bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Value of Three Combined Ultrasonography Modalities in Predicting the Risk of Metastasis to Axillary Lymph Nodes in Breast Invasive Ductal Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Qing , Agyekum Enock Adjei , Zhu Linna , Yan Lingling , Zhang Lei , Wang Xian , Yin Liang , Qian Xiaoqin
Published: September 2021

Objective

The present study aimed to assess the clinical value of conventional ultrasound (C-US), ultrasound elastography (UE), percutaneous contrast-enhanced ultrasound (P-CUES), and the combination of these three ultrasonography modalities for evaluating the risk of axillary lymph node (ALN) metastasis in breast invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).

Methods

This retrospective analysis included 120 patients with pathologically confirmed IDC who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) or axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Based on the gold standard of postoperative pathology, ALN pathology results were evaluated and compared with findings obtained using C-US, UE, P-CUES, and the three modalities combined.

Results

(1) There was a statistically significant difference between the histological grade of the tumor and the pathological condition of ALNs. (2) The difference between C-US parameters and UE score were statistically significant. The accuracy of P-CEUS localization of SLNs was 100% (96/96) when compared with localization guided by methylene blue. The difference in the distribution of the four SLN enhancement patterns was statistically significant. (3) The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of C-US and UE were 75%, 71%, 58%, and 89%, and 71%, 72%, 50%, and 86%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of P-CUES were 91%, 82%, 78%, 92%, respectively. When all three modalities were combined, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 94%, 89%, 86%, and 95%, respectively. In the detection of ALN metastasis, there was a good correlation between histopathological results and evaluations based on the three combined ultrasonography modalities (kappa: 0.82, p<0.001).

Conclusions

When compared to C-US, UE, or P-CEUS alone, the combination of the three ultrasonography modalities was found to be superior in distinguishing metastatic and non-metastatic ALNs. This combined strategy may aid physicians in determining the most appropriate approach to ALN surgery as well as the prognosis of breast IDC.
Comparison Between Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery in Elderly Patients With Endometrial Cancer: A Retrospective Multicentric Study
Authors: Corrado Giacomo , Vizza Enrico , Perrone Anna Myriam , Mereu Liliana , Cela Vito , Legge Francesco , Hilaris Georgios , Pasciuto Tina , D’Indinosante Marco , La Fera Eleonora , Certelli Camilla , Bruno Valentina , Kogeorgos Stylianos , Fanfani Francesco , De Iaco Pierandrea , Scambia Giovanni , Gallotta Valerio
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Elderly endometrial cancer (EEC) patients represent a challenging clinical situation because of the increasing number of clinical morbidities. In this setting of patients, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been shown to improve surgical and clinical outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the peri-operative and oncological outcomes of EEC patients who had undergone laparoscopic (LS) or robotic surgery (RS).

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective multi-institutional study in which endometrial cancer patients of 70 years or older who had undergone MIS for EC from April 2002 to October 2018 were considered. Owing to the non-randomized nature of the study design and the possible allocation biases arising from the retrospective comparison between LS and RS groups, we also performed a propensity score-matched analysis (PSMA).

Results

A total of 537 patients with EC were included in the study: 346 who underwent LS and 191 who underwent RS. No significant statistical differences were found between the two groups in terms of surgical and survival outcomes. 188 were analyzed after PSMA (94 patients in the LS group were matched with 94 patients in the RS group). The median estimated blood loss was higher in the LS group (p=0.001) and the median operative time was higher in the RS group (p=0.0003). No differences emerged between LS and RS in terms of disease free survival (DFS) (p=0.890) and overall survival (OS) (p=0.683).

Conclusions

Our study showed that when compared LS and RS, RS showed lower blood losses and higher operative times. However, none of the two approaches demonstrated to be superior in terms of survival outcomes. For this reason, each patient should be evaluated individually to determine the best surgical approach.
Clinical Study of Sintilimab as Second-Line or Above Therapy in Patients With Advanced or Metastatic Gastric Cancer: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Nie Caiyun , Lv Huifang , Liu Yingjun , Chen Beibei , Xu Weifeng , Wang Jianzheng , Chen Xiaobing
Published: September 2021

Background

The present study was conducted to analyze the clinical efficacy and safety of sintilimab as second-line or above therapy for patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer.

Methods

Patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer that progressed after prior systemic therapies and treated with sintilimab from March 2019 to July 2020 were retrospectively analyzed in this study. The primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary end points included objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS), and safety.

Results

Fifty-two patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer received sintilimab monotherapy or combination therapy after they failed from prior systemic therapies. Eight patients achieved partial response (PR), 26 patients had stable disease (SD), and 18 patients had progressive disease (PD). The ORR and DCR were 15.4% (8/52) and 65.4% (34/52), respectively. Median PFS was 2.5 months (95% CI = 2.0–3.0), and median OS was 5.8 months (95% CI = 4.9–6.7). The ORR and DCR were 30.0% (6/20) and 80.0% (16/20), respectively, in intestinal subtype, which were superior than in non-intestinal subtype (ORR: 6.3%, DCR: 56.3%). Patients with intestinal subtype obtained longer PFS (4.0 vs. 1.9) and OS (9.0 vs. 4.1) than those with non-intestinal subtype. The incidence of grade 3–4 adverse events was 44.2%.

