bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Risk factors associated with tick infestations on equids in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, with notes on Rickettsia massiliae detection
Authors: Ali Abid , Zahid Hafsa , Zeb Ismail , Tufail Muhammad , Khan Sulaiman , Haroon Muhammad , Tufail Muhammad , Bilal Muhammad , Hussain Majid , Alouffi Abdulaziz S. , Muñoz-Leal Sebastián , Labruna Marcelo B. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
Studies on ticks infesting equids are lacking in various parts of the world, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity of ticks infesting equids, associated risk factors and rickettsial detection in ticks from equids in KP.

Methods
Inspection of 404 equid hosts from November 2018 to October 2019 resulted in the collection of 550 ticks. Data on tick-associated risk factors were collected from equid owners by means of a questionnaire. After morphological identification, partial DNA sequences of the tick mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene were used for taxonomic confirmation of species. Partial sequences of the gltA and ompA genes were used for Rickettsia detection in ticks.

Results
A total of 550 tick specimens were collected on 324 (80.2%) of the equids inspected, of which 161 were horses (50%), 145 (45%) were donkeys and 18 were mules (5%). The ticks were identified as belonging to the following five species: Rhipicephalus microplus (341 specimens, 62% of the total ticks), Rh. haemaphysaloides (126, 23%), Rh. turanicus (39, 7%), Rh. sanguineus (s.l.) (33, 6%) and Hyalomma anatolicum (11, 2%). The most prevalent tick life stage was adult females (279, 51%) followed by adult males (186, 34%) and nymphs (85, 15%). Higher tick infestations were observed on male equids (relative risk [RR] 0.7432, P < 0.0005) and adult equids (RR 1.268, P < 0.0020). Ticks were frequently attached to the axial region of horses (55, 21%), sternum of donkeys (44, 21%) and belly of mules (19, 23%) (P < 0.04). Temporal patterns of tick infestation in association with temperature and humidity were highly significant (P < 0.05). Risk factors, such as animal housing (P < 0.0003), living management (P < 0.006), grazing type (P < 0.01) and location in hilly areas (P < 0.02), significantly enhanced the chances for tick infestation. Tick species analyzed in this study were phylogenetically related to species from Afghanistan, China, South Africa and Taiwan. Partial sequences of the gltA and ompA genes obtained from Rh. microplus and Rh. haemaphysaloides were 100% identical to the spotted fever group pathogen Rickettsia massiliae.

Conclusions
Equids exposed to significant risk factors were infected by one or more of at least five tick species in KP, Pakistan, and some of the ticks harbored the human pathogen R. massiliae.

Graphical abstract
Synchronous and metachronous malignant melanomas arising in a human immunodeficiency virus-positive patient after the commencement of highly active antiretroviral therapy treatment: a case report
Authors: Paul Sharad P. , Briggs Simon , Hitchcock Michael 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
We present an unusual case of a patient who developed four melanomas within a few months of diagnosis with human immunodeficiency virus and commencement of highly active antiretroviral therapy therapy. The patient had no previous history of melanoma, and previous skin checks were normal.

Case presentation
A 50-year-old Caucasian male drainlayer with Fitzpatrick type 2 skin presented for a routine skin examination. He had been diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus 4 months earlier and commenced on highly active antiretroviral therapy therapy. He was found to have three melanomas (melanoma in situ stage) on excision biopsies, and when he presented for wider excisions of these sites a few weeks later, another new melanoma in situ was found. He had no other medical history of note, and no symptoms to report. He is being followed up 3-monthly.

Conclusions
This case of a human immunodeficiency virus-positive person presenting with four cutaneous melanomas—occurring in both synchronous and metachronous fashion within a 4-month period—is being presented both for its uniqueness and also to highlight the increased need for close skin surveillance in human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients.
Adipose mesenchymal stem cells combined with platelet-rich plasma accelerate diabetic wound healing by modulating the Notch pathway
Authors: Ebrahim Nesrine , Dessouky Arigue A. , Mostafa Ola , Hassouna Amira , Yousef Mohamed M. , Seleem Yasmin , El Gebaly Eman Abd El Aziz M. , Allam Mona M. , Farid Ayman Samir , Saffaf Bayan A. , Sabry Dina , Nawar Ahmed , Shoulah Ahmed A. , Khalil Ahmed H. , Abdalla Sami F. , El-Sherbiny Mohamed , Elsherbiny Nehal M. , Salim Rabab F. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
Diabetic foot ulceration is a serious chronic complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by high disability, mortality, and morbidity. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been widely used for diabetic wound healing due to its high content of growth factors. However, its application is limited due to the rapid degradation of growth factors. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of combined adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) and PRP therapy in promoting diabetic wound healing in relation to the Notch signaling pathway.

