bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heart Rhythm Complexity as Predictors for the Prognosis of End-Stage Renal Disease Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Liu Hongyun , Zhan Ping , Shi Jinlong , Hu Minlu , Wang Guojing , Wang Weidong
Published: December 2020

Background Heart rhythm complexity, a measure of heart rate dynamics and a risk predictor in various clinical diseases, has not been systematically studied in patients with end-stage renal disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the heart rhythm complexity and its prognostic value for mortality in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis.Methods To assess heart rhythm complexity and conventional heart rate variability measures, 4-hour continuous electrocardiography for a retrospective cohort of 202 ostensibly healthy control subjects and 51 hemodialysis patients with end-stage renal disease were analyzed. Heart rhythm complexity was quantified by the complexity index from the measurement of the multiscale entropy profile.Results During a follow-up of 13 months, 8 people died in the patient group. Values of either traditional heart rate variability measurements or complexity indices were found significantly lower in patients than those in healthy controls. In addition, the complexity indices (Area 1-5, Area 6-15 and Area 6-20) in the mortality group were significantly lower than those in the survival group, while there were no significant differences in traditional heart rate variability parameters between the two groups. In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, Area 6-20 (AUC = 0.895, p<0.001) showed the strongest predictive power between mortality and survival groups. Conclusion The results suggest that heart rhythm complexity is impaired for patients with end-stage renal disease. Furthermore, the complexity index of heart rate variability quantified by multiscale entropy may be a powerful independent predictor of mortality in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Radiomics machine learning study with small sample size: single random training-test set split may result in unreliable results
Authors: An Chansik , Park Yae Won , Ahn Sung Soo , Han Kyunghwa , Kim Hwiyoung , Lee Seung-Koo
Published: December 2020

Objective: This study aims to determine how randomly splitting a dataset into training and test sets affects the estimated performance of a machine learning model under different conditions, using real-world brain tumor radiomics data.Materials and Methods: We conducted two classification tasks of different difficulty levels with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radiomics features: (1) “Simple” task, glioblastomas [n=109] vs. brain metastasis [n=58] and (2) “difficult” task, low- [n=163] vs. high-grade [n=95] meningiomas. Additionally, two undersampled datasets were created by randomly sampling 50% from these datasets. We performed random training-test set splitting for each dataset repeatedly to create 1,000 different training and test set pairs. For each dataset pair, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator model was trained by five-fold cross-validation (CV) or nested CV with or without repetitions in the training set and tested with the test set, using the area under the curve (AUC) as an evaluation metric.Results: The AUCs in CV and testing varied widely based on data composition, especially with the undersampled datasets and the difficult task. The mean (±standard deviation) AUC difference between CV and testing was 0.029 (±0.022) for the simple task without undersampling and 0.108 (±0.079) for the difficult task with undersampling. In a training-test set pair, the AUC was high in CV but much lower in testing (0.840 and 0.650, respectively); in another dataset pair with the same task, however, the AUC was low in CV but much higher in testing (0.702 and 0.836, respectively). None of the CV methods helped overcome this issue.Conclusions: Machine learning after a single random training-test set split may lead to unreliable results in radiomics studies, especially when the sample size is small.
Identification of novel prognosis biomarkers through integrating multi-omics data in gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Nannan , Wu Yun , Cheng Weipeng , Wu Yuxuan , Wang Liguo , Zhuang Liwei
Published: December 2020

Background: Gastric cancer is a fatal gastrointestinal cancer with high morbidity and poor prognosis. The dismal 5-year survival rate urges reliable biomarkers to assess and improve prognosis of gastric cancer. Distinguishing driver mutations that were required for the cancer phenotype from passenger ones poses a formidable challenge for cancer genomics. Methods: We integrated the multi-omics data of 293 primary gastric cancer patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) projects to identify key driver genes by establishing the prognosis model of the patients. The combination of copy number alteration and somatic mutation analysis helped us to comprehensively reveal molecular markers of genomic variation. Integrating the transcription level of genes provides a unique perspective for us to discover dysregulated factors in transcriptional regulation. Results: The results, we identified 31 molecular markers of genomic variation comprehensively. For instance, the copy number alteration of WASHC5 (also known as KIAA0196) frequently recurrence in gastric cancer patients, which cannot be discovered using traditional methods based on significant mutations. Further, we revealed several dysregulatory factors played a "hubs" regulatory role in the process of biological metabolism based on dysregulatory networks. Cancer hallmark and functional enrichment analysis showed that these key driver genes (KD genes) played a vital role in regulating programmed cell death. The drug response pattern and transcriptional signatures of KD genes reflected its clinical application value. Conclusions: These findings indicated that the KD genes could serve as novel prognostic biomarkers for further research on the pathogenesis of gastric cancers, while elucidating a multidimensional and comprehensive genomic landscape and highlighting the molecular complexity.
Exploring the patterns of a multisectoral approach in fighting COVID-19 pandemic in SNNPR, Ethiopia: A qualitative case study approach.
Authors: Ali Abraham , Usman Akmel , Badebo Fekadeselassie , Tilahun Solomon
Published: December 2020

