bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated expression of lncRNA MEG3 induces endothelial dysfunction on HUVECs of IVF born offspring via epigenetic regulation
Authors: Jiang Ying , Zhu Hong , Chen Hong , Yang Meng-Meng , Yu Yi-Chen , He Sai-Nan , Xu Ye-Tao , Liu Fang , Sagnelli Matthew , Zhu Yi-Min , Luo Qiong
Published: October 2020

Background: The cardiovascular dysfunction in children born after in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been of great concern, in our study, we aim to explore potential molecular mechanism for such long-term outcomes.
Methods： Real-time qPCR was used to test long non-coding RNAMEG3and endothelium-derived factors, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), endothelin-1(ET1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Primary HUVEC after caesarean section was treated with different estradiol concentrations in vitro. Besides, knockdown ofMEG3on HUVEC provided further evidence between MEG3 expression and alteration of NO, ET1, VEGF. Then, by using pyrosequencing, we detectedMEG3promoter methylation status.
Results: We found that the expression level of MEG3was higher in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) of IVF offspring than that in spontaneously born offspring. Furthermore, we found decreased expression ofeNOS, VEGF, elevated expression of ET1in HUVECs from IVF offspring compared to spontaneously born offspring. We further confirmed the results from in-vivo experiments by demonstrating that high-estradiol intrauterine environments lead to abnormal expression of MEG3 and endothelium-derived factors. Meanwhile, silencing MEG3expression decreased ET1expression, and increased nitrite, nitrate, VEGFsecretion, which could correct the effect we observed in-vivo. With pyrosequencing technology, we found that elevated expression of MEG3in IVF offspring derived HUVECs was the result of hypomethylation of the MEG3promoter.
Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that higher expression ofMEG3in IVF-born HUVECs, accompanied by lower secretion of eNOS, VEGF, and higher secretion of ET1, which is closely related with endothelial dysfunction, which togetherprovide a potential mechanism addressing high-risk of hypertension in IVF offspring.
APOBEC3B and SPAG5, the Target Genes of miR-539, Involved into Imatinib-Resistant of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Liu Haiyun , Li Xingmin , Wang Hongxing
Published: October 2020

Background: Although imatinib can effectively treat gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), some patients are still resistant to it or cannot tolerate the adverse reactions of the drug. This study aimed to investigate potential miRNAs, mRNA and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) associated with the prognosis of imatinib-resistant GIST.Methods: mRNA, miRNA sequencing data and patient clinic traits of primary (imatinib-naive) and imatinib-resistant GIST were obtained from GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database. A systems biology approach combining Weighted co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differential expression analysis were utilized to detect the imatinib-resistant-related miRNA and gene modules and construct a miRNA-gene network. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells were analyzed by Estimating the Proportion of Immune and Cancer cells (EPIC) and Tumor-Immune System Interactions (TISIDB). miR-539 was measured by qRT-PCR. SPAG5 and APOBEC3B was measured by qRT-PCR and WB. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and interleukin (IL)-10 were assessed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The proportions of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells , NK cells and B cells in tumor-infiltrating lymphocyteswere analyzed via flow cytometry (FCM).Results: Two gene modules (brown and yellow) and one miRNA module were associated with the imatinib-resistant. Two hub genes (APOBEC3B and SPAG5) were associated with the imatinib-resistant. Three hub miRNAs were identified to be related to imatinib-resistant (miR-539, miR-376b and miR-18b). G1/S transition of mitotic cell cycle, G2/M transition of mitotic cell cycle, and cell proliferation were common pathways of the gene modules and miRNA module. apolipoprotein B mRNA editing catalytic polypeptide-like 3B (APOBEC3B) and Sperm-associated antigen 5 (SPAG5), which were both target genes of miR-539 was located at the core of miRNA–gene network. APOBEC3B (rho=0.509, p < 2.2e-16) and SPAG5 (rho=0.468, p < 2.2e-16) was positive correlated with the infiltration levels of activated CD4+ T cells. he proportions of CD4+ T cells, and the mRNA and protein relative expression of APOBEC3B and SPAG5 in imatinib-resistant tumor samples significantly increased as compared with tumor samples in imatinib-naive group. Imatinib-resistant tumor samples exhibited significantly downregulation of miR-539 and TGF-β1. Over-expression of miR-539 sensitized imatinib resistant GIST48 cells and increased the secretion of TGF-β1 by inhibiting APOBEC3B and SPAG5.Conclusion: APOBEC3B and SPAG5, the target genes of miR-539 may play as key factor for imatinib-resistant GIST by increasing the proportion of tumor-infiltrated activated CD4+ T cells via TGF-β1. These findings help to advance the understanding of imatinib-resistant GIST and provide potential therapeutic targets.
Authorized, Clear and Timely Communication of Risk to Guide Public Perception and Action: Lessons of COVID-19 From China
Authors: Gong Ni , Liao Jing , Jin Xiaoyuan , Li Yundong , Zhang Meifen , Cheng Yu , Xu Dong
Published: October 2020