Methods
Albino rats were allocated into 6 groups [control (unwounded), sham (wounded but non-diabetic), diabetic, PRP-treated, ADSC-treated, and PRP+ADSCs-treated groups]. The effect of individual and combined therapy was evaluated by assessing wound closure rate, epidermal thickness, dermal collagen, and angiogenesis. Moreover, gene and protein expression of key elements of the Notch signaling pathway (Notch1, Delta-like canonical Notch ligand 4 (DLL4), Hairy Enhancer of Split-1 (Hes1), Hey1, Jagged-1), gene expression of angiogenic marker (vascular endothelial growth factor and stromal cell-derived factor 1) and epidermal stem cells (EPSCs) related gene (ß1 Integrin) were assessed.

Results
Our data showed better wound healing of PRP+ADSCs compared to their individual use after 7 and 14 days as the combined therapy caused reepithelialization and granulation tissue formation with a marked increase in area percentage of collagen, epidermal thickness, and angiogenesis. Moreover, Notch signaling was significantly downregulated, and EPSC proliferation and recruitment were enhanced compared to other treated groups and diabetic groups.

Conclusions
These data demonstrated that PRP and ADSCs combined therapy significantly accelerated healing of diabetic wounds induced experimentally in rats via modulating the Notch pathway, promoting angiogenesis and EPSC proliferation.
Scintigraphic tracking of 99mTechnetium-labelled equine peripheral blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells after intravenous, intramuscular, and subcutaneous injection in healthy dogs
Authors: Beerts Charlotte , Brondeel Carlien , Pauwelyn Glenn , Depuydt Eva , Tack Liesa , Duchateau Luc , Xu Yangfeng , Saunders Jimmy H. , Peremans Kathelijne , Spaas Jan H. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
Mesenchymal stem cell treatments in dogs have been investigated as a potential innovative alternative to current conventional therapies for a variety of conditions. So far, the precise mode of action of the MSCs has yet to be determined. The aim of this study was to gain more insights into the pharmacokinetics of MSCs by evaluating their biodistribution in healthy dogs after different injection routes.

Methods
Three different studies were performed in healthy dogs to evaluate the biodistribution pattern of radiolabelled equine peripheral blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells following intravenous, intramuscular and subcutaneous administration in comparison with free 99mTechnetium. The labelling of the equine peripheral blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells was performed using stannous chloride as a reducing agent. Whole-body scans were obtained using a gamma camera during a 24-h follow-up.

Results
The labelling efficiency ranged between 59.58 and 83.82%. Free 99mTechnetium accumulation was predominantly observed in the stomach, thyroid, bladder and salivary glands, while following intravenous injection, the 99mTechnetium-labelled equine peripheral blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells majorly accumulated in the liver throughout the follow-up period. After intramuscular and subcutaneous injection, the injected dose percentage remained very high at the injection site.

Conclusions
A distinct difference was noted in the biodistribution pattern of the radiolabelled equine peripheral blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells compared to free 99mTechnetium indicating equine peripheral blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells have a specific pharmacokinetic pattern after systemic administration in healthy dogs. Furthermore, the biodistribution pattern of the used xenogeneic equine peripheral blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells appeared to be different from previously reported experiments using different sources of mesenchymal stem cells.
Glycemic control by umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells promotes effects of fasting-mimicking diet on type 2 diabetic mice
Authors: Zhao Na , Gao Ying-Feng , Bao Lei , Lei Jing , An Huan-Xiao , Pu Feng-Xing , Cheng Rui-Ping , Chen Ji , Ni Hua , Sui Bing-Dong , Ji Fan-Pu , Hu Cheng-Hu 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
Hepatic steatosis is a big hurdle to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D). Fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) has been shown to be an effective intervention in dyslipidemia of T2D. However, fasting may impair the normal glucose metabolism. Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell (UC-MSC) transplantation has been discovered to regulate immune reactions and reduce hyperglycemia in diabetes. However, the effect of UC-MSCs on improving the lipid metabolism disorder is not quite satisfactory. We have investigated the efficacy comparison and interaction between FMD and UC-MSC infusion, aiming to establish effective T2D therapies and explore its mechanism.

