bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biotechnological Potential of Bacterial Endoglucanase from Marine and Hypersaline Environments in Saccharification of Lignocellulosic Biomass Pre-Treated with Alkali or Ionic Liquid
Authors: Sar Abhijit , Biswas Sudipto , Biswas Raju , Misra Arijit , Pal Srikanta , Dam Bomba 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
In second-generation biofuel production, the recalcitrant plant biomass requires pretreatment prior to enzymatic hydrolysis. Pretreatment with alkali or ionic liquids (IL) such as 1-butyl 3-methyl immidazolium chloride ([Bmim][Cl]), are efficient but the residual salt in former, or IL in later process inhibits downstream enzymatic saccharification and thus require extensive washing. Recent studies have established IL tolerance by moderate halophilic bacteria being contributed by their general salt adaptation strategies. Objective of the present study is to examine whether the same holds true for their extracellular enzymes, and eventually select a few for future exploitation. In this direction, ten distinct endoglucanase positive (≥3 mm halo zone in congo-red cellulolytic assay) colonies were picked each from decomposed wood material of the hypersaline Sambhar Lake (SLW), in Rajasthan; and Bichitrapur (BPW) mangrove in Orissa. SLW and BPW samples had total salinities of 21.54% and 2.18%; and their isolates had optimum NaCl requirement of 10-15% and 1-5% respectively. The extracellular endoglucanase of SLW isolates were active in 5-25% NaCl but those from BPW remain active in only up to 5% NaCl. Interestingly, SLW endoglucanases also performed better in 10% and some even in 30% (v/v)[Bmim][Cl]. Endoglucanase secreted by two SLW isolates, identified by their 16S rRNA gene sequence as Salipaludibacillus sp. were effectively used for in situ enzymatic hydrolysis of both alkali and [Bmim][Cl] pretreated rice straw. However, endoglucanase from BPW isolate Salinicola sp. could hydrolyze seawater washed alkali-pretreated biomass thereby expanding their industrial applicability in coastal areas.
Screening for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) among Obese and Overweight Children: Prevalence and predictors
Authors: Thiagarajan Srinivasan , Shrinuvasan Sadhanandham , Babu Thirunavukkarasu Arun 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: Non- alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly recognised in obese and overweight children. NAFLD is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in these children. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of NAFLD and to identify the anthropometric, metabolic risk factors for NAFLD. Materials and methods: This cross sectional study was done with 154 overweight and obese children. The study population was divided into 2 groups based on the presence or absence of NAFLD by screening with ultrasonography and/or alanine transaminase levels. Anthropometric (Body mass index, waist circumference) and biochemical parameters (Total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, very low density lipoprotein, Insulin, Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase) were compared between these two groups. Results: NAFLD was diagnosed based on abnormal screening in 79 (51.3 %) overweight and obese children.. No age or gender difference was noted between 2 groups. NAFLD patients did not differ significantly from patients without NAFLD in age, Body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and waist circumference. LDL Cholesterol levels were found significantly higher in the NAFLD group. There was no significant difference found in lipid profile apart from LDL cholesterol, aspartate transaminase and HOMA-IR between 2 groups. Conclusion: NAFLD is common in overweight and obese South Indian children. High LDL cholesterol level is a risk factor for NAFLD in these children. Screening of this high risk group for early diagnosis of NAFLD is essential to prevent and monitor further progression of the disease.
Neural bases of audio-visual integration of socially meaningful information in macaques
Authors: Froesel Mathilda , Gacoin Maëva , Clavagnier Simon , Hauser Marc , Goudard Quentin , Hamed Suliann Ben 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Social interactions rely on the interpretation of semantic and emotional information, often from multiple sensory modalities. In primates, both audition and vision serve the interpretation of communicative signals. Autistic individuals present deficits in both social communication and audio-visual integration. At present, the neural mechanisms subserving the interpretation of complex audio-visual social events are unknown. Based on heart rate estimates and functional neuroimaging, we show that macaque monkeys associate affiliative facial expressions or social scenes with corresponding affiliative vocalizations, aggressive expressions or scenes with corresponding aggressive vocalizations and escape visual scenes with scream vocalizations, while suppressing vocalizations that are incongruent with the visual context. This process is subserved by two distinct functional networks, homologous to the human emotional and attentional networks activated during the processing of visual social information. These networks are thus critical for the construction of social meaning representation, and provide grounds for the audio-visual deficits observed in autism.One-sentence summary Macaques extract social meaning from visual and auditory input recruiting face and voice patches and a broader emotional and attentional network.
