bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multivariate analysis of morphology, behaviour, growth and developmental timing in hybrids brings new insights into the divergence of sympatric Arctic charr morphs
Authors: Horta-Lacueva Quentin J.-B. , Snorrason Sigurður S. , Morrissey Michael B. , Leblanc Camille A.-L. , Kapralova Kalina H.
Published: September 2021

Background

Studying the development of fitness related traits in hybrids from populations diverging in sympatry is a fundamental approach to understand the processes of speciation. However, such traits are often affected by covariance structures that complicate the comprehension of these processes, especially because the interactive relationships between traits of different nature (e.g. morphology, behaviour, life-history) remain largely unknown in this context. In a common garden setup, we conducted an extensive examination of a large suit of traits putatively involved in the divergence of two morphs of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus), and investigated the consequences of potential patterns of trait covariance on the phenotype of their hybrids. These traits were measured along ontogeny and involved growth, yolk sac resorption, developmental timing (hatching and the onset of exogeneous feeding), head morphology and feeding behaviour.

Results

Growth trajectories provided the strongest signal of phenotypic divergence between the two charr. Strikingly, the first-generation hybrids did not show intermediate nor delayed growth but were similar to the smallest morph, suggesting parental biases in the inheritance of growth patterns. However, we did not observe extensive multivariate trait differences between the two morphs and their hybrids. Growth was linked to head morphology (suggesting that morphological variations in early juveniles relate to simple allometric effects) but this was the only strong signal of covariance observed between all the measured traits. Furthermore, we did not report evidence for differences in overall phenotypic variance between morphs, nor for enhanced phenotypic variability in their hybrids.

Conclusion

Our study shed light on the multivariate aspect of development in a context of adaptive divergence. The lack of evidence for the integration of most traits into a single covariance structure suggested that phenotypic constraints may not always favour nor impede divergence toward ecological niches differing in numerous physical and ecological variables, as observed in the respective habitats of the two charr. Likewise, the role of hybridization as a disruptive agent of trait covariance may not necessarily be significant in the evolution of populations undergoing resource polymorphism.
The chloroplast genome of Amygdalus L. (Rosaceae) reveals the phylogenetic relationship and divergence time
Authors: Du Zhongyu , Lu Ke , Zhang Kai , He Yiming , Wang Haitao , Chai Guaiqiang , Shi Jianguo , Duan Yizhong
Published: September 2021

Background

Limited access to genetic information has greatly hindered our understanding of the molecular evolution, phylogeny, and differentiation time of subg.Amygdalus. This study reported complete chloroplast (cp) genome sequences of subg.Amygdalus, which further enriched the available valuable resources of complete cp genomes of higher plants and deepened our understanding of the divergence time and phylogenetic relationships of subg.Amygdalus.

Results

The results showed that subg.Amygdalusspecies exhibited a tetrad structure with sizes ranging from 157,736 bp (P. kansuensis) to 158,971 bp (P. davidiana), a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRa/IRb) that ranged from 26,137–26,467 bp, a large single-copy region that ranged from 85,757–86,608 bp, and a small single-copy region that ranged from 19,020–19,133 bp. The average GC content of the complete cp genomes in the 12 species was 36.80%. We found that the structure of the subg.Amygdaluscomplete cp genomes was highly conserved, and the 12 subg.Amygdalusspecies had anrps19 pseudogene. There was not rearrangement of the complete cp genome in the 12 subg.Amygdalusspecies. All 12 subg.Amygdalusspecies clustered into one clade based on both Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood. The divergence time analyses based on the complete cp genome sequences showed that subg.Amygdalusspecies diverged approximately 15.65 Mya.

Conclusion

Our results provide data on the genomic structure of subg.Amygdalusand elucidates their phylogenetic relationships and divergence time.
Genome-wide analysis of OSCA gene family members in Vigna radiata and their involvement in the osmotic response
Authors: Yin Lili , Zhang Meiling , Wu Ruigang , Chen Xiaoliang , Liu Fei , Xing Baolong
Published: September 2021

Background

Mung bean (Vigna radiata) is a warm-season legume crop and belongs to the papilionoid subfamily of the Fabaceae family. China is the leading producer of mung bean in the world. Mung bean has significant economic and health benefits and is a promising species with broad adaptation ability and high tolerance to environmental stresses. OSCA (hyperosmolality-gated calcium-permeable channel) gene family members play an important role in the modulation of hypertonic stress, such as drought and salinity. However, genome-wide analysis of the OSCA gene family has not been conducted in mung bean.

