bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genetic regulation of gene expression and splicing during a 10-year period of human aging
Authors: Balliu Brunilda , Durrant Matthew , Goede Olivia de , Abell Nathan , Li Xin , Liu Boxiang , Gloudemans Michael J. , Cook Naomi L. , Smith Kevin S. , Knowles David A. , Pala Mauro , Cucca Francesco , Schlessinger David , Jaiswal Siddhartha , Sabatti Chiara , Lind Lars , Ingelsson Erik , Montgomery Stephen B. 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Molecular and cellular changes are intrinsic to aging and age-related diseases. Prior cross-sectional studies have investigated the combined effects of age and genetics on gene expression and alternative splicing; however, there has been no long-term, longitudinal characterization of these molecular changes, especially in older age.

Results
We perform RNA sequencing in whole blood from the same individuals at ages 70 and 80 to quantify how gene expression, alternative splicing, and their genetic regulation are altered during this 10-year period of advanced aging at a population and individual level. We observe that individuals are more similar to their own expression profiles later in life than profiles of other individuals their own age. We identify 1291 and 294 genes differentially expressed and alternatively spliced with age, as well as 529 genes with outlying individual trajectories. Further, we observe a strong correlation of genetic effects on expression and splicing between the two ages, with a small subset of tested genes showing a reduction in genetic associations with expression and splicing in older age.

Conclusions
These findings demonstrate that, although the transcriptome and its genetic regulation is mostly stable late in life, a small subset of genes is dynamic and is characterized by a reduction in genetic regulation, most likely due to increasing environmental variance with age.
High frequency of horizontal transfer in Jockey families (LINE order) of drosophilids
Authors: Tambones Izabella L. , Haudry Annabelle , Simão Maryanna C. , Carareto Claudia M. A. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe use of large-scale genomic analyses has resulted in an improvement of transposable element sampling and a significant increase in the number of reported HTT (horizontal transfer of transposable elements) events by expanding the sampling of transposable element sequences in general and of specific families of these elements in particular, which were previously poorly sampled. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of HTT events in a group of elements that, until recently, were uncommon among the HTT records inDrosophila– the Jockey elements, members of the LINE (long interspersed nuclear element) order of non-LTR (long terminal repeat) retrotransposons. The sequences of 111 Jockey families deposited in Repbase that met the criteria of the analysis were used to identify Jockey sequences in 48 genomes of Drosophilidae (genusDrosophila, subgenusSophophora: melanogaster, obscura and willistoni groups; subgenusDrosophila: immigrans, melanica, repleta, robusta, virilis and grimshawi groups; subgenusDorsilopha: busckii group; genus/subgenusZaprionusand genusScaptodrosophila).ResultsPhylogenetic analyses revealed 72 Jockey families in 41 genomes. Combined analyses revealed 15 potential HTT events between species belonging to different genera and species groups of Drosophilidae, providing evidence for the flow of genetic material favoured by the spatio-temporal sharing of these species present in the Palaeartic or Afrotropical region.ConclusionsOur results provide phylogenetic, biogeographic and temporal evidence of horizontal transfers of the Jockey elements, increase the number of rare records of HTT in specific families of LINE elements, increase the number of known occurrences of these events, and enable a broad understanding of the evolutionary dynamics of these elements and the host species.
Low-complexity beam-domain channel estimation and power allocation in hybrid architecture massive MIMO systems
Authors: Chen Xiao , Zhang Zaichen , Wu Liang , Dang Jian 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
In this journal, we investigate the beam-domain channel estimation and power allocation in hybrid architecture massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) communication systems. First, we propose a low-complexity channel estimation method, which utilizes the beam steering vectors achieved from the direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation and beam gains estimated by low-overhead pilots. Based on the estimated beam information, a purely analog precoding strategy is also designed. Then, the optimal power allocation among multiple beams is derived to maximize spectral efficiency. Finally, simulation results show that the proposed schemes can achieve high channel estimation accuracy and spectral efficiency.
Influence of external contextual factors on the implementation of health and social care interventions into practice within or across countries—a protocol for a ‘best fit’ framework synthesis
Authors: Ziemann Alexandra , Brown Louise , Sadler Euan , Ocloo Josephine , Boaz Annette , Sandall Jane 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
The widespread implementation of interventions is often hindered by a decline and variability in effectiveness across implementation sites. It is anticipated that variations in the characteristics of the external context in different sites, such as the political and funding environment, socio-cultural context, physical environment or population demographics can influence implementation outcome. However, there is only a limited understanding about which and how external contextual factors influence implementation. We aim to develop a comprehensive framework conceptualising the influence of external contextual factors on implementation, particularly when spreading health and social care interventions within or across countries.

