bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Conversion of sugar beet residues into lipids by Lipomyces starkeyi for biodiesel production
Authors: Martani Francesca , Maestroni Letizia , Torchio Mattia , Ami Diletta , Natalello Antonino , Lotti Marina , Porro Danilo , Branduardi Paola 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
BackgroundLipids from oleaginous yeasts emerged as a sustainable alternative to vegetable oils and animal fat to produce biodiesel, the biodegradable and environmentally friendly counterpart of petro-diesel fuel. To develop economically viable microbial processes, the use of residual feedstocks as growth and production substrates is required.ResultsIn this work we investigated sugar beet pulp (SBP) and molasses, the main residues of sugar beet processing, as sustainable substrates for the growth and lipid accumulation by the oleaginous yeast Lipomyces starkeyi. We observed that in hydrolysed SBP the yeast cultures reached a limited biomass, cellular lipid content, lipid production and yield (2.5 g/L, 19.2 %, 0.5 g/L and 0.08 g/g, respectively). To increase the initial sugar availability, cells were grown in SBP blended with molasses. Under batch cultivation, the cellular lipid content was more than doubled (47.2 %) in the presence of 6 % molasses. Under pulsed-feeding cultivation, final biomass, cellular lipid content, lipid production and lipid yield were further improved, reaching respectively 20.5 g/L, 49.2 %, 9.7 g/L and 0.178 g/g. Finally, we observed that SBP can be used instead of ammonium sulphate to fulfil yeasts nitrogen requirement in molasses-based media for microbial oil production. ConclusionsThis study demonstrates for the first time that SBP and molasses can be blended to create a feedstock for the sustainable production of lipids by L. starkeyi. The data obtained pave the way to further improve lipid production by designing a fed-batch process in bioreactor.
SCC: An accurate imputation method for scRNA-seq dropouts based on a mixture model
Authors: zheng yan , Zhong Yuanke , Hu Jialu , Shang Xuequn 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) enables the possibility of many in-depth transcriptomic analyses at a single-cell resolution, it’s already widely used for exploring the dynamic development process of life, studying the gene regulation mechanism, and discovering new cell types. However, the low RNA capture rate, which cause highly sparse expression with dropout, makes it difficult to do downstream analyses.Method: Most current methods use bimodal model to fit the gene expression with overwhelming zero. In this paper, we proposed scRNA-seq complementation (SCC) to solve the dropout problem in scRNA-seq data. Firstly, we find the nearest neighbor cells of every cell. Then we use a mixture model to impute the dropouts of scRNA-seq data. The model can identify the possibility of dropouts and estimates the reasonable gene expression value.Results: Experiment results show that SCC gives competitive results compared to two existing methods while showing superiority in reducing the intra-class distance of cells and improving the clustering accuracy in both simulation and real data.Conclusions: SCC is an effective tool to resolve the dropout noise in scRNA-seq data. The code is freely accessible at https://github.com/nwpuzhengyan/SCC.
Use of T-SPOT.TB for the diagnosis of unconventional pleural tuberculosis is superior to ADA in high prevalence areas: A prospective analysis of 601 cases
Authors: Yang Xinting , zhang jing , Liang Qingtao , Pan Liping , Duan Hongfei , Yang Yang , Li Hua , Guo Chao , Sun Qi , Jia Hongyan , Du Boping , Wei Rongrong , Xing Aiying , Zhang Zongde , Chen Xiaoyou 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE) is the most common extrapulmonary manifestation which still has lasting effect on lung function, however conventional diagnostic tests for TPE register multiple limitations. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate diagnostic efficacy of the interferon gamma release assay (IGRA: T-SPOT.TB) in TPE patients of different characteristics comparing to adenosine deaminase (ADA), in order to clarify its appropriate setting in clinical diagnosis.METHODS: We performed a prospective, single-centre study including all suspected pleural effusion patients consecutively from June 2015 to October 2018. By using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, technical cut-offs for all enrolled participants were determined, and the utility of IGRA for pleural fluid (PF) was analysed. We obtained the independent risk factors using logistic regression analysis for TPE and evaluated the performance of the T-SPOT assay stratified by risk factors in comparison to ADA.RESULTS: A total of 601 individuals was consecutively recruited. The maximum of early secretory antigenic target-6 (ESAT-6) and culture filtrate protein-10 (CFP-10) in the PF T-SPOT assay had the best diagnostic efficiency in our study, with a sensitivity of 83.0% and a specificity of 83.1%. The corresponding cut-off value was 466 SFCs/106 mononuclear cells, which was equal to ADA (0.885 vs 0.887, P=0.957) and superior to PB. Among the TPE patients with low ADA (<40 IU/L), the sensitivity and specificity of PF T-SPOT were still 87.9% and 90.5%, respectively. The utility of ADA was negatively related to increasing age, but the PF T-SPOT test had a steady performance at all ages. Age (<45 yrs; odds ratio (OR) = 5.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.59-8.78; P<0.001), gender (male; OR = 2.68, 95% CI 1.75-2.88; P<0.001) and body mass index (BMI) (<22; OR = 1.93, 95% CI 1.30-2.88; P=0.001) were independently associated with the risk of TB by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Notably, when stratified by risk factor, the sensitivity of PF T-SPOT was superior to the sensitivity (76.5% vs. 23.5%, P=0.016) for ADA and had noninferior specificity (84.4% vs. 96.9%, P=0.370).CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, the overall potency of the PF T-SPOT assay is equal to that of ADA for diagnosing TPE. In addition, the PF T-SPOT assay can effectively discriminate TPE patients whose ADA is lower than 40 IU/L and is extremely superior to ADA in unconventional TPE patients (age≥45 yrs, female or BMI≥22). The PF T-SPOT assay is an excellent choice to supplement ADA to diagnose TPE.
