bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of blast resistance QTLs based on two advanced backcross populations in rice
Authors: Jiang Haichao , Feng Yutao , Qiu Lei , Gao Guanjun , Zhang Qinglu , He Yuqing
Published: February 2020

Background: Rice blast is an economically important and mutable disease of rice. Using host resistance gene to breed resistant varieties has been proven to be the most effective and economical method to control rice blast and new resistance genes or quantitative trait loci (QTLs) are then needed. Results: In this study, we constructed two advanced backcross population to mapping blast resistance QTLs. CR071 and QingGuAi were as the donor parent to establish two BC 3 F 1 and derived BC 3 F 2 backcross populations in the Jin23B background. By challenging the two populations with natural infection in 2011 and 2012, 16 and 13 blast resistance QTLs were identified in Jin23B/CR071 and Jin23B/QingGuAi population, respectively. Among Jin23B/CR071 population, 3 major and 13 minor QTLs have explained the phenotypic variation from 3.50% to 34.08% during six observation times. And, among Jin23B/QingGuAi population, 2 major and 11 minor QTLs have explained the phenotypic variation from 2.42% to 28.95% during six observation times. Conclusions: Sixteen and thirteen blast resistance QTLs were identified in Jin23B/CR071 and Jin23B/QingGuAi population, respectively. QTL effect analyses suggested that major and minor QTLs interaction is the genetic basis for durable blast resistance in rice variety CR071 and QingGuAi.
Derangements in Coronary Calcium Score and Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain in Patients Post Left Breast Radiotherapy
Authors: Okwuosa Tochi , Palomo Andres , Dangana Thelma , Yakupovich Anel , Basu Sanjib , Fughhi Ibtihaj
Published: February 2020

Background Radiotherapy is a common treatment for breast cancer, with unintended long-term CV consequences; and no consensus on adequate CV screening methods to prevent future events. We aimed to assess the use of coronary artery calcium (CAC) and left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) to identify those at risk for CVD due to radiotherapy. Methods Using data from an urban cancer registry, we enrolled 17 women (mean age 62 years) with left-sided breast cancer from 1999-2003, treated with radiotherapy. Agatston CAC score was measured by CT scan; and GLS by echocardiography. Logistic regression was used to compare study CAC scores with historical controls using age- and race-matched (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) MESA CAC calculator [derived from MESA cohort from 6 US communities, free of clinical CVD at baseline (2000-2002) https://www.mesa-nhlbi.org ]; and GLS with historical controls from prior meta-analysis with defined normal GLS values ( Yingchoncharoen et al). Results The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test reported a significant lack of fit (p < 0.02) compared with the expected probability of non-zero CAC in the historical controls from MESA. The mean GLS of -20.6% (95% CI: -21.50%, -19.79%), and was not statistically different when compared with the average of the historical controls. However, there was a significant difference of GLS compared to the meta-analysis using a one-sample T test with P=0.03. Conclusion We found that women post left sided breast radiotherapy had higher CAC presence without significant difference in mean GLS, compared with historical controls from the MESA database and prior GLS meta-analysis.
Antiobesity activity of Acer tegmentosum Maxim on 3T3-L1 preadipocyte and high-fat diet-induced obese rats
Authors: Cho Hang-Hee , Lee Soo-Jung , Kim Sung-Ho , Jang Sun-Hee , Won Chungkil , Kim Hong-Duck , Kim Tae Hoon , Cho Jae-Hyeon
Published: February 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Acer tegmentosum Maxim (ATM) on adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 adipocyte-derived cells and anti-obesity properties in high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats.

Methods: 3T3-L1 adipocytes and HFD-induced obese rats were treated with ATM, and its effect on gene expression was analyzed using RT-PCR and Western blotting experiments.

Results: Cellular lipid contents in DMI (dexamethasone, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, and insulin mixture)-treated cells increased, while ATM treatment caused a significant reduction in lipid accumulation in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells. ATM caused inhibition of adipogenesis via down-regulation of the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β (C/EBPβ), C/EBPα, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) expressions in 3T3-L1 cells. Moreover, treatment with ATM caused a decrease in the expressions of adipocyte-specific genes, such as adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein-2 (aP2), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and lipoprotein lipase (LPL), compared with DMI-stimulated adipocytes. In addition, phosphorylation levels of protein kinase B (Akt) and its downstream substrate, glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), were significantly decreased by ATM treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Together, these results indicated that ATM caused inhibition of both adipocyte differentiation via suppression of the C/EBP family and PPARγ expressions and the Akt signaling pathway in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In the present study, we further investigated anti-obesity effects of ATM on HFD-induced obese rats. Rats fed with HFD demonstrated elevations in body weight gain, while the administration of ATM significantly reversed BW gains and adipose tissue weights in rats fed HFD. ATM supplementation also caused a decrease in the circulating triglyceride levels and total cholesterol levels and led to inhibition of lipid accumulation in the adipose tissues in HFD-induced obesity in rats. Furthermore, epididymal fat exhibited larger adipocytes in the HFD group, whereas the ATM-treated group was significantly smaller than that of HFD group. These results strongly demonstrate that ATM administration caused a reduction in adiposity via attenuation in adipose tissue mass and adipocyte size.

