bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Serum Exosomal miRNAs as Biomarkers of Early Diagnosis and Progression in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Yang Qian , He Shulei , Huang Lu , Shao Ci , Nie Tiejian , Xia Li , Cui Bozhou , Lu Fangfang , Zhu Lin , Chen Bolin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundBlood-based test for disease progression and early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a long awaited but unsolved key problem in the clinic. The profiles of microRNAs (miRNAs) are regarded as potential diagnostic biomarkers in human diseases whereas the miRNAs in the periphery are susceptible to the influence of various components. MiRNAs enriched in serum exosomes have revealed disease-specific advantages for the diagnosis due to their high abundance, stability and resistant to degradation. This study aimed to screen differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs between healthy controls and PD patients to aid in diagnosis. MethodsA total of 103 healthy controls and diagnosed PD patients at different Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y) stages in Tangdu Hospital were included. In total, 185 differentially expressed miRNAs were obtained through miRNA sequencing of serum exosomes as well as edgeR and t-test analyses. Subsequently, the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to identify the commonly expressed miRNAs in all stages of PD by constructing connections between modules and specifically expressed miRNAs in each stage of PD by functional enrichment analysis. The obtained miRNAs were further validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) with peripheral blood exosomes from 30 more participants. ResultsUsing WGCNA, it was found that 4 miRNAs were commonly associated with all the stages of PD and 13 miRNAs were specifically associated with different stages of PD. Among the 17 miRNAs, 2 were commonly expressed in all the stages of PD and 5 were specifically expressed in different stages of PD via qRT-PCR; 5 were also specifically expressed in different stages of PD by WGCNA, but validation by qRT-PCR showed inconsistent results; the remaining 5 miRNAs did not exhibit significant differences by qRT-PCR. ConclusionsThis study revealed that the 7 serum exosomal miRNAs (hsa-miR-374a-5p, hsa-miR-374b-5p, hsa-miR-199a-3p, hsa-miR-195-5p, hsa-miR-28-5p, hsa-miR-22-5p and hsa-miR-151a-5p) we screened out may potentially be used as biomarkers for progression and early grading diagnosis of PD in the population.
The Influence of NacLee Biological Fertilizer, Fitop 8.67 Preparation, and Mineral Fertilizer to the Crop Yield of Rice in Kazakhstan Aral Sea Region
Authors: Rakhimova Ainura , Ybraikozha Nurzhan , Toktamysov Asset , Yelenova ELMIRA 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Bio-fertilizers are becoming more and more popular in many countries and for many cultures, but there are too few researches of their influence to crop yield concerning rice. Therefore we have assessed 2 different bio-preparations at the Aral Sea region during four agricultural seasons between 2016 and 2019. The experiments were held in fully irrigated conditions in the typical lowland rice environment. The article contains the results of the research in the use of complex liquid fertilizers and biological preparations. The purpose of the researches is the use of complex liquid fertilizers and biological preparations and the analysis of agro-ecological effect on rice growth in the conditions of the Aral Sea region. We have conducted field experimental studies to determine the agro-ecological efficiency of the use of complex liquid fertilizers and biological preparations and their influence on increasing the rice crop yield.
