bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobile phone ownership, digital technology use and acceptability of digital interventions among individuals on opioid use disorder treatment in Kenya
Authors: Kiburi Sarah Kanana , Paruk Saeeda , Chiliza Bonginkosi
Published: August 2022

Background

There is limited research on the use of digital interventions among individuals with opioid use disorders (OUD) in low-and-middle income countries. This study aimed to assess mobile phone ownership, digital technology use and acceptability of digital interventions for treatment among individuals on treatment for OUD in Nairobi, Kenya.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals with OUD. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, use of mobile phones and other digital technology and acceptability of digital interventions for treatment.

Results

One hundred and eighty participants were enrolled comprising 83.3% males with mean age of 31.5 years (SD 8.6). Mobile phone ownership was reported by 77.2% of participants of which 59.7% used smartphones. One hundred and sixty-six (92.2%) used phones to call, 82.8 and 77.2% used phones to send and receive text messages respectively; 30% used the internet; 57.2% had replaced the phone in past year and 51.1% of participants reported use of at least one social media platform, of these 44.4% had searched social media for information on drug use. Acceptability to receive treatment by phone was 95% and computer 49.4% with majority (88.1%) preferring a text message-based intervention. The preferred approach of delivery of a text message-based intervention were: one text message per day once a week, message to be personalized and individuals allowed to choose time and day to receive the message. Factors associated with acceptability of digital interventions were education level, being single, smartphone ownership and employment.

Conclusion

Majority of individuals on treatment for OUD had access to mobile phones but with high device turnover and limited access to computers and internet. There was high acceptability of digital interventions to provide treatment for OUDs, mostly through phones. These findings highlight factors to consider in the design of a digital intervention for this population.
The appraisal of tropical cyclones in the North Indian Ocean: An overview of different approaches and the involvement of Earth’s components
Authors: Tiwari Gaurav , Kumar Pankaj , Tiwari Pooja
Published: August 2022

This study aims to provide a comprehensive and balanced assessment of recent scientific studies on the evolution, temporal variability and prediction of tropical cyclones (TCs), focusing on the North Indian Ocean (NIO). The involvement of earth’s components in TC genesis and intensification has been elaborated in a confined way. The advancement of multidisciplinary approaches for comprehending the TCs is highlighted after a brief description of the involvement of oceanic, atmospheric, and land surface processes. Only a few studies illustrate how land surface plays a role in TC intensification; however, the role of latent heat flow, moisture, and convection in cyclogenesis is well documented. Despite two to 3 decades of advancement and significant development in forecasting techniques and satellite products, the prediction of TC’s intensity, dissipation, track, and landfall remains a challenge. The most noticeable improvements in NIO TC’s prediction have been achieved in the last couple of decades when concord techniques are utilized, especially the data assimilation methods and dynamical coupled atmosphere-ocean regional models. Through diverse methodologies, algorithms, parameterization, in-situ observational data, data mining, boundary layer, and surface fluxes, significant research has been done to increase the skills of standalone atmospheric models and air-sea coupled models. However, some crucial issues still exist, and it is suggested that they should be addressed in future studies.
Geochronology and geochemistry of Late Triassic granitoids in Harizha Cu polymetallic deposit (East Kunlun Orogen) and their metallogenic constraints
Authors: Zhang Wenzhao , Xia Chulin , Zhen Shikun , Quan Chang’en , Du Yu , Han Zhihong
Published: August 2022

The large Harizha copper (Cu) polymetallic deposit is located in the eastern section of East Kunlun Orogen. The ore-related lithologies include mainly the granodiorite, monzogranite, and their porphyries. Zircon U-Pb dating of the ore-bearing granodiorite porphyry and granite porphyry yielded Late Triassic age of 217 Ma. The rocks are characterized by being rich in SiO2 (68.44–78.13 wt%) and high alkali (4.03–8.33 wt%) and peraluminous (A/CNK = 1.02–1.68). In general, the granite samples are peraluminous and high-K calc-alkaline. The rocks are significantly enriched in light rare earth elements (LREE), large ion lithophile elements (e.g., K, Rb, Ba) and other incompatible elements (e.g., U, Th), but are depleted in heavy rare earth elements (HREEs), with weakly negative Eu and Ce anomalies, resembling I-S transitional granite. The zircons have εHf (t) = -8 to -4, and the corresponding zircon two-stage Hf model age (TDM2) from 1.5 to 1.8 Ga. We speculated that the ore-forming materials in the mining area were mainly from partial remelting of crustal materials, and that the tectonic regime was post-collisional extension.
Occupational decision motives of potential TVET teachers: New standards of pre-service TVET teachers’ recruitment and career development
Authors: Eze Nicholas , Nwadi Calister , Onodugo Ifeoma , Ozioko Ekene , Osondu Stella , Nwosu Ogochukwu , Chilaka Akuchinyere , Obichukwu Uzochukwu , Anorue Honesta , Onyishi Ifeyinwa , Eze Emmanuel , Onyemachi Chidinma , Onyemachi Chinedu
Published: August 2022

