bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the impact of long-term exposure to nine outdoor air pollutants on spatial spread of Covid-19: evidence from 107 Italian provinces
Authors: Perone Gaetano
Published: September 2021

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has dramatically changed every aspect of people’s lives around the world over the past year and a half. Although the global vaccination campaign is progressing worldwide, new variants of COVID-19 have emerged, driving many countries into a fourth wave of COVID-19 contagion. This paper investigates the air quality in 107 Italian provinces in the period 2014–2019 and the association between long-term exposure to nine outdoor air pollutants and the prevalence of COVID-19 in the same areas. The methods used were negative binomial (NB) regressions, ordinary least squares (OLS) models, and spatial autoregressive models with autoregressive disturbances (SARAR). The air pollutants examined were common air pollutants (NO2, O3, PM2.5, PM10), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) (benzene and BaP), and heavy metals (As, Cd, and Ni). The results showed that i) common air pollutants were generally highly and positively correlated with density of large firms, energy and gas consumption, public transport, and the livestock sector; and ii) long-term exposure to NO2, PM2.5, PM10, benzene, BaP, and Cd was positively and significantly correlated with the spread of COVID-19, even after controlling for cofactors and spatial effects. This outcome seems of interest and relevance because PAHs and heavy metals have not been considered at all in recent literature. It also seems to suggest the need for a national strategy to drive down air pollutant concentrations in order to cope better with possible future pandemics.
Alterations in Gamma-Delta T Cells in Patients With Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Chen Sha , Lv Tingting , Sun Guangyong , Li Shuxiang , Duan Weijia , Zhang Chunpan , Jin Hua , Tian Dan , Li Mingyang , Shan Shan , Ma Hong , Ou Xiaojuan , You Hong , Zhang Dong , Jia Jidong
Published: September 2021

Background & Aims

Gamma-delta (γδ) T cells are involved in the development of diverse liver and autoimmune diseases, whereas the role of γδ T cells in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) remains unclear.
Methods

We analyzed the number, phenotypes, and functional molecules of γδ T cells in PBC patients (n = 74) and sex- and age-matched healthy controls (HCs) (n = 74) by flow cytometric analysis.
Results

We identified two distinct functional subsets of circulating γδ T cells according to the CD3/TCRγδ complex: the TCRγδhigh and TCRγδlow subsets. Approximately three-quarters of cells in the TCRγδhigh subset were Vδ1 T cells, while Vδ2 T cells were enriched in the TCRγδlow subset in HCs. The frequency and absolute number of circulating TCRγδlow cells was significantly decreased in PBC patients compared with HCs (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the frequency of TCRγδlow cells was negatively correlated with disease severity and positively correlated with the ursodeoxycholic acid response. TCRγδlow cells exhibited a similar apoptotic and proliferative phenotype but enhanced liver-homing chemokine receptor (CXCR6) expression in PBC patients compared with HCs. In addition, both TCRγδhigh and TCRγδlow subsets were more activated in PBC compared with HCs, characterized by elevated expression levels of CD69 and HLA-DR. Finally, we found an increased granzyme B (GZMB) production and similar IFN-γ and TNF-α production of TCRγδlow cells in PBC patients compared with HCs.
Conclusion

The TCRγδlow subset might be a potential marker for disease progression and treatment response in PBC, which may play a crucial role in liver injury through increased CXCR6 expression and GZMB production.
Investigating The Effects of Rainy Season On Open Cast Mining Operation: The Case of Wescoal Khanyisa Colliery
Authors: Tlhatlhetji Mashudu , Kolapo Peter
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of rainy season in open cast mining and possible factors that could contribute to production loses during these rainy periods. The major issue at Wescoal’s Khanyisa Colliery is the impact that rainfall has on the coal extraction process during the rainy season. The opencast mine operation loses a significant amount of time that is supposed to be used to run the mining value chain by trying to deal with the effects of the rainfall. This study made use of acquired data from Khanyisa Colliery between the period of December 2019 and January 2020 rainy months in South Africa. This data includes, the amount of daily and weekly rainfall, the water pumping rate, frequency of breakdowns and success rate of load and haul. The average weekly rainfall was found to be 69 mm over the 8 weeks of the summer season. However, the adopted method of managing the mine water was not efficient enough as a result of a low capacity pump and their pumping rate in comparison to the volume of water in the pit. This has affected some sections in the mine as productivity dropped due to reduction in loading and hauling activities from the pit to the stockpiles. In order to improve the productivity, the authors made some suggestions than can enhance production during rainy seasons.
A New Sequential Optimality Condition of Cardinality-Constrained Optimization Problem and Application
Authors: Pang Liping , Xue Menglong , Xu Na
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we consider the cardinality-constrained optimization problem and propose a new sequential optimality condition for the continuous relaxation reformulation which is popular recently. It is stronger than the existing results and is still a first-order necessity condition for the cardinality constraint problem without any additional assumptions. Meanwhile, we provide a problem-tailored weaker constraint qualification, which can guarantee that new sequential conditions are Mordukhovich-type stationary points. On the other hand, we improve the theoretical results of the augmented Lagrangian algorithm. Under the same condition as the existing results, we prove that any feasible accumulation point of the iterative sequence generated by the algorithm satisfies the new sequence optimality condition. Furthermore, the algorithm can converge to the Mordukhovich-type (essentially strong) stationary point if the problem-tailored constraint qualification is satisfied.
Polysaccharide From Laminaria Japonica Attenuates Radiation-Induced Xerostomia In Mice Via Activation of Nrf2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Siqin , Chen Shaoyong , ao Pian , Cai Rong , Xu Yang , Chen Chen , Nong Xiaolin , Wei Li
Published: September 2021

