Posts


The role of the distinct disciplines, actors, and their interactions throughout the process from crop choice through to adoption by farmers is discussed and illustrated.
Diagnostics to identify tuberculosis infection are limited. We aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy and safety of the novel ESAT6-CFP10 (EC) skin test for tuberculosis infection in Chinese adults.

We conducted two randomized, parallel-group clinical trials in healthy participants and tuberculosis patients. All participants were tested with the T-SPOT.TB test, then received EC skin test and tuberculin skin test (TST). The diameter of skin indurations and/or redness at injection sites were measured at different time periods. A Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) model was also established to assess the diagnosis of tuberculosis infection using EC skin test.

In total, 777 healthy participants and 96 tuberculosis patients were allocated to receive the EC skin test at 1.0μg/0.1ml or 0.5μg/0.1ml. The area under the curve was 0.95 (95% CI, 0.91-0.97) from the EC skin test at a dose of 1.0μg/0.1ml at 24-72 hours. Compared to the T-SPOT.TB test, the EC skin test demonstrated similar sensitivity (87.5, 95% CI 77.8-97.2 versus 86.5, 95% CI 79.5-93.4) and specificity (98.9, 95% CI 96.0-99.9 versus 96.1, 95% CI 93.5-97.8). Among BCG vaccinated participants, the EC skin test had high consistency with the T-SPOT.TB test (96.3, 95% CI, 92.0-100.0). No serious adverse events related to the EC skin test were observed.

The EC skin test demonstrated both high specificity and sensitivity at a dose of 1.0μg/0.1ml, comparable to the T-SPOT.TB test. The diagnostic accuracy of the EC skin test was not impacted by BCG vaccination.
The EC skin test demonstrated both high specificity and sensitivity at a dose of 1.0μg/0.1ml, comparable to the T-SPOT.TB test. The diagnostic accuracy of the EC skin test was not impacted by BCG vaccination.
Since the turn of the century, cardiac surgery has evolved quite notably. This study sought to investigate the trends in aortic valve surgery activity and subsequent outcomes in the UK by using a mandatory national cardiac surgical clinical database within the context of a comprehensive public healthcare system (National Health Service).

The UK National Adult Cardiac Surgery Audit database provided data for aortic valve surgery procedures performed between 2002 and 2016, and the data were validated and cleaned using reproducible algorithms. The findings and trends in in activity and outcomes were then analysed by financial year.

During the study period, a total of 148 862 procedures were performed, with the number of cases per year peaking in 2014/2015 at 12 483. The mean in-hospital mortality rate for all aortic valve surgery has fallen from 5.6% to 3.4%, despite an increase in patient age and mean logistic EuroSCORE. While the number of isolated aortic valve replacements has remained stable at around 5000 per year, aortic valve replacement and coronary artery bypass graft have increased to over 3200 with transcatheter aortic valve implantation activity continuing to increase.

This study demonstrates that despite an increase in patient risk profile, there has been a consistent reduction in in-hospital mortality within all aortic valve surgery procedures performed in the UK over a 15-year period. Increasing catheter-based interventions have not yet resulted in a significant decrease in surgical aortic valve replacements in the UK.
This study demonstrates that despite an increase in patient risk profile, there has been a consistent reduction in in-hospital mortality within all aortic valve surgery procedures performed in the UK over a 15-year period. Increasing catheter-based interventions have not yet resulted in a significant decrease in surgical aortic valve replacements in the UK.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation and tissue destruction. Immune responses mediated by T cells and autoantibodies are known to play critical roles in RA. Collagen type II (CII)-induced arthritis (CIA) is a commonly used animal model of human RA. We have previously reported the identification of a new T cell inhibitory molecule CD300c. Here we investigate the ability of recombinant CD300c-IgG2a Fc (CD300c-Ig) fusion protein to prevent and treat CIA.

Mice were induced to develop CIA by CII and injected with CD300c-Ig or control Ig protein before or after CIA symptoms occur. The mice were examined for CIA clinical and pathological scores, and analyzed for the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, the percentage and activation of CD4 T cells and regulatory T cells, CII-specific T cell proliferation and cytokine production, and CII-specific autoantibody production.

In a prevention model, CD300c-Ig significantly decreases CIA incidence, and reduces clinical and pathological arthritis scores. In the treatment model, CD300c-Ig ameliorates established CIA. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/10074-g5.html The beneficial effects of CD300c-Ig are related to decreased expansion and activation of T cells in the spleen and reduced expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the joints. CD300c-Ig also inhibits CII-specific T cell proliferation and Th1 and Th17 cytokine production. In addition, CD300c-Ig treatment reduced the production of CII autoantibodies in the serum. Furthermore, CD300c-Ig inhibits the proliferation and activation of T cells from RA patients in vitro.

CD300c-Ig protein has the potential to be used in the treatment of patients with RA.
CD300c-Ig protein has the potential to be used in the treatment of patients with RA.
Unanticipated cancellation of a surgical procedure is a common problem, causing distress to the patient and increases in healthcare costs. However, limited evidence exists on the effects of last-minute cancellations of cardiothoracic surgical procedures in particular. The goal of this study was to gain insight into the prevalence of and the reasons for last-minute cancellations and to examine whether cancellation is associated with adverse medical outcomes.

Patients who were scheduled for elective cardiothoracic surgical procedures between January 2017 and June 2019 were evaluated. The reasons for the cancellations were assigned to the categories medically related or process related. We examined the differences in patient characteristics between those designated as no cancellation, medically related cancellations and process-related cancellations. Lastly, we examined the outcomes of patients who experienced a last-minute cancellation of a scheduled operation.