This study investigated the underlying factors that influences pre-service Nigerian (technical vocational education and training, TVET) teachers’ decision to pursue a teaching career which aids in recruiting more teachers. Preservice TVET teachers are the teachers who are being prepared to teach in a vocation requiring technical skills. The motivation of these pre-service TVET teachers obtaining a postgraduate diploma in technical education was investigated using the quantitative research design approach to collect data via a researcher-created, self-administered questionnaire. Participants were selected from two cohorts (N = 78) of students enrolled in the various departments for the Postgraduate Diploma in Technical Education (PGDTE) program of the University of Nigeria. According to the quantitative analysis, excellent role models from previous teachers, the demanding nature of the job role, a willingness to impart relevant knowledge and skills, a willingness to assist financially disadvantaged students in gaining marketable job skills, and the country’s presumed demand for TVET teachers were the primary motivators for pre-service teachers. However, the gender aspect revealed that male and female pre-service TVET teachers showed significant differences in their altruistic and intrinsic impulses when the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U tests were utilized to analyze extracted data on gender. The ramifications of the findings were then examined, as well as their significance in enhancing hiring measures through setting of standards for technical and vocational education programs in the universities to improve on the status of pre-service TVET teachers to attract quality graduates of technical education programs who can teach as TVET teachers before and after completing their programs.
Teaching in the time of COVID-19: A biological systems theory approach
Authors: Brigandi Carla B. , Spillane Nancy K. , Rambo-Hernandez Karen E. , Stone Jana
Published: August 2022

In 2020, schools around the United States and globally closed to in-person instruction in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study, embedded in ongoing research supported by a United States Department of Education Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Education Award, investigated changes in roles, relationships, and educational activities resulting from the pandemic as perceived by educators in one rural and low SES Appalachian primary school. UsingBronfenbrenner’s (1977;1979;2001) Bioecological Theory of Human Development, this study examined instructional modifications (proximal processes) resulting from the pandemic (chronosystem) in the school and home (microsystem context) and the development of teachers, parents, and students (persons) in response to those changes. Survey data were collected pre- and post-pandemic onset. Results of this mixed-methods study indicated teachers perceived the pandemic as influencing what they taught, how they taught, and the roles of and relationships between teachers, parents, and students. Teachers adapted to the changing educational environment developing proficiency in online tools and skills to enhance communication. Parents assumed a more prominent role in their K-2 student’s schooling to ensure students logged in and were active online, paid attention while in class, and completed their assignments at home. These remote learning environments, which naturally distanced teachers from their students, coupled with uncertain parental involvement, challenged teachers in their formative assessments of student knowledge. While some students thrived with increased support from attentive parents—many students, particularly those already at-risk or in homes where internet or parental support were lacking—were adversely affected, thus widening the achievement gap.
Proposing new body mass index and waist circumference cut-offs based on cardiometabolic risks for a Central Asia population: A feasibility study
Authors: Kali Aknur , Gusmanov Arnur , Aripov Marat , Chan Mei-Yen
Published: August 2022

Background

Lower BMI cutoffs as compared to standard cut-offs have been recommended to reduce the risk of obesity-related co-morbidities in some ethnic populations (e.g. south Asian and Chinese populations). Recent attempts have also been made to establish ethnicity-specific BMI cutoffs to identify individuals affected with obesity in relation to type 2 diabetes risk in multi-ethnic populations based in the UK and North America. However, to date, there is yet to have any published work done to identify these cut-offs in Central Asia populations nor specify any difference for genders even though the fat distribution varies amongst the different ethnic groups as well as between the genders. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study exploring new BMI and WC cut-offs in this population.

Methods

To address this gap, we used a database of secondary care electronic health records from the National Research Cardiac Surgery Center to identify BMI and waist circumference cutoffs for obesity based on the risk of developing diabetes and other cardiometabolic disorders among 297 adults in Kazakhstan. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis were utilized to investigate the relationships between risk factors and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). BMI and WC thresholds were predicted using the Youden index.

Results

For an equivalent age-adjusted and sex-adjusted incidence of type 2 diabetes at a BMI of 30·0 kg/m2 in White populations, we found higher BMI cutoffs for Kazakhstani women (30.5 kg/m2) but lower cut-offs for men (28·9 kg/m2). As for waist circumference, the cut-off points for females were 95cm and 104 cm for males.

Conclusions

For Central Asia populations, the current recommended BMI and WC cutoffs may not be suitable and further work is needed to establish specific cut-offs for this population.
Identification and validation of ferroptosis key genes in bone mesenchymal stromal cells of primary osteoporosis based on bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Xia Yu , Zhang Haifeng , Wang Heng , Wang Qiufei , Zhu Pengfei , Gu Ye , Yang Huilin , Geng Dechun
Published: August 2022