Backgrounds: This study examined the dynamic association between risk communication and public’s risk perception and action across the COVID-19 outbreak timeline in China.Methods: Publicly available information on COVID-19 was collected by Parehub tool for official channels (e.g. government websites and official media), and by Zhongyun Big Data Platform for mainstream Chinese social media (e.g. TikTok, Weibo, etc.). Information was examined by its release channels, content and release time. An online survey was conducted via WeChat across 33 provinces and municipalities of China to assess changes in participants’ risk perception and action against COVID-19. Information content and release-time trajectories were examined against the public’s risk perception and actions over time.Results: Altogether, 1,477 pieces of authorized information and 297,000 pieces of short videos on COVID-19 were retrieved from official channels and social media. Our online survey of 1,311 responds (25-60 years, 42% male) indicated that participants mainly relied on official channels to obtain information. Alongside the progress of the outbreak, there was a gradual rise in information quantity, publishing frequency, and content variation. Correspondingly, the public’s risk perception that “take it seriously" rose from 13% to 80%, 87.1% of who took “multiple actions” compared to 25.9% initially.Conclusions: Our findings indicated that insufficient information freely-accessible at the early stages of the outbreak may nevertheless lead to the lack of risk awareness and inadequate protective actions of the public. Given the current global situation of COVID-19, the study highlights authorized, transparent, and timely two-way risk communication is vital to guide public perception and actions.
Identifying Disincentives to Ethics Consultation Requests Among Physicians, Advance Practice Providers, and Nurses
Authors: Cederquist Lynette Carol , LaBuzetta Jamie , Cachay Edward , Friedman Lawrence , Yi Cassia , Dibsie Laura , Zhang Yiran
Published: October 2020

Background: Ethics consult services are well established, but often remain underutilized. Our aim was to identify the barriers and perceptions of the Ethics consult service at our urban academic medical center which might contribute to underutilization.Methods: This was a cross-sectional single-center, anonymous written online survey, developed by the UCSD Ethics committee, distributed by Survey Monkey, in January 2019, to a total of 3,800 clinicians at a tertiary care academic medical center. This was a quality improvement project, so IRB approval was waived. Results: Approximately 3,800 surveys were sent to physicians, advance practice providers (APPs) and nurses with a return rate of 5.5 - 10%. The majority of respondents had encountered an ethical dilemma although only half had ever requested an ethics consult. We found that there were 4 general reasons people did not consult Ethics: 1.) unawareness of the existence of or means of contacting the Ethics service. 2.) a priori perceptions that an Ethics consult would not be helpful or might slow down decision making. 3.) experiencing a poor quality consult in the past, including variability in knowledge and ability among various consultants, 4) a consult did not improve the situation, or lacked specific guidance from the consultant.Conclusions: Based on our survey results, we proposed the following methods of reducing barriers to use of an Ethics consult service: 1) Consults need to offer specific recommendations 2) set expectations for the consultation process and outcome; 3) ensure that Ethics consultants have strong training; 4) more actively engage nursing staff, and 5) better inform clinicians about the availability of the Ethics consult service.
Dynamic Changes in Blood PD-L1 Expression Predict the Efficacy and Overall Survival of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatment in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Yang Qiao , Chen Mingjing , Gu Jiaoyang , Niu Kai , Zhao Xianlan , Zheng Linpeng , Xu Zihan , Yu Yongxin , Li Feng , Meng Lingxin , Zhu Bo , Chen Zhengtang , Zhuo Wenlei , Zhang Luping , Sun Jianguo
Published: October 2020

Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become a high-profile treatment regimen for malignancy in recent years. However, only a small piece of patients obtain benefit. How to use reasonable biomarkers to optimally select suitable patients is currently a research hot topic.Methods Paired tissue samples and blood samples from 51 patients with various malignancies were collected for correlation analysis. Dynamic changes in bPD-L1 expression, including PD-L1 mRNA, soluble PD-L1 (sPD-L1) and exosomal PD-L1 (exoPD-L1) protein, were detected in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with ICIs. The best cutoff values for progression-free survival (PFS) and OS of all three biomarkers were calculated with R software.Results In 51 malignancies patients, those with positive tPD-L1 expression had significantly higher PD-L1 mRNA expression than those with negative tPD-L1 expression. For sPD-L1 expression, only the TC1~2/IC1~2 group had higher expression than the TC0/IC0 group. In 40 NSCLC patients, those with a fold change (2 months compared to baseline) of PD-L1 mRNA over 2.03 had a better PFS, a better OS and the best objective response (bOR) rate. In addition, a fold change of exoPD-L1 over 1.85 was also found to be associated with better efficacy and OS in a small cohort. Furthermore, the combination of the biomarkers could better screen patients who could benefit from ICI treatment.Conclusion Blood PD-L1 expression was positively correlated with tPD-L1 expression. Increased expression of exoPD-L1, PD-L1 mRNA, or both during early treatment could serve as biomarkers for predicting efficacy and OS in NSCLC patients treated with ICIs.
miR-708-5p Enhances Erlotinib/paclitaxel Efficacy and Overcomes Chemoresistance in Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Monteleone Nicholas , Lutz Carol S.
Published: October 2020

