bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Response of Intertidal Foraminiferal Assemblages to Salinity Changes in a Laboratory Culture Experiment
Authors: Li Meng , Lei Yanli , Li Tiegang , Dong Shuaishuai 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
This study explored the response to salinity of intertidal foraminiferal assemblages from the Yellow Sea by culturing them for 100 days at six constant salinity levels (17, 22, 27, 32, 37, and 42 psu) in laboratory microcosms with four replicates each. A total of 7,471 live (stained) foraminiferal specimens were obtained and analyzed. The diversity parameters of foraminiferal assemblages (species richness, Margalef index, Shannon-Wiener index, and Fisher's alpha) declined significantly when the salinity was increased or decreased from the field value, but foraminiferal abundance was highly resistant to salinity. In addition, salinity exerted different effects on foraminifera from different orders. Specifically, the proportion of species from Order Miliolida significantly increased whereas that of species from Order Rotaliida decreased with increasing salinity. High salinity-tolerant species Ammonia aomoriensis, Cribrononion gnythosuturatum, Ammonia tepida, and Quinqueloculina seminula could fill unoccupied ecological niches when the proportion of salinity-sensitive species has declined. Furthermore, our morphometric results showed that foraminiferal test size was significantly negatively correlated with salinity, and numerous abnormal specimens appeared in foraminiferal assemblages when salinity deviated from the field value. Our study revealed that intertidal foraminiferal assemblages had high adaptability at different salinities because of the existence of high salinity-tolerant dominant species. In addition, salinity variation can significantly alter foraminiferal morphology in test size and abnormality.
Distribution of Foraminifera off the Terengganu River Mouth, East Coast Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Culver Stephen J. , Twarog Michael , Mallinson David J. , Shazili Noor Azhar Mohd , Bidai Joseph 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
The distributions of modern foraminiferal species represent an important tool for petroleum geologists to characterize paleoenvironments. This paper documents the distribution of benthic foraminifera on the inner shelf (&lt;40 m water depth) immediately offshore of the Terengganu River mouth, one of the three major drainages on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. Sediment substrate type primarily controls the distribution of species; temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and pH vary little in the study area and have little influence. Sandy substrates (mostly coarse and very coarse sand) from 20 to 40 m water depth are characterized by abundant specimens of the larger foraminifera Amphistegina spp. Muddy substrates immediately adjacent to the Terengganu River mouth from 12 to 20 m water depth are characterized by higher diversity assemblages dominated by several smaller calcareous taxa and the agglutinated species Ammobaculites exiguus. The latter species has been documented in muddy sediments at other river mouths on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. Strong, seasonally reversing monsoon-driven currents affect sediment transport along the east coast of peninsular Malaysia and therefore indirectly influence the distributions of foraminiferal species. The results of this study add to the increasingly extensive database on modern foraminiferal distributions that provides a model for paleoenvironmental interpretations of hydrocarbon-bearing Neogene strata off the east coast of Thailand and peninsular Malaysia.
Targeting EZH2-mediated methylation of histone 3 inhibits proliferation of pediatric acute monocytic leukemia cells in vitro
Authors: Ghabkari Abdulhameed , Narendran Aru 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone methyltransferase and a catalytic subunit of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) that catalyzes the mono-, di-, and tri-methylation of histone H3 at Lys 27 (H3K27me3) to facilitate chromatin remodeling and gene silencing functions. The overexpression of EZH2 is associated with high levels of H3K27me3 in various types of cancers. Previous reports showed a significant association of EZH2 aberrations in pediatric cancers such as soft tissue sarcomas and glioblastoma. Recent reports in human subjects and animal models have also suggested a central role of EZH2 in the induction and progression of acute myeloid leukemia. Methods: In this study, we aimed to investigate the molecular status of EZH in cell lines derived from distinct pediatric leukemia to assess the efficacy of targeting EZH2 to suppress cancer cell survival and proliferation. Cell cytotoxicity and the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) were measured by Alamar blue cytotoxicity assay. The molecular status of EZH2 was profiled by DNA sequencing and western blot analysis of EZH2 protein levels in THP-1, SEM, and MV4:11. In addition, Methylation of histone H3 was evaluated by immunoblotting and immunostaining analyses. Results: Our results showed that EZH2 protein is overexpressed in the pediatric monocytic cell line THP-1 , but not in other leukemia derived cell lines MV4;11 and SEM. Screening a panel of methyltransferase inhibitors revealed that three inhibitors; GSK126, UNC1999 and EPZ-5687 are the most potent inhibitors that suppressed EZH2 activity selectively on lysine 27 which resulted in increased apoptosis and inhibition of AKT and ERK protein phosphorylation in THP-1 cells. Our data demonstrated a significant increase in apoptosis in cells treated with drug combination (EZH2i and selinexor) compared to EZH2i inhibitors alone. Conclusions: Taken together, our data provide initial evidence that targeting EZH2 is a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of subtypes of pediatric AML. Also, combining EZH2 inhibitors with selinexor may increase the treatment efficacy in these patients. Findings from this study indicate further evaluation and consideration of these compounds for early phase clinical studies in selected pediatric malignancies in the future.
