bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roots of Cooperation: Can Root Graft Networks Benefit Trees Under Stress?
Authors: Vovides Alejandra , Wimmler Marie-Christin , Schrewe Falk , Balke Thorsten , Zwanzig Martin , Piou Cyril , Delay Etienne , López-Portillo Jorge , Berger Uta
Published: December 2020

The occurrence of natural root grafts, the functional union of roots of the same or different trees1–3, is common and shared across tree species2. However, their significance for forest ecology remains little understood. While early research suggested negative effects of root grafting (i.e. increases the risk of pathogen transmission)4,5, recent evidence supports the hypothesis that it is an adaptive strategy that reduces stress6–8 by facilitating resource exchange9,10. Here by analysing mangrove root graft networks, we show evidence of cooperation-associated benefits of root grafting. Grafted trees were found to dominate the upper canopy of the forest, and as the probability of grafting and the frequency of grafted groups increased with a higher environmental stress, the mean group size (number of trees within groups) decreased. While root networks could form randomly (i.e. trees do not actively ‘choose’ neighbours to graft to)11,12, the increased frequency and reduced group sizes in higher-stress environments point to the existence of underlying mechanisms that regulate ‘optimal size’ group selection related to resource use within cooperating groups8,13,14. This work calls for further studies to better understand tree interactions (i.e. network hydraulic redistribution)15 and their consequences for individual tree and forest stand resilience and water-use efficiency.
Investigation of the Effect of Tufts Contribution on the In-Plane Mechanical Properties of Flax Fibre Reinforced Green Biocomposite
Authors: Rashid Madiha , Hanus Jean-Luc , Chetehouna Khaled , Khellil Kamel , Aboura Zoheir , Gascoin Nicolas
Published: December 2020

Traditional laminated composites have fibres oriented only in the in-plane of the laminate due to their manufacturing process, and are therefore very susceptible to transverse cracking and delamination from out-of-plane actions. Delamination can considerably reduce the load bearing capacity of a structure hence several reinforcement solutions, based on the principle to add out-of-plane reinforcement to the 2D fabric, have been explored to enhance the delamination resistance. However, the usual textile technologies for Z-reinforcement such as weaving, knitting, stitching, z-pinning, and tufting generates perturbations that may alter the in-plane mechanical properties. Although tufting is a single needle and single thread based one side stitching (OSS) technique which can incorporate almost tension free through the thickness reinforcement in a material, various types of microstructural defects may be created during the manufacturing process and lead to a degradation of the in-plane properties of the composite. Moreover, due to awareness in environmental concerns, the development and use of eco-friendly biocomposites to replace synthetic ones has been increasing. This research work investigates the effect on in plane mechanical properties of adding through the thickness reinforcement (TTR) by tufting in a flax based composite laminate to improve the transversal strength. The glass fibre tufted laminates of 550 g/m2 flax fibre were moulded using a 38% biobased thermoset resin by vacuum bag resin transfer moulding (VBRTM). The tufted and un-tufted in-plane mechanical properties of green biocomposite were determined in tension, compression and shear in accordance with ASTM 3039, ASTM D7137 and EN ISO 14130, using universal INSTRON 1186 and MTS 20M testing machines. The quantification of the in-plane mechanical properties results established a reduction of the in plane tensile mechanical properties, due to tufting, whereas the reduction effects are marginal in compression. As expected, the glass tufts strength the connection between core and skin of the composite so that the interlaminar shear strength, deduced from flexural tests with small span-to-thickness ratio, is increased, Thanks to Digital Image Correlation (DIC) performed during shear tests an increase in interlaminar shear modulus is highlighted.
Alternative Splicing Signature in human Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Li Daowei , Tan Yue
Published: December 2020

Although hundreds of risk loci for Crohn’s disease (CD) have been identified, the underlying pathogenesis of CD remains unclear. Recently, evidence has shown that aberrant gene expression in CD patients’ colon tissues was associated with progression of CD. We reasoned that post-transcriptional regulation, especially alternative splicing (AS), may also play important roles in the pathogenesis of CD. Herein we re-analyzed a public mRNA-seq data from NCBI GEO dataset (GSE66207), and identified approximately 3,000 unique AS events in CD patients compared to the healthy controls. “Lysine degradation”, “Sphingolipid metabolism” are the top two AS events enriched terms in CD patients. In a validation study, we also sequenced 8 subjects and demonstrated that key genes which were previously linked to CDs, such as IRF1, STAT3, also had significant AS events in CDs. In conclusion, our study provided a landscape of AS events in CD, especially as the first study focused on a Chinese cohort. Our data suggested that dysregulation of AS may be a new mechanism that contribute to the pathogenesis of CD.
2D LDH-MoS2 Clay Nanosheets: Synthesis, Catalase-mimic Capacity, and Imaging-guided Tumor Photo-therapy
Authors: Zhao Jiayan , Wu Hang , Zhao Jiulong , Yin Yichen , Zhang Zhilun , Wang Shige , Lin Kun
Published: December 2020