Calculation of Mohr-Coulomb Parameters for Rocks of Doha, Qatar
Authors: Vučemilović Hrvoje 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Among practitioners, designers and researchers, modern-day geotechnical software packages still predominantly use Mohr-Coulomb (MC) input modelling parameters, despite the immense computing power of today’s software and hardware components. The same particularly applies to this field of work in the state of Qatar. The goal of this technical note is to demonstrate the most appropriate derivation method for Mohr-Coulomb parameters, by proving that this must ensue by first obtaining or estimating proper Hoek-Brown parameters, followed by appropriate method for conversion. Only such an approach can remove uncertainty and high variability of results in geotechnical estimations and design inputs.
SIRT1 Suppresses Pituitary Tumor Progression by Downregulating PTTG1 Expression
Authors: Huang Jinxiang , Zhang Fenglin , Hu Guohan , Pan Yuan , Sun Wei , Jiang Lei , Wang Peng , Qiu Jiting , Ding Xuehua 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Pituitary tumor is among the most common types of brain tumor, and the underlying molecular mechanism of this disease is still obscure. Here we found downregulation of SIRT1 in tumor tissues of pituitary tumor patients by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry staining. In vitro studies reveal that upregulation of SIRT1 suppresses pituitary tumor cell line growth, and vice versa. We also find that enzymatic activity of SIRT1 is required for its cellular function. Mechanism study uncovers that SIRT1 negatively regulates PTTG1 expression by deacetylation of H3K9ac at promoter region of PTTG1. Moreover, H3K9ac level at PTTG1 promoter is an essential regulatory element for PTTG1 expression. Thus SIRT1/H3K9ac/PTTG1 axis contributes to pituitary tumor formation and may provide further potential therapeutic opportunity.
Investigation Into Deep Hole Drilling of Austenitic Steel With Optimised Tool Solutions
Authors: Felinks Nils , Rinschede Timo , Biermann Dirk , Stangier Dominic , Tillmann Wolfgang , Fuß Moritz , Abrahams Hendrik 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Deep hole drilling processes for high-alloyed materials are characterised by worn guide pads and chatter vibrations. In order to increase feed rates, process stability and bore quality in STS deep hole drilling, various investigations were carried out with adjustments to the tool. First, a new process chain for the production of tribologically optimized guide pads and their effects on the guide pad shape is described in detail. The results of theses studies show that the shape change in the area of the axial run-in chamfer through a micro finishing process leads to a better bore hole quality. Furthermore, the influence of guide pad coating and cooling lubricant on the deep hole drilling process was investigated. In addition, the machining of the austenitic steel AISI 304 is analyzed by using a conventional steel boring bar and an innovative CFRP-boring bar. While the conventional drill tube oscillates with different eigenfrequencies, the CFRP-boring bar damps chatter vibrations of the drill head and stabilizes the process. Even at higher feed rates up to f = 0.3 mm, it is possible to machine austenitic, difficult-to-cut-materials with significantly reduced vibrations.
