bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between early parental deprivation and cellular immune function among adults in rural Fujian, China
Authors: Yazawa Aki , Inoue Yosuke , Cai Guoxi , Tu Raoping , Huang Meng , He Fei , Chen Jie , Yamamoto Taro , Watanabe Chiho
Published: June 2019

This study investigated the role of childhood parental deprivation in the association between quality of life (QOL) and the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) antibody titer, a marker of cellular immune functioning, using data from 734 adults living in seven communities in rural Fujian, China. Parental deprivation was defined if either of their parents had died, divorced, or left them for migratory work for more than 1 year before they turned (a) 16 years of age (childhood and adolescence), or (b) 3 years of age (early childhood). A mixed‐effects regression analysis with a random effects model revealed that parental deprivation during early childhood was positively associated with the EBV antibody titer (coefficient = 0.33, p = 0.007), whereas parental deprivation during the first 16 years was not. Further analysis incorporating an interaction term between QOL and parental deprivation revealed a significant interaction between QOL and parental deprivation during early childhood; a significant association between QOL and the EBV antibody titer was found only among those who reported parental deprivation during early childhood. This study suggests that parental deprivation during the period of immune system development may be linked with physiological responses to stressors later in life.
Association between insulin resistance and haematological parameters: A cohort study from adolescence to adulthood
Authors: Ferreira Daniela , Severo Milton , Araújo Joana , Barros Henrique , Guimarães João T. , Ramos Elisabete
Published: June 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to quantify the relationship between insulin resistance and haematological parameters from adolescence to adulthood.

Methods

Participants from the EPITeen cohort were evaluated at 13, 17, and 21 years, through standardized procedures. A fasting blood sample was obtained, and insulin resistance was evaluated by the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA‐IR). The cross‐sectional association between HOMA‐IR and haematological parameters at 21 years was quantified in 1671 participants by multivariate linear regression coefficients (β) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). For the longitudinal analysis (n = 496), trajectories of insulin and glucose were estimated using model‐based clustering, and haematological parameters were compared according to trajectories using ANOVA.

Results

At 21 years, after adjustment for BMI, positive associations (β [95%CI]) were found between HOMA‐IR and red blood count (0.05 [0.03;0.07] in females; 0.02 [0.00;0.04] in males); and haematocrit (0.29 [0.12;0.46] in females; 0.21 [0.04,0.38] in males). In females, HOMA‐IR was inversely associated with packed cell volume (PCV) (−0.35 [−0.66;−0.05]) and iron levels (−3.98 [−6.94,−1.03]) but positively associated with white blood cells (0.31 [0.19;0.43]) and platelets (7.66 [3.93;11.39]). In males, a higher HOMA‐IR was significantly associated with higher haemoglobin (0.09 [0.03;0.16]). Regarding the longitudinal analysis, similar trends were found, but statistical significance was not reached.

Conclusions

Both longitudinal and cross‐sectional analyses support the hypothesis that insulin resistance is associated with increased red blood cells count and haematocrit in young adults, even within normal ranges of insulin and glucose.
Cortical and Commissural Defects Upon HCF‐1 Loss in Nkx2.1‐Derived Embryonic Neurons and Glia
Authors: Minocha Shilpi , Herr Winship
Published: June 2019

Formation of the cerebral cortex and commissures involves a complex developmental process defined by multiple molecular mechanisms governing proliferation of neuronal and glial precursors, neuronal and glial migration, and patterning events. Failure in any of these processes can lead to malformations. Here, we study the role of HCF‐1 in these processes. HCF‐1 is a conserved metazoan transcriptional co‐regulator long implicated in cell proliferation and more recently in human metabolic disorders and mental retardation. Loss of HCF‐1 in a subset of ventral telencephalic Nkx2.1‐positive progenitors leads to reduced numbers of GABAergic interneurons and glia, owing not to decreased proliferation but rather to increased apoptosis before cell migration. The loss of these cells leads to development of severe commissural and cortical defects in early postnatal mouse brains. These defects include mild and severe structural defects of the corpus callosum and anterior commissure, respectively, and increased folding of the cortex resembling polymicrogyria. Hence, in addition to its well‐established role in cell proliferation, HCF‐1 is important for organ development, here the brain.
Plant communities along preferential superficial water flow paths across a floodplain landscape
Authors: Entraigas Ilda , Vercelli Natalia , Fajardo Luisa
Published: June 2019

From a hydrological perspective, is specially necessary to face the challenge of obtaining a complete spatial arrangement of the drainage network on floodplains with extremely flat relief, impermeable soils and exposed to periodic flooding. Focusing on a sector of the Flooding Pampa in Argentina, our aim was to gain a better understanding of the ways in which vegetation along preferential superficial water flow paths across a floodplain landscape differs from the matrix. We selected three sites along these flow paths, spanning a groundwater salinity gradient. Sampling points were located along transects, transversally arranged to surface and groundwater flows direction. Considering that alternating flooding and drought is an intrinsic characteristic of the region, the drainage network shows expansion and contraction cycles in response to variations in water availability. In this dynamics, preferential superficial water flow paths emerge in the floodplain landscape or disappear. The degree of expression of these paths depends on their location on the topographic gradient, because they tend to lose their degree of channelling as the ground relative heights decrease. Although in the first instance the vegetation matrix seems to be relatively homogeneous, the analysis on a detailed scale allows us to distinguish certain heterogeneity in that pattern. Our analysis shows that there is a downstream variation in the spatial distribution of the vegetation following the topographic and groundwater salinity gradients and that the degree of channelling and soil alkalinity determines the type of plant community to be developed in a certain site of the floodplain landscape.
Numerical simulation of boreholes for gas extraction and effective range of gas extraction in soft coal seams
Authors: Wei Pan , Huang Changwen , Li Xuelong , Peng Shoujian , Lu Yanan
Published: June 2019

