bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Nomograms to Predict of Overall Survival and Cancer-Specific Survival of Patients of Metaplastic Breast Cancer
Authors: li Yongfeng , chen Daobao , xuan Haojun , Dragomir Mihnea P. , Calin George A. , Yang Hongjian , Chen Meng , Jin hongchuan
Published: October 2020

Background Metaplastic breast cancer (BMC) is a rare type of breast cancer with an increasing incidence, we aim to develop clinical nomograms to predict the overall survival and cancer-specific survival for patients with BMC.MethodsPatients data were collected from the SEER database between 1973 and 2015. All included patients were randomly assigned into the training and validation sets. Univariate and multivariate Cox analysis were performed to identify independent prognostic factors of MBC. These essential prognostic variables were combined to construct nomogram models to predict overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) in patients with MBC. Model performance was evaluated by concordance index (C-index) and calibration plots.ResultsA total of 1835 patients were collected and divided into the training (1223) and validation (612) groups. The multivariate Cox model identified age, TNM stage, T stage, and N stage, chemotherapy and radiotherapy as independent covariates associated with OS, while these variables except for age and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors of CSS. The nomogram constructed based on these covariates demonstrated excellent accuracy in estimating 3-, and 5-year OS and CSS, with a C-index of 0.759(95% CI, 0.746-0.772) for OS and 0.766 (95% CI, 0.751-0.781) for CSS in the training cohort. In the validation cohort, the nomogram-predicted C-index was 0.754 for OS (95%CI, 0.734-0.774) and 0.752 (95%CI, 0.728-0.776) for CSS. All calibration curves exhibited good consistency between predicted and actual survival.ConclusionsThese nomogram models established in this study can help enhance the accuracy of prognostic prediction, which may thereby improve individualized assessment of survival risks and facilitate to provide constructive therapeutic suggestions.
Differentiation of Primary Lung Cancer from Solitary Lung Metastasis in Patients with Colorectal Cancer Using Computed Tomography Features and Clinical Characteristics : A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Jong Eun , Jeong Won Gi , Kim Yun-Hyeon
Published: October 2020

Purpose: To evaluate the features of solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN) that can be used to differentiate between primary lung cancer (LC) and solitary lung metastasis (LM) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included SPNs resected in CRC patients between 2011 and 2019. The diagnosis of primary LC or solitary LM was based on histopathologic report by thoracoscopic wedge resection. Chest computed tomography (CT) images were assessed by two thoracic radiologists, and features were identified by consensus. Predictive parameters for the discrimination of primary LC from solitary LM were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results: We analyzed 199 patients (mean age, 65.95 years; 131 men). The clinical characteristics suggestive of primary LC rather than solitary LM was clinical stage I-II CRC (P < 0.001, odds ratio (OR): 21.70). The CT features of SPNs indicative of primary LC rather than solitary LM were a spiculated margin (P = 0.020, OR: 8.34), a sub-solid density (P < 0.001, OR: 115.56), and presence of an air-bronchogram (OR: 5.32; P = 0.032).Conclusions: CT features and clinical characteristics of SPNs in patients with CRC could help differentiate between primary LC and solitary LM.
Sagittal Surgical Resection for Treatment of Rib Tumors Involving Vertebral Bodies
Authors: Liu Bin , Yuan Zhenchao
Published: October 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to review recent clinical cases of patients treated in our care center who underwent a sagittal resection for rib tumors involving vertebral bodies, and to explore the local control after operation and related complications.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the hospitalization and post-operative follow-up records for all patients treated for rib tumors involving vertebral bodies in our center.Results: Sagittal surgical resection was conducted in 5 patients aged 34–65 years. Two patients had primary rib tumors and three had metastases at this site. Sagittal surgical resection was achieved in all cases by the removal of two to three affected ribs and associated vertebrae. There were no instances of perioperative mortality. Major complications occurred in 3 of 5 patients after this sagittal surgical resection, including 1 case of postoperative hemorrhage, 1 case of cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and 1 case of hardware failure.Conclusion: The sagittal resection procedure is a helpful means of preventing the local recurrence of rib tumors, however the surgery has a high rate of complications and thus it is important to fully assess indications on an individual patient basis.
The importance of building community trust for sustained health interventions during disruptive events such as COVID-19: A Cambodia case study
Authors: Feldman Mitra , Vernaeve Lieven , Tibenderana James , Debackere Mark , Braack Leo , Thu Htin Kyaw , Hamade Prudence , Lo Koung
Published: October 2020

