bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Storage Insect Pests and Faecal dropping of Rodent in Stored Grains in two districts of Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Tadesse Marid , Ali Md Jamshed
Published: July 2021

This study was designed to assess major insects and occurrence of rodent infestation in stored grain in two districts of south western Ethiopia. Omo Neda and Bako Tibe districts were purposively selected supported their potential growing of maize and sorghum grain, and high postharvest losses in these selected areas. A total of 160 farmers’ stores from both districts were randomly selected. The grain samples used in the present study were stored for 5 different time periods, ranging from 1 to 5 months and from the same farmers’ stores, to identify storage insect pest and to determine grain weight loss and insect damage. The results showed that the dominant insect species in maize and sorghum grains were weevils (Sitophilus spp.) followed by the Angoumois gelechiid (Sitotroga cerealella Olivier) and flour beetles (Tribolium spp.). High numbers of insects were recorded from both plastered and un-plastered gombisa and polypropylene bags. Additionally, the amount of every insect pest in each storage container recorded per 100 g grain increased because the duration of grain storage increased. There have been 0.33–1.29 and 0.44-1g droppings per 100-g sample of maize and sorghum grain, respectively. Grain damage showed significant differences over the storage periods across the study districts. A similar trend was observed for weight loss for each of the grains in all districts. These results indicated that farmers are incurring a substantial grain loss to insects and rodent pests. Hence, there is an urgent need to devise appropriate tactics for protecting the losses in farm-stored maize and sorghum in Ethiopia.
High Performance Surface Plasmon Resonance Based Photonic Crystal Fiber Sensor with Four Open Surface Rings
Authors: porghoveh neda Ali , Barvestani Jamal , Meshginqalam Bahar
Published: July 2021

In this paper, a photonic crystal fiber sensor is proposed which have four-opening channels that support surface plasmon resonances. By detecting the optical spectrum of leakage from the fiber core to the four regions created on its periphery, the sensitivity of the sensor can be assessed. Gold is used as the plasmonic material in the infrared wavelength range on the Titanium oxide film which is used as a substrate layer to increase the coupling and adhesion. Influences of structural parameters on the sensor performance are investigated by the Finite Difference Element method. Sensitivities for refractive index of 1.34-1.44 for wavelength ranges (690-1500 nm) with maximum wavelength sensitivity of 25,600 nm / RIU and maximum amplitude sensitivity and 7367 ( RIU-1 ) and figure of merit (FOM) of 547 ( RIU-1 ) have been calculated. In addition to high sensitivity, great FOM value of this sensor is an important feature. This sensor can be used to identify chemicals and biomolecules.
Determinants Associated with Participation in Physical Activity Among Patients with Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kim Sehee , Nam Kyung Eun , Park Yong Hyun , Lee Ji Youl , Lee Jong In
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Physical activity (PA) has been evaluated for reducing side effects of cancer treatment and improving quality of life. Understanding the factors that affect participation in PA is essential to improve strategies for health promotion. We evaluated the determinants of PA among prostate cancer patients.
Methods

Ninety patients were divided into 'inactive or minimally active' or 'health enhancing physical activity' groups, based on their PA levels measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). IPAQ score was used as the dependent variable. Clinical characteristics, including demographics, difficulties in urination or defecation, socioeconomic status, physical status and functions were used as the independent variables. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.
Results

Univariate logistic regression analyses identified that urination and defecation difficulties were associated with lower PA. Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that urinary difficulties were associated with lower PA.
Conclusion

Knowledge of the factors that influence PA will allow physicians to identify patients who are expected to have less PA and intervene early. Urinary difficulties had a statistically significant association with lower PA, representing a barrier to PA. Early intervention is needed to overcome urinary difficulties considering the importance of PA in achieving optimal health outcomes.
Reaching a Group-Agreement in Finite Time Under Acyclic Interaction Topology
Authors: Ma Xinru , Li Hengyu , Zhang Tiehui , Liu Jun , Xie Shaorong , Luo Jun
Published: July 2021

This paper discusses the finite time agreement problem of networks with acyclic partition topology. In view of the structural characteristics of such network topology, mathematical induction is particularly suitable to prove the main conclusions in the paper. In addition, for the consideration of the finite time consensus problem, in addition to using basic matrix theory to verify the solution of the problem, this brief also has a more detailed analysis of the time required to reach consensus. Based on these two points, it is observed that the solution of this problem is due to the features of acyclic partition interactions and the continuity of the related finite time protocol and contributes to the research on the grouping consensus of multiagent system. Furthermore, simulation examples are presented to verify the theoretical results.
Bifurcations of a predator-prey system with cooperative hunting and Holling III functional response
Authors: Yao Yong , Song Teng , Li Zuxiong
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we consider the dynamics of a predator-prey system of Gause type with cooperative hunting among predators and Holling III functional response. The known work numerically shows that the system exhibits saddle-node and Hopf bifurcations except homoclinic bifurcation for some special parameter values. Our results show that there are a weak focus of multiplicity three and a cusp of codimension two for general parameter conditions and the system can exhibit various bifurcations as perturbing the bifurcation parameters appropriately, such as the transcritical and the pitchfork bifurcations at the degenerate boundary equilibrium, the saddle-node and the Bogdanov-Takens bifurcations at the degenerate positive equilibrium and the Hopf bifurcation around the weak focus. The comparative study demonstrates that the dynamics are far richer and more complex than that of the system without cooperative hunting among predators. The analysis results reveal that appropriate intensity of cooperative hunting among predators is beneficial for the persistence of predators and the diversity of ecosystem.
Quantitative Evaluation On Cardiac Remodeling Mechanism After Intensive Exercise: A Preliminary Study of Non-enhanced Cardiac Cine MRI
Authors: Liang hongqin , Zhu Liqiang , Ji Bing , Shang Yongning , Zhou xiaoyue , Wang Jian
Published: July 2021

