bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of a Novel Lipid Metabolism-Related Gene Signature in Prognosis of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Zhu Ke , Xiaoqiang Liu , Deng Wen , Wang Gongxian , Fu Bin 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
BackgroundBladder cancer (BLCA) is a destructive cancer with unfavorable prognosis. Mounting studies have demonstrated that lipid metabolism affected the progression and treatment of tumor. Therefore, we aimed to explore the function and prognostic value of lipid metabolism-related genes in patients with bladder cancer.MethodsLipid metabolism-related genes (LRGs) were acquired from Molecular Signature Database (MSigDB). LRG mRNA expression and clinical data were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Cox regression analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis were used to identify the prognostic gene for predicting overall survival in BLCA. The Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to assess the prognosis. The function of LRGs was explored via enrichment analysis and single sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA). CMAP database was used to find the small molecule drugs for treatment.ResultsWe successfully constructed and validated a 11-LRG risk model for predicting the prognosis of BLCA patients. Furthermore, we also found that the 11-gene signature was an independent hazardous factor. Functional analysis suggested that LRGs were closely related with the PPAR signaling pathway, fatty acid metabolism and AMPK signaling pathway. LRGs were also involved in immune cells infiltration. Five small molecule drugs could be the candidate treatment for BLCA patients based on CMAP dataset.ConclusionIn conclusion, we identified a reliable prognostic biomarker based on11-LRG signature and found five small molecule drugs for BLCA patient treatments.
Evolution of resistance to COVID-19 vaccination with dynamic lockdown
Authors: Nowak Martin , Lobinska Gabriela , Pauzner Ady , Traulsen Arne , Pilpel Yitzhak 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented global response in terms of social lockdown in order to slow the spread of the virus 1,2. Currently the greatest hope is based on world-wide vaccination3,4. The expectation is that social and economic activities can gradually resume as more and more people become vaccinated. Yet, a relaxation of social distancing that allows increased transmissibility, coupled with selection pressure due to vaccination, will likely lead to the emergence of vaccine resistance 5. Here we analyze the evolutionary dynamics of COVID-19 in the presence of dynamic lockdown and in response to vaccination. We use infection and vaccination data of 6 different countries (Israel, US, UK, Brazil, France and Germany) to assess the probability and timing for the wave of vaccine resistant mutant2. For slow vaccination rates, resistant mutants will appear inevitably even if strict lockdown is maintained. For fast vaccination rates (such as those used in Israel) the emergence of the mutant can be prevented if strict lockdown is maintained during vaccination. Our mathematical results provide quantitative guidelines for a combined vaccination and lockdown policy that minimizes the probability of emergence of vaccine resistance variants for current and future vaccination programs.
As Long as (I Think) My Husband Agrees…: Role of Perceived Partner Approval in Contraceptive Use Among Military Couples Living in Kinshasa, DRC
Authors: Hernandez Julie H. , Babazadeh Saleh , Anglewicz Philip , Akilimali Pierre Z 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Male partner’s approval is a key determinant of contraceptive use for women living in Sub-Saharan Africa and improving men’s support and couple communication is a cornerstone of family planning programs. However, approval is often only measured through the women’s perception of their partner’s opinion.Methods: This study conducted in Kinshasa compares contraceptive approval variables from matched male and female partners to establish the frequency of (in)accurate perceptions by the woman, then test their association with modern contraceptive use. Additional regressions estimate individual and couple variables associated with (in)correct perceptions. Results: Results confirm women are poorly aware of their partner’s opinion but indicate that perceived approval or disapproval by the woman is a much stronger determinant of modern contraceptive use than her partner’s actual opinion. Higher educational achievement from the woman is the strongest driver of misunderstanding her partner’s approval. Conclusions: Women’s perceptions of partner’s approval are much stronger determinant of contraceptive use than the latter’s actual opinion, and stereotyping men’s opinion of family planning is a common error of appreciation. However, findings also suggest these misunderstandings might serve women’s capacity to negotiate contraceptive use.
