bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Normalization Strategy for Selection of Reference Genes for RT-qPCR Analysis in Left Ventricles of Failing Human Hearts
Authors: Červenák Zdenko , Červenák Filip , Adamičková Adriana , Šalingová Barbara , Gažová Andrea , Kyselovič Ján 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Introduction: Quantitative RT-PCR is a valuable tool for assessing the gene expression in different human tissues, particularly due to its exceptional sensitivity, accuracy and reliability. However, the choice of adequate control for normalization is a crucial step, greatly affecting the results of all subsequent analyses. So far, only a few studies were focused on the selection of optimal reference genes in left ventricles of failing human hearts, leading to several disparities in experimental results focused on differential gene expression in this area. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to identify a set of suitable reference genes in normal and failing left ventricle tissues, which could increase the reliability of RT-qPCR-based studies in the future. Methods: We analyzed the expression of 15 commonly used housekeeping genes (ACTB, B2M, GAPDH, GUSB, HMBS, HPRT1, IPO8, PGK1, POLR2A, PPIA, RPLP0, TBP, TFRC, UBC and YWHAZ) in left ventricles of normal and failed hearts with two-step approach. In the first step, we excluded genes which are variantly expressed using ANOVA-based statistical method. Afterwards, the remaining genes were analyzed using geNorm, NormFinder and BestKeeper algorithms, together with comparative delta Cq method. Finally, the geometric mean of gene rankings across all five methods was calculated.Results: Our analysis identified IPO8, PGK1 and POLR2A as the most stably expressed genes, whereas ACB2 and B2M were found to be expressed variantly, suggesting a potential role of these genes in the pathophysiological processes in failing human hearts.Discussion/Conclusion: Using our two-step approach, we identified and validated three reference genes expressed invariantly in left ventricles of both healthy and failing human hearts, as well as provided a guideline for the selection of reference genes in studies comparing gene expression in these types of tissues.
Co-Designing a Behavioural Intervention for Reducing the Impact of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms: An Evidence- and Theory-Driven Approach
Authors: Tanay Mary Anne Lagmay , Armes Jo , Oakley Catherine , Bryson Liz , Johnston Robin , Moss-Morris Rona , Rafferty Anne Marie , Roca Jose , Sage Lesley , Tanner Deb , Urwin Lauren , Wyatt Toni , Robert Glenn 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
PurposeThe processes and mechanisms of action which explain how behavioural interventions for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) work or not are unclear. We describe a co-design process for developing an evidence and theory-based behavioural intervention to reduce the impact of CIPN symptoms on patients’ quality of life.Methods Guided by the Medical Research Council Framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions, our process of intervention development was informed by: (a) findings of systematic reviews, (b) inductive analysis of thirty-nine hours of observational fieldwork, twelve patient and eleven clinician interviews, (c) deductive analysis using the Common-Sense Self-Regulation Model and (d) fifteen patients and twenty clinicians being actively involved as co-designers. ResultsCIPN perception and coping behaviours (including, for example, self-monitoring of symptoms and engaging in self-management and safety strategies to reduce impact of CIPN symptoms) were highlighted as processes to target when co-designing an intervention. To address these behaviours, a psychoeducational approach was deemed suitable. Four behavioural change techniques informed the co-design of the intervention: (a) information about health consequences, (b) salience of consequences, (c) instruction on how to perform a behaviour and (d) action planning.ConclusionCurrent behavioural interventions for CIPN have rarely involved stakeholders, e.g. patients and clinicians, in their development process. We developed a logic model for documenting the proposed mechanism of action of our co-designed intervention for reducing impact of CIPN symptoms. This model will be refined and tested in a subsequent process evaluation as part of a feasibility trial of the intervention.