Cambodia has made impressive progress in reducing malaria trends and, in 2018, reported no malaria related deaths for the first time. However, the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic presents a potential challenge to the country’s goal for malaria elimination by 2025. The path towards malaria elimination is dependent on sustained interventions to prevent rapid resurgence, which can quickly set back any gains achieved. Malaria Consortium supported Mobile Malaria Workers (MMWs) engage with target communities to promote acceptance, trust, and resilience. During the COVID-19 pandemic Malaria Consortium’s policy has been to follow national guidelines while continuing to support community-based malaria services via the MMWs / mobile malaria posts (MPs) with as minimal disruption as possible. A COVID-19 risk assessment was carried out by Malaria Consortium, with a mitigation plan quickly developed and implemented, to ensure MMWs were able to continue providing services without putting themselves or their patients at risk.In general, Health Centres and village malaria workers at District level saw an overall decline in malaria testing in March and April; however, Malaria Consortium-supported MMWs did not report any such decline in the utilization of their services. They attribute this to the trust they have among the communities especially regarding Covid-19 mitigation measures that were implemented, and their consequent ability to continue working safely thanks to Malaria Consortium’s rapid response and continued support.By effectively demonstrating care and solidarity with and among the MMWs and communities being served, the rapid and effective Covid-19 mitigation measures and community messaging have ensured a high level of trust, and therefore willingness to continue providing and utilising malaria services as usual, despite the fear of COVID-19. By building trust among rural communities, resilience was strengthened, and effective malaria elimination activities were able to continue uninterrupted, even during an extraneous disruptive force such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
Incremental Value of 3D and Contrast Echocardiography in Evaluation of Endocardial Fibroelastosis and Multiple Cardiovascular Thrombi
Authors: Sun Lijuan , Li Ying , Qiao Wei , Yu Jiahui , Wang Xin , Ren Wei-dong
Published: October 2020

Background: Endocardial fibroelastosis (EFE) is a rare heart disease characterized by the thickening of the endocardium caused by massive proliferation of collagenous and elastic tissue, usually leading to impaired cardiac function. Thrombosis is a complication of EFE that suggests poor prognosis.Case presentation: The present report describes an EFE patient with multiple cardiovascular thrombi. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of three-dimensional (3D) and contrast echocardiography use in EFE with multiple ventricular thrombi. The clinical features and outcomes of this rare condition between 1966 and 2019 are also reviewed.Conclusions: Through the combination of 3D and contrast echocardiography, the thrombus can be displayed more accurately and vividly, including its nature and density and the connection between the base of the thrombus and ventricular wall. EFE prognosis with left ventricular thrombus is generally poor.
The Effects of IL-2 Concentration and Adding Manner on Proliferation and Function of CIKs
Authors: Liu Yali , Li Jicheng , Zhao Liangtao , Zhu Jiarui , Wang Hongxia , Wang Yingying , Zhang Yong , Liu Tao
Published: October 2020

BackgroundCytokine-induced killer cells (CIKs) adoptive cell transfer (ACT) is a common malignant tumor treatment method. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is one of essential cytokines for CIKs culture. In most studies, only the effect of IL-2 concentration on function of CIKs was studied, but the difference between multifarious adding manner of IL-2 was not explored. MethodsThis study established a novel sequential adding manner of IL-2. Different concentration of IL-2 was added in different CIKs induction phase. Then, proliferation ability of CIKs was evaluated using cell proliferation curves, immune phenotype was analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM), IFN-γ secretion ability and cytotoxicity were detected by ELISA Kit and CCK-8 Kit respectively . Multiple comparison tests were conducted between each group to compare function of CIKs in 12 experimental groups. ResultsAs the IL-2 concentration increased, the number of CIKs continued to increase in each group, but its function was not positively related with its number: CD3+ CD56+ subpopulation ratio, INF-γ secretion ability and cytotoxicity presented irregular changes. During quiescent phase and logarithmic growth phase, adding 300 and 1000 U/mL IL-2 respectively could obtain amounts of powerful CIKs (CD3+ CD56+ subpopulation ratio: 40.9%, INF-γ secretion ability: 542pg/mL, cytotoxicity: 40:1, 74.22) . ConclusionsDifferent concentration of IL-2 had a greater influence on biological function of CIKs in different growth phase, it was better to add IL-2 sequentially in quiescent phase and exponential growth phase of CIKs.
Prognostic Factors of Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer: A Study Based on Next-generation Sequencing
Authors: Shao Yanxiang , Hu Xu , Yang Zhen , Lia Thongher , Yang Weixiao , Wu Kan , Ren Shangqing , Xiong Sanchao , Dou Weichao , Feng Shuyang , Wang Yaohui , Liu Yang , Wu Kang , Li Xiang
Published: October 2020

ObjectiveTo investigate the genetic prognostic factors for the recurrence of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Materials and MethodsThe patients underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor and received bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) or epirubicin. Next-generation sequencing was performed and alterations of genes, pathways, and tumor mutation burden were recorded. Associations between these clinicopathological and genetic variants were estimated, and prognostic factor identified.ResultsA total of 58 cases were included in our study, and 46 patients underwent treatment with BCG. FGFR3 was the most frequently altered gene (48%), and more commonly detected in intermediate-risk patients. Univariate Cox analysis demonstrated that 10 genes were significantly correlated with BCG failure, while NEB, FGFR1 and SDHC were independent recurrence predictors. Besides, epigenetic-related gene pathway mutations were negatively correlated with recurrence (hazard ratio: 0.198, P=0.023). DNA damage response and repair gene alterations were positively correlated with tumor burden, while altered TP53 was most frequent among these genes and significant correlated with high tumor burden.ConclusionBCG instillation significantly reduced the rate of recurrence compared with epirubicin in this population. Potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets were found with the help of next-generation sequencing; correlations between DDR genes alterations and high tumor mutation burden were also demonstrated.
Bioinformatics Analysis Combined With Experiments Predicts CENPK as a Potential Prognostic Factor for Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ma Jiayu , Chen Xiaochuan , Lin Mingqiang , Wang Zhiping , Wu Yahua , Li Jiancheng
Published: October 2020

