bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of bacterial community types, functional microbial processes and lung disease in cystic fibrosis airways
Authors: Widder Stefanie , Zhao Jiangchao , Carmody Lisa A , Zhang Qingyang , Kalikin Linda M , Schloss Patrick D , LiPuma John J 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Bacterial infection and inflammation of the airways are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in persons with cystic fibrosis (CF). The ecology of the bacterial communities inhabiting CF airways is poorly understood, especially with respect to how community structure, dynamics, and microbial metabolic activity relate to clinical outcomes. In this study, the bacterial communities in 818 sputum samples from 109 persons with CF were analyzed by sequencing bacterial 16S rRNA gene amplicons. We identified eight alternative community types (pulmotypes) by using a Dirichlet multinomial mixture model and studied their temporal dynamics in the cohort. Across patients, the pulmotypes displayed chronological patterns in the transition among each other. Furthermore, significant correlations between pulmotypes and patient clinical status were detected by using multinomial mixed effects models, principal components regression, and statistical testing. Constructing pulmotype-specific metabolic activity profiles, we found that pulmotype microbiota drive distinct community functions including mucus degradation or increased acid production. These results indicate that pulmotypes are the result of ordered, underlying drivers such as predominant metabolism, ecological competition, and niche construction and can form the basis for quantitative, predictive models supporting clinical treatment decisions.
Body–mind relaxation meditation modulates the thalamocortical functional connectivity in major depressive disorder: a preliminary resting-state fMRI study
Authors: Chen Fangfang , Lv Xueyu , Fang Jiliang , Li Tao , Xu Jinping , Wang Xiaoling , Hong Yang , Hong Lan , Wang Jian , Wang Weidong , Wang Chao 
Published: October 2021

AbstractMindfulness-based interventions such as meditation have increasingly been utilized for the treatment of psychological disorders and have been shown to be effective in the treatment of depression and relapse prevention. However, it remains largely unclear the neural mechanism of the therapeutic effects of meditation among depressed individuals. In this study, we investigated how body–mind relaxation meditation (BMRM) can modulate the thalamocortical functional connectivity (FC) in major depressive disorder patients and healthy controls. In the present study, we recruited 21 medication-naive adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDDs) and 24 matched healthy controls (HCs). We designed an audio recording to induce body–mind relaxation meditation. Resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) scans were collected before and after the BMRM intervention in both groups. The thalamus subregions were defined according to the Human Brainnetome Atlas, and functional connectivity (FC) was measured and compared to find brain regions that were affected by the BMRM intervention. Before the BMRM intervention, MDDs showed reduced FC of the bilateral precuneus/post cingulate cortex with the left posterior parietal thalamus and left caudal temporal thalamus, as well as an increased FC of the left occipital thalamus with the left medial frontal cortex. Moreover, aberrant FCs in MDDs at baseline were normalized following the BMRM intervention. After the BMRM intervention, both MDDs and HCs showed decreased FC between the left rostral temporal thalamus and the left inferior occipital. Given the small sample used in this study, future studies are warranted to evaluate the generalizability of these findings. Our findings suggest that BMRM is associated with changes in thalamocortical functional connectivity in MDDs. BMRM may act by strengthening connections between the thalamus and the default mode network, which are involved in a variety of high-level functioning, such as attention and self-related processes.
METTL3-mediated mRNA N6-methyladenosine is required for oocyte and follicle development in mice
Authors: Mu Haiyuan , Zhang Ting , Yang Ying , Zhang Danru , Gao Jie , Li Junhong , Yue Liang , Gao Dengfeng , Shi Bingbo , Han Yue , Zhong Liang , Chen Xinze , Wang Zhen-Bo , Lin Zhen , Tong Ming-Han , Sun Qing-Yuan , Yang Yun-Gui , Han Jianyong 
Published: October 2021

