bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence, risk factors, phenotypic and molecular characteristics for Staphylococcus aureus carriage in community-based drug users in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Wang Yingying , Lin Jialing , Zhou Junli , Han Zhigang , Yao Zhenjiang
Published: January 2020

Background: Staphylococcus aureus ( S. aureus ), particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), remains the predominant cause of infections in drug users. This cross-sectional study aims to elucidate the prevalence, risk factors, phenotypic and molecular characteristics of S. aureus carriage among community-based drug users.
Methods: All eligible drug users, with both injection and non-injection route of drug administration , were asked to complete questionnaires and collect nasal swabs by trained personal during the period between May and December 2017 in Guangzhou, China. Swabs were processed for identification of S. aureus . Antimicrobial susceptibility test and polymerase chain reaction assays were used to detect phenotypic and molecular characteristics for identified isolates. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess risk factors for S. aureus carriage.
Results: Overall, 353 drug users were included in the study and the prevalence of S. aureus carriage was 15.01% (53/353). The prevalence of MRSA carriage was 6.80% (24/353). Cohabitation was a risk factor for S. aureus (adjusted OR=8.80, 95% CI: 1.89-40.99). The proportion of multidrug resistance was 54.72% for S. aureus isolates and most of these isolates were resistant to penicillin, erythromycin and clindamycin. Seventeen MRSA isolates were multidrug resistant. The results of clonal complexes (CCs) and sequence types (STs) for S. aureus were diverse. The three predominant types for CCs were CC5 (64.15%, 34/53), CC59 (11.32%, 6/53), and CC7 (7.55%, 4/53); and for STs were ST188 (20.75%, 11/53), ST5 (11.32%, 6/53), and ST59 (11.32%, 6/53).
Conclusion: The prevalence of S. aureus nasal carriage was lower while the prevalence of MRSA carriage was moderate compared to previous studies. Phenotypic and molecular characteristics of S. aureus isolates, particularly MRSA isolates, revealed high proportions of antibiotic resistance, indicating the existence of cross-circulation, and implying high opportunity of virulence-related diseases. Decolonization and antibiotic stewardship might be implemented for drug users with MRSA carriage.
Pre-hospital CPR and early REBOA in trauma patients - Results from the ABOTrauma Registry.
Authors: Hilbert-Carius Peter , McGreevy David T , Abu-Zidan Fikri M. , Hörer Tal M.
Published: January 2020

Background: Severely injured trauma patients suffering from traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) and requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) rarely survive. The role of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) performed early after hospital admission in patients with TCA is not well-defined. As the use of REBOA increases, there is great interest in knowing if there is a survival benefit related to the early use of REBOA after TCA. Using data from the ABOTrauma Registry, we aimed to study the role of REBOA used early after hospital admission in trauma patients who required pre-hospital CPR. Methods: Retrospective and prospective data on the use of REBOA were collected from the ABOTrauma Registry from 11 centers in seven countries globally between 2014 and 2019. In all patients with pre-hospital TCA, the predicted probability of survival, calculated with the Revised Injury Severity Classification II (RISC II), was compared with the observed survival rate. Results: Of 213 patients in the ABOTrauma Registry, 26 patients (12.2%) who had received pre-hospital CPR were identified. The median (range) Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 45.5 (25-75). Fourteen patients (54%) had been admitted to hospital with ongoing CPR. Nine patients (35%) died within the first 24 hours, while seventeen patients (65%) survived post 24 hours. The survival rate to hospital discharge was 27% (n=7). The predicted mortality using the RISC II was 0.977 (25 out of 26). The observed mortality (19 out of 26) was significantly lower than the predicted mortality (p=0.049). Patients not responding to REBOA were more likely to die. Only one (10%) out of 10 non-responders survived. Survival rate in the 16 patients responding to REBOA was 37.5% (n=6). REBOA with a median (range) duration of 45 (8-70) minutes significantly increases blood pressure from median (range) 56.5 (0-147) to 90 (0-200) mmHg. Conclusions: Mortality in patients suffering from TCA and receiving REBOA early after hospital admission is significantly lower than predicted by the RISC II. REBOA may improve survival after TCA. The use of REBOA in these patients should be further investigated.
HDAC inhibitor Givinostat targets DNA-binding of human CGGBP1
Authors: Patel Manthan , Patel Divyesh , Datta Subhamoy , Singh Umashankar
Published: January 2020

The antineoplastic agent Givinostat inhibits histone deacetylases. We present here our finding that the DNA-binding of human CGGBP1 is also inhibited by Givinostat. CGGBP1, a DNA-binding protein, is required for cancer cell proliferation. In our quest to exploit the potential anti-proliferative effects of CGGBP1 inhibition, we have developed a simple screening assay to identify chemical inhibitors of DNA-protein interactions. We have applied this screen for human CGGBP1 on a library of 1685 compounds and found that Givinostat is a direct inhibitor of CGGBP1-DNA interaction. The mechanism of action of Givinostat should thus extend beyond HDACs to include the inhibition of the myriad functions of CGGBP1 that depend on its binding to the DNA.
Effect of the Short-Segment Internal Fixation with Intermediate Inclined-Angle Screw at the Fractured Vertebrae on the Treatment of Denis type B thoracolumbar fracture
Authors: Xiong Chengjie , Huang Biwang , Wei Tanjun , Kang Hui , Xu Feng
Published: January 2020

