bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning radiomics for predicting recurrence risk in patients with early-stage invasive breast cancer
Authors: Yao Herui , Yu Yunfang , Ren Wei , He Zifan , Chen Yongjian , Tan Yujie , Liu Jingwen , Li Anlin , Lu Nian , Ouyang Jie , Yang Yaping , Chen Kai , Li Chenchen , Ma Mudi , Li Xiaohong , Zhang Rong , Wu Zhuo , Su Fengxi Su , Hu Qiugen , Xie Chuan-Miao , Song Erwei
Published: October 2020

There are no satisfying approaches to identify high- and low-risk recurrence patients with early-stage breast cancer in current clinical practice. Patients might be overtreated or undertreated due to the inaccurate prediction of recurrence risk. Herein, machine learning magnetic resonance imaging radiomic-based signature that integrates the intratumoral and peritumoral radiomic signatures, and clinicopathological characteristics was developed to classify high- and low-risk recurrence patients and predict recurrence within multicentre cohorts. The radiomic-clinical signature could also discriminate high- from low-risk recurrence patients among different breast cancer molecular subtype, and HR+/Her2-, T1N0M0 stage patients. Furthermore, it was observed that the neoadjuvant chemotherapy improved survival in high-risk Luminal subtype patients compared with the adjuvant chemotherapy. The survival-associated radiomic features also showed the correlation with the immune microenvironment. The radiomic-clinical signature presented the feasibility of predicting recurrence risk and assisting clinical decision-making in early-stage invasive breast cancer patients.
Thermal state and evolving geodynamic regimes of the Meso- to Neoarchean North China Craton
Authors: Sun Guozheng , Liu Shuwen , Cawood Peter , Tang Ming , Hunen Jeroen van , Gao Lei , Hu Yalu , Hu Fangyang
Published: October 2020

Constraining the thickness and geothermal gradient of Archean continental crust are crucial to understanding geodynamic regimes of the early Earth. Archean crust-sourced tonalitic–trondhjemitic–granodioritic gneisses are ideal lithologies for reconstructing the thermal state of early continental crust. Integrating experimental results with petrochemical data from the Eastern Block of the North China Craton allows us to establish temporal–spatial variations in thickness, geothermal gradient and basal heat flow across the block, which we relate to cooling mantle potential temperature and resultant geodynamical regime change from plume dominated in the late Mesoarchean (~2.9 Ga) to plate tectonics with hot subduction in the early to late Neoarchean (~2.7–2.5 Ga). The initiation of plate tectonics might have played an important role in the rapid cooling of the mantle, and thickening and strengthening of the lithosphere, which in turn prompted stabilization of the cratonic lithosphere at the end of Archean.
Control of mammalian brain ageing by the unfolded protein response transcription factor XBP1
Authors: Cabral-Miranda Felipe , Tamburini Giovanni , Martinez Gabriela , Medinas Danilo , Gerakis Yannis , Miedema Tim , Duran-Aniotz Claudia , Ardiles Alvaro , Ibaceta-Gonzalez Cristobal Ibaceta , Sabusap Carleen , Bermedo Francisca , Adamson Stuart , Vitangcol Kaitlyn , Huerta Hernan , Zhang Xu , Nakamura Tomohiro , Sardi Pablo , Lipton Stuart , Kennedy Brian , Matus Julio , Palacios Adrian , Plate Lars , Henriquez Juan Pablo , Hetz Claudio
Published: October 2020

Brain ageing is the main risk factor to develop dementia and neurodegenerative diseases, associated with a decay in the buffering capacity of the proteostasis network. We investigated the significance of the unfolded protein response (UPR), a major signaling pathway to cope with ER stress, to the functional deterioration of the brain during aging. Genetic disruption of the ER stress sensor IRE1α accelerated cognitive and motor decline during ageing. Exogenous bolstering of the UPR by overexpressing an active form of the UPR transcription factor XBP1 restored synaptic and cognitive function, in addition to reducing cell senescence. Proteomic profiling of hippocampal tissue indicated that XBP1s expression attenuated age-related alterations to synaptic function and pathways linked to neurodegenerative diseases. Overall, our results demonstrate that strategies to manipulate the UPR in mammals may sustain healthy brain
ageing.
Keeping up with the Joneses: the Relevance of Duesenberry’s Relative Income Hypothesis in Ethiopia
Authors: Bisset Tazeb , Tenaw Dagmawe
Published: October 2020

Although it was mysteriously neglected and displaced by the mainstream consumption theories, the Duesenberry’s relative income hypothesis seems quite relevant to the modern societies where individuals are increasingly obsessed with their social status. Accordingly, this study aims to investigate the relevance of Duesenberry’s demonstration and ratchet effects in Ethiopia using a quarterly data from 1999/2000Q1-2018/19Q4. To this end, two specifications of relative income hypothesis are estimated using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) regression model. The results confirm a backward-J shaped demonstration effect. This implies that an increase in relative income induces a steeper reduction in Average Propensity to consume (APC) at lower income groups (the demonstration effect is stronger for lower income households). The results also support the ratchet effect, indicating the importance of past consumption habits for current consumption decisions. In resolving the consumption puzzle, the presence of demonstration and ratchet effects reflects a stable APC in the long-run. Hence, consumption-related policies should be carefully designed as polices aimed at boosting aggregate demand can motivate low income households to gallop into wasteful competition so as to ‘keep up with the Joneses’—the relative riches.
Reconfigurable Multifunctional Ambipolar Polymer Transistors with Improved Switching-off Capability Upon Non-Uniformly Distributed Compensation Potential
Authors: Wei Peng , Wang Xudong , Li Xianglong , Qiao Nan , Han Songyu , Zhang Peng , Deng Yunfeng , Zhang Wei , Bu Laju , Lu Guanghao
Published: October 2020

