bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatial phylogenetics of the Chinese angiosperm flora provides insights into endemism and conservation
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Xia , Ye Jian-Fei , Laffan Shawn W. , Mishler Brent D. , Thornhill Andrew H. , Lu Li-Min , Mao Ling-Feng , Liu Bing , Chen You-Hua , Lu An-Ming , Miller Joseph T. , Chen Zhi-Duan 
Published: January 2020

Abstract

Background: The flora of China is well known for its high diversity and endemism. Identifying centers of endemism and designating conservation priorities are essential goals for biodiversity studies. We implemented a spatial phylogenetics analysis of the Chinese angiosperm flora at the generic level to identify centers of neo- and paleo-endemism. Phylogenetic endemism (PE) centers were compared with taxonomic endemism centers, and their implications for conservation were examined.Results: (1) The majority of grid cells in China with significant PE were mixed- or paleo-endemism. The PE centers were mainly located in the mountainous regions. (2) Nine geographic centers of endemism were identified for 3,513 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Four of these, found in northern and western China, were recognized for the first time. (3) Arid and semiarid regions were commonly linked to centers of significant PE, as has been found in other spatial phylogenetics studies worldwide. (4) Six high-priority conservation gaps were detected by overlaying the boundaries of China’s nature reserves on these centers of endemism.Conclusions: Mountainous regions are the “museums” and “cradles” for Chinese angiosperms, including both the mountains of southern and northern China. The areas we highlight as priorities are important for broad-scale conservation planning, especially in the context of evolutionary history preservation.
First epidemiological survey of Angiostrongylus vasorum in domestic dogs from Spain
Authors: Carretón Elena , Morchón Rodrigo , Falcón-Cordón Yaiza , Matos Jorge , Costa-Rodríguez Noemí , Montoya-Alonso José ALberto 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Angiostrongylus vasorum is the causative agent of canine angiostrongylosis, a disease that mainly affects domestic dogs and others wild carnivores. In Europe, the number of infected animals is increasing, being mainly located in central and southern countries. In Spain, several studies have reported high prevalences of A. vasorum in wild animals. However, there are no studies that address the current situation and distribution of the disease in domestic dogs in the country. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of A. vasorum in different areas of Spain. Methods: Between November 2018 and October 2019, blood was sampled from a total of 2024 domestic dogs from 6 eco-epidemiological zones of Spain with climates that favour the presence of competent gastropod mollusks, and tested for the presence of A. vasorum circulating antigens using Angio Detect TM . All included dogs lived outdoors or had regular access to areas with vegetation. Results: The prevalence of canine angiostrongylosis in the studied areas of Spain was 1.73%. No differences were found between males and females. By age, significant higher prevalances were found in dogs younger than 4 years. By eco-epidemiological areas, the highest prevalences were obtained in the north (2.74%) and northwest (1.86%) of Spain, and the lowest was described in the western area (0.93%). Conclusions: The prevalence obtained can be considered high and demonstrates the presence of canine angiostrongylosis in Spain, in those areas where infected wild animals have been described and where climatic conditions are favourable for the establishment of the disease. Prophylactic measures should be prescribed for dogs at risk of infection and veterinarians should be aware of the importance of this disease.
Comparison Of Transversus Abdominis Plan Block And Quadratus Lumborum Block For Postoerative Pain Control Following Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Kacan Merve , Gulec Handan , kosar berrin , ilhan seda , Horasanli Eyup 
Published: January 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND To compare Quadratus Lumborum Block (QLB) and Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) blocks for postoperative pain control following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Study and Design Prospective randomized head-to-head clinical trial. Methods A total of 60 patients who were set to undergo elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly separated into two groups. QLB was preoperatively applied to 30 patients and TAP block was also applied to 30 patients. A record was made of the intraoperative additional fentanyl dose, and at postoperative 0-1-2-4-6-12-24 hours, records were made of cumulative morphine consumption, number of morphine requests, VAS values, shoulder pain, heartrate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, SpO2, sedation score (Ramsey scale), itching, nausea and vomiting, respiratory depression, and other complications. Results In the examination of intraoperative additional fentanyl use, there was no requirement for additional fentanyl in 86.7% of the QLB group, while in 60% of the TAP group, there was seen to be at least one dose of additional fentanyl required. At all timepoints between 0 and 24 hours postoperatively, the cumulative morphine requests and morphine consumption values were significantly lower in the QLB group than in the TAP group. No statistically significant difference was determined between the groups with respect to nausea, vomiting, sedation, and itching as morphine-related side effects. Conclusion Morphine consumption was significantly lower in patients who underwent QLB procedure at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours compared to the TAP group. In general, effective analgesia was provided by both methods, but more effective analgesia was determined to have been provided in the QLB group compared to the TAP group, and thus QLB can be preferable to TAP.