Purpose: High intensity and longtime aerobic exercise may lead to the remodeling of both left and right ventricles with increased myocardial mass and cavity dilatation,which is mainly reflected in the changes of traditional cardiac function parameters.Feature tracking myocardial strain allows quantitative strain analysis of myocardial functionThe purpose was to quantitatively evaluate traditional cardiac function and feature tracking myocardial strain of exercise-induced ,andMaterials and methods: The study included 67 healthy volunteers (21 ± 2 years of age). The exercise group (n=43) who fulfilled our defined exercise criteria. The control group (n=23) who maintained a basic daily life .Noncontrast enhancement CMR scanning were performed on all the subjects using a 3T MRI scanner .Cvi42 software was used for post-processing . Left ventricular cardiac function and overall globle stress were measured.Results: Cardiac function parameters in the exercise group were significantly higher than those of the control group except for the ejection fractions (EFs) and heart rates (HRs). The GRS peak strain and GLS peak diastolic strain rates of both groups were significantly different (P＜0.05).The GRS peak strains and EFs were partly correlated (R=0.61). The GRS peak diastolic strains and cardiac Indices (CIs) were significantly correlated (R=0.68). The GCS and GRS Peak Strains showed highly negative correlations (R=–0.96). The GCS and GRS time to peak values were also highly correlated (R= 0.87). Conclusion:The initial results showed that Changes in the functional parameters were more obvious than in the myocardial strain parameters, and some strain indices were correlated with the cardiac functional parameters,when the remodeling of the heart occurs.This is a new attempt to quantitatively assessment of Cardiac function and strain by Non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance.
Comparative Effect of Dietary Supplements On Performance And Severity of Experimental Eimeria Tenella Infection In Broiler Chickens
Authors: Ogwiji Matthew , Danladi Jatau Isa , Joseph Natala Audu , Dahiru Sani , Buhari Habibu , Aliyu Andamin Danlami , Stephen Kyari , Khadijat Gasaliyu Abidemi
Published: July 2021

The effect of the dietary supplements; sugarcane molasses (prebiotic), Antox® (probiotic) and Enflorax® (synbiotic) on gut health, performance and severity of infection with Eimeria tenella in broiler chickens were evaluated in this study. Ninety (90) day-old broiler chicks were divided into six groups (A, B, C, D, E and F). Groups B to F were challenged with Eimeria tenella (2.0 × 104 oocysts/chick). Groups C, D and E were supplemented from day old with prebiotic, probiotic and synbiotic respectively, while F was administered amprolium. Groups A and B served as negative and positive controls respectively. Feed intake and performance parameters were assessed weekly for each group. After infection clinical signs, morbidity and mortality rates were monitored alongside oocysts output, gross and microscopic caecal lesions. Infected chickens exhibited clinical signs 4 days post infection (dpi) with 100% morbidity in all infected groups. Infected groups showed significant (P<0.05) drop in feed intake and weight gain from 3 - 5 weeks of age. Feed conversion ratio was highest in B but lower in the supplemented groups. Oocysts output in faeces were significantly lower (P<0.05) in the supplemented groups compared with B. Macroscopic lesion scores 7 dpi were significantly lower in the supplemented groups compared with B, though Group F had the lowest mean score. Histopathological examination of caeca tissues showed milder lesions in the supplemented groups. In conclusion, the supplements prebiotic, probiotic and synbiotic ameliorated the consequences of caecal coccidiosis in broiler chickens and therefore recommended for use in broiler production.
Application of Improved GS Algorithm In Cell Computing Holography
Authors: Wang Xiu xin , wang Hao , Fu Guan , Ling Jiwei
Published: July 2021

Background: As an important research direction in cell image processing, Computer Hologram(CH) can quantitatively detect and analyze the amplitude and phase information of cells and holographic reconstruct the recorded images. Compared with the traditional optical microscope, CH reduces the complexity of operation, avoids the operation of cell staining and does not affect the physiological characteristics of cells in the recording process. It plays an important role in the field of cell morphology measurement and deformation analysis. Results: An improved Gerchberg-Saxton (GS) algorithm is proposed to reconstruct cell hologram based on phase information. The cell image reconstructed by GS Algorithm with phase restricted conditions are analyzed and compared. Through the comparative experiments of different models, it shows that the improved GS algorithm is better than the traditional GS algorithm in cell image reconstruction based on phase information. With the improved algorithm of phase mapping and normalization conditions, the reconstructed image can distinguish the cell edge information and high signal-to-noise ratio information. The urine sediment image is taken as the experimental object. After reconstruction by this algorithm, other impurity cells can be filtered out, and the aberrant red blood cell image with clear edge can be obtained. This improved algorithm provides a new application for cell detection in clinical diagnosis.Conclusions: The phase map reflects the temporal and spatial information of the image, determines the time or spatial position where different frequency signals appear, and describes the overall shape of the object. Due to biological cells generally for phase type or class phase objects, the improved GS algorithm in this paper can well describe the phase information of restored image, which is more suitable for the practical application of cell phase reconstruction.
Preoperative fibrinogen-to-prealbumin ratio and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio/prealbumin ratio versus platelet distribution width-to-platelet count ratio as a prognostic predictor for bladder cancer
Authors: wu jiacheng , Zhai Baoqian , Li Tao , Wang Xiaolin
Published: July 2021