Conclusion: These finding demonstrated that ATM exerted anti-obesity effects through inhibition of adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis, leading to a decrease in BW and fat tissue mass in HFD-induced obesity in rats.
A novel COMP Mutation in a Chinese Family with Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia
Authors: Shao Jiashen , Zhao Sen , Yan Zihui , Wang Lianlei , Zhang Yuanqiang , Lin Mao , Yu Chenxi , Wang Shengru , Niu Yuchen , Li Xiaoxin , Qiu Guixing , Zhang Jianguo , Wu Zhihong , Wu Nan
Published: February 2020

Background: Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia (MED) is a skeletal disorder characterized by delayed and irregular ossification of the epiphyses and early-onset osteoarthritis, at least 66% of the reported autosomal dominant MED (AD-MED) cases are caused by COMP mutations. Methods : Here, we reported a four-generation Chinese family with early-onset hip osteoarthritis, flatfoot, brachydactyly, and mild short stature. Whole exome sequencing was performed on the proband followed by enquiring family history, detailed physical examination, and radiographic evaluation. After that, the pathogenicity of candidate mutation was also analyzed. Results : We recruited a dominant MED family with 10 affected members and 17 unaffected members. The main radiographic findings were symmetric changes in dysplastic acetabulum and femoral head, irregular contours of epiphyses, shorted femoral neck, and flatfoot. Lower bone density of ankle joint , wrist joint, and knees were observed as well as irregular vertebral end plates. As a result, we found a missense mutation c.1153G>T (p. Asp385Tyr) located in the exon 11 of COMP gene. This mutation was assessed as “pathogenic” for the low allele frequency and a high likelihood of co-segregation with disease in the reported family. Sanger sequencing identified a novel heterozygous mutation c.1153G>T (p. Asp385Tyr), in exon 11 of COMP gene in all affected male individuals. Conclusions: Our result underlined the key role for Asp385 amino acid in the protein function of COMP, and first confirmed the pathogenicity of COMP (c.1153G>T; p. Asp385Tyr) in AD-MED disease. We expanded the mutational spectrum of COMP and phenotypic information of AD-MED.
PSORS1C1 gene polymorphism is associated with autoimmune thyroid diseases in the Chinese population
Authors: Author) Yanfei Jiang(Former Corresponding , Liu Zhiwen , Song Ronghua , Mu Kaida , Yang Yanping , Zhang Jinan
Published: February 2020

Objective Autoimmune thyroid disease(AITD) is not only an immune-related disorder, but also inherited as a complex gene-related disease. The psoriasis susceptibility 1 candidate 1(PSORS1C1) gene is a susceptibility locusin autoimmune diseases. Many autoimmune diseases have been proved to be related with the PSORS1C1 gene. However, whether the PSORS1C1 gene plays a role in affecting the predisposition to AITD remains unknown.Methods In this study, we included 1056 Chinese Han AITD patients and 954 matched healthy controls. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology was used to genotype SNPs (rs3130983, rs3778638, rs3815087, rs4959053)in PSORS1C1 gene. Results An association between rs3778683 and Graves' disease (GD) was observed with statistical significance (p=0.039). The allele and genotype of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs3130983, rs3815087 and rs4959053 showed no significant association with AITDs. In addition, no linkage disequilibrium for rs3130983, rs3815087, rs3778638 and rs4959053 in PSORS1C1 gene was found between AITD patients and controls.Conclusion These data revealed the influence of PSORS1C1 on the susceptibility to AITDs and reinforced this locus as a common autoimmunity risk factor.
Non-linear dynamical feature of center of pressure extracted by approximate entropy in people with various stages of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Karimi mohammad , Mirahmadi Mina
Published: February 2020

Introduction : Postural instability, one of the most important features of Parkinson’s Disease (PD), is associated with increased falls and loss of independence in these population. It is postulated the abilities of individuals to adjust to environmental perturbation for postural control is different in various stages of PD. The aim of current study is to investigate the non-linear dynamical feature of COP in various stages of PD and in different environmental challenges. Method : 38 persons with PD (mild PD =19, moderate PD =6 and sever PD =13) and 33 healthy aged, gender, weight and height matched subjects were asked to stand on force plate in four test conditions included: 1) Rigid Surface with Opened Eyes, 2) Rigid Surface with Closed Eyes, 3) Foam Surface with Opened Eyes, and 4) Foam Surface with Closed Eyes. COP velocity and Approximate Entropy (ApEn) in both Anteroposterior (AP)/Mediolateral (ML) directions were calculated. A Mixed ANOVA 4*2*2 (Group*Vision*Surface) test was applied for statistical analysis . Results : Both COP velocity and COP ML ApEn were significantly higher in participants with PD in comparison to healthy individuals. Moreover, COP ML ApEn increased by eye closure in all studied groups but the amount of this increase was lesser in PD groups. For COP velocity, vision, surface and group interaction was significant in all directions (P ≤ 0.016). For COP ApEn, vision, surface and group interaction (P = 0.002) were statistically meaningful in only ML direction. Conclusion : Balance system irregularity is more in people with PD compared to healthy matched individuals. In addition, their adaptive capacity of the postural control system in response to environmental perturbation is reduced. PD induced complexity of the postural control system is associated with the loss of adaptive behavior that is organized over the confluence of constraints of the individual, environment and task.
Inequity of Health-Income Effect in employ workers in China: a longitudinal study from China Family Panel Survey(2012-18)
Authors: XIE Mengxue , Zang Wenbin
Published: February 2020

