bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of polyvinyl alcohol-borax/agarose (PVA-B/AG) double network hydrogel utilized for the cleaning of works of art
Authors: Al-Emam Ehab Awad , Soenen Hilde , Caen Joost , Janssens Koen
Published: October 2020

Since cleaning of artworks may cause undesirable physicochemical alterations and is a nonreversible procedure, it is mandatory to adopt the proper cleaning procedure. Such a procedure should remove undesired materials whilst preserving the original surface. In this regard, numerous gels have been developed and exploited for the cleaning of various artwork surfaces. Lately, agarose (AG) and polyvinyl alcohol-borax (PVA-B) hydrogels have been widely employed as cleaning tools by conservators. Both hydrogels show some limitations in specific cleaning practices. In this work, we investigated the influence of including increased levels of agarose into PVA-B systems. For this reason, we performed a detailed characterization on the double network (DN) hydrogel including the chemical structure, the liquid phase retention, the rheological behavior, and the self-healing behavior of various PVA-B/AG double network hydrogels. These new hydrogels revealed better properties than PVA-B hydrogels and obviated their limitations. The inclusion of AG into PVA-B systems enhanced the liquid retention capacity, shape-stability, and mechanical strength of the blend. Furthermore, AG minimized the expelling/syneresis issue that occurs when loading PVA-B systems with low polarity solvents or chelating agents. The resultant double network hydrogel exhibits relevant self-healing properties. The PVA-B/AG double network is a new and useful cleaning tool that can be added to the conservators’ tool-kit. It is ideal for cleaning procedures dealing with porous and complex structured surfaces, vertical surfaces and for long time applications.
Cloning of long sterile lemma (lsl2), a single recessive gene that regulates spike germination in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: yang dewei , He Niqing , Zheng Xianghua , Zhen Yanmei , Xie Zhenxin , Cheng Chaoping , Huang Fenghuang
Published: October 2020

Background: Rice is a typical monocotyledonous plant and an important cereal crop. The structural units of rice flowers are spikelets and florets, and floral organ development and spike germination affect rice reproduction and yield.Results: In this study, we identified a novel long sterile lemma (lsl2) mutant from an EMS population. First, we mapped the lsl2 gene between the markers Indel7-22 and Indel7-27, which encompasses a 25-kb region. The rice genome annotation indicated the presence of four candidate genes in this region. Through gene prediction and cDNA sequencing, we confirmed that the target gene in the lsl2 mutant is allelic to LONG STERILE LEMMA1 (G1)/ELONGATED EMPTY GLUME (ELE), hereafter referred to as lsl2. Further analysis of the lsl2 and LSL2 proteins showed a one-amino-acid change, namely, the mutation of serine (Ser) 79 to proline (Pro) in lsl2 compared with LSL2, and this mutation might change the function of the protein. Knockout experiments showed that the lsl2 gene is responsible for the long sterile lemma phenotype. The lsl2 gene might reduce the damage induced by spike germination by decreasing the seed germination rate, but other agronomic traits of rice were not changed in the lsl2 mutant. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the lsl2 gene will have specific application prospects in future rice breeding.Conclusions: The lsl2 gene is responsible for the long sterile lemma phenotype and might reduce the damage induced by spike germination by decreasing the seed germination rate.
Assessment of serum macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), adiponectin, and other adipokines as potential markers of proteinuria and renal dysfunction in lupus nephritis. A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Gamez-Nava Jorge Ivan , Diaz-Rizo Valeria , Perez-Guerrero Edsaul Emilio , Muñoz-Valle Jose Francisco , Saldaña-Cruz Ana Miriam , Fajardo-Robledo Nicte Selene , Jacobo-Cuevas Heriberto , Nava-Valdivia Cesar Arturo , Alcaraz-Lopez Miriam Fabiola , Trujillo Xochitl , Huerta Miguel , Cardona-Muñoz Ernesto German , Gonzalez-Lopez Laura
Published: October 2020

Background To date, the association of serum macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and serum adipokines with lupus nephritis is controversial.Objective To assess the utility of serum MIF, leptin, adiponectin and resistin levels as markers of proteinuria and renal dysfunction in lupus nephritis.Methods Cross-sectional study including 196 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and 52 healthy controls (HCs). Disease activity was assessed by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI). Renal SLE involvement was investigated by renal-SLEDAI. MIF, adiponectin, leptin and resistin levels were quantified by ELISA. We assessed the correlations of quantitative variables by Spearman correlation (rs). Multivariable linear regression adjusted the variables associated with the severity of proteinuria. Results SLE patients had higher MIF (p=0.02) and adiponectin (p<0.001) than HCs. Patients with renal SLE involvement (n=43) had higher adiponectin (19.0 vs 13.3 µg/mL, p=0.002) and resistin (10.7 vs 8.9 ng/mL, p=0.01) than patients with non-renal SLE (n=153). Proteinuria correlated with high adiponectin (rs=0.19, p<0.009) and resistin (rs=26, p<0.001). MIF (rs=0.27, p=0.04). Resistin correlated with increased creatinine (rs= 0.18, p=0.02). High renal-SLEDAI correlated with adiponectin (rs=0.21, p=0.004). Multiple linear regression showed that elevated adiponectin (p=0.02), younger age (p=0.04) and low MIF (p=0.02) were associated with the severity of proteinuria. Low MIF and high adiponectin levels interacted to explain the association with the severity of proteinuria (R2=0.41).Conclusions High adiponectin combined with low MIF concentrations interact to explain the severity of proteinuria in renal SLE. These findings highlight the relevance of adiponectin, resistin and MIF as markers of LN.
Effects of Exogenous Adiponectin Supplementation in Early Pregnant PCOS Mice on the Metabolic Syndrome of Adult Female Offspring
Authors: Zuo Meng , Liao Guotao , Zhang Wenqian , Xu Dan , Lu Juan , Tang Manhong , Yan Yue , Hong Chenghao , Wang Yuxia
Published: October 2020

