bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In silico identification and assessment of insecticide target sites in the genome of the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida
Authors: Rinkevich Frank D. , Bourgeois Lelania
Published: February 2020

Background

The small hive beetle,Aethina tumida, is a rapidly emerging global pest of honey bee colonies. Small hive beetle infestation can be extremely destructive, which may cause honey bees to abscond and render colony infrastructure unusable. Due to the impacts small hive beetles have on honey bees, a wide variety of physical, cultural, and chemical control measures have been implemented to manage small hive beetle infestations. The use of insecticides to control small hive beetle populations is an emerging management tactic. Currently, very little genomic information exists on insecticide target sites in the small hive beetle. Therefore, the objective of this study is to utilize focused in silico comparative genomics approaches to identify and assess the potential insecticide sensitivity of the major insecticide target sites in the small hive beetle genome.

Results

No previously described resistance mutations were identified in any orthologs of insecticide target sites. Alternative exon use and A-to-I RNA editing were absent in AtumSC1. The ryanodine receptor in small hive beetle (Atum_Ryr) was highly conserved and no previously described resistance mutations were identified. A total of 12 nAChR subunits were identified with similar alternative exon use in other insects. Alternative exon use and critical structural features of the GABA-gated chloride channel subunits (Atum_RDL, Atum_GRD, and Atum_LCCH3) were conserved. Five splice variants were found for the glutamate-gated chloride channel subunit. Exon 3c of Atum_GluCl may be a beetle-specific alternative exon. The co-occurrence of exons 9a and 9b in the pH-sensitive chloride channel (Atum_pHCl) is a unique combination that introduces sites of post-translational modification. The repertoire and alternative exon use for histamine-gated chloride channels (Atum-HisCl), octopamine (Atum_OctR) and tyramine receptors (Atum_TAR) were conserved.

Conclusions

The recently published small hive beetle genome likely serves as a reference for insecticide-susceptible versions of insecticide target sites. These comparative in silico studies are the first step in discovering targets that can be exploited for small hive beetle-specific control as well as tracking changes in the frequency of resistance alleles as part of a resistance monitoring program. Comparative toxicity alongside honey bees is required to verify these in silico predictions.
Diversity and geographic distribution of soil streptomycetes with antagonistic potential against actinomycetoma-causing Streptomyces sudanensis in Sudan and South Sudan
Authors: Hamid Mohamed E. , Reitz Thomas , Joseph Martin R. P. , Hommel Kerstin , Mahgoub Adil , Elhassan Mogahid M. , Buscot François , Tarkka Mika
Published: February 2020

Background

Production of antibiotics to inhibit competitors affects soil microbial community composition and contributes to disease suppression. In this work, we characterized whether Streptomyces bacteria, prolific antibiotics producers, inhibit a soil borne human pathogenic microorganism, Streptomyces sudanensis. S. sudanensis represents the major causal agent of actinomycetoma – a largely under-studied and dreadful subcutaneous disease of humans in the tropics and subtropics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro S. sudanensis inhibitory potential of soil streptomycetes isolated from different sites in Sudan, including areas with frequent (mycetoma belt) and rare actinomycetoma cases of illness.

Results

Using selective media, 173 Streptomyces isolates were recovered from 17 sites representing three ecoregions and different vegetation and ecological subdivisions in Sudan. In total, 115 strains of the 173 (66.5%) displayed antagonism against S. sudanensis with different levels of inhibition. Strains isolated from the South Saharan steppe and woodlands ecoregion (Northern Sudan) exhibited higher inhibitory potential than those strains isolated from the East Sudanian savanna ecoregion located in the south and southeastern Sudan, or the strains isolated from the Sahelian Acacia savanna ecoregion located in central and western Sudan. According to 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, isolates were predominantly related to Streptomyces werraensis, S. enissocaesilis, S. griseostramineus and S. prasinosporus. Three clusters of isolates were related to strains that have previously been isolated from human and animal actinomycetoma cases: SD524 (Streptomyces sp. subclade 6), SD528 (Streptomyces griseostramineus) and SD552 (Streptomyces werraensis).

Conclusion

The in vitro inhibitory potential against S. sudanensis was proven for more than half of the soil streptomycetes isolates in this study and this potential may contribute to suppressing the abundance and virulence of S. sudanensis. The streptomycetes isolated from the mycetoma free South Saharan steppe ecoregion show the highest average inhibitory potential. Further analyses suggest that mainly soil properties and rainfall modulate the structure and function of Streptomyces species, including their antagonistic activity against S. sudanensis.
Correction to: Low serum estradiol levels are related to Mycobacterium avium complex lung disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Uwamino Yoshifumi , Nishimura Tomoyasu , Sato Yasunori , Tamizu Eiko , Asakura Takanori , Uno Shunsuke , Mori Masaaki , Fujiwara Hiroshi , Ishii Makoto , Kawabe Hiroshi , Murata Mitsuru , Hasegawa Naoki
Published: February 2020

After publication of the original article [1], we were notified that units of testosterone in main text and abstract and units of DHEA-S in Fig. 1 and Table 4 are incorrect.
Shear wave elasticity by tracing total nodule showed high reproducibility and concordance with fibrosis in thyroid cancer
Authors: Yoo Myung Hi , Kim Hye Jeong , Choi In Ho , Park Suyeon , Kim Sang Jin , Park Hyeong Kyu , Byun Dong Won , Suh Kyoil
Published: February 2020

Background

Although shear wave elastography (SWE) is reported to be useful in detecting malignant thyroid nodules, it shows a wide range of cut-off values of elasticity index (EI) in detecting malignant nodules. The cause of discrepancy remains unclear. Fibrosis of the tumors is known to increase the EI in SWE, and matching of SWE and surgical histopathology has not been fully illustrated in thyroid cancer. We aimed to evaluate the reproducibility of the new total nodular region of interest (ROI) method excluding the subjective features of focal circular ROI placement and to determine the lesion that causes the elevation of EI on SWE and on histopathology.

