bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educational Attainment in Patients With Congenital Heart Disease: a Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Cocomello Lucia , Dimagli Arnaldo , Biglino Giovanni , Cornish Rosie , Caputo Massimo , Lawlor Deborah
Published: July 2021

Background: To determine the association between having a CHD compared with not, on educational attainment in adults. A systematic review and meta-analysisMethod: Studies were eligible if they reported the rate/odds/proportion of level of educational attainment in adults by history of CHD. Result: Out of 1537 articles screened, we identified 11 (N = 104585 participants, 10487 with CHD), 10(N = 167470 participants, 11820 with CHD), and 8 (N = 150813 participants, 9817 with CHD) studies reporting information on university education, secondary education, and vocational training, respectively in both CHD and non-CHD participants. Compared to their non-CHD peers, CHD patients were more likely not to obtain a university degree (OR=1.38, 95% CI [1.16, 1.65]), complete secondary education (OR=1.33, 95 % CI [1.09, 1.61]) or vocational training (OR= 1.11, 95%CI [0.98, 1.26]). For all three outcomes there was evidence of between study heterogeneity, with geographical area contributing to this heterogeneity. Conclusion: This systematic review identified all available published data on educational attainment in CHD patients. Despite broad inclusion criteria we identified relatively few studies that included a comparison group from the same population, and amongst those that did, few adjusted for key confounders. Pooled analyses suggest evidence of lower levels of educational attainment in patients with CHD when compared to non-CHD peers. The extent to which this may be explained by confounding factors, such as parental education, or mediated by treatments is not possible to discern from the current research literature.
Hyperconnectivity Between The Posterior Cingulate and Middle Frontal and Temporal Gyrus in Depression: Based On Functional Connectivity Meta-Analyses.
Authors: Zhu Ziqing , Wang You , Lau Way , Wei Xinhua , Liu Yingjun , Huang Ruiwang , Zhang Ruibin
Published: July 2021

BackgroundDisrupted whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) of the posterior cingulate (PCC) has been highlighted to associate with cognitive and affective dysfunction in major depressive disorder (MDD). However, prior findings showed certain inconsistency about the RSFC of the PCC in MDD. This study aims to investigate the aberrant RSFC of the PCC in MDD using anisotropic effect-size version of seed-based d mapping (AES-SDM). MethodsWeb of Science and PubMed were searched for studies investigating PCC-based RSFC in MDD. A total of 17 studies, involving 804 patients and 724 healthy controls (HCs), fit our selection criteria. Additionally, to seek for the link between functional and structural differences, we did a meta-analysis on the studies in conjunction with Voxel-based morphology (VBM) analysis. ResultsThe PCC showed higher RSFC with the left middle temporal gyrus (MTG) and the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG), and lower RSFC with the left superior frontal gyrus (SFG) and the left precuneus in patients with MDD than HCs. Notably, the left MTG and the left MFG were the overlapped regions of aberrant VBM and RSFC results.ConclusionsOur results indicated that the aberrant RSFC between the PCC and brain regions sub-serving cognitive control and emotional regulation in patients with MDD. And such functional alterations may have structural basis. These findings may underlie the mechanisms of deficits in cognitive control and emotional regulation of MDD.
Does Mobile Social Media Undermine Our Romantic Relationships? The Influence of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) On Young People’ Romantic Relationship
Authors: Wang Lin , Qiu Junping , Yan Su , Liu Wei
Published: July 2021

The widespread use of social media has a trans-formative effect on people’s work and lives. With the increasing information explosion and more cases of social media addiction, users have been always worried that they have missed some information. FoMO (Fear of Missing Out) of mobile users emerges. FoMO has affected users’ interpersonal relationship and behavior in the offline environment, especially for post-90s generation users (people born in the 1990’s). This paper explores the impact of FoMO of post-90s generation mobile users on romantic relationship in the context of social media. The sample size is 274 subjects. By using questionnaire survey and regression analysis, the impacts of FoMO on romantic relationship were analyzed from the perspectives of three dimensions of FoMO: cognitive, emotional and behavioral manifestations. Results show that behavioral manifestation of FoMO has a significant negative effect on romantic relationships, while emotional and cognitive manifestations of FoMO have no significant effects on romantic relationships. This paper enriches the research on the effects of psychology and information behavior of mobile social media users on their interpersonal relationship.
Photodynamic and Anti- VEGF Therapy for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy - ‘Real World’ Outcomes in a Caucasian Population.
Authors: Gilmour Kenneth M. , Young David , Jamison Aaron , Precup Monica , Gilmour David F.
Published: July 2021