Histological Regional Analysis of the Aortic Root and Thoracic Ascending Aorta: a Complete Analysis of Aneurysms From Root to Arch
Authors: Surman Timothy Luke , Abrahams John Matthew , Manavis Jim , Finnie John , O’Rourke Dermot , Reynolds Karen Jane , Edwards James , Worthington Michael George , Beltrame John 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundAlthough aortic root and ascending aortic aneurysms are treated the same, they differ in embryological development and pathological processes. This study examines the microscopic structural differences between aortic root and ascending aortic aneurysms, correlating these features to the macroscopic pathophysiological processes. MethodsWe obtained surgical samples from ascending aortic aneurysms (n=11), aortic root aneurysms (n=3), and non-aneurysmal patients (n=7), Aortic collagen and elastin content were examined via histological analysis, and immunohistochemistry techniques used to determine collagen I, III, and IV subtypes. Analysis was via observational features, and colour deconvolution quantification techniques. ResultsElastin fiber disruption and fragmentation was the most extensive in the proximal aneurysmal regions. Medial fibrosis and collagen density increased in proximal aneurysmal regions and aortic root aneurysms (p<0.005). Collagen I was seen in highest quantity in aortic root aneurysms. Collagen I content was greatest in the sinus tissue regions compared to the valvular and ostial regions (p<0.005) Collagen III and IV quantification did not vary greatly. The most susceptible regions to ultrastructural changes in disease are the proximal ascending aorta and aortic root.ConclusionsThe aortic root differs histologically from the ascending aorta confirming its unique composition in aneurysm pathology. These findings should prompt further evaluation on the influence of this altered structure on function which could potentially guide clinical management.
Increased Chitotriosidase1 Concentration Following Nusinersen Treatment in Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Freigang Maren , Steinacker Petra , Wurster Claudia Diana , Schreiber-Katz Olivia , Osmanovic Alma , Petri Susanne , Koch Jan Christoph , Rostásy Kevin , Falkenburger Björn , Ludolph Albert Christian , Otto Markus , Hermann Andreas , Günther René 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
BackgroundStudies regarding the impact of (neuro)inflammation and inflammatory response following repetitive, intrathecally administered antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) in 5q-associated spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) are sparse. Increased risk of hydrocephalus in untreated SMA patients and a marginal but significant increase of the serum / CSF albumin ratio (Qalb) with rare cases of communicating hydrocephalus during nusinersen treatment were reported, which confirms the unmet need of an inflammatory biomarker in SMA. The aim of this study was to investigate the (neuro)inflammatory marker chitotriosidase 1 (CHIT1) in SMA patients before and following the treatment with the ASO nusinersen. MethodsIn this prospective, multicenter observational study, we studied CSF CHIT1 concentrations in 58 adult and 21 pediatric patients with SMA type 1, 2 or 3 before treatment initiation in comparison to age- and sex-matched controls and investigated its dynamics during nusinersen treatment. Concurrently, motor performance and disease severity were assessed.ResultsCHIT1 concentrations were elevated in treatment-naïve SMA patients as compared to controls, but less pronounced than described for other neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. CHIT1 concentration did not correlate with disease severity and did not distinguish between clinical subtypes. CHIT1 concentration did show a significant increase during nusinersen treatment that was unrelated to the clinical response to nusinersen therapy.ConclusionsCHIT1 elevation in treatment-naïve SMA patients indicates the involvement of (neuro)inflammation in SMA. The lacking correlation of CHIT1 concentration with disease severity argues against its use as a marker of disease progression. The observed CHIT1 increase during nusinersen treatment may indicate an immune response-like, off-target reaction. Since antisense oligonucleotides are an establishing approach in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, this observation needs to be further evaluated.
Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) Indicated Frailty is Associated with Increased In-Hospital and 30-Day Mortality in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rottler Máté , Ocskay Klementina , Görbe Anikó , Virág Marcell , Hegyi Péter , Molnár Tihamér , Erőss Bálint , Leiner Tamás , Molnar Zsolt 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: The concept of frailty provides an age-independent, easy-to-use tool for risk stratification. We aimed to summarize the evidence regarding the use of frailty tools in COVID-19, assessing the risk of frail patients for in-hospital and 30-day mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and length of hospitalization (LOH).Methods: The protocol was prospectively registered via PROSPERO (CRD42021241544). Studies reporting on frailty in COVID-19 patients were eligible. We compared in-hospital and 30-day mortality, lengths of stay and ICU admission in frail and non-frail COVID-19 patients. We also compared average frailty in COVID-19 survivors and non-survivors. MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched up to 3 February 2021 with terms related to COVID-19 and frail*. Search, selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were conducted in duplicate by two independent review authors. The QUIPS tool was used for the risk of bias assessment. Odds ratios (OR) and weighted mean differences (WMD) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using a random effect model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 and χ2 tests.Results: From 1693 records identified, 27 were included in the qualitative and 21 in the quantitative synthesis. Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) was used in 24 studies, the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) by one and the Frail Non-Disabled questionnaire by another one. One study reported both CFS and HFRS. We found that frail patients (CFS 5–9) compared to non-frail patients (CFS 1–4) have a higher risk for both in-hospital (OR: 2.77; CI: 1.86–4.15) and 30-day mortality (OR: 1.47; CI:1.05–2.06). Frail patients (CFS 5–9) were less likely to be admitted to ICU (OR 0.05, CI: 0.01–0.16). Statistical heterogeneity was not present for CFS 5–9 30-day mortality OR and ICU admission OR (CFS 1–3 vs 4–9), and was moderate for in-hospital mortality WMD. Quantitative synthesis for LOH was not feasible. Most studies carried a high risk of bias.Conclusions: As determined by CFS, frailty is strongly associated with in-hospital and 30-day mortality; hence, investigating its use in deciding on ICU admission further in COVID-19 is warranted.
Factors affecting the COVID-19 risk in the US counties: an innovative approach by combining unsupervised and supervised learning
Authors: Ziyadidegan Samira , Razavi Moein , Pesarakli Homa , Javid Amirhossein , Erraguntla Madhav 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 disease spreads swiftly, and nearly three months after the first positive case was confirmed in China, Coronavirus started to spread all over the United States. Some states and counties reported high number of positive cases and deaths, while some reported lower COVID-19 related cases and mortality. In this paper, the factors that could affect the risk of COVID-19 infection and mortality were analyzed in county level. An innovative method by using K-means clustering and several classification models is utilized to determine the most critical factors. Results showed that mean temperature, percent of people below poverty, percent of adults with obesity, air pressure, population density, wind speed, longitude, and percent of uninsured people were the most significant attributes.
Bacterial and Fungal Co-Infections in Patients with COVID-19 Related Pneumonia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bedini Andrea , Menozzi Marianna , Cuomo Gianluca , Franceschini Erica , Orlando Gabriella , Santoro Antonella , Cozzi-Lepri Alessandro , Meschiari Marianna , Carli Federica , Puzzolante Cinzia , Milic Jovana , Monte Martina Del , gaetano Margherita Di , Bacca Erica , Franceschi Giacomo , Dolci Giovanni , Busani Stefano , Biagioni Emanuela , Tutone Marco , Sarti Mario , Girardis Massimo , Guaraldi Giovanni , Mussini Cristina 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background: The study analysed risk factors for bacterial and fungal co-infection in patients with COVID-19 and the impact on mortality.Methods: This is a single-center retrospective study conducted on 387 patients with confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia admitted to an Italian Tertiary-care hospital, between 21 February 2020 and 31 May 2020. Bacterial/fungal coinfection was determined by the presence of characteristic clinical features and positive culture results. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze risk factors for the development of bacterial/fungal co-infection after adjusting for demographic characteristics and comorbidities. Thirty-day survival of the patients with or without co-infections was analysed by Kaplan-Meier method.Results: In 53/387 (13.7%) patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, 67 episodes of bacterial/fungal co-infection occurred (14 presented >1 episode). Pneumonia was the most frequent co-infection (47.7%), followed by BSI (34.3%) and UTI (11.9%). S. aureus was responsible for 24 episodes (35.8%), E. coli for 7 (10.4%), P. aerugionsa and Enterococcus spp. for 5 episodes each (7.4%). Five (7.4%) pulmonary aspergillosis, 3 (4.4%) pneumocystosis and 5 (7.4%) invasive candidiases were observed. Multivariable analysis showed a higher risk of infection in patients with an age>65 years (csHR 2.680; 95%CI: 1.254 - 5.727; p=0.054), with cancer (csHR 5.243; 95%CI: 1.173-23.423; p=0.030), with a LOS>10 days (csHR 12.507; 95%CI: 2.659 – 58.830; p=0.001), early (within 48h) admitted in ICU (csHR 11.766; 95% CI: 4.353-31.804; p<0.001), and with a SOFA score>5 (csHR 3.397; 95% CI: 1.091 - 10.581; p=0.035). Estimated cumulative risk of developing at least 1 bacterial/fungal co-infection episode was of 15% and 27% after 15 and 30 days from admission, respectively. Kaplan-Meier estimated a higher cumulative probability of death in patients with bacterial/fungal co-infection (log-rank=0.031). Thirty-day mortality rate of patients with pneumonia was 38.7%, higher than those with BSI (30.4%).Conclusions: Bacterial and fungal infections are a serious complication affecting the survival of patients with COVID-19-related pneumonia. Some issues need to be investigated, such as the best empirical antibiotic therapy and the need for possible antifungal prophylaxis.
