bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coexpression and Transcriptome analyses identify active Apomixis-related genes in Paspalum notatum leaves
Authors: de Oliveira Fernanda A. , Vigna Bianca B. Z. , da Silva Carla C. , Fávero Alessandra P. , de Matta Frederico P. , Azevedo Ana L. S. , de Souza Anete P.
Published: January 2020

Background

Paspalum notatum exhibits both sexual and apomictic cytotypes and, thus, is considered a good model for studies of apomixis because it facilitates comparative approaches. In this work, transcriptome sequencing was used to compare contrasting P. notatum cytotypes to identify differential expression patterns and candidate genes involved in the regulation of expression of this trait.

Results

We built a comprehensive transcriptome using leaf and inflorescence from apomictic tetraploids and sexual diploids/tetraploids and a coexpression network based on pairwise correlations between transcript expression profiles. We identified genes exclusively expressed in each cytotype and genes differentially expressed between pairs of cytotypes. Gene Ontology enrichment analyses were performed to better interpret the data. We de novo assembled 114,306 reference transcripts. In total, 536 candidate genes possibly associated with apomixis were detected through statistical analyses of the differential expression data, and several interacting genes potentially linked to the apomixis-controlling region, genes that have already been reported in the literature, and their neighbors were transcriptionally related in the coexpression network.

Conclusions

Apomixis is a highly desirable trait in modern agriculture due to the maintenance of the characteristics of the mother plant in the progeny. The reference transcriptome, candidate genes and their coexpression network identified in this work represent rich resources for future grass breeding programs.
High concentration of coagulase-negative staphylococci carriage among bioaerosols of henhouses in Central China
Authors: Lu Yuanqing , Lu Qin , Cheng Yiluo , Wen Guoyuan , Luo Qingping , Shao Huabin , Zhang Tengfei
Published: January 2020

Background

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are a group of opportunistic pathogens, which are widely spread in the environment. Animal breeding is an important source of pathogen spreading. However, the concentration and characteristics of CoNS in the bioaerosols of henhouses are unclear.

Results

In this study, we showed that CoNS were significantly increased in bioaerosols of henhouses during the first 60 days, and reached 2.0 × 106 CFU/m3, which account for 75.4% of total bacteria. One hundred and two CoNS isolates from bioaerosols and nasal swabs of farmers were further identified, covering seven species. Among these, 41.2% isolates were Staphylococcus sciuri, which was the predominant species, followed by S. equorum, S. saprophyticus, S. haemolyticus, S. xylosus, S. arlettae and S. gallinarum. There were high rates of resistance to oxacillin in CoNS (49.0%), which were defined as Methicillin-Resistant CoNS (MRCoNS), and 36.3% isolates contained resistance gene mecA. Bioaerosol infection models showed that, chickens exposed to aerosolized S. sciuri had significant induction of inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10 at 5 days post-infection (dpi) in lungs and at 7 dpi in spleens.

Conclusions

We reported a high concentration of CoNS in henhouses, and S. sciuri was the preponderant CoNS species. Antibiotic resistance analysis and bioaerosols infection of CoNS further highlighted its hazards on resistance and immunological challenge. These results suggested that, CoNS in bioaerosols could be one serious factor in the henhouses for not only poultry industry but also public health.
Efficacy of continuous epidural infusion with epidural electric stimulation compared to that of conventional continuous epidural infusion for acute herpes zoster management: a retrospective study
Authors: Lee Chung Hun , Choi Sang Sik , Lee Mi Kyoung , Lee Yeon Joo , Park Jong Sun
Published: January 2020

Background

Continuous epidural infusions are commonly used in clinical settings to reduce the likelihood of transition to postherpetic neuralgia via pain control. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of conventional continuous epidural infusion to that of continuous epidural infusion in which the catheter is guided by electric stimulation to areas with neurological damage for the treatment of zoster-related pain and prevention of postherpetic neuralgia.

Methods

We analyzed the medical records of 114 patients in this study. The patients were divided into two groups: contrast (conventional continuous epidural infusion) and stimulation (continuous epidural infusion with epidural electric stimulation). In the contrast group, the position of the epidural catheter was confirmed using contrast medium alone, whereas in the stimulation group, the site of herpes zoster infection was identified through electric stimulation using a guidewire in the catheter. Clinical efficacy was assessed using a numerical rating scale (pain score) up to 6 months after the procedures. We compared the percentage of patients who showed complete remission (pain score less than 2 and no further medication) in each group. We also investigated whether the patients required additional interventional treatment due to insufficient pain control during the 6-month follow-up period after each procedure.

