bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of a High-Density Genetic Map via Genome Resequencing and QTL Detection for Key Fiber Traits in Asiatic Cotton
Authors: Li Yaohua , Mo Tong , Ran Lingfang , Zeng Jianyan , Wang Chuannan , Zhong Ziman , Liang Aimin , Xiao Yuehua
Published: August 2020

Background: Asiatic cotton (Gossypium arboreum, genome A2) is one of diploid cotton species producing spinnable fibers. However, few studies on the genetic mechanism of key fiber traits of Asiatic cotton have been reported. Sequencing technology advancement and the release of Asiatic cotton genome made it possible to construct a high-density SNP genetic map and further untapped QTL detection.Results: The Asiatic cotton cultivars SXY No.1 and CSLZ were crossed to develop a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population with 189 lines. Whole genome resequencing technology was employed to construct a high-density genetic map that covered 1980.17 cM with an average distance of 0.61 cM between adjacent markers. Based on fiber quality and yield component trait data from three environments, a total of 177 QTL were identified for 8 key fiber traits explaining 5.0-37.4% of the phenotypic variance. Besides, 48 stable QTL, including 15 for upper quartile length (UQL), 18 for fiber fineness (FF), 1 for immature fiber content (IFC), 4 for fiber neps count (FNC), 3 for lint percentage (LP), 7 for seed index (SI), were detected in more than one environment.Conclusions: Using a RIL population and whole genome resequencing strategy, this study presented a high-density genetic map of G. arboreum and identified 48 stable QTL for 6 key fiber traits (UQL, FF, IFC, FNC, LP, SI). Our work laid solid foundation for subsequent fine mapping of QTL for key fiber traits and cloning of controlling genes.
Gut microbiome, a potential indicator for differential diagnosis of major depressive disorder and general anxiety disorder
Authors: Dong Zaiquan , Shen Xiaoling , Hao Yanni , Li Jin , Li Haoran , Xu Haizheng , Kuang Weihong
Published: August 2020

Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) and general anxiety disorder (GAD) share many common features, leading to many challenges in their differential diagnosis. Given the importance of the microbiota-gut-brain axis, we aimed to investigate the differences in gut microbiota between representative cases of these two diseases and sought to develop a microbiome-based approach for their differential diagnosis.Methods We enrolled 23 patients with MDD, 21 patients with GAD, and 10 healthy subjects (health control, HC) in the present study. We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis to determine the microbial compositions of gut microbiome based on Illumina Miseq according to Illumina’s standard protocol.Results We found that patients with MDD or GAD exhibited significant differences in the relative abundance of gut microbiota. We identified the microbial signatures of subjects with MDD and GAD relative to HC and found differences in levels of Faecalibacterium and LachnospiraceaeND3007group. Moreover, we also found correlations between the bacteria and neuroendocrine and clinical symptoms, namely, a significant negative correlation between Fusicatenibacter and free thyroxine(FT4) in MDD, significant negative correlation between Fusicatenibacter and cortisol (PTC) in GAD, positive correlation between LachnospiraceaeND3007group and sleep disturbance factor of Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and negative correlation between LachnospiraceaeND3007group and PTC (all P<0.05).Conclusions The present study elucidated a unique gut microbiome signature associated with MDD and GAD that could facilitate differential diagnosis and targeted therapy.
Plasmodium vivax infection compromises reticulocyte stability.
Authors: Clark Martha , Kanjee Usheer , Rangel Gabriel , Chery Laura , Mascarenhas Anjali , Gomes Edwin , Rathod Pradipsinh , Brugnara Carlo , Ferreira Marcello , Duraisingh Manoj
Published: August 2020

The structural integrity of the host red blood cell (RBC) must be maintained for propagation of Plasmodium spp. during the disease causing blood-stage of malaria infection. Plasmodium vivax infection is restricted to reticulocytes. To assess the impact of P. vivax infection on reticulocyte stability, we developed a flow cytometry-based assay capable of measuring osmotic stability within heterogeneous RBC populations. We found that P. vivax preferred young reticulocytes are more osmotically stable than older reticulocytes and normocytes, and P. vivax infection decreased reticulocyte stability to levels observed for RBC disorders that cause hemolytic anemia. Moreover, P. vivax reticulocyte destabilization was more significant than P. falciparum normocyte destabilization. Finally, we found that P. vivax new permeability pathways contribute to the decreased osmotic stability of infected-reticulocytes. These results reveal a key vulnerability of P. vivax that could be manipulated to yield both in vitro culture and novel therapeutics.
Machine Learning Identifies the miR-196b and miR-34c-5p as the Chemotherapy Response Biomarkers of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lan Yuanmin , Xue Jiqing , Chen Liang , Wu Dongwei , Wang Wei , Shen Kezhen , Chen Piji
Published: August 2020