Background：Xerostomia is one of the most common complications during radiotherapy for head and neck cancer patients that seriously affects their quality of life. However, optimal treatment for radiation-induced xerostomia is currently unavailable. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Laminaria Japonica Polysaccharide (LJP) on radiation-induced xerostomia and decipher its underlying mechanism in mice.Methods：Male eight-week-old mice were randomly divided into four groups：normal control group, LJP control group, irradiation group, and irradiation with LJP treatment group. LJP (40mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected at 1 day before irradiation once daily for consecutive 5 days．The mice irradiated received a single radiation dose of 15Gy. Body weight, daily food and water intake were measured at 28 days post irradiation. Oxidative stress parameters (ROS and MDA) and antioxidant enzyme (MnSOD) in submandibular glands (SMG) were also assessed post irradiation. In addition, histopathology, function and weight of SMG were detected after irradiation. The expressions of Nrf2 pathway-related genes (Nrf2, HO-1 and NQO1) were measured using immunofluorescence or immunohistochemical staining and real-time PCR method. Results：Compared with the control group, irradiated mice showed increases in the levels of oxidative stress parameters (ROS and MDA), water intake and expression levels of Nrf2 pathway-related genes (Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1), and decreases in body weight, food intake, saliva flow. Nevertheless, LJP treatment significantly increased body weights, food intake, and saliva flow in irradiated mice, markedly downregulated oxidative stress levels, improved the morphology and structure of SMG, and further promote expressions of Nrf2 pathway-related genes.Conclusion: LJP treatment alleviated radiation-induced SMG oxidative stress injury through activating Nrf2 signaling pathway, implying that LJP might be a novel agent for treating radioactive xerostomia in the future.
Factors Affecting the Emotional Wellbeing of Women and Men Who Experience Miscarriage in Hospital Settings: A Scoping Review
Authors: Martina Galeotti , Gary Mitchell , Mark Tomlinson , Áine Aventin
Published: September 2021

Background - Miscarriage can be a devastating event for women and men that can lead to short- and long-term mental illness. Studies have reported associations between miscarriage and depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder in women. Men can also experience intense grief and sadness following their partner’s miscarriage. While numerous studies have reported hospital-related factors impacting the emotional wellbeing of parents experiencing miscarriage, there is a lack of review evidence which synthesises the findings of current research. Aims- The aim of this review was to synthesise the findings of studies of emotional distress and wellbeing among women and men experiencing miscarriage in hospital settings.Methods – A systematic search of the literature was conducted in October 2020 across three different databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE and PsycInfo) and relevant charity organisation websites, Google, and OpenGray. A Mixed Methods appraisal tool (MMAT) and AACODS checklist were used to assess the quality of primary studies.Results- Thirty studies were included in this review representing qualitative (N=21), quantitative (N=7), and mixed-methods (N=2) research from eleven countries. Findings indicated that women and men’s emotional wellbeing is influenced by interactions with health professionals, provision of information, and the hospital environment. Parents’ experiences in hospitals were characterised by a perceived lack of understanding among healthcare professionals of the significance of their loss and emotional support required. Parents reported that their distress was exacerbated by a lack of information, support, and feelings of isolation in the aftermath of miscarriage. Further, concerns were expressed about the hospital environment, in particular the lack of privacy. Conclusion –Women and men are dissatisfied with the emotional support received in hospital settings and describe a number of hospital-related factors as exacerbators of emotional distress. Implications for practice- This review highlights the need for hospitals to take evidence-informed action to improve emotional support services for people experiencing miscarriage within their services.
Reliability study of Visual Infusion Phlebitis Score Portuguese European version
Authors: Ventura David Rafael Pereira , Freitas José Alberto Silva , Lindo João Filipe Fernandes
Published: September 2021

Phlebitis is the most frequent complication associated with the use of Short Peripheral Catheters. The Visual Infusion Phlebitis Scale is a tool used to access the catheter insertions site and surrounding area, providing a score. The goal of this study was to translate and culturally adapt the VIP scale to European Portuguese in order to achieve a reliability score. Intra and inter-observer reliability studies were performed. The study was conducted at one Portuguese Hospital in a sample of 23 participants. The reliability score was assessed using Kendall's Tau = 0.925, Spearman's Rho = 0.926 and Cohen Kappa = 0.918.
Lenvatinib Inhibits Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Growth via Gadd45a-Mediated Cell Cycle Arrest
Authors: Yan Xia , Wang Dan , Zhuang Liping , Wang Peng , Meng Zhiqiang , Ning Zhouyu
Published: September 2021

