bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic Prediction for Growth Using Low-Density SNP Panel in Dromedary Camels
Authors: Sani Morteza Bitaraf , Harofte Javad Zare , Banabazi Mohammad Hossein , Esmaeilkhanian Saeid , Naderi Ali Shafei , Salim Nader , Teimoori Abbas , Bitaraf Ahmad , Zadehrahmani Mohammad , Burger Pamela , Landi Vincenzo , Silawi Mohammad , Sheshdeh Afsaneh Taghipour , Faghihi Mohammad Ali
Published: November 2020

For thousands of years, camels have produced meat, milk, and fiber in harsh desert conditions. For a sustainable development to provide protein resources from desert areas, it is necessary to pay attention to genetic improvement in camel breeding. By using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) method we produced over 14,500 genome wide markers to conduct a genome- wide association study (GWAS) for investigating the birth weight, daily gain, and body weight of 96 dromedaries in the Iranian central desert. A total of 99 SNPs were associated with birth weight, daily gain, and body weight (p-value < 0.002). Genomic breeding values (GEBVs) were estimated with the BGLR package using (i) all 14,522 SNPs and (ii) the 99 SNPs by GWAS. Twenty-eight SNPs located in 36 candidate genes were associated with birth weight, daily gain, and body weight (p-value < 0.001). The accuracy of GEBVs was more than 0.65 based on all 14,522 SNPs, but the regression coefficients for birth weight, daily gain, and body weight were 0.39, 0.20, and 0.23, respectively. Because of low sample size, the GEBVs were predicted using the associated SNPs from GWAS. The accuracy of GEBVs based on the 99 associated SNPs was 0.62, 0.82, and 0.57 for birth weight, daily gain, and body weight. This report is the first GWAS using GBS on dromedary camels and identifies markers associated with growth traits that could help to plan breeding program to genetic improvement. Further researches using larger sample size and collaboration of the camel farmers and more profound understanding will permit verification of the associated SNPs identified in this project. The preliminary results of study show that genomic selection could be the appropriate way to genetic improvement of body weight in dromedary camels, which is challenging due to a long generation interval, seasonal reproduction, and lack of records and pedigrees.
Treatment Patterns and Outcomes in Older Women with Early Breast Cancer: A Population-Based Cohort Study in China
Authors: Liu Xu , Zheng Dan , Wu Yanqi , Luo Chuanxu , Fan Yu , Zhong Xiaorong , Zheng Hong
Published: November 2020

Background: Despite the proportion of elderly breast cancer patients has been consistently increasing, the optimal treatment modalities for this population have not been well explored. We summarized the treatment outcomes of these patients in our hospital.Methods: Older patients with early breast cancer were identified from the Breast Cancer Information Management System at West China Hospital, Sichuan University (2000-2019). We compared tumor characteristics and treatment outcomes between the control group (65-74 years old) and the elderly group (≥75 years old). The Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis were conducted to determine significant prognostic factors.Results: In total, 1094 patients were included. The median follow-up time for this cohort was 59 months. The majority of patients underwent surgery and benefited from surgical treatment. Elderly group patients were less likely to receive adjuvant chemotherapy or postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) compared to the control group. However, adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with improved overall survival (OS) (hazard ratio [HR] 0.521, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.284-0.955, P=0.035). Subgroup analysis revealed that patients with grade III disease best benefited from adjuvant chemotherapy. PMRT offered a significant improvement in local disease control, but not in OS. Furthermore, endocrine therapy improved the OS of HR-positive patients (HR 0.440, 95%CI 0.261-0.741, P=0.002), especially for cases aged 65-74 years. Also, receipt of trastuzumab in HER2-positive patients was associated with better OS (HR 0.168, 95%CI 0.029-0.958, P=0.045).Conclusions: Our findings suggest that surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, endocrine and targeted therapy are associated with improved OS in older breast cancer patients. Moreover, clinicopathological characteristics should be comprehensively considered when making treatment decisions for these patients.
Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency and Its Associated Risk Factors Among Rural Population of the Northern Part of the Persian Gulf
Authors: Marzban Maryam , Kalantarhormozi Mohammadreza , Mahmudpour Mehdi , Ostovar Afshin , Keshmiri Saeed , Darabi Amir , khajeian Abdolmohammad , Bolkheir Amirreza , Amini Azam , Nabipour Iraj
Published: November 2020

