bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Anti-inflammation effects of the total saponin fraction from Dioscorea nipponica Makino on rats with gouty arthritis by influencing MAPK signalling pathway
Authors: Zhou Qi , Sun Hui Juan , Liu Shu Min , Jiang Xi Hong , Wang Qiu Yue , Zhang Shuang , Yu Dong Hua 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Dioscorea nipponica Makino is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat gouty arthritis.

Methods
Sixty male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: the normal group, model group, colchicine group (COL) and three total saponin groups (RDN) (high dose [160 mg/kg], middle dose [80 mg/kg] and low dose [40 mg/kg]). HE staining was used to detect the histopathologic changes of the synovial tissue of joint. Immunohistochemical method was used to detect the protein expressions of P-38, p-P38, JNK, p-JNK, ERK1/2, p-ERK1/2, MEK1/2, p-MEK1/2, MKK4, p-MKK4, ICAM1, VCAM1, and PPARγ in the synovial tissue of joint. Realtime PCR and WB methods were used to detect the mRNA and protein expressions of PPARγ and AdipoR2 in the synovial tissue of joint. The contents of CXCL1 and ADP in the blood serum were measured by Elisa method.

Results
Our study showed that RDN could improve the situation of the synovial tissue, reduce the protein expressions of MKK4, p-MEK1/2, p-JNK, p-ERK1/2, ICAM1. They could also decrease the content of CXCL1 and increase the content of ADP in the blood serum.

Conclusion
RDN has good effect of anti-inflammation. This is in part realized by influencing MAPK signalling pathway. It provides a new visual angle to reveal the mechanism of RDN to treat GA.
Developing theory-informed knowledge translation strategies to facilitate the use of patient-reported outcome measures in interdisciplinary low back pain clinical practices in Quebec: mixed methods study
Authors: Eilayyan Owis , Visca Regina , Zidarov Diana , Ware Patrick , Bussières André , Ahmed Sara 
Published: August 2020

AbstractBackgroundThere is a growing interest among healthcare providers (HCPs) to use Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in clinical care. PROMs can help improve patient-care provider communication and may be used to inform the need for interdisciplinary care for Low Back Pain (LBP). However, PROM implementation to support clinical decision-making is complex and requires knowledge translation (KT) interventions that will overcome barriers to using PROMs in interdisciplinary clinical settings.Objectivesto 1) identify potential barriers and enablers to using PROMs in primary care LBP clinical practice from the perspective of healthcare team members, and 2) develop a theory-based tailored KT intervention to facilitate the use of PROMs in interdisciplinary clinical practice.MethodsWe invited 25 HCPs working in an interdisciplinary team to complete a self-administered survey designed based on the Theoretical Domain Framework (TDF) to identify the barriers and enablers to using PROM scores in LBP clinical practice. The questionnaire consisted of 30 questions rated on a 5-point Likert scale (quantitative) and included open-ended questions (qualitative). Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed to estimate the frequency of barriers and enablers. Findings were then reviewed by a panel of four KT experts who mapped behaviour change techniques to barriers identified that informed the design of a KT intervention.ResultsEighteen HCPs responded to the survey. Factors identified as likely to restrict the use of PROM scores includedknowledge, skills, social/professional role and identity, goals, decision processes, beliefs about consequences, environmental context and resources, behavioural regulation,andsocial influence. A multi-component evidence-based KT intervention was proposed by the panel of experts to address these barriers: a training workshop; educational materials; and use of PROM score reports to HCPs that were all delivered by an opinion leader.ConclusionThe routine use of PROMs in clinical practice may optimize the quality of LBP care and improve patients’ outcomes. The proposed multi-component KT intervention is expected to be an effective strategy to increase HCPs’ ability to integrate PROMs into clinical decision-making and to engage patients in their care.
Hyperthyroidism is associated with breast cancer risk and mammographic and genetic risk predictors
Authors: Yang Haomin , Holowko Natalie , Grassmann Felix , Eriksson Mikael , Hall Per , Czene Kamila 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Despite the biological link between thyroid hormones and breast cancer cell proliferation shown in experimental studies, little is known about the association between hyperthyroidism and breast cancer, as well as its association with the most common mammographic and genetic risk predictors for breast cancer.

