bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation in plastid genomes in the gynodioecious species Silene vulgaris
Authors: Krüger Manuela , Abeyawardana Oushadee A.J. , Juricek Miloslav , Krüger Claudia , Storchova Helena
Published: November 2019

Background Gynodioecious species exist in two genders – male-sterile females and hermaphrodites. Male sterility in higher plants often results from mitonuclear interaction between the CMS (cytoplasmic male sterility) gene(s) encoded by mitochondrial genome and by nuclear-encoded restorer genes. Mitochondrial and nuclear-encoded transcriptomes in females and hermaphrodites are intensively studied, but little is known about gender-specific gene expression in plastids. We have compared plastid transcriptomes between females and hermaphrodites in two haplotypes of a gynodioecious species Silene vulgaris with known CMS candidate genes. Results We generated complete plastid genome sequences from five haplotypes S. vulgaris including the haplotypes KRA and KOV, for which complete mitochondrial genome sequences were already published. We constructed a phylogenetic tree based on plastid sequences of S. vulgaris. Whereas lowland S. vulgaris haplotypes including KRA and KOV clustered together, the accessions from high European mountains diverged early in the phylogram. S. vulgaris belongs among Silene species with slowly evolving plastid genomes, but we still detected 212 substitutions and 112 indels between two accessions of this species. We estimated elevated Ka/Ks in the ndhF gene, which may reflect the adaptation of S. vulgaris to high altitudes, or relaxed selection. We compared depth of coverage and editing rates between female and hermaphrodite plastid transcriptomes and found no significant differences between the two genders. We identified 51 unique C to U editing sites in the plastid genomes of S. vulgaris, 38 of them in protein coding regions, 2 in introns, and 11 in intergenic regions. The editing site in the psbZ gene was edited only in one of two plastid genomes under study. Conclusions We revealed no significant differences between the genders in plastid transcriptomes of two haplotypes of S. vulgaris. It suggests that gene expression of plastid genes is not affected by CMS in flower buds of S. vulgaris, although both genders may still differ in plastid gene expression in specific tissues. We revealed the difference between the plastid transcriptomes of two S. vulgaris haplotypes in editing rate and in the coverage of several antisense transcripts. Our results document the variation in plastid genomes and transcriptomes in S. vulgaris.
Inequity in healthcare needs, health service use and financial burden of medical expenditures in China: results from a consecutive household monitoring study in Jiangsu Province
Authors: Jiang Weixi , Xu Xiaolin , Tang Shenglan , Xu Ling , Zhang Yaoguang , Elbers Chris , Cobelens Frank , Yan Lijing
Published: November 2019

Background: Although public medical insurance covers over 95% of the population in China, disparities in health service use and out-of-pocket (OOP) health expenditure across income groups are still widely observed. This study aims to investigate the socio-economic disparities in perceived healthcare needs, informal care, formal care and payment for healthcare and explore their equity implication.
Methods: We assessed healthcare needs, service use and payment in 400 households in rural and urban areas in Jiangsu, China, and included only the adult sample (N=925). One baseline survey and 10 follow-up surveys were conducted during the 7-month monitoring period, and the Affordability Ladder Program (ALP) framework was adopted for data analysis. Negative binomial/zero-inflated negative binomial and logit regression models were used to explore factors associated with perceived needs of care and with the use of self-treatment, outpatient and inpatient care respectively. Two-part model and logit regression modeling were conducted to explore factors associated with OOP health expenditure and with the likelihood of incurring catastrophic health expenditure (CHE).
Results : After adjusting for covariates, rural residence was significantly associated with more perceived healthcare needs, more self-treatment, higher probability of using outpatient and inpatient service, more OOP health expenditure and higher likelihood of incurring catastrophic expenditure ( P <0.05). Compared to the Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance (UEBMI), enrollment in the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme (NRCMS) or in the Urban Resident Basic Medical Insurance (URBMI) was correlated with lower probability of ever using outpatient services, but with more outpatient visits when people were at risk of using outpatient service ( P <0.05). NRCMS/URBMI enrollment was also associated with higher likelihood of incurring CHE compared to UEBMI enrollment (OR=2.02, P <0.05); in stratified analysis of the rural and urban sample this effect was only significant for the rural population.
Conclusions: The rural population in Jiangsu perceived more healthcare needs, had a higher probability of using both informal and formal healthcare services, and had more OOP health expenditure and a higher likelihood of incurring CHE. The inequity mainly exists in health care financing, and may be partially addressed through improving the benefit packages of NRCMS/URBMI.
The Safe Start trial to assess the effect of an infant hygiene intervention on enteric infections and diarrhoea in low-income informal neighbourhoods of Kisumu, Kenya: a study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mumma Jane Awiti Odhiambo , Simiyu Sheillah , Aseyo Evalyne , Anderson John , Czerniewska Alexandra , Allen Elizabeth , Dreibelbis Robert , Baker Kelly K. , Cumming Oliver
Published: November 2019

Background
Symptomatic and asymptomatic enteric infections in early childhood are associated with negative effects on childhood growth and development, especially in low and middle-income countries, and food may be an important transmission route. Although basic food hygiene practices might reduce exposure to faecal pathogens and resulting infections, there have been few rigorous interventions studies to assess this, especially in low-income urban settings. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of a novel infant food hygiene intervention on infant enteric infections and diarrhoea in peri-urban settlements of Kisumu, Kenya.

