bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study on static lateral load–slip behavior of single-shear stapled connections in plywood for upholstered furniture frame construction
Authors: Hu Wengang , Zhang Jilei 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThe static lateral load–slip behavior of a single-shear plywood-to-plywood single-staple connection (SPSC) was investigated experimentally. A mechanics-based approach was used to develop mechanical models for deriving estimation equations for critical lateral loads of SPSCs based on failure modes of staple legs and connection member materials developed during static lateral loading process. Experimental results indicated that the static lateral load–slip behavior of SPSCs can be characterized with three major stages. This experiment provided the evidence that the ultimate lateral load capacity of SPSCs was partially governed by staple direct withdrawal load capacity in main members. The proposed mechanical models were verified experimentally as a valid means for deriving estimation equations for critical lateral loads of SPSCs evaluated in this study.
Tests of association based on genomic windows can lead to spurious associations when using genotype panels with heterogeneous SNP densities
Authors: Li Jinghui , Wang Zigui , Fernando Rohan , Cheng Hao 
Published: May 2021

AbstractDense single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) panels are widely used for genome-wide association studies (GWAS). In these panels, SNPs within a genomic segment tend to be highly correlated. Thus, association studies based on testing the significance of single SNPs are not very effective, and genomic-window based tests have been proposed to address this problem. However, when the SNP density on the genotype panel is not homogeneous, genomic-window based tests can lead to the detection of spurious associations by declaring effects of genomic windows that explain a large proportion of genetic variance as significant. We propose two methods to solve this problem.
PTMViz: a tool for analyzing and visualizing histone post translational modification data
Authors: Chappell Kevin , Graw Stefan , Washam Charity L. , Storey Aaron J. , Bolden Chris , Peterson Eric C. , Byrum Stephanie D. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
Histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) play an important role in our system by regulating the structure of chromatin and therefore contribute to the regulation of gene and protein expression. Irregularities in histone PTMs can lead to a variety of different diseases including various forms of cancer. Histone modifications are analyzed using high resolution mass spectrometry, which generate large amounts of data that requires sophisticated bioinformatics tools for analysis and visualization. PTMViz is designed for downstream differential abundance analysis and visualization of both protein and/or histone modifications.

Results
PTMViz provides users with data tables and visualization plots of significantly differentiated proteins and histone PTMs between two sample groups. All the data is packaged into interactive data tables and graphs using the Shiny platform to help the user explore the results in a fast and efficient manner to assess if changes in the system are due to protein abundance changes or epigenetic changes. In the example data provided, we identified several proteins differentially regulated in the dopaminergic pathway between mice treated with methamphetamine compared to a saline control. We also identified histone post-translational modifications including histone H3K9me, H3K27me3, H4K16ac, and that were regulated due to drug exposure.

Conclusions
Histone modifications play an integral role in the regulation of gene expression. PTMViz provides an interactive platform for analyzing proteins and histone post-translational modifications from mass spectrometry data in order to quickly identify differentially expressed proteins and PTMs.
CpGmotifs: a tool to discover DNA motifs associated to CpG methylation events
Authors: Scala Giovanni , Federico Antonio , Greco Dario 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
The investigation of molecular alterations associated with the conservation and variation of DNA methylation in eukaryotes is gaining interest in the biomedical research community. Among the different determinants of methylation stability, the DNA composition of the CpG surrounding regions has been shown to have a crucial role in the maintenance and establishment of methylation statuses. This aspect has been previously characterized in a quantitative manner by inspecting the nucleotidic composition in the region. Research in this field still lacks a qualitative perspective, linked to the identification of certain sequences (or DNA motifs) related to particular DNA methylation phenomena.

Results
Here we present a novel computational strategy based on short DNA motif discovery in order to characterize sequence patterns related to aberrant CpG methylation events. We provide our framework as a user-friendly, shiny-based application, CpGmotifs, to easily retrieve and characterize DNA patterns related to CpG methylation in the human genome. Our tool supports the functional interpretation of deregulated methylation events by predicting transcription factors binding sites (TFBS) encompassing the identified motifs.

Conclusions
CpGmotifs is an open source software. Its source code is available on GitHub https://github.com/Greco-Lab/CpGmotifs and a ready-to-use docker image is provided on DockerHub at https://hub.docker.com/r/grecolab/cpgmotifs.
Population transcriptomic sequencing reveals allopatric divergence and local adaptation in Pseudotaxus chienii (Taxaceae)
Authors: Liu Li , Wang Zhen , Su Yingjuan , Wang Ting 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
Elucidating the effects of geography and selection on genetic variation is critical for understanding the relative importance of adaptation in driving differentiation and identifying the environmental factors underlying its occurrence. Adaptive genetic variation is common in tree species, especially widely distributed long-lived species. Pseudotaxus chienii can occupy diverse habitats with environmental heterogeneity and thus provides an ideal material for investigating the process of population adaptive evolution. Here, we characterize genetic and expression variation patterns and investigate adaptive genetic variation in P. chienii populations.