Background Since COVID-19 has been declared as a global pandemic, South Nations, Nationalities People’s Region has been doing its level efforts by establishing high level task force across the region. The disease is a new one with multifaceted challenges requiring consolidated efforts, there is inadequate understanding about the patterns of the efforts and collaborations of various stakeholders in the region. Therefore, this study has explored the patterns of the multisectoral collaboration in the fight against the COVID-19 in the region using a qualitative case study design. Data were collected by key informant interview and document review and analyzed using a content analysis framework focused on case study data analysis.Result The study has indicated a unique perspective in establishing functional multisectoral approach with strong courage and motivation of most involved stakeholder. Almost all stakeholders have shown clear understanding about the multidimensional burdens the disease could cause and the necessities for joint efforts to tackle the multidimensional problems. The study further elucidated that despite the encouraging beginning, the eventual slowdown undertakings in the joint actions. This included failure to meet regularly to monitor and evaluate as stated earlier and societies’ reluctances despite continues information dissemination.Conclusion Based on the study findings it can be concluded that the disease has created significant worries up on the society and stakeholders, thus, called for strong multisectoral actions. The occurrence of this disease has not only come up with numerous challenges but also with significant opportunities that can be strengthening in the future. Hence forth, the study recommends strengthening the established multisectoral approaches and timely correction of the observed drawbacks.
Pre-screening for Osteoporosis with Calcaneus Quantitative Ultrasound and Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry Bone Density
Authors: Yen Chia-Chi , Lin Wei-Chun , Wang Tzu-Hao , Chen Guan-Fan , Chou Da-Ying , Lin Dian-Min , Lin Shu-Yuan , Chan Min-Ho , Wu Jia-Ming , Tseng Chin-Dar , Huang Yu-Jie , Lee Tsair-Fwu
Published: December 2020

Calcaneal quantitative ultrasonography (QUS) is a useful prescreening tool for osteoporosis, but the advantages of QUS and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) remain unclear. We evaluated the correlation between QUS and DXA in a Taiwanese population. A total of 772 patients were enrolled and demographic data were recorded with the QUS and DXA T-score over the hip and spine. The correlation coefficient of QUS with the DXA-hip was 0.171. For DXA-spine, it was 0.135 overall, 0.237 in females, and 0.255 in males. The logistic regression model using DXA-spine as a dependent variable was established, and the classification table showed 66.2% accuracy. ROC analyses with Youden’s Index revealed the optimal cut-off point of QUS for predicting osteoporosis to be 2.72. This study showed a meaningful correlation between QUS and DXA in a Taiwanese population. Thus, it is important to pre-screen for osteoporosis with calcaneus QUS.
Rapid Microwave Synthesis of β-SnWO4 Nanoparticles: An Efficient Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: N Sumedha , Alsaiari Mabkhoot , Jalalah Mohammed , M Shashank , Alharthi Fahad , Ahmad Naushad , Algethami Jari , R Vishwantha , Ganganagappa Nagaraju
Published: December 2020

Here, we report a facile synthesis of β-SnWO4 nanoparticles via microwave heat treatment using SnCl2 and H2WO4, in the presence of tamarind seed powder. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the crystalline nature, revealing a cubic structure of β-SnWO4 nanoparticles. Morphological features were visualized using a scanning electron microscope which exhibited homogenously distributed clusters of nanoparticles which were further confirmed using transmission electron microscope. The micrographs also displayed some porosity. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the elemental contents such as tin, oxygen and tungsten in the same stoichiometric ratio as expected by the respective empirical formula. High-resolution transmission electron microscope was used to find the d-spacing which was ultimately used to analyze the structural parameters. The spectrum obtained using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy illuminates different stretching vibrations. Additionally, Barrett-Joyner-Halenda analysis was carried out to investigate N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm as well as to govern the pore size distribution. Cyclic voltammetry measurements were implemented to analyze the ongoing electrode reactions throughout the charge/discharge for β-SnWO4 nanostructures. The galvanometric charge/discharge curves for β-SnWO4 have also been discussed. A high specific capacitance (600 mAhg-1 at 0.1 C) and excellent columbic efficiency (~100%) was achieved.
Correlates of Sun Protection Behaviors Among Melanoma Survivors
Authors: Heckman Carolyn , Manne Sharon , Kashy Deborah , Ritterband Lee , Bhurosy Trishnee , Coups Elliot
Published: December 2020

Background: The study objective was to assess potential correlates of sun protection behaviors among melanoma survivors.Methods: Participants were 441 melanoma survivors recruited from three health centers and a state cancer registry in the United States. Sun protection behaviors (sunscreen, shade, protective shirts, and hats) were assessed through an online survey, as were potential correlates (demographic, melanoma risk, knowledge and attitudinal, psychological, and social influence factors). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted. Results: Correlates of sun protection behaviors included education, skin cancer risk factors, melanoma knowledge and attitudes, melanoma worry and distress, physician recommendation for sun protection, injunctive norms, and pro-protection attitudes (e.g., perceived barriers, self-efficacy). Conclusions: Future efforts to improve sun safety among melanoma survivors may benefit from targeting individuals with lower education levels, and addressing sun protection social influence, barriers, and self-efficacy.
Patient Satisfaction and Associated Factors Among Adult Outpatient Ophthalmic Service Users’ at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Tertiary Eye Care and Training Center, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Lorato Merkineh , Hussen Mohammed , Tegegne Mebratu
Published: December 2020

