bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De novo sequencing of the transcriptome reveals regulators of the floral transition in Fargesia macclureana (Poaceae)
Authors: Li Ying , Zhang Chunxia , Yang Kebin , Shi Jingjing , Ding Yulong , Gao Zhimin
Published: January 2020

Background: Fargesia macclureana (Poaceae) is a woody bamboo species found on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) approximately 2,000 ~ 3,800 m above sea level. It rarely blossoms in the QTP, but it flowered 20 days after growing in our lab, which is in a low-altitude area outside the QTP. To date, little is known regarding the molecular mechanism of bamboo flowering, and no studies of flowering have been conducted on wild bamboo plants growing in extreme environments. Here, we report the first de novo transcriptome sequence for F. macclureana to investigate the putative mechanisms underlying the flowering time control used by F. macclureana to adapt to its environment.
Results: Illumina deep sequencing of the F. macclureana transcriptome generated 140.94 Gb of data, assembled into 99,056 unigenes. A comprehensive analysis of the broadly, specifically and differentially expressed unigenes (BEUs, SEUs and DEUs) indicated that they were mostly involved in metabolism and signal transduction, as well as DNA repair and plant-pathogen interactions, which may be of adaptive importance. In addition, comparison analysis between non-flowering and flowering tissues revealed that expressions of FmFT and FmHd3a, two putative F. macclureana orthologs, were differently regulated in NF- vs F- leaves, and carbohydrate metabolism and signal transduction were two major KEGG pathways that DEUs were enriched in. Finally, we detected 9,296 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) that may be useful for further molecular marker-assisted breeding.
Conclusions: F. macclureana may have evolved specific reproductive strategies for flowering-related pathways in response to photoperiodic cues to ensure long vegetation growing period. Our findings will provide new insights to future investigations into the mechanisms of flowering time control and adaptive evolution in plants growing at high altitudes.
ClpP participates in stress tolerance, biofilm formation, antimicrobial tolerance, and virulence of Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Zheng Jinxin , Wu Yang , Lin Zhiwei , Wang Guangfu , Jiang Sibo , Sun Xiang , Tu Haopeng , Yu Zhi-jian , Qu Di
Published: January 2020

Background ClpP is important for bacterial growth and plays an indispensable role in cellular protein quality control systems by refolding or degrading damaged proteins, but the physiological significance of ClpP in Enterococcus faecalis remains obscure. A clpP deletion mutant (△ clpP ) was constructed using the E. faecalis OG1RF strain to clarify the effect of ClpP on E. faecalis. The global abundance of proteins was determined by a mass spectrometer with tandem mass tag labeling.Results The Δ clpP mutant strain showed impaired growth at 20°C or 45°C at 5% NaCl or 2 mM H 2 O 2 . The number of surviving Δ clpP mutants decreased after exposure to the high concentration (50× minimal inhibitory concentration) of linezolid or minocycline for 96 h. The Δ clpP mutant strain also demonstrated decreased biofilm formation but increased virulence in a Galleria mellonella model. The mass spectrometry proteomics data indicated that the abundances of 135 proteins changed (111 increased, 24 decreased) in the Δ clpP mutant strain. Among those, the abundances of stress response or virulence relating proteins: FsrA response regulator, gelatinase GelE, regulatory protein Spx ( spxA ), heat-inducible transcription repressor HrcA, transcriptional regulator CtsR, ATPase/chaperone ClpC, acetyl esterase/lipase, and chaperonin GroEL increased in the Δ clpP mutant strain; however, the abundances of ribosomal protein L4/L1 family protein ( rplD ), ribosomal protein L7/L12 ( rplL2 ), 50S ribosomal protein L13 ( rplM ), L18 ( rplR ), L20 ( rplT ), 30S ribosomal protein S14 ( rpsN2 ) and S18 ( rpsR ) all decreased. The abundances of biofilm formation-related adapter protein MecA increased, while the abundances of dihydroorotase ( pyrC ), orotate phosphoribosyltransferase ( pyrE ), and orotidine-5'-phosphate decarboxylase ( pyrF ) all decreased in the Δ clpP mutant strain.Conclusion The present study demonstrates that ClpP participates in stress tolerance, biofilm formation, antimicrobial tolerance, and virulence of E. faecalis.
Quantitative Comparison of Two-dimensional and Three-dimensional Strain Measurement Using MRI Feature Tracking in Repair Fontan Patients and Normal Child Volunteers
Authors: Hu Liwei , Wang Qian , Gregory Barton P , Ouyang RongZhen , Sun Aimin , Guo Chen , Han Tongtong , Zhong Yumin
Published: January 2020

