bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial phylogenetics of the Chinese angiosperm flora provides insights into endemism and conservation
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Xia , Ye Jian-Fei , Laffan Shawn W. , Mishler Brent D. , Thornhill Andrew H. , Lu Li-Min , Mao Ling-Feng , Liu Bing , Chen You-Hua , Lu An-Ming , Miller Joseph T. , Chen Zhi-Duan
Published: May 2020

Background : The flora of China is well known for its high diversity and endemism. Identifying centers of endemism and designating conservation priorities are essential goals for biodiversity studies. We implemented a spatial phylogenetic analysis of the Chinese angiosperm flora at the generic level to identify centers of neo- and paleo-endemism. Phylogenetic endemism (PE) centers were compared with taxonomic endemism centers, and their implications for conservation were examined. Results: (1) The majority of grid cells in China with significant PE showed concentrations of mixed- or paleo-endemism and were mainly located in the mountainous regions. (2) Nine geographic centers of endemism were identified for 3,513 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Four of these, located in northern and western China, were recognized for the first time. (3) Arid and semiarid regions were commonly linked to significant PE, as has been found in other spatial phylogenetics studies worldwide. (4) Six high-priority conservation gaps were detected by overlaying the boundaries of China’s nature reserves on all significant PE cells. Conclusions: Mountainous regions are both “museums” and “cradles” for Chinese angiosperms, including the mountains of southern and northern China. The areas we highlight as priorities are important for broad-scale conservation planning, especially in the context of evolutionary history preservation.
The Influence of Experiential Knowledge and Societal Perceptions on Decision-Making Regarding Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)
Authors: Montgomery Sophie , Thayer Zaneta M.
Published: May 2020

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) allows women to access genetic information about their fetuses without the physical risk inherent to prior testing methods. The advent of NIPT technology has yielded concerns among bioethicists regarding the quality and process of informed consent, as the routinization of this technology could degrade the intentionality of women choosing whether to undergo testing. Prior studies evaluating the NIPT decision-making process have focused on the clinical encounter as the primary environment for acquisition of biomedical information and decision formation. While important, this conceptualization fails to consider how additional sources of knowledge, including both embodied and empathetic experiential knowledge, shape perceptions of risk and the societal use of NIPT.
In order to address this issue, qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 25 women who had been offered NIPT were performed. Women were categorized by NIPT use/non-use, as well as whether their described decision-making process was routinized. Qualitative analysis of the data using a phenomenological approach was used to explore themes in the data, develop a framework of NIPT decision-making, and compare the perceptions of women with differential decision-making processes and outcomes.
A framework for decision-making regarding NIPT was developed based on three emergent factors: perceptions of the societal use of NIPT, expected emotional impact of genetic information, and perceived utility of genetic information. Qualitative analysis revealed that perceptions of widespread use of NIPT, pervasive societal narratives of NIPT use as progressive and “forward-thinking,” and a perception of information as anxiety-relieving contributed to routinized uptake of NIPT. In contrast, women who displayed a lack of routinization expressed fewer stereotypes regarding the audience for NIPT and relied on communication with their social networks in-person and online to consider how they might use the information provided by NIPT.
The findings of this study reveal the societal narratives and perceptions that shape differential decision-making regarding NIPT. Understanding and addressing these perceptions that influence NIPT decision-making, especially routinized uptake of NIPT, is important as the use and scope of this technology increases.
Computed tomography measurements of presumptively normal canine sternal lymph nodes
Authors: Stehlík Ladislav , Vitulová Hana , Simeoni Francesco , Proks Pavel , Vignoli Massimo
Published: May 2020

Background: There is a lack of information regarding the CT appearance of sternal lymph nodes in dogs. This retrospective anatomic study was aimed to describe the general appearance of sternal lymph nodes in healthy dogs. Results: Twenty-seven dogs with no abnormality in blood work, urinalysis and CT images were included in the study. Dogs were divided into three weight groups; ≤10 kg, 10.1 to 30 kg and ≥30.1 kg. Multi-planar reconstructions of CT images were made to identify sternal lymph nodes. The number, location, size, density and heterogeneity of sternal lymph nodes were recorded. Density and heterogeneity of lymph nodes were measured on pre- and postcontrast images. Except for one dog, sternal lymph nodes were identified in all the dogs. The mean number of sternal lymph nodes per dog was 2.1 (SD 0.6), and the most frequent localization was at the level of the second sternebra (23 dogs; 85%). There was a positive correlation between the weight and all the dimensions of sternal lymph nodes. A significant negative correlation was found between the age and dorsoventral dimension of the lymph node. Short-to-long axis ratios were not significantly different between the weight groups. None of the measured dimensions nor the ratio values was significantly different between the medium-sized dogs (10.1 to 30 kg) and the large dogs (≥30.1 kg). There was a significant difference between precontrast and postcontrast density and heterogeneity values of sternal lymph nodes. Conclusions: Based on the results, we recommend using the short-to-long axis ratios for sternal lymph node size evaluation among dogs of different size. Sternal lymph nodes in this study appeared on precontrast examination as heterogeneous, and homogenous on the postcontrast examination.
Molecular detection of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus, Porcine Circovirus 2 and Hepatitis E Virus in oral fluid compared to their detection in faeces and serum.
Authors: Plut Jan , Jamnikar-Ciglenecki Urska , Stukelj Marina
Published: May 2020