Results
We generated population transcriptome data and identified 13,545 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 5037 unigenes across 108 individuals from 10 populations. We observed lower nucleotide diversity (π = 0.000701) among the 10 populations than observed in other gymnosperms. Significant negative correlations between expression diversity and nucleotide diversity in eight populations suggest that when the species adapts to the surrounding environment, gene expression and nucleotide diversity have a reciprocal relationship. Genetic structure analyses indicated that each distribution region contains a distinct genetic group, with high genetic differentiation among them due to geographical isolation and local adaptation. We used FST outlier, redundancy analysis, and latent factor mixed model methods to detect molecular signatures of local adaptation. We identified 244 associations between 164 outlier SNPs and 17 environmental variables. The mean temperature of the coldest quarter, soil Fe and Cu contents, precipitation of the driest month, and altitude were identified as the most important determinants of adaptive genetic variation. Most candidate unigenes with outlier signatures were related to abiotic and biotic stress responses, and the monoterpenoid biosynthesis and ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis KEGG pathways were significantly enriched in certain populations and deserve further attention in other long-lived trees.

Conclusions
Despite the strong population structure in P. chienii, genomic data revealed signatures of divergent selection associated with environmental variables. Our research provides SNPs, candidate unigenes, and biological pathways related to environmental variables to facilitate elucidation of the genetic variation in P. chienii in relation to environmental adaptation. Our study provides a promising tool for population genomic analyses and insights into the molecular basis of local adaptation.
Growth inhibition of Spodoptera frugiperda larvae by camptothecin correlates with alteration of the structures and gene expression profiles of the midgut
Authors: Shu Benshui , Zou Yan , Yu Haikuo , Zhang Wanying , Li Xiangli , Cao Liang , Lin Jintian 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
Spodoptera frugiperda is a serious pest that causes devastating losses to many major crops, including corn, rice, sugarcane, and peanut. Camptothecin (CPT) is a bioactive secondary metabolite of the woody plant Camptotheca acuminata, which has shown high toxicity to various pests. However, the effect of CPT against S. frugiperda remains unknown.

Results
In this study, bioassays have been conducted on the growth inhibition of CPT on S. frugiperda larvae. Histological and cytological changes were examined in the midgut of larvae fed on an artificial diet supplemented with 1.0 and 5.0 µg/g CPT. The potential molecular mechanism was explored by comparative transcriptomic analyses among midgut samples obtained from larvae under different treatments. A total of 915 and 3560 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from samples treated with 1.0 and 5.0 µg/g CPT, respectively. Among the identified genes were those encoding detoxification-related proteins and components of peritrophic membrane such as mucins and cuticle proteins. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses indicated that part of DEGs were involved in DNA replication, digestion, immunity, endocrine system, and metabolism.

Conclusions
Our results provide useful information on the molecular basis for the impact of CPT on S. frugiperda and for future studies on potential practical application.
Correlation of exhaled propofol with Narcotrend index and calculated propofol plasma levels in children undergoing surgery under total intravenous anesthesia - an observational study
Authors: Heiderich Sebastian , Ghasemi Tara , Dennhardt Nils , Sümpelmann Robert , Rigterink Vanessa , Nickel Katja , Keil Oliver , Böthig Dietmar , Beck Christiane E. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
Exhaled propofol concentrations correlate with propofol concentrations in adult human blood and the brain tissue of rats, as well as with electroencephalography (EEG) based indices of anesthetic depth. The pharmacokinetics of propofol are however different in children compared to adults. The value of exhaled propofol measurements in pediatric anesthesia has not yet been investigated. Breathing system filters and breathing circuits can also interfere with the measurements. In this study, we investigated correlations between exhaled propofol (exP) concentrations and the Narkotrend Index (NI) as well as calculated propofol plasma concentrations.

Methods
A multi-capillary-column (MCC) combined with ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) was used to determine exP. Optimal positioning of breathing system filters (near-patient or patient-distant) and sample line (proximal or distal to filter) were investigated. Measurements were taken during induction (I), maintenance (M) and emergence (E) of children under total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). Correlations between ExP concentrations and NI and predicted plasma propofol concentrations (using pediatric pharmacokinetic models Kataria and Paedfusor) were assessed using Pearson correlation and regression analysis.

