bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Phylogeny of teleost connexins reveals highly inconsistent intra- and interspecies use of nomenclature and misassemblies in recent teleost chromosome assemblies
Authors: Mikalsen Svein Ole , Tausen Marni , Kongsstovu Sunnvør í 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Based on an initial collecting of database sequences from the gap junction protein gene family (also called connexin genes) in a few teleosts, the naming of these sequences appeared variable. The reasons could be (i) that the structure in this family is variable across teleosts, or (ii) unfortunate naming. Rather clear rules for the naming of genes in fish and mammals have been outlined by nomenclature committees, including the naming of orthologous and ohnologous genes. We therefore analyzed the connexin gene family in teleosts in more detail. We covered the range of divergence times in teleosts (eel, Atlantic herring, zebrafish, Atlantic cod, three-spined stickleback, Japanese pufferfish and spotted pufferfish; listed from early divergence to late divergence).
Results: The gene family pattern of connexin genes is similar across the analyzed teleosts. However, (i) several nomenclature systems are used, (ii) specific orthologous groups contain genes that are named differently in different species, (iii) several distinct genes have the same name in a species, and (iv) some genes have incorrect names. The latter includes a human connexin pseudogene, claimed as GJA4P , but which in reality is Cx39.2P (a delta subfamily gene often called GJD2like ). We point out the ohnologous pairs of genes in teleosts, and we suggest a more consistent nomenclature following the outlined rules from the nomenclature committees. We further show that connexin sequences can indicate some errors in two high-quality chromosome assemblies that became available very recently.
Conclusions: Minimal consistency exists in the present practice of naming teleost connexin genes. A consistent and unified nomenclature would be an advantage for future automatic annotations and would make various types of subsequent genetic analyses easier. Additionally, roughly 5% of the connexin sequences point out misassemblies in the new high-quality chromosome assemblies from herring and cod.
The potential relationship between neurobehavioral toxicity and visual dysfunction of BDE-209 on zebrafish larvae: A pilot study
Authors: Zhang Bin , Xu Ting , Yin Daqiang , Wei Sheng 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Although listed in the Stockholm Convention, commercial Decabromodiphenyl ether (c-DecaBDE) is still being produced in many factories and used as a kind of flame retardants primarily in plastic polymers and textiles. Widespread use offered many exposure ways of its major ingredient, BDE-209, to humans and the environment. Most current studies of BDE-209 focused on the health effects and toxicity of thyroid disruption, oxidative stress, neurotoxicity and reproductive function, but seldom spread light on the relationship between neurobehavioral toxicity and visual dysfunction. Using zebrafish larvae model, we hope to uncover the potential relationship between the neurobehavioral and visual effects after exposure to BDE-209.
Results: BDE-209 exposure could not induce the changes of locomotion and path angle in 5 days post fertilization (dpf) larvae, however, 5 μg/L BDE-209 exposure caused locomotor hyperactivity and more responsive turns at 7 dpf. The social activity of 50 μg/L exposure group was significantly higher than the control group at 6 dpf. Besides, 5 and 50 μg/L exposure caused the upregulation and downregulation of four cone opsin genes, respectively. The expression of rhodopsin gene was not influenced by both concentration exposures.
Conclusion: The neurobehavioral effects induced by 5 μg/L BDE-209 exposure were consistent with the upregulation of four cone opsins in 7 dpf larvae. The low concentration of BDE-209 exposure caused the hyperactivity and more responsive turns of larvae possibly contributing to the disruption on the cone opsin expressions of larvae. Our results would provide the mechanism cue of neurobehavioral toxicity after BDE-209 exposure and call for more attention on the ecotoxicology studies of BDE-209.
