bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival-Associated Differentially Expressed Alternative Splicing Signatures Reveal Neuron Signaling and Metabolism-Related Processes in Glioblastoma
Authors: Ge Yanshan , Zhang Zhaoyu , Liu Qiang , Wu Minghua
Published: April 2021

BackgroundAlternative splicing (AS) is a molecular event that drives protein diversity by generating multiple mRNA isoforms. Increasing evidence shows that the differential expression of AS is related to tumorigenesis. However, a synthetic analysis for identifying the AS biomarkers attributed to glioblastoma (GBM) is mostly unexplored. MethodsAS percent-splice-in (PSI) data were obtained from the TCGA SpliceSeq database. We systematically and interactively analyzed differentially expressed alternative splicing (DEAS) events in GBM. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis was successively performed to identify the overall survival (OS)-associated DEAS events, followed by the construction of DEAS predictor through different splicing patterns. Then, a nomogram that combines the final DEAS predictor and clinicopathological characteristics was established. Finally, a splicing regulatory network was created according to the correlation between the DEAS events and the splicing factors (SF). Summary illustrations show Figure1.ResultsA total of 2697 DEAS events detected in 2206 gene symbols consisted of 1054 upregulated DEAS events and 1643 downregulated DEAS events. Notably, these DEAS events are mainly involved in neuron-synapse signaling and metabolism-related processes in GBM. We identified 135 DEAS events that were substantially associated with the overall survival of GBM patients; for example, the alternate promoter (AP) of GSG1L and alternate terminator (AT) of CDKL3 were associated with poor prognosis, whereas AP of TMEM63, exon skip (ES) of CPEB4, AT of FAM13A, AT of OBSL1, AT of HNF1A, and AT of CCDC40 were associated with good prognosis. Following this, we constructed a potential splicing factor (SF)-AS regulatory network and identified nine key SFs, including ELAVL4, CELF3, CELF5, RBFOX1, YWHAH, STXBP1, CELF4, ELAVL2, and DNM1, which are mainly involved in RNA metabolism and insulin synthesis. ConclusionsIn summary, we demonstrated the role of DEAS events in the progression of GBM, providing a potential clinical biomarker and therapeutic reference for GBM.
Increased expression of homeobox 5 predicts poor prognosis: A potential therapeutic target for glioma
Authors: Xu Chengran , Huang Jinhai , Yang Yi , Li Lun , Li Guangyu
Published: April 2021

Background: The homeobox gene 5 (HOXB5) encodes a transcription factor that regulates the central nervous system embryonic development. Of note, its expression pattern and prognostic role in glioma remain unelucidated. This study aimed to identify the relationship between HOXB5 and glioma by investigating the HOXB5 expression data from the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and The Genotype Tissue Expression (GTEx) databases and validating the obtained data using the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) database. Kaplan-Meier and univariate cox regression analyses were performed to assess the prognostic value of HOXB5. The key functions and signaling pathways of HOXB5 were analyzed using GSEA and GSVA. Immune infiltration was calculated using Microenvironment Cell Populations-counter (MCP-counter), single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA), and ESTIMATE algorithms.Result: HOXB5 expression was elevated in glioma tissues. The increased levels of HOXB5 were significantly correlated with a higher WHO grade and aggressive cancer phenotypes. HOXB5 overexpression represented a risk factor that was associated with shorter overall survival (OS) while exhibiting a moderate forecast efficiency in most clinical subgroups. These results were validated using the CGGA and Rembrandt datasets. Furthermore, the functional analysis showed enrichment of angiogenesis, the IL6/JAK-STAT3 pathway, and inflammatory response in the tissues that showed high expression of HOXB5. Lastly, the high expression of HOXB5 was associated with enrichment of Tregs and MDSCs, and HOXB5 expression was shown to play a role in several immune checkpoint genes.Conclusions: HOXB5 may serve as a predictive factor of glioma malignancy and prognostic status and represents potential as a molecular treatment candidate.
Activation of adenosine receptor A2a by gut symbionts promotes immune tolerance
Authors: Kostic Aleksandar , Xu Tao , Zhao Lidan , Islam Md Zohorul , Pham Loc-Duyen , Corsi Martina , Phillips Gregory , Wannemuehler Michael , Benoist Christophe
Published: April 2021

The gut microbiota is critical to immune homeostasis, but our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms is very limited. Here, we demonstrate a division of labor among members of the eight-membered “model microbiome” altered Schaedler flora in promoting distinct immunophenotypes. We report that Parabacteroides goldsteinii ASF519 induces immune tolerance by promoting interleukin (IL)-10 production in a variety of myeloid-derived immune cells. The IL-10 induction is dependent on the activation of adenosine receptor A2a by microbial enzymes of the methionine cycle. ASF519 colonization in mice increased the level of adenosine in ceca and induced IL-10 secreting dendritic cells in colonic lamina propria. These immunophenotypes were pharmacologically reversed by A2a blockage. In mouse models of human autoimmune diseases, ASF519 supplementation significantly ameliorated insulitis in type 1 diabetes and collagen-induced arthritis. This study unveils a novel paradigm of gut microbiota-adenosine receptor interactions in immune tolerance and potentially provides a new therapeutic strategy for immune disorders.
Prospective Observational Study of Factors Related to the Movement Subscale Score of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip-Disease Evaluation Questionnaire Six Months After Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Sekita Junya , Takahira Naonobu , Iwamura Genki , Kusaba Atsushi , Kondo Saiji
Published: April 2021

