bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Methylation-Driven Genes Prognosis Signature and Immune Microenvironment in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Tan Mingzi , Wang Shengtan , Li Feifei , Xu Haoya , Gao Jian , Zhu Liancheng
Published: October 2021

Background

Aberrant gene methylation has been implicated in the development and progression of tumors. We aimed to identity methylation driven genes involved in EOC to establish a prognostic signature for patients with EOC.
Methods

The methylation, RNA expression and clinical data of EOC patients were downloaded from UCSC Xena website. The “MethylMix” R package was employed to identify the methylation driven genes (MDGs), GO and KEGG analyses were performed to identify the biological functions of the identified genes, univariate, LASSO, and multivariate analyses were carried out to reveal key prognostic genes. Combined with clinical parameters, a prognostic risk nomogram model was established, and its predictive value was internally evaluated using AUC curves and externally verified in the GEO database.
Results

111 differentially expressed MDGs were identified, among which six (SLC9A1, MARVELD1, PI3, MFAP4, MSX1, IL18BP) were selected to establish a prognostic risk scoring model. Results of univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that the risk score model was an independent risk factor for EOC. Combined with clinical parameters, a nomogram was constructed, which showed good predictive performance as evidenced by AUC values. The risk scores and the nomogram were externally verified using GSE26193 and GSE53963 datasets. Analysis of mRNA levels of the six genes in OVCAR3 before and after DAC treatment revealed that DAC inhibited the methylation of six genes, thereby increasing mRNA levels of the six genes. GSEA analysis show that associated with the 6 MDGs in the two risk score model groups signaling pathways are closely related to tumor invasion and metastasis. There are significant differences between the two risk score model groups in terms of immune function, check point and TMB.
Conclusions

We identified and verified 6 MDGs that are closely related to the prognosis of ovarian cancer. A prognostic risk score model and nomogram for predicting the prognosis of EOC were constructed based on the six MDGs. It can also effectively reflect the immune environment and immunotherapy response of EOC. These MDGs have great significance to the implementation of individualized treatment and disease monitoring of EOC patients.
The Correlation of EMT-related Genes in the Pathogenesis of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Li Lian-Gang , Cai Hangqierang , Zhou Xiao-Bo , Zhang Lan , Jiu Tai , Liu Zhi-Bo , Hui Fang , Tuo Ya-Jun , Jiang Jun
Published: October 2021

Purpose: To analyze the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT)-related genes in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Methods: Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples were collected from patients diagnosed with NSCLC, COPD, and COPD complicated with NSCLC. RNA from cells was extracted with Trizol reagent. Differential genes were screened and validated using the PCR Array and qRT-PCR, respectively.Results: The expressions of ITGB1, VIM, and MMP-9 were higher in the NSCLC group compared to the COPD group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expressions of ITGB1, VIM, MMP-9, and Notch1 were higher, and the expression of KRT14 was lower in the complicated group compared to the NSCLC group (P<0.05).In the NSCLC subgroup, MMP-9 and Notch1 were highly expressed in the lung adenocarcinoma group (P < 0.05) compared to the squamous cell lung carcinoma group.Conclusions: The upregulation of ITGB1, VIM, MMP-9, and Notch1 and downregulation of KRT14 might be closely related to the occurrence and development of NSCLC, mainly lung adenocarcinoma.
Chemical basis underline the bioactivity fortification of licorice by honey-frying due to the natural deep eutectic solvent characteristics of honey
Authors: Kong Shasha , Li Pengyue , Verpoorte Robert , Wang Jia , Zhu Chao , Dai Yuntao , Chen Shilin
Published: October 2021

Background

Honey has been widely used in medicine plants processing since ancient times. Honey-frying of herbal medicine is a well-known treatment in Chinese medicine. It has been reported that honey-frying can improve the immunomodulatory efficacy of licorice. However, it is still unknown why honey-frying improves the immunomodulatory activity of licorice. And our previous research demonstrated that honey has natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) characteristics. NADES is a kind of solvent with broad polarity range and has attracted extensive attention of scholars in different fields. In the present study, we investigated chemical basis underline the possible potentiation of honey-frying on licorice to elucidate its chemical mechanism.
Methods

Firstly, immunological experiments were conducted to investigate whether the honey-processing could enhance the immunomodulatory efficacy of licorice. Then, the synergistic mechanism of honey-processed licorice was explored based on cell biological activity test, chemical composition test, bioavailability test, and Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectra.
Results

Pharmacological experiment verified that honey-processing enhanced the immunomodulatory efficacy of licorice. Moreover, honey increased the total flavonoid and polysaccharide contents in licorice decoction, improved the thermal stability and oral bioavailability of certain pharmacologically active constituents, and augmented their overall immunostimulatory functions. Similar effects of honey were also observed with NADES. The above effects are due to multiple molecular interactions between active compounds and sugar molecules of NADES.
Conclusion

