bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sphingomonas Negativus sp. nov., and Sphingomonas Gyeonggiense sp. nov., Bacteria Isolated From Soil in South Korea
Authors: Maeng Soohyun , Park Yuna , Damdintogtokh Tuvshinzaya , Oh Hyejin , Bang Minji , Sriniva Sathiyaraj , Kim Myung Kyum
Published: September 2021

Two novel Gram-staining-negative bacterial strains BT553T and BT552T were isolated from soil collected in Gyeonggi province, Korea. Phylogenetic analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that the strains BT553T and BT552T both belong to a distinct lineage in the genus Sphingomonas (family Sphingomonadaceae, order Sphingomonadales, class Alphaproteobacteria). Strain BT553T was closely related to Sphingomonas melonis DAPP-PG 224 T (98.1 % 16S rRNA gene similarity) and Sphingomonas aquatilis JSS7T (98.1%). Strain BT553T was closely related to Sphingomonas melonis DAPP-PG 224 T (98.2 %) and Sphingomonas aquatilis JSS7T (98.1%). The genome size of strain BT553T was 3,941,714 bp. Bacterial growth was observed at 10°C–30°C (optimum 25°C), pH 5.0–9.0 (optimum pH 7.0) in R2A agar and the presence of up to 2% NaCl. The genome size of strain BT552T was 4,035,561 bp. Bacterial growth was observed at 10°C–30°C (optimum 25°C), pH 5.0–9.0 (optimum pH 7.0) in R2A agar and in the presence up to 2% NaCl. The major cellular fatty acids of strains BT553T and BT552T were Summed Feature 3 and (16:1 ω 6c / 16:1 ω 7c), Summed Feature 8 (18:1 ω 7c / 18:1 ω 6c), and 14:0. In addition, their predominant respiratory quinone was Q-10. The major polar lipids of strain BT553T was identified to be diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylcholine (PC), and sphingoglycolipid (SL). The major polar lipids of strain BT552T was identified to be diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylcholine (PC), phospholipid (PL), and sphingoglycolipid (SL). Based on the biochemical, chemotaxonomic, and phylogenetic analyses, strains BT553T and BT552T are novel bacterial species within the genus Sphingomonas. The type strain of Sphingomonas negativus is BT553T (= KCTC 82095T = NBRC XXXXT) and the type strain of Sphingomonas gyeonggiense is BT552T (= KCTC 82094T = NBRC XXXXT).
Comparison of Surface Wind Speed and Wind Speed Profiles in the Taklimakan Desert
Authors: Xinchun Liu , yongde kang , Hongna Chen , Hui Lu
Published: September 2021

Near-surface (10 m) wind speed (NWS) plays a crucial role in many areas, including the hydrological cycle, wind energy production, and the dispersion of air pollution. Based on wind speed data from Tazhong and the northern margins of the Taklimakan Desert in Xiaotang in spring, summer, autumn, and winter of 2014 and 2015, statistical methods were applied to determine the characteristics of the diurnal changes in wind speed near the ground and the differences in the wind speed profiles between the two sites. The average wind speed on a sunny day increased slowly with height during the day and rapidly at night. At heights below 4 m the wind speed during the day was higher than at night, whereas at 10 m the wind speed was lower during the day than at night. The semi-empirical theory and Monin-Obukhov (M-O) similarity theory were used to fit the NWS profile in the hinterland of the Tazhong Desert. A logarithmic law was applied to the neutral stratification wind speed profile, and an exponential fitting correlation was used for non-neutral stratification. The more unstable the stratification, the smaller the n. Using M-O similarity theory, the “linear to tens of” law was applied to the near-neutral stratification. According to the measured data, the distribution of φM with stability was obtained. The γm was obtained when the near-surface stratum was stable in the hinterland of Tazhong Desert and the βm was obtained when it was unstable. In summer, γm and βm were 5.84 and 15.1, respectively, while in winter, γm and βm were 1.9 and 27.1, respectively.
Linking CO2 Emissions and Crop Production: Empirical Evidence from South Asian Countries
Authors: ul-Haq Zia , Mehmood Usman , Salman Tariq , Qayyum Fazzal , Azhar Ayesha , Nawaz Hasan
Published: September 2021