Methods

A total of 29 thyroid cancers from 28 patients were included. We evaluated the reproducibility of EI in the new total nodular ROI using Q-Box Trace program and compared the EI in focal nodular ROI using a 3-mm circular area. We analyzed the correlation between fibrosis and EI.

Result

The coefficient of variation (CV) of the intrarater assay was significantly lower in total nodular ROI than in focal nodular ROI within the image in rater 1 (1.7% vs. 13.4%, p < 0.001) and in rater 2 (1.4% vs. 16.9%, p < 0.001) and in different images in rater 1 (7.6% vs. 12.3%, p = 0.040) and in rater 2 (7.5% vs. 19.8%, p = 0.004). Moreover, CV of the interrater assay showed similar results (14.9% vs. 19%, p = 0.030). Interrater intraclass correlation coefficient showed better agreement in total nodular ROI than in focal nodular ROI (0.863 vs. 0.783). The degree of fibrosis on histopathology showed significant correlations with EI (EMean, p < 0.001; EMax, p = 0.027), and the location of fibrosis was concordant with the high EI area on SWE.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that the new total nodular ROI method showed higher reproducibility and better agreement in intra- and interrater assay than the focal nodular ROI method, suggesting a valuable and standardized method in clinical practice. Moreover, our results showed that fibrosis in the histopathology increased EI on SWE and might lead to the discrepancy of the cut-off values in detecting thyroid cancer.
Early onset neutropenia: a useful predictor of chemosensitivity and favorable prognosis in patients with serous ovarian cancer
Authors: He Yijing , Li Ting , Liu Jue , Ou Qiong , Zhou Junlin
Published: February 2020

Background

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the leading cause of gynecological cancer-associated deaths and a majority of its histological type is manifested as serous ovarian cancer (SOC). In this study, we investigated whether the timing of onset of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia (CIN) is related to chemotherapeutic response and disease outcome of SOC.

Methods

One hundred sixty-nine primary SOC patients receiving six doses of carboplatin plus paclitaxel adjuvant chemotherapy following cytoreductive surgery were retrospectively included in this research. CIN was grouped as early onset and late onset neutropenia depending on the timing of development. Development of CIN prior to or with administration of 3rd cycle of chemotherapy was listed as early onset neutropenia, while those CIN due to later stage chemotherapy were grouped into non-early type. The relevance of time of CIN onset with the clinical characteristics, chemotherapeutic response, progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were determined and analyzed by using Kaplan–Meier curves, Logistic regression method, Cox proportional hazards models, and Chi-square tests.

Results

The age distribution of the patients was between 27 to 77 years. Fifty years was the median. No statistical significances of difference in age, FIGO stage, histological grade, tumor residual and lymph node invasion, as well as CA125 level in each CIN group were found (all P>0.05). The patients from non-early onset group showed higher chemoresistance rates (78.33%) compared to those from early onset group (9.17%). Additionally, patients in early onset group showed improved median PFS (23 vs. 9 months; P<0.001) and median OS (55 vs.24 months; P<0.001).

Conclusions

Early onset neutropenia may be potentially used as a potential indicator for chemosensitivity and favorable prognosis of SOC in patients who underwent six cycles of carboplatin plus paclitaxel adjuvant chemotherapy following primary cytoreductive surgery.
One-year natural course of corneal densitometry in high myopic patients after implantation of an implantable collamer lens (model V4c)
Authors: Chen Xun , Shen Yang , Xu Haipeng , Wang Xiaoying , Zhou Xingtao
Published: February 2020

Background

Corneal densitometry, which is also known as corneal backscattering, is a surrogate measure of corneal clarity. The purpose of the study was to investigate the changes in corneal densitometry (CD) after implanting an implantable collamer lens (ICL-V4c).

Method

Twenty-six high myopic patients (aged 29.3 ± 6.6 years, 6 males and 20 females) who underwent ICL-V4c implantation were enrolled. Intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal topography, corneal densitometry, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UCDVA), manifest refraction, and best corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA) were evaluated pre-operatively and at 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-operatively. Endothelial cell density (ECD) was measured pre-operatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months post-operatively. The efficacy index (mean post-operative UCDVA / mean pre-operative BCDVA) and the safety index (mean post-operative BCDVA / mean pre-operative BCDVA) were evaluated at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months post-operatively.

