bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Genomic Analysis and Phenotypic Characterization of Bronchoscope-associated Klebsiella aerogenes
Authors: Huang Fang , Li Shuang , Chi Xiaohui , Wen Peipei , Fu Hao , Wu Lingjiao , Lou Lan , Mo Junjun , Xu Hao
Published: December 2020

Background: Bronchoscopes has been linked to the outbreaks of nosocomial infections. We aim to investigate the phenotypic and genomic profiles of bronchoscope-associated Klebsiella aerogenes isolates, and their association with genome public available isolates from human and environment.Methods: We performed a prospective single-center study sampling echoendoscopes after clinical use and after normal decontamination procedures. Bacterial screening was conducted by culturing the sample on Mueller-Hinton agar plates. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the broth microdilution method. Whole-genome sequencing of K. aerogenes isolates was performed using an Illumina HiSeq system and comparative genomics analysis were conducted.Results: Over the 5-month period, a total of 358 isolates and 13 isolates were recovered from samples after clinical procedures and samples after decontamination procedures, respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing found 7 K. aerogenes isolates to exhibit low-level resistance to antimicrobial agents. Among 7 K. aerogenes isolates, we found 5 sequence types (STs). Whole genome sequencing and comparison analysis observed the genetic diversity in our bacterial collection, which clustered into three main clades. Furthermore, we identified a total of 43 antimicrobial resistance genes in the K. aerogenes core genomes. As expected, human isolates encoded more antimicrobial resistance genes than that environmental isolates. Conclusions: This study first described the phenotypic and genomics characteristics of bronchoscope-associated K. aerogenes. The present observations demonstrated that broadly investigation of specific pathogens using publicly available global genomes offered the opportunity to identify prevalent clones associated with various hosts, sources, and geographical locations.
Comparison of bacterial microleakage of three bioactive endodontic sealers in simulated underwater diving and aviation conditions.
Authors: Dastorani Mehdi , Malekpour Behnam , AminSobhani Mohsen , Alemrajabi Mohammadsadegh , Mahdian Arezoo , Malekpour Behrooz
Published: December 2020

Background: Bacterial microleakage is an important cause of apical periodontitis and failure of endodontic treatment. This study aimed to assess the bacterial microleakage of nano-mineral trioxide aggregate (nano-MTA) as a sealer, Endoseal MTA, and GuttaFlow Bioseal sealers in atmospheric pressure, and simulated underwater diving and aviation conditions. Methods: In this in vitro, experimental study, 180 extracted single-rooted teeth were cleaned and shaped, and were then randomly divided into three groups for single-cone obturation using Endoseal MTA, GuttaFlow Bioseal, or nano-MTA as a sealer. Each group was then randomly divided into three subgroups, and subjected to ambient atmospheric pressure, 2 atm pressure (to simulate underwater diving), and 0.5 atm pressure (to simulate aviation). The teeth then underwent microbial leakage test using Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), and the percentage of samples showing microleakage was recorded for up to 1 month, and analyzed using the Chi-square test.Results: The three sealer groups were significantly different regarding bacterial microleakage (P<0.05). The nano-MTA group showed significantly higher microleakage after day 15 than the other two groups (P=0.006). The effect of pressure on bacterial microleakage was not significant in any sealer group (P>0.05).Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it may be concluded that single-cone obturation technique using nano-MTA as a sealer results in lower resistance to bacterial microleakage compared with the use of GuttaFlow Bioseal, and Endoseal MTA. Pressure changes in simulated underwater diving and aviation conditions had no significant effect on bacterial microleakage. Trial Registration Number: This is not a human subject research.
Mitochondrial DNA abnormalities provide mechanistic insight and predict reactive oxygen species-stimulating drug efficacy
Authors: Zaidieh Tarek , McGeehan Rhiannon , Smith James , Ball Karen , An Qian
Published: December 2020

Background Associations between mitochondrial genetic abnormalities (variations and copy number, i.e. mtDNAcn, change) and elevated ROS have been reported in cancer compared to normal cells. Since excessive levels of ROS can trigger apoptosis, treating cancer cells with ROS-stimulating agents may enhance their death. This study aimed to investigate the link between baseline ROS levels and mitochondrial genetic abnormalities, and how mtDNA abnormalities might be used to predict cancer cells’ response to ROS-stimulating therapy. Methods Intracellular and mitochondrial specific-ROS levels were measured using the DCFDA and MitoSOX probes, respectively, in four cancer and one non-cancerous cell lines. Cells were treated with ROS-stimulating agents (cisplatin and dequalinium) and the IC50s were determined using the MTS assay. Sanger sequencing and qPCR were conducted to screen the complete mitochondrial genome for variations and to relatively quantify mtDNAcn, respectively. Non-synonymous variations were subjected to 3-dimensional (3D) protein structural mapping and analysis. Results Our data revealed novel significant associations between the total number of variations in the mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) complex I and III genes, mtDNAcn, ROS levels, and ROS-associated drug response. Furthermore, functional variations in complexes I/III correlated significantly and positively with mtDNAcn, ROS levels and drug resistance, indicating they might mechanistically influence these parameters in cancer cells. Conclusions Our findings suggest that mtDNAcn and complexes I/III functional variations have the potential to be efficient biomarkers to predict ROS-stimulating therapy efficacy in the future.
The Effectiveness of Group Meta-Cognitive Therapy on Depression, Cognitive Emotional Regulation, and Meta-cognitive Beliefs in Women With Breast Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Zahedian Elham , Bahreini Masoud , Ghasemi Nezamaddin , Mirzaei Kamran
Published: December 2020