Straw incorporation in deep soil layer promotes net photosynthetic carbon assimilation and maize growth in Northeast China
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Li Jiaqi , Wang Danlei , An Tingting , Qin Wei , Zou Hongtao , Rengel Zed 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background and aims

Returning straw into soil could increase soil organic carbon (SOC) and promote crop growth. However, little has been reported on the source of C for increased SOC (straw C or crop photosynthetic C).
Methods

To investigate the assimilation of photosynthetic C and its distribution in soil in the maize growth season, we set up a one-year 13C pulse-labelling experiment in a consecutive maize straw returning long-term trial. Four treatments were included: no straw return (control), straw mulching on the soil surface (cover), return in 0–20 cm layer (shallow) and 20–40 cm layer (deep).
Results

We found that the deep straw incorporation significantly (P < 0.05) increased maize grain yield (by 2.9%) and SOC (by 13.4%). During the growing season, the deep straw incorporation increased photosynthetic 13C assimilation in shoots by 17.4% and the partitioning of photosynthetic 13C to soil by 7.9% at early jointing, and by 11.5% at maturity. The contribution of photosynthetic C to microbial biomass C (MBC) and dissolved organic C (DOC) was highest at jointing, and at harvest amounted to 39.1 % of MBC and 28.8% of DOC.
Conclusion

The results highlighted the importance of regulating the soil carbon dynamics via the deep straw return strategy. In conclusion, deep straw incorporation significantly increased photosynthetic efficiency and facilitated partitioning of photosynthetic C to roots and soil, thus promoting maize growth.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Treatment Failure Among Children on ART in Ethiopia: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Gelaw Belete , Dessalegn Lemma , Alem Eyasu , Lankirew Tadele , Eshetu Kirubel , Marew Chalie , Chekole Bogale , Kassaw Amare 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: As the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) increases, the issue of treatment failure is still a global challenge, particularly in a resource limited settings including Ethiopia. The results of former studies in Ethiopia were highly variable and inconsistent across studies. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis intended to provide the pooled estimation of treatment failure and associated factors among children on antiretroviral therapy.Methods: We searched international databases (i.e., PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Ethiopian Universities’ online repository library, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library) during the period of February 30 to April 7, 2021. All identified observational studies reporting the proportion of treatment failure among HIV positive children in Ethiopia were included. Heterogeneity of the studies was checked using I2 test and Cochrane Q test statistics. We run Begg’s regression test to assess publication bias. A random-effects meta-analysis model was performed to estimate the pooled prevalence of treatment failure. Results: The estimated pooled prevalence of treatment failure among children in Ethiopia was 12.34 (95%CI: 8.59, 16.10). Subgroup analysis of this review showed that the highest prevalence was observed in Addis Ababa (15.92%), followed by Oromia region (14.47%). Poor ART adherence (AOR=2.53, CI: 2.03, 4.97), advanced WHO clinical staging (AOR=1.66, CI: 1.24, 3.21), and opportunistic infections (AOR= 2.64 CI: 2.19, 4.31 were found to be significantly associated factors with childhood treatment failure.Conclusion: This study revealed that treatment failure among children on ART was high in Ethiopia. Poor ART adherence, advanced WHO clinical staging, opportunistic infections, and low level of CD4 cell counts increased the risk of treatment failure.