Background Analyses using classical regression models show that health has significant impact on income. However, in the case of widening income gap, estimating the average effect of health on income would aggregate the inequality of health-income effect for poor workers. Methods Data came from four waves of China Family Panel Survey data from 2012 to 2018. We generalized a balance panel data including worker characteristics, job information and health status. The final sample of our study includes 19,540 person-year observations aged between 18 to 70 years. Panel Quantile Regression method was used to analyse the effect of health on income for workers under different income distribution.Results The regression estimates show that the effects of health on income are larger at 25th and 50th quantile of distributions, 21% and 16.9% respectively. We test the robustness by the heterogeneity of workers’ gender and register living regions, find that health is more important for female workers and rural workers. Last, we find that workers who participated in manual labour were more dependent on their health than those involved in brain work. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the inequality of health-income effect would underestimate the importance of health for lower income workers, especially for poor female and rural ones. In addition, we also find that the mechanism of reduced income effect due to the difference of the employment type.
Quantitative analysis of TMT phosphorylation modification to investigate the effect of verbascoside on the expression of phosphorylated protein in AD cell model
Authors: Haiyan Xing
Published: February 2020

Ethnopharmacological relevance— The active monomer Verbascum glycosides in Cistanche tubulosa has good development prospects in terms of neuroprotection and delaying neurodegenerative diseases, and it has become one of the research hot spots. Aim of the study— To investigate the effect of verbascoside (OC1) on the expression of phosphorylated protein in the protective effect of AD cell model by TMT labeling and phosphorylation enrichment technique and high-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry quantitative proteomics research strategy. Materials and Methods— The normal control group, the model group (Aβ 1-42 10μmol/L) group and the OC1 administration group (10μg/ml) group were set. (1)protein extraction quality control.(2)TMT mark.(3)HPLC classification and modification enrichment. (4)Analysis of mass spectrometry by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. (5)Analysis of bioinformatics results.(6)Western Blotting was used to detect the expression levels of p-CaMKII(Thr286), p-Synapsin (Ser9) / Synapsin, Synaptophysin and Synaptotagmin-1 protein. Results— The study finally identified 9020 phosphorylation sites on 3227 proteins, of which 8635 sites of 3134 proteins contained quantitative information. Screening of differential sites follows the following criteria: 1.2 times the change threshold and CV value < 0.1. Based on the above data and standards, we performed a systematic bioinformatics analysis of proteins containing quantitative information sites. Western Blotting results showed that Verbascoside could promote the expression of p-CaMKII (Thr286), p-Synapsin (Ser9) / Synapsin, Synaptophysin and Synaptotagmin-1 protein. Conclusions— Verbascoside (OC1) can increase the expression of phosphorylated protein in AD cell model, which provides a basis for further study on the molecular mechanism of verbascoside promoting neurotransmitter release.
Associations between perceived environmental pollution and health-related quality of life in a Chinese adult population
Authors: Han Bingxue
Published: February 2020

Background Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures are being used in increasingly diverse populations. However, there have no known studies to date to examine the associations between perceived environmental pollution and HRQoL in a Chinese adult population. This study aimed to report the associations between air, water, noise pollution and HRQoL among Chinese populations. Methods A cross-sectional survey data was used from East Asian Social Survey 2010 with a sample of 3866 Chinese populations in environmental pollution. HRQoL was computed by SF-12 and reflected by physical and mental component summary score (PCS & MCS). Ordinary least regression analyses were used to examine associations between perceived environmental pollution and PCS and MCS scores. Models in SPSS PROCESS were selected to demonstrate the moderating and mediating effects. Results Only considering one pollutant, perceived air pollution and perceived water pollution had significant associations with PCS and MCS scores. Perceived noise pollution had significant associations with PCS scores. Perceived air×noise, air×water, noise×water, and air×noise×water pollution had significant associations with PCS and MCS scores. Conditional (moderated) mediation showed that there were no moderating effects and mediating effects of perceived one pollutant on another pollutant. Conclusions Co-occurring perceived environmental pollution were mainly associated with progressive increase in PCS and MCS scores among the Chinese adult population. These results suggested that some effective policies should be carried out to improve environmental quality across Chinese adult population.
How long does a hip-preserving surgery with vascularized pedicle iliac bone grafts for femur head necrosis last? A systematic review and meta-analysis of case series with an average more than 5-year follow-up
Authors: Zhu Xingyang , Zhang Haitao , Sun Xiaobo , Zeng Yuqing , Li Feilong , Chen Jinlun , Deng Peng , Ye Pengcheng , Zeng Yirong
Published: February 2020

