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Excavating the quantitative trait locus (QTL) associated with rice cooking quality, analyzing candidate genes, and improving cooking quality-associated traits of rice varieties by genetic breeding can effectively improve the taste of rice. In this study, we used the indica rice HZ, the japonica rice Nekken2 and 120 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) populations constructed from them as experimental materials to measure the gelatinization temperature (GT), gel consistency (GC) and amylose content (AC) of rice at the maturity stage. We combined the high-density genetic map for QTL mapping. A total of 26 QTLs associated with rice cooking quality (1 QTL associated with GT, 13 QTLs associated with GC, and 12 QTLs associated with AC) were detected, among which the highest likelihood of odd (LOD) value reached 30.24. The expression levels of candidate genes in the localization interval were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and it was found that the expression levels of six genes were significantly different from that in parents. It was speculated that the high expression of LOC_Os04g20270 and LOC_Os11g40100 may greatly increase the GC of rice, while the high expression of LOC_Os01g04920 and LOC_Os02g17500 and the low expression of LOC_Os03g02650 and LOC_Os05g25840 may reduce the AC. The results lay a molecular foundation for the cultivation of new high-quality rice varieties, and provide important genetic resources for revealing the molecular regulation mechanism of rice cooking quality.
Subject(s)
Quantitative Trait Loci , Oryza/genetics , Plant Breeding , Cooking , Genetic Association StudiesABSTRACT
ObjectiveTo establish an allele-specific polymerase chain reaction （PCR） method for identifying Scolopendra dispensing granules， so as to ensure the quality and therapeutic effects of Scolopendra and its preparations. MethodThe primer interval suitable for the PCR was selected based on the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 3（COX-3） gene sequence of Scolopendra， and the single nucleotide polymorphism （SNP） loci of Scolopendra and its adulterants were mined from the interval for the design of specific primers. The samples of Scolopendra and its adulterants were collected. The PCR system was established and optimized regarding the annealing temperature， cycles， Taq enzymes， DNA template amount， PCR instruments， and primer concentrations， and the specificity and applicability of this method were evaluated. ResultThe PCR system was composed of 12.5 μL 2×M5 PCR Mix， 0.4 μL forward primer （10 μmol·L-1）， 0.4 μL reverse primer （10 μmol·L-1）， 2.5 μL DNA template， and 9.2 μL sterile double distilled water. PCR parameters： Pre-denaturation at 94 ℃ for 3 min， 30 cycles （94 ℃ for 20 s， 62 ℃ for 20 s， 72 ℃ for 45 s）， and extension at 72 ℃ for 5 min. After PCR amplification with the system and parameters above， the electrophoresis revealed a bright band at about 135 bp for Scolopendra and no band for the adulterants. ConclusionThe established allele-specific PCR method can accurately identify the medicinal materials， decoction pieces， and standard decoction freeze-dried powder of Scolopendra， as well as the intermediates and final products of Scolopendra dispensing granules， which is of great significance for ensuring the quality and clinical efficacy of Scolopendra and its preparations.
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Abstract The incorporation of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine into the Argentine National Immunization Program in 1998 resulted in a dramatic decrease in the incidence of invasive disease due to this serotype. We assessed 1405 H. influenzae (Hi) isolates causing invasive infections referred to the National Reference Laboratory between 2011 and 2019. Non-encapsulated Hi were the most common strains (44.5%), followed by types b (41.1%) and a (10.0%). Significant increase in the proportion of type b was observed, from 31.2% in 2011, to 50% in 2015, correlating with the peak incidence rate, later decreasing to 33.6% by 2019. We compared the genetic relationship between clones circulating during the period of increased Hib incidence (2011-2015) and those of the prevaccination-transition period (1997-1998). Four pulsotypes predominated in both periods, G, M, P and K, G being the most common. Multilocus sequence typing revealed that the 4 pulsotypes belonged to ST6, or one of its simple or double locus variants. Isolates from fully vaccinated individuals did not differ from those of the rest of the population studied. After ruling out aspects associated with emergence of specific clones, we concluded that factors such as low booster coverage rates, delayed vaccination schedules and use of different vaccines may have contributed to the reemergence of Hib infections.
