bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the mechanism of sarsasapogenin in treating precocious puberty by regulating HPG axis
Authors: Hu KaiLi , Sun Wenyan , Li Yu , Zhang Bo , Zhang Meng , Guo Chunyan , Wang Xiaoling , Chang HongSheng
Published: March 2020

Background Precocious puberty is a common endocrine disorder in children,and its pathogenic factor is early initiation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Sarsasapogenin is the main component of traditional Chinese medicine Zhimu, which has anti-fertility effect. There is already evidence that anti-fertility drugs may be resistant to precocity by regulating the HPG axis. Therefore, we speculated that sarsasapogenin might also has the effect. In order to test this hypothesis, this study determined the effect and mechanism of sarsasapogenin on precocious puberty by establishing a danazol-induced precocious puberty model. Methods Female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into normal(N)group, model (M) group, leuprolide (L) group and sarsasapogenin (Sar) group. Rats at 5 days of age were given a single subcutaneous injection of 300 microgram of danazol dissolved in 25 microliter vehicle of ethylene glycol-ethanol (1:1, v/v), to establish the precocious puberty model. After 10 days of modeling, drug intervention was started. Vaginal opening was started at the age of 20 days, and then vaginal cell smears were examined. The development of uterus and ovary was observed by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. The levels of Serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol (E2) were determined by radioimmunoassay. The expressions of hypothalamic gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), Kiss-1, G protein-coupled receptor 54 (GPR54) and pituitary gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) were detected by RT-PCR. Results The day of vaginal opening was significantly advanced in the M than that in the N group. Compared with the M group, the Sar and L groups could significantly delay the opening time of vaginal (P < 0.001,P < 0.05,respectively). The Sar group could significantly decrease uterine and ovarian coefficients, and reduce uterine wall thickness (P < 0.05, respectively). In terms of serum hormones (LH, FSH, E2), the M group was significantly higher than the N group (P < 0.001,respectively). Moreover, the Sar group can significantly down-regulate the levels of serum hormones (P < 0.001, P < 0.01, P < 0.01,respectively). Also, the expression of GnRH, GnRH-R, Kiss-1 mRNA were significantly decreased in the Sar group compared with that in the M group (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions The results showed that sarsasapogenin had the effect of treating precocious puberty, and its mechanism might be to down-regulate the expression of GnRH and GnRH-R mRNA through the Kiss-/GPR54 system, thus delaying the initiation of HPG axis.
Optimizing the Efficiency and Implementation of Cash Transfers to Improve Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial (Study Protocol)
Authors: Packel Laura , Njau Prosper , Fahey Carolyn , Ramadhani Angela , Dow William H , Jewell Nicholas P , McCoy Sandra I
Published: March 2020

Background : Antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV, taken daily, is an effective strategy to clinically suppress the virus, providing the dual benefit of improved survival and vastly decreasing the risk of transmission. However, this highly effective intervention has not yet reached all who could benefit. Cash transfers are increasingly recognized as an effective strategy to motivate behavior change and improve outcomes along the HIV care continuum, including engagement in HIV care and adherence to ART. Despite a growing evidence base and strong theoretical foundation for the cash transfer approach, key questions remain. Specifically, gaps exist in understanding: 1) whether short-term cash transfers can increase viral suppression in larger, effectiveness studies; and 2) an implementation model or set of best practices that facilitate scale up and enhance sustainability. To address these questions and begin to bridge the “know-do gap” with respect to cash transfers, our team is employing an implementation science approach to iterative development of an incentive-based implementation strategy to promote ART uptake and adherence among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the Lake Zone Region, Tanzania. Methods: We will conduct a type I hybrid implementation – effectiveness trial to test the effectiveness of a cash transfer intervention on the outcome of HIV viral suppression, and concurrently examine the potential for real-world implementation with an mHealth system through measurement of implementation science constructs. Specifically, our team will expand the intervention to 32 clinics and enroll 1,984 PLHIV to (a) evaluate its effectiveness by conducting a cluster randomized controlled trial with clinics as the unit of randomization and 12-month viral suppression as the primary outcome – a key indicator for monitoring progress towards HIV epidemic control; and (b) evaluate the implementation challenges and successes by measuring implementation outcomes at multiple levels (patient, provider, clinic). Discussion: This trial will provide evidence about not only the real-world effectiveness of cash transfers for retention in HIV care and viral suppression, but also on the implementation challenges and successes that will facilitate or hinder wider scale-up within Tanzania and beyond.
Multiple cutaneous nodules in a 7-month-old boy
Authors: Lu Qian , Shi Xiu-Yu , Wang Yang-Yang , Zhang Meng-Na , Wang Wen-Ze , Wang Jing , Wang Qiu-Hong , Chen Hui-Min , Zou Li-Ping
Published: March 2020

