bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Homoeolog expression bias and expression level dominance (ELD) in four tissues of natural allotetraploid Brassica napus
Authors: Li Mengdi , Wang Ruihua , Wu Xiaoming , Wang Jianbo 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Background

Allopolyploids were widespread in angiosperms, and they can coordinate two or more different genomes through genetic and epigenetic modification so as to show stronger growth vigor and adaptability. To explore the changes of homologous gene expression pattern in the natural allotetraploid Brassica napus (AnAnCnCn) relative to its two diploid progenitors, B. rapa (ArAr) and B. oleracea (CoCo), after about 7,500 years of domestication, the global gene pair expression patterns in four major tissues (stems, leaves, flowers and siliques) of these three species were analyzed using RNA sequencing approach.

Results

Results showed that the ‘transcriptomic shock’ phenomenon was alleviated in natural B. napus after about 7500 years of natural domestication, and most differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in B. napus were down-regulated relative to those in its two diploid progenitors. The KEGG analysis indicated that three pathways related to photosynthesis were enriched in both two comparison groups (AnAnCnCn vs ArAr and AnAnCnCn vs CoCo) and these pathways were all down-regulated in four tissues of B. napus. In addition, the homoeolog expression bias and expression level dominance (ELD) in B. napus were thoroughly studied through analysis the expression levels of 27609 B. rapa-B. oleracea orthologous gene pairs. The overwhelming majority of gene pairs (an average of 86.7%) in B. napus maintained their expression pattern in two diploid progenitors, and approximately 78.1% of the gene pairs showed expression bias with a preference toward the A subgenome. Overall, an average of 48%, 29.7% and 22.3% homologous gene pairs exhibited additivity expression, ELD and transgressive expression in B. napus, respectively. The ELD bias varies from tissue to tissue, specifically, more gene pairs in stems and siliques showed ELD-A, whereas the opposite was true in leaves and flowers. More transgressive up-regulation expression gene pairs were found in B. napus.

Conclusions

In general, these results can provide a comprehensive understanding of the changes of homologous gene expression patterns in natural B. napus after about 7,500 years of evolution and domestication, and enhance our understanding of allopolyploids.
Analyzing preferences for family doctor contract services in rural China: a study using discrete choice experiment
Authors: Fu peipei , Wang Yi , Liu Shimeng , Li Jiajia , Gao qiufeng , Zhou Chengchao , Meng Qingyue , Sylvia Sean 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Background

Preliminary evaluations have found that family doctor contract service has significantly controlled medical expenses, better managed chronic diseases, and increased patient satisfaction and service compliance. In 2016, China proposed the establishment of a family doctor system to carry out contract services, but studies have found uptake and utilization of these services to be limited. This study aimed to investigate rural resident preferences for FDCS from the public perspective in China.

Methods

A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was performed to elicit respondent preferences towards FDCS among rural residents in China. Attributes and levels were established based on literature review and qualitative methods. Five attributes consisted of cost, medicine availability, reimbursement rate, competence of the family doctor, and attitude of the family doctor were evaluated using mixed logit model.

Results

A total number of 609 residents were included in the main DCE analysis. Respondents valued high competence (coefficient 2.44, [SE 0.13]) and good attitude (coefficient 1.42, [SE 0.09]) of the family doctor most. Cost was negatively valued (coefficient -0.01, [SE 0.01]) as expected. Subgroup analysis was conducted after adjusting the interaction terms, we found that rural residents with chronic diseases prefer good attitude than those with no chronic diseases. The estimated willingness to pay (WTP) for “high” relative to “low” competence was 441.13 RMB/year and WTP for a provider with a “good” relative to a “poor” attitude was 255.77 RMB/year. Simulations suggest that, holding other factors constant, improving the competence of family doctors from poor to high had the largest effect on preference for signing the FDCS. We estimate that increasing the cost per year would reduce the uptake.

