bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Relationship Between TC/HDL-c and Disease Activity in Axial Spondyloarthritis Patients
Authors: Sun Shanmiao , Huang Yukai , Huang Qidang , Liu Meng , Feng Fan , Ji Zhuyi , Huang Lixin , Deng Weiming , Li Tian-wang 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Objectives: The study aims to determine the clinical significance of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), TC/HDL-c, TG/HDL-c, and LDL-c/ HDL-c in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) patients.Methods: Two hundred and five axSpA patients and 71 healthy subjects were enrolled. AxSpA patients were further divided into remission group and active group. The laboratory data were collected. Spearman’s correlation, receiver operation characteristic (ROC) curves, and binary logistic regression analysis were conducted.Results: TC, TG, LDL-c and HDL-c were lower in axSpA group, while LDL-c/HDL-c was higher (P<0.05). ROC curves results revealed that the AUC value of HDL-c for axSpA was 0.752 (CI95%: 0.693-0.811), yielding the highest AUC value. HDL-c was negatively correlated with BASDAI, CRP, and ESR (P<0.05). TC/HDL-c was positively correlated with BASDAI, BASFI, CRP, and ESR (P<0.05). Besides, TC/HDL-c, CRP, and ESR in axSpA of active group were higher than those in remission group, while HDL-c was lower (P<0.05). ROC curves results showed that the AUC value of TC/HDL-c and CRP for axSpA of active group were 0.616 (CI95%: 0.539-0.694) and 0.632 (CI95%: 0.554-0.710), yielding higher AUC value than other parameters. The optimal cutoff value of TC/HDL-c for axSpA of active group was 4.218, with a Youden index of 0.195, a sensitivity of 50.6%, and a specificity of 68.9%. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that TC/HDL-c was an independent indicator for axSpA disease activity.Conclusions: TC/HDL-c was elevated in axSpA of active group, yielding a high diagnostic value and showing a positively correlation with the disease activity of axSpA. TC/HDL-c may be a novel and reliable indicator for axSpA disease activity.
A Retrospective Analysis of Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Treated by Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy Combined With Surgery
Authors: Li Fei , Zhang Chi , Xu Liping , Zhang Sheng , Zhang Dongsheng , Leng Yan , Wu Chenjiang , Chen Jiayan , Sun Xinchen 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
PurposeNeoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) has been recommended as a standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer. In our study, we retrospectively analyzed the oncological outcomes of patients with stage II-III rectal cancer who were treated in our department.Patients and MethodsDuring March 2014 to June 2020, total 139 patients were retrospectively reviewed, of whom 121 were analyzable. All of our enrolled patients with stage II to III rectal cancer were treated with nCRT with a capecitabine-based regimen, total mesorectal excision surgery, and an adjuvant capecitabine-based chemotherapy regimen. We examined the pathologic complete response (pCR) rate after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, 3-year overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS) and investigated adverse factors related to the survival of this group of patients. We used the Kaplane-Meier method and Cox modeling to estimate and compare survival in our populations.ResultsWith a median follow-up of 36 months, overall survival at 3 years was 83.2%, and disease-free survival at 3 years was 74.4% in this arm. After multivariate adjustment, ypTNM stage(TNM stage after neoadjuvant therapy) was significantly associated with disease-free survival (DFS). A positive circumferential resection margin (CRM) status on MRI and ypTNM stage were significantly related to a worse overall survival (OS). Among the 121 patients, 24 achieved a pCR (19.8%); two patients did not complete radiation therapy. Eighteen patients died due to a cancer-related cause.ConclusionThe oncological outcomes of nCRT at our institution are comparable with those of other clinical studies on rectal cancer in which patients were treated with neoadjuvant therapy. Among the 121 patients, 24 had a pCR (19.8%). ypTNM stage was significantly associated with DFS; CRM status and ypTNM stage were were significantly related to overall survival (OS) after multivariate analysis.
