bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification and fine mapping of a novel qGR6.2 locus controlling rice salt tolerance during seed germination
Authors: Zeng Peng , Zhu Peiwen , Qian Luofeng , Lin Zefeng , Qian Xumei , Mi Yuxin , Dong Shinan , Aronsson Henrik , Zhang Hongsheng , Cheng Jinping 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
The rice growth is strongly affected by salt stress. When exposed to high salt stress, seed germination and seedling establishment are significantly inhibited. Particularly, with the promotion of rice direct-seeding technology in Asia, improving rice salt tolerance during seed germination is of great importance for rice breeding. In this study, an indica rice landrace Wujiaozhan (WJZ) showed significant salt tolerance during seed germination. The dynamic process of seed germination at 300 mM NaCl was observed via the germination rate (GR), seedling percentage (SP), and germination index (GI) from the progeny by crossing WJZ with the salt-sensitive Nipponbare (Nip). By QTL mapping, sixteen quantitative trait loci (QTLs) related to salt-tolerance were detected via a BC1F2 population, including six QTLs for the GR, eight QTLs for the SP, and two QTLs for the GI. Of them, four QTLs, qGR6.1, qGR6.2, qGR10 and qSP10.1, were expressed continuously, especially qGR6.2 and qGR10. Furthermore, twelve significant associated simple sequence repeats (SSR) markers were detected in the F2 population by bulked segregant analysis (BSA). Four SSR markers (RM588, RM190, RM276 and RM5493) were closed to qGR6.1, qGR6.2, qGR6.3, qSP6.1, qSP6.2, qGI6 and qSP8.1 identified by QTL mapping. The major qGR6.2 on chromosome 6 was confirmed via the BC2F2 population, which explained more than 20% phenotype variation of the GR. Fine mapping results displayed that qGR6.2 was narrowed down to a 65.9 kb region between the Z654 and Z619 markers, with eleven candidate genes predicted. Based on the microarray database, six genes (LOC_Os06g10650, LOC_Os06g10660, LOC_Os06g10690, LOC_Os06g10710, LOC_Os06g10730 and LOC_Os06g10750) were differentially expressed after seed imbibition or salt stress. RT-qPCR showed that two genes (LOC_Os06g10650 and LOC_Os06g10750) were significantly induced by salt stress and had different expression patterns in two parents during seed germination.
Daily variations of gut microbial translocation markers in ART-treated HIV-infected people
Authors: Ouyang Jing , Isnard Stéphane , Lin John , Fombuena Brandon , Chatterjee Debashree , Salinas Tomas Raul Wiche , Planas Delphine , Cattin Amelie , Fert Augustine , Gabriel Etiene Moreira , Marchand Laurence Raymond , Zhang Yonglong , Finkelman Malcolm , Chen Yaokai , Kaufmann Daniel E. , Cermakian Nicolas , Ancuta Petronela , Routy Jean-Pierre 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Gut microbial translocation and increased intestinal barrier permeability are significant contributors to inflammatory non-AIDS co-morbidities in people living with HIV (PLWH). However, daily variations of markers of bacterial and fungal translocation along with intestinal damage are not characterized yet. Herein, we assessed the variation of these markers over 24 hours in PLWH receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in a well-controlled environment. Methods A total of 11 male ART-treated PLWH were recruited for the study. Blood samples were collected every 4 hours over 24 hours before snacks/meals from 8:00 in the morning to 8:00 the next day. All participants consumed similar meals at set times, and had a comparable amount of sleep, physical exercise and light exposure. Plasma levels of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and fungal (1→3)-β-D-Glucan (BDG) translocation markers, along with markers of intestinal damage fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP) and regenerating islet-derived protein-3α (REG3α) were assessed by ELISA or the fungitell assay. Results Plasma levels of BDG and REG3α were stable during the day. In contrast, plasma levels of LPS and I-FABP were subject to daily variations, with the lowest levels at 12:00 and 16:00, respectively, and the highest levels at 00:00 and 4:00-8:00, respectively. Conclusions Conversely to the fungal translocation marker BDG and the gut damage marker REG3α, time of blood collection matters for the proper evaluation for LPS and I-FABP as markers for the risk of inflammatory non-AIDS co-morbidities. These insights are instrumental for orienting clinical investigations in PLWH.