BackgroundThe prevalence of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is significantly higher amongst Asian populations compared to Caucasian, and evidence regarding the clinical outcomes of Caucasian patients is limited. This retrospective study sought to investigate real-world clinical outcomes of Caucasian PCV patients treated with polypoidal verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) in combination with anti-VEGF therapy up to 36 months post treatment. MethodsConsecutive PCV patients who received PDT between 2011 and 2017 were included. Mean change in visual acuity (VA) measured by ETDRS letter score and mean change in central subfield thickness (CST) were the main outcome measures. Data was collected at baseline, 3, 12, 24 and 36 months. Regression analyses were carried out on pre-treatment clinical features to determine if there were any factors associated with a good visual outcome (better than or equal to 70 ETDRS letters at 12 months). ResultsSeventy six patients (96% Caucasian) were included in the analysis. Mean change in VA was -1, -4, and 0 ETDRS letters at 12, 24, and 36 months respectively. CST was reduced by a mean of -51, -54, and -55 microns at 12, 24, and 36 months. Better pre-treatment VA was the only pre-treatment clinical feature associated with a good visual outcome at 12 months (OR 1.16, p<0.001).ConclusionsPDT in combination with anti-VEGF therapy maintains VA and may reduce anti-VEGF therapy burden in Caucasian patients with PCV. Better pre-treatment VA is associated with a good visual outcome.
A Pan-Cancer Analysis Revealing the Role 2 of TIGIT in Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Wen Jie , Mao Xueyi , Cheng Quan , Liu Zhixiong , Liu Fangkun
Published: July 2021

T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT), an immune checkpoint, plays a pivotal role in immune suppression. However its role in tumor immunity and correlation with the genetic and epigenetic alterations remains unknown.Here, we comprehensively analyzed the expression patterns of the TIGIT and its value of prognostic prediction among 33 types of cancers based on the data collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Genotype-Tissue Expression projects (GTEx). Furthermore, the correlations of TIGIT with tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs), immune checkpoint genes, the degree of Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumor tissues using the Expression data (ESTIMATE), tumor mutation burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), mismatch repair (MMR) genes, and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) were also explored. Gene functional enrichment was conducted by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Our results showed that the expression of TIGIT was upregulated in most of the cancer types. Cox regression model showed that high expression of TIGIT in tumor samples correlates with poor prognosis in KIRC, KIRP, LGG, UVM, and with favorable prognosis in BRCA, CECS , HNSC, SKCM. TIGIT expression significantly correlated with TIICs and the degree of ESTIMATE in KIRC, KIRP and UVM. TIGIT expression also correlated with CTLA4, PDCD1 (PD-1), CD274 (PD-L1), ICOS in most of the cancer types. Furthermore, the expression of TIGIT was correlated with TMB, MSI, MMR genes and DNMTs in different types of cancers. GSEA analysis showed that the expression of TIGIT was related to cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, allograft rejection, oxidative phosphorylation.These findings suggested that TIGIT could serve as a potential biomarker for prognosis and a novel target for immunotherapies in cancers.
BlueFMCW: Random Frequency Hopping Radar for Mitigation of Interference and Spoofing
Authors: Moon Thomas , Park Jounsup , Kim Seungmo
Published: July 2021

Radars form a central piece in a variety of emerging applications requiring higher degrees of localization. However, two problems are anticipated as more radars are deployed: viz., (i) inter-radar interference and (ii) security attacks. While many prior proposals have addressed the problems, no work in the radar literature addressed them simultaneously. In this context, we introduce a novel frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) radar scheme (namely, BlueFMCW) that aims to alleviate the damage from interference and active attacks (e.g., spoofing). The technique designs that the waveform randomly hops across multiple frequencies to dilute the damage at a certain frequency. Moreover, we propose a phase alignment algorithm to remove the phase discontinuity while combining the beat signals from the randomly-hopped chirps. The simulation results show that the proposed technique can efficiently mitigate the interference and spoofing signals in various scenarios without costing its resolution.
A method to construct the dynamic landscape of a bio-membrane with experiment and simulation
Authors: Smith Albert , Vogel Alexander , Engberg Oskar , Hildebrand Peter , Huster Daniel
Published: July 2021

Biomolecular function is based on a complex hierarchy of molecular motions. While biophysical methods can reveal details of specific motions, a concept for the comprehensive description of molecular dynamics over a wide range of correlation times has been unattainable. Here, we report a novel approach to construct the dynamic landscape of biomolecules, which describes the aggregate influence of multiple motions acting on various timescales and on multiple positions in the molecule. To this end, we use NMR relaxation and molecular dynamics simulation data for the characterization of lipid membranes, the most important biological interface. We develop a dynamics detector method that yields site-specific amplitudes, separated both by type and timescale of motion. This separation allows the detailed description of the dynamic landscape, which reveals vast differences in motion depending on molecular position. More generally, the method is applicable to a broad range of molecular systems, and can be adapted to other timescale-sensitive techniques.
Study On Grinding Force of High Volume Fraction SiCp/Al2024 Composites
Authors: GUO Guangyan , Gao Qi , Wang Quanzhao , Pan Shichao
Published: July 2021

In view of the difficult machining characteristics of high volume fraction SiCp/Al composites, this paper researches the grinding force variation of grinding SiCp/Al composites with grinding rod. A diamond grinding rod with a diameter of 3mm is used to grind the SiCp/Al2024 composite with 60% volume fraction by the method of end face grinding. By measuring the tangential grinding forces and normal grinding forces after grinding, the theoretical model of unit grinding force is deduced. According to the experimental parameters of spindle speed, feed rate and grinding depth, this paper derives the theoretical model of grinding force based on SiCp/Al2024 composites. And it clarifies the influence mechanism of grinding depth and feed rate on grinding force and explores the variation of grinding parameters on grinding force under dry grinding condition. Then the variation rule of grinding component force ratio is obtaines. The related research and theoretical model have theoretical guiding significance for exploring the grinding properties of hard-to-machine materials.
Synchronous Double Primary Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Qu Meng-Meng , Zhu Yuan-Hui , Li Yi-Xiang , Li Zhi-fan , Li Jin-Kui , Lei Jun-Qiang
Published: July 2021