Objective Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disease and has many manifestations involves virtually any organ. In this study, we report a TSC patient with new type skin lesions. Methods The 7-month-old patient had cardiac rhabdomyoma, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) and hypomelanotic macules. He presented with a 2-month history of gradual growth multiple cutaneous nodules. We performed biopsy of cutaneous nodules and whole-exome sequencing in both paraffin block tissue and blood samples. Results The pathological finding of cutaneous nodules was consistent with juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG). The whole-exome sequencing identified TSC1 (c.2356C>T, p.R786*) mutation in both paraffin block tissue and blood samples. Based on both clinical signs and genetic testing, our patient was definitely diagnosed with TSC and JXG was a new type of skin lesions in TSC. The symptoms improved significantly especially the JXG skin lesions after the treatment of sirolimus. Conclusion This is the first report of JXG skin lesions in TSC patient. Genetic testing is necessary in JXG. These findings expand the phenotype of skin in TSC and pave the way toward an understanding of the pathogenesis and treatment of JXG.
Associations between breastfeeding and cognitive function in children from early childhood to school-age: A panel study
Authors: Kim Min Kyoung , Choi Jae-Won
Published: March 2020

Background Despite the evident benefits of breastfeeding for preventing acute physical illnesses in infants, the evidence for the benefit of breastfeeding on long-term cognitive development is not yet convincing. Methods The subjects of this study were 1,752 children who participated in the Panel Study on Korean Children. Breastfeeding duration was prospectively assessed by parents. The Korean Ages and Stages Questionnaire (K-ASQ) and the Korean version of the Denver II were utilized to assess early development from birth to age two (T1 to T3). Language development at age three (T4) was assessed with Receptive and Expressive Vocabulary Tests. Cognitive function at age eight (T9) was assessed using Multifactorial intelligence test. Results Children who were breastfed for one to three months displayed significantly higher odds ratios for delayed development assessed at T2 compared to those breastfed for three to six months. Children who were breastfed for more than three months also scored significantly higher on the communication and problem-solving subscales of the K-ASQ at T2 and T3, the expressive language subscale at T4, and the vocabulary and language inference vocabulary subscales at T9 compared to children who were breastfed for less than three months. Conclusion We found that cognitive development was improved in children that were breastfed for more than three months. Although these results are supported by previous studies, it is important to note that other factors were larger determinants of cognitive development than breastfeeding. Future studies that examine the underlying mechanism for the association between breastfeeding and cognitive development are warranted.
Genomics-assisted prediction of salt and alkali tolerances and functional marker development in apple rootstocks
Authors: Liu Jing , Shen Fei , Xiao Yao , Fang Hongcheng , Qiu Changpeng , Li Wei , Wu Ting , Xu Xuefeng , Wang Yi , Zhang Xinzhong , Han Zhenhai
Published: March 2020

Background: Saline, alkaline, and saline-alkaline stress severely affect plant growth and development. The tolerance of plants to these stressors has long been important breeding objectives, especially for woody perennials like apple. The aims of this study were to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and to develop genomics-assisted prediction models for salt, alkali, and salt-alkali tolerance in apple rootstock. Results: A total of 3,258 hybrids derived from the apple rootstock cultivars ‘Baleng Crab’ ( Malus robusta Rehd., tolerant) × ‘M9’ ( M. pumila Mill., sensitive) were used to identify 17, 13, and two QTLs for injury indices of salt, alkali, and salt–alkali stress via bulked segregant analysis. The genotype effects of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers designed on candidate genes in each QTL interval were estimated. The genomic predicted value of an individual hybrid was calculated by adding the sum of all marker genotype effects to the mean phenotype value of the population. The prediction accuracy was 0.6569, 0.6695, and 0.5834 for injury indices of salt, alkali, and salt–alkali stress, respectively. SNP182G on MdRGLG3 , which changes a leucine to an arginine at the vWFA-domain, conferred tolerance to salt, alkali, and salt-alkali stress. SNP761A on MdKCAB , affecting the Kv_beta domain that cooperated with the linked allelic variation SNP11, contributed to salt, alkali, and salt–alkali tolerance in apple rootstock. Conclusions: The genomics-assisted prediction models can potentially be used in breeding saline, alkaline, and saline-alkaline tolerant apple rootstocks. The QTLs and the functional markers may provide insight for future studies into the genetic variation of plant abiotic stress tolerance.
Brain metastases from differentiated thyroid cancer occurring during and after radioactive iodine therapy: a report of four cases and literature review
Authors: Takata Noriko , Hamamoto Yasushi , Miyagawa Masao , Makita Kenji , Ishikawa Hirofumi , Tsuruoka Shintaro , Nagasaki Kei , Mochizuki Teruhito
Published: March 2020

Background Brain metastases from differentiated thyroid cancer are uncommon, and the prognosis of patients with them is poor. To explore the optimal treatment for this entity, we retrospectively investigated incidence and features of brain metastases from differentiated thyroid cancer that appeared during and after radioactive iodine therapy. Methods Between 2002 and 2012, 89 patients of differentiated thyroid cancer were included (median age, 63-years; male/female = 29/60). The median follow-up time from first ablation was 63 months (range: 1–175 months). The median cumulative radioactive iodine dose was 8.51 GBq (range: 1.11–42.55 GBq). Results During the follow-up, brain metastases occurred in four (4.5 %) patients. The median follow-up time after first ablation of four patients was 69 months (22, 63, 76 and 105 months). They had already had extracranial metastases at first ablation (lung metastases: 3, lung and bone metastases: 1), and had one or more lesions resistant to radioactive iodine therapy at diagnosis of brain metastasis. Three of them had experienced major hemorrhage from brain metastasis. Survival time intervals from the diagnosis to brain metastasis were 2.5, 3.6, 13 and 13.1 months. Conclusion Brain metastases of differentiated thyroid cancer were relatively uncommon. Prognosis of patients with brain metastasis was unfavorable because of frequent major brain hemorrhage and frequent existence of concomitant extracranial lesions resistant to radioactive iodine therapy. To prevent intracranial hemorrhage, early treatment seemed to be necessary for brain metastases from differentiated thyroid cancer.
Amyloid-beta peptide and phosphorylated tau in the frontopolar cerebral cortex and in the cerebellum of toothed whales: aging vs hypoxia
Authors: Sacchini Simona , Díaz Josué , Monteros Antonio Espinosa de los , Paz Yania , de Quirós Yara Bernaldo , Sierra Eva , Arbelo Manuel , Herráez Pedro , Fernández Antonio
Published: March 2020