These findings indicate that the biological activities of medicinal plants might be fortified by NADES/honey in the processing of the plant material. At the meantime, these findings provide theoretical and empirical basis for potential novel applications of honey or other NADESs at augmenting the health-promoting effects of medicinal plants.
Association of Plasma Complement System With Brain Structure Deficits in Bipolar and Major Depressive Disorders
Authors: Yu Hua , Ni Peiyan , Tian Yang , Zhao Liansheng , Li Mingli , Li Xiaojing , Wei Wei , Wei Jinxue , Du Xiangdong , Wang Qiang , Guo Wanjun , Deng Wei , Ma Xiaohong , Coid Jeremy , Li Tao
Published: October 2021

Objective Inflammation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD). However, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are poorly understood. This study aimed to examine whether the dysregulation of complement components contributes to brain structure deficits in BD and MDD patients. Methods A total of 52 BD patients, 35 MDD patients, and 53 mentally healthy controls were recruited from the inpatient and outpatient departments of West China Hospital of Sichuan University. The human complement panel 2-immunology multiplex assay was used to measure the levels of complement C1q, C3, C3b, C4, factor B, factor H, and properdin. Whole brain-based comparison was performed to investigate differences in gray matter volume and cortical thickness among the BD, MDD, and control groups, and relationships were explored between neuroanatomical differences and levels of complement components.Results The gray matter volume in the medial orbital frontal cortex (mOFC) and middle cingulum decreased in both patient groups, while the cortical thickness of the left precentral and left superior frontal gyrus was affected differently. Log10-transformed concentrations of C1q, C4, factor B, factor H, and properdin were higher in both patient groups than in controls, while levels of C1q, factor H, and properdin showed a significant negative correlation with gray matter volume in the mOFC at the voxel-wise level.Conclusion Greater inflammation in mOFC was observed in BD and MDD patients than in controls. Structural deficits in both patient groups were associated with elevated levels of certain complement factors, providing insight into the neuro-inflammatory pathogenesis of mood disorders.
Comparison of BP26, Omp25 and Omp31 and a Multi-Epitope Based Fusion Protein in Serological Detection of Canine Brucellosis
Authors: Yao Meixue , Liu Mengda , Chen Xia , Li Jianjun , Li Yan , Wei Runyu , Liu Yong , Kang Long , Duan Xiaoxiao , Shao Weixing , Sun Xiangxiang , Fan Xiaoxu , Sun Shufang , Tian Lili , Yin Dehui , Sun Mingjun
Published: October 2021

Background

Brucellosis is one of the most important zoonotic diseases in the world. Canine brucellosis caused mainly by B. canis is seriously neglected and there is lack of accurate diagnostic tools.
Methods

In this study, using 34 brucellosis positive dog sera and 62 negative control sera, the Brucella outer membrane protein of Omp31, BP26, Omp25 and a multi-epitope based fusion protein were evaluated by iELISA for their potential use as antigens in serological diagnosis for canine brucellosis.
Results

The result showed that multi-epitope based fusion protein performed best in distinguishing brucellosis positive and negative dog sera, with positive predictive value (PPV) was 100% and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 98.41%. BP26 and Omp31 showed excellent sensitivity in detecting brucellosis positive dog sera, but their cross reaction to sera infected with Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Listeria monocytogenes may hinder their application as diagnostic reagent. While Omp25 was lack of sufficient sensitivity and just showed limited ability in distinguishing positive and negative dog sera.
Conclusion

The multi-epitope based fusion protein could accelerate the development of diagnostic kit for canine brucellosis currently urgently needed in China.
Household-Specific Physical Activity Levels and Energy Intakes According to the Presence of Metabolic Syndrome in Korean Young Adults: Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2016‒2018
Authors: Lee Young-Jun , Park Yeon-Hee , Lee Jung-Woo , Sung Eun-Sook , Lee Hyun-Seob , Park Jonghoon
Published: October 2021

Background: Participation in exercise, and dietary and nutritional intakes have an impact on the risk and prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS), but these effects may differ according to whether a person lives alone or in a multi-person household. We analyzed differences in physical activity (PA) levels and energy intake according to household-type and MetS presence among young adults, to investigate the relationships among these factors.Methods: Data of 3,974 young adults (aged > 19 years and < 40 years) were obtained from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016‒2018). We analyzed PA levels (occupational and recreational PA, and place movement) and energy intake (total, carbohydrate, protein, and fat). Results: Logistic regression data showed that low PA levels and higher energy intake were associated with MetS incidence and its components in young adults, after adjusting for body mass index, smoking, household-type, and sex. Overall, there was no significant difference in PA level between the MetS and non-MetS group. The total energy intake was higher in the MetS than in the non-MetS group (p < 0.05). These results were similar to those found in multi-person households. In single-person households, the MetS group had significantly lower PA levels (p < 0.01) and total energy intake (p < 0.05) than the non-MetS group.Conclusions: We found significant association among low PA levels, high energy intake, and MetS components in young Korean adults, but with patterns differing according to household type. Energy intake was higher in young adults with than those without MetS, who lived in multi-person households, while young adults with MetS who lived alone had lower PA levels and lower energy intake than those without MetS. These findings highlight the need for different approaches of implementing PA and nutrition strategies according to the type of household in order to prevent MetS.
Use of body composition and phase angle analysis for the assessment of nutritional status and clinical outcomes in critically ill children
Authors: Xiong Zi-Hong , Zheng Xue-Mei , Zhang Guo-Ying , Wu Meng-Jun , Qu Yi
Published: October 2021

