bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the directionality in the relationship between descriptive and injunctive parental and peer norms and snacking behavior in a three-year-cross-lagged study.
Authors: Bevelander Kirsten , Burk William , Smit Crystal , Woudenberg Thabo van , Buijs Laura , Buijzen Moniek
Published: March 2020

Background. People’s eating behavior is assumed to be influenced by what other people do (perceived descriptive norms) and what others approve of (perceived injunctive norms). It has been suggested that adolescents are more susceptible to peer norms than parental norms, because they experience a strong need for group acceptance that leads to conforming to peer group norms. The current study examined changes in snacking behavior and four types of social norms (i.e., parental and peer descriptive and injunctive norms) that promoted fruit and vegetable intake among adolescents. This study was the first to examine whether snacking behavior also influenced norm perceptions by testing the directionality of these associations.Methods. The study consisted of 819 participants (M [SD] age = 11.19 [1.36]; 46.1% boys), collected at three time points (T1 = 2016, T2 = 2017 and T3 = 2018) during the MyMovez project. Self-reported frequency of snack consumption, perceived parental and peer descriptive and injunctive norms were assessed. The primary analysis consisted of a series of cross-lagged autoregressive models specified in a structural equation modeling framework. Results. Model comparisons testing the descriptive and injunctive norms in separate models and in an additional combined model revealed evidence for bi-directional associations between norms and snacking behavior. Descriptive peer and parent norms were not found to have an effect on subsequent snacking behaviors. Perceived injunctive parental norms were positively associated with healthy snack food intake and negatively associated with unhealthy snack intake (forward direction). Injunctive peer norms were negatively associated with healthy snack food intake. In addition, higher unhealthy snack food intake was negatively associated with the perception of descriptive and injunctive parental norms one year later (reversed direction). We did not find peer norms to be more closely associated with changes in snacking behaviors compared to parental norms. Conclusions. Parents expecting their children to snack healthy had a positive influence on healthy snacking behavior whereas only acting as a healthy role model did not. Future research should address the possible interaction between descriptive and injunctive norms. Research should also take into account the bi-directional relations between eating behaviors and normative perceptions.
Structural equation modelling the ‘control of gut overgrowth’ in the prevention of ICU acquired Gram-negative infection.
Authors: Hurley James C
Published: March 2020

Background: Conceptually, the ‘control of gut overgrowth’ (COGO) is key to the mediation of infection prevention with ‘abnormal Gram-negative bacilli’ (AGNB) by Selective Digestive Decontamination (SDD). However, the relative importance of the SDD components; topical (TAP), enteral (EAP) and protocolized parenteral antibiotic prophylaxis (PPAP), versus other methods of infection prevention and versus other contextual exposures cannot be resolved within individual studies. Methods: Seven candidate generalized structural equation models (GSEM) founded on COGO concepts were confronted with Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter bacteremia as well as ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) data derived from >200 infection prevention studies. The following group level exposures were included in the GSEM models; use of TAP, EAP, PPAP, antiseptic and non-decontamination methods of infection prevention; proportion receiving mechanical ventilation (MV); trauma ICU; mean length of ICU stay and concurrency versus non-concurrency of TAP study control groups. Results: In GSEM modelling of Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter gut overgrowth (GO) as latent variables, anti-septic interventions had the strongest negative effect against Pseudomonas GO but no intervention was significantly negative against Acinetobacter GO. Strikingly, PPAP and concurrency each have positive effects in the model, EAP is neutral and Acinetobacter bacteremia incidences are high within TAP studies, moreso with PPAP exposure. Paradoxically, TAP (moreso with PPAP) appears to provide the strongest summary prevention effects against overall bacteremia and overall VAP. Conclusions: GSEM modelling of published AGNB infection data enables a test of the COGO concept. Paradoxically, Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas bacteremia incidences are unusually high among studies of TAP.
Physical Activity Reduces Anxiety And Regulates Brain Fatty Acid Synthesis
Authors: Liśkiewicz Arkadiusz Damian , Przybyła Marta , Wojakowska Anna , Marczak Łukasz , Bogus Katarzyna , Nowacka-Chmielewska Marta , Liśkiewicz Daniela , Małecki Andrzej , Barski Jarosław , Lewin-Kowalik Joanna , Toborek Michal
Published: March 2020

Physical activity impacts brain functions, but the direct mechanisms of this effect are not fully recognized or understood. Among multidimensional changes induced by physical activity, brain fatty acids (FA) appear to play an important role; however, the knowledge in this area is particularly scarce. Here we performed global metabolomics profiling of the hippocampus and the frontal cortex (FC) in a model of voluntary running in mice. Examined brain structures responded differentially to physical activity. Specifically, the markers of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle were downregulated in the FC, whereas glycolysis was enhanced in the hippocampus. Physical activity stimulated production of myristic, palmitic and stearic FA; i.e., the primary end products of de novo lipogenesis in the brain, which was accompanied by increased expression of hippocampal fatty acid synthase (FAS), suggesting stimulation of lipid synthesis. The changes in the brain fatty acid profile were associated with reduced anxiety level in the running mice. Overall, the study examines exercise-related metabolic changes in the brain and links them to behavioral outcomes.
The quality of clinical practice guidelines for preoperative care using the AGREE II instrument: a systematic review
Authors: Ciapponi Agustín , Elena Tapia-López , Sacha Virgilio , Bardach Ariel
Published: March 2020

Background

Our aim was to summarize and compare relevant recommendations from evidence-based CPGs (EB-CPGs).