Methods
This is a cluster randomized control trial with 50 clusters, representing the catchment areas of Community Health Volunteers (CHVs), randomly assigned to intervention or control, and a total of 750 infants recruited on a rolling basis at 22 weeks of age and then followed for 15 weeks. The intervention targets four key caregiver behaviours related to food hygiene: 1) hand washing with soap before infant food preparation and feeding; 2) bringing all infant food to the boil before feeding; 3) storing all infant food in sealed containers; and, 4) using only specific utensils for infant feeding which are kept separate and clean.

Results
The primary outcome of interest is the prevalence of one or more of 23 pre-specified enteric infections, determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for enteric pathogen gene targets. In addition, infant food samples were collected at 33 weeks, and faecal indicator bacteria ( Enterococcus ) isolated and enumerated to assess the impact of the intervention on infant food contamination.

Conclusion
To our knowledge this is the first randomized controlled trial to assess the effect of an infant food hygiene intervention on enteric infections in a high burden, low income urban setting. Our trial responds to growing evidence that food may be a key pathway for early childhood enteric infection and disease and that basic food hygiene behaviours may be able to mitigate these risks. The trial seeks to provide new evidence as to whether a locally appropriate infant food hygiene intervention delivered through the extension system can improve the health of young children.
Human papillomavirus type 18 oncoproteins exert their oncogenicity in esophageal and tongue squamous cell carcinoma cell lines distinctly
Authors: Boon Siaw Shi , Chen Zigui , Li Jintao , Ching Karen Lee Yin , Cai Liuyang , Zhong Rugang , Chan Paul Kay Sheung
Published: November 2019

Increasing evidence indicates an etiological role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). However, the association between HPV and other cancers, including esophageal and tongue remains unclear. This study delineated the molecular characteristics of HPV18 E6 and E7 in esophageal (EC109 and EC9706) and tongue (Tca83) cancer cell lines with reference to cervical cancer (HeLa). Overall, the HPV transcription profiles of esophageal and tongue cancer cells mimicked that of cervical cancer cells, with notable disruption of E2, and expression of E6, spliced E6 (E6*), E7, E1 and L1 transcripts. As with cervical cancer cells, p53 and its downstream transactivation target, p21, were found to be the major targets of E6 in esophageal and tongue cancer cell lines. Intriguingly, E7 preferentially targeted p130 in the two esophageal cancer cell lines, instead of pRb as in cervical cancer. Tca83 exhibited an E7 to E6 transcript ratio comparable to HeLa (cervix), targeted the ERK1/2 and MMP2 pathways, and was dependent on E6 and E7 to survive and proliferate. In contrast, both the esophageal cancer cell lines were distinct from HeLa in these aspects. In conclusion, this is the first study that delineates transcript expression and protein interaction of HPV18 E6 and E7 in esophageal and tongue cancer cell lines, suggesting that HPV plays a role in inducing these cancers, albeit via distinct pathways than those observed in cervical cancer.
Serum levels of the chemokine CCL2 are elevated in malignant pleural mesothelioma patients
Authors: Kishimoto Takumi , Fujimoto Nobukazu , Ebara Takeshi , Omori Toyonori , Oguri Tetsuya , Niimi Akio , Yokoyama Takako , Kato Munehiro , Usami Ikuji , Nishio Masayuki , Yoshikawa Kosho , Tokuyama Takeshi , Tamura Mouka , Yokoyama Yoshifumi , Tsuboi Ken , Matsuo Yoichi , Xu Jiegou , Takahashi Satoru , Abdelgied Mohamed , Alexander William T. , Alexander David B , Tsuda Hiroyuki
Published: November 2019

Background: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a debilitating disease of the pleural cavity. It is primarily associated with previous inhalation of asbestos fibers. These fibers initiate an oxidant coupled inflammatory response. Repeated exposure to asbestos fibers results in a prolonged inflammatory response and cycles of tissue damage and repair. The inflammation-associated cycles of tissue damage and repair are intimately involved in the development of asbestos-associated cancers. Macrophages are a key component of asbestos-associated inflammation and play essential roles in the etiology of a variety of cancers. Macrophages are also a source of C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), and a variety of tumor-types express CCL2. High levels of CCL2 are present in the pleural effusions of mesothelioma patients, however, CCL2 has not been examined in the serum of mesothelioma patients.
Methods: The present study was carried out with 50 MPM patients and 356 subjects who were possibly exposed to asbestos but did not have disease symptoms and 41 healthy volunteers without a history of exposure to asbestos. The levels of CCL2 in the serum of the study participants was determined using ELISA.
Results: Levels of CCL2 were significantly elevated in the serum of patients with advanced MPM patients.
Conclusions: Our findings are consistent with the premise that the CCL2/CCR2 axis and myeloid-derived cells play an important role in MPM and disease progression. Therapies are being developed that target CCL2/CCR2 and tumor resident myeloid cells, and clinical trials are being pursued that use these therapies as part of the treatment regimen. The results of trials with patients with a similar serum CCL2 pattern as MPM patients will have important implications for the treatment of MPM.
WITHDRAWN: Successful implementation of an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol reduces nausea and vomiting in patients after infratentorial craniotomy for tumour resection: a randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Lu Dan , Wang Yuan , Zhao Tianzhi , Liu Bolin , Ye Lin , Zhao Lanfu , Zhao Binfang , Li Mingjuan , Ma Lin , Li Zhengmin , Niu Jiangtao , Lv Wenhai , Zhang Yufu , Zheng Tao , Xue Yafei , Chen Lei , Chen Long , Sun Xude , Gao Guodong , Chen Bo , He Shiming
Published: November 2019

