bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mycorrhization of Quercus Mongolica Seedlings by Tuber Melanosporum Alters Root Carbon Exudation and Rhizosphere Bacterial Communities
Authors: Wang Yanliang , Wang Ran , Lu Bin , Guerin-Laguette Alexis , He Xinhua , Yu Fuqiang 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Aims To study how ectomycorrhizas (ECMs) mediate plant performance and rhizosphere soil bacterial communities via altered physiological characteristics and root carbon exudation. Methods Tuber melanosporum-colonized and uncolonized Quercus mongolica seedlings were grown on a substrate consisting of 41 % peat, 41 % pumice, 9 % pine bark and 9 % lime. Gas exchange fluorescence system, inductively coupled plasma atomic-emission spectrometer, high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, and 16S rRNA sequencing were used to analyze photosynthetic and nutritional characteristics, and rhizosphere carbon exudates, and bacterial communities. Results Tuber melanosporum mycorrhization increased leaf photosynthetic rate (by 69 %) and phosphorus concentration (94 %); increased rhizosphere pH (0.4 units), total organic carbon (TOC, 76 %) and acid phosphatase activity (33 %); but decreased leaf potassium concentration (26 %) and rhizosphere organic anions (50 %). Additionally, sugars like galactose were present in rhizosphere extract of colonized, but not uncolonized seedlings. Mycorrhization altered rhizosphere bacterial communities, with only ~10 % operational taxonomic units (OTUs) shared by both colonized and uncolonized seedlings; T. melanosporum enriched the phylum actinobacteria and the OTU of amb-16S-1323, IMCC26256 and PLTA13, but reduced SWB02. The abundances of different OTUs were differently affected by T. melanosporum colonization, and they were correlated with different physiological and/or rhizosphere factors. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that T. melanosporum ECM colonization can regulate carbon economy and rhizosphere bacterial communities of Q. mongolica seedlings grown in a previously sterilized peat-based substrate, to promote plant growth and nutrient cycling.
Synthesis of Iridium-Based Nanocomposites With Catalase Activity For Cancer PTT/PDT Therapy
Authors: Wu Hang , Jiang Qi , Luo Keyi , Zhu Chunping , Xie Mengmeng , Wang Shige , Fei Zhewei , Zhao Jiulong 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The combination of photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) has attracted attention due to its enhanced tumor synergetic effect. This study proposes a novel nanoenzyme-based theranostic nanoplatform, IrO2@MSN@PDA-BSA(Ce6), for the combined PTT and PDT of tumors. IrO2 was prepared by a simple hydrolysis method and coated with a thin layer of mesoporous silica (MSN) to facilitate the physical adsorption of Chlorin e6 (Ce6). The PDA coating and IrO2 NPs of the nanoplatform demonstrated an improved photothermal conversion efficiency of 29.8 % under NIR irradiation. Further, the Ce6 loading imparts materials with the ability to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) under 660 nm NIR laser irradiation. It was also proved that the IrO2 NPs could catalyze the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) to generate endogenous oxygen (O2), thereby enhancing the efficiency of PDT. The in vitro and in vivo experiments indicated that the nanocomposites were highly biocompatible and could produce a satisfactory tumor therapeutic effect. Thus, the findings of the present study demonstrate the viability of using theranostic nanoenzymes for translational medicine.
