bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of using non-rebreathing mask in patients with respiratory failure
Authors: Li Chao-Jui , Lin Yan-Ren , Chen Chien-Chih , Lin Xin-Hong , Chuang Po-Chun
Published: May 2020

Background
Liberal oxygen therapy might increase the mortality rate of patients. Non-rebreathing mask (NRM) is a high-flow, non-invasive oxygen device that can provide oxygen concentration up to 95%. This study aimed to determine the impact of using NRM in patients with respiratory failure.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study was conducted in four medical institutions in Taiwan. Data were extracted from the Chang Gung Research Database between January 2010 and December 2016. The association between mortality and NRM use in patients with respiratory failure in the emergency department was analysed. Before receiving ventilator support, patients were divided into the NRM treatment and no NRM treatment groups. A 1:4 propensity score matching was conducted. Regarding the duration of NRM use, treatments were grouped as 0 hour, 0–1 hour, 1–2 hours, and > 2 hours.
Results
A total of 18749 patients were included, with 1074 using NRM. After the 1:4 propensity score matching, 1028 patients using NRM and 4112 patients not using NRM were analysed. The 72-hour and 30-day mortality rates were 14.8%, 14.1%, 10.4%, and 11.3% and 29.1%, 28.5%, 27.5%, and 35.5% in the 0 hour, 0–1 hour, 1–2 hour, and > 2 hour treatment groups, respectively. Patients with respiratory failure due to pulmonary disease using NRM (> 2 hours) for a prolonged period had a higher mortality rate than patients not using NRM (OR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.06–1.74).
Conclusions
Prolonged use of NRM (> 2 hours) in patients with respiratory failure due to pulmonary disease possibly results in an increased mortality rate.
Antimicrobial effects of Black Soldier Fly and Yellow Mealworm fats and their impact on gut microbiota of growing rabbits
Authors: Dabbou Sihem , Ferrocino Ilario , Gasco Laura , Schiavone Achille , Trocino Angela , Xiccato Gerolamo , Lajusticia Ana Cristina Barroeta , Maione Sandra , Soglia Dominga , Biasato Ilaria , Cocolin Luca , Gai Francesco , Nucera Michele Daniele
Published: May 2020

Background
The study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activities of two types of insect fats extracted from black soldier fly larvae (HI, Hermetia illucens L.) and yellow mealworm larvae (TM, Tenebrio molitor L.) and their effects as dietary replacement of soybean oil (S) on caecal fermentation pattern, and faecal and caecal microbiota in rabbits.
Results
A total of 120 weaned rabbits were randomly allotted to 3 dietary treatments (40 rabbits/group): a control diet (C diet) containing 1.5% of S and two experimental diets (HID and TMD) where S was totally substituted by HI or TM fats. Regarding the in vitro antimicrobial activities, HI and TM fats did not show any effects on Salmonella growth. Yersinia enterocolitica showed lower growth when challenged with insect fats than the controls. The insect fat supplementation in rabbit diets increased the contents of the caecal volatile fatty acids when compared to the control group. A metataxonomic approach was adopted to investigate the shift in the microbial composition as a function of the dietary insect fat supplementation. The microbiota did not show a clear separation as a function of the inclusion, even if a specific microbial signature was observed. Indeed, HI and TM fat supplementation enriched the presence of Akkermansia that was found to be correlated with NH3-N concentration. An increase in Ruminococcus, which can improve the immune response of the host, was also observed.
Conclusions
This study confirms the potential of HI and TM fats as antibacterial feed ingredients with a positive influence on the rabbit caecal microbiota, thus supporting the possibility of including HI and TM fats in rabbit diets.
Innovation and inheritance: A novel strategy for the development of anti-yellowing cosmetic material from TCM formula
Authors: WANG Shiyi , MENG Hong , DONG Yinmao , LI Li , BAO Tuya , YI Fan
Published: May 2020

Background Yellow complexion is a major skin issue that bothers Chinese women. The major factor leading to sallow complexion is the accumulation of advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs). Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treats dull, yellow complexion as being associated with liver-, spleen- or stomach-related functional disorders. Through analysis of prescription data, we explored combinations of new prescriptions with yellow-dispelling effects.Methods We extracted the most commonly used drug pairs and core medicine in anti-yellowing formulas, then carry out hierarchical clustering analysis and extract new formula combinations. The combination effect was determined by falvnoe, DPPH radical scavenging activity and Non-enzymatic glycosylation inhibiting activity. Toxicological analysis included HET-CAM, 3T3 phototoxicity, multiple irritation and patch test.Result Three empirical formulas were identified according to drug frequency analysis, and a new formula was identified according to the results of hierarchical clustering analysis. A series of biochemical experiments proved that the best anti-yellow-complexion formula combination was the new one. The results of the safety investigation showed that the new formula at a concentration of 5% had no eye irritation effects, no irritant or corrosive effects on mammalian skin, and no adverse reactions with human skin.Conclusion This study explored and analysed the internal laws of TCM for treatment of yellow complexion and, on this basis, developed a plant combination extract material with an anti-yellowing effect on skin.
Nociceptin is Present in Synovial Fluid of Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Verbeek Thomas , Jarbadan Nancy Ruth , Davis Charles , Caldwell Julia
Published: May 2020