Background: Alzheimer’s disease results from the interplay of multiple risk factors and their effects. Diving mammals may be routinely exposed to severe hypoxia when submerged. Among toothed whales, the beaked whales are particularly cryptic and routinely dive deeper than 1,000 m for about one hour in order to hunt deep-water squid and fish. We hypothesized that hypoxia could be a possible risk factor for neurodegenerative alterations in the central nervous system of beaked whales in particular, and toothed whales in general. Results: Samples of frontal cerebral cortex and cerebellum were collected from nine animals, representing six different species of the suborder Odontoceti. Immunohistochemical analysis employed a monoclonal anti-β-amyloid (Aβ) and a polyclonal anti-neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) antibodies. Six of nine (67%) animals showed positive immunolabeling for Aβ and/or NFT. The most striking findings were intranuclear Aβ immunopositivity in cerebral cortical neurons and NFT immunopositivity in cerebellar Purkinje neurons with granulovacuolar degeneration. Herein, we present immunohistopathological findings classic of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases in humans, in different brain locales of odontocete cetaceans. This study represents the first description of Aβ and NFT in the brain of beaked whales, adding also to the non-existent descriptions of GVD in the brain of non-experimental animals, being specifically the first report of granulovacuolar degeneration in the cerebellum. Our results further confirm the rarely reported intranuclear expression of Aβ. Conclusions: These findings could be linked to hypoxic phenomena, as they were more extensive in the brains of beaked whales, and not only in aged individuals. Therefore, a novel hypothesis linking hypoxia and neurodegeneration microscopic hallmarks in cetaceans is proposed. Despite their adaptations, diving mammals could be vulnerable to sustained and repetitive brain hypoxia. Future comparative pathological and neuroprotective investigations may prove of great value to Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases in humans.
Obesity and Places Where People Living in Sao Paulo City, Brazil
Authors: Barbosa João Paulo dos Anjos Souza Barbosa , Aguiar Breno Souza , Failla Marcelo Antunes , Barrozo Ligia Vizeu , Fisberg Regina Mara , Florindo Alex Antonio
Published: March 2020

Background The built environment characteristics and urban form can influence health outcomes like obesity in people living in high-income countries. However, there are few studies in megacities from middle-high income countries like Brazil in which the built environment has been modified and obesity has been growing slightly. Therefore, the objectives of this study were: 1) to describe the body mass index (BMI) and obesity in different health administrative areas in Sao Paulo; 2) to investigate the association between BMI and obesity with the places where people lived according to social and demographics variables, health variables, built environment, and family per capita income. Methods This was a cross-sectional study that used the Sao Paulo Health Survey dataset (2015) with 3,145 individuals (18 years or older). The weight and height were self-reported and was calculated the BMI. Residential locations were geocoded, types and the mix of destinations were calculated in 500m buffers. We used multilevel models to examine the association between BMI and obesity with the places where the people lived. Results The Midwest region showed the highest mean of the mix of destinations than other areas and the lowest prevalence of overweight and obesity. The BMI was higher for people that lived in North, Southeast, South, and East than Midwest after adjusted. Individuals that lived in North (OR=1.69 CI95% 1.18-2.43) and Southeast (OR=1.66 CI 95%1.17-2.37) had increased the likelihood for obesity compared with Midwest after adjusted by social and demographic variables, physical activity level, mix of destinations, and family per capita income. Conclusion This study found that individuals that lived in the North, Southeast, South, and East had higher BMI than people who lived in Midwest, and people that lived in the North and Southeast had increased the likelihood of obesity compared with the Midwest area. The place where people living can influence BMI and obesity in megacities like Sao Paulo, Brazil. Key words: Body Mass Index, Obesity, Built Environment, Multilevel analysis.
Diagnosis and Prognosis of Retroperitoneum Liposarcoma: a single Asian center cohort of 57 cases
Authors: Liu Jianghao , Xiao Jianchun , He Xiaodong
Published: March 2020

