bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunohistochemical and Molecular Evaluation of Oncoprotein HER-2 in Women's Breast Cancer in The Republic of Congo
Authors: Boumba Anicet Luc Magloire , Malanda Dimitry Moudiongui Mboungou , Mouamaba Fabien Gaël , Gueyan Exaucé Céleste Abena , Mabouene Fidèle Détila , Moukassa Donatien , Peko Jean Félix
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with a variety of morphological and molecular characteristics impacting treatment response. This study aimed to evaluate by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR the overexpression of HER2 in breast cancer in women in the Republic of Congo. Materials and Methods: We conducted an 8-month cross-sectional descriptive study. 25 paraffin biopsies of breast cancer cases in patients diagnosed at the University Hospital of Brazzaville were collected. Epidemiological, clinical, histological, immunohistochemical and molecular aspects were studied. Results: The mean age of the patients was 49.64 ± 13.20 years (31-80 years). 60% of the patients had a right localization of the tumor. 76% of the patients had an invasive nonspecific type carcinoma. The T4b N1a M0 stage was predominant, representing 56% of the study population. SBR histopronostic grade 1 was represented by 60% of patients. Estrogen and progesterone receptors were positive in the range of 45% and 60%, respectively. The HER2 oncoprotein was positive in 12% (3/25) of 25 cases for IHC. The luminal group was in the majority with 32%. Molecular analysis of the HER2 gene by RT-PCR revealed over expression in 60% (15/25) of cases, 3 of which were already positive for IHC. With the "AmoyDx® HER2 Mutation Detection Kit", 12 mutations were identified, 10 of which involved exon 20, ie 83.33% and 2 mutations with exon 19, ie 16.67% of cases. The correlation of the over expression of the HER2 gene showed a statistically significant difference between the two techniques, p <0.00003. Conclusion: HER2 is known as a prognostic and predictive marker in breast cancer, making this receptor a valuable therapeutic target. However, its highlighting by IHC remains cumbersome and subject to false negatives. Hence molecular analysis could play a crucial role in decision-making when implementing targeted breast cancer therapies in Congo.
Colorectal Cancer Grows and Proliferates Due to Crosstalk Between Intestinal Microbiota and Mucosal Epithelium
Authors: Ohara Tadashi
Published: February 2022

Background/Aim: The details of how intestinal microbiota are involved in the carcinogenesis, growth and proliferation of colorectal cancer have not been elucidated. This study investigated how intestinal microbiota were involved in colorectal carcinogenesis, growth and proliferation. Subjects and Methods: Samples were feces and tumor epithelium of patients with colorectal cancer (n=18), and analyzed using a metagenomic analysis after collected genomic DNA from each sample. Results: According to the functional analysis of common microorganisms in feces and tumor epithelium microflora of patients with colorectal cancer, there were no microorganisms which activate any carcinogenic pathways and cancer-related signals. There were observed microorganisms involved in tumor growth such as expression of transporters essential for amino acids uptake, DNA replication / repair, RNA degradation, transcription factors and microorganisms involved in tumor metabolism. Conclusions: Although the colorectal carcinogenic mechanism was unknown, it has been suggested that colorectal cancer may grow and proliferate due to crosstalk between intestinal microbiota and tumor epithelium.
Resistência de Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli à antibióticos
Authors: Silva Sybelle Georgia Mesquita da , Melo Breno Araújo de , Santos Micheline Thais dos , Ribeiro Júnior Karlos Antônio Lisboa , Maranhão Fernanda Cristina de Albuquerque , Santos Tania Marta Carvalho dos , Fraga Angelina Bossi
Published: February 2022

A mastite é uma das principais enfermidades que acomete o rebanho leiteiro, sendo causada por diversos micro-organismos dos quais se destacam as bactérias Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli. O tratamento para esta enfermidade é realizado, geralmente, por meio do uso de antibióticos via intramamária. No entanto, o uso inadequado desses medicamentos tem contribuído para a seleção de cepas de micro-organismos resistentes, dificultando o tratamento e controle da mastite. Com isso, objetivou-se avaliar cepas das bactérias S. aureus e E. coli frente aos antibióticos: Florfenicol, Enrofloxacina, Gentamicina, Amicacina, Tetraciclina, Norfloxacina, Cefalotina, Cefalexina, Gentamicina, Neomicina, Amoxilina, Ampicilina + Sulbactam, Cefoxitina, Bacitracina, Ampicilina e Penicilina.  As bactérias foram inoculadas em solução salina 0,9% e semeadas em 100 µL de meio Mueller Hinton com os discos de antibióticos. Os testes foram realizados em quadruplicata e as placas incubadas a 37°C durante 24h. Os resultados mostraram que S. aureus foi resistente a penicilina (10µg) e ampicilina (10µg), apresentando maior sensibilidade ao antibiótico florfenicol (30µg). A bactéria E. coli também apresentou maior sensibilidade ao florfenicol (30µg), sendo resistente à bacitracina (10µg). Nossos resultados indicaram que a investigação por novas alternativas para o tratamento da mastite é urgente e necessária.
Avaliação de escore de condição corporal e famacha em ovelhas suffolk a pasto
Authors: Freitas Thaís Campos de , Costa Ana Lúcia Barreto da , Sbardelotto Edriane Mara , Debortoli Elísio de Camargo , Hashimoto Juliano Hideo , Sada Jamile Cristina Deola , Gradin Joilson
Published: February 2022

