bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Gut Microbiota and Seleno-Compound as Emerging Risk Factors for Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Tsai Chin-Feng , Huang Pang-Shuo , Shih Ching-Yu , Tsai Mong-Hsun , Hwang Juey-Jen , Tsai Chia-Ti , Chuang Eric Y. , Chang Sheng-Nan
Published: June 2021

BackgroundIt has been seemed that the gut microbiome alterations might be proposed as the metabolic disorder. However, the relationship between the microbiome and AMI has not been well validated. Methods The feces of the 44 subjects (AMI: 19; control: 25) were collected for fecal genomic DNAs extraction. The variable region V3–V4 of the 16S rRNA gene was sequencing by the platform of Illumina Miseq. The abundances of metabolites were analyzed by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) metabolic pathways. ResultsThe abundance of bacteria was more enriched in the AMI group both in the observed operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and faith phylogenetic diversity (PD) (p-value=0.01 and <0.001 with 95% CI, individually). Selenomonadales was less enriched in the AMI group at the Family, Genus, and Species levels [all linear discriminant analysis (LDA) scores >2]. The seleno-compound was more abundant in the AMI group at the Family, Genus, and Species levels (all LDA scores >2).Conclusions This is the first study to demonstrate Selenomonadales and seleno-compound to be associated with the occurrence of AMI. Our findings provide an opportunity for a novel prevention and treatment of AMI.
Force Model for Complex Profile Tool in Broaching Inconel 718
Authors: Ni Jing , Tong Kangcheng , Meng Zhen , Feng Kai
Published: June 2021

Complex profile broaches are widely used in the manufacture of complex parts of aero-engines, but their cutting forces in the broaching process are difficult to predict and control. A new numerical model for broaching force with complex profile tools is presented, which considers the area and arc length of curved shear zone projection. The area and arc length were calculated by the curve function of the projection plane, which is firstly predicted by FEM simulation. Compared with the conventional force model, the accuracy of the modified model has been moderately improved. Ultimately, the modified main broaching force (Y-direction) model and the modified normal force (Z-direction) model show a significant improvement in accuracy by 4.8% and 9.7%, respectively. It suggests that the projection area of curved shear zone A1 and the projection arc length of curved shear zone l1 have a big impact on the broaching process. Moreover, the modified model proposed in this paper can provide guidance for the design of complex profile tools and facilitate the efficient and high-precision machining of complex parts.
The Bovine Foot Skin Microbiota is Associated with Host Genotype and the Development of Infectious Digital Dermatitis Lesions
Authors: Bay V. , Gillespie A. , Ganda E.K. , Evans Nicholas , Carter Stuart , Lenzi L. , Lucaci A. , Haldenby S. , Barden M. , Griffiths B.E. , Sánchez-Molano E. , Bicalho R. , Banos G. , Darby A. , Oikonomou Georgios
Published: June 2021

Bovine Digital Dermatitis (BDD) is a prevalent infectious disease, causing painful foot skin lesions and lameness in cattle. The polymicrobial nature of this disease has led to the hypothesis that the foot skin microbiota may be associated with occurrence and progression of lesions. We describe herein the bovine foot skin microbiota using 16S rRNA gene amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing on samples from 259 dairy cows from three UK dairy farms. We show differences in the foot skin microbiome profiles of clinically healthy animals that were associated with subsequent development of BDD. We also present the first co-occurrence analysis of the bovine foot skin microbiome showing ecological relationships among bacterial species. Taxonomical and functional differences together with alterations in ecological interactions between bacteria in the normal foot skin microbiome may predispose an animal to develop BDD lesions. Using genome-wide association and regional heritability mapping approaches, we provide first evidence for interactions between host genotype and the foot skin microbiota profiles. We show the existence of genetic variation in the relative abundance of Treponema spp. and Peptoclostridium spp. and identify regions in the bovine genome that explain a significant proportion of this variation.
Gut Microbiome-Based Diagnostic Model to Predict Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Yang Hai-Tao , Xiu Wen-Juan , Liu Jing-Kun , Yang Yi , Zheng Ying-Ying , Hou Xian-Geng , Wu Ting-Ting , wu chengxin , Xie Xiang
Published: June 2021

Introduction: In this study, our aim is to describe the intestinal microbiome structure of diabetes, and to establish a diagnostic model of diabetes mellitus based on intestinal microorganisms.Methods: The experimental group included 44 patients with diabetes, while the control group included 47 healthy patients without statistical differences in age, gender, smoking, drinking alcohol and other basic diseases after matching. Firstly, their population information, biochemical indicators, and stool samples were collected. Subsequently, the stool samples were conducted the next-generation sequencing of the 16S rRNA genes of fecal bacteria.Results: In this study, there were significant differences in alpha-diversity and beta-diversity between the two groups. Moreover, the differences within the group were analyzed by Adnois, finding that R2=0.031 and P=0.001. Through the LEfSe differential bacteria analysis, it was found that the distribution of differential bacteria between the two groups was significantly abnormal. Among them, the abundances of the genus faecalibacterium, the genus Prevotella, and the genus Roseburia were higher in the diabetes group, while the abundances of the genus Shigella and the genus Bifidobacterium were lower. In the correlation analysis between bacteria and clinical indicators, it was found that the genus Veillonella and the genus unclassified_Enterobacteriaceae were negatively related to blood glucose, while the genus Phascolarctobacterium, the genus unidentified_Bacteroidales and the genus Prevotella were significantly positively correlated with fasting blood glucose. Through 10-fold cross-validation of the random forest model, a total of 12 microbial markers were detected, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 84.1%. Notably, we conducted the combined analysis on the intestinal microbial markers and clinical variables, and found that the AUC was 90.8 %.Conclusions: In this study, it was found that the host intestinal microorganisms could predict the occurrence of diabetes, and its predictive ability was no less than that of fasting blood sugar. It can be seen that the intestinal microorganisms are closely related to the occurrence and development of diabetes.
Comparative Analysis of Default Mode Networks in Major Psychiatric Disorders Using Resting-State EEG
Authors: Choi Kang-Min , Kim Jeong-Youn , Kim Yong-Wook , Han Jung-Won , Im Chang-Hwan , Lee Seung-Hwan
Published: June 2021