Results

After adjusting for confounding variables, the pain score was significantly lower in the stimulation group than in the contrast group for 6 months after the procedure. After adjustment, the odds of complete remission were 1.9-times higher in the stimulation group than in the contrast group (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81–4.44, P = 0.14). Patients in the contrast group were significantly more likely to require other interventions within 6 months of the procedure than patients in the stimulation group (odds ratio: 3.62, 95% CI: 1.17–11.19, P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Epidural drug administration to specific spinal segments using electric stimulation catheters may be more helpful than conventional continuous epidural infusion for improving pain and preventing postherpetic neuralgia in the acute phase of herpes zoster.
Immune classification for the PD-L1 expression and tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes in colorectal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Noh Byeong-Joo , Kwak Jae Young , Eom Dae-Woon
Published: January 2020

Background

Colorectal adenocarcinoma is the third most common cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related death. The recent emergence of diverse immunotherapeutic agents has made it crucial to interpret a complex tumour microenvironment intermingled with tumour-infiltrating immune cells to predict the immunotherapeutic response rate. However, in colorectal adenocarcinoma, studies are lacking that provide detailed analyses of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) to elucidate their prognostic values and to identify immunotherapy-targetable subgroups, preferably with multiple immune-related biomarkers. In the present study, we categorize colorectal adenocarcinomas into four types of tumour immune microenvironments according to PD-L1 expression and TIL, analyse their prognostic values, and propose an immunotherapy-targetable subgroup.

Methods

Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples of surgically resected primary colorectal adenocarcinomas (n = 489) were obtained and arrayed on tissue microarray blocks. Immunohistochemical stains for PD-L1, programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), cluster of differentiation 8 (CD8), and deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) were performed and evaluated.

Results

Tumour microenvironment immune type (TMIT) I (PD-L1-positive tumour cells and CD8-high TIL) and type II (PD-L1-negative tumour cells and CD8-low TIL) showed the best and worst prognoses, respectively. PD-L1 overexpression was significantly associated with dMMR status. PD-L1 immunoreactivity was positively correlated with TIL having CD8 or PD-1 overexpression.

Conclusions

TMIT I subgroup showed stronger CD8/PD-L1/PD-1 signalling interaction compared to the other TMIT. Therefore, we propose that the TMIT I subgroup is a candidate TMIT to predict effective response rate for existing immune checkpoint inhibitors and determine targetable subgroups for emerging therapies.
Online self-compassion training to improve the wellbeing of youth with chronic medical conditions: protocol for a randomised control trial
Authors: Finlay-Jones Amy , Boyes Mark , Perry Yael , Sirois Fuschia , Lee Rachael , Rees Clare
Published: January 2020

Background

Chronic medical conditions (CMCs) affect up to 35% of children and adolescents. Youth with chronic medical conditions are at an increased risk of psychological distress and reduced health-related quality of life, and report rates of mental illness up to double that of their physically healthy peers. Accessible, evidence-based interventions for young people with chronic illness are urgently required to improve their mental health and daily functioning. Self-compassion involves taking a mindful, accepting approach to difficult experiences, being aware that one is not alone in one’s suffering, and being kind and understanding with oneself during challenging times. Self-compassion shares strong associations with mental health outcomes among young people and preliminary work indicates that interventions that build self-compassion have the potential to substantially improve youth mental health. Self-compassion is also associated with better physical and mental health outcomes among individuals living with CMCs. While face-to-face self-compassion training is available, there are several barriers to access for youth with CMCs. Online self-compassion training potentially offers an accessible alternative for this high-risk group.

Methods

Self-Compassion Online (SCO) is a self-compassion program that has been tested with a non-clinical adult group. For the proposed trial, a reference group of youth (16–25 years) with chronic illness reviewed the program and proposed adaptations to improve its suitability for youth with chronic illness. In alignment with the SPIRIT Checklist, this paper outlines the protocol for a CONSORT-compliant, single-blind randomised controlled trial to test the efficacy of the adapted program, relative to a waitlist control, for improving self-compassion, wellbeing, distress, emotion regulation, coping and quality of life among young Australians with CMCs. Mechanisms of action and feasibility of SCO will be analysed using quantitative data and participant interviews, respectively. Finally, cost-utility will be analysed using health-related quality of life data.

Discussion

The SCO program could provide a scalable solution for improving psychological outcomes and quality of life among youth with chronic illness. The proposed trial will be the first to determine its efficacy for improving these outcomes, relative to waitlist control.

Trial registration

The trial was registered on the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry on the 11th April 2019, ACTRN12619000572167.

Protocol version: Version 2, 21 December 2019.
Studying the urine microbiome in superficial bladder cancer: samples obtained by midstream voiding versus cystoscopy
Authors: Hourigan Suchitra K. , Zhu Wei , S.W.Wong Wendy , Clemency Nicole C. , Provenzano Marina , Vilboux Thierry , Niederhuber John E. , Deeken John , Chung Simon , McDaniel-Wiley Kim , Trump Donald
Published: January 2020

Background

Preliminary data suggest that the urinary microbiome may play a role in bladder cancer. Information regarding the most suitable method of collecting urine specimens is needed for the large population studies needed to address this. To compare microbiome metrics resulting from 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing between midstream, voided specimens and those obtained at cystoscopy.

Methods

Adults, with a history of superficial urothelial cell carcinoma (non-muscle invasive bladder cancer) being followed with periodic surveillance cystoscopy had a urine sample collected by a mid-stream, voided technique and then from the bladder at cystoscopy. Urine samples underwent 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing on the Illumina MiSeq platform.

