Assessment of land use cover changes, carbon sequestration and carbon stock in dry temperate forests of Chilas watershed, Gilgit-Baltistan

Abstract Land use and land cover change are affecting the global environment and ecosystems of the different biospheres. Monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV) of these changes is of utmost importance as they often results in several global environmental consequences such as land degradation, mass erosion, habitat deterioration as well as micro and macro climate of the regions. The advance technologies like remote sensing (RS) and geographical information system (GIS) are helpful in determining/ identifying these changes. In the current study area, changes in carbon stocks, notably in forest areas, are resulting in considerable dynamics of carbon stocks as a result of climate change and carbon sequestration. This study was carried out in the Diamer district of the Gilgit Baltistan (GB) Pakistan to investigate the change in cover change/land use change (particularly Forest Land use) as well as carbon sequestration potential of the forests in the district during almost last 25years. The land cover, temporal Landsat data (level 1, LIT) were downloaded from the USGS EROS (2016), for 1979-1989, 1990-2000 and 2001-2012. Change in land uses, particularly forest cover was investigated using GIS techniques. Forest inventory was carried out using random sampling techniques. A standard plot of size 0.1 ha (n=80) was laid out to determine the tree density, volume, biomass and C stocks. Simulation of C stocks was accomplished by application of the CO2FIX model with the data input from inventory. Results showed a decrease in both forest and snow cover in the region from 1979-2012. Similarly decrease was seen in tree volume, tree Biomass, dynamics of C Stocks and decrease was in occur tree density respectively. It is recommended we need further more like project such as BTAP (Billion Tree Afforestation Project) and green Pakistan project to increase the forest cover, to control on land use change, protect forest ecosystem and to protect snow cover.

Resumo O uso e as mudanças na cobertura da terra estão afetando o meio ambiente global e os ecossistemas das diferentes biosferas. O monitoramento, relatório e verificação (MRV) dessas mudanças são de extrema importância, pois muitas vezes resultam em várias consequências ambientais globais, como degradação da terra, erosão em massa, deterioração do hábitat, bem como micro e macroclima das regiões. As tecnologias avançadas, como sensoriamento remoto (RS) e sistema de informações geográficas (SIG), são úteis para determinar / identificar essas mudanças. Na área de estudo atual, as mudanças nos estoques de carbono, principalmente em áreas florestais, estão resultando em uma dinâmica considerável dos estoques de carbono como resultado das mudanças climáticas e do sequestro de carbono. Este estudo foi realizado no distrito de Diamer de Gilgit Baltistan (GB), Paquistão, para investigar a mudança na mudança de cobertura / mudança de uso da terra (particularmente uso de terras florestais), bem como o potencial de sequestro de carbono das florestas no distrito durante quase os últimos 25 anos. A cobertura da terra, os dados temporais do Landsat (nível 1, LIT), foram baixados do USGS EROS (2016), para 1979-1989, 1990-2000 e 2001-2012. Mudanças nos usos da terra, particularmente na cobertura florestal, foram investigadas usando técnicas de SIG. O inventário florestal foi realizado por meio de técnicas de amostragem aleatória. Um lote padrão de 0,1 ha (n = 80) foi estabelecido para determinar a densidade das árvores, volume, biomassa e estoques de C. A simulação dos estoques de C foi realizada pela aplicação do modelo CO2FIX com a entrada de dados do inventário. Os resultados mostraram uma diminuição na cobertura florestal e de neve na região de 1979 a 2012. Da mesma forma, diminuição foi observada no volume da árvore, biomassa das árvores, dinâmica dos estoques de C e diminuição na densidade das árvores, respectivamente. É recomendado que precisemos de mais projetos como o BTAP (Billion Tree Afforestation Project) e o projeto Green Pakistan para aumentar a cobertura florestal, controlar as mudanças no uso da terra, proteger o ecossistema florestal e proteger a cobertura de neve.

NEDD4-1 deficiency impairs satellite cell function during skeletal muscle regeneration

BACKGROUND: Satellite cells are tissue-specific stem cells primarily responsible for the regenerative capacity of skeletal muscle. Satellite cell function and maintenance are regulated by extrinsic and intrinsic mechanisms, including the ubiquitin-proteasome system, which is key for maintaining protein homeostasis. In this context, it has been shown that ubiquitin-ligase NEDD4-1 targets the transcription factor PAX7 for proteasome-dependent degradation, promoting muscle differentiation in vitro. Nonetheless, whether NEDD4-1 is required for satellite cell function in regenerating muscle remains to be determined. RESULTS: Using conditional gene ablation, we show that NEDD4-1 loss, specifically in the satellite cell population, impairs muscle regeneration resulting in a significant reduction of whole-muscle size. At the cellular level, NEDD4-1-null muscle progenitors exhibit a significant decrease in the ability to proliferate and differentiate, contributing to the formation of myofibers with reduced diameter. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that NEDD4-1 expression is critical for proper muscle regeneration in vivo and suggest that it may control satellite cell function at multiple levels.