Na ovinocultura, uma das maiores perdas econômicas é a verminose, desta forma, o manejo integrado pode promover um bom desempenho na produção e consequentemente gerar menos perdas. Este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o perfil sanitário, por meio da associação entre a aplicação do método FAMACHA e a avaliação do Escore de Condição Corporal (ECC), de ovinos da raça Suffolk no IFRS – Campus Sertão. A amostra foi composta por 27 animais adultos totalizando 725 avaliações  no ano de 2019. Foi observado que o método FAMACHA proporcionou redução nos gastos com vermífugos em 46,3% quando comparado ao manejo tradicional com duas vermifugações em todo o rebanho no período de análise. Como é um tratamento seletivo, associando as informações do ECC com o grau FAMACHA, apenas 3,72% dos animais foram vermifugados enquanto que os outros 96,28% possuíam carga parasitária baixa ou conseguiram suportar a carga parasitária sem apresentar sinais clínicos. Também foi possível classificar o rebanho em animais resistentes, resilientes e suscetíveis para a verminose. Tais resultados demonstram a importância do controle zootécnico e acompanhamento contínuo do rebanho, buscando proporcionar melhor desempenho produtivo e sanitário e consequentemente evitando o uso indiscriminado de antiparasitários e aprimorando a seleção de animais.
Concerns for First-Gen Political Science Graduate Students
Authors: Benson Thomas , Montoya T. Mark
Published: February 2022

This chapter focuses on identifying the challenges faced by first-generation (first-gen) political science graduate students. We stress that while not all first-gen experiences are identical, we can highlight solutions for first-gen political science graduate students by calling to mind assets-based approaches that deviate from the existing focus on deficiencies. This manuscript is part of Strategies for Navigating Graduate School and Beyond, a forthcoming volume for those interested in pursuing graduate education in political science (Fall 2022 publication).
Prediction of Clinical Outcome in Endometrial Carcinoma Based on a 3-lncRNA Signature
Authors: Ding Hongmei , Jiang Fei , Deng Lifeng , Wang Juan , Wang Ping , Ji Mintao , Li Jie , Shi Weiqiang , Pei Yufang , Li Jiafu , Zhang Yue , Zhang Zengli , Chen Youguo , Li Bingyan
Published: February 2022

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is one of the common gynecological cancers with increasing incidence and revived mortality recently. Given the heterogeneity of tumors and the complexity of lncRNAs, a panel of lncRNA biomarkers might be more precise and stable for prognosis. In the present study, we developed a new lncRNA model to predict the prognosis of patients with EC. EC-associated differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were identified from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Univariate COX regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) model were selected to find the 8-independent prognostic lncRNAs of EC patient. Furthermore, the risk score of the 3-lncRNA signature for overall survival (OS) was identified as CTD-2377D24.6 expression × 0.206 + RP4-616B8.5 × 0.341 + RP11-389G6.3 × 0.343 by multivariate Cox regression analysis. According to the median cutoff value of this prognostic signature, the EC samples were divided into two groups, high-risk set (3-lncRNAs at high levels) and low-risk set (3-lncRNAs at low levels), and the Kaplan–Meier survival curves demonstrated that the low-risk set had a higher survival rate than the high-risk set. In addition, the 3-lncRNA signature was closely linked with histological subtype (p = 0.0001), advanced clinical stage (p = 0.011), and clinical grade (p < 0.0001) in EC patients. Our clinical samples also confirmed that RP4-616B8.5, RP11-389G6.3, and CTD-2377D24.6 levels were increased in tumor tissues by qRT-PCR and in situ hybridization. Intriguingly, the p-value of combined 3-lncRNAs was lower than that of each lncRNA, indicating that the 3-lncRNA signature also showed higher performance in EC tissue than paracancerous. Functional analysis revealed that cortactin might be involved in the mechanism of 3-lncRNA signatures. These findings provide the first hint that a panel of lncRNAs may play a critical role in the initiation and metastasis of EC, indicating a new signature for early diagnosis and therapeutic strategy of uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress: An Emerging Therapeutic Target for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Wang Dong , He Xin , Zheng Chao , Wang Chengzhe , Peng Pandi , Gao Chu , Xu Xiaolong , Ma Yachao , Liu Mei , Yang Liu , Luo Zhuojing
Published: February 2022

Low back pain (LBP) is a global health issue. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a major cause of LBP. Although the explicit mechanisms underpinning IDD are unclear, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress caused by aberrant unfolded or misfolded proteins may be involved. The accumulation of unfolded/misfolded proteins may result in reduced protein synthesis and promote aberrant protein degradation to recover ER function, a response termed the unfolded protein response. A growing body of literature has demonstrated the potential relationships between ER stress and the pathogenesis of IDD, indicating some promising therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the impact of ER stress on the process of IDD, as well as some potential therapeutic strategies for alleviating disc degeneration by targeting different pathways to inhibit ER stress. This review will facilitate understanding the pathogenesis and progress of IDD and highlights potential therapeutic targets for treating this condition.
Susceptibility Modules and Genes in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy by WGCNA and ceRNA Network Analysis
Authors: Sun Yifan , Xiao Zhongbo , Chen Yequn , Xu Duanmin , Chen Shuying
Published: February 2022

Background: We attempted to identify a regulatory competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network and a hub gene of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Methods: Microarray datasets of HCM tissue were obtained from NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The R package “limma” was used to identify differentially expressed genes. Online search databases were utilized to match the relation among differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs) and mRNAs. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify the correlations between key modules and HCM. STRING database was applied to construct PPI networks. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was used to perform functional annotations and verified the hub genes.

