bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonviral mcDNA-Mediated Cospecific CAR T Cells For The Treatment of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Xenograft in Mice
Authors: Wang Hezhi , Wang Xiaoxiao , Ye Xueshuai , Ju Yi , Cao Nana , Wang Shuqi , Cai Jianhui
Published: November 2021

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and the adoptive immunotherapy of which is worth studying. CD133, a kind of cancer stem cell (CSC) antigen, together with glypican-3 (GPC3) have been proved to be highly expressed in HCC cells and both of them are used as targets to generate chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. But there are limitations like “on-target, off-tumor” toxicity, low transfection efficacy and weak antitumor ability in CAR T cells treatment.Methods: First we fused anti-CD133 and anti-GPC3 single chain Fragment variable (scFv) structures with intracellular domains, respectively. Using non-viral minicircle DNA (mcDNA) vectors to generate co-specific CAR T cells (CoG133-CAR T cells) against CD133 and GPC3 double-positive HCC cells. We exhibited the transduction efficiency of CoG133-CAR T cells and the antigen expression of tumor cell lines. Finally, the antitumor efficacy of CoG133-CAR T cells both in vitro and in vivo was detected. Results: GPC3-CAR and CD133-CAR were successfully prepared using non-viral mcDNA vectors to generate effector cells. For the GPC3 and CD133 double-positive HCC (Huh7) xenograft mice, co-specific CAR T cells possessed stronger tumor growth suppression compared to single-targeted CAR (GPC3-CAR and CD133-CAR) T cells which induced only one antigen-mediated signal pathway. The same results also occurred on the in vitro experiments including cytokine secretion, cytotoxicity and proliferation ability of CAR T cells. Vital organs from CoG133-CAR T cells and normal T cells respectively treated Huh7 xenograft mice were stained by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), the images showed no difference. Conclusions: The mcDNA vectors loading CAR structures were transfected into T cells by electroporation without genetic mutation or mismatch. Huh7 is an HCC cell line with two antigens of GPC3 and CD133 highly expressed. The antitumor efficacy of co-specific CAR (CoG133-CAR) T cells against Huh7 cells is significantly enhanced. The joint design of two specific targets and non-viral vectors leads much more safety, also.
Salvianolic Acid B Improves the Effect of Fat Grafts by Inhibiting the NF-kB Signalling Pathway in Macrophages
Authors: Sun Jia-Ming , Ho Chia-Kang , Gao Ya , Chong Chio-Hou , Liu Yang-Dan , Zheng Dan-Ning , Zhang Yi-Fan , Li Yu
Published: November 2021

Background

Autologous fat grafting (AFG), although an appealing approach to repair soft tissue defects, has various complications. Excessive inflammation at the transplant site is one of the main reasons for the poor effect of fat transplantation and occurrence of complications. Our previous study proved that Salvia miltiorrhiza can enhance fat graft survival. Salvianolic acid B (Sal-B) is the most abundant and bioactive water-soluble compound in Salvia miltiorrhiza and has anti-inflammatory effects on other diseases. Therefore, we hypothesized that salvianolic acid B could improve the effect of fat grafts by inhibiting inflammation.
Methods

In vivo, 0.2 ml of Coleman fat was transplanted into nude mice with salvianolic acid B. The grafts were evaluated by HE and IF at 2, 4 and 12 weeks posttransplantation and by micro-CT at 4 weeks posttransplantation. In vitro, the proliferative and anti-inflammatory activities of salvianolic acid B were analyzed in cultured RAW264.7 cells to detect the mechanism by which salvianolic acid B affects graft survival by inhibiting inflammation.
Results

In vivo, the degree of adipose tissue fibrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration in the salvianolic acid B treatment group was lower, and the infiltration of M1 macrophages in fat grafts was also less than that in the control group. In vitro, salvianolic acid B inhibited the proliferation and activation of inflammatory pathways in RAW264.7 cells.
Conclusions

This study demonstrates the use of salvianolic acid B as a possible treatment to improve the effect of fat transplantation.
Bioinformatics Analysis of C3 in Brain Low Grade Gliomas as Potential Therapeutic Target and Promoting Immune Cell Infiltration
Authors: wu Xiujuan , Wu Siyi , Miao Kaiting , Wang Lijing , Ma Yuanyuan
Published: November 2021

Background
Low grade gliomas is the malignant nervous tumor with distinct biological and clinical characteristics. Despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic methods, how to significantly elongate the survival of low grade gliomas is still the challenge. Complement 3, as the critical component in the innate immune system, play an essential role in local immune response and participated into the regulation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor microenvironment.
Methods
In this study, we systematically determined the expression levels of C3 in low grade gliomas using various public databases. Then, we further identified the impact of C3 expression on immune cell infiltration compared to normal tissue, indicating the effect of cellular microenvironment on overall survival of LGG patients.
Results
We obtained transcriptional and survival of C3 in LGG from GEPIA and cBioportal database, and the differentially expressed genes were obtained. By performing the analysis of GO and protein-protein interaction network, we have identified the top-ranked 10 hub genes, which are highly associated with regulation of cell cycle. The gene set enrichment analysis demonstrated that overexpression of C3 in LGG patient is positively correlated with regulation of cell cycle. Finally, the immune cell infiltration of C3 in LGG patients was employed and clearly showed that higher neutrophil infiltration can worsen the survival of LGG patients with higher C3 expression. These results were confirmed by the Human Protein Atlas database, in which expression level of C3 protein in gliomas patients always higher.
Conclusions
This investigation implied that C3 can be as the potential targets of precise therapy for patient with low grade gliomas.
Disease Correlates of Rim Lesions on Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Marcille Melanie , Rúa Sandra Hurtado , Tyshkov Charles , Jaywant Abhishek , Comunale Joseph , Kaunzner Ulrike W. , Nealon Nancy , Perumal Jai S. , Zexter Lily , Zinger Nicole , Bruvik Olivia , Wang Yi , Sweeney Elizabeth , Kuceyeski Amy , Nguyen Thanh D. , Gauthier Susan A.
Published: November 2021

Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM), an imaging technique sensitive to brain iron, has been used to detect paramagnetic rims of iron-laden active microglia and macrophages in a subset of multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions, known as rim+ lesions, and are consistent with chronic active lesions. Because of their potential impact on disease progression and tissue damage, investigating the influence of rim+ lesions on disability and neurodegeneration is critical to establish the impact of these lesions on the disease course. This study aimed to explore the relationship between chronic active rim+ lesions, identified as having a hyperintense rim on QSM, and both clinical disability and imaging measures of neurodegeneration in patients with MS. The patient cohort was composed of 159 relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients. The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis, which includes both the Symbol Digit Modalities Test and California Verbal Learning Test-II, were used to assess clinical disability. Cortical thickness and thalamic volume were evaluated as imaging measures of neurodegeneration. A total of 4,469 MS lesions were identified, of which 171 QSM rim+ (3.8%) lesions were identified among 57 patients (35.8%). In a multivariate regression model, as the overall total lesion burden increased, patients with at least one rim+ lesion on QSM performed worse on both physical disability and cognitive assessments, specifically the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (p=0.010), California Verbal Learning Test-II (p=0.030), and EDSS (p=0.001). In a separate univariate regression model, controlling for age (p<0.001), having at least one rim+ lesion was related to more cortical thinning (p= 0.03) in younger patients (< 45 years). Lower thalamic volume was associated with older patients (p=0.038) and larger total lesion burden (p<0.001); however, the association did not remain significant with rim+ lesions (p=0.10). Our findings demonstrate a novel observation that chronic active lesions, as identified on QSM, modify the impact of lesion burden on clinical disability in MS patients. These results support further exploration of rim+ lesions for therapeutic targeting in MS to reduce disability and subsequent neurodegeneration.
Timing Assessment of Response to Fluid Challenge in Patients with Septic Shock
Authors: Huang Hui-bin , Xu Biao , Liu Guang-Yun , Du Bin
Published: November 2021

Objectives: Fluid challenge (FC) is most commonly used for fluid responsiveness (FR) evaluation, with a wide divergence in assessment time choices. Therefore, we aimed to explore the optimal assessment time for FC in patients with septic shock. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted. Septic shock patients who had experienced initial resuscitation and required an FC with 500 mL 4% gelatin or normal saline (NS) over 5-10 min were included. FR was defined by an increase in cardiac index (CI) >10%. FR and other predefined variables were recorded at baseline (Tb), immediately (T0), and at 10 (T1), 30 (T2), 45 (T3), 60 (T4), 90 (T5), and 120 (T6) min after FC. The incidence of FR and hemodynamic variables at predefined time points were recorded. Data were analyzed by repeated measures of analysis of variance. Results: 63 patients were enrolled, with 43 in the gelatin group and 20 in the NS group. Among the 45/63 (71%) responders, 31 were responded at T0 (ER), while 14 responded at T1 or later (LR). The proportion of NR, ER and LR was comparable between gelatin and NS groups. After FC, the time course of FR status was slightly different between gelatin and NS groups. In the gelatin group, FC induced most responders (69%, 31/45) and frequency of CI maximum (35%, 11/31) at T2 and sustained a positive FR status until T4; while in the NS group, FC induced most responders (55%, 11/20) and frequency of CI maximum (64%, 9/14) at T1, and sustained FR status until T1. Conclusions: Different time courses of FR were found between gelatin and NS group patients undergoing FC. Thus, when NS is used, FR should be performed within 10 min, while it is better to extend the assessment time to 30 min after FC when gelatin is used.
Over-Expression of ZNF677 Inhibits Proliferation, Invasion and Induces Apoptosis in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma 786-0 Cells
Authors: Liang W , Chen SH , Yang GL , Feng JY , Ling Q , Wu B , Yan HB , Cheng JW
Published: November 2021

