bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tartaric Acid Synthetic Derivatives Activity Against Pseudomonas, Strenotrophomonas, Xanthomonas Phytopathogens and Oppotunistic Pathogens
Authors: Grigoryan Anna , Baghdasaryan Aghasi , Babayan Bella , Melkumyan Marina , Mikaelyan Aram
Published: May 2021

The multi-drug resistance is one of the most actual medical and ecological problem. Stenotrophomonas, Xanthomonas, Pseudomonas are common, drug resistant and highly adaptive phytopathogenic and opportunistic pathogenic microbes. Tartaric acid is natural safe antimicrobial agent. In current paper it is discussed the synthesis and antimicrobial activity of tartaric acid new derivatives, which were investigated in our laboratory. There were obtained benzyl, cyclohexyl and phenyl substituted imides as well as complex amine salts of tartaric acid. Their antimicrobial activity was tested on native soil Pseudomonas, Xanthomonas and Stenotrophomonas different strains from The National Microbe Collection of Scientific and Production Center (SPC) “Armbiotechnology” National Academy of Sciences of Republic of Armenia (NAS RA).As a result of cultivation on appropriate compound containing media, as well as genetical analyses of tested microbes and docking analyses, it was found out that tartaric acid carbocyclic and aromatic imides and complex salts are effective as non-selective growth inhibitors. Complex salts of tartaric acid are biodegradable by some soil strains of P. chlororaphis, etc. Thus, all the elaborated compounds can be recommended for further study of their activity as an effective alternative against the multi-drug resistant microorganisms.
Presence of a Secondary Caregiver Differentiates Primary Cancer Caregiver Well-being
Authors: Thomson Maria , Wilson-Genderson Maureen , Siminoff Laura A
Published: May 2021

Background
Informal caregivers play a fundamental role in the care of hematological cancer patients, but less is known about how secondary caregivers are involved. We assessed the presence or absence of a secondary caregiver, the types of caregiving activities performed by primary and secondary caregivers and examined whether the presence of a secondary caregiver was associated with primary caregiver characteristics and wellbeing over time.
Methods
A case series of hematological cancer patient-caregiver dyads (n = 171) were recruited from oncology clinics in Virginia and Pennsylvania and followed for 2 years. Multi-level models were developed to examine the associations between presence of a secondary caregiver and the primary caregivers’ well-being.
Results
Most (64.9%) primary caregivers reported having secondary caregivers. Multilevel models showed primary caregivers without help had higher baseline mental and physical health, but experienced deteriorating physical health overtime, compared to supported primary caregivers. Supported primary caregivers reported improvements in mental health over time that was associated with improvements in physical health.
Conclusions
Primary caregivers in good physical and mental health at the beginning of their caregiving journey but who have the least assistance from others may be at greatest risk for detrimental physical health effects long term. Attention to the arrangement of caregiving roles (i.e., who provides what care) overtime is needed to ensure that caregivers remain healthy and well supported.
Mitochondrial bioenergetics and redox dysfunction in nephrotoxicity induced by pyrethroid permethrin are ameliorated by flavonoid-rich fraction
Authors: Aoiadni Nissaf , Jd Hajer , Feki Abdelfattah El , Fetoui Hamadi , Koubaa Fatma Ghorbel
Published: May 2021

Recent studies suggest that mitochondrial bioenergetics and oxidative status perturbations may be common mechanisms involved in the progression of renal damage. The present study aimed to evaluate in vitro the potential anti-inflammatory using membrane stabilization and protein denaturation inhibition assays and in vivo protective effect of flavonoid- rich fraction from Fumaria officinalis (EAF) against permethrin (PER) induced nephrotoxicity in male rat. Animals were allocated into four groups: control; EAF (200 mg/Kg BW); PER (34.05 mg/Kg BW); and PER (34.05 mg/Kg BW) + EAF (200 mg/Kg BW) for 7 days. Our results suggest that EAF inhibited significantly protein denaturation and restored membrane stabilization. In vivo , permethrin-treated rats caused a substantial reduction of body weight gain and plasma calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and vitamin C levels as well as an increase of absolute and relative kidney weights and plasma lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and kidney and mitochondria thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP) and protein carbonyl (PCO) levels. PER also caused renal and mitochondrial enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant perturbation as well as mitochondrial NADH-ubiquinone reductase (complex I), ubiquinol cytochrome c reductase (complex III) and cytochrome c oxidase (complex IV) activities reduction associated with renal histopathological alterations. However, co-administration of EAF to the PER group restored oxidative status and mitochondrial bioenergetics. We suggest that EAF may be considered as a future therapeutic anti-inflammatory and may be used singly or as a co-therapeutic in the treatment of diseases associated with mitochondrial oxidative stress.
The effect of Alpha-lipoic acid in glyphosate treated granulosa cells on the human folliculogenesis genes
Authors: Kafshgiri Sakineh Kaboli , Attaranzadeh Armin , Ghasemi Fahimeh , miri-moghaddam Ebrahim
Published: May 2021