BackgroundLung cancer is the most commonly occurring malignant tumor. Identification of novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for lung cancer is a key research imperative. The role of CENPK in cancer is an emerging area of research. However, the role of CENPK in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) is not well characterized. MethodsIn this study, we identified centromere protein K (CENPK) as a potential new gene for lung cancer based on bioinformatics analysis. In addition, in vitro experiments, including were performed to verify the function of this gene. We investigated the expression of CENPK in LAC by bioinformatics analyses of datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases, differential expression analyses, gene ontology (GO) enrichment, kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were conducted to evaluate its diagnostic and prognostic relevance. In vitro experiments including immunohistochemistry analysis, western blot analysis, CCK8 assay, Transwell assay, flow cytometry, wound healing assay, which were conducted to evaluate the biological behavior and role of CENPK in lung cancer cells.ResultsWe demonstrated overexpression of CENPK in LAC; in addition, increased expression of CENPK was associated with clinical progression. Moreover, CENPK was found to be an independent risk factor in patients with LAC. Furthermore, we observed activation of CENPK related signaling pathways in patients with LAC. ConclusionsIn summary, our findings indicate a potential role of CENPK in promoting tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis and its application as a novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of LAC.
m6A Methylation Regulators Are Predictive Biomarkers for Tumour Metastasis in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wu Xiaobo , Ge Qianwen , Yang Chen , Wu Yishuo , Hu Mengbo , Ma Chenkai , Jiang Haowen , Hu Jimeng
Published: October 2020

BackgroundProstate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Usually, most prostate cancers are localized in initial diagnoses and grow slowly. Patients with localized prostate cancers have a nearly 100% 5-year survival rate; however, the 5-year survival rate of metastatic or progressive prostate cancer is still dismal. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common post-transcriptional mRNA modification and is dynamically regulated by m6A regulators. A few studies have shown that the abnormal expression of m6A regulators is significantly associated with cancer progression and immune cell infiltration, but the roles of these regulators in prostate cancer remain unclear. MethodsHere, we comprehensively examined the patterns of 21 m6A regulators across 494 prostate cancers and systematically correlated m6A regulators with prostate cancer progression and immune cell infiltration. Consensus clustering was utilized for the subtype identification of m6A regulators for prostate cancers. Each subtype signature genes were obtained by the pairwise differentially expressed genes. Featured pathways of m6A subtypes were predicted consequently. The m6A score was constructed to predict the m6A activation. The association of m6A score with patients’ survival, metastasis and immune cell infiltration were also investigated. ResultsWe identified three distinct clusters in prostate cancer based on the expression profiles of 21 m6A regulators by consensus clustering. The differential expression and pathway analyses on the three clusters uncovered the m6A regulators involved in metabolic processes and immune responses in prostate cancer. Moreover, we established an m6A score to perceive the m6A regulator activation for prostate cancer. The m6A score is significantly associated with Gleason scores and metastasis in prostate cancer. The predictive capacity of m6A score on prostate cancer metastasis was also validated in another independent cohort. ConclusionOur study revealed the critical role of m6A regulators in prostate cancer progression and m6A score is promising predictive biomarker for prostate cancer metastasis.
The circRNA DENND4C/miR-145-5p/HOXA9 Pathway Regulates Tumor Growth and Bone Metastasis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhu Menghai , Lian Chong , Chen Gang , Zou Peng
Published: October 2020

BackgroundCircular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the occurrence and development of breast cancer bone metastasis. This study aims to identify whether the circRNA DENND4C/ miR145-5p/HOXA9 axis is involved in the regulation of cell invasion and migration and breast cancer progression.MethodscircRNA DENND4C, miR-145-5p and HOXA9 expression was measured in serum samples from healthy volunteers, breast cancer patients without bone metastasis and breast cancer patients with bone metastasis. Moreover, we analyzed the levels of circRNA DENND4C, miR‑145-5p and HOXA9 according to different conditions of differentiation, tumor volume and lymph node metastasis. The online software starBases and the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay were used to predict the relationship miR-145-5p, circRNA DENND4C and HOXA9 mRNA. MTT assays were performed to assess the effect of circRNA DENND4C on proliferation. To assess the proliferation of breast cancer cells among different groups. Statistical significance was determined byStudent's t‑test which was used for comparisons between two groups and one‑way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc test for comparisons between more than two groups.ResultsThe expression patterns of circRNA DENND4C, miR145-5p and HOXA9 were altered in patients with breast cancer bone metastasis. Notably, the stimulatory effects of circRNA DENND4C overexpression on HOXA9 were eliminated by miR-145-5p upregulation. circRNA DENND4C overexpression promotes proliferation, migration and invasiveness by regulating the miR-145-5p/HOXA9 axis. circRNA DENND4C downregulation suppresses proliferation, cell viability and invasiveness by regulating the miR-145-5p/HOXA9 axis. ConclusionOur study suggest that circRNA DENND4C/miR-145-5p/HOXA9 pathway was involved in tumor growth and bone metastasis in breast cancer. This findings may facilitate the development of potential therapeutic agents to improve the prognosis of patients with breast cancer bone metastasis.
Actor-Critic Learning Based Energy Optimization for UAV Access-and-Backhaul Networks
Authors: Yuan Yaxiong , Lei Lei , Vu Thang X. , Chatzinotas Symeon , Sun Sumei , Ottersten Björn
Published: October 2020

