bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mode of Bacterial Killing Affects the Inflammatory Response and Associated Organ Dysfunctions in a Porcine E. coli Intensive Care Sepsis Model 
Authors: Skorup Paul , Maudsdotter Lisa , Lipcsey Miklós , Larsson Anders , Sjölin Jan
Published: August 2020

Background: Sepsis is often treated with penicillin-binding protein 3 (PBP-3) acting b-lactam antibiotics, such as piperacillin-tazobactam, cefotaxime and meropenem. They cause considerable bacterial structural changes and have in vitro been associated with an increased inflammatory response. In a clinically relevant large animal sepsis model our primary aim was to investigate whether bacteria killed by a PBP-3-active antibiotic has a greater effect on the early inflammatory response and organ dysfunction compared with corresponding amounts of live or heat-killed bacteria. A secondary aim was to determine whether the addition of an aminoglycoside could mitigate the cefuroxime-induced response.Method: Killed or live Escherichia coli were administrated as a 3-hour (h) infusion to 16 healthy pigs in a prospective, randomized controlled interventional experimental study. Cefuroxime was chosen as the PBP-3-active antibiotic and tobramycin represented the aminoglycosides. The animals were randomized to receive I) bacteria killed by cefuroxime, II) live bacteria, III) bacteria killed by heat or IV) bacteria killed by the combination of cefuroxime and tobramycin. Plasma endotoxin, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, leukocytes and organ function were recorded at the start of the experiment and then hourly for 6 h. Results: Differences in dynamics of concentration over time between the four treatment groups were found for the three cytokines (p<0.001). Animals receiving cefuroxime-killed bacteria demonstrated higher responses than those receiving live (p<0.05) or heat-killed bacteria (p<0.01). The addition of tobramycin reduced the cefuroxime-induced responses (p<0.001). The cytokine responses were associated with leucocyte activation that was further associated with pulmonary dysfunction and increases in lactate (p<0.01).Conclusions: In comparison with live or heat-killed bacteria, bacteria killed by a PBP-3-active antibiotic induced an increased inflammatory response that appears to be associated with deteriorated organ and cellular function. The addition of an aminoglycoside to the PBP-3-active antibiotic reduced that response.
Performance of Mattis dementia rating scale-Chinese Version in patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Qian Shuxia , Chen Keliang , Guan Qiaobing , Guo Qihao
Published: August 2020

Background: To identify the applicability of the Chinese Version of Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (DRS-CV).Methods: The DRS-CV was administered to 483 participants, including 136 normal controls, 167 patients with mild cognition impairment (MCI), and 180 patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the scale.Results: The scores of DRS-CV were ranked in the order of NC >MCI > mild AD > moderate AD group. Memory was the sensitive function affected at a relatively earlier stage of AD. ROC curve analysis indicated the DRS-CV total score and memory subscale showed excellent sensitivity and specificity in the discrimination between MCI from mild AD and mild AD from moderate AD, but poor sensitivity and specificity in the discrimination between MCI and NC.Conclusion: The DRS-CV is useful to the early diagnosis and severity of AD, not to the early identification of MCI.
Platelet adhesion and aggregate formation controlled by immobilised and soluble VWF
Authors: Schneider Matthias F. , Fallah Mohammad A. , Mess Christian , Obser Tobias , Schneppenheim Reinhard , Alexander-Katz Alfredo , Schneider Stefan W. , Huck Volker
Published: August 2020

BackgroundIt has been demonstrated that von Willebrand factor (VWF) mediated platelet-endothelium and platelet-platelet interactions are shear dependent. The VWF's mobility under dynamic conditions (e.g. flow) is pivotal to platelet adhesion and VWF-mediated aggregate formation in the cascade of VWF-platelet interactions in haemostasis.ResultsCombining microfluidic tools with fluorescence and reflection interference contrast microscopy (RICM), here we show, that specific deletions in the A-domains of the biopolymer VWF affect both, adhesion and aggregation properties independently. Intuitively, the deletion of the A1-domain led to a significant decrease in both adhesion and aggregate formation of platelets. Nevertheless, the deletion of the A2-domain revealed a completely different picture, with a significant increase in formation of rolling aggregates (gain of function). We predict that the A2-domain effectively ‘masks’ the potential between the platelet glycoprotein (GP) Ib and the VWF A1-domain. Furthermore, the deletion of the A3-domain led to no significant variation in either of the two functional characteristics.ConclusionsThese data demonstrate that the macroscopic functional properties i.e. adhesion and aggregate formation cannot simply be assigned to the properties of one particular domain, but have to be explained by cooperative phenomena. The absence or presence of molecular entities likewise affects the properties (thermodynamic phenomenology) of its neighbours, therefore altering the macromolecular function.
The relationship between the level of μ -opioid receptor (μORs) and postoperative analgesic use in patients undergoing septoplasty: A prospective randomized controlled trial.
Authors: GENCER MUZAFFER , Göçmen Ayşe Yeşim
Published: August 2020