Ambipolar field-effect transistors allowing both holes and electrons transport can work in different states, which are attractive for simplifying the device manufactures and miniaturizing the integrated circuits. However, conventional ambipolar transistors intrinsically suffer from poor switching-off capability because the gate electrode is not able to simultaneously deplete holes and electrons across the entire transport channel. Here, we show that the switching-off capability of polymer ambipolar transistor is largely improved by up to 3 orders, through introducing non-uniformly distributed compensation potentials along the channel to synchronically tune the charge transport at different channel locations. Non-uniformly gate-stressed conjugated-polymer@insulator blend film induces non-uniformly trapped charges in the insulators, which consequently generates non-uniform compensation electrical field imposed in the conjugated-polymers. Both n-type and p-type operations with high mobility (2.2 and 0.8 cm2s-1V-1 respectively) and high on/off ratio (105) are obtained in the same device, and the device states are reversibly switchable, which provides a new strategy for three-level non-volatile memories and artificial synapses.
Application of 3D printing and framework internal fixation technology for high complex rib fractures
Authors: Zhou Xuetao , Zhang Dongsheng , Xie Zexin , Yang Yang , Chen Menghui , Liang Zheng , Zhang Guoliang , Li Shujun
Published: October 2020

Objective: To explore the clinical effect of 3D printing combined with framework internal fixation technology on the minimally invasive internal fixation of high complex rib fractures.Methods: Total 16 patients with high complex rib fractures were included in the study. Before the procedure, the 3D rib model was reconstructed based on the thin-layer chest CT scan. According to the 3D model, the rib locking plate was pre-shaped, and the preoperative planning were made including the direction of the locking plate, the location of each nail hole and the length of the screw. During the operation, the locking plate was inserted from the sternum to the outermost fracture lines of ribs with screws at both ends. In addition, the locking plate was used as the frame to sequentially reduce the middle fracture segment and fix with screws or steel wires. Chest x-rays or chest CT scans after surgery were used to assess the ribs recovery. All patients were routinely given non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for analgesia, and the pain level was evaluated using numerical rating scale (NRS). Results: The preoperative planning according to the 3D printed rib model was accurate. The reduction and fixation of each fracture segment were successfully completed through the framework internal fixation technology. No cases of surgical death, and postoperative chest pain was significantly alleviated. Five to ten months follow up demonstrated neither loosening of screws, nor displacement of fixtures among patients. The lungs of each patients were clear and in good shape.Conclusion: The application of 3D printing combined with framework internal fixation technology to the high complex rib fractures is beneficial for restoring the inherent shape of the thoracic cage, which can realize the accurate and individualized treatment as well as reduces the operation difficulty.
Immune Effective Score As A Predictor Of Response To Neoadjuvant Trastuzumab Therapy And A Prognostic Indicator For HER2-positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Wu Xueying , Zhang Chenyang , Xiong Jing-wei , Zhang Henghui
Published: October 2020

Background: HER2-positive breast cancer (BC) is a highly aggressive phenotype and accounts for 15–20% of all BC cases. The role of the host immune features in predictive response to anti-HER2 therapies and prognosis in BC is already suggested. We aimed to develop a predictive and prognostic model and examine its relevance to the clinical outcomes of patients with HER2-positive BC.Methods: Based on the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) scores of the signatures related to neoadjuvant trastuzumab therapy response, an immune effective score (IES) was constructed using principal component analysis algorithms. A bioinformatic analysis using 4 independent cohorts (GSE66305, n=88; GSE130786, n=110; TCGA, n=123; METABRIC, n=236) established associations between IES and clinical outcomes.Results: Genes associated with neoadjuvant trastuzumab therapy response enriched in pathways related to antitumor immune activities, including T cell receptor signaling pathway, Natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity and NF−kappa B signaling pathway. IES was demonstrated to be a predictive biomarker to neoadjuvant trastuzumab therapy benefits (GSE66305: area under the curve (AUC) = 0.804; GSE130786: AUC = 0.704). In addition, IES was identified as an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) in the TCGA cohort (P = 0.036, hazard ratio (HR): 0.66, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.449–0.97) and METABRIC cohort (P = 0.037, HR: 0.9, 95% CI: 0.81–0.99).Conclusions: The IES has a predictive value for response to neoadjuvant trastuzumab therapy and independent prognostic value for HER2-positive breast cancer.
A Three-Gene Prognostic Signature Based on Circular RNA-Associated Competing Endogenous RNA Network for Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Xuelong , Zhou Bin , Xia Yuxin , Zuo Jianxin , Liu Yanchao , Bi Xin , Luo Xiong , Zhang Chengwei
Published: October 2020