Default mode network (DMN) is a set of functional brain structures coherently activated when individuals are in resting-state. In this study, we constructed multi-frequency band resting-state EEG-based DMN functional network models for major psychiatric disorders to easily compare their pathophysiological characteristics. Phase-locking values (PLVs) were evaluated to quantify functional connectivity; global and nodal clustering coefficients (CCs) were evaluated to quantify global and local activities of DMN nodes, respectively. DMNs of patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia (SZ), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) were constructed relative to their demographically-matched healthy control groups. Overall DMN patterns were then visualized and compared with each other. In global CCs, SZ and AD showed hyperactivation in the theta band; OCD, MCI, and AD showed hypoactivation in the low-alpha band; OCD and MDD showed hypoactivation and hyperactivation in low-beta, and high-beta bands, respectively. In local CCs, disease-specific patterns were observed. In the PLVs, lowered theta-band functional connectivity between the left lingual gyrus and the left hippocampus was frequently observed. Our comprehensive comparisons suggest EEG-based DMN as a useful vehicle for understanding altered brain networks of major psychiatric disorders.
Indices Reflecting Muscle Contraction Performance During Exercise Based on a Combined Electromyography and Mechanomyography Approach
Authors: Fukuhara Shinichi , Kawashima Takaki , Oka Hisao
Published: June 2021

Electromyography (EMG) and mechanomyography (MMG) have been used to directly evaluate muscle function through the electromechanical aspect of muscle contraction. The purpose of this study was to establish new absolute indices to describe muscle contraction performance during dynamic exercise by combining EMG and displacement MMG (dMMG) measured simultaneously using our previously developed MMG/EMG hybrid transducer system. Study participants were eight healthy male non-athletes (controls) and eight male athletes. EMG and dMMG of the vastus medialis were measured for 30 s during four cycles of recumbent bicycle pedaling (30, 60, 90, and 120 W) and on passive joint movement. Total powers were calculated based on the time domain waveforms of both signals. Muscle contraction performance was verified with the slope of regression line (SRL) and the residual sum of squares (RSS) obtained from EMG and dMMG correlation. EMG and dMMG has increased with the work rate. Force and EMG were similar between groups, but dMMG showed a significant difference with load increase. Athletes had significantly higher SRL and significantly lower RSS than controls. The average value divided by SRL and RSS was higher in athletes than in controls. The indices presented by the combined approach of EMG and dMMG showed a clear contrast between the investigated groups and may be parameters that reflect muscle contraction performance during dynamic exercise.
Organic Carbon and Eukaryotic Predation Synergistically Change Resistance and Resilience of Aquatic Microbial Communities
Authors: Fang Wenwen , Liu Xiaokun , Mu Xing , Shi Jiangjian , Liang Zhiwei , Zheng Shengzhi , Tu Xiang , He Zhili , Wang Shanquan
Published: June 2021

With dramatic global rise of urbanization, anthropogenic activities alter aquatic ecosystems in urban rivers through inputs of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and nutrients. Microorganisms play crucial roles in global biogeochemical element cycles, providing functions to sustain microbial ecology stability. The DOC (bottom-up control) and microbial predation (top-down control) may synergistically drive the competition and evolution of aquatic microbial communities, and their resistance and resilience, of which experimental evidences remain scarce. In this study, laboratory sediment-water column experiments were employed to mimic the organic carbon-driven water blackening and odorization process in urban rivers and to elucidate impacts of DOC on the microbial ecology stability. Results showed that low DOC (25-75 mg/L TOC) and high DOC (100-150 mg/L TOC) changed the aquatic microbial community assemblies in different patterns: (1) the low DOC enriched K-selection microorganisms (e.g., bacteria and predators) with low biomass and low resilience, as well as high resistance to perturbations in changing microbial community assemblies; (2) the high DOC was associated with r-selection microorganisms with high biomass and improved resilience, together with low resistance detrimental to microbial ecology stability. Overall, this study provided new insights into impacts of DOC on aquatic microbial ecology stability, which may guide sustainable urban river management.
The Association of Postprandial Triglyceride Variability with Renal Dysfunction and Microalbuminuria in Patients with Type 2 Diabetic Mellitus A Retrospective and Observational Study.
Authors: Matsuoka-Uchiyama Natsumi , Uchida Haruhito A. , Okamoto Shugo , Onishi Yasuhiro , Katayama Katsuyoshi , Tsuchida-Nishiwaki Mariko , Takeuchi Hidemi , Takemoto Rika , Hada Yoshiko , Umebayashi Ryoko , Kurooka Naoko , Tsuji Kenji , Eguchi Jun , Nakajima Hirofumi , Shikata Kenichi , Wada Jun
Published: June 2021