Changes In Left Atrial Appendage Orifice Following Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure Using Three-Dimensional Echocardiography
Authors: Ortiz-Leon Xochitl Arely , Posada-Martinez Edith Liliana , Bregasi Alda , Chen Wanwen , Crandall Ian , Pereira Jason , Faridi Kamil F. , Akar Joseph G. , Lin Ben A. , McNamara Robert L. , Freeman James V. , Curtis Jeptha , Arias-Godinez Jose Antonio , Sugeng Lissa 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion is increasingly performed in patients with atrial fibrillation and long-term contraindications for anticoagulation. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of LAA occlusion with the Watchman device on the geometry of the LAA orifice and assess its impact on the adjacent left upper pulmonary vein (LUPV) hemodynamics.Methods: We included 50 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous LAA occlusion with the Watchman device. Three-dimensional images of LAA pre- and post-device placement were analyzed offline. We measured the LAA orifice diameters in the long axis, and the minimum and maximum diameters, circumference, and area in the short axis view. Eccentricity index was calculated as maximum/minimum diameter ratio. The LUPV peak S and D velocities pre- and post-procedure were also measured.Results: Patients were elderly (mean age 76±8 years years), 30 (60%) were men. There was a significant increase of all LAA orifice dimensions following LAA occlusion: diameter 1 (pre-device 18.1±3.2 vs. post-device 21.5±3.4 mm, p<0.001), diameter 2 (20.6±3.9 vs. 22.1±3.6 mm, p<0.001), minimum diameter (17.6±3.1 vs. 21.3±3.4 mm, p<0.001), maximum diameter (21.5±3.9 vs. 22.4±3.6 mm, p=0.022), circumference (63.6±10.7 vs. 69.6±10.5 mm, p<0.001), and area (3.1±1.1 vs. 3.9±1.2 cm2, p<0.001). Eccentricity index decreased after procedure (1.23±0.16 vs. 1.06±0.06, p<0.001). LUPV peak S and D velocities did not show a significant difference (0.29±0.15 vs. 0.30±0.14 cm/s, p=0.637; and 0.47±0.19 vs. 0.48±0.20 cm/s, p=0.549; respectively).Conclusion: LAA orifice stretches significantly and it becomes more circular following LAA occlusion without causing a significant impact on the LUPV hemodynamics.
Unraveling Counseling Practices in HIV Prevention Targeted Intervention in India
Authors: Pandya Apurvakumar , Kapadia Shagufa 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Counseling is an essential strategy for preventing sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, research on counseling practices in targeted HIV prevention interventions is limited. We conducted a grounded theory study to develop a theoretical model explaining HIV counseling practices within Targeted Interventions (TI) in Gujarat. Using constructivist grounded theory methodology, we conducted in-depth interviews of 14 counselors and observed counseling sessions of five counselors. Data were analyzed using a constant-comparative method, performing four levels of coding: open, axial, focused, and theoretical. Our theoretical model illustrates key culture-specific features in HIV counseling and how counselors facilitate the counseling process in the local cultural context and programatic environment. Present study reveals the values and practices reflective of the Indian culture that inform the counseling process and yield behavior change in clients. In the end, authors highlight challenges and recommendations for HIV counselors.
Analysis of Factors Affecting the Clinical Course in C5 Palsy: A Korean Cervical Spine Study Group (KCSSG) Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Ho Jin , Oh Jae Keun , Kang Dong Ho , Kim Ki-Jeong , Chung Chun Kee , Hur Jung-Woo , Yi Seong , Shin Jun Jae , Lee Sun Ho , Choi Kyung Chul , Kim Kyung Hyun , Cho Dae-Chul , Jin Yong Jun , Han In Ho , Hong Jae Taek 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The development of C5 palsy is a serious, well-documented complication after cervical spine surgery. Therefore, a more precise and extensive analysis of C5 palsy is required. The present study aimed to evaluate the characteristics and clinical course of C5 palsy using a Korean Cervical Spine Study Group (KCSSG) database. A retrospective review of clinical and radiological data was performed for 85 patients who had C5 palsy. We investigated multiple clinical factors [main pathology, pre-operative symptoms, surgical method, symptom duration, operation method, side of C5 palsy, C5 palsy grade and onset time, course of recovery from C5 palsy, and Japanese Orthopedic Association score] and radiological factors [C4–5 foramen diameter, occupying ratio, T2HIZ (high intensity zone in T2 weighted magnetic resonance image)] .On multivariate analysis, old age (OR 12.73 [95% CI 1.1-147.37]), posterior approach (OR 39.16 [95% CI 2.24-682.31], radiculopathy (OR 13.5 [95% CI 1.06-171.2]), OPLL(OR 13.7 [95% CI 1.33-140.77]), C2-7 angle (pre-OP; OR 0.83 [95% CI 0.71-0.98, post-OP; OR 1.26 [95% CI 1.03-1.53]) were the predictor for early onset of C5 palsy. Small dimension of C4-5 foramen (OR 0.58 [95% CI 0.37-0.92]) and less degree of cord rotation (pre-OP, OR 0.83 [95% CI 0.72-0.96]), were the predictor for severe status of C5 palsy. The clinical course of C5 palsy (onset and severity) was influenced by age, pre-operative symptom, surgical approach, main pathology, C2-7 angle, T2HIZ grade, pre-operative cord rotation and C4-5 foramen diameter.
