bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the skin and gill microbiomes in farmed seabass and seabream across different age groups
Authors: Rosado Daniela , Pérez-Losada Marcos , Pereira Ana , Severino Ricardo , Xavier Raquel
Published: July 2020

Background Important changes in microbiome composition related to sexual maturation have been already reported in the gut of several vertebrates including mammals, amphibians and fish. Such changes in fish are linked to reproduction and growth during developmental stages, diet transitions and critical life events. We used amplicon (16S rRNA) high-throughput sequencing to characterize the skin and gill bacterial microbiomes of farmed seabass and seabream belonging to three different developmental age groups: early and late juveniles and mature adults. We also assessed the impact of the surrounding estuarine water microbiome in shaping the fish skin and gill microbiomes.Results Microbiome diversity, composition and potential metabolic functions varied across fish maturity stages. Alpha-diversity in the seabass microbiome varied significantly between age groups and was higher in older fish. Conversely, in the seabream, no significant differences were found in alpha diversity between age groups, although it was higher in the skin of juveniles. Microbiome structure varied significantly across age groups. Different bacterial metabolic pathways were predicted to be enriched in the microbiomes of both species. Finally, we found that the water microbiome is significantly distinct from all the fish microbiomes across the studied age groups, although a high percentage of ASVs is shared with the skin and gill microbiomes.Conclusions We report important microbial differences in composition and potential functionality across the different ages of farmed seabass and seabream. These differences may be related to somatic growth and the onset of sexual maturation. Importantly, some of the inferred metabolic pathways could enhance the host coping mechanisms during stressful conditions. Our results provide new evidence suggesting that growth and sexual maturation have an important role in shaping the external mucosa microbiomes of fish and highlight the importance of considering different life stages in microbiome studies.
Treatment of Osteosarcoma from the spine: A population-based database study
Authors: Tang Chao , Wang Ruiliang , Xu Hengyuan , Zhang Hailong
Published: July 2020

PurposeThe treatment of osteosarcoma of the spine remains controversial. Our aim is to explore the treatment of patients with spinal osteosarcoma.MethodsWe analyzed the date collected 727 spinal osteosarcoma patients from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) databases between 1973 and 2015. X-tile software was performed to find the optimal cut-off values of age and economic income. Univariate and Multivariate Cox analyses were used to identify the independent prognostic factors. Logistic regression model was conducted to clear the factors associated to surgical compliance; Kaplan-Meier estimator method was adopted to analyze the Overall survival (OS) and Cancer-specific survival (CSS).ResultsAmong 727 eligible spinal osteosarcoma patients, 370 (50.9%) patients received surgical treatment, 357 (49.1%) cases without surgery. There were significant differences in the effects of age at diagnosis, SEER historic stage and tumor grade on surgical treatment (All P < 0.05). Surgery was an independent prognostic factor for OS and CSS of spinal osteosarcoma patients. Spinal osteosarcoma patients undergone surgery group showed favorable survival than the other group.ConclusionsSurgery can provide survival benefits for patients with osteosarcoma of the spine. Spinal osteosarcoma patients with undergone surgery have favorable survival and surgery can become a suitable treatment for patients.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Choroidal Metastases: Long-Term Outcome and Response to Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Bouchez Clémentine , Pluvy Johan , Soussi Ghassen , Nguenang Marina , Brosseau Solenn , Tourne Morgan , Collin Mégane , Théou-Anton Nathalie , Guyard Alice , Ammar Jamila , Khalil Antoine , Zalcman Gérard , Gounant Valérie
Published: July 2020

Background: Although previously reported, little is known about choroidal metastasis in EGFR-mutant NSCLC. Methods: In this single-center retrospective cohort including 83 consecutive metastatic EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients, from Sept. 2015 to Oct. 2018, six exhibited symptomatic choroidal metastases. All brain MRI scans performed in the EGFR-mutant patients were reviewed, with one case of asymptomatic choroidal metastasis identified. Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test were conducted to assess median overall survival (OS) from diagnosis for the two groups, with or without choroidal metastases.Results: Prevalence of choroidal metastases in EGFR-mutated NSCLCs was 8.4% (7/83). Five were women, and four current or former smokers. Molecular analysis showed three tumors with exon 19 deletion, three with L858R mutation, and one with complex exon 21 mutation. The choroidal metastases were symptomatic in six/seven patients. Visual disturbances decreased in all but one symptomatic cases upon EGFR TKI, and the choroidal response was maintained over time. Median follow-up was 42.2 mo (95%CI [37.2 - 47.1]). Median OS in the choroidal metastasis group was 23.4 mo (95%CI [0.1 - 51.4]) versus 27.9 mo (95%CI [16.9 - 38.9]) in the non-choroidal metastasis group (p=0.32). In the choroidal metastasis group, 2-year and 5-year OS were 47.6% and 0%, respectively, versus 55.8% and 26.3% in the non-choroidal metastasis subset.Conclusions: Choroidal metastases in NSCLC EGFR-mutant patients are rare but should be systematically suspected in case of visual disturbance. TKIs are efficient for treating visual symptoms. Whether choroidal metastases confer a worse prognosis remains unclear owing to the third-generation EGFR TKI osimertinib first-line registration.
Outcomes and Complications of Open, Laparoscopic, and Hybrid Giant Ventral Hernia Repair
Authors: Yang Shuo , Wang Minggang , Nie Yusheng , Zhao Xuefei , Liu Jing
Published: July 2020

Background

This study aimed to compare outcomes and complications between open, laparoscopic, and hybrid (laparoscopic and open combined) approaches in giant ventral hernia repair.