Results

We identified a total of 13 OSCA genes in the mung bean genome and named them according to their homology with AtOSCAs. All the OSCAs were phylogenetically split into four clades. Phylogenetic relationship and synteny analyses showed that the VrOSCAs in mung bean and soybean shared a relatively conserved evolutionary history. In addition, three duplicated VrOSCA gene pairs were identified, and the duplicated VrOSCAs gene pairs mainly underwent purifying selection pressure during evolution. Protein domain, motif and transmembrane analyses indicated that most of the VrOSCAs shared similar structures with their homologs. The expression pattern showed that except for VrOSCA2.1, the other 12 VrOSCAs were upregulated under treatment with ABA, PEG and NaCl, among which VrOSCA1.4 showed the largest increased expression levels. The duplicated genes VrOSCA2.1/VrOSCA2.2 showed divergent expression, which might have resulted in functionalization during subsequent evolution. The expression profiles under ABA, PEG and NaCl stress revealed a functional divergence of VrOSCA genes, which agreed with the analysis of cis-acting regulatory elements in the promoter regions of VrOSCA genes.

Conclusions

Collectively, the study provided a systematic analysis of the VrOSCA gene family in mung bean. Our results establish an important foundation for functional and evolutionary analysis of VrOSCAs and identify genes for further investigation of their ability to confer abiotic stress tolerance in mung bean.
High flow versus conventional nasal cannula for oxygenation and ventilation maintenance during surgery with intravenous deep sedation by propofol: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Vijitpavan Amorn , Kooncharoensuk Yanin
Published: September 2021

Background

The dead space washout and provision of some level of positive airway pressure by nasal high-flow (NHF) cannula could improve the efficiency of ventilation, oxygenation and maintenance of the upper airway in patients undergoing deep sedation. This study aimed to compare the incidences of events represented oxygenation and ventilation, i.e. desaturation and upper airway obstruction, and arterial blood gas (ABG) levels between using NHF cannula and conventional nasal cannula (NC2) during deep sedation of adult surgical patients.

Methods

In this prospective randomized single-blinded study, the patients who were 20–80 years old, ASA physical status of 1 to 3, scheduled for surgery under intravenous sedation (IVS) were included. The patients were randomly divided into two groups, i.e., NC2 or NHF groups. Propofol infusion was given to maintain deep sedation. The desaturation (SpO2 < 92%) and upper airway obstruction events (presence of snoring with paradoxical breathing) after application of NC2 or NHF were observed and collected. Other outcomes included interventions during IVS, such as jaw lifting or airway instrument insertion, mouth dryness, and post- ABG analyses were also collected and compared.

Results

Thirty-six patients undergoing endovascular surgery were randomized into NC2 or NHF groups (18 in each group). No patients dropped out of the study. There were no significant differences in age, sex, ASA physical status, pre-sedation and pre-application of NC2 and NHF ABG analyses (PaO2, SaO2, pH, PaCO2, and PaO2/FiO2). NHF group had significantly lower in the incidence of desaturation [5 (27.78%) vs 13 (72.22%), p = 0.008], upper airway obstruction [4 (22.22%) vs 13 (72.22%), p = 0.003], and airway maneuver [6 (33.33%) vs 13 (72.22%), p = 0.019] than NC2 group. There were no differences in the ABG analyses after oxygen supplementation and no significant differences in mouth dryness between groups.

Conclusion

The use of NHF cannula in patients undergoing endovascular surgery under deep sedation reduced desaturation events and required fewer airway interventions than NC2 with no difference in arterial blood gas analyses and mouth dryness.
Psychometric evaluation of the postpartum specific anxiety scale in an Iranian population (PSAS-IR)
Authors: Hasanzadeh Robab , Jafarabadi Mohammad Asghari , Hasanpour Shirin , Fallon Victoria , Silverio Sergio A. , Montazeri Reyhane , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: September 2021

Background

Anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders among mothers during the postpartum period, which can lead to maternal and infant physical and psychological consequences. The Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale (PSAS) predicts unique variance in postnatal outcomes over and above general anxiety tools. It has never been used in Iran and its validity and reliability have not been assessed either. Therefore, the present study aimed to translate and investigate the psychometric properties of the PSAS-IR.

Methods

510 women, from six weeks to six months postpartum, were selected through random sampling in 2020. After forward and back-translation, the face validity, content validity, and construct validity of PSAS (through confirmatory factor analysis) were examined. The reliability of the scale was assessed using both internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and test-retest stability methods.

Results

CVI and CVR values of the PSAS tool were 0.89 and 0.88, respectively. The good fit indices confirmed the validity of four-factor structure. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and Intra Correlation Coefficient (ICC) equaled 0.93 and 0.92, respectively.

Conclusion

The Persian version of PSAS is a valid and reliable four-factor scale, it will improve the measurement of postpartum anxiety in an Iranian setting. This will improve the measurement of postpartum anxiety in an Iranian setting.
Postpartum dietary and physical activity-related beliefs and behaviors among women with recent gestational diabetes mellitus: a qualitative study from Singapore
Authors: Teh Kailin , Quek Imm Pin , Tang Wern Ee
Published: September 2021

Background

A woman with a history of GDM has at least seven-fold increased lifetime risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), compared to women who have normoglycemic pregnancies. Postpartum lifestyle modification has been shown to reduce postpartum weight retention and prevent the progression to T2DM. The aim of this study was to explore the postpartum dietary and physical activity-related beliefs and behaviors among women in Singapore who had GDM in their most recent pregnancies.

