bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional and Metabolic Responses of Maize Shoots to Long-Term Potassium Deficiency
Authors: Xiong Wangdan , Wang Yujian , Guo Yongzhen , Fu Dandan , Tang Wei , Zhao Yiran , Yang Guofeng , Chen Jingtang , Song Xiyun , Sun Juan 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
AimsPotassium is important for plant growth and crop yield. However, the effects of potassium (K+) deficiency on silage maize biomass yield and how maize shoot feedback mechanisms of K+ deficiency regulating whole plant growth remains largely unknown. Here, the study aims to explore the maize growth and transcriptional and metabolic responses of shoots to long-term potassium deficiency.MethodsThe growth of silage maize and its biomass were analyzed with K+ treatment in field and hydroponic experiments. Furthermore, transcriptional and metabolic profiles of shoots were investigated for their effects on maize development under K+ deficiency condition. ResultsUnder K+ insufficiency condition, the biomass yield of silage maize decreased by 14%-17% in two-year field trials. The transcriptome data showed that there were 390 differently expressed genes overlapping and similarly regulated in the two varieties and they were considered as the fundamental responses to K+ deficiency in maize shoots, with many stress-induced genes involved in transport, primary and secondary metabolism, regulation, and other processes involved in K+ acquisition and homeostasis. Metabolic profiles indicated that most amino acids, phenolic acids, organic acids, and alkaloids were accumulated in shoots under K+ deficiency condition and part of the sugars and sugar alcohols also increased. ConclusionOur results suggested putrescine and putrescine derivatives were specifically accumulated under K+ deficiency condition, which may play a role in feedback regulation of shoot growth. These results confirmed the importance of K+ on silage maize production and provided a deeper insight into the responses to K+ deficiency in maize shoots.
Dietary Patterns and Severity of Symptom with the Risk of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and its Histological Precursor Lesions in China: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Zang Zhaoping , Liu Yong , Wang Jialin , Liu Yuqin , Zhang Shaokai , Zhang Yongzhen , Zhang Liwei , Zhao Deli , Liu Fugang , Chao Lina , Wang Xinzheng , Zhang Chunli , Song Guohui , Zhang Zhiyi , Li Youpeng , Yan Zheng , Wen Yongxiu , Ge Yinyin , Niu Chen , Feng Wei , Nakyeyune Rena , Shen Yi , Shao Yi , Guo Xiuhua , Yang Aiming , Liu Fen , Wang Guiqi 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Background: Dietary patterns and symptoms research among Chinese with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and its precursor lesions is limited, especially as it relates to multiple food consumption and multiple co-occurring symptoms. The aim of our study was to identify the dietary patterns and severity of symptom classes with the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and its histological precursor lesions, and develop a risk prediction model for different stages of esophageal disease.Methods: We analyzed data from a multicenter cross-sectional study carried out in ESCC high incidence areas between 2017 and 2018, which included 34,707 individuals aged 40-69 years. Dietary patterns and severity of symptom classes were derived by applying a latent class analysis (LCA). A multiple logistic regression model was used to derive the odds ratio (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for ESCC and the different stages of esophageal disease according to the dietary patterns and severity of symptom classes identified. We built the risk prediction model by using a nomogram.Results: We identified five dietary patterns and three severity of symptom classes. The dietary patterns were classified as follows: “Healthy”, “Western”, “Lower consumers-combination”, “Medium consumers-combination” and “Higher consumers-combination” patterns based on the intake of foods such as red meat, vegetables and fruits. The severity of symptoms was categorized into “Asymptomatic”, “Mild symptoms” and “Overt symptoms” classes based on health-related symptoms reported by the participants. Compared to the “Healthy” pattern, the other four patterns were all associated with an increased risk of esophageal disease. Similarly, the other two symptom classes present different degrees of increased risk of esophageal disease compared to the “Asymptomatic”. The nomograms reflect the good predictive ability of the model.Conclusion: Among individuals aged 40-69 years in high incidence regions of upper gastrointestinal cancer, the results supplied important epidemiological evidence and given further insights into dietary patterns and symptoms research.
Overexpression of the ZmSAMDC Enhances Cold Tolerance in Transgenic Maize (Zea Mays L.)