Purpose
The accuracy of 2D and 3D strain analyses was evaluated by comparing strain and cardiac function parameters in Fontan repair patients and normal child volunteers.
Methods
We retrospectively enrolled 32 patients with Fontan circulation and 32 child volunteers who had undergone clinical cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) assessment of the dominant ventricle with a 1.5-Tesla MRI scanner. Global and regional strain (2D and 3D) of the dominant ventricle in both groups was assessed using CMR feature-tracking. Correlations between cardiac function and strain data were assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient values. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CoV) were determined to evaluate repeatability and agreement.
Results: The 2D GLS showed significant differences between the Fontan repair patients and volunteers (-16.49 ± 5.00 vs. -19.49 ± 2.03; p = 0.002). The 2D GRS and 2D GCS showed no significant differences between two groups. 2D GRS: 38.96 ± 14.48 vs. 37.46 ± 7.77; 2D GCS: -17.64 ± 5.00 vs. -16.89 ± 2.96, respectively; p > 0.05). The 3D global radial strain (GRS), global circumferential strain (GCS), and global longitudinal strain (GLS) showed significant differences between the Fontan repair patients and volunteers (3D GRS: 36.35 ± 16.72 vs. 44.96 ± 9.98; 3D GLS: -8.86 ± 6.84 vs. -13.67 ± 2.44; 3D GCS: -13.70 ± 7.84 vs. -18.01 ± 1.78; p < 0.05, respectively). The ejection fraction (EF) and 3D GCS were significantly associated (r = -0.491, p = 0.004). The 3D GCS showed correlations with the indexed end-diastolic volume (EDV) (r = 0.523, p = 0.002) and indexed end-systolic volume (ESV) (r = 0.602, p < 0.001). 3D strain showed good reproducibility, with GCS showing the best inter-observer agreement (ICC=0.87 and CoV=5.15), followed by GLS (ICC=0.84 and CoV=5.36).
Conclusion:3D GCS is feasible, highly reproducible, and strongly correlated with conventional cardiac function measures. 3D GCS assessments may be useful for monitoring abnormal myocardial motion in patients with Fontan circulation.

Keywords Strain; Feature tracking; Fontan operation; Pediatric
Effect of Continuation of Antiplatelet Therapy on Survival in Patients Receiving Physician Home Visits
Authors: Osugi Yasuhiro , Ino Teruo , Kobayashi Daiki , Iwata Mitzunaga , Asai Kanici
Published: January 2020

Background: Little is known about the effects of continued antiplatelet therapy in patients who receive physician home visits. This study aimed to evaluate the association of survival with the continuation of antiplatelet drugs in patients who received physician home visits.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a teaching hospital in Toyota, Japan, from April 2015 to October 2018. All patients who received home visits by physicians from the department of Family Medicine of the hospital were included. The primary outcome was the difference in all-cause mortality between patients who were taking antiplatelet drugs and those who were not. The Cox proportional hazards model was applied, adjusted for the patient’s demographic features, activities of daily living, comorbidities, and primary disease requiring home care.
Results: A total of 815 patients were included, of whom 61 received antiplatelet drugs (n = 42 for aspirin, n = 17 for clopidogrel, and n = 8 for cilostazol) and 772 received no antiplatelet drugs. The mean age of the patients was 78.3 years, 409 (49.1%) were male, and 314 (37.7%) had end-stage cancer. During a median follow-up period of 120 days (interquartile range, 29–364), 54.3% of the patients died. Compared with patients not taking antiplatelet drugs, patients taking antiplatelet drugs had a better outcome (p < 0.01, log-rank test) and a significantly lower hazard ratio (0.34; 95% confidence interval, 0.17–0.65; Cox proportional hazards regression).
Conclusions: The continuous prescription of antiplatelet drugs may have beneficial effects on mortality among patients who receive physician home visits.
Acceptability of Internet-based interventions for problem gambling: a qualitative study of focus groups with clients and clinicians
Authors: Sanchez Sherald , Jindani Farah , Shi Jing , Maas Mark van der , Hagopian Sylvia , Murray Robert , Turner Nigel
Published: January 2020

Background Although Internet-based interventions (IBIs) have been around for two decades, uptake has been slow. Increasing the acceptability of IBIs among end users may increase uptake. In this study, we explored the factors that shape acceptability of IBIs for problem gambling from the perspective of clients and clinicians. Findings from this qualitative study of focus groups informed the design and implementation of an IBI for problem gambling.Methods Using a semi-structured interview guide, we conducted three focus groups with clients experiencing gambling problems (total n = 13) and two with clinicians providing problem gambling treatment (total n = 21). Focus groups were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a two-part inductive-deductive approach to thematic analysis.Results Although both user groups reported similar experiences, each group also had unique concerns. Clinician perspectives were more homogeneous reflective of healthcare professionals sharing the same practice and values. Clinicians were more concerned about issues relating to the dissemination of IBIs into clinical settings, including the development of policies and protocols and the implications of IBIs on the therapeutic relationship. In comparison, client narratives were more heterogeneous descriptive of diverse experiences and individual preferences, such as the availability of services on a 24-hour basis. There was consensus among clients and clinicians on common factors influencing acceptability: access, usability, high quality technology, privacy and security, and the value of professional guidance.Conclusions Acceptability is an important factor in the overall effectiveness of IBIs. Gaining an understanding of how end users perceive IBIs and why they choose to use IBIs can be instrumental in the successful and meaningful design, implementation, and evaluation of IBIs.
Displacement in root apex and changes in incisor inclination affect alveolar bone remodeling in adult bimaxillary protrusion patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Mao Huimin , Yang Andi , Pan Yue , Li Houxuan , lei lang
Published: January 2020