Objective: We aim to examine whether day-to-day variation of lipid profile, especially triglyceride (TG) variability, is associated with exacerbation of diabetic kidney disease.Methods: We conducted a retrospective and observational study. First, 527 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) who checked estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) every 6 month since 2012 for longer than 5 years, were registered. Variability in postprandial TG was determined using standard deviation (SD), SD adjusted (Adj-SD) for the number of measurements, and maximum minus minimum difference (MMD) during the first 3-year follow up, respectively. The endpoint was 40% and more decline from baseline in eGFR, initiation of dialysis or death. Next, 181 patients who had no micro- nor macro-albuminuria in February 2013, were selected out of the 527 patients. The endpoint was the incidence of micro-albuminuria, initiation of dialysis or death.Results: Among 527 participants, 110 participants reached 40% and more decline from baseline in eGFR, or death. Renal survival was lower in the higher SD, higher Adj-SD and higher MMD groups than in the lower SD, lower Adj-SD and lower MMD groups, respectively (Log-rank test p=0.0073, 0.0059 and 0.0195, respectively). Lower SD, lower Adj-SD, lower MMD were significantly associated with renal survival rate in the adjusted model (hazard ratio, 1.62, 1.66, 1.59; 95% confidence intervals, 1.05-2.53, 1.08-2.58, 1.04-2.47, respectively). Next, among 181 participants, 108 participants developed micro-albuminuria or death. The non-incidence of micro-albuminuria was lower in the higher SD, higher Adj-SD and higher MMD groups than in the lower SD, lower Adj-SD and lower MMD groups, respectively (Log-rank test p=0.0241, 0.0352, and 0.0474, respectively). Conclusions: Postprandial TG variability is a novel risk factor for eGFR decline and incidence of micro-albuminuria in patients with type 2 DM.
Metagenomic Insights Into Co-Proliferation of Vibrio Spp. and Dinoflagellates Prorocentrum During A Spring Algal Bloom in the Coastal East China Sea Near Xiamen
Authors: Kim DaeHyun Daniel , Wan Lingling , Cao Xiuyun , Klisarova Daniela , Gerdzhikov Dimitar , Zhou Yiyong , Song Chunlei , Yoon Sukhwan
Published: June 2021

BackgroundCoastal harmful algal blooms (HAB), commonly termed ‘Red tides’, have severe undesirable consequences to the marine ecosystems and local fishery and tourism industries. Increase in nitrogen and/or phosphate loading is often attributed as the major culprits of increasing frequency and intensity of the coastal HAB; however, fundamental understanding is lacking as to the causes and mechanism of bloom formation despite decades of intensive investigation.ResultsIn this study, we interrogated the prokaryotic microbiomes of surface water samples collected at two neighboring segments of East China Sea that contrast greatly in terms of the intensity and frequency of Prorocentrum-dominated HAB. Mantel tests identified significant correlations between the structural and functional composition of the microbiomes and the physicochemical state and the algal biomass density of the surface seawater, implying the possibility that prokaryotic microbiota may play key roles in coastal HAB. A conspicuous feature of the microbiomes at the sites characterized with high trophic state index and eukaryotic algal cell counts was disproportionate proliferation of Vibrio spp., and their complete domination of the functional genes attributable to the dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia (DNRA) pathway significantly enriched at these sites. The genes attributed to phosphorus uptake function were also significantly enriched at these sites, presumably due to the Pi-deficiency induced by algal growth; however, the profiles of the phosphorus mineralization genes lacked consistency, barring any conclusive evidence with regard to contribution of prokaryotic microbiota to phosphorous bioavailability. The results of the co-occurrence network analysis performed with the core prokaryotic microbiome also supported that the observed proliferation of Vibrio and HAB may be causally associated.ConclusionsThe findings of this study suggest a previously unidentified association between Vibrio proliferation and the Prorocentrum-dominated HAB in the subtropical East China Sea, and opens a discussion regarding an unlikely, but still possible, involvement of Vibrio-mediated DNRA in Vibrio-Prorocentrum symbiosis. Further substantiation of this interaction with culture-based experiments may prove crucial for understanding of the dynamics of explosive local algal growth during HAB events endemic to the region.
Organic-Inorganic Fertilization Built Higher Stability of Soil And Root Microbial Networks Than Exclusive Mineral Or Organic Fertilization
Authors: Yang Luhua , Sun Renhua , Li Jungai , Zhai Limei , Cui Huiling , Fan Bingqian , Wang Hongyuan , Liu Hongbin
Published: June 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Integrated Scheme of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Delaying the Morbidity of HIV Infection: Study Protocol for a Multicentre, Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: DING XUE , Meng Pengfei , Ma Xiuxia , Wang Jiangrong , Chen Xin , Ma Chengjie , Xu Liran
Published: June 2021

