Infected Control Group Research Articles

Cyclooxygenase 2 as a Marker of Early Pregnancy Loss in Cytomegalovirus Infection

Background. Increased expression of cyclooxygenase 2 in the placenta plays a significant role in the formation of placental disorders in the pathological course of pregnancy. It was shown that a high level of expression of cyclooxygenase 2 leads to excessive synthesis of prostaglandins, which stimulate the contractile activity of the uterine myometrium and trigger the abortion mechanism. An analysis of modern literature has shown a lack of data proving the involvement of cyclooxygenase 2 in the pathogenesis of early miscarriages in cytomegalovirus infection. Objective. To establish the pathogenetic role of cyclooxygenase 2 in early pregnancy in the course of miscarriage during exacerbation of cytomegalovirus infection. Materials and methods. The study included 86 women with a gestational age of 8–12 weeks, of which 46 women with spontaneous abortion (O03) and exacerbation of cytomegalovirus infection (main group) and 40 women with medical abortion (O04) without cytomegalovirus infection (control group). The material for the study was peripheral blood serum, urine, homogenate of the villous chorion of the placental tissue. The content of cyclooxygenase 2, the level of IgM and IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus, low-type IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus (avidity index) were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; the content of arachidonic acid – by capillary gas-liquid chromatography. Results. During the study, women of the main group found an increase in the concentration of arachidonic acid by 59 % (p < 0.001) and the activity of the lipolytic enzyme cyclooxygenase 2 – by 58 % (p < 0.001) in the placenta villous chorion homogenate. Conclusion. With an exacerbation of cytomegalovirus infection in the homogenate of the villous placenta chorion of pregnant women with spontaneous abortion, an increase in the content of arachidonic acid and the level of cyclooxygenase 2 is observed. An increased level of cyclooxygenase 2 indicates the development of pregnancy complications and can be used as a non-specific marker predictor of pregnancy termination during exacerbation of cytosis.

Efficiency of Three Extracts of Carica papaya as Molluscicidal and Anti-schistosomal Agents against Biomphalaria alexandrina and Schistosoma mansoni by Flow Cytometry

Schistosomias is a prevalent parasitic disease in tropical and sub-tropical areas, which comes in the second place in terms of socioeconomic and public health burden. Around 600 million people in 74 countries are infected yearly, predominantly in the developing world. The aim of this work was to assess the efficiency of three extracts from Carica papaya (methanol, ethanol and butanol extracts) for their molluscicidal and anti-schistosomal activities. The LC50 of methanol, ethanol and butanol extracts of Carica papaya against B. alexandrinea were 180, 499.3 and 509.1 mg/L while the respective LC90 values were 220.3, 700.6, 769.6 mg/L respectively. The effect of these extracts on Biomphalaria alexandrina snails and larval stages of Schistosma mansoni, for miracidia the LC50 of methanol, ethanol and butanol extracts of Carica papaya against miracidia were 3.4, 15.4 and 8.1 mg/L, respectively, while the respective LC90 values were 8.4, 38.2, 11.2 mg/L, and for cercariae the LC50 of methanol, ethanol and butanol extracts of Carica papaya were 2, 20 and 4 mg/L, while the respective LC90 values were 13.5, 80.5, 18.5 mg/L respectively was evaluated, in addition to flowcytometric analysis of CD4, CD25, FOXP3 and TGF-β levels during S. mansoni infection in mice. The in-vivo results showed that the three extracts have variable potential against snails and miracidia and cercariae of S. mansoni. The mortality rate in B. alexandrina snails for methanol, ethanol and butanol extracts of Carcia papay were 86%, 45% and 64%, respectively. While it was 83%, 35% and 66%, respectively in miracidia and 92%, 40% and 70%, respectively in cercariae. The results indicated that methanol extract from Carica papaya recorded higher activity against snails, miracidia and cercariae. The levels of CD4, CD25, FOXP3 regulatory T (Treg) cells were decreased significantly (p<0.001) in infected mice compared to healthy controls. However, there was a significant (p<0.001) increase in levels of TGF-β. A significant increase in the levels of CD4, CD25, and FOXP3 Treg in Carica papaya treated group compared to infected control group, with a significant (p<0.001) decrease in TGF-β level than infected group. In conclusion, methanol extract was more effective at concentration of LC50 180 and LC90 220.3 than ethanol and butanol extracts of Carica papaya therefore controlling B. alexandrina snails by methanol extract is a promising way as it is an eco-friendly strategy in rural areas of developing countries, where schistosomiasis is endemic. Moreover, the increased immune defense mechanism in treated group with the same extracts is a promising target for new immune modulatory strategies against schistosomiasis.

