Futtrupagerskov8606

Ecological stoichiometry provides a new method for understanding the characteristics, driving forces and mechanisms of C, N and P coupled cycles. However, there are few reports on the variation in ecological stoichiometry of plants during their growth. In this study, we fitted the total elemental mass of different module based on the size of Nitraria tangutorum, and derived the ecological stoichiometry models of different module and whole ramet by measuring the biomass and nutrient concentrations of the current-year stems in 2017, 2-year-old stems, more than 2-year-old stems, leaves, roots and layerings of N. tangutorum ramet. Our results showed that the derivation model could well reflect the changes in ecological stoichiometry during plant growth. The old stems and the layering had higher NP and CP, while leaves,current-year stems, and roots had lower NP and CP. The whole plant nutrient elements cumulative rate was PNC during the growth process. These results were consistent with the growth rate hypothesis and allometric theory, and provide evidence for nutrient reabsorption. This model could be used as an effective way to analyze the dynamic characteristics of elements in plant growth.We investigated Betula luminifera populations in three regions (Mulinzi, Qizimei Mountains, and Jinzi Mountains) in the southwest Hubei Province, China. Population structure was divided by age classes and height classes. Population structure figures were drawn. The static life tables of B. luminifera populations in different regions were analyzed using the method of substitution of space for time. The survival curve, mortality rate curve and disappearance rate curve were created. Four functions of survival analysis were used to analyze the dynamics of B. luminifera population in different regions. The results showed that the B. luminifera populations in three regions were the increasing type. The height class structures were relatively complete. Some age classes were absent from the age structures of B. luminifera populations in Qizimei Mountains and Jinzi Mountains. Although the dynamic index of trees number Vpi＞0, but it was sensitive to external disturbance. The survival of B. luminifera of different age classes varied greatly in static life table, which gradually decreased with increasing age class, with Deevey-type 2 survival curve. The trend of mortality rate changed similarly to the disappearance rate, but fluctuated differently. All B. luminifera populations in different regions appeared to decrease in the early stage and keep dynamically stable in the medium-late stage.We examined biomass characteristics and the potential driving factors of different forest types of Quercus spp. secondary forest in Hunan. A total of fifty plots were divided into five forest types Castanopsis eyri - Rhododendron latoucheae mixed forest (CR), Fagus lucida - Fargesia spathacea mixed forest (FF), Lithocarpus glaber - Damnacanthus indicus + Camellia japonica mixed forest (LDC), C. eyri + Quercus serrata - R. latoucheae mixed forest (CQR), Cyclobalanopsis glauca - Camellia oleifera + R. latoucheae mixed forest (CCR). The biomass of understory vegetation was low in the five forest types, being smaller than 2.3 t·hm-2. There was no significant difference in the biomass of understory shrubs among the five forest types. The biomass of herbage layer in CR was significantly lower than that of the other four forest types. The factors affecting the biomass of understory vegetation varied in different forests types. In CR, biomass of herbaceous layer was negatively correlated with canopy and uniform angle index, whereas total understory biomass was positively correlated with opening degree index. In FF, biomass of shrub layer was negatively correlated with stand canopy density and uniform angle index, while herbaceous biomass and total understory biomass were positively correlated with stand closure. In LDC, herbaceous biomass was positively correlated with the stand aggregation index. In CQR, shrub biomass was negatively correlated with stand mingling index, while herbaceous biomass was positively related with stand density. In CCR, there was no significant correlation between stand structure and understory biomass. To adjust the understory biomass, we should first adjust the horizontal distribution pattern of stand and then adjust the degree of forest cover and tree species structure.A novel coronavirus emerged in human populations and spread rapidly to cause the global coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Although the origin of the associated virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS-CoV-2]) remains unclear, genetic evidence suggests that bats are a reservoir host of the virus, and pangolins are a probable intermediate. SARS-CoV-2 has crossed the species barrier to infect humans and other animal species, and infected humans can facilitate reverse-zoonotic transmission to animals. Considering the rapidly changing interconnections among people, animals, and ecosystems, traditional roles of veterinarians should evolve to include transdisciplinary roles.Background Porcine parvovirus (PPV) is a single-stranded DNA virus that causes porcine reproductive failure. It is of critical importance to study PPV pathogenesis for the prevention and control of the disease. NS1, a PPV non-structural protein, is participated in viral DNA replication, transcriptional regulation, and cytotoxicity. Our previous research showed that PPV can activate nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and then up-regulate the expression of interleukin (IL)-6. Objectives Herein, the purpose of this study is to determine whether the non-structural protein NS1 of PPV also has the same function. Methods Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, western blot, immunofluorescence assay and small interfering RNA (siRNA) were used. Results Our findings demonstrated that PPV NS1 protein can up-regulate the expression levels of IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, PPV NS1 protein was found to induce the phosphorylation of IκBα, then leading to the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB. In addition, the NS1 protein activated the upstream pathways of NF-κB. Meanwhile, TLR2-siRNA assay showed TLR2 plays an important role in the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway induced by PPV-NS1. Conclusions These findings indicated that PPV NS1 protein induced the up-regulated of IL-6 expression through activating the TLR2 and NF-κB signaling pathways. In conclusion, these findings provide a new avenue to study the innate immune mechanism of PPV infection.Background Coinfection with avian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV-J) and reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) is common in chickens, and the molecular mechanism of the synergistic pathogenic effects of the coinfection is not clear. Exosomes have been identified as new players in the pathogenesis of retroviruses. The different functions of exosomes depend on their cargo components. Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the function of co-regulation differentially expressed proteins in exosomes on coinfection of ALV-J and REV. Methods Here, viral replication in CEF cells infected with ALV-J, REV or both was detected by immunofluorescence microscopy. Then, we analyzed the exosomes isolated from supernatants of chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF) cells single infected and coinfected with ALV-J and REV by mass spectrometry. KEGG pathway enrichment analyzed the co-regulation differentially expressed proteins in exosomes. Next, we silenced and overexpressed tripartite motif containing 62 (TRIM62) to evaluate tregulated the actin cytoskeleton.Background Mature oocytes at the metaphase II status (MII-stage oocytes) played an important role in assisted reproductive technology in non-human primates. Objectives In order to improve the proportion of MII-stage oocytes retrieval, three different superovulation protocols were performed on 24 female cynomolgus monkeys. Methods All the monkeys received once-daily injection of follicle-stimulating hormone (25 international unit [IU]) on day 3 of the menstruation, 3-day intervals, twice daily for 8-12 days until the time of human chorionic gonadotropin (1,500 IU) injection, on the 14-17th day of menstruation collecting oocytes. The difference between protocol I and protocol II was that 0.1 mg the gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist was injected on day 1 of the menstruation, while the difference between personalized superovulation protocol and protocol II was that oocytes could be collected on the 14-17th day of menstrual cycle according to the length of each monkey. Results The total number of oocytes harvested using the personalized superovulation protocol was much higher than that using protocol I (p less then 0.05), and the proportion of MII-stage oocytes was significantly greater than that from either superovulation protocol I or II (p less then 0.001 and p less then 0.01 respectively), while the proportion of immature oocytes at the germinal vesicle was less than that from superovulation protocol I (p less then 0.05). Conclusions The personalized superovulation protocol could increase the rate of MII-stage oocytes acquired, and successfully develop into embryos after intracytoplasmic sperm injection, and eventually generated fetus.Background High concentrations of particulate matter less than 2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5) in poultry houses is an important cause of respiratory disease in animals and humans. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that can induce severe respiratory disease in animals under stress or with abnormal immune functions. When excessively high concentrations of PM2.5 in poultry houses damage the respiratory system and impair host immunity, secondary infections with P. aeruginosa can occur and produce a more intense inflammatory response, resulting in more severe lung injury. Objectives In this study, we focused on the synergistic induction of inflammatory injury in the respiratory system and the related molecular mechanisms induced by PM2.5 and P. aeruginosa in poultry houses. Methods High-throughput 16S rDNA sequence analysis was used for characterizing the bacterial diversity and relative abundance of the PM2.5 samples, and the effects of PM2.5 and P. aeruginosa stimulation on inflammation were detected by in vitro and in vivo. Results Sequencing results indicated that the PM2.5 in poultry houses contained a high abundance of potentially pathogenic genera, such as Pseudomonas (2.94%). The lung tissues of mice had more significant pathological damage when co-stimulated by PM2.5 and P. aeruginosa, and it can increase the expression levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α through nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway in vivo and in vitro. Conclusions The results confirmed that poultry house PM2.5 in combination with P. aeruginosa could aggravate the inflammatory response and cause more severe respiratory system injuries through a process closely related to the activation of the NF-κB pathway.Background Feline mammary carcinoma is the third most common cancer that affects female cats. Objectives The purpose of this study was to screen differential serum proteins in feline and clarify the relationship between them and the occurrence of feline mammary carcinoma. Methods Chinese pastoral cats were used as experimental animals. Six serum samples from cats with mammary carcinoma (group T) and six serum samples from healthy cats (group C) were selected. Differential protein analysis was performed using a Label-free technique, while parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) was performed to verify the screened differential proteins. Results A total of 82 differential proteins were detected between group T and group C, of which 55 proteins were down regulated and 27 proteins were up regulated. Apolipoprotein A-I, Apolipoprotein A-II (ApoA-II), Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), Apolipoprotein C-III (ApoC-III), coagulation factor V, coagulation factor X, C1q, albumen (ALB) were all associated with the occurrence of feline mammary carcinoma. Differential proteins were involved in a total of 40 signaling pathways, among which the metabolic pathways associated with feline mammary carcinoma were the complement and coagulation cascade and cholesterol metabolism. According to the Label-free results, ApoB, ApoC-III, ApoA-II, FN1, an uncharacterized protein, and ALB were selected for PRM target verification. The results were consistent with the trend of the label-free. Conclusions This experimen is the first to confirm ApoA-II and ApoB maybe new feline mammary carcinoma biomarkers and to analyze their mechanisms in the development of such carcinoma in feline.Background Congenital portosystemic shunt (cPSS) is one of the most common congenital disorders diagnosed in dogs. Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a frequent complication in dogs with a cPSS and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite HE been a major cause of morbidity in dogs with a cPSS, little is known about the cellular changes that occur in the central nervous system of dogs with a cPSS. Objectives The objective of this study was to characterise the histological changes in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of dogs with cPSS with particular emphasis on astrocyte morphology. Methods Eight dogs with a confirmed cPSS were included in the study. Results Six dogs had substantial numbers of Alzheimer type II astrocytes and all cases had increased immunoreactivity for glial fibrillary acidic protein in the cerebral cortex, even if there were minimal other morphological changes. Conclusions This study demonstrates that dogs with a cPSS have marked cellular changes in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum. The cellular changes that occur in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of dogs with spontaneously arising HE are similar to changes which occur in humans with HE, further validating dogs with a cPSS as a good model for human HE.Background Canine parvovirus (CPV) and feline panleukopenia (FPV) cause severe intestinal disease and leukopenia. Objectives In Korea, there have been a few studies on Korean FPV and CPV-2 strains. We attempted to investigate several genetic properties of FPV and CPV-2. Methods Several FPV and CPV sequences from around world were analyzed by Bayesian phylo-geographical analysis. Results The parvoviruses strains were newly classified into FPV, CPV 2-I, CPV 2-II, and CPV 2-III genotypes. In the strains isolated in this study, Gigucheon, Rara and Jun belong to the FPV, while Rachi strain belong to CPV 2-III. With respect to CPV type 2, the new genotypes are inconsistent with the previous genotype classifications (CPV-2a, -2b, and -2c). The root of CPV-I strains were inferred to be originated from a USA strain, while the CPV-II and III were derived from Italy strains that originated in the USA. Based on VP2 protein analysis, CPV 2-I included CPV-2a-like isolates only, as differentiated by the change in residue S297A/N. Almost CPV-2a isolates were classified into CPV 2-III, and a large portion of CPV-2c isolates was classified into CPV 2-II. Two residue substitutions F267Y and Y324I of the VP2 protein were characterized in the isolates of CPV 2-III only. Conclusions We provided an updated insight on FPV and CPV-2 genotypes by molecular-based and our findings demonstrate the genetic characterization according to the new genotypes.Regenerative medicine using stem cells from various sources are emerging treatment modality in several refractory diseases in veterinary medicine. It is well-known that stem cells can differentiate into specific cell types, self-renew, and regenerate. In addition, the unique immunomodulatory effects of stem cells have made stem cell transplantation a promising option for treating a wide range of disease and injuries. Recently, the medical demands for companion animals have been rapidly increasing, and certain disease conditions require alternative treatment options. In this review, we focused on stem cell application research in companion animals including experimental models, case reports and clinical trials in dogs and cats. The clinical studies and therapeutic protocols were categorized, evaluated and summarized according to the organ systems involved. The results indicate that evidence for the effectiveness of cell-based treatment in specific diseases or organ systems is not yet conclusive. Nonetheless, stem cell therapy may be a realistic treatment option in the near future, therefore, considerable efforts are needed to find optimized cell sources, cell numbers and delivery methods in order to standardize treatment methods and evaluation processes.Background The poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae, is a serious problem in the laying hen industry worldwide. Currently, the foremost control method for D. gallinae is the implementation of integrated pest management, the effective application of which necessitates a precise monitoring method. Objectives The aim of the study was to propose an accurate monitoring method with a reliable protocol for caged-layer poultry farms, and to suggest an objective classification for assessing D. gallinae infestation on caged-layer poultry farms according to the number of mites collected using the developed monitoring method. Methods We compared the numbers of mites collected from corrugated cardboard traps, regarding with length of sampling periods, sampling sites on cage, and sampling positions in farm buildings. The study also compared the mean numbers of mites collected by the developed method with the infestation levels using by the conventional monitoring methods in 37 caged-layer farm buildings. Results The statistical validation provided the suitable monitoring method that the traps were installed for 2 days on feed boxes at 27 sampling points which included three vertical levels across nine equally divided zones of farms. Using this monitoring method, the D. gallinae infestation level can be assessed objectively on caged-layer poultry farms. Moreover, the method is more sensitive than the conventional method in detecting very small populations of mites. Conclusions This method can be used to identify the initial stages of D. gallinae infestation in the caged-layer poultry farms, and therefore, will contribute to establishment of effective control strategies for this mite.The purpose of this study was to investigate the high-level mupirocin resistance (HLMR) in Gram-positive bacteria isolated from companion animals. A total of 931 clinical specimens were collected from diseased pets. The detection of mupirocin-resistant bacteria and plasmid-mediated mupirocin resistance genes were evaluated by antimicrobial susceptibility tests, polymerase chain reactions, and sequencing analysis. Four-hundred and six (43.6%) bacteria were isolated and 17 (4.2%), including 14 staphylococci and 3 Corynebacterium were high-level mupirocin-resistant (MICs, ≥ 1,024 ug/mL) harboring mupA. Six staphylococci of HLMR strains had plasmid-mediated mupA-IS257 