The role of the urotherapist in the care of patients with pelvic floor disorders
Authors: Geissbuhler Verena , Forst Susanne , Werner Matthias , Schoenenberger Cora Ann , Berner Ruth , Betschart Cornelia 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: To improve the management of healthcare requirements of pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) in adult patients, interprofessional collaborations are emerging. The aim of this study is to describe and evaluate the activities of a urotherapist in adult patients with PFDs. Methods: The prospective observational study was carried out at the Department of ObGyn at the Cantonal Hospital Winterthur/Switzerland, from July 2016 to June 2018. The activities of the urotherapist were assessed with respect to parameters such as, number of consultations, type of counselling, time frame of consultations and therapy as well patient satisfaction. Demographic and clinical data were collected by self-administered questionnaires and electronic medical data systems. Results: 1709 patients were examined by urogynecologists. Of these patients, 514 (30%) were subsequently referred to a urotherapist. 58% of the 514 patients were over 65 years old. The most common PFDs were complaints about increased bladder sensation such as an overactive bladder, recurrent urinary tract infections, chronic cystitis and pelvic pain syndrome in 221 patients (43%); the second most common was pelvic organ prolapse in 151 patients (29%). The average number of urotherapist consultations per patient was 3 . In the group with >5 consultations, 59% were patients with increased bladder sensation. The most common type of consultation was phone counselling (59% of all activities). Conclusions: Increased bladder sensation related complaints are chronic problems that result in the highest numbers of urotherapist consultations. Interprofessional collaborations between urotherapist, as a specialist nurse, and urogynecologist should be implemented in urogynecological units and further developed in the future.
Pro- and anti-inflammatory immune response profiling prevents severe malaria among Nigerians infected with Plasmodium falciparum: the future for malaria vaccines and therapeutics.
Authors: OKPOKOR DANIEL OSAGIE , PETER ASAGA MAC , Olusola Ajibaye , Dakul Anthony Danaan 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Available evidence indicates that the various stages of the malaria parasite life cycle have specific immune responses. The pro-inflammatory cytokines tend to play an important role in preventing malaria and killing the parasites. Furthermore, the relative levels of pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines are essential mediators of malaria anemia production and outcomes. Natural human immune responses to malaria recognize extracellular sporozoites and merozoites, both of which have surface-exposed antigens, and which are currently being developed for various vaccines. Methods A total of four hundred sixty- two (462) participants were tested for Plasmodium falciparum. The procedure employed were parasite staining using World Health Organization parasitology laboratory protocol [Microscopy] of Giemsa staining and Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]. Results The subjects in this study showed high levels of INF-γ and TNF-α which decreases with increased malaria severity and high parasite density. These results suggest that INF-γ cytokine and TNF-α may contribute to protection against severe malaria anaemia and parasite clearance. Conversely, infected participants showed higher levels of IL-10, which decreases with severe malaria parasite, furthermore IL-10 levels correlated with parasite density. These findings suggest that higher levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines, especially IL-10 levels may contribute to pathogenesis of complicated malaria by inhibiting the INF-γ and TNF-α production. Conclusion Molecular biological and other serological analysis are needed to elucidate the implication of these cytokines and other pro-inflammatory cytokines as IL-17, IL-21 and IL-22 in the responses to malaria and consequently their involvement in malaria vaccine construct/development as well as other therapeutics for the treatment and elimination of the malaria parasite in our environment.
Knowledge, Practices, and barriers to accurate blood pressure measurement procedure among Nurses Caring Cancer Patients under Anthracycline Chemotherapy in Tanzania: Implication of the Neumans theory and the Theory of planned behavior.