Objective: PCOS is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder with both reproductive and metabolic abnormalities. At present, PCOS has been confirmed to have a certain genetic background. Compared with healthy women, the vast majority of PCOS patients have hyperandrogenemia, and this excessive androgen exposure during pregnancy may affect the development of female fetuses. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of adiponectin intervention during early pregnancy of PCOS mice on the metabolic phenotype of adult female offspring.Methods: After the PCOS model was established, C57BL/6J mice were divided into maternal-control, maternal-PCOS, and maternal-PCOS+APN groups. DHEA-induced PCOS mice were supplemented with adiponectin (10 mg/kg/day) in the early pregnancy in order to eliminate adverse hormone exposure and then traced for endocrine indicators in their adult female offspring, which were observed for metabolism syndrome or endocrine disturbance and exhibited the main effects of APN. To further explore the underlying mechanism, the relative expressions of phosphorylated AMPK, PI3K, and Akt were detected in the ovaries of offspring mice.Results: The serum testosterone level of the maternal-PCOS+APN group in early pregnancy was significantly lower than that of the maternal-PCOS group (p < 0.01). The serum testosterone level in the offspring-PCOS+APN group was significantly lower than in the offspring-PCOS group (p＜0.05), the diestrus time characterized by massive granulocyte aggregation in the estrus cycle was significantly shorter than in the offspring-PCOS group (p＜0.05), and the phenotypes of PCOS-like reproductive disorders and metabolic disorders, such as obesity, insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, and hyperlipidemia, were also significantly improved in the offspring-PCOS+APN group (p＜0.05). Compared with the control group, the expression levels of phosphorylated AMPK, PI3K, and Akt in the offspring-PCOS group were significantly decreased (p＜0.05), while those in the offspring-PCOS+APN group were significantly increased (p＜0.05).Conclusions: APN intervention in early pregnancy significantly reduced the adverse effects of maternal obesity and high androgen levels during pregnancy on female offspring and corrected the PCOS-like endocrine phenotype and metabolic disorders of adult female offspring. This effect may be caused by the activation of the AMPK/PI3K-Akt signaling pathway in PCOS offspring mice.
Right ventricular failure in septic shock. Characterization, incidence and impact on fluid-responsiveness.
Authors: Vieillard-Baron Antoine , Prigent Amélie , Repessé Xavier , Goudelin Marine , Prat Gwenaël , Evrard Bruno , Charron Cyril , Vignon Philippe , Geri Guillaume
Published: October 2020

Objective: Incidence of right ventricular (RV) failure in septic shock patients is not well-known and Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) could be of limited value. We report the incidence of RV failure in patients with septic shock, its potential impact on the response to fluids, as well as TAPSE values. Design: Ancillary study of the HEMOPRED prospective multicenter study including patients under mechanical ventilation with circulatory failure.Setting: Multicenter intensive care unit studyPatients: 282 with septic shock were analyzed. Patients were classified in 3 groups based on central venous pressure (CVP) and RV size (RV/LV end-diastolic area, EDA). In group 1, patients had no RV dilatation (RV/LVEDA < 0.6). In group 2, patients had RV dilatation (RV/LVEDA ≥ 0.6) with a CVP < 8 mmHg (no venous congestion). RV failure was defined in group 3 by RV dilatation and a CVP ≥ 8 mmHg. Pulse pressure variation (PPV) was systematically recorded.Interventions: noneMeasurements and main results: 41% of patients were in group 1, 17% in group 2 and 42% in group 3. A correlation between RV size and CVP was only observed in group 3. Higher RV size was associated with a lower response to passive leg raising for a given PPV. A large overlap of TAPSE values was observed between the 3 groups. 63.5% of patients with RV failure had anormal TAPSE. Conclusions: RV failure, defined by critical care echocardiography (RV dilatation) and a surrogate of venous congestion (CVP ≥ 8 mmHg), was frequently observed in septic shock patients and negatively associated with response to a fluid challenge despite significant PPV. TAPSE was unable to discriminate patients with or without RV failure.
Characteristics and clinical outcomes of culture-negative and culture-positive septic shock: a single-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kim June-sung , Kim Youn-Jung , Kim Won Young
Published: October 2020