Study on therapeutic effect of Chaiyin Particles on combining disease with syndrome of human coronavirus pneumonia with pestilence attacking lung syndrome based on regulation of immune function

According to the classification of traditional Chinese medicine syndromes of coronavirus disease 2019 by the national competent authority, this study determined that human coronavirus 229 E(HCoV-229 E) was infected in a mouse model of cold and dampness syndrome, so as to build the human coronavirus pneumonia with pestilence attacking lung syndrome model. The model can simulate the traditional Chinese medicine treatment of common disease syndromes in Coronavirus Disease 2019 Diagnosis and Treatment Program(the sixth edition for trial). Specific steps were as follows. ABALB/c mouse model of cold and dampness syndrome was established, based on which, HCoV-229 E virus was infected; then the experiment was divided into normal control group, infection control group, cold-dampness control group, cold-dampness infection group(the model group), high-dose Chaiyin Particles group(8.8 g·kg~(-1)·d~(-1)), and low-dose Chaiyin Particles group(4.4 g·kg~(-1)·d~(-1)). On the day of infection, Chaiyin Particles was given for three consecutive days. Lung tissues were collected the day after the last dose, and the lung index and inhibition rate were calculated. The nucleic acid of lung tissue was extracted, and the HCoV-229 E virus load was detected by Real-time fluorescent quantitative RT-PCR. Blood leukocytes were separated, and the percentage of T and B lymphocytes was detected by flow cytometry. Lung tissue protein was extracted, and IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and IFN-γ contents were detected by ELISA. High and low-dose Chaiyin Particles significantly reduced the lung index(P<0.01) of mice of human coronavirus pneumonia with pestilence attacking the lung syndrome, and the inhibition rates were 61.02% and 55.45%, respectively. Compared with the model control group, high and low-dose Chaiyin Particles significantly increased cross blood CD4~+ T lymphocytes, CD8~+T lymphocytes and total B lymphocyte percentage(P<0.05, P<0.01), and reduced IL-10, TNF-α and IFN-γ levels in lungs(P<0.01). In vitro results showed that TC_(50), TC_0, IC_(50) and TI of Chaiyin Particles were 4.46 mg·mL~(-1), 3.13 mg·mL~(-1), 1.12 mg·mL~(-1) and 4. The control group of in vitro culture cells had no HCoV-229 E virus nucleic acid expression. The expression of HCoV-229 E virus nucleic acid in the virus control group was 1.48×10~7 copies/mL, and Chaiyin Particles significantly reduced HCoV-229 E expression at doses of 3.13 and 1.56 mg·mL~(-1), and the expression of HCoV-229 E nucleic acid was 9.47×10~5 and 9.47×10~6 copies/mL, respectively. Chaiyin Particles has a better effect on the mouse model with human coronavirus pneumonia with pestilence attacking the lung syndrome, and could play a role by enhancing immunity, and reducing inflammatory factor expression.

Therapeutic effect of Compound Qinlan Oral Liquid on treating combining disease with syndrome of human coronavirus pneumonia with pestilence attacking lung syndrome