Results

22 subjects (8 female, 14 male) were included. There was no significant difference in beta diversity (diversity between samples) in all samples between collection methods. However, analysis by sex revealed a difference between voided and cystoscopy samples from the same individual in males (p = 0.006, Adonis test) but not in females (p = 0.317, Adonis test). No differences were seen by collection method in any alpha diversity (diversity within a sample) measurement or differential abundance of taxa.

Conclusions

Beta diversity of the urine microbiome did differ by collection method for males only. This suggests that the urinary microbiomes of the two collection methods are not equivalent to each other, at least in males, which is the sex that bladder cancer occurs most frequently in. Therefore, the same collection method within a given study should be used.
Exploring barriers to seeking health care among Kenyan Somali women with female genital mutilation: a qualitative study
Authors: Kimani Samuel , Kabiru Caroline W. , Muteshi Jacinta , Guyo Jaldesa
Published: January 2020

Background

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is a cultural practice associated with health consequences, women rights and deprivation of dignity. Despite FGM/C-related health consequences, circumcised women may encounter additional challenges while seeking interventions for reproductive health problems. Experiences of women/girls while accessing health services for reproductive health problems including FGM/C-related complications in poor, remote and hard to reach areas is poorly understood. We sought to explore barriers to care seeking among Somali women with complications related to FGM/C in public health facilities in Kenya.

Methods

We drew on qualitative data collected from purposively selected women aged 15–49 years living with FGM/C, their partners, community leaders, and health providers in Nairobi and Garissa Counties. Data were collected using in-depth interviews (n = 10), key informant interviews (n = 23) and 20 focus group discussions. Data were transcribed and analyzed thematically using NVivo version 12.

Results

Barriers were grouped into four thematic categories. Structural barriers to care-seeking, notably high cost of care, distance from health facilities, and lack of a referral system. Concerns regarding perceived quality of care also presented a barrier. Women questioned health professionals’ and health facilities’ capacity to offer culturally-sensitive FGM/C-specific care, plus ensuring confidentiality and privacy. Women faced socio-cultural barriers while seeking care particularly cultural taboos against discussing matters related to sexual health with male clinicians. Additionally, fear of legal sanctions given the anti-FGM/C law deterred women with FGM/C-related complications from seeking healthcare.

Conclusion

Structural, socio-cultural, quality of service, and legal factors limit health seeking for reproductive health problems including FGM/C-related complications. Strengthening health system should consider integration of FGM/C-related interventions with existing maternal child health services for cost effectiveness, efficiency and quality care. The interventions should address health-related financial, physical and communication barriers, while ensuring culturally-sensitive and confidential care.
Lessons learned, challenges and outlooks for decision-making after a decade of experience monitoring the impact of indoor residual spraying in Benin, West Africa
Authors: Akogbéto Martin C. , Dagnon Fortuné , Aïkpon Rock , Ossé Razaki , Salako Albert S. , Ahogni Idelphonse , Akinro Bruno , Sominahouin André , Sidick Aboubakar , Tokponnon Filémon , Padonou Germain G.
Published: January 2020

Background

Since 2008, Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) has been performed in Benin in 19 districts, including 4 in southern Benin, 9 in Atacora, and 8 in Atacora, Alibori and Donga in northern Benin. However, Benin still struggles with questions about IRS cost–benefit and epidemiological impact. Lessons learned and challenges from 10 years of IRS in Benin to be shared with the stakeholders involved in vector control implementation for decision-making.

Methods

Entomological parameters have been assessed entomological parameters in IRS communes since 2008. In all IRS intervention communes, decreases in human biting rate (HBR) of Anopheles gambiae, blood feeding inhibition and entomological inoculation rate (EIR) as compared to control district have been measured.

Results

EIR was reduced by 80–90%, which is encouraging, but should be observed with caution because: (i) the reduction may be insufficient to decrease epidemiological indicators given that the residual EIR in IRS districts is still higher than it is in some regions of stable malaria; (ii) the reduction in EIR is based on comparisons with control communes, but it is difficult to select control areas with the same environmental characteristics as intervention areas; (iii) despite the reduction, half of all mosquitoes that entered IRS-treated houses succeeded in taking human blood meals. Further, there are behaviours among Benin’s population that limit IRS efficacy, including recent data showing that > 90% of people are not protected by IRS between 7 and 10 p.m. This is due to the fact that they remain outdoors and that most people are not protected from mosquito bites after 10 p.m. because they either sleep outdoors without IRS protection or indoors without an ITN. Moreover, people have large amounts of clothing hanging on walls where mosquitoes can rest instead of IRS-treated walls. Finally, other components are important to consider in implementing IRS among which: (i) Vector resistance management strategies are sometimes poorly understood; this is actually different from the need to replace one insecticide with another after the emergence of resistance; (ii) African countries should prepare to finance IRS themselves.

