bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Over-expression of YTHDC2 Contributes to Progression of Prostate Cancer and Predicts Poor Outcome in Patients with Prostate Cancer
Authors: jukun song , You Ganhua , Yin Xinhai , Chen Weiming , Zhu Guohua , Wang Wei , Yu Yongwei , Zhu Jianguo
Published: October 2021

Objective: YTHDC2, a member of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) readers, has been reported to be closely associated with multiple cancer types. However, very little is known about YTHDC2 gene and its involvement in prostate cancer. Methods: YTHDC2 protein expression level was analyzed and correlated to clinical outcomes in prostate cancer patients who underwent prostatectomy in Guizhou Provinicial People’s Hospital. YTHDC2 expression level was also detected in prostate cancer cell lines and an immortalized prostate epithelial cell line BPH-1 and RWPE1 by qRT-PCR. Furthermore, we established stable cell lines (DU145 and PC-3) transfected with either empty vector or the full-length YTHDC2 gene and conducted cell function assays in vitro. Fisher’s exact test and Pearson χ2 test was employed, Kaplan-Meier method was used for the survival analysis.Result: Of 32 patient samples who enrolled in this study, YTHDC2 was significantly upregulated in PCa patients with higher Gleason score and Serum PSA level. YTHDC2 expression was significantly elevated in all PCa cell lines compared to BPH-1 and RWPE1 (all P<0.05). Functionally, the enforced expression of YTHDC2 markedly promoted cell growth, migration and invasion efficacies in prostate cancer cells.Conclusion: Our data indicate that YTHDC2 upregulation may be potentially associated with prognosis of prostate cancer patients. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered.
Fullerene Derivatives (CN-[OH]β) and Carbon Nanotubes Modelled as Transporters for Doxorubicin Drug in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Garalleh Hakim AL
Published: October 2021

Carbon nanomaterials have received increasing attention in drug delivery applications because of their distinct properties and structures, including large surface areas, high conductivity, low solubility in aqueous media, unique chemical functionalities and stability at the nano-scale size. Particularly, they have been used as nano-carriers and mediators for anticancer drugs such as, combination with Cisplatin, Camptothecin and Doxorubicin. Cancer has become the most challenging disease because its sophisticated therapy and classified as one of the top killers according to the World health organization records. The aim of the current work is to study and investigate the mechanism of combination between single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and the fullerene derivatives (C N -[OH] β ) as mediators, and anticancer drugs for photodynamic therapy directly to destroy the infected cells without damaging the normal ones. Here, we obtain a bio-medical model to determine the efficiency of usefulness of Doxorubicin (DOX) as an antitumor agent conjugated with SWCNTs with variant radii r and fullerene derivative (C N -[OH] β ). The two sub-models are obtained mathematically to evaluate the potential energy arising from the DOX-SWCNT and DOX-(C N -[OH] β ) interactions. DOX modelled as two-connected spheres, small and large, each interacting with different SWCNTs (variant radii r ) and fullerene derivatives C N -[OH] β , forming based on the number of carbon atoms (N) and the number of Hydroxide molecules (OH) ( β ), respectively.
Bioinformatic Analysis of lncRNA Mediated Competitive Endogenous RNA Network in Intestinal Ischemia/reperfusion Injury
Authors: Zhu Lin , Yang Xiao , Yao Zhiwen , Wang Ziyi , Lai Yupei , Xu Shiting , Liu Kexuan , Zhao Bingcheng
Published: October 2021

BackgroundRecently, an increasing number of studies have reported the roles of competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, which include the liver, kidney, heart, brain, and intestine. However, the functions and mechanisms of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which serve as ceRNA networks in intestinal I/R injury, are still unclear. MethodsIn this study, bioinformatics methods were used to filter and construct the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks in intestinal I/R injury. RNA expression data were retrieved from NCBI GEO datasets, the expression profiles between mouse small intestine with superior mesenteric artery occlusion and Sham operation was analyzed, and 189 microRNA differential expressed genes(miDEGs) were discovered successfully from miRNA GEO dataset (GSE83701). Next, targeted lncRNAs and mRNA in the database were matched based on miDEGs. Then, lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks were constructed with Cytoscape. The hub lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks were selected via Cytoscape plug-in CytoHubba and intersected mRNAs of datasets GSE96733 and GSE83701. Finally, the vital nodes of the ceRNA networks were validated by qPCR. ResultsThe 1700020114Rik/mmu-miR-7a-5p/Klf4 axis was postulated to play a potential role in intestinal I/R injury.ConclusionThe results shed novel insight into the molecular mechanism of ceRNA networks in intestinal I/R injury and highlighted the potential of 170002700020114Rik/mmu-miR-7a-5p/Klf4 ceRNA network in the prevention and treatment of intestinal I/R injury.
Synergetic Effect of Lipoprotein(a) and Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 on Functional Outcomes in Patients with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zheng Lemin , Jiang Xue , Xu Jie , Hao Xiwa , Xue Jing , Li Ke , Jin Aoming , Lin Jinxi , Meng Xia , Wang Yongjun
Published: October 2021