BackgroundBreast cancer is one of the most common cancers in Iranian women. They will experience a mental health problem such as depression before, during or after treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of group metacognitive therapy on depression, cognitive emotional regulation, and meta-cognitive beliefs in women with breast cancer.Methodsin this randomized controlled clinical trial, a total of 24 depressed patients with breast cancer were randomly allocated to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received meta-cognitive therapy in 8 weekly sessions but control group received treatment as usual. Beck's Depression Inventory, cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire, and meta-cognitions questionnaire were completed before, after and one month after intervention. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon and Chi-square tests.ResultsThe mean score of depression in experimental group was reduced from 21.6 ± 4.83 in the pre-test to 13.83 ± 8.12 in one month follow-up (P = 0.16) but there was no significant difference in control group. The mean score of cognitive emotion regulation did not show a significant change in the two groups during the study and follow up period. The mean score of meta-cognitive beliefs was reached 68.75 ± 15.74 from 79.51 ± 10.72 in the experimental group during the follow-up period (P = 0.006), but there was no significant difference in control group in the score of metacognitive beliefs.ConclusionThese findings support the efficacy of meta-cognitive therapy as a viable psychosocial intervention in depressed patients with breast cancer.Trial registrationIRCT201606288473N5. Registered on: 05/09/2016https://www.irct.ir/trial/8946.
Association of Tear Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Immunoassay With Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study Using Qualitative, Semiquantitative, and Quantitative Strategies
Authors: Lee You Hyun , Bang Seung-Pil , Shim Kyu-Young , Son Myung-Jin , Kim Harim , Jun Jong Hwa
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to analyze the association of tear matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) immunoassay with the severity of dry eye (DE) signs and symptoms through qualitative, semiquantitative, and quantitative evaluations of immunoassay band. This cross-sectional study enrolled 320 eyes of 320 patients. The clinical signs of DE were assessed using the Ocular Surface Disorder Index (OSDI) score, visual analogue scale (VAS), tear breakup time (tBUT), tear volume evaluation by tear meniscometry, and staining scores of the cornea and conjunctiva by the Oxford grading scheme. Positive MMP-9 immunoassay results were significantly related to shorter tBUT, tBUT ≤3 seconds, higher corneal staining score, corneal staining score ≥2, and conjunctival staining score ≥2. The semiquantitative results of the MMP-9 immunoassay were positively correlated with higher corneal staining score and negatively correlated with tBUT. However, in the quantitative analysis, none of the DE signs or symptoms were correlated to the band density of the MMP-9 immunoassay. In conclusion, The qualitatively and semiquantitatively evaluated MMP-9 immunoassay results are related to the clinical severity of DE. However, the quantitatively evaluated MMP-9 immunoassay results did not represent the clinical severity of DE disease.
Solid State Fermentation of Orange Peels for Production of Cellulase, Pectinase and Recovery of Orange Oil using Aspergillus Species NCIM 1432.
Authors: Labrath Yogita Prakash , Gaikar Vilas Gajanan
Published: December 2020

The conventional orange peel extraction processes have several drawbacks hence; there is a need to develop green process for extraction of orange oil. In present study, solid state fermentation of fresh orange peels by Aspergillus species NCIM -1432 to extract extra-cellular enzymes and orange peel oil are noted and the effect of methods of orange peel sterilisation, importance of selection of the fermentation strain, external nitrogen source, and particle size of the peels are also studied. The process used here gave 0.95 % w/w yield of orange oil with 96 % w/w limonene content with typical orange colour and flavour. Also, the crude enzymes produced during fermentation showed 155 U/ g and 239 CMC/ g respectively of pectinase and cellulase activity. The molecular weights of the obtained enzymes were found to be 39, 55 and 120 kDa which corresponds to the reported pectinase and cellulase.
Genome-wide (ChIP-seq) Identification of Target Genes Regulated by WRKY33 During Submergence Stress in Arabidopsis
Authors: Junlin Zhang , bao Liu , Yan Song , yang Chen , jiao Fu , Jianquan Liu , Tao Ma , Zhenxiang Xi , Huanhuan Liu
Published: December 2020

Background: Hypoxia induced by flooding causes significant losses to crop production almost every year. However, the molecular network of hypoxia signaling pathway is still poorly understood. According to previous studies, transgenic plants overexpressing the WRKY33 gene showed enhanced resistance to submergence stress. Thus, the transcription factor WRKY33 may regulate a series of target genes in response to submergence. Here, to determine the putative downstream targets of WRKY33 at a genome-wide scale in Arabidopsis thaliana, we performed the chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) using 35S:FLAG-WRKY33 overexpression transgenic lines (WRKY33-OE) upon 24 hours of submergence treatment.Results: Using ChIP-seq data, we identified a total of 104 WRKY33-binding genes under submergence treatment (WRKY33BGHs). Most of the WRKY33BGHs are involved in the oxidation-reduction process, programmed cell death in response to reactive oxygen species, lipid biosynthesis process, and other processes related to stress responses. Moreover, the major motif identified in the WRKY33BGHs promoters is a new cis-element, TCTCTC (we named it as “TC box”). This cis-element is different from the previously known W box for WRKY33. Further qPCR experiments verified that genes carrying this motif in their promoters could be regulated by WRKY33 upon submergence treatment.Conclusions: Our study has identified a new putative binding motif of WRKY33 and recovered numerous previously unknown target genes of WRKY33 during submergence stress. The WRKY33 gene positively participates in flooding response probably by transcriptional regulation of the downstream hypoxia-related target genes via a “TC box”.
Comparative Effect of Statin Intensity Between Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus After Implanting Newer-generation Drug-eluting Stents in Korean Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients: a Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Kim Yong Hoon , Her Ae-Young , Jeong Myung Ho , Kim Byeong-Keuk , Hong Sung-Jin , Kim Seunghwan , Ahn Chul-Min , Kim Jung-Sun , Ko Young-Guk , Choi Donghoon , Hong Myeong-Ki , Jang Yangsoo
Published: December 2020

