bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation of Inner Ear Sensory Neurons Using Blastocyst Complementation in a Neurog1 - Deficient Mouse
Authors: Steevens Aleta R. , Griesbach Matthew W. , You Yun , Dutton James R. , Low Walter C. , Santi Peter A.
Published: August 2020

This research is the first to produce induced pluripotent stem cell-derived inner ear sensory neurons in the Neurog1+/− heterozygote mouse using blastocyst complementation. Additionally, this approach corrected non-sensory deficits associated with Neurog1 heterozygosity, indicating that complementation is specific to endogenous Neurog1 function. This work validates the use of blastocyst complementation as a tool to create novel insight into the function of developmental genes and highlights blastocyst complementation as a potential platform for generating inner ear cell types that can be transplanted into damaged inner ears to improve hearing.
Garlic Skin Induced Shifts in the Rumen Microbiome and Metabolome of Fattening Sheep
Authors: Zhu WEN , Su Zhen , Xu Wei , Sun Hanxue , Gao Jinfeng , Tu Danfeng , Ren Chunhuan , Zhang Zijun , Cao Hongguo
Published: August 2020

Background: Garlic and its constituents exhibit activities on modifying rumen fermentation and improving growth performance. As a by-product of garlic processing, garlic skin contains similar bioactive components as garlic bulb. However, studies in ruminants using garlic skin are scarce. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of garlic skin supplementation on rumen fermentation characterizes, growth performance, and involved mechanism in ruminants. Twelve Hu lambs were randomly assigned into one of two treatments: basal diet (CON) or basal diet supplemented with 80 g/kg DM of gallic skin (GAS). The experiment lasted for10 weeks, with the first 2 weeks for adaptation. Results: The results revealed that the average daily gain and volatile fatty acid concentration were higher (P < 0.05) in lambs fed GAS than that in the control group. Garlic skin supplementation did not significantly (P > 0.10) affect the α-diversity indices. Increased (P < 0.05) abundances of Prevotella, Bulleidia, Howardella, Methanosphaera but a decreased (P < 0.05) abundance of Fretibacterium were observed in GAS-fed lambs. Besides, the garlic skin supplementation favorably regulated (P < 0.05) pyrimidine metabolism, purine metabolism, vitamin B6 and B1 metabolism. Moreover, high correlations were observed between fluctuant rumen microbiota and metabolites. Conclusions: Supplementation of garlic skin improved the growth performance of sheep by modifying rumen fermentation through inducing shifts in the rumen microbiome and metabolome.
A New Method for the Empirical Conversion of Logging Data to Clay Mineral Fraction in the Nankai Accretionary Prism
Authors: Yabe Suguru , Fukuchi Rina , Hamada Yohei , Kimura Gaku
Published: August 2020

Sediment lithology, especially the clay mineral fraction, is basic geologic information, which is important for understanding faulting and evolutionary process of the accretionary prism. During scientific drilling, the clay mineral fraction is measured using X-ray diffraction analyses of samples from the acquired cores. However, coring in an accretionary prism is sometimes difficult, which hinders the acquisition of clay mineral fraction data. This study details the development of a new method used to empirically estimate the clay mineral fraction from the electrical resistivity and natural gamma ray logs obtained from the Kumano section of the Nankai Tough, where multiple scientific drilling expeditions have been conducted. This method is composed of two steps. First, porosity is estimated using electrical resistivity logs. In order to compensate for the effect of porosity, the natural gamma ray logs are then normalized using (1 – porosity). Second, the normalized natural gamma ray logs are converted into clay mineral fractions using an empirical conversion function. This empirical function was determined by comparing all available normalized natural gamma ray logs and clay mineral fractions data collected from the Kumano section of the Nankai Trough. As a byproduct of the porosity estimations, thermal conductivity and temperature depth profiles were also estimated for all of the logging sites. As electrical resistivity logs and natural gamma ray logs are essential measurements made during scientific drilling, this new method can be applied to future drilling expeditions in the Nankai Trough. Although the empirical conversion function established in this study is valid only at the Kumano section of the Nankai trough, the same procedure can be applicable to other subduction zones to establish local empirical conversion functions if enough data are available. The clay mineral fraction depth profile estimated using this method can provide useful information for various geological studies, including sedimentology and structural geology of the shallow accretionary prism.
IP-10 and MCP-1 as biomarkers predicting disease severity of COVID-19
Authors: Chen Yu , Wang Jinglan , Liu Chenxi , Su Longxiang , Zhang Dong , Fan Junping , Yang Yanli , Xiao Meng , Xie Jing , Xu Yingchun , Li Yongzhe , Zhang Shuyang
Published: August 2020