Pesticides have a wide range of infertility in female reproductive. GLP is the most common herbicide used worldwide. The present study tended to evaluate the effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on expression of folliculogenesis genes in human granulosa cells (GCs) treated with glyphosate. In this study, GC samples were taken from infertile male patients who had tubal factors and received ICSI or IVF treatment for the first time. The medium used to culture cells was DMEM-F12 containing FBS 10%, penicillin 1%, and streptomycin 1%. The cells were treated with glyphosate (GLP) (250 µg/ml), ALA (50 µg/ml), and their mixture (250 GLP + 50 ALA) for 24 hr. The FoxO1, NOX4, Vnn1, and STAR gene expression in GCs was determined by real-time PCR. Exposure to GLP decreased gene expression Vnn1 and STAR in the GCs, while in comparison to control group, FOXO1 and NOX4 expression insignificantly increased. Further, ALA treatment decreased FOXO1, NOX4, in the GCs, and increased VNN1 and STAR gene expression. Transcriptional expression of FoxO1, NOX4 and STAR in GCs also decreased in their combinations (GLY + ALA). At the same time, the level of Vnn1 mRNA in GCs was increased. The findings showed that exposure to GLP alters the morphological structure of GCs and the expression of follicogenic genes, leading to dysfunction of the reproductive system. Moreover, the results showed that cell characteristics were preserved efficiently in human GCs exposed to ALA as an antioxidant.
Lipin1 Alleviates Autophagy Disorder in Sciatic Nerve and Improves Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Wang Meijian , Xie Min , Yu Shuyan , Shang Pan , Zhang Cong , Han Xiaolin , Fan Cuiqin , Chen Li , Zhuang Xianghua , Chen Shihong
Published: May 2021

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a chronic complication of diabetes, and its exact pathogenesis remains unclear. Autophagy plays an important role in neurodegenerative diseases, ischemia–reperfusion injury of nerve tissues, and nerve tissue injury repair. Lipin1 is a phosphatidic acid phosphatase enzyme that converts phosphatidic acid (PA) into diacylglycerol (DAG), a precursor of triacylglycerol and phospholipids which plays an important role in maintaining normal peripheral nerve conduction function. Here, we show that induction of DPN rat model via STZ injection could reduce Lipin1 expression, prevent DAG synthesis, and results in autophagic hyperactivity. Interestingly, these effects increase the apoptosis of Schwann cells and lead to demyelination in sciatic nerve in DPN rats. More importantly, upregulation of lipin1 in the DPN rats ameliorated autophagy disorders and pathological changes of the sciatic nerve, which associated with the increase of the motor nerve conductive velocity (MNCV) in DPN rats. In contrast, lipin1 downregulation exacerbates neuronal abnormalities and facilitates the genesis of DPN phenotypes in rats. In addition, overexpression of lipin1 in RSC96 cells also significantly decreased the autophagic hyperactivity and apoptosis induced by hyperglycemia. These results suggest that lipin1 may exert neuroprotection within the sciatic nerve anomalies and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of DPN.
Interrelationship of Indoor particulate matter and Respiratory dust deposition of women in the residence of Dhanbad City, India
Authors: KUMAR SHRAVAN , Jain Manish Kumar
Published: May 2021

Women spend relatively more time in indoor conditions in developing countries. Exposure to various indoor air pollutants leads them to higher health risks according to Household air quality in which they reside. Particulate matter (PM) exposure with their exposure duration inside the household plays a significant role in women's Respiratory problems. We measured size segregated particulate matter concentrations in 63 residences at different locations. Respiratory dust depositions (RDDs) for 118 women in their different respiratory regions like head-airway (HD), tracheobronchial (TB), and alveolar (AL) region for the three PM size fractions (PM10, PM2.5 & PM1) were investigated. For different positions like Light exercise and the Sitting condition, RDD values found for AL region was 0.091 µgmin− 1 (SD: 0.067, 0.012–0.408) and 0.028 µgmin− 1 (SD: 0.021, 0.003–0.126) for PM10, 0.325 µgmin− 1 (SD: 0.254, 0.053–1.521) and 0.183 µgmin− 1 (SD: 0.143, 0.031–0.857) for PM2.5, 0.257 µgmin− 1 (SD: 0.197, 0.043–1.04) and 0.057 µgmin− 1 (SD: 0.044, 0.009–0.233) respectively for PM1 to females. RDDs values in the AL region significantly increases as PM10 (11%), PM2.5 (68%), and PM1 (21%), confirm that for women, the AL region is the most prominent affected zone by fine particles (PM2.5).
The inducing of caspase and bcl-2 pathway with royal jelly decreases the muscle tissue damage exposed with fluoride in rats
Authors: Aslan Abdullah , Can Muhammed Ismail , Gok Ozlem , Beyaz Seda , Parlak Gozde , Ozercan Ibrahim Hanifi
Published: May 2021