Methods

Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 women, who were up to four months postpartum and had GDM in their most recent pregnancies. Interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes were identified in the analysis: (1) risk perception and knowledge regarding future diabetes, (2) suboptimal diet and physical activity after delivery and (3) factors influencing the postpartum lifestyle.

Conclusions

The study findings provided useful information on the postpartum lifestyle beliefs and behaviors among women with a history of GDM. Most participants had low risk perception of future diabetes and their diet and physical activity after delivery were suboptimal due to various influences. These insights can be used to design tailored materials and programs to support women who have had GDM reduce their risk of developing future T2DM.
The role of education on Cancer amenable mortality among non-Hispanic blacks & non-Hispanic whites in the United States (1989–2018)
Authors: Barcelo Alberto , Duffett-Leger Linda , Pastor-Valero Maria , Pereira Juliana , Colugnati Fernando A. B. , Trapido Edward
Published: September 2021

Background

Cancer mortality in the U.S. has fallen in recent decades; however, individuals with lower levels of education experienced a smaller decline than more highly educated individuals. This analysis aimed to measure the influence of education lower than a high school diploma, on cancer amenable mortality among Non-Hispanic Whites (NHW) and Non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB) in the U.S. from 1989 to 2018.

Methods

We analyzed data from 8.2 million death certificates of men and women who died from cancer between 1989 and 2018. We examined 5-year and calendar period intervals, as well as annual percent changes (APC). APC was adjusted for each combination of sex, educational level, and race categories (8 models) to separate the general trend from the effects of age.

Results

Our study demonstrated an increasing mortality gap between the least and the most educated NHW and NHB males and females who died from all cancers combined and for most other cancer types included in this study. The gap between the least and the most educated was broader among NHW males and females than among NHB males and females, respectively, for most malignancies.

Conclusions

In summary, we reported an increasing gap in the age-adjusted cancer mortality among the most and the least educated NHW and NHB between 25 and 74 years of age. We demonstrated that although NHB exhibited the greatest age-adjusted mortality rates for most cancer locations, the gap between the most and the least educated was shown for NHW.
Topical gel based nanoparticles for the controlled release of oleanolic acid: design and in vivo characterization of a cubic liquid crystalline anti-inflammatory drug
Authors: Shi Zhiqi , Pan Shugang , Wang Luolin , Li Sha
Published: September 2021

Background

Oleanolic acid (OA) has multiple pharmaceutical applications including anti-inflammatory activity, but low permeability of the molecule limits its widespread use.

Methods

A cubic liquid crystalline nanoparticle (LCNP)-based gel was prepared as a potential topical delivery system for OA. The LCNP-based gel was optimized using rheological, drug release kinetic, and ex vivo permeation studies.

Results

The studies showed that the OA was trapped in the interior of the LCNP with a crystal form of Pn3m space. The optimized LCNP formulation performed well using in vitro release studies for up to 12 h (85.49 ± 0.21%). Ex vivo permeation studies showed that the LCNP-based gel formulation was superior to a standard gel formulation. The r2 value from the Peppas equation indicated good linearity, but showed irregular (non-Fickian) diffusion, suggesting that drug release was controlled by multiple processes.

Conclusions

In this study, OA-loaded LCNPs were prepared by the precursor method, resulting in a well-characterized OA-LCNP gel preparation. The gel was shown to be effective in a rodent carrageenan-induced hind paw inflammation model with sustained efficacy after a single application.
Patient participation in cancer network governance: a six-year case study
Authors: Tremblay Dominique , Touati Nassera , Usher Susan , Bilodeau Karine , Pomey Marie-Pascale , Lévesque Lise
Published: September 2021

Background

Patient participation in decision-making has become a hallmark of responsive healthcare systems. Cancer networks in many countries have committed to involving people living with and beyond cancer (PLC) at multiple levels. However, PLC participation in network governance remains highly variable for reasons that are poorly understood. This study aims to share lessons learned regarding mechanisms that enable PLC participation in cancer network governance.

Methods

This multiple case study, using a qualitative approach in a natural setting, was conducted over six years in three local cancer networks within the larger national cancer network in Quebec (Canada), where PLC participation is prescribed by the Cancer Directorate. Data were collected from multiple sources, including individual and focus group interviews (n = 89) with policymakers, managers, clinicians and PLC involved in national and local cancer governance committees. These data were triangulated and iteratively analysed according to a framework based on functions of collaborative governance in the network context.