Virtual reality on motor anticipation and hand function in patients with subacute stroke : A study on movement-related potential.
Authors: Chen Ling , Chen Yi , Lo Wai Leung Ambrose 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Impaired cognitive ability to anticipate the required control may affect functional recovery. The cortical excitability of task related motor anticipation for upper limb movement induced by virtual reality (VR) training is unknown. Aims: To investigate the changes of motor anticipation, cortical excitability and upper limb function induced by VR training in subacute stroke survivors.Methods: Upper limb hemiparesis resulting from the first occurrence of stroke within 1 to 6 months were recruited. Participants were randomly allocated to conventional therapy or VR intervention. Electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) were simultaneously recorded during parlmar grasp motion. Outcome measures of contingent negative variation (CNV) latency, mean peak amplitude, electromyography (EMG) reaction time, Upper Limb Fugl-Meyer Assessment (UL-FMA) and the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) were recorded pre and post intervention. The EEG and EMG differences between the two groups were assessed by mixed model ANOVA (p=0.05). The differences in UL-FMA and ARAT were assessed Wilcoxon signed-rank test (p=0.05). Results: The reduction in EMG reaction time difference, CNV latency and mean peak amplitude were significantly lower in the VR group than the control group when executing movement with the paretic hand. ARAT and UL-FMA scores were significantly higher in the VR group than the control group post intervention. Conclusions: The findings indicated a reduction in brain computational demand during palmar grasp task. Improvements in clinical function in the VR group suggested that VR intervention may be more beneficial in improving upper limb function patients with subacute stroke. Improvement in upper limb function may be related to improvement of the neural anticipatory process.
What are the effects of six month personalized endurance training on work ability in middle-aged sedentary women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Stenner Hedwig Theda , Eigendorf Julian , Kerling Arno , Kück Momme , Hanke Alexander A. , Boyen Johanna , Nelius Anne-Katrin , Melk Anette , Boethig Dietmar , Bara Christoph , Hilfiker Andres , Berliner Dominik , Bauersachs Johann , Hilfker-Kleiner Denise , Eberhard Jörg , Stiesch Meike , Schippert Cordula , Haverich Axel , Tegtbur Uwe , Haufe Sven 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
BackgroundTo test the effects of guided endurance training on work ability in middle-aged female hospital workers of various occupations. Methods We randomized 265 healthy, sedentary, middle-aged women (45-65 years) to an endurance training group (EG 210 min/week) or a wait-list control group (CG). At baseline and at 6-month follow-up, we assessed work ability (Work Ability Index [WAI]), physical activity (Freiburger activity questionnaire) and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) by cardiopulmonary exercise testing. To examine the influence of baseline work ability, participants were divided into poor-moderate (WAI 1, 7-36 points, n=83), good (WAI 2, 37-43 points, n=136) and excellent (WAI 3, 44-49 points, n=46) WAI subgroups.ResultsCardiorespiratory fitness improved significantly after 6 months in the EG but not in the CG. The WAI total score increased significantly in the EG (38.3±5.0 to 39.8±4.9 points) but not in the CG (39.4±4.7 to 39.3±4.9 points), with a significant difference between groups (p<0.01). In the EG, only the poor-moderate subgroup (WAI 1, 33.0±2.9 to 36.6±4.8 points, p<0.05) increased the WAI total score, with this increase being significantly higher compared to the good (WAI 2, 40.2±2.1 to, 40.4±3.7 points) and excellent (WAI 3, 45.6±1.5 to 45.7±1.8 points) subgroup.ConclusionsA 6-month guided exercise training intervention significantly increases cardiorespiratory fitness with concomitant improvements in work ability in middle-aged previously sedentary hospital employees. Women with low baseline work ability seem to particularly benefit from the intervention, which implies that similar interventions may be particularly beneficial for this group of individuals.