Background: Patient satisfaction is explained as “the extent to which patients are happy with their health care, both inside and outside of the doctor’s office”. Observed complain and limited evidence on patient satisfaction specific to ophthalmic services. So, aimed to assess the overall patient satisfaction and associated factors among adult outpatient ophthalmic service users at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Tertiary Eye Care and Training Center, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020.Methods and materials: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 26 to August 5 with a sample size of 414. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select participants. An interviewer administered questionnaire was employed to collect the data. The data was analyzed by SPSS 20. Descriptive statistics such as frequency cross tabulation test was carried out to translate data into information. P-value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Result: A total of 403 participants with 97.34% response rate were included in this study. Their mean age was 46.67±16.21 years. The majorities were males (59.8%). The overall patient satisfaction was 57.1% at 95% CI :( 52.1%-61.5%). The top three sub-domains with greater score of satisfaction were general outlook (67.5%), communication with providers (64.5%), and interpersonal manner (61.5%). The least satisfaction score was to waiting time (45.9%) sub domain. Being unmarried (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI 1.21-5.23) and earning a monthly income of Ethiopian Birr ≥2500 (AOR = 5.90; 95% CI: 2.11-16.5) were associated with the patient satisfaction.Conclusion: The result infers that nearly sixty percent of the study participants were satisfied. While improving each sub-domain of patient satisfaction, waiting time and financial aspect sub-domains need greater emphasis by the hospital manager to improve patient satisfaction. The hospital manager, policymakers and other stakeholders need to set a quality improvement plan to solve the issue.
The Control Algorithm of Whole Angle Mode for HRG Based on the Vector Composition
Authors: Zhao Wanliang , Cheng Yuxiang , Li Shaoliang , Song Lijun
Published: December 2020

The Hemispherical Resonator Gyroscope (HRG) has many advantages such as high precision, high reliability and long life-time, it is widely used in the space-launcher and the satellites. The HRG has been mechanized to operate in two the distinct operating modes, the Force to Rebalanced (FTR) mode and the Whole Angle (WA) mode. Different from the traditional control algorithm is based on average methods which usually used for WA mode, in the paper, a new electrostatic control algorithm is presented, which based on the vector composition and decomposition method to control the equivalent drive force in order to track the phase of the standing wave. The mathematics model and the control algorithm are presented in the paper. And the hardware experimental circuit system is implemented, the HRG has a range of more than 300°/s with the linearity of 40 ppm. Meanwhile, the energy transition efficiency increases by an order of magnitude, rather than the average methods.
“We are not Hard to Reach, but we may find it Hard to Trust”…. Involving and Engaging ‘Seldom Listened to’ Community Voices in Clinical Translational Health Research: A Social Innovation Approach.
Authors: Islam Safina , Joseph Olivia , Chaudry Atiha , Forde Davine , Keane Annie , Wilson Cassia , Begum Nasima , Parsons Suzanne , Grey Tracy , Holmes Leah , Starling Bella
Published: December 2020

Background: Public involvement in clinical translational research is increasingly recognized as essential for relevant and robust research. Public involvement must be diverse and inclusive to enable research that has the potential to reach those that stand to benefit from it the most, and thus address issues of health equity. Several recent reports, however, indicate that public involvement is exclusive, including in its interactions with ethnic groups. This paper outlines a novel community-led methodology – a community sandpit – to address the inclusion of ethnic groups in public involvement in research, reports on its evaluation, findings, legacy and impact.Methods: Through careful planning, relationship-building, co-design and co-delivery between the Public Programmes team based at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and the Greater Manchester Black and Minority Ethnic Network, the community sandpit was held in July 2018. Results: 15 community organisations took part in the participatory 2-day event, as well as 6 researchers, and 6 creative practitioners. 6 community-based partnership projects were seed-funded; 4 of these carried on to receive additional funding.Conclusions: Evaluation of the sandpit showed the format to be well-received by all: it levelled power relationships between community organisations, health researchers and research infrastructure; it developed capacity amongst researchers about the accessibility, role and potential of community organisations. Described as “not another community seed fund” by community partners, the sandpit offered equitable avenues for collaboration within Greater Manchester translational research and led to the formation of the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Research Advisory Group. The method has the potential to be replicated elsewhere to support inclusive public involvement in research and inclusive research.
A Case of Primary Hepatic Extranodal Marginal Zone B-Cell Lymphoma of Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT) Type Treated by Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Literature Review
Authors: Xu Zhe , Pang Chong , Sui Jidong , Gao Zhenming
Published: December 2020

BackgroundPrimary hepatic mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is an extremely rare liver malignancy and is usually lack characteristic imaging findings, which is often misdiagnosed. Case presentationThe present study reports a case of a 63-year-old woman diagnosed with primary hepatic extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma of MALT type. The patient received the needle biopsy and radiofrequency ablation and has not shown relapse up for the following 12 months.ConclusionsThis case is reported for its rarity and the treatment for this patient is unique and effective. Our case provides a new option for the treatment of hepatic MALT lymphoma. We also present our findings from a systematic review to improve our current understanding of the disease.
Improving the Anthocyanin Accumulation of Hypocotyls in Radish Sprouts by Hemin-induced NO
Authors: Su Nana , Liu Ze , Chen Hui , Niu Mengyang , Cui Jin
Published: December 2020