Results

Over the annular diameters of 0–2 mm, the pre-operative densitometry values of the anterior layer, central layer, posterior layer, and total layer were 20.1 ± 2.8, 11.8 ± 1.1, 10.5 ± 0.9 and 14.1 ± 1.5, respectively. From pre-operatively to post-operative Month 12, the values changed insignificantly (P = 0.177, P = 0.153, P = 0.543 and P = 0.207, respectively). Over the annular diameters of 2–6 mm, the pre-operative mean densitometry values were 17.9 ± 2.2, 10.5 ± 0.9, and 12.6 ± 1.2, respectively. From pre-operatively to post-operative Month 12, the values decreased to 16.5 ± 2.1, 10.0 ± 0.9, and 11.9 ± 1.2, respectively, which were similar to the pre-operative values (all P > 0.05) but significantly lower than the values obtained at post-operative Day 1 (P = 0.013, P = 0.002 and P = 0.010, respectively). The densitometry value of the posterior layer over the annular diameters of 2 to 6 mm remained unchanged (from 9.4 ± 0.7 to 9.1 ± 0.7) over time (P = 0.372). The efficacy and safety indices assessed at 12 months post-operatively were 1.04 ± 0.27 and 1.19 ± 0.23, respectively. The changes in IOP and ECD values were statistically insignificant (P = 0.896 and P = 0.968, respectively).

Conclusion

ICL-V4c implantation may be safe and efficient for high ametropia correction. The corneal densitometry values obtained over the annulus of 0–6 mm increased slightly from before the operation to post-operative Day 1 and then decreased gradually, which indicates that ICL-V4c implantation may not compromise corneal clarity.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices assessment of malaria interventions in rural Zambia
Authors: Jumbam Desmond T. , Stevenson Jennifer C. , Matoba Japhet , Grieco John P. , Ahern Lacey N. , Hamainza Busiku , Sikaala Chadwick H. , Chanda-Kapata Pascalina , Cardol Esther I. , Munachoonga Passwell , Achee Nicole L.
Published: February 2020

Background

Despite rapid upscale of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS), malaria remains a major source of morbidity and mortality in Zambia. Uptake and utilization of these and novel interventions are often affected by knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) amongst persons living in malaria-endemic areas. The aims of this study were to assess malaria KAP of primary caregivers and explore trends in relation to ITN use, IRS acceptance and mosquito density in two endemic communities in Luangwa and Nyimba districts, Zambia.

Methods

A cohort of 75 primary caregivers were assessed using a cross-sectional, forced-choice malaria KAP survey on ITN use, IRS acceptance and initial perception of a novel spatial repellent (SR) product under investigation. Entomological sampling was performed in participant homes using CDC Miniature Light Traps to relate indoor mosquito density with participant responses.

Results

Ninety-nine percent of participants cited bites of infected mosquitoes as the route of malaria transmission although other routes were also reported including drinking dirty water (64%) and eating contaminated food (63%). All caregivers agreed that malaria was a life-threatening disease with the majority of caregivers having received malaria information from health centers (86%) and community health workers (51%). Cumulatively, self-reported mosquito net use was 67%. Respondents reportedly liked the SR prototype product but improvements on color, shape and size were suggested. Overall, 398 mosquitoes were captured from light-trap collections, including 49 anophelines and 349 culicines. Insecticide treated nets use was higher in households from which at least one mosquito was captured.

Conclusions

The current study identified misconceptions in malaria transmission among primary caregivers indicating remaining knowledge gaps in educational campaigns. Participant responses also indicated a misalignment between a low perception of IRS efficacy and high stated acceptance of IRS, which should be further examined to better understand uptake and sustainability of other vector control strategies. While ITNs were found to be used in study households, misperceptions between presence of mosquitoes and bite protection practices did exist. This study highlights the importance of knowledge attitudes and practice surveys, with integration of entomological sampling, to better guide malaria vector control product development, strategy acceptance and compliance within endemic communities.
An octavalent vaccine provides pregnant gilts protection against a highly virulent porcine parvovirus strain
Authors: van den Born Erwin , van den Elzen Paul P. M. , van Kilsdonk Emma , Hoeijmakers Mathieu J. H. , Segers Ruud P. A. M.
Published: February 2020

Background

Porcilis® Ery+Parvo+Lepto is an octavalent inactivated ready-to-use vaccine that contains Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae (Ery), porcine parvovirus (PPV), and six serogroups of Leptospira (Lepto). The efficacy of Porcilis® Ery + Parvo+Lepto against reproductive problems associated with porcine parvovirus (PPV) infection was evaluated in pregnant gilts. For this, a group of ninegilts was vaccinated twice (at 5 and 6 months old) with Porcilis® Ery + Parvo+Lepto (Group 1), while a group of eight gilts was included as unvaccinated controls (Group 2). All pigs were artificially inseminated 4 weeks after the second vaccination. They were challenged during early gestation with PPV-27a, a virulent cluster D strain, and euthanized to collect their offspring by hysterectomy around day 90 in pregnancy. Antibody responses against PPV in gilts were measured, and the presence of PPV in progeny was also determined.