Methods

Systematic review of clinical practice guidelines. Data sources: PubMed, EMBase, Cochrane Library, LILACS, Tripdatabase and additional sources. In July 2017, we searched CPGs that were published in the last 10 years, without language restrictions, in electronic databases, and also searched specific CPG sources, reference lists and consulted experts. Pairs of independent reviewers selected EB-CPGs and rated their methodological quality using the AGREE-II instrument. We summarized recommendations, its supporting evidence and strength of recommendations according to the GRADE methodology.

Results

We included 16 EB-CPGs out of 2262 references identified. Only nine of them had searches within the last five years and seven used GRADE. The median (percentile 25-75) AGREE-II scores for rigor of development was 49% (35-76%) and the domain ‘applicability’ obtained the worst score: 16% (9-31%). We summarized 31 risk stratification recommendations, 21.6% of which were supported by high/moderate quality of evidence (41% of them were strong recommendations), and 16 therapeutic/preventive recommendations, 59% of which were supported by high/moderate quality of evidence (75.7% strong). We found inconsistency in ratings of evidence level. ‘Guidelines’ applicability’ and ‘monitoring’ were the most deficient domains. Only half of the EB-CPGs were updated in the past five years.

Conclusions

We present many strong recommendations that are ready to be considered for implementation as well as others to be interrupted, and we reveal opportunities to improve guidelines’ quality.
Mapping lymphatic filariasis in Loa loa endemic health districts naïve for ivermectin mass administration and situated in the forested zone of Cameroon.
Authors: Beng Andrew A , Esum Mathias E , Deribe Kebede , Njouendou Abdel J , Ndongmo Patrick WC , Abong Raphael A , Fru Jerome , Fombad Fanny F , Nchanji Gordon T , Amambo Glory , Gandjui Narcisse TV , Biholong Benjamin , Ayissi Georges Nko , Mbia Patrick , Akame Julie , Enyong Peter I , Reid Steven D. , Tougoue Jean J. , Zhang Yaobi , Wanji Samuel
Published: March 2020

Background
The control of lymphatic filariasis (LF) caused by Wuchereria bancrofti in the Central African Region has been hampered by the presence of Loa loa due to severe adverse events that arise in the treatment with ivermectin. The immunochromatographic test (ICT) cards used for mapping LF demonstrated cross-reactivity with L. loa and posed the problem of delineating the LF map. To verify LF endemicity in forest areas of Cameroon where mass drug administration (MDA) has not been ongoing, we used the recently developed strategy that combined serology, microscopy and molecular techniques.
Methods
This study was carried out in 124 communities in 31 health districts (HDs) where L. loa is present. At least 125 persons per site were screened. Diurnal blood samples were investigated for circulating filarial antigen (CFA) by FTS and for L. loa microfilariae (mf) using TBF. FTS positive individuals were further subjected to night blood collection for detecting W . bancrofti . qPCR was used to detect DNA of the parasites.
Results
Overall, 14,446 individuals took part in this study, 233 participants tested positive with FTS in 29 HDs, with positivity rates ranging from 0.0% to 8.2%. No W . bancrofti mf was found in the night blood of any individuals but L. loa mf were found in both day and night blood of participants who were FTS positive. Also, qPCR revealed that no W. bancrofti but L.loa DNA was found with dry bloodspot. Positive FTS results were strongly associated with high L. loa mf load. Similarly, a strong positive association was observed between FTS positivity and L loa prevalence.
Conclusions
Using a combination of parasitological and molecular tools, we were unable to find evidence of W. bancrofti presence in the 31 HDs, but L. loa instead. Therefore, LF is not endemic and LF MDA is not required in these districts.
Normative Values of The Retinal Macular Thickness in a Middle Eastern Population.
Authors: Saad Mouna Al , Shatarat Amjad T. , AlRyalat Saif Aldeen
Published: March 2020

Background: Since the normative value of the retinal macular thickness is undocumented in the Middle East, the aim of this work is to assess the normative values of the macular thickness in healthy eyes in a Middle Eastern population and its relationship with age, sex, and laterality. Methods:116 individuals were randomly selected from volunteers visiting the Jordan University Hospital in Amman, Jordan. Measurements were obtained using the Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). Multivariate regression models were developed to obtain predicted normative values with adjustment to candidate variables. In addition, the effect of age, sex and laterality were evaluated. Results: The average central fovea macular thickness was 229.5 (±30.85) um. The quadratic value of the retinal macular thickness decreased from the superior value of 299.71 (±23.67) um (P=.001)to the inferior value of 296.46 (±28.85) um(P=.001) and a nasal figure of 93.63 (±26.86) um(P=.001). The temporal area has the thinnest value of 293.43 (±30.78) um( P=0.001). Central thickness was higher in males with a mean variation of 11.67 um (95% CI: 2.41 to 20.93) (p= 0.003). The thickness was highest within 3mm diameter from the center and decreased towards the periphery Eye sidedness didn’t contribute to variability of the macular thickness. Furthermore, we found a significant difference between age and central macular thickness (p= 0.001)as age was a positive predictor for macular thickness Conclusion: Our set of predicted normative data may be used to interpret measurement of the macular thickness in Middle Eastern population. The average fovea macular thickness among Jordanians is consistent with previously reported values. Normative values from additional Middle Eastern populations are required to appraise our module.
Treatment outcomes of patients with tuberculosis in war affected region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: AHMAD TAUSEEF , Jadoon Muhammad Ayub , Khan Muhammad , Haroon  , Khan Muhammad Mumtaz , Hussain Akbar , Musa Taha Hussain , Waqar Muhammad , Ejeta Eyasu , Karami Manoochehr , Alene Kefyalew Addis , Jin Hui
Published: March 2020