Objectives: Infratentorial craniotomy patients have a high incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have been shown in multiple surgical disciplines to improve outcomes, including reduced PONV. However, very few studies have described the application of ERAS to infratentorial craniotomy. The aim of this study was to examine whether our ERAS protocol for infratentorial craniotomy could improve PONV.
Methods: We implemented an evidence-based, multimodal ERAS protocol for patients undergoing infratentorial craniotomy. A total of 105 patients who underwent infratentorial craniotomy were randomized into either the ERAS group (n = 50) or the control group (n = 55). Primary outcomes were the incidence of vomiting, nausea score, and use of rescue antiemetic during the first 72 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes included postoperative anxiety level, sleep quality, and complications.
Results: Over the entire 72 h post-craniotomy observation period, the cumulative incidence of vomiting was significantly lower in the ERAS group than in the control group. Meanwhile, the incidence of vomiting was significantly lower in the ERAS group on postoperative days (PODs) 2 and 3. Notably, the proportion of patients with mild nausea (VAS 0-4) was higher in the ERAS group as compared to the control group on PODs 2 or 3. Additionally, the postoperative anxiety level and quality of sleep were significantly better in the ERAS group.
Conclusion: Successful implementation of our ERAS protocol in infratentorial craniotomy patients could attenuate postoperative anxiety, improve sleep quality, and reduce the incidence of PONV, without increasing the rate of postoperative complications.
Association of Maternal Ethnicity and Urbanicity on Severe Pediatric Disease: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Chang Ya-Ting , Wang Huei-Shyong , Liu Jia-Rou , Tseng Chi-Nan , Chou I-Jun , Luo Shue-Fen , Kuo Chang-Fu , See Lai-Chu
Published: November 2019

Background A healthy migrant effect on birth outcomes has been reported, however, whether this protective effect persists throughout childhood is unknown. The effect of urbanicity on child health among an immigrant population is unclear. Objectives We compared the incidence rate and cumulative incidence of severe diseases among urban children of Taiwan-born mothers, rural children of Taiwan-born mothers, urban children of foreign-born mothers, and rural children of foreign-born mothers. Methods A nationwide cohort study was conducted for children born in Taiwan during 2004-2011 and follow-up till age 4 to 11 years old by linkage the Taiwan Birth Registry 2004-2011, Taiwan Death Registry 2004-2015, and National Health Insurance Research Database 2004-2015. Cox proportional hazards model (multivariable) was used to examine differences among the four study groups. Results There were 682,982 urban children of Taiwan-born mothers, 662,818 rural children of Taiwan-born mothers, 61,570 urban children of foreign-born mothers, 87,473 rural children of foreign-born mothers. Children of foreign-born mothers had a lower incidence of vasculitis, mainly Kawasaki disease. The incidences of congenital disorders did not differ between children of foreign-born mothers and children of Taiwan-born mothers. The incidence of psychotic disorders was higher in urban children. However, children in rural areas had a higher incidence of major trauma/burn and a higher mortality rate. Conclusions A healthy migrant effect was only seen for Kawasaki disease. The mental health of urban children born to immigrant mothers warrants concern.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Asian and European Common Wheat Accessions Based on Genotyping-By-Sequencing
Authors: Yang Xiu , Xi Ling , Tan Binwen , Zhu Wei , Xu Lili , Wang Yi , Fan Xing , Sha Lina , Zhang Haiqin , Zeng Jian , Chen Guoyue , Ma Jian , Hu Xigui , Zhou Yonghong , Kang Houyang
Published: November 2019

Background Availability of information on the genetic diversity and population structure of germplasm facilitates its use in wheat breeding programs. Recently, with the development of next-generation sequencing technology, genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) has been used as a high-throughput and cost-effective molecular tool for examination of the genetic diversity of wheat breeding lines. In this study, GBS was used to characterize a population of 180 accessions of common wheat originating from Asia and Europe between the latitudes 30° and 45°N.Results In total, 24,767 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were used for analysis of genetic diversity and population structure. The B genome contained the highest number of SNPs, followed by the A and D genomes. The polymorphism information content ranged from 0.1 to 0.4, with an average of 0.26. The distribution of SNPs markers on the 21 chromosomes ranged from 243 on chromosome 4D to 2,337 on chromosome 3B. Structure and cluster analyses divided the panel of accessions into two subgroups (G1 and G2). G1 principally consisted of European and partial Asian accessions, and G2 comprised mainly accessions from the Middle East and partial Asia. Molecular analysis of variance showed that the genetic variation was greater within groups (99%) than between groups (1%). Comparison of the two subgroups indicated that G1 and G2 contained a high level of genetic diversity. The genetic diversity of G2 was higher as indicated by the Shannon’s information index ( I ) = 0.512, diversity index ( h ) = 0.334, observed heterozygosity ( H o ) = 0.226, and unbiased diversity index (uh) = 0.338.Conclusion The present results will not only help breeders to understand the genetic diversity of wheat germplasm on the Eurasian continent between the latitudes of 30° and 45°N, but also provide valuable information for wheat genetic improvement through introgression of novel genetic variation in this region.
Ginsenosides facilitate the anti-cancer efficacy of cyclophosphamide via modulating intestinal bacteria and alleviating intestinal mucositis in mammary carcinoma mice
Authors: Zhu He , He Yi-Sheng , Zhou Jing , Ma Jiang , Wu Cheng-Yin , Kong Ming , Mao Qian , Lin Ge , Li SongLin
Published: November 2019

