bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of DNA methylation-driven genes and construction of a nomogram to predict overall survival in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Deng Guochao , Sun De-cong , Zhou Qian , Lv Yao , Yan Huan , Han Quan-li , Dai Guanghai 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: The incidence and mortality of pancreatic cancer (PC) has gradually increased. The aim of this study was to identify survival-related DNA methylation (DNAm)-driven genes and establish a nomogram to predict outcomes in patients with PC.Methods: The gene expression, DNA methylation database, and PC clinical samples were downloaded from TCGA. DNAm-driven genes were identified by integrating analyses of gene expression and DNA methylation data. Survival-related DNAm-driven genes were screened via univariate, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and multivariate Cox regression analyses to develop a risk score model for prognosis. Based on analyses of clinical parameters and risk score, a nomogram was built and validated. The independent cohort (GSE21501) was used for external validation.Results: A total of 16 differentially expressed methylation-driven genes were identified. Based on LASSO Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression analysis, six genes (FERMT1, LIPH, LAMA3, PPP1R14D, NQO1, VSIG2) were chosen to develop the risk score model. In the Kaplan–Meier analysis, age, T, N, stage, radiation therapy history, tumor size, surgery type performed, pathological type, chemotherapy history, and risk score were potential prognostic factors in PC (P < 0.1). In the multivariate analysis, stage, chemotherapy, and risk score were significantly correlated to overall survival (P < 0.05). The nomogram was constructed with the three variables (stage, chemotherapy, and risk score) for predicting the 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates of PC patients. The C-index of the nomogram model was 0.768. Nomogram performance was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration curves.Conclusion: In our study, we successfully identified the six DNAm-driven genes (FERMT1, LIPH, LAMA3, PPP1R14D, NQO1, VSIG2) with a relationship to the outcomes of PC patients. The nomogram including stage, chemotherapy, and risk score could be used to predict survival in PC patients.
Mechanism of kinetin-induced death of Vicia faba ssp. minor cortex cells
Authors: Kaźmierczak Andrzej , Kunikowska Anita , Doniak Magdalena , Kornaś Andrzej 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Cell death (CD) takes part in the control of all the steps of plant development. It may be induced by endogenous or exogenous factors. This paper presents the results related to mechanism of CD regulation induced by kinetin (Kin) in root cortex of Vicia faba ssp. minor. To explain the process 6-(2-hydroxy-3-methylbenzylamino)purine (PI-55), adenine (Ad), 5'-amine-5'-deoxyadenosine (Ado) and N-(2-chloro-4-piridylo)-N’-phenylurea (CPPU) were applied to (i) block cytokinins (CKs) receptors and toinhibit the activity of (ii) kinases, (iii) oxidases and (iv) phosphoribosyltransferase, respectively. Moreover, ethylene glycol-bis(β-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA), lanthanum chloride (LaCl3) and cyclosporine (CsA) were applied to inactivate calcium ion (Ca2+) channels (i) across all membranes (ALM-Ca2+), including (ii) endoplasmic reticulum (ER-Ca2+) and (iii) mitochondria (MIT-Ca2+), respectively. The effects of these factors were measured by estimation of vitality of cortex cells and amounts of cytosolic Ca2+. Additionally, the role of Sorafenib, inhibitor of RAF kinase, on vitality of cortex cells and ethylene amount as well as the activities of Raf-like kinase and MEK2 with Syntide and Mek2 as substrates, were studied. The results of the paper clarified the suggestion that Kin was converted directly or indirectly to appropriate ribotides (5’-monophosphate ribonucleotides) which cooperated with ethylene and calcium ions signaling pathway activating CD by Kin (Kin-ECD) exogenously (E). Based on the present and previously published results, the scheme of the crosstalk between ethylene signaling MAP kinases, CKs receptor and enzymes of their metabolism in induction of Kin-ECD is proposed.
