bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Pan-Cancer Biomarkers Based on the Gene Expression Profiles of Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Ding ShiJian , Li Hao , Zhang Yu-Hang , Zhou XianChao , Feng KaiYan , Li ZhanDong , Chen Lei , Huang Tao , Cai Yu-Dong
Published: December 2021

There are many types of cancers. Although they share some hallmarks, such as proliferation and metastasis, they are still very different from many perspectives. They grow on different organ or tissues. Does each cancer have a unique gene expression pattern that makes it different from other cancer types? After the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project, there are more and more pan-cancer studies. Researchers want to get robust gene expression signature from pan-cancer patients. But there is large variance in cancer patients due to heterogeneity. To get robust results, the sample size will be too large to recruit. In this study, we tried another approach to get robust pan-cancer biomarkers by using the cell line data to reduce the variance. We applied several advanced computational methods to analyze the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) gene expression profiles which included 988 cell lines from 20 cancer types. Two feature selection methods, including Boruta, and max-relevance and min-redundancy methods, were applied to the cell line gene expression data one by one, generating a feature list. Such list was fed into incremental feature selection method, incorporating one classification algorithm, to extract biomarkers, construct optimal classifiers and decision rules. The optimal classifiers provided good performance, which can be useful tools to identify cell lines from different cancer types, whereas the biomarkers (e.g. NCKAP1, TNFRSF12A, LAMB2, FKBP9, PFN2, TOM1L1) and rules identified in this work may provide a meaningful and precise reference for differentiating multiple types of cancer and contribute to the personalized treatment of tumors.
Time-Resolved Extracellular Matrix Atlas of the Developing Human Skin Dermis
Authors: Li Mansheng , Li Xiao , Liu Binghui , Lv Luye , Wang Wenjuan , Gao Dunqin , Zhang Qiyu , Jiang Junyi , Chai Mi , Yun Zhimin , Tan Yingxia , Gong Feng , Wu Zhihong , Zhu Yunping , Ma Jie , Leng Ling
Published: December 2021

Skin aging is a physiological issue that is still relatively poorly understood. Studies have demonstrated that the dermal extracellular matrix (ECM) plays important roles in skin aging. However, the roles of the changes in ECM characteristics and the molecules that are secreted to the extracellular space and are involved in the formation of the dermal matrix from birth to old age remain unclear. To explore the way in which the ECM microenvironment supports the functions of skin development across different age groups is also poorly understood, we used a decellularization method and matrisome analysis to compare the composition, expression, and function of the dermal ECM in toddler, teenager, adult, and elderly skin. We found that the collagens, glycoproteins, proteoglycans, and regulatory factors that support skin development and interact with these core ECM proteins were differentially expressed at different ages. ECM expression markers occurring during the process of skin development were identified. In addition, our results elucidated the characteristics of ECM synthesis, response to skin development, and the features of the ECM that support epidermal stem cell growth via the basement membrane during skin aging.
Use of a Network-Based Method to Identify Latent Genes Associated with Hearing Loss in Children
Authors: Liang Feng , Fu Xin , Ding ShiJian , Li Lin
Published: December 2021

Hearing loss is a total or partial inability to hear. Approximately 5% of people worldwide experience this condition. Hearing capacity is closely related to language, social, and basic emotional development; hearing loss is particularly serious in children. The pathogenesis of childhood hearing loss remains poorly understood. Here, we sought to identify new genes potentially associated with two types of hearing loss in children: congenital deafness and otitis media. We used a network-based method incorporating a random walk with restart algorithm, as well as a protein-protein interaction framework, to identify genes potentially associated with either pathogenesis. A following screening procedure was performed and 18 and 87 genes were identified, which potentially involved in the development of congenital deafness or otitis media, respectively. These findings provide novel biomarkers for clinical screening of childhood deafness; they contribute to a genetic understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms involved.
Single-Conidium Encapsulation in Oil-in-Water Pickering Emulsions at High Encapsulation Yield
Authors: Kotliarevski Liliya , Mani Karthik Ananth , Feldbaum Reut Amar , Yaakov Noga , Belausov Eduard , Zelinger Einat , Ment Dana , Mechrez Guy
Published: December 2021

This study presents an individual encapsulation of fungal conidia in an oil-in-water Pickering emulsion at a single-conidium encapsulation yield of 44%. The single-conidium encapsulation yield was characterized by analysis of confocal microscopy micrographs. Mineral oil-in-water emulsions stabilized by amine-functionalized titania dioxide (TiO2-NH2 or titania-NH2) particles were prepared. The structure and the stability of the emulsions were investigated at different compositions by confocal microscopy and a LUMiSizer® respectively. The most stable emulsions with a droplet size suitable for single-conidium encapsulation were further studied for their individual encapsulation capabilities. The yields of individual encapsulation in the emulsions; i.e., the number of conidia that were individually encapsulated out of the total number of conidia, were characterized by confocal microscopy assay. This rapid, easy to use approach to single-conidium encapsulation, which generates a significantly high yield with eco-friendly titania-based emulsions, only requires commonly used emulsification and agitation methods.
Probing Multiscale Disorder in Pyrochlore and Related Complex Oxides in the Transmission Electron Microscope: A Review
Authors: Wardini Jenna L. , Vahidi Hasti , Guo Huiming , Bowman William J.
Published: December 2021