In unmanned aerial vehicle ( UAV )-assisted networks, UAV acts as an aerial base station to serve ground users ( GUs ) through an access network, and meanwhile, the requested data traffic is acquired through the backhaul link. In this paper, we investigate an energy minimization problem with limited power supply for both backhaul and access links. The difficulties for solving such a non-convex and combinatorial problem lie at the high computational complexity/time. In solution development, we consider the approaches from both actor-critic deep reinforcement learning (AC- DRL ) and optimization perspectives. Firstly, two offline non-learning algorithms, i.e., an optimal and a heuristic algorithms, based on piecewise linear approximation and relaxation are developed as benchmarks. Secondly, towards real-time decision making, we improve the conventional AC- DRL and propose two learning schemes: AC-based user group scheduling and backhaul power allocation ( ACGP ), and joint AC-based user group scheduling and optimization-based backhaul power allocation ( ACGOP ). Numerical results show that the computation time of both ACGP and ACGOP are reduced tenfold to hundredfold compared to the offline approaches, where ACGOP is better than ACGP in energy savings. The results also verify the superiority of proposed learning solutions in terms of guaranteeing the feasibility and minimizing the system energy compared to the conventional AC- DRL .
Impact of Exports and Imports on Economic Growth in Rwanda: 1961-2018
Authors: Ruranga Charles , Ruturwa Daniel S. , Rwema Valens
Published: October 2020

The aim of this paper is to investigate the impact of trade on economic growth in Rwanda. This paper uses exports and imports for trade and gross domestic product for economic growth. Research questions were formulated as (1) Are exports, imports and economic growth cointegrated? (2) Is there a long or short run relationship between those Variables? (3) Are there any causal relationships between factors (4) what the direction of the causality is it? Annual time series data from World Development Indicators for the period from 1961 to 2018 have been used. The methods of linear regression for estimation of Vector Auto regressions models have been used. Our findings established that VAR was appropriate model, and GDP, Exports were stationary at first differences while Imports was stationary at second difference but not at levels. Hence the two series were integrated of order one and the third one was integrated of order two. Tests of cointegration indicates that the three variables were not cointegrated, implying there was no long run equilibrium relationship between the three series. The causality test indicated that exports and imports influenced GDP. On the other hand, we found that there was a strong evidence of unidirectional causality from exports to economic growth. However, there was bidirectional causality between GDP and imports. These results provide evidence that exports and imports, thus, were seen as the source of economic growth in Rwanda.
The Impact of Tilt Angle and Flowrate on Performance of Nanofluid Based Photovoltaic/ Thermal (PV/T) Solar Collectors
Authors: Naderi Aliasghar , Gazori Heshmatollah , Bozegi Mahan
Published: October 2020

Background Today, by the arrival of new sustainable energy technology, the provision of energy for the global population has turned into a significant issue for societies. Meanwhile, photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) solar collectors, as one of the most advanced types to produce electricity and heat simultaneously, can be applied with nanofluid as the working fluid. Methods In this research, PVP coated silver nanofluid was prepared in three volume concentrations being 250, 500 and 1000 ppm by two-step method to determine the stability and thermal conductivity, experimentally. Then, the performance of PV/T solar collector is analyzed by TRNSYS software to study electrical and thermal efficiency and also output electrical and thermal energy in different months, flowrates (25, 50, 75, 100, 150 and 200 l/h) and nanofluid’s concentration. Results Based on the results, the optimum flowrate and nanofluid’s concentration are obtained 50 l/h and 1000 ppm PVP coated silver nanofluid. At last, the effect of tilt angle on the output thermal and electrical energy is determined. According to the results, by changing tilt angle in different months, the performance of PV/T solar collector can be ameliorated. Conclusion This paper can be heeded as a novel approach to overcome the lack of solar radiation in winters by improving the performance of PV/T solar collectors.
Comparative Transcriptome and WGCNA Reveal Candidate Genes Involved in Petaloid Stamens in Paeonia Lactiflora
Authors: Fan Yongming , Zheng Yanyi , Silva Jaime A. Teixeira da , Yu Xiaonan
Published: October 2020