BackgroundNociceptin, an endogenous neuropeptide with similar structure to classical opioids, is involved in a variety of systemic modulatory responses. Osteoarthritis, a chronic neuroinflammatory condition, appears to have both pro- and anti-inflammatory processes that are possibly linked to nociceptin. The presence of nociceptin in human synovial fluid has been documented in some studies; however, in others it was not detected. The goal of this pilot study was to determine whether nociceptin was present in the synovial fluid of osteoarthritic knees. MethodsPatients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty were enrolled after Institutional Review Board approval was obtained. Synovial fluid was aspirated from patients’ operative knee joints and blood samples were obtained. A commercially available enzyme Immunoassay kit was used to test for nociceptin. A linear mixed-effects model was developed to account for the repeated measurements and baseline covariates. Least squares (adjusted) means were derived from the model to compare the sample types and to compare subgroups.ResultsTwenty patients were included in this study. Nociceptin was detected in the synovial fluid and plasma of all patients. The mean concentration (± standard deviation) of nociceptin in synovial fluid was 28.7 ± 18.2 pg/ml. The mean concentration of nociceptin in plasma were 45.2 ± 24.3 pg/ml pre-procedure, and 40.1 ± 20.6 pg/ml post-tourniquet deflation. The nociceptin concentration in synovial fluid was significantly lower than the nociceptin concentration in plasma, both pre-procedure and post-tourniquet deflation (p=0.002 and p=0.016 respectively). The nociceptin concentration in both plasma and synovial fluid was significantly lower in females versus males (p=0.012).ConclusionWe demonstrated that nociceptin is present in synovial fluid and plasma of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. This implies a potential role for nociceptin in modulating inflammation in osteoarthritis.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02528916. Retrospectively registered on 19 August 2015, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02528916
Which growth standards should be used to identify large- and small-for-gestational age infants of mothers with type 1 diabetes? A pre-specified analysis of the CONCEPTT trial
Authors: Meek Claire L , Corcoy Rosa , Asztalos Elizabeth , Kusinski Laura Caroline , Lopez Esther , Feig Denice S , Murphy Helen R
Published: May 2020

BackgroundOffspring of women with type 1 diabetes are at increased risk of accelerated fetal growth which is associated with perinatal morbidity. Growth standards are used to identify large- or small- for gestational age (LGA, SGA) infants. Our aim was to examine which growth standards identify infants at risk of perinatal complications during the Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Type 1 Diabetes Pregnancy Trial (CONCEPTT).MethodsThis was a pre-specified analysis of CONCEPTT involving 225 pregnant women from 31 international centres. Infants were weighed immediately at birth and GROW, INTERGROWTH and WHO centiles calculated. Unadjusted logistic regression identified the associations between different growth standards and perinatal outcomes including preterm delivery, Caesarean delivery, neonatal hypoglycaemia, hyperbilirubinaemia, respiratory distress, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and a composite neonatal outcome. ResultsAccelerated fetal growth was common, with mean birthweight percentiles of 82.1, 85.7 and 63.9 and LGA rates of 62%, 67% and 30% using GROW, INTERGROWTH and WHO standards respectively. Corresponding rates of SGA were 2.2%, 1.3% and 8.9% respectively. All standards were associated with some but not all perinatal outcomes studied. Infants born >97.7th centile using GROW or INTERGROWTH standards were at highest risk of complications. Conclusions WHO standards underestimated birthweight centile. GROW and INTERGROWTH standards identified similar numbers of infants as LGA and SGA with GROW showing stronger associations with neonatal hypoglycaemia, hyperbilirubinaemia and NICU admission. Infants with suspected birthweight >97.7th centile using GROW or INTERGROWTH standards may require extra surveillance. Definitions of LGA and SGA should be re-evaluated in diabetic pregnancy. Trial registration: This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov. number NCT01788527.
Evolving geographic diversity in SARS-CoV2 and in silico analysis of replicating enzyme 3CLPro targeting repurposed drug candidates
Authors: Chitranshi Nitin , Gupta Vivek Kumar , Rajput Rashi , Godinez Angela , Pushpitha Kanishka , Sheng Ting , Mirzaei Mehdi , You Yuyi , Basavarajappa Devaraj , Gupta Veer , Graham Stuart
Published: May 2020

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) has been initiating pandemics since the beginning of this century. In December 2019, the world was hit again by a devastating SARS episode that has so far infected almost four million individuals worldwide with over 200,000 fatalities having already occurred by mid-April 2020, and the infection rate continues to grow exponentially. SARS coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a single stranded RNA pathogen which is characterised by a high mutation rate. It is vital to explore mutagenic capability of the viral genome that enables SARS-CoV-2 to rapidly jump from one host immunity to another and adapt to genetic pool of the local populations.Methods: For this study, we have analysed 1,921 complete viral sequences reported from SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. SARS-CoV-2 host genomes were collected from The Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) database containing 9 genomes from pangolin-CoV origin and 3 genomes from bat-CoV origin, Wuhan SARS-CoV2 reference genome was collected from GeneBank database. The Multiple sequence alignment tool, Clustal Omega was used for genomic sequence alignment. The viral replicating enzyme, 3-chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease (3CL pro ) that plays a key role in its pathogenicity was used to assess its affinity with pharmacological inhibitors and repurposed drugs such as anti-viral flavones, biflavanoids, anti-malarial drugs and vitamin supplements.Results: Our results demonstrate that bat-CoV shares >96% similar identity, while pangolin-CoV shares 85.98% identity with Wuhan SARS-CoV-2 genome. This in-depth analysis has identified 12 novel recurrent mutations in South American and African viral genomes out of which 3 were unique in South America, 4 unique in Africa and 5 were present in-patient isolates from both populations. The study further investigated the interaction of repurposed drugs with SARS-CoV-2 3CL pro enzyme which regulates viral replication machinery, using state of the art in silico approaches.Conclusions: Overall, this study provides insights into the evolving mutations with implications to understand viral pathogenicity and possible new strategies for repurposing compounds to combat Covid-19 pandemic.
Effect of pH Value on Synthesis and Properties of Zinc Cobalt Ferrite Nano Powders Prepared via Co-Precipitation Method
Authors: Shahbahrami Behrooz , Rabiee Sayed Mahmood , Shidpoor Reza
Published: May 2020