Background: Accumulating evidence indicates that vitamin D deficiency has been increased globally since the last two decades. However, the majority of these studies concerned on cities and there is scant information regarding the prevalence of vitamin D in rural areas. The main aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its associated risk factors among rural population in Bushehr province which has the longest border with the Persian Gulf.Methods: The rural inhabitants with ≥25 years old from three mountainous, plain, and seashore areas of Bushehr province were selected through a stratified multi-cluster random sampling method. After obtaining the participants’ demographic and anthropometric data and their past medical history, serum 25- hydroxy vitamin D was measured using ELISA.Results: A total of 1806 (means±SD, 46.30± 14.22 years old) rural subjects (34.84% males and 64.88%) participated in this study. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency and sufficiency were 27.87%, 50.39% and 21.74%, respectively. The deficiency of vitamin D in women was higher than men (OR=1.27, 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.54, P=0.040). There was a positive significant correlation between age and serum vitamin D levels. Men with vitamin D deficiency had higher BMI (P=0.008); this association was not observed among women (P=0.74). There was no significant difference between the food items consumption frequencies, and vitamin D status (P>0.05). The mountainous, and plain areas had the highest and lowest vitamin D levels, respectively.Conclusion: Although, Bushehr province is located in a sunny part of Iran, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was high among its rural population. The shift of their life styles patterns and rapid industrialization in these rural areas may be responsible. Therefore, the enrichment of dietary sources with vitamin D and the use of vitamin D supplements are recommended to tackle the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the rural population of the northern part of the Persian Gulf.
Bioconjugate Synthesis of NiFe2O4 Using Juglans Regia Leaves Extract: Phytochemical Analysis, Optical Activity, Removal of Ciprofloxacin and Congo Red From Water
Authors: TAJ Muhammad , Alkahtani Muneera , Raheel Ahmad , Shabbir Saima , Fatima Rida , Aroob Sadia , Noor Sadia , Ahmad Raja , Alshater Heba
Published: November 2020

In recent years, the biogenic synthesis of nanoparticle received enormous attention due to simple and eco-friendly path. Here in Jr.NiFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized first time using the leave extract of Juglans regia via a straightforward process. The physio and phytochemical analysis of plant confirm the presence of macromolecules which function as bio-reductant and stabilize the nanoparticles. The Jr.NiFe2O4 NPs were characterized by UV-visible, FTIR spectroscopy, PXRD pattern, SEM and TGA/ DTA analysis. The nanoparticles proved to be optically active having a value of indirect bandgap of energy in the range of 1.53 eV. Besides, the ciprofloxacin (CIP) and Congo red (CR) degradation ability of Jr.NiFe2O4 NPs were also discussed. It is seen that the highest degradation rate was acquired for CIP using pH = 3, at 254 nm, while 85 % of removal rate was analysed for CR. The kinetic studies in case of CR removal followed pseudo-first-order. Overall, these data recommend an innovative inspiring application of a plant-mediated synthesis of Jr.NiFe2O4 NPs.
Rapid and simple SNP genotyping for Bordetella pertussis epidemic strain MT27 based on a multiplexed single-base extension assay
Authors: Kamachi Kazunari , Yao Shu-Man , Chiang Chuen-Sheue , Koide Kentaro , Otsuka Nao , Shibayama Keigo
Published: November 2020

Multilocus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) is widely used for genotyping of Bordetella pertussis, the causative bacteria for pertussis. However, MLVA genotyping is losing its discriminate power because prevalence of the epidemic MT27 strain (MLVA-27) is increasing worldwide. To address this, we developed a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping method for MT27 based on multiplexed single-base extension (SBE) assay. A total of 237 MT27 isolates collected in Japan during 1999−2018 were genotyped and classified into ten SNP genotypes (SG1 to SG10) with a Simpson’s diversity index (DI) of 0.79 (95% CI, 0.76–0.82). Temporal trends showed a marked increase in the genotypic diversity in the 2010s: Simpson’s DI was zero in 1999–2004, 0.16 in 2005–2009, 0.83 in 2010–2014, and 0.76 in 2015–2018. This indicates that the SNP genotyping is applicable to the recently circulating MT27 strain. Additionally, almost all outbreak-associated MT27 isolates were classified into the same SNP genotypes for each outbreak. Multiplexed SBE assay allows for rapid and simple genotyping, indicating that the SNP genotyping can potentially be a useful tool for subtyping the B. pertussis MT27 strain in routine surveillance and outbreak investigations.
The Value of Cervical Node Features in Predicting Long-Term Survival of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma in Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy Era
Authors: Tian Yunming , Zeng Lei , Huang Runda , Lan Yuhong , Yuan Xia , Bai Li , Han Fei
Published: November 2020

The prognostic value of cervical node features in nasopharyngeal carcinoma(NPC) patients treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) was controversial. In this study, about 1752 patients after IMRT from 2008 to 2011 were recruited. The nodal features including the nodal number, maximize dimension diameter, extranodal extension(ENE)and cervical node necrosis(CNN) were retrospective analyzed. Univariate Cox and multivariate proportional hazard regression models were used to test the prognostic value of nodal features. Prognostic nomograms were built to predict the survival. The 10-year distant metastases free survival (DMFS) and disease-specific survival(DSS) rates were 86.5% and 80.8%. By multivariate analysis, the independent factors for the DSS were gender, age, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), CNN, ENE, T stage and N stage. Nomogram A (without nodal features ) and nomogram B (with nodal features) were built. The calibration curve for the probability of DSS showed good agreement between prediction by nomogram and actual observation.The C-index of nomogram B was higher than for nomogram A in predicting DSS ( 0.708 vs 0.676,P <.01). These results demonstrated the nodal features including the ENE and CNN were negative prognostic factors in patients with NPC, and the prognostic nomogram incorporating the nodal features was more accurate.
Development and Initial Validation of The Russian Version of The RAADS-14: A Self-Report Questionnaire to Assess Autistic Traits
Authors: Skorokhodov Ivan , Vergeles Ksenia , Skorokhodova Elena , Firsova Svetlana , Portnova Galina , Varlamov Anton
Published: November 2020

