bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The puzzling mitochondrial phylogeography of the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), the commercially most important insect protein species
Authors: Ståhls Gunilla , Meier Rudolf , Sandrock Christoph , Hauser Martin , Šašić Zorić Ljiljana , Laiho Elina , Aracil Andrea , Doderović Jovana , Badenhorst Rozane , Unadirekkul Phira , Mohd Adom Nur Arina Binte , Wein Leo , Richards Cameron , Tomberlin Jeffery K. , Rojo Santos , Veselić Sanja , Parviainen Tuure
Published: May 2020

Background

The black soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae, Hermetia illucens) is renowned for its bioconversion ability of organic matter, and is the worldwide most widely used source of insect protein. Despite varying extensively in morphology, it is widely assumed that all black soldier flies belong to the same species, Hermetia illucens. We here screened about 600 field-collected and cultured flies from 39 countries and six biogeographic regions to test this assumption based on data for three genes (mitochondrial COI, nuclear ITS2 & 28S rDNA) and in order to gain insights into the phylogeography of the species.

Results

Our study reveals a surprisingly high level of intraspecific genetic diversity for the mitochondrial barcoding gene COI (divergences up to 4.9%). This level of variability is often associated with the presence of multiple species, but tested nuclear markers (ITS2 and 28S rDNA) were invariant and fly strain hybridization experiments under laboratory conditions revealed reproductive compatibility. COI haplotype diversity is not only very high in all biogeographic regions (56 distinct haplotypes in total), but also in breeding facilities and research centers from six continents (10 haplotypes: divergences up to 4.3%). The high genetic diversity in fly-breeding facilities is mostly likely due to many independent acquisitions of cultures via sharing and/or establishing new colonies from field-collected flies. However, explaining some of the observed diversity in several biogeographic regions is difficult given that the origin of the species is considered to be New World (32 distinct haplotypes) and one would expect severely reduced genetic diversity in the putatively non-native populations in the remaining biogeographic regions. However, distinct, private haplotypes are known from the Australasian (N = 1), Oriental (N = 4), and the Eastern Palearctic (N = 4) populations. We reviewed museum specimen records and conclude that the evidence for introductions is strong for the Western Palearctic and Afrotropical regions which lack distinct, private haplotypes.

Conclusions

Based on the results of this paper, we urge the black soldier fly community to apply molecular characterization (genotyping) of the fly strains used in artificial fly-breeding and share these data in research publications as well as when sharing cultures. In addition, fast-evolving nuclear markers should be used to reconstruct the recent invasion history of the species.
An IL17RA frameshift variant in a Holstein cattle family with psoriasis-like skin alterations and immunodeficiency
Authors: Häfliger Irene M. , Sickinger Marlene , Holsteg Mark , Raeder Leif M. , Henrich Manfred , Marquardt Siegfried , Drögemüller Cord , Lühken Gesine
Published: May 2020

Background

Skin lesions and dermatoses in cattle are often associated with infections due to bacteria, fungi or environmental risk factors. Dermatoses with genetic etiology have been described in cattle. Among these rare disorders, there are primary congenital dermatoses that are associated with inherited nutritional deficiencies, such as bovine hereditary zinc deficiency or zinc deficiency-like syndrome. This study presents three cases of Holstein cattle with congenital skin lesions observed on a single farm that resemble zinc deficiency-like syndrome. Close clinical and pathological examinations took place in two cases. Pedigree analysis indicated autosomal recessive inheritance and whole-genome sequencing of both affected calves was performed.

Results

The two calves showed retarded growth and suffered from severe ulcerative dermatitis with hyperkeratosis, alopecia furunculosis and subcutaneous abscess formation. Blood analysis showed correspondent leukocytosis with neutrophilia whereas minerals, macro- and micronutrients were within the reference ranges. Variant calling and filtering against the 1000 Bull Genomes variant catalogue resulted in the detection of a single homozygous protein-changing variant exclusively present in both sequenced genomes. This single-nucleotide deletion in exon 3 of IL17RA on bovine chromosome 5 was predicted to have a deleterious impact on the encoded protein due to a frameshift leading to a truncated gene product. Genotyping of the affected cattle family confirmed recessive inheritance.

Conclusions

A loss-of-function mutation of the IL17RA transmembrane protein could be identified as most likely pathogenic variant for the psoriasis-like skin alterations observed in the two affected Holstein calves. In man, rare recessive diseases associated with IL17RA include immunodeficiency 51 and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. This supports the observed immunodeficiency of the presented cases. This study reports the first naturally occurring IL17RA-associated animal model.
Hydrogen peroxide-producing pyruvate oxidase from Lactobacillus delbrueckii is catalytically activated by phosphotidylethanolamine
Authors: Cornacchione Louis P. , Hu Linden T.
Published: May 2020

Background

Pyruvate oxidase (Pox) is an important enzyme in bacterial metabolism for increasing ATP production and providing a fitness advantage via hydrogen peroxide production. However, few Pox enzymes have been characterized from bacterial species. The tetrameric non-hydrogen-peroxide producing Pox from E. coli is activated by phospholipids, which is important for its function in vivo.