Background:The relationship of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and stroke functional outcomes was conflicting. The relationship of Lp(a) and Lp-PLA2 levels to functional outcomes is unclear. The aim was to clarify whether high Lp(a) is associated with poor functional outcomes and examine the relationship of Lp(a) and Lp-PLA2 to functional outcomes in patients with ischemic stroke.Methods：A total of 10,422 individuals from the third China National Stroke Registry cohort were recruited. Plasma level of Lp(a) at admission was measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The cut-off was set at the median for Lp(a). Functional outcome was assessed using the modified Rankin scale (mRS) at 3 months after stroke. The association between Lp(a) and stroke functional outcomes was evaluated using a multivariate Cox regression model.Results：The median age was 63.0 years, and 31.6% participants were women. Patients in higher Lp(a) group had higher incidences of poor functional outcome at 3 months (P<0.0001). In multivariate cox regression model, elevated Lp(a) levels were associated with poor functional outcomes at 3 months (Q4 vs. Q1: hazard ratio 1.39, 95% confidence interval 1.11-1.75). Subgroup analysis showed the significant effect of interaction of Lp-PLA2 level with Lp(a) level on functional outcomes (p=0.008). After stratification by Lp(a) and Lp-PLA2, the Lp(a) high/ Lp-PLA2 high group showed the highest incidence of poor functional outcomes at 3 months.Conclusions:Elevated Lp(a) level is associated with poor functional outcomes in patients with ischemic stroke. Lp(a) has a synergetic effect with Lp-PLA2 on functional outcomes after ischemic stroke.
Comparison of Left Lower Entrance and Traditional Laparoscopic Greater Omentum Resection for Stage I Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Le Aiwen , Yang Fan , Kang Kai , He Guna
Published: October 2021

Objective : To describe the surgical method, safety and convenience of " lower left entrance laparoscopic greater omentum resection" and evaluate its clinical application value for stage I ovarian cancer. Methods: 31 patients with early stage I ovarian cancer underwent with laparoscopic staging surgery adopted " lower left entrance laparoscopic omentum resection " as the observation group, and 29 cases underwent by conventional laparoscopy as control group. The intraoperative and postoperative indexes were compared. Results: During the greater omentum resection, there was no significant difference between two groups in the blood loss, but the operation time in observation group was significantly shorter than the control group. There was no difference in postoperative hospital stay、gastrointestinal exhaust time and postoperative severe complications.Conclusion: " lower left entrance laparoscopic greater omentum resection " may be a safe and effective technique in stage I ovarian cancer.
Promotion of in Vitro Hair Cell-like Cell Differentiation from Human Embryonic Stem Cells through the Regulation of Notch Signaling
Authors: Chen Fengjiao , Yang Ying , Chen Jianling , Tang Zihua , Peng Qian , Wang Jinfu , Ding Jie
Published: October 2021

Background Notch signaling mediates the committed induced differentiation of ear sensory cells and promotes the formation of a precise arrangement of mosaics between hair cells and supporting cells. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are pluripotent stem cells which have the potential to differentiate into cell lines through three germ layers. Therefore, it is necessary to study the effects of regulating Notch receptors and ligand expression on the in vitro differentiation equilibrium of hair cells and supporting cells from ESCs.Methods and Results The temporal ex-pression pattern of Notch ligands and receptors during in vitro hair cell-like cell differentia-tion from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) was detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Subsequently, pAJ-U6-shRNA-CMV-Puro/GFP recombinant lentiviral vectors, encoding short hairpin RNAs, were used to silence JAG-1, JAG-2, and DLL-1, according to the temporal expression pattern of Notch ligands. Then the effect of each ligand on the in vitro differentiation of hair cells was examined by RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).Conclusions Results showed that JAG-1 played an important role in regulating hESC differentiation to otic progenitors. The individual deletion of JAG-2 or DLL-1 had no significant effect on the differentiation of hair cell-like cells. Although the simultaneous inhibition of both DLL-1 and JAG-2 could increase the number of hair cell-like cells, it decreased the number of supporting cells.
Null Results for the Steal-Framing Effect on Out-Group Aggression
Authors: Mifune Nobuhiro
Published: October 2021

Whether intergroup conflict is a necessary condition for the evolution of human prosociality has been a matter of debate. At the center of the debate is the coevolutionary model of parochial altruism—that human cooperation with in-group members has coevolved with aggression toward out-group members. Studies using the intergroup prisoner’s dilemma–maximizing difference game to test the model have repeatedly shown that people do not exhibit out-group aggression, possibly because of an inappropriate operationalization and framing of out-group aggression. The coevolutionary model predicts out-group aggression when the actor understands that it will lead to the in-group’s benefit. However, in the game, such an aspect of out-group aggression that benefits the in-group is typically not well communicated to participants. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that out-group aggression in the game would be promoted by a framing that emphasizes that attacking out-group members enhances the in-group’s gain. Results of two laboratory experiments with 176 Japanese university students in total showed that such a framing did not promote out-group aggression and individuals invested more money to cooperate with in-group members only, avoiding the strategy of cooperating with in-group members to harm out-group members. These results do not support the coevolutionary model.
Metavirome Survey of Eight Ray-Finned Fishes Revealed Domination of Giant Viral Members of Pandoravirus and Megaviricetes
Authors: Askari Fatemeh Sana , Mohebbi Alireza
Published: October 2021

