bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Markers to Classify and Evaluate Ketosis Onset Diabetes: a Randomized Clinical Trails
Authors: Liu Beiyan , Li Lin , Bai Liwei
Published: June 2021

Background: There are many patients, who start with the symptoms of ketosis or ketoacidosis, but their clinical and genetic characteristics are distinct. In this research, we studied the clinical, immune, and genetic characteristics of ketosis-onset diabetes, and the relationship between the clinical characteristics, anti-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase antibody, and microRNAs.Methods: To study the clinical characteristics, 200 patients with newly onset diabetes mellitus along with ketosis or ketoacidosis were randomly selected. The male population in this study was 60.9%, with ages ranging from 7 to 72 years old, where 27% of the patients’ body mass index was ≥ 25 kg/m2 and the average HbA1c was 10.4 ±1.81%. Simultaneously, 50 healthy people with similar age and gender were chosen as the control group. Patients were divided into four subgroups based on the existing autoimmune antibodies and the preservation of β-cell function. The expression of microRNA-191 (miRNA-191) and microRNA-342 (miRNA-342) in plasma was detected by quantitative fluorescence PCR.Results: The frequency of anti-histidyl-tRNA synthetase antibody in A+ β+ and A+ β- subgroups was significantly higher than that in the other subgroups. There were no significant differences in the concentration of the anti-glycyl-tRNA synthetase antibody between the groups, but the frequency was higher in the A+ subgroup. The expression of miRNA-191 and miRNA-342 in plasma was up-regulated compared to the normal control group. Conclusion: The anti-histidyl and anti-glycyl-tRNA synthetase antibodies can be used as immunological markers to distinguish the subgroups of ketosis-onset diabetes mellitus, where anti-histidyl-tRNA synthetase antibody was more significant, comparatively. The miRNA-191 and miRNA-342 in plasma are related to ketosis-onset diabetes and can be used as biomarkers to predict ketosis-onset diabetes in the future.
Machine Learning based Identification and Classification of Disorders in human Knee Joint - Computational Approach
Authors: A. Balajee , Rajagopal Venkatesh
Published: June 2021

Earlier identification of knee joint pathology helps the therapist to provide the appropriate clinical procedures to control the deteriorating process of arthritis. Beyond usual medical investigations, computational techniques have been used for the diagnosis of knee joint disorder. Among different methodologies, Vibroarthrographic technique is employed to identify knee joint disorder. Machine Learning contains number of classification methods for the given data. A novel technique called Greedy sequential backward feature selection based Radial kernelized least square support vector classification (GSBFS-RKLSSVC) is introduced for accurate detection of knee joint pathology with minimum time. The proposed GSBFS-RKLSSVC technique consists of three processes namely feature selection, feature evaluation and classification. Initially number of VAG signal images are taken from the dataset for detection of knee joint disorder. The relevant feature is selected through the Greedy mutual informative regressed sequential backward selection algorithm to reduce an initial dimensional feature space into a low dimensional feature subspace. Following this the dichotomous logit regression is applied to select the best features and discard others. Therefore, the feature selection process of the proposed GSBFS-RKLSSVC minimizes the time consumption of the knee joint pathology detection. Once the signal features are extracted, RKLSSVC is applied to detect the normal and abnormal VAG signal. Decision boundary is utilized by the classifier to categorize the samples based on the similarity between the training features and testing features. As a result, the accurate classification is obtained with a minimum error rate. The observed result indicates that GSBFS-RKLSSVC achieves higher accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and reduces time than the conventional methods.
Aerobic Exercise Inhibits Inflammatory Response in Atherosclerosis via Sestrin1 Protein
Authors: sun yunfeng , Li ke , wu wei , yang keping
Published: June 2021

Background Aerobic exercise plays an important role in prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis but its role in inflammatory response is not completely clear. Inflammatory response is the main pathological process during occurrence and development stage of atherosclerosis. SESNs are considered as anti-inflammation protein in atherosclerosis. Results In current study, a high expression level of SESN1 is identified under the condition of aerobic exercise, further investigation shows levels of IL-1β/IL-6/TNF-α are significantly suppressed compared to those atherosclerosis mice with no aerobic training. Besides, we find that the activation of NK-κB signaling is impeded. Combine with our previous study, SESN1 is considered as the downstream factor of aerobic exercise which tend to inhibit the activation of inflammatory signaling and result in suppress the expression level of inflammatory factors. Another exciting finding is that MMP9/13 are also suppressed，but the potential mechanism is unclear. Conclusion Overall, present study sheds light on the significance of aerobic exercise for inflammation and stability of plaque through SESN1 may help developing new clinical treatments of atherosclerosis.
Renal Replacement Therapy for Patients Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Multicenter International Survey
Authors: THY Michael , Augustin Pascal , Tran-Dinh Alexy , Montravers Philippe , de Tymowski Christian
Published: June 2021