Background:
COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome-Coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Patients with this disease may be more prone to venous or arterial thrombosis because of the activation of many factors involved in it, including inflammation, platelet activation and endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, this study focused on coagulation and thrombosis-related indicators (IP-10, MCP-1 and MIP1a) in COVID-19, with the hope to find biomarkers that can predict patients’ outcome.
Methods:
This is a retrospective single-center study involving 74 severe and critically ill COVID-19 patients recruited from the ICU department of the Tongji Hospital in Wuhan, China. The patients were divided into two groups: severe patients and critically ill patients. The serum IP-10, MCP-1 and MIP1a level in both groups was detected using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. The clinical symptoms, laboratory test results and the outcome of COVID-19 patients were retrospectively analyzed.
Results:
The serum IP-10 and MCP-1 level in critically ill patients was significantly higher than that in severe patients (P < 0.001). However, no statistical difference in MIP1a between the two groups was found. The analysis of dynamic changes showed that these indicators remarkably increased in patients with poor prognosis. Since the selected patients were severe or critically ill, no significant difference was observed between survival and death.
Conclusions:
IP-10 and MCP-1 are biomarkers predicting the severity of COVID-19 disease and could be related to the risk of death in COVID-19 patients. In addition, anti-IP-10 antibody treatment may represent a new approach in COVID-19 patients, especially the ones with thrombotic events.
A complex intervention to improve intercultural communication and Aboriginal patient outcomes: which components worked?
Authors: Ralph Anna P , Kerrigan Vicki , Castillon Craig , Mithen Vincent , O'Connor Elise , Hansen Martin , Keilor Natasha , Aitken Robyn , Madrill Gail , Roman Curtis , Cass Alan
Published: August 2020

Background

Aboriginal language interpreters are under-utilised in healthcare in northern Australia. Self-discharge from hospital is an adverse outcome occurring at high rates among Aboriginal people, with poor communication thought to be a contributor. We previously reported increased Aboriginal interpreter uptake and decreased rates of self-discharge during implementation of a 12-month hospital-based intervention. Interrupted time-series analysis showed sudden increase and up-trending improvement in interpreter use, and a corresponding decrease in self-discharge rates, during a 12-month intervention period (April 2018 - March 2019) compared with a 24-month baseline period (April 2016 – March 2018). This paper aims to explore reasons for these outcomes, and further explore the likelihood of a causal association between study activities and outcomes.
Methods

We used the ‘Template for Intervention Description and Replication’ (TIDieR) as a framework to describe intervention components and evaluate their relative importance. Information on intercurrent activities that may have contaminated study findings was reviewed. The relationship between proportion of hospital separations among Aboriginal people ending in self-discharge and numbers of Aboriginal interpreter bookings made during April 2016-March 2019 was tested using linear regression.
Results

One full-time Aboriginal Interpreter Coordinator was employed for the intervention period who identified language needs, promoted interpreter use and mentored interpreters. The intervention period start date corresponded with commencement of this role. Three ‘Working with Interpreter’ training sessions were held during the intervention period reaching 83 clinicians, and three medical officers volunteered as champions of interpreter use in hospital practice. Employment of the Aboriginal Interpreter Coordinator was deemed the most important component of the intervention, based on reach compared to the other components and timing of the changes in outcomes. There was an inverse association between interpreter bookings and self-discharge rate among Aboriginal inpatients (p = 0.02). This association, the timing of changes and assessment of intercurrent activities at the hospital indicated that the study intervention was likely to be casually related to the measured outcomes.
Conclusions

Communication in healthcare can be improved through targeted strategies, with associated improvements in patient outcomes. Health services with high interpreter needs would benefit from employing an interpreter coordinator.
Preparedness and Approaches of Health Care Providers to Tackle the Transmission of COVID-19 Among South Gondar Zone Hospitals, Amhara, Ethiopia, 2020.
Authors: Ambie Minale Bezie , Belay Habtamu Gebrehana , Sewyew Dagne Addisu
Published: August 2020

Objective: Preparedness and approaches of health care providers to tackle the transmission of covid-19 among South Gondar zonal hospitals 2020Result: In this study a total of 422 health providers were interviewed from south Gondar zonal hospitals and overall response rate was 100%. The mean range 35 ± 6 and minimum and maximum ranges of age were between 23 to 50 years and more than three fourth of the providers age range was > 35 years. Regarding professions 203(48.1%), 112(26.5%) were nurses and midwifes respectively. The result over all was not good; people were not prepared preparedness of essential materials, equipments including psychological buildings of health providers in each hospital.
Evaluation of peripheral blood E2F3 mRNA as a potential diagnostic biomarker in human papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Zhao Yue , Zhao Ziqin , Wu Fengyun , Wang Duoduo , Liu Wei , Gu Yelong , Huang Yuan , Liu Chunrong
Published: August 2020

Background: The transcription factor E2F3 plays a vital role in regulating cell cycle progression and proliferation. In addition, many reports have shown that E2F3 exerts an oncogenic role in various cancers and is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of some human cancers. However, the value of E2F3 in the molecular diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) has rarely been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical signiﬁcance of E2F3 in the early diagnosis and monitoring of PTC.Materials and methods: Peripheral blood samples from 20 patients with PTC, 20 patients with benign thyroid lesions and 20 normal controls were collected. Peripheral blood E2F3 mRNA and thyroid sample E2F3 mRNA expression were detected by quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The expression of E2F3 protein in normal thyroid tissue and thyroid tissue from benign thyroid lesions and PTC were detected by immunohistochemistry. The optimal cut-off value for differentiating PTC was obtained by using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.Results: E2F3 mRNA expression levels in peripheral blood and thyroid samples were significantly higher in PTC patients than in patients with benign thyroid lesions and normal subjects (P<0.05). Moreover, benign hyperplasia had higher E2F3 expression than normal tissue (P<0.01).There was no significant association between the level of E2F3 mRNA and aggressive clinicopathologic features of PTC, including TNM staging, extrathyroidal invasion, multifocality, and lymph node metastasis (P>0.05).With a cut-off value of 2.3, blood E2F3 mRNA showed 90% sensitivity, 60.9% specificity, a 70.5% positive predictive value, an 85.47% negative predictive value and 74.4% accuracy for discriminating PTC from benign hyperplasia disease of the thyroid and normal tissue. In addition, immunohistochemical results showed that E2F3 protein expression was also higher in the PTC group than in the other groups.Conclusions: The highest expression of E2F3 was found in peripheral blood and thyroid tissue of PTC patients. Moreover, blood E2F3 mRNA can be considered a promising diagnostic marker for discriminating PTC from benign thyroid diseases.
Long Non-Coding RNA CBR3-AS1 Promotes Stem-Like Properties and Oxaliplatin Resistance of Colorectal Cancer by Sponging miR-145-5p
Authors: Xie Liangbao , Cui Guangfei , Li Tao
Published: August 2020