Conclusion

This present study suggested priorities should be given to strengthen and improve the quality of primary health care including family doctors’ competence and attitudes so as to increase the uptake of signing FDCS. The contract service package including annual cost, insurance reimbursement rate and individualized services should be redesigned and become congruent with residents with different health status and their stated preferences.
Molecular genetic diversity and differentiation of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus, L. 1758) in East African natural and stocked populations
Authors: Tibihika Papius Dias , Curto Manuel , Alemayehu Esayas , Waidbacher Herwig , Masembe Charles , Akoll Peter , Meimberg Harald 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Background

The need for enhancing the productivity of fisheries in Africa triggered the introduction of non-native fish, causing dramatic changes to local species. In East Africa, the extensive translocation of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is one of the major factors in this respect. Using 40 microsatellite loci with SSR-GBS techniques, we amplified a total of 664 individuals to investigate the genetic structure of O. niloticus from East Africa in comparison to Ethiopian and Burkina Faso populations.

Results

All three African regions were characterized by independent gene-pools, however, the Ethiopian population from lake Tana showed to be more divergent than expected suggesting that it might be a different species. In East Africa, the genetic structure was congruent with both geographical location and anthropogenic activities. O. niloticus from Lake Turkana (Kenya) was isolated, while in Uganda, despite populations being rather similar to each other, two main natural catchments were able to be defined. We show that these two groups contributed to the gene-pool of different non-native populations. Moreover, admixture and possible hybridization with other tilapiine species may have contributed to the genetic divergence found in some populations such as Lake Victoria. We detected other factors that might be affecting Nile tilapia genetic variation. For example, most of the populations have gone through a reduction of genetic diversity, which can be a consequence of bottleneck caused by overfishing, genetic erosion due to fragmentation or founder effect resulting from stoking activities.

Conclusions

The anthropogenic activities particularly in the East African O. niloticus translocations, promoted admixture and contact with the native congenerics which may contribute to outbreeding depression and hence compromising the sustainability of the species in the region.
A coprological survey of parasitic fauna firstly in Wild Far Eastern Leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis)
Authors: hou zhijun , Peng Zhiwei , Ning Yao , Jiang Guangshun 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Background：The Amur leopard, one of nine recently recognized subspecies of leopard, is still most threatened in a stochastic procession of extinction. The potential harmless to the conservation of the Amur leopard originating from the disease is in need of urgent attention. Unfortunately, the research on the potential risk to Amur leopard caused by disease is rare. When the parasites were concerned, even the elementary data, such as parasitic fauna, are absent. Our aim in the study is to accumulate the knowledge of it for a better comprehension.
Results: There are 7 parasite species, including 3 nematodes (Toxocara cati, capillarid-type parasite, and Metastrongyloidea-type parasite), 2 cestodes (Spirometra sp. and Taenia sp.), 1 trematode (Paragonimus sp.), and 1 protozoa (Cystoisospora felis), were found in this research. The Toxocara cati was highest frequent occurrence, followed by Spirometra sp.
Conclusion: The Amur leopard was infected by seven parasites firstly reported.
The relationships between bariatric surgery and sexual function: current evidence based medicine
Authors: Liu Shengzhuo , Cao Dehong , Ren Zhengju , Li Jinze , Peng Lei , Zhang Qin , Cheng Bo , Cheng Zheyu , Ai Jianzhong , Zheng Xiaonan , Liu Liangren , wei qiang 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Background

Controversial remains despite several studies have discussed the role of bariatric surgery for ameliorating male’s sexual function. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of bariatric surgery in promoting male`s erectile function.