Prevalence and determinants of undernutrition among children of local farmers in central Malawi
Authors: Chilanga Emmanuel 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Child undernutrition is a public health problem in Malawi. In 2015, about 23% of child mortality was linked to the phenomenon. Child undernutrition is more prevalent in rural areas and there is limited data to inform rural-specific programs. The aims of this study are to examine the prevalence and risk factors of undernutrition among 0-59 months-old children in rural central Malawi. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used. A total of 538 child/mother dyads were systematically selected from postnatal clinics. Anthropometric assessment techniques and socio-demographic questionnaire was used to collect data. Child Z-scores for anthropometric data were calculated using World Health Organization’s (WHO) anthro v3.2.2. Logistic regressions were used to determine correlates of undernutrition. Results The rates of stunting, underweight, and wasting were 42%, 11%, and 3%, respectively. In multivariable logistic regression models, household limited access to safe water, and maternal exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) were risk factors of child stunting ( OR =1.72, CI : 1.13-2.61) and ( OR =1.505, CI : 1.001-2.261) respectively. Child deworming, born at a low weight, and household food insecurity were some of risk factors of child underweight ( OR = 2.14, CI: 1.18-3.89), ( OR = 2.41, CI : 1.23-4.71), and ( OR = 1.89, CI : 1.01-3.51) respectively. Households that were near domestic water supply had low risk of registering wasted children than households that were far from water supply ( OR = 0.18, CI: 0.41-0.79). Conclusions Only the prevalence of child stunting is greater in central Malawi compared to national level. This study suggest that programs that can promote access to potable water, food security, child deworming, improving child birth weight, and reduction of IPV against mothers can reduce the risk of child undernutrition.
Genomic characterization of fecal microbial communities in severely sick humans and broiler chickens using next generation sequencing
Authors: Afridi Ome Kalsoom , Ali Johar , Chang Jeong Ho 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
BackgroundMicrobiota plays an important role in food safety and its alteration poses a serious threat to humans. Comparative microbiome profiling using next-generation sequencing (NGS) enabled the understanding of microbial diversity and similarity between different species. In this study, we used NGS to profile the fecal microbiota of sick human and broiler chickens. A total of 26 fecal samples were collected from severely sick human subjects (n= 13) and broiler chickens (n=13) with similar symptoms.ResultsThe total number of microbial species detected in broiler chickens fecal microbiota was higher than that of humans. Phylum Proteobacteria was the most abundant in both human and broiler chickens fecal microbiota while Tenericutes was found to be least abundant in both species. Phylum Actinobacteria was found only in the human fecal microbiota. In both humans and broiler chickens, E.coli was found to be phylogenetically related suggesting a microbial association between both species.ConclusionNGS based taxonomic profiling revealed the association of microbial dysbiosis with extreme sickness in both humans and broiler chickens. The dominance of phylum Proteobacteria in both the species ascertains their altered gut microbiota. Both human and broiler chickens microbial communities were found to be genetically related indicating horizontal transfer of microbes between the two species.