Gas disasters are a major factor influencing safe production in mines: Gas extraction can reduce the gas content in coal seams, providing a guarantee of safer production. The parameters for gas extraction are the primary factors influencing the effectiveness thereof. Aiming at the creep properties of soft coal, a fluid‐solid coupling mathematical model considering creep properties of coal was established based on dynamic evolution equation for permeability considering the effects of matrix shrinkage and effective stress. Additionally, by utilizing COMSOL Multiphysics software, the gas extractions from a single borehole and multiple boreholes were calculated. Moreover, the parameters for gas extraction were optimized and applied and tested in field conditions. The result showed the reduction in gas pressure around the boreholes was larger than that from a single borehole when conducting gas extraction from multiple boreholes. The borehole spacing when extracting gas in coal seams by drilling multiple boreholes should be more than twice that of the effective drainage radius. The optimal borehole spacing ranged from 3.2 to 4.2 m for gas extraction lasting 180 d. Numerical simulation was carried out to ascertain the distribution of stress on coal around a roadway. The result revealed that the damage radius of the roadway was 11.8 m, and a reasonable hole‐sealing depth was 12 m. On condition that the borehole spacing during gas extraction from multiple boreholes was 4 m, the reasonable pre‐extraction time was 180 days taking the gas pressure being reduced to <0.74 MPa as a critical point. Furthermore, the gas content, the amount of extracted gas, etc, in a working face after the parameters for gas extraction were optimized were measured. The result suggested that the effect of gas extraction after optimizing parameters conformed to industry standards.
Simulation of a multistage fractured horizontal well in a tight oil reservoir using an embedded discrete fracture model
Authors: Zhao Yu‐long , Liu Ling‐fu , Zhang Lie-hui , Zhang Xu‐Yang , Li Bo
Published: June 2019

As an unconventional resource, tight oil reservoirs hold abundant geological reserves and great development potential. However, tight oil reservoirs suffer from high heterogeneity and low permeability. To obtain commercial oil and gas flow, multistage hydraulically fractured horizontal well technology is often adopted. In this paper, an embedded discrete fracture model (EDFM) is adopted to study the fractured reservoir. First, the relationship between the EDFM connection list is studied and its coefficient matrix of the equation system is solved. EDFM connection list is a method to record the connections between the grids. Thereafter, the reasons for the sparsity of the coefficient matrix and the symmetry of the locations of nonzero elements in the matrix are explained, and a simple method to establish and assemble the coefficient matrix is proposed. Using this method, a simulator for tight oil reservoir with EDFM is developed. By comparing the simulation results of the self‐programming simulator with the commercial software SAPHIR, the usefulness of the simulator is verified. Finally, several simulations and sensitivity analysis are performed to determine the key factors affecting production. Modeling studies show the influence of fractures, the horizontal well, and stress sensitivity, providing very useful information for the design of hydraulic fracturing and production development programs.
Pharmacological effects of different ginger juices on the concurrent symptoms in animal models of functional dyspepsia: A comparative study
Authors: Zhong Ling‐yun , Tong Heng‐li , Zhu Jing , Lv Mu
Published: June 2019

Objective

Patients with gastrointestinal disorders commonly suffer from poor treatment outcomes and adverse effects of traditional pharmacological therapy. Herbal medicine is a favorable alternative due to the low risk of side effects. This study was performed to explore the antiemetic effects and the improvement effect on gastrointestinal function of components of three ginger juice excipients.

Methods

The compositions were analyzed by liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer (LC‐MS), especially the gingerols of dried ginger juice (DGJ), fresh ginger juice (FGJ), and fresh ginger boiled juice (FGBJ). Furthermore, the respective gastrointestinal effects on rat models with functional dyspepsia (FD) were compared.

Results

The 6‐keto‐PGF1α levels in the serum of the treated groups were significantly reduced (p < 0.05), as compared with the control group. Compared with the cisplatin group, there was an apparent reduction in kaolin intake for DGJ, FGJ, and FGBJ (p < 0.01; p < 0.01; p < 0.05). The intestinal propulsive rate of the rats in the treated group was significantly higher than that in the control group (p < 0.05). Ginger juices significantly improved gastrointestinal function in rats. Eight common components were found in DGJ, FGJ, and FGBJ, among which 6‐paradol, 10‐gingerol, and 12‐shogaol led to inhibited gastric mucosal damage function effect according to the Pearson correlation analysis. Only 6‐shogaol was found to have a positive correlation with gastrointestinal function effect through Pearson correlation analysis.