It is need of the hour to investigate the impacts of climate parameters on agricultural production in a developing region of South Asia. Therefore, this work attempts to explore the climatic indicators on agricultural production for selected South Asian countries over the annual data of 1961–2016. This study estimates the impacts of rainfall, temperature, rural population, land under cereal production, and CO2 emissions on agricultural production. For empirical analysis, we applied second-generation unit root tests. After examining the order of integration of time series, we check for the co-integration among the variables. Before the co-integration test, we check for cross-section dependence among the variables. CD and LM tests confirm the existence of cross-section dependence. Afterward, we apply Westerlud co-integration test to confirm the strong association among the variables. Further, we applied two methods for long-run coefficients of independent variables. DOLS and FMOLS tests were applied to cross-check the findings. Our findings show that rural population and rainfall are negatively associated with agricultural production. Moreover, temperature, land area under cereal production, and CO2 emissions are positively associated with agricultural production. Our findings shed light on some important policy implications for South Asian countries.
Ultrafiltration in Patients on Automated Peritoneal Dialysis with Homechoice Claria connected to Sharesource: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hsiao Yu-An , Tian Ya-Chung , Yen Tzung-Hai , Chang Ming-Yang , Lin Chan-Yu , Liu Shou-Hsuan
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Fluid overload is an unavoidable problem in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) and is associated with poor outcomes. The aim of our study was to estimate ultrafiltration (UF) under different dextrose concentrations and clarify possible predictors of UF.Materials and methods: Seventy patients, with 1848 daily treatment records and 8266 single dwells on automated PD through Homechoice Claria with Sharesource were followed in October 2020 and categorized into 2 groups according to the dextrose concentration (group D1.5% and D2.5%). Baseline characteristics, peritoneal membrane characteristics, and daily PD treatment records from Sharesource were obtained. We compared UF under the different conditions.Results: Multivariate linear regression revealed that the mean fill volume (FV) per cycle (p=0.006) and dextrose concentration (p=0.000) were independent predictors of UF. The mean night UF per cycle, the mean night UF corrected by FV per cycle, and the mean night UF corrected by FV and dwelling time (DT) per cycle were 95.8 ml, 5.5%, and 5.0 ‱/minutes in group D1.5% and 220.3 ml, 12.0%, and 11.6 ‱/minutes in group D2.5%, respectively. After an approximately 120-minute DT, there was a trend toward higher UF in the low peritoneal permeability group and lower UF in the high peritoneal permeability group.Conclusion: This retrospective study presents precise UF measurements with two solutions at different dextrose concentrations and four peritoneal transport levels. UF is positively correlated with DT and FV of the dialysate within a reasonable range. High peritoneal permeability is associated with decreased UF, and low peritoneal permeability requires a longer DT to reach the maximal UF.
The Resident Subsidy Impact on Regional Air Carrier Route Development: A Case Study
Authors: Martín-Cejas Roberto Rendeiro
Published: September 2021

Subsidizing air mobility for Canary Island residents may have an unforeseen impact on regional air carrier route development and this could exacerbate congestion in airports that operate near to their maximum threshold. Reginal routes often require the use of small aircraft such as those from the ATR (Avions de Transport Régional) family. These aircraft types have [some specific characteristics related to its time performance. If airports manage a large proportion of ATR aircrafts, one of their main activities, such as landing and taking off operations (LTO), may become congested, and affect airport capacity. Air carrier economies might be negatively affected because of delays in airport operations. For instance, air carriers’ fuel costs might rise due to aircraft’s increased LTO time. This paper seeks to analyze the impact of regional aviation route development for the Canary airport network; specifically, the effect that it has on airport capacity and air carrier economies.
Impacts of Thermal Heating Phosphogypsum on the Physiochemical Properties of Blast Furnace Slag Cement
Authors: Ahmed Bassam , Taher Mahmoud Ahmed , Amine Adel Mohamed
Published: September 2021

Within approximately 50 years, 1.0 × 108 tons of Phosphogypsum have already been produced and collected. Nearly 85 percent PG byproduct has been stored, only15 percent has been reprocessed. Lowering disposal of waste materials offers both environmental and economic advantages. Physical and chemical characteristics of Blast furnace slag cement after partial and full replacing of raw gypsum with samples prepared from BFSC-PG at various temperatures (200–1000°C) are formed by blending different proportions with PG have been studied. The results validated the application of calcined Phosphogypsum at 800 and 1000 degrees Celsius rather than raw gypsum in cement manufacturing.
Investigating the possibility of using recycled magazine paper in the production of newsprint with the aim of proper management of paper waste
Authors: Shahcheragh Seyedeh Fateme
Published: September 2021

In recent yr. due to reduced ligneous resources, increased demand for paper products, increased environmental concerns that are made from virgin papers production, and high volume of waste papers, the need for recycling of papers is felt more than ever. One of the important steps in the process of recycling paper is the deinking of waste papers. The purpose of this study is the deinking of the old magazine papers in order to produce newsprint. In the review, old magazine papers were deinked by Flotation method using: Sodium hydroxide (1%), Sodium silicate (2%), Hydrogen peroxide (1%), and DTPA (1%). Then they were bleached with an amount of Hydrogen peroxide (1/5%). 60 grams of paper was made under standard conditions for testing. Then the brightness of handmade papers was measured in three replicates. The result showed that the brightness of non-deinked papers was about 40%, after deinking it was about 50%, and after bleaching it was increased to about 60%. Results indicate that the use of Hydrogen peroxide and its derivatives in bleaching of waste papers are resulted in increasing brightness in several percent. By combining pulp prepared from recycled magazine paper with CMP pulp prepared from a broadleaf species, the results showed that the addition of deinked OMG significantly reduced the brightness of the control sample. Also, adding deinked magazine paper in any proportion to the mixture of imported CMP pulp and long fiber pulp (by increasing the opacity) improves the quality of the printed paper obtained. This recycled paper can be used in production papers that are used temporary and do not need high resistance (such as newsprints).
A Positive Correlation between Bacterial GC Content and Growth Temperature
Authors: Hu En-Ze , Lan Xin-Ran , Liu Zhi-Ling , Gao Jie , Niu Deng-Ke
Published: September 2021

