bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Impact of Abdominal Versus Mediastinal Metastases as a Prognostic Factor for Poor Outcomes Following Esophageal Cancer Surgery: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Miyawaki Yutaka , Sato Hiroshi , Oya Shuichiro , Sugita Hirofumi , Hirano Yasumitsu , Sakuramoto Shinichi , Okamoto Kojun , Yamaguchi Shigeki , Koyama Isamu
Published: December 2020

BackgroundSurgery is still the mainstay of radical treatment for resectable esophageal cancer (EC). It is apparent that the presence or spread of lymph node metastasis is a powerful prognostic factor in patients with EC who are eligible for curative treatment. Although the importance and efficacy of lymph node dissection in radical esophagectomy have been reported, the clinical or prognostic relevance of specific metastatic patterns within the mediastinal cavity and abdomen remains unclear. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the association between postoperative survival with clinical mediastinal lymph node metastases (cMLNMs) and abdominal lymph node metastases (cALNMs) in 143 patients who underwent radical EC surgery at our hospital between May 2012 and July 2017.ResultsA significant difference in cause-specific survival (CSS) was observed between patients with and without cALNM (log-rank p=0.000). A multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that cALNM and thoracic surgery (mediastinal lymphadenectomy via conventional open right thoracotomy or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery) independently predicted CSS (p=0.001 and 0.037, respectively). Moreover, a significant difference in systemic recurrence-free survival was observed between those with and without cALNM (log-rank p=0.000). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that cALNM and sex independently predicted systemic recurrence-free survival (p=0.005 and 0.013, respectively). ConclusioncALNM was an independent poor prognostic factor for CSS after EC surgery. It may also be an independent prognostic factor for postoperative systemic recurrence, which can shorten CSS. For patients with cALNM-positive EC who have a high potential risk of systemic metastases, more extensive treatment besides the conventional perioperative systemic chemotherapy may be necessary.
Communication Link Model Using Trellis Coded Modulation for 5G Communication in the Tropical Regions
Authors: Patra Trilochan , Mitra Swarup Kumar
Published: December 2020

Signal fading is a major problem in the tropical regions. Here the signals get highly attenuated for torrential rain, hence the signal power diminishes and the bit error rate (BER) increases. To enhance the signal to noise ratio (SNR) or to minimize the BER a communication link model using trellis coded modulation (TCM) for 5G communication has been proposed in this paper for the tropical regions. Various diversity techniques have been applied to minimize BER in the tropical regions. STBC (Space-Time Block Coding) MIMO technique is a spatial diversity technique which has been used in the proposed model in this paper. Bit error rate values are obtained for MIMO multi path fading distributions viz. Rayleigh fading distribution and Rician fading distribution. BER values are also attained in respect of different MIMO techniques (2x2, 3x3 and 4x4). The 4x4 STBC MIMO System has been generated using hardware co-simulation block and the results are implemented in Xilinx kintex-7 FPGA board. From the analysis of the result it is observed that Rayleigh fading distribution reflects better performance than that of Rician fading distribution. 4x4 MIMO Technique renders better result in comparison with that of lower MIMO techniques.
Quality of Life after Total Parathyroidectomy in Patients with Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: XU JIA , Zhou DongS , Fu RongZ , Wang YuL
Published: December 2020

Background. Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) have a decreased quality of life (QoL), which is attributable in part to secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT). Surgery is the definitive treatment for SHPT. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of total parathyroidectomy (PTX) with deltoid autotransplantation on QoL.Methods: A total of 201 ESRD patients with SHPT were enrolled. The operation efficacy was evaluated by analyzing preoperative and postoperative values, including the levels of intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), serum phosphorus, serum calcium, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and calcium-phosphorus product. The QoL was evaluated by scores on the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item short-form (SF-36) health survey preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively.Results: Compared with preoperatively, postoperatively, the levels of iPTH (2033 pg/ml vs 62.5 pg/ml), serum phosphorus (2.30 mg/dl vs 1.60 mg/dl), serum calcium (3.62 mg/dl vs 1.84 mg/dl), and calcium-phosphorus product were all decreased. Variations in the number and anatomic location of thyroid glands were found in the patients. QoL improved significantly in all 8 individual and 2 component summary scales, with a more significant decrease in the physical health scales.Conclusion: PTX significantly improves QoL in patients with SHPT.
Effect of Combined G6PD Deficiency and Diabetes on Protein Oxidation and Lipid Peroxidation.
Authors: Karadsheh Naif S , Quttaineh Nisreen A. , Karadsheh Salem N. , El-Khateeb Mohammad
Published: December 2020

Oxidative Stress, an imbalance in the pro oxidant / antioxidant homeostasis occurs by a large number of physiological and nonphysiological processes and in several human diseases including diabetes.The use of protein carbony protein (PC) and malanodialdehyde (MDA) as biomarkers of oxidative stress are the most widely measured markers for protein and lipid oxidation. These are measured by spectrophotometric assay. the aim of the study is to measure the effect of G6PD – deficiency on the oxidative markers and the antioxidant GSH in diabetic and non diabetic individuals because of the high incidence of G6PD – deficiency in Jordan and many parts of the worldThe results show that diabetes and/or G6PD deficiency are positively connected to protein and lipid oxidation. The effect is additive in protein oxidation when both disorders are present. The antioxidant, GSH level, is not affected by diabetes but reduced to 50% by G6PD deficiency.
Long-term Outcomes of Adding Alpha-glucosidase Inhibitors in Insulin-treated Patients with type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yen Fu-Shun , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Lin Mei-Chen , Hsu Chih-Cheng , Hwu Chii-Min
Published: December 2020