Effects of electroacupuncture on gait and proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cell in rats with acute blunt trauma of gastrocnemius muscle / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the effects of electroacupuncture on threshold of pain, gait, proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cell in rats with acute blunt trauma of gastrocnemius muscle, and to explore the possible mechanism of electroacupuncture in promoting the repair of acute injury of skeletal muscle.@*METHODS@#A total of 48 SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group (6 rats), a model group (24 rats) and an electroacupuncture group (18 rats). In the model group and the electroacupuncture group, the model of acute blunt trauma of gastrocnemius muscle was established by self-made impactor. In the electroacupuncture group, electroacupuncture was applied at "Chengshan" (BL 57) and "Yanglingquan" (GB 34) on the right side, with disperse-dense wave, in frequency of 2 Hz/100 Hz, once a day, 30 min each time. Electroacupuncture intervention was performed for 3, 7 and 14 days according to the sampling time. On the 1st, 3rd, 7th and 14th days after modeling, the mechanical withdrawal pain threshold of hindfoot was detected by Von Frey method; the standing time and the maximum contact area of the right hindfoot were recorded by Cat Walk XTTM animal gait analysis instrument; the morphology of the right gastrocnemius muscle and the number of inflammatory cells were observed by HE staining; the positive expression of paired box gene 7 (Pax7) and myogenic differentiation (MyoD) of the right gastrocnemius muscle was detected by immunofluorescence.@*RESULTS@#After modeling, the muscle fiber rupture and massive infiltration of red blood cells and inflammatory cells were observed in the right gastrocnemius muscle; after electroacupuncture intervention, the morphology of muscle fiber was intact and the infiltration of inflammatory cells was improved. Compared with the blank group, in the model group, the differences of mechanical withdrawal pain threshold between the left and right foot were increased (P<0.05), the standing time was shortened and the maximum contact area of the right hindfoot was decreased (P<0.05), the number of inflammatory cells and the positive expression of Pax7 and MyoD of the right gastrocnemius muscle were increased (P<0.05) on the 1st, 3rd, 7th and 14th days after modeling. Compared with the model group, in the electroacupuncture group, the differences of mechanical withdrawal pain threshold were decreased (P<0.05), the standing time was prolonged (P<0.05), the number of inflammatory cells of right gastrocnemius muscle was decreased (P<0.05) on the 7th and 14th days after modeling; the maximum contact area of the right hindfoot was increased (P<0.05), the positive expression of MyoD of the right gastrocnemius muscle was increased (P<0.05) on the 3rd, 7th and 14th days after modeling; the positive expression of Pax7 of the right gastrocnemius muscle was increased (P<0.05) on the 3rd day after modeling.@*CONCLUSION@#Electroacupuncture can effectively improve the pain threshold and gait in rats with acute blunt trauma of gastrocnemius muscle, and promote the repair of skeletal muscle injury, the mechanism may be related to the up-regulation of Pax7 and MyoD, so as to promoting the proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cell.

Is the myonuclear domain ceiling hypothesis dead?

Muscle fibres are multinuclear cells, and the cytoplasmic territory where a single myonucleus controls transcriptional activity is called the myonuclear domain (MND). MND size shows flexibility during muscle hypertrophy. The MND ceiling hypothesis states that hypertrophy results in the expansion of MND size to an upper limit or MND ceiling, beyond which additional myonuclei via activation of satellite cells are required to support further growth. However, the debate about the MND ceiling hypothesis is far from settled, and various studies show conflicting results about the existence or otherwise of MND ceiling in hypertrophy. The aim of this review is to summarise the literature about the MND ceiling in various settings of hypertrophy and discuss the possible factors contributing to a discrepancy in the literature. We conclude by describing the physiological and clinical significance of the MND ceiling limit in the muscle adaptation process in various physiological and pathological conditions.