Background: Ginsenosides has been reported to facilitate the chemotherapy of cyclophosphamide (CTX), but the underlying mechanism is still elusive. Here, ICR mice bearing subcutaneous 4T1 tumor (mouse mammary carcinoma cells) were used to investigate the enhanced chemotherapeutic effects and underlying the mechanism of concurrent administration of ginsenosides and CTX. Results: Combinational treatment with ginsenosides in mice enhanced the anti-cancer efficacy of CTX as observed by elevated tumor growth inhibition rate, prolonged survival rate, decreased tumor burden and increased apoptosis in tumor tissues. The mechanism underlying the enhancing effects involved the elevation of the anti-cancer immunity, which manifested as accelerating anti-cancer cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, TNF-α and INF-γ) that was further ascribed to the ginsenosides-induced generation of intestinal probiotics including Bifidobacterium, Akkermansia and Lactobacillus. Moreover, through activating Nrf2 and inhibiting NFκB pathways, ginsenosides reversed CTX-induced intestinal mucositis by maintaining normal intestinal permeability and junction proteins function. Conclusion: Ginsenosides ameliorate CTX-induced intestinal mucositis and promote anti-cancer immunity via maintaining intestinal homeostasis, consequently enhancing the anti-cancer efficacy of CTX.
Medical Debt and Catastrophic Health Expenditures among Middle- and Low-Income Families in China
Authors: Li Jiajing , Jiao Chen , Xu Lizheng , Nicholas Stephen , Wang Jian
Published: November 2019

Background Medical debt is a persistent global issue and a crucial and effective indicator of long-term family medical financial burden. This paper fills a research gap on the incidence and causes of medical debt in Chinese low and middle-income households.Method Data was obtained from the 2015 China Household Finance Survey and medical debt measured as borrowings from families, friends and third parties. Tobit regression models were used to analyze the data. The concentration index was employed to measure the extent of socioeconomic inequality in medical debt incidence.Results We found that 2.42% of middle-income families had a medical debt, averaging US$6278.25, or 0.56 times household yearly income; and 3.92% of low-income families had medical debts averaging US$5419.88, which was equivalent to 2.49 times household yearly income. The concentration index for low and middle-income families’ medical debt was significantly pro-poor. Medical debt impoverished about 10% of all non-poverty households and pushed poor households deeper into poverty. While catastrophic health expenditure was the single most important factor in medial debt, age, education, and health status of householder, hospitalization and types of medical insurance were also significant factors determining medical debt.Conclusions Using a narrow definition of medical debt, the incidence of medical debt in Chinese low and middle-income households was relatively low. But, once medical debt happened, it imposed a long-term financial burden on medical indebted families, tipping many low and middle-income households into poverty and imposing on households several years of debt repayments. Further studies need to use broader definitions of medical debt to better assess the long-term financial impact of medical debt on Chinese families. Policy makers need to modify basic medical insurance schemes to manage out-of-pocket medical expenses better and take account of pre-existing medical debt when addressing this problem.
A Systematic Review on the Feasibility of Salivary Biomarkers for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Bouftas Mohamed
Published: November 2019

Background: Early AD diagnosis is critical for ameliorating prognosis and treatment. The analysis of CSF biomarkers yields accurate results, but it necessitates a lumbar puncture procedure. Screening for peripheral biomarkers in saliva is advantageous since this medium is noninvasive and inexpensive to obtain. The objective of this systematic review is to analyze saliva biomarker studies which aim to diagnose AD.

Methods: Titles, abstracts, and reference lists for publications from February 2004 to March 2019 were screened for by searching Google Scholar and PubMed. The inclusion criteria involved published studies that consisted of both AD and control groups.

Results: 77 studies were screened, and 13 publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria. These selected publications were scrutinized and included in this review. Numerous biomarkers were analyzed, including Aβ42, tau, and various salivary metabolites.

Conclusion: Aβ42, tau, lactoferrin, and various metabolites might serve as a reliable biomarkers for AD diagnosis. However, these studies must be replicated with a large sample size. It is also important to standardize the analytical methods of measuring salivary biomarkers to establish coherence for the selection of valid AD biomarkers. Saliva composition can be affected by production rate, circadian rhythms, and oral health, so their cumulative effect on the accuracy of saliva testing requires further investigation.