Owing to the hypoxia status of the tumor, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production during photodynamic therapy (PDT) of the tumor is less efficient. Herein, a facile method which involves the synthesis of Mg-Mn-Al layered double hydroxides (LDH) clay with MoS2 doping in the surface and anionic layer space of LDH was presented, to integrate the photo-thermal effect of MoS2 and imaging and catalytic functions of Mg-Mn-Al LDH. The designed LDH-MoS2 (LMM) clay composite was further surface-coated with bovine serum albumin (BSA) to maintain the colloidal stability of LMM in physiological environment. A photosensitizer, chlorin e6 (Ce6), was absorbed at the surface and anionic layer space of LMM@BSA. In the LMM formulation, the magnetic resonance imaging of Mg-Mn-Al LDH was enhanced thanks to the reduced and acid microenvironment of the tumor. Notably, the ROS production and PDT efficiency of Ce6 were significantly improved, because LMM@BSA could catalyze the decomposing of the overexpressed H2O2 in tumors to produce oxygen. The biocompatible LMM@BSA that played the synergism with tumor microenvironment is a promising candidate for the effective treatment of cancer.
Enhancement and Extended Release of the Anti-hypertensive Drug Carvedilol using Optimized Ethosomal Gel via Transdermal Route
Authors: Amarachinta Padmanabha Rao , Samed Noufel , Ch. Ananda Kumar , Alle Madhusudhan , Kim Jin-Chul
Published: December 2020

BackgroundCarvedilol, a popular anti-hypertensive drug, when orally administered has very poor bioavailability on the account of undergoing hepatic metabolism and therefore it becomes primal to explore an alternative drug delivery route for carvedilol. For a drug to be delivered by undergoing the least number of stages of metabolism and achieve high target specificity, transdermal delivery is the most preferred route. Hence, a study was conducted to test the potential of ethosomes as a candidate for transdermal delivery of carvedilol. A statistical study by using Central Composite Design (CCD) was also conducted for optimizing the quantity of the primary constituents present in the ethosomes. The optimized ethosomal formulation was then incorporated into a hydrogel to prepare the ethosomal gel.ResultsThe optimized formulated ethosomal suspension and the ethosomal gel were undergone physicochemical, compatibility and in-vitro drug release studies along with characterization studies. The incorporation of the ethosomes into the hydrogel proved to be effective for skin application thereby ensuring better transdermal delivery. The optimized ethosomal gel has showed credible physical appearance, spreadability, viscosity and in-vitro drug release. The pharmacodynamic studies conducted on Wister rats revealed that the anti-hypertensive action was gradual and sustained lasting up to a period of 24 hours. The stability studies conducted also showed that prepared formulations maintained its consistency within the range for the measured parameters of physical appearance, rheological properties and entrapment efficiency for a period of 3 months.Conclusions The incorporation of the drug loaded into hydrogel and its effect on regulating systolic blood pressure in a sustained way lasting 24 hours proved to be better than the present available marketed formulation which has a rapid action with the anti-hypertensive effect lasting only for 10 hours. The chosen route for delivering the drug transdermally hence proved to be effective with better enhancement and permeation capability and shows the high potential of ethosomes to be considered for novel delivery of other anti-hypertensive drugs.
Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibitors and Susceptibility to COVID-19 in Patients With Hypertension: A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study in Primary Care
Authors: Haroon Shamil , Subramanian Anuradhaa , Cooper Jennifer , Anand Astha , Gokhale Krishna , Byne Nathan , Dhalla Samir , Acosta-Mena Dionisio , Taverner Thomas , Okoth Kelvin , Wang Jingya , Chandan Joht Singh , Sainsbury Christopher , Zemedikun Dawit Tefra , Thomas G Neil , Parekh Dhruv , Marshall Tom , Sapey Elizabeth , Adderley Nicola J , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah
Published: December 2020

IntroductionRenin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors have been postulated to influence susceptibility to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). This study investigated whether there is an association between their prescription and the incidence of COVID-19 and all-cause mortality.MethodsWe conducted a propensity-score matched cohort study comparing the incidence of COVID-19 among patients with hypertension prescribed ACE inhibitors or ARBs to those treated with calcium channel blockers (CCBs) in a large UK-based primary care database (The Health Improvement Network). We estimated crude incidence rates for confirmed/suspected COVID-19 in each drug exposure group. We used Cox proportional hazards models to produce adjusted hazard ratios for COVID-19. We assessed all-cause mortality as a secondary outcome. ResultsThe incidence rate of COVID-19 among users of ACE inhibitors and CCBs was 9.3 per 1000 person-years (83 of 18,895 users [0.44%]) and 9.5 per 1000 person-years (85 of 18,895 [0.45%]), respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio was 0.92 (95% CI 0.68 to 1.26). The incidence rate among users of ARBs was 15.8 per 1000 person-years (79 out of 10,623 users [0.74%]). The adjusted hazard ratio was 1.38 (95% CI 0.98 to 1.95). There were no significant associations between use of RAS inhibitors and all-cause mortality. ConclusionUse of ACE inhibitors was not associated with the risk of COVID-19 whereas use of ARBs was associated with a statistically non-significant increase compared to the use of CCBs. However, no significant associations were observed between prescription of either ACE inhibitors or ARBs and all-cause mortality.
A Cysteine-Rich Receptor-Like Protein Kinase CaCKR5 Contributes to Immune Defense Against Ralstonia Solanacearum in Pepper
Authors: Mou Shaoliang , Gao Feng , Zhang Tingting , He Weihong , Meng Qianqian , Guan Deyi , He Shuilin
Published: December 2020