Background: We evaluated the characteristics and outcomes of culture-negative septic shock versus culture-positive septic shock.Methods: We performed a retrospective observational study of data from a prospective registry from 2014 to 2018. A total of 2,499 adult patients with septic shock were enrolled. The primary outcome was 90-day mortality, and the secondary outcomes were the length of hospital stay, a requirement for mechanical ventilation or renal replacement therapy, and in-hospital mortality.Results: Of 1,718 patients with septic shock, 1,012 (58.9%) patients were culture-positive (blood 803, urine 302, sputum 102, others 204) and the median pathogen detection time was 9.5 hours (aerobic 10.2 hours and anaerobic 9.0 hours). The most common site of infection among the culture-positive was the hepatobiliary tract (39.5%), while for the culture-negative was the lower respiratory tract (38.2%). The culture-negative group had a lower mean body temperature (37.3 vs 37.7 ℃), lactate (2.5 vs. 3.2 mmol/L), C-reactive protein (11.1 vs 11.9 mg/dL), and sequential organ failure assessment score (7.0 vs. 8.0) than that of the culture-positive group. However, 90-day mortality between the groups was not significantly different (32.7 vs 32.2%, p=0.83), and the other clinical outcomes also did not differ significantly. Moreover, a shorter culture detection time was correlated with a higher sequential organ failure assessment score but not with mortality.Conclusion: Patients with septic shock are frequently culture-negative, especially in cases where the infection focus is in the lower respiratory tract. Although culture-negative was associated with degree of organ dysfunction, it was not an independent predictor of death.
Effect of improved cookstove intervention on childhood acute lower respiratory infection in Northwest Ethiopia: A cluster-randomized controlled trial. 
Authors: Adane Mesafint Molla , Alene Getu Degu , Mereta Seid Tiku , Wanyonyi Kristina L
Published: October 2020

Background: Household air pollution exposure is linked with over 3.5 million premature deaths every year, ranking highest among environmental risk factors globally. Children are uniquely vulnerable and sensitive to the damaging health effects of household air pollution which includes childhood acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI). The use of improved cookstoves has been widely encouraged to reduce these health burdens. It is, however, unclear as to whether it is possible to prevent household air pollution-related disease burdens with biomass-fuelled improved cookstove intervention and the evidence regarding its child health effect still attracts wide debate. Therefore, we investigated the child health effect of improved baking stove intervention compared with the continuation of the open burning traditional baking stove.Methods: A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess the health effect of improved baking stove intervention. A total of 100 clusters were randomly allocated to both arms at a 1:1 ratio, and a total of four follow-up visits were carried out within one year immediately after the delivery of the intervention to all households allocated into the intervention arm. Data were analyzed in SPSS-22, and the intervention effect was estimated using a Generalized Estimating Equations modeling approach among the intention-to-treat population.Results: A total of 5,508 children were enrolled in the study across 100 randomly selected clusters in both arms, among which data were obtained from a total of 5,333 participants for at least one follow-up visit which establishes the intention-to-treat population dataset. The intervention was not found to have a statistically significant effect on the longitudinal childhood ALRI with an estimated odds ratio of 0.95 (95% CI: 0.89-1.02). Nevertheless, the longitudinal change in childhood ALRI was significantly associated with age, baseline childhood ALRI, location of cooking quarter, secondary stove type and frequency of baking event measured at baseline.Conclusions: We found no evidence that an intervention comprising biomass-fuelled improved baking stove reduced the risk of childhood ALRI compared with the continuation of an open burning traditional baking stove. Therefore, effective cooking solutions are needed to avert the adverse health effect of household air pollution, particularly, childhood ALRI. Trial registration: The trial was registered on August 2, 2018 at clinical trials.gov registry database (registration identifier number: NCT03612362).
Midwives’ identity and perspectives on the occurrence of disrespect and abuse in Maputo city: a qualitative study
Authors: Galle Anna , Manaharlal Helma , Griffin Sally , Osman Nafissa , Roelens Kristien , Degomme Olivier
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND: Midwifery care plays a vital role in the reduction of preventable maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity. There is a growing concern about the quality of care during facility based childbirth and the occurrence of disrespect and abuse (D&A) worldwide. While several studies have reported a high prevalence of D&A, evidence about the drivers of D&A is scarce. AIM: This study aims to explore midwives’ professional identity and perspectives on the occurrence of D&A in urban Mozambique. METHODS: A qualitative study took place in the central hospital of Maputo, Mozambique. Nine focus group discussions with midwives were conducted, interviewing 54 midwives. RQDA software was used for analysing the data by open coding and thematic analysis from a grounded theory perspective. RESULTS: Midwives felt proud of their profession but felt they were disrespected by the institution and wider society because of their inferior status compared to doctors. Furthermore, they felt blamed for poor health outcomes. The occurrence of D&A seemed more likely in emergency situations but midwives tended to blame this on women being “uncooperative”. The involvement of birth companions was a protective factor against D&A together with supervision. CONCLUSION: In order to improve quality of care and reduce the occurrence of D&A midwives will need to be treated with more respect within the health system. Furthermore, they should be trained in handling obstetric emergency situations with respect and dignity for the patient. Systematic and constructive supervision might be another promising strategy for preventing D&A.
Electrochemical detection of white spot syndrome virus with a silicone rubber disposable electrode composed of graphene quantum dots and gold nanoparticle-embedded polyaniline nanowires
Authors: Takemura Kenshin , Satoh Jun , Boonyakida Jirayu , Park Sungjo , Chowdhury Ankan Dutta , Park Enoch Y.
Published: October 2020