BackgrooundLung adenocarcinoma is one of the most common malignant lung cancers. Although platinum-based chemotherapy is the first-line adjuvant treatment for middle and late stage lung adenocarcinoma, the response of chemotherapy varies between patients. Moreover, there are no effective biomarkers that could predict chemotherapy response in clinical practice. MiRNAs that are stable in all types of body fluid have demonstrated their diagnostic and prognostic capacity in variety of cancers. Here, we utilized three different machine learning algorithms to identify miRNA signatures specific to chemotherapy response in lung cancer. MethodsThrough a public dataset, a panel of miRNAs for response to chemotherapy was identified by Machine Learning. The predictive capacity was determined by the receiver operation curve. A cohort involving 30 patients with lung adenocarcinoma was utilized for validate the miRNA panel. ResultsMachine Learnings identified five chemotherapy response featured miRNAs (miR-196b, miR-34c-5p, miR-181b, miR-27b and miR-26a). The putative targets of these miRNA signatures are enriched in the biosynthesis. Two of these miRNA signatures (miR-196b and miR-34c-5p) were validated for their chemotherapy response prediction in our 30 serum samples of lung adenocarcinoma with the accuracy of 0.90 and 0.93, respectively. ConclusionsOur study demonstrates circulating miRNA could potentially be predictive biomarker for chemotherapy response in lung adenocarcinoma.
Tumor infiltrated macrophage-the fighter defends against recurrence of stage Ⅱcolorectal cancer
Authors: Yang Wen-Jing , Wang Xiao-Min , Zhang Gan-Lin , Yu Ming-Wei , Cao Ke-Xin , Tan Si-Yu , Yang Guo-Wang
Published: August 2020

BackgroundBiomarkers which can robustly predict the recurrence of stage II colorectal cancer (CRC) have been urgent needed. Immune cells highly related to the recurrence and prognosis of CRC. However, whether the immune cells take part in the recurrence of stage II CRC has not known.MethodsExplored the roles and possible mechanism of immune cells in the recurrence of stage II CRC by public databases.ResultsTumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) analysis indicated the macrophage infiltration level in stage II CRC: Significantly higher in the nonrecurrence group than that in the recurrence group; Significantly negative correlated with the recurrence-related hub gene transferrin (TF); Significantly positive correlated with the improved disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). And macrophage infiltration related-gene recurrent model (GRM) (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.906) provide a better performance than the GRM established previously (AUC = 0.882) to predict the recurrence of stage II CRC. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) analysis indicated macrophage (M1) infiltrated in the tumor microenvironment (TME) defending against recurrence as a dynamic process: M1 was activated by receiving the stimulus signals (LPS/IFN- γ) which released by CRC cells, then infiltrating and recognizing the tumor to secrete IL-6 to directly or indirectly act on TF or create anti-tumor TME to kill tumor cells.ConclusionsThis study maybe provides a novel immunological perspective to explore the mechanism of recurrence and improve clinical practice performance in stage II CRC.
A Pilot Study on Plasma Iipidomic Profile of Giant Pulmonary Bulla
Authors: Guo Zhifeng , Yan Furong , Xu Yuan , Zeng Yiming
Published: August 2020

Background: The symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and giant pulmonary bulla (GPB) also called giant emphysematous bulla (GEB) is too similar to distinguish, and the treatment of the two diseases are completely different because of the different pathology. We investigated the plasma lipid profiles from patients of COPD and GPB to find targeted lipid changes responsible for differentiation between two diseases.Methods: Plasma was collected from 9 patients with COPD, and 10 patients with COPD and GPB. Extracted lipids were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (HPLC-QqQ-MS) to characterize lipid profiles. Principal components analysis (PCA), orthogonal projection to latent structures-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and variable importance in projection (VIP) scores were used to estimate the importance of each lipid variable.Results: The HPLC-QqQ-MS method identified 582 kinds of lipids at negative mode, and 577 kinds of lipids at positive mode. Lipid profiles were significantly different between COPD and GPB. Principal discriminant phospholipids between COPD and GPB were LPC(16:1)+AcO, LPC(16:0)+AcO, LPC(18:2)+AcO, LPC(18:1)+AcO, PC(16:0/22:5)+AcO, PC(18:2/18:2)+AcO, LPE(18:0)-H, LPE(16:0)-H, LPE(18:2)-H, PE(18:1/18:2)-H and FFA(24:0)(GPB group were significantly decreased compared to COPD group, VIP>1 and P<0.05).Conclusions: Our study provides insights into the alteration of the plasma lipid profile of GPB patients, commonly resulting from COPD, that may lead to improved GPB treatment and differentiation of this disease from COPD. Furthermore, LPC (16:0) +AcO was found to have a high potential to be a possible biomarker to distinguish the two diseases.
Novel biomarkers and prediction model for the pathological complete response to neoadjuvant treatment of triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Han Yiqun , Wang Jiayu , Xu Binghe
Published: August 2020