The value of immediate bedside blood cultures in the adjustment of antibiotics for children with bloodstream infections in PICU / 中国小儿急救医学

Objective:To explore the value of immediate bedside blood culture in the adjustment of antibiotics for children with bloodstream infections in pediatric intensive care units(PICU).Methods:Retrospective analysis of children in PICU at Henan Children′s Hospital from May 2017 to March 2021 was conducted.The cases were divided into laboratory blood culture(LBC) group and satellite blood culture(SBC) group according to different blood culture methods.The difference in the time to blood culture incubation, time to blood culture positivity, microbial results time and antibiotic adjustment time were compared between two groups.Results:A total of 3 720 blood cultures were completed in 2 718 children, including 1 888 in LBC group and 1 832 in SBC group, with a positive rate of 3.5% in LBC group and 4.9% in SBC group, and a significantly higher positive rate in SBC group compared to LBC group( χ2=3.954, P=0.046). The differences in age, sex, site of infection, survival rate at 28 d after discharge, pediatric critical illness score, and pediatric risk of mortality Ⅲ score between LBC group and SBC group with positive blood cultures were not statistically significant ( P>0.05). Children in SBC group had significantly shorter specimen receipt time, time to obtain microbiological results, and antibiotic adjustment time than those in LBC group[0.33(0.03, 1.78) h vs. 3.38(1.38, 7.29) h, (57.40±21.92) h vs. (68.14±21.26) h, and (52.53±27.23) h vs. (66.41±28.57) h, all P<0.05]. Conclusion:Immediate bedside blood culture shortens the time from culture to final result reporting, increases the positive rate of blood culture, and saves time on accurate antibiotic treatment for critically ill children.

Satellite cell activation and signaling pathway response in joint exercise athletes / Ativação de células satélites e resposta na via de sinalização nos exercícios articulares dos atletas / Activación de las células satélite y respuesta de la vía de señalización en los ejercicios articulares de los atletas

ABSTRACT Introduction: Skeletal muscle satellite cells are considered the unique source of stem cells for myogenic differentiation of adult skeletal muscle cells. Upon stimulation, the skeletal muscle satellite cell can be activated through specific signaling pathways, proliferate and differentiate into a muscle cell. An analysis of the effects of key signaling pathways could provide the basis for an in-depth study of skeletal muscle formation in athletes and muscle development. Objective: This paper analyzes the effects of key signaling pathways on skeletal muscle satellite cell proliferation and differentiation. Methods: We divided 32 athletes into four groups: control, stretching, experimental, and mixed groups. The control group received no training at all, the stretching group and the experimental group received stretching training on the right gastrocnemius. The mixed group also got weight climbing training in the stretching training, initial load 30% of the athlete's weight, increasing 25% each week until 100% of body weight, at the frequency of 3 times a week. After training, gene expression of live satellite cells was measured by intramuscular signaling. Results: The FGM level of the antagonistic group (3.56±0.21) was higher than in the control group (3.25±0.18). The gene expression of HGF mRNA was higher in the mixed group (2.16±0.24) followed by the antagonistic group (2.02±0.15), the stretching group (1.81±0.25), and the control group (1.03±0.06). Conclusion: Both stretching and antagonistic training can increase gene expression in signaling pathways. Antagonistic training significantly increased the expression of HGF, MGF, and mRNA. This activity can promote muscle bulking and skeletal muscle enlargements. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies - Investigating the result.