Background

The movement subscale score of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip-Disease Evaluation Questionnaire (JHEQ) is reportedly lower than other subscale scores after total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to assess factors related to the movement subscale score of the JHEQ six months after THA.
Methods

Participants were 90 female patients with hip osteoarthritis who underwent THA. We examined clinical background factors and surgical information, and measured hip joint range of motion, lower extremity muscle strength, maximum walking speed, physical activity, Japanese Orthopaedic Association score, and JHEQ score. We also measured the number of steps and “fast walking time” as physical activity, and calculated the moderate intensity activity ratio. A stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors related to high and low movement subscale scores.
Results

Six months after surgery, the total score and all subscale scores of the JHEQ were significantly higher compared to preoperative scores (p < 0.01). The movement subscale score was lower compared to other subscale scores (p < 0.01). The stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that preoperative movement subscale score (odds ratio: 1.26, 95%CI: 1.08–1.47, p = 0.003), activities of daily living category of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association hip score (odds ratio: 1.66, 95%CI: 1.18–2.33, p = 0.004), and moderate intensity activity ratio (odds ratio: 1.05, 95%CI: 1.00-1.11, p = 0.035) are factors that determine high and low movement subscale scores.
Conclusion

The postoperative movement subscale score is related to not only the ability to conduct activities of daily living and preoperative movement subscale score, but also the moderate intensity activity ratio.
SARS-CoV2, A Threat to Marine Mammals? A Study From Italian Seawaters
Authors: Audino Tania , Grattarola Carla , Centelleghe° Cinzia , Peletto Simone , Giorda Federica , Florio Caterina Lucia , Caramelli Maria , Bozzetta Maria Elena , Mazzariol Sandro , Guardo Giovanni Di , Lauriano Giancarlo , Casalone Cristina
Published: April 2021

Zoonotically transmitted coronaviruses were responsible for three disease outbreaks since 2002, with the “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2” (SARS-CoV-2) causing the dramatic “Coronavirus Disease-2019” (CoViD-19) pandemic, which affected public health, economy, and society on a global scale. The impacts of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic permeate into our environment and wildlife as well; in particular, concern has been raised about the viral occurrence and persistence in aquatic and marine ecosystems. The discharge of untreated wastewaters carrying infectious SARS-CoV-2 into natural water systems that are home of sea mammals may have dramatic consequences on vulnerable species. The efficient transmission of coronaviruses raises questions regarding the contributions of virus-receptors interactions. The main receptor of SARS-CoV-2 is Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE-2), serving as a functional receptor for the viral spike (S) protein. This study was aimed, through the comparative analysis of the ACE-2 receptor with the human one, at assessing the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 of the different species of marine mammals living in Italian waters. We also determined, by means of immunohistochemistry, ACE-2 receptor localization in the lung tissue from different cetacean species, in order to provide a preliminary characterization of ACE-.2 expression in the marine mammals’ respiratory tract. Furthermore, in order to evaluate if and how wastewater management in Italy may lead to susceptible marine mammal populations being exposed to the virus, geo-mapping data of wastewater plants, associated to the identification of specific stretches of coast more exposed to extreme weather events, overlapped to marine mammal population data, were carried out. Results showed the SARS-CoV-2 exposure for marine mammals inhabiting Italian coastal waters. Thus, we highlight the potential hazard of reverse zoonotic transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection, along with its impact on marine mammals regularly inhabiting the Mediterranean Sea, whilst also stressing the need of appropriate action to prevent further damage to specific vulnerable populations.
Superiority of Mild Interventions Against COVID-19 on Public Health and Economic Measures
Authors: Niwa Makoto , Hara Yasushi , Matsuo Yusuke , Narita Hodaka , Lim Yeongjoo , Sengoku Shintaro , KODAMA KOTA
Published: April 2021

During the global spread of COVID-19, Japan has been among the top countries to maintain a relatively low number of infections, despite implementing limited institutional interventions. Using a Tokyo Metropolitan dataset, this study investigated how these limited intervention policies have affected public health and economic conditions in the COVID-19 context. A causal loop analysis suggested that there were risks to prematurely terminating such interventions. On the basis of this result and subsequent quantitative modelling, we found that the short-term effectiveness of a short-term pre-emptive stay-at-home request caused a resurgence in the number of positive cases, whereas an additional request provided a limited negative add-on effect for economic measures (e.g. the number of electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) communications and restaurant visits). These findings suggest the superiority of a mild and continuous intervention as a long-term countermeasure under epidemic pressures when compared to strong intermittent interventions.
The first principle calculation of improving p-type characteristics of BXAl1-xN
Authors: Lu Zhengqian , Wang Fang , Liu Yuhuai
Published: April 2021