Relationship between Semen NAD+ Concentration and Reproductive Aging in Normazoospermia Men: A Cohort Study
Authors: Bai Xueyan , Wang Peng 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe mechanisms of age-dependent reproductive decline in men are largely overlooked. Age-dependent reduction of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels has been reported in multiple somatic and female reproductive tissues, including oocytes and ovarian tissue. However, the relationship between NAD+ levels and male zygote has not been studied yet. In the current study, the association between semen NAD+ levels and paternal age will be investigated. Besides, we will also answer if semen NAD+ levels are related to semen quality.MethodsIn this pilot observatory cohort study, semen samples of a total of 51 male subjects who visited a university-affiliated reproductive medical center for preconception consultation (<30 years: n=13, 30-40 years: n=19, >40 years: n=19) were recruited. Anthropometric characteristics were recorded, and semen analysis was performed. Sperm NAD+ levels were evaluated spectrophotometrically.ResultsBetween the three age groups, there was on significant difference in major parameters of semen quality. Semen NAD+ level was also similar between the three groups (<30 years: 91.61±15.59 nmol/106 sperm, 30-40 years: 125.60±16.28 nmol/106 sperm, >40 years:115.59±16.55 nmol/106 sperm). Additionally, linear aggression also revealed no correlation between semen NAD+ concentration and the age of the participants (r2=0.018, p=0.35). Noticeably, negative correlation was found between semen NAD+ concentrations and sperm quality parameters, including sperm concentration (r2=0.78 p<0.0001), sperm count (r2=0.47. p<0.0001.), mobile sperm number (r2=33. P<0.0001), and DFI (r2=0.35 p<0.0001). As for semen volume and mobility rate, these two parameters were not related to semen NAD+ concentration.ConclusionsUnlike decreased NAD+ levels in aged oocytes and ovarian tissue, semen NAD+ concentration is not age-dependent. Semen NAD+ level negatively correlates with sperm quality, suggesting the unique role of NAD+ in spermatogenesis, which warrants further study and opens opportunities for pharmaceutical interventions of oligospermia.
Heterochrony and Repurposing in the Evolution of Gymnosperm Seed Dispersal Units
Authors: Martin Juca A. B. San , Pozner Raúl Ernesto , Stilio Verónica S. Di 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Plant dispersal units, or diaspores, allow the colonization of new environments, expanding geographic range and promoting gene flow. Two broad categories of diaspores found in seed plants are dry and fleshy, in connection to abiotic and biotic dispersal agents, respectively. Our understanding of the anatomical and developmental genetics of fleshy angiosperm fruits is fairly advanced, yet there is a knowledge gap for the analogous fleshy structures found in gymnosperm diaspores. Improved understanding of the structural basis of modified accessory organs that aid in seed dispersal will not only inform the evolution of this important trait in specific lineages but will also enable future work on the underlying genetics, contributing to hypotheses on the origin of angiosperm fruits.To generate a structural framework for the development and evolution of gymnosperm fleshy diaspores, we studied the anatomy and histochemistry of Ephedra (Gnetales) seed cone bracts, the modified leaves surrounding the reproductive organs. We took an ontogenetic approach, comparing and contrasting the anatomy and histology of fleshy and papery-winged seed cone bracts in four closely related species in the South American clade, their pollen cone bracts, and leaves. Results: Seed bract fleshiness in Ephedra derives from mucilage accumulated in chlorenchyma cells, also found in their reduced young leaves before they reach their mature, dry stage. Cellulosic fibers, an infrequent cell type in gymnosperms, were found in leaves and most bracts where they presumably function as a source of supplementary apoplastic water in fleshy seed cone bracts. Papery bract development more closely resembles that of leaves, which lack mucilage in this species, with further extension of hyaline margins into “wings”.Conclusions: We propose an evolutionary developmental model whereby fleshy seed cone bracts result from a novel differentiation program repurposed from anatomical elements and compounds present in young leaves, whereas papery bracts derive from an extension of the mature leaf program. This model for the evolution of cone bract morphology in South American Ephedra hence involves changes in the timing of leaf differentiation, or heterochrony, that can further be tested in other gymnosperms with fleshy diaspores.