Conclusion

Ginger juice should be recommended for the medicinal materials used in the treatment of concurrent symptoms of FD.
Analysis of Host Responses to Hepatitis B and Delta Viral Infections in a Micro‐scalable Hepatic Co‐culture System
Authors: Winer Benjamin Y. , Gaska Jenna M. , Lipkowitz Gabriel , Bram Yaron , Parekh Amit , Parsons Lance , Leach Robert , Jindal Rohit , Cho Cheul H. , Shrirao Anil , Novik Eric , Schwartz Robert E. , Ploss Alexander
Published: June 2019

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major global health problem with 257 million chronically infected individuals worldwide, of whom approximately 20 million are co‐infected with hepatitis delta virus (HDV). Progress toward a better understanding of the complex interplay between these two viruses and the development of novel therapies have been hampered by the scarcity of suitable cell culture models that mimic the natural environment of the liver. Here, we established HBV and HBV/HDV co‐infections and super‐infections in self‐assembling co‐cultured primary human hepatocytes (SACC‐PHHs) for up to 28 days in a 384‐well format and highlight the suitability of this platform for high‐throughput drug testing. We performed RNA sequencing at days 8 and 28 on SACC‐PHHs, either HBV mono‐infected or HBV/HDV co‐infected. Our transcriptomic analysis demonstrates that hepatocytes in SACC‐PHHs maintain a mature hepatic phenotype over time, regardless of infection condition. We confirm that HBV is a stealth virus, as it does not induce a strong innate immune response; rather, oxidative phosphorylation and extracellular matrix–receptor interactions are dysregulated to create an environment that promotes persistence. Notably, HDV co‐infection also did not lead to statistically significant transcriptional changes across multiple donors and replicates. The lack of innate immune activation is not due to SACC‐PHHs being impaired in their ability to induce interferon stimulated genes (ISGs). Rather, polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid exposure activates ISGs, and this stimulation significantly inhibits HBV infection, yet only minimally affects the ability of HDV to infect and persist. Conclusion: These data demonstrate that the SACC‐PHH system is a versatile platform for studying HBV/HDV co‐infections and holds promise for performing chemical library screens and improving our understanding of the host response to such infections.
Comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of International Ovarian Tumor Analysis simple rules and the risk of malignancy index to discriminate between benign and malignant adnexal masses
Authors: Auekitrungrueng Rapeepat , Tinnangwattana Dangcheewan , Tantipalakorn Charuwan , Charoenratana Cholaros , Lerthiranwong Thitikarn , Wanapirak Chanane , Tongsong Theera
Published: June 2019

Objective

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) simple rules and risk of malignancy index (RMI 1/RMI 2) scoring to discriminate between benign and malignant adnexal masses.

Methods

Secondary analysis of a cohort of patients scheduled for surgery for adnexal masses in a tertiary center between April 2010 and March 2018. Ultrasound examinations were performed by general gynecologists within 24 hours prior to surgery to evaluate sonographic features. Demographic data and preoperative CA 125 levels were recorded. IOTA rules and RMI scoring were applied to predict malignancy and prospectively recorded. Final diagnosis was based on pathological or intraoperative diagnosis.

Results

A total of 479 masses met the inclusion criteria and were retrieved from the database: 334 (69.7%) benign and 145 (30.3%) malignant. IOTA rules could be applied to 392 (81.8%) masses and were inconclusive in 87 (18.2%). Sensitivity and specificity of IOTA rules (83.8% and 92.0%, respectively) were significantly higher than RMI 1 (77.2% and 86.8%, respectively) and RMI 2 (82.1% and 82.6%, respectively).

Conclusion

IOTA simple rules had higher diagnostic accuracy compared with RMI to discriminate between benign and malignant adnexal masses; however, nearly 20% of IOTA results were inconclusive and needed expert consultation.
Physicochemical characterization of nanobidentate ferrocene‐based Schiff base ligand and its coordination complexes: Antimicrobial, anticancer, density functional theory, and molecular operating environment studies
Authors: Mahmoud Walaa H. , Mahmoud Nessma F. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: June 2019

A novel bidentate Schiff base ligand (HL, Nanobidentate Ferrocene based Schiff base ligand L (has one replaceable proton H)) was prepared via the condensation of 2‐amino phenol with 2‐acetyl ferrocene. The ligand was characterized using elemental analysis, mass spectrometry, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, 1proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H‐NMR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermal analysis. The corresponding 1:1 metal complexes with some transition‐metal ions were additionally characterized by their elemental analysis, molar conductance, SEM, and thermogravimetric ana1ysis (TGA). The complexes had the general formula [M(L)(Cl)(H2O)3]xCl·nH2O (M = Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II)), (x = 0 for Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II), x = 1 for Cr(III) and Fe(III)), (n = 1 for Cr(III), n = 3 for Mn(II) and Co(II), n = 4 for Fe(III), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II)). Density functional theory calculations on the HL ligand were also carried out in order to clarify molecular structures by the B31YP exchange‐correlation function. The results were subjected to molecular orbital diagram, highest occupied mo1ecu1ar orbital–lowest occupied molecular orbital, and molecular electrostatic potential calculations. The parent Schiff base and its eight metal complexes were assayed against four bacterial species (two Gram‐negative and two‐Gram positive) and four different antifungal species. The HL ligand was docked using molecular operating environment 2008 with crystal structures of oxidoreductase (1CX2), protein phosphatase of the fungus Candida albicans (5JPE), Gram(−) bacteria Escherichia coli (3T88), Gram(+) bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (3Q8U), and an androgen‐independent receptor of prostate cancer (1GS4). In order to assess cytotoxic nature of the prepared HL ligand and its complexes, the compounds were screened against the Michigan cancer foundation (MCF)‐7 breast cancer cell line, and the IC50 values of compounds were calculated.
Thermal isomerization of ruthenium hydride compounds containing asymmetric bidentate pyrrole‐imine ligands
Authors: Lai Hsuan‐Ting , Chen Kun‐Hao , Li Yong‐Jie , Wu Cheng‐Hsien , Hu Ching‐Han , Lin Chia‐Her , Huang Jui‐Hsien
Published: June 2019

