bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ceramic bricks containing Ni ions from contaminated biomass used as adsorbent
Authors: Simón Daiana , Quaranta Nancy , Gass Sebastián , Procaccini Raúl , Cristóbal Adrián
Published: July 2020

This article shows how pine sawdust residues can be used to adsorb nickel ions from synthetic solutions and then to produce porous bricks for civil construction using a mixture of natural clay and biomass containing the adsorbed metals. The adsorption tests were performed by mixing NiCl2 solutions with pine sawdust during a fixed stirring period of 24 h. The set was filtered and the filtrate was analysed. Highest efficiency adsorbate/adsorbent ratio was 1 mol L-1 of NiCl2 solution and 20 g L-1 of pine sawdust. This was the contaminated biomass sample used in the manufacture of the bricks. This paper analyses the properties of the bricks achieved and compares them with bricks without added biomass, porous bricks containing zinc and commercial bricks. The obtained values ​​of apD: bulk density, aspW: apparent specific weight, apP: apparent porosity, H2O Abs: water absorption, apV: apparent volume, LOI: weight loss on ignition, σstr: compression fracture stress, MOR: flexural modulus of rupture and RE: retention efficiency, demonstrate that the ceramic pieces obtained are optimal for construction.
Morphological Plasticity in a Wild Freshwater Fish, Systomus Sarana (Cyprinidae) from India: A Glimpse Through Advanced Morphometric Toolkits
Authors: Gupta Deepmala , Dwivedi Arvind Kumar , Tripathi Madhu
Published: July 2020

BackgroundBody morphology supposed to underpin a wide differences of animal performance that can be used to understand diversification of characters. Further, identifying fish population with unique shape due to variations in their morphometric characters enables better management of these subunits. Advanced statistical toolkits of morphometry called truss network system and geometric morphometrics have been increasingly used for detecting variations in morphological traits. Present study was carried out with the objective of determining whether there are morphological characteristics that separate freshwater fish Systomus sarana from different groups.MethodsIn the present study, 154 specimens of olive barb, S. sarana were collected from four distantly located rivers covering the northern (Ganga), southern (Godavari), central (Narmada) and eastern (Mahanadi) regions of India. Truss-network system and geometric morphometrics have been utilized. Fourteen landmarks were digitized uniformly on each specimen, In the present study, truss network system yielded size-corrected morphometric characters were subjected to univariate and multivariate statistical assessment.ResultsAnalysis of variance (ANOVA) presented significant differences among 63 out of 90 variables (p < 0.05). Truss approach includes principal component analysis (PCA) and discriminant function analysis (DFA) while geometric approach includes PCA, DFA, canonical variate analysis (CVA), partial least square (PLS), the relative warp (RW) and wireframes. CVA extracted Mahalanobis and Procrustes distances among groups found to be highly significant (p < 0.0001). In linear DFA, the overall assignment of correctly classified individuals into their original groups was 86.2% for Ganga, 86.1% for the Godavari, 93.9% for the Narmada and 92.9% for Mahanadi population.ConclusionsThe results revealed significant variations in the morphometric characters which were reflected in the shape of different body features of the studied populations. Both methods revealed analogous results, and significant differences among groups in examined features. Our results suggest that S. sarana shows morphological plasticity across different rivers in India. This study supports the concept that geographical isolation among fish populations can lead to morphological variations.
Erythrotropin for Treating Anemia in Multiple Myeloma: Response to Treatment and Survival
Authors: Jiang Yu , Cao Di , Xu Juan , Niu Ting , Wu Yu , Zhu Huanling , Zheng Suping , Liao Xiaomei , Xu Caigang
Published: July 2020

Background

Anemia is a common complication of multiple myeloma (MM). Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) and blood transfusions are two general treatments for anemia.
Methods

In a retrospective study, we compared the efficacy and treatment response of rhEPO to those of blood transfusions on anemia and sought to determine its prognostic value in for these patients. The 94 patients who received rhEPO were divided into high-dose (≥160,000 U/month) and low-dose (< 160,000 U/month) groups; 97 other patients received blood transfusions.
Results

Patients receiving rhEPO had significantly higher hemoglobin concentrations after 3 (112.65 v. 86.10 dg/L) and 6 (128.96 v. 91.41 dg/L) months of treatment (P < 0.001 for both comparisons). Furthermore, the high-dose rhEPO group had higher mean hemoglobin concentrations than those of the low-dose group after 3 (41 v. 34 g/L) and 6 (57 v. 49 g/L) months of treatment, respectively. The risks of death and relapse were significantly lower in patients receiving either dose of rhEPO that in the transfusion group. Receiving rhEPO was associated with better overall and progression-free survival (68 v. 52 months, 39 v. 27 months).
Conclusions

We believe rhEPO should be preferred to blood transfusions for treating the anemia associated with MM.
Bayesian Response Adaptive Randomization in Clinical Trials With a Time-trend: Application to a Real Trial
Authors: Jiang Yunyun , Zhao Wenle , Durkalski-Mauldin Valerie
Published: July 2020