flanking regions. The results show that HLMR bacteria could spread in veterinary medicine in the near future.Background There are various Helicobacter species colonizing the stomachs of animals. Although Helicobacter species usually cause asymptomatic infection in the hosts, clinical signs can occur due to gastritis associated with Helicobacter in animals. Among them, Helicobacter pylori is strongly associated with chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, and gastric cancers. As the standard therapies used to treat H. pylori have proven insufficient, alternative options are needed to prevent and eradicate the diseases associated with this bacterium. Cheonwangbosim-dan (CBD), a traditional herbal formula that is popular in East Asia, has been commonly used for arterial or auricular flutter, neurosis, insomnia, and cardiac malfunction-induced disease. Objectives The present study investigated the antimicrobial effect of CBD on H. pylori-infected human gastric carcinoma AGS cells and model mice. Methods AGS cells were infected with H. pylori and treated with a variety of concentrations of CBD or antibiotics. Mice were given 3 oral inoculations with H. pylori and then dosed with CBD (100 or 500 mg/kg) for 4 weeks or with standard antibiotics for 1 week. One week after the last treatment, gastric samples were collected and examined by histopathological analysis, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunoblotting. Results Our results showed that CBD treatment of AGS cells significantly reduced the H. pylori-induced elevations of interleukin-8, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). In the animal model, CBD treatment inhibited the colonization of H. pylori and the levels of malondialdehyde, inflammation, proinflammatory cytokines, iNOS, and COX-2 in gastric tissues. CBD also decreased the phosphorylation levels of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase family. Conclusions This study suggests that CBD might be a prospective candidate for treating H. pylori-induced gastric injury.Background Pseudorabies, also known as Aujeszky's disease, is caused by the pseudorabies virus (PRV) and has been recognized as a critical disease affecting the pig industry and a wide range of animals around the world, resulting in great economic losses each year. Shandong province, one of the most vital food animal-breeding regions in China, has a very dense pig population, within which pseudorabies infections were detected in recent years. The data, however, on PRV epidemiology and coinfection rates of PRV with other major swine diseases is sparse. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the PRV epidemiology in Shandong and analyze the current control measures. Methods In this study, a total number of 16,457 serum samples and 1,638 tissue samples, which were collected from 362 intensive pig farms (≥ 300 sows/farm) covered all cities in Shandong, were tested by performing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results Overall, 52.7% and 91.5% of the serum samples were positive for PRV-gE and -gB, respectively, based on ELISA results. In addition, 15.7% of the tissue samples were PCR positive for PRV. The coinfection rates of PRV with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, and classical swine fever virus were measured; coinfection with PCV2 was 35.0%, higher than those of the other two viruses. Macroscopic and microscopic lesions were observed in various tissues during histopathological examination. Conclusions The results demonstrate the PRV prevalence and its coinfection rates in Shandong province and indicate that pseudorabies is endemic in pig farms in this region. This study provides epidemiological data that can be useful in the prevention and control of pseudorabies in Shandong, China.Background Despite common use of tylosin in turkeys, the pharmacokinetic (PK) data for this drug in turkeys is limited. Within a few months of growth, PK of drugs in turkeys undergoes changes that may decrease their efficacy due to variable internal exposure. Objectives The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of age on the PK of a single intravenous (i.v.) and oral administration of tylosin to turkeys at a dose of 10 and 50 mg/kg, respectively. Methods Plasma drug concentrations were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. The PK parameters were assessed by means of non-compartmental approach and were subjected to allometric analysis. Results During a 2.5-month-long period of growth from 1.4 to 14.7 kg, the median value for area under the concentration-time curve after i.v. administration increased from 2.61 to 7.15 mg × h/L and the body clearance decreased from a median of 3.81 to 1.42 L/h/kg. Over the same time, the median elimination half-life increased from 1.03 to 2.96 h. For the oral administration a similar trend was noted but the differences were less pronounced. Bioavailability was variable (5.76%-21.59%) and age-independent. For both routes, the plasma concentration of the major tylosin metabolite, tylosin D, was minimal. Protein binding was age-independent and did not exceed 50%. Allometric analysis indicated a relatively poor predictivity of clearance, volume of distribution and elimination half-life for tylosin in turkeys. Conclusions Age has a significant impact on tylosin PK in turkeys and dosage adjustment may be needed, particularly in young individuals.Background A nationwide outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in South Korea caused massive economic losses in 2010. Since then, the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (QIA) has enhanced disinfection systems regarding livestock to prevent horizontal transmission of FMD and Avian influenza (AI). Although the amount of disinfectant used continues to increase, cases of FMD and AI have been occurring annually in Korea, except 2012 and 2013. Objectives This study measured the concentration of the disinfectant to determine why it failed to remove the horizontal transmission despite increased disinfectant use. Methods Surveys were conducted from February to May 2017, collecting 348 samples from disinfection systems. The samples were analyzed using the Standards of Animal Health Products analysis methods from QIA. Results Twenty-three facilities used inappropriate or non-approved disinfectants. Nearly all sampled livestock farms and facilities-93.9%-did not properly adjust the disinfectant