Background: Because GC pairs are more stable than AT pairs, GC-rich genomes were proposed to be more adapted to high temperatures than AT-rich genomes. Previous studies consistently showed positive correlations between growth temperature and the GC contents of structural RNA genes. However, for the whole genome sequences and the silent sites of the codons in protein-coding genes, the relationship between GC content and growth temperature is in a long-lasting debate. Results: With a dataset much larger than previous studies (681 bacteria and 155 archaea), our phylogenetic comparative analyses showed positive correlations between optimal growth temperature and GC content both in bacterial and archaeal structural RNA genes and in bacterial whole genome sequences, chromosomal sequences, plasmid sequences, core genes, and accessory genes. However, in the 155 archaea, we did not observe a significant positive correlation of optimal growth temperature with whole-genome GC content or GC content at four-fold degenerate sites. We randomly drew 155 samples from the 681 bacteria for 1000 rounds. In most cases (> 95%), the positive correlations between optimal growth temperature and genomic GC contents became statistically nonsignificant (P > 0.05). This result suggested that the small sample sizes might account for the lack of positive correlations between growth temperature and genomic GC content in the 155 archaea and the bacterial samples of previous studies. Conclusions: This study explains the previous contradictory observations and ends a long debate. Bacteria growing in high temperatures have higher GC contents. Thermal adaptation is one possible explanation for the positive association. Meanwhile, we should be open to other intricate explanations, including nonadaptive ones.
Actin nucleation safeguards single-stranded DNA and promotes replication fork protection
Authors: Nieminuszczy Jadwiga , Martin Peter , Broderick Ronan , Krwawicz Joanna , Kanellou Alexandra , Bousgouni Vicky , Bakal Chris , Woodward Beth , Shackley Fiona , Aguilera Andrés , Stewart Grant , Vyas Yatin , Niedzwiedz Wojciech
Published: September 2021

Accurate genome replication is essential for all life and a key mechanism of disease prevention, underpinned by the ability of cells to respond to replicative stress and protect stalled replication forks. All such responses rely on the formation of Replication Protein A (RPA)-ssDNA complexes, yet supra-physiological binding of RPA to ssDNA is toxic. How cells regulate RPA availability to promote fork protection and genome stability is largely unknown. Here we establish that during replication excess RPA is sequestered by monomeric actin and released upon replicative stress through transition to polymeric actin state. Impairment in actin nucleation leads to RPA sequestration, deprotection of ssDNA generated at the stressed forks and consequently, catastrophic fork collapse and hypersensitivity to replication inhibitors. In line with this, we show that increasing RPA load is sufficient to restore efficient fork protection in actin polymerization mutants. Collectively, this work identifies a simple yet robust RPA-buffering mechanism regulating its availability to bind ssDNA and protect replication forks against nucleolytic degradation. Inhibition of this pathway could be of therapeutic interest in treatment of cancers.
Phthalate Exposure Enhances Incidence of Urinary Incontinence: US NHANES, 2003-2004 and 2005-2006
Authors: Yi Xianyanling , Jin Kun , Qiu Shi , Xiong Xingyu , Zhang Tianyi , Peng Ge , Liao Dazhou , Zheng Xiaonan , Xu Hang , Li Hong , Yang Lu , Wei Qiang , Ai Jianzhong
Published: September 2021

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the associations between phthalate exposure and UI in a nationally representative sample of US adults.Methods: Cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database was used for analysis. In total, 2,818 participants with measurements for phthalate metabolites and complete UI questionnaire data were enrolled in our study. Further, seven phthalate metabolites were measured, which were obtained from urine samples and creatinine-standardized in the subsequent analyses. After divided these phthalate metabolites into three groups, multivariable regression models were performed to evaluate the association between phthalate metabolites and UI rates. Moreover, interaction analyses and subgroup analyses stratified by gender were performed.Results: In these seven phthalate metabolites, high level of mono-carboxynonyl phthalate (MCNP), mono-carboxyoctyl phthalate (MCOP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP) and mono-3-carboxypropyl phthalate (MCPP) showed increased risk of UI [odds ratio (OR) = 1.52, 1.42, 1.43, 1.50, 1.51, respectively, all p value < 0.05]. Trend test showed that incidence of UI increased significantly with concentration. A higher incidence of UI among participants was observed in the maximal tertile of phthalate when comparing with the lowest tertile. Subgroup analysis found that different phthalates have varying influence for different types of UI. Moreover, the analyses stratified for sex indicated that the high concentrations of MCNP and median concentrations of MCCP were associated with increase of the odds of UI in women and in men, respectively.Conclusion: Overall, the exposure to phthalates was positively associated with UI among US adults. Notably, different phthalates have varying influence for different types of UI, and male and female exposure to phthalate could result in the different prevalence of UI.
Feasibility and Safety of Drug-Coated Balloon-Only Angioplasty for De Novo Ostial Lesions of Left Anterior Descending Artery: Two Center’s Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Chuang , Ding Xuebo , Wang Lefeng , Li Kuibao , Yang Xinchun , Liu Liping , Xu Li
Published: September 2021