Background: Accumulating evidence has shown that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serve as essential regulators in a plethora of human cancers. In this study, we analyzed the expression profile and functional role of lncRNA CBR3-AS1 in colorectal cancer (CRC).Methods: CRC tissues and paired adjacent normal tissues were obtained from 133 patients. The expression levels of CBR3-AS1 and miR-145-5p in tissues and cells were detected by RT-qPCR analysis. The proliferation, oxaliplatin resistance, apoptosis, migration, invasion and stem-like properties of CRC cells were detected by MTT assay, flow cytometry analysis, transwell assay and mammosphere formation assay, respectively. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the expression levels of relevant proteins. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay verified the direct interaction between CBR3-AS1 and miR-145-5p in CRC.Results: High expression levels of CBR3-AS1 were found in CRC tissues and cell lines. Upregulated CBR3-AS1 was closely associated with poor prognosis and adverse clinicopathological features of CRC patients. Artificial knockdown of CBR3-AS1 markedly suppressed the proliferation, migration, invasion and stem-like properties, but promoted the apoptosis of CRC cells. Moreover, we observed that CBR3-AS1 could directly bind to miR-145-5p and negatively regulated its expression in CRC. Further experiments also demonstrated that inhibition of miR-145-5p reverted the effects of CBR3-AS1 knockdown on CRC cells. In addition, compared with the parental cells, CBR3-AS1 expression was strikingly increased in oxaliplatin-resistant CRC cells, and the oxaliplatin resistance was notably diminished by CBR3-AS1 knockdown. Conclusions: To conclude, our study suggested that CBR3-AS1 serves an oncogenic role in CRC, and may be exploited as a novel therapeutic target for CRC patients.
Hyperglycemia-Induced MIR-467 Drives Tumor Inflammation And Growth In Breast Cancer
Authors: Gajeton Jasmine , Krukovets Irene , Muppala Santoshi , Verbovetskiy Dmitriy , Zhang Jessica , Stenina-Adognravi Olga
Published: August 2020

Background: Tumor microenvironment contains the parenchyma, blood vessels, and infiltrating immune cells, including tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). TAMs affect the developing tumor and drive cancer inflammation. Methods: We used mouse models of hyperglycemia and cancer and specimens from hyperglycemic breast cancer (BC) patients to demonstrate that miR-467 mediates the effects of high blood glucose on cancer inflammation and growth.Results: Hyperglycemic patients have a higher risk of developing breast cancer (BC). We have identified a novel miRNA-dependent pathway activated by hyperglycemia that promotes BC angiogenesis and inflammation supporting BC growth. miR-467 is upregulated in endothelial cells (EC), macrophages, BC cells, and in BC tumors. A target of miR-467, thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), inhibits angiogenesis and promotes resolution of inflammation. Systemic injections of a miR-467 antagonist in mouse models of hyperglycemia resulted in decreased BC growth (P<.001). Tumors from hyperglycemic mice had a 2-fold increase in macrophage accumulation compared to normoglycemic controls (P<.001), and TAM infiltration was prevented by the miR-467 antagonist (P<.001). BC specimens from hyperglycemic patients had increased miR-467 levels, increased angiogenesis, decreased levels of TSP-1, and increased TAM infiltration in malignant breast tissue in hyperglycemic vs normoglycemic patients (2.17-fold, P=.002) and even in normal breast tissue from hyperglycemic patients (2.18-fold inc., P=.04). In malignant BC tissue, miR-467 levels were upregulated 258-fold in hyperglycemic patients compared to normoglycemic patients (P<.001) and increased 56-fold in adjacent normal tissue (P=.008). Conclusions: Our results suggest that miR-467 accelerates tumor growth by inducing angiogenesis and promoting the recruitment of TAMs to drive hyperglycemia-induced cancer inflammation.
A Young Female Presented With Massive Pulmonary Embolism Wıth Inferior Vena Cava Thrombus as a Complication of Nephrotic Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Jeele Mohamed Osman , Mohamud Mohamed Farah Yusuf , Addow Rukia Omar Barre
Published: August 2020