Background: Periodontal health is of great concern for periodontists and orthodontists in the inter-disciplinary management of patients with bimaxillary protrusion. The aim of present study is to investigate changes in the alveolar bone in the maxillary incisor region and to explore its relationship with displacement of root apex as well as changes in the inclination of maxillary incisors during incisor retraction. Methods: Samples in this retrospective study consisted of 38 patients with bimaxillary protrusion. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images was taken before(T0) and after (T1) treatment. Alveolar bone thickness (ABT), height (ABH) and area (ABA) were utilized to evaluate changes in the alveolar bone, while incisor inclination and apex displacement were used to assess changes in the position of maxillary central and lateral incisors. Correlations between alveolar bone remodeling and apex displacement as well as changes in the inclination were investigated. Results: The labial ABT of central and lateral incisors at the mid-root third was increased. In contrast, the palatal ABT at crestal, mid-root and apical third level were consistently decreased. ABH was not altered on the labial side, while significantly decreased on the palatal side. ABA was not significantly increased on the labial side, but significantly decreased on the palatal side, leading to a significantly reduced total ABA. Orthodontic treatment significantly reduced inclination of upper incisors. Changes in the amount (T1-T0) of ABA was remarkably correlated with apex displacement and changes of inclination (T1-T0); in addition, using the multivariate linear regression analysis, changes of ABA on the palatal side (T1-T0) can be described by following equation: Changes of palatal ABA (T1-T0) = -3.258- 0.139× changes of inclination (T1-T0) + 2.533×apex displacement (T1-T0). Conclusions: Retraction of incisors with palatal apex displacement reduced periodontal bone support on the palatal side. An equation that incorporated the displacement of root apex and change in the incisor inclination may enable periodontist-orthodontist interdisciplinary coordination in assessing treatment risks and developing an individualized treatment plan for adult patients with bimaxillary protrusion.
Spatio-temporal distribution and associated factors of home delivery in Ethiopia. Fruther multilevel and spatial analysis of Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys 2005 - 2016
Authors: Tadesse Zemenu Tessema , Tiruneh Sofonyas Abebaw
Published: January 2020

Background: Globally, between 2012 -2017 80% of live births occurred at health facilities assisted by skilled health personnel. In Ethiopia, in 2016 only 26% of live births attended by skilled health personal. The aim of this study was to assess the spatial patterns and associated factors of home delivery in Ethiopia using 2005 to 2016 Ethiopian Demgraphic and Health Surveys. Method: A total of 33 482 women who gave live birth in the five years preceding each survey were included for this study. ArcGIS version 10.7 software was used to visualize spatial distribution of home delivery. The Bernoulli model was applied using Kilduff SaTScan version 9.6 software to identify significant purely spatial clusters for home delivery in Ethiopia. Multilevel logistic regression model were fitted to identify factors associated with home delivery. A p-value < 0.05 was taken to declare statistically significant predictors. Result: Home delivery was declined from 94.78% in 2005 , 90.05% in 2011, and 73.44% in 2016 in Ethiopia. Among the three surveys, consistently high clustering of home delivery was observed in Amhara and Southern Nations Nationalities and People’s (SNNPR) Regions of Ethiopia. In spatial scan statistics analysis, a total of 128 clusters (RR= 1.04, P-value < 0.001) in 2005, and 90 clusters (RR = 1.11, P-value < 0.001) in 2011, and 55 clusters (RR = 1.29, P-value < 0.001) in 2016 significant primary clusters were identified. Educational status of women and husband, religion, distance to the health facility, mobile access, antenatal care visit (ANC), birth order, parity, wealth index, residence, and region were statistically associated with home delivery. Conclusion: The spatial distribution of home delivery among the three consecutive surveys were non-random in Ethiopia. Educational status of women and husband, religion, distance to the health facility, wealth index, residence, parity, mobile access, Region, and antenatal care visit were significant predictors of home delivery in Ethiopia. Therefore, an intervention needs to improve the coverage of ANC, and health care facilities. Ministry of health and other stakeholders should give special attention women live in Amhara and (SNNPR) states of Ethiopia. Key Words: Home delivery, EDHS, Spatial Distribution, Ethiopia.
Preoperative clinical factors and visual outcomes following orbital decompression with dysthyroid optic neuropathy
Authors: Tagami Mizuki , Honda Shigeru , Azumi Atsushi
Published: January 2020

Purpose: To investigate preoperative clinical factors and visual outcomes of Japanese patients with dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) after urgent orbital decompression.
Methods: This retrospective, observational case series study investigated 44 patients who exhibited several preoperative clinical factors that might be associated with the need for urgent orbital decompression due to DON. Additionally, the visual acuity of DON patients was compared between the patients preoperatively and at 1 and 6 months postoperatively.
Results: All 44 patients received steroid and with or without radiation therapy, with 27 patients able to avoid undergoing urgent surgery. However, the remaining 17 patients required urgent orbital decompression following a lack of response to the therapy. None of the patients who initially avoided surgery required additional surgery for DON. Factors significantly associated with the need for urgent orbital decompression surgery included: female gender, older age, long disease duration, unilateral significant DON, history of resistance to pulsed steroid therapy, unstable thyroid function, high TRAb(Thyrotrophin receptor antibody )value, poor visual acuity, presence of central diplopia, and presence of corneal problems ( P <0.05 each). The results also showed that postoperative visual outcomes of surgery for DON were acceptable.
Conclusion: This study revealed several preoperative clinical factors for DON that appear to be associated with the need for urgent orbital decompression surgery in Japanese patients.
Factor structure and measurement invariance of the Problematic Mobile Phone Use Questionnaire-Short Version across gender in Chinese adolescents and young adults
Authors: Wang YingYing , Long Jiang , Liu YueHeng , Liu TieQiao , Billieux Joël
Published: January 2020