Background:There is limited evidence of drug-coated balloon (DCB) only angioplasty in percutaneous treatment of complex de novo ostial coronary lesions. The major objective of our study is to explore the feasibility and test safety of this innovative approach in ostial lesions of left anterior descending artery (LAD). Methods:Patients treated with paclitaxel DCB or second-generation drug-eluting stent (DES) were retrospectively enrolled from two different large centers. The primary endpoints were defined as major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) composed of cardiovascular death, target lesion revascularization (TLR), target vessel revascularization (TVR), and recurrent myocardial infarction related to target artery occlusion. Cox regression analysis were used to identify risk factors for MACE and propensity score matching is performed to minimize the selection bias.Results:A total of 53 patients were treated with paclitaxel DCB and 336 patients with DES in ostial lesions of LAD were recruited. In accordance with propensity score matching, 49 patients treated with DCB-only coordinated with 49 ones with the strategy of DES. After average follow-up time of 10 months, the rate of MACE trended to lower in DCB-only angioplasty treatment arm and triggered by post-procedure TLR (MACE: 6% vs. 4%, p=0.65; TLR: 2% vs. 4%, p=0.56). Cox regression analysis indicated that not DCB-only angioplasty was considered as an independent risk factor for adverse events after adjustment for cofound risk factors (HR: 1.748, p=0.48).Conclusions:Use of DCB-only approach in treatment of isolated ostial LAD disease could be an innovative and safe strategy without additional risk of aggressive progression of left circumflex artery.
XLOC-040580, a Novel lncRNA, Modulates Porcine Zygote Activation Progress
Authors: Liu Mengxin , Li Enhong , Mu Haiyuan , Zhao Zimo , Gao Jie , Gao Dengfeng , Liu Zhiyu , Han Jianyong , Zhong Liang , Cao Suying
Published: September 2021

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in porcine preimplantation embryonic development, but the regulatory mechanism of lncRNAs during zygote activation (ZGA) remains unclear.Methods: We analyzed the transcriptome data of porcine fetal fibroblasts (PEF), porcine induced pluripotent stem cells (piPSCs) and embryos at different developmental stages before implantation, and found that lncRNAs specifically expressed at ZGA stage including XLOC-040580, and further predicted its target genes TPRA1 and BCL2L1. XLOC-040580 was knocked down by microinjection and the expression of ZGA related genes was detected by qRT-PCR. Microinjection of siRNA corresponding to target genes at the 1-cells, the blastocyst development rate was counted, and single cell sequencing was performed to analyze the regulatory network of target genes and its related mechanisms.Results: By analyzing the transcriptome data of porcine preimplantation embryos, we found that XLOC-040580 was specifically expressed during zygote activation. Knockdown of XLOC-040580 resulted in decreased blastocyst development rate, total blastocyst cell number and TE cell number. XLOC-040580 target genes TPRA1 and BCL2L1 are also specifically expressed in ZGA stage. The knockdown of XLOC-040580 target genes also blocked porcine embryonic development and affected the gene expression of ZGA-related pathways such as cell cycle, histone modification and trophoblast formation during porcine embryonic development.Conclusion: We found and confirmed that lncRNA XLOC-040580 played a key role in the ZGA process, and its target genes (TPRA1, BCL2L1) also coordinated early embryonic development.
A Comparison of Blood Plasma Exosome Enrichment Strategies for Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Turner Natalie P. , Abeysinghe Pevindu , Cheung Keith A. Kwan , Vaswani Kanchan , Logan Jayden , Sadowski Pawel , Mitchell Murray D.
Published: September 2021

Proteomic analysis of exosomes (EX) poses a significant challenge. A ‘gold-standard’ method for plasma EX enrichment for downstream proteomic analysis is yet to be established. Our group has performed a comprehensive study of multi-dimensional enrichment methods to determine their efficiency for protein isolation. Methods were evaluated for their capacity to a) successfully isolate and enrich EX from blood plasma, b) minimise the presence of highly abundant plasma proteins, and c) result in the optimum representation of EX proteins by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Blood plasma from four animals (Bos taurus) of similar physical attributes and genetics were used. Three methods of EX enrichment were utilised: ultracentrifugation (UC), size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), and ultrafiltration (UF). These enrichment methods were combined to create four groups for methodological evaluation: UC+SEC, UC+SEC+UF, SEC+UC and SEC+UF. UC+SEC yielded the highest number of protein IDs. Plasma protein identification was the least in SEC+UC, but this method yielded the lowest number of protein IDs overall. UC+SEC+UF decreased EX protein ID and did not improve purity compared to UC+SEC. Our data suggest that the method and sequence of EX enrichment strategy impacts protein ID, which may influence the outcome of biomarker discovery studies.
The perioperative outcomes of robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion compared with laparoscopic radical cystectomy with extracorporeal urinary diversion at a single institution.
Authors: Suzuki Atsuto , Muraoka Kentaro , Tatenuma Tomoyuki , Osaka Kimito , Yokomizo Yumiko , Hayashi Narihiko , Hasumi Hisashi , Ito Yusuke , Kondo Keichi , Nakaigawa Noboru , Makiyama Kazuhide
Published: September 2021