Resumen La introducción de la vacuna contra Haemophilus influenzae tipo b (Hib) en el Programa Nacional de Inmunización de Argentina en 1998 produjo una drástica disminución de la incidencia de enfermedad invasiva causada por este serotipo. En el Laboratorio Nacional de Referencia se estudiaron 1405 aislamientos de H. influenzae causantes de enfermedad invasiva recibidos en el período 2011-2019. H. influenzae no capsulado fue el más frecuente (44,5%), seguido por los tipos b (41,1%) y a (10,0%). Se observó un aumento significativo de la proporción del tipo b, de 31,2% en 2011 a 50% en 2015, que se correlacionó con un pico de incidencia en ese mismo año. Hacia 2019, descendió a 33,6%. Con el objetivo de evaluar los clones circulantes durante el incremento de la proporción de Hib y comparar con el período prevacunal-transición, se determinó la relación genética de una selección de aislamientos de los períodos 1997-1998 y 2011-2015. El análisis por PFGE mostró 4 pulsotipos predominantes en los 2 períodos, G, M, P y K, y el pulsotipo G fue mayoritario en ambos períodos. Por MLST se demostró que los 4 pulsotipos pertenecieron al ST6 o sus variantes (simple o doble locus). Entre los aislamientos de pacientes con vacunación completa no se hallaron clones diferentes respecto del resto de la población. Se postula que las coberturas de vacunación no satisfactorias en las dosis de refuerzo, los esquemas atrasados y el uso de diferentes vacunas pudieron haber contribuido a la reemergencia de Hib.
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Background At present, insufficient support for enterprise health environment and career development may lead to severe depressive emotion among occupational groups. Objective To investigate current state of depressive emotion and the relationship between health literacy and depressive emotion among occupational groups in Shanghai, and to provide evidence for formulating health management measures to alleviate depressive emotion among the occupational population. Methods This cross-sectional survey, using two-stage stratified sampling, was from December 2022 to February 2023, and selected 2548 active workers from 151 enterprises in Shanghai. A total of 2489 valid questionnaires were returned, with a recovery rate of 97.68%. Health literacy, internality health locus of control, and depressive emotion were evaluated by the Health Literacy Questionnaire, the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale-Internality Health Locus of Control, and the Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale-9 item (PHQ-9), respectively. R 4.2.2 software was used for statistical analysis, binary logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between health literacy, internality health locus of control, and the risk of depressive emotion, and multiple linear model was used to analyze the correlation between health literacy, internality health locus of control, and PHQ-9 related indicators (total score, affective score, and somatic score). Results A total of 2489 workers aged 18 years and above in Shanghai were included in the analysis, 868 of them reported depressive emotion, and the positive rate of depressive emotion was 34.9%. The total score, affective score, and somatic score of PHQ-9 in M(P25, P75) were 3.00 (0.00, 6.00), 1.00 (0.00, 4.00), and 1.00 (0.00, 3.00), respectively. The results of binary multiple logistic regression analysis showed that after adjusting for selected confounders, no health literacy (OR=1.32, 95%CI: 1.10, 1.60; P=0.004) and low level of internality health locus of control (OR=1.66, 95%CI: 1.35, 2.05; P < 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of reporting depressive emotion. The results of multiple linear model showed that the lack of health literacy and low internality health locus of control were positively correlated with the total score, affective score, and somatic score of PHQ-9. Conclusion Depressive emotion among the working population in Shanghai is prominent, and more than 1/3 of them report depressive emotion. Lower health literacy and internality health locus of control are related to an increased risk of depressive emotion in the study population. Improving occupational health literacy and enhancing internality health locus of control are expected to prevent depressive emotion in occupational groups.
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Maculopathy caused by various fundus diseases in the late stage is a common cause of low vision. Medical technology is difficult to reverse the loss of macular function currently, so interventions that help improve the visual system, utilize residual visual function, and improve quality of life deserve attention. Damage to the fovea of the macula does not mean that the entire retinal function is impaired. There may be one or more retinal regions adjacent to the fovea that can serve as a fixation center. It is possible to form stable paracentral fixation, complete functional remodeling of the visual system, and effectively utilize residual visual function by taking appropriate training on these potential paracentral fixation points for most patients. In 2021, a clinical guideline has been published for low vision rehabilitation in China. In order to strengthen the precise management of diseases and develop a standard operating procedure for visual training specifically for patients with low vision due to macular disease, the National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases initiated and organized relevant domestic experts, utilizing the latest research experience at home and abroad, and through repeated discussions, this consensus (International Practice Guideline Registration Number: PREPARE-2023CN199) was formed as a reference for ophthalmologists, optometrists and rehabilitation physicians in their clinical research and practice.