Nephrotic syndrome (NS); the first described in 1827 as the presence of proteinuria of ≥ 3.5 g/24 hours, albuminemia < 3.0 g, peripheral edema, hyperlipidemia, lipiduria, and increased thrombotic risk which has an incidence of three new cases per 100 000 each year in adults. Nephrotic syndrome had complicated by the induction of a hypercoagulable state with both various venous and arterial thromboembolic events. The pathophysiology of hypercoagulability in the nephrotic syndrome is imbalances of prothrombotic and antithrombotic factors, as well as impaired thrombolytic activity occurs. Here we present, a 19 years old female came to the emergency department with a complaint of chest pain and shortness of breath for three days. The patient quickly diagnosed pulmonary embolism and inferior vena cava thrombosis as a complication of nephrotic syndrome, allowing prompt initiation of anticoagulant therapy. After two weeks of admission, the patient's resolved dramatically, and his laboratory results returned to almost normal, and the patient discharged with Oral Prednisolone, Coumadin, Atorvastatin, and Ramipril. We aim to determine which is the likely cause of pulmonary embolism in patients with the nephrotic syndrome.
Coincidence Analysis: A New Method for Causal Inference in Implementation Science
Authors: Whitaker Rebecca Garr , Sperber Nina , Baumgartner Michael , Thiem Alrik , Cragun Deborah , Damschroder Laura , Miech Edward J. , Slade Alecia , Birken Sarah A.
Published: August 2020

BackgroundImplementation of multifaceted interventions typically involves many diverse elements working together in interrelated ways, including intervention components, implementation strategies, and features of local context. Given this real-world complexity, implementation researchers may be interested in a new mathematical, cross-case method called Coincidence Analysis (CNA) that has been designed explicitly to support causal inference, answer research questions about combinations of conditions that are minimally necessary or sufficient for an outcome, and identify the possible presence of multiple causal paths to an outcome. CNA can be applied as a standalone method or in conjunction with other approaches, and can reveal new empirical findings related to implementation that might otherwise have gone undetected.MethodsWe applied CNA to a publicly available dataset from Sweden with county-level data on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaigns and vaccination uptake in 2012 and 2014 and then compared CNA results to the published regression findings.ResultsThe original regression analysis found vaccination uptake was positively associated only with the availability of vaccines in schools. CNA produced different findings and uncovered an additional solution path: high vaccination rates were achieved by either (1) offering the vaccine in all schools or (2) a combination of offering the vaccine in some schools and media coverage.ConclusionsCNA offers a new comparative approach for researchers seeking to understand how implementation conditions work together and link to outcomes.
Shikonin Enhances the Antitumor Effect of Cabazitaxel in Prostate Cancer Stem Cells and Reverses Cabazitaxel Resistance by Inhibiting the Expression of ABCG2 and ALDH3A1
Authors: Wang Lili , Stadlbauer Birgit , Lyu Chen , Buchner Alexander , Pohla Heike
Published: August 2020

Background: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population among cancer cells, defined as capable of self-renewal, and driving tumor growth, metastasis, and therapeutic relapse. The development of therapeutic strategies to target CSCs is of great importance to prevent tumor metastasis and relapse. Increasing evidence shows that shikonin has inhibiting effects on CSCs. This study was to determine the effect of shikonin on prostate CSCs, and on drug resistant cells.Methods: Sphere formation assay was used to enrich prostate CSCs. The effect of shikonin on viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion was studied. Typical CSCs markers were analyzed by flow cytometry and RT-qPCR. The cytotoxic mechanism of shikonin was analyzed by staining for annexin V, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential. To study the effect of shikonin on drug resistant cells a cabazitaxel resistant cell line was established.Results: Shikonin inhibited the viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion of prostate CSCs. Shikonin enhanced the antitumor effect of cabazitaxel, which is a second-line chemotherapeutic drug in advanced prostate cancer. Shikonin induced apoptosis through generating ROS and disrupting the mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, shikonin suppressed the expression of ALDH3A1 and ABCG2 in prostate CSCs, which are two markers related to drug-resistance. When inhibiting the expression of ABCG2 and ALDH3A1, the cabazitaxel resistant cells acquired more sensibility to cabazitaxel. Conclusions: Shikonin enhances the cytotoxic activity of cabazitaxel in prostate CSCs and reverses the cabazitaxel-resistant state.
ERRα/VDR Axis Promotes Calcitriol Degradation and Estrogen Signaling Activation and Correlates with Poor Prognosis in Basal-like Breast Cancer Patients.
Authors: Danza Katia , Porcelli Letizia , Summa Simona De , Fonte Roberta Di , Pilato Brunella , Lacalamita Rosanna , Serratì Simona , Azzariti Amalia , Tommasi Stefania
Published: August 2020