The aim of this paper was to investigate the therapeutic effect of Compound Qinlan Oral Liquid recommended by Provincial Novel Coronary Virus Pneumonia Treatment Scheme on the treatment of BALB/c mice with combining disease with syndrome of human coronavirus pneumonia with pestilence attacking lung syndrome and to explore its clinical application in the treatment of novel coronavirus pneumonia, and to provide laboratory data support for clinical Chinese medicine. According to the classification of syndromes of novel coronavirus pneumonia by the national competent department of traditional Chinese medicine, this study determined that human coronavirus 229 E(HCoV-229 E)-infected mouse model of cold and dampness syndrome can be used to study human coronavirus pneumonia combined with pestilence attacking the lung syndrome model. This model is suitable for simulating traditional Chinese medicine treatment of common disease syndromes in Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia Diagnosis and Treatment program(trial implementation of the sixth edition). Specific steps are as follows. BALB/c mice of cold and dampness syndrome is infected with HCoV-229 E virus, and were divided into normal control group, infection control group, cold-dampness control group, cold-dampness infection group(the model group), and Compound Qilan Oral Liquid high dose group(22 mL·kg~(-1)·d~(-1)) and low dose group(11 mL·kg~(-1)·d~(-1)). On the day of infection, the Compound Qilan Oral Liquid was administered for three consecutive days. On the last dosing day, the lung tissue was dissected, and the lung index and inhibition rate were calculated. The nucleic acid of lung tissue was extracted and the HCoV-229 E virus load was detected by RT-PCR. Blood leukocytes were separated and the percentage of T and B lymphocytes was detected by flow cytometry. Lung tissue protein was extracted and the contents of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and IFN-γ were detected by ELISA. Serum was separated and the contents of gastrin(GAS) and motilin(MTL) were detected by ELISA. Histopathological analysis was performed with lung tissue. The high and low doses of Compound Qinlan Oral Liquid significantly reduced the lung index(P<0.01) of mice with combining disease with syndrome of human coronavirus pneumonia with pestilence attacking lung syndrome, and the inhibition rates were 59.01% and 47.72%, respectively. Compared with the model control group, the high and low doses of Compound Qinlan Oral Liquid significantly reduced lung tissue viral load(P<0.01), increased cross blood CD4~+ T lymphocytes, CD8~+ T lymphocytes and total B lymphocyte percentage(P<0.01), reduced serum motilin content(P<0.01), reduced IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and IFN-γ levels in lungs(P<0.01) and reduced lung tissue inflammation. Compound Qinlan Oral Liquid has a better effect on the mouse model with combining disease with syndrome of human coronavirus pneumonia with pestilence attacking lung syndrome, which may attribute to its function of in virus replication inhibition, gastrointestinal function improvement, immunity enhancement, and inflammatory factor reduction.

Therapeutic effect of erythropoietin on brain injury in premature mice with intrauterine infection.

ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to explore the protective effect of erythropoietin (EPO) on brain injury induced by intrauterine infection in premature infants and its related mechanism, so as to provide reference for clinical medication.MethodsIntrauterine infection model is established by injecting lipopolysaccharide into pregnant mice, and HE staining of mouse placenta is used to judge whether the model of intrauterine infection is successful or not. Fifteen female rats are successfully pregnant and divided into intrauterine infection group (10 rats) and control group (5 rats). The mice in the intrauterine infection group are intraperitoneally injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg. After delivery, 16 newborn mice in the control group are randomly selected as blank control group. 32 newborn mice in the intrauterine infection group are selected as model group, and then divided into infection group and EPO treatment group, 16 mice in each group. After birth, mice in the blank control group are intraperitoneally injected with 0.2 mL saline daily. The infected mice are intraperitoneally injected with 0.2 mL saline daily. The mice in the EPO treatment group are intraperitoneally injected with recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) 5000 IU/kg daily. HE staining results, EPOR protein and NMDAR1 mRNA expression in brain tissue of three groups of neonatal mice were compared.ResultsFirstly, the blood vessels of the mice in the intrauterine infection group are markedly hyperemic and edematous, and the infiltration of neutrophils is increased. The white matter structure of the neonatal mice in the intrauterine infection group is loose and stained lightly. The nerve fibers in the brain are different in thickness and disordered in arrangement. The nucleus is small and dark stained. The number of glial cells in brain tissue increases significantly. Secondly, the EPOR protein expression and physiological level of neonatal mice in intrauterine infection group increase significantly at 3, 7 and 14 days after birth. Compared with the blank control group, the difference is statistically significant (P < 0.05). On the 3rd day after birth, the expression level of EPOR protein in the EPO treated group is significantly higher than that in the intrauterine infection group (P < 0.05). Thirdly, the expression level of NMDA R1mRNA in brain tissue of neonatal mice at birth, on the 3rd and 7th day after EPO treatment is significantly lower than that of intrauterine infection group (P < 0.05).ConclusionEPO can promote the proliferation and differentiation of brain endogenous neural stem cells, and has a certain therapeutic effect on brain injury of premature mice caused by intrauterine infection.

Efficacy of probiotic Enterococcus faecium in combination with diclazuril against coccidiosis in experimentally infected broilers.

