bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The potential anti- African Swine Fever Virus effects of medium chain fatty acids on in vitro pig feed and water models
Authors: Tran Ha Thi Thanh , Truong Anh Duc , Ly Duc Viet , Hoang Tuan Van , Nguyen Chinh Thi , Chu Nhu Thi , Nguyen Huyen Thi , Dang Anh Thi Kieu , Vos Maartje De , Lannoo Kobe , Bruggeman Geert , Dang Hoang Vu
Published: June 2020

Background

African swine fever (ASF) is an important disease affecting swine and has a significant economic loss on both the developed and developing world but due to the lack of vaccines, drug, and effective control measures, ASF virus remains a serious threat to global pork production. The activities of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) against viral pathogens have been reported previously. However, the effects of this family on ASFV have been not yet investigated. In this study, we evaluated the potential effects of MCFAs in individual and synergistic forms, to prevent and/or reduce ASFV infection using in vitro feed and water models.
Results

The potential effects of MCFAs, including C8, C6-C8-C10 (1:1:1 ratio) and C8-C10-C12 (1:1:1 ratio) against a field ASFV strain isolated in Red River Delta region of Vietnam were further examined by real-time PCR in in vitro feed and water models. All tested products have shown a strong antiviral effect against ASFV infectivity at doses of 0.375% and 0.5% in both feed and water assays. Interestingly, the synergistic MCFAs have shown clearly their potential activities against ASFV in which at lower dose of 0.25%, pre-treatment with product 2 and 3 induced significant increases at the level of Cq value when compared to positive control and/or product 1 (P < 0.05).
Conclusions

To our knowledge, it is the first report on in vitro examination of the anti-ASFV activities of the MCFAs. Our findings suggested that all tested products, both individual and synergistic forms of MCFAs, have possessed a strong anti-ASFV effect and this effect is dose- dependence in in vitro feed and water models. Additionally, synergistic effects of MCFAs are more effective against ASFV when compared to individual form. The further studies focusing on in vivo anti-ASFV effects of MCFAs are very important to bring new insight into the mode of ASFV-reduced action by these compounds in swine feed and water consumption.
Harnessing the Strategy of Metagenomics for Exploring the Intestinal Microecology of Sable (Martes Zibellina), the National First-Level Protected Animal
Authors: Yan Jiakuo , Wu Xiaoyang , Chen Jun , Chen Yao , Zhang Honghai
Published: June 2020

Sable (Martes zibellina), belongs to Carnivora, Mustelidae and Maretes, was mainly distributed among the cold northern zone of Eurasia. The purpose of this study is to explore the intestinal flora of the sable by the method of the metagenomic library-based technique, libraries were sequenced on an Illumina HiSeq 4000 instrument. Effective Data volume of each sample is above 6000M, the ratio of the Effective Data (the Clean Data) to original Data (Raw Data) is over 98%. According to the analysis of statistical data, the Total length of ORF is about 603,031, which is 347.36 Mbp. We contrast the unique function of genes with KEGG database, we acquire 7140 genes (KO), a total of all the samples KO is 129788. We selected higher abundance genes to draw cluster heat maps, and according to the results of the KEGG metabolic pathway annotations, we acquire the gene function，including metabolism, environmental information processing, genetic information processing, cellular process and organismal systems. We contrast the unique function of genes with CAZy database, the functional carbohydrate hydrolases have corresponding genes in the intestinal microorganisms of the sable. This is closely related to the fact that the sable is adapted to cold environments and requires a large amount of energy to maintain its metabolic activity. We contrast the unique function of genes with eggNOG database，the main functions of genes included gene duplication, recombination and repair, transport and metabolism of amino acids, transport and metabolism of carbohydrates, etc.
Genes, mechanisms and novel EST-SSR markers associated with metribuzin tolerance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.): targets for improving photosynthetic capacity and yield
Authors: Bhoite Roopali , Si Ping , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Yan Guijun
Published: June 2020

Background

Weed infestation is one of the major yield-reducing factors in wheat in dry-land farming. Metribuzin is a broad-spectrum herbicide which allow effective weed management in wheat but the narrow safety margin results in crop damage decreasing grain yield. Improving our understanding of the genetic and genomic basis for metribuzin tolerance opens the potential to enhance herbicide tolerance and better productivity in wheat. The present investigation examines the genes involved in regulation of metribuzin tolerance including genetic/signalling pathways, transcription factors, phytohormones, and gene based EST-SSR markers related to photosynthesis and metabolic detoxification.
Results

Transcriptome sequencing of most diverse genotypes using high throughput NovaSeq 6000 RNA-Seq platform identified a total of 77,443 genes, of which 59,915 were known genes and 17,528 were novel genes. The integrative analyses of the expression profiles of genes and pathways at 0 h, 24 h and 60 h herbicide exposure indicated that modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis and endogenous increase of light-harvesting chlorophyll (Lhc) a/b-binding proteins, PSII stability factor HCF136, metabolic detoxification enzymes (peroxidase, cytochrome P450, glycosyltransferase, glutathione transferase, oxidoreductase), and glucose metabolism conferred metribuzin tolerance in wheat. The validation of DEGs related to photosynthesis (Lhc a/b-binding proteins and PSII stability factor HCF136) and metabolic enzymes (cytochrome P450, peroxidase) using RT-qPCR confirmed their responsiveness to metribuzin. Over-expression of transcription factors MYB, AP2-EREBP, ABI3VP1, bHLH, and NAC played a significant roles in regulating photosynthetic and ROS scavenging activities during metribuzin stress. Transcripts with significant enrichments (q-value < 0.05), related to photosynthesis and metabolic detoxification revealed 114 EST-SSRs which may be used as bio-markers.
Conclusions