Background Short-segment internal fixation with straight-forward screw (SSIF-SF) and long-segment internal fixation (LSIF) are two major surgical options for thoracolumbar (TL) fracture, however, limitations of two surgical options are obvious. SSIF with inclined-angle screw (SSIF-IA) have been lately developed to take advantage of their benefits and minimize their adverse effects. METHODS Three different treatments were randomly performed in 69 consecutive TL fracture. 26 were allocated to treatment with SSIF–IA, 24 were assigned to treatment with SSIF–SF, 19 patients were randomized to treatment with LSIF. Sagittal Cobb’s angle (SCA), anterior vertebral body height (AVBH), vertebral body index (VBI) and spinal canal encroachment (SCE) were measured and assessed. Functional recovery Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were also evaluated. RESULTS The value of incision length, mean blood loss, duration of operation and hospital stay in the SSIF–IA group and SSIF-SF group were significantly lower than those in the LSIF group. During 6 months and the latest follow-ups, the AVBH and VBI in the SSIF-IA group and LSIF group were significantly more improved than those in the SSIF–SF group (p < 0.05). The correction losses of AVBH and VBI of the fractured vertebrae in the SSIF-IA group and LSIF group were significantly lower than those in the SSIF–SF group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference of SCA among three groups. The average ODI scores in SSIF-IA and SSIF-SF group were significantly lower than those in the LSIF group. CONCLUSIONS The bio-mechanical stability of SSIF-IA was comparable to LSIF, but less invasive as compared with LSIF. SSIF–IA was effective and reliable operative technique for patients with Denis type B TL fracture.
Global transcriptome and weighted gene co-expression network analyses of growth-stage-specific and hybrid-cultivar-specific drought stress responses in maize
Authors: Liu Songtao , Zenda Tinashe , Jin Hongyu , Liu Guo , Wang Xuan , Dong Anyi , Yang Yatong , Duan Huijun
Published: January 2020

Background Drought is the major abiotic stress threatening maize ( Zea mays L.) production globally. Therefore, deciphering the molecular basis of maize drought tolerance remains pertinent. Results Here, through a comprehensive comparative leaf transcriptome analysis of drought-tolerant hybrid ND476 plants subjected to water-sufficient (control) and water-deficit (drought) treatment conditions at four (V12, VT, R1, and R4) crop growth stages, we report key cultivar-specific and growth-stage-specific molecular mechanisms regulating drought stress responses in maize. Based on the transcriptome analysis, a total of 3451 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from the four experimental comparisons, with 2403, 650, 397 and 313 DEGS observed at the V12, VT, R1, and R4 stages, respectively. The expression changes in these genes effected corresponding metabolic pathway responses related to drought tolerance in maize. Subsequently, 3451 DEGs were divided into 12 modules by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), comprising 277 hub genes covering drought-responsive genes involved in water-deficit stress and developmental signaling crosstalk. Interestingly, the co-expressed genes that clustered into similar modules exhibited diverse expression tendencies and got annotated to different GO terms at different stages. MapMan analysis revealed that DEGs related to stress signal transduction, detoxification, transcription factor regulation, hormone signaling and secondary metabolites biosynthesis were universal across the four growth stages. However, the DEGs associated with photosynthesis and amino acid metabolism; protein degradation; transport; and RNA transcriptional regulation were uniquely enriched at the V12, VT, R2, and R4 stages, respectively. Conclusions Our results affirmed that maize drought stress adaptation is a whole-plant response as well as a stage-specific response process. We hope that our findings will aid in clarifying the fundamental cultivar-specific and growth-stage-specific molecular mechanisms regulating drought stress responses in maize. In addition, the genes and metabolic pathways identified here can be valuable genetic resources or selection targets for developing new drought resistant maize cultivars.
Comparative phosphoproteome analysis to identify candidate phosphoproteins involved in blue light-induced brown film formation in Lentinula edodes
Authors: Song Tingting , Shen Yingyue , Jin Qunli , Feng Weilin , Fan Lijun , Cai Weiming
Published: January 2020

BackgroundLight plays an important role in the growth and differentiation of Lentinula edodes mycelia, and mycelial morphology is influenced by light wavelengths. The blue light-induced formation of brown film on the vegetative mycelial tissues of L. edodes is an important process. However, the mechanisms of L. edodes’ brown film formation, as induced by blue light, are still unclear. Using a high-resolution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry integrated with a highly sensitive immune-affinity antibody method, phosphoproteomes of L. edodes mycelia under red- and blue-light conditions were analyzed. ResultsA total of 11,224 phosphorylation sites were identified on 2,786 proteins, of which 9,243 sites on 2,579 proteins contained quantitative information. In total, 475 sites were up-regulated and 349 sites were down-regulated in the blue vs red group. To characterize the differentially phosphorylated proteins, systematic bioinformatics analyses, including gene ontology annotations, domain annotations, subcellular localizations, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway annotations, were performed. These differentially phosphorylated proteins were correlated with light signal transduction, cell wall degradation, and melanogenesis, suggesting that these processes are involved in the formation of the brown film. ConclusionsOur study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of the blue light-induced brown film formation at the post-translational modification level.
SCC: An accurate modification method for scRNA-seq dropouts based on mixture model
Authors: zheng yan , Hu Jialu , Shang Xuequn
Published: January 2020