The study was conducted to investigate the combination of a probiotic strain of Enterococcus faecium and diclazuril to control coccidiosis in broilers. A total of 240 one-day-old female broiler chicks were divided into eight groups (30 chicks per group): prophylactic groups (G1, G2 and G3) and therapeutic groups (G4, G5 and G6) and two control groups (untreated infected, G7 and untreated uninfected, G8 controls). In the prophylactic approach, diclazuril alone (G1), probiotic alone (G2) or a mixture of both probiotic and diclazuril (G3) was orally administered to the chicks via drinking water 10days prior to the infection. However, in the therapeutic approach, G4, G5 and G6 birds were administered diclazuril alone, probiotic alone and diclazuril+probiotic mix, respectively, in drinking water for five consecutive days after the appearance of clinical signs of coccidiosis. Birds of both approaches and G7 were experimentally infected with 25×103 Eimeria-sporulated oocysts. Chicks in G3 showed the highest weight gain, the lowest lesion score, a low oocyst count and mortality rate among the challenged groups. Moderate lesion scores and oocyst counts were observed in chickens administered probiotics prophylactically. In the therapeutic approach, broilers in G6 but not G5 displayed a decreased mortality rate and lesion score in comparison to those in G7 and G8. However, the result of the probiotic-treated group was not significantly different from that in the untreated infected control group. The probiotic supplementation as a prophylactic approach can decrease the adverse effects of eimerian infection. In addition, the probiotic and diclazuril mix achieved a considerable improvement in the growth performance. Therefore, probiotic plus diclazuril combination achieved a synergistic effect. Investigation into the synergism/antagonism between a probiotic and diclazuril as anticoccidial agent and the difference in the timing of administration.

CHENOPODIUM AMBROSIOIDES OIL EXTRACT REDUCED CRYPTOSPORIDIUM PARVUM DEVELOPMENT IN VIVO

Cryptosporidium is a widespread parasite transmitted through contaminated food and water; it could lead to severe gastrointestinal disease in immunocompromised hosts. To date, no specific therapy proved to be effective against Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum). The present work studied the efficacy of Chenopodium ambrosioides (CA) oil extract on C. parvum infected dexamethasone (DEX) immunosuppressed mice. Infected im unosuppressed mice (n=70) were divided into 14 groups of five mice each according to different concentrations of received treatments either CA oil extract at doses of 75, 100, 125, 150 & 175mg/kg/day alone or in combination with nanoparticles or nitazoxanideat doses of 50 & 100mg/kg/day alone or in combination with nanoparticles. Five infected non-treated mice were included as an infected control group; five non- infected & non-treated mice were enrolled as a normal control one. Anti-Cryptosporidium efficacies of different treatment regimens were evaluated in the 16th mice groups microscopically by detection of C. parvum oocysts in fecal pellets and histopathological examination of their small intestines. The results showed that different concentrations of CA oil extract induced a significant reduction in the mean number of C. parvum oocysts. The rate of oocysts reduction was parallel to the increasing concentrations of the drug. The inhibitory effects of CA oil extract on the parasite were enforced by adding nanoparticles. Histopathological examination of mice intestine revealed that CA did not show toxic effect on intestinal mucosa even with high doses.

CHENOPODIUM AMBROSIOIDES OIL EXTRACT REDUCED CRYPTOSPORIDIUM PARVUM DEVELOPMENT IN VIVO

Cryptosporidium is a widespread parasite transmitted through contaminated food and water; it could lead to severe gastrointestinal disease in immunocompromised hosts. To date, no specific therapy proved to be effective against Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum). The present work studied the efficacy of Chenopodium ambrosioides (CA) oil extract on C. parvum infected dexamethasone (DEX) immunosuppressed mice. Infected im unosuppressed mice (n=70) were divided into 14 groups of five mice each according to different concentrations of received treatments either CA oil extract at doses of 75, 100, 125, 150 & 175mg/kg/day alone or in combination with nanoparticles or nitazoxanideat doses of 50 & 100mg/kg/day alone or in combination with nanoparticles. Five infected non-treated mice were included as an infected control group; five non- infected & non-treated mice were enrolled as a normal control one. Anti-Cryptosporidium efficacies of different treatment regimens were evaluated in the 16th mice groups microscopically by detection of C. parvum oocysts in fecal pellets and histopathological examination of their small intestines. The results showed that different concentrations of CA oil extract induced a significant reduction in the mean number of C. parvum oocysts. The rate of oocysts reduction was parallel to the increasing concentrations of the drug. The inhibitory effects of CA oil extract on the parasite were enforced by adding nanoparticles. Histopathological examination of mice intestine revealed that CA did not show toxic effect on intestinal mucosa even with high doses.