Methods

We performed a systematic review according to PubMed, EMbase, The Cochrane Library, CNKI and Clinical Trails.gov searching for eligible studies and conducted a meta-analysis to compare the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score or Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory (BSFI) score preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results

11 articles were included in this study. The meta-analysis showed bariatric surgery was associated with significantly improvement in the IIEF score (erectile function: MD = 5.33, 95% CI 4.12-6.54; intercourse satisfaction: MD = 2.57, 95% CI 1.19-3.94; orgasmic function: MD = 0.50, 95%CI 0.60-0.94; overall satisfaction: MD = 1.67, 95% CI 0.78-2.56; sexual desire: MD = 1.27, 95% CI 0.61- 1.93; total erectile function: MD = 7.21, 95% CI 4.33-10.10) and the BSFI score (erection: MD =2.53, 95% CI 2.39-2.67; ejaculation: MD = 1.40, 95% CI 1.28-1.51; desire: MD =1.40, 95% CI 1.32-1.49; problem assessment: MD = 2.20, 95% CI 2.06-2.34; sexual satisfaction: MD = 0.70, 95% CI 0.60-0.76).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, although the mechanism how Bariatric surgery helps improving male`s erectile function is not well interpreted yet, it`s supported by our results that bariatric surgery may be effective in sexual function promoting for obese individuals.
Low health literacy levels in patients with chronic retinal disease
Authors: Jandorf Sofie , Nielsen Marie Krogh , Sørensen Kristine , Sørensen Torben Lykke 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Background

A patient’s health literacy is fundamental for navigating the health system and managing disease. This study aimed to compare the health literacy levels of patients with chronic retinal disease in Denmark.

Methods

This cross-sectional questionnaire study used the validated HLS-EU-Q16 questionnaire to determine the health literacy of 225 patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME) or retinal vein occlusion (RVO), receiving intravitreal treatment at the retinal clinic, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark. Patients were consecutively included as participants for the study. All patients had the option of having the survey read aloud to them.

Results

Health literacy levels between the patient groups did not differ significantly, however, the proportion of patients with poor health literacy was high—65% of AMD patients, 73% of DME patients, and 63% of patients with RVO.

Conclusions

Low health literacy of patients with retinal disease signify a need for more health literacy research in the field of retinal diseases, to secure that patients have the timely and appropriate knowledge and competencies to manage their condition.
Pembuatan Bioplastik dari Kitosan dan Sorbitol dengan Penambahan Minyak Atsiri Serai
Authors: Nanda Kharisma Putri , Azizati Zidni 
Published: July 2019

<em>Plastik merupakan bahan yang banyak digunakan dalam kehidupan, namun plastik juga menjadi permasalahan skala global yakni sampah plastik karena plastik yang bersal dari bahan baku minyak bumi sulit untuk diuraikan. Sehingga dibutuhkan plastik yang ramah lingkungan (bioplastik). Dalam penelitian ini dilakukan pembuatan bioplastik dari kitosan dan sobitol sebagai pemplastis serta minyak atsiri serai sebagai insektisida nabati. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mempelajari sifat mekanik bioplastik. Bioplastik yang dihasilkan dilakukan mengujian mekanik kuat tarik (tensile strenght) dan perpanjangan (elongasi).Hasil penelitian menunjukkan penambahan 1 mL minyak atsiri serai berpengaruh terhadap sifat mekanik bioplastik dengan nilai kuat tarik dan elongasi bioplastik eksperimen masing-masing sebesar 3.50 Mpa dan 7.54% dari nilai biplastik kontrol masing-masing sebesar 1.427 Mpa dan 3.97%</em>
Non-linear Relationship between Tacrolimus Blood Concentration and Acute Rejection After Kidney Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Yin Saifu , Song Turun , Li Xingxing , Xu Hanyue , Zhang Xueling , Jiang Yamei , Lin Tao 
Published: July 2019

