bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In-vitro differentiation of early pig spermatogenic cells to haploid germ cells
Authors: Yu Kun , Zhang Yi , Zhang Bao-Lu , Wu Han-Yu , Jiang Wu-Qi , Wang Su-Tian , Han De-Ping , Liu Yi-Xun , Lian Zheng-Xing , Deng Shou-Long 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) self-renew and contribute genetic information to the next generation. Pig is wildly used as a model animal for understanding reproduction mechanisms of human being. Inducing directional differentiation of porcine SSCs may be an important strategy in exploring the mechanisms of spermatogenesis and developing better treatment methods for male infertility. Here, we established an in-vitro culture model for porcine small seminiferous tubule segments, to induce SSCs to differentiate into single-tail haploid spermatozoa. The culture model subsequently enabled spermatozoa to express the sperm-specific protein acrosin and oocytes to develop to blastocyst stage after round spermatid injection. The addition of retinoic acid (RA) to the differentiation media promoted the efficiency of haploid differentiation. RT-PCR analysis indicated that RA stimulated the expression of Stra8 but reduced the expression of NANOS2 in spermatogonia. Genes involved in post-meiotic development, transition protein 1 (Tnp1) and protamine 1 (Prm1) were upregulated in the presence of RA. The addition of an RA receptor (RAR) inhibitor, BMS439, showed that RA enhanced the expression of cAMP responsive-element binding protein through RAR and promoted the formation of round spermatids. We established an efficient culture system for in-vitro differentiation of pig SSCs. Our study represents a model for human testis disease and toxicology screening. Molecular regulators of SSC differentiation revealed in this study might provide a therapeutic strategy for male infertility.
DAXX in cancer: phenomena, processes, mechanisms and regulation
Authors: Mahmud Iqbal , Liao Daiqing 
Published: July 2019

AbstractDAXX displays complex biological functions. Remarkably, DAXX overexpression is a common feature in diverse cancers, which correlates with tumorigenesis, disease progression and treatment resistance. Structurally, DAXX is modular with an N-terminal helical bundle, a docking site for many DAXX interactors (e.g. p53 and ATRX). DAXX’s central region folds with the H3.3/H4 dimer, providing a H3.3-specific chaperoning function. DAXX has two functionally critical SUMO-interacting motifs. These modules are connected by disordered regions. DAXX’s structural features provide a framework for deciphering how DAXX mechanistically imparts its functions and how its activity is regulated. DAXX modulates transcription through binding to transcription factors, epigenetic modifiers, and chromatin remodelers. DAXX’s localization in the PML nuclear bodies also plays roles in transcriptional regulation. DAXX-regulated genes are likely important effectors of its biological functions. Deposition of H3.3 and its interactions with epigenetic modifiers are likely key events for DAXX to regulate transcription, DNA repair, and viral infection. Interactions between DAXX and its partners directly impact apoptosis and cell signaling. DAXX’s activity is regulated by posttranslational modifications and ubiquitin-dependent degradation. Notably, the tumor suppressor SPOP promotes DAXX degradation in phase-separated droplets. We summarize here our current understanding of DAXX’s complex functions with a focus on how it promotes oncogenesis.
Systems biology-based investigation of cooperating microRNAs as monotherapy or adjuvant therapy in cancer
Authors: Lai Xin , Eberhardt Martin , Schmitz Ulf , Vera Julio 
Published: July 2019

AbstractMicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression by suppressing mRNA translation and reducing mRNA stability. A miRNA can potentially bind many mRNAs, thereby affecting the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes as well as the activity of whole pathways. The promise of miRNA therapeutics in cancer is to harness this evolutionarily conserved mechanism for the coordinated regulation of gene expression, and thus restoring a normal cell phenotype. However, the promiscuous binding of miRNAs can provoke unwanted off-target effects, which are usually caused by high-dose single-miRNA treatments. Thus, it is desirable to develop miRNA therapeutics with increased specificity and efficacy. To achieve that, we propose the concept of miRNA cooperativity in order to exert synergistic repression on target genes, thus lowering the required total amount of miRNAs. We first review miRNA therapies in clinical application. Next, we summarize the knowledge on the molecular mechanism and biological function of miRNA cooperativity and discuss its application in cancer therapies. We then propose and discuss a systems biology approach to investigate miRNA cooperativity for the clinical setting. Altogether, we point out the potential of miRNA cooperativity to reduce off-target effects and to complement conventional, targeted, or immune-based therapies for cancer.
High Prevalence of Developmental Venous Anomaly in Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Gliomas: A Pediatric Control Study
Authors: Roux Alexandre , Boddaert Nathalie , Grill Jacques , Castel David , Zanello Marc , Zah-Bi Gilles , Chrétien Fabrice , Lefevre Etienne , Ros Volodia Dangouloff , Zerah Michel , Puget Stéphanie , Pallud Johan , Varlet Pascale 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

BACKGROUND
No link has been demonstrated between diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma and developmental venous anomaly in pediatric patients.

OBJECTIVE
To determine the prevalence of developmental venous anomaly in a pediatric cohort of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.

METHODS
We performed a retrospective cohort study (1998-2017) of consecutive pediatric patients harboring a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (experimental set, n = 162) or a craniopharyngioma (control set, n = 142) in a tertiary pediatric neurosurgical center. The inclusion criteria were the following: age <18 yr at diagnosis; histopathological diagnosis of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma or craniopharyngioma according to the 2016 World Health Organization classification of tumors of the central nervous system; no previous oncological treatment; and available preoperative magnetic resonance imaging performed with similar acquisition protocol.

RESULTS
We found a significantly higher prevalence of developmental venous anomaly in the experimental set of 162 diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (24.1%) than in the control set of 142 craniopharyngiomas (10.6%; P = .001). The prevalence of developmental venous anomalies was not significantly impacted by demographic data (sex, age at diagnosis, and underlying pathological condition), biomolecular analysis (H3-K27M-mutant subgroup, H3.1-K27M-mutant subgroup, and H3.3-K27M-mutant subgroup), or imaging findings (anatomic location, anatomic extension, side, and obstructive hydrocephalus) of the studied diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas.

CONCLUSION
We report a higher prevalence of developmental venous anomaly in pediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma patients than in control patients, which suggests a potential underlying common predisposition or a causal relationship that will require deeper investigations.
Role of Resistivity Index Analysis in the Prediction of Hemodynamically Significant Venous Sinus Stenosis in Patient With Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Mohammaden Mahmoud H , Husain Muhammad Rizwan , Brunozzi Denise , Hussein Ahmed E , Atwal Gursant , Charbel Fady T , Alaraj Ali 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

BACKGROUND
The resistivity index (RI) in cerebral venous sinus stenosis (VSS) has not been studied in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the role of RI measured by quantitative magnetic resonance venogram (QMRV) as a noninvasive tool in the diagnosis of venous hypertension associated with VSS in IIH.

METHODS
Retrospective evaluation of 13 consecutive IIH patients who underwent venous sinus stenting at our institution between 2013 and 2018.
Patients’ demographics, clinical presentation, cerebral mean venous sinus pressure (MVP), and RI both pre- and poststenting were recorded. The baseline RI was also compared to a control group.

RESULTS
Among 13 patients of IIH, 11 had unilateral VSS in dominant sinus, whereas 2 had bilateral VSS. RI was significantly higher in IIH patients compared to the control group in the superior sagittal (SSS) and transverse sinuses (TS) (0.21 vs 0.11, P = .01 and 0.22 vs 0.13, P = .03, respectively). The MVP (in mm Hg) decreased significantly after venous sinus stenting in the SSS (41.9 to 22.5, P < .001) and TS (39.4 to 19.5, P < .001), which was also associated with a significant reduction of the RI (0.22 vs 0.17, P < .01 in SSS and 0.23 vs 0.17, P = .03 in TS) poststenting.