Background: Cysteine-rich receptor-like kinases (CRKs) represent a large subfamily of receptor-like kinases and have important roles in numerous different physiological processes in plants. Results: CaCRK5 transcripts were observed to accumulate after the inoculation of R. solanacearum and treatment with salicylic acid. The fusion between CaCRK5 and the green fluorescence protein was targeted to the plasma membrane. Suppression of CaCRK5 via virus-induced gene silencing made pepper plants significantly susceptible to R. solanacearum infection, which was accompanied by decreased expression of defense related genes CaPR1, CaSAR8.2, CaDEF1 and CaACO1. Overexpression of CaCRK5 in tobacco conferred increased resistance against R. solanacearum. Furthermore, electrophoretic mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation with quantitative real-time PCR analysis verified that a homeodomain zipper I protein CaHDZ27 can bind to the CaCRK5 promoter, and directly active its expression. Yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation analyses suggested that CaCRK5 could heterodimerize with the homologous member CaCRK6 in the plasma membrane. Conclusions: Our data indicated that CaCRK5 played a positive role in pepper resistance against R. solanacearum infection.
G-Quadruplex Binding Properties of A Potent PARP-1 Inhibitor Derived From 7-Azaindole-1-Carboxamide
Authors: Dallavalle Sabrina , Musso Loana , Artali Roberto , Aviñó Anna , Scaglioni Leonardo , Eritja Ramon , Gargallo Raimundo , Mazzini Stefania
Published: December 2020

Poly ADP-ribose polymerases (PARP) are key proteins involved in DNA repair, maintenance as well as regulation of programmed cell death. For this reason they are important therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Recent studies have revealed a close interplay between PARP1 recruitment and G-quadruplex stabilization, showing that PARP enzymes are activated upon treatment with a G4 ligand. In this work the DNA binding properties of a PARP-1 inhibitor derived from 7-azaindole-1-carboxamide, (2-[6-(4-pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl-phenyl)-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-1-yl]-acetamide, compound 1) with model duplex and quadruplex DNA oligomers were studied by NMR, CD, fluorescence and molecular modelling. We provide evidence that compound 1 is a strong G-quadruplex binder. In addition we provide molecular details of the interaction of compound 1 with two model G-quadruplex structures: the single repeat of human telomeres, d(TTAGGGT)4, and the c-MYC promoter Pu22 sequence. The formation of defined and strong complexes with G-quadruplex models suggests a dual G4 stabilization/PARP inhibition mechanism of action for compound 1 and provides the molecular bases of its therapeutic potential.
Bilayer ventilated labyrinthine metasurfaces with high sound absorption and tunable bandwidth
Authors: Du Jiayuan , Luo Yuezhou , Zhao Xinyu , Sun Xiaodong , Song Yanan , Hu Xinhua
Published: December 2020

The recent advent of acoustic metamaterials offers unprecedented opportunities for sound controlling in various occasions, whereas it remains a challenge to attain broadband high sound absorption and free air flow simultaneously. Here, we demonstrated, both theoretically and experimentally, that this problem can be overcome by using a bilayer ventilated labyrinthine metasurface. By altering the spacing between two constituent single-layer metasurfaces and adopting asymmetric losses in them, near-perfect (98.6%) absorption is achieved at resonant frequency for sound waves incident from the front. The relative bandwidth of absorption peak can be tuned in a wide range (from 12% to 80%) by adjusting the open area ratio of the structure. For sound waves from the back, the bilayer metasurface still serves as a sound barrier with low transmission. Our results present a strategy to realize high sound absorption and free air flow simultaneously, and could find applications in building acoustics and noise remediation.
Aphid Endosymbiont Facilitates Virus Transmission by Modulating the Volatile Profile of Host Plants
Authors: Shi xiao-bin , Yan Shuo , Zhang Chi , Zheng Li-Min , Zhang Zhan-hong , Sun Shu-E , Gao Yang , Tan Xin-qiu , Zhang De-yong , Zhou Xuguo
Published: December 2020

Background: Most plant viruses rely on vectors for their transmission and spread. One of the outstanding biological questions concerning the vector-pathogen-symbiont multi-trophic interactions is the potential involvement of vector symbionts in the virus transmission process. Here, we used a multi-factorial system containing a non-persistent plant virus, cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), its primary vector, green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, and the obligate endosymbiont, Buchnera aphidicola to explore this uncharted territory. Results: Based on our preliminary research, we hypothesized that aphid endosymbiont B. aphidicola can facilitate CMV transmission by modulating plant volatile profiles. Gene expression analyses demonstrated that CMV infection reduced B. aphidicola abundance in M. persicae, in which lower abundance of B. aphidicola was associated with a preference shift in aphids from infected to healthy plants. Volatile profile analyses confirmed that feeding by aphids with lower B. aphidicola titers reduced the production of attractants, while increased the emission of deterrents. As a result, M. persicae changed their feeding preference from infected to healthy plants. Conclusions: We conclude that CMV infection reduces the B. aphidicola abundance in M. persicae. When viruliferous aphids feed on host plants, dynamic changes in obligate symbionts lead to a shift in plant volatiles from attraction to avoidance, thereby switching insect vector’s feeding preference from infected to healthy plants.
Genome-Wide Association Analysis of Late Blight Resistance Traits in Potato Germplasm Resources
Authors: Wang Fang , Zou Meiling , Zhao Long , Li Huaqing , Xia Zhiqiang , Wang Jian
Published: December 2020