Background: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the incidence and mortality rates of which are high worldwide. In the late 1990s, highly active antiretroviral therapy (ART) emerged; although it has been a long time of research on AIDS, there is still no vaccine cure. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) role in AIDS has been recognised and accepted by more patients, especially patients with asymptomatic HIV infection. Methods/Design: This trial will be conducted to enrol 216 eligible patients who will be randomised into the treatment and control groups. After 18 months of intervention, the efficacy and safety of TCM in patients with AIDS will be acquired. The results include clinical symptoms, TCM syndromes, viral load, immunological indicators, safety indicators, and other biological indicators.Discussion: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of TCM for asymptomatic AIDS and explore the plausible mechanism and provide reference for adopting this approach to retard the onset and control the progression of HIV/AIDS.Trial registration: ChiCTR1800018365, 13 Sep, 2018.
Antibiofilm and Anti-candidal Activity of Extract of the Marine Sponge Agelas Dispar
Authors: Júnior Antonio Carlos Vital , Pontes Marcela de Castro Nogueira Diniz , Barbosa Janaina Priscila , Höfling José Francisco , Araújo Renata Mendonça , Boniek Douglas , de Resende-Stoianoff Maria Aparecida , Andrade Vânia Sousa
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to determine the antifungal and antibiofilm activity of Agelas dispar on biofilm-producing of Candida species. Methanolic extract of A. dispar was obtained and the fraction Ag2 showed inhibitory activity for all the 13 Candida strains tested, in concentrations ranging from 2.5 mg/ml to 0.15625 mg/ml. Antifungal activity of fungicidal nature was seen between 5.0 mg/ml and 0.3125 mg/ml of extract against the strains. All strains were classified as biofilm producers. Methanolic extract Ag2 was tested at concentrations of 2.5 mg/ml and 1.25 mg/ml for antibiofilm activity against the biofilm in formation and mature biofilm from all the strains of the genus Candida. Treated and untreated biofilm samples were selected for visualization on Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). SEM allowed the visualization of the quantitative decrease of the microbial community, alterations of structural morphology and destruction, at the cellular level, in both forming and mature biofilm. It was suggested that the mechanism of action of the fraction is at a plasma membrane and/or cell wall alteration level. The fraction of methanolic extract of A. dispar may be a promising antifungal and antibiofilm therapeutic strategy against different species of the genus Candida.
Relationship between Cardiometabolic Risk and Physical Fitness in Young Girls with Aesthetic Professions
Authors: Lisboa Salime , Vieira Alexandra Vieira , Teodoro Juliana Lopes , Costa Rochelle , Boeno Franccesco Pinto , Farinha Juliano , Reischak-Oliveira Álvaro , Bracht Cláudia Gomes , Cunha Giovani dos Santos
Published: June 2021

Background: In the literature, professions that impose body standards for daily performance are designated as non-conventional professions (i.e. models, athletes, ballet dancers), with great emphasis on the female population. More than a job, it becomes a lifestyle to those inserted in this environment, thus, thousands of children and adolescents seek the inclusion and success in these professions due to financial and media gains. Such professions are associated to several health-related risk factors. The purpose of this study was to identify whether there is a relationship between physical fitness levels, cardiometabolic health markers, mental health and dietary habits in non-conventional professions. Methods: The sample consisted of 41 female individuals aged between 14 and 24 years, divided in four groups, control group/ university students (UG=11), models (MG=11), ballet dancers (BG=11), and athletes group (AG=8). Physical fitness outcomes (cardiorespiratory fitness, flexibility, maximal dynamic strength, muscular endurance and body composition); biochemical outcomes (high density lipoprotein [HDL], low density lipoprotein [LDL], total cholesterol [TC], fasting glucose [FG], fasting insulin [FI], C-reactive protein [CRP]), diet quality and mental health were evaluated. Results: No impairments were observed in the health markers evaluated, both for health-related physical fitness and biochemical outcomes. Even with statistically significant differences between the groups for chronological age (p=0.002), menarche (p=0.004), career length (p=0.001), height (p=0.001), body mass index (p=0.018), waist-to-height ratio (p<0.001), %Fat (p=0.020), VO2peak (p=0.020), maximal dynamic strength of knee extensors (p=0.031) and elbow flexors (p=0,001) and flexibility (p<0.001), all these values are within the normal range for health. Conclusion: The professions analyzed do not seem to interfere in the physical and metabolic health of the girls assessed. However, regarding mental health, the evaluated age group was susceptible to depressive symptoms.
Clinical Trial to Analyze the Effect of Oral Intake of Phellinus Linteus(Sanghuang) Extract on Immune Function: A Study Protocol for a Randomized, Double-blind Controlled Trial
Authors: Ku Yong Ho , Lee Hyun , Ryu Hwa Yeon , Kang Jae Hui
Published: June 2021

Background: As Korea becomes an aging society, interest in health care has increased. In particular, there is an increasing demand for immune function improvement to prevent infectious diseases. Phellinus linteus (PL) has previously been shown to have immune-enhancing and anticancer effects. We aim to evaluate whether PL mycelium extract, cultured using the PL KCTC0399BP strain, has an increase in immune function using blood test indicators. This clinical trial is designed based on the results of a pilot study as the main trial.Methods: This clinical trial will be a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Ninety-eight participants will be enrolled and randomly divided into two groups: experimental group (PL 1000 mg) and control group (placebo). Participants will be administered experimental food or placebo for 8 weeks. Blood tests will be performed before food intake and at 8 weeks after the start of the experiment. Laboratory evaluation items are as follows: natural killer cell activity, tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-12, immunoglobulin (Ig)G1, IgG2, and IgM. We will mainly use the full analysis set to statistically analyze the effectiveness of treatment.Discussion: This study includes inclusion and exclusion criteria and a well-controlled intervention. This study evaluates the effect of PL extract on immune function and will contribute to knowledge on the value of PL as an immune function health functional food.Clinical research registration: This study has been registered at the Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) of Korea: CRIS-KCT0005460. Registered , 12 October 2020, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/search_result_st01_en.jsp?seq=17761<ype=&rtype=Trial status: This clinical trial is in the recruitment stage. Recruitment began in October 21, 2020 and will be completed in March 2021. This trial was registered at the Clinical Research Information Service of South Korea on October 12, 2020. (CRIS-KCT0005460)
The Story of the “Qiulai” Gin Unraveled by Radiocarbon Dating, Material Characterization and Chinese Written Sources
Authors: DURIER Marie-Gabrielle , GIRARD-MUSCAGORRY Alexandre , HATTÉ Christine , FABRIS Tiphaine , FOASSO Cyrille , NOWIK Witold , VAIEDELICH Stéphane
Published: June 2021