Background Liposarcoma is a form of malignancy found in soft tissues, mostly observed in the extremities. However, retroperitoneum liposarcoma has been seldom reported, and such diagnosis is also neglected. This study aims to present the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and prognosis of 5 different subtypes of liposarcoma and report our experience of treatment of the patients. Methods We conducted a single-center non-intervention retrospective study of 57 retroperitoneal liposarcoma patients who were admitted to Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH, Beijing, China) from December 2007 to May 2018. We collected and analyzed the demographic, clinical, imaging, histologic, therapeutic and prognostic data for these patients over a mean 4.5-year follow up period. Results Twenty-five (44%) patients were asymptomatic prior to diagnosis, with abdominal distension as the chief complaint for 18 (32%) patients and abdominal pain observed in 16 (28%) patients. Masses were evaluated by CT (n=48, 84%) or ultrasound (n=25, 44%). Laparotomy (n=52, 91%) was the preferred dominant therapeutic modality rather than laparoscopy (n=5, 9%). All patients were treated with R0 resection except 2 patients who underwent R2 resection. We conducted regular follow-up every 6 months after surgery for a mean duration of 4.5 years. Recurrence was experienced by 15 (26%) patients and a further 11 (19%) died during follow up. Conclusions Abdominal distension and pain are main chief complaints of liposarcoma. As extremity is the main location for liposarcoma occurrence, diagnosis of retroperitoneum liposarcoma is usually neglected. Since half of the patients are asymptomatic, timely diagnosis and treatment are highly dependent on regular ultrasound and CT imaging. R0 resection is the key to retroperitoneal liposarcoma treatment. Comparingly, patients underwent R2 resection, which is considered as a palliative treatment, have bad prognosis. Dedifferentiated liposarcoma, especially those with organ invasion, tend to have bad prognosis, and prognosis for well-differentiated or myxoid liposarcoma is relatively good.
The prognostic values and clinical implications of m6A methylation regulators in epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: shen huimin , Cao Tiefeng , Li Jinhui
Published: March 2020

Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) exists in both DNA and RNA modification. RNA m6A modification drives tumor initiation and metastasis through regulating cancer stem cells. However, the detailed mechanisms and the distinct m6A regulatory gene type underlying ovarian cancer mRNA modification remain unclear. Results: We analyzed copy number variation (CNVs) and mRNA expression of ovarian cancer cases in TCGA dataset to determine the copy number variation patterns of m6A regulatory genes, and the associations between m6A dysregulation or certain regulatory gene and overall survival. We showed the KIAA1429, as the writer gene, had highest amplification percentage and were associated with overall survival, or disease-free survival, whereas the associations with prognostic survival were independent of other prognostic factors including stage, grade, and debulking status of the tumour. Besides, METTL14 and YTHDC2, one as the writer gene and the other as reader gene, was also related with clinical outcome. Furthermore, subgroups analysis addressed that m6A upregulation especially writer gain contributed to prognosis in epithelial ovarian cancer. Conclusions: Collectively, our data addressed that m6A upregulation is likely to be critical to the clinical outcome, and KIAA1429 showed the highest correlation with clinical outcome in ovarian cancer among m6A regulatory genes.
Microbial diversity characterization of seawater in a pilot study using Oxford Nanopore Technologies long-read sequencing
Authors: Liem Michael , Regensburg-Tuïnk A.J.G. , Henkel C.V. , Spaink H.P.
Published: March 2020

Objective Currently the majority of non-culturable microbes in sea water are yet to be discovered, Nanopore offers a solution to overcome the challenging tasks to identify the genomes and complex composition of oceanic microbiomes. In this study we evaluate the utility of Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing to characterize microbial diversity in seawater from multiple locations. We compared the microbial species diversity of retrieved environmental samples from two different locations and time points. Results With only three ONT flow cells we were able to identify thousands of organisms, including bacteriophages, from which a large part at species level. It was possible to assemble genomes from environmental samples with Flye. In several cases this resulted in >1 Mbp contigs and in the particular case of a Thioglobus singularis species it even produced a near complete genome. k-mer analysis reveals that a large part of the data represents species of which close relatives have not yet been deposited to the database. These results show that our approach is suitable for scalable genomic investigations such as monitoring oceanic biodiversity and provides a new platform for education in biodiversity.
The role of routine flexible sigmoidoscopy in patients presenting with fistula-in-ano: an observational study
Authors: Waidyasekera Ruvindu H , Jayarajah Umesh , Samarasekera Dharmabandhu Nandadeva
Published: March 2020

Objective: Flexible sigmoidoscopy is useful to look for an underlying aetiology in fistula-in-ano. This study was aimed to assess the yield of routine flexible sigmoidoscopy in patients presenting with fistula-in-ano. A retrospective analysis of 159 consecutive patients with fistula-in-ano who underwent routine flexible sigmoidoscopy was performed. Sigmoidoscopy findings were recorded on a standard uniform format using a computer database. Those with a known aetiology were excluded. Results: The median age was 39(range:14-74) years and the majority were males(n=128,80.5%). Forty-nine patients(30.8%) presented with a recurrent fistula-in-ano. On flexible sigmoidoscopy, internal opening was seen in only 23 patients (14.4%). Furthermore, incidental findings of haemorrhoids (n=5, 3.1%) and polyps (n=7, 4.4%) were found. One patient(0.6%) had a healed anal fissure, 5 patients(3.1%) had inflamed mucosa and 2 patients(1.3%) had ulcers. Only two patients with inflamed mucosa were diagnosed to have Crohn’s disease on histology. Therefore, flexible sigmoidoscopy was not helpful in the majority to locate the internal opening. Only two patients had evidence of an underlying aetiology, which was Crohn’s disease. However, they had recurrent complex fistulae and other associated symptoms. Therefore, flexible sigmoidoscopy may be reserved for selected group of patients with symptoms of an underlying aetiology.
Pituitary metastasis in breast cancer: case report and literature review
Authors: Sha Xiaosong , Zhang Xiejun , Chen Lei , Yang Jihu , Huang Guodong
Published: March 2020