Background: Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV), Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) and Hepatitis E virus (HEV) are common and economically important viral disease causative agents detected in pig oral fluid (OF), faeces and serum at some infection stages. The purpose of this study was to detect PRRSV, PCV2 and HEV on six pig farms to determine which of the three sample types, OF, faeces or serum is appropriate for the diagnosis of these viruses in different pig categories.The following pig categories were included: 5 weeks-old (w/o), 7 w/o, 9 w/o, 11 w/o weaners, fatteners and breeding sows. Pursuant to the preliminary detection of each pathogen at the selected farms, OF samples, faeces, serum pools and 10 individual sera were examined, using PCR, for each age category. If any of the viruses were found in pools of faeces and OF, then faeces and OF from positive farms were tested separately for each pig category. The viral nucleic acids were detected using RT-PCR, PCR and real-time RT-PCR, for PRRSV, PCV2 and HEV respectively.Results: PRRSV and HEV were detected on one farm and PCV2 on three others, positive results being more often obtained from the OF than from the faeces of the same animals. Ten individual serum samples from pigs from the same group of animals were also tested. The viruses were detected in almost all individual sera and OF in the same pig category with some exceptions: PRRSV was detected in the OF of fatteners but was absent in their sera; on Farm 2, PCV2 was detected in sera of 11 w/o pigs and fatteners but absent in group samples of their OF and, vice versa, in case of 9 w/o animals; HEV was detected in the OF of the youngest, 5 w/o weaners and absent in sera of the same age group.Conclusions: The primary finding of the study is that OF is a welfare-friendly, non-invasive and highly efficient matrix for pathogen detection, thus evidencing the usefulness of pig OF as a matrix in which each of the three viruses considered can be detected with the highest probability.
What is the role of the Practice Nurse in the care of people living with dementia, or cognitive impairment, and their support person(s)? : A systematic review.
Authors: Gibson Caroline , Goeman Dianne , Pond Dimity
Published: May 2020

Background The potential value of expanding the Practice Nurse role to include the recognition and management of dementia has been acknowledged. Practice Nurses are well-positioned to provide comprehensive dementia information and support so that people living with dementia are better equipped to self-manage their health and live well with dementia. The purpose of this review was to systematically examine published literature to identify existing and potential roles of Practice Nurse’s in the delivery of care to people affected by dementia and to describe the characteristics and effectiveness of nurse interventions in dementia models of care. Methods The PRISMA statement was used as a guide to systematically review the evidence for roles and characteristics of the Practice Nurse in the delivery of dementia care. A comprehensive literature search of seven electronic databases and Google scholar identified relevant original research published in English between January 2000 and January 2019. Thirteen articles met the inclusion criteria and were extracted into the Covidence software for analysis.Results The heterogeneity of the included studies purpose, design and outcomes measures and the diversity in health systems and primary care nurses scope of practice made it difficult to synthesise the findings and draw conclusions. The heterogeneity did, however, provide important insights into the characteristics of roles undertaken by nurses working in the general practice setting, which were potentially beneficial to people living with dementia and their support person. These included patient accessibility to the Practice Nurse, early recognition and management of cognitive changes, care management and collaboration with the General Practitioner. Limitations of the provision of dementia care by Practice Nurses included a lack of definition of the role, inadequate dementia specific training, time constraints and poor communication with General Practitioners. Conclusions Embedding an evidence-based model that describes the role of the Practice Nurse in dementia care provision has the potential to increase early recognition of cognitive impairment and more appropriate primary care management of dementia.Systematic Review registration numberPROSPERO 2018 CRD42018088191
Long-Term Effectiveness and Safety of Infliximab, Golimumab and Golimumab-IV in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients from a Canadian Prospective Observational Registry
Authors: Rahman Proton , Baer Philip , Keystone Ed , Choquette Denis , Thorne Carter , Haraoui Boulos , Chow Andrew , Faraawi Rafat , Olszynski Wojciech , Kelsall John , Rampakakis Emmanouil , Lehman Allen J. , Nantel Francois
Published: May 2020