The stress granule protein G3BP1 reduces the levels of different polyglutamine proteins and alleviates spinocerebellar ataxia associated deficits
Authors: Koppenol Rebekah , Conceição André , Marcelo Adriana , Tomé Sandra , Côdesso José-Miguel , Mendonça Liliana , de Almeida Luis Pereira , Matos Carlos , Nóbrega Clévio 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Polyglutamine (polyQ) diseases are a group of 9 rare neurodegenerative disorders caused by an abnormal expansion of the CAG trinucleotide in the codifying regions of the respective disease-associated gene. The trinucleotide abnormal expansion leads to the translation of a protein containing an overexpanded tract of glutamines. PolyQ mutant proteins undergo a gain of toxic function disrupting normal cellular pathways leading to neuronal death and, consequently, leading to selective neurodegeneration of specific brain regions. Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) 2 and SCA3 (also known as Machado-Joseph disease) are two different polyQ diseases in which the ataxin-2 and ataxin-3 proteins, respectively, bear abnormally long polyQ tracts. Until now, there is no treatment for these fatal diseases or therapies that could delay the normal pathologic progression. Stress granules (SGs) are important structures formed in response to cellular stress, having an important role in mRNA triage. A core component of SGs is the RNA-binding protein (RBP) Ras GTPase-activating protein-binding protein 1 (G3BP1), which is also implicated in the SGs assembly. Furthermore, G3BP1 is known to have endoribonuclease activity and an important role in modulating RNA metabolism. In this study, we showed that G3BP1 is decreased in context of SCA2 and SCA3 disease. For that, we assessed whether restoring the expression levels of G3BP1 might positively impact the SCA2 and SCA3 pathology. We showed that gene delivery of G3BP1 in two distinct lentiviral mouse model of SCA2 and SCA3 was able to i) reduce the number of aggregates and ii) reduce the loss of neuronal marker associated with the mutant toxic proteins. Importantly, in a polyQ transgenic mouse model, lentiviral delivery of G3BP1 in the cerebellum was able to i) preserve the number of Purkinje cells, ii) reduce the number of HA-ataxin-3 and, importantly iii) improve the motor performance, balance and coordination. Additionally, we identify the nuclear transport nuclear transport factor 2-like (NTF2-like) domain and the ser149 phosphorylation site of G3BP1 as a key players in the reduction of mutant ataxin-2 and ataxin-3 levels and aggregation. Altogether these results showed that gene delivery of G3BP1 is able of mitigating the disease-associated phenotype in SCA2 and SCA3 disease, in three different disease mouse models. Therefore, this study suggests G3BP1 as a novel therapeutic target for SCA2 and SCA3 diseases.
