bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Contribution to understanding the evolution of holometaboly: Transformation of internal head structures during the metamorphosis in the green lacewing Chrysopa pallens (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Authors: Zhao Chenjing , Ang Yuchen , Wang Mengqing , Gao Caixia , Zhang Kuiyan , Tang Chufei , Liu Xingyue , Li Min , Yang Ding , Meier Rudolf 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background：Metamorphosis remains one of the most complicated and poorly understood processes in insects. This is particularly so for the very dynamic transformations that take place within the pupal sheath of holometabolous insects. Only few studies address these transformations especially with regard to cranial structures of those holometabolous species where the larval and adult forms have a similar diet. It thus remains unclear to what extent the internal structures undergo histolysis and rebuilding. Here, the development of the brain and skeleto-muscular system of the head of Chrysopa pallens (Rambur, 1838) is studied. This species is a predator of aphids in the larval and adult stage.Results：We used micro-computed-tomography (µ-CT) to study the transformations of the larval, prepupal and pupal head within the cocoon. We first assessed the morphological differences and similarities between the stages. We then determined the point in time when the compound eyes appear and describe the re-orientation of the head capsule which transforms the prognathous larva into a hypognathous adult. The internal head muscles are distinctly more slender in larvae than adults. In addition, the adults have a significantly larger brain which is likely needed for the processing of the signals obtained by the adults’ vastly expanded sensory organs that are presumably needed for dispersal and mating. Our study shows that the histolysis and modification of the inner muscles and skeletal elements take place within the prepupa. The central nervous system persists throughout metamorphosis but its morphology changes significantly. Conclusion：Our study reveals that not only the inner structures, but also the outer morphology continues to change after the final larval moult. The adult cuticle and internal structures form gradually within the cocoon. The histolysis and rebuilding begins with the skeletal elements and is followed by changes in the central nervous system before it concludes with modifications of the musculature. This order of events is likely ancestral for Holometabola because it is also known from Hymenoptera, Diptera, Mecoptera, and Coleoptera.
The"slide technique"-a novel free-hand method of subaxial cervical pedicle screw placement
Authors: Liu Bin , Liu Xiangyang , Shen Xiongjie , Wang Guoping , Chen Yixin 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Cervical Pedicle Screw(CPS) placement is a challenging work due to the high risk of neurovascular complications. Although there have been several different free-hand or navigation assisted techniques for CPS placement, perforations may occur during screw insertion, especially lateral perforation. The objective of this manuscript is to describe a novel free-hand technique for subaxial CPS placement (C3–C7) and to evaluate if it decreases the chances of perforation.Methods: Thirty-two patients undergoing surgery with CPS instrumentation (C3–C7) at our institute between June 2017 and December 2018 were included in this study. All the patients had cervical trauma, and pedicle screw insertion was performed according to the free-hand “slide technique”. The lamina, lateral mass and facet joint of the target area were exposed and the optimal entry point was found on the lateral mass posterior surface. A pedicular probe was then inserted and gently advanced. During the pedicle probe insertion, the cortex of the medial margin of the pedicle acted as a slide to permit the safe insertion of the screw. If the pedicle screw pathway was intact, the screw of the appropriate size was carefully placed. Three-dimensional (3D) CT imaging reconstruction was performed in all the patients after surgery, and screw perforations were graded with the Gertzbein-Robbins classification.Results: A total of 257 CPSs (C3-7) were inserted, of which 41 CPSs were in C3, 61 CPSs were in C4, 55 CPSs were in C5, 53 CPSs were in C6, and 47 CPSs were in C7. The diameter and length of CPSs were 3.5 mm and 22-26 mm respectively. According to the Gertzbein-Robbins classification, grade 0, 231 screws; grade 1, 19 screws; and grade 2, 7 screws. No neurovascular complications occurred stemming from malpositioning of pedicle screws. Among perforated screws (26 screws), there were 16 lateral perforations, 5 medical perforations, and 4 inferior perforations.Conclusions: The initial usage result shows the “slide technique” is a safe, effective and cost-effective technique for pedicle screw placement in the cervical spine. This is the first report of such a technique. We recommend its use though further studies are needed.