Background: Long-term clinical registries are essential tools to evaluate new therapies in a patient population that differs from those in randomized clinical trials. The objectives are to describe the profile of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients treated with anti-TNF agents in Canadian routine care.Methods: RA patients eligible for treatment with Infliximab (IFX), golimumab (GLM) or intravenous golimumab (GLM-IV) as per their respective Canadian product monographs were enrolled into the BioTRAC registry between 2002 and 2017. Study visits occurred at baseline and every 6 months thereafter. Effectiveness was assessed by changes in disease activity. Safety was evaluated by the incidence of adverse events (AEs) and drug survival.Results: Of the 890 IFX-, 530 GLM-SC- and 157 GLM-IV-treated patients, the proportion of females ranged from 77.0-86.6%, the mean ages from 55.8-57.7 and the mean disease duration from 6.5-8.6 years. A significant decrease in baseline disease duration and disease activity parameters (DAS, TJC, SJC, HAQ, AM stiffness, MDGA, PtGA, CRP, ESR) was observed over time. Treatment with IFX, GLM-SC and GLM-IV significantly improved all disease parameters over time. The incidence of AEs was 105, 113 and 82.6 /100 PYs and the incidence of SAEs was 11.7, 11.2 and 4.68 /100 PYs for IFX, GLM-SC and GLM-IV-treated patients, respectively. Conclusion: Differences in baseline characteristics between patients treated with an anti-TNFs over time shows the evolution of treatment modalities over time. All treatments significantly reduced disease activity and improved functionality in a similar fashion. The incidence of adverse events was consistent with the safety profiles of IFX and GLM.Trial Registration: NCT00741793
Live Poultry Market Closure and Avian Influenza A (H7N9) infection in cities of China, 2013-2017: An ecological study
Authors: Chen Ying , Cheng Jian , Xu Zhiwei , Hu Wenbiao , Lu Jiahai
Published: May 2020

Background: Previous studies have proven that the closure of live poultry markets (LPMs) was an effective intervention to reduce human risk of avian influenza A (H7N9) infection, but evidence is limited on the impact of scale and duration of LPMs closure on the transmission of H7N9. Method: Five cities (i.e., Shanghai, Suzhou, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Hangzhou) with the largest number of H7N9 cases in mainland China from 2013 to 2017 were selected in this study. Data on laboratory-confirmed H7N9 human cases in those five cities were obtained from the Chinese National Influenza Centre. The detailed information of LPMs closure (i.e., area and duration) was obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture. We used a generalized linear model with a Poisson link to estimate the effect of LPMs closure, reported as relative risk reduction (RRR). We used classification and regression trees (CARTs) model to select and quantify the dominant factor of H7N9 infection. Results: All five cities implemented the LPMs closure, and the risk of H7N9 infection decreased significantly after LPMs closure with RRR ranging from 0.80 to 0.93. Respectively, a long-term LPMs closure for 10-13 weeks elicited a sustained and highly significant risk reduction of H7N9 infection (RRR = 0.98). Short-time LPMs closure with 2 weeks in every epidemic did not reduce the risk of H7N9 infection (p>0.05). Partially closed LPMs in some suburbs contributed only 35% for reduction rate (RRR=0.35). Shenzhen implemented partial closure for first 3 epidemics (p>0.05) and all closure in the latest 2 epidemic waves (RRR=0.64). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that LPMs all closure in whole city can be a highly effective measure comparing with partial closure (i.e. only urban closure, suburb and rural remain open). Extend the duration of closure and consider permanently closing the LPMs will help improve the control effect. The effect of LPMs closure seems greater than that of meteorology on H7N9 transmission.
Ocular lesions in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia: genetics and clinical characteristics
Authors: Gómez-Acebo Ines , Prado Sara Rodríguez , Mora Angel De la , Puente Roberto Zarrabeitia , Varela Beatriz de la Roza , Dierssen-Sotos Trinidad , Llorca Javier
Published: May 2020

Background The aim of our study is to study the association between eye lesions in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT) and other signs of the disease, as well as to characterize its genetics.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted of a cohort of 206 patients studied in the HHT Unit of Hospital de Sierrallana, a reference centre for Spanish patients with HHT. Odds ratios for several symptoms or characteristics of HHT and ocular lesions were estimated using logistic regression adjusting for age and sex.Results The ocular involvement was associated with being a carrier of a mutation for the ENG gene, that is, suffering from a type 1 HHT involvement (OR = 2.09; 95% CI [1.17-3.72]). p = 0.012). In contrast, patients with ocular lesions have less frequently mutated ACVRL1/ALK1 gene (OR = 0.52; 95% CI [0.30- 3.88], p = 0.022). Conclusions In conclusion, half of the patients with HHT in our study have ocular involvement. These eye lesions are associated with mutations in the ENG gene and ACVRL1/ALK1 gene. Thus, the ENG gene increases the risk of ocular lesions, while being a carrier of the mutated ACVRL1/ALK1 gene decreases said risk.
Association between risk of preeclampsia and maternal plasma trimethylamine-N-oxide in second trimester and at the time of delivery
Authors: Huang Xin , Li Zuodong , Gao Zhou , Wang Dapeng , Li Xiaohui , Li Ying , Mi Chunmei , Lei Jun
Published: May 2020