Background: With the enormous increment of globalization and global warming, it is expected that the number of newly evolved infectious diseases will continue to increase. To prevent damage due to these infections, the development of a diagnostic method for detecting a virus with high sensitivity in a short time is highly desired. In this study, we have developed a disposable electrode with high-sensitivity and accuracy to evaluate its performances for several target viruses.Results: Conductive silicon rubber (CSR) was used to fabricate a disposable sensing matrix composed of nitrogen and sulfur-co-doped graphene quantum dots (N,S-GQDs) and a gold-polyaniline nanocomposite (AuNP-PAni). A specific anti-white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) antibody was conjugated to the surface of this nanocomposite, which was successfully applied for the detection of WSSV over a wide linear range of concentration from 1.45 × 102 to 1.45 × 10⁵ DNA copies/ml, with a detection limit as low as 48.4 DNA copies/ml.Conclusion: The engineered sensor electrode can retain the detection activity up to 5 weeks, to confirm its long-term stability, required for disposable sensing applications. This is the first demonstration of the detection of WSSV by a nanofabricated sensing electrode with high sensitivity, selectivity, and stability, providing as a potential diagnostic tool to monitor WSSV in the aquaculture industry.
Cohort profile: Why do people keep hurting their back?
Authors: Klyne David Murray , Hoorn Wolbert van den , Barbe Mary Frances , Cholewicki Jacek , Hall Leanne , Khan Asad , Meroni Roberto , Moseley G. Lorimer , Nicholas Michael , O'Sullivan Lee , Park Rachel , Russell Glen , Sterling Michele , Hodges Paul William
Published: October 2020

Objective: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most disabling and costly conditions worldwide. It remains unclear why many individuals experience persistent and recurrent symptoms after an acute episode whereas others do not. A longitudinal cohort study was established to address this problem. We aimed to; (1) evaluate whether promising and potentially modifiable biological, psychological, social and behavioural factors, along with their possible interactions, predict LBP outcome after an acute episode; (2) compare these factors between individuals with and without acute LBP; and (3) evaluate the time-course of changes in these factors from LBP onset. This paper outlines the methodology and compares baseline characteristics between acute LBP and control, and LBP participants with and without follow-up. Results: 133 individuals with acute LBP and 74 pain-free individuals participated. Bio-psycho-social and behavioural measures were collected at baseline and 3-monthly for 12 months (LBP) or 3 months (control). Pain and disability were recorded fortnightly. Baseline characteristics were mostly similar between those who did and did not return for follow-up. Initial analyses of this cohort have revealed important insights into the pathways involved in acute-to-chronic LBP. These and future findings will provide new targets for treatment and prevention of persistent and recurrent LBP.
Drag Reduction by Application of Aerodynamic Devices in a Race Car
Authors: Nath Devang S. , Pujari Prashant Chandra , Jain Amit , Rastogi Vikas
Published: October 2020

In this era of fast-depleting natural resources, the hike in fuel prices is ever-growing. With stringent norms over environmental policies, the automotive manufacturers are on a voyage to produce efficient vehicles with lower emissions. High-speed cars are at a stake to provide uncompromised performance but having strict rules over emissions drives the companies to approach through a different route to keep the demands of performance intact. One of the most sought-after ways is to improve the aerodynamics of the vehicles. Drag force is one of the major setbacks when it comes to achieving high speeds when the vehicle is in motion. This research aims to examine the effects of different add on devices on the vehicle to reduce drag and make the vehicle aerodynamically streamlined. A more streamlined vehicle will be able to achieve high speeds and consequently, the fuel economy is also improved. The three-dimensional car model is developed in SOLIDWORKS v17. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is performed to understand the effects of these add on devices. CFD is carried out in the ANSYSTM 17.0 Fluent module. Drag Coefficient (CD), Lift Coefficient (CL), Drag Force and Lift Force are calculated and compared in different cases. The result of the simulations were analyzed and it was observed that different devices posed several different functionalities, but maximum drag reduction was found in the case of GT with spoiler and diffuser with a maximum reduction of 16.53%.
All-arthroscopic repair of Atzei class II and III triangular fibrocartilage complex tears using the FasT-Fix suture device
Authors: Tsai Mengchun , Lin Yi-Hsuan , Chiu Chih-Hao , Cheng Chun-Ying , Chan Yi-Sheng , Chen Alvin Chao-Yu
Published: October 2020