The aim of our research was to construct and validate a Russian version of the RAADS-14 (the RAADS-14 Rus), a brief self-report questionnaire designed for assessment of autistic traits, to provide a reference point in developing autism self-assessment tools in Russian-speaking population. The data were collected for 1724 participants, including a general sample of non-psychiatric young adults (n=849) and adults with ASD (n=49). Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the RAADS-14 Rus has the same factor structure as the original Swedish version yielding acceptable fit indices. The discriminating properties, however, were substantially worse than in the original study (AUC = .92 vs .99); it stems from higher mean RAADS-14 scores for the Russian control sample vs the original controls (mean = 13.9 vs 3.9) confirming prior anecdotal evidences of greater mean scores yielded by international ASD assessment tools on Russian-speaking populations. The correlations between the RAADS-14 Rus domain scores and the Big Five factors were similar to previously obtained findings. The results of the study indicate that the RAADS-14 Rus can be used for assessment of autistic traits and, with some reservations, as an ASD screening tool for adult Russian-speaking population. Further research is necessary to develop more precise screening tools.
Novel Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques Reveal Changed Metabolic Profiles in Recurrent Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis 
Authors: Müller-Deile Janina , Sarau George , Daniel Christoph , Jaremenko Christian , Kotb Ahmed M , Kalkhof Stefan , Rolle-Kampczyk Ulrike E , Christiansen Silke , Schiffer Mario
Published: November 2020

Idiopathic forms of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are caused by circulating permeability factors, which can lead early recurrence of FSGS and kidney failure after kidney transplantation. In the past three decades, many research endeavors were undertaken to identify these unknown factors. Even though some potential candidates have been recently discussed in the literature, “the” actual factor remains elusive. Therefore, there is an increased demand in FSGS research for the use of novel technologies that allow us to study FSGS from a yet unexplored angle. Here, we report the successful treatment of recurrent FSGS in a patient after living related kidney transplantation by removal of circulating factors with CytoSorb apheresis. Interestingly, the classical published circulating factors were all in normal range in this patient but early disease recurrence in the transplant kidney and immediate response to CytoSorb apheresis were still suggestive for pathogenic circulating factors. To proof the functional effects of the patient’s serum on podocytes and the glomerular filtration barrier we used a podocyte cell culture model and a proteinuria model in zebrafish to detect pathogenic effects on the podocytes actin cytoskeleton inducing a functional phenotype. We then performed Raman spectroscopy in the <50 kD serum fraction, on cultured podocytes treated with the FSGS serum and in kidney biopsies of the same patient at the time of transplantation and at the time of disease recurrence. The analysis revealed changes in podocyte metabolom induced by the FSGS serum as well as in focal glomerular and parietal epithelial cell regions in the FSGS biopsy. Several altered Raman spectra were identified in the fractionated serum and metabolome analysis by mass spectrometry detected lipid profiles in the FSGS serum, which were supported by disturbances in the Raman spectra. Our novel innovative analysis reveals changed lipid metabolome profiles associated with idiopathic FSGS that might reflect a new subtype of the disease.
Laryngeal Carcinoma Experimental Model Suggests The Possibility Of Tumor Seeding To Gastrostomy Site
Authors: Uloza Virgilijus , Kuzminienė Alina , Palubinskienė Jolita , Balnytė Ingrida , Ulozienė Ingrida , Valančiūtė Angelija
Published: November 2020

Some studies state that laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is associated with possible direct tumor cell seeding to percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) site. However, there is a lack of experimental proof that LSCC tumor tissue can adhere and grow in distant sites. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the growth pattern of LSCC implants on chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and evaluate possible associations between clinical course of the disease and behavior of experimentally implanted LSCC tumors. Our results show that implanted LSCC tissue survives on CAMs in 95% of cases while retaining essential morphologic characteristics and proliferative capacity of the original tumor. We identified the increased CAM vascularization, an infiltrative growth pattern of the implant and formation of distant isolated metastatic nodes on the CAMs. LSCC tumors with worse differentiation degree (G2 or G3) adhered to the experimental CAMs significantly better than G1. These results facilitate the understanding of tumor biology and allow presuming that dissemination and direct implantation of LSCC cells into the stomal wall during the pull PEG procedure might be possible.
A Novel Method for the Storage and Transport of Biological Samples of Mabs Prior to the Detection of Analytes Using ELISA
Authors: Wang Lei , Liu Lixiong , Hong Xiaoping , Liu Dongzhou , Cheng Zeneng
Published: November 2020

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have exhibited promising clinical applications in the diagnosis and treatment of some diseases. Prior to the detection of analytes using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, biological samples of mAbs are conventionally frozen at temperatures ranging from -20°C to -80°C to increase the stability of analytes. However, mAbs destabilization and aggregation may occur during the frozen storage or the freeze-thawing step. In this work, an effective method was proposed to freeze-dry mAbs samples to allow subsequent storage or transport of samples without freezing them. This new method was validated with quality control samples of adalimumab and etanercept, and it was also used in the bioanalysis of adalimumab and etanercept in pharmacokinetic (PK) studies. Adalimumab and etanercept were stable for 14 days at 4°C after being prepared and stored using the new method, with detection that was accurate and repeatable. Studies of adalimumab and etanercept in animals and humans showed that the PK parameters of the analytes stored with the new method were consistent with those of analytes stored using the conventional method. This effective method will be attractive for facilitating the storage and transport of plasma samples containing mAbs.
Differentiation of Mitragyna Speciosa, a Narcotic Plant, From Allied Mitragyna Species Using DNA Barcoding-high-resolution Melting (Bar-HRM) Analysis
Authors: Tungphatthong Chayapol , Urumarudappa Santhosh Kumar J , Awachai Supita , Sooksawate Thongchai , Sukrong Suchada
Published: November 2020