Background: Comparative studies regarding the long-term clinical outcomes of statin intensity between acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients with prediabetes and those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), after successful implantation of newer-generation drug-eluting stents (DES) with statin treatment, are limited. We compared the 2-year clinical outcomes between these patients. Methods: A total of 11612 AMI patients were classified as statin users (n = 9893) and non-users (n = 1719). Thereafter, statin users were further divided into high-intensity (n = 2984) or low-moderate-intensity statin (n = 6909) treatment groups. Those in these two groups were further classified into patients with normoglycemia, prediabetes, and T2DM. The major outcomes were the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), defined as all-cause death, recurrent myocardial infarction (Re-MI), or any repeat coronary revascularization. Results: After adjusting for both high-intensity and low-moderate-intensity statin users, the cumulative incidences of MACE (p = 0.737, p = 0.062, respectively), all-cause death, Re-MI, and any repeat revascularization were similar between the prediabetes and T2DM groups. In the total study population, both high-intensity and low-moderate-intensity statin treatments showed comparable results. However, the beneficial effects of high-intensity compared to low-moderate-intensity statin therapy were more apparent in the normoglycemia group than hyperglycemia group, as it reduced the cumulative incidences of MACE (aHR: 1.903; 95% CI: 1.203-3.010; p = 0.006) and any repeat revascularization (aHR: 3.248; 95% CI: 1.539-6.854; p = 0.002). Conclusions: In this retrospective registry study, prediabetes and T2DM groups showed comparable clinical outcomes, after administering both high-intensity and low-moderate-intensity statin treatments. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered
Polymorphisms of the Glucocorticoid Receptor Gene and Adrenal Suppression in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Treated with Glucocorticoids for Acute Exacerbations
Authors: Sivapalan Pradeesh , Borresen Stina W. , Eklöf Josefin , Klose Marianne , Holm Freja S. , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Rossing Maria , Jørgensen Niklas R. , Marvig Rasmus L. , Saeed Mohamad Isam , Wilcke Torgny , Seersholm Niels , Mathioudakis Alexander G. , Vestbo Jørgen , Jensen Jens-Ulrik Stæhr
Published: December 2020

Background: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) gene NR3C1 have been associated with an altered sensitivity to glucocorticoids (GC), and thus may affect the therapeutic effects of GCs. We investigated the prevalence of adrenal suppression after treatment with GCs and evaluated whether GR SNPs were associated with the risk of adrenal suppression and metabolic disorders in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: In an observational prospective cohort study, we recruited 77 patients with severe COPD receiving five days GC treatment for an exacerbation of COPD. 49% of patients also received regular inhaled corticosteroids. Adrenal function was evaluated with a corticotropin test 30 days after the exacerbation. Patients were genotyped for Bcl1, N363S, ER22/23EK and 9β SNPs. Results: The prevalence of adrenal suppression (corticotropin-stimulated plasma-cortisol ≤ 420 nmol/L) 1 month after GC treatment was 4/77 (5%). There was no correlation between high-sensitivity (p-value 0.79) or low-sensitivity (p-value 0.26) GR haplotypes and stimulated cortisol levels for COPD patients treated with GCs. There was no difference between adrenal suppression and metabolic disorders in COPD patients stratified for high vs. low GC-sensitivity GR haplotypes plus wild type (p-value > 0.05). Corticotropin stimulated P-cortisol did not differ between carriers and non-carriers for Bcl1, 9β, ER22/23K and N363S. For carriers of the high sensitivity GR gene haplotype, the association between inhaled corticosteroid dose and stimulated P-cortisol concentrations was more inverse (slope –0.25 vs. -0.10) than in patients with the low sensitivity haplotype. Conclusions: Five percent of patients had an insufficient adrenal function. The Bcl1 and N363S polymorphisms do not seem to increase the risk of adrenal suppression or metabolic disorders in adults treated with corticosteroids for COPD exacerbations.Trial Registration: The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03140761) at May 4, 2017 with URL https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03140761.
Muscle Pathological Features and Extra-Muscle Involvement in Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies With Anti-Mitochondrial Antibody
Authors: Zhang Lu , Yang Hanbo , Lei Jieping , Peng Qinglin , Yang Hongxia , Wang Guochun , Lu Xin
Published: December 2020