Authors: Jiao Peng , Jin Shiyou , Chen Nannan , Wang Chunlai , Liu Siyan , Qu Jing , guan shuyan , Ma Yiyong 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) is a food crop sensitive to low temperatures. Low temperature, as one of the abiotic stress hazards, seriously affects the yield of corn. However, the genetic basis of low-temperature adaptation in maize is still poorly understood. In this study, maize S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (SAMDC) was localized on the nucleus. We introduced the SAMDC gene into the excellent maize inbred line variety GSH9901 and used Agrobacterium-mediated transformation to produce cold-tolerant transgenic maize lines. After a 3-year single-location field trial, the contents of polyamine (PA), proline, malondialdehyde, an antioxidant enzyme, and APX in the leaves of transgenic maize plants overexpressing SAMDC were significantly increased, and the introduction of the SAMDC gene was significantly increased the expression of CBFs and cold-related genes.The agronomic traits of overexpression maize changed and the yield traits were significantly improved, but no significant changes were found in plant height, ear length, and shaft thickness.Thus, engineering the SAMDC enzyme is an effective strategy to improve the cold tolerance and value of maize.
Prognostic Value and Optimal Candidates of Primary Tumor Surgery in Metastatic Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: First Evidence from a Population-Based Study
Authors: Zhang Di 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Objective: The prognostic value of primary tumor surgery (PTS) for patients with metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma of the head and neck (HNACC) at initial diagnosis has never been studied. The aims of this study were to determine the prognostic significance and identify optimal candidates of PTS.Materials and Methods: Patients with metastatic HNACC (stage IVC) at initial diagnosis were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database between 2004 and 2015. Correlated variables, including age, sex, race, tumor stage, metastatic site, treatment, and survival information were extracted. Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank test, and multivariate Cox regression model were performed to evaluate the impact of PTS on survival outcomes, including overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS).Results: Overall, 155 patients were identified from database. Of those, 93 (60%) patients underwent palliative PTS. Patients with lung metastasis alone were more likely undergo PTS (c2=15.042, P=0.002). The univariate analysis showed that PTS were associated with significantly improved survival than no-PTS (P=0.001 for CSS; P＜0.001 for OS). The median CSS for patients who received PTS and those who did not receive PTS were 64.0 and 22.0 months, respectively. The median OS for patients who received PTS and those without PTS were 43.0 and 16.0 months, respectively. Notably, in multivariate model, the OS of patients who underwent PTS was better than that of patients who did not (HR=0.586, P=0.017), but there was no significantly improvement in CSS. In addition, subgroup analyses further revealed that patients with T3-4 or N0 stage might benefit from PTS.Conclusion: PTS signifi­cantly improved OS in patients with metastatic HNACC. Besides, PTS had a favorable prognostic impact on highly-selected patients, namely T3-4 and N0 stage, which could be adopted in future clinical practice. Further multicenter prospective studies are still needed to verify these outcomes.
Fetuin-A Alleviates Neuroinflammation Against Traumatic Brain Injury-Induced Microglial Necroptosis By Regulating Nrf-2/HO-1 Pathway
Authors: Zhao Pengzhan , Bao Zhongyuan , Sun Guangchi , Chao Honglu , Tu Yiming , Chen Binglin , Li Chong , Ji Jing 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Background: The microglia-mediated inflammatory response is a vital mechanism of secondary damage following traumatic brain injury (TBI), but its underlying mechanism of microglial activation is unclear. Methods: Controlled cortical impact (CCI) was induced in adult male C57BL/6J mice, and we also used glutamate to construct a classical in vitro injury model in BV2 cell line. The activation of microglia was determined by western blot assessments and immunostaining. The inflammatory factors were determined by ELLSA. The oxidative stress marker and mitochondrial ROS were determined by immunoblotting and MitoSox Red staining. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to observe a typical morphology of necroptotic cells. Results: Our quantitative proteomics identified 2499 proteins, 157 were significantly differentially expressed between brain tissues at 6 hours after CCI (CCI6h) and sham groups, and 109 were significantly differentially expressed between CCI24h and sham brain tissues. Moreover, compared with sham groups, the terms “acute-phase response”, “inflammation”, and “protein binding” were significantly enriched in CCI groups. Interestingly, fetuin-A, a liver-secreted acute-phase glycoprotein, was involved in these biological processes. Using experimental TBI models, we found that the fetuin-A level peaked at 6 h and then decreased gradually. Importantly, we showed that fetuin-A reduced the cortical lesion volume and edema area and inhibited the inflammatory response, which was associated with suppressing microglial necroptosis, thus decreasing microglial polarization to the M1 phenotype. Furthermore, administration of fetuin-A attenuated mitochondrial oxidative stress in glutamate-treated BV2 cells, which is a critical mechanism of necroptosis suppression. In addition, we demonstrated that fetuin-A treatment promoted translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) from the cytoplasm to the nucleus in vivo; however, the Nrf-2 inhibitor ML385 and si-heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) disrupted the regulation of oxidative stress by fetuin-A and induced increased ROS levels and necroptosis in glutamate-treated BV2 cells. Interestingly, the mechanism of fetuin-A in BV2 cells also protects neurons from adverse factors in co-culture assays.Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that fetuin-A activates Nrf-2/HO-1, suppresses oxidative stress and necroptosis levels, and thereby attenuates the abnormal inflammatory response following TBI, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for TBI treatment.
