bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
DNA methylation in Verticillium dahliae requires only one of three putative DNA methyltransferases, yet is dispensable for growth, development and virulence
Authors: Kramer Martin , Cook David , Berg Grardy van den , Seidl Michael , Thomma Bart 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: DNA methylation is an important epigenetic control mechanism that in many fungi is restricted to genomic regions containing transposons. Two DNA methyltransferases, Dim2 and Dnmt5, are known to perform methylation at cytosines in fungi. While most ascomycete fungi encode both Dim2 and Dnmt5, only few functional studies have been performed in species containing both. Methods: In this study, we report functional analysis of both Dim2 and Dnmt5 in the plant pathogenic fungus Verticillium dahliae. Results: Our results show that Dim2, but not Dnmt5 or the putative sexual-cycle related DNA methyltransferase Rid, is responsible for nearly all DNA methylation. Single or double DNA methyltransferase mutants did not show altered development, virulence, or transcription of genes or transposons. In contrast, Hp1 and Dim5 mutants that are impacted in chromatin-associated processes upstream of DNA methylation are severely affected in development and virulence and display extensive transcriptional reprogramming in specific hypervariable genomic regions (so-called lineage-specific (LS) regions) that contain genes associated with host colonization. As these LS regions are largely devoid of DNA methylation and of Hp1- and Dim5-associated heterochromatin, the differential transcription is likely caused by pleiotropic effects rather than by differential DNA methylation. Conclusion: Overall, our study suggests that Dim2 is the main DNA methyltransferase in V. dahliae and, in conjunction with work on other fungi, is likely the main active DNMT in ascomycetes, irrespective of Dnmt5 presence. We speculate that Dnmt5 acts under specific, presently enigmatic, conditions or, alternatively, acts in DNA-associated processes other than DNA methylation.
Development of Chinese chestnut whiskey: yeast strains isolation, fermentation system optimization, and scale-up fermentation
Authors: Shoubao Yan , Qianqian Wu , Jiaquan Guang , CuiE Shi 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
In this study, we used Chinese chestnut as the main raw material to develop a novel type of whiskey. First, 16 yeasts were isolated and identified for producing aroma using olfactory plate assay. Of these, we screened nine yeast strains based on their fermentation capacity, aroma profile, and sensory evaluation. The results demonstrated the combination of strains HN006 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and HN010 (Wickerhamomyces anomalus) provided satisfactory wine fermentation with an interesting flavor profile, as strain HN010 was highly aromatic and had elevated sensory scores with comparatively low ethanol yield, while strain HN006 had a poor flavor profile but produced the largest amount of ethanol. Subsequently, we co-cultured strains HN006 and HN010 to optimize the fermentation system. The results revealed the following optimum parameters: a mixed inoculum of 6% (v/v) at an HN006/HN010 ratio of 1: 2 (v/v), a raw material ratio of 5: 3: 2 (chestnut: malt: glutinous rice), and yeast extract concentration of 6 g/L. Additionally, this fermentation system was successfully scaled-up to a 1000 L pilot-scale system. The results of this study showed that strains HN006 and HN010 could be used as alternatives for whiskey fermentation, as well as provided a generalized experimental scheme to assess other microorganisms.
The Characteristics of Patients with Subsequent Distal Radius Fracture After Initial Distal Radius Fracture
Authors: Lee Jongjin , Kim Jae Kwang , Oh Minyoung , Shin Young Ho 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The characteristics of patients who experienced subsequent distal radius fracture (DRF) after initial DRF have not been determined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of patients with subsequent DRF and to compare bone fragility parameters of patients with primary and subsequent distal DRF. Methods: We compared demographic characteristics and bone fragility parameters, including bone mineral densities (BMDs), trabecular bone score (TBS), hip geometry parameters, and bicortical thickness (BCT) of the distal radius in 215 patients with initial DRF and 26 patients with subsequent DRF. To reduce bias, patients with subsequent DRF were propensity score-matched in a 1:2 manner with patients affected by initial DRF, and additional comparison was performed.Results: Patients in the subsequent DRF group were older than those in the initial DRF group, but this difference was not significant (p = 0.091). The proportion of patients receiving osteoporosis medications was significantly higher in the subsequent DRF group (41.7% vs. 19.2%, p = 0.011). Bone fragility parameters, including BMD, TBS, hip geometry parameters, and BCT did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, ten-year probability of major osteoporotic fractures was significantly higher in patients with subsequent DRF (p < 0.001). Similar results were observed upon comparing the propensity score-matched initial and subsequent DRF groups.Conclusions: These findings suggest that the occurrence of subsequent DRF after initial DRF can be attributed to multiple factors rather than bone fragility alone. Systematic and multidisciplinary managements would be helpful for preventing the occurrence of subsequent DRF after initial DRF.