Primary osteoporosis has long been underdiagnosed and undertreated. Currently, ferroptosis may be a promising research direction in the prevention and treatment of primary osteoporosis. However, the specific mechanism of ferroptosis in primary osteoporosis remains a mystery. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in bone mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) of primary osteoporosis and heathy patients from the GEO databases with the help of bioinformatics analysis. Then, we intersected these DEGs with the ferroptosis dataset and obtained 80 Ferr-DEGs. Several bioinformatics algorithms (PCA, RLE, Limma, BC, MCC, etc.) were adopted to integrate the results. Additionally, we explored the potential functional roles of the Ferr-DEGs via GO and KEGG. Protein–protein interactions (PPI) were used to predict potential interactive networks. Finally, 80 Ferr-DEGs and 5 key Ferr-DEGs were calculated. The 5 key Ferr-DEGs were further verified in the OVX mouse model. In conclusion, through a variety of bioinformatics methods, our research successfully identified 5 key Ferr-DEGs associated with primary osteoporosis and ferroptosis, namely, sirtuin 1(SIRT1), heat shock protein family A (Hsp70) member 5 (HSPA5), mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase (MTOR), hypoxia inducible factor 1 subunit alpha (HIF1A) and beclin 1 (BECN1), which were verified in an animal model.
Optimal scheduling of power systems considering carbon markets: Based on blockchain theory and multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Wang Dongfa , Lan Fei , Shen Huaqiang , Liu Minghui , Sun Zhenhua
Published: August 2022

In the context of double carbon, it is an inevitable requirement for the low-carbon power industry to take economic efficiency and low carbon into consideration. This article introduces the carbon emission constraint into the economic dispatching of the power system. Then, combined with the blockchain theories, the methods of particle swarm optimization and multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) are employed to simulate the economic and environmental scheduling of a power generation system based on six thermal power units. Research shows that the constraint processing approach is practical and effective, and it can firmly adhere to equality requirements, which is superior to other algorithms’ constraint processing methods; the algorithm is stable, and the global optimal solution can be determined under different initial solutions. In the process of multi-objective optimization, the solutions of POF obtained by using the slope method are evenly distributed.
Photocatalytic Activity of Zero-Valent Iron Nanoparticles Highly Dispersed on Porous Carbon Materials
Authors: Liang Dan , Fan Yanfei , Yue Taixing , Wang Wen , Shang Qiaoyan , Chen Ping , Zhu Minghui , Liu Yan , Cui Guanwei , Tang Bo
Published: August 2022

During the traditional homogeneous Fenton reaction process for water treatment, the consumption rate constant of Fe2+ is much greater than its regeneration rate constant, which makes Fe2+ an almost stoichiometric loss and produces iron sludge waste. In this article, highly dispersed zero-valent Fe nanoparticles loaded on porous carbon materials (Fe-EMC) were synthesized by a one-step calcination method using Flammulina velutipes natural carbon source and Fe(NO3)3 as raw materials to solve the aforementioned problem. The as-prepared Fe-EMC materials are characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, electron probe microanalyzer, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and N2 adsorption–desorption measurements. It exhibits excellent photocatalytic activity for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dyes under a broad pH region. Under conditions of 0.3 g/L Fe-EMC, 0.2 M/L H2O2, pH 7.0–11.0, and 50 mg/L MB, 97.98% of the MB dyes in the solution were completely degraded within 1 h. It was attributed to the efficient regeneration cycle between Fe2+ and Fe3+ in the Fenton-like system with light irradiation, which can promote the generation of active oxygen species.
Leachability of mercury in coal fly ash from coal-fired power plants in southwest China
Authors: Huang Yiming , Liu Jinling , Wang Guan , Wang Qingfeng , Zeng Boping , Xiao Zhongjiu , Sun Guangyi , Li Zhonggen
Published: August 2022

Mercury (Hg)-laden coal fly ash is an environmental concern when it is exposed to precipitation or surface/groundwater under natural conditions. In this study, fly ash samples collected from fifteen coal-fired power plants in Guizhou province of southwest China were subjected to examine the different Hg binding forms. The results showed that total Hg in fly ash from these CFPPs ranged from 30 to 870 ng/g. The percentage of different Hg binding forms in coal fly ash decreased in the following order: strong complexed form (64%–91%) > acid-soluble form (1%–25%) and sulfide form (3.4%–14.8%) > ion-exchangeable form (0.01%–8.1%), and water-soluble form (0.01%–4.4%). The low proportion of water-soluble and ion-exchangeable forms indicated that Hg was not easily removed under natural conditions. Furthermore, fly ash samples from three out of fifteen CFPPs were carried out the leaching experiments to disclose the leachability of Hg and the transmedia migration potential of this element. The results indicated pH dependence of Hg leachability, with more than 4-times fold higher Hg been leached out under acidic (pH < 5.5) and strong alkaline (pH > 13) conditions than under neutral and weakly alkaline conditions (pH = 7–12). In addition, Hg was leached out more in higher liquid/solid ratio than lower ratios. Nevertheless, Hg concentration in extract (<7 ng/L) of these three CFPPs under all conditions was well below the applicable regulation limits, and less than 0.11% of total Hg was leached out. This study demonstrated that Hg in the CFPP fly ashes was more stable under natural conditions when exposed to surface/groundwaters and had a negligible Hg leachability.
First record of organochlorine pesticides in blood of wild and captive African leopards, Panthera pardus pardus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: van As Michelle , Smit Nico J. , Wolmarans Nico J. , Wepener Victor
Published: August 2022