The integrative analyses of the data suggests that high amount of sugars, modulation of ROS homeostasis and enhanced photosynthetic activity play a significant role in regulating metribuzin tolerance in wheat. Our data identified master regulators controlling metribuzin tolerance that provide promising avenues for wheat industry.
Prognostic implications of stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and programmed death ligand 1 expression in HER2-positive invasive breast cancer
Authors: Wang Xinran , Zhang Ningning , LI Shi , Yin Danjing , Liu Yueping
Published: June 2020

Background: Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are known to be an important prognostic factor of specific breast cancer subtypes. However, to date, PD-L1（SP142）expression and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) has been only minimally reported in HER2-positive breast cancer cases. Methods: In this study, CD8,CD4 and PD-L1（SP142） were performed on tissue microarrays (TMA) representing 156 pretreatment cases of HER2-positive invasive breast carcinoma. Clinical data were collected, all cases were with complete follow-up data (23 recurrence and 2 deaths). The concordance rate in the tumor immune microenvironment(TIME) classification based on the PD-L1（SP142）expression status and CD8/CD4+TILs count was analyzed. Results: PD-L1 expression was identified in 49 cases (31.4%) in immune cells. We found there was no association was found between PD-L1 expression and DFS, but TIME classification was associated with DFS. Conclusion TIME-CD4 and TIME-CD8 lymphocyte infiltration was related to DFS in HER2-positive breast cancer.
GLP-1R activation is a key pathway to alleviate the metabolic disorder in L02 cells
Authors: Tian Qiao ji , Liu Yifeng , Liu Jia , Yuan Peng , Li Haizhi , Han Xiaofeng , Pan Cong , Duan Shenglin , Xia Kai
Published: June 2020

Background

Glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1) has been shown to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism in the liver by promoting insulin secretion. However, the direct regulation of GLP-1 on liver glucose and lipid metabolism was still controversial, due to the presence of GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1R) in human liver has not been determined. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of GLP-1R in L02 cells (normal human hepatocytes), and to explore the direct effect of GLP-1, on hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism.
Methods

The insulin resistance (IR) cell model with metabolic disorder was constructed using FFAs (including oleic acid and fructose) to simulate the metabolic syndrome caused by high-fat and high-fructose in modern diet.
Results

The results showed that GLP-1R is expressed in L02 cells, and reduced in L02 with IR. The RNA interference experiment of GLP-1R suggested that GLP-1R activation decreased glycogenesis and increased intracellular glycogen content via AKT pathway independent of PI3K, and increased fatty acid oxidation and decreased lipid accumulation via AMPK pathway.
Conclusions

These results indicate that GLP-1 could directly regulate hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism by activating GLP-1R, which could be potential therapeutic targets. GLP-1R activation leads to reduction of gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis via PI3K-independent AKT pathway and AMPK pathway.
Efficacy of Duloxetine Compared with Opioid for Postoperative Pain Control Following Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Kim Man Soo , Koh In Jun , Choi Keun Young , Yang Sung Cheol , In Yong
Published: June 2020

BackgroundOpioid is known to be effective in pain control after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, recently it has become a major concern due to addiction. Duloxetine, the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is effective for pain control in osteoarthritis patients. However, no study has compared the efficacy of the two for pain control after TKA. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of duloxetine as an alternative to opioid treatment for postoperative pain management following TKA.MethodsAmong 857 patients, 260 (30.3%) of patients received opioid or duloxetine for pain control for 6 weeks when the pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score was greater than 4 out of 10 at the time of discharge. 121 patients in the Opioid group and 118 in the Duloxetine group were followed up for more than one year. Preoperative and postoperative patient reported outcome measures (pain VAS score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index (WOMAC) score, and the rate over the minimum clinically significant difference (MCID) using WOMAC score) were compared. The rate of further drug prescription (opioid or duloxetine) after 6 weeks of first prescription, 30-day readmission rate, and side effects were also investigated.ResultsThere was no significant difference in pain VAS score, WOMAC Pain and Function score, or the rate over MCID at each time point between before and after surgery (all p > 0.05). Fifteen (11.0%) patients in the opioid group and six (4.8%) patients in the duloxetine group were prescribed additional medication after first 6 weeks, showing no significant (p > 0.05) difference in proportion. The 30-day readmission rate and the incidence of side effects were also similar (all p > 0.05).ConclusionDuloxetine has a similar effect to opioid on postoperative pain control. Thus, duloxetine can be considered as an alternative to opioid for postoperative pain control following TKA.Level of evidence:Therapeutic study Level Ⅳ.
HDL-proteome enrichment with apolipoprotein A-IV compensates for HDL loss of function in diabetes mellitus kidney disease
Authors: Santana Monique FM , Lira Aécio LA , Pinto Raphael , Minanni Carlos A , Silva Amanda RM , Sawada Maria IBAC , Nakandakare Edna R , Correa-Giannella Maria LC , Ronsein Graziella E , Queiroz Marcia S , Passarelli Marisa
Published: June 2020