CONCLUSION
RI calculated using QMRV can serve as a noninvasive tool to aid in the diagnosis of hemodynamically significant VSS. The study had a small sample size, and larger multicenter studies would be required to validate the results further.
Multielectron transportation of polyoxometalate-grafted metalloporphyrin coordination frameworks for selective CO2-to-CH4 photoconversion
Authors: Huang Qing , Liu Jiang , Feng Liang , Wang Qi , Guan Wei , Dong Long-Zhang , Zhang Lei , Yan Li-Kai , Lan Ya-Qian , Zhou Hong-Cai 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Photocatalytic CO2 reduction into energy carriers is of utmost importance due to the rising concentrations of CO2 and the depleting energy resource. However, the highly selective generation of desirable hydrocarbon fuel, such as methane (CH4), from CO2 remains extremely challenging. Herein, we present two stable polyoxometalate-grafted metalloporphyrin coordination frameworks (POMCFs), which are constructed with reductive Zn-ϵ-Keggin clusters and photosensitive tetrakis(4-carboxylphenyl)porphyrin (H2TCPP) linkers, exhibiting high selectivity (&gt;96%) for CH4 formation in a photocatalytic CO2-reduction system. To our knowledge, the high CH4 selectivity of POMCFs has surpassed all of the reported coordination-framework-based heterogeneous photocatalysts for CO2-to-CH4 conversion. Significantly, the introduction of a Zn-ϵ-keggin cluster with strong reducing ability is the important origin for POMCFs to obtain high photocatalytic selectivity for CH4 formation, considering that eight MoV atoms can theoretically donate eight electrons to fulfill the multielectron reduction process of CO2-to-CH4 transformation.
Understanding the Association Between Spontaneous Quit Attempts and Improved Smoking Cessation Success Rates: A Population Survey in England With 6-Month Follow-up
Authors: Garnett Claire , Shahab Lion , Raupach Tobias , West Robert , Brown Jamie 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Introduction
Almost half of smoking quit attempts are “spontaneous” (initiated as soon as the decision to quit has been made) and are associated with increased success rates. This study aimed to assess to what extent other factors may account for this association.

Methods
Data were used from respondents to a survey representative of the adult population in England from 2006 to 2016. We included 2018 respondents who were current smokers at baseline and had attempted to quit between baseline and 6-month follow-up. Logistic regression models assessed the association between quit success and spontaneous quit attempts while adjusting for smoking, sociodemographic, and quit attempt characteristics.

Results
Spontaneous quit attempts were associated with greater odds of quit success (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.07 to 1.60) but the association was not significant in the fully adjusted model (ORadj = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.95 to 1.49). In this adjusted model, those who attempted to quit without cutting down first (ORadj = 3.08, 95% CI = 2.46 to 3.88) and were male (ORadj = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.16 to 1.80) had greater odds of success; although a greater number of attempts in the past 6 months, stronger urges to smoke (strong vs. none), higher daily cigarette consumption, and lower social grade (E vs. AB) were associated with lower odds of success (ORadj range = 0.32–0.98, p &lt; .030). Quit attempts made without cutting down first were correlated with spontaneous quit attempts (r = .150, p &lt; .001) and appeared to account for the diminished association between spontaneous quitting and success (ORadj = 1.18, 95% CI = 0.96 to 1.46).

Conclusions
The increased success rate of spontaneous quit attempts appears to be because spontaneous quit attempts are more likely to be made without cutting down first.

Implications
The apparent benefit of spontaneous over planned quit attempts may be attributable to the former being more likely to involve quitting without cutting down first (ie, abrupt cessation) than cutting down first (ie, gradual cessation) and so this may be a more useful target for advice to improve the chances of successful quitting.
Evaluation of a trauma therapy programme within emergency service organizations
Authors: Tehrani N 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Background
Occupational health practitioners working in emergency services, where employees are exposed to a higher level of physical or psychological trauma, need to be able to access trauma therapy programmes which are economically viable and effective in reducing post-traumatic stress disorder and associated symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Aims
The aim of this review is to provide evidence on benefits of a short-term organizational programme of trauma therapy using NICE (2018) [1] recommended interventions.

