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Summary: Clonostachys rosea is a promising saprophytic filamentous fungus that belongs to phylum Ascomycota. Clonostachys rosea is widespread around the world and exists in many kinds of habitats, with the highest frequency in soil. As an excellent mycoparasite, C. rosea exhibits strong biological control ability against numerous fungal plant pathogens, nematodes and insects. These behaviours are based on the activation of multiple mechanisms such as secreted cell‐wall‐degrading enzymes, production of antifungal secondary metabolites and induction of plant defence systems. Besides having significant biocontrol activity, C. rosea also functions in the biodegradation of plastic waste, biotransformation of bioactive compounds, as a bioenergy sources and in fermentation. This mini review summarizes information about the biology and various applications of C. rosea and expands on its possible uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a cofactor of glucose dehydrogenase (GDH) and thus participates in glucose utilization. In Klebsiella pneumoniae, glucose utilization involves PQQ‐dependent direct oxidation pathway (DOP) and phosphoenolpyruvate‐dependent transport system (PTS). It is challenging to overproduce PQQ, as its biosynthesis remains unclear. Here, we report that PQQ production can be enhanced by stimulating the metabolic demand for it. First, we developed CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) system to block PTS and thereby intensify DOP. In shake‐flask cultivation, the strain with CRISPRi system (simultaneously inhibiting four PTS‐related genes) produced 225·65 nmol l−1 PQQ, which was 2·14 times that of wild type. In parallel, an exogenous soluble glucose dehydrogenase (sGDH) was overexpressed in K. pneumoniae. In the shake‐flask cultivation, this sGDH‐overexpressing strain accumulated 140·05 nmol l−1 PQQ, which was 1·33 times that of wild type. To combine the above two strategies, we engineered a strain harbouring both CRISPRi vector and sGDH‐overexpressing vector. In the shake‐flask cultivation, this two‐plasmid strain generated 287·01 nmol l−1 PQQ, which was 2·72 times that of wild type. In bioreactor cultivation, this two‐plasmid strain produced 2206·1 nmol l−1 PQQ in 57 h, which was 7·69 times that in shake‐flask cultivation. These results indicate that PQQ production can be enhanced by intensifying DOP, as the apo‐enzyme GDH is intrinsically coupled with cofactor PQQ. This study provides a strategy for the production of cofactors whose biosynthesis mechanisms remain ambiguous. Significance and Impact of the Study: Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is an economically important chemical, which typically serves as a cofactor of glucose dehydrogenase (GDH) and thus participates in glucose metabolism. Klebsiella pneumoniae can naturally synthesize PQQ, but current yield constrains its commercialization. In this study, the PQQ level was improved by stimulating metabolic demand for PQQ, instead of overexpressing PQQ synthetic genes, as the synthetic mechanism remains ambiguous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Effective laboratory markers for the estimation of disease severity and predicting the clinical progression of coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) is urgently needed. Laboratory tests, including blood routine, cytokine profiles and infection markers, were collected from 389 confirmed COVID‐19 patients. The included patients were classified into mild (n = 168), severe (n = 169) and critical groups (n = 52). The leukocytes, neutrophils, infection biomarkers [such as C‐reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT) and ferritin] and the concentrations of cytokines [interleukin (IL)‐2R, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α] were significantly increased, while lymphocytes were significantly decreased with increased severity of illness. The amount of IL‐2R was positively correlated with the other cytokines and negatively correlated with lymphocyte number. The ratio of IL‐2R to lymphocytes was found to be remarkably increased in severe and critical patients. IL‐2R/lymphocytes were superior compared with other markers for the identification of COVID‐19 with critical illness, not only from mild but also from severe illness. Moreover, the cytokine profiles and IL‐2R/lymphocytes were significantly decreased in recovered patients, but further increased in disease‐deteriorated patients, which might be correlated with the outcome of COVID‐19. Lymphopenia and increased levels of cytokines were closely associated with disease severity. The IL‐2R/lymphocyte was a prominent biomarker for early identification of severe COVID‐19 and predicting the clinical progression of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary sodium butyrate supplementation on growth performance, carcass traits and intestinal of growing‐finishing pigs. Methods and Results: Thirty pigs (27·4 ± 0·4 kg) were randomly assigned to receive one of three diets: basal diet (negative control group), basal diet + 40 ppm zinc bacitracin (positive control group) and basal diet + 0·2% sodium butyrate (sodium butyrate group), respectively. The experiment lasted for 69 days, including 3 days for diet and housing condition adaptation. On day 70, five piglets from each diet group were slaughtered for collecting blood and tissue samples. When compared to the control group, final body weight, daily body weight gain and daily feed intake of pigs in the sodium butyrate group were increased (P < 0·05) and feed intake/body weight gain ratio was decreased (P < 0·05). Carcass weight of pigs in the sodium butyrate group was higher than that of pigs in the negative and positive groups (P < 0·05); backfat thickness of pigs in the positive group was higher than that of pigs in the negative group and sodium butyrate group (P < 0·001). When compared to the negative and positive groups, pigs fed diet supplemented with sodium butyrate showed a increased relative abundance of bacteroidetes in the caecum and a decreased relative abundance of fiemicutes and proteobacteria in the caecum (P < 0·05). Conclusion: The results indicated that dietary sodium