BackgroundMalnutrition is highly prevalent in critically ill children in the pediatric intensive care unit .We aimed to investigate the efficiency of bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) measurements and phase angle (PhA) analysis for the assessment of nutritional risk and clinical outcomes in critically ill children.MethodsThis single-center observational study included patients admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital. All patients underwent anthropometric measurement in the first 24 h of admission and underwent BIA measurements within 3 days after the admission. The patients were classified into different groups based on body mass index (BMI) for age. Electronic hospital medical records were reviewed to collect clinical data for each patient. All the obtained data were analyzed by the statistics method.ResultsThere were 204 patients enrolled in our study, of which 32.4% were diagnosed with malnutrition. We found that BMI, arm muscle circumference, fat mass, and %body fat were lower in the group with poorer nutritional status (P < 0.05). Evident differences in the score of the Pediatric Risk of Mortality and the duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) among the three groups with different nutritional statuses were observed (P < 0.05). Patients in the severely malnourished group had the longest duration of MV. In the MV groups, there were significant differences (P < 0.05) in albumin level, PhA, and extracellular water/total body water (ECW/TBW ratio). The ECW/TBW ratio and the time for PICU stay had a weak degree of correlation (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.375). PhA showed a weak degree of correlation with the duration time of medical ventilation (coefficient of correlation = 0.398).ConclusionBIA can be considered an alternative way to assess nutritional status in critically ill children. ECW/TBW ratio and PhA were correlated with PICU stay and duration time of medical ventilation, respectively.
WITHDRAWN: The Molecular Mechanism of ESZM Extract on Treatment ER(-) Breast Cancer in Vivo: Application of “Combat Poison with Poison” Theory
Authors: Ma Liwei , Chen Zhe , Wang Wenbao , Zhang Jingling , Zhang Hongtao , Liu Jicheng
Published: October 2021

Background: Extract of Euphorbia fischeriana S. and Ziziphus jujuba M. (ESZM) is a formula preparation, was composed of Euphorbia fischeriana S. (E. fischeriana) and Ziziphus jujuba M. (Z. jujuba). The aim of the current research was to examine for the first time the pharmacological effects and the underlying molecule mechanism of ESZM extract on the growth inhibition and apoptosis in human ER(-) or ER(+) breast cancer in vivo, and enrich and innovate the theory of traditional Chinese medicine of combating poison with poison. Methods: Growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in tumor tissues were determined by tumor inhibition rates, cycle analysis kit, Annexin V-FITC/PI staining, Hoechst 33342/PI staining, TUNEL test and TEM observation. Related genes and proteins expression levels were identified by qRT-PCR assay, Western Blotting method, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence means. Drug toxicity was analysised by serum biochemistry detection and H&E staining.Results: We found that ESZM extract can inhibite growth, block cell cycle at G2/M phase and induce apoptosis of subcutaneously transplanted tumor, especially ER(-) breast cancer transplanted tumor. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the polyjuice can down-regulate or up-regulate the expression of Bcl-2 family and PI3k/Akt pathway -related signaling molecules proteins and genes in vivo. ESZM extract or E. fischeriana extract increased the levels of ALT, AST, Cr and BUN, and increased liver and kidney toxicity in tumor-bearing mice by serum biochemistry detection and H&E staining.Conclusion: The pharmacological detection suggested that ESZM extract had significant anti-breast cancer effect, especially ER(-) breast cancer xenograft, and this process may be implement through the mitochondrion dependent pathway and the PI3k/Akt signaling pathway. Drug toxicity detection proved that ESZM extract because of compatibility with Z. jujuba was lower toxicity than E. fischeriana extract, was no significant difference in hepatorenal toxicity between ER(-) or ER(+) tumor-bearing mice.
Conventional Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors in Shahedieh Cohort Population: Yazd, Central Part of Iran
Authors: dehghani Ali , Ashkezari Habib Dehghani , Fallahzadeh Hossein , Soltani Mohammadhosein
Published: October 2021

Background: The prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD) is increasing worldwide. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of CHD and related risk factors in the population of Shahedieh cohort in Yazd, central Iran.Method: This cross-sectional analytical study was performed on the data of the first phase of the Yazd Shahedieh cohort study, which started in 2016 and included about 10,000 people from the urban population of 35-70 years old in Yazd Shahedieh – Yazd, Iran. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the variables and Chi-square test and multiple binary logistic regression models were used for analysis by reporting the modified odds ratio. All analyzes were performed in SPSS 19 software with a significance level of 5%. Results: The prevalence of the CHD was 8.08% (769 patients). The results of multiple binary logistic regression identified aging, low level of education, smoking, female gender, abnormal LDL, family history, diabetes and blood pressure as risk factors for CHD. The odds of getting CHD over the age of 60 was about 6 times than those aged 30-40, in the illiterate people it was about two times than the university. Smoking, family history, hypertension and diabetes increased the odds of getting CHD by 1.67, 1.59, 3.48 and 1.64. Smoking, family history, hypertension and diabetes increased the odds of getting CHD by 1.67, 1.59, 3.48 and 1.64, times than others, respectively.Conclusion: The prevalence of the disease in Iran was relatively high. According to the effect size, the most important risk factors for the disease were age over sixty years and blood pressure.
Evaluating Healthcare Governance Policies: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Finnegan Heather , Halas Gayle , Monnin Caroline , Peckham Allie , Doupe Malcolm
Published: October 2021