Background

In clinical trials with a large sample size, time-trend in response rates can affect the performance of Bayesian response adaptive randomization (BRAR).
Methods

To evaluate this impact, we utilize data from a previously completed randomized controlled trial that used a fixed 1:1 allocation. Subject response data from this study demonstrate a clear time-trend in the control group, but not in the treatment group. In this simulation study, we re-assign patients to treatment groups based on a BRAR algorithm, to examine the performance of BRAR as measured by the treatment effect estimation, the probability of early stopping, and the shift in adaptive allocation.
Results

Results from specific simulated study scenario show that in the presence of a time-trend, the timing of the first interim analysis is critical for the efficacy/futility decision making. Compared with fixed equal allocation, BRAR results in a higher probability of premature early stopping when time-trend effect exists. The magnitude of such impact varies among different BRAR algorithms.
Conclusions

Influential factors such as time trend, should be considered when planning the implementation of BRAR in large trials.
Trial Registration:
URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00235495. Registered on October 10, 2005.
Bioclimatic Zonation and Potential Distribution of Spodoptera Frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in South Kivu Province, DR Congo
Authors: Cokola Marcellin Cuma , Mugumaarhahama Yannick , Bisimwa Espoir Basengere , Grégoire Noël , Bugeme David Mugisho , Chuma Géant Basimine , Byamungu Adrien Ndeko , Francis Frédéric
Published: July 2020

Background: the fall Armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith), is currently a devastating pest throughout the world due to its dispersal capacity and voracious feeding behaviour on several crops. A MaxEnt species distributions model (SDM) was developed based on collected FAW occurrence and environmental data’s. Bioclimatic zones were identified and the potential distribution of FAW in South Kivu, eastern DR Congo, was predicted.Results: Mean annual temperature (bio1), annual rainfall (bio12), temperature seasonality (bio4) and longest dry season duration (llds) mainly affected the FAW potential distribution. The average area under the curve value of the model was 0.827 demonstrating the model efficient accuracy. According to Jackknife test of variable importance, the annual rainfall was found to correspond to the highest gain when used in isolation. FAWs’ suitable areas where this pest is likely to be present in South Kivu province are divided into two corridors. The Eastern corridor covering the Eastern areas of Kalehe, Kabare, Walungu, Uvira and Fizi territories and the Western corridor covering the Western areas of Kalehe, Kabare, Walungu and Mwenga. Conclusions: This research provides important information on the distribution of FAW and bioclimatic zones in South Kivu. Given the rapid spread of the insect and the climatic variability observed in the region that favor its development and dispersal, it would be planned in the future to develop a monitoring system and effective management strategies to limit it spread and crop damage.
The effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Biofilm Formation and Virulence Genes Expression
Authors: abdelraheem wedad , Mohamed Ebtisam S.
Published: July 2020

Background: Due to increased resistance to antimicrobial agents, infectious disease remains a public health problem worldwide. Aim: The current study was designed to examine the effect of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO –np) against the biofilm formation ability of P.aeruginosa clinical isolates and to study its effect on the expression level of the genes involved in biofilm formation and virulence factors production. Methodology: The MIC of ZnO –np against P. aeruginosa was determined by the broth microdilution method. The Effect of ZnO –np on the biofilm-forming isolates of P. aeruginosa was monitored by the microtiter plate method. P.aeruginosa isolates were tested for the expression of different biofilm and virulence genes using real-time rt-PCR. Results: ZnO –np significantly downregulated the expression level of all biofilm and virulence genes of P.aeruginosa clinical isolates except the toxA gene. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the promising use of ZnO –np as an anti-biofilm and anti-virulence compound.
Study on the application of a new type of vertebral plate nail guide
Authors: Sun Ma ji , Wang Qiu an , Zhang Xing chen , Guo Kaijin , Yuan Feng
Published: July 2020

Objective :To explore the safety and accuracy of the novel C2 laminar staple guide through in vitro experiments. Methods 40 cases of cervical spine 3D CT data were selected to produce the same two sets of 3D printed specimens (groups a and b), and the self-made guide was used to assist nail placement on group a specimens (group A: guide nail placement group), and group b Laminate nails were placed free-hand on the specimens (group B: free-hand nailing group), and a three-dimensional modeled simulated nailing was reconstructed on the computer (group C: 3D simulated nailing group). Simultaneously measure the danger level, the position of the needle exit point and the inclination angle of the screw placement position of each group. Results :In group A, 75 screws were acceptable and 5 were dangerous. The acceptable rate was 93%, and the double cortical rate was 92%. There were 62 position-acceptable screws in group B, and 18 positions were dangerous, with an acceptable rate of 77% and a double cortical rate of 32%. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P <0.05). There was no significant difference in the accuracy of the needle point and the inclination angle of the nail channel between group A and group C (ideal nail channel). There was no significant difference between groups A and C (ideal nail channel). The comparison of the inclination angle of the nail channel is statistically significant (P <0.05). The results show that the screw assisted by the guide is closer to the ideal nail channel, which is safer than the manual nail placement, and can effectively improve the double cortical rate. Conclusion: The guide is universal, with stable structure, accurate guidance, and easy operation. It can be placed with bilateral lamina screws at the same time, shortening the time of nail placement, avoiding the collision of two-way cross screws, increase the rate of double cortex. Ultimately, efficiency and security can be improved.
Different Associations between High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Diseases in Diabetic and Non-diabetic People: A Prospective Community-based Study
Authors: Wu Zhijun , Huang Zhe , Lichtenstein Alice H. , Jin Cheng , Chen Shuohua , Hu Frank B , Wu Shouling , Gao Xiang
Published: July 2020