Background: Potatoes are dicotyledonous plants of the genus Solanum, family Solanaceae, and contain large amounts of starch, proteins, and trace elements required by the human. Potato late blight is the main disease hindering potato production. In this study, Phytophthora infestans were used to quantify late blight resistance in 284 germplasm resources, and resistance genes were mined through genome-wide association analysis.Results: The results showed that among the 284 potato germplasm resources, 37 showed immunity, 15 were highly resistant to late blight, 30 were moderately resistant to late blight, 107 were moderately susceptible to late blight, and 95 were highly susceptible to late blight. Through screening and filtering, 22,489 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and indels were obtained. Through population structure analysis and principal-component analysis, 284 germplasm resources were divided into eight subgroups, which was consistent with the results of the phylogenetic tree analysis. The genetic diversity index of the 284 potato germplasm resources was 0.2161, and the differentiation index of each subgroup was 0.0251-0.1489. A mixed linear model was built to perform an association analysis on the diameter of the lesions identified from isolated leaves of potato affected by late blight. The genes within 100 kb of both sides of the obtained significant SNP loci were searched and functionally annotated, and 18 candidate genes were obtained. Twenty-two candidate genes were obtained from the association analysis of disease resistance grade.Conclusions: 284 potato germplasm resources were used to identify for Phytophthora infestans resistance. The potato germplasm resources were divided into 8 subgroups by population structure analysis, and the main differentiation among subgroups was moderate. Candidate genes were mined by genome-wide association analysis.The results of this study provides the foundation for the genetic improvement of potato varieties resistant to late blight.
Transcriptome Analysis of Resistant and Susceptible Mulberry Responses to Meloidogyne Enterolobii Infection
Authors: hudie Shao , Fu Yu , Zhang Pan , You Chunping , Li Chuanren
Published: December 2020

Background: Mulberry is an important crop for sericulture and root-knot nematode infection is a major factor limiting its production. Understanding the interaction mechanism of mulberry and nematode is important for the control of infection. Results: Through sequencing and de novo transcriptome assembly from root samples of resistant and susceptible mulberry cultivars at different stages after infection with the nematode, Meloidogyne enterolobii, we assembled a total of 55,894 unigenes, among which 33,987 were annotated the in Nr, SWISS-PROT, KEGG, and KOG databases. According to GO and pathway enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), key genes were involved in hormone metabolic processes, plant hormone signal transduction, flavonoid biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and peroxisomal and photosynthetic pathways. Analysis of key trends in co-expression networks, indicated that expression of unigenes 0015083, 0073272, 0004006, and 0000628 was positively correlated with resistance to M. enterolobii. Unigene 0015083 encodes tabersonine 16-O-methyltransferase, ROMT, which is involved in alkaloid biosynthesis. Unigene 0073272 encodes a transcription factor, which contributes to nitric oxide accumulation during plant immune responses. Unigenes 0004006 and 0000628 encode the ERF and MYB transcription factors, respectively, involved in plant hormone signaling. To verify the accuracy of transcriptome sequencing results, 21 DEGs were selected for RT-qPCR verification; the results confirmed the reliability of the sequencing data. Conclusions: The results of the present study increase understanding of and provide insights into the resistance mechanisms and candidate genes involved in mulberry-M. enterolobii interaction. Thus, our data will contribute to the development of effective control measures against this pathogen.
Extraction Process Optimization, Identification, and Profiling of Phenolic Antioxidant Compounds from the Fruits of Ficus auriculata
Authors: Shahinuzzaman M. , Akhtar Parul , Amin N. , Ahmed Yunus , Anuar Farah , Misran H. , Akhtaruzzaman Md.
Published: December 2020

In this study, the extraction conditions to maximize the antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of Ficus auriculata were optimized using response surface methodology. For the purpose of extraction, the Ultrasonic assisted extraction technique was employed. A second-order polynomial model satisfactorily fitted to the experimental findings concerning antioxidant activity (R2 = 0.968, P<0.0001) and total phenolic content (R2 = 0.961, P<0.0001), indicating a significant correlation between the experimental and expected value. The highest antioxidant activity (85.20 ± 0.96 %) for DPPH were achieved at the optimum extraction parameters of 52.5% ethanol (v/v), 40.0 °C temperature, and 22 min extraction time. Alternatively, the highest yield of total phenolic content was found 31.65 ± 0.94 mg GAE/g DF at the optimum extraction conditions. From the LC-ESI-MS profiling of the optimized extract, 18 bioactive compounds were tentatively identified, which may regulate the antioxidant activity of fruits of F. auriculata.
WITHDRAWN: Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi Granule for Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Cohort Study
Authors: Li Yebei , Yan Zhipeng , Wang Kang , Huang Tianlun , Liu Xin , Xu Gaosi
Published: December 2020