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and its counterpart, scanning TEM (STEM), are powerful materials characterization tools capable of probing crystal structure, composition, charge distribution, electronic structure, and bonding down to the atomic scale. Recent (S)TEM instrumentation developments such as electron beam aberration-correction as well as faster and more efficient signal detection systems have given rise to new and more powerful experimental methods, some of which (e.g., 4D-STEM, spectrum-imaging, in situ/operando (S)TEM)) facilitate the capture of high-dimensional datasets that contain spatially-resolved structural, spectroscopic, time- and/or stimulus-dependent information across the sub-angstrom to several micrometer length scale. Thus, through the variety of analysis methods available in the modern (S)TEM and its continual development towards high-dimensional data capture, it is well-suited to the challenge of characterizing isometric mixed-metal oxides such as pyrochlores, fluorites, and other complex oxides that reside on a continuum of chemical and spatial ordering. In this review, we present a suite of imaging and diffraction (S)TEM techniques that are uniquely suited to probe the many types, length-scales, and degrees of disorder in complex oxides, with a focus on disorder common to pyrochlores, fluorites and the expansive library of intermediate structures they may adopt. The application of these techniques to various complex oxides will be reviewed to demonstrate their capabilities and limitations in resolving the continuum of structural and chemical ordering in these systems.
Synthesis of Al-Based Metal-Organic Framework in Water With Caffeic Acid Ligand and NaOH as Linker Sources With Highly Efficient Anticancer Treatment
Authors: Zeraati Malihe , Rahdar Abbas , Medina Dora I. , Sargazi Ghasem
Published: December 2021

In this study, novel nanostructures of aluminum base metal-organic framework (Al-MOF) samples were synthesized using a sustainable, non-toxic, and cost-effective green synthesis route. Satureja hortensis extract was used as an effective source of linker for the development of the Al-MOF structures. The Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) spectrum confirmed the presence of characterization bonds related to the Al-MOF nanostructures synthesized by the green synthesis route. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses revealed that the sample synthesized by Na2-CA was composed of multilayers, although it was agglomerated, but it had dispersed and occurred in spherical particles, indicating active organic matter. N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms demonstrated the significant porosity of the Al-MOF samples that facilitate the high potential of these nanostructures in medical applications. The anticancer treatment of Al-MOF samples was performed with different concentrations using the MTT standard method with untreated cancer cells for 24 and 48 h periods. The results exhibited the significant anticancer properties of Al-MOF samples developed in this study when compared with other MOF samples. Thus, the development of a novel Al-MOF and its application as a natural linker can influence the anticancer treatment of the samples. According to the results, the products developed in this study can be used in more applications such as biosensors, catalysts, and novel adsorbents.
Fusion of Glutamate Dehydrogenase and Formate Dehydrogenase Yields a Bifunctional Efficient Biocatalyst for the Continuous Removal of Ammonia
Authors: Marchini Valentina , Benítez-Mateos Ana I. , Roura Padrosa David , Paradisi Francesca
Published: December 2021

A novel fusion protein has been rationally designed, combining the hexameric glutamate dehydrogenase from Clostridium symbiosum with the dimeric formate dehydrogenase from Candida boidinii. The former enzyme consumes ammonia for the reductive amination of α-ketoglutarate using NADH, while the latter biocatalyst regenerates continuously the cofactor. This enzymes fusion opens new perspectives for the detection and the removal of ammonia. The bifunctional biocatalyst has been successfully created, expressed, and then characterized. The two fused protein domains retained identical properties and catalytic activity of the individual enzymes. Additionally, the immobilization on a methacrylate resin optimized the assembly providing a reusable and stable biocatalyst. This is an example of immobilization of a fusion protein, so that efficiency and sustainability of the process are enhanced. The immobilized biocatalyst could be recycled 10 times retaining still half of the initial activity. Such preparation outperforms the co-immobilized wild-type enzymes in the conversion of 300 mM of ammonia, which could be carried out also in continuous mode.
Temporal Trends of Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction and Atrial Fibrillation: Insight From the KAMIR-NIH Registry
Authors: Lee Oh-Hyun , Kim Yongcheol , Cho Deok-Kyu , Kim Jung-Sun , Kim Byeong-Keuk , Choi Donghoon , Hong Myeong-Ki , Jeong Myung Ho , Jang Yangsoo ,   the KAMIR-NIH Investigators
Published: December 2021

Background: Triple therapy is the combination of dual antiplatelet therapy plus oral anticoagulant after stent implantation. Current guidelines recommend triple therapy for acute coronary syndrome with atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to identify temporal trends of antithrombotic therapy in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and AF.

Methods: Among 13,104 consecutive patients from the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry-National Institute of Health (KAMIR-NIH) registry, we identified 453 patients with AF after stent implantation for AMI; these patients were then divided into those who did and did not use oral anticoagulant (OAC) [OAC group (n = 71) vs. non-OAC group (n = 382), respectively].