Background: Experimental studies found that the functionality of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) may be lost in the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM). We prospectively tested whether DM modified the association between HDL-C concentrations and cardiovascular disease (CVD).Methods: Included were 91,354 Chinese adults (8,244 participants with DM and 83,110 participants without DM) without use of lipid-lowering drugs and free of CVD or cancer at baseline (2006). The primary endpoint of interest was a composite of CVD (myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke). Cumulative average HDL-C concentrations were calculated from all available HDL-C measures at baseline (2006) and during the follow-up period (2008, 2010, 2012 and 2014).Results: During a mean of 10.4 year of follow-up, there were 5,076 CVD events identified. Presence of DM significantly modified the association between HDL-C concentrations and CVD risk (Pinteraction =0.003). The association between HDL-C concentrations and CVD followed a U-shaped curve in individuals without DM (Pnonlinearity <0.001). The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of CVD was 1.25 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06-1.48) for HDL-C concentrations <1.04 mmol/L and 1.80 (95% CI: 1.56-2.07) for HDL-C concentrations >2.07 mmol/L, relative to the lowest risk group (HDL-C concentrations of 1.30-1.42mmol/L). In participants with DM, higher HDL-C concentrations were associated with a higher risk of CVD, in a dose-response manner (Pnonlinearity =0.44; Ptrend <0.001). The adjusted HR of CVD was 1.63 (95%CI: 1.20-2.20) for HDL-C concentrations >2.07 mmol/L, relative to HDL-C concentrations of 1.30-1.42mmol/L. Conclusion: High HDL-C concentrations were paradoxically associated with increased risk of composite CVD outcomes in individuals with or without DM. However, low HDL-C concentrations failed to predict future CVD risk in individuals with DM.
Is Carbon Decoupling Likely to Happen in Africa: Evidence from Production and Consumption-Based Carbon Emissions
Authors: Tenaw Dagmawe
Published: July 2020

Background Decoupling is a green growth concept suggested as a means to achieve economic growth without or with less environmental risks. Despite extensive empirical studies made on decoupling between emissions and growth, the existing evidence is quite mixed and inconclusive. On top of that, the vast majority of studies considered emissions generated at the point of production alone which do not explicitly account for emissions associated with international trade. Accordingly, this study examines the issue of decoupling between carbon emissions and economic growth in 25 African countries over 1990-2017, considering both production and consumption-based CO2 emissions. Results The results from decoupling method and panel data estimation techniques invariably indicate some evidence of relative decoupling for production-based emissions, but no robust evidence of decoupling for consumption-related emissions. Primary energy intensity and population are found as the main drivers of carbon emissions in Africa. Further, exports and imports have insignificant effects on territorial emissions, but significant and offsetting effects on consumption-based emissions. Conclusion The main conclusion of the study is to incorporate emissions generated from consumption activities in emissions-growth linkage as production-related emissions alone would evidently be insufficient for decarbonizing economic growth. The study also suggests that climate policy measures in Africa are not fully-effective in mitigating carbon emissions and hence the need for enforcing active policy interventions and consumption-related emissions regulation in particular.
Use of Hyaluronic Acid Injection after Arthroscopic Release in Lateral Patellar Compression Syndrome with Degenerative Cartilage Changes: Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Hamawandi Sherwan
Published: July 2020

BackgroundDegenerative cartilage changes can be seen, in cases of lateral patellar compression syndrome, involving the patellofemoral joint. Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the synovial fluid and responsible for its elastic features and function of articular surfaces. The aim of this study is to show the effect of intra-articular injection of Hyaluronic acid, after arthroscopic lateral release in lateral patellar compression syndrome, on the functional outcome and knee pain in those patients with degenerative cartilage changes. MethodNinety patients age (30-50) years with lateral patellar compression syndrome and degenerative cartilage changes were divided randomly into 2 groups. Group A was treated by arthroscopic lateral release and received intrarticular injection of Hyaluronic acid 2 weeks after surgery. Group B was treated by arthroscopic lateral release only. Both groups were assessed by Kujala score and visual analogue scale for knee pain preoperatively and re-assessed postoperatively at 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months.ResultsThere was significant improvement in Kujala score and Visual analogue scale post-operatively in both groups (P-value<0.001) with better improvement in Kujala score in group A after intra-articular injection of Hyaluronic acid up to 2 year of follow up (P-value=0.006) as well as better improvement in visual analogue score at 6 months post-operatively (P-value=0.035)ConclusionIntra-articular injection of Hyaluronic acid after arthroscopic release, in patients with lateral patellar compression syndrome and degenerative cartilage changes, can result in better improvement of knee pain and functional outcome up to 2 years of follow up.Trial registration: NCT, NCT04134611. Registered 18 October 2019 -Retrospectively registered, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/NCT04134611
Genomic Profiling in ctDNA Revealing Complicated Resistance Mechanism of Olaparib and Abiraterone as Salvage Therapy in Prostate Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Yuan Fang , Liu Nan , Luo Hong , Zhang XiaoTian , Yang MingZhen , Zhou Hong
Published: July 2020