Background: To develop and validate a prediction model for the pathological complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).Methods: We systematically searched Gene Expression Omnibus, ArrayExpress, and PubMed for the gene expression profiles of operable TNBC accessible to NCT. The molecular heterogeneity was detected with hierarchical clustering method, and the biological profiles of differentially expressed genes were investigated by Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Next, the machine-learning algorithms including random-forest analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis were synchronously performed and, then, the intersected proportion of genes were undergone binary logistic regression to fulfill variables selection. The predictive response score (pRS) system was built as the product of the gene expression and coefficient obtained from logistic analysis. Last, the cohorts were randomly divided in a 7:3 ratio into training cohort and validation cohort for the introduction of robust model, and a nomogram was constructed with the independent predictors for pCR rate.Results: A total of 217 individuals from four cohort datasets (GSE32646, GSE25065, GSE25055, GSE21974) with complete clinicopathological information were included. Based on the microarray data, a six-gene panel (ATP4B, FBXO22, FCN2, RRP8, SMERK2, TET3) was identified. A robust nomogram, adopting pRS and clinical tumor size stage, was established and the performance was successively validated by calibration curves and receiver operating characteristic curves with the area under curve 0.704 and 0.756, respectively. Results of GSEA revealed that the biological processes including apoptosis, hypoxia, mTORC1 signaling and myogenesis, and oncogenic features of EGFR and RAF were in proactivity to attribute to an inferior response.Conclusions: This study provided a robust prediction model for pCR rate and revealed potential mechanisms of distinct response to NCT in TNBC, which were promising and warranted to further validate in the perspective.
ACE2 Protein-protein Interaction Networks Reveal Potential Druggable Targets for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Xia Qiaoxi , Chen Mantong , Zhou Xiao , Lin Ling , Zhao Yan , Zheng Xiaoqi , Huang Meihui , Wang Shaohong , Du Zepeng
Published: August 2020

Background The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has infected more than 10 million people, killed over 500,000 so far. Currently, no effective drugs are available to treat this infectious disease, due to limited knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection. ACE2 (angiotensin I converting enzyme 2) has long been identified as the major receptor for coronavirus entry the host cells. Methods In this study, we constructed the protein-protein interaction networks (PPIN) based on ACE2 and its interacting proteins, combined with the expression change and co-expression relationship. The potential drugs targeting the proteins in the PPIN were explored.Results ACE2 and its interacting proteins AAMP and HRAS are obviously increased, and their PPIN show distinguishing expression patterns during the COVID-19 progression. At least six pathways are activated for the host cell in the response to the virus. Moreover, drug-target networks were built to provide important clues to block ACE2 and its interacting proteins. Except the reported four drugs for ACE2, its interacting protein CALM1 and HRAS are great potentially druggable. We also considered the path initiated from ACE2 to nucleus by cascades of interaction, especially for the transcription factors in the PPIN which are also druggable. Conclusion In summary, this study provides new insight into the disruption of the biological response to virus mediated by ACE2, but also its cascade interacting proteins when considering of PPIN.
Effects of Whole Body Vibration exercise on Lumbar-Abdominal Muscles Activation for patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: dong yulin , wang huifang , Zhu Yan , Chen Binlin , Zheng Yili , liu xiaochen , qiao jun , wang xueqiang
Published: August 2020

BackgroundWhole body vibration (WBV) training as an intervention method can cure chronic low back pain (CLBP). Different WBV parameters exert different effects on lumbar-abdominal muscle performance. Currently, there is a lack of study researched the influence of WBV training on patients with CLBP by lumbar–abdominal muscle activity. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate how WBV and exercise and their interactions influence lumbar-abdominal muscle activity in patients with CLBP.Methodsa group of ambulatory patients with chronic low back pain. Muscle activities of the multifidus, erector spinae, abdominal oblique externus muscle and the rectus abdominis muscle were measured by surface electromyography, whereas participants performed 4 different exercises during three whole body vibration conditions and a no-vibration condition in a single experimental session.ResultsCompared with the same exercises without whole body vibration, muscle activity increased when whole body vibration was added to the exercises. The frequency and exercise presented significant effects on the root mean square of multifidus, whereas exercise and frequency also resulted in significant interaction effects.ConclusionAdding whole body vibration to exercise could increase muscle activation of lumbar–abdominal muscle in patients with CLBP. The optimum frequency for lumbar–abdominal muscles is 15 Hz. The best exercises include plank for multifidus and erector spinae, V crunch for rectus abdominis and single bridge for abdominal oblique externus.Trial registration:ChiCTR-TRC-13003708. Registered 19 October 2013, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=5852
The salivary metatranscriptome as an accurate diagnostic indicator of oral cancer
Authors: Banavar Guruduth , Ogundijo Oyetunji , Toma Ryan , Rajagopal Sathyapriya , Lim Yenkai , Tang Kai Dun , Camacho Francine , Torres Pedro , Gline Stephanie , Parks Matthew , Kenny Liz , Dimitrova Nevenka , Perlina Ally , Tily Hal , Amar Salomon , Vuyisich Momchilo , Punyadeera Chamindie
Published: August 2020

Despite advances in cancer treatment, the five-year mortality rate for oral cancers (OC) is 40%, mainly due to the lack of early diagnostics. To advance early diagnostics for high-risk and average-risk populations, we developed and evaluated machine-learning (ML) classifiers using metatranscriptomic data from saliva samples (n=433) collected from oral premalignant disorders (OPMD), OC patients (n=71) and normal controls (n=171). Our diagnostic classifiers yielded a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) up to 0.9, sensitivity up to 83% (92.3% for stage 1 cancer) and specificity up to 97.9%. Our metatranscriptomic signature incorporates both taxonomic and functional microbiome features, and reveals a number of previously known and novel taxa and functional pathways associated with OC. For the first time, we demonstrate the potential clinical utility of an AI/ML model for diagnosing OC early, opening a new era of non-invasive diagnostics, enabling early intervention and improved patient outcomes.
The impact of procalcitonin to C-reactive protein ratio (PCR) kinetics as a predictor of mortality in nosocomial bloodstream infections
Authors: Hakyemez Ismail Necati , Aslan Turan , Durdu Bulent
Published: August 2020