In this study, 42 Wistar albino female rats (n = 42, 8 weeks old) were used. Rats were divided into 6 groups and 7 rats included each group. Groups: (i) Control Group: Standard diet; (ii) RJ (royal jelly) Group: Standard diet + royal jelly; (iii) F50 Group: Standard diet + 50 mg/kg fluoride; (iv): F100 Group: Standard diet + 100 mg/kg fluoride; (v) F50 + RJ Group: Standard diet + 50 mg/kg fluoride + royal jelly; (iv): F100 + RJ Group: Standard diet + 100 mg/kg fluoride + royal jelly. After the 8-week study period, the rats were decapitated and their muscle tissues were removed. Expression levels of Caspase-3, Caspase-6, Bax, Tnf-α, IL1-α and Bcl-2 proteins in muscle tissue were determined by Western Blotting method. Histopathological analyzes were also performed on the muscle tissue. MDA, GSH, and CAT analyzes were determined by spectrophotometric analysis. According to our findings, Bcl-2, Tnf-α and IL1-α protein expression were increased in damage groups compared to control and royal jelly groups, Caspase-3, Caspase-6 and Bax protein expression levels decreased in damage groups. There was an increase in MDA level in damage groups compared to the control and royal jelly groups, CAT and GSH levels decreased in damage groups. According to histopathological analysis results, edema and inflammatory cell formations were found in the injury groups, a tendency to decrease in these injuries was observed in the treatment groups. Based on these results, we can say that royal jelly has protective effects against fluoride damage.
Adsorption of estrone, 17β-estradiol, and 17α-ethinylestradiol from water onto modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes, carbon cryogel, and carbonized hydrothermal carbon
Authors: Prokic Danijela , Vukčević Marija , Mitrović Angelina , Maletić Marina , Kalijadis Ana , Častvan Ivona Janković , Đurkić Tatjana
Published: May 2021

Carbon materials of different structural and textural properties (multi-walled carbon nanotubes, carbon cryogel, and carbonized hydrothermal carbon) were used as adsorbents for the removal of estrone, 17β-estradiol, and 17α-ethinylestradiol from aqueous solutions. Chemical modification and/or activation were applied to alter surface characteristics and to increase the adsorption and desorption efficiency of carbon materials. Surfaces of treated and untreated carbon materials were characterized through the examination of the textural properties, the nature of surface functional groups, and surface acidity. Although specific surface area and content of surface functional groups did not have a dominant influence on the adsorption process, it was found that a high ratio of surface mesoporosity affected the adsorption process most prominently by increasing adsorption capacity and the rate of the adsorption process. High values of adsorption efficiency (88–100 %) and maximum adsorption capacities (29.45–194.7 mg/g) imply that examined materials, especially mesoporous carbon cryogel and multi-walled carbon nanotubes, can be used as powerful adsorbents for relatively fast removal of estrogen hormones from water.
A case report of a ectopic parathyroid adenoma and literature review
Authors: Liu Xue , Wang lin Hui
Published: May 2021

Background

Giant ectopic mediastinal parathyroid adenoma with cystic degeneration and intratumoral hemorrhage is extremely rare, with low morbidity and a high misdiagnosis rate, and requires precise positioning and surgical resection. Case presentation: A 41-year-old woman presented with a sore throat for 3 days and hoarse voice for 1 day. The following chest computed tomography (CT) showed a large fusiform high-density mass in the posterior tracheal space (maximum cross-section of 34 x 25 mm). ultrasonography of the neck showed a low-echo solid mass. This patient had undergone 2 puncture treatments and 1 surgical treatment from the discovery of the lesion to the diagnosis of the cause over the span of more than a month. Subsequently, the final pathology was definitely diagnosed as parathyroid adenoma with cystic lesions. Six months after the operation, the patient did not relapse.
Conclusions

This case reported a rare and huge ectopic mediastinal parathyroid adenoma that was misdiagnosed as mediastinal tumor hemorrhage at an early stage. For ectopic mediastinal parathyroid adenomas, surgery is the preferred treatment option. Warn us that we should expand the scope of disease thinking for mediastinal tumors.
An Emerging Chemical Fumigant: Two-Sided Effects of Dazomet on Soil Microbial Environment and Plant Response
Authors: Chen Ran , Jiang Weitao , Xu Shaozhuo , Fan Hai , Chen Xuesen , Shen Xiang , Yin Chengmiao , mao zhiquan
Published: May 2021

Methyl bromide has been banned worldwide because it causes damage to the ozone layer and the environment. To find a substitute for methyl bromide, the relationships among fumigation, plant growth, and the microbial community in replant soil require further study. We performed pot and field experiments to investigate the effects of dazomet fumigation on soil properties and plant performance. Changes in soil microbial community structure and diversity were assessed using high-throughput sequencing, and plant physiological performance and soil physicochemical properties were also measured. Dazomet fumigation enhanced photosynthesis and promoted plant growth in replant soil; it altered soil physical and chemical properties and reduced soil enzyme activities, although these parameters gradually recovered over time. After dazomet fumigation, the dominant soil phyla changed, microbial diversity decreased significantly, the relative abundance of biocontrol bacteria such as Mortierella increased, and the relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria such as Fusarium decreased. Over the course of the experiment, the soil microbial flora changed dynamically, and soil enzyme activities and other physical and chemical properties also recovered to a certain extent. This result suggested that the effect of dazomet on soil microorganisms was temporary. However, fumigation also led to an increase in some resistant pathogens, such as Trichosporon, that affect soil function and health. Therefore, it is necessary to consider potential negative impacts of dazomet on the soil environment and to perform active environmental risk management in China.
The Mother with Smeary-Death Life: The Lived Experience of Near Miss Mothers
Authors: Abdollahpour Sedigheh , Heydari Abbas , Ebrahimipour Hosein , Faridhoseini Farhad , Khadivzadeh Talat
Published: May 2021