Background: Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is the second most common primary liver cancer, and its 5-year survival rate is less than 10%. Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) changes have been observed in 6%-50% of ICC patients, and patients with FGFR mutations have been shown to have more inert tumour biological activity than patients with wild-type FGFRs. Thus, as a pan-FGFR inhibitor, lenvatinib is supposed to play an anti-tumour role in ICC. However, no relevant experiments have been reported.Methods: Patients derived xenograft (PDX) model and cell line derived xenograft (CDX) model were both used for the in vivo study. For in vivo work, ICC cell lines were applied to analyse the effect of Lenvatinib on cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and the molecular mechanism.Reaults: In the present study, we found that lenvatinib dramatically hindered in vivo tumor growth in ICC patient-derived xenograft models. In addition, by using in vitro experiments in ICC cell lines, we found that lenvatinib dose- and time-dependently inhibited the proliferation of ICC cells and induced cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase. Transcriptional profiling analysis further applied indicated that lenvatinib might inhibit cell proliferation through the induction of cell-cycle arrestment via activating of Gadd45a, it was evidenced by that the knockout of Gadd45a significantly attenuated the cycle arrest induced by lenvatinib, as well as the inhibitory effect of lenvatinib on ICC.Conclusion: Our work firstly found that lenvatinib exerted excellent antitumor effect on ICC, mainly via inducing Gadd45a mediated cell cycle arrest. Our work provides evidence and a rationale for the future use of lenvatinib in the treatment of ICC.
Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis of Colorectal Cancer Reveals Mir-20a as a Regulator of Fatty Acid Metabolism in Consensus Molecular Subtype 3
Authors: Song Kai , Liu Chao , Zhang Jiashuai , Yao Yang , Xiao Huiting , Yuan Rongqiang , Li Keru , Yang Jia , Zhao Wenyuan , Zhang Yanqiao
Published: September 2021

BackgroundmicroRNAs (miRNAs) serve important roles in metabolism. The consensus molecular subtype (CMS) 3 of colorectal cancer (CRC) is characterized by activated fatty acid (FA) metabolism. We aimed to identify essential miRNAs of CMS3-CRC and analyze the regulatory role in the FA metabolism. MethodsThe RobustRankAggreg method by integrating multi-omics data including genome, epigenome, transcriptome and interactome, was applied to filter out functional genes (Fgenes). The backward derivation approach based on Fgenes and miRNA-gene interactions was further applied to identify functional miRNAs (Fmirs). Nine human CRC cell lines with different CMSs were investigated. RT-qPCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence were performed to examine the effect of miR-20a on FA synthesis and Wnt/β-catenin signaling. The effect of miR-20a on cell proliferation and metastasis were studied by clone-formation, EdU assay, wound healing and transwell assay.ResultsWe identified 12 Fmirs by integrating multi-omics features in CMS3-CRC. These Fmirs exhibited significantly enriched CRC driver miRNAs and significant impacts on CMS3-CRC cell growth. Beyond the findings, miR-20a was significantly correlated with Wnt/β-catenin signaling and participated in FA metabolism subpathway. In vitro assays combined with bioinformatics analyses demonstrated that elevated miR-20a up-regulated FA synthesis enzymes FASN, ACAC and ACLY via Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and finally promoted proliferative and migration of CMS3-CRC cells. ConclusionsOverall, our study revealed that miR-20a promoted progression of CMS3-CRC by regulating FA metabolism and served as a potential target for preventing tumor metastasis.
Ante Mortem Cerebrospinal Fluid Levels of Calsyntenin-1 and Neurexin-2a Reflect Post-Mortem TDP-43 Pathology in a Pathological Cohort of Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration
Authors: Cervantes-González Alba , Irwin David J , Alcolea Daniel , McMillan Corey T , Chen-Plotkin Alice , Wolk David , Sirisi Sònia , Dols-Icardo Oriol , Querol-Vilaseca Marta , Illán-Gala Ignacio , Santos-Santos Miguel Angel , Fortea Juan , Lee Edward B , Trojanowski John Q , Grossman Murray , Lleó Alberto , Belbin Olivia
Published: September 2021

Background. Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) clinical diagnosis is challenged by the variable correspondence between the clinical syndrome and underlying neuropathological changes, the phenotypic overlap with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the lack of pathophysiologic diagnostic biomarkers. As synapse degeneration is an early event in pathological frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), a surrogate marker of synapse loss could be used to monitor early pathologic changes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of antemortem cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of 9 synaptic proteins with postmortem global tau and TDP-43 burden in a neuropathological FTLD cohort. Methods. We included patients with a neuropathological confirmation of FTLD-Tau (n=24, mean age-at-CSF 67 years+/-11), FTLD-TDP (n=25, 66 years+/-9) or AD (n=25, 73 years+/-6) as well as cognitively normal controls (n=35, 69 years+/-7) from the Penn FTD Center and ADRC. A subset of 39 FTLD patients presented without AD comorbidity (neurofibrillary tangle score of B0/B1 according to the NIA-AA classification) and 18 AD patients presented without TDP-43 comorbidity. We quantified the synaptic panel in antemortem CSF by targeted mass spectrometry using isotopically-labeled peptides as internal standards. We used a semi-quantitative measure of tau and TDP-43 inclusions to quantify pathological burden across 16 brain regions. Statistical methods included Spearman rank correlations, one-way analysis of covariance (controlling for sex and age-at-CSF), linear regression (controlling for age-at-death) and receiver-operating characteristic curves. Result. CSF calsyntenin-1 and neurexin-2a were correlated in all patient groups (rs=.55 to .88). In FTLD-TDP, we observed low antemortem CSF levels of calsyntenin-1 and neurexin-2a compared to AD (.72-fold, p=.001, .77-fold, p=.04, respectively) and controls (.80-fold, p=.02, .78-fold, p=.02, respectively), which were inversely associated with post-mortem global TDP-43 burden (regression r2=.36, p=.04 and r2=.35, p=.04, respectively). Neurexin-2a showed 75.0% (95% CI 60-88) accuracy to discriminate FTLD-TDP from controls. Calsyntenin-1 showed 75.1% (95% CI 62-87) accuracy to discriminate FTLD-TDP from AD. None of the synaptic proteins were altered in FTLD-Tau compared to controls (0.79 to 1.12-fold, p>.12) or associated with post-mortem global tau burden (r2=.12, p=.36). Comorbidity had a limited effect on these findings. Conclusion. CSF calsyntenin-1 and neurexin-2a have potential as objective measures of TDP-43-mediated degeneration in FTLD.
Elevated Expression of the RNA-Binding Protein IGF2BP1 Enhances the Mrna Stability and Translation Efficiency of INHBA to Promote the Invasion and Migration of Esophageal Squamous Cancer Cells
Authors: Wang Juan-Juan , Chen Ding-Xiong , Zhang Yu , Cai Yan , Xu Xin , Hao Jia-Jie , Wang Ming-Rong
Published: September 2021