Background: ZNF677 has been reported downregulation in several cancers due to DNA methylation. Recent studies have demonstrated that ZNF677 acts as a tumor suppressor gene in cancer. However, the expression and function of ZNF677 in ccRCC is still unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression of ZNF677 in ccRCC tissues and the malignant biological behavior of ZNF677 on 786-0 cells. Methods: Combining with bioinformatics analysis,qRT-PCR and IHC analysis was carried out to detect ZNF677 expression in 60 Clear cell Renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) tissues and 47 normal tissues and 786-0 cells. In vitro, lentiviral vector containing negative control and ZNF677 vector was constructed and transfected into 786-0 cells, respectively. CCK8 and clone formation assays were used to measure the proliferation of 786-0 cells, and apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry assay, and transwell assay was carried out to measure the invasion ability of 786-0 cells. Apoptosis markers and EMT markers expression was evaluated by western blot. Results: ZNF677 is hypermethylated in ccRCC and associated with clinicopathologic features,and functional assays suggested that ZNF677 inhibits tumor cell proliferation, invasion and induce apoptosis. Further prognosis analysis indicated that low expression of ZNF677 was associated with shorter overall survival (OS) and ZNF677 suppressed invasion and EMT of 786-0 cells through activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, but the exact mechanism remains unknown. Conclusions: ZNF677 can be used as an adverse prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for ccRCC.
Microbial Diversity of Ticks And A Novel Tyhpus Group Rickettsia Species ( R. bacterium Ac37b) Detected In Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Wu Lin , Xing Li-li , Gui Zheng , Su Si , Yu Jing-feng , Qi Dong-dong , Fu Shao-yin , Si Xiao-yan , Mu Lan
Published: November 2021

Background: Ticks are arthropods that can carry multiple pathogens and parasitize on livestock and mammals as well as on humans. Animal husbandry in Inner Mongolia, China, provides a suitable tick habitat. In this study, PacBio full-length 16S rDNA third-generation sequencing was used to analyze the diversity of microbial communities carried by ticks in different regions of Inner Mongolia. The aim of the study is to characterize the microbiome carried by ticks in different geographical locations and to provide theoretical support for regional prevention and control of pathogen populations in the future. Methods: In this study, a total of 905 Dermacentor nuttalli and 36 Ixodes persuleatus were collected from the surface of sheep in four main pasture areas in Inner Mongolia. Pooled DNA samples were prepared from three samples from each region and from each tick species. In total the microbial diversity of 12 samples was analyzed by PacBio full-length 16S rRNA third-generation sequencing, and the α and β diversity were determined. Results: The main bacterial genera we found were Rickettsia (35.27%), Ac37b (19.33%), Arsenophonus (11.21%), Candidatus Lariskella (10.84%), and Acinetobacter (7.17%). There were significant differences in the microbial composition of ticks from different regions and in different tick species. Rickettsia bellii was found in the I. persuleatus group. In addition, Anaplasma and a novel tyhpus group Rickettsia species (R. bacterium Ac37b) were found in the sample group of D. nuttalli in the city of Ordos.Conclusions: In this study, Rickettsia bellii was first found in I. persuleatus in Inner Mongolia, and a novel tyhpus group Rickettsia species (R. bacterium Ac37b) was found in D. nuttalli from the city of Ordos. Our study provides a basis for the prevention and control of tick-borne diseases through the analysis of tick microbial diversity in different regions of Inner Mongolia. Furthermore, we were able to detect a new tick-borne pathogen in D. nutalli.
MicroRNA-profiling of miR-371~373- and miR-302/367-clusters in Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid Identify Patients with Intracranial Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Schönberger Stefan , Mohseni Mahsa Mir , Ellinger Jörg , Tran Giao Vu Quynh , Becker Martina , Claviez Alexander , Classen Carl-Friedrich , Hermes Barbara , Driever Pablo Hernáiz , Jorch Norbert , Lauten Melchior , Mehlitz Marcus , Schäfer Niklas , Scheer-Preiss Johanna , Schneider Dominik T. , Troeger Anja , Calaminus Gabriele , Dilloo Dagmar
Published: November 2021

Purpose: Intracranial germ cell tumors (iGCT) comprise germinoma and non-germinoma. Their diagnosis predominantly relies on biopsy as only one-fifth of patients present with elevated biomarkers (AFP/ß-HCG) in serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). MicroRNAs (miR/miRNA) have emerged as non-invasive biomarkers in extracranial GCT and may potentially facilitate non-invasive diagnosis in iGCT. Methods: We analyzed eight miRNAs in serum and CSF from the miR-371~373- and miR-302/367-clusters and four miRNAs differentially expressed in iGCT tissue (miR-142-5p/miR-146a-5p/miR-335-5p/miR-654-3p) from eight iGCT patients (age 10-33 years) and 12 control subjects by pre-amplified RT-qPCR. MiR-30b-5p (serum) and miR-204-5p (CSF) acted as reference genes. ΔCt-values were expressed as 2-ΔΔCt after standardization against controls. Results: Between iGCT and control patients’ serum ΔCt-values of miR-371a-3p (p=0.0159), miR-372-3p (p=0.0010), miR-367 (p=0.0190), miR-302a (p=0.0381) and miR-302d-3p (p=0.0159) differed significantly. Discriminatory pattern in CSF was similar to serum as miR-371a (p=0.0286), miR-372-3p (p=0.0028), miR-367-3p (p=0.0167) and miR-302d-3p (p=0.0061) distinguished between patients and controls. Abundant 2-ΔΔCt levels of each miRNA were found across all serum and CSF samples including biomarker-negative patients.Conclusion: With the largest data set so far, we underline the suitability of miR-371a, miR-372, miR-367 and miR-302d in serum and CSF for diagnosis of iGCT, particularly in biomarker-negative germinoma. Diagnosis of iGCT by miRNA analysis is a feasible and valid approach, particularly as serum can be readily obtained by a less invasive procedure. MiRNA analysis may discriminate iGCT from other tumors with similar radiological findings and may allow to monitor response to therapy as well as early relapse during follow-up.
Patterns, Predictors and Outcome of Time to Presentation Among Critically ill Paediatric Patients at Emergency Department of Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Simbila Alphonce N , Kilindimo Said S. , Sawe Hendry R. , Kalezi Zawadi E. , Yussuf Amne O. , Manji Hussein K. , Leyna Germana , Mfinanga Juma A. , Weber Ellen J.
Published: November 2021