The Risk of HCC in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B is Increased by Concomitant Presence of MAFLD but not NAFLD
Authors: Huang Jiaofeng , Wang Mingfang , Wu Yinlian , Jiang Jiaji , Zhu Yueyong , Kumar Rahul , Lin Su 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Chronic Hepatitis B virus infection (CHB) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are both independent risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Current literature suggests the concomitance of CHB and NAFLD do not increase the risk of HCC. The risk of HCC in patients with concomitant CHB and metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is unclear. Methods: CHB patients who underwent liver biopsy from 2005 to 2015 were retrospectively recruited and followed up till March 2020. Cox hazard ratio analysis was used to investigate the risk of HCC.Results: A total of 529 patients were included. MAFLD was diagnosed in 184 (34.78%) and NAFLD in 250 (47.26%) patients. The median follow-up duration was 6.33 years. In the entire cohort, 9 (1.7%) patients developed HCC. The prevalence of MAFLD was significantly higher in HCC group than non-HCC group (77.8% vs. 34.04%, p=0.010), while of the prevalence of NAFLD was not statistically significant (46.73% vs. 77.78%, p=0.092). The presence of MAFLD (HR=6.434; 95%CI: 1.252-33.060) was an independent risk factor for HCC in CHB patients while NAFLD was not. Significantly higher rate of HCC was found in patients with metabolic conditions than those without (2.83% vs. 0.41%, P=0.043), but not in the comparison between steatosis and non-steatosis (2.77% vs. 0.72%, P=0.094). Conclusion: Presence of MAFLD is independently associated with the risk of HCC development in patients with CHB. Between MAFLD and NAFLD, MAFLD will serve these patients better for risk stratification as far as development of HCC is concerned.
Effects of The Prolong Life With Nine Turn Method (Yan Nian Jiu Zhuan) Qigong On Brain Functional Changes in Patients With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Terms of Fatigue and Quality of Life
Authors: Xie Fangfang , Cheng Ziji , Gu Yuanjia , Chen Ziying , Xie Chaoqun , Yao Fei , You Yanli 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterized by persistent fatigue, which often leads to physical and psychological damage. The prolong life with nine turn method (PLWNT) Qigong is considered one of the complementary treatments for improving symptoms in patients with CFS. However, the neurophysiological relevance of these effects remains poorly understood. In this study, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study the effects of PLWNT intervention on the neural circuits in subjects with CFS.Methods: Thirty four CFS patients were randomly divided into a PLWNT group (who received Qigong exercises) and a control group (who received cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT). Both groups were taught by a highly qualified professor at the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine once a week and were supervised online during the remaining 6 days at home, over 12 consecutive weeks. We calculated the regional rs-fMRI index ALFF for all subjects. To study the changes of the brain network, we used the brain regions with significant differences in ALFF as the regions of interest for whole-brain FC analysis. The MFI-20 and SF-36 were used for clinical symptom assessment to explore the possible correlation between the rs-fMRI indicators and clinical variations.Results: The ALFF values of the right superior frontal gyrus (SFG), and left median cingulate gyrus (DCG) were increased, whereas those of the left middle occipital gyrus (OG), right middle OG and left middle temporal gyrus (MTG) were decreased in CFS patients. The FC values between the DCG and middle temporal gyrus (MTG), and those between the left OG and the right OG were enhanced. In addition, the SF-36 were positively with the left OG (r=0.542), SFG(r=0.517) and DCG(r=0.533), MFI-20 were negatively with the left OG (r=-0.583), SFG(r=-0.542) and DCG(r=-0.578). These results were all corrected by FWE (voxel level p < 0.001, cluster level p < 0.05).Conclusion: In conclusion, PLWNT can relieve the fatigue symptoms of CFS patients and improve their quality of life. CFS patients have abnormal regional spontaneous neuronal activity and abnormal functional connections between regions after PLENT intervention. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine (Ethics Approval Number: 2018-043), and registered in the American Clinical Trial Registry (12/04/2018), Registration Number is NCT03496961.