Characterization of Cystoisospora suis sexual stages in vitro
Authors: Feix Anna Sophia , Cruz-Bustos Teresa , Ruttkowski Bärbel , Joachim Anja 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: The porcine coccidium Cystoisospora suis is characterized by a complex life cycle during which asexual multiplication is followed by sexual development with two morphologically distinct cell types, the micro- and macrogametes. Genes related to the sexual stages and cell cycle progression were previously identified in related Apicomplexa. Here, the sexual stages of C. suis were characterized in vitro morphologically and for temporal expression changes of the mentioned genes to gain insight into this poorly known phase of coccidian development. Methods: Sexual stages of C. suis (micro- and macrogametes) developing in vitro in porcine intestinal epithelial cells were examined by light and electron microscopy. The transcriptional levels of genes related to merozoite multiplication and sexual development were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR at different time points of cultivation. Dynein light chain type 1 and male gamete fusion factor HAP2 expression is presumably restricted to microgametes. Tyrosin-rich proteins are a part of the wall-forming bodies and oocyst wall proteins. The RAD51/Dmc1 protein plays a role during the cell division process, and Nima-related protein kinases regulate the cell cycle and are associated with male or female Plasmodium gametocytes. Transcription levels were compared for parasites in culture supernatants at 6–9 doc (day of cultivation) and intracellular parasites at 6–15 doc. Results: Sexual stage of C. suis could be found during 8–11 doc in vitro. Microgamonts (16.8±0.9 µm) and macrogamonts (16.6±1.1 µm) are very similar in shape and size. Microgametes had a round body (3.5±0.5 µm) and two flagella (11.2±0.5 µm). Macrogametes were spherical with a diameter of 12.1±0.5 µm. Merozoite gene transcription peaked on 10 doc and then declined. Genes related to the sexual stages and cell cycle showed an upregulation with a peak on 13 doc, after which they declined. Conclusions: The present work linked gene expression changes to the detailed morphological description of C. suis sexual development in vitro, including fertilization, meiosis and oocyst formation in this unique model for coccidian parasites. Following this process at the cellular and molecular level will elucidate details on potential bottlenecks of development of C. suis (applicable for coccidian parasites in general) which could be exploited as novel target for control.
Inapropriate Use of Antibiotics Effective Against Gram Positive Microorganism in Under Restrictive Antibiotic Policies in ICU; A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Özger Hasan Selçuk , Fakıoğlu Dolunay Merve , Erbay Kübra , ALBAYRAK ASLINUR , Hızel Kenan 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background Gram-positive spectrum antibiotics such as vancomycin, teicoplanin, daptomycin ,and linezolid are frequently used in empirical treatment combinations in critically ill patients Although they are included in the national antibiotic restriction program, thought to be inappropriate, unnecessary and suboptimal use is high due to their widespread use. In our study, in addition to their widespread use, gram-positive spectrum antibiotics were evaluated due to their use in more limited and clear clinical indications. This study aims to determine the frequency of inappropriate uses of gram-positive spectrum antibiotics and risk factors for inappropriate use according to different quality parameters. Methods This clinical study was conducted prospectively between 01.10.2018 and 01.10.2019 in the medical and surgical ICUs of Gazi University Faculty of Medicine Hospital with a total bed capacity of 55. Patients older than 18 years of age onset of gram-positive spectrum antibiotics (vancomycin, teicoplanin, linezolid ,and daptomycin) were included. Patients under the age of eighteen or immunosuppressed (neutropenic, HIV-infected patients with hematologic or solid organ malignancies) were not included in the study. The demographic and clinical features of the patients were recorded. The treatment was also evaluated and recorded by 2 infectious diseases specialists and 2 clinical pharmacists except for the clinical staff at 24-hour intervals from the first day to the last day of treatment. SPSS software for Windows, version 17 (IBM, Armonk, NY) was used to analyze the data. Categorical variables are presented as number and percentage, and