Background: The biosynthesis of anthocyanin in the hypocotyls of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) sprouts was enhanced by hemin in our preliminary experiments, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we found that NO (nitric oxide) exerted an essential role in Hemin-regulated anthocyanin biosynthesis, which was supported by the following results.Results: Hemin boosted anthocyanin as well as NO content. NO-scavenger cPTIO (carboxy-PTIO) significantly attenuated hemin-induced increase of anthocyanin content, transcripts of anthocyanin synthesis related genes and positive transcription factors, implying that NO played a prominent role during hemin-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis. Hemin specific inhibitor ZnPP (Zinc Protoporphyrin) strongly reduced anthocyanin content, while, NO donor SNP (Sodium Nitroprusside) addition considerably reversed this inhibition and by contrast, resulted in a significant increase in anthocyanin accumulation, closely paralleling the transcripts of structural genes and transcription factors. Moreover, NO content, NR (nitrate reductase) activity and expression level of NOA (nitric oxide associated factor) were up-regulated by Hemin. Conclusions:Those consequences indicated that NO might work downstream in Hemin-heightened anthocyanin accumulation in radish sprouts.
Functional Gene Assessment of Wheat: Breeding Implication in Ningxia Province
Authors: Zhang Weijun , Zhao Junjie , He Jinshang , Kang Ling , Wang Xiaoliang , Zhang Fuguo , Hao Chenyang , Ma Xiongfeng , Chen Dongsheng
Published: December 2020

Background: The overall genetic distribution and divergences for cloned genes among wheat varieties that occurred during the breeding process of the past few decades in Ningxia province of China are poorly understood. Here we report the genetic diversities of 44 important genes underpinning grain yield, quality, adaptation and resistance in 121 Ningxia and 86 introduced wheat cultivars and advanced lines.Results: Population structure indicated characteristics of genetic components of Ningxia wheats including landraces of particular genetic resources, introduced varieties with rich genetic diversities and modern cultivars in different times. Analysis of allele frequencies showed that dwarfing alleles Rht-B1b at Rht-B1 and Rht-D1b at Rht-D1 , 1BL/1RS translocation, Hap-1 at GW2-6B and Hap-H at Sus2-2B are present very frequently in Ningxia modern cultivars and introduced varieties from other regions, but absent in landraces, indicating that the introduced wheat germplasm with numerous beneficial genes are vital for broadening genetic diversities of Ningxia wheat varieties. Large population differentiation occurred at adaptation genes between modern cultivars and well-adapted landraces. Founder parents have excellent allele combinations of important genes with a higher number of favorable alleles compared with modern cultivars. The gene flows manifested that six founder parents greatly contributed to breeding improvement in Ningxia province, in particular Zhou 8425B for yield related genes.Conclusions: These results will greatly benefit for wheat breeding in Ningxia province and other areas with similar ecological environments.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Genes Involved in Penicillium Chrysogenum Induced Resistance to Root-knot Nematode in Tomato 
Authors: Zhang Mengyue , Sikandar Aatika , Zhu Xiaofeng , Wang Yuanyuan , Liu Xiaoyu , Fan Haiyan , Xuan Yuanhu , Chen Lijie , Duan Yuxi
Published: December 2020

Background: Tomato root-knot nematode is a soil-borne disease caused by Meloidogyne incognita. Enhancement of natural plant-defense mechanisms to provide resistance against pathogens may be a promising alternative environmentally friendly nematode management approach. Recently, the biocontrol effect against different pathogens in the presence of Penicillium chrysogenum has been reported in a wide range of plants and pathogens. For understanding the molecular mechanisms of the resistance induced by P. chrysogenum Snef1216 to RKN, transcriptomes of inducer control ‘IRCK’ (induced by Snef1216 only) and pathogen + inducer ‘IRN’ were compared to those of control groups, namely negative control ‘CKCK’ (no inoculum), pathogen control ‘CKN’ (inoculum of RKN only).Results: Numerous high-quality reads were generated by Novogene, means of the RNA-seq method. After being aligned to the reference genome, four comparative transcriptomic profile maps between any pairwise comparisons were obtained to find significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and three databases of induced resistance (IR)-related, nematode pathogenesis (NP)-related and basal resistance (BR)-related genes were gotten. By hierarchal clustering, the phylogenetic relationship between highly and fewer DGEs were obtained and classified the resistance and susceptible responses into two clusters after inoculation with RKN. Finally, the results were verified by RT-qPCR and analysis of important plant defense enzymes.Conclusions: Within an integrated and more sustainable management approach, the use of biocontrol organisms, like P. chrysogenum, seems to be a promising alternative.
Time-of-day Dependent Light Effects on Subjective Affect and Comfort
Authors: Chen Lijun , Yan Fangfang , Fan Shuhan , Wu Yifan , Yang Jia , Yang Hua , Huang Chang-Bing
Published: December 2020