Methods
The review examined the pre- and post-therapy clinical scores from 429 emergency service professionals (ESPs) who were employed in five police forces, two fire and two ambulance services. The ESPs in higher risk roles were in a psychological surveillance programme, with those found to be experiencing clinically significant levels of trauma-related symptoms being referred to a psychologist for an assessment which identified the ESPs requiring trauma therapy. At the end of the therapy, the symptoms of the ESPs were re-assessed, and the scores before and after the therapy were compared.

Results
The results showed a significant improvement in the level of symptoms, with 81% of ESPs no longer exhibiting clinically significant trauma symptoms and 6% showing an increase in symptoms. In addition, the clinical results also showed improvements in ESPs’ perceived work capacity and quality of social relationships.

Conclusions
The findings indicate that there are clinical and personal benefits to using an organizationally based short-term model of trauma therapy in an emergency service setting.
The classical monetary theory on bank liquidity and finance
Authors: Le Maux Laurent 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThis article investigates the classical monetary theory on bank liquidity and finance and especially the contribution of Thomas Tooke, John Stuart Mill and John Fullarton at the light of the debate on the Great Recession. These authors show how financial markets and banking system may collapse altogether after a rise of values in certain classes of securities or real estate markets. And they come to the view that competition between commercial banks creates the appearance of market discipline, while the expectation of scarcity in some specific markets leads to a speculative process, which in turn destabilizes the banking system and triggers the need for the lender of last resort.
Noninvasive Diagnosis of Infection Using Plasma Next-Generation Sequencing: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Rossoff Jenna , Chaudhury Sonali , Soneji Maulin , Patel Sameer J , Kwon Soyang , Armstrong Amy , Muller William J 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Pediatric patients frequently present with illnesses strongly suggesting infection, but without a clearly identified etiology. Our center has recently added a commercially available plasma metagenomic sequencing assay to its available diagnostic testing. Our experience with the first 100 tests suggests that this technology has good clinical performance with &gt;90% sensitivity.
The Effect of Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation on the Vaginal Microbiome in HIV-Infected Women
Authors: Liu Cindy M , Packman Zoe R , Abraham Alison G , Serwadda David M , Nalugoda Fred , Aziz Maliha , Prodger Jessica L , Kaul Rupert , Kalibbala Sarah , Gray Ronald H , Price Lance B , Quinn Thomas C , Tobian Aaron Ar , Reynolds Steven J 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Background
The impact of antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation on the vaginal microbiome is unknown. This is of particular importance among women living in sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding this relationship could help elucidate if and how the host immune system interacts with the vaginal microbiome.

Methods
The vaginal microbiome of HIV-1/HSV-2-coinfected women (n = 92) in Uganda was evaluated from self-collected vaginal swabs 1 month pre-ART and at 4 and 6 months post–ART initiation. The vaginal microbiome was characterized by 16S rRNA gene-based sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Vaginal community state types (CSTs) were identified using proportional abundance data. Changes in microbiome composition were assessed with permutational analyses of variance (PerMANOVA).

Results
Five vaginal CSTs were identified, which varied significantly by bacterial load (P &lt; .01): CST-1 was characterized by Lactobacillus iners, CST-2 by Gardnerella, CST-3 by Gardnerella and Prevotella, CST-4 by Lactobacillus crispatus, and CST-5 was highly diverse. Vaginal microbiome composition also did not change significantly after ART initiation (P = .985). Immune reconstitution after ART initiation did not affect vaginal microbiome CST assignment (P = .722) or individual-level changes in bacterial load (log response ratio [interquartile range], –0.50 [–2.75 to 0.38] vs –0.29 [–2.03 to 1.42]; P = .40).

Conclusions
The vaginal microbiome of HIV-infected women was not affected by the initiation of ART or immune reconstitution in this observational study. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of ART treatment on the vaginal microbiome.
Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Human Hepegivirus 1 Infection in Patients With Hepatitis C
Authors: Sridhar Siddharth , Yip Cyril C Y , Chew Nicholas F S , Wu Shusheng , Leung Kit-Hang , Chan Jasper F W , Cheng Vincent C C , Yuen Kwok-Yung 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Background
Transmission of human hepegivirus 1 (HHpgV-1), a novel human pegivirus, is closely associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The impact of HHpgV-1 viremia on HCV infection is unknown. This study aimed to (a) evaluate the impact of HHpgV-1 viremia on HCV viral load and liver injury and (b) elucidate the clinical and molecular epidemiology of HHpgV-1 infection.