Background: Evidence is increasingly indicating that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are closely involved in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. However, functions of circRNAs in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are still unknown. It is necessary to investigate the regulatory mechanism of circRNAs based on competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network in LUAD procession and further construct a prognostic signature for predicting overall survival of LUAD patients.Methods: Differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs), differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) and differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) were selected to construct the ceRNA network based on TargetScan prediction tool and Pearson correlation coefficient. Functional and pathway enrichment analysis were performed using DAVID database. A PPI network was constructed and then visualized by Cytoscape software. Finally, we constructed a prognostic signature for LUAD patients using LASSO method and assessed the prognostic performance in the validation cohort.Results: A total of 38 DEcircRNAs, 56 DEmiRNAs, and 960 DEmRNAs were identifed. Based on the interactions predicted by TargetScan, we constructed a circRNA-associated ceRNA network including 11 DEcircRNAs, 8 DEmiRNAs and 49 DEmRNAs. GO and KEGG pathway analysis indicated that the circRNA-associated ceRNA network might be involved in regulation of GTPase activity and endothelial cell differentiation. After removing the discrete points, a PPI network containing 12 DEmRNAs was constructed. Univariate cox regression analysis showed that three DEmRNAs were significantly associated with overall survival. Therefore, we constructed a three-gene prognostic signature for LUAD patients using LASSO method. By applying the signature, patients in the training cohort could be categorized into high-risk or low-risk subgroup with significant survival difference (HR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.12-2.35, log-rank p = 0.009). The prognostic performance was confirmed in an independent GEO cohort (HR: 2.59, 95% CI: 1.32-5.10, log-rank p = 0.004). Multivariate cox regression analysis proved that the three-gene signature was an independent prognostic factor for LUAD.Conclusions: Our findings provided a deeper understanding of the circRNA-associated ceRNA regulatory mechanism in LUAD pathogenesis and constructed a prognostic signature that could be a useful guide for personalized treatment of LUAD patients.
Astaxanthin Protects Against Early Acute Kidney Injury in Severely-Burned Rats Through Inactivating TLR4/MyD88/NF-kB Axis and Upregulating Heme Oxygenase-1
Authors: Guo Songxue , Guo Linsen , Fang Quan , Yu Meirong , Zhang Liping , You Chuangang , Wang Xingang , Han Chunmao
Published: October 2020

Background: Early acute kidney injury (AKI) contributes to severe morbidity and mortality in critically-burned patients. Renal inflammation plays a vital role in the progression of early AKI. Astaxanthin (ATX) is a strong antioxidant widely-distributed in marine organisms, exhibiting diverse biological effects in trauma and diseases. The anti-inflammatory property of ATX is also suggested. Hence, we attempted to explore the anti-inflammation-based protection of ATX against early AKI post-burn and related mechanisms. Methods: A severely-burned rat model was established in this study. The changes of renal structure and function were determined by hematoxylin-eosin staining and blood test. The oxidative status in kidneys was detected by commercial kits and quantitative real time PCR. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining, quantitative real‐time, and western blot were performed on renal tissues of burned rats to explore the underlying effects and mechanisms of ATX on burn-induced AKI with the help of inflammation inducer and several signal inhibitors.Results: We found oxidative stress-induced tissue inflammation participated in the development of early AKI after burn paralleling with the deterioration of histological damage and function in kidneys, and MyD88-dependent TLR4/NF-kB pathway was activated to regulate renal inflammation. TLR4 and NF-kB inhibitor-TAK242 and PDTC showed similar effects to attenuate burn-induced renal inflammation and early AKI. Upon ATX treatment, the release of inflammatory mediators in kidneys was downregulated, while TLR4/MyD88/NF-kB axis was inhibited dose-relatedly. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could reverse the anti-inflammatory effect of high-dose ATX, whereas TAK242 and PDTC antagonized its action. Furthermore, the expression of heme oxygenase(HO)-1 was also dose-relatedly upregulated by ATX. Conclusions: Collectively, the data above suggests ATX dose-relatedly protects against renal inflammation through regulating TLR4/MyD88/NF-kB axis and HO-1, and finally prevent early AKI following severe burns.
Intraoperative Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Combined With No Drainage After MIS-TLIF in the Treatment of Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation: An RCT
Authors: Du Jinpeng , Yang Junsong , Yan Liang , Shan Lequn , Wang Wentao , Fan Yong , Hao Dingjun , Huang Dageng
Published: October 2020