Background: Synchronous double primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) (sdpHCC-ICC) located separately within a single liver is extremely rare. The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical, imaging, pathological characteristics and prognosis of patients with sdpHCC-ICC, in order to enhance our understanding of the disease and improve diagnostic and therapeutic effect.Case presentation: A 49-year-old female patient with obvious liver cirrhosis, who carried hepatitis B virus, was admitted to our hospital for physical examination. The level of α-fetoprotein (AFP) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) was found to be elevated. Abdominal ultrasonography and enhanced computed tomography revealed two solid masses located in segments (S) 4 and 6 of the liver, with malignant behaviors. The preoperation diagnosis was multiple primary hepatocellular carcinomas. We performed hepatic resection of both segments. The resected specimens revealed that the tumors in segments 4 and 6 were well-defined lesions of 5.0 cm and 2.5cm, respectively. Histopathological examination confirmed that the tumor of the 4th segment to be moderately and poorly differentiated ICC, and that the tumor of the 6th segment to be poorly differentiated HCC. Immunohistochemically, the ICC in S4 was positive for CK19 and negative for Heppar-1, while the HCC in S6 was positive for Heppar-1 and negative for CK19. Unfortunately，metastasis and recurrence of multiple organs and lymph nodes were observed only 3 months later.Conclusions: The clinical characteristics of sdpHCC-ICC are usually atypical. It is of difficulty to make an accurate preoperative diagnosis. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection were both the independent risk factor to the development of sdpHCC-ICC. In patients with chronic liver disease, careful observation with imaging examination should be necessary. Tumor markers may be valuable to the diagnosis of it. The definite diagnosis depends on pathological examination. Hepatic resection may be the preferred and most effective treatment. The prognosis of synchronous occurrence of double hepatic cancers was poorer than for either HCC or ICC, and the origin of it needs further study.
Significant Interaction of MTHFR C677T, A1298C and MTRR A66G Polymorphisms on the Risk of Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Sun Shuang , Liu Ying , guo Xuehua , Zhao Xun
Published: July 2021

Background: To explore the relationship between maternal methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene C677T and A1298C, Methionine Synthase Reductase (MTRR) gene A66G and the recurrence of low birth weight(LBW) in offspring. Methods: Allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (ASPCR) assay combined with TaqMan probe technique were used to detect the mother’s MTHFR and MTRR genotypes respectively. And unconditional logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations of MTHFR and MTRR polymorphisms, and gene-gene interaction with low birth weight.Results: MTHFR 677TT and 1298CC were independently associated with a higher risk of LBW (OR:2.22, 95%CI:1.14-4.34 and OR:2.82, 95% CI:1.15-6.87,respectively). The MTRR A66G polymorphism was associated with an significant association of LBW when combined with the MTHFR 677TT genotype, although there was no association found between LBW and MTRR A66G alone.Moreover, two or more risk genotypes carriers showed higher odds of LBW than null risk genotype one.Conclusion: Maternal MTHFR gene 677TT, 1298CC can increase the risk of LBW in the offspring.The MTRR A66G polymorphism was not associated with LBW alone. But it may exacerbate the effect of the MTHFR C677T variant.
Molecular Signatures Associated With the Development of Pulmonary Toxicities in Mesothelioma Patients Treated With Radical Hemithoracic Radiation Therapy
Authors: Crovella Sergio , Relevant Alberto , Muraro Elena , Moura Ronald , Brandão Lucas , Trovò Marco , Steffan Agostino , Zacchi Paola , Zabucchi Giuliano , Minatel Emilio , Borelli Violetta
Published: July 2021

Background. Radical Hemithoracic Radiotherapy (RHR), after lung-sparing surgery, has recently become a concrete therapeutic option for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), an asbestos-related, highly aggressive tumor with increasing incidence and poor prognosis. Although the toxicity associated to this treatment has been reduced, it is still not negligible and must be considered when treating patients. Genetic factors appear to play a role determining radiotherapy toxicity. The aim of this study is the identification of genetic markers able to predict the relative susceptibility for newly diagnosed MPM patients to develop lung adverse effects if they were to be treated with RHR. Methods. The study included individuals with MPM, treated with lung-sparing surgery and neoadjuvant chemotherapy, followed by RHR with curative intent, and followed up prospectively for development of pulmonary toxicity. Due to the impact of grade 3 pulmonary toxicities on the quality of life, for further genetic analyses patients were divided into a none or tolerable pulmonary toxicity group (Grade ≤2) and a severe pulmonary toxicity group (Grade=3). Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed to identify genetic variants in biological pathways associated to pulmonary toxicity after radiotherapy.Results. We identified crucial pathways driving the lung response to ionizing radiations in patients affected by mesothelioma: by affecting both the fibrinolytic activity and RNA editing pathways, irradiation could be responsible of the severe toxicity events reported by some patients, who present specific mutations in genes involved in these pathways. Conclusions. Our preliminary results could pave the way for the definition of a panel of predictive genomic variants, capable of supporting the management of MPM patients. By allowing for early identification of patients at high risk for treatment-dependent pulmonary toxicity, this predictive tool could play a major role in the design of new therapeutic combinations.
Treatment of Ocular Tumors Through a Novel Applicator on a Conventional Proton Pencil Beam Scanning Beamline
Authors: Regmi Rajesh , Maes Dominic , Nevitt Alexander , Toltz Allison , Leuro Erick , Chen Jonathan , Halasz Lia , Rengan Ramesh , Bloch Charles , Saini Jatinder
Published: July 2021