The effect of pH value on the synthesis of zinc cobalt ferrite nano powder via co-precipitation method was investigated. Zinc cobalt ferrite (Co0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4) precipitated using a solution of nitrate raw materials under different pHs (pH=8, 10, 11, 12 and 14) and calcined at 750 °C for 2 hours. The obtained nano-powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Williamson-Hall relations and Extrapolate functions, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) measurements.
The amount of pH had a significant effect on the structural and magnetic properties of the synthesized powders. At pHs 8 and 10, a tensile strain and above that a compressive strain was created in the system. By changing the tensile strain to compression the crystallite diameter increased, so that the crystallite diameter increased from 19.3 nm at pH 8 to 47.8 nm for pH =11. The HC of the all samples was in the range of 140-150 Oe. The saturation magnetization, anisotropy and Bohr magneton constants were 100.38 emu/gr, 15357.70 erg/Oe and 4.27, respectively for the synthesized sample at pH=11, which were higher than the other samples. These changes are due to the effect that pH has on the parameters of the crystallite diameter, particle size and also on the cation distribution of the ions in tetrahedral/octahedral spaces.
Comparison of the quantitative measurement of 18F-FDG PET/CT and histopathological findings in IgG4-related disease
Authors: Tsuji Sosuke , Iwamoto Naoki , Yoshiro Horai , Keita Fujikawa , Fujita Yuya , Fukui Shoichi , Ideguchi Reiko , Michitsuji Toru , Nishihata Shinya , Okamoto Momoko , Tsuji Yoshika , Endo Yushiro , Shimizu Toshimasa , Koga Tomohiro , kawashiri Shin-ya , Igawa Takashi , Ichinose Kunihiro , Tamai Mami , Nakamura Hideki , Origuchi Tomoki , Kudo Takashi , Kawakami Atsushi
Published: May 2020

Background

Although there is increasing use of 18F-FDG PET/CT in the diagnostic procedure for IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD), little is known about the quantification of 18F-FDG PET/CT. We aimed to evaluate the utility of the quantification of 18F-FDG PET/CT in the diagnosis of IgG4-RD by analyzing the relation between 18F-FDG PET/CT findings and histopathologic findings.
Methods

Twenty-one patients with IgG4-RD, in whom 18F-FDG PET/CT was performed at the time of diagnosis between November 2011 and July 2018, were enrolled. Tissue biopsy was performed at 24 sites in 21 patients. To perform quantitative analysis of 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging, the highest standardized uptake value (SUV) of the pixels (SUVmax) and the average SUV (SUVmean) within the biopsied lesion were measured. The SUVmean of the liver was also measured as a reference.
Results

The mean age at diagnosis was 64.6 ± 11.9 years, and the median serum IgG4 level was 650 mg/dl. Histological findings were consistent with IgG4-RD (histopathology-positive) at 19 out of 24 sites. Although there was no significant difference in the values of SUVmax between histopathology-positive and histopathology-negative tissues, the values of SUVmean were significantly higher in the histopathology-positive tissue than those in the histopathology-negative tissue (4.98 and 3.54, respectively P < 0.05). The value of SUVmean/liver were also higher in the histopathology-positive tissue (2.17 and 1.52, respectively P < 0.05). To establish a cut-off value of SUVmean to determine which of multiple lesions should be biopsied, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed. ROC curve analysis indicated SUVmean=4.07 or SUVmean/liver = 1.66 as a cut-off value that could discriminate IgG4-RD-related lesions.
Conclusions

Our present study suggested that quantitative analysis of 18FDG-PET/CT imaging might be useful for selecting the biopsy site in IgG4-RD. The calculation of SUVmean, not of SUVmax, is important for evaluating IgG4-RD-related lesions in 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging.
The Effects of Onlay Titanium-coated Mesh on Recurrence, Foreign Body Feeling and Chronic Pain in Ventral Hernia
Authors: Akalın Çağrı
Published: May 2020