Compared to aquatic ecosystems, limited information exists on organochlorine accumulation in terrestrial ecosystems, and this is specifically true for terrestrial carnivores that have received limited attention in terms of studies on pollutant bioaccumulation. The African Leopard, Panthera pardus pardus (Linnaeus, 1758), is a popular focal species for research by ethologists and ecologists, but a noticeable knowledge gap exists with regards to toxicological aspects. To address this gap, the aim of this study was to determine baseline organochlorine pesticide (OCP) concentrations in blood of live wild and captive leopards in South Africa, and to explore the relationship between OCP levels and different conservation management strategies. Peripheral blood samples of seven captive and seven wild leopards, representing regular and melanistic individuals within the captive population, were collected while under sedation. The ΣOCP concentrations in blood serum were detected by means of GC-ECD. Statistical relationships among pesticide content in leopards from three geographical areas, different sexes, age groups and conservation status were examined. Captive leopards from this study had a slightly higher mean ΣOCP concentration (901 pg/ml) than wild leopards (768 pg/ml), and captive females had lower mean levels of ΣOCPs (797 pg/ml) than males (1,058 pg/ml). OCPs accumulated in the following order DDTs (27%) > HCHs (21%) > Heptachlors (15%) > CHLs (15%) > Drins (14%) > HCB (8%). Differences in OCP composition profiles of resampled captive individuals were also found. The sources of OCPs in the leopards can be attributed to the historic and current use of, e.g., DDT and HCHs, for malaria vector control and in insecticides/avicides in South Africa. For the captive leopards in this study the main source is possibly contaminated chicken that formed the major portion of their diet. This is the first report on OCP concentrations from leopards in Africa and highlights the need for this parameter to be considered in terms of the conservation management of healthy populations.
Distribution and interaction of the suitable areas of Beauveria bassiana and Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel)
Authors: Wang Aqiang , Peng Sihua , Lian Yuyang , Yang Xiaofeng , Jia Jingjing , Li Jinlei , Yang Shuyan , Zheng Rongjiao , Zhou Shihao
Published: August 2022

Climate is a key factor affecting the potential distribution of insects, and the host is another important constraint for the distribution of pests. To elucidate changes in the potential distribution of Beauveria bassiana under climate change scenarios, this paper used the data of two different greenhouse gas (GHG) emission scenarios (RCP2.6, RCP8.5) to predict the potential distribution of B. bassiana and its typical host, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), based on the MaxEnt model. Then, the potential distribution of B. bassiana and B. dorsalis (Hendel) was compared, and their suitable growth area’s change and expansion trend under two different GHG emission scenarios were mastered. The results of this study show that the potential distribution area of B. bassiana will increase by 2,050 under the RCP8.5 climate scenario, mainly in central Europe and southwestern Asia, with an increased area of 3.28 × 105 km2. However, under the climate scenario of RCP2.6, the potential distribution area for B. bassiana decreased by 2.0 × 105 km2, mainly in North America. This study will provide a theoretical basis for the control of B. dorsalis (Hendel) with B. bassiana.
NcRNA-mediated upregulation of CAMK2N1 is associated with poor prognosis and tumor immune infiltration of gastric cancer
Authors: Peng Kaipeng , Ren Xiangqing , Ren Qian
Published: August 2022

Gastric cancer (GC) is still notorious for its poor prognosis and aggressive characteristics. Though great developments have been made in diagnosis and therapy for GC, the prognosis of patient is still perishing. In this study, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GC were first screened using three Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets (GSE13911, GSE29998, and GSE26899). Second, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) data were used to validate expression of these DEGs and perform survival analysis. We selected seven candidate genes (CAMK2N1, OLFML2B, AKR7A3, CYP4X1, FMO5, MT1H, and MT1X) to carry out the next analysis. To construct the ceRNA network, we screened the most potential upstream ncRNAs of the candidate genes. A series of bioinformatics analyses, including expression analysis, correlation analysis, and survival analysis, revealed that the SNHG10–hsa-miR-378a-3p might be the most potential regulatory axis in GC. Then, the expression of CAMK2N1, miR-378a-3p, and SNHG10 was verified in GC cell lines (GES-1, MGC-803, BGC-823, HGC-27, MKN-45, and AGS) by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. We found that SNHG10 and CAMK2N1 were highly expressed in gastric cancer lines, and the miR-378a-3p was lowly expressed in BGC-823, HGC-27, and MKN-45. Furthermore, CAMK2N1 levels were significantly negatively associated with tumor immune cell infiltration, biomarkers of immune cells, and immune checkpoint expression. In summary, our results suggest that the ncRNA-mediated high expression of CAMK2N1 is associated with poor prognosis and tumor immune infiltration of GC.
Repression of enhancer RNA PHLDA1 promotes tumorigenesis and progression of Ewing sarcoma via decreasing infiltrating T‐lymphocytes: A bioinformatic analysis
Authors: Huang Runzhi , Huang Dan , Wang Siqiao , Xian Shuyuan , Liu Yifan , Jin Minghao , Zhang Xinkun , Chen Shaofeng , Yue Xi , Zhang Wei , Lu Jianyu , Liu Huizhen , Huang Zongqiang , Zhang Hao , Yin Huabin
Published: August 2022

Background: The molecular mechanisms of EWS-FLI-mediating target genes and downstream pathways may provide a new way in the targeted therapy of Ewing sarcoma. Meanwhile, enhancers transcript non-coding RNAs, known as enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), which may serve as potential diagnosis markers and therapeutic targets in Ewing sarcoma.