Baseline intra-operative left ventricular diastolic function predicts postoperative length of stay in patients with normal systolic function undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass surgery
Authors: Mondal Samhati , Faraday Nauder , Gao Wei Dong , Singh Sarabdeep , Hebbar Sachdanand , Hollander Kimberly N , Metkus Thomas S , Goeddel Lee , Bauer Maria , Bush Brian , Cho Brian , Cha Stephanie , Ibekwe Stephanie O , Mladinov Domagoj , Rolleri Noah , Lester Laeben , Steppan Jochen , Sheinberg Rosanne , Hensley Nadia , Kapoor Anubhav , Dodd-o Jeffrey M 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Importance: Abnormal left ventricular (LV) diastolic function, with or without a diagnosis of heart failure, is a common finding that can be easily diagnosed by intra-operative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The association of diastolic function with duration of hospital stay after coronary artery bypass (CAB) is unknown. Objective: To determine if abnormal LV diastolic function (diastolic dysfunction) is associated with length of hospital stay after coronary artery bypass surgery (CAB). Design: Prospective observational studySetting: A single tertiary academic medical centerParticipants: Patients with normal systolic function undergoing isolated CAB from September 2017 through June 2018. Exposures: LV function during diastole, as assessed by intra-operative TEE prior to coronary revascularization. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was duration of postoperative hospital stay. Secondary intermediate outcomes included common postoperative cardiac, respiratory, and renal complications. Results: The study included 176 participants (mean age 65.2 +/- 9.2 years, 73% male); 106 (60.2%) had LV diastolic dysfunction. Median time to hospital discharge was significantly longer for subjects with diastolic dysfunction (9.1/IQR 6.6-13.5 days) than those with normal LV diastolic function (6.5/IAR 5.3-9.7days) (P< 0.001). The probability of hospital discharge was 34% lower (HR 0.66/95% CI 0.47-0.93) for subjects with diastole dysfunction, independent of potential confounders, including a baseline diagnosis of heart failure. There was a dose-response relation between severity of diastolic dysfunction and probability of discharge. LV diastolic dysfunction was also associated with postoperative cardio-respiratory complications; however, these complications did not fully account for the relation between LV diastolic dysfunction and prolonged length of hospital stay.Conclusions and Relevance: In patients with normal systolic function undergoing CAB, diastolic dysfunction is associated with prolonged duration of postoperative hospital stay. This association cannot be explained by baseline comorbidities or common post-operative complications.
Thermal Performance Reflects Evolutionary Legacies of Seaweeds and Seagrasses Across a Regional Climate Gradient
Authors: Bennett Scott , Vaquer-Sunyer Raquel , Jorda Gabriel , Forteza Marina , Roca Guillem , Marbà Núria 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Comparative patterns in thermal performance between populations have fundamental implications for a species thermal sensitivity to warming and extreme events. Despite this, within-species variation in thermal performance is seldom measured. Here we compare within-species variation in thermal performance across the Mediterranean Sea, with between-species variation within communities, for two species of seagrass (Posidonia oceanica and Cymodocea nodosa) and two species of seaweed (Padina pavonica and Cystoseira compressa). Experimental populations from four locations representing approximately 75% of each species global distribution and a 6ºC gradient in summer temperatures were exposed to 10 temperature treatments (15ºC to 36ºC), reflecting median, maximum and future temperatures. Thermal performance displayed the greatest variability between species, with optimal temperatures differing by over 10ºC within the same location. Within-species differences in thermal performance were also important for P. oceanica which displayed large thermal safety margins within cool and warm-edge populations and small safety margins within central populations. Overall, experimental upper thermal limits reflected genus-level realised thermal limits, more than realised species-limits or maximum local temperatures. Our findings suggest patterns of thermal performance in Mediterranean seagrasses and seaweeds retain deep ‘pre-Mediterranean’ evolutionary legacies, resulting in unexpected patterns of vulnerability to warming within benthic marine communities.