RESUMO Introdução: As células satélites musculares esqueléticas são consideradas a única fonte de células-tronco para a diferenciação miogênica das células musculares esqueléticas adultas. Após a estimulação, a célula satélite muscular esquelética pode ser ativada através de vias de sinalização específicas, proliferar e diferenciar-se em célula muscular. Uma análise sobre os efeitos das principais vias de sinalização poderia estabelecer as bases para um estudo aprofundado da formação muscular esquelética nos atletas e do desenvolvimento muscular. Objetivo: Este artigo analisa os efeitos das principais vias de sinal na proliferação e diferenciação das células satélites musculares esqueléticas. Métodos: Dividimos 32 atletas em quatro grupos. Grupos controle, alongamento, experimental e grupo misto. O grupo controle não recebeu treinamento algum, o grupo de alongamento e o grupo experimental receberam treinamento de alongamento no gastrocnêmio direito. O grupo misto também obteve treinamento de escalada com peso no treino de alongamento, carga inicial de 30% do peso do atleta, aumentando 25% em cada semana até 100% do peso corporal. Na frequência de 3 vezes por semana. Após os treinos, a expressão genética das células satélites vivas foi medida por intermédio da sinalização proveniente de coleta intramuscular. Resultados: O nível de MGF do grupo antagônico (3.56±0.21) foi maior que no grupo controle (3.25±0.18). A expressão gênica do mRNA HGF foi maior no grupo misto (2.16±0.24) seguido pelo antagônico (2.02±0.15), o grupo de alongamento (1.81±0.25) e o grupo controle (1.03±0.06) Conclusão: Tanto o treinamento de alongamento quanto o treinamento antagônico podem aumentar a expressão genética nas vias de sinalização. O treinamento antagônico aumentou significativamente a expressão de HGF, MGF e mRNA. Essa atividade pode promover volume e hipertrofia muscular. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: Las células satélite del músculo esquelético se consideran la única fuente de células madre para la diferenciación miogénica de las células musculares esqueléticas adultas. Tras la estimulación, la célula satélite del músculo esquelético puede activarse a través de vías de señalización específicas, proliferar y diferenciarse en una célula muscular. Un análisis sobre los efectos de las vías de señalización clave podría sentar las bases para un estudio en profundidad de la formación del músculo esquelético en los atletas y del desarrollo muscular. Objetivo: Este trabajo examina los efectos de las vías de señalización clave en la proliferación y diferenciación de las células satélite del músculo esquelético. Métodos: Dividimos a 32 atletas en cuatro grupos. Grupos de control, de estiramiento, experimentales y mixtos. El grupo de control no recibió ningún entrenamiento, el grupo de estiramiento y el grupo experimental recibieron un entrenamiento de estiramiento en el gastrocnemio derecho. El grupo mixto también recibió entrenamiento de escalada con pesas en el entrenamiento de estiramiento, con una carga inicial del 30% del peso del atleta, aumentando un 25% cada semana hasta el 100% del peso corporal. Con una frecuencia de 3 veces por semana. Tras el entrenamiento, se midió la expresión génica de las células satélite vivas mediante la señalización de la recogida intramuscular. Resultados: El nivel de FGM del grupo antagonista (3,56±0,21) fue mayor que en el grupo de control (3,25±0,18). La expresión génica del ARNm del HGF fue mayor en el grupo mixto (2,16±0,24), seguido del grupo antagonista (2,02±0,15), el grupo de estiramiento (1,81±0,25) y el grupo de control (1,03±0,06) Conclusión: Tanto el entrenamiento de estiramiento como el antagonista pueden aumentar la expresión génica en las vías de señalización. El entrenamiento antagónico aumentó significativamente la expresión de HGF, MGF y mRNA. Esta actividad puede promover el aumento de volumen muscular y la hipertrofia. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - Investigación de resultados.

Protocolo para la certificación por conformidad genética de clones en jardines de propagación de caucho (Hevea brasiliensis) / Protocol for the certification by genetic conformity of clones in rubber propagation gardens (Hevea brasiliensis)

RESUMEN A partir de visualización por electroforesis capilar de 9 regiones micro-satélites amplificadas con cebadores fluoromarcados se determinó el polimorfismo de los marcadores Hmct5, 102, HV 30, 548, HV 15, 416, m574, 103 y 358 identificados en el ADN de muestras de tejido foliar de 12 clones de caucho (Hevea brasiliensis) conservados en jardines clonales de AGROSAVIA en Colombia y 25 clones en jardines clonales de origen en Brasil. Con base en los resultados del análisis se consolidó una base de datos que permite corroborar la identidad por conformidad de clones de caucho a partir de muestras foliares. El protocolo establecido consiste en una aproximación metodológica para la amplificación de dichas regiones micro-satélites por PCR punto final y la visualización de los fragmentos obtenidos de este procedimiento por electroforesis capilar multiplexada, reduciendo costos y optimizando el tiempo en laboratorio. Adicionalmente se encontraron discrepancias entre el perfil electroforético obtenido del clon FX 3864 muestreado en Colombia con el obtenido en Brasil. Se propone considerar la necesidad de corroborar la identidad de los clones reproducidos en jardines clonales para su comercialización en Colombia, utilizando metodologías sensibles y reproducibles, como la estandarizada en este estudio.

ABSTRACT The polymorphism of 9 regions identified in the DNA of leaf tissue sampled from 12 rubber clones conserved in clonal gardens of AGROSAVIA in Colombia and 25 clones in clonal gardens of origin in Brazil was visualized by capillary electrophoresis after amplification with the fluorolabeled primer microsatellite markers Hmct5, 102, HV 30, 548, HV 15, 416, m574, 103 and 358. Upon the results analysis, a database was consolidated that allows to corroborate the genetical identity by conformity with 37 rubber clones from leaf samples. The established protocol is a methodological approach using end-point PCR towards the amplification by multiplexed capillary electrophoresis of micro-satellite regions and their visualization, reducing costs and optimizing time in the laboratory. Additionally, discrepancies were found between the electrophoretic profile obtained from clone FX 3864 sampled in Colombia with that obtained in Brazil. It is proposed to consider the need to corroborate the identity of the clones reproduced in clonal gardens for their commercialization in Colombia, using sensitive and reproducible methodologies, such as the one standardized in this study.