Deep Whole Genome Sequencing Identifies Recurrent Genomic Alterations in Commonly-Used Breast Cancer Cell Lines and Patient Derived Xenograft Models
Authors: Deng Niantao , Minoche Andre , Harvey Kate , Li Meng , Winkler Juliane , Goga Andrei , Swarbrick Alex 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Breast cancer cell lines (BCCLs) and patient-derived xenografts (PDX) are the most frequently used models in breast cancer research. Despite their widespread usage, genome sequencing of these models is incomplete, with previous studies only focusing on targeted gene panels, whole exome or shallow whole genome sequencing. Deep whole genome sequencing is the most sensitive and accurate method to detect single nucleotide variants and indels, gene copy number and structural events such as gene fusions.Results: Here we describe deep whole genome sequencing (WGS) of commonly used BCCL and PDX models using the Illumina X10 platform with an average ~ 60x coverage. We identify novel genomic alterations, including point mutations and genomic rearrangements at base-pair resolution, compared to previously available sequencing data. Through integrative analysis with publicly available functional screening data, we annotate new genomic features likely to be of biological significance. CSMD1, previously identified as a tumor suppressor gene in various cancer types, including head and neck, lung and breast cancers, has been identified with deletion in 50% of our PDX models, suggesting an important role in aggressive breast cancers. Conclusions: Our WGS data provides a comprehensive genome sequencing resource of these models.
External Cephalic Version Success Rate and Associated Factors: Experience from a Tertiary Center in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Fessehaye Abraham , Gudu Wondimu , Urgie Tadesse , Masresha Gebeyehu 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: External cephalic version (ECV), which is now routinely offered in developed countries, is not a popular procedure in the developing regions, such as Sub-Saharan Africa (9). There is also scarce data on success rate of ECV from this developing region of Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the success rate of ECV and it’s associated factors in an Ethiopian setting.Methods: A total of 152 ECVs performed at the St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from June 1, 2018 up to March 30, 2019 were analyzed, using a cross-sectional study design. Patients with breech presentation were recruited at 36 weeks of gestation or more during antenatal consultations and ECV procedures were provided by Maternal-Fetal-Medicine (MFM) specialist or MFM fellow at Ultrasound room. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. Chi-square test of association was done for categorical data analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of success of ECV. Odds ratio, 95% CI, and P-value were used to describe findings’ significanceResults: The success rate of ECV was 71.7%. Multiparous women had a 1.4-times higher probability of success than nulliparous women (95% CI, 0.07-2.35); thin abdominal wall had 3.5 fold increased success rate ( 95% CI, 0.29-42.40) ; unengaged breech had a 1.1 higher probably of success than engaged(95% CI, 0.26-4.74); a posterior placental location increased the success rate by 1.14 times compared with an anterior placenta (95% CI, 1.03–2.60); the odds of successful ECV was 14.68((95% CI, 1.65–34.97) when cases experienced no pain during the procedure ; and tense uterine tone was associated a lower success rate as compared to soft tone (AOR= 0.08 ,95% CI, 0.016—0.39). Eighty-four percent of those mothers who had successful ECV had spontaneous vertex vaginal delivery.Conclusion: The success rate of ECV in this study is found to be 71.7%, which is higher than reports from previous studies. Multiparty, absence of pain during procedure, posterior placenta, unengaged breech, soft uterine tone, and thin abdominal wall were significantly associated with ECV success.Précis: The success rate of ECV in this study is found to be 71.7%, which is higher than reports from previous studies.