Background Vitamin D is used to reduce cancer risk and improve the outcome of cancer patients, but the VDR pathway needs to be functionally intact to ensure the biological effects of circulating calcitriol. Besides ERα, another nuclear receptor, ERRα, has recently been shown to interfere with the VDR pathway, but its role in the cytotoxicity and transactivation activity of calcitriol is completely unknown in breast cancer (BC).Methods We investigated the function of ERRα on BC cell proliferation and calcitriol cytotoxicity and transactivation activity by silencing ERRα expression. We then performed a colony formation assay and cell cycle analysis to assess cell proliferation, and western blot and RT-PCR to investigate underlying mechanisms of cytotoxicity and VDR genomic action. Immunofluorescence was used to investigate VDR and ERRα cellular distribution. Bioinformatics analyses were performed to uncover the interaction network of VDR and ERRα. The translational significance of both bioinformatics and in vitro results were studied in the TCGA-BRCA (BReast CAncer) cohort.ResultsERRα functionally supported the proliferation of BC cell lines and acted as a calcitriol-induced co-activator of the VDR complex. As such, ERRα deregulated the calcitriol/VDR genomic action by enhancing CYP24A1 and both ESR1 and aromatase (CYP19A1) expression in calcitriol-treated cells. In contrast, ERRα functionally supported calcitriol cytotoxicity by enhancing calcitriol- induced G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest and by affecting the expression of cyclin D1 and p21/Waf1. The interactome analysis suggested PPARGC1A and PELP-1 were key players in genomic actions of the calcitriol/VDR/ERRα axis. Evaluation of patients’ outcome in the TCGA dataset definitely showed the translational significance of VDR/ERRα biological effects, highlighting that VDR-CYP24A1-ESRRA overexpression correlates with poor prognosis in basal-like breast cancer setting. ConclusionsCollectively, our findings identified a novel VDR/ERRα axis in breast cancer through which ERRα promotes the corruption of VDR genomic action and drives worsening of prognosis in BC patients.
Identification and biochemical characterisation of Acanthamoeba castellanii cysteine protease 3
Authors: Wang Zhixin , Wu Duo , Tachibana Hiroshi , Feng Meng , Cheng Xunjia
Published: August 2020

Background: Acanthamoeba spp. are free-living amoeba that are ubiquitously distributed in the environment. This study examines pathogenic Acanthamoeba cysteine proteases (AcCPs) belonging to the cathepsin L-family and explores the mechanism of AcCP3 interaction with host cells.Methods: Six AcCP genes were amplified by PCR. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyse the relative mRNA expression of AcCPs during the encystation process, and between pre- and post-reactivated trophozoites. To further verify the role of AcCP3 in these processes, AcCP3 recombinant proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli, and the hydrolytic activity of AcCP3 was determined. The influence of the AcCP3 on the hydrolytic activity of trophozoites and the toxicity of trophozoites to human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) was examined by inhibiting AcCP3 expression using siRNA. Further, the levels of p-Raf and p-Erk were examined in HCECs following coculture with AcCP3 gene knockdown trophozoites by western blotting.Results: During encystment, five out of six AcCPs exhibited decreased expression, and only AcCP6 was substantially up-regulated at the mRNA level, indicating that most AcCPs were not directly correlated to encystation. Further, six AcCPs exhibited increased expression level following trophozoite reactivation with HEp2 cells, particularly AcCP3, indicating that these AcCPs might be virulent factors. After refolding the AcCP3 recombinant protein, the 27 kDa mature protein from the 34 kDa pro-protein hydrolysed host haemoglobin, collagen and albumin, and showed high activity in an acidic environment. After AcCP3 knockdown, the hydrolysis activity of trophozoite crude protein against gelatin was decreased, suggesting that these trophozoite had decreased toxicity. Compared with untreated trophozoites or negative control siRNA-treated trophozoites, AcCP3-knockdown trophozoites were less able to penetrate and damage monolayers of HCECs. Western blot analysis showed that after inhibiting the expression of trophozoite AcCP3, the activation levels of the Ras/Raf/Erk/p53 signalling pathways in HCECs were decreased.Conclusions: AcCP6 was correlated to encystation. Further, AcCP3 is a virulent factor in trophozoites, and participated in the activation of the Ras/Raf/Erk/p53 signalling pathways of host cells.
MiR-103 Assumes Signifying Capacity in Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Li Sheng , Ruan Xiaolan , Liu Tongzu
Published: August 2020

Background: Prostate cancer is one of the common cancers among males with high incidence and mortality. MiR-103 has been reported to be involved in several human cancers. In our study, we aimed to explore the diagnostic value of miR-103 in PCa.Methods: In this study, qRT-PCR was performed to investigate the expression levels of miR-103 in serum specimens collected from 141 PCa patients and 77 healthy volunteers. MTT and cell invasion assay were performed to detect the effects of miR-103 on the proliferation and invasion of PCa cells. The diagnostic value of miR-103 in PCa was evaluated by ROC curve.Results: The results showed that serum miR-103 levels were higher in PCa patients than that in healthy group (P<0.001). And the expression of miR-103 was significantly associated with PSA (P=0.007), differentiation (P=0.009), and lymph node metastasis (P=0.037). Cell experiments in vitro demonstrated that miR-103 could promote PCa cell line proliferation and invasion. In addition, ROC analysis suggested that miR-103 could discriminate between PCa patients and healthy individuals at the cut-off value of 0.970. The AUC was 0.885, with the sensitivity of 97.2% and specificity of 81.8%.Conclusions: The increased miR-103 levels can promote proliferation and invasion of PCa cells. Serum miR-103 is significantly associated with tumor progression, which may be a novel biomarker for PCa diagnosis.
The Function of LINC00662/miR-340-5p/STAT3 Regulation Loop in Promoting Tumorigenesis and Development of Glioma
Authors: Ji Wei , Li Zhengwei , Song Likun , Cheng Chao , Sun Jun , Liu Yuankun , Huang Weiyi , Huang Jin , Liu Jin , Xu Bin , Jiao Jiantong , Shao Junfei , Liu Hongyi
Published: August 2020