Results: A total of 269 DE-lncRNAs, 63 DE-miRNAs and 879 DE-mRNAs were identified in myocardial tissues from microarray datasets GSE130036, GSE36946 and GSE36961, respectively. According to online databases, we found 1 upregulated miRNA hsa-miR-184 that was targeted by 2 downregulated lncRNAs (SNHG9, AC010980.2), potentially targeted 2 downregulated mRNAs (LRRC8A, SLC7A5). 3 downregulated miRNAs (hsa-miR-17-5p, hsa-miR-876-3p, hsa-miR-139-5p) that were targeted by 9 upregulated lncRNAs, potentially targeted 21 upregulated mRNAs. Black and blue modules significantly related to HCM were identified by WGCNA. Hub gene IGFBP5 regulated by hsa-miR-17-5p, AC007389.5, AC104667.1, and AC002511.2 was identified. GSEA indicated that IGFBP5 might involve in the synthesis of myosin complex, participate in kinesin binding, motor activity and function via the regulation of actin cytoskeleton.

Conclusion: The results provide a potential molecular regulatory mechanism for the diagnosis and treatment of HCM. IGFBP5 might play an important role in the progression of HCM.
Effect of Graphite Oxide on the Catalytic Behavior of (S)-Selective Amine Transaminases
Authors: Kaloudis Nikolaos , Zygouri Panagiota , Chalmpes Nikolaos , Spyrou Konstantinos , Gournis Dimitrios , Pavlidis Ioannis V.
Published: February 2022

Graphite oxide (GO) has been used for the immobilization of several classes of enzymes, exhibiting very interesting properties as an immobilization matrix. However, the effect the nanomaterial has on the enzyme cannot be predicted. Herein, the effect GO has on the catalytic behavior of several (S)-selective amine transaminases [(S)-ATAs] has been investigated. These enzymes were the focus of this work as they are homodimers with pyridoxal 5′-phosphate in their active site, significantly more complex systems than other enzymes previously studied. Addition of GO (up to 0.1 mg/ml) in the reaction medium leads to activation (up to 50% improved activity) for most enzymes studied, while they maintain their temperature profile (they perform better between 40 and 45°C) and their stability. However, the effect is not universal and there are enzymes that are negatively influenced by the presence of the nanomaterial. More profound is the effect on the (S)-ATA from Chromobacterium violaceum which loses almost 50% of its activity in the presence of 0.1 mg/ml GO, while the stability was significantly decreased, losing its activity after 2 h incubation at 40°C, in the presence of 25 μg/ml GO. This negative effect seems to rise from minor secondary structure alterations; namely, a loss of α-helices and subsequent increase in random coil (∼3% in the presence of 25 μg/ml GO). We hypothesize that the effect the GO has on (S)-ATAs is correlated to the surface chemistry of the enzymes; the less negatively-charged enzymes are deactivated from the interaction with GO. This insight will aid the rationalization of ATA immobilization onto carbon-based nanomaterials.
Using Leaf Ecological Stoichiometry to Direct the Management of Ligularia virgaurea on the Northeast Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Su Haohai , Cui Jiabao , Adamowski Jan F. , Zhang Xiaofang , Biswas Asim , Cao Jianjun
Published: February 2022

Leaf ecological stoichiometry not only reflects the plasticity and adaptability, but also the growth of plants within environments where temperature, precipitation, and soil properties vary across an elevation gradient. Ligularia virgaurea (Maxim.) Mattf. ex Rehder & Kobuski — an invasive poisonous plant — is common in the northeast portion of China’s Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and its presence greatly affects the native ecosystem. Based on L. virgaurea leaf carbon ([C]leaf), nitrogen ([N]leaf) and phosphorus ([P]leaf) concentrations, and their ratios, the species’ coping strategies across an elevation gradient (2,600 m, 3,000 m, and 3,300 m) were identified, and served to inform the development of improved management strategies. Mean [C]leaf, [N]leaf and [P]leaf in L. virgaurea across all elevations were 413.14 g·kg−1, 22.76 g·kg−1, and 1.34 g·kg−1, respectively, while [C]leaf: [N]leaf, [C]leaf: [P]leaf, and [N]leaf: [P]leaf were 18.27, 328.76, and 17.93. With an increase in precipitation and decrease in temperature from 2,600 m to 3,000 m–3,300 m, [C]leaf, [C]leaf: [N]leaf and [C]leaf: [P]leaf of L. virgaurea decreased at first and then increased. The [N]leaf and [P]leaf gradually increased, whereas [N]leaf: [P]leaf showed little change. Although temperature, precipitation and soil water content were the main factors affecting the ecological stoichiometry of L. virgaurea leaves, their roles in influencing leaf elements were different. The [C]leaf was mainly influenced by soil water content, [N]leaf by temperature and soil water content, and [P]leaf by all of them. With potential future climate change in the study area, L. virgaurea may grow faster than at present, although soil P may still be a growth-limiting element. As L. virgaurea can reduce plant diversity and the quality of forage, while increasing biomass, management of L. virgaurea should receive greater attention.
Geographic and Temporal Variation in Annual Survival of a Declining Neotropical Migrant Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) Under Varying Fire, Snowpack, and Climatic Conditions
Authors: Drake Anna , Bishop Christine A. , Moran Alison J. , Wilson Scott
Published: February 2022