Background: The phenomenon of petaloid stamens in Paeonia lactiflora is an important cause of double flower formation. Although research on stamen development in model plants has progressed, the molecular mechanism of P. lactiflora petaloid stamens is still unclear. Results: In this study, a comparative transcriptomic analysis was performed on two cultivars of P. lactiflora (‘Fen Yu Nu’ and ‘Lian Tai’) with different stamen developmental patterns. Using transcriptome sequencing, 89,393 unigenes were identified in P. lactiflora. Trend analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) indicated that 18 candidate genes were likely involved in petaloid stamens, including seven MADS-box genes PlAP3, PlDEFA, PlPI2, PlAG-1, PlSEP3, PlSEP1-1, and PlSEP1-2, and 11 transcription factors (TFs) PlTCP2, PlTCP4, PlTCP9, PlbHLH36, PlICE1, PlLBD38, PlNAC083, PlBLH11, PlPDF2, PlGBF1, and PlIIIA. Based on the selected candidate genes, a hypothetical model of gene expression network regulating petaloid stamens is proposed. Conclusions: Our results provide a collection of candidate genes for the analysis of P. lactiflora petaloid stamens, allowing for in-depth studies of the development pattern of P. lactiflora flower organs, and providing a theoretical basis for related research on petaloid stamens of other herbaceous flowers.
Estimation of Relative Source Locations From Seismic Amplitude: Application to Earthquakes and Tremors at Meakandake Volcano, Eastern Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Ogiso Masashi , Yomogida Kiyoshi
Published: October 2020

Although seismic amplitudes can be used to estimate event locations for volcanic tremors and other seismic events with unclear phase arrival times, the precision of such estimates is strongly affected by site amplification factors. Therefore, reduction of the influence of site amplification will allow more precise estimation of event locations by this method. Here, we propose a new method to estimate relative event locations using seismic amplitudes. We use the amplitude ratio between two seismic events at a given station to cancel out the effect of the site amplification factor at that station. By assuming that the difference between the hypocentral distances of these events is much smaller than their hypocentral distances themselves, we derive a system of linear equations for the differences in relative event locations. This formulation is similar to that of a master event location method that uses differences in phase arrival times. We applied our new method to earthquakes and tremors at Meakandake volcano, eastern Hokkaido, Japan. Comparison of the hypocentral distributions of volcano-tectonic earthquakes obtained thereby with those obtained from phase arrival times confirmed the validity of our new method. Moreover, our method clearly identified source migration among three source regions in the tremor on 16 November 2008, consistent with previous interpretations of other geophysical observations in our study area. Our method will thus be useful for detailed analyses of seismic events whose onset times are ambiguous.
SnpRecode: A Versatile and Fast Genotype Recoding and Correlation Function
Authors: Marete Andrew , Bissonnette Nathalie
Published: October 2020

SnpRecode is a tool meant to be implemented with the Fimpute imputation software. SnpRecode allows for fast and seamless conversion of genotypes to and from a format acceptable by Fimpute software. It also implements a fast genotype correlation function to estimate and plot the imputation accuracy. SnpRecode is implemented in Python and its source code and Linux executable is freely available for download at https://github.com/amarete/fimpute-utils
Dietary Moutan Cortex Radicis Alters Serum Antioxidant Capacity, Intestinal Immunity and Colonic Microbiota in Weaned Piglets
Authors: Bai Miaomiao , Liu Hongnan , Wang Shanshan , Shu Qingyan , Xu Kang , Zhou Jian , Xiong Xia , Huang Ruilin , Deng Jinping , Yin Yulong , Liu zheng'an
Published: October 2020

Background: Moutan cortex radicis (MCR), as a common traditional Chinese medicine, has been widely used as antipyretic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent in China. However, few studies have evaluated the positive effects of MCR, as a new feed additives, on alleviating weaning stress and improving intestinal health and microbiom in pigs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of dietary MCR supplementation on serum antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, anti-inflammatory mechanism, and microbiota in weaned piglets.Results: Supplemental 2000 mg/kg and 4000 mg/kg MCR increased (P < 0.05) the final body weight, ADG and ADFI of weaned piglets, and 2000 mg/kg MCR diet significantly decreased (P < 0.05) the F/G ratio and increased (P < 0.05) serum catalase activity compared with CON group. Also, the villus height and crypt depth in the ileum and the concentrations of total SCFA, acetic acid, butyric acid and valeric acid in the colonic contents were higher (P < 0.05) in the 2000 mg/kg and 4000 mg/kg MCR diets than CON group. Dietary MCR supplementation at 4000 mg/kg MCR significantly increased (P < 0.05) total antioxidative capability and the crypt depth in the jejunum but decreased (P < 0.05) the mRNA expression levels of Interferon γ, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, inhibiting kappa B kinase β (IKKβ), inhibiting nuclear factor kappa-B (IκBα) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) in the jejunum and ileum. Supplemental 8000 mg/kg MCR had the higher total antioxidative capability and catalase activity in the serum but decreased (P < 0.05) the villus height and crypt depth in the jejunum compared with the CON group. MCR addition reduced (P < 0.05) serum malondialdehyde content, and tended to increase the mRNA expression of zonula occludens-1 in the ileum (P = 0.066) compared to the CON group. Microbiota sequencing identified the microbial richness indices (Chao1, ACE, and observed species), the relative abundances of Firmicutes and Lactobacillus were increased (P < 0.05), and the relative abundances of Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, unidentified_Lachnospiraceae and Enterococcus were reduced (P < 0.05) by MCR supplemented. Microbial metabolic phenotypes analysis also showed that the richness of aerobic bacteria and facultative anaerobic bacteria, oxidative stress tolerance, and biofilm forming were significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the richness of anaerobic bacteria and pathogenic potential of gut microbiota were reduced (P < 0.05) by MCR treatment. Conclusions: In antibiotic-free diets, MCR supplementation improved growth performance and serum antioxidant capacity, alleviated intestinal inflammatory by inhibiting IKKβ/IκBα/NF-κB signaling pathway and affecting intestinal microbiota in weaned piglets.
The Landscape of Chromatin Accessibility in Skeletal Muscle During Embryonic Development in Pigs
Authors: Yue Jingwei , Hou Xinhua , Liu Xin , Wang Ligang , Gao Hongmei , Zhao Fuping , Shi Lijun , Shi Liangyu , Yan Hua , Deng Tianyu , Gong Jianfei , Wang Lixian , ZHANG Longchao
Published: October 2020