butyrate supplementation increased growth performance of growing‐finishing pigs and improved the carcass traits and intestinal health. Significance and Impact of the Study: Antibiotic‐free feed has become an inevitable worldwide trend. This study showed that dietary sodium butyrate supplementation improved the growth performance and intestinal health of growing‐finishing pigs. Thus, sodium butyrate can be applied in growing‐finishing pig feed as an alternative of antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary calcium pyruvate supplementation on growth performance and intestinal health of weaned piglets fed low‐protein diets. Methods and results: After a 7‐day adaptation period, 60 individually housed piglets (Duroc × Yorkshire‐Landrace) weaned at 28 days of age were randomly assigned to receive one of three treatments (20 pigs/treatment) for 28 days: control diet (20·0% crude protein [CP]), low‐protein diet (15·5% CP), and experimental (15·5% CP + 1·8% calcium pyruvate). At the end of the experiment, six piglets from each diet group were slaughtered and blood and tissue samples were collected. Compared with the control group, feeding piglets with 15·5% CP decreased the daily body weight gain; lengths of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum; and weights of the stomach, duodenum, jejunum and ileum (P < 0·05), while 15·5% CP + 1·8% calcium pyruvate supplementation removed those differences (P > 0·05). Compared with the control group, the diarrhoea incidence and relative richness of Firmicutes in the colon contents of piglets in both the 15·5% CP and 15·5% CP + 1·8% calcium pyruvate groups was decreased. The relative richness of Bacteriodetes in the colon contents of piglets was higher in the 15·5% CP + 1·8% calcium pyruvate group than in the control and 15·5% CP groups (P < 0·05). Conclusion: Calcium pyruvate supplementation for four weeks removed the negative effects of a low‐protein diet on the gastrointestinal tract development and daily body weight gain of weaned piglets. Significance and impact of the study: This study showed that supplementing a low‐protein diet with calcium pyruvate, an effective alternative metabolic fuel to amino acids, was beneficial in improving the intestinal health and maximizing the growth of newly weaned piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the antimicrobial effect of paeoniflorin against carbapenem‐resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP). Methods and Results: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of paeoniflorin against CRKP was determined by agar dilution method. Changes in intracellular ATP concentration, intracellular pH (pHin), cell membrane potential and membrane integrity were investigated to assess the influence of paeoniflorin on cell membrane damage. Additionally, alterations in cell structure of CRKP cells and cell damage within biofilms were examined. The results indicated that paeoniflorin was effective against CRKP at MIC of 1·2 mg ml−1. Paeoniflorin destroyed the integrity of CRKP cell membrane, as was confirmed by decrease of intracellular ATP, pHin, membrane potential, as well as distinctive alteration in cell morphology, resulting in leakage of CRKP intracellular components. Moreover, paeoniflorin displayed a markedly inhibitory influence on biofilm formation of CRKP and inactivated CRKP cells within biofilms. Conclusions: Paeoniflorin shows promise as an effective antibiotic against CRKP with the potential to be an alternative therapeutic agent. Significance and Impact of the Study: This study provides information about the potential use of paeoniflorin to reduce the infection of CRKP in clinical practice and food production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa solid‐state fermentation product (RSFP) on the laying performance, egg quality and intestinal microbial flora of hens. Methods and Results: In this study, 40‐week‐old Roman laying hens (n = 216) were randomly assigned to one of the four groups: the control (CON) group, fed 87.5% basal diet +12.5% fermentation substrate; the 0.5% RSFP group, fed 87.5% basal diet +12.0% fermentation substrate +0.5% RSFP; the 2.5% RSFP group, fed 87.5% basal diet +10.0% fermentation substrate +2.5% RSFP; and the 12.5% RSFP group, fed 87.5% basal diet +12.5% RSFP. The effect of each treatment was analysed in six replicates of nine hens. The experimental period was 31 days, which included a 3‐day adaptation period. After 31 days of feeding, one hen from each replicate was randomly selected and killed, and the jejunum and digesta in the cecum were collected for the determination of the intestinal morphology and microbial flora respectively. Daily egg mass in the 2.5 and 12.5% RSFP groups and egg production and feed conversion ratio in the 12.5% RSFP group were higher than those in control group (P < 0.05). The yolk colour was improved in hens fed RSFP‐supplemented diets (P < 0.05). Hens fed RSFP‐supplemented diet showed a decrease in the relative abundances of Proteobacteria, Bacteroides, Helicobacteraceae, Helicobacter and Lachnospiraceae UCG‐002, but an increase in the relative abundance of Prevotellaceae UCG‐001 in the cecum (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Dietary RSFP supplementation improved the laying performance, egg quality and intestinal microflora of hens. Significance and Impact of the Study: Dietary supplementing diet with Rhodotorula mucilaginosa solid‐state fermentation product, which is rich in carotenoids, improved the yolk colour and increased the carotenoid content, thereby improving the intestinal health of hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endovascular intervention has emerged as a potential alternative to open surgery in treating common femoral artery (CFA) atherosclerotic disease. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the safety and efficacy of both techniques. Methods: Thirteen electronic databases from 1980 to 3 January 2018 were searched. Study quality was assessed using the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Interventional Procedure Programme quality assessment tool. Safety and efficacy outcome measures were analysed. Results: Thirty‐one studies reporting 813 endovascular procedures and 3835 endarterectomies were included. Only two small RCTs have been reported. The methodological quality of available studies was generally low and follow‐up short. Safety endpoint assessment revealed a similar risk of wound haematoma for endovascular intervention and endarterectomy (5·5 (95 per cent c.i. 0·2 to 17·2) versus 3·9 (1·7 to 6·9) per cent respectively), a lower risk of wound infection with endovascular procedures (0 versus 5·9 (3·4 to 9·0) per cent) and a lower risk of wound lymph leakage (0 versus 5·7 (3·3 to 8·6) per cent). Efficacy endpoint assessment at 1 year identified that endovascular intervention had a lower primary patency rate than endarterectomy (78·8 (73·3 to 83·8) versus 96·0 (92·2 to 98·6) per cent respectively), a higher revascularization rate (16·0 (6·1 to 29·4) versus 5·8 (1·0 to 14·2) per cent) and a similar amputation rate (2·7 (1·2 to 4·8) versus 1·9 (0·7 to 3·8) per cent). Conclusion: Endovascular intervention of CFA disease appears to reduce the risk of wound complications but is associated with a lower patency rate and increased rates of subsequent revascularization procedures. Standardization of the endovascular technique and quantification of the proportions of patients suitable for either technique are required. Endovascular lower patency [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dear Editor, Olmsted syndrome (OS) is a rare inherited disorder characterized by mutilating palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) and periorificial keratotic plaques with varying degrees of itching and pain.[1] Diffuse alopecia or curly sparse hair is a common feature of OS.[1] Our research, and the work of others, has previously demonstrated that mutations in I TRPV3 i cause autosomal dominant, recessive and semidominant OS.[[2]] Mutations in I MBTPS2 i have also been reported to underlie X-linked recessive OS.[5] Very recently, Duchatelet I et al i .[6] reported a new autosomal dominant form of OS caused by mutations in the I PERP i gene. In conclusion, we report a severe case of OS caused by a heterozygous I PERP i mutation and confirm that mutations in the specific region of PERP protein is the third genetic cause of OS. [Extracted from the article]

Background Epidemiological data evaluating sleep problems in clinical nurses in mainland China are scarce and an association between sleep problems and occupational stress has not been investigated. Aims To assess the prevalence of sleep problems and associated factors and determine their association with occupational stress among clinical nurses in general hospitals. Methods Nurses were selected through random cluster sampling. They answered a self-administered questionnaire, which included sociodemographic and occupational variables, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scoring system and the Job Content Questionnaire for evaluating occupational stress. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate factors associated with sleep problems. Results There were 5012 participants. Mean PSQI score of 4951 subjects included in the final analysis was 7.32 ± 3.24, with 2713 subjects having PSQI ≥8, accounting for 55% of participants. Female subjects in the intensive care unit and emergency departments were at higher risk of sleep problems. The following factors also presented a risk for sleep problems: multiple years of service, high monthly night shift frequency, primary and intermediate professional status, temporary employment status and high occupational stressors (including high psychological job demands, low job control and low workplace's social support). Conclusions The overall prevalence rate of sleep problems among clinical nurses in general hospitals in mainland China was high. Many factors could affect the sleep quality of nurses, although occupational stress facilitates development of sleep problems. Various risk factors associated with sleep problems among nurses should be studied extensively and measures for relieving occupational stress should be undertaken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The KIT gene plays an important role in the pathogenesis of malignant melanoma (MM). In recent years, activating mutations in KIT have been recognized as oncogenic. A number of therapies have been established, which provide significant clinical benefits for patients with MM with KIT mutations. Thus, detection of KIT mutations can have profound therapeutic implications. Aim. To investigate KIT gene expression in MMs in Chinese Uyghur and Han patients with mutations in KIT, and to identify the clinical features associated with KIT mutations and c-KIT expression. Methods. In total, 105 MMs (56 from Uyghur and 49 from Han patients) were selected from patients in the Uyghur Autonomous region. Formalin-fixed, paraffin wax-embedded tumour sections were analysed for c-KIT expression using immunohistochemistry. Exons 11 and 13 of KIT were analysed for the presence of mutations using PCR amplification and DNA sequencing. Results. Of the 105 MMs, 13 (10 Han and 3 Uyghur) were found to have mutations in KIT. Thus, the frequency of KIT mutations in Han patients was significantly higher than that in Uyghur patients (P = 0.02). We detected c-KIT expression in 71.4% and 42.9% of the tumour tissue samples collected from the Uyghur and Han patients, respectively. Conclusion. In the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in China, chronic suninduced damage MM is the most prevalent MM among Chinese Uyghur patients, whereas acral and mucosal MMs are the most prevalent in Uyghur patients. Mutations in the KIT gene do not correlate with c-KIT expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Xeroderma pigmentosum ( XP) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by extreme sensitivity to sunlight, freckle-like pigmentation and a greatly increased incidence of skin cancers. Genetic mutation detection and genotype-phenotype analysis of XP are rarely reported in the Chinese Han population. Objectives To investigate the mutational spectrum of XP in a Chinese Han population, to discover any genotype-phenotype correlation and, consequently, to propose a simple and effective tool for the molecular diagnosis of XP. Methods This study was carried out on 12 unrelated Chinese families that included 13 patients with clinically suspected XP. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples. Mutation screening was performed by direct sequencing of exons and flanking intron-exon boundaries for the entire coding region of eight XP genes. Results In 12 patients, direct sequencing of the whole coding region of eight XP genes revealed pathogenic mutations, including seven compound heterozygous mutations, three homozygous mutations and a Japanese founder mutation. Thirteen mutations have not been previously identified. This cohort was composed of four patients with XP-C ( XPC), two with XP-G ( ERCC5), three with XP-A ( XPA) and three with XP-V ( POLH). Conclusions This study identified 13 novel mutations and extended the mutation spectrum of XP in the Chinese Han population. In this cohort, we found that patients with XP-G have no neurological symptoms, and patients with XP-A and XP-V have a high incidence of malignancy. Furthermore, lack of stringent protection against sunlight, late diagnosis and long duration of disease play an important role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of maternal malnutrition of ruminants and effects on development of the immune system of their offspring is lacking. A study was conducted to investigate the effects of maternal protein or energy restriction during late gestation on immune status of their offspring at different ages. Sixty-three pregnant goats (local breed, Liuyang black goat, 22.2 ± 1.5 kg at d 90 of gestation) were fed control (CON, ME = 9.34 MJ/kg and CP = 12.5%, DM basis), 40% protein restricted (PR), or 40% energy restricted (ER) diets from d 91 of gestation to parturition, after which all animals received an adequate diet for nutritional recovery. Plasma concentrations of complement components (C3, C4), C-reactive protein (CRP) and immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM), jejunum cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10) expression levels and morphology in the offspring were measured. Additionally, plasma concentration of complement and IL-6, and cytokines expression levels in gastrointestinal tract obtained at 6 wk from young goats were assessed under saline or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenging conditions. Maternal PR or ER decreased (P < 0.05) plasma C3, C4, IgG, and IgM concentrations, and IL-2 and IL-6 mRNA expression in the jejunum from neonatal kids, but did not alter (P > 0.05) plasma CRP concentration. The IL-10 mRNA expression of jejunum from PR kids was also less (P < 0.01) than that from CON kids. Moreover, jejunum villous height (P < 0.10 in PR, P < 0.05 in ER) and crypt depth (P < 0.05 both in PR and ER) were reduced in neonatal kids from malnourished mothers. At 6 wk of age, there were no differences (P > 0.05) in any plasma or tissue immune parameters among the 3 treatments. However, when given a LPS challenge, ER and PR kids had greater (P = 0.02) IL-6 concentration compared with CON kids. Our results suggest that both PR and ER during late gestation induced short-term as well as long-lasting alterations on immune responses in their offspring, which may make the animals more susceptible to a bacterial pathogen challenge. The present findings expand the existing knowledge in immunological mechanisms responsible for the development of disease in later life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deinococcus radiodurans strain R1 utilizes multiple antioxidants including a unique carotenoid, deinoxanthin, to fight again oxidative stress. Most of the enzymes involved in the deinoxanthin biosynthetic pathway have been identified. However, the enzyme catalysing the synthesis of geranylgeranyl diphosphate ( GGPP), which is a precursor of carotenoid biosynthesis, has yet to be identified. Two putative isoprenyl diphosphate synthases ( IPPS) homologues ( DR1395 and DR932) were screened out by analysis of conserved amino acid regions, and their biochemical functions were investigated. Gene mutation, gene expression in Escherichia coli and analysis of carotenoid products were used to investigate the functions of these candidates. The results suggested that DR1395 encodes the protein for GGPP synthesis. Site-directed mutant analysis indicated that the amino acid composition of and around the first aspartate-rich motif is vital for GGPP synthase function. Significance and Impact of the Study Deinococcus radiodurans strain R1 produces a unique carotenoid product, deinoxanthin, as an antioxidant. In this study, DR1395 was identified as the gene encoding geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase ( GGPPS) for entrance to deinoxanthin biosynthesis in D. radiodurans. Moreover, site-directed mutagenesis studies on DR1395 identified the effect of amino acid composition of the aspartate-rich motif on the production of this carotenoid. This study demonstrated the entrance step in the deinoxanthin biosynthetic pathway. These results can be useful in genetic engineering strategies for deinoxanthin production including enhancement of GGPPS gene expression in D. radiodurans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal malnutrition can have temporary or long-lasting effects on development and physiological function of offspring. Our objective was to investigate whether maternal protein or energy restriction in late gestation affects the antioxidant status of plasma, immune organs (thymus and spleen), and natural barrier organs (jejunum) in neonatal goats and whether the effects could be reversed after nutritional recovery. Forty-five pregnant goats (Liuyang Blacks) of similar age (2.0 ± 0.3 yr) and BW (22.2 ± 1.5 kg at d 90 of gestation) were assigned to 3 dietary treatments during late gestation: control (ME = 9.34 MJ/kg and CP = 12.5%, DM basis), 40% protein restricted (PR), and 40% energy restricted (ER) until parturition, after which offspring received the normal diet for nutritional recovery. Plasma and tissues of kids were sampled to determine antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and catalase (CAT)] and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (Cu/Zn-SOD [SOD1], CAT, and peroxiredoxin 2 [PRDX2]). Maternal protein or energy restriction decreased (P < 0.05) SOD activities in plasma, liver, thymus, and spleen and SODI expression in thymus, and maternal energy restriction also decreased (P < 0.05) plasma GSH-Px activity and expressions of SODI and CAT in liver at birth. After nutritional recovery of 6 wk, SOD activities in thymus (both in PR and ER) and spleen (only in PR) were greater (P < 0.05), but CAT activity of thymus (both in PR and ER) and CAT expression (only in ER) were less (P < 0.01) than those in control. After nutritional recovery of 22 wk, SODI and PRDX2 expression in thymus (both in PR and ER) and SODI expression in liver (only in ER) were greater (P < 0.05) whereas CAT expression in thymus (both in PR and ER) was less (P < 0.001) than in control. The current results indicate that maternal protein or energy restriction can decrease the antioxidant capacity of the neonatal kids and result in an imbalance of SOD and hydrogen peroxide-inactivating systems in thymus, even after 6 or 22 wk of nutritional recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computed tomography (CT) dose reporting software facilitates the estimation of doses to patients undergoing CT examinations. In this study, comparison of three software packages, i.e. CT-Expo (version 1.5, Medizinische Hochschule, Hannover, Germany), ImPACT CT Patients Dosimetry Calculator (version 0.99×, Imaging Performance Assessment on Computed Tomography, www.impactscan.org) and WinDose (version 2.1a, Wellhofer Dosimetry, Schwarzenbruck, Germany), has been made in terms of their calculation algorithm and the results of calculated doses. Estimations were performed for head, chest, abdominal and pelvic examinations based on the protocols recommended by European guidelines using single-slice CT (SSCT) (Siemens Somatom Plus 4, Erlangen, Germany) and multi-slice CT (MSCT) (Siemens Sensation 16, Erlangen, Germany) for software-based female and male phantoms. The results showed that there are some differences in final dose reporting provided by these software packages. There are deviations of effective doses produced by these software packages. Percentages of coefficient of variance range from 3.3 to 23.4 % in SSCT and from 10.6 to 43.8 % in MSCT. It is important that researchers state the name of the software that is used to estimate the various CT dose quantities. Users must also understand the equivalent terminologies between the information obtained from the CT console and the software packages in order to use the software correctly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary CT angiography has been increasingly used in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease owing to rapid technological developments, which are reflected in the improved spatial and temporal resolution of the images. High diagnostic accuracy has been achieved with multislice CT scanners (64 slice and higher), and in selected patients coronary CT angiography is regarded as a reliable alternative to invasive coronary angiography. With high-quality coronary CT imaging increasingly being performed, patients can benefit from an imaging modality that provides a rapid and accurate diagnosis while avoiding an invasive procedure. Despite the tremendous contributions of coronary CT angiography to cardiac imaging, study results reported in the literature should be interpreted with caution as there are some limitations existing within the study design or related to patient risk factors. In addition, some attention must be given to the potential health risks associated with the ionising radiation received during cardiac CT examinations. Radiation dose associated with coronary CT angiography has raised serious concerns in the literature, as the risk of developing malignancy is not negligible. Various dose-saving strategies have been implemented, with some of the strategies resulting in significant dose reduction. The aim of this review is to present an overview of the role of coronary CT angiography on cardiac imaging, with focus on coronary artery disease in terms of the diagnostic and prognostic value of coronary CT angiography. Various approaches for dose reduction commonly recommended in the literature are discussed. Limitations of coronary CT angiography are identified. Finally, future directions and challenges with the use of coronary CT angiography are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of dietary alkyl polyglycoside [APG, a nonionic surfactant (NIS), derived from a reaction of corn starch glucose and a natural fatty alcohol] inclusion on digestion of nutrients and ruminal fermentation in goats were examined in a 4 × 4 Latin square design using 4 ruminally and duodenally cannulated wethers (mean BW: 19.5 ± 0.8 kg). The animals were assigned to 4 dietary treatments of APG supplementation at 0, 3, 6, and 12 g/kg of DM diets and were designated as control, APG3, APG6, and APG12, respectively. The results showed that dietary APG inclusion tended to increase the intestinal digestibility of OM (linear, P = 0.09) and NDF (linear, P = 0.1), and quadratically increased (P ≤ 0.02) total tract digestibility of OM and NDF, the duodenal microbial N flow, and efficiency of microbial protein synthesis. The true ruminal digestibility and apparent total tract digestibility of N quadratically increased (P < 0.01) with increasing dietary APG. The ruminal pH values were not affected by dietary APG inclusion (P> 0.05), but the concentration of NH3-N (P < 0.01) and total VFA (linear and quadratic, P < 0.01) increased in the rumen fluid. Dietary APG inclusion also increased the activities of ruminal carboxymethyl cellulase (quadratic, P < 0.01) and xylanase (linear and quadratic, P < 0.01). It is concluded that APG is a potential feed additive that can be used in ruminant production; 6 g/kg in the total mixed rations for goats is recommended. It is necessary to validate the effectiveness of dietary APG inclusion in ruminant diets with more animals in further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major purpose of this study was to determine the effects of procyanidins extracted from the lotus seedpod on cAMP-response element-binding protein phosphorylation in hippocampus and cerebral