bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estudio de la diferenciación prenatal del útero de la alpaca (Vicugna pacos) entre el primer y segundo tercio de gestación
Authors: Ferradas Cusi , Mendoza Galy , Llerena Cielo , Barbeito Claudio , Castro Alejandra , Ghezzi Marcelo
Published: April 2020

En la alpaca adulta y en fetos de tercer tercio de gestación, el cuerno uterino izquierdo es más grande que el derecho, además de que presenta ventaja en cuanto a la irrigación. El presente trabajo buscó identificar el momento de diferenciación del tamaño de los cuernos uterinos y los factores anatómicos que influencian esta diferencia, basándose en las relaciones topográficas de éstos con los órganos vecinos y en las características vasculares. Con tal fin, se trabajaron muestras de fetos hembras de diferentes tamaños obtenidos en el Camal Municipal de la Ciudad de Huancavelica, Perú. Los resultados del estudio topográfico indicaron la influencia del desarrollo del estómago y del bazo sobre la forma y la posición del útero, así como la influencia de la flexura del colon sigmoideo sobre el menor tamaño del cuerno uterino derecho. Además, se encontró diferencia significativa entre las medidas del ancho de ambos conductos paramesonéfricos durante el primer tercio de gestación, y entre las medidas del largo y el ancho de los cuernos uterinos en fetos al inicio del segundo tercio gestacional. Macroscópicamente, se observó un patrón vascular similar al de úteros de tercer tercio de gestación y de animales adultos, encontrando una rama comunicante entre las arterias uterinas. Se concluye que la diferenciación del tamaño de los cuernos uterinos es evidente en el inicio del segundo tercio gestacional y que esta condición está influenciada por la posición y el tamaño de las vísceras abdominales, lo que permite un mayor desarrollo del cuerno uterino izquierdo.
Aspectos epidemiológicos de casos de loxoscelismo registrados en Direcciones de Salud y Direcciones Regionales de Salud de Perú. Periodo 2009-2018
Authors: Vega Alejandra , León Daphne , Cabanillas Oswaldo , Falcón Néstor
Published: April 2020

El objetivo del estudio fue describir el comportamiento espacial y temporal de los casos de loxoscelismo registrados en la sala virtual de situación de salud del Centro Nacional de Epidemiología, Prevención y Control de Enfermedades (CDC-Perú) en el periodo 2009 – 2018. Se recolectó información correspondiente a las variables grupo etáreo, sexo, año y región geográfica en el que se reportaron las mordeduras. Con la información recopilada se creó una base de datos en Microsoft Excel la que fue resumida mediante estadística descriptiva (frecuencias absolutas y relativas). Se observó una tendencia creciente en el reporte de accidentes loxoscélicos, alcanzando el máximo número en el año 2016. El grupo etario más afectado fue el de 30 a 59 años (4 108 casos) seguido del de 18 a 29 años (2 014 casos).. En general, las mujeres fueron las más afectadas (5 265 casos), pero en la población infantil, los casos se reportaron con mayor frecuencia en los varones. Lima fue la región con mayor número de reportes (2 958 casos), no obstante, la región con mayor tasa de presentación fue Arequipa con 150,9 casos por cada 100 000 habitantes. El estudio mostró que en regiones y temporadas de mayor temperatura los casos de loxoscelismo aumentaban. Además, se observó que los accidentes loxoscélicos pueden ocurrir a cualquier edad por diversos factores de exposición, por lo que sería importante implementar campañas de prevención orientadas a disminuir el riesgo de exposición en las diferentes etapas de la vida de las personas.
Standardization of Specific and Non-Specific Parameters of Propolis Extract as Raw Material for Herbal Product
Authors: Syukri Yandi , Purwati Ririk , Hazami Nadia , Anshory Tahmid Hady , Fitria Annisa
Published: April 2020

This study aims to standardize the specific and non-specific parameters of propolis extract originating from East Java, Indonesia, to fulfil the requirements as a herbal raw material. Standardization was carried out on propolis ethanol extract taken at three different harvesting times. Standardization was carried out on specific parameters including the content of dissolved compounds, chemical content of extracts and chromatogram patterns, while the non-specific parameters of the extract included water content, ash content residue, density, microbial contamination, and heavy metal contamination. Specific extract parameters showed that the water-soluble extract content was 2.1-3.5%; levels of ethanol-soluble extract 62.00-84.00%; total flavonoid levels of 0.015-0.072 mg ER / g; and total phenol content of 0.0039-0.0053 mg ER / g. Non-specific parameters indicate that the water content is 10.72-10.90%; drying losses 10.05-10.63%; total ash content of 0.08-0.65%, density of 0.88-0.89 g / mL; Pb levels from 6.55-9.01 mg / kg; Cd content of 0.50-1.22 mg / kg, Cu content of 0.82-1.13 mg / kg; the total plate number is 10 colonies / g and the yeast fungus number is 10 colonies / g. It can be concluded that propolis extract from the East Java region of Indonesia fulfills the requirements as a raw material for herbal products in Indonesia.
Clustering Provinces in Indonesia based on Community Welfare Indicators
Authors: Dini Sekti Kartika , Fauzan Achmad
Published: April 2020