Results

We identify three main mechanisms that enable PLC participation in cancer network governance: (1) consistent emphasis on patient-centred care as a network objective; (2) flexibility, time and support to translate mandated PLC representation into meaningful participation; and (3) recognition of the distinct knowledge of PLC in decision-making. The shared vision of person-centred care facilitates PLC participation. The quality of participation improves through changes in how committee meetings are conducted, and through the establishment of a national committee where PLC can pool their experience, develop skills and establish a common voice on priority issues. PLC knowledge is especially valued around particular challenges such as designing integrated care trajectories and overcoming barriers to accessing care. These three mechanisms interact to enable PLC participation in governance and are activated to varying extents in each local network.

Conclusions

This study reveals that mandating PLC representation on governance structures is a powerful context element enabling participation, but that it also delineates which governance functions are open to influence from PLC participation. While the activation of mechanisms is context dependent, the insights from this study in Quebec are transferable to cancer networks in other jurisdictions seeking to embed PLC participation in decision-making.
Renal function and lipid metabolism are major predictors of circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness—the LIFE-Adult Study
Authors: Rauscher Franziska G. , Wang Mengyu , Francke Mike , Wirkner Kerstin , Tönjes Anke , Engel Christoph , Thiery Joachim , Stenvinkel Peter , Stumvoll Michael , Loeffler Markus , Elze Tobias , Ebert Thomas
Published: September 2021

Background

Circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (cpRNFLT) as assessed by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) is a new technique used for the detection and evaluation of glaucoma and other optic neuropathies. Before translating cpRNFLT into clinics, it is crucially important to investigate anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical parameters potentially affecting cpRNFLT in a large population-based dataset.

Methods

The population-based LIFE-Adult Study randomly selected 10,000 participants from the population registry of Leipzig, Germany. All participants underwent standardized systemic assessment of various cardiometabolic risk markers and ocular imaging, including cpRNFLT measurement using SD-OCT (Spectralis, Heidelberg Engineering). After employing strict SD-OCT quality criteria, 8952 individuals were analyzed. Multivariable linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the independent associations of various cardiometabolic risk markers with sector-specific cpRNFLT. For significant markers, the relative strength of the observed associations was compared to each other to identify the most relevant factors influencing cpRNFLT. In all analyses, the false discovery rate method for multiple comparisons was applied.

Results

In the entire cohort, female subjects had significantly thicker global and also sectoral cpRNFLT compared to male subjects (p < 0.05). Multivariable linear regression analyses revealed a significant and independent association between global and sectoral cpRNFLT with biomarkers of renal function and lipid profile. Thus, thinner cpRNFLT was associated with worse renal function as assessed by cystatin C and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Furthermore, an adverse lipid profile (i.e., low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, as well as high total, high non-HDL, high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high apolipoprotein B) was independently and statistically significantly related to thicker cpRNFLT. In contrast, we do not observe a significant association between cpRNFLT and markers of inflammation, glucose homeostasis, liver function, blood pressure, or obesity in our sector-specific analysis and globally.

Conclusions

Markers of renal function and lipid metabolism are predictors of sectoral cpRNFLT in a large and deeply phenotyped population-based study independently of previously established covariates. Future studies on cpRNFLT should include these biomarkers and need to investigate whether incorporation will improve the diagnosis of early eye diseases based on cpRNFLT.
The incidence of necrotic enteritis in turkeys is associated with farm, season and faecal Eimeria oocyst counts
Authors: Kaldhusdal Magne , Skjerve Eystein , Hansen Magne Kjerulf , Hamnes Inger Sofie , David Bruce , Hanssen Skjalg Arne , Løvland Atle
Published: September 2021

Background

Specific studies on the epidemiology of necrotic enteritis in turkeys are absent in the literature. Necrotic enteritis is common in turkeys and a leading cause of use of therapeutic antibiotics. This study describes the incidence of necrotic enteritis in turkey farms, and the association between incidence and bird age, season, faecal oocyst counts, grow-out size and feed mill.

Results

Necrotic enteritis was diagnosed post mortem in 20.2 % of 545 grow-outs of commercial female and male B.U.T. 10 turkeys started during the years 2010–2016. 80 % of all cases occurred at four to seven weeks of age. Median (minimum-maximum) age at disease detection was 37 (18–115) days. Turkey age at detection was influenced by season, and varied from 33 days among grow-outs hatched in February to 42 days among those hatched in July-August. The incidence also varied with season, showing peak occurrence among grow-outs hatched during February-March and the lowest incidence in turkeys hatched in July-August. 59 % of all cases were detected in 25 % of the farms. The incidence per farm varied from below 4 to 59 %. A multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model indicated clear impacts of farm and season on incidence, and border-line impacts of grow-out size and feed mill. Grow-outs diagnosed with necrotic enteritis had higher counts of faecal Eimeria oocysts than grow-outs without a diagnosis. This difference was particularly clear during the high-risk period at five to seven weeks of age. Necrotic enteritis was the cause of treatment with therapeutic antibiotics in 88.2 % of all cases of treatment.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that necrotic enteritis incidence in turkeys can be substantially influenced by risk factors at farm level. The incidence showed two seasonal peaks; a moderate peak in turkeys hatched in October/November and a marked peak in turkeys hatched during February/March. Mitigation measures at the farm may therefore be of particular importance during these months in farms located in the Northern temperate zone. Measures which effectively reduce counts of faecal Eimeria oocyst are likely to be among the more promising actions to take both at the farm and at population level.
MAD1L1 and TSNARE gene polymorphisms are associated with schizophrenia susceptibility in the Han Chinese population
Authors: Liu Xianglai , Xie Hailing , Fu Zejuan , Yao Qiankun , Han Tianming , Zhan Dafei , Lin Zhan , Zhu Hong
Published: September 2021