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has advanced in past decade, which enables gene expression analysis to be carried out at higher resolution. This technology is of great significance for exploring the dynamic development process of life, studying the regulation mechanism of genes and discovering new cell types. However, there are still some limitations in scRNA-seq technology. The primary limitation is the high noisy in scRNA-seq data. The main reason is the poor sensitivity of scRNA-seq technology. This technology only detect 5-15 percent of the mRNA molecules. Therefore, low-expression genes are difficult to detect in scRNA-seq data. The scRNA-seq data tend to be bimodal expression distribution because the expression is either strongly zero or high expression. In this paper, we proposal a method scRNA-seq complementation (SCC) to solve the dropouts in scRNA-seq data. Firstly, we find the nearest neighbor cells of every cell, and then use a mixture model to impute the dropouts of scRNA-seq data. The model can identifies the possibility of dropouts and estimates the reasonable gene expression value. The result shows that SCC significantly reduce the intra-class distance of cells and enhance the clustering of cell subpopulation, which is significant for future research on gene expression. The code is freely accessible at the website: https://github.com/nwpuzhengyan/SCC.
Protective Effects of Vitamin E on Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Miao Huikai , Li Rongzhen , Chen Dongni , Hu Jia , Chen Youfang , Wen Zhesheng
Published: January 2020

Background Chemotherapy often causes chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), but effective prevention measures are still lacking. Whether vitamin E can prevent peripheral neurotoxicity caused by chemotherapy is inconclusive. Therefore, we collected related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and conducted a meta-analysis to examine whether vitamin E could prevent CIPN. Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane databases in November 2019 for eligible trials. Two reviewers conducted the analysis independently when studies were homogeneous enough. Results Eight RCTs, involving 555 patients, were identified. Upon pooling these RCTs, patients who received vitamin E supplementation of 600 mg/day had a significantly lower incidence of peripheral neuropathy (RR 0.31; 95% CI 0.14 to 0.65; P = 0.002) induced by chemotherapy compared with the placebo group. Vitamin E played a key role in decreasing the incidence of peripheral neuropathy in the cisplatin chemotherapy group (RR 0.28; 95% CI 0.14 to 0.54; P = 0.0001). With regard to improvements in sural amplitude, vitamin E supplementation significantly decreased patients’ sural amplitude after three rounds of chemotherapy (RR -2.66; 95% CI -5.09 to -0.24; P =0.03) in contrast with that of placebo supplementation, while no significant difference was observed when patients were treated with vitamin E after six rounds of chemotherapy. In addition, the vitamin E group had better improvement in the neurotoxicity score (RR -2.65; 95% CI -4.01to -1.29; P = 0.0001) and a lower incidence of reflexes and distal paraesthesias (RR 0.50; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.87; P = 0.01) compared to the control group. Conclusion Available data included in this meta-analysis showed that vitamin E supplementation can confer modest improvement in the prevention of CIPN. However, large-scale, well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm the exact role of vitamin E supplementation in the prevention of CIPN.
Study on prevalence and risk factors of falls among community-dwelling elderly adults: results from three consecutive waves of the national health interview survey in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Yih-Jian , Yang Ping-Yen , Yang Yi-Ching , Lin Mau-Roung , Wang Ying-Wei
Published: January 2020

Background An aging society incurs great losses due to fall-related injuries and mortalities. The foreseeable increased burden of injury due to falls among elderly people requires a nationwide study on the fall epidemic in Taiwan. Methods The fall epidemic was examined using data from three consecutive waves of the National Health Interview Survey (2005, 2009, and 2013). Common explanatory variables across these surveys included socio-demographic factors (age, sex, and difficulty in performing activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living), biological factors (vision, comorbidities, urinary incontinence, and depressive symptoms), and behavioral risk factors (sleeping pill use, and frequency of exercise). After univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted, the prevalence of falls was investigated using multiple linear regression models adjusted for age group, sex, and the year of survey. A multivariate logistic regression model for falls with adjustments for these common explanatory variables was established across three waves of surveys. Results For each survey, there were consecutively 2,722; 2,900; and 3,200 respondents, with a mean age of 75.1, 75.6, and 76.4 years, respectively. The multiple linear regression model yielded a negative association between the prevalence of falls and the year of survey. Several sociodemographic and biological factors, including female gender, difficulty in performing one basic ADL, difficulty in performing two or more instrumental ADLs, unclear vision, comorbidities, urinary incontinence, and depressive symptoms, were significantly associated with falls. Conclusion Although information regarding the change in fall prevalence over time supports existing fall intervention strategies in Taiwan, the identification of risk factors in the elderly may increase the effectiveness of future fall prevention programs.
Histopathological Profile of Orbito-ocular Lesions at Tertiary Hospital in Northern Malawi
Authors: Sinyiza Frank Watson , Kayira Alfred , Chisale Master R.O. , Chimbatata Chikondi Sharon , Kaseka Paul Uchizi , Kamudumuli Pocha Samuel , Wu Tsung-Shu Joseph , Mbakaya Balwani Chingatichifwe
Published: January 2020