concentration. The percentage using low concentrations, or where no effective substance was detected, was 46.9%. Furthermore, 13 samples from the official disinfection station did not use effective disinfectant, and-among 72 samples from the disinfection station-88.89% were considered inappropriate concentration, according to the foot-and-mouth disease virus guidelines; considering the AIV guideline, 73.61% were inappropriate concentrations. Inappropriate concentration samples on automatic (90.00%) and semi-automatic (90.90%) disinfection systems showed no significant difference from manual methods (88.24%). Despite this study being conducted during the crisis level, most disinfectants were used inappropriately. Conclusions This may partially explain why horizontal transmission of FMD and AI cannot be effectively prevented despite extensive disinfectant use.Background Physical exercise is known to cause significant joint changes. Thus, monitoring joint behavior of athletic horses is essential in early disorders recognition, allowing the proper management. Objectives The aims of this study were to determine the morphological patterns, physical examination characteristics and ultrasound findings of show jumping horses in training and to establish a score-based examination model for physical and ultrasound follow-ups of metacarpophalangeal joint changes in these animals. Methods A total of 52 metacarpophalangeal joints from 26 horses who were initially in the taming stage were evaluated, and the horses' athletic progression was monitored. The horses were evaluated by a physical examination and by B-mode and Doppler-mode ultrasound examinations, starting at time zero (T0), which occurred concomitantly with the beginning of training, and every 3 months thereafter for a follow-up period of 18 months. Results The standardized examination model revealed an increase in the maximum joint flexion angles and higher scores on the physical and ultrasound examinations after scoring was performed by predefined assessment tools, especially between 3 and 6 months of evaluation, which was immediately after the horses started more intense training. The lameness score and the ultrasound examination score were slightly higher at the end of the study. Conclusions The observed results were probably caused by the implementation of a training regimen and joint adaptation to physical conditioning. The joints most likely undergo a pre-osteoarthritic period due to work overload, which can manifest in a consistent or adaptive manner, as observed during this study. Thus, continuous monitoring of young athlete horses by physical and ultrasound examinations that can be scored is essential.The rapid spread of severe acute respiratory coronavirus syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the population and throughout the cells within our body has been developing. Another major cycle of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is expected in the coming fall, could be even more severe than the current one. Therefore, effective countermeasures should be developed based on the already obtained clinical and research information about SARS-CoV-2. The aim of this review was to summarize the data on the empirical treatment of COVID-19 acquired during this SARS-CoV-2 infection cycle; this would aid the establishment of an appropriate healthcare policy to meet the challenges in the future. The infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 is characterized by common cold along with hypersensitivity reaction. Thus, in addition to treating common cold, it is essential to minimize the exposure of cells to the virus and to mitigate the uncontrolled immune response. A proper combination of antiviral agents, immune modulators such as prednisolone, and anticoagulants such as heparin and anti-C5a antagonists could be employed to minimize lung damage and prevent systemic involvements. Finally, strategies to achieve population immunity against SARS-CoV-2 should be developed through understanding of the interaction between the immune system and the virus.This corrects the article on p. 290 in vol. 30, PMID 25729252.The neurologic manifestations concerning coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are highly penetrated. Anosmia and ageusia are one of the common acute neurologic symptoms, which develop in the early stage of COVID-19. However, it is not reported that how immunosuppressive agents affect these symptoms. We report olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) treated with etanercept during COVID-19. A 53-year-old female showing AS controlled with tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitor, etanercept, had been diagnosed with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, presenting cough and rhinorrhea. One month after diagnosis, she complained about hyposmia and hypogeusia two days before the seronegative conversion of SARS-CoV-2, which were confirmed by a neurological examination. We speculate that the etanercept may have delayed the development of olfactory and gustatory dysfunction in the patient.Background The world is currently experiencing a pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In Korea, as in other countries, the number of confirmed cases and deaths due to COVID-19 have been rising. This study aimed to calculate the burden of disease due to COVID-19 in Korea. Methods We used data on confirmed cases and deaths due to COVID-19 between January 20 and April 24, 2020 provided by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the local governments and the public media to determine disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by sex and age. Morbidity was estimated directly among the confirmed, cured, and fatal cases. Disability weights were adopted from previous similar causes on the severity of COVID-19 for the years of life lived with disability (YLDs). The years of life lost (YLLs) were calculated using the standard life expectancy from the 2018 life tables for each sex and age. Results The YLDs were higher in females (155.2) than in males (105.1), but the YLLs were higher in males (1,274.3) than in females (996.4). The total disease burden attributable to COVID-19 in Korea during the study period, was estimated to be 2,531.0 DALYs, and 4.930 DALYs per 100,000 population. The YLDs and the YLLs constituted 10.3% and 89.7% of the total DALYs, respectively. The DALYs per 100,000 population were highest in