Background: The mechanisms underlying the occurrence and development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains to be elucidated. The present study aims to investigate the roles and implications of IGF2BP1 overexpression in ESCC.Methods: IGF2BP1 protein expression in ESCC samples was assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and the mRNA abundance of IGF2BP1 and INHBA was analyzed with TCGA datasets and by RNA in situ hybridization (RISH). Cell viability, migration, invasion and in vivo metastasis assays were performed to explore the roles of IGF2BP1 overexpression in ESCC. RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (RIP-seq) and mass spectrometry were applied to identify the target RNAs and interacting proteins of IGF2BP1, respectively. RIP-PCR, RNA pulldown, immunofluorescence (IF), gene-specific m6A PCR and RNA stability assays were used to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying the malignant phenotypes of ESCC cells caused by IGF2BP1 dysregulation. The methylation level of the IGF2BP1 promoter region was detected by methylation-specific PCR (MSP-PCR). BTYNB, a small molecular inhibitor was evaluated for its inhibitory effect on the malignant phenotypes of ESCC cells.Results: IGF2BP1 overexpression was detected in ESCC tissues and associated with the depth of tumor invasion. Knockdown of IGF2BP1 inhibited ESCC cell invasion and migration as well as tumor metastasis. Mechanistically, we observed that IGF2BP1 bound and stabilized INHBA mRNA and then enhanced the translation of INHBA, leading to the activation of Smad2/3 signaling, thus promoting malignant phenotypes. The mRNA level of INHBA was upregulated in ESCC tissues as well. Furthermore, IGF2BP1 interacted with G3BP stress granule assembly factor 1 (G3BP1) and activated the INHBA-Smad signaling. BTYNB abolished this activated signaling and significantly attenuated the malignant phenotypes of ESCC cells. In addition, IGF2BP1 mRNA expression in ESCC cells was negatively correlated with the level of its promoter methylation.Conclusions: Elevated expression of IGF2BP1 is a frequent event in ESCC tissues and might be a candidate biomarker for the disease. IGF2BP1 overexpression promotes the invasion and migration of ESCC cells by activating the INHBA-TGF-β-Smad2/3 pathway, providing a potential therapeutic target for ESCC patients with high expression of IGF2BP1.
A Framework To Estimate Loss And Damage (L&D) To Floods In a Changing Climate, Using Capital-Based Approach
Authors: Bose Devdyuti , Mishra Trupti
Published: September 2021

Although there exist many mitigation and adaptation responses for disaster management, with specific reference to floods, still there are some residual impacts which arise from insufficient mitigation and inadequate adaptation, known as loss and damage (L&D). Literature has identified familiar methodologies, namely Damage and Loss Assessment, Post Disaster Needs Assessment, Catastrophe Simulation, Hazus-MH, and econometric models to quantify “loss” and “damage” separately, but, given that the starting point of L&D, being the livelihood vulnerability context of the individuals, there is a need for comprehensive approach to quantify residual “loss and damage” on the livelihood assets. This study has adopted a bottom-up approach, Sustainable Livelihood Framework and revised to provide the quantitative estimates of loss and damage of floods to the five types of capital assets (human, social, physical, financial, natural), at the individual level. A panel regression model can be used to determine the losses inflicted to each capital asset, which can be further used to derive first and second order loss and damage estimates for identifying room(s) for flood recovery interventions. A set of individual specific and community specific characteristics play an important role in determining the influence of floods on each indicator of each type of capital asset. However, this model can find differential impacts of different types of disaster in different regions across different individuals, depending on their exposure.
Intestinal and Mucosal Microbiomic Response to Oral Challenge of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia Coli in Weaned Pigs
Authors: Peng Shan-Shan , Li Yingjie , Chen Qiuhong , Hu Qi , He Ying , Che Lianqiang , Jiang Ping-Ping
Published: September 2021