Background

Fishes are an essential source of food all around the world. The bulk of the microbial diversity in marine ecosystems is uncharacterized, with viruses accounting for most of the remaining diversity. This may be a major danger to public health, therefore knowing the variety of viruses in the marine ecosystem is critical. The goal was to assess the virome of ray-finned fishes in terms of variety and relation to human diseases.
Results

It was revealed that the viral kingdom was allocated 2,228,888 sequence reads. The pooled genome assay of the ray-finned fishes indicated a significant abundance of viruses in three clades of the genus Pandoravirus (31%), the order of Herepesvirales (23%), and the kingdom of Bamfordvirae (10%). Furthermore, 432281/2031445 reads (21%) of mapped reads were unassigned viruses. According to the GiantVirusFinder findings, 17931 hits (4.15$) were mapped to the genomes of known giantviruses.
Conclusion

Humans eat seafood regularly as one of their primary diets. Ray-finned fishes have a long evolutionary history and, as demonstrated here, are hosts to a variety of large DNA viruses. Fish must be screened for viral infections that are linked to human illnesses.
Bladder Cancer Biomarker Screening based on Non-targeted Urine Metabolomics
Authors: Li Jinkun , Cheng Bisheng , Zhan Chuanchuan , Li ShiPeng , Bai Peiming
Published: October 2021

Background: Bladder cancer is one of the most common malignancies of the urinary system, and its screening relies heavily on invasive cystoscopy, which increases the risk of urethral injury and infection. This study aims to use non-targeted metabolomics approaches to screen the metabolites that are expressed significantly differently from the urine of bladder cancer patients and the cancer-free controls. Methods and Results: This study performed non-targeted metabolomic analysis and metabolite identification on the urine of bladder cancer patients (n=57) and the cancer-free controls (n=38) using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analyzer. The results showed that there were significant differences in the expression of 27 metabolites between bladder cancer patients and the cancer-free controls. Conclusions: In the multivariate statistical analysis of this study, the urinary metabolic profile data of bladder cancer patients are analyzed, and the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis shows that it is possible to perform non-invasive clinical diagnoses of bladder cancer through these candidate biomarkers.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Assistive Framework for Disabled Persons
Authors: Talha Muhammad , Panhwar Muhammad Aamir , Memon Kamran Ali , A Abbasi , Panhwar Ghazala
Published: October 2021

Robot programming by demonstration (PbD) enables human users to teach the robot and increases its capabilities by interactive teaching without having to manually program the robot. PbD combined with intelligent machine learning algothrims can help us to develop autonomous robots for various industrial and domestic tasks. One such task is the pouring of liquids from bottle into the cup/glass. In this paper the first step is to teach the robot liquid pouring task by the human user in order to facilitate physically disabled people in making various types of drinks and then dataset is created from the user taken demonstrations. In training stage the dataset obtained is feed to the decision-making algorithm based on reinforcement learning. The algorithm enables the robot to learn to pour different liquids under different pouring conditions with the help of minimum number of human user demonstrations needed for the learning of task. The acquired results show that the robot can learn to pour different liquids and is able to accurately adapt to different pouring conditions by using reward-based system and online feedback. Furthermore the results show that the proposed framework can work with different types of liquid and container sizes without any further need for reprogramming or demonstrations.
Polydopamine Nanoparticles Attenuate Retina Ganglion Cell Degeneration and Restore Visual Function After Optic Nerve Injury
Authors: Lou Xiaotong , Hu Yuanyuan , Zhang Hong , Liu Jia , Zhao Yin
Published: October 2021

Background: Oxidative stress contributes to retina ganglion cells (RGCs) loss in variety of ocular diseases, including ocular trauma, ocular vein occlusion, and glaucoma. Scavenging the excessed reactive oxygen species (ROS) in retinal neurovascular unit could be beneficial to RGCs survival. In this study, a polydopamine (PDA)-based nanoplatform is developed to protect RGCs. Results: The PDA nanoparticles efficiently eliminate multi-types of ROS, protect endothelia and neuronal cells from oxidative damage, and inhibit microglia activation in retinas. In an optic nerve crush (ONC) model, single intravitreal injection of PDA nanoparticles could significantly attenuate RGCs loss via eliminating ROS in retinas, reducing the inflammatory response and maintaining barrier function of retinal vascular endothelia. Comparative transcriptome analysis of the retina implied that PDA nanoparticles improve RGCs survival probably by altering the expression of genes involved in inflammation and ROS production. Importantly, as a versatile drug carrier, PDA nanoparticles could deliver brimonidine (a neuroprotection drug) to synergistically attenuate RGCs loss and promote axon regeneration, thus restore visual function. Conclusions: the PDA nanoparticle-based therapeutic nanoplatform displayed excellent performance in ROS elimination, providing a promising probability for treating retinal degeneration diseases.
Exciton Condensation in an Atomically-thin MoS2 Semiconductor
Authors: Xiong Qihua , Aguila Andres Granados del , Wong Yi , Liu Xue , Fieramosca Antonio , Do T. Thu Ha , Battiato Marco
Published: October 2021