Results

No clinical signs were observed after vaccination. After PPV challenge, all foetuses from the vaccinated gilts were alive (132/132), while in the unvaccinated group only 41% were alive (46/112), 19.6% were dead and 39.4% of the offspring (44/112) were mummified. PPV could be detected by qPCR in 14% of the progeny from vaccinated gilts at an average of 4.7 log10/ml, whereas this was significantly higher in the control group, where 90% of the progeny were PPV positive, with titres of 9.8 log10/ml on average.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that vaccination of gilts with Porcilis® Ery + Parvo+Lepto was safe and induced an immune response sufficient to protect progeny against PPV by reducing transplacental infection.
Resistance of the respiratory system measured with forced oscillation technique (FOT) correlates with bronchial thermoplasty response
Authors: Goorsenberg Annika W. M. , d’Hooghe Julia N. S. , Slats Annelies M. , van den Aardweg Joost G. , Annema Jouke T. , Bonta Peter I.
Published: February 2020

Background

Bronchial Thermoplasty (BT) is an endoscopic treatment for severe asthma using radiofrequency energy to target airway remodeling including smooth muscle. The correlation of pulmonary function tests and BT response are largely unknown. Forced Oscillation Technique (FOT) is an effort-independent technique to assess respiratory resistance (Rrs) by using pressure oscillations including small airways.

Aim

To investigate the effect of BT on pulmonary function, assessed by spirometry, bodyplethysmography and FOT and explore associations between pulmonary function parameters and BT treatment response.

Methods

Severe asthma patients recruited to the TASMA trial were analyzed in this observational cohort study. Spirometry, bodyplethysmography and FOT measurements were performed before and 6 months after BT. Asthma questionnaires (AQLQ/ACQ-6) were used to assess treatment response.

Results

Twenty-four patients were analyzed. AQLQ and ACQ improved significantly 6 months after BT (AQLQ 4.15 (±0.96) to 4.90 (±1.14) and ACQ 2.64 (±0.60) to 2.11 (±1.04), p = 0.004 and p = 0.02 respectively). Pulmonary function parameters remained stable. Improvement in FEV1 correlated with AQLQ change (r = 0.45 p = 0.03). Lower respiratory resistance (Rrs) at baseline (both 5 Hz and 19 Hz) significantly correlated to AQLQ improvement (r = − 0.52 and r = − 0.53 respectively, p = 0.01 (both)). Borderline significant correlations with ACQ improvement were found (r = 0.30 p = 0.16 for 5 Hz and r = 0.41 p = 0.05 for 19 Hz).

Conclusion

Pulmonary function remained stable after BT. Improvement in FEV1 correlated with asthma questionnaires improvement including AQLQ. Lower FOT-measured respiratory resistance at baseline was associated with favorable BT response, which might reflect targeting of larger airways with BT.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02225392; Registered 26 August 2014.
A comprehensive analysis of the animal carcinogenicity data for glyphosate from chronic exposure rodent carcinogenicity studies
Authors: Portier Christopher J.
Published: February 2020

Since the introduction of glyphosate-tolerant genetically-modified plants, the global use of glyphosate has increased dramatically making it the most widely used pesticide on the planet. There is considerable controversy concerning the carcinogenicity of glyphosate with scientists and regulatory authorities involved in the review of glyphosate having markedly different opinions. One key aspect of these opinions is the degree to which glyphosate causes cancer in laboratory animals after lifetime exposure. In this review, twenty-one chronic exposure animal carcinogenicity studies of glyphosate are identified from regulatory documents and reviews; 13 studies are of sufficient quality and detail to be reanalyzed in this review using trend tests, historical control tests and pooled analyses. The analyses identify 37 significant tumor findings in these studies and demonstrate consistency across studies in the same sex/species/strain for many of these tumors. Considering analyses of the individual studies, the consistency of the data across studies, the pooled analyses, the historical control data, non-neoplastic lesions, mechanistic evidence and the associated scientific literature, the tumor increases seen in this review are categorized as to the strength of the evidence that glyphosate causes these cancers. The strongest evidence shows that glyphosate causes hemangiosarcomas, kidney tumors and malignant lymphomas in male CD-1 mice, hemangiomas and malignant lymphomas in female CD-1 mice, hemangiomas in female Swiss albino mice, kidney adenomas, liver adenomas, skin keratoacanthomas and skin basal cell tumors in male Sprague-Dawley rats, adrenal cortical carcinomas in female Sprague-Dawley rats and hepatocellular adenomas and skin keratocanthomas in male Wistar rats.
Unmasking Retinitis Pigmentosa complex cases by a whole genome sequencing algorithm based on open-access tools: hidden recessive inheritance and potential oligogenic variants
Authors: González-del Pozo María , Fernández-Suárez Elena , Martín-Sánchez Marta , Bravo-Gil Nereida , Méndez-Vidal Cristina , Rodríguez-de la Rúa Enrique , Borrego Salud , Antiñolo Guillermo
Published: February 2020

Background

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder that results in inherited blindness. Despite the large number of genes identified, only ~ 60% of cases receive a genetic diagnosis using targeted-sequencing. The aim of this study was to design a whole genome sequencing (WGS) based approach to increase the diagnostic yield of complex Retinitis Pigmentosa cases.

Methods

WGS was conducted in three family members, belonging to one large apparent autosomal dominant RP family that remained unsolved by previous studies, using Illumina TruSeq library preparation kit and Illumina HiSeq X platform. Variant annotation, filtering and prioritization were performed using a number of open-access tools and public databases. Sanger sequencing of candidate variants was conducted in the extended family members.

Results

We have developed and optimized an algorithm, based on the combination of different open-access tools, for variant prioritization of WGS data which allowed us to reduce significantly the number of likely causative variants pending to be manually assessed and segregated. Following this algorithm, four heterozygous variants in one autosomal recessive gene (USH2A) were identified, segregating in pairs in the affected members. Additionally, two pathogenic alleles inADGRV1andPDZD7could be contributing to the phenotype in one patient.