Discussion on rationality of administration of Angong Niuhuang Pills from pharmacological and toxicological perspectives
Authors: Chen Jianzhao , Chai Yushuang , He Yuanfeng , Huang Jisheng , Wan Ting , Lu Yuan , Peng Zilun , Li Wenjuan , Ning Na , Guo Qiuping 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Investigate the different treatment course of ANP from pharmacology and toxicology to provide scientific basis for clinic use. Method: In pharmacology study, cerebral ischemia-reperfusion model was made; rats were divided into six groups, Sham, model, aspirin 25 mg/kg, ANP 270 mg/kg (1 day, 4 days and 7 days) groups. Rats were fed for 30 days. Neurological function, cerebral infraction volume, brain histopathology, cytokines were detected; in toxicology study, rats were divided into four groups, normal control, ANP (550, 1640, 4910 mg/kg) group. ANP was daily administered by gavage for 30 days. Detection indicators included appearance, behavior, excrement character, food-intake, body weight, hematological parameters, etc. In addition, biomarkers such as TBA, GSTα, Cystatin C, clusterin, GSH, S-100B and MBP were also detected. Result: In pharmacology study, compared with model group, the neurological function scores of ANP 270mg/kg (1 day, 4 days and 7 days) were decreased (P<0.11 or P<0.05); the volume of ANP 270mg/kg (1 day and 7 days) were decreased (P<0.05); the R value of ANP 270mg/kg (1 day, 4 days and 7 days) groups were decreased (P<0.11 or P<0.05); the serum content of IL-1β, TNFα and NO of ANP 270 mg/kg(1 day, 4 days and 7 days) groups were decreased (P< 0.05); the brain content of IL-1β and NO of ANP 270 mg/kg(1 day, 4 days and 7 days) groups were decreased (P<0.05). In toxicology study, no mortality, ophthalmic abnormalities were identified. Compared with normal control group, body weights were significantly lower in ANP 4910 mg/kg group; TBA was significantly increased in ANP 4910mg/kg group; liver organ coefficient of female rats of ANP 4910 mg/kg group was increased (P < 0.05); kidney organ coefficient of male rats of ANP 1640mg/kg, 4910 mg/kg groups were increased (P < 0.05), these all recovered after drug withdraw for 8 weeks. Conclusion: The effect of ANP 270 mg/kg (7 days) was much better than ANP (1 day and 4 days). ANP 550mg/kg is non toxicity dose. So, ANP is taken one pill peer day for 7 days is safety and effective, it can be used as the scientific basis for clinic use.
Low serum triglyceride response to a high-fat meal is associated with elevated postprandial IL-17 and discriminative gut bacterial features.
Authors: Wilson Stephanie M , Maes Adam P. , Peach Jesse T. , Bothner Brian , Yeoman Carl J. , Walk Seth T. , Miles Mary P. 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Postprandial lipemia stimulates proinflammatory mediators and is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Chronic disease and diet are known to influence the gut microbial community in ways that alter the availability of bioactive compounds capable of influencing the host. The purpose of this study was to identify gut microbiome taxa and inflammatory cytokines differentiating individuals with lower and higher postprandial triglyceridemia. Methods A high-fat meal (43.1% fat) was given to 40 healthy, overweight and obese adults to assess the serum triglyceride response in the immediate four-hour postprandial period. Participants were categorized into two groups (high and low) based on serum triglyceride responses. We measured blood lipids, inflammatory cytokines, fat mass, visceral adiposity and used 16S rRNA target amplicon sequencing to identify microbial taxa in human fecal samples distinguishing the two groups. The gut microbiome was assessed using unconstrained ordination, followed by a high-dimensional class comparison to determine discriminative microbial features of the postprandial triglyceride response (ppTG). ResultsHigh ppTG responders had higher body mass index, visceral adiposity, and fasting serum cholesterol levels than low responders and had a decreased postprandial IL-17 response to the high-fat meal. The overall gut microbiome did not cluster by ppTG response but were found to have four discriminative bacterial features between high and low ppTG. Lower relative abundance of Clostridium Cluster XIVa and higher relative abundance of Pasteurellaceae, Alistipes , and Prevotella was observed in low ppTG relative to high ppTG. Conclusions Our findings suggest that specific gut microbial taxa involved in short-chain fatty acid production can discriminate the postprandial triglyceride response in overweight and obese adults. These findings may have implications in how we develop microbial therapies and choose to monitor and treat individuals with hypertriglyceridemia or who may have an increased risk of chronic disease.