Methods
C57/BL6 mice were fed with high-fat diet (HFD) to induce a diet-induced obese (DIO) mouse model. Leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) mice were used for follow-up experiments. DIO or db/db mice were divided into 4 groups: phosphate buffer saline (PBS), UC-MSCs, FMD, and UC-MSCs + FMD. At the end of the study period, mice were fasted and sacrificed, with the measurement of physiological and biochemical indexes. In addition, the fresh liver, skin, and white adipose tissue were analyzed by histology.

Results
FMD restored the lipid metabolism in DIO mice, whereas its capacity to rescue hyperglycemia was uncertain. Infusion of UC-MSCs was effective in T2D glycemic control but the impact on dyslipidemia was insufficient. Furthermore, both the glucose and the lipid alterations of DIO and db/db mice recovered after UC-MSCs combined with FMD. It was proved that UC-MSCs promoted FMD effects on ameliorating hyperglycemia and restoring the lipid metabolism in T2D mice, while FMD had little promotion effect on UC-MSCs. Mechanistically, we discovered that UC-MSC infusion significantly modulated systematic inflammatory microenvironment, which contributed to concerted actions with FMD.

Conclusions
We established a strategy that combined UC-MSC infusion and FMD and was effective in treating T2D, which provided potential approaches for developing novel clinical T2D therapies.
Comparison of mesenchymal stromal cells from peritoneal dialysis effluent with those from umbilical cords: characteristics and therapeutic effects on chronic peritoneal dialysis in uremic rats
Authors: Du Yangchun , Zong Ming , Guan Qiunong , Huang Zhongli , Zhou Lan , Cai Jing , da Roza Gerald , Wang Hao , Qi Hualin , Lu Yiping , Du Caigan 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
A long-term of peritoneal dialysis (PD) using a hypertonic PD solution (PDS) leads to patient’s peritoneal membrane (PM) injury, resulting in ultrafiltration failure (UFF) and PD drop-out. Our previous study shows that PD effluent-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (pMSCs) prevent the PM injury in normal rats after repeated exposure of the peritoneal cavity to a PDS. This study was designed to compare the cytoprotection between pMSCs and umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) in the treatment of both PM and kidney injury in uremic rats with chronic PD.

Methods
5/6 nephrectomized (5/6Nx) Sprague Dawley rats were intraperitoneally (IP) injected Dianeal (4.25% dextrose, 10 mL/rat/day) and were treated with pMSCs or umbilical cord (UC)-MSCs (approximately 2 × 106/rat/week, IP). Ultrafiltration was determined by IP injection of 30 mL of Dianeal (4.25% dextrose) with 1.5-h dewell time, and kidney failure by serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). The structure of the PM and kidneys was assessed using histology. Gene expression was examined using quantitative reverse transcription PCR, and protein levels using flow cytometric and Western blot analyses.

Results
We showed a slight difference in the morphology between pMSCs and UC-MSCs in plastic dishes, and significantly higher expression levels of stemness-related genes (NANOG, OCT4, SOX2, CCNA2, RAD21, and EXO1) and MSCs surface markers (CD29, CD44, CD90 and CD105) in UC-MSCs than those in pMSCs, but no difference in the differentiation to chondrocytes, osteocytes or adipocytes. pMSC treatment was more effective than UC-MSCs in the protection of the MP and remnant kidneys in 5/6Nx rats from PDS-induced injury, which was associated with higher resistance of pMSCs than UC-MSCs to uremic toxins in culture, and more reduction of peritoneal mesothelial cell death by the secretome from pMSCs than from UC-MSCs in response to PDS exposure. The secretome from both pMSCs and UC-MSCs similarly inactivated NOS2 in activated THP1 cells.