BackgroudAnti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMAs) can be detected in some idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) patients. We aimed to investigate the clinical features of IIM patients with AMAs.Methods We retrospectively analysed consecutive 1,167 patients with IIM for AMAs-associated myositis and compared them to age- and sex-matched AMA-negative patients. ResultsTwenty-nine patients (2.5%) were identified with AMAs-positive myositis; eight of them had primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). There were no significant differences in skin rash, dysphagia, interstitial lung disease, and muscle strength between AMAs-positive patients and disease controls. 12/23(52.2%) cases showed immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM)-like pathological features. Among AMAs-positive patients, 11 of 16 patients with isolated anti-AMA were classified as IMNM which was significantly higher than that of patients with coexistent anti-AMAs and myositis-specific antibodies (p=0.026). Moreover, AMAs-positive patients had a significantly higher cardiac involvement ratio (P<0.001) compared to controls. Comparsion in AMAs-positive IIM patients show the incidence of abnormal echocardiography findings was significantly higher in patients without primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) than in patients with PBC(P=0.009). Patients without heart abnormalities took significantly less time to achieve disease remission and prednisone tapering to <10 mg than patients with heart abnormalities (P<0.001 and P=0.001, respectively).ConclusionsIMNM was a major histopathological finding in IIM patients with isolated anti-AMAs antibody. AMAs was significantly associated with cardiac involvement in IIM. PBC seemed to be a protective factor for abnormal echocardiography findings in AMAs-positive patients. Patients without heart involvement took less time to achieve disease remission and prednisone tapering off.
Commiphora Myrrha (Nees) Engl. Resin Extracts Induce Phase-I Cytochrome P450 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4 Isoenzyme Expressions in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HepG2) Cells
Authors: Alehaideb Zeyad , Alatar Ghada , Nehdi Atef , Albaz Abeer , Al-Eidi Hamad , Almutiri Mansour , Hawsa Esraa , Alshuail Nora , Matou-Nasri Sabine
Published: December 2020

Background: Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engl. (C. myrrha) resin is one of the oldest Middle Eastern herbal medicine used for treatment and prevention of numerous diseases. This resin is prepared in different methods and widely consumed among Saudi Arabian patients. Despite its popularity, no studies have been done on potential modulation effects of C. myrrha resin extracts on human cytochrome P450 (CYP) drug-metabolizing enzyme expression.Methods: The C. myrrha extracts were prepared by two different methods of sonication and boiling resembling the most popular traditional preparations of maceration and decoction, respectively. Both extracts were fingerprinted using high-performance liquid chromatography equipped with ultra-violet detector (HPLC-UVD). The viability of HepG2 cells treated with aqueous extracts was determined using Promega CellTiter-Glo® assay in order to select the efficient and non-toxic resin extract concentrations for phase-I metabolic isoenzyme expression analysis. The isoenzyme gene and protein expression levels of CYP 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4 were measured using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot technologies, respectively. Results: The HPLC-UVD fingerprinting revealed different chromatograms for C. myrrha extracts indicating possible differences in their modulation effects on CYP expression. Both aqueous extracts were toxic to HepG2 cells when tested at concentrations exceeding 150 µg/ml of dry crude extract. The CYP 2C8, 2C9, and 2C19 mRNA expression levels increased up to 4.0-fold after cell treatment with concentrations ranging from 1 to 30 µg/ml C. myrrha extracts, as compared with the untreated cells. However, the modulation of CYP3A4 mRNA expression levels was only significant at 30 µg/ml of crude extract exceeding the 2.0-fold cutoff. The up-regulation of CYP mRNA expression levels induced by C. myrrha extracts was confirmed at the CYP protein expression levels as well. Conclusions: The C. myrrha aqueous extracts modulate CYP 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4 gene expression at clinically-relevant concentrations regardless of preparation methods. Further in vitro and in vivo experiments are required for the establishment of herb-drug interaction profile for these traditional medicinal resin extracts.
Comparison of the Reductions in LDL-C and non-HDL-C Induced by the Red Yeast Rice Extract Xuezhikang between Fasting and Nonfasting States in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Zhu Li-Yuan , Wen Xing-Yu , Xiang Qun-Yan , Guo Li-Ling , Xu Jin , Zhao Shui-Ping , Liu Ling
Published: December 2020

Background: Xuezhikang, an extract of red yeast rice, effectively lowers fasting blood lipid levels. However, the influence of Xuezhikang on the nonfasting levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) has not been explored in Chinese patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).Methods: Fifty CHD patients were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups (n = 25 each) to receive 1200 mg/d of Xuezhikang or a placebo for six weeks as routine therapy. Blood lipids were repeatedly measured before and after six weeks of treatment at 0, 2, 4 and 6 hour (h) after a standard breakfast containing 800 kcal and 50 g of fat.Results: The serum LDL-C levels significantly decreased, from a fasting level of 3.88 mmol/L to nonfasting levels of 2.99, 2.83 and 3.23 mmol/L at 2, 4 and 6 h, respectively, after breakfast (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was found in the total cholesterol (TC) levels between the fasting value and values at any nonfasting time points. The serum non-HDL-C level slightly increased from a fasting level of 4.29 mmol/L to nonfasting levels of 4.32, 4.38 and 4.34 mmol/L at 2, 4 and 6 h postprandially, respectively, and the difference reached statistical significance only at 4 and 6 h after breakfast (P < 0.05). No difference was observed in the fasting and nonfasting blood lipids between the two groups at baseline. After six weeks of Xuezhikang treatment, the patients had significantly lower fasting and nonfasting serum levels of LDL-C and non-HDL-C (P < 0.05) than at pretreatment. The LDL-C levels were reduced by 27.8%, 28.1%, 26.2% and 25.3% at 0, 2, 4 and 6 h, respectively, and the non-HDL-C levels were reduced by 27.6%, 28.7%, 29.0% and 28.0% at 0, 2, 4 and 6 h, respectively, after breakfast. No significant difference was found in the percent reductions in the LDL-C and non-HDL-C levels among the four different time points.Conclusions: Six weeks of Xuezhikang treatment significantly decreased LDL-C and non-HDL-C levels, with similar percent reductions in the fasting and nonfasting states in CHD patients, indicating that the percent change in nonfasting LDL-C or non-HDL-C could replace that in the fasting state for evaluation of the efficacy of cholesterol control in CHD patients who are unwilling or unable to fast.
Optimization of Zinc Application Rates With and Without Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi for the Improvement in Maize Growth, Gas Exchange Attributes and Yield in Zinc Deficient Soil
Authors: Danish Subhan , Saboor Abdul , Ali Muhammad Arif , Ahmed Niaz , Skalicky Milan , Fahad Shah , Datta Rahul , Hassan Mohamed M. , Brestic Marian , Sabagh Ayman EL
Published: December 2020

