bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
TUG1 as ceRNA combined with miR-29a to promotes the expression of IFITM3 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Weiwei , Feng Qian , Liao Wenjun , Gao Jun , Ai Jiyuan , Zhang Rongguiyi , Li Enliang , Wu Linquan 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Numerous studies have shown that TUG1 has an important relationship with tumorigenesis. TUG1 is highly expressed in most tumors and can promote tumor development. However, the role of TUG1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains to be studied. miR-29a plays a tumor suppressor role in a variety of tumors, and there is a relationship between TUG1 and miR-29a, but the specific relationship and mechanism of action are still unclear. miR-29a can inhibit the expression of IFITM3. However, the regulatory relationship between these three components requires elucidation. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory relationship between TUG1, miR-29a, and IFITM3 in human hepatocarcinogenesis.Methods: The expression levels of TUG1 and miR-29a in tumor tissues and adjacent non-tumor tissues of 41 HCC patients were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The migration and invasion of liver cancer cells were studied by a wound healing assay and the Transwell method. The apoptosis rate of hepatocarcinoma cells was detected by flow cytometry, and the proliferation rate of hepatoma cells was detected by the EdU method. Immunofluorescence was selected to detect the expression of TUG1 and IFITM3 in HCC-LM3 and HL-7702. The relationship between TUG1 and miR-29a was detected using a double luciferase report and FISH. Tumors were established in vivo by subcutaneous injection of hepatocellular carcinoma cells into nude mice and injection of these cells into the tail vein. Western blotting was used to quantify the biomarkers. Results: TUG1 expression increased significantly in both tumor tissues and HCC cells. The expression of miR-29a in liver cancer tissues was also significantly lower than that in normal human liver tissues. The expression of TUG1 in HCC tissue samples was negatively correlated with that of miR-29a. Moreover, the expression of TUG1 was positively correlated with the expression of IFITM3. TUG1 can regulate the migration, invasion, apoptosis, and proliferation of HCC lines in vitro and regulate the development of tumors in vivo. Knocking down TUG1 will increase miR-29a expression, and thus, weaken the invasion, migration, and proliferation of HCC cells and enhance their apoptosis. miR-29a can affect the occurrence and progression of liver cancer through IFITM3. It was found that TUG1 regulates IFITM3 in HCC cells via miR-29a, and its expression affects cell invasion, migration, proliferation, and apoptosis.Conclusion: As a CeRNA, TUG1 competitively binds mir-29a to regulate IFITM3 and promote the development of liver cancer. Downregulation of TUG1 can significantly inhibit the migration, invasion, and proliferation of liver cancer cells, and TUG1 is expected to serve as a key gene to improve the prognosis of patients.
Gumbel-softmax-based Optimization: A Simple General Framework for Optimization Problems on Graphs
Authors: Li Yaoxin , Liu Jing , Lin Guozheng , Hou Yueyuan , Mou Muyun , Zhang Jiang 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
In computer science, there exist a large number of optimization problems defined on graphs, that is to find a best node state configuration or a network structure such that the designed objective function is optimized under some constraints. However, these problems are notorious for their hardness to solve because most of them are NP-hard or NP-complete. Although traditional general methods such as simulated annealing (SA), genetic algorithms (GA) and so forth have been devised to these hard problems, their accuracy and time consumption are not satisfying in practice. In this work, we proposed a simple, fast, and general algorithm framework based on advanced automatic differentiation technique empowered by deep learning frameworks. By introducing Gumbel-softmax technique, we can optimize the objective function directly by gradient descent algorithm regardless of the discrete nature of variables. We also introduce evolution strategy to parallel version of our algorithm. We test our algorithm on three representative optimization problems on graph including modularity optimization from network science, Sherrington-Kirkpatrick (SK) model from statistical physics, maximum independent set (MIS) and minimum vertex cover (MVC) problem from combinatorial optimization on graph. High-quality solutions can be obtained with much less time consuming compared to traditional approaches.