Conclusion

To curtail residual malaria transmission, additional interventions able to target vectors escaping IRS should be prioritized.
Child health, household environment, temperature and rainfall anomalies in Honduras: a socio-climate data linked analysis
Authors: Bradatan Cristina , Dennis Jeffrey A. , Flores-Yeffal Nadia , Swain Sharmistha
Published: January 2020

Background

As climate research continues to highlight the global shifts in temperature and precipitation, more research is needed to understand how climate anomalies impact human health outcomes. In this paper, we analyze one of the paths through which climate anomalies affect health (in particular, child’s health) within one of poorest countries in the world (Honduras).

Methods

Using the GPS location of the household, we link information on child health and house amenities from the Honduras Demographic Health Survey 2011–2012 dataset (a nationally representative sample) with climate data (1981–2012) from the Climate Research Unit (CRU TS3.21). We use generalized estimating equations for binary logistic models and spatial association to analyze these data.

Results

We show that 1) areas experiencing significant temperature anomalies are also the ones with the worst child respiratory problems and 2) in households with poor amenities – such as access to sanitation and clean water, children tend to have a high incidence of respiratory diseases and diarrhea .

Conclusions

We conclude that, as climate change increases the incidence of climate anomalies, tackling in advance those household environmental factors responsible for poor child health outcomes (better sanitation and clean cooking fuel) can prevent a further deterioration of children’s health in Honduras.
Microbiota in vaginal health and pathogenesis of recurrent vulvovaginal infections: a critical review
Authors: Kalia Namarta , Singh Jatinder , Kaur Manpreet
Published: January 2020

Recurrent vulvovaginal infections (RVVI) has not only become an epidemiological and clinical problem but also include large social and psychological consequences. Understanding the mechanisms of both commensalism and pathogenesis are necessary for the development of efficient diagnosis and treatment strategies for these enigmatic vaginal infections. Through this review, an attempt has been made to analyze vaginal microbiota (VMB) from scratch and to provide an update on its current understanding in relation to health and common RVVI i.e. bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiaisis and Trichomoniasis, making the present review first of its kind. For this, potentially relevant studies were retrieved from data sources and critical analysis of the literature was made. Though, culture-independent methods have greatly unfolded the mystery regarding vaginal bacterial microbiome, there are only a few studies regarding the composition and diversity of vaginal mycobiome and differentTrichomonas vaginalisstrains. This scenario suggests a need of further studies based on comparative genomics of RVVI pathogens to improve our perceptive of RVVI pathogenesis that is still not clear (Fig. 5). Besides this, the review details the rationale forLactobacillidominance and changes that occur in healthy VMB throughout a women’s life. Moreover, the list of possible agents continues to expand and new species recognised in both health and VVI are updated in this review. The review concludes with the controversies challenging the widely accepted dogma i.e. “VMB dominated withLactobacilliis healthier than a diverse VMB”. These controversies, over the past decade, have complicated the definition of vaginal health and vaginal infections with no definite conclusion. Thus, further studies on newly recognised microbial agents may reveal answers to these controversies. Conversely, VMB of women could be an answer but it is not enough to just look at the microbiology. We have to look at the woman itself, as VMB which is fine for one woman may be troublesome for others. These differences in women’s response to the same VMB may be determined by a permutation of behavioural, cultural, genetic and various other anonymous factors, exploration of which may lead to proper definition of vaginal health and disease.
Circular RNA MAPK4 (circ-MAPK4) inhibits cell apoptosis via MAPK signaling pathway by sponging miR-125a-3p in gliomas
Authors: He Jiehua , Huang Zuoyu , He Mingliang , Liao Jianyou , Zhang Qianqian , Wang Shengwen , Xie Lin , Ouyang Leping , Koeffler H. Phillip , Yin Dong , Liu Anmin
Published: January 2020

Background

Recent evidences have shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are frequently dysregulated and play paramount roles in various cancers. circRNAs are abundant in central nervous system (CNS); however, few studies describe the clinical significance and role of circRNAs in gliomas, which is the most common and aggressive primary malignant tumor in the CNS.

Methods

A bioinformatics analysis was performed to profile and screen the dyregulated circRNAs during early neural development. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of circ-MAPK4 and target miRNAs. Glioma cells were transfected with circ-MAPK4 siRNAs, then cell proliferation, apoptosis, transwell assays, as well as tumorigenesis and TUNEL assays, were performed to examine effect of circ-MAPK4 in vitroand vivo. Biotinylated-circ-MAPK4 probe based pull-down assay was conducted to confirm the relationship between circ-MAPK4 and miR-125-3p.