BackgroundOrbito-ocular lesions are common cause of morbidity and mortality in our population yet, there is paucity of data on their pattern which is crucial for developing an effective strategy for prevention, timely detection and management. This study sought to describe the burden and histopathological pattern of orbito-ocular lesions at Mzuzu Central Hospital (MCH) over a period of five years (July 2013 to June 2018). MethodsA retrospective review of the clinicopathological profile of orbito-ocular lesions diagnosed at MCH was done. Demographic, clinical and histopathological data was obtained from original histology reports. Data analysis was conducted using Stata, version 13.0 (Stata Corp. LP, College Station, TX, United States of America). Descriptive analyses were performed to summarize patients’ sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and histopathological analysis results.ResultsTwo hundred and fourteen (214) patients’ records of orbito-ocular lesions were reviewed. Patients were predominantly females 60.3%. The overall mean age was 34.81± 15.93 years. Conjunctiva was the most common site of orbito-ocular lesion accounting for 65.0% of the cases. This was followed by lid and adnexa (16.4 %) and intraocular lesions (9.3 %). Malignant lesions were the most prevalent (39.3%), followed by degenerative conditions (25.2%), other benign lesions (15.0%), Conjunctival Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) (8.4%), pyogenic and inflammatory conditions (8.4 %). The burden of cancer among males was 45.9% while in female was 34.9%. Malignant lesions were common in HIV infected patients 64.1%. There was bimodal distribution of orbito-ocular malignancies, one in the first decade of life and the other in third and fourth decade of life. Among cancers cases (84), squamous cell carcinoma, retinoblastoma, Kaposi Sarcoma and lymphoma contributed to 82.1%, 8.3%, 2.4% and 1.2% respectively. Kaposi sarcoma was found only in patient with HIV infection.ConclusionCancer constituted a substantial proportion of orbito-ocular lesions in our study population with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common malignancy in adults and retinoblastoma in children. Degenerative disease contributed a high proportion of non-malignant lesions. Therefore, there is need for appropriate strategies to improve preventive, diagnostic and management capacity for orbito-ocular lesions at MCH.
Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging in Peripheral Ulcerative Keratitis. A Corneal Structural Description
Authors: BONNET Clemence , Debillon Louis , Al-Hashimi Saba , Hoogewoud Florence , Monnet Dominique , Bourges Jean-Louis , Brézin Antoine
Published: January 2020

Background: Anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) is an important tool, helpful to diagnose and manage many corneal conditions, but has not been reported in cases of peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK). The aim of this study is to describe AS-OCT findingsin cases of PUK.Methods: Retrospective observational case series of six eyes with a PUK with proven systemic vasculitis. Clinical course, slit-lamp photographs, and AS-OCT findings were the main outcomes.Results: The AS-OCT findings were found to correlate with the ocular disease’s level of activity. In the acute stage, an absence of corneal epithelium, a scrambled appearance of the anterior stroma and a heterogeneous stromal reflectivity were observed. During the reduction of disease level activity, an irregular hyporeflective epithelium, a smoother anterior stroma, and a homogenous hyperreflective stroma were seen. At the healed stage, a filling of the corneal defect by a hyporeflective thick epithelium, the persistence of the hyperreflective underlying stroma, and a demarcation line were observed.Conclusions: AS-OCT provides an assessment of structural changes occurring in PUK, useful for its diagnosis and monitoring.
Low doses of Bisphenol S affect post-translational modifications of sperm proteins in male mice
Authors: Řimnáčová Hedvika , Štiavnická Miriam , Moravec Jiří , Chemek Marouane , Kolinko Yaroslav , García-Álvarez Olga , Mouton Peter R. , Trejo Azalia Mariel Carranza , Fenclová Tereza , Eretová Nikola , Hošek Petr , Klein Pavel , Králíčková Milena , Petr Jaroslav , Nevoral Jan
Published: January 2020

Background: Bisphenol S (BPS) is increasingly used as a replacement for bisphenol A in the manufacture of products containing polycarbonates and epoxy resins. However, further studies of BPS exposure are needed for the assessment of health risks to humans. In this study we assessed the potential harmfulness of low-dose BPS on reproduction in male mice.Methods: To simulate human exposure under experimental conditions, 8-week-old outbred ICR male mice received 8 weeks of drinking water containing a broad range of BPS doses [0.001, 1.0, or 100 µg/kg body weight (bw)/day, BPS1-3] or vehicle control. Mice were sacrificed and testicular tissue taken for histological analysis and protein identification by nano-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (MS) and sperm collected for immunodetection of acetylated lysine and phosphorylated tyrosine followed by protein characterisation using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation time-of-flight MS (MALDI-TOF MS).Results: The results indicate that compared to vehicle, 100 µg/kg/day exposure (BPS3) leads to 1) significant histopathology in testicular tissue; and, 2) higher levels of the histone protein γH2AX, a reliable marker of DNA damage. There were fewer mature spermatozoa in the germ layer in the experimental group treated with 1 µg/kg bw (BPS2). Finally, Western blot and MALDI-TOF MS studies showed significant alterations in the sperm acetylome and phosphorylome in mice treated with the lowest (BPS1) exposure (0.001 µg/kg/day).Conclusions: In summary, this range of qualitative and quantitative findings in young male mice raise the possibility that relatively low doses of BPS may impair mammalian reproduction through epigenetic modifications of sperm proteins.
Validation of the AUDIT scale and factors associated with alcohol use disorder in adolescents: results of a national Lebanese study
Authors: Hallit Jennyfer , Salameh Pascale , Haddad Chadia , Sacre Hala , Soufia Michel , Akel Marwan , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Rabih , Hallit Souheil
Published: January 2020