people aged ≥ 80 years, followed by those aged 70-79, 60-69, and 50-59 years, but the incidence was the highest in individuals aged 20-29 years. Conclusion This study provided the estimates of DALYs due to COVID-19 in Korea. Most of the disease burden from COVID-19 was derived from YLL; this indicates that decision-makers should focus and make an effort on reducing fatality for preparing the second wave of COVID-19.Background Endoscopy is used for diagnosing and treating various digestive diseases in children as well as in adults. However, in pediatric patients, it is recommended that sufficient sedation should be ensured before conducting endoscopy, since insufficient sedation may cause serious complications. However, in Korea, no studies have yet described the types of sedation drugs, effects of sedation, and efficiency of endoscopy with respect to the sedation instructor. Thus, we investigated the effectiveness of sedative procedures performed by anesthesiologists. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients aged less then 18 years who underwent endoscopy during March 2014-July 2019. Data of sedation instructors, sedation drugs and their doses, complications, and the recovery after sedation were evaluated. Results Of 257 patients, 217 underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and 40 underwent colonoscopies. Before EGD, 29 patients (13.4%) underwent sedation by the pediatric endoscopist and , various drugs are used with sufficient doses and complications are reduced, but the discharge time does not change. For performing pediatric endoscopy in Korea, anesthesiologists should be considered for inducing anesthesia.Background The digits-in-noise (DiN) test is a speech-in-noise test to measure speech recognition threshold in noise adaptively. Herein, we aimed to develop the Korean version of the DiN test to provide a useful hearing screening tool for clinical as well as research purposes. Method Spoken monosyllabic digits from 0 to 9 were recorded by a female speaker. The test list was constructed such that each digit was placed in three different positions. An optimization procedure was conducted to equate the audibility of each digit. After the optimization, the smartphone application for the Korean DiN (K-DiN) test was developed. For the adaptive measurement procedure, 180 new DiN triplets separated into six lists of 30 were created. Mean speech recognition threshold values for each list and session were measured to examine the test-retest and training effects of the test materials. In addition, speech recognition threshold values measured by different devices were compared to determine whether the speech recognition threshold levels differed. Results Optimization results showed that the mean speech recognition threshold and slope were ?11.55 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 10.21%/dB, respectively, which are comparable to levels shown in different-language versions of the DiN test. The results of the test-retest and training effects revealed no significant differences among the test sessions and lists. Additionally, the mean speech recognition threshold values measured by four different devices were not different, indicating the reliability of the test materials. Conclusion We believe this study is the first to attempt to develop a K-DiN test. Our results indicate that this test can be used as a potentially reliable hearing screening tool.Background This study compared inequalities in the longitudinal trajectory of health measured by latent growth curves (LGCs) in Korea and six other developed European countries. Methods Unconditional and conditional LGCs were fitted, with standardized self-rated health (SRH) as the outcome variable. Two nationally-representative longitudinal datasets were used the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe (2007-2015; 2,761 Swedish, 2,546 Danish, 2,580 German, 2,860 French, 2,372 Spanish, and 2,924 Italian respondents) and the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (2006-2014; 8,465 Korean respondents). Results The unconditional patterns of SRH trajectory were similar and unfavorable for women across the countries. Social factors such as education and income generally exerted a significant impact on health trends among older adults. Korea showed less favorable results for the disadvantaged than the advantaged as compared with Denmark, Germany, and France, which was consistent with theoretical expectations. nitial SRH status.Background Disease-specific factors that predispose patients to diverse cardiac diseases in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been established. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for cardiac involvement in patients with SLE drawn from the Korean Lupus Network (KORNET) registry. Methods A total of 437 patients with SLE recruited from the KORNET registry were included in the analysis. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify risk factors for the development of cardiac involvement during the follow-up period. The hazard ratios for risk factors of cardiac involvement were assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank test. Results Of 437 patients with SLE, 12 patients (2.7%) developed new cardiac involvement during a median follow-up period of 47.6 months. Frequencies in men and in patients with anti-Sm antibody, anti-Ro antibody, and at least one Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology damage index (SDI) score in patients with cardiac involvement were higher, compared to those without cardiac involvement (P less then 0.001, P = 0.026, P = 0.015, and P less then 0.001, respectively). Men gender, older age, anti-Sm antibody, SDI, and corticosteroid dosage were potent predictors for cardiac involvement in patients with SLE in the determination of risk factors for cardiac involvement. Men, anti-Sm antibody positivity, and SDI ≥ 1 increased incidence rates of cardiac involvement for (P less then 0.001, P = 0.036, and P less then 0.001, respectively). Conclusion The results of this study reveal that SLE-related factors such as anti-Sm antibody, SDI, and corticosteroid dosage at baseline are risk factors for cardiac involvement in SLE.Background Neurocritical care by dedicated neurointensivists may improve outcomes of critically ill patients with severe brain injury. In this study, we aimed to validate whether neurointensive care could improve the outcome in patients with