Metastatic Ovariectomy is Beneficial for Survival in Ovarian Metastasis of Colorectal Carcinoma: A Single-center Experience in China
Authors: Jin Min , Wang Lanqing , Luo Lihua , Zhang Dejun , Zhao Lei , Xu Guojie , Hu Jianli , Zhang Tao 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe benefit of ovarian resection in cases of ovarian metastases from colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is still uncertain. The purpose of this study is to explore the benefits of metastatic ovariectomy plus chemo over chemo alone in the therapy of ovarian metastasis of CRC and to ascertain prognostic factors. MethodsA retrospective analysis of 54 female patients with ovarian metastasis of CRC was performed in a single-center between December 2009 and December 2017 in China. The subjects were divided into two subgroups: metastatic ovariectomy plus chemo subgroup and chemo alone subgroup. The clinicopathological features and overall survival (OS) were analyzed between the two subsets. Univariate and multivariate analysis were further performed to identify the risk factors for OS in these patients.ResultsThe clinicopathological characteristics between the two subsets were similar, including 34 patients (63%) with ovariectomy plus chemo and 20 patients (37%) with chemo alone. In the total of 54 patients, the median survival time was 19.0 months (95% confidence interval, 5.0 to 60.0 months). The median survival time of metastatic tumor resection plus chemo subgroup was 27.9 months (95% confidence interval, 20.8 to 35.0 months), which was significantly better than that of simple chemo subgroup, 16.4 months (95% confidence interval, 11.8 to 21.0 months) (P < 0.01). When stratified analysis of the ovariectomy value in different time phases of ovarian metastasis, it indicated that ovariectomy plus chemo had superior survival benefits than chemo alone in CRC patients with metachronous metastasis (34.8 months vs. 18.4 months; P < 0.05) but not synchronous metastasis (17.2 months vs.13.3months; P =0.29). ConclusionOur results indicate that the removal of ovarian metastases of CRC can improve survival, especially in metachronous metastasis subjects. This study provides a support for ovariectomy of ovarian metastasis from CRC in clinical treatment for oncologist.Running tittleTreatment Strategy and Prognostic Analysis of Ovarian Metastasis of Colorectal Carcinoma
Phoenixin 20 Prevents ox-LDL-Induced Attachment of Monocytes to Human Aortic Endothelial cells (HAECs): A Protective Implication in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Lin Hua-Song , Wei Xiao-Lan , Zheng Bi-Rong , Lin Ruo-Ting , Huang Ya-li , Li Mi-Mi , Chen Ya-Fang , Zhang Jin-Ying , Li Wei-wei , Ye Lichao 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The cause of atherosclerosis is not known, and therefore the current treatment options are limited. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of Phoenixin 20 and its receptor G protein-coupled receptor 173 (GPR173) against ox-LDL- induced endothelial dysfunction. Materials and Methods: Human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were treated with 10 μg/ml ox-LDL in the presence or absence of phoenixin 20. Gene expression of GPR173, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, IL-1β, IL-8, MCP-1, and NOX-4 were measured by real time PCR. Protein expression was assayed by western blot analysis. Secretions of pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA. The attachment of THP-1 monocytes to HAECs was detected using calcein-AM staining. Transcriptional activity of NF-κB was measured using dual-luciferase reporter assay. Results: Our findings indicate that ox-LDL significantly lowered the expression of GPR173 in HAECs and triggered an increase in ROS, NOX-4, and proinflammatory cytokine expression. Importantly, we demonstrate that agonism of GPR173 using phoenixin 20 significantly ameliorated these harmful effects of ox-LDL. We also show that agonism of GPR173 can prevent the attachment of monocytes to endothelial cells, which is an important therapeutic approach to prevent atherogenesis. Conclusion: Here, for the first time to our knowledge, we provide a basis for future research on the role of GPR173 as a new potential treatment against atherosclerosis.
Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among perioperative nurses: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Clari Marco , Godono Alessandro , Garzaro Giacomo , Voglino Gianluca , Gualano Maria Rosaria , Migliaretti Giuseppe , Gullino Attilia , Ciocan Catalina , Dimonte Valerio 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background
To evaluate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) in perioperative nurses and to explore their association with personal characteristics.
Methods
Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Joanna Briggs Institute Database were systematically searched. A meta-analysis calculating event rates, and relative 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) was performed for each musculoskeletal district. The contribution of perioperative nurses’ gender, age, and BMI was assessed trough a meta-regression.
Results
Twenty-two studies, considering 3405 perioperative nurses, were included in the systematic review. The highest prevalence of WRMSDs was found for the lower-back (61%; 95% CI 0.52–0.70), followed by shoulder (45%; 95% CI 0.38–0.53), waist (45%; 95% CI 0.34–0.57), knee (45%; 95% CI 0.32–0.54), neck (39%; 95% CI 0.27–0.52), upper-back (34%; 95% CI 0.24–0.46), ankle-feet (33%; 95% CI 0.18–0.51), hand-wrist (29%; 95% CI 0.19–0.41), and elbow (18%; 95% CI 0.11–0.27). Meta-regression showed that gender, age, and BMI were not significant predictors of low-back disorders (p = 0.69; R2 = 0).
Conclusions
WRMSDs represent a high prevalence issue among perioperative nurses. Perioperative nurses, in general, are steadily exposed to both physical and temporal risk factors. Several interventions may be adopted to reduce the burden of WRMSDs, including ergonomic education and physical rehabilitation. Our data could be used in future studies as a reference to assess the risk of WRMSDs in other health-care professionals’ population.
Structure, Morphological, and Physicochemical Characteristics of a New Composite Coagulant Made From Polyaluminium Chloride and Agro-waste of Tapioca Peel
Authors: SNA Mohd-Salleh , MZN Shaylinda , N Othman , G Yashni , AB Norshila , MS Sainudin 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
A combination of a metal coagulant with an organic polymer can complement both the outstanding and flaw properties of the separate elements. A novel composite coagulant of polyaluminium chloride (PAC)-tapioca peel extract powder (TPP) called PACTPP with different weights ratio was prepared in this study. In the preliminary study, PACTPPg at the weight/weight ratio of TPP/Al=3.71 was selected as the optimum one based on the performance in treating wastewater sample of landfill leachate. Through all characterisation analyses, it revealed that the novel composite reagent exhibits better coagulant properties when compared with the individual coagulants of PAC and TPP. It was characterised that PACTPPg had combined the best benefits from PAC and TPP, with an acidic property of pH 3.45, the low charge density of 3.45 mV, the higher molecular weight of 1.59 × 107 g/mol, the bigger particle size of 4.528 × 104 d.mn, and a longer connected and compact structure. Through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses, PACTPPg was identified to comprise new chemical compounds, i.e., the functional groups of ketones, aldehydes, and alkanes in a semi-formed crystalline phase. Based on the comparison study, it can be concluded that PACTPPg showed a correlation to encompass the complex interpenetration networks rather than just a simple mechanical mixing of raw materials.
Chemokine Receptor 7 (CCR7) Participates in the Migration of DCs&nbsp;and Has Impact on the Progression of Primary Pterygium
Authors: Wang Ting , Wang Tao , Ni Huanqi , Zhong Lei , Cheng Huanhuan , Bao Tiancheng , Jia Xiuhua , Xia Jun , Liu Xinyu , Lin Haotian , Ling Shiqi 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The effect of chemokine receptors and their ligands for dendritic cells (DCs) plays a critical role in the immune response, but whether chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) has an impact on DCs migrating in pterygia remains unclear. The aim of this article is to investigate the involvement of CCR7 signaling in pathogenesis of primary pterygium.Methods: Slip lamp photographs of 85 pterygia patients were used to divide the pterygia into three groups, the width, extension, and area of pterygia were measured by computer software, the blood vessels of pterygium and general eye redness were quantitatively analyzed by a specific algorithm. Expression of CCR7 and its ligands C-C motif ligand 19 (CCL19) and C-C motif ligand 21 (CCL21) in normal conjunctivae and excised pterygia collected in surgery were analyzed by qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence staining. The phenotype of CCR7-expressing cells was identified by double-staining with major histocompatibility complex II (MHC II), CD11b and CD11c.Results: The level of CCR7 was significantly increased with 9.6-fold in pterygium when compared with normal conjunctivae (p=0.008). The higher expression of CCR7, the more blood vessels in pterygium ((R2=0.44, p<0.001) and more general ocular redness ((R2=0.25, p<0.001) pterygium patients had. CCR7 positive cells were co-located with D11b+, CD11c+ or MHC II in mature DCs. Immunofluorescence staining showed CCL21 co-staining with CCR7, which implied CCL21 may be a key ligand of CCR7 in pterygia, rather than CCL19. And CCR7 was significantly associated with the extension of pterygia (R2=0.083, p=0.047, β=0.192).Conclusions: Our research revealed a possible involvement of CCR7 in the migration of mature DCs and influence the progression of primary pterygia. Targeting CCR7 may be considered as a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of pterygium.
Changes in Soil Chemical Properties Under Different Land-Use Systems and Soil Depth Layers: A Case Study from the Central Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Bato Yadesa , Bekele Tamrat , Demissew Sebsebe 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Soil chemical properties have changed under different land-use systems and soil depth layers either by increasing or decreasing. Hence, scientifically information on the soil chemical properties dynamics under different land-use systems and soil depths are crucial for best land management practices, and to avoiding ecological negative impacts of it for sustainable development. The study aimed to evaluate the soil chemical properties dynamics under different land-use systems and soil depths in the central highlands of Ethiopia. The land-use systems included natural forest, four exotic tree plantation species (Eucalyptus globules, Cupressus lusitanica, Grevillea robusta, and Pinus patula), grassland, grazing land, and cropland. Results: The analysis of variance (ANOVA) for the majority of soil chemical properties of OC, TN, Avial. P, soil pH, EC, CEC, and exchangeable bases (Ca, Mg, K, Na) were showed that significant variations among land-use systems (P<0.0001). The highest mean values of OC (3.49 % DM ), TN ( 0.31 % DM) , Avail.P (31.52 mg/kg of soil ), CEC ( 33.63 meq/100gm soil), Exch. Ca (17.13 cmol(+)/kg soil), Exch. Mg (5.37 cmol(+)/kg soil), and Exch. K ( 3.60 cmol(+)/kg soil) were observed under natural forest than others of land-use systems. The results also showed that the lowest mean values of OC (1.47 % DM), TN (0.13 %DM), soil pH (5.38), CEC (18.98 meq/100gm soil), Exch. Ca (9.93 cmol(+)/kg soil), Exch. K (1.20 cmol(+)/kg soil), and Exch. Na (0.22 cmol(+)/kg soil) were recorded under cropland than other land-use systems. The highest mean values of EC (3.47ds/m), and Exch. Na (0.60 cmol(+)/kg soil) were observed under Eucalyptus globulus plantation forest. The overall mean values of OC, TN, Avail.P, CEC, Exch. Mg, Exch. Ca, Exch. K, and Exch. Na accumulation at the topsoil layer was higher than that of the subsoil layer except for soil pH and EC. Conclusion: In general, the majority of soil chemical properties under cropland and Eucalyptus globulus plantation forest were poorer than the soils subjected to other land-use systems which indicated that changes in land use systems were significantly affected soil chemical properties.
WITHDRAWN: Discovery of mcr-1 Harboring Incl2 Plasmids from Clinical Isolates of Multiclonal E. Coli prevalent in Pakistan.
Authors: Bilal Hazrat , Rehman Tayyab ur , Khan Muhammad Asif , Hameed Fareeha , Jian Zhang gao , Han Jianxiong , Yang Xingyuan 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Colistin is the last resort antibiotic against multiple drug-resistant (MDR) bacteria found in clinical infections; however, the emergence of plasmid-mediated mcr-1 gene annulled the efficacy of Colistin. This study was planned to determine the prevalence of mcr genes in clinical isolates collected in Pakistan. The molecular types and plasmids of mcr-1 bearing isolates were analysed. Methods: A total of 545 E. coli isolates collected from two major cities of Pakistan were screened for colistin-resistance and mcr genes from June 2018 to September 2019. All positive strains were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing, ESBL, and MBL detection via DDST and CDT. ESBL genes detection, molecular typing, conjugation experiment, plasmid replicon typing, S1 PFGE, and southern hybridization were performed. Results: Four (0.73%) strains of mcr-1 positive isolates were susceptible to meropenem, fosfomycin, and chloramphenicol, including one that showed moderate level resistance to chloramphenicol and fosfomycin. All four strains were ESBL positive and harbored the blaCTX-M-15 gene, while three of the isolates also harbored the blaTEM-1 gene. Molecular typing revealed that four isolates belonged to diverse clonal types, mostly (75%) from avian pathogenic E. coli lineage. The mcr-1 gene was present on ~ 60 kb Incl2 plasmid, which was successfully transconjugated. Conclusion: The mcr-1 gene's detection in diverse clonal types from MDR clinical isolates enforces priority basis large scale surveillance studies followed by corrective actions to prevent the spread of the mcr-1 gene in clinical, poultry, and environmental setting.