Rufous hummingbirds (Selasphorus rufus) have shown consistent declines in abundance since 1970, with an acceleration in this trend starting in the mid-2000s. Demographic data is needed to isolate possible drivers. We employ mark-recapture data to calculate sex-specific adult apparent annual survival, accounting for residency probability, within the coastal and interior regions of British Columbia, Canada between 1998 and 2017. For the coastal region, we also examine associations between apparent survival and a suite of migratory factors: the amount of recently and historically burned flyway habitat, fall moisture availability in the alpine (snowpack), and a broad-scale climate index (SOI), under the assumption that these factors are associated with food availability during a critical period of the annual cycle. We find no trend in adult apparent survival over the 20-year period, implicating changes in recruitment rather than adult survival as driving the declining trend in abundance. Interior birds of both sexes showed lower residency probability than coastal individuals suggesting interior sites captured more late northbound individuals or more early southbound individuals within the breeding period. Adult apparent annual survival was not correlated with any of the migratory variables we examined. Our findings suggest a need to focus on juvenile recruitment as a possible driver of the long-term declines in Rufous Hummingbirds. Future studies should consider both potential threats to productivity on the breeding grounds and to juvenile survival on the non-breeding grounds.
Machine Learning of Single Cell Transcriptomic Data From anti-PD-1 Responders and Non-responders Reveals Distinct Resistance Mechanisms in Skin Cancers and PDAC
Authors: Liu Ryan , Dollinger Emmanuel , Nie Qing
Published: February 2022

Immune checkpoint therapies such as PD-1 blockade have vastly improved the treatment of numerous cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC). However, patients afflicted with pancreatic ductal carcinoma (PDAC), one of the deadliest malignancies, overwhelmingly exhibit negative responses to checkpoint therapy. We sought to combine data analysis and machine learning to differentiate the putative mechanisms of BCC and PDAC non-response. We discover that increased MHC-I expression in malignant cells and suppression of MHC and PD-1/PD-L expression in CD8+ T cells is associated with nonresponse to treatment. Furthermore, we leverage machine learning to predict response to PD-1 blockade on a cellular level. We confirm divergent resistance mechanisms between BCC, PDAC, and melanoma and highlight the potential for rapid and affordable testing of gene expression in BCC patients to accurately predict response to checkpoint therapies. Our findings present an optimistic outlook for the use of quantitative cross-cancer analyses in characterizing immune responses and predicting immunotherapy outcomes.
Temperature-Dependent Reproductive Success of Stickleback Lateral Plate Morphs: Implications for Population Polymorphism and Range Shifts Under Ocean Warming
Authors: Wanzenböck Sylvia , Fuxjäger Lukas , Ringler Eva , Ahnelt Harald , Shama Lisa N. S.
Published: February 2022

Changing environments associated with rapid climate change can shape direct measures of fitness such as reproductive success by altering mating behavior, fecundity and offspring development. Using a polymorphic oceanic population of threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus), we investigated whether a 4°C increase in sea surface temperature influenced clutch siring success, reproductive output, and offspring growth among lateral plate morphs. Since low plated morphs are thought to have a selective advantage in warmer environments, we predicted that low plated males should have higher clutch siring success in +4°C environments, and that thermal plasticity of traits (e.g., egg size, offspring growth) should reflect different trait optima in different environments among plate morphs. Parentage analysis of egg clutches revealed temperature-specific clutch siring success, in that low plated males sired more clutches in +4°C environments and completely plated males sired more clutches at ambient (seasonal) temperature. Both completely and low plated females laid larger eggs when acclimated to +4°C, but only completely plated females had smaller clutches at +4°C. Offspring of low and partially plated females grew much less at +4°C compared to those of completely plated females. Taken together, our results demonstrate that ocean warming could impact reproductive success at various levels, with differential effects depending on phenotype, in this case, lateral plate morph. Some traits (clutch siring success, egg size) showed better performance for low plated fish at +4°C, whereas others (e.g., growth) did not. Higher clutch siring success of low plated males at elevated temperature might indicate a future shift in plate morph composition for polymorphic stickleback populations, with potential implications for colonization ability during range shifts under climate change.
Progress in Synthesis and Photocatalytic Activity of MAl2O4(M=Mg, Sr, Ba) Based Photocatalysts
Authors: Han Xiulin , Sun Meijuan , Chai Xiaona , Li Jun , Wu Yanning , Sun Wu
Published: February 2022