Conclusions

Sintilimab monotherapy or combination therapy provides a feasible therapeutic strategy for patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer who failed from prior systemic therapies. The efficacy of sintilimab in intestinal subtype was superior than that in non-intestinal subtype.
Investigate the Dosimetric and Potential Clinical Benefits Utilizing Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy With Simultaneous Integrated Boost Technique for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: A Comparison Between Photon and Proton Beam Therapy
Authors: Liu Peilin , Gao Xian-shu , Wang Zishen , Li Xiaomei , Cao Xi , Jia Chenghao , Xie Mu , Lyu Feng , Shang Shiyu , Ding Xuanfeng
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To investigate the potential clinical benefits of using stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) technique for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) among different treatment modalities and planning strategies, including photon and proton.

Method

A total of 19 patients were retrospectively selected in this study: 13 cases with the tumor located in the head of the pancreas and 6 cases with the tumor in the body of the pancreas. SBRT-SIB plans were generated using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), two-field Intensity Modulated Proton Therapy (IMPT), and three-field IMPT. The IMPT used the robust optimization parameters of ± 3.5% range and 5-mm setup uncertainties. Root-mean-square deviation dose (RMSD) volume histograms were used to evaluate the target coverage robustness quantitatively. Dosimetric metrics based on the dose-volume histogram (DVH), homogeneity index (HI), and normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) were analyzed to evaluate the potential clinical benefits among different planning groups.

Results

With a similar CTV and SIB coverage, two-field IMPT provided a lower maximum dose for the stomach (median: 18.6GyE, p<0.05) and duodenum (median: 32.62GyE, p<0.05) when the target was located in the head of the pancreas compared to VMAT and three-field IMPT. The risks of gastric bleed (3.42%) and grade ≥ 3 GI toxicity (4.55%) were also decreased. However, for the target in the body of the pancreas, VMAT showed a lower maximum dose for the stomach (median 30.93GyE, p<0.05) and toxicity of gastric bleed (median: 8.67%, p<0.05) compared to two-field IMPT and three-field IMPT, while other maximum doses and NTCPs were similar. The RMSD volume histogram (RVH) analysis shows that three-field IMPT provided better robustness for targets but not for OARs. Instead, three-field IMPT increased the Dmean of organs such as the stomach, duodenum, and intestine.

Conclusion

The results indicated that the tumor locations could play a critical role in determining clinical benefits among different treatment modalities. Two-field IMPT could be a better option for LAPC patients whose tumors are located in the head of the pancreas. It provides lower severe toxicity for the stomach and duodenum. Nevertheless, VMAT is preferred for the body with better protection for the possibility of gastric bleed.
A Prediction Model of Extubation Failure Risk in Preterm Infants
Authors: Cheng Zimei , Dong Ziwei , Zhao Qian , Zhang Jingling , Han Su , Gong Jingxian , Wang Yang
Published: September 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to identify variables and develop a prediction model that could estimate extubation failure (EF) in preterm infants.

Study Design: We enrolled 128 neonates as a training cohort and 58 neonates as a validation cohort. They were born between 2015 and 2020, had a gestational age between 250/7 and 296/7 weeks, and had been treated with mechanical ventilation through endotracheal intubation (MVEI) because of acute respiratory distress syndrome. In the training cohort, we performed univariate logistic regression analysis along with stepwise discriminant analysis to identify EF predictors. A monogram based on five predictors was built. The concordance index and calibration plot were used to assess the efficiency of the nomogram in the training and validation cohorts.

Results: The results of this study identified a 5-min Apgar score, early-onset sepsis, hemoglobin before extubation, pH before extubation, and caffeine administration as independent risk factors that could be combined for accurate prediction of EF. The EF nomogram was created using these five predictors. The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve was 0.824 (95% confidence interval 0.748–0.900). The concordance index in the training and validation cohorts was 0.824 and 0.797, respectively. The calibration plots showed high coherence between the predicted probability of EF and actual observation.

Conclusions: This EF nomogram was a useful model for the precise prediction of EF risk in preterm infants who were between 250/7 and 296/7 weeks' gestational age and treated with MVEI because of acute respiratory distress syndrome.
6-Gingerol Alleviates Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Cerebral and White Matter Injury and Contributes to Functional Recovery
Authors: Zhao Man , Yao Yuan , Du Jingyi , Kong Liang , Zhao Tiantian , Wu Dong , Man Lajie , Zhou Wenjuan
Published: September 2021