Background

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe mental illness with high heritability. This study aimed to explore the correlation between MAD1L1, TSNARE polymorphisms and SCZ susceptibility.

Methods

A total of 493 SCZ patients and 493 healthy controls were included. The genotypes of MAD1L1 and TSNARE polymorphisms were identified by Agena MassARRAY platform. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were tested via logistic regression analysis in multiple genetic models and different subgroups.

Results

We observed that AG genotype of rs1107592, AG genotype of rs4976976, and CA genotype of rs67756423 decreased the susceptibility to SCZ (p < 0.05). Age stratification analysis showed that the TC genotype of rs12666575, AG genotype of rs1107592, and AG genotype of rs4976976 decreased the risk of SCZ individuals older than 36 years (p < 0.05). In addition, the AG and AA genotype of rs4976976, the CA genotype of rs67756423 were associated with a lower risk of SCZ in males (p < 0.05). In females, the TT genotype of rs12666575 in recessive model, the AG and AA-AG genotype of rs1107592 in heterozygote and dominant model, could reduce the susceptibility to SCZ (p < 0.05). However, no significant association was found after Bonferroni correction.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that MAD1L1 and TSNARE genetic polymorphisms exert a protective role in the risk of SCZ. These findings provide evidence that MAD1L1 and TSNARE may serve as potential biomarkers of SCZ. However, a replication experiment in a cohort with large sample size are required to confirm our findings.

Trial registration Not applicable.
SPECT imaging of pulmonary vascular disease in bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis using a vascular endothelium tracer
Authors: Harel François , Nguyen Quang T. , Nsaibia Mohamed J. , Finnerty Vincent , Morgan Arielle , Sirois Martin , Villeneuve Louis , Calderone Angelino , Bergeron Alexandre , Brochiero Emmanuelle , Tardif Jean-Claude , Shi YanFen , Dupuis Jocelyn
Published: September 2021

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) complicating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is associated to worse outcome. There is a great need for a non-invasive diagnostic modality to detect and evaluate the severity of pulmonary vascular disease (PVD). 99mTc-PulmoBind is a novel imaging agent that binds to the adrenomedullin (AM) receptor on the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. SPECT imaging employing the endothelial cell tracer 99mTc-PulmoBind was used to assess PVD associated with lung fibrosis.

Methods

Rats with selective right lung bleomycin-induced fibrosis were compared to control rats. SPECT imaging was performed after three weeks with 99mTc-PulmoBind and 99mTc-macroaggregates of albumin (MAA). PH and right ventricular (RV) function were assessed by echocardiography. Lung perfusion was evaluated by fluorescent microangiography. Lung AM receptor expression was measured by qPCR and by immunohistology. Relevance to human IPF was explored by measuring AM receptor expression in lung biopsies from IPF patients and healthy controls.

Results

The bleomycin group developed preferential right lung fibrosis with remodeling and reduced perfusion as assessed with fluorescent microangiography. These rats developed PH with RV hypertrophy and dysfunction. 99mTc-PulmoBind uptake was selectively reduced by 50% in the right lung and associated with reduced AM receptor expression, PH and RV hypertrophy. AM receptor was co-expressed with the endothelial cell protein CD31 in alveolar capillaries, and markedly reduced after bleomycin. Quantitative dynamic analysis of 99mTc-PulmoBind uptake in comparison to 99mTc-MAA revealed that the latter distributed only according to flow, with about 60% increased left lung uptake while left lung uptake of 99mTc-PulmoBind was not affected. Lung from human IPF patients showed important reduction in AM receptor expression closely associated with CD31.

Conclusions

SPECT imaging with 99mTc-PulmoBind detects PVD and its severity in bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Reduced AM receptor expression in human IPF supports further clinical development of this imaging approach.
Increased CD9 expression predicts favorable prognosis in human cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Koh Hyun Min , Jang Bo Gun , Lee Dong Hui , Hyun Chang Lim
Published: September 2021

Background

CD9 is implicated in cancer progression and metastasis by its role in suppressing cancer cell proliferation and survival. However, the prognostic and clinicopathological significance of CD9 expression is controversial. Therefore, the current meta-analysis was conducted to determine the prognostic and clinicopathological significance of CD9 expression in cancer patients.