Treatment of ocular tumors on dedicated scattering-based proton therapy systems is standard afforded due to sharp lateral and distal penumbras. However, most newer proton therapy centers provide pencil beam scanning treatments. In this paper, we present a pencil beam scanning (PBS)-based ocular treatment solution. The design, commissioning, and validation of an applicator mount for a conventional PBS snout to allow for ocular treatments are given. In contrast to scattering techniques, PBS-based ocular therapy allows for inverse planning, providing planners with additional flexibility to shape the radiation field, potentially sparing healthy tissues. PBS enables the use of commercial Monte Carlo algorithms resulting in accurate dose calculations in the presence of heterogeneities and fiducials. The validation consisted of small field dosimetry measurements of point doses, depth doses, and lateral profiles relevant to ocular therapy. A comparison of beam properties achieved through the applicator against published literature is presented. We successfully showed the feasibility of PBS-based ocular treatments.
Systemic Sarcoidosis: Sociodemographic and Genetic Characteristics in a Tunisian Population
Authors: Douma Bissene , Derbali Hajer , Mrissa linda , Ali Emna Ben Haj , Sayahi Sameh , Mrissa Nejiba Fekih , Mrissa Ridha
Published: July 2021

Sarcoidosis is a multi-systemic granulomatosis of unknown cause, characterized by a clinical polymorphism. It results from interplay of environmental and genetic factors. The aim of our study was to describe sociodemographic and genetic characteristics in Tunisian patients with sarcoidosis. We conducted a retrorospective study of patients with sarcoidosis followed in the internal medicine and neurology departments at the Military Hospital of Tunis. We collected epidemiological characteristics. Genetic study concerned only patients who accepted to participate. DNA extraction was performed from whole blood. HLA class II typing and gene mutation testing of the ACE gene were also performed. Our study concerned 50 patients. The mediastino-pulmonary involvement was the most frequent (72.3%), followed by neurological involvement (58.5%), cutaneous involvement (50.8%) and ophthalmological involvement (40%). Genetic analysis showed a high frequency of the HLA DRB1 * 1501 allele (38%), DD genotype (30%) and D allele (54%) of the ACE gene. Treatment with corticosteroids was most often used 73.85%. The evolution was favorable in 13 cases (26.15%), and stable in 63% of cases. In conclusion, sociodemographic and genetic characteristic are variable from one ethnic to another. Advances in genotyping and statistical analysis are helping to elucidate the genetics of sarcoidosis.
Circulating Glycan Monosaccharide Composite Detects Endometrial Cancer at Early Stages
Authors: zeng pengjiao , Chen Yulong , Hao Cui , Zeng Xuan , Gao Yanyun , Yang Dandan , Shan Ming , Dou Huaiqian , Zhang Meng , Zhang Yiran , He Yanli , Li Xiulian , Li Juan , Wang Liming , Yao Qin , Zhang Lijuan
Published: July 2021

Background

Early diagnosis is the key to cure endometrial cancer. However, current cancer biomarkers, such as CA125, have low specificity and sensitivity for endometrial cancer diagnosis even at late stages. Glycans, containing both genetic and environmental information, are the most promising biomolecules to serve as early diagnostic biomarkers. To simplifying the structural information residing in the circulating glycans, the monosaccharide composite was investigated as a biomarker in the current study.
Methods

Acid hydrolysis, pre-column derivation, and HPLC analysis were used to quantify monosaccharide compositions of serum glycans for pathological confirmed endometrial cancer patients (n = 30), uterine fibroid patients (n = 35), and the healthy controls (n = 30). The levels of CA125 were also measured for all the serum samples from the patients and healthy controls. Receiver operating characteristic and logistic regression were used to assess the reliability of the biomarker.
Results

Galactosamine, glucosamine, and galactose concentrations were significantly increased (P < 0.05), whereas mannose and fucose concentrations were decreased (for fucose, P < 0.05) in hydrolyzed serum glycans of endometrial cancer patients compared to the healthy control. The area under curve (AUC), 95% confidence interval, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 0.96, 0.92-1.00, 86.7%, 93.3%, and 90.0% for monosaccharide composite and 0.58, 0.43–0.73, 40.0%, 83.3%, and 61.7% for CA125, respectively. Furthermore, the monosaccharide composite detected 28 while CA125 only detected 5 out of the 30 patients with pathologically confirmed endometrial cancer.
Conclusions