The Preamble of the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia explicitly states that the main task of the government of the Republic of Indonesia is to advance general prosperity, to develop the nation's intellectual life, and to realize social justice for all Indonesian people. Social inequality is a problem that is still faced by Indonesian people today. To solve the problem required supporting data analysis as a basis for policy formulation. This research was conducted with the aim of clustering provinces in Indonesia based on community welfare indicators using K-Means cluster analysis. K-Means cluster analysis is chosen based on the variance value (0.101), which is smaller than the variance value in the average linkage cluster analysis (0.152). Based on data analysis, provinces in Indonesia are clustered into three where the first cluster consists of 21 provinces, the second cluster consists of 3 provinces, and the third cluster consists of 10 provinces. Each cluster has different characteristics that can be of concern to the parties concerned to overcome the social welfare gap. Besides, in order cluster results are more easily understood, visualization of results is added with a Geographic Information System (GIS) using Indonesian maps accompanied by differences in color gradations for each cluster
Bioremediation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons Contaminated Soil using Bio piles System
Authors: Et al. Jabbar
Published: April 2020

This study was focused on biotreatment of soil which polluted by petroleum compounds (Diesel) which caused serious environmental problems. One of the most effective and promising ways to treat diesel-contaminated soil is bioremediation. It is a choice that offers the potential to destroy harmful pollutants using biological activity.

Four bacterial strains were isolated from diesel contaminated soil samples. The isolates were identified by the Vitek 2 system, as Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Pentoae species, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterobacter cloacae. The potential of biological surfactant production was tested using the Sigma 703D stand-alone tensiometer showed that these isolates are biological surfactant producers. The better results of the surface tension reduction test were obtained using the mixed bacterial culture which reduced the surface tension of the medium from 66mN/m to 33.89mN/m. For further evidence of the biodegradation effect of these isolates individually and as a mixed culture, which was supported by the use of Gas-Chromatography technology confirming the occurrence of biodegradation.

The capability of mixed bacterial culture was examined to remediate the diesel contaminated soil in bio piles system. Two pilot scale bio piles (25 kg soil each) were constructed containing soils contaminated with approximately 2140 mg/kg total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs). Both systems were equipped with oxygen to provide aerobic conditions, incubated at ambient temperature and weekly sampling within 35 days (during summer season). Overall 75.71 % of the total petroleum hydrocarbons were removed from the amended soil and 33.18 % of the control soil at the end of study period. The study concluded that the ex-situ bioremediation (bio piles) is a good option for treating the soil contaminated with diesel as economical and environmentally friendly.
Comparing Empathy in Medical Students of two Portuguese Medicine Schools
Authors: Santiago Luiz Miguel , Silva Inês Rosendo , Coutinho Mona Lisa , Maurício Kati , Neto Isabel , Simões José Augusto
Published: April 2020

Objectives To evaluate differences in empathy between the Integrated Master’s degree in Medicine (MIM) students from the Faculty of Medicine - University of Coimbra (FMUC) and the Faculty of Health Sciences - University of Beira Interior (FCS-UBI). Methodology Cross-sectional observational study with the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy – students’ Portuguese version (JSPE – spv) to 1st, 3rd and 6th year students of the 2017/2018 academic year with descriptive and inferential statistical analysis (p<0.05). Results Size representative sample of 795 students. Higher total empathy score (TES) (p=0.008) and "Perspective taking" (p=0.001) in FCS-UBI were found. JSPE-TES was higher in FCS-UBI, 3rd year (p=0.038). Higher FCS-UBI "Perspective taking" in the 1st year (p=0.030) and 6th year (p=0.044), for "Compassionate care" in the 3rd (p=0.019) and for "Standing in the patient’s shoes" in the 1st year (p=0.018) and in FMUC for "Compassionate care" in the 1st year (p=0.037) and the "Standing in the patient’s shoes" in the 3rd year (p=0.002) were found. Higher levels of empathy were found in FCS-UBI female students, for JSPE-TES (p=0.045) and "Perspective taking" (p=0.001).Conclusion Higher e mpathy levels in FCS-UBI were found, with different results in the third year suggesting influence of the medical course teaching characteristics.
Modulation of SIRT3 expression through CDK4/6 enhances the anti-cancer effect of sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Jo HanHee , Park Yusun , Kim Taehun , Kim Jisu , Lee JongSook , Kim Seon yoo , Chung Jee-in , Ko Hae yong , Pyun Jae-Chul , Kim Kyung Sik , Lee Misu , Yun Mijin
Published: April 2020