Methods
The review will use the ‘best fit’ framework synthesis approach. In the first stage of the review, we will examine existing frameworks, models, concepts and theories on external contextual factors and their influence on implementation from a variety of sectors and disciplines including health and social care, education, environmental studies and international development fields. The resulting a priori meta-framework will be tested and refined in the second review stage by analysing evidence from empirical studies focusing on the implementation of health and social care interventions within or across countries. Searches will be conducted in bibliographic databases such as MEDLINE, ERIC, HMIC and IBSS, grey literature sources and on relevant websites. We will also search reference lists, relevant journals, perform citation searches and ask experts in the field. There is no restriction to study type, setting, intervention type or implementation strategy to enable obtaining a broad and in-depth knowledge from various sources of evidence.

Discussion
The review will lead to a comprehensive framework for understanding the influence of external contextual factors on implementation, particularly when spreading health and social care interventions within or across countries. The framework is anticipated to help identify factors explaining the decline and variability in effectiveness of interventions and assessing the prospects of implementation effectiveness, when spreading interventions. We do not intend to only develop another stand-alone implementation framework but one that can be used in conjunction with existing frameworks. The framework can be honed and validated in future empirical research.

Systematic review registration
PROSPERO CRD42018084485
Experimental Studies on Bond Performance of BFRP Bars Reinforced Coral Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Wang Lei , Song Zhaoping , Yi Jin , Li Jiayi , Fu Feng , Qian Kai 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Basalt fiber reinforced polymer (BFRP) rebars reinforced coral aggregate concrete is a new type of concrete used in ocean engineering. In order to investigate the bond performance between BFRP rebars and coral concrete, 30 pull-out tests were carried out in 10 groups with different diameters of BFRP rebars, bonding lengths and strength of the coral concrete. The results show that good bonding between BFRP rebars and coral concrete were achieved. The main failure modes can be categorized as BFRP rebars pull out destruction, splitting failure of coral concrete and BFRP rebars fracture. The bond slip ($$\tau{\text{-}}s$$

τ
-
s

) curves of the BFRP rebars and coral concrete were obtained during the tests. It was found to be similar to the common concrete using fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) bars. The bond-slip relation can be roughly divided into micro-slip phase, slip phase, decline phase, and the residual stress stage. The bond between BFRP rebars and coral concrete increases with the increase of the bond length and diameter of BFRP rebars, but the average bond stress will decrease. Moreover, increasing the strength of coral concrete is effective to improve the bond performance of BFRP rebars. In this paper, the continuous bond slip model (Gao et al. in J Zhengzhou Univ 23:1–5, 2002) was used to represent the $$\tau{\text{-}}s$$

τ
-
s

constitutive relationship of BFRP rebars and coral concrete. The analysis show that the proposed model has a high degree of accuracy in representing $$\tau{\text{-}}s$$

τ
-
s

curve of BFRP rebars and coral concrete.
Pharmacotherapy of infertility in Ghana: retrospective study at the cape coast teaching hospital
Authors: Arhin Stephen Mensah , Mensah Kwesi Boadu , Agbeno Evans , Badii Vitus Sambo , Ansah Charles 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Infertility is a major challenge for couples globally. Due to low income levels and the high cost of other assisted reproductive techniques, pharmacotherapy remain the major first line treatment option for infertility in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Objective
The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of infertility as well as the effectiveness and success achieved following infertility pharmacotherapy at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital in Ghana.

Methods
This study was a retrospective observational study of 825 couples attending infertility clinic at the hospital.