The serum monosaccharide composition analysis was a simple and quantitative assay for biomarker development. The monosaccharide composite of hydrolyzed serum glycans was an excellent biomarker for endometrial cancer early detection. The abnormal environmental information present in the circulating glycans explained its ability to detect cancers at early stages.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Dysregulates the Expression of Long Noncoding RNAs in Placentas
Authors: Li Hui-hui , Sai Lin-tao , Liu Yuan , Freel Colman I. , Wang Kai , Zhou Chi , Zheng Jing , Shu Qiang , Zhao Ying-jie
Published: July 2021

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can cause placental dysfunctions, which may result in pregnancy complications. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are actively involved in the regulation of immune responses during pregnancy. The present study aimed to determine the lncRNA expression profiles in placentas from women with SLE to gain new insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms in SLE pregnancies.Methods: RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis was performed to identify SLE-dysregulated lncRNAs and mRNAs in placentas from women with SLE and normal full-term (NT) pregnancies. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to predict biological functions of these SLE-dysregulated lncRNAs and mRNAs. Correlation relationships between these dysregulated lncRNAs and SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) scores were also assessed. Results: RNA-seq analysis identified 81 dysregulated lncRNAs in SLE placentas, including 53 that were up-regulated and 28 down-regulated. Additional 221 SLE-dysregulated mRNAs were also discovered, including 209 up-regulated and 12 down-regulated. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that SLE-dysregulated genes were associated with biological functions and gene networks, such as type I interferon signaling pathway, response to hypoxia, regulation of MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)/JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase) cascade, response to steroid hormone, heparin binding, and insulin-like growth factor binding. Correlation analysis showed that lncRNA NONHSAT246155.1 was positively correlated (r = 0.333, P = 0.037) with SLEDAI score.Conclusions: This is the first report of the lncRNA profiles in placentas from SLE pregnancies. These results suggest that the aberrant expression and the potential regulatory function of lncRNAs in placentas may play comprehensive roles in the pathogenesis of SLE pregnancies. These lncRNAs, including NONHSAT246155.1 may potentially serve as novel therapeutic targets for SLE during pregnancy.
Wastewater-based Epidemiology – Possible Approach for the Prevalence Prediction of SARS-CoV-2 in the Population
Authors: Krivonakova Nada , Soltysova Andrea , Tamas Michal , Takac Zdenko , Krahulec Ján , Ficek Andrej , Gal Miroslav , Gall Marian , Feher Miroslav , Krivjanska Anna , Horakova Ivana , Belisova Noemi , Bimova Paula , Skulcova Andrea , Mackulak Tomas
Published: July 2021

COVID-19 pandemic caused by β-coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 emerges to intensive scientific research and monitoring of wastewaters because of their possible important role in identifying and early warning of a spread of the virus in the community. In our study, we investigated the prevalence of the COVID-19 disease in the population of the capital city of Slovakia, Bratislava, based on wastewater monitoring from September 2020 until March 2021. Samples were analyzed from two major wastewater treatment plants of the city with reaching nearly 0.6 million monitored inhabitants. Obtained results from the wastewater analysis suggest significant statistical dependence. High correlations between the number of viral particles in wastewater and the number of reported positive nasopharyngeal RT-qPCR tests of infected individuals with a time lag of 2 weeks / 12 days (R2 = 83.78% / R2 = 52.65%) as well as with a reported number of death cases with a time lag of 4 weeks / 27 days (R2 = 83.21% / R2 = 61.89%) was observed. The obtained results and subsequent mathematical modeling will serve in the future as an early warning system for the occurrence of a local site of infection and, at the same time, predict the load on the health system up to two weeks in advance.
Architecture Engineering of One Body Nanostructured Catalyst: Layer-By-Layer Adornment of Multiple Nanocatalysts On Silica Nanorod Arrays For Hydrogenation of Nitroarenes
Authors: Hong Kootak , Suh Jun Min , Lee Tae Hyung , Ramakrishna Seeram , Varma Rajender S. , Jang Ho Won , Shokouhimehr Mohammadreza
Published: July 2021

Direct consideration for both, the catalytically active species and the host materials provides highly efficient strategies for the architecture design of nanostructured catalysts. The conventional wet chemical methods have limitations in achieving such unique layer-by-layer design possessing one body framework with many catalyst parts. Herein, an innovative physical method is presented that allows the well-regulated architecture design for an array of functional nanocatalysts as exemplified by layer-by-layer adornment of Pd nanoparticles (NPs) on the highly arrayed silica nanorods. This spatially confined catalyst exhibits excellent efficiency for the hydrogenation of nitroarenes and widely deployed Suzuki cross-coupling reactions; their facile separation from the reaction mixtures is easily accomplished due to the monolithic structure. The generality of this method for the introduction of other metal source has also been demonstrated with Au NPs. This pioneering effort highlights the feasibility of physically controlled architecture design of nanostructured catalysts which may stimulate further studies in the general domain of the heterogeneous catalytic transformations.
Characteristics, Mortality and Cardiovascular Events in Chronic Kidney Disease According To Previous Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and/or Hypertension. A Population-Based Epidemiological Study (KIDNEES)
Authors: Salvador-González Betlem , Cunillera-Puértolas Oriol , Vizcaya David , Cerain-Herrero M Jesus , Gil-Terrón Neus , Cobo-Guerrero Sílvia
Published: July 2021

Introduction and objectives.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) entails a considerable burden of adverse outcomes. Identifying the cause is recommended but data on its prognostic value are scarce. We aimed to estimate how the clinical, cardiovascular events (CVE) and all-cause mortality (ACM) of CKD patients differs according to previous Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (2TD) and/or Hypertension (HTN).
Methods.