Background : Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The only drug currently approved for clinical use in the treatment of advanced HCC is sorafenib. However, many patients with HCC show reduced sensitivity to sorafenib during treatment. SIRT3, a member of the mammalian sirtuin family, is a tumor suppressor in certain tumor types. However, only few studies have investigated the effects of SIRT3 on tumor prognosis and sorafenib sensitivity in patients with HCC. Here, we aimed to investigate the correlation between SIRT3 expression and glucose metabolism and proliferation in HCC and discover effective compounds that increase endogenous SIRT3 modulation effect of sorafenib.
Methods: To determine the correlation between SIRT3 and glucose related proteins, immunostaining was performed with liver cancer tissue using various antibodies. To investigate whether the expression of SIRT3 in HCC is related to the resistance to sorafenib, we treated sorafenib after the modulation of SIRT3 levels in HCC cell lines (overexpression in Huh7, knockdown in HepG2). We also employed PD0332991 to modulate the SIRT3 expression in HCC cell and conducted functional assays.
Results: SIRT3 expression was downregulated in high glycolytic and proliferative HCC cells of human patients, xenograft model and HCC cell lines. Moreover, SIRT3 expression was downregulated after sorafenib treatment, resulting in reduced drug sensitivity in HCC cell lines. To enhance the anti-tumor effect of sorafenib, we employed PD0332991 (CDK4/6-Rb inhibitor) based on the correlation between SIRT3 and phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein in HCC. Notably, combined treatment with sorafenib and PD0332991 showed an enhancement of the anti-tumor effect in HCC cells.
Conclusions: Our data suggest that the modulation of SIRT3 by CDK4/6 inhibition might be useful for HCC therapy together with sorafenib, which, unfortunately, has limited efficacy and whose use is often associated with drug resistance.
The role of human papillomavirus genotyping for detecting high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia or cancer in HPV-positive women with normal cytology: a study from a hospital in northeastern China
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Deyu , Yang Zhuo , Wang Xiaobin , Wang Danbo
Published: April 2020

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is more sensitive than cytology for detecting cervical cancer and its precursors. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of high-risk HPV genotypes and evaluate the role of HPV genotyping triage for detecting high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, adenocarcinoma in situ and cervical cancer (HSIL+) in HPV-positive women with normal cytology.Methods: A retrospective study was performed in women who had undergone co-screening at the China Medical University-affiliated Shengjing Hospital between 2012 and 2014. Results: Of the 34,587 women, 2,665 HPV-positive women with normal cytology who had received colposcopy were eligible for analysis. In HSIL+ groups of 204 women, the common genotypes were HPV16, HPV52, HPV58, HPV33, HPV31 and HPV18 in order of prevalence. The proportion of histological HSIL+ in women infected with HPV33 or HPV31 was not significantly different compared to women infected with HPV16 (P= 0.30, P= 0.19, respectively). The odds ratios for histological HSIL+ were 3.26 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.41–4.40) in women with HPV16/18, 4.21 (95% CI: 2.99–5.93) in those with HPV16/18/31/33, and 5.73 (95% CI: 3.30–9.97) in those with HPV16/18/31/33/52/58. Including HPV31/33 genotyping together with HPV16/18 significantly increased the proportion of HSIL+ detection from 63.2% to 77.5% (P = 0.002) without significantly increasing the colposcopy per HSIL+ detection ratio (7.7 to 8.1, P = 0.66). Conclusion: HPV genotyping played an important role in managing HPV-positive women with normal cytology. Genotyping for HPV31/33 should be added to the previously recommended HPV16/18 genotyping in triaging HPV-positive women in northeastern China.
Identification of the Eutrema Salsugineum EsMYB90 gene important for anthocyanin biosynthesis
Authors: Qi Yuting , Gu Caihong , Wang Xingjun , Gao Shiqing , Li Changsheng , Zhao Chuanzhi , Li Chuanshun , Ma Changle , Zhang Quan
Published: April 2020

Background: Anthocyanins contribute to coloration and antioxidation effects in different plant tissues. MYB transcription factors have been demonstrated to be a key regulator for anthocyanin synthesis in many plants. However, little information was available about the MYB genes in the halophyte species Eutrema salsugineum.Result: Here we report the identification of an important anthocyanin biosynthesis regulator EsMYB90 from Eutrema salsugineum, which is a halophyte tolerant to multiple abiotic stresses. Our phylogenetic and localization analyses supported that EsMYB90 is an R2R3 type of MYB transcription factor. Ectopic expression of EsMYB90 in tobacco and Arabidopsis enhanced pigmentation and anthocyanin accumulation in various organs. The transcriptome analysis revealed that 42 genes upregulated by EsMYB90 in 35S:EsMYB90 tobacco transgenic plants are required for anthocyanin biosynthesis. Moreover, our qRT-PCR results showed that EsMYB90 promoted expression of early (PAL, CHS, and CHI) and late (DFR, ANS, and UFGT) anthocyanin biosynthesis genes in stems, leaves, and flowers of 35S:EsMYB90 tobacco transgenic plants.Conclusions: Our results indicated that EsMYB90 is a MYB transcription factor, which regulates anthocyanin biosynthesis genes to control anthocyanin biosynthesis. Our work provides a new tool to enhance anthocyanin production in various plants.
Autophagy suppression of trophoblast cells induces pregnancy loss by activating decidual NK cytotoxicity and inhibiting trophoblast invasion
Authors: Tan¹ Haixia , Yang¹ Shaoliang , Wang¹´⁴ Haiyan , Li¹´³´⁴ Mingqing
Published: April 2020