Keywords: Alzheimer, biomarker, saliva
International Palliative Care Research Priorities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hasson Felicity , Nicholson Emma , Muldrew Deborah , Bamidele Olufikayo , Payne Sheila , McIlfatrick Sonja
Published: November 2019

Background : There has been increasing evidence and debate on palliative care research priorities and the international research agenda. To date, however, there is a lack of synthesis of this evidence, examining commonalities, differences, and gaps. To identify and synthesize literature on international palliative care research priorities mapped to a quality assessment framework.Methods: A systematic review of several academic and grey databases were searched from January 2008- June 2019 for studies eliciting research priorities in palliative care in English. Two researchers independently reviewed, critically appraised, and conducted data extraction and synthesis.Results: The search yielded 10,325 of which ten were included for appraisal and review.Priority areas were identified: service models; continuity of care; training and education; inequality; communication; living well and independently; and recognising family/carer needs and the importance of families. Methodological approaches and process of reporting varied. There was little representation of patient and caregiver driven agendas. The priorities were mapped to the Donabedian framework for assessing quality reflecting structure, process and outcomes and key priority areas. Conclusions : Limited evidence exists pertaining to research priorities across palliative care. Whilst a broad range of topics were elicited, approaches and samples varied questioning the credibility of findings. The voice of the care provider dominated, calling for more inclusive means to capture the patient and family voice. The findings of this study may serve as a template to understand the commonalities of research, identify gaps, and extend the palliative care research agenda.
Molecular methods for tracking residual P. falciparum transmission in a close-to-elimination setting in Zanzibar
Authors: Grossenbacher Benjamin , Holzschuh Aurel , Hofmann Natalie , Omar Kali Abdullah , Stuck Logan , Fakih Bakar Shariff , Ali Abdullah S. , Yukich Joshua , Hetzel Manuel W , Felger Ingrid
Published: November 2019

Background Molecular detection of low-density Plasmodium falciparum infections is essential for surveillance studies conducted to inform malaria control strategies in close-to-elimination settings. Molecular monitoring of residual malaria infections usually requires a large study size, therefore sampling and diagnostic processes need to be economical and optimized for high-throughput. In a method comparison, we aimed at identifying the most efficient diagnostic procedure for processing large collections of community samples with optimal test sensitivity, simplicity, and minimal costs.Methods In a reactive case detection study conducted on Zanzibar, parasitemia of 4590 individuals of all ages was investigated by a highly sensitive quantitative (q) PCR that targets multiple var gene copies per parasite genome. To reduce cost, a first round of positivity screening was performed on pools of dried blood spots from five individuals. Ten cycles of a pre-PCR were performed directly on the filter paper punches, followed by qPCR. In a second round, samples of positive pools were individually analyzed by pre-PCR and qPCR.Results Prevalence in household members and neighbors of index cases was 1.7% (78/4590) with a geometric mean parasite density of 58 parasites/µl blood. Using qPCR as gold standard, diagnostic sensitivity of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) was 37% (29/78). Infections positive by qPCR but negative by RDT had mean densities of 15 parasites/µl blood. Conclusion The approach of pre-screening reactive case detection samples in pools of five was ideal for a low prevalence setting such as in Zanzibar. Performing direct PCR on filter paper punches saves substantial time and justifies the higher cost for a polymerase suitable for amplifying DNA directly from whole blood. Molecular monitoring in community samples provided a more accurate picture of infection prevalence compared to RDT results alone, by identifying a reservoir of infection which is largely missed by RDT. qPCR as a research and surveillance tool can great benefits the evaluation of strategies or programs to eliminate malaria.
Transcriptome analysis reveals the cotton defense mechanism in response to Verticillium dahliae in the presence of the biocontrol fungus Chaetomium globosum CEF-082
Authors: Zhang Yun , Yang Na , Zhao Lihong , Zhu Heqin , Tang Canming
Published: November 2019