Background: This study was performed to investigate the combination of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) kinetics as a best marker in predicting mortality in patients with nosocomial blood stream infection (BSI).Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients ≥ 18 years of age with nosocomial BSIs hospitalized in intensive care units during the period from January 2016 to June 2018. Eighty-four patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Clinical, microbiological and biochemical data were compared in patients who survivors and deaths. Binary logistic regression analyses (backward LR) were used to identify independent risk factors. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to compare the predictive accuracy. The kinetic changes were expressed as Δ (delta) and defined the as difference between level on day 5 and level at day 1 of BSI.Results: Of the 84 included patients, 46 (58.4%) had survivors and 35 (41.6%) had deaths. In univariate analysis, renal disease (p = 0.007), cardiac disease (p = 0.042), septic shock (p = <0.001), maximum SOFA (p = <0.001) and APACHE-II (p <0.001), ΔCRP (p = 0.004), ΔPCT (p = <0.001), and ΔPCR (p = 0.025) were significantly higher in non-survivors than in survivors. In the logistic regression analysis, APACHE-II score (odds ratio (OR) = 1.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.20-1.78, p <0.001), ΔCRP (OR = 1.18, %95 CI =1.04-1.34, p = 0.009), ΔPCT (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.79-0.95, p = 0.001), and ∆PCR (OR = 36.78, 95% CI = 4.52-299.01, p = 0.001) were independent predictors of 28-day mortality. After a ROC analysis, the AUC of ∆PCR was higher than that of ∆PCT for mortality in ICU patients (0.745 vs. 0.712, p <0.001).Conclusions: The PCR kinetic was a strong independent predictor of mortality in patients with nosocomial BSIs in intensive care units. Especially in patients with CRP and PCT tested together, it is expected to be a fast and rational tool for clinical practice.
Geological Environmental and Socioeconomic Factors of Disease Spectrum in Chinese Population
Authors: GONG Jin
Published: August 2020

Through the correlation analysis of statistical data of provinces and autonomous regions, this paper has comprehensively, systematically and quantitativelystudied the natural geography, geological environment, socioeconomic, geochemical and hydrogeological constraints of endemic diseases, cancer and common diseases in mainland China. In order to prevent the rational design of medical experimental plan, provide a scientific basis. The results show that, the occurrence of different human diseases is subject to different environmental conditions. Keshan disease, Kashin-Beck disease, endemic goiter and fluorosis, in addition to soil selenium, groundwater iodine and fluoride, but also by a variety of environmental factors; Total nitrogen in soil has an promote effect to gastric cancer and liver cancer. The amount of nitrogen fertilizer has an effect to rectal cancer, pancreatic cancer and lymphatic cancer, and soil arsenic has significant inhibitory effect to lung cancer, pancreatic cancer and lymphatic cancer. River water hardness, salinity and soil calcium, magnesium and other elements for a variety of cancers may also have inhibitory effect. Cerebrovascular disease and myocardial infarction have shown the features of urban population in cold and droughts in the north; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and respiratory tract infections show the features of the population in the mountain mining and smelting industries; Chronic nephropathy reflects the characteristics of arsenic and sulfur poisoning in plateau areas; Alzheimer disease shows the characteristics of people in farming areas. The average content of elements in sediments of water system, the county territory of 26 longevity counties in China are relatively high compared with the national average, and the human beneficial elements are relatively high; while the harmful elements in human bodies are relatively low. If we make full use of soil (stream sediment) geochemical measurement data, combined with the results of this study, it is possible to greatly refine the spatial distribution prediction maps of population diseases in mainland China. The author believes that by improving the climatic and geographical conditions of residence and increasing the intake of certain chemical elements in an appropriate form(Especially the food chain diet structure), it will certainly play an important role in reducing the occurrence and development of diseases and improving human health.
Evaluation of immune cellular enzymes, oxidative and nitrosative Stress in Saudi Patients with Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Al-AHssa, before and after treatment
Authors: Saif Mossad Ahmad , Al-Mohammad Hamdan Ibrahim
Published: August 2020

Background Macrophages, within which Leishmania sp. replicate, generate large amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) to kill these parasites. Methods The aim of the present study was to assess oxidative, nitrosative stresses, and some immune enzymes in blood of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) patients before and after treatment as well as in control individuals. Serum activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidas (GSH-Px) and the levels of reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde (MAD) and nitric oxide (NO) as well as L-arginase, myeloperoxidase (MPO), adenosine deaminase (ADA) have been studied. Results The activities of the L-arginase, MPO and ADA, the levels of MDA and NO are significantly elevated (P < 0.001), while that of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px, and GSH level were significantly (P < 0.001) reduced in untreated patients compared with the corresponding activities of the treated and control individuals. The treatment ameliorated these agents in comparison to the untreated group but there was still variations between the values of treated and control groups. Conclusion These results suggested that oxidative and nitrusative stress may play an important role in the pathogenesis of untreated cutaneous leishmaniasis
Effects of grade B liver dysfunction on the level of free hexafluoroisopropanol of sevoflurane metabolites in patients with abdominal surgery
Authors: Yang Xiao-lin , Li Ming , Feng Yan , Zhang Guo-Yuan
Published: August 2020