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Objective:To analyze the antimicrobial resistance and genomic characteristics of Salmonella enterica serovar Derby strains isolated from human and food sources in Hangzhou. Methods:A total of 60 Salmonella enterica serovar Derby strains isolated in Hangzhou during the period from 2015 to 2020 were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing, pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) typing and whole-genome sequencing. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST), core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) and the identification of antimicrobial resistance genes were performed using the sequencing data. Phylogenetic tree based on the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) sites in the 60 genomes from Hangzhou and 379 genomes from public databases was constructed. Results:No significant difference was observed in the drug resistance rates between the clinical strains and food strains in Hangzhou. The multidrug resistance (MDR) rate was 76.7% (46/60). All of the 60 Salmonella Derby strains were positive for the antimicrobial resistance genes aac(6′)- Iaa and fosA7. The 60 strains were subtyped into 46 molecular types by PFGE and 53 molecular types by cgMLST(HC2). Except for one strain belonging to ST3220, the other Salmonella Derby strains were ST40. The phylogenetic analysis showed that some strains isolated in Hangzhou were close to the strains in Southeast Asia, suggesting the possibility of cross-border transmission of ST40 strains, with the main food sources being pork and fish; other strains were close to those circulating in Beijing, Guangzhou, Hubei, Chongqing and other provinces, suggesting the possibility of cross-province transmission of the strains, with the main food sources being pork, beef and chicken. Conclusions:The epidemic of Salmonella Derby in Hangzhou was mainly caused by the spread of ST40 strains and MDR was common. Clinical infections might be closely related to the consumption of pork, beef, chicken and fish. There was the possibility of cross-border transmission of Salmonella Derby between Hangzhou and Southeast Asia and cross-province transmission in China.
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Objective:To study the multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) gene characteristics of Brucella isolates in Guizhou Province. Methods:Brucella strains, which were isolated from 2017 to 2021 in Guizhou Province (preserved in the Bacterial and Viral Seed Bank of Guizhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention) were identified Brucella and species/types by BCSP31-PCR and AMOS-PCR methods, respectively. MLST method was used for genotyping, and Biometrics 8.0 software was used for cluster analysis of the typing results. Results:A total of 32 strains of Brucella were isolated in Guizhou Province and identified as Brucella melitensis ( B.melitensis) by BCSP31-PCR and AMOS-PCR methods. These strains were classified into 2 ST types (ST8 and ST39) by MLST method, with 28 strains of ST8 type(87.5%) and 4 strains of ST39 type (12.5%). The 28 strains of ST8 type were distributed in 7 cities (prefectures) of Guizhou Province, while the 4 strains of ST39 type were only found in Qianxinan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. The cluster analysis results showed that ST8 and ST39 types strains were clustered in a group with the reference strain of B.melitensis, and there was only one nucleotide site difference between ST39 and ST8 types in the glk gene, indicating a close genetic relationship. Conclusions:B.melitensis is the main pathogen of the brucellosis epidemic in Guizhou Province in recent years. ST8 is the dominant MLST genotype in Guizhou Province.
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Objective:To learn about the genotyping of human Brucella isolated from Sichuan Province. Methods:BCSP31-PCR and AMOS-PCR were used to identify the genus and biotype of the 66 strains isolated from confirmed human brucellosis cases in Sichuan Province from 2014 to 2020, respectively. The isolated strains were genotyped by multi-locus sequence typing (MLST)-9. The sequence type (ST) was compared trough the online MLST database. A minimum spanning tree (MST) was constructed to cluster the newly discovered and known ST using the BioNumerics software version 7.6.Results:The 66 strains isolated from human cases of brucellosis in Sichuan Province from 2014 to 2020 were Brucella, and 65 of them were Brucella melitensis while one strain was Brucella abortus. The MLST method identified three known STs (ST-8, ST-39 and ST-2) and one newly type (ST-101). Among them, ST-8 was the main ST in Sichuan Province (90.91%, 60/66), another 4 strains of Brucella melitensis were ST-39, and 1 strain of Brucella abortus was ST-2. The newly type ST-101 was isolated from Leshan City in 2019, belonging to the Brucella melitensis and closely related to the evolution of ST-8. Conclusion:Brucella melitensis is the main epidemic Brucella strain in Sichuan Province, ST-8 is predominant genotype, with a small amount of ST-39, ST-101 and ST-2.