ObjectivesPatients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) often require renal replacement therapy (RRT). Insertion of a dialysis catheter may be challenging in these patients. Direct connection of RRT lines on an ECMO circuit (DCRE) may help circumvent this problem. However, no guidelines exist on this issue, and various types of practices may exist. This study aimed to describe the practice of RTT in patients on ECMO, including the direct connection of RTT lines on the ECMO circuit (DCRE) as well as the perception and concerns related to this technique.DesignInternational surveySetting.Worldwide diffusion via email.Subject.Professionals involved in the management of ECMOInterventions:Respondents’ characteristics were analyzed. Respondents always or often performing RRT via the ECMO circuit were classified in the ECMO group, and those using a dialysis catheter were classified in the DC group. The two groups were compared regarding their characteristics and their practice in ECMO and RRT. Participants were asked about their perceptions of DCRE and actual problems previously encountered. Measurements and Main Results:From March 2019 to October 2019, 298 participants answered the questionnaire from 46 different countries. Only 28% were working in pediatric departments. Among the 165 participants commonly performing RRT in patients on ECMO, 100 (61%) performed mainly RRT via the ECMO circuit, and 65 (39%) performed RRT via DC. Pediatric practice and a longer experience were the only noticeable characteristics of the ECMO group. The most reported fear regarding DCRE was the risk of air embolism (n=84, 28%), but the most encountered problem was unmanageable pressure alarms in RRT devices.ConclusionThe present study showed significant heterogeneity in RRT practices in patients on ECMO. The lower experience of the DC group, the high rates of fears toward DCRE, and pressure alarm issues suggested that protocols and training may overcome reluctance and technical difficulties. Further research may provide data to back specific guidelines. Take-home messageThe present study showed significant heterogeneity in RRT practices in patients on ECMO showing lower experience, fears and pressure alarm issues as barriers for direct connection of RRT lines on ECMO circuit, suggesting needs for protocols, training and specific guidelines.140-character TweetLow experience, fears and pressure alarm issues as barriers for direct connection of RRT lines on ECMO circuit, suggesting needs for protocols, training and specific guidelines.
Serum Homocysteine, Lipid Profile and BMI as Atherosclerotic Risk Factors in Children with Numerical Chromosomal Aberrations
Authors: Youness Eman R. , El-Daly Sherien M , Abdallah Hanaa Reyad , El-Bassyouni Hala T , Megahed Hisham , Khedr Azzah A , Elhady Marwa , Abuelhamid Walaa A
Published: June 2021

Children with chromosomal disorders are at greater risk for cardiovascular comorbidities. Dyslipidemia and homocysteinemia have been identified to play a role in the pathogenesis of premature atherosclerosis. The current study aimed to explore the association of serum homocysteine level in children with numerical chromosomal disorders (Klinefelter syndrome, Down syndrome, and Turner syndrome) and explore its relation to dyslipidemia among such children. This case control study included 60 children with numerical chromosomal disorders (18 Klinefelter syndrome 22 Down syndrome and 20 Turner syndrome) diagnosed by cytogenetic analysis. In addition, 37 healthy normal weight children were included as control group. Anthropometric assessment was done for all groups including weight, height and body mass index was calculated. Serum level of homocysteine, cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein were measured for all included children. Serum homocysteine level was significantly higher in children with numerical chromosomal disorders in comparison to healthy controls. Serum homocysteine level has significant positive correlation with cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Despite of the significant positive correlation between homocysteine serum levels and body mass index (BMI) in children with numerical chromosomal disorders, there was no significant difference in homocysteine level between children with and without obesity. Regression analysis demonstrated significant association between homocysteinemia and LDL level in children with chromosomal disorders (odd ratio: 1.396; 95% confidence interval: 1.177–1.657). There is significant association between dyslipidemia and homocysteinemia in children with non-mosaic numerical chromosomal disorders that positively correlated with body mass index.
Paediatric Oncology Ward Nurses’ Experiences of Patients’ Deaths in China: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ma Ruo Han , Zhao Xue Ping , Ni Zhi Hong , Xue Xiao Ling
Published: June 2021

Background: Considering cancer death is second only to accidental death in the number of lives claimed each year,nurses in paediatric oncology wards often experience helplessness, sadness, frustration and such other adverse emotions when they witness children’s death due to cancer.However,there is a lack of qualitative studies on nurses who witness the death of children in paediatric oncology wards in China. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nurses in the paediatric oncology wards at three children’s hospitals in Jiangsu,China,between January and June 2019.A total of 22 paediatric oncology ward nurses (18 female and 4male) aged between 26 and 39 years were enrolled. A previously developed and pilot-tested interview guide was used for the interviews. The number of interviews was determined by data saturation.Results: Nurses in paediatric oncology wards have strong stress responses to facing the death of children. They reported experiencing complex psychological feelings and have different coping attitudes. Nursing managers should pay attention to problems faced by nurses in paediatric oncology wards, and take targeted measures in terms of continuing training courses, improving the psychological adaptability of oncology professional nurses, and providing them substantive support.Conclusion: The findings of this study increase the knowledge and understanding regarding a seldom-studied topic in China. Healthcare authorities should recognise and understand the needs of paediatric oncology ward nurses,who often witness the death of children.Appropriate and effective support measures should be planned and implemented for these nurses to maintain their mental health, thus enabling them to better serve patients.
U2AF2 Promote the Proliferation and Migration of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma Cells by Sustaining the Mrna Stability of SNORA21
Authors: Lijuan Gao , Yongshun Chen , Bin Li
Published: June 2021

Background

Esophageal adenocarcinoma has gains predominance with squamous carcinoma moving to a second place in the western world. The 5-year survival rate of patients with esophageal cancer (EC) is still between 15–25%, although the treatment strategies for EC have been improved. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are key players in post-transcriptional events. Particularly, the U2 snRNP auxiliary (U2AF2), as a canonical RBP, has been reported to play an important role in the development, progression, and metastasis of several human cancers. However, the biological role of U2AF2 in the context of malignancies, including EC, has not yet been reported. This study is aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of U2AF2 in esophageal adenocarcinoma cell line.
Methods

