bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CREENCIAS DE COMPORTAMIENTO, NORMATIVAS Y DE CONTROL ACCESIBLES EN LA INTENCIÓN DE BÚSQUEDA DE AYUDA DE JÓVENES UNIVERSITARIOS CON CONSUMO RIESGOSO Y PERJUDICIAL DE ALCOHOL
Authors: Romero Reyes Daniela , Moriano León Juan Antonio , Ybarra Sagarduy José Luis
Published: August 2021

Objetivo. Identificar las creencias de comportamiento, normativas y de control sobre la búsqueda de ayuda en universitarios con consumo riesgoso y perjudicial de alcohol, comparar diferencias en la intención de búsqueda de ayuda según la presencia o ausencia de cada creencia, conocer diferencias entre género en la intención de búsqueda de ayuda y describir la relación entre género y creencias. Método. Enfoque cuantitativo, estudio descriptivo, correlacional, ex post facto; de 1135 universitarios, 126 presentaron consumo riesgoso, 114 de ellos conformaron la muestra final que completó el AUDIT y un Cuestionario para identificar creencias sobresalientes. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó U de Mann Whitney y Chi2. Resultados. Aquellos jóvenes con la creencia de aprender a regular el consumo mostraron una intención de buscar ayuda significativamente mayor que los que no la presentaban. Se encontró una relación estadísticamente significativa entre género y las creencias aprender a regular el consumo y prejuicios de la sociedad. Conclusiones. Es importante acceder a las creencias sobresalientes para elaborar estrategias de promoción de intervenciones en comunidades universitarias; se aporta evidencia sustentada en la Teoría de la Acción Planificada sobre las creencias subyacentes a la intención de búsqueda de ayuda.
A Low-Sample-Count, High-Precision Pareto Front Adaptive Sampling Algorithm Based on Multi-Criteria and Voronoi
Authors: Wu Changkun , Liang Ke , Sang Hailang , Ye Yu , Pan Mingzhang
Published: August 2021

In this paper, a Pareto front (PF)-based sampling algorithm, PF-Voronoi sampling method, is proposed to solve the problem of computationally intensive multi-objectives of medium size. The Voronoi diagram is introduced to classify the region containing PF prediction points into Pareto front cells (PFCs). Valid PFCs are screened according to the maximum crowding criterion (MCC), maximum LOO error criterion (MLEC), and maximum mean MSE criterion (MMMSEC). Sampling points are selected among the valid PFCs based on the Euclidean distance. The PF-Voronoi sampling method is applied to the coupled Kringing and NASG-II models and its validity is verified on the ZDT mathematical cases. The results show that the MCC criterion helps to improve the distribution diversity of PF. The MLEC criterion and the MMMSEC criterion reduce the number of training samples by 38.9% and 21.7%, respectively. The computational cost of the algorithm is reduced by more than 44.2%, compared to EHVIMOPSO and SAO-MOEA algorithms. The algorithm can be applied to multidisciplinary, multi-objective, and computationally intensive complex systems.
Pretreatment Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) is associated with prognosis in gastric cancer patients with immunotherapy
Authors: Gou Miaomiao , Zhang Yong
Published: August 2021

Background: previous studies had demonstrated that system inflammation indexes were associated with prognosis ability in various cancers. We aim to explore the prognostic value of platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients with advanced or metastatic gastric cancer (AGC or MGC) receiving immunotherapy. Method: patients with AGC and MGC who received anti-PD-1 treatment at the Chinese PLA General Hospital between January 2016 and August 2020 were reviewed. The study analyzed the association of PLR and overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS) and anti-tumor response rate with immunotherapy.Results: 137 patients were included in the final analysis. The area under the curve values of PLR for 6 months PFS was 0.68(P<0.05). The best cut-off value for PLR was 816.43. Patients in PLR <816.43 group had PFS of 7.9m compared to 4.3m in PLR>= 816.43 group (HR = 0.61`, 95% CI, 0.42-0.89, p < 0.001).OS in PLR <816.43 group was longer than PLR>= 816.43 group (11.1m vs 9.2m, HR = 0.62`, 95% CI, 0.42-0.93, p < 0.001). The objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were 34.1% and 84.6% respectively in PLR <816.43 group while 30.4% and 80.4% in the>= 816.43 group. No significant difference was observed among two group in terms of ORR and DCR (p=0.669, p=0.536). Univariate analysis and multivariate analysis found that PLR was an independent prognosis biomarker for PFS and OS(p<0.05). Conclusions: Pre-treatment PLR was significantly associated with PFS and OS in patients with AGC and MGC who received immunotherapy. Clinicians might consider patients with elevated PLR as one factor for decisions on immunotherapy strategy.
Development and Validation of a Prognostic Nomogram Model for Recurrence of Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Liu Sanhe , Li Yongzhi , Cui Diansheng , Jiao Yuexia , Duan Liqun , Wang Wei , Dong Zhiqiang , Wei Shaozhong
Published: August 2021