Results
Prevalence of infertility at the study center was estimated to be 12.3%. Treatment mainly involved the use of clomiphene citrate, antioxidants, herbo-mineral drugs (Ayurveda), multivitamin and antibiotics. Pharmacotherapy resulted in successful conception in one out of every five couples (19.4%; n = 160). Secondary infertility, although more prevalent in the study population (44.8%; n = 370), had lower conception rates during pharmacotherapy than primary infertility (15% vs 26.2%). Age, kind of infertility, employment status but not educational level were significantly associated with pharmacotherapy success. In ovulation induction, clomiphene citrate plus folic acid and vitamin E adjuncts improved ovulation rates during cycle treatments compared to clomiphene citrate alone. Pharmacotherapy of idiopathic infertility (39%, n = 323) was a major challenge with very limited success rates. Interestingly, it was noted that treating couples or female partners only for idiopathic infertility resulted in higher success rates than treating the male partner only. Again, 90-day treatment regimen doubled conception rates when compared with corresponding 30-day treatment regimen. However, zinc sulfate even in short term treatment regimens (30 days) enhanced conception rates in idiopathic infertility.

Conclusions
Prevalence of infertility was estimated to be about 12.3%. One out of every five infertile couples achieved success with pharmacotherapy. Factors such as age, type of infertility, employment status, but not education were significantly associated with treatment success.
Non-invasive MR assessment of the microstructure and microcirculation in regional lymph nodes for rectal cancer: a study of intravoxel incoherent motion imaging
Authors: Yang Xinyue , Chen Yan , Wen Ziqiang , Liu Yiyan , Xiao Xiaojuan , Liang Wen , Yu Shenping 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
The aim of this study is to evaluate the microstructure and microcirculation of regional lymph nodes (LNs) in rectal cancer by using non-invasive intravoxel incoherent motion MRI (IVIM-MRI), and to distinguish metastatic from non-metastatic LNs by quantitative parameters.

Methods
All recruited patients underwent IVIM-MRI (b = 0, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 60, 80, 100, 150, 200, 400, 600, 1000, 1500 and 2000 s/mm2) on a 3.0 T MRI system. One hundred sixty-eight regional LNs with a short-axis diameter equal to or greater than 5 mm from 116 patients were evaluated by two radiologists independently, including 78 malignant LNs and 90 benign LNs. The following parameters were assessed: the short-axis diameter (S), long-axis diameter (L), short- to long-axis diameter ratio (S/L), pure diffusion coefficient (D), pseudo-diffusion coefficient (D*), and perfusion factor (f). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess the interobserver agreement between two readers. Receiver operating characteristic curves were applied for analyzing statistically significant parameters.

Results
Interobserver agreement of IVIM-MRI parameters between two readers was excellent (ICCs> 0.75). The metastatic group exhibited higher S, L and D (P < 0.001), but lower f (P < 0.001) than the non-metastatic group. The area under the curve (95% CI, sensitivity, specificity) of the multi-parameter combined equation for D, f and S was 0.811 (0.744~0.868, 62.82%, 87.78%). The diagnostic performance of the multi-parameter model was better than that of an individual parameter (P < 0.05).

Conclusion
IVIM-MRI parameters provided information about the microstructure and microcirculation of regional LNs in rectal cancer, also improved diagnostic performance in identifying metastatic LNs.
Laparoscopic fundoplication for a case of esophageal hiatal hernia after gastroschisis repair
Authors: Hirose Ryuichiro , Obata Satoshi , Tojigamori Manabu , Nakamura Masatoshi , Taguchi Shohei , Arima Toru 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Esophageal hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux have been recognized as inevitable complications after the definitive gastroschisis operation. Patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux require anti-reflux surgery; however, the surgical adhesions may complicate subsequent surgical therapy, especially in the cases treated by staged repair.

Case presentation
A male infant who showed a severe gastroesophageal reflux due to hiatal hernia after staged abdominal fascial closure of gastroschisis. In spite of continuous conservative management, frequent vomiting and hematemesis had become progressively worse at the age of 8 months. Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication was attempted and completed with no adverse events.