The expression level of U2AF2 and SNORA21 was analysed by TCGA database. The expression level of U2AF2 and SNORA21 in esophageal adenocarcinoma cells was determined by Western Blot and RT-qPCR assay. The cell viability and proliferation was detected by CCK8 assay and BrdU incorporation assay. The apoptosis was examined by caspase3 immunocytofluorescense. The protein levels of Bax, Bcl-2 and E-cadherin were explored by Western Blot assay. The interaction between U2AF2 and SNORA21 was predicted by Starbase 3.0 and confirmed by RIP assay. The RNA regulated by U2AF2 was through RNA-seq analysis on the basis of downregulation of U2AF2.
Results

The expression of U2AF2 and SNORA21 was found to be upregulated and served as an unfavourable factor which negatively related with overall survival of esophageal adenocarcinoma patients. Silencing the expression of U2AF2 or SNORA21 could suppress the proliferation and migration of OE19 and OE33 cells and stimulate its apoptosis. Moreover, we identified that the U2AF2 could bind and interact with SNORA21 to sustain its stability. Furthermore, we show that overexpression of SNORA21 could rescue the proliferation inhibition phenotype caused by si-U2AF2.
Conclusion

Our study provides several lines of evidence supporting the intriguing concept that U2AF2 could promote the proliferation of OE19 and OE33 cells by directly targeting SNORA21, which might serve as a novel candidate biomarker and a new target for the treatment of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
SPECT Findings on Neuropsychiatric Symptoms Caused by Nitrous Oxide Abuse
Authors: Wang Li , Yin Lijie , Wang Qian , Wang Renbin , Liu Zunjing , Dong Mingrui , Duan Xiaohui , Zheng Yumin , Hong Wen , Liu Fang , Tie Changle
Published: June 2021

Objective To investigate the clinical, neuropsychological and changes of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) perfusion in patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms caused by nitrous oxide (N2O) abuse. Methods Sixteen patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms caused by nitrous oxide abuse were recruited. 25-30mci 99mTc-ECD was administered intravenously. the SPECT/CT images were collected with low-energy and high-resolution collimator. The region uptake statistics of different brain regions of interest between patients with N2O abuse and normal people of the same age group from background software database were calculated automatically. Results The clinical manifestations of the 16 patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms were mood lability, anxiety, hallucination, delusion, Agitated, Confusion, and other psychiatric symptoms. In addition, 15 patients of them also complained their memory decline. 14 patients manifested as numbness or paresthesias. 14 patients developed limb weakness, whose motor impairments were more severe in lower limbs than upper limbs. 8 patients also accompanied by urinary and defecation disturbance. Neuropsychological examination: BPRS score was 54.69±11.48, the score of HAMD was 30.00 ± 11.06, the score of HAMA was 18.06 ± 5.77, the score of MMSE was28.06 ± 2.29, and the score of MoCA was 25.06 ± 3.40. SPECT showed hypoperfusion in the frontal lobe and the temporal lobe, which consistent with the clinical findings. Conclusion It was the first study to demonstrate obvious effect of N2O abuse on CBF in patients with neuropsychiatric symptom. CBF perfusion imaging is helpful to detect the changes of local brain functional activity in patients with N2O abuse.
GPR120 Prevents Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Progression by Sustaining The Mucosal Barrier Integrity
Authors: Rubbino Federica , Garlatti Valentina , Garzarelli Valeria , Massimino Luca , Spanò Salvatore , Iadarola Paolo , Cagnone Maddalena , Giera Martin , Heijink Marieke , Guglielmetti Simone , Arena Vincenzo , Malesci Alberto , Laghi Luigi , Danese Silvio , Vetrano Stefania Stefania
Published: June 2021

Background&Aims: GPR120 (encoded by FFAR4 gene) is a receptor for long chain fatty acids, activated by ω-3 PUFAs, and expressed in many cell types. Its role in the context of colorectal cancer (CRC) is still puzzling with many controversial evidences. Here, we explored the involvement of epithelial GPR120 in the CRC development. Methods: Both in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to mimic the conditional deletion of the receptor from gut epithelium. Intestinal permeability and integrity of mucus layer were assessed by using Evans blue dye and immunofluorescence for MUC-2 protein, respectively. Microbiota composition, presence of lipid mediators and short chain fatty acids were analyzed in the stools of conditional GPR120 and wild type (WT) mice. Incidence and grade of tumors were evaluated in all groups of mice before and after colitis-associated cancer. Finally, GPR120 expression was analyzed in 9 human normal tissues, 9 adenomas, and 17 primary adenocarcinomas. Results: Our work for the first time highlight the role of the receptor in the progression of colorectal cancer. We observed that the loss of epithelial GPR120 in the gut results into increased intestinal permeability, microbiota translocation and dysbiosis, which turns into hyperproliferation of epithelial cells, likely through the activation of β -catenin signaling. Therefore, the loss of GPR120 represents an early event of CRC, but avoid its progression as invasive cancer. Conclusion: these results demonstrate that the epithelial GPR120 receptor is essential to maintain the mucosal barrier integrity and to prevent CRC developing. Therefore, our data pave the way to GPR120 as an useful marker for the phenotypic characterization of CRC lesions and as new potential target for CRC prevention.
High Quality-Factor Dual-Band Fano Resonances Induced by Bound States in The Continuum Using A Planar Nanohole Slab
Authors: Sang Tian , Mi Qing , Pei Yao , Yang Chaoyu , Li Shi , Wang Yueke , Ma Bin
Published: June 2021