Background: Hip-preserving surgeries with vascularized pedicle iliac bone grafts (VPIBG) are effective for osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). However, few studies exist about the long-term efficacy of this procedure. The aim of this meta analysis was to investigate how long does this hip-preserving surgery last. Methods: A comprehensive search was carried out through PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Collaboration Library for all relevant studies up to November 2019. The literature search strategy contained Medical Subject Headings and terms relating to ONFH and bone transplantation. All included studies were articles on VBIPG for ONFH, with an average follow-up of more than 5 years. Interesting outcomes included clinical success rates, complications, and conversion rates of THA. The data from eligible studies were then extracted and synthesized. The pooled effect size (ES) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results: Ten studies were finally selected. Eight studies including 3413 hips were pooled into the meta-analysis of success rates, the overall ES was 0.89 (95% CI, 0.86–0.92). In subgroup analysis, the ES was 0.88 (95% CI, 0.78–0.98) and 0.90 (95% CI, 0.87–0.92) at an average 5-10 years and 10-15 years follow-up, respectively. Pooled analysis of THA conversion rates derived from 7 studies (3389 hips) showed the overall ES of 0.10 (95% CI, 0.09–0.11). Seven studies (3396 hips) were included in a meta-analysis of complication rates, and the overall ES was 0.12 (95% CI, 0.08–0.18). The most common complications were secondary wound healing (37.6%), numbness or paresthesia of the lateral thigh (22.4%), and deep vein thrombosis (19.6%). Conclusions: The hip-preserving surgery with VPIBG is a safe and effective treatment for early-stage ONFH, but it should be used with caution in the treatment of advanced femoral head necrosis. The pooled data from this study suggested that 90% of the hips in patients with ONFH lasted 10 years after this surgery. However, most of the included studies are case series, and these conclusions will need the support of high-quality research in the future.
Midterm outcome analysis of bipolar hemiarthroplasty for unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures: A retrospective study
Authors: CHO Hongman , Kim Sun Do , Park JiYeon , Kwon KiHyun , Lee Young
Published: February 2020

Background: Recent advances in medical systems and technologies have resulted in increased survival after intertrochanteric fractures of the femur, requiring the selection of appropriate femoral stems considering mid- to long-term durations. We performed hip hemiarthroplasty for unstable intertrochanteric fractures using a Wagner cone femoral stem (Group A) and double tapering right angled femoral stem (C2 stem, Group B), and evaluated the clinical imaging results. Methods From January 2004 to December 2013, 79 patients (79 hips) who underwent hip hemiarthroplasty with a cone stem (36 cases) and C2 stem (43 cases) were included. During the follow-up period, clinically, changes in pain (visual analog scale [VAS] score), walking ability, and Harris Hip score were examined. Radiologically, changes in the proximal femur were observed. We also reviewed the complications that occurred. Results Patients’ mean ages were 77.2 (70-83) years and 78.6 (70-84) years, and mean follow-up periods were 84.7 (60-108) months and 85.4 (60-96) years in Groups A and B, respectively. Postoperative pain (VAS score) and the Harris hip score were not significantly different between the groups until 24 months and 36 months, respectively. However, VAS scores from 36 months postoperatively and Harris hip scores from 48 months postoperatively indicated that Group B patients had significantly higher VAS scores and lower Harris hip scores. There was no significant difference in walking ability between the groups; however, in Group B, walking ability was reduced by one grade in 13 patients and by two grades in nine. Cortical bone osteoporosis occurred in four and 14 cases in Groups A and B, respectively. In Group B, five patients developed cortical bone resorption, and four of them had nonunion of trochanteric fracture fragments. Conclusions Hip hemiarthroplasty using a cementless femoral stem for unstable intertrochanteric fractures requires careful selection of the stem, considering the remaining life of the patient. When using a 3C stem for unstable intertrochanteric fractures, it is thought that the firm fixation of fractured trochanteric fragments is necessary, and for a reverse oblique fracture, it is better to use the 3B stem with a suitable length.
Comparison of the gluteus medius strength between obese and eutrophic individuals: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fenato Rafael Ratti , Araujo Allan Cezar Faria , Guimarães Ana Tereza Bittencourt
Published: February 2020

Background The hip abductor muscles play an important role in stabilizing the pelvis during gait, its main function being performed by the gluteus medius. Gluteus medius insufficiency is associated with biomechanical alterations and musculoskeletal disorders. Due to overweight and a possible muscle mass decrease, maintaining the abductor muscular function can be a great challenge for obese. However, it is still unclear whether the musculature of obese individuals manages to compensate for these alterations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the gluteus medius strength between obese and normal weight individuals using a digital hand-held dynamometer. Methods Twenty-five obese (body mass index > 35 kg / m 2 ) participated in the study, being matched in gender, age, and height with normal weight individuals. The gluteus medius strength was measured by a single examiner using a belt-stabilized hand-held digital dynamometer on the knee of individuals positioned in lateral decubitus. Three measurements were recorded with rest intervals, considering only the highest value measured for each limb for analysis. The difference between pairs was calculated and the data distribution pattern was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test (p < 0.05), and the matrices of the variables were standardized and analyzed using the principal component analysis (PCA). Results For the strength variables (Newtons) on both sides, no statistical differences were detected between groups (p > 0.05). However, statistical differences were detected in these variables between groups (p < 0.05) when normalizing the measurements in relation to individuals' weight (Newtons / kilograms). The PCA indicates that both strength in absolute values and normalized by weight are reduced in obese individuals. Conclusions These findings indicate that obese individuals have the same or lower strength (PCA) to move more mass, which may suggest a relative weakness that induces functional limitation.
Early Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes of the Fertilized ACL
Authors: Lavender Chad , Berdis Galen , Singh Vishavpreet , Kopiec adam , Jasko John
Published: February 2020