Background : In this study, the μ-Opioid receptor activity was assessed pre-operatively for its association with postoperative pain level and second analgesic requirement in patients undergoing septoplasty. Methods : In our prospective study,120 adult patients underwent septoplasty from June 2015 to January 2019 were randomly divided into 2 pre-operative groups. The first group (n=60) was patients given tramadol (1-2 mg/kg) for post-operative analgesia, and the second group (control group)(n=60) was initially prescribed only fentanyl (1 µg/ kg-i.v.) in the induction. Acetaminophen with codeine analgesic 325/30 mg (p.o.) was used as an rescue painkiller in the post-operative period. The μ-Opioid receptor activity was investigated in pre-operative blood samples and compared to post-operative pain level and time required for second round of analgesic administration. The visual analogue score (VAS) was used to evaluate the post-operative pain degree (0 no pain; 10 worst pain). The patients’ post-operative VAS scores were evaluated upon arrival to recovery room, and at the 1st, 3rd, 7th, 10th, and 24 th hour post-operative period. Results: Demographic data and peri-operative variables were similar in both study group (p<0.05).There was no significant difference between the receptor levels in both groups and the mean receptor level was 200.94±15.34 pg/mL (max:489.92±22.36 pg/mL, min:94.56±11.23 pg/mL).In patients who used tramadol as the levels of μ-Opioid receptors increased, VAS scores of patients and second analgesic use decreased in post-operative period.The VAS scores in patients with higher receptor levels were lower in the recovery room (p<0.05), 1st (p<0.05) and 3rd hours (p<0.05).The VAS scores were lower in the tramadol group compared to the control group (p<0.05).Number of secondary analgesic requirement was significantly lower in patients of the tramadol group with higher receptor levels compared to the ones with lower receptor (p<0.05) for arrival at the recovery room and 1 st hour.Patients in the tramadol group needed a second pain killer much later than patients in the control group.Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that patients with higher μOR levels have a higher efficacy of opioid analgesic agents and an lesser need for additional analgesic agents. Trial registration: This trial was registered retrospectively (The ACTRN: ACTRN12619001652167, registration date:26/11/2019).
Complications to 6 months following total hip or knee arthroplasty: Observations from an Australian clinical outcomes registry
Authors: Heo Sung Mu , Harris Ian , Naylor Justine , Lewin Adriane
Published: August 2020

Background: Total hip and total knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA) are increasing in incidence annually. While these procedures are effective in improving pain and function, there is a risk of complications. Methods: Using data from an arthroplasty registry, we described complication rates including reasons for reoperation and readmission from the acute period to six months following THA and TKA in an Australian context. Data collection at 6 months was conducted via telephone interview, and included patient-reported complications such as joint stiffness, swelling and paraesthesia. We used logistic regression to identify risk factors for complications. Results: In the 8,444 procedures included for analysis, major complications were reported by 9.5% and 14.4% of THA and TKA patients, respectively, whilst minor complications were reported by 34.0% and 46.6% of THA and TKA patients, respectively. Overall complications rates were 39.7% and 53.6% for THA and TKA patients, respectively. In THA patients, factors associated with increased risk for complications included increased BMI, previous THA and bilateral surgery, whereas in TKA patient factors were heart disease, neurological disease, and pre-operative back pain and arthritis in a separate joint. Female gender and previous TKA were identified as protective factors for minor complications in TKA patients.Conclusion: We found moderate rates of major and high rates of minor postoperative complications following THA and TKA in Australia and have identified several patient factors associated with these complications. Efforts should be focused on identifying patients with higher risk and optimising pre- and post-operative care to reduce the rates of these complications.
Health variations among breast-cancer patients from different disease states: Evidence from China
Authors: Yang Qing , Yu Xuexin , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2020

Background

To obtain health utility data for different disease status of breast cancer in China in order to obtain important parameters in health economics modeling. To explore the feasibility of establishing a breast cancer health utility mapping model in China.

Methods

Multivariate regression models, including linear regression model, ordinal logistic regression model and Tobit model, were employed to analyz. Subgroup analyses were performed to analyze variations in sub-dimensional health attributes derived from FACT-B and EQ-5D-5L. A mapping function was used to estimate health utility from quality of life.

Results

446 breast cancer patients with different disease states were analyzed. The utility of breast cancer patients with P state(without cancer recurrence and metastasis), R state(with cancer recurrence within a year), S state(with primary and recurrent breast cancer for the second year and above) and M state(metastasis cancer) were 0.81 (SD ±0.23), 0.90 (SD ±0.12), 0.78 (SD ±0.31), and 0.74 (SD ±0.27), respectively. All scores, including the FACT-B domain, showed a positive correlation( p <0.001). Multivariate analysis suggested that patients in R and M state had lower scores in overall quality of life (R,β = -9.45, p < 0.01; M, β = -6.72, P <0.05). Patients in M state had a lower probability of achieving higher health utility compared with patients in P state (β = -0.11, p < 0.05). Estimated health utilities derived from quality of life, using mapping function, were significantly correlated with directly measured health utilities ( p <0.001).