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is closely associated with diarrhoea in children in resource-limited countries and of travellers’ diarrhoea. This study aims to investigate the change of ileal mucosal microbiome and ileal protein expression as well as their correlation in pigs by E. coli K88 (ETEC). Seven weaned male pigs were orally given 1 ×109 CFU of ETEC (ETEC, n = 7), and the other seven received saline (CON, n = 7). Ileal tissues were obtained 48 h after the ETEC challenge for both proteomic and mucosal microbiomic analyses. Nine proteins were altered in expression level in the ETEC group, including decreased expression of FABP1 and FABP6 involved in bile acid circulation. TLR-9 mediated pathway was also affected at transcription level with increased expression of SIGIRR and MyD88. Correlation analysis revealed correlations between the ileal proteins and mucosal bacterial taxa, including the positive correlation between Lactobacilli and PPP3CA (r = 0.9, p < 0.001), and negative correlation between Prevotella with CTNND1 (r = -0.7, p < 0.01). In conclusion, ETEC infection caused inflammation and impaired the circulation of bile acids, and the mucosal microbiome may affect the expression of intestinal proteins. Further studies are needed for exact roles of these affected processes in the pathogenesis of ETEC-triggered diarrhoea.
Impact of Estrogen Receptor Expression on Prognosis of Ovarian Cancer According to Antibody Clone Used for Immunohistochemistry: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Ng Chun Wai , Wong Kwong-kwok
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe prognostic value of the expression of estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes ER⍺ and ERβ in ovarian cancer has previously been evaluated by meta-analyses. However, the results are contradictory and controversial. MethodsWe conducted an updated meta-analysis with stringent inclusion criteria to ensure homogeneous studies to determine the effect of ER subtypes on ovarian cancer prognosis. Articles were retrieved by systematic search of PubMed and Web of Science for articles dated up to June 2021. Only studies with known hazard ratio (HR) and antibody clone for immunochemistry (IHC) were included. Pooled HRs with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for the effect of ER⍺ and ERβ expression on ovarian cancer patient progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).ResultsA total of 17 studies were included, of which 11 and 13 studies examined the relationships between ER⍺ expression and PFS and OS, respectively, and 5 and 7 studies examined the relationships between ERβ expression and PFS and OS, respectively. Neither ER⍺ expression (random-effects model; HR=0.99, 95% CI=0.83-1.18) nor ERβ expression (fixed-effects model; HR=0.94, 95% CI=0.69-1.27) was associated with PFS. Random-effects models showed that ER⍺ expression (HR=0.81, 95% CI=0.64-1.02) and ERβ expression (HR=0.75, 95% CI=0.50-1.13) were only marginally and not significantly associated with better OS. Subgroup analysis revealed that ER⍺ expression determined using antibody clone 1D5 (HR=0.75, 95% CI=0.64-0.88) and ERβ expression determined using ERβ1-specific-antibody clone PPG5/10 or EMR02 (HR=0.65, 95% CI=0.50-0.86) were associated with significantly better OS, but ER expression determined using other antibodies was not.ConclusionsBoth ER⍺ expression and ERβ expression determined using certain antibody clones are significantly associated with OS of ovarian cancer patients, which suggests that both ER subtypes are prognostic biomarkers for ovarian cancer. The findings of this study provide new insight into the impact of ER expression on ovarian cancer prognosis.
A novel Circular RNA circRBMS3 promote malignant tumor growth and metastasis through miR-424-eIF4B/YRDC axis
Authors: Gong Zhe , Shen Panyang , Wang Haitao , Zhu Jinjin , Wang Shengyu , Liang Kaiyu , xu Yining , Fan Shunwu , Shen Shuying , Fang Xiangqian , Liu Gang
Published: September 2021

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been shown to have critical regulatory roles in tumorigenesis. However, the contribution of circRNAs to OS (osteosarcoma) remains largely unknown.
Methods

CircRNA deep sequencing was performed to the expression of circRNAs between OS and chondroma tissues. The regulatory and functional role of circRBMS3 (a circRNA derived from exons 7 to 10 of the RBMS3 gene, hsa_circ_0064644) upregulation was examined in OS and was validated in vitro and in vivo, upstream regulator and downstream target of circRBMS3 were both explored. RNA pull down, a luciferase reporter assay, biotin-coupled microRNA capture and fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to evaluate the interaction between circRBMS3 and micro (mi)-R-424-5p. For in vivo tumorgenesis experiments, Subcutaneous and Orthotopic xenograft OS mouse models were built.
Results

Expression of circRBMS3 was higher in OS tissues due to the regulation of adenosine deaminase 1-acting on RNA (ADAR1), an abundant RNA editing enzyme. Our in vitro data indicated that ShcircRBMS3 inhibits the proliferation and migration of malignant tumor cells. Mechanistically, we show that circRBMS3 can regulate eIF4B and YRDC, through ‘sponging’ miR-424-5p. Furthermore, knockdown of circRBMS3 inhibited malignant phenotypes and bone destruction of OS in vivo.
Conclusions

Our results reveal an important role for a novel circRBMS3 in the growth and metastasis of malignant tumor cells and provide a fresh perspective on circRNAs in OS progression.
Identification and Pyramid of QTLs Based on Rice Short-wide Grain CSSL-Z414, SSSL, DSSL and Candidate Gene Analysis of qGL11 and qGW5
Authors: Li Juan , Yang Hongxia , Xu Guangyi , Deng Keli , Yu Jinjin , Xiang Siqian , Zhou Kai , Zhang Qiuli , Li Ruxiang , Li Miaomiao , Ling Yinghua , Yang Zhenglin , He Guanghua , Zhao Fangming
Published: September 2021