Conclusions
As compared to UC-MSCs, pMSCs may more potently prevent PDS-induced PM and remnant kidney injury in this uremic rat model of chronic PD, suggesting that autotransplantation of ex vivo-expanded pMSCs may become a promising therapy for UFF and deterioration of remnant kidney function in PD patients.
Influence of the mesenchymal stromal cell source on the hematopoietic supportive capacity of umbilical cord blood-derived CD34+-enriched cells
Authors: Bucar Sara , Branco André Dargen de Matos , Mata Márcia F. , Milhano João Coutinho , Caramalho Íris , Cabral Joaquim M. S. , Fernandes-Platzgummer Ana , da Silva Cláudia L. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is a clinically relevant alternative source of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPC). To overcome the low cell number per UCB unit, ex vivo expansion of UCB HSPC in co-culture with mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) has been established. Bone marrow (BM)-derived MSC have been the standard choice, but the use of MSC from alternative sources, less invasive and discardable, could ease clinical translation of an expanded CD34+ cell product. Here, we compare the capacity of BM-, umbilical cord matrix (UCM)-, and adipose tissue (AT)-derived MSC, expanded with/without xenogeneic components, to expand/maintain UCB CD34+-enriched cells ex vivo.

Methods
UCB CD34+-enriched cells were isolated from cryopreserved mononuclear cells and cultured for 7 days over an established feeder layer (FL) of BM-, UCM-, or AT-derived MSC, previously expanded using fetal bovine serum (FBS) or fibrinogen-depleted human platelet lysate (HPL) supplemented medium. UCB cells were cultured in serum-free medium supplemented with SCF/TPO/FLT3-L/bFGF. Fold increase in total nucleated cells (TNC) as well as immunophenotype and clonogenic potential (cobblestone area-forming cells and colony-forming unit assays) of the expanded hematopoietic cells were assessed.

Results
MSC from all sources effectively supported UCB HSPC expansion/maintenance ex vivo, with expansion factors (in TNC) superior to 50x, 70x, and 80x in UCM-, BM-, and AT-derived MSC co-cultures, respectively. Specifically, AT-derived MSC co-culture resulted in expanded cells with similar phenotypic profile compared to BM-derived MSC, but resulting in higher total cell numbers. Importantly, a subpopulation of more primitive cells (CD34+CD90+) was maintained in all co-cultures. In addition, the presence of a MSC FL was essential to maintain and expand a subpopulation of progenitor T cells (CD34+CD7+). The use of HPL to expand MSC prior to co-culture establishment did not influence the expansion potential of UCB cells.

Conclusions
AT represents a promising alternative to BM as a source of MSC for co-culture protocols to expand/maintain HSPC ex vivo. On the other hand, UCM-derived MSC demonstrated inferior hematopoietic supportive capacity compared to MSC from adult tissues. Despite HPL being considered an alternative to FBS for clinical-scale manufacturing of MSC, further studies are needed to determine its impact on the hematopoietic supportive capacity of these cells.
Ferulic acid inhibits LPS-induced apoptosis in bovine mammary epithelial cells by regulating the NF-κB and Nrf2 signalling pathways to restore mitochondrial dynamics and ROS generation
Authors: Liu Mingjiang , Zhang Chi , Xu Xiaolong , Zhao Xin , Han Ziyi , Liu Dandan , Bo Ruonan , Li Jingui , Liu Zongping 
Published: July 2021

AbstractIn bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs), a cascade of inflammatory reactions induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been shown to result in cell injury and apoptosis. The present study aims to reveal the protective effect of ferulic acid (FA) on LPS-induced BMEC apoptosis and explore its potential molecular mechanisms. First, we showed that FA had low cytotoxicity to BMECs and significantly decreased cell apoptosis and the proinflammatory response induced by LPS. Next, FA blocked LPS-induced oxidative stress by restoring the balance of the redox state and inhibiting mitochondrial dysfunction, the main contributor to LPS-induced apoptosis and ROS generation. Furthermore, the relief of inflammation and redox disturbance in the FA preconditioning group were accompanied by weaker NF-κB activation, enhanced Nrf2 activation and maintained cell viability compared to the LPS group. When BMECs were treated with FA alone, we observed that Nrf2 activation was induced before the inhibition of NF-κB activation and that the Keap1–Nrf2 relationship was disturbed. We concluded that FA prevented LPS-induced BMEC apoptosis by reversing the dominant relationship between NF-κB and Nrf2.
Early warning of bloodstream infection in elderly patients with circulating microparticles
Authors: Liu Tingting , Wang Jiang , Yuan Yaping , Wu Jionghe , Wang Chao , Gu Yueqin , Li Hongxia 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
The difficulty of early diagnosis of bloodstream infection in the elderly patients leads to high mortality. Therefore, it is essential to determine some new methods of early warning of bloodstream infection in the elderly patients for timely adjustment of treatment and improvement of prognosis.