BackgroundDifferent recurrence probability of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) requests different adjuvant treatments and follow-up strategies. However, there is no simple, intuitive, and generally accepted clinical recurrence predictive model available for NMIBC. This study aims to construct a predictive model for the recurrence of NMIBC based on demographics and clinicopathologic characteristics from two independent centers. MethodsDemographics and clinicopathologic characteristics of 511 patients with NMIBC were retrospectively collected. Recurrence free survival (RFS) was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank tests. Univariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to screen variables associated with RFS, and a multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model with a stepwise procedure was used to identify those factors of significance. A final nomogram model was built using the multivariable Cox method. The performance of the nomogram model was evaluated with respect to its calibration, discrimination, and clinical usefulness. Internal validation was assessed with bootstrap resampling. X-tile software was used for risk stratification calculated by the nomogram model. ResultsIndependent prognostic factors including tumor stage, recurrence status, and European Association of Urology (EAU) risk stratification group were introduced to the nomogram model. The model showed acceptable calibration and discrimination (area under the receiver operating characteristic [ROC] curve was 0.85; the consistency index [C-index] was 0.79 [95% CI: 0.76 to 0.82]), which was superior to the EAU risk stratification group alone. The decision curve also proved well clinical usefulness. Moreover, all populations could be stratified into three distinct risk groups by the nomogram model. ConclusionsWe established and validated a novel nomogram model that can provide individual prediction of RFS for patients with NMIBC. This intuitively prognostic nomogram model may help clinicians in postoperative treatment and follow-up decision-making.
Higher Level of Sports Activities Participation During the Five-year Survival Was Associated With Better Quality of Life Among Chinese Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Lei Yuanyuan , Ho Suzanne C. , Cheung Ka Li , Yeo Victoria K. M. , Lee Roselle , Kwok Carol , Cheng Ashley , Mo Frankie K. F. , Yeo Winnie
Published: August 2021

BackgroundTo investigate the association between level of sports activities participation at post-diagnosis and quality of life (QoL) among Chinese women with early-stage breast cancer patients during the first five years of survival.MethodsA validated modified Chinese Baecke questionnaire was used to prospectively measure sports activities among a breast cancer cohort at four time-points: baseline (sports activities during the previous 12 months before cancer diagnosis), 18-, 36- and 60-month after diagnosis (sports activities during the previous 12 months before each interview); QoL was measured at the same time. ResultsIn total, 1289, 1125 and 1116 patients were included into the analyses at 18-, 36- and 60-month follow-up, respectively. The percentages of patients who belonged to no [0 metabolic equivalent of task (MET)-hours per week], low-level (<10 MET-hours/week) and high-level (≥10 MET-hours/week) sports activities group were 20.7%, 45.5% and 33.8% at 18-month follow-up, respectively; the corresponding figures at 36- (29.4%, 38.9% and 31.6%, respectively) and 60-month (32.8%, 36.7% and 30.5%, respectively) differed slightly. Using data from the three follow-ups, Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) analyses showed that higher level of sports activities participation was associated with better QoL in several items, including global health status/QoL, physical functioning, role functioning and emotional functioning (P for trend < 0.05 for all), as well as less symptoms in fatigue, pain, loss of appetite and constipation (P for trend < 0.05 for all). ConclusionsThe present findings in Chinese women with breast cancer provided another important evidence on the beneficial effect of regularly participation in sports activities following cancer diagnosis and patients’ QoL. Health promotion programs should be encouraged with the inclusion of regular sports activities after breast cancer diagnosis.
Artificial Perches for Birds in Deforested Areas Favour a Seed Rain Similar to Woodland Remnants
Authors: Guidetti Brenda Yamile , Dardanelli Sebastian , Miño Fátima María Lourdes , Amico Guillermo César
Published: August 2021

The lack of seeds represents one of the highest difficulties to overcome for the ecological restoration of areas that have been deforested. This study evaluates the effectiveness of artificial perches in increasing the abundance and species richness of bird-dispersed seeds and the similitude of seed rain composition (origin and habit of plant seeds), of deforested areas with and without artificial perches in relation to woodland remnants that serve as seeds source. The experiment took place in two sites of the Espinal ecoregion, Argentina. We found that in deforested areas, perches increased seed abundance and species richness in the seed rain in comparison with deforested areas without artificial perches. The species composition under artificial perches was similar to the seed rain dispersed in the woodland. However, a decrease in the richness of native species was significant in the deforested area, probably due to behavioral differences between opportunistic and obligate frugivorous. Seed of trees and shrubs species were well represented in the seed rain under artificial perches. Results from this study contribute to the understanding of nucleation and recovery mechanisms used by nature that reflect ecosystem resilience. We recommend using artificial perches in deforested areas with potential for recovery because it is an efficient technique to promote the entry of birds and increase seed rain, preserving features of the original environment. However, using artificial perches should be avoided in sites with potentially invasive non-native species.
Health-Related Quality of Life with Cervical Cancer and Precancer: A Cross-Sectional Study in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Zhao Min , Zhang Mengjiao , He Lianju , Zuo Chunmei , Ding Songrui , Golden Allison Rabkin , Cai Le
Published: August 2021