Methods
This study estimates the incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of breast cancer among women diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, compared to those who are not, using two cohorts: a Swedish national cohort of the general female population (n = 3,793,492, 2002–2011) and the Karolinska Mammography Project for Risk Prediction of Breast Cancer (KARMA, n = 69,598, 2002–2017). We used logistic regression to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) of hyperthyroidism according to the mammographic and genetic risk predictors for breast cancer.

Results
An increased risk of breast cancer was observed in patients in the national cohort with hyperthyroidism (IRR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.12–1.36), particularly for toxic nodular goiter (IRR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.16–1.63). Hyperthyroidism was associated with higher body mass index, early age at first birth, and lower breastfeeding duration. Higher mammographic density was observed in women with toxic nodular goiter, compared to women without hyperthyroidism. Additionally, among genotyped women without breast cancer in the KARMA cohort (N = 11,991), hyperthyroidism was associated with a high polygenic risk score (PRS) for breast cancer overall (OR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.09–3.60) and for estrogen receptor-positive specific PRS (OR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.04–3.43).

Conclusion
Hyperthyroidism is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly for patients with toxic nodular goiter. The association could be explained by higher mammographic density among these women, as well as pleiotropic genetic variants determining shared hormonal/endocrine factors leading to the pathology of both diseases.
A TaqMan-based real-time PCR assay for specific detection of novel duck reovirus in China
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Li Weihua , Liu Xiaodong , Li Xudong , Gao Bin , Diao Youxiang , Tang Yi 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
In China, Newly emerging duck reovirus (NDRV) variants have been causing major disease problems in cherry valley ducks. NDRV has the potential to cause high morbidity and 5–50% mortality rates. Severe hemorrhagic-necrosis in the liver and spleen were commonly seen in NDRV affected ducks. The availability of upgraded methods for rapid diagnosis of newly emerging DRV variants is crucial for successful DRV infection control and prevention.

Results
In this study, we present a TaqMan-based real-time PCR assay (RT-qPCR) for the detection of NDRV infection. Using the conserved regions within the NDRV genome, we designed the specific primers and probe. The lower limit of detection for NDRV infection was 10 copies/μL (Ct values: 38.3) after the optimization of the RT-qPCR conditions. By cross-checking with other duck viral pathogens, no cross-reactivity was observed confirming the assay was highly specific for the detection of NDRV. Reproducibility of the RT-qPCR was confirmed by intra- and inter-assay variability was less than 2.91%(Intra-assay variability of Ct values: 0.07–1.48%; Interassay variability of Ct values: 0.49–2.91%). This RT-qPCR and conventional PCR (cPCR) detected one hundred and twenty samples of NDRV infection from different regions. The result shows that the positive rates were 94.17 and 84.17% respectively. The detection rate of RT-qPCR rapid detection assay was 10% higher than that of the cPCR method.

Conclusion
This research developed a highly sensitive, specific, reproducible and versatile of RT-qPCR for quantitatively detecting NDRV. It can be used to study the pathogenesis and epidemiology investigation of NDRV.
Upregulation of METTL14 mediates the elevation of PERP mRNA N6 adenosine methylation promoting the growth and metastasis of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Wang Min , Liu Jun , Zhao Yan , He Ruizhi , Xu Xiaodong , Guo Xingjun , Li Xu , Xu Simiao , Miao Ji , Guo Jianpin , Zhang Hang , Gong Jun , Zhu Feng , Tian Rui , Shi Chengjian , Peng Feng , Feng Yechen , Yu Shuo , Xie Yu , Jiang Jianxin , Li Min , Wei Wenyi , He Chuan , Qin Renyi 
Published: August 2020

AbstractBackgroundPancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal human cancers.N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a common eukaryotic mRNA modification, plays critical roles in both physiological and pathological processes. However, its role in pancreatic cancer remains elusive.MethodsLC/MS was used to profile m6A levels in pancreatic cancer and normal tissues. Bioinformatics analysis, real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting were used to identify the role of m6A regulators in pancreatic cancer. The biological effects of methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14), an mRNA methylase, were investigated using in vitro and in vivo models. MeRIP-Seq and RNA-Seq were used to assess the downstream targets of METTL14.ResultsWe found that the m6A levels were elevated in approximately 70% of the pancreatic cancer samples. Furthermore, we demonstrated that METTL14 is the major enzyme that modulates m6A methylation (frequency and site of methylation). METTL14 overexpression markedly promoted pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and migration both in vitro and in vivo,via direct targeting of the downstreamPERPmRNA (p53 effector related to PMP-22) in an m6A-dependent manner. Methylation of the target adenosine lead to increasedPERPmRNA turnover, thus decreasing PERP (mRNA and protein) levels in pancreatic cancer cells.ConclusionsOur data suggest that the upregulation of METTL14 leads to the decrease of PERP levels via m6A modification, promoting the growth and metastasis of pancreatic cancer; therefore METTL14 is a potential therapeutic target for its treatment.
IL-22 hinders antiviral T cell responses and exacerbates ZIKV encephalitis in immunocompetent neonatal mice
Authors: Liang Yuejin , Yi Panpan , Ru Wenjuan , Jie Zuliang , Wang Hui , Ghanayem Tamer , Wang Xiaofang , Alamer Edrous , Liu Jinjun , Hu Haitao , Soong Lynn , Cai Jiyang , Sun Jiaren 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
The Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak that occurred in multiple countries was linked to increased risk of nervous system injuries and congenital defects. However, host immunity- and immune-mediated pathogenesis in ZIKV infection are not well understood. Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is a crucial cytokine for regulating host immunity in infectious diseases. Whether IL-22 plays, a role in ZIKV infection is unknown.

Methods
The cellular source of IL-22 was identified in IFNAR-/- mice and wild-type (WT) neonatal mice during ZIKV infection. To determine the role of IL-22, we challenged 1-day-old WT and IL-22-/- mice with ZIKV and monitored clinical manifestations. Glial cell activation in the brain was assessed by confocal imaging. ZIKV-specific CD8+ T cell responses in both the spleen and brain were analyzed by flow cytometry. In addition, glial cells were cultured in vitro and infected with ZIKV in the presence of IL-22, followed by the evaluation of cell proliferation, cytokine expression, and viral loads.

Results
We found that γδ T cells were the main source of IL-22 during ZIKV infection in both the spleen and brain. WT mice began to exhibit weight loss, staggered steps, bilateral hind limb paralysis, and weakness at 10 days post-infection (dpi) and ultimately succumbed to infection at 16–19 dpi. IL-22 deficiency lessened weight loss, moderated the systemic inflammatory response, and greatly improved clinical signs of neurological disease and mortality. ZIKV infection also induced the activation of microglia and astrocytes in vitro. Additional analysis demonstrated that the absence of IL-22 resulted in reduced activation of microglia and astrocytes in the cortex. Although IL-22 displayed a negligible effect on glial cells in vitro, IL-22-/- mice mounted more vigorous ZIKV-specific CD8+ T cell responses, which led to a more effective control of ZIKV in the brain.