Background: Study shows the metabolite, hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) from sevoflurane, has a strong inhibition on the central nervous system. This study aims to compare the level of free HFIP in the blood after inhaled a same concentration of sevoflurane in patients with normal liver function versus grade B liver dysfunction and observe its effect on patients’ recovery quality.Methods: Twenty four patients with normal liver function and twenty four patients with grade B liver dysfunction undergoing elective abdominal surgery were selected and assigned to group A and group B, respectively. All patients were inhaled sevoflurane (1.5MAC) for anesthesia about 3 h. The free HFIP concentration was determined at the time points of 0.5 h, 1 h, 2 h, 3 h after inhaled sevoflurane and 0.5 h, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h after discontinuation of sevoflurane, respectively. Patients’ eyes opening time, orientation recovery time, command response time and extubation time were observed after operation. The visual analogue scale (VAS) and Ramsay sedation score (RSS) were also evaluated at different time points after extubation. Results: Although the peak time of free HFIP in group B was 1 h later than that in group A, no significant differences were found in the peak concentration and other corresponding time points’ free HFIP concentrations between the two groups (P<0.05). All the eyes opening time, orientation recovery time, command response time and extubation time in group B were longer than those in group A (P<0.05). Compared to group A, a lower VAS score and a higher RSS score were found in group B at 0 min, 15 min, 30 min,1 h, 2 h and 3 h after extubation, respectively (P<0.05). Conclusion: The status of patients with grade B liver dysfunction does not affect the degree of sevoflurane metabolism. However, it can significantly prolong the peak time of free HFIP when compared with normal liver function.Trial registry number: Identified as ChiCTR 2000028901at http://www.chictr.org.cn/
Identification of key genes related to macrophage infiltration in gastric cancer based on WGCNA
Authors: Chen Haiyan , Zhang Cangang , Cao Shuai , Cao Meng , Zhang Nana , Adiila Ayarick Vivian , Zhong Jinjin , Liu Haibo , Wang Yili
Published: August 2020

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is rampant around the world. Most of the GC cases are detected in advanced stages with poor prognosis. The identification of marker genes for early diagnosis is of great significance. Studying the tumor environment is helpful to acknowledge the process of tumorigenesis, development, and metastasis.Methods: In GEO, 22 kinds of immune cell infiltration were calculated by CIBERSORT. Macrophages were discovered remarkably infiltrated higher in GC compared with normal tissues. WGCNA was utilized to construct the network and then identify key modules and genes related to macrophages in TCGA.Results: Finally, 18 hub genes were verified. In the PPI bar chart, the top 3 genes were chosen as hub genes involved in most pathways. On the TIMER and THPA websites, it is verified that the expression levels of CYBB, CD86 and C3AR1 genes in tumor tissues were higher than those in normal tissues.Conclusion: These genes may work as biomarkers or targets for accurate diagnosis and treatment of GC in the future. Our findings may be a new strategy for the treatment of GC.
Intraventricular neuroepithelial tumors: Surgical outcome, technical considerations and review of literature
Authors: Aftahy Amir Kaywan , Barz Melanie , Krauss Philipp , Liesche Friederike , Wiestler Benedikt , Combs Stephanie E. , Straube Christoph , Meyer Bernhard , Gempt Jens
Published: August 2020

Background
Intraventricular neuroepithelial tumors (IVT) are rare lesions and comprise different pathological entities such as ependymomas, subependymomas and central neurocytomas. The treatment of choice is neurosurgical resection, which can be challenging due to their intraventricular location. Different surgical approaches to the ventricles are described. Here we describe a large series of IVTs, its postoperative outcome at a single tertiary center and discuss suitable surgical approaches.
Methods
We performed a retrospective chart review at a single tertiary neurosurgical center between 03/2009-05/2019. We included patients that underwent resection of an IVT emphasizing on surgical approach, extent of resection, clinical outcome and postoperative complications.
Results
45 IVTs were resected from 03/2009 to 05/2019, 13 ependymomas, 21 subependymomas, 10 central neurocytomas and one glioependymal cyst. Median age was 52,5 years with 55.6% (22) male and 44.4% (20) female patients. Gross total resection was achieved in 93.3% (42/45). 84.6% (11/13) of ependymomas, 100% (12/21) of subependymomas, 90% (9/10) of central neurocytomas and one glioependymal cyst were completely removed. Postoperative rate of new neurological deficits was 26.6% (12/45). Postoperative new permanent cranial nerve deficits occurred in one case with 4th ventricle subependymoma and one in 4th ventricle ependymoma. Postoperative KPSS was 90% (IR 80–100). 31.1% of the patients improved in KPSS, 48.9% remained unchanged and 20% declined. Postoperative adverse events rate was 20.0%. Surgery-related mortality was 2.2%. The rate of shunt/cisternostomy-dependent hydrocephalus was 13.3% (6/45). 15.4% of resected ependymomas underwent adjuvant radiotherapy. Mean follow-up was 26,9 (± 30.1) months.
Conclusion
Our surgical findings emphasize satisfactory complete resection throughout all entities. Surgical treatment can remain feasible, if institutional experience is given. Satisfying long-term survival and cure is possible by complete removal. Gross total resection should always be performed under function-remaining aspects due to mostly benign or slow growing nature of IVTs. Further data is needed to evaluate standard of care and alternative therapy options in rare cases of tumor recurrence or in case of patient collective not suitable for operative resection.
Machine Learning in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Lee Chang Woo , Mantelakis Angelos , Tailor Bhavesh Vijay , Khajuria Ankur
Published: August 2020