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ObjectiveTo observe the effect of Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids combined with Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside tablets （TWPT） on ovarian germline stem cells of female physiological mice through neurogenic locus notch homolog （Notch） signaling pathway. MethodSixty female Kunming mice （5 weeks old） were randomly divided into normal group， Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside tablets low-， high-dose groups （13.65 mg·kg-1·d-1 and 27.3 mg·kg-1·d-1， 1 and 2 times clinical equivalent dose）， Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids low- and high-dose groups （150 mg·kg-1·d-1 and 300 mg·kg-1·d-1）， and combination group （13.65 mg·kg-1·d-1 TWPT and 150 mg·kg-1·d-1 Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids）， with 10 in each group. After 3 weeks of continuous administration， the uterus/brain and ovarian/brain indexes were calculated， and the pathological changes of ovarian tissue were observed under light microscope. The content of estradiol in serum was determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Immunofluorescence assay was performed to observe the expressions of germline stem cell markers in ovarian epithelium， including mouse vasa homologue （Mvh）， octamer-binding transcription factor 4 （Oct4）， tyrosine-protein kinase receptor （c-kit）， Nanog， Notch signaling pathway molecules， neurogenic locus notch homolog protein 1 （Notch1）， hes family BHLH transcription factor 1（Hes1）， and jagged canonical Notch ligand 1 （JAG1）. ResultCompared with the normal group， low and high doses of TWPT had no significant effect on the uterus/brain and ovary/brain indexes and the uterus and ovary morphologies of mice， while only the number of atretic follicles was increased （P<0.01）. The expressions of ovarian germline stem cell markers and Notch signaling pathway molecules had a decreasing trend in TWPT low-dose group， while the expressions of Mvh， c-kit， and Nanog were down-regulated （P<0.05， P<0.01） and the expressions of Notch1 and Hes1 were also reduced （P<0.01） in TWPT high-dose group. However， the above indexes were increased in Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids low-dose group （P<0.05， P<0.01）. Compared with the low does of TWPT group， the combination group had a decrease in the increased number of atretic follicles （P<0.01）， an improvement in the down-regulated expressions of Mvh and Nanog （P<0.01）， and an increase in the expressions of Notch1 and Hes1 （P<0.05， P<0.01）. ConclusionOvarian germline stem cells are the source target of the reproductive toxicity of TWPT. Cuscutae Semen total flavonoids participate in the regulation of the germline stem cell pathways to alleviate the reproductive toxicity caused by TWPT， and its mechanism of action may be related to the Notch signaling pathway.
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The study aims to explore the relationship of mental health to internal locus of control and self-efficacy of adolescents, and further to explore the differential effect of family integration on the relationship. The descriptive correlational study collected data from a random sample of 1246 adolescent learners from different secondary schools of Kerala by administering standardized psychometric instruments. Statistical analysis brought out that both internal locus of control and self-efficacy of the adolescents from broken and intact families are significantly and positively correlated to their mental health. Significant differences were observed between adolescents from broken and intact families with respect to the correlation of mental health to internal locus of control and self-efficacy. Adolescents from broken families excelled their counterparts from intact families in the degree of relationship between the variables. The study revealed that the mental health of adolescents from broken families is more strongly influenced by their internal locus of control and self-efficacy than that of adolescents from intact families
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ABSTRACT: Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic and ubiquitous pathogen found in the skin, nares, and mucosal membranes of mammals. Increasing resistance to antimicrobials including methicillin has become an important public concern. One hundred and eight (108) S. aureus strains isolated from a total of 572 clinical and animal products samples, were investigated for their biofilm capability, methicillin resistance, enterotoxin genes, and genetic diversity. Although only one strain isolated from raw retail was found as a strong biofilm producer, the percentage of antimicrobial resistance pattern was relatively higher. 17.59% of S. aureus strains tested in this study were resistant to cefoxitin and identified as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) isolates. mecA and mecC harboring S. aureus strains were detected at a rate of 2.79% and 0.93%, respectively. In addition, staphylococcal enterotoxin genes including Sea, Seb, Sec, and Sed genes were found to be 18.5%, 32.4%, 6.5% and 3.7%, respectively. The phylogenetic relationship among the isolates showed relationship between joint calf and cow milk isolates. Multi locus sequence typing (MLST) revealed three different sequence types (STs) including ST84, ST829, and ST6238. These findings highlight the development and spread of MRSA strains with zoonotic potential in animals and the food chain throughout the world.