Background: The data on the association between the microbiota-dependent metabolite trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) during pregnancy and risk of preeclampsia (PE) is limited. Methods: We, therefore, conducted a prospective nested case control study during Sep 2017 to Dec 2018 to examine the association between plasma TMAO measured during pregnancy and the risk of PE. Total of 17 patients diagnosed with EOPE (early onset PE), 49 with LOPE (late onset PE) and 198 healthy controls were enrolled. Blood samples were collected at 15-23 gestational weeks and time at delivery. The Logistic regression model was used to assess the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for TMAO and risk of PE, EOPE, LOPE, mild PE, and severe PE. Results: We found that the mean TMAO levels of overall subjects in the second trimester (T2) and at the time of delivery (TD) were 90.39 µg/m3 (SD=45.91) and 175.01 µg/m3 (SD=160.97), respectively. No significant spearman correlation was found between the TMAO in those two periods (p> 0.05). T2 TMAO was not significantly associated with risk of PE or risk of any PE subtypes (p >0.05). However, TD TMAO was significant associated with risk of PE, EOPE and severe PE (adjusted OR and 95%CI were 1.24(1.09, 1.40), 1.62(1.29, 2.03), and 1.41(1.17, 1.70)) per 50µg/m3 increment, respectively). Conclusion: Our study found that plasma TMAO level would alter over the course of pregnancy. The major role of TMAO in PE development might be in the accelerating process not in the initiation.
Conscious sedation for the management of dental anxiety in third molar extraction surgery: a systematic review.
Authors: Melini Matteo , Forni Andrea , Cavallin Francesco , Parotto Matteo , Zanette Gastone
Published: May 2020

Background: Dental anxiety is a condition associated with avoidance of dental treatment and increased medical and surgical risks. This systematic review aims to summarize available evidence on conscious sedation techniques used for the management of Dental anxiety in patients scheduled for third molar extraction surgery, to identify best approaches and knowledge gaps. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted including MEDLINE/Pubmed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, clinicaltrials.gov and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews through March 2019. Only randomized controlled trials were included. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Risk of bias was appraised as reported in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Results: Seventeen RCTs with a total of 1,788 patients were included. Some aspects limited the feasibility of a meaningful meta-analysis, thus a narrative synthesis was conducted. Conscious sedation was associated with improvement in Dental anxiety in six studies. One study reported lower cortisol levels with midazolam vs. placebo, while another study found significant variation in perioperative renin levels with remifentanil vs. placebo. Conclusions: This review found inconclusive and conflicting findings about the role of Conscious sedation in managing Dental anxiety during third molar extraction surgery. Relevant questions remain unanswered due to the lack of consistent, standardized outcome measures. Future research may benefit from addressing these limitations in study design.
Dynamics of forage and land cover changes in Teltele rangeland Southern, Ethiopia. Using geospatial and field survey data
Authors: Fenetahun Yeneayehu , Yong-dong Wang , You Yuan , Xinwen Xu
Published: May 2020

The gradual conversion of rangelands into other land use types is one of the main challenges affecting the sustainable management of rangelands in Teltele. This study aimed to examine the changes, drivers, trends in land use and land cover (LULC), to determine the link between the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and forage biomass and the associated impacts of forage biomass production dynamics on the Teltele rangelands in Southern Ethiopia. A Combination of remote sensing data, field interviews, discussion and observations data were used to examine the dynamics of LULC between 1992–2019 and forage biomass production. The Results indicate that there is a marked increase in farm land (35.3%), bare land (13.8%) and shrub land (4.8%), while the reduction found in grass land (54.5%), wet land (69.3%) and forest land (10.5%). The larger change in land observed in both grassland and wetland part was observed during the period from 1995–2000 and 2015–2019, this is due to climate change impact (El-Niño) happened in Teltele rangeland during the year 1999 and 2016 respectively. The quantity of forage in different land use/cover types, grass land had the highest average amount of forage biomass of 2,092.3 kg/ha, followed by wetland with 1,231 kg/ha, forest land with 1,191.3 kg/ha, shrub land with 180 kg/ha, agricultural land with 139.5 kg/ha and bare land with 58.1 kg/ha. The significant linkage observed between NDVI and LULC change types (when a high NDVI value, the LULC changes also shows positive value or an increasing trend). In addition, NDVI value directly related to the greenness status of vegetation occurred on each LULC change types and its value directly linkage forage biomass production pattern with grassland land use types. 64.8% (grass land), 43.3% (agricultural land), 75.1% (forest land), 50.6% (shrub land), 80.5% (bare land) and 75.5% (wet land) more or higher dry biomass production in the wet season compared to the dry season.
Sugarcane Bagasse Pyrolysis: Investigating the Effect of Process Parameters on the Product Yields.
Authors: Saif Ahmed Gaber H. , Ali Mohamed R. O. , Wahid Seddik S.
Published: May 2020

The objective of the present work is to investigate the pyrolysis of sugarcane bagasse in a semi-batch reactor and study the effect of process parameters of pyrolysis on the products yield to determine optimum parameters for maximum bio-oil production. Parameters of the pyrolysis process such as temperature, particle size of sugarcane bagasse and flow rate of nitrogen (N2) have been varied as 350–600 ºC, 0.25–2 mm and 100–500 cm3/min, respectively. According to the various pyrolysis conditions applied in the experimental studies, the obtained oil, char and gas yields ranged between 38 and 45 wt%, 24 and 36 wt%, and 23 and 37 wt%, respectively. The maximum pyrolysis bio-oil yield of 45 wt% was achieved at temperature of 500 ºC, particle size of 0.5 -1 mm with nitrogen(N2) flow rate of 200 cm3/min. Based on the results captured under this study's pyrolysis conditions, temperature is considered to be the most important parameter for product distribution. As the increases of the pyrolysis temperature the bio-char yield decreased and increase of gas yield. The bio-oil yield increases with increasing the temperature, reaches a maximum value at about 500 ºC and reduces thereafter at higher temperature is expected due to secondary cracking reactions of the volatiles, which results produce a higher gaseous yield.
Idiographic analyses of motivation and related processes in participants with schizophrenia following a therapeutic intervention for negative symptoms
Authors: Thonon Bénédicte , Aubel Evelyne Van , Lafit Ginette , Libera Clara Della , Laroi Frank
Published: May 2020