Background Problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) has become an international public health issue, particularly in adolescents and young adults. The Problematic Mobile Phone Use Questionnaire-Short Version (PMPUQ-SV) is a validated instrument that measures multiple aspects of PMPU. The current study aimed to test the psychometric characteristics of a Chinese adaption of the PMPUQ-SV and examine its measurement invariance across gender. Methods A total of 2086 participants were recruited form nine schools (six undergraduate colleges and three vocational colleges) through an online platform. Measures included socio-demographic variables, patterns of mobile phone use, the Chinese version of the PMPUQ-SV (C-PMPUQ-SV), the Chinese version of the Smartphone Addiction Proneness Scale, and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21. Results Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses conducted in two independent subsamples confirmed that the postulated dimensions fit the data well. Four items, judged as either outdated or not adapted to the Chinese context, performed poorly and were removed, resulting in a shorter 11-item scale. Convergent validity was established through meaningful correlations between emotional symptoms and the C-PMPUQ-SV and addictive smartphone use. Additional measurement invariance analyses showed that the scale performed largely similarly in male and female participants. Conclusions The present study demonstrated that the C-PMPUQ-SV is an adequate instrument to study various types of PMPU in Chinese adolescents and young adults. The updated 11-item scale shortens the evaluation time and is adapted to assess contemporary smartphone use.
Distinct Actions of the Fermented Beverage Kefir on Host Behaviour, Immunity and Microbiome Gut-Brain Modules in the Mouse
Authors: de Wouw Marcel van , Walsh Aaron M. , Crispie Fiona , Leuven Lucas van , Lyte Joshua M. , Boehme Marcus , Clarke Gerard , Dinan Timothy G. , Cotter Paul D. , Cryan John
Published: January 2020

Background Mounting evidence suggests a role for the gut microbiota in modulating brain physiology and behaviour through bi-directional communication along the gut-brain axis. As such, the gut microbiota represents a potential therapeutic target for influencing centrally-mediated events and host behaviour. It is thus notable that the fermented milk beverage kefir has recently been shown to modulate the composition of the gut microbiota in mice. It is unclear whether kefirs have differential effects on microbiota-gut-brain axis and whether they can modulate host behaviour per se.Methods To address this, two distinct kefirs (Fr1 and UK4) or unfermented milk control were administered to mice that underwent a battery of tests to characterise their behavioural phenotype. In addition, shotgun metagenomic sequencing of ileal, cecal and faecal matter was performed, as was faecal metabolome analysis. Finally, systemic immunity measures and gut serotonin levels were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA followed by Dunnett's post hoc test or Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Mann-Whitney U test.Results Fr1 ameliorated the stress-induced decrease in serotonergic signalling in the colon and reward-seeking behaviour in the saccharin preference test. On the other hand, UK4 decreased repetitive behaviour and ameliorated stress-induced deficits in reward-seeking behaviour. Furthermore, UK4 impaired long-term spatial learning, yet increased fear-dependent contextual memory. In the peripheral immune system, UK4 increased the prevalence of Treg cells and interleukin 10 levels, whereas Fr1 ameliorated the milk gavage stress-induced elevation in neutrophil levels and CXCL1 levels. Analysis of the gut microbiota revealed that both kefirs significantly changed the composition and functional capacity of the host microbiota, where specific bacterial species were changed in a kefir-dependent manner. Furthermore, both kefirs increased the capacity of the gut microbiota to produce GABA, which was linked to an increased prevalence in Lactobacillus reuteri.Conclusions Altogether, these data show that kefir can signal through the microbiota-gut-immune-brain axis and modulate host behaviour. In addition, different kefirs may direct the microbiota toward distinct immunological and behavioural modulatory effects. These results indicate that kefir can positively modulate the microbiota-gut-brain axis and support the broadening of the definition of psychobiotic to include fermented foods such as kefir.
Effects of Robot Viscous Forces on Arm Movements in Chronic Stroke Survivors: A Randomized Crossover Study
Authors: Majeed Yazan Abdel , Awadalla Saria , Patton James
Published: January 2020