Conclusions
Our data revealed a pathogenic role of IL-22 in ZIKV encephalitis.
Exploring augmented grasping capabilities in a multi-synergistic soft bionic hand
Authors: Piazza Cristina , Simon Ann M. , Turner Kristi L. , Miller Laura A. , Catalano Manuel G. , Bicchi Antonio , Hargrove Levi J. 
Published: August 2020

AbstractBackgroundState-of-the-art bionic hands incorporate hi-tech devices which try to overcome limitations of conventional single grip systems. Unfortunately, their complexity often limits mechanical robustness and intuitive prosthesis control. Recently, the translation of neuroscientific theories (i.e. postural synergies) in software and hardware architecture of artificial devices is opening new approaches for the design and control of upper-limb prostheses.MethodsFollowing these emerging principles, previous research on the SoftHand Pro, which embeds one physical synergy, showed promising results in terms of intuitiveness, robustness, and grasping performance. To explore these principles also in hands with augmented capabilities, this paper describes the SoftHand 2 Pro, a second generation of the device with 19 degrees-of-freedom and a second synergistic layer. After a description of the proposed device, the work explores a continuous switching control method based on a myoelectric pattern recognition classifier.ResultsThe combined system was validated using standardized assessments with able-bodied and, for the first time, amputee subjects. Results show an average improvement of more than 30% of fine grasp capabilities and about 10% of hand function compared with the first generation SoftHand Pro.ConclusionsEncouraging results suggest how this approach could be a viable way towards the design of more natural, reliable, and intuitive dexterous hands.
MMPphg from the thermophilic Meiothermus bacteriophage MMP17 as a potential antimicrobial agent against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria
Authors: Wang Feng , Xiong Yan , Xiao Yao , Han Jian , Deng Xianyu , Lin Lianbing 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
New strategies are urgently needed to deal with the growing problem of multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. As the natural viruses against bacteria, recently, bacteriophages have received particular attention. Here, we identified and characterized a novel peptidoglycan hydrolase named MMPphg by decoding the complete genome sequence of Meiothermus bacteriophage MMP17, which was isolated in Tengchong hot spring in China and contains a circular genome of 33,172 bp in size and a GC content of 63.4%.

Findings
We cloned the MMPphg gene, overproduced and purified the phage lytic protein, which contains a highly conserved M23 metallopeptidase domain and can be activated by Mg2+ and Zn2+. MMPphg is capable of withstanding temperatures up to 70 °C, and preserved more than 80% of its activity after a 30 min treatment between 35 and 65 °C. More interestingly, by disrupting bacterial cells, MMPphg exhibits surprising antimicrobial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria, especially antibiotic-resistant strains such as Escherichia coli O157, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia.

Conclusions
In the current age of mounting antibiotic resistance, these results suggest the great potential of MMPphg, the gene product of bacteriophage MMP17, in combating bacterial infections and shed light on bacteriophage-based strategies to develop alternatives to conventional antibiotics for human or veterinary applications.
Metallothionein-3 as a multifunctional player in the control of cellular processes and diseases
Authors: Koh Jae-Young , Lee Sook-Jeong 
Published: August 2020

AbstractTransition metals, such as iron, copper, and zinc, play a very important role in life as the regulators of various physiochemical reactions in cells. Abnormal distribution and concentration of these metals in the body are closely associated with various diseases including ischemic seizure, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and cancer. Iron and copper are known to be mainly involved in in vivo redox reaction. Zinc controls a variety of intracellular metabolism via binding to lots of proteins in cells and altering their structure and function. Metallothionein-3 (MT3) is a representative zinc binding protein predominant in the brain. Although the role of MT3 in other organs still needs to be elucidated, many reports have suggested critical roles for the protein in the control of a variety of cellular homeostasis. Here, we review various biological functions of MT3, focusing on different cellular molecules and diseases involving MT3 in the body.
Residents working with Médecins Sans Frontières: training and pilot evaluation
Authors: Ripoll-Gallardo Alba , Ragazzoni Luca , Mazzanti Ettore , Meneghetti Grazia , Franc Jeffrey Michael , Costa Alessandro , della Corte Francesco 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Well-prepared humanitarian workers are now more necessary than ever. Essential to the preparation process are: clearly defined learning objectives, curricula tailored to the nuances of humanitarian settings, simulation-based training, and evaluation. This manuscript describes a training program designed to prepare medical residents for their first field deployment with Médecins Sans Frontières and presents the results of a pilot assessment of its effectiveness.