BackgroundLung cancer is a collection of aggressive tumors generally not diagnosed until late-stage, resulting in high mortality rates. The vast majority of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients undergo combinatory chemotherapeutic treatment, which initially reduces tumor growth, but frequently becomes ineffective due to toxicity and resistance. Researchers have identified multiple signaling pathways involved in lung cancer chemoresistance, including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)/microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). While COX-2 inhibitors have shown promise in the clinic, their use is limited due to severe side effects. One novel approach to effectively suppress COX-2 signaling is through microRNA (miRNA). MiRNAs are small-noncoding RNAs commonly misexpressed in cancer. One tumor suppressive miRNA, miR-708-5p, has been shown to repress pro-resistant signaling pathways, including COX-2 and mPGES-1. MethodsmiR-708-5p expression was measured via RT-qPCR, while protein expression was assessed using western blotting. Biological changes in lung cancer cell proliferation and survival were evaluated using Ki-67 and Annexin V staining via flow cytometry, respectively. ResultsHere, we demonstrate that chemotherapies reduce COX-2 expression, possibly through induction of miR-708-5p. Moreover, combination treatment of erlotinib (ERL) or paclitaxel (PAC) with miR-708-5p enhances COX-2 and mPGES-1 protein suppression. We also show that combination chemotherapeutic and miR-708-5p treatment intensifies the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of ERL and PAC. We also created ERL and PAC resistant lung cancer cell lines, which have increased COX-2 expression and diminished miR-708-5p levels compared to naïve lung cancer cells. While ERL and PAC treatments do not alter resistant cell phenotype alone, combination treatment with miR-708-5p partially restores the chemotherapies’ anti-proliferative effects and fully restores their pro-apoptotic qualities. ConclusionThese data suggest miR-708-5p may have potential combinatory therapeutic value to more efficaciously treat lung tumors while overcoming chemoresistance.
Longitudinal Prospective Study of Emergency Medicine Provider Wellness Across Ten Academic and Community Hospitals During the Initial Surge of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kelker Heather , Yoder Kyle , Musey Paul , Harris Madison , Johnson Olivia , Sarmiento Elisa , Vyas Punit , Henderson Brooke , Adams Zachary , Welch Julie L
Published: October 2020

Background: While the coronavirus (COVID-19) has had far-reaching consequences on society and health care providers, there is a paucity of research exploring emergency medicine (EM) provider wellness over the course of a pandemic. The objective of this study was to assess the well-being, resilience, burnout, and wellness factors and needs of EM physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: A longitudinal, descriptive, prospective cohort survey study of 213 EM physicians and APPs was performed across ten emergency departments in a single state, including academic and community settings. Participants were recruited via email to complete four weekly, voluntary, anonymous questionnaires comprised of customized and validated tools for assessing wellness (Well Being Index), burnout (Physician Work Life Study item), and resilience (Brief Resilience Scale) during the initial acceleration phase of COVID-19. Univariate and multivariate analysis with Chi-squared, Fisher’s Exact, and logistic regression was performed.Results: Of 213 eligible participants, response rates ranged from 31 to 53% over four weeks. Women comprised 54 to 60% of responses. Nonrespondent characteristics were similar to respondents. Concern for personal safety decreased from 85% to 61% (p<0.001). Impact on basic self-care declined from 66% to 32% (p<0.001). Symptoms of stress, anxiety or fear was initially 83% and reduced to 66% (p=0.009). Reported strain on relationships and feelings of isolation affected >50% of respondents initially without significant change (p=0.05 and p=0.30 respectively). Women were nearly twice as likely to report feelings of isolation as men (OR 1.95; 95%CI 1.82-5.88). Working part-time carried twice the risk of burnout (OR, 2.45; 95% CI, 1.10-5.47). Baseline resilience was normal to high. Provider well-being improved over the four-weeks (30% to 14%; p=0.01), but burnout did not significantly change (30% to 22%; p=0.39).Conclusion: This survey of frontline EM providers during the initial surge of COVID-19 found that despite being a resilient group, the majority experienced stress, anxiety, fear, and concerns about personal safety due to COVID-19, with many at risk for burnout. The sustained impact of the pandemic on EM provider wellness deserves further investigation to guide targeted interventions.
Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Secreted Protein PA3611 Promotes Bronchial Epithelial Cells Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Through TGF-β1 Inducing p38/miRNA/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Shu Lei , Chen Sixia , Chen Xiaolin , Lin Shaoqing , Du Xingran , Deng Kaili , Wei Jing , Cao Yang , Yan Jiaxin , Shen Ziyan , Feng Ganzhu
Published: October 2020

BackgroundPseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) is one of the important pathogens, which has been proven to colonize and cause infection in the respiratory tract of patients with structural lung diseases, and further lead to bronchial fibrosis. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) of bronchial epithelial cells plays a vital role in the process of bronchial fibrosis. Up to the present, the research on bronchial epithelial cells EMT caused by secreted virulence factors of PA has not been reported. ResultsIn our present study, we found that PA3611 protein stimulation induced the bronchial epithelial cells EMT with up-regulation of mesenchymal cell markers and down-regulation of epithelial cell markers. Meantime, TGF-β1 secretion was markedly increased, IκBα expression was significantly decreased, and NF-κB p65 subunit phosphorylation was markedly enhanced, in addition, the levels of miR-3065-3p and miR-6802-3p expression and p38 MAPK phosphorylation were obviously increased in bronchial epithelial cells after PA3611 stimulation, furthermore, PA3611 was shown to promote EMT occur through TGF-β1 induced p38/miRNA/NF-Κb pathway. The function of PA3611 was also veriﬁed in PA-infected rats and results showed that △PA3611 could reduce lung inflammation and EMT. ConclusionsOverall, our results revealed that PA3611 promotes EMT via simulating the production of TGF-β1 induced p38/miRNA/NF-κB pathway-dependent manner, suggesting that PA3611 acts as a crucial virulence factor in bronchial epithelial cells EMT process and has potential use as a target for clinical treatment of bronchial EMT and fibrosis caused by chronic PA infection.
Obesity control by SHIP inhibition requires pan-paralog inhibition and an intact eosinophil compartment
Authors: Fernandes Sandra , Srivast Neetu , Pedicone Chiara , Sudan Raki , Luke Elizabeth , Dungan Otto , Pacherille Angela , Meyer Shea , Dormann Shawn , Chisholm John , Kerr William
Published: October 2020