Background and aims: Diabetes mellitus kidney disease (DKD) is associated with lipid derangements worsening kidney function and enhancing cardiovascular (CV) risk. The management of dyslipidemia, hypertension and other traditional risk factors does not completely prevent CV complications bringing up the participation of untraditional risk factors such as advanced glycation end products (AGEs), carbamoylation and changes in HDL proteome and functionality. We analyzed HDL composition, proteome, chemical modification and functionality in non-dialytic DKD subjects categorized according to glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and urinary albumin excretion rate (AER). Methods: DKD individuals were divided in GFR > 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 plus AER stages A1 and A2 (n = 10) and GFR < 60 plus A3 (n = 25) and matched by age with control subjects (GFR > 60; n = 8). Results: Targeted proteomic analyses quantified 29 proteins associated with HDL in all groups, although only 2 were more expressed in GFR < 60 + A3 group in comparison to controls: apolipoprotein D (apo D) and apo A-IV. HDL from GFR < 60 + A3 presented higher levels of total AGEs, pentosidine and carbamoylation (1.2, 1.1 and 4.2 times, respectively) and a reduced ability in removing 14C-cholesterol from macrophages (33%) in comparison to controls. The antioxidant role of HDL (lag time for LDL oxidation) was similar among groups but HDL from GFR < 60 + A3 presented a higher ability in inhibiting the secretion of IL6 and TNF alpha (95%) in LPS-elicited macrophages in comparison to control group. Conclusion: The increment in apo A-IV that presents many antiatherogenic actions seems to counteract the HDL chemical modification by AGE and carbamoylation and its increment in apo D that occurred in well-established DKD.
Association of Myocardial Fibrosis Detected by Late Gadolinium-Enhanced MRI with Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Zhi , Xu Rong , Wang Jia-rong , Xu Hua-yan , Fu Hang , Xie Ling-jun , Yang Meng-xi , Zhang Lu , Wen Ling-yi , Liu Hui , Li Hong , Yang Zhi-gang , Guo Ying-kun
Published: June 2020

Background Prior studies demonstrated that myocardial fibrosis assessed by late gadolinium-enhanced (LGE) MRI is associated with an increased risk for major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) or major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients with diabetes. However, the results of these studies were controversial and limited. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis assessing the associations of myocardial fibrosis detected by LGE with the risk of MACCE and MACE in patients with diabetes. Methods We selected studies using MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane by Ovid on December 2019. Prospective and retrospective studies that assessed the associations of myocardial fibrosis detected by LGE with the risk of MACCE or MACE in patients with diabetes with a disease duration of at least 12 months. Two independent reviewers performed the data extraction using a standardized form. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were evaluated by a random-effects model. Results Eight studies with 1121 patients were included in this meta-analysis, and follow-up of patients ranged from 17 to 70 months. The prevalence of LGE in the total sample was high, occurring in 38.09%. The annualized event rates (AERs) for MACCE was 11.94% in patients with diabetes and LGE. The presence of myocardial fibrosis detected by LGE was associated with an increased risk for MACCE (HR: 2.58; 95%CI 1.42-4.71; P=0.002) and MACE (HR: 5.28; 95%CI 3.20-8.70; P=0.000) in patients with diabetes. In a subgroup meta-analysis, ischemic fibrosis detected by LGE was associated with MACCE/MACE (HR 3.75, 95%CI 2.11-6.69; P=0.000) in patients with diabetes. In diabetic patients with preserved ejection fraction, the association between myocardial fibrosis detected by LGE and MACCE/MACE remained significant (HR: 4.02; 95%CI 2.22-7.25; P=0.000). All of the meta-analyses showed no significant heterogeneity from random effects. Conclusion This study demonstrated that myocardial fibrosis detected by LGE conferred an increase in the risk of MACCE/MACE in patients with diabetes and may be an imaging biomarker for risk stratification.
Occurrence of Total Aflatoxin and Zearalenone in Dairy Cattle Concentrate Feeds in Malawi
Authors: Njombwa Chunala Alexico , Hamie Joseph Chakana , Banda McLoyd
Published: June 2020

Background

The study was conducted to determine occurrence and levels of total aflatoxin and zearalenone in concentrate feedstuffs for dairy animals from selected farms in Malawi.

Methods

A total of 130 concentrate feedstuff samples were collected in paper bags from 113 randomly selected farms in the three agroecological zones (representing high, mid and low (lakeshore) altitudes) from October and December 2019. Each feed sample was ground and analyzed for total aflatoxin and zearalenone using VICAM Fluorometer Method procedures.