Peak Expiratory Flow During Mechanical Insufflation-Exsufflation: Endotracheal Tube Versus Facemask
Authors: Hyun Sung Eun , Lee Sang-Min , Shin Hyung-Ik 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Mechanical insufflation-exsufflation (MI-E) applied through the endotracheal tube (ET) can effectively eliminate airway secretions in intubated patients. However, the effect of the interface (ET vs. facemask) on expiratory airflow generated by MI-E has not been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the ET on peak expiratory flow (PEF), along with other associated factors that could influence PEF generated by MI-E. Methods: Intubated participants received two sessions of MI-E via ET therapy per day for two consecutive days. One MI-E session consisted of five sets of either constant (+40/-40 cmH2O) or incremental (+30/-30 to +50/-50 cmH2O) pressure applications. Following extubation, MI-E sessions were repeated using facemask. Expiratory airflow during MI-E therapy was measured, and repetitive PEF measurements during each session were analysed using linear mixed-effect and generalised linear mixed models. Results: A total of 12 participants (9 [75.0%] men; mean [SD] age, 74.0 [10.2] years) completed all MI-E sessions with both ET and facemask interfaces. The PEF generated during MI-E treatment was influenced by the pressure gradient, number of session repetitions, and interface (ET vs. facemask). Adjusted mean PEF values for MI-E via ET and facemask at +40/-40 cmH2O were -2.521 and -3.114 L/s, respectively, and -2.956 and -3.364 L/s at +50/-50 cmH2O, respectively. At a pressure gradient of +40/-40 cmH2O, only 172 of 528 MI-E trials via ET (32.6%) achieved a PEF faster than -2.7 L/s, whereas 304 of 343 MI-E trials via facemask (88.6%) exceeded the PEF cut-off value.Conclusions: MI-E via ET generated slower PEF than via facemask, suggesting that a higher-pressure protocol should be prescribed for intubated patients. An insufflation-exsufflation pressure of at least +50/-50 cmH2O should be considered to produce a PEF faster than 2.7 L/s, and the applications were safe and feasible for patients under invasive mechanically ventilation.
Maternal education gradients in early life height: A comparative study of eight Latin American countries
Authors: Abufhele Alejandra , Allel Kasim , Narea Marigen , Waldfogel Jane 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background

More than 20% of the children around the world were stunted in 2018. The situation is not any better in Latin American countries, even though stunting prevalence has been declining since 2000. Stunting has adverse consequences on children: severe short- and long-term health and functional effects, poor cognition and educational performance, low adult wages, and productivity loss.
Methods

This study compares maternal education gradients in height-for-age z-scores (HAZs) and stunting prevalence in children between two and four years of age from eight different Latin American countries: Chile, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Paraguay, Mexico, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Peru.
Results

Results show that the prevalence of stunting varies widely across Latin American countries. Having a mother with tertiary education increases HAZs in every country (except Paraguay), compared to having a mother with primary education or less. In some countries, there is also a difference in HAZs associated with secondary versus primary maternal education. With regard to stunting, maternal education is a crucial determinant to decrease the odds of being stunted in early years in countries with the highest stunting prevalence (≈ 20%); however, this is not the case for countries where the prevalence is low (< 5%).
Conclusions

We found that maternal education is associated with height and stunting in preschool-aged children in our sampled Latin American countries. The association’s magnitude is higher for LMICs than for countries with a higher income per capita in the zone (i.e., Chile and Uruguay). These results suggest that future policies aiming to increase maternal education will improve children’s height-for-age and decrease their risk of stunting.
Engineering Biocompatible Hydrogel Fibers With Tunable Mechanical Properties For Neural Tissue Engineering
Authors: Samanipour Roya , Tahmooressi Hamed , Nejad Hojatollah Rezaei , Sakthivel Kabilan , Yavarinasab Adel , Talebjedi Bahram , Tasnim Nishat , Hoorfar Mina 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Neural tissue engineering holds a great promise for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and peripheral nerve injuries. However, the anisotropic mechanical and electrical properties of the highly aligned neural cells have hindered the development of a faithful in vitro disease models. In this study, a core-shell microfluidic extrusion method is implemented to fabricate a cell-laden composite hydrogel fiber with tunable mechanical properties. The hybrid hydrogel was formed using a core of GelMA mixed with gelatin seeded with human neuroblastoma cell (SH-SY5Y) and an alginate shell. The composition of the core hydrogel was optimized to support cellular growth and differentiation, yet allow a feasible fabrication of cell-laden fibers. The engineered fibers were remarkably biocompatible and enabled the formation of highly aligned cellular morphology.