Whole-exome Sequencing Analysis for Mutations Characteristics in Recurrent or Metastatic Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Wang Lingquan , Xu Wei , Zhang Wenjing , Ni Zhentian , wang Xufeng , Mei Yu , Yan Chao , Li Chen , Xie Jing , Yan Min , Yang Liang , Zhu Zhenggang , Liu Wentao 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Surgical resection for the metastasis and recurrence of GIST was controversial. It is increasingly important to identify clinical factors related with survival and explore the driver genes and mutations in GIST.Methods: GIST patients who received two surgery for primary and recurrent and/or metastatic tumors between January 2003 and December 2018 were reviewed. Primary outcome was overall survival after reoperation. Kaplan-Meier , Cox proportional hazard regressions, and mean survival time were used to evaluate outcomes. Paired PT(primary tumor), RMT(recurrent and/or metastatic tumor) and normal DNA was whole- exome sequenced to generate comparable data for those specific 8 GIST cases. Results: We identified 39 eligible patients with a median overall survival time of 56.7 months(IQR:9.6-190.3months). Regular TKI(Imatinib) after primary tumor resection (HR:0.568; 95% confidence interval(CI):0.211-0.874; P=0.043) was associated with better OS, while presence of liver metastasis were prognostic for worse OS(HR:1.45; 95% CI:1.13-2.02;P=0.032) for those GIST patients who received re-surgery due to recurrent and/or metastatic tumor. Compared with normal tissue, we detected mutation on MUC family both in 8 PT and 7 RMT among the 8 patients. Only in irregular(TKI) group, the KIT mutations between PT and RMT contain correlations and differences, while its influence exist less on other cases. We also found that 31 genes which were direct correlation with coding regions may associated with RMT. We attained that the Spatial heterogeneity and temporal heterogeneity of the tumor reflected on mutation signature and subclone.Conclusions: The MUC mutations were supposed to be a potential predict to recurrent and/or metastatic GIST. The treatment of TKI could influence the KIT mutations on RMT of GIST. As the heterogeneity exist in PT and RMT, the direction of tumor evolution and progression were not stable and regular.
Covid-19 Cases Surge in a Security Compromised Region of Cameroon
Authors: Njoh Andreas Ateke , Mboke Eric , Ndoula Shalom Tchokfe , Bachir Hassan Ben , Nembot Raoul , Chebo Cornelius , Saidu Yauba 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
IntroductionThe emergence of more transmissible SARS-CoV-2 variants like the Delta has triggered a third wave of Covid-19 with increasing morbidity and mortality in many parts of the word. Here we report a surge in Covid-19 cases and deaths in the Northwest (NW) region of Cameroon, which has been plagued with low immunization coverage and an ongoing armed conflict.MethodA cross sectional study was carried out from August to September, 2021 and data on Covid-19 cases and vaccination coverage were reviewed from the data base of the Ministry of Health, while data on the security situation of the region was obtained from the district and regional health managers. Data were analyzed with MS excel and the results presented as trends and proportion.ResultsAs of 4th September, 2021 there was a total of 7,499 confirmed Covid-19 cases in the region. In Epidemiological week 34-35 (22-August to 04-September), 2021, there was a surge in Covid-19 cases in the NW. More than 70% of all covid-19 related deaths reported in the country was recorded in this region during epidemiologic week-35. Despite this high mortality, Covid-19 vaccine uptake remains very low in the region. Indeed, just 0.6% of the 962,036-target population have been fully immunized after 6 months of Covid-19 vaccine rollout. ConclusionThough the country’s epi curve does not suggest a third wave at this time, the NW is experiencing a steady Covid-19 case surge amid insecurity and the circulation of the Delta variant. There is therefore a need to strengthen disease prevention though vaccination and surveillance in this region.
Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Efficiently Improve Neurobehavioral Status and Alleviate Brain Injury in Hypoxia/Ischemia-Induced Cerebral Palsy Rat Model Via Down-Regulating the Nogoa/Ngr/Rho Pathway
Authors: Luo Yaoling , He Zhengyi , Zhang Minhong , Zou Zhengwei , Li Lincai , Qu Jiayang , Xu Qianqian , Ye Junsong 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a brain injury disease, which is a global public health issue with an estimated prevalence of 2‰—4‰ and imposes a substantial health burden on many countries. At present, there is no ideal treatment available and most of them will still suffer adverse outcomes. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells(HUCMSCs) application in many fields of medicine, which can promote nervous system regeneration and inhibit neuroinflammation. The regeneration of central nervous system(CNS) is related to the nervous regeneration inhibitors. NogoA/NgR/Rho pathway is very important to the nerve growth, CP injury is inevitably accompanied by the regeneration and repair of neurons and axons. so we hypothesized that NogoA/NgR/Rho pathway is involved in when using the HUCMSCs to treatment cerebral palsy.Purpose: In this study, we might clarify the NogoA/NgR/Rho pathway functional role in mediating HUCMSCs to improve neurobehavioral status and alleviate brain injury in hypoxia/ischemia-induced CP rat model.Methods: The CP rat model was established by ligating the left common carotid artery and anoxia for 2.5 h, and HUCMSCs were intravenous injected to the modeled rats. The neurobehavioral situation and brain pathological injury in CP rats were determined via a series of assays. The mRNA and protein expression of NogoA、NgR、RhoA、Rac-1、Cdc42 in brain tissue of rats in each group was detected by RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. Results: The CP rats exhibited obvious motor function abnormalities, pathological damage and a lot of brain nerve cell apoptosis. Compared with CP+PBS group and CP group rats, HUCMSCs transplantation can significantly improve the neurobehavioral situation, attenuated brain pathological injury, inhibit apoptosis of brain nerve cells and the activation of astrocytes in CP rats. The expression of NogoA、NgR、RhoA relative mRNA and protein in brain tissues of rats in the CP+PBS group and CP group rats were significantly lower than those of in the sham+PBS and CP+HUCMSCs group. The expression of Rac-1、Cdc42 relative mRNA and protein in brain tissues of rats in the sham and CP+HUCMSCs group was significantly higher than those of in CP+PBS group and CP group rats. Conclusion: This study confirmed that HUCMSCs can efficiently improve neurobehavioral status and alleviate brain injury in hypoxia/ischemia-induced cerebral palsy rat model via down-regulating the NogoA/NgR/Rho pathway.