Low-temperature Conversion of Fe-rich Sludge to KFeS2 Whisker: a New Flocculant Synthesis From Laboratory Scale to Pilot Scale
Authors: Liang Dongxu , Chen Yu , Zhu Suiyi , Gao Yidi , Sun Tong , Ri Kyonghun , Xie Xinfeng 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
KFeS2 is a one-dimensional material and commonly used raw material for synthesising AgFeS2 and CuFeS2. With the solvothermal method, KFeS2 cluster could be synthesised at 190 °C with chemically pure grade Fe salt as Fe source. Herein, a KFeS2 whisker was formed in mass production at a low temperature, with waste cold-rolling sludge as Fe source, and exhibited good performance in the removal of Zn/Ni from real electroplating effluent. At laboratory scale, results showed that KFeS2 was not generated after heating at 50 °C for 24 h; however, after heating at 80 °C for 10 h, KFeS2 whisker (diameter and length of 0.2 and 0.5–1 mm, respectively) was produced, which grew radially to 1–4 mm after 24 h. This method was applied at pilot scale, where a similar KFeS2 whisker was also produced with waste cold-rolling sludge as Fe source. At pilot scale, a residual brownish supernatant was observed after the reaction and then completely recycled in the next round for KFeS2 synthesis. After recycling five times, the produced KFeS2 whisker did not change. For KFeS2 drying, freeze-drying and vacuum-drying were applicable, whilst air-drying was not profitable. The prepared KFeS2 was spontaneously hydrolysed in electroplating wastewater to generate Fe/S-bearing oxyhydroxide colloid for Zn/Ni removal. By adding 1 g of KFeS2, the residual levels of Zn/Ni were 0.22 and 0.02 mg/L, met the discharge standard of electroplating wastewater. Undried KFeS2 showed similar efficiencies of Zn/Ni removal to dried KFeS2, whose efficiencies were apparently higher than those with Na2S·9H2O, polymeric ferric sulfuric, sodium diethyldithiocarbamatre and lime. With the method, KFeS2 whisker was produced at pilot scale without generating any secondary waste and exhibited good performance in the treatment of electroplating wastewater.
Inference of molecular orientation/ordering change nearby topological defects by the neural network function from the microscopic color information
Authors: Sakanoue Haruka , Hayashi Yuki , Katayama Kenji 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Topological defects in liquid crystals (LCs) dominate molecular alignment/motion in many cases. Here, the neural network (NN) function has been introduced to predict the LC orientation condition (orientation angle and order parameter) at local positions around topological defects from the phase/polarization microscopic color images. The NN function was trained in advance by using the color information of an LC in a planar alignment cell for different orientation angles and temperatures. The photo-induced changes of LC molecules around topological defects observed by the time-resolved measurement was converted into the image sequences of the orientation angle and the order parameter change. We found that each pair of brushes with different colors around topological defects showed different orientation angle and ordering changes. The photo-induced change was triggered by the photoisomerization reaction of molecules, and one pair of brushes increased in its order parameter just after light irradiation, causing gradual rotation in the brush. The molecules in the other pair of brushes were disordered and rotated by the effect of the initially affected region. This combination approach of the time-resolved phase/polarization microscopy and the NN function can provide detailed information on the molecular alignment dynamics around the topological defects.
A Novel Mutation in the PRPH2 Gene in a Chinese Pedigree with Retinitis Pigmentosa and Angle-closure Glaucoma
Authors: Li Wei-ning , Du Xiu-juan , Zhang Yu-ting , Wang Le-yi , Zhu Jing 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a rare, progressive, and hereditary disorder that leads to the progressive loss of vision and visual field, and in some cases blindness. The specific relationship between RP and glaucoma has been debated for decades.Methods: In this study, we examined a Han RP family with concomitant angle-closure glaucoma (ACG), performed an inductive analysis of their clinical features and assistant results, and applied whole-exome sequencing (WES) technology for a molecular diagnosis. Results: A novel transversion mutation (c.626T>A) was identified in the peripherin-2 (PRPH2) gene in the proband, resulting in the substitution of tyrosine to aspartic acid in codon 209. A full ophthalmic examination showed that the proband with the c.626T>A mutation had a typical RP manifestation, with close angles; however, the proband’s elder brother, who lacked the novel mutation, had a normal fundus and open angles. Conclusion: Our results extend the genetic mutation spectrum of PRPH2 in RP, and provide evidence to support a genetic correlation between RP and ACG.
Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer in a High-incidence Area of Malawi
Authors: Geßner Anja L. , Borkowetz Angelika , Wilhelm Torsten J. , Ludzu Enock , Baier Michael , Mothes Henning 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Purpose To explore associations of nutritional, infectious, and lifestyle factors with esophageal cancer (EC) occurrence in a high-risk area of Malawi.Methods This case–control study was performed with 227 patients. Data on clinicopathological characteristics and risk factors were collected using a questionnaire developed for this study specifically. Ninety-eight blood samples were collected and the prevalence of antibodies against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and Helicobacter pylori were determined serologically. Fisher’s exact test was used for nominal variables and the Mann–Whitney U test was used for continuous variables. Binary linear regression was performed with variables that were significant in the Fisher and Mann–Whitney tests.Results The tumor and control groups comprised 157 and 70 patients, respectively. Patients with tumors were significantly older than controls (P < 0.001). EC was associated with smoking (P < 0.001) and alcohol consumption (P = 0.020), but 43% of patients with tumors did not smoke or drink. EC was associated with the consumption of hot food and tea (P = 0.003) and smoked fish (P = 0.011). EC was not associated with any serologically investigated infectious agent. In logistic regression analysis, age [odds ratio (OR), 1.042; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.019–1.066; P < 0.001] and hot food and tea consumption (OR, 2.331; 95% CI, 1.167–4.656; P = 0.016) were significant.Conclusions Apart from alcohol consumption and smoking, the consumption of hot food or tea and smoked fish are associated with EC in Malawi.
Relation between Traditional Semen Parameters, Sperm DNA Fragmentation, and Unexplained Recurrent Miscarriage: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Dai Yanpeng , Liu Junjie , Yuan Enwu , Shi Ying , Zhang Linlin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Several studies have explored the relation between traditional semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), and unexplained recurrent miscarriage (RM), but these findings remain controversial. Hence, we conducted this meta-analysis to explore the relation between traditional semen parameters, SDF, and unexplained RM. Methods: Multiple databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science databases, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched to identify relevant publications. From the eligible publications, data were extracted independently by two researchers. The heterogeneity between publications was calculated using the I2 statistics and Cochran’s Q test. Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata/SE 12.0 (StataCorp, College Station, Texas, USA). Based on heterogeneity assessment, random- or fixed-effects models were selected to calculate the weighted mean differences (WMDs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). To estimate the stability of the pooled results, a sensitivity analysis was conducted by excluding each study. To estimate the possible publication bias, Egger’s regression test and Begg’s funnel plot were used. Results: A total of 280 publications were produced using the search strategy. According to the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 19 publications were eligible. A total of 1182 couples with unexplained RM and 1231 couples without RM were included in this meta-analysis to assess the relation between traditional semen parameters, SDF, and unexplained RM. Our results showed that couples with unexplained RM had significantly increased levels of SDF (WMD=8.77, 95% CI=4.03 to 13.51, P<0.001) and significantly decreased levels of progressive motility (WMD=-4.75, 95% CI=-8.35 to -1.15, P<0.05) and total motility (WMD=-10.30, 95% CI=-15.03 to -5.57, P<0.05) than those of couples without RM, but not significantly different in volume (WMD=-0.12, 95% CI=-0.32 to 0.08, P>0.05), sperm concentration (WMD=-2.28, 95% CI=-4.58 to 0.02, P>0.05) and total sperm count (WMD=-10.73, 95% CI=-22.11 to 0.66, P>0.05) between couples with and without RM.Conclusion: Couples with unexplained RM had significantly increased levels of SDF and significantly decreased levels of progressive motility and total motility than those of couples without RM. SDF assay may be considered as part of the evaluation of couples with unexplained RM.
Factors Associated With Maternal Overall Quality of Life Six Months Postpartum
Authors: Valla Lisbeth , Helseth Sølvi , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Misvær Nina , Andenæs Randi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Having good Quality of Life (QoL) is essential, particularly for women after childbirth. However, little is known about the factors associated with maternal QoL after giving birth. We aimed to investigate the relationship between characteristics of the mother (socio-demographic variables), selected symptoms (depression and joy/anger), health perception (perception of birth) and possible characteristics of the environment (infant temperament, colic, sleep, parental relationship), with mothers’ overall quality of life when the child is six months of age.Methods: This study is based on the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), conducted at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health from June 1999 to December 2008, which included a total of 86,724 children. Maternal QoL was assessed by the Satisfaction With Life Scale. Joy and anger were measured using the Differential Emotional Scale, mothers’ mental health was assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and satisfaction with relationship was measured using the Relationship Satisfaction Scale. Child temperament was measured using the Infant Characteristics Questionnaire and colic, sleep duration and feelings related to childbirth were assessed by mothers’ reports. The associations between life satisfaction and selected variables were analysed using stepwise multiple linear regression models.Results: Maternal feelings of joy of having a baby (B=0.35, CI [0.79 to 0.83]), high relationship satisfaction (B= 0.02, CI [0.28 to 0.60]), as well as having a baby with normal sleep (B=0.32, CI [0.21 to 0.22]), are factors associated with higher maternal overall QoL. Postnatal depression was negatively associated with mothers’ QoL, and infant colic or child’s temperament (fussiness) showed no such association with mothers’ QoL.Conclusions: Health professionals and clinicians should focus on these issues when they develop health interventions or provide counselling to new mothers and their families.