Background Our previous work showed that speed is linked to the ability to recover in chronic stroke survivors. Patients moving faster on the first day of a three-week study had greater improvements on the Wolf Motor Function Test. Methods We examined the effects of three candidate speed-modifying fields in a crossover design: negative viscosity, positive viscosity, and a "breakthrough" force that vanishes after speed exceeds an individualized threshold. Results Negative viscosity resulted in a significant speed increase when it was on. No lasting after effects on movement speed were observed from any of these treatments, however, training with negative viscosity led to significant improvements in movement accuracy and smoothness. Conclusions Our results suggest that negative viscosity could be used as a treatment to augment the training process while still allowing patients to make their own volitional motions in practice. Trial registration This study was approved by the Institutional Review Boards at Northwestern University (STU00206579) and the University of Illinois at Chicago (2018-1251).
The neuron pioneering the ventral nerve cord does not follow the common pathway of neurogenesis in the polychaete Malacoceros fuliginosus
Authors: Kumar Suman , Tumu Sharat Chandra , Helm Conrad , Hausen Harald
Published: January 2020

Background: Nervous system development is an interplay of many processes: the formation of individual neurons which depends on whole-body and local patterning processes and the coordinated growth of neurites and synapse formation. While knowledge of neural patterning in several animal groups is increasing, data on pioneer neurons that create the early axonal scaffold are scarce. Here we studied the early steps of nervous system development in the annelid Malacoceros fuliginosus.Results: We find that the first pioneer neurons are already in place in the anterior and posterior pole when broad neurogenesis is just starting. They do not express serotonin or FMRFamide which are commonly used markers in studies on nervous system architecture. A single posterior neuron prefigures the main course of the ventral nerve cord and this mode is probably ancestral for majority of annelids. Notably, none of the studied sox and proneural genes, which are commonly involved in the generation of neurons, is expressed by this important neuron. The only transcription factor we found expressed is Brn3, which likely acts on a low hierarchical level.Conclusions: We propose that the annelid ventral nerve cord pioneer neuron follows a highly divergent course of neurogenesis. The lack of Sox and proneural transcription factors, which are usually under control of patterning cell-extrinsic factors suggest a major influence of inherited cell-intrinsic properties on the development of this cell. Though cell-autonomous specification is generally an important pathway in the early development of spirally cleaving animals, its relevance for nervous system development is poorly understood. Our data suggest that closer investigation of the specification of pioneer neurons in animals featuring spiral cleavage will be highly informative to obtain a better understanding of how nervous systems form and evolve.
The puzzling mitochondrial phylogeography of the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), the commercially most important insect protein species
Authors: Ståhls Gunilla , Meier Rudolf , Sandrock Christoph , Hauser Martin , Zorić Ljiljana Šašić , Laiho Elina , Aracil Andrea , Doderović Jovana , Badenhorst Rozane , Unadirekkul Phira , Adom Nur Arina Binte Mohd , Wein Leo , Richards Cameron , Tomberlin Jeffery K. , Rojo Santos , Veselić Sanja , Parviainen Tuure
Published: January 2020

Background The black soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae, Hermetia illucens) is renowned for bioconversion ability of organic waste, and is the worldwide most widely used source of insect protein. Despite varying extensively in morphology, it is widely assumed that all black soldier flies belong to the same species, Hermetia illucens. We here use genetic data of 424 rearing culture and wild caught fly samples from 38 countries and six biogeographic regions to test this assumption based on data for three genes (mitochondrial COI, nuclear ITS2 & 28S rDNA). Results Our study reveals a surprisingly high level of intraspecific genetic diversity for the mitochondrial COI gene (divergences up to 4.9%). This level of variability is often associated with the presence of multiple species, but tested nuclear ITS2 and 28S rDNA markers are invariant and fly strain hybridization experiments under laboratory conditions revealed reproductive compatibility. COI haplotype diversity is not only very high in all biogeographic regions (54 distinct haplotypes in total), but also in breeding facilities and research centers from six continents (10 haplotypes: divergences up to 4.3%). The high genetic diversity in fly-breeding facilities is mostly likely explained by many independent acquisitions of cultures via sharing and/or establishing new colonies from wild-caught flies. However, explaining the observed high diversity in most biogeographic regions is difficult. The origin of the species is considered to be New World (32 distinct haplotypes) and one would expect severely reduced genetic diversity in the putatively non-native populations in the remaining biogeographic regions. But distinct, private haplotypes are also known from the Australasian (N=2), Oriental (N=4), and the Palearctic (N=5) populations. We review museum specimen records and conclude that the evidence for introductions is strong for the Western Palearctic and the Afrotropical regions which lack distinct, private haplotypes. Conclusions Based on the results of this paper, we urge the black soldier fly community to apply molecular characterization (genotyping) of the fly strains used in artificial fly-breeding and to share this data in research publications and when sharing cultures. In addition, fast-evolving nuclear markers should be used to reconstruct the recent invasion history of the species.
Selection shapes synonymous stop codon use in mammals
Authors: Seoighe Cathal , Kiniry Stephen J. , Peters Andrew , Baranov Pavel V. , Yang Haixuan
Published: January 2020