Background. Minimally Invasive-Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusions (MIS-TLIF), in which nerve root pain caused by early postoperative edema reaction is a common clinical complication. However, there is no effective method to solve this problem. We aimed to use gelatin sponge impregnated with mixed anti-inflammatory drugs combined with no drainage after MIS-TLIF to optimize postoperative effect in the treatment of recurrent lumbar disc herniation (LDH).Methods. From June 2018, the middle-aged patients (45-60 years old) with recurrent LDH were recruited. Included patients were treated with MIS-TLIF surgery, no drainage tube was placed after surgery. All patients were randomly divided into intervention group (Gelatin sponge impregnated with mixed anti-inflammatory drugs) and control group (Saline was immersed in gelatin sponge as a control). Results. The intervention group included 63 cases and the control group included 65 cases. The length of hospital stays and bedridden period in the intervention group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). The VAS score of low back pain in the intervention group was significantly lower than that of the control group at postoperative day 1-6 (P<0.05, for all). The VAS scores of leg pain in the intervention group at postoperative day 1-9 were statistically lower than the control group (P<0.05, for all). Conclusions. Application of gelatin sponge impregnated with mixed anti-inflammatory drugs combined with no drainage after MIS-TLIF can significantly further optimize the surgical effect of recurrent LDH, shorten the bedridden period and hospital stays, to achieve the purpose of early rehabilitation.Trial registration: China Clinical Trial Registration Center, ChiCTR1800016236. Registered 21 May 2018, http://www.chictr.org.cn/listbycreater.aspx
Predictors of perioperative blood transfusion and intraoperative blood loss in thoracolumbar tuberculosis
Authors: Wang Shengyu , Liu Chao , Wei Rongzhi , Zhang Qiuhua , Wu Feng , Wang Yufu , Yan Jinglong
Published: October 2020

Background. During surgery for thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis infection, patients can lose a significant amount of blood and thus require a perioperative blood transfusion. However, the risk factors for increased intraoperative blood loss and perioperative blood transfusion have yet to be identified. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the predictors of perioperative blood transfusion and intraoperative blood loss in thoracolumbar tuberculosis. Methods. From 2008 to 2018, 336 patients who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. The predictors of allogenic blood transfusion were identified using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Univariate and multivariate linear regressions were conducted to investigate the risk factors for intraoperative blood loss. The predictors of high levels of intraoperative blood loss were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results. Altogether, 336 adult patients with thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis were included in this study. The mean age of patients was 49.6 ± 15.5 years old (range 14-85). Our data revealed significant relationships between blood transfusions and female gender, BMI, vertebral collapse/kyphosis and intraoperative blood loss. Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that BMI, levels of instrumentation, surgical approach and operative time were independent risk factors for intraoperative blood loss. Specifically, a lower BMI, decreased preoperative hemoglobin levels, four or more levels of instrumentation, a combined surgical approach and a prolonged operative time were identified as risk factors for high levels of intraoperative blood loss.Conclusions. This study identified some clinical predictors of perioperative blood transfusion and intraoperative blood loss in patients undergoing thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis surgery. These results may contribute to the planning of preoperative blood transfusions and help to minimize intra- or postoperative complications. Level of evidenceLevel IV, retrospective case series.
Allogeneic Red Blood Cell Transfusion Rate and Risk Factors in Elderly Patients With Femoral Neck Fracture After Hemiarthroplasty
Authors: Yue Rui , Yang Minghui , Deng Xiaohui , Zhang Ping
Published: October 2020

Objective: To determine the rate and risk factors of allogeneic red blood cell transfusions (ABT) in elderly patients with femoral neck fracture (FNF) after hemiarthroplasty (HA). Methods: We conducted a study on elderly patients (≥65 years old) who were admitted to the geriatric trauma orthopedics ward of Beijing Jishuitan Hospital for HA treatment from March 2018 to February 2019 due to FNF. The perioperative data were collected retrospectively, and univariate and multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis were performed to determine the postoperative ABT rate and its risk factors. Results: 343 patients were included in the study, of which 151 (44.0%) received ABT after surgery. Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis showed that preoperative low hemoglobin (Hb), high intraoperative blood loss (IBL), advanced age, and low body mass index (BMI) are independent risk factors of ABT after HA in elderly FNF patients. Conclusion: ABT after HA is a common phenomenon in elderly patients with FNF. Their postoperative ABT needs are related to preoperative low Hb, high IBL, advanced age, and low BMI. Therefore, ABT can be reduced from the above aspects.
Prevalence of Tobacco use and Predictors: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Baseline Data from Kong Cohort Study in the South of Iran
Authors: Dadipoor Sakineh , Nejatizade Abdul Azim , Farshidi Hossein , gharibzade Abdullah , Aghamolaei Teamer , Rafati Shideh
Published: October 2020