Background: Breast cancer commonly metastasizes to the lung, vertebrae or liver but rarely to the pituitary gland. The majority of cases have been reported during autopsy; however, with the improvements in diagnostic methods, there has been an increasing number of cases reported in the clinical setting. The main symptoms of pituitary metastasis are reported to be headache, diabetes insipidus and visual field defects, which may cause confusion regarding the clinical diagnosis.Case presentation: The present study describes a case of pituitary metastasis symptoms of diabetes insipidus and loss of vision in a patient with breast cancer. After the patient completed the evaluation, a neuroendoscopy-assisted endonasal transsphenoidal tumor resection was performed. The postoperative biopsy revealed metastatic breast cancer.Conclusions: The present study analyzed this patient and 16 other cases of pituitary metastases collected from the PubMed database. Lung cancer, breast cancer and lymphoma could metastasize to the sellar region, while certain other tumors from the liver, parotid, colon, prostate, stomach, kidney, thyroid or skin were also observed. The clinical manifestation was often dominated by pituitary dysfunction, intracranial hypertension and visual field defects. Certain patients may suffer from oculomotor nerve paralysis, electrolyte imbalance, diabetes insipidus or a loss of vision. Imaging findings revealed that sellar metastases often invaded the suprasellar region. In a few cases, the lesion enclosed intracranial vessels, and invaded the cavernous sinus or Meckel's cave. These characteristics resulted in difficulties during surgery.
Development and Validation of Liver Depression Type Infertility Quality of Life Scale Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Wang Ying , Liu Chang , Wang Xuan , Zhang Mengpei , Wang Zhiheng , Zhang Haoxiang , Wang Xiaomei , Pan Jie , Zuo Kaini , Zhu Wentao
Published: March 2020

Background Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) liver depression infertility quality of life scale is developed to provide a scientific and reliable tool for TCM treatment and intervention in the treatment of liver depression patients with infertility, as well as basis and assistance for clinical decision-making.Methods Literature research method: Through the retrieval of Chinese knowledge network (CNKI), Wanfang (WANFANG), Vip (VIP), Springer, PubMed database of existing Chinese life quality scale and infertility dedicated quality of life scale, an entry pool is built with symptoms, emotional state, social function state and satisfaction as dimensions. Using the Delphi method to screen the entries. Screening entries according to the results of expert review, and evaluating the positive degree coefficient, authority degree and coordination coefficient by the experts. Using the clinical questionnaire method to screen the entries further. To form the Chinese medicine liver depression infertility life of quality scale. Scale evaluation: the reliability and validity of the scale were evaluated based on the results of the clinical questionnaire. Results After two rounds of Delphi method, there are 33 entries remained. The clinical questionnaire rescreened entries, formed the traditional Chinese medicine liver depression infertility quality of life scale containing 4 dimensions of symptoms, emotional states, social function states and satisfaction, with total of 29 entries and VAS score scale. Evaluation results: the Kronbach alpha coefficients performed well in total and each aspect. The validity of the scale: the structural efficiency evaluation results are in good agreement with the scale structure envisioned at the time of design. The relationship between the quality of life scale and the standard scale (FertiQoL International2008) showed a high absolute value.Conclusion In this study, the quality of life scale of Chinese medicine liver depression type infertility was developed by literature research, Delphi method and clinical questionnaire, with good reliability and validity of the scale evaluated. It could be used as a tool for efficacy judgment tool or quality of life evaluation in Chinese medicine treatment or intervention for patients with liver depression infertility.
Transcriptome-wide identification and validation of reference genes of Black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) for quantitative RT-PCR
Authors: Jin Chaofan , Song Weihao , Wang Mengya , Qi Jie , Zhang Quanqi , He Yan
Published: March 2020

Background: The quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) is a widely used technique that relies on the reference gene for gene expression normalization. Selecting a suitable reference gene is a crucial step to obtain an accurate result in qRT-PCR. However, most previous studies of fishes adopted reference genes that were commonly used in mammals without validation. Results: In this study, we utilized 89 transcriptome datasets covering early developmental stages and adult tissues, and carried out transcriptome-wide identification and validation of reference genes in Sebastes schlegelii. Finally, 121 candidate reference genes were identified based on four criteria. Eight candidates (METAP2, BTF3L4, EIF5A1, TCTP, UBC, PAIRB, RAB10, and DLD) and four commonly used reference genes (TUBA, ACTB, GAPDH, RPL17) in mammals were selected for validation via qRT- PCR and four statistical methods (delta-Ct, BestKeeper, geNorm, and NormFinder). The results revealed that the candidate reference genes we recommended are more stable than traditionally used ones. Conclusions: This is the first study to conduct transcriptome-wide identification and validation of reference genes for quantitative RT-PCR in the black rockfish, and lay an important foundation for gene expression analysis in teleost.
Determining the different mechanisms used by Pseudomonas strains to cope with minimal inhibitory concentrations of zinc via comparative transcriptomic and metabolic analyses
Authors: Liu Pulin , Chen Jiahui , Liao Weifang , Miao Lihong
Published: March 2020