A series of ruthenium hydride compounds containing substituted bidentate pyrrole‐imine ligands were synthesized and characterized. Reacting RuHCl(CO)(PPh3)3 with one equivalent of [C4H3NH(2‐CH=NR)] in ethanol in the presence of KOH gave compounds {RuH(CO)(PPh3)2[C4H3N(2‐CH=NR)]} where trans‐Py‐Ru‐H 1, R = CH2CH2C6H9; cis‐Py‐Ru‐H 2, R = Ph‐2‐Me; and cis‐Py‐Ru‐H 3, R = C6H11. Heating trans‐Py‐Ru‐H 1 in toluene at 70°C for 12 hr resulted a thermal conversion of the trans‐Py‐Ru‐H 1 into its cis form, {RuH(CO)(PPh3)2[C4H3N(2‐CH=NCH2CH2C6H9)]} (cis‐Py‐Ru‐H 1) in very high yield. The 1H NMR spectra of trans‐Py‐Ru‐H 1, cis‐Py‐Ru‐H 2, cis‐Py‐Ru‐H 3, and cis‐Py‐Ru‐H 1 all show a typical triplet at ca. δ–11 for the hydride. The trans and cis form indicate the relative positions of pyrrole ring and hydride. The geometries of trans‐Py‐Ru‐H 1, cis‐Py‐Ru‐H 1, and cis‐Py‐Ru‐H 3 are relatively similar showing typical octahedral geometries with two PPh3 fragments arranged in trans positions.
Downregulation of JKAP is correlated with elevated disease risk, advanced disease severity, higher inflammation, and poor survival in sepsis
Authors: Zhao Min , Huang Xing
Published: June 2019

Objective

This study aimed to explore the association of JKAP with sepsis risk and investigate its correlation with disease severity, inflammatory cytokines, and survival in sepsis patients.

Methods

A hundred and one sepsis patients along with 100 healthy controls were enrolled, and their blood serum samples were collected for JKAP and inflammatory cytokines measurement by enzyme‐linked immunoassay. The difference in serum JKAP between sepsis patients and healthy controls was determined. Among sepsis patients, the correlation of JKAP with disease severity, laboratory indexes, inflammatory cytokines, 28‐day mortality, and accumulating survival was analyzed.

Results

JNK pathway–associated phosphatase level was decreased in sepsis patients compared with healthy controls and presented with good value in predicting decreased sepsis risk (AUC = 0.896 [95% CI: 0.851‐0.941]). And its low expression was associated with advanced disease severity (APACHE II score and SOFA score) and systemic inflammation (CRP, PCT, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐17) in sepsis patients. Additionally, JKAP level was decreased in deaths compared with survivors and had good value in distinguishing deaths from survivors (AUC = 0.742 [95% CI: 0.636‐0.849]). Further, Kaplan‐Meier curve analysis disclosed that JKAP high expression predicted more prolonged accumulating survival in sepsis patients.

Conclusion

JNK pathway–associated phosphatase is of good value in predicting lower sepsis risk, and its downregulation correlates with advanced disease severity, higher level of systemic inflammation, and poor survival in sepsis patients.
MiR‐127 attenuates adipogenesis by targeting MAPK4 and HOXC6 in porcine adipocytes
Authors: Gao Yun , Wang Yingqian , Chen Xiaochang , Peng Ying , Chen Fenfen , He Yulin , Pang Weijun , Yang Gongshe , Yu Taiyong
Published: June 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have critical roles during adipogenesis; however, their precise functions are not completely understood. Porcine miRNA expression profiles show that miR‐127 is dramatically downregulated with age in adipose tissue. We aimed to identify the precise functions and mechanisms of miR‐127 in proliferation and adipogenesis. Preadipocytes were cultured under conditions to induce proliferation or differentiation and the effect of miR‐127 overexpression on these processes, and the associated bioinformatically predicted target genes, were assessed using luciferase assays, quantitative real‐time PCR, western blot analysis, and cell staining techniques. miR‐127 increased proliferation by promoting cell cycling, whereas it suppressed differentiation, which was accompanied by reduced lipid accumulation. miR‐127 targeted mitogen‐activated protein kinase 4 and homeobox C6 (HOXC6) to activate preadipocyte proliferation. During differentiation, miR‐127 targeted HOXC6 to attenuate adipogenesis. These findings identify miR‐127 as an inhibitor of porcine adipogenesis, which may inform future strategies to reduce porcine fat deposition and treat human obesity.
Autophagy induces eosinophil extracellular traps formation and allergic airway inflammation in a murine asthma model
Authors: Silveira Josiane Silva , Antunes Géssica Luana , Kaiber Daniela Benvenutti , da Costa Mariana Severo , Ferreira Fernanda Silva , Marques Eduardo Peil , Schmitz Felipe , Gassen Rodrigo Benedetti , Breda Ricardo Vaz , Wyse Angela T. S. , Stein Renato Tetelbom , Pitrez Paulo Márcio , da Cunha Aline Andrea
Published: June 2019