Zinc (Zn) concentration in soil varies from deficient to toxic. Its deficiency, as well as toxicity through imbalance application, can reduce maize growth and yield. Therefore, balanced application of Zn is a necessity of time to save resources and to achieve optimum growth and yield in maize. Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) can provide tolerance to host plant against Zn induced stress. Inoculation of AMF not only helps in balance uptake of Zn but also enhance growth and yield of crops. That’s why in the current efficacious function of AMF, i.e., Glomus specie was assed. Different application rates of Zn (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100 and 120 mg Zn/kg) were applied with AMF (AM) and without AMF (NM). Results showed that root colonization level was 45% higher in AMF inoculated plants as compared with non-inoculated plants. A significant increase in plant height (15%), number of leaves (35.4%), cob weight (4.39%), 1000 grains weight (10.5%) and biological yield (42.2%) signified the efficacious functioning of Zn20+AM over sole inoculation of AM. We also observed that AMF inoculation with Zn20 helped in improved photosynthesis, transpiration and stomatal conductance. Furthermore, both Zn20+AM and Zn20+AM were significantly better for the improvement in total soluble protein over AM in maize. Higher application rates of zinc, i.e., Zn80 and Zn120 induced Zn toxicity with (AM) and without (NM) AMF. In conclusion, Zn20+AM is an effective amendment to achieve better growth and yield of maize without Zn deficiency or toxicity.
Dynamics of T Lymphocyte Phenotypes Between the Periphery and the Brain From the Acute to the Chronic Phase Following Ischemic Stroke in Mice
Authors: Jeon Myung-Shin , Kim Minha , Kim So-Dam , Kim Kyoung-In , Jeon Eun Hae , Kim Min Gee , Lim Yu-Ree , Lkhagva-Yondon Enkhmaa , Oh Yena , Na Kwangmin , Chung Young Cheul , Jin Byung Kwan , Song Yun Seon
Published: December 2020

BackgroundT lymphocytes are involved in infarct size at the early stage of stroke. However, the phenotypes of T lymphocytes and their functions in peripheral immune organs and the brain have not been well-analyzed from the acute to the chronic phase of stroke.MethodsA 45 min transient middle cerebral artery occlusion mouse model was used. The phenotypes of T lymphocytes in the thymus, spleen, blood, and brain were determined using the neurological severity score (NSS) and body weights during the 6-month follow-up. ResultsImpairment of thymocyte numbers, development, proliferation, and apoptosis was observed for up to 2 weeks. The number of mature T cells in the spleen and blood decreased and showed less interferon- production for up to 2 weeks. Increased numbers of CD44+CD62L- effector T cells and CD4-CD8-CD3+ double negative T cells were observed in mouse brains in the early phase of stroke, while interleukin (IL)-10+Foxp3+ regulatory T cell levels increased for 1 week during the chronic phase. These phenotypes were correlated with body weight and the NSS. Conclusions﻿The recovery of T lymphocyte numbers and increased IL-10+Foxp3+ regulatory T lymphocytes may be important for the improvement of long-term neurological outcomes. Dynamic changes in T lymphocytes from the acute and chronic phase may play different roles, such as pathological and recovery roles, respectively. This study provides fundamental information regarding the T lymphocyte alterations from the brain to the peripheral immune organs from the acute to the chronic phase of stroke.
Analyzing the Multi-target Pharmacological Mechanism of Folium Artemisiae Argyi Acting on Breast Cancer: A Network Pharmacology Approach
Authors: Wang Jinlu , Wang Xiuli , Zhang Han , Lu Minghui , Niu Xingjian , Yin Lei , Wang Yiran , Gu Yucui , Li Dongbo , Ji Hongfei , Zhang Qingyuan
Published: December 2020