Background

Evidence indicates that preoperative fibrinogen/prealbumin (FPR), neutrophil lymphocyte ratio/prealbumin ratio (NLR/PA) and platelet distribution width-to-platelet count ratio (PDW/PLT) possess prognostic potential in numerous malignancies. However, their roles in bladder cancer remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the association between FPR, NLR/PA versus PDW/PLT and the prognosis in bladder cancer patients.
Methods

The clinical data of 147 patients with bladder cancer treated in Nantong cancer hospital from January 2009 to August 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. According to ROC curve, the optimal critical value of FPR, NLR/PA and PDW/PLT were 0.1084, 0.1045 and 0.1210 respectively. The patients were followed up for 5 years to observe the survival of the patients, and the clinicopathological data were statistically analyzed. Cox regression analysis was used for univariate and multivariate analysis. Finally, on this basis, the nomogram is constructed for internal verification.
Results

All patients were followed up for 5 years. A total of 102 patients survived with a survival rate of 69.4%, 45 patients died with a mortality rate of 30.6%. Further stratified analysis showed that the group with low FPR, low NLR/PA and low PDW/PLT had the best prognosis, while the group with high FPR, high NLR/PA and high PDW/PLT had the worst prognosis. Cox multivariate analysis showed that preoperative FPR, NLR/PA and PDW/PLT were independent risk factors for tumor progression (p = 0.007, p = 0.013, p = 0.000). The decrease of FPR, NLR/PA and PDW/PLT can significantly prolong OS and PFS in patients with bladder cancer. In internal validation, the c-index of the nomogram was 0.8140 (95% CI: 0.7577–0.8703).
Conclusions

Preoperative FPR and NLR/PA versus PDW/PLT can be an independent prognostic factor in bladder cancer patients and are associated with clinicopathological characteristics. They have a specific value in assessing the prognosis of bladder cancer patients.
Involvement of NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD-Dependent Pyroptosis In BPA-Induced Apoptosis of Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Wang Congcong , Wang Lei , Huang Chengmeng , Liu Yungang , Kuang Hongxuan , Pang Qihua , Han Hongyu , Fan Ruifang
Published: July 2021

BackgroundBisphenol A (BPA) is an additive in polycarbonate and epoxy resin particles with endocrine disrupting effects. Previously it has been reported that BPA is neurotoxic via induction of cell apoptosis and inflammation, and our recent studies showed that even at nanomolar concentrations BPA accelerated the apoptosis and death of human neuroblastoma cells from both genders, whose mechanisms remain, however, unidentified.ResultsHuman neuroblastoma cell lines developed from male and female subjects, IMR-32 and SK-N-SH, respectively, were exposed to BPA at concentrations ranging from 1 nM to 100 μM, for 24 h, with or without epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG, 4 or 8 μM), Z-YVAD-FMK (1 or 10 μM, caspase-1 inhibitor), and ICI182.780 (100 nM or 3 μM, estrogen receptor inhibitor) as modulators. The results showed that BPA nonlinearly upregulated the levels of IL-18, ASC, GSDMD and NLRP3 mRNAs and that of NLRP3, caspase-1, GSDMD and IL-1β proteins in IMR-32 and SK-N-SH cells. Noticeably, the mRNA levels of caspase-1 and IL-1β were changed differently in the two cell lines: the level of caspase-1 mRNA was enhanced in IMR-32 cells but suppressed in SK-N-SH cells, and that of IL-1β was suppressed in IMR-32 cells but enhanced in SK-N-SH cells. The level of GSDMD expression in situ was along with the increase in the release of IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1 and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Additionally, Z-YVAD-FMK, ICI182.780 and EGCG significantly reversed the changes of the above mRNAs/proteins induced by BPA. BPA significantly reduced the level of the reactive oxygen species and the rate of LDH leakage and apoptosis, while obviously increased the cell viability and the mitochondrial membrane potential. Meanwhile, Z-YVAD-FMK and ICI182.780 abruptly reduced the levels of Bak1, Bax, Bcl-2 and caspase-3 proteins induced by BPA. ConclusionAs mediated by the estrogen receptor, BPA may induce the pyroptosis of neuroblastoma cells through NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD signaling pathway, and caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis may be involved in BPA-induced apoptosis, which is alleviated by EGCG, an anti-oxidation agent.
Fe(III)-Activated Sulfite Revisited: The Overlooked Role of High-Valent Iron(IV)-Oxo Complex (Fe(IV)) in Water Treatment
Authors: Luo Luna , Wang Zhen , Guo Qin , Wei Xipeng , Hu Jianpeng , Luo Yu , Jiang Jin
Published: July 2021