Identification of the Pyroptosis-related Signature for Predicting Prognosis in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Zhou Cankun , Li Chaomei , Zheng Yuhua , Liu Xiaochun 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most common malignancies in gynecology. There is still a lack of specific biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of CC. Pyroptosis is one of the methods of programmed cell death, and its various components are related to the occurrence, invasion, and metastasis of tumors. However, the role of pyroptosis in CC has not yet been elucidated.Methods: This study focuses on the development of a prognostic signature associated with pyroptosis for CC patients using integrated bioinformatics to elucidate the relationship between the signature and the tumor microenvironment and immune response.Results: We identified a prognostic signature based on eight pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs), with better prognostic survival in the low-risk group (P<0.05) and AUC values greater than 0.7. The results of the multi-factor Cox regression analysis indicated that the signature could be used as an independent prognostic factor, and both the DCA and the Nomogram suggested that the prognostic signature had good predictive power. Interestingly, this prognostic signature can also be applied to multiple tumors. In addition, the tumor microenvironment and immune infiltration status were significantly different between high and low-risk groups (P<0. 05). The core gene GZMB was screened and the CC-associated GZMB/ miR-378a/TRIM52-AS1 regulatory axis was constructed.Conclusion: The study successfully established the prognostic signature based on eight PRGs and reflected their tumor microenvironment and immune infiltration. The GZMB/ miR-378a/TRIM52-AS1 regulatory axis may play an important regulatory role in the development of CC, and further experimental studies are needed to validate these results subsequently.
Gamified Medical Terminology Learning Through Chatbot-Based Crossword Puzzles: the Termbot
Authors: Hsu Mei-Hua , Yu Chi-Shun 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Medical terminology is usually difficult for students to memorize such long and unfamiliar sound words. It really makes challenging for healthcare students. Ordinarily, there’re a variety of ways to learn medical terminology such as memorizing root words or making flashcards. However, students often get half the results with double the effort. Methods: In order to help students learn medical terminology more easily and interestingly, an online chatbot, Termbot, has been produced in this research that aims to provide learners with an interesting method to enhance their medical terminology by using Termbot on the online platform ©LINE at any time. Compared to traditional independent learning with online interactive learning, the Termbot is a great tool for students in memorizing English medical terminology by playing the Termbot online crossword puzzles. In this study, the experimental method is used to check whether Termbot affects students’ academic performance in learning medical terminology. Also, the experimental samples are divided into the experimental group and the control group. As the name implies, the experimental group is the group that accepts experimental operations, while the control group does not accept any experimental operations so that the researcher could compare the differences between the two groups to show the results of the experimental operations.Results: The interaction between students and Termbot via Line, students can use the online crossword puzzles provided by Termbot to help improve their learning of medical terminology. The experimental result in this study has shown that students trained with Termbot have made significant progress in learning such long medical term words. In addition, the result has also shown that the online Termbot has the potential to improve the learning process and learning outcomes.Conclusions: As students change their learning behaviors, the use of Termbot has improved their learning effectiveness, which clearly proves that it is a very useful learning tool. Without a doubt, Termbot is not only a great help for students’ learning medical terminology but can also be used to assist word learning in other fields.Trial registration: Not applicable.
A Large Sample Epidemiological Survey of Severe Mental Disorders: Current Status and Prospects
Authors: Fuhao Zheng , Lin Yawen , Wei Qingfei , Zeng Zhaonan , Xiong Duanhua , Wu Siying 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Objective: To investigate the prevalence, distribution characteristics, medication status, and management status of patients with severe mental disorders (SMD) in Fuzhou. The medication status and management status were compared between patients in urban and non-urban areas to provide scientific evidence for improving SMD prevention, control, and treatment in primary health care institutions. Methods: Data (case types, demographic data, distribution data, medication status, and management status, etc.) of 30,362 SMD patients in 12 districts, counties, and prefectures in the urban and non-urban areas of Fuzhou City were collected From March 2018 to September 2018. Three distributions were used to describe the epidemiological characteristics of SMD. Linear trend chi-square test was used to illustrate the relationship between the prevalence of SMD and monthly changes. χ2 test method was used to compare the severity in urban and non-urban areas (qualitative data of SMD patients). Results: A total of 30,362 registered SMD patients were identified in Fuzhou City (prevalence rate, 4.17‰), of which schizophrenia accounted for the highest number (26204, 86.31%), and paranoid psychosis had the least number (47, 0.15%). Moreover, most SMD patients were aged 18 (inclusive)-44 years old (45.38%). Most patients were farmers (30.23%), had a primary school and below education level (54.17%), were poor, with most below the poverty line standard (55.35%). The time-point prevalence of SMD was highest in Minqing County (5.29‰) and lowest in Mawei District (3.80‰). The prevalence rates of SMD were significantly different among various regions in Fuzhou (P<0.05). There was a linear trend between the month and SMD prevalence, with a statistically significant difference (P<0.05). A total of 22,989 (75.72%) of the patients were taking medications, and only 17,509 (57.67%) were taking medications regularly. Moreover, the rate of taking medications and regular-taking rates were higher in urban areas than in non-urban areas (P＜0.05). A total of 3065 patients were under management (10.09%). The management rate was higher in the urban areas than in the non-urban areas (P<0.05). Conclusion: Schizophrenia needs comprehensive prevention and control in Fuzhou. The management of severe mental disorders should focus on poor groups with low educational backgrounds. Drug usage and management are better in urban areas than in non-urban areas, and thus management should be enhanced in non-urban areas. The medication management and case management of patients with severe mental disorders in Fuzhou need further improvements.