Results: The results showed that the prevalence of AF in AMI patients was 5.4% (712/13,104). Among 453 patients, only 15.7% (71/453) were treated with OAC while dual or single antiplatelet therapy was provided for 84.7% (382/453) of patients. In patients with high stroke risk (CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥ 2), OACs were used only in 17% (69/406). Multivariate analysis revealed that female sex [odds ratio (OR) 2.11; 95% CI: 1.17–3.79], diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR 2.37; 95% CI: 1.35–4.17), prior cerebrovascular accident (CVA) (OR 4.19; 95% CI: 2–8.75), and congestive heart failure (CHF) (OR 1.89; 95% CI: 1.09–3.3) as the significant determinants of OAC use.

Conclusion: The study concluded that OAC was underused. Approximately, 15%, of AMI patients with AF undergoing PCI with stent and female gender, DM, prior CVA history, and a history of CHF or the presence of moderate to severe left ventricle systolic impairment were significant determinants of OAC use.
Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Implantation of Drug-Coated Balloon
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Zhang Xinyi , Dong Qichao , Chen Delong , Xu Yi , Jiang Jun
Published: December 2021

The drug-coated balloon (DCB) is an emerging percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) device with theoretical advantages and promising results. Recent clinical observations have demonstrated that DCB tends to have both good efficacy and a good safety profile in the treatment of in-stent restenosis (ISR) for both bare-metal and drug-eluting stents (DES), de novo coronary artery disease (CAD), and other situation, such as high bleeding risk, chronic total occlusion, and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) has become an essential medication in daily clinical practice, but the optimal duration of DAPT after the implantation of a DCB remains unknown. At the time of the first in vivo implantation of paclitaxel-DCB for the treatment of ISR in 2006, the protocol-defined DAPT duration was only 1 month. Subsequently, DAPT duration ranging from 1 to 12 months has been recommended by various trials. However, there have been no randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the optimal duration of DAPT after DCB angioplasty. Current clinical guidelines normally recommend the duration of DAPT after DCB-only angioplasty based on data from RCTs on the optimal duration of DAPT after stenting. In this review, we summarized current clinical trials on DCB-only angioplasty for different types of CADs and their stipulated durations of DAPT, and compared their clinical results such as restenosis, target lesion revascularization (TLR) and stent thrombosis event. We hope this review can assist clinicians in making reasonable decisions about the duration of DAPT after DCB implantation.
Novel Knowledge-Based Transcriptomic Profiling of Lipid Lysophosphatidylinositol-Induced Endothelial Cell Activation
Authors: Xu Keman , Shao Ying , Saaoud Fatma , Gillespie Aria , Drummer Charles , Liu Lu , Lu Yifan , Sun Yu , Xi Hang , Tükel Çagla , Pratico Domenico , Qin Xuebin , Sun Jianxin , Choi Eric T. , Jiang Xiaohua , Wang Hong , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: December 2021

To determine whether pro-inflammatory lipid lysophosphatidylinositols (LPIs) upregulate the expressions of membrane proteins for adhesion/signaling and secretory proteins in human aortic endothelial cell (HAEC) activation, we developed an EC biology knowledge-based transcriptomic formula to profile RNA-Seq data panoramically. We made the following primary findings: first, G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55), the LPI receptor, is expressed in the endothelium of both human and mouse aortas, and is significantly upregulated in hyperlipidemia; second, LPIs upregulate 43 clusters of differentiation (CD) in HAECs, promoting EC activation, innate immune trans-differentiation, and immune/inflammatory responses; 72.1% of LPI-upregulated CDs are not induced in influenza virus-, MERS-CoV virus- and herpes virus-infected human endothelial cells, which hinted the specificity of LPIs in HAEC activation; third, LPIs upregulate six types of 640 secretomic genes (SGs), namely, 216 canonical SGs, 60 caspase-1-gasdermin D (GSDMD) SGs, 117 caspase-4/11-GSDMD SGs, 40 exosome SGs, 179 Human Protein Atlas (HPA)-cytokines, and 28 HPA-chemokines, which make HAECs a large secretory organ for inflammation/immune responses and other functions; fourth, LPIs activate transcriptomic remodeling by upregulating 172 transcription factors (TFs), namely, pro-inflammatory factors NR4A3, FOS, KLF3, and HIF1A; fifth, LPIs upregulate 152 nuclear DNA-encoded mitochondrial (mitoCarta) genes, which alter mitochondrial mechanisms and functions, such as mitochondrial organization, respiration, translation, and transport; sixth, LPIs activate reactive oxygen species (ROS) mechanism by upregulating 18 ROS regulators; finally, utilizing the Cytoscape software, we found that three mechanisms, namely, LPI-upregulated TFs, mitoCarta genes, and ROS regulators, are integrated to promote HAEC activation. Our results provide novel insights into aortic EC activation, formulate an EC biology knowledge-based transcriptomic profile strategy, and identify new targets for the development of therapeutics for cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory conditions, immune diseases, organ transplantation, aging, and cancers.
Exosomes and Exosomal Non-coding RNAs Are Novel Promises for the Mechanism-Based Diagnosis and Treatments of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Chen Chaofeng , Chen Qingxing , Cheng Kuan , Zou Tian , Pang Yang , Ling Yunlong , Xu Ye , Zhu Wenqing
Published: December 2021