RESUMO: Staphylococcus aureus é um patógeno dúctil e ubíquo encontrado na pele, narinas e membranas mucosas de mamíferos. O aumento da resistência aos antimicrobianos, incluindo a meticilina, tornou-se uma importante preocupação pública. Cento e oito (108) cepas de S. aureus isoladas de um total de 572 amostras clínicas e de produtos animais foram investigadas por sua capacidade de biofilme, resistência à meticilina, genes de enterotoxinas e diversidade genética. Embora apenas uma cepa isolada do cru tenha sido encontrada como forte produtora de biofilme, a porcentagem do padrão de resistência antimicrobiana foi relativamente maior. Parte das cepas (17,59%) de S. aureus testadas neste estudo eram resistentes à cefoxitina e identificadas como isolados de MRSA. mecA e mecC abrigando cepas de S. aureus foram detectados a uma taxa de 2,79% e 0,93%, respectivamente. Além disso, verificou-se que os genes da enterotoxina estafilocócica, incluindo os genes Sea, Seb, Sec e Sed, eram 18,5%, 32,4%, 6,5% e 3,7%, respectivamente. A relação filogenética entre os isolados mostrou relação entre os isolados de bezerro e leite de vaca. A tipagem de sequência multiloco (MLST) revelou três tipos de sequência diferentes (STs), incluindo ST84, ST829 e ST6238. Essas descobertas destacam o desenvolvimento e a disseminação de cepas de MRSA com potencial zoonótico em animais e na cadeia alimentar em todo o mundo.
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Objective:To analyze the incidence of brucellosis and the genotypes of Brucella isolates or nucleic acids in Shaanxi Province, to get the epidemiological and molecular genetic characteristics, and to provide scientific basis for precise prevention and control of human brucellosis. Methods:Log into the Chinese Disease Control and Prevention Information System, collect the incidence data of human brucellosis of Shaanxi Province in 2020, and analyze the epidemiological characteristics. Bacteriology and PCR methods were used to identify the isolates or nucleic acids, and multiple locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) was used for molecular typing. BioNumerics (Version 7.6) software was used to analyze the results of MLVA.Results:In 2020, 1 086 cases of human brucellosis were reported in Shaanxi Province, the incidence rate was 2.80/100 000, involving 86 counties (districts), the epidemic peak was from March to September (865 cases), male-to-female ratio was 2.68 ∶ 1.00 (791 ∶ 295), 79.74% (866 cases) in the age group of 30 to 69 years old, and 83.43% (906 cases) of the cases were farmers. Biotype identification of 36 isolates showed that 4 isolates were mutant Brucella melitensis, 3 isolates were Brucella melitensis 1 and 29 isolates were Brucella melitensis 3. The 36 isolates and 7 nucleic acids were identified as Brucella by BCSP31-PCR and Brucella melitensis by AMOS-PCR. MLVA-16 genotyping, panel1 showed two genotypes: type 42 (1-5-3-13-2-2-3-2) and type 63 (1-5-3-13-2-3-3-2), panel2A showed 4-41-8 and panel2B showed high variability. Thirty-six isolates and 7 nucleic acids were divided into 33 genotypes, of which 27 genotypes were single isolates and 6 genotypes were shared. Conclusions:The situation of human brucellosis prevention and control in Shaanxi Province is grim. MLVA-16 is a mature genotyping method, which determines the existence of multiple genotypes of Brucella isolates or nucleic acids in Shaanxi Province, which can provide scientific information for precise prevention and control of human brucellosis, outbreak analysis and epidemiological traceability.