Background

A Near Miss Mother (NMM) who survives life-threatening conditions, experiences intense physical, emotional, and psychological consequences following the maternal near-miss (MNM) events. The aim of this study was therefore to explore indepth understanding meaning of NMM everyday lived experiences on the social and cultural background of Iran.
Methods

This qualitative study utilized a hermeneutic phenomenology procedure. The study was conducted in hospitals affiliated with the Educational, Research and Treatment Centerwhich usually handle the NMMs. The sampling was purposeful with a maximum variation of eleven NMMs. Datawere collected using unstructured face-to-face interviews, and thetranscribed data were analyzed using Diekelmann, Allen, and Tanner’s seven-stage thematic analysis approach.
Results

"The mother with smeary-death life" was the central emerged theme, and three extracted sub-themes included: "Distorted psyche on a journey to death", "physical destruction due to an ominous event ", and the "vicissitudinous life of the back-to-life mother". These sub-themes, in turn, involved 12 sub-themes that emerged from 38 common meanings and 1200 codes.
Conclusions

Findings demonstrate that NMMs need a supportive program that includes additional follow-up visits, psychological support from the time of hospitalization until long-time after discharge, alleviation of social, sexual, and financial worries to return them to the normal life, as well as psychosocial rehabilitation to increase their life quality. Furthermore, post-discharge care in NMMs should be done actively and directly at their homes.
Chinese Fetal Biometry: Establishment of a Formula for Calculating Gestational Age based on Crown–Rump Length Measurements
Authors: Zhang Yixiu , Meng Hua , Jiang Yuxin , Xu Zhonghui , Ouyang Yunshu , Li Shengli , Chen Qian , Wu Qingqing , Li Rui , Ru Tong , Cai Ailu , Chen Xinlin , Yang Taizhu , Chen Ping , Xie Hongning , Lu Hong , Dai Qing , Dong Fen , Yang Meng , Yang Xiao , Lu Jia , Tian Jiawei , Sun Kun , Li Hui
Published: May 2021

Background: To develop an ultrasonographic dating formula for predicting gestational age (GA) based on fetal crown–rump length (CRL) in a Chinese population, evaluate its systematic prediction error and compare it with existing formulae.Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study of spontaneously conceived singleton pregnancies among women with a regular menstrual cycle in the preceding year. Ultrasound examinations were performed at 11–14 weeks according to the date of the last menstrual cycle. The CRL was measured three times for each fetus, and the mean was used to derive the best-fit fractional polynomial regression model for estimation of GA in relation to CRL. For each fetus, the GA was compared with the GA calculated using six established dating formulae based on CRL measurements. The means of the differences between estimated and menstrual age were calculated for each formula. All the women were followed up routinely until the birth of the fetus. Results: Of the 4710 subjects recruited, the mean and standard deviation values of CRL changed linearly with GA. The corresponding regression equation and its correlation coefficient (R2) was GA = 59.361513 + 0.461425 ´ CRL (R2 = 0.8028). The mean difference between estimated and menstrual age was 0.22 days (95% confidence interval 0.05–0.21), lower than that of the six existing CRL dating formulae.Conclusions: We have derived a CRL-based dating formula suitable for naturally conceived pregnancies for GA between 11+0 and 13+6 weeks. The formula has no systematic prediction error, comparing favorably with the existing published dating formulae.
Effects of polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, high-density polyethylene, and polystyrene microplastic on Nelumbo nucifera (Lotus) in water and sediment
Authors: Esterhuizen Maranda , Kim Youngjun
Published: May 2021

Plastic waste is recognised as hazardous, with the risk increasing as the polymers break down in nature to secondary microplastics or even nanoplastics. The number of studies reporting on the prevalence of microplastic in every perceivable niche and bioavailable to biota is dramatically increasing. Knowledge of the ecotoxicology of microplastic is advancing as well; however, information regarding plants, specifically aquatic macrophytes, is still lacking. The present study aimed to gain more information on the ecotoxicological effects of six different polymer types as 4 mm microplastic on the morphology (germination and growth) and the physiology (catalase and glutathione S-transferase activity) of the rooted aquatic macrophyte, Nelumbo nucifera. The role of sediment was also considered by conducting all exposure both in a sediment-containing and sediment-free exposure system. Polyvinyl chloride and polyurethane exposures caused the highest inhibition of germination and growth compared to the control. However, the presence of sediment significantly decreased the adverse effects. Catalase activity was increased with exposure to polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, and polystyrene, both in the presence and absence of sediment but more so in the sediment-free system. Glutathione S-transferase activity was significantly increased with exposure to polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyethylene terephthalate in the sediment-free system and exposure to polyethylene terephthalate and polyurethane in the absence of sediment. There was no clear correlation between the morphological and physiological effects observed. Further studies are required to understand the underlying toxicity mechanism of microplastics.
Hip, Vertebral, and Wrist Fracture Risks and Schizophrenia: A Nationwide Longitudinal Study
Authors: Chu Yu-Wen , Chen Wen-Pin , Yang Albert C. , Tsai Shih-Jen , Hu Li-Yu , Lee Shyh-Chyang , Lee Yao-Tung , Shen Cheng-Che
Published: May 2021