AlN is one of the third-generation semiconductor materials with wide application prospects due to its 6.2eV band gap. In the application of semiconductor deep ultraviolet lasers, progress is slow due to the difficulty in obtaining p-type AlN with good performance. In this paper, the commonly used Mg dopants are abandoned, and the research on BAlN alloys is replaced. The improvement of the p-type properties of AlN crystals by B composition is studied by first-principles calculations. The results show that the addition of B composition can significantly inhibit the intrinsic n-type performance of AlN, which is beneficial to the formation of p-type AlN. At the same time, it has been found that when the composition of B reaches 19.5%, the BAlN compound semiconductor changes from n-type characteristics to p-type characteristics. PACS: 61.72.uj, 71.55.Eq, 73.61.Ey
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection of Pseudo-polyps in the Right Colon Using a Flexible Grasper With Articulating Distal Tip and Elbow-Like Bending
Authors: Urakawa Shinya , Hirashita Teijiro , Hirashita Yuka , Lowenfeld Lea , Gurram Krishna , Nishimura Makoto , Milsom Jeffrey
Published: April 2021

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is challenging in the right colon. Traction devices can make it technically easier. In this study, we evaluated a flexible grasper with articulating tip and elbow-like bending (IgE) through a double-balloon surgical platform (DESP), compared with an earlier generation grasper without elbow-like bending (Ig). The reach of Ig/IgE was investigated at eight locations using a synthetic colon within a 3D model. Using a fresh porcine colorectum, 4 cm pseudo-polyps were created at the posterior wall of the ascending colon. Fifty-four ESD procedures were performed using three techniques: standard ESD (STD), ESD using Ig (DESP+Ig), and ESD using IgE (DESP+IgE). IgE was able to reach the full circumference at all the locations, whereas the medial walls proximal to the descending colon were out of Ig’s reach. Compared with the STD, both DESP+Ig and DESP+IgE showed significantly shorter procedure time (STD vs. DESP+Ig vs. DESP+IgE = median 48.9 min vs. 38.6 vs. 29.9) and fewer injuries (1.5 vs. 0 vs. 0). Moreover, the DESP+IgE had a shorter procedure time than the DESP+Ig (p=0.0025). The IgE with DESP increased instrument reach compared to Ig, and likely represented a traction tool for excision of large pseudo-polyps in the right colon.
Rapid Exome Sequencing for Critically Ill Children: Implementation and Challenges in the Asian Context
Authors: Fong Nikki , Lim Jiin Ying , Cham Breana , Kam Sylvia , Goh Chew Yin , Wei Heming , Tan Yuen Ming , Ee Hui Jing , Ching Leng Kee , Low Wendy , Kuan Jyn Ling , Law Hai Yang , Kong Juin Yee , Loh Lik Eng , Koh Ai Ling , Ting Teck Wah , Lai Angeline , Ng Ivy , Lim Weng Khong , Tan Ee Shien , Tan Ene Choo , Jamuar Saumya Shekhar
Published: April 2021

Objective: Use rapid next-generation sequencing (NGS) to improve our diagnostic yield in critically ill paediatric patients with suspected genetic disorders in the Asian setting.Design: A diagnostic study conducted between April 2018 and January 2019.Methods: Next-generation sequencing was performed with the TruSight One gene panel (targeting 4813 genes) followed by MiSeq sequencing on 10 patients who presented with suspected genetic disorders as assessed by their attending physicians. Results: In 4 of the 10 cases (40%), a genetic diagnosis was achieved, with one further case diagnosed on re-analysis of data 2 years later. The median turn-around time (TAT) for results was 9.5 working days (range 5-19 days). Challenges faced during implementation included sample availability, managing parental and primary physician expectations, cost of testing, and bioinformatic resources.Conclusion: RapidSeq is an effective method for diagnosing patients with rare diseases, which aids in shortening the diagnostic odyssey, while allowing clinicians to appropriately tailor management for the underlying disorder, and provide accurate genetic counselling for families. However, challenges such as cost and insurance implications still remain a barrier to more widespread use of genomic testing in the local setting, and continued efforts will be required to optimise RapidSeq for use in paediatric patients in the ICU.
Lesion Scores, Oocysts Output, Hematological and Histopathological Changes of the 7 Days Life Cycle of Eimeria Tenella in Broilers.
Authors: Nonkookhetkhong Tippayaporn , Chalalai Thanyakorn
Published: April 2021

Eimeria tenella is a protozoa which is a causative agent of avian cecal coccidiosis. The disease results in bleeding, diarrhea, weight losses, high morbidity and mortality in chickens. This study investigated lesion scores, oocysts output, hematological and histopathological changes of the 7 days life cycle of E. tenella. Fifty-six, broilers were randomly divided into 2 groups of which group 1 were uninfected and group 2 were infected with 2x104 E. tenella oocysts. Lesion scores and oocyst output of the infected group were significantly higher than in the uninfected group at 5, 6 and 7 dpi (p < 0.05). PCV was significantly lower than in the uninfected group at 3 to 7 dpi (p < 0.05). WBC count was significantly higher than in the uninfected group at 4 dpi (p < 0.05). Lymphocytes and heterophils were significantly higher than in the uninfected group at 4 dpi (p < 0.05). Monocytes were significantly higher than in the uninfected group from 3 to 5 dpi (p < 0.05). The developmental stages of E. tenella in cecum tissue during the 7 days life cycle included trophozoite at 2 dpi, first generation of schizonts at 3 dpi, secondary generation of merozoites and schizonts at 4 and 5 dpi and gametocytes and oocysts at 6 and 7 dpi. These finding suggest that monocytes were the most effective white blood cell on E. tenella infection and secondary generation schizonts was the most pathogenic developmental stage of E. tenella.
Ruthenium(III) Based Diimine Complexes; Synthesis, Characterization, PXRD Study and Catalytic Hydrogenation of Cyclohexene
Authors: Ramadan Abd El-Motaleb M , Ibrahim Mohamed M. , Mersal Gaber A. M. , Fathy Ahmed M. , El-Hendawy Morad M. , Al-Harbi Sami A. , Al-Saidi Hamed M.
Published: April 2021