Materials and methods: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between 85 Ewing sarcoma samples downloaded from the Treehouse database and 3 normal bone samples downloaded from the Sequence Read Archive database. Included in DEGs, differentially expressed eRNAs (DEeRNAs) and target genes corresponding to DEeRNAs (DETGs), as well as the differentially expressed TFs, were annotated. Then, cell type identification by estimating relative subsets of known RNA transcripts (CIBERSORT) was used to infer portions of infiltrating immune cells in Ewing sarcoma and normal bone samples. To evaluate the prognostic value of DEeRNAs and immune function, cross validation, independent prognosis analysis, and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis were implemented using sarcoma samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas database. Next, hallmarks of cancer by gene set variation analysis (GSVA) and immune gene sets by single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) were identified to be significantly associated with Ewing sarcoma. After screening by co-expression analysis, most significant DEeRNAs, DETGs and DETFs, immune cells, immune gene sets, and hallmarks of cancer were merged to construct a co-expression regulatory network to eventually identify the key DEeRNAs in tumorigenesis of Ewing sarcoma. Moreover, Connectivity Map Analysis was utilized to identify small molecules targeting Ewing sarcoma. External validation based on multidimensional online databases and scRNA-seq analysis were used to verify our key findings.

Results: A six-different-dimension regulatory network was constructed based on 17 DEeRNAs, 29 DETFs, 9 DETGs, 5 immune cells, 24 immune gene sets, and 8 hallmarks of cancer. Four key DEeRNAs (CCR1, CD3D, PHLDA1, and RASD1) showed significant co-expression relationships in the network. Connectivity Map Analysis screened two candidate compounds, MS-275 and pyrvinium, that might target Ewing sarcoma. PHLDA1 (key DEeRNA) was extensively expressed in cancer stem cells of Ewing sarcoma, which might play a critical role in the tumorigenesis of Ewing sarcoma.

Conclusion: PHLDA1 is a key regulator in the tumorigenesis and progression of Ewing sarcoma. PHLDA1 is directly repressed by EWS/FLI1 protein and low expression of FOSL2, resulting in the deregulation of FOX proteins and CC chemokine receptors. The decrease of infiltrating T‐lymphocytes and TNFA signaling may promote tumorigenesis and progression of Ewing sarcoma.
Molecular characterization, clinical relevance and immune feature of m7G regulator genes across 33 cancer types
Authors: Li Zhanzhan , Li Yanyan , Shen Lin , Shen Liangfang , Li Na
Published: August 2022

Over 170 RNA modifications have been identified after transcriptions, involving in regulation of RNA splicing, processing, translation and decay. Growing evidence has unmasked the crucial role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in cancer development and progression, while, as a relative newly found RNA modification, N7-methylguanosine (m7G) is also certified to participate in tumorigenesis via different catalytic machinery from that of m6A. However, system analysis on m7G RNA modification-related regulator genes is lack. In this study, we first investigated the genetic alteration of m7G related regulator genes in 33 cancers, and found mRNA expression levels of most regulator genes were positively correlated with copy number variation (CNV) and negatively correlated with methylation in most cancers. We built a m7G RNA modification model based on the enrichment of the regulator gene scores to evaluate the m7G modification levels in 33 cancers, and investigated the connections of m7G scores to clinical outcomes. Furthermore, we paid close attention to the role of m7G in immunology due to the widely used immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Our results showed the higher m7G scores related to immunosuppression of tumor cells. Further confirmation with phase 3 clinical data with application of anti-PDL1/PDL indicated the impact of m7G modification level on immunotherapy effect. Relevance of m7G regulator genes and drug sensitivity was also evaluated to provide a better treatment choice when treating cancers. In summary, our study uncovered the profile of m7G RNA modification through various cancers, and figured out the connection of m7G modification levels with therapeutical outcomes, providing potential better options of cancer treatment.
Roles and regulation of histone acetylation in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xia Jin-kun , Qin Xue-qian , Zhang Lu , Liu Shu-jun , Shi Xiao-lei , Ren Hao-zhen
Published: August 2022