Studies have shown autophagy participation in the immunopathology of inflammatory diseases. However, autophagy role in asthma and in eosinophil extracellular traps (EETs) release is poorly understood. Here, we attempted to investigate the autophagy involvement in EETs release and in lung inflammation in an experimental asthma model. Mice were sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA), followed by OVA challenge. Before the challenge with OVA, mice were treated with an autophagy inhibitor, 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA). We showed that 3‐MA treatment decreases the number of eosinophils, eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) activity, goblet cells hyperplasia, proinflammatory cytokines, and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) p65 immunocontent in the lung. Moreover, 3‐MA was able to improve oxidative stress, mitochondrial energy metabolism, and Na+, K+‐ATPase activity. We demonstrated that treatment with autophagy inhibitor 3‐MA reduced EETs formation in the airway. On the basis of our results, 3‐MA treatment can be an interesting alternative for reducing lung inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and EETs formation in asthma.
Taxonomic study of Triblemma by using light and scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Zheng Ling , Han Jianming , Wang Mali
Published: June 2019

Triblemma Ching is a genus proposed by Ching Ren‐Chang in 1978, and it is composed of two species, Triblemma lancea (Thunb.) Ching and Triblemma zeylanica (Hook.) Ching. There has been much debate on the systematic position of Triblemma, and this genus has always been included in Diplazium. Here, we have described new features of tracheary elements, epidermis, spore, scale, and rachis of Triblemma revealed using light and scanning electron microscopy and proposed that Triblemma is closely related to Athyriopsis, which conflicts with the traditional viewpoint.
Bodily distress syndrome after receiving vaccines: A case report
Authors: Iwata Kentaro , Katsuda Yoshiaki
Published: June 2019

A 48‐year‐old woman presented with various symptoms, including widespread body pains, insomnia, palpitations, and shortness of breath, after receiving tetanus toxoid. After going through multiple visits to clinicians of various subspecialties, she was referred to our infectious diseases clinic. She was diagnosed with bodily distress syndrome (BDS), possibly triggered by tetanus toxoid injection. Her symptoms improved shortly after reassurance and medical management. Functional disorders such as BDS can occur after vaccinations, and one must be aware of this possibility in patients with multiple symptoms after receiving vaccines.
Prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infections in hemodialysis patients in Vietnam: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Duong Minh C , Nguyen Van T T , Otsu Satoko , McLaws Mary‐Louise
Published: June 2019

Background and Aim

Chronic hemodialysis patients are at high risk of contracting hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) virus infections. In Vietnam, the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections is approximately 10 and 4%, respectively. Although the chronic hemodialysis population is increasing, relatively little epidemiology is available for HBV and HCV infections in this population. To address this, we reviewed the current literature on the magnitude of these infections in the hemodialysis population in Vietnam.

Methods

Four databases were used to search for publications containing the prevalence of HBV and/or HCV infections in hemodialysis patients in Vietnam. Grey literature search was utilized to identify local publications. Prevalence and 95% confidence interval were used or calculated, and a meta‐analysis was conducted on HBV and HCV prevalence for comparison.

Results

Sixteen studies were included in the review. The search identified knowledge gaps in the current literature. Available data show that HBV and HCV infections remain prevalent in the hemodialysis population. HBV prevalence is not different between the north and the south of Vietnam. The pattern of HCV prevalence is different, with recent reports of lower prevalence in the south than in the north, while HCV prevalence varies between hemodialysis units in the same regions.

Conclusions

A national prevalence survey of hemodialysis patients would improve the reliability and generalizability of the findings. However, the review confirmed that both HBV and HCV were prevalent in hemodialysis patients. The findings support a reinforcement of infection prevention to minimize the risk of HBV and HCV transmission in hemodialysis facilities.
A novel null mutation in the pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase catalytic subunit gene (PDP1) causing pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency
Authors: Bedoyan Jirair K. , Hecht Leah , Zhang Shulin , Tarrant Stacey , Bergin Ann , Demirbas Didem , Yang Edward , Shin Ha Kyung , Grahame George J. , DeBrosse Suzanne D. , Hoppel Charles L. , Kerr Douglas S. , Berry Gerard T.
Published: June 2019

Congenital lactic acidosis due to pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase (PDP) deficiency is very rare. PDP regulates pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) and defective PDP leads to PDC deficiency. We report a case with functional PDC deficiency with low activated (+dichloroacetate) and inactivated (+fluoride) PDC activities in lymphocytes and fibroblasts, normal activity of other mitochondrial enzymes in fibroblasts, and novel biallelic frameshift mutation in the PDP1 gene, c.575dupT (p.L192FfsX5), with absent PDP1 product in fibroblasts. Unexpectedly, the patient also had low branched‐chain 2‐ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) activity in fibroblasts with slight elevation of branched‐chain amino acids in plasma and ketoacids in urine but with no pathogenic mutations in the enzymes of BCKDH, which could suggest shared regulatory function of PDC and BCKDH in fibroblasts, potentially in other tissues or cell types as well, but this remains to be determined. The clinical presentation of this patient overlaps that of other patients with primary‐specific PDC deficiency, with neonatal/infantile and childhood lactic acidosis, normal lactate to pyruvate ratio, elevated plasma alanine, delayed psychomotor development, epileptic encephalopathy, feeding difficulties, and hypotonia. This patient exhibited marked improvement of overall development following initiation of ketogenic diet at 31 months of age. To the best of our knowledge, this is the fourth case of functional PDC deficiency with a defined mutation in PDP1.