Background: Mortality among under-five children in Tanzania remains high. While early presentation for treatment increases likelihood of survival, delays to care are common and factors causing delay to presentation among critically ill children are unknown. Methodology: This was a prospective cohort study of critically ill children aged 28days to 14 years attending emergency department (ED) at Muhimbili National Hospital in Tanzania from September 2019 to January 2020. We documented demographics, time to ED presentation, ED interventions and 30-day outcome. The primary outcome was delay (>48 hours) from the onset of illness to ED presentation. Logistic regression and relative risk were calculated to measure the strength of the predictor and relationship between delay and mortality respectively. Results: We enrolled 440 (59.1%) critically ill children, their median age was 12 [IQR =9-60] months and 63.9% were males. The median time to ED arrival was 3 days [IQR=1-5] and more than half (56.6%) of critically ill children presented to ED in > 48 hours where by being an infant, self-referral and belonging to poor family were independent predictors of delay. Infants and those referred from other facilities had 2.2 (95% CI 1.3-3.8) and 1.7 (95% CI 1.1-2.7) times increased odds of presenting late to the ED respectively. The overall 30-day in-hospital mortality was 26.5% in which those who presented late were 1.3 more likely to die than those who presented early (RR=1.3, CI: 0.9-1.9). Majority died >24 hours of ED arrival (P-value=0.021).Conclusion: Delayed ED presentation of more than 48 hours from onset of illness was associated with in-hospital mortality. A larger study is needed to evaluate the care pathway of critically ill paediatric patients to identify preventable course of delay to tertiary care facility.
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis with Topography-Guided or Asphericity-Adjusted Derived Data: A Comparative Contralateral Eye Study
Authors: Alves Ermano M , Lyra Adriana F , Tenório Manuela , Mesquita Natália , Bacelar Carolina , Montenegro Afra , Alves Lucas , Alves Márcio
Published: November 2021

Background: Wavefront-optimized laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) ablation is the most commonly performed procedure in refractive surgery, but new technologies have become available. Our goal was to compare topography-guided (Contoura) and asphericity-guided (Custom-Q) customized ablation treatments for the correction of myopia with or without astigmatism.Methods: This prospective, randomized, double-blind, contralateral eye study included 60 eyes of 30 patients with myopia or myopic astigmatism requiring femtosecond LASIK (FemtoLASIK) treatment. For each patient, one eye was randomized to undergo Contoura treatment, and the other underwent Custom-Q abaltion. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), manifest refractive spherical equivalent (MRSE), sphere (SPH), cylinder (CYL), 6.0-mm total corneal aberration root mean square (RMS), coma (COMA), trefoil (TREF), and spherical aberration (SA) were measured and analysed after a 1-year follow-up.Results: The UDVA was -0.08 ±0.06 logMAR in Contoura eyes and -0.08 ± 0.05 logMAR in Custom-Q eyes (p = 0.309) after 12 months. Twenty-five eyes (83%) in the Contoura group and twenty-six eyes (87%) in the Custom-Q group had a UDVA of 20/16 at the end of 12 months, and 100% of eyes in both groups reached a UDVA of 20/25 or better. Ninety and 100% of eyes in the Contoura and Custom-Q groups, respectively, achieved a residual CYL ≤0.50 D (p=0.237). No statistically significant difference was observed between the surgical techniques in the preoperative to 1-year postoperative changes for any of the parameters evaluated (MRSE, CYL, RMS, DEF, COMA, TREF, and SA).Conclusions: The Contoura and Custom-Q techniques yielded excellent visual and refractive results, but the evidence did not reveal any clear differences between these two methods after one year of follow-up. Trial registration: RBR-8rs5kt Myopia and Astigmatism Topography-guided Refractive Surgery by Contoura Method Versus Customized by Asphericity in Contralateral Eyes: A prospective Double-blind Randomized Study. UTN code: U111-1243-7257
Diversity Patterns of Protists are Highly Affected by Methods Disentangling Inter-specific Variants: A Case Study in Oligotrich (s.l.) Ciliates
Authors: Xu Jiahui , Han Jianlin , Su Hua , Zhu Changyu , Quan Zijing , Yi Zhenzhen , Wu Lei
Published: November 2021

An enormous amount of environmental sequences produced by high-throughput sequencing (HTS) is popular for inferring diversity and distribution patterns of protists, which are widely distributed and playing important roles in energy flux and nutrient cycling. However, study testing whether methods disentangling inter-specific variants affect the diversity and distribution patterns of protists using field samples is insufficient. Using oligotrich (s.l.) ciliates, one group of abundant and dominate planktonic protists, in field samples as an example, the present study indicates that DADA2 performs better than UCLUST and UPARSE for inferring diversity patterns of oligotrich (s.l.) ciliates in Pearl River Estuary and surrounding regions. UPARSE, as an OTU-construction method might underestimate species richness and produce less reliable beta diversity pattern than DADA2. UCLUST with 97% and 99% clustering thresholds overestimate species richness, and the beta diversity pattern inferred by the former one is unreasonable. Salinity is shown to be one of the key factors responsible for variations in community distribution of ciliates, but infrequent marine-freshwater transitions occurred during evolutionary terms of this group.
Assessing the Agronomical and Environmental Impacts of the Application of Green Waste-derived Compost on Sugar Beet Under Deficit Irrigation Conditions
Authors: Al-Dhumri Sami A. , El-darder Amr M. , Alfurayji Mohammed A. , Abou-Elwafa Salah Fatouh
Published: November 2021