Results

In this study, we identified a circRNA, circ-MAPK4 (has_circ_0047688), which was downregulated during early neural differentiation. In gliomas, circ-MAPK4 acted as an oncogene, was inversely upregulated and linked to clinical pathological stage of gliomas (P < 0.05). Next, we verified that circ-MAPK4 promoted the survival and inhibited the apoptosis of glioma cells in vitroandin vivo. Furthermore, we proved that circ-MAPK4 was involved in regulating p38/MAPK pathway, which affected glioma proliferation and apoptosis. Finally, miR-125a-3p, a miRNA exhibited tumor-suppressive function through impairing p38/MAPK pathway, which was increased by inhibiting circ-MAPK4 and could be pulled down by circ-MAPK4. Inhibition of miR-125a-3p could partly rescue the increased phosphorylation levels of p38/MAPK and the elevated amount of apoptosis inducing by knockdown of circ-MAPK4.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that circ-MAPK4 is a critical player in glioma cell survival and apoptosis via p38/MAPK signaling pathway through modulation of miR-125a-3p, which can serve as a new therapeutic target for treatment of gliomas.
Size-isolation of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles improves MRI, MPI and hyperthermia performance
Authors: Dadfar Seyed Mohammadali , Camozzi Denise , Darguzyte Milita , Roemhild Karolin , Varvarà Paola , Metselaar Josbert , Banala Srinivas , Straub Marcel , Güvener Nihan , Engelmann Ulrich , Slabu Ioana , Buhl Miriam , van Leusen Jan , Kögerler Paul , Hermanns-Sachweh Benita , Schulz Volkmar , Kiessling Fabian , Lammers Twan
Published: January 2020

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) are extensively used for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic particle imaging (MPI), as well as for magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH). We here describe a sequential centrifugation protocol to obtain SPION with well-defined sizes from a polydisperse SPION starting formulation, synthesized using the routinely employed co-precipitation technique. Transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering and nanoparticle tracking analyses show that the SPION fractions obtained upon size-isolation are well-defined and almost monodisperse. MRI, MPI and MFH analyses demonstrate improved imaging and hyperthermia performance for size-isolated SPION as compared to the polydisperse starting mixture, as well as to commercial and clinically used iron oxide nanoparticle formulations, such as Resovist® and Sinerem®. The size-isolation protocol presented here may help to identify SPION with optimal properties for diagnostic, therapeutic and theranostic applications.
Carbon nanoparticles enhance potassium uptake via upregulating potassium channel expression and imitating biological ion channels in BY-2 cells
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Yang Jinchu , Li Xiang , Liang Taibo , Nie Cong , Xie Fuwei , Liu Kejian , Peng Xiaojun , Xie Jianping
Published: January 2020

Background

Carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) have been reported to boost plant growth, while the mechanism that CNPs enhanced potassium uptake for plant growth has not been reported so far.

Results

In this study, the function that CNPs promoted potassium uptake in BY-2 cells was established and the potassium accumulated in cells had a significant correlation with the fresh biomass of BY-2 cells. The K+ accumulation in cells increased with the increasing concentration of CNPs. The K+ influx reached high level after treatment with CNPs and was significantly higher than that of the control group and the negative group treated with K+ channels blocker, tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA+). The K+ accumulation was not reduced in the presence of CNPs inhibitors. In the presence of potassium channel blocker TEA+ or CNPs inhibitors, the NKT1 gene expression was changed compared with the control group. The CNPs were found to preferentially transport K+ than other cations determined by rectification of ion current assay (RIC) in a conical nanocapillary.

Conclusions

These results indicated that CNPs upregulated potassium gene expression to enhance K+ accumulation in BY-2 cells. Moreover, it was speculated that the CNPs simulated protein of ion channels via bulk of carboxyl for K+ permeating. These findings will provide support for improving plant growth by carbon nanoparticles.
Unravelling Functional Neurology: an overview of all published documents by FR Carrick, including a critical review of research articles on its effect or benefit
Authors: Demortier Marine , Leboeuf-Yde Charlotte
Published: January 2020

Background

Functional Neurology (FN), founded by FR Carrick, is an approach used by some chiropractors to treat a multitude of conditions via the nervous system including the brain. However, it seems to lack easily obtainable scientific evidence for its clinical validity.

Objectives

1) To define the topics of FR Carrick’s publications, 2) to define the proportion of articles that are research studies, case studies, abstracts and conference papers, 3) to define how many of these are clinical research studies that purported or appeared to deal with the effect or benefit of FN, 4) in these studies, to establish whether the design and overall study method were suitable for research into the effect or benefit of FN, and 5) to describe the evidence available in relation to the clinical effect or benefit of FN, taking into account seven minimal methodological criteria.

Method

A literature search was done on Pubmed from its inception till October 2018, supplemented by a search on Scopus and ResearchGate to find all published documents by FR Carrick. We identified their types and topics, retaining for a critical review full text scientific articles appearing to test effect/benefit of FN procedures, subjecting them to a basic quality assessment (scoring 0–7). Results from studies of methodologically acceptable standard would be taken into account.

Results

We found 121 published texts, 39 of which were full scientific research articles. Of these, 23 dealt with topics relating to FN. Fourteen articles reported on clinical validity but only seven included a control group. The methodological quality of these seven articles was low, ranging between 1.5–4 out of 7. We therefore did not further report the outcomes of these studies.

Conclusion

We found no acceptable evidence in favour of effect/benefit of the FN approach. We therefore do not recommend its promotion as an evidence-based method. Further research on this topic should be conducted in collaboration with independent scientific institutions using commonly accepted research methods.