Methods

Records of patients with giant ventral hernias who received operations from 2006 to 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Open, laparoscopic, or a hybrid procedure was performed in every case. The primary outcome was hernia recurrence rate, and secondary outcomes included intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Results

A total of 82 patients received open repair, 94 laparoscopic repair, and 132 hybrid repair. The median hernia diameter was 13.11 ± 3.4 cm. With a mean follow-up of 41 months, the incidence of hernia recurrence in the hybrid procedure group was 1.3%, which was significantly lower than that in the laparoscopic (20.5%) or open procedure group (8.5%) (P < 0.001). The incidence of intraoperative intestinal injury was 6.1% in open, 4.1% in laparoscopic, and only 1.5% in the hybrid procedure (hybrid vs. open and laparoscopic procedures; P < 0.05). Rates of postoperative intestinal fistula formation in the open, laparoscopic, and hybrid groups were 2.4%, 6.8%, and 3.3%, respectively (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with an open and a simple laparoscopic procedure, a hybrid procedure is more effective and safer in the repair of giant ventral hernias.
Dynamic changes of liver function parameters in patients with coronavirus disease 2019: A multicenter, retrospective study
Authors: Zeng Qing-Lei , Yu Zu-Jiang , Ji Fanpu , Li Guang-Ming , Zhang Guo-Fan , Xu Jiang-Hai , Lin Wan-Bao , Zhang Guo-Qiang , Li Guo-Tao , Cui Guang-Lin , Wang Fu-Sheng
Published: July 2020

Background: Liver injuries in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported, however, the clinical role played by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is obscure. Methods: In this multicenter, retrospective study, the parameters of liver function tests in COVID-19 inpatients were compared between various timepoints referred to SARS-CoV-2 shedding, and 3 to 7 days before first detection of viral shedding was regarded as reference baseline.Results: Totally, 70 COVID-19 inpatients were enrolled. Twenty-two (31.4%) cases had self-medications history after illness. At baseline, 10 (14.3%), 7 (10%), 9 (12.9%), 2 (2.9%), 15 (21.4%), and 4 (5.7%) patients already had abnormal rates of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), albumin, and total bilirubin (TBIL), respectively. ALT and AST abnormal rates and levels did not show any significantly dynamic change during the full period of viral shedding (all P > 0.05). GGT abnormal rate (P = 0.008) and level (P = 0.033) significantly increased on day 10 of viral shedding. Meanwhile, no simultaneously significant increases of ALP abnormal rates and levels were observed. TBIL abnormal rates and levels significantly increased on day 1 and 5 of viral shedding (all P < 0.05). Albumin abnormal decrease rates increased and levels decreased consistently from baseline to SARS-CoV-2 clearance day (all P < 0.05). Thirteen (18.6%) patients had chronic liver diseases, two of them died. The ALT and AST abnormal rates and levels did not increase in patients with chronic liver diseases during SARS-CoV-2 shedding.Conclusions: The SARS-CoV-2 does not directly lead to elevations of ALT and AST, but may result in elevations of GGT and TBIL, the albumin decreased extraordinarily even SARS-CoV-2 shedding discontinued.
The Will Rogers phenomenon, Breast Cancer and Race
Authors: Nittala Mary Roselin , Mundra Eswar K , Packianathan Satyaseelan , Mehta Divyang , Smith Maria L , Woods William C , McKinney Shawn A , Craft Barbara S , Vijayakumar Srinivasan
Published: July 2020

Background: The Will Rogers phenomenon [WRP] describes an apparent improvement in outcome for patients’ group due to tumor grade reclassification. Staging of cancers is important to select appropriate treatment and to estimate prognosis. The WRP has been described as one of the most important biases limiting the use of historical cohorts when comparing survival or treatment. The main purpose of this study is to assess whether the WRP exists with the move from the AJCC 7th to AJCC 8th edition in breast cancer [BC] staging, and if racial differences are manifested in the expression of the WRP.Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 300 BC women (2007- 2017) at an academic medical center. Overall survival [OS] and disease-free survival [DFS], estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Bi and multi-variate Cox regression analyses, used to identify racial factors associated with outcomes.Results: Our patient cohort included 30.3% Caucasians [C] and 69.7% African-Americans [AA]. Stages I, II, III, and IV were 46.2%, 26.3%, 23.1%, and 4.4% of C; 28.7%, 43.1%, 24.4%, and 3.8% of AA respectively, in anatomic staging (p=0.043). In prognostic staging, 52.8%, 18.7%, 23%, and 5.5% were C while 35%, 17.2%, 43.5%, and 4.3% were AA, respectively (p=0.011). A total of C (45.05% vs. 47.85%) AA, upstaged. C (16.49% vs. 14.35%) AA, down-staged. Remaining, 38.46% and 37.79% patients had their stages unchanged.With a median follow-up of 54 months, the AA patients showed better stage-by-stage 5-year OS rates using 8th edition compared to the 7th edition (p=0.000). Among the C, those who were stage IIIA in the 7th but became stage IB in the 8th had a better prognosis than stages IIA and IIB in the 8th (p=0.000). The 8th showed complex results (p=0.176) compared to DFS estimated using the 7th’s (p=0.004).Conclusion: The WRP exists with significant variability in the move from the AJCC 7th to the 8th edition in BC staging (both C and AA patients). We suggest that caution needs to be exercised when results are compared across staging systems to account for the WRP in the interpretation of the data.
A systematic review to assess the impact of the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme (EHCVS) and the feasibility to fully adopt in Hong Kong elder care services
Authors: Pun Joe Wing , Elliott Lana
Published: July 2020