Background There are many complications of meshes in hernia repair. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of onlay titanium-coated meshes (TCM) on recurrence, foreign body feeling and chronic pain in ventral hernia repair.Methods In this retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent TCM and polypropylene mesh (PM) for onlay repair of ventral hernia were examined between May 2014 and January 2018 at our centre. Patient characteristics, type of hernia, defect size, operative time, follow-up time, surgical site occurrence (infection, seroma and hematoma), recurrence, foreign body feeling and chronic pain were analysed. Patients were divided into two groups according to the mesh elected; TCM (titanium group) or PM (polypropylene group).Results Out of 160 patients, 63 (32.6%) had TCM and 97 (67.4%) had PM. There was no significant difference between groups in terms of recurrence (p = 0.757). Chronic pain and foreign body feeling were low in the titanium group (p = 0.047 and p = 0.029, respectively), a positive correlation was found between surgical site infection and recurrence (p = 0.020). In the polypropylene group, an increase in defect size was significantly associated with foreign body feeling and chronic pain (p < 0.001 for both comparisons).Conclusion In onlay repair of ventral hernia, TCM led to less foreign body feeling and chronic pain then PM. The surgical site infection was associated with recurrence for these meshes. Additionally, the increase in defect size causes a risk for foreign body feeling and chronic pain in repair using PM.
Conservative Management of CIN2p16 Positive Lesions in Women with Multiple HPV Infection
Authors: Bruno Maria Teresa , Scalia Guido , Cassaro Nazario , Costanzo Maria , Boemi Sara
Published: May 2020

The literature indicates a better agreement between pathologists of diagnosis of CIN2 when the H&E morphology is used together with p16 compared to the H&E morphology alone. The p16 protein when positive in a CIN2 suspect gives us the confidence of having selected true CIN2 cases. According to the 2006 American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology guidelines, positive CIN2 p16 in women over the age of 25 should be managed with excisional treatments. However, excisional treatments are associated with physical, psychological and obstetric morbidity and can have a negative impact on sexual function. In our study we sought to identify a clear management strategy, address the impact of routine use of p16 immunohistochemistry in this population and identify appropriate criteria for patient selection with the aim of reducing over-treatment.Method We studied the medical records of 130 patients who had undergone laser therapy for CIN2. Each patient underwent colposcopy, specific biopsy and HPV test. Patients were divided based on HPV infection into: single infections, multiple infections. All patients were tested for p16 protein, and then underwent ZTA laser therapy with follow-up.Statistical analysis Contingency tables were created to evaluate the correlation between single, multiple and CIN2+ infections. Values with p <0.05 were considered statistically significant.Results Progression, regression and persistence rates of CIN2 are shown in Table 1. Single infections had a histological regression of 61,8% (21/34), the histological persistence rate, 35,3% (12/34), was greater than the multiple infection rate. The common characteristic that the women with persistence and progression had was the dimension of the lesion visible to the colposcopic exam and the genotype 16. Ten cases of histological persistence and the only case of progression had one lesion greater than three quarters of the cervix.Conclusions With the progress of our understanding of the natural history of infection from human papillomavirus and the increasing use of colposcopy, thanks to the addition of HPV genotyping and the technique of immunohistochemistry, conservative management of these lesions is now possible
Vincosamide inhibits malignant behaviors of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by activating caspase-3 activity and blocking the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Zhu Mingyue , Feng Haipeng , Lin Bo , Zhou Ying , Zheng Yifeng , Liu Kun , Li Mengsen
Published: May 2020

Background

Vincosamide(Vinco) was first identified in the methanolic extract of the leaves of Psychotria leiocarpa, and Vinco has important anti-inflammatory effects and activity against cholinesterase. However, whether Vinco inhibits the malignant behaviors of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) cells is still unclear. In the present study, we explored the role of Vinco in suppressing the malignant behaviors of HCC cells.
Methods

MTT and trypan blue exclusion assays were applied to detect the proliferation and death of HCC cells; electron microscopy was performed to observe change in cellular mitochondrial morphology; scratch repair and Transwell assays were used to analyze the migration and invasion of HCC cells; the expression and localization of proteins were detected by laser confocal microscopy and Western blotting; and the growth of the cancer cells in vivo was assessed in a mouse tumor model.
Results

At a dose of 10–80 µg/ml, Vinco inhibited the proliferation of HCC cells and promoted their apoptosis in a time- and dose-independent manner but had little effect on normal liver cells. Additionally, 80 µg/ml Vinco significantly disrupted the morphology of mitochondria and suppressed the migration and invasion of HCC cells. The growth of HCC cells in the animal tumor model was significantly inhibited after treatment with Vinco (10 mg/kg/day) for 3 days. The results of the present study indicate that Vinco (10–80 µg/ml) plays novel roles in activating caspase-3, promoting the expression of PTEN, and inhibiting the phosphorylation of AKT(Ser 473) and mTOR (Thr2448) and that Vinco was able to also suppress the expression of CXCR4, Src, MMP9, EpCAM, Ras and Oct4 in HCC cells.
Conclusions

Vinco plays a role in inhibiting the malignant behaviors of HCC cells, and the molecular mechanism may involve in suppressing the expression of the growth-, metastasis-related factors Src, Ras, MMP9, EpCAM and CXCR4 and activating the activity of caspase-3. Vinco also blocks the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Thus, Vinco is an available chemotherapy for HCC patients.
The adverse alterations of HDL in quality promote septic ARDS via exacerbated pulmonary endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Yang Liu , Liu Sijie , Han Silu , Hu Yuhan , Wu Zhipeng , Shi Xiaoqian , Pang Baosen , Ma Yingmin , Jin Jiawei
Published: May 2020

Background

Septic acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), characterized by the acute lung injury (ALI) secondary to aberrant systemic inflammatory response, has high morbidity and mortality. Despite increased understanding of ALI pathogenesis, the therapies to prevent lung dysfunction underlying systemic inflammatory disorder remain elusive. The high density lipoprotein (HDL) has critical protective effects in sepsis and its dysfunction has a manifested contribution to septic organ failure. However, the adverse changes in HDL composition and function in septic ARDS patients are large unknown.