Health-related quality of life assessment using EQ-5D-Y questionnaire in a group of Egyptian asthmatic children

hildren's quality of life. We sought to investigate the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a sample of Egyptian asthmatic children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Unit of Ain Shams University, including three groups of age and gender-matched children, aged 6-12 years; an asthma group (n=100), non-asthmatic group with respiratory tract infections (n=114), and a healthy control group (n=100). The EQ-5D-Y questionnaire was used to evaluate the HRQoL in each study group. This questionnaire also comprises a visual analogue scale (VAS) which is scored from zero (worst) to 100 (best) as judged by the patient. Results: HRQoL assessment revealed that 86% of the asthmatic children faced problems with their daily activities, 43 % had worries, sadness and unhappiness and 22% had mobility problems (walking around). Thirteen percent of the cases expressed some pain or discomfort due to their disease, while self-care was the least affected (6%). Parameters of mobility, doing usual activities, feeling worried or sad were more frequently affected among the asthmatics in comparison to the other two groups (X2 = 37.02, 46.38, 22.90, respectively with p <0.001). Enrolled asthmatic children showed the lowest values of visual analogue scale (VAS) scores (mean ± SD: 72.2 ± 24.6) in comparison to the infection and healthy control groups (mean ± SD: 84.6 ± 12, 92.8 ± 9.6, respectively; f = 39.03; p value = 0.001). Conclusion: Asthma has a significant adverse impact on HRQoL of children and the EQ-5D-Y questionnaire could be an applicable instrument to measure their quality of life.

EVALUATION OF PLUMBAGIN AS A POTENTIAL THERAPEUTIC AGENT FOR MURINE SCHISTOSOMIASIS MANSONI

Schistosomiasis still one of the major health problems worldwide, affecting millions of people in economically challenged tropical and subtropical countries of the world. Currently the treatment of schistosomiasis relies on a single anti-parasitic drug praziquantel; however it was found it is not fully effective and the potential for development of resistant to praziquantel has justified the research for new alternative chemotherapies especially from natural sources. The current study evaluated the anti-parasitic effect of plumbagin against S. mansoni infected mice either alone or in combination with praziquantel through, parasitological parameters (worm load, oogram pattern, liver and intestine egg load) and histopathological parameters (granuloma number and diameter). Plumbagin showed a significant reduction in total worm burden (P <0.05), increase in dead eggs in oogram pattern and reduction in tissue ova count. Mean hepatic granulomas number and diameter were decreased with elevation in percentage of degenerated ova, compared to control group. Results were improved when praziquantel was used in combination with plumbagin as no male or coupled worm were detected, no immature ova and highly significant reduction in tissue egg load in liver and intestine (P < 0.001) compared to infected control group.

EVALUATION OF PLUMBAGIN AS A POTENTIAL THERAPEUTIC AGENT FOR MURINE SCHISTOSOMIASIS MANSONI

Schistosomiasis still one of the major health problems worldwide, affecting millions of people in economically challenged tropical and subtropical countries of the world. Currently the treatment of schistosomiasis relies on a single anti-parasitic drug praziquantel; however it was found it is not fully effective and the potential for development of resistant to praziquantel has justified the research for new alternative chemotherapies especially from natural sources. The current study evaluated the anti-parasitic effect of plumbagin against S. mansoni infected mice either alone or in combination with praziquantel through, parasitological parameters (worm load, oogram pattern, liver and intestine egg load) and histopathological parameters (granuloma number and diameter). Plumbagin showed a significant reduction in total worm burden (P <0.05), increase in dead eggs in oogram pattern and reduction in tissue ova count. Mean hepatic granulomas number and diameter were decreased with elevation in percentage of degenerated ova, compared to control group. Results were improved when praziquantel was used in combination with plumbagin as no male or coupled worm were detected, no immature ova and highly significant reduction in tissue egg load in liver and intestine (P < 0.001) compared to infected control group.

Preliminary study of the mechanism of action of ethanamizuril against Eimeria tenella.

Ethanamizuril (EZL) is a novel triazine compound with excellent anticoccidial activity. We carried out a preliminary investigation of the effects of EZL on the different life cycle stages of Eimeria tenella. EZL mainly acted on the schizogony stage, with peak activity during the second-generation merozoite stage. We also studied the possible target of EZL by identifying the majorly differentially expressed gene affected by EZL in second-generation merozoites using real-time polymerase chain reaction, and screening for surface antigen proteins (SAGs). The relative expression levels of SAGs were compared by Western blot analysis showing that expression levels of surface antigen family member (SAGfm) and SAG19 were significantly downregulated by EZL. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that SAGfm and SAG19 were localized on the surface of second-generation merozoites. In addition, fluorescence signals were significantly stronger in second-generation merozoites of infected non-medicated control (INC) group compared with that of the EZL group. Therefore, it was speculated that SAGs might be a potential target of EZL action. The inhibitory effects of anticoccidial drugs on SAG levels in coccidia thus warrant further research.