Background: Fractures are a great health issue associated with morbidity, quality of life, life span, and health care expenditure. Fractures are correlated with cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cerebrovascular disease, and some psychiatric disorders. However, representative national data are few, and longitudinal cohort studies on the association between schizophrenia and the subsequent fracture risk are scant. We designed a nationwide population-based cohort study to investigate the association of schizophrenia with hip, vertebral, and wrist fractures over a 10-year follow-up. Methods: Data of patients with schizophrenia (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code 295) and matched over January 2000–December 2009) were extracted from Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. A Cox proportional-hazards regression model was constructed to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for fractures between the schizophrenia and control cohorts. Results: Of 2,028 people with schizophrenia (mean age: 36.3 years, 49.4% female), 89 (4.4%) reported newly diagnosed fractures—significantly higher than the proportion in the control population (257, 3.2%; P = 0.007). The incidences of hip (1.2%, P = 0.009) and vertebral (2.6%, P = 0.011) fractures were significantly higher in the schizophrenia cohort than in the control cohort. In Cox regression analysis, hip (adjusted HR: 1.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08–2.93) and vertebral (adjusted HR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.01–1.95) fracture risks were significantly higher in patients with schizophrenia. Furthermore, a sex-based subgroup analysis revealed that the risk of hip fracture remained significantly higher in female patients with schizophrenia (HR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.32–5.44) than in female controls. On the other hand, there was no significant interaction between effects of sex and schizophrenia on the risk of fractures. Conclusions: Over a 10-year follow-up, hip and vertebral fracture risks were higher in the people with schizophrenia than in the controls. The risk of fractures in patients with schizophrenia does not differ between female and male.
DOA Estimation Based on Sum-Difference Coarray with Virtual Array Interpolation Concept
Authors: Ding Yarong , Ren Shiwei , Wang Weijiang , Xue Chengbo
Published: May 2021

The sum-difference coarray is the union of difference coarray and the sum coarray, which is capable to obtain a higher number of degrees of freedom (DOF) than the difference coarray. However, this method fails to use all information provided by the coprime array because of the existence of holes. In this paper, we introduce the virtual array interpolation into the sum-difference coarray domain. After interpolating the virtual array, we estimate the DOA by reconstructing the covariance matrix to resolve an atomic norm minimization problem in a gridless way. The proposed method is gridless and can effectively utilize the DOF of a larger virtual array. Numerical simulation results verify the effectiveness and the superior performance of the proposed algorithm.
New update on molecular diversity of clinical Staphylococcus aureus isolates in Iran: Antimicrobial resistance, adhesion and virulence factors, biofilm formation and SCCmec typing
Authors: Tabandeh Mahtab , Kaboosi Hami , Armaki Mojtaba Taghizadeh , Pournajaf Abazar , Ghadikolaii Fatemeh Peyravii
Published: May 2021

Staphylococcus. aureus is often considered as a potential pathogen and resistant to a wide range of antibiotics. The pathogenicity of this bacterium is due to the presence of multiple virulence factors and ability to form biofilm. SCCmec types I, II and III are mainly attributed to HA-MRSA, while SCCmec types IV and V have usually been reported in CA-MRSA infections. In this study, we performed a cross-sectional study in order to determine the antimicrobial resistance, adhesion and virulence factors, biofilm formation and SCCmec typing of clinical S. aureus isolates in Iran. S. aureus isolate was identified using microbiological standard methods and antibiotic susceptibility test was performed as described by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Inducible resistance phenotype and biofilm formation were determined using D-test and tissue culture plate methods, respectively. Multiplex-PCRs were performed to detect adhesion and virulence factors, antibiotic resistance genes, biofilm formation and SCCmec typing by specific primers. Among 143 clinical samples, 67.8% were identified as MRSA. All isolates were susceptible to vancomycin. The prevalence of cMLSB, iMLSB and MS phenotypes were 61.1%, 22.2% and 14.8%, respectively. The TCP method revealed that 71.3% of isolates were able to form biofilm. The predominant virulence and inducible resistance genes in both MRSA and MSSA isolates were related to sea and ermC respectively. SCCmec type III was the predominant type. Data show the high prevalence rates of virulence elements among S. aureus isolates, especially MRSA strains. This result might be attributed to antibiotic pressure, facilitating clonal selection.
Neurovascular Unit Alterations In The Growth Restricted Newborn Are Improved Following Ibuprofen Treatment
Authors: Chand Kirat K. , Miller Stephanie M. , Cowin Gary J. , Mohanty Lipsa , Pienaar Jany , Colditz Paul B. , Bjorkman Stella Tracey , Wixey Julie A.
Published: May 2021