Photocatalysis is regarded as a green technology to degrade organic dyes driven by light energy. The selection of photocatalyst restricts the development of photocatalytic technology. Aluminate is a kind of potential broad-gap semiconductor photocatalyst and also an excellent phosphor substrate materials. The physical and chemical properties of aluminate are strongly dependent on the preparation method. Insight into the influence of synthesis methods on photocatalytic activity of aluminate based photocatalysts is helpful for the development of novel aluminate based photocatalysts. In this paper, the typical synthesis methods of aluminate photocatalysts, ion-doped aluminate based photocatalysts and heterojunction type aluminate photocatalysts, and their photocatalytic activities are reviewed. Based on the energy band theory, the photocatalytic mechanisms of single component aluminate photocatalyst, ion-doped aluminate based photocatalyst, and heterojunction type aluminate photocatalyst were reviewed. The future development of aluminate based photocatalyst will give priority to the salinization of aluminate modified by silver and other metal particles and the photocatalytic application of activated ion modified aluminate based phosphors.
The Burden of Progressive-Fibrosing Interstitial Lung Diseases
Authors: Cottin Vincent , Teague Rhiannon , Nicholson Lindsay , Langham Sue , Baldwin Mike
Published: February 2022

Despite conventional treatment, a proportion of interstitial lung disease (ILD) patients develop a progressive phenotype known as “fibrosing ILD with a progressive phenotype” (PF-ILD), characterized by worsening respiratory symptoms, decline in lung function, and early mortality. This review describes the epidemiology, and the humanistic and economic burden of PF-ILDs other than idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (non-IPF PF-ILD). A structured review of the literature was conducted, using predefined search strategies in Ovid MEDLINE and EMBASE, and supplemented with gray literature searches. The search identified 3,002 unique articles and an additional 3 sources were included from the gray literature; 21 publications were included. The estimated prevalence of non-IPF PF-ILD ranges from 6.9 to 70.3/100,000 persons and the estimated incidence from 2.1 to 32.6/100,000 person-years. Limited evidence demonstrates that PF-ILD has a significant impact on patients' quality of life, affecting their daily lives, psychological well-being, careers, and relationships. PF-ILD is also associated with significant economic burden, demonstrating higher healthcare resource use and direct costs compared with the non-progressive phenotype, and indirect costs, which include job losses. This review indicates that PF-ILD places a considerable humanistic burden on both patients and caregivers, and a substantial economic burden on healthcare systems, patients, and society.
Regional Differences of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in China: From South to North
Authors: Yao Jiajia , Liu Yin , Liu Shuping , Lu Zuneng
Published: February 2022

Background

The epidemiological features of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) were different in different areas; a comparison of the disease was needed to identify the variation and prognosis. We compare the epidemiological features of GBS in different areas in China.

Method

A total of 1,191 patients were included. Information was collected in patients diagnosed with GBS and its variants in middle and south China, and then retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into four different regions: East China (n = 441), Center China (n = 566), South China (n = 77), and Southwest China (n = 107). These subregions are mainly divided by climate and geographical location. These data were compared with data from a study in East China (Shandong, n = 150) and Northeast China (Changchun, n = 750).

Results

Patients from the south and southwest China were younger than other regions (P = 0.000). A summer peak and an autumn peak were found in northern China, but more patients in winter and spring days in other areas (P = 0.000). Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) was the preceding event of GBS patients in all regions but rarer in central China (P = 0.001). The proportion of axonal subtype was higher in central and southwest China than in other regions (P = 0.001). Patients in southwest China were more served at nadir and have the longest hospital stay (P = 0.003 and P = 0.000).

Conclusion

The difference between seasonal variation and preceding events was found in different regions in China; clinical features differ among regions in China.
Predicting Dishonesty When the Stakes Are High: Physiologic Responses During Face-to-Face Interactions Identifies Who Reneges on Promises to Cooperate
Authors: Zak Paul J. , Barraza Jorge A. , Hu Xinbo , Zahedzadeh Giti , Murray John
Published: February 2022

Trust is risky. The mere perception of strategically deceptive behavior that disguises intent or conveys unreliable information can inhibit cooperation. As gregariously social creatures, human beings would have evolved physiologic mechanisms to identify likely defectors in cooperative tasks, though these mechanisms may not cross into conscious awareness. We examined trust and trustworthiness in an ecological valid manner by (i) studying working-age adults, (ii) who make decisions with meaningful stakes, and (iii) permitting participants to discuss their intentions face-to-face prior to making private decisions. In order to identify why people fulfill or renege on their commitments, we measured neurophysiologic responses in blood and with electrodermal activity while participants interacted. Participants (mean age 32) made decisions in a trust game in which they could earn up to $530. Nearly all interactions produced promises to cooperate, although first decision-makers in the trust game reneged on 30.7% of their promises while second decision-makers reneged on 28%. First decision-makers who reneged on a promise had elevated physiologic stress using two measures (the change in adrenocorticotropin hormone and the change in skin conductance levels) during pre-decision communication compared to those who fulfilled their promises and had increased negative affect after their decisions. Neurophysiologic reactivity predicted who would cooperate or defect with 86% accuracy. While self-serving behavior is not rare, those who exhibit it are stressed and unhappy.
Myoclonic Epilepsy: Case Report of a Mild Phenotype in a Pediatric Patient Expanding Clinical Spectrum of KCNA2 Pathogenic Variants
Authors: Perilli Lorenzo , Mastromoro Gioia , Murciano Manuel , Amedeo Ilaria , Avenoso Federica , Pizzuti Antonio , Guido Cristiana Alessia , Spalice Alberto
Published: February 2022