Mitragyna speciosa (Korth.) Havil. [MS], or “kratom” in Thai, is the only narcotic species among the four species of Mitragyna in Thailand, which also include Mitragyna diversifolia (Wall. ex G. Don) Havil. [MD], Mitragyna hirsuta Havil. [MH], and Mitragyna rotundifolia (Roxb.) O. Kuntze [MR]. M. speciosa is a tropical tree belonging to the Rubiaceae family and has been prohibited by law in Thailand. However, it has been extensively covered in national and international news, as its abuse has become more popular. M. speciosa is a narcotic plant and has been used as an opium substitute and traditionally used for the treatment of chronic pain and various illnesses. Due to morphological disparities in the genus, the identification of plants in various forms, including fresh leaves, dried leaf powder, and finished products, is difficult. In this study, DNA barcoding combined with high-resolution melting (Bar-HRM) analysis was performed to differentiate M. speciosa from allied Mitragyna and to assess the capability of Bar-HRM assays to identify M. speciosa in suspected kratom or M. speciosa-containing samples. Bar-HRM analysis of PCR amplicons was based on the ITS2, rbcL, trnH-psbA, and matK DNA barcode regions. The melting profiles of ITS2 amplicons were clearly distinct, which enabled the authentication and differentiation of Mitragyna species from allied species. This study reveals that DNA barcoding coupled with HRM is an efficient tool with which to identify M. speciosa and M. speciosa-containing samples and ensure the safety and quality of traditional Thai herbal medicines.
The σ54 System Directly Regulates Bacterial Natural Product Genes
Authors: Ma Muqing , Welch Roy , Garza Anthony
Published: November 2020

Bacterial-derived polyketide and non-ribosomal peptide natural products are crucial sources of therapeutic agents and yet little is known about the conditions that favor activation of natural product genes or the regulatory machinery that controls their transcription. Recent findings suggest that the σ54 system, which includes σ54-loaded RNA polymerase and transcriptional activators called enhancer binding proteins (EBPs), might be a common regulator of natural product genes. Here, we explore this idea by analyzing four putative σ54 promoters identified in the sequences of Myxococcus xanthus natural product gene clusters. We show that mutations in the putative σ54-RNA polymerase binding regions reduce in vivo promoter activities during growth and development. We also show that the EBP Nla28 is important for the in vivo activities of three natural product promoters, that Nla28 binds to wild-type fragments of these promoters in vitro, and that in vitro binding is lost when the putative Nla28 binding sites are mutated. These results indicate that the natural product promoters are bona fide σ54 promoter elements and three are direct targets of Nla28. Interestingly, the vast majority of experimentally confirmed and putative σ54 promoters in M. xanthus natural product clusters are located within genes and not in intergenic sequences.
Characterization of the Human TARDBP Gene Promoter
Authors: Baralle Marco , Romano Maurizio
Published: November 2020

The expression of TDP-43, the main component of neuronal intracellular inclusions across a broad spectrum of ALS and FTD disorders, is developmentally regulated and studies in vivo have shown that TDP-43 overexpression can be toxic, even before observation of pathological aggregates. Starting from these observations, the regulation of its expression at transcriptional level might represent a further key element for the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, we have characterized the human TARDBP promoter, in order to study the transcriptional mechanisms of expression. Mapping of cis-acting elements by luciferase assays in different cells outlined that the activity of the promoter seems to be higher in cell lines of neuronal origin. We have identified the first 400 nucleotides upstream from the transcription start site as the minimal region with a significant transcription activity. In addition, we tested the effects of two SNPs found in the the promoter region of ALS patients and observed no significant effect on transcription levels. Then, TDP-43 overexpression did not affect significantly the activity of its promoter, suggesting that TDP-43 does not influence its own transcription. Finally, the presence of the 5'UTR sequence and of intron-1 splicing seem to impact positively on TDP-43 expression at transcriptional level.
Sensory Integration Abilities for Balance in Glaucoma, A Preliminary Study
Authors: O'Connell Caitlin , Redfern Mark , Chan Kevin , Wollstein Gadi , Conner Ian , Cham Rakie
Published: November 2020