Conclusions

The optimization of a diagnostic algorithm for WGS data analysis, accompanied by a hypothesis-free approach, have allowed us to unmask the genetic cause of the disease in one large RP family, as well as to reassign its inheritance pattern which implies differences in the clinical management of these cases. These results contribute to increasing the number of cases with apparently dominant inheritance that carry causal mutations in recessive genes, as well as the possible involvement of various genes in the pathogenesis of RP in one patient. Moreover, our WGS-analysis approach, based on open-access tools, can easily be implemented by other researchers and clinicians to improve the diagnostic yield of additional patients with inherited retinal dystrophies.
Identification of key genes controlling breast cancer stem cell characteristics via stemness indices analysis
Authors: Pei Jianying , Wang Yanxia , Li Yan
Published: February 2020

Background

With the gradual unveiling of tumour heterogeneity, cancer stem cells (CSCs) are now being considered the initial component of tumour initiation. However, the mechanisms of the growth and maintenance of breast cancer (BRCA) stem cells are still unknown.

Methods

To explore the crucial genes modulating BRCA stemness characteristics, we combined the gene expression value and mRNA expression-based stemness index (mRNAsi) of samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and the mRNAsi was corrected using the tumour purity (corrected mRNAsi). mRNAsi and corrected mRNAsi were analysed and showed a close relationship with BRCA clinical characteristics, including tumour depth, pathological staging and survival status. Next, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was applied to distinguish crucial gene modules and key genes. A series of functional analyses and expression validation of key genes were conducted using multiple databases, including Oncomine, Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and Gene Expression Profiling Integrative Analysis (GEPIA).

Results

This study found that mRNAsi and corrected mRNAsi scores were higher in BRCA tissues than that in normal tissues, and both of them increased with tumour stage. Higher corrected mRNAsi scores showed worse overall survival outcomes. We screened 3 modules and 32 key genes, and those key genes were found to be strongly correlated with each other. Functional analysis revealed that the key genes were related to cell fate decision events such as the cell cycle, cellular senescence, chromosome segregation and mitotic nuclear division. Among 32 key genes, we identified 12 genes that strongly correlated with BRCA survival.

Conclusions

Thirty-two genes were found to be closely related to BRCA stem cell characteristics; among them, 12 genes showed prognosis-oriented effects in BRCA patients. The most significant signalling pathway related to stemness in BRCA was the cell cycle pathway, which may support new ideas for screening therapeutic targets to inhibit BRCA stem characteristics. These findings may highlight some therapeutic targets for inhibiting BRCA stem cells.
Facilitating ventilator weaning through rib fixation combined with video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in severe blunt chest injury with acute respiratory failure
Authors: Wu Tung-Ho , Lin Hsing-Lin , Chou Yi-Pin , Huang Fong-Dee , Huang Wen-Yen , Tarng Yih-Wen
Published: February 2020

Background

Severe blunt chest injury sometimes induces acute respiratory failure (ARF), requiring ventilator use. We aimed to evaluate the effect of performing rib fixation with the addition of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) on patients with ARF caused by blunt thoracic injury with ventilator dependence.

Methods

This observational study prospectively enrolled patients with multiple bicortical rib fractures with hemothorax caused by severe blunt chest trauma. All patients received positive pressure mechanical ventilation within 24 h after trauma because of ARF. Some patients who received rib fixation with VATS were enrolled as group 1, and the others who received only VATS were designated as group 2. The length of ventilator use was the primary clinical outcome. Rates of pneumonia and length of hospital stay constituted secondary outcomes.

Results

A total of 61 patients were included in this study. The basic demographic characteristics between the two groups exhibited no statistical differences. All patients received operations within 6 days after trauma. The length of ventilator use was shorter in group 1 (3.19 ± 3.37 days vs. 8.05 ± 8.23, P = 0.002). The rate of pneumonia was higher in group 2 (38.1% vs. 75.0%, P = 0.005). The length of hospital stay was much shorter in group 1 (17.76 ± 8.38 days vs. 24.13 ± 9.80, P = 0.011).

Conclusion

Rib fixation combined with VATS could shorten the length of ventilator use and reduce the pneumonia rate in patients with severe chest blunt injury with ARF. Therefore, this operation could shorten the overall length of hospital stay.
Assembly of hundreds of novel bacterial genomes from the chicken caecum
Authors: Glendinning Laura , Stewart Robert D. , Pallen Mark J. , Watson Kellie A. , Watson Mick
Published: February 2020

Background

Chickens are a highly important source of protein for a large proportion of the human population. The caecal microbiota plays a crucial role in chicken nutrition through the production of short-chain fatty acids, nitrogen recycling, and amino acid production. In this study, we sequence DNA from caecal content samples taken from 24 chickens belonging to either a fast or a slower growing breed consuming either a vegetable-only diet or a diet containing fish meal.

Results

We utilise 1.6 T of Illumina data to construct 469 draft metagenome-assembled bacterial genomes, including 460 novel strains, 283 novel species, and 42 novel genera. We compare our genomes to data from 9 European Union countries and show that these genomes are abundant within European chicken flocks. We also compare the abundance of our genomes, and the carbohydrate active enzymes they produce, between our chicken groups and demonstrate that there are both breed- and diet-specific microbiomes, as well as an overlapping core microbiome.