Objectives Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, with an estimated 600,000 new cases and 340,000 deaths worldwide in 2020. However, there remains limited understanding of the association between individual socioeconomic status (SES) and clinical characteristics and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of women with cervical precancerous lesions and cancer worldwide, including in China. This study investigates socioeconomic and clinical variations in HRQoL of women with cervical precancerous lesions and cancer in Yunnan Province, China.MethodsThe present study employed a cross-sectional survey design. An EQ-5D-5L questionnaire was used to assess HRQoL of 400 patients with cervical precancerous lesions and cancer in Yunnan Province, China from 2019 to 2020. ANOVA and independent samples t-tests were performed to identify the independent variables associated with the EQ-5D-5L utility scores and VAS scores. Predictors of the utility scores were confirmed using a Tobit regression model.ResultsThe mean of cervical precancerous lesions and cancer patients’ EQ-5D-5L utility scores was 0.939 (SD, 0.104) and the mean of VAS scores was 80.84(SD, 16.551). Patients aged 40-59 years (β=-0.037, p=0.005), patients who were not aware of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (β=-0.032, p=0.004), and patients who underwent radical hysterectomy (β=-0.036, p=0.006) had significantly lower utility scores, whereas having high monthly household income (β=0.023, p=0.033) was significantly associated with higher EQ-5D-5L utility scores. Age (p=0.023) was statistically significant in differences in patients’ VAS scores. Anxiety/depression was the most frequently reported issue (35.75%) among participants. ConclusionsFuture cervical cancer prevention and treatment guidelines should focus on low-income women, women aged 40-59 years, and those lacking knowledge about cervical cancer prevention.
Comparison of Two Methods of Removing Totally Implantable Vascular Access Devices- A Single-Center Experience
Authors: zhang yanshou , Han Lei , Liu Yunjiang
Published: August 2021

In recent years, totally implantable vascular access devices (TIVADs) are widely used for infusion of high-concentration chemotherapeutic drugs and total parenteral nutrition solution, mainly in cancer patients. While there is no definite optimal time and detailed surgical procedures for the removal of TIVADs. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects and complications of different removal approaches of totally implantable vascular access devices (TIVADs). A retrospective analysis was performed on 205 breast cancer patients who underwent TIVAD removal between June 2019 and November 2019. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. There were 102 cases in group A, in which the port was removed before the catheter. There were 103 cases in group B, in which the catheter was removed before the port. The systematic analysis focused on operation time and postoperative complications (pain, local skin infection, and hematoma). There were no significant differences in postoperative pain, wound infection, and hematoma between the two groups (P>0.05). The operation time was significantly shortened in group A (P<0.01).There were no significant differences in postoperative complications between the two groups. The operation time could be significantly reduced by adopting the strategy of removing the port before the catheter.
Comparison of Glutathione Reductase Gene Expression in Drought-sensitive and Tolerant Soybean Lines using Real-time PCR
Authors: Hassanvand Mohammad , Khaghani Shahab , Changizi Mahdi , Gomarian Masoud , Sedaghatfar Ezatollah
Published: August 2021

Background: Global climate change and associated adverse abiotic stress conditions, such as drought, salinity, heavy metals, waterlogging, extreme temperatures, oxygen deprivation, etc., greatly influence plant growth and development, ultimately affecting crop yield and quality, as well as agricultural sustainability in general. This study provides new insights into the analysis of the function of soybean genes in abiotic stress. Drought is one of the significant constraints that limit agricultural productivity. Some factors, including climate changes and acreage expansion, indicate the need for developing drought-tolerant Genotypes.Materials and methods: The study of the expression Glutathione Reductase (GR) gene in soybean drought-tolerant and sensitive cultivars using real-time PCR. Seeds from (drought-sensitive) and (drought-tolerant) lines were planted under specific temperature conditions drought stress treatment, in the research greenhouse of Islamic Azad University of Arak, Iran. Changes in gene expression compared to reference genes were recorded using the formula 2-ΔΔCT. Three technical replications were given for each cDNA sample related to each sampling and used to analyze test data from MINITAB16 software.Results: The results showed that the threshold expression of gene expression (Glutathione) in the Pyramid line had the highest expression of drought resistance and the lowest expression of the Glutathione Reductase gene belonging to the Will line. The theory is also true that chaperone proteins produced during the plant growth cycle are not destroyed to express the Glutathione Reductase gene. The expression cycle of the Glutathione Reductase gene shows that the proteins produced by this gene have a high rate of expression and increase in cell drought stress. This gene expression continues until the pressure ends. The results showed that lines and cultivars with a weak expression against drought stress could have a high expression at the beginning of drought stress but a decrease in gene expression rate during stress. Drought stress-sensitive lines have a decreasing expression in the middle and end of stress during the stress period.
Identification of a Major and Stable QTL on Chromosome 5A Confers Spike Length in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Ji Guangsi , Xu Zhibin , Fan Xiaoli , Zhou Qiang , Yu Qin , Liu Xiaofeng , Liao Simin , Feng Bo , Wang Tao
Published: August 2021