Background: The development of skeletal muscle during the embryonic stage in pigs is precisely regulated by transcriptional regulation, which depends on chromatin accessibility. However, how chromatin accessibility plays a regulatory role during embryonic skeletal muscle development in pigs has not been reported. To gain insight into the landscape of chromatin accessibility and the associated genome-wide transcriptome during embryonic muscle development, we performed ATAC-seq and RNA-seq on skeletal muscle of pig embryos at 45, 70 and 100 days post coitus (dpc). Results: In total, 21638, 35447 and 60181 unique regions (or peaks) were found across 45 dpc (LW45), 70 dpc (LW70) and 100 dpc (LW100) embryos, respectively. More than 91% of peaks were annotated within -1 kb to 100 bp of transcription start sites (TSSs). First, widespread increases in specific accessible chromatin regions (ACRs) from 45 to 100 dpc embryos suggested that the regulatory mechanisms became increasingly complicated during embryonic development. Second, the findings of integrated ATAC-seq and RNA-seq analyses showed that not only the numbers but also the peak intensities of ACRs could control the expression of associated genes. Finally, motif screening of stage-specific ACRs revealed some transcription factors that regulated muscle development-related genes, such as MyoD, Mef2c, Mef2d and Pax7. Several potential transcriptional repressors, including E2F6, GRHL2, OTX2 and CTCF, were identified among those genes that exhibited different change trends between the ATAC-seq and RNA-seq data. Conclusions: This work indicates that chromatin accessibility plays an important regulatory role in the embryonic muscle development of pigs and regulates the temporal and spatial expression patterns of key genes in muscle development by influencing the binding of transcription factors. Our results contribute to a better understanding of the regulatory dynamics of genes involved in pig embryonic skeletal muscle development.
Investigation on the Tribological Behaviors of as-sprayed Al2O3 Coatings With the Effects of MoS2 Lubricant and External Loads
Authors: Deng Wen , TANG Lin , QI Hui , ZHANG Changfu
Published: October 2020

The Al2O3-MoS2 ceramic-based lubricating coating was prepared via introducing MoS2 dry film lubricant into the pores and cracks of thermal-sprayed Al2O3 coating by facial paint spraying method. The microstructure, mechanical properties and tribological behaviors of the as-received Al2O3-MoS2 coating were thoroughly evaluated. The results illustrated that MoS2 was mainly concentrated on the shallow surface of the Al2O3 coating, and thus more uniform, more compact and smoother Al2O3-MoS2 coating was obtained. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties of the Al2O3 coating did not change significantly after the introduction of MoS2. The tribological experiments illustrated that compared with the Al2O3 coating, the friction coefficient and specific wear rate of the Al2O3-MoS2 coating under different loads were greatly reduced due to the generation of the lubricating layer. Especially under the load of 5 N, the friction coefficient was as low as 0.36, and the wear rate (1.49×10-5 mm3×(N×m)-1) was almost 17 times lower than that of Al2O3 coating (2.53×10-4 mm3×(N×m)-1). This research established a new and simple way to prepare ceramic-based self-lubricating coatings by using temperature-sensitive solid lubricants.
Bioprospecting of wild type ethanologenic yeast for ethanol fuel production from wastewater-grown microalgae.
Authors: Romero-Frasca Enrique , Velasquez-Orta Sharon , Escobar-Sánchez Viviana , Tinoco-Valencia Raunel , Ledesma María Teresa Orta
Published: October 2020

Background: Wild type yeasts have been successfully used to obtain food products, yet their full potential as fermenting microorganisms for large-scale ethanol fuel production has to be determined. In this study, wild type ethanologenic yeasts isolated from a secondary effluent were assessed for their capability to ferment saccharified microalgae sugars. Results: Yeast species in wastewater were identified sequencing the Internal Transcribed Spacers 1 and 2 regions of the ribosomal cluster. Concurrently, microalgae biomass sugars were saccharified via acid hydrolysis, producing 5.0 ± 0.3 g L-1 of fermentable sugars. Glucose consumption and ethanol production of yeasts in hydrolyzed-microalgae liquor were tested at different initial sugar concentrations and fermentation time. The predominant ethanologenic yeast species was identified as Candida sp., and glucose consumption for this strain and S. cerevisiae achieved 75% and 87% of the initial concentration at optimal conditions, respectively. Relatively similar ethanol yields were determined for both species, achieving 0.45 ± 0.05 (S. cerevisiae) and 0.46 ± 0.05 g ethanol per g glucose (Candida sp.). Conclusion: Overall, the results provide a first insight of the fermentation capacities of specific wild type Candida species, and their potential role in ethanol industries seeking to improve their cost-efficiency.
Biophysical and structural studies reveal marginal stability of Acyl ACP Reductase: a crucial hydrocarbon biosynthetic enzyme
Authors: Sharma Ashima , Shakeel Tabinda , Gupta Mayank , Rajacharya Girish , Yazdani Syed Shams
Published: October 2020