Background: Governance policies provide structures and processes through which healthcare systems are managed. Existing literature defines strategies to evaluate operational (e.g. program) and clinical (e.g., patient-provider) healthcare interventions; the equivalent strategies to evaluate governance policies are less well developed. The aim of the proposed scoping review is to examine the extent, nature and range of approaches used to evaluate healthcare governance policies.Methods: Informed by the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and the Arksey and O’Malley framework, the proposed study will conduct a keyword search of both health and social sciences databases, including Ageline (EBSCOhost 1978-2020), CINAHL with Full Text (EBSCOhost 1981-2020), EconLIT (EBSCOhost 1886-2020), Medline (Ovid 1946-2020), Global Health (Ovid 1973-2020) and Scopus (1970-2020). The grey literature – Public Documents (desLibris), Theses & Dissertations (ProQuest) and Google Advanced – will also be searched to ensure comprehensive identification of studies. Any evaluation of healthcare governance policies published in English will be included. Findings will be presented using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses: Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRIMSA-ScR). Our cross-disciplinary team will critically assess the identified literature. Discussion: Findings from the proposed scoping review will provide insight into the ways in which healthcare governance policies have been evaluated and offer future research directions. Based on initial literature scans and consultations with policy workers, we expect to demonstrate the need for more robust (i.e., deliberate, methodical) approaches to evaluate healthcare governance policies, which in turn requires meaningful partnerships to enrich the transactional space between research and policy.
Use of Elamipretide in Patients Assigned Treatment in the Compassionate Use Program: Case Series in Four Rare Orphan Diseases
Authors: Koenig Mary Kay , Russo S. Nick , McBride Kim L. , Bjornsson Hans Tomas , Gunnarsdottir Brynja Bjork , Goldstein Amy , Falk Scott A.
Published: October 2021

Background:Several mitochondrial diseases are caused by pathogenic variants that impair membrane phospholipid remodeling. There are no US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved therapies for these conditions. Elamipretide is a cell-permeable peptide that has been shown to target the inner mitochondrial membrane where it binds to cardiolipin, resulting in improved membrane stability, cellular respiration, and ATP production. Elamipretide has been evaluated in adult and adolescent patients with mitochondrial disorders such as primary mitochondrial myopathy and Barth syndrome, producing clinical and functional improvements. There is little experience with elamipretide in younger patients and those with other mitochondrial diseases. Results:We describe the use of elamipretide in a series of patients with various mitochondrial disorders providing insight regarding dosing of the drug for these patients, especially dosing in young patients. Conclusions:Based on our experience, a dose of approximately 0.5 mg/kg/day is well tolerated in pediatric patients aged < 12 years.
Influence of a special training process on the psychomotor skills of cadet pilots
Authors: Prokopczyk Adam , Wochyński Zbigniew
Published: October 2021

PurposeThe subject of this article is related to the work-activity in the air environment. The aim of the study was to check the effectiveness of the training process based on devices, which using require special biomechanical muscle work. In the research was check the influence of the training process on the Special Aviation Gymnastics Instruments (SAGI) on the improvement of the psychomotor skills, expressed as an increase in the percentage of ability to perform all tasks and the number of reels on a loop.MethodsCadets - second year pilots, studying at the faculty of a pilot. Cadets were carrying out a special pilot training program on SAGI. They were subjected to two exercise tests (reels forward on looping), before and after the period of special training. Exercise tests were performed with the use of a diagnostic and training device used to assess psychomotor skills. During two tests, heart rate (HR) and blood pressure were measured.ResultsThere was a statistically significant increase in the percentage of ability to perform all tasks (p<0.01) and a statistically insignificant increase in the number of reels forward on looping, in test II in relation to test I. In test II, a statistically insignificant higher level of heart rate and blood pressure before and after the effort was noted, compared to test I.ConclusionsIt was found that the training process on SAGI increased the psychomotority level by increasing the percentage of ability to perform all tasks and the number of reels, in test II in relation to test I.
Rno-miR-199a-3p targets Nedd4 to promote sensitization of ST36 acupoints via mast cell activation in a rat model of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Qi Wenchuan , Liu Baitong , Jiang Yilu , Luo Xinye , Li Zhiwei , Zheng Qianhua , Liang Fanrong , CAI Ding-jun
Published: October 2021