Conclusions

This data will form the basis for future studies examining the composition and function of the chicken caecal microbiota.
Add-on effect of kinesiotape in patients with acute lateral ankle sprain: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shin Jeong-Cheol , Kim Jae-Hong , Nam Dongwoo , Park Gwang-Cheon , Lee Jeong-Soon
Published: February 2020

Background

Evidence for the add-on effect of kinesiotape (KT) with acupuncture for treating ankle sprains remains insufficient. We assessed the add-on effect of KT on ankle sprains by comparing acupuncture combined with KT (AcuKT) with acupuncture alone in patients with acute lateral ankle sprain (ALAS).

Methods

This study was a multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial that included a per-protocol analysis of the add-on effect of KT on ALAS. The randomization was software based and only the assessors were blinded. Sixty participants (20 each from three centers) with grade I or II ALAS were randomly assigned to acupuncture (n = 30) or AcuKT (n = 30) groups. Both groups received acupuncture treatment once daily, 5 days per week for 1 week. The AcuKT group received additional KT treatment. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) were obtained, and edema measurements were performed at baseline (week 0), at the end of the intervention (week 1), and at 4 weeks after intervention (week 5). The European Quality of Life Five Dimension-Five Level Scale (EQ-5D-5 L) measurements were conducted at week 0, week 1, week 5, and week 26 after the intervention. The number of recurrent ankle sprains was determined at 4, 8, 12 and 26 weeks after the intervention.

Results

Fifty-six patients with ALAS completed the trial (AcuKT group, n = 27; acupuncture group, n = 29). There were significant changes in visual analog scale score (AcuKT, P < 0.001; acupuncture, P < 0.001), the FAOS (AcuKT, P < 0.001; acupuncture, P < 0.001), and EQ-5D-5 L measurements (AcuKT, P < 0.001; acupuncture, P < 0.001) within both groups. There were no significant differences between groups in terms of any outcome or in a subanalysis based on symptom severity.

Conclusions

These results indicate that AcuKT did not show a positive add-on effect of KT with acupuncture in terms of pain reduction, edema, recovery of function, activities of daily living, quality of life or relapse of ALAS.

Trial registration

Clinical Research Information Service (cris.nih.go.kr), KCT0002257. Registered on 27 February 2017.
High anti-Ascaris seroprevalence in fattening pigs in Sichuan, China, calls for improved management strategies
Authors: Zheng Youle , Xie Yue , Geldhof Peter , Vlaminck Johnny , Ma Guangxu , Gasser Robin B. , Wang Tao
Published: February 2020

Background

Ascariasis, caused by Ascaris suum, is an important soil-transmitted parasitic disease of pigs worldwide. It leads to significant economic losses in the pork industry, as a consequence of low feed conversion efficiency in pigs and liver condemnation at slaughter. Despite ascariasis still being widespread on pig farms in many developing and the industrialised countries, there are surprisingly limited data on porcine ascariasis in China, where nearly half of the world’s total pork is produced.

Methods

In the present study, using the recently developed A. suum-haemoglobin (As-Hb) antigen-based serological test, we screened 512 individual serum samples from fattening pigs from 13 farms across seven distinct locations of Sichuan Province in China for anti-Ascaris antibody.

Results

The prevalence of anti-Ascaris antibody ranged from 0% to 100% on the distinct farms, with the mean (overall) seroprevalence being > 60%. There was no significant difference in seroprevalence between the intensive and extensive farms.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to measure anti-Ascaris seroprevalence in China. The results of this ‘snapshot’ investigation indicate that Ascaris infection in commercial pig farms in Sichuan Province is seriously underestimated, encouraging future, large-scale serological studies to assess the distribution and extent of Ascaris exposure and infection in various regions of China and the world.
Inhibition of methyltransferase activity of enhancer of zeste 2 leads to enhanced lipid accumulation and altered chromatin status in zebrafish
Authors: den Broeder Marjo J. , Ballangby Jarle , Kamminga Leonie M. , Aleström Peter , Legler Juliette , Lindeman Leif C. , Kamstra Jorke H.
Published: February 2020

Background

Recent studies indicate that exposure to environmental chemicals may increase susceptibility to developing metabolic diseases. This susceptibility may in part be caused by changes to the epigenetic landscape which consequently affect gene expression and lead to changes in lipid metabolism. The epigenetic modifier enhancer of zeste 2 (Ezh2) is a histone H3K27 methyltransferase implicated to play a role in lipid metabolism and adipogenesis. In this study, we used the zebrafish (Danio rerio) to investigate the role of Ezh2 on lipid metabolism and chromatin status following developmental exposure to the Ezh1/2 inhibitor PF-06726304 acetate. We used the environmental chemical tributyltin (TBT) as a positive control, as this chemical is known to act on lipid metabolism via EZH-mediated pathways in mammals.