Synopsis

Pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase (PDP) regulates pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) and defective PDP due to PDP1 mutations leads to PDC deficiency and congenital lactic acidosis.
Status of international normalized ratio control and treatment patterns in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation taking vitamin K antagonist with or without antiplatelet therapy: Results from KORAFII registry
Authors: Park Hee‐Soon , Kim Young‐Hoon , Kim June Soo , Oh Yong‐Seog , Shin Dong‐Gu , Pak Hui‐Nam , Hwang Gyo‐Seung , Choi Kee‐Joon , Oh Seil , Kim Jin‐Bae , Lee Man‐Young , Park Hyung‐Wook , Kim Dae‐Kyeong , Jin Eun‐Sun , Park Jae‐Seok , Oh Il‐Young , Shin Dae‐Hee , Park Hyoung‐Seob , Kim Jun Hyung , Kim Nam‐Ho , Ahn Min‐Soo , Seo Bo‐Jeong , Kim Young‐Joo , Kang Seongsik , Lee Juneyoung
Published: June 2019

Background

Studies have shown that the concomitant use of a vitamin K antagonist (VKA) and an antiplatelet (APL) drug increased the bleeding risk and was less effective at preventing ischemic events. This study aimed to investigate the control status of international normalized ratio (INR) and the discontinuation rate of a VKA in patients taking VKA plus an APL drug compared with those taking a VKA alone.

Methods

Data were extracted from the KORean Atrial Fibrillation Investigation II registry, a multicenter noninterventional prospective observational study. Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients with CHADS2 scores ≥ 1 who newly started (within 3 months) a VKA were enrolled and followed up for 1 year.

Results

A total of 866 NVAF patients (mean age, 67.7 years; 60.3% men) without a bleeding history were divided into the VKA+APL (n = 229) and VKA alone (n = 637) groups. During follow‐up, mean INR level was lower in the VKA+APL group than in the VKA alone group (1.7 ± 0.8 vs 1.9 ± 0.9, P = 0.0005). INR levels were poorly controlled in both groups (66.1% and 64.7%, respectively). Patients in the VKA+APL group more frequently discontinued VKA than patients in the VKA alone group (28.8% vs 24.2%, P = 0.045). Major causes of VKA discontinuation were uncontrolled INR level and patient dissatisfaction or concerns.

Conclusions

The conditions of NVAF patients were inadequately controlled with VKA with or without an APL. These findings suggest that other antithrombotic treatment options are warranted in NVAF patients to achieve INR control.
Mexiletine infusion challenge test for neonatal long QT syndrome with 2:1 atrioventricular block
Authors: Okuwaki Hajime , Kato Yoshiaki , Lin Lisheng , Nozaki Yoshihiro , Takahashi‐Igari Miho , Horigome Hitoshi
Published: June 2019

For applying a genotype‐based treatment in neonatal long QT syndrome (LQTS), early detection of the genotype becomes an important issue. We report a case of a neonate with LQTS type 3 that presented with 2:1 atrioventricular block and underwent a mexiletine infusion challenge test, and achieved shortening of the QTc and 1:1 atrioventricular conduction. The mexiletine infusion challenge test was helpful to make an early detection of the genotype of the LQTS and predicted the drug efficacy in a neonatal patient.
Antibacterial Cotton Fabrics Coated by Biodegradable Cationic Silicone Softeners
Authors: Mao Taoyan , Wei Yuan , Zheng Cheng , Cheng Wenjing , Zhang Zhenqiang , Zhu Yiting , Wang Runhao , Zeng Zhaowen
Published: June 2019

A series of ester‐containing cationic silicone softeners with different alkyl chain lengths were successfully synthesized to manufacture antibacterial cotton fabrics. The relationship between the molecular structure and the softener's mechanical and physical properties was investigated. This study demonstrated that the fabrics treated with SiQCnCl softeners bearing short alkyl chains (n = 9, 11, and 13) showed better instantaneous hydrophilicity, close to that of a pristine cotton fabric. However, the SiQC17Cl‐treated fabrics with long alkyl chains showed the best softness, exceeding that achieved with the conventional finishing agent D1821. And the whiteness index of the fabrics decreased with the use of longer fabric finishing times, with the SiQC15Cl‐treated fabrics exhibiting the highest whiteness index. Moreover, it was also found that SiQCnCl‐treated fabrics showed higher antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus than Escherichia coli, with the SiQC13Cl‐treated fabrics exhibiting the best antibacterial activity. In addition, a model depicting the antibacterial action of the prepared fabrics was illustrated. Finally, it was discovered that the synthesized ester‐containing cationic silicone softener showed better primary biodegradability than D1821 and DC‐5700, exceeding 80% after a 120‐h degradation.
Physical, sensorial and bioactive characteristics of white chocolate with encapsulated green tea extract
Authors: Lončarević Ivana , Pajin Biljana , Tumbas Šaponjac Vesna , Petrović Jovana , Vulić Jelena , Fišteš Aleksandar , Jovanović Petar
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Many studies have described cocoa polyphenols as being bioactive compounds with a potential positive effect on human health. Although dark chocolate is a most powerful source of antioxidants, their content is lower in milk chocolate; conversely, in white chocolate the fat‐free cocoa solids are omitted. The aim of this study was to increase polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity of white chocolate by adding encapsulated green tea extract (GTE) in amounts of 60, 80 and 100 g kg−1.

RESULTS

GTE influenced the particle size parameters, increasing the volume weighted mean from 15.43 μm in white chocolate to 19.34 μm in chocolate with 100 g kg−1 GTE. At the same time, the viscosity of enriched chocolate also increased owing to the addition of new solid particles. The surface color of enriched chocolates changed in accordance with the amount of encapsulate, where all enriched chocolates had a slightly lighter color after 12 months of storage. Total polyphenol content (mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) kg−1) increased from 0.41 in white chocolate to 2.73 in chocolate enriched with maximal GTE. This amount of GTE increased antioxidant capacity (mmol Trolox equivalents kg−1) from 1.22 in white chocolate to 16.12. After 12 months of storage, degradation of polyphenols was found to be a maximum of 37.27%, while antioxidant capacity decreased up to 44.14%.