A total of 2111 patients were included; of these, 301 (14.

1 hr ago


Based on combined morphological and osteological characters and molecular phylogenetics, we describe a new species of the genus Elaphe that was discovered from the south slope of the Qinling Mountains, Shaanxi, China, namely Elaphe xiphodonta sp. nov. It is distinguished from the other congeners by a combination of the following characters dorsal scales in 21-21-17 rows, the medial 11 rows keeled; 202-204 ventral scales, 67-68 subcaudals; two preoculars (including one subpreocular); two postoculars; two anterior temporals, three posterior temporals; reduced numbers of maxillary teeth (9+2) and dentary teeth (12); sharp cutting edges on the posterior or posterolateral surface of the rear maxillary teeth and dentary teeth; dorsal head yellow, three distinct markings on the head and neck; a distinct black labial spot present in supralabials; dorsum yellow, 46-49 complete (or incomplete) large black-edged reddish brown blotches on the body and 12-19 on the tail, two rows of smaller blotches on each ventrolateral side; ventral scales yellow with mottled irregular black blotches, a few irregular small red spots dispersed on the middle of the ventral. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses, the new species forms the sister taxon to E. zoigeensis. The discovery of this new species increases the number of the recognized species in the genus Elaphe to 17.With a Nearctic distribution, the family Cambaridae harbors a high species richness in Mexico, which is also evident along the Pánuco River catchment. A series of surveys carried on in five populations from the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve in the State of Querétaro resulted in localizing a putative new species for science. A molecular phylogenetic study and species delimitation analyses including all the known Procambarus species from the Pánuco River catchment were conducted based on three mitochondrial genes (16S rDNA, 12S rDNA, and COI; 2,462 bp in total). Phylogeny recovered all species as monophyletic, including the populations under study. All delimitation results based on barcoding, ABGD, GMYC, bPTP, and gonopod differentiation agree in the recognition of a new taxon, to which the name Procambarus xihui sp. nov. is given, and its diagnosis and description are provided. The new species can be distinguished from the remaining species in the genus, among other characters, by a unique configuration of the terminal elements of the first pleopod of form I male, which includes a central projection lamellate, hood-like, forming a concave blade-like structure mesially directed, as well as a caudal process crest-like, mesiodistally directed, forming a lateral side of the concavity.
Phenological studies are a prerequisite for accomplishing higher productivity and better crop quality in cultivated plants. However, there are no phenological studies on
that improve its production yield. This study aims to redefine the phenological growth stages of
based on the existing Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie (BBCH) scale and proposes a disease control reference.

This study was conducted at the Korea Ginseng Corporation Experiment Station in Gyeonggi province, South Korea. Phenological observations were performed once weekly or twice monthly, based on the developmental stages. The existing BBCH scale with a three-digit code was used to redefine and update
's phenological growth codes.

The phenological description is divided into eight principal growth stages three for vegetative growth (perennating bud, aerial shoot, and root development), four for reproductive growth (reproductive organ development, flowering, fruit development, and fruit maturation), and one for senescence according to the extended BBCH scale. A total of 58 secondary growth stages were described within the eight principal growth stages. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/PD-0332991.html Under each secondary growth stage, four mesostages are also taken into account, which contains the distinct patterns of the phenological characteristics in ginseng varieties and the process of transplanting seedlings. A practical management program for disease control was also proposed by using the BBCH code and the phenological data proposed in this work.

The study introduces an extended BBCH scale for the phenological research of
.
The study introduces an extended BBCH scale for the phenological research of P. ginseng.
This study aimed to investigate the effect of cold plasma treatment on the improvement of seed germination and surface sterilization of ginseng seeds.

Dehisced ginseng (
) seeds were exposed to dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma operated in argon (Ar) or an argon/oxygen mixture (Ar/O
), and the resulting germination and surface sterilization were compared with those of an untreated control group. Bacterial and fungal detection assays were performed for plasma-treated ginseng seeds after serial dilution of surface-washed suspensions. The microbial colonies (fungi and bacteria) were classified according to their phenotypical morphologies and identified by molecular analysis. Furthermore, the effect of cold plasma treatment on the
antifungal activity and suppression of
in 4-year-old ginseng root discs was investigated.

Seeds treated with plasma in Ar or Ar/O
exhibited a higher germination rate (%) compared with the untreated controls. Furthermore, the plasma treatment exhibited bactericidal and fungicidal effects on the seed surface, and the latter effect was stronger than the former. In addition, plasma treatment exhibited
antifungal activity against
and reduced the disease severity (%) of root rot in 4-year-old ginseng root discs. The results demonstrate the stimulatory effect of plasma treatment on seed germination, surface sterilization, and root rot disease suppression in ginseng.

The results of this study indicate that the cold plasma treatment can suppress the microbial community on the seed surface root rot in ginseng.
The results of this study indicate that the cold plasma treatment can suppress the microbial community on the seed surface root rot in ginseng.
Gintonin is a newly derived glycolipoprotein from the roots of ginseng. The purpose of this study is to investigate the anti-arthritic efficacy of Gintonin on various proteases and inflammatory mediators that have an important role in arthritis.

Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) were treated with Gintonin and stimulated with interleukin (IL)-1β 1 hour later. The antioxidant effect of Gintonin was measured using MitoSOX and H
DCFDA experiments. The anti-arthritic efficacy of Gintonin was examined by analyzing the expression levels of inflammatory mediators using RT-PCR, western blot, and ELISA. The phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)/p65 into the nucleus were also analyzed using western blot, ELISA, and immunocytochemistry. Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice model was used. Mice were orally administered with Gintonin (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) every 2 days for 45 days. The body weight, arthritis score, squeaking score, and paw volume were measured as the behavioral parameters.

2 hrs ago


Oleuropein (OL), an olive tree secoiridoid and its peracetylated derivate (Per-OL) have exhibited several beneficial effects on LPS-stimulated macrophages and murine experimental systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study was designed to evaluate dietary Per-OL in comparison with OL supplementation effects on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) murine model. Three-weeks-old DBA-1/J male mice were fed from weaning with a standard commercial diet or experimental enriched-diets in 0.05 % (w/w) OL, 0.05% and 0.025% Per-OL. After six weeks of pre-treatment, arthritis was induced by bovine collagen type II by tail base injection (day 0) and on day 21, mice received a booster injection. Mice were sacrificed 42 days after the first immunization. Both Per-OL and OL diets significantly prevented histological damage and arthritic score development, although no statistically significant differences were observed between both compounds. Also, serum collagen oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), metalloprotease (MMP)-3 and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were ameliorated in paws from secoiridoids fed animals. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK)s and nuclear transcription factor-kappa-B (NF-κB) activations were drastically down-regulated whereas nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expressions were up-regulated in those mice fed with OL and Per-OL diets. We conclude that both Per-OL and its parent compound, OL, supplements might provide a basis for developing a new dietary strategy for the prevention of rheumatoid arthritis.The research aimed to determine the tensile bond strength (TBS) between polymerized intact and ground fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) surfaces. FRC prepregs (a reinforcing fiber pre-impregnated with a semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN) resin system; everStick C&B) were divided into two groups intact FRCs (with a highly PMMA-enriched surface) and ground FRCs (with a low PMMA gradient). Each FRC group was treated with StickRESIN and G-Multi PRIMER. These groups were further divided into four subgroups based on the application time of the treatment agents 0.5, 1, 2, and 5 min. Next, a resin luting cement was applied to the FRC substrates on the top of the photo-polymerized treating agent. Thereafter, weight loss, surface microhardness, and TBS were evaluated. Three-factor analysis of variance (p ≤ 0.05) revealed significant differences in the TBS among the FRC groups. The highest TBS was recorded for the intact FRC surface treated with G-Multi PRIMER for 2 min (13.0 ± 1.2 MPa). The monomers and solvents of G-Multi PRIMER showed a time-dependent relationship between treatment time and TBS. They could diffuse into the FRC surface that has a higher PMMA gradient, further resulting in a high TBS between the FRC and resin luting cement.This study aimed to characterize the honeys of Babors Kabylia through sensory, melissopalynological and physico-chemical parameters. Thirty samples of honey produced in this region were collected over a period of two years and analyzed. All the samples presented physico-chemical parameters in conformity with legislation on honey quality, with few exceptions, linked mainly to beekeeping management. The pollen spectrum revealed a great diversity with 96 pollen types. The main pollen types were spontaneous species as Fabaceae (Hedysarum, Trifolium, Genisteae plants), Asteraceae plants, Ericaceae (Erica arborea L.) or Myrtus and Pistacia. The sensory properties of samples showed a high tendency to crystallization, the colors were from white to brown, but most of them had gold color. Smell and odor corresponded mainly to vegetal and fruity families and in taste perceptions besides sweetness highlighted sourness and saltiness notes. Seventeen samples were polyfloral, one was from honeydew and twelve were monofloral from heather, genista plants, sulla, blackberry or Asteraceae. Heather and the honeydew samples showed the darkest color, the highest electrical conductivity and phenol and flavonoid content. A statistical analysis based on the most representative pollen types, sensory properties and some physico-chemical components allowed the differentiation of honey samples in terms of botanical origin.Patients harbouring mutations in genes encoding C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP; NPPC) or its receptor guanylyl cyclase B (GC-B, NPR2) suffer from severe growth phenotypes; loss-of-function mutations cause achondroplasia, whereas gain-of-function mutations cause skeletal overgrowth. Although most of the effects of CNP/GC-B on growth are mediated directly on bone, evidence suggests the natriuretic peptides may also affect anterior pituitary control of growth. Our previous studies described the expression of NPPC and NPR2 in a range of human pituitary tumours, normal human pituitary, and normal fetal human pituitary. However, the natriuretic peptide system in somatotropes has not been extensively explored. Here, we examine the expression and function of the CNP/GC-B system in rat GH3 somatolactotrope cell line and pituitary tumours from a cohort of feline hypersomatotropism (HST; acromegaly) patients. Using multiplex RT-qPCR, all three natriuretic peptides and their receptors were detected in GH3 cells. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/cd38-inhibitor-1.html The expl targets for CNP action in somatotropes.Psychological interventions are proposed to cancer survivors to support their quality of life against the emotional trauma of cancer and the side effects of treatment. Psychological interventions often require patient engagement and commitment to activities that could be more or less demanding in terms of lifestyle change (e.g., psychotherapy, sports). Analyzing participant motivations (personal aims, expectations, needs) prior to participation is useful to predict their adherence to the intervention as well as final outcomes. Yet, participant motivations may evolve during the intervention because the intervention experience turns out to be meaningful and positively challenging. The present study aimed to obtain a preliminary understanding of the process of motivation change in female cancer survivors who participated in a sport-based intervention to promote quality of life by employing a grounded theory approach. Data analysis took place alongside data collection and according to the procedure of grounded theory ("open coding", "axial coding", and "selective coding") in order to describe the process of motivation change during women's participation in psychological intervention for quality of life.