Background: The aim of this research study is to examine the early radiographic and clinical outcomes as well as the safety of the Fertilized anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction procedure. Methods: A total of 14 patents with a mean age of 22.9 (range, 16-45), who had been treated with a Fertilized ACL were evaluated. Clinical outcomes including VAS at 2 and 6 weeks, rate of re-rupture, release to full activity, and incidence of complications were assessed. Radiographic outcomes were assessed through qualified orthopedic surgeons' ability to detect operative features of an ACL reconstruction on patient's ipsilateral tibia radiographs when compared to a standardized set of tibial radiographs. Results: Mean VAS score at 2 weeks and 6 weeks follow up were 1.73 (range, 0-4) and .83 (range, 0-2.5), respectively. There were no cases of rerupture and all patients were returned to activity. One patient underwent a manipulation under anesthesia and diagnostic arthroscopy. There were 0 infections. On radiographic assessment, surgeons correctly identified 58/60 (p<0.05) were correctly identified as having any operative features after undergoing a Fertilized ACL reconstruction. Conclusion: Early pain scores after the Fertilized ACL reveal minimal pain at 2 and 6 weeks and clinical results show no signs of an increased risk compared to standard ACL reconstructions. The early radiographic appearance of the tibial tunnel in the Fertilized ACL technique is more similar to a healthy non-operative tibia than standard ACL reconstructions
Mass Psychogenic Illness in Haraza Elementary School, Tigray, Northern Ethiopia: Investigation to the nature of an Episode.
Authors: Fenta Kiros , Wubayehu Tewolde , Bezabih Nega Mamo , Meles Yrgalem , Mehari Goitom , Abenezar Abenezar , Desta Abraham Aregay , Berhe Asfawosen Aregay , Weldegebriel Ataklti Gebretsadik , Gebru Tesfay Subagadis , Anelo Micheale Jorjo
Published: February 2020

Background Mass psychogenic illness has been documented for more than 600 years in a variety of culture, ethnic, and religious settings. The aim of this study was to assess the nature and characteristics of mass psychogenic illness in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia, Methods School based cross-sectional study was conducted in haraza elementary school from January –February, 2020. Students who were victims of an episode were subjects of the study. A total of twelve students were investigated using semi-structured questionnaire for quantitative study. Seven key informant interviews were conducted using guiding questionnaires. Quantitative data was analyzed using XL sheet while qualitative data was analyzed manually. Result the mean age of study participants was 14 years (SD±1.3). Majority (87%) were teenage female students. The incident was unspecified disease with psychiatric disorder, migraine and syncope with no plausible organic causes. An important feature of migraine and syncope was their co-morbidity with mass psychogenic illness. The community perceived that Evil-devil force and blaming as being an evil-eye were common causes for the occurrence of an episode. Conclusion lack of empirical knowledge and awareness about its management and prevention among community members and health professionals resulted exaggerated rumor that would perceived as newly emerging disease that affected school activities. Integrating MPI in PHEM package at health facility level, advocacy workshops for media and other relevant stakeholders will minimize its impact for the future.
Weighted gene co-expression network analysis identifies potential candidate biomarkers for adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction
Authors: Lai Zhiyong , Yang Wenhui , Li Weibin , Zhang Tiantian , Jia Kai , Jiang Kewei , Xu Jun
Published: February 2020

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth most common kind of malignant tumor, and commonly leads to death. As a subtype of gastric cancer, adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG), accounts for about 50% of all gastric cancer cases. So far, the systematic co-expression analysis of this tumor has not fully explained its pathogenesis. The purpose of this study was to construct RNAs co-expression networks to predict candidate hub genes associated with the tumorigenesis of AEG. Methods: The RNA-seq data of 22 AEG patients was processed with weighted gene co-expression network analysis strategy. Differentiate the modules with clinical tumor markers and preservation, and carry out gene ontology and pathway enrichment analysis. We identified the co-expression modules and used GO and KEGG terms to investigated the functional enrichment of co-expression genes, suggesting that blue and brown modules are related to the biological processes of tumorigenesis. Results: Twenty-five distinct co-expression gene modules were identified, and as the top hub genes of tumorigenic gene modules, CD93, TRIM28, SLC3A2, CBX4, PATL1, and ZNF473 with high intramodular connectivity were assumed as intramodular hub genes in AEG. Conclusion: The weighted gene co-expression network analysis conducted in this study screened out CD93, TRIM28, SLC3A2, CBX4, PATL1, and ZNF473 may act as candidate biomarker in GC and AEG.
Identification and Analysis of the Key Genes associated with the Development from Liver Cirrhosis to Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Li Tianyu , Ding Fang , Yan Huimin
Published: February 2020