CONCLUSION

In addition to the impact on chocolate viscosity, GTE added value through the polyphenol content and sensorial profile of the new product with an unusual green tea flavor and a shelf life of at least 12 months. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of corm origin and climatic conditions on saffron (Crocus sativus L.) yield and quality
Authors: Cardone Loriana , Castronuovo Donato , Perniola Michele , Cicco Nunzia , Candido Vincenzo
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Crocus sativus L. is an autumn‐flowering geophyte belonging to the Iridaceae family, known for the medicinal and coloring uses of the spice from its dried stigmas. It is cultivated in countries with different pedoclimatic conditions. This paper reports on a two‐year research project carried out in the Basilicata region of southern Italy on the question of how to obtain the highest performance from saffron. It considers corms from three different geographical origins – ‘Sardinia’, ‘Abruzzo’ and ‘Kozani’ at three different cultivation sites, namely Castelgrande (40° 46′ N, 15° 26′ E, 781 m a.s.l.), Genzano di Lucania (40° 50′ N, 16° 08′ E, 344 m a.s.l.), and Villa d'Agri (40° 22′ N, 15° 48′ E, 638 m a.s.l.).

RESULTS

The highest yields were obtained in the second year by the combination of ‘Genzano di L. × Sardinia’ and ‘Castelgrande × Abruzzo’ with 28.1 and 23.9 kg ha−1 of dried stigma, respectively.

Saffron quality was determined according to ISO 3632, which classifies the samples into three categories depending on the crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal content. Results highlighted that the highest values for coloring (242.1) and bitterness (97.7) were achieved in Genzano di L. during 2013. Moreover, the crocins were correlated positively with stigma yield and air mean temperature but negatively with safranal.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated, through principal component analysis (PCA), that the cultivation site with higher air temperature and without excessive rain during the flowering period generated the best stigma yield with high‐quality traits. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Anti‐inflammatory activity of β‐caryophyllene combined with docosahexaenoic acid in a model of sepsis induced by Staphylococcus aureus in mice
Authors: Brito Laís Ferraz , Oliveira Hellen Braga Martins , das Neves Selis Nathan , e Souza Clarissa Leal Silva , Júnior Manoel Neres Santos , de Souza Erika Pereira , Silva Lucas Santana Coelho da , de Souza Nascimento Flávia , Amorim Aline Teixeira , Campos Guilherme Barreto , de Oliveira Márcio Vasconcelos , Yatsuda Regiane , Timenetsky Jorge , Marques Lucas Miranda
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Sepsis is a set of serious organic manifestations caused by an infection, whose progression culminates in exacerbated inflammation and oxidative stress, poor prognosis, and high hospital costs. Antioxidants used against sepsis have been evaluated, including essential oils such as β‐caryophyllene (BCP), and polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory activity of the association of these two compounds.

RESULTS

Treatment with BCP‐DHA, at a dose of 200 μL/animal, significantly inhibited the migration of neutrophils in a Cg‐induced peritonitis model. After Staphylococcus aureus infection, in the groups treated with BCP‐DHA there was a significant decrease in the total and differential count of leukocytes, increased expression of cytokines TNF‐α and IFN‐γ in treated groups, an increase of IL‐4 and IL‐5 in B/D and B/D + SA groups, and an augmentation of IL‐6 and IL‐12 groups in B/D + SA groups. Histological and bacterial analysis revealed lower neutrophil migration and lower bacterial load in the infected and treated groups.

CONCLUSION

In general, the BCP‐DHA association presented anti‐inflammatory activity against two different models of acute inflammation and infection, showing promising potential as a therapeutic adjuvant in sepsis. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative analysis of nutrient content and energy of eggs from different chicken genotypes
Authors: Antova Ginka A , Gerzilov Vasko T , Petkova Zhana Y , Boncheva Veselina N , Bozhichkova Ivelina N , St Penkov Dimo , Petrov Petar B
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Eggs are important foods in the daily diet of humans and have great biological activity and a high digestibility. Egg yolk is a good source of biologically active substances such as fatty acids, phospholipids, sterols and tocopherols. The eggs of seven chicken genotypes were analyzed for their chemical composition, and a detailed study of the lipids in egg yolk was conducted.

RESULTS

Energy composition of the egg yolk and egg albumen was 29.06–30.51 MJ kg−1 and 19.77–20.93 MJ kg−1 respectively. Regarding their chemical composition: water ranged from 471.7 to 515.4 g kg−1 and 878.3–885.9 g kg−1; fat content in dry matter ranged from 607 to 647 g kg−1 and 6.7–11.6 g kg−1; protein varied from 302 to 331.7 g kg−1 and 823.6–892.5 g kg−1; ash ranged from 33.7 to 37.7 g kg−1 and 63.8–74.0 g kg−1; and nitrogen‐free extracts ranged from 12.7 to 36.5 g kg−1 and 35.0–96.2 g kg−1. The sterols and phospholipids in the yolk lipids were 16–26 g kg−1 and 59–127 g kg−1. The main fatty acids in the lipids were oleic (39.1–47.3%) and palmitic (26.0–35.5%) acids. Cholesterol in the yolk lipids ranged from 15.9 to 25.9 g kg−1. Phosphatidylcholine (389–573 g kg−1), phosphatidylethanolamine (219–355 g kg−1) and phosphatidylinositol (112–284 g kg−1) were the main phospholipids. The content of saturated fatty acids in the phospholipids was significantly higher than that in triacylglycerols.