Background This study objective was to evaluate the prevalence as well as factors (smoking, internet addiction, social phobia, depression, child abuse and bullying) associated with alcohol use disorder among a representative sample of Lebanese young people, in addition to validating and confirming psychometric properties of the AUDIT scale. Methods A cross-sectional study, conducted between January and May 2019, enrolled 1810 adolescents aged between 14 and 17. Alcohol dependence was defined as a high AUDIT score. A principal component analysis technique to confirm the validity of the construct of the AUDIT scale score was done and a confirmatory analysis to assess the structure of the instrument was conducted. Results The mean AUDIT score was 6.46 ± 8.44 and high risk of hazardous alcohol drinking was found in 28% of adolescents. One factor solution of the AUDIT scale had been found after running the factor analysis and the confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated that the χ2/df=2.4, the Steiger-Lind RMSEA was 0.10 [0.084-0.155] and the Joreskog GFI equaled 0.91 and AGFI equaled 0.92. Higher cigarette (Beta=0.372) and waterpipe (Beta=0.319) dependence, higher child sexual (Beta=0.581) and neglect (Beta=0.106) abuse, higher internet addiction (Beta=0.088), separated parents compared to living together (Beta=3.202) and higher bullying victimization (Beta=0.143) were significantly associated with higher AUDIT scores. Conclusion Alcohol dependence seems to be influenced by several risk factors among the Lebanese adolescents such as cigarette and waterpipe dependence, higher internet addiction, bullying, and child sexual and neglect abuse. Parents and healthcare professionals could use this data to influence intervention efforts.
Invasive growth of Aspergillus oryzae in rice koji and increase of nuclear number
Authors: Yasui Mizuki , Oda Ken , Masuo Shunsuke , Katayama Takuya , Maruyama Jun-ichi , Takaya Naoki , Takeshita Norio
Published: January 2020

‘Rice koji ’ is a solid culture of Aspergillus oryzae on steamed rice grains. Multiple parallel fermentation, wherein saccharification of rice by A. oryzae and alcohol fermentation by the budding yeast occur simultaneously, lead to the formation of a variety of ingredients of Japanese sake. In sake brewing, the degree of mycelial invasive growth into the steamed rice, called ‘haze-komi’, highly correlates with the digestibility and quality of rice koji, since the hyphae growing into the rice secrete amylases and digest starch of rice. In this study, we investigated mycelial distribution of GFP-tagged A. oryzae in rice koji made with different types of rice, such as sake rice and eating rice, with 50 or 90% polishing rate to remove abundant proteins and lipids near the surface. In addition, we compared transcriptomes of A. oryzae in the different types of rice koji. Finally, we found that A. oryzae increases the nuclear number and hyphal width in the course of 1-3 days cultivation. That characteristic could be corelated with the secretory capacity of several enzymes, and be an important selectively acquired characteristic during the breeding in long history.
Molecular characterization of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase: do single nucleotide polymorphisms affect hematological parameters in HIV positive patients?
Authors: Danquah Kwabena Owusu , Mensah Kofi , Nkansah Charles , Appiah Samuel Kwasi , Noagbe Mark , Hardy Yasmine , Ntiamoah David O. , Boateng Lillian Antwi , Annani-Akollor Max Efui , Owiredu Eddie-Williams , Debrah Alexander Yaw , Addai-Mensah Otchere
Published: January 2020

Objectives: This descriptive, cross-sectional study aimed at evaluating the prevalence of G6PD deficiency, the 376A → G, 202G → A single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among HIV patients attending care at a teaching hospital in Ghana and determine if the SNPs are associated with a deranged hematological profile. Results: Out of the 200 participants, 13.0% (26/200) were G6PD deficient based on the methemoglobin reductase technique, with 1.5% (3/200) and 11.5% (23/200) presenting with partial and full enzyme defect, respectively. Among the 13.0% participants with G6PD deficiency, 19.2% (5/26), 30.8% (8/26), and 19.2% (5/26) presented with 376A → G only [Enzyme activity (EA): 1.19 U/g Hb], 202G → A only [EA: 1.41 U/g Hb], and G202/A376 SNPs [EA: 1.14 U/g Hb], respectively. Having the 376A → G mutation was associated with lower red blood cell (RBC) count [3.38 x106/µL (3.16-3.46) vs 3.95 x106/µL (3.53-4.41), p=0.010], but higher mean cell volume (MCV) [102.90 (99.40-113.0) vs 91.10 fL (84.65-98.98), p=0.041] and mean cell hemoglobin (MCH) [33.70 pg (32.70-38.50) vs 30.75 pg (28.50-33.35), p=0.038] whereas possessing the 202G → A mutation was associated with higher MCV only [98.90 fL (90.95-102.35) vs 91.10 fL (84.65-98.98), p=0.041] compared to G6PD non-deficient participants.
Efficacy and safety of HX 110-A and HX 110-B in promoting respiratory health: An 8-week, randomized, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Lee Jung-Kyu , Oh Bumjo , Yoon Seo-Young , Park Tae Yun , Heo Eun Young , Kim Deog Kyeom
Published: January 2020