Background: Tobacco use (TU) has been increasing in Iran and turned into a major national healthcare concern. Thus, the present research aimed to explore the prevalence of TU and its predictors in Bandar-e-Kong in the south of Iran. Methods: The baseline data from Kong cohort study (KCS) were used in a prospective study of 4,035, 40-70 year old subjects in Bandar Abbas in Hormozgan Province between 2016 and 2018. Adjusted and crude odds ratios (OR) were used at 95% confidence interval (CI) to measure the predictors of TU.Results: Hookah smoking (HS) showed to be the most prevalent type of smoking (17.60%, 95% CI: 16.41-18.78%). Only next was second-hand smoking (17%, 95% CI: 15.81-18.14%) followed by cigarette smoking (9%, 95% CI: 8.11-9.89%). Age, gender, education, alcohol consumption and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) were the main predictors of cigarette and hookah smoking. Marital status, place of residence and psychological problems were the only predictors of HS (OR=.1.65, 95% CI: 1.11, 2.45, p=.01), BMI (OR=.95, 95% CI: .93, .98, p=.002) and drug abuse (OR=4.52, 95% CI: 3.11, 6.55, p<.001) were the only predictors of cigarette smoking. Conclusions: Masculinity, higher age, rural residence, low education, alcohol consumption, drugs, second-hand smoking and history of depression were among the main risk factors of smoking behavior. The results indicated a considerable need for more educational and preventive programs for each risk factor involved in smoking behavior especially for HS, exposure to ETS and its consequences in Kong population.
Established and Validated a Novel Nomogram for Predicting Prognosis of Post-mastectomy pN0-1 Breast Cancer Without Adjuvant Radiotherapy
Authors: Qi Wei-Xiang , Lu Cao , Xu Cheng , zhao shengguang , Chen Jiayi
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe present study aims to establish and validate a nomogram for predicting prognosis of breast cancer with pN0-1 who are treated with mastectomy and without adjuvant radiotherapy. Material and methods Between Jan 2009 and Dec 2015, a total of 1879 breast cancer without adjuvant radiotherapy were used for nomogram development. The model was externally validated in an independent cohort of 1356 patients from one phase III trial (NCT00041119). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression were performed to identify predictors of breast cancer specific survival (BCSS), local regional recurrence (LRR), and distant metastasis (DM). Results The 5-year BCSS, LRR and DM rates for the entire cohort was 98% ,2% and 4%, respectively. LASSO regression analysis found that pathological T stage, number of positive LN, grade and Ki-67 were significant predictors for both BCSS and DM-free survival in post-mastectomy breast cancer with pN0-1, while number of resected LN and PR status were predictors for DM-free survival. In addition, number of positive LN was the only significant predictor for developing LRR. The C-indexes for the 5-year BCSS and DM nomograms were 0.81 and 0.78 in the training data set, 0.65 and 0.70 in the testing set, and 0.72 and 0.69 in the external validation set, respectively. Calibration plots illustrated excellent agreement between the nomogram predictions and actual observations for 5-year BCSS and DM-free survival.Conclusion Our prognostic nomograms could accurately predict 5-year BCSS and DM-free survival in post-mastectomy early stage breast cancer without adjuvant radiotherapy, which provide a useful tool to identify high-risk patients who could benefit from additional adjuvant therapy.
Association of Serum 25-(OH)-D3 with Osteosarcopenic Obesity: A Cross-Sectional Study of Older Chinese
Authors: Ma Yanan , Liu Yuyan , Zhang Shen , Cao Lu , He Yu , Xu Shuai , Liang Hong , Chen Feng , Gao Jie , Wang Difei
Published: October 2020

Background Limited and inconsistent epidemiological evidence for the relationship between vitamin D level and risk of osteosarcopenic obesity. We aimed to find out the relationship between serum level of 25-(OH)-D3 and osteosarcopenic obesity.Methods This study was a cross-sectional study. Residents from nine communities of the Tiexi District of Shenyang City were enrolled from May to October 2017. We included 4,506 eligible participants (1,601 men) for analyses. Participants were asked for an overnight fast. Thereafter, Blood samples were collected, and serum level of 25-(OH)-D3 was estimated using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. We undertook logistic regression models adjusted for most known osteosarcopenic obesity risk factors. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.Results Our study included a total of 4,506 participants (2,905 women). In multivariable-adjusted analyses, compared to the lowest tertile, a higher 25-(OH)-D3 level (OR was 0.77, 95% CI was 0.61, 0.98; and P for trend was 0.026) was inversely correlated with osteosarcopenic obesity. A positive association between vitamin D deficiency and osteosarcopenic obesity was found (OR was 1.33, 95% CI was 1.10, 1.62). Inverse relationships between serum level of 25-(OH)-D3 and low bone mass, as well as low muscle mass were found (P values for trend were 0.035 and 0.014, respectively). However, vitamin D deficiency only showed a positive correlation with low muscle mass (OR=1.26, 95 %CI: 1.07, 1.44).Conclusion An independent inverse dose-response association of serum 25-(OH)-D3 level with osteosarcopenic obesity, as well as its compositions was found. Our findings implied that serum 25-(OH)-D3 could be a good predictor of osteosarcopenic obesity in older northeastern Chinese.
Association of Sleep Duration and Weekend Catch-Up Sleep with Suicidal Ideation Among Adolescents with Asthma: Secondary Data Analysis Based on a Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kim Chang Woon , Lee Ju Suk , Lee Jun Hwa , Jo Seon Hui , Kim Sung Hoon
Published: October 2020

Background: Sleep problems are common in asthma. We explored whether sleep duration and weekend catch-up sleep (WCUS), sleep time on weekends that exceeds sleep time on weekdays, are associated with suicidal ideation among adolescents with asthma. Methods: Data were acquired from adolescents participating in the 2019 Korean Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Surveys (KYRBS), which was self-administered, online survey. The KYRBS data were obtained from a stratified, multistage, clustered sample. Students responded prior diagnoses of asthma and sleep time. Associated factors for suicidal ideation were tested by logistic regression models.Results: Among 3,579 and 48,072 adolescents with and without asthma, respectively, adolescents with asthma were younger (14.77±1.72 vs 14.91±1.78 years old) and male predominance (57.3% vs 51.0%), had higher sleep dissatisfaction (50.1% vs. 46.2%), slept less (sleep duration 6.66 ± 1.54 vs 7.07 ± 1.51 hr), and had longer WCUS (2.94 ± 0.01 vs 2.15 ± 0.01 hr) than did those without asthma (p<0.001). The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of suicidal ideation in those with short sleep duration (defined by ≤5h) was 1.41 (95% Confidence Interval [CI], 1.24–1.60). Notably, long WCUS (≥2hr) was significantly associated with a decreased risk of suicidal ideation (aOR, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.78-0.88], p<0.001).Conclusions: Although further research is needed to clarify this association, under the condition of sleep deprivation, WCUS at certain extent might be associated with low risk for suicidal ideation in adolescents with asthma.
Rates of Protein Synthesis Are Reduced in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) from Fragile X Individuals
Authors: Dionne Olivier , Lortie Audrey , Gagnon Florence , Corbin François
Published: October 2020

BackgroundFragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading inherited cause of intellectual disability and is caused by the loss of expression of the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). In animal model of FXS, the absence of FMRP leads to an aberrant rate of neuronal protein synthesis, which in turn is believed to be at the origin of defects regarding spine morphology and synaptic plasticity. Normalisation of protein synthesis in these models has been associated with a rescue of FXS behavioral and biochemicals phenotype, thus establishing the rate of protein synthesis as one of the most promising monitoring biomarker for FXS. However, rate of protein synthesis alteration in fragile X individuals is not well characterizedMethodWe applied a robust radiolabeled assay to measure rate of protein synthesis in freshly extracted peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and blood platelets. We ultimately settle on PBMCs to measure and compare rate of protein synthesis in 13 males with fragile X and 14 matched controls individuals. ResultsUsing this method, we measured a 26.9% decrease (p = 0,0193) in the rate of protein synthesis in fragile X individuals PBMCs. Furthermore, the rate of protein synthesis measurements obtained were highly reproducible, highlighting the robustness of the method. ConclusionOur work presents the first evidence of a diminution of the rate of protein synthesis in a human peripheral model of fragile X. Our results also support the finding of previous studies using brain PET imaging in Fragile X individuals. Since our assay only requires a simple venous puncture, it could be used in other cases of intellectual disability in order to determine if an aberrant rate of protein synthesis is a common general mechanism leading to impairment in synaptic plasticity and to intellectual disability.
Macrodystrophia Lipomatosa Extending Into the Abdominal Wall and Breast: A Case Report
Authors: Liu Jian , Sun Jiaming , Guo Liang , Wang Zhenxing , Guo Nengqiang
Published: October 2020

BackgroundMacrodystrophia lipomatosa is a rare nonhereditary congenital gigantism, characterized by overgrowth of mesenchymal and fibro-adipose tissue, affecting one or more digits of the extremities. Here, we report a rare case of macrodystrophia lipomatosa of the entire right lower limb with extension of hypertrophied fatty tissue into the abdominal wall and breast. Case presentationA 32 years old woman was born with abnormally elongated and thickened right leg, and the condition aggravated gradually. The disease was multiple, including the right leg, right abdominal wall, and the left breast were also involved. The patient mainly complained that she was unable to walk but with the knee flexed. Physical examination revealed that the elongation and thickening was proportional to the left leg, and the involved joints were malformed and dysfunction. X-ray and Computed tomography angiography (CTA) showed the bones and vessels were elongated and thickened, and the joints were hypertrophic and swollen. Amputation, volume reduction and liposuction was performed on the lesions. Histological examination could see abnormal fibro-fatty tissue hyperplasia, the adipocytes were invasive, and part of muscles presented fat degeneration. The lesions showed no recurrence for one year after surgery.ConclusionAfter reviewing the literature of the macrodystrophia lipomatosa, we believed that our case was rare because the hypertrophied fatty tissue extended into the abdominal wall and breast, which was different from former studies and had not been documented worldwide. This novel case will further deepens the understanding of this disease, and will be useful for clinicians in diagnosing it.
The nerve injuries interfere with the development of psoriasis
Authors: Qin Bi , Sun Chaonan , Chen Ling , Wang Siyu , Yang Jianing , Xie Zhen , Shen Zhu
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe involvement of the nerve in psoriasis development has been suggested by sporadic case or case serial reports.ObjectivesTo provide multiple evidence for the nerve in psoriasis development with a retrospective case review, a literature review and a mouse-based experimental study.MethodsPsoriatic patients who had concomitant nerve injuries and such cases from the literatures were reviewed. And, on wild-type mouse level, unilateral denervation surgery was performed on the dorsal skin before and after the induction of psoriasiform dermatitis, respectively. Lesion visual scores were calculated, and lesion biopsies were taken for hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, immunofluorescence analysis, and RNA sequencing & bioinformatics analysis at the time before denervation surgery and the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th day after the surgery. ResultsAll clincal cases (20/20) showed that local lesions under the control of injured nerves relieved spontaneously or even cleared/spared, and only about 1/3 experienced partial recurrence. Next, experimental study based on mouse model demonstrated that the unilateral denervation prior to imiquimod application interfered with the enhancement of inflammatory reactions (e.g. adaptive immune response and Th17 cell differentiation pathway) and the induction of ipsilateral psoriasiform dermatitis. On the other hand, the unilateral denervation after the induction of psoriasiform dermatitis promoted the regression of inflammatory reactions (e.g. T cell activation, TNF signaling, and Th17 cell differentiation pathway) and the recovery of ipsilateral dermatitis. ConclusionOur study based on both retrospective clinical case review and wild-type mouse experiments provides multiple evidence for the involvement of the nerve in psoriasis development. Regulation of immune events, including TNF signaling and Th17 cell differentiation, may be one of the mechanisms of the nerve in psoriasis.
‘None of My Ancestors Ever Discussed this Disease Before!’ How Disease Information Shapes Adaptive Capacity of Marginalised Rural Populations in India
Authors: Asaaga Festus A , Rahman Mujeeb , Kalegowda Suresh D , Mathapati Jagadeesh , Savanur Irfanahemad , Srini Prashanth N , Seshadri Tanya , Narayanswamy Darshan , Kiran Shivani K , Oommen Meera A , Young Juliette C , Purse Bethan V
Published: October 2020