Prompting With Checklist for Early Recognition and Treatment of Acute Illness On The Prevention of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients With Septic Shock
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Li Jing , Wang Yongqiang , Dou Lin , Gao Hongmei 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Early identification of septic patients at high risk for acute kidney injury (AKI), followed by timely and appropriate interventions, is crucial for improving patients’ outcomes. Checklist for Early Recognition and Treatment of Acute Illness (CERTAIN) is a tool for evaluating and treating acute illness promptly based on best practices. We hypothesized that the use of CERTAIN would prevent the occurrence of AKI after septic shock. Methods: This was a before-and-after study. CERTAIN, included the care bundles recommended in the Sepsis 3.0 and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) 2012 guidelines, used in daily practice to manage patients with septic shock. The primary outcome was the incidence of AKI within 72 hours in patients with septic shock. Secondary outcomes were mortality and major adverse kidney events (MAKEs) at 90 days after exposure to AKI. Results: 124 patients had been treated with CERTAIN, and 112 patients were in the Pre-CERTAIN group. AKI reduced significantly in the Post-CERTAIN group compared to the Pre-CERTAIN group within 72h after enrollment (55.7% vs 68.8%, P=0.045). CERTAIN prolonged ventilator-free days and vasoactive agents free days at 28 days (22 vs 17, P<0.001; 23 vs 19, P=0.044; respectively). The mortality and MAKEs at 90 days were reduced in the Post-CERTAIN group compared to the Pre-CERTAIN group (17.7% vs 29.5%, P=0.045; 41.9% vs 56.3%, P=0.039; respectively). Conclusions: Implementation of CERTAIN reduced the AKI frequency, mortality at 90 days, and the rate of MAKEs at 90 days in septic shock patients. Trial registration: NCT01973829. Date of registration: 1st November 2013.
Trade-offs Between Succulent and Non-succulent Epiphytes Underlie Variation in Drought Tolerance and Avoidance
Authors: Gotsch Sybil , Williams Cameron B , Bicaba Renee , Hoyos Roxanne Cruz-de , Darby Alexander , Davidson Kenneth , Dix Mackenzie J , Duarte Vanessa , Glunk Andrew C , Green Laura , Ferguson Briana , Munoz-Elizondo Keylor , Murray Jessica G , Picado-Fallas Ignacio , Naesborg Rikke , Dawson Todd E , Nadkarni Nalini 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Epiphyte communities comprise important components of many forest ecosystems in terms of biomass and diversity, but little is known regarding trade-offs that underlie diversity and structure in these communities or the impact that microclimate has on epiphyte trait allocation. We measured 22 functional traits in vascular epiphyte communities across six sites that span a microclimatic gradient in a tropical montane cloud forest region in Costa Rica. We quantified traits that relate to carbon and nitrogen allocation, gas exchange, water storage, and drought tolerance. Functional diversity was high in all but the lowest elevation site where drought likely limits the success of certain species with particular trait combinations. For most traits, variation was explained by relationships with other traits (trait co-variance), rather than differences in microclimate across sites. Although there were significant differences in microclimate, epiphyte abundance, and diversity, we found substantial overlap in multivariate trait space across five of the sites. We found significant correlations between functional traits, many of which related to water storage, drought tolerance, and carbon allocation. This suite of trait correlations suggests that the epiphyte community has evolved functional strategies along a drought avoidance versus drought tolerance continuum where leaf succulence emerged as a pivotal overall trait.