Background: Folium Artemislae Argyl (FAA) is a traditional Chinese herb medicine widely used in clinic. However, the underlying mechanisms of its anticancer effects have not been fully understood. Methods: In this study, we applied a network pharmacology approach to dig out the potential mechanisms of FAA against breast cancer.Results: We obtained 9 active ingredients and 236 potential targets from FAA in total to construct a network, which showed that quercetin served as the major ingredient in FAA. AKT1 (RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase), MYC (Myc proto-oncogene protein), CASP3 (Caspase-3), EGFR (Epidermal growth factor receptor), JUN (Transcription factor AP-1), CCND1 (G1/S-specific cyclin-D1), VEGFA (Vascular endothelial growth factor A), ESR1 (Estrogen receptor), MAPK1 (Mitogen-activated protein kinase 1) and EGF (Pro-epidermal growth factor) were identified as key targets of FAA in the treatment of breast cancer. The protein protein interaction (PPI) cluster demonstrated that AKT1 was the seed in this cluster, indicating that AKT1 played a crucial role in connecting other nodes in the PPI network. This enrichment demonstrated that FAA was highly related to signal transduction, endocrine system, replication and repair, cell growth and death. The enrichment results also verified that the underlying mechanisms of FAA against breast cancer might be attributed to coordinated regulation of several cancer-related pathways, such as MAPK signaling pathway, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway, among of others.Conclusions: To summarize, this study aimed to identify the potential targets and pathways of FAA as a treatment against breast cancer using the network pharmacology approach, and systematically elucidate the mechanisms of FAA in the treatment of breast cancer.
Assessment of Fluralaner Treatment in Eliminating Dermanyssus Gallinae Infestation From Commercial Layer Farms, and the Potential for Derived Benefits of Improved Bird Welfare and Productivity.
Authors: Petersen Ivo , Johannhörster Katharina , Pagot Eric , Escribano Damian , Zschiesche Eva , Thomas Emmanuel
Published: December 2020

Background. Infestations with the poultry red mite (PRM), Dermanyssus gallinae, can result in anaemia, stress-related behaviours linked to reduced laying hen welfare, and impaired productivity. A study was conducted to investigate the potential welfare benefits of PRM elimination following fluralaner treatment.MethodsA single poultry house was selected on each of two layer farms, one free-range, one aviary, containing 5,400 Lohmann LSL hens and 42,400 Lohmann Brown hens, respectively. Fluralaner (Exzolt®; 0.5 mg/kg body weight) was administered twice, seven days apart (Weeks 0 and 1). Mite populations were regularly monitored by traps left in place for one to two days. Infra-red cameras monitored night-time hen behaviours weekly, beginning five weeks pre-treatment, continuing for five and six weeks post-treatment on the free-range and aviary farms, respectively. Weekly daytime behaviours were recorded on the free-range farm. On the aviary farm, blood samples were collected from 50 randomly selected hens during Weeks -3, -1 and 5. On the free-range farm, eggs were randomly collected for corticosterone analysis during Weeks -6, 0 and 6, and on the aviary farm during Weeks -3, -1 and 5. Production parameters were assessed using farm records.ResultsFluralaner efficacy on the free-range farm was >99% following the first administration, and on the aviary farm was 100% at Week 1 and at all subsequent mite counts. On both farms, treatment was followed by significant reductions in night-time preening, head scratching, head shaking, and activity, and on the aviary farm in vertical wing shaking and gentle feather pecking. On the free-range farm there were significant daytime reductions in head scratching, head shaking and preening. Post-treatment increases in egg and plasma corticosterone were suggestive of stress factors extra to mite infestation. Red blood cell counts and haematocrit increased following treatment. On the free range farm, relative to standard production parameters for LSL hens, the decline in laying rate with increasing bird age was less than expected, and the increase in egg weight greater than expected. ConclusionFluralaner treatment eliminated mite challenge, leading to improved hen welfare and health, based on reductions in stress-related behaviours, and restoration of the anaemia-inducing effects of mite blood feeding.
Validating a Chief Compliant List for Low Resource Settings: A Methodologic Case Study
Authors: Hansoti Bhakti , Hahn Elizabeth , Rao Aditi , Harris Jordan , Jenson Alexander , Markadakis Nicholas , Moonat Sachin , Ousula Valerie , Pousson Amelia
Published: December 2020

Background:The chief or presenting complaint is the reason for seeking health care, often in the patient’s own words. In limited resource settings, a diagnosis-based approach to quantifying burden of disease is not possible, partly due to limited availability of an established lexicon or coding system. Collaboration with World Health Organization colleagues resulted in the creation of a pilot symptom list representing an attempt to standardize undifferentiated chief complaints in emergency and acute care settings. A validated universal chief complaint list would profoundly benefit clinicians, researchers, and policymakers world-wide by allowing the communication and development of system-level priorities based around the signs and symptoms most often experienced by the patients being served.Methods: This study was incorporated as a part of a larger prospective observational study on human immunodeficiency virus testing in Emergency Departments in South Africa. The pilot symptom list was used for chief complaint coding in three Emergency Departments. Data was collected on 3,357 patients using paper case report forms. Chief complaint terms were reviewed by two study team members to determine the frequency of concordance between the coded chief complaint term and the selected symptom(s) from the pilot symptom list.Results:Overall, 3,537 patients’ chief complaints were reviewed, of which 640 were identified as ‘potential mis-matches’. When considering the 191 confirmed mis-matches (29.8%), the Delphi process identified 6 (3.1%) false mismatches and 185 (96.9%) true mismatches. Significant chief-complaint clustering was identified with 9 sets of complaints frequently selected together for the same patient. “Pain” was used 2,076 times for 58.7% of all patients. Testing for validity and functionality of the initial draft dataset via user feedback and expert-panel modified Delphi analysis resulted in several substantial changes to the pilot symptom list.Conclusions:This study found that the pilot symptom list with aforementioned modifications could be applied to a low resource emergency system. Recommendations for additions, modifications, and/or deletions from the draft chief complaint list will improve validity and functionality of the list in low resource environments. Selecting a patient’s chief complaint from a validated list offers a vital tool to help triage patients, streamline emergency care delivery, and improve patient outcomes.
Prophylactic Application of Lavandula Angustifolia Mill. Oil and Its Active Component Linalyl Acetate Alleviate Comorbidity and Exacerbation Risk in Rats With Collagen-Induced Arthritis Accompanied by Chronic Nicotine-Induced Hypertension.
Authors: Seo Eunhye , Hsieh Yu Shan , Lee Jeong-Min , Shin You Kyoung , Seol Geun Hee
Published: December 2020