Background
The number of facilities adapting intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) using robots instead of extracorporeal urinary diversion (ECUD) is increasing, but the clinical evidence is limited.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 26 consecutive patients who underwent ICUD with an ileal conduit following robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) between 2018 and 2020 (RARC + ICUD group), and compared them with 26 consecutive patients who underwent ECUD with an ileal conduit following laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) between 2012 and 2019 (LRC + ECUD group) at Yokohama City University.
Results
In both groups, the patient background was similar except for age and neoadjuvant chemotherapy. In the RARC + ICUD group vs. the LRC + ECUD group, the median total operation time was 516 min vs. 532.5 min (p = 0.217), the time to cystectomy was 163 min vs. 194.5 min (p = 0.007), and the time of urinary diversion with an ileal conduit was 161 min vs. 201.5 min (p < 0.001). The postoperative maximum value of C-reactive protein was 6.98 mg/L vs. 12.46 mg/L (p = 0.001). The median number of days to oral intake was 3 days vs. 5 days (p = 0.003). The median length of hospital stay was 17 days vs. 32 days (p < 0.001). The postoperative complication rate (within 90 days) was 23.1% vs. 42.3% (p = 0.237). Clavien-Dindo classification ≥ 3 was noted in 1 vs. 4 patients (p = 0.350). The median number of dissected lymph nodes was 20 vs. 15 (p = 0.008).
Conclusions
RARC + ICUD was superior to LRC + ECUD in terms of time to cystectomy and ileal conduit urinary diversion, invasiveness, and lymph node dissection. We consider ICUD with an ileal conduit following RARC to be the more advantageous procedure.
Spine MRI Patterns And Predictors of Disability In Patients With Lower Back Pain. A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North West Ethiopia. 2020.
Authors: Gebrewold Yonathan , Tesfaye Bati
Published: September 2021

Background: Low back pain (LBP) has become one of the most serious public health problems with substantial socioeconomic implication. Degenerative disc disease one of the commonest cause of LBP. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is routinely utilized in evaluation patients with degenerative changes of the lumbar spine. However there are contradictors reports with regards to association of MRI findings of lumbar spine and patients’ symptoms.Objective: This study is aimed determine correlation of degree of disability with lumbar spine MRI findings in patients with LBP at University of Gondar comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UoGCSH), North West Ethiopia, 2020.Methods and Materials. A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 72 consecutively enrolled patients with lower back pain who underwent lumbar MRI scan. Degree of disability was measured using Oswestry disability Index (ODI) questionnaire translated to local language. Association between lumbar spine MRI parameters and ODI score and category was tested using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient and Chi square tests. Results The mean age the study subjects was 43.81±1.88 years (range 22-83 years). 59.7% of the study population were Female. In terms of ODI category, most fell under minimal and moderate disability 33 (45.8%) and 25(34.7%) respectively. Disc bulge (81.9%) and foraminal stenosis were the most frequent MRI abnormalities detected. ODI score showed weak correlation with grade of spinal canal stenosis. Foraminal stenosis grade was not correlated ODI.Conclusion: The clinical relevance of MRI findings in patients with degenerative disc disease is limited and MRI should be sparingly ordered in evaluation of these patients particularly in resource constrained settings.
Applying Four-Steps Characteristic Ion Filtering with HPLC-QE Orbitrap MS Approach to Rapid Characterize Compound Structure s and Determine Major Representative Components in Modified Tabusen-2 Decoction
Authors: Zhao yu , Dong xin , Feng qianxi , Dong rui , Bu ren , Xue Peifeng , Qu bi
Published: September 2021

Background: Modified Tabusen-2 decoction (MTBD) is Traditional Chinese Mongolia Medicine, it is consist of “Lancitou” “Duzhong” “Sanqi” and “Honghua”. MTBD is mainly used to treat osteoporosis. However, the precise material basis of this prescription is not yet fully elucidated, which affects its modernization developmentMethods: We establish a new HPLC-QE Orbitrap MS technology with four-steps characteristic ion filtering (FSCIF) strategy to quickly and effectively identify the structural features of MTBD, and determine the representative compounds content. Then the quantitative method of nineteen main components in MTBD were built, and eight batches MTBD were determined as well. Results: By using the FSCIF strategy, a total of 143 compounds were unambiguously or tentatively identified, including 5 compounds were first reported in MTBD. Nineteen representative components were simultaneously quantified by HPLC-QE Orbitrap MS, and it is suitable for eight batches of MTBD. Methodology analysis showed that the assay method of 19 compounds (including three pairs of isomers) with a good repeatability, accuracy, and stability. Conclusion: The method established above was successfully applied to assess the quality of MTBD extracts, which prove that the concentrations of 19 compounds varied significantly in different batches of MTBD extracts. Collectively, our findings enhance our molecular understanding of the MTBD formulation and will allow us to control its quality in a better way. At the same time, this study can promote the development and utilization of ethnic medicine.
Up-Regulated Galectin-1 in Angiostrongylus Cantonensis L5 Reduces Body Fat and Increases Oxidative Stress Tolerance
Authors: Sun Weiwei , Yan Xiumei , Qiao Aijun , Zhang Yuanjiao , Yang Ling , Huang Huicong , Shi Hongfei , Yan Baolong
Published: September 2021