Spatial distribution and effects of land use and cover on cutaneous leishmaniasis vectors in the municipality of Paracambi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

ABSTRACT The municipality of Paracambi (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) reports sporadic cases of American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL). Previous studies detected Nyssomyia intermedia (Diptera: Psychodidae) as the main vector in the region, but its spatial distribution and the presence of other vector species have not been evaluated. This study aims at filling this knowledge gap, by studying the ecology of sand flies, their spatiotemporal distribution, and correlation with land use/cover. Two campaigns of monthly sand fly collections using light traps and manual captures were conducted in 1992-1994 and 2001-2003. Females were dissected to detect natural Leishmania infections. The spatial distribution of sand flies was assessed using kernel density maps. Correlations with land use/cover were evaluated by extracting satellite imagery data around the capture points. A total of 17,232 sand flies from 13 species were captured. Medically important species included Ny. intermedia, Migonemyia migonei, Pintomyia fischeri and Ny. whitmani. No Leishmania-infected females were detected. Highest densities were detected in the peri-urban areas Cascata and Sabugo, and in rural areas São José and Mutirão. Ny. intermedia had statistically significant correlations with pasture and agricultural areas. Present results strengthened that Ny. intermedia and Mg. migonei are the main local ACL vectors. Correlations with land use evidence the association between ACL and anthropic environmental change.

Satellite clinics of the Newborn Screening Continuity Clinic - Region 6: Establishment of a Community-Based Networking System in Western Visayas, Philippines

Background@#With the increasing coverage of the newborn screening (NBS) program in the Philippines, the number of patients being followed-up has also been increasing. The NBS continuity clinics (NBSCCs) have continuously been creating strategies to improve long-term patient health outcomes. @*Objective@#This paper aimed to describe the establishment of a community-based networking system of satellite clinics. @*Methodology@#A document review of resources including powerpoint presentations, a local ordinance, Newborn Screening Reference Center database of statistics of the NBSCCs from 2015 to 2021 and a Department of Health - Center for Health Development memorandum was done. @*Results@#NBS satellite clinics were developed as a strategy for improving the tracking and long-term follow-up of patients confirmed for one of the conditions in the NBS panel. Satellite clinics offering long-term follow-up services were set up in hospitals strategically located in the provinces of the Western Visayas, especially in areas with a high number of patients. Capacity building activities were initiated among the established NBS satellite clinic core teams which were composed of doctors, nurses, and/or midwives. A total of 15 satellite clinics spread out across the six provinces of Western Visayas were established in 2017. By the end of 2020, the Western Visayas region had a total of 528 confirmed patients endorsed by the Newborn Screening Center Visayas (NSC V) and the recall rate increased from 62.77 % in 2015 to 87.79 % in 2020. @*Conclusion@#The establishment of satellite clinics provided a region-wide accessibility and availability of longterm follow-up services to the patients as seen by the increase in the patient recall rate. The benefits were seen especially during the implementation of strict border controls due to the pandemic which ensured the continuity of care of the patients in the region. This concept can serve as a model for other NBSCCs in the archipelago and for other regions across the Philippines.

Practical exploration of carrying forward the spirit of scientists in the new era:Taking carrying forward the spirit of “Two Bombs and One Satellite”organized by China Museum of Nuclear Science and Technology as an example / 中国辐射卫生

Great causes breed great spirits, and great spirits guide great causes. As an embodiment of the spirit of scientists, the spirit of “Two Bombs and One Satellite” contains great spiritual power. This paper introduces some practical exploration of carrying forward the spirit of “Two Bombs and One Satellite”in the new era from the dimensions of psychology and technology, and puts forward some personal thinking and suggestions.

Formación de un humedal en la costa norte del Perú: estabilidad biofísica y diversidad biológica

Se describe, analiza y reporta por primera vez la formación de un humedal costero en el sur de Salaverry (La Libertad, Perú). Se realiza la comparación del número de especies con otros humedales ubicados en áreas costeras de la región, empleando para ello imágenes satelitales de acceso público e información biológica. Se obtuvo una serie de tiempo suficiente para plantear una hipótesis sobre su formación, calculando el NDVI (Índice de Vegetación de Diferencia Normalizada) y NDMI (Índice de Humedad de Diferencia Normalizada) para confirmar su estabilidad e influencia. El resultado del análisis sugiere que el humedal sur de Salaverry se formó hace quince años por dos aportes antrópicos: filtraciones de agua dulces desde terrenos agrícolas y agua de mar usada para el bombeo del material dragado en las inmediaciones del Puerto de Salaverry. Por sus características ecosistémicas, el humedal se encontraría en las primeras etapas de sucesión ecológica, y a pesar de origen espontáneo, estaría operando como una laguna costera salobre que atrae fauna oportunista, principalmente aves.