Background: Hypertension (HTN) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is more common in smokers than in non-smokers, increasing the risks of cardiovascular and skeletal muscle related comorbidities, but studies on pharmacological protection strategies are insufficient. Lavandula angustifolia Mill. (lavender) oil has traditionally been used for RA and HTN via its anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of lavender oil and its main component linalyl acetate on cardiovascular and skeletal muscle protection in a rat model of RA with chronic nicotine-induced HTN. Methods: Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), with or without chronic nicotine-induced HTN, were induced in Sprague-Dawley rats. Lavender or linalyl acetate (10 or 100 mg/kg/day) were administrated intraperitoneally to CIA plus chronic nicotine-induced HTN (H-CIA) rats. The effects of lavender and linalyl acetate was evaluated by measurement of hind paw thickness, body weight, blood pressure (BP), serum concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). In addition to above, histological analysis of thoracic aorta and gastrocnemius muscle were used. Results: BP was significantly higher, vascular endothelium more deteriorated and paw edema more severe in H-CIA than in CIA. Both groups showed clear signs of skeletal muscle atrophy and inflammation, but gastrocnemius muscle weight was lower and muscle inflammatory status worse in H-CIA than in CIA. Reduced mitochondrial function was observed only in H-CIA. Prophylactic application of 100 mg/kg lavender oil or linalyl acetate kept IL-6 levels to the normal range and reduced hind paw edema and systolic BP. Linalyl acetate 100 mg/kg was the only treatment that maintained diastolic BP and IGF-1 in their normal ranges and prevented vascular endothelial damage. These treatments also reduced inflammation of the gastrocnemius muscle and inhibited mitochondrial dysfunction while tending to increase muscle mass. Conclusions: Chronic nicotine exposure induces defects that increase the risks of cardiovascular disease and muscle weakness, and application of lavender and linalyl acetate reduced the risks, especially, linalyl acetated alleviated vascular endothelial damage along with maintained IGF-1 level. Current results encourage smokers at high risk for RA to quit smoking, and further suggest that linalyl acetate is a useful agent to prevent cardiovascular and skeletal muscle related comorbidities.
Estimation of Intracranial Pressure by Ultrasound of the Optic Nerve Sheath in an Animal Model of Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Jeng Brasil Chian , Andrade Almir Ferreira de , Brasil Sérgio , Bor-Seng-Shu Edson , Belon Alessandro Rodrigo , Robertis Maira , de-Lima-Oliveira Marcelo , Rubiano Andrés Mariano , Godoy Daniel Agustín , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen , Paiva Wellingson Silva
Published: December 2020

Background: Invasive monitoring of intracranial pressure (ICP) is currently the gold standard method for the safe diagnosis and treatment of intracranial hypertension (ICHy), but it is subject to hemorrhage, infection and malfunction. Ultrasound of the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) has been applied as a non-invasive alternative that is cost effective and available at the bedside. However, ONSD time-lapse behavior in a set of ICHy and its relief by means of whether saline infusion or surgery is still unknown. The objective of this study was to correlate intracranial pressure and ultrasonography of the optic nerve sheath in an experimental animal model of ICHy, and the interval needed to ONSD to return to its baseline levels.Methods: An experimental study was conducted on 30 male and female pigs weighing about 20 kg. The diameter of the optic nerve sheath was evaluated by ultrasound at different measures of ICP given by intraventricular catheter and intracranial balloon inflation, saline infusion and balloon deflation. Laboratory and hemodynamic data were collected from the animals. ICP and ONSD values were correlated at each time point of the study.Results: All the variables obtained by ONSD ultrasonography as left optic nerve, right optic nerve and average of optic nerve sheath (AON) diameter were statistically significant to estimate ICP value. ONSD values changed immediately at balloon inflation, with a delay of 30 minutes average to return to baseline levels after balloon deflation (p = 0.016). No statistical significance was observed in ICP and ONSD values with hypertonic saline infusion. Correlation between ICP and ONSD was linear and can be estimated using the formula: -80.5 + 238.2 x AON, in this swine model. Conclusion: In the present study, ultrasound of optic nerve sheath diameter disclosed linear correlation with ICP, although a short delay in returning to its baseline levels may be observed in the case of sudden intracranial hypertension relief.
Gold nanoclusters augment a fluoroquinolone lethality against biofilm associated persister cells
Authors: Bekale Laurent , Maria Peter L. Santa , Cao Zhixin , Chen Xiaohua , Xia Anping , Bacacao Brian , Tran Jessica , Chen Jing
Published: December 2020