Spatial Distribution and Epidemiology of Echinococcus Granulosus Infection in Sheep and Goats Slaughtered in a Hyperendemic European Mediterranean Area
Authors: Bosco Antonio , Alves Leucio Camara , Cociancic Paola , Amadesi Alessandra , Pepe Paola , Morgoglione Maria Elena , Maurelli Maria Paola , Miranda Edyniesky Ferrer , Santoro Kleber Régis , Ramos Rafael Antonio Nascimento , Rinaldi Laura , Cringoli Giuseppe 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a parasitic zoonosis caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus, highly widespread in livestock, particularly sheep and goats. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial distribution of CE in sheep and goats slaughtered in a hyperendemic Mediterranean area.Methods: A survey was conducted in Basilicata region (southern Italy) from 2014 to 2019. A total of 1454 animals (1265 sheep and 189 goats) from 824 farms were examined for hydatid cysts detection by visual inspection, palpation and incision of target organs. All the CE cysts were counted and classified into five morphostructural types (unilocular, multisepted, calcified, caseous and hyperlaminated). The molecular analysis was performed on 50 cysts. For spatial analysis, kriging interpolation method was used to create risk maps, while the clustering was assessed by Moran’s I test.Results: CE prevalence of 72.2% (595/824) and 58.4% (849/1454) were observed at the farm and animal level, respectively, with higher values in sheep (62.9%) than goats (28.0%). The liver and lungs were the most frequently infected organs both in sheep and goats. Most of recovered cysts belonged to the calcified and multisepted morphotypes. All the isolates were identified as E. granulosus sensu stricto (genotypes G1-G3). Spatial distribution showed a moderate clustering of positive animals.Conclusions: The findings of this study can be used to better understand the eco-epidemiology of echinococcosis and to improve the CE surveillance and prevention programs in regions highly endemic for CE.
Prevalence and Determinants of Readiness of Health Facilities for Quality Antenatal Care Services in Bangladesh
Authors: Nilima Shahnaz , Sen Kanchan Kumar , Zahura Fatima Tuz , Bari Wasimul 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe quality antenatal care (ANC) services can reduce the risk of the pregnancy complications, and hence reduce the maternal and child morbidity and mortality. To ensure the quality ANC services to the pregnant women, it is essential that healthcare providers should be fully prepared with six tracer indicators recommended by World Health Organization. In this study, the prevalence of readiness by selected covariates has been examined. Potential factors responsible for the readiness have also been identified.MethodsUsing data from nationally representative Bangladesh Health Facility Survey (BHFS), 2017, the readiness indices of health facilities providing ANC services have been measured based on the six tracer indicators of the service. The chi-square test has been applied to check the association of selected covariates with the readiness index, and to obtain the adjusted associations of covariates, we have carried out a multinomial logistic regression model. ResultsOnly 4.26% of the facilities is found to provide quality ANC services to the pregnant women. Rural facilities have lower readiness to provide quality services compared to urban facilities [RRR: 0.13, 95% CI: 0.06-0.31; p<0.001]. Community clinics and private hospitals are less likely to have medium or high readiness compared to public hospitals or clinics. The health facilities having specialist or MBBS doctors are more likely to be considered as ready for quality ANC services compared to others facilities. Regional difference exists in readiness for providing the service.ConclusionA huge gap has been found in the facilities of Bangladesh to prove quality ANC services. This is a high time to reduce this gap in achieving sustainable development goals related with maternity and neonatal mortality. The present study recommends that the government of Bangladesh should take necessary initiatives to fully prepared healthcare providers so that quality ANC services can be equally provided to each pregnant woman.
The Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Immunity Induced by Nano-Pulse Stimulation
Authors: Guo Siqi , Burcus Niculina I. , Scott Megan , Jing Yu , Semenov Iurii 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are byproducts of tumor cells treated with Nano-Pulse Stimulation (NPS). Recently, ROS have been suggested as a contributing factor in immunogenic cell death and T cell-mediated immunity. This research further investigated the role of NPS induced ROS in antitumor immunity. ROS production in 4T1-luc breast cancer cells was characterized using three detection reagents, namely, Amplex Red, MitoSox Red, and Dihydroethidium. The efficiency of ROS quenching was evaluated in the presence or absence of ROS scavengers and/or antioxidants. The immunogenicity of NPS treated tumor cells was assessed by ex vivo dendritic cell activation, in vivo vaccination assay and in situ vaccination with NPS tumor ablation. We found that NPS treatment enhanced the immunogenicity of 4T1-luc mouse mammary tumor, resulted in a potent in situ vaccination protection and induced long-term T cell immunity. ROS production derived from NPS treated breast cancer cells was an electric pulse dose-dependent phenomenon. Noticeably, the dynamic pattern of hydrogen peroxide production was different from that of superoxide production. Interestingly, regardless of NPS treatment, different ROS scavengers could either block or promote ROS production and stimulate or inhibit tumor cell growth. The activation of dendritic cells was not influenced by blocking ROS generation. The results from in vivo vaccination with NPS treated cancer cells suggests that ROS generation was not a prerequisite for immune protection.