Results

We characterized the hydrogenperoxide-producing Pox from L. delbrueckii strain STYM1 and showed it is specifically activated by phosphotidylethanolamine (16:0–18:1), but not by phosphotidylcholine or phosphotidylglycerol. This activation is a mixture of K- and V-type activation as both km and enzyme turnover are altered. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the L. delbrueckii Pox forms pentamers and either decamers or dimers of pentamers in solution, which is different from other characterized Pox enzymes. Lastly, we generated a C-terminal truncation mutant that was only weakly activated by phosphotidylethanolamine, which suggests the C-terminus is important for lipid activation.

Conclusions

To our knowledge this is the first known hydrogenperoxide-producing Pox enzyme that is activated by phospholipids. Our results suggest that there are substantial differences between Pox enzymes from different bacterial species, which could be important for their role in biological systems as well as in the development of Pox-based biosensors.
Profiles of Staphyloccocus aureus isolated from goat persistent mastitis before and after treatment with enrofloxacin
Authors: Lima Magna Coroa , de Barros Mariana , Scatamburlo Thalita Moreira , Polveiro Richard Costa , de Castro Laís Karolyne , Guimarães Samuel Henrique Sales , da Costa Sanely Lourenço , da Costa Mateus Matiuzzi , Moreira Maria Aparecida Scatamburlo
Published: May 2020

Background

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the main causative agents of mastitis in small ruminants. Antimicrobial use is the major treatment, but there are many flaws linked to resistance, tolerance or persistence. This study aimed to verify changes in resistance, virulence and clonal profiles of S. aureus isolated from persistent mastitis goat milk before and after enrofloxacin treatment.

Results

MIC increased to at least one antimicrobial in S. aureus isolates after enrofloxacin treatment compared to before. The most detected resistance genes before and after treatment were tetK, tetM, and blaZ, with more resistance genes detected after enrofloxacin treatment (p < 0.05). Occasional variations in efflux system gene detection were observed before and after treatment. Nine virulence genes (hla, fnbA, fnbB, eta, etb, sea, sec, seh, and sej) were detected at both times, and between these, the hla and eta genes were detected more in isolates after treatment. All isolates of S. aureus belonged to the same sequence type (ST) 133, except for two S. aureus isolates prior to enrofloxacin treatment which were classified as ST5 and the other as a new one, ST4966. Isolates of S. aureus 4, 8, and 100 from before and after treatment had identical pulse types, while others obtained from other animals before and after treatment were classified into distinct pulse types.

Conclusion

There were occasional changes in the studied profiles of S. aureus isolated before and after treatment of animals with enrofloxacin, which may have contributed to the permanence of bacteria in the mammary gland, even when using traditional treatment, resulting in persistent mastitis.
Discovery of 20 novel ribosomal leader candidates in bacteria and archaea
Authors: Eckert Iris , Weinberg Zasha
Published: May 2020

Background

RNAs perform many functions in addition to supplying coding templates, such as binding proteins. RNA-protein interactions are important in multiple processes in all domains of life, and the discovery of additional protein-binding RNAs expands the scope for studying such interactions. To find such RNAs, we exploited a form of ribosomal regulation. Ribosome biosynthesis must be tightly regulated to ensure that concentrations of rRNAs and ribosomal proteins (r-proteins) match. One regulatory mechanism is a ribosomal leader (r-leader), which is a domain in the 5′ UTR of an mRNA whose genes encode r-proteins. When the concentration of one of these r-proteins is high, the protein binds the r-leader in its own mRNA, reducing gene expression and thus protein concentrations. To date, 35 types of r-leaders have been validated or predicted.

Results

By analyzing additional conserved RNA structures on a multi-genome scale, we identified 20 novel r-leader structures. Surprisingly, these included new r-leaders in the highly studied organisms Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. Our results reveal several cases where multiple unrelated RNA structures likely bind the same r-protein ligand, and uncover previously unknown r-protein ligands. Each r-leader consistently occurs upstream of r-protein genes, suggesting a regulatory function. That the predicted r-leaders function as RNAs is supported by evolutionary correlations in the nucleotide sequences that are characteristic of a conserved RNA secondary structure. The r-leader predictions are also consistent with the locations of experimentally determined transcription start sites.

Conclusions

This work increases the number of known or predicted r-leader structures by more than 50%, providing additional opportunities to study structural and evolutionary aspects of RNA-protein interactions. These results provide a starting point for detailed experimental studies.
Assessment of real-time PCR for Helicobacter pylori DNA detection in stool with co-infection of intestinal parasites: a comparative study of DNA extraction methods
Authors: Leonardi Martina , La Marca Giulia , Pajola Barbara , Perandin Francesca , Ligozzi Marco , Pomari Elena
Published: May 2020

Background

Many studies reported high prevalence of H. pylori infection among patients co-infected with intestinal parasites. Molecular approach for the DNA detection of those microbes in stool have been proposed. However there are a few reports that evaluated the effect of bead-beating in relation to the H. pylori outcome. Therefore, we developed and evaluated two TaqMan-based real-time PCR (rt-PCR) qualitative assays for the detection of ureC (glmM) and cagA of Helicobacter pylori on DNA extracted by three procedures.