Background: Machine learning describes a subfield of artificial intelligence which utilises statistical algorithms to identify patterns in large datasets. Based on previous learning, inferences or predictions can be made given novel data. Alongside its promising potential to revolutionise consumer technology, there has been growing interest in the application of machine learning algorithms to medical practice. The aim of this study is to evaluate the applications of machine learning in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery.Methods: A systematic search of EMBASE, MEDLINE and CENTRAL will be conducted from January 1990 to June 2020. Studies utilising machine learning as a tool for diagnosis, or to predict disease prognosis or post-operative outcomes in the field of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery will be included. The primary outcome of interest is the accuracy of machine learning models for clinical diagnosis, disease prognostication, and in predicting post-operative outcomes. This protocol adheres to the Preferred Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines.Discussion: To our knowledge, this will be the first systematic review to assimilate and critically appraise original research on the applications of machine learning across the field of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery. This review has the potential to inform the current state of this technology and guide future study of machine learning approaches within the specialty.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020192493
The Association Between Retinal Vessel Abnormalities and H-type Hypertension
Authors: Huang Kuankuan , Yun Wenwei , Huang Shan , Jia Yanwen , Zhang Zhixiang , Zhang Min
Published: August 2020

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between H-type hypertension and retinal vessel abnormalities. Methods: Hypertensive patients were retrospectively enrolled in this study. According to serum homocysteine (HCY), patients were divided into isolated hypertension and H-type hypertension group. Retinal fundus photography was used to evaluate the diameter of retinal vessels and retinopathy. Univariate and multivariate regression were used to investigate difference of retinal vessel abnormalities between H-type hypertension and isolated hypertension patients. Results: A total of 191 hypertensive patients were included, of which 85 were isolated hypertension and 106 were H-type hypertension. H-type hypertension patients had a higher ratio of retinopathy(P=0.004) and higher degree of retinal arteriosclerosis (P=0.005). CRAE(P=0.002) and AVR(P=0.001) were smaller in H-type hypertension group. Multivariate analysis showed that after adjusting for age, sex, course of hypertension and diabetes, H-type hypertension were still risk factor of retinopathy(OR, 2.259; 95%CI, 1.165—4.378; P=0.016), CRAE (B=-5.669; 95%CI, -9.452—-1.886; P=0.004), and AVR(B=-0.023; 95%CI,-0.039—-0.007; P=0.005). Conclusion: H-type hypertension may aggravate retinal vessel abnormalities compared with isolated hypertension.
Use of the Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire and the AD8 Questionnaire for Screening Depression in Older People in Communities
Authors: Wei Yi-Chia , Huang Li-Yuan , Lin Chemin , Shyu Yu-Chiau , Chen Chih-Ken
Published: August 2020

Background Depression presents with emotional and somatic symptoms, and sometimes cognitive complaints. On the other hand, depression is one of the important psychiatric symptoms of mild cognitive impairment and dementia.Methods Residents who were older than 50 years reported their depressive tendency using the Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire (TDQ) and cognitive complaints using the AD8 questionnaire and were assessed using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) and for objective cognitive evaluation using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).Results TDQ score (OR 1.154, p = 0.003) and AD8 score (OR 1.769, p = 0.018) were statistically significant in predicting current major depressive disorder (MDD) when adjustment were made for age, sex, sleep quality and cognitive performance. However, in elderly people with age ≥ 65, TDQ score failed to distinguish a diagnosis of current MDD from no such diagnosis (AUC 0.780, p = 0.063). A linear combination of TDQ and AD8 scores provided a new predictive score that successfully separated elderly people with MDD from those without it (AUC 0.875, p = 0.013). Finally, decision-tree learning was used to generate a classification tree for classifying people with and without current MDD. At the first decision level, value less than 29 from the sum of TDQ score and 4 folds of AD8 score 100% excluded people without current MDD.Conclusions The self-reported response to the TDQ is a feasible way to identify MDD in community-dwelling people. Combining TDQ and AD8 scores further improved detecting depression in older people in communities.
Multi-Analyte Liquid Biopsies for Treatment Guidance in Advanced Refractory Cancers: Findings of the LIQUID IMPACT Trial
Authors: Nagarkar Rajnish , Patil Darshana , Crook Timothy , Datta Vineet , Roy Shirsendu , Kate Shruti , Palwe Vijay , Akolkar Dadasaheb
Published: August 2020

Background

LIQUID IMPACT (CTRI/2019/02/017548) is a single arm, open label, phase II/III study to evaluate the feasibility of providing therapeutic guidance in cancers based on non-invasive interrogation of circulating tumor analytes in peripheral blood (Encyclopedic Liquid Biopsy: eLB). The study enrolled patients with solid organ cancers where the disease had progressed following systemic therapy failure, where no (further) viable standard of care (SoC) therapy options were available, and where invasive biopsies to obtain tumor tissue (for molecular profiling) were contraindicated.
Methods