critically ill acute ischemic stroke using the linked big dataset on stroke in Korea. Methods We included 1,405 acute ischemic stroke patients with mechanical ventilator support in the intensive care unit after an index stroke. Patients were retrieved from linking the Clinical Research Center for Stroke Registry and the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service data from the period between January 2007 and December 2014. The outcomes were mortality at discharge and at 3 months after an index stroke. The main outcomes were compared between the centers with and without dedicated neurointensivists. Results Among the included patients, 303 (21.6%) were admitted to the centers with dedicated neurointensivists. The patients treated by dedicated neurointensivists had significantly lower in-hospital mortality (18.3% vs. 26.8%, P = 0.002) as well as lower mortality at 3-month (38.0% vs. 49.1%, P less then 0.001) than those who were treated without neurointensivists. After adjusting for confounders, a treatment without neurointensivists was independently associated with higher in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR], 1.59; 95% confidence intervals [CIs], 1.13-2.25; P = 0.008) and 3-month mortality (OR, 1.48; 95% CIs, 1.12-1.95; P = 0.005). Conclusion Treatment by dedicated neurointensivists is associated with lower in-hospital and 3-month mortality using the linked big datasets for stroke in Korea. This finding stresses the importance of neurointensivists in treating patients with severe ischemic stroke.Recently, the gut microbiome has become an important field of interest. Indeed, the microbiome has been associated to numerous drug interactions and it is thought to influence the efficacy of pharmacologic treatments. Although statins are widely prescribed medications, there remains considerable variability in its therapeutic response. In this context, we aimed to investigate how statins modulate the gut microbiome and, reversely, how can the microbiome influence the course of anti-hypercholesterolemic treatment. We conducted a systematic review by searching four online databases, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Studies addressing gut microbiome changes following statin treatment and those assessing statins' response and associating it with patients' microbiome were included. Due to the limited number of results, we decided to include studies enrolling both humans and animals. We summarized information from three human and seven animal studies and aimed to assess the influence of gut microbiome composition on statin response (Outcome 1) and to evaluate the impact of statin treatment on the gut microbiome (Outcome 2). An association between a certain microbiome composition that promoted the lipid-lowering effect of statins was found. However, what kind of microorganisms and how they can exert this effect remains uncertain. Furthermore, statins might have a role in the modulation of the gut microbiome, but then again, it is still unknown whether this change is directly caused by the drug or another metabolic mechanism. Even though gut microbiota may have several potential therapeutic implications, its use as a personalized predictive biomarker requires further studies.The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway plays a significant role in mediating cellular physiological activities, such as proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and senescence. This signaling pathway is composed of several major proto-oncogenes of RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, among which the BRAF proto-oncogene, as one of the three members of the RAF family, has a higher mutation rate than ARAF and CRAF and has attracted extensive attention. Regarding the BRAF mutation, approximately 95% of BRAF mutations belong to the BRAF V600E mutation, which can enhance the expression of the MAPK signaling pathway and is thus related to the occurrence and development of various malignant tumors and has been successfully identified as a therapeutic target. Moreover, drug resistance to BRAF inhibitor treatment also appears to be an important issue. Considering the successful use of BRAF inhibitors in melanoma, we provide a brief overview of the BRAF mutations, including their basic structures and activation mechanisms, and the new classification method for BRAF mutations. Most importantly, we summarize the results of BRAF inhibitor treatment in different sarcomas. To overcome drug resistance to BRAF inhibitor treatment, we also outline the different mechanisms of drug resistance to BRAF inhibitor treatment and introduce the combination strategy of BRAF inhibitors with other targeted therapies.Aims Diuretic resistance is common in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). When loop diuretic monotherapy is ineffective, thiazides are often recommended as adjunctive therapy, but these agents have many side effects and are associated with worsened survival. In contrast, sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i's), initially developed as glucose-lowering medications for type 2 diabetes, improve heart failure outcomes. A candidate contributory mechanism for this benefit is their diuretic effects. We sought to describe the safety and efficacy of SGLT-2i's as loop diuretic adjuvants in ADHF. Methods and results We retrospectively analysed patients who received adjuvant SGLT-2i therapy between August 2016 and June 2018 at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Thirty-one patients comprised the cohort, 58% of whom had type 2 diabetes. Compared with the 24 h prior to SGLT-2i initiation, average weight loss improved (1.0 ± 2.2 kg, P = 0.03 at Day 1; 1.7 ± 4.9 kg, P = 0.08 at Day 2; and 2.1 ± 5.6 kg, P = 0.06 at Day 3), as did urine output (3.7 ± 2.0 L, P = 0.002 at Day 1; 3.4 ± 1.7 L, P = 0.02 at Day 2; and 3.1 ± 1.7 L, P = 0.02 at Day 3) while loop diuretic dosing remaining stable. Creatinine remained unchanged during the 3 days after initiation, as did blood pressure and the incidence of hypokalaemia (P = NS for all). Conclusions In this cohort of patients with ADHF, SGLT-2i's improved weight loss, urine output, and diuretic efficiency without worsening of creatinine, potassium, or blood pressure. Further study of SGLT-2i's as a loop diuretic adjuvant is warranted.At the time of diagnosis, approximately 15%-20% of patients with rectal cancer (RC) presented synchronous liver metastasis (SLM), which