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is one main cause of neonatal death and disability, causing substantial injury to white and gray matter, which can lead to severe neurobehavioral dysfunction, including intellectual disability and dyskinesia. Inflammation, nerve cell death, and white matter injury are important factors in the pathological process of HIE. 6-Gingerol is a ginger extract, which reduces inflammatory response and cell death. However, the role of 6-Gingerol in neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HIBI) remains unknown. In this study, we constructed a mouse HIBI model and analyzed the protective effect of 6-Gingerol on HIBI by using behavioral tests, histological staining, qPCR and western blot. Here, we found that 6-Gingerol treatment could alleviate HIBI and improve short-term reflex performance, which is closely related to cell death and neuroinflammation. Additionally, 6-Gingerol reduced neuronal apoptosis, pro-inflammatory factor release, as well as microglial activation. Furthermore, 6-Gingerol significantly improved motor disability, which is associated with white matter damage. Thus, our results showed that 6-Gingerol could reduce the loss of myelin sheaths, alleviate cell death of oligodendrocytes, and stimulate the maturation of oligodendrocytes. In terms of mechanism, we found that 6-Gingerol decreased histone H3K27me3 levels, activated AKT pathway and inhibited the activation of ERK and NF-κB pathway at 3 days post-HIBI. Taken together, our data clearly indicate that 6-Gingerol plays a neuroprotective role against HIBI by epigenetic modification and regulation of AKT, ERK, and NF-κB pathways, inhibiting inflammatory responses and reducing cell death.
Proteomic Analysis Reveals the Protective Effects of Yiqi Fumai Lyophilized Injection on Chronic Heart Failure by Improving Myocardial Energy Metabolism
Authors: Han Xiaoying , Zhang Yi , Qiao Ou , Ji Haixia , Zhang Xinyu , Wang Wenzhe , Li Xia , Wang Juan , Li Dekun , Ju Aichun , Liu Changxiao , Gao Wenyuan
Published: September 2021

Yiqi Fumai lyophilized injection (YQFM) is the recombination of Sheng mai san (SMS).YQFM has been applied clinically to efficaciously and safely treat chronic heart failure (CHF). However, the mechanism of YQFM is still not fully elucidated. The purpose of our study was to investigate the protective mechanism of YQFM against abdominal aortic coarctation (AAC) in rats by proteomic methods. After YQFM treatment, the cardiac function were obviously meliorated. One hundred and fifty-seven important differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified, including 109 in model rat compared with that in control rat (M:C) and 48 in YQFM-treated rat compared with that in model rat (T:M) by iTRAQ technology to analyze the proteomic characteristics of heart tissue. Bioinformatics analysis showed that DEPs was mainly involved in the body’s energy metabolism and was closely related to oxidative phosphorylation. YQFM had also displayed efficient mitochondrial dysfunction alleviation properties in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced cardiomyocyte damage by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Metabolic assay, and Mitotracker staining. What’s more, the levels of total cardiomyocyte apoptosis were markedly reduced following YQFM treatment. Furthermore, Western blot analysis showed that the expressions of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor co-activator-1α(PGC-1α) (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001), perixisome proliferation-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) (p < 0.001)and retinoid X receptor alpha (RXR-α) were upregulated (p < 0.001), PGC-1α as well as its downstream effectors were also found to be upregulated in cardiomyocytes after YQFM treatment(p < 0.001).These results provided evidence that YQFM could enhance mitochondrial function of cardiomyocytes to play a role in the treatment of CHF by regulating mitochondrial biogenesis-related proteins.
Neonatal Feeding Trajectories in Mothers With Bipolar Disorder Taking Lithium: Pharmacokinetic Data
Authors: Imaz Maria Luisa , Langohr Klaus , Torra Mercè , Soy Dolors , García-Esteve Luisa , Martin-Santos Rocio
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Women who take lithium during pregnancy and continue after delivery may choose to breastfeed, formula feed, or mix these options. The aim of the study was to evaluate the neonatal lithium serum concentrations based on these three feeding trajectories.

Methods: We followed 24 women with bipolar disorder treated with lithium monotherapy during late pregnancy and postpartum (8 per trajectory). Lithium serum concentrations were determined by an AVL 9180 electrolyte analyser with a 0.10 mEq/L detection limit and a 0.20 mEq/L limit of quantification (LoQ).

Results: There was complete lithium placental passage at delivery, with a mean ratio of lithium concentration in the umbilical cord to maternal serum of 1.12 ± 0.17. The median times to LoQ were 6–8, 7–8, and 53–60 days for formula, mixed, and exclusive breastfeeding respectively. The generalized log-rank testing indicated that the median times to LoQ differ according to feeding trajectory (p = 0.037). According to the multivariate analysis-adjusted lithium serum concentrations at birth, times to LoQ are, on average, longer under exclusive breastfeeding (formula, p = 0.015; mixed, p = 0.012). No lithium accumulation was observed in infants under either exclusive or mixed breastfeeding. During the lactation follow-up, there was no acute growth or developmental delays in any neonate or infant. Indeed, lithium concentrations in the three trajectories declined in all cases. However, the time needed to reach the LoQ was much longer for those breastfeeding exclusively.

Conclusions: In breastfeed infant no sustained accumulation of lithium and no adverse effects on development or growth were observed.
Physiological and Transcripts Analyses Reveal the Mechanism by Which Melatonin Alleviates Heat Stress in Chrysanthemum Seedlings
Authors: Xing Xiaojuan , Ding Yurong , Jin Jinyu , Song Aiping , Chen Sumei , Chen Fadi , Fang Weimin , Jiang Jiafu
Published: September 2021