Atypical infectious mononucleosis in the cervical region mimicking lymphoma in an adult: a case-based literature review
Authors: Zheng Shize , Shi Ce , Ren Feilong , Ren Chunxia , Meng Lin , Hao Yifan , Fan Xinyi , Qiao Chunyan , Sun Hongchen 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
BackgroundInfectious mononucleosis (IM) is an infectious clinical entity commonly seen in adolescence and early adulthood. It is caused in the majority of cases by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and it presents as pharyngitis, fever, and lymphadenopathy. As the viruses mainly target the lymphocytes and reticuloendothelial system of the body, leading to the proliferation of the lymphatic tissues, it is often mistaken as lymphoma. Most cases of IM can be easily distinguished from lymphoma by clinical presentations and laboratory findings. However, atypical clinical presentations or laboratory findings occasionally occur, including the ages of patients over 30, generalized or isolated lymphadenopathy at unusual sites, negative heterophile antibody tests, absence of atypical lymphocytosis in the peripheral blood smear, etc. These atypical cases may lead to confused diagnosis. Therefore, IM should be differentiated from malignant lymphoma. In this paper, we reported a case of atypical IM in the cervical region of an adult, with elder age and longer disease course than typical IM.Case presentationIn this paper, we reported a case of IM in the cervical region of a 31-year-old man, and reviewed the recent literatures on the pathogenesis, as well as differential diagnosis of IM.ConclusionWhen facing enlarged tonsil or cervical lymph nodes, the pathologists should increase vigilance to the differential diagnosis between infectious diseases and lymphomas. Especially in ambiguous cases, it is essential to test for EBER by in situ hybridization to rule out IM before making a preliminary diagnosis of lymphoma.
Insights into the molecular mechanisms of Huangqi decoction on liver fibrosis via computational systems pharmacology approaches
Authors: Wang Biting , Wu Zengrui , Li Weihua , Liu Guixia , Tang Yun 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background: The traditional Chinese medicine Huangqi decoction (HQD) consists of Radix Astragali and Radix Glycyrrhizae in a ratio of 6 : 1, which has been used for the treatment of liver fibrosis. In this study, we tried to elucidate its action of mechanism (MoA) via a combination of metabolomics data, network pharmacology and molecular docking methods. Methods: Firstly, we collected prototype components and metabolic products after administration of HQD from a publication. With known and predicted targets, compound-target interactions were obtained. Then, the global compound-liver fibrosis target bipartite network and the HQD-liver fibrosis protein-protein interaction network were constructed, separately. KEGG pathway analysis was applied to further understand the mechanisms related to the target proteins of HQD. Additionally, molecular docking simulation was performed to determine the binding efficiency of compounds with targets. Finally, after taking concentration of prototype compounds and metabolites of HQD after administration into consideration, the critical compound-liver fibrosis target bipartite network was constructed.Results: We collected 68 components, including 17 prototype components and 51 metabolic products after administration of HQD, and 540 compound-target interactions were obtained between the 68 components and 95 targets. Combining network analysis and molecular docking, as well as concentration of prototype compounds and metabolites of HQD, our final results demonstrated that eight compounds (three prototype compounds and five metabolites) and eight targets (CDK1, MMP9, PPARD, PPARG, PTGS2, SERPINE1, TP53, and HIF1A) might contribute to the effects of HQD on liver fibrosis by reducing fibrogenesis and stimulate degradation, which through p53 signaling pathway, PPAR signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway.Conclusions: Our results would shed light on the complicated MoA of traditional Chinese medicine and help to attract attention to the therapeutic effects of metabolites of original components in Chinese herbs through computational methods.