Background: In insulin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), glycemic control is usually suboptimal. Methods: This study compared the risks of mortality and cardiovascular events in insulin-treated patients adding or not adding alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs). Results: This cohort study included data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. In total, 17,417 patients newly diagnosed as having T2DM and undergoing insulin therapy during 2000–2012 were enrolled. Overall incidence rates of all-cause mortality, hospitalized coronary artery disease (CAD), stroke, and heart failure were compared between 4165 AGI users and 4165 matched nonusers. The incidence rates of all-cause mortality were 17.10 and 19.61 per 1000 person-years in AGI nonusers and users, respectively. Compared with nonusers, AGI users had a higher mortality risk [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.05–1.40; p = 0.01]. Regarding AGI use, aHRs (95% CI) for cardiovascular death, non-cardiovascular death, hospitalized CAD, stroke, and heart failure were 1.20 (0.83–1.74), 1.27 (1.07–1.50), 1.12 (0.95–1.31), 0.98 (0.85–1.14), and 1.03 (0.87–1.22) respectively. Conclusion: AGI use was associated with higher risks of all-cause mortality and non-cardiovascular death in insulin-treated patients with T2DM. Therefore, adding AGIs in insulin-treated patients may not be appropriate.
A Prognostic Model for the Overall Survival of Patients with Ewing's Sarcoma
Authors: Feng Xiaofei , Ma Yao , Lei Hai , Wang Wenji
Published: December 2020

Background: Ewing's sarcoma (ES) is the second most common primary malignant bone tumor. Although the disease has been studied on a molecular basis, its prognosis has not improved. Therefore, the goal of this study is to screen effective biomarkers for predicting the prognosis and progression of ES.Methods: In this study, the gene expression profile of Ewing's sarcoma was downloaded from public databases. Candidate genes were screened by two methods of weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differential genes expression analysis, and the Hub gene were determined by the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. The univariate cox regression and least absolute shrinkage and the selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression were performed on the Hub gene to construct a prognostic model. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve tests the predictive power of the prognostic model. Use the clinical data in the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database for verification. Finally, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was performed to obtain the biological role of prognostic genes in ES.Results: A total of 542 differentially expressed genes（DEGs） were obtained. Through WGCNA, the obtained turquoise module is significantly related to ES. PPI network analysis of candidate genes identified 10 Hub genes. The univariate cox regression results showed that CACNB1, IDH2, ATP1B4, PRKAG3, STAC3 are risk factors affecting the prognosis of ES. A prognostic model was constructed using IDH2 and PRKAG3, and patients were divided into two risk groups. The survival time of patients in the high-risk group was significantly shorter than that in the low-risk group. The ROC curve confirms that this model has certain accuracy. IGCG cohort verification yielded consistent results. GSEA results showed that IDH2 in the development of ES may promote the progression of the disease through G2M CHECKPOINT, GLYCOLYSIS, MITOTIC SPINDLE, MTORC1 SIGNALING, PEROXISOME, PI3K-AKT-MTOR SIGNALING pathways, while PRKAG3 through MYOGENESIS pathway.Conclusions: This study shows that IDH2 and PRKAG3 may play important roles in the progression of ES, and can be used as therapeutic targets and prognostic evaluation biomarkers.
Investigation of Candidate Genes and Mechanism Associated with Immune Cell during the Progression of Glioblastoma based on Bioinformatics
Authors: Xie Hui , Ding Xiao-hui , Yuan Ce , Li Jin-jiang , Li Zhao-yang , Lu Wei-cheng
Published: December 2020

Background: This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism of immune cell infiltration during the development of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), and explore the potential immune cell associated prognostic genes for GBM. Methods: Gene expression data and corresponding clinical data of GBM samples (tumor group) and normal samples (normal group) in TCGA-GBM and GTEx dataset were downloaded. The differentially expression analysis was performed on samples between two groups. Based on tumor immune microenvironment analysis, the immune-related RNAs (lncRNAs and mRNAs) were further explored. Then, functional enrichment analysis, ceRNA network, risk prediction model and prognosis investigation were performed. Finally, the results of survival prognosis of key genes were tested by additional datasets. Results: A total of 4989 up-regulated genes and 2349 down-regulated genes were revealed between tumor group and normal group. M2 macrophages accounted for the largest proportion of tumor infiltrates immune cells in GBM, and was related to the prognosis of GBM patients. Totally 168 mRNAs (KIF18B) and 5 lncRNAs were related to infiltration of M2 Macrophage, of which 25 mRNAs and 5 lncRNAs forms a ceRNA network through 37 miRNAs (eg., miR-6849-3p). These genes were mainly assembled in functions like signal release. A risk model based on 5 mRNAs (such as FOX4 and ELFN2) and lncRNA PR11-161H23.5 was constructed. Verification test showed that all 5 mRNAs were significantly associated with OS prognosis.Conclusions: M2 Macrophage infiltration might participate in tumorigenesis of GBM via RP11-161H23.5-miR6849-3p-KIF18B ceRNA interaction. Furthermore, mRNAs such as FOX4 and ELFN2 might be potential prognostic markers for GBM patients.
Sodium Tanshinone IIA Sulfonate Promotes Spinal Cord Injury Repair by Inhibiting BSCB Disruption In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Luo Dan , Li Xing , Zhan Jiheng , Hou Yonghui , Luan Jiyao , Lin Dingkun
Published: December 2020