Previously a small molecule SHIP inhibitor, K118, was shown to reverse high-fat diet induced obesity and improve blood glucose regulation in obese mice. K118 treatment was also found to increase the frequency and number of IL-4 producing eosinophils in the visceral fat as well as two potent immunoregulatory myeloid cell populations: M2-polarized macrophages and myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSC) suggesting an immune regulatory mechanism. However, the cell(s) or SHIP paralog that should be targeted to improve metabolic regulation were not defined. Here we extend our understanding of how chemical inhibition of SHIP paralogs improves metabolic regulation during excess caloric intake. We compare different SHIP inhibitors in an obesity prevention model and find that selective inhibitors for SHIP1 or SHIP2 lack the ability to prevent weight gain and body fat accumulation during increased caloric intake. Surprisingly, only pan-SHIP1/2 inhibitors could prevent diet-induced obesity. We confirm that both SHIP1 and SHIP2 must be targeted by showing that dual treatment with the SHIP1 and SHIP2 selective inhibitors can reduce adiposity caused by excess caloric consumption. We also show that pan-SHIP1/2 inhibitors of two different chemical classes can control diet-induced obesity and improve blood glucose regulation. Intriguingly, we find that both classes of pan-SHIP1/2 inhibitors require an intact eosinophil compartment to prevent diet-related fat accumulation demonstrating pan-SHIP1/2 inhibitors act via the VAT innate immune compartment to control adiposity However, improved blood glucose regulation by pan-SHIP1/2 inhibition is not dependent upon eosinophils, indicating a separate mechanism of action for diet-related loss of glucose regulation.
Antiﬁbrotic activity of Hypocrellin A united LED red light irradiation on Keloid Fibroblasts through counteracting TGF-β/Smad/autophagy/apoptosis signaling pathway
Authors: Niu Tianhui , Tian Yan , Shi Ying , Guo Guangjin , Tong Ying , Wang Guangyun
Published: October 2020

Keloid disease is characterized by abnormal proliferation of fibroblast and continuous deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. More and more attention in dermopathic is paid to photodynamic therapy (PDT) with visible light. The natural photosensitizer Hypocrellin A (HA) is identified to develop a splendid light induced anticancer, antimicrobial and antiviral activity. In this experiment, we investigated the impacts of HA united light-emitting diode (LED) red light irradiation on human keloid fibroblast cells (KFs). Our results showed that HA united red light irradiation treatment (HA-R-PDT) decreased KFs viability, reduced KFs collagen production and ECM accumulation, inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed cell invasion and induced cell apoptosis. Moreover, our observations demonstrated that TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and autophagy were restrained by HA-R-PDT. TGF-β1 could accommodate autophagy in KFs through both Smad and ERK pathway, while inhibiting autophagy could mediate TGF-β1 level by the negative feedback. Therefore, HA-R-PDT could suppress cell hyper-proliferation, collagen synthesis and ECM accumulation in KFs via regulating TGF-β1-ERK-autophagy-apoptosis signaling pathway. HA-R-PDT deserves systematic investigation as a potential therapeutic strategy for keloid treatment and autophagy might be a promising candidate in the therapy of KFs.
Longitudinal analysis of blood markers reveals progressive loss of resilience and predicts ultimate human lifespan limit
Authors: Pyrkov Timothy , Avchaciov Konstantin , Tarkhov Andrei , Menshikov Leonid , Gudkov Andrei , Fedichev Peter
Published: October 2020