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Posts


The role of the distinct disciplines, actors, and their interactions throughout the process from crop choice through to adoption by farmers is discussed and illustrated.
Diagnostics to identify tuberculosis infection are limited. We aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy and safety of the novel ESAT6-CFP10 (EC) skin test for tuberculosis infection in Chinese adults.

We conducted two randomized, parallel-group clinical trials in healthy participants and tuberculosis patients. All participants were tested with the T-SPOT.TB test, then received EC skin test and tuberculin skin test (TST). The diameter of skin indurations and/or redness at injection sites were measured at different time periods. A Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) model was also established to assess the diagnosis of tuberculosis infection using EC skin test.

In total, 777 healthy participants and 96 tuberculosis patients were allocated to receive the EC skin test at 1.0μg/0.1ml or 0.5μg/0.1ml. The area under the curve was 0.95 (95% CI, 0.91-0.97) from the EC skin test at a dose of 1.0μg/0.1ml at 24-72 hours. Compared to the T-SPOT.TB test, the EC skin test demonstrated similar sensitivity (87.5, 95% CI 77.8-97.2 versus 86.5, 95% CI 79.5-93.4) and specificity (98.9, 95% CI 96.0-99.9 versus 96.1, 95% CI 93.5-97.8). Among BCG vaccinated participants, the EC skin test had high consistency with the T-SPOT.TB test (96.3, 95% CI, 92.0-100.0). No serious adverse events related to the EC skin test were observed.

The EC skin test demonstrated both high specificity and sensitivity at a dose of 1.0μg/0.1ml, comparable to the T-SPOT.TB test. The diagnostic accuracy of the EC skin test was not impacted by BCG vaccination.
The EC skin test demonstrated both high specificity and sensitivity at a dose of 1.0μg/0.1ml, comparable to the T-SPOT.TB test. The diagnostic accuracy of the EC skin test was not impacted by BCG vaccination.
Since the turn of the century, cardiac surgery has evolved quite notably. This study sought to investigate the trends in aortic valve surgery activity and subsequent outcomes in the UK by using a mandatory national cardiac surgical clinical database within the context of a comprehensive public healthcare system (National Health Service).

The UK National Adult Cardiac Surgery Audit database provided data for aortic valve surgery procedures performed between 2002 and 2016, and the data were validated and cleaned using reproducible algorithms. The findings and trends in in activity and outcomes were then analysed by financial year.

During the study period, a total of 148 862 procedures were performed, with the number of cases per year peaking in 2014/2015 at 12 483. The mean in-hospital mortality rate for all aortic valve surgery has fallen from 5.6% to 3.4%, despite an increase in patient age and mean logistic EuroSCORE. While the number of isolated aortic valve replacements has remained stable at around 5000 per year, aortic valve replacement and coronary artery bypass graft have increased to over 3200 with transcatheter aortic valve implantation activity continuing to increase.

This study demonstrates that despite an increase in patient risk profile, there has been a consistent reduction in in-hospital mortality within all aortic valve surgery procedures performed in the UK over a 15-year period. Increasing catheter-based interventions have not yet resulted in a significant decrease in surgical aortic valve replacements in the UK.
This study demonstrates that despite an increase in patient risk profile, there has been a consistent reduction in in-hospital mortality within all aortic valve surgery procedures performed in the UK over a 15-year period. Increasing catheter-based interventions have not yet resulted in a significant decrease in surgical aortic valve replacements in the UK.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation and tissue destruction. Immune responses mediated by T cells and autoantibodies are known to play critical roles in RA. Collagen type II (CII)-induced arthritis (CIA) is a commonly used animal model of human RA. We have previously reported the identification of a new T cell inhibitory molecule CD300c. Here we investigate the ability of recombinant CD300c-IgG2a Fc (CD300c-Ig) fusion protein to prevent and treat CIA.

Mice were induced to develop CIA by CII and injected with CD300c-Ig or control Ig protein before or after CIA symptoms occur. The mice were examined for CIA clinical and pathological scores, and analyzed for the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, the percentage and activation of CD4 T cells and regulatory T cells, CII-specific T cell proliferation and cytokine production, and CII-specific autoantibody production.

In a prevention model, CD300c-Ig significantly decreases CIA incidence, and reduces clinical and pathological arthritis scores. In the treatment model, CD300c-Ig ameliorates established CIA. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/10074-g5.html The beneficial effects of CD300c-Ig are related to decreased expansion and activation of T cells in the spleen and reduced expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the joints. CD300c-Ig also inhibits CII-specific T cell proliferation and Th1 and Th17 cytokine production. In addition, CD300c-Ig treatment reduced the production of CII autoantibodies in the serum. Furthermore, CD300c-Ig inhibits the proliferation and activation of T cells from RA patients in vitro.

CD300c-Ig protein has the potential to be used in the treatment of patients with RA.
CD300c-Ig protein has the potential to be used in the treatment of patients with RA.
Unanticipated cancellation of a surgical procedure is a common problem, causing distress to the patient and increases in healthcare costs. However, limited evidence exists on the effects of last-minute cancellations of cardiothoracic surgical procedures in particular. The goal of this study was to gain insight into the prevalence of and the reasons for last-minute cancellations and to examine whether cancellation is associated with adverse medical outcomes.