Background: Verticillium wilt of cotton is a serious soil-borne disease that causes a substantial reduction in cotton yields. A previous study showed that the endophytic fungus Chaetomium globosum CEF-082 could control Verticillium wilt of cotton, and induce a defense response in cotton plants. However, the comprehensive molecular mechanism governing this response is not clear. Results: To study the signalling mechanism induced by CEF-082, the transcriptome of cotton seedlings pretreated with CEF-082 was sequenced. The results revealed 5638 DEGs at 24 h post inoculation with CEF-082, and 2921 and 2153 DEGs at 12 and 48 h post inoculation with Verticillium dahliae, respectively. At 24 h post inoculation with CEF-082, KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that the DEGs were enriched mainly in the plant-pathogen interaction, MAPK signalling pathway-plant, flavonoid biosynthesis, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways. There were 1209 DEGs specifically induced only in cotton plants inoculated with V. dahliae in the presence of the biocontrol fungus CEF-082, and not when cotton plants were only inoculated with V. dahliae. GO enrichment analysis revealed that these DEGs were enriched mainly in the following terms: ROS metabolic process, H2O2 metabolic process, defense response, superoxide dismutase activity, and antioxidant activity. Moreover, many genes, such as ERF, CNGC, FLS2, MYB, GST and CML genes, were identified that regulate crucial points in defence-related pathways and that may contribute to V. dahliae resistance in cotton. These results provide a basis for the understanding of the molecular mechanism by which biocontrol fungus CEF-082 increased the resistance of cotton to Verticillium wilt. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that CEF-082 could regulate multiple metabolic pathways in cotton. After treatment with V. dahliae, the defense response of cotton plants preinoculated with CEF-082 was strengthened.
The acute effects of resistance training on fatigue in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis
Authors: Grongstad Anita , Vøllestad Nina Køpke , Oldervoll Line Merethe , Spruit Martijn A , Edvardsen Anne
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Sarcoidosis-related fatigue and skeletal muscle dysfunction are frequent symptoms in patients with sarcoidosis. Despite lacking knowledge whether high-intensity resistance training (RT) will worsen fatigue, low to moderate intensity is commonly recommended. This study aimed to investigate whether a single session of high-intensity RT will induce a larger acute increase in fatigue than a single RT session of moderate-intensity. Methods: In this crossover study, 41 patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis (age: 53 ± 11 yr) were recruited. They randomly performed one session of high-intensity, 4 sets x 5 repetitions maximum (5RM), and one session of moderate-intensity, 2 sets x 25 RM. Fatigue was assessed with the Visual Analogue Scale (0-100 mm) before (T0), immediately after (T1) and 24 hours after (T2) each exercise session. Results: Fatigue development from T0 to T1 was significantly lower after 5RM (– 3 ± 18 mm) than after 25RM (5 ± 15 mm), p = 0.004. No difference was seen from T0 to T2 between 5RM (0 ± 17 mm) and 25RM (6 ± 18 mm), p = 0.147. Conclusion: Since the 5RM session did not induce a larger increase in fatigue than the 25RM session, a single session of RT thus appears feasible and safe in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis irrespective of the RT intensity. The long-term effects of high-intensity RT on fatigue should be explored in a RT program of longer duration.
The implications of platelet count changes during hospitalization in the disease management of pediatric patients with bronchiolitis
Authors: Sun Huiming , Xu Hua , Wang Ting , Yan Yongdong , Ji Wei , Zhu Canhong , Wang Yuqing , Hao Chuangli , Chen Zhengrong
Published: November 2019

Background: The clinical implications of platelet count changes in patients with bronchiolitis throughout hospitalization have not been extensively investigated. We aimed to investigate the significance of platelet count on admission and platelet count changes during hospitalization in pediatric patients with bronchiolitis. Methods: Clinical data from 559 consecutive patients hospitalized for bronchiolitis were collected and compared after grouping according to the platelet count on admission and the delta platelet count during hospitalization (the platelet count on discharge minus the platelet count on admission; Group A, delta platelet count ≤ -50 × 109/L; Group B, -50 × 109/L < delta platelet count ≤ 50 × 109/L; Group C, delta platelet count > 50 × 109/L). Results: Thrombocytosis was found in 122 (21.8%) patients, while 437 (78.2%) patients had a normal platelet count on admission. There was no difference in disease severity between these two groups. Groups A, B, and C comprised 79 (14.1%), 179 (32.0%), and 301 (53.9%) patients, respectively. The patients from Group A had a higher platelet count on admission, a lower platelet count on discharge, and a longer hospitalization duration. These patients had a lower concentration of C-reactive protein, longer periods of oxygen therapy and stay in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), and a greater frequency of mechanical ventilation than the patients from Group B or Group C. Notably, among all the patients, the delta platelet count [63 (-3–142) × 109/L] negatively correlated with the numbers of days of oxygen therapy [4.0 (3.0–6.0), day] (r = -0.186, P = 0.027) and stay in the PICU [5.0 (3.0–6.0), day] (r = -0.391, P = 0.001). Conclusions: Repeated assessment of platelet count during hospitalization in pediatric patients with bronchiolitis may provide useful information for disease management.
Plasma concentrations of NOX4 are predictive of successful liberation from mechanical ventilation and 28-day mortality in critically ill patients
Authors: Hong Yoonki , Park So Yeong , Woo Seong Ji , Kim Youngmi , Lee Jae Jun , Hong Ji Young
Published: November 2019

Background: Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) enzymes play important roles in generating reactive oxygen species; in particular, NOX4 plays a distinct role in regulating lung inflammation and apoptosis. Methods: We determined whether plasma NOX4 level can be used as a prognostic biomarker to guide weaning from mechanical ventilation. Plasma levels of NOX4 were measured at days 1 (NOX4d1) and 7(NOX4d7) after initiation of mechanical ventilation in 184 patients. Results: Median NOX4d7 levels in patients with extubation failure were significantly higher than those in patients with extubation success (24.2 ng/mL vs.15.2 ng/mL, P<0.001). On multivariate logistic regression, SOFA≥8 (odds ratio[OR]:2.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.26–5.59), mechanical ventilation time>11 days (OR: 3.36; 95% CI: 1.62–6.99), APACHE score >21 (OR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.03–4.52) and NOX4d7>18.2 ng/mL (OR: 3.13, 95% CI: 1.49–6.57) were associated with extubation failure.NOX4d7 level >18.2 ng/mL (hazard ratio[HR], 2.17; 95% CI, 1.19–3.97), coexisting cancer (HR: 2.22; 95% CI, 1.12–4.38), SOFA≥8 (HR: 2.06; 95% CI, 1.12–3.81) and APACHE>21 (HR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.05–3.18) were independently associated with 28-day mortality. Conclusions: Plasma NOX4 levels may help predict successful liberation from mechanical ventilation and 28-day mortality.
The role of high-risk HPV genotyping in the detection of high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia or cancer in women with negative cytology but positivity for HPV: A hospital-based investigation in northeastern China
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Deyu , Yang Zhuo , Wang Xiaobin , Wang Danbo
Published: November 2019

Background: The high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) test has a higher sensitivity for the detection of cervical precancerous lesions than cytology can provide. The present study aimed to analyze the prevalence of hrHPV genotypes and evaluate the role of HPV genotyping triage in the detection of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, adenocarcinoma in situ and cervical cancer (HSIL+) in women with negative cytology but hrHPV positivity.