Results

The two PCRs were analysed on 100 stool samples from patients who were screened for intestinal parasites. Three DNA extraction procedures were used: 1) automation with bead beating, 2) automation without bead beating and 3) hand column. The specificity of the new assays was confirmed by sequencing the PCR products and by the lack of cross-reactivity with other bacteria or pathogens DNA. Rt-PCR assays showed a detection limit of 10^4 bacteria/200 mg stool. The ureC_PCR with bead beating process was compared to conventional stool antigen test (SAT), with 94.12 and 93.75% of respectively sensitivity and specificity. However, the discordant samples were confirmed by DNA sequencing suggesting a potential higher sensitivity and specificity of PCR.

Conclusions

Our findings showed that the automation with bead-beating –suggested procedure for intestinal parasitic infections- can reach highly sensitive results in H. pylori detection on stool compared also with SAT. Thus, this work can provide new insights into the practice of a clinical microbiology laboratory in order to optimize detection of gastro-intestinal infections. Further studies are needed to better define the clinical value of this technique.
Transcriptome analyses provide insights into the homeostatic regulation of axillary buds in upland cotton (G. hirsutum L.)
Authors: Shi Jianbin , Wang Ning , Zhou Hong , Xu Qinghua , Yan Gentu
Published: May 2020

Background

The axillary bud is an important index of cotton plant-type traits, and the molecular mechanism of axillary bud development in upland cotton has not yet been reported. We obtained a mutant (designated mZ571) with a high-budding phenotype in axillary bud development from the low-budding phenotype variety G. hirsutum Z571 (CCRI 9A02), which provided ideal materials for the study of complex regulatory networks of axillary bud development. In this study, RNA sequencing was carried out to detect gene expression levels during three stages of axillary buds in Z571 (LB, low budding) and mZ571 mutant (HB, high budding).

Results

A total of 7162 DEGs were identified in the three groups (HB-E vs. LB-E, HB-G1 vs. LB-G1, HB-G2 vs. LB-G2), including 4014 downregulated and 3184 upregulated DEGs. Additionally, 221 DEGs were commonly identified in all three groups, accounting for approximately 3.09% of the total DEGs. These DEGs were identified, annotated and classified. A significant number of DEGs were related to hormone metabolism, hormone signal transduction, and starch and sucrose metabolism. In addition, 45, 22 and 9 DEGs involved in hormone metabolic pathways and 67, 22 and 19 DEGs involved in hormone signal transduction pathwayspathway were identified in HB-E vs. LB-E, HB-G1 vs. LB-G1, and HB-G2 vs. LB-G2, respectively, suggesting that endogenous hormones are the primary factors influencing cotton axillary bud growth. Hormone and soluble sugar content measurements revealed that mZ571 exhibited higher concentrations of zeatin, gibberellins and soluble sugar in all three stages, which confirmed that these hormone metabolism-, hormone signal transduction- and starch metabolism-related genes showed interaction effects contributing to the divergence of axillary bud growth between mZ571 and Z571.

Conclusions

Our results confirmed the importance of endogenous hormones and sugars in the development of axillary buds, and we found that mZ571 plants, with a high-budding phenotype of axillary buds, exhibited higher endogenous hormone and sugar concentrations. Overall, we present a model for the emergence and development of cotton axillary buds that provides insights into the complexity and dynamic nature of the regulatory network during axillary bud emergence and development.
Melatonin may increase disease resistance and flavonoid biosynthesis through effects on DNA methylation and gene expression in grape berries
Authors: Gao Shiwei , Ma Wanyun , Lyu Xinning , Cao Xiaolei , Yao Yuxin
Published: May 2020

Background

Melatonin can regulate plant growth, development and biotic responses by causing global changes in gene expression; however, the melatonin-induced changes in gene expression via the modification of DNA methylation remain unclear in plants.

Results

A total of 1,169,852 and 1,008,894 methylated cytosines (mCs) were identified in the control and melatonin-treated grape berries, respectively, and mCs occurred primarily at CG sites, followed by CHG sites and CHH sites. Compared to the control, melatonin treatment broadly decreased methylation levels at CHG and particularly CHH sites in various gene regions. Melatonin treatment generated a total of 25,125 differentially methylated regions (DMRs), which included 6517 DMR-associated genes. RNA-Seq demonstrated that 2479 genes were upregulated, and 1072 genes were repressed by melatonin treatment. The evaluation of the interconnection of the DNA methylome and transcriptome identified 144 genes showing a negative correlation between promoter methylation and gene expression, which were primarily related to biotic stress responses and flavonoid biosynthesis. Additionally, the application of 5́-azacytidine and melatonin led to similar effects on mycelial growth ofB. cinerea, berry decay rate and flavonoid biosynthesis. Moreover,EDS1was used to show that melatonin increased gene expression by decreasing promoter methylation levels.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that melatonin broadly decreased DNA methylation and altered gene expression in grape berries. We propose that melatonin increases disease resistance and flavonoid biosynthesis by decreasing the methylation levels of the promoters of the genes involved.
A novel insight into nitrogen and auxin signaling in lateral root formation in tea plant [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze]
Authors: Hu Shunkai , Zhang Mi , Yang Yiqing , Xuan Wei , Zou Zhongwei , Arkorful Emmanuel , Chen Yi , Ma Qingping , Jeyaraj Anburaj , Chen Xuan , Li Xinghui
Published: May 2020

Background

Tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is one of the most popular non-alcoholic beverages worldwide. In tea, lateral roots (LRs) are the main organ responsible for the absorption of moisture and mineral nutrients from the soil. Lateral roots formation and development are regulated by the nitrogen and auxin signaling pathways. In order to understand the role of auxin and nitrogen signaling in LRs formation and development, transcriptome analysis was employed to investigate the differentially expressed genes involved in lateral roots of tea plants treated with indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA), low and high concentrations of nitrogen.