Authors: Vicent Bankanie , Lilngulu Athanas , Yinglan Li 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Patients under anthracycline chemotherapy are at risk of cardiovascular disorders, including hypertension. Error in blood pressure measurement exceeding 5mmHg may have detrimental outcomes to the patient quality of care. Studies involving nurses reveal discrepancies in knowledge and practices, which raise questions on the reliability of their BP recordings. It is not clear whether nurses taking care of these patients have sufficient knowledge and compliance regarding accurate blood pressure measurement. This study aimed at assessing knowledge, practice and associated factors regarding accurate blood pressure measurement procedures among nurses caring for cancer patients under anthracycline chemotherapy in Tanzania, guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior and Neuman’s Prevention and Intervention Theory. Methods A cross-sectional study, with a quantitative approach was conducted among 181 nurses who were conveniently sampled from various hospitals in Tanzania. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection and analysis done by using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 21. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Binary logistic regression analysis were applied. Results Based on the given 18 items to assess nurses’ knowledge of accurate blood pressure measurement, the mean knowledge score was 8.6 (SD=3.6), implying poor knowledge. Those with a bachelor of Nursing and above were more knowledgeable than those with a diploma and below (AOR=2.5, 95%CI=1.281-4.914, p=0.007). Out of the maximum practice score of 40, the nurses had Mean=16 (SD=2.33) implying poor practice. Three mostly reported barriers were: Feeling unempowered, Nurses’ workload, and unconducive working environment. The results conform to the theory of planned behavior and Neuman’s Prevention and Intervention Theory. Conclusion Nurses caring for patients in anthracycline chemotherapy in Tanzania have poor knowledge and poor practice regarding accurate blood pressure measurement. Institutional programs to educate nurses about accurate blood pressure measurement may have an impact on attitude and intention to practice accurate blood pressure measurement. Considering the barriers to accurate blood pressure measurement, and the impact of unstable blood pressure and hypertension on morbidity and mortality in cancer patients at risk of cardiovascular complications, efforts are needed to overcome the barriers and maximize the quality of Blood Pressure measurement by the nurses.
Diagnosis performance of ultrasonography, dual-phase 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy, early SPECT/CT and delayed SPECT/CT in preoperative localization of parathyroid gland in secondary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Zhang Rongqin , Zhang Zhanwen , Pinbo Huang , Li Zhi , Hu Rui , Zhang Jie , Qiu Wanglin , Hu Ping 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
ObjectiveSecondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) usually need parathyroidectomy when drug regimens fail. However, obtaining an exact preoperative map of the locations of the parathyroid glands is a challenge. The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic performance of ultrasonography, dual-phase 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy, early SPECT/CT and delayed SPECT/CT in patients with SHPT.MethodsSixty patients with SHPT who were undergoing dialysis were evaluated preoperatively with ultrasonography, dual-phase 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy, early SPECT/CT and delayed SPECT/CT. Postoperative pathology served as the gold standard. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy rate were determined for each method. Spearman correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation of the hyperplastic parathyroid calcification with serum alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Results229 lesions in 60 patients were pathological confirmed to be parathyroid hyperplasia with 209 lesions in typical sites, 15 lesions in upper mediastinum and 4 lesions in the thyroid. 88.33% (53/60) patients had four lesions. US, early and delayed SPECT/CT had significantly higher sensitivity and accuracy rate (P < 0.001) than did dual-phase 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy. Furthermore, early SPECT/CT had significantly higher sensitivity (χ2 = 17.521, P < 0.001, χ2 = 35.027, P < 0.001) and accuracy rate (χ2 = 11.076, P = 0.001, χ2 = 16.289, P < 0.001) than did US and delayed SPECT/CT. In ectopic hyperplastic parathyroid, the sensitivity of early SPECT/CT (90%) was significantly higher than US (55%) and dual-phase planar (50%) (P = 0.039 and P = 0.039). Spearman correlation results showed a significant linear association between the calcification and serum PTH (r = 0.398, P = 0.002) and AKP (r = 0.415, P = 0.002).ConclusionThe ability of early SPECT/CT to detect hyperplastic parathyroid in patients with SHPT is superior to US, 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy and delayed SPECT/CT, and dual-phase SPECT/CT is not essential. Calcification of parathyroid gland is a special sign of SHPT and correlated with serum PTH and AKP.