Development and Validation of a Novel Immune-Related Prognostic Model and the Potential Mechanism in Metastatic Synovial Sarcoma
Authors: Huang Yufeng , Gong Ming , Tang Qinglian , Chen Hongmin , Hu Jinxin , Deng Chuangzhong , Lin Jiaming , Huang Anfei , Xu Yanyang , Feng Huixiong , Song Guohui , Xu Huaiyuan , Lu Jinchang , Zhu Xiaojun , Wang Jin 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Background: Several clinical trials have shown that immunotherapy plays a pivotal role in the treatment of patients with metastatic synovial sarcoma. Immune-related genes (IRGs) have been demonstrated to play an important role in tumorigenesis and tumour microenvironment formation. However, the clinical significance of IRGs in patients with synovial sarcoma(SS) is still unclear, and systematic analysis is lacking.Methods: We downloaded the GSE40021 dataset from the GEO database, which included 30 cases of nonmetastatic and 28 cases of metastatic SS. Firstly,We combined the immune-related ImmPort gene set to search for SS related to metastatic and differentially expressed immune-related genes (DEIRGs). We then performed univariate Cox regression analysis from soft tissue sarcoma database in TCGA to identify DEIRGs that related to overall survival, and constructed an immune-related prognostic assessment model. We used the assessment model to evaluate the infiltration of immune cells in the tumour microenvironment through the ssGSEA algorithm. Finally, we collected tumour tissues in our centre to verify the RNA expression levels by real-time quantitative reverse transcription(RT-qPCR) analysis. Results: The study screened a total of six DEIRGs which were closely related to prognosisin in metastatic SS. We then constructed an immune-related prognostic assessment model which was an independent prognostic factor different from other clinical features. Further analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the expression of several immune checkpoints between the two groups in the GSE40021 data. Moreover, the GREM2 and CTSS genes were significantly expressed in metastatic patients. Further verification of clinical SS tissues from our centre by RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated reduced infiltration of activated NK cells and macrophages but increased M2-type macrophages in metastatic patients.Conclusion: The study successfully constructed an immune-related prognostic assessment model and probably explain the poor efficacy PD-1 inhibitors for SS patients. Together,the research deepens our understanding of the tumor immune microenvironment and proposed a new immune mechanism of metastatic SS.Advance intervention and reversal of microenvironmental changes are expected to delay metastasis and improve survival.
Utility of 99mTc-sestamibi Heart/Liver uptake ratio in Screening Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease during Myocardial Perfusion Imaging
Authors: Norouzi Ghazal , Nikdel Sara , Pirayesh Elahe , Salimi Yazdan , Amoui Mahasti , Haghighatkhah Hamidreza , Rad Mohammad Ali Ghodsi , Javanijouni Elmira , khoshbakht Sepideh 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Purpose

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic hepatic disease worldwide with functional impairment of the mitochondria occurring from early stages. Technetium-99m methoxy-isobutyl-isonitrile (99mTc-MIBI) is a lipophilic agent trapped in the mitochondria. This study aims to evaluate the utility of 99mTc-MIBI heart/liver uptake ratio in screening for NAFLD during myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI).