An ancient table zither qin, an emblematic stringed instrument of traditional Chinese music, has been rediscovered in the museum collection of the Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers (inv.4224, CNAM collection), Paris. This instrument named “Qiulai” qin, whose origin is poorly documented, can claim to be one of the oldest qin preserved in European collections; its state of conservation is exceptional. A thorough examination was carried out based on an innovative approach combining museum expertise, material characterization analyses (optical microscopy, VIS/IR/UV imaging, X-ray fluorescence, SEM-EDS, Raman) and advanced radiocarbon dating technology (ECHoMICADAS). Our results highlight the great coherence with the traditional manufacturing practices mentioned in early Qing dynasty qin treatises and poems, in particular the collection of materials with highly symbolic meanings referring to the qin sound, nature and the universe. They also confirm the antiquity of the "Qiulai" qin in Europe by indicating that it was most likely made in a small interval of about 30 years at the turn of the 18th century.
Dynamical Analysis and Design of Computational Methods for Nonlinear Stochastic Leprosy Epidemic Model
Authors: Awrejcewicz Jan , Raza Ali , Rafiq Muhammad , Mohsin Muhammad
Published: June 2021

In this article, we present the dynamical analysis of the stochastic leprosy epidemic model. Positivity and boundedness are the criteria used in the deterministic model. A primary technique known as the Euler Maruyama is employed in the solution of the said model. Standard and non-standard computational methods are applied in evaluating the design stability and efficiency based on the chosen criteria. The standard computational methods like the Stochastic Euler and the Stochastic Runge Kutta fail to restore the essential features of biological problems. However, our proposed approach, the stochastic non-standard finite difference (NSFD), is used and found to be efficient, cost-effective, and accommodates all the desired feasible properties. Our method achieves all-time convergence against the backdrop of other classical techniques that perform conditionally or fail over a long period. In the end, a comparison between this scheme and the existing ones reviews the novelty of our approach.
Transcriptome Sequencing and Metabolome Analysis Reveal the Mechanism of Shuanghua Baihe Tablet in Treatment of Oral Mucositis
Authors: Geng Qishun , Liu Ruijuan , Shen Zhibo , Wei Qian , Zheng Yuanyuan , Jia Lanqi , Wang Longhao , Li Lifeng , Zhao Jie , Xue Wenhua
Published: June 2021

Background: Oral mucositis (OM) caused by chemotherapy is the most common complication in the radiotherapy of head and neck tumors. In severe cases, it can lead to the interruption of treatment, which can affect the control of the disease and the life quality of patients. Shuanghua Baihe tablet (SBT) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, which is administerd to treat OM in China. It has been clinically effective for more than 30 years, but its mechanism is still unclear. With the rise of multiple omics, it is possible to study the mechanism of Chinese herbal compound prescriptions. Methods: Based on transcriptomics and metabolomics, we explored the mechanism of SBT in the treatment of OM. The OM model of rats was established by 5-FU induction, and SBT was orally administered at dosages of 0.75 and 3g/kg/day. In order to search for SBT targets and related metabolites, the dysregulated genes and metabolites were detected by transcriptomics and metabolomics. Immune related indicators such as interleukin-17 (IL-17) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by ELISA. Treg cell disorders was analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: Our results showed that SBT significantly alleviated the symptoms of OM rats and the inflammatory infiltration of ulcer tissues. After SBT administration, inflammatory related metabolic pathways including linoleic acid metabolism, valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis were significantly altered. Furthermore, the production of proinflammatory factors like IL-17 and TNF-α, was also dramatically reduced after SBT administration. Besides, the infiltration degree of Treg cells in the spleen of OM model rats was significantly improved by SBT administration, thus maintaining the immune balance of the body.Conclusions: This study shows that SBT regulates inoleic acid metabolism, Glycerophospholipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism, and inhibits IL-17/TNF signal transduction to restore Treg and Th17 cell homeostasis in OM rats, thereby alleviating chemotherapy-induced OM.
Ciprofloxacin Induced Antibiotic Resistance in Salmonella Typhimurium Mutants and Genome Analysis
Authors: Kakatkar Aarti , Das Anubrata , Shashidhar Ravindranath
Published: June 2021