Phylogenetic models of the evolution of protein-coding sequences can provide insights into the selection pressures that have shaped them. In the application of these models synonymous nucleotide substitutions, which do not alter the encoded amino acid, are often assumed to have limited functional consequences and used as a proxy for the neutral rate of evolution. The ratio of nonsynonymous to synonymous substitution rates is then used to categorize the selective regime that applies to the protein (e.g. purifying selection, neutral evolution, diversifying selection). Here, we extend the Muse \& Gaut model of codon evolution to explore the extent of purifying selection acting on substitutions between synonymous stop codons.
Using a large collection of coding sequence alignments we estimate that a high proportion (approximately 57%) of mammalian genes are affected by selection acting on stop codon preference. This proportion varies substantially by codon, with UGA stop codons far more likely to be conserved. Genes with evidence of selection acting on synonymous stop codons have distinctive characteristics, compared to unconserved genes with the same stop codon, including longer 3' UTRs and shorter mRNA half-life. The coding regions of these genes are also much more likely to be under strong purifying selection pressure.
Our results suggest that the preference for UGA stop codons found in many multicellular eukaryotes is selective rather than mutational in origin.
Sex-specific Prevalence of coronary heart disease among Tehranian adult population across different glycemic status: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study, 2008-2011
Authors: Moazzeni Seyyed Saeed , Ghafelehbashi Hamidreza , Hasheminia Mitra , Parizadeh Donna , Ghanbarian Arash , Azizi Freidoun , Hadaegh Farzad
Published: January 2020

Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common causes of deaths and alarmingly Iranian populations had a high rank of CHD worldwide. The object of the current study is to assess the prevalence of CHD, including clinical CHD and silent myocardial infarction (MI) across different glycemic categories.Methods: This study was conducted on 7,368 Tehranian participants (Men=3312), aged ≥ 30 years from 2008 to 2011. Clinical CHD was defined as hospital records which approved by an outcome committee. Using Minnesota Code ECG classifications, silent MI was defined by appearance of major abnormal Q/QS waves (MC 1.1 or MC 1.2), or minor abnormal Q/QS waves (MC 1.3) plus major abnormal ST-T (MC 4.1, MC 4.2, MC 5.1 or MC 5.2.)Results: Among the total population, the age-standardized prevalence of CHD was 12.82% [confidence interval (CI) 95%:12.11-13.53]. The age-standardized prevalences of total CHD, clinical CHD and silent MI were 13.42% (12.33-14.5), 9.69% (8.81-10.56) and 3.73% (3.04-4.43) for men and were 12.70% (11.73-13.66), 8.56% (7.79-9.33) and 4.14% (3.50-4.78) for women, respectively. Moreover, 17.67% (13.90-21.44) of the male and 18.94% (14.59-23.30) of the female diabetic population had CHD. Specifically, the prevalence of total CHD among known and newly diagnosed diabetic populations and those with combined impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) were 19.53% (15.22-23.84), 16.12% (12.29-19.94) and 16.84% (11.85-21.83), respectively. Compared to other glycemic categories, the prevalence of silent MI was higher among those with combined IFG and IGT (6.80 (2.84-10.76)), although it didn’t reach a significant level.Conclusion: The high prevalence of CHD, especially among those suffering from both IFG and IGT and diabetic populations, necessitates urgent implementation behavioral interventions among Tehranian populations, evidence based on guidelines for clinical management of diabetic patients.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of lectin receptor-like kinase gene family in cucumber and expression profiling analysis under different treatments
Authors: Lv Duo , Wang Gang , Chen Yue , Xiong Liang-Rong , Sun Jing-Xian , Guo Chun-Li , Yu Yao , He Huan-Le , Cai Run , Pan Junsong
Published: January 2020

Background Lectin receptor-like kinases (LecRLKs) are a class of membrane proteins found in plants that are involved in diverse functions, including plant development and stress responses. Although LecRLK families have been identified in a variety of plants, a comprehensive analysis has not yet been undertaken in cucumber ( Cucumis sativus L.).Results In this study, 46 putative LecRLK genes were identified in cucumber genome, including 23 G-type, 22 L-type and 1 C-type LecRLK genes. They unequally distributed on all 7 chromosomes with a clustering trendency. Most of the genes in the cucumber LecRLK (Cs LecRLK) gene family lacked introns. In addition, there were many regulatory elements associated with phytohormone and stress on these genes’ promoters. Transcriptome data demonstrated that distinct expression patterns of CsLecRLK genes in various tissues. Furthermore, we found that each member of the CsLecRLK family had its own unique expression pattern under hormone and stress treatment by the quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis.Conclusion This study provides a better understanding of the evolution and function of LecRLK gene family in cucumber, and opens the possibility to explore the roles that LecRLK s might play in the life cycle of cucumber.
Factorial structure and short version of the Modified Fresno Test to assess the use of evidence-based practice in physiotherapists.
Authors: Silva Anderson Martins da , Padula Rosimeire Simprini
Published: January 2020