Background: Long noncoding RNAs( lncRNAs) have been reported to be associated with tumorigenesis and development of glioma. LINC00662 has been implicated in pathogenesis of various human cancers. However, role of LINC00662 in glioma remains unknown.Methods: Bioinformatics methods were used to analysis the expression of LINC00662 in glioma. RT-qPCR was performed to examine the expression levels of LINC00662 in glioma tissues and cell lines. The effect of LINC00662 in cell proliferation and invasion was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8(CCK-8), clone colony formation and transwell assay. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to investigate the interaction between miR-340-5p and LINC00662, 3’UTR of STAT3. CHIP-qPCR and Luciferase reporter assays were used to demonstrate the interaction between STAT3 and the promoter region of LINC00662. Rescue assays and Tumor xenografts in nude mice were applied to verify the effect of LINC00662 in modulating miR-340-5p/ STAT3 signal pathway.Results: LINC00662 was frequently high expressed and associated with malignant phenotype of glioma. LINC00662 knockdown inhibited proliferation, invasion and glioma-genesis of glioma. Moreover, LINC00662 knockdown repressed development of glioma by inhibiting the expression and activation of STAT3 pathway. Mechanically, LINC00662 acted as a ceRNA sponging miR-340-5p to protect the expression of STAT3. More importantly, LINC00662 was one of direct target genes of STAT3.Conclusions: There was a positive regulation loop between LINC00662 and STAT3. LINC00662 might be an oncogene in glioma. Targeting LINC00662 was a potential strategy in glioma therapy.
Interleukin-33 Promotes Cell Survival via P38 MAPK-mediated Interleukin-6 Gene Expression and Release in Pediatric AML
Authors: Wang Yiqian , Su Haibo , Yan Muxia , Zhang Li , Li Quanxin , Gu Xiaoqiong , Gong Qing
Published: August 2020

BackgroundAcute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a fatal disease characterized by an accumulation of immature myeloid blasts in the bone marrow (BM). Cytokine provide signals for leukemia cell to better survive in the BM microenvironment. Previously, we identified interleukin-33 (IL-33) as a stimulator of cell survival in human AML cell line and primary mouse leukemia cells. However, the mechanism on how IL-33 regulates AML activity is not well known.MethodsFlow cytometry, ELISA and cytometric bead array (CBA) were used to investigate the expression of IL1RL1 and serum cytokine levels in AML patient samples and cell culture supernatant. The correlation of serum IL-33 and IL-6 levels was calculated by Pearson R test. Annexin V staining was used to examine the apoptosis of AML cells. RT-PCR was used to measure IL-6 expression in leukemia cells.ResultsThe cell surface expression of IL-33-specific receptor, IL1RL1, is elevated in BM cells from AML patients at diagnosis, and the serum level of IL-33 in AML patients is higher than that of healthy donor controls. Moreover, IL-33 levels are positively associated with IL-6 levels in pediatric patients with AML. In vitro, IL-33 treatment increased IL-6 mRNA expression and protein level in BM and peripheral blood (PB) cells from AML patients. IL-33 inhibited cell apoptosis by activating p38 MAPK pathway using human AML cell line as well as AML patient samples. Finally, IL-33 activated IL-6 expression in a manner that required p38 MAPK pathway using clinical AML samples.ConclusionsTaken together, we demonstrate that p38 MAPK pathway is important for IL-33-mediated anti-apoptotic process as well as cytokine expression and release in pediatric patients with AML.
Eight-year Retrospective Analysis of Malaria Trends in Gedeo Zone, South Ethiopia (2012-2019)
Authors: Molla Eshetu , Behaksra Sinknesh Wolde , Tadesse Fitsum G , Dugassa Sisay , Gadisa Endalamaw , Mamo Hassen
Published: August 2020

Background: Informed decision making is underlined by all level of the tiers in the health system. Poor data record system coupled with under- (over)-reporting of malaria cases affects the country’s elimination activities. Thus, malaria data at health facilities and health offices are important particularly to monitor and evaluate malaria elimination progresses. This study was intended to assess overall reported malaria cases, spatiotemporal trends and factors associated in Gedeo zone, South Ethiopia, and compare malaria case reports by the health centers and health offices.Methods: Past eight years retrospective data stored in 17 health centers and 5 district health offices in Gedeo Zone were extracted. Malaria cases data at each health center with sociodemographic information, between 2012 and 2019, were included. Meteorological data were obtained from the national meteorology agency. The data were analyzed using Stata 13.Results: A total of 485,414 clinical suspects were examined for malaria during the previous 8 years at health centers. Of these suspects, 57,228 (11.79%) were confirmed malaria cases. We noted, an overall under reporting of malaria, 3,758 clinical suspects and 467 confirmed malaria cases were not captured at the health offices level. Based on the health centers records, Plasmodium falciparum (49.74%) was slightly higher (p = 0.795) than P. vivax (47.59%). The majority of cases were found in adults (≥15 years of age) that accounted for 11.47% of confirmed malaria cases (p < 0.0001). There was high spatiotemporal variation: highest cases record was during autumn (12.55%) (p < 0.0001) and, the highest (18,150, 13.17%)) and lowest (5,187 (10.44%)) malaria cases were reported from Dilla town and Yirgacheffe rural district, respectively (p = 0.0002). Monthly rainfall and minimum temperature exhibited strong positive associations with the number of confirmed malaria cases.Conclusion: A notable decline in malaria cases was observed over the eight-year period. Both P. falciparum and P. vivax co-exist; hence, control measures should continue targeting both species. The high malaria burden in urban (Dilla town) and suburban (Dilla zuria district) settings and autumn season need spatiotemporal consideration by the elimination program.
The Enhanced Pyrocatalysis of the Pyroelectric BiFeO3/g-C3N4 Heterostructure for Dye Decomposition Driven by Cold-hot Temperature Alternation
Authors: Chen Mingzi , Jia Yanmin , Li Huamei , Wu Zheng
Published: August 2020