Multi-Drug-Resistant Bacterial Infection after Pancreatoduodenectomy: Risk Factors and Clinical Impact.

Background: Infection by multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacteria is a high-risk factor for poor clinical results. Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) has been associated with a high rate of complications, including intra-abdominal infections. However, there are few data available regarding MDR infection in patients undergoing PD. This study evaluated the present situation of risk factors for and clinical impact of MDR infection on patients who received PD. Methods: A total of 357 consecutive patients who underwent PD in our department from January 2016 to June 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. They were grouped into those with MDR infection (observation group) and those without MDR infection (control group). Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to identify risk factors for MDR infection in the two groups and the relations between MDR infection and clinical outcome. Results: Infections by MDR bacteria occurred in 38 patients (10.6%), and a total of 49 MDR bacterial strains were detected. Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most common strains. Multivariable analysis suggested that pancreatic fistula (p = 0.001) and post-operative use of quinolones (p = 0.000) were risk factors for MDR infection. At the same time, MDR infection was an independent risk factor for an increase in the 30-day in-hospital mortality rate (p = 0.005). Conclusions: Intensive intra-operative management to reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula as well as curtailing empirical use of antibiotics, especially quinolones, may help to reduce the incidence of MDR infection and thus in-hospital deaths.

Mesenchymal stem cells reduce both inflammation and mortality in chronic cerebral murine toxoplasmosis

Abstract Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) are self-renewing, clonal precursors of non-haematopoietic tissues, with anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effect. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of BM-MSCs on chronic toxoplasmosis. BM-MSCs were isolated from 6-wk-old BALB/c donor male mice, then grown and propagated in culture until cell count was 5–8x106/ml. Female Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups: Group I (infected mice injected with BM-MSCs); Group II (infected mice treated with both BM-MSCs and conventional treatment); Group III (infected mice conventionally treated with Spiramycin-Metronidazole combination); Group IV (infection control group in which mice were infected with Me49 strain of Toxoplasma gondii) and Group V (non-infected mice injected with BM-MSCs). Histopathological examination of brain tissue and survival rate were assessed in each group. Compared to the infection control group and conventionally treated group, the infected mice injected with BM-MSCs showed less tissue damage, mild inflammatory changes in brain sections and low mortality rate. The group treated with both MSCs and conventional treatment showed unexpected sever inflammation and the highest mortality rate.

In vivo immunoprotective comparison between recombinant protein and DNA vaccine of Eimeria tenella surface antigen 4

Eimeria tenella, belonging to protozoon, is the causative agent of cecal coccidiosis in chicken and causes enormous impacts for poultry industry. The surface antigens of apicomplexan parasites function as attachment and invasion in host-parasite interaction. Meanwhile, host immune response is triggered as a result of parasitic invasion. Immunogenicity and potency as a vaccinal candidate antigen of E. tenella surface antigen 4 (EtSAG4) have been unknown. Therefore, a gene segment of E. tenella EtSAG4 was amplified and transplanted to pET28a prokaryotic vector for recombinant protein expression. Similarly, pEGFP-N1 eukaryotic vectors with EtSAG4 gene segment (pEGFP-N1-EtSAG4) amplified in 293 T cells as DNA vaccines. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay and western blot analysis were used to demonstrate successful expressions of EtSAG4 in Escherichia coli or 293 T cells. Subsequently, animal experiments (72 cobb broilers) were performed to evaluate immunoprotective between recombinant protein and DNA vaccine of E. tenella EtSAG4 using different immunizing doses (50 or 100 μg), respectively. Serum from chickens infected with E. tenella identified recombinant EtSAG4 (rEtSAG4) protein. Chickens vaccinated with either rEtSAG4 protein or pEGFP-N1-EtSAG4 plasmids both shown a significant increase in concentration of IFN-γ (p < 0.05) compared with control groups indicating production of cell-mediated immunity. Besides, pEGFP-N1-EtSAG4 plasmids motivated more intense immune responses for immunoglobulin Y (IgY) and interleukin 17 (IL-17) (p < 0.05) contrast to control groups. However, there was no increase in concentration of interleukin 10 (IL-10) and interleukin 4 (IL-4) for both rEtSAG4 protein and pEGFP-N1-EtSAG4 plasmids. Chickens vaccinated with rEtSAG4 protein or pEGFP-N1-EtSAG4 plasmids both show higher weight, lower oocyst output and mean lesion scores compared with infection control groups. The highest anticoccidial index (ACI) value of immunized groups was 168.24 from EGFP-N1-EtSAG4 plasmids (100 μg) group. Generally, EGFP-N1-EtSAG4 plasmids as DNA vaccines provided a more effective immunoprotective for chickens against E. tenalla than that of rEtSAG4 protein as subunit vaccines. EtSAG4 is a promising candidate antigen gene for development of coccidiosis vaccine.