Background: The Modified Fresno Test is an adapted version for physiotherapists. So far, none of the versions of the Fresno Test were subjected to analysis of the factorial structure. Objective of the study was describe the exploratory and confirmatory factorial structure of the Modified Fresno Test adapted to the Portuguese-Brazilian and analyze the statistic feasibility for the elaboration of a short version. Methods: The questionnaire was applied in 57 physiotherapists, being 36 professionals (13 of these also professors) and 21 students of the last semester of the physiotherapy course. Exploratory Factor Analysis was performed by the method of principal components. The confirmatory factor analysis was performed by the method of maximum likelihood. The score of the answers in the test and retest was evaluated, totaling 228 observations. Reliability was assessed by means of internal consistency, using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Results: The internal consistency indicated value of 0.81 for the questions of the instrument. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test presented acceptable values (KMO=0.80). The Bartlett’s sphericity test indicated that the correlations were sufficient for the analysis. The analysis revealed the presence of 3 factors (eigenvalues > 1), which explains 60.9% of total variance of the instrument. In the confirmatory factor analysis, the second model which tested a three-factor structure provided a better fit to the data. Conclusion: The analysis showed good factorial validity and adequate internal consistency for the use of the instrument consisting of 13 questions and 3 factors. This model proved to be better than the original model. The short version consisting of 9 questions may be an appropriate alternative for use in the population of interest.
Decreased Angiogenic And Increased Apoptotic Activities Of Bone Microvascular Endothelial Cells In Patients With Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteonecrosis Of The Femoral Head
Authors: Yu Huachen , Liu Pei , Zuo Wei , Sun Xiaowei , Liu Hongzhi , Lu Feifan , Guo Wanshou , Zhang Qidong
Published: January 2020

Background: Glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is closely associated with the dysfunction of the bone microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs). The present study investigated the angiogenic and apoptotic activity of the BMECs in glucocorticoid-induced ONFH. Methods: This study enrolled a total of 12 patients, six of whom were assigned to the ONFH group whereas the other six served as the control group. The ONFH group was composed of patients with glucocorticoid-induced ONFH while the control group had femoral neck fractures. BMECs were isolated from the subchondral region of the femoral head. Cell proliferation, cell viability, tube formation assay, Transwell assay, TUNEL assay, and Western blot analysis were performed. Results: No significant differences were noticed in BMECs proliferation between the two groups. However, compared to the control, cell viability, tube formation, and migration of BMECs were significantly decreased and the number of TUNEL positive cells was markedly increased in the ONFH group. In the ONFH group, it was also noted that the amount of Bax and cleaved-caspase3 was elevated while that of Bcl-2 was reduced. Conclusion: The findings of our study revealed that BMECs obtained from the glucocorticoid-induced ONFH patients had decreased angiogenic and increased apoptotic activities, which could explain the pathogenesis and progression of glucocorticoid-induced ONFH.
A Review on Solvent-free Methods in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Zangade Sainath , Patil Pravinkumar
Published: January 2020

Most of the synthetic chemical transformation reactions involve the use of different organic solvents. Unfortunately, some of these toxic solvents are used in chemical laboratory, industry and have been considered a very serious problem for the health, safety of workers and environmental damage through pollution. The purpose of green chemistry is to provide a path that reduces or eliminates the use of such hazardous toxic solvents. Therefore, the key factor of the green synthetic approach is to utilize renewable materials, nontoxic chemical and to perform the reactions under solvent-free conditions. In this review, we have discussed most recent literature survey on applications of solvent-free techniques in organic synthesis which would offer a new opportunity to a researcher to overcome the problem of using environmental harmful solvents.
Nanotechnology-based Drug Delivery, Metabolism and Toxicity
Authors: Malaviya Pooja , Shukal Dhaval , Vasavada Abhay R.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Nanoparticles (NPs) are being used extensively owing to their increased surface area, targeted
delivery and enhanced retention. NPs have the potential to be used in many disease conditions. Despite widespread
use, their toxicity and clinical safety still remain a major concern.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to explore the metabolism and toxicological effects of nanotherapeutics.

Methods:

Comprehensive, time-bound literature search was done covering the period from 2010 till date. The primary
focus was on the metabolism of NP including their adsorption, degradation, clearance, and bio-persistence.
This review also focuses on updated investigations on NPs with respect to their toxic effects on various in vitro and
in vivo experimental models.

Results:

Nanotechnology is a thriving field of biomedical research and an efficient drug delivery system. Further
their applications are under investigation for diagnosis of disease and as medical devices.

Conclusion:

The toxicity of NPs is a major concern in the application of NPs as therapeutics. Studies addressing
metabolism, side-effects and safety of NPs are desirable to gain maximum benefits of nanotherapeutics.
New Development of Novel Berberine Derivatives against Bacteria
Authors: Jamshaid Faisal , Dai Jun , Yang Li Xi
Published: January 2020

:

Many berberine derivatives have been synthesized for their antibacterial activity in the past
years. In order to elucidate their new Structural Activity Relationship (SAR), the recently synthesized
berberine derivatives are reviewed. The newly synthesized berberine derivatives are reported in this
review with novel modifications on the berberine structure at various positions. It is hoped that this article
would help scientists to design and synthesize new berberine derivatives with high potency and a
broad spectrum of antimicrobial activities, more effectiveness and lower toxicity for improved antimicrobial
therapy. These berberine derivatives could be developed as novel antibacterial agents to treat
patients with infectious diseases, especially caused by resistant bacteria.
Development and In vitro Evaluation of Nifedipine Gel Formulations for Anorectal Applications
Authors: Bagci Nuray , Bayindir Zerrin Sezgin , Inal Ozge , Altanlar Nurten , Yuksel Nilufer
Published: January 2020

Objective:

Current study focuses on the formulation and characterization of lipophilic and
hydrophilic gel formulations of nifedipine to treat anal fissure via anodermal application.