Melatonin regulates the neurotransmitter secretion disorder induced by caffeine through the gut-brain axis in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Peng Qiannan , Zhang Zeng , Huo Dongxue , Jiang Shuaiming , Ma Chenchen , Chang Haibo , Reiter Russel , Shi Haitao , Zhang Jiachao 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Melatonin has been widely used as a "probiotic agent" capable of producing strong neurotransmitter secretion regulatory effects. The probiotics related researches also provide the evidence of microbial interactions with the gut-brain axis for mental health. In the present study, a zebrafish neural hyperactivity model was established using caffeine induction, and the regulation and mechanism of melatonin and probiotic on zebrafish neurotransmitter secretion disorder were explored. To further address the challenge that if the gut microbes play an essential role in the regulation of neurotransmitter secretion disorder via a process that involves melatonin, the Germ-free (GF) zebrafish model was used to verify the hypothesis. Results: Disorders of brain neurotransmitter secretion caused by caffeine, including that of dopamine (DA), γ-aminobutyric acid (γ-GABA), and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), were improved after interference treatment with melatonin or the probiotic. Metagenomic sequencing demonstrated that the melatonin-treated zebrafish gradually restored their normal intestinal microbial structure, while probiotic supplementation may restructure a new microbiome. Additionally, supplementation with melatonin significantly regulated intestinal microbial functional features, which indicated the gut microbiota plays the key role in the function of melatonin. Based on this activity, a Germ-free zebrafish model was applied to verified our hypothesis in the following validation experiment. Validation experiment results revealed that the effect on the zebrafish in the GF group could not achieve that on the zebrafish in the melatonin group after adding the same dose of melatonin, and subsequent real-time PCR and metabolic pathway analysis confirmed the conclusion. Meanwhile, the content of acetic acid and propionic acid in the gut of not-germ-free zebrafish decreased after caffeine induction and increased significantly after melatonin treatment. However, no acetic or propionic acids were found, detected, changed as there are germ-free zebrafish. Conclusions: In the present research, we identified the potential mechanism of melatonin regulation of neurotransmitter secretion disorder through the gut-brain axis, laying a foundation for exploring the prevention and treatment of some neuropsychiatric disorders by improving the intestinal microbiota.
Chinese Herbal Medicine Combined with Entecavir to Reduce the Off-therapy Recurrence Risk in HBeAg-positive Chronic Hepatitis B Patients: a Multicenter, Double-blind, Randomized Controlled Trial in China
Authors: Li Xiaoke , Zhang Ludan , Ye Yong'an , Du Hongbo , Qiu Mei , Huang Yi , Xiao Huanming , Lu Bingjiu , Jiang Yuyong , Long Fuli , Lin Hui , He Jinyu , Wu Qikai , Zhang Mingxiang , Wang Li , Zhu Xiaoning , Gong Man , Sun Xuehua , Sun Jianguang , Sun Fengxia , Lu Wei , Xu Weihua , Chen Guang , Li Zhiguo , Gan Danan , Yang Xianzhao 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background Nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) are the first-line option against chronic hepatitis B (CHB). NAs produce potent suppression of viral replication with a small chance of HBsAg seroclearance and a high risk of virological relapse after discontinuation. The combined therapy of NAs plus traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely accepted and has been recognized as a prospective alternative approach in China. Based on preliminary works, this study was designed to observe the therapeutic effect of TCM plus entecavir (ETV) against HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B with respect to reducing the recurrence risk after NA withdrawal.Methods/design The study is a nationwide, multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with a duration of 120 weeks. A total of 18 hospitals and 490 eligible Chinese HBeAg-positive CHB patients will be enrolled and randomly allocated into the experimental group and control group in a 1:1 ratio. Patients in the experimental group will be prescribed TCM formulae (Tiaogan-BuXu-Jiedu granules) plus ETV 0.5 mg per day for consolidation therapy for 96 weeks. Patients in the control group will be prescribed TCM granule placebo plus ETV 0.5 mg per day for the same course. After consolidation therapy, all patients will discontinue their trial drugs and be closely monitored over the next 24 weeks. Once clinical recurrence (CR) occurs, ETV treatment will be restarted. The primary outcome is the cumulative rate of CR at the end of this trial.Conclusion This study is the first of its kind to observe therapeutic effects with respect to reducing recurrence after NA withdrawals after unified integrative consolidation therapy in the CHB population.Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry No. ChiCTR1900021232, 2019/02/02, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=35297
Expression of VEGF-C and its association with clinicopathological features among patients with gastric cancer undergoing gastric surgery at Tongji medical hospital, China.