The developing brain is particularly vulnerable to fetal growth restriction (FGR) and abnormal neurodevelopment is common in the FGR infant ranging from behavioural and learning disorders through to cerebral palsy. No treatment exists to protect the FGR newborn brain. Recent evidence suggests inflammation may play a key role in the mechanism responsible for the progression of brain impairment in the FGR newborn, including disruption to the neurovascular unit (NVU). We explored whether ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory drug, could reduce NVU disruption and brain impairment in the FGR newborn. Using a preclinical FGR piglet model, ibuprofen was administered for three days from birth. FGR brains demonstrated an inflammatory state, with changes to glial morphology (astrocytes and microglia), and blood brain barrier disruption, assessed by IgG and albumin leakage into the brain parenchyma and a decrease in blood vessel density. Loss of interaction between astrocytic end-feet and blood vessels was evident where plasma protein leakage was present, suggestive of structural deficits to the NVU. A significant increase in peripheral infiltrates were also evident in the parenchyma of FGR piglet brains. Ibuprofen treatment reduced the pro-inflammatory response in FGR piglets, reducing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and number of activated microglia and astrocytes associated with blood vessels. Ibuprofen also attenuated plasma protein leakage, regained astrocytic end-feet interaction around vessels, and decreased T-cell infiltration into the FGR brain. These findings suggest postnatal administration of ibuprofen modulates the inflammatory state, allowing for stronger interaction between vasculature and astrocytic end-feet to restore NVU integrity. These changes to the FGR brain microenvironment may be key to neuroprotection.
Lessons To Be Learned: Identifying High-Risk Medication and Circumstances In Patients At Risk For Suicidal Self-Poisoning
Authors: Geith Stefanie , Didden Christiane , Rabe Christian , Zellner Tobias , Ott Armin , Eyer Florian
Published: May 2021

BackgroundAlthough the total number of suicides decreased since the beginning of the 80s, the number of suicide-related behaviors using self-intoxication increased. Therefore, research on the characteristics of individuals committing self-intoxication becomes of growing importance for risk assessments and the development of preventive measures. MethodsIn this prospective, observational, monocentric cohort study, all incoming calls at our Poisons Control Centre reporting suicide-related behavior through self-intoxication, were analyzed via a standardized questionnaire over 12 months. Both univariate and bivariate analyses were performed.Results1238 cases of deliberate intoxication were included in the study. The majority of cases occurred in the age group between 18 and 44 (n=607/49%), two-thirds were female (n=817/66%). The main substances used were antidepressants (n=420/34%), peripheral analgesics (n=322/26%) and neuroleptics (n=282/23%). The majority of patients ingested substances from their prescribed medication (n=640/82%) with the highest proportion in the eldest (n=72/113; 91%, p<0.001). Addiction was reported for the minority of patients (n=175/23%). For 704 cases (57%), a psychiatric diagnosis was documented. Factors associated with recurrent suicide-related behaviors were: i) an underlying psychiatric diagnosis (OR=6.2; 95% CI 3.8-10.4); ii) addiction problems (OR=2.4; 95% CI 1.5-3.8); iii) ingestion of neuroleptics (OR=2.1, 95%-CI 1.4-3.0) or antidepressants (OR=1.6; 95% CI 1.2-2.3).ConclusionThis study might contribute to identifying individuals with an increased risk of suicide-related behaviors and to developing preventive strategies for future suicide attempt(s).
Potential Effect of Pomegranate Peels Extract (Punica Granatum.) against Covid-19 Virus .
Authors: mosa Ashraf fawzy , Mohamed Mostafa abo Elhoda
Published: May 2021

Background: Covid-19 Virus infection poses significant global health challenges and considered a global epidemic sweeping all countries of the world Which prompted scientists around the world to search for a quick or safe treatment to preserve people's lives .So far, options for controlling and treating the disease have not been revealed. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of pomegranate peels extract against the Covid-19 virus in the laboratory. Methods: In this research, tow methods of extraction are carried out ethyl alcohol and distal water extract of pomegranate peels . activity of the extract assessed using 50% Tissue Culture Infectious Doses (TCID50) method in Vero E6 cells. Results: Pomegranate peels extract had the highest inhibitory effect against Covid -19 virus with IC50 value of 0.125, 0.0625 and 0.031256 μl in Vero E6 cells. Conclusion: Based on our results, the aqueous extract of pomegranate peels can inhibit Covid-19 virus replication in vitro.
Feasibility and Stability of a Long Term “Awake” Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Model in Large Animal
Authors: Qi Jiachen , Gao Sizhe , Liu Gang , Yan Shujie , Zhang Min , Yan Weidong , Zhang Qiaoni , Teng Yuan , Wang Jian , Zhou Chun , Wang Qian , Ji Bingyang
Published: May 2021

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is rapidly becoming a mainstream technology for lung or heart/lung support especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Awake ECMO”is frequently used to indicate an alternative approach of using ECMO without invasive mechanical ventilation, and it has the unique advantages of application. In this study, we explored the feasibility and stability of the establishment method and management strategy of long-term awake ECMO model in healthy sheep. As the sheep are healthy, according to the histopathological analysis , we explored the effect of ECMO circuit itself on organs and tissues. As a preclinical study in large animals, our study aims to provide clues for further research on application expansion, management strategy optimization, pathophysiology exploration, equipment development and subsequent establishment of the disease animal model.Methods: Ten healthy sheep were treated with awake veno-arterial (V-A) or veno-venous (V-V) ECMO for 7 days. They were transferred into the monitoring cages after operation and were ambulatory after anesthesia recovery. ECMO configurations, hemodynamic and hematologic parameters were measured every day. Necropsy was conducted at the endpoint of the experiment to visualize the cannula position in vivo and to examine cannulation related injury and thrombus formation in blood vessels and major organs. Main organs and blood vessels were harvested for pathological investigation.Results: All sheep survived to the end of the experiment (the 7th day). In the whole process of the experiment, the vital signs of which were stable, and no serious bleeding and coagulation events occurred. Hemoglobin concentration and platelet count were in normal reference range, plasma free hemoglobin concentration was maintained at a low level. ECMO flow was stable, and oxygenation performance of oxygenator was satisfied. There was no major adverse pathological injury occurred.Conclusions: Long term awake extracorporeal membrane oxygenation model in large animal is feasible and stable. Perioperative management is the key to the success of this model. As a basic research, it can also provide an alternative strategy for mechanical circulatory support in patients with awake ECMO indications.
An Ultra-thin Multiband Terahertz Metamaterial Absorber and Sensing Applications
Authors: Bai Jinjun , Shen Wei , Wang Shasha , Ge Meilan , Chen Tingting , Shen Pengyan , Chang Shengjiang
Published: May 2021