We conducted a retrospective cohort study based on electronic health records of subjects aged 18–90 years old, with incident CKD between 1st January 2007 and 31st December 2017. The association between CKD groups according to previous T2D and/or HTN, and risk of ACM and CVE at follow-up were determined with Cox and Fine-Gray regressions, respectively.
Results.

398,477 subjects were included. Median age was 74years, 55.2% were women. Individuals were distributed to HTN-CKD (51.9%), T2D-CKD (3.87%), HTN/T2D-CKD (31.4%) and unspecified-CKD (12.9%). In the multivariate analysis, with the T2D-CKD group as reference, the ACM Hazard Ratio (HR) was 0.645 (95%CI 0.624–0.667) in HTN-CKD, 0.704 (95%CI 0.682–0.728) in HTN/T2D-CKD and 0.875 (95%CI 0.844–0.908) in Unspecified-CKD group. The respective sub distribution HRs for CVE were 1.006 (CI95% 0.946–1.069), 1.238 (CI95% 1.164–1.316) and 0.722 (CI95% 0.665–0.785).
Conclusion.

In individuals with CKD, the risk of ACM and CVE differed according to previous HTN or/and T2D. These characteristics can help identifying individuals at higher risk of adverse outcomes, and improving the management of CKD patients in primary care.
First Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Pseudorabies Virus Detected in Turkey
Authors: Aytoğu Gizem , Toker Eda B. , Yavas Ozkan , Kadiroglu Berfin , Ates Ozer , Ozyigit Musa Ozgur , Yesilbag Kadir
Published: July 2021

Pigs are the main host species for the pseudorabies virus, while it causes fatal encephalitis in many species including human being. The objective of this article is to report the first clinical case of pseudorabies as well as isolation and molecular characterization of the virus from a hunting dog in Bursa province, Turkey. The dog showing clinical signs including pruritus and neurological signs as stumbling and inability to stand up compatible with pseudorabies. The virus isolate was obtained from supernatant of fresh tissue samples from cerebellum, cornu ammonis, spleen, salivary gland, and conjunctival swab, as well as serum, and buffy coat samples. The glycoprotein C region is targeted for viral DNA amplification. Pseudorabies virus genome was detected both in fresh tissues and supernatants of 3rd passage on Vero cells. Number of PCR positive samples were dramatically increased after having cell culture inoculations. Genome sequencing revealed that the strain (Bursa-10303) isolated in Turkey where a non-endemic area is for the virus is dropped into clade A. This study confirms the presence of psedorabies infection in the wild life reservoirs in Turkey. Future studies may clarify the importance of the infection for Turkey where there is no common pig production.
A Novel De Novo TUBB3 Variant Causing Developmental Delay, Epilepsy and Mild Ophthalmological Symptoms in a Chinese Child.
Authors: Xue Jiao , Song Zhenfeng , Ma Shuyin , Yi Zhi , Yang Chengqing , Li Fei , Liu Kaixuan , Zhang Ying
Published: July 2021

Heterozygous missense mutations in TUBB3 have been implicated in various neurological disorders encompassing either isolated congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles type 3 (CFEOM3) or complex cortical dysplasia with other brain malformations 1 (CDCBM1). The description of seizures in patients with TUBB3 mutations is rare. Here, we reported a patient who had febrile seizures before and focal seizure this time, which was diagnosed as epilepsy in combination with an abnormal EEG. MRI showed hypoplastic corpus callosum. Mutation analysis showed a novel de novo heterozygous variant of TUBB3 gene (NM_006086), c.763G>A (p.V255I). He had global developmental delay, photophobia and elliptic pupil, but lacking extraocular muscles involvement and malformations of cortical development, which might be a less severe phenotype of TUBB3 mutations. This was the first report of elliptic pupil in patients with TUBB3 mutations and expanded the spectrum of TUBB3 phenotypes. It indicated that the phenotypic range of TUBB3 mutations might be more continuous than discrete, with a severity ranging from mild to severe. Further studies are needed to elucidate the complete spectrum of TUBB3-related phenotypes.
Dissection of Closely Linked QTLs Controlling Grain Size in Rice
Authors: Xue Pao , Chen Yu-yu , Wen Xiao-xia , Wang Bei-fang , Yang Qin-qin , Gong Ke , Kang Yi-wei , Sun Lian-ping , Yu Ping , Cao Li-yong , Zhang Ying-xin , Zhan Xiao-deng , Cheng Shi-hua
Published: July 2021