Background: Finding a solution to tackle the overcrowding and over-reliance on public health care services has been a policy agenda of the Hong Kong Government throughout the past decade. The purpose of this review is to provide valuable insight for policymakers to understand whether the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme (EHCVS) is a realistic policy tool to shift service demand from the public to the private sector and its possibility to apply in other similar publicly funded settings.Methods: Included records in this review were selected through CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar peer-reviewed articles databases and nine targeted government websites. All potential records were assessed based on the prespecified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Thematic synthesis was used to combine the extracted data and to construct key themes of the impact of the EHCVS.Results: The findings highlight some of the successes of the policy that focus on strengthening the connection between government, elders and private health care providers, and improving the quality of acute care. However, less than successful elements that require revision include designing the purpose of voucher for preventive care and disease management and shifting elders from the public to private health sector through financial incentives. Overall, the analysis suggested the financial subsidies have not motivated elders to utilise private health care services, but rather it demonstrates an effort by the Hong Kong Government to begin addressing public health care waiting lists while prioritising quality care for senior citizens throughout the last 10 years.Conclusion: Better consideration of the subsidy amount to remove the financial burden of the older population, along with greater information disclosure and promotion may increase elders’ willingness to utilise private elder care services, potentially improve the quality of life for seniors, and ultimately reduce the burden on public elder care sector in the future.
Human Intestinal Tissue Explant Exposure to Silver Nanoparticles Reveals Sex Dependent Alterations in Inflammatory Responses and Epithelial Cell Permeability
Authors: Khare Sangeeta , Gokulan Kuppan , Williams Katherine , Orr Sarah Beth
Published: July 2020

Background: Consumer products manufactured with antimicrobial silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) may affect the gastrointestinal (GI) system. The human GI-tract is complex and there are physiological and anatomical differences between human and animal models that limit comparisons between species. Additionally, induction of overt toxicity in animal and in vitro models by AgNP exposure can require doses that are well above what is feasible from environmental exposure or from the use of consumer products. This suggests that a practical assessment of potential AgNP effects on the human GI-tract may require tools that allow for the examination of subtle changes in inflammatory markers and indicators of epithelial perturbation. Methods: We utilize fresh tissue excised from the GI-tract of human male and female subjects to evaluate the effects of AgNPs on the GI-system. The purpose of this study was to perform an assessment on the ability of the ex vivo model to evaluate changes in levels of pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and mRNA expression of intestinal permeability related genes induced by AgNPs in ileal tissues. Results: The ex vivo model preserved the structural and biological functions of the in-situ organ. Analysis of cytokine expression data indicated that intestinal tissue of male and female subjects responded differently to AgNP treatment, with male samples showing significantly elevated Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) after treatment with 10-nm and 20-nm AgNPs for 2 hours and significantly elevated RANTES after treatment with 20-nm AgNPs for 24 hours. In contrast, tissues of female patients showed no significant effects of AgNP treatment at 2-hours and significantly decreased RANTES (20 nm), TNF-α (10 nm), and IFN-g (10 nm) at 24-hours. Smaller size AgNPs (10 nm) perturbed more permeability-related genes in samples of male subjects (38 up-regulated, 18 down-regulated), than samples of female subjects (23 up-regulated, 15 down-regulated). In contrast, exposure to 20-nm AgNPs resulted in upregulation of a greater number of genes in female-derived samples (36 genes) than in male-derived samples (8 genes). Conclusion: Results of this study suggest that the ex vivo tissue model deserves further evaluation as a tool to assess the impacts of nanomaterials and other xenobiotic compounds on human intestinal mucosa.
Impact of Family Capital and Social Capital on Selected Beekeepers in Up Scaling of Beekeeping Venture (Entrepreneurship) Development in Case Studies of Punjab State, India
Authors: bajpai vikas , Kaur Rupinder , Tiwari Devinder , Rampal Vipan Kumar
Published: July 2020