BackgroundMost of rice agronomic traits as grain length etc. are complex traits controlled by multiple genes. Chromosome segment substitution lines (CSSLs) are ideal materials for dissecting and studying of these complex traits. ResultsA rice short-wide grain CSSL Z414 was identified among progeny of the recipient parent Xihui 18 (an indica restorer line) and the donor parent Huhan 3 (a japonica cultivar). Z414 carried 4 substitution segments (average length was 3.04 Mb), and displayed shorter panicle length and less number of primary branches, shorter, wider and larger grain, higher brown rice rate and chalkiness degree when compared with Xihui 18. Then, 9 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for associated traits were identified using the secondary F2 population from Xihui 18 / Z414. Among them, 6 QTLs (qPL3, qGW5, qGL11, qRLW5, qRLW11, qGWT5) could be verified by corresponding single segment substitution lines (SSSLs, S1-S6). In addition, 4 QTLs (qGL3, qGL5, qCD3 and qCD5) were detected by S1 and S5, which was not detected by the F2 population. Thus, the grain length of Z414 was controlled by qGL11, qGL3 and qGL5, and the grain width of Z414 was answered by qGW5. Then by substitution mapping, qGL11 and qGW5 were delimited within the estimated substitution length of 1.42 and 1.14 Mb on chromosomes 11 and 5, and 4 and 2 candidate genes were found respectively for qGL11 and qGW5 by sequencing. However, only two had expression differences by qRT-PCR analysis. Finally, Analysis of QTL epistatic effects revealed that pyramid of qGL3 (a= 0.22) and qGL11 (a=-0.19) caused grain length of double segment substitution line (DSSL, D2) shorter than that of S5 (qGL11).ConclusionsWe developed a rice short –wide grain CSSL with 4 substitution segments from Huhan 3 based on the genetic backgrounds of Xihui 18. The grain width of Z414 was controlled by qGW5, and GS5 should be the candidate gene for qGW5 by sequencing and qRT-PCR analysis. The grain length of Z414 was controlled by qGL11, qGL3, and qGL5, and CycT1;3 should be the best candidate gene of qGL11, whose specific function of regulating grain length was still unknown, and qGL11 is epistatic to qGL3.
ZNF488 Enhances the Invasion and Metastasis through Activating the MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhang Yu-feng , Zhu Huan-feng , Wang De-jun , Jiang Ning , Gu Jia-jia , Wu Li-rong , Zhao Li-jun , Chen Cheng , Guo Ye-song , Feng Ji-feng , Zong Dan , He Xia
Published: September 2021

Background: This study aimed to explore the relationship between zinc finger protein 488 (ZNF488) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), as well as the function and mechanism of ZNF488 involved in the invasion and metastasis. Method：TCGA and HPA databases were used to analyze NSCLC data. Quantitative Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expression level of ZNF488 in tissues. 100 cases of NSCLC tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical staining (IHC) to evaluate the endogenous expression of ZNF488, and than analyze its correlation with clinical characteristics. After constructing ZNF488 stably overexpressing cell lines, wound healing test and transwell invasion assays were used to explore the invasion and migration ability of lung cancer cells in both ZNF488 over-expressing and the vector control cell lines. In vivo, we used ZNF488 over-expressing and the vector control cell lines to construct animal models of lung metastasis by tail vein injection. The gene chip technology was used to explore the differential genes between vector and ZNF488 over-expressing group. The DAVID database was used to analyze the differential genes by KEGG pathway MEK inhibitor AZD6244 was used to verify the potential signaling pathway. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels. Results：The expression of ZNF488 in NSCLC tissues was generally higher than that in normal lung tissues, and its expression level was significantly related to TNM stage, overall survival (OS), local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), and progression-free survival (PFS) (p<0.05). The results of functional and animal experiments showed that ZNF488 promoted the cell invasion and matastasis in NSCLC. In terms of mechanism, ZNF488 can induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in NSCLC by activating the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, thereby promoting the invasion and metastasis. MEK inhibitor AZD6244. could partially reverse ZNF488-induced invasive ability. Conclusion: As an independent prognostic indicator, ZNF488 can promote the invasion and metastasis by activating the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway in NSCLC .
Long Term Implications in Surgical Re-assisting (L.I.S.A. study) During Covid-19 Outbreak: A Retrospective Observational Study on a Rural Population.
Authors: Fabbri Nicolò , Pesce Antonio , Uccellatori Lisa , Greco Salvatore , D'Urbano Francesco , Marchetti Francesco , Rubbini Michele , Feo Carlo V
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe spread of the COVID-19 is having a worldwide impact on surgicaltreatment. Our aim was to investigate the impact of the pandemic in a rural hospital in a lowdensely populated area.MethodsWe investigated the volume and type of surgical operations during the pandemic(March 2020 - February 2021) versus pre-pandemic period (March 2019 - February 2020) aswell as during the first and second pandemic waves compared to the pre-pandemic period.We compared the volume and timing of emergency appendectomy and cholecystectomyduring the pandemic versus pre-pandemic period, the volume, timing and stages of electivegastric and colorectal resections for cancer during the pandemic versus the pre-pandemicperiod.ResultsIn the prepandemic versus pandemic period, 42 versus 24 appendectomies and 174versus 126 cholecystectomies (urgent and elective) were performed. Patients operated onbefore as opposed to during the pandemic were older (58 vs. 52 years old, p=0.006),including for cholecystectomy (73 vs. 66 years old, p=0.01) and appendectomy (43 vs. 30years old, p = 0.04).The logistic regression analysis with regard to cholecystectomy and appendectomy performedin emergency showed that male sex and age were both associated to gangrenous typehistology, both in pandemic and prepandemic period. Finally, we found a reduction in cancerstage I and IIA in pandemic versus prepandemic period, with no increase in the moreadvanced stages.Conclusionsthe reduction in services imposed by governments during the first months oftotal lock down did not justify the whole decrease in surgical interventions in the year of thepandemic. Data suggest that greater "non-operative management" for cases of appendicitisand acute cholecystitis does not lead to an increase in cases operated over time, nor to anincrease in the "gangrenous" pattern, which seems to depend on age advanced and malepopulation.
Characteristics of Macroalgal Consumption by Eight Herbivorous Coral Reef Fishes From the Xisha Islands, China, as Determined by Microscopy, 18S rRNA High-throughput Sequencing and Stable Isotope Analyses
Authors: Wu Peng , Wang Teng , Liu Yong , Li Chunhou , Xiao Yayuan , Xu Shannan , Han Tingting , Lin Lin , Quan Qiumei
Published: September 2021