Patients who were scheduled for elective cardiothoracic surgical procedures between January 2017 and June 2019 were evaluated. The reasons for the cancellations were assigned to the categories medically related or process related. We examined the differences in patient characteristics between those designated as no cancellation, medically related cancellations and process-related cancellations. Lastly, we examined the outcomes of patients who experienced a last-minute cancellation of a scheduled operation.

A total of 2111 patients were included; of these, 301 (14.

1 hr ago


Based on combined morphological and osteological characters and molecular phylogenetics, we describe a new species of the genus Elaphe that was discovered from the south slope of the Qinling Mountains, Shaanxi, China, namely Elaphe xiphodonta sp. nov. It is distinguished from the other congeners by a combination of the following characters dorsal scales in 21-21-17 rows, the medial 11 rows keeled; 202-204 ventral scales, 67-68 subcaudals; two preoculars (including one subpreocular); two postoculars; two anterior temporals, three posterior temporals; reduced numbers of maxillary teeth (9+2) and dentary teeth (12); sharp cutting edges on the posterior or posterolateral surface of the rear maxillary teeth and dentary teeth; dorsal head yellow, three distinct markings on the head and neck; a distinct black labial spot present in supralabials; dorsum yellow, 46-49 complete (or incomplete) large black-edged reddish brown blotches on the body and 12-19 on the tail, two rows of smaller blotches on each ventrolateral side; ventral scales yellow with mottled irregular black blotches, a few irregular small red spots dispersed on the middle of the ventral. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses, the new species forms the sister taxon to E. zoigeensis. The discovery of this new species increases the number of the recognized species in the genus Elaphe to 17.With a Nearctic distribution, the family Cambaridae harbors a high species richness in Mexico, which is also evident along the Pánuco River catchment. A series of surveys carried on in five populations from the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve in the State of Querétaro resulted in localizing a putative new species for science. A molecular phylogenetic study and species delimitation analyses including all the known Procambarus species from the Pánuco River catchment were conducted based on three mitochondrial genes (16S rDNA, 12S rDNA, and COI; 2,462 bp in total). Phylogeny recovered all species as monophyletic, including the populations under study. All delimitation results based on barcoding, ABGD, GMYC, bPTP, and gonopod differentiation agree in the recognition of a new taxon, to which the name Procambarus xihui sp. nov. is given, and its diagnosis and description are provided. The new species can be distinguished from the remaining species in the genus, among other characters, by a unique configuration of the terminal elements of the first pleopod of form I male, which includes a central projection lamellate, hood-like, forming a concave blade-like structure mesially directed, as well as a caudal process crest-like, mesiodistally directed, forming a lateral side of the concavity.
Phenological studies are a prerequisite for accomplishing higher productivity and better crop quality in cultivated plants. However, there are no phenological studies on
that improve its production yield. This study aims to redefine the phenological growth stages of
based on the existing Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie (BBCH) scale and proposes a disease control reference.

This study was conducted at the Korea Ginseng Corporation Experiment Station in Gyeonggi province, South Korea. Phenological observations were performed once weekly or twice monthly, based on the developmental stages. The existing BBCH scale with a three-digit code was used to redefine and update
's phenological growth codes.

The phenological description is divided into eight principal growth stages three for vegetative growth (perennating bud, aerial shoot, and root development), four for reproductive growth (reproductive organ development, flowering, fruit development, and fruit maturation), and one for senescence according to the extended BBCH scale. A total of 58 secondary growth stages were described within the eight principal growth stages. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/PD-0332991.html Under each secondary growth stage, four mesostages are also taken into account, which contains the distinct patterns of the phenological characteristics in ginseng varieties and the process of transplanting seedlings. A practical management program for disease control was also proposed by using the BBCH code and the phenological data proposed in this work.

The study introduces an extended BBCH scale for the phenological research of
.
The study introduces an extended BBCH scale for the phenological research of P. ginseng.
This study aimed to investigate the effect of cold plasma treatment on the improvement of seed germination and surface sterilization of ginseng seeds.

Dehisced ginseng (
) seeds were exposed to dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma operated in argon (Ar) or an argon/oxygen mixture (Ar/O
), and the resulting germination and surface sterilization were compared with those of an untreated control group. Bacterial and fungal detection assays were performed for plasma-treated ginseng seeds after serial dilution of surface-washed suspensions. The microbial colonies (fungi and bacteria) were classified according to their phenotypical morphologies and identified by molecular analysis. Furthermore, the effect of cold plasma treatment on the
antifungal activity and suppression of
in 4-year-old ginseng root discs was investigated.

Seeds treated with plasma in Ar or Ar/O
exhibited a higher germination rate (%) compared with the untreated controls. Furthermore, the plasma treatment exhibited bactericidal and fungicidal effects on the seed surface, and the latter effect was stronger than the former. In addition, plasma treatment exhibited
antifungal activity against
and reduced the disease severity (%) of root rot in 4-year-old ginseng root discs. The results demonstrate the stimulatory effect of plasma treatment on seed germination, surface sterilization, and root rot disease suppression in ginseng.

The results of this study indicate that the cold plasma treatment can suppress the microbial community on the seed surface root rot in ginseng.
The results of this study indicate that the cold plasma treatment can suppress the microbial community on the seed surface root rot in ginseng.
Gintonin is a newly derived glycolipoprotein from the roots of ginseng. The purpose of this study is to investigate the anti-arthritic efficacy of Gintonin on various proteases and inflammatory mediators that have an important role in arthritis.

Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) were treated with Gintonin and stimulated with interleukin (IL)-1β 1 hour later. The antioxidant effect of Gintonin was measured using MitoSOX and H
DCFDA experiments. The anti-arthritic efficacy of Gintonin was examined by analyzing the expression levels of inflammatory mediators using RT-PCR, western blot, and ELISA. The phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)/p65 into the nucleus were also analyzed using western blot, ELISA, and immunocytochemistry. Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice model was used. Mice were orally administered with Gintonin (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) every 2 days for 45 days. The body weight, arthritis score, squeaking score, and paw volume were measured as the behavioral parameters.

2 hrs ago


Oleuropein (OL), an olive tree secoiridoid and its peracetylated derivate (Per-OL) have exhibited several beneficial effects on LPS-stimulated macrophages and murine experimental systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study was designed to evaluate dietary Per-OL in comparison with OL supplementation effects on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) murine model. Three-weeks-old DBA-1/J male mice were fed from weaning with a standard commercial diet or experimental enriched-diets in 0.05 % (w/w) OL, 0.05% and 0.025% Per-OL. After six weeks of pre-treatment, arthritis was induced by bovine collagen type II by tail base injection (day 0) and on day 21, mice received a booster injection. Mice were sacrificed 42 days after the first immunization. Both Per-OL and OL diets significantly prevented histological damage and arthritic score development, although no statistically significant differences were observed between both compounds. Also, serum collagen oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), metalloprotease (MMP)-3 and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were ameliorated in paws from secoiridoids fed animals. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK)s and nuclear transcription factor-kappa-B (NF-κB) activations were drastically down-regulated whereas nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expressions were up-regulated in those mice fed with OL and Per-OL diets. We conclude that both Per-OL and its parent compound, OL, supplements might provide a basis for developing a new dietary strategy for the prevention of rheumatoid arthritis.The research aimed to determine the tensile bond strength (TBS) between polymerized intact and ground fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) surfaces. FRC prepregs (a reinforcing fiber pre-impregnated with a semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN) resin system; everStick C&B) were divided into two groups intact FRCs (with a highly PMMA-enriched surface) and ground FRCs (with a low PMMA gradient). Each FRC group was treated with StickRESIN and G-Multi PRIMER. These groups were further divided into four subgroups based on the application time of the treatment agents 0.5, 1, 2, and 5 min. Next, a resin luting cement was applied to the FRC substrates on the top of the photo-polymerized treating agent. Thereafter, weight loss, surface microhardness, and TBS were evaluated. Three-factor analysis of variance (p ≤ 0.05) revealed significant differences in the TBS among the FRC groups. The highest TBS was recorded for the intact FRC surface treated with G-Multi PRIMER for 2 min (13.0 ± 1.2 MPa). The monomers and solvents of G-Multi PRIMER showed a time-dependent relationship between treatment time and TBS. They could diffuse into the FRC surface that has a higher PMMA gradient, further resulting in a high TBS between the FRC and resin luting cement.This study aimed to characterize the honeys of Babors Kabylia through sensory, melissopalynological and physico-chemical parameters. Thirty samples of honey produced in this region were collected over a period of two years and analyzed. All the samples presented physico-chemical parameters in conformity with legislation on honey quality, with few exceptions, linked mainly to beekeeping management. The pollen spectrum revealed a great diversity with 96 pollen types. The main pollen types were spontaneous species as Fabaceae (Hedysarum, Trifolium, Genisteae plants), Asteraceae plants, Ericaceae (Erica arborea L.) or Myrtus and Pistacia. The sensory properties of samples showed a high tendency to crystallization, the colors were from white to brown, but most of them had gold color. Smell and odor corresponded mainly to vegetal and fruity families and in taste perceptions besides sweetness highlighted sourness and saltiness notes. Seventeen samples were polyfloral, one was from honeydew and twelve were monofloral from heather, genista plants, sulla, blackberry or Asteraceae. Heather and the honeydew samples showed the darkest color, the highest electrical conductivity and phenol and flavonoid content. A statistical analysis based on the most representative pollen types, sensory properties and some physico-chemical components allowed the differentiation of honey samples in terms of botanical origin.Patients harbouring mutations in genes encoding C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP; NPPC) or its receptor guanylyl cyclase B (GC-B, NPR2) suffer from severe growth phenotypes; loss-of-function mutations cause achondroplasia, whereas gain-of-function mutations cause skeletal overgrowth. Although most of the effects of CNP/GC-B on growth are mediated directly on bone, evidence suggests the natriuretic peptides may also affect anterior pituitary control of growth. Our previous studies described the expression of NPPC and NPR2 in a range of human pituitary tumours, normal human pituitary, and normal fetal human pituitary. However, the natriuretic peptide system in somatotropes has not been extensively explored. Here, we examine the expression and function of the CNP/GC-B system in rat GH3 somatolactotrope cell line and pituitary tumours from a cohort of feline hypersomatotropism (HST; acromegaly) patients. Using multiplex RT-qPCR, all three natriuretic peptides and their receptors were detected in GH3 cells. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/cd38-inhibitor-1.html The expl targets for CNP action in somatotropes.Psychological interventions are proposed to cancer survivors to support their quality of life against the emotional trauma of cancer and the side effects of treatment. Psychological interventions often require patient engagement and commitment to activities that could be more or less demanding in terms of lifestyle change (e.g., psychotherapy, sports). Analyzing participant motivations (personal aims, expectations, needs) prior to participation is useful to predict their adherence to the intervention as well as final outcomes. Yet, participant motivations may evolve during the intervention because the intervention experience turns out to be meaningful and positively challenging. The present study aimed to obtain a preliminary understanding of the process of motivation change in female cancer survivors who participated in a sport-based intervention to promote quality of life by employing a grounded theory approach. Data analysis took place alongside data collection and according to the procedure of grounded theory ("open coding", "axial coding", and "selective coding") in order to describe the process of motivation change during women's participation in psychological intervention for quality of life.