Background: Acyl-ACP reductase (AAR) is one of the two key cyanobacterial enzymes along with aldehyde deformylating oxygenase (ADO) involved in synthesis of long-chain alkanes, a drop-in biofuel. The enzyme is prone to aggregation when expressed in E. coli, leading to varying alkane levels. Intriguingly, the structural characterization remains largely elusive as AAR alone failed to form stable crystals, possibly due to a number of intrinsically flexible random regions. The present work attempts to fill a gap in the literature by investigating the crucial structural aspects of AAR protein associated with its stability and folding. Results: The AAR protein was recombinant expressed in E. coli and purified by metal affinity and gel filtration chromatography. Characterization by dynamic light scattering experiment revealed that recombinantly expressed AAR in E. coli existed in multiple-sized protein particles in the range of 36.4 to 51.6 nm. Intact mass spectrometry revealed that recombinant AAR was heterogenous due to diverse lipidation and de-lipidation resulted in a single mass peak of 40296.87 Da as predicted. Interestingly, while thermal- and urea-based denaturation of AAR showed 2-state unfolding transition in circular dichroism and intrinsic fluorescent spectroscopy, the unfolding process of AAR was a 3-state pathway in GdnHCl solution. Lower concentration of GdnHCl appeared to be stabilizing the protein, suggesting that the protein milieu plays a significant role in dictating it’s folding. Standard free energy (∆GH2ONU) of ~4.5 kcal/mol for steady-state unfolding of AAR indicated borderline stability of the protein. Molecular dynamics simulation conducted on AAR structure in presence of KCl, an ionic solvent with similar properties as GdnHCl at lower concentrations, suggested that KCl mediates structural stabilization especially at the concentration of 375 mM, and thus was responsible for enhancing its activity. KCl presence also resulted in regional alteration towards the binding site of its neighbouring pathway enzyme, ADO, thus paving the way for coordinated catalysis.Conclusion: Based on these evidences, we propose that the marginal stability of AAR are plausible contributing reasons for aggregation propensity and hence low catalytic activity of the enzyme when expressed in E. coli for biofuel production. Our results show path for building superior biocatalyst for higher biofuel production.
Validation of the St George’s respiratory questionnaire Vietnamese Version in new pulmonary tuberculosis patients
Authors: Nguyen Han , Xuan Khan Mai , Chi Tuan Nguyen , Thanh Tung Nguyen , Do Quyet
Published: October 2020

Background: According to the Global Tuberculosis Report 2019, Vietnam is one of the 20 countries with the highest TB prevalence in the world. Pulmonary tuberculosis has a significant effect on lung functions, causing many obstacles in daily activities and affects the quality of patient’s lives.Methods: The case-series study conducted on 43 newly-diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis patients at the Department of Tuberculosis - Military Hospital 103 within 4 months. The aims of the current study were to evaluate the validity of the Vietnamese version of the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire and to investigate the relationship between SGRQ scores and the clinical and subclinical symptoms in new pulmonary tuberculosis patients.Results: The results indicate that Vietnamese version of the SGRQ has high reliability with Cronbach's alpha of Total score was 0.9451, Cronbach's alpha of all domains was above 0.6, of which the Symptom domain was 0.6635, the Impact domain was 0.9069, the Activity domain was 0.9121. The study also showed that SGRQ score was proportional to the aggregate size of all cavities on chest X-ray (r = 0.3772) and inversely proportional to BMI (r = -0.2843), MGIT days to positivity (r = -0.1635).Conclusions: The Vietnamese version of the SGRQ is a highly reliable and valuable questionnaire in assessing symptoms and life effects in new PTB patients. We recommend it as symptom measurement and quality of life evaluation in patients with new PTB in future studies.Trial registration: The study protocol was approved by the Ethical Review Board Committee of Vietnam Military Medical University (IRB No. 250/2020/QĐ-HVQY) and by the local ethics committee of Military hospital 103. All participants had provided written informed consents for this study.
Comparison Of The 25oh-vitamin D Levels Between Old Patients Hospitalized For Sars-cov-2 Pneumonia And Patients With Other Acute Illnesses: A Retrospective Case-control Study.
Authors: Tomisti Luca , Pulizzi Nicolò , Pafundi Pia Clara , Macaro Domenico , Villari Liliana , Latorre Manuela , Pogliaghi Manuela , Lenzi Mirco , Lenzi Veronica , Parri Giulia , Conti Valentina , Pacetti Paola , Bianchini Guido , Pampana Alessandro
Published: October 2020