Background The study is aimed to propose an arthroscopic repair technique using a pre-tied suture device for peripheral TFCC (triangular fibrocartilage complex) tear with proximal component involvement. Methods Through a retrospective review in the medical records of patients who underwent unilateral arthroscopic repair for TFCC Palmer IB lesion between 2017 and 2019, 12 patients were arthroscopically diagnosed as proximal component tear and received more than one year follow-up postoperatively. The arthroscope was introduced from 6R portal to discriminate Atzei class II from III lesions by a “visualization test”, and to supervise the repair procedure using pre-tied FasT-Fix suture device from 3-4 portal. Two poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) blocks were further advanced along the device needle to finally seat outside the ulnar joint capsule, followed by gradually tightening the pre-tied suture loop until the TFCC periphery was securely repositioned and held stably. Results Operation time averaged 87 minutes. Four patients were diagnosed to be Atzei class II lesion as full thickness tear of distal component was arthroscopically identified from 6R portal while the other 8 exhibited partial thickness tear and were categorized as class III lesion. Follow-up averaged 15 months with a range of 12 to 24 months. Mayo modified wrist score improved from an average of 61.3 preoperatively to 90.4 at the latest visit. Conclusions A modified technique for diagnosis and all-arthroscopic repair in TFCC Atzei class II and III lesions using a pre-tied suture device is a feasible and safe option with promising results.
Identification of microflora related to growth performance in pigs based on 16S rRNA sequence analyses
Authors: Li Xin-Jian , Wang Mingyu , Xue Yahui , Duan Dongdong , Li Cong , Han Xuelei , Wang Kejun , Qiao Ruimin , Li Xiu-Ling
Published: October 2020

Intestinal microorganisms have been shown to be important factors affecting the growth performance of pigs. Therefore, to investigate the effect of the intestinal microflora structure on the growth performance of pigs, samples from Duroc (n=10), Landrace (n=9) and Yorkshire (n=21) pigs under the same diet and feeding conditions were collected. The fecal microbial composition was profiled via 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing. We also analyzed their growth performance. We found that Duroc and Landrace pigs had significant differences in average daily gain (ADG), feed efficiency ratio (FER), growth index (GI), and number of days taken to reach 100 kg ( P<0.05 ). Moreover, through analysis of the intestinal flora, we also identified 18 species of intestinal flora with significant differences between Duroc and Landrace pigs ( P<0.05 ). To eliminate the influence of genetic background, the differential intestinal flora of 21 Yorkshire pigs with differences in growth performance was analyzed. The results showed that there were significant correlations between Barnesiella , Dorea , Clostridium and Lactobacillus and pig growth performance. To explore the effect of the intestinal flora on the growth performance of pigs at the molecular level, Lactobacillus , which is the most abundant in the intestine, was selected for isolation and purification and cocultured with intestinal epithelial cells. qPCR was used to determine the effect of Lactobacillus on MC4R gene expression in intestinal epithelial cells. The results showed that Lactobacillus inhibited MC4R gene expression in these cells. The results provide a useful reference for further study of the relationship between the intestinal flora and pig growth performance.
Effects of icariin on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Wang Fang , Yang Zhiyong , Wei He , Gao Qinggao , Wang Kun , Zhou Yali
Published: October 2020

Background: Tissue engineering technology has been applied extensively for clinical research and human amnion mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) could cause mesenchymal stem cells to differentiate into the bone tissue. However, it is necessary to develop and identify the safer appropriate amount of osteogenic inducer. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of icariin (ICA) on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of hAMSCs.Methods: The morphology and phenotype of hAMSCs were discovered by flow cytometry and immunocytochemical staining. The osteogenic differentiation of hAMSCs under the influence of different concentrations of ICA were assessed by Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity substrate assay and Alizarin red Staining.Results: MTT assay revealed that the hAMSCs pretreated with ICA exhibited increased proliferation when compared with the control group, and the most optimum concentration of ICA was 1×10-6 mol/L. The combined analysis of ALP activity and ARS staining showed that ICA could significantly promote the osteogenic differentiation of hAMSCs, and the effect was most significant when the concentration of ICA was 1×10-6mol/L.Conclusion: All above results implied that ICA could significantly increase proliferation and enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of hAMSCs, especially when the concentration of ICA was 1×10-6 mol/L.Keywords: Human amniotic mesenchymal stem cell, Icariin, Proliferation, Osteogenic differentiation
An inverse association of weight and the occurrence of asymptomatic gallbladder stone disease in Hypercholesterolemia patients in northwest China: a case-control study.
Authors: Sheng Binwu , Zhao Qingbin , Ma Mao , Zhang Jianqin
Published: October 2020

Background: Despite the fact that the majority of gallstones formed in the gallbladder are mainly composed of cholesterol, as they are formed from cholesterol-supersaturated bile, and hypercholesterolemia is a common metabolic disorder, which is closely related to cardiac, hepatic, renal and other oxidative damage inflammation and necrosis , there is still no consensus regarding the contribution of blood serum lipids in the pathogenesis of gallbladder stone disease (GSD). Here, we aimed to investigate the relationship between hypercholesterolemia and the risk of new-onset asymptomatic GSD, and to determine the prevalence of factors associated with new-onset asymptomatic GSD in patients with hypercholesterolemia. Methods: In this case-control study, we enrolled 927 Chinese patients with new-onset asymptomatic gallstone disease and 845 healthy controls starting in August 2012. Patients were matched for age, gender, race, occupation, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose levels (FBG). Body mass index (BMI), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and serum lipids indexes were compared and the relationships between BMI, blood lipid and gallbladder stone hazards were examined by using logistic multivariate regression models. Results: The result showed a significant higher morbidity with GSD in hypercholesterolemia than non-hypercholesterolemia patients (Χ 2 =17.211, P <0.001). Of hypercholesterolemia patients, low density lipoprotein (OR=1.493, P=0.029) and NAFLD (OR=2.723, P =0.022) were significant risk factors for GSD, while male sex (OR=0.244, P=0.033), weight (OR=0.961, P =0.022), high density lipoprotein (OR=0.305, P<0.001), and FBG (OR=0.687, P =0.034) significantly negatively correlated with GSD in univariate analysis. Multivariate logistic regression indicated weakly positive correlations with NAFLD (OR=3.284, P =0.054), and significant negative correlations with weight (OR=0.930, P =0.018), HDL-c (OR=0.144, P <0.001), and GSD. Conclusion: Hypercholesterolemia acts as an independent risk factor for new-onset asymptomatic GSD, while obesity and NAFLD are synergistic factors. Interestingly, we are the first to report that elevated weight was inversely associated with GSD in patients with hypercholesterolemia. The results of this study suggest that it is crucial to control hyperlipidemia effectively first instead of weight loss which might make the situation worse，and this might be of great significance for prevention of GSD in obese patients with hyperlipidemia.
Long non-coding RNAs responsive to blast fungus infection in rice
Authors: Wang Lan-Lan , Jin Jing-Jing , Li Li-Hua , Qu Shao-Hong
Published: October 2020