Sulfate radical (SO4•−) and its secondary radical (hydroxyl radical, •OH) are commonly recognized as the primary reactive intermediates formed by Fe(III)/sulfite system. However, it still remains unknown whether Fe(IV) is involved in this system where the well documented Fe(IV)-precursors (i.e., Fe(II) and persulfates) were in-situ generated. Intriguingly, we observed that methyl phenyl sulfone (PMSO2), indicative of Fe(IV) formation, was formed during methyl phenyl sulfoxide (PMSO) transformation in Fe(III)/sulfite system, which unprecedently verified that Fe(IV) played a crucial role in it. In parallel, the involvement of SO4•− and •OH in this system were also identified, but the limited •OH was proposed to be derived from hydrolysis of both Fe(IV) and SO4•−, rather than by self-decay of SO4•− alone. Moreover, the contribution of Fe(IV) relative to it of free radicals was explored by monitoring the yield of PMSO2. It was disclosed that the relative contribution of Fe(IV) was progressively promoted as Fe(III)-sulfite reaction proceeding with an upper limit of 80%-90%, and it was accelerated by promoting Fe(III) and sulfite dosages, while was declined with increasing pH. Furthermore, a kinetic model was developed, which precisely simulated kinetic traces of PMSO transformation and dissolved oxygen evolution in Fe(III)/sulfite system. More importantly, the kinetic model offered the first insight into the evolution of Fe(IV), SO4•−, and •OH, which provided in-depth mechanistic understanding of the iron-catalyzed sulfite auto-oxidation process. Considering the different chemical properties between Fe(IV) and free radicals, it is urgent to re-evaluate the decontamination process by iron/sulfite system.
Fluorescent Composite Hydrogel of Carboxymethyl Celluose-Eu(Ⅲ)/Polyvinyl Alcohol and Its Application in Functional Paper
Authors: Ye Fang , Ye Jun , Xiong Jian
Published: July 2021

A novel carboxymethyl cellulose-Europium(Ⅲ)/polyvinyl alcohol (CMC-Eu(Ⅲ)/PVA) fluorescent hydrogel was prepared by a green and facile method. The hydrogel formed a physical cross-linking network under mild reaction conditions without using volatile organic chemical reagents. A porous structure was formed by the hydrogen bonding and other interaction between the PVA chains and the free hydroxyl on CMC-Eu(Ⅲ) during the composite gel transformation process. The addition of CMC-Eu(Ⅲ) improved the tensile and compressive mechanical properties of PVA hydrogel. When the CMC-Eu(Ⅲ) content was 15%, the maximum tensile stress of the composite hydrogel was 47.25±10.35 kPa and the compressive stress was 10.14±1.90 kPa. Meanwhile, the CMC-Eu(Ⅲ)/PVA hydrogels exhibited a 5D0→7F2 characteristic emission peak of Eu3+ at 615 nm, and emitted stable red fluorescence under UV irradiation at 254 nm. Moreover, the hydrogel was applied in making fluorescent paper as an internal sizing agent. When the amount of hydrogel was 1%, the tensile strength of fluorescent paper reached 3.52 kN/m, which is promising in the application of anti-counterfeiting.
MCT4 Upregulates PD-L1 Expression and Defines Novel Composite Therapeutic Targets for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Duan Xianxian , Hu Xiao , Liu Zhanzhao , Li Ning , Qin Junfang , Lan Lan , Yuan Mengci , Wang Yue
Published: July 2021

Immune checkpoint blocking therapy targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis has shown promising availability for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Nevertheless, in some cases, targeting efficiency is low and efficient gene interaction networks need to be sought, which inspired the exploration that MCT4 and PD-L1 co-expression network analysis and potential regulatory mechanism research. In the paper, bioinformatics, Western blot, qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, biochemical analysis, multiple immunohistochemistry, CRISPR/Cas9 and lentiviral transduction for MCT4 knockout (sgMCT4/231 KO) or overexpression (pEGFP-N1-MCT4/231) were adopted. Analysis of database basis showed MCT4 (SLC16A3) and PD-L1 (CD274) were functionally correlated and highly expressed in TNBC cells, further MCT4 and PD-L1 were co-expressed (more than 50% PD-L1+MCT4+ cells) in tissue section of TNBC patients. The expression of PD-L1 in TNBC cell lines MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468 and BT-549 was sensitive to lactate concentration, and lowering MCT4 expression could downregulate PD-L1 expression through affecting the lactate concentration. These data suggests that MCT4 is positively associated with PD-L1 and the co-targeted therapy for TNBC may be a promising clinical treatment strategy.
Trehangelins ameliorate inflammation-induced skin senescence by suppressing the epidermal YAP-CCN1 axis
Authors: Yokota Mami , Kamiya Yoshiyuki , Suzuki Tamie , Ishikawa Shinsuke , Takeda Akira , Kondo Shinya , Tohgasaki Takeshi , Nakashima Takuji , Takahashi Yoko , Ōmura Satoshi , Sakurai Tetsuhito
Published: July 2021