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Background The main pathological feature of silicosis is pulmonary fibrosis. Multiple miRNAs regulate the development of silicosis. Objective Using a fibroblast cell line, to explore the effect of miR-18a on the expression of extracellular matrix-related genes, and verify the mechanism. Methods The fibroblast cell line NIH-3T3 cells were transfected with miR-18a mimics or neurogenic locus notch homolog protein 2 (Notch2) small interfering RNA (siRNA). The mRNA expression changes of Acta2, Col1a1, and Notch2 were detected by real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and Notch2 were also detected at the protein level by Western blotting. To verify whether miR-18a could directly act on the complementary sequences of the Notch2 gene, human embryonic kidney HEK293T cells and the psiCHECKTM-2 vector were used. Results The results of qRT-PCR showed that in NIH-3T3 cells, the over-expression of miR-18a mimics for 36 h inhibited the mRNA expression of Col1a1 and Acta2 (P<0.05). The results of Western blotting showed that the protein expression abundance of α-SMA was decreased at 48 h of miR-18a mimics over-expression. The qRT-PCR results showed that the over-expression of miR-18a for 36 h had no significant effect on Notch2 gene expression, but the Western blotting results showed that the over-expression of miR-18a mimics inhibited the expression of Notch2 at the protein level. The results of the dual luciferase reporter vector assay showed that in HEK293T cells, both over-expressed miR-18a mimics and inhibitors for 24 h demonstrated that Notch2 is a direct target gene of miR-18a. When Notch2 was inhibited for 36 h, the qRT-PCR results showed that Acta2 and Col1a1 were down-regulated (P < 0.05), and the results of Western blotting showed that α-SMA protein was also inhibited. Conclusion The findings indicate that miR-18a could inhibit the expression of extracellular matrix-related genes of NIH-3T3 cells by directly acting on the 3’UTR of target gene Notch2.
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Objective: To observe the dynamic changes of brainstem locus coeruleus (LC) damage in Parkinson' s disease (PD) -like mice by paraquat (PQ) . Methods: In October 2019, 36 male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into the exposure group and the control group, with 18 mice in each group. The mice in the exposure group were given intraperitoneal injection of 15 mg/kg PQ, and the mice in the control group were given intraperitoneal injection of 0.9% saline, twice a week for 8 weeks. Neurobehavioral changes (pole climbing test, swimming test, open field test, tail hanging test, high plus maze test and water maze test) were observed at 4 weeks, 6 weeks and 8 weeks, respectively, and the changes of motor ability, emotion and cognitive function were evaluated. The brain tissue of mice were taken and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) to observe the pathological changes of LC. Nissl staining was used to detect the changes of neuronal Nissl bodies in LC. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was used to detect the expression of neuron nuclear antigen (NeuN) , dopamine (DA) neurons and norepinephrine (NE) neuron markers tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) , α-synuclein (α-syn) in substantia nigra (SN) and LC. The expression levels of NeuN, TH and α-syn in the midbrain and brainstem were detected by Western blotting. TUNEL staining was used to detect neuronal apoptosis in LC. Results: Compared with the 4th week of PQ exposure group, the time of pole climbing and swimming immobility were gradually increased, the ratio of open arm residence time of high plus maze test and the number of times of the platform and the residence time of platform quadrant in water maze test were gradually decreased (P<0.05) in the exposure group with the progress of exposure time. The results of HE and Nissl staining showed that the neurons in LC gradually arranged loosely, the nucleus were deeply stained, the cytoplasm was pyknosis, and the number of Nissl bodies gradually decreased (P<0.05) in the exposure group with the progress of exposure time. IHC results showed that the number of NeuN and TH positive cells in SN and LC of mice were gradually decreased, and the positive expression of α-syn was gradually increased (P<0.05) in the exposure group with the progress of exposure time. Western blotting results showed that the expression levels of NeuN and TH in the midbrain and brainstem were gradually decreased, and the expression level of α-syn was gradually increased (P<0.05) in the exposure group with the progress of exposure time. TUNEL staining showed that the apoptosis rates of neurons in LC were gradually increased (P<0.05) in the exposure group with the progress of exposure time. Conclusion: PQ induces progressive damage in the LC area of PD-like mice, which may be caused by the abnormal accumulation of pathological α-syn in the LC area.