CONCLUSION

Small variations in the chemical composition of eggs from seven different genotypes were observed. Significant differences in the fatty acid compositions of the main classes of phospholipids and the triacylglycerol fraction were established. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Induction of Osteogenic MC3T3‐E1 Cell Differentiation by Nacre and Flesh Lipids of Tunisian Pinctada radiata
Authors: Ben Ammar Rym , Piet Marie‐Hélène , Brion Alice , Telahigue Khaoula , Werheni Rim , Rousseau Marthe , El Cafsi Mhamed , Gillet Pierre
Published: June 2019

The flesh of the Pinctada radiata pearl oyster from coastal Tunisia is considered as a high source of n‐3 and n‐6 and its shell nacre layer is a promising osteogenic biomaterial. Fatty acid (FA) analysis showed that the major components found in total FA (TFA) were 14:0, 16:0, and 18:0 saturated FA (SFA); 16:1, 18:1, and 20:1 monoenoic FA; 20:4n‐6 (ARA), 22:5n‐3 (DPA). Characteristically high levels of 20:5n‐3 (EPA) and 22:6n‐3 (DHA) (6.53–89.75 mg/100 g TFA) polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) were found, respectively, in the TFA of nacre and flesh. Evaluated the effects in vitro of lipids extracted from nacre (Ln) and from flesh (Lc) of P. radiata on growth and the differentiation of osteoblasts. Cytotoxicity tests (3‐(4, 5‐dimethylthiazolyl‐2)‐2, 5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide [MTT] and lactic acid dehydrogenase c [LDH]) demonstrated that both extracts are nontoxic. Alizarin Red staining was used in an osteoblast differentiation model using the osteoblast MC3T3‐E1 cell line. It showed that the FA of both extracts induced osteoblast differentiation leading to mineralization. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) showed a significantly higher expression of osteocalcin (Bglap) and runt‐related transcription (Runx2) in MC3T3‐E1 cells in the presence of Ln. No difference of osteopontin (Spp1) and Collagen type I (Col1a1) genes compared to the control was observed. In conclusion, these results supported, obtained from our in vitro experimental model used, the interest/potential of lipids extracted from nacre and P. radiata flesh to stimulate bone formation.
Effect of setting time and artificial saliva on the strength evaluated by different methods of dental silver amalgam: A comparative study
Authors: Mohammadi Z. , Mesgar A.S. , Rahmdar S. , Farhangi E.
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of setting time and artificial saliva on the strength of dental amalgam by diametral compressive strength, Hertzian failure loading testing and compressive strength test methods. Nine dental amalgam products are evaluated using three strength measurements, compressive, diametral, and Hertzian loading testing at early (1 h or 2 h), 24 h and 30 days after setting at 37 °C. The trituted amalgams are used to prepare Hertzian, tapered disc by manual condensation according to the ISO standard procedure (ISO 17988: 2014). The compressive and diametral testing specimens are obtained using the mechanical condensation by two apparatus with different specimen dimensions of height and diameter, 8.0 mm×4.0 mm and 2.0 mm×8.0 mm, respectively. The apparatus and schedule specification for preparing compressive testing specimens are according to ISO 24234: 2015 while dimensions of some parts of diametral testing apparatus were modified and the schedule was optimized to provide sound disc test‐pieces by a one‐shot procedure. The diametral and Hertzian testing specimens are also evaluated after 30 days under dry storage conditions and after aging in the artificial saliva. The artificial saliva was prepared according to ISO17988: 2014 standard specifications. The single diametral or “triple‐cleft” fracture path, and radial cracking are observed in all products for diametral and Hertzian testing methods, respectively. The discriminatory power in early strength tests is in order to Hertzian < diametral < compressive. A significant correlation between diametral and compressive strength value is observed at early setting time. It is found a correlation between diametral and Hertzian strength mean value and variance ratio in immersion test.
The effect of retrogression and re‐aging treatment on mechanical and tribological features of AA7075 aluminium alloy
Authors: Özer G. , Gecu R. , Karaaslan A.
Published: June 2019

In this study, T651‐applied AA7075 alloy was subjected to retrogression and re‐aging (RRA) process. Various retrogression temperatures (180 °C, 280 °C, 370 °C) and times (15 min, 30 min, 90 min) were used to determine the effects of temperature and time on the mechanical and tribological properties of the AA7075 alloy. All re‐aging stages were performed at 120 °C for 24 hours. Retrogression and re‐aging‐applied specimens were characterized by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, x‐ray diffraction, Charpy V‐notch impact and tensile tests. Brinell hardness measurements and ball‐on‐disc type tribometer measurements by using AISI 316 ball as a counterpart have also been conducted. Grain boundary precipitates in the T651‐applied specimen was transformed from continuous to the discontinuous structure after retrogression and re‐aging process. Continuous MgZn2 precipitates at grain boundaries were disintegrated and re‐precipitated along the grain boundaries. The sizes of intragranular precipitates have become coarsened by comparison with the T651 condition. Hardness, tensile strength and wear resistance were decreased whereas impact toughness values were increased with increasing retrogression temperature and time. The best wear resistance was obtained in the sample treated at 180 °C for 15 minutes.