Persister cells are an important medical concern, leading to the overuse of antibiotics and ultimately contributing to antimicrobial resistance. The use of an adjuvant that augments the antibiotic efficacy has yet to be explored for combating persister cells within biofilm infections. Here we demonstrate a paradigm shift in targeting bacteria in chronic infections by coadministration of a conventional antibiotic with a novel engineered gold nanocluster (AuNC@CPP). AuNC@CPP was found to reduce the minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) of ofloxacin up to 300-fold (from > 3000 μg/mL to 10 μg/mL). Compared to ofloxacin alone (FLOXIN®Otic), coadministration of ofloxacin with AuNC@CPP induces up to a 10,000-fold reduction in bacterial burden in a validated mouse model of chronic P. aeruginosa of ear infection mimicking chronic suppurative otitis media. The biocompatibility of AuNC@CPP encourages efforts for development as an antibiotic adjunct for combating bacterial biofilm infections.
The Prognostic Value of High-risk Human Papillomavirus Infection Status in Surgically Treated Stage IB1-IIA2 Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zeng Jia , Zuo Jing , Li Ning , Yao HongWen , Wang TianTian , Li Jian , Xiu Lin , Yu Jing , Liang LeiLei , Zhao YuXi , Wu LingYing
Published: December 2020

Background: High-risk HPV(hr-HPV) infection is important for the development of invasive cervical cancer. As a developing country with the largest population in the world, China has a great burden of cervical cancer. The cervical cancer screening strategies consisted of cytology and virology, which has been studied by HPV-typing test and HPV-DNA quantitative test since decades ago. The cervical cancer incidence rate has been declined due to the early treatment of precancerous lesions, but postoperative HPV infection is still an issue for cervical cancer patients. This study aims to investigate the association between HPV infection status and recurrence of early-stage cervical cancer through a novel PCR-based HPV test, which could do both HPV typing-test and DNA quantitative-test. Methods: Patients diagnosed with cervical cancer staged IB1- IIA2, who were treated by radical hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy at Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(CAMS) between January 2014 and December 2016 were accrued. The clinicopathological factors, pre- and post-operative HPV infection status, and the prognosis were investigated. Cox regression was used to identify factors associated with LRFS, MFS and OS. Results: A total of 312 patients were enrolled in this study, who were treated by radical resection and accepted pre- and post-operative HPV tests, with a median follow-up time of 60 months(range 14~79 months). The 5-year LRFS rate, MFS rate, and OS rate were 97.8%, 98.4%, and 98.7%. The pre-operative HPV infection rate was 85.3%(266/312), 74 patients had a high level of HPV-DNA(>5x106 copy number/104 cells). Twenty-nine patients had a postoperative persistent high level of HPV-DNA(9.3%). Postoperative persistent high level of HPV-DNA within 12 months(p=0.013), postoperative persistence of HPV-16/18 within 24 months(p=0.004), and deep stromal invasion(>2/3)(p=0.007) were associated with a poor LRFS.Conclusion: Pre-operative HPV-16/18 infection and high level of HPV-DNA were not associated with local recurrence of cervical cancer. Most initial HPV-positive patients had HPV cleared within 24 months postoperatively. Postoperative HPV-16/18 persistence within 24 months, postoperative persistence of high HPV-DNA level within 24 months, and deep stromal invasion(>2/3) were independent risk factors for local recurrence of cervical cancer.
A Rare Case of Stage IV Adrenocortical Carcinoma with Acute Adrenocortical Dysfunction After Trans-Catheter Arterial Chemo-Embolization (TACE)
Authors: Wang Zhilong , Sun Xin , Zhang Fengli , Wang Ting , Li Ping
Published: December 2020

Background: Adrenocortical carcinoma(ACC) is a rare and highly invasive endocrine malignant tumor with poor prognosis and insensitivity tochemotherapy, which don't have effective treatment. Although Surgical resection is considered to be the main treatment for ACC, postoperative recurrence and metastasis have become the most important factors of death. Therefore, local treatments such as trans-catheter arterial chemo-embolization, radiofrequency ablation become be new treatment for ACC. Trans-catheter arterial chemo-embolization therapy for ACC patients with liver metastasis has good efficacy and can effectively reduce the tumor burden of patients, which is considered to be safe and easy for patients. Case presentation: We report a 47-year-old female patient diagnosed with stage Ⅳ ACC with liver metastases, who developed symptoms of acute adrenocortical dysfunctions after hepatic arterial catheter chemo-embolization.Conclusion: Trans-catheter arterial chemo-embolization therapy for ACC patients with liver metastasis is not completely safe, and there is a certain probability that it will lead to secondary adrenal dysfunction. Hydrocortisone supplementation can effectively alleviate the symptoms.
Correlation Between CCND1 Gene Polymorphism and Genetic Susceptibility to Gastric Cancer in Chinese Population
Authors: Pan Huiwen , Gu Xuyu , Zou Chen , Chen Keping , Fan Yu
Published: December 2020

Objective: The relationship between Cyclin D1 gene (CCND1) rs9344 polymorphism and susceptibility to gastric cancer (GC) is investigated.Methods: In a case-control study, we selected 577 cases of GC from The People's Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University in China along with 678 normal controls. Blood DNA was extracted and PCR amplified, gene polymorphism was determined using Snapshot method.Results: Analysis reveals significant difference in smoking between GC and control groups (P=0.006), however, not on polymorphism (P＞0.05). Conclusion: Smoking is associated with gastric cancer, whereas CCND1 rs9344 polymorphism does not implicate susceptibility of gastric cancer.