Results
Near-patient positioning of breathing system filters led to continuously rising exP values when exP was measured proximal to the filters, and lower concentrations when exP was measured distal to the filters. The breathing system filters were therefore subsequently attached between the breathing system tubes and the inspiratory and expiratory limbs of the anesthetic machine. ExP concentrations significantly correlated with NI and propofol concentrations predicted by pharmacokinetic models during induction and maintenance of anesthesia. During emergence, exP significantly correlated with predicted propofol concentrations, but not with NI.

Conclusion
In this study, we demonstrated that exP correlates with calculated propofol concentrations and NI during induction and maintenance in pediatric patients. However, the correlations are highly variable and there are substantial obstacles: Without patient proximal placement of filters, the breathing circuit tubing must be changed after each patient, and furthermore, during ventilation, a considerable additional loss of heat and moisture can occur. Adhesion of propofol to plastic parts (endotracheal tube, breathing circle) may especially be problematic during emergence.

Trial Registration
The study was registered in the German registry of clinical studies (DRKS-ID: DRKS00015795).
Anaesthesia and orphan disease: management of a case of Nicolaides-Baraitser syndrome undergoing cleft palate surgery
Authors: Goehring Marie , Choorapoikayil Suma , Zacharowski Kai , Messroghli Leila 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
Nicolaides-Baraitser syndrome (NCBRS) is a rare disease caused by mutations in the SMRCA2 gene, which affects chromatin remodelling and leads to a wide range of symptoms including microcephaly, distinct facial features, recurrent seizures, and severe mental retardation. Until now, less than 100 cases have been reported.

Case presentation
A 22-month old male infant with NCBRS underwent elective cleft palate surgery. The anaesthetists were challenged by the physiological condition of the patient: narrow face, very small mouth, mild tachypnea, slight sternal retractions, physical signs of partial monosomy 9p, and plagiocephalus, midface hypoplasia, V-shaped cleft palate, enhanced muscular hypotension, dysplastic kidneys (bilateral, estimated GFR: approx. 40 ml/m2), nocturnal oxygen demand, and combined apnea. In addition, little information was available about interaction of the NCBRS displayed by the patient and anaesthesia medications.

Conclusions
The cleft palate was successfully closed using the bridge flap technique. Overall, we recommend to perform a trial video assisted laryngoscopy in the setting of spontaneous breathing with deep inhalative anaesthesia before administration of muscle relaxation to detect any airway difficulties while remaining spontaneoues breathing and protective reflexes.
Current trends in optimal medical therapy after PCI and its influence on clinical outcomes in China
Authors: Zhang Jian , Hao Jing-Yan , Jing Rui , Liu Jing-Jing , Di Cheng-Ye , Lu Yu-Jie , Gao Peng , Wang Ya-Jie , Yang Rui-Fei , Lin Wen-Hua 
Published: May 2021

AbstractBackgroundLimited data were available on the current trends in optimal medical therapy (OMT) after PCI and its influence on clinical outcomes in China. We aimed to evaluate the utilization and impact of OMT on the main adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) in post-PCI patients and analyzed the factors predictive of OMT after discharge.MethodsWe collected data from 3812 individuals from 2016.10 to 2017.09 at TEDA International Cardiovascular Hospital. They were classified into an OMT group and a non-OMT group according to their OMT status, which was defined as the combination of dual antiplatelet therapy, statins, β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers after PCI. Multivariable Cox regression models were developed to assess the association between OMT and MACCEs, defined as all-cause mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and target vessel revascularization. A logistic regression model was established to analyze the factors predictive of OMT.ResultsOur results revealed that the proportion of patients receiving OMT and its component drugs decreased over time. A total of 36.0% of patients were still adherent to OMT at the end of follow-up. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that baseline OMT (P < 0.001,OR = 52.868) was the strongest predictor of OMT after PCI. The Cox hazard model suggested that smoking after PCI was associated with the 1-year risk of MACCE (P = 0.001,HR = 2.060, 95% CI 1.346–3.151), while OMT (P = 0.001,HR = 0.486, 95% CI 0.312–0.756) was an independent protective factor against postoperative MACCEs.ConclusionsThere was still a gap between OMT utilization after PCI and the recommendations in the evidence-based guidelines. Sociodemographic and clinical factors influence the application of OMT. The management of OMT and smoking cessation after PCI should be emphasized.
Socioeconomic differentials in trends in the prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension and hypertension awareness, treatment, and control in rural Southwestern China
Authors: Fan Lu-Ming , Wang Fang , Zhao Min , Cui Wen-Long , Cai Le 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
This study examines the socioeconomic differentials in trends in the prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension and hypertension awareness, treatment, and control in rural Southwestern China.