The goal of this study was to quantify the association between sensory integration abilities relevant for standing balance and disease stage in glaucoma. Disease stage was assessed using both functional (visual field deficit) and structural (retinal nerve fiber layer thickness) deficits in the better and worse eye. Balance was assessed using an adapted version of the well-established Sensory Organization Test (SOT). Eleven subjects diagnosed with mild to moderate glaucoma stood for 3 minutes in 6 sensory challenging postural conditions. Balance was assessed using sway magnitude and sway speed computed based on center-of-pressure data. Mixed linear regression analyses were used to investigate the associations between glaucoma severity and balance measures. Findings revealed that visual field deficits severity in the better eye was associated with increased standing sway speed. This finding was confirmed in eyes open and closed conditions. Balance was not affected by the extent of the visual field deficit in the worse eye. Similarly, structural damage in either eye was not associated with the balance measures. In summary, this study found that postural control performance was associated with visual field deficit severity. The fact that this was found during eyes closed as well suggests that reduced postural control in glaucoma is not entirely attributed to impaired peripheral visual inputs. A larger study is needed to further investigate potential interactions between visual changes and central processing changes contributing to reduced balance function and increased incidence of falls in adults with glaucoma.
Direct and Rapid Measurement of Hydrogen Peroxide in Human Blood Using a Microfluidic Device
Authors: Gaikwad Ravindra , Thangaraj Paul , Sen Ashis
Published: November 2020

The levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in human blood is of great relevance as it has emerged as an important signalling molecule in a variety of disease states. Fast and reliable measurement of H2O2 levels in the blood, however, continues to remain a challenge. Herein we report an automated method employing a microfluidic device for direct and rapid measurement of H2O2 in human blood based on laser-induced fluorescence measurement. Our study delineates the critical factors that affect measurement accuracy – we found blood cells and soluble proteins significantly alter the native H2O2 levels in the time interval between sample withdrawal and detection. We show that separation of blood cells and subsequent dilution of the plasma with a buffer at a ratio of 1:6 inhibits the above effect, leading to reliable measurements. We demonstrate rapid measurement of in plasma in the concentration range of 0 – 49 µM, offering a limit of detection of 0.05 µM, a sensitivity of 0.60 µM-1, and detection time of 15 min; the device is amenable to the real-time measurement of H2O2 in the patient’s blood. Using the linear correlation obtained with known quantities of H2O2, the endogenous H2O2 concentration in the blood of healthy individuals is found to be in the range 2 – 6 µM. The availability of this device at the point of care will have relevance in understanding the role of H2O2 in health and disease.
Elucidation of the Core Betalain Biosynthesis Pathway in Amaranthus tricolor
Authors: Chang Yu-Cheng , Chiu Yi-Ching , Tsao Nai-Wen , Chou Yuan-Lin , Tan Choon-Meng , Chiang Yi-Hsuan , Liao Pei-Chi , Lee Ya-Chien , Hsieh Li-Ching , Wang Sheng-Yang , Yang Jun-Yi
Published: November 2020

Amaranthus tricolor L., a vegetable Amaranthus species, is an economically important crop containing large amounts of betalains. Betalains are natural antioxidants and can be classified into betacyanins and betaxanthins, with red and yellow colors, respectively. A. tricolor cultivars with varying betalain contents, leading to striking red to green coloration, have been commercially produced. However, the molecular differences underlying betalain biosynthesis in various cultivars of A. tricolor remain largely unknown. In this study, A. tricolor cultivars with different colors were chosen for comparative transcriptome analysis. The elevated expression of AmCYP76AD1 in a red-leaf cultivar of A. tricolor was proposed to play a key role in producing red betalain pigments. The functions of AmCYP76AD1, AmDODAa1, AmDODAa2, and AmcDOPA5GT were also characterized through the heterologous engineering of betalain pigments in Nicotiana benthamiana. Moreover, high and low L-DOPA 4,5-dioxygenase activities of AmDODAa1 and AmDODAa2, respectively, were confirmed through in vitro enzymatic assays. Thus, comparative transcriptome analysis combined with functional and enzymatic studies allowed the construction of a core betalain biosynthesis pathway of A. tricolor. These results not only provide novel insights into betalain biosynthesis and evolution in A. tricolor but also provide a basal framework for examining genes related to betalain biosynthesis among different species of Amaranthaceae.Accession numbers: The nucleotide sequences reported in this article have been submitted to [GenBank] under accession numbers [MT740230, MT741954, MT741955, MT741956].
Biosafety and Efficacy Evaluation of a Biodegradable Magnesium based Drug-eluting Stent in Porcine Coronary Artery
Authors: Zhu Jinzhou , Zhang Xiyuan , Niu Jialin , Shi Yongjuan , Zhu Zhengbin , Dai Daopeng , Chen Chenxin , Pei Jia , Yuan Guangyin , Zhang Ruiyan
Published: November 2020