Conclusions

We obtained the health utility and HRQoL scores of Chinese breast cancer patients with different disease states. Mapping health utilities from quality of life in four disease states could be a plausible approach in health economic analysis, while the mapping function may need further revise.
Metagenomic insights into the diversity of carbohydrate-degrading enzymes in the yak fecal microbial community
Authors: Gong Ga , Zhou Saisai , Luo Runbo , Gesang Zhuoma , Suolang Sizhu
Published: August 2020

Background: Yaks are able to utilize the gastrointestinal microbiota to digest plant materials. Although the cellulolytic bacteria in the yak rumen have been reported, there is still limited information on the diversity of the major microorganisms and putative carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes for the degradation of complex lignocellulosic biomass in its gut ecosystem. Results: Here, this study aimed to decode biomass-degrading genes and genomes in the yak fecal microbiota using deep metagenome sequencing. A comprehensive catalog comprising 4.5 million microbial genes from the yak feces were established based on metagenomic assemblies from 92 Gb sequencing data. We identified a full spectrum of genes encoding carbohydrate-active enzymes, three-quarters of which were assigned to highly diversified enzyme families involved in the breakdown of complex dietary carbohydrates, including 120 families of glycoside hydrolases, 25 families of polysaccharide lyases, and 15 families of carbohydrate esterases. Inference of taxonomic assignments to the carbohydrate-degrading genes revealed the major microbial contributors were Bacteroidaceae, Ruminococcaceae, Rikenellaceae, Clostridiaceae, and Prevotellaceae. Furthermore, 68 prokaryotic genomes were reconstructed and the genes encoding glycoside hydrolases involved in plant-derived polysaccharide degradation were identified in these uncultured genomes, many of which were novel species with lignocellulolytic capability. Conclusions: Our findings shed light on a great diversity of carbohydrate-degrading enzymes in the yak gut microbial community and uncultured species, which provides a useful genetic resource for future studies on the discovery of novel enzymes for industrial applications.
The rs28757157 and rs59429575 polymorphisms in CYP19A1 are associated with lung cancer in Chinese Han population
Authors: Zhang Chan , Cheng Yujing , Chen Wanlu , Li Qi , Dai Run , Wang Yajie , Yang Tonghua
Published: August 2020

Background: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death globally. Recent studies have revealed that the CYP19A1 gene played a crucial role in cancer initiation and development. The aim of this study was to assess the association of CYP19A1 genetic polymorphisms with the risk of lung cancer in the Chinese Han population. Method: This study randomly recruited 507 lung cancer patients and 505 healthy controls. The genotypes of four SNPs of CYP19A1 gene were identified by Agena MassARRY technique. Genetic model analysis was used to assess the association between genetic variation and lung cancer risk. Odds ratio (OR) values and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were provided for the evaluation of the lung cancer risk effect. Results: Rs28757157 and rs59429575 polymorphisms of CYP19A1 were significantly correlated with the risk of lung cancer. In stratified analysis, rs28757157 was associated with increased cancer risk in smokers and individuals aged ≤ 60 years. Meanwhile, rs59429575 was identified as a risk biomarker in females and lung adenocarcinoma patients (p < 0.05). While rs28757157 exerted a protective role among people with a BMI greater than 24 (p = 0.033). Conclusions: This study identified two new SNPs (rs28757157 and rs59429575) of CYP19A1 associated with lung cancer in Chinese Han population. These findings provide data support for further functional studies of CYP19A1 in lung cancer.
A systematic review of patient prioritization tools in non-emergency healthcare services
Authors: Dery Julien , Ruiz Angel , Routhier François , Bélanger Valérie , Côté André , Ait-Kadi Daoud , Gagnon Marie-Pierre , Deslauriers Simon , Pecora Ana Tereza Lopes , Redondo Eduardo , Allaire Anne-Sophie , Lamontagne Marie-Eve
Published: August 2020

Background. Patient prioritization is a strategy used to manage access to healthcare services. Patient prioritization tools (PPT) contribute to supporting the prioritization decision process, and to its transparency and fairness. Patient prioritization tools can take various forms and are highly dependent on the particular context of application. Consequently, the sets of criteria change from one context to another, especially when used in non-emergency settings. This paper systematically synthesizes and analyzes the published evidence concerning the development and challenges related to the validation and implementation of PPTs in non-emergency settings.Methods. We conducted a systematic mixed studies review. We searched evidence in five databases to select articles based on eligibility criteria, and information of included articles was extracted using an extraction grid. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed by using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The article selection process, data extraction, and quality appraisal were performed by at least two reviewers independently.Results. We included 48 studies listing 34 different patient prioritization tools. Most of them are designed for managing access to elective surgeries in hospital settings. Two thirds of the tools were investigated based on reliability or validity. Inconclusive results were found regarding the impact of PPTs on patient waiting times. Advantages associated with PPT use were found mostly in relationship to acceptability of the tools by clinicians and increased transparency and equity for patients.Conclusions. This review describes the development and validation processes of PPTs used in non-urgent healthcare settings. Despite the large number of PPTs studied, implementation into clinical practice seems to be an open challenge. Based on the findings of this review, recommendations are proposed to develop, validate, and implement such tools in clinical settings.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42018107205
Relevant factors for early liver transplantation after Kasai portoenterostomy
Authors: Ge Liang , Zhan Jianghua , Gao Wei , Zhao Shengqiao , Xu Xiaodan , Dou Ran
Published: August 2020