The Agri-Entrepreneurship is modern approach to run his farm on profitable manner. it had support to entrepreneur for imperative role in the process of economic growth and technological change in thier entreprise to sustainable development of the beekeeping sector in the leading agricultural state of India i.e. Punjab, entrepreneurship has to be promoted among beekeepers. Moreover, the impact of family capital and social capital that determine to assessment the start and up scaling beekeeping venture have to be analysed and explained. This study clearly inferred that the family capital and social capital determine beekeepers to engage in entrepreneurial activities. family capital and social capital in apiculture was as well analysed, but the survey revealed the fact that beekeepers that had positive impact on up scaled apiculture entreprise were more interested in starting a business that those who had been practicing apiculture for many years. The study reveals the fact that beekeepers from the punjab of india possess financial, physical and mental ( family ) that influence the performance and trust, social networking and reciprocity ( social ) both dimension capital result had observed potential of up scaling their beekeeping enterprise.
Two-Step Seismic Noise Reduction Saused by COVID-19 Induced Reduction in Social Activity in Metropolitan Tokyo, Japan
Authors: Yabe Suguru , Imanishi Kazutoshi , Nishida Kiwamu
Published: July 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic that started at the end of 2019 forced populations around the world to reduce social and economic activities; it is believed that this can prevent the spread of the disease. In this paper, we report a seismic noise analysis during such an induced social activity reduction taking the Tokyo Metropolitan area, Japan. Using seismic data obtained from 18 stations in the Metropolitan Seismic Observation Network (MeSO-net), a two-step seismic noise reduction in the frequency bands 1–20 Hz and 20–40 Hz was observed during the timeline of COVID-19 in Tokyo. The first noise reduction occurred at the beginning of March in the frequency band 20–40 Hz. This corresponded with the request of the Prime Minister of Japan for a nationwide shutdown of schools. Although social activity was not reduced significantly at this juncture, local reduction of seismic wave excitation in the high frequency band, 20–40 Hz, was recorded at some MeSO-net stations located in school properties. The second reduction of seismic noise occurred at the end of March to the beginning of April 2020 in the frequency band 1–20 Hz. This timing corresponds to when the Governors of the Tokyo Metropolitan area requested citizens to stay home and when the state of emergency was declared for the Tokyo Metropolitan area by the government, respectively. The estimated population at train stations abruptly dropped since this timing, which suggests that social activity was severely reduced. Such large-scale change in social activity affects the seismic noise level in the low frequency bands. The seismic noise level started to increase from the middle of May correlating with increase in population at the train stations. This suggests that social activity restarted even before the state of emergency was lifted at the end of May. The two-step seismic noise reduction observed in this study has not been reported in other cities around the world. Unexpected reduction of social activity due to COVID-19 provided us a rare opportunity to investigate the characteristics of seismic noise caused by human activities.
Comparison of Gut Microbiota and Serum Biomarkers in Obese Patients Diagnosed with Diabetes and Hypothyroid Disorder
Authors: Tabasi Mohsen , Eybpoosh Sana , Heravi Fatemah Sadeghpour , Siadat Seyed Davar , Mousavian Ghazal , Elyasinia Fezzeh , Soroush Ahmadreza , Bouzari Saeid
Published: July 2020

Background

Variations of serum biomarkers and bacterial diversity of the gastrointestinal tract in obese patients with diabetes or hypothyroid are poorly understood. This study broadened our understanding of recent findings in this regard.
Methods

A total of 120 obese patients (18 with diabetes, 23 with hypothyroid, and 79 patients without either diabetes or hypothyroid (control)) were recruited in this study. Serum biomarkers such as biochemical, hormonal (insulin and glucagon), and cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10, and TGF–β 1) were measured under fasting conditions. Bacterial diversity of gut microbiota was also quantitated by real-time PCR using 16S rRNA gene-based specific primers.
Results

Average value of blood sugar (P: 0.0184), insulin, HOMA-IR, TGF-β 1, IL-6, IL-1β, IFNγ, IL-10 (Pfor each < 0.001), phylum Actinobacteria (OR: 1.5, P: 0.032), Firmicutes (OR: 0.6 P: 0.058), and Akkermansia muciniphilai (OR: 0.4, P: 0.053) was significantly different in diabetic vs. non-diabetic obese patients but was not significantly different in hypothyroid vs. non-hypothyroid obese patients. Average value of Bifidobacterium, Bacteroidetes, Prevotella spp., Bacteroides fragilis group, Clostridium cluster IV, Roseburia spp., and Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio (F/B) was not significantly different between these groups either in crude or adjusted models.
Conclusion

While there are some associations between serum biomarkers or bacterial diversity with diabetes prediction in obese patients, this prognostication is less likely in obese patients with hypothyroid. Further investigation is warranted in the application of identified preclinical biomarkers in the diagnosis of diabetes or hypothyroid in obese patients.
Insights Into the Molecular Mechanism of Deer Antler Extract Serving as a Potential Chondroprotective Agent for Articular Cartilage
Authors: Yao Baojin , Zhou Zhenwei , Zhang Mei , Leng Xiangyang , Zhao Daqing
Published: July 2020