Efficacy of an Oral Solution Prepared from the Ultrasonic Extract of Radix dichroae roots against Eimeria tenella in Broiler Chickens.

This study was conducted to determine the optimal dose of the oral solution of the ultrasonic extract of Radix dichroae (UERD) and to provide experimental support for a safe clinical dose for anticoccidial treatment of broiler chickens. Radix dichroae root extracts were prepared using the ultrasonic extraction method. The anticoccidial activity of the oral solution prepared from the ultrasonic extract of Radix dichroae roots was tested in broiler chickens following oral infection with a field isolate of E. tenella. Ninety Lingnan yellow broiler chickens (14 days old) were randomly divided into nine groups (n = 10), including six UERD oral solution treatments (0.25, 0.50, 1.50, 2.50, 3.50, and 5.00%), a toltrazuril group (0.10%), an E. tenella-infected control group, and a healthy control group. All groups were inoculated orally with 7 × 104 sporulated E. tenella oocysts (Guangdong strain) except for the healthy control group. The chickens in the seven drug-treated groups were administered a UERD oral solution or toltrazuril in drinking water for 7 days. The anticoccidial efficacy of the UERD oral solution was evaluated by the bloody diarrhoea severity level, relative body weight gain (rBWG), lesion score, oocyst per gram (OPG), and anticoccidial index (ACI). Compared with the infected control group, there were no significant differences in the groups treated with UERD oral solution or toltrazuril with regard to the lesion changes in the caecal regions (P > 0.05); however, the blood contents, OPG, and oocyst score in three UERD oral solution treatment groups (0.50, 1.50, and 2.50%) were significantly reduced, and the bloody diarrhoea was also alleviated. The ACI in three UERD oral solution treatment groups (0.50%, ACI = 143.7; 1.50%, ACI = 151.0; and 2.50%, ACI = 144.3) was higher than that in the toltrazuril group (ACI = 127.0), and the rBWG in the 1.50% UERD oral solution treatment group (95.0%) was similar to that in the healthy control group (100%), which was also 12.5% higher than that in the toltrazuril group (82.5%). The findings of this study demonstrated that the UERD oral solution (0.50% ～ 2.50% dose range) showed better prevention, anticoccidial efficacy, and growth promotion effects than toltrazuril (0.10%), and the 1.50% dose level of UERD oral solution in water is the clinically recommended dose according to the present study conditions.

Field Study to Evaluate the Topical Application of Deltamethrin, Cyfluthrin, and Sulfur Efficacy Against Sarcoptic Mange of Rabbit

The acaricidal efficacy of Deltamethrin 5%, Cyfluthrin 10% and Sulfur ointment 10% was evaluated for treatment of sarcoptic mange in farmed rabbits located in Sohag, Egypt, with consideration of the oxidative status and trace elements levels of treated rabbits. The rabbits were diagnosed either negatively or positively infected with sarcoptic mange then divided randomly into 5 different groups, 15 in each. Each group received one treatment; Deltamethrin 5% and Cyfluthrin-citronella oil mixture were both administered as pour on twice with 7 days intervals, while Sulfur ointment applied daily for 4 successive days. Infected and non-infected control groups were used and all investigated rabbits were daily observed. The symptoms subsided at 5th, 8th and 9th days until the 14th day in the treated rabbits with Sulfur ointment, Cyfluthrin 10% and Deltamethrin 5% with acaricidal efficacy of 73.8%, 85.6% and 60.7%; respectively, while the clinical signs disappeared at 28th post treatment for all treatments, but microscopically the efficacy rates were 98%, 100% and 95%; respectively. Conclusively, all tested compounds were effective at 28th post treatment. Deltamethrin is less recommended as it showed the lowest and slowest effect. Cyfluthrin and Sulfur ointment showed a significant correction of oxidative status and trace element level, but not Deltamethrin.

Screening and topical decolonization of preoperative nasal Staphylococcus aureus carriers to reduce the incidence of postoperative infections after lung cancer surgery: a propensity matched study.