non-categorical variables are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Results In the use of antibiotics, the incidence of non-compliance with at least one of the determined quality parameters was 83%. Multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate risk factors for inappropriate antibiotic use, and creatine values ​​were found to increase the risk of inappropriate antibiotic use. Conclusions In spite of the restricted antibiotic program, inappropriate antibiotic use in ICUs is quite common. In particular, it is necessary to establish local guidelines in collaboration with different disciplines for the determination and follow-up of de-escalation and optimal treatment doses
Bacterial Typing and Identification Based on Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Huayan , Wu Fangling , Xu Fuxin , Tang Keqi , Ding Chuanfan , Shi Haimei , Yu Shaoning 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is a label-free and highly sensitive technique that provides complete information on the chemical composition of biological samples. The bacterial FT-IR signals are extremely specific and highly reproducible fingerprint-like patterns, making FT-IR an efficient tool for bacterial typing and identification. Due to the low cost and high flux, FT-IR has been widely used in hospital hygiene management for infection control, epidemiological studies, and routine bacterial determination of clinical laboratory values. However, the typing and identification accuracy could be affected by many factors, and the bacterial FT-IR data from different laboratories are usually not comparable. A standard protocol is required to improve the accuracy of FT-IR-based typing and identification. Here, we detail the principles and procedures of bacterial typing and identification based on FT-IR spectroscopy, including bacterial culture, sample preparation, instrument operation, spectra collection, spectra preprocessing, and mathematical data analysis. Without bacterial culture, a typical experiment generally takes <2 h.
ERK3 is transcriptionally upregulated by ∆Np63α and mediates the role of ∆Np63α in suppressing cell migration in Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
Authors: Alshammari Eid S. , Aljagthmi Amjad A. , Stacy Andrew J. , Bottomley Mike , Shamma H. Nicholas , Kadakia Madhavi , Long Weiwen 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: p63, a member of the p53 gene family, is an important regulator for epithelial tissue growth and development. ∆Np63α is the main isoform of p63 and highly expressed in Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 3 (ERK3) is an atypical mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) whose biochemical features and cellular regulation are distinct from those of conventional MAPKs such as ERK1/2. While ERK3 has been shown to be upregulated in lung cancers and head and neck cancers, in which it promotes cancer cell migration and invasion, little is known about the implication of ERK3 in NMSCs. Methods: Fluorescent immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression levels of DNp63a and ERK3 in normal and NMSC specimens. Dunnett’s test was performed to compare mean fluorescence intensity (MFI, indicator of expression levels) of p63 or ERK3 between normal cutaneous samples and NMSC samples (i.e., Actinic Keratosis (AK), a precursor to invasive squamous cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC)). A mixed effects (ANOVA) test was used to determine the correlation between DNp63a and ERK3 expression levels (MFI). The regulation of ERK3 by DNp63a was studied by qRT-PCR, Western blot and luciferase assay. The effect of ERK3 regulation by DNp63a on cell migration was measured by performing trans-well migration assay. Results: The expression levels of both ∆Np63α and ERK3 proteins are upregulated in NMSCs compared to normal tissues. There is a strong positive correlation between ∆Np63α and ERK3 expression in normal skin and patients with AK, SCC and BCC. Further, we found that ∆Np63α positively regulates ERK3 transcript and protein levels in A431 and HaCaT skin cells, underlying the upregulation of ERK3 expression and its positive correlation with ∆Np63α in NMSCs. Moreover, similar to the effect of ∆Np63α depletion, silencing ERK3 greatly enhanced A431 cell migration. Restoration of ERK3 expression under the condition of silencing ∆Np63α counteracted the increase in cell migration induced by the depletion of ∆Np63α. Conclusions: ERK3 is positively regulated by ∆Np63α and mediates the role of ∆Np63α in suppressing cell migration in NMSC.