Results

A total of 296 common differentially expressed genes were identified and annotated to four signaling pathways, including nitrogen metabolism, plant hormone signal transduction, glutathione metabolism and transcription factors. RNA-sequencing results revealed that majority of differentially expressed genes play important roles in nitrogen metabolism and hormonal signal transduction. Low nitrogen condition induced the biosynthesis of auxin and accumulation of transcripts, thereby, regulating lateral roots formation. Furthermore, metabolism of cytokinin and ethylene biosynthesis were also involved in lateral roots development. Transcription factors like MYB genes also contributed to lateral roots formation of tea plants through secondary cell wall biosynthesis. Reversed phase ultra performance liquid chromatography (RP-UPLC) results showed that the auxin concentration increased with the decreased nitrogen level in lateral roots. Thus, tea plant lateral roots formation could be induced by low nitrogen concentration via auxin biosynthesis and accumulation.

Conclusion

This study provided insights into the mechanisms associated with nitrogen and auxin signaling pathways in LRs formation and provides information on the efficient utilization of nitrogen in tea plant at the genetic level.
Impact of changes in head position during head and neck surgery on the depth of tracheal tube intubation in anesthetized children
Authors: Yan Siyi , Zhang Huan
Published: May 2020

Background

The classic formula has been used to estimate the depth of tracheal tube intubation in children for decades. However, it is unclear whether this formula is applicable when the head and neck position changes intraoperatively.

Methods

We prospectively reviewed the data of 172 well-developed children aged 2–12 years (64.0% boys) who underwent head and neck surgery under general anesthesia. The distances from the tracheal carina to the endotracheal tube tip (CT), from the superior margin of the endotracheal tube tip to the vocal cord posterior commissure (CV), and from the tracheal carina to the posterior vocal commissure (TV) were measured in the sniffing position (maximum), neutral head, and maximal head flexion positions.

Results

Average CT and CV in the neutral head position were 4.33 cm and 10.4 cm, respectively. They increased to 5.43 cm and 11.3 cm, respectively, in the sniffing position, and to 3.39 cm and 9.59 cm, respectively, in the maximal flexion position (allP-values < 0.001). TV remained unchanged and was only dependent on age. After stratifying patients by age, similar results were observed with other distances. CT and CV increased by 1.099 cm and 0.909 cm, respectively, when head position changed from neutral head to sniffing position, and decreased by 0.947 cm and 0.838 cm, respectively, when head position changed from neutral head to maximal flexion.

Conclusion

Change in head position can influence the depth of tracheal tube intubation. Therefore, the estimated depth should be corrected according to the surgical head position.
Protective effects of rolipram on endotoxic cardiac dysfunction via inhibition of the inflammatory response in cardiac fibroblasts
Authors: Ji Jingjing , Liu Zhifeng , Hong Xinxin , Liu Zheying , Gao Jinghua , Liu Jinghua
Published: May 2020

Background

Cardiac fibroblasts, regarded as the immunomodulatory hub of the heart, have been thought to play an important role during sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC). However, the detailed molecular mechanism and targeted therapies for SIC are still lacking. Therefore, we sought to investigate the likely protective effects of rolipram, an anti-inflammatory drug, on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated inflammatory responses in cardiac fibroblasts and on cardiac dysfunction in endotoxic mice.

Method

Cardiac fibroblasts were isolated and stimulated with 1 μg/ml LPS for 6 h, and 10 μmol/l rolipram was administered for 1 h before LPS stimulation. mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in fibroblasts and their protein concentrations in supernatant were measured with real-time PCR (rt-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. The expression of dual specificity phosphatase 1 (DUSP1), an endogenous negative regulator that inactivates MAPK-mediated inflammatory pathways, was also measured by rt-PCR and western blotting. DUSP1-targeted small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to examine the specific role of DUSP1. To evaluate the role of rolipram in vivo, an endotoxic mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of 15 mg/kg LPS, and 10 mg/kg rolipram was intraperitoneally injected 1 h before LPS injection. mRNA and protein levels of inflammatory cytokines and DUSP1 in heart, inflammatory cell infiltration and cardiac function were all examined at 6 h after LPS injection.

Results

The results showed that LPS could increase the expression and secretion of inflammatory cytokines and decrease the transcription and expression of DUSP1 in cardiac fibroblasts. However, rolipram pretreatment significantly reversed the LPS-induced downregulation of DUSP1 and inhibited LPS-induced upregulation and secretion of TNF-α and IL-6 but not IL-1β. Moreover, DUSP1-targeted siRNA experiments indicated that the protective effect of rolipram on inflammatory response was specific dependent on DUSP1 expression. Moreover, rolipram could further reduce inflammatory cell infiltration scores as shown by pathological analysis and increase the ejection fraction (EF) detected with echocardiography in the hearts of endotoxic mice.