Background: Angiostrongylus cantonensis L5, parasitizing in human cerebrospinal fluid, leads to eosinophilic meningitis, which is attributed to tissue inflammatory responses caused primarily by high percentage of eosinophils. Eosinophils are also involved in helminthic killing, using the peroxidative oxidation and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generated by dismutation of superoxide produced during respiratory burst. In contrast, helminthic worms have evolved to attenuate eosinophil-mediated tissue inflammatory responses for their survival. In previous study, we have demonstrated the extracellular function of Acan-Gal-1 in inducing the apoptosis of macrophages. And here, the intracellular functions of Acan-Gal-1 were investigated with the aim to further reveal the mechanism of A. cantonensis L5 worms surviving in the central nervous system of human from inflammatory responses. Methods: Bioinformatics were used to analyse the structural characterisation of Acan-Gal-1; qRT-PCR and microinjection were performed to detect the expression patterns of Acan-gal-1; microinjection was performed to construct transgenic worms; oxidative stress assay and Oil Red O fat staining were used to determine the functions of Acan-Gal-1.Results: The results showed that Acan-Gal-1 was expressed ubiquitously and mainly localized in cuticle, and it was up-regulated in both L5 and adult worm. N2 worms expressing pCe-Acan-gal-1::Acan-gal-1::rfp, with lipid deposition reduced, were significantly resistant to oxidative stress. lec-1 mutant worms, with lipid deposition increased, showed susceptible to oxidative stress, and this phenotype could be rescued by expressing pCe-Acan-gal-1::Acan-gal-1::rfp. And fat-6;fat-7 double-mutant worms expressing pCe-Acan-gal-1::Acan-gal-1::rfp showed no significant changes in oxidative stress tolerance.Conclusion: In C. elegans worms, up-regulated Acan-Gal-1 plays a defensive role against damage due to oxidative stress for worm survival through reducing fat deposition. And this might indicate the mechanism of A. cantonensis L5 worms, with Acan-Gal-1 up-regulated, surviving in the central nervous system of human from immune attack of Eosinophil.
The Changes of Cancer Patients' Perception, Attitude and Clinical Practice in Complementary and Alternative Medicine during COVID-19: A Multicenter Before-After Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Yichao , Yang Geliang , Gu Zhan , Wang Chengyan , Zhang Huiqing , Xu Ling
Published: September 2021

Background: With the rapid spread of COVID-19 worldwide, the clinical practice in cancer treatment of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) becomes significantly different. This study was designed to explore the changes of China’s cancer patients’ perception, attitude and clinical practice in CAM after the pandemic of COVID-19. Methods: A multicenter before-after cross-sectional study was conducted, including 448 cancer patients by a survey. Results: For perception, half of the cancer patients (51.2%) reported they had received adequate information in CAM cancer treatment and had a great expectation in medical appointment pattern (40.2%). For attitudes, most of the cancer patients (79.4%) had full of confidence in CAM cancer treatment and showed a strong desire to learn more about CAM (70.2%). Nearly half of the cancer patients (44.0%) presented their oncology clinics had been greatly affected by COVID-19, however, most (82.8%) refused to the online medical service pattern. For clinical practice, Chinese herbal medicine was widely used before (89.5%) / after (90.3%) the epidemic of COVID-19 and the main purpose of receiving CAM therapy was to improve immune system (71.8%). The frequency of patients’ visiting the clinic decreased significantly (P < 0.001), and most (90.0%) didn’t change their follow-up pattern. The majority of the cancer patients (83.3%) were identified as CAM users and the only predictive factor was national health insurance in the multivariable logistic regression model. Conclusion: China’s cancer patients show more interest and confidence in treating cancer by CAM, and the new medical pattern such as medical appointment, has been gradually accepted during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the cancer patients’ perception in CAM and online medical service pattern still need to be improved.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra and Platycodon Grandiflorus are Alternative Treatment Options for Vocal Fold Nodules
Authors: Lee I-Yun , Chang Shen-Fu , Wu Chin-Yuan , Lin Yu-Shi , Tsai Yao-Te , Tsai Ming-Shao , Chang Geng-He , Yang Ming-Yu , Yang Yao-Hsu , Yang Pei-Rung , Hsu Cheng-Ming
Published: September 2021

Background: Vocal fold nodules (VFN) are one of the main causes of hoarseness. In this study, we try to figure out an alternative treatment from our clinical experience summary.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed VFN patients who received traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments from July 2018 to August 2020 and traced their Chinese Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-C10) and multidimensional voice program (MDVP) analysis results. Also, we induce inflammatory response of porcine vocal fold epithelial (PVFE) cells with 50 ng/mL TNF-alpha. The inflamed PVFE cells were separately cultured in the aqueous extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra and Platycodon grandiflorus. Results: For these patients (n = 22), the average VHI-C10 score decreased from 17.6 to 6.6 (p < 0.001). MDVP analysis revealed improvements in jitter, shimmer, noise–harmonic ratio, and GRBAS scoring system. Analysis of prescription patterns revealed that the most commonly used herbs were Licorice and Platycodon grandiflorus. In the MTT assay of PVFE cells, no adverse effects of our extracts were observed at doses of 1­–200 ug/mL. Western blot analysis revealed downregulation of p65 and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway proteins.Conclusions: The results from both the clinical and in vitro aspects of this study revealed that the herbs G. glabra and P. grandiflorus may offer beneficial outcomes as alternative treatments for VFNs.
Phytochemical Analysis, Computational Modeling and Experimental Evaluations of Avicennia Marina Anti-cancer Activity on Breast, Ovarian and Cervical Cancer Cell Lines Running Title: Anti-cancer Activity of Avicennia Marina
Authors: Afshar Alireza , Khoradmehr Arezoo , Zare Masoud , Baghban Neda , Mohebbi Gholamhossein , Barmak Alireza , Khatami Mohsen , Mahmudpour Mehdi , Daneshi Adel , Bargahi Afshar , Azari Hossein , Nabipour Iraj , Ullah Mujib , Anvari Morteza , Tamadon Amin
Published: September 2021