Background: PARP inhibitor, e.g. Olaparib, displayed superior clinical effect in metastatic castration prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients with deleterious mutations of DNA damage repair genes (DDR) as reported recently. Besides, for mCRPC patients without DDR alterations, a combination of Olaparib and abiraterone may achieve an acceptable clinical outcome as indicated by researches. However, these previous clinical studies involved patients strictly following inclusion criteria. In real-world situations, where the situation of patients is more complicated, the efficacy of salvage treatment of Olaparib with or without abiraterone-prednisone remains to be unclear. Case presentation: The present case displayed a 61-year-old man who was initially diagnosed with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer(mHSPC) and proceeding into mCRPC after several kinds of standard therapies. Surprisingly, the patient had a well TPSA response and remission of symptoms for four months by taking Olaparib combined with abiraterone-prednisone, basing on androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT). The resistance of Olaparib was occurred with slowly increasing serum TPSA level again.Conclusion: Resistance mechanism as discovered by comprehensive genomics profiling. The major concern was that two somatic reversion mutations occurred in PALB2 recovering its reading framer storing the function of the primary PALB2 mutation and caused the resistance to a PARP inhibitor.
Esophageal Leiomyoma and Simultaneous Overlying Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Mehrabi Saadat , Barhaghtalab Mohammad Javad Yavari , Hejazinia Safoora , Saedi Hossein
Published: July 2020

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common epithelial tumor of the esophagus. Upper endoscopy with multiple minimally invasive biopsies should be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Leiomyoma of esophagus is rare, but it’s the most common benign submucosal mesenchymal tumor of the esophagus. The simultaneous occurrence of an overlying epithelial lesion and a mesenchymal lesion is very rare. This study aims to show a case operated due to squamous cell carcinoma of esophagus that was postoperatively diagnosed with coexistent esophageal leiomyoma and provide a clear overview of the existing literature on it. Case presentation: The patient was a 41-year-old lady who underwent three field esophagectomy (McKeown). In reviewing the pathology slides, the patient had poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma and also multiple leiomyomas. A leiomyoma was coexisted with an invading overlying squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusion: It is concluded that esophageal carcinomas may coexist with leiomyomas; preexisting benign tumors may have played an important role in the development of carcinoma by inducing constant stimulation of the overlying mucosa; endoscopic ultrasonography is recommended to avoid overestimating the extent of tumor invasion and the resultant aggressive radical surgery; and esophageal resection is still the modality of choice in treatment in developing countries and also countries with limited equipment.
When Can Be Safely Performed Total Knee Arthroplasty Following Prior Arthroscopy?
Authors: Ma Jin-Ning , Li Xiao-Lin , Liang Pan , Yu Sheng-Li
Published: July 2020

Background
The optimal time to perform a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) after knee arthroscopy (KA) was controversial in the literature. We aimed to 1) explore the effect of prior KA on the subsequent TKA; 2) identify who were not suitable for TKA in patients with prior KA; and 3) determine the timing of TKA following prior KA.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 87 TKAs with prior KA and 174 controls using propensity score matching in our institution. The minimum followup was 2 years. Postoperative clinical outcomes were compared between groups. Kaplan-Meier curves were created with reoperation as an end point. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regressions were performed to identify risk factors of severe complications in the KA group. The two-piecewise linear regression analysis was performed to examine the optimal timing of TKA following prior KA.
Results
The all-cause reoperation, revision and complication rates of KA group were significantly higher than those of control group (p < 0.05). The survivorship of KA group and control group was 92.0% and 99.4% at the 2-year followup (p = 0.002), respectively. Male (Hazards ratio [HR] = 3.2) and prior KA for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury (HR = 4.4) were associated with postoperative complications in the KA group. There was a non-liner relationship between time from prior KA to TKA and postoperative complications with the turning point at 9.4 months.
Conclusion
Prior KA is associated with worse outcomes following subsequent TKA, especially male patients and those with prior KA for ACL injury. The optimal timing of TKA may be 9 months after prior KA. Surgeons should keep these findings in mind when treating patients who are scheduled to undergo TKA with prior KA.
Graphene Oxide Exacerbates Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis via ROS/AMPK/p53 Signaling to Mediate Apoptosis
Authors: Liu Siliang , Xu Angao , Xie Yue , Liu Zhipeng , Sun Meiling , Gao Yanfei , Mao Hua , Wang Xinying
Published: July 2020