Methods: A retrospective study was performed in women who underwent co-screening at the China Medical University-affiliated Shengjing Hospital between 2012 and 2014.

Results: Of the 34,587 women, 2,665 women were eligible for analysis with negative cytology and hrHPV positivity. In HSIL+ groups of 204 women, the common genotypes were HPV16, HPV52, HPV58, HPV33, HPV31 and HPV18. The detection rate of histological HSIL+ in women with HPV16 or HPV33 was significantly higher than that in patients with other hrHPV genotypes (P = 0.00, P = 0.03, respectively). The detection rates of histological HSIL+ in women infected with HPV33 or HPV31 had no significantly difference compared to women infected with HPV16 (P = 0.29, P = 0.19, respectively).The odds ratio (OR) for histological HSIL+ in women with HPV16/18/31/33 was higher than that in women with HPV16/18 (4.21 vs. 3.26). The OR for histological HSIL+ was 5.73 in women with HPV16/18/31/33/52/58. The addition of HPV31/33 genotyping to that of HPV16/18 increased the rate of HSIL+ detection from 63.2% to 77.5% (P = 0.002). Moreover, the colposcopy per HSIL+ detection ratio only increased slightly from 7.7 to 8.1.

Conclusion: HPV genotyping played an important role in managing women with negative cytology but hrHPV positivity. In northeastern China, the addition of HPV31/33 genotyping to that of HPV16/18 is deemed necessary in triaging women with a positive HPV test.
Effects of Low Versus Standard Pressure Pneumoperitoneum on Renal Syndecan-1 Shedding and VEGF Receptor-2 Expression in Living-donor Nephrectomy: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Aditianingsih Dita , Mochtar Chaidir Arif , Lydia Aida , Siregar Nuryati Chairani , Margyaningsih Nur Ita , Madjid Amir Sjarifuddin , Suwarto Suhendro
Published: November 2019

Background
Laparoscopic nephrectomy is a preferred technique for living kidney donation. However, positive-pressure pneumoperitoneum may have an unfavorable effect on the remaining kidney and other distant organs due to inflamed vascular endothelium and renal tubular cell injury in response to increased systemic inflammation. Early detection of vascular endothelial and renal tubular response is needed to prevent further kidney injury due to increased intraabdominal pressure induced by pneumoperitoneum. Transperitoneal laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy represented a human model of mild increasing intraabdominal pressure. This study aimed to assess the effect of increased intraabdominal pressure on vascular endothelium and renal tubular cells by comparing the effects of low and standard pressure pneumoperitoneum on vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) expression and the shedding of syndecan-1 as the early markers to a systemic inflammation.
Methods
We conducted a prospective randomized study on 44 patients undergoing laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. Subjects were assigned to standard (12 mmHg) or low pressure (8 mmHg) groups. Baseline, intraoperative, and postoperative plasma interleukin-6, syndecan-1, and sVEGFR-2 were quantified by ELISA. Syndecan-1 and VEGFR-2 expression were assessed immunohistochemically in renal cortex tissue. Renal tubule and peritubular capillary ultrastructures were examined using electron microscopy. Perioperative hemodynamic changes, end-tidal CO2, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and urinary KIM-1 were recorded.
Results
The low pressure group showed lower intra- and postoperative heart rate, intraoperative plasma IL-6, sVEGFR-2 levels and plasma syndecan-1 than standard pressure group. Proximal tubule syndecan-1 expression was higher in the low pressure group. Proximal-distal tubules and peritubular capillary endothelium VEGFR-2 expression were lower in low pressure group. The low pressure group showed renal tubule and peritubular capillary ultrastructure with intact cell membranes, clear cell boundaries, and intact brush borders, while standard pressure group showed swollen nuclei, tenuous cell membrane, distant boundaries, vacuolizations, and detached brush borders.
Conclusion
The low pressure pneumoperitoneum attenuated the inflammatory response and resulted in reduction of syndecan-1 shedding and VEGFR-2 expression as the renal tubular and vascular endothelial proinflammatory markers to injury due to a systemic inflammation in laparoscopic nephrectomy.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrial.gov NCT:03219398, July 17th 2017.
Keywords: pneumoperitoneum, renal resistive index, interleukin-6, syndecan-1, sVEGFR-2, laparoscopic nephrectomy
Epidemiology of acute rubella infection in Zambia during the pre-vaccination period (2005 – 2016) as a baseline for monitoring rubella epidemiology in the post-rubella vaccine introduction era
Authors: Mazaba Mazyanga Lucy , Siziya Seter , Monze Mwaka , Cohen Daniel
Published: November 2019