Conclusions

Rolipram could improve endotoxin-induced cardiac dysfunction by upregulating DUSP1 expression to inhibit the inflammatory response in cardiac fibroblasts, which may be a potential treatment for SIC.
Temporal and spatial trends of ischemic heart disease burden in Chinese and subgroup populations from 1990 to 2016: socio-economical data from the 2016 global burden of disease study
Authors: Wang Chenran , Wang Chunping , Liu Mi , Chen Zhe , Liu Shiwei
Published: May 2020

Background

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the leading cause of premature death which poses public health challenges worldwide. Previous studies focused on the overall population in China. However, variations in temporal and spatial patterns across subgroups remain unknown. This study was to analyze how the IHD burden among Chinese and subgroup populations changes in response to temporal and spatial trends from 1990 to 2016.

Methods

Based on data from the updated estimate in the 2016 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study, we used years lived with disability (YLDs), years of life lost (YLLs), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) to describe the IHD burden. The percentage and annual average percentage changes were applied to illustrate temporal and spatial variations of the IHD burden stratified by age, sex, and province, over the periods 1990–2016, 1990–2005, and 2005–2016. We estimate population-attributable fraction (PAF) for 24 modifiable risk factors at the provincial level in 2016.

Results

YLD rates, YLL rates, and DALY rates for IHD underwent a notable increase among all age groups and increased by 119.4, 83.3, and 84.5% nationally from 1990 to 2016. In YLD rates, a greater increase was seen in females (124.4%) compared to males (114.0%), while males experienced a more substantial increase than that in females in YLL rates (99.3% vs. 60.5%) and DALY rates (99.7% vs. 63.2%) from 1990 to 2016. Compared with 1990–2005, annual average changes in the overall population in YLL rates (3.5% vs. 1.8%) and DALY rates (3.5% vs. 1.9%) showed a tardier increase whereas an opposite increasing trend of YLD rates (3.5% vs. 4.0%) was observed between 2005 and 2016. Geographically, all provinces saw declines in the YLLs/YLDs ratio from 2005 to 2016, with seventeen of thirty-three provinces showing an upward trend between 1990 and 2005. Most provinces witnessed a remarkable upsurge in the age-standardised DALY rate from 1990 to 2016 whereas the economically advantaged region Macao (52.2%) saw the most marked reduction. High systolic blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol remained the two leading risk factors of IHD in all provinces in 2016. Diet high in sodium was the leading behavioral risks in twenty-eight provinces with smoking heading the list in five provinces.

Conclusions

China has made significant achievements in preventing premature death from IHD along with the increased risk of disability. Substantial disparities in temporal and spatial trends of the IHD burden emphasize concerns for elderly men and those in economically disadvantaged regions with resource constraints. Regional differences in the IHD burden can be partly explained by modifiable risk factors. By having identified these disparities, targeted IHD prevention and control strategies will help to bridge these gaps.
Re-engaging an inactive cohort of young adults: evaluating recruitment for the Kidskin Young Adult Myopia Study
Authors: Lingham Gareth , Mackey David A. , Seed Nicola , Ryan Lisa , Milne Elizabeth , Lucas Robyn M. , Franchina Maria , Lee Samantha Sze-Yee , Yazar Seyhan
Published: May 2020

Background

Recent changes in communication technologies, including increased reliance on mobile phones and the internet, may present challenges and/or opportunities to re-engaging inactive study cohorts. We evaluate our ability to recruit participants for the Kidskin Young Adult Myopia Study (KYAMS), a follow-up of the Kidskin Study.

Methods

KYAMS participants were recruited from the Kidskin Study, a sun exposure-intervention study for 5–6 year-olds running from 1995 to 1999 with most recent follow-up in 2005. From 2015 to 2019, the KYAMS used mail-outs, phone calls and social media to contact Kidskin Study participants. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with successful contact of a Kidskin Study participant or family member and KYAMS participation.

Results

Of 1695 eligible participants, 599 (35.5%) participants (or a family member) were contacted and 303 (17.9%) participated in the KYAMS. KYAMS participation was more likely in those who participated in the 2005 follow-up (odds ratio [OR] = 5.09, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.67–7.06) and had a mobile phone number on record (OR = 2.25, CI: 1.57–3.23). Of those contacted, participants who were the first point of contact (OR = 4.84, CI: 2.89–8.10) and who were contacted by letter in the first (OR = 6.53, CI: 3.35–12.75) or second (OR = 5.77, CI: 2.85–11.67) round were more likely to participate in the KYAMS, compared to contact by landline phone.

Conclusions

We recruited approximately one-fifth of Kidskin Study participants for the KYAMS. Participants were more likely to participate in the KYAMS if they were contacted directly, rather than through a family member, and if they were contacted by invitation letter.

Trial registration

ACTRN12617000812392.
Use of partitioned GMM marginal regression model with time-dependent covariates: analysis of Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Study
Authors: Vazquez-Arreola Elsa , Xue Dan , Wilson Jeffrey R.
Published: May 2020

Background

Elderly population’s health is a major concern for most industrial nations. National health surveys provide a measure of the state of elderly health. One such survey is the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. It collects data on risk factors and outcomes on the elderly. We examine these longitudinal survey data to determine the changes in health and to identify risk factors as they impact health outcomes including the elderly’s ability to do a physical check.