Spike length (SL) is the key determinant of plant architecture and yield potential. In this study, 193 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between 13F10 and Chuanmai 42 (CM42) were evaluated for spike length in six environments. Sixty RILs consisting of 30 high and 30 low SLs were genotyped using the bulked segregant analysis exome sequencing (BSE-Seq) analysis for preliminary quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping. A 6.69 Mb (518.43-525.12 Mb) region on chromosome 5AL was found to have a significant effect on the SL trait. Fifteen kompetitive allele specific PCR (KASP) markers were successfully converted from the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the SL target region. Combined with four novel simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, a genetic linkage map spanning 21.159 cM was constructed. The mapping result confirmed the identity of a major and stable QTL named QSl.cib-5A in the targeted region that explained 7.88–26.60% of the phenotypic variation in SL. QSl.cib-5A was narrowed to a region of 4.84 cM interval corresponding to a 4.67 Mb (516.60-521.27 Mb) physical region in the Chinese Spring RefSeq v2.0 containing 17 high-confidence genes with 25 transcripts. In addition, this QTL exhibited pleiotropic effects on spikelet density (SD), with the phenotypic variances proportion ranging from 11.34–19.92%. This study provides a foundational step for cloning the QSl.cib-5A, which is involved in the regulation of spike morphology in common wheat.
Association of Obesity and Luminal Subtypes in Prognosis and Adjuvant Endocrine Treatment Effectiveness Prediction in Chinese Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhu Siyi , Tong Yiwei , Chen Weiguo , Chen Xiaosong , Shen Kunwei
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Our purpose was to evaluate the influence of obesity on clinicopathological characteristics of breast cancer. Secondly we wanted to explore the effect of obesity on the performance of endocrine therapy in Chinese breast cancer patients.
Methods

Patients with luminal/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative early breast cancer were included and categorized into the non-obese (BMI < 28 kg/m²) and obese (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m²) groups according to body mass index (BMI). Clinicopathological characteristics and treatment modalities were compared among two groups. Furthermore, the interaction of adjuvant endocrine therapy and efficacy between non-obese and obese groups were analyzed.
Results

A total of 2875 patients were included: 2598 in the non-obese group and 277 in the obese group. A higher rate of patients with comorbidities (OR: 2.83, 95%CI 2.13–3.74, P < 0.001) or PR positive tumor (OR: 1.63, 95%CI 1.03–2.58, P = 0.037) were identified in the obese group. Obesity was not associated with disease recurrence (P = 0.839) or overall survival (P = 0.140) in the whole population. Subgroup analysis did show an association with worse relapse-free survival (RFS, HR 3.48, 95%CI 1.31–9.22, P = 0.012) and overall survival (OS, HR 4.67, 95%CI 1.28–16.95, P = 0.019) in luminal A breast cancer. These results could not be reproduced in the luminal B subtype with a RFS (HR 0.78, 95%CI 0.41–1.49, P = 0.454) or OS (HR 1.17, 95%CI 0.50–2.74, P = 0.727). Furthermore, obesity didn’t impact endocrine therapy effectiveness, neither in Tamoxifen nor aromatase inhibitor group (RFS: interact P = 0.381; OS: interact P = 0.888).
Conclusion

The impact of obesity on prognosis interacted with luminal subtype status in Chinese breast cancer patients, which was not related with endocrine treatment modality.
Incidence and Risk Factors of Hospital-Acquired Pressure Ulcers Following Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database Study
Authors: Yang Qinfeng , Wang Jian , Shi Danping , Fu Jinlang , Shi Zhanjun , Zhang Yang
Published: August 2021

BackgroundThe occurrence of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs) is disturbing and costly, leading to a variety of adverse effects. The objective of this study was to examine the incidence and risk factors of HAPUs following total hip arthroplasty (THA) using a large-scale national database. MethodsA retrospective database analysis was performed based on Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2005-2014. Patients who underwent THA were included. Patient demographics, hospital characteristics, length of stay (LOS), total charges during hospitalization, in-hospital mortality, preoperative comorbidities, and perioperative complications were assessed.ResultsA total of 592,174 THAs were captured from the NIS database. The general incidence of HAPUs after THA was 0.05%, with a fluctuating trend annually. Patients suffered from HAPUs were older, less likely through elective admission, more likely in large hospital, more usage of Medicare, and less possibly paying via Private insurance compared to the nonaffected individuals. Additionally, the occurrence of HAPUs was associated with more preoperative comorbidities, longer LOS, extra total charges, and higher in-hospital mortality. Risk factors of HAPUs included advanced age (≥75 years), large hospital, multiple comorbidities (n≥3), diabetes with chronic complications, drug abuse, liver disease, fluid and electrolyte disorders, metastatic cancer, peripheral vascular disorders, psychoses, chronic renal failure, peptic ulcer disease, and weight loss. Besides, HAPUs were associated with inflammatory arthritis and femoral neck fracture (compared with primary/secondary osteoarthritis), frailty/senility, osteoporosis, acute renal failure, pneumonia, postoperative delirium, urinary tract infection, deep vein thrombosis, sepsis/septicemia, wound dehiscence/non-healing surgical wound, periprosthetic joint infection, and mechanical prosthesis-related complications. Both elective admission and Private insurance were detected as protective factors. ConclusionsIt is beneficial to study the risk factors of HAPUs after THA to ensure the preventive management and optimize consequences although a really low incidence was identified.
MiR-27a as a diagnostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Bayati Paria , Kalantari Mahsa , Assarehzadegan Mohammad-Ali , Poormoghim Hadi , Mojtabavi Nazanin
Published: August 2021