Background
Motivational negative symptoms hinder quality of life and daily functioning of individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. A recently developed intervention, Switch, has shown promising effects on negative symptoms and functional outcomes. Switch targets multiple cognitive, emotional and behavioural processes associated with motivation and goal directed behaviours. We aimed to investigate its effects on motivation and associated processes and explore the dynamics between the processes.
Methods
We used a single case approach (n = 3), with a pre-post and follow-up assessment design, which also included ambulatory assessments (experience sampling method, ESM; and step count). We computed autoregressive lag 1 models to evaluate the effects of the intervention on daily motivation levels and related processes, descriptive pie-charts, and vector autoregressive modelling to reveal the dynamics of the processes over time.
Results
The intervention was beneficial for each participant according to traditional evaluations of motivational negative symptoms, apathy, daily functioning and quality of life. The effects on the ESM variables revealed distinct outcomes for each individual. The dynamics between the various processes differed between participants, and fluctuated within participants (when comparing baseline, intervention phase, and follow-up).
Conclusions
This study used an innovative approach to look at the efficacy of an intervention. The intervention seems to lead to significant improvements. The mechanisms of change need to be further investigated.
Trial registration number:
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04325100. Registered 27 March 27, 2020 -retrospectively registered, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04325100
Reporting:
Guidelines from the Transparent Reporting of Evaluations with Non-randomized Designs (TREND) statement [1] were followed.
Risk factors of heart failure among patients with hypertension attending a tertiary hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria: The RISK-HHF case-control study
Authors: Oguntade Ayodipupo Sikiru , Ajayi IkeOluwapo
Published: May 2020

Background: Hypertension is the leading cause of heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa. Preventive public health approach to reduce the scourge of HF must seek to understand the risk factors of heart failure in at risk populations. The aim of this study was to characterize the modifiable risk factors of HF among patients with hypertension attending a cardiology clinic. Methods: One hundred and one (101) case-control age- and sex-matched pairs were recruited. The study population were adults with a clinical diagnosis of hypertensive heart failure (cases) and hypertension. They were interviewed and evaluated for modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. Associations between variables were tested with McNemar’s chi square test and paired sample t test as appropriate. Conditional logistic regression modelling was used to determine the risk factors of HF in the study population while ‘punafcc’ package in stata15 was used to calculate the population attributable fraction (PAF) of risk factors. Results: Low education attainment ( aOR: 2.38, 95% CI: 0.91-6.20; PAF: 21.1%, 95% CI: 5.1-34.5 ) showed borderline association with HF while alcohol consumption (aOR: 10.40, 95% CI: 2.30-47.04; PAF: 33.5%, 95% CI: 21.6-43.6) and suboptimal medication adherence (aOR: 7.00, 95% CI: 2.31-21.26; PAF: 69.7%, 95% CI: 59.4-77.4) were strong risk factors for HF even after adjustment for other modifiable risk factors. These three dominant risk factors accounted for 89% of the PAF of HF. Dietary factors were not significantly associated with HF risk in adjusted analyses. Conclusions: The risk factors for heart failure in hypertensive patients are largely modiﬁable. Public health interventions and preventive cardiovascular care to improve medication adherence and reduce alcohol consumption among patients with hypertension are recommended.
The Association Between Alcohol and Dysmenorrhea in University Students in North China
Authors: Yang Zhuo , Guo Jia , Sun Ming-li , He Qin-cheng , Ma Ya-Nan
Published: May 2020

Background Evidence supporting the definitive effect of alcohol consumption on dysmenorrhea has been sparse. The current study was aim to evaluate the relationship between alcohol consumption and dysmenorrhea among age-stratified female college students in northern China.Methods A total of 3692 female college students were included in this cross-sectional study. The logical regression model was performed to evaluate the association between alcohol consumption and primary dysmenorrhea. The model adjusted for confounding factors such as age and body mass index, and estimated the odds ratio (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (CIs).Results Multivariable-adjusted models showed the analysis stratified by age at menarche (AAM) revealed that the prevalence of dysmenorrhea in participants with AAM < 13 years old (67.2%) was significantly higher than that in participants with AAM ≥13 years old (61.3%) (P = 0.003). Alcohol consumption showed a dose-response relationship with dysmenorrhea in participants with AAM ≥13 years old.Conclusion Our findings showed AAM modified the association of alcohol consumption with primary dysmenorrhea among female university students in North China.
Optimal Generation Expansion Planning Model of a Combined Thermal-wind-PV Power System Considering Multiple Boundary Conditions: A Case Study in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Li Yu , Dai Mei , Hao Songtao , Qiu Gang , Li Guoqing , Xiao Guilian , Liu Dagui
Published: May 2020