Background: Smallholder farmer and tribal communities are often characterised as marginalised and highly vulnerable to emerging zoonotic diseases due to their relatively poor access to healthcare, worse-off health outcomes, proximity to sources of disease risks, and their social and livelihood organisation. Yet, access to relevant and timely disease information that could strengthen their adaptive capacity remain challenging and poorly characterised in the empirical literature. This paper addresses this gap by exploring the role of disease information in shaping the adaptive capacity of smallholder farmer and tribal groups to Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), a tick-borne viral haemorrhagic fever. Though reported from the late 1950s onwards, there has been an accelerated spread in human cases of this disease since 2014 to new states in southern India. Methods: We carried out household surveys (n=227) and in-depth interviews (n=25) in two affected districts – Shimoga and Wayanad – in the Western Ghats region. Results: Our findings broadly suggest that, despite the generally limited awareness about KFD, access to disease information improved households’ propensity to implement adaptation strategies relative to households that had no access to it. Of the variety of adaptation strategies implemented, vaccination, avoiding forest visits, wearing of protective clothing and footwear, application of dimethyl phthalate (DMP) oil and income diversification were identified by respondents as important adaptive measures during the outbreak seasons. Even so, we identified significant differences between individuals in exposure to disease information and its contribution to substantive adaptive action. Households reported several barriers to implement adaptation strategies including, lack of disease information, low efficacy of existing vaccine, distrust, religio-cultural sentiments, and livelihood concerns. We also found that informal information sharing presented a promising avenue from a health extension perspective albeit with trade-offs with potential distortion of the messages through misinformation and/or reporting bias. Conclusions: Altogether, our findings stress the importance of contextualising disease information (tailored to risk factors, coping strategies and alternative livelihood options) and implementing interventions in a participatory way that sufficiently addresses the social determinants of health in order to bolster households’ adaptive capacity to KFD and other neglected endemic zoonotic diseases.
Comparison of severity signs between patients with primary and secondary dengue infection during the 2016 Burkina Faso (West Africa) outbreak
Authors: Diendéré Eric Arnaud , Sondo/Ouédraogo Apoline Kognimisson , Diallo ismael , Ky/Ba Absetou , Rouamba Toussaint , Dutertre Yann Yves , Bognounou René , Ly Djeneba , Zoungrana Jacques , Sawadogo Abdoulaye , Guira Oumar , Tieno Hervé , Poda Armel , Tinto Halidou
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe factors that expose the severity of dengue are still controversial, particularly the relationship between severe dengue and secondary dengue. More importantly, the severity of dengue infection remains poorly studied in Africa. The objective of this study was to compare severity signs between patients with primary and secondary dengue infection during the 2016 dengue outbreak in Burkina Faso.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study through a retrospective examination of patient medical records managed in Ouagadougou for dengue fever from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2017. All health facilities with the capacity to perform dengue diagnosis in Ouagadougou were considered in the survey. Primary dengue was defined as the presence of AgNS1 and/or IgM and secondary dengue as the presence of IgG associated with one of these two markers. Patients with only IgG were excluded. Univariate and multivariable analyzes were performed using a logistic regression with dengue infection (primary or secondary dengue) as the binary dependent variable. The statistical significant level was set at 0.05.Results Of the 811 patients managed for dengue fever during the study period, 418 (51.5%) were male. Thirty-five patients (4.3%) had primary dengue infection (AgNS1 + and / or IgM + with negative IgG) and seven hundred seventy-six (776) patients (95.7%) had secondary dengue infection. 245 patients (30.2%) experienced severe signs. Renal failure (13.1%) was the main sign of severity, followed by severe bleeding (10.6%). In univariate analysis, severe bleeding were associated with primary dengue infection (OR = 2.65, 95%IC: 1.16 -6.03, p = 0.01). Twenty-four deaths (9.8%) were reported during the period. ConclusionSigns of gravity can occur during primary dengue fever. This study highlight the need to conduct more studies on the severity factors of dengue fever.
Long-lived populations of momentum- and spin-indirect excitons in monolayer WSe2
Authors: Chen Shao-Yu , Pieczarka Maciej , Wurdack Matthias , Estrecho Eliezer , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Yan Jun , Ostrovskaya Elena , Fuhrer Michael
Published: October 2020