We investigated the dynamic properties of the organism state fluctuations along individual aging trajectories in a large longitudinal database of CBC measurements from a consumer diagnostics laboratory. To simplify the analysis, we used a log-linear mortality estimate from the CBC variables as a single quantitative measure of aging process, henceforth referred to as dynamic organism state index (DOSI). We observed, that the age-dependent population DOSI distribution broadening could be explained by a progressive loss of physiological resilience measured by the DOSI auto-correlation time. Extrapolation of this trend suggested that DOSI recovery time and variance would simultaneously diverge at a critical point of 120-150 years of age corresponding to a complete loss of resilience. The observation was immediately confirmed by the independent analysis of correlation properties of intraday physical activity levels fluctuations collected by wearable devices. We conclude that the criticality resulting in the end of life is an intrinsic biological property of an organism that is independent of stress factors and signifies a fundamental or absolute limit of human lifespan.
Virtual Surgical Planning and Pre-operative Simulation for Maxillofacial Reconstruction with 3D Printing Technology in Tumor-affected Facial Deformity
Authors: Kim Gyeong-Man , Bayleyegn Masreshaw Demelash , Kim Song-Jung
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe high anatomical complexity of maxillofacial defects caused by tumor can pose a formidable challenge for clinicians when designing an appropriate plan for surgical reconstruction. The intention of this work was to restore the complex anatomy with maximum possible facial functionality and aesthetics of the patient. Based on the medical images generated by computed tomography (CT) scan an optimal therapeutic planning for complex maxillofacial reconstruction was designed. MethodFirstly, the volumetric data sets were carefully evaluated and deeply inspected for accurate diagnosis. Regarding 3D visualization of the CT scan images 3D virtual models for regions of interest were created using a special software of 3D Slicer. Using the resulting 3D virtual models a well-defined virtual surgical planning was generated for multiple surgical procedures, including the osteotomies for bone defects, harvesting autogenous bone graft and creating a customized implant. ResultsThe relevant patient-specific anatomical models for real surgery were translated into the 3D printed physical models, with which the surgeons can rehearse the surgery before coming into the operating room. Precisely defined multiple surgeries for complex maxillofacial reconstruction were proposed in this research that could be transferred to the real-time surgery. ConclusionsThe proposed surgical approach will be beneficial both for the surgeons and patient, including improvement in surgical precision and outcomes, reduction in operating time, as well as understanding surgical procedures and decision making etc.
Comparison Between Sarcopenia and Frailty as Predictors of Postoperative Complications: 65 Years and Older Non-Cardiac Surgery Cohort Study
Authors: Shema Astrid Bicamumpaka , Forget Marie-France , Bouchard Maude , Bellemare Laurence , Afilalo Jonathan , Mullie Louis-Antoine , Ghali Rafik , Wang Han Ting
Published: October 2020

BackgroundSarcopenia and frailty are two different concepts with specific measures. Nonetheless, they share similarities. Whether one is a better predictor of postoperative adverse outcomes in older adults has not been well studied. Our main objective was to evaluate the psoas muscle index (PMI), used as a surrogate for sarcopenia, and the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) association with postoperative complications incidence. Our secondary objective was to evaluate the correlation between PMI and CFS in a cohort of non-cardiac surgery patients. MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational cohort study. Patients 65 years and older undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery in a tertiary academic center were included. Right and left psoas areas were measured on a CT scan at the fourth lumbar vertebra body level, and the sum was normalized for squared height (PMI). Sarcopenia was defined as PMI lowest tertile. The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program defined postoperative complications. We performed a negative binomial regression analysis to assess the association with postoperative complications and compared the model fit using the Akaike information criterion (AIC). Correlation between PMI and CFS was analyzed using the Spearman correlation.ResultsA total of 78 patients were included. Median PMI was 6.23 cm2/m2 (interquartile range (IQR): 5.29 – 7.21 cm2/m2) for women and 7.77 cm2/m2 (IQR: 6.49 – 8.55 cm2/m2) for men. In multivariate analysis, lower PMI tertile was significantly associated with an increasing number of complications (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 2.26, confidence interval (CI 95%): 1.01 – 5.56, p = 0.048) while CFS was not. AIC was lower with the PMI model compared to the CFS model. The correlation coefficient between PMI and CSF was -0.241 (p = 0.044).ConclusionsIn our cohort, PMI was a better predictor of postoperative complications than CFS. The correlation between PMI and CFS was weak. An objective measure of sarcopenia, compared to the broader concept of frailty, might be an easier way to identify patients with higher risks of complications. Trial registrationRetrospective ethics approval
First Molecular Detection of Human Pathogen Rickettsia Raoultii in Ticks from Republic of Korea
Authors: Tariq Misbah , Seo Jun-Won , Kim Da Young , Yun Na Ra , Lee You Mi , Kim Choon-Mee , Kim Dong-Min
Published: October 2020

Background: Rickettsial diseases, associated with the spotted fever group (SFG), constitute a growing number of newly identified rickettsia pathogens and their tick vectors, in various parts of the world. At least 15 distinct tick species owing to six genera have shown the presence of Rickettsia raoultii. Here, we report the detection of R. raoultii in ticks from the Republic of Korea (ROK).Methods: A total of 35 ticks, collected from patients of tick bites in Gwangju Metropolitan City, Jeollanam Province, ROK. The ticks were were identified through their molecular, morphological, and taxonomic characteristics. All samples were screened by nested polymerase chain reactions of their outer membrane protein (ompA) and citrate synthase (gltA) genes. The amplified products were sequenced and their phylogenetic analyses were carried out.Results: Sequencing data showed that the DNA sequences of R. raoultii found in the three H. longicornis ticks. All 3 tick samples were 99.4-100% analogous to the previously reported partial sequences of ompA of R. raoultii strains CP019435 and MF002523, forming a single clade with the reference strains.Conclusions: Present study provides the first description and molecular identification of R. raoultii detected in H. longicornis ticks in ROK. This observation extends the geographical distribution of R. raoultii. Screening of human samples for this pathogen will provide information about the prevalence of rickettsial infection in this region.
Conservational Tree Growing by Smallholder Farm Households: Evidence from Gamo Highlands of Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Massa Malebo Mancha , Mosa Abdulaziz Abdulsemed
Published: October 2020