The neutrophil enzyme myeloperoxidase directly modulates neuronal response after subarachnoid hemorrhage, a sterile injury model
Authors: Coulibaly Aminata P. , Pezuk Pinar , Varghese Paul , Gartman William , Triebwasser Danielle , Kulas Joshua A. , Liu Lei , Syed Mariam , Tvrdik Petr , Ferris Heather A , Provencio Jose Javier 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is associated with the development of delayed cognitive deficits. Neutrophil infiltration into the central nervous system (CNS) is linked to the development of these deficits after SAH. It is however unclear how neutrophil activity, direct or indirect, influences CNS function in SAH. As such, the present project aims to elucidate neutrophil factors and mechanisms mediating CNS injury and cognitive deficits after SAH. Methods: Using a murine model of SAH and mice deficient in neutrophil effector functions, we determined which neutrophil effector function is critical to the development of deficits after SAH. Also, in vitro techniques were used to elucidate whether neutrophils directly or indirectly affect neuronal function after SAH. Results: Our results show that following SAH, neutrophils infiltrate the meninges, and not the brain parenchyma. Mice lacking functional myeloperoxidase (MPO KO), a neutrophil enzyme, lack both the meningeal neutrophil infiltration and the cognitive deficits associated with SAH. The re-introduction of biologically active MPO, and its substrate hydrogen peroxide, to the cerebrospinal fluid of MPO KO mice at the time of hemorrhage restores the spatial memory deficit observed after SAH. Furthermore, MPO directly affects the function of both primary neurons and astrocytes in culture. Neurons exposed to MPO and its substrate show decreased calcium activity at baseline and after stimulation with potassium chloride. In addition, MPO and its substrate lead to significant astrocyte loss in culture, phenocopying a result observed in the brain after SAH. Conclusions: These results implicate MPO as a mediator of neuronal dysfunction in SAH through direct effect on both neurons and astrocytes. Finally, these results show that, in SAH, the activity of innate immune cells in the meninges can modulate the activity and function of the underlying brain tissue.
Production and characterization of surfactin-like biosurfactant produced by novel strain Bacillus nealsonii S2MT and it's potential for oil contaminated soil remediation
Authors: Phulpoto Irfan Ali , Yu Zhisheng , Bowen Hu , Ndayisenga Fabrice , Jinmei Li , Liang Hongxia , Qazi Muneer Ahmed 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Biosurfactants, being highly biodegradable, ecofriendly and multifunctional compounds have wide applications in various industrial sectors including environmental bioremediation. Surfactin a member of lipopeptide family which considered as one of the most powerful biosurfactant due to its environmental applications, emulsification activities as well as therapeutic properties. Therefore, the aim of this study to investigate the surfactin like biosurfactants produced by newly strain S2MT and their potential applications for soil remediation. Results In this study, a novel biosurfactant producing strain Bacillus nealsonii S2MT was investigated from the lake sediment that reduced the surface tension 34.15± 0.6 mN/m -1 with excellent emulsifying potential 55± 0.3% in kerosene oil. Additionally, the highest biosurfactant product 1300 mg/L -1 was achieved during which the composition of the culture medium was optimized through a response surface methodology (RSM). Results showed that 2% glycerol and 0.1% NH 4 NO 3 were the best carbon/nitrogen substrates for biosurfactant production. The most significant parameters such as temperature (30 °C), pH (8), agitation (100 rpm), NH 4 NO 3 (0.1%), yeast extract (0%) and NaCl (0.5%) contributed to the surface tension reduction and therefore enhancing the biosurfactant yield. Moreover, the obtained product was found to be highly stable at environmental factors such as salinity, pH and temperature variations. In addition, the biosurfactant product was chemically characterized as cyclic lipopeptide relating to surfactin-like isoforms (C 13 -C 15 ) with a thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and liquid chromatography and mass spectroscopy (LC/MS) respectively. The corresponding biosurfactant displayed 43.6± 0.08 and 46.7± 0.01% remediation of heavy engine-oil contaminated soil at 10 and 40 mg/L concentrations respectively. Conclusion This study, therefore, confirmed that the strain S2MT was not only a potential biosurfactant producer but also an efficient and environmentally acceptable candidate for soil remediation compared to synthetic compounds.
Comparison of capillary and venous blood for malaria detection using two PCR based assays in febrile patients in Sierra Leone.