A case report of moderate COVID-19 with an extremely long-term viral shedding period in China
Authors: Wang Yonghong , Liu Chaoyuan , Meng Qinghui , Gui Shuang , Wu Yu , Cheng Pengjiang , Wang Peng , Liao Xiuyong 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: An ongoing outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from Wuhan, China, is currently recognized as a global public health emergency, which has subsequently spread to the rest of China and other countries. The WHO raised the COVID-19 alert to the highest level. The virus is a new highly contagious via human-to-human transmission. The median duration of viral shedding is 20.0 days. We report that the longest duration of viral shedding was 32.0 days from illness onset in a patient with moderate COVID-19 admitted to QianJiang Central Hospital.Case presentation: A 37-year-old male sought medical advice while suffering from fever, dry cough, fatigue, dizziness, runny nose and diarrhoea. Five days before the visit, he had a history of travel from affected geographic areas. The patient had a positive RT-PCR test, and chest CT images showed multiple nodules and mixed ground-glass opacification with consolidation in both lungs. Laboratory findings showed that his lymphocyte and CD4+ counts were below the normal range. The patient was given antiviral treatment, including arbidol, lopinavir, IFN-α, and traditional Chinese medicine, and other necessary support care. All clinical symptoms and CT imaging manifestation abnormalities resolved during the course of therapy.Conclusion: Although the positive RT-PCR tests were verified in consecutive upper respiratory specimens, the clinical symptoms, CT imaging findings, CD4+ lymphocyte counts, and IgG antibody levels had obviously improved. Positive tests may be detecting pieces of inactive viruses, which would not be transmissible in individual cases.
Clinical Application of Chromosomal Microarray Analysis for Fetuses with Craniofacial Malformations
Authors: Xu Chenyang , Xiang Yanbao , Xu Xueqin , Zhou Lili , Li Huanzheng , Dong Xueqin , Tang Shaohua 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) for prenatal diagnosis of craniofacial malformations (CFMs). We also investigated the potential correlations between chromosomal abnormalities and CFMs. To this end, 118 fetuses with CFMs were enrolled in the study and underwent both G-banded chromosome analysis and CMA. Results Of the 118 cases in this study, 39.8% were isolated CFMs (47/118) whereas 60.2% were non-isolated CFMs (71/118). The detection rate of chromosomal abnormalities or submicroscopic chromosomal abnormalities in non-isolated CFM fetuses was significantly higher than that in isolated CFM fetuses (26/71 vs. 7/47, p = 0.01). Compared to the 16 fetuses (16/104; 15.4%) with pathogenic chromosomal abnormalities detected by karyotype analysis, CMA identified a total of 33 fetuses (33/118; 28.0%) with clinically significant findings. These 33 fetuses included cases with aneuploidy abnormalities (14/118; 11.9%), microdeletion/microduplication syndromes (9/118; 7.6%), and other pathogenic CNVs only (10/118; 8.5%). We further explored the CNV/phenotype correlation and found a series of clear or suspected dosage-sensitive CFM genes. Conclusion CMA is a rapid and reliable molecular technique to identify fetal chromosomal aberrations associated with CFMs. Identification of the genetic basis of CFMs contributes to the understanding of their pathogenesis and etiology.
Effects of Short-term Existential Group Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Nakamura Chizu , Kawase Masatoshi 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Objectives: Cancer patients who suffer from existential difficulties, including fear of death, isolation, or loss of human relationships, try to accept these fears by exploring the meaning of their life. In particular, earlier psychological intervention for patients prevents them from psychosocial maladjustment afterwards. Therefore we have developed the Short-term Existential Group therapy Program (Short-term EGP) for cancer patients focusing on relief of existential or spiritual suffering and/or pain. This study aims to statistically evaluate the effects of this program on breast cancer patients within the first year after cancer diagnosis.Methods: 31 patients completed our research program. A ninety-minute therapeutic group session was held once a week for five weeks. We performed the above assessments three times: just before and after the intervention, as well as a month after the end of intervention. Outcome assessment included measures of spiritual well-being (SELT-M), Mental Adjustment to Cancer (MAC) and Profile of Mood States (POMS).Results: The SELT-M “Overall QOL” scores were significantly increased after intervention, and these scores were maintained a month after intervention, particularly in those with high MAC “Hopelessness” scores. Subscales of the SELT-M scores were significantly increased after intervention, and these scores were maintained up to a month after interventionSignificance of Results: We observed that the Short-term EGP intervention was effective in helping patients relieve their existential distresses. Some of the treatment effects were observed to be maintained a month after end of the intervention. In addition, Short-term EGP is particularly effective for those patients who feel hopelessness after cancer diagnosis.Trial registration The study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of the Department of Psychology of Kyoto Notre Dame University (H22-3,14-008).