Condensation of a dilute Bose gas of excitons (coupled electron-hole pairs) in a direct bandgap semiconductor was first theoretically predicted in 19681. This exotic state of matter is expected to exhibit spectacular non-linear properties, such as superradiance and superfluidity. However, direct experimental observation of condensation of optically active excitons in conventional semiconductors has been hindered by their short lifetimes and weak collective excitonic interactions. Here, we have experimentally realized the condensation of short-lived excitons in a direct-bandgap, atomically-thin MoS2 semiconductor. The signature is the anomalous transport of the fast-expanding exciton density, originating from a thermalized dilute gas generated under the laser spot. Below the critical temperature Tc~150 K, the exciton liquid propagates over ultra-long distances (at least 60 micrometers) with record speed in a solid-state system of 1.8*10^7 m/s (~6% the speed of light), fuelled by the unconventionally strong repulsions among excitons. The condensation is controlled by many-body interactions in the gas mixture of excitons (bosons) and free-carriers (fermions) via an electrical backgate. Our results demonstrate electrostatic doping as a simple approach for the investigation of correlated states of matter at high-temperatures, excitonic circuitry and spin-valley Hall devices mediated by exciton superfluids in semiconducting monolayers.
Comprehensive Treatment of Mediastinal Neuroendocrine Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: Yu Qi , Li Zhen , Han Xinwei
Published: October 2021

Neuroendocrine tumors in the mediastinum are relatively rare. We report a patient with mediastinal neuroendocrine tumor that was successfully resected after descending stage by drug-eluting embolic transcatheter arterial chemoembolization had been performed. No tumor recurrence was found in the 1-year follow-up after surgical resection.
Enhanced the Synergistic Effect of Tetracycline Adsorption and Photocatalytic Degradation on a Novel Mesoporous Carbon Nitride
Authors: Liu zheng , Ding Hekun , He Xiao , Wang Dongbo , Ma Dachao , Feng Qingge
Published: October 2021

A novel mesoporous g-C3N4 with guanidine hydrochloride as precursor was prepared by molten salt assisted hard template of silica (SiO2) aerogel for photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline (TC). The textural structure, chemical composition, morphology and optical properties of mesoporous g-C3N4 were characterized by a series of means, and the synergistic effect of adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of TC was elucidated. The results show that the successfully synthesized mesoporous g-C3N4 presented a coral-like rod shaped and heptazine ring structure. When the amount of SiO2 aerogel template was 1.4 g, the richer nitrogen defects of the sample (GM-1.4) with the lower band gap (2.42 eV) was displayed.The photocatalytic degradation rate of GM-1.4 for TC was reached to 83.4% under visible illumination for 120 min. Furthermore, the •O2- and h+ were proved to be the main active species, and the reasons of TC photodegradation were associated with the destruction of TC molecular structure.
Isotope-dilution LC-MS/MS Analysis of the Elastin Crosslinkers Desmosine and Isodesmosine in Acute Cerebral Stroke Patients
Authors: Mikagi Ayame , Tashiro Ryosuke , Inoue Tomoo , Anzawa Riki , Imura Akiho , Tanigawa Takahiro , Ishida Tomohisa , Inoue Takashi , Niizuma Kuniyasu , Tominaga Teiji , Usuki Toyonobu
Published: October 2021

We chemically synthesized an isotopically labeled internal standard, isodesmosine-13C3,15N1, and established an isotope-dilution LC-MS/MS method. Plasma concentrations of desmosine and isodesmosine in acute cerebral stroke patients and healthy controls were determined. The desmosine concentration was markedly higher in plasma from acute stroke patients compared with healthy controls. Desmosines are novel biomarkers for evaluating the extent of vascular injury after acute cerebral stroke.
WITHDRAWN: Delivery of Sorafenib and Metformin Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Amphiphilic Polypeptide-based Micelles
Authors: Cao Lanqing , Xu Guangmeng , He Hongyu , Li Jiannan
Published: October 2021

Hepatoma is a common clinical disease with poor prognosis and a high recurrence rate. Chemotherapy is important for hepatoma treatment because only a small amount of hepatoma patients are suitable for local resection, and the effects of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) are unsatisfactory. But many limitations restrict further application of chemotherapy. In this study, sorafenib (Sor) and metformin (Met) co-loaded poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(L-glutamic acid-co-L-phenylalanine) (mPEG-b-P(Glu-co-Phe)) micelles were developed. Sor is a common molecular target agent which can inhibit the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway to treat hepatoma clinically. Met can also regulate the MAPK pathway and inhibit the expression of the phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK). Moreover, both Sor and Met play important roles in cell cycle arrest. The integration of these two drugs aims to achieve synergistic effects against hepatoma. The micelles can be targeted to cancer cells and possess longer blood circulation time. The two agents can be released rapidly in the tumor sites. Both orthotopic and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) hepatoma models were developed to analyze the treatment efficacy of the Sor and Met loaded micelles. The in vivo study showed that the micelles can prevent hepatoma progression by inhibiting the expressions of p-ERK and cyclin D1. This study indicated that the Sor/Met-loaded micelles are suitable for hepatoma treatment.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide‐Wrapped Polyaniline Nanorods As An Active Nanocomposite For Improved ﻿Photocurrent Generation And Photocatalytic And Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Fenniche Fares , Henni Abdellah , Khane Yasmine , Aouf Djaber , Harfouche Nessrine , Bensalem Soufiane , Zerrouki Djamal , Belkhalfa Hakim
Published: October 2021