Results

About 85% of samples comprised of corn (maize) bran (CB), 8% for pigeon pea (PP), 2% for dairy mash, 1% for soybean and <1% for sunflower, rice bran (RB) and rice bran mixed with maize bran respectively. 75% of corn bran and 100% of dairy mash and rice bran samples were positive for zearalenone (i.e. above 100 μg/kg) while other concentrates tested negative. Incidences of total aflatoxin were 32%, 67% and 9% in CB, DM and PP bran samples respectively and negligible in other concentrates. Overall, 32% and 23% of feedstuffs had total aflatoxin concentrations above regulatory limits set by Malawi’s neighboring countries (Tanzania and Mozambique) and US respectively whereas only 6% of all the concentrate feedstuffs had zearalenone concentrations above the regulatory limit enforced by EU. Levels of total aflatoxin and zearalenone in CB were not affected by agroecological zones (P=0.17 and P=0.87) respectively. Mean total aflatoxin concentration was 35.4, 28.1 and 38.2 μg/kg in High, Lakeshore and Mid agroecologies respectively whereas zearalenone concentration was 249.7, 226.8 and 243.9 μg/kg respectively.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report prevalence of various mycotoxins in dairy concentrate feedstuffs in Malawi. Aflatoxin and zearalenone contamination in dairy concentrates exist but mostly in levels within tolerable limits at least from the limited timeframe of this study. However, presence of total aflatoxin above regulatory limits in 26 - 34% of corn bran, a major concentrate feedstuff, points to the need for deliberate efforts to ensure levels are kept low in dairy animal feeds for both safety of dairy animals and consumers in Malawi.
The Regulatory Effect of Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide on I κ B Phosphorylation and NF - κ B Nuclear Translocation in RAW264.7 Cells
Authors: Yin Hong , Bai Lili , Deng Shuying , Li Lihua , Liu Tingting , Cai Huizhen
Published: June 2020

Scope: RAW264.7 cells was used to study the regulatory effect of LBP on I κ B phosphorylation and NF - κ B nuclear translocation.Methods: (1)After 5, 10, 20 and 30 minutes of LBP intervention, Western blotting was used to detect the expression of I κ B and P-I κ B in each group, (2)After 5 minutes of intervention with different doses of LBP,Western blotting was used to detect the expression of P-I κ B and I κ B in the cells of each group, (3)After 30 minutes of LBP intervention, the distribution of NF - κ B nuclear translocation was observed by immunofluorescence, and the number of NF - κ B nuclear translocation was detected by Western blotting.Results : The results of the time-dependent regulation of I κ B phosphorylation by LBP showed that when stimulated by LPS, I κ B phosphorylated rapidly, the level of P-I κ B increased and I κ B decreased, and the level of I κ B increased at each time point in the combined treatment group of LPS (1 μ g / ml) + LBP (25 μ g / ml).After LPS stimulation, the expression of I κ B decreased and the expression of phosphorylated I κ B increased (P < 0.05); after LPS (L μ g / ml) + LBP (25,50 μ g / ml), the level of I κ B increased (P < 0.05).After LPS stimulation, the green fluorescence was mainly distributed in the nuclear area, and after LBP stimulation, the distribution of green fluorescence was slightly increased; in LPS + LBP group, the distribution of green fluorescence in the cytoplasm was increased, and the distribution of green fluorescence in the nucleus was decreased. After LPS stimulation, NF - κ B level in cytoplasm decreased (P < 0.05), and NF - κ B level in nucleus increased significantly (P < 0.05). After LPS (L μ g / ml) + LBP (25, 50, 100 μ g / ml), NF - κ B level in cytoplasm increased (P < 0.05), and NF - κ B level in nucleus decreased (P < 0.05).Conclusion: Collectively, these results suggested that LBP's anti-inflammatory effects were relevant to the interruption of NF-kappa B activation.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of GATA Family Genes in Brassica Napus
Authors: Zhu Weizhuo , Guo Yiyi , Chen Yeke , Wu Dezhi , Jiang Lixi
Published: June 2020

Background: GATA transcription factors are involved in plant developmental processes, which also respond to environmental stresses through binding DNA regulatory regions to regulate the downstream genes. However, little information of GATA genes is available in Brassica napus, one of important oil crops. The release of B. napus genome sequences provides a good opportunity to perform a genome-wide characterization of GATA family genes in the rapeseed genome. Results: In this study, 96 GATA genes randomly distributing on 19 chromosomes were identified in B. napus. They were classified into four subfamilies on the basis of phylogenetic analysis and the domain structures. The sequences of BnGATAs were obvious divergence among four subfamilies based on their GATA domains, structures and motif compositions. Gene duplication and the synteny between the genomes of B. napus and A. thaliana were also analyzed to provide insights into the evolutionary characteristics. Moreover, BnGATAs showed different expression patterns in various tissues and under diverse abiotic stresses. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) distribution analysis suggests functional disparity of GATA family genes in different genotypes of a core collection germplasm.Conclusion: This study examined genomic structures, evolution features, expression patterns and SNP distribution of 96 BnGATAs. The results enriched our knowledge of the GATA genes in rapeseed.
The corticosterone-glucocorticoid receptor-AP1/CREB axis inhibits luteinizing hormone receptor expression in mouse granulosa cells
Authors: Wei Yinghui , Shen Ming
Published: June 2020

Background

Under stress conditions, luteinizing hormone (LH)-mediated ovulation is inhibited, resulting in insufficient oocyte production and excretion during follicular development. When the body is stressed, a large amount of corticosterone (CORT) is generated, which will lead to disorder of the body's endocrine system and damage to the body. Our previous work showed that corticosterone can block follicular development in mice. Since LH acts through binding with the LH receptor (LHR), the present study aimed to investigate whether and how CORT influence luteinizing hormone receptor expression in mouse ovarian granulosa cells (GCs).
Methods

For this purpose, 3-week-old ICR female mice were injected intraperitoneally with pregnant horse serum gonadotropin (PMSG). Meanwhile, the treatment group were injected with corticosterone corticosterone (1 mg/mouse) at intervals of 8 h; while the control group was injected with same volume of methyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Granulosa cells were collected at 24 h, 48 h, and 55 h after PMSG injection. For in vitro experiments, mice granulosa cells obtained from healthy follicles were treated with corticosterone alone, or together with inhibitors against glucocorticoid receptor (GR).
Results