In photonics, it is essential to achieve high quality (Q)-factor resonances to enhance light-mater interactions for improving performances of optical devices. Herein, we demonstrate that high Q-factor dual-band Fano resonances can be achieved by using a planar nanohole slab (PNS) based on the excitation of bound states in the continuum (BICs). By shrinking or expanding the tetramerized holes of the superlattice of the PNS, symmetry-protected BICs can be excited and the locations of Fano resonances as well as their Q-factors can be flexibly tuned. Physical mechanisms for the dual-band Fano resonances can be interpreted as the resonant couplings between the electric-toroidal dipoles or the magnetic-toroidal dipoles based on the far-field multiple decompositions and the near-field distributions of the superlattice. The dual-band Fano resonances of the PNS possess polarization independent feature, they can be survived even the geometric parameters of the PNS are significantly altered, making them more suitable for potential applications.
miR-218-5p in Endometrial Microenvironment Prevents the Migration of Ectopic Endometrial Stromal Cells by Inhibiting LASP1
Authors: Zhang Ziyu , Wang Yaoqing , Zeng Liqin , Yu Kaihui , Wang Yuanqin , Luo Yong , Liu Faying , Yang Bicheng , Zou Yang , Wang Liqun , Huang Ouping
Published: June 2021

Our previous two-dimensional electrophoresis experiments showed that the expression of LASP1 in patients with endometriosis was significantly higher than that of control endometrium. However, the molecular mechanism by which LASP1 is regulated in endometriosis/adenomyosis is unknown. Herein, qPCR was performed to analysis the expression levels of LASP1 and miR-218-5p between EMs cells and control cells. Immunofluorescence in situ hybridization was carried out to measure the expression level of miR-218-5p in ectopic endometrium versus normal endometrium. After miR-218-5p mimic or inhibitor were transfected, the transwell experiment was carried out to see the effect of miR-218-5p on the migration of ESCs. EdU was used to measure cell proliferation rate. Dual-luciferase reporter assay (DR) was used to verify the binding of hsa-miR-218-5p to the 3'UTR of LASP1. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis were carried out to identify the protein expression pattern of LASP1 and EMT markers in endometrial tissue. Our results show that high expression of LASP1 is related to the development of EMs. miR-218-5p inhibits the expression level of LASP1 by binding the 3'UTR region of LASP1. miR-218-5p is negatively correlated with the expression of LASP1 protein in endometriosis cells and tissues. Without affecting proliferation, miR-218-5p can increase the migration of ESCs. miR-218-5p is mainly secreted from blood vessels and expressed in the muscle layer around the endometrium. miR-218 also inhibits mesenchymal transition of epithelial cells by inhibiting the expression of Vimentin.
The Image Presentation of Inflammatory Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma Mimic Primary Cholangiocarcinoma in Epstein-Barr Virus Prevalent Country: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chao WuPo , Chen Yi-Chan , Yang Cheng-Han , Soong Rueyshyang
Published: June 2021

Background: Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) is a very rare malignant soft tissue tumor. About half of the cases occurred in lymph node, mostly around neck. The uncommon inflammatory variant of FDCS is an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated neoplasm. It was first introduced as Inflammatory pseudotumor-like FDC in 2001. Few cases had been found in liver and spleen as primary tumor. It mimicked the presentation of cholangiocarcinoma in this case and few had been reported as primary liver tumor yet. Case report: We represent a 53-year-old man who was referred to our department with a liver tumor. The tumor was accidently found during health exam at lateral segment, which was suspected to be cholangiocarcinoma on Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI). The liver segment was complete resected via laparoscopic hepatectomy. The tumor turned out to be inflammatory FDCS. The tumor specimen was margin free. No recurrence was detected at a 12-month follow-upClinical Discussion: Inflammatory FDCS often found in liver and spleen. Taiwan was EBV high-prevalence country, but the occurrence seemed not related. Current management as FDCS, with radiation therapy and chemotherapy if total resection was not feasible.Conclusion: Inflammatory FDCS is a rare malignant tumor in abdomen. Complete resection represents favorable outcome.
Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Refugee Settlements in Uganda, 2016 - 2019: Lessons Learnt
Authors: Ario Alex Riolexus , Barigye Emily Atuheire , Nkonwa Innocent Harbert , Ogwal Jimmy , Opio Denis Nixon , Bulage Lilian , Kadobera Daniel , Okello Paul Edward , Kwagonza Leocadia Warren , Kizito Susan , Kwesiga Benon , Kasozi Julius
Published: June 2021