Light, one of the key environmental components for both life and work, played significant role in subjective feelings (e.g. affect and comfort), but the exact effects and mechanisms were still to be determined. The present study screened thirty healthy adults (13 females, 22.45 ± 3.26 years) and examined subjective affect and comfort under short-term white lights with different combination of correlated color temperature (CCT) and illuminance at different times of day (e.g. morning, afternoon, and evening). Our results showed a significant interaction between illuminance level and time-of-day on subjective comfort. Participants felt more comfortable under 50 lx and 100 lx instead of 500 lx in the evening, and more comfortable under 500 lx in the morning and afternoon. In addition, a positive correlation between illuminance and comfort in the morning and a negative correlation between them in the evening were found. No significant effect of CCT on any subjective feeling was revealed. Our results necessitate the consideration of time-of-day in understanding lighting effects and application of healthy lighting in daily life.
Improper Acupuncture Causing Severe Multiple Soft Tissue Damage: A Case Report
Authors: xie yulong , peng yan , zhou wengzong , qin qiantong , wang hui , ni bing , wang wenjie , li tianyu , liu yanqing , jiang donghong , dong yunxia , miao rui
Published: December 2020

Background Acupuncture therapy is well known. But there is no report that acupuncture in patients with coagulation dysfunction in stroke may lead to severe soft tissue injury. we report a case of acupuncture leading to severe soft tissue injury.Methods A 63-year-old female patient was hospitalized for stroke rehabilitation. After 2 years of discharge, severe subcutaneous hematoma caused by acupuncture was readmitted to hospital. She received medication and physical rehabilitation. we monitored the international standardized ratio (INR) in plasma and observed the degree of dissipation of subcutaneous hematoma. the changes of patients during treatment were explored by data analysis.Findings Subcutaneous hematoma (area 20×20 cm) disappeared completely after 3 weeks of physical factor therapy. Small range (area ≤3×3 cm) subcutaneous hematoma can heal itself within 2 weeks. Improper acupuncture is only one of the causes of soft tissue injury. Stroke with coagulation dysfunction is not a contraindication of acupuncture treatment.Interpretation Our report suggests that previously unanticipated acupuncture treatment for stroke patients with coagulation dysfunction may lead to severe multiple soft tissue injuries. Although coagulation dysfunction is not a contraindication of acupuncture treatment, acupuncture treatment for stroke patients with coagulation dysfunction should be vigilant, strengthen the level of acupuncture operation, and fundamentally eliminate the problem. These cases are validation and supplement of adverse clinical reactions caused by improper acupuncture.
Rubella Virus-associated Uveitis: The Essentiality of Aqueous Humor Virological Analysis
Authors: Provost Julien , Labetoulle Marc , Bouthry Elise , Haigh Oscar , Leleu Igor , Kobal Alfred , Mouriaux Frédéric , Barreau Emmanuel , Vauloup-Fellous Christelle , Rousseau Antoine
Published: December 2020

Aims / background: Rubella virus-associated uveitis (RVAU) classically presents with the clinical features of Fuchs uveitis syndrome (FUS). We report a series RVAU, and discuss the relevance of available diagnostic strategies, and vaccination to prevent disease. Methods: We retrospectively included patients with RV-positive aqueous humor (AH) with RT-PCR and/or intraocular RV-IgG production, between January 2014 and December 2019. RV-IgG titers from AH and serum were compared with other virus-specific IgG titers (VZV and/or CMV and/or HSV-1), to determine the derived Goldmann-Witmer coefficient (GWC’). Clinical findings at presentation and during follow-up are reported, as well as the anti-RV vaccination status.Results: All 13 included patients demonstrated intraocular synthesis of RV-IgG (median GWC’: 9.5; 3.2-100). RV-RNA was detected in one patient while PCR results were negative for other HSV1, VZV and CMV. The mean delay in diagnosis was 13 ± 12.6 years, with an initial presentation of FUS in only 3 patients (23%). Only four patients had been vaccinated, but all after the recommended age. Conclusion: As RVAU is a pleiomorphic entity, virological analysis (RV RT-PCR and GWC’) of aqueous humor is essential to improve the diagnosis and management of this entity. Improper vaccination against RV appears to be implicated in RVAU.
Construction of an Effective Delivery System for DNA Vaccines Using Biodegradable Polylactic Acid Based Microspheres
Authors: Ren Shuaikai , Guo Liang , Wang Chunxin , Ru Jiaxi , Yang Yunqi , Wang Yan , Sun Changjiao , Cui Haixin , Zhao Xiang , Guo Huichen
Published: December 2020

Background: Nanotechnology represents a new impetus for biomedical research applications, especially using nanotechnology to formulate microspheres or nanospheres based delivery system for treatment of infectious diseases in animals.Results: Polylactic acid (PLA) microspheres with an average size of 156nm were prepared by combining emulsion polymerization coupled with emulsion−solvent evaporation. Coating with three different molecular weights of polyethylenimine (PEI) polymers increased the surface charges of the resulting PLA/PEI microspheres. Electrostatic interactions enabled plasmid DNA to adsorb tightly to the microspheres. After pig kidney-15 cells were cultured with the PLA/PEI/DNA complexes for 48 h, all three PLA/PEI microspheres successfully transferred plasmid DNA into the cells with high transfection efficiency. The protection rate of PLA/PEI microspheres loaded with DNA vaccine against foot-and-mouth disease in guinea pigs reached 87.5%, which was significantly higher than that of the control group injected with only DNA vaccine.Conclusions: In this work, PLA/PEI microspheres were constructed by preparing PLA microspheres and modifying with PEI polymers, and were shown a great potential in improve the efficacy, biosafety and economic effects of DNA vaccines. The results indicated PLA/PEI microspheres were expected to be an effective delivery system for DNA vaccines.
Comparison of Various Orgainc Acids for xylo-oligosaccharide Productions in Term of pKa Values and Combined Severity
Authors: Cao Rou , Liu Xinlu , Guo Jianming , Xu Yong
Published: December 2020