Background: Globally, tuberculosis (TB) remains the leading cause of death from a single infectious disease. TB treatment outcome is an indicator for the effectiveness of a national TB control program. This study aimed to assess treatment outcomes of TB patients and its determinants in Batkhela, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study was designed using all TB patients who were enrolled at District Head Quarter (DHQ) Hospital Batkhela, Pakistan, from January 2011 to December 2014. A binary logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with successful TB treatment outcomes defined as the sum of cure and completed treatment.
Results: A total of 515 TB patients were registered, of which 237 (46%) were males and 278 (53.98%) females. Of all patients, 234 (45.44%) were cured and 210 (40.77%) completed treatment. The overall treatment success rate was 444 (86.21%). Age 0-20 years (adjusted odds ratio, AOR= 3.47; 95% confidence interval, CI)= 1.54-7.81; P= 0.003), smear-positive pulmonary TB (AOR)= 3.58; 95% CI= 1.89-6.78; P= <0.001), treatment category (AOR= 4.71; 95% CI= 1.17-18.97; P= 0.029), and year of enrollment 2012 (AOR= 6.26; 95% CI= 2.52-15.59; P= <0.001) were significantly associated with successful treatment outcome.
Conclusions: The overall treatment success rate is satisfactory but still need to be improved to achieve the international targeted treatment outcome. Type of TB, age, treatment category, and year of enrollment were significantly associated with successful treatment outcomes.
Improving the conductivity of solid polymer electrolyte by grain reforming
Authors: Wei Zhaohuan , Ren Yaqi , Wang Minkang , Huo Weirong , Hui Tang
Published: March 2020

Polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) is considered to have great application prospects in all-solid-state li-ion batteries. However, the application of PEO-based SPEs is hindered by the relatively low ionic conductivity, which strongly depends on its crystallinity and density of grain boundaries. In this work, a simple and effective press rolling method is applied to reduce the crystallinity of PEO-based SPEs for the first time. With the rolled PEO-based SPE, the LiFePO4/SPE/Li all-solid li-ion battery delivers a superior rechargeable specific capacity of 162.6 mAh g-1 with a discharge-charge voltage gap of 60 mV at a current density of 0.2 C with a much lower capacity decay rate. The improvement of electrochemical properties can be attributed to the press rolling method, leading to a doubling conductivity and reduced activation energy compared with that of electrolyte prepared by traditional cast method. The present work provides an effective and easy-to-use grain reforming method for SPE, worthy of future application.
Inducing formation of L10-phase in concave-cube FePt nanoparticles by annealing under high magnetic field
Authors: Wu Chun , Zhuang Weibin , Niu Zhiyuan , Zhao Dong , Pei Wenli , Wang Kai , Wang Qiang
Published: March 2020

Concave-cube FePt nanoparticles (NPs) with anisotropy of shape and element were annealed under high magnetic field (HMF). The high temperature sphered the FePt NPs, and Pt content and grain size of the NPs were decreased during annealing process. The HMF strength didn’t affect the shape, size and composition of the FePt NPs, but induced the formation of L 1 0 -phase in the annealed NPs. The content and ordering degree of L 1 0 -phase increased with enhancing the HMF strength, which leaded to the increasing of coercivity in the annealed FePt NPs. This work suggests that application of the HMF annealing is an effective strategy to tune the microstructure and property of anisotropic FePt NPs.
What is the students’ opinion about using scenarios with manikins and Simulated Patients in undergraduate medical education?
Authors: Torres Kamil , Evans Phillip , Radczuk Natalia , Torres Anna
Published: March 2020

BackgroundMedical simulation has turned to be a well-developed educational technique at a postgraduate level, including, residency programs and continuing vocational training. However, its applicability has still not been clearly defined when providing education to undergraduate medical students.ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to determine the opinion of undergraduate medical students about the effectiveness of manikin-based and SP-based high-fidelity scenarios for learning clinical objectives. This is considered important in a discussion about the systematic implementation of SP-based simulation in undergraduate medical education.MethodsA mixed methods approach was used to collect the evidence. Triangulation included a literature review, semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire survey. The study was conducted among 6th-year medical students who experienced various clinical educational techniques.ResultsStudents preferred SP-based medical simulation, as they perceived it to be more life-like than with a manikin. It was also reported to be more effective for developing non-technical skills, including communication and interpersonal skills. However, when technical skills were taken into consideration, for instance, performing invasive and non-invasive procedures, students opted for using manikins or a combination of both. ConclusionsThe study results suggest that both manikins and SPs should be included in the medical curriculum from the beginning of students’ clinical experience. A combination of both modalities would ensure acquisition of skills, both technical and non-technical, required from contemporary health care professionals.
Echocardiography-Guided Hemodynamic Management of Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock in Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Alhabashy Walid S. , Shalaby Osama M. , Elgebaly Ahmed S. , Ghafar Mohammed S. Abd El
Published: March 2020