Encyclopedic Liquid Biopsy (eLB) interrogated gene alterations in cell-free tumor DNA (ctDNA), and differentially expressed genes in exosomal mRNA. eLB also evaluated Circulating Tumor Associated Cells for expression of therapeutically relevant cell-surface signaling receptors as well as the chemoresistance profile towards systemic anticancer agents. Patients who received personalized combination therapy regimens based on eLB findings were evaluated radiologically to determine response to treatment, Objective Response Rate (ORR) and Quality of Life (QoL).
Results

At the time of submission of this manuscript, Partial Response (PR) was observed in 14 of 43 patients evaluable per protocol (ORR = 32.6%). Majority of patients reported stable to improved QoL.
Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that refractory cancers have latent vulnerabilities which can be identified via non-invasive eLB to design personalized label- and organ-agnostic treatment regimens to yield meaningful treatment benefit.
Trial registration

Clinical Trial Registry – India, CTRI/2019/02/017548 [Registered on: 02/08/2019] - http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pdf_generate.php?trialid=31265&EncHid=&modid=&compid=%27,%2731265det%27; Trial Registered Prospectively.
Plasma Levels of Phospholipids in Patients With COVID-19; A Promising Simple Biochemical Parameter to Evaluate the Disease Severity
Authors: Abdalla Mohammed , Ismail Noor Eldin Mohamed , mohamed ahmed h , Borik Rita M , ali Ali a , Mosaad Yasser O
Published: August 2020

Background Cronavirus-19 (COVID-19) pandemic is a worldwide public health problem knowing in China recently from December 25, 2019. Phospholipids are structural components of mammalian cytoskeleton and cell membranes. Phospholipids is an anionic lipid found in mammalian membranes in low amounts (1–2%) of the total phospholipids. Also, it suppressed viral attachment to the plasma membrane and subsequent replication in lung cells. Aim: The present study was carried out to explain the correlation between the plasma phospholipids as well as secretory phospholipase-A2α2 (sPLA2α2) and cytokine storm; tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin--1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL)-6 and interleukin-13 (IL-13_ levels of patients with COVID-19 to assess the infection severity. Methods: Serum samples from enrolled 34 patients with mild, moderate, and acute COVID-19 infection. Complete blood picture (CBC), plasma d-dimer, ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), lipid profile, phospholipids, sPLA2α2 and TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-13 as well as lung computed tomography (CT) imaging.Results: CBC showed that the presence of leukopenia, lymphopenia, eosinopenia in patient with mild, moderate, and acute COVID-19 infection. Also, significant increase in plasma d-dimer, CRP, ferritin, triacyclglycerols, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-13 levels as well as sPLA2α2 activity when compared to normal persons. However, plasma levels of phospholipids, cholesterol, HDL-C and LDL-C were decreased significantly in patient with acute COVID-19 infection only, when compared to normal persons. In addition, lung computed tomography (CT) scan showed that the presence of ground glass opacity (GGO), bronchial wall thickening, crazy paving sign as well as right, left, upper and lower lung predominant in patient with mild, moderate and acute COVID-19 infection. The levels of blood leukopenia, lymphopenia and eosinopenia as well as plasma phospholipids d-dimer, CRP, ferritin, cytokine storm and sPLA2α2 were pronounced in group of patients with acute COVID-19 infection more the mild and moderate one.Conclusion: The present study was showed that there is a correlation between plasma phospholipids depletion as well as elevation sPLA2α2 and cytokines storm with the severity of COVID-19 infection. Also, the plasma phospholipids levels can used to estimate COVID-19 infection severity and help to identify patients into three classes: mild, moderate and severe one.
SOCS2 serves as a prognostic indicator and is regulated by miR-7-5p in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Lu , Yu Kangkang , Zheng Yahui , Huo Meisi , Zhao Hao , Li Xiaoqi , Huang Chong , Zhang Jubo
Published: August 2020

Background

Suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) family members are essential components of negative regulation of cytokine signaling known to be involved in occurrence and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), while a comprehensive analysis of the correlation between SOCS family members and HCC has not yet been elucidated.
Methods

Differential expression analysis of SOCS genes was performed on TIMER, which was further validated by GSE94660 dataset from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Prognostic values of SOCS genes were analyzed by TIMER and GEPIA. TISIDB was used to assess association between SOCS2 expression, clinical stages and pathological grades of HCC, as well as SOCS2 expression across immune subtypes and iClusters. Differential expression of genes (DEGs) identification was tested by two-tail student’s t test using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) RNA-seq of HCC. And functional annotation of the DEGs was performed by Metascape. Fraction of Immune cells was estimated by CIBERSORT, and infiltration difference were compared by two-tail student’s t test. Genetic alteration identification and promoter methylation evaluation were analyzed by cBioPortal and DNMIVD, respectively. Starbase was used to predict potential miRNAs that target SOCS2. Differential expressions of candidate miRNAs were analyzed by dbMEMC, which was further validated by GSE22058 from GEO. Survival analysis of miRNA was performed with KM Plotter.
Results