Authors: MAWALLA BRIAN , Luo Xiaoxiao , Xianglin Yuan 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Objectives: Gastric cancer shows epidemiological variability according to geographic locations. These differences have been demonstrated both regionally and within countries. Currently, there is no baseline protocol regarding using VEGF-C as a tumor marker in a local setting, therefore, it was necessary to conduct a study to analyze the correlation between VEGF- C and clinicopathological parameters in patients with gastric cancer undergoing a surgical procedure at Tongji medical hospital.Results: 161 samples were analyzed from Chinese patients who had undergone either palliative or curative surgical procedure between October 2015 and September 2017 at Tongji medical hospital. Immunohistochemistry was used to analyses presence of VEGF-C in tissues. Among the 161 samples from gastric cancer patients, 101 (62.7%) samples showed strong VEGF-C expression and 60 (37.3%) samples showed weak VEGF-C expression. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to show statistical significance with strong expression of VEGF-C for tumor grade, invasion of lymph nodes and TNM staging. Strong expression of VEGF-C was significantly more likely in adenocarcinoma of gastric cancer. VEGF-C may be used as a biological marker for assessing the biological characteristics of gastric cancer.
Mitochondrial tRNA methylation in Alzheimer’s disease and progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Silzer Talisa K. , Pathak Gita A. , Phillips Nicole 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background. Methylation of mitochondrial tRNAs (mt-tRNA) at the 9th position (“p9 site”) is known to impact translational efficiency and downstream mitochondrial function; however, direct assessment of mt-RNA methylation is challenging. Recent RNA sequence-based methods have been developed to reliably identify post-transcriptional methylation. Though p9 methylation has been studied in healthy human populations and in the context of cancer, it has not yet been analyzed in neurodegenerative disease, where mitochondrial dysfunction is a prominent and early hallmark of disease progression. Methods. Mitochondrial p9 methylation was inferred from multi-allelic calls in RNA-seq data. Gene-based association studies were performed in FUMA. Correlations between nuclear gene expression and p9 methylation were tested using Spearman’s rho. Fisher’s Exact test was used in PANTHER and IPA to test for overrepresentation and enrichment of biological processes and pathways in the top nuclear genes correlated with p9 methylation. Results. Variable methylation was observed at 11 p9 sites in post-mortem cerebellar tissue of elderly subjects who were either healthy or diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) or pathological aging (PA). Similarities in degree of methylation were observed between AD and PSP. Certain nuclear encoded genes were identified as significantly associated with p9 methylation. Expression of 5300 nuclear encoded genes was significantly correlated with p9 methylation, with AD and PSP subjects exhibiting similar expression profiles. Overrepresentation and enrichment testing using the top transcripts revealed enrichment for a number of molecular processes, terms and pathways including many of which that were mitochondrial-related. Conclusion. With mitochondrial dysfunction being an established hallmark of neurodegenerative disease pathophysiology, this work sheds light on the potential molecular underpinnings of this dysfunction. Here we show overlap in cerebellar pathophysiology between common tauopathies such as Alzheimer’s disease and progressive supranuclear palsy. Whether p9 hypermethylation is a cause or consequence of pathology remains an area of focus.
Isolation and characterization of bacteriophages against virulent Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Liu Jin , Gao Shanshan , Dong Yuhao , Lu Chengping , Liu Yongjie 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: Aeromonas hydrophila is an important water-borne pathogen that leads to a great economic loss in aquaculture. Along with the abuse of antibiotics, drug-resistant strains rise rapidly. In addition, the biofilms formed by this bacterium limited the antibacterial effect of antibiotics. Bacteriophages have been attracting increasing attention as a potential alternative to antibiotics against bacterial infections. Results: Five phages against pathogenic A. hydrophila, named N21, W3, G65, Y71 and Y81, were isolated. Morphological analysis by transmission electron microscopy revealed that phages N21, W3 and G65 belong to the family Myoviridae, while Y71 and Y81 belong to the Podoviridae. These phages were found to have broad host spectra, short latent periods and normal burst sizes. They were sensitive to high temperature but had a wide adaptability to the pH. In addition, the phages G65 and Y81 showed considerable bacterial killing effect and potential in preventing formation of A. hydrophila biofilm; and the phages G65, W3 and N21 were able to scavenge mature biofilm effectively. Phage treatments applied to the pathogenic A. hydrophila in mice model resulted in a significantly decreased bacterial loads in tissues. Conclusions: Five A. hydrophila phages were isolated with broad host ranges, low latent periods, and wide pH and thermal tolerance. And the phages exhibited varying abilities in controlling A. hydrophila infection. This work presents promising data supporting the future use of phage therapy.