Near-complete Loss of Fire-resistant Primary Tropical Forest Cover in Sumatra and Kalimantan
Authors: Nikonovas Tadas , Spessa Allan , Doerr Stefan , Clay Gareth , Mezbahuddin Symon 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Deforestation in Sumatra and Kalimantan in recent decades has made increasingly large parts of the region vulnerable to fires. Burning is particularly widespread in deforested peatlands, leading to globally significant carbon emissions. Here we assess primary forest cover loss and fragmentation combined with active fire observations between 2001 and 2019 for the entire region. We find that fires did not penetrate undisturbed primary forest areas deeper than two kilometres from the forest edge irrespective of drought conditions, highlighting the resistance of such forests to burning. However, only 10% of primary forest on peatland and 13% on non-peatlands remain in this category, with the rest being severely fragmented or degraded due to proximity to the forest edge. Fire-resistant forests now cover only 3% of peatlands and 4.5% of non-peatlands in Sumatra and Kalimantan. We also show that 15% and 17% of burning during the 2015 and 2019 fire episodes respectively occurred on land cleared since 2001. Our work demonstrates that protection and regeneration of the remaining contiguous primary forest blocks, as well as peatland restoration, are an urgent necessity for mitigating the impacts of potentially more frequent fire events under future global warming in Indonesia.
Unpacking The Autism Spectrum Disorder Profile of Children With De Novo Disruptive GRIN2B Variants: A Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Hudac Caitlin M. , Kurtz-Nelson Evangeline , Rutter Tara M. , Peterson Jessica L. , Hoekzema Kendra , Beighley Jennifer , Kelly Morgan E. , Wallace Arianne S. , Gerdts Jennifer , Eichler Evan E. , Bernier Raphael A. , Earl Rachel K. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Disruptive mutations to GRIN2B are considered a high-confidence genetic factor of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet only ~25% of patients with GRIN2B mutations are given a formal ASD diagnosis. Here, we generate a comprehensive understanding of the ASD profile in children with de novo disruptive GRIN2B variants, including social communication deficits and restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs).Methods: The ASD profile was measured in 34 children with disruptive GRIN2B variants, including clinically assessed ASD severity (subset of 16 children) and parental reports of ASD symptomology. GRIN2B ASD profiles were compared to 96 children with a different pathogenic ASD-associated mutation, as well as 55 children with ASD stratified based upon low (n = 14) or average (n = 41) nonverbal cognition. Following statistical group comparisons, unique GRIN2B ASD features were further characterized using qualitative analysis of clinical observations and case reports. Results: Both GRIN2B and pathogenic groups exhibited similar proportions of formal ASD diagnoses and clinically assessed ASD severity was similar across comparison groups. Parents endorsed fewer problematic social behaviors and impairing RRBs in certain categories, highlighting relative strengths in socioemotional reciprocity and fewer reported problems with rigidity or restricted interests. Contextualization of behaviors based upon clinical observations indicated a unique GRIN2B profile describing high motivation to approach others, but often inappropriate social responses. Atypical nonverbal communication and sensory seeking were evident. Limitations: This study is limited by the small sample size for the clinically assessed GRIN2B subset. Second, the ASD comparison group was older than the GRIN2B or Pathogenic groups. Lastly, we focus on ASD symptomology and do not fully characterize other psychiatric, behavioral, or medical comorbidities or link the ASD profile to the specific function of GRIN2B variants (e.g., loss or gain of function), which may be a critical next step for developing targeted interventions.Conclusions: We identify a unique ASD profile for children with disruptive GRIN2B variants involving strengths in social motivation/approach and reduced impairing RRBs. Continued work phenotyping GRIN2B should incorporate nuanced examination of these strengths in the context of the challenges faced by individuals with disruptive GRIN2B variants.