Background
Deer antler is considered as a precious traditional Chinese medicinal material, and has been widely used to reinforce kidney’s yang, nourish essence and strengthen bone function. The most prominent bioactive components in deer antler are water-soluble proteins that play potential roles in bone formation and repair. The aim of this study was to explore the molecular control and therapeutic targets of deer antler extract (DAE) on articular cartilage.
Methods
DAE was prepared as previously described. All rats were randomly divided into Blank group and DAE group (10 rats per group) after 7-day adaptive feeding. The rats in DAE group were orally administrated with DAE at a dose of 0.2 g/kg per day for 3 weeks and the rats in Blank group were fed with drinking water. Total RNA was isolated from the articular cartilage of knee joints. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) experiment combined with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) verification assay were carried out to explore the molecular control and therapeutic targets of DAE on articular cartilage.
Results
We demonstrated that DAE played a potential role in promoting cartilage formation, growth and repair, and inhibiting cartilage degeneration and inflammation. These effects were possibly achieved by accelerating the expression of functional genes involved in chondrocyte commitment, survival, proliferation and differentiation, and suppressing the expression of susceptibility genes involved in the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis.
Conclusions
DAE might serve as a chondroprotective agent for treating cartilage degeneration and inflammation by boosting the ability of cartilage growth and repair. Thus, our findings will contribute towards deepening the knowledge about the molecular control and therapeutic targets of DAE on the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Soot removal from ancient Egyptian complex painted surfaces using a double network gel: Empirical tests on the ceiling of the sanctuary of Osiris in the temple of Seti I – Abydos
Authors: Al-Emam Ehab Awad , Motawea Abdel Ghafour , Caen Joost , Janssens Koen
Published: July 2020

In this study, we evaluated the ease of removal of soot layers from ancient wall paintings by employing double network gels as a controllable cleaning method. The ceiling of the temple of Seti I (Abydos, Egypt) is covered with thick layers of soot; this is especially the case in the sanctuary of Osiris. These layers may have been accumulated during the occupation of the temple by Christians, fleeing the Romans in the first centuries A.D.. Soot particulates are one of the most common deposits to be removed during conservation-restoration activities of (Egyptian) wall paintings. They usually mask the painted reliefs and reduce the permeability of the painted surface. A Polyvinyl alcohol-borax/agarose (PVA-B/AG) double network gel was selected for this task since its properties were expected to be compatible with the cleaning treatment requirements. The gel is characterized by its flexibility, permitting to take the shape of the reliefs, while also having self-healing properties, featuring shape stability and an appropriate capacity to retain liquid. The gel was loaded with several cleaning reagents that proved to be effective for soot removal. Two sets of soot removal tests were conducted with these gel composites. The cleaned surfaces were examined in situ with the naked eye and with a digital microscope in order to select the best gel composite. The gel composite, loaded with a solution of 5% ammonia, 0.3% ammonium carbonate, and 0.3% EDTA yielded the most satisfactory results and allowed to safely remove a crust of thick soot particles from the surface. Thus, during a third phase of the study, it was used successfully to clean a larger area of the ceiling.
Gene Expression Profiling For Diagnosis of Multiple Primary Malignant Tumors
Authors: Zheng Yu , Sun Yifeng , Kuai Yue , Fu Guoxiang , An Huimin , Chen Jinying , Zhu Jiajun , Wu Yiwang , Song Kaibin , Xu Qinghua , Wu Di , Huang Deshuang , Pan Hongming
Published: July 2020

Background: The incidence of multiple primary malignant tumors (MPMTs) is rising due to the development of screening technologies, significant treatment advances and the increased aging of the population. For patients with a prior cancer history, distinguishing tumor recurrence or metastasis from a second malignant tumor has important prognostic and therapeutic implications and still represents a difficult problem in clinical practice. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the performance of a 90-gene expression assay and explored its potential diagnostic utility for MPMTs across a broad spectrum of tumor types. Twenty-four MPMT patients from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, college of medicine, Zhejiang University were enrolled in this study. A total of 51 MPMT specimens met all quality control criteria and were analyzed by the 90-gene expression assay. Results: For each clinical specimen, the tumor type predicted by the 90-gene expression assay was compared with its reference diagnosis with an overall accuracy of 94.1% (48 of 51, 95% confidence interval: 0.83-0.98). Additionally, the hierarchical clustering of 90-gene expression profiling in 51 specimens revealed MPMT samples were grouped together depending on tumor types or system types rather than individual MPMT patients. Conclusions: Therefore, the 90-gene expression assay provides flexibility and accuracy in identifying the tissue origin of MPMTs, especially in squamous cell carcinoma. Future incorporation of the 90-gene expression assay in the pathological diagnosis will assist oncologists in applying precise treatments, leading to improved care and outcomes for MPMT patients.
Association of Spectroscopically Determined Leaf Nutrition Related Traits and Breeding Selection in Sassafras Tzumu
Authors: Li Yanjie , Liu Wenjian , Tan Zifeng , Jiang Jingmin , Liu Jun
Published: July 2020