Background: Echocardiography (ECHO) is used to guide septic shock resuscitation, but without evidence for efficacy. Therefore, we compared the outcome of early goal-directed therapy (EGDT) and ECHO-guided management of hemodynamics in severe sepsis and septic shock. Methods: This is a single canter, randomized controlled trial conducted on 100 adult patients with severe sepsis or septic shock. Patients were assessed and treated either EGDT protocol (EGDT group) or ECHO-guided resuscitation protocol (ECHO group). Results: In this study, only 87 patients with severe sepsis/septic shock were analyzed; 45 patients in group I and 42 patients in group II. There was significant increase of norepinephrine, dobutamine doses, MV free days, time to normalization, time to weaning of vasopressors, total MV days and ICU and hospital stay in EGDT group compared to ECHO group. At 30 days, the mortality rate in EGDT group was 35.6% which was significantly higher compared to 14.3% in ECHO group. At 90 days, the overall mortality was significantly higher in EGDT group compared to Echo group (40.0% vs 16.7% respectively). Hazardous ratio of mortality was 1.630 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.123 - 2.366) and 1.653 (95% CI: 1.137 - 2.404) at 30 and 90 days respectively in EGDT group compared to ECHO group.Conclusion: In severe sepsis and septic shock, ECHO-guided management of hemodynamic resulted in decrease in mortality, lower total fluid intake, vasopressor and inotrope, earlier weaning of vasopressors and less MV days, ICU and hospital stay.
Clinical Features and Outcome Analysis of Patients Infected with Severe and Critical COVID-19 Associated Pneumonia
Authors: Xiong Yangmei , Feng Ying , Li Mengwei , Wang Jing , Zhang Xingguo , Chen Xiangyang , Rao Xin
Published: March 2020

Background

Until now, information on the clinical characteristics of severe and critical patients with COVID-19 is extremely limited.The aim of the present study was to analyse the clinical features of these patients and influencing factors of clinical outcome, and explore treatment effects of prone position on COVID-19 patients with severe ARDS.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on 55 COVID-19 patients in the ICU of Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University from January 6 to February 15, 2020 in Wuhan, China. Case data from each patient were collected and related clinical outcomes on day 14 of ICU admission were recorded. The follow-up deadline was February 29, 2020.

Results

Of the 55 patients included, 35 were male (63.6%), with an average age of 63.0 (SD 15.2) years, and 80.0% were patients over 50 years old. The first three symptoms were fever (36 cases, 65.5%), fatigue (13 cases, 23.6%), and cough (11 cases, 20.0%). The rate of invasive mechanical ventilation was 52.7% (29 cases); on the 14th day of ICU admission, 31 patients(56.4%) were improved, and 19 (34.5%) were worsened. On the 14th day after entering the ICU, a comparative analysis showed that peripheral blood CD4, CD8, and NK cell counts in deteriorated patients were significantly lower than those in improved patients (P<0.05). Meanwhile, concentrations of IL-10, IL-4, IL-6 and TNF-α in deteriorated patients were higher than those in improved patients (P <0.05). Among a total of 27 prone position sessions, the oxygenation index (PaO2 / FiO2 ) of 9 prone position sessions(33.3%) improved, and the PaCO2 in arterial blood gas analysis of 5 sessions(18.5%) improved.

Conclusion

The majority of patients with severe and critical COVID-19 in the ICU were over 50 years old and male. 52.7% need invasive mechanical ventilation. On the 14th day of admission, 56.4% of the patients improved, 34.5% of the patients deteriorated. The rate of deaths during hospitalization was 21.8%. The worsening of COVID-19 patients might be related to excessive inflammatory and immune responses. In addition, prone ventilation may improve oxygenation in some COVID-19 patients with severe ARDS, but a significant mortality benefit with proning was uncertain.
Levels of knowledge regarding malaria causes, symptoms, and prevention measures among Malawian women of reproductive age
Authors: Sixpence Alick , Nkoka Owen , Chirwa Gowokani C. , Milanzi Edith B. , Mangani Charles , Mathanga Don P. , Ntenda Peter Austin Morton
Published: March 2020

Background: Malawi is a malaria-endemic country and approximately 6 million cases are reported annually. Improving knowledge of malaria causes and symptoms, and the overall perception towards malaria and its preventive measures is vital for malaria control. Thus, the current study investigated the levels of knowledge of the causes, symptoms, and prevention of Malaria among Malawian women.Methods: We analyzed data from the 2017 wave of the Malawi Malaria Indicator Survey (MIS). In total, 3,422 women of reproductive age (15–49 years) were sampled and analyzed. We assessed the levels of women’s knowledge about 1), causes of malaria 2) symptoms of malaria and 3) preventive measures. The tertiles of the composite score were used as the cut-offs to categorize the levels of knowledge as ‘‘low”, ‘‘medium” and ‘‘high”. Multinomial logistic regression models were constructed to assess the independent factors while taking into account the complex survey design. Results: Approximately 50% of all respondents had high levels of knowledge of causes, symptoms, and preventive measures. The high level of knowledge was 45% for rural women and 55% for urban dwellers. After adjustment for known confounders, women of age group 15–19 years adjusted odds ratio ([aOR]: 2.576; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.692–3.921), women with no formal education (aOR: 3.733; 95% CI: 2.203–6.326), women whose household had no television (aOR: 1.504; 95% CI: 1.021–2.216), women :who had not seen/heard malaria message (aOR: 1.527; 95% CI: 1.197–1.948), women of Yao tribe (aOR: 1.954; 95% CI: 1.103–3.460) and women from rural areas had low levels of knowledge about the causes of malaria, symptoms of malaria, and preventive measures.Conclusions: The levels of malaria knowledge were reported to be moderate among adult women, underscoring the need to scale up efforts on malaria education. Beside insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) and prompt diagnosis, malaria can be best managed in Malawi by increasing knowledge of malaria causes, and symptoms especially for younger women, women with no formal education, women whose households have no media, women from Yao tribes and rural dwellers.
The clinicopathological and prognostic values of TAZ and YAP expression in gastric cancer
Authors: SHI SHUAI , HAN YING XIN , ZHANG RUI YU , ZHANG GANG ZHI
Published: March 2020