In the light of global warming and climate changes, as well as the rapid expansion in sugar beet production in the arid and semi-arid regions, improving sugar beet productivity under deficit irrigation is of great importance. Green waste-derived compost (GWC) is a valuable soil amendment for improving soil organic matter, decreasing waste products and potential pollutants. The application of 14 ton ha-1 of GWC resulted in the highest root and recoverable sugar yields especially under the well-irrigated conditions under drip irrigation. Although, the impurities% in the beet root juice was increased under deficit irrigation conditions, sugar beet root biofortification and juice quality were significantly improved under drip irrigation in response to the application of 14 ton ha-1 of GWC by increasing sucrose content, QZ% and RS%. The application of GWC under drip irrigation enhanced water use efficiency for root yield (WUERY) and recoverable sugar yield (WUERSY), in particular under drip irrigation. The soil chemical and physical properties were significantly improved in response to the application of GWC. The results indicate that the application of GWC is essential for the sustainable sugar beet production and efficient irrigation water use in sandy soils.
Complete Response of a Colonic High-Grade Neuroendocrine Carcinoma to Platinum-Based Therapy: Insights from Comprehensive Genomic Profiling
Authors: Wood Richard , Rayson Daniel , Arnason Thomas , DeCoste Ryan C , Gaston Daniel , Carter Michael D
Published: November 2021

Background
Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) is an essential tool in precision medicine, providing diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive (therapeutic) information that enables personalized optimal care for cancer patients. We present the case of a 54-year-old woman with stage IV large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the colon with liver and nodal metastases with complete response to therapy and demonstrate the value of CGP in identifying potential targets for treatment in these tumors.
Results
CGP performed on the tumor showed pathogenic mutations in multiple oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes including BRCA1, BAP1, and BRAF, high tumor mutation burden (TMB), and high microsatellite instability (MSI-H). Treatment with platinum-based therapy resulted in a complete radiographic response of the metastases, with no evidence of recurrence after 6.5 years. Assessment by Medical Genetics did not identify any evidence of hereditary cancer syndrome. The dramatic response to therapy is likely due to loss of BRCA1 and/or BAP1 function, as deleterious mutations in both genes predict response to platinum-based therapy through exploitation of deficient homologous recombination repair (HRR). The information provided by CGP also suggested potential tumor sensitivity to poly(ADP-Ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi), immunotherapy (IT) and BRAF/MEK inhibitor therapy, should the tumor recur.
Conclusion
This case highlights the value of CGP in guiding diagnosis and management of rare and aggressive tumors.
Hemostatic Efficacy of a Flowable Collagen-Thrombin Matrix During Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kim Hyohyun , Lee Kang Ju , Lee Seung Hyun , Kang Dae yong , Lee Jun Hyuk , Youn Young-Nam
Published: November 2021

Background
Flowable hemostatic agents are advantageous in that they can be applied to irregular wound surfaces and to areas that are difficult to approach directly. We sought to compare the effectiveness and safety of the flowable hemostatic sealants Collastat® (collagen hemostatic matrix, [CHM]) and Floseal® (gelatin hemostatic matrix, [GHM]) during off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB).
Methods
In this prospective, randomized trial, 160 patients undergoing elective OPCAB surgery were enrolled between March 2018 and February 2020. After primary suture of the aortocoronary anastomosis, an area of hemorrhage was identified, and patients were double blind randomized to receive either CHM or GHM (n = 80, each). Study endpoints were the following: rate of successful intraoperative hemostasis and time required for hemostasis overall postoperative bleeding, rate of transfusion of blood products, rate of surgical revision for bleeding, postoperative morbidity, and intensive care unit stay.
Results
Of the total patients, 23% were female, and the mean age was 63 years (range: 42–81 years). Successful hemostasis within 5 min was achieved for 78 patients (97.5%) in the GHM group, compared to 80 patients (100%) in the CHM group (p = 0.497). Two patients receiving GHM required surgical revision to achieve hemostasis. There were no differences in the mean time required to obtain hemostasis (GHM vs. CHM, 1.49 ± 0.94 vs. 1.35 ± 0.60 min, p = 0.272), as confirmed by time-to-event analysis (p = 0.605). The two groups had similar amounts of mediastinal drainage for 24 h postoperatively (p = 0.298). The CHM group required less packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, and platelets for transfusion than the GHM group (0.5 vs. 0.7 units per patient, p = 0.047; 17.5% vs. 25.0%, p = 0.034; 7.5% vs. 15.0%, p = 0.032; respectively).
Conclusions
CHM performed similarly to a commonly used hemostatic agent with regard to achieving effective and fast interoperative hemostasis during OPCAB. The topical flowable hemostatic agent, CHM, could be effectively used during cardiac surgery for intraoperative hemostasis of great vessels with high pressure.
Trial registration
: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT 04310150
Association between serum uric acid level and carotid atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Yan , Ouyang Shengrong , Li Mengdi , Liu Rui , Zhang Yuqi , Liu Xiaojun , Li Tianfang , Liu Shengyun
Published: November 2021