Background: Graphene oxide (GO), a novel carbon-based nanomaterial, has immense utility in biomedicine. However, it exerts potential cytotoxic effects on the cells of the gastrointestinal tract (GI), although the underlying mechanisms remain largely uncharacterized. We investigated the potential toxic effect of GO in the intestinal tract under pre-existing inflammatory conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and elucidated these mechanisms.Results: Our findings indicated that oral gavage of GO worsened acute colitis induced by 2.5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in mice. In vitro, the uptake of GO resulted in decreased cell viability, as well as elevated release of lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). Moreover, IECs exposed to GO treatment triggered apoptosis through activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)/AMPK/p53 pathway, as evidenced by the upregulation of cytochrome c (Cytc), Bax, cleaved caspase-3, and the downregulation of Bcl-2. Interestingly, pretreatment with an antioxidant, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), and a specific inhibitor of AMPK activation, Compound C, effectively inhibited GO-induced apoptosis. Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that GO aggravated DSS-induced acute colitis in mice could involve GO-induced IEC apoptosis via activation of the ROS/AMPK/p53 pathway. These findings provide a new insight into the pathogenesis of IBD induced by environmental factors and enhance our understanding of GO as an environmental toxin. This study demonstrates the cytotoxic effect exerted by environmental toxins such as GO and its derivatives, and aids in informing risk of exposure to patients with disturbed intestinal epithelial barrier/inflammatory disorders such as IBD.
Near-Infrared intraoperative imaging with indocyanine green is feasible in segmentectomy for patients with chronic lung diseases: A retrospective single-center propensity-score matched analysis
Authors: Liu Zhengcheng , Yang Rusong , Cao Hui
Published: July 2020

Objective
To investigate whether video-assisted thoracoscopic segmentectomy using near-infrared fluorescence imaging had better intersegmental plane visualization and peri-operative outcome in patients with chronic lung diseases.
Methods
Data were collected retrospectively from March 2014 and August 2019. A total of 92 patients with pulmonary nodules underwent near-infrared fluorescence guided uni-port thoracoscopic segmentectomy(NIF-VATS), 149 patients underwent thoracoscopic segmentectomy with inflation-deflation method(ID-VATS). After 1:1 propensity matching, perioperative outcomes between NIF-VATS and ID-VATS was compared.
Results
Incision size was 3 cm in both group.Mean operative time was 79 minutes in NIF-VATS group and 96 minutes in ID-VATS group. The intersegmental plane was not clear in 33 cases of ID-VATS group, and no clear boundary was found after prolonged waiting time. Emphysema or pulmonary bullae could be found in chest CT scan in these patients, they all were diagnosed as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In NIF-VATS group, the intersegmental plane was not clear in 8 cases. Under the guidance of three-dimensional reconstruction and preoperative positioning, the oncological margin length of both groups met the requirements of surgical quality control. The intraoperative blood loss, number of lymph node resection, showed no statistical difference between the two groups. Postoperative air leakage was more often observed in ID-VATS group. The postoperative drainage duration, postoperative hospitalization time was shorter in ID-VATS group.
Conclusions
Compared with inflation-deflation method, segmentectomy using NIF imaging is feasible for patients with chronic lung diseases with better intersegmental plane, shorter operation time, less complications, it might lead to faster recovery.
The Expansion of the TRB and TRG Genes in Domestic Goats (Capra hircus) is Characteristic of the Ruminant Species
Authors: Giannico Francesco , Massari Serafina , Jambrenghi Anna Caputi , Soriano Adriano , Pala Angela , Linguiti Giovanna , Ciccarese Salvatrice , Antonacci Rachele
Published: July 2020

Background: Goats (Capra hircus), one of the first domesticated species, are economically important for milk and meat production, and their broad geographical distribution reflects their successful adaptation to diverse environmental conditions. Despite the relevance of this species, the genetic research on the goat traits is limited compared to other domestic species. Thanks to the latest goat reference genomic sequence (ARS1), which is considered to be one of the most continuous assemblies in livestock, we deduced the genomic structure of the T cell receptor beta (TRB) and gamma (TRG) loci in this ruminant species. Results: Our analyses revealed that although the organization of the goat TRB locus is broadly similar to that of the other artiodactyl species, with three in tandem D-J-C clusters located at the 3’ end, a complex and extensive series of duplications have occurred in the V genes at the 5’ end, leading to a marked expansion in the number of the TRBV genes. This phenomenon appears to be a feature of the ruminant lineage since similar gene expansions have also occurred in sheep and cattle.Likewise, the general organization of the goat TRG genes is typical of ruminant species studied so far, with two paralogous TRG loci, TRG1 and TRG2, located in two distinct and distant positions on the same chromosome as result of a split in the ancestral locus. Each TRG locus consists of reiterated V-J-J-C cassettes, with the goat TRG2 containing an additional cassette relative to the corresponding sheep and cattle loci.Conclusions: Taken together, these findings demonstrate that strong evolutionary pressures in the ruminant lineage have selected for the development of enlarged sets of TRB and TRG genes that contribute to a diverse T cell receptor repertoire. However, differences observed among the goat, sheep and cattle TRB and TRG genes indicate that distinct evolutionary histories, with independent expansions and/or contractions, have also affected each ruminant species.
Preoperative Surgical Risk Assessment by Evaluation of Tumor Blood Flow Using Perfusion Imaging by Computed Tomography in Transsphenoidal Surgery for Pituitary Adenoma
Authors: Hayashi Nakamasa , Mitsuya Koichi , Deguchi Shoichi , Urikura Atsushi , Endo Masahiro
Published: July 2020