Background：To explore the relevant factors for early liver transplantation (LT) after Kasai portoenterostomy (KP).Methods：Retrospective analysis was performed for 200 children with biliary atresia, who underwent LT with hepatic failure after KP. According to the interval between KP and LT, they were divided into three groups: G1 (≤6-month), G2 (6-month~2-year) and G3 (>2-year). Gender, age of Kasai portoenterostomy, jaundice-clearance, cholangitis after KP and liver function indexes before LT were compared among the three groups.Results：The proportion of patients with age of KP (≤90-day) in G1 was lower than that in G3 (P=0.003). Jaundice-clearance occurred in 6 (7.6%), 26(28.6%) and 26 (86.7%) patients after KP in G1, G2 and G3 respectively (P<0.001). There were statistical differences in the incidence of early cholangitis, late cholangitis and repeated cholangitis among the three groups (P=0.035, <0.001 and 0.022). The native liver survival (NLS) rate of children at operation age >90-day was lower than that of children at operation age ≤90-day (P=0.002). The NLS rate of the children with jaundice-clearance after KP was significantly better than that of the children without jaundice-clearance (P<0.001). The NLS rate of the children with early cholangitis after operation was lower than that in children without early cholangitis (P=0.026). The NLS rate of patients of G2 and G3 with cholangitis after KP was lower than that in children without cholangitis (P=0.017). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed uncleared jaundice after KP was a risk factor for the NLS survival time in patients.Conclusion：The age of KP (>90-day), jaundice-unclear and early cholangitis could reduce the NLS time after KP, which were related to early liver transplantation. Jaundice-unclear was a risk factor for early liver transplantation.
Interactive effects of asparagine and aspartate homeostasis with sex and age for the risk of type 2 diabetes risk
Authors: Luo Hui-Huan , Feng Xiao-Fei , Yang Xi-Lin , Hou Rui-Qin , fang zhongze
Published: August 2020

Background Asparagine and aspartate homeostasis link with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This study aimed to explore whether asparagine and aspartate metabolism interacted with sex and age to increase the risk of T2D.Methods From 27 May 2015 to 3 August 2016, we consecutively retrieved 1032 T2D patients and 1522 subjects without T2D from a tertiary care hospital in Liaoning, China. Restricted cubic spline nested in the logistic regression was used to draw odds ratio curves of plasma asparagine to aspartate ratio for T2D by sex and age. Cutoff point was select where curves went apart, indicating possible interaction. Addictive interactions of asparagine to aspartate ratio with sex or age and secondary interaction with copresence of unfavorable sex and age were further estimated using relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (S). Results Ratio of asparagine to aspartate >1.5 was associated with elevated risk of T2D (OR: 7.99, 95%CI: 5.50 to 11.6), which was enhanced by female gender to 13.6, (95%CI: 8.10-22.9) and by >50 years of age to 28.7 (14.6-56.3), with significant additive interactions. There was a significant secondary-interaction of copresence of female sex and > 50 years of age with high asparagine to aspartate ratio for increased T2D risk with the OR being further increased to 34.4 (20.5 - 57.5). Conclusions High asparagine to aspartate ratio was associated with markedly increased risk of T2D, which was further amplified by either female gender or >50 years of age, and especially both.
Relationship Between the Face Scale for Rating of Perceived Exertion and Physiological Parameters in Older Adults and Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Nashimoto Satoshi , Morishita Shinichiro , Hotta Kazuki , Iida Susumu , Tsubaki Atsuhiro
Published: August 2020

Background: The Borg scale is used to determine exercise intensity in rehabilitation but can be difficult for older adults to understand. By contrast, face scale that are used to evaluate pain are much easier to understand thanks to the inclusion of illustrations. On the other hand, the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) increases with age. We aimed to investigate the correlation between face scale for rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and various physiological parameters during cardiopulmonary exercise testing in older adults and AF patients. We also investigated the relationship between Face Scale and anaerobic threshold (AT).Methods: Patients were asked to perform a ramp cardiopulmonary exercise test with an incremental increase in work rate (WR) of 10 watts/min, using a stationary bicycle until maximum fatigue. We recorded participant responses using a face scale for RPE compared with WR, heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake (VO₂), and minute ventilation (VE) every minute during the exercise test. We determined the AT by the V-slope method.Results: We enrolled 90 sinus rhythm (SR) patients (74 men 16 women) and 22 AF patients. For SR men, SR women and AF, there were significant positive correlations between the face scale RPE and HR, VO₂, WR, and VE. There was no statistically significant differences difference in correlation coefficient between age and SR or AF. The cutoff value for AT of the Face Scale was “4” and it showed high sensitivity and specificity.Conclusions: These results suggest that the face scale can be used to determine the intensity of physical exercise equivalent to AT unaffected by age, gender, SR or AF.
The effect of royal jelly and tocotrienol-rich fraction along with calorie restriction on hypothalamic endoplasmic reticulum stress and adipose tissue inflammation in diet-induced obese rats
Authors: Irandoost Pardis , Alamdari Naimeh Mesri , Saidpour Atoosa , Shidfar Farzad , Farsi Farnaz , Jafarabadi Mohammad Asghari , Alivand MohammadReza , Vafa Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2020