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent malignant tumor of the liver, but its prognosis is poor. Histone acetylation is an important epigenetic regulatory mode that modulates chromatin structure and transcriptional status to control gene expression in eukaryotic cells. Generally, histone acetylation and deacetylation processes are controlled by the opposing activities of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs). Dysregulation of histone modification is reported to drive aberrant transcriptional programmes that facilitate liver cancer onset and progression. Emerging studies have demonstrated that several HDAC inhibitors exert tumor-suppressive properties via activation of various cell death molecular pathways in HCC. However, the complexity involved in the epigenetic transcription modifications and non-epigenetic cellular signaling processes limit their potential clinical applications. This review brings an in-depth view of the oncogenic mechanisms reported to be related to aberrant HCC-associated histone acetylation, which might provide new insights into the effective therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat HCC.
Establishment of prognostic model for postoperative patients with metaplastic breast cancer: Based on a retrospective large data analysis and Chinese multicenter study
Authors: Wang Ge , Sun Xiaomin , Ren Xin , Wang Mengmeng , Wang Yongsheng , Zhang Shukun , Li Jingye , Lu Wenping , Zhang Baogang , Chen Pingping , Shi Zhiqiang , Liu Lijuan , Zhuang Jing
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Models for predicting postoperative overall survival of patients with metaplastic breast cancer have not yet been discovered. The purpose of this study is to establish a model for predicting postoperative overall survival of metaplastic breast cancer patients.

Methods: Patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database diagnosed with MBC from 2010 to 2015 were selected and randomized into a SEER training cohort and an internal validation cohort. We identified independent prognostic factors after MBC surgery based on multivariate Cox regression analysis to construct nomograms. The discriminative and predictive power of the nomogram was assessed using Harrell’s consistency index (C-index) and calibration plots. The decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to evaluate the clinical usefulness of the model. We verify the performance of the prediction model with a Chinese multi-center data set.

Results: Multifactorial analysis showed that age at diagnosis, T stage, N stage, M stage, tumor size, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were important prognostic factors affecting OS. The C-index of nomogram was higher than the eighth edition of the AJCC TNM grading system in the SEER training set and validation set. The calibration chart showed that the survival rate predicted by the nomogram is close to the actual survival rate. It has also been verified in the SEER internal verification set and the Chinese multi-center data set.

Conclusion: The prognostic model can accurately predict the post-surgical OS rate of patients with MBC and can provide a reference for doctors and patients to establish treatment plans.
Screening performance of C-reactive protein for active pulmonary tuberculosis in HIV-positive patients: A systematic review with a meta-analysis
Authors: Meca Andreea-Daniela , Turcu-Stiolica Adina , Bogdan Maria , Subtirelu Mihaela-Simona , Cocoș Relu , Ungureanu Bogdan Silviu , Mahler Beatrice , Pisoschi Catalina-Gabriela
Published: August 2022

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading infectious cause of mortality worldwide. In the last years, resistant strains of the etiological agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, have emerged, thus demanding more triage tests to identify active pulmonary TB (PTB) patients and to evaluate their disease severity. Therefore, acute-phase reaction serum tests are required for monitoring TB patients, among WHO symptom screening recommendations. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a non-specific inflammatory biomarker that has been recently proposed for TB screening and can be quantitatively analyzed through cost-effective point-of-care assays. A previous meta-analysis found CRP to be highly sensitive and moderately specific for active PTB with confirmed HIV infection.

Methods

We performed a meta-analysis update of diagnostic tests, pooling sensitivities, and specificities in order to assess the accuracy of CRP as a potential test for the screening of HIV-associated PTB in outpatients. We searched MEDLINE, Web of Science, and SCOPUS for eligible articles before 19 October 2021.

Results

We identified 13 eligible studies with HIV-positive patients with PTB. At a CRP threshold of 10 mg/L, CRP pooled sensitivity was 87% (76%–93%) and pooled specificity was 67% (49%–81%), with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.858. Using a CRP threshold of 8 mg/L, pooled sensitivity was 82% (72%–89%) and pooled specificity was 82% (67%–92%), with an AUC of 0.879. We found that CRP has a high sensitivity in the screening of PTB in HIV-positive outpatients, consistent with findings reported previously.

Conclusions

Regardless of pooled specificity, better results were found using the CRP threshold of 8 mg/L as a test screening of PTB, meeting the need of further approaching specific TB diagnostic methods and reducing resource consumption.
Schlafen family is a prognostic biomarker and corresponds with immune infiltration in gastric cancer
Authors: Xu Jiannan , Chen Songyao , Liang Jianming , Hao Tengfei , Wang Huabin , Liu Guangyao , Jin Xinghan , Li Huan , Zhang Junchang , Zhang Changhua , He Yulong
Published: August 2022