Trehangelins (THG) are newly identified trehalose compounds derived from broth cultures of an endophytic actinomycete, Polymorphospora rubra. THG are known to suppress Cellular Communication Network factor 1 (CCN1), which regulates collagen homeostasis in the dermis. Although the physical properties of THG suggest a high penetration of the stratum corneum, the effect of THG on the epidermis has not been reported. Here we describe a possible mechanism involved in skin aging focusing on the effect of THG on epidermal CCN1. This study shows that: 1) THG suppress epidermal CCN1 expression by inhibiting the translocation of Yes-Associated Protein (YAP) to nuclei. 2) Epidermal CCN1, localized at the basement membrane, regulates the balance between the growth and differentiation of keratinocytes. 3) Keratinocytes secrete more CCN1 than fibroblasts, which leads to disruption of the basement membrane and extracellular matrix components. 4) The secretion of CCN1 from keratinocytes is increased by ultraviolet B exposure, especially in aged keratinocytes, and deteriorates the elastic fiber structures in the underlying dermis. 5) Topical application of THG ameliorates the structure of the basement membrane in ex vivo human skin explants. Taken together, THG might be a promising treatment for aged skin by suppressing the aberrant YAP-CCN1 axis.
Psychometric Validation of the Severe Respiratory Insufficiency Quality of Life Questionnaire for the Chilean Adult Population Under Noninvasive Home Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: A. Marianela Andrade , T. Monica Antolini , H. Krishnna Canales , O. Cesar Maquilon , A. Mauricio Fuentes , P. Marinella Mazzei
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Noninvasive home mechanical ventilation (NIHMV) has an impact on the health-related quality of life of patients with chronic global respiratory failure (CGRF) of different causes. There are generic and specific questionnaires for various respiratory diseases, and recently, in 2003, a patient-specific questionnaire was developed for NIHMV, called the Severe Respiratory Insufficiency (SRI) questionnaire, which has been shown to be reproducible and reliable and has been validated in several languages. Objective: Validate the Chilean version of the SRI questionnaire (IRS-cl) in adults with CGRF who use NIHMV. Methods: Cross-sectional study with non-probabilistic convenience sampling of stable patients from five regions of Chile. The IRS-cl and SF-36 (gold standard) questionnaires were applied, and demographic and ventilatory data were collected. Reliability was analyzed using Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation (test-retest). Construct validity was tested using exploratory factor analysis (principal component extraction and equimax orthogonal rotation) and hypothesis testing (Mann-Whitney test). Convergent criterion validity was tested using Spearman’s rho. Results: The sample comprised 248 patients, 132 of whom were women (53.2%), with a median age of 62±17.5 years. There was a predominance of older adults, and 40% had a low education level. The completion time of the questionnaire was 18.8 ± 9.1 minutes (viable), and 100% of the items were answered. The questionnaire was self-applied by 46.8% of the sample. The IRS-cl showed very good overall reliability (0.95) and by scales (>0.7). It also showed a good correlation with the SF-36, with equivalent scales, a rotated matrix with 8 factors and hypotheses that explain the underlying constructs. Conclusions: The IRS-cl has good psychometric properties. It is feasible, valid and reliable for application to evaluate CGRF of various causes. It was found to be sensitive to assess the characteristics of the local population.
Direct and indirect viral associations predict coexistence in wild plant virus communities
Authors: Norberg Anna , Susi Hanna , Sallinen Suvi , Safdari Pezhman , Clark Nicholas , Laine Anna-Liisa
Published: July 2021

Integration of community ecology with disease biology is viewed as a promising avenue for uncovering determinants of pathogen diversity, and for predicting disease risks. Plant-infecting viruses represent a vastly underestimated component of biodiversity with potentially important ecological and evolutionary roles. We performed hierarchal spatial analysis of wild plant populations to characterise the diversity and coexistence structure of within-host virus communities, and their predictors. Our results show that these virus communities are characterised by single infections of few, dominating virus taxa as well as diverse, non-random coinfections. Using a novel graphical modelling framework we demonstrate that after accounting for environmental heterogeneity at the level of both individual host plants and populations, most virus co-occurrence patterns can be attributed to virus-virus associations. Moreover, we show that conditioning variables changed virus association networks especially through their indirect effects. This highlights a previously underestimated mechanism of how human-driven environmental change can influence disease risks.
Enhanced Anti-Angiogenic and Anticancer Efficacy of Nanoformulated Catechin in the Chemoprevention of Skin Cancer
Authors: Sudha Thangirala , Salaheldin Taher A , Darwish Noureldien H E , Mousa Shaker A
Published: July 2021

Aim: Nontoxic epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea significantly inhibits tumors in many cancers, including melanoma. Despite the benefits, EGCG has poor stability therefore, to enhance bioavailability and anticancer efficiency, we synthesized 3 nanoformulations. Methods: In Nano 1, ZnO nanoparticles were used for encapsulating EGCG. For Nano 2, EGCG nanoformulation was prepared with co-polymeric nanoparticle-encapsulated formulations of lycopene. Olive oil nano emulsion was used in EGCG Nano 3. Evaluated physical characteristics and anticancer efficacy in chick chorioallantoic membrane tumor model. Results: Nanoformulations were stable with high EGCG encapsulation efficiency and loading. They inhibited melanoma growth effectively than free EGCG. Conclusion: Nanoformulations preparation methods efficiently prevented the loss of EGCG activity and is a favorable approach for the treatment of melanoma.
High Rate of Multidrug-resistance Among Clinical Isolates of Gram-negative Bacteria in Hospitalized Patients With Febrile Diseases in Central Ethiopia
Authors: Tufa Tafese B , Mackenzie Colin R , Orth Hans Martin , Wienemann Tobias , Nordmann Tamara , Abdissa Sileshi , Hurissa Zewdu , Schönfeld Andreas , Bosselmann Matthias , Häussinger Dieter , Pfeffer Klaus , Luedde Tom , Fuchs Andre , Feldt Torsten
Published: July 2021