Background: The crosstalk between trophoblast cells and decidual NK cells plays an important role in the establishment and maintenance of normal pregnancy. Recent studies reported that autophagy can induce immune tolerance at the maternal fetal interface, while the mechanism remains unclear. Methods: Autophagy levels in the villi of normal and recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) patients were detected by transmission electron microscopy. After co-cultured with trophoblast cells pretreated with 3-MA or rapamycin, NK cells were collected and the expression of killer receptors was detected by flow cytometry (FCM). The invasiveness of trophoblasts was tested by Cell invasion assay. Results: Compared with elective pregnancy termination patients, the level of autophagy in the villi of RSA patients was significantly decreased. Inducing the autophagy level in trophoblast cells with rapamycin could significantly inhibit the cytotoxicity of NK cells in the co-culture system, and supplement of IGF-2 could rectify this effect. Meanwhile, autophagy suppression of trophoblasts reduced the level of Paternally Expressed Gene 10 (PEG10), leading to the impairment of trophoblast cell invasion. In addition, NK cells educated by autophagy-inhibited trophoblasts further decreased the proliferation and invasiveness of trophoblasts. In pregnant mice model, injection with 3-MA promoted the cytotoxicity of uterine NK cells, and increased the embryo absorption rate. Conclusion: Autophagy suppression of trophoblasts increase the cytotoxicity of NK cells and damage the trophoblasts invasion possibly by targeting IGF-2 and PEG10, respectively, which ultimately leads to miscarriage.
Procalcitonin and C-reactive Protein Perform Better Than Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Count Ratio on Evaluation of Hospital Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Zheng Nan , New Dongmei Zhu , HAN YI
Published: April 2020

Background: The relationship between biomarkers and hospital acquired pneumonia (HAP) is under studied, especially those severe cases admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Compared with community acquired pneumonia (CAP), HAP might have different traits regarding biomarkers due to the previous history in the hospitals. Methods: 593 adult patients were enrolled into this retrospective cohort study to determine neutrophil-lymphocyte count ratio (NLCR), procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum lactate level at the admission of ICU. According to the diagnosis, patients were divided into two groups: non-infection and HAP. Discriminant analysis was performed based on better outcomes of diagnostic performance and severity evaluation. The diagnostic performance of each individual biomarker was assessed by construction of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calculation of the area under each ROC curves (AUROC). Multivariable analysis was also applied to determine most appropriate prognostic factors. Results: NLCR, PCT and CRP between non-infection and HAP group showed remarkable differences. Because of discriminant ability of severe infection, the AUROC of NLCR (0.626; 95%CI 0.581-0.671) was not comparative with conventional markers such as CRP (0.685; 95% CI 0.641-0.730) and PCT (0.661; 95% CI 0.615-0.707). Besides, AUROC of composite biomarkers, especially the combination of NLCR, CRP and WBC, were significantly greater than the single biomarkers. Conclusions: NLCR was not comparable to conventional single biomarkers such as CRP and PCT regarding to diagnosis or severity evaluation of HAP. Composite biomarkers could prompt early diagnosis and severity evaluation with improved accessibility, especially the combination of NLCR, CRP and WBC.
Force Production during the Sustained Phase of Rugby Scrums: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Martin Eric , Beckham George
Published: April 2020

Background: Since World Rugby changed the laws regarding scrums in the 2013-2014 season, the sustained push phase of the scrum has increased in tactical importance. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic literature review was to examine the biomechanical demands during the sustained push phase of individual, unit, and full pack scrummaging. Methods: Pubmed, EBSCO (specifically and simultaneously searching Academic Search Premier, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus), and Google Scholar were searched for any research that presented force production in a live or simulated rugby scrum. Study quality was appraised using the National Institute of Health's Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. Recorded scrum forces, positioning of players including joint angles, and testing procedures were extracted and narratively synthesized. Results: Twenty six studies were included in the review. 50% of included studies were rated good, 31% fair, and 19% poor. Major limitations included not reporting any effect size, statistical power, or reliability. Reported group mean values for average sustained forces against a machine generally ranged from 1000-2000 N in individual scrums and 4000-8000 N for full packs of male rugby players older than high school age. Individuals seem to optimize their force generation when their shoulders are set against scrum machine pads at approximately 40% of body height, with feet parallel, and with knee and hip angles around 120°. A 10% difference in pack force seems to be necessary for one pack to drive another back in the scrum, but little data exist to quantify differences in force production between winning and losing packs during live scrums. Data collection within studies was not standardized, making comparisons difficult. There is a lack of data in live scrums, and the current research indicates that machine scrums may not replicate many of the demands of live scrums. There is a lack of data for female rugby players. Conclusions: This review indicates an optimal individual body position for players to strive to achieve during scrummaging, consisting of a low body height (40% of stature) and large extended hip and knee angles (120° each).
Experiences and views of different key stakeholders on the feasibility of treating cancer-related fatigue
Authors: Canella Claudia , Mikolasek Michael , Rostock Matthias , Guckenberger Matthias , Jenewein Josef , Linka Esther , Six Claudia , Stoll Sarah , Stupp Roger , Witt Claudia M.
Published: April 2020

Background : Although cancer-related fatigue (CRF) has gained increased attention in the past decade, therapy remains a challenge. Treatment programs are more likely to be effective if the needs and interests of the persons involved are well represented. This can be achieved by stakeholder engagement.