We report on the rare case of a male toddler presenting with myoclonic epilepsy characterized by daily episodes of upward movements of the eyebrows, and myoclonic jerks of both head and upper limbs. In addition, the child showed speech delay, tremors, and lack of motor coordination. Next Generation Sequencing analysis (NGS) performed in trio revealed in the proband the c.889C>T de novo missense variant in the KCNA2 gene in heterozygous state. This is the first case of myoclonic epilepsy in a toddler due to a c.889C>T KCNA2 missense variant. The patient was treated with valproic acid and ethosuximide with a good clinical response. At 6 years old, follow-up revealed that the proband was seizure-free with tremors and clumsiness in movements. According to the literature, this case supports the correlation between myoclonic epilepsy and KCNA2 alterations. This evidence suggests that performing genomic testing including the KCNA2 gene in preschool patients affected by myoclonic epilepsy, especially when associated with delayed neurodevelopment. Our goal is to expand the phenotypical spectrum of this rare condition and adding clinical features following a genotype-first approach.
Preparation, Structural Features and in vitro Immunostimulatory Activity of a Glucomannan From Fresh Dendrobium catenatum Stems
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Yu Luyao , Wang Chun , Zhang Yuefan , Xi Hangxian , Si Jinping , Zhang Lei , Yan Jingkun
Published: February 2022

Dendrobium catenatum polysaccharides (DCPs) have attracted attention due to their multiple physiological activities and health benefits. In this study, a novel water-soluble DCP was obtained from fresh D. catenatum stems through three-phase partitioning and ethanol precipitation at room temperature. Its structural characteristics, rheological property, and in vitro immunostimulatory activity were evaluated. Results demonstrated that DCP was a homogenous polysaccharide with a carbohydrate content of 92.75% and a weight-average molecular weight of 2.21 × 105 Da. This polysaccharide is an O-acetylated glucomannan comprised by glucose, mannose, and galacturonic acid in a molar ratio of 30.2:69.5:0.3 and mainly comprises (1→4)-β-D-mannopyranosyl (Manp), 2-O-acetyl-(1→4)-β-D-Manp, (1→6)-α-D-glucopyranosyl (Glcp), and (1→4)-α-D-Glcp residues. DCP exhibits an extended rigid chain in an aqueous solution and favorable steady shear fluid and dynamic viscoelastic behaviors. In vitro immunostimulating assays indicated that DCP activates RAW264.7 cells, thus markedly promoting macrophage proliferation and phagocytosis and increasing the levels of nitric oxide, interferon-γ, interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β. Moreover, the presence of O-acetyl group and high Mw in DCP might be responsible for its potent immunostimulatory activity in vitro. Therefore, our data suggested that DCP could be developed as a promising immunostimulant in functional food and pharmaceutical industries.
Prognosis Analysis and Clinical Features of Orbital Cavernous Venous Malformations With Refractory Insidious Onset
Authors: Yang Peng , Li Yong , Liu Hao-Cheng , Qiu E. , Zhang Jia-Liang , Ren Jian , Jiang Li-Bin , Liu Hong-Gang , Kang Jun
Published: February 2022

Objective

The present study aims to analyse the clinical presentation, treatment and prognosis of a group of patients with orbital cavernous venous malformation (OCVM) with an insidious onset.

Method

The clinical data of 35 patients with OCVM treated at our centre between 2003 and 2020 were retrospectively analysed. The OCVMs were classified as one of six types (I–VI) according to the orbital position of the tumour. The clinical characteristics, treatment methods and follow-up results were recorded.

Results

A total of 35 patients with OCVM under the optic nerve sheath in the orbital apex area or the common tendon ring (Types I and II) were included in the present study. In 20 cases (57.1%), patients were misdiagnosed with optic neuritis, and in 20 cases (57.1%), the tumour was not identified based on imaging. The presentation was acute or subacute in 23 cases (65.7%). All patients underwent surgery: transnasal surgery in 22 cases (62.9%) and craniotomy in 13 cases (37.1%). A total of 9 patients (25.7%) experienced postoperative complications, and 17 patients (48.6%) experienced vision improvement. The average patient age at first diagnosis was 43.3 ± 10.3 years, and the median follow-up period was 64.5 months. Overall, 14 patients (40%) experienced postoperative complications: postoperative blindness in 6 cases, postoperative vision loss in 8 cases and orbital apex syndrome in 7 cases.

Conclusion

Patients with Type I and Type II OCVMs are the most complex cases. They have an insidious onset and are associated with a high rate of misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis. Acute and subacute decreases in visual acuity are mainly caused by OCVM haemorrhage. The difficulty of surgical treatment and the poor prognosis of postoperative vision are characteristics of this tumour. Transnasal surgery and craniotomy can be used to remove OCVMs located in the common tendon ring or optic canal as well as those involving the intracranial area through the supraorbital fissure. Meanwhile, the orbital approach (orbitotomy) has proven to be an effective method of treating OCVMs not involving the deep orbital apex and intracranial area.
Management of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma in Elderly Patients
Authors: Chan Wing Lok , Chow James Chung Hang , Xu Zhi-yuan , Li Jishi , Kwong Wing Tung Gobby , Ng Wai Tong , Lee Anne W. M.
Published: February 2022