Background Pseudomonas is one of the most diverse bacterial genera identified in soil, water, plants and clinical samples. Genome sequence analysis has indicated that this genus can be clustered into three lineages and ten groups. Each group can adopt different mechanisms to thrive under zinc-depleted or high-zinc conditions, two environments that are frequently encountered during their environmental propagation. Results The response mechanisms of three prominent Pseudomonas strains (Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, Pseudomonas putida KT2440, and Pseudomonas fluorescence ATCC13525T) under high-zinc condition were compared using RNA-seq and ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analysis. Results demonstrated that the three strains shared only minimal similarity at the transcriptional level. Only four genes responsible for zinc efflux were commonly upregulated. P. aeruginosa PAO1 specifically downregulated the operons involved in siderophore synthesis and the genes that encode ribosomal protein, while upregulated the genes associated with antibiotic efflux and cell envelope biosynthesis. The membrane transporters in P. putida KT2440 were globally downregulated, indicating changes in cell permeability. Compared with P. aeruginosa PAO1 and P. putida KT2440, the most remarkable transcriptional variation in P. fluorescence ATCC13525 is the significant downregulation of the type VI secretion system. Metabolite quantitative analysis showed that low concentrations of the metabolites involved in central carbon metabolism and amino acid synthesis were detected in the three strains. Dipeptides containing branched-chain amino acids seems played an important role in alleviating stress caused by zinc ions. Conclusion The exclusion of cytoplasmic ions and reducing the intrusion of excess zinc are equally important for P. aeruginosa, P. putida, and P. fluorescence to withstand external zinc stress. Although similar metal efflux systems were commonly upregulated, these three strains apparently used different pathways to reduce zinc entry. In addition, zinc treatment can increase the difficulties of scavenging P. aeruginosa from its colonisation area, and reduce the effectiveness of P. fluorescence as a biocontrol agent.
Cancer treatment through hormone therapy and its relationship with Xerostomia and Hyposalivation
Authors: Medeiros Glaucia de , Fernandes Jheiniffer , Pompeo Daniela , Pereira Jefferson Ricardo
Published: March 2020

Background: the emergence of new drugs for cancer treatment has reflected on increasing patient survival. However, these drugs bring side effects, such as dry mouth sensation and hyposalivation. This study aimed to evaluating the relationship between patients with cancer and xerostomia and hyposalivation. Method : cross-sectional study with 114 patients diagnosed with cancer treated with anastrozole and / or bicalutamide. Age, type of neoplasia, gender, xerostomia, and type of medicine were obtained through questionnaire. Resting and stimulated salivary flow were collected by the researcher. After collection, using a 10 mL disposable syringe, salivary flow was quantified in millimeters and divided into 6 (collection period). A Descriptive statistical analysis, Chi-square test and T-test were carried out through Statistical Package for Social Science® (SSPS) version 21, considering p<0.05. Results : results showed that 67 (55.8%) patients who use hormone therapy presented hyposalivation and 73 (64. 0%) patients presented xerostomia. Conclusion : According to the results from this study, there is statistically significant association between stimulated hyposalivation and hormone therapy usage (p = 0.015). Statistically significant association was also observed among hyposalivation and xerostomia and hormone therapy usage (p=0.049 and p = 0.001).
Comparative RNA-Seq transcriptome analyses reveal dynamic time-dependent effects of 56Fe, 16O, and 28Si irradiation on the induction of murine hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Nia Anna M. , Khanipov Kamil , Barnette Brooke L. , Ullrich Robert L. , Golovko George , Emmett Mark R.
Published: March 2020

Background: One of the health risks posed to astronauts during deep space flights is exposure to high charge, high-energy (HZE) ions (Z>13), which can lead to induction of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, little is known on the molecular mechanisms of HZE irradiation induced HCC.Results: We performed comparative RNA-Seq transcriptomic analyses to assess the carcinogenic effects of 600 MeV/n 56 Fe (0.2 Gy), 1 GeV/n 16 O (0.2 Gy), and 350 MeV/n 28 Si (0.2 Gy) ions in a mouse model for irradiation-induced HCC. C3H/HeNCrl mice were subjected to total body irradiation to simulate space environment HZE-irradiation, and liver tissues were extracted at five different time points post-irradiation to investigate the time-dependent carcinogenic response at the transcriptomic level. Our data demonstrated a clear difference in the biological effects of these HZE ions, particularly immunological, such as Acute Phase Response Signaling, B Cell Receptor Signaling, IL-8 Signaling, and ROS Production in Macrophages. Also seen in this study were novel unannotated transcripts that were significantly affected by HZE. To investigate the biological functions of these novel transcripts, we used a machine learning technique known as self-organizing maps (SOMs) to characterize the transcriptome expression profiles of 60 samples (45 HZE-irradiated, 15 non-irradiated control) from liver tissues. A handful of localized modules in the maps emerged as groups of co-regulated and co-expressed transcripts. The functional context of these modules was discovered using overrepresentation analysis. We found that these spots typically contained enriched populations of transcripts related to specific immunological molecular processes (e.g., Acute Phase Response Signaling, B Cell Receptor Signaling, IL-3 Signaling), and RNA Transcription/Expression.Conclusions: A large number of transcripts were found differentially expressed post-HZE irradiation. These results provide valuable information for uncovering the differences in molecular mechanisms underlying HZE specific induced HCC carcinogenesis. Additionally, a handful of novel differentially expressed unannotated transcripts were discovered for each HZE ion. Taken together, these findings may provide a better understanding of biological mechanisms underlying risks for HCC after HZE irradiation, and may also have important implications for discovery of potential countermeasures against and identification of biomarkers for HZE-induced HCC.
Does the sex ratio of singleton births after frozen single blastocyst transfer differ according to blastocyst morphology?
Authors: Lou Hua , Li Na , Zhang Xiaoke , Sun Ling , Wang Xingling , Hao Dayong , Cui Shihong
Published: March 2020