Health care-associated infections (HAIs) are serious issues following lung cancer surgery, leading to an increased risk of morbidity and hospital cost burden. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact on postoperative outcomes of a preoperative screening and decolonization strategy of nasal carriers for Staphylococcus aureus prior to lung cancer surgery. We performed a retrospective study comparing 2 cohorts of patients undergoing major lung resection: a control group of patients from the placebo arm of the randomized Clinical Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Chlorhexidine Mouthwashes operated on between July 2012 and April 2015 without any nasopharyngeal screening (N = 224); an experimental group, with preoperative screening for S. aureus of nasal carriers and selective 5-day decolonization in positive carriers using mupirocin ointment between January 2017 and December 2017 (N = 310). The 2 groups were matched according to a propensity score analysis with 1:1 matching. The primary outcome was the rate of postoperative HAIs, and the secondary outcome was the need for postoperative mechanical ventilation after surgery. After matching, 2 similar groups of 108 patients each were obtained. In the experimental group, 26 patients had positive results for nasal carriage, and a significant decrease was observed in the rate of overall postoperative HAIs [control n = 19, 17.6%; experimental group n = 9, 8.3%; P = 0.043; relative risk 0.47 (0.22-1)] and in the rate of postoperative mechanical ventilation [control n = 12, 11.1%; experimental group n = 4, 3.7%; P = 0.038; relative risk 0.33 (0.11-1)]. After logistic regression and multivariable analysis, screening of S. aureus nasal carriers reduced the rate of HAIs [odds ratio (OR) 0.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.11-0.76; P = 0.01] and reduced the risk of the need for postoperative mechanical ventilation (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.05-0.74; P = 0.02). There was no significant statistical difference between the 2 groups regarding the rate of postoperative S. aureus-associated infection (control group n = 6, 5.6%; experimental group n = 2, 1.9%; P = 0.28). Identification of nasal carriers of S. aureus and selective decontamination using mupirocin appeared to have a beneficial effect on postoperative infectious events after lung resection surgery.

Dietary β‐glucan modulate haematological parameters, cytokines and gene expression in TLR and ERK pathways of rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss ) during infection by Aeromonas salmonicida

To explore the role of β‐glucan (0, 0.05%, 0.1% and 0.2%) in resisting bacteria, rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) was challenged with Aeromonas salmonicida after 42‐day β‐glucan administration, and then sampled at 0, 2, 4 and 6 days post infection (dpi). The data showed that 0.2% β‐glucan reduced the accumulated mortality rates compared with the ICG (infected control group) (p < .05). The white blood cells, red blood cells and haemoglobin were higher in the 0.2% β‐glucan group (BG) than the ICG (p < .05). 0.1% and 0.2% β‐glucan elevated serum total antioxidative capability and glutathione activity but alleviated the increase of serum alkaline phosphatase activity and glucose concentration (p < .05) during infection. Serum TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐8 and IgM in three BGs elevated remarkably on 6 dpi compared with the ICG (p < .05). Expression of tnf, il1b and cxcl8 of the head kidney in the 0.1% and 0.2% BGs was higher than the ICG on 4 dpi while ighm expression in the 0.2% BG was higher than in the ICG on 2 and 6 dpi (p < .05). 0.1% and 0.2% β‐glucan increased the expression of tlr5m, tlr5s, tmek and myd88 in the spleen after infection (p < .05). Similarly, 0.2% β‐glucan up‐regulated the expression of tmek, myd88, oncmyk‐dab and c3 in head kidney (p < .05). Overall, 0.2% dietary β‐glucan effectively decreased accumulated mortality rate by modulating the biochemistry process, cytokines, and activating TLR and ERK signalling pathways during A. salmonicida infection.

Application of failure mode and effects analysis on hospital infection control for gynecological malignant tumor

Objective To explore the effects of failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) on hospital infection prevention for gynecological malignant tumor. Methods From January 2017 to December 2018, we selected 25 nurses and clinical staff of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Union Hospital affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology as subjects by cluster sampling. And then, the gynecology hospital infection control group was built. Group members assessed the department's risk of hospital infection by FMEA and put forward improvements for the high risk factors. We compared the risk priority number (RPN) of gynecological malignant tumor patients, catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) and incidence of hospital infection before and after implementing FMEA. Results After implementing FMEA, the total score of RPN risk factors of gynecological malignant tumor patients decreased compared with those before implementation with statistical differences (P 0.05) . Conclusions FMEA has good application effects on hospital infection prevention for gynecological malignant tumor patients which can effectively reflect the weak link of hospital infection management to reduce the incidence of hospital infection of gynecological malignant tumor patients. Key words: Gynecology; Neoplasms; Hospital infection; Failure mode and effects analysis