This study deals with preparation and characterization of a group of RuIII-chelates contains tetradentate diimine ligands. These quadridentate ligands are derived from 2-OH-1-naphthaldehyde and a number of aliphatic diamines where the number of methylene groups between the two azomethine nitrogen donors varied from two to six are the components of quadridentate ligands. The pure isolated compounds were subjected to several physicochemical investigations to assign their structures. Spectral and magnetic measurements suggested a distorted octahedral arrangement of the six coordinate diimine ruthenium(III) complexes. The structural optimization for one of the current RuIII-complexes was determined based on the processing of powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) data by the computer program Expo 2014 PXRD. As well DFT calculations were applied to optimize the geometry in the case of complexes 1. The newly synthesized ruthenium(III) diimines were tested as catalysts for hydrogenation of cyclohexene. The effect of the catalyst structure and the type of catalysis as well as the nature and amount of the solvent used on the catalytic performance of the current catalysts were studied. Catalytic experiments reported that the ongoing ruthenium(III) complexes are promising precatalysts that have successfully catalyzed hydrogenation of cyclohexene by hydrogen gas under moderate process conditions. The results obtained allowed to establish a mechanism for the studied catalytic hydrogenation reactions.
Rationale and Design of the Application Value of Beijing Vascular Health Stratification (BVHS) : Predictive Value of Combined Assessment of Vascular Structure and Function for Cardiovascular Events in General Chinese Population
Authors: Liu Huan , Zhou Feng , Liu jinbo , huang wei , Zhao na , Zhou xiaohua , Wang hongyu
Published: April 2021

Vascular endothelial dysfunction, arteriosclerosis and atherosclerotic plaque are well-known risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Studies on vascular health markers have been well-established, however, there is still a lack of related research on combined vascular structure and function indicators. Beijing vascular health stratification (BVHS) is an evaluation system aiming at vascular health, combined the endothelial function, arteriosclerosis, atherosclerotic plaque and vascular lumen stenosis to comprehensively assess the vascular health and grade it. This study will explore the predictive value of the combined evaluation of vascular structure and function for cardiovascular events and assess the predictive value of BVHS and compare it with the existing risk assessment systems. A total of 1,500 subjects will be enrolled into the prospective cohort study from a community and will be followed up for at least 3 years from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2023. Subjects aged 40 or above, without coronary heart disease, stroke or peripheral artery disease, with written informed consent will be included; subjects with end-stage hepatorenal diseases (uremia, renal failure, cirrhosis, liver failure), mental disorders or cognitive disorders, with any other factors that the researcher thinks are not suitable for the study will be excluded. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors will be collected as adjusted confounders. BVHS is a potential and scientific vascular health evaluation system. The study will be the first to grade vascular health by combing various vascular indicators and explore the prediction value and compare with other risk prediction system in general Chinese population.
Effect of Salt Stress on Some Physio-Biochemical Traits and Antioxidative Enzymes of Two Brassica Species Under Callus Culture
Authors: Shahbazi Ehsan , Jamei Shima , Meratan Ali Akbar , Mohammadi Payam Pour
Published: April 2021

The changes in lipid peroxidation, H2O2, proline, protein and the involvement of the different antioxidant system (catalase, gayacoule peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase) and callus-related traits were investigated in relation to salt stress in the callus of two different ploidy levels of Brassica including B. juncea and B. oleracea. The calluses of B. juncea genotypes were less sensitive to NaCl stress than that of B. oleraceae by increasing concentrations of NaCl from 0 to 200 mM.Tetraploid genotype (B. juncea cr3356) showed significant increase in the contents of protein and proline, and also activity of giacle peroxidase and catalase enzymes at higher salinity levels. Also, a significant decrease in the amount of H2O2 and malondialdehyde occurred with increasing the salinity intensity. Diploid cultivar (B. oleracea bra 2828) had the lowest enzymatic activities and the highest content of H2O2 and malondialdehyde with an increase in the salinity level. Therefore, this genotype was identified as the most sensitive cultivar to the salinity stress. The difference in the salinity resistance between diploid and amphidiploid species may be due to differences in the ploidy level of these species. This result suggests that tetraploid genome of B. oleraceae could be considered as a suitable candidate for production under salinity conditions by maintaining higher activities of antioxidant enzymes.
Prevalence, Incidence, and Epidemic Trends of Osteoarthritis Among Adults in Beijing, China, From 2008 to 2017
Authors: Chen Hongbo , Wu Junhui , Wang Zijing , Wu Yao , Wu Tao , Wu Yiqun , Wang Mengying , Wang Siyue , Wang Xiaowen , Wang Jiating , Yu Huan , Hu Yonghua , Shang Shaomei
Published: April 2021