Utilisation of Prenatal Diagnostics During Pregnancy in Germany: Cross-sectional Study Using Data From the KUNO Kids Health Study
Authors: Mayer Johanna , Brandstetter Susanne , Tischer Christina , Seelbach-Göbel Birgit , Malfertheiner Sara Fill , Melter Michael , Kabesch Michael , Apfelbacher Christian 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Appropriate health system utilisation during pregnancy is fundamental for maintaining maternal and child’s health. This study provides comprehensive data on supplementary prenatal diagnostics use and its influencing factors in Germany. Methods: We obtained data from a recently established prospective German birth cohort study, the KUNO Kids Health Study, with a study sample of 1886 participating mothers. Analyses are based on Andersen’s Behavioural Model of health system use, which distinguishes between predisposing, enabling and need factors. We examined bi- and multivariate association with the use of supplementary prenatal diagnostics using logistic regression. Results: One fifth of the mothers investigated did not use any supplementary prenatal diagnostics. Notably, the chance of using supplementary prenatal diagnostics more than doubled if the pregnant woman had a private health insurance. Higher maternal age and environmental tobacco smoke exposure increased the use of supplementary prenatal diagnostics. However, regarding need factors only having a risk-pregnancy showed an independent association.Conclusion: Although a shift in the importance of need factors towards enabling factors for preventive health services has been described before, the important role of the type of health insurance and the relatively small influence of need factors was surprising and worrisome. Especially with respect to equity in accessing health care, this needs further attention.
Ultrafast and long-range self-transport of droplets on multi-bioinspired surface with periodic gradient structure
Authors: Xie Dongdong , Wang Guilian , Sun Yunna , Wu Chaofeng , Ding Guifu 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Droplet self-transport is crucial in various fields ranging from physics to biochemistry. Despite extensive progress, existing systems for droplet self-transport still perform at low transport velocity or limited transport range. Here, a multi-bioinspired surface comprising two-dimensional gradient structures is proposed innovatively, which integrates the heterogeneous wettability with the shape gradient morphology. Droplet transport behaviors are systematically investigated from experiment, theory, and simulation. The fabricated structure achieves the ultrafast (over ~ 450 mm/s) and long-range (over ~ 200 mm) self-transport of droplets. Moreover, the fantastic scalability of this structure enables it to pump numerous multi-scale droplets from one site to the preset region with ultralow loss. Drawing inspirations, two systems have been designed to complete complex tasks on open surface. This work provides a reliable droplet manipulation strategy for various applications, such as water collection, microfluidics, and biomedicine, etc.
Magnetite layer formation in the Bushveld Complex of South Africa
Authors: Yao Zhuo-Sen , Mungall James 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The great economic significance of layered mafic-ultramafic intrusions like the Bushveld Complex of South Africa results from the existence within them of some layers highly concentrated in valuable elements. Here we address the origins of the Main Magnetite Layer, a globally important resource of Fe-Ti-V-rich magnetite. Previous models of in situ fractional magnetite crystallization require frequent ad hoc adjustments to the boundary conditions. An alternative model of rapid deposition of loose piles of magnetite crystals followed by compositional convection near the top of the pile and infiltration of the pile from beneath by migrating intercumulus melt fits observations without any adjustments. The data admit both explanations, but the latter model, with the fewest unconstrained interventions, is preferable. The choice of models has pivotal ramifications for understanding of the fundamental processes by which crystals accumulate and layers form in layered intrusions.
The Inclusion of Microclimate Modelling for House Heating Energy Simulation in Wellington, New Zealand
Authors: sunarya wendy , Isaacs Nigel , Donn Michael Robert 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Site is an important factor in determining building design strategies for responding to the local climate and minimizing energy use. Nevertheless, too often Building Energy Simulation (BES) supporting the design process uses a generic weather file from the local weather station rather than a site-specific microclimate. This study tests the inclusion of microclimate model, ENVI-met, for BES (EnergyPlus) to assess the impact of site parameters on house heating energy in Wellington (New Zealand) where micro-climates vary widely due to the local topography. The ENVI-met model validation was conducted with the air temperature difference of less than 0.5oC on average between simulated and measured data in ENVI-met model validation. The validation determines ENVI-met input settings for the integrated simulation with BES for site modelling. The integrated simulation test produced insignificant energy impacts for almost all parameters tested, but it has limitations in modelling slopes. This finding suggests that ENVI-met is not applicable for house heating energy simulation in hilly region.