Salmonella species is an important food-borne pathogen. Ciprofloxacin is used for treatment of salmonellosis. The wild type of Salmonella Typhimurium was exposed to 10-fold of minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ciprofloxacin. The survivors of the first exposure were regrown. This regrown population was exposed to similar ciprofloxacin treatment. After 20 repetitions of the antibiotic exposure, the survival population was evaluated for antibiotic resistance. The mutants had 100-fold more of the initial MIC. The mutants were of smaller size (0.7 ± 0.5 mm) with a lag phase of 70 min. These mutants were resistant to other antibiotics belonging to different classes but were sensitive to heat and osmotic stress. The whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis of antibiotic resistant mutants revealed interesting mutation pattern. Total 40513 mutations were observed across the genome (total 3843 annotated genes). Relatively small percentage (5.2%) of mutations were non-synonymous. Four-fold more transitions were observed than transversions. Ratio of <1 transition vs transversion shows a positive selection for antibiotic resistant trait. Seven genes with over 50 mutations were observed. However, mutation distribution across the genome was relatively uniform. The important genes like dnaE, gyrA, iroC, metH and rpoB involved in antibiotic resistance had point mutations. The genome analysis showed that most affected pathways were transcription regulation, transmembrane transport, cell adhesion, pathogenesis, pilus assembly, oxidation-reduction mechanisms, phosphor-relay signal transduction and LPS biosynthesis. We propose that development resistance to ciprofloxacin is because of the mutations in these genes.
Asymmetric Vibrations and Chaos in Spherical Caps under Uniform Time-varying Pressure Fields
Authors: Iarriccio Giovanni , Zippo Antonio , Pellicano Francesco
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a study on nonlinear asymmetric vibrations in shallow spherical caps under pressure loading. The Novozhilov’s nonlinear shell theory is used for modelling the structural strains. A reduced-order model is developed through the Rayleigh-Ritz method and Lagrange equations. The equations of motion are numerically integrated using an implicit solver. The bifurcation scenario is addressed by varying the external excitation frequency. The occurrence of asymmetric vibrations related to quasi-periodic and chaotic motion is shown through the analysis of time histories, spectra, Poincaré maps, and phase planes.
Electroacupuncture Pretreatment Attenuates Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury through Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1-Mediated Anti-Apoptosis via Inhibiting NF-kB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yin Nina , Long Man , Wang Zhigang , Shao Luyao , Bi Jing , Chen Zebin
Published: June 2021

Our previous study showed that electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment elicited protective effect on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats, at least partly, which was associated with transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1)-regulated anti-oxidant stress and anti-inflammation. In this study, we further investigated the possible contribution of TRPV1-mediated anti-apoptosis in EA pretreatment-evoked neuroprotection. After EA pretreatment at Baihui (GV20), bilateral Shenshu (BL23) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) acupoints, transient focal cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 2 h followed by reperfusion for 6 h in rats. Then, infarct volume, nerve cell injury, neuronal apoptosis, NF-κB signaling activation, and expression of TRPV1 were evaluated by TTC staining, hematoxylin-eosin staining, transmission electron microscopy, immunochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot, respectively. The presented data showed that EA pretreatment significantly reduced infarct volume, relieved nerve cell injury, decreased the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved caspase-3, increased the level of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, inhibited NF-κB (p65) transcriptional activity, and curbed TRPV1 expression in MCAO rats. By contrast, enhancement of TRPV1 expression accompanying capsaicin application, the specific TRPV1 agonists, markedly accelerated nerve cell damage, aggravated neuronal apoptosis, prompted nuclear translocation of NF-κB (p65), resulting in the reversion of EA pretreatment-evoked neuroprotective effect in MCAO rats. Thus, we conclude that EA pretreatment-induced downregulation of neuronal TRPV1 expression plays an anti-apoptosis role through inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby protecting MCAO rats from cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Gender Differences in Metabolic Disorder Prevalence Among North China Residents: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Hao Zhihua , Ge Yanhong , Zhu Qiuxiao , Li Jie , Liu Zibo , Yuan Lingling , Zhang Yue , Wang Zan , Wang Mian , Zhang Lihui
Published: June 2021

Background: Numerous studies have found sex disparity in the prevalence of metabolic disorders. However, information is lacking on gender difference among residents of north China and little epidemiological data is available on metabolic disorders in North China. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 2650 randomly selected adult residents of Hebei province, North China. Demographic, biochemical, and physical examination parameters were collected and compared between men and women. Metabolic disorder prevalence was estimated and their associations with baseline characteristics was analyzed by multivariate logistic regression.Results: Our data suggest that the prevalence of metabolic disorders including metabolic syndrome (MetS), diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, central obesity, and hypertriglyceridemia are significantly higher in men than in women. We find that aging people, overweight or obese people, urban residents, smokers, people with lower education, manual workers, and people with family history of diabetes are at higher risk of metabolic disorders. However, these associations differ between men and women.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that metabolic disorders are an important public health concern and highlights an urgent need for intervention in middle-aged and elderly populations in North China. There are sex-specific associations between multiple risk factors and metabolic disorders.
Design of Zn1-xCuxO Nanocomposite Ag-doped As An Efficient Antibacterial Agent
Authors: moosavifar maryam , Zarrini Golamreza , Barjasteh Elnaz Mashmool
Published: June 2021