Background: Methods to produce XOS have been intensively investigated, including enzymatic hydrolysis, steam explosion, and acid hydrolysis. Acid hydrolysis is currently the most widely used method to produce XOS due to its advantages of fewer processing steps, stronger raw material adaptability, higher yield, and better reproducibility. Especially, organic acids such as acetic acid, formic acid and xylonic acid work better as compared with mineral acids. However, the catalytic mechanism of different organic acids has been little studied. In this paper, four different organic acids, including formic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and acetic acid were selected to compare their hydrolytic effects.Results: Using pKa values as the benchmark, the yield of XOS increased with the increasing value of pKa. The yield of XOS was 37% when hydrolyzed by 5% acetic acid (pKa=4.75) at 170℃ for 20 min. Combined severity (CS), a parameter associated with temperature and reaction time was proposed, was proposed to evaluate the hydrolysis effect. The results of CS were consistent with that of pKa values on both the yield of XOS and the inhibitor.Conclusion: The results based on pKa values and combined severity, a parameter associated with temperature and reaction time, concluded that acetic acid is a preferred catalyst. Combining the techno-economic analysis and environmental benefits, acetic acid hydrolysis process has lower factory production costs, and it is also an important metabolite and a carbon source for wastewater anaerobic biological treatment. In conclusion, production of xylo-oligosaccharides by acetic acid is an inexpensive, environment-friendly, and sustainable processing technique.
Polyploidization, hybridization, and maternal and paternal lineages in Cyprinids (Teleostei: Cypriniformes)
Authors: Wen Yan ling , Chai Jing , Ma Wei , Murphy Robert W. , He Shunping , Chen Ziming , Zhang Ya-ping , Lu Xuemei
Published: December 2020

Background

The reconstruction of phylogenetic relationships for allopolyploids using genomic data is challenging because hybridization and polyploidy can blur history. In cyprinids, one allopolyploidization event involves goldfish and common carp, yet little is known about the origins of other cyprinid polyploid lineages, including their maternal and paternal ancestral lineages.
Results

Herein we employ 10 HOX genes, genomic and transcriptomic data of representative species from seven subfamilies in Cyprinidae to investigate the origins of polyploid lineages. Analyses of the nuclear and mitochondria genomes reveal that the Schizothoracinae and Cyprininae share the same maternal common ancestor, and identify the candidate genes for identifying maternal gene-copies from Cyprininae. Gene-trees show a close relationship between Sinocyclocheilus grahami and Cyprininae, and indicate that they share the same whole genome duplication (WGD) event about 12.10 ~ 14.03 Ma. Another allopolyploidization event involves Torinae; one duplication clustering with Schizothoracinae and Schizopygopsinae identifies them as paternal siblings. Further, Labeoninae has a history of recurrent hybridization, which is supported by both gene-trees from genomes and HOX genes.
Conclusions

Collectively, the diverse WGD history makes Cyprinidae a candidate system for investigating the origin of hybridization and polyploidization in vertebrates. Further investigations should enlarge the representatives, combine morphological traits, and reconstruct gene-trees based on whole-genome markers.
Exposed facets dictate microbial methylation potential of mercury sulfide nanoparticles
Authors: Tian Li , Guan Wenyu , Ji Yunyun , He Xin , Chen Wei , Alvarez Pedro , Zhang Tong
Published: December 2020

Methylmercury formation is the major concern of global mercury contamination. Accurate prediction of methylmercury production remains elusive due in part to the lack of mechanistic understanding of microbial methylation potential of particulate-phase mercury. Here we show that the methylation potential of nanoparticulate metacinnabar, which is formed during the early stage of mercury mineralization and is ubiquitous in contaminated soils and sediments, is determined by its exposed facets. Nanoparticulate metacinnabar with higher (111) content exhibits significantly greater affinity to the methylating bacterium Desulfovibrio desulfuricans ND132, leading to higher methylmercury production. This is likely attributable to the favored binding between the (111) facet and the protein transporter responsible for mercury cellular uptake prior to methylation. The (111) facet of metacinnabar tends to diminish during nanocrystal growth, but natural ligands alleviate this process by preferentially adsorbing to the (111) facet (verified with adsorption experiments using facet-engineered model materials coupled with theoretical calculations). This facet evolution of metacinnabar and its subsequent effect on mercury bioavailability explain the intriguing observation that methylation potential of nanoparticulate mercury is surface-area-independent. Our discovery provides new mechanistic insights for interfacial processes involved in nanoparticle−microorganism interactions that have important implications for understanding the environmental behavior of mercury and other nutrient or toxic elements associated with widely present crystalline nanoparticles.
Bilateral Transversus Thoracis Muscle Plane Block Provides Effective Analgesia and Enhances Recovery After Open Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Zhang Yang , Gong Haixia , Zhan Biming , Chen Shibiao
Published: December 2020