Background: The present study aims to explore the relative efficacy and safety of Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi (YSHS) granule in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) patients. Methods: A total of 260 DKD patients with the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥ 30 mg/g and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) > 30 ml/min/1.73 m2 were included. 130 patients receiving YSHS plus irbesartan and 130 patients with irbesartan alone. The primary outcomes were included serum creatinine (Scr), 24-hour urinary protein (24h UTP), UACR, and the overall response rate (ORR). The secondary outcomes included fasting blood glucose (FBG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C). Results: At the end of 12 weeks, compared with the controls, the YSHS group could effectively improve the level of 24h UTP (P = 0.007), UACR (P = 0.001), FBG (P = 0.024), HbA1c (P = 0.005), TC (P = 0.018), TG (P = 0.001), and LDL-C (P = 0.034). The ORR in the YSHS group and control group was 47 % versus 30 % at 12 weeks (P = 0.005), respectively. There was no statistical difference in major adverse reactions between the two groups during treatment.Conclusions: The YSHS granule has significant curative effects on DKD, especially in reducing proteinuria, improving blood glucose and lipid metabolism, with no obvious adverse reactions.
Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 Antigen-Based Rapid Diagnostic Kits in Pakistan: Formulation of COVID-19 National Testing Strategy.
Authors: Saeed Umar , Uppal Sara Rizwan , Piracha Zahra Zahid , Rasheed Azhar , Aftab Zubair , Zaheer Hafsah , Uppal Rizwan
Published: December 2020

Rapid diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 during pandemic enables timely treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Evaluating the accuracy and reliability of rapid diagnostic testing kits is crucial for surveillance and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infections in general population, injection drug users, multi-transfused populations, healthcare workers, prisoners, barbers and other high risk populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate performance and effectiveness of nasopharyngeal swab (NSP) and saliva based rapid antigen detection testing kits in comparison with USFDA approved triple target gold standard real-time polymerase chain reaction. A cross-sectional sectional study was conducted on 33,000 COVID-19 suspected patients. From RT-PCR positive patients, nasopharyngeal swab (NSP) and saliva samples were obtained for evaluation of rapid COVID-19 testing kits (RDT). 100/33000 (0.3%) of specimens were RT-PCR positive for SARS-CoV-2. Among RT-PCR positive, 62% were males, 34% were females, and 4% were children. The NSP-RDT (Lepu Medical China) analysis revealed 53% reactivity among males, 58% reactivity among females, and 25% reactivity among children. However saliva based RDT (Lepu Medical China) analysis showed 21% reactivity among males and 23% among females, and no reactivity in children. False negative results were significantly more pronounced in saliva based RDT as compared to NSP-RDT. The sensitivity of these NSP-RDT and saliva based RDT were 52% and 21% respectively. The RDTs evaluated in this study showed limited sensitivities in comparison to gold standard RT-PCR, indicating that there is a dire need in Pakistan for development of suitable testing to improve accurate COVID-19 diagnosis in line with national demands.
Gametocyte Carriages of Plasmodium falciparum (pfs25) and Plasmodium vivax (pvs25) during Mass Screening and Treatment in West Timor, Indonesia a Longitudinal Prospective Study
Authors: Kosasih Ayleen Alicia , Koepfli Cristian , Dahlan M. Sopiyudin , Hawley William A. , Baird J. Kevin , Mueller Ivo , Lobo Neil F. , Sutanto Inge
Published: December 2020

Background: Three rounds of mass screening and treatment (MST) demonstrated no effect on Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax incidence in West Timor, Indonesia. This study nested within that trial evaluated the effect of MST on gametocyte carriage.Methods: Microscopy and PCR diagnostics were applied to study subjects through 3 months of MST involving dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DHP) and primaquine based on infecting Plasmodium species. RT-qPCR targeting the pfs25 and pvs25 sequences was conducted to detect and quantify gametocytes in blood samples of P. falciparum and P. vivax- infected subjects. Data from the baseline and endpoint were compared (p<=0.05 as the significance threshold).Results:Between baseline and endpoint, prevalence remained unchanged for P. falciparum (6%=52/811 versus 7%=50/740, p=0.838) and decreased slightly for P. vivax (24%=192/811 versus 19%=142/740, p=0.035). No significant difference was observed in gametocyte carriage rates for either P. falciparum (43%=19/44 versus 59%=23/39, OR & 95%CI=1.89, 0.72-4.97) or P. vivax (39%=49/125 versus 37%=39/106, OR & 95%CI=0.90, 0.51-1.59). Despite the insignificant differences between the two time points, the majority of positive subjects at the endpoint were newly parasitemic individuals (new infections) (Pf:92%=46/50, Pv: 65%=93/142). This result was similarly demonstrated for the transmissible stage - where new gametocyte carriers dominated endpoint positive subjects (Pf: 96%=22/23, Pv: 95%=37/39). Conclusion:Although three rounds of MST decreased individual parasitemia and gametocytemia based on diagnosis and treatment, this failed to impact malaria prevalence at a population level due to the development of new infected individuals that can sustain transmission. These observations in part explains why MST failed to impact transmission of malaria in this transmission context.
The Role of Hybrid FDG-PET/MRI on Decision-Making in Presurgical Evaluation of Drug-Resistant Epilepsy.
Authors: Toth Marton , Barsi Peter , Toth Zoltan , Borbely Katalin , Luckl Janos , Emri Miklos , Repa Imre , Janszky Jozsef , Doczi Tamas , Horvath Zsolt , Halasz Peter , Juhos Vera , Gyimesi Csilla , Bone Beata , Kuperczko Diana , Horvath Reka , Nagy Ferenc , Kelemen Anna , Jordan Zsofia , Ujvari Akos , Hagiwara Koichi , Isnard Jean , Pal Endre , Fekeshazy Attila , Fabo Daniel , Vajda Zsolt
Published: December 2020