Suppression of Deflagration Flame Propagation of Methane-Air in Tube By Argon Gas and Explosion-Eliminating Chamber
Authors: Wang Quan , Xu Xiaomeng , Chang Weida , Li Zhimin , Zhang Jun , Li Rui 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
To explore the inhibitory effect of argon gas and explosion-eliminating chamber on methane-air deflagration flame propagation in the tube, based on the Φ=120 mm, L=5.5 m stainless steel pipeline test system to measure methane-air deflagration flame structure, flame propagation speed, and deflagration pressure. The results show that: 10%~30% argon is mixed into the methane-air premixed gas with different equivalent ratios. With the increase in the mixed argon content, the tensile distortion and instability of the flame front increase, and the average value of flame propagation speed decreases by 2.52%~60.0%. The first and second deflagration pressure peaks are reduced by about 13.1%~62% and 17.7%~86.5% respectively. The average value of the methane-air deflagration flame propagation velocity was reduced by 5.7%~37.0% with the explosion-eliminating chamber laid at the nozzle. The second and third deflagration pressure peaks are reduced by about 10%~30% and 50%~90% respectively. The inhibitory effect of argon on the propagation of methane-air flame is considered better than the laying of the explosion-eliminating chamber under the experimental conditions.
C1q/TNF-Related Protein 3 Prevents Diabetic Retinopathy via AMPK Dependent Stabilization of Blood-Retinal Barrier Tight Junctions
Authors: Yan Zheyi , Wang Chunfang , Meng Zhijun , Gan Lu , Guo Rui , Liu Jing , Lau Wayne Bond , Xie Dina , Zhao Jianli , Lopez Bernard L , Christopher Theodore A , Naik Ulhas P. , Wang Yajing , Ma Xinliang 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background
The impairment of the inner blood-retinal barrier (iBRB) increases the pathological development of diabetic retinopathy (DR), a severe complication in diabetic patients. Identifying approaches to preserving iBRB integrity and function is a major challenge in DR. C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related proteins-3 (CTRP3) is a newly discovered adipokine and an important biomarker predicting DR severity. We sought to determine whether and how CTRP3 affects the pathological development of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR).
Methods
To clarify the pathophysiologic progress of the blood-retinal barrier in NPDR and explore its potential mechanism, a mouse type 2 diabetic model of diabetic retinopathy was used. The capillary leakage was assessed by confocal microscope with fluorescent-labeled protein in vivo. Furthermore, the effect of CTRP3 on the inner blood-retinal barrier (iBRB) and its molecular mechanism was clarified.
Results
The results demonstrated that CTRP3 protects iBRB integrity and resists the vascular permeability induced by DR. Mechanistically, the administration of CTRP3 activates AMPK signaling pathway and enhances the expression of Occludin and Claudin-5 (tight junction protein) in vivo and in vitro. Meanwhile, CTRP3 improves the injury of human retinal endothelial cells (HRMECs) induced by high glucose/high lipids (HG/HL) and its protective effects are AMPK dependent.
Conclusions
In summary, we report for the first time that CTRP3 prevents diabetes-induced retinal vascular permeability via stabilizing the tight junctions of the iBRB and AMPK-dependent Occludin/Claudin-5 signaling pathway, thus critically affecting the development of NPDR.