We propose an ultra-thin multiband terahertz metamaterial absorber, whose thickness is only 3.8μm. Simulation results show that we can get four narrow absorption peaks with near-perfect absorption in the 4.5 THz-6.0 Thz frequency range. The resonance absorption mechanism is interpreted by the electromagnetic field energy distributions at resonance frequency. Moreover, we also analyze the sensing performances of the absorber in the refractive index and the thickness of the analyte. The refractive index and thickness sensitivities of the sensor are 0.471THz/RIU, 36.594THz/RIU and the FOMs are 8.887RIU -1 , 938.308RIU -1 , respectively. The absorber has potential applications in photodetector, multi-spectral imaging and biosensors.
Habitat environmental factors and gender influence intestinal microbial diversity of the short-faced moles (Scaptochirus moschata)
Authors: Chen Lei , Xu Di , Zhu Jing , Wang Shen , Liu Mi , Sun Mengyao , Wang Geyang , Song Lingyu , Liu Xiaoyu , Xie Tianyu
Published: May 2021

The short-faced moles (Scaptochirus moschata) are unique Chinese mammal that live in burrows for life. They have complex ecological adaptation mechanisms to adapt to perennial underground life. Intestinal microbes play an important role in the ecological adaptation of wild animals. The gut microbiota diversity and its function in short-faced moles’ ecological adaptation is a scientific issue worth exploring. In this study, the Illumina HiSeq sequencing platform was used to sequence the V3-V4 hypervariable regions of the 16S rRNA genes of 22 short-faced moles’ intestinal samples to study the composition and functional structure of their intestinal microbiota. The results showed that in the short-faced moles’ intestine, there are four main phyla, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Bacteroidete. At the family level, Peptostreptococcaceae and Enterobacteriaceae have the highest abundance. At the genus level, Romboutsia is the genus with the highest microbial abundance. According to the KEGG database, the main functions of short-faced mole gut microbes are metabolism, genetic information processing, environmental information processing, and cellular processes. The function of short-faced mole intestinal microbiota is suitable for its long-term burrowing life. No gender difference is found in the composition and function of the short-faced mole intestinal microbiota. There are significant differences in the composition and functional structure of the short-faced mole gut microbiota between samples collected from different habitats. We conferred that this is related to the different environment factors in which they live, especially to the edaphic factors.
Artificial reefs: a double-edged fishery management tool
Authors: Brochier Timothée , Brehmer Patrice , Mbaye Adama , Diop Mamadou , Watanuki Naohiko , Terashima Hiroaki , Kaplan David , Auger Pierre
Published: May 2021

Artificial reefs (ARs) are one of the most popular means of supporting marine ecosystem conservation and coastal fisheries, particularly in developing countries. However, ARs generate complex socio-bio-economic interactions that require careful evaluation. This is particularly the case for ARs outside no-take zones, where fish might be subject to enhanced exploitation due to easier catchability Here, we conducted an interdisciplinary study on how ARs impact fish and fishing yields, combining mathematical and sociological approaches. Both approaches confirmed that fishery yields declined when ARs were exploited as if they were open access areas. This situation typically occurs in areas with weak governance, which is common in developing countries. To avoid these adverse effects we recommend to prioritize the onset of a long-term surveillance system against illegal fishing activities, and to adapt design and location of the ARs based on both and local and academic knowledge, before the deployment of ARs.
Outstanding Improvement of the Advanced Lipoprotein Profile in Subjects with New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus After Achieving Optimal Glycemic Control
Authors: Castelblanco Esmeralda , Hernández Marta , Ortega Emilio , Amigó Nuria , Real Jordi , Miñambres Inka , Lopez Carolina , Lecube Albert , Bermúdez-López Marcelino , Alonso Núria , Julve Josep , Mauricio Didac
Published: May 2021