The BiFeO3/g-C3N4 heterostructure, which is fabricated via a simple mixing-calcining method, benefits the significant enhancement of the pyrocatalytic performance. With the growth of the g-C3N4 content in the heterostructure pyrocatalysts from 0 to 25 %, the decomposition ratio of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye after 18 cold-hot temperature fluctuation (25 oC - 65 oC) cycles increases at first and then decreases, reaching a maximum value of ~ 94.2 % at 10% while that of the pure BiFeO 3 is ~ 67.7 %. The enhanced dye decomposition may be due to the fabrication of the heterostructure which strengthens the separation of the positive and negative carriers and further accelerates their migration. The intermediate products in the pyrocatalytic reaction also have been detected and confirmed, which proves the key role of the pyroelectric effect in realizing the dye decomposition using BiFeO3/g-C3N4 heterostructure catalyst. The pyroelectric BiFeO3/g-C3N4 heterostructure shows the potential application in pyrocatalytically degrading dye wastewater.
Alterations in Gut Vitamins and Amino Acids Metabolism are Associated with Symptoms and Neurodevelopment of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Zhu Jiang , Hua Xueying , Yang Ting , Guo Min , Li Qiu , Xiao Lu , Li Ling , Chen Jie , Li Tingyu
Published: August 2020

Background Accumulated evidence have supported metabolic disturbance may be associated with the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Despite abnormalities of some shared metabolic pathways, specific differential compounds are inconsistent in studies, which made a challenge to elucidate the role of metabolism in the mechanism of ASD. Besides, few researches have assessed the correlation between gut metabolites with symptoms of ASD. Objectives The present study aimed to evaluate the gut metabolomic profiles of children with ASD and to analyze potential interaction between gut metabolites with symptoms and neurodevelopment of ASD children. Methods In this cross-sectional case-control study, 120 aged 2–6 years ASD children and 60 sex and age matched typically developing (TD) children were included. Autistic symptoms were assessed with the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Neurodevelopment was assessed with the Gesell Developmental Scale (GDS). Fecal samples were analyzed by untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) methods, then systematic bioinformatic analyses were performed to characterize the gut metabolomic profiles of ASD and TD children. The correlations between metabolites and clinical assessment scores were assessed using Spearman correlation. Results ASD children exhibit gut metabolism perturbation compared with TD children. A total of 96 differential metabolites between the ASD and TD groups were identified, with 35 increased and 61 decreased in ASD group. The metabolic disturbance of ASD involved in multiple vitamins and amino acids metabolism pathways, with the strongest enrichment identified for tryptophan metabolism, retinol metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism, and vitamin digestion and absorption. The imbalanced gut metabolites are significantly correlated to symptoms and neurodevelopment of ASD children. Limitations This cross-sectional study revealed a correlation, but do not allow to prove causation of symptoms and gut metabolites outcome. The disease specificity of the metabolomic disturbance need to be evaluated in future studies.Conclusions ASD children have altered gut metabolite profiles compared with TD children, which mainly involved in multiple vitamins and amino acids metabolism pathways. Notably, vitamins metabolism abnormalities may play roles in the disturbance of amino acids metabolism. Imbalanced gut metabolites are related to symptoms and neurodevelopment of ASD children. Our findings provided an improved understanding of perturbations of metabolome networks in ASD.
Establishment of a Rapid, Lesion-Controllable Retinal Degeneration Model in Monkey for Preclinical Stem Cell Therapy
Authors: Gao Guanjie , He Liwen , Liu Shengxu , Zheng Dandan , Song Xiaojing , Zhang Wenxin , Yu Minzhong , Luo Guangwei , Zhong Xiufeng
Published: August 2020

Background: Retinal degenerative disorders (RDs) are the main cause of blindness without curable treatment. Our previous studies have demonstrated that human induced pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into retinal organoids with all subtypes of retina, which provides huge promises for treating these diseases. Before it can be turned into reality, RD animal models are required to evaluate the safety and efficacy of stem cell therapy, and to develop the surgical tools and procedures for cell transplantation in patients. This study is to develop a monkey model of RD with controllable of lesion sites which can be rapidly prepared, for the studies of preclinical stem cell therapy among other applications.Methods: Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) in three doses was delivered into the monkey eye by subretinal injection (SI) and normal saline was applied as control. Structural and functional changes of the retinas were evaluated via multimodal imaging techniques and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) before and after the treatment. Histological examination was performed to identify the target layer of the affected retina. The health status of monkeys was monitored during the experiment. Results: Well defined lesion with various degree of retinal degeneration was established at the posterior pole of retina as early as 7 days after SNP SI. The damage effect of SNP was dose-dependent. 0.05 mM SNP caused invisible structural changes in retina, similar to the control. 0.1 mM SNP led to the loss of outer retinal layer, including OPL, ONL and RPE, while 0.2 mM SNP impacted the entire layer of retina and choroid. MfERG showed reduced amplitude in the damaged region. The structural and functional damages were not recovered after 7-month follow-up. Conclusion: A simple, rapidly induced, lesion site-controllable, retinal degeneration model in monkey was established by the subretinal injection of 0.1 mM SNP. This monkey model closely mimics the histological changes of RDs, and provides a valuable platform for preclinical assessment of stem cell therapy.
AISI 1045 Steel Flat Surfaces Machining Using the Magneto-Abrasive Method
Authors: Maiboroda V. S. , Belajev O. O. , Dzhulii D. Yu. , Slobodianiuk I. V.
Published: August 2020