Herbivorous fishes play an important role in controlling the overabundance of macroalgae on coral reefs. Understanding the feeding selectivity and consumption of macroalgae by herbivorous fishes can be challenging in studies of their ecological role in the preservation and recovery of coral reefs. Coral reef decline, macroalgal overgrowth and overfishing are clearly visible in the Xisha Islands, China. However, there have been no studies of the feeding behaviors of herbivorous fishes in this area. We used microscopy, 18S rRNA high-throughput sequencing and stable isotope analyses to comprehensively examine the dietary spectrum of eight herbivorous reef fish species common in the Xisha Islands, including one parrotfish, two chub, two unicorn fish and three rabbitfish. Multi-technique analyses of intestinal contents revealed that Kyphosus vaigiensis, Naso unicornis and Siganus argenteus showed a high consumption potential of macroalgae, suggesting that they are the key browsers which should receive priority protection in in the Xisha Islands. Kyphosus cinerascens, K. vaigiensis, N. unicornis and S. punctatissimus fed on the entire macroalgal thallus, indicating their greater ecological importance compared with species which only consume the algal fronds. However, Calotomus carolinus can consume the red alga Pneophyllum conicum, which is widely distributed on Indo-Pacific coral reefs and can overgrow and kill live corals. Clearly, a diverse herbivorous fish fauna is very important in the Xisha coral reefs. These results not only demonstrated the various functions of different herbivorous fish species in macroalgal removal, but also provided insights into the management of herbivorous fishes on the coral reefs of the South China Sea.
In vitro Gynogenic Plant Production in Allium tuncelianum (Kollman) Özhatay, Matthew & Şiraneci
Authors: Celebi-Toprak Fevziye , Ergun Zeynep , Alan Ali R.
Published: September 2021

Allium tuncelianum (Kollman) Özhatay, Matthew & Şiraneci forms a single-cloved edible white bulb with mild garlic (A. sativum) odour and taste. Its ability to form seeds make it suitable for genetic improvement via classical and modern approaches. A detailed study was carried out to determine the gynogenesis potential of two A. tuncelianum (AT1 and AT2) accessions. Unopened flower buds of A. tuncelianum accessions were cultured in various BDS- and MS-based induction media. A total of 17 (0.09%) gynogenic plantlets were obtained from ~20000 flower buds used in gynogenesis induction experiment. Accessions showed slight differences in their responses to gynogenesis induction cultures. The highest gynogenic plantlet production frequency (0.34 %) in AT1 was achieved flower buds cultured in T12 medium (MS with 100 g/L sucrose, 1 mg/L a-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 8 mg/L isopentenyl adenine (2IP). Flower buds of AT2 showed the highest gynogenic plantlet production response (0.44 %) in T2 medium (BDS with 50 g/L sucrose). Eight of 17 gynogenic plantlets continued to grow and became healthy plants with green leaves and well established roots. Flow cytometric (FCM) analysis of well-developed gynogenic plants showed that two were haploid (25 %), four were diploid (50 %), and two were mixoploid (25 %) for haploid and diploid cells. Nine gynogenic plantlets showing abnormal development were diploid. Therefore, formation of gynogenic plantlets with abnormal phenotypes was likely due to genetic factors. Results obtained from this study suggest use of DH technology in the production of homozygous A. tuncelianum inbreeds in variety improvement programs.
Natural History of Unruptured Vertebral Basilar Artery Dissection: Temporal Changes in Imaging Findings and Contributory Factors
Authors: masashi kuwabara , Sakamoto Shigeyuki , Okazaki Takahito , Mitsuhara Takafumi , Shimonaga Koji , Hosogai Masahiro , Maeda Yuyo , Kurisu Kaoru , Horie Nobutaka
Published: September 2021