Background:Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to microvascular damage and the destruction of blood spinal cord barrier (BSCB), which progresses to secondary injuries like apoptosis and necrosis of neurons and glia, culminating in permanent neurological deficits. BSCB restoration is the primary goal of SCI therapy, although very few drugs can repair the damaged barrier structure and permeability. Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) is commonly used to treat cardiovascular disease. We found that STS restored BSCB integrity and promoted microvessel recovery 7 days after SCI in a mouse model. However, the therapeutic effects of STS on damaged BSCB in the early stage of SCI remained uncertain. Methods: we exposed spinal cord microvascular endothelial cells (SCMECs) to H2O2 and treated them with different doses of STS. The mice received intraperitoneal injection of STS after SCI in vivo model. Spinal cord tissue was taken 1 and 3d post-SCI. HE, Nissl staining, BSCB permeability, and the expression levels of tight junction (TJ) and adherens junction (AJ), MMP2, MMP9, NeuN, and C-caspase-3 were analyzed.Results: In addition to protecting the cells from H2O2-induced apoptosis, STS also reduced cellular permeability. In the in vivo model of SCI as well, STS reduced BSCB permeability, relieved tissue edema and hemorrhage, suppressed MMPs activation and prevented TJ and AJ the loss of proteins. Conclusions:Our findings indicate that STS treatment promotes SCI recovery, and should be investigated further as a drug candidate against traumatic SCI.
Establishment and Comparison of an Experimental Kidney Yang Deficiency Syndrome Rat Model Caused by Hydrocortisone, Adenine, and Dexamethasone Combined with Adriamycin in Rats
Authors: Zhang Yehui , Tong Junfeng , Zhu Yan , Luo Qihan , Yu Hongxia , Huang Shuo , Ji Liting , Li Changyu
Published: December 2020

Objective: The paper is aimed to establish a method for renal injury in rats with kidney yang deficiency syndrome (KYDS) of the stable by comparing different model establishment methods and optimize the final modeling method.Method: In order to mimic water metabolism disorder of KYDS- a diagnostic pattern in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), we made a comparison of hydrocortisone-induced, adenine-induced, dexamethasone combined with adriamycin-induced KYDS rat model according to testing general behavior, detecting Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function and renal function also making use of drug action. Additionally, the effect of adenine at a dose of 100 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg, respectively, on establishment of KYDS model was investigated in rats. Finally, Shenqi Wan (SQW, 3 g/kg) was used to estimate the deterioration of adenine that is associated with KYDS. Result: Three KYDS model rats all exhibited weight loss, anal temperature drop, reduced food intake and dysfunction of the Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which could be alleviated by SQW. However, different from other two methods, adenine-induced rats were prominently manifested as water and fluid metabolism disorders (sharply increased water intake and urine volume). Renal injury in adenine-induced rats was more obvious than it in hydrocortisone-induced rats and dexamethasone combined with adriamycin-induced rats. And renal toxicity caused by adenine was reversible by SQW treatment. Water metabolism disorder in adenine-induced rats was more closer to clinical symptoms of patients with KYDS. Subsequently, we found different dose of adenine gavage (100, 150, 200 mg/kg) for 14 days result in general behavior change, dysfunction of HPA axis and renal function damage. But only medium-dose of adenine induced toxicity could be reversed by SQW treatment for 21 days.Conclusion: The result of the comparison between the three modeling methods showed that adenine-induced was more effective to establish the KYDS model, and only a medium-dose of adenine for inducing renal poison could be recovered by SQW treatment. Therefore, a medium-dose of adenine was optimal for the establishment of the KYDS rat model.Trial registration : This is an animal experiment, trial registration is not necessary.
3ʹS,4ʹS-Disenecioylkhellactone from the Roots of Peucedanum Japonicum Induces Apoptosis in HL-60 Cells ​
Authors: Kang Kyung-Yun , Lee Sung-Ju , Kim Hyun-Ji , Kang Heonjoong , Nam Sang-Jip , Yee Sung-Tae
Published: December 2020