BackgroundCivil wars in the Great Lakes region resulted in massive displacement of people to neighboring countries including Uganda, with associated humanitarian emergencies. Appropriate disease surveillance enables timely detection and response to outbreaks. We describe evaluation of the public health surveillance system in refugee settlements in Uganda and document lessons learnt.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey using the US CDC Updated Guidelines for Evaluating Public Health Surveillance Systems in four refugee settlements in Uganda i.e., Bidibidi, Adjumani, Kiryandongo and Rhino Camp. Using semi-structured questionnaires, key informant and focus group discussion guides, we interviewed health facility in-charges, key personnel and village health teams from 4 districts, 53 health facilities and 112 villages.ResultsAll health facilities assessed had key surveillance staff; 60% were trained on IDSR and most village health teams were trained on disease surveillance. Case detection was at 55%; facilities lacked standard case definitions (SCDs) and were using parallel Implementing Partner (IP) driven reporting system. Recording was at 79% and reporting was at 81%. Data analysis and interpretation was at 49%. Confirmation of outbreaks and events was at 76%. Preparedness was at 72% and response was at 34%. Feedback was at 82%. Recording, reporting, preparedness, feedback and confirmation of outbreaks and events were highly achieved, and capacity to evaluate and improve the system was moderately achieved. There were low scores in capacity to detect, respond and analyse data.ConclusionPublic health surveillance system had high sensitivity, timeliness and predictive value positive. It was simple, acceptable with fair data quality attributes. It was less flexible, less stable with low representativeness. The system had good recording, reporting, preparedness, feedback and confirmation of outbreaks and events. The capacity for detection, response and data analysis and interpretation was low. Lessons learnt were: IPs offer tremendous support to surveillance; training of surveillance staff on IDSR maintains effective surveillance functions; supplies of tools, personnel etc. should be planned and executed; functionalization of district teams ensures achievement of surveillance functions and attributes; regular support supervision of health facilities necessary; harmonization of reporting improves surveillance functions and attributes; appropriation of funds to districts to support refugee settlements is complementary.
Quality of Life Following Two Different Techniques of an Open Ventral Hernia Repair for Large Hernias: a Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Antic Andrija , Kmezic Stefan , Nikolic Vladimir , Radenkovic Dejan , Markovic Velibor , Pejovic Ilija , Aleksic Lidija , Loncar Zlatibor , Antic Svetlana , Kovac Jelena , Markovic-Denic Ljiljana
Published: June 2021

Background: We compare the health-related quality of life (QoL) of patients with incision hernias before and after surgery with two different techniques.Methods: In this prospective randomized study, the study population consisted of all patients who underwent the first surgical incisional hernias repair during the 1-year study period. Patients who met the criteria for inclusion in the study were randomized into two groups: the first group consisted of patients operated by an open Rives sublay technique, and the second group included patients operated by a segregation component technique. The change in the quality of life before and 6 months after surgery was assessed using two general (Short form of SF-36 questionnaires and European Quality of Life Questionnaire - EQ-5D-3L), and three specific hernia questionnaires (Hernia Related Quality of Life Survey-HerQles, Eura HS Quality of Life Scale - EuraHS QoL, and Carolinas Comfort Scale – CCS).Results: A total of 93 patients were included in the study. Patients operated on by the Rives technique had a better role physical score before surgery, according to the SF-36 tool, although this was not found after surgery. The postoperative Qol measured with each scale of all questionnaires was significantly better after surgery. Comparing two groups of patients after surgery, only the pain domain of the EuraHS Qol questionnaire was worse in patients operated by a segregation component technique.Conclusion: Both techniques improve the quality of life after surgery. Generic QoL questionnaires showed no difference in the quality of life compared to repair technique but specific hernia-related questionnaires showed differences.
Identification of a ZC3H12D-Regulated Competing Endogenous RNA Network for Prognosis of Lung Adenocarcinoma at Single-Cell Level
Authors: Chen Wenhan , Guo Zhifeng , Wu Jingyang , Lin Guofu , Chen Shaohua , Lin Qinhui , Yang Jiansheng , Xu Yuan , Zeng Yiming
Published: June 2021

Objective To identify hub genes from the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and to explore their potential function on prognosis of patients from a single-cell perspective.Methods We performed RNA-sequencing of LUAD to construct ceRNA regulatory network, integrating with public databases to identify the vital pathways related to patients’ prognosis and to reveal the expression level of hub genes under different conditions, the functional enrichment of co-expressed genes and their potential immune-related mechanisms.Results ZC3H12D-hsa-miR-4443-ENST00000630242 axis was found to be related with LUAD. Lower ZC3H12D expression was significantly associated with shorter overall survival (OS) of patients (HR=2.007, P<0.05), and its expression was higher in early-stage patients, including T1 (P<0.05) and N0 (P<0.05). Additionally, ZC3H12D expression was higher in immune cells displayed by single-cell RNA-sequencing data, especially in Treg cells of lung cancer and CD8 T cells, B cells and CD4 T cells of LUAD. In the brain metastasized, the expression of ZC3H12D in macrophages was relatively abundant. The functional enrichment analysis showed that the co-expressed genes mainly played a role in lymphocyte activation and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. In addition, ZC3H12D was associated with multiple immune cells and immune molecules, including immune checkpoints CTLA4, CD96 and TIGIT.Conclusion ZC3H12D-hsa-miR-4443-ENST00000630242 ceRNA network was identified in LUAD. ZC3H12D could affect the survival and prognosis of patients by regulating mRNA, miRNA, lncRNA, immune cells and immune molecules. Therefore, it may serve as a vital predictive marker and could be regarded as a potential therapeutic target for LUAD in the future.
Mendelization and Molecular Mapping of a Large-effect QTL Conferring Durable Adult-plant Resistance to Stripe Rust in a Chinese Wheat Landrace ‘Gaoxianguangtoumai’
Authors: Wang Yuqi , Liang Fengying , Guan Fangnian , Yao Fangjie , Li Long , Zhao Xuyang , Duan Luyao , Wu Yu , Li Hao , Li Wei , Jiang Qiantao , Wei Yuming , Ma Jian , Qi Pengfei , Deng Mei , Zheng Youliang , Kang Houyang , Jiang Yunfeng , Chen Guoyue
Published: June 2021