This study depicts the electrochemical synthesis of nanocomposites basede on Polyaniline nanorods wrap with reduced graphene oxide (PANI-rGO) on ITO substrates. Synthesis of PANI-rGO nanocomposites was elaborated by the incorporation of rGO in PANI thin films during electropolymerization in the presence of sulfuric acid. The synthesis of reduced graphene oxide was by modification on the well-known Hammer's method. The thin films nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), UV–Visible and electrochemical photocurrent spectroscopy. FESEM revealed the formation of PANI nanorods with diameters between 50 and 150 nm. The XPS was employed to confirm the compositions of PANI-rGO nanocomposites. From photoelectrochemical results, the generated photocurrent was improved in the presence of rGO in PANI Nanorods. Whereas, experimental findings show that the introduction of rGO into PANI improved the photo response from 7 µA.cm-2 to 13 µA.cm-2. Integration of 3D rGO in PANI results in better photocatalytic performance for the degradation of Congo Red. The enhanced photocatalytic activity with presence of rGO revealed the good potential of PANI-GO nanocomposites for dye degradation. The effective removal of congo red up to 90% has been observed in acidic medium and is acceptable results compared to the surface area of the substrate. At optimum conditions, also the nature of the antibacterial activities has been investigated by ITO/PANI and ITO/PANI-rGO thin films, and the results have showed exhibited antibacterial activity against the growth of E.coli gram-negative bacteria.
Predictive role of lymphoscintigraphy undergoing lymphovenous anastomosis in patients with lower extremity lymphedema
Authors: Kwon Hye Ryeong , Hwang Ji Hye , Mun Goo-Hyun , Hyun Seung Hyup , Moon Seung Hwan , Lee Kyung-Han , Choi Joon Young
Published: October 2021

Background

We investigated whether preoperative lymphoscintigraphy could predict the treatment response of unilateral lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) in patients with lower extremity lymphedema.
Materials and methods

A total of 17 patients undergoing lymphoscintigraphy subsequent to LVA was included. As qualitative lymphoscintigraphic indicators, ilioinguinal lymph node uptake, main lymphatic vessel, collateral vessel, and dermal backflow pattern were evaluated. Lymph node uptake ratio, extremity uptake ratio, and injection site clearance ratio were obtained as quantitative lymphoscintigraphic indicators at 1 and 2-h after injection. To evaluate therapy response, the volume difference ratio of the whole leg at 3 months (early response) and 1 year (late response) was measured.
Results

The group with whole leg dermal backflow had a greater volume change than the other groups (p=0.047). The group with dermal backflow in the whole leg OR only in the distal part had a higher rate of volume reduction than the group with dermal backflow only in the proximal part OR absent (p=0.050). The 2-h extremity uptake ratio was the only indicator that positively correlated with early and late volume difference ratio (p=0.016, p=0.001). The rate of volume decrease at 1 year was high in patients with high 2-h extremity uptake ratio (p=0.027). As the amount of dermal backflow increases, the postoperative therapeutic effect increases (p=0.040).
Conclusions

Preoperative lymphoscintigraphy is useful to predict both early and late therapy response in patients with lower extremity lymphedema undergoing LVA. Both dermal backflow pattern and extremity uptake ratio may be predictive lymphoscintigraphic indicators.
Epigenetic-dysregulated lncRNAs in Prostate Cancer Based on Multi-omics Analysis
Authors: Zheng Jianxiao , Xiang Xuexiao , Xu Zhipeng , Xu Yangjing , Huang Xiaowei , Su Huafang
Published: October 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) expression and epigenetic changes, and explore the prognostic value of these findings in patients with prostate cancer. Methods: In this study, we systematically compared the histone modification and methylation regions on lncRNAs promoter and enhancer elements by multiomics. We analyzed the distribution characteristics of histone modified apparent lncRNAs promoters and enhancers in the genome. Single sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes (KEGG) were used to analyze the functional enrichment of epigenetic dysregulated lncRNAs. The prostate cancer associated lncRNAs were downloaded from lnc2cancer V3.0 and survival analysis was performed. Results: We found 1124 epigenetic-dysregulated lncRNAs (epi-lncRNAs) and 9734 epigenetic-dysregulated protein coding genes (epi-PCGs) in prostate cancer, and the abnormal frequency of lncRNAs was much lower than that of PCGs. H3K4me3, H3K4me1, H3K27ac and H3K27me3 abnormally modified histones accounted for a large proportion and were mainly concentrated in the promoter region. Epigenetic abnormal lncRNAs affects the biological specific molecular function of prostate cancer by changing the abnormal modification of histone. The abnormal expression of lncRNAs caused by abnormal modification of H3K36me3 may be an important factor in the occurrence of prostate cancer. Finally, based on lncRNAs analysis of the prognosis of prostate cancer samples, three lncRNAs (HAR1A, SNHG12 and SNHG17) were identified as prognostic markers of prostate cancer.Conclusions: These findings may help to better understand the abnormal epigenetic regulation of lncRNAs expression in prostate cancer.
Antiemetic Prophylaxis for Chemoradiotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting (C-RINV) in Locally Advanced Head and Heck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: a Prospective Phase Ⅱ Trial
Authors: Wang Zekun , Liu Wenyang , Zhang Jianghu , Chen Xuesong , Wang Jingbo , Wang Kai , Qu Yuan , Huang Xiaodong , Luo Jingwei , Xiao Jianping , Xu Guozhen , Gao Li , Yi Junlin , Zhang Ye
Published: October 2021