Selecting routine points on related meridians is widely accepted as the foundational principle of acupuncture. When the body is suffering disease or injury, corresponding acupoints are thought to be activated and manifest in several sensitized forms. Sensitized acupoints hold high clinical value as a reflection of disease activity on the body surface. Mast cells have been implicated in the process of acupoint sensitization but the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we evaluated ST36 as a sensitized acupoint in the monosodium iodoacetate-induced knee osteoarthritis rat model. We first confirmed sensitization at the ST36 acupoint through decreases in the acupoint mechanical pain threshold and instructively found an accompanying increase in skin mast cell degranulation. Thereafter, we used highthroughput RNA sequencing to reveal potential molecular mechanisms of acupoint sensitization. We showed that rno-miR-199a-3p was highly expressed in the sensitized ST36 acupoint and its expression was associated with mast cells. Functional experiments revealed that overexpression of rno-miR-199a-3p increased mast cell histamine release whereas inhibition of rno-miR-199a-3p decreased histamine release. Mechanistically, we established rno-miR-199a-3p acted to inhibit neural precursor cell expressed developmentally down-regulated 4 (Nedd4) protein expression through miRNA-mediated targeting of the 3’-UTR of Nedd4 mRNA. Moreover, we found ectopic expression of Nedd4 antagonized histamine release in mast cells and blocked the actions of rno-miR-199a-3p overexpression. Thus, our study establishes that mast cells participate in the process of acupoint sensitization, and further reveals a novel miRNA-based mechanism which is crucial for further understanding of acupoint sensitization and acupuncture applications.
BUB1 Predicts Poor Prognosis and Immune Status in Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: qi wenbo , Bai Yuping , Liu Le , Chen Hao
Published: October 2021

Background: Accurate assessment of the tumour immune microenvironment helps develop individualised immunotherapy regimens and screen dominant populations suitable for immunotherapy. Therefore, potential molecular markers were investigated to make an overall assessment of the immune microenvironment status of liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). Methods: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in LIHC were extracted from the International Cancer Genome Consortium and The Cancer Genome Atlas databases. Gene set enrichment analysis was employed to assess the function of DEGs. Hub genes were identified using the STRING tool. The prognostic value of the hub genes was evaluated through Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox regression. The correlation between genes and immunity was analysed using the TIMER tool. Further, tissue samples from 42 LIHC patients were collected for immunohistochemistry. HuH7 and SKP1 cells were analysed via western blotting, Cell Counting kit-8 assay, and Transwell assay. Results: A total of 121 DEGs were identified, and DEGs were enriched in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, hypoxia, myogenesis, and p53 pathways. A total of 20 hub genes were selected and a strong correlation was identified between these hub genes and prognosis. The expression of budding uninhibited by benzimidazoles 1 (BUB1), which is known to play a role in cancer progression, was found to be upregulated in LIHC (compared to normal tissues). Furthermore, BUB1 expression was strongly related to immune cells and immune checkpoint molecule expression. Immunohistochemistry indicated that BUB1 expression was higher in LIHC tissues than in normal liver tissues. Western blotting showed that BUB1 expression was the highest in HuH7 and SKP1 cells. BUB1 knockdown resulted in reduced proliferation and vertical migration ability of LIHC cells, and reduced the expression of phospho-SMAD family member 2 and phospho-SMAD family member 3 proteins. Immunohistochemistry showed that BUB1 expression was accompanied by immune cell infiltration into LIHC tissues.Conclusions: These results suggest that BUB1 may serve as a potential prognostic biomarker for LIHC and as an indicator of its immune status.
Flexible ureteroscope with ultrasound guidance for treatment of parapelvic renal cysts: A complementary approach to locate the cystic wall
Authors: Yan Kun-Wu , Tian XIao-Fei , Meng Na , Liu Wen-Zhan , Lu Zhi-Min , Guo Ming-Tao , Xiao Bo
Published: October 2021

Background

The main treatment of parapelvic cysts is flexible ureteroscope currently. Considering the intraoperative localization of the cyst may fail with flexible ureteroscope, we tend to use an innovative method by ultrasound-guided for easily locating cystic wall during flexible ureteroscopic surgery
Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 17 consecutive cases of parapelvic renal cysts treated by ultrasound-guided flexible ureteroscope between March 2017 and May 2020. The differences of simple flexible ureteroscopic technique and ultrasound-guided flexible ureteroscopic technique were compared. The surgical procedures, postoperative complications, results and patients’ follow-ups were evaluated.
Results

The cysts wall were seen clearly in 10 patients with ureteroscopic vision. Another 7 patients changed to ultrasound-guided flexible ureteroscopic surgery since it was difficult to identify the cyst wall. Mean operative time were 25.9 ± 8.7 minutes and 37.1 ± 10.1 minutes for conventional and modified technique respectively (P =0.004), of which 17.6 ± 5.8 minutes and 26.5 ± 8.4 minutes to search the cysts, respectively (P = 0.002), and the mean time of the incising were 7.1 ± 4.9 minutes and 12.1 ± 5.6 minutes, respectively (P = 0.000). All of the patients were followed-up 12 months, there were no serious complications and recurrence observed.
Conclusions