PURPOSE. To assess and compare the serum 25OH-vitamin D levels in three cohorts of patients hospitalized due to acute illness, either related or not to a SARS-COV-2 infection. To investigate, in the patients group with SARS-COV-2 pneumonia, the possible relationship between the serum vit- amin D levels and both disease severity and mortality risk.METHODS. This is a retrospective case-control study. Serum 25OH-vitamin D levels were compared between patients with SARS-COV-2 pneumonia (COVID-19 group, 52 patients), and two control groups, including patients with pneumonia not related to SARS-CoV-2 (NO COVID1 group, 52 patients) and patients with a non-respiratory acute disease (NO COVID2 group, 52 pa- tients).RESULTS. No differences were found in the serum 25 OH-Vitamin D levels among the three groups. In the COVID-19 group, serum 25 OH-Vitamin D levels did not show significant associa- tion with mortality risk (p=0.12), Intensive Care Unit admission risk (p=0.36), inpatients duration (p=0.40) and remission time (p=0.33). Similar results were found for parameters estimating the dis- ease severity, such as basal PO2/FiO2 (p=0.77), worse PO2/FiO2 (p=0.41), basal D-dimer (p=0.46) and basal LDH (p=0.52).CONCLUSIONS. Our data do not show lower 25OH-vitamin D levels in the patients with SARS- COV-2 pneumonia compared to patients hospitalized for other acute illnesses. In the COVID-19 group the 25OH-vitamin D levels did not show significant correlation with a worse outcome.
Flattening the COVID-19 Curve: The “Greek” case in the Global Pandemic
Authors: Demertzis Konstantinos , Magafas Lykourgos , Tsiotas Dimitrios
Published: October 2020

The global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, in conjunction with the economic consequences and the collapse of health systems, has raised serious concerns in Europe, which is the most affected continent by the pandemic since it recorded 2,388,694 cases and 190,091 deaths (39.6% of the worldwide total), of which 71.7% (136,238) are in the United Kingdom (43,414), Italy (34,708), France (29,778), and Spain (28,338). Unlike other countries, Greece, with about 310 confirmed cases and 18 deaths per million, is one bright exception in the study and analysis of this phenomenon. Focusing on the peculiarities of the disease spreading in Greece, both in epidemiological and in implementation terms, this paper applies an exploratory analysis of COVID-19 temporal spread in Greece and proposes a methodological approach for the modelling and prediction of the disease based on the Regression Splines algorithm and the change rate of the total infections. Also, it proposes a hybrid spline regression and complex network model of social distance measures evaluating and interpreting the spread of the disease. The overall approach contributes to decision making and support of the public health system and to the fight against the pandemic.
Nonstructural protein 7 and 8 complexes of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Zhang Changhui , Li Li , He Jun , Chen Cheng , Su Dan
Published: October 2020

The pandemic outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) across the world has led to millions of infection cases and caused a global public health crisis. Current research suggests that SARS-CoV-2 is a highly contagious coronavirus that spreads rapidly through communities. To understand the mechanisms of viral replication, it is imperative to observe coronavirus viral replicase, a huge protein complex comprising up to 16 viral nonstructural and associated host proteins, which is the most promising antiviral target for inhibiting viral genome replication and transcription. Recently, several components of the viral replicase complex in SARS-CoV-2 have been solved to provide a basis for the design of new antiviral therapeutics. Here, we report the crystal structure of the SARS-CoV2 nsp7-8 tetramer, which comprises two copies of each protein representing nsp7’s full-length and the C-terminus of nsp8 owing to N-terminus proteolysis during the process of crystallization. We also identified a long helical extension and highly flexible N-terminal domain of nsp8, which is preferred for interacting with single-stranded nucleic acids.
Predicting the students' learning behaviour for a technical course during Covid-19
Authors: Dutt Ishwar , Taneja Ashu , Sharma Ajay
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the learning behaviour of students towards a technical course using online mode and offline mode. Due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic, the educational fraternity has successfully reached out to the students using the various virtual tools available. Although, the offline mode of teaching-learning i.e. the actual classroom interaction is quite important as far as a technical course is concerned, but during these tough times the online platforms like Zoom, Webex meetings, Google meet have made the teaching-learning feasible remotely at any time from any place. This paper compares the learning behaviour of students in the two modes, online mode, and offline mode. A total of 213 students studying a technical course participated in the survey and their responses based on a questionnaire were recorded. The questionnaire considered all aspects related to the delivery of contents, the evaluation method, the preferred way of clarifying students’ doubts, course difficulty level and duration of the course. The analysis suggests that 72.3% of students are in favour of learning this course using offline mode, while 27.7 % of students are comfortable with online mode. Furthermore, the present study reveals that 95.7%, 95.3%, and 75.1 % of students are congenial with the offline mode in terms of teacher competency, content delivery, and interaction possibility respectively, whereas 85%, 76.9% and 48.4% of students are congenial with the online mode in terms of same parameters. The higher magnitude of average mean value for offline mode (3.99) anticipates its dominance over online mode (3.18). More than 50% students favoured online mode along with multiple choice question papers for the evaluation process irrespective of their preference to offline mode for teaching-learning. Based on the present analysis, some recommendations are proposed as the future strategies to improve the performance of teaching-learning activities during the times of crisis.