This study aims at the preparation of antimicrobial nanoparticles hybrid based on silver (Ag) doped Zn1-xCuxO. Zn1-xCuxO nanocomposite Ag-doped prepared via wet chemical route, co-precipitation, and impregnation method, respectively. The inclusion of silver in the nanocomposite did not change its structure. However, the insertion of CuO into the ZnO structure has no impact due to the similarity of Cu ion radius with Zn ion radius (0.74 toward 0.73 Å). Hybrid nanomaterials characterized by XRD, FT-IR, and FESEM technique. The effect of loading of CuO nanoparticles into ZnO nanomaterials investigated on their antimicrobial behavior. For this purpose, CuO with a variety ratio doped on the ZnO nanoparticles, and then Ag entrapped by impregnation methods. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) measurements were carried out to measure the antimicrobial behavior of ZnO(Ag) and mixed hybrid Zn1-xCuxO(Ag) towards gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and fungus. gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria were generally more sensitive to ZnO and CuO nanoparticles, respectively. Then, these hybrid nanomaterials can be an excellent candidate for both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
Validating a Japanese Version of the Athlete Psychological Strain Questionnaire
Authors: Ojio Yasutaka , Matsunaga Asami , Kawamura Shin , Horiguchi Masanori , Yoshitani Goro , Hatakeyama Kensuke , Amemiya Rei , Kanie Ayako , Purcell Rosemary , Rice Simon M. , Fujii Chiyo
Published: June 2021

Background: There is increasing international interest in clinical practice and research related to mental health in the international sports society. The athletes-specific psychological distress assessment tool that addresses potential mental health needs can help promote early detection and recovery of mental illness, as well as physical illnesses. Currently, little is known about the applicability of the useful assessment tool for Japanese elite athletes. The Athlete Psychological Strain Questionnaire (APSQ) is a brief, effective and reliable screening tool to identify early signs of athlete-specific distress and potential mental health symptoms. We examined the applicability and reliability of a Japanese version of the APSQ (APSQ-J) in a Japanese elite athlete context. Further, we examined the construct validity of the APSQ-J. Methods: We collected web-based anonymous self-report data from 219 currently competing Japanese professional male rugby players. A two-stage process was conducted to validate the factor structure of the APSQ-J using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) in a randomly partitioned calibration sample and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in a separate validation sample. Cronbach’s alpha is used to assess internal consistency. Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients were calculated to determine if the APSQ-J was significantly associated with measures of psychological distress and wellbeing using Kessler-6 (K6) and the WHO-5 Well-Being Index, respectively, respectively. Results: We identified a one-factor structure for the APSQ-J. Confirmatory factor analysis supports this one-factor model, revealing good model fit indices. The standardized path coefficients for each of the items were β =0.41 to 0.83 (p < 0.001). A Cronbach’s alpha of 0.84 was obtained for the APSQ-J. The APSQ-J demonstrated significant correlations with the K-6 (r = 0.80, p <0.001) and WHO-5 (r = -0.58, p <0.001).Conclusion: The APSQ-J can be an appropriate and psychometrically robust measure for identifying athlete-specific distress in elite athletes in Japan. Widely disseminating and utilizing this scale in Japanese sports society may support athletes' mental health via early detection of symptoms of psychological distress.
Basic Analysis of Calcium-dependent Protein Kinase Gene and Its Closely Related Gene Families in Solanum Pennellii Genome
Authors: Shi Jinyan , Du Xiangge
Published: June 2021

Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPK) are the main Ca2 + sensor involved in the regulation of plant growth and development and various stress responses. In this study, we identified 32 CDPK (SpCDPK) genes and 7 CDPK-related protein kinase (SpCRK) genes in the whole genome of Solanum Pennellii, which were unevenly distributed on 12 chromosomes. The SpCDPK and SpCRK proteins own ATP-binding region and Ser/Thr protein kinase region. However, the SpCDPK proteins had EF-hand calcium-binding region, but the SpCRK proteins lacked it. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the SpCDPK and SpCRK gene families in Solanum Pennellii could be divided into four subgroups, and the evolutionary relationship between Solanum Pennellii and Arabidopsis thaliana was closer. Further analysis revealed that the exon-intron structure and conserved motif of each subgroup were basically the same, but there were differences in cis-acting elements. In this study, we conducted a preliminary analysis of SpCDPK and SpCRK gene families in Solanum Pennellii to provide basic data for further exploration of its molecular mechanism.
High-Sensitivity MEMS Pressure Sensor Utilizing Bipolar Junction Transistor with Temperature Compensation
Authors: Basov Mikhail
Published: June 2021

The paper presents MEMS pressure sensor chip utilizing novel electrical circuit with bipolar-junction transistor-based (BJT) differential amplifier with negative feedback loop (PDA-NFL). Pressure sensor chips with two circuits have been manufactured and tested: the first chip uses circuit with vertical n-p-n (V-NPN) BJTs and the second – circuit with horizontal p-n-p (L-PNP) BJTs. The demonstrated approach allows for increase of pressure sensitivity while keeping the same chip size. It also can be used for chip size reduction and increase of pressure overload capability while maintaining the same pressure sensitivity. Significant reduction of both noise and temperature instability of output signal has been demonstrated using transistor amplifier with negative feedback loop.
Hyperoxia During Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Refractory Cardiac Arrest Is Associated With Severe Circulatory Failure and Increased Mortality
Authors: Bonnemain Jean , Rusca Marco , Ltaief Zied , Roumy Aurélien , Tozzi Piergiorgio , Oddo Mauro , Kirsch Matthias , Liaudet Lucas
Published: June 2021