Heat stress limits the growth and development of chrysanthemum seedlings. Although melatonin (MT) has been linked to the heat stress response in plants, research on the underlying molecular mechanisms is scarce. In this study, the regulatory networks of MT on heat stress in chrysanthemum seedlings were explored. Physiological measurements suggested that MT not only reduced malondialdehyde accumulation, hydrogen peroxide content, and superoxide anion free radical generation rate, but also significantly promoted osmotic regulation substance synthesis (proline and soluble protein), antioxidant accumulation (GSH and AsA), and the antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, POD, CAT, and APX) in chrysanthemum leaves under heat stress. Furthermore, MT increased the fresh weight, dry weight, chlorophyll content, photosynthesis rate, and gas exchange indexes. Further, RNA-seq results revealed 33,497 and 36,740 differentially expressed genes in the S/Con and SMT/ConMT comparisons, respectively. The differences in the comparisons revealed that MT regulated heat shock transcription factors (HSFs) and heat shock proteins (HSPs), and the genes involved in Ca2+ signal transduction (CNGCs and CAM/CMLs), starch and sucrose metabolism (EDGL, BGLU, SuS, and SPS), hormone (PP2Cs, AUX/IAAs, EBFs, and MYC2), chlorophyll metabolism (HEMA and PORA), flavonoid biosynthesis (CHS, DFR, and FNS), and carotenoid biosynthesis (DXPS, GGDP, and PSY). MT effectively improved chrysanthemum seedling heat-resistance. Our study, thus, provides novel evidence of a gene network regulated by MT under heat stress.
Metabolic and Transcriptomic Profiling of Lilium Leaves Infected With Botrytis elliptica Reveals Different Stages of Plant Defense Mechanisms
Authors: Chai Nan , Xu Jie , Zuo Rumeng , Sun Zhengqiong , Cheng Yulin , Sui Shunzhao , Li Mingyang , Liu Daofeng
Published: September 2021

Botrytis elliptica, the causal agent of gray mold disease, poses a major threat to commercial Lilium production, limiting its ornamental value and yield. The molecular and metabolic regulation mechanisms of Lilium's defense response to B. elliptica infection have not been completely elucidated. Here, we performed transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of B. elliptica resistant Lilium oriental hybrid “Sorbonne” to understand the molecular basis of gray mold disease resistance in gray mold disease. A total of 115 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were detected by comparing the different temporal stages of pathogen infection. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and DAMs were enriched in the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid pathways at all stages of infection, demonstrating the prominence of these pathways in the defense response of “Sorbonne” to B. elliptica. Network analysis revealed high interconnectivity of the induced defense response. Furthermore, time-course analysis of the transcriptome and a weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) led to the identification of a number of hub genes at different stages, revealing that jasmonic acid (JA), salicylic acid (SA), brassinolide (BR), and calcium ions (Ca2+) play a crucial role in the response of “Sorbonne” to fungal infection. Our work provides a comprehensive perspective on the defense response of Lilium to B. elliptica infection, along with a potential transcriptional regulatory network underlying the defense response, thereby offering gene candidates for resistance breeding and metabolic engineering of Lilium.
A Study on Flipped Learning Concerning Learning Motivation and Learning Attitude in Language Learning
Authors: Chou Chi-Pu , Chen Kuo-Wei , Hung Chia-Jen
Published: September 2021

From the popularity of flipped teaching in United States primary and high schools, it is thought that students have more learning control to adjust to the learning progress and are assisted in problem solving and learning guidance during class period. It is believed that flipped teaching could prompt underachieving learners’ active learning and thereby enhance learning effectiveness. A total of 386 high school students in Chungli, Taiwan, were part of an experimental study and the research results are summarized below: (1) Students who participated in the flipped teaching models demonstrated better comprehension levels with the teaching content due to this change in learning style and attitude, which in turn, enhanced learning effectiveness. (2) To eliminate poor language performance of underachieving students, it is necessary to lay solid foundations to gradually enhance language learning effectiveness regarding this particular group of students. Films suitable for students’ individual ability could be combined with new language learned in the unit to genuinely assist underachieving learners’ language learning effectiveness. (3) For students who care about their performance, a “system of play” style grouping should be determined in order to enable the tracking of group performance and term performance. According to the results, further developments regarding active learning ability, boosts in learning interests, enhanced learning effectiveness, and the prompting of creativity resulting in a shift from passive learner to active learner have been proposed.
Transcriptomics Analysis Reveals Shared Pathways in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and Brain Tissues of Patients With Schizophrenia
Authors: Song Xuemian , Liu Yiyun , Pu Juncai , Gui Siwen , Zhong Xiaogang , Chen Xiaopeng , Chen Weiyi , Chen Xiang , Chen Yue , Wang Haiyang , Cheng Ke , Zhao Libo , Xie Peng
Published: September 2021

Background: Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder with complicated biological mechanisms. Few studies explore the transcriptional features that are shared in brain tissue and peripheral blood. In the present study, we aimed to explore the biological pathways with similar expression patterns in both peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and brain tissues.

Methods: The present study used transcriptomics technology to detect mRNA expression of PBMCs of 10 drug-naïve patients with schizophrenia and 20 healthy controls. Transcriptome data sets of brain tissue of patients with schizophrenia downloaded from public databases were also analyzed in our study. The biological pathways with similar expression patterns in the PBMCs and brain tissues were uncovered by differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and pathway analysis. Finally, the expression levels of differential expressed genes (DEGs) were validated by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in another 12 drug-naïve patients with schizophrenia and 12 healthy controls.