Method

To investigate HDL remodeling in septic ARDS, we analyzed composition changes of plasma HDL from 40 patients with septic ARDS (A-HDL) and 40 matched normal controls (N-HDL). To determine the deleterious functional remodeling of HDL, A-HDL or N-HDL was administrated to C57BL/6 and apoA-I knock-out (KO) mice after cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) procedure. Mouse lung microvascular endothelial cells (MLECs) were further treated by these HDLs to investigate whether the adverse effects of A-HDL were associated with endothelial dysfunction.

Results

ARDS patients showed significant changes of HDL composition, accompanied with the dramatic decrease in plasma HDL-C. We further indicated that A-HDL treatment aggravated CLP induced ALI. Intriguingly, this deleterious effects of A-HDL were associated with pulmonary endothelial dysfunction, rather than the deregulation of plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Further in vitro results demonstrated the direct effects of A-HDL on MLECs, including increased expressions of adhesion proteins and pro-inflammatory cytokines via activating NF-κB signaling and decreased junction protein expression.

Conclusions

Our results depicted a sepsis induced remodeling in HDL quality, which predisposes lung to ARDS via inducing ECs dysfunction. These results also demonstrated the importance of circulating HDL in regulating alveolar homeostasis.
The effect of total flavonoids from Saussurea involucrata on the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages
Authors: Yan Li-Shan , Wang Li , Cheng Brian Chi-Yan , Ding Yu , Kong Jing , Wang Qing Gao , Fu Xiu-Qiong , Zhang Shuo-Feng , Luo Gan , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2020

Background Saussurea involucrate (SI) has long been used to treat inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. The main active constituents of SI are flavonoids, which are a class of polyphenolic compounds. However, few studies have investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of the total flavonoids of SI (FSI). The mechanism underlying this action is still not fully understood. In the present study, we employed RAW264.7 cell line as an inflammatory cell model to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of FSI and explore the corresponding molecular mechanisms.Methods We extracted FSI using chromatographic column method. The cell viability was determined by MTT assay. The production of nitric oxide (NO) was detected by Griess assay. The release of cytokines and chemokines were determined by ELISA assays. The nuclear translocation of p65, c-Jun, and IRF3 was detected by immunofluorescence microscopy. Western blotting analysis was performed to determine the related protein expression.Results The results showed that the amount of FSI extracted from SI was 751.5 mg/g. The production of inflammatory mediators was effectively inhibited by FSI. Meanwhile, FSI also suppressed the nuclear translocation of p65, c-Jun, and IRF3. The elevated expression of iNOS, COX-2, p-IKKα/β, p-TBK1, p-IκBα, p-ERK, p-p38, p-JNK, p-p65, p-c-Jun, p-IRF3 induced by LPS was remarkably reduced by FSI treatment.Conclusion These findings indicated that FSI has a potential ability to inhibit the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators and the underlying mechanism may be related to block the p65, c-Jun, and IRF3 signaling pathways. This study provided evidence for the anti-inflammatory mode and the underlying mechanism of FSI.
Relationship between radiologic gravity and predicting instruments of physical and mental health in elderly with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Ribeiro Isadora , Coimbra Arlete Maria Valente , Costallat Beatriz Lavras , Coimbra Ibsen Bellini
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between radiologic severity by the grades of the Kellgren-Lawrence scale (K&Ls) independently and in two groups (grades "0 and 1" and "2 to 4") and instruments that assess depression symptoms, cognitive loss, risk of fall and quality of life related to knee osteoarthritis. METHODS: The analyzed materials were derived from a database and collected between 2013-2014 in Amparo (São Paulo, Brazil). 181 elderly with knee osteoarthritis who had a radiologic exam were evaluated for depressive symptoms, cognitive loss, quality of life and risk of fall by: Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index), Timed Up and Go test (TUG) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). To statistical analyses was used Fisher's exact test, Mann-Whitney test, Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman's coefficient. RESULTS: There was no significant relationship between the instruments investigated and the grades assessed individually. However, when assessed by groups, grades “2 to 4” had the worst WOMAC score, the highest frequency and the worst risk of fall in the BBS, but not in the TUG. For GDS and MMSE, no significant relationships were found. In addition, K&Ls was correlated with the WOMAC socre, with no differences between their domains. CONCLUSION: Only when evaluated in groups, the radiological scores of the Kellgren-Lawrence scale pointed to a worse status in the WOMAC and BBS and the WOMAC score accompanies the increase in the radiological grade.
Identifying and quantifying robust risk factors for mortality in critically ill patients with COVID-19 using quantile regression
Authors: Linli Zeqiang , Chen Yinyin , Guo Shuixia
Published: May 2020