Although drug-eluting stent (DES) has become the standard for percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) based revascularization, stent thrombosis has emerged as a major cause of death and morbidity for those clinical commonly used permanent stents. Drug-eluting bioresorbable stent (BRS) was thus developed as an alternative to DES, which can be completely absorbed after its therapeutic period. Among them, magnesium (Mg) based BRS has attracted great attention due to its suitable mechanical properties, innovative chemical features and well-proven biocompatibility. In the present work, a Mg–Nd–Zn-Zr (JDBM) based drug-eluting BRS loaded with rapamycin was prepared, and its biosafety and efficacy for coronary artery stenosis were evaluated via in vitro and in vivo experiments. The smooth muscle cells adhesion of PDLLA/RAPA coated alloy and the rapamycin pharmacokinetics of JDBM BRS were first assessed in vitro. JDBM BRS and commercial DES Firehawk were then implanted in the coronary arteries of a porcine model. Neointimal hyperplasia was evaluated at 30, 90, and 180 days, and re-endothelialization was evaluated at 30 days. Furthermore, Micro-CT and optical coherence tomography (OCT) analysis were performed to evaluate the technical feasibility and biocompatibility of JDBM alloy based drug-eluting BRS in vivo. The results showed the inhibition ability of PDLLA/RAPA coated JDBM to smooth muscle cells adhesion and moderate drug release rate of JDBM BRS, demonstrating good anti-restenosis ability in vitro. In vivo, low local and systemic risks of JDBM alloy based BRS was demonstrated in the porcine model. We also showed that this novel BRS was associated with a comparable efficacy profile and high anti-restenosis performance. These findings may confer long term advantages for the use of this BRS over a traditional DES.
Neonatal intestinal volvulus. Review of our experience over the last 20 years
Authors: Maya-Enero Silvia , Prat-Ortells Jordi , Martín-Solé Oriol , Haro-Jorge Irene De , Pertierra-Cortada Àfrica , Iriondo-Sanz Martín
Published: November 2020

Background: There are two types of volvulus: midgut (MGV) and segmental (SV). Patients with different types of volvulus are often included in the same case series, which may affect the perception of how severe "intestinal volvuli" are. We aimed to create a predictive model of death and intestinal failure (IF) in neonatal intestinal volvulus.Methods: Retrospective cohort study including all patients with MGV and SV up to 60 days of life admitted to a tertiary hospital in Spain over a 20-year-period (1999-2019). A comparison between groups and a logistic regression model for mortality and IF were done.Results: We identified 39 patients: 28 MGV and 11 SV. Prenatal diagnosis, intestinal atresia, meconial conditions, cystic fibrosis, and intestinal resection were significantly more frequent in SV. Need of inotropic durgs, birth weight (BW) 1500-2499g, BW 1000-1499g and <1000g increased the risk of death. SV and gestational age <37 weeks increased the risk of IF or dying.Conclusions: SV and MGV are different entities. Low BW and need for inotropic drugs are risk factors for death. Surgical examination should be performed to rule out volvulus in neonates presenting with such risk factors. Prematurity and SV are risk factors for IF.
Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Its Associated Factors Among Medical Waste Collectors at Public Health Facilities in Eastern Ethiopia: A Facility-based Cross-Sectional Study.
Authors: Mengiste Degu , Dirbsa Abebe , Ayele Behailu , Hailegiyorgis Tewdros
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe risk of Hepatitis B Virus infection among medical waste handlers who undergo collection, transportation, and disposal of medical wastes in the health institutions is higher due to frequent exposure to contaminated blood and other body fluids. There are limited evidence on the seroprevalence of hepatitis B among medical waste handlers in eastern Ethiopia.ObjectivesThe study was aimed at studying the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus and associated risk factors among medical waste collectors at health facilities of eastern Ethiopia Methodsa facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected medical waste collectors from public health facilities in eastern Ethiopia from March to June 2018. A pre-tested and well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and Hepatitis B infection risk factors. A 5ml venous blood was also collected, centrifuged and the serum was analyzed for Hepatitis B surface antigen using the Instant Hepatitis B surface antigen kit. Descriptive summary measures were done. Chi-square and Fisher exact tests were used to assess the risk of association. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted with 95% CI and all value at P-value < 0.05 was declared statistically significant. ResultsFrom a total of 260 (97.38%) medical waste collectors participated, HBV was detected in 53 (20.4%) of the participants [95%CI; 15.8, 25.6]. No significant differences were observed in the detection rates of HBV with respect to socio-demographic characteristics. In both bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis, being unvaccinated (AOR= 6.35; 95%CI = [2.53-15.96], P=0.001), history of blood transfusion (receiving) (AOR; 3.54; 95%CI; [1.02-12.24], P=0.046), history of tattooing (AOR= 2.86; 95%CI=[1.12-7.27], p=0.03), and history of multiple sexual partner (AOR= 10.28; 95%CI=[4.16-25.38], P=0.001) remained statistically significantly associated with HBsAg positivity. ConclusionThis cross-sectional study identified that HBV infection is high among medical waste collectors in eastern Ethiopia. Immunization and on job health promotion and disease prevention measures should be considered in order to control the risk of HBV infection among medical waste collectors.
Growth Arrest and DNA Damage-Ind­ucible Proteins (GADD45) in Psoriasis
Authors: Rodríguez-Jiménez Pedro , Fernández-Messina Lola , Ovejero-Benito María , Chicharro Pablo , Vara Alicia , Cibrian Danay , Martínez-Fleta Pedro , Jiménez-Fernández María , Sánchez-García Inés , Llamas-Velasco Mar , Abad-Santos Francisco , Sánchez-Madrid Francisco , Dauden Esteban , Fuente Hortensia de la
Published: November 2020