The Schlafen (SLFN) gene family plays an important role in immune cell differentiation and immune regulation. Previous studies have found that the increased SLFN5 expression in patients with intestinal metaplasia correlates with gastric cancer (GC) progression. However, no investigation has been conducted on the SLFN family in GC. Therefore, we systematically explore the expression and prognostic value of SLFN family members in patients with GC, elucidating their possible biological function and its correlation with tumor immune cells infiltration. TCGA database results indicated that the SLFN5, SLFN11, SLFN12, SLFN12L, and SLFN13 expression was significantly higher in GC. The UALCAN and KM plotter databases indicated that enhanced the SLFN family expression was associated with lymph node metastasis, tumor stage, and tumor grade and predicted an adverse prognosis. cBioportal database revealed that the SLFN family had a high frequency of genetic alterations in GC (about 12%), including mutations and amplification. The GeneMANIA and STRING databases identified 20 interacting genes and 16 interacting proteins that act as potential targets of the SLFN family. SLFN5, SLFN11, SLFN12, SLFN12L, and SLFN14 may be implicated in the immunological response, according to Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Additionally, Timer and TISIDB databases indicate that SLFN5, SLFN11, SLFN12, SLFN12L, and SLFN14 are involved in the immune response. Furthermore, Timer, TCGA, and TISIDB databases suggested that the SLFN5, SLFN11, SLFN12, SLFN12L, and SLFN14 expression in GC is highly linked with immune cell infiltration levels, immune checkpoint, and the many immune cell marker sets expression. We isolated three samples of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and activated T cells; the results showed the expression of SLFN family members decreased significantly when T cell active. In conclusion, the SLFN family of proteins may act as a prognostic indicator of GC and is associated with immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint expression in GC. Additionally, it may be involved in tumor immune evasion by regulating T cell activation.
The hepatic extramedullary hematopoiesis during experimental murine Schistosomiasis mansoni
Authors: Francisco Juliane Siqueira , Terra Marcia Andrea Barge Loução , Klein Gabriel Couto Thurler , Dias de Oliveira Barbara Cristina Euzebio Pereira , Pelajo-Machado Marcelo
Published: August 2022

Many years ago, our research group has demonstrated extramedullary hematopoiesis in the peripheral zone of murine hepatic schistosomal granulomas. In the present study, we revisit this phenomenon using new technical and conceptual approaches. Therefore, newborn mice were percutaneously infected by Schistosoma mansoni cercariae and euthanized between 35- and 60-days post infection. Liver samples were submitted to histopathology and immunohistochemical analyses. Cells under mitosis and/or expressing Ki67 demonstrated the proliferation of hematopoietic cells both around the parasite’s eggs trapped in the liver and around hepatic vessels. After 50 days post infection, proliferating cells at different levels on differentiation were located preferentially in the peripheral zone of the granulomas, around the vessels and inside the sinusoids. The presence of acidic and sulfated glycoconjugates, reticular fibers and the absence of fibronectin characterized the microenvironment for attraction and maintenance of hematopoiesis. Some neutrophils secreted MMP9 from the earliest points of infection, indicating degradation of the extracellular matrix in regions of histolysis and a possible chemoattraction of hematopoietic stem cells to the liver. Fall-3+ cells and Sca-1+ cells indicated that early hematopoietic progenitors could be mobilized to the liver. Groups of vWF+ megakaryocytes suggest chemoattraction of these cells and/or migration, proliferation, and differentiation of very immature progenitors to this organ. The increase of blood vessels and extramedullary hematopoiesis in this environment, where markers of immature hematopoietic and endothelial cells have been identified, points to the possibility of the presence of progenitors for endothelial and hematopoietic cells in the liver during the infection. There is also the possibility of concomitant migration of more differentiated hematopoietic progenitors, that proliferate and differentiate in the liver, and the occurrence of angiogenesis caused by inflammation or release of ovular antigens that stimulate the activation and proliferation of endothelial cells. Altogether, these data increase knowledge about a murine model that is of interest for investigating the pathology of the schistosomiasis and also the dynamics of hematopoiesis.
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults in China
Authors: Qiu Junlin , Xiao Zilin , Zhang Ziwei , Luo Shuoming , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: August 2022

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is a type of diabetes caused by slow progression of autoimmune damage to pancreatic beta cells. According to the etiological classification, LADA should belong to the autoimmune subtype of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Previous studies have found general immune genetic effects associated with LADA, but there are also some racial differences. Multicenter studies have been conducted in different countries worldwide, but it is still unclear how the Chinese and Caucasian populations differ. The epidemiology and phenotypic characteristics of LADA may vary between Caucasian and Chinese diabetic patients as lifestyle, food habits, and body mass index differ between these two populations. The prevalence of LADA in China has reached a high level compared to other countries. The prevalence of LADA in China has reached a high level compared to other countries, and the number of patients with LADA ranks first in the world. Previous studies have found general immune genetic effects associated with LADA, but some racial differences also exist. The prevalence of LADA among newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients over the age of 30 years in China is 5.9%, and LADA patients account for 65% of the newly diagnosed T1D patients in the country. As a country with a large population, China has many people with LADA. A summary and analysis of these studies will enhance further understanding of LADA in China. In addition, comparing the similarities and differences between the Chinese and the Caucasian population from the perspectives of epidemiology, clinical, immunology and genetics will help to improve the understanding of LADA, and then promote LADA studies in individual populations.
Cuproptosis-related gene index: A predictor for pancreatic cancer prognosis, immunotherapy efficacy, and chemosensitivity
Authors: Huang Xufeng , Zhou Shujing , Tóth János , Hajdu András
Published: August 2022

Aim

The term “Cuproptosis” was coined to describe a novel type of cell death triggered by intracellular copper buildup that is fundamentally distinct from other recognized types such as autophagy, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis in recent days. As the underlying mechanism was newly identified, its potential connection to pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is still an open issue.