Background: High levels of arterial oxygen pressures (PaO2) have been associated with increased mortality in extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR), but there is limited information regarding possible mechanisms linking hyperoxia and death in this setting, notably with respect to its hemodynamic consequences. We aimed therefore at evaluating a possible association between PaO2, circulatory failure and death during ECPR.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 44 consecutive cardiac arrest (CA) patients treated with ECPR to determine the association between the mean PaO2 over the first 24h, arterial blood pressure, vasopressor and intravenous fluid therapies, mortality, and cause of deaths.Results: Eleven patients (25%) survived to hospital discharge. The main causes of death were refractory circulatory shock (46%) and neurological damage (24%). Compared to survivors, non survivors had significantly higher mean 24h PaO2 (306±121 mmHg vs 164±53 mmHg, p < 0.001), lower mean blood pressure and higher requirements in vasopressors and fluids, but displayed similar pulse pressure during the first 24h (an index of native cardiac recovery). The mean 24h PaO2 was significantly correlated with hypotension and vasoactive therapies. Patients dying from neurological cause had better preserved blood pressure and lower vasopressor requirements. Patients dying from circulatory failure died after a median of 17h, compared to a median of 58 h for patients dying from a neurological cause (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.90–0.99, p = 0.001).Conclusion: In conclusion, hyperoxia is associated with increased mortality during ECPR, possibly by promoting circulatory collapse or delayed neurological damage.
Cardiorespiratory Impact of Intrathoracic Pressure Overshoot During Artificial Carbon Dioxide Pneumothorax: a Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Ren Yunqin , Zhu Xing , Yan Hong , Chen Liyong , Mao Qingxiang
Published: June 2021

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate cardiovascular and respiratory effects of intrathoracic pressure overshoot (higher than insufflation pressure) in patients who underwent thoracoscopic esophagectomy with carbon dioxide (CO2) pneumothorax.Methods: This prospective research included 200 patients who were scheduled for esophagectomy. The patients were randomly divided into the Stryker insufflator (STR) group and the Storz insufflator (STO) group. We recorded the changes of intrathoracic pressure, cardiopulmonary function and recovery time, and compared these indexes between the two groups.Results: We found that during the artificial pneumothorax, intrathoracic pressure overshoot occurred in both the STR group (8.9 mmHg, 38 times per hour) and the STO group (9.8 mmHg, 32 times per hour). The recorded maximum intrathoracic pressures were up to 58 mmHg in the STR group and 51 mmHg in the STO group. The average duration of intrathoracic pressure overshoot was significantly longer in the STR group (5.3 ± 0.86 s) vs. the STO group (1.2 ± 0.31 s). During intrathoracic pressure overshoot, a greater reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (5.6 mmHg vs 1.1 mmHg), a higher elevation in airway peak pressure (4.8 ± 1.17 cmH2O vs 0.9 ± 0.41 cmH2O), and a larger increase in CVP (8.2 ± 2.86 cmH2O vs 4.9 ± 2.35 cmH2O) were observed in the STR group than in the STO group. Vasopressors were also applied more frequently in the STR group than in the STO group (68% vs 43%, P < 0.01). The reduction of SBP caused by thoracic pressure overshoot was significantly correlated with the duration of overshoot (R = 0.76) while not with the maximum overshoot pressure.Conclusion: Intrathoracic pressure overshoot can occur during thoracoscopic surgery with artificial CO2 pneumothorax and may lead to cardiovascular adverse effects which highly depend on the duration of the pressure overshoot.
‘Comparison of Patient Reported Outcome Measures for Direct Visual Internal Urethrotomy and Non-Transecting Urethroplasty for Short Bulbar Stricture’
Authors: Sitaram Mummalaneni , Reddy Suraj Jayadeva , CHAWLA ARUN , Rosette Jean J.M.C.H de la , Laguna Pilar , Pillai Sunil , Reddy Bathi Sourabh , Pandit Shruti , Choudhary Anupam
Published: June 2021

Background:To evaluate the functional and sexual outcomes of Primary DVIU and Non- transecting bulbar urethroplasty (NTA) for short segment (<2 cm) bulbar urethral strictures using the Modified USS PROM.Methods:The USS PROM questionnaire comprising of a six-item LUTS domain, a LUTS-specific QOL question, and a peeling’s voiding picture score was used. To achieve a holistic approach to the evaluation of stricture surgery outcomes a six-item IIEF and four-item version of MSHQ-EjD domains, completed the questionnaires. All cases of short bulbar urethral stricture who underwent primary DVIU and NTA between September 2018 and September 2019 and consented to filling out the questionnaires were enrolled into the study. Results:The LUTS score for the NTA at 12 months is significantly better (1.93 ± 2.13 Vs 8.76 ± 5.92, p=0.000). The Peeling score of the NTA is significant better at 6 months (1.59 ± 0.56 Vs 2.26 ± 0.96, p=0.000) and 12 months (1.41 ± 0.68 Vs 2.67 ± 0.73, p=0.000). Erectile function score at 12 months for NTA is significantly better than DVIU (24.37 ± 3.2 Vs 21.143 ± 2.86, p=0.001). The Ejaculatory function score at 6 months is significantly better for the NTA. Finally the Uroflowmetry (Qmax) is significant in NTA group at 12 months (26.7 ± 4.08 Vs 15.35 ± 5.16, p =0.000).Conclusion:NTA shows superior outcomes in almost all domains of USS- PROM, both in terms of voiding and sexual function. This should be the preferred first choice treatment for short segment bulbar stricture.Trail Registration- CTRI /2020/02/023578