Background: Deforestation and environmental degradation were identified among the leading factors worsening risk exposure in developing countries. Conservational tree growing was found a permissible option and an awake up policy direction to curve down the problem in Ethiopia. However, the uptake of this practice is far from complete and the art has not been made to a level that could make households self-reliant at least in tree resources, particularly in the highlands. This study was aimed at identifying the main decisive factors that potentially influence conservational tree growing behavior of smallholder farm households in Gamo highlands of Southern Ethiopia.Methods: The study was based on survey data collected from 11 villages in 2011/2012. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 335 farm households. A structured interview schedule and observation were used to collect primary data. Descriptive and inferential statistics and Logistic regression model were used to analyze the data.Results: The key findings showed that a host of factors significantly influenced smallholders’ decision to practice conservational tree growing. The study found that tree growing experience, age of the household head, farm size, and availability of suitable land area for tree growing and cash income from sales of trees were the significant factors explaining the variation in conservational tree growing behavior of households. The study also observed that indigenous social and cultural organizations and religious and old-aged funeral sites were the homes for old-aged but live indigenous tree species than private farms.Conclusion: Based on the findings, the study concluded that intra-farmer experience sharing, and support to efficient indigenous institutions and rural tree markets as potential entry points for mitigating deforestation, improving forestry, and developing environmentally sustainable agriculture.
Adoption and Handling Information Communication Technology as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living for Aging-in-Place in Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Lai Frank HY , Tong Angela Yuk-chung , Yan Elaine Wai-hung , Fung Ada Wai-tung , Yu Kathy Ka-ying , Tsui Wing Sze , Lai Cynthia Yuen-yi
Published: October 2020

(Background) The use of information communication technology and smartphone application are crucial to individuals’ functional independence of community living. Previous studies did not reveal how older adults’ in applying the information communication technology will affect their aging-in-place in our contemporary community. (Methods) This study aimed at developing the psychometric properties of the instrument named Advanced Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (AIADL), and to explore the adoption and handling information communication technology in instrumental activities of daily living for aging-in-place of older adults. 100 home-living participants who are functionally and socially independent, 100 hostel-living participants who are functionally independent but need social assistance, and 100 care-and-attention home living participants who need environment support and assistance in daily functioning were recruited for this study. (Results) AIADL showed good test-retest reliability and good-to-excellent internal consistency. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure with “home living and management” and “community living”. Validity analysis with the known-groups method showed a high overall accuracy of prediction of individuals’ capability of independent living in the community. (Conclusions) AIADL is a valid and reliable instrument to assess older adults’ ability in handling contemporary instrumental activities in their daily life. This instrument can serve as a reference in measuring individuals’ ability of aging-in-place.
Family Function and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Low-Income Residents with Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study in Central China
Authors: Wang Xiao-Xiao , Zhang Wen-Yan , Zhang Meng , Zhou Jing , Mao Zhong-Min , Liu Yu
Published: October 2020

Backgroud Family is the most important social support available to hypertensive patients, which may affect their health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and health outcomes. However, data on the relationship between family function and HRQOL among hypertensive residents are sparse, particularly for those low-income residents with hypertension. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of family function on physical and mental health among low-income residents with hypertension in Central China, and to explore the independent contributions of socio-demographic variables, health-related factors and family function to each domain of HRQOL. Methods This cross-sectional, community-based survey, studied 295 low-income residents with hypertension. Family function was measured using the Family APGAR Index (Adaptation, Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve). HRQOL was assessed using the SF-12 Questionnaire. Clustered multiple linear regressions were used to analyze the independent contributions of family function to each domain of HRQOL.Results 35.90% of low-income hypertensive residents had highly functional family. Multiple regression analyses showed that those with higher Family APGAR scores obtained higher general health (β=0.168, P=0.008), bodily pain(β=0.167, P=0.008), mental component summary (β=0.330, P<0.001), role limitations due to emotional problems (β=0.138, P=0.022), mental health (β=0.302, P<0.001), vitality (β=0.264, P<0.001), and social function (β=0.312, P<0.001) scores, whereas no independent contribution of family function to physical component summary was observed. On these subscales, the independent contributions of family function accounted for 15.75%, 14.29%, 39.63%, 5.47%, 94.67%, 51.92% and 57.58%, respectively (more than all socio-demographic and health-related variables in the MH, VT and SF domains). Conclusion Family function was significantly associated with HRQOL among low-income hypertensive residents. This relation holds for both mental component summary and each of its individual domains, as well as partial physical domains.
Transition from Metabolically Healthy to Unhealthy Associated with Risk of Carotid Artery Plaque in Chinese Adults
Authors: Tan Tao , Zhou Yiquan , Wan Yanping , Fan Zhuping , Xu Renying , Gao Xiang
Published: October 2020