Objective

To estimate the prevalence, incidence, and epidemic trend of diagnosed osteoarthritis from 2008 to 2017 in Beijing, China.
Methods

This was a retrospective serial cross-sectional study. We used health-insurance claims of 17.7 million adults for 2008–2017 to identify people over 18 years-old with osteoarthritis. The population data for Beijing from China’s 6th national census were applied to standardize the results. Trends in prevalence and incidence were analyzed using joinpoint regression.
Results

We identified 2,793,467 people with osteoarthritis between 2008 and 2017, 60% of which were women. The 10-year average age-standardized prevalence and incidence of osteoarthritis in Beijing was, respectively, 5.2% and 28.5 per 1000 person-years. Prevalence increased with age, surging after 55 years-old. The average crude prevalence for this decade was 14.9% for people over 55 years-old: 10.7% for males and 20.4% for females. The prevalence showed an increasing trend from 2008 to 2017, including a period of rapid rise, with an annual percentage change of 44.3% from 2008 to 2011 (P༜0.05); the increase in prevalence was greatest in people under 35 years-old, with the an average annual percentage change of 36.1% (P < 0.05).
Conclusion

We observed that the average age-standardized prevalence of diagnosed osteoarthritis in Beijing per decade was at a low-to-medium level compared to worldwide levels. Annual prevalence increased significantly from 2008 to 2017, with osteoarthritis being diagnosed at younger ages. More public health efforts are needed to prevent osteoarthritis in China.
Power Transmission and Channel Control Approach using Learning Automata in the Internet of Things
Authors: Chen Peilin
Published: April 2021

Energy consumption management and optimal use of node resources are key elements in the Internet of Things. In this study, a framework based on cognitive topology control that acts based on the LR−I learning automata and game on it, has been used to control power, channel and contention windows and to create preventive behavior in the network. Due to the limitations of nodes in the Internet of Things, the transfer of learning automata processing to the cloud, fog and edge has been investigated to increase lifespan, reduce memory consumption and increase processing power. The communication was done based on IPv6 protocol and IEEE 802.15.4 standard. The nodes also used the uIP lightweight protocol stack and the RPL lightweight routing protocol. In order to use the sixth version of the Internet Protocol in the IEEE 802.15.4 standard platform, the 6LoWPAN protocol has been used to compress and convert headers. Computing on fog nodes has also been used to perform game calculations on automata. Finally, the Cooja simulator was used in the Contiki operating system to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed method, which showed the superiority of the proposed method in energy consumption, memory usage and processing power compared to other methods that control power and channel.
WITHDRAWN: A Severe Microsporidian Disease in Cultured Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus L.)
Authors: López-Verdejo Alejandro , Montero Francisco E. , Gándara Fernando De la , Gallego Miguel A. , Ortega Aurelio , Raga Juan Antonio , Palacios-Abella José F.
Published: April 2021

One of the most promising aquaculture species is the Atlantic bluefin tuna ( Thunnus thynnus ) with high market value; disease control is crucial to prevent and reduce mortality and monetary losses. Microsporidia Balbiani, 1882 (Fungi) are a potential source of damage to bluefin tuna aquaculture. A new microsporidian species is described from farmed bluefin tunas from the Spanish Mediterranean. This new pathogen is described in a juvenile associated with a highly severe pathology of the visceral cavity. Whitish xenomes from this microsporidian species were mostly located at the caecal mass and ranged from 0.2 to 7.5 mm. Light and transmission electron microscopy of the spores revealed mature spores with an average size of 2.2 × 3.9 μm in size and a polar filament with 13–14 coils arranged in one single layer. Phylogenetic analysis clustered this species with the Glugea spp. clade. The morphological characteristics and molecular comparison confirm that this is a novel microsporidian species, Glugea thunni sp. nov. The direct life cycle and the severe pathologies observed makes this parasite a hard risk for bluefin tuna cultures.
The Resources of Oil-rich Coals in China
Authors: Ning Shuzheng , Zhang Li , Shu XinQian , Zhang JianQiang , Zou Zhuo , Shu Yuanfeng , Wang Danfeng , Huang Shaoqing , Liu Kang , Sun Hanying
Published: April 2021