Background: Complete removal of large and giant pituitary adenomas (PAs) with suprasellar extension by transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) is sometimes difficult. Swelling and bleeding of a residual suprasellar tumor after incomplete removal via TSS can compress the surrounding neurovascular structures, resulting in postoperative complications. We measured PA blood flow by perfusion computed tomography (PCT) and assessed its usefulness in the preoperative prediction of postoperative hemorrhagic complications after TSS.Method: We performed PCT in 28 patients with PAs with suprasellar extension before TSS. Perfusion studies were performed with a 320-row multidetector computed tomography system. We measured cerebral blood volume (CBV) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) of the tumor (CBVt and CBFt) and normal-appearing white matter (CBVw and CBFw).Results: In all patients, CBVt was greater than CBVw. There was a statistically significant difference between CBFt and CBFw (p < 0.0001). The patients were divided into 2 groups according to CBFt: high CBF (CBFt> mean value) and low CBF (CBFt< mean value). There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of gender, age, maximum tumor diameter, suprasellar extension grade, and extent of resection. Two of the 7 patients in the high CBF group suffered from visual acuity deterioration and visual field stenosis due to postoperative hemorrhage, while no patients in the low CBF group did (p = 0.014).Conclusions: PCT may be useful in the preoperative prediction of postoperative residual tumor hemorrhage, which can be a hazardous postoperative complication after TSS for large and giant PAs.
Prevalence of Temporomandibular Disorder in children and adolescents with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis – a Norwegian cross sectional multicenter study
Authors: Fischer Johannes , Skeie Marit Slåttelid , Rosendahl Karen , Tylleskär Karin , Lie Stein Atle , Shi Xieqi , Gil Elisabeth Grut , Cetrelli Lena , Halbig Josefine , Marti Larissa von Wangenheim , Rygg Marite , Frid Paula , Stoustrup Peter , Rosén Annika
Published: July 2020

Background. Children and adolescents with JIA may suffer pain from temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and routines for the assessment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain for the health and dental care are lacking. The aims were to examine the prevalence of TMD in children and adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) as compared to their healthy peers and to examine potential associations between JIA and TMD.Methods. This comparative cross-sectional study is part of a longitudinal multicenter study performed during 2015 - 2020, including 228 children and adolescents aged 4-16 years, with a diagnosis of JIA according to the ILAR criteria. This sub-study draws on a subset of data from the first study visit, including assessments of TMD as part of a broader oral health examination. Participants with JIA were matched with healthy controls according to gender, age, and center site. Calibrated examiners performed the clinical oral examinations according to a standardized protocol, including shortened versions of diagnostic criteria for TMD (DC/TMD) and the former EuroTMJoint Recommendations for Clinical TMJ Assessment in Patients Diagnosed with JIA. Symptoms were recorded and followed by a clinical examination assessing the masticatory muscles and TMJ`s.Results. In our cohort of 221 participants with JIA and corresponding controls, 88 participants with JIA (39.8%) and 25 (11.3%) controls revealed TMD based on symptoms and clinical signs. Painful TMD during the last 30 days was reported in 59 (26.7%) participants with JIA vs. 10 (5.0%) of the healthy controls (p<0.001). Vertical unassisted jaw movement was lower in JIA than in controls; mean 46.2 mm vs. 49.0 mm, respectively (p <0.001). Among participants with JIA, a higher proportion of those using synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic-drugs (sDMARDs) and biologic (bDMARDs) presented with painful masticatory muscle and TMJs at palpation.Conclusion. Symptoms or clinical signs of TMD were seen in approximately half of the JIA patients compared to about one fourth of their healthy peers. Painful palpation to masticatory muscles and decreased vertical unassisted jaw movement were more frequent in participants with JIA than among healthy controls and should be part of both medical and dental routine examinations in JIA.
Preconceptional and Prenatal Exposure to Diurnal Temperature Variation Increase the Risk of Childhood Pneumonia
Authors: Zheng Xiangrong , Kuang Jian , Lu Chan , Wu Haiyu , Murithi Rachael Gakii , Johnson McSherry Brownel , Peng Wang , Wu Maolan
Published: July 2020