Trial registration

PROSPERO This review was registered in PROSPERO (application date 23.02.2019; no CRD42019126345).
Bleeding complications after cardiac surgery, before anticoagulation start and then with argatroban or heparin in the early postoperative setting
Authors: Klingele Matthias , Enkel Julia , Speer Timo , Bomberg Hagen , Baerens Lea , Schäfers Hans-Joachim
Published: January 2020

Objectives

After elective cardiac surgery a postoperative anticoagulation is obligatory. With critically ill patients the conventional anticoagulation standard heparin is sometimes impossible, e.g. based on HIT II. Then, argatroban is currently a possible alternative, however, due to its impaired metabolism in critically ill patients, anticoagulation effect is harder to anticipate, thus resulting in higher bleeding risk. Furthermore, to date no antidote is available. Hence, severe postoperative bleeding incidents under anticoagulation are commonly mono-causal attributed to the anticoagulation itself. This study concentrates on the number of well-defined postoperative bleeding incidents before any anticoagulation started, then actually under argatroban as well as compared to those under heparin (or switched from heparin to argatroban).

Material and methods

Retrospective study including 215 patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery with a postoperative stay in ICU ≥48 h. Postoperative bleeding complications before and after start of anticoagulation were evaluated. Definition of bleeding complications were: decrease of hemoglobin by more than 2 g/dl without dilution (mean value of volume balance plus one standard deviation) and/or increased need of red blood cell transfusion/day (average transfusion rate + 2 standard deviations).

Results

Within the study group of 215 patients, 143 were treated with heparin, 43 with argatroban, 29 switched from heparin to argatroban. Overall, 26.5% (57/215) postoperative bleeding complications occurred. In 54.4% (31/57) bleeding complications occurred before start of anticoagulation; in 43.6% (26/57) after. Of these, 14 bleeding incidents occurred under heparin 9.8% (14/143), 6 under argatroban 14% (6/43) and 6 switched 20.7% (6/29). Higher bleeding complications before start of anticoagulation was related to concomitant factors influencing the overall bleeding risk; e.g. score of severity of illness. These observations further correlate with postoperative, but not anticoagulation induced mortality rate of 2.8% of then given heparin, 20.9% then argatroban, 20.7% then switched.

Conclusions

Postoperative bleeding complications cannot simply be attributed to anticoagulation since occurring often before anticoagulation was started. The risk for bleeding complications after start of anticoagulation was quite comparable for argatroban and heparin. Accordingly, the influence of argatroban on bleeding complications in the postoperative period may be less significant than previously thought.
Depressive symptoms in Fabry disease: the importance of coping, subjective health perception and pain
Authors: Körver Simon , Geurtsen Gert J. , Hollak Carla E. M. , van Schaik Ivo N. , Longo Maria G. F. , Lima Marjana R. , Vedolin Leonardo , Dijkgraaf Marcel G. W. , Langeveld Mirjam
Published: January 2020

Background

Despite the high prevalence of depressive symptoms in Fabry disease (FD), it is unclear which patient characteristics are important in relation to these symptoms. Additionally, the impact of coping styles in relation to depressive symptoms in FD has been unexplored. Determining the impact of different factors relating to depressive symptoms in FD can guide both prevention and treatment of these symptoms.

Methods

Depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CESD)) and coping styles (Utrecht Coping List) were assessed in a Dutch FD cohort. Other potentially important variables were identified from FD literature and assessed in this cohort. Relations were evaluated using multiple linear models.

Results

Potentially important variables in FD literature were: pain, unemployment, health perception, being single, comorbidities and stroke. Employed coping styles were “avoidance and brooding”, “positivity and problem solving” and “seeking social support”. Thirty-one of the 81 FD patients (38%) had depressive symptoms. CESD-scores were lower in patients with better health perception and more “positivity and problem solving” and higher in patients with more pain and “avoidance and brooding”. The best model explained 70% (95%CI: 54–76%) of observed variance of the CESD.

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms in FD are related to pain, negative health perception and use of specific coping styles. Psychological interventions could be employed to alter coping behavior and alleviate depressive symptoms.
Merkel cell polyomavirus detected in head and neck carcinomas from Chile
Authors: Muñoz Juan P. , Blanco Rancés , Osorio Julio C. , Oliva Carolina , Diaz María José , Carrillo-Beltrán Diego , Aguayo Rebeca , Castillo Andrés , Tapia Julio C. , Calaf Gloria M. , Gaggero Aldo , Aguayo Francisco
Published: January 2020

Background

The role of human polyomaviruses (HPyVs) in epithelial tumors such as head and neck carcinomas (HNSCCs) including oral and oropharyngeal carcinomas has not been established. In this study, we evaluated for the first time the presence of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), BK human polyomavirus (BKPyV), and JC human polyomavirus (JCPyV) in HNSCCs from Chilean subjects.

Methods

One hundred and twenty HNSCCs were analyzed for the presence of MCPyV, BKPyV and JCPyV using real-time polymerase chain reaction procedures. In addition, 54 oral brushes from age- and sex-paired subjects were analyzed.