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) have emerged as important regulators in many physiological processes in plant. By high-throughput RNA-sequencing, many pathogen-associated LncRNAs were mapped in various plants, and some of them were proved to be involved in plant defense responses. The rice blast disease caused by Magnaporthe oryzae ( M. oryzae ) is one of the most destructive diseases in rice. However, M. oryzae -induced LncRNAs in rice is yet to be studied.

Findings

We investigated rice LncRNAs that were associated with the rice blast fungus. Totally 83 LncRNAs were up-regulated after blast fungus infection and 78 were down-regulated. Of them, the natural antisense transcripts (NATs) were the most abundant. The expression of some lncRNAs has similar pattern with their host genes or neighboring genes, suggesting a cis function of them in regulating gene transcription level. The deferentially expressed (DE) LncRNAs and genes co-expression analysis revealed some LncRNAs were associated with genes known to be involved in pathogen resistance, and these genes were enriched in terpenoid biosynthesis and defense response by Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis. Interestingly, one of up-regulated DE-intronic RNA was derived from a jasmonate (JA) biosynthetic gene, lipoxygenase RLL (LOX-RLL). Levels of JAs were significantly increased after blast fungus infection. Given that JA is known to regulate blast resistance in rice, we suggested that LncRNA may be involved in JA-mediated rice resistance to blast fungus.

Conclusions

This study identified blast fungus-responsive LncRNAs in rice, which provides another layer of candidates that regulate rice and blast fungus interactions.
Effect of Probiotic Supplementation along with Calorie Restriction on Metabolic Endotoxemia, and Inflammation Markers in Coronary Artery Disease Patients: A Double Blind Placebo Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: moludi jalal , Kafil Hossein Samadi , Gholizadeh Pourya , Alizadeh Mohammad , Vayghyan Hamed Jafari
Published: October 2020

Purpose: Alterations in the gut microbiome (dysbiosis) has been associated with increased microbial translocation, leading to chronic inflammation in coronary artery disease (CAD). It has been proposed that modulation of gut microbiota by probiotic might modify metabolic endotoxemia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) on metabolic endotoxemia, and marker of inflammation in CAD participants. Methods: This study was a 12-weeks randomized, double-blind, and intervention on 44 patients with CAD. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either one LGG capsule 1.6 ×109 colony-forming unit (CFU) or the placebo capsules for 12 weeks. In addition, all the participants were also prescribed a calorie-restricted diet. Serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: A significant decrease in IL1-Beta concentration (-1.88 ± 2.25, vs. 0.56 ± 1.58 mmol/L, P=0.027), and LPS levels (-5.20 ±2.70 vs. 2.96+ 5.27 mg/L, P=0.016), was observed after the probiotic supplementation compared with the placebo. Participants who had ≥2.5 kg weight loss showed signiﬁcantly improved cardiovascular-related factors, compared to patients with <2.5 kg weight reduction, regardless of the supplement they took.Conclusion: These data provide preliminary evidence that probiotic supplementation has beneficial effects on metabolic endotoxemia, and mega inflammation in participants with CAD.
Decorating the Surface of Escherichia Coli with Bacterial Lipoproteins: A Comparative Analysis of Different Display Systems
Authors: Nicchi Sonia , Giuliani Maria , Giusti Fabiola , Pancotto Laura , Maione Domenico , Delany Isabel , Galeotti Cesira L. , Brettoni Cecilia
Published: October 2020