Background The scarcity of fossil fuels and their high emissions impact on the environment have forced the rapid development of renewable energy. Wind and photovoltaic power play a more and more important role in today's power system because of their clean and renewable characteristics. However, with the large-scale grid connection of wind and photovoltaic power, the contradiction between renewable energy and thermal power is becoming more and more serious. The unreasonable planning of power generation resources has also caused a lot of waste of electric power.Methods To solve this problem, this paper comprehensively considers the construction and operation costs of power plants, and constructs an optimal generation expansion planning model of a combined thermal-wind-PV power system with the objective of minimizing total cost. The planning is calculated under the boundary conditions of ensuring the safe operation of the power grid and taking into account the share requirement, utilization requirements and construction requirements for renewable energy. The model is applied to the self-use and external power plants in Xinjiang.Results The results show that this generation expansion plan can reduce the total cost of the power plants while ensuring the load demand. The renewable energy has also received more consumption share and its abandonment rate has dropped significantly. Numerical examples show that the optimization model has good applicability.Conclusion The proposed optimization model can realize the coordinated development of three types of power sources under multiple boundary conditions, which can not only guarantee the economy of power construction, but also take into account the optimization of environmental benefits. Reasonable generation expansion planning can improve energy efficiency, achieve clean and low carbon in the process of power generation, and promote the sustainable development of society.
Analysis of Salmonella enterica Enteritidis isolates from chicken and chicken meat products using PFGE, and MLST
Authors: Zakaria Zunita , Hassan Latiffah , Sharif Zawiyah , Ahmad Norazah , Ali Rohaya Mohd , Husin Suraya Amir , Hazis Nor Hazrin binti Abd , Sohaimi Norfitriah , Bakar Shafini Abu , Garba Bashiru
Published: May 2020

BackgroundSalmonella is a very important food-borne pathogen causing illness in humans. The emergence of drug-resistant strains also constitutes a serious worry to global health and livestock productivity. This study investigated Salmonella isolates from poultry and poultry products using the phenotypic antimicrobial screening as well as the molecular characteristics of Salmonella isolates. Upon serotyping of the isolates, the antimicrobial susceptibility profiling using a panel of 9 commonly used antimicrobials was done. Subsequently, the molecular profiles of all the isolates were further determined using Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) and the Whole Genome Multi-Locus Sequence Type (wgMLST) analysis in order to obtain the sequence types. ResultsThe PFGE data was input into FPQuest software, and the dendrogram generated was studied for possible genetic relatedness among the isolates. All the isolates were found to belong to the S. Enteritidis serotype with notable resistance to tetracycline, gentamycin, streptomycin, and sulfadimidine. The S. Enteritidis isolates tested predominantly subtyped into the ST11 and ST1925, which was found to be a single cell variant of ST11. The STs were found to occur in chicken meat, food, and live chicken cloacal swab, which may indicate the persistence of the bacteria in multiple foci. ConclusionThe data demonstrate the presence of S. Enteritidis among chicken, indicating its preference and reservoir status for enteric salmonella pathogens.
Effects of RORγt overexpression on the murine central nervous system
Authors: Sasaki Tetsuya , Nagata Rei , Takahashi Satoru , Takei Yosuke
Published: May 2020

Objective T-helper 17 (Th17) cells are a subset of CD4 + T cells that produce interleukin (IL)-17A. Recent studies showed that an increase in circulating IL-17A causes cognitive dysfunction, although it is unknown how increased systemic IL-17A affects brain function. Using transgenic mice overexpressing RORγt, a transcription factor essential for differentiation of Th17 cells (RORγt Tg mice), we examined changes in the brain caused by chronically increased IL-17A resulting from excessive activation of Th17 cells. Results RORγt Tg mice exhibited elevated Rorc and IL-17A mRNA expression in the colon, as well as a chronic increase in circulating IL-17A. We found that the immunoreactivity of Iba1 and density of microglia were lower in the dentate gyrus of RORγt Tg mice compared with wild-type mice. However, GFAP + astrocytes were unchanged in the hippocampi of RORγt Tg mice. Levels of synaptic proteins were not significantly different between RORγt Tg and wild-type mouse brains. In addition, novel object location test results indicated no difference in preference between these mice. Our findings indicate that a continuous increase of IL-17A in response to RORγt overexpression resulted in decreased microglia activity in the dentate gyrus, but had only a subtle effect on murine hippocampal functions.
Intensive Functional Neurorehabilitation and Follow-up of 84 Paraplegic Dogs Affected by Intervertebral Disc Disease
Authors: Martins Ângela Rocha , Gouveia Débora , Cardoso Ana , Viegas Inês , Millis Darryl , Ferreira António
Published: May 2020