In this paper, different key stakeholders' experiences and views on the feasibility of treating CRF in the context of supportive care in hospital environments are analyzed.
Method: In a qualitative study with the aim of developing an integrative treatment program for CRF, a total of 22 stakeholders (6 medical oncologists, 5 nurses, 9 patients, 1 patient family member, 1 representative of the Swiss Cancer League) were interviewed either in a face-to-face (n=12) or focus group setting (n=2). For data analyses, the method of qualitative content analysis was used.
Results: The stakeholders referred to different contextual factors when talking about the feasibility of treating CRF in the context of supportive care in hospital environments. These included assessment, reporting and information; treatability; attitude; infrastructure, time-management, costs and affordability; and integrative approach.
Conclusions : Key factors of a feasible treatment approach to CRF are a coherent, cost effective integrative treatment program facilitated by an interdisciplinary team of health care providers. Furthermore, the treatment approach should be patient orientated, adopting an individualized approach. The major challenges of making the integrative treatment program feasible for CRF are resources and interprofessional collaboration.
Recombinant PAL/PilE/FlaA DNA vaccine provides protective immunity against Legionella pneumophila in BALB/c mice
Authors: Chen Yingying , Yang Zehui , Dong Ying , Chen Yu
Published: April 2020

Background Legionella pneumophila ( L.pneumophila ), a Gram-negative small microorganism, causes hospital-acquired pneumonia especially in immunocompromised patients. Vaccination may be an effective method for preventing L.pneumophila infection. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a better vaccine against this disease. In this study, we developed a recombinant peptidoglycan-associated lipoprotein (PAL)/type IV pilin (PilE)/lagellin (FlaA) DNA vaccine and evaluated its immunogenicity and efficacy to protect against L.pneumophila infection. Results According to the results, the expression of PAL, PilE, FlaA proteins and PAL/PilE/FlaA fusion protein in 293 cells was confirmed. Immunization with PAL/PilE/FlaA DNA vaccine resulted in highest IgG titer (Table 1) and strongest cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) response (Table 2). Furthermore, the histopathological changes in lung tissues of mice challenged with a lethal dose of L.pneumophila were alleviated by PAL/PilE/FlaA DNA vaccine immunization. The production of T-helper-1 (Th1) cytokines (IFNγ, TGF-α, and IL-12), and Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10) were promoted in PAL/PilE/FlaA DNA vaccine group (Table 3&4). Finally, immunization with PAL/PilE/FlaA vaccine raised the survival rate of mice to 100% after challenging with a lethal dose of L.pneumophila for 10 consecutive days. Conclusions Our study suggests that the newly developed PAL/PilE/FlaA DNA vaccine stimulates strong humoral and cellular immune responses and may be a potential intervention on L.pneumophila infection.
Diagnostic value of PET/CT with 11C-methionine (MET) and 18F-fluorothymidine (FLT) in newly diagnosed glioma based on the 2016 WHO classification
Authors: Ogawa Tomoya , Kawai Nobuyuki , Miyake Keisuke , Shinomiya Aya , Yamamoto Yuka , Nishiyama Yoshihiro , Tamiya Takashi
Published: April 2020

Background The molecular features of isocitrate dehydrogenase ( IDH ) mutation and chromosome 1p and 19q (1p/19q) codeletion status have pivotal role for differentiating gliomas and have been integrated in the World Health Organization (WHO) classification in 2016. Positron emission tomography (PET) with 18 F-fluorothymidine (FLT) has been used to evaluate tumour grade and proliferative activity and compared with L-methyl- 11 C-methionine (MET) in glioma patients. Herein, we evaluated tracer uptakes of MET-PET/CT and FLT-PET/CT for differentiating glioma based on the 2016 WHO classification especially in relation to IDH1 mutation status. Methods In total, 81 patients with newly diagnosed supratentorial glioma were enrolled in this study. They underwent PET/CT studies with MET and FLT before surgery. The molecular features and histopathological diagnosis based on the 2016 WHO classification were determined using surgical specimens. The ratios of the maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) of the tumours to the mean SUV of the contralateral cortex (T/N ratios) were calculated on MET-PET/CT and FLT-PET/CT images. Results The mean T/N ratios of MET-PET/CT and FLT-PET/CT in IDH1 -wildtype tumours were significantly higher than those in IDH1 -mutant tumours ( P <0.001 and P <0.001, respectively). Receiver operating characteristic analysis for differentiating IDH1 mutation status showed that the area under the curve of the FLT T/N ratio was significantly larger than that of the MET T/N ratio ( P <0.01). The mean T/N ratio of FLT-PET/CT in IDH1 -wildtype tumours was significantly higher than that in IDH1 -mutant tumours among grade Ⅱ and Ⅲ gliomas ( P =0.005), but this was not the case for MET-PET/CT. Both MET-PET/CT and FLT-PET/CT were able to distinguish between grade Ⅱ and Ⅲ gliomas in IDH1 -mutant tumours ( P =0.002 and P <0.001, respectively), but only FLT-PET/CT was able to distinguish between grade Ⅲ and Ⅳ gliomas in IDH1 -wildtype tumours ( P =0.029). Conclusion This study showed that FLT-PET/CT can be used to determine the IDH1 mutation status and evaluate glioma grade more accurately than MET-PET/CT. FLT-PET/CT can improve glioma differentiation based on the 2016 WHO classification, but caution must be paid for tumours without contrast enhancement.
Bidirect effects from cisplatin combine with rosmarinic acid (RA) or hot water extracts of Glechoma hederacea (HWG) on renal cancer cells
Authors: Chou Su-Tze , Ho Bing Ying , Tai Yu Ting , Huang Chun Jen , Chao Wen Wan
Published: April 2020