Background

Serum uric acid (SUA) is associated with many cardiovascular risk factors, such as metabolic syndrome (MetS) and subclinical atherosclerosis. However, the relationship of SUA with carotid atherosclerosis remains controversial. We aimed to investigate whether elevated SUA levels are associated with a high risk of carotid atherosclerosis and MetS in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed with a sample of 1,947 hospitalized patients with T2DM. Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and carotid artery plaques (CAP) were measured via Doppler ultrasound.
Results

Uric acid levels were negatively associated with HbA1C, eGFR, and HDL-C (all P < 0.001) and positively associated with WBC, BMI, ACR, creatinine, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure (all P < 0.001). After adjusting for multiple potential confounders, the risks were substantially higher for MetS in the highest quartile of SUA levels (odds ratio: 2.91, 95% confidence interval: 1.54–5.51, P = 0.003 for trend) than in the lowest quartile of SUA levels. Furthermore, a significant increase was observed in the prevalence of overweight/obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia across the SUA quartiles independent of confounders. However, no significant association was found between SUA quartile with the presence of carotid atherosclerosis.
Conclusions

In patients with T2DM, SUA levels were closely associated with MetS and its components but not with carotid atherosclerosis.
Investigation of Climate and Land Use Change Impacts on Stream Flow of Guder Catchment, Ethiopia
Authors: Gulti Bekam Bekele , Manyazew Boja Mokonnen , Serur Abdulkerim Bedewi
Published: November 2021

Climate change (CC) and land use/cover change (LUCC) are the main drivers of streamflow change. In this paper, we investigate the impact of climate and LULC change impact on stream flow of Guder catchment by using Soil and Water Assessment model (SWAT). The scenarios were designed in a way that LULC was changed while climate conditions remain constant; LULC was then held constant under a changing climate and combined effect of both. The result shows that, the combined impacts of climate change and LULC dynamics can be rather different from the effects that follow-on from LULC or climate change alone. Streamflow would be more sensitive to climate change than to the LULC changes scenario, even though changes in LULC have far-reaching influences on streamflow in the study region. A comprehensive strategy of low impact developments, smart growth, and open space is critical to handle future changes to streamflow systems.
Number of Experiments that Should be Considered in the Cluster Analysis of Common Bean Genotypes for Plant Architecture and Grain Yield Traits
Authors: Ribeiro Nerinéia Dalfollo , Maziero Sandra Maria
Published: November 2021

The number of experiments that allows the choice of parents to be used in controlled crossings in a more assertive way in cluster analysis is unknown for plant architecture and grain yield traits in common bean. Therefore, the objective of this work was to determine the number of experiments that should be considered in Tocher's and the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) cluster analyses to identify promising common bean parents for several plant architecture and grain yield traits. Four experiments were carried out in different years and growing seasons, in the same site. The randomized block design was used and 17 common bean genotypes with carioca (beige seed coat with brown streaks) and black grains were evaluated in relation to 12 traits related to plant architecture and five traits related to grain yield. Statistical analyses were performed with data obtained from individual and combined experiments. Significant genotype × experiment interaction was observed for most of the evaluated traits. When Tocher's and UPGMA cluster analyses was performed from data obtained in individual experiments different groups were formed. The use from data obtained in two, three ou four experiments allowed greather reliability in the formation of groups. Three and two experiments are sufficient in the Tocher's and the UPGMA cluster analyses, respectively, to identify promising carioca and black common bean parents for several plant architecture and grain yield traits in a more assertive way.
Analysis of Dairy Farming Systems in the Sahelian Zone of Burkina Faso
Authors: Sanon Hadja , Samuel NEYA , Salif KONFE , Valérie BOUGOUMA
Published: November 2021

The insufficiency and variability of pasture production is a determining factor in milk production, particularly in the Sahelian zone. The objective of this study was to characterize dairy production systems and their relationship with crops to meet livestock needs. It consisted of surveys of 120 farmers in four communes in the Séno province. The results show three groups of dairy farmers that are essentially differentiated by the main activity and the sex of the farmers as well as the size of the cattle herd on the farm. The first group is made of male agropastoralists, with herds averaging 12 cattle. Group 2 consists of male agropastoralists with an average of 22 cattle. Group 3 consists of female pastoralists (96.15%), with a herd size of about 19 head. The cows are fed on pasture and supplemented with crop residues with cotton cake, which is more important in group 2, where more farmers have hayloft for fodder conservation and manure pits compared to the other two groups. Crop residues are used primarily as feed in all groups from January to May. This supplementation allows the maintenance of milk production in the dry season and group 2, with more dairy cows, records more milk milked (6.5 and 3.8 l) and consumed in wet and dry seasons compared to the other two groups. The results suggest that the farmers in the area have low technical level and need capacity building in agropastoral fields to improve their production.
Alcohol Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Metastasis Through SIRT7-Dependent EMT Regulation
Authors: Zhang Chen , Zhao Jinqiu , Zhao Jie , Liu Bohao , Tang Wenbin , Liu Yi , Huang Wenxiang , Weinman Steven A , LI ZHUAN
Published: November 2021