Background: Pneumonia is the leading cause of death and hospitalization among young children worldwide, but its risk factors are not clear. Objective: To examine the effect of maternal exposure to diurnal temperature variation (DTV) during preconceptional and prenatal periods on childhood pneumonia.Methods: A retrospective case-control study was conducted for pneumonia (N=699) and normal (N=811) children under age of 14 who were enrolled in the Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China. Demographic data (gender, age, birth season, gestational weeks, parity, mode of delivery, and parental atopy) were collected from the hospital's electronic medical records system. We calculated the individual DTV exposure during different time windows. The relationship between maternal exposure to outdoor DTV and pneumonia in children was analyzed by logic regression models.Results: Pneumonia in children was linked to outdoor DTV exposure during one year before conception (adjusted OR=2.53, 95% CI:1.56-4.10), during entire pregnancy (adjusted OR =1.85, 95% CI:1.24-2.76), and the first and second trimesters, with statistical significance. Sensitivity analysis showed that boys exposure to outdoor DTV during prenatal period were at higher pneumonia risk than girls.Conclusions: Preconceptional and prenatal exposure to DTV plays an important role in the development of childhood pneumonia, the first and second trimesters were the key exposure timing-windows.
Convalescent Plasma as a Treatment for Severe Patients with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Case Report
Authors: Yong Chaoying , Deng Xinyu , Song Yuyan , Tian Wenguang , Qi Di , Wang Daoxin
Published: July 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a global pandemic, affecting the lives of millions of people around the world.Although research including hydroxychloroquine, antiviral drugs and vaccines is under way, there is still no effective therapy applied for COVID-19.Case presentation: Here, we reported five cases of severe COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure treatment with supportable care and ABO-compatible convalescent plasma (CP).All the patients’ clinical conditions, laboratory results, viral nucleic acid results, and chest CT images, were improved. Meanwhile, all the patients recovered and no severe adverse reactions were found. We also followed up the antibody levels of some patients within 2 months after onset, but our study did not show the inherent relationship between CP treatment and changes in antibody levels due to small samples.Conclusions: Although short of evidence of randomized controlled trials, convalescent plasma therapy probably was a potentially safe and effective treatment for COVID-19.
Enhancing Hydrolysis and Syntropy Simultaneously in Solid State Anaerobic Digestion: A GRA – Taguchi Based Study and Techno-Economic Assessment for Austainable Bioeconomy
Authors: Paritosh Kunwar , Mathur Sanjay , Pareek Nidhi , Vivekanand Vivekanand
Published: July 2020

Background: Solid-state anaerobic digestion of agricultural stubble is attractive technology for energy and bioeconomy as well as it may lead to transitioning towards greenhouse gas neutrality; yet hydrolysis and syntropy affects the process and makes it economically nonviable. In this regard, present study investigates the effect of alkali and biochar addition for simultaneous increment of hydrolysis and syntropy for higher methane yield from pearl millet straw. Further, taguchi based design of experiment was coupled with grey relation analysis for multiple output evaluation and detailed techno-economic assessment was performed. Results: Study showed that 0.5 g/100g pearl millet straw of alkali and 10 g/L of biochar was the optimised dosing along with 20% total solid concentration and 4 as feedstock/inoculum ratio. Statistically, contribution of biochar and alkali was 48 and 21% respectively on the multiple output. The confirmation test revealed that hydrolysis rate constant, k for reactor having optimised conditions was 0.0521 d-1 while for control, it was 0.0595 d-1. Cumulative methane yield was also increased by 1.8-fold for optimised condition. Techno-economic assessment showed that capital cost and electrical efficiency of combined heat and power unit have dominant effect on the investment. Solid state anaerobic digestion of pearl millet straw with alkali and biochar showed US$ 25652 of net present value and showed to have payback time of 8.2 years with 11% of internal rate of return.Conclusion: The simultaneous increment of hydrolysis rate and syntrophic activity in optimized condition helped to achieve higher methane yield. Techno-economic assessment showed that shorter payback time and higher internal rate of return, making large scale project profitable and viable which may endorse sustainable bioeconomy with lower greenhouse gases.
Echinococcus Multilocularis and other Cestodes in Red Foxes (Vulpes Vulpes) of Northeast Italy, 2012-2018
Authors: CITTERIO CARLO , OBBER FEDERICA , Trevisiol Karin , DELLAMARIA DEBORA , CELVA ROBERTO , BREGOLI MARCO , ORMELLI SILVIA , SGUBIN SOFIA , BONATO PAOLA , ROLD GRAZIANA DA , DANESI PATRIZIA , RAVAGNAN SILVIA , VENDRAMI STEFANO , RIGHETTI DAVIDE , AGREITER ANDREAS , ASSON DANIELE , CADAMURO ANDREA , IANNIELLO MARCO , CAPELLI GIOIA
Published: July 2020