Pathogenic features of urinary Escherichia coli strains causing Asymptomatic Bacteriuria during Pregnancy
Authors: Mohebi Samane , Hashemizade zahra , Hadadi Mahtab , Kholdi Soudeh , Javadi Kasra , Motamedifar Mohammad 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background Asymptomatic bacteriuria is one of the common problems in pregnancy. Pyelonephritis, preterm labor and low birth weight infants have been associated with bacterial infection. Urinary tract infection (UTI) during pregnancy is frequently associated with complications. An observational cross-sectional study including investigated the prevalence of virulence genes, antimicrobial resistance, and its relationship with phylogenetic groups among E. coli strains isolated from pregnant women with asymptomatic bacteriuria who referred to Hafez hospital, Shiraz, Iran. Material and Methods A total of 300 urine samples were screened for Escherichia coli strains. Susceptibility testing was determined by the disk-diffusion method. The phylogenetic groups and 13 virulence genes were identified by PCR. ESBL and AmpC producing isolates were detected using phenotypic methods. PCR was used to identify the bla TEM , bla SHV and bla CTXM genes in ESBL and AmpC-positive isolates. Results Our results revealed that among 300 urine samples, 105 (35%) were positive for E. coli . The data showed that the highest and the lowest resistance rates were observed against nalidixic acid (82.1%), and imipenem (2.8%), respectively. The prevalence of ESBLs and AmpC-β-lactamase, in the E. coli isolates was 41% and 9.5% respectively. bla CTXM was the commonest genotype (93%). Phylogenetic group distribution was as follow: B1 2.8%, A 14.2%, B2 61.9%, and D 4.6%. Our result showed that most of the virulence genes belonged to group B2 and also several virulence genes such as hlyA , cnf-1 , and papGII genes were positively associated with group B2. Conclusion Among E. coli strains isolated from patients with UTIs, different features phylogroups, with special virulence factors, could cause severe infection. Awareness about the Virulence patterns distribution among Phylogenetic groups of UPEC could greatly aid in confine and prevent the development of lethal infection caused by these strains.
In vitro treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes with recombinant Calcium/calmodulin-dependent Protein Kinase IV (CaMKIV) limits ER stress and improves insulin sensitivity through inhibition of autophagy via the mTOR/CREB signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Jiali , Yang Ruihua , Meng Hao , Zhou Ting , He Qian 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background: CaMKIV has been identified as a potential regulator of skeletal muscle glucose metabolism and insulin gene expression in the pancreas. However, the mechanism of CaMKIV involved in adipose insulin resistance is not fully understood. Autophagy has to be shown as a potential therapeutic target for ER (endoplasmic reticulum) stress and insulin resistance. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of CaMKIV on the ER stress, autophagic function and insulin signaling in tunicamycin treated adipocytes. Methods: In this study, we treated mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes with tunicamycin to induce ER stress. Then recombinant CaMKIV and/or targeted-siRNA of CREB and mTOR were transfected into tunicamycin treated 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The ER stress markers, autophagy activation, mTOR/CREB signaling and insulin sensitivity were analyzed by western blotting or electron microscopy. Results: CaMKIV not only reversed tunicamycin-induced expression of p-PERK, cleaved-ATF6, Atg7 and LC3II, as well as the reduction of p62 expression, but also improved expression of p-Akt and p-IRS-1. Moreover, CaMKIV inhibited activated ER stress and elevated insulin sensitivity inAtg7 siRNA transfected adipocytes. However, the protective effects of CaMKIV were nullified by suppression of mTOR or CREB in tunicamycin-induced adipocytes. Conclusion: This study proves recombinant CaMKIV inhibits ER stress and improves insulin signaling by regulation of autophagy. The protective effect of CaMKIV in adipocytes at least partly through mTOR/CREB signaling, which could be regarded as novel opportunities for treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Resurgence risk for malaria, and the characterization of a recent outbreak in an Amazonian border area between French Guiana and Brazil