Background: Rubella is highly under reported in Zambia as in most sub-Saharan countries despite being a disease of major public health concern especially among women of childbearing age. In September 2016, Zambia introduced a combined measles-rubella vaccine in children 0-14 years. In this study, we estimated the proportion positive for acute rubella among suspected but negative measles cases between 2005 and 2016 and determined its correlates for monitoring rubella epidemiology post-rubella vaccine introduction.
Methods: In a retrospective study, 4497 measles IgM negative serum samples from 5686 clinically suspected measles cases were examined for rubella IgM antibodies using the Siemens, Enzygnost® ELISA kit at the national measles laboratory. Data on demographics, year and month of onset were extracted from the surveillance data. Multivariate logistic regression analysis using backward variable selection was conducted to determine independent predictors for acute rubella. The magnitude of association was estimated using adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval.
Results: Overall, a proportion of 29.2% (1313/4497) affecting mostly those between 5 and 24 years was determined. Only age, province, month and year were independently associated with acute rubella. The regional proportions varied from 21.8 – 37.3% peaking in the month of October. Persons in the age group 10-14 years (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]=2.43; 95% CI [2.01 - 2.95]) were more likely while those aged <1 year less likely (AOR=0.31; 95% CI [021 - 0.48]) to have acute rubella compared to those aged 25 years or older. Persons in 2010 were less likely (AOR=0.12; CI [0.05, 0.28]) to have acute rubella compared to those in 2016. While acute rubella was more likely to occur between July and November compared to December, it was less likely to occur between February and May.
Conclusions: Rubella virus was circulating in Zambia between 2005 and 2016 affecting mostly persons in the age group 5-24 years peaking in the hot dry season month of October. Although vaccination against rubella has been launched, these baseline data are important to provide a reference point when determining the impact of the vaccination program implemented.
Keywords: Rubella, Acute, Proportion, Correlates, Zambia, Pre vaccination era, Immunisation
The role of dental education of 7–8 year’s children in the complex of preventive measures
Authors: Lekomtseva O. V. , Kosyuga S. Y. , Lecheb Y.
Published: November 2019

The article is devoted to the study of the intensity, prevalence of dental caries and oral hygiene indices among younger schoolchildren, against the background of a complex of preventive measures and dental education, which was carried out on an individual and group level in the conditions of a school dental office, and health lessons in classes. The dental study involved 106 primary schoolchildren, including 54 boys (51%) and 52 girls (49%) aged 7–8 years, who were examined on the basis of the dental office of the school №176 of Nizhny Novgorod. The children were divided into 2 groups: 1 – prevention group and 2 – control group. In 1 group of children every three months during the year we carried out professional oral hygiene, then treatment of all teeth with a deep fluoridation and training in the standard method of brushing teeth on models in a dental office. In addition, for children of group 1, we organized health lessons with training in the standard method of brushing teeth in the classroom, the use of additional hygiene products for the oral cavity in children of this age and the demonstration of a cartoon about dental caries. In the control group a set of preventive measures was also carried out in the form of professional oral hygiene and application of all teeth with the drug Gluftored, training in the standard method of brushing teeth on models every three months during the year, but dental education in the form of health lessons in the classroom was not. According to the clinical examination of 7–8 year’s children, it was revealed that during regular preventive measures and dental education among younger schoolchildren, the development of caries for permanent teeth is not observed, oral hygiene is improved, and dental health is rising.
Persistent and prolonged cough in children: differential diagnosis and treatment algorithms
Authors: Mizernitskiy Yu. L. , Melnikova I. M.
Published: November 2019

The article presents data on the etiology, modern methods for diagnosis and treatment of respiratory system diseases and examines in detail cough as the main symptom. Particular attention is paid to hypertussivity, which is defined as a cough that occurs in the absence of obvious reasons. In addition, the emphasize was put on the role of anatomical and physiological features in the development and characteristics of cough, especially in young children. The authors draw attention to the complex mechanism of the cough, which development involves many body systems such as nervous, immune, endocrine and respiratory. The article describes the main treatment methods, drugs prescribed to the patients with cough, which are divided into «antitussive» drugs used as cough suppressants and «protussive» drugs used in situations, in which mobilization of secretions is desired, combined drugs. The role of new combined drugs, in particular, Rengalin, which affects the central and peripheral links of the cough reflex, was noted.
Clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of respiratory M. pneumoniae infection in children
Authors: Zaplatnikov A. L. , Girina A. A. , Maykova I. D. , Karoid N. V. , Lepiseva I. V. , Svintsitskaya V. I. , Logacheva T. S.
Published: November 2019

The article describes state-of-the-art knowledge regarding etiology, epidemiology, clinical features and diagnostic criteria for respiratory infections caused byMycoplasma pneumoniae(M. pneumoniae). It presents the characteristics of the main forms of lesions in mycoplasma infections of the respiratory tract – pharyngitis, bronchitis and pneumonia. Particular attention is paid to the differential diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia of pneumococcal and mycoplasma etiology. The issues of rational choice of initial etiotropic therapy for the treatment of respiratory mycoplasmosis in children are discussed.