A novel research method for workshops and co-production of interventions: using a secret Facebook group
Authors: Buelo Audrey , Kirk Alison , Jepson Ruth 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Co-production of interventions is reliant on good communication and consensus between participants and researchers but attending in-person meetings and workshops is hard for time-constrained groups such as new mums, who may be geographically dispersed without reliable transport. Discussions with a lay advisory group resulted in the decision to hold a workshop over a secret Facebook group. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility a secret Facebook group for co-production activities. In the example presented, the population was women with previous gestational diabetes; the topic was physical inactivity; and the purpose was to develop an acceptable physical activity intervention.Methods: The researchers created a secret Facebook group with content similar to an in-person workshop that sequentially progressed to develop a programme theory for an intervention. The researcher posted 1-2 times per day for 14 days and members of the group were invited to comment and discuss the content. Feasibility and acceptability of the group were analysed using Facebook analytics and a post-workshop survey.Results: Twenty-one participants took part. In total, 521 comments were provided in response to 18 posts of varying types (average = 28.9 comments per post). The total word count of participant comments was 21,142 words. The workshop was viewed positively, with 20 of 21 participants saying they liked the workshop ‘somewhat’ or ‘a great deal’, and felt the group was a safe and open environment to share opinions. When asked if they would take part in something like this again, 15 of 21 said “Yes”. Participants mentioned the format was convenient; it allowed them to reflect on their experiences and they liked helping research progress. Those who say “maybe” said it was difficult finding time and depended on what else was going on.Conclusion: Using a secret Facebook group as a method of co-production or as a workshop in the research process is a feasible and acceptable method. Social media holds significant potential for co-production and involvement in research for populations who are geographically dispersed or time-constrained; with an uncommon condition; or other circumstances where in-person meetings are either not appropriate or not possible.
Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Contraceptives Among Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Sharma Aanchal , McCabe Edward , Jani Sona , Gonzalez Anthony , Demissie Seleshi , Lee April 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Despite endorsements supporting the use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) for adolescents and young adult women (AYA), they have limited knowledge about them Male partners can influence contraceptive decisions, however their perceived knowledge about IUDs is lower than their objective knowledge. We aim to establish current AYA baseline contraceptive knowledge and attitudes so providers can better target their sexual health educational interventions.Methods: Females and males, aged 13 to 23 years old, from our suburban adolescent clinic, completed an anonymous survey that assessed their knowledge and attitudes towards methods of contraception, with an emphasis on the IUD.Results: Completed surveys totaled 130 (99 females/31 males). Demographic results revealed 31.3% Black/African-American, 30.5% Latino/Hispanic, 17.6% White, 3.0% Asian, and 14.5% Other. The majority of participants (80%) were sexually active. The majority (69.5%) stated they/their partner were currently using a contraceptive method; only 2.6% used IUDs. Half of females (56.6%) and 10.1% of males had heard of IUDs. Despite this, male and female participants lacked knowledge regarding specific IUD facts. Of the participants who had used emergency contraception (EC), only 6.4% knew the copper IUD could be used for EC.Conclusion: Contraceptive knowledge deficits, especially regarding the IUD, continue to exist for AYA patients. Many participants stated they required EC despite “satisfaction” with their birth control method(s) and most were unaware that the copper IUD could be used as EC. These discrepancies highlight the importance of comprehensive contraceptive education for AYA patients. Enhanced and consistent contraceptive options counseling can help providers ensure that their AYA patients make well-informed decisions about family planning, thus improving their quality of life.