Authors: MOSNIER Emilie , Dusfour Isabelle , Lacour Guillaume , Saldanha Raphael , Guidez Amandine , Gomes Margarete S. , Sanna Alice , Epelboin Yanouk , Restrepo Johana , Davy Damien , Demar Magalie , Djossou Félix , Douine Maylis , Ardillon Vanessa , Nacher Mathieu , Musset Lise , Roux Emmanuel 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background In 2017, inhabitants along the border between French Guiana and Brazil were affected by a malaria outbreak primarily due to Plasmodium vivax ( Pv ). While malaria cases have steadily declined between 2005-2016 in this Amazonian region, a resurgence was observed in 2017. Methods Two investigations were performed according to two different spatial scales and type of information details. Firstly, a local study on the French Guiana border, which enabled a thorough investigation of the malaria cases treated at the local village health center and of the entomological situation in the most affected neighborhood and secondly a regional and cross-border study, which enabled exploration of the regional spatial-temporal epidemic dynamic. Number and location of malaria cases were estimated using French and Brazilian surveillance systems. Results On the French Guiana side of the border in Saint-Georges de l’Oyapock, the attack rate was 5.5% (n=219/4000), reaching 51.4% (n=90/175) in one Amerindian neighborhood. Entomological findings suggest a peak of Anopheles darlingi density in August and September. Two female An. darlingi (n=2/1104, 0.18%) were found Pv -positive during this peak. During the same period, aggregated data from passive surveillance conducted by Brazilian and French Guianese border health centers identified 1,566 cases of Pv infection. Temporal distribution during the 2007-2018 period displayed seasonal patterns with a peak in November 2017. Four clusters were identified among the epidemic profiles of the localities of the cross-border area. All localities of the first two clusters were Brazilian. The localization of the first cluster suggests an onset of the outbreak in the Amerindian reservation, subsequently expanding to French Amerindian neighborhoods and to non-Native communities. Conclusions The current findings demonstrate a potential increase in malaria cases in an area with otherwise declining numbers. This is a transborder area where human mobility and remote populations challenge malaria control programs. This investigation illustrates the importance of international border surveillance and collaboration for malaria control, particularly in Amerindian villages and mobile populations.
Elevated peripheral blood levels of CXCL10 are associated with the presence of diabetic polyneuropathy in subjects with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ascaso Pilar , Palanca Ana , Martinez-Hervas Sergio , Sanz María Jesús , Ascaso Juan F , Piqueras Laura , Real Jose T 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
WITHDRAWN: Identification of Porcine circovirus type (PCV2) and type 3 (PCV3), Porcine 2 parvovirus (PPV) in swine by multiplex PCR test
Authors: Tran Thoai Kim , Nguyen Trang Thi Thanh , Vu Hiep Lai Xuan , Dinh Phat Xuan 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background : Aiming to simultaneously detect three important viruses known to be involved in reproductive problems of sows, a multiplex PCR (mPCR) test was developed to provide rapid diagnosis of porcine circovirus type 2 and 3 (PCV2, PCV3) and to illustrate parvovirus (PPV) prevalence in sow herds. Methods : Three pairs of specific primers were designed to target PCV2 Cap gene, PCV3 Cap gene and PPV NS1 gene, with predicted mPCR products of 702 bp, 267 bp and 380 bp, respectively. Results : The detection limit of mPCR was 100 copies/ reaction per target gene. Sequencing of mPCR products performed with clinical serum samples accurately confirmed results. The mPCR was run against a panel of 94 swine serum samples whose infection status had been pre-determined by commercial real-time PCR kits. Overall, the mPCR results matched 100% with the real-time PCRs. Conclusions : The developed mPCR test functions successfully and can be used in routine rapid diagnosis of PCV2, PCV3 and PPV.