Background: The root of Peucedanum japonicum is used in traditional medicine in Japan, the Philippines, China, and Korea, and it has been reported to have a variety of biological activities, including anticancer activity. Inducing apoptosis in tumor cells has become a major focus of antitumor drug development; therefore, we studied the apoptotic effects of the MeOH/CH2Cl2 extract of the roots of P. japonicum and its components on HL-60 cells (a human leukemia cell line).Methods: Compounds were purified using solvents with varying polarities followed by column chromatography (reverse phase), and the structures were confirmed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The viabilities of HL-60, A549, and MCF-7 cells were determined using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Analysis of apoptosis signaling was performed only with HL-60 cells, and cell cycle progression, Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining (analyzed by flow cytometry), the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP, as analyzed by flow cytometry), and caspase-3, 8, and 9 activity (determined using the caspase-3, -8, and -9 activity kit according to the manufacturer’s protocol) were evaluated.Results: Two coumarin molecules, (-)-isosamidin (1) and 3ʹS,4ʹS disenecioylkhellactone (2), were isolated by bioactivity-guided fractionation. Only compound 2 showed cytotoxicity in HL-60 cells, which occurred due to increases in the sub-G1 population and the initiation of early and late apoptosis as determined by Annexin V/PI staining. In addition, decreases in the MMP were observed in HL-60 cells treated with compound 2. Several apoptotic features were observed, including increased cleavage of caspase-3, -8, and -9. Moreover, treatment with Z-DEVD-FMK (a caspase-3 inhibitor), Z-IETD-FMK (a caspase-8 inhibitor), or Z-LEHD-FMK (a caspase-9 inhibitor) significantly inhibited cell cytotoxicity.Conclusions: We provide evidence that compound 2 induces apoptosis in HL-60 cells.
Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Secreted Exosomes Overexpressing Microrna-124-3p Inhibit DLBCL Progression By Downregulating  NFATc1
Authors: Ding Xiaolei , Xu Lingzhi , Sun Xiuhua , Zhao Xiaoxuan , Gao Bing , Cheng Ye , Liu Dan , Zhao Jian , Zhang Xian , Xu Liye , Song Jin-cheng
Published: December 2020

Background: Exosomes play important roles in intercellular communication by delivering microRNAs (miRNAs) that mediate tumor initiation and development, including those in diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). To date, however, limited studies on the inhibitory effect of exosomes derived from human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) on DLBCL progression have been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of hBMSC-secreted exosomes carrying microRNA-124-3p in the development of DLBCL.Methods: Microarray-based expression analysis was adopted to identify differentially expressed genes and regulatory miRNAs, which revealed the candidate NFATc1. Next, the binding affinity between miR-124-3p and NFATc1 was using luciferase activity assays. The mechanism underlying NFATc1 regulation was investigated using lentiviral transfections. Subsequently, DLBCL cells were cocultured with exosomes derived from hBMSCs transfected with a miR-124-3p mimic or control. Proliferation and apoptosis were measured in vitro. Finally, the effects of hBMSC-derived miR-124-3p on tumor growth were investigated in vivo.Results: MiR-124-3p was downregulated while NFATc1 was upregulated in DLBCL cells. MiR-124-3p specifically targeted and negatively regulated the expression of NFATc1 in DLBCL cells, upregulated miR-124-3p-inhibited DLBCL cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis. In addition, we found that hBMSC-derived exosomes carrying miR-124-3p repressed DLBCL cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo.Conclusion: hBMSC-derived exosomal miR-124-3p represses the development of DLBCL through the downregulation of NFATc1.
Efficacy Evaluation Of Albumin-Bound Paclitaxel Combined With Carboplatin As Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy For Primary Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Wang Huan , Han Yimin
Published: December 2020

Background: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of albumin-bound paclitaxel combined with carboplatin (Nab-TC) with that of traditional solvent-based paclitaxel combined with carboplatin (TC) as a neoadjuvant chemotherapy regimen for primary epithelial ovarian cancer. Methods: Seventy-six patients with advanced primary epithelial ovarian cancer admitted for treatment at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University from January 2015 to August 2020 were retrospectively selected. All patients underwent surgery after two courses of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with a combination of paclitaxel and carboplatin. Among the patients included for study, 34 were in the Nab-TC program and 42 in the TC program. Results: After two courses of chemotherapy, the ORR value was 52.38% in the TC group and 58.82% in the Nab-TC group (P=0.355). The CA125 value of the Nab-TC group decreased by 88.28% and that of the TC group by 86.99% (P=0.358). Overall operation time, intraoperative blood loss and postoperative hospital time of patients in the Nab-TC group were lower (P>0.05) and length of total hospital stay was significantly lower (P<0.05) relative to the TC group. Moreover, incidence of bone marrow suppression, abnormal liver function, arrhythmia and hyperglycemia in the Nab-TC group were lower (P>0.05) and total incidence of nausea and vomiting as well as grade III and IV stages were significantly lower (P<0. 05) than those in the TC group. However, the frequency of acral numbness in Nab-TC group was higher compared to the TC group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The efficacy of the Nab-TC regimen as neoadjuvant chemotherapy for advanced primary epithelial ovarian cancer was equivalent to that of the TC regimen, along with a lower incidence of adverse reactions, supporting its therapeutic value in the clinic.
The Long Non-Coding RNA SNHG16 Promotes NPC Cell Progression by Competitively Binding miR-23b-3p
Authors: Wei Hou , Xu Lu , Su Tao , Wu Yunxiao , Liu Yujuan , Wei Yangao
Published: December 2020