Conclusions
Laparoscopic fundoplication may be applied, as a first-line approach, for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux in this difficult group of patients, after the repair of congenital abdominal wall defect.
Anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of an aqueous extract of blended leaves of Ocimum gratissimum and Psidium guajava
Authors: Alabi Akinyinka O. , Ajayi Abayomi M. , Omorogbe Osarume , Umukoro Solomon 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
To investigate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of aqueous extract of a blended mixture of dried leaves of Ocimum gratissimum and Psidium guajava, a traditional analgesic drug polyherbal (TADP) used as a remedy for pain-related conditions.

Methods
Antinociceptive activity of TADP (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) was evaluated in the hot plate test and acetic acid-induced nociception in mice while the anti-inflammatory was evaluated in carrageenan-induced paw oedema in rats. Levels of nitrite, myeloperoxidase, glutathione and malondialdehyde were assayed in carrageenan-induced paw tissue.

Results
TADP (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly prolong the latency time in the hot-plate test. TADP (100–400 mg/kg) produced a dose-dependent significant inhibition of the acetic-acid induced abdominal constriction. The antinociceptive activity of TADP in the presence of naloxone and atropine was not reversed whereas yohimbine and glibenclamide significantly reversed it. TADP (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly reduced the swelling in the carrageenan-induced oedema model and also produced a reduction in the nitrite and myeloperoxidase level. TADP (400 mg/kg) significantly reduced malondialdehyde concentration and increase glutathione level in the carrageenan-induced rat paw. TADP significantly decrease the number of cellular infiltrates in the histopathological assessment.