The results of the study of using the end-type heads based on permanent magnets for polishing flat surfaces of ferromagnetic parts on standard metal-working equipment are presented in the work. The possibility of a highly efficient achievement of the roughness of flat surfaces up to Ra < 0.05 μm with the initial Ra > 1–2 μm with removing of the heredity of the machining in the form of microwaves obtained in the face milling operation was shown. Based on the results of the analysis of the process of dispergation of the material was analyzed the influence of the magnetic field gradient the intensity of the magneto-abrasive machining of flat ferromagnetic surfaces by heads, which form a magneto-abrasive tool in the shape of a “brush” and “half of torus”. The influence of technological process parameters: the rotation speed of the working heads, the sizes of the working gap, the technological feed on the character of the change in the microgeometry of the machined surface were investigated. The machining conditions, under which occur the preferential machining of micro peaks or micro valleys on a rough surface, were identified. It was determined that the rational conditions of the magneto-abrasive machining of flat ferromagnetic surfaces are: the rotation speed of the working heads 900 rpm, the gap size between the machined surface and the working surface of the head 2.5–4.0 mm and the working feed 10–15 mm/min.

Keywords: finishing, roughness, polishing, permanent magnet, magneto-abrasive tool.
Investigation on the Mechanical Behavior of the Prestressing Strand by Finite Element Method
Authors: Tombak A. , Onur Y. A.
Published: August 2020

Wire ropes that have a wide range of applications endure loads, stresses, strains, and moments while carrying out the duty of carrying loads. Wire ropes and strands are frequently used as load carrying elements due to their flexible structure and being reliable products. A prestressing steel strand is a form of the pattern of 1×6 helical wires which supply extra stiffness. Contact conditions between adjacent wires, helical geometry of wires at outer layers make it difficult to find the mechanic response of wire ropes or strands under axial load. A good way to overcome this difficulty is to perform a computer-aided simulation with finite element method. In this study, a prestressing strand having 11.11 mm diameter is computer-aided modeled by using SolidWorks, and then ANSYS Workbench is used to determine the mechanical response of the investigated rope strand. The findings indicate that results remained in the elastic region in all finite element simulations until the strain value of 0.00728.

Keywords: prestressing strand, finite element method, tensile stress, strain, twisting moment.
An Algorithm for the Detection of Circular Elements in Engineering Design
Authors: Bonello D. K. , Iano Y. , Neto U. B.
Published: August 2020

Various concentrated works have been done in the area of computational vision regarding the circle and texture detections. Detection of circles in images can be beneficial for PCB components industries for the detection of capacitors in printed circuit boards, also for medicine in the detection of red cells, white blood cells, and leukocytes, and for applications which requires precision and assignments regarding the detection of circles in a digital image. In this work is utilized a benchmarking of images to detection circle boards of different radio values for the comparison with the work [1] of this article. The benchmarking of images is composed of five main images that are tested in the algorithm of detection of circles in MATLAB with different values of radio for each image. The results appoint an enhancement of 300 % concerning the algorithm proposed in work [1] showed in this article. In this work also would be plotted graphs concerning the accuracy of the new proposed algorithm with relation to the algorithm proposed in work [1], indicating better results concerning the GUI interfaces and capacity of detection circles.

Keywords: computer vision, pattern recognition, an algorithm of detection, circle detection, parameter identification.
Environmental Monitoring Smart System with Self-Sustaining Wireless Sensor Network Using Data Validation Algorithms
Authors: Kanwal T. , Altaf S. , Javed M. K.
Published: August 2020

Study in Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) has been becoming an emerging and promising research topic aiming for the advancement in the Internet of Things (IoT) for a reliable connection. The capability of the wireless sensor to be used in a complex environment can become hard to reach areas and also be able to communicate in an ad-hoc manner, attracted researchers in recent times. Development in wireless sensor network producing a lot of new applications to sense environment remotely are facing challenges restricting it to perform up to its potential. Data validation and data reliability are such existing problems in this domain that needed to be addressed. Because sensed data cannot be blindly trusted upon, as it may have faults and errors occurred with-in the sensing environment. Besides, to guarantee the active state of the sensing system in a remote area is also essential in terms of power usage and management. The focus of the paper is data validation acquired from sensors deployed in remote areas. Although, lots of data validation algorithms have been proposed by researchers to identify single data fault. However, our research identifies multiple faults, namely spike fault, out of range fault, outliers, and stuck at fault using a hybrid form of an algorithm. A comparison with the existing algorithm shows that the proposed algorithm improved data validation by 97 % in detecting multiple data faults using Artificial Intelligence techniques.

Keywords: wireless sensor network, data validation, feature extraction, feature identification, algorithm.