Methods

70eligible patients underwent a two-day rest/stress 99mTc-MIBI scan with a 2-minute planar image acquired in rest phase, at 30, 60 and 120 minutes post radiotracer administration. Heart/liver uptake ratio was calculated by placing identical regions of interest on the heart and liver dome. All patients underwent liver ultrasound and were allocated into groups A, having NAFLD, and B, healthy individuals without NAFLD.
Results

Mean count per pixel heart/liver ratios gradually increased over time in either groups; nonetheless the values were significantly higher in group A, regardless of acquisition timing; with the P-value equal to 0.007, 0.014 and 0.010 at 30, 60 and 120 minutes, respectively.
Conclusions

Determining 99mTc-MIBI heart/liver uptake ratio during rest phase in patients undergoing MPI may be a useful, non-invasive screening method for NAFLD; with no additional cost, radiation burden or adverse effects in these patients.
Pertuzumab As Second- or Later-Line Therapy For Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Swiss Clinical Experience
Authors: Biskup Ewelina , Sartorius Céline Montavon , Müller Andreas , Leo Cornelia , Nussbaum Catrina Uhlmann , Margarint Elena Laura Georgescu , Koychev Daniel , Schreiber Alexander , Taverna Christian , Thorn David , Vetter Marcus 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Background: Trastuzumab and pertuzumab with taxane-based chemotherapy are considered the first-line standard therapy for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive metastatic breast cancer (mBC). Pertuzumab is also a later-line therapy for mBC in Switzerland, although limited safety and efficacy data are available. This study assesses the therapeutic regimens, toxicities, and clinical outcomes after second- or later-line pertuzumab therapy in patients with mBC who did not receive pertuzumab as a first-line therapy. Materials and Methods: Physicians from major Swiss oncology centers retrospectively completed a questionnaire for each pertuzumab-naive patient who was treated with pertuzumab as a second- or later-line therapy. Results: Of 35 patients with HER2-positive mBC (median age: 49 years; range: 35-87 years), 14 received pertuzumab as a second-line therapy, six as a third-line therapy, and 15 as a fourth- or later-line therapy. Twenty patients (57%) died during the study period. The median overall survival was 74.2 months (95% confidence interval: 47.6-139.8 months). Grade (G) 3/4 adverse events (AEs) were reported in 14% of patients, with only one patient discontinuing therapy due to pertuzumab-related toxicities. The most common AE was fatigue (overall: 46%; G3: 11%). Overall, congestive heart disease occurred in 14% of patients (G3: 6%), nausea in 14% (all G1), and myelosuppression in 12% (G3: 6%). Conclusion: The median overall survival of second- or later-line pertuzumab is similar to that reported for first-line pertuzumab, and the safety profile was acceptable. These data support using pertuzumab for second- or later-line therapy when it was not administered as first-line therapy.
Elevators and staircase handrails as potential sources of nosocomial pathogens at Ndola Teaching Hospital, Zambia
Authors: Mulongo Tony , Kamvuma Kingsley , Phiri Christopher N. , Mulemena John A. , Chanda Warren 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
This study aimed to assess microbial colonization of elevators and the staircase handrail at Ndola Teaching Hospital. Swabs from elevators and staircase handrail were cultured on Blood, MacConkey and Mannitol Salt agar for 24-48h at 35-37oC. All observed bacterial colonies were sub-cultured for identification. Data analysis was conducted with Microsoft excel 2010 and SPSS version 20 statistical software. A 2-tailed Pearson Correlation test was used to assess for significant differences in colonization prevalence between the two elevators and handrail. A total of 94 bacteria species were isolated, among which 75(78.8%) were isolated from elevators while 19(20.2%) were isolated from the staircase handrail. Most bacteria were isolated from exterior buttons followed by doors and interior of elevators whereas the basement, ground and sixth floor sections of the staircase handrail were largely contaminated with S. aureus, non-spore-forming Gram-positive bacilli, Klebsiella spp, coagulase-negative Staphylococci and Enterobacter spp. Overall, the commonest isolated bacteria were S. aureus (33%) followed by non-spore-forming Gram-positive bacilli (16%), coagulase-negative Staphylococci, and endospore-forming Gram-positive bacilli (13.8% apiece), Streptococci (7.4%), and Klebsiella species (6.4%). A strong relationship existed between the prevalence of bacteria colonizers of elevators and the staircase handrail (p<0.01). Therefore, the study showed that elevators and the staircase handrail possess viable microorganisms and may act as potential sources of nosocomial infections especially to immunocompromised patients in hospitals, and this calls for proper and effective infection control and prevention strategies to lessen microbial population from dry surfaces.