Purpose: To investigate the associations between morphological blastocyst parameters and the sex ratio (male:female) of singleton live births resulting from single-blastocyst frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. Methods: This retrospective analysis included 1210 couples who underwent single-blastocyst FET of warmed day 5 or 6 blastocysts and achieved a singleton live birth between January 2015 and February 2019. The sex ratios in the different blastocyst groups were compared using the chi-square test. The associations of morphological blastocyst parameters, including the blastocoel expansion, inner cell mass and trophectoderm grades, with the sex ratios of live births were analyzed using multiple regression models. Results: The included female patients had an average age and body mass index of 30.5±4.5 years and 23.6±3.2 kg/m2, respectively. blastocyst transfers occurred on day 5 in 783 cases (64.7%) and day 6 in 427 cases (35.3%). Among the day 5 FET cycles, 55.4% of resulting infants were male and 44.6% were female, while among the day 6 cycles, 54.6% of infants were male and 45.4% were female ( P =0.074). Blastocysts quality was assessed according to morphological parameters, which was divided into high-quality (AA,AB,BB,BC) and poor-quality(AC,BC). High-quality blastocyst transfer was associated with a significantly higher sex ratio (60%, 383/638) relative to poor-quality transfer (49.7%, 284/572) ( P< 0.001). The sex ratio of births resulting from blastocyst transfer differed significantly with respect to the trophectoderm grade ( P <0.001). After adjusting for confounders, a grade B trophectoderm was significantly associated with a higher sex ratio among singleton live births (odds ratio: 0.591, 95% confidence interval: 0.463–0.756, P <0.001; reference: grade C trophectoderm). In contrast, the characteristics of blastocoel expansion and the score of the inner cell mass were not significantly associated with the sex ratio among singleton live births. Conclusions: The sex ratio among singleton live births is affected by the quality of blastocysts. A grade B trophectoderm is associated with a higher probability that a single-blastocyst FET cycle will result in a male infant.
Adaptation of AMPK-mTOR-signal pathways and lipid metabolism in response to low- and high-rapeseed meal diet in Chinese perch (Siniperca chuatsi)
Authors: Li Jiao , Liang Xu-Fang , Alam Muhammad Shoaib , Luo Haocan , Zhang Yanpeng , Peng Binbin , Xiao Qianqian , Zhang Zhilu , Liu Liwei , He Shan
Published: March 2020

Background: Chinese perch, a carnivorous fish, can accept artificial diet after domestication nowadays, and this farm way will gain high economic interest and sustainability. However, the high content and high quality requirement of dietary protein make it need the high cost in Chinese perch. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the effect of fish meal replacement by low- or high-rapeseed meal on growth performance, feeding, lipid and glucose metabolism. Methods: Three experimental diets were formulated with 0, 10% and 30% rapeseed meal, named as control, RSL and RSH, groups respectively. After the 8-week of feeding trial, growth performance, lipid metabolism and AMPK-mTOR-signal pathways were measured. Results: Chinese perch fed with RSH and RSL diets showed significantly decreased WG, SGR, BFR, VSI, MSI and the whole-body crude lipid compared to those fed with the control diet (P < 0.05). Fish in RSL group decreased feed intake, serum LDL-C, hepatic mRNA expression of LPL, PEPCK and phosphorylated Grb10 (P < 0.05). In visceral adipose tissue, mRNA expression of FAS, SREBP1, ACC1, HL, CPT1 and PEPCK were all significantly down-regulated (P < 0.05). Fish in RSH group showed phosphorylated AMPK, hepatic mRNA expression of SREBP1, ACC1, FAS, PPARα and CPT1 were down-regulated, while HSL, G6PD and PC were up-regulated (P < 0.05). In visceral adipose tissue, mRNA expressions of SREBP1, LPL, CPT1 and PEPCK were down-regulated, while mRNA expression of HSL was up-regulated (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Chinese perch fed with RSL and RSH diets showed decreased fat deposition in viscera. Fish fed with low level of rapeseed meal diet ate less diet, which caused inhibited lipid metabolism in the liver and visceral adipose tissues.Fish fed with high level of rapeseed meal diet inhibited hepatic FA synthesis, activated lipolysis, hence reducing Acetyl-CoA pool. In turn, β-oxidation were inhibited, glycolysis was activated, thus lipid accumulation was decreased. In visceral adipose tissue, lipid uptake was inhibited, caused inhibited FA synthesis, β-oxidation, glycerol synthesis, and improved lipolysis.
Surgical ligation of patent ductus arteriosus in very low birth weight infants: A 9-year single center experience
Authors: Lee Jun Ho , Lee Hyun Ju , Park Hyun-Kyung , Ahn Ja-Hye , Kim Hee Sun , Jang Hyo Jun , Ro Sun Kyun , Kim Hyuck
Published: March 2020