Tocilizumab (TCZ) Decreases Angiogenesis in Rheumatoid Arthritis through its Regulatory Effect on miR-146a-5p and EMMPRIN/CD147
Authors: Zisman Devy , Safieh Mirna , Simanovich Elina , Feld Joy , Kinarty Amalia , Zisman Liron , Gazitt Tal , Haddad Amir , Elias Muna , Rosner Itzhak , Kaly Lisa , Rahat Michal A. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
BackgroundAngiogenesis is an important contributor to the development of Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Tocilizumab (TCZ), an anti-IL-6 receptor antibody, is used in the treatment of RA patients, and has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory effects. However, its effects on angiogenesis are not fully elucidated, and the molecular mechanisms regulating this effect are unknown. MethodsWe evaluated the concentrations of several pro- and anti-angiogenic factors and the expression levels of several microRNA molecules that are associated with RA and angiogenesis in serum samples obtained from 40 RA patients, before and 4 months after the initiation of TCZ treatment. Additionally, we used an in vitro co-culture system of fibroblasts (the HT1080 cell line) and monocytes (the U937 cell line) to explore the mechanisms of TCZ action. ResultsSerum samples from RA patients treated with TCZ exhibited reduced levels of EMMPRIN/CD147, enhanced expression of miR-146a-5p and miR-150-5p, and reduced angiogenesis as was manifested by the reduced number of tube-like structures formed by EaHy926 endothelial cell line. In vitro, the accumulation of the pro-angiogenic factors EMMRPIN, VEGF and MMP-9 in the supernatants was increased by co-culturing the HT1080 fibroblasts and the U937 monocytes, while the accumulation of the anti-angiogenic factor thrombospondin-1 (Tsp-1) and the expression levels of miR-146a-5p were reduced. Transfection of HT1080 cells with the miR-146a-5p mimic, decreased the accumulation of EMMPRIN, VEGF and MMP-9. When EMMPRIN was neutralized with a blocking antibody, supernatants derived from these co-cultures exhibited reduced migration, proliferation and tube formation in functional assays. ConclusionsOur findings implicate miR-146a-5p in the regulation of EMMPRIN and propose that TCZ affects angiogenesis through its effects on EMMRPIN and miR-146a-5p.
Lipoxin A4 Attenuates the Lung Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Rats After Lung Transplantation
Authors: Zhang Li-juan , Tai Qi-hang , Xu Guang-xiao , Gao Wei 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Objective: Lung ischemia reperfusion injury (LIRI) is the major cause of primary lung dysfunction after lung transplantation. Lipoxin A4 inhibits the oxidative stress and inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effect of lipoxin A4 on LIRI in rats.Methods: SD rats were randomized into the sham, LIRI and LA4 groups. Rats in the sham group received anesthesia, thoracotomy and intravenous injection of saline, while those in the LIRI or LA4 group received left lung transplantation and intravenous injection of saline or lipoxin A4, respectively. After 24 hours of reperfusion, the PaO2/FiO2, wet/dry weight ratios and protein levels in lungs were measured to assess the alveolar capillary permeability. The oxidative stress response and inflammation were examined. The histological and apoptosis analyses of lung tissues were performed via HE staining and TUNEL assay, respectively. The effects of lipoxin A4 on the endothelial viability and tube formation of hypoxemia and reoxygenation-challenged rat pulmonary microvascular endothelium cells were determined.Results: Lipoxin A4 significantly ameliorated the alveolar capillary permeability, reduced the oxidative stress and inflammation in transplanted lungs. The histological injury and apoptosis of lung tissues were also alleviated by lipoxin A4. In vitro lipoxin A4 treatment promoted the endothelial tube formation and improved the endothelial viability .Conclusion: Lipoxin A4 protects LIRI after lung transplantation in rats, and its therapeutic effect is associated with the properties of anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and endothelium protection.