Background:Maintaining the exposure of tacrolimus (Tac) after kidney transplantation (KT) must be necessary to prevent acute rejection (AR) and improve graft survival，but there is still no clear consensus on the optimal Tac target blood concentration and concentration-effect relationship is poorly defined.Methods:We conducted a dose-response meta-analysis to quantitatively assess the association between Tac blood concentration and (AR) or adverse effects after KT. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library databases was conducted to find eligible studies up to 10th September 2018. Unpublished data from patients receiving KT in West China Hospital (Sichuan University, China) were also collected. Both twostage dose-response and one-stage dose-response meta-analysis models were used to improve the statistical power.Results:A total of 4967 individuals from 10 original studies and 1453 individuals from West China Hospital were eligible for the ultimate analysis. In the two-stage dose-response meta-analysis model, we observed a significant non-linear relationship between Tac blood concentration and AR (P < 0.001) with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 46.0%, P = 0.08). Tac blood concentration at 8ng/ml was associated with the lowest risk of AR (RR: 0.26, 95%CI: 0.13 - 0.54) by reference to 2ng/ml. Tac concentration at 7.0 - 11.0 ng/ml reduced the risk of AR by at least 70%, 5-14 ng/ml by at least 60%, and 4.5 – 14 ng/ml at least 50%. In the one-stage dose-response model, we also found a strong non-linear relationship between Tac and AR (P < 0.001) with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 41.2%, P = 0.10). Tac concentration of 7.5 ng/ml was associated with the lowest risk of AR (RR: 0.35, 95%CI: 0.16 - 0.77). The blood concentration at 5.5 - 9.5 ng/ml was associated with the reduced AR by at least 60% and 4.5 - 10.5 ng/ml by at least 50% by reference to 2 ng/ml.Conclusion:Maintaining Tac blood concentration at 5 - 9.5 ng/ml within the first year may prevent AR most effectively.
Polyphenols Regulate Endothelial Functions and Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Yamagata Kazuo 
Published: July 2019

Background:
Previous studies have shown that intake of polyphenols through the consumption of
vegetables and fruits reduces the risk of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) by potentially influencing endothelial cell
function.

Objective:
In this review, the effects and molecular mechanisms of plant polyphenols, particularly resveratrol,
epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and quercetin, on endothelial functions, and their putative protective effects
against CVD are described.

Methods:
Epidemiologic studies examined the effect of the CVD risk of vegetables and the fruit. Furthermore,
studies within vitro models investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms of the action of the flavonoid class
of polyphenols. These findings help elucidate the effect of polyphenols on endothelial function and CVD risk
reduction.

Results:
Epidemiologic and in vitro studies have demonstrated that the consumption of vegetables and fruits
decreases the incidence of CVDs. Furthermore, it has also been indicated that dietary polyphenols are inversely
related to the risk of CVD. Resveratrol, EGCG, and quercetin prevent oxidative stress by regulating the expression
of oxidase and the antioxidant enzyme genes, contributing to the prevention of stroke, hypertension, heart
failure, and ischemic heart disease.

Conclusion:
High intake of dietary polyphenols may help prevent CVD. Polyphenols inhibit endothelial dysfunction
and induce vascular endothelium-dependent vascular relaxation viz. redox regulation and nitric oxide production.
The polyphenol-induced healthy endothelial cell function may be related to CVD prevention.
Vitamin D and Cardio-Metabolic Risk Factors in Overweight Adults: An Overview of the Evidence
Authors: Valer-Martinez Ana , Martinez J. Alfredo , Sayon-Orea Carmen , Galvano Fabio , Grosso Giuseppe , Bes-Rastrollo Maira 
Published: July 2019

Background:Several studies have suggested a potential association between low vitamin D serum levels and several pathological conditions apart from the well-known bone disorders. Thus, vitamin D insufficiency has been linked to cardiometabolic risk factors including obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, as well as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.Objective:This review intends to provide an overview of recent evidence from clinical studies on vitamin D [25- hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D)] and cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight adults. Furthermore, we also discussed potential mechanisms and limits of the retrieved results.Methods:The search process was based on the selection of publications (RCT) listed in PubMed and Cochrane Library databases.Results:Vitamin D status evidenced an inversely strong association with subcutaneous adipose tissue and visceral adiposity, but not significantly related to other bodyweight measures (i.e., body mass index). Studies have shown a potential inverse association of hypovitaminosis D with insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk factors.Conclusion:The mechanisms by which vitamin D deficiency enhances adiposity, as well as putative association with metabolic syndrome features, remain still unclear. Further investigation would be required to conclude whether vitamin D has an independent role in preventing cardiometabolic disorders.
Sarcopenia in Ovarian Cancer Patients, Oncologic Outcomes Revealing the Importance of Clinical Nutrition: Review of Literature
Authors: Cianci Stefano , Rumolo Valerio , Rosati Andrea , Scaletta Giuseppe , Alletti Salvatore Gueli , Cerentini Taís Marques , Sleiman Zaki , Lordelo Patricia , Angerame Daniela , Garganese Giorgia , Uccella Stefano , Tarascio Mattia , Scambia Giovanni 
Published: July 2019