Background: An altered lipoprotein profile is often hidden in normolipidemic subjects with uncontrolled type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D). Conceivably, its amelioration after glycemic control may be overlooked in controlled T1D subjects. In this regard, we investigated the influence of glycemic optimization on lipoprotein subfraction parameters in normolipidemic new-onset T1D subjects.Methods: Twelve subjects at onset of T1D (5 women and 7 men) were studied. Serum lipid and advanced lipoprotein profiles were determined by routine laboratory methods and 1H-NMR spectroscopy shortly after diabetes diagnosis (baseline), and after achieving optimal glycemic control (HbA1c<7%) at a follow-up of 11.3 to 25.6 weeks.Results: Advanced lipoprotein analysis revealed a significant reduction from baseline in plasma concentrations of triglycerides (TG) and cholesterol (C), and in apolipoprotein (Apo)B-containing lipoproteins of treated subjects (VLDL-TG: -21%, LDL-TG: -36%, IDL-TG: -32%, LDL-TG: -36%, P<0.05; VLDL-C: -46%, IDL-C: -46%, LDL-C: -16%; P<0.05). Additionally, neither VLDL-TG and LDL-TG nor LDL-C of T1D subjects at follow-up differed from those of non-diabetic subjects. Decreased VLDL and LDL lipids were mainly attributed to concomitant reductions in the concentration of medium-sized VLDL (-39%) and medium-sized LDL (34%) and, to a lesser extent, to large-sized LDL (13%), respectively. Notably, proatherogenic IDL characteristics and related surrogates of atherogenicity were resolved upon intensive glycemic control. However, neither the concentration of HDL-P, nor the relative proportion of HDL sizes was influenced by the glucose-lowering therapy.Conclusions: In otherwise normolipidemic T1D subjects according to the conventional lipid profile, the achievement of optimal glycemic control after diabetes onset is associated with normalization of profound derangements in ApoB-containing lipoproteins (VLDL, IDL, and LDL). Whether higher cardiovascular risk in poorly controlled T1D is partially mediated by these proatherogenic lipid alterations should be elucidated by further studies.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Integrated Community Case Management Delivery Models Utilizing Drug Sellers and Community Health Workers for Treatment of Under-Five Febrile Cases of Malaria, Pneumonia, Diarrhea in Rural Uganda.
Authors: Lubogo Patrick , Lukyamuzi John Edward , Kyambadde Deo , Komakech Alex Aboda , Kitutu Freddy Eric , Mulogo Edgar Mugema
Published: May 2021

Background Malaria, pneumonia, and diarrhea continue to be the leading causes of death in children under the age of five in Uganda. To combat the above-mentioned febrile illnesses, integrated community case management (iCCM) delivery models utilizing CHWs or drug sellers have been implemented. The purpose of this study is to compare the cost-effectiveness of delivering iCCM interventions via drug sellers versus community health workers in rural Uganda.MethodologyThis study was a cost-effectiveness analysis to compare the iCCM delivery model utilizing drug sellers against the model using CHWs. The effect measure was the number of appropriately treated U5 children, and data on effectiveness came from a quasi-experimental study in Southwestern Uganda and the inSCALE cross-sectional household survey in eight districts of mid-Western Uganda. The iCCM interventions were costed using the micro-costing (ingredients) approach, with costs expressed in US dollars. Cost and effect data were linked together using a decision tree model and analyzed using the Amua modeling software.ResultsThe costs per 100 treated U5 were US$591.20 and US$298.42 for the iCCM trained-drug seller and iCCM trained-CHW models, respectively, with 30 and 21 appropriately treated children in the iCCM trained-drug seller and iCCM trained-CHW models. When the drug seller arm (intervention) was compared to the CHW arm (control), an incremental effect of 9 per 100 appropriately treated under-five children was observed, as well as an incremental cost of US$292.78 per 100 appropriately treated children, resulting in an ICER of US$33.86 per appropriately treated U5 patient.ConclusionSince both models were cost-effective compared to the do-nothing option, the iCCM trained-drug seller model could complement the iCCM trained-CHW intervention as a strategy to increase access to quality treatment.
Patients’ perspectives on the use of non-pharmacological home remedies in Geneva: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Winkler Neria E. , Sebo Paul , Haller Dagmar M. , Maisonneuve Hubert
Published: May 2021

Background Home remedies are anchored in patients’ everyday life, but their use in Western cultures remains scarcely explored. Our objectives were to investigate primary care patients’ perspectives and use of non-pharmacological home remedies in Geneva (Switzerland).Methods In spring 2020, we conducted a cross-sectional survey among adult primary care patients in randomly selected general practices (N = 15). Patients were recruited in the waiting rooms and asked to complete a questionnaire about their sociodemographic characteristics, their home remedy use, and their expectations and reasons for using (or not using) home remedies. We employed descriptive statistics to summarise the data and logistic regression adjusted for clustering within practices to explore associations between home remedy use and participants’ sociodemographic characteristics.Results 314 of 390 patients agreed to participate in the study (participation rate 80.5%). Home remedies were used by 64.4% of patients. The main reasons given were for preventive purposes (55.3%), self-care (41.0%), as an alternative to conventional medicine (40.5%) and to avoid or delay a medical consultation (38.5%). One-third of patients considered that it was the GP’s role to spontaneously inform them about home remedies (36.4%), another third considered that it was the GP’s role to inform them, but only upon specific request (32.3%), and the last third of patients declared that it was not the GP’s role to provide information about home remedies (30.3%). Patients living in an urban zone (adjusted OR 2.1; 95%CI 1.0-4.4; p 0.05) and those with a tertiary education background (adjusted OR 1.9; 95%CI 1.0-3.6; p 0.05) believed that it was their GP’s role to inform them about home remedies.Conclusions Home remedies are used by a majority of primary care patients in Geneva. For a comprehensive and safe health-care management in the context of patient-oriented medicine, more evidence-based research on efficacy and safety of home remedies as well as their place in primary care consultation is required.