Grain size is a key constituent of grain weight and appearance in rice. However, insufficient attention has been paid to the small-effect QTLs on grain size. In the present study, residual heterozygous populations were developed for mapping two genetically linked small-effect QTLs for grain size. After genotyping and phenotyping of five successive generations, qGS7.1 was dissected into three QTLs and two were selected for further analysis. qTGW7.2a was finally mapped into a 21.10-kb interval containing four annotated candidate genes. Transcript levels assay showed that the expression of candidates LOC_Os07g39490 and LOC_Os07g39500 were significantly reduced in the NIL- qTGW7.2a BG1 . Cytological observation indicated that qTGW7.2a regulated grain width through controlling cell expansion. Use the same strategy, qTGW7.2b was fine mapped into a 52.71-kb interval, showing a significant effect on grain length and width with opposite allelic directions but little on grain weight. Our study provides new genetic resources for yield improvement and fine-tunes of grain size in rice.
f-Slip: An Efficient Privacy-Preserving Data Publishing Framework for 1: M Microdata with Multiple Sensitive Attributes.
Authors: J Jayapradha , M Prakash
Published: July 2021

Privacy of the individuals plays a vital role when a dataset is disclosed in public. Privacy-preserving data publishing is a process of releasing the anonymized dataset for various purposes of analysis and research. The data to be published contain several sensitive attributes such as diseases, salary, symptoms, etc. Earlier, researchers have dealt with datasets considering it would contain only one record for an individual [1:1 dataset], which is uncompromising in various applications. Later, many researchers concentrate on the dataset, where an individual has multiple records [1:M dataset]. In the paper, a model f-slip was proposed that can address the various attacks such as Background Knowledge (bk) attack, Multiple Sensitive attribute correlation attack (MSAcorr), Quasi-identifier correlation attack(QIcorr), Non-membership correlation attack(NMcorr) and Membership correlation attack(Mcorr) in 1:M dataset and the solutions for the attacks. In f -slip, the anatomization was performed to divide the table into two subtables consisting of i) quasi-identifier and ii) sensitive attributes. The correlation of sensitive attributes is computed to anonymize the sensitive attributes without breaking the linking relationship. Further, the quasi-identifier table was divided and k-anonymity was implemented on it. An efficient anonymization technique, frequency-slicing (f-slicing), was also developed to anonymize the sensitive attributes. The f -slip model is consistent as the number of records increases. Extensive experiments were performed on a real-world dataset Informs and proved that the f -slip model outstrips the state-of-the-art techniques in terms of utility loss, efficiency and also acquires an optimal balance between privacy and utility.
Coronally Advanced Flap With Connective Tissue Graft For Treating Orthodontic-Associated Miller Class III Gingival Recession of The Lower Incisors: A One-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Weinberg Evgeny , Kolerman Roni , Cohen Omer , Sebaoun Alon , Slutzkey Gil
Published: July 2021

Aims
To assess the clinical outcome (after one year) of coronally advanced flap combined with connective tissue graft for the treatment of orthodontic-associated Miller Class III gingival recession of the lower incisors.
Materials and methods
This study included 15 patients who had undergone orthodontic treatment prior to development of recession. Measurements of recession depth, recession width, probing depth, and width of keratinized tissue were performed clinically immediately before surgery and after one year. In addition, digital measurements of recession depth, recession width, and root coverage esthetic score were performed on intraoral photographs.
Results
Significant reduction was observed for probing depth, recession depth, and recession width at one year, with significant increase in width of keratinized tissue. Mean root coverage was 83 ± 24% for recession depth, while complete root coverage was achieved in 10 out of 21 recessions (48%). The average root coverage esthetic score at 12 months was 7.1 ± 2.6. An interaction was found between initial recession depth and mean root coverage.
Conclusions
Within the limitations of this study, our results confirm that combination of coronally advanced flap and connective tissue graft is effective in reducing post-orthodontic Miller Class III recessions of the mandibular incisors with a concomitant increase in width of keratinized tissue.
Clinical Relevance
These findings suggest that combination of coronally advanced flap with connective tissue graft may significantly improve post-orthodontic Miller Class III recessions of the mandibular incisors, even when the correction of the tooth malposition is unattainable.
Salivary Gland Ultrasonography In Primary Sjögren's Syndrome From Diagnosis To Clinical Stratification: A Multicentre Study
Authors: Zhang Xia , Feng Ruiling , Zhao Jinxia , Wang Yu , He Juan , Liu Li , Cheng Yongjing , Yao Haihong , Tang Sumei , Chen Jiali , Zhang Shanshan , Zhang Zhiyi , Wang Qingwen , He Jing , Li Zhanguo
Published: July 2021