Volcanic Activity Sparks Arctic&nbsp;Oscillation
Authors: Qu Weizheng , Huang Fei , Zhao Jinping , Du Ling , Cao Yong 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
The parasol effect of volcanic dust and aerosol caused by volcanic eruption results in the deepening and strengthening of the Arctic vortex system, thus stimulating or strengthening the Arctic Oscillation (AO). Three of the strongest AOs in more than a century have been linked to volcanic eruptions. Every significant fluctuation of the AO index (AOI) for many years has been associated with a volcanic eruption. Volcanic activity occurring at different locations in the Arctic vortex circulation will exert different effects on the polar vortex. Strong volcanic activity above level 5 erupting outside the Arctic vortex circulation can have a certain degree of influence on the Arctic oscillation and only cause small AOI fluctuations.
The Competition between DNA Methylation and Demethylation is Associated with Transcription Regulation and Tumorigenesis
Authors: Li Wei , Shi Jiejun , Xu Jianfeng , Chen Yiling , Li Jingyi Jessica , Shen Lanlan 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
The mammalian DNA methylome is formed by two antagonizing processes, methylation by DNA methyltransferases (DNMT) and demethylation by ten-eleven translocation (TET) dioxygenases. Although the dynamics of either methylation or demethylation have been intensively studied in the past decade, their competition effect remains elusive. Here, we quantify the competition between DNA methylation and demethylation by the percentage of unmethylated CpGs within a partially methylated read from bisulfite sequencing. After verifying methylation competition by its strong association with the co-localization of DNMT and TET enzymes, we observe that methylation competition is strongly correlated with gene expression. In particular, during tumorigenesis, the elevation of methylation competition is associated with the repression of 40 ~ 60% of tumor suppressor genes, which cannot be explained by promoter hypermethylation alone. Furthermore, methylation competition can be used to stratify large undermethylated regions with negligible differences in average methylation into two subgroups with distinct chromatin accessibility and gene regulation patterns. Together, methylation competition represents a novel methylation metric important for transcription regulation and tumorigenesis and is largely distinct from conventional metrics, such as average methylation and methylation variation.
Dynamic super-enhancer core regulatory circuits and epigenetic landscapes drive malignant progression and refractory disease in multiple myeloma
Authors: Silva Ariosto Siqueira , Canevarolo Rafael , Meads Mark , Silva Maria , Sudalagunta Praneeth , Avila Gabriel De , Alugubelli Raghunandan , Tungesvik Alexandre , Bell Elissa , Burger Karen , Kulkarni Amit , Hampton Oliver , Jiang Zhijie , Dai Hongyue , Cubitt Christopher , Teer Jamie , Welsh Eric , Yoder Sean , Shah Bijal , Tao Jianguo , Hazlehurst Lori , Gatenby Robert , Sullivan Daniel , Alsina Melissa , Nishihori Taiga , Brayer Jason , Cleveland John L. , William Dalton , Gillies Robert , Baz Rachid , Shain Kenneth 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
The plasma cell malignancy multiple myeloma (MM) evolves from a pre-malignant state and remains all but incurable due to emergence of therapy resistance. Despite intensive analyses, mechanisms driving MM progression and refractory disease are poorly understood. Integrating topologic, expression and epigenetic analyses of 1,016 patient specimens, we report super-enhancer core regulatory circuits (SECRCs) that drive and sustain MM epigenetic states. Reprogramming of cell identity and tumor microenvironment genes drive malignant conversion, while alterations in cell cycle and metabolic control genes cause refractory disease. Thus, select epigenetic states drive progression and therapy resistance, providing strategies to prevent and effectively treat MM.