Background: When MRI fails to detect a potentially epileptogenic lesion, the chance of a favorable outcome after epilepsy surgery becomes significantly lower (from 60-90 % to 20-65 %). Hybrid FDG-PET/MRI may provide additional information for identifying the epileptogenic zone. We aimed to investigate the possible effect of the introduction of hybrid FDG-PET/MRI into the algorithm of the decision-making in both lesional and non-lesional drug-resistant epileptic patients. Methods: In a prospective study of patients suffering from drug-resistant focal epilepsy, 30 MRI-negative and 30 MRI-positive cases with discordant presurgical results were evaluated using hybrid FDG-PET/MRI. Results: The hybrid imaging revealed morphological lesion in 18 patients and glucose hypometabolism in 29 patients within the MRI-negative group. In the MRI positive group, 4 patients were found to be MRI-negative, and in 9 patients at least one more epileptogenic lesion was discovered, while in another 17 cases the original lesion was confirmed by means of hybrid FDG-PET/MRI. As to the therapeutic decision-making, these results helped to indicate resective surgery instead of intracranial EEG (iEEG) monitoring in 2 cases, to avoid any further invasive diagnostic procedures in 7 patients, and to refer 21 patients for iEEG in the MRI-negative group. Hybrid FDG-PET/MRI has also significantly changed the original therapeutic plans in the MRI-positive group. Prior to the hybrid imaging, a resective surgery was considered in 3 patients, and iEEG was planned in 27 patients. However, 3 patients became eligible for resective surgery, 6 patients proved to be inoperable instead of iEEG, and 18 cases remained candidates for iEEG due to the hybrid FDG-PET/MRI. Two patients remained candidates for resective surgery and one patient became not eligible for any further invasive intervention. Conclusions: The results of hybrid FDG-PET/MRI significantly altered the original plans in 19 of 60 cases. The introduction of hybrid FDG-PET/MRI into the presurgical evaluation process had a potential modifying effect on clinical decision-making.Trial registration: Trial registry: Scientific Research Ethics Committee of the Medical Research Council of Hungary. Trial registration number: 008899/2016/OTIG. Date of registration: 08 February 2016.
Intraoperative Monitoring of Visual Evoked Potentials in Patients Undergoing Transsphenoidal Surgery for Pituitary Adenoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmed Farizeh , Cabrilo Ivan , Bal Jarnail , Sanders Brett , Grieve Joan , Dorward Neil L , Marcus Hani J
Published: December 2020

BackgroundTranssphenoidal surgery is the gold standard for pituitary adenoma resection. Although rare, a serious complication of surgery is worsened vision post-operatively. ObjectiveTo determine whether, in patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenoma, intraoperative monitoring of visual evoked potentials (VEP) is a safe, reproducible and effective technological adjunct in predicting postoperative visual function. MethodsThe MEDLINE database was searched between January 1993 and June 2019 to identify publications that (1) featured patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenoma, (2) used intraoperative optic nerve monitoring with VEP and (3) reported on safety or effectiveness. Reference lists were cross-checked and expert opinion sought to identify further publications. ResultsTen studies were included comprising nine case series and one cohort study. All employed techniques to improve reliability. No safety issues were reported. The only comparative study included described a statistically significant improvement in post-operative visual field testing when VEP monitoring was used. The remaining case-series varied in conclusion. In nine studies, surgical manipulation was halted in the event of a VEP amplitude decrease suggesting a widespread consensus that this is a warning sign of injury to the anterior optic apparatus. ConclusionsDespite limited and low-quality published evidence regarding intra-operative VEP monitoring, our review suggests that it is a safe, reproducible and increasingly effective technique of predicting postoperative visual deficits. Further studies specific to transsphenoidal surgery are required to determine its utility in protecting visual function in the resection of complex pituitary tumours, and of other tumours in the anterior skull base.
Young Adult Cancer Risk Behaviours Originate in Adolescence: A Longitudinal Analysis using ALSPAC, a UK birth Cohort Study
Authors: Wright Caroline , Heron Jon , Kipping Ruth R , Hickman Matthew , Campbell Rona , Martin Richard
Published: December 2020