Background

Long-term alcohol use is a confirmed risk factor of liver cancer tumorigenesis and metastasis. Multiple mechanisms responsible for alcohol related tumorigenesis have been proposed, including toxic reactive metabolite production, oxidative stress and fat accumulation which trigger hepatocyte cell death and inflammation. However, mechanisms underlying alcohol-mediated liver cancer metastasis remain largely unknown.
Methods

SIRT7 expression pattern and its association with HCC metastasis were investigated by bioinformatic analysis and verified by western blot and immunochemistry in HCC tissues. The biological consequences of overexpression and knockdown of SIRT7 in HCC metastasis were studied in vitro and in vivo. qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence assay, ChIP assay were utilized to assess the effects of SIRT7 on E-cadherin expression. Effects of alcohol on SIRT7 expression were evaluated by qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence and inhibitor treatments and pulmonary metastasis model mice fed with Lieber Decarli alcohol diet were used to clarify the mechanisms by which SIRT7 facilitated alcohol mediated HCC metastasis.
Results

SIRT7 is a critical factor in promoting liver cancer metastasis. SIRT7 expression is closely associated with disease stage and high SIRT7 predicts worse overall and disease-free survival. Overexpression of SIRT7 promotes HCC cell migration and EMT while knockdown of SIRT7 showed opposite effects. Mechanistically, we found that SIRT7 suppresses E-Cadherin expression through promoter binding and H3K18 deacetylation. Most importantly, we identified that alcohol upregulates SIRT7 expression in hepatocyte both in vitro and in vivo. Reducing SIRT7 activity completely abolished alcohol-mediated liver cancer metastasis in vivo.
Conclusion

SIRT7-dependent EMT regulation is a pivotal regulatory mechanism of alcohol-mediated HCC metastasis and reveals previously unidentified roles of SIRT7 in promoting EMT and metastasis in human HCC. Therapeutic strategies that inhibit SIRT7 may offer novel options for the treatment of HCC.
A Gaussian model approach to determine the commencement, termination and length of the major growing season over the dry zone of Sri Lanka
Authors: Ampitiyawatta Asanga D , Nilmalgoda E.P.R.H.H.W. , Wimalasiri Eranga M.
Published: November 2021

The commencement, termination and length of the major (Maha) growing season over the dry zone of Sri Lanka were determined using daily rainfall records from 1981 to 2019 of five meteorological stations (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Hambantota, Puttalam and Batticaloa). Cumulative percentages of daily rainfall were plotted against the time and maximum positive and maximum negative curvatures were derived as the commencement and termination dates of the season. A Gaussian model was fitted on the cumulative distribution curve in order to remove limitations in deriving maximum positive and maximum negative curvatures. The difference between commencement and termination dates were taken as the length of the growing season. Results disclosed that there is a considerable inter-annual variation of commencement and termination dates and the length of the Maha season. Mean commencement and termination dates fall in the standard week 44.04±2.61 (end of October) and 5.10±4.20 (1st week of February). The average seasonal length is 13.7±4.24 weeks. Terminating date acts as the key determinant of the seasonal length. Any significant (p > 0.05) trend could not be observed for commencement, termination and length of the season for the analyzed period in any of the locations. It can be concluded that cumulative distribution of rainy days can be successfully used to determine commencement and termination dates of the Maha season over the dry zone of Sri Lanka where a single peak rainy period is available. However, the method needs modifications, when it applies in wet zone of the country where bimodal rainfall pattern is prominent.
Association of accumulated number of underweight with occurrence of tuberculosis
Authors: Park Ga Eun , Ki Hyun Kyun , Eun Yeonghee , Han Kyungdo , Kim Hyungjin
Published: November 2021

Underweight might be a risk factor of tuberculosis (TB), but the association between duration of underweight and occurrence of TB is inconclusive. The objective of this study was to determine whether there is a difference in occurrence of TB according to the cumulative number of underweight in an intermediate TB burden country. The National Health Insurance database was used. Eligible subjects were individuals without history of TB before 2006, and who underwent national health examination between January 2009 and 31 December 2010. Included individuals in the analysis were followed until 31 December 2017. Accumulated number of underweight was defined as the number of times recorded as underweight during the national health examination over four consecutive years. The primary outcome of the study was newly diagnosed TB according to accumulated number of underweight. Among a study population of 2,396,434, TB was identified in 9,322 (3.89%) cases. A high accumulated number of underweight and low body mass index (BMI) level were significantly associated with occurrence of TB. This association remained consistent after adjusting for demographic factors and underlying diseases. In stratified analysis based on age, sex, diabetes (DM), hypertension (HTN), and waist circumference (WC) in metabolic syndrome (MS), the accumulated number of underweight was related consistently to occurrence of TB. A high accumulated number of underweight was associated with increased risk of TB.
THE INFLUENCE OF MICROALLOYING WITH BORON ON PROPERTIES OF AUSTENITE STAINLESS STEEL X8CRNIS18-9
Authors:   Institute Kemal Kapetanovic, University of Zenica., Mujagic Dervis , Imamovic Aida ,   Faculty of Metallurgy and Technology, University of Zenica., Hadzalic Mustafa ,   Institute Kemal Kapetanovic, University of Zenica.
Published: November 2021