The Chinese wheat landrace ‘Gaoxianguangtoumai’ (GX) has exhibited a high degree of adult-plant resistance (APR) to stripe rust in field environments for more than a decade. To reveal the genetic basis for APR to stripe rust in GX, a set of 249 F6:8 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) was developed from a cross between GX and the susceptible cultivar ‘Taichung 29’. The parents and RILs were evaluated for disease severity at the adult-plant stage in field environments by artificial inoculation with the currently predominant Chinese Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici races during three cropping seasons, and genotyped using the Wheat 55K single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array to construct a genetic map with 1,871 SNP markers. Two stable APR quantitative trait loci (QTL), QYr.GX-2AS and QYr.GX-7DS from GX, were detected on chromosomes 2AS and 7DS, which explained 15.5–27.0% and 9.6–15.6% of the total phenotypic variation, respectively. Compared with published genes and QTL, QYr.GX-7DS is likely Yr18, whereas QYr.GX-2AS is probably novel. Haplotype analysis revealed that QYr.GX-2AS is likely to be rare which present in 5.3% of the 325 surveyed Chinese wheat landraces. By analyzing a near-isogenic line population, QYr.GX-2AS was further mapped to an interval with a physical distance of about 1.37 Mb and co-segregated with a Kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) marker. Furthermore, three tightly linked KASP markers were highly polymorphic among 109 Chinese wheat cultivars. The short physical interval and tightly linked KASP markers developed in this study will facilitate marker-assisted selection and map-based cloning of QYr.GX-2AS.
Optimizing Cisplatin Delivery to Triple-negative Breast Cancer through Novel EGFR Aptamer-conjugated Polymeric Nanovectors
Authors: Agnello Lisa , Tortorella Silvia , d'Argenio Annachiara , Carbone Clarissa , Camorani Simona , Locatelli Erica , Auletta Luigi , Sorrentino Domenico , Fedele Monica , Zannetti Antonella , Franchini Mauro Comes , Cerchia Laura
Published: June 2021

Background: Management of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is still challenging because of its aggressive clinical behavior and limited targeted treatment options. Cisplatin represents a promising chemotherapeutic compound in neoadjuvant approaches and in the metastatic setting, but its use is limited by scarce bioavailability, severe systemic side effects and drug resistance. Novel site-directed aptamer-based nanotherapeutics have the potential to overcome obstacles of chemotherapy. In this study we investigated the tumor targeting and the anti-tumorigenic effectiveness of novel cisplatin-loaded and aptamer-decorated nanosystems in TNBC.Methods: Nanotechnological procedures were applied to entrap cisplatin at high efficacy into polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) that were conjugated on their surface with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) selective and cell-internalizing CL4 aptamer to improve targeted therapy. Internalization into TNBC MDA-MB-231 and BT-549 cells of aptamer-decorated PNPs, loaded with BODIPY505-515, was monitored by confocal microscopy using EGFR-depleted cells as negative control. Tumor targeting and biodistribution was evaluated by fluorescence reflectance imaging upon intravenously injection of Cyanine7-labeled nanovectors in nude mice bearing subcutaneous MDA-MB-231 tumors. Cytotoxicity of cisplatin-loaded PNPs toward TNBC cells was evaluated by MTT assay and the antitumor effect was assessed by tumor growth experiments in vivo and ex vivo analyses.Results: We demonstrate specific, high and rapid uptake into EGFR-positive TNBC cells of CL4-conjugated fluorescent PNPs which, when loaded with cisplatin, resulted considerably more cytotoxic than the free drug and nanovectors either unconjugated or conjugated with a scrambled aptamer. Importantly, animal studies showed that the CL4-equipped PNPs achieve significantly higher tumor targeting efficiency and enhanced therapeutic effects, without any signs of systemic toxicity, compared with free cisplatin and untargeted PNPs.Conclusion: Our study proposes novel and safe drug-loaded targeted nanosystems for EGFR-positive TNBC with excellent potential for the application in cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Lower Limbs Axonal Neuropathy in Polyarteritis Nodosa with Onset of Neuropathic Symptoms
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhou Xiaomeng , Tian Yao , Lv Ping , Song Xueqin , Liu Yaling , Dong Hui
Published: June 2021

Objective

The retrospective study aimed to investigate the most common electrophysiological changes in patients with polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) of peripheral neuropathy onset and supply some clinical data to neurologists to pay attention to PAN.
Methods

We reviewed the records of all PAN patients with peripheral neuropathy as the initial symptom who attended The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University from December 2019 to December 2020. Finally, ten patients and thirteen healthy controls were clinical and electrophysiologically investigated in our study.
Results

Disease onset was subacute or acute style, with asymmetric clinical onset. Nine patients (90%) presented clinical onset from lower limbs, one (10%) from both lower and upper limbs. Symptoms of distal limbs were more severe than those of proximal ones in seven patients (70%). Nerve conduction studies revealed motor and sensory axonal neuropathy with a predilection for peroneal and sural nerves in the lower limbs.
Conclusions