Differential expression analysis showed SOCS2 and SOCS3 were significantly downregulated, while SOCS5 and SOCS7 were upregulated in HCC. Survival analysis revealed only SOCS2 mRNA had significant prognostic value in terms of overall survival and disease-free survival in HCC. Specifically, higher SOCS2 predicted improved outcome. Significant correlations were found between SOCS2 and pathological stage, grade, molecular subtypes and immune subtypes. When comparing SOCS2high versus SOCS2low patients, the DEGs were functionally enriched in metabolism of RNA, organic cyclic compound catabolic process, and rRNA processing in the nucleus and cytosol. Immune cell infiltration analysis showed resting memory CD4 T cells, γδ T cells, follicular helper T cells, regulatory T cells and M0 macrophages were associated with SOCS2 expression. Mechanistically, miR-7-5p was the potential contributor responsible for downregulation of SOCS2.
Conclusions

SOCS2 could be a promising prognostic indicator and a potential therapeutic target for HCC.
Factors predicting short-term and long-term mortality in ICU patients with a malignancy: the importance of SOFA and ECOG performance status
Authors: Zee Esther Nadine van der , Noordhuis Lianne M. , Epker Jelle L. , Leeuwen Nikki van , Wijnhoven Bas P.L. , Benoit Dominique D. , Bakker Jan , Kompanje Erwin J.O.
Published: August 2020

Background

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) triage decisions in patients with a malignancy can be difficult as clinicians have concerns about potential unfavourable outcomes. Therefore, clinicians may have doubts about the appropriateness of an ICU admission. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term mortality and performance status of critically ill patients with an active malignancy or a malignancy in their prior history admitted unplanned to the ICU. Furthermore, we aimed to compare the long-term mortality of those patients to the mortality of patients without a malignancy.
Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a large tertiary referral university hospital in the Netherlands. We categorized all adult patients with an unplanned admission to the ICU in 2017 in two groups: 1) the study population consisting of patients with an active malignancy and patients with a malignancy in their medical history (complete remission, CR) and 2) patients without a malignancy. Pearson’s Chi-square tests and Independent Samples T-Tests or the Mann-Whitney U tests were used to evaluate the long-term mortality, the primary objective was 2-year mortality.
Results

Of the 1046 unplanned ICU admissions, 125 (12%) patients had an active malignancy, 41 (3.9%) < 5 year CR and 33 (3.2%) ≥ 5 year CR. The 2-year mortality in the study population was significantly higher than in the population without a malignancy (67.4% and 40.2%, P < 0.001). The median performance status at 2 years after ICU admission in the study population was 1 (IQR 0–2). SOFA score (OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.10–1.42) and ECOG performance status of 2 (OR 11.23; 95% CI 2.66–47.33), 3 (OR 5.91; 95% CI 1.77–19.79) and 4 (OR 13.16; 1.85–93.74) were independently associated with 2-year mortality.
Conclusions

Two thirds of the study population died within 2 years after ICU admission, which is higher than in the population without a malignancy. However, the majority of the study population had a good performance status at 2 years after ICU admission. The severity of the critical illness and the performance status before ICU admission are independently associated with 2-year mortality and should be considered as main factors in ICU triage.
The Abundance and Diversity of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in the Atmospheric Environment of Biology Laboratories and Surroundings
Authors: Tao Yile , Yang Yue , Wang Jing
Published: August 2020

Background: Antibiotic resistance genes (ARG) have been considered as a global emerging threat to public health systems. Places including farms and hospitals where antibiotics are used, and wastewater treatment plants and landfills where antibiotics are discharged, have been the hot spots for studies. However, locations where ARGs are directly used, such as biology laboratories have been largely neglected. Methods: In this study, 11 Swiss biology laboratories working on different fields and located in the city center, suburb and rural area were studied to reveal the abundance and diversity of airborne ARGs in them and their surrounding areas with Colony-forming units (CFU) cultivation and quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR). Results: Most biology laboratories did not discharge significant amounts or varieties of ARGs and cultivate bacteria via air. No correlation was found between the number of CFUs and the abundance of 16S rRNA, but two clusters of correlated airborne ARGs, the animal husbandry related cluster, and city and hospital related cluster were identified in this study. Conclusions: Although most biology laboratories may not be the emission sources of variety of airborne ARGs, the ARGs in the animal husbandry related cluster which were abundant in the animal laboratories and aadA1 which was abundant in the laboratories working on other eukaryocyte need to be furtherly studied to make sure if they are potential health risks for the researchers.
Public financing in agricultural research development and rural poverty alleviation in West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) States
Authors: DAH Ollo , BASSOLET Toussaint Boubié
Published: August 2020

This paper analyzed the effects of public funding for agricultural research and development on rural poverty reduction through farm income in West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) countries. To conduct this analysis, an agricultural production function was developed that integrates public policies. In view of the scope of the analysis, a dynamic panel was developed to take into account the dynamics of agricultural income. The data used in this research were mainly taken from the databases of the World Bank, the African Development Bank and the FAO and cover the period from 2000 to 2016. The data were estimated using the Generalized Moment Method (GMM) in system. The results show that public spending on agricultural research and development contributes to reducing rural poverty through increased agricultural income. Thus, it is recommended that WAEMU states make efforts in the allocation of public resources in the area of agricultural research and development to boost the development of the agricultural sector and significantly reduce rural poverty.