Agrimoniin Sensitizes Pancreatic Cancer to Apoptosis through ROS-Mediated Energy Metabolism Dysfunction
Authors: Zhu Xiandong , Duan Feixiang , Wang Yongqiang , Zhang Hewei , Wang Xiaowu , Zhang Yan , Tang Hengjie , Huang Hongjian , Chen Bicheng , Sun Linxiao 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background
Agrimoniin, a polyphenol compounds isolated from Agrimonia pilosa ledeb, has antiviral, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities in vivo and in vitro. However, its molecular mechanism in pancreatic cancer remains to be determined.
Methods
The proliferation was detected by colony formation, cell proliferation and toxicity, and real-time cell analysis techniques. The apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry and Western blot. Flow cytometry was used to measure the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis. The level of intracellular ROS or mitochondrial membrane potential was measured with a DCFH-DA or JC-1 probe. Cell metabolism assays were analyzed and evaluated by using Agilent Seahorse Bioscience XF96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer. The target proteins were analyzed by Western blot. Subcutaneous cancer models in nude mice were established to evaluate the anticancer effects in vivo.
Results
Agrimoniin inhibited cell growth and promoted cell apoptosis by regulating cell metabolism in pancreatic cancer cells. Agrimoniin increased the ROS level in pancreatic cancer cells by suppressing Nrf2-dependent ROS scavenging system and disrupting normal mitochondrial membrane potential. We also found that agrimoniin significantly disrupted mitochondrial function and reduced the protein expression of mTOR/HIF-1α pathway and subsequently decreased oxygen consumption rate and extracellular acidification rate. Eventually, agrimoniin affected intracellular energy metabolism and induced apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells.
Conclusions
These findings reveal the novel function of agrimoniin in promoting apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells through mediating energy metabolism dysfunction.
When to Stop Testing Software: Economic Approach
Authors: Nguyen Thach Ngoc , Zapata Francisco , Kosheleva Olga 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
When should we stop testing software and release it? Many software engineering papers attempt to answer this question -- from the computer science viewpoint. However, the ultimate objective of every company -- and software companies are not an exception -- is to bring profit. In view of this fact, in this paper, we analyze the problem of when to stop testing from the economic viewpoint. For the simplified first-approximation model, we provide an explicit answer, and we describe how this answer can be made more accurate by using more adequate models.
Genetic Profile and Clinical Implications of PDGFRB Fusion in Adult B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Xu Guofa , Bao Xie-bing , Liu Li-min , Wang Man , Zhang Zhi-bo , Zeng Zhao , Xie Jun-dan , Qiu Hui-ying , Chen Su-ning , Wu De-Pei 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background:To investigate the pathogenesis, genetic changes, treatment and prognosis of adult B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) with platelet-derived growth factor receptor B (PDGFRB) fusion. Method：Clinical characteristics, treatment process and prognosis of 7 adult B-ALL patients with PDGFRB fusion were presented respectively, and the PDGFRB fusion was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization, RNA sequencing and Polymerase Chain Reaction. Results: 7 adult B-ALL patients with PDGFRB fusion were presented respectively. There were 5 males and 2 females, with a median age of 21 (range, 17-39) years and a median white blood cell count of 7.85 (range, 2.30-111.25) ×10^9/L. The fusion partners were EBF1, SMIM3 and TERF2. Three of 7 cases received tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) targeted therapy, and 4 of 7 cases received chimeric antigen receptor T -cell (CAR-T) therapy. A total of 6 (85.71%) cases underwent haploid hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Haplo-HSCT). Overall response rate was 71.43% (4/7), and the common adverse reactions during induction were febrile neutropenia and nausea. Seventy-five percent (3/4) and 100% (6/6) of patients were minimal residual disease negative after CAR-T and Haplo-HSCT. To the last follow-up, 2 of 7 cases relapsed in 2 and 7 months after remission, respectively, and the estimated 36 months of Event-free survival and Overall survival was 75.0% and 66.7%.Conclusions: intensive therapy combined with CAR-T or TKI is needed to achieve deep remission, and sequential Haplo-HSCT may improve the prognosis of adult B-ALL with PDGFRB fusion.