Background Infectious diseases are among the leading causes of death in many low-income countries such as Ethiopia. Without reliable local data concerning causative pathogens and antimicrobial resistance, empirical treatment is suboptimal. The objective of this study was the characterization of Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) as pathogens and their resistance pattern in hospitalized patients with infections in Central Ethiopia. MethodsPatients ≥1 year of age with fever admitted to the Asella Referral and Teaching Hospital from April 2016 to June 2018 were included. Blood and other appropriate clinical specimens were collected and cultured on appropriate media. Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) was performed using the Kirby-Bauer method and VITEK® 2. Species identification and detection of resistance-genes were conducted using MALDI-ToF-MS (VITEK® MS) and PCR respectively. ResultsOf 684 study participants, 54.2% were male and median age was 22.0 (IQR: 14-35) years. Blood cultures were positive in 5.4% (n=37). In other clinical samples, cultures were positive in 60.6% (20/33), 20.8% (5/24), and 37.5% (3/8) in swabs/pus, urine and other body fluids, respectively. Of 66 pathogenic isolates, 57.6% (n=38) were GNB, (39.4% (n=26) Gram-positive and 3.0% (n=2) were candida species. Among the isolated GNB, 42.1% (16/38) were E. coli, 23.7% (9/38) K. pneumoniae and 10.5% (4/38) P. aeruginosa. In total, 27/38 Gram-negative isolates were available for further analysis. Resistance rates were: ampicillin/sulbactam 92.6% (n=25), cefotaxime 88.9% (n=24), ceftazidime 74.1% (n=20), cefepime 74.1% (n=20), gentamicin 55.6% (n=15), piperacillin/tazobactam 48.1% (n=13), meropenem 7.4% (n=2), and amikacin 3.7% (n=1). The NDM-1 gene was detected in one K. pneumoniae and one A. baumannii isolate, which carried an additional OXA-51 gene. Genes for ESBLs were detected in 81.5% (n=22) isolates as follows: TEM 77.2% (n=17), CTX-M-1-group 68.2% (n=15), SHV-group 27.3% (n=6) and CTX-M-9-group 9.1% (n=2). Clinical treatment data revealed ineffective antimicrobial treatment in 13 of 18 (72.2%) patients.ConclusionWe report a high prevalence of ESBL-producing bacteria (81.5%) and carbapenem-resistance (7.4%), with more than half of the GNB carrying two or more ESBL genes resulting in sub-optimal empiric antibiotic therapy. These findings indicate a need for local and national antimicrobial resistance surveillance and strengthening of antimicrobial stewardship programs.
Secondary Malignancy in Giant Cell Tumor: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Joo Min Wook , Lee Yong-Suk , Park Hong Sik , Chung Yang-Guk , Yoon Chiyoung
Published: July 2021

Giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) uncommonly undergoes sarcomatous transformation. Secondary malignancy in giant cell tumor (MGCT) develops at the prior treatment site, and is associated with radiotherapy and dismal prognosis. The objective of this study is to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics of MGCT patients. We reviewed medical records of patients with secondary MGCT. Twelve patients were analyzed including six females and six males, with a median age of 42.5 years. Benign recurrence occurred in five GCTB patients, who were not treated with radiotherapy. No pulmonary implants were observed. The median latency was 63 months. Nine patients were AJCC stage IIB, and three were stage IVA. The median follow-up period after malignant transformation was 62.5 months. Five patients developed local recurrence and six had metastasis. Five-year overall, recurrence- and metastasis-free survivals were 61.9%, 66.7% and 58.3%. The local recurrence of GCTB was a potential factor for metastasis-free survival. Difference in overall survival according to benign local recurrence was almost significant. In our series, the occurrence of secondary MGCT did not follow radiotherapy, contrary to the Western literature. The prognosis was better than the findings reported in previous studies. The local recurrence of benign GCTB could reflect the prognosis of MGCT.
Impact of Total Protein Level and Dysglycaemia on the Efficacy of Clopidogrel in Patients Underwent Carotid Artery Stenosis with CYP2C19 Genetic Variants
Authors: Hao Sijia , Hu Xinyuan , Yang Zhongxi , Yin Haoyuan , Li Yanjiao , Wang Xinlu , Zhao Yuhao , Piao Jianmin , Chen Xuan , Jiang Yanfang
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND: CYP2C19polymorphisms are associated with the increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular/cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) in cerebral intervention. In this study, we wanted to investigate whether the CYP2C19 polymorphism and other nongenetic factors can influence the incidence of MACCEs in cerebral artery stenosis disease patients.METHODS: A total of 164 patients underwent cerebral artery stenting and 138 patients underwent conservative treatment among 1406 who patients underwent CYP2C19 gene screening and were enrolled in this study. A Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan–Meier analyses were used to assess the predictive value of CYP2C19 loss-of-function (LOF) allele (*2, *3) carrier status and other risk factors.RESULTS: The CYP2C19 *1/*1 genotype was observed to be the most predominant among the patients (41.96%). The patients who underwent conservative treatment and had glucose levels> 6.5 mmol/L were more likely to experience MACCEs (p = 0.022). CYP2C19 LOF allele variants (p = 0.032), total protein < 65 g/L (p = 0.017) and glucose > 6.5 mmol/L (p = 0.028) were associated with an increased risk of MACCEs in patients who underwent cerebral artery stents in the multivariable Cox analysis.CONCLUSION: CYP2C19 polymorphisms, total protein levels and glucose can impact the risk of MACCEs in patients who undergo cerebral artery stents.
The Impact of the PCSK-9 / VLDL-Receptor Axis on Inflammatory Cell Polarization
Authors: Barcena Maria Luisa , Estepa Misael , Marx Louis , Breiter Anne , Haritonow Natalie , Stawowy Philipp
Published: July 2021