Background: The nutrition related to traits is an influential role in tree growth, tree production and nutrient cycling. Therefore, the influence of genetic parameters on leaf nutrition traits ought to take account of optimal tree breeding selection. However, the measurement methods are seriously affected by the progress of breeding selection program. In this study, we tested the ability of spectroscopy to quantify the specific leaf nutrition traits including Anthocyanins (ANTH), flavonoids (FLAV) and Nitrogen balance index (NBI), and estimated the genetic variation of these leaf traits based on the spectroscopic predicted data. Live fresh leaves of Sassafras tzumu were selected for spectral collection, after which concentrations of ANTH, FLAV and NBI were analyzed by standard analytical methods. Partial least squares regression (PLSR), five spectra pre-processing methods, and four variable selection algorisms were conducted for the optimal prediction model selection. Each trait model was simulated 200 times for error estimation.Results: The stander normal variation (SNV) to the ANTH model and 1st derivatives to the FLAV and NBI models, combined with significant Multivariate Correlation (sMC) algorithm variable selection are finally regarded as the best performance model. The ANTH model produced the highest accuracy of prediction with a mean R2 of 0.72 and mean RMSE of 0.10 %, followed by FLAV and NBI model (mean R2 =0.58, mean RMSE = 0.11 % and mean R2 =0.44, mean RMSE = 0.04 %). High heritability was found of ANTH FLAV and NBI with h2 of 0.78, 0.58 and 0.61 respectively. It shows that it is benefitting and possible of breeding selection for the improvement of leaf nutrition traits.Conclusions: Spectroscopy can successfully characterize the leaf nutrition traits in living tree leaves and the ability to simultaneous multiple plant traits provides a promising and high-throughput tool for the quick analysis of large size samples and serves for genetic breeding program.
Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease: case report of a newborn with rare PKHD1 mutation, rapid renal enlargement and early fatal outcome
Authors: Serra Gregorio , Corsello Giovanni , Antona Vincenzo , D'Alessandro Maria Michela , Cassata Nicola , Cimador Marcello , Giuffrè Mario , Schierz Ingrid Anne Mandy , Piro Ettore
Published: July 2020

Introduction Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD; MIM#263200) is one of the most frequent pediatric renal cystic diseases, with an incidence of 1:20,000. It is caused by mutations of the PKHD1 gene, on chromosome 6p12. The clinical spectrum is highly variable, ranging from late-onset milder forms to severe perinatal manifestations. The management of newborns with severe pulmonary insufficiency is challenging, and causes of early death are sepsis or respiratory failure. In cases of massive renal enlargement, early bilateral nephrectomy and peritoneal dialysis may reduce infant mortality. However, there is no conclusive data on the role of surgery, and decision-making is driven by patient’s clinical condition and expertise of the center. Patient presentation We hereby describe a preterm female newborn with perinatal, rapid and bilateral, abnormal growth of both kidneys, respiratory failure and initial signs of liver disease. She was subsequently confirmed to be affected by a rare and severe homozygous mutation of the PKHD1 gene, inherited from both her consanguineous parents. Our patient died 78 days after birth, due to a fungal sepsis which worsened her respiratory insufficiency. Conclusions This patient report shows some of the clinical and ethical issues of neonatal ARPKD, and the need of multidisciplinary approach and good communication with the family. Target next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques may guide and support clinicians, as well as guarantee to these patients the most appropriate clinical management, avoiding unnecessary and/or disproportionate treatments.
Novel botanical therapeutic NB-02 effectively treats Alzheimer’s neuropathophysiology in an APP/PS1 mouse model
Authors: Lee Yee Fun , Lariviere Amanda , Russ Alyssa N , Choi Sang-Zin , Bacskai Brian , Kastanenka Ksenia
Published: July 2020

Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder and a major cause of dementia. Some of the hallmarks of AD include presence of amyloid plaques in brain parenchyma, calcium dysregulation within individual neurons, and neuroinflammation. A promising therapeutic would reverse or stymie these pathophysiologies in an animal model of AD. Methods We tested the effect of NB-02, previously known as DA-9803, a novel multimodal therap­eutic, on amyloid deposition, neuronal calcium regulation and neuroinflammation in 8-10 month old APP mice, an animal model of AD.Results In vivo multiphoton microscopy revealed that 2 month-long administration of NB-02 halted amyloid plaque deposition and cleared amyloid in the cortex. Post-mortem analysis verified NB-02-dependent decrease in plaque deposition in the cortex as well as hippocampus. Furthermore, drug treatment reversed neuronal calcium elevations, thus restoring neuronal function. Finally, NB-02 transformed the morphology of astrocytes and microglia to a more phagocytic state, affecting neuroinflammation. Conclusions NB-02 was effective at reversing AD neuropathophysiology in an animal model. Therefore, in addition to serving as a promising preventative agent, NB-02 holds potential as a treatment for AD in the clinic.
Tight Junction-Mediated Morphologic and Adherent Diversities Act on Hematopoietic Fate Induced by OCT4 in human hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Yu Xiaozhen , Sun Pengpeng , Huang Xingang , Chen Hua , Huang Weiqing , Ruan Yingchun , Jiang Weina , Tan Xiaohua , Liu Zhijing
Published: July 2020