Results

Zebrafish embryos (0–5 days post-fertilization, dpf) exposed to non-toxic concentrations of PF-06726304 acetate (5 μM) and TBT (1 nM) exhibited increased lipid accumulation. Changes in chromatin were analyzed by the assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing (ATAC-seq) at 50% epiboly (5.5 hpf). We observed 349 altered chromatin regions, predominantly located at H3K27me3 loci and mostly more open chromatin in the exposed samples. Genes associated to these loci were linked to metabolic pathways. In addition, a selection of genes involved in lipid homeostasis, adipogenesis and genes specifically targeted by PF-06726304 acetate via altered chromatin accessibility were differentially expressed after TBT and PF-06726304 acetate exposure at 5 dpf, but not at 50% epiboly stage. One gene, cebpa, did not show a change in chromatin, but did show a change in gene expression at 5 dpf. Interestingly, underlying H3K27me3 marks were significantly decreased at this locus at 50% epiboly.

Conclusions

Here, we show for the first time the applicability of ATAC-seq as a tool to investigate toxicological responses in zebrafish. Our analysis indicates that Ezh2 inhibition leads to a partial primed state of chromatin linked to metabolic pathways which results in gene expression changes later in development, leading to enhanced lipid accumulation. Although ATAC-seq seems promising, our in-depth assessment of the cebpa locus indicates that we need to consider underlying epigenetic marks as well.
Effect of extremely low-concentration gaseous chlorine dioxide against surface Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii in wet conditions on glass dishes
Authors: Morino Hirofumi , Futatsukame Masafumi , Miura Takanori , Shibata Takashi
Published: February 2020

Objective

Healthcare-associated infections due to Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) are a major cause of mortality and morbidity throughout the world. The purpose of the research described here was to evaluate the possibility of using an extremely low-concentration gaseous chlorine dioxide (ClO2, 0.01 ppmv, 0.028 mg/m3) as a technique to reduce the risk of environmental infection by GNB. In this study we set up an exposure chamber (1 m3) and used three types of GNB, namely Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii.

Results

The extremely low-concentration gaseous ClO2 inactivated E. coli (> 2 log10 reductions, within 2 h), P. aeruginosa (> 4 log10 reductions, within 2 h) and A. baumannii (> 2 log10 reductions, within 3 h) in wet conditions on glass dishes. Treatment of moist environments with extremely low-concentration gaseous ClO2 may help to reduce the risk of environmental infection by GNB without harmful effects.
Determinations of the peroxidative susceptibilities of cod liver oils by a newly-developed 1H NMR-based method: resistance of an antioxidant-fortified product isolated from pre-fermented sources
Authors: Percival B. C. , Zbasnik R. , Schlegel V. , Edgar M. , Zhang J. , Grootveld M.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To explore the molecular composition and antioxidant status of four natural (unrefined) cod liver oil (CLO) products, three of which (Products 1–3) were non-fermented, whilst one (Product 4) was isolated from pre-fermented cod livers, and hence was naturally antioxidant-fortified. Potential antioxidants and aldehyde-scavenging agents were determined by recommended and/or 1H NMR methods; peroxyl radical-specific oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values were measured fluorimetrically. The activities of such antioxidants were also investigated by assessing the susceptibilities/resistivities of these CLOs to thermo-oxidation by 1H NMR analysis, which monitored the time-dependent evolution of aldehydic lipid oxidation products at 180 °C.

Results

Product 4 displayed much higher, albeit variable ORAC values (mean ± SEM 91.4 ± 19.5 mmol. trolox equivalents/kg) than those of Products 1–3, an observation arising from significant levels of peroxidation-blocking and/or aldehyde-consuming collagenous polypeptides/peptides, flavonones, biogenic amines, total phenolics, tannins, and ammoniacal agents therein. All of these agents were undetectable in Products 1–3. Quantitative considerations indicated that collagenous gel agents (present at ca. 1.5% (w/w)) were the most powerful Product 4 antioxidants. Significantly lower levels of aldehydes were generated in this product when exposed to thermal-stressing episodes. Results confirmed the enhanced peroxidative resistivity of a pre-fermented, antioxidant-rich natural CLO over those of corresponding non-fermented products. Product 4: Green Pasture Blue Ice™ fermented cod liver oil.
Genome-wide identification and molecular evolution analysis of BPA genes in green plants
Authors: Zhang Xiong , Ai Gan , Wang Xiaodan , Peng Hao , Yin Zhiyuan , Dou Daolong
Published: February 2020

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling plays a central role in plant immune response. BPAs, referred to as binding partner 1 of accelerated cell death 11 (ACD11) (BPA1) and BPA1-like proteins, regulate ROS-mediated defense responses in Arabidopsis thaliana. However, their distribution and evolutionary characteristics in the plant lineage remain unexplored. In this study, we demonstrated that most BPA genes form a plant-specific family with expansion events observed. We found that BPA and ACD11 genes co-exist in all land plants, suggesting that this immune regulatory module may originate at the early stage of land plant emergence and contribute to their colonization. Angiosperm BPAs can be classified into four distinct groups (I-IV) in our analysis. Domain organization and motif composition are highly conserved within each group but divergent across different groups. In certain species, BPAs undergo complex alternative splicing, suggesting their regulatory and functional divergence. The protein-protein interaction network we constructed predicted additional acting partners of BPAs. The yeast two-hybrid assay revealed 15 BPA interaction pairs forming homo- or hetero-dimers. Taken together, our results provide the first synopsis of BPA evolutionary pattern and adaptations to green plant colonization.
Multiphysics anomaly map: A new data fusion workflow for geophysical interpretation
Authors: Lyrio Julio Cesar S. O. , Menezes Paulo T. L. , Correa Jorlivan L. , Viana Adriano R.
Published: February 2020