Background: This study aims at verifying the effect of non-coding RNA SNHG16 on promotes NPC cell progression via binding miR-23b-3p.Methods: The expression of non-coding RNA SNHG16 was detected by qRT-PCR in cell lines including c666-1 and HONE-1. Si-MCM6 and si-SNHG16 are transfected to cells to verify their effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis. MTT is used to measure cell viability while flow cytometry assay and transwell assay were used for cell apoptosis, cell cycle and invasion respectively. The expression level of MCM6 was determined by western blot. Relationships between mRNA MCM6 and lncRNA SNHG16 were explored by qRT-PCR and nude mouse tumorigenicity assay.Results: The MCM6 was overexpressed in NPC tissues and lncRNA SNHG16 showed the same trend. Those two factors were correlated with high cancer stage. The expression of MCM6 was decreased after si-SNHG16 and dual luciferase reporter system demonstrated their combine with miR-23b-3p. Further we explored the down-regulation of lncRNA SNHG16 could inhibit NPC cell proliferation, colony formation and also accelerate cell apoptosis rate. And this result could be altered by adding miR-23b-3p inhibitor.Conclusion: The lncRNA SNHG16 is able to promote the NPC proliferation via binding miR-23b-3p, which has potential for future treatment.
Overexpression of RING Finger Protein 126 is Associated with Poor Prognosis and Contributes to the Progression of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sun Zhaona , Chen Meiyuan , Li Ziping , Zhang Hong
Published: December 2020

BackgroundMore recently, E3 ubiquitin ligases are well-informed to be involved in tumor development, and genetic aberration of this family have been implicated in breast cancer and oral cancer. RING finger protein 126 (RNF126), a newly uncovered E3 ubiquitin ligase, targets multiple proteins to promote their degradation. This study aims to explore the expression pattern and functional role of RNF126 in lung adenocarcinoma (LAD). MethodsImmunohistochemical staining and real-time PCR were used to evaluate the expression pattern of RNF126 in normal lung tissue and LAD tissues. Western blot, cell proliferation and invasion assays were performed to investigate role of RNF126 in modulating LAD progression. Statistical analyses including Chi-square test, Kaplan-Meier test, Cox regression test, and Student’s t-test were conducted for both clinical and experimental data.ResultsWe find that both the mRNA and protein expression levels of RNF126 are elevated in LAD tissues, and its expression correlates with clinicopathologic features including tumor size and TNM stage. High expression of RNF126 indicates a poor prognosis of LAD patients. Gene perturbations reveal that RNF126 promotes LAD cells proliferation and xenograft growth. However, RNF126 exerts no significant effect on cell migration and invasion in LAD cells. ConclusionsOur clinical and cellular data suggest that targeting this molecule could potentially provide advantages for LAD patients with high expression of RNF126.
Genetic Diversity Analysis of Dermacentor Nuttalli within Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Gui Zheng , Wu Lin , Cai Hao , Fu-Shaoyin  , Yu Jing Feng , Mu Lan , Yan Si-Xiao
Published: December 2020

BackgroundTicks (Arthropoda, Ixodida), after mosquitoes, are the next most prevalent vector of infectious diseases; and are responsible for spreading a multitude of pathogens and threatening the health and welfare of animals and human beings. Yet, given the history of tick-borne pathogen infections in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous region of China, neither the genetic diversity nor the spatial distribution of haplotypes within ticks has been studied. MethodsWe characterized the haplotype distribution of Dermacentor nuttalli in four main pastoral areas of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous region, by sampling 109 individuals (recovered from sheep) in April-August 2019. The 16S rRNA gene, Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit Ⅰ, and the Internal Transcribed Spacer 2 region were amplified and sequenced from extracted DNA.Results 82 haplotypes were identified, the most prevalent of which was H32. 12 sequences (11 of all sequences) represented the most abundant haplotypes, with a highly scattered distribution. Total haplotype diversity was 0.98318, while total nucleotide diversity was 0.11369. Neutrality tests revealed negative results in the four locations analyzed, which is indicative of an excess of recently derived haplotypes. Fixation index values (FST) indicate that the degree of genetic differentiation amongst some sampled populations were small, while others were moderate. Conclusion The genetic diversity of D.nuttalli populations in our region can likely adapt to different geographical environments, thereby leading to genetic diversity, and creating genetic differentiation amongst different populations. However, genetic differentiation is cryptic and does not form the pedigree geographical structure.
The Effects of the Field Cold Stress in the Harvest Period on the Quality and Curing Characteristics of Tobacco Leaves
Authors: Li Yan , Ren Ke , Hu Mengyang , He Xian , Gu Kaiyuan , Hu Binbin , Su Jiaen , Jin Yan , Gao Wenyou , Yang Daosheng , Li Folin , Zou Congming
Published: December 2020