Subject(s)
Animals , Male , Mice , Dopaminergic Neurons , Locus Coeruleus/pathology , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Paraquat/toxicity , Parkinson Disease/metabolism , Substantia Nigra , Tyrosine 3-Monooxygenase/metabolismABSTRACT
@#In clinical practice, many macular diseases in advanced stages such as age-related macular degeneration(ARMD)and Stargardt disease are manifested reduced visual acuity, unstable and even paracentral fixation resulting from the central scotoma followed by the scarring of neovascular fibres or the impairment of photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium, which cause great distress to patients' life, work and psychology. For a long time, there have been limited rehabilitation treatments for such patients. However, recent articles have indicated that biofeedback training by using microperimetry is expected to enhance neurosensory adaptation by achieving cortical plasticity, and makes better use of residual retinal function to help those with low vision associated with central scotoma consolidate or establish stable central or paracentral fixation, thereby improving visual function including visual acuity and reading speed. In order to improve the understanding of this rehabilitation therapy, this article will overview the mechanism and protocol of microperimetric biofeedback training(MBFT), the selection of the preferred retinal locus, the clinical application in macular diseases and its prospects.
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Abstract Listeria monocytogenes is responsible for causing listeriosis, a type of food poisoning with high mortality. This bacterium is mainly transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated foods. Detection of L. monocytogenes through molecular methods is crucial for food safety and clinical diagnosis. Present techniques are characterized by low discrimination power and high cost, as well as being time-consuming and taking several days to give the final result. In our study, MLVA-HRM (Multiple-Locus Variable-number tandem repeats Analysis ‒ High-Resolution Melting) was investigated as an alternative method for a fast and precise method for the genotyping of L. monocytogenes isolates. Forty-eight isolates of L. monocytogenes obtained from the microbial bank of Department of Microbiology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, were typed by MLVA-HRM analysis using five Variable Numbers of Tandem Repeat (VNTR) loci. A total of 43 different types were obtained. This research demonstrated the usefulness of the MLVA-HRMA method and its ability to discriminate L. monocytogenes isolates. Since this method is easier and more efficient than existing methods, it can be widely used in food processing plants and diagnostic laboratories as a fast and accurate method.
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Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic and ubiquitous pathogen found in the skin, nares, and mucosal membranes of mammals. Increasing resistance to antimicrobials including methicillin has become an important public concern. One hundred and eight (108) S. aureus strains isolated from a total of 572 clinical and animal products samples, were investigated for their biofilm capability, methicillin resistance, enterotoxin genes, and genetic diversity. Although only one strain isolated from raw retail was found as a strong biofilm producer, the percentage of antimicrobial resistance pattern was relatively higher. 17.59% of S. aureus strains tested in this study were resistant to cefoxitin and identified as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) isolates. mecA and mecC harboring S. aureus strains were detected at a rate of 2.79% and 0.93%, respectively. In addition, staphylococcal enterotoxin genes including Sea, Seb, Sec, and Sed genes were found to be 18.5%, 32.4%, 6.5% and 3.7%, respectively. The phylogenetic relationship among the isolates showed relationship between joint calf and cow milk isolates. Multi locus sequence typing (MLST) revealed three different sequence types (STs) including ST84, ST829, and ST6238. These findings highlight the development and spread of MRSA strains with zoonotic potential in animals and the food chain throughout the world.