Background: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of major salivary gland ultrasonography (SGUS) in primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) using the novel Outcome Measures in Rheumatology Clinical Trials (OMERACT) scoring system in a large-scale multicentre study.Methods: SGUS was conducted for 246 pSS patients, 140 control subjects with conditions other than SS and 27 healthy control subjects. The echostructure features from the parotid and submandibular glands on both sides were graded using the novel OMERACT scoring system. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to describe the diagnostic accuracy of the scoring system for pSS. The associations between the SGUS and disease characteristics were analysed to evaluate the clinical value of SGUS for pSS.Results: The US scores in the pSS group were significantly higher than those in the non-pSS group (P < 0.001). The level of diagnostic accuracy was comparable with the scores of all four glands (AUC=0.908) when only the parotid and submandibular glands on either side were scored (AUC=0.910, 0.904, respectively). The optimal cut-off value for the parotid and submandibular glands was 4, with maximal sensitivity (75.6% and 77.2%, respectively) and specificity (91.6% and 92.2%, respectively). The pSS patients with positive SGUS results presented a longer disease duration, parotid enlargement, dental loss and higher levels of serological markers, such as anti-SSA, anti-SSB, positive RF, IgG and γ-globulin%. Conclusions: SGUS with the OMERACT scoring system yields high sensitivity and specificity, demonstrating high diagnostic feasibility for pSS. The SGUS may have implications for deciding disease severity and treatment efficacy.
Condition-based Maintenance Optimization for Gamma Deteriorating Systems under Performance-Based Contracting
Authors: Zhu Xi , Wen Liang , Li Juan , Song Mingchang , Hu Qiwei
Published: July 2021

As a new form of support contract, performance-based contracting (PBC) has been extensively adopted in industry and manufacturing recent years. However, maintenance optimization problems under PBC have not received enough attention. In order to further expand the application of PBC in the field of maintenance optimization, we investigate the condition-based maintenance (CBM) optimization for gamma deteriorating systems under PBC. Considering the repairable single-component system subject to the gamma degradation process, this paper proposes a CBM optimization model with an objective of maximizing the profit and improving system performance at a lower cost under PBC. In the proposed CBM model, first inspection interval is considered to reduce the inspection frequency and the cost. Then, a particle swarm algorithm (PSO) and related solution procedure are presented in order to solve the multiple decision variables in our proposed model. Finally, a numerical example is provided to illustrate the applicability and effectiveness of our proposed model. Through comparing the proposed policy with the conventional one, the superiority of our proposed policy is proved, which can bring more profits to providers and improve performance. Sensitivity analysis is conducted to investigate the effect of corrective maintenance cost and time required for corrective maintenance to optimization policy. Comparative study is given to illustrate the necessity of distinguishing first inspection interval and repeat inspection interval.
Calcaneal Fracture Maps And Their Determinants
Authors: YU Qingwen , LI Zhirui , LI Jiantao , YU Qinghua , ZHANG Licheng , LIU Daohong , ZHANG Mingzhu , TANG Peifu
Published: July 2021

Background: Calcaneal fractures are associated with numerous complications and a poor prognosis with significant long-term quality-of-life issues, regardless of treatment. Therefore, in-depth research into the underlying mechanism of calcaneal fracture is still of great interest, with the goal of improving treatment for patients suffering from this condition. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the distribution of calcaneal fracture lines and their determinants, especially those related to the internal structure of the calcaneus. This goal was achieved by fracture maps created by copying and stacking fracture lines as viewed from six surfaces of the calcaneus.Methods: A total of 210 consecutive patients with 226 calcaneal fractures were retrospectively analyzed. Fracture lines were copied from a reduced 3D calcaneal fracture model and stacked on calcaneal templates to generate fracture maps. The stacked images of six calcaneus surfaces were also converted into spectrograms with MATLAB to highlight the fracture frequency at specific locations.Results: There were four concentrated bands of fracture lines and two fracture hot spots on the superior surface. Three dense bands of fractures were observed on the medial surface, and four fracture bands were observed lateral to the calcaneus. Vertical fracture lines dominated the anterior calcaneal fracture map. On the posterior surface, the fracture lines appeared to be centered superiorly. All fracture locations coincided with the interfaces between the trabecular groups.Conclusions: The fracture maps showed fracture patterns and recurrent fracture zones on all calcaneal surfaces. The shape of the talus and calcaneus and the architecture within the calcaneus, especially the arrangement of the trabeculae, are essential factors for calcaneal fractures.
Alpha-synuclein levels modulate seeding and aggregation in cultured cells
Authors: Vasili Eftychia , Dominguez-Meijide Antonio , Flores-León Manuel , Al-Azzani Mohammed , Kanellidi Angeliki , Melki Ronald , Stefanis Leonidas , Outeiro Tiago Fleming
Published: July 2021

Background

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of misfolded alpha-synuclein in intraneuronal inclusions known as Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites. Multiple studies strongly implicate the levels of alpha-synuclein as a major risk factor for the onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease. alpha-Synuclein pathology spreads progressively throughout interconnected brain regions but the precise molecular mechanisms underlying alpha-synuclein spreading and accumulation remain obscure.
Methods

Here, using stable cell lines expressing alpha-synuclein, we examined the correlation between endogenous alpha-synuclein levels and the seeding propensity by exogenous alpha-synuclein pre-formed fibrils. We applied biochemical approaches and imaging methods in stable cell lines expressing alpha-synuclein and in primary neurons to determine the impact of alpha-synuclein expression levels on seeding and aggregation.
Results

Our results indicate that alpha-synuclein levels define the pattern and severity of aggregation and the extent of p-alpha-synuclein deposition, likely explaining the selective vulnerability of different cell types in synucleinopathies.
Conclusions

The elucidation of the cellular processes involved in the pathological aggregation of alpha-synuclein will enable the identification of novel targets and the development of therapeutic strategies for Parkinson's disease and other synucleinopathies.