is the most common cause of death in patients with RC. Therefore, preoperative, noninvasive, and accurate prediction of SLM is crucial for personalized treatment strategies. Recently, radiomics has been considered as an advanced image analysis method to evaluate the neoplastic heterogeneity with respect to diagnosis of the tumor and prediction of prognosis. In this study, a total of 1409 radiomics features were extracted for each volume of interest (VOI) from high-resolution T2WI images of the primary RC. Subsequently, five optimal radiomics features were selected based on the training set using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method to construct the radiomics signature. In addition, radiomics signature combined with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) was included in the multifactor logistic regression to construct the nomogram model. It showed an optimal predictive performance in the validation set as compared to that in the radiomics model. The favorable calibration of the radiomics nomogram showed a nonsignificant Hosmer-Lemeshow test statistic (P > .05). The decision curve analysis (DCA) showed that the radiomics nomogram is clinically superior to the radiomics model. Therefore, the nomogram amalgamating the radiomics signature and clinical risk factors serve as an effective quantitative approach to predict the SLM of primary RC.The present status of antibiotic research requires the urgent invention of novel agents that act on multidrug-resistant bacteria. The World Health Organization has classified antibiotic-resistant bacteria into critical, high and medium priority according to the urgency of need for new antibiotics. Naturally occurring uridine-derived "nucleoside antibiotics" have shown promising activity against numerous priority resistant organisms by inhibiting the transmembrane protein MraY (translocase I), which is yet to be explored in a clinical context. The catalytic activity of MraY is an essential process for bacterial cell viability and growth including that of priority organisms. Muraymycins are one subclass of naturally occurring MraY inhibitors. Despite having potent antibiotic properties, the structural complexity of muraymycins advocates for simplified analogues as potential lead structures. Herein, we report a systematic structure-activity relationship (SAR) study of serine template-linked, simplified muraymycin-type analogues. This preliminary SAR lead study of serine template analogues successfully revealed that the complex structure of naturally occurring muraymycins could be easily simplified to afford bioactive scaffolds against resistant priority organisms. This study will pave the way for the development of novel antibacterial lead compounds based on a simplified serine template.To assess the outcome of a novel method of preventing facial pressure ulcers in spinal surgery and a review of literature. A prospective trial using a novel method of facial protection using paraffin tulle gras dressing to cover bony prominences during spinal surgical procedures was performed. Patients were reviewed at 24 hours and 6 weeks. A telephone survey was also conducted post discharge. Over an 8-month period, 12 patients (7F5M, age 9-72 years) underwent spine surgery for tumour stabilisation (n = 7), deformity correction (n = 4), and degenerative presentation (n = 1) with mean operative time of 472 minutes (range 150-785 minutes) in prone position. All patients were managed by the same team using an agreed protocol. No pressure ulcers were noted in our study. One patient sustained minimal erythema, which resolved after 24 hours. All patients were satisfied with the care received. Facial pressure ulcers though much reduced are still common in spinal surgery. The common factors are the long duration of surgery, shear, friction, moisture, and intrinsic factors. Our strategy of an appropriate facial support and constant vigilance helped eliminate the incidence of iatrogenic facial ulcers in spinal surgery.We previously reported that in rat skeletal muscle, disuse (i.e., decreased muscle contractile activity) rapidly increases thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), which is implicated in the reduced glucose uptake. Accordingly, we sought herein to (a) determine the effect of exercise (i.e., increased muscle contractile activity) on muscle TXNIP protein expression, and (b) elucidate the mechanisms underlying the changes of TXNIP protein expression in response to exercise. Rat epitrochlearis and soleus muscles were dissected out after an acute bout of 3-hr swimming (without weight loading) or 3-hr treadmill running (15% grade at 9m/min). In a separate protocol, the isolated epitrochlearis and soleus muscles were incubated for 3 hr with AMP-dependent protein kinase activator AICAR. Immediately after the cessation of the 3-hr swimming, the TXNIP protein was decreased in epitrochlearis but not in soleus muscle. Conversely, 3-hr treadmill running decreased the TXNIP protein in soleus but not in epitrochlearis muscle. TXNIP protein was decreased concomitantly with reduced postexercise muscle glycogen, showing that a decrease in TXNIP protein expression occurs in muscles that are recruited during exercise. In addition, 3-hr incubation with AICAR decreased TXNIP protein in both isolated epitrochlearis and soleus muscles. Our results suggest that (a) an acute bout of exercise downregulates TXNIP protein expression in rat contracting skeletal muscles, and (b) the reduction in TXNIP protein expression in contracting muscles is probably mediated by AMPK activation, at least in part.We present the case of a male who shortly after birth developed acute respiratory distress due to bilateral choanal atresia, following which he was found to have rectal stenosis. Genetic testing for CHARGE syndrome was negative, but whole genome sequencing identified heterozygosity for a pathogenic missense variant in TP63 (c.727C > T, p.(Arg243Trp). He also has partial cutaneous syndactyly of the third and fourth fingers of the right hand, and bilateral lacrimal duct stenosis/aplasia. A later maxillofacial review identified a palpable submucousal cleft and his scalp hair is blond and slightly sparse. Choanal atresia and rectal stenosis are recognized features of ectrodactyly-ectodermal dysplasia-clefting syndrome, but we believe this is the first report of a case presenting with these features in the absence of the cardinal features.