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia worldwide and has a significant impact on human health and substantial costs. Currently, there is a lack of accurate biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of AF. Moreover, the long-term efficacy of the catheter ablation in the AF is unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is necessary to explore new biomarkers and treatment strategies for the mechanism-based AF. Exosomes are nano-sized biovesicles released by nearly all types of cells. Since the AF would be linked to the changes of the atrial cells and their microenvironment, and the AF would strictly influence the exosomal non-coding RNAs (exo-ncRNAs) expression, which makes them as attractive diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for the AF. Simultaneously, the exo-ncRNAs have been found to play an important role in the mechanisms of the AF and have potential therapeutic prospects. Although the role of the exo-ncRNAs in the AF is being actively investigated, the evidence is still limited. Furthermore, there is a lack of consensus regarding the most appropriate approach for exosome isolation and characterization. In this article, we reviewed the new methodologies available for exosomes biogenesis, isolation, and characterization, and then discussed the mechanism of the AF and various levels and types of exosomes relevant to the AF, with the special emphasis on the exo-ncRNAs in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of the mechanism-based AF.
Regional Morpho-Kinematic Inventory of Slope Movements in Northern Norway
Authors: Rouyet Line , Lilleøren Karianne Staalesen , Böhme Martina , Vick Louise Mary , Delaloye Reynald , Etzelmüller Bernd , Lauknes Tom Rune , Larsen Yngvar , Blikra Lars Harald
Published: December 2021

Mountain slopes in periglacial environments are affected by frost- and gravity-driven processes that shape the landscape. Both rock glaciers and rockslides have been intensively inventoried worldwide. Although most inventories are traditionally based on morphologic criteria, kinematic approaches based on satellite remote sensing have more recently been used to identify moving landforms at the regional scale. In this study, we developed simplified Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) products to inventory ground velocity in a region in Northern Norway covering approximately 7,500 km2. We used a multiple temporal baseline InSAR stacking procedure based on 2015–2019 ascending and descending Sentinel-1 images to take advantage of a large set of interferograms and exploit different detection capabilities. First, moving areas are classified according to six velocity brackets, and morphologically associated to six landform types (rock glaciers, rockslides, glaciers/moraines, talus/scree deposits, solifluction/cryoturbation and composite landforms). The kinematic inventory shows that the velocity ranges and spatial distribution of the different types of slope processes vary greatly within the study area. Second, we exploit InSAR to update pre-existing inventories of rock glaciers and rockslides in the region. Landform delineations and divisions are refined, and newly detected landforms (54 rock glaciers and 20 rockslides) are incorporated into the databases. The updated inventories consist of 414 rock glacier units within 340 single- or multi-unit(s) systems and 117 rockslides. A kinematic attribute assigned to each inventoried landform documents the order of magnitude of the creep rate. Finally, we show that topo-climatic variables influence the spatial distribution of the rock glaciers. Their mean elevation increases toward the continental interior with a dominance of relict landforms close to the land-sea margin and an increased occurrence of active landforms further inland. Both rock glaciers and rockslides are mostly located on west-facing slopes and in areas characterised by strongly foliated rocks, which suggests the influence of geological preconditioning factors. The study demonstrates the value of semi-quantitative InSAR products to characterise kinematic information at large scale and exploit the results for periglacial research. It highlights the complementarity of both kinematic and morphologic approaches for inventorying slope processes.
Reconstruction of the Historical (1750–2020) Mass Balance of Bordu, Kara-Batkak and Sary-Tor Glaciers in the Inner Tien Shan, Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Van Tricht Lander , Paice Chloë Marie , Rybak Oleg , Satylkanov Rysbek , Popovnin Victor , Solomina Olga , Huybrechts Philippe
Published: December 2021

The mean specific mass balance of a glacier represents the direct link between a glacier and the local climate. Hence, it is intensively monitored throughout the world. In the Kyrgyz Tien Shan, glaciers are of crucial importance with regard to water supply for the surrounding areas. It is therefore essential to know how these glaciers behave due to climate change and how they will evolve in the future. In the Soviet era, multiple glaciological monitoring programs were initiated but these were abandoned in the nineties. Recently, they have been re-established on several glaciers. In this study, a reconstruction of the mean specific mass balance of Bordu, Kara-Batkak and Sary-Tor glaciers is obtained using a surface energy mass balance model. The model is driven by temperature and precipitation data acquired by combining multiple datasets from meteorological stations in the vicinity of the glaciers and tree rings in the Kyrgyz Tien Shan between 1750 and 2020. Multi-annual mass balance measurements integrated over elevation bands of 100 m between 2013 and 2020 are used for calibration. A comparison with WGMS data for the second half of the 20th century is performed for Kara-Batkak glacier. The cumulative mass balances are also compared with geodetic mass balances reconstructed for different time periods. Generally, we find a close agreement, indicating a high confidence in the created mass balance series. The last 20 years show a negative mean specific mass balance except for 2008–2009 when a slightly positive mass balance was found. This indicates that the glaciers are currently in imbalance with the present climatic conditions in the area. For the reconstruction back to 1750, this study specifically highlights that it is essential to adapt the glacier geometry since the end of the Little Ice Age in order to not over- or underestimate the mean specific mass balance. The datasets created can be used to get a better insight into how climate change affects glaciers in the Inner Tien Shan and to model the future evolution of these glaciers as well as other glaciers in the region.
Sedimentary History of Trace Metals Over the Past Half-Century in Songkhla Lake, Western Coast of the Gulf of Thailand: Anthropogenic Impacts and Contamination Assessment
Authors: Dong Ke , Qiao Shuqing , Wu Bin , Shi Xuefa , Chen Yufei , Shan Xin , Liu Shengfa , Kornkanitnan Narumol , Khokiattiwong Somkiat
Published: December 2021