Methods
Individuals with HHpgV-1 viremia (cases) were identified by screening plasma from 655 HCV-infected adults. HHpgV-1 isolates were sequenced for phylogenetic analysis, and viral load was quantified. Cases were age- and sex-matched to HCV-infected individuals without HHpgV-1 viremia (controls) in a 1:3 ratio. A retrospective case–control analysis was performed to identify differences in HCV viral load and parameters of liver injury.

Results
Among HCV-infected adults, 16/655 (2.4%) had HHpgV-1 viremia. Risk groups for HHpgV-1 infection included intravenous drug users, blood product recipients, tattoo recipients, and men who have sex with men. Viral sequences clustered into 2 distinct HHpgV-1 genogroups. Cases had a higher mean HCV viral load than controls, with difference between means of 0.58 log10 IU/mL (P = .009). Cases were more likely to have an HCV viral load &gt;5 log10 IU/mL (P = .028). Multiple regression demonstrated the impact of HHpgV-1 viral load and infection status on HCV viral load. HHpgV-1 infection was not associated with higher liver function tests, fibrosis scores, or imaging abnormalities.

Conclusions
HHpgV-1 viremia is associated with a higher HCV viral load in co-infected patients. HHpgV-1 infection does not affect progression of HCV-related liver disease.
Impact of the M184V/I Mutation on the Efficacy of Abacavir/Lamivudine/Dolutegravir Therapy in HIV Treatment-Experienced Patients
Authors: Olearo Flaminia , Nguyen Huyen , Bonnet Fabrice , Yerly Sabine , Wandeler Gilles , Stoeckle Marcel , Cavassini Matthias , Scherrer Alexandra , Costagiola Dominique , Schmid Patrick , Günthard Huldrych F , Bernasconi Enos , Boeni Jürg , D’arminio Monforte Antonella , Zazzi Maurizio , Rossetti Barbara , Neau Didier , Bellecave Pantxika , Rijnders Bart , Reiss Peter , Wit Ferdinand , Kouyos Roger , Calmy Alexandra 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Objective
The impact of the M184V/I mutation on the virological failure (VF) rate in HIV-positive patients with suppressed viremia switching to an abacavir/lamivudine/dolutegravir regimen has been poorly evaluated.

Method
This is an observational study from 5 European HIV cohorts among treatment-experienced adults with ≤50 copies/mL of HIV-1 RNA who switched to abacavir/lamivudine/dolutegravir. Primary outcome was the time to first VF (2 consecutive HIV-1 RNA &gt;50 copies/mL or single HIV-1 RNA &gt;50 copies/mL accompanied by change in antiretroviral therapy [ART]). We also analyzed a composite outcome considering the presence of VF and/or virological blips. We report also the results of an inverse probability weighting analysis on a restricted population with a prior history of VF on any ART regimen to calculate statistics standardized to the disparate sampling population.

Results
We included 1626 patients (median follow-up, 288.5 days; interquartile range, 154–441). Patients with a genotypically documented M184V/I mutation (n = 137) had a lower CD4 nadir and a longer history of antiviral treatment. The incidence of VF was 29.8 cases (11.2–79.4) per 1000 person-years in those with a previously documented M184V/I, and 13.6 cases (8.4–21.8) in patients without documented M184V/I. Propensity score weighting in a restricted population (n = 580) showed that M184V/I was not associated with VF or the composite endpoint (hazard ratio [HR], 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.35–4.59 and HR 1.66; 95% CI, 0.81–3.43, respectively).

Conclusions
In ART-experienced patients switching to an abacavir/lamivudine/dolutegravir treatment, we observed few VFs and found no evidence for an impact of previously-acquired M184V/I mutation on this outcome. Additional analyses are required to demonstrate whether these findings will remain robust during a longer follow-up.