Staphylococcus aureus é um patógeno dúctil e ubíquo encontrado na pele, narinas e membranas mucosas de mamíferos. O aumento da resistência aos antimicrobianos, incluindo a meticilina, tornou-se uma importante preocupação pública. Cento e oito (108) cepas de S. aureus isoladas de um total de 572 amostras clínicas e de produtos animais foram investigadas por sua capacidade de biofilme, resistência à meticilina, genes de enterotoxinas e diversidade genética. Embora apenas uma cepa isolada do cru tenha sido encontrada como forte produtora de biofilme, a porcentagem do padrão de resistência antimicrobiana foi relativamente maior. Parte das cepas (17,59%) de S. aureus testadas neste estudo eram resistentes à cefoxitina e identificadas como isolados de MRSA. mecA e mecC abrigando cepas de S. aureus foram detectados a uma taxa de 2,79% e 0,93%, respectivamente. Além disso, verificou-se que os genes da enterotoxina estafilocócica, incluindo os genes Sea, Seb, Sec e Sed, eram 18,5%, 32,4%, 6,5% e 3,7%, respectivamente. A relação filogenética entre os isolados mostrou relação entre os isolados de bezerro e leite de vaca. A tipagem de sequência multiloco (MLST) revelou três tipos de sequência diferentes (STs), incluindo ST84, ST829 e ST6238. Essas descobertas destacam o desenvolvimento e a disseminação de cepas de MRSA com potencial zoonótico em animais e na cadeia alimentar em todo o mundo.
Subject(s)
Animals , Staphylococcal Food Poisoning/epidemiology , Turkey/epidemiology , Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification , Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/genetics , Cheese/microbiology , Milk/microbiology , EnterotoxinsABSTRACT
Abstract The study relies on the assumption that one of the main effects of phycological empowerment composed by attributes like self-esteem, locus of control, and assertiveness, is increased autonomy. The theoretical arguments are tested based on a structural equation model that allows estimating hypothetical relationships simultaneously. Additionally, differences in means between women and men are estimated for each phycological variable and the hypothetical model is tested separately to both sexes. 1,569 people (56% women) from five Mexican States compose the sample. The average age is 29 years and 59% of the sample has college degrees. The results suggest that psychological empowerment is strongly related to autonomy.
Resumen Este trabajo parte del supuesto de que uno de los principales efectos del empoderamiento psicológico es el incremento de la autonomía, y que atributos como la autoestima, el locus de control y la asertividad lo constituyen. Con base en ello, se probaron ambos planteamientos teóricos a través de un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales, ya que la técnica permite estimar relaciones hipotéticas simultáneamente. Asimismo, se estimaron las diferencias en las medias de cada una de las variables psicológicas entre mujeres y hombres y se probó el mismo modelo hipotético de forma separada para cada sexo. La muestra la conforman 1,569 personas (56% son mujeres) de cinco entidades federativas de México, la edad promedio es de 29 años y el 59% cuentan con estudios universitarios. Los resultados sugieren que el empoderamiento psicológico tiene una fuerte relación con la autonomía.
ABSTRACT
A questão ambiental é um campo de grande importância na atualidade, principalmente no que tange aos estudos sobre valores pró-ambientais. Uma interação normalmente investigada consiste na relação entre conexão com a natureza e locus de controle, especialmente considerando a crença por parte do indivíduo de que suas ações sejam importantes para a conservação do meio ambiente. Participaram do estudo 898 estudantes universitários, sendo 452 (49,8%) homens, 456 (50,2%) mulheres de idade média, de 28,87 (DP=8,90) anos, do estado do Rio de Janeiro. Para fins de validade interna, foram empregados procedimentos de análise fatorial. A escala foi analisada também junto à medida de conexão com a natureza, para oferecer uma evidência inicial de validade concorrente. Conexão com a natureza foi mensurada por meio da escala proposta por Mayer e Frantz (2004). A Escala de Locus de Controle da Preservação Ambiental foi desenvolvida neste estudo. Considerando os resultados obtidos, é possível afirmar uma qualidade satisfatória da medida desenvolvida.
The environmental issue is a field of great importance today, especially with regard to studies on pro-environmental values. A commonly investigated interaction is the relationship between connection with nature and locus of control, especially considering the individuals' beliefs that their actions are important for the conservation of the environment. The study included 898 university students, which 452 (49.8%) were men, 456 (50.2%) were women of average age, of 28.87 (SD = 8.90) years old, from the state of Rio de Janeiro. For purposes of internal validity, factor analysis procedures were used. The scale was also analyzed together with the measure of connection with nature, to offer initial evidence of concurrent validity. Connection with nature was measured using the scale proposed by Mayer and Frantz (2004). The Locus Scale for Environmental Preservation Control was developed in this study. Considering the results obtained, it is possible to affirm a satisfactory quality of the measure developed.