Coastal lagoons are among the most vulnerable and economically significant ecosystems on Earth. Songkhla Lake, connected with the Gulf of Thailand, is the second largest lake in Southeast Asia and supports the development of the fishery, transportation, and tourism industries in southern Thailand. With increasing anthropogenic disturbances, the lake is facing acute ecological problems and further research is needed. Here, we provide 55-year record of grain size, color reflectance, magnetic susceptibility, total organic carbon, total nitrogen, and trace element (As, Hg, Pb, Cr, Ni, Cu, and Zn) concentrations of sediment core SKL8-2 collected from Songkhla Lake. These records reveal a three-stage sedimentary and input history of trace metals under anthropogenic effects: 1) From 1964 to 1982, it was a natural terrigenous input period with a relative reduction environment when the channel connecting Songkhla Lake and the Gulf of Thailand was closed. 2) Trace metal concentrations, organic carbon content, b* value, and magnetic susceptibility changed abruptly in 1982. During 1982–2000, the sources of trace metals were more complex than during 1964–1982 and mainly came from urban wastewater, industrial effluent, and fishery discharge. 3) From 2000 to 2019, contamination signals of Pb, Hg, As, Zn, and Ni emerged in the first decade because of the rapid development and poor sewage treatment around nearby cities.
Geochemical Characteristics of Hydrothermal Volatiles From Southeast China and Their Implications on the Tectonic Structure Controlling Heat Convection
Authors: Tian Jiao , Li Yiman , Zhou Xiaocheng , Pang Zhonghe , Li Liwu , Xing Lantian , Li Zhongping
Published: December 2021

Hot springs and igneous rocks are present widely in southeast China, influenced by the subduction of the Western Pacific and Philippine Sea Plates. This study reports on new data of chemical compositions and He–Ne–C isotopes for gas samples from representative hot springs and wells in the Guangdong and Fujian provinces to identify the origin of hydrothermal volatiles and provide insight into geothermal tectonic affinities. The primary hydrothermal volatile component from southeast China is atmospheric N2, with a volumetric percentage of 82.19%–98.29%. It indicates medium-low temperature geothermal systems where geothermal fluids suffered a shallow circulation in closed fracture systems. Low CO2 and CH4 contents and their depleted δ13C values confirmed the small number of deep-derived components in the study area. However, spatially discernible geochemical characteristics imply enhanced hydrothermal fluid convection in the adjacent area of the two provinces, including the Fengshun, Zhangzhou, Longyan, and Sanming geothermal fields. Specifically, the He–Ne isotopes from this area exhibit mantle He contribution of more than 10% and mantle heat flow accounts for more than half of the total heat flow. Moreover, according to the thermal background calculations, the highest heat flow value of 77.7 mW/m2 is indicated for the Zhangzhou geothermal area and the lowest value of 54.7 mW/m2 is indicated for the Maoming geothermal area. Given the epicenter distributions and the corresponding earthquake magnitudes, the NE-trending faults are heat-control tectonic structures and their intersections with the NW-trending faults provided expedite channels for geothermal fluids rising to the surface. Therefore, the preferred development potential of geothermal resources can be expected in the adjacent area of the two provinces where two sets of active faults crossed. This study provides critical information on understanding the geothermal distribution controlled by the tectonic structure in southeast China.
Associations of Sex Hormones and Hormonal Status With Arterial Stiffness in a Female Sample From Reproductive Years to Menopause
Authors: Laakkonen Eija K. , Karppinen Jari E. , Lehti Satu , Lee Earric , Pesonen Emilia , Juppi Hanna-Kaarina , Kujala Urho M. , Haapala Eero A. , Aukee Pauliina , Laukkanen Jari A. , Ihalainen Johanna K.
Published: December 2021

Objective

Loss of sex hormones has been suggested to underlie menopause-associated increment in cardiovascular risk. We investigated associations of sex hormones with arterial stiffness in 19–58-years-old women. We also studied associations of specific hormonal stages, including natural menstrual cycle, cycle with combined oral contraceptives (COC) and menopausal status with or without hormone therapy (HT), with arterial stiffness.

Methods

This study includes repeated measurements of 65 healthy women representing reproductive (n=16 natural, n=10 COC-users) and menopause (n=5 perimenopausal, n=26 postmenopausal, n=8 HT-users) stages. Arterial stiffness outcomes were aortic pulse wave velocity (PWVao) and augmentation index (AIx%) assessed using Arteriograph-device. Generalized estimating equation models were constructed to investigate associations of each hormone (wide age-range models) or hormonal stage (age-group focused models) with arterial stiffness. PWVao models with cross-sectional approach, were adjusted for age, relative fitness, fat mass and mean arterial pressure, while models with longitudinal approach were adjusted for mean arterial pressure. AIx% models used the same approach for adjustments and were also adjusted for heart rate.

Results

Negative and positive associations with arterial stiffness variables were observed for estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone, respectively, until adjustment for confounding effect of age. In naturally menstruating women, AIx% was higher at ovulation (B=3.63, p<0.001) compared to the early follicular phase. In COC-users, PWVao was lower during active (B=-0.33 - -0.57, p<0.05) than inactive pills. In menopausal women, HT-users had higher PWVao (B=1.43, p=0.03) than postmenopausal non-HT-users.

Conclusions

When using wide age-range assessments covering reproductive to menopausal lifespan it is difficult to differentiate age- and hormone-mediated associations, because age-mediated influence on arterial stiffness seemed to overrule potential hormone-mediated influences. However, hormonal status associated differentially with arterial stiffness in age-group focused analyses. Thus, the role of sex hormones cannot be excluded. Further research is warranted to resolve potential hormone-mediated mechanisms affecting arterial elasticity.
Decreased Endometrial Thickness Is Associated With Higher Risk of Neonatal Complications in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Huang Jialyu , Lin Jiaying , Xia Leizhen , Tian Lifeng , Xu Dingfei , Liu Peipei , Zhu Jing , Wu Qiongfang
Published: December 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the association of endometrial thickness (EMT) with obstetric and neonatal outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Methods

A total of 1755 subfertile PCOS women with singleton livebirths after frozen-thawed embryo transfer were included between January 2009 and September 2019. Main obstetric outcomes were hypertensive disorders in pregnancy and abnormal placentation. Main neonatal outcomes were preterm birth (PTB), low birthweight (LBW) and small-for-gestational age (SGA). Crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Each millimeter decrease in EMT was related to a 9% (adjusted OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00–1.19; P = 0.053), 14% (adjusted OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.02–1.28; P = 0.002) and 22% (adjusted OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.07–1.38; P = 0.003) higher risk of PTB, LBW and SGA, respectively. Compared to women with EMT >13 mm, women with EMT ≤8 mm also had significantly higher risk of PTB (adjusted OR 3.79, 95% CI 1.53–9.39; P = 0.004), LBW (adjusted OR 4.33, 95% CI 1.39–13.50; P = 0.012) and SGA (adjusted OR 6.38, 95% CI 1.78–22.83; P = 0.004). These associations remained consistent in further subgroup analysis by endometrial preparation regimen and in sensitivity analyses among nulligravida women or women without adverse obstetric outcomes. No significant differences were found in the incidence of several pregnancy complications across EMT categories.

Conclusion

Decreased EMT was independently associated with increased risk of PTB, LBW and SGA in women with PCOS.
The Livebirth Rate Per In Vitro Fertilization Cycle Is Higher Than The Cumulative Live Birth Rates of Intrauterine Insemination for Patients of Poseidon Group 3 With Unexplained Infertility
Authors: Wu Yixuan , Liu Haiying , Liu Jianqiao
Published: December 2021

Background

No studies have been done to examine the efficacy of IVF and intrauterine insemination (IUI) for the treatment of young patients with unexplained infertility and low ovarian reserve, although it is becoming an increasingly significant indication for in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The goal of this research was to compare the efficacy of IVF with IUI on Poseidon group 3 patients with unexplained infertility (PG3&UI).

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of PG3&UI patients who had IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) or IUI at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University between January 1, 2015, and March 31, 2021. To equalize the baseline characteristics of the IVF/ICSI and IUI groups, propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized. Intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses were used to compare the differences in live births. To discover variations in time to biochemical pregnancy leading to live birth, Kaplan-Meier curves were produced. To evaluate the expenses per live birth between two procedures, a cost-effective analysis was done.

Results

According to ITT analysis, the live birth rate for the IVF/ICSI group was substantially higher than the cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) for the IUI group (22.6% (38/168) vs. 11.3% (19/168), RR 2.00, 95% CI 1.20-3.32, P = 0.006). In the PP analysis, the live birth rate was 23.0% (38/165) in the IVF/ICSI group and 11.7% (19/162) in the IUI group (RR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.18-3.26, P = 0.007). When censored at 365 days, the Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the IVF/ICSI group had a higher live birth rate than the IUI group (log-rank test χ²= 6.025; P = 0.014). However, when the two groups were censored at 180 days, the live birth rates were not substantially different (log-rank test χ²= 3.847; P = 0.05). The number of hospital visits per live birth in the IUI group was higher than in the IVF/ICSI group (85 vs. 48). The overall cost of a live birth was comparable across the two groups (¥132242 vs. ¥131611), while the medical expenses for a live delivery from IVF/ICSI were higher than those from IUI (¥118955 vs. ¥108279).

Conclusions

The livebirth rate per IVF/ICSI cycle with at most one embryo transfer is higher than the CLBR of IUI, with fewer hospital visits and similar expenses.
Clinical Approach to Neuroendocrine Neoplasm Associated With Ovarian Teratoma
Authors: Opalińska Marta , Sowa-Staszczak Anna , Olearska Helena , Ulatowska-Bialas Magdalena , Gilis-Januszewska Aleksandra , Hubalewska-Dydejczyk Alicja
Published: December 2021

Background

Neuroendocrine neoplasms are a heterogeneous group of cancers that develop from enterochromaffin cells of the diffuse endocrine system, with an increase in incidents over the last years. Ovarian neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are rare neoplasms, comprising 0.1% of all ovarian neoplasms and less than 5% of all neuroendocrine tumors. They may arise alone (as monodermal, specialized teratoma – ovarian carcinoid) or as a part of other ovarian lesion: cystic mature or immature teratomas. Due to the rarity and limited amount of such cases reported in the literature, there is no consensus on diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in this group of patients.

Materials and Methods

The group of 10 patients at the age of 19 to 77 years (mean 42.8 ± 17.9), diagnosed with unilateral NET within ovarian teratoma were analyzed. The histopathological type of tumor, progression free survival after surgical treatment and presence of hormonally active syndrome were assessed.

Results

70% (n=7) of patients was diagnosed with mature cystic teratomas containing NET component and 30% (n=3) with monodermal teratoma (strumal carcinoid). All cases of monodermal teratomas were found in women at premenopausal age. Determined Ki67 ranged from 2% to 9%. Ninety percent of lesions (n=9) stained positive for synaptophysin and chromogranin, while markers: CK20, CK7, TTF-1 and CDX2 were negative in all cases, which ruled out their metastatic nature. None of the patients presented with carcinoid syndrome. All followed-up patients remain progression-free, which confirms surgical intervention being a crucial and sufficient method of treatment.

Conclusions

The prognosis and clinical behavior of NETs associated with ovarian teratomas are good with long progression-free survival.
Identification and Expression Analysis of G Protein-Coupled Receptors in the Miridae Insect Apolygus lucorum
Authors: Gao Han , Li Yanxiao , Wang Miao , Song Xiaowen , Tang Jing , Feng Fan , Li Bin
Published: December 2021

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest and most versatile family of transmembrane receptors in the cell and they play a vital role in the regulation of multiple physiological processes. The family Miridae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) is one of the most diverse families of insects. Until now, information on GPCRs has been lacking in Miridae. Apolygus lucorum, a representative species of the Miridae, is an omnivorous pest that occurs worldwide and is notorious for causing serious damage to various crops and substantial economic losses. By searching the genome, 133 GPCRs were identified in A. lucorum. Compared with other model insects, we have observed GPCR genes to be remarkably expanded in A. lucorum, especially focusing on biogenic amine receptors and neuropeptide receptors. Among these, there is a novel large clade duplicated from known FMRFamide receptors (FMRFaRs). Moreover, the temporal and spatial expression profiles of the 133 genes across developmental stages were determined by transcriptome analysis. Most GPCR genes showed a low expression level in the whole organism of A. lucorum. However, there were a few highly expressed GPCR genes. The highly expressed LW opsins in the head probably relate to nocturning of A. lucorum, and the expression of Cirl at different times and in different tissues indicated it may be involved in growth and development of A. lucorum. We also found C2 leucine-rich repeat-containing GPCRs (LGRs) were mainly distributed in Hemiptera and Phthiraptera among insects. Our study was the first investigation on GPCRs in A. lucorum and it provided a molecular target for the regulation and control of Miridae pests.
Comparison of Bolus and Continuous Infusion of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone During Adrenal Vein Sampling
Authors: Hu Jinbo , Chen Jiangqiong , Cheng Qingfeng , Jing Ying , Yang Jun , Du Zhipeng , Song Ying , Ma Linqiang , Yang Yi , Luo Ting , Wang Yue , Li Qifu , Yang Shumin
Published: December 2021

Background

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is widely used in adrenal vein sampling (AVS) and can be administered as a bolus injection or continuous infusion. The optimal administration method has not been determined. We aimed to compare the effects of ACTH bolus with infusion on cannulation success, lateralization assessment and adverse events (AEs).

Methods

Retrospectively collected data from patients with primary aldosteronism who underwent AVS with ACTH at a tertiary hospital in China. Rate of successful cannulation, lateralization index (LI), complete biochemical remission and AEs related to AVS were analyzed.

Results

The study included 80 patients receiving ACTH bolus and 94 receiving infusions. The rate of successful cannulation was comparable between bolus and infusion groups (75/80, 93.4% vs 88/94, 93.6%). In those with successful cannulation, the bolus group had a higher selectivity index than the infusion group, while LI [6.4(1.8-17.5) vs. 7.6(2.0-27.8), P=0.48] and rate of complete biochemical remission (43/44, 97.7% vs 53/53, 100%, P=0.45) did not significantly differ between the two groups. One in the bolus and one patient in the infusion group had adrenal vein rupture but they recovered with conservative treatment. The bolus group reported more transient AEs such as palpitation (52.9% vs 2.2%) and abdominal discomfort (40.0% vs 2.2%) than the infusion group.

Conclusions

Due to their similar effects on cannulation success and lateralization, but a lower rate of transient AEs in the infusion group, the continuous infusion method should be recommended for ACTH stimulation in AVS.
Association of Elevated Plasma FGF21 and Activated FGF21 Signaling in Visceral White Adipose Tissue and Improved Insulin Sensitivity in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Subtype: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Wang Ning , Sun Bo , Guo Haonan , Jing Yingyu , Ruan Qi , Wang Mengjun , Mi Yang , Chen Huan , Song Lin , Cui Wei
Published: December 2021

Objective

To study the discrepancy of the insulin sensitivity alteration pattern, circulating fibroblast growth factor (FGF21) levels and FGF21 signaling in visceral white adipose tissue (vWAT) of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) subtypes.

Methods

26 GDM women with either a predominant of insulin-secretion defect (GDM-dysfunction, n = 9) or insulin-sensitivity defect (GDM-resistance, n = 17) and 13 normal glucose tolerance (NGT) women scheduled for caesarean-section at term were studied. Blood and vWAT samples were collected at delivery.

Results

The insulin sensitivity was improved from the 2nd trimester to delivery in the GDM-resistance group. Elevated circulating FGF21 concentration at delivery, increased FGF receptor 1c and decreased klotho beta gene expression, enhanced ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and increased GLUT1, IR-B, PPAR-γ gene expression in vWAT were found in the GDM-resistance group as compared with the NGT group. The circulating FGF21 concentration was negatively correlated with fasting blood glucose (r = -0.574, P < 0.001), and associated with the GDM-resistance group (r = 0.574, P < 0.001) in pregnant women at delivery. However, we observed no insulin sensitivity alteration in GDM-dysfunction and NGT groups during pregnancy. No differences of plasma FGF21 level and FGF21 signaling in vWAT at delivery were found between women in the GDM-dysfunction and the NGT group.

Conclusions

Women with GDM heterogeneity exhibited different insulin sensitivity alteration patterns. The improvement of insulin sensitivity may relate to the elevated circulating FGF21 concentration and activated FGF21 signaling in vWAT at delivery in the GDM-resistance group.
Physical Design of High-Performance Fuel Assembly Based on Fully Ceramic Microencapsulated Fuel for Supercritical CO2 Cooled Reactor
Authors: Lu Di , Wang Lianjie , Cai Yun , Wang Dongyong , Zhang Ce
Published: December 2021

Fully ceramic microencapsulated fuel (FCM) is employed in the supercritical CO2 (S-CO2)-cooled reactor as accident tolerant fuel (ATF). Although the fuel and the assembly substrate contain SiC, the assembly cannot be sufficiently moderated due to the weak moderating performance of S-CO2, which affects the neutronics economy seriously. In this study, a new fuel assembly based on FCM fuel is proposed for the S-CO2 cooled reactor. Besides, the solid moderator rod is introduced into the design. Although the introduction of moderator rods can effectively improve the moderation performance of S-CO2 reactor assembly, it will lead to the deterioration of uniform moderation. To further improve the uniform moderation, arrangement of moderator rods and fuel enrichment partition are studied. Finally, the results show clearly that a better balance between uniform moderation and sufficient moderation can be obtained in the high-performance S-CO2 reactor assembly.
Assessing the Impact of the Digital Economy on Green Total Factor Energy Efficiency in the Post-COVID-19 Era
Authors: Zhang Sisi , Ma Xiaoyu , Cui Qi
Published: December 2021

Digital transformation in the energy sector is an essential tool for promoting the construction of a clean energy system in the post-COVID-19 era. Under the background of digital China strategy and sustainable energy transformation in the post-COVID-19 era, it is meaningful to investigate the relationship between the digital economy and green total factor energy efficiency (GTFEE) to better drive the development of the digital economy and improve GTFEE. For this purpose, this study estimates deeply the impact of the digital economy on GTFEE by applying ordinary least squares (OLS), panel vector autoregression (PVAR), panel threshold, and mediation effect models based on panel data of 30 Chinese provinces from 2006 to 2018. The statistical results indicate that digital economy is conducive to improving GTFEE. Digital economy can significantly contribute to GTFEE by improving economic growth level, urbanization level, R&D investment, and human capital. The most interesting finding was that there is also a non-linear relationship between digital economy and GTFEE. The effect of digital economy on GTFEE is shown to be first promoted and then inhibited as digital economy level continues to increase. Further, the positive impact of the digital economy on GTFEE is strengthened with increasing levels of economic growth, urbanization, R&D input, and human capital. Finally, A positive correlation was found between digital economy and GTFEE in the eastern and central regions, but insignificantly in other regions.
Green Building Energy Cost Optimization With Deep Belief Network and Firefly Algorithm
Authors: Liao Yan , Liu Yong , Chen Chaoyu , Zhang Lili
Published: December 2021

In this research, we propose a multi-objective optimization framework to minimize the energy cost while maintain the indoor air quality. The proposed framework is consisted with two stages: predictive modeling stage and multi-objective optimization stage. In the first stage, artificial neural networks are applied to predict the energy utility in real-time. In the second stage, an optimization algorithm namely firefly algorithm is utilized to reduce the energy cost while maintaining the required IAQ conditions. Industrial data collected from a commercial building in central business district in Chengdu, China is utilized in this study. The results produced by the optimization framework show that this strategy reduces energy cost by optimizing operations within the HAVC system.