Association of Adipocytokines with Lipid and Glycemic Profiles in Women with Normal Weight Obesity
Authors: Taheri Ehsaneh , Hosseini Saeed , Qorbani Mostafa , Mirmiran Parvin 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Individuals with normal weight obesity (NWO) are prone to cardiometabolic disorders. This study aims to investigate the circulating levels of vaspin, leptin and their association with glycemic and lipid profiles in women with NWO.Methods: Forty women with body mass index (BMI) = 18.5-24.9 kg/m2 and fat mass (FM) ≥ 30% were assigned in the NWO group. Thirty age-matched women with identical BMI range and FM < 30% (normal weight non-obese; NWNO) were considered as a control group. In addition to anthropometric measurements, glycemic and lipid profiles and also, circulating levels of leptin and vaspin were measured.Results: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) age of participants was 28.76 ± 4.76 years in the NWO group and 29.23 ± 4.50 years in the control group. The NWO group had higher mean serum levels of insulin (9.02 ± 4.75 vs. 6.24 ± 2.51, P = 0.009), leptin (17.31 ± 8.10 vs. 9.94 ± 4.30, P < 0.001) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (33.77 ± 20.71 vs. 23.48 ± 10.03, P = 0.009) compared to the NWNO group. Serum level of vaspin was higher in the NWO group compared to the control group (34.82 pg/ml vs. 27.72 pg/ml, respectively, P = 0.12). In NWO group, serum levels of leptin correlated positively with FBS (r = 0.45, P = 0.02), insulin (r = 0.51, P = 0.008), and HOMA-IR (r = 0.46, P = 0.02) and vaspin concentration was positively associated with insulin (r = 0.36, P = 0.02) and HOMA-IR (r = 0.30, P = 0.06).Conclusion: It is concluded that the concentration of insulin and HOMA-IR index were significantly higher in women with NWO compared to NWNO. Higher levels of leptin and vaspin in the NWO group were associated with glycemic profiles.
Dendritic cells transduced with TIPE-2 recombinant adenovirus induces T cells suppression
Authors: Liu Shudong , wang jie , Li Wenyan , Shi Hui , Zhou Changlong , Tang Ge , Zhang Jiangwei , yang zhao 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Introduction: TIPE-2 has been identified as a negative regulator of both innate and adaptive immunity and is involved in several inflammatory diseases. However, the role of immune suppression of dendritic cells (DCs) transduced with TIPE-2 has not been well studied. Methods: In this study, DCs were transduced with TIPE-2 recombinant adenovirus, and then were cocultured with allogeneic CD4+ or CD8+T cells. The proliferation, cytokine production and activation marker levels of CD4+ or CD8+T cell were detected. Results: The data demonstrated that T cell proliferation, cytokine production and activation marker levels were attenuated after treated with TIPE-2 transduced DCs. Conclusions: These results suggested that TIPE-2 transduced DCs are capable of inducing allogeneic CD4+ or CD8+T cell immune suppression, which provide a promising way for the therapeutical strategies of transplantation or autoimmune diseases.
The miR-200c/FUT4 axis prevents the proliferation of colon cancer cells by downregulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Cong Jinchun , Yang Chuanjia , Xia Zhixiu , Gong Jian , Zhang Hong 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
BackgroundMicroRNA(miR)-200c has been widely reported to be involved in colon cancer progress. However, the mechanisms of miR-200c in regulating tumor metastasis and growth remain to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of miR-200c targets fucosyltransferase 4 (FUT4) on the proliferation of colon cancer.MethodsThe miR-200c and FUT4 mRNA levels in LoVo and SW480 cells were measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Further, miR-200c mimic, FUT4 siRNA and FUT4 mimic were transfected into cells, separately. Cell counting kit-8, plate colony formation and transwell assays were used to analyse the cells biological behaviour.. Immunofluorescence was used to analyse the Ki-67 expression Moreover, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins were detected by western blots. A double luciferase experiment was performed to confirm the relationship between miR-200c and FUT4. In vivo, tumour growth and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins were also analysed.ResultsIn vitro, the expression of miR-200c and FUT4 were negatively correlated in LoVo and SW480 cells (correlation coefficients were -0.9046 and -0.9236, respectively). MiR-200c overexpression inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of LoVo and SW480 cells by downregulating FUT4. The Ki67-positive cells and Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway-related proteins were reduced in the miR-200c overexpression and FUT4 silencing groups. A dual luciferase reporting system identified FUT4 as the target of miR-200c. The results in vivo were further confirmed the foundation of cells study.ConclusionsIn summary, miR-200c overexpression inhibits proliferation of colon cancer targeting FUT4 to downregulate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which promises molecular targets to inhibit metastasis for colon cancer therapy.