Background There is sparse research reporting effective interventions for preventing nausea and emesis caused by concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC). This phase Ⅱ trial was conducted to provide the direct evidence for the current practice of prescribing antiemetic in patients with LA-HNSCC receiving CCRT.Methods Treatment-naïve LA-HNSCC patients received intensity-modulated radiotherapy with concomitant cisplatin 100 mg/m² every 3 weeks for two cycles. All patients were given orally aprepitant 125 mg once on d1, then 80mg once on d2-5; ondansetron 8 mg once on d1; and dexamethasone 12 mg once on d1, then 8mg on d2-5. The primary endpoint was complete response (CR). Pursuant to δ=0.2 and α=0.05, the expected CR rate was 80%. Results A total of 43 patients with LA-HNSCC were enrolled. The median age was 53 years old, and 86.0% were male. All patients received radiotherapy and 86.0% of patients completed both cycles as planned. The overall CR rate was 86.0% (95% CI: 72.1-94.7). The CR rates for cycles 1 and 2 were 88.4% (95% CI: 74.9-96.1) and 89.2% (95% CI: 74.6-97.0). The complete protection rate in the overall phase was 72.1% (95% CI: 56.3-84.7). The emesis-free response and nausea-free response in overall phase were 88.4% (95% CI: 74.9-96.1) and 60.5% (95% CI: 44.4-75.0), respectively. The adverse events related to antiemetics were constipation (65.1%) and hiccups (16.3%), but both were grade 1-2. There was no grade 4 or 5 treatment-related adverse event with antiemetic usage. Conclusion The addition of aprepitant into ondansetron and dexamethasone provided effective protection from nausea and emesis in patients with LA-HNSCC receiving radiotherapy and concomitant high-dose cisplatin chemotherapy. Randomised phase 3 studies are required to further define the potential role of NK1RA in chemoradiotherapy setting.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT03572829. Registered 28 June 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03572829?term=NCT03572829&draw=2&rank=1.
Projected future changes of tropical cyclone genesis frequency in the Northern Hemisphere based on a multi-timescale regression model
Authors: Zhao jiuwei , Zhan Ruifen , Wang Yuqing , Jiang Leishan , Huang Xin
Published: October 2021

Large uncertainties exist in the projected future TC genesis frequency (TCGF) due to the existence of various timescale internal climate variabilities and external forcing. Here, we introduce a statistical multi-timescale TCGF regression model, including contributions by three interannual modes, two interdecadal modes, and a global warming mode. The model is shown to be able to capture well the present-day multi-timescale changes in TCGF in the major TC basins in the Northern Hemisphere. The model results demonstrate that change in TCGF over the western North Pacific are predominantly modulated by internal climate variability while that over the eastern North Pacific is dominated by global warming and that over the North Atlantic is controlled about equally by the internal climate variability and global warming. Consistently, the model projects a significant increase over the eastern North Pacific and North Atlantic with insignificant trend over the western North Pacific.
Exploring Careers at Public Gardens: A Long-term Evaluation of The Morton Arboretum Public Horticulture Internship
Authors: Lobdell Matthew S.
Published: September 2021

A long-term evaluation of The Morton Arboretum’s Public Horticulture Internship Program was conducted. Of the 33 alumni of the internship between 2003 and 2019, 22 were contacted and asked to complete a survey and semistructured interview. Fourteen responded, representing interns who completed the program since 2003 though skewed somewhat toward more recent graduates. Results portrayed a well-received program that was generally effective in its goals. Forty-six percent of respondents were currently working in public gardens, including several in high-level administrative and leadership positions. Some that were not currently in the field pursued employment at public gardens, but were unsuccessful due to residing too far from a public garden, lack of available positions, failure to meet credential requirements of entry-level positions, or inability to earn a starting salary meeting their expectations. Others pursued adjacent green industry careers including environmental journalism or consulting. All respondents commented that the program provided effective exposure to public horticulture and careers at public gardens, although could be somewhat fast paced and overwhelming.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure Analysis of Wild Cymbidium tortisepalum Based on Chloroplast DNA in Yunnan Province of China
Authors: Ma Xiangli , Tang Min , Bi Yufen , Yang Junbo
Published: September 2021