Background: Avicennia marina, the gray mangrove, is an herbal source of bioactive anti-cancer compounds.Purpose: The present study aimed to evaluate phytochemical compositions of ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of A. marina leaves and experimental study and computational modeling of their anti-cancer activity on breast, ovarian and cervical cancer cell lines.Study design: Phytochemical analysis, computational modeling and experimental in vitro evaluationMethods: Phytochemical analysis and GC-MS analysis were used to detect phenolic and flavonoid contents in ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of A. marina leaves. Cell proliferation, viability, cycle and western blot assays of the extracts were performed on MCF-7, OVCAR3, and HeLa. Computational modeling done to detect effective compounds.Results: The extracts of A. marina leaves had high phenolic and flavonoid contents. In GC-MS analysis of the extracts, anti-cancer and anti-proliferative compounds were detected. Moreover, after treatment of MCF-7, OVCAR3, and HeLa, separately, the MTT assay, cell proliferation assay, and cell viability assays showed anti-proliferative activity, decreasing of cell population and decreasing cell viability, respectively. In addition, the cell cycle analysis showed that the S phase of the cell cycle increased in MCF-7. Moreover, the western blot analysis showed that the pro-apoptotic cell effectors such as Bax and caspase-1, -3, and -7 increased. Computational results of affinity of ligands detected by GC-MS compounds and stimulated apoptosis effectors detected by western blot showed five molecules in A. marina leaves playing role in OVCAR3 and HeLa apoptosis.Conclusion: The extracts of A. marina leaves have anti-cancer effects on breast, ovarian and cervical cancer cells via cell cycle arrest or apoptotic mechanisms.
Anxiety and Depression Among Children With Epilepsy Attending in Neurology Department of Yalagdo Ouedraogo University Teaching Hospital (Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso)
Authors: Dabilgou Alfred Anselme , Kyelem Julie Marie Adeline , Bagué Boubacar , Dravé Alassane , Sawadogo Isidore , Napon Christian , Millogo Athanase , Karfo Kapouni , Kaboré Jean
Published: September 2021

Background Children with epilepsies (CWE) show an increased prevalence of comorbid depressive and anxiety disorders.Patients and Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study on children with epilepsy aged 7 to 19 years attending neurology consultations at YOUTH during the period from May 06 to August 6, 2019. STAIc Anxiety Scale and Child Depression Inventory were performed in all the patients. Results: The mean age of children with epilepsy was 10.86 ± 3.30 years with male predominance. The mean STAIc score was 34.71 ± 6.58. Anxiety was observed in 42.2% of cases with male predominance. Anxiety was mild to moderate in 42.2% of cases. The risk factors for anxiety were the educational status (p-0.01) and epilepsy duration (p-0.02). The mean CDI score was 11.66 ± 5.76. Depression symptoms were observed in 26.7% of patients. Mild depression was present in all of cases. The risk factors for depression were the level of education (p = 0.01) and the duration of epilepsy (p = 0.008).Conclusion:Anxiety and depression were common in children with epilepsy in Burkina Faso. The risk factors for anxiety and depression were educational status and epilepsy duration.
Impute the Missing Data Using Retrieved Dropouts
Authors: Wang Shuai , Hu Haoyan
Published: September 2021

Background: In the past few decades various methods have been proposed to handle missing data of clinical studies, so as to assess the robustness of primary results. Some of the methods are based on the assumption of missing at random (MAR) which assumes subjects who discontinue the treatment will maintain the treatment effect after discontinuation. The agency, however, has expressed concern over methods based on this overly optimistic assumption, because it hardly holds for subjects discontinuing the investigational product (IP). Although in recent years a good number of sensitivity analyses based on missing not at random (MNAR) assumptions have been proposed, some use very conservative assumption on which it might be hard for sponsors and regulators to reach common ground.Methods: Here we propose a multiple imputation method targeting at “treatment policy” estimand based on the MNAR assumption. This method can be used as the primary analysis, in addition to serving as a sensitivity analysis. It imputes missing data using information from retrieved dropouts defined as subjects who remain in the study despite occurrence of intercurrent events. Then imputed data long with completers and retrieved dropouts are analyzed altogether and finally multiple results are summarized into a single estimate. According to definition in ICH E9 (R1), this proposed approach fully aligns with the treatment policy estimand but its assumption is much more realistic and reasonable. Results: Our approach has well controlled type I error rate with no loss of power. As expected, the effect size estimates take into account any dilution effect contributed by retrieved dropouts, conforming to the MNAR assumption.Conclusions: Although multiple imputation approaches are always used as sensitivity analyses, this multiple imputation approach can be used as primary analysis for trials with sufficient retrieved dropouts or trials designed to collect retrieved dropouts.
A Case of Ectopic Odontogenic Ghost Cell Tumor: Histogenetic Features of a New Entity
Authors: Noda Yuri , Ohe Chisato , Ishida Mitsuaki , Okano Kimiaki , Sando Kaori , Hada Naoya , Ebisu Yusuke , Fujisawa Takuo , Yagi Maso , Iwai Hiroshi , Tsuta Koji
Published: September 2021