cortex in cognitively impaired aged rats. Based on Morris water maze, aged unimpaired and aged impaired rats were chosen from aged rats. Comparing with young and aged unimpaired animals, aged impaired rats exhibited significant reduction in hippocampal but not cortical cAMP-response element-binding phosphorylation states as well as brain-derived neurotrophic factor messenger RNA and protein expressions, which were accompanied by decreased phosphorylation states of hippocampal extracellular signal-related kinase (42/44) and calcium calmodulin kinase IV. Lotus seedpod supplementation (50 and 100 mg/kg body weight intragastric administration) for 7 weeks significantly reversed all these declines happened in hippocampus except calcium calmodulin kinase IV phosphorylation levels. These results suggested that lotus seedpod might enhance cAMP-response element-binding-dependent transcription through the activation of extracellular signal-related kinase signalling pathway, which might contribute to its ameliorative effects on cognitive deficits in aged impaired animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immunomodulatory ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may be used to develop therapies for autoimmune diseases. Flk-1+ MSCs are a population of MSCs with defined phenotype and their safety has been evaluated in Phase 1 clinical trials. We designed this study to evaluate whether Flk-1+ MSCs conferred a therapeutic effect on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), an animal model of rheumatic arthritis, and to explore the underlying mechanisms. Flk-1+ MSCs, 1–2 × 106, were injected into CIA mice on either day 0 or day 21. The clinical course of arthritis was monitored. Serum cytokine profile was determined by cytometric bead array kit or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Flk-1+ MSCs and splenocytes co-culture was conducted to explore the underlying mechanisms. Flk-1+ MSCs did not confer therapeutic benefits. Clinical symptom scores and histological evaluation suggested aggravation of arthritis in mice treated with MSCs at day 21. Serum cytokine profile analysis showed marked interleukin (IL)-6 secretion immediately after MSC administration. Results of in vitro culture of splenocytes confirmed that the addition of Flk-1+ MSCs promoted splenocyte proliferation and increased IL-6 and IL-17 secretion. Moreover, splenocyte proliferation was also enhanced in mice treated with MSCs at day 21. Accordingly, MSCs at low concentrations were found to promote lipopolysaccharide-primed splenocytes proliferation in an in vitro co-culture system. We propose that Flk-1+ MSCs aggravate arthritis in CIA model by at least up-regulating secretion of IL-6, which favours Th17 differentiation. When Flk-1+ MSCs are used for patients, we should be cautious about subjects with rheumatoid arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alleviative effect of procyanidins extracted from the lotus seedpod (LSPC) on oxidative stress in various tissues was evaluated by determining the activities of the antioxidant enzymes and the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) in heart, liver, lung, kidney, skeletal muscle, and serum in aged rats. Aging led to antioxidant deficit in various tissues in this study, which is confirmed by remarkable increased lipid peroxidation, whereas the change patterns of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and GSH were diverse in various tissues of aged rats. LSPC treatment (50 and 100 mg/kg body weight) modified the activity of SOD, CAT, and GPx as well as GSH content alteration in these tissues, which reversed the age-related antioxidant deficit in aged rats. However, the regulatory patterns on the activities of these enzymes and GSH content by LSPC treatment were different according to the tissues in aged rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To evaluate the antioxidant effect of carotenoids from Deinococcus radiodurans on protein. Methods and Results: Deinococcus radiodurans strain R1 (ATCC 13939) and its mutant strain R1ΔcrtB were used for this study. The total carotenoids (R1ex) from D. radiodurans were obtained by extraction with acetone/methanol (7 : 2, by vol), and their antioxidant activity was measured using the DPPH˙ (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) system. The protein oxidation level, in vitro and in the cell, was measured using the DNPH (2,4-dinitrophenyl hydrazine) method. The carotenoid extract R1ex scavenged 40·2% DPPH˙ radicals compared to β-carotene (31·7%) at a concentration of 0·5 mg ml−1. The intracellular level of protein oxidation in mutant R1ΔcrtB, which does not contain carotenoid, was 0·0212 mmol mg−1 protein which is significantly greater than that in the wild type (0·0169 mmol mg−1 protein) following the treatment with H2O2. The purified major carotenoid product (deinoxanthin) from the wild type showed a greater inhibition of oxidative damage in bovine serum albumin than lycopene or lutein. Conclusions: Carotenoids prevent protein oxidation and contribute to the resistance to cell damage in D. radiodurans. Significance and Impact of the Study: Our results provide the evidence that carotenoids can protect proteins in D. radiodurans against oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of 3 nonionic surfactants (NIS), including alkyl polyglucoside (APG), sorbitan trioleate (Span85), and polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate (Tween80), on in vitro fermentation characteristics of maize stover, rice straw, and wheat straw were examined using an in vitro gas production technique. Four levels each of APG, Span85, and Tween80 [0, 9.02, 0.05, and 0.1% (vol/vol) of incubation solution] were tested in a 4 x 4 x 4 factorial arrangement. The NIS generally increased the in vitro maximal gas production (A), but decreased the lag time of cereal straws. The effects of NIS on the rate of gas production (B) were related to the surfactant type and fermented substrate. The NIS generally increased IVDMD and in vitro OM disappearance (IVOMD) of cereal straws, but responses were dose dependent. The NIS increased total VFA concentration of in vitro fermentation supernatant for maize stover and wheat