We demonstrated that it is feasible and safe to treat parapelvic renal cyst by ultrasound-guided flexible ureteroscopic incision and drainage. The less sample size and further studies were the limitations of our study.
Separation of butane isomers using a novel ZIF-8 slurry with extremely high efficiency: from laboratory study to industrial pilot test
Authors: Yang Mingke , Wang Huishan , Zuo Julian Y. , Han Yu , Chai Liya , Li Kun , Chen Wan , Peng Xiaowan , Dong Baocan , Deng Chun , Sun Chang-Yu , Liu Bei , Chen Guang-Jin
Published: October 2021

Both n-butane and iso-butane are important petrochemical raw materials, and their separation is of great significance and full of challenge because of their close boiling characteristic. The ZIF-8 slurry formed with a novel mixed solvent M-water solution as sorption media was adopted to separate the mixture with high efficiency. The iso-/n-butane selectivity of ZIF-8/M-water slurries is as high as 890 with high kinetic performance, even transcending the upper limit of the new materials or membranes. More encouragingly, continuous pilot separation device was established and test results show that the purity and recovery ratio of iso-butane product achieved 99.46 mol% and 87% respectively, which are remarkably superior to the corresponding performance (98.56 mol% and 54%) of the industrial distillation tower. To our best knowledge, this is the first industrial pilot test using MOFs for gas separation, and also an important step forward to the commercial application of MOFs in gas separation.
Effects of Socio-economic Factors on Research Over Systemic Sclerosis: an Analysis Based on Long Time Series of Bibliometric Data
Authors: Guo Wei , Zhou Zeyu , Liang Yinhe , Xu Chuanhui , Zeng Lin , Dong Zhiyong , Mu Rong
Published: October 2021

Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare detrimental disease warranting mobilization of global research efforts. Evaluating how socio-economic factors impact country research output on SSc could help to identify solutions advancing SSc research.Methods Publication production on SSc during 1969–2018 and data for structural and policy factors for WHO member countries were collected from public sources. Associations between SSc research output and country-level factors were investigated through panel regression. Difference-in-differences analysis further assessed the causal effects of rare disease legislation. Results SSc publications showed an increasing annual growth rate (−0.3% during 1969–1983 vs. 6.9% during 2000–2018), but were concentrated in high-income countries (HICs). Ten countries, nine of which were HICs, published 12 261 (77.5%) SSc publications but another 87 countries produced none. GDP, population and expenditure on research and development were positively associated with SSc publications (p<0.001). Higher health expenditure was only found to be associated with increased SSc publications in HICs (p<0.001). Rare disease legislation increased annual publication production by 62.8% (95% CI 0.390–0.867; p<0.001) averagely. In MICs, the effect was especially swift and lasting. No significant impact was found with GDP per capita, female percentage, and political indicators.Conclusions SSc research output increased over time with substantial country disparities. Effective health policies facilitating research should be expanded especially among MICs to accelerate research advancement.
Effect of Knowledge Translation on Suspected Venous Thromboembolism in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Peng Fei , Zhang Quan , Zeng Xiaohui , Fu Min , Li Jiang , Tan Xiaoju , Li Yifan , Qiu Jian , Zhu Yazhi , Li Meizhi , Zhong Yanjun , Wu Shangjie , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2021

Background Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a preventable disease, but the implementing effect of preventive measures is not optimistic, and few patients receive optimal prophylaxis, which result in significant mortality, long-term complications and financial burden. The purpose of the article was to explore the effect of knowledge translation on suspected venous thromboembolism in hospitalized patients on admission.Methods The data of suspected VTE patients on admission was retrospectively collected from the Second Xiangya Hospital from October 2016 to September 2020. The Mann-Whitney test and Fisher’s exact test (or χ 2 test) were used to analyze the continuous and categorical variables. A decision tree model was developed to assess the cost-effectiveness of post-prophylaxis education compared with pre-prophylaxis education. The ranges of each parameter were set to perform sensitivity analysis.Results The awareness of preventable VTE has raised which expressed in the increasing use of Caprini score, incidence of VTE, and department distribution of suspected VTE patients on admission. The incremental cost effectiveness ratio was a negative value which was significantly smaller than willing to pay (WTP). When the WTP value was ¥212676, the probability of patients' acceptance was 84.3% in the post-prophylaxis group and 15.7% in the pre-prophylaxis group. No matter how WTP changed, the cost-effectiveness acceptability of post-prophylaxis education in preventing VTE after hospitalization was better than pre-prophylaxis education did. Conclusion Knowledge translation on VTE could have cost effectiveness on suspected VTE in hospitalized patients on admission.
A Risk Assessment Model of Immune-Associated lncRNA to Predict the Prognosis and Immune Landscape of Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Tiantian , Zhu Cuiwen , Duan Yiping , Chen Lingyue , Liu Jiacui , Li Dongxu , Yu Mingxia , Yang Gui
Published: October 2021