Cymbidium tortisepalum is a primary orchid species in Yunnan Province, China, and has an extremely high ornamental and economic value. To reveal the levels and distribution of genetic variation and structure of wild C. tortisepalum resources, sequence variations of six chloroplast DNA intergenic spacers (psbM-trnD, trnV-trnA, accD-psal, rrn23, trnk-rps16, and ycf1) were analyzed in 404 wild individuals from 28 populations in the three river area in Yunnan Province, China. The results showed that the six chloroplast DNA sequences were aligned with 61 polymorphic sites, including 50 indels and 11 haplotypes in 404 individuals, which revealed a low level of genetic diversity (total genetic diversity = 0.240, and the average value of nucleotide diversity = 0.00024). In addition, a fairly low genetic differentiation [coefficients for genetic differentiation among populations (GST) = 0.099, number of substitution (NST) = 0.081] was found among the studied populations, and NST value was less than GST, which indicated that no significant phylogeographic structure existed in those populations. Furthermore, analysis of molecular variance revealed that great genetic variance (91%) came from individuals within the populations, which indicated that there was no clear genetic differentiation among populations. On the basis of these findings, a conservation plan was proposed to sample or preserve fewer populations but with more individuals from each population.
Cephalometric effects of the elastodontic appliance in managing skeletal Class II division 1 cases
Authors: Ciavarella Domenico , Campobasso Alessandra , Campa Roberta , Suriano Carmela , Illuzzi Gaetano , Cazzolla Angela Pia , Tepedino Michele
Published: October 2021

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate the cephalometric effects of the elastodontic appliance (EA) in the management of patients presenting with a skeletal Class II/1 malocclusion.

Methods

Twenty Class II patients treated using the EA (Group EA) were compared with 20 Class II untreated children (Group C). Cephalograms were compared at the start (T0) and after 24 months (T1) after which time, skeletal, dental, and aesthetic variables were evaluated. A statistical evaluation was conducted by applying an unpaired t-test for normally distributed variables.

Results

From T0 to T1, the EA group showed a significant increase in lower facial height (LFH), in mandibular length (Co-Gn), in the upper incisor and cranial plane angle (1 + SN) and in the distance between a true vertical line (TVL)-soft tissue B (B’) and TVL-soft tissue Pogonion (Pog’) points. From T0 to T1, group C showed a significant decrease in SN-occlusal plane (PO) (p < 0.01), of SN-mandibular plane (Go-Me) (p < 0.01) and of total gonial (N-Go-Me) angles (p < 0.05); a significant reduction of the distance between TVL-upper incisor (1+), TVL-lower lip (Li), and TVL-Pog’ was shown. No statistical differences were observed between the groups in dental and aesthetic outcomes, except for a skeletal increase in LFH (p < 0.05) and in Co-Gn length (p < 0.05), which was statistically significant in the EA group.

Conclusion

In Class II growing patients, the EA induces minor skeletal effects, compared to untreated control patients.
The effect of space maintainers on salivary pH, flow rate, and the oral microflora
Authors: Kizilci Esra , Arikan Volkan , Ozalp Nurhan , Ozcelik Berrin
Published: October 2021

Background

Space maintainers are used to preserve created space caused by the premature loss of primary teeth but they may also upset the oral environment and play a role in caries formation. The current research aimed to assess the impact of removable and fixed space maintainers on salivary pH, flow rate, and the oral microflora.

Methods

Thirty-eight patients aged between 4 and 10 years, each of whom required a fixed (n = 19) or removable space maintainer (n = 19), were enrolled in this research. The salivary pH, saliva flow rate, salivary Streptococcus mutans, and Lactobacillus counts were measured immediately prior to the placement of the space maintainers (baseline-T0) and during the follow-up period, at the 1st (T1), 3rd (T3), and 6th (T6) month. The Wilcoxon, Mann–Whitney U test and Friedman tests were applied for statistical analyses.

Results

Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus counts were significantly higher at the 6th month time period in comparison with the baseline scores for both groups (P < 0.001). The salivary pH and flow rates did not change significantly at any measurement period (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Space maintainers can favour caries formation by changing the oral microflora. It is advisable to warn patients and their parents of the risks and provide motivation to perform meticulous oral hygiene.
The efficacy of rapid palatal expansion on the eruption of impacted maxillary canine: a systematic review
Authors: Boonpratham Supatchai , Pariyatdulapak Natnicha , Poonpiriya Thongchai , Peanchitlertkajorn Supakit , Saengfai Nuntinee Nanthavanich
Published: October 2021

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the current literature on the effectiveness of rapid palatal expansion (RPE) in assisting the spontaneous eruption of impacted maxillary canines.

Materials and methods

Four electronic databases were searched (Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase) by applying appropriate Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). Two authors independently and systematically reviewed the literature. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective controlled clinical trials (pCCTs) were identified and selected. The Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool and the risk of bias in non-randomised studies of interventions (ROBINS-I) were used to assess the quality of the obtained articles. Spontaneous canine eruption was used as a primary outcome.

Results

Three RCTs and two pCCTs met the inclusion criteria. One study was assessed at a high risk of bias in the RCT group, while the remainder were at an unclear risk of bias. Both pCCTs were classified as a moderate risk of bias based on the ROBINS-I tool. The success rate of canine eruption following RPE, with or without additional treatment, ranged from 65.7 to 85.7%, which was statistically significantly different from the control group.