Results

Of the total of 120 HNSCCs, 15 were positive for MCPyV (12.5%). Only one case was positive for BKPyV (0.8%) and none for JCPyV (0%). In subjects without cancer, only one case (1.8%) resulted positive for MCPyV and none for JCPyV and BKPyV. MCPyV was associated with HNSCCs (p = 0.0239; OR = 7.571; 95% CI: 1.192–81.46). No association was found between age (p = 0.1996), gender (p = 0.7111) or differentiation status (p > 0.9999) and MCPyV presence in HNSCCs.

Conclusions

MCPyVs were detected in HNSCCs from Chilean patients and were not detected in oral brushes from patients without cancer. More studies are warranted for defining an etiological role and clinical/molecular consequences of these viruses in HNSCCs.
Epitranscriptomic profiling of N6-methyladenosine-related RNA methylation in rat cerebral cortex following traumatic brain injury
Authors: Yu Jiangtao , Zhang Yuxian , Ma Haoli , Zeng Rong , Liu Ruining , Wang Pengcheng , Jin Xiaoqing , Zhao Yan
Published: January 2020

Background

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent post-transcriptional modification of eukaryotic mRNA. It has been reported that there is a stimulus-dependent regulation of m6A in the mammalian central nervous system in response to sensory experience, learning, and injury. The mRNA m6A methylation pattern in rat cortex after traumatic brain injury (TBI) has not been investigated.

Results

In this study, we conducted a genome-wide profiling of mRNA m6A methylation in rat cortex via methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-Seq). After TBI, the expressions of METTL14 and FTO were significantly down-regulated in rat cerebral cortex. Using MeRIP-Seq, we identified a total of 2165 significantly changed peaks, of which 1062 were significantly up-regulated and 1103 peaks were significantly down-regulated. These m6A peaks were located across 1850 genes. The analysis of both m6A peaks and mRNA expression revealed that there were 175 mRNA significantly altered methylation and expression levels after TBI. Moreover, it was found that functional FTO is necessary to repair neurological damage caused by TBI but has no effect on the spatial learning and memory abilities of TBI rats by using FTO inhibitor FB23–2.

Conclusion

This study explored the m6A methylation pattern of mRNA after TBI in rat cortex and identified FTO as possible intervention targets in the epigenetic modification of TBI.
Preclinical efficacy for a novel tyrosine kinase inhibitor, ArQule 531 against acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Elgamal Ola A. , Mehmood Abeera , Jeon Jae Yoon , Carmichael Bridget , Lehman Amy , Orwick Shelley J. , Truxall Jean , Goettl Virginia M. , Wasmuth Ronni , Tran Minh , Mitchell Shaneice , Lapalombella Rosa , Eathiraj Sudharshan , Schwartz Brian , Stegmaier Kimberly , Baker Sharyn D. , Hertlein Erin , Byrd John C.
Published: January 2020

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common type of adult leukemia. Several studies have demonstrated that oncogenesis in AML is enhanced by kinase signaling pathways such as Src family kinases (SFK) including Src and Lyn, spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK), and bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK). Recently, the multi-kinase inhibitor ArQule 531 (ARQ 531) has demonstrated potent inhibition of SFK and BTK that translated to improved pre-clinical in vivo activity as compared with the irreversible BTK inhibitor ibrutinib in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) models. Given the superior activity of ARQ 531 in CLL, and recognition that this molecule has a broad kinase inhibition profile, we pursued its application in pre-clinical models of AML.

Methods

The potency of ARQ 531 was examined in vitro using FLT3 wild type and mutated (ITD) AML cell lines and primary samples. The modulation of pro-survival kinases following ARQ 531 treatment was determined using AML cell lines. The effect of SYK expression on ARQ 531 potency was evaluated using a SYK overexpressing cell line (Ba/F3 murine cells) constitutively expressing FLT3-ITD. Finally, the in vivo activity of ARQ 531 was evaluated using MOLM-13 disseminated xenograft model.

Results

Our data demonstrate that ARQ 531 treatment has anti-proliferative activity in vitro and impairs colony formation in AML cell lines and primary AML cells independent of the presence of a FLT3 ITD mutation. We demonstrate decreased phosphorylation of oncogenic kinases targeted by ARQ 531, including SFK (Tyr416), BTK, and fms-related tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3), ultimately leading to changes in down-stream targets including SYK, STAT5a, and ERK1/2. Based upon in vitro drug synergy data, we examined ARQ 531 in the MOLM-13 AML xenograft model alone and in combination with venetoclax. Despite ARQ 531 having a less favorable pharmacokinetics profile in rodents, we demonstrate modest single agent in vivo activity and synergy with venetoclax.

Conclusions

Our data support consideration of the application of ARQ 531 in combination trials for AML targeting higher drug concentrations in vivo.
Increased ethylene production by overexpressing phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis PCC 6803
Authors: Durall Claudia , Lindberg Pia , Yu Jianping , Lindblad Peter
Published: January 2020

Background

Cyanobacteria can be metabolically engineered to convert CO2 to fuels and chemicals such as ethylene. A major challenge in such efforts is to optimize carbon fixation and partition towards target molecules.