Effects of Process Parameters On Tool Vibration And Force Transmissibility In High-Speed Micro-Milling Machine
Authors: Singh Chitransh , Das Arnab , Bajpai Vivek , Chandravanshi Madan Lal 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
High-speed micro-milling is an emerging technology used to produce micro and miniaturized products with smooth surface finish and high dimensional precision. However, tool vibration is a major problem in micro-milling as it directly affects the product accuracy, surface quality and tool life. Inappropriate selection of process parameters increases radial and axial thrust as well as force transmitted to structure during micro-machining which results in rapid tool vibration. This work focuses on the experimental investigation of process parameters (cutting speed and depth of cut) in order to reduce tool vibration due to axial and radial thrust in high-speed micro-milling. The tool used in this experiment is a 2-flute end mill cutter (1 mm cutter diameter) and workpiece is a commercially pure titanium (CpTi) plate. The operation was performed at different depth of cut and varying cutting speeds keeping the chip load constant. Vibration signals were acquired and processed to obtain the vibration thrust of the tool and the force transmitted to the structure. The results indicated that as the depth of cut and cutting speed increases, both axial as well as radial thrust decreases leading to lower vibration amplitude of the cutting tool and reduction in force transmitted to the machine structure.
A Standardized Implementation of Multicenter Quality Improvement Program of Very Low Birth Weight Newborns Could Significantly Reduce Admission Hypothermia and Improve Outcomes Within a Certain Region in China
Authors: Bi Shu-yu , Yu Yong-hui , Li Cong , Xu Ping , Xu Hai-yan , Li Jia-hui , Liu Qiong-yu , Li Min , Liu Xin-jian , Wang Hui 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Background: Admission hypothermia (AH, <36.5℃) remains a major challenge for global neonate survival, especially in China. Due to high incidence of reginal AH, we developed a prospective multicenter quality improvement (QI) initiative to reduce regional AH and evaluate the impact on outcome among VLBW neonates.Methods: The study used sequential Plan - Do - Study - Act (PDSA) approach. Clinical data were collected prospectively with 5 NICUs from Sino-Northern Neonatal Network (SNN) in China. Bundle come into practice since January 1, 2019. The clinical data in pre-QI phase (January 1, 2018– December 31, 2018) were compared with post-QI phase (January 1, 2019–December 31, 2020). Clinical characteristics and outcomes data were analysed.Results: A total of 750 in-born VLBW infants were enrolled in the study, 270 in pre-QI period and 480 in post- QI period, respectively. There had no significant differences in clinical characteristics in two phases. Compared with pre-QI period, the percentage of AH decreased in the QI period (95.9 %vs 71.3%, P < 0.01). Admission mod-severe hypothermia (AMSH) was improved significantly, reduced by 38.5% after QI (68.5 %vs 30%, P < 0.01). Average admission temperature improved after QI [36.0 ˚C（35.8˚C，36.5˚C）vs 35.5 ˚C（35.2 ˚C，36.0 ˚C）, P < 0.01 ]. No significant increase in AH rate and thermal burns (0.4%VS 0%). Risks of mortality and late-onset neonatal sepsis (LOS) were significantly lower in post-QI period as compared to pre-QI period (aRR 0.19, 95% CI 0.09–0.39; aRR 0.55, 95% CI 0.41–0.80) whether adjusting for birth weight (BW), gestational age (GA)，small for gestational age (SGA), Apgar score at 5 min < 7.Conclusion：Implementation of multicenter thermoregulatory QI help in significant reduction of AH and AMSH of VLBW neonates within a certain area, which in turn can help to improve reginal neonatal outcomes. We gained a lot from QI, learned and explored a suitable method to continuous QI, this may provide reference for similar developing countries.