Background: Climate change in high-altitude areas causes tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) in its mature period to be subjected to cold stress, which damages the yield and quality of tobacco leaves. We found that abrupt diurnal temperature difference (the daily temperature drops more than 20℃), along with rainfall occurred in the tobacco-growing areas at an altitude above 2450 m, which caused cold stress to tobacco in field. Results: The change process of the surface color of tobacco leaves was normal to dark green (within 1 to 2 d), to purple red (within 2 to 3 d), then dark red (within 3 to 4 d), and finally off-white (within 4 to 6 d), the final leaves appear obvious large areas browning, and the curing availability was extremely poor. Further research found the quality of fresh tobacco leaves, the content of key chemical components, and the quality of production are greatly reduced by cold stress. The reason was cold stress in high altitude environment destroyed the antioxidant enzyme system of mature flue-cured tobacco. Cold stress in high altitude environment destroyed the antioxidant enzyme system of mature flue-cured tobacco. The quality of fresh tobacco leaves, the content of key chemical components, and the quality of production are greatly reduced by cold stress.Conclusion: In conclusion, this study confirmed that the field cold stress in high-altitude tobacco areas was the main reason for the obvious browning tobacco leaves during the tobacco curing process. This adversity environment seriously damaged the quality of tobacco leaves.
Circulating Omentin-1, Insulin Resistance and Lipid Profile Responses Following an Eight-week Aerobic Training Intervention Among Male Smokers 
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Maysam , Heidarianpour Ali , Tavassoli Hassan
Published: December 2020

Background: Omentin-1 is a recently discovered circulating adipokine that plays a crucial role in modulating insulin resistance and diabetes. We investigated the effect of eight weeks of aerobic exercise training on serum omentin-1, insulin resistance and lipid profile in the smokers and non-smokers with normal weight. Methods: Nineteen male healthy and twenty male smokers were randomly assigned into healthy control group (C), healthy exercise group (E), control smoker group (CS) and exercise smoker group (ES). Exercise groups participated in an eight-week aerobic exercise training program (three times a week, 20-35 min per session at 55%-70% of maximum heart rate). Serum omentin-1 and insulin values were determined by ELISA and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), glucose and lipid profile was measured before and after the intervention. Paired samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance (One-way ANOVA) and post-hoc Tukey test were applied to analyze the data (p<0.05).Results: Aerobic exercise improved both serum omentin-1 and high lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the exercise groups (p<0.05). Also, Exercise training reduced insulin, blood sugar, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels (p<0.05). Omentin-1 was significantly correlated with insulin (r=-0.40, P=0.01), HOMA-IR (r=-0.38, P=0.04), TG (r=-0.40, P=0.01), TC (r=-0.49, P=0.02), LDL-C (r=-0.70, P=0.02) and HDL-C (r=0.55, P=0.03).Conclusion: The findings suggest that aerobic exercise-induced changes in omentin-1 in exercise trained smokers may be associated with the beneficial effects of exercise on reduced insulin resistance and lipid profile.
Survival Status and Determinants of Mortality Among Severely Malnourished Children Aged 0-59 Months Admitted to Jinka Hospital, South Omo Zone, Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study 
Authors: Abiyu Shegaw , Gobena Tesfaye , Egata Gudina
Published: December 2020

Sever acute malnutrition (SAM) remains a major public health problem contributing to morbidity and mortality among children aged 0-59 months. However, little is known about the survival status and determinants of mortality among children admitted to stabilization centers (SC) in Ethiopia particularly in study setting. The objective: to assess the survival status and determinants of mortality among severely malnourished children aged 0-59 months admitted to SC in Jinka general hospital from September 1, 2014 to August 30, 2018. Hospital based retrospective cohort study design was used among 588 severely malnourished children aged 0-59 months admitted to SC of Jinka general hospital from March 20-30, 2019. Simple random sampling method was used to select medical records of the study participants. Proportional hazard assumption over time was checked by Schoenfeld’s global test. The Kaplan-Mei­er survival curve with log-rank test was used to compare survival across groups. Bivariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression was used to assess the association between each independent variable and the outcome variable. Level of statistical significance was declared at p less than 0.05. Among cohort of children studied, nearly 11% of children were died during follow up. The overall mean survival time was 38 days, 95% CI :( 36.3, 39.7).Urban residence [AHR=2.24, 95% CI: (1.17, 4.30)], presence of dehydration [AHR =3.94, 95% CI:(1.89, 8.22)], presence of shock [AHR=4.15, 95% CI:(2.01, 8.55)], altered body temperature [AHR= 2.01, 95% CI:(1.01, 3.91)], failure to take F100 formula milk [AHR= 4.87, 95%CI:(2.75, 8.63)] and oral antibiotics [AHR=3.57, 95%CI:(1.88,6.77)] were identified to be the independent determinants of mortality The mortality rate for severely undernourished children was higher than global sphere standard and national protocol.Societal and individual level determinants of mortality were identified. Therefore, interventions to reduce mortality should focus on altered clinical conditions and comorbidities/ infections.
Identification of 11 candidate structured noncoding RNA motifs in humans by comparative genomics
Authors: Hou Lijuan , Xie Jin , Wu Yaoyao , Wang Jiaojiao , Duan Anqi , Ao Yaqi , Liu Xuejiao , Yu Xinmei , Yan Hui , Perreault Jonathan , LI SANSHU
Published: December 2020