Background

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) or scleroderma is a multiorgan rheumatoid disease characterized by skin tightening or organ dysfunction due to fibrosis, vascular damage, and autoimmunity. No specific cause has been discovered for this illness, and hence no effective treatment exists for it. On the other hand, due to the lack of diagnostic biomarkers capable of effectively and specifically differentiating the patients, early diagnosis has not been possible. Due to their potent regulatory roles in molecular pathways, microRNAs are among the novel candidates for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases like SSc. MiR-27a is a microRNA known for its role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis and cancer, both of which employ similar signaling pathways; hence we hypothesized that Mir-27a could be dysregulated in the blood of individuals affected by SSc and it might be useful in the diagnosis or treatment of this disease.
Methods

Blood was collected from 60 SSc patients (30 limited and 30 diffused) diagnosed by rheumatologist according to ACR/AULAR criteria; following RNA isolation and cDNA synthesis; real-time qPCR was performed on the samples using Taq-Man probes and data were analyzed by the ΔΔCT method. Also, potential targets of miR-27a were evaluated using bioinformatics.
Results

It was revealed that miR-27a was significantly down-regulated in SSc patients in comparison to the healthy individuals, but there was no difference in miR-27 expression between limited and diffused SSc patients. Besides, miR-27a was found to target several contributing factors to SSc.
Conclusion

It seems that miR-27a has a protective role in SSc, and its downregulation could result in the disease's onset. Based on bioinformatics analyses, it is speculated that miR-27a likely targets factors contributing to the pathogenesis of SSc, which are elevated upon the downregulation of miR-27a; hence, miR-27a mimics could be considered as potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of SSc in future studies. Since no difference was observed between limited and diffused patient groups, it is unlikely that this microRNA has a role in disease progression. According to ROC analysis of qPCR data, miR-27a could be employed as a valuable diagnostic biomarker for SSc.
Risk Factors of Rapid Lung Function Decline in COPD Patients of Real World
Authors: Lee Hyun Woo , Lee Jung-Kyu , Lee Myung Goo , Shin Kyung-Chul , Ra Seung Won , Kim Tae-Hyung , Hwang Yong il , Jung Ki-Suck , Yoo Kwang Ha , Kim Deog Kyeom
Published: August 2021

Background: Rapid lung function decliners have been considered a unique subgroup of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A rapid decline manifests early and is related with a poor prognosis. Therefore, pre-emptive identification of risk factors for rapid decliner is necessary. We aimed to determine those risk factors in Korean patients.Methods: A longitudinal, observational study was conducted on the KOCOSS cohort (NCT02800499), consisting of patients assessed from January 2012 to December 2019 at 54 medical centers in South Korea. Eligible patients were adults followed up for 3 years with serial spirometric tests. We calculated the annualized percentage change in lung function from baseline. Rapid decliners were defined as the quartile of patients with the highest annualized percentage decline in lung function. Results: Among the 518 included patients, 130 were rapid decliners. Rapid decliners lost 6.2%/year and 100 ml/year of forced expiratory volume in 1 second from baseline. Rapid decliners had a higher rate of severe exacerbations than non-rapid decliners (0.2/year vs. 0.1/year, P=0.032). Upon multivariable logistic regression, male sex, being a current smoker, a blood eosinophil count <150/µl, and a high forced vital capacity were independent risk factors for a rapid decline. In rapid decliners, lung function deteriorated more rapidly in current smokers and patients with more severe dyspnea, while triple combination therapy attenuated lung function decline compared to mono-bronchodilator therapy.Conclusions: Identification of risk and aggravating factors for rapid lung function decline may assist physicians in providing earlier intervention for high-risk patients with COPD.
Sebaceous Carcinoma of The Lip: Report of a Case and Literature Review.
Authors: Ambrosino Mariateresa , somma pasquale , santarelli andrea , staiabano stefania , cosola michele di , Muzio Lorenzo Lo
Published: August 2021

Background

Sebaceous carcinoma (SC) is a very rare, aggressive, malignant tumor arising in the adnexal epithelium of the sebaceous gland. SC in the oral cavity is extremely rare, in literature there are only 14 cases. We reported the 4th case of sebaceous carcinoma involving the lip
Case presentation

A 71-year-old male smoker presented an ulcerated lesion in the lateral region of the lower lip. The patient stated that the lesion had been present for 1 year. The past medical history was unremarkable. Extra-oral examination revealed a markedly ulcerated, exophytic, irregularly shaped, indurated mass of the lower right labial region, measuring 1.8 cm in size. The nodular lesion, located at the point of transition between mucosa and skin, showed a central ulceration. No other intraoral lesions were identified. The clinical differential diagnosis included squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma with sebaceous differentiation and salivary gland neoplasms. The operation was performed under local anaesthesia. On histopathological examination, the tumor was composed by nodules or sheet of cells separated by a fibrovascolar stroma. The neoplastic tissue was deeply infiltrating, involving the submucosa and even the underlying muscle. Neoplastic cells showed a range of sebaceous differentiation with finely vacuolated rather than clear cytoplasm. Neoplastic cells were positive for S-100 protein, EMA, but negative for CEA. Therefore, based on these findings, a diagnosis of sebaceous carcinoma of the lower lip was rendered.
Conclusion