Methods

Eligible studies were selected through database search of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library up to April 5 2020. The necessary data were extracted from the included studies. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to evaluate the prognostic and clinicopathological significance of CD9 expression in cancer patients.

Results

A total of 17 studies consisting of 3456 cancer patients were included in this meta-analysis. An increased CD9 expression was significantly associated with a more favorable overall survival (OS) (HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.31–0.73, p = 0.001) and disease-free survival (DFS) (HR 0.48, 95% CI 0.30–0.79, p = 0.003). In subgroup analysis of cancer type, an increased CD9 expression was associated with increased OS in breast cancer and digestive system cancer, and with increased DFS in head and neck cancer and leukemia/lymphoma. Additionally, an increased CD9 expression significantly correlated with lower overall stage (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.29–0.72, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

An increased CD9 expression was associated with favorable survival in cancer patients suggesting that CD9 expression could be a valuable survival factor in cancer patients.
Therapeutic potential of a novel semi-synthetic-sulfated-polysaccharide to suppress inflammatory mediators in P. gingivalis LPS stimulated human monocytes/macrophages
Authors: Gu Ying , Raja Veena , Lee Hsi-Ming , Hong Houlin , Prestwich Glenn , Ryan Maria E.
Published: September 2021

Background

Chronic periodontitis is associated with an increased risk for systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. During chronic periodontitis, endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) produced byP. gingivalisprovokes monocyte accumulation and differentiation into macrophages and increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs). While normal levels of MMPs are important in cellular function, increased levels of cytokines and MMPs can cause connective tissue destruction.

Results

In the current study, we investigated the therapeutic capability of a novel semi-synthetic sulfated polysaccharide (SAGE) on the production of cytokines and MMPs by cultured human mononuclear cells and macrophages stimulated with endotoxin LPS produced byP. gingivalis, a periodontally-relevant cell culture model. Our research demonstrated SAGE inhibited the LPS induced synthesis of inflammatory mediators including TNF-α, IL-1β, PGE2, and MMP-9 in this periodontal-relevant cell culture model. In addition, TLR-2 and TLR-4 levels were also reduced with the SAGE treatment.

Conclusions

The therapeutic potential of this novel semi-synthetic sulfated polysaccharide compound may help to prevent tissue damage and bone loss in patients with periodontal disease or other inflammatory diseases.
Development of theranostic dual-layered Au-liposome for effective tumor targeting and photothermal therapy
Authors: Jeon Miyeon , Kim Gaeun , Lee Wooseung , Baek Seungki , Jung Han Na , Im Hyung-Jun
Published: September 2021

Background

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is an emerging anti-cancer therapeutic strategy that generates hyperthermia to ablate cancer cells under laser irradiation. Gold (Au) coated liposome (AL) was reported as an effective PTT agent with good biocompatibility and excretory property. However, exposed Au components on liposomes can cause instability in vivo and difficulty in further functionalization.

Results

Herein, we developed a theranostic dual-layered nanomaterial by adding liposomal layer to AL (LAL), followed by attaching polyethylene glycol (PEG) and radiolabeling. Functionalization with PEG improves the in vivo stability of LAL, and radioisotope labeling enables in vivo imaging of LAL. Functionalized LAL is stable in physiological conditions, and64Cu labeled LAL (64Cu-LAL) shows a sufficient blood circulation property and an effective tumor targeting ability of 16.4%ID g−1from in vivo positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Also, intravenously injected LAL shows higher tumor targeting, temperature elevation in vivo, and better PTT effect in orthotopic breast cancer mouse model compared to AL. The tumor growth inhibition rate of LAL was 3.9-fold higher than AL.

Conclusion

Based on these high stability, in vivo imaging ability, and tumor targeting efficiency, LAL could be a promising theranostic PTT agent.

Graphic Abstract
Single-cell transcriptome and cell-specific network analysis reveal the reparative effect of neurotrophin-4 in preantral follicles grown in vitro
Authors: Guo Yingchun , Chen Peigen , Li Tingting , Jia Lei , Zhou Yi , Huang Jiana , Liang Xiaoyan , Zhou Chuanchuan , Fang Cong
Published: September 2021

Background

In-vitro-grow (IVG) of preantral follicles is essential for female fertility preservation, while practical approach for improvement is far from being explored. Studies have indicated that neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) is preferentially expressed in human preantral follicles and may be crucial to preantral follicle growth.

Methods

We observed the location and expression of Tropomyosin-related kinase B (TRKB) in human and mouse ovaries with immunofluorescence and Western blot, and the relation between oocyte maturation and NT-4 level in follicular fluid (FF). Mice model was applied to investigate the effect of NT-4 on preantral follicle IVG. Single-cell RNA sequencing of oocyte combined with cell-specific network analysis was conducted to uncover the underlying mechanism of effect.