Background: The display of recombinant proteins on cell surfaces has a plethora of applications including vaccine development, screening of peptide libraries, whole-cell biocatalysts and biosensor development for diagnostic, industrial or environmental purposes. In the last decades, a wide variety of surface display systems have been developed for the exposure of recombinant proteins on the surface of Escherichia coli, such as autotransporters and outer membrane proteins.Results: In this study, we assess three approaches for the surface display of a panel of heterologous and homologous mature lipoproteins in E. coli: four from Neisseria meningitidis and four from the host strain that are known to be localised in the inner leaflet of the outer membrane. Constructs were made carrying the sequences coding for eight mature lipoproteins, each fused to the delivery portion of three different systems: the autotransporter adhesin involved in diffuse adherence-I (AIDA-I) from enteropathogenic E. coli, the Lpp’OmpA chimaera and a truncated form of the ice nucleation protein (INP), InaK-NC (N-terminal domain fused with C-terminal one) from Pseudomonas syringae. In contrast to what was observed for the INP constructs, when fused to the AIDA-I or Lpp’OmpA, most of the mature lipoproteins were displayed on the bacterial surface both at 37°C and 25°C as demonstrated by FACS analysis, confocal and transmission electron microscopy.Conclusions: To our knowledge this is the first study that compares surface display systems using a number of passenger proteins. We have shown that the experimental conditions, including the choice of the carrier protein and the growth temperature, play an important role in the translocation of mature lipoproteins onto the bacterial surface. Despite all the optimization steps performed with the InaK-NC anchor motif, surface exposure of the passenger proteins used in this study was not achieved. For our experimental conditions, Lpp’OmpA chimaera has proved to be an efficient surface display system for the homologous passenger proteins although cell lysis and phenotype heterogeneity were observed. Finally, , AIDA-I was found to be the best surface display system for mature lipoproteins (especially heterologous ones) in the E. coli host strain with no inhibition of growth and only limited phenotype heterogeneity.
Terahertz response of monolayer and few-layer WTe_2 at the nanoscale
Authors: Jing Ran , Shao Yinming , Fei Zaiyao , Lo Chiu Fan Bowen , Ruta Francesco , Staunton John , McLeod Alexander , Sun Zhiyuan , Chen Xinzhong , Fogler Michael , Liu Mengkun , Cobden David , Xu Xiaodong , Basov Dmitri
Published: October 2020

Tungsten ditelluride (WTe_2) is a transition metal dichalcogenide whose physical properties depend critically on the number of layers. In this paper, we use apertureless scattering-type near-field optical microscopy operating at Terahertz (THz) frequencies and cryogenic temperatures to identify distinct THz range electromagnetic behavior of WTe_2 mono-, bi- and tri-layer terraces in the same micro-crystals. We observed clear metallic behavior of the near-field signal on tri-layer regions. Our data are consistent with the existence of surface plasmon polaritons (SPP) in the THz range confined to tri-layer terraces in our specimens. The near-field signal on bi-layer regions surprisingly shows moderately metallicity, but with negligible temperature dependence. Subdiffractional THz imaging data together with theoretical calculations considering thermally activated carriers favor the semimetal scenario over the semiconductor scenario for bi-layer WTe_2. THz images for monolayer terraces uncovered weakly insulating behavior consistent with transport data.
Robust single-cell discovery of RNA targets of RNA binding proteins and ribosomes
Authors: Brannan Kristopher , Chaim Isaac , Yee Brian , Marina Ryan , Lorenz Daniel , Dong Kevin , Madrigal Assael , Yeo Gene
Published: October 2020

RNA binding proteins (RBPs) are critical regulators of gene expression and RNA processing that are required for gene function. Yet, the dynamics of RBP regulation in single cells is unknown. To address this gap in understanding, we developed STAMP (Surveying Targets by APOBEC Mediated Profiling), which efficiently detects RBP-RNA interactions. STAMP does not rely on UV-crosslinking or immunoprecipitation and, when coupled with single-cell capture, can identify RBP- and cell type-specific RNA-protein interactions for multiple RBPs and cell types in single-pooled experiments. Pairing STAMP with long-read sequencing also yields RBP target sites for full-length isoforms. Finally, conducting STAMP using small ribosomal subunits (Ribo-STAMP) allows analysis of transcriptome-wide ribosome association in single cells. STAMP enables the study of RBP-RNA interactomes and translational landscapes with unprecedented cellular resolution.
Ion adsorption-induced reversible polarization switching of a van der Waals layered ferroelectric
Authors: Xu Dong-Dong , Ma Ru-Ru , Fu Ai-Ping , Guan Zhao , Zhong Ni , peng Hui , Xiang Pinghua , Duan Chun-Gang
Published: October 2020

Solid-liquid interface is a key concept of many research fields, enabling numerous physical phenomena and practical applications. For example, electrode-electrolyte interfaces with electric double layers have been widely used in energy storage and regulating physical properties of functional materials. Creating a specific interface allows emergent functionalities and effects. Here, we show the artificial control of ferroelectric-liquid interfacial structures to switch polarization states reversibly in a van der Waals layered ferroelectric CuInP2S6. We discover that upward and downward polarization states can be induced by spontaneous physical adsorption of anions [DDBS] and cations [DEME], respectively, at the ferroelectric-liquid interface. This distinctive approach circumvents the structural damage of CIPS caused by Cu-ion conductivity during electrical switching process. Moreover, the polarized state features super-long retention time (> 1 year). The interplay between ferroelectric dipoles and adsorbed organic ions has been studied systematically by comparative experiments and first-principles calculations. Such ion adsorption-induced reversible polarization switching in a van der Waals ferroelectric enriches the functionalities of solid-liquid interfaces, offering opportunities for liquid-controlled two-dimensional ferroelectric-based devices.
Electric-field control of field-free spin-orbit torque switching via laterally modulated Rashba effect in Pt/Co/AlOx structures
Authors: Kang Min-Gu , Choi Jong-Guk , Jeong Jimin , Park Jae Yeol , Park Hyeon-Jong , Yuk Jong Min , Lee Kyung-Jin , Park Byong-Guk
Published: October 2020