Background: Limited data focused the transition from metabolically healthy to metabolic abnormalities on future risk of developing carotid artery plaque (CAP). We aimed to evaluate the association between the shift of metabolic status and future risk of CAP in community-based Chinese adults.Methods: Blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin A1c, lipid profiles, and carotid artery B ultrasonography were annually assessed throughout the study. Metabolically healthy were defined as participants without history of metabolic diseases and cancer but with normal value of aforementioned parameters at baseline (2013). If any of these parameters became abnormal during follow up, it was considered as the transition. Results: Included were 9,836 Chinese adults (4,085 males and 5,751 females) who were metabolically healthy at baseline aged 35.8±9.0 years. The most two common types of metabolic abnormalities during five years of follow up was high blood pressure (cumulative proportion: 36.4%) and impaired glucose regulation (20.1%). We have identified 133 incident cases of CAP during follow up. Compared to those who remained metabolically healthy, the transition to high blood pressure, high total cholesterol, high low-density lipoprotein cholesterols, or dyslipidemia was associated with high risk of developing carotid artery plaque (Hazards ratios (HRs) ranged from 1.69 to 2.34; p<0.05 for all). The transition to impaired glucose regulation, high total triglycerides, and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterols, was associated with high risk of carotid artery plaque only in participants with metabolically healthy overweight at baseline (HR ranged from 1.95 to 4.62; p <0.05 for all).Conclusions: The transition from baseline metabolically healthy to metabolic abnormalities, was associated with high risk of incident carotid artery plaque.
Role of TROP2, Cyclin D1 and FOXP3 in Bladder Carcinoma in Egyptian Patients: An Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Al-sharaky Dalia Rifaat , Abdelwahed Moshira Mohammed , Kassem Hend Ahmad Abdou , Abdelnaby Abdelnaby Saied
Published: October 2020

BackgroundIn Egypt, Urinary bladder carcinoma is a common malignancy accounting for 14.3% of total malignancies in both sexes with 3:1 male to female ratio. It comprises 88.3% of the total urinary system tumors. To reduce bladder cancer morbidity and mortality there is an urgent need to identify novel tumor marker which are specific enough for prognosis and can serve as effective anticancer targets .Therefore the purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of TROP2, CYCLIN D1, FOXP3 and their relationship with the established clinico-pathological parameters and overall survival of bladder cancer in Egyptian patientsMethodsUsing the standard immunohistochemical technique, TROP2, CYCLIN D1 and FOXP3 expression in 80 primary bladder carcinomas and 20 specimens as non neoplastic group were assessed. The bladder carcinoma cases included 50 cases with muscle invasive bladder cancer and 30 cases with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer ResultsOverexpression of both TROP2 and FOXP3 implied poor prognostic impact as significantly associated with muscle invasive bladder cancer, high grade, advanced stage, lymph node involvement and high mitotic count. Cyclin D1 displayed an inverse relation with both TROP2 and FOXP3 reflecting a favorable prognostic impact. Tumoral FOXP3 expression is directly correlated with peritumoral FOXP3+ lymphocytes expression. TROP2, CYCLIN D1, FOXP3 expression didn’t affect the overall survival of the studied sample.ConclusionsThe inverse relation between Cyclin D1 and TROP2 proposes consumption of Cyclin D1 by TROP2 as a ligand in the urinary bladder carcinogenesis. Strong diffuse overexpression of both TROP2, and FOXP3 could be promising potential biomarkers for identifying patients with poor prognostic factors in bladder cancer serving as potential targets for cancer therapy.
Conventional Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma With Intralobular Lymphatic Dissemination Shows More Aggressive Features
Authors: Lei Yuanyuan , Huang Wenting , Yu Qiuxiao , Feng Sha , Shen Guihua , Yuan Lijuan
Published: October 2020

Objective: To investigate the invasive capability and other clinicopathological features of conventional papillary thyroid carcinoma (CVPTC) with intralobular lymphatic dissemination.Methods: Seventy-three CVPTC patients receiving total thyroidectomy were analyzed in this study. The expression of BRAF-V600E, D2-40 and CD31 in all thyroid samples was detected by immunohistochemical staining (IHC). The results were evaluated by two pathologists and were statistically analyzed. In addition, the rate of positive BRAF-V600E expression and the clinical invasiveness of CVPTC with intralobular dissemination (ID-CVPTC), multiple primary CVPTC (MP-CVPTC) and single focus CVPTC (SF-CVPTC) were evaluated. The correlation between BRAF-V600E expression, lymphatic vessel density (LVD), microvessel density (MVD) and the clinicopathological characteristics of CVPTC were assessed.Results: Twenty-five ID-CVPTC, 17 MP-CVPTC and 31 SF-CVPTC cases were included in this study. The positive expression rate of BRAF-V600E in ID-CVPTC (92.0%) was significantly higher than that in MP-CVPTC (70.6%) and SF-CVPTC (71.0%), while no significant difference in expression between MP-CVPTC and SF-CVPTC was detected (P > 0.05). The expression of BRAF-V600E was not related to clinicopathological features, including age, gender, lymph node metastasis (LNM), bilateral involvement, presence of vascular tumor thrombus, capsule invasion, nerve invasion or the maximum tumor diameter (P > 0.05). The LVD in the ID-CVPTC group (9.74 ± 2.98) was higher than that in the non-ID-CVPTC group (7.46 ± 2.5) (P < 0.05). Compared with cases without adenolobar dissemination, ID-CVPTC was associated with a younger age, higher LNM rate, and increased capsule and vessel invasiveness (P < 0.05).Conclusions: ID-CVPTC shows more aggressive features, and intralobular lymphatic dissemination may be a potential biological indicator of poor prognosis.
Selection and Evaluation of Suitable Tree Species in Drought and High-dust Coal Base in Northwest China
Authors: Zhu Xiaofang , Cao Bing , WANG XING , Zhao Siming , Zhang Hao , Gao Deping , Duan Yongfeng
Published: October 2020