AbstractProper follicle development is very important for the production of mature oocytes, which is essential for the maintenance of female fertility. This complex biological process requires precise gene regulation. The most abundant modification of mRNA, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), is involved in many RNA metabolism processes, including RNA splicing, translation, stability, and degradation. Here, we report that m6A plays essential roles during oocyte and follicle development. Oocyte-specific inactivation of the key m6A methyltransferase Mettl3 with Gdf9-Cre caused DNA damage accumulation in oocytes, defective follicle development, and abnormal ovulation. Mechanistically, combined RNA-seq and m6A methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) data from oocytes revealed, that we found METTL3 targets Itsn2 for m6A modification and then enhances its stability to influence the oocytes meiosis. Taken together, our findings highlight the crucial roles of mRNA m6A modification in follicle development and coordination of RNA stabilization during oocyte growth.
Triple-negative breast cancer cells rely on kinase-independent functions of CDK8 to evade NK-cell-mediated tumor surveillance
Authors: Knab Vanessa Maria , Gotthardt Dagmar , Klein Klara , Grausenburger Reinhard , Heller Gerwin , Menzl Ingeborg , Prinz Daniela , Trifinopoulos Jana , List Julia , Fux Daniela , Witalisz-Siepracka Agnieszka , Sexl Veronika 
Published: October 2021

AbstractTriple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive malignant disease that is responsible for approximately 15% of breast cancers. The standard of care relies on surgery and chemotherapy but the prognosis is poor and there is an urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. Recent in silico studies have revealed an inverse correlation between recurrence-free survival and the level of cyclin-dependent kinase 8 (CDK8) in breast cancer patients. CDK8 is known to have a role in natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, but its function in TNBC progression and immune cell recognition or escape has not been investigated. We have used a murine model of orthotopic breast cancer to study the tumor-intrinsic role of CDK8 in TNBC. Knockdown of CDK8 in TNBC cells impairs tumor regrowth upon surgical removal and prevents metastasis. In the absence of CDK8, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is impaired and immune-mediated tumor-cell clearance is facilitated. CDK8 drives EMT in TNBC cells in a kinase-independent manner. In vivo experiments have confirmed that CDK8 is a crucial regulator of NK-cell-mediated immune evasion in TNBC. The studies also show that CDK8 is involved in regulating the checkpoint inhibitor programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). The CDK8–PD-L1 axis is found in mouse and human TNBC cells, underlining the importance of CDK8-driven immune cell evasion in these highly aggressive breast cancer cells. Our data link CDK8 to PD-L1 expression and provide a rationale for investigating the possibility of CDK8-directed therapy for TNBC.
ARID1A deficiency weakens BRG1-RAD21 interaction that jeopardizes chromatin compactness and drives liver cancer cell metastasis
Authors: Shang Xue-Ying , Shi Yi , He Dan-Dan , Wang Lan , Luo Qing , Deng Chuan-Huai , Qu Yu-Lan , Wang Na , Han Ze-Guang 
Published: October 2021

AbstractARID1A, encoding a subunit of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, is widely recognized as a tumor suppressor gene in multiple tumor types including liver cancer. Previous studies have demonstrated that ARID1A deficiency can cause liver cancer metastasis, possibly due to the altered chromatin organization, however the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. To address the effect of Arid1a deficiency on chromatin organization, we generated chromatin interaction matrices, and exploited the conformation changes upon Arid1a depletion in hepatocytes. Our results demonstrated that Arid1a deficiency induced A/B compartment switching, topologically associated domain (TAD) remodeling, and decrease of chromatin loops. Further mechanism studies revealed that ATPase BRG1 of SWI/SNF complex could physically interact with RAD21, a structural subunit of chromatin architectural element cohesin; whereas ARID1A deficiency significantly diminished the coupled BRG1-RAD21. Interestingly, the tumor-associated genes within the switched compartments were differentially expressed depending upon Arid1a depletion or not. As a consequence of ARID1A deficiency-induced conformational alteration, the dysregulation of some genes such as PMP22 and GSC, promoted the invasion capacity of liver cancer cells. This study provides an insight into liver cancer tumorigenesis and progression related to ARID1A mutations.
Three-dimensional assessment of posterior capsule–intraocular lens interaction with and without primary posterior capsulorrhexis: an intraindividual randomized trial
Authors: Yu Mengting , Huang Yue , Wang Yingbin , Xiao Suzhen , Wu Xinna , Wu Wenjie 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Purpose
To assess the morphologic and clinical features of posterior capsule-intraocular lens (IOL) interaction following cataract surgery with and without primary posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis (PPCCC) at a three-dimensional (3-D) level using Scheimpflug imaging.