Conclusion

RPE appears to improve the position of displaced maxillary canines and increase the likelihood of spontaneous eruption. However, there is a shortage of high-quality evidence to conclude that RPE can be an effective treatment option for impacted maxillary canines.
Clinical Audit in a General Surgery Rotation: Responses and Professional Opinion of Participating House Officers
Authors: Huei Tan Jih , Novinth Kumar , Henry Tan Chor Lip
Published: October 2021

House officers (HOs) face numerous challenges to adapt to new working environment following months of unemployment. Several studies have addressed their psychological distress, and identified that general surgery is one of the most stressful rotation. In this current study, we intend to study their emotional responses when they are participating in clinical audit. The responses were assessed with Positive Affect and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS). Those who participated in the survey had more positive affect than negative affect. A small proportion of them had a sense of guilt and fear. HOs work far from original hometown and away from family members are having less positive affect. Appropriate measures to allow HOs to work close to family may improve work efficacy and emotional health.
Project-Based Learning Strategy for Teaching Molecular Biology: A Study of Students’ Perceptions
Authors: Elsamanoudy Ayman Z. , Fayez Fayza Al , Alamoudi Aliaa , Awan Zuhier , Bima Abdulhadi I. , Ghoneim Fatma M. , Hassanien Mohammed
Published: October 2021

This current study aims to analyse students’ perceptions regarding implementing project-based learning (PjBL) in teaching a molecular biology course to second-year pharmacy students at King Abdulaziz University as a sort of active student-centred learning method. Sixty-five male and 90 female students were enrolled in this study. This research used survey instruments to assess learners’ perceptions. The survey was divided into four sections that consisted of closedended questions to evaluate students’ overall perceptions of PjBL, communication skills, project management and teamwork activity during their project management process. A 5-point Likert scale was used. Regarding overall learning and students’ satisfaction with the PjBL experience, the percentage was 72.73%, with a score of 21.82 over 30. The percentage of students’ perceptions towards the improvement of their communication skills was 60.98%, with a score of 15.25 over 25. The percentage of students’ perceptions of project management skills was 64.97%, with a score of 12.99 over 20. Finally, regarding teamwork, the survey revealed a percentage of 71.81%, with a score of 43.08 over 60. There was a positive correlation between students’ perceptions of the questionnaire’s four parts and their grade point average (GPA) in the molecular biology course. It can be concluded that PjBL is an effective tool in the active-learning process. PjBL can improve students’ communication and management skills. Also, it encourages teamwork activities between students.
How to Prepare for the Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (UK) Part 2 Clinical Examination (Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills): An Exploratory Study
Authors: Henry Eugene S , Quinton Naomi
Published: October 2021

The Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills (PACES) examination is considered the most difficult component of the three-part Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) United Kingdom (UK) diploma, which provides budding physicians with access to a diverse pathway of subspecialties and a rewarding medical career. Preparing for the exam is onerous, especially when also juggling work and family demands. This research explored how candidates can prepare for this exam in an organised manner to improve their chances of first-pass success. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 participants in the West Yorkshire region in the UK who had passed the PACES examination within 24 months. The interviews were transcribed onto QSR NVivo software, coded reflexively and analysed using thematic analysis. The analysis identified 25 codes that were aggregated into the following themes according to their density; (a) mental conditioning, (b) clinical exposure, (c) external factors and support, (d) revision courses, (e) knowledge acquisition, (f) playing the objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) game, (g) change of strategy, and (h) novel methods. In summary, it takes more than just clinical exposure and rote learning to pass the exam; preparation involves a complex, multifaceted approach. With proper mental conditioning, organisational skills and confidence, the adverse effect of test anxiety could be reduced to improve chances of success. Peer learning is an effective tool for facilitating examination preparation among candidates, besides providing a supportive framework. Cues from this study could act as a guiding framework for future PACES candidates to further refine their study strategies.
Face-to-Face and Central Place: Covid and the Prospects for Cities
Authors: Reades Jonathan , Crookston Martin
Published: October 2021

This contribution looks at how great-city working life and business are increasingly oriented towards the activities in high-added-value trades and 'opaque' markets, where face-to-face interactions are still a vital part of what they offer. It argues that whilst the pandemic has undoubtedly
hit hard, its longer-term impacts should not be over-stressed: the world cities look set for continued dominance, centrality and scale will still be vital for the smaller conurbations, and the prospects for more peripheral locations may not be as positive as proponents of ex-urban flight might
anticipate.
Changing Work and Work-Related Travel and the Impact of Covid-19
Authors: Chatterjee Kiron , Crawford Fiona
Published: October 2021

The nature of work was undergoing dramatic change before the pandemic as the digital age continued to transform all sectors of society. In this paper we describe pre-pandemic trends in types of work, the workforce and working arrangements in the UK. We show how these changes were having
gradual yet significant impacts on commuting and other work-related travel which were apparent in national travel data series. Key features of these impacts were increasing diversification and flexibility in work travel. We bring together findings on how working practices and travel have been
altered by the pandemic and report expectations and opinions on its longer-term legacies. The pandemic has accelerated pre-pandemic trends and led to a shift in how work is performed for almost all sectors of the economy – but grasping the opportunity for this to contribute to deep carbon
reductions from transport and to improve equity and health outcomes will require carefully directed policy interventions.