Electroacupuncture preconditioning alleviated myocardial injury via regulating mitochondrial function
Authors: Wang Chunai , Liang Xi , Yu Yan , Li Yulan , Wen Xiaohui , Liu Min 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
BackgroundIn clinical research, integrated Chinese and Western medicine has been increasing accepted due to the advantages. Clinical studies related to bupivacaine-induced myocardial injury are considered indispensable. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to verify whether acupuncture preconditioning could alleviate side effect of bupivacaine-induced. MethodsSimulating bupivacaine-induced myocardial injury in clinical surgery, western blot, PCR, transmission electron microscope, Elisa methods were used to evaluate the bupivacaine-induced structure injury and dysfunction of mitochondria, and alleviating effect of lipid emulsion, acupoint injection, and electroacupuncture pre-treatment oxidase stress response. ResultsBupivacaine caused structural damage, degradation, and swelling of mitochondria. Furthermore, it reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis and impaired energy metabolism in mitochondria. Structural and functional impairment of mitochondria were alleviated via lipid emulsion injection, acupoint injection, and electroacupuncture pre-treatment. Electroacupuncture pre-treatment yielded a greater alleviating effect than the other two approaches. Following electroacupuncture pre-treatment, the number of mitochondria increased, apoptosis was reduced, enzymatic activity of cytochrome C oxidase and superoxide dismutases, expression of uncoupling protein 2, Voltage-dependent anion channel 1, and Bcl 2 were upregulated and SLC25A6, MDA level was downregulated. Additionally, our findings indicated that electroacupuncture pre-treatment exerted an effect on mitochondria via the mitochondrial transcription factor A / nuclear respiratory factor 1 / proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator -1 pathway. ConclusionOur study revealed that electroacupuncture pre-treatment could effectively alleviate bupivacaine-induced myocardial mitochondrial damage, thereby providing a theoretical basis for clinical studies and application of this treatment method.
Is limited aortic resection more justified in elderly patients with type A acute aortic dissection?
Authors: Qin Wei , Su Cunhua , Li Liangpeng , Carmichael Michael , Huang Fuahua , Chen Xin 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Objective
This study compared limited aortic repair (ascending, and /or hemi-arch replacement) versus extended-arch repair (ascending, arch and proximal descending aortic replacement) used for patients aged 65 or older, who had type A acute aortic dissection (AAD), analyzing the influence of the extent of aortic repair on outcomes.
Methods
From January, 2001 to December, 2015, 103 patients aged 65 or older underwent operation due to type A AAD in Nanjing First Hospital. The cohort was divided into two subgroups according to the surgical approaches, including limited aortic replacement (LAR, n = 41) and total arch replacement + stent elephant trunk implantation (TAR + SET, n = 62).
Results
There was no significant difference in gender, age, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, PCI history, atrial fibrillation, pericardial effusion, aortic valve insufficiency (≥ moderate), shock situation before operation, and Euro-score II between the two groups except limb malperfusion and tear location. The cross-clamp time, CPB time, intubation time, ICU stay time and hospital time were all significantly less in the LAR group than in the TAR + SET group. A total of 89 patients were discharged home successfully after operation, with a difference of hospital mortality (P = 0.04). The overall survival rates at 5-year follow-up were 82.5 ± 6.0% in LAR group and 75.2 ± 5.6% in TAR + SET group, but with no difference (p = 0.151). The freedom from adverse aortic events at 5-year was 84.3 ± 6.5% in LAR group versus 97.9 ± 2.1% in TAR + SET group, with a statistical difference (p = 0.03).