Objective: Many laboratory indicators form a skewed distribution with outliers, for which robust methods are needed to precisely determine and quantify fatality risk factors.Method: A total of 192 critically ill patients (142 were discharged and 50 died in the hospital) with COVID-19 were included in the sample. Quantile regression was used to determine discrepant laboratory indexes between survivors and non-survivors and quantile shift (QS) was used to quantify the difference. Logistic regression was then used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and the predictive power of death for each risk indicator. Results: After adjusting for multiple comparisons and controlling numerous confounders, quantile regression revealed that the laboratory indexes of non-survivors were significantly higher in C-reactive protein (CRP; QS = 0.835, p <0.001), white blood cell counts (WBC; QS = 0.743, p <0.001), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (AST; QS = 0.735, p <0.001), blood glucose (BG; QS = 0.608, p = 0.059), fibrin degradation product (FDP; QS = 0.730, p = 0.080), and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2), and lower in oxygen saturation (SO2; QS = 0.312, p <0.001), calcium (Ca2+; QS = 0.306, p = 0.073), and PH. Most of these abnormalities were associated with increased fatality risk and can predict the probability of death, especially, CRP which is the most prominent index with an odds ratio of 205.97 and predictive accuracy of 93.2%.Conclusion: Laboratory indexes provided reliable information on mortality in critically ill patients, which might help improve clinical prediction and treatment at an early stage.
The Validity of the Smart Management Strategy for Health Assessment Tool-Life (SAT-Life) in General Population
Authors: Yun Young Ho , Sim Jin-ah
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to determine the reliability and validity of the life version of the Smart Management Strategy for Health Assessment Tool (SAT-Life) for the general South Korean population. We recruited 1,200 respondents using an equal-probability sampling method from March to May 2018. A life version of the Smart Management Strategy for Health Assessment Tool (SAT-Life) Cronbach’ α was used to determine the reliability of the 30-item SAT-Life. Comparisons with the Self-Reported Health Status (SRHS), Short Form-12 (SF-12), McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire (MQOL), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were conducted for establishing the discriminant and concurrent validity. Three sets of SAT-Life demonstrated a high reliability with good internal consistency (Cronbach’ α 0.86 for SAT-Core, 0.88 for SAT-Preparation, and 0.86 for SAT-Implementation). The total scores of the three SAT differentiated well between the before-maintenance group versus the maintenance group for achieving goals in the participants, and between the group with high depression score versus that with lower depression score in the general population. These SAT-Life scores were positively associated with health status and physical and mental quality of life (QOL). The scores of the SAT-Life were correlated with social support and spiritual well-being measured using the MQOL, and life satisfaction measured using SWLS. The 30-item SAT-Life had a satisfactory internal consistency and validity for the general South Korean population. Further validation should be carried out in a cohort study across different cultures, including an assessment of sensitivity.
Evaluation of Impact of Daily Laurus Nobilis Tea Consumption on the Lipid Profile and on the Increased Anti-Oxidant Activity In Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Chbili Chahra , Maher Maoua , Sawssen Mrad , Mejda Selmi , Hajer Boudriga , Hedi Khairi , Khalifa Limem , Nejib Mrizek , Saad Saguem , Maha Ben Fredj
Published: May 2020

Background We investigated whether Laurus nobilis tea consumption affects lipid profile and oxidative stress in healthy volunteers.Methods Plasma concentrations of serum lipid profile parameters and Catalase, Uric acid, carbonylated proteins and superoxide dismutase levels were measured.Results We found a significant positive correlation between Delta- high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and Delta-Uric Acid (R = 0.396, p = 0.036) as well as Delta-Triglyceride and Delta- carbonylated proteins (R = 0.438, p = 0.020). Also, there was a negative correlation between Delta- Low-density Lipoprotein cholesterol and Delta- superoxide dismutase (R= -0.479, p = 0.009).A significant positive correlation between Delta- Low-density Lipoprotein cholesterol, Delta- triglyceride down and Delta- Low-density Lipoprotein Receptor up (p = 0.017, p = 0.038 respectively).In addition, a statistically significant negative correlation between the mean levels of Delta-Low-density Lipoprotein cholesterol down and of Delta-Low-density Lipoprotein receptor (p = 0.013). A statistically significant negative correlation between the mean concentrations of Delta-Low-density Lipoprotein cholesterol down and of Delta-Low-density Lipoprotein receptor up was observed (p = 0.010). The mean levels of Delta-triglyceride down and Delta-Low-density Lipoprotein receptor showed a significantly negative correlation (p = 0.005). There has been a significant increase in Low-density Lipoprotein Receptor levels over the period of study as it went from 444.54 (±241.03 pg/mL)day 0 to 634.00 (± 290.19 pg/mL)day 11 (p=0.000). Our study showed a significantly negative correlation only between Delta- superoxide dismutase up (superoxide dismutase Day11 - superoxide dismutase Day0) and age (p = 0.03), where Delta is the difference in the level of parameters between day 11 and day 0.Conclusion These findings highlight that the infusion of Laurus nobilis can be added to foods to enhance or regulate Low-density Lipoprotein Receptor activity levels with an elevation of HDL-cholesterol serum concentration concomitant to high antioxidant activity. Trial registration Not applicable
Comparison of clinical characteristics and risk factors in hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV infection
Authors: Li Zhengtu , Wang Xidong , Su Guansheng , Zheng Zeguang , Li Shaoqiang , Ye Yuwei , Deng Qiuxue , Li Jinchuang , Xiong Xiaoyu , Wei Xinguang , Lin Zeqiang , Jie Zichen , Ye Feng
Published: May 2020