Background: Human hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells (hHFMSCs) isolated from hair follicles possess multilineage differentiation potential. OCT4 is a gene critically associated with pluripotency properties. The cell morphology and adhesion of hHFMSCs significantly changed after transduction of OCT4 and two subpopulations emerged, including adherent cells and floating cell. Floating cells cultured in hematopoietic induction medium and stimulated with erythropoetic growth factors could transdifferentiate into mature erythrocytes, whereas adherent cells formed negligible hematopoietic colonies. The aim of this study was to reveal the role of cell morphology and adhesion on erythropoiesis induced by OCT4 in hHFMSCs and to characterize the molecular mechanisms involved.Methods: Floating cell were separated from adherent cell by centrifugation of the upper medium during cell culture. Cell size was observed through flow cytometry and cell adhesion was tested by disassociation and adhesion assays. RNA sequencing was performed to detect genome-wide transcriptomes and identify differentially expressed genes. GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis were performed to analysis the functions and pathways enriched by differentially expressed genes. The expression of tight junction core members was verified by qPCR and Western blot.Results: The overexpression of OCT4 influenced the morphology and adhesion of hHFMSCs. Transcripts in floating cells and adherent cells are quite different. Data analysis showed that upregulated genes in floating cells were mainly related to the pluripotency, germ layer development (including hematopoiesis lineage development), and downregulated genes were mainly related to cell adhesion, cell junctions and the cytoskeleton. Most molecules of the tight junction (TJ) pathway were downregulated and molecular homeostasis of the TJ was disturbed, as CLDNs were disrupted, and JAMs and TJPs were upregulated. The dynamic expression of cell adhesion-related gene E-cadherin and cytoskeleton-related gene ACTN2 might cause different morphology and adhesion. Finally, a regulatory network centered to OCT4 was constructed, which elucidated the TJ pathway critically bridges pluripotency and hematopoiesis in a TJP1-dependent way.Conclusions: Regulations of cell morphology and adhesion via the TJ pathway conducted by OCT4 might modulate hematopoiesis in hHFMSCs, thus developing potential mechanism of erythropoiesis in vitro.
The Challenges and Opportunities of Online Volunteering for COVID-19 Response in Iran: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Seddighi Hamed , Salmani Ibrahim , Ermolaeva Polina , Basheva Olga , Sedeh Mehrab Sharifi
Published: July 2020

Background: The aim of this brief report is to identify the challenges and opportunities of online volunteering to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of the managers of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS).Methods: In this study we have used a qualitative method including semi-structured interviews for investigating the opportunities and challenges of using virtual volunteers. The eligible participants meeting the inclusion criteria for this study were eight IRCS managers who had used online volunteers for COVID-19 pandemic response.Results: Having considered the interviews with IRCS managers, we finally found seven items as opportunities including safety, availability, recruiting more volunteers, cost reduction, participation, geographical scope, and local considerations. Moreover, five items were found as challenges of online volunteering in IRCS including lack of commitment, cultural issues, infrastructure, reimbursement, and volunteer management.Conclusion: Online volunteering is a significant opportunity for humanitarian organizations especially during epidemics like the current COVID-19. Online volunteering for COVID-19 response by the Red Crescent involved a wide range of people including young people, the elderly, people with disabilities and minority groups, and people in rural areas.
A Report on the Tick Burden, Molecular Detection and Phylogenetic Analysis of Anaplasma Marginale in the Blood Samples of Cattle Collected from District Layyah in Punjab (Pakistan)
Authors: Ashraf Sehrish , Parveen Asia , Asif Muhammad , Awais Mian Muhammad , Khan Adil , Aktas Munir , Ozubek Sezayi , Alanazi Abdullah D , Alyousif Mohamed S , Iqbal Furhan
Published: July 2020