The formation of a coastal wetland located south of Salaverry (La Libertad - Peru) is first described, analyzed, and reported, and their biodiversity is compared with regional wetlands located at coastal areas, using publically access satellite imagery and biological information. An adequate time-series was obtained to hypothesize their formation, calculating the NDVI (Normalized difference vegetation index) and NDMI (Normalized Difference Moisture Index) to confirm the stability and influence. The analysis suggests that the wetland south of Salaverry was formed fifteen years ago by two human sources: freshwater infiltration from farmlands and seawater used to pump the dredged material in the vicinity of the Salaverry Port. Because of its ecosystemic features, the wetland would be at the first stages of the ecological succession, and despite its spontaneous origin, it will be functioning as a brackish coastal lagoon attracting opportunistic fauna, mainly birds.

Effects of Incremental Load Training on Phosphorylation of AMPK in Skeletal Muscle Satellite Cells of Aged Mice / 医用生物力学

Objective To investigate the effect of incremental load training on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation in skeletal muscle satellite cells of aged mice. Methods Experimental mice were divided into 3 groups: young control group (YC group, n=12), old control group (OC group, n=12) and old training group (OT group, n=12). The mice in OT group received incremental load training, and CD45-/CD31-/Sca1-/VCAM (CD106) + cells were isolated by flow cytometry sorting. Desmin, Myod myogenic staining and myogenic differentiation culture were used for identification of muscle satellite cells, and the p-AMPK level of muscle satellite cells was detected by immunohistochemistry combined with Western blotting method. Results The expression levels of AMPK and p-AMPK in skeletal muscle satellite cells in YC group were significantly higher than those in OC group (P0.05), while p-AMPK expression level in OT group was significant higher than that in OC group (P<0.05). Conclusions Incremental load training can promote AMPK phosphorylation of skeletal muscle satellite cells in aged mice, and improve energy metabolism of skeletal muscle in aged mice.

Identification of climatic and environmental factors associated with incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Central Iran using satellite imagery

Objective: To determine the effect of climatic and environmental factors on the incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Qom province in 2018. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the data on cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence were collected from the Disease Control and Prevention Center in Qom province. Climatic and environmental data including Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Land Surface Temperature (LST), and soil moisture were extracted using satellite images. Data of altitude and sunny hours were provided based on shuttle radar topography mission digital elevation model and hemispherical viewshed algorithm, respectively. The associations of climatic and environmental variables with the incidence of the disease were analyzed by Pearson correlation method. The ArcGIS 10.3 software was used to determine the geographical distribution of these factors. Results: There were positive correlations between cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence and the two climatic factors: LST and sunny hours per day (P=0.041, P=0.016), and it had weak negative correlations with the digital elevation model (P=0.27), soil moisture (P=0.54), and NDVI (P=0.62). The time delay analysis showed that in one-, two-, and three month periods, the correlations increased with a 95% confidence interval. Accordingly, the correlation with the three-month time delay was positive and relatively strong between the cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence and LST and sunny hours (P=0.027, P=0.02); nevertheless, there were negative correlations between the cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence and the soil moisture (P=0.27) and NDVI (P=0.62). Conclusions: As Qom is located in one of the semi-arid climate zones, topography and solar energy are important factors affecting the incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in autumn. Therefore, appropriate disease control programs are recommended.

Identification of climatic and environmental factors associated with incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Central Iran using satellite imagery

Objective: To determine the effect of climatic and environmental factors on the incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Qom province in 2018. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the data on cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence were collected from the Disease Control and Prevention Center in Qom province. Climatic and environmental data including Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Land Surface Temperature (LST), and soil moisture were extracted using satellite images. Data of altitude and sunny hours were provided based on shuttle radar topography mission digital elevation model and hemispherical viewshed algorithm, respectively. The associations of climatic and environmental variables with the incidence of the disease were analyzed by Pearson correlation method. The ArcGIS 10.3 software was used to determine the geographical distribution of these factors. Results: There were positive correlations between cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence and the two climatic factors: LST and sunny hours per day (P=0.041, P=0.016), and it had weak negative correlations with the digital elevation model (P=0.27), soil moisture (P=0.54), and NDVI (P=0.62). The time delay analysis showed that in one-, two-, and three month periods, the correlations increased with a 95％ confidence interval. Accordingly, the correlation with the three-month time delay was positive and relatively strong between the cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence and LST and sunny hours (P=0.027, P=0.02); nevertheless, there were negative correlations between the cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence and the soil moisture (P=0.27) and NDVI (P=0.62). Conclusions: As Qom is located in one of the semi-arid climate zones, topography and solar energy are important factors affecting the incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in autumn. Therefore, appropriate disease control programs are recommended.