Conclusion
These findings support limited aortic resection is acceptable for elderly patients with type A AAD if surgical principles allow.
The role of Nrf2 in acute and chronic muscle injury
Authors: Bronisz-Budzyńska Iwona , Kozakowska Magdalena , Łoboda Agnieszka , Dulak Józef 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) is considered as a master cytoprotective factor regulating the expression of genes coding for anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying proteins. The role of Nrf2 in the pathophysiology of skeletal muscles has been evaluated in different experimental models, however, due to inconsistent data, we aimed to investigate how Nrf2 transcriptional deficiency (Nrf2tKO) affects muscle functions both in acute and chronic injury. The acute muscle damage was induced in mice of two genotypes – WT and Nrf2tKO mice by cardiotoxin (CTX) injection. To investigate the role of Nrf2 in chronic muscle pathology, mdx mice that share genetic, biochemical, and histopathological features with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) were crossed with mice lacking transcriptionally active Nrf2 and double knockouts (mdx/Nrf2tKO) were generated. We have observed slightly increased muscle degeneration and delayed regeneration in Nrf2tKO mice after CTX treatment. Nevertheless, transcriptional ablation of Nrf2 in mdx mice did not significantly aggravate the most deleterious pathological hallmarks of DMD such as degeneration, inflammation, fibrotic scar formation, and decreased angiogenesis, as well as the number and proliferation of satellite cells. In conclusion, our analyses in both acute and chronic injury mouse models have revealed no significant influence of Nrf2 transcriptional deficiency on skeletal muscle regeneration and function.
Safety and tolerability of prescribed usage of Derise® (Darbepoetin Alfa, Hetero) in symptomatic anemia: A Phase IV Post-Authorization Study
Authors: Sinha Shubhadeep , Bandi Vamsi Krishna , Bheemareddy Bala Reddy , Thakur Pankaj , Chary Sreenivasa , Talluri Leela , Kakkunnath Sheejith , Das Priyanka , Sanka Srinivasa 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background This phase IV, post–authorisation safety & efficacy study evaluated the safety, immunogenicity and tolerability of prescribed usage of Darbepoetin alfa, (DA-α, manufactured by Hetero Biopharma) for the treatment of symptomatic anemia in Indian patients with chronic renal failure.Methods Adults patients of either gender suffering from anemia associated with chronic renal failure patients were prescribed and treated with DA-α and followed up for 1 year. 503 patients were enrolled into the study, of which 121 patients were evaluated for immunogenicity at the end of treatment phase (up to 24 weeks) and after 1-year (52 weeks after start of treatment) follow up. Safety end points were the incidence of treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and immunogenicity as assessed by anti-drug antibody titers using validated enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods. Efficacy end point included improvement in the hemoglobin, mean change in Hemoglobin (Hb) levels from baseline to end of treatment (up to 24 weeks). Statistical analyses were performed to explore and analyze details of individual case safety reports of adverse events such as incidence, severity, seriousness, outcome, duration, action taken, and causality relationship of individual adverse event (AE) to the prescribed study drug. Results 87 AEs were reported in this study and most of them were mild to moderate in intensity. No deaths or serious adverse events (SAEs) were reported in this study. Anti-drug antibodies were not detected in any subject at the end of treatment phase and after 12 months long term follow up period. Baseline mean Hemoglobin value was 8.34 (SD 1.24) g/dL and last visit mean Hemoglobin value was 10.42 (SD 1.28) g/dL. The mean difference between baseline and last visit was 2.10 [2.00, 2.20], statistically significant (p-value <.0001). Clinical Trial Registry Number: CTRI/2017/04/008338 [Registered on CTRI http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/login.php : 12/04/2017]; Trial Registered Retrospectively
Master of public health practicum: Global trends and current practices.