Background: Cisplatin (CDDP) is a chemotherapeutic drug which also causes adverse side effects. Glechoma hederacea is a traditional Chinese herb belonging to the Labiatae family and has many biological activities. Our previous study indicated that rosmarinic acid (RA) was the most abundant phytochemical in G. hederacea. However, the antioxidant or anti-inflammatory effects of the combined treatment of G. hederacea, RA and CDDP on human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) 786-O cells have not been clearly demonstrated. We aimed to investigate the bioefficacy of hot water extracts of G. hederacea (HWG) and RA in inhibiting RCC 786-O cell activity and its synergism with CDDP against metastatic renal cancer cell. Methods: Bioactivities of the combination treatment of HWG, RA, HWG/CDDP and RA/CDDP were assessed using the MTT assay and transwell migration, and the crude extract/compound efficacy was evaluated using wound healing migration assays, flow cytometry and western blotting. Results: Our study indicates that CDDP inhibits 786-O cell proliferation and migration and HWG and RA protect against these effects. On the other hand, HWG and RA demonstrate a low cytotoxic effect in human renal proximal tubular epithelial cell line -2 (HK-2 cells). Cell cycle analysis found that HWG/CDDP and RA/CDDP combination treatment exerted cytotoxicity by inducing G2/M arrest and apoptosis. RA in combination with CDDP significantly inhibit the expression of p-FAK (Tyr 925) in RCC 786-O cells in vitro.Conclusion: We propose that the inhibition of RA on RCC 786-O cell invasion and migration may partly occur through the downregulation of FAK phosphorylation. The HWG/CDDP and RA/CDDP combination treatments may be effective strategies for intervention of RCC 786-O cell activity.
Biomarker Discovery in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: RNA sequencing of Whole Blood in Discordant Twin and Case-Controlled Cohorts
Authors: McCaffrey Timothy , III Georges St. Laurent , Shtokalo Dmitry , Antonets Denis , Vyatkin Yuri , Jones Daniel , Battison Eleanor , Nigg Joel
Published: April 2020

Background: A variety of DNA-based methods have been applied to identify genetic markers of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but the connection to RNA-based gene expression has not been fully exploited. Using well defined cohorts of discordant, monozygotic twins from the Michigan State University Twin Registry, and case-controlled ADHD cases in adolescents, the present studies utilized advanced single molecule RNA sequencing to identify expressed changes in whole blood RNA in ADHD. Multiple analytical strategies were employed to narrow differentially expressed RNA targets to a small set of potential biomarkers of ADHD. Results: RNA markers common to both the discordant twin study and case-controlled subjects further narrowed the putative targets, some of which had been previously associated with ADHD at the DNA level. The potential role of several differentially expressed genes, including ABCB5, RGS2, GAK, GIT1 and 3 members of the galactose metabolism pathway (GALE, GALT, GALK1) are substantiated by prior associations to ADHD and by established mechanistic connections to molecular pathways relevant to ADHD and behavioral control. Conclusions: The convergence of DNA, RNA, and metabolic data suggests these may be promising targets for diagnostics and therapeutics in ADHD.
Hemagglutinin presented on the surface of Lactococcus lactis confers broad cross-clade protection against different H5N1 viruses in chickens
Authors: Lei Han , Cen Qianhong , Gao Tong , Peng Xiaojue
Published: April 2020

Background Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus has the potential threat to poultry industry. Current avian influenza H5N1 vaccines for poultry are clade-specific, Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an effective vaccine for preventing and controlling H5N1 viruses from different clades. Results Recombinant L.lactis /pNZ8148-Spax-HA was generated which influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) protein of A/chicken/Henan/12/2004 was displayed on the surface of Lactococcus lactis ( L.lactis ) and Spax was used an anchor protein. Chickens vaccinated orally with the unadjuvanted L.lactis /pNZ8148-Spax-HA could produce significant humoral and mucosal responses, as well as the neutralizing activities against different clades of H5N1 viruses. Importantly, the unadjuvanted L.lactis /pNZ8148-Spax-HA could conferred cross-clade protection against lethal challenge with different H5N1 viruses in the chicken model. Conclusion This study provides insight into the cross-clade protection conferred by the unadjuvanted L.lactis /pNZ8148-Spax-HA that may help establish a promising platform for the development of a safe and effective H5N1 cross-clade vaccine in poultry. Keywords: L.lactis /pNZ8148-Spax-HA, cross protection, H5N1 cross-clade vaccine.
Poly Traditional Chinese Medicine formulation prepared with skin moisturizing properties
Authors: Meng Hong , Li Jia-Rui , Dong Yin-Mao , Li Li , He Yi-Fan , Ren Han-Kun , Liu You-Ting , Qu Zhao-Hui , Zhang Wei-Hong , Zhang Li-Ping , YI Fan
Published: April 2020