PurposeTo investigate temporal changes in imaging findings of conservatively treated unruptured vertebral basilar artery dissection and its contributing factors.MethodsFifty-three patients who underwent conservative treatment for 64 cases of vertebral basilar artery dissection diagnosed between January 2006 and March 2019 and follow-up of at least 12 months after onset were retrospectively investigated. Statistical analyses of age, sex, medical history, pattern of onset, lesion site, imaging findings and changes over time, regular medication, and outcomes were performed. ResultsChanges in the vascular morphology of the lesion site during the follow-up period were observed in only 23 (43%) patients (median time until change: 19 days). Univariate analysis of factors contributing to morphological changes at the dissection site showed that changes were significantly more likely in younger patients (p = 0.011). Patients taking antiplatelet drugs had a significantly greater rate of deterioration at the dissection site (p = 0.028) than others. On multivariate analysis, age was an independent factor contributing to changes at the dissection site, and taking antiplatelet drugs, particularly clopidogrel, was an independent factor contributing to deterioration. No patient developed intracranial hemorrhage, cerebral infarction, or worsening of neurological symptoms during follow-up.ConclusionsMorphological changes at the dissection site are more likely in younger patients with unruptured vertebral basilar artery dissection and those taking antiplatelet drugs. However, chances of intracranial hemorrhage, cerebral infarction, or worsening of neurological symptoms during conservative therapy are low. Therefore, unruptured vertebral basilar artery dissection may be considered a benign condition.
Effect of Overlapping Eco-Friendly Cellulose Nanofibrils and Nanoclay Layers on Mechanical and Barrier Properties of Spray-Coated Papers
Authors: de Oliveira Maria Luiza Cafalchio , Mirmehdi Seyedmohammad , Scatolino Mário Vanoli , Júnior Mario Guimarães , Sanadi Anand Ramesh , Damasio Renato Augusto Pereira , Tonoli Gustavo Henrique Denzin
Published: September 2021

This work proposes to evaluate the effect of spray-coating in papers using eco-friendly cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and nanoclay (NC) on mechanical and barrier properties for application as reinforced bags. Sack kraft papers of 60 g m-² (C60) were coated with CNFs + CNFs/NC in 4 layers (L5), 40 g m-² of CNFs + CNFs/NC in 3 layers (L4), 30 g m-² with CNFs/NC in 2 layers (L3) and 10 g m-² of CNFs in 1 layer (L2), and compared to uncoated sack kraft papers with basis weight of 60 g m-² (C60), 80 g m-² (C80) and 120 g m-² (C120). The coated papers L2; L3; L4 and L5 obtained a decrease in water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of 3.5%; 17%; 14% and 14%, respectively, when compared to C60. Comparing L2 and L3, CNF layer induced lower contact angles on the coated paper than CNF/NC layer. When compared coated papers with C120, it was observed an increase of around 66% in tensile strength for L2, around 44% for L3, and decrease of ~ 18% for L5 coated papers. L4 achieved the same tensile strength (when divided by basis weight) than C120. L2 and L3 coated papers led to the highest values of Young’s modulus, with increase of 56% and 38%, respectively, when compared to C60. Spray-coating in the present conditions improved the mechanical and barrier properties of the coated papers, being a possible alternative to produce papers with lower basis weight and using renewable raw materials.
Regular Home Health Care Visits Reduce Health Expenditure Among Home Care Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study in a Community Hospital in Northern Taiwan
Authors: Chou Tzu-Jung , Peng Jen-Kuei , Chen You-Ling , Chang Hao-Hsiang , Lee Yi-Hsuan , Huang Kuo-Chin
Published: September 2021

Background: In response to the rapidly aging population with anticipated growth of chronic disabling diseases, the National Health Insurance program in Taiwan has established home health care services since 1995. Medically and functionally compromised elders with multiple chronic conditions, tend to have increased need for home health care (HHC) and higher medical costs. Our study aimed to identify health expenditure and its influencing factors among home care patients and to clarify whether regular HHC visits reduce health expenditure.Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study on individuals receiving HHC was conducted at National Taiwan University Hospital Bei-Hu Branch from 2010 to 2015. Patients aged < 20 years, did not receive HHC for at least 6 months, or did not receive regular hospital care at our healthcare system were excluded. The patient characteristics, health service utilization, and health expenditure were collected. Total health expenditure was defined as the sum of outpatient clinic, emergency department and hospitalization cost. Considering the distribution of costs data was highly skewed, a generalized linear model was applied to estimate the impact patient factors on healthcare expenditure.Results: A total of 1,285 home care patients, mean age 79.4±12.9 years and males 50.9%, were enrolled. The majority (85%) of the study population were totally dependent in daily activities with Barthel index 0-20, and had Charlson comorbidity index score≥4. The median monthly total expenditure per person was US$737 (IQR, 229-1,935), which broke down to US$414 (IQR,56-1,234) for hospitalization, US$170 (IQR,73-369) for outpatient clinic, and US$60 (IQR, 9-150) for emergency department. Home care patients with higher need for nursing services utilization (p<0.05), indwelling tracheostomy tube (p<0.05), underlying neoplasm (p<0.05), or registry of catastrophic illness certificate (p<0.001), had higher health expenditure. On the other hand, regular HHC visits significantly lowered total health expenditure (p<0.001).Conclusions: Patient characteristics that incurred higher health expenditure were identified, whereas regular HHC visits have a potential role to reduce expenditure in the disabled homebound population. The visit number and frequency of HHC should be taken into account when making reimbursement policy in order to provide a sustainable and cost-effective HHC program.