The results showed that corticosterone caused down-regulation of luteinizing hormone receptor expression in granulosa cells, which was accompanied by impaired cell viability. Moreover, the effects of corticosterone was mediated by binding to its receptor in granulosa cells. Further investigations revealed that glucocorticoid receptor might regulated the transcription of luteinizing hormone receptor through inhibiting the expression of luteinizing hormone receptor transcription factors, including AP1 and CREB.
Conclusions

Our findings suggested a possible mechanism of corticosterone-induced anovulation involving the inhibition of luteinizing hormone receptor expression in granulosa cells by corticosterone-glucocorticoid receptor-AP1 / CREB axis.
Application of Biological Pretreatment using Enzyme Extracts from Filamentous Fungi to Improve Ruminal Degradability of Oil Palm Fronds.
Authors: Azmi Mohammad Azri , Yusof Mohd. Termizi , Zakaria Zunita , Mustapha Noordin Mohamed , Saad Mohd Zamri , Hassim Hasliza Abu
Published: June 2020

Background

Malaysia is one of the largest producer of palm oil in the world with yearly yield of 19 000 million tonnes. With its large scale production of palm oil, Malaysia produces approximately 30 million tonnes of oil palm fronds (OPF) annually. The OPF as the main agricultural by-product in Malaysia have limited use especially as ruminant feed. It is due to its poor degradability which is caused by its high lignin content. One of the most promising method to increase the utilization of OPF as ruminant feed is via biological pretreatment. Previous study has shown an increase of 12% of ruminal degradability when pretreated using enzyme extract from white rot fungi
Results

The isolation of fungi yielded 11 fungi isolates. Upon the determination of their laccase, manganese peroxidase, lignin peroxidase, carboxylmethylcellulase, avicelase and xylanase, fungi F1, F2 and F4 were selected as the fungi with desirable enzyme activity. The fungi F1, F2 and F4 were then identified as Trichoderma harzianum MK027304, Trichoderma harzianum MK027305 and Fusarium solani MK027307 respectively. The highest total gas production was produced by OPF pretreated with enzyme extract from 15 days of solid state fermentation of Trichoderma harzianum MK027304. The highest methane was produced by OPF pretreated with enzyme extract from 30 days of solid state fermentation of Trichoderma harzianum MK027305. Highest volatile acid produced by OPF pretreated with enzyme extract from Fusarium solani MK027307 after 45 days of solid state fermentation. The apparent rumen degradable carbohydrate of the pretreatment also showed the highest increase over the unpretreated OPF with increment of 35.29%.
Conclusions

The pretreatment using enzyme extract from 45 days of solid state fermentation of Fusarium solani MK027307 have shown the ability to increase the degradability of OPF by 35.29%. This finding may decrease the feeding cost of ruminant by increasing the effectiveness of utilization of OPF.
LncRNA HCG11 inhibits adipocyte differentiation in human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells by sponging miR-204-5p to upregulate SIRT1
Authors: Li Dandan , Liu Yang , Gao Wei , Han Jiakai , Yuan Rongrong , Zhang Mengdi , Ge Zhenying
Published: June 2020

Background: LncRNAs have been discovered to play a key role in adipogenesis, vital in regulating adipose developmen t. Numerous evidences show that adipogenesis is the leading cause of obesity, while the role of lncRNA HLA complex group 11 ( HCG11 ) in adipocyte differentiation has not been elucidated. Methods: hAdMSCs were used to establish a model of cell differentiation in vitro . Expression of lncRNA HCG11 was detected by RT-qPCR analysis. Transfection of the shRNA targeting HCG11 or pcDNA-HCG11 into hAdMSCs was also assessed. The adipogenic marker proteins C/EBPα, FABP4 and PPARγ2 and important inflammatory factors IL-6 and TNF-α were detected by Western blot. Bioinformatics analysis predicted the target genes of HCG11 and mir-204-5p, which was confirmed by luciferase reporter gene analysis and RNA pull-down analysis. Results: Here we show that lncRNA HCG11 was decreased as the degree of adipogenesis. The expression of C/EBPα, FABP4 and PPARγ2 were significantly downregulated transfected with pcDNA-HCG11 in hAdMSCs at different stages, while knockdown lncRNA HCG11 can promote adipocyte differentiation. In addition, miR-204-5p was a potential target gene of HCG11 and SIRT1 could directly target miR-204-5p. Overexpression of SIRT1 or transfected with agonists of SIRT1 (Res) significantly inhibited adipogenic marker protein levels and inflammatory responses, and the proliferation of hAdMSCs were also inhibited. pcDNA-HCG11 and miR-204-5p mimic were co-transfected into hAdMSCs, we found that miR-204-5p mimic reversed the suppressor effect of pcDNA-HCG11. Conclusion: Our findings showed that HCG11 negatively regulated cell proliferation, inflammatory responses and adipogenesis by miR-204-5p/SIRT1 axis. And our findings may provide a new target for the study of adipogenesis in hAdMSCs and obesity.
An Efficient Method to Detect Communities in Social Networks
Authors: KHATOON MEHJABIN , Banu W. Aisha
Published: June 2020