A 16S ribosomal RNA TaqMan real-time reverse transcription PCR for specific detection of Salmonella in blood
Authors: Rutanga Jean Pierre , Block Tessa de , Vandelannoote Koen , Puyvelde Sandra Van , Cafmeyer Josephine , Hardy Liselotte , Muvunyi Claude Mambo , Jacobs Jan , Deborggraeve Stijn 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background : The Gram -negative bacterium Salmonella enterica is an important human pathogen causing a huge public health burden worldwide. Reference diagnosis of Salmonella bloodstream infections (BSI) in patients is based on in vitro blood culture followed by biochemical and serotype identification. We have developed a TaqMan real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) assay for the specific detection of Salmonella 16S rRNA molecules. The specificity was confirmed on a bacterial test panel grown in 5 ml BBL TM culture medium broth, comprising of six Salmonella enterica serovars (Typhi, Paratyphi A, Typhimurium, Enteritidis, Heidelberg and Weltevreden) and 10 non- Salmonella bacterial species that are known to cause human BSI.Results : The limit of detection (LOD) of the assay in serial dilutions of purified Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium RNA was 40 pg RNA per reaction, corresponding to ~2500 colony forming units (CFU). When applied directly in blood experimentally spiked with Salmonella Typhimurium, the assay showed an LOD of 10 5 CFU/ml which is 100x more sensitive than 16S rDNA detection using the same primers and probe set. In 10 ml whole blood spiked with Salmonella Typhimurium at 5 CFU/ml followed by incubation in an automatic blood culture instrument, the assay detected 16S rRNA after 10 hours incubation compared to 12 hours for 16S rDNA detection.Conclusion : Although prior in vitro incubation of blood samples is required, we here delivered the proof-of-concept of specific detection of Salmonella in clinical specimens by targeting its 16S rRNA molecule.
AMPK/mTOR-mediated therapeutic effect of metformin on myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in diabetic rat
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhang Xiaochun , Guan Lihua , Zhou Daxin , Ge Junbo 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The autophagy associated signalling pathways such as AMPK/mTOR previously were suggested to play a crucial role in protecting from ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of metformin (DMBG) on autophagy during myocardial IRI with diabetes mellitus (DM). METHODS: The DM rat model was established using streptozocin, and further induced ischemia model via transitory ligation of the left anterior coronary artery and following reperfusion. The model rats were treated with 400 mg/kg/day DMBG for one week. Autophagosomes were investigated using transmission electron microscopy. Autophagy-associated signalling pathways were detected by western blot. RESULTS: The myocardial infarct size was shown to significantly increase in the DM rats exposed to IRI compared to negative control, but decrease in DMBG treated. The mature autophagosomes were elevated in infarction and marginal zones of DM+IRI+DMBG compared to DM+IRI. Furthermore, the increasing protein levels of LC3-II, BECLIN 1, autophagy related 5 (ATG5) and AMP-activated protein kinase suggested activated autophagy-associated intracellular signalling AMPK and mTOR pathways upon DMBG treated. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, the outcomes demonstrated that DMBG could activate autophagy process to provide a cardio-protective effect against DM induced myocardial IRI.
Revisiting Sequential Attributable fractions
Authors: Ferguson John , O'Connell Maurice , O'Donnell Martin 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Eide and Gefeller [1] introduced the concepts of sequential and average attributable fractions as methods to partition the risk of disease to differing exposures. In particular, sequential attributable fractions are interpreted in terms of an incremental reduction in disease prevalence associated with removing a particular risk factor from the population, having removed other risk factors. Clearly, both concepts are causal entities, but are not usually estimated within a causal inference framework.Methods: We propose causal definitions of sequential and average attributable fractions using the potential outcomes framework. To estimate these quantities in practice, we model exposure-exposure and exposure-disease interrelationships using a causal Bayesian network, assuming no unobserved variables. This allows us to model not only the direct impact of removing a risk factor on disease, but also the indirect impact through the effect on the prevalence of causally downstream risk factors that are typically ignored when calculating sequential and average attributable fractions. The procedure for calculating sequential attributable fractions involves repeated applications of Pearl’s do-operator over a fitted Bayesian network, and simulation from the resulting joint probability distributions.Results: The methods are applied to the INTERSTROKE study, which was designed to quantify disease burden attributable to the major risk factors for stroke. The resulting sequential and average attributable fractions are compared to results to a prior estimation approach which uses a single logistic model and which does not properly account for differing causal pathways.Conclusions: In contrast to estimation using a single regression model, the proposed approaches allow consistent estimation of sequential, joint and average attributable fractions under general causal structures.