Results

We reported the dynamic location of TRKB in human and mouse ovaries, and a positive relationship between human oocyte maturation and NT-4 level in FF. Improving effect of NT-4 was observed on mice preantral follicle IVG, including follicle development and oocyte maturation. Transcriptome analysis showed that the reparative effect of NT-4 on oocyte maturation might be mediated by regulation of PI3K-Akt signaling and subsequent organization of F-actin. Suppression of advanced stimulated complement system in granulosa cells might contribute to the improvement. Cell-specific network analysis revealed NT-4 may recover the inflammation damage induced by abnormal lipid metabolism in IVG.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that NT-4 is involved in ovarian physiology and may improve the efficiency of preantral follicle IVG for fertility preservation.
SARS-CoV-2 and regular patient treatment – from the use of rapid antigen testing up to treatment specific precaution measures
Authors: Durner Jürgen , Beikler Thomas , Watts David C. , Becker Marc , Draenert Miriam E.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic poses a continued challenge for all parties involved especially for the dentist as routine operation must be resumed. Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are actually recommended to identify and minimize infectious risks. However, there is still no guideline on the implementation of RATs in a dental or medical setting.

Methods

Based on data and an extensive literature research regarding rapid antigen testing and reflecting the recommendations given by the various professional societies a task force was formed to determine a specific testing and treatment strategy.

Results

A comprehensive test and treatment strategy and risk analysis was developed with practical suggestions for a wide range of typical activities in dental and medical offices.

The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants via aerosols and droplets as well as the difficulties to maintain the minimum distance form special challenges to the dental routine. RATs might in addition to optimal and necessary hygienic standards in combination with the use of adequate personal protection equipment be an important instrument in managing the challenges.

Conclusions

The present work gives recommendations for dental routine operation (dental practices, outpatient clinics) to provide the necessary dental care for the population while protecting the doctor, practice team and patient at the same time.
Obese people benefit from lumbar spinal stenosis surgery as much as people of normal weight
Authors: Myllykangas Henni , Ristolainen Leena , Hurri Heikki , Lohikoski Jouni , Kautiainen Hannu , Puisto Ville , Österman Heikki , Manninen Mikko
Published: September 2021

Background

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a common degenerative condition of the spine that causes back pain radiating to the lower extremity. Surgical treatment is indicated to treat progressive radical symptoms. Obesity has been associated with inferior results in the domains of quality of life (QoL) following an LSS operation, but the research findings have been limited. This paper aims to identify whether obesity affects QoL due to back pain among patients who underwent an operation for LSS.

Methods

This study is based on a series of patients operated on for LSS between 2012 and 2018. Operated patients who returned for follow-up forms within the first or second years were included. A total of 359 patients were selected, 163 males (45%) and 196 females (55%). The mean age was 68.9 years. The EuroQol five-dimension scale (EQ-5D) questionnaire was chosen to measure QoL and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) for functional disability.

Results

QoL, as measured by EQ-5D, was preoperatively lower in those patients with a BMI ≥ 30. One year after the operation, all groups had a similar trend of improved QoL. At the second year, the results in all groups levelled off even though there was no statistical difference in clinical outcomes (p = 0.92).

The ODI was preoperatively statistically higher in patients with a BMI ≥ 30 (p < 0.001). Two years after the surgery, all groups had improved ODI scores, but there was no statistical difference in ODI between the BMI groups (p = 0.54).

Conclusion

Surgical intervention for debilitating or longstanding symptoms of LSS should be considered as a treatment option for suitable patients in spite of an elevated BMI.
Acceptability and feasibility of enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (eCBT) for children and adolescents with obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Babiano-Espinosa Lucía , Wolters Lidewij H. , Weidle Bernhard , Compton Scott N. , Lydersen Stian , Skokauskas Norbert
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disabling mental health disorder affecting 1–3% of children and adolescents. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is recommended as the first-line treatment, but is limited by accessibility, availability, and, in some cases, response to treatment. Enhancement with Internet technologies may mitigate these challenges.

Methods

We developed an enhanced CBT (eCBT) treatment package for children and adolescents with OCD to improve treatment effect as well as user-friendliness. This study aims to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of the eCBT intervention. The eCBT protocol consists of 10 face-to-face and 12 webcam sessions delivered in 14 weeks. CBT is enhanced by a smartphone application (app) for children and parents to support and monitor treatment, psychoeducative videos, and therapist-guided webcam exposure exercises conducted at home. Assessments were performed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Primary measures of outcomes were the the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 (CSQ-8) (acceptability), treatment drop-out (feasibility) and the Children’s Yale-Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS) (preliminary effectiveness).