Social networks represent the social structure, which is composed of individuals having social interactions among them. The interactions between the units in a social network represent the relations of the various social contacts and aim at finding different individuals in that network, with similar interests. It is a challenging problem to detect the social interactions between individuals with comparable considerations and desires from a large social network, which can be termed as community detection. Detection of the communities from social networks has been done by other authors previously, and many community identification algorithms were also proposed, but those communities' identification has been achieved on the online available data sets. The proposed algorithm in this paper has been named as Average Degree Newman Girvan (ADNG) algorithm, which can easily identify the communities from the real-time data sets, collected from the social network websites. The approach presented here is based on first determining the average degree of the network graph and then identifying the communities using the Newman Girvan algorithm. The proposed algorithm has been compared with three community detection algorithms, i.e., Leading eigenvector (LEC) algorithm, Fastgreedy (FG) algorithm, and Kernighan-Lin (KL) algorithm based on a few metric functions. This algorithm helps to detect communities for different domains, like for any proposed government policy, online shopping products, newly launched products in a market, etc.
Does a Preoperative Cone Beam Ct Reduce Complication Rates in the Surgical Removal of Complex Lower Third Molars? A Retrospective Study Including 486 Cases
Authors: Klatt Jan , Sorowka Tony , Kluwe Lan , Smeets Ralf , Gosau Martin , Hanken Henning
Published: June 2020

BackroundThis study was designed to analyse the value of preoperative Cone Beam CTs prior to the surgical removal of complex lower third molars. Furthermore, the aim was to assess injuries to the inferior alveolar nerve bundle and postoperative neurological disorders depending on the position of the lower third molar and theinferior alveolar nerve bundle.MethodsPreoperative Cone Beam CTs and Orthopantomographs of 324 patients were analysed concerning the location of the lower third molars in relation to the mandible and the inferior alveolar nerve bundle. Surgery protocols of all patients who underwent the surgical removal of at least one complex lower third molar were analysed concerning patient data, length of surgery, intraoperative haemorrhage, intraoperative exposure of the inferior alveolar nerve bundle, postoperative swelling and postoperative neurological disorders. The data was then compared to data from international studies.ResultsIn all 324 patients a permanent neurological damage was not found. Temporary neurological damage was recorded in 13 cases (2.6%). A caudal nerve position with no measurable distance to the root of the lower third molar was associated with the highest risk of a temporal neurological damage. A vestibular touching nerve route also correlated with postoperative sensitivity impairment.ConclusionsThree-dimensional radiographic imaging,in our patient group, does not significantly affect the risk for complications during the surgical removal of complex lower third molars,but allows the surgeon to choose the best surgical approch for a fast and most atraumatic operation. Therefore, it should only be utilized for risk assessment, especially in cases of symptom-free lower third molars. A preoperative orthopantomogram still can be accepted as standard for radiographic imaging. The interpretation of the orthopantomogram may lead to the indication for three-dimensional imaging, if signs of increased surgery risk are present.
The risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors
Authors: Ling Ann Wan-Chin , Chan Cze-Ci , Chen Shao-Wei , Kao Wei-Yi , Huang Chien-Ying , Chan Yi-Hsin , Chu Pao-Hsien
Published: June 2020

Purpose: Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) reduced the risk of hard cardiovascular endpoints in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with/without established cardiovascular diseases. Whether SGLT2i is associated with a lower risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) in T2DM patients is unclear. We aimed to evaluate the risk of new-onset AF associated with the use of SGLT2i compared to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) among a longitudinal cohort of diabetic patients. Methods: We used medical data from a multi-center healthcare provider in Taiwan, which included a total of 21,480 and 22,989 patients treated with SGLT2i and DPP4i, respectively, from June 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018. We used propensity-score weighting to balance covariates across study groups. Patients were followed up from the drug index date until the occurrence of new-onset AF, discontinuation of the index drug, or the end of the study period, whichever occurred first. Results: Overall, 56%, 42%, and 2% of the patients were treated with empagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and canagliflozin, respectively. Most patients in the DPP4i group were prescribed with linagliptin (51%), followed by sitagliptin (24%), saxagliptin (13%), vildagliptin (8%) and alogliptin (4%). The use of SGLT2i was associated with a lower risk of new-onset AF compared with DPP4i after propensity-score weighting [adjusted hazard ratio: 0.69; 95% confidential interval: 0.64-0.74; P < 0.001]. Subgroup analysis revealed that the use of SGLT2i was associated with a lower risk of new-onset AF compared with DPP4i across several subgroups including old age, the presence of congestive heart failure, cardiovascular disease, overweight patients, hemoglobin A1c 8%, and chronic kidney disease. The advantage of SGLT2i over DPP4i persisted with different SGLT2i (dapagliflozin or empagliflozin) and either low- or standard-dose SGLT2i. Conclusions: SGLT2i was associated with a lower risk of new-onset AF compared with DPP4i among T2DM patients in real-world practice.
Angiopoietin-like protein 4 and clinical outcomes in ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Zheng Xiaowei , Shen Suwen , Wang Aili , Zhu Zhengbao , Peng Yanbo , Peng Hao , Zhong Chongke , Guo Daoxia , Xu Tan , Chen Jing , Ju Zhong , Geng Deqin , Zhang Yonghong , He Jiang
Published: June 2020

Background and aims

Angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL-4) had been reported to be associated with the risk of ischemic stroke, but its prognostic value remained unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between plasma ANGPTL-4 concentrations and prognosis of ischemic stroke.