Background: The transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif(TAZ) and Yes-associated protein(YAP) are well-known members of the Hippo signaling pathway, which may correlated with organ development regulation and interaction between organ and tumor. At the same time, it is closely related to the occurrence and development of tumors. Methods: The purpose of this study is to explore a potential marker that is specific for gastric cancer. In our study, we designed a bioinformatics analysis of the clinicopathological features of TAZ and YAP mRNA expression in gastric cancer using Kaplan-Meier plotter, Oncomine and TCGA databases. Results: According to Kaplan-Meier plotter, the mRNA expression of TAZ and YAP are negatively related with the overall post-progression and first progression survival rates of gastric cancer patients(p＜0.05), even stratified by clinicopathological features(p＜0.05). As shown in Oncomine, TAZ and YAP mRNA expression is higher in gastric cancers than gastric tissue and gastric mucosa(p＜0.05). In TCGA data, univariate analysis showed that age, TNM staging, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis was correlated with prognosis in patients with gastric cancer(p＜0.05). COX multivariate analysis showed that age and distant metastasis are risk factors affecting the survival of patients with gastric cancer(p＜0.05). Conclusion: TAZ/YAP may be employed as a good molecular market for patients and might help researchers discover a targeted inhibitor for treating gastric cancer.
A Case Report on a Large, Peduncular Intra-abdominal Hepatocellular Carcinoma Extending into the Retroperitoneum
Authors: Omer Dana M , Dozier Jordan , Cao Zongxian , Zhu Hongfa , McCain Donald
Published: March 2020

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma is a primary liver malignancy often caused by viral hepatitis infection due to chronic inflammation and persistent cytokine release. Although rare, patients may present with large, pedunculated hepatocellular neoplasms that extend into the intra-abdominal space. Here, we present a case report on a 66-year-old male who was found to have such a mass that required careful pre-operative planning to complete a challenging, yet worthwhile, surgical intervention with R0 resection. Case Presentation A 66-year-old Caucasian male with a history of Hepatitis C presented with 4-5 months of abdominal pain, distention and weight loss. Imaging revealed a large heterogenous mass attached to the left lobe of the liver, with compression of the stomach, transverse colon and abdominal wall. Biopsy revealed hepatocellular carcinoma with extensive necrosis and ultimately the patient required surgical intervention, which required resection of omentum, partial gastrectomy, hepatectomy and extensive dissection of the mass to separate the tumor from the remaining intra-abdominal structures and the retroperitoneum. Conclusion Peduncular hepatocellular carcinomas vary in presentation and difficulty of resection. The prognosis and probability of successful surgical intervention depends on the level of differentiation, early staging, size of the neoplasm and invasion into surrounding structures. In this case, R0 resection was successfully performed.
Expression and functional characterization of a novel antimicrobial peptide: human beta-defensin118
Authors: Lin Qian , Xie KunHong , Chen Daiwen , Yu Bing , Mao Xiangbing , Yu Jie , Luo Junqiu , Zheng Ping , Luo Yuheng , Yan Hui , He Jun
Published: March 2020

Background: β-defensin 118 (DEFB118 ) is a novel host defence peptide (HDP) identified in human. To evaluate its potentials for future utilization, the DEFB118 gene was expressed in Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) and the recombinant protein was fully characterized. Methods: The DEFB118 protein was obtained by heterologous expression using E. coli Rosetta (DE3). Antibacterical activity of DEFB118 were determined by using various bacterial strains. IPEC-J cells challenged by E. coli K88 were used to determine its influences on inflammatory responses. Results: The E. coli transformants yielded more than 250 mg/mL D EFB118 protein after 4 h induction by 1.0 mM IPTG. The DEFB118 was estimated by SDS-PAGE to be 30 kDa, and MALDI-TOF analysis verified it is a human β-defensin 118. Importantly, the DEFB118 showed antimicrobial activities against both Gram-negative bacteria ( E. coli K88 and E. coli DH5α) and Gram-positive bacteria ( S. aureus and B. subtilis ), with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 4 μg/mL. Hemolytic assays showed that DEFB118 had no detrimental impact on cell viability. Additionally, DEFB118 was found to elevate the viability of IPEC-J2 cells upon E. coli K88 challenge. Moreover, DEFB118 significantly decreased cell apoptosis in the late apoptosis phase and down-regulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as the IL-1β and TNF-a in the IPEC-J2 cells exposure to E. coli K88. Conclusions: These results suggested a novel function of the mammalian defensins, and the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of DEFB118 may allow it a potential substitute for conventionally used antibiotics or drugs.
First report of bovine anaemia associated Theileria sinensis infection and phylogenetic analyses of partial gene sequences of Theileria and Anaplasma species detected in naturally infected Malaysian cattle
Authors: Agina Onyinyechukwu Ada , Shaari Mohd Rosly , Isa Nur Mahiza , Ajat Mokrish , Zamri-Saad Mohd , Mazlan Mazlina , Muhamad Azim Salahuddin , Kassim Afrah Alhana , Ha Lee Chai , Rusli Fairuz Hazwani , Hamzah Hazilawati
Published: March 2020