Background We analyzed the feasibility and outcomes of early surgical ligation in very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs) with hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (HSPDA) and investigated predictors for surgical treatment after unsuccessful medical management. Methods Medical records from the neonatal intensive care unit of Hanyang University Seoul Hospital from January 2010 to December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. 233 VLBWIs with HSPDA were enrolled in our study. Of these infants, 134 underwent surgical ligation and were subdivided into the early ligation group (n = 49; within 10 days of age) and the late ligation group (n = 85; after 10 days of age). Results The mean gestational age and birth weight were significantly lower in the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) ligation group than in the Non-ligation group (p < 0.001). PDA ductal diameter > 2.0 mm (p < 0.001), low Apgar score at 5 minutes (p = 0.033), and chorioamnionitis (p = 0.037) were the predictors for receiving surgical treatment for PDA. Early ligation was significantly associated with a low incidence of culture-proven sepsis (p = 0.004), mechanical ventilator time > 4 weeks (p = 0.007), necrotizing enterocolitis stage (NEC) ≥ III (p = 0.022), and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) grade ≥ III (p = 0.035). Conclusions Early surgical ligation minimizes adverse effects of HSPDA in predicted infants who subsequently require surgical treatment for PDA. We suggest that predicted VLBWIs with HSPDA that is unresponsive to medical treatment should avoid delayed ductal closure to reduce severe NEC, severe IVH, culture-proven sepsis, and facilitate earlier endotracheal extubation.
Deciphering symbiotic interactions of ‘Candidatus Aenigmarchaeota’ with inferred horizontal gene transfers and co-occurrence networks
Authors: Li Yu-Xian , Rao Yang-Zhi , Qi Yan-Ling , Qu Yan-Ni , Chen Ya-Ting , Jiao Jian-Yu , Shu Wen-Sheng , Jiang Hongchen , Hedlund Brian P. , Hua Zheng-Shuang , Li Wen-Jun
Published: March 2020

Background: ‘Ca. Aenigmarchaeota’ represents an evolutionary branch within the DPANN superphylum. However, their ecological roles and potential host-symbiont interactions are poorly understood.Results: Here, we analyze eight metagenomic-assembled genomes from hot spring habitats and reveal their functional potentials. Although they have limited metabolic capacities, they harbor substantial carbohydrate metabolizing abilities. Further investigation suggests that horizontal gene transfer might be the main driver that endows these abilities to ‘Ca. Aenigmarchaeota’, including enzymes involved in glycolysis. Additionally, members from the TACK superphylum and Euryarchaeota contribute substantially to the niche expansion of ‘Ca. Aenigmarchaeota’, especially genes related to carbohydrate metabolism and stress responses. Based on co-occurrence network analysis, we conjecture that ‘Ca. Aenigmarchaeota’ may be symbionts associated with TACK archaea and Euryarchaeota, though host-specificity might be wide and variable across different ‘Ca. Aenigmarchaeota’ genomes. Conclusion: This study provides significant insights into possible host-symbiont interactions and ecological roles of ‘Ca. Aenigmarchaeota’.
Induction tolerance with donor hematopoietic stem cell infusion in kidney transplantation: a single-center experience in China with 10-year follow-up
Authors: Wang Xuanchuan , Yang Cheng , Hu Linkun , Wei Zheng , Tang Qunye , Chen Bing , Ji Yuan , Xu Ming , Zeng Zhaochong , Rong Ruiming , Zhu Tongyu
Published: March 2020

Background. We performed the first clinical trial in China in which kidney transplantation was combined with donor hematopoietic stem cell (DHSC) infusion for tolerance induction. This study summarizes the 10-year follow-up results. Methods. From 2009 to 2017, 11 cases of living-related kidney transplantation combined with DHSC infusion were performed. Two of them were HLA-matched, and nine were HLA-mismatched. The DHSCs were mobilized using granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and harvested one day before transplantation. The recipients received consecutive total lymphoid irradiation for 3 days before kidney transplantation. The induction drug was anti-thymocyte globulin. DHSCs were infused on the 2 nd , 4 th and 6 th postoperative days. Results. One HLA-matched recipient induced 30-50% chimerism, and the others only induced less than 1% chimerism. Recipients had a low immune response to their donors while sustaining normal reactivity to non-donors in mixed lymphocyte reactions. All recipients were followed up for 717~3,918 days. One recipient lost allograft function, and 10 recipients had stable renal function. None of the 11 recipients had myelosuppression or graft-versus-host disease post transplantation. Our protocol did not increase the risk of infection. Allograft biopsy confirmed that one patient had mild acute rejection, and the other 10 recipients did not develop rejection. Five patients reduced the dose of immunosuppression. Conclusions. This study shows that long-term stable kidney allograft survival may be achieved with low-dose immunosuppression maintenance using our protocol. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-TNC-09000399. Registered 22 April 2009 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn