bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinic-pathological Features of Epstein-barr Virus Infection, Microsatellite Instability, Tumor Mutation Burden and PD-L1 Status in 2504 Chinese Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhang Li , Wu Aiwen , Li Zhongwu
Published: August 2020

Objectives: Gastric cancer is the 4th most common cancer worldwide. Different subtype showed unique molecular features that could potentially guide therapeutic decisions. The aim of this study was to investigate the Epstein-Barr virus infection, microsatellite instability status, PD-L1 expression and gene mutation in surgically treated gastric cancer patients. Methods: We reviewed all GC patients who underwent potentially curative gastroectomy with lymphadenectomy at Peking University Cancer Hospital between 2013 and 2018 from a prospective collected medical database. We analyzed the clinic-pathological factors associated with immunohistochemistry profiles. We also analyzed gene changes through next-generation sequencing. Results: d-MMR gastric cancer patients are more likely to expression programmed death-ligand 1 (p<0.001, programmed death-ligand 1 cut off value 1%). EBV-positive and d-MMR patients were identified in 4% and 7.5% of the 2504 gastric cancer patients, respectively. The MLH1/PMS2 negative case number was 126. The MSH2/MSH6 negative case number was 14. d-MMR status was related to diffuse/mixed group (p<0.05), but not related to tumor differentiation. In our study, the microsatellite instability results detected by next generation sequencing and d-MMR gastric cancer results detected by immunohistochemistry were in high consistency. d-MMR gastric cancer patients had more microsatellite instability core. Many pathogenic genes were detected in microsatellite instability gastric cancer patients, such as POLE, ETV6, TP53, BRCA, RNF43 and other genes. Conclusion: Through immunohistochemistry and next generation sequencing, we got MSI status, protein expression, TMB and gene changes of GC, which provided a theoretical basis for future G clinical treatment.
A potential probiotic- Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group: Evidence from the restoration of the dietary pattern from a high-fat diet
Authors: Wu Menq-Rong , Chou Te-Sen , Huang Ching-Ying , Hsiao Jong-Kai
Published: August 2020

Background: High-fat diet (HFD) that contributes to obesity is one of the pivotal risk factors for metabolic syndrome and cancers. The dietary pattern can shape the intestinal bacterial community and influence the physiological parameters. This study aimed to investigate whether the short-term dietary pattern shift from HFD to a balanced chow diet (CD) could correct HFD-induced colonic dysbiosis and reverse adverse health effects and identify the specific bacteria that changed by dietary patterns. Results: C57BL/6 mice fed with an HFD for 10 months, followed by a CD for 3 months, served as the dietary shift model. Stool samples were collected for bacterial analysis. Physiological parameters, such as serum adipokines, blood lipid levels, and hepatic function, were monitored in control and dietary shift groups. HFD-induced weight gain was mitigated by the dietary shift. A highly similar structure at the phylum, genus, and species levels was observed in the beta diversity of colonic bacteria in mice that underwent the dietary shift as compared to those in the control group. Notably, the abundance of Peptococcaceae and Akkermansiaceae in HFD-fed mice reduced after the dietary shift; whereas the diminished amount of probiotic Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group in HFD-fed mice was restored to the level comparable to those in controls after the dietary shift. Conclusions: Our finding suggests that a dietary switch from a long-term HFD to a short-term balanced diet has the potential to correct colonic dysbiosis and restore physiological homeostasis. The Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group has the potential to be a probiotic.
Role of Pediococcus acidilactici J9 in Decreasing the Occurrence of Gastritis Caused by H.pylori Infection and Two-week Repeated-dose Oral Toxicity Study in Mice
Authors: Lee Mijung , Chung Jin-Young , Kim Ka Yeun , Im Wooseok , Kim Manho
Published: August 2020

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is an important pathogen that causes chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer, and is related to the development of gastric carcinoma. Several chemicals, including antibiotics, have been used to eradicate H.pylori. However, more studies are yet requred to accomplish a sufficient therapy. Pediococcus acidilactici J9 were studied for inhibition of binding of H.pylori binding to human gastric cell lines. This study was performed in order to investigate the repeated-dose toxicity of Pediococcus acidilactici J9 in male and female mice.Results: C57BL/6 male and female Mus musculus were divided into four groups (n = 10 in each group). Pediococcus acidilactici J9 was administered daily by oral injection of vehicle control at dosage levels to a low-dose group (500mg/kg/day), middle-dose group (1000mg/kg/day), and high-dose group (2000mg/kg/day) for two weeks. After 14 days of exposure, the blood biochemistry and hematology were investigated, along with a histopathology exam. There were no bacterial-related deaths or abnormal clinical signs in either gender of mouse. The data was observed during the period in terms of body weight, food, intake, and water consumption. Also, no alterations in organ weights upon administration of Pediococcus acidilactici J9 alone were observed.Conclusions: These results suggest that the oral application of Pediococcus acidilactici J9, up to a dosage level of 2,000 mg/kg/day, causes no adverse effects in both male and female mice. Pediococcus acidilactici J9 inhibits the adhesion of H.pylori to AGS gastric cancer cells. When used as probiotics, Pediococcus acidilactici J9 may help decrease the occurrence of gastritis and reduce the risk of H.pylori infection with promising safety issues.
Handgrip Assessment: Reproducibility and Agreement between Two Positions
Authors: Vargas-Pinilla Olga-Cecilia , Rodríguez-Grande Eliana-Isabel
Published: August 2020

Background: The protocol established for taking Hand grip dynamometry measurements determines that the patient must be in a sitting position. this protocol cannot be applied due to the patient’s conditions in some cases, such as abdominal surgery, musculoskeletal spine or hip injuries. The purpuse was to determine the reproducibility and level of agreement between the Handgrip dynamometry in supine position with the elbow flexed or extended, and the one measured in the sitting position, for determining if these postures can be interchangeable depending on the patient’s condition. Methods: The design was a descriptive cross-sectional study. The population were apparently healthy students, who were young adults between 18 and 30 years of age. (N=201). Handgrip measurement was performed on both upper limbs in a sitting position with a flexed elbow, a supine position with elbow flexion, and a supine position with the elbow extended. Three handgrip measurements were taken for each upper limb in each posture. Results: Reproducibility was nearly perfect in all positions evaluated for both the upper right and left limbs (ICC 0.95-0.97). Regarding the level of agreement for the comparison between sitting and supine positions with a flexed elbow, an average difference of −0.406 was noted, and the upper and lower agreement limits were found to be 4.59 and −5.40, respectively. For supine position with an extended elbow and supine position with a flexed elbow, the average difference was −1.479, and the upper and lower agreement limits were 3.881 and −6.840, respectively. Conclusions: Taking into account the results achieved in this study, clinicians or researchers can choose any of the positions evaluated herein and obtain reliable results as long as the standardization process is followed. The criterion of choice could be the patient’s condition.
DNA methylation abnormalities of imprinted genes in congenital heart disease: A pilot study
Authors: Chang Shaoyan , Wang Yubo , Xin Yu , Wang Shuangxing , Luo Yi , Wang Li , Zhang Hui , Li Jia
Published: August 2020

Background: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is resulted from the interaction of genetic aberration and environmental factors. Imprinted genes, which are regulated by epigenetic modifications, are essential for the normal embryonic development. However, the role of imprinted genes in the pathogenesis of CHD remains unclear.Results: We investigated the effect of imprinted gene methylation on the pathogenesis of CHD. Eighteen imprinted genes that are known to affect early embryonic development were selected and the methylation modification genes were detected by massarray in 27 CHD children and 28 healthy children. Altered methylation of 8 imprinted genes was found, including 2 imprinted genes with hypermethylation of GRB10 and MEST and 6 genes with hypomethylation of PEG10, NAP1L5, INPP5F, PLAGL1, NESP and MEG3. Stratified analysis showed that the methylation degree of imprinted genes was different in different types of CHD. Risk analysis showed that 6 imprinted genes within a specific methylation level range were the risk factor for CHD except MEST and NAP1L5.Conclusion: Altered methylation of imprinted genes is associated with CHD and varies in different types of CHD. Further experiments are warranted to identify the methylation characteristics of imprinted genes in different types of CHD and clarify the pathogenesis mechanism of imprinted genes in CHD.
Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles Ameliorate Airway Inflammation in a Rat Model of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Authors: Ridzuan Noridzzaida , Zakaria Norashikin , Widera Darius , Sheard Jonathan , Morimoto Mitsuru , Kiyokawa Hirofumi , Isa Seoparjoo Azmel Mohd , Singh Gurjeet Kaur Chatar , Then Kong-Yong , Ooi Ghee-Chien , Yahaya Badrul Hisham
Published: August 2020

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an incurable and debilitating chronic disease characterized by progressive airflow limitation associated with abnormal levels of tissue inflammation. Therefore, stem cell-based approaches to tackle the condition are currently a focus of regenerative therapies for COPD. However, stem cell-based therapies are cumbersome and often associated with high costs. Extracellular vesicles (EV) released by all cell types are crucially involved in paracrine, extracellular communication. Recent advances in the field suggest that stem cell-derived EV possess a therapeutic potential which is comparable to the cells of their origin. In this study, we assessed the potential anti-inflammatory effects of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUC-MSC) derived EV in a rat model of COPD. EV were isolated from hUC-MSC and characterized by the transmission electron microscope, western blotting, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. As a model of COPD, male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to cigarette smoke for up to 12 weeks followed by transplantation of hUC-MSC or application of hUC-MSC-derived EV. Lung tissue was subjected to histological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin staining, alcian blue-periodic acid Schiff (AB-PAS) staining, and immunofluorescence staining. Gene expression in the lung tissue was assessed using microarray analysis. Both, transplantation of hUC-MSC and application of EV resulted in a reduction of peribronchial and perivascular inflammation, alveolar septal thickening associated with mononuclear inflammation, as well as a decreased number of goblet cells. Moreover, hUC-MSC and EV ameliorated the loss of alveolar septa in the emphysematous lung of COPD rats and reduced the levels of NF-κB subunit p65 in the tissue. Subsequent microarray analysis revealed that both hUC-MSC and EV significantly regulate multiple pathways known to be associated with COPD. In conclusion, we show that hUC-MSC-derived EV effectively ameliorate by COPD-induced inflammation. Thus, EV could serve as a new cell-free based therapy for the treatment of COPD.
Neutrophil surged for mortality of COVID-19: a correlational study
Authors: Li Jingwen , Long Xi , Zhang Qing , Fang Xi , Luo Huilin , Fang Fang , Lv Xuefei , Zhang Dandan , Sun Yu , Li Na , Hu Shaoping , Lin Zhicheng , Xiong Nian
Published: August 2020

Background: Multiorgan damage by SARS-CoV-2 results in alterations of many clinical measures associated with mortality of COVID-19. This research discussed the pioneering pathogenicity factors that lead to the extensive damage elusive.Objectives: A cohort of COVID-19 patients.Methods: We conducted a correlational analysis of hospital outcomes with an independent cohort of COVID-19 patients and we also presented a death case to illustrate for time course of immune cell density.Results: The results showed that dysregulated immune cell densities were correlated with hospitalization duration before death, not before discharge. High neutrophil densities allowed sorting out one third of total death cases while a density of less than 70% of the white blood cells allowed sorting out 70% of surviving cases.Conclusion: Collectively surged neutrophil was a top trigger for mortality in patients with COVID-19.
Blocking of Efflux Transporters in Rats Improves Translational Validation of Brain Radioligands
Authors: Shalgunov Vladimir , Xiong Mengfei , L'Estrade Elina T , Raval Nakul R , Andersen Ida Vang , Edgar Fraser G , Speth Nikolaj Raahauge , Bærentzen Simone Larsen , Hansen Hanne Demant , Donovan Lene Lundgaard , Nasser Arafat , Peitersen Siv Thorlund , Kjær Andreas , Knudsen Gitte Moos , Syvänen Stina , Palner Mikael , Herth Matthias Manfred
Published: August 2020

Background: Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a molecular imaging technique that can be used to investigate the in vivo pharmacology of drugs. Initial preclinical evaluation of PET tracers is often conducted in rodents due to the accessibility of disease models as well as economic considerations. Compared to larger species, rodents display a higher expression and/or activity of efflux transporters such as the P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Low brain uptake could, therefore, be species-specific and uptake in rodents not be predictive for that in humans. We hypothesized that a better prediction from rodent data could be achieved when a tracer is evaluated under P-gp inhibition. Consequently, we compared the performance of eight tracers in rats with and without P-gp inhibition including a specific binding blockade. This data set was then used to predict the binding of these eight tracers in pigs.Methods: The brain uptake and target-specific binding of eight PET radiotracers were evaluated in rats with and without inhibition of P-gp. Rat data were subsequently compared to the results obtained in pigs.Results: The performance in pigs could correctly be predicted for six out of eight tracers, compared to four out of eight tracers without P-gp inhibition.Conclusions: P-gp strongly affects the uptake of PET tracers in rodents, but false prediction outcomes can be reduced by evaluating a tracer under P-gp inhibition.
TFE3-PD-L1 axis is pivotal for sunitinib resistance in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Guo Xudong , Li Ruxia , Bai Qiulei , Jiang Shaobo , Wang Hanbo
Published: August 2020

Background: The microphthalmia of bHLH-LZ transcription factors (MiT/TFE) family chromosomal translocation or overexpression is linked with a poor prognosis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) with elevated recurrence and drug resistance, but the molecular mechanism is not fully understood. Here, we investigated whether the resistance to sunitinib malate (Sun), the standard treatment for metastatic RCC, is due to upregulation of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) by the transcription factor E3 (TFE3) in ccRCC.Methods: The effect of TFE3 expression on ccRCC proliferation had been evaluated. The regulation of TFE3 on PD-L1 was assessed by qPCR and western blots in human primary clear cell lines and ccRCC specimens. The regulation of Sun on TFE3 and PD-L1 was assessed by western blots and flow cytometry. The therapeutic efficacy of Sun plus PD-L1 blockade was evaluated in xenograft mouse model.Results: In this study, we propose that TFE3 but not TFEB is essential for tumor survival and more importantly it is more of a promotor of cell proliferation which was associated with the poorer survival of cancer patients. We also found a positive correlation between TFE3 and PD-L1 expression in clear cell RCC cells and tissues. Sun treatment led to enhanced TFE3 nuclear translocation and PD-L1 expression. Finally, we observed the therapeutic benefit of Sun plus PD-L1 inhibition which enhanced CD8+ cytolytic activity and thus tumor suppression in a xenografted mouse model.Conclusions: Our data provides a strong rationale to apply Sun and PD-L1 inhibition jointly as a novel immunotherapeutic approach for ccRCC treatment.
A Clinical Study of Curative Partial Breast Irradiation for Stage I Breast Cancer using Carbon ion Radiotherapy
Authors: Karasawa Kumiko , Omatsu Tokuhiko , Shiba Shintaro , Irie Daisuke , Wakatsuki Masaru , Fukuda Shigekazu
Published: August 2020

Background and purpose: Our institute initiated carbon ion radiotherapy research for patients with stage I breast cancer in April 2013. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the treatment outcome up to May 2020.Materials and methods: Eligibility criteria of the patients were having untreated stage I breast cancer and being unsuitable for operation for physical or mental reasons. The irradiated volume was defined as the gross tumor including intraductal components. The dose escalation study was initially conducted four times a week for a total of 52.8 Gy ([Relative Biological Efficacy (RBE)]). After confirming that adverse effects were within acceptable range, the total dose was increased to 60.0 Gy (RBE). Results: Between April 2013 and November 2015, 14 cases were treated. The median follow up period was 61 months. No adverse toxicities were observed except for grade 1 acute skin reaction in 10 cases. The time required from carbon-ion radiotherapy to tumor disappearance was 3 months in 1 case, 6 months in 3 cases, 12 months in 4 cases, and 24 months in 5 cases. The third case developed local recurrence 6 months after radiotherapy. Twelve patients with luminal subtype received 5-year endocrine therapy. Thirteen of 14 tumors have been maintaining complete response with excellent cosmetic results.Conclusions: The time from carbon ion radiotherapy to tumor disappearance was longer than expected, but complete tumor disappearance was observed except for one high-grade case. With careful patient selection, carbon-ion radiotherapy in patients with stage I breast cancer is deemed effective and safe, and further research is recommended.
An Ethnobotanical Study on Chuangqing People of China based on the Herbal Market Survey on Dragon Boat Festival
Authors: wang qinghe , Zhao Ling , Gao Chi , Zhang LianYing , Luo JinFeng , Shen YuXiang , Yao Ruyu , Yin HongXiang
Published: August 2020

Background: Chuanqing People is one of the unrecognized ethnic groups in China, having unique cultural backgrounds and rich knowledge of traditional medicinal plants. The herbal market on Dragon Boat Festival plays an important role in inheriting the traditional medicinal knowledge of Chuanqing People. The aim of this study was to record the characteristics, current situation, and problems of medicinal plant usages of the Chuanqing People of China, to serve for the inheritance of traditional knowledge and the protection of biodiversity. Methods: The information was collected through key informant interviews, semi-structured interviews, and taxonomy identification; and then, results were compared with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and other ethnic medicines of Guizhou Province. Data were analyzed with Use Value (UV) and CI value. Results: A total of 102 species from 53 families and 92 genera were recorded, including Orchidaceae and Asparagaceae (6 species respectively), Berberidaceae and Compositae (5 species respectively), Apocynaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, and Polygonaceae (4 species respectively) as predominate families. Moreover, 71 investigated human ailments were grouped into 12 categories. Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (34 mentions) were the most frequently mentioned in our study. The most frequently used species was Hedera nepalensis var. sinensis (Tobler) Rehder (UV & CI=0.288). Conclusion: The traditional herbal market during the Dragon Boat Festival is a hotspot of traditional medicinal plant knowledge of local people. However, urbanization threatens the inheritance of the local medicinal plant knowledge. The study highlights the traditional medicinal knowledge of Chuanqing People, which provides basic data for further research on botanical and conservation.
Effects of Eubiotic Lignocellulose on the Gut Microbiota and Metabolism of Chickens
Authors: Sun Baosheng , Hou Linyue , Yang Yu
Published: August 2020

Background: Dietary fiber is an important factor shaping the gut microbiota. Eubiotic lignocellulose is a useful source of dietary fiber for chickens; however, research on its effects on the gut microbiota and metabolism of chickens is limited. Moreover, the gut microbiota regulates the host metabolism, which generally depend on microbiotal metabolites—short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and the SCFA receptors; however, related research reports on the SCFA receptors of chickens are lacking. Given this, we added three different levels of eubiotic lignocellulose (0%, 1%, and 2%) to the feed of ISA brown hens (IBH) for 0–8 weeks, with the aim of observing the effects of added eubiotic lignocellulose on the gut microbiota, SCFAs and its receptors and metabolism of chickens. Results: The results showed that the addition of eubiotic lignocellulose showed no significant difference among groups in terms of the growth performance, development of the cecum and microbial diversity of IBH (P > 0.05), but significantly (P < 0.05) increased the relative abundance of the excellent fiber-degradation bacterium Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, the acetate-producing bacterium Sutterella and fiber digestibility. The addition of 1% eubiotic lignocellulose significantly (P < 0.05) increased the lactate-producing bacterium Lactobacillus panis, the butyrate-producing bacterium Oscillospira and the concentration of SCFAs in the cecum chyme. The addition of eubiotic lignocellulose had no significant effect on the relative expression of the SCFA receptor–G protein-coupled receptor 43 (GPR43) mRNA in the liver and cecum (P > 0.05), resulting in there being no significant difference (P > 0.05) among groups in the metabolism of chickens, including gastrointestinal hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), peptide tyrosine–tyrosine (PYY), blood glucose and liver glycogen. Conclusions: The addition of eubiotic lignocellulose can increase the abundance of the fiber-degradation bacterium Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and the fiber digestion of chickens at 8 weeks. The addition of 1% eubiotic lignocellulose is more conducive to the fiber-degradation bacteria and the SCFA-producing bacteria, resulting in increasing of the production of SCFAs. However, because the difference of the concentration of SCFAs was not great among groups, there was no significant change in the growth performance of chickens, the development of the cecum and the relative expression of GPR43 mRNA, resulting in slight effects on the metabolism, including GLP-1 and PYY and the blood glucose and liver glycogen of chickens. Increasing our understanding of this would be beneficial to providing a theoretical basis for the application of eubiotic lignocellulose and improve the growth performance and health of chickens.
Bismuth Atom Tailoring of Indium Oxide Surface Frustrated Lewis Pairs Boosts Heterogeneous CO2 Photocatalytic Hydrogenation
Authors: Yan Tingjiang , Li Na , Wang Linlin , Ran Weiguang , Duchesne Paul , Wan Lili , Nguyen Nhat Truong , Wang Lu , Xia Meikun , Ozin Geoffrey
Published: August 2020

The surface frustrated Lewis pairs (SFLPs) on defect-laden metal oxides provide catalytic sites to activate H2 and CO2 molecules and enable efficient gas-phase CO2 photocatalysis. Lattice engineering of metal oxides provides a useful strategy to tailor the reactivity of SFLPs. Herein a one-step solvothermal synthesis is developed that enables isomorphic replacement of In3+ ions in UV-absorbing In2O3 by single-site Bi3+ ions to generate a new class of full-spectrum UV-Vis-NIR absorbing BixIn2-xO3 materials. Through compositional tuning, these materials prove to be three orders of magnitude more photoactive for the reverse water gas shift reaction (i.e., CO2 + H2 CO + H2O) than In2O3 itself, while also exhibiting notable photoactivity towards methanol production from carbon dioxide (i.e., CO2 + 3H2 CH3OH + H2O). The defective form of In2O3 containing oxygen vacancy sites can create SFLPs involving In3+ nearby the oxygen vacancy, which function as Lewis acidic sites, while lattice oxide O2- act as Lewis basic sites. In this study, it is discovered that the reactivity of these SFLPs can be further enhanced by single-site Bi3+ ion isomorphic substitution of Lewis acidic site In3+, thereby enhancing the propensity to activate CO2 molecules. In addition, the increased solar absorption efficiency and efficient charge separation and transfer of BixIn2-xO3 also contribute to the improved photocatalytic performance. These traits lead to enhanced binding and activation of CO2, exemplifying the opportunities that exist for atom-scale engineering in heterogeneous CO2 photocatalysis, another step towards the vision of the solar CO2 refinery.
Intranasal Exposure of African Green Monkeys to SARS-CoV-2 Results in Acute Phase Pneumonia With Shedding and Lung Injury Still Present in the Early Convalescence Phase
Authors: Geisbert Tom , Cross Robert , Agans Krystle , Prasad Abhishek , Borisevich Viktoriya , Woolsey Courntey , Deer Daniel , Dobias Natalie , Geisbert Joan , Fenton Karla
Published: August 2020

We recently reported the development of the first African green monkey (AGM) model for COVID-19 based on a combined liquid intranasal (i.n.) and intratracheal (i.t.) exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Here, we followed up on this work by assessing an i.n. particle only route of exposure using the LMA mucosal atomization device (MAD). Six AGMs were infected with SARS-CoV-2; three animals were euthanized near the peak stage of virus replication (day 5) and three animals were euthanized during the early convalescence period (day 34). All six AGMs supported robust SARS-CoV-2 replication and developed respiratory disease. Evidence of coagulation dysfunction as noted by a transient increases in aPTT and circulating levels of fibrinogen was observed in all AGMs. The level of SARS-CoV-2 replication and lung pathology was not quite as pronounced as previously reported with AGMs exposed by the combined i.n. and i.t. routes; however, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in nasal swabs of some animals as late as day 15 and rectal swabs as late as day 28 after virus challenge. Of particular importance to this study, all three AGMs that were followed until the early convalescence stage of COVID-19 showed substantial lung pathology at necropsy as evidenced by multifocal chronic interstitial pneumonia and increased collagen deposition in alveolar walls despite the absence of detectable SARS-CoV-2 in any of the lungs of these animals. These findings are consistent with human COVID-19 further demonstrating that the AGM faithfully reproduces the human condition.
Disseminating Evidence-based Research on Mental Health and Coping to Adolescents Facing Adversity in Lebanon: A Pilot of a Psychoeducational Comic Book ‘Somoud’
Authors: Bosqui Tania Josiane , Mayya Anas , Younes Liliane , Baker Myriam Claire , Annan Ismat
Published: August 2020

BackgroundDespite advances in the evidence base and scaling up of mental health and psychosocial interventions for children and adolescents affected by conflict and adversity, a theory-practice gap remains, with limited translation of research findings to affected communities. MethodsIn order to disseminate research on mental health and coping for children and adolescents, a psychoeducational comic book ‘Somoud’ was developed and piloted with adolescents and their caregivers in Lebanon, using a qualitative Grounded Theory approach.ResultsIn total, 10 participants (5 adolescents, 5 parents), took part in the study. Using Thematic Content Analysis, 6 themes were identified; 1) psychoeducation versus misinterpretation, 2) balancing depth with accessibility, 3) aesthetic appeal, 4) contextual relevance and realism, 5) daily stressors, and 6) parental and social relationships. ConclusionsThe findings demonstrate the importance of cultural and contextual piloting of psychoeducational content, and the potential usefulness and accessibility of a comic book format to disseminate information to young people. Data from the pilot was used to inform the development of a new version of ‘Somoud’ for sharing with young people in Lebanon. Further research is required to establish the effectiveness of the psychoeducational book as a ‘self-help’ tool, and to further improve knowledge exchange between researchers and communities.
A robust LU polynomial matrix decomposition for spatial multiplexing
Authors: Mbaye Moustapha , Diallo Moussa , Mboup Mamadou
Published: August 2020

This paper considers time-domain spatial multiplexing in MIMO wideband system, using an LU-based polynomial matrix decomposition. Because the corresponding pre- and post-filters are not paraunitary, the noise output power is amplified and the performance of the system is degraded, compared to QR-based spatial multiplexing approach. Degradations are important as the post-filter polynomial matrix is ill-conditioned. In this paper, we introduce simple transformations on the decomposition that solve the ill-conditioning problem. We show that this results in a MIMO spatial multiplexing scheme that is robust to noise and channel estimation errors. In the latter context, the proposed LU-based beamforming compares favorably to the QR-based counterpart in terms of complexity and bit error rate.
Relationship Between Neuroendocrine and Immune Gene Expression in Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Cai Ling , Liu Hongyu , huang fang , Fujimoto Junya , Girard Luc , Chen Jun , Li Yongwen , Zhang Yu-an , Deb Dhruba , Stastny Victor , Kuo Christin , Jia Gaoxiang , Yang Chendong , Zou Wei , Alomar Adeeb , Huffman Kenneth , Papari-Zareei Mahboubeh , Yang Lin , Drapkin Benjamin , Akbay Esra , Shames David , Wistuba Ignacio , Wang Tao , Xiao Guanghua , DeBerardinis Ralph , Minna John D. , Xie Yang , Gazdar Adi
Published: August 2020

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is classified as a high-grade neuroendocrine (NE) tumor, but a subset of SCLC has been termed “variant” due to the loss of NE characteristics. In this study, we computed NE scores for patient-derived SCLC cell lines and xenografts, as well as human tumors. We aligned NE properties with transcription factor-defined molecular subtypes. Then we investigated the different immune phenotypes associated with high and low NE scores. We found repression of immune response genes as a shared feature between classic SCLC and pulmonary neuroendocrine cells of the healthy lung. With loss of NE fate, variant SCLC tumors regain cell-autonomous immune gene expression and exhibit higher tumor-immune interactions. Pan-cancer analysis revealed this NE lineage-specific immune phenotype in other cancers. Additionally, we observed MHC I re-expression in SCLC upon development of chemoresistance. These findings provide a new framework to guide design of treatment regimens in SCLC.
Screening of Radiotracer for Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis Based on MACC1-SPON2
Authors: Jiang Hao , Guo Wei , Huang Kuan , Jiang Huijie , Zhang Rongjun , Hu Hongbo , Lin Xue , Wang Song
Published: August 2020

Background: metastasis-associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) and Spondin2 (SPON2) are newly discovered oncogenes, but little is known about their role in colorectal cancer(CRC) liver metastases. PET has become an important molecular imaging technology due to its high sensitivity and quantifiability. In particular, its targeted, specific molecular probes can detect biological behaviors. This study was designed to evaluate the different biological properties of 18F-FDG, 18F-FLT and 18F-FMISO PET. The value of the CRC liver metastasis model explores the correlation and potential mechanisms of three tracers uptakes with tumor-related biological characteristics. Methods: Human CRC cell lines(LoVo and HCT8), were cultured for in vitro radionuclide uptake experiments to compare the molecular imaging features of colorectal cancer cells with different metastatic potentials. Two kinds of cells were injected into the spleen of nude mice to establish a liver metastasis model. After the tumor formation, three kinds of tracer PET images were performed to evaluate the characteristics of live PET imaging of high and low liver metastasis colorectal cancer models. The expression levels of MACC1 and SPON2 in tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Correlation between tracer uptake and expression of MACC1 and SPON2 in liver metastases was assessed by linear regression analysis. Results: The uptake rate of in vitro three tracers uptake experiments was: LoVo>HCT8. Micro-PET scan showed no significant difference between the 18F-FDG SUV values of the two cells (P>0.05); there was significant difference between the 18F-FLT and 18F-FMISO SUV values (P<0.05). All in vivo FLT and FMISO SUV values were significantly higher in LoVo tumors than in HCT8 tumors. The results of Western blot and immunohistochemistry showed that the expression levels of MACC1 and SPON2 in LoVo liver metastasis were higher than those in HCT8 (P<0.05). The 18F-FLT SUVmax ratio was significantly correlated with the expression of MACC1 and SPON2 in hepatic metastases (r=0.737, P=0.0026; r=0.842, P=0.0002). The 18F-FMISO SUVmax ratio was only significantly correlated with the expression of MACC1 in hepatic metastasis (r=0.770, P=0.0013). Conclusions: Early screening with 18F-FLT and 18F-FMISO tracers has important clinical value for the efficient diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer liver metastases.
The development of using nomogram to predict pregnancy outcomes of emergency oocyte freeze-thaw cycles
Authors: Wang Yang , Niu Ziru , Tao Liyuan , Zheng Xiaoying , Yuan Yifeng , Liu Ping , Li Rong
Published: August 2020

Background: To study which characteristics of a pre-oocyte-retrieval patient can affect the pregnancy outcomes of emergency oocyte freeze-thaw cycles. Methods: Nomogram model performance was assessed by examining the discrimination and calibration in the development and validation cohorts. Discriminatory ability was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and calibration was assessed using the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test and calibration plots. Data was collected from the Reproductive Center, Peking University Third Hospital of China. Nomogram model performance was assessed by examining the discrimination and calibration in the development and validation cohorts. Discriminatory ability was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and calibration was assessed using the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test and calibration plots.Results: The predictors in the model of ‘no embryo to transfer’ are female age (OR= 1.099, 95% CI=1.003-1.205, P=0.044), duration of infertility(OR= 1.140, 95% CI=1.018-1.276, P=0.024), basal FSH level (OR= 1.205, 95% CI=1.051-1.382, P=0.0084), basal E2 level (OR=1.006, 95% CI=1.001-1.010, P=0.012) and sperm from MESA (OR=7.741, 95% CI=2.905-20.632, P<0.001). Upon assessing predictive ability, the AUC for this model was 0.799 (95% CI: 0.722–0.875, p＜0.001). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test (p=0.721) and calibration curve showed good calibration. The predictors in the cumulative live birth were the number of follicles on the day of hCG administration (OR= 1.088, 95% CI=1.030-1.149, P=0.002) and endometriosis (OR= 0.172, 95% CI=0.035-0.853, P=0.031). The AUC for this model was 0.724 (95% CI: 0.647–0.801, p＜0.001). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test (p=0.562) and calibration curve showed good calibration for the prediction of cumulative live birth. Conclusion: The predictors in the final multivariate logistic regression models found to be significantly associated with poor pregnancy outcomes were increasing female age, duration of infertility, basal FSH and E2 level, the number of follicles with a diameter greater than 10 mm on the day of hCG administration, endometriosis and sperm from microdissection testicular sperm extraction (MESA).
Clean Energy Utilization Technology in the Transformation of Urban Existing Residence in China
Authors: Zhao Li , Chen Wei , Li Qiong , Wu WeiWei
Published: August 2020

Clean energy substitution technology of existing residential buildings in cities is an inevitable choice for sustainable development and low-carbon ecological city construction. In this paper, the current status of energy-saving renovation and renewable energy application of existing residential buildings in various cities in China is summarized by using statistical analysis method. According to different climatic zones of existing urban areas, the production and consumption of conventional energy (e.g. electricity, gas) and new energy (e.g. solar energy and air energy) are analyzed, and the energy consumption of buildings in existing urban residential areas is analyzed based on STIRPAT model principle. The influencing factors are modeled and analyzed quantitatively. The function relationship between energy consumption of existing residential buildings and influencing factors is analyzed by Ridge Regression with R software. The research results show that the areas with energy-saving modification area of existing buildings in China exceeding 10 million m2 by 2018 include: Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia and Shandong Province; based on data analysis of 2015-2017 in China with different climatic zones, the nuclear power generation capacity in hot summer and warm winter areas is ahead of other areas and the power generation capacity is increasing year by year; the wind power and solar power generation capacity in cold areas and cold areas is comparable. Strong and power generation also increases year by year; the proportion of clean energy generation in total power generation in each region is still small; the annual power generation of clean energy in each region is positively related to the total power generation. Based on STIRPAT model analysis, compared with 2009, urban residential energy consumption increased by 43.6% in 2016.Natural gas-based clean energy has also increased from 7.9% to 13.4%.But still cannot meet the demand of energy consumption of urban residential. The research results can provide basic data support for planning and implementation of clean energy upgrading and transformation system in existing urban residential areas in China.
Response of Lamiophlomis rotata (Benth.) Kudo to degradation of alpine grasslands in the western Sichuan plateau, China
Authors: Niu Tong , Sun Hui , Gu Rui , Zhong Shihong , Liu Lin , Xie Jing , Chen Zhaoqiong , Zhao Can , Ding Rong
Published: August 2020

Background: Lamiophlomis rotata (Benth.)Kudo, also known as Duyiwei in China, is considered to be one of the most common Tibetan medicine. It is famous for the significant effects on improving blood circulation and relieving pain. Due to the environmental deterioration and excessive consumption, the wild resources of L.rotata is decreasing year by year. However, its artificial cultivation has not been realized. This study aimed to initially explore the adaptation mechanism of L.rotata to degraded alpine grassland, and provide reference for its wild tending and artificial cultivation.Methods: In this study, we used a sample method to conduct a population ecological survey of plants and collect plant leaf samples from mildly, moderately, and extremely degraded grassland. The content of SOD, POD, CAT, PRO, MDA, SS, SP, carotene, chlorophyll A and chlorophyll B in different sample leaves was measured by colorimetry. Microscopic characteristics of the cross-section, epidermis and submicroscopic structure of the leaves were observed and compared.Results: The density of L. rotata in moderately degraded grassland was the highest，where L. rotata had the strongest resistance. And the analysis of seven physiological indicators combined with stress resistance showed that the average content of MDA, SOD, POD, CAT and SS is the highest in L. rotata of the moderately degraded grassland. The microscopic observation showed that, by increasing the thickness of the epidermis, the density of the glandular scales, the proportion of palisade tissue and the number of gland scales, L. rotata was able to adapt to the degraded grassland. Meanwhile, morphological studies have shown that L. rotata could enhance root growth in the degraded grassland. Furthermore, in response to the degradation of alpine grassland on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, L. rotata population and biomass distribution in the underground parts have increased. However, L. rotata does not have a competitive advantage in mildly degraded grassland. Compare with the mildly and moderately habitat, the population of L. rotata is small in the extremely degraded habitat.Conclusion: The results showed that among the 3 levels of degraded grassland, L. rotata in the moderately degraded grassland shows the strongest resistance. This study can provide a reference for breeding and ecological planting of L. rotata, suggests that in the nursery stage, the medium degraded grassland should be chosen for ecological breeding to enhance the survival rate of seedlings. While after large-scale planting, reasonable community interventions, like the P. fruticosa+F. rubra community, should be built to simulate the yield of medicinal materials.
Clinical manifestations of Covid-19 disease; Exploring the experiences of infected health-care providers.
Authors: Toulabi Tahereh , Veiskramian Atefeh , Azadi Abas , Heydari Heshmatolah
Published: August 2020