straw, but decreased total VFA concentration for rice straw. The effects of NIS on the molar proportions of acetate, propionate, and butyrate were dependent on the dose and type of NIS and on fermented substrate. Several interactive effects were noted between or among 3 surfactants (APG, Span85, and Tween80) on in vitro gas production variables, IVDMD, IVOMD, and VFA for each straw; the optimal combinations of 2 or 3 types of NIS were determined according to the responses of IVDMD and IVOMD to NIS addition. The results of this study suggest that NIS may improve in vitro fermentation of low quality roughages and have potential application as feed additives in ruminant production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Recent studies revealed that immune and immune-mediated inflammatory events may contribute to the pathogenesis of haemangioma. As a modulator of immune responses, the allograft inflammatory factor-1 (AIF-1) is involved in immune dysfunction and macrophage activation. Objective To investigate the possible role of AIF-1 in the progression of haemangioma. Methods In a retrospective study of haemangiomas in the oral and facial regions, we assessed lesional immunoreactivities for AIF-1, CD68 and Ki67. Negative controls were similarly confirmed, including 24 pyogenic granulomas, 26 vascular malformations, five samples of normal skin, 10 squamous cell carcinomas of the tongue and three placentas. Immunostaining for each antigen in the haemangiomas was compared with control tissues. Results Out of all the samples, intense immunoreactivity for AIF-1 was detected in 17 of 19 (89%) haemangioma specimens, with a specific location in the endothelial cells. The intensity of AIF-1 immunostaining did not show remarkable difference among proliferating, involuting and involuted haemangiomas. CD68-positive endothelial cells were found in the neovessels of haemangiomas, as well as in pyogenic granulomas and squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusions The exclusive expression of AIF-1 on endothelial cells of haemangiomas suggests that it may play a significant role in the pathophysiology and progression of haemangiomas. AIF-1 can be used as an additional biomarker for infantile haemangiomas. CD68-positive cells participate in the neovessel formation during proliferative haemangioma and contribute to the promotion of haemangioma growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of yeast culture and fibrolytic enzyme preparation (containing cellulase and xylanase) on in vitro fermentation characteristics of rice straw, wheat straw, maize stover, and maize stover silage were examined using an in vitro gas production technique. Four levels of yeast culture and fibrolytic enzyme supplements (0, 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 g/kg of straw DM, respectively) were tested in a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement. Supplementation of yeast culture increased the cumulative gas production, theoretical maximum of gas production, rate of gas production, IVDMD, and in vitro OM disappearance (IVOMD), and decreased the lag time for each type of straw. Fibrolytic enzyme supplementation tended to increase cumulative gas production, theoretical maximum of gas production, and rate of gas production; prolonged lag time of gas production; and enhanced IVDMD and IVOMD for 4 types of cereal straws, with the significance of this effect being dependent on the level of supplemented enzymes. There were significant interactions between fibrolytic enzymes and yeast on all in vitro gas production parameters, WDMD, and IVOMD of each type of straw. The outcome of this research indicated that the application of fibrolytic enzyme preparation and yeast culture could improve in vitro gas production fermentation of cereal straws. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an inherited autosomal dominant disorder. Haematoma is an unusual complication of neurofibromatosis and extremely rare in the maxillofacial region. A case of haematoma in NF1 of the left face is presented. MR images of acute haematoma in NF1 and radiographic features of the mandible are described. Stenosis of the internal jugular vein was noted in MR angiography (MRA). Surgical resection of the tumour and evacuation of blood clots were performed. Histological and immunohistochemical examination demonstrated that the neurofibroma tumour cells infiltrated the mural layer of vessels without malignant translation. MRI is a good choice for depicting haematoma in neurofibromatosis. Intratumour haemorrhage may result from the infiltration of vessels into the lesion and minor trauma on the affected area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of supplementation of various sources of Met and Lys on nutrient digestion, N utilization, and duodenal AA flows in growing goats. Four 4-mo-old Liuyang Black weather goats were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square experiment and were assigned to 4 dietary treatments: (1) control, (2) control + lipid-coated Met-Zn chelate and Lys-Mn chelate (PML), (3) control + Met-Zn chelate and Lys-Mn chelate (CML), and (4) control + DL-Met, L-Lys-HC1, ZnSO4·7H2O, and MnSO4·H2O (FML). Compared with control, PML reduced (P < 0.05) ruminal NH3 concentration, urinary N excretion, and plasma urea N concentration and increased (P < 0.05) the activity of ruminal endo-1,4-β-D-glucanase and β-glucosidase, the duodenal flow of N, N retention (g/d as well as % of absorbed N), the duodenal flows of Met, Lys, His, Val, and total essential AA, and plasma concentrations of Lys, Val, Phe, and total essential AA. Supplementing Zn-Met and Mn-Lys chelates had similar (P > 0.05) but lesser effects on these measures compared with PML, and the effects on most of the measures were not statistically significant (P > 0.05) when compared with control. Supplementing free-form Met and Lys had no effects compared with control (P > 0.05). The results indicate that lipid coating and chelating of AA provide a protection, and to a lesser extent by only chelating, of the AA from microbial degradation in the rumen and possibly has effects on rumen fermentation, which increases MP supply. This technology could improve productive