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is one of the most difficult cancers in the head and neck region due to the complex geometry of the tumour and the surrounding critical organs. High-dose radical radiotherapy with or without concurrent platinum-based chemotherapy is the primary treatment modality. Around 10%–15% of NPC patients have their diagnosis at age after 70. The management of NPC in elderly patients is particularly challenging as they encompass a broad range of patient phenotypes and are often prone to treatment-related toxicities. Chronologic age alone is insufficient to decide on the management plan. Comprehensive geriatric assessment with evaluation on patients’ functional status, mental condition, estimated life expectancy, comorbidities, risks and benefits of the treatment, patients’ preference, and family support is essential. In addition, little data from randomized controlled trials are available to guide treatment decisions in elderly patients with NPC. In deciding which treatment strategy would be suitable for an individual elderly patient, we reviewed the literature and reviewed the analysis of primary studies, reviews, and guidelines on management of NPC. This review also summarises the current evidence for NPC management in elderly adults from early to late stage of disease.
Aberrant Expression of ADARB1 Facilitates Temozolomide Chemoresistance and Immune Infiltration in Glioblastoma
Authors: Lu Can , Chen Xi , Yan Yuanliang , Ren Xinxin , Wang Xiang , Peng Bi , Cai Yuan , Liang Qiuju , Xu Zhijie , Peng Jinwu
Published: February 2022

Chemoresistance, especially temozolomide (TMZ) resistance, is a major clinical challenge in the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). Exploring the mechanisms of TMZ resistance could help us identify effective therapies. Adenosine deaminases acting on RNA (ADARs) are very important in RNA modification through regulating the A-to-I RNA editing. Recent studies have shown that ADARs regulate multiple neurotransmitter receptors, which have been linked with the occurrence and progress of GBM. Here, data from several bioinformatics databases demonstrated that adenosine deaminase RNA specific B1 (ADARB1), also named ADAR2, was upregulated in both GBM tissues and cells, and had the prognostic value in GBM patients. Moreover, ADARB1 was found to be involved in AKT-mediated TMZ resistance in GBM cells. The KEGG analysis of ADARB1-associated co-expressed genes showed that ADARB1 was potentially involved in the mitochondrial respiratory chain complex. TISIDB and GEPIA databases were further used to analyze the role of ADARB1 in tumor-immune system interactions in GBM. These findings deepened our understanding of the function of ADARB1 in tumorigenesis and therapeutic response in GBM.
Transposable Elements: Distribution, Polymorphism, and Climate Adaptation in Populus
Authors: Zhao Yiyang , Li Xian , Xie Jianbo , Xu Weijie , Chen Sisi , Zhang Xiang , Liu Sijia , Wu Jiadong , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Zhang Deqiang
Published: February 2022

Transposable elements (TEs) are a class of mobile genetic elements that make effects on shaping rapid phenotypic traits of adaptive significance. TE insertions are usually related to transcription changes of nearby genes, and thus may be subjected to purifying selection. Based on the available genome resources of Populus, we found that the composition of Helitron DNA family were highly variable and could directly influence the transcription of nearby gene expression, which are involving in stress-responsive, programmed cell death, and apoptosis pathway. Next, we indicated TEs are highly enriched in Populus trichocarpa compared with three other congeneric poplar species, especially located at untranslated regions (3′UTRs and 5′UTRs) and Helitron transposons, particularly 24-nt siRNA-targeted, are significantly associated with reduced gene expression. Additionally, we scanned a representative resequenced Populus tomentosa population, and identified 9,680 polymorphic TEs loci. More importantly, we identified a Helitron transposon located at the 3′UTR, which could reduce WRKY18 expression level. Our results highlight the importance of TE insertion events, which could regulate gene expression and drive adaptive phenotypic variation in Populus.
The Association Between Pregnancy-Related Factors and Health Status Before and After Childbirth With Satisfaction With Skilled Delivery in Multiple Dimensions Among Postpartum Mothers in the Akatsi South District, Ghana
Authors: Tuglo Lawrence Sena , Agbadja Comfort , Bruku Cynthia Sekyere , Kumordzi Vivian , Tuglo Jessica Dzigbordi , Asaaba Leticia Atiah , Agyei Mercy , Boakye Cynthia , Sakre Sylvia Mawusinu , Lu Qingyun
Published: February 2022

Background

Skilled delivery has been a pronounced concern and has been investigated over the years in developing countries. An inclusive understanding of the satisfaction of postpartum mothers is vital in improving the quality of skilled delivery, which is beneath the standard in some parts of developing countries. This study assessed the association between pregnancy-related factors and health status before and after childbirth with satisfaction with skilled delivery in multiple dimensions among postpartum mothers in the Akatsi South District, Ghana.