Methods

We use a Partitioned GMM logistic regression model to identify risk factors. The model also accounts for the correlation between lagged time-dependent covariates and the outcomes. It addresses present and past measures of time-dependent covariates on simultaneous outcomes. The relation produces additional regression coefficients as byproduct of the Partitioned model, identifying the immediate, delayed effects (lag − 1), further delayed (lag-2), etc. Therefore, the model presents the opportunity for decision makers to monitor the covariate over time. This technique is particularly useful in healthcare and health related research. We use the Chinese Longitudinal Health Longevity Survey data to identify those risk factors and to display the utility of the model.

Results

We found that one’s ability to make own decisions, frequently consuming vegetables, exercise frequently, one’s ability to transfer without assistance, having visual difficulties and being able to pick book from floor while standing had varying effects of significance on one’s health and ability to complete physical checks as they get older.

Conclusions

The partitioning of the covariates as immediate effect, delayed effect or further delayed effect are important measures in a declining population.
Intestinal fistula accompanied by recurrent peritonitis associated with peritoneal dialysis: a case report
Authors: Shao Qiuyuan , Xia Yangyang , Zhang Qingyan , Zhang Miao
Published: May 2020

Background

Intestinal perforation from peritoneal dialysis is rare, but the resulting complications are serious. Some patients do not necessarily have symptoms, and it can be difficult to differentiate their condition from PD-related (peritoneal dialysis-related) peritonitis, which may lead to misdiagnosis. Here we report a peritoneal dialysis patient with intestinal fistula associated with recurrent peritonitis.

Case presentation

A 44-year-old man had been treated for more than 6 years with peritoneal dialysis for chronic kidney disease stage-V. Abdominal computed tomography and electronic colonoscopy revealed an appendiceal fossa with adjacent fistula. The peritoneal dialysis catheter was removed, and the patient recovered with no recurrence of complications.

Conclusion

We report a case of a rare complication of peritoneal dialysis. The intestinal fistula in this patient was mainly caused by recurrent peritonitis and removal of the catheter could control the peritonitis.
Utilization of a new technology of 3D biliary CT for ERCP-related procedures: a case report
Authors: Toki Masao , Tateishi Hidekatsu , Yoshida Tsubasa , Gondo Koichi , Watanabe Shunsuke , Hisamatsu Tadakazu
Published: May 2020

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is still performed using two-dimensional (2D) X-ray images. The success rate and risk of complications are considered operator-dependent. We explored performing an ERCP-related procedure with 3D-computed tomography (CT) biliary imaging for preoperative simulation and intraoperative reference in a patient with malignant biliary obstruction.

Case presentation

The patient was a 66-year-old man who underwent rectal resection and postoperative chemotherapy for rectal cancer. A liver metastasis caused obstructive jaundice and acute cholangitis, necessitating emergency hospitalization. A 3.5 cm mass in the hilar region of the biliary tree caused type IV biliary obstruction according to the Bismuth-Corlette classification of hilar cholangiocarcinoma. ERCP and biliary drainage were performed repeatedly, but had no effect. Given that selective bile duct drainage had proven extremely difficult with the conventional procedures, three-dimensional (3D) images were created from preoperative CT image data using a 3D image reconstruction system (SYNAPSE VINCENT version 5, FUJIFILM Corporation, Tokyo, Japan). Using the 3D images for preoperative planning and intraoperative reference, biliary drainage and stent placement were successfully performed without complications. Postoperatively, the patient had no further cholangitis or need for stent replacement up to his death.

Conclusions

We report the first case of an ERCP-related procedure with 3D biliary imaging for preoperative simulation and intraoperative reference in a patient with malignant biliary obstruction. The 3D image reconstruction is useful for preoperative planning and could contribute to an increased success rate, decreased complications, a shorter operation time, and reduced radiation exposure to the operator.
Suspected Aripiprazole-induced neutropenia in a geriatric patient: a case report
Authors: Torrico Tyler , Kiai Nakisa , Meza Carlos , Salam Md Towhid , Abdijadid Sara
Published: May 2020

Background

Aripiprazole, a third-generation antipsychotic medication, has been used to treat a range of psychiatric disorders. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s prescribing information, the most common adverse reactions in adult patients in clinical trials (≥10%) were nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, akathisia, anxiety, and insomnia. While hematological adverse effects may occur with aripiprazole, there is very limited information in the published literature on such adverse outcomes.

Case presentation

A 68-year-old Caucasian male with treatment resistant depression was hospitalized for suicidal ideation. The patient developed neutropenia after aripiprazole was introduced as an augmentation agent. The neutropenia was reversible with discontinuation of the medication.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, we describe the first case report of suspected neutropenia-induced by aripiprazole use in a geriatric patient. While hematological adverse reactions are rare, we recommend adding CBC to the standard adverse systemic reaction monitoring of antipsychotic medications, particularly among the elderly.
A retrospective study on Xpert MTB/RIF for detection of tuberculosis in a teaching hospital in China
Authors: Li Shuguang , Lin Liyan , Zhang Feifei , Zhao Chunjiang , Meng Han , Wang Hui
Published: May 2020

Background

The Xpert MTB/RIF assay is an automated molecular test that is designed to simultaneously detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) complex and rifampin resistance. However, there are relatively few studies on this method in China. Xpert has been routinely used at Peking University People’s Hospital (PKUPH) since November 2016. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of Xpert, and provide a reference and guidance for the detection and diagnosis of TB in non-TB specialized hospitals.