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most common malignancies of the urinary system, accounting for 3% of adult malignancies. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is abnormally regulated in many cancers and can be used as a molecular marker for early diagnosis and prognosis of RCC. Here, original lncRNA datas were retrieved from TCGA, differential co-expression analysis was performed to classify immune-related lncRNA (irlncRNA) with differential expression, and the improved 0 or 1 matrix cyclic single pairing method was used to verify lncRNA pairs. Then, we performed a univariate analysis in combination with an improved Lasso penalty regression that included cross-validation, multiple repetitions, and random stimulus procedures to determine different expression irlncRNA (DEirlncRNA) pairs. AUC values under Receiver Operating Characteristic curve (ROC) were calculated to obtain the optimal model, and AIC values of each point on AUC were calculated to obtain the optimal cut-off point to distinguish the high and low risk groups of Clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients. Finally, we evaluated the new model in a variety of clinical settings including survival, clinicopathological features, tumor-infiltrating immune cells, chemotherapy, and checkpoint related biomarkers, all showing promising clinical application.
The Magnitude of Pre-lacteal Feeding Practice and its Influencing Factors Among Mothers with Children Under the Age of Two Years in Afar Region of Ethiopia: A Community based Quantitative and Qualitative Study
Authors: Gebeyehu Temesgen , Gebru Abel , Agegnehu Nigus
Published: October 2021

Background: Pre-lacteal feeding is a barrier to implement optimal breastfeeding practices and caused new-born disease. Pre-lacteal feeding is primarily practiced in developing countries, where cultural and social structures are based on descent and relationships. The aim of study was to determine the magnitude of pre-lacteal feeding practice and its influencing factors among mothers with children under the age of 2-years in Afar region of Ethiopia. Method: A community based cross sectional study supplemented by qualitative study was employed. In the quantitative study, 235 study participants were included, whereas seventeen study subjects participated in the qualitative study. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with pre-lacteal feeding practice. The qualitative data was analyzed using thematic approach. Result: The magnitude of pre-lacteal feeding was 36.6%. Being a housewife (AOR=4.1, 95% CI: 1.4-12.2) and having male indexed child (AOR=4.9, 95% CI: 1.8-13.5) were more likely to practice pre-lacteal feeding than those of trade and female, respectively. However, pre-lacteal feeding practice decreased in those mothers with three and above ante natal care visits (AOR=0.31, 95% CI: 0.1-0.9), delivered at health institutes (AOR=0.1, 95% CI: 0.02-0.3), starting breastfeeding within one hour (AOR=0.04, at 95% CI: 0.01-0.1) and getting breast feeding counseling (AOR=0.21, at 95%CI: 0.06-0.7). Milk, plain water, sugar solution, honey, butter, dates (‘temir'), a leaf, and condo pepper were the most common pre-lacteal foods reported by study participants. Cultural beliefs and the assumption of cleaning new-born throat and bowel were the most common reason to practice pre-lacteal feeding. Conclusion: The magnitude of pre-lacteal feeding was high due to socio-cultural and maternal health service utilization factors. Water, milk products, sweet foods and some of plant types were the most common pre-lacteal foods. Key words: Pre-lacteal feeding, factors, mother, children
Endophenotype-Wide Association Study Reveals Genetic Substrates of Core Symptom Domains and Neurocognitive Function in Autism.
Authors: Lee In-Hee , Koelliker Ekaterina , Kong Sek Won
Published: October 2021

Background Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder largely attributable to rare and common genetic variants. Additionally, environmental factors such as maternal immune activation and air pollution exposure can also increase the risk of autism. Genetic heterogeneity of autism has been well-recognized from gene discovery efforts over the past decade; however, genetic substrates of endophenotypes that constitute phenotypic heterogeneity are not known yet. Methods Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data and a set of phenotype scores that represent neurocognitive development and the severity of core symptoms of autism were collected from the iHART and MSSNG databases and the phenotype database of Autism Speaks. Endophenotype-wide association analysis was performed with genome-wide genotype and 29 phenotype scores. Results One or more genetic loci were associated with each of phenotype scores at a genome-wide significance threshold ( P =5×10 -8 ) except for a total score of the Social Responsiveness Scale-2. An intergenic locus on chromosome 15q26.1 was significant for three core symptom domain scores of ADOS Module 1 while each phenotype score was associated with a unique set of genetic loci. The Repetitive Behaviors Scale total score was associated with the largest number of loci (N=132) including the loci that overlapped with the genes involved in brain development and neurodegenerative disorders. Among the significant genotype-endophenotype associations, verbal intelligence and the OSTN gene was notable. The secretory peptide osteocrin—encoded by OSTN —is implicated in activity dependent dendritic growth in human and has potential for a biomarker of autism and an endophenotype marker for verbal intelligence. Limitations Validation of our findings in another cohort is required. Several associations involving the ADI-R and ADOS scores may indicate inherited allelic differences between affected and unaffected individuals since unaffected siblings were included in our analysis. Conclusions Our results suggest that autism candidate genes discovered by case-control GWAS may include trait-associated genes for core symptoms.
Comprehensive Characterization of Transgene Integration in a Similar Intragenesis Rice Event Using Paired-end Whole-genome Sequencing Approach
Authors: Xu Wenting , Zhang Hanwen , Zhang Yuchen , Li Rong , Yang Litao
Published: October 2021