Lipid profile and left ventricular geometry pattern in obese children
Authors: Bjelakovic Bojko , Stefanutti Claudia , Vukovic Vladimir , Kavaric Nebojsa , Saranac Ljiljana , Lukic Stevo , Klisic Aleksandra , Stankovic Sanja , Jovic Maja , Prijic Sergej , Bjelakovic Marko , Banach Maciej 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an important risk factor for cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Previous studies reported conflicting results concerning the relationship between serum lipid levels and left ventricular geometry pattern. We sought to explore the relationship between standard serum lipid profile measures with left ventricular geometry pattern in obese children. Patients and methods : In this cross-sectional study, a total of 70 obese children were examined. Fasting blood samples were taken to measure total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TGs), glucose, and insulin. Based on these values TG / HDL ratio, BMI and HOMA index were calculated. We also measured the average 24-hour ambulatory systolic blood pressure (SBP) and two-dimensional (2/D) transthoracic echocardiography was performed to determine left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and relative wall thickness (RWT). Multiple regression analyses with stepwise selection were conducted to explore relationships between study variables and the LVMI or RWT as outcome variables. The final model with LVMI included TG/HDL ratio, BMI, 24h-average SBP, age and sex, while for the RWT we included BMI, insulin, age and sex. Results : Our study included 70 children (65.71% boys and 34.29% girls) with median age (14 years, IQR=12-16)." We demonstrated independent and positive association of TG/HDL ratio, BMI and 24h-average SBP with LVMI (effect=3.65, SE=1.32, p<0.01; effect=34.90, SE=6.84, p<0.01; effect=0.32, SE=0.12, p<0.01, respectively). On the other hand, in model with RWT as outcome variable, only BMI and insulin were significantly linked (BMI: effect=13.07, SE=5.02, p=0.01 Insulin: effect=2.80, SE=0.97). Conclusion: Increased TG/HDL ratio in obese children is associated with the development of eccentric left ventricular hypertrophy while increased BMI and insulin were associated with concentric left ventricular hypertophy.
The effect of active occupational stress management on psychosocial and physiological wellbeing
Authors: Jukic Tomislav , Ihan Alojz , Stubljar David 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: The aim of the study was to address the working population with an occupational stress prevention program using mHealth solution and encourage healthy lifestyle choices.Methods: 16 participants were randomized from the corporate setting. A 24alife app with a good compliance program was selected. Test battery has been designed to test the physical readiness, psychological state of stress and to assess biological blood markers for stress. Participants were followed up after 30, 60 and 90 days, respectively, within the intervention period. Blood pressure and weight were tracked 3 times per month. At least once a week, but on average 6 times per month, participants also led the food diary. Univariate analysis compared the continuous variables by Student's t-test for the data that were normally distributed, or Wilcoxon rank sum test for abnormal distribution of variables.Results: Participants used the app with a compliance rate of 100%. The psychological evaluation revealed higher motivation for work, lower burnout scores and participants gave subjective responses of better general wellbeing. Some of the participants lost up to 4 kg of body mass. Physical readiness has significantly improved.Conclusions: Results of mHealth projects on corporate could include primary health care institutions and health ministry to extend the existing system to patients’ pockets where they can monitor their disease and increase the ability of self-care.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) findings in Serpiginous Choroiditis
Authors: Macedo Sergio , Pohlmann Dominika , Lenglinger Matthias , Pleyer Uwe , Joussen Antonia M. , Winterhalter Sibylle 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background. To describe changes in the retina/choroid in patients with Serpiginous Choroiditis (SC) by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) in a multimodal imaging approach. Methods. Prospective, monocentric study of 24 eyes of 12 consenting patients diagnosed with SC, who underwent OCTA, which was analyzed and compared to other methods such as enhanced depth imaging-OCT, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and fundus autofluorescence. Results. The study group consisted of 9 patients with peripapillary SC, 1 macular SC, and 2 atypical cases. All eyes presented an inactive SC confirmed by standard imaging. OCTA demonstrated the lesions tridimensionally in great detail. There was no difference in the angioarchitecture among the 3 forms of SC. A loss of the choriocapillaris/retinal pigment epithelium left a “window-defect”, where the vessels of larger caliber of the choroid became recognizable and their appearance inverted (“white-on-black”). A relationship between the presence of segmentation errors (SE) in the slabs and low visual acuity was established with a one-way ANOVA. Conclusions. OCTA was able to non-invasively assess vascular lesions of the choroid/retina in patients with SC with a high degree of correlation to other diagnostic modalities. Consequent long-term assessments could lead to a better understanding of disease progression.