Herein, we compared the risk factors, clinical presentation of patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, or MERS-CoV infection. Our data sources include PubMed, Embase, CNKI, and Ovid/Medline. The proportion of male patients with COVID-19 was higher than who with SARS but lower than who with MERS (p<0.001). More patients with COVID-19 had coexisting chronic medical conditions than those with SARS (p<0.001) but fewer than those with MERS (p<0.001), and the prevalence of hypertension (17%) and smoking history (14%) was higher than in patients with SARS (p<0.001). Furthermore, the symptom of fever (53%), hemoptysis (1%), diarrhea (4%) and vomiting (3%) of COVID-19 were significantly lower than that in patients with SARS or MERS. The level of ALT and AST in COVID-19 was significantly lower (p<0.001), however, thrombocytopenia, high LDH were common. Summary, male, smoking history and hypertension were the most common risk factors for hospitalization with COVID-19; and the clinical feature was less severe in COVID-19.
Physiochemical, Insecticidal and Antidiabetic activities of Senna occidentalis Linn Root
Authors: Issa Tahani Osman , Ahmed Ahmed Ibrahim Mohamed , Mohamed Yahya Sulieman , Yagi Sakina , Makhawi Abdelrafie Mohamed , Khider Tarig
Published: May 2020

The present study aimed to investigate the physiochemical activities of Senna occidentalis (Linn) roots, phytochemicals as insecticidal (ethyl acetate and methanol) and antidiabetic (ethanolic extract) activities. Physicochemical properties were carried out by using Association of Official Analytical Chemists methods, thin layer chromatography was carried out according to the Stahl method. Larvicidal activity and LD50 were studied against third instar of Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito larvae to detect, which extract is safe or toxic. The ethanolic extracts of the roots were orally tested at the dose 200 mg/kg for hypoglycemic effect on induced hyperglycemia in normal rats, assessed in the ethanol extract were compared with diabetic control and standards Glibenclamide 10mg/kg. Physiochemical parameters showed high parameters in nitrogen free extract (69.6%), curd fiber (14.5%), crude proteins (8.15%), ether extract (3.75%), and both Ash and moisture (2%), high concentrations values were found in potassium (43 mg/l) followed by phosphorous (28.5 mg/l), calcium (15 mg/l), sodium (3.65 mg/l) and magnesium. (0.145 mg/l) in this part beside phytochemical compounds showed high amount of alkaloids, triterpene, flavonoids, tannins, sugars, and few amount of Anthraquinone glycosides. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) studies different colored phytochemical constituted with different Rf values. All the spots are colored under UV light, but some are localized colorless after spaying. Ethyl acetate (EtAc) extract showed eight spots and methanol (MeOH) extract showed thirteen spots. The Larvicidal activity showed that ethyl acetate extract was safe against mosquito larvae with LD50 value 1412.54 (p<0.05) and methanol extract had moderate larvicidal activity against mosquito larvae with LD50 value 257.54 (p<0.05). While the ethanolic extract of Senna occidentalis (L.) cause a favorable hypoglycemic activity when compared to control significant reduction by [53.15%, 32.87% and 20.94%] respectively as while as standard Glibenclamide. Based on the various data of the physicochemical parameters, TLC spots and phytochemical compounds of Senna occidentalis root, they could be used as references standards for manufacturing units of Senna occidentalis root Larvicidal and antidiabetic drugs.
Analysis of ACE2 Genetic Variability Among Populations Highlights A Possible Link With COVID19-Related Neurological Complications
Authors: Strafella Claudia , Caputo Valerio , Termine Andrea , Barati Shila , Gambardella Stefano , Borgiani Paola , Caltagirone Carlo , Novelli Giuseppe , Giardina Emiliano , Cascella Raffaella
Published: May 2020

The Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been recently recognized as the entry receptor of the novel pathogenic Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2). The presence of structural and sequence variants in ACE2 gene may affect its expression in different tissues and determine a differential response to SARS-Cov-2 infection and COVID19-related phenotype. The present study investigated the genetic variability of ACE2 in terms of Single Nucleotide Variants (SNVs), Copy Number Variations (CNVs) and expression Quantitative Loci (eQTLs) in a cohort of 268 individuals representative of the Italian general population. The analysis identified 5 SNVs (rs35803318, rs41303171, rs774469453, rs773676270, rs2285666) which displayed a significantly different frequency distribution in the Italian cohort compared to the worldwide populations. The analysis of eQTLs located in and targeting ACE2, revealed a high distribution of eQTL variants in different brain tissues, suggesting a possible link between the genetic variability of ACE2 and the neurological complications in patients with COVID19. Further research is needed to clarify the possible relationship between ACE2 expression and the susceptibility to neurological complications in patients with COVID19. In fact, patients at higher risk of neurological involvement may need different monitoring and treatment strategies in order to prevent severe, permanent brain injury.
Standardized Echinacea purpurea extract primes an IFN specific innate immune monocyte response via JAK1-STAT1 dependent gene expression and epigenetic control of endogenous retroviral sequences
Authors: Declerck Ken , Novo Claudina Perez , Grielens Lisa , Camp Guy Van , Suter Andreas , Berghe Wim Vanden
Published: May 2020