Objectives: Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress causes adipose tissue dysfunction and chronic inflammation in obesity. Royal jelly (RJ) and tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) are reported to ameliorate inflammation. However, the improving effects of RJ and TRF on inflammation from ER stress modulating view have not been assessed so far. Hence, we investigated the effect of RJ and TRF on ER stress and some adipose tissue-derived inflammatory markers in the high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity. Wistar obese rats randomly allocated into 5 groups: HFD, calorie restriction diet (CRD), RJ+CRD, TRF+CRD, RJ+TRF+CRD. After 8-week intervention, adipose tissues and hypothalamus were dissected and serum was collected. Results: RJ reduced glucose-regulated protein-78 (GRP78) expression as ER stress indicator in WAT and hypothalamus compared to CRD. Besides, RJ diminished the expression of inflammatory markers in white adipose tissue (WAT) and also decreased the serum concentration of them. TRF reduced inflammatory markers in the serum without remarkable effects on ER stress. Overall, RJ has protective effect against adipose tissue dysfunction and inflammation then suggested as a therapeutic approach to reduce some obesity-related complications. The impact of TRF in this regard is lower than RJ and limited to systemic inflammation improvement without remarkable changes in adipose tissue inflammation.
Intravesical dexmedetomidine instillation reduces postoperative catheter-related bladder discomfort in male patients under general anesthesia: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Chen Hong , Wang Bin , Li Qin , Zhou Juan , Li Rui , Zhang Ye
Published: August 2020

Background: The catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) of male patients is a common clinical problem, albeit lacking effective solutions. The present study aimed to investigate whether intravesical dexmedetomidine instillation alleviates the postoperative urinary discomfort in male patients with catheter under general anesthesia. Methods: This single-blinded, prospective, randomized study included a total of 167 male patients American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-II scheduled for surgery under general anesthesia were allocated to two groups: 84 in the dexmedetomidine group and 83 in the control group. Dexmedetomidine group patients received intravesical instillation of the drug 0.5 μg/kg and normal saline 20 mL, while the control group received intravesical instillation of 20 mL normal saline. The catheter was clamped for 30 min after intravesical instillation for all patients. Bladder stimulation scales and urethra pain numerical rating scale (NRS) scores were measured at admittance to post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) (T0), intravesical instillation (T1), 30 min (T2), 60 min (T3), 2 h (T4) after intravesical instillation, discharged from PACU (T5), and 6 h (T6) and 24 h (T7) after the operation. Patient satisfaction at discharge from PACU and 24 h post-operation were compared between the two groups. Results: Bladder stimulation scales and urethra pain NRS scores after 30 min of intravesical dexmedetomidine instillation to 24 h post-operation were significantly lower than the control group (p<0.001), and patient satisfaction was higher at discharge from PACU and 24 h post-operation (p<0.001). No diﬀerences were detected in Steward score out of PACU (p=0.213) and from the time of the end of operation to fully awake (p=0.417). Conclusion: Intravesical dexmedetomidine instillation reduces postoperative urinary discomfort and urethra pain and improves satisfaction in male patients under general anesthesia.
Pre-inhalation of Hydrogen-rich Gases Protect Against Caerulein-induced Mouse Acute Pancreatitis While Enhance the Pancreatic Hsp60 Protein Expression
Authors: Li Kun , Yin Hongling , Duan Yi , Lai Peizhen , Cai Yanchen , Wei Youzhen
Published: August 2020

Background: Acute pancreatitis (AP) lacks targeted prevention and treatment measures. Some key points in the pathogenesis of AP remain unclear, such as early activation of pancreatic enzymes. Several recent reports have shown the protective effect of hydrogen on several AP animal models, and the mechanism is related to antioxidant activity. Heat shock protein 60 (Hsp60) is known to accompany pancreatic enzymes synthesis and secretion pathway of in pancreatic acinar cells, while role of hsp60 in AP remains a topic. The aim of this study was to investigate effect of hydrogen pretreatment on experimental AP mice, as well as the possible mechanisms, focusing on antioxidant and Hsp60 expression alteration mechanisms.Methods: 80 mice were randomly assigned into four groups: HAP group, AP group, HNS group, and NS group and each group were set 3 observation time point as 1h, 3h and 5h (n=6- 8). Mouse AP model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 50μg/kg caerulein per hour for 6 injections both in AP and HAP groups, and mice in NS group and HNS group given normal saline (NS) injections at the same way as control respectively. Mice in HAP group and HNS group were treated with hydrogen-rich gases inhalation for 3 days before the first injection of caerulein or saline, while mice in AP group and NS group in normal air condition. Histopathology of pancreatic tissue, plasma amylase and lipase, plasma IL-1 and IL-6, pancreatic glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and Hsp60 mRNA and protein expression were investigated. Comparisons were made by one-way analysis of variance.Results: The pancreatic pathological changes, plasma amylase and lipase activity, and the increase of plasma IL-1 and IL-6 levels in AP mice were significantly improved by the hydrogen-rich gases pretreatment, Meanwhile, the pancreatic GSH content increased and the pancreatic MDA content decreased. And, the hydrogen-rich gases pretreatment improved the Hsp60 protein expression in pancreatic tissues of AP mice at 1h and 5h. Conclusions: Pre-inhalation of hydrogen-rich gases have a good protective effect on AP mice, and the possible mechanisms of reduced oxidative stress and the early increased pancreatic Hsp60 protein deserve attention.
Multi-Locational Evaluation of Medium-Staple Cotton Genotypes for Seed-Cotton Yield under the Middleveld Agro-Ecological Zones of Zimbabwe
Authors: Mare Marco , Chapepa Blessing , Mubvekeri Washington
Published: August 2020