Methods:

Lipophilic gels were prepared with Aerosil grades as gelling agents in bulk oils. Polyethylene
glycols, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and Carbopol® 974P were used as gelling agents in water and
propylene glycol for forming hydrophilic gels. The effect of repeated Freeze-Thaw Cycles (FT-C) on
microstructures of the gels was investigated by examining viscosity, rheology and textural properties.
Aerosil 200 containing lipophilic gels exhibited thixotropic behavior with plastic flow properties and
higher viscosities.

Result:

Accordingly, their compressibility and adhesiveness increased. FT-C caused notable changes in
microstructures and textural properties of the lipophilic gels excluding the formulation containing
Aerosil 200-in-isopropyl myristate. Among the hydrophilic gels, the viscosity of Carbopol® 974P gels
increased depending on the amount of polymer, triethanolamine and water; these gels featured plastic
flow without thixotropic behavior. Their compressibility and adhesiveness were higher than other gel
formulations with stable post-FT-C characteristics. The higher flux values of nifedipine were observed
from water containing Carbopol® 974P gel.

Conclusion:

The results of the stability tests showed that the Carbopol® 974P gel had a longer shelf life
than the Aerosil 200-in-isopropyl myristate gel.
Increased Prevalence of Vestibular Loss in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wei Eric X. , Oh Esther S. , Harun Aisha , Ehrenburg Matthew , Xue Qian-Li , Simonsick Eleanor , Agrawal Yuri
Published: January 2020

Background/Aims::

Recent evidence has shown that Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) patients have
reduced vestibular function relative to healthy controls. In this study, we evaluated whether patients with
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) also have reduced vestibular function relative to controls, and compared
the level of vestibular impairment between MCI and AD patients.

Methods::

Vestibular physiologic function was assessed in 77 patients (26 MCI, 51 AD) and 295
matched controls using 3 clinical vestibular tests. The association between vestibular loss and cognitive
impairment was evaluated using conditional logistic regression models.

Results::

Individuals with vestibular impairment had a 3 to 4-fold increased odds of being in the MCI vs.
control group (p-values < 0.05). MCI patients had a level of vestibular impairment that was intermediate
between controls and AD.

Conclusion::

These findings suggest a dose-response relationship between vestibular loss and cognitive
status, and support the hypothesis that vestibular loss contributes to cognitive decline.
Association of Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio with Mild Cognitive Impairment in Elderly Chinese Adults: A Case-control Study
Authors: An Peilin , Zhou Xuan , Du Yue , Zhao Jiangang , Song Aili , Liu Huan , Ma Fei , Huang Guowei
Published: January 2020

Background:

Inflammation plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of cognitive impairment
in previous studies. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a reliable measure of systemic inflammation.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between NLR and mild cognitive
impairment (MCI), and further to explore the diagnostic potential of the inflammatory markers NLR for
the diagnosis of MCI in elderly Chinese individuals.

Methods:

186 MCI subjects and 153 subjects with normal cognitive function were evaluated consecutively
in this study. Neutrophil (NEUT) count and Lymphocyte (LYM) count were measured in fasting
blood samples. The NLR was calculated by dividing the absolute NEUT count by the absolute LYM
count. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the potential association between NLR and
MCI. NLR for predicting MCI was analyzed using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve
analysis.

Results:

The NLR of MCI group was significantly higher than that of subjects with normal cognitive
function (2.39 ± 0.55 vs. 1.94 ± 0.51, P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that higher NLR
was an independent risk factor for MCI (OR: 4.549, 95% CI: 2.623-7.889, P < 0.001). ROC analysis
suggested that the optimum NLR cut-off point for MCI was 2.07 with 73.66% sensitivity, 69.28% specificity,
74.48% Positive Predictive Values (PPV) and 68.36% negative predictive values (NPV). Subjects
with NLR ≥ 2.07 showed higher risk relative to NLR < 2.07 (OR: 5.933, 95% CI: 3.467-10.155, P <
0.001).

Conclusion:

The elevated NLR is significantly associated with increased risk of MCI. In particular,
NLR level higher than the threshold of 2.07 was significantly associated with the probability of MCI.
The Impact of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Gene on Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hsieh Sun-Wung , Liu Ming-Wei , Huang Ling-Chun , Wu Meng-Ni , Yang Yuan-Han
Published: January 2020

Background:

The Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) gene has drawn attention for its possible role in regulating the degradation of β-amyloid (Aβ), yet its role in affecting the cognitive and psychiatric symptoms of Alzheimer`s Disease (AD) patients has yet to be elucidated.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate whether the ACE gene acts as a risk factor of Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) in the AD population.

Method:

The genotyping of ACE and Apolipoprotein E gene with allele ε4(APOEε4) was determined among 360s clinically diagnosed AD patients. Symptoms and severity of BPSD were evaluated annually via Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI).

Results:

At the base measurement of the first year of patient recruitment, there were no significant contributory risk factors to NPI score. In the two-year follow-up, ACE insertion polymorphism showed a significant risk (adjusted odds ratio=1.65, 95% CI=1.1- 2.5, p=0.019) of progression of NPI total score.

Conclusion:

ACE gene is involved in aggravating BPSD among AD patients.