Background HX110-A and HX110-B are compound extracts based on radix adenophorae and rhizoma dioscoreae, respectively, which have anti-inflammatory activity. There are limited data on whether they may help improve respiratory conditions including lung function. Therefore, in this trial, we will evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the use of HX110-A and HX110-B for the treatment of respiratory health in adults with mild respiratory symptoms. Methods/design This will be an 8-week, randomized, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled trial with three arms. Adults more than 40 years old with persistent respiratory symptoms will be enrolled. Patients with definite respiratory disease or with a history of recent intake of antioxidants or anti-inflammatory agents will be excluded. Study subjects will be assigned at a 1:1:1 ratio into the following three arms: controls, experimental group 1 (HX110-A), and experimental group 2 (HX110-B). Control or experimental foods will be administered for 8 weeks, and follow-up will be up to 12 weeks. The primary outcome will be total antioxidant capacity. Secondary outcomes will be inflammatory indexes, respiratory symptoms, lung function, quality of life, and fatigue level. Safety outcomes will be assessed by monitoring adverse events and vital signs, and through clinical pathology tests. Conclusion We hope that this trial will reveal the effectiveness and safety of HX110-A and/or HX110-B for medical purposes in adults with respiratory symptoms. The results should clarify if active intake of specific foods with these functional compounds may promote respiratory health in adults without definite respiratory disease.
Help seeking, trust and gender-based violence: social connections amongst displaced and non-displaced Yezidi women and men in the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq
Authors: Strang Alison , O’Brien Oonagh , Sandilands Maggie , Horn Rebecca
Published: January 2020

Background Conflict and displacement impact the social fabric of communities through both the disruption of social connections and the erosion of trust. Targeted humanitarian assistance requires understanding the continuing forms of social capital that shape patterns of help seeking in these circumstances. This is especially pertinent with issues such as gender-based violence (GBV) where trust and knowledge of support are major influences on accessing assistance. Methods A novel social mapping methodology was adopted amongst a Yezidi population displaced by ISIS 1 occupation and a neighbouring settled Yezidi population in the Kurdistan region of northern Iraq in late 2016. Six participatory workshops were conducted to identify available resources. Subsequently, 51 individual interviews were conducted (segmented by gender and settlement status) to identify connectedness to, and trust in, the resources identified with respect to particular issues, including GBV. Results 90% of participants independently reported God as a key source of help in the previous six months, representing the most widely cited resource. Otherwise, familial and community resources were reported for all groups as the most accessed and trusted, with NGO (non-governmental organisation) provision being the least. Women drew more strongly upon familial resources than men ( Χ 2 =5.73, df=1, p=.017). There was an overall trend for reduced trust in resources in relation to the issue of gender-based violence. However, settled Yezidi women were 1.6 times more likely to trust community members and government services and 3.7 times more likely to trust NGOs on this issue than displaced women. Conclusions Mapping of social connections and trust provides valuable insight into the social capital available to support help seeking in populations of humanitarian concern. For these Yezidi populations, family, religious and community resources were the most widely utilised and trusted, although trust predominantly focused in the former two domains with respect to gender-based violence. Lack of trust appeared to be a major barrier to stronger engagement with available NGO provision, particularly amongst displaced women. The role of faith and religious resources for this population is clearly significant, and warrants an explicitly faith-sensitive approach to humanitarian assistance.
Sentinel lymph node mapping using ICG fluorescence or cone beam CT - a rabbit model feasibility study
Authors: Muhanna Nidal , Chan Harley HL , Douglas Catriona , Daly Mike , Jaidka Atul , Bernstein Jonathan , Townson Jason L , Irish Jonathan
Published: January 2020

Background Current sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) techniques, including use of radioisotopes, have disadvantages including the use of a radioactive tracer. Indocyanine green (ICG) based near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging and cone beam CT (CBCT) have advantages for intraoperative use. However, limited literature exists regarding their use in head and neck cancer SLNB.Methods This was a prospective, non-randomized study using a rabbit oral cavity VX2 squamous cell carcinoma model which develops lymph node metastasis. Pre-operatively, images were acquired by MicroCT and DCE-MRI. CBCT and NIR fluorescence imaging of ICG was used to map and guide the SLNB resection.Results Intraoperative use of ICG to guide fluorescence resection resulted in identification of all lymph nodes identified by pre-operative CT. CBCT was useful for near real time intraoperative imaging and 3D reconstruction.Conclusions This pre-clinical study further demonstrates the technical feasibility, limitations and advantages of intraoperative NIR-guided ICG imaging for SLN identification as a complementary method during head and neck surgery.
Diversity of MSDIN family members in amanitin-producing mushrooms and the phylogeny of the MSDIN and prolyl oligopeptidase genes
Authors: He Zhengmi , Long Pan , Fang Fang , Li Sainan , Zhang Ping , Chen Zuohong
Published: January 2020