Authors: Gummeson Hannah , Goel Sonika Raj , Elmusharaf Khalifa 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background The field of graduate public health (GPH) education currently lacks clear, universal criteria for the integration of practice-based elements into the curriculum. The concept of the ‘practicum’ is well endorsed and there is a growing recognition that experiential learning is a crucial aspect of career development for the next generation of public health professionals, benefiting not only students, but also the profession and communities it serves. However, many leading academic institutions continue to emphasize research over experiential learning in public health, making practicums much less commonplace in education centers across the globe. Methods The purpose of this research was to review global best practices in graduate public health program design in order to identify commonalities and use the findings to inform practicum development.Data collection for this research was entirely web-based. Practicum guidelines from a globally diverse sample of graduate public health programs were reviewed. Data was compiled from universities’ websites and available online sources and collated into an Excel file. Descriptive statistics were computed for each study variable.Results We screened 108 graduate public health programs and 35 eligible programs were included in the study. Results were reported according to prerequisites & practicum scheduling, practicum contact hours & duration, credit hours & overall credit weighting, competencies, supervision, written agreement, objectives & deliverables, and approach to assessment. This research resulted in 13 recommendations intended to guide graduate public health practicum design. Based on the analysis of current best practice, the recommendations address the following four key domains: practicum design, mentorship & supervision, learning outcomes and evaluation. Conclusions This research demonstrates a global recognition of the benefit of practice experience in graduate public health education. However, the integration of practical components into curricula is inconsistent when viewed through a global lens. There is also significant variation in the structure of existing practical components. We propose that this study be utilized as a tool spark a global dialogue about best practices in graduate public health education through the identification common practices and opportunities for improvement.
Sex-bias in COVID-19: a meta-analysis and review of sex differences in disease and immunity
Authors: Peckham Hannah , Gruijter Nina de , Raine Charles , Radziszewska Anna , Ciurtin Coziana , Wedderburn Lucy R. , Rosser Elizabeth C. , Deakin Claire , Webb Kate 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
A striking anecdotal feature of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak is the difference in morbidity and mortality between the sexes. Here, we present a meta-analysis of 206, 128 reported cases to demonstrate that whilst there is no difference in the proportion of males and females with confirmed COVID-19, male patients have more than double the odds of requiring intensive treatment unit admission (OR 2.5) and higher odds of death (OR 1.60) when compared to females. We review data revealing how previous Coronavirus outbreaks have demonstrated a similar pattern. Important differences in the immune response to infection exist between sexes, which are likely to contribute to this observation. In this review, we discuss these differences highlighting that females have a more robust innate antiviral response and a better adaptive immune response to infection. An appreciation of how sex is influencing COVID-19 outcomes will have important implications for clinical management and mitigation strategies for this disease.
Unique Immunological Profile In Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Varchetta Stefania , Mele Dalila , Oliviero Barbara , Mantovani Stefania , Ludovisi Serena , Cerino Antonella , Vecchia Marco , Roda Silvia , Sachs Michele , Bruno Raffaele , Mondelli Mario U. 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and host immunity is unknown. We show here that patients with COVID-19 had an altered immune phenotype, with an expansion of adaptive FceRIgneg NK cells, and inflammatory CD14+CD16+ monocytes. T cells were reduced and overexpressed the Tim-3 exhaustion molecule. Low frequencies of CD8 T cells and NKG2A+ NK cells, and expansion of mature CD57+ NK cells were associated with poor prognosis. These findings unveil a unique immunological profile in COVID-19 patients.
Simulation of Ventilator Allocation Strategies During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bhavani Sivasubramanium V. , Miller William D. , Han Xuan , Malec Monica , Ross Lainie F. , Siegler Mark , Parker William F. 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
As the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections mount globally, hospital systems face unprecedented demands on limited resources, including ventilators. Existing ventilator allocation strategies have not undergone rigorous analyses to evaluate their real-world implications. To address this critical gap in knowledge with profound societal implications, we present a simulation model to evaluate the proposed allocation strategies and report the trade-offs between these strategies that merit careful consideration.