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Additionally, it also reduced ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and IP-10 expression in the joints, and M-134 increased the efficacy of tofacitinib by regulating various cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-17, and TNF-α, in the serum of AIA rats. Differences in the cytokine expression for each drug were found in the CIA model.

M-134 and tofacitinib combination therapy is a potential option for the treatment of RA through the regulation of cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules.
M-134 and tofacitinib combination therapy is a potential option for the treatment of RA through the regulation of cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules.Isoorientin (ISO), a natural flavonoid compound, has been identified in several plants and its biological activity is determined and the study on lowering uric acid has not been reported. In view of the current status of treatment of hyperuricemia, we evaluated the hypouricemic effects of ISO in vivo and in vitro, and explored the underlying mechanisms. Yeast extract-induced hyperuricemia animal model as well as hypoxanthine and xanthine oxidase (XOD) co-induced high uric acid L-O2 cell model and enzymatic experiments in vitro were selected. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/Dexamethasone.html The XOD activity and uric acid (UA) level were inhibited after the treatment of ISO in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, serum creatinine (CRE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were also significantly reduced and liver damage was recovered in pathological histology after the ISO administration in hyperuricemia animal model. The results of mechanism illustrated that protein expressions such as XOD, toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), cathepsin B (CTSB), NLRP3, and its downstream caspase-1 as well as interleukin-18 (IL-18) were markedly downregulated by ISO intervention in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest that ISO exerts a urate-lowering effect through inhibiting XOD activity and regulating TLR4-NLRP3 inflammasome signal pathway, thus representing a promising candidate therapeutic agent for hyperuricemia. Both animal models and in vitro experiments suggested that ISO may effectively lower uric acid produce. The mechanism might be the inhibition of XOD activity and NLRP3 inflammasome of upregulation.Sweet sorghum bagasse (SSB) is an under-utilized feedstock for biochemical conversion to biofuels or high value chemicals. One such chemical that can be generated biochemically and applied to a wide array of industries from pharmaceuticals to the production of liquid transportation fuels is butyric acid. This work investigated cultivating the butyric acid producing strain Clostridium tyrobutyricum ATCC 25755 on low-moisture anhydrous ammonia (LMAA) pretreated SSB. Pretreated SSB hydrolysate was detoxified and supplemented with urea for shake flask batch fermentation to show that up to 11.4 g/L butyric acid could be produced with a selectivity of 87% compared to other organic acids. Bioreactor fermentation with pH control showed high biomass growth, but a similar output of 11.3 g/L butyric acid was achieved. However, the butyric acid productivity increased to 0.251 g/L∙hr with a butyric acid yield of 0.29 g/g sugar consumed. This butyric acid output represented an 83% theoretical yield. Further improvements in butyric acid titer and yield can be achieved by optimizing nutrient supplementation and incorporating fed-batch fermentation processing of pretreated SSB hydrolysate. Construction of ZGOSr NR- and ZGC@PDA NP-driven ratiometric aptasensor for CEA detection.This research study evaluates various pre-treatments to improve sewage sludge solubilization prior to treatment by mesophilic anaerobic digestion. Microwave, thermal, and sonication pre-treatments were compared as these pre-treatments are the most commonly used for this purpose. The solubilization of sewage sludge was evaluated through the variation in soluble total organic carbon (sTOC, mg/L) and soluble total nitrogen (sTN, mg/L). Thermal and microwave pre-treatments increased sTOC/VS by 19.2% and 83.4% (VS, total volatile solids), respectively, after applying lower specific energy through (20 kJ/g TS, approximately) (TS, total solids) unlike the sonication pre-treatment, which required 136 kJ/g TS. Although sTN content did not increase significantly with the pre-treatments with respect to sTOC, both showed proportional trends. Sonication pre-treatments allowed the highest increase in volatile fatty acids (VFA) with respect to the raw sewage sludge (15% ∆VFA/sTOC). Methane production with and without pre-treatment was also evaluated. Methane production increased by 95% after applying sonication pre-treatment compared to the methane production of raw sewage sludge. Thermal and microwave pre-treatments entailed lower improvements (29% and 20%, respectively). Economically, thermal pre-treatments were the most viable alternative at real scale. Graphical abstract.Biocatalysis using molecular oxygen as the electron acceptor has significant potential for selective oxidations at low cost. However, oxygen is poorly soluble in water, and its slow rate of mass transfer in the aqueous phase is a major obstacle, even for laboratory-scale syntheses. Oxygen transfer can be accelerated by vigorous mechanical methods, but these are often incompatible with biological catalysts. Gentler conditions can be achieved with shallow, high surface area bag reactors that are designed for single use and generally for specialized cell culture applications. As a less-expensive alternative to these high-end bioreactors, we describe repurposing inflatable shipping pillows with resealable valves to provide high surface area mixing under oxygen for preparative synthesis of glucosone (D-arabino-hexos-2-ulose) from D-glucose using non-growing Escherichia coli whole cells containing recombinant pyranose 2-oxidase (POX) as catalyst. Parallel reactions permitted systematic study of the effects of headspace composition (i.e., air vs 100% oxygen), cell density, exogenous catalase, and reaction volume in the oxidation of 10% glucose. Importantly, only a single charge of 100% oxygen is required for stoichiometric conversion on a multi-gram scale in 18 h with resting cells, and the conversion was successfully repeated with recycled cells.