Background Amanitin-producing mushrooms, mainly distributed in the genera Amanita , Galerina and Lepiota , possess MSDIN gene family for the biosynthesis of many cyclopeptides catalyzed by prolyl oligopeptidase (POP). Recently, transcriptome sequencing has proven to be a efficient way to mine MSDIN and POP genes in these lethal mushrooms. Until now, only A . palloides and A. bisporigera from North America and A . exitialis from Asia have been studied based on transcriptome analysis. However, MSDIN and POP genes of many amanitin-producing mushrooms in China remain unstudied, and hence the transcriptomes of these speices deserve to be analysed. Results In this study, the MSDIN and POP genes from ten Amanita species, two Galerina species and Lepiota venenata were studied and the phylogenetic relationships of their MSDIN and POP genes were analyzed. Through transcriptome sequencing and PCR cloning, 19 POP genes and 151 MSDIN genes predicted to encode 98 non-duplicated cyclopeptides, including α-amanitin, β-amanitin, phallacidin, phalloidin and 94 unknown peptides, were found in these species. Phylogenetic analysis showed that toxin peptide genes were clustered depending on the chemical substance within genus while depending on the taxonomy between genus and that the POPA genes of Amanita , Galerina and Lepiota were clustered and separated in three different groups, but the POPB genes of the three distinct genera were clustered in a highly monophyletic group. Conclusions These results above indicate that lethal Amanita species have the genetic capacity to produce numerous cyclopeptides, most of which are unknown, while lethal Galerina and Lepiota species seem to only have the genetic capacity to produce α-amanitin. Additionally, the POPB phylogeny of Amanita , Galerina and Lepiota conflicts with the taxonomic status of the three genera, suggesting that horizontal gene transfer might occur among the three genera.
Natural variation in the expression of a transmembrane protein influences cell growth in Arabidopsis thaliana petals by altering auxin availability
Authors: Miller Charlotte N. , Dumenil Jack , Lu Fu Hao , Smith Caroline , McKenzie Neil , Chapman Volodymyr , Ball Joshua , Box Mathew , Bevan Michael Webster
Published: January 2020

Background The same species of plant can exhibit highly diverse sizes and shapes of organs that are genetically determined. Characterising genetic variation underlying this morphological diversity is an important objective in evolutionary studies and it also helps identify the functions of genes influencing plant growth and development. Extensive screens of mutagenised Arabidopsis populations have identified multiple genes and mechanisms affecting organ size and shape, but relatively few studies have exploited the rich diversity of natural populations to identify genes involved in growth control. Results We screened a relatively well characterised collection of Arabidopsis thaliana ecotypes for variation in petal size. Association analyses identified sequence and gene expression variation on chromosome 4 that made a substantial contribution to differences in petal area. Variation in the expression of a previously uncharacterised gene At4g16850 (named as KSK ) had a substantial role on variation in organ size by influencing cell size. Over-expression of KSK led to larger petals with larger cells and promoted the formation of stamenoid features. The expression of auxin-responsive genes known to limit cell growth was reduced in response to KSK over-expression. ANT expression was also reduced in KSK over-expression lines, consistent with altered floral identities. Auxin availability was reduced in KSK over-expressing cells, consistent with changes in auxin-responsive gene expression. KSK may therefore influence auxin availability during petal development. Conclusions Understanding how genetic variation influences plant growth is important for both evolutionary and mechanistic studies. We used natural populations of Arabidopsis thaliana to identify sequence variation in a promoter region of Arabidopsis ecotypes that mediated differences in the expression of a previously undescribed membrane protein. This variation contributed to altered auxin availability and cell size during petal growth.
Appropriate timing of performing abdominal ultrasonography and termination of follow-up observation for antenatal grade 1 or 2 hydronephrosis
Authors: Nakane Akihiro , Mizuno Kentaro , Kato Taiki , Nishio Hidenori , Kamisawa Hideyuki , Kurokawa Satoshi , Maruyama Tetsuji , Yasui Takahiro , Hayashi Yutaro
Published: January 2020