Back ground: Anaplasmosis is known as yellow bag or yellow fever and it is a tick borne disease caused by obligate intercellular gram negative bacteria, Anaplasma marginale. Aim: Present study is reporting seasonal prevalence, epidemiology and phylogeny of Anaplasma marginale in three cattle breeds from District Layyah, Southern Punjab, Pakistan. Methods and results: A total of 844 blood samples (Cross = 300, Holstein Friesian = 244, Sahiwal breed = 300) from apparently healthy cattle on seasonal basis were collected along with epidemiological data. Results: Polymerase chain reaction generated 265 base pair amplicon specific for Major surface protein–1b encoding gene of Anaplasma marginale in 8.6% (73/844) of enrolled cattle. Highest prevalence was observed during autumn (18.3%) followed by summer (9.7%) and winter season (7.1%). Holstein Friesian breed was most susceptible to A. marginale infection (13.1%) followed by Sahiwal (7.6%) and cross breed (6%). Representative amplified partial gene sequences of A. marginale were submitted to GenBank (Accession numbers MK032842 and MK032843). Its phylogenetic analysis had shown similarities with sequences submitted by other countries. 37/844 (4.3%) Giemsa stained blood smears were found positive for Anaplasma spp. Analysis of epidemiological factors revealed that female cattle and farm with water supply from pool, farms where other dairy animals and dogs were living with cattle and dogs having ticks load on them had significant association with A. marginale prevalence. It was observed that white blood cell, lymphocytes (%), Monocytes (%) heamatocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration were significantly disturbed in A. marginale positive than negative cattle. Conclusion: We recommend that this PCR protocol should be used for the detection of A. marginale in livestock for their proper diagnosis and treatment.
Colostrum Avoidance Practices and Its Associated Factors Among Mothers of Children Aged Less Than 12 Months in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia, 2019
Authors: Hadona Elias Amaje , W/Hawariat Feleke G/Meskel , Sorrie Muluken Bekele
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Colostrum avoidance is the common nutritional malpractices in developing countries including Ethiopia. Discarding colostrum is the main causes of respiratory disease and diarrheal disease during childhood and contributes to over a million avoidable infant deaths each year and remains a public health problem in developing countries. Despite the fact that it has a negative effect on child health, little is known about the extent of the problem and its contributing factors in South Ethiopia particularly in study area. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of colostrum avoidance practices and associated factors among Mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted at Jinka Town from March 1 to 30, 2019. A total of 420 mothers having children less than 12 months of age were selected by systematic sampling technique. The data were collected by using pretested interviewer administered and semi-structured questionnaires. The data was entered using EPIDATA 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Descriptive statistics, Binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis were done. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI at a p-value < 0.05 was estimated to identify statistically significant variables with colostrum avoidance practices. Results: The prevalence of colostrum avoidance practice was 9.8% [95% CI: (6.9–12.5)]. Delayed initiation of breast feeding [AOR= 9.08(95% CI 4.16-19.83)], Lack of breast feeding counselling [AOR= 2.33(95% CI 1.11-4.87)], Home delivery of index child [AOR= 2.48 (95% CI 1.16-5.27)] and Poor knowledge on breast feeding [AOR=4.55(95% CI 1.95-10.63)] were factors associated with colostrum avoidance practices. Conclusions: Colostrum avoidance practice among mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka town was high. Delayed initiation of Breas feeding, lack of breast feeding counselling, Home delivery and knowledge on breastfeeding feeding practice were factors associated with colostrum avoidance practice. Promoting institutional delivery services and strengthening of breast feeding counselling during antenatal and postnatal care were recommended for the promotion of the nutritional value of colostrum and its health benefits.
Typologies of Family Functioning and 24-Hour Movement Behaviors
Authors: Guerrero Michelle , Barnes Joel , Tremblay Mark , Pulkki-Råback Laura
Published: July 2020

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to use latent profile analysis to identify family typologies characterized by parental acceptance, parental monitoring, and family conflict, and to examine whether such typologies were associated with the number of movement behavior recommendations (i.e., physical activity, screen time, and sleep) met by children. Methods: Data for this cross-sectional observational study were part of the baseline data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Data were collected from September 1, 2016 to September 15, 2018, across 21 study sites in the United States. Participants included 11,875 children aged 9 and 10 years. Results: Results from latent profile analysis showed that children were meaningfully classified into one of five family typologies, ranging from ideal (high acceptance, high monitoring, and low conflict) to poor (medium acceptance, low monitoring, and high conflict) functioning. Children from good (OR= 0.54; 95% CI, 0.39-0.76), average (OR=0.28; 95% CI, 0.20, 0.40), fair (OR=0.24; 95% CI, 0.16, 0.36), and poor (OR=0.19; 95% CI, 0.12-0.29) functioning families were less likely to meet all three movement behavior recommendations compared to children from ideal functioning families. The odds of meeting all recommendations progressively decreased as family functioning worsened. Similar findings and pattern of results were found for meeting ≥2 recommendations and ≥1 recommendation. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of the family environment for promoting healthy movement behaviors among children.
The COVID-19 Process and the Exchange Rate Relation: An Application on Turkey
Authors: Dineri Eda , Çütçü İbrahim
Published: July 2020

The recent shocks in supply and demand in the world are not due to unexpected economic reasons; in fact, they are related to Covid-19 that causes rapidly spreading global health problems and life threats around the world. While the global powers are dealing with the social problems created by Covid-19 pandemic, they should not neglect the economic changes created by this pandemic. The most important of these economic changes in developing countries with high fragility is exchange rates, because exchange rates can directly affect many macroeconomic variables, from inflation to foreign trade, from the balance of payments to interests. In countries with high fragility due to the effect of pandemic, economic uncertainty causes fluctuations in the exchange rate. Is the reason for the change in the exchange rate, the number of cases or economic risks that may occur due to possible health problems?In this study, the impact of the number of new cases and the number of new deaths for the process of Covid-19 pandemic on the exchange rate in Turkey is examined. The daily data consider the number of new cases, the number of new deaths and exchange rate for the period of 16.03.2020–06.05.2020. The first step of the analysis, the stationary of the series is tested by Lee and Strazicich (2003) unıt root test which allowed structural break. Hatemi-J (2008) Cointegration Test that allow two structural breaks and Hacker-Hatemi-J Bootstrap causality test are used in the analysis. In the results of the Hatemi- J (2008) cointegration test, there is a medium and long-term relationship, with under structural breaks between the number of new cases and the number of new deaths and the exchange rate. According to the results of the analysis, it can be concluded that the number of new cases and the number of new deaths have a significant effect on the exchange rate, causing uncertainty in the economy.JEL Classification: I19, F31, C22