METTL3 Promotes Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression by Enhancing SLC7A11 mRNA Stability via m6A-Mediated IGF2BP2 Binding
Authors: Xu Le , Li Qingxiang , Wang Yifei , Wang Lin , Guo Yuxing , Ge Na , Wang Yixiang , Guo Chuanbin 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: As the key enzyme of the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in eukaryotic messenger RNA, METTL3 plays important roles in tumor progression, but the exact mechanism by which METTL3 controls oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression remains unclear. Methods: METTL3 expression in OSCC samples was analyzed by qPCR and immunohistochemistry. The effects of METTL3 suppression on OSCC cell lines were measured by CCK-8, Ki-67 flow cytometry analysis, invasion transwell and wound healing assays. MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq analysis were performed to explore target gene of METTL3. RIP-qPCR and RNA stability assays were performed to explore the mechanism by which METTL3 regulated the target genes. Triptolide was used to evaluate its specific treatment effects on METTL3 in OSCC cells. BALB/c nude mice were used to establish orthotopic and subcutaneous xenograft models to verify the in vitro results.Results: METTL3 was upregulated in OSCC tissues than adjacent normal tissues, and its expression was associated with T stage, lymphatic metastasis and prognosis. In vitro and in vivo studies suggested that METTL3 suppression impaired cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq analysis identified that SLC7A11 mRNA was the m6A target of METTL3, which was verified by meRIP-qPCR, qPCR and western blot. METTL3 depletion decreased the stability of SLC7A11 mRNA, and IGF2BP2 was involved in this process. Moreover, METTL3 knockdown attenuated the binding between SLC7A11 mRNA and IGF2BP2, finally leading to accelerate SLC7A11 mRNA degradation. Triptolide inhibited METTL3 and SLC7A11 expression in a dose-dependent manner, thus suppressing malignancy of OSCC cells. Conclusions: METTL3 enhances the mRNA stability of SLC7A11 via m6A-mediated binding of IGF2BP2, which thus promotes OSCC progression, and triptolide inhibits OSCC by suppressing METTL3-SLC7A11 axis.
Regulation of Subsoiling Tillage on the Grain Filling Characteristics of Maize Varieties From Different Eras
Authors: WANG Li-qing , YU Xiao-Fang , GAO Ju-Lin , MA Da-Ling , LI Liang , HU Shu-Ping 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Grain filling is the key stage for achieving high grain yield. Subsoiling tillage has been widely used as a conservation tillage method in the maize planting region of China. This study was conducted to explore the effects of subsoiling on the grain filling characteristics of maize varieties of different eras. Five typical maize varieties from different eras (1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s and 2010s) were used as trial materials with two tillage modalities: rotation tillage and subsoiling tillage. The characteristic parameters and rate parameters of grain filling were compared and analyzed using the selected tillage modalities. The results showed that the grain filling parameters of the 2010s variety were better than those of the other varieties, and these differences mainly manifested in the filling rate parameters of the rapidly increasing and slowly increasing periods. In comparison with rotation tillage, subsoiling improved the maximum grain filling rate and the grain growth during the period of the maximum grain filling rate to different degrees. In addition, subsoiling delayed the appearance time of the maximum grain filling rate, extended the grain filling duration, and improved the mean filling rate. These differences are major reasons for the significant increase in 100-kernel dry weight at harvest for subsoiling in comparison with rotation tillage. Moreover, subsoiling enhanced the filling rate parameters during the rapidly increasing and slowly increasing periods. The filling stage filling duration and filling rate of maize varieties of different eras showed different responses to subsoiling. For example, the grain filling rate parameters of the 2010s variety during the rapidly increasing period were more sensitive to subsoiling in comparison with those of the other varieties.