The interplay between T cells, dendritic cells and keratinocytes is crucial in the development and maintenance of inflammation in psoriasis. GADD45 proteins mediate DNA repair in many cells including keratinocytes. In the immune system, GADD45a and GADD45b regulate the function and activation of both T lymphocytes and dendritic cells and GADD45a links DNA repair and epigenetic regulation by mediating demethylation. Here, we analyzed the expression of GADD45a and GADD45b in the skin, dendritic cells and circulating T cells from psoriasis patients and their regulation by inflammatory signals. Psoriasis patients exhibited a lower expression of GADD45a at the epidermis but a higher expression in dermal infiltrating T cells in lesional skin. Expression of GADD45a and GADD45b was also higher in peripheral T cells from psoriasis patients, although no differences were observed in p38 activation. The expression and methylation state of the GADD45a target UCHL1 were evaluated, revealing a hypermethylation of its promoter in lesional skin compared to non-lesional skin and controls. Furthermore, hypermethylation correlated with lower levels of both GADD45a and UCHL1 in lesional skin. The demethylase function of GADD45a may account for its pleiotropic effects, and the complex and heterogeneous pattern of expression observed in psoriatic disease.
Early triage of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 based on predicted prognosis: A Korean national cohort study
Authors: An Chansik , Oh Hyun Cheol , Chang Jung Hyun , Oh Sung Jin , Lee Jung Mo , Han Chang Hoon , Kim Seong Woo
Published: November 2020

We developed a tool for early triage of a COVID-19 patient based on a predicted prognosis, using a Korean national cohort of 5,596 patients. Predictors chosen for our model were older age, male sex, subjective fever, dyspnea, altered consciousness, temperature ≥ 37.5°C, heart rate ≥ 100 bpm, systolic blood pressure ≥ 160 mmHg, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, cancer, dementia, anemia, leukocytosis, lymphocytopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Our model was better in predicting prognosis than protocols that are not based on data. The AUC of our model utilizing all the selected predictors was 0.907 in predicting whether a patient will require at least oxygen therapy and 0.927 in predicting whether a patient will need critical care or die from COVID-19. Even with age, sex, and symptoms alone used as predictors, AUCs were ≥ 0.88. In contrast, the protocols currently recommended in Korea showed AUCs less than 0.75.
Extra-Esophageal Symptoms in Individuals With and Without Erosive Esophagitis: A Case-Control Study in Albania
Authors: Sadiku Edite , Hasani Eqerem , Këlliçi Indrit , Mone Iris , Kraja Fatjona , Kraja Bledar , Burazeri Genc
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Erosive reflux esophagitis caused a large clinical spectrum of symptoms. Our aim was to assess the prevalence of extra-esophageal symptoms in individuals with and those without erosive esophagitis in Albania.Methods: A case-control study was conducted at the Regional Hospital of Durres, the second main district in Albania, a transitional country in South Eastern Europe, including 248 patients with erosive esophagitis (aged 46.5±16.3 years) and 273 controls (aged 46.4±16.0 years; response rate: 70%) enrolled during the period January 2013 – June 2014. Both cases and controls underwent upper endoscopy. Information on socio-demographic characteristics and lifestyle factors was also collected. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the association of erosive esophagitis and extra-esophageal symptoms. Results: Patients with erosive esophagitis had a higher prevalence of excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, sedentarity, non-Mediterranean diet and obesity compared to their control counterparts (9% vs. 5%, 70% vs. 49%, 31% vs. 17%, 61% vs. 49% and 22% vs. 9%, respectively). Upon adjustment for all socio-demographic characteristics and lifestyle/behavioral factors, there was evidence of a strong association of erosive esophagitis with chronic cough (OR=3.2, 95%CI=1.7-5.8), and even more so with laryngeal disorders (OR=4.4, 95%CI=2.6-7.5). In all models, the association of erosive esophagitis with any extra-esophageal symptoms was strong and mainly consistent with each of the symptoms separately (fully-adjusted model: OR=4.6, 95%CI=2.9-7.3). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the prevalence of extra-esophageal symptoms is higher among patients with erosive esophagitis in a transitional country characterized conventionally by employment of a Mediterranean diet.
Phylogenetic and Ultrastructural Characterization of Bed Bugs in the Southwest of Iran
Authors: Bahrami Somayeh , Alizadeh Ismaeil , Pazhoom Fatemeh , Cork Susan , O.Nzelu Chukwunonso , Alborzi Ali Reza
Published: November 2020

Background: Bed bugs belong systematically to Order Hemiptera; Suborder Heteroptera; Family Cimicidae are of public health importance as ectoparasites of mammals and birds, however, only a few species are the putative ectoparasites of humans. Bed bugs are a wingless bloodsucking hemipterous bug (Cimex spp.) sometimes infesting houses and especially beds and feeding on human blood. Correct species identification is very important in order to design targeted strategies for surveillance and control of bed bugs in a given area. Methods: Adult bed bugs were collected from houses located in the southwest of Iran. The specimens were morphologically identified to the species level and then confirmed using molecular methods. Results: The mtDNA 16S rRNA sequences obtained from the specimens, and phylogenetic tree derived, showed that all the sequences belong to Cimex hemipterus. The Disparity Index among results showed that all the specimens were of a heterogeneous population. To the best of our knowledge, the leg structure of this species has not previously been documented and this is the first report of an open-closed rack system in the legs of C. hemipterus.Conclusions: Previous studies claimed that C. lectularius is the abundant species of Cimicids in Iran. But this investigation showed that C. hemipterus is the prevalent species in the southwest of Iran.
Intra-articular Magnesium to Alleviate Postoperative Pain After Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Shi Lijun , Zhu Haiyun , Ma Jinhui , Shi Li-Li , Gao Fuqiang , Sun Wei
Published: November 2020