Results: We identified 542 DEGs, 51 DEGs, 732 DEGs, and 104 DEGs in PBMCs, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate gyrus, and nucleus accumbent, respectively. Five DEG clusters were recognized as having similar gene expression patterns in PBMCs and brain tissues by WGCNA. The pathway analysis illustrates that these DEG clusters are mainly enriched in several biological pathways that are related to phospholipid metabolism, ribosome signal transduction, and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. The differential significance of PLAAT3, PLAAT4, PLD2, RPS29, RPL30, COX7C, COX7A2, NDUFAF2, and ATP5ME were confirmed by qPCR.

Conclusions: This study finds that the pathways associated with phospholipid metabolism, ribosome signal transduction, and energy metabolism have similar expression patterns in PBMCs and brain tissues of patients with schizophrenia. Our results supply a novel insight for revealing the pathogenesis of schizophrenia and might offer a new approach to explore potential biological markers of peripheral blood in schizophrenia.
The Prevalence of Depressive and Insomnia Symptoms, and Their Association With Quality of Life Among Older Adults in Rural Areas in China
Authors: Yang Juan-Juan , Cai Hong , Xia Lei , Nie Weicheng , Zhang Yulong , Wang Song , Shi Yudong , Ng Chee H. , Liu Huanzhong , Xiang Yu-Tao
Published: September 2021

Background:There are few studies on the epidemiology of depression, insomnia, and their association with quality of life (QOL) in older adults living in rural China. This study examined the prevalence of depressive and insomnia symptoms, and their association with QOL in community-dwelling older adults in a rural area in Anhui province, China.

Methods:This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the rural areas of four cities (Hefei, Huaibei, Anqing, and Xuancheng) in Anhui province between July and October, 2019 using random sampling method. All community-dwelling residents from the selected villages who met the study entry criteria were invited to participate in this study. Depressive and insomnia symptoms and QOL were assessed with the Chinese version of self-reported Center for Epidemiological Survey Depression Scale (CES-D), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and the 26-item World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief version (WHOQOL-BREF), respectively.

Results:A total of 871 older adults were included. The prevalence of overall depressive symptoms, insomnia symptoms, and comorbid depressive and insomnia symptoms were 34.0% [95% confidence intervals (95% CI): 30.8–37.1%], 45.7% (95% CI: 42.4–49.0%) and 20.3% (95% CI: 17.6–23.0%), respectively. Older adults with depressive symptoms, insomnia symptoms, and comorbid depressive and insomnia symptoms had lower scores in QOL compared to those without. Depressive symptoms were positively associated with living with families [Odd Ratio (OR) = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.31–2.54] and negatively associated with current drinking (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.33–0.72). Insomnia symptoms were negatively associated with fair and good financial status (fair: OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.38–0.75; good: OR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.14–0.64) and current drinking (OR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.45–0.93), and positively associated with more frequent major medical conditions (OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.16–1.51). Comorbid depressive and insomnia symptoms were positively associated with living with families (OR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.36–3.00), and negatively associated with fair and good financial status (fair: OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.41–0.89; good: OR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.12–0.95) and current drinking (OR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.35–0.92).

Conclusion:Depressive and insomnia symptoms were common in older adults living in rural areas in China. Considering the negative health outcomes caused by depressive and insomnia symptoms, regular screening and effective treatments should be developed for this population.
Case Report: Whole-Exome Sequencing of Hypothalamic Hamartoma From an Infant With Pallister-Hall Syndrome Revealed Novel de novo Mutation in the GLI3
Authors: Yang Yue , Shen Fang , Jing Xie-Pan , Zhang Nu , Xu Shang-Yu , Li Dan-Dong , Zhou Ling-Li , Bai Guang-Hui , Fang Huang-Yi , Zhang Zhong-Ding , Pang Chen , Lin Jian , Sheng Han-Song
Published: September 2021

Background:GLI-Kruppel family member 3 (GLI3), a zinc finger transcription factor of the sonic hedgehog pathway, is essential for organ development. Mutations inGLI3cause several congenital conditions, including Pallister-Hall syndrome (PHS), which is characterized by polydactyly and hypothalamic hamartoma. Most patients are diagnosed soon after birth, and surgical removal of hypothalamic hamartoma in the very young is rarely performed because of associated risks.

Case presentation:A 7-month-old boy with PHS features, including a suprasellar lesion, bifid epiglottis, tracheal diverticulum, laryngomalacia, left-handed polydactyly and syndactyly, and omental hernia was referred to our service. His suprasellar lesion was partially removed, and whole-exome sequencing was applied to the resected tumor, his peripheral blood, and blood from his parents. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of hypothalamic hamartoma, and molecular profiling revealed a likely pathogenicde novovariant, c.2331C>G (p. H777Q), inGLI3. Magnetic resonance imaging follow-up 1 year later showed some residual tumor, and the patient experienced normal development post operation.