Background: Serious disease outbreaks in cattle are usually associated with blood pathogens. This study aims to detect blood pathogens namely Trypanosoma evansi, Theileria, Anaplasma and Mycoplasma species, and studied their phylogenetic relationships, haemato-biochemical abnormalities and erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) in Malaysian cattle. Methods: Molecular analysis was achieved by PCR amplification and sequencing of PCR amplicons of 18SrRNA gene of Theileria species, 16SrRNA genes of Anaplasma and Mycoplasma species, 16SrRNA gene of Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos, MPSP gene of T. orientalis and RoTaT1.2 VSG gene of Trypanosoma evansi, in sixty-one (61) Kedah-Kelantan X Brahman cattle from Pahang, Malaysia. Haemato-biochemical analyses were performed using automated analysers while EOF was determined with the aid of saline solutions. Results: PCR amplification produced the expected fragment sizes for MPSP gene of T. orientalis, msp4 gene of Anaplasma marginale, 16S rRNA gene of C. M. haemobos, RoTaT1.2VSG gene of T. evansi. Nucleotide blast demonstrated that sequences of the PCR amplicons showed a high degree of molecular similarity in comparison with reference sequences. Analysis of 18SrRNA gene sequences of Theileria species and 16S rRNA gene sequences of Anaplasma species revealed Theileria sinensis and Anaplasma platys as additional species detected in these cattle. Theileria species was the most detected blood pathogen in the sampled cattle. The blood picture of all cattle group revealed poikilocytosis, anisocytosis, rouleaux formation and degenerative left shift. Erythrocyte fragility values of all the cattle groups were above the reference range. Anaemia of the macrocytic normochromic type was observed in the Trypanosoma evansi; and Anaplasma platys + Theileria sinensis double species co-infected cattle. Normocytic normochromic anaemia was observed in the T. sinensis infected cattle group. Significant (p<0.05) increases in serum liver and kidney parameters, total protein, globulin, total and unconjugated bilirubin and decreased albumin was observed in the Trypanosoma evansi infected cattle.Conclusion: We present the first report of anaemia associated with Theileria sinensis infection in Malaysian cattle. Because of the high occurrence of bovine theileriosis and detection of Anaplasma platys, there is an urgent need for appropriate preventive and control measures, as Theileria species and A. platys are of great economic and zoonotic importance respectively.
Highly abundant core taxa in the blow within and across captive bottlenose dolphins provide evidence for a temporally stable airway microbiota
Authors: Vendl Catharina , Nelson Tiffanie M , Ferrari Belinda , Thomas Torsten , Rogers Tracey
Published: March 2020

Background: The analysis of blow microbiota has been proposed as a biomarker for respiratory health analysis in cetaceans. Yet, we lack crucial knowledge on the long-term stability of the blow microbiota and its potential changes during disease. Research in humans and mice have provided evidence that respiratory disease is accompanied by a shift in microbial communities of the airways. We investigate here the stability of the community composition of the blow microbiota for 13 captive bottlenose dolphins over eight months including both sick and healthy individuals. We used barcoded tag sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Four of the dolphins experienced distinct medical conditions and received systemic antimicrobial treatment during the study. Results: We show that each dolphin harboured a unique community of zero-radius operational taxonomic units (zOTUs) that was present throughout the entire sampling period (‘intra-core’). Although for most dolphins there was significant variation over time, overall the intra-core accounted for an average of 65% of relative abundance of the blow microbiota. In addition, the dolphins shared between 4 and 52 zOTUs on any of the sampling occasions (‘inter-core’), accounting for a relative abundance between 7 and 33% of any dolphin’s airway microbiota. The majority of the intra-core and all of the inter-core zOTUs in this study are commonly found in captive and free-ranging dolphins and have previously been reported from several different body sites. The blow microbiota of sick dolphins differed significantly from that of healthy dolphins, although we did not find evidence for a common impact of antimicrobial treatment. Conclusions: The airways of dolphins were colonized by an individual intra-core ‘signature’ that varied in abundance relative to more temporary bacteria. We speculate that the intra-core bacteria interact with the immune response of the respiratory tract and support its function. This study provides the first evidence of individual-specific airway microbiota in cetaceans that is stable over eight months.
High uptake of 68Ga-PSMA-HBED-CC and 18F-DCFPyL in the peritumoral area of rat gliomas due to activated astrocytes
Authors: Oliveira Dennis , Stegmayr Carina , Heinzel Alexander , Ermert Johannes , Neumaier Bernd , Shah Nadim Jon , Mottaghy Felix M. , Langen Karl-Josef , Willuweit Antje
Published: March 2020