Methods
The training was jointly developed by the Research Center in Emergency and Disaster Medicine- CRIMEDIM of the Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy, and the humanitarian aid organization Médecins Sans Frontières- Italy (MSF-Italy); the following topics were covered: disaster medicine, public health, safety and security, infectious diseases, psychological support, communication, humanitarian law, leadership, and job-specific skills. It used a blended-learning approach consisting of a 3-month distance learning module; 1-week instructor-led coaching; and a field placement with MSF. We assessed its effectiveness using the first three levels of Kirkpatrick’s training evaluation model.

Results
Eight residents took part in the evaluation. Four were residents in emergency medicine, 3 in anesthesia, and 1 in pediatrics; 3 of them were female and the median age was 31 years. Two residents were deployed in Pakistan, 1 in Afghanistan, 1 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 1 in Iraq, 2 in Haiti and 1 on board of the MSF Mediterranean search & rescue ship. Mean deployment time was 3 months. The average median score for the overall course was 5 (excellent). There was a significant improvement in post-test multiple choice scores (p = 0.001) and in residents’ overall performance scores (P = 0.000001).

Conclusion
Residents were highly satisfied with the training program and their knowledge and skills improved as a result of participation.

Trial registration
This study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee (date 24-02-2016, study code UPO.2015.4.10).
Efficacy and safety of fire needle therapy for blood stasis syndrome of plaque psoriasis: protocol for a randomized, single-blind, multicenter clinical trial
Authors: Liu Liu , Lu Yi , Yan Xiao-ning , Yang Su-qing , Gong Li-ping , Li Ling-e , Zhao Yi-ding , Yin Qing-feng , Wang Rui-ping , An Yue-peng , Huang Gang , Zhang Jin-fang , Sun Xiao-ying , Li Xin , Li Bin 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background
Fire needle therapy is a characteristic treatment in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). An increasing number of studies have indicated that fire needle treatment for psoriasis provides satisfactory results with few side effects and a low recurrence rate. We herein describe the protocol for a multicenter, randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial that will provide high-quality evidence on the efficacy and safety of fire needle therapy for plaque psoriasis.

Methods
Ninety-two patients with blood stasis syndrome (BSS) of plaque psoriasis will be enrolled and randomly assigned to receive fire needle therapy (intervention group) or fire needle control therapy (control group) once a week for 4 weeks. The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score will serve as the major efficacy index, while the body surface area (BSA), Physician Global Assessment (PGA) score, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) score, patient-reported quality of life (PRQoL), visual analog scale (VAS) score for itching, TCM symptom score, and relapse rate will be assessed as secondary outcomes. The PASI score, BSA, PGA score, and VAS score for itching will be evaluated at baseline and during the 4-week treatment and follow-up periods. DLQI score, PRQoL, and TCM symptom score will be assessed at baseline and during the treatment period. Recurrence will be evaluated during the follow-up period. Safety assessments include vital sign monitoring, routine blood tests, blood biochemistry, routine urine tests, pregnancy tests, physical examinations, and adverse-event recording. SAS software will be used for data analysis. The data network platform will be designed by the data management center of Nanjing Ningqi Medical Technology Co., Ltd.

Discussion
It is believed that fire needle therapy can activate the meridians, promote blood circulation, and regulate skin immunity. BSS of plaque psoriasis is related to not only immune dysfunction but also poor or stagnant blood flow. We anticipate that the results of the trial described in this protocol will provide strong evidence for the safety and efficacy of fire needle therapy for BSS of plaque psoriasis.

Trial registration
Clinicaltrials.govNCT03953885. Registered on May 15, 2019. Name: Fire Needle Therapy on Plaque Psoriasis with Blood Stasis Syndrome