Conclusions:We presented a case of PHS that carries a novelGLI3variant. Hypothalamic hamartoma showed a distinct genetic landscape from germline DNA. These data offer insights into the underlying etiology of hypothalamic hamartoma development in patients with PHS.
Case Report: Complex Congenital Brain Anomaly in a BBxHF Calf–Clinical Signs, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Pathological Findings
Authors: Veenema Neeltje J. , Santifort Koen M. , Kuijpers Nienke W. , Seijger Anne , Hut Peter R.
Published: September 2021

This case report describes the clinical signs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and associated (histo)pathological findings in a crossbred Belgian Blue calf with congenital complex brain anomaly. The calf was presented with non-progressive signs (including cerebellar ataxia) since it was born, suggestive of a multifocal intracranial lesion. A congenital anomaly was suspected and after hematology, biochemistry, serology, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, a magnetic resonance imaging study was performed. The following suspected abnormalities were the principal changes identified: severe hydrocephalus, porencephaly, suspected partial corpus callosum agenesis (CCA), and increased fluid signal between the folia of the cerebellum. Post-mortem examination predominately reflected the MRI findings. The origin for these malformations could not be identified and there was no evidence of a causative infectious agent. Corpus callosum abnormalities have been reported in bovids before and have been linked to bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infections, as have several other central nervous system anomalies in this species. In this case, BVDV was deemed an unlikely causative agent based on serology test results and lack of typical histopathological signs. The etiology of the congenital anomaly present in this bovine calf remains unknown.
Dietary Energy Levels Affect Carbohydrate Metabolism-Related Bacteria and Improve Meat Quality in the Longissimus Thoracis Muscle of Yak (Bos grunniens)
Authors: Du Mei , Yang Chao , Liang Zeyi , Zhang Jianbo , Yang Yayuan , Ahmad Anum Ali , Yan Ping , Ding Xuezhi
Published: September 2021

The effects of different dietary energy levels on the ruminal bacterial population, selected meat quality indices, and their relationship in yak longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle were assessed in this study. A total of 15 castrated yaks were randomly assigned to three groups with low- (NEg: 5.5 MJ/Kg, LE), medium- (NEg: 6.2 MJ/Kg, ME), and high- (NEg: 6.9 MJ/Kg, HE) dietary energy levels and occurred in the cold season (March to May). All yaks from each treatment group were humanely slaughtered and sampled on the day of completion of their feeding treatment. The results showed that the water content and crude fat levels of the LT muscle were markedly elevated in the HE group (P < 0.05), while the shear force was drastically reduced (P = 0.001). Methionine, aspartic acid, and glycine levels in the LT muscle were higher in the LE group compared with the ME and HE groups (P < 0.05). The glutamic acid level in the ME group was greater in comparison to the LE and HE groups (P < 0.05), while the histidine level in the ME group was higher than that in the HE group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the HE diet significantly elevated (P < 0.05) the abundance of carbohydrate metabolism-associated bacteria including Prevotella_1, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, U29_B03, Ruminiclostridium_6, and Ruminococcaceae_UCG_013 in the rumen. The results of the Spearman's rank correlation analysis showed that the abundance of uncultured_bacterium_f_vadinBE97 and uncultured_bacterium_f_Lachnospiraceae showed a significant influence on the indicator of IMF and SF. In conclusion, a high dietary energy level improved the meat quality in the LT muscle of yak mainly by increasing the relative abundance of ruminal amylolytic bacteria to provide substrates for fatty acid synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics of Pantoprazole and Pantoprazole Sulfone in Goats After Intravenous Administration: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Smith Joe S. , Mochel Jonathan P. , Soto-Gonzalez Windy M. , Rahn Rebecca R. , Fayne Bryanna N. , Escher Olivia G. , Geletka Anastasia M. , Harvill Lainey E. , Bergman Joan B. , Cox Sherry
Published: September 2021

Background: Ruminant species are at risk of developing abomasal ulceration, but there is a lack of pharmacokinetic data for anti-ulcer therapies, such as the proton pump inhibitor pantoprazole, in goats.

Objective: The primary study objective was to estimate the plasma pharmacokinetic parameters for pantoprazole in adult goats after intravenous administration. A secondary objective was to describe the pharmacokinetic parameters for the metabolite, pantoprazole sulfone, in goats.

Methods: Pantoprazole was administered intravenously to six adult goats at a dose of 1 mg/kg. Plasma samples were collected over 36h and analyzed via reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography for determination of pantoprazole and pantoprazole sulfone concentrations. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined by non-compartmental analysis.

Results: Plasma clearance, elimination half-life, and volume of distribution of pantoprazole were estimated at 0.345 mL/kg/min, 0.7 h, and 0.9 L/kg, respectively following IV administration. The maximum concentration, elimination half-life and area under the curve of pantoprazole sulfone were estimated at 0.1 μg/mL, 0.8 h, and 0.2 hr*μg/mL, respectively. The global extraction ratio was estimated 0.00795 ± 0.00138. All animals had normal physical examinations after conclusion of the study.

Conclusion: The reported plasma clearance for pantoprazole is lower than reported for foals, calves, and alpacas. The elimination half-life appears to be < that reported for foals and calves. Future pharmacodynamic studies are necessary for determination of the efficacy of pantoprazole on acid suppression in goats.
Dynamical Recovery of Complex Networks under a Localised Attack
Authors: Wang Fan , Dong Gaogao , Tian Lixin
Published: September 2021