The HMGB1-RAGE Pathway Contributes to Abnormal Migration of Endogenous Subventricular Zone Neural Progenitors in an Experimental Model of Focal Microgyria
Authors: Mei Yi-Wen , Huang Tian-Lan , Chen Xin , Yu Si-Xun , Li Jie , Zhang Zhi , He Yang , Guo Da-qing , Shu Haifeng 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Abnormal migration of subventricular zone (SVZ)-derived neural progenitor cells (SDNPs) is involved in the pathological and epileptic processes of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), but the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Recent studies have indicated that high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)/receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is widely expressed in epileptic specimens of FCD, suggesting that the HMGB1-RAGE pathway may be involved in the pathological and/or epileptic processes of FCD. In the present study, by using Nestin-GFPtg/+ transgenic mice, we established a model of freezing lesion (FL), as described in our previous report. A “migrating stream”, which was composed of GFP-Nestin+ SDNPs, was derived from the SVZ region and migrated to the cortical FL area. We found that translocated HMGB1 and RAGE were expressed in cortical lesion in a clustered distribution pattern, which was especially obvious in the early stage of FL compared with the sham group. Interestingly, the number of GFP-Nestin+ SDNPs within the migrating stream was significantly decreased when the HMGB1-RAGE pathway was blocked by an antagonist of RAGE or deletion of the RAGE gene. Moreover, the absence of RAGE also decreased the activity of pentylenetetrazol-induced cortical epileptiform discharge. In summary, this study provided experimental evidence that in the early stage of FL, the levels of extranuclear HMGB1 and its receptor RAGE were increased in cortical lesion in the FL model. Activation of the HMGB1-RAGE pathway may contribute to the abnormal migration of SDNPs and the hyperexcitability of cortical lesion in the FL model.
Parents’ awareness and perceptions of the Change4Life 100 calorie snack campaign, and perceived impact on snack consumption by children under 11 years
Authors: Day Rhiannon , Bridge Gemma , Austin Kate , Ensaff Hannah , Christian Meaghan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Childhood obesity is a pertinent public health problem in the UK. Consumption of free sugars, has been associated with the development of obesity. In 2018, the Change 4Life (C4L) 100 calorie snack campaign was launched with the slogan ‘100 calorie snacks, two a day max’, aiming to encourage parents to choose lower sugar, fat and calorie snacks for their children. This study aimed to examine how the campaign has been perceived by parents. Methods: An online survey was developed to explore parent awareness, perceptions and understanding of the C4L 100 calorie snack campaign. Respondents were recruited via Leeds City Council, posters displayed at primary schools and children’s centres across Leeds and via social media. Paper surveys were also shared with voluntary led playgroups. Results: 342 respondents completed the survey. Just over half of the respondents had come across the campaign, most seeing the leaflet or a television advert. Over two thirds of respondents ‘agreed’ or ‘strongly agreed’ that the campaign caught their attention. A similar proportion ‘agreed’ or ‘strongly agreed’ that the campaign informed them about 100 calorie snacks and just over a half thought it was memorable. Most respondents used positive language to describe the campaign, but there was no clear consensus of a perceived positive impact on healthier snack purchasing, nor preparing more 100 calorie snacks at home. Respondents provided examples of how the campaign could be improved to positively impact eating behaviours: better publicity and information delivery; healthier snack examples made more visible; improved nutritional labelling and access to healthier products in supermarkets (availability, promotion, display, choice). Conclusions: The C4L 100 calorie snack campaign was perceived positively by parents and carers, with many agreeing that the campaign was informative and memorable. However, there was no agreement in terms of the parents reporting an impact of the campaign on behaviour change and healthier snack habits. Future social marketing campaigns could be improved through more formal pilot testing to assess the understanding and acceptance of the campaign amongst the target audience.