Background Many traditional Chinese medicine compositions can moisturize the skin and utilize in cosmetics. Using a combination of Chinese Medicine Materials and guided by Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, this study selected Echinacea purpurea to protect the skin barrier, Dendrobium nobile to clear heat and promote fluid production, Sophora flavescens to clear heat for diminished inflammation, and Aloe vera combined Lycium barbarum to nourish yin, to together form a "poly TCM moisturizing formulation". Methods These poly plant extracts were investigated and optimized for the stability, safety and moisturizing ability. The combination moisturizing effect was determined by measuring the expression of FLG mRNA, CLDN-1 mRNA and AQP3 protein. Toxicological analysis included a red blood cell hemolysis test and a 3T3 phototoxicity test . Results It has been observed that by using polysaccharide yield as the evaluation criterion showed optimal extraction at a material-to-liquid ratio of 1:100, an extraction temperature of 100 °C, and an extraction time of 3 h. Moisturizing effect experiments showed that the expression of FLG mRNA, CLDN-1 mRNA and AQP3 protein was significantly increased. Toxicological tests showed that the composition was safe and caused no irritating effects. Conclusion Based on these results, this poly TCM moisturizing formulation is safe within moisturizing effects and can be used as a moisturizing raw material in cosmetics.
A bioinformatics study of autophagy biomarkers associated with the prognosis of endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Liu Wei , Sun Rui , Bai Yixuan , Xie Yunkai , Li Changzhong
Published: April 2020

Background: Autophagy plays a critical role in endometrial carcinoma (EC), but prognosis studies of differentially expressed autophagy-related genes (DEARGs) in EC are lacking. This study aimed to access the prognostic value of autophagy-related genes (ARGs) in EC and to identify the potential characteristics of ARGs in predicting patient survival and guiding treatment.Methods: The RNA-Seq data and clinical data were obtained from TCGA databases. The DEARGs were identified by “limma” package in R software. Clusterprofler was used for functional analysis. Using STRING databases to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and plug-in MCODE to screen hub modules in Cytoscape. The degrees method of cytoHubba was used to select important hub genes. Co-expression analysis was performed using “limma” package and Metascape for functional analysis. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to construct a prognostic signature. Kaplan–Meier curve analysis, ROC curve analysis and Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were also performed. Validation was executed by UALCAN, CCLE and HPA databases.Results: In total, 45 DEARGs were identified. Functional analysis showed that DEARGs were strikingly enriched in autophagy pathway. PPI network showed that CASP3 was the most central protein. CASP3 co-expression analysis revealed that co-expressed genes were mostly enriched in cell cycle. We identified a novel prognostic signature consisting of 3 genes (CDKN2A, PTK6 and GRID2). The risk score based on the prognostic signature was able to classify patients into high-risk and low-risk groups with significantly different overall survival. Furthermore, the prognostic signature is an independent prognostic predictor of survival and demonstrates superior prognostic performance compared with the clinicopathologic features for predicting 5-year survival. CDKN2A and PTK6 were further validated in UALCAN. GSEA suggested that the two genes played crucial roles in drug metabolism.Conclusion: Using bioinformatics analyses, we identified DEARGs and determined CDKN2A, PTK6 and DRID2 are tumor-associated genes and can be utilized as possible biomarkers in EC treatment.
Manual Individualization of the Dialysate flow according to blood flow: Effects on the Hemodialysis dose delivered and on Dialysate consumption
Authors: Moustapha FAYE , KEITA Niakhaleen , Faye Maria , BERDAI Yousseph , LEMRABOTT Ahmed Tall , Mbengue Mansour , Ba Bacary , Diagne Seynabou , Dieng Ameth , BA Mamadou Aw , KA Elhadji Fary
Published: April 2020

Background: The objective of this work was to assess the impact of the decrease in dialysate flow rate on the dialysis dose delivered (spKt /V) to chronic hemodialysis patients and to estimate the resulting water saving. Methods: It was a prospective 4-week-period study that included chronic hemodialysis patients with clinical and hemodynamic stability. The patients successively underwent hemodialysis with a dialysate flow rate of 500 ml / min, at 1, 1.2 and 1.5 times the blood flow rate. Each dialysate flow rate was applied for one week. During these 4 weeks, the following parameters were kept constant: duration of dialysis, blood flow rate, anticoagulation, membrane nature and surface. Results: Forty-five chronic hemodialysis patients were included with a mean age of 48.4 ± 12.07 years. The weekly average spKt/V was statistically higher with a dialysate flow rate at 1.5 times the blood flow rate compared to the dialysate flow at 500 mL / min (p = 0.001). The proportion of patients achieving a standardized dialysis dose ≥ 1.4 was statistically higher with dialysate flow at 500 mL / min (64.4%) compared to dialysate flow at 1 or 1.2 times the blood flow rate which were 57.8% and 55.6%, respectively. It was statistically higher with a dialysate flow at 1.5 times the blood flow (93.3%) compared to the dialysate flow at 500 mL / min (p = 0.036). The dialysate volume used with a dialysate flow rate of 500 mL / min was higher compared to the other dialysate flow rates (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: An adequate dialysis dose could be achieved with a dialysate flow rate of 1.5 times the blood flow rate, thereby saving significant amount of water.
LncRNA MEG3 affects cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration by targeting miR-9-5p/MDK axis and activating PDK/AKT pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wu Dezhi , Ma Zheng , Ma Deyu , Li Qiquan
Published: April 2020