Methods

The medical records of inpatients simultaneously tested with Xpert, acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear microscopy, and interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA, by T-SPOT®.TB) at PKUPH from November 2016 to October 2018 were reviewed. Active TB cases were considered according to a composite reference standard (CRS). Then, the three methods were evaluated and compared.

Results

In total, 787 patients simultaneously tested with Xpert, AFB, and IGRA were enrolled; among them 11.3% (89/787) were diagnosed and confirmed active pulmonary TB (PTB, 52 cases), extrapulmonary TB (EPTB, 17 cases), and tuberculous pleurisy (TP, 20 cases). The sensitivity of Xpert in detecting PTB, EPTB, and TP was 88.5, 76.5, and 15.0%, respectively, which was slightly lower than IGRA (96.2, 82.4, and 95.0%, respectively), but higher than AFB (36.5, 11.8, and 0%, respectively); IGRA showed the highest sensitivity, but its specificity (55.9, 67.1, and 45.2%, respectively) was significantly lower than Xpert (99.6, 99.4, and 100%, respectively) and AFB (99.0, 99.4, and 100%, respectively) (P < 0.001). The sensitivity of Xpert in detecting lung tissue, cerebrospinal fluid, lymph nodes, and joint fluid was 100%, followed by sputum (88.5%), alveolar lavage (85.7%), and bronchoscopy secretion (81.2%); the pleural fluid sensitivity was the lowest, only 15.0%. For AFB negative patients, the sensitivity of Xpert in detecting PTB, EPTB, and TP was 84.9, 73.3, and 15.0%, respectively.

Conclusions

Xpert showed both high sensitivity and high specificity, and suggested its high value in TB diagnosis; however, the application of pleural fluid is still limited, and should be improved. Owing to the high sensitivity of IGRA, it is recommended for use as a supplementary test, especially for assisting in the diagnosis of TP and EPTB.
Prevalence and risk factors related to poor outcome of patients with severe Plasmodium vivax infection: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and analysis of case reports
Authors: Kotepui Manas , Kotepui Kwuntida Uthaisar , Milanez Giovanni De Jesus , Masangkay Frederick Ramirez
Published: May 2020

Background

Plasmodium vivaxrarely develops severe complications when compared to severe falciparum malaria. However, severe vivax malaria also needs urgent, intensive care and treatment as severe falciparum malaria. This systematic review aimed to explore pooled prevalence of severe vivax malaria and to identify factors related to poor outcome of patients who developed severe manifestation.

Methods

The systematic review conducted by two reviewers independently through searching of research publications related to severeP. vivaxmalaria in three databases including MEDLINE, Web of Science (ISI), and Scopus until October, 22 2019. The pooled prevalence of severe vivax malaria was achieved using STATA and RevMan 5 Software. Factors related to poor outcome of patients with severe vivax malaria were analyzed using SPSS 11.5 Software.

Results

Among 2615 research publications retrieved from three databases, 49 articles reporting on 42,325 severity cases were selected for calculating pooled prevalence. Seventy-six patients from case reports, case series, letter to editors, and research communications were collected to identify factors related to poor outcome of patients with severe vivax malaria. The results showed that severe anemia, jaundice, respiratory distress, impaired consciousness, and renal failure were the most common major manifestations of severe malaria guided by the World Health Organization (WHO) criterion. The meta-analysis indicated that severe malaria was less frequent in patient withP. vivaxcompared to those withP. falciparum(P-value < 0.00001, OR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.25–0.56, I2 = 87%). In addition, thrombocytopenia, anemia, hepatitis, and severe thrombocytopenia were the most common minor complications. Analysis of cases indicated that convulsion, respiratory distress, renal failure, jaundice, anuria/oliguria, and complication during treatment impacted on longer hospital stays compared to other severe complications (P-value < 0.05). Respiratory distress was frequently found after first treatment with anti-malarial drugs (P-value = 0.002). Renal failure was frequently found before treatment with anti-malarial drugs (P-value = 0.016). Mean days of fever and higher pulse rates at presentation were predictors of poor outcome among patients with severe vivax malaria (P-value < 0.05).

Conclusions

Severe anemia was the most common major manifestation ofP. vivaxmalaria guided by the WHO criterion. Severe anemia was found less frequently in patients withP. vivaxthan those withP. falciparum. Renal failure, jaundice, anuria/oliguria, and complication during treatment along with, mean days of fever and higher pulse rates at presentation might be predictors of poor outcome of patients with severe vivax malaria.
Successful bedaquiline-containing antimycobacterial treatment in post-traumatic skin and soft-tissue infection by Mycobacterium fortuitum complex: a case report
Authors: Erber Johanna , Weidlich Simon , Tschaikowsky Tristan , Rothe Kathrin , Schmid Roland M. , Schneider Jochen , Spinner Christoph D.
Published: May 2020

Background

Mycobacterium fortuitum complex is a group of rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) associated with skin and soft-tissue infections after surgery or trauma. Treatment of NTM is challenging, due to resistance to multiple antimycobacterial agents. Bedaquiline is a diarylquinoline that inhibits mycobacterial ATP-synthase. The drug has recently been approved for the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and evidence of its in vitro efficacy against NTM, including Mycobacterium fortuitum complex, has been published.