Authors: Leski Tomasz , Taitt Chris Rowe , Bangura Umaru , Lahai Joseph , Lamin Joseph M. , Baio Victoria , Swaray Abdulai G. , Jacobsen Kathryn H. , Ansumana Rashid , Stenger David A. 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Malaria parasites infect over 200 million people and cause more than 400,000 deaths each year. Rapid and sensitive diagnostics are critical tools for clinical case management and public health control efforts. Both capillary and venous blood are currently used for malaria detection and while diagnostic technologies may not be equally sensitive with both materials the published data on this subject are scarce are not conclusive. Methods Paired samples of venous and capillary blood from 103 febrile individuals in Bo, Sierra Leone, were obtained between January and May 2019 and tested for the presence of Plasmodium parasites using two multiplexed PCR assays: the FilmArray-based Global Fever Panel (GFP) and the TaqMan-based Malaria Multiplex Sample Ready (MMSR) assay. Results We observed no significant differences in Plasmodium parasite detection between capillary and venous blood when using the MMSR assay. In GFP assays, however, markers for Plasmodium spp. and P. falciparum were detected at significantly higher numbers of venous samples (p<0.002 and p<0.05, respectively). The GFP assay was more sensitive than MMSR for Plasmodium spp. in both types of samples and overall more sensitive (taking all detected malaria markers into account) in venous samples only. Conclusions Malaria detection sensitivity may be higher for venous blood compared to capillary blood in case of certain targets when using PCR-based detection methods. The overall sensitivity of GFP assay was generally higher than MMSR but depended on the target and clinical material used.
In vitro synergistic potentials of novel antibacterial combination therapies against Salmonella Typhimurium and Escherichia coli
Authors: Hossain Md. Akil , Park Hae-Chul , Lee Kwang-jick , Park Sung-Won , Park Seung-Chun , Kang JeongWoo 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: The antibiotics generally used in farm animals are rapidly losing their effectiveness all over the world as bacteria develop antibiotic resistance. New strategies are needed to block the development of resistance and to prolong the life of traditional antibiotics. This study aimed to increase the efficacy of existing antibiotics by combining them with the opportunistic phenolic compounds gallic acid (GA), epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin and hamamelitannin. Fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) of phenolic compound-antibiotic combinations against Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) were determined. Based on the FICI and clinical importance, 3 combinations (GA-ampicillin, GA-ceftiofur and hamamelitannin-erythromycin) were selected to evaluate their effects on the virulence factors of these bacteria. Viabilities of Rattus norvegicus (IEC-6) cell in presence of these combination antibacterials were evaluated.Results: Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of epigallocatechin, GA and hamamelitannin found against different strains were (512–1024), (256–1024) and (512–2048) μg/mL, respectively. Synergistic effects were obtained from combinations of thiamphenicol-GA (FICI: 0.28), erythromycin-hamamelitannin (FICI: 0.38) and thiamphenicol-hamamelitannin (FICI: 0.50) against E. coli, and erythromycin-epicatechin gallate (FICI: 0.50) against S. Typhimurium. Moreover, additive effects were obtained from 33 combinations against S. Typhimurium (FICI: 0.502~0.750) and E. coli (FICI: 0.502~0.625). The time-kill assays and ultrastructural morphology showed that GA-ceftiofur, and hamamelitannin-erythromycin and GA-ampicillin combinations more efficiently inhibited the growth of S. Typhimurium and E. coli, respectively, compared to individual antibiotics. Biofilm viability and swimming and swarming motilities of S. Typhimurium in presence of GA-ceftiofur, and E. coli in presence of hamamelitannin-erythromycin and GA-ampicillin combinations were more competently inhibited than individual antimicrobials. Viabilities of IEC-6 cells were significantly enhanced by GA-ceftiofur, GA-ampicillin combinations than these antibacterials alone. Conclusions: This study suggest that GA-ceftiofur combination can be potential medication to treat S. Typhimurium-associated diarrhea and prevent S. Typhimurium-associated blood-stream infections (e.g.: fever) in farm animals. Hamamelitannin-erythromycin and GA-ampicillin combinations can be effective in restricting E. coli contamination in farm animals, and ultimately its transmission from animal to human. Further in vivo study to confirm these effects and safety profiles in farm animal should be undertaken for establishing these combinations as medications.
Nuclear Fusion Power – An Overview of History, Present and Future
Authors: Prager Stewart C. 
Published: January 2020

Summary
Fusion power offers the prospect of an almost inexhaustible source of energy for future generations, but it also presents so far insurmountable engineering challenges. The fundamental challenge is to achieve a rate of heat emitted by a fusion plasma that exceeds the rate of energy injected into the plasma. The main hope is centered on tokamak reactors and stellarators which confine deuterium-tritium plasma magnetically.