Background: Studies have shown that lipoproteins, including LDL, VLDL, and ApoE2 have an impact on macrophage polarization, important to atherosclerosis progression. PCSK9 is a key mediator regulating the expression of lipoprotein receptors. The present study investigates the effect of the VLDL/VLDL-R axis on mononuclear cell polarization, as well as the role of PCSK9 and PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) within this network.Methods: Human monocytic THP-1 cells and human monocyte-derived macrophages isolated from PBMC were treated with LPS/IFN-γ to induce a pro-inflammatory phenotype or with IL-4 /IL-13 to induce an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Cells were then subjected to further treatments including VLDL, LDL, PCSK9, PCSK9i, anti-LDL-R; PMA and TSP-1.Results: LPS/IFN-γ treatment promoted a pro-inflammatory state with an increased expression of pro-inflammatory mediators e.g., TNF-α, CD80, and IL-1β. VLDL co-treatment induced a switch of this pro-inflammatory phenotype to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. In pro-inflammatory cells, VLDL significantly decreased the expression of the M1-markers e.g., TNF-α, CD80, and IL-1β. These effects were eliminated by PCSK9 and restored by co-incubation with a PCSK9i. Migration assays demonstrated that pro-inflammatory cells displayed a significantly higher invasive capacity compared to untreated cells or anti-inflammatory cells. Moreover, pro-inflammatory cell chemotaxis was significantly decreased by VLDL-mediated acquisition of the anti-inflammatory phenotype. PCSK9 significantly lessened this VLDL-mediated migration inhibition, which was reversed by the PCSK9i.Conclusion: VLDL promotes macrophage differentiation towards the anti-inflammatory phenotype. PCSK9, via its capacity to inhibit VLDL-R expression, reverses the VLDL-mediated anti-inflammatory switch, thereby promoting a pro-inflammatory phenotype. Thus, anti-PCSK9 therapies may exert pro-inflammatory suppression within the vessel wall.
A Rapid and Highly Efficient Genotyping Pipeline for Screening Gene Targeted Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Caothien Roger , Yu Charles , Tam Lucinda , Newman Robert , Nakao Brian , Alcantar Tuija , Baccaro Natasha , Reyes Juan , Pham Anna , Roose-Girma Merone
Published: July 2021

Gene targeting in mouse ES cells replaces or modifies genes of interest; conditional alleles, reporter knock-ins, and amino acid changes are common examples of how gene targeting is used. For example, enhanced green fluorescent protein or Cre recombinase is placed under the control of endogenous genes to define promoter expression patterns. The most important step in the process is to demonstrate that a gene targeting vector is correctly integrated in the genome at the desired chromosomal location. The rapid identification of correctly targeted ES cell clones is facilitated by proper targeting vector construction, rapid screening procedures, and advances in cell culture. The addition of magnetic activated cell sorting (MACS) technology and multiplex droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) to the ES cell screening process can achieve a greater than 60% assurance that ES clones are correctly targeted. In a further refinement of the process, drug selection cassettes are removed from ES cells with adenovirus technology. This improved workflow reduces the time needed to generate preclinical animal models. Faster access to animal models for therapeutic target identification and experimental validation can accelerate the development of therapies for human disease.
Biomarkers of Ageing in Dogs
Authors: ISAKA MITSUHIRO , ARAKI RYUJI , UENO HIROSHI
Published: July 2021

Gerontology is a major research topic in veterinary medicine. Although several reports have shown that aging in companion dogs is similar to human aging, there are few reports on changes in biomarker levels in aged dogs. The purpose of this preliminary study was to evaluate the differences in biomarker levels between young and old companion dogs, focusing on cardiovascular and musculoskeletal biomarkers. The young dogs included those aged under 36 months (n = 16, 19.8 ± 9.3 months), while the old ones included those aged over 108 months (n = 16, 155.8 ± 22.8 months). All dogs were referred to our university due to patellar luxation. The mean weight of the young and old dogs was 2.9 ± 0.9 kg and 4.0 ± 1.1 kg, respectively. We measured the serum concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), osteoprotegerin (OPG), angiotensin II (ANGII), and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in both groups. Although the concentrations of BDNF did not differ between the two groups, the OPG, ANGII, and ET- 1 levels were significantly higher in the old companion dogs than in the young dogs. The results showed that the concentration of some biomarkers may increase as dogs age, especially OPG, ANGII, and ET- 1. This may inspire further research on osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases in elderly dogs.
Transmissibility of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in 97 Counties of Jiangsu Province, China, 2015- 2020
Authors: Zhang Wei , Rui Jia , Cheng Xiaoqing , Deng Bin , Zhang Hesong , Huang Lijing , Zhang Lexin , Zuo Simiao , Li Junru , Huang XingCheng , Su Yanhua , Zhao Benhua , Niu Yan , Li Hongwei , Hu Jian-li , Chen Tianmu
Published: July 2021