BackgroundThe objectives of this study were to verify whether the functionality obtained with functional neurorehabilitation intensive protocols (FNRIP) improve ambulation, promoting a new therapeutic approach, and understand the expected time for functional recovery. Furthermore, to know whether “spinal reflex” locomotion could be a functional locomotory pattern, which may improve the quality of life.A controlled prospective clinical study using a large cohort of 84 dogs comprising mostly chondrodystrophic-breeds. The dogs were diagnosed with T10-L3 Hansen Type I, using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, and treated with hemilaminectomy. All had postsurgical neurological stage 0 or 1, according to the Open Field Score (OFS), and showed either an absent or decreased flexor peripheral reflex. All patients were subjected to FNRIP within a maximum of 3 months, data were recorded on days 1,3,7,15,30,45,60,75, 90 and patients were followed-up after 8-10 days, at 1 and 6 months, and in some cases, after 1 and 2 years. ResultsFifty-one dogs were admitted with an OFS of 1 and were discharged with an OFS of 13 (100% functionality). Of the 29 dogs that were admitted with an OFS 0, 16 were discharged (55%) in an ambulatory state, of which six dogs recovered deep pain perception (DPP) after 4 weeks, and 10 showed functional “spinal reflex” locomotion. 79.3% of these dogs achieved autonomous miction. The results were time-limited, as they were recorded within 2 to 3 months, with follow-up until 6 months. A pattern of sustained functional “spinal reflex” locomotion was observed in 30% of the dogs observed over 2 years.ConclusionsThe FNRIP are viable to regain independence and quality of life in paraplegic dogs with/without DPP, secondary to acute Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
Anti-inflammatory Activity of Formononetin in a Collagen-induced Arthritis Mouse Model ofRheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Zhao Ying , QU GUIWU , Lu Wenxue , Lv Qing , Shi Wenxing , Xie Shuyang , Cao Qizhi , Li Defang , Zhou Fengmei
Published: May 2020

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to bone erosion and joint dysfunction. Although there are options for the treatment of RA, safer and more effective drugs are still being sought. Formononetin (FMN) is an isoflavonoid compound found in various plants, such as Astragalus propinquus Schischkin and Spatholobus suberectus. It has anti-tumor, anti-bacterial, anti-lipid peroxidation, and estrogen-like activities，and is a noteworthy compound for screening of anti-RA drugs. Methods: To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of FMN in a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model, thirty-six C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 6 groups: a healthy control group and 5 CIA groups. Arthritis was induced the CIA groups using chicken collagen type II. The CIA groups were divided in a control group (RA), a tripterygium glycosides (10 mg/kg body weight) treated group (TG), a low-dose (50 mg/kg) FMN group (FMN-L), a middle-dose(100mg/kg) FMN group (FMN-M), and a high-dose (200 mg/kg) FMN group (FMN-H). The control mice and CIA mice in the RA group were treated with an equal volume of 5% carboxymethylcellulose sodium. Drugs were delivered three times a week for four weeks, and the bodyweight, food-uptake, and swelling of the paws were monitored during the treatment process. Inflammatory cytokines and other biochemical indexes in the serum and joint tissues were analyzed, along with the expression levels of NF-κB pathway-related proteins (IκBα, p65, p-p65, TIPE2, and PCNP) in the spleen. Histopathological examinations were processed for the hind limbs. Results: FMN-M dramatically reduced the arthritis index in the CIA mice, inhibited the inflammatory cell infiltration, and prevented damage to the synovium and cartilage. Mechanistic studies suggested that FMN might reduce inflammation by inhibiting IκB-α degradation and by regulating the expression and release of NF-κB p65. Conclusions: These data suggest that FMN might be an active therapeutic agent for RA by preventing bone destruction, regulating inﬂammatory mediators, and suppressing NF-κB signaling pathways.
Phyto-mediated silver nanoparticles via Mellisa officinalis aqueous and methanolic extracts: synthesis, characterization and biological properties
Authors: Nayeri Fatemeh Dehghan , Mafakheri Sudabeh , Mirhosseini Maryam
Published: May 2020

The aim of the study was to examine the influence of extraction method on the size, shape and morphology of synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Silver nanoparticles were prepared by the aqueous and methanolic extracts of lemon balm. The properties of obtained nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis, SEM, XRD and FTIR techniques. The UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed the formation of AgNPs by observing a distinct surface Plasmon resonance band around 450 nm. SEM images showed different shape, size and morphology of AgNPs using two different extracts types. AgNPs derived from the aqueous extract were rod-shaped with a diameter of 19 to 40 nm whereas spherical particles were synthesized by the methanolic extract found smaller with size distribution ranging from 13 to 35 nm. The XRD pattern indicated that AgNPs formed by the reduction of Ag + ions using methanolic extract of M. officinalis were crystal-like in nature. The functional groups of M. officinalis methanolic extract involved in synthesis and stabilization of AgNPs were investigated by FTIR. In addition, AgNPs-containing methanolic extract showed higher antioxidant activity. These particles exhibited remarkable antimicrobial activity against gram positive and negative bacteria and a fungus. The nanoparticles produced by the methanolic extract of the lemon balm showed antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The production of silver nanoparticles using plant extract is rapid, low cost and eco-friendly. Therefore, green chemistry is a good alternative to industrial production of nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles can be used as an antiseptic to sterilize the surrounding area and the hospital wastes.
Full-endoscopic lumbar discectomy for two contiguous level adolescent lumbar disc herniation
Authors: mao lu , Zhu Bin , Wu Tao xiao , Wang Feng , Zhang Cong , Zhao Jie
Published: May 2020