BackgroundCovid-19 is a novel disease with many unknown clinical and managemental dimensions. To effectively diagnose, control, and treat the disease, it is required to divulge its clinical symptoms and their qualities. On the other hand, no one can better interpret the clinical symptoms than the caregivers infected by the disease. So, the aim of this study was to exploring the experiences of infected health-care providers about clinical manifestations of Covid-19 disease.MethodsThe present qualitative research was conducted using the conventional content analysis method in Iran from March to Jun 2020. Participants in this study included infected health care providers with Covid-19, who were selected based on purposeful sampling method. The data was collected by 18 phone call interviews and analyzed according Lundman and Graneheim approach.ResultsQualitative data analysis revealed 10 categories including respiratory disorders, fever and chills, body pain, fatigue, headache, skin disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, taste and olfactory disturbances, insomnia and also stress and anxiety.ConclusionPatients with Covid-19 may experience specific or non-specific disorders. It is necessary to consider people with non-specific manifestations as suspicious cases and screen them with proper diagnostic tests. This can help to identify true positive patients and provide them with more effective health cares, and prevent further spread of the disease by isolating suspected individuals.Trial registration numberNot applicable
Impact of unrealistic optimism on the risk of contamination during the home confinement of COVID-19 in Algeria
Authors: Boutebal Saad Eddine , Yahi Samia , Madani Azzeddine
Published: August 2020

Objective: The study was conducted to investigate the impact of unrealistic optimism on the risk of contamination at home confinement and its association with certain social variables.Methods: This survey study was conducted to describe the level of unrealistic optimism and its association with some social variables. The participants (n = 558, 60.6% females and 39.4 males) subjectively evaluated the risk of their coronavirus infection in the period 1-15 May 2020, for this purpose a questionnaire was adopted and administered to a sample of 558 citizens. Results: the results showed that 69.2% of the participants confirmed their respect always, and 38.7% confirmed that they rarely wear the mask, while 24% of the sample confirmed that they only sometimes wear the mask when they leave the house, including 50.5% of the sample confirmed that people infected with the coronavirus suffer from social stigmatization. It is found that 54.8% of the respondents had an average level of unrealistic optimism, where the mean of participants was (36, 17 ± 5, 97). The study also revealed that there is an association between the levels of unrealistic optimism and respect the home confinement (P = 0.001); whereas, the results showed that there is no association between the levels of unrealistic optimism and wearing the mask (P = 0.183). The study discovered there is significantly a negative association (B = -, 119, P = 0.005) between unrealistic optimism and the age of Algerian citizens during the home confinement of coronavirus. Otherwise, while the results did not show any statistically significant differences in unrealistic optimism between groups of gender among Algerian citizens during the home confinement of coronavirus (P = 0, 0835).Conclusions: In effect, unrealistic optimism is linked to avoiding risky behaviors that threaten human life as it is the case with the coronavirus. Therefore, it is important to reduce the levels of unrealistic optimism of individuals with beliefs and objective information to avoid dangerous behavior during and after the confinement period.
Long-term target tracking combined with re-detection
Authors: Zhao ZengShun , Wang Juanjuan , Yang HaoRan , Xu Ning , Wu Chengqin , Zhang Jixiang , Wu Dapeng Oliver
Published: August 2020

The long-term visual tracking undergoes more challenges and is closer to realistic applications than short-term tracking. However, most existing methods have not been done and their performances have also been limited. In this work, we present a reliable yet simple long-term tracking method, which extends the state-of-the-art Discriminative Correlation Filters (DCF) tracking algorithm with a re-detection component based on the SVM model. The DCF tracking algorithm localizes the target in each frame and the re-detector is able to efficiently re-detect the target in the whole image when the tracking fails. We further introduce a robust confidence degree evaluation criterion that combines the maximum response criterion and the average peak-to correlation energy (APCE) to judge the confidence level of the predicted target. When the confidence degree is generally high, the SVM is updated accordingly. If the confidence drops sharply, the SVM re-detects the target. We perform extensive experiments on the OTB-2015 dataset, the experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our algorithm in long-term tracking.