Background: Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) has been a serious disease burden in the Asia Pacific region represented by China, and the transmission characteristics of HFMD in regions haven’t been clear. This study calculated the transmissibility of HFMD at county levels in Jiangsu Province, China, analyzed the differences of transmissibility and explored the reasons.Methods: We built susceptible-exposed-infectious-asymptomatic-removed (SEIAR) model for seasonal characteristics of HFMD, estimated effective reproduction number (Reff) by fitting the incidence of HFMD in 97 counties of Jiangsu Province from 2015 to 2020, compared incidence rate and transmissibility in different counties by non -parametric test, rapid cluster analysis and rank-sum ratio.Results: The average daily incidence rate was between 0 and 4 per 100,000 in Jiangsu province from 2015-2020. The 97 counties could be divided into three levels: low incidence, medium incidence and high incidence, and occurred that the average daily incidence rate dropped sharply in 2016-2017, and increased sharply in 2017-2018 years. The Quartile of Reff in Jiangsu Province from 2015 to 2020 was 1.54 (0.49, 2.50), Rugao district in Central Jiangsu and Jianhu district in Northern Jiangsu had the highest transmissibility by rank-sum ratio. Reff generally decreased in 2017 and increased in 2018 in most counties, and the median level of Reff was lowest in 2017 (P<0.05).Conclusion: Transmissibility was different in 97 counties of Jiangsu Province, and the reasons for the differences may be related to the climate, demographic characteristics, virus subtypes, vaccination and other infectious diseases.
Shielding surfaces from viruses and bacteria with a multifunctional coating
Authors: Ashok Deepu , Taheri Mahdiar , Webb Daryl , Parajuli Pawan , Garg Puneet , Wang Yi , Funnell Bronte , Taylor Bradley , Tscharke David , Tsuzuki Takuya , Verma Naresh , Tricoli Antonio , Nisbet David
Published: July 2021

The spread of viral and bacterial pathogens mediated by contact with surfaces is a leading cause of infection worldwide. COVID-19 as well as the continuous rise of deaths associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria highlights the need to impede surface-mediated transmission. We report a sprayable coating with an intrinsic ability to resist the uptake of bacteria and viruses from surfaces and droplets, such as those generated by sneezing or coughing. Our coating also provides an effective microbicidal functionality against bacteria, providing a dual barrier against pathogen uptake and transmission. This antimicrobial functionality is fully preserved following scratching and other induced damage to its surface or 9 days of submersion in a highly concentrated suspension of bacteria.
Pretreatment with a GnRH Agonist and Hormone Replacement Treatment Protocol Could not Improve Live Birth Rate for PCOS Women Undergoing Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer Cycles: A Retrospective Cohort Study using Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Liu Xitong , Shi Juanzi , Bai Haiyan
Published: July 2021

Background: The optimal means to prepare the endometrial preparation for PCOS patients is a topic of ongoing controversy. Our objective was to compare the clinical outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) with and without pretreatment gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we evaluated 1638 consecutive cycles between June 2014 and December 2017 in the Assisted Reproduction Center of Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital. The patients who underwent FET were assigned to two groups as follows: hormone replacement treatment (HRT) group, comprising 1115 cycles; HRT with GnRHa pretreatment (GnRHa + HRT), comprising 523 cycles. Patients using GnRHa + HRT (n=519) were matched with 519 patients using HRT. Results: The live birth rate was higher in the GnRHa + HRT group compared with the HRT group with no significant difference (60.4% vs 55.5%, p=0.062). The clinical pregnancy rate (72.74% vs 75.33%), miscarriage rate (14.26% vs 13.96%) and ectopic pregnancy rate (0.36% vs 0.38%) were similar between the two groups. The preterm birth rate in HRT was lower than GnRHa + HRT (14.08% vs 20.08%). There were no significant interactions in any of the subgroups (p>0.05 for all comparisons). In the unadjusted model and adjusted model, the live birth rate was comparable between GnRHa + HRT and HRT group (OR 1.22, 95%CI, 0.99-1.51, p=0.062; aOR 1.56, 95%CI, 1.001-2.41, p=0.048). Similar results were obtained after propensity score matching in the entire cohort. Conclusions: GnRHa pretreatment could not improve the live birth rate in women with PCOS.
Early changes in lymphocyte/monocyte ratio on-treatment as a prognostic marker to predict overall survival in patients with advanced cancer treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Patel Sandip H. , Zhao Songzhu , Li Mingjia , Wei Lai , Husain Marium , Spakowicz Daniel , Grogan Madison , JohnS Andrew , Burkart Jarred , Lopez Gabrielle , He Kai , Bertino Erin M , Shields Peter G. , Carbone David P , Verschraegen Claire F. , Otterson Gregory A. , Kendra Kari , Presley Carolyn J. , Owen Dwight H.
Published: July 2021

Background

A low absolute lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR) in the peripheral blood is associated with poor prognosis in various cancers; however, its role as a predictive biomarker has not been well defined in the era of treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI).
Methods

We queried a database of advanced cancer patients treated with at least one dose of ICI from 2011 to 2017 to study the association of LMR with overall survival (OS). We calculated LMR at baseline and a median of 21 days after the first cycle of ICI (on-treatment LMR), and defined low if < 2 and high if ≥ 2. OS was calculated from the initiation of ICI to date of death or censored at last follow-up.
Results

1077 patients met the criteria for this study. Patients with low baseline LMR had a shorter median OS compared to patients with a high baseline LMR (8.5 vs 18.1 months, p < 0.01). In patients with a low baseline LMR, who on-treatment LMR increased to high had longer median OS compared to those whose on-treatment LMR remained low (16.8 vs 7.8 months, p < 0.001). Patients with a high baseline LMR and in whom on-treatment LMR remained high had longer median OS compared to patients with low on-treatment LMR (23.9 vs 9.2 months, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, high on-treatment LMR was most strongly associated with longer survival compared to low on-treatment LMR, regardless of baseline LMR.
Conclusions

Higher baseline and early changes in on-treatment LMR are associated with improved OS in cancer patients receiving ICI.