Background
Only 1.5% of the human genome encodes proteins, while most of the remaining encodes noncoding RNAs (ncRNA). Many ncRNAs form structures and perform many important functions. Accurately identifying structured ncRNAs in the human genome and discovering their biological functions remain a major challenge.
Results
Here, we have established a pipeline (CM-line) with the following features for analyzing the large genomes of humans and other animals. First, we selected species with larger genetic distances to facilitate the discovery of covariations and compatible mutations. Second, we used CMfinder, which can generate useful alignments even with low sequence conservation. Third, we removed repetitive sequences and known structured ncRNAs to reduce the workload of CMfinder. Fourth, we used Infernal to find more representatives and refine the structure. We reported 11 classes of structured ncRNA candidates with significant covariations in humans. Functional analysis showed that these ncRNAs have variable functions. Some may regulate circadian clock genes through poly (A) signals (PAS); some may regulate the elongation factor (EEF1A) and the T-cell receptor signaling pathway by cooperating with RNA binding proteins.
Conclusions
By searching for important features of RNA structure from large genomes, the CM-line has revealed the existence of a variety of novel structured ncRNAs. Functional analysis provides evidence for the potential biological functions of some newly found ncRNA motifs. The pipeline we have established for the discovery of structured ncRNAs and the identification of their functions can also be applied to analyze other large genomes.
Plastid phylogenomic insights into the evolution of Distylium (Hamamelidaceae)
Authors: Dong Wenpan , Liu Yanlei , Xu Chao , Gao Yongwei , Zhang Zhixiang , Yuan Qingjun , Suo Zhili , Sun Jiahui
Published: December 2020

Background: Most Distylium species are endangered. Distylium species mostly display homoplasy in their flowers and fruits, and are classified primarily based on leaf morphology. However, leaf size, shape, and serration vary tremendously making it difficult to use those characters to identify most species and a significant challenge to address the taxonomy of Distylium. To infer robust relationships and identify variable markers to identify Distylium species, we sequenced most of the Distylium species chloroplast genome. Results: The Distylium chloroplast genome size was 159,041–159,127 bp and encoded 80 protein-coding, 30 transfer RNAs, and 4 ribosomal RNA genes. There was a conserved gene order displayed and a typical quadripartite structure. Phylogenomic analysis based on whole chloroplast genome sequences yielded a highly resolved phylogenetic tree and formed a monophyletic group containing four Distylium clades. A dating analysis suggested that Distylium originated in the Oligocene (34.39 Ma) and diversified within approximately 1 Ma. The evidence shows that Distylium is a rapidly radiating group. Four highly variable markers, such as matK-trnK, ndhC-trnV, ycf1, and trnT-trnL, and 74 polymorphic simple sequence repeats were discovered in the Distylium plastomes. Conclusions: The plastome sequences had sufficient polymorphic information to resolve phylogenetic relationships and identify species accurately.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Revealed Candidate Genes Potentially Related to Desiccation Sensitivity of Recalcitrant Quercus variabilis Seeds
Authors: Li Dongxing , Li Yingchao , Qian Jialian , Liu Xiaojuan , Xu Huihui , Zhang Guowei , Ren Junjie , Wang Libing , Zhang Lu , Yu Haiyan
Published: December 2020

Background: Chinese cork oak (Quercus variabilis) is a widely distributed and highly valuable deciduous broadleaf tree from both ecological and economic perspectives. Seeds of Q. variabilis are recalcitrant, i.e., sensitive to desiccation, which affects their storage and long-term preservation of germplasm. However, little is known about the underlying mechanism of desiccation sensitivity of Q. variabilis seeds. Results: In this study, the seeds were desiccated with silica gel for 0 day (control, CK), one day (T1) to 15 days (T15). After desiccation, the transcriptomic profiles of these different desiccation stages were compared using the Quercus suber genome as a reference, as well four key stages (CK, T2, T4 and T11) of desiccation sensitivity of Q. variabilis seeds through germination test were identified. A total of 4405, 4441, and 5907 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in T2 vs CK, T4 vs CK, and T11 vs CK, respectively. Among them, 2219 DEGs were overlapped in the three comparison groups. KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes) enrichment analysis showed that these DEGs were enriched into 124 pathways, such as "plant hormone signal transduction" and "glycerophospholipid metabolism". DEGs related to hormone synthesis and signal transduction (ZEP, YUC, PYR, ABI5, ERF1B, etc), stress response proteins (LEA D-29, HSP70, etc), and phospholipase D (PLD1) were detected during seed desiccation. These genes and their interactions may regulate the desiccation sensitivity of Q. variabilis seeds. Finally, a possible work model was proposed to show the molecular regulation mechanism of desiccation sensitivity in recalcitrant Q. variabilis seedsConclusions: Our study is the first on the molecular regulation mechanism of desiccation sensitivity of Q. variabilis seeds by using RNA-Seq and propose a possible work model. Our findings could make a great contribute to seed storage and long-term conservation of germplasm resources of recalcitrant seeds in the future.
Intelligent IoT Systems for Civil Infrastructure Monitoring: A Research Roadmap
Authors: Bertino Elisa , Jahanshahi Mohammad , Singla Ankush , Wu Rih-Teng
Published: December 2020