Scientific Validation of Three-Dimensional Stereophotogrammetry Compared to the IGAIS Clinical Scale for Assessing Wrinkles and Scars after Laser Treatment
Authors: Machado Barbara , SIlva Ivy Melo e , Pautrat Walter , Frame James , Najlah Mohammad 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Measuring outcomes from treatments to the skin is either reliant upon patient’s subjective feedback or scale-based peer assessments. Three-Dimensional stereophotogrammetry intend to accurately quantify skin microtopography before and after treatments. Objective: To compare the accuracy of stereophotogrammetry and a scale-based peer evaluation in assessing topographical changes to skin surface following laser treatment. Methods: A 3D stereophotogrammetry system photographed skin surface of 48 patients with facial wrinkles or scars before and three months after laser resurfacing, followed immediately by topical application of vitamin C. The software measured changes in skin roughness, wrinkle depth and scar volume. Images were presented to three observers, each independently scoring cutaneous improvement according to Investigator Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (IGAIS) Scale. Results: A trend reflecting skin/scar improvement was reported by 3D-SPM measurements and raters. The percentage of topographical change given by the raters matched 3D SPM findings. Agreement was highest when observers analyzed 3D images. However, observers overestimated skin improvement in a nontreatment control whilst 3D-SPM was precise in detecting absence of intervention. Conclusion: This study confirmed a direct correlation between the IGAIS clinical scale and 3D-SPM and confirmed the efficacy and accuracy of the latter when assessing cutaneous microtopography alterations as a response to laser treatment.
Investigate Knowledge Management Technology Implementation for Supporting Decision Making in Ethiopian Health Sectors
Authors: Zeru Mniyichel , Desta Amare , Smithson Steve , Meshesha Million 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Introduction: Knowledge management technology is a key tool for facilitating and improving the quality of health care delivery in hospitals. However, the use and implementation of this technology is not an easy task. The aim of this study is to investigate a knowledge management technology implementation in Ethiopian hospitals, with a particular reference to Jimma University Specialized Hospital. Methodology: Information about challenges of knowledge management technology implementation was gathered using qualitative research methods, through conducting semi-structured interviews. Purposive sampling method was applied to select fifty-four participants from a well-defined population. Findings were first validated, according to published literature and research works, and then sorted into three main areas with recommended solutions, such as current usage of KM technology to enhance and improve decision-making, factors affecting implementation of KM technology Results: This study revealed that overall level of KM technology implementation in Ethiopia hospitals is still low. Conclusion: Implementation and use of KM technology with a view to improving the quality of hospital health services is needed. Thus, it suggested that hospital managers should make much more effort to develop a strategy and policy on the implementation and use of KM technology so that the hospital could improve the quality of healthcare services.
Laparoendoscopic Two-Site Myomectomy (LETS-M) Using Conventional Laparoscopic Instruments and The Glove-Port Technique
Authors: Wu Pei-Chi , Sheu Bor-Ching , Huang Kuan-Ju , Huang Su-Cheng , Chang Wen-Chun 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
We aim to evaluate the surgical outcome of laparoendoscopic two-site myomectomy (LETS-M). The medical records of 204 women receiving LETS-M in a tertiary referral center, including 183 surgeries performed by the experienced surgeon and 21 surgeries performed by 3 well-supervised trainees were retrospectively reviewed. The age of the participants was 39.3±6.4 years. The mean diameter of the largest myoma was 8.5±2.2 cm. The mean weight of the myomas was 281.1±183.1 g. The operation time was 97.6±40.2 min, and the intraoperative blood loss was 99.3±115.2 mL. There were 3 (1%) cases of excessive blood loss (more than 500 mL) and 2 (1%) of postoperative hematoma. The only significant difference between the experienced surgeon and trainees was the operation time (92.3±32.2 min vs. 141.2±54 min, p<.001), while the myoma number, myoma diameter, myoma weight, and intraoperative blood loss were not significantly different. The operation time did not differ among different myoma locations. In multivariate analysis, virginity, myoma number, more than 2 large myomas, and myoma size were independent variables for longer operation times. No patient experienced any major complications. The result revealed that LETS-M is a minimally invasive surgical method that is safe, effective, and easy to learn for managing uterine myoma.
Impact of Clinical Pharmacist Interventions on Potentially Inappropriate Medications in Elderly Primary Care Patients With Mental Disorders Using Polypharmacy: A Cohort Retrospective Study
Authors: Štuhec Matej , Nemec Alja 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) are highly prevalent in elderly patients with mental disorders (MPHs) treated with polypharmacy. This study's main aim was to determine the impact of a clinical pharmacist (CP)’s recommendations on the total number of PIMs and to evaluate the differences in PIMs between two patient subgroups with mental disorders with either fully or partially accepted recommendations that have not been studied until now.A retrospective observational cohort study involving primary care patients aged 65 or above in 2015–2017 was conducted. To evaluate the impact of the interventions on the number of PIMs, odds ratios (ORs) were used. Ninety-nine patients were included (79.4 y, SD=7.92). At least one PIM was present in 69.7% or 92.9% of the patients (PRISCUS and Beers list). The interventions led to a 21.2% decrease (n=23; PRISCUS) and a 17.3% decrease (n=38; Beers) (p<0.05). The ORs for PIMs were significantly smaller in the full-acceptance subgroup (OR=3.8, CI 1.4-10.1; Beers) and insignificantly smaller for another group (OR=2.8, CI 1.0-8.2; PRISCUS). The CP's interventions decreased the number of PIMs according to the PRISCUS and the Beers list, and ORs for PIMs decreased if all proposed interventions were accepted.