High expression of Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) predicts poor outcome in high-grade serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Li Min , Cheng Xue , Rong Rong , Gao Yan , Tang Xiuwu , Chen Youguo 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is a fatal form of ovarian cancer. Previous studies indicated some potential biomarkers for clinical evaluation of HGSOC prognosis. However, there is a lack of systematic analysis of different expression genes (DEGs) to screen and detect significant biomarkers of HGSOC.Methods: TCGA database was conducted to analyze relevant genes expression in HGSOC. Outcomes of candidate genes expression, including overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), were calculated by Cox regression analysis for hazard rates (HR). Histopathological investigation of the identified genes was carried out in 151 Chinese HGSOC patients to validate gene expression in different stages of HGSOC.Results: Of all 57,331 genes that were analyzed, FAP was identified as the only novel gene that significantly contributed to both OS and PFS of HGSOC. In addition, FAP had a consistent expression profile between carcinoma-paracarcinoma and early-advanced stages of HGSOC. Immunological tests in paraffin section also confirmed that up-regulation of FAP was present in advanced stage HGSOC patients. Prediction of FAP network association suggested that FN1 could be a potential downstream gene which further influenced HGSOC survival.Conclusions: High-level expression of FAP was associated with poor prognosis of HGSOC via FN1 pathway.
Perceived facilitators and barriers to chronic disease management in primary care networks: a qualitative study
Authors: Foo Chuan De , Surendran Shilpa , Tam Chen Hee , Ho Elaine Qiao Ying , Matchar David Bruce , Car Josip , Koh Gerald Choon Huat 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Objective: The increasing chronic disease burden has placed tremendous strain on tertiary healthcare resources in most countries, necessitating a shift in chronic disease management from tertiary to primary care providers. Therefore, the Primary Care Network (PCN) policy was promulgated as a model of care to organise private general practitioners (GPs) into groups to provide GPs with resources to anchor patients with chronic conditions with them in the community. As the PCN is still in its embryonic stages, there is a void in research regarding its ability to empower GPs to manage chronic patients effectively. This qualitative study aims to explore the facilitators and barriers for the management of chronic patients by GPs enrolled in the PCN. Design: We conducted 30 semi-structured interviews with GPs enrolled in a PCN followed by a thematic analysis of audio transcripts until data saturation was achieved. Setting: Singapore Results: Our results suggest that PCNs facilitated GPs to more effectively manage chronic patients through 1) provision of ancillary services such as diabetic foot screening, diabetic retinal photography and nurse counselling to permit a “one-stop-shop”, 2) systematic monitoring of process and clinical outcome indicators through a chronic disease registry (CDR) to promote accountability for patients’ health outcomes and 3) funding streams for PCNs to hire additional manpower to oversee operations and to reimburse GPs for extended consultations. Barriers include high administrative load in maintaining the CDR due to the lack of a smart electronic clinic management system and financial gradient faced by patients seeking services from private GPs which incur higher out-of-pocket expenses than public primary healthcare institutions.Conclusion: PCNs demonstrate great promise in empowering enrolled GPs to manage chronic patients. However, barriers will need to be addressed to ensure the viability of PCNs in managing more chronic patients in the face of an ageing population.
How to improve the transition process to independent living for adolescents with profound intellectual disabilities? Experiences from parents and employees.
Authors: Roos Eirik , Sondenaa Erik 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe transition process from the family home to independent living for young adults with profound intellectual disability (PID) becomes delayed. Those families face challenges that exceed those of typical families such as higher objective and subjective burden, more frequent psychological distress and lower social support. The aim of this study was to explore the collaboration process between parents and employees and identify factors that improve the transition with less burden.MethodsA descriptive qualitative study was undertaken with 18 persons (9 parents and 9 employees) interviewed individually and in groups. In accordance with the municipality`s guidelines, families with profound intellectual disability (PID) child should apply for housing, when the child turns 16. The purpose is to ensure interdisciplinary collaboration, information flow and coordinated services according to family’s needs. The main question in the interviews was ‘What was your experience with cooperation in the transition process, and what would you do to improve this process?’ The interviews were analysed with a thematic approach using systematic text condensation.ResultsThe parents experienced a lack of general information about the ‘housing waiting list’, level of services, and the plan for time of moving from the family home, and how to choose where and whom to live with. Parents described that they had an unsustainable burden of care during the waiting period, and a family crisis caused the allocation of an apartment in a group house. Employees shared challenges to meet families’ wishes, as there were too few group homes. They experienced good collaboration with families and said they offered respite care, due to reduce parents’ burden of care. Employees experienced that PID children developed skills, mastery and degrees of independence after completing a residency at the Folk High School.ConclusionsTo improve the transition process from family home to independent living for young adults with PID, the informants highlighted some factors to reduce the burden of care to families: 1) Systematic follow-up program for families to observe their needs at an early stage 2) More available group houses 3) Information about the housing-priorities of the services and 4) Educational preparing programs to families.