A de novo marker chromosome 15 in a child with isolated developmental delay

We report a rare case of a 14-month-old male child who was referred for developmental delay. Clinical examination revealed a hypotonic infant with speech delay and no dysmorphic features. The banding cytogenetics revealed a small supernumerary marker chromosome. Upon silver staining, the marker showed the presence of satellite regions on either ends. Further, analysis using fluorescence in situ hybridization on marker chromosome revealed its origin from chromosome 15.

Engraftment of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived myogenic progenitors restores dystrophin in mice with duchenne muscular dystrophy

BACKGROUND: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating genetic muscular disorder with no effective treatment that is caused by the loss of dystrophin. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) offer a promising unlimited resource for cell-based therapies of muscular dystrophy. However, their clinical applications are hindered by inefficient myogenic differentiation, and moreover, the engraftment of non-transgene hiPSC-derived myogenic progenitors has not been examined in the mdx mouse model of DMD. METHODS: We investigated the muscle regenerative potential of myogenic progenitors derived from hiPSCs in mdx mice. The hiPSCs were transfected with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) vector and defined as EGFP hiPSCs. Myogenic differentiation was performed on EGFP hiPSCs with supplementary of basic fibroblast growth factor, forskolin, 6-bromoindirubin-3'-oxime as well as horse serum. EGFP hiPSCs-derived myogenic progenitors were engrafted into mdx mice via both intramuscular and intravenous injection. The restoration of dystrophin expression, the ratio of central nuclear myofibers, and the transplanted cells-derived satellite cells were accessed after intramuscular and systemic transplantation. RESULTS: We report that abundant myogenic progenitors can be generated from hiPSCs after treatment with these three small molecules, with consequent terminal differentiation giving rise to mature myotubes in vitro. Upon intramuscular or systemic transplantation into mdx mice, these myogenic progenitors engrafted and contributed to human-derived myofiber regeneration in host muscles, restored dystrophin expression, ameliorated pathological lesions, and seeded the satellite cell compartment in dystrophic muscles. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the muscle regeneration potential of myogenic progenitors derived from hiPSCs using non-transgenic induction methods. Engraftment of hiPSC-derived myogenic progenitors could be a potential future therapeutic strategy to treat DMD in a clinical setting.

A systematic review of load control in football using a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)

Abstract Aim: This systematic review aimed to evaluate various Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) receivers, based on the frequency applied, the number of satellites available, and the dilution of precision (DOP) presented to measure football player load control. Method: The systematic review followed the PRISMA recommendations. Four hundred and eighty-five articles were selected from two online databases (Scopus and ISI Web of Science) over five years, with 21 studies selected for this review. In these studies, the GNSS frequency ranged from 5 to 18 Hz, with 10 Hz as the most commonly used frequency. Results: Of the 21 selected studies, 20 presented the ideal horizontal dilution of precision (HDOP), and the number of satellites available varied from 5 to 20. There was no consensus on defining speed, acceleration, or deceleration zones. Conclusion: There was no uniformity in data collected from the devices. Most GNSS receivers do not adopt the international system of units (SI).

Effect of Early Treadmill Exercise and Massage on Activative Factors of Muscle Satellite Cells after Acute Injury of Skeletal Muscle in Rats / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To study the effect of treadmill exercise and massage shortly after acute injury on expression of key growth factor in muscle satellite cells activation, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) / mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) / extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK)1/2 signaling pathways in muscle satellite cell in rats. Methods:A total of 40 SPF male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into groups A (n = 8), B (n = 8), C (n = 8), D (n = 8) and E (n = 8). Group A did not receive any treatment, while the other rats were contused the gastrocnemius muscle with self-made impactor. Group B received no intervention, groups C and D received massage and treadmill exercise shortly after injury, respectively, while group E received both treadmill exercise and massage shortly after injury. As the model was established, samples of gastrocnemius were obtained from all the rats 24 hours after injury, and observed under HE staining, detected the expression of MyoD1 and MyoG mRNA with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and expression of IGF-1, p-MAPK, p-MEK and p-ERKI/2 protein with Western blotting. Results:The expression of MyoD1 mRNA was more in groups C, D and E than in group B, which was the most in group C; less expression of MyoG mRNA, which was the most in group E (P < 0.05). The expression of p-MAPK, p-MEK and p-EPK1/2 was more in groups C, D and E than in group B, which was the most in group D (P < 0.05). The expression of IGF-1 increased in group C compared with that in group B (P < 0.05), and it decreased in group D (P < 0.05). Conclusion:Early intervention of treadmill exercise and massage may promote the activation of muscle satellite cells in different ways.