Background: An estimated 40% of cancer cases in the UK in 2015 were attributable to cancer risk behaviours. Tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and unprotected sexual intercourse are known causes of cancer and there is strong evidence that physical inactivity is associated with cancer. These cancer risk behaviours co-occur however little is known about how they pattern longitudinally across adolescence and early adulthood. Using data from ALSPAC, a prospective population-based UK birth cohort study, we explored patterns of adolescent cancer risk behaviours and their associations with cancer risk behaviours in early adulthood. Methods: 6,351 people (46.0% of ALSPAC participants) provided data on all cancer risk behaviours at one time during adolescence, 1,951 provided data on all cancer risk behaviours at all time points. Our exposure measure was a continuous score summarising cumulative exposure to cancer risk behaviours and longitudinal latent classes summarising distinct categories of adolescents exhibiting similar patterns of behaviours, between age 11 and 18 years. Using both exposure measures, odds of harmful drinking (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-C ≥8),daily tobacco smoking, nicotine dependence (Fagerström test ≥4), obesity (BMI ≥30), high waist circumference (females: ≥80cm and males: ≥94cm, and high waist-hip ratio (females: ≥0.85 and males: ≥1.00) at age 24 were estimated using logistic regression analysis. Results: We found distinct groups of adolescents characterised by consistently high and consistently low engagement in cancer risk behaviours. After adjustment, adolescents in the top quartile had greater odds of all outcomes in early adulthood: nicotine dependency (odds ratio, OR=5.37, 95% confidence interval, CI=3.64-7.93); daily smoking (OR=5.10, 95% CI =3.19-8.17); obesity (OR=4.84, 95% CI=3.33-7.03); high waist circumference (OR=2.48, 95% CI=1.94-3.16); harmful drinking (OR=2.04, 95% CI=1.57-2.65); and high waist-hip ratio (OR=1.88, 95% CI=1.30-2.71), compared to the bottom quartile. In latent class analysis, adolescents characterised by consistently high-risk behaviours throughout adolescence were at higher risk of all cancer risk behaviours at age 24, except harmful drinking.Conclusions: Exposure to adolescent cancer risk behaviours greatly increased the odds of cancer risk behaviours in early adulthood. Interventions to reduce these behaviours should target multiple rather than single risk behaviours and should focus on adolescence.
Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis: a prospective study focused on thyroid hormones and functional outcome
Authors: Ji Tuo , Huang Zhi , Lian Yajun , Wang Chengze , Zhang Qiaoman
Published: December 2020

We aimed to investigate the association between thyroid hormones and functional outcome in patients with anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis. 137 consecutive inpatients (2016-2019) were registered prospectively and followed up for 12 months. 96 eligible patients were included in the study. The modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 3-6 was defined as poor functional outcome. Logistic regression analysis was performed. The patients were classified into 3 subgroups based on their free triiodothyronine (fT3) levels, and the subgroup differences were analyzed by parametric or nonparametric tests as appropriate. We found that the fT3 value upon admission was correlated with functional outcome (P=0.004), and this effect remained significant after adjustment for age, gender, tumor presence and consciousness declination. Patients in the low-fT3 subgroup had a higher disease severity during the acute phase, represented by greater maximum mRS scores during hospitalization (P=0.011) and higher percentages of intense care unit admission (p<0.001). In Conclusion,the relatively low fT3 value is associated with a poor functional outcome. Besides, patients with relatively low fT3 tend to have a higher disease severity during the acute phase. Our preliminary data suggest that the fT3 value might serve as a potential predictor of functional outcome in patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis.
Gadollium Nanoparticles Delivery for Low Intensity Focused Ultrasound Diagnosis Ablation of Thyroid Cancer Therapy
Authors: Qi Ming , Zhu Yufeng , Wang Wenjuan , Gao Shufeng , Nie Sihui , Wang Ke , Guo Lingling
Published: December 2020

Chemotherapeutic efficacy can be significantly developed nanotheranostics systems of drug delivery in tumor cells. In this work, we have demonstrated that the self-assembled by C225 conjugates Gd-PFH-NPs (C-Gd-PFH-NPs) for low intensity focused ultrasound diagnosis ablation of thyroid cancer treatment. C-Gd-PFH-NPs have shown excellent stability in PBS. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images also exposed the effective construction of C-Gd-PFH-NPs with commonly spherical sized assemblies. The incubation of the C625 thyroid carcinoma with C-Gd-PFH-NPs triggers apoptosis, which was confirmed by the flowcytometry analysis. The C-Gd-PFH-NPs, with remarkably displays the potent antitumor efficacy in a human C625 thyroid carcinoma xenografts. A histopathological result reveals that precisely achieved to additional confirm these outcomes. Further, we successfully examined the efficiency of C-Gd-PFH-NPs when used the thyroid carcinoma low intensity focused ultrasound diagnosis imaging (LIFUS) in vivo. These findings clearable for LIFUS agents with high performing image and different therapeutic purpose will have extensive possible for the future biomedical purposes.
Enhanced Impact-Resistance of Aeronautical Quasi-Isotropic Composite Plates Through Diffused Water Molecules in Epoxy
Authors: Ahmad Furqan , Abbassi Fethi , Ul-Islam Mazhar , JACQUEMIN Frédéric , Hong Jung-Wuk
Published: December 2020

In order to elucidate the hygroscopic effects on impact-resistance of carbon fiber/epoxy quasi-isotropic composite plates, low-velocity impact tests are conducted on dry and hygroscopically conditioned plates, respectively, under identical configurations. For the impact tests, plates were immersed in the hot water at 80 °C to absorb a different amount of moisture content (MC). Experimental results reveal that the presence of the MC plays a pivotal role by improving the impact-resistance of composite plates. Plates with higher percentage of MC could behave elastically to a larger strain, yielding larger deflection under impact loading. From SEM fractographies, it is observed that small disbanding grows at the interface of epoxy and carbon fiber due to absorbed MC. After absorbing MC, most of impact enegy is dissipated in hygroscopic conditioned composite plates throught elastic deformation and overall less damage is induced in wet composite plates compare to the dry plate. We can postulate that the presence of MC increases the elastic limit as well as ductility of the epoxy by promoting chain segmental mobility of the polymer molecules, which eventually leads to the enhancement of the impact-resistance of wet quasi-isotropic composite plates in comparison with the dry plate.
Transcriptomic and Systematic Analyses Reveal TabZIP Family Members Involved in the Response to Different Concentrations of Auxin in Wheat Root
Authors: Xinyu Tian , Yan Fang , Ziyao Jia , Zhonghua Wang , Jun Wang
Published: December 2020