More recently a modified stainless steels have been used to produce various structural elements that work in complex operating conditions. Stainless steel X8CrNiS18-9 (standard EN 10088-3: 2005) is the most commonly used austenitic stainless steel due to its good machinability. This steel has high mechanical and working properties thanks to a complex alloying, primarily with the elements such as chromium and nickel. The content of sulphur present in the steel from 0.15 to 0.35% improves machinability. However, while sulphur improves machinability at the same time decreases the mechanical properties particularly toughness. The addition of sulphur, which is the cheapest available additive for free machining, will impair not only the transverse strength and toughness, but also the corrosion resistance.The aim of this work is to determine the influence of microalloying with boron on the machinability, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties the mentioned steel, but alsoto determine the effect of microalloying with boron on above steel, which is already microalloyed with zirconium, tellurium, or both elements (zirconium and tellurium) due to modification of non-metallic inclusions and improvement of properties.
THE STAMP TECHNIQUE FOR DIRECT COMPOSITE RESTORATIONS
Authors:   Resident in the Conjoint Prosthodontics and Occclusodontics Department, School of Dentistry, Hassan II University of Casablanca- Morocco., Zahra Amessegher Fatima , Andoh Abderrahmane ,   Head of the Department of Conjoint Prosthetics and Occlusodontics, School of Dentistry, Hassan II University of Casablanca- Morocco., Dhaimy Said ,   University Professor, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Hassan II University of Casablanca- Morocco., EL Merini Hafsa ,   Head of the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Hassan II University of Casablanca- Morocco.
Published: November 2021

Intoduction: A high level of aestheticscanonlybeachieved by refiningold techniques and introducing new ones. One of the mostrecent techniques is the stamptechnique.Thisis a relatively new methodthat manages to restore the occlusal anatomyalmostperfectly. Althoughitispractical, it has been adopted by only a smallpercentage of practitioners. Methods:This technique wasused on two patients with occlusal caries of differentseverity, whichallowed for an estheticfillingwith a close approximation of the natural dental anatomy. Results:An estheticrestorationwithoutretouching andwithoutoverbiteallowing a hormonal integration in the occlusion. Discussion:This isbecausemanualrestoration in esthetic direct composite is a technique thatrequiresskill and finesse and finishingthatis essential for the longevity of the restoration. With the buffer technique the overall time isreduced and the degree of porosity in the restorationisconsiderablyreduced. The purpose of this article is to clarifythis technique, to discussits limitations and indications as to illustrateitsprotocolthrough a clinical case.
ANATOMOCLINICAL CONFRONTATION BETWEEN MELANOMA, SOLAR LENTIGO AND SEBORRHEIC KERATOSIS: A CASE REPORT
Authors:   Department of Plastic Surgery, Burn Center Tangier Tetouan Al Hoceima Teaching Hospital, Morocco., Adil Dehhaze , Nour El Imane Ahmar-Rass ,   Department of Plastic Surgery, Burn Center Tangier Tetouan Al Hoceima Teaching Hospital, Morocco., Issam Diher ,   Department of Plastic Surgery, Burn Center Tangier Tetouan Al Hoceima Teaching Hospital, Morocco., Othmane Taybi ,   Department of Plastic Surgery, Burn Center Tangier Tetouan Al Hoceima Teaching Hospital, Morocco., Rim Labbaci ,   Department of Plastic Surgery, Burn Center Tangier Tetouan Al Hoceima Teaching Hospital, Morocco., Nada-Imane Daghouri ,   Department of Plastic Surgery, Burn Center Tangier Tetouan Al Hoceima Teaching Hospital, Morocco.
Published: November 2021

The primary diagnosis in case of a rapidly developing facipigmented lesion in an elderly patient is Dubreuilhs melanoma . This case report is highlighting the issue of anatomoclinical confrontation between a clinically suspected melanoma and a pathologically confirmed solar lentigo and seborrheic keratosis.
Measuring the antecedents of turnover intentions: Perspectives of private healthcare employees in a less-developed economy
Authors: Kwarteng Owusu Victor , Gregar Ales
Published: November 2021

This study sets out to investigate the antecedents of turnover intentions, using the private healthcare employees in an emerging economy (Ghana) as a benchmark. Even though myriad studies have been conducted on the aforementioned topic, yet, there are scant investigations on how employees of private healthcare institutions relate towards turnover intentions, specifically in a developing economy context. Therefore, this study draws on extant literature and subsequently proposes a hypothetical argument on the effect of training satisfaction, benefits and incentives on employee turnover intentions as well as resistance to change while establishing the nexus between turnover intentions and resistance to change. Both paper and web-based (online) questionnaires were gauged from employees of private healthcare organizations in Ghana. Data were analyzed by partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) on a sample of 544 employees of private healthcare institutions. The findings indicate that training satisfaction, benefits and incentives have a positive impact on an employee’s turnover intentions. Moreover, employee’s resistance to change is influenced by both training satisfaction and benefits and incentives. Further, the investigation established that employee’s resistance to change influences employee turnover intentions. The thoughtful mechanisms of how the running of private healthcare institutions in Ghana can be enhanced are expanded by the empirical results obtained through how employees can be satisfied by training and the application of rewards to reduce turnover. Moreover, administrators of private healthcare organizations are forewarned of the implications of employees’ resistance to change and its effect on employee turnover intentions. Acknowledgment This study was supported by Tomas Bata University in Zlín, through IGA/FaME/2020/003 “Training and development programs and the consequence on employee’s commitment, satisfaction and organizational performance: analysis from Czech public service sector”.