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Bilateral masticatory muscle palpation pain had strong association to a poor outcome that was related to the diagnoses disc displacement and osteoarthritis. CIA and the patient-reported variable TMJ disability might be related to an unfavourable outcome according to the multivariate model. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/cdk2-inhibitor-73.html These findings of surgical predictors show potential in aiding clinical decision-making and they might enhance the understanding of aetiopathogenesis in TMJ disorders.Cerebral metabolic dysfunction has been shown to extensively mediate the pathophysiology of brain injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The characterization of the alterations of metabolites in the brain can help elucidate pathophysiological changes occurring throughout SAH and the relationship between secondary brain injury and cerebral energy dysfunction after SAH. Cerebral microdialysis (CMD) is a tool that can measure concentrations of multiple bioenergetics metabolites in brain interstitial fluid. This review aims to provide an update on the implication of CMD on the measurement of metabolic dysfunction in the brain after SAH. A literature review was conducted through a general PubMed search with the terms "Subarachnoid Hemorrhage AND Microdialysis" as well as a more targeted search using MeSh with the search terms "Subarachnoid hemorrhage AND Microdialysis AND Metabolism." Both experimental and clinical papers were reviewed. CMD is a suitable tool that has been used for monitoring cerebral metaboldetermine the severity of brain injury and predict the pathological progression and outcomes after SAH. More translational preclinical investigations and clinical validation may help to optimize CMD as a powerful tool in critical care and personalized medicine for patients with SAH.Several studies have emphasized the heterogeneity of fibromyalgia patients. Furthermore, fibromyalgia patients are considered a high-risk suicide group. The ideation-to-action framework proposes a set of transdiagnostic psychological factors involved in the development of suicidal ideation. The present study aims to explore the existence of different subgroups according to their vulnerability to suicidal ideation through these transdiagnostic psychological variables and a set of variables typically associated with fibromyalgia. In this cross-sectional study, 151 fibromyalgia patients were assessed through the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale, Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, Defeat Scale, Entrapment Scale, Psychache Scale, and Beck Hopelessness Scale. A K-means cluster analysis identified two clusters, one (45.70%) according to a low vulnerability, and a second (54.30%) with a high vulnerability to suicidal ideation. These clusters showed statistically significant differences in suicidal ideation and suicide risk. However, no differences were observed in most socio-demographic variables. In conclusion, fibromyalgia patients who present a clinical condition characterized by a moderate-high degree of physical dysfunction, overall disease impact and intensity of fibromyalgia-associated symptoms, along with a high degree of perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, defeat, entrapment, psychological pain and hopelessness, form a homogeneous group at high risk for suicidal ideation.This study was conducted using the Q methodology to categorize Korean older persons' subjective perceptions of home visiting oral health care services. Various opinions regarding home visiting oral health care services were collected based on related literature, and by conducting in-depth interviews with 12 people. Thirty-two statements were finally selected, and Q classification was applied. Based on data analysis with the PC-QUANL program, six factors (seven types) were derived, which accounted for 49.6% of the total variance. By comprehensive analysis of the types of subjective perceptions of home visiting oral health care services, the following two characteristics were identified. Korean older persons were expected to promote their own oral health activities, or improved access to expert health care services, through the home visiting oral health care services. Additionally, they had a need for social, economic, emotional, and informational support. Therefore, home visiting dental personnel should be able to provide customized visiting oral health care services based on evaluation of the need and type of perception of older persons. Thus, it is essential for visiting dental personnel to be trained in the knowledge of social welfare, and to develop diverse competencies.A deep understanding of the genetic control of drought tolerance and iron deficiency tolerance is essential to hasten the process of developing improved varieties with higher tolerance through genomics-assisted breeding. In this context, an improved genetic map with 1205 loci was developed spanning 2598.3 cM with an average 2.2 cM distance between loci in the recombinant inbred line (TAG 24 × ICGV 86031) population using high-density 58K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) "Axiom_Arachis" array. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis was performed using extensive phenotyping data generated for 20 drought tolerance- and two iron deficiency tolerance-related traits from eight seasons (2004-2015) at two locations in India, one in Niger, and one in Senegal. The genome-wide QTL discovery analysis identified 19 major main-effect QTLs with 10.0-33.9% phenotypic variation explained (PVE) for drought tolerance- and iron deficiency tolerance- related traits. Major main-effect QTLs were detected for haulm weight (20.1% PVE), SCMR (soil plant analytical development (SPAD) chlorophyll meter reading, 22.4% PVE), and visual chlorosis rate (33.9% PVE). Several important candidate genes encoding glycosyl hydrolases; malate dehydrogenases; microtubule-associated proteins; and transcription factors such as MADS-box, basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH), NAM, ATAF, and CUC (NAC), and myeloblastosis (MYB) were identified underlying these QTL regions. The putative function of these genes indicated their possible involvement in plant growth, development of seed and pod, and photosynthesis under drought or iron deficiency conditions in groundnut. These genomic regions and candidate genes, after validation, may be useful to develop molecular markers for deploying genomics-assisted breeding for enhancing groundnut yield under drought stress and iron-deficient soil conditions.