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent primary liver tumor, and one of the most common malignant cancer with poor prognosis. Liver cirrhosis is the major risk factor for HCC. The aim of this study was to identify potential key genes associated with the development from liver cirrhosis to HCC and explore their potential mechanisms. Methods: Four microarray datasets GSE17548, GSE63898, GSE25097 and GSE89377 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database, and potential hub genes were screened using MCODE plug-in in Cytoscape software. The Oncomine database was used to verify the expression of differential genes in cirrhosis and HCC. In order to further verify those hub genes, the hierarchical cluster between normal and HCC tissues was constructed using the UCSC Cancer Genomics Browser. The UALCAN database was used to verify the difference of hub genes in normal and HCC tissues and in different tumor grades. Finally, the cBioPortal online platform was used to analyze the association between the expression of hub genes and prognosis in HCC.Results: A total of 360 DEGs, including 280 downregulated and 80 upregulated genes, were identified. Gene ontology enrichment (GO) analysis showed that these DEGs were mainly enriched in monooxygenase activity, cofactor binding, and oxidoreductase activity (acting on CH-OH group of donors). The mainly enriched pathways were complement and coagulation cascades, prion diseases, and arachidonic acid metabolism. By extracting key modules from the PPI network, 16 hub genes were screened out. In the hierarchical cluster of hub genes between normal and HCC tissues, the results showed that the expression level of 16 hub genes in HCC tissues was significantly higher than that in normal tissues. In addition, expression level of the hub genes was significantly associated with the tumor grades. The survival analysis showed that six hub DEGs, including KIF20A,HMMR, RRM2, TPX2, TTK and UBE2C, were closely associated with the poor prognosis of HCC.Conclusion: Our study discovered six novel potential genes associated with the development from liver cirrhosis to HCC. These key genes may be used as prognostic biomarkers and molecular therapeutic targets for HCC.
Functional analysis of SlERF01 gene in the disease resistance to S.lycopersici
Authors: Yang Huanhuan , Li Jingfu
Published: February 2020

Background: Tomato gray leaf spot disease caused by Stemphylium lycopersici (S. lycopersici) is a serious disease that can severely affect tomato production. So far, only resistance gene Sm has been reported and the molecular mechanism of tomato resistance to the disease remains unclear. To better understand this mechanism of tomato resistance to S. lycopersici, qRT-PCR analysis, physiological index determination, microscopic observation and transgenic technology were used in this study.Results: Our results showed that SlERF01 could be strongly induced by S. lycopersici and the exogenous hormones salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA). Furthermore, overexpression of SlERF01 enhanced the hypersensitive response to S. lycopersici and elevated the expression of defense genes in tomato. Furthermore, the accumulation of lignin, callose and H2O2 was increased in transgenic lines after inoculation with S. lycopersici. Here, our results showed that SlERF01 played an indispensable role in among multiple SA, JA and ROS signaling pathways to confer resistance to S. lycopersici invasion. Our findings also indicated that SlERF01 could activate PR1 gene expression and enhance resistance to S. lycopersici.Conclusions: We identified SlERF01, a novel tomato AP2/ERF transcription factor. The Functional verification demonstrated SlERF01 positively regulated tomato resistance to S. lycopersici. Our findings indicate that SlERF01 plays a key role in the multiple SA, JA and ROS signaling pathways to confer resistance to invasion by S. lycopersici. The findings of this study not only can help to better understanding of mechanisms of response to pathogens, but also will enable targeted breeding strategies for tomato resistance to S. lycopersici.
Significance of nuclear upregulation of LOXL2 in fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in the fibrotic process of acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Matsuo Ayako , Yanagi Shigehisa , Tsubouchi Hironobu , Miura Ayako , Shigekusa Takafumi , Matsumoto Nobuhiro , Nakazato Masamitsu
Published: February 2020

Background: Fibrotic scarring is an important prognostic factor for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2), an amine oxidase, is thought to make an integral contribution to fibrotic scarring by facilitating collagen cross-linking. LOXL2 has also been proposed to epigenetically regulate gene expression to direct cell fate. Recent clinical outcomes demonstrated the ineffectiveness of an inhibitory monoclonal antibody against LOXL2 in patients with organ fibrosis, including fibrosis of the lungs, suggesting that sole targeting of the extracellular activity of LOXL2 is insufficient to prevent fibrotic scarring. Moreover, the involvement of LOXL2 in human ARDS remains unknown. Methods: Expression dynamics of LOXL2 during the pathological process of bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung injury model were measured by qRT-PCR and western blotting. The principal cell types expressing LOXL2 and its cellular localization were determined by immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. Mlg 2908, a murine lung fibroblast line, was transfected with LOXL2 siRNA or control siRNA, and then assessed for transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-induced Axin2+ myofibrogenic progenitor (AMP) marker expression, actin filament expression, myofibroblast differentiation, collagen expression, and alteration of the TGF-β1/Smad/Snail pathway by phalloidin staining, qRT-PCR, western blotting, and immunocytochemistry. Levels of LOXL2 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in patients with ARDS and control subjects were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: LOXL2 expression was elevated in lung tissue in the fibrotic phase after injury. Nuclear upregulation of LOXL2 in fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, as well as nuclear upregulation of Snail in myofibroblasts, was evident in fibrotic lung tissue after injury. LOXL2 knockdown blocked TGF-β1-induced AMP marker expression, appearance of proto-myofibroblasts, evolution of differentiated myofibroblasts, collagen expression, and pSmad2/Snail induction in lung fibroblasts. We detected high levels of LOXL2 protein in the BALF from patients with ARDS, specifically during the fibrotic phase. Conclusions: Our results revealed that nuclear LOXL2 is upregulated in lung fibroblasts and myofibroblasts after injury and is required for generation of myofibroblast and maintenance of AMP. The high levels of LOXL2 in human ARDS lung suggest that inhibition of both intracellular and extracellular LOXL2 activity represents an attractive therapeutic target for ARDS and lung scarring.
Solitary Fibrofolliculoma of the Upper Eyelid in a 68-year Old Female: A Case Report
Authors: Wang Wenqiu , Cheng Jinwei
Published: February 2020