Asymmetric motor and sensory axonal neuropathy, especially severe involvement of lower and distal limbs is the most electrophysiological changes in patients with PAN of peripheral neuropathy onset, which is consistent with clinical manifestation.
Unravelling Consensus Genomic Regions Conferring Leaf Rust Resistance in Wheat via Meta-QTL Analysis
Authors: Amo Aduragbemi , Soriano Jose Miguel
Published: June 2021

Leaf rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia triticina Erikss (Pt), is a destructive disease affecting wheat and a threat to food security. Developing resistant varieties represents a useful method of disease control, and thus, understanding the genetic basis for leaf rust resistance is required. To this end, a comprehensive bibliographic search for leaf rust resistance quantitative trait loci (QTLs) was performed, and 393 QTLs were collected from 50 QTL mapping studies. Afterwards, a consensus map with a total length of 4567 cM consisting of different types of markers (SSR, DArT, Chip-based SNP markers and SNP markers from GBS) was used for QTL projection, and meta-QTL analysis was performed on 320 QTLs. A total of 75 genetic map positions (gmQTLs) were discovered and refined to 15 high confidence mQTLs (hcmQTLs). The candidate genes discovered within the hcmQTL interval were then checked for differential expression using data from three transcriptome studies, resulting in 92 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The expression of these genes in various leaf tissues during wheat development was explored. This study provides insight into leaf rust resistance in wheat and thereby provides an avenue for developing resistant varieties by incorporating the most important hcmQTLs.
The environmental niche of soil bacterial, archaeal, fungal and protist communities differ along edaphic and topoclimatic gradients in the Alps
Authors: Malard Lucie A , Mod Heidi K , Guex Nicolas , Broennimann Olivier , Yashiro Erika , Lara Enrique , Mitchell Edward A. D. , Niculita-Hirzel Helene , Guisan Antoine
Published: June 2021

BackgroundThe niche concept describes the range of conditions supporting the establishment and persistence of species in the environment. Although widely used in ecology, it has not been often applied to microbes, for which comparative niche analyses are still lacking. Yet, quantifying the niche of microbial taxa is necessary to forecast how taxa and the communities they compose might respond to environmental changes. In this study, we identified important topoclimatic, edaphic, spatial and biotic drivers of the alpha and beta diversity of bacterial, archaeal, fungal and protist communities. Then, we established a method to calculate the niche breadth and position of each taxon along environmental gradients to determine whether microorganisms have distinct environmental niches. ResultsFor all microbial groups, edaphic properties were identified as the most important drivers of both community diversity and composition. Protists presented the largest niche breadths, followed by bacteria and archaea, with fungi displaying the smallest. Niche breadth generally decreased towards environmental extremes, especially along edaphic gradients, suggesting increased specialisation of all microbial taxa in highly selective environments. ConclusionIn this study, we showed that microorganisms have well defined niches, as do macro-organisms, and that these likely drive part of the observed spatial patterns of community variations, but with notable differences among taxonomic groups. Applying the niche concept more widely to microbial ecology should open many novel perspectives, especially to tackle global change challenges.
Liver Stiffness Assessed by Real-Time Two-dimensional Shear Wave Elastography Predicts Hypersplenism in Patients with Wilson’s Disease: A Prospective Study
Authors: Wang Jiajia , Hu Minxia , Zhu Qiang , Sun Lanting
Published: June 2021

Background To explore the value of liver stiffness assessed by two-dimensional real-time shear wave elastography (2D-SWE）in predicting the occurrence of hypersplenism in patients diagnosed with Wilson’s disease (WD). Methods A total of 90 WD patients were enrolled in this prospective study between May 2018 and December 2018. Clinical data and ultrasound imaging including 2D-SWE liver stiffness of WD patients as baseline data were collected. Patients were followed up for 24 months, or patients developed hypersplenism after enrollment. Risk factors for hypersplenism were determined using cox regression and receiver operating characteristic curve. Results Twenty-night (32.2%) patients were found developed hypersplenism. The age, the diameter of portal vein, and the liver stiffness were independent risk factors associated with hypersplenism in WD. The cutoff value of liver stiffness for predicting hypersplenism was 10.45 kPa, with sensitivity and specificity of 75.9% and 73.8%, respectively. When patients were divided into two groups according to liver stiffness ≥10.45 kPa or <10.45 kPa, the incidence of hypersplenism were 57.9% vs. 13.5% (P<0.001), and the median time between the enrollment and the development of hypersplenism was 15 months vs. 22 months (P<0.001) for the two groups, respectively. Conclusion The liver stiffness measured by 2D-SWE was a reliable predictor of hypersplenism in WD patients. Dynamic monitoring WD patients using 2D-SWE is crucial for the early diagnosis of hypersplenism.
The Relationship Between Sunshine Duration And Air Temperature In Poland In The Face Of Contemporary Climate Change
Authors: Matuszko Dorota , Bartoszek Krzysztof , Soroka Jakub
Published: June 2021