Results

Theefegene encoding an ethylene-forming enzyme was introduced into a strain of the cyanobacteriumSynechocystisPCC 6803 with increased phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPc) levels. The resulting engineered strain (CD-P) showed significantly increased ethylene production (10.5 ± 3.1 µg mL−1 OD−1 day−1) compared to the control strain (6.4 ± 1.4 µg mL−1 OD−1 day−1). Interestingly, extra copies of the nativepepcor the heterologous expression of PEPc from the cyanobacteriumSynechococcusPCC 7002 (Synechococcus) in the CD-P, increased ethylene production (19.2 ± 1.3 and 18.3 ± 3.3 µg mL−1 OD−1 day−1, respectively) when the cells were treated with the acetyl-CoA carboxylase inhibitor, cycloxydim. A heterologous expression of phosphoenolpyruvate synthase (PPSA) fromSynechococcusin the CD-P also increased ethylene production (16.77 ± 4.48 µg mL−1 OD−1 day−1) showing differences in the regulation of the native and the PPSA fromSynechococcusinSynechocystis.

Conclusions

This work demonstrates that genetic rewiring of cyanobacterial central carbon metabolism can enhance carbon supply to the TCA cycle and thereby further increase ethylene production.
Investigating relationship between religious commitment and moral sensitivity in nurses working in ICU
Authors: Khalighi Ebrahim , Solaimanizadeh Laleh , Borji Milad , Tarjoman Asma , Soltany Behrouz , Zareie Farzad
Published: January 2020

Objectives

This study aimed at determining the relationship between religious commitment and moral sensitivity among nurses working in the ICU sections in the west of Iran. The present study was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study carried out on nurses working in ICU wards of two western cities in Iran. The instrument used includes a demographic questionnaire, religious commitment questionnaire and moral sensitivity questionnaire in nurses. First, the researchers referred to the ICU wards of the hospitals in the cities after receiving permission from the relevant authorities by referring to three shifts in the morning, evening and night shifts and holidays. The researchers, while explaining the research goals for the nurses participating in the study, obtained their informed consent to participate in this study.

Results

According to the findings, mean (SD) of the overall score of religious commitment was equal to 36.38 (4.58) and mean (SD) of MS score of nurses was 59.21 (12.65). Also, 91 nurses (82.7%) had average MS, 7 (6.4%) had low MS and 12 (10.9%) had high MS.
Microbial extraction of chitin from seafood waste using sugars derived from fruit waste-stream
Authors: Tan Yun Nian , Lee Pei Pei , Chen Wei Ning
Published: January 2020

Chitin and chitosan are natural amino polysaccharides that have exceptional biocompatibility in a wide range of applications such as drug delivery carriers, antibacterial agents and food stabilizers. However, conventional chemical extraction methods of chitin from marine waste are costly and hazardous to the environment. Here we report a study where shrimp waste was co-fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum ATCC 14917 and Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis ATCC 6051 and chitin was successfully extracted after deproteinization and demineralization of the prawn shells. The glucose supplementation for fermentation was replaced by waste substrates to reduce cost and maximize waste utilization. A total of 10 carbon sources were explored, namely sugarcane molasses, light corn syrup, red grape pomace, white grape pomace, apple peel, pineapple peel and core, potato peel, mango peel, banana peel and sweet potato peel. The extracted chitin was chemically characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to measure the degree of acetylation, elemental analysis (EA) to measure the carbon/nitrogen ratio and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to measure the degree of crystallinity. A comparison of the quality of the crude extracted chitin was made between the different waste substrates used for fermentation and the experimental results showed that the waste substrates generally make a suitable replacement for glucose in the fermentation process. Red grape pomace resulted in recovery of chitin with a degree of deacetylation of 72.90%, a carbon/nitrogen ratio of 6.85 and a degree of crystallinity of 95.54%. These achieved values were found to be comparable with and even surpassed commercial chitin.
Dialysis membrane enclosed laccase catalysis combines a controlled conversion rate and recyclability without enzyme immobilization
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Fukun , Wang Ruiqi , Tan Xuemei , Hagedoorn Peter-Leon
Published: January 2020

Laccase is a versatile multicopper oxidase that holds great promise for many biotechnological applications. For such applications, it is essential to explore good biocatalytic systems for high activity and recyclability. The feasibility of membrane enclosed enzymatic catalysis (MEEC) for enzyme recycling with laccase was evaluated. The dialysis membrane enclosed laccase catalysis (DMELC) was tested for the conversion of the non-phenolic model substrate 2,2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS). Trametes versicolor laccase was found to be completely retained by the dialysis membrane during the process. The ABTS total conversion after DMELC reached the same values as the batch reaction of the enzyme in solution. The efficiency of DMELC conversion of ABTS under different process conditions including shaking speed, temperature, ABTS concentration and pH was investigated. The repetitive dialysis minimally affected the activity and the protein content of the enclosed laccase. DMELC retained 70.3 ± 0.8% of its initial conversion after 5 cycles. The usefulness of MEEC extends to other enzymes with the benefit of superior activity of an enzyme in solution and the recyclability which is normally only obtained with immobilized enzymes.