Background Recent studies reported on high uptake of the PSMA ligands [68Ga]HBED-CC (68Ga-PSMA) and 18F-DCFPyL in cerebral gliomas. This study explores the regional uptake and cellular targets of 68Ga-PSMA and 18F-DCFPyL in three different rat glioma models.Methods F98, 9L or U87 rat gliomas were implanted into the brains of 38 rats. After 13 days of tumor growth, 68Ga-PSMA (n=21) or 18F-DCFPyL (n=17) were injected intravenously and animals were sacrificed 40 min later. Cryosections of the tumor bearing brains were analyzed by ex vivo autoradiography and immunofluorescence staining for blood vessels, microglia, astrocytes and presence of PSMA. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability was tested by coinjection of Evans blue dye (EBD). 68Ga-PSMA uptake after restoration of BBB integrity by treatment with dexamethasone (Dex) was evaluated in four animals with U87 gliomas. Competition experiments using the PSMA-receptor inhibitor 2-(Phosphonomethyl)pentane-1,5-dioic acid (PMPA) were performed for both tracers in two animals each.Results All tumors showed a strong 68Ga-PSMA and 18F-DCFPyL binding in the peritumoral area and moderate binding in the center of the tumors. PMPA administration led to complete inhibition of 68Ga-PSMA and 18F-DCFPyL binding in the peritumoral region. Restoration of BBB by Dex treatment reduced EBD extravasation but 68Ga-PSMA binding remained unchanged. Expression of activated microglia (CD11b) was low in the intra- and peritumoral area but GFAP staining revealed strong activation of astrocytes in congruency to the tracer binding in the peritumoral area. Conclusions High uptake of 68Ga-PSMA and 18F-DCFPyL in the peritumoral area of all glioma models is presumably caused by activated astrocytes. This may represent a limitation for the clinical application of PSMA ligands in gliomas. BBB permeability had a minor influence on tracer binding.
[18f]Feppa Pet Imaging For Monitoring Neuroinflammation In Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Zammit Matthew , Tao Yunlong , Olsen Miles , Metzger Jeanette , Vermilyea Scott , Bjornson Kathryn , Slesarev Maxim , Block Walter , Fuchs Kerri , Phillips Sean , Bondarenko Viktorya , Zhang Su-Chun , Emborg Marina , Christian Brad
Published: March 2020

Purpose The aim of this study was to examine whether the translocator protein 18-kDa (TSPO) PET ligand [ 18 F]FEPPA has the sensitivity for detecting changes in microglial activation in hemiparkinsonian rhesus macaques treated with allogeneic grafts of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived midbrain dopaminergic neurons (iPSC-mDA). Methods In vivo positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with [ 18 F]FEPPA was used in conjunction with postmortem CD68 immunostaining to evaluate neuroinflammation in the brains of hemiparkinsonian rhesus macaques (n = 6) that received allogeneic iPSC-mDA grafts in the putamen ipsilateral to MPTP administration. Results Based on visual inspection of the imaging data and assessment of radiotracer uptake, nonhuman primates with allogeneic grafts showed increased [ 18 F]FEPPA binding at the graft sites relative to the contralateral putamen. From PET asymmetry analysis of the images, the mean asymmetry index of the monkeys was AI = -0.110 ± 0.025. Evaluation and scoring of CD68 immunoreactivity by an investigator blind to the treatment identified significantly more neuroinflammation in the grafted areas of the putamen compared to the contralateral nucleus (p = 0.0004). [ 18 F]FEPPA PET standard uptake values normalized to the contralateral putamen (SUV norm ) showed a positive correlation with CD68 immunoreactivity ratings in the monkeys (Pearson’s r = 0.83; p = 0.0008). Conclusion These findings reveal that [ 18 F]FEPPA PET is an effective marker for detecting increased microglial activation and demonstrate sufficient sensitivity to detect small changes in neuroinflammation in vivo following allogeneic cell engraftment.
The contribution of serum cortisone and glucocorticoid metabolites to detrimental bone health in patients receiving hydrocortisone therapy
Authors: Dineen Rosemary , Behan Lucy-Ann , Kelleher Grainne , Hannon Mark J , Brady Jennifer J , Rogers Bairbre , Keevil Brian G , Tormey William , Smith Diarmuid , Thompson Christopher J , McKenna Malachi J , Arlt Wiebke , Stewart Paul M , Agha Amar , Sherlock Mark
Published: March 2020