Background: Odontogenic tumors arising from extra-alveolar sites are extremerly rare. Dentinogenic ghost cell tumor (DGCT) is an uncommon odontogenic neoplasm characterized by CTNNB1 mutation, ghost cell appearance, and dentinoid-like calcification. We present a case of an ectopic DGCT arising from a calcifying odontogenic cyst in the floor of the mouth. Case presentation: A 72-year-old man presented with a painless sublingual swelling. Imaging revealed a multi-lobulated, solid-cyst mass on the floor of the mouth. Cytology showed folded epithelial clusters composed of basaloid cells, keratinized material, and dentinoid matrix. Histology also revealed a multi-cystic, cribriform to solid nest. Immunohistochemically, CK19, CK5/6, bcl-2, and p63 were diffuse positive. CTNTTB1 mutation was detected, leading to the final diagnosis of an ectopic DGCT. There was no recurrence during a 6-month follow-up. Conclusion: This is the first report to comprehensively describe the clinicopathological features of an ectopic DGCT of odontogenic origin, developing similarly to that of a true odontogenic DGCT. Accurate diagnosis of this rare entity is necessary to avoid overtreatment.
Management and Burden of Acute Migraine at the Emergency Department in Southwest China: a Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhang Yang , Ge Wenjing , Chen Ning , Guo Jian , Zhou Muke , He Li
Published: September 2021

Background:Migraine is the most common cause of headache patients for medical consultation to emergency department (ED). However, the management and cost of those patients are less known. Our study aimed to survey detailed diagnosis, clinical characteristics, management, and cost of migraine patients in the emergency department in ChinaMethods:We performed a retrospective study from April 1, 2014, and September 31, 2020, at West China Hospital. This study enrolled patients with migraine diagnoses and analyzed their investigations, medical treatment and cost during their stay at ED. Results:Our study included 300 patients, 77.3% were female and the mean age was 38 years. 36% were conducted cranial CT scan. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were the most used at ED. We found that none of the patients received triptans nor prophylaxis medicine. The mean cost of emergency room visits was 57.17USD.Conclusion:Our study found that most migraine patients who came to the ED were not receiving the evidence-based acute treatment. A timely referral system should be established to minimize the disease costs of patients.
Impact of Long-term Endurance Performance on Muscles Stiffness in Marathon Runners Over 50 Years Old
Authors: Maćkała Krzysztof , Mroczek Dariusz , Chmura Paweł , Konefał Marek , Pawlik Damian , Chmura Jan , Paleczny Bartłomiej , Seredyński Rafał , Wyciszkiewicz Małgorzata , Nowicka-Czudak Adrianna , Łopusiewicz Wojciech , Chromik Krystyna , Adamiec Dorota , Wiecha Szczepan , Ponikowski Piotr , Ponikowska Beata
Published: September 2021

The aim of this research is to evaluate marathon performance and asses the influence of this long-distance running endurance exercise on the changes of muscle stiffness in recreational runners aged 50 + years. Thirty-one male long-distance runners aged 50–73 years participated in the experiment. The muscle stiffness of quadriceps and calves was measured in two independent sessions: the day before the marathon and 30 min after the completed marathon run using a Myoton device. The 42.195-km run was completed in 4.30,05 h ± 35.12 min, which indicates an intensity of 79.3% ± 7.1% of HRmax. The long-term, low-intensity running exercise (marathon) in older recreational runners, along with the low level of HRmax and VO2max showed no statistically significant changes in muscle stiffness (quadriceps and calves). There was reduced muscle stiffness, but only in the triceps of the calf in the dominant (left) leg. Moreover, in order to optimally evaluate the marathon and adequately prepare for the performance training programme, we need to consider the direct and indirect analyses of the running economy, running technique, and HRmax and VO2max and DOMS variables. These variables significantly affect the marathon exercise.
Ocular Surface Disease Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma Patients and Their Relation to Glaucoma Medication in Finland
Authors: Parkkari Minna , Purola Petri , Uusitalo Hannu
Published: September 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence of ocular surface disease (OSD) signs and symptoms of glaucoma patients in relation to topical glaucoma treatment and to compare them to non-glaucomatous population. Methods: A multicenter, cross-sectional study consisting of private ophthalmology clinic visits in southern Finland. Glaucoma patients had a diagnosis of primary open-angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, pigmentary glaucoma or treated ocular hypertension. Control patients had no prior or current use of glaucoma medication. Recorded parameters included OSD signs and symptoms, used glaucoma medications during the past 6 months, and the product name and type of used antiglaucoma drugs.Results: Glaucoma patients (n = 564) showed higher severity of OSD sign parameters excluding Schirmer’s test, as well as increased dry eye sensation compared to controls (n = 51). Beta-blockers and preservative-free prostaglandins had the smallest effect on all parameters. The increasing number of active compounds and administered eye drops per day showed an association with increasing severity of OSD signs and symptoms.Conclusion: Glaucoma patients show higher prevalence of OSD signs and dry eye sensation compared to non-glaucomatous population. The use of preserved glaucoma medication, as well as high number of active compounds and eye drops increase the severity of these parameters. There are significant differences between the types of glaucoma medication used, and therefore the selection of them is important especially in patients suffering from OSD.