To select drought-resistant and dust-tolerant tree species suitable for being planted in a drought-ridden and high-dust coal base in northwest China, we used nine tree species to determine the growth status, biomass, harm index, and photosynthetic characteristics under drought and highly dusty stress conditions. The results showed that in the drought resistance index system, their cumulative contribution rate reached 98.1%, and the drought resistance order was Ammopiptanthus mongolicus > Hedysarum scoparium > Sabina vulgaris >Caragana korshinskii > Ulmus pumila > Amorpha fruticosa > Caryopteris mongholica > Tamarix chinensis > Elaeagnus angustifolia. In the dust resistance index system, the cumulative contribution rate reached 95.2%. The dust resistance order was Caragana korshinskii > Amorpha fruticosa > Sabina vulgaris > Hedysarum scoparium > Tamarix chinensis > Ammopiptanthus mongolicus > Ulmus pumila > Caryopteris mongholica > Elaeagnus angustifolia. In the drought and dust resistance comprehensive index system, 14 indices (shoot length, stomatal conductance, and POD) had larger weights and the cumulative contribution of comprehensive indices reached 100%. The drought and dust resistance order of the test tree species was Caragana korshinskii > Ulmus pumila > Amorpha fruticosa > Sabina vulgaris > Caryopteris mongholica > Ammopiptanthus mongolicus > Hedysarum scoparium > Tamarix chinensis > Elaeagnus angustifolia. These results provided a reference for the selection of suitable greening tree species in accordance with local conditions in drought-mining areas.
Long-Term Bacterial Fertilizer Application Improves Eucalyptus Growth and Yields through Altering Soil Quality
Authors: Ren Han , Qin Xiaohong , Lv Chengqun , Fernández-García Víctor , Xie Chuan
Published: October 2020

Sludge and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are widely used to improve soil quality and plant growth. In this study we aim to determine the responses of soil enzyme activities, soil nutrient contents and plant growth to fertilization with sludge and PGPR (Bacillus megaterium strain DU07). To achieve this goal, we planted bare-root eucalyptus seedlings with soil amended with (1) filtered sludge from sugar factory (FS), (2) filtered sludge + PGPR (BF) and (3) non-amended soil (control). Soil properties (soil nutrients and soil extracellular enzymatic activities) and eucalyptus growth (diameter, height and stem volume) were studied 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after treatments. Results indicated that BF significantly increased plant height, diameter, and stem volume after the sixth month. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that soil quality was significantly increased by BF during our trial period, especially after the ninth month. The pooled regression model indicated that soil quality significantly and positively affected eucalyptus yield, whereas soil TN was negatively and significantly related to plant stem volume. Hence, our study indicates that the application of a bacterial fertilizer increases plant growth and yield via increasing soil quality. Thus, our findings suggest that PGPR amendments could be useful as bio-fertilizer to improve soil-plant interactions in eucalyptus plantations.
The Role of CBLL1 in the Prognosis and Immune Infiltration of Pan-Cancer
Authors: Guo Qiang , Li Dan , Ji Yanmei , Guo Jialong
Published: October 2020

ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the role of CBLL1 in pan-carcinoma and tumor immune infiltrates. MethodsDownload mRNA expression, mutation and clinical data in UCSC database, to analyze the relationship between CBLL1 expression and clinicopathological vlaue, and immune microenvironment in pan-cancer. CIBERSORT was used to analyze the relationship between CBLL1 expression and the infiltration of pan-carcinoma immune cells. The mRNA expression data of UCSC database were used to analyze the correlation between CBLL1 expression and pan-cancer immunomodulations, checkpoints and receptor molecules. ResultsThe levels of CBLL1 mRNA expression in pan-cancer tissues were abnormal. The level of CBLL1 is related to the age, race, clinical stage and treatment effect of patients with pan-carcinoma and associated with the prognosis of patients with KIRC, LUSC, THCA, THYM, MESO, PRAD, STAD, and UVM. Univariate COX regression analysis showed that expression of CBLL1 was a risk factor for poor prognosis in patients with KICH, KIRC, LAML, THYM, KIRC, PCPG, OV, PRAD, STAD, GBM and UVM. The expression level of CBLL1 was correlated with BLCA, BRCA, COAD, LAML, LGG, LUAD, LUSC, SARC, STAD, THCA, THYM and UVM tumor mutational burden, and with ACC, BRCA, CESC, COAD, DLBC, HNSC, PRAD, READ, SARC, STAD, TGCT, THCA and UCEC microsatellite instability. The expression level of CBLL1 was correlated with cancer stromal cells and immune cells. The expression of CBLL1 is related to pan-cancer immunomodulators, checkpoints and receptor molecules. ConclusionCBLL1 is abnormally expressed in patients with pan-carcinoma, which is expected to be a biomarker for prognosis, mutation and immune infiltration in patients with pan-carcinoma.