Conclusion
These results indicate that polyherbal product containing blended leaves of Ocimum gratissimum and Psidium guajava possess antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties, hence represents a promising alternative remedy in inflammation-induced pain.
Chromosome band 11q23 deletion predicts poor prognosis in bone marrow metastatic neuroblastoma patients without MYCN amplification
Authors: Yue Zhi‐Xia , Xing Tian‐Yu , Gao Chao , Liu Shu‐Guang , Zhao Wen , Zhao Qian , Wang Xi‐Si , Jin Mei , Ma Xiao‐Li 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundInterphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) of bone marrow cells has been confirmed to be a direct and valid method to assess the v‐myc avian myelocytomatosis viral oncogene neuroblastoma derived homolog (MYCN) amplification in patients with bone marrow metastatic neuroblastoma. MYCN amplification alone, however, is insufficient for pretreatment risk stratification. Chromosome band 11q23 deletion has recently been included in the risk stratification of neuroblastoma. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the biological characteristics and prognostic impact of 11q23 deletion and MYCN amplification in patients with bone marrow metastatic neuroblastoma.MethodsWe analyzed the MYCN and 11q23 statuses of 101 patients with bone marrow metastatic neuroblastoma using interphase FISH of bone marrow cells. We specifically compared the biological characteristics and prognostic impact of both aberrations.ResultsMYCN amplification and 11q23 deletion were seen in 12 (11.9%) and 40 (39.6%) patients. The two markers were mutually exclusive. MYCN amplification occurred mainly in patients with high lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and high neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) levels (both P< 0.001), and MYCN‐amplified patients had more events (tumor relapse, progression, or death) than MYCN‐normal patients (P= 0.004). 11q23 deletion was associated only with age (P= 0.001). Patients with MYCN amplification had poorer outcomes than those with normal MYCN (3‐year event‐free survival [EFS] rate: 8.3 ± 8.0% vs. 43.8 ± 8.5%, P < 0.001; 3‐year overall survival [OS] rate: 10.4 ± 9.7% vs. 63.5% ± 5.7%, P < 0.001). 11q23 deletion reflected a poor prognosis only for patients with normal MYCN (3‐year EFS rate: 34.3 ± 9.5% vs. 53.4 ± 10.3%, P= 0.037; 3‐year OS rate: 42.9 ± 10.4% vs. 75.9 ± 6.1%, P= 0.048). Those with both MYCN amplification and 11q23 deletion had the worst outcome (P< 0.001).ConclusionsChromosome band 11q23 deletion predicts poor prognosis only in bone marrow metastatic neuroblastoma patients without MYCN amplification. Combined assessment of the two markers was much superior to single‐marker assessment in recognizing the patients at a high risk of disease progression.
Identification and profiling of microRNAs responsive to cadmium toxicity in hepatopancreas of the freshwater crab Sinopotamon henanense
Authors: Xu Peng , Guo Huiqin , Wang Huihui , Xie Yuxin , Lee Shao Chin , Liu Ming , Zheng Jian , Mao Xiuli , Wang Huan , Liu Fatao , Wan Chunling , Qin Shengying , Liu Yun , Zhao Meirong , Wang Lan 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundCadmium (Cd) is a ubiquitous environmental toxicant for aquatic animals. The freshwater crab,Sinopotamon henanense(S. henanense), is a useful model for monitoring Cd exposure since it is widely distributed in sediments whereby it tends to accumulate several toxicants, including Cd. In the recent years, the toxic effects of Cd in the hepatopancreas ofS. henanensehave been demonstrated by a series of biochemical analysis and ultrastructural observations as well as the deep sequencing approaches and gene expression profile analysis. However, the post-transcriptional regulatory network underlying Cd toxicity inS.henanenseis still largely unknown.ResultsThe miRNA transcriptional profile of the hepatopancreas ofS. henanensewas used to investigate the expression levels of miRNAs in response to Cd toxicity. In total, 464 known miRNAs and 191 novel miRNAs were identified. Among these 656 miRNAs, 126 known miRNAs could be matched with the miRNAs ofPortunus trituberculatus,Eriocheir sinensisandScylla paramamosain. Furthermore, a total of 24 conserved miRNAs were detected in these four crab species. Fifty-one differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in the Cd-exposed group, with 31 up-regulated and 20 down-regulated. Eight of the differentially expressed miRNAs were randomly selected and verified by the quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and there was a general consistency (87.25%) between the qRT-PCR and miRNA transcriptome data. A total of 5258 target genes were screened by bioinformatics prediction. GO term analysis showed that, 17 GO terms were significantly enriched, which were mainly related to the regulation of oxidoreductase activity. KEGG pathway analysis showed that 18 pathways were significantly enriched, which were mainly associated with the biosynthesis, modification and degradation of proteins.ConclusionIn response to Cd toxicity, in the hepatopancreas ofS. henanense, the expressions of significant amount of miRNAs were altered, which may be an adaptation to resist the oxidative stress induced by Cd. These results provide a basis for further studies of miRNA-mediated functional adaptation of the animal to combat Cd toxicity.
Saliency at first sight: instant identity referential advantage toward a newly met partner
Authors: Cheng Miao , Tseng Chia-huei 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Neutral information enjoys beneficial processing when it is associated with self and significant others, but less is known about how the identity referential advantage is constructed in the initial stages of a relationship. We offer a novel solution by asking if a newly met stranger could provide a processing advantage in a shape-identity matching task where shapes were associated with the names of different identities. Each participant was paired with a newly met partner in a joint shape-identity matching task in which three shapes were associated with the names of the participant or his/her best friend, the partner, and a stranger, respectively. The participants judged whether or not the shape and name correctly matched.
Intriguingly, the trials related to a newly met partner exhibited instant referential saliency, which was more accurate and faster than that related to the stranger’s name (baseline) when the partner was physically present (experiments 1, 2, 4, 5), but not when the partner was absent (experiment 3). Self-advantage, however, was robust and lasting. The precursor of physical presence when forming referential saliency toward a stranger and its distinct temporal dynamics imply a novel referential benefit unendowed with familiarity, which is qualitatively different from the well-documented self/friend-advantage effect.
Nonlinear regression without i.i.d. assumption
Authors: Xu Qing , Xuan Xiaohua (Michael) 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
In this paper, we consider a class of nonlinear regression problems without the assumption of being independent and identically distributed. We propose a correspondent mini-max problem for nonlinear regression and give a numerical algorithm. Such an algorithm can be applied in regression and machine learning problems, and yields better results than traditional least squares and machine learning methods.