Methods

A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 538 postpartum mothers who participated through the systematic sampling method. Data collection was performed through a pretested and structured questionnaire developed from the WHO responsiveness concept and other prior studies. Questions on satisfaction were categorized into six dimensions. The associations were determined using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Results

The overall satisfaction of postpartum mothers with skilled delivery was 80.7%. The highest (89.6%) and the lowest (12.8%) satisfaction with skilled delivery were found in technical quality and financial dimensions. Analysis revealed that autonomously age and delivery procedure were significantly associated with the dimensions of communication and responsiveness. Postpartum mothers who delivered at private healthcare facilities [crude odds ratio (COR) = 1.70; (95% CI 1.00–2.90); p = 0.049] had preterm pregnancy before delivery [COR = 2.08; (95% CI 1.02–4.21); p = 0.043], had cesarean section [COR = 2.73; (95% CI 1.05–7.12); p = 0.040], and presented with complications after childbirth [COR = 2.63; (95% CI 1.09–6.35); p = 0.032] were more likely to be satisfied in the dimension of communication only compared to their counterparts. Regarding responsiveness, multiparous mothers [COR = 1.63; (95% CI 1.06–2.51); p = 0.007] were more likely to be satisfied than primiparous mothers. Overall satisfaction was significantly and positively correlated with the various dimensions of skilled delivery.

Conclusions

The majority were satisfied with five dimensions of satisfaction with skilled delivery except for the financial dimension. The District Health Directorate of Akatsi South should take into consideration these findings in their policy development for forward-looking skilled delivery.
Short-Term Impacts of COVID-19 Public Health Regulation on Consumer Food Purchases: A Case Study From a Grocery Store in Montana
Authors: Ebel Roland , Byker-Shanks Carmen
Published: February 2022

The mitigation measures (e.g., lockdown policies) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic impacted food systems in unprecedented ways, in both scope and immediacy. Food retail, for example, changed fundamentally in the United States, as access to nutritious food became limited, supply chain shortages were common, and mandatory public health measures led to behavior changes among customers and employees. In the present case study, we hypothesized that these changes led to food purchasing shifts of grocery store consumers. Such shifts are seen as an outcome of both endogenous factors at the individual level and exogenous factors at the government/policy level. Our case study sought to better understand how the pandemic and associated regulations shaped consumer food choices during the “hard” lockdown period in Montana during 2020. We selected 112 food products based on the highest sales in a Gallatin County, Montana, grocery store. They were analyzed by predefined food groups aligned to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020. All purchases were processed for each selected food item during March and April 2019 (before the pandemic) and March and April 2020 (during the lockdown in Montana). To further describe the pandemic experiences qualitatively, we conducted semi-structured interviews with managers and employees from two stores in Gallatin County. Overall, we found that consumers increased purchases in most food groups during the pandemic, including nutrient-dense and energy-dense products, most outstandingly for starchy vegetables, legumes, and convenience food. Products with long shelf-life and that required preparation at home were preferred. Endogenous causes, specifically panic and rushing, were likely stronger drivers of consumer behavior and food choices than regulations. Nonetheless, lockdown policies impacted consumer food purchases. We present a series of policy and practice recommendations based on our findings and the emerging literature on this topic.
Investigation on a Flow Coupling Rudder for Directional Control of a Low-Aspect Tailless Configuration with Diamond-Shaped Wing
Authors: Liu Zhongyuan , Zhang Binqian
Published: February 2022

To solve the issues of directional control and aerodynamic moment coupling for a low-aspect tailless configuration with a diamond-shaped wing, we herein propose the concept of a flow coupling rudder (FCR). The FCR was composed of two basic control surfaces: a spoiler slot deflector (SSD) on the upper surface of the wing and the corresponding elevon. With the constraints of the fixed area and spanwise position of the SSD, the effects of the leading-edge sweep angle, chord position of the SSD, and collocating deflection angles of the SSD and elevon on the control characteristics of the configuration were analyzed using a numerical method. Based on the analysis, the selection principle of the key parameters for designing the FCR for the configuration was proposed. This proves that the leading edge of the selected SSD should be swept back instead of being parallel to the trailing edge of the wing to design an FCR with favorable aerodynamic performance for such a configuration. By accurately adjusting the parameters of the SSD and elevon, the FCR on the one-side wing could supply an effective yawing moment while simultaneously weakening or even eliminating the coupling pitching and rolling moments of traditional drag-type control surfaces. In this study, we provide a method for the directional control surface design of a low-aspect tailless configuration with a diamond-shaped wing.
A Review of the Category, Mechanism, and Controlling Methods of Chemical Clogging in Drip Irrigation System
Authors: Shi Kaili , Lu Tiangang , Zheng Wengang , Zhang Xin , Zhangzhong Lili
Published: February 2022

Drip irrigation is an important way to alleviate the global water shortage. However, the emitter-clogging issue of drip irrigation directly affects irrigation uniformity and operation efficiency, even disabling the whole system and reducing crop production. Currently, with the widespread use of saline water and large-scale utilization of fertigation, the issue with the chemical clogging of emitters has become more prominent. The poor uniformity of irrigation and fertilization distribution caused by emitter clogging results in salt damage and fertilizer loss due to the complex clogging mechanism. However, no extensive information on chemical clogging is available. Herein, we surveyed the latest research on chemical clogging caused by saline water irrigation and fertigation in drip irrigation systems and described the clogging mechanisms of the emitter by analyzing the key factors, clogging rules, and substances. We also present a framework of the control technologies for clogging based on physical, chemical, and biological methods. Finally, we present the current challenges of fertigation with saline water and technical trends of emitter clogging in the drip irrigation system. To conclude, the efficient integration of these three methods is critical to prevent and eliminate chemical clogging.