Prevalence and Associations of Asteroid Hyalosis: The Beijing Eye Study
Authors: Zhang Chuan , Shao Lei , Dong Li , Zhou Wen Da , Zhang Rui , Wei Wen Bin 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: To determine the prevalence and associations of asteroid hyalosis (AH) in a Chinese population-based cohort.Methods: The population-based Beijing Eye Study 2011 included 3468 individuals with a mean age of 64.6 ± 9.8 years (range: 50-93 years). AH is a condition in which small yellow-white, spherical particles known as asteroid bodies (ABs) are present within the vitreous body.Results: Fundus photographs were gradable in 3419 subjects. AH was detected in 65 (0.9%, 95% CI: 0.7%, 1.2%) eyes of 53 (1.5%, 95% CI: 1.1%, 1.9%) subjects. AH was bilateral in 18.9%. Mean age of all subjects with AH was 69.2± 9.5 years (median, 71.0 years; range, 51–91 years), mean refractive error was 0.63±1.53D (median, 0.75 D; range, -4.12 to 4.00D). In multivariate analysis, prevalence of AH was associated with elder age (P=0.014, OR 1.057), thicker lens (P=0.034, OR 3.843), higher refractive error (P=0.016, OR 1.401).Conclusions: In adult Chinese in Beijing, the prevalence of AH was 0.9% for eyes or 1.5% for subjects. AH was associated with elder age, thicker lens and higher refractive error. It does not support previous observations of an association of AH with diabetes or other systemic indicators.
Delay in Decision to Seek Care on Institutional Delivery and Its Associated Factors Among Mothers Who Gave Birth in South Gondar Zone Hospitals, 2020. A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Tiruneh Gebrehiwot , Kassa Bekalu Getnet 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background: Delay to making decision to seeking care contributes to high maternal mortality and morbidity in developing countries. Major factor that contribute to maternal death in developing countries is decision-making to seek care. This study aimed at assessing the prevalence and associated factors of delay in making decision to seeking care on institutional delivery among mothers who gave birth in South Gondar zone hospitals, Ethiopia, 2020.Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from September1-October30/2020 with 650 mothers were participated in this study using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using a face-to-face interview with pretested semi-structured questionnaires Bi-variable and multi-variable analyses conducted and the Odds ratio with 95% CI was estimated to identify factors of delay to making decision to seeking care. The statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05.Results: Delay in making decision to seeking care on institutional delivery was found to be 36.3% (95%CI=32.6 to 40.1). The mean age of the respondents was 27.23 with a standard deviation of 5.67. Mothers who reside in rural area (AOR=3.14,95%, CI:2.40-4.01), uneducated mothers (AOR= 3.62, 95%, CI:2.45-5.52), unplanned of pregnancy (AOR: 2.01, 95% CI: 1.84-7.96), and no health facilities in Keble (AOR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.43-6.32) were statistically associated with delay to making decision to seeking care.Conclusion: One in three delivered mothers had been delayed in making decision to seek care in South Gondar zone. Pregnant mothers living in the rural area, unplanned of pregnancy, uneducated mothers, no health facilities in Keble Therefore, strategies to identify determinants and reduced of delay in making decision to seek care.