Background

Auxin involved in many aspects of root development and physiology which is considered a potential target for improving crop quality and yield. Yet, there has been no systematic investigation on roots underlying the response to different concentrations of auxin. This study evaluated the effects of different concentrations of auxin on the wheat root transcriptome. We also investigated the wheat bZIP transcription factor family and preliminarily analyzed the structural function of the members responding to different concentrations of auxin.
Results

In response to 1 µM auxin, 308 and 326 genes whose expression were upregulated and downregulated, respectively, were identified in wheat roots. However, there were 6118 and 2333 genes whose expression were downregulated and upregulated, respectively, in response to 50 µM auxin. GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analyses revealed that the inhibitory effect of 1 µM auxin in roots manifested as an enrichment of the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and glutathione metabolism pathways. Enrichment of the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and plant-pathogen interaction pathways in response to 50 µM auxin indicated a stress response. In addition, A total of 176 TabZIP genes were identified from the wheat genome and gene structure and protein motif analyses indicated that closely clustered TabZIP genes were relatively conserved within each subgroup. There are 4 TabZIPs were downregulated in response to 1 µM auxin, 17 TabZIPs were downregulated and 4 TabZIPs were upregulated in response to 50 µM auxin through the transcriptome data. These auxin-responsive TabZIP genes may be used as candidate genes for root regulation.
Conclusions

The results revealed that the transcriptomes underlying the root regulation in response to these two auxin concentrations were different. These findings provide a comprehensive molecular framework of the auxin regulatory network as well as potential key genes for improving the wheat root system to optimize its absorption of water and nutrients, and finally improve wheat quality and yield.
Expression of IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 Are Associated With Poor Prognosis of Soft-tissue Sarcoma of the Extremities, Superficial Trunk, and Retroperitoneum 
Authors: Kim Kyoung Min , Hussein Usama Khamis , Park See-Hyoung , Moon Young Jae , Zhang Zhongkai , Ahmed Asmaa Gamal , Ahn Ae-Ri , Park Ho Sung , Kim Jung Ryul , Jang Kyu Yun
Published: December 2020

BackgroundIL4Rα and IL13Rα1 are constituents of the type II IL4 receptor. Recently, IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 were reported to have roles in cancer progression and suggested as potential prognostic markers. However, studies on IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 in soft-tissue sarcomas have been limited. MethodsThis study investigated the expression of IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 in 89 soft-tissue sarcomas of the extremities, superficial trunk, and retroperitoneum. ResultsIn human soft-tissue sarcomas, immunohistochemical expression of IL4Rα was significantly associated with IL13Rα1 expression. Nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 were significantly associated with shorter survival of soft-tissue sarcoma patients in univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis indicated that nuclear expression of IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 were independent indicators of shorter overall survival (IL4Rα; p = 0.002, IL13Rα1; p = 0.016) and relapse-free survival (IL4Rα; p = 0.022, IL13Rα1; p < 0.001) of soft-tissue sarcoma patients. Moreover, the co-expression pattern of nuclear IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 was an independent indicator of shorter survival of soft-tissue sarcoma patients (overall survival; overall p < 0.001, relapse-free survival; overall p < 0.001). ConclusionsThis study suggests IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 are associated with the progression of soft-tissue sarcoma, and the expression of IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 might be novel prognostic indicators of soft-tissue sarcoma patients.
Ammonia-Induced Energy Metabolism Disorder and Autophagy via AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 Pathway in Chicken Livers
Authors: Li Zhuo , Miao Zhiying , Ding Linlin , Bao Jun , Teng Xiaohua
Published: December 2020

BackgroundAmmonia (NH3) is a well-known environmental pollution gas, threatening human health. NH3 is also the most harmful gas to poultry for many years. Some studies have found NH3 can damage eyes, respiratory system, and digestive system. However, molecular mechanism of NH3 toxicity on chicken livers remains unclear. MethodsIn this study, we selected chicken liver as research object and successfully duplicated NH3 poisoning model of chickens. The ultrastructure of chicken livers was observed. The activities of ATPases (Na+K+-ATPase, Mg++-ATPase, Ca++-ATPase, and Ca++Mg++-ATPase) and the expression of energy metabolism-related genes (HK1, HK2, PK, PFK, PDHX, CS, LDHA, LDHB, AMPK, SDHA, SDHB, and avUCP) and autophagy-related genes (PI3K, LC3I, LC3II, Beclin1, SQSTM1, mTOR, ULK1, ATG5, ATG12, and ATG13) were measured to explore the effect of NH3 on energy metabolism and autophagy in chicken livers.ResultsOur results showed that excess NH3 caused liver tissue damage. Meanwhile, ATPases activities were inhibited during NH3 treatment. Moreover, we found that NH3 exposure altered the expression of energy metabolism-related and autophagy-related genes. NH3-induced compensatory increase of AMPK activated autophagy process through inhibiting mTOR and promoting ULK1. In addition. there was dose-dependent and time-dependent effects on all detected indexes in NH3-caused chicken liver damage. ConclusionExcess NH3 induced energy metabolism disorder and autophagy via AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 pathway in chicken livers.