Beliefs Toward Smoking and COVID-19, and The Pandemic Impact on Smoking Behavior and Quit Intention: Findings from a Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Jordan
Authors: Al-Tammemi Ala'a B. , Barakat Muna , Al-Tamimi Doa’a B. , Alhallaq Sami A. , Hasan Dima M. Al , Khasawneh Ghena M. , Naqera Khalil Abu , Jaradat Raghad M. , Farah Fadi W. , Al-Maqableh Hindya O. , Abuawad Alaa , Othman Bayan , Tarhini Zeinab , Odeh Hamza , Khatatbeh Moawiah , Akour Amal , Aljaberi Musheer A. , Kolozsvári László Róbert 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background
The relationship between smoking and Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) is still topical with mixed epidemiological evidence. However, the pandemic may affect people’s beliefs towards smoking as well as smoking behavior and quit intentions. Considering high smoking rates in Jordan, our current study aimed to assess (i) the beliefs that surround smoking and COVID-19, (ii) the pandemic impact on smoking behavior and quit intention.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in Jordan utilizing an online questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised 13 items on sociodemographic, health, and smoking profiles, 14 items to assess beliefs surrounding COVID-19 and the use of combustible cigarettes (CC), waterpipe (WP), and electronic cigarettes (EC), and 12 items to assess the pandemic impact on smoking behavior and quit intention.
Results
Of 2424 survey respondents who participated in our study there were 1163 never-smokers, 1044 current smokers, and 217 ex-smokers. The mean age of participants was 35.2 years (SD:11.06). Most participants have shown anti-smoking beliefs with around 72.9% believed that WP smoking is related to the risk of contracting COVID-19. Also, 71.7% believed that smoking CC may worsen the COVID-19 clinical course, while 74.1% of respondents believed that smoking has no protective effect against COVID-19. During the pandemic, about 28.1% and 19.3% of current smokers reported increased or reduced smoking, respectively, and many smokers reported their willingness to quit smoking due to the pandemic.
Conclusion
Most participants reported anti-smoking beliefs and attitudes during the pandemic. Nevertheless, the double-edged effect of the pandemic on smoking habits should be carefully considered, and reliable anti-smoking measures should be strengthened and sustained in the country.
A Comprehensive Review on Hydrogels
Authors: Singh Inderbir , Rahman Md. Habibur , Chopra Hitesh , Kumar Sandeep , Bhattacharya Tanima , Akter Rokeya , Kabir Md. Tanvir 
Published: June 2021

Abstract:The conventional drug delivery systems have a long list of repeated dosing and toxicity issues. The hydrogels solve these issues as they minimize such activities and optimize therapeutic benefits. The hydrogels possess tunable properties that can withstand degradation, metabolism, and control release moieties. Some areas of applications of hydrogels involve wound healing, ocular systems, vaginal gels, scaffolds for tissue and bone engineering, etc. They comprise about 90% of the water that makes them suitable bio-mimic moiety. Here, we present an extensive review of various perspectives of hydrogels, along with their applications.