Efficient, accurate molecular characterization of genetically modified (GM) organisms is challenging, especially for novel transgenic products of cisgenesis/intragenesis transferred with genes/elements of recipient species. Herein, GM rice event G281, involving transfer with native promoters and an RNA interference (RNAi) expression cassette in a process similar to intragenesis, was subjected to molecular characterization using paired-end whole genome sequencing (PE-WGS). The results showed that transgenes integrated at rice chromosome 3 locus 16,439,674 included a 36 bp deletion of rice genomic DNA, and the whole integration contained two copies of the complete transfer DNA (T-DNA) in a head-to-head arrangement. No unintended insertion or backbone sequence of the transformed plasmid were observed at the whole genome level. Molecular characterization of the G281 event will assist risk assessment and application for a commercial license. Additionally, the findings demonstrate the applicability of PE-WGS for molecular characterization of cisgenesis/intragenesis crops.
Study on the Effect of Porosity on Countercurrent Hollow Fiber Membrane Humidification System
Authors: NIU Runping , Jia Xiaoting , Geng Lizhi
Published: October 2021

The effect of porosity on the humidification efficiency of countercurrent hollow fiber membrane humidification system was investigated by using numerical simulation method to study polypropylene (PP) porous fiber membrane material. Firstly, the correctness of the numerical model was verified by experiments, and then the influence of porous fiber membrane material on humidification efficiency was further explored by changing the porosity of the model. The simulation results show that the humidification capacity and efficiency of the humidification component increase with the increase of porosity. When the porosity is between 0.35-0.8, the humidification capacity and efficiency increase significantly. However, when the porosity is between 0.8-0.9, although the humidification amount and humidification efficiency value are high, the increment is not obvious, and the porosity of the fiber film is inversely proportional to the support strength of the film, and the larger the porosity is, the shorter the service life of the film material is. Therefore, it is suggested to design the porosity of polypropylene (PP) film material between 0.65 and 0.8. It can not only ensure the high humidification capacity and efficiency of the fiber membrane, but also prolong the service life of the membrane.
Cerebellar Tonsillar Herniation in Sudden Death of An Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa Patient: A Case Report.
Authors: Kitajima Tasuku , Otani Ryoko , Matsushima Naho , Matsubara Naoki , Inoue Takeshi , Fujii Akiko , Ban Shinichi , Sakuta Ryoichi
Published: October 2021

Background: Anorexia nervosa not only results in severe malnutrition but also carries a high risk of sudden death. Although fatal arrhythmias are the most common cause of sudden death, it is often unclear what exactly causes them. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no reports of cerebral herniations in patients with anorexia nervosa.Case presentation: A 17-year-old adolescent girl with neuropathy and autism spectrum disorder was admitted to the pediatric ward for extreme weight loss. Eight hours after admission, she suddenly went into cardiopulmonary arrest and died despite resuscitation. A postmortem autopsy revealed the unexpected findings of generalized severe cerebral edema and cerebellar tonsillar herniation.Conclusion: Intracranial hypertension may need to be considered when the condition of patients with anorexia nervosa suddenly worsens during refeeding periods. Postmortem autopsy and autopsy imaging are recommended to determine the exact cause of sudden death.
Acupuncture Treatments for Post-stroke Depression: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Ching Lam Wai , Li Hui Juan , Guo Jianwen , Yao Liang , Chau Janita , Lo Suzanne , Yuen Chun Sum , Ng Bacon Fung Leung , Yu Edwin Chau-Leung , Bian Zhaoxiang , Lau Alexander Y , Zhong Linda LD
Published: October 2021

Background: Depression is one of the most common complications after stroke, with a prevalence of 30-33%. Patients with post-stroke depression (PSD) usually experience anxiety, hopelessness, and insomnia, which have a negative impact on their daily activities and post-stroke rehabilitation. In this review, we aimed to explore the impact of acupuncture in alleviating symptoms of PSD and to evaluate the difference in effectiveness between acupuncture combined with pharmacotherapies and various non-pharmacotherapies in order to provide guides and advice for clinical personnel. Methods: Six databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, Chongqing VIP Database) and two clinical trials registration platforms were searched from inception to May 2021. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing needle-based acupuncture with pharmacotherapy, and other non-pharmacotherapy or invalid group were included. Two independent reviewers identified eligible studies. Two reviewers independently abstracted and recorded data into a pre-made form. A Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted to assess and compare different techniques using RStudio 3.6.0. The primary outcome was the change in scores of scales measuring depressive symptoms. The secondary outcomes were changes in serotonin levels and in quality of life. Results: Fifty-nine RCTs were included. The results of this NMA showed that compared with western medicine (WM), acupuncture alone or with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (RTMS), Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) alone or with WM, were superior for alleviating depression symptoms. Compared to Usual Care, acupuncture alone or plus other therapies could significantly decrease scores of the Hamilton Depression Rating scale. However, there was no significant difference found among acupuncture, WM, TCM with AC plus any of other treatment.Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that acupuncture alone or combined with other therapies appear to be effective in improving depression symptoms of stroke survivors. Moreover, in comparison with WM, acupuncture alone or plus RTMS, TCM, TCM with WM, or WM, were more effective in improving depression symptoms. Also, acupuncture with RTMS seems to be the most effective with the highest probability.