Identification and Function of ETH Receptor Networks in The Silkworm Bombyx Mori
Authors: Daubnerová Ivana , Roller Ladislav , Satake Honoo , Zhang Chen , Kim Young-Joon , Žitňan Dušan 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Insect ecdysis triggering hormones (ETHs) released from endocrine Inka cells act on specific neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) to activate the ecdysis sequence. These primary target neurons express distinct splicing variants of ETH receptor (ETHR-A or ETHR-B). Here, we characterized both ETHR subtypes in the moth Bombyx mori in vitro and mapped spatial and temporal distribution of their expression within the CNS and peripheral organs. In the CNS, we detected non-overlapping expression patterns of each receptor isoform which showed dramatic changes during metamorphosis. Most ETHR-A and a few ETHR-B neurons produce multiple neuropeptides which are downstream signals for the initiation or termination of various phases during the ecdysis sequence. We also described novel roles of different neuropeptides during these processes. Careful examination of peripheral organs revealed ETHRs expression in specific cells of the frontal ganglion (FG), corpora allata (CA), H-organ and Malpighian tubules prior to each ecdysis. These data indicate that PETH and ETH are multifunctional hormones that act via ETHR-A and ETHR-B to control various functions during the entire development - the ecdysis sequence and associated behaviors by the CNS and FG, JH synthesis by the CA, and possible activity of the H-organ and Malpighian tubules.
Improving Export Competitiveness Through Free Trade: The Case of Africa
Authors: Iyoboyi Martins , Musa-Pedro Latifah , Ademola Abdulsalam S. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
In this study, a sample of the largest economies in Africa is used to investigate the impact of free trade on export competitiveness, using panel data econometric techniques on data covering 2000 through 2018. Results from the Pooled Ordinary Least Squares regression and reinforced by the Fixed Effect Model show that the significant positive determinants of export competitiveness are openness, exchange rate, ICT-related infrastructure and the rule of law, whereas corruption and foreign direct investment are significant constraints. Although tariff was found to be positively related to export competitiveness, it is not a significant driver. It is recommended that African countries should initiate and promote policies that enhance the quality and quantity of infrastructure, its institutional environment (encompassing the rule of law and the capacity to address corruption), including attracting the right kind of foreign direct investment that facilitates the utilization of its vast natural resources and transfers suitable technology. JEL Classification Codes: F10, F15, R10
WITHDRAWN: Pekin Duck Strain and Housing System Affect Chemical Composition, Fatty Acid Profile, and The Extent of Lipid and Protein Oxidation in Meat
Authors: Starčević Marija , Mahmutović Hava , Glamočlija Nataša , Baltić Branislav , Popović Milka , Mitrović Radmila , Marković Radmila , Janjić Jelena , Glišić Milica , Baltić Milan Ž. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Genetics and rearing system are important for meat quality. However, few studies were conducted on genetics and housing system and their relationship with chemical composition and oxidation processes in Pekin duck meat. In order to investigate the effect of different strains and housing systems on chemical composition, fatty acid profile and the content of lipid and protein oxidation products in breasts and thighs of Pekin ducks, we used a total of 40 49-day-old Pekin ducks of two strains (STAR 53 medium hybrid and SM3 heavy hybrid) reared in two housing systems (intensive vs. semi-intensive). Results: Duck strain affected the contents of moisture and protein in breasts and fatty acid composition in breasts and thighs. STAR 53 ducks had a lower polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) to saturated fatty acids (SFA) ratio and level of lipid peroxidation measured in frozen thighs than SM3 ducks. Chemical composition of meat was not affected by housing system. Rearing conditions influenced fatty acid composition of breasts and thighs. In intensively reared ducks, higher total n-3 PUFA content and PUFA to SFA ratio, and lower n-6 to n-3 PUFA ratio and atherogenicity index were found in thighs than in ducks that had access to land outside. Moreover, rearing conditions had significant effects on lipid peroxidation level and protein carbonyl content in meat. In intensively reared birds, fresh samples of thigh meat and frozen samples of breasts and thighs had higher level of lipid peroxidation than in semi-intensively reared ducks. Contents of protein carbonyls in fresh samples of breasts and thighs were higher in birds reared in the intensive system than in ducks reared in the semi-intensive housing system.Conclusions: These results suggest that duck strain affects fatty acid composition of meat, where SM3 ducks had more favorable fatty acid profiles than STAR 53 ducks. Moreover, housing system influenced meat quality. Intensively reared ducks had a more desirable fatty acid profile of meat, but it was more prone to lipid and protein oxidation than meat from ducks that had open access to land.