Methods
This prospective intraindividual randomized comparative study comprised 56 patients (112 eyes) with age-related cataract who had bilateral cataract surgery and hydrophobic acrylic IOLs implantation. In randomized order, cataract surgery with PPCCC was performed in 1 eye (PPCCC group), and the posterior capsule was left intact in the fellow eye (NPCCC group). Scheimpflug imaging containing 25 images distributed in 360° was taken 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.

Results
46 patients completed 3 months follow-up. Posterior capsule–IOL interaction can be morphologically classified into two types including complete adhesion and floppy shape in PPCCC group, and six types including full area wave, full area flat, concentric ring wave, concentric ring flat, sector, and complete adhesion in NPCCC group. The adhesion index (AI), defined as the proportion of complete adhesion of posterior capsule–IOL in 25 cross-section tomograms, was 0.45 ± 0.45, 0.79 ± 0.37, 0.92 ± 0.26 and 1.00 ± 0.00 in PPCCC group, while 0.05 ± 0.18, 0.41 ± 0.47, 0.87 ± 0.34, and 0.96 ± 0.21 in NPCCC group at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month and 3 months postoperatively, respectively (p = 0.001, 0.001, 0.338 and 0.151).

Conclusions
3-D Scheimpflug imaging was favorable in observing of posterior capsule–IOL interaction. Faster posterior capsule adhesion to the IOL was found in PPCCC group than in NPCCC group.
Robust nanosheet-assembled Al2O3-supported Ni catalysts for the dry reforming of methane: the effect of nickel content on the catalytic performance and carbon formation
Authors: Zhang Shuangshuang , Yang Tao , Yu Jun , Zhan Wangcheng , Wang Li , Guo Yun , Guo Yanglong 
Published: October 2021

Nanosheet-assembled Al2O3 for loading Ni were successfully prepared. Enhancing Ni loading decreases the Ni dispersion and the interaction between Ni and support. 5%-Ni/(NA-Al2O3) catalyst possesses an excellent activity and coke resistance for dry reforming of methane.
Mechanism analysis and mitigation strategies for oscillatory instability of synchronous generators affected by voltage source converters
Authors: Xue Yicheng , Wang Guoteng , Zhang Zheren , Xu Zheng 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe electric power systems are experiencing a transformation to be characterized by power electronic devices, for example, voltage source converters (VSCs). However, the large‐capacity VSC will interact with the synchronous generators (SGs) and could lead to low‐frequency oscillation (LFO). It becomes a hurdle for the secure and stable operation of modern electric power systems. Therefore, this paper analyses the oscillatory instability mechanism of the SG with the penetration of grid‐forming (GFM) and grid‐following (GFL) VSC. The distinctive transfer function model of the SG‐VSC system is first developed. Then, through parameter sensitivity and transfer function analysis, the impact of three types of VSC is investigated, encompassing GFM‐VSC and GFL‐VSCs with two conventional reactive control schemes. It proves that the voltage control of the VSC can be detrimental to the damping torque of the SG. According to the theoretical analysis, a supplementary compensator is proposed to suppress the LFO induced by the VSC. Finally, case studies in a two‐area test system validate the analytical results and robustness of the proposed enhancement method.
Exploring regression models to enable monitoring capability of local energy communities for self‐management in low‐voltage distribution networks
Authors: Mai Tam T. , Nguyen Phuong H. , Haque Niyam A. N. M. M. , Pemen Guus A. J. M. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThis study proposes a data‐driven approach to enable the self‐management capability of local energy communities (LECs) via transformer congestion monitoring in low‐voltage distribution networks. A set of regression models is adopted in this approach, while the data from residential smart meters (SMs) is leveraged. Four machine learning algorithms, namely ridge regression, support vector regression, random forest regression (RFR) and eXtreme gradient boosting regression (XGBR), are compared to select the best‐performing regression model using a cross‐validation method. A comprehensive framework is provided to facilitate comparison of the algorithm, consisting of data pre‐processing, model fitting and validation, and model deployment. A thorough analysis is also SMs' measurements. The obtained results highlight that the regression‐based method can effectively estimate the transformer loading, that is with the Pearson correlation coefficient and root mean square error calculated for the real values and the estimated values of around 0.98 and 0.87, respectively, by using only a limited set of SM measurements (5 out of 21 SMs used) provided by the LECs while preserving customers' privacy rights. Among the examined algorithms, the XGBR algorithm appears the best method as it achieves adequate accuracy at significantly less simulation time (i.e. one‐third of the simulation time of the RFR). By applying the proposed approach, the monitoring and self‐management capability of the LECs can be realised.
Test Protocol Optimization of the Heart Rate-based Lactate Minimum
Test
Authors: Perret Claudio , Kurzen Jan 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe determination of the maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) requires at least
two constant load tests. Therefore, different testing procedures to indirectly
determine MLSS based on one single test have been developed. One such method is
the application of the lactate minimum tests (LMT), where workload and heart
rate-based protocols exist. The latter showed significant correlations between
parameters at lactate minimum (LM) and MLSS for running and cycling. However, LM
clearly underestimated MLSS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to optimize
the already existing test protocol in terms of an improved agreement between LM
and MLSS. Fourteen healthy endurance-trained male athletes (age:
39.7±8.2 y; height: 180.9±6.2 cm; body mass:
78.6±7.1 kg) performed four different heart rate-based LMT
protocols, the original and three new protocols. Additionally, they performed
several constant heart rate endurance tests for assessing MLSS exercise
intensity. Heart rate, blood lactate concentration, oxygen uptake and power at
LM of two of our new test protocols with an increased start intensity were
closer to and no longer different from MLSS data. We conclude that these two new
test protocols can be used in practice to estimate heart rate-based MLSS by
means of one single exercise test.
Ein Jahr Covid-19: Testung, Verwendung von Schutzausrüstung und Auswirkungen auf die Gastrointestinale Endoskopie in Deutschland
Authors: Kahn Maria , Zellmer Stephan , Ebigbo Alanna , Muzalyova Anna , Classen Johanna , Grünherz Vivien , Böser Janis , Breitling Lutz P. , Beyer Albert , Rosendahl Jonas , Lammert Frank , Traidl-Hoffmann Claudia , Messmann Helmut , Römmele Christoph 
Published: October 2021

Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund In der Bewältigung der COVID-19-Pandemie stehen Praxen und Kliniken vor großen Herausforderungen. Zu den Auswirkungen der Pandemie auf gastroenterologische Einrichtungen, insbesondere über einen zeitlichen Verlauf, gibt es bislang kaum Daten. Besonders für den ambulanten Versorgungssektor fehlt eine Datenbasis. Das Universitätsklinikum Augsburg wurde im Rahmen des Verbundprojektes B-FAST des Nationalen Forschungsnetzwerks der Universitätsmedizin beauftragt hierzu Daten zu generieren.
Methode Es wurden bundesweit mittels Onlinefragebogen gastroenterologische Einrichtungen befragt. Die Rekrutierung erfolgte über die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gastroenterologie, Verdauungs- und Stoffwechselkrankheiten (DGVS) und den Berufsverband niedergelassener Gastroenterologen (bng). Das vorliegende Manuskript gibt einen Überblick über Daten zur Verwendung von Schutzausrüstung, präinterventioneller Testung von Patienten, Mitarbeiterscreenings sowie wirtschaftlichen Auswirkungen über den Pandemieverlauf.
Ergebnisse 429 Einrichtungen beantworteten den Fragebogen. Praxen testeten ihre Patienten präinterventionell signifikant seltener als Kliniken (7,8 % vs. 82,6 %). In Kliniken wurden stationäre Patienten (93,1 %) signifikant häufiger getestet als ambulante Patienten (72,2 %). Die Verwendung von persönlicher Schutzausrüstung (PSA) nahm im Verlauf der Pandemie signifikant zu. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass über 70 % der Einrichtungen ihre Mitarbeiter nicht-anlassbezogen auf SARS-CoV-2 screenten. Kliniken sagten im Quartal 4/2020 signifikant häufiger elektive Prozeduren ab als Praxen. Die durchgeführten Prozeduren und die Umsatzentwicklung nahmen 2020 im Vergleich zum Vorjahr ab. Jedoch waren weniger Einrichtungen von einem Umsatzverlust betroffen als in vorangegangenen Studien erwartet wurde.
Schlussfolgerung Unserer Daten veranschaulichen die unterschiedliche Umsetzung präinterventioneller SARS-CoV-2 Testung in der ambulanten und stationären Patientenversorgung. Die Verwendung adäquater PSA und Mitarbeiterscreeningmaßnahmen konnten im Verlauf der Pandemie gesteigert werden.
Reproductive Life Planning in Adolescents
Authors: Boyle Jacqueline A. , Yimer Nigus Bililign , Hall Jennifer , Walker Ruth , Jack Brian , Black Kirsten 
Published: October 2021