When collecting and processing geophysical data for exploration, the same geologic feature can generate a different response for each rock property being targeted. Typically, the units of these responses may differ by several orders of magnitude; therefore, the combination of geophysical data in integrated interpretation is not a straightforward process and cannot be performed by visual inspection only. The multiphysics anomaly map (MAM) that we have developed is a data fusion solution that consists of a spatial representation of the correlation between anomalies detected with different geophysical methods. In the MAM, we mathematically process geophysical data such as seismic attributes, gravity, magnetic, and resistivity before combining them in a single map. In each data set, anomalous regions of interest, which are problem-dependent, are selected by the interpreter. Selected anomalies are highlighted through the use of a logistic function, which is specially designed to clip large magnitudes and rescale the range of values, increasing the discrimination of anomalies. The resulting anomalies, named logistic anomalies, represent regions of large probabilities of target occurrence. This new solution highlights areas where individual interpretations of different geophysical methods correlate, increasing the confidence in the interpretation. We determine the effectiveness of our MAM with application to real data from onshore and offshore Brazil. In the onshore Recôncavo Basin, the MAM allows the interpreter to identify a channel where a drilled well found the largest sandstone thickness on the area. In a second example, from offshore Sergipe-Alagoas Basin, the MAM helps differentiate between a dry and an oil-bearing channel previously outlined in seismic data. Therefore, these outcomes indicate that the MAM is a valid interpretation tool that we believe can be applied to a wide range of geologic problems.
Health Assessment of the Liquidators of the Consequences of the Chernobyl Accident – Workers of the Nuclear Industry of Russia and Residents of the Moscow Region
Authors: Tukov A. , Prokhorova O. , Orlov Yu. , Talalaeva T. , Markova E. , Balkanov A. , Bushmanova T.
Published: February 2020

Purpose: A comparative analysis of the health of the liquidators of the consequences of the Chernobyl accident, employees of enterprises and enterprises of the nuclear industry, and residents of the Moscow region. Material and methods: The information bases of the Industrial Register of Persons Exposed to Radiation from the Chernobyl Accident and the Register of the Liquidators of the Consequences of the Chernobyl NPP Residents of the Moscow Region were used in the work. The development of the material was carried out according to the total morbidity and mortality rates of men + women in 2017 by disease classes (ICD-10). Statistical processing of the material was carried out in the Excel system; morbidity, mortality, their error, indicator structure (%), ratio indicator and reliability of the difference in indicators were calculated (p = 0.05 %). Results: The results of the study showed that the incidence of some diseases is higher among the liquidators of the consequences of the Chernobyl accident – residents of the Moscow region: incidence of diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (ratio 2.0), urogenital system (ratio 1.7). There was a higher mortality from diseases of the digestive system among the liquidators of the consequences of the Chernobyl accident – residents of the Moscow region (ratio 1.8). Conclusion: The difference in the health indicators of the studied cohorts can be explained by the difference in their age structure and the difference in dispensary observation. The need for further observation of this cohort of individuals to increase the power of the study is shown.
Brain Tumors and Cell EMF Radiobiological Criteria for Assessment Hazardous Population
Authors: Samoylov A. , Grigor'ev Yuriy
Published: February 2020

Over the past ten years, the possibility of developing long-term consequences, in particular brain cancer in mobile phone users, has been actively discussed among the world scientific community. A number of international organizations still have the view that there is no absolute evidence for this. However, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organization (WHO) issued an official press release No. 208 of May 31, 2011, which classified radio frequency electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to the public (Group 2B), which is associated with the use of a mobile phone. This decision was based on the increased risk of developing glioma brain cancer, high malignancy brain cancer.
The IARC decision was preceded by a very long period of scientific confrontation. However, Russian radiobiologists predicted the possibility of developing brain tumors, auditory and vestibular analyzers.
Two classical experiments conducted in the USA (2016) and Italy (2018) – total irradiation of animals for two years or throughout their life from the perinatal period to their natural death, strengthened the opinion of most scientists about the possibility of developing a tumor process with prolonged exposure to RF EMF .
The article discusses the risks of developing brain cancer in users of mobile phones in the early stages of the development of cellular communications. No corresponding correlation was obtained. Further, the results of epidemiological studies obtained in a number of countries (USA, Sweden, Great Britain, Finland) were analyzed during the period of mass use of cellular communications by all segments of the population, including children.
Until now, studies have not been conducted by the international scientific community to justify standards, taking into account the local effects of cellular EMF on the user’s brain. There is no corresponding scientific base. In our opinion, the population is at high risk. We consider it necessary to inform the population about the possible danger of developing a brain tumor. There are serious reasons to strengthen preventive measures aimed at reducing the electromagnetic effect on the population.
Early diagnosis and prevention of complications of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Banadyga A. , Banadyha N. , Banadyga S.
Published: February 2020

In order to make correct diagnosis of acute pancreatitis (AP) and prevention of complications, especially infected pancreatic necrosis (IPN), there were made a wide range of examinations of people with abdominal pain and appropriate anamnesis. Clinical, laboratory and instrumental examination methods were carried out in dynamics during the first 5-7 days of illness. Attention was paid to some laboratory methods (levels of procalcitonin (PCT), amylase, diastasis, ALT, AST) due to results of correlation analysis in our previous researches.