The histogenesis, differential diagnosis, and clinicopathologic conditions of this disease in the literature were reviewed. SC should be distinguished from other tumors full of vacuolated clear cells. Some useful biomarkers can be Ki-67, P53, CK, PAS, S-100, EMA, and AR.
Spot Specimen Testing With GeneXpert® MTB/RIF Results In More Complete TB Diagnostic Results Than Morning Specimens
Authors: Massou Faridath , Fandohan Merlin , Wachinou Ablo Prudence , Agbla Schadrac Christin , Agodokpessi Gildas , Rigouts Leen , de Jong Bouke Catherine , Affolabi Dissou
Published: August 2021

Background: The diagnosis of Tuberculosis (TB) using smear microscopy has been based on testing 2 specimens: one spot and one early morning sputum. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended to replace, whenever possible, microscopy with GeneXpert® MTB/RIF performed on a single specimen. However, as the bacterial load is higher in early morning specimens than in spot specimens, one could expect lower sensitivity of GeneXpert® MTB/RIF performed only on spot specimens. In this study, we compared results of GeneXpert® MTB/RIF on spot specimens versus early morning specimens, under programmatic conditions in Cotonou, Benin. Methods: From June to September 2018, all sputa received from presumptive TB patients at the Supranational Reference Laboratory for Tuberculosis of Cotonou were included in the study. From each patient, two specimens were collected (one spot and one early morning) and GeneXpert® MTB/RIF was performed on both specimens. Results: In total, 886 participants were included in the study, of whom 737 provided both sputa and 149 (16.8%) gave only the spot specimen. For the 737 participants who provided both sputa, GeneXpert® MTB/RIF was positive for both specimens in 152 participants; for three participants GeneXpert® MTB/RIF was positive on spot specimen but negative on morning specimen while for another three, the test was positive on morning specimen but negative on spot specimen. The overall percentage of agreement was excellent (99.2%) with a very positive and negative percent agreement greater than 98%.Conclusions: For TB diagnosis under programmatic conditions in Cotonou, GeneXpert® MTB/RIF in spot specimens gave similar results with the test in morning specimens. Performing GeneXpert® MTB/RIF in both specimens did not significantly increase the number of cases detected. To avoid losing patients from the diagnostic cascade, it is preferable to test sputa produced at the time of visit.
In-Vivo Toxicity of Bioreactor-Grown Biomass And Exopolysaccharides From Malaysian Tiger Milk Mushroom Mycelium For Potential Future Health Applications
Authors: Usuldin Siti Rokhiyah Ahmad , Wan-Mohtar Imad , Ilham Zul , Jamaludin Adi Ainurzaman , Abdullah Nur Raihan , Rowan Neil
Published: August 2021

Natural mycelial biomass (MB) and exopolysaccharide (EPS) produced from bioreactor-grown Malaysian Tiger Milk Mushroom Lignosus rhinocerus are considered high-end components due to their high commercial potential value in drug discovery. Both MB (0.16-10 mg/mL) and EPS (0.16-10 mg/mL) extracts were tested for Zebrafish Embryo Toxicity (ZFET) and early development effects on Zebrafish Embryos (ZE) during 24-120 h post-fertilization (HPF) in order to assess toxicity given potential application as a new therapy for treating asthma. Finding revealed that MB was deemed to be safe with an LC50 of 0.77 mg/mL; EPS was shown to be non-toxic (LC50 of 0.41 mg/mL). Neither MB nor EPS delayed hatching nor teratogenic defects in treated ZE at a dose of 2.5 mg/mL. There were no significant changes in the ZE heart rate after MB or EPS treatments with MB (0.16-10 mg/mL: 130 beats/min) and EPS (0.16-10 mg/mL: 140 beats/min), as compared to normal ZE (120-180 beats/min). In addition, mixing of both natural compounds MB and EPS did not affect toxicity using ZFET testing; thus, intimating their safe future use as therapeutic interventions.
Investigation of the geotechnical properties and estimation of the relative density from the standard penetration test in sandy soils (Case study: north east of Iran)
Authors: Amini Omid , Khoshghalb Arman , Etemadifar Mahin
Published: August 2021