Methods
Patients aged over 65 years with suspected bloodstream infections were included and divided into bloodstream infection (BSI) and non-bloodstream infection (non-BSI) groups based on blood culture results. The morphology of microparticles (MPs) was observed by using transmission electron microscopy, and the number of MPs was dynamically monitored by flow cytometry.

Results
A total of 140 patients were included in the study: 54 in the BSI group and 86 in the non-BSI group. Total MPs (T-MPs) ≥ 6000 events/µL (OR, 7.693; 95% CI 2.944–20.103, P < 0.0001), neutrophil-derived MPs (NMPs) ≥ 500 events/µL (OR, 12.049; 95% CI 3.574–40.623, P < 0.0001), and monocyte counts ≤ 0.4 × 109/L (OR, 3.637; 95% CI 1.415–9.348, P = 0.007) within 6 h of fever were independently associated with bloodstream infection in the elderly patients. We also developed an early warning model for bloodstream infection in the elderly patients with an area under the curve of 0.884 (95% CI 0.826–0.942, P < 0.0001), sensitivity of 86.8%, specificity of 76.5%, positive predictive value of 70.8%, and negative predictive value of 89.8%.

Conclusion
The early warning model of bloodstream infection based on circulating T-MPs, NMPs, and monocyte counts within 6 h of fever in the elderly patients was helpful in early detection of bloodstream infection and therefore promptly adjustment of treatment plan.
Computer wireless network integration technology in equipment state data collection
Authors: Ma Lixin 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThe paper introduces a handheld integrated power data acquisition and analysis equipment based on a computer wireless network mobile platform, an intelligent transportation inspection box. The intelligent transportation inspection box acts as a bridge between the transportation inspection work site side and the power grid company center to realize data and resource sharing between the site and center sides. The application of intelligent operation and inspection boxes based on computer wireless network integration technology is essential for improving the professional and intelligent level of on-site operation and maintenance, improving the efficiency of operation and inspection work and the ability to control equipment status, strengthening state maintenance and auxiliary decision-making, and promoting the construction of smart grids significance.
Closed-form pricing formula for foreign equity option with credit risk
Authors: Kim Donghyun , Yoon Ji-Hun , Kim Geonwoo 
Published: July 2021

AbstractSince credit risk in the over-the-counter (OTC) market has undoubtedly become very important issue, credit risk has to be considered when the options in the OTC market are priced. In this paper, we consider the valuation of foreign equity options with credit risk. In order to derive a closed-form pricing formula of this option, we adopt the partial differential equation (PDE) approach and use the Mellin transform method to solve the PDE. Specifically, triple Mellin transforms are used, and the pricing formula is presented as 3-dimensional normal cumulative distribution functions. Finally, we verify that our closed-form formula is accurate by comparing it with the numerical result from the Monte-Carlo simulation.
Successful treatment of acquired reactive perforating collagenosis with itraconazole
Authors: Ye Binrong , Cao Yi , Liu Yeqiang 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background
Acquired reactive perforating collagenosis (ARPC) is a rare form of transepithelial elimination in which altered collagen is extruded through the epidermis.

Case presentation
A 23-year-old male presented with cup-like ulcerated lesions on his limbs since 3 months. A series of serological and immunological tests showed no abnormalities. A diagnosis of ARPC was based on skin biopsy findings. The patient was cured using treatment with itraconazole for 8 weeks, in the absence of a fungal infection.

Conclusions
The anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects of itraconazole can have good therapeutic benefits for ARPC.