Background: The mid-sternum is the main source of pain after open cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of bilateral transversus thoracis muscle plane (TTMP) blocks on open cardiac surgery.Methods: Sixty patients were randomly divided into two groups：bilateral TTMP blocks (TP group) or no nerve block (CO group). The primary endpoint was perioperative sufentanil consumption. The secondary outcome measures included postoperative pain, flurbiprofen axetil administration, quality of sleep after extubation, time to extubation, time to the return of gastrointestinal function, time to drain removal, the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay time and hospital stay.Results: The TP group reported significantly less sufentanil and flurbiprofen axetil consumption than the CO group. The CO group had higher Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain scores at 1, 2, 6,12, 24 h after extubation both at rest and during movement than the TP groups. Compared to the CO group, time to extubation, time to the first bowel movement, ICU stay time and hospital stay were significantly decreased in the TP group. The TP group was rated as better in the quality of the two nights of sleep after extubation.Conclusion: Bilateral TTMP blocks can provide good perioperative analgesia for patients undergoing open cardiac surgery and promote postoperative recovery. Trial registration: This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000032318) on 04/08/2019.
Comparative Assessment of the Diagnostic Performance of PCA3 in Urinary Sediments and Exosomes for Prostate Cancer in Chinese Population with the Total PSA range of 4-10 ng/ml.
Authors: Fang Zhenqiang , He Fan , Feng Huan , Jia Weishen , Sun Mengjia , Chen Tingting , Wu Ronghua , Fu Weihua
Published: December 2020

Background: The diagnostic value of prostate cancer antigen-3 (PCA3) in urine sediment and exosome in Chinese patients with total prostate specific antigen (PSA) ranging from 4-10ng/ml.Methods: Serum and urine samples were collected from consecutive eligible patients. The PCA3 and PSA mRNA were tested by quantitative real-time PCR. Results: Overall 130 patients were involved in this study. 113 cases in urinary sediments group and 103 cases in urinary exosomes group were finally analyzed. 24 of 130 patients (18.5%), 20 of 113 patients (17.7%) and 17 of 103 patients (16.5%) were diagnosed as PCa in the three groups, respectively. The PCA3 score and PSAD of patients with positive biopsy results were significantly higher than those with negative biopsy results in both the urinary sediments and exosomes groups, but no differences between two urinary substrates groups. The ROC analysis showed the higher values of AUC of the PCA3 score in urinary sediments and exosomes than that of serum PSA (0.728 vs 0.540, P = 0.0402; 0.740 vs 0.540, P = 0.0263), but no significant difference in term of AUC of PCA3 between two urinary substrates groups (0.728 vs 0.740, P = 0.9000), as well as when compared the AUC of the PCA3 score with that of %fPSA and PSAD (P > 0.05).Conclusion: The current evidence suggests that diagnostic performances of PCA3 in urinary sediments and exosomes were not significant different, but both were superior to serum PSA in Chinese patients with PSA 4–10ng/ml.
LINC00514 upregulates CCDC71L to Promote Cellular Process in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer by Sponging miR-6504-5p and miR-3139
Authors: Luo Xiao , Wang Hui
Published: December 2020

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently identified as essential gene modulators in numerous cancers. Previous studies have confirmed the oncogenic role of long intergenic nonprotein-coding RNA 00514 (LINC00514) in some cancers. Nevertheless, its biological function and mechanism remain elusive in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Methods: Herein, we detected LINC00514 expression level in TNBC tissues and cells via RT-qPCR. The function of LINC00514 in TNBC cellular activities was assessed via colony formation, EdU, wound healing, transwell assays and flow cytometry analysis. Results: The binding between miR-6504-5p/miR-3139 and LINC00514/CCDC71L was validated by luciferase reporter assay. The data indicated that LINC00514 expression was increased in TNBC tissues and cells. Furthermore, it was manifested that silenced LINC00514 restrained cell proliferative, migratory and invasive abilities and accelerated cell apoptosis. In mechanism, LINC00514 was revealed to sequester miR-6504-5p and miR-3139 in TNBC cells. Furthermore, the low level of miR-6504-5p and miR-3139 was discovered in TNBC tissues and cells. Accordingly, we discovered overexpression of miR-6504-5p or miR-3139 retarded cell growth and migration in TNBC. Later, CCDC71L was recognized as a common downstream gene of miR-6504-5p and miR-3139. Rescue assay verified that overexpressed CCDC71L countervailed the inhibitive influence of LINC00514 knockdown in TNBC cellular process. Conclusion: MiR-6504-5p and miR-3139 were involved in LINC00514-mediated cellular activities through regulating CCDC71L expression, which provided a novel LINC00514/miR-6504-5p/miR-3139/CCDC71L axis in TNBC.
Construction and Validation of a Novel Eight-Gene Risk Score to Predict the Malignant Progression and Prognoses in Bladder Cancer Patients
Authors: Wang Ruiliang , Zheng Zongtai , Mao Shiyu , Zhang Wentao , Liu Ji , Li Cheng , Liu Shenghua , Yao Xudong
Published: December 2020