Background
Echinococcus multilocularis is a small tapeworm affecting wild and domestic carnivores and voles in a typical prey-predator life cycle. In Italy, a focus of E. multilocularis has been in existence since 1997 in the northern Italian Alps, later confirmed in foxes collected from 2001 to 2005. In this study, we report the results of seven years of monitoring on E. multilocularis and other cestodes and describe the changes occurred over time and among areas showing different environmental and ecological features (eco-regions).
Methods
Eggs of cestodes were isolated from faeces of 2,872 foxes with a sedimentation/filtration technique. The cestode species was determined through multiplex PCR, targeting and sequencing ND1 and 12S genes.
Results
Overall, 217 (7.55%) samples resulted positive for cestode eggs at coproscopy, with differences of prevalence according to year and sampling area. Eight species of cestodes were identified, with Taenia crassiceps (2.6%), Taenia polyacantha (2%) and E. multilocularis (1%) as the species most represented. The other species, Mesocestoides litteratus, Taenia krabbei, T. serialis, T. taeniaeformis and Dipylidium caninum, accounted for less than 1% altogether. Echinococcus multilocularis was identified in foxes from two out of six eco-regions, in 30 faecal samples, accounting for 1.4% within the cestode positives at coproscopy. All E. multilocularis isolates came from Bolzano province. Prevalence of cestodes, both collectively and for each of the three most represented species (T. crassiceps, T. polyacantha and E. multilocularis) varied based on the sampling year, and for E. multilocularis an apparent increasing trend across the last few years was evidenced.
Conclusions
Our study confirms the presence of a low prevalence focus of E. multilocularis in red foxes of northeast Italy. Although this focus seems still spatially limited, given its persistence and apparent increasing prevalence through the years, we recommend that future work deepen the ecological factors allowing persistence of this zoonotic species at a smaller scale. On the same scale, we recommend an informative campaign on how to behave to avoid contamination, targeted at people living in the area, especially hunters, dog owners, forestry workers and other categories at risk.
Alfalfa saponins plays protective roles in oxidative stress-induced apoptotic cells
Authors: Cui Yalei , Liu Boshuai , Sun Xiao , Li Zidan , Chen Yanyan , Guo Zhiguo , Liu Hua , Li Defeng , Wang Chengzhang , Zhu Xiaoyan , Shi Yinghua
Published: July 2020

Background:
As is known, alfalfa saponin can be used as a feed additive in the pig’s diet. And the addition of alfalfa saponin to the pig’s diet could improve animal antioxidant capacity. However, the mechanism by which alfalfa saponins exerts their antioxidant effects has not been studied. To address this issue, H2O2-induced rat intestinal epithelial cell was used to explore the protective mechanism of alfalfa saponins in this study.
Results:
Alfalfa saponin could rescue the cell proliferation activity, elevate the amount of antioxidant enzymes and downregulate the release of MDA and LDH in H2O2-induced cells. The results indicated that the antioxidant activity of alfalfa saponin was achieved by restoring GSH homeostasis. Further results demonstrated that alfalfa saponin could inhibit cell apoptosis through activating MAPK signaling pathway.
Conclusions:
The mechanism by which alfalfa saponins exerts their antioxidant effects was elucidated. Therefore, alfalfa saponin could function as cellular oxidative damage inhibitor, green feed additive or potential drug candidate, providing new strategy for inhibiting cell apoptosis induced by oxidative stress in monogastric animals.
Lavandula Angustifolia Essential Oil Loaded in Liposomal Nano-Carriers Regulate the HER2 and CASP3 Genes in MCF-7 and SK-BR-3 Cell-Lines
Authors: Mohammadpanah Monireh , Mojodi Elham , Haghiralsadat Fatemeh , Sabbagh Seyed Kazem , Rajabi Mahya
Published: July 2020

Cancer drug delivery has recently focused on using novel carrier systems due to their high drug-loading capacity, release rate properties, and minimum side effects. Finding novel chemotherapeutic agents would be essential for the improvement of integrated treatment planning. In this study, the effect of constructed nano-liposomal particles of Lavandula angustifolia essential oil (LAEO) was evaluated on cell toxicity and the expression of HER-2 and Caspase-3 genes in two MCF-7 and SK-BR-3 cell lines. Our results showed a high entrapment efficiency (50 ± 3.34), and a low average size (68.3 ± 7.28 nm) of nano-liposomes under suitable conditions. The surface charge of particles was at a range of -2 to -4.5 mV. The release rate of nanoparticles was estimated to be 63.98% (37 °C; pH = 7) and 87.63% (42 °C; pH = 5) in MCF-7 and SK-BR-3 cell lines after 48 hours, respectively. The stability of nanoparticles without a great increase in particle sizes and spherical shape was observed using force atomic microscopy. The degree of cell growth in response to nanoliposomal LAEO was significantly decreased in comparison with free essential oil (p-value < 0.01) when assayed on both cell lines. The analysis of gene expression showed that the treatment of cancer cell lines with nanoliposomal LAEO significantly elevated the relative expression of the caspase-3 gene while reducing the expression of HER-2 (P < 0.05). Based on the obtained results, it seems that LAEO in the form of nanoparticles could have more efficiency on the growth inhibition of cancer cell lines in comparison with the free form of the essential oil. Further studies are required to assess the in vivo effects of LAEO nanoliposomes with refined formulations against various types of cancer (Fig. 1).