BackgroundMost cases of antenatal the Society of Fetal Urology (SFU) grade 1 or 2 hydronephrosis improve or resolve spontaneously with conservative treatment. However, there is no consensus on the duration of follow-up for cases of grade 1 or 2 hydronephrosis. The aim of this study was to determine the need for continuous follow-up period and new management of children with antenatal grade 1 or 2 hydronephrosis.MethodsSubjects underwent ultrasonographic assessment for hydronephrosis according to the SFU classification. We retrospectively evaluated 112 patients with postnatal grade 1 hydronephrosis and 69 with grade 2 hydronephrosis hydronephrosis using abdominal ultrasonography between January 2010 and December 2017. We examined the change in hydronephrosis grade on repeat ultrasonography.ResultsThe mean follow-up duration was 44.9 months. Initial grade 1 hydronephrosis disappeared in 44.8% of cases at 12 months, 66.4% at 24 months and 73.2% at 48 months. Initial grade 2 hydronephrosis showed improvement in grade in 70.0% of cases at 12 months, 88.3% at 24 months and 89.5% at 48 months. However, 13.4% of grade 1 and 2.9% of grade 2 cases increased in grade and 99.3% of these cases worsened within the first 6 months. No cases with increased grade required pyeloplasty. Initial disappearance and later reappearance of hydronephrosis occurred in 13.4% of grade 1 cases and 2.9% of grade 2 cases. The mean duration of later reappearance of hydronephrosis was 6.9 months. No cases showed reappearance of hydronephrosis after more than 1 year. Conclusions Ultrasonography within the first 6 months was necessary for management of children with antenatal grade 1 or 2 hydronephrosis, because some patients showed worsening. Most cases of grade 1 or 2 hydronephrosis resolved spontaneously, however a few cases reappeared within 1 year. Therefore, ultrasonography after 1 year was necessary in children with hydronephrosis that spontaneously disappeared. The appropriate time to end the follow-up was considered to have been after one year or more has passed since the disappearance was confirmed.
Relationship of endoscopic lesions of the renal papilla with type of renal stone and 24 h urine chemistry
Authors: Arroyo Xavier Arnau Sabaté , Grases Felix , Quetglas Jose Luis Bauza , Garcia Jorge Guimera , Ayala Enrique Pieras
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND: Our purpose was to study the relationships of the 3 different types of endoscopic calcifications of the renal papilla (Randall’s plaque, intratubular calcification, papillary crater) with the type of stone and urine chemistry.METHODS This prospective study examined 41 patients (age range: 18 to 80 years) who received retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for renal lithiasis (mean stone size: 15.3 ± 7.2 mm). Endoscopic injuries of the renal papilla were classified as Randall’s plaque, intratubular calcification, or papillary crater. Calculi were classified as uric acid, calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM; papillary and cavity), calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD), or calcium phosphate (CP). A 24 h urine analysis of calcium, oxalate, citrate, phosphate, and pH was performed in all patients. The relationship of each type of papillary endoscopic injury with type of stone and urine chemistry was determined. Fisher’s exact test and Student’s t-test were used to determine the significance of relationships, and a p value below 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS The most common endoscopic injury was tubular calcification (78%), followed by Randall’s plaque (58%), and papillary crater (39%). There was no significant relationship of Randall’s plaque with type of stone. However, endoscopic intratubular calcification (p = 0.025) and papillary crater (p = 0.041) were more common in patients with COD and CP stones. There were also significant relationships of papillary crater with hypercalciuria (p = 0.036) and hyperoxaluria (p = 0.024), and of Randall’s plaque with hypocitraturia (p = 0.005).CONCLUSIONS There are certain specific relationships between the different types of endoscopic papillary calcifications with stone chemistry and urine chemistry. COD and CP stones were associated with endoscopic tubular calcifications and papillary craters. Hypercalciuria was associated with tubular calcification, and hypocitraturia was associated with Randall’s plaque.
Lenti-shRNA-mediated FAM54A knockdown suppresses the proliferation and induces apoptosis of human Burkitt lymphoma cells
Authors: Yang Guang , Wang Hua Xiao , Yan Bin , Xu Yan Chun , Zheng Yi Ru , Chen Xi Meng , Liu Fang Rui , Zhang Di Hai , Jin Shun Zai
Published: January 2020

Background Burkitt lymphoma is a kind of non-Hodgkin B-cell-derived malignancy, derived from germinal center B cells. FAM54A has been proved to be involved in various physiological and pathological processes of cancers, but the biological function of FAM54A in Burkitt lymphoma remains unclear. Thus, the aim of our research was to elucidate the roles of FAM54A in proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle of Burkitt lymphoma.Methods Burkitt lymphoma cell line (Namalwa) was chosen to perform the following experiments. FAM54A-shRNA and negative control-shRNA lentivirus that were synthesized, respectively by Qiagen were used to transfect targeted cells in order to knockdown FAM54A or as negative control. Then, cell proliferation, cell cycle and cell apoptosis were detected by using MTS assay, propidium iodide staining and Annexin V-APC staining, respectively.Results Our results showed that high expression of FAM54A protein was found in Namalwa cell line. Furthermore, MTS analysis exhibited that knockdown of FAM54A obviously inhibited cell proliferation in Namalwa cells. What’s more, cell cycle analysis showed that knockdown of FAM54A induced Namalwa cell apoptosis and arrested cell cycle in G2/M phase.Conclusions These findings suggest that FAM54A is essential for Namalwa cell proliferation and may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of Burkitt lymphoma.
Etoposide-mediated interleukin-8 secretion from bone marrow stromal cells induces hematopoietic stem cell mobilization
Authors: Kang Ka-Won , Lee Seung-Jin , Kim Ji Hye , Lee Byung-Hyun , Kim Seok Jin , Park Yong , Kim Byung Soo
Published: January 2020

Background This study assessed the mechanism of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) mobilization using etoposide with granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and determined how it differed from that using cyclophosphamide with G-CSF or G-CSF alone.Methods The study analyzed data from 173 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients who underwent autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (auto-PBSCT), in vitro experiments using HSCs and bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), and in vivo mouse model studies.Results The etoposide with G-CSF mobilization group showed the highest yield of CD34+ cells and the lowest change in white blood cell counts during mobilization. Etoposide triggered interleukin (IL)-8 secretion from BMSCs and caused long-term BMSC toxicity, which were not observed with cyclophosphamide treatment. The expansion of CD34+ cells cultured in BMSC-conditioned medium containing IL-8 was more remarkable than that without IL-8. The expression of CXCR2, mTOR, and cMYC in HSCs was gradually enhanced at 1, 6, and 24 h after IL-8 stimulation. In animal studies, the etoposide with G-CSF mobilization group presented stronger expression of IL-8-related cytokines and MMP9 and scantier expression of SDF-1 in the bone marrow, compared to the other groups not treated with etoposide.Conclusion Collectively, the unique mechanism of etoposide with G-CSF-mediated mobilization is associated with the secretion of IL-8 from BMSCs, causing the enhanced proliferation and mobilization of HSCs in the bone marrow, which was not observed in the mobilization using cyclophosphamide with G-CSF or G-CSF alone. Moreover, the long-term toxicity of etoposide to BMSC emphasizes the need for further studies to develop more efficient and safe chemo-mobilization strategies.