Disparities of indoor temperature in winter: a cross-sectional analysis of the nationwide Smart Wellness Housing survey in Japan
Authors: Umishio Wataru , Ikaga Toshiharu , Fujino Yoshihisa , Ando Shintaro , Kubo Tatsuhiko , Nakajima Yukie , Hoshi Tanji , Suzuki Masaru , Kario Kazuomi , Yoshimura Takesumi , Yoshino Hiroshi , Murakami Shuzo 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background In modern society, humans spend 60–70% of their time at home, housing environment is of great importance to health. In support of the importance, WHO issued Housing and Health Guidelines in 2018. The guidelines show that cold indoor temperatures have adverse health consequences, and suggest a recommended indoor temperature of 18°C. However, it is unclear who lives in cold homes in real-world settings. We aimed to examine “what are the common characteristics of residents who live in low-indoor-temperature environments.” Methods We conducted a nationwide survey on indoor temperature who intended to conduct insulation retrofitting in Japan. Indoor temperature was measured in the living room, bedroom, and changing room for 2 weeks in winter seasons (November−March) of 2014 to 2019. The relationship between characteristics of residents and living room temperature was analyzed using a multilevel model. Results Cross-sectional analyses involving 2,190 households showed that the average temperature in the living room, bedroom and changing room was 16.8°C, 12.8°C and 13.0°C, respectively. Living room temperature was highest (19.8˚C) in Hokkaido, where outdoor temperatures are lower than in other areas, and lowest (13.1˚C) in Kagawa, which is considered to have a mild climate. A multilevel analysis showed that the odds ratio for living room temperature in the morning falling below 18˚C was 1.38 (95% CI: 1.04−1.84) for the middle income group and 2.07 (95% CI: 1.28−3.33) for the low income group, compared to the high income group. The odds ratio was 1.96 (95% CI: 1.19−3.22) for single-person households, compared to households living with housemates. Furthermore, lower room temperature was also correlated with kotatsu (traditional Japanese local heating device) use and a larger amount of clothes. Conclusions There were disparities in living room temperature within Japan, and they related to socioeconomic status, single-person households and the way of living. These housing disparities have the potential to cause health disparities. We expect these results will be useful in the development of prevention strategies for residents who live in cold homes and the reduction in health disparities.
NaCl improves reproduction by enhancing starch accumulation in the ovules of the euhalophyte Suaeda salsa
Authors: Guo Jianrong , Du Ming , Lu Chaoxia , Wang Baoshan 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background: Halophytes show optimal reproduction under high-salinity conditions. However, the role of NaCl in reproduction and its possible mechanisms in the euhalophyte Suaeda salsa remain to be elucidated. Results: We performed transcript profiling of S. salsa flowers and measured starch accumulation in ovules, sugar contents in flowers, and photosynthetic parameters in the leaves of plants supplied with 0 and 200 mM NaCl. Starch accumulation in ovules, sugar contents in flowers and ovules, and net photosynthetic rate and photochemical efficiency in leaves were significantly higher in NaCl-treated plants vs. the control. We identified 14,348 differentially expressed genes in flowers of NaCl-treated vs. control plants. Many of these genes were predicted to be associated with photosynthesis, carbon utilization, and sugar and starch metabolism. These genes are crucial for maintaining photosystem structure, regulating electron transport, and improving photosynthetic efficiency in NaCl-treated plants. In addition, genes encoding fructokinase and sucrose phosphate synthase were upregulated in flowers of NaCl-treated plants. Conclusions: The higher starch and sugar contents in the ovules and flowers of S. salsa in response to NaCl treatment are likely due to the upregulation of genes involved in photosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism, which increase photosynthetic efficiency and accumulation of photosynthetic products under these conditions.