The progression from non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) to muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) largely predisposes a life-threatening risk. Owing to this, it is of paramount importance to find new relevant molecular models that will allow for effectively predict the malignant progression of BC. Based on the RNA-Sequence data of 49 BC patients in our center and weighted gene co-expression network analysis methods, a co-expression network was developed using these genes before selecting the three key modules. Univariate Cox regression was used to select the key module genes with prognostic value in The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA). Subsequently, we developed an eight-gene risk score using the Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox model. Notably, the eight-gene risk score was observed to be closely related to the malignant clinical features and also showed a favorable predictive power of differentiation between NMIBC and MIBC in the training (TCGA) and the two validation sets (GSE3289 and GSE13507). Furthermore, we generated a nomogram for predicting the overall survival. Both the calibrations and decision curve analysis curves displayed predictive effectiveness of the nomogram. Lastly, the RT-qPCR results revealed that the majority of the eight genes were differentially expressed between BC cell lines and a normal bladder epithelial cell line. Hence, from our study, we established a model of eight-gene risk score, with the potential of predicting malignant progression and determine prognoses of BC patients.
Amelioration of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli-induced disruption of intestinal epithelium by Manno-oligosaccharide in weaned pigs
Authors: Yu En , Chen Daiwen , Yu Bing , Luo Yuheng , Zheng Ping , Yin Heng , Mao XiangBing , Huang Zhiqing , Yu Jie , Luo Junqiu , Yan Hui , He Jun
Published: December 2020

Background: Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is one of the major bacterial causes leading to diarrhea and disruption of intestinal epithelium in neonatal animals. Manno-oligosaccharide (MOS) is a prebiotic deprived from natural plants or yeasts. Here, we explored the protective effect of MOS on intestinal epithelium in weaned pigs upon ETEC challenge. Methods: Thirty-two pigs were randomly assigned into four treatments and fed with a basal diet or basal diet containing 0.3% MOS. On day 19, pigs were challenged by ETEC or culture medium. Results: MOS supplementation reduced diarrhea incidence in the pigs upon ETEC challenge (P<0.05). ETEC-challenge elevated the serum concentrations of D-lactate and diamine oxidase (DAO), however, MOS significantly decreased their concentrations in the serum (P<0.05). Moreover, MOS significantly decreased serum concentrations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the ETEC-challenged pigs (P<0.05). Interestingly, MOS enhanced the expression and localization of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) protein in the duodenal and jejunal epithelium. Moreover, MOS decreased the cell apoptosis rate (P<0.05), but significantly elevated the content of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the jejunal mucosa (P<0.05). Importantly, MOS decreased the expression levels of critical genes involving in mucosal inflammatory responses (TNF-α, IL-1β, TLR4, and NF-κB) and the apoptosis (Caspase 3, Caspase 9, and Bax) in the jejunum upon ETEC challenge (P<0.05). Moreover, MOS up-regulated the expression of mucosa functional genes such as the heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the jejunum and ileum (P<0.05), and elevated the expression level of β-defensin 114 (PBD-114) in the duodenum upon ETEC challenge. Conclusions: These results suggested that MOS can alleviate ETEC-induced disruption of intestinal barrier in weaned pigs, which was associated with suppressed inflammation and epithelial cell apoptosis, and improved antioxidant capacity and intestinal barrier functions.
Zonal Characterization and Differential Trilineage Potentials of Equine Intrasynovial Deep Digital Flexor Tendon-Derived Cells
Authors: Quam Vivian G , Altmann Nadine N , Brokken Matthew T , Durgam Sushmitha
Published: December 2020

Background: Intrasynovial deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) injury is a common cause for forelimb lameness in horses and are typically associated with poor outcomes. Intrasynovial tendon contains a superficial fibrocartilage in response to compressive forces from an opposing boney prominence, and is critical for tendon gliding function. Characterization of tendon-derived cells (TDC) from intrasynovial tendon fibrocartilage has not been conducted as for prototypical extrasynovial tendon and is necessary for developing improved therapeutic strategies. Results: In this study, we successfully isolated homogenous TDC from the fibrocartilaginous (fTDC) and tendinous (tTDC) zones of equine forelimb intrasynovial DDFT via low-density plating method. During monolayer passage, both TDC subpopulations exhibited clonogenicity, high in vitro proliferation rate, and fibroblast-like morphology. Third passage fTDC and tTDC were positive for cell surface antigens CD90 and CD29 and negative for CD44 and CD45. There were no significant differences in the basal tenogenic, osteogenic and chondrogenic marker expressions of fTDC and tTDC. Trilineage differentiation demonstrated that fTDC were largely restricted to chondrogenic differentiation; whereas, those from the tendinous zone underwent osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation. Both TDC subpopulations displayed weak adipogenic differentiation potentials. Conclusions: These results provide a foundation for studies exploring cell-based therapies for intrasynovial tendon repair as these TDC are potential targets to enhance intrinsic repair capacity. Pending further investigation, promoting chondrogenic properties in cells administered exogenously into the intrasynovial space may be beneficial for intrasynovial tendon regeneration.