Methods

Baseline plasma ANGPTL-4 concentrations were measured in 3379 acute ischemic stroke patients. The primary outcome was a combination of death or major disability (modified Rankin Scale score, ≥3) at 3 months after ischemic stroke, and secondary outcomes included major disability, death, stroke recurrence and vascular events.

Results

At 3 months after ischemic stroke, 850 (26.16%) participants experienced major disability or died (750 major disabilities and 100 deaths). After adjusting for important covariates, odds ratios for the highest tertile of plasma ANGPTL-4 concentrations were 1.59(1.22-2.06) for primary outcome, 1.53(1.18-1.97) for major disability and 2.03(1.03-4.00) for death when compared to the lowest tertile of plasma ANGPTL-4 concentrations. For 1-SD increase of log-ANGPTL-4 concentrations (0.44 ng/ml), the adjusted odds ratios were 1.24(1.11-1.38), 1.14(1.03-1.27) and 1.72(1.32-2.23), respectively. Adding ANGPTL-4 to a model containing conventional risk factors improved risk prediction for composite outcome of death and major disability (net reclassification improvement index=11.36%, p =0.014; integrated discrimination improvement=0.22%, p =0.033). There were no significant associations between plasma ANGPTL-4 concentrations and risks of stroke recurrence and vascular events.

Conclusion

Higher plasma ANGPTL-4 concentration was associated with poor prognosis in acute ischemic stroke patients, suggesting that ANGPTL-4 might be a prognostic marker for ischemic stroke.
Sortilin levels correlate with major cardiovascular events of diabetic patients with peripheral artery disease following revascularization: a prospective study
Authors: Biscetti Federico , Nardella Elisabetta , Rando Maria Margherita , Cecchini Andrea Leonardo , Bonadia Nicola , Bruno Piergiorgio , Angelini Flavia , Stasi Carmine Di , Contegiacomo Andrea , Santoliquido Angelo , Pitocco Dario , Landolfi Raffaele , Flex Andrea
Published: June 2020

Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) represents one of the most relevant vascular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Moreover, T2DM patients suffering from PAD have an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and major adverse limb events (MALE). Sortilin, a protein involved in apolipoproteins trafficking, is associated with lower limb PAD in T2DM patients.Objective: To evaluate the relationship between baseline level of Sortilin levels, MACE and MALE occurrence after revascularization of T2DM patients with PAD and chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI).Research Design and Methods: We performed a prospective non-randomized study including 230 statin-free T2DM patients with PAD and CLTI. Sortilin serum levels were measured before the endovascular intervention and incident outcomes were assessed during a 12-month follow-up.Results: Sortilin levels were significantly increased in individuals with more aggressive PAD (2.25 ± 0.51 ng/mL vs 1.44 ± 0.47 ng/mL, p < 0.001). During follow-up, 83 MACE and 116 MALE occurred. In patients, who then developed MACE and MALE, Sortilin was higher. In particular, 2.46 ± 0.53 ng/mL vs 1.55 ± 0.42 ng/mL, p < 0.001 for MACE and 2.10 ± 0.54 ng/mL vs 1.65 ± 0.65 ng/mL, p < 0.001 for MALE. After adjusting for traditional atherosclerosis risk factors, the association between Sortilin and vascular outcomes remained significant in a multivariate analysis. In our receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis using Sortilin levels the prediction of MACE incidence improved [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.94] and MALE (AUC = 0.72).Conclusions: This study demonstrates that Sortilin correlates with incidence of MACE and MALE after endovascular revascularization in a diabetic population with PAD and CLTI.
Vibration Characteristics of Rotor System with Loose Disc Caused by the Insufficient Interference Force
Authors: Li Zhi-Nong , Qiao Fang , Lu Wen Xiu , Liu Jie , Wang Dong , Chu Fu Lei
Published: June 2020

The loose of mechanical parts is one of the common failures in rotating machinery. The current researches of loose fault mainly focus on non-rotating components. However, the loose of disc, which is the main work part in the rotor system, is less paid attention, and the mechanism and dynamics characteristics of the loose fault are also almost ignored. In this paper, a dynamic contact model of the rotor system with loose disc is established considering the microscopic surface topography. Through the numerical simulation, the vibration characteristics of the disc-shaft rotor system are analyzed and discussed. The simulation results are further verified by experiments. The results show that the rotation state of the disc is affected by the rotation speed of the shaft, contact stiffness, a gap between the disc and shaft, damping of the disc, and the rotational damping. When the speed difference between the disc and shaft is zero or large, the collision frequency is mainly composed of one frequency component. When the rotational speed of the disc approaches the shaft, the beating vibration phenomenon of the disc occurs in the horizontal direction. As the decreases of relative speed between the disc and shaft, the disc trajectory changes from ‘circular’ to ‘double ring’ and then ‘circular’. The research results on nonlinear dynamics characteristics of the loose disc has important theoretical value and practical application value, and makes up for its shortcomings in the rotor system with loose disc.
Self-managed medication abortion outcomes: results from a prospective pilot study
Authors: Moseson Heidi , Jayaweera Ruvani , Raifman Sarah , Keefe-Oates Brianna , Filippa Sofia , Motana Relebohile , Egwuatu Ijeoma , Grosso Belén , Kristianingrum Ika , Nmezi Sybil , Zurbriggen Ruth , Gerdts Caitlin
Published: June 2020