Background : Fibrofolliculoma is a benign, perifollicular, connective tissue tumor, and it usually arises in the form of multiple lesions, but rarely as a solitary lesion. We report a case of solitary fibrofolliculoma on the eyelid.
Case presentation: A 68-year-old female presented with an asymptomatic mass on the right upper eyelid. The lesion appeared as a flesh-colored, dome-shaped, smooth nodule being the size of 5×5×4 mm, with eyelashes protruding from the surface, and located on the upper lid margin. Shave excision was performed, and the diagnosis of fibrofolliculoma was confirmed finally through histological exam.
Conclusions: Solitary fibrofolliculomas rarely arises on the eyelid. However, it should be suspected when a flesh-colored and doom-shaped lesion of the eyelid is encountered. The benign tumor on the lid margin can be removed by shave biopsy.
Low-energy neutron scattering on light nuclei and $^{19}$B as a $^{17}$B-$n$-$n$ three-body system in the unitary limit
Authors: Carbonell Jaume , Hiyama Emiko , Lazauskas Rimantas , Marqués Francisco Miguel
Published: February 2020

We consider the evolution of the neutron-nucleus scattering length
for the lightest nuclei. We show that, when increasing the number of
neutrons in the target nucleus, the strong Pauli repulsion is weakened
and the balance with the attractive nucleon-nucleon interaction results
into a resonant virtual state in ^{18}18B.
We describe ^{19}19B
in terms of a ^{17}17B-nn-nn
three-body system where the two-body subsystems
^{17}17B-nn
and nn-nn
are unbound (virtual) states close to the unitary limit. The energy of
^{19}19B
ground state is well reproduced and two low-lying resonances are
predicted. Their eventual link with the Efimov physics is discussed.
This model can be extended to describe the recently discovered resonant
states in ^{20,21}20,21B.
Latest results concerning short range correlations obtained in the dp elastic and dp breakup processes at Nuclotron, JINR
Authors: Janek Marian , Ladygin Vladimir P. , Averyanov Alexander V. , Chernykh Eugene V. , Enache Dan D. , Gurchin Yuri V. , Isupov Alexandr Yu. , Karachuk Julia-Tatiana , Khrenov Anatoly N. , Krivenkov Dimitry O. , Kurilkin Pavel K. , Ladygina Nadezhda , Livanov Alexei N. , Mezhenska Olena , Piyadin Semen M. , Reznikov Sergei G. , Skhomenko Yaroslav T. , Terekhin Arkady A. , Tishevsky Alexei V. , Uesaka Tomohiro
Published: February 2020

Deuteron spin structure program is aimed on extraction of two and
three nucleon forces information, including their spin dependent parts,
from dp elastic and dp breakup processes investigated at intermediate
energies. The dp elastic data were obtained at Internal Target Station
of Nuclotron (JINR) in the energy range 400-1800 MeV using polarized
deuteron beam. Strong sensitivity to the short range spin structure of
the isoscalar nucleon-nucleon correlations is observed in deuteron
analyzing powers. Preliminary results of the the cross section for the
dp breakup reaction have been obtained at 400 MeV of deuteron
energy.
An-aesthetic: Performed philosophies of sensation, confusion, and intoxication
Authors: Geary Paul
Published: February 2020

In Michel Serres’ The Five Senses: A Philosophy of Mingled Bodies, he establishes an opposition between two mouths: the anaesthetising, speaking mouth of discourse and analysis and the aesthetic, tasting mouth of sensation. This article uses Serres’ model of the two mouths to think about the performance of knowledge and philosophy in a sensory performance event and the potential of intoxication to unveil or reveal through a process of ‘making strange’. The article begins with an outline and reading of Serres, considering his writing on the two mouths and their indicative models of knowledge, before moving to think about philosophies of confluence or confusion; the pouring or flowing together of different forms of knowing. This is coupled with outlining two modes of intoxication (losing oneself into the status quo and a process of estrangement) to think about the politics of aesthetic sensory experience in the age of commodification of live(d) experience. The second half of the article turns to a dining-performance event by Kaye Winwood entitled After Dark (2016). The event is used as a basis for more personal reflections, considering the ways intoxication makes strange and enters into performance as a revelatory experience. The article proposes a number of interconnected arguments: that sensory experience and embodiment offer a mode of knowledge; that intoxication as ‘making strange’ has potential as a philosophical gesture; and that in that estrangement, there is potential to resist the coopting of live(d) or sensory experience in an economy of commodification.
On (In)security: A conversation on education and intergenerational dialogues
Authors: Bebek Carolin , Katafiasz Kate , Schuitema Karian , Weber Benjamin
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a QA conversation held at the Performance Philosophy Biennial in Amsterdam, 2019. Three presentations responded to the conference call of ‘intervening in the habit of academia as a place for mature or adult voices,’ by exploring ways of making space for children’s voices. Connected by a focus on intergeneration dialogues, children’s disruption and the possibilities of empowerment, both within education and within familial structures, the three presentations opened a discussion about interpellation, sensitivity and (in)security. This paper presents this discussion in a reworked and extended format, offering insight into the presentations on the day, the subsequent conversation and the overarching questions that these dialogues provoke.
A Novel Hybrid Metaheuristic Approach to Perceive the Gender Based Identification System
Authors: Shukla Aparna , Kanungo Suvendu
Published: February 2020