In real systems, some damaged nodes can spontaneously become active again when recovered from themselves or their active neighbours. However, the spontaneous dynamical recovery of complex networks that suffer a local failure has not yet been taken into consideration. To model this recovery process, we develop a framework to study the resilience behaviours of the network under a localised attack (LA). Since the nodes’ state within the network affects the subsequent dynamic evolution, we study the dynamic behaviours of local failure propagation and node recoveries based on this memory characteristic. It can be found that the fraction of active nodes switches back and forth between high network activity and low network activity, which leads to the spontaneous emergence of phase-flipping phenomena. These behaviours can be found in a random regular network, Erdős-Rényi network and Scale-free network, which shows that these three types of networks have the same or different resilience behaviours under an LA and random attack. These results will be helpful for studying the spontaneous recovery real systems under an LA. Our work provides insight into understanding the recovery process and a protection strategy of various complex systems from the perspective of damaged memory.
Estimating Soil Properties and Nutrients by Visible and Infrared Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy to Characterize Vineyards
Authors: Rodríguez-Pérez José Ramón , Marcelo Víctor , Pereira-Obaya Dimas , García-Fernández Marta , Sanz-Ablanedo Enoc
Published: September 2021

Visible, near, and shortwave infrared (VIS-NIR-SWIR) reflectance spectroscopy, a cost-effective and rapid means of characterizing soils, was used to predict soil sample properties for four vineyards (central and north-western Spain). Sieved and air-dried samples were measured using a portable spectroradiometer (350–2500 nm) and compared for pistol grip (PG) versus contact probe (CP) setups. Raw data processed using standard normal variate (SVN) and detrending transformation (DT) were grouped into four subsets (VIS: 350–700 nm; NIR: 701–1000 nm; SWIR: 1001–2500 nm; and full range: 350–2500 nm) in order to identify the most suitable range for determining soil characteristics. The performance of partial least squares regression (PLSR) models in predicting soil properties from reflectance spectra was evaluated by cross-validation. The four spectral subsets and transformed reflectances for each setup were used as PLSR predictor variables. The best performing PLSR models were obtained for pH, electrical conductivity, and phosphorous (R2 values above 0.92), while models for sand, nitrogen, and potassium showed moderately good performances (R2 values between 0.69 and 0.77). The SWIR subset and SVN + DT processing yielded the best PLSR models for both the PG and CP setups. VIS-NIR-SWIR reflectance spectroscopy shows promise as a technique for characterizing vineyard soils for precision viticulture purposes. Further studies will be carried out to corroborate our findings.
A Research Method for Semi-Automated Large-Scale Cultivation of Maize to Full Maturity in an Artificial Environment
Authors: Wiethorn Matthew , Penn Chad , Camberato James
Published: September 2021

There are unique advantages and disadvantages to using the field, greenhouse, growth chamber, and media-less techniques for growing maize (Zea mays L.) for research purposes. Soil-buffered nutrients such as phosphorus (P) do not allow for precise control of solution concentrations in the field, while greenhouses, growth chambers, and hydroponics provide limiting conditions. The objectives of this study were to develop a practical technique for productively cultivating several maize plants from seed to physiological maturity (R6) in a grow room environment, with precise control of nutrient availability and timing, and evaluate its utility for the purpose of measuring plant responses to variations in nutrient concentrations. The construction and testing of a semi-automated grow room for conducting nutrient studies on 96 maize plants utilizing simulated or artificial conditions are described. Plant growth response to a range of solution phosphorus (P) concentrations was tested to evaluate the utility of the technique. Maize yield components were measured and compared to values for field-grown plants. Due to ideal conditions and successful simulation of light intensity, diurnal fluctuations in temperature and RH, and changing photoperiod, grain yield and tissue nutrient concentrations were comparable to field-grown maize, although with greater shoot biomass. Plants responded positively to increased P concentrations in fertigation. The technique can be used for large-scale plant nutrient studies that require precise control of bioavailability and timing as well as manipulation of light intensity and photoperiod duration.
Cryoprotective Effects of Ergothioneine and Isoespintanol on Canine Semen
Authors: Usuga Alexandra , Tejera Irene , Gómez Jorge , Restrepo Oliver , Rojano Benjamín , Restrepo Giovanni
Published: September 2021

Sperm undergo oxidative stress due to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during cryopreservation. Some unconventional natural antioxidants can reduce ROS-induced changes in cryopreserved canine sperm. This study aimed to identify the cryoprotective effects of ergothioneine and isoespintanol on the quality of thawed canine semen. Twelve ejaculates from six dogs were cryopreserved in a tris-yolk extender without (control) or with 50 (E50), 100 (E100), or 150 (E150) µM ergothioneine or 20 (I20), 40 (I40), or 60 (I60) µM isoespintanol. We evaluated the motility and kinetics of thawed sperm using computerized analysis; determined morphology by eosin-nigrosin staining; functional membrane integrity using hypoosmotic tests, and structural membrane and acrosome integrity; mitochondrial membrane potential by fluorescence microscopy; and ROS production by spectrophotometry. Data were statistically analyzed using mixed models and Tukey tests. E100 increased total (60.6% vs. 49.6%) and progressive (26.4% vs. 20.1%) motility, straight line velocity (41.3 vs. 35.9 µm/s), and rapid sperm (17.6% vs. 12.3%) compared with controls. However, E150 reduced the numbers of hyperactive sperm. E100, I40, and I60 reduced the abnormal morphology and ROS production, and all concentrations of both antioxidants increased acrosomal integrity. We concluded that ergothioneine and isoespintanol reduce deleterious sperm alterations and oxidative stress in thawed canine semen.
The Pattern of Blood–Milk Exchange for Antiparasitic Drugs in Dairy Ruminants
Authors: Imperiale Fernanda , Lanusse Carlos
Published: September 2021