Background: To evaluate the feasibility of conducting a prospective study to measure self-managed medication abortion outcomes, and to collect preliminary data on safety and effectiveness of self-managed medication abortion, we recruited callers to accompaniment groups (volunteer networks that provide counselling through the out-of-clinic medication abortion process by trained counselors over the phone or in-person).Methods: In 2019, we enrolled callers to three abortion accompaniment groups in three countries into a prospective study on the safety and effectiveness of self-managed medication abortion with accompaniment support. Participants completed up to five interview-administered questionnaires from baseline through six-weeks after taking the pills. Primary outcomes included: (1) the proportion that had a complete abortion; and (2) the proportion who experienced any warning signs of potential or actual complications.Results: Over the 30-day recruitment period, we enrolled 227 participants. At the one-week follow-up, two participants (1%) reported a miscarriage prior to taking the pills, and 202 participants (89% of those enrolled and 99% of those who participated in the one-week survey) had obtained and taken the medications. Three weeks after taking the medications, 192 (95%) participants reported feeling that their abortion was complete, and 189 (94%) felt their abortion was complete and had not reported a surgical intervention. Three (1.5%) received a surgical intervention, two (1%) received antibiotics, and five (3%) other medications. Participants did not report any major adverse events.Conclusion: These results establish the feasibility of conducting prospective studies of self-managed medication abortion in legally restrictive settings. Further, these prospectively collected pilot data suggest that self-managed medication abortion with accompaniment support may be safe and effective. Trial Registration: ISRCTN95769543
Modeling the β secretase cleavage site and humanizing Amyloid-Beta Precursor Protein in rat and mouse to study Alzheimer Disease.
Authors: Serneels Lutgarde , T'Syen Dries , Perez-Benito Laura , Theys Tom , De Strooper Bart
Published: June 2020

Background Three amino acid differences between rodent and human APP affect medically important features including β-secretase cleavage of APP and aggregation of the Aβ peptide(1–3). Most rodent models for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are therefore based on the human APP sequence expressed from artificial mini-genes randomly inserted in the rodent genome. While these models mimic rather well biochemical aspects of the disease such as Aβ-aggregation, they are also prone to overexpression artifacts and to complex phenotypical alterations due to genes affected in or close to the insertion sites of the mini-genes(4,5). Knock-in strategies introducing clinical mutants in a humanized endogenous rodent APP sequence(6) represent useful improvements, but need to be compared with appropriate humanized wild type (WT) mice.Methods Computational modelling of the human β-CTF bound to BACE1 was used to study the differential processing of rodent and human APP. We humanized the three pivotal residues G676R, F681Y and R684H (labeled according to the human APP770 isoform) in the mouse as well as in the rat by a CRISPR-Cas9 approach. These new models, termed mouse and rat App hu/hu , express APP from the endogenous promotor. We also introduced the early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD) mutation M139T into the endogenous Rat Psen 1 gene.Results We show that the three amino acid substitutions in the rodent sequence lower the affinity of APP substrate for BACE1 cleavage. The effect on β-secretase processing was confirmed as both humanized rodent models produce three times more (human) Aβ compared to their WT rodent original strain. These models represent suitable controls or starting points for studying the effect of transgenes or knock-in mutations on APP processing(6). We introduced the early-onset familial Alzheimer disease (FAD) mutation M139T into the endogenous Rat Psen 1 gene and provide an initial characterization of Aβ processing in this novel rat AD model.Conclusion The different humanized APP models (rat and mouse) expressing human Aβ and PSEN1 M139T are valuable controls to study APP processing in vivo and allow to implement the use of human Aβ Elisa which is more sensitive than their rodent counterpart. These animals will be made available to the research community.
Effect of COVID-19 pandemic on anxiety and burnout levels in emergency healthcare workers: a questionnaire study
Authors: Sahin Taner , Aslaner Humeyra , Eker Ozlem Olguner , Gokcek Mebrure Beyza , Dogan Murat
Published: June 2020

BackgroundDuring the COVID19 pandemic, an increase in anxiety and burnout levels may occur unwittingly due to the increased workload and intense stress experienced by emergency healthcare workers dealing with potential or suspected COVID-19 and other emergency patients. In our study, it is aimed to investigate whether there is an increase of anxiety and burnout levels of the healthcare workers working in ES and pandemic fields fighting against the outbreak of COVID-19 in Turkey, compared to other healthcare workers.MethodsThe study was carried out between April 1 to May 15, 2020, with the online questionnaire method with the participation of 920 healthcare workers that are working actively in pandemic hospitals, emergency call ambulances, primary healthcare institutions and dental hospitals across the country. In the questionnaire, the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants were questioned, and Beck anxiety scale (BAI) and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were applied. ResultsThe median age of the participants was 35.00 (minimum 20, maximum: 65), 59.2% were female and 40.8% were male. 22.3% of the personnel were working in the ES, 20.9% in the ambulance, 12.2% in the pandemic polyclinics. The pandemic area and the intensive care workers' BAI score are similar to those in the emergency service and ambulance (p = 0.05). The MBI-desensitization score of those working in the field of ED, ICUs and pandemics was higher than other places (p <0.05). The MBI-emotional score of the emergency and ambulance workers was higher (p = 0.001), and the MBI-personal accomplishment score was lower than radiology, laboratory and office personnel (p=0.049).ConclusionsThe COVID-19 outbreak may create stress in healthcare workers, leading to various psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and burnout syndrome. Early recognition, prevention and coping methods of burnout and anxiety in healthcare workers play a key role in during the pandemic period.