Background Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) was supposed to be a tumor suppressor in various cancers. However, the role of MEG3 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the related molecular mechanisms are not well illustrated. This study aimed to determine the biological function of MEG3 in regulating HCC cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration. Moreover, the interaction among MEG3, microRNA (miR)-9-5p and Midkine (MDK), and the activation of phosphoinositide-dependent kinase (PDK)/AKT pathway in HCC cells were examined. Methods and Results Expression of MEG3 in a series of liver cancer cell lines was detected by RT-qPCR. Luciferase reporter assay, RT-qPCR and western blot were used to determine the interaction among MEG3, miR-9-5p and MDK, and the activation of PDK/AKT pathway. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated by CCK8, flow cytometry analysis for cell cycle and apoptosis, and Caspase 3/9 activity. Cell migration was determined by wound healing assay and MMP1 expression. We found MEG3 was decreased in HCC cell lines compared with the normal liver cell line. MEG3 suppressed HCC cell proliferation and migration, and induced cell apoptosis. Further, we found MEG3 targets miR-9-5p/MDK axis and modulates PDK/AKT pathway in HCC. Conclusion Our findings demonstrated that lncRNA MEG3 affects HCC cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration through its targeting of miR-9-5p/MDK and regulating of PDK/AKT pathway. This study suggested MEG3/miR-9-5p/MDK axis as the potential therapeutic target in HCC.
Survival after Curative Resection for Stage I Colorectal Mucinous Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Liang , Luo Shuangling , Lai Sicong , Cai Yonghua , Liu Zhanzhen , Hu Huanxin , Zeng Ziwei , Xian Cory J , Dong Jianghui , Wang Liping , Kang Liang
Published: April 2020

Background : The prognostic value of the mucinous adenocarcinoma histotype on the early stages especially for stage I colorectal cancer (CRC) is still unclear. This study determined the clinicopathologic characteristics and long-term outcome of stage I colorectal mucinous adenocarcinomas (MAC).Methods : Among the total of 503 patients with stage I CRC (56 having MAC and 447 having non-MAC) who underwent radical resection, the correlation between clinicopathological factors and MAC was analyzed. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine whether mucinous histotype itself was an independent prognostic impact in stage I patients.Results : MACs were observed more frequently located in the colon than rectum ( p =0.046), more frequently displayed the microsatellite instability (MSI) phenotype ( p =0.023) and had a greater frequency of T2 stage ( p =0.001). The rate of recurrence was 13.5% and the cancer-specific mortality was 4.3% among all stage I CRC patients. There was no difference in disease-free survival and overall survival between MACs and non-MACs. On multivariate analysis, older age ( p =0.030), rectal cancer ( p =0.025), lymphovascular invasion (LVI) ( p <0.001), and microsatellite stability (MSS) phenotypes ( p =0.023) were independently associated to poor survival of stage I CRC. A high carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level ( p =0.031), LVI ( p =0.002) and MSS phenotypes ( p =0.012) were independently related to short disease-free survival of stage I CRC.Conclusions : Compared with non-MAC, MAC patients had more T2 patients and more MSI phenotypes in stage I CRC at presentation, but the mucinous histology is not a significant predictor of recurrence and prognosis in stage I CRC.
Noninvasive ventilation masks with viral filters to protect health care workers from SARS-CoV-2 / Coronavirus infections
Authors: Dellweg Dominic , Haidl Peter , Kerl Jens , Koehler Dieter
Published: April 2020

Background:There is a shortage of masks and respirators for the protection of health care professionals during the current SARS-CoV-2 / Coronavirus pandemic. Masks for non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in combination with viral-proof filters could serve as an alternative protection measure. We wanted to determine the aerosol filtering efficacies of such devices in comparison to conventional surgical masks, N95 and FFP3 respirators.Method:Masks and respirators were mounted on a ventilated mannequin head in a test-chamber. Absorption of radioactive particles was measured compared to a non-filtered reference port.Results: Filter efficacies were 93.3 ± 1.5 % for a ResMed AcuCare NIV-mask plus filter, 71.2 ± 0.2 % for a ResMed Mirage Quattro FX NIV-mask plus filter, 89.4 ± 0.9 % for a Loewenstein JOYCEclinc FF NIV-mask plus filter, 48.4 ± 4 % for a surgical mask with rubber band, 60.5 ± 9.1 % for a surgical mask with ribbons, 56.9 ± 7.5 % for a FFP3 respirator, 64.5 % ± 5.1 for a N95 respirator. The ResMed AcuCare and the Loewenstein JOYCEclinic FF mask were more effective than any other of the tested devices (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001 respectively)Conclusion:NIV masks with viral-proof filters effectively filter respirable particles. Two tested NIV masks were more effective than the tested FFP3 and N95 respirators.
Safety of Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients with Prior Chest or Neck Irradiation. A Retrospective Cohort Study.
Authors: Mahmoud Osama , Alsaid Amro
Published: April 2020

Aims: Prior chest and neck irradiation are considered relative contraindications to transesophageal echocardiography. The foundation of such a warning is theoretical and, at best anecdotal. We intended to retrospectively examine the safety of transesophageal echocardiography in this cohort.Methods and results: Utilizing the relevant International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code s, patients older than 18 years old with prior chest or neck irradiation therapy who underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) at our institution in the period between 2004-2020 were identified and considered for inclusion. 31 patients, who underwent a total of 49 TEE studies, were included in the final analysis. In a 30 day follow up period following the index TEE, no significant complications occurred in any of the patients. Conclusions: In this small cohort of patients with prior chest or neck irradiation therapy, transesophageal echocardiography was carried out safely and successfully.