Background:

Gender recognition is one of the most challenging perceptible tasks that receiving attention in the increasing digital data era as the requirement of personalized, reliable and ethical system inevitable. A problem that we address in this paper, greatly deals with the gender based identification system. We are motivated by this problem as many recent social interactions and existing services rely on the gender of an individual, and also in forensic identification, the gender information provides the feasibility for easy and quick investigation.

Objective:

The paper primarily focused on the gender based identification problem and culminate a robust gender based recognition system with the higher accuracy rate. We attempted to perceive the gender of an individual through the multimodal biometric system by integrating the three prominent biometric traits namely: fingerprint, palm-print and hand in a specific manner. The proposed multimodal biometric for gender recognition system provides a better accuracy rate improvement with the optimal feature set which are generated from available high dimensional features set.

Method:

Aiming for the objective to reduce the search space, a hybrid meta-heuristic approach
GSA-Firefly (GFF) is introduced in this paper. The optimization approach GFF is proposed to retrieve
the optimal number of features from the high dimensional features generated by fusing the
texture features of all the three considered biometric traits along with the fingerprint minutiae features.
Furthermore, the decision tree classifier is used to classify the gender of an individual.

Results:

The feasibility of the proposed approach is measured with different qualitative performance parameters. In light of achieving the accuracy rate of 99.2%, it shows that its performance comparatively better against other techniques reported in the literature with the different sets of classier.

Conclusion:

The hybridization technique that effectively integrate meta-heuristic approaches GSA and firefly outperforms other similar approaches with respect to obtaining the optimal features of multimodal biometric for gender based identification system. Further, the novel technique enhance the overall performance of the system by reducing the search space over time and space.
Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment by Intervention in Interleukin-1 Biology
Authors: Voronov Elena , Apte Ron N.
Published: February 2020

The importance of anti-tumor immunity in the outcome of cancer is now unequivocally established and
recent achivements in the field have stimulated the development of new immunotherapeutical approaches. In
invasive tumors, widespread inflammation promotes invasiveness and concomitantly also inhibits anti-tumor
immune responses. We suggest that efficient tumor treatment should target both the malignant cells and the tumor
microenvironment. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a pro-inflammatory as well as an immunostimulatory cytokine that is
abundant in the tumor microenvironment. Manipulation of IL-1 can thus serve as an immunotherapeutical approach
to reduce inflammation/immunosuppression and thus enhance anti-tumor immunity. The two major IL-1
agonistic molecules are IL-1α and IL-1β, which bind to the same IL-1 signaling receptor and induce the same
array of biological activities. The IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-Ra) is a physiological inhibitor of IL-1 that binds
to its receptor without transmition of activation signals and thus serves as a decoy target. We have demonstrated
that IL-1α and IL-1β are different in terms of the producing cells and their compartmentalization and the amount.
IL-1α is mainly expressed intracellularly, in the cytosol, in the nucleus or exposed on the cell membrane, however,
it is rarely secreted. IL-1β is active only as a secreted molecule that is mainly produced by activated myeloid
cells. We have shown different functions of IL-1α and IL-1β in the malignant process. Thus, in its membrane-
associated form, IL-1α is mainly immunostimulatory, while IL-1β that is secreted into the tumor microenvironment
is mainly pro-inflammatory and promotes tumorigenesis, tumor invasiveness and immunosuppression.
These distinct functions of the IL-1 agonistic molecules are mainly manifested in early stages of tumor development
and the patterns of their expression dictate the direction of the malignant process. Here, we suggest that IL-1
modulation can serve as an effective mean to tilt the balance between inflammation and immunity in tumor sites,
towards the latter. Different agents that neutralize IL-1, mainly the IL-Ra and specific antibodies, exist. They are
safe and FDA-approved. The IL-1Ra has been widely and successfully used in patients with Rheumatoid arthritis,
autoinflammatory diseases and various other diseases that have an inflammatory component. Here, we provide
the rationale and experimental evidence for the use of anti-IL-1 agents in cancer patients, following first line
therapy to debulk the major tumor's mass. The considerations and constraints of using anti-IL-1 treatments in
cancer are also discussed. We hope that this review will stimulate studies that will fasten the application of IL-1
neutralization at the bedside of cancer patients.