Xanthine Oxidoreductase Activity in Platelet-Poor and Rich Plasma As a Oxidative Stress Indicator in Patients Required Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Cecerska-Heryć Elżbieta , Heryć Rafał , Dutkiewicz Grażyna , Michalczyk Anna , Grygorcewicz Bartłomiej , Serwin Natalia , Napiontek-Balińska Sylwia , Dołęgowska Barbara 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Background: Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) is a hydroxylase enzyme involved in the metabolism of purines. XOR activity can vary as the homodimer protein can be converted into two different isoforms: XD (antioxidant) and XO (prooxidant). Oxidative stress and inflammation that accompany chronic kidney disease (CKD), dialysis, and kidney transplantation result in platelet activation. This study aimed to determine the influence of applied renal replacement therapy on the activity of xanthine oxidoreductase and its isoforms.Methods: The study group consisted of 117 patients divided into 4 groups: hemodialysis (30), peritoneal dialysis (30), kidney transplant patients (27) and conservative treatment (30). The control group consisted of 30 healthy volunteers.Results: Significant differences were found in XOR activity in platelet-poor plasma (PPP) within the groups studied (p=0.001). There was a relationship between type of renal replacement therapy and the oxidoreductase isoforms in PPP (p<0.001 all isoforms), and XD (p=0.008) and XO (p<0.001) in PRP. An association was observed between the activity of all oxidoreductase isoforms in PPP and PRP, and type of renal replacement therapy, duration of dialysis and the age of patients. The presence of CKD also reflected differences in XD and XO activity in PPP.Conclusions: The type of renal replacement therapy used in CKD patients, age of patients, duration of dialysis, CKD causes, and stage of progression significantly affect the activity of XOR and its isoforms.
Ultrasound Diagnosis of Congestion in the Pulmonary and Systemic Circulations in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Kirillova Venera , Smorgon Andrey , Garganeeva Alla , Batalov Roman , Meshchaninov Viktor , Sokolova Ludmila , Blagodareva Maria , Khlynin Mikhail , Popov Sergey 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
BackgroundFluid retention is one of the most common reasons for the heart failure decompensation. The purpose of the study is to estimate the sensitivity, specificity of the ultrasound method for evaluating congestive phenomena in the systemic and pulmonary circulations in patients with the atrial fibrillation (AF) and chronic heart failure (CHF).MethodsThe study includes 28 patients with the paroxysmal AF with and without CHF, who were planned for the radiofrequency pulmonary veins isolation. The maximum and minimum diameters of the right superior pulmonary vein and inferior vena cava on exhalation were measured echocardiographically. An average pressure in the right and left atria was measured intraoperatively. Сorrelation between the maximum and minimum diameters of the right superior pulmonary vein and an average pressure in the left atria and between inferior vena cava on exhalation and an average pressure in the right atria was calculated. The sensitivity, specificity of ultrasound methods for evaluating congestive phenomena in the systemic and pulmonary circulations was evaluated.ResultsThere was positive correlation between the minimum diameter of right superior pulmonary vein and invasive mean pressure in the left atrium (R=0.65, P<0.05), between invasive measured mean pressure in the right atrium and the diameter of the inferior vena cava on exhalation (R=0.49, P<0.05). Sensitivity of the method – maximum diameters of the right superior pulmonary vein greater than 21.7 mm are ultrasound criteria for venous pulmonary hypertension is 75%, specificity – 86%. Sensitivity of the method minimum diameters of the right superior pulmonary vein greater than 10.5 mm are ultrasound criteria for venous pulmonary hypertension is 85%, specificity – 86%. The sensitivity of the inferior vena cava diameter exceeding 18,5 mm on exhalation is 100%, the specificity is 92%.ConclusionsThe new ultrasound method of congestion diagnostics in the pulmonary circulation by the maximum and/or minimum diameter of the right superior pulmonary vein can be effectively applied in clinical practice in the same way as the well-known technique of congestion diagnostics in the systemic circulation by the diameter of the inferior vena cava in patients with the atrial fibrillation and chronic heart failure.