Introduction:Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death among gynecological malignancies. Its usual clinical manifestation is at advanced stages, with nutritional impairment, weight loss, and a consequent decline in skeletal muscle mass and strength (defined as sarcopenia). The relationship between sarcopenia and decreased survival was demonstrated not only in ovarian cancer but also in other cancer types, such as hepatocellular, pancreatic, lung, colon, cervical, metastatic breast, and renal cancer. The aim of this study is to review the current evidence regarding the relationship between sarcopenia and the surgical and oncological outcomes in ovarian cancer patients.Methods:The systematic search was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRSIMA) statement. The terms “SARCOPENIA” AND “OVARIAN CANCER” were systematically used to search PubMed and Scopus databases. Original reports in English language were identified, with the purpose to include all relevant papers regarding the role of sarcopenia and indicators of skeletal muscle quality assessment in gynecological ovarian cancer.Results:A total of 9 studies were considered eligible for the present review. The strength of recommendation was moderate and the level of evidence was low in all selected articles. No prospective studies were conducted and most of the papers were case-control series comparing ovarian cancer sarcopenic population vs. non sarcopenic population.Conclusion:Sarcopenia appears to have an important role in oncological outcomes of ovarian cancer patients. However, sarcopenia occurrence during disease history and mechanisms underlying the possible impairment in prognosis should be better investigated. Prospective trials are awaited in order to obtain a better insight in this topic.
Expression Profile of VEGF-C, VEGF-D, and VEGFR-3 in Different Grades of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Oplawski Marcin , Dziobek Konrad , Zmarzły Nikola , Grabarek Beniamin , Halski Tomasz , Januszyk Piotr , Kuś-Kierach Agnieszka , Adwent Iwona , Dąbruś Dariusz , Kiełbasiński Kamil , Boroń Dariusz 
Published: July 2019

Background:Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C, -D, and VEGF receptor-3 are proteins characterized as crucial for tumor lymphangiogenesis. It is accompanied by angiogenesis during wound healing, but also in the neoplastic process. The research studies have shown that the lymphatic system plays a key role in the progression of carcinogenesis.Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the expression of VEGF-C, VEGF-D and VEGFR-3 in different grades of endometrial cancer (G1-G3).Methods:The study included 45 patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer (G1=17; G2=15; G3=13) and 15 patients without neoplastic changes. The expression of VEGF-C, VEGF-D, and VEGFR-3 was assessed using microarray technique and immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis was performed using the one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test.Results:Statistically significant changes in the expression at the transcriptome level were found only in the case of VEGF-C (G1 vs. C, fold change - FC = -1.15; G2 vs. C, FC = -2.33; G3 vs. C, FC = - 1.68). However, VEGF-D and VEGFR-3 were expressed at the protein level. Analysis of VEGF-D expression showed that the optical density of the reaction product in G1 reached 101.7, while the values in G2 and G3 were 142.7 and 184.4, respectively. For VEGF-R3, the optical density of the reaction product reached the following levels: 72 in control, 118.77 in G1, 145.8 in G2, and 170.9 in G3.Conclusion:: An increase in VEGF-D and VEGFR-3 levels may indicate that VEGF-D-dependent processes are intensified along with the dedifferentiation of tumor cells. The lack of VEGF-C expression in endometrial cancer samples may suggest that this tumor is characterized by a different mechanism of metastasis than EMT. Our study emphasizes that when analyzing the metastatic potential of cancer, the expression of more than one factor should be taken into account.