The resource characteristics of coal-rich, oil-deficient, and low-gas have determined the need to fully exploit the advantages of coal resources in China. China holds a large amount of low-rank coal with high volatile content and high tar yield. Based on the abundant oil-rich and low-rank coal resources, resource evaluation and research on its development and utilization are of great significance to the coal geology. According to the estimated reserves, the low-rank coal reserves are about 63.86 billion tons. Among the low-rank coals, the tar yield is greater than 7%, which is called oil-rich coal. Gas and semi-coke resources, which can greatly increase the application value of this type of coal resources. The oil-rich coal resources are widely distributed in the Carboniferous-Permian, Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Neogene in China. They are mainly distributed in the three provinces of Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Xinjiang, and also Qinghai and Gansu in space. The Carboniferous-Permian oil-rich coal is mainly distributed in Shaanxi Fugu mining area, and the Triassic oil-rich coal is mainly distributed in the Zichang mining area of Shaanxi Province. It shows that the oil-rich coals are mainly lignite and long-flame coal with low metamorphism but also contains a small amount of gas coal and gas-fat coal. The tar yield and volatile content generally have a positive correlation. It has great significance to further study on the oil-rich coal resources.
Monitor to Innovate With Feedback Loops: Process Evaluation Protocol for an Anemia Prevention Intervention 
Authors: Pant Ichhya , Patro Lipika , Sedlander Erica , Gupta Kriti , Chandarana Shikha , Rimal Rajiv N.
Published: April 2021

Background: With the proliferation of the digital age, Information and Communication Technologies paired with feedback loops have the potential to facilitate process evaluations which include continuous iteration and innovation of intervention delivery. Objective: To describe how a multilevel social norms field trial is using feedback loops to innovate and enhance intervention delivery.Methods: We use a mixed-methods process evaluation design. Surveys and structured observation monitor fidelity to implementation and receptivity to implementation activities among study participants. Quantitative data evaluates implementation dose, coverage, exposure, and reach of intervention activities, and qualitative data will delve more deeply into reasons for high or low functioning. Iron folic acid supplement supply and demand are also monitored for stock-outs. Data collected from 130 intervention villages is processed, visualized, and triangulated in near to real-time via Real-time Monitoring for Knowledge Generation (RPM4K), a locally developed software application. Data visualization products facilitate the examination of monitoring data to mitigate bottlenecks and identify and implement tweaks to the RANI Project’s intervention delivery strategy on an ongoing basis. Discussion: Feedback loops assist with decision-making to facilitate timely course corrections. Feedback loops can also engender a shared understanding of ground realities for a geographically dispersed and culturally diverse team. Leveraging feedback loops, we identify opportunities to provide on-going supportive supervision for our community facilitators promoting joint problem-solving, and communication. Monthly media and hemoglobin level demonstration strategies are informed by participant engagement and receptivity. Stock-outs of iron folic acid tablets activate contingency plans to mobilize local stakeholders and advocate for timely resolutions. Unintended effects are monitored based on ongoing feedback from community facilitators.Conclusions: Documenting our processes can inform the future implementation or scale up of similar projects embracing feedback loops to iterate and innovate their intervention delivery. Trial Registration: The parent trial (RANI) was registered with Clinical Trial Registry- India (CTRI) (CTRI/2018/10/016186) on 29 October 2018.
Transfer RNA-derived Fragments in Aging Caenorhabditis Elegans Originate from Abundant Homologous Gene Copies
Authors: Shin GiWon , Koo Hee Jung , Seo Mihwa , Lee Seung-Jae V. , Nam Hong Gil , Jung Gyoo Yeol
Published: April 2021

Small RNAs that originate from transfer RNA (tRNA) species, tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), play diverse biological functions but little is known for their association with aging. Moreover, biochemical aspects of tRNAs limit discovery of functional tRFs by high throughput sequencing. In particular, genes encoding tRNAs exist as multiple copies throughout genome, and mature tRNAs have various modified bases, contributing to ambiguities for RNA sequencing-based analysis of tRFs. Here, we report age-dependent changes in tRFs that may have functional impacts on aging in Caenorhabditis elegans. We first analyzed published RNA sequencing data by using a new strategy for tRNA-associated sequencing reads. Our current method used unique mature tRNAs as a reference for the sequence alignment, and properly filtered out false positive enrichment for tRFs. Our analysis successfully distinguished de novo mutation sites from differences among homologous copies, and identified potential RNA modification sites. Importantly, we revealed that the major source of tRFs up-regulated during aging was the tRNAs with abundant gene copy numbers. Together, our work raises the possibility that age-dependent changes in tRF levels have functional roles in the lifespan of animals, including C. elegans.
Physidae (Mollusca: Gastropoda) of western and central European range - morphological diversification and ecological features
Authors: Cieplok Anna , Anderson Roy , Gawlak Magdalena , Kałuski Tomasz , Spyra Aneta
Published: April 2021

Background: This is the first comparative study on Physidae identified in west and central Europe range. A thorough exploration of morphology supported by ecological features and distribution of European Physidae species are presented within this study. In the context of the lack of research on detailed morphology features on Physidae species we deeply analysed taxonomical features of snails which are being identified more and more frequently in the last years in the territory of the west and central Europe. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods were used to elucidate the external morphology of freshwater snails (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Physidae), that occur in the area of western and central part of Europe. We compared the external morphology of their shells and found important differences between the species. Results: Morphological analysis are benefited in revealing variations of Physide shells. We found intraspecific similarities within Physidae, which are the most evident in the overall structure of shells and the height of the spires. Many interspecific differences in morphology in the apex structure and spires were found. From our results, we can infer that the shells P. fontinalis and A. hypnorum had the lowest amount of variability between particular individuals. The most characteristic features and differences of representatives of Physidae are presented and discussed. This is especially important in Physa gyrina and a worldwide invader Physa acuta identification which is shape-wise not easy to distinguish.Conclusions: The implications of our study are new identification key along with the ecological characteristic of physid species and the assessment of their current range in Europe. Our data demonstrate similarities within Physidae, which are the most evident in the overall structure of shells, and the height of the spires, apex structure, and spires were found between analysed species and provide further evidence of the importance of morphological features as an identification driver.
Economic Implications of BREXIT for Pakistan
Authors: Khan Muhammad Aamir , Husnain Muhammad Iftikhar ul
Published: April 2021