Background: Herbal remedies of Echinacea purpurea tinctures are widely used today to reduce common cold respiratory tract infections.Methods: A system biology approach involving genomewide transcriptome, epigenome and kinome activity profiles was applied to characterize the immunomodulatory effects of a standardized Echinacea purpurea extract Echinaforce® in THP1 monocytes.Results: Gene expression and DNA methylation analysis revealed activation of innate immunity related antiviral signaling networks, involving IFN, chemotaxis and immunometabolic pathways. Furthermore, phosphopeptide based kinome activity profiling and pharmacological inhibitor experiments with filgotinib confirm a key role for Janus Kinase (JAK)-1 dependent gene expression changes in innate immune signaling. Finally, Echinaforce® treatment induces DNA hypermethylation at intergenic CpG, long/short interspersed nuclear DNA repeat elements (LINE, SINE) or long termininal DNA repeats (LTR). This changes transcription of flanking endogenous retroviral sequences (HERVs), involved in an evolutionary conserved (epi)genomic protective response against viral infections.Conclusions: Altogether, our results suggest that Echinaforce® phytochemicals strengthen antiviral innate immunity by JAK1 responsive gene expression and epigenetic regulation of HERVs in monocytes, which supports its prophylactic use against common cold corona viruses (CoV), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)-CoV, and new occurring strains such as SARS-CoV-2.
Is Pool Testing Method of COVID-19 Employed in Germany and India Effective?
Authors: Liu Jia , Chen Yi , Xie Kefan , Chen Xiaohong
Published: May 2020

At present, several countries, such as Germany and India, have employed a pool testing method on the nucleic acid testing of COVID-19 for the shortage of detection kits. In this method, the testing is performed on several samples of the cases together as a bunch. If the test result of the bunch is negative, then it is shown that none of the cases in the bunch has been infected with the novel coronavirus. On the contrary, if the test result of the bunch is positive, then the samples are tested one by one to confirm which cases are infected. We verified that the pool testing method of COVID-19 is effective in the situation of the shortage of nucleic acid detection kits based on probabilistic modeling. Moreover, the following interesting results are also obtained. (1) If the infection rate is extremely low, while the same number of detection kits are used, the expected number of cases that can be tested by the pool testing method is far more than that by the one-by-one testing method. (2) The pool testing method is effective only when the infection rate is less than 0.3078. While the infection rate decreases from 0.3078 to 0.0018, the optimal sample sizes in one bunch increases from 3 to 25. In general, the higher the infection rate, the smaller the optimal sample size in one bunch. (3) If N samples are tested by the pool testing method, while the sample size in one bunch is G, the number of detection kits required is in the interval (N/G, N). Additionally, the lower the infection rate, the fewer detection kits are needed. Therefore, the pool testing method is not only suitable for the situation of the shortage of detection kits, but also the situation of the overall or sampling detection for a large population.
The Impact of Eight Hybrid Tomato Rootstocks on ‘BHN 589’ Scion Yield, Fruit Quality, and Plant Growth Traits in a Midwest High Tunnel Production System
Authors: Lang Kristine M. , Nair Ajay , Moore Kenneth J.
Published: May 2020

Prior work in a Midwestern United States high tunnel indicated that hybrid and heirloom tomato scions grafted to hybrid rootstock ‘RST-04-106-T’ had a minimal yield increase in the absence of soilborne disease pressure, which underscored the need for continued regional trials of alternative, commercially available tomato rootstocks. Objectives of the present study were to assess yield, fruit quality [pH, soluble solids content (SSC), total titratable acids (TTA), and firmness], and plant growth traits (plant height, stem diameter, and biomass) of grafted tomato with eight different hybrid rootstocks. ‘BHN 589’, a determinate hybrid tomato, was grafted to ‘Arnold’, ‘Beaufort’, ‘DRO141TX’, ‘Estamino’, ‘Maxifort’, ‘RST-04-106-T’, and two trial rootstocks, ‘946 TRS’ and ‘980 TRS’. Research was conducted April to September in 2017 and 2018 in a 9.1-m wide × 29.2-m long × 3.7-m tall single-poly high tunnel located at the Iowa State University Horticulture Research Station, Ames, IA. There were five plants per treatment in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Weekly harvests took place 13 times each season. ‘BHN 589’ grafted to ‘Arnold’, ‘Beaufort’, ‘DRO141TX’, ‘Estamino’, or ‘Maxifort’ had 30% to 119% more marketable fruit and had a higher marketable fruit weight by 1.3 to 4.1 kg per plant compared with nongrafted plants. Fruit quality differences were minimal in 2017 and null in 2018, as indicated by fruit pH, SSC, TTA, and the SSC:TTA ratio. The same five high-yielding rootstock treatments were the tallest, ranging from 184 to 214 cm in height. In 2017, shoot biomass of ‘BHN 589’ grafted to ‘Arnold’, ‘Beaufort’, ‘DRO141TX’, ‘Estamino’, and ‘Maxifort’ was 59 to 100 g more than that of nongrafted plants; in 2018, ‘BHN 589’ grafted to ‘Maxifort’ and ‘DRO141TX’ had the largest shoot biomass at 386 and 315 g, respectively. Overall, the results of this study indicate that ‘Arnold’, ‘DRO141TX’, and ‘Estamino’ may be comparable in performance to the widely used rootstocks ‘Beaufort’ and ‘Maxifort’ when grown under conditions lacking biotic or abiotic stress. Our results provide promising new options for Midwestern U.S. growers of high tunnel tomato who are seeking high-performing rootstocks.