Objective: We evaluated the safety and efficacy of intra-articular (IA) magnesium (Mg) for postoperative pain relief after arthroscopic knee surgery. Methods. We searched PubMed, Embase, Medline, Cochrane library, and Web of Science to identify randomized controlled trials that compared postoperative pain outcomes with or without IA Mg after knee arthroscopy. The primary outcomes were pain intensity at rest and with movement at different postoperative time points and cumulative opioid consumption within 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes included the time to first analgesic request and side effects. Results. In total, 11 randomized controlled trials involving 677 subjects met the eligibility criteria. Pain scores at rest and with movement 2, 4, 12, and 24 h after surgery were significantly lower, doses of supplementary opioid consumption were smaller, and the time to first analgesic requirement was longer in the IA Mg group compared with the control group. No significant difference was detected regarding adverse reactions between the groups. Conclusions. Administering IA Mg following arthroscopic knee surgery is effective for relieving postoperative pain intensity, reducing opioid consumption, and prolonging the time before analgesics are needed without increasing adverse reactions. Protocol registration at Prospero: CRD42020156403.
Severe Leg Length Discrepancy after Total Hip Arthroplasty: Where is the Problem- Cup or Stem? A Retrospective Controlled Study
Authors: Ma Jimin , Lu Hanli , Chen Xinxing , Wang Dasai , Wang Qiang
Published: November 2020

Background: The factors that contribute to the severe leg length discrepancy (LLD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) are presently unclear. In the current study, we investigated whether the acetabular cup position and femoral stem are related to the patients with severe LLD by comparing with patients who had the leg length equality.Materials and Methods: Between June 2013 and July 2019, patients undergoing unilateral primary THA in the Department of Orthopaedics at our institution were screened. According to the postoperative leg length difference, a total of 178 patients were included in the study. A group of 107 patients had leg length equality (LLD≤3 mm) and the other group of 71 patients had severe LLD (LLD≥15 mm). A standardized protocol for evaluation of anteroposterior hip radiographs was used to measure the postoperative LLD. The difference of acetabular cup position (vertical centre of rotation (VCR), horizontal centre of rotation (HCR)) and the femoral stem(stem height; stem size; femoral neck osteotomy level) between the two groups. We also assessed whether there was a difference in proximal femur morphology between the two groups.Results: On the femoral side, the mean stem height of (70.82±5.49) mm in the severe LLD group was significantly different from the (67.35±6.88) mm mean discrepancy in the leg length equality group (P < .001). Stem size and femoral neck osteotomy level showed no statistically differences between the two groups (P>0.05). On the acetabular side, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the VCR and HCR (P>0.05) . There was also no statistical difference in proximal femur morphology between the two groups (P>0.05).Conclusion: The main reason for the occurrence of severe LLD may be due to improper treatment of the femur side. Although preoperative template could choose a better stem size and femoral neck osteotomy level, surgeons need to pay more attention to the whole operation process of the femur stem.
Texture Analysis to Differentiate Anterior Cruciate Ligament in Patients After Surgery With Platelet-Rich Plasma
Authors: Alves Allan Felipe Fattori , Miranda José Ricardo de Arruda , Souza Sérgio Augusto Santana de , Pereira Ricardo Violante , Silvares Paulo Roberto de Almeida , Yamashita Seizo , Deffune Elenice , Pina Diana
Published: November 2020

BackgroundPlatelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) has been used to favor Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) healing after reconstruction surgeries. However, clinical data are still inconclusive and subjective about PRP. Thus, we propose a quantitative method to demonstrate that PRP produced morphological structures changes.MethodsThirty-four patients undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery were evaluated and divided into Control Group (sixteen patients) without PRP application and Experiment Group (eighteen patients) with intraoperative application of PRP. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans were performed three months after surgery. We used Matlab® and Machine Learning (ML) in Orange Canvas® to Texture Analysis (TA) features extraction. Experienced radiologists delimited the regions of interest (RoIs) in the T2-weighted images. 62 texture parameters were extracted, including Gray-Level Co-occurrence Matrix and Gray Level Run Length. We used the algorithms Logistic Regression (LR), Naive Bayes (NB) and Stochastic Gradient Descent (SGD).ResultsThe accuracy of the classification with NB, LR, and SGD was 83.3%, 75%, 75%, respectively. For the area under the curve: NB, LR, and SGD presented values of 91.7%, 94.4%, 75%, respectively. In clinical evaluations, the groups show similar responses in terms of improvement in pain and increase in the IKDC index (International Knee Documentation Committee) and Lysholm Score indices differing only in the assessment of flexion, which presents a significant difference for the group treated with PRP.ConclusionsHere, we demonstrated quantitatively that patients who received PRP presented texture changes when compared to the control group. Thus, our findings suggest that PRP interferes with morphological parameters of the ACL.Trial RegistrationProtocol no. CAAE 56164316.6.0000.5411.