Pakistan’s trading relationship with the United Kingdom (UK) is governed through the European Union’s (EU) Single Market regulations & tariffs. Pakistan has granted a Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) plus status by the EU, which allows Pakistan commodities duty-free access to the European market. Britain’s decision to leave the EU popularly quoted as “Brexit” can have implications for Pakistan. Pakistan will no more enjoy duty-free access to the UK market. With this backdrop, this research used a new global economic trade model calibrated using the latest GTAP Database and latest Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) 2013 of Pakistan to quantify the impact of Brexit on Pakistan's Economy. Results show that with Brexit, Pakistan's Exports to the UK will decrease by 48 percent. This research recommends the Pakistani government to revisit its trade relations with the UK and should launch negotiations with the UK for attaining unilateral preferential access like EU GSP Plus.
Functional Mobility in Walking Adult Population With Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay
Authors: Lessard Isabelle , St-gelais Raphaël , Hébert Luc J , Coté Isabelle , Mathieu Jean , Brais Bernard , Gagnon Cynthia
Published: April 2021

Background: This study aimed to describe lower limbs impairments, balance and activity limitations related to indoor mobility in adult walkers with autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS). Results: Twenty-five participants were recruited with a mean age of 32.2 (±10.4) years with 45.7 % using a walking aid. There is a significant difference between participants with and without a walking aid in terms of lower limbs coordination, balance and mobility. Although participants who walk without a walking aid perform better than the others and they are below predictive or reference values. Despite significant mobility limitations, only mild spasticity and passive range of motion limitations were observed. However, there is a significant difference between unaffected individuals and participants with ARSACS for lower limb muscle cocontraction. Conclusions: Results show a high level of lower limb impairments, balance and mobility limitation in adults’ participants with ARSACS that are still walking, including people not using a walking aid. One of the most original finding is the presence of excessive cocontraction and a relatively mild level of spasticity in the lower limbs muscles. Results of this study better circumscribes the impairments and activities that should be the focus of intervention including rehabilitation in ARSACS.
Feature Analysis of Prognostic Factors for the Radiation Toxicity Prediction of Lung Cancer Using Explainable Outcome Representation Method
Authors: Kim Kwang Hyeon , Sohn Moon-Jun , Koo Hae-Won , Yoon Sang-Won , Heo Eun Jeong , Lee Nam Kwon , Kim Chul Yong , Lee Suk
Published: April 2021

BackgroundThe method of solely using a black box model for radiation toxicity prediction in patients with lung cancer has limitations in explaining the causality of the prediction results. Therefore, the feature importance of predictors was analyzed using explainable artificial intelligence.Materials and MethodsPredictions were made for the clinical prognosis through SHAP analysis (Shapley additive explanations) by using pneumonia, interstitial lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, concurrent chemoradiation therapy, age, and dosimetric factors [lung volume receiving ≥20 Gy (V20), mean lung dose (MLD)] as prognostic factors in 110 lung cancer patients who received radiation therapy. The model was analyzed using a random forest regressor and a tree explainer; and the SHAP analysis was used to examine the features of prognostic factors affecting radiation side effects and to derive mutual impact.ResultsFor patients with grade 2 toxicity, pneumonia, MLD, and V30 were analyzed as very important factors in the prediction results. However, for grade 0 toxicity patients, V30 and MLD were identified as the predictors that had a more important impact (SHAP value=0.7) than pneumonia. In addition, pneumonia had a decisive influence on the prognosis for future side effects of grades 1 and 2 or higher, and MLD was found to have a correlation with pneumonia and SHAP value=0.38. Moreover, through this prediction model, the predicted result for patients with mild radiation pneumonitis by the ground truth of a specific patient was 1.6 (close to grade2), and MLD>20 Gy, pathology, V20, and V30 were analyzed as high-risk factors in predicting radiation side effects. The accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of the model system were 0.88, 0.79, and 0.78, respectively.ConclusionThrough this study, MLD and V30 were analyzed as important predictors of side effects, and the features of each factor were analyzed for the degree of importance by the SHAP value. To predict radiation pneumonia using this method, a personalized analysis was conducted to identify the factors that influenced each patient. Through this process, comparisons were made with the existing black box method, which confirmed that increasing the explainability can reinforce an in-depth analysis of radiation side effect prediction.
Potential of Acid Phosphatase Activity and Mycorrhizal Colonization to Reduce Phosphorus Fertilization in Maize Cultivated in Brazil
Authors: Silva Lucas Lopes e , Andrade Joao Antonio da Costa , Maltoni Kátia Luciene , Lannes Luciola S.
Published: April 2021