This paper address the problem of efficient and effective data collection and analytics for applications such as civil infrastructure monitoring and emergency management. Such problem requires the development of techniques by which data acquisition devices, such as IoT devices, can: (a) perform local analysis of collected data; and (b) based on the results of such analysis, autonomously decide further data acquisition. The ability to perform local analysis is critical in order to reduce the transmission costs and latency as the results of an analysis are usually smaller in size than the original data. As an example, in case of strict real-time requirements, the analysis results can be transmitted in real-time, whereas the actual collected data can be uploaded later on. The ability to autonomously decide about further data acquisition enhances scalability and reduces the need of real-time human involvement in data acquisition processes, especially in contexts with critical real-time requirements. The paper focuses on deep neural networks and discusses techniques for supporting transfer learning and pruning, so to reduce the times for training the networks and the size of the networks for deployment at IoT devices. We also discusses approaches based on machine learning reinforcement techniques enhancing the autonomy of IoT devices
Temporal patterns of suicide and circulatory system disease-related mortality are inversely correlated in several countries
Authors: Kaufman Marc , Fitzmaurice Garrett
Published: December 2020

Background Nearly 800,000 suicides occur worldwide annually and suicide rates are increasing faster than population growth. Unfortunately, the pathophysiology of suicide remains poorly understood, which has hindered suicide prevention efforts. However, mechanistic clues may be found by studying effects of seasonality on suicide and other mortality causes. Suicides tend to peak in spring-summer periods and nadir in fall-winter periods while circulatory system disease-related mortality tends to exhibit the opposite temporal trends. This study aimed to determine for the first time whether monthly temporal cross-correlations exist between suicide and circulatory system disease-related mortality at the population level. If so and if common biological factors moderate risks for both mortality types, such factors may be discoverable and utilized to improve suicide prevention.Methods We conducted time series analyses of monthly mortality data from northern (England and Wales, South Korea, United States) and southern (Australia, Brazil) hemisphere countries during the period 2009-2018 (N=41.8 million all-cause mortality cases). We used a Poisson regression variant of the standard cosinor model to determine cross-correlations between monthly mortality rates from suicide and from circulatory system diseases.Results Suicide and circulatory disease-related mortality temporal patterns were negatively correlated in Australia (-0.32), Brazil (-0.57), South Korea (-0.32), and in the United States (-0.66), but no temporal correlation was discernable in England and Wales.Conclusions The negative temporal cross-correlations between these mortality types we found in 4 of 5 countries studied suggest that seasonal factors broadly and inversely moderate risks for circulatory disease-related mortality and suicide. Since the seasonal factors of temperature and light exert opposite effects on suicide and circulatory disease-related mortality in several countries, we propose that physiologically-adaptive circulatory system responses to heat and light may increase risk for suicide and should be studied to determine whether they affect suicide risk. For example, heat and light increase production and release of the bioactive gas nitric oxide and reduce circulatory system disease by relaxing blood vessel tone, while elevated nitric oxide levels are associated with suicidal behavior, inverse effects that parallel the inverse temporal mortality patterns we detected.
Broad respiratory testing to identify SARS-CoV-2 viral co-circulation and inform diagnostic stewardship in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Marshall Natalie C. , Kariyawasam Ruwandi M. , Zelyas Nathan , Diggle Mathew A.
Published: December 2020

Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection can present with a broad clinical differential that includes many other respiratory viruses; therefore, accurate tests are crucial to distinguish true COVID-19 cases from pathogens that do not require urgent public health interventions. Co-circulation of other respiratory viruses is largely unknown during the COVID-19 pandemic but would inform strategies to rapidly and accurately test patients with respiratory symptoms.Methods: This study retrospectively examined 298,415 respiratory specimens collected from symptomatic patients for SARS-CoV-2 testing in the three months since COVID-19 was initially documented in the province of Alberta, Canada. By focusing on 52,285 specimens that were also tested with the Luminex Respiratory Pathogen Panel for 17 other pathogens, this study examines the prevalence of 18 potentially co-circulating pathogens and their relative rates in prior years versus since COVID-19 emerged, including four endemic coronaviruses. Results: SARS-CoV-2 was identified in 2.2% of specimens. Parallel broad multiplex testing detected additional pathogens in only 3.4% of these specimens: significantly less than in SARS-CoV-2-negative specimens (p < 0.0001), suggesting very low rates of SARS-CoV-2 co-infection. Furthermore, the overall co-infection rate was significantly lower among specimens with SARS-CoV-2 detected (p < 0.0001). Finally, less than 0.005% of all specimens tested positive for both SARS-CoV-2 and any of the four endemic coronaviruses tested, strongly suggesting neither co-infection nor cross-reactivity between these coronaviruses. Conclusions: Broad respiratory pathogen testing rarely detected additional pathogens in SARS-CoV-2-positive specimens. While helpful to understand co-circulation of respiratory viruses causing similar symptoms as COVID-19, ultimately these broad tests were resource-intensive and inflexible in a time when clinical laboratories face unprecedented demand for respiratory virus testing, with further increases expected during influenza season. A transition from broad, multiplex tests toward streamlined diagnostic algorithms targeting respiratory pathogens of public health concern could simultaneously reduce the overall burden on clinical laboratories while prioritizing testing of pathogens of public health importance. This is particularly valuable with ongoing strains on testing resources, exacerbated during influenza seasons.