Background

Symptomatic lumbar disc herniation is rarely seen among adolescents. Adolescent lumbar disc herniation (ALDH) accounts for 0.5–6.8% of all those treated. Evidently, to our knowledge, no studies have emphasized the operative technique to treat two contiguous level adolescent lumbar disc herniation simultaneously. In this study, we aim to investigate the feasibility and advantages of one-stage full-endoscopic lumbar discectomy(FELD)for two contiguous level ALDH. This is the first paper, to my knowledge, dealing with two contiguous level ALDH simultaneously with one-stage full-endoscopic lumbar discectomy.
Methods

Between January 2014 and December 2019, patients received FELD surgery for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) in 2 main minimally invasive spine center of China were selected for screening of this study. Data of 5877 cases were retrospectively analyzed (2780 cases and 3097 cases, respectively). The inclusion criteria were patient under 21-year old, two contiguous level symptomatic lumbar disc herniation received one-stage 2 level PELD surgery. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores and modified Macnab criteria were used to assess the preoperative and postoperative clinical results.
Results

11 patients were enrolled in this study (0.19%,11/5877), 8 patients were male and 3 were female. 9 patients with LDH in the same side underwent single-incision 2 level FELD surgery via transforaminal approach. 2 patients with LDH in different side underwent FELD surgery via combined transforaminal and interlaminar approach. There were no immediate perioperative complications. The visual analog scale (VAS) decreased significantly in both early and late follow-up evaluations and these score demonstrated significant improvement in late follow-up (P < 0.01). For the modified MacNab criteria, the final outcome results were excellent in 9 patients (81.8%), good in 1 patients (0.9%), fair in1 patients (0.9%), and the overall success rate was 90.9%.
Conclusion

One-stage full-endoscopic lumbar discectomy for 2 level symptomatic ALDH is an effective and less invasive method, which can be considered as an alternative good technique for selected adolescent patients.
Functional characterization of mungbean CONSTANS-LIKE genes reveals a key role for CONSTANS-LIKE 2 in the control of flowering time under short-day conditions
Authors: Liu Chenyang , Zhang Qianqian , Zhu Hong , Cai Chunmei , Li Shuai
Published: May 2020

Background

CONSTANS-LIKE (COL) genes play important roles in the regulation of plant growth and development, and they have been analyzed in many plant species. However, few investigations have examined COL genes in mungbean (Vigna radiata).
Results

In this study, we identified and characterized a total 14 of VrCOL genes from mungbean, which distributed on 7 of the 11 mungbean chromosomes. Based on their conserved domains, VrCOLs were clustered into three groups (I, II and III), which contained 4, 5 and 5 members, respectively. The gene structures and conserved motifs of the VrCOL genes were analyzed, and two duplicated gene pairs, VrCOL2/VrCOL5 and VrCOL6/VrCOL9, were identified. A total of 82 cis-acting elements were found in the VrCOL promoter regions, and the numbers and types of cis-acting elements in each VrCOL promoter region differed. As a result, VrCOLs showed distinct expression patterns in different tissues. Among these VrCOL genes, VrCOL2 showed a close phylogenetic relationship with Arabidopsis thaliana (A. thaliana) CO and displayed daily oscillations in expression under short day conditions but not long day conditions. In addition, overexpression of VrCOL2 accelerated flowering in A. thaliana under short day conditions by activating the expression of flowering time gene FT and TSF.
Conclusion

Overall, we identified 14 VrCOL genes from mungbean using genome-wide identification. Characteristics and transcription pattern analysis of VrCOL genes revealed their important roles in plant growth and development, and our results suggested that VrCOL2 regulate flowering time under short day conditions. Our study lays the foundation for further dissection of VrCOL gene functions.
Relevant responses in grape cells exposed to endophytic fungi or to fungal extracts at transcriptome and metabolome scopes
Authors: Qu Jin-Zhuo , Liu Fang , Pan Xiao-Xia , Ma Yin-Min , Zhou Ming , Xiang Si-Yu , Liao Chang-Mei , Li Tong , Zhang Han-Bo , Yang Ming-Zhi
Published: May 2020

Background: Endophytes with beneficial effects on hosts are potentially utilized in crop managements. However, the use of living endophytes will risk the possible pathogenicity or other ecological problems. Whereby, it will be great value if functions of certain endophytes on crops could be replaced by elicitors extracted from living endophytes. For addressing this issue, the present work therefore compared the impacts of three endophytic fungal strains and their soluble extracts on grape cells at both the transcriptomic and metabolome scopes. Results: Our results revealed that the exposure to living fungi or fungal extracts triggered responses in terms of both the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the differentially regulated metabolites (DRMs) in grape cells, with great fungal strain-specificities. Compared to the living fungi exposed grape cells, less DEGs and DRMs responses were initiated in most of the corresponding fungal extracts treated grape cells. Nevertheless, major proportions of specific DEGs, DRMs, and the subsequently enriched GO function terms and KEGG pathways in living fungi treated grape cells were also detected in those fungal extracts exposed grape cells. Conclusions: The work demonstrated that the specific effects of certain living endophytic fungus on grape cells could be replaced or partially replaced by their fungal extracts, and confirmed an alternative approach to utilize endophytes in agriculture with more eco-safety promises.