performance and be of potential benefit to ruminant production if cost-effective products are developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To develop and evaluate a novel genotypic test for rapid detection of rifampicin and isoniazid resistance of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates by a multiplex probe array. Methods and Results: A multiplex probe array was designed for genotypic test to simultaneously screen the mutations of rpoB, katG, inhA and ahpC genes, associated with rifampin and isoniazid resistance in M. tuberculosis, with a probe detecting one of the recently confirmed genetic markers of isoniazid resistance ahpC-6 and -9 locus added. By using the genotypic test developed, 52 MDR isolates were identified, among which 46 isolates had mutations in rpoB (88·5%) and 45 at codon 315 of katG, regulatory region of inhA and oxyR- ahpC intergenic region (86·5%), whereas all 35 susceptible isolates identified showed a wild-type hybridization pattern. The sensitivity and specificity were 88·5% and 100% for rifampicin resistance, and 86·5% and 100% for isoniazid resistance, respectively. Conclusion: A rapid and simultaneous detection of rifampicin and isoniazid resistance caused by the mutations of rpoB, katG, inhA and ahpC genes in M. tuberculosis isolates could be achieved by a multiplex probe array developed. Significance and Impact of the Study: This genotypic test protocol has the potential to be developed on clinical application for the rapid detection of drug resistant M. tuberculosis isolates before an efficient chemotherapy is initiated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated the influence of the macrolides erythromycin and josamycin on the selection of resistant oral streptococci by sampling saliva of volunteers before and after oral administration of 1.5 g of either agent followed by a further 0.5 g of the same drug after 6 h, as in routine prophylaxis for oral or dental procedures. The small proportion of resistant organisms present before antibiotic administration increased substantially 48 h after the macrolides were given. After antibiotic administration mean counts of oral streptococci resistant to 1, 4 and 64 mg/l erythromycin were 23%, 17% and 6%, respectively, of the total numbers of streptococci isolated; after josamycin, the values were 13%, 6% and 4% respectively. The proportion of resistant streptococci then declined gradually but remained above pre-antibiotic levels three months later. Streptococci isolated on media containing 64 mg/l of macrolides were mainly Streptococcus sanguis and S. mitis with one isolate of S. salivarius; the majority were resistant to 256 mg/l erythromycin, josamycin, all other macrolides tested and clindamycin. Amoxycillin and pristinamycin were the only compounds tested that were inhibitory to these organisms at therapeutically attainable concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tolerance and pharmacokinetics of erythromycin stearate and josamycin base were compared in healthy dental students. The efficacy and tolerance of the two antibiotics were compared in the prevention of bacteraemia following dental extraction. Erythromycin achieved higher serum levels at the time of extraction in dental patients than did josamycin. Erythromycin was rapidly and better absorbed than josamycin in the student volunteers, but josamycin caused less gastrointestinal side effects than erythromycin. Both antibiotics were only marginally more effective than placebo in preventing bacteraemia following dental extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parosteal lipoma is an unusual kind of lipoma and occurs in intimate association with the underlying periostium of the bone. Parosteal lipomas mostly affect the long bones and involvement of the mandible is rare. We report a case of ossifying parosteal lipoma of the mandible in which CT was effective in diagnosis and showed a well-circumscribed mass of fat attenuation containing areas of ossification and branch-like bony protuberances from adjacent cortical bone. Microscopic examination revealed that the mass was composed of mature fat cells without nuclear hyperchromasia or atypia. Layers of bone and ossification were found inside. Although rare, it should be considered as a differential diagnosis of teratoma, osteochondroma and osteosarcoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Use of the World Wide Web (WWW) and electronic media to facilitate medical care has been the subject of many reports in the popular press. However, few reports have documented the results of implementing electronic health portals for essential medical tasks, such as prescription refills and appointments.Methods: At Walter Reed Army Medical Center, "Search & Learn" medical information, Internet-based prescription refills and patient appointments were established in January 2001. A multiphase retrospective analysis was conducted to determine the use of the "Search & Learn" medical information and the relative number of prescription refills and appointments conducted via the WWW compared with conventional methods.Results: From January 2001 to May 2002, there were 34,741 refills and 819 appointments made over the Internet compared with 2,275,112 refills and approximately 500,000 appointments made conventionally. WWW activity accounted for 1.52% of refills and 0.16% of appointments. There was a steady increase in this percentage over the time of the analysis. In April of 2002, the monthly average of online refills had risen to 4.57% and online appointments were at 0.27%. Online refills were projected to account for 10% of all prescriptions in 2 years. The "Search & Learn" medical information portion of our web site received 147,429 unique visits during this same time frame, which was an average of 326 visitors per day.Conclusions: WWW-based methods of conducting essential medical tasks accounted for a small but rapidly increasing percentage of total activity at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Subsequent phases of analysis will assess demographic and geographic factors and aid in the design of future systems to increase use of the Internet-based systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]