BackgroundThe Zimbabwean national cotton breeding programme has the mandate to develop superior cotton (Gossypium Hirsutum) varieties with good field performance and high fibre properties. Cotton productivity in Zimbabwe has remained very low, with national average seed cotton yield record of 650kg ha-1 (AMA Report, 2019) compared to the potential 2000kg ha-1. Since this is a result of many biotic and abiotic factors, field experiments laid in a Randomized Complete Block Design were conducted on ten genotypes (seven test genotypes and three check varieties) from 2012 to 2019 across 13 diverse locations in Zimbabwe to evaluate cotton yield performance, stability and adaptability by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Genotype and Genotype by Environment Interaction (GGE) Biplot methods. ResultsThe Analysis of Variance indicated significant (P< 0.001) effects of Genotype (G), Environment (E) and their Interaction (GE). The highest percentage of variation was explained by E/G/GE (60.34%) while G/E+GE together explained the rest of the variation (<40%). Joint effects of G and GE were partitioned using the GGE biplot analysis explaining total of 59.08% (PC1 = 36.96% and PC2 =22.12%) of the GGE sum of squares. The biplot analysis revealed that candidates 917-05-7, TN96-05-9, 912-05-1 and GN 96 (b)-05-8 were the ideal and stable genotypes. The candidate variety 917-05-7 significantly (P< 0.001) showed superior yield performance over checks CRI-MS1 and CRI-MS2 recording 5% and 5.5% yield increase respectively. Candidate 917-05-7 recorded a higher earliness index (78.11%) over checks CRI-MS1 and CRI-MS2 (77 and 76% respectively) thus indicating potential attributes for good cotton production with more pick-able bolls earlier than the current commercial varieties.ConclusionCandidate 917-05-7 has been identified as the ideal genotype in terms of high yielding potential, and stability hence recommended for commercial release and use as breeding parent for future breeding programs.
Ketorolac and Predicted Severe Acute Pancreatitis: A Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Shahbazi Shaahin , Shariatpanahi Zahra Vahdat , Shahbazi Erfan
Published: August 2020

Background: We evaluated effect of ketorolac on reducing the severity of acute pancreatitis.Methods: Fifty six adult patients, with predicted severe acute pancreatitis were randomly divided into two groups. The patients in the study group received intravenous ketorolac, 10 mg, 3 times daily from time of enrollment for a maximum of 5 days as needed along with standard medical treatment. Primary outcome measure was the change in the serum level of hs-CRP. Patients were also followed up in terms of hospitalization duration, need for ICU care, development of organ failure, persistent organ failure, pancreatic necrosis, nutritional assessment and mortality. The study was continued to gather clinical follow up information up to 4 months.Results: Serum level of hs-CRP was significantly lower in the ketorolac group than in the control group on days 3, 4, and 5. Organ failure, pseudocyst formation, acute necrotic collection and intensive care unit transfer occurred non-significantly more in the control group than in the ketorolac group. Median days of hospitalization were significantly lower in the study group than in the control group. Based on the Log rank test, survival within 4 months was marginally lower in the control group (P=0.076). The time to start feeding was significantly shorter in the study group than in the control group with no need to artificial enteral nutrition in the ketorolac group. Frequency of NPO (not per oral) was significantly lower in the ketorolac group.Conclusion: The use of ketorolac may improve feeding and clinical outcomes in severe acute pancreatitis.ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02885441, Date: August 31, 2016
The Psyllids Triozoida Limbata Supplant the Defenses of Psidium Guajava Plants to Garentee Feeding and Protection
Authors: Picanço Mayara Moledo , Carmo Flávia Maria da Silva , Azevedo Aristea Alves , Lima Lucas Leal , Silva Ricardo Siqueira da , Ramos Humberto Josué de Oliveira , Souza Og Francisco Fonseca de , Picanço Marcelo Coutinho
Published: August 2020

Background: Herbivores cause biochemical, physiological, and morphological changes on plants. The ultimate effects of the herbivore activities are damages on the plant's body that can lead from local tissues death to the plant death. The intensity of herbivore attack and the plant's capability to defend itself determine the outcomes of herbivory. When the plant under attack has economic importance, such damages can diminish the productivity of the plantation and compromise the economy of families and the local communities. Although the adverse effects of herbivory on plants and economy are entirely known, some biological mechanisms underlying these damages remain unclear, especially at the anatomical and hormonal levels. The psyllid Triozoida limbata (Hemiptera: Triozidae) is a critical guava (Psidium guajava) pest in the Neotropical region, causing productivity plantation losses up to 55%. Psyllids cause visible morphological changes on guava leaves; however, there is a lack of detailed studied of the cellular, anatomical, and hormonal aspects of the subject. Thus, this work aimed to determine the alterations caused in guava leaves by T. limbata through anatomical and hormonal analyzes. Results: We found that the psyllid's nymphs feeding causes cells hypertrophy and hyperplasia determining the formation of the leaf-roll galls. Although there was no anatomical differentiation of the mesophilic tissues, the cells accumulate starch. Along with the anatomical changes, we observed increasing in the jasmonic acid and reduction of zeatin concentrations in the leaves. Conclusions: The alteration of phytohormone contents and the anatomical changes indicates that the feeding of T. limbata activates plant defenses, but it is not active toward the insects off. The insect nymphs live inside the leaf-roll galls until adults' phase, feeding on the guava leaves xylem and phloem. In commercial guava orchard, the control of T. limbata nymphs have been difficult. Thus, the understanding of the composition of this protective layer can help to find the most effective and efficient control solution for this pest.
Construction of a High Density Genetic Map and QTL Mapping of PEG-Induced Drought Tolerance at Seedling Stage in Sesame Using Whole Genome Re-Sequencing
Authors: Liang Junchao , Ye Yanying , Yan Xiaowen , Yan Tingxian , Rao Yueliang , Zhou Hongying , Sun Jian , Le Meiwang
Published: August 2020