In monolayer WSe2, interactions between the lower-energy momentum- and spin-indirect “dark” excitons and the bright exciton (X) are likely to be significant in determining the optical properties of X at high power, and limit the ultimate exciton densities that can be achieved, yet little is known about them. Here, by employing time-resolved photoluminescence measurements, we demonstrate an efficient population of dark excitons via inter-state conversion between X and the spin-indirect intravalley excitons (D) through spin-flip, and between D and the momentum-indirect intervalley excitons (XK) mediated by the exchange interaction (D+D ←→ XK +XK). Moreover, we observe a persistent redshift of the X exciton on sub-ns timescales due to strong excitonic screening by the long-lived dense XK exciton. Our results provide a new insight into the many-body interactions between bright and dark excitons, and point to a possibility to employ dark excitons for investigating exciton condensation and valleytronics.
Assessment of Selected Nutritional and Anti-Nutritional Analysis of Sweet Potato Tubers Collected From Tepi Market, Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Haile Shisho
Published: October 2020

Sweet potato is primarily used for nutrition and medicinal purposes. This study was done to determine proximate analysis and anti-nutritional factors of sweet potato tubers. The sample was randomly purchased fromTepi local market. Then it was analyzed for moisture content, ash content, crude fiber content, oxalate content and acid content. The result of the study showed that 87.6% moisture content, 7.5% ash content, 7.46 mg/100 gm oxalate content, 4.3% crude fiber content and 0.09 M acid content.
H3K27ac-induced lncRNA PAXIP1-AS1 exhibits oncogenic property in ovarian cancer by targeting miR-6744-5p/PCBP2 axis
Authors: Ma Yimin , Zheng Wei
Published: October 2020

We aimed to explore role of lncRNA PAX-interacting protein 1- antisense RNA1(PAXIP1-AS1) in ovarian cancer (OC). RT-qPCR analysis identified upregulation of PAXIP1-AS1 in OC cell lines. Functionally, PAXIP1-AS1 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, accelerated cell apoptosis, and suppressed cell migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Upregulation PAXIP1-AS1 was induced by CBP-mediated H3K27 acetylation (H3K27ac) via bioinformatic analysis and ChIP assay. Furthermore, PAXIP1-AS1 served as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to regulate PCBP2 expression by sponging microRNA-6744-5p (miR-6744-5p). Restoration experiments showed that overexpressed PCBP2 rescued effect of silenced PAXIP1-AS1 on cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and EMT. Overall, lncRNA PAXIP1-AS1 activated by H3K27ac functioned as a tumor promoter in OC via mediating miR-6744-5p/PCBP2 axis, which provided promising insight into exploration on OC therapy.
Characterization of Anaerobic Effluent: Seasonal Influence and use of Anammox Process as Post-Treatment
Authors: Sachetto Pamela Alexa , Menezes Rosana Oliveira , Cruz Luana Mattos de Oliveira
Published: October 2020

This study aimed to verify if subtropical annual seasonality variation of organic matter and nitrogen ratio facilitates the use of anammox process as a post – treatment of anaerobic effluent. We characterized the anaerobic effluent from a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) located in Campinas/SP, Brazil. The collected composed samples were from an UASB reactor in different days, hours and months during one year. We concluded subtropical annual seasonality of COD/N ratio range (2.2 to 3.1) from anaerobic effluent indicates that the use of anammox process is appropriate as post-treatment of anaerobic effluent in subtropical areas. However, as Total COD degrades over time and as total nitrogen concentration is influenced by seasons, these factors need to be taken into account in the project and operation of the reactor over the year.
Short-chain fatty acids and intestinal inflammation in Multiple Sclerosis – Modulation of female susceptibility by microbial products?
Authors: Becker Anouck , Abuazab Mosab , Schwiertz Andreas , Walter Silke , Faßbender Klaus C. , Fousse Mathias , Unger Marcus M.
Published: October 2020

Background. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune-mediated disease of the central nervous system. Experimental data also suggest a role of intestinal microbiota and microbial products such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the pathogenesis of MS. A recent clinical study reported beneficial effects (mediated by immunomodulatory mechanisms) after oral administration of the SCFA propionate in MS patients. Based on available evidence, we aimed to investigate whether SCFA and the fecal inflammation marker calprotectin are altered in MS. Methods. 76 subjects (41 patients with relapsing-remitting MS and 35 age-matched controls) were investigated in this case-control study. All subjects underwent clinical assessment with established scales and provided fecal samples for a quantitative analysis of fecal SCFA and fecal calprotectin concentration. Fecal markers were compared between MS patients and controls, and were analyzed for an association with epidemiological as well as clinical parameters. Results. Median fecal calprotectin concentrations remained within normal range without any group-specific differences. Fecal SCFA showed a non-significant reduction in MS patients, whereas female subjects showed significantly reduced SCFA concentrations compared to male subjects. Conclusions. In our cohort of MS patients, we found no evidence of an active intestinal inflammation. As the vast majority of patients, however, was under immunotherapy, this might have affected the outcome measures. The sex-associated difference in fecal SCFA concentrations might at least partially explain female predominance in MS. Large-scale longitudinal studies including drug-naïve MS patients are required to determine the role of SCFA in MS and to distinguish between disease-immanent effects and those caused by the therapeutic regime.