Methods
Two cross-sectional interviews and health examination surveys were administered in rural Yunnan Province, including 6,350 consenting participants in 2009 and 6,359 consenting participants in 2016 (aged ≥ 35 years). Participant demographics, socioeconomic status (SES), and ethnicity, along with information about hypertension awareness, treatment, and control, were collected using similar questionnaires in the two surveys. The participants’ blood pressure levels were also measured.

Results
From 2009 to 2016, the prevalence of hypertension substantially increased from 28.4% to 39.5% (P < 0.01), and awareness and control rose from 42.2 and 25.8% to 53.1 (P < 0.01) and 30.6% (P < 0.05), respectively. Although people with a higher education level also had higher awareness and control rates than the lower education level ones, there were no conspicuous differences in the improvement of awareness and control between publics with different education levels over the 7 years studied. Increases were observed in both rates of awareness and control in people with a high level of income (P < 0.01). However, only the awareness rate increased in participants with a low level of income. Furthermore, the prevalence (P < 0.01) and treatment (P < 0.05) of hypertension were higher in the Han people than in ethnic minorities.

Conclusions
Individual SES has clear associations with trends in the prevalence, awareness, and control of hypertension. Future interventions to improve hypertension prevention and control should be tailored to address individual SES.
Patient perspectives on tablet-based technology to collect risk factor information in primary care
Authors: Kosowan Leanne , Katz Alan , Halas Gayle , Singer Alexander 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
Primary care provides an opportunity to introduce prevention strategies and identify risk behaviours. Algorithmic information technology such as the Risk Factor Identification Tool (RFIT) can support primary care counseling. This study explores the integration of the tablet-based RFIT in primary care clinics to support exploration of patient risk factor information.

Methods
Qualitative study to explore patients’ perspectives of RFIT. RFIT was implemented in two primary care clinics in Manitoba, Canada. There were 207 patients who completed RFIT, offered to them by eight family physicians. We conducted one-on-one patient interviews with 86 patients to capture the patient’s perspective. Responses were coded and categorized into five common themes.

Results
RFIT had a completion rate of 86%. Clinic staff reported that very few patients declined the use of RFIT or required assistance to use the tablet. Patients reported that the tablet-based RFIT provided a user-friendly interface that enabled self-reflection while in the waiting room. Patients discussed the impact of RFIT on the patient-provider interaction, utility for the clinician, their concerns and suggested improvements for RFIT. Among the patients who used RFIT 12.1% smoked, 21.2% felt their diet could be improved, 9.3% reported high alcohol consumption, 56.4% reported less than 150 min of PA a week, and 8.2% lived in poverty.

Conclusion
RFIT is a user-friendly tool for the collection of patient risk behaviour information. RFIT is particularly useful for patients lacking continuity in the care they receive. Information technology can promote self-reflection while providing useful information to the primary care clinician. When combined with practical tools and resources RFIT can assist in the reduction of risk behaviours.
Mobile application for monitoring patients under home oxygen therapy: a protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Naranjo-Rojas Anisbed , Perula-de-Torres Luis Ángel , Cruz-Mosquera Freiser Eceomo , Molina-Recio Guillermo 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background
Mobile technologies have become capable of changing the paradigm of healthcare services. A clear example is that, nowadays, these technologies are an important instrument for data collection processes, epidemiologic surveillance, health promotion and disease prevention. Therefore, technological tools should be exploited to optimize the monitoring of patients with chronic diseases, including patients who require home oxygen therapy. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of a mobile application in the clinical monitoring of patients under home oxygen therapy.

Methods
This is a randomized controlled trial includes subjects of 18 years or older diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) who are under home oxygen therapy. Subjects will be divided into two arms: the intervention group will include patients who will be monitored with a mobile application, and the control group will include patients monitored by conventional follow-up methods (periodic visits of a respiratory therapist). The following outcome variables will be considered to measure the effect of the intervention: identification of dyspnea self-management, number of acute exacerbations associated with oxygen therapy, and the occurrence of oxygen supply underuse.

Discussion
This study is expected to assess the efficacy of a mobile application in the follow up of patients under home oxygen therapy. It will also determine whether the monitoring of a six-month intervention by a team comprising a physician, a nurse and respiratory therapists can decrease acute exacerbations, determine the most appropriate oxygen dose, and identify the underuse of oxygen systems and supplies.

Trial registration
The study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04820790; date of registration: March 29, 2021)