BackgroundImprovement in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) drought tolerance at seedling stage is important for yield stability. Genetic approaches combing with conventional breeding is the most effective way to develop drought-tolerant cultivars. So far, very few studies have been reported to reveal gene/ quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling drought tolerance in sesame. To identify the genomic regions associated with drought tolerance, we constructed a high-density genetic map using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population through whole genome re-sequencing (WGRS) technique. QTLs contributing to three seedling traits were identified under both non-stress and water stress conditions.ResultsThree drought tolerance related traits and their relative values (the ratio of value under stress to value under control condition), including seedling weight (SW), shoot length (SL) and root length (RL), were evaluated under control and PEG-induced osmotic conditions at seedling stage in a RIL population derived from cross of Zhushanbai (ZSB) and Jinhuangma (JHM). Significant variation and high broad sense heritability were observed for all traits except SW under stress condition in the population. With this population, a high-density linkage map with 1354 bin markers was constructed through WGRS strategy. Composite interval mapping analysis was performed for all the traits as well as their relative phenotypic data. A total of 34 QTLs were detected for these three traits under both conditions and their relative values, and 13 stable QTLs associated with seven traits could be revealed in two independent experiments, explaining on average, 4.95-16.26% of phenotypic variation for each QTL. Four of them contributed more than 10% of phenotypic variation. Root length related QTLs were first identified in sesame. One region on chromosome 12 contained two major QTLs related to RL under osmotic condition and relative RL. ConclusionThe current study reports the first QTL mapping of drought tolerance related traits through a RIL population and first QTL detection of root related trait (root length) in sesame. These findings will provide new genetic resources for molecular improvement of drought tolerance and candidate gene identification in sesame.
Transcriptome and Metabolite Profiling Analyses Provide Insight Into Volatile Aroma Compounds of the Apple Cultivar ‘Ruixue’ and Its Parents During Fruit Development
Authors: Liu Xiaojie , Hao Nini , Feng Ruifang , Meng Zhipeng , Li Yana , Zhao Zhengyang
Published: August 2020

Background: Aroma is one the most crucial inherent quality attributes of fruit. ‘Ruixue’ apples were selected from a cross between ‘Pink Lady’ and ‘Fuji’, a later ripening yellow new cultivar. However, there is little known about the content and composition of aroma compounds in ‘Ruixue’ apples or the genetic characters of ‘Ruixue’ and its parents. In addition, the metabolic pathways for biosynthesis of aroma volatiles and aroma-related genes remain poorly understood.Results: Volatile aroma compounds were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Our results show that the aroma proﬁle of volatile compounds changes with ripening. Aldehydes were the dominant volatile compounds in early fruit development, with alcohols and esters increasing dramatically during maturation. In ripe fruit, esters and terpenoids were the main aroma volatiles in ripening fruit of ‘Pink Lady’ and ‘Fuji’ apples, and they included butyl 2-methylbutanoate, propanoic acid, hexyl ester, propanoic acid, hexyl ester, hexanoic acid, hexyl ester, acetic acid, hexyl ester and (Z, E)-α-farnesene. Interestingly, aldehydes and terpenoids were the dominant volatile aroma compounds in ripening fruit of ‘Ruixue’, and they mainly included 2-hexenal, 2-hexenal, octanal, (E)-2-octenal, nonanal and (Z, E)-α-farnesene. By comparing the transcriptome proﬁles of ‘Ruixue’ and its parents fruits during development, we identiﬁed a large number of aroma-related genes related to the fatty acid, isoleucine and sesquiterpenoid metabolism pathways and transcription factors that may regulate aroma biosynthesis. Conclusions: Our initial study facilitates a better understanding of the volatile aroma compounds that affect fruit flavour as well as the mechanisms underlying diﬀerences in flavour between ‘Ruixue’ and its parents.
Mitochondria in human acute myeloid leukemia cell lines have ultrastructural alterations linked to deregulation of their respiratory profiles
Authors: Mondet Julie , Presti Caroline Lo , Chevalier Simon , Bertrand Anne , Tondeur Sylvie , Blanchet Sandrine , Leer Anne Mc , Pernet-Gallay Karin , Mossuz Pascal
Published: August 2020