Background: Glucocorticoid therapy is the most common cause of iatrogenic osteoporosis. Less is known regarding the effect of glucocorticoids when used as replacement therapy on bone remodelling in patients with adrenal insufficiency. Enhanced intracellular conversion of inactive cortisone to active cortisol, by 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1(11β-HSD1) and other enzymes leading to alterations in glucocorticoid metabolism, may contribute to a deleterious effect on bone health in this patient group.Methods: Study design: An open crossover prospective study randomizing ten hypopituitary men, with severe ACTH deficiency, to three commonly used hydrocortisone dose regimens. Measurements: Following 6 weeks of each regimen, patients underwent 24-hour serum cortisol/cortisone sampling, measurement of bone turnover markers, and a 24-hour urine collection for measurement of urinary steroid metabolites by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Serum cortisone and cortisol were analysed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).Results: Dose-related and circadian variations in serum cortisone were seen to parallel those for cortisol, indicating conversion of ingested hydrocortisone to cortisone. The median area under the curve (AUC) of serum cortisone was significantly higher in patients on dose A (20mg/10mg) [670.5 (IQR 621-809.2)] compared to those on dose C (10mg/5mg) [562.8 (IQR 520.1-619.6), p=0.01]. A negative correlation was observed between serum cortisone and bone formation markers, OC[1-49] (r=-0.42, p=0.03), and PINP (r=-0.49, p=0.01). There was a negative correlation between the AUC of night-time serum cortisone levels with the bone formation marker, OC[1-49] (r=-0.41, p=0.03) but there were no significant correlations between day-time serum cortisone or cortisol with bone turnover markers. There was a negative correlation between total urinary cortisol metabolites and the bone formation markers, PINP (r=-0.39, p=0.04), and OC[1-49] (r=-0.35, p=0.06).Conclusion: Serum cortisol and cortisone and total urinary corticosteroid metabolites are associated with alterations in bone turnover markers even at replacement doses of hydrocortisone suggesting a potentially negative role of tissue-specific metabolism of glucocorticoids on bone metabolism in patients receiving hydrocortisone replacement therapy.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of lncRNAs responding to iron deficiency in Oryza sativa
Authors: Wang Shoudong , Sun Shuo , Shou Huixia
Published: March 2020

Background: Iron (Fe) plays a vital role in various cellular processes in plants, including chlorophyll biosynthesis, photosynthesis and respiration. Fe deficiency directly affects crop growth and development, ultimately resulting in reduced crop yield and quality. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently been demonstrated to play critical regulatory roles in a multitude of pathways across numerous species. However, systematic screening of lncRNAs responding to Fe deficiency in plants has not been reported. In this work, genome-wide identification and characterization of lncRNAs responsive to Fe deficiency were performed by strand-specific RNA sequencing in rice. Results: In total, 6477 lncRNAs were identified. In Fe-deficient conditions, 47 lncRNAs were up-regulated and 33 lncRNAs were down-regulated in shoots, while 89 lncRNAs were up-regulated and 32 lncRNAs were down-regulated in roots compared to normal conditions. The lncRNAs that were differentially expressed under Fe-sufficient and -deficient conditions appear to be clustered in the genome. Among five monocotyledon species, 88 lncRNAs were conserved, but only 3 lncRNAs responded to Fe deficiency in shoots. Two lncRNAs were identified as putative target mimics of miRNAs that respond to Fe deficiency. Conclusions: Our results provide evidence that lncRNAs are involved in Fe-deficiency signaling pathway in plants, providing a new pathway for further investigation into Fe-regulatory and response mechanisms.
Genome-wide characterization of WRKY gene family in Helianthus annuus L. and their expression profiles under biotic and abiotic stresses
Authors: Yang Chong , Li Juanjuan , Islam Faisal , Hu Luyang , Wang Jiansu , Wang Jian , Xu Ling , Zhou Weijun
Published: March 2020

Background: WRKY transcription factors play important roles in various physiological processes and stress responses in flowering plants. However, the information about WRKY genes in Helianthus annuus L. (common sunflower) is limited. Results: Ninety WRKY (HaWRKY) genes were identified and renamed according to their locations on chromosomes. Further phylogenetic analyses classified them into four main groups including a species-specific WKKY group and HaWRKY genes within same group or subgroup generally showed similar exon-intron structures and motif compositions. The tandem and segmental duplication possibly contributed to the diversity and expansion of HaWRKY gene families. Synteny analyses of sunflower WRKY genes provided deep insight to the evolution of HaWRKY genes. Transcriptomic and qRT-PCR analyses of HaWRKY genes displayed distinct expression patterns in different plant tissues, as well as under various abiotic and biotic stresses. Conclusions: Ninety WRKY (HaWRKY) genes were identified from H. annuus L. and classified into four groups. Structures of HaWRKY proteins and their evolutionary characteristics were also investigated. The characterization of HaWRKY genes and their expression profiles under biotic and abiotic stresses in this study provide a foundation for further functional analyses of these genes and will be beneficial to crop improvement.
Fine mapping of a Phytophthora -resistance locus RpsGZ in soybean using genotyping-by-sequencing
Authors: Jiang Bingzhi , Cheng Yanbo , Cai Zhandong , Li Mu , Jiang Ze , Ma Ruirui , Yuan Yeshan , Xia Qiuju , Nian Hai
Published: March 2020

Background: Phytophthora root rot (PRR) caused by Phytophthora sojae ( P. sojae ), is one of the most serious limitation to soybean-production in the world. Identification of resistant gene(s) and incorporating them into elite varieties are an effective way for breeding to prevent soybean from being harmed by this disease. A valuable mapping population of 228 F 8:11 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross of resistant cultivar Guizao1 and susceptible cultivar BRSMG68 and a high-density genetic linkage map with an average distance of 0.81 centimorgan (cM) between adjacent bin markers in this population were used to map and explore the candidate gene(s).Results: In this study, the PRR resistance in Guizao1 was controlled by a single Mendelian locus, and was fine mapped to a 367.371-kb genomic region on chromosome 3 that harbours 19 genes, including 7 disease resistance (R)-like genes in the reference Willliams 82 genome. Quantitative real-time PCR assays of possible candidate genes revealed that Glyma.03g05300 was likely involved in PRR resistance.Conclusions: These findings of fine mapping of a novel Rps locus will serve as a basis for cloning, transferring of resistant genes and breeding of P. sojae resistant soybean cultivars through marker-assisted selection.