Case presentation

A 20-year-old Caucasian woman with chronic skin and soft tissue infection in the lower leg following a traffic accident in Vietnam underwent a tedious journey of healthcare visits, hospital admissions, empiric antimicrobial treatments, surgical debridement and plastic reconstruction before definite diagnosis of Mycobacterium fortuitum complex-infection was established by culture from a tissue biopsy and targeted antimycobacterial therapy was administered. Histopathological examination revealed granulomatous purulent inflammation, which strongly supported the diagnosis. Genotypic identification was performed and broth microdilution for susceptibility testing showed macrolide resistance. Five weeks of induction treatment with intravenous amikacin, imipenem / cilastin, and oral levofloxacin was administered, followed by all-oral treatment with bedaquiline combined with levofloxacin for four months, which was well-tolerated and led to persistent healing with scars but without signs of residual infection.

Conclusions

Bedaquiline is a promising novel agent for NTM treatment, although clinical data are limited and trials evaluating efficacy, safety, and resistance of bedaquiline are required. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of successful in vivo use of bedaquiline for a skin and soft tissue infection caused by Mycobacterium fortuitum complex.
Identification of Kosakonia cowanii as a rare cause of acute cholecystitis: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Berinson Benjamin , Bellon Eugen , Christner Martin , Both Anna , Aepfelbacher Martin , Rohde Holger
Published: May 2020

Background

Kosakonia cowanii, formerly known as Enterobacter cowanii, is a Gram-negative bacillus belonging to the order Enterobacterales. The species is usually recognized as a plant pathogen and has only anecdotally been encountered as a human pathogen. Here we describe the rare case of a K. cowanii infection presenting as an acute cholecystitis and provide a review of available literature. Evident difficulties in species identification by biochemical profiling suggests that potentially, K. cowanii might represent an underestimated human pathogen.

Case presentation

A 61-year old immunocompromised man presented to the hospital with fever and pain in the upper right abdomen. Sonography revealed an inflamed gall bladder and several gall stones. A cholecystectomy proved diagnosis of an acute cholecystitis with a partial necrosis of the gall bladder. Surgical specimen grew pure cultures of Gram-negative rods unambiguously identified as K. cowanii by MALDI-TOF, 16S-rRNA analysis and whole genome sequencing.

Conclusions

Reporting cases of Kosakonia species can shed light on the prevalence and clinical importance of this rare cause of human infection. Our case is the first to describe an infection without prior traumatic inoculation of the pathogen from its usual habitat, a plant, to the patient. This raises the question of the route of infections as well as the pathogen’s ability to colonize the human gut.
Early diagnosis and appropriate respiratory support for Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia associated acute respiratory distress syndrome in young and adult patients: a case series from two centers
Authors: Ding Lin , Zhao Yu , Li Xuyan , Wang Rui , Li Ying , Tang Xiao , Sun Bing , He Hangyong
Published: May 2020

Background

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) is one of the most common causes of community acquired pneumonia (CAP). Establishing an early diagnosis of M. pneumoniae pneumonia in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) may have important therapeutic implications.

Methods

We describe diagnosis and management of M. pneumoniae pneumonia induced ARDS in a case series of adults and youth hospitalized with radiographically confirmed CAP prospectively enrolled in an observational cohort study in two university teaching hospitals, from November 2017 to October 2019.

Results

In all 10 patients, early and rapid diagnosis for severe M. pneumoniae pneumonia with ARDS was achieved with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) testing of samples from the lower respiratory tract or pleural effusion. The average PaO2/FiO2 of all patients was 180 mmHg. Of the 10 cases, 4 cases had moderate ARDS (100 mmHg ≤ PaO2/FiO2 < 200 mmHg) and 3 cases had severe ARDS (PaO2/FiO2 < 100 mmHg). High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) was applied in all patients, though only two patients were sufficiently supported with HFNC. Invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) was required in 5 patients. High resistance (median 15 L/cmH2O/s) and low compliance (median 38 ml/cmH2O) was observed in 4 cases. In these 4 cases, recruitment maneuvers (RM) were applied, with 1 patient demonstrating no response to RM. Prone positioning were applied in 4 cases. Two cases needed ECMO support with median support duration of 5.5 days. No patient in our case series received corticosteroid therapy. All patients were survived and were discharged from hospital.

Conclusions

Early and rapid diagnosis of severe M. pneumoniae pneumonia with ARDS can be achieved with PCR/mNGS tests in samples from the lower respiratory tract or pleural effusion. In our case series, half of M. pneumoniae pneumonia induced ARDS cases were adequately supported with HFNC or NIV, while half of cases required intubation. RM and prone position were effective in 30% of intubated cases, and 20% needed ECMO support. When early anti-mycoplasmal antibiotics were given together with sufficient respiratory support, the survival rate was high with no need for corticosteroid use.