AbstractUnplanned pregnancy in adolescents contributes to the burden of disease, mortality, and health and educational disparities experienced by young people during this vulnerable period between childhood and adulthood. Reproductive life planning (RLP) is an approach that has been endorsed and adopted internationally, which prompts individuals and couples to set personal goals regarding if and when to have children based on their own personal priorities. This review discusses RLP tools, their acceptability, effectiveness, and issues in implementation across different contexts, with a specific focus on how RLP has been applied for adolescents. While a range of RLP tools are available and considered acceptable in adult populations, there is minimal evidence of their potential benefits for adolescent populations. Online platforms and information technology are likely to promote reach and implementation of RLP interventions in adolescents. Consideration of the socioecological contexts where adolescent pregnancies are more common should be integral to much needed future work that explores RLP interventions in adolescents.
MicrosimUC: Validation of a Low-Cost, Portable, Do-It-Yourself Microsurgery Training Kit
Authors: Navia Alfonso , Tejos Rodrigo , Canahuate Sebastian , Machuca Eduardo , Searle Susana , Cuadra Alvaro , Dagnino Bruno 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background Microsurgery depends largely on simulated training to acquire skills. Courses offered worldwide are usually short and intensive and depend on a physical laboratory. Our objective was to develop and validate a portable, low-cost microsurgery training kit.
Methods We modified a miniature microscope. Twenty general surgery residents were selected and divided into two groups: (1) home-based training with the portable microscope (MicrosimUC, n = 10) and (2) the traditional validated microsurgery course at our laboratory (MicroLab, n = 10). Before the intervention, they were assessed making an end-to-end anastomosis in a chicken wing artery. Then, each member of the MicrosimUC group took a portable kit for remote skill training and completed an eight-session curriculum. The laboratory group was trained at the laboratory. After completion of training, they were all reassessed. Pre- and posttraining procedures were recorded and rated by two blind experts using time, basic, and specific scales. Wilcoxon's and Mann–Whitney tests were used to compare scores. The model was tested by experts (n = 10) and a survey was applied to evaluate face and content validity.
Results MicrosimUC residents significantly improved their median performance scores after completion of training (p < 0.05), with no significant differences compared with the MicroLab group. The model was rated very useful for acquiring skills with 100% of experts considering it for training. Each kit had a cost of U.S. $92, excluding shipping expenses.
Conclusion We developed a low-cost, portable microsurgical training kit and curriculum with significant acquisition of skills in a group of residents, comparable to a formal microsurgery course.
Adolescent Fertility Preservation: Where Do We Stand Now
Authors: Alur-Gupta Snigdha , Vu Michelle , Vitek Wendy 
Published: October 2021

AbstractAdolescence is a period of flux for many body systems. While fertility potential typically increases after menarche, there are diseases where the opposite occurs and fertility preservation options need to be considered early. In cases of cancer, options vary by pubertal status and can include ovarian tissue cryopreservation, oocyte cryopreservation, sperm cryopreservation, and testicular tissue cryopreservation. Much remains to be learned about fertility and preservation options in those with differences in sexual development (DSDs); however, depending on the form of DSD, fertility preservation may not be necessary. Similarly, traditional fertility counseling in children with galactosemia may need to be changed, as data suggest that fertility rates attributed to other causes of premature ovarian insufficiency may not be as applicable to this disease. Adolescents with Turner's syndrome are at high risk for premature ovarian failure; therefore, it is important to consider options as early as possible since ovarian reserves are depleted quickly. On the other hand, transgender and gender diverse adolescents may even be able to undergo fertility preservation after starting hormone therapy. In all cases, there are additional ethical components including technical/surgical risks in childhood, offering experimental therapies without creating false hope and evaluating children's consent and assent capabilities that must be considered.