The prolonged persistence of milk residual concentration of different antiparasitic drugs in lactating dairy animals should be considered before recommending their use (label or extra-label) for parasite control in dairy animals. The partition blood-to-milk ratio for different antiparasitic compounds depends on their ability to diffuse across the mammary gland epithelium. The high lipophilicity of some of the most widely used antiparasitic drugs explains their high partition into milk and the extended persistence of high residual concentrations in milk after treatment. Most of the antiparasitic drug compounds studied were shown to be stable in various milk-related industrial processes. Thus, the levels of residues detected in raw milk can be directly applicable to estimating consumer exposure and dietary intake calculations when consuming heat-processed fluid milk. However, after milk is processed to obtain milk products such as cheese, yogurt, ricotta, and butter, the residues of lipophilic antiparasitic drugs are higher than those measured in the milk used for their elaboration. This review article contributes pharmacokinetics-based information, which is useful to understand the relevance of rational drug-based parasite control in lactating dairy ruminants to avoid undesirable consequences of residual drug concentrations in milk and derived products intended for human consumption.
Postpartum Uterine Involution in Martina Franca Jennies
Authors: De Amicis Ippolito , Fusi Jasmine , Marruchella Giuseppe , Zedda Maria T. , Mazzatenta Andrea , Robbe Domenico , Carluccio Augusto
Published: September 2021

This study investigated the postpartum (PP) uterine involution in nine multiparous Martina Franca jennies with at term, normal, and singleton foaling. Transrectal ultrasonography performed at Days 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 showed that the uterine tip diameters did not differ between the post-pregnant (PPH) and non-post-pregnant uterine horns (NPPH), whereas the diameter of the middle PPH was larger than the NPPH until Day 7 (p < 0.05). The diameter of the corpora-cornual junction resulted larger in the PPH than NPPH at Day 7 (p < 0.05). At Day 3, the microcaruncolae were not detected. Endometrial glands (GL) number increased, with the highest value on Day 28. Endometrial GL area and perimeter decreased (p < 0.001) from Day 1 to Day 28. Epithelial thickness increased from Days 1–3 to Day 7 (p < 0.001), and concurrently with the foal heat to Day 14 (p < 0.001), with a decrease at Days 21–28. A marked neutrophils reduction on Day 7 and eosinophil increase from the first three days to Days 7–14 was observed. The results suggest that, in Martina Franca jennies with normal foaling, the PP uterine involution can be considered complete on Day 14.
Detecting Ankle Fractures in Plain Radiographs Using Deep Learning with Accurately Labeled Datasets Aided by Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Kim Ji-Hun , Mo Yong-Cheol , Choi Seung-Myung , Hyun Youk , Lee Jung Woo
Published: September 2021

Ankle fractures are common and, compared to other injuries, tend to be overlooked in the emergency department. We aim to develop a deep learning algorithm that can detect not only definite fractures but also obscure fractures. We collected the data of 1226 patients with suspected ankle fractures and performed both X-rays and CT scans. With anteroposterior (AP) and lateral ankle X-rays of 1040 patients with fractures and 186 normal patients, we developed a deep learning model. The training, validation, and test datasets were split in a 3/1/1 ratio. Data augmentation and under-sampling techniques were administered as part of the preprocessing. The Inception V3 model was utilized for the image classification. Performance of the model was validated using a confusion matrix and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC). For the AP and lateral trials, the best accuracy and AUC values were 83%/0.91 in AP and 90%/0.95 in lateral. Additionally, the mean accuracy and AUC values were 83%/0.89 for the AP trials and 83%/0.9 for the lateral trials. The reliable dataset resulted in the CNN model providing higher accuracy than in past studies.
Ozone Effects on Douro Vineyards under Climate Change
Authors: Ascenso Ana , Gama Carla , Silveira Carlos , Viceto Carolina , Rocha Alfredo , Lopes Myriam , Miranda Ana Isabel
Published: September 2021

Tropospheric ozone (O3) levels in southern Europe have an increasing tendency, in close relation with the higher incidence of hot summers and heatwaves. Given that O3 is one of the most damaging pollutants for vegetation, known to affect productivity and quality of crops, it is necessary to develop more rigorous and consistent methods of risk assessment that consider climate change conditions. Studying the O3 deposition over the Douro Demarcated Region (DDR), which is one of the most productive wine areas in Portugal, and assessing its potential effects under a climate change scenario, was the purpose of this study. To that end, the chemical transport model CHIMERE, with a spatial resolution of 1 km2, fed by meteorological data from the WRF model, was applied for a recent past climate (2003 to 2005) and future mid-term (2049 and 2064) and long-term (2096 and 2097) scenarios. Simulations for future climate were performed considering: (i) only the climate change effect, and (ii) the effect of climate change together with future air pollutant emissions. The assessment of the potential damage in terms of wine productivity and quality (sugar content) was performed through analysis of O3 deposition and the application of concentration–response functions, based on AOT40 values. Modeling results show that a reduction in emission of O3 precursors can successfully decrease AOT40 levels in the DDR, but it is not enough to accomplish the European Commission target value for the protection of vegetation. If the emissions remain constant, the exposure–response functions indicate that, in the long-term, AOT40 levels could worsen wine productivity and quality.