Spin-orbit coupling effect in structures with broken inversion symmetry, known as the Rashba effect, facilitates spin-orbit torques (SOTs) in heavy metal/ferromagnet/oxide structures, along with the spin Hall effect. Electric-field control of the Rashba effect is established for semiconductor interfaces, but it is challenging in structures involving metals owing to the screening effect. Here, we report that the Rashba effect in Pt/Co/AlOx structures is laterally modulated by electric voltages, generating out-of-plane SOTs. This enables field-free switching of the perpendicular magnetization and electrical control of the switching polarity. Changing the gate oxide reverses the sign of out-of-plane SOT while maintaining the same sign of voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy, which confirms the Rashba effect at the Co/oxide interface is a key ingredient of the electric-field modulation. The electrical control of SOT switching polarity in a reversible and non-volatile manner can be utilized for programmable logic operations in spintronic logic-in-memory devices.
Interventions to Reduce Benzodiazepine and Sedative-Hypnotic Drug Use in Acute Care Hospitals: A Scoping Review
Authors: Neville Heather L , Granter Courtney , Adibi Pegah , Belliveau Julia , Isenor Jennifer E , Bowles Susan K
Published: October 2020

Background Benzodiazepines and sedative-hypnotics (BZD/SHD) are commonly utilized in the acute care setting for insomnia and anxiety and are associated with cognitive impairment, falls, fractures, and increased mortality. Interventions to reduce use of BZD/SHD in hospitals are not well characterized. The objective of the scoping review was to identify and characterize interventions to reduce the use of BZD/SHD by adults for anxiety and sedation in hospitals.Methods We included studies and abstracts published in English that described an intervention to reduce BZD/SHD in adult hospital patients. Six databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science) and the grey literature (Opengrey, Grey Matters, Google Advanced) were searched up to July 2018. Titles and abstracts were screened and full-text articles were reviewed for potential inclusion by three independent reviewers. Data on each eligible study was charted in a Microsoft Excel® database. Stakeholder consultation occurred before and after the scoping review was completed. Results There were 9480 records identified from all sources and 35 studies were included in the scoping review. Included studies were divided into two categories that emerged from stakeholder feedback: sedatives prescribed in hospital or home medications. The most common study designs were pre-/post-test (24, 68.6%) and randomized controlled trials (6, 17.1%). The majority of studies tested a single intervention (28, 80%) and these were most commonly education, relaxation training and sleep protocols. Patients were frequently the target of relaxation training and behavior change interventions, while sleep protocols, multifaceted interventions and education were usually directed at healthcare providers, either alone or in combination with patients. Most studies reported positive outcomes in decreasing BZD/SHD use (23, 65.7%), including some that were statistically significant (13, 37.1%). Conclusions This scoping review found a variety of interventions aimed at decreasing the utilization of BZD/SHD in the acute care setting, where previously little was known. Current literature addressed the initiation of BZD/SHD in hospital, rather than chronic medications that had been prescribed in the community. Stakeholder consultation supported these findings and pointed out important factors to consider when designing an intervention for hospital patients. Registration: Open Science Framework, https://osf.io/u7s4h/?view_only=15a9b9134be743b6a4177ba2eec9e91a
Resolving Whether Inhalation of Depleted Uranium Contributed to Gulf War Illness Using High-Sensitivity Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Parrish Randall , Haley Robert
Published: October 2020

Background: Of the hypothesized causes of Gulf War Illness (GWI), a chronic multi-symptom illness afflicting approximately 25 percent of >700,000 military personnel deployed to the 1991 Gulf War, depleted uranium (DU) and exposure to nerve agents have stimulated the most intense international concern. Past depleted uranium research on Gulf War veterans has measured urinary uranium concentration [U] and uranium isotopic ratios with low precision mass spectrometry primarily in GW veterans with retained shrapnel but has not used high precision mass spectrometry to test for an association of GWI with inhaled DU and we set out to test this potential association. Methods: We applied a standard biokinetic model to predict the urinary total [U] and uranium isotopic ratios in urine 18 years after inhalation exposure. We applied high sensitivity mass spectrometry methods capable of detecting the predicted levels in 154 individuals of a population-representative sample of U.S. veterans in whom Gulf War illness had been determined by standard case definitions and DU inhalation exposures obtained by medical history. Results: Methods used in past studies are capable of detecting only the high urinary uranium excretion levels from retained DU shrapnel but not lower levels predicted from DU inhalation. Using high precision mass spectrometry, we found no difference in the 238U/235U ratio in veterans meeting the standard case definitions of GWI versus control veterans, and no differences by levels of DU inhalation exposure. Our bivariate analysis of 236U/238U by 235U/238U showed only the signature of natural dietary uranium, excluding DU inhalation exposures above 0.4 mg, far below the disease-causing threshold. Conclusion: The findings by high precision mass spectrometry support the conclusion that even the highest levels of DU inhalation played no role in the development of Gulf War illness. Other factors including exposure to aerosolized organophosphate compounds (pesticides and sarin nerve agent) remain as the most likely cause(s) of GWI.