Comprehensive Profiling of Urinary Peptides in Cow Reveals Physiology Specific Signatures and Several Bioactive Properties
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Ali Syed , Singh Sumit , Bhushan Vanya , Kaushik Jai , Mohanty Ashok , Kumar Sudarshan 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Peptidomics allows the identification of thousands of peptides that are derived from proteins. Urinary peptidomics has revolutionized the field of diagnostics as the sample represents complete systemic changes of the body and is collected non-invasively. We profiled the peptides in urine collected from different physiological states of Sahiwal cows namely heifer, pregnancy, and lactation. Endogenous peptides were extracted from 30 individual cows belonging to three groups, each group comprising of ten animals (biological replicates n = 10). Nano Liquid chromatography Mass spectrometry (nLC-MS/MS) experiments revealed 5239, 4774, and 5466 peptides in the heifer, pregnant, and lactating animals, respectively. The diversity in endogenous peptides in urine sets baseline information substantiating various bioactivities (anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, and anticancerous) associated with cow urine. Several proteases have been traced back in the body which was found responsible for the physiology specific peptide signature of urine. The in silico study also highlights the enrichment of progenitor proteins on the specific chromosome and their relative expression in context to specific physiology. The urinary peptides, precursor proteins, and proteases identified in the study thus set a solid foundation for future research in biomarker discovery and a better understanding of the pathophysiology of the body.
In Silico Prediction and Prioritisation of Novel Selective Antimicrobial Drug Targets in Escherichia Coli
Authors: Frisinger Frida Svanberg , Jana Bimal , Donadio Stefano , Guardabassi Luca 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Treatment of infections caused by Escherichia coli and other Enterobacteriaceae often requires broad-spectrum antimicrobials, which cause perturbations of the gut microbiota (dysbiosis). Novel antimicrobial drugs interfering with pathogen-specific targets would minimize the risk of such dysbiosis. Here, we employed an in silico approach to identify essential proteins in E. coli, including pathogenic ST131, that are either absent or have low homology to humans and beneficial taxa of the gut microbiota. We identified 37 potential new targets with little or no homology to the proteomes seven taxa representative of the healthy gut microbiota. The suitability of these proteins as drug targets was further analysed through essentiality and conservation in the closely related pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae. None of them are targets of commercially used antibiotics. Eighteen proteins are involved in four functionally connected essential biological processes (replication, chromosome segregation, cell division, and outer membrane biogenesis). Our results indicate that it may be possible to selectively interfere with essential biological processes in Enterobacteriaceae that are absent or mediated by unrelated proteins in beneficial bacterial taxa residing in the gut. The identified targets can be used to discover antimicrobial drugs that are effective against these opportunistic pathogens with a decreased potential of causing dysbiosis.
Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections among cervical cancer suspected women at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North-west Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Milkias , Eshetie Setegn , Tessema Belay 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), and Syphilis have continued a significant public health problem, especially in areas with substandard infection prevention and control programs. It is known that STIs are largely associated with the increased occurrence of cervical cancer. To date, little is known about the burden of STIs among cervical cancer suspected women in Ethiopia. Objectives: To assess the seroprevalence of STIs and associated risk factors among cervical cancer suspected women with special emphasis on HIV, HBV, HCV, and Syphilis. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among cervical cancer suspected women at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from February to April 2017. A pre-tested and structured questionnaire was used to collect data on patients’ characteristics. The patient’s serum or plasma samples were tested for HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In all aspects, the standard operational procedure was strictly followed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 software and presented using tables. Statistical associations were measured using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression. A p-value of below 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: A total of 403 cervical cancer suspected women with the mean age of 42.54 (SD+11. 24) years were enrolled in the study. The overall prevalence of STIs was 16.6% (67/403) and the prevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis was 36/403 (8.9 %), 10/403 (2.5 %), 4/403 (1 %), and 29/403 (7.2 %) respectively. History of multiple sexual partners (Adjusted OR=3.02, 95%CI 1.57-5.79, P=0.001), alcohol addiction (Adjusted OR=2.2, 95%CI 1.07-4.5, P=0.031), history of STI (Adjusted OR= 3.38; 95% CI: 1.76-6.47, P= 0.00) and not use of condom (Adjusted OR= 4.99; 95% CI: 1.5-16.16, P= 0.007) were significantly associated with STIs. Conclusion: The prevalence of STIs was generally higher among cervical cancer suspected patients. Health education is encouraged to promote awareness about the prevention of STIs.