In the present research, SPT results are adopted to establish relationships for estimation of the relative density in a sandy soil. SPTs are performed in 20 boreholes in Astaneh-ye Ashrafiyeh city in Iran. Laboratory tests including mineralogy, relative density, soil gradation, Atterberg limits, and unit weight were performed on the soil samples. The SPT numbers were then properly corrected. In particular, the correct procedure for correction of the SPT number against the existing overburden effective stress is discussed when the SPT is performed in the vadose zone where the soil may be unsaturated. The soil in the study area is dominantly classified as SP-SM. The relationship between the relative density as one of the most important parameters for dominantly granular soils, with the corrected SPT number (N 1(60) ) and fines content is then investigated and discussed using artificial neural network and statistical analysis. Results showed that for the soil of interest, the developed relationship performs better than those established in the literature, hence demonstrating the value of developing locally tuned relationships for important projects.
On-Line Monitoring of the Axial Thermal Displacement of Machine Tools by Using a Laser Mouse Sensor
Authors: Cheng Wen-Nan , Cheng Chih-Chun , Tsai Chih-Ming , Kuo Yu-Hsin , Cheng Wei-Ren
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a low-cost on-line system for monitoring the axial thermal displacement of machine tools. The proposed monitoring system includes an embedded optical sensor derived from a laser mouse; an image acquisition microcontroller; speckle patterns; and an edge computer that hosts software including an image display module, a displacement calculation module, an image enhancement module, and a data visualization module. The proposed sensing system can measure the displacement in two orthogonal directions simultaneously by employing digital image correlation; thus, the proposed system is a two-dimensional displacement sensor. The sensing system benefits from image enhancement techniques and customized optimal speckle patterns printed using a standard low-cost monochrome laser printer. Experimental results indicate that the proposed displacement sensing system has an accuracy and a precision of less than 5 mm in both orthogonal directions; however, the measurement range is only 1 mm for a static measurement. The two-dimensional displacement sensing system was used for the on-line monitoring of the thermal deformation of a feed drive system for machine tools, and the performance of the sensing system was assessed experimentally.
Investigating equity in access to Australian clinical genetic health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Authors: Luke Joanne , Dalach Philippa , Tuer Lindsay , Savarirayan Ravi , Ferdinand Angeline , McGaughran Julie , Kowal Emma , Massey Libby , Garvey Gail , Dawkins Hugh , Jenkins Misty , Paradies Yin , Pearson Glenn , Stutterd Chloe , Baynam Gareth , Kelaher Margaret
Published: August 2021

Globally, there is a recognised need for a greater commitment to an equity agenda in clinical genomics and precision medicine. Fundamental to this, is the equitable access by all to services providing genomic health care. However, achieving this remains constrained by a paucity of evidence that quantifies (in)equity of access to clinical genomics, particularly amongst Indigenous populations. Using administrative data from clinical genetic health services located in three jurisdictions (States/Territories) in Australia, we investigate equity in the scheduling and attendance of appointments among Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, compared to non-Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. For 15554 appointments scheduled between 2014-2018, adjusted Multivariate Poisson Regression models revealed that Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people were scheduled fewer appointments (IRR 0.73 [0.68-0.80], <0.001) and attended at lower rates (IRR 0.85 [0.78-0.93], <0.001). Within this population, adults, females, people living in remote locations, and those presenting in relation to cancer or prenatal indications experienced the greatest disparity in access. As the first quantitative, multi-jurisdictional study to measure access to clinical genetic health services, these results provide important baseline data related to the reach and equity of these services in Australia and contribute to the global effort to address equity in genomic health.
Crustal Deformation Detection Capability Associated With a Fault Slip on the Interplate Boundary in the Gnss-a Seafloor Geodetic Observation Array (SGO-A), Provided By Japan Coast Guard
Authors: Yokota Yusuke , Ishikawa Tadashi , Watanabe Sun-ichi , Nakamura Yuto
Published: August 2021

The GNSS-A technique is an observation method that can detect seafloor crustal deformations with centimeter level accuracy. The GNSS-A seafloor geodetic observation array operated by the Japan Coast Guard, called SGO-A, has been constructed near the Japan Islands along the Nankai Trough and the Japan Trench. This observation array has detected several earthquakes’ displacements and episodic slow crustal deformation. To compare the detection results of SGO-A with other observation networks and expand the SGO-A distribution, it is necessary to correctly understand its detection capability. In this paper, the capabilities of current GNSS-A (frequency: f = 4–6 times/year, position accuracy: σ (standard deviation) = 1.5 cm) to detect a crustal deformation rate only, an event only, and crustal deformation rate and event together were arranged by numerical simulations. Results suggested the following features: when it is known that there is no event, the 95% confidence level (CL) for the estimation of crustal deformation rate with 4-year observation is about 0.5–0.8 cm/year; when the deformation rate is known, a signal of about 3.0 cm can be detected by observations of about 4 times before and after the event. When the deformation rate and the event are detected together, to keep the false positive low (about 0.05), the false negative becomes high (about 0.2–0.7 for detecting a signal of 4.5–6.0 cm). The determined rate and event variations are approximately 1.8 cm/year (95%CL) and 1.5 cm (standard deviation), respectively. We also examined the detection capability for higher frequency and accuracy, to examine how the detection capability improves by technological advancements in the future. Additionally, we calculated the spatial range of event detectability using the determined values of detection sensitivity. Each seafloor site can detect a slip event larger than 0.1 m scale within about 50 km radius. A subseafloor slip event smaller than about 1 m at the distance of 100 km or more from the land can often be detected only on the seafloor observation array.
Establishment of a Novel CD34+ Hematopoietic Stem Cell-Derived Xenograft Model of Hyperleukocytic Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Jin Yanxia , Luo Ziyi , Ma Linlu , Chen Yanling , Zheng Yujia , Liang Yuxing , Tong Xiqin , Yang Qian , Wu Balu , Wu Sanyun , Shen Hui , Liu Li , Liu Yin , Yang Tian , Zhou Fuling
Published: August 2021