Effects of Tuina on Muscle-specific microRNA and Factors Related with Proliferation and Differentiation of Muscle Satellite Cells in Denervation-induced Atrophy in Rats / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To investigate the effects and mechanism of Tuina on denervation-induced atrophy. Methods:A total of 42 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham group (n = 6), model group (n = 18) and Tuina group (n = 18). The model group and Tuina group freed and excised right tibia nerve about one centimeter, while the sham group freed the right tibia nerve only. From the second day after operation, Tuina group accepted Tuina on the injured area, while the sham group and the model group were only fixed without any intervention. Six rats were sacrificed on the 14th, 21st and 28th day after operation in the model and Tuina groups, and the sham group was sacrificed on the 28th day after operation. The gastrocnemius muscles were measured wet weight ratio. The diameter and area of muscle cells were measured under HE staining. The expression of Pax7, MyoD, MyoG, microRNA-1, microRNA-133a and microRNA-206 in the gastrocnemius muscles were detected with reverse transcription real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results:Compared with the sham group, the wet weight ratio, the area of muscle cells (except the 14-day-Tuina group) and the diameter of muscle cells decreased at each time point in the model group and Tuina group (P < 0.05); compared with the model group, the wet weight ratio, muscle cell diameter and muscle cell area increased at each time point in Tuina group (P < 0.05). Compared with the sham group, the expression of Pax7 increased in the 14-day-model group (P < 0.05) and decreased in the 28-day-model group (P < 0.05), and it increased at each time point (except 28-day) in Tuina group (P < 0.05); compared with the model group, the expression of Pax7 increased at each time point in Tuina group (P < 0.05). Compared with the sham group, the expression of MyoD and MyoG increased at each time point in the model group and Tuina group (P < 0.05); compared with the model group, the expression of MyoD and MyoG increased at each time point (except 14-day) in Tuina group (P < 0.05). Compared with the sham group, the expression of microRNA-1 and microRNA-133a decreased, and microRNA-206 increased in the model group and Tuina group at 21-day (P < 0.05); compared with the model group, the expression of microRNA-1, microRNA-133a and microRNA-206 increased in Tuina group (P < 0.05). Conclusion:Tuina may activate the Pax7/MyoD/MyoG pathway by increasing the expression of muscle-specific microRNA, to promote the proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cells, and delay denervation-induced atrophy.

Nerve growth factor interferes with proliferation and alpha-actin expression of skeletal muscle satellite cells in rats / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Clinical studies have confirmed that the injection of nerve growth factor into the nerve damage site can improve the motor function of skeletal muscle. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of nerve growth factor on the proliferation of primary skeletal muscle satellite cells in rats. METHODS: The original generation of rat skeletal muscle satellite cells were cultivated by the tissue block method, and the third generation of skeletal muscle satellite cells were divided into three groups. The control group was added with culture medium; the low concentration group and the high concentration group were added with culture medium containing 10, 20 U/mL nerve growth factors, respectively. At 2, 4 and 6 days after culture, the cell morphology was observed by inverted phase contrast microscope and hematoxylin-eosin staining, and the expression of α-actin was observed by immunohistochemistry. At 1, 2, 3, and 4 days after culture, CCK-8 assay was used to detect the cell proliferation activity. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Inverted phase contrast microscope displayed that with the increase of culture time, the number of skeletal muscle satellite cells in each group increased gradually, and the cell morphology gradually changed from round to fusiform, spindle or polygonal, and gradually fused and arranged along the same direction, and the number of cells in high concentration group was more than that in low concentration group and control group (P 0.05). (4) The CCK-8 assay results showed that cell viability of low and high concentration groups was higher than that of control group (P=0.000). (5) Above results confirm that high and low concentrations of nerve growth factors could promote the proliferation of skeletal muscle satellite cells, but had no effect on the expression of α-actin in skeletal muscle satellite cells.