Purpose: It is urgent to mitigate the environmental impacts resulting from agriculture, especially in highly biodiverse and threatened areas, as the Brazilian Cerrado. We aim to investigate whether phosphatase activity and mycorrhizal colonization are alternative plant strategies for nutrient acquisition in maize cultivated under fertilized and unfertilized conditions in Brazil, potentially contributing to reduce the use of phosphate fertilizers needed for production.Methods: Three experiments were performed: the first was conducted in a glasshouse, with 17 experimental pure maize lineages and two phosphorus treatments; the second in the field, with 3 pure maize lineages and two treatments, one without fertilization and another with NPK fertilization; and the third was also carried out in the field, with 13 simple commercial hybrids, grown either under NK or under NPK treatment. Soil and plant variables were measured and tested for the response to fertilization, differences amongst genotypes and response to phosphatase activity and mycorrhizal colonization.Results: We detected a positive effect of mycorrhizal colonization upon growth in pure maize lineages. The activity of acid phosphatase was modulated by the availability of phosphorus and nitrogen in the soil, and promoted grain filling of commercial hybrids in soils with low phosphorus availability. Conclusions: These results demonstrate, for the first time, that it is possible to select genotypes that are more adapted to low soil phosphorus availability aiming at organic production, or to use genotypes that have high phosphatase activity under phosphorus fertilization to reduce the amount of added phosphorus needed for maize production in Brazil.
Survey of Radiation Field and Dose in HPV-Positive Oropharyngeal Cancer: Is De-escalation Actually Applied in Clinical Practice?
Authors: Choi Kyu Hye , Song Jin Ho , Kim Yeon-Sil , Moon Sung Ho , Lee Jeong Shim , Oh Young-Taek , Oh Dongryul , Kim Jin Ho , Kim Jun Won , Lee Youn Soo , Cho Jae-Keun
Published: April 2021

Background: Studies on de-escalation in radiation therapy (RT) for human papillomavirus-related [HPV(+)] oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) are currently ongoing. This study investigated the current practice regarding the radiation dose and field in the treatment of HPV(+) OPC.Methods: The subcommittee on Oropharyngeal Cancer Treatment Guidelines of the Korean Society for Head and Neck Oncology (KSHNO) conducted a questionnaire on the primary treatment policy in five scenarios. Among them, for HPV(+) OPC scenarios, radiation oncologists were questioned regarding the field and dose of RT.Results: Forty-two radiation oncologists responded to the survey. In definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) treatment for stage T2N1M0 OPC, most respondents prescribed a dose of >60 Gy to the primary tonsil and involved ipsilateral lymph nodes (LNs). However, eight of the respondents prescribed a relatively low dose of ≤54 Gy. Various doses were prescribed for the non-involved chain, and 50 and 54 Gy were the most commonly selected doses. For stage T2N1M0 OPC, postoperative adjuvant RT was prescribed by eight and nine respondents with a lower dose of ≤50 Gy for the ipsilateral tonsil and involved neck, respectively. In definitive CCRT in complete remission after induction chemotherapy for initial stage T2N3M0 OPC, most respondents included the contralateral LNs with less de-escalated radiation fields. De-escalation of the tonsil and involved neck were performed by eight and seven respondents, respectively. Regarding whether de-escalation is applied in radiotherapy for HPV(+) OPC, 27 (64.3%) did not do it at present, and 15 (35.7%) were doing or considering it.Conclusions: The field and dose of prescribed treatment varied between institutions in Korea. Among them, dose de-escalation of RT in HPV(+) OPC was observed in approximately 20% of the respondents. Consensus guidelines will be set in the near future after the completion of ongoing prospective trials.
Biomechanical properties of growing and decaying roots of Cynodon dactylon
Authors: Kamchoom Viroon , Boldrin David , Leung Anthony , Sookkrajang Chanakan , Likitlersuang Suched
Published: April 2021

AimWe measured the effects of growth and decay on the tensile strength of roots of Cynodon dactylon, considering different mortality causes common to agricultural land conversion (i.e., burning and herbicide application). Drivers of root strength changes have also been studies, including root chemical composition (i.e., cellulose and lignin).MethodWe applied three treatments to C. dactylon grass: (i) growth duration (60, 120 and 180 days), (ii) decay duration after burning (30, 60, 120, 180 and 360 days) and (iii) decay duration after herbicide application (15, 30 and 60 days). After each treatment, diameter, tensile strength, cellulose content and lignin content from root samples were measured (n = 303).ResultsIrrespective to the treatments, strength-diameter relations followed a negative power law (R2 > 0.6). Increase in the median strength values due to grass growth was consistent with the increases in both the cellulose and lignin contents. Root decay caused by herbicide applications caused significantly greater and faster reduction in strengths than by burning treatment, because of the faster reduction of both the cellulose and lignin contents.ConclusionRoot decay due to different causes of plant mortality can increase the susceptibility to erosion and slope instability during conversion of agricultural land. Measures on slope safety and erosion are vital when applying herbicides for weed clearance in farmlands because of faster deterioration of root chemical composition and root strength (compared to burning).