Results

This paper describes 25 patients with OCD (aged 8–17 years) treated with eCBT. Results indicated that children and parents were satisfied with eCBT, with CSQ-8 mean scores of 27.58 (SD 0.67) and 29.5 (SD 3.74), respectively (range 8–32). No patients dropped out from treatment. We found a mean of 63.8% symptom reduction on the CY-BOCS from baseline to post-treatment. CY-BOCS scores further decreased during 3-month and 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion

In this explorative study, eCBT for pediatric OCD was a feasible, acceptable intervention demonstrating positive treatment outcomes.
Household-level risk factors for Aedes aegypti pupal density in Guayaquil, Ecuador
Authors: Ha Thien-An , León Tomás M. , Lalangui Karina , Ponce Patricio , Marshall John M. , Cevallos Varsovia
Published: September 2021

Background

Vector-borne diseases are a major cause of disease burden in Guayaquil, Ecuador, especially arboviruses spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Understanding which household characteristics and risk factors lead to higher Ae. aegypti densities and consequent disease risk can help inform and optimize vector control programs.

Methods

Cross-sectional entomological surveys were conducted in Guayaquil between 2013 and 2016, covering household demographics, municipal services, potential breeding containers, presence of Ae. aegypti larvae and pupae, and history of using mosquito control methods. A zero-truncated negative binomial regression model was fitted to data for estimating the household pupal index. An additional model assessed the factors of the most productive breeding sites across all of the households.

Results

Of surveyed households, 610 satisfied inclusion criteria. The final household-level model found that collection of large solid items (e.g., furniture and tires) and rainfall the week of and 2 weeks before collection were negatively correlated with average pupae per container, while bed canopy use, unemployment, container water volume, and the interaction between large solid collection and rainfall 2 weeks before the sampling event were positively correlated. Selection of these variables across other top candidate models with ∆AICc < 1 was robust, with the strongest effects from large solid collection and bed canopy use. The final container-level model explaining the characteristics of breeding sites found that contaminated water is positively correlated with Ae. aegypti pupae counts while breeding sites composed of car parts, furniture, sewerage parts, vases, were all negatively correlated.

Conclusions

Having access to municipal services like bulky item pickup was effective at reducing mosquito proliferation in households. Association of bed canopy use with higher mosquito densities is unexpected, and may be a consequence of large local mosquito populations or due to limited use or effectiveness of other vector control methods. The impact of rainfall on mosquito density is multifaceted, as it may both create new habitat and “wash out” existing habitat. Providing services and social/technical interventions focused on monitoring and eliminating productive breeding sites is important for reducing aquatic-stage mosquito densities in households at risk for Ae. aegypti-transmitted diseases.

Graphical Abstract
The genomic architecture of EBV and infected gastric tissue from precursor lesions to carcinoma
Authors: Chen Zhang-Hua , Yan Shu-Mei , Chen Xi-Xi , Zhang Qi , Liu Shang-Xin , Liu Yang , Luo Yi-Ling , Zhang Chao , Xu Miao , Zhao Yi-Fan , Huang Li-Yun , Liu Bin-Liu , Xia Tian-Liang , Xu Da-Zhi , Liang Yao , Chen Yong-Ming , Wang Wei , Yuan Shu-Qiang , Zhang Hui-Zhong , Yun Jing-Ping , Zhai Wei-Wei , Zeng Mu-Sheng , Bai Fan , Zhong Qian
Published: September 2021

Background

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated gastric carcinomas (EBVaGCs) present unique molecular signatures, but the tumorigenesis of EBVaGCs and the role EBV plays during this process remain poorly understood.

Methods

We applied whole-exome sequencing, EBV genome sequencing, and whole-genome bisulfite sequencing to multiple samples (n = 123) derived from the same patients (n = 25), which covered saliva samples and different histological stages from morphologically normal epithelial tissues to dysplasia and EBVaGCs. We compared the genomic landscape between EBVaGCs and their precursor lesions and traced the clonal evolution for each patient. We also analyzed genome sequences of EBV from samples of different histological types. Finally, the key molecular events promoting the tumor evolution were demonstrated by MTT, IC50, and colony formation assay in vitro experiments and in vivo xenograft experiments.

Results

Our analysis revealed increasing mutational burden and EBV load from normal tissues and low-grade dysplasia (LD) to high-grade dysplasia (HD) and EBVaGCs, and oncogenic amplifications occurred late in EBVaGCs. Interestingly, within each patient, EBVaGCs and HDs were monoclonal and harbored single-strain-originated EBV, but saliva or normal tissues/LDs had different EBV strains from that in EBVaGCs. Compared with precursor lesions, tumor cells showed incremental methylation in promotor regions, whereas EBV presented consistent hypermethylation. Dominant alterations targeting the PI3K-Akt and Wnt pathways were found in EBV-infected cells. The combinational inhibition of these two pathways in EBV-positive tumor cells confirmed their synergistic function.

Conclusions

We portrayed the (epi) genomic evolution process of EBVaGCs, revealed the extensive genomic diversity of EBV between tumors and normal tissue sites, and demonstrated the synergistic activation of the PI3K and Wnt pathways in EBVaGCs, offering a new potential treatment strategy for this disease.