Methods

A set of machine learning algorithms was used to develop a Cuproptosis-related gene index (CRGI). Its immunological characteristics were studied by exploring its implications on the expression of the immunological checkpoints, prospective immunotherapy responses, etc. Moreover, the sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs was predicted. Unsupervised consensus clustering was performed to more precisely identify different CRGI-based molecular subtypes and investigate the immunotherapy and chemotherapy efficacy. The expression of DLAT, LIPT1 and LIAS were also investigated, through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), western blot, and immunofluorescence staining (IFS).

Results

A novel CRGI was identified and validated. Additionally, correlation analysis revealed major changes in tumor immunology across the high- and low-CRGI groups. Through an in-depth study of each medication, it was determined that the predictive chemotherapeutic efficacy of 32 regularly used anticancer drugs differed between high- and low-CRGI groups. The results of the molecular subtyping provided more support for such theories. Expressional assays performed at transcriptomic and proteomic levels suggested that the aforementioned Cuproptosis-related genes might serve as reliable diagnostic biomarkers in PAAD.

Significance

This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first study to examine prognostic prediction in PAAD from the standpoint of Cuproptosis. These findings may benefit future immunotherapy and chemotherapeutic therapies.
Host and bacterial factors linking periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Krutyhołowa Anna , Strzelec Karolina , Dziedzic Agata , Bereta Grzegorz P. , Łazarz-Bartyzel Katarzyna , Potempa Jan , Gawron Katarzyna
Published: August 2022

Observations from numerous clinical, epidemiological and serological studies link periodontitis with severity and progression of rheumatoid arthritis. The strong association is observed despite totally different aetiology of these two diseases, periodontitis being driven by dysbiotic microbial flora on the tooth surface below the gum line, while rheumatoid arthritis being the autoimmune disease powered by anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs). Here we discuss genetic and environmental risk factors underlying development of both diseases with special emphasis on bacteria implicated in pathogenicity of periodontitis. Individual periodontal pathogens and their virulence factors are argued as potentially contributing to putative causative link between periodontal infection and initiation of a chain of events leading to breakdown of immunotolerance and development of ACPAs. In this respect peptidylarginine deiminase, an enzyme unique among prokaryotes forPorphyromonas gingivalis, is elaborated as a potential mechanistic link between this major periodontal pathogen and initiation of rheumatoid arthritis development.
Effect of InxAl1-xAs graded buffer materials on pseudomorphic InP HEMT
Authors: Ai Likun , Tian Fangkun , Xu Anhuai , Huang Hua , Qi Ming
Published: August 2022

In this paper, The InxAl1-xAs graded buffer was inserted between the InAlAs buffer layer and the pseudomorphic In0.66Ga0.34As channel layer to improve material quality in channel. The results show that the InxAl1-xAs graded buffer layer with 50 nm thickness can obtain a good heterojunction interface and the root mean square (RMS) of 0.154 nm. The two dimensional electron gas (2-deg) mobility and concentration were 8570 cm2/Vs. and 2.7 cm−2 × 1012 cm−2 at 300K, respectively. InxAl1-xAs graded buffer layer can enhance the interface quality and the electrical performance through releasing the interface strain caused by pseudomorphic In0.52Al0.48As/In0.66Ga0.34As HEMT. This study shows great potentials by incorporating InxAl1-xAs graded buffer layer in pseudomorphic InP HEMT materials to improve the properties of devices.
Vitamin D intake as well as circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and risk for the incidence and recurrence of colorectal cancer precursors: A meta-analysis
Authors: Guo Li-liangzi , Chen Si-si , Zhong Li-xian , He Kai-yin , Li Yu-ting , Chen Wei-wei , Zeng Qiu-ting , Tang Shao-hui
Published: August 2022

Objective

Vitamin D consumption and circulating 25(OH)D level are associated with decreased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) and colorectal adenoma (CRA), but few studies have assessed their relationship with the incidence and recurrence of CRC precursors. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to further evaluate the association.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Embase databases in English until August 2021. Studies evaluating the association of vitamin D intake and circulating 25(OH)D level with risk of CRC precursors were included. A random-effects model was used to pool the risk estimates.

Results

A total of 48 studies were selected for inclusion. The CRC precursors incidence was negatively correlated with total vitamin D intake (RR = 0.84 95%CI: 0.80–0.88) and circulating 25(OH)D level (RR = 0.79 95%CI: 0.67–0.92). However, vitamin D intake and circulating 25(OH)D level did not show significant effects on the risk of CRC precursors recurrence. For dose-response analysis, evidence of a linear association was found between CRC precursors incidence and circulating 25(OH)D level, and the risk decreased by 14% per 10 ng/ml increment of circulating 25(OH)D level (RR = 0.86 95% CI: 0.75–0.99).

Conclusion

Vitamin D intake and circulating 25(OH)D level can play an effective role in reducing the risk of incidence of CRC precursors. However, they have not prevented the recurrence of CRC precursors.