Mitochondria are not only essential for cell metabolism and energy supply but they are also engaged in calcium homeostasis, reactive oxygen species generation and play a key role in apoptosis. As a consequence, functional mitochondria disorders are involved in many human cancers including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, very little data are available about the deregulation of their number and/or shape in leukemic cells, despite the evident link between ultrastructure and function. In this context, we analyzed the ultrastructural mitochondrial parameters (number per cell, mitochondria area, number of cristae/mitochondria, cristae thickness) in five leukemia cell lines (HEL, HL60, K562, KG1 and OCI-AML3) together with the functional assay of their respiratory profile. First of all, we show significant differences within basal respiration, maximal respiration, ATP production and spare respiratory capacity between our cell lines, confirming the various respiratory profiles between leukemia subtypes. Second, we highlight that these variations were obviously associated with significant inter-leukemia heterogeneity of the number and/or shape of mitochondria. For instance, KG1 characterized by the lowest number of mitochondria together with reduced cristae diameter displayed a very particularly deficient respiratory profile. In comparison, HEL and K562, both cell lines with high respiratory profiles, harbored the highest number of mitochondria/cells with high cristae diameters. We show the leukemia lines present ultrastructural alterations of their mitochondria likely to impact the regulatory pathways of cell mortality, such as the process of mitophagy or calcium homeostasis. Indeed, a significant disparity in the presence of Mitochondrial-derived vesicles (MDVs) precursors among AML cell lines, suggesting that leukemic cells displayed alteration of mitophagy, is also shown. For instance, few MDV precursors were observed in K562, carrying ASXL1mutation. Moreover, HL60 carried high levels of matrix granules and Mitochondria-associated Endoplasmic Reticulum membranes (MAMs) both implicated in calcium-dependent apoptosis. In conclusion, this study offers new and original data on mitochondria heterogeneity linked to the deregulation of respiration profiles in AMLs, suggesting that modifications of mitochondria shape and/or number in leukemic cells could be a targeted mechanism to regulate their proliferative potential.
Volatile metal emissions from volcanic degassing and lava-seawater interactions at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai’i
Authors: Mason Emily , Wieser Penny , Liu Emma , Edmonds Marie , Ilyinskaya Evgenia , Whitty Rachel , Mather Tamsin , Elias Tamar , Nadeau Patricia , Wilkes Thomas , McGonigle Andrew , Pering Tom , Mims Forrest , Kern Christoph , Schneider David , Oppenheimer Clive
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Responses to Drought Stress Modulate the Susceptibility to Plasmopara Viticola in Grapevine
Authors: Heyman Lisa , Chrysargyris Antonios , Demeestere Kristof , Tzortzakis Nikolaos , Höfte Monica
Published: August 2020

Climate change will increase the occurrence of plants simultaneously suffering drought and pathogen stress. Although it is well-known that drought can alter the way plants respond to pathogens, the knowledge about the effect of concurrent drought and biotic stress in grapevine is scarce. This is especially true for Plasmopara viticola, the causal agent of grapevine downy mildew. This research addresses how vines with different drought tolerance respond to the challenge with P. viticola, drought stress or their combination, and how one stress affects the other. An artificial inoculation was performed on two cultivars, exposed to full or deficit irrigation, in the Mediterranean climate of Cyprus. In parallel, leaf disks from these plants were inoculated in controlled conditions. Leaves were sampled at an early infection stage to determine the influence of the single and combined stresses on oxidative parameters, chlorophyll and phytohormones. Under irrigation, the local Cypriot cultivar Xynisteri was more susceptible to P. viticola than the drought-sensitive Chardonnay. Drought stress increased their susceptibility in leaves inoculated in controlled conditions. Conversely, both cultivars showed resistance against P. viticola when inoculated in planta under continued deficit irrigation. Despite their resistance, the pathogen-associated responses in auxin, antioxidant enzyme activity and proline still occurred in these drought-stressed plants. Surprisingly, abscisic acid, rather than the generally implicated jasmonic and salicylic acid, seemed to play a prominent role in this resistance. The irrigation-dependent susceptibility highlights that the changing climate and the practices used to mitigate its effects, may have a profound impact on plant pathogens.
Gravity Determines the Direction of Nerve Roots Sedimentation in the Lumbar Spinal Canal
Authors: Yang Jun , Feng Zhiyun , Hong Zhenhua , Yang Jiang , Zhou Tingjie , Yao Xin , Xu Taifeng
Published: August 2020

Objectives: To investigate the role of gravity in the sedimentation of lumbar spine nerve roots using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of various body position. Methods: A total of 56 patients suffered from back pain and underwent conventional supine lumbar spine MR imaging were selected from sanmen hospital database. All the patients were called back to our hospital to perform MR imaging in prone position or lateral position. Furthermore, the sedimentation sign (SedSign) was determined based on the suspension of the nerve roots in the dural sac on cross-sectional MR images, and 31 cases were rated as positive and another 25 cases were negative. Results: The mean age of negative SedSign group was significantly younger than that of positive SedSign group (51.7±8.7 vs 68.4±10.5, P<0.05). The constitutions of clinical diagnosis were significantly different between patients with a positive SedSign and those with a negative SedSign (P<0.001). Overall, nerve roots of the vast majority of patients (48/56, 85.7%) subsided to the ventral side of the dural sac on the prone MR images, although that of 8 (14.3%) patients remain stay in the dorsal side of dural sac. Nerve roots of only one patient with negative SedSign did not settle to the ventral dural sac, while this phenomenon occurred in 7 patients in positive SedSign group (4% vs 22.6%, P<0.001). In addition, the nerve roots of all the five patients subsided to the left side of dural sac on lateral position MR images. Conclusions: The nerve roots sedimentation followed the direction of gravity. Positive SedSign, floating of nerve roots in the canal, may be a MR sign of lumbar pathology involved the spinal canal.