Hyperleukocytic acute myeloid leukemia (HLL) with high early mortality is difficult to therapy. The related research on HLL is still in its infancy, and the establishment of a patient derived xenograft (PDX) model of HLL has not been fully reported. In this study, we establish a CD34+ hematopoietic stem cell-derived xenograft model of HLL for further exploration. Our findings demonstrated that the leukemia cells were detected in peripheral blood, bone marrow, liver, and spleen tissues in mice after inoculation of patient-derived cells. By performing a comparative analysis of multiple experiments, we found the irradiation doses, injection cell counts, gene abnormal and the survival status of the enrolled patients affected the survival time in mice. We successfully established a novel CD34+ hematopoietic stem cell-derived xenograft model of HLL, which shows great promise for mechanistic research, drug screening, individualized therapy, clinical efficacy assessment and precision medicine in HLL.
WITHDRAWN: MicroRNA-155-5p Contributes to 5-Fluorouracil Resistance Through Down-Regulating TP53INP1 in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Bowen , Hu Jingchao , Zhao Han , Zhao Li
Published: August 2021

The anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) resistance is a major obstacle to reducing the effectiveness of cancer treatment, and its detailed mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Here, in 5-FU-resistant human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) HSC3 cells (HSC3/5-FU), the levels of 21 miRNA candidates were detected and miR-155-5p level increased strikingly in HSC3/5-FU cells compared to HSC3 cells. Compared with HSC3 cells, the HSC3/5-FU cells transfected with miR-155-5p inhibitors decreased 5-FU IC50. Ectopic expression of miR-155-5p in HSC3 and HSC4 cells increased 5-FU IC50, migration and invasion abilities. Seven miR-155-5p target candidates were discovered by miRNA prediction algorithms, and in HSC3/5-FU cells TP53INP1 showed the lowest mRNA expression level compared with HSC3 cells. Ectopic expression of miR-155-5p in HSC3 and HSC4 cells decreased TP53INP1 expression level, and luciferase reporter assay further determined the interference effect of miR-155-5p on TP53INP1 expression. The enhancement of cell viability, migration and invasion by miR-155-5p after 5-FU treatment was reversed by TP53INP1 overexpression. After treatment with 5-FU, HSC3-miR-155-5p tumor-bearing nude mice presented growing tumors, while HSC3-TP53INP1 group possessed shrinking tumors. In conclusion, these results lead to the proposal that miR-155-5p enhances 5-FU resistance by decreasing TP53INP1 expression in OSCC.
Comparative Genetics Using Three mtDNA Markers in Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) Populations from Four Municipalities in the Satate of Mato Grosso, Brazil.
Authors: Mariotto Sandra , Silva Mari Rose Oliveira , Butakka Cristina Márcia Menezes , Cerqueira Lenicy Lucas Miranda , Miyazaki Rosina Djunko , Rodrigues Fabiana Aparecida Caldart
Published: August 2021

Aedes aegypti mosquito has spread throughout the tropical and subtropical world and is currently the primary species responsible for transmitting dengue, urban yellow fever, Chikungunya, and Zika virus. This study aimed to investigate the inter- and intrapopulational genetic variability of Aedes aegypti through mitochondrial DNA, COI, ND4, and ND5 molecular markers in four municipalities in Mato Grosso. We used the Geneious software to build dendrograms for differentiating populations from each municipality. The interpopulational genetic distance obtained from sequence analysis showed a difference within populations through groups' formation in the ordering. Besides, we identified a difference in the interindividual genetic distance values, notably for the ND5 gene from the populations captured in the four municipalities. We recorded the smallest interindividual genetic distance within populations for populations from Chapada dos Guimarães. Extrinsic factors, including breeding habitat removal, can contribute to decreasing variability. Consequently, the dendrogram showed some similarities. Ovitrap monitoring, vector elimination, and genetic flow investigation stimulate actions to prevent transmitted diseases and support essential effective measures to control and fight Ae. aegypti.
CELF1 Promotes Matrix Metalloproteinases Gene Expression at Transcriptional Level in Lens Epithelial Cells
Authors: Xiao Jun , Tian Xi , Jin Siyan , He Yanhui , Song Meijiao , Zou He
Published: August 2021

Background: RNA binding proteins (RBPs)-mediated regulation plays important roles in many eye diseases, including the canonical RBP CELF1 in cataract. While the definite molecular regulatory mechanisms of CELF1 on cataract still remain elusive. Methods: In this study, we overexpressed CELF1 in lens epithelial SRA01/04 cells and applied whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) method to analyze the global differences mediated by CELF1. We then analyzed public RNA-seq and CELF1-RNA interactome data to decipher the underlying mechanisms.Results: The results showed that transcriptome profile was globally changed by CELF1 overexpression (CELF1-OE). Functional analysis revealed CELF1 specifically increased the expression of genes in extracellular matrix disassembly, extracellular matrix organization, and proteolysis, which could be classified into matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) family. This finding was also validated by RT-qPCR and public mouse early embryonic lens data. Integrating analysis with public CELF1-RNA interactome data revealed that no obvious CELF1-binding peak was found on the transcripts of these genes, indicating an indirectly regulatory role of CELF1 in lens epithelial cells. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that CELF1-OE promotes transcriptional level of MMP genes; and this regulation may be completed by other ways except for binding to RNA targets. These results suggest that CELF1-OE is implicated in the development of lens, which is associated with cataract and expands our understanding of CELF1 regulatory roles as an RNA binding protein.