The aim of the work is to characterize the trends of sunshine duration (SDU) and air temperature, which may help understand the mechanism of contemporary climate change and explain its causes. The daily totals of SDU and daily data on air temperature from the years 1971–2019, from 25 synoptic stations in Poland are the basic source data. There was a growing trend in both SDU and air temperature. The series of records of the two variables showed that the points of change in the level of stabilization of the value of SDU and air temperature are close to each other, and confirm known in the literature “global dimming” and “global brightening” periods. The linear regression model confirmed that sunshine duration explains well the variability of, and increase in day-time air temperature in Poland in the April-September period. In turn, changes in sunshine duration during winter have no impact on air temperature trends.
CDH1 and CTNNA1 Genetic Screening in Tunisian Patients with Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Carcinoma
Authors: AISSA-HAJ Jihenne BEN , Kabbage Maria , Othmen Houcemeddine , Saulnier Patrick , Ferah Azer , Jaballah-Gabteni Amira , Medhioub Mouna , Khsiba Amel , Maaloul Afifa , Belfkih Houda , Touinsi Hassen , Nasr Sonia Ben , Hamzaoui Lamine , Chalbi Emna , Abdelhak Sonia , Boubaker Mohamed Samir , Azzouz Mousaddak , Rouleau Etienne
Published: June 2021

Background: Mutational screening of the CDH1 gene is a standard treatment for patients who meet the criteria for Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer (HDGC). In this framework, the classification of variants found in this gene is a crucial step for the clinical management of patients at high risk for HDGC. The aim of this study was to identify CDH1 as well as CTNNA1 mutation profiles predisposing to HDGC from Tunisia. Methods: Thirty four cases were included for this purpose with a mean age at diagnosis of 48 years old. We performed Sanger Sequencing for the entire coding sequence of both genes and MLPA (Multiplex Ligation Probe Amplification) assay to investigate large rearrangements of the CDH1 gene. Results: As a result, three cases (8.82%) carried probably pathogenic variants in the CDH1 gene. These variants involves a novel splice alteration, a missense located in exon 14 detected by Sanger Sequencing and a large rearrangement detected by MLPA assay.Conclusion: Our results suggest that the CDH1 p.G761R variant is probably pathogenic and involved in the conformational space shift of the protein. Molecular modeling analysis highlights a putative influence on the conformational properties of the Juxta-Membrane Domain core (JMD) that could result in destabilizing the protein-protein complexes and therefore impacting the downstream pathways. Also, a large deletion from the 5' locus including exons 1 and 2 of the CDH1 gene implicating the signal peptide and a part of the precursor domain of the protein. These findings highlight the critical importance of screening for large CDH1 rearrangements as well as mutations for the management of HDGC families and individuals at high risk for more personalised medicine. We therefore suggest a revision of the status of p.G761R mutation from Variant of Unknown Significance (VUS) to likely pathogenic.
Verification of the Axle Load Spectra Databases Using Stationary and Portable Weight-in-Motion Devices in Overload Corridors of East Texas
Authors: Morovatdar Ali , Ashtiani Reza S.
Published: June 2021

Axle Load Spectra (ALS) data collected from the Portable Weight-in-Motion (P-WIM) devices, provides the primary Mechanistic-Empirical (ME) traffic data input for optimal and accurate pavement design and analysis. Reliable readings from the P-WIM devices are the key factors that contribute to the accuracy of the analysis results. Therefore, this study was aimed to accurately assess the reliability and quality of the traffic data directly derived from the field data collection efforts. To accomplish this objective, the authors initially deployed P-WIM devices to US281 highway as a representative site in Texas overload corridors to collect the traffic data. The results were synthesized to compile the site-specific axle load spectra database, comprising of traffic information on the axle weights, vehicle classifications, and axle configurations. Subsequently, to assess the reliability of the collected data, P-WIM achieved traffic data were contrasted with those captured by the stationary WIM located at the vicinity of the evaluated site, using the available databases. Comparative analysis results indicated that traffic characterizations using the two WIM systems led to comparable outcomes, validating the accuracy and reliability of the P-WIM data measurements in the field. Additionally, as a practical means to investigate the quality of the recorded data, the longevity of the P-WIM piezo-sensors in several sites with different traffic patterns was investigated. Hence, the deterioration of the calibration factors over the operational life of the installed piezo-electric sensors in the field was analyzed. The post-processed results revealed that the piezo-electric sensors sustained substantial damage after nearly 37 days of operation in the field. Consequently, proper quantification of the ALS should include cross-validation assessments, as well as continuous evaluations of the calibration factors throughout the P-WIM data collection process to achieve good-quality, accurate, and reliable traffic data.
CANCER PRIMITIF DU VAGIN ET GROSSESSE: A PROPOS DUN CAS ET REVUE DE LITTERATURE
Authors:   Service De Gynecologie-Obstetrique, CHU El Harouchi Casablanca., Azery A. El , Moukhliss S. ,   Service De Gynecologie-Obstetrique, CHU El Harouchi Casablanca., Bouab M. ,   Faculte De Medecine Et De Pharmacie, Universite Hassan II, Casablanca., Lamrissi A. ,   Faculte De Medecine Et De Pharmacie, Universite Hassan II, Casablanca., Bouhya S. ,   Faculte De Medecine Et De Pharmacie, Universite Hassan II, Casablanca.
Published: June 2021

Le cancer primitif du vagin est rare. Il represente 1 a 2% des cancers gynecologiques et touche essentiellement la femme menopausee. Son association avec la grossesse est exceptionnelle (1). La decision dinitier ou differer le traitement est delicate. A travers notre cas collige au sein du service et une revue de litterature, nous soulignons les caracteristiques diagnostiques et therapeutiques de cette entite.