bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A standardized framework to evaluate the quality of studies using TDABC in healthcare: The TDABC in Healthcare Consortium Consensus Statement
Authors: Etges Ana Paula Beck da Silva , Polanczyk Carisi Anne , Urman Richard D.
Published: June 2020

Background
This Consensus Statement introduces a standardized framework, in a checklist format, to support future development and report of TDABC studies in healthcare, and to encourage their reproducibility. Additionally, it establishes the first formal networking of TDABC researchers through the creation of the TDABC for Health Care Consortium.
Methods
A consensus group of researchers reviewed the most relevant TDABC studies available in Medline and Scopus databases to identify the initial elements of the checklist. Using a Delphi process, each element received a recommendation regarding where in the scientific article section it should be placed and whether the element was required or suggested. A questionnaire was circulated with expert researchers in the field to provide additional recommendations regarding the content of the checklist and the strength of recommendation for each included element.
Results
The TDABC standardized framework includes 32 elements, provides recommendations where in the scientific article to include each element, and the strength of each recommendation. All 32 elements were validated, with 21 elements classified as mandatory and 11 as suggested but not mandatory.
Conclusions
This is the first standardized framework to support the development and reporting of TDABC research in healthcare and to stablish a community of experts in TDABC methodology. We expect that it can contribute to scale strategies that would result in cost-savings outcomes and in value-oriented strategies that can be adopted in healthcare systems and institutions.
Factors associated with quality of life among joint and nuclear families using the World Health Organization's quality of life instrument (WHOQOL-BREF).
Authors: Lodhi Fahad Saqib , Rabbani Unaib , Khan Adeel Ahmed , Raza Owais , Naieni Kourosh Holakouie , Yaseri Mehdi , Farooq Umer , Montazeri Ali
Published: June 2020

Background
Family system has been found to affect the quality of life (QOL) among joint and nuclear family systems. In Pakistan, there is scarcity of literature about QOL among joint and nuclear family systems. We determined the factors associated with QOL scores in joint and nuclear family systems in Pakistani general population in District Abbottabad, Pakistan.
Methods
We conducted a population based cross sectional study in all 52 Union Councils (UCs) of District Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan from March 2015 to August 2015. Multistage cluster sampling technique was used to select 2063 participants from both nuclear and joint family houses. A validated Urdu version of WHO QOL-BREF was used to assess level of quality of life among participants. Univariate and multivariate analysis was done to find out the association of different socio demographic variables with QOL among both family systems. A multilevel linear regression using backward analysis allowing to obtain final model for each domain was done to find out the variables that affect QOL score among both family systems.
Results
A total of 2063 participants were included in this study (51.0% joint family, 49.0% nuclear family) with the response rate of 97.4%. In multiple linear regression analysis of each domain for joint and nuclear family systems, rural as compare to urban residence (p < 0.001), being female as compare to males (p < 0.001), increasing age as unit a decade (p < 0.001), having any disease as compare to absence of disease (p < 0.001) low socioeconomic status (SES) as compare to high SES (p < 0.001) were found out to be strong predictor of poorer QOL. Furthermore social capital (p < 0.001) had a positive effect on joint and nuclear family QOL scores.
Conclusion
Our study was the first of its kind which determined the factors of QOL scores in joint and nuclear families using validated WHO QOL-BREF in Pakistan. Male gender, urban residence, younger age, higher socio-economic status and social capital were positive predictors of QOL score while increasing age and presence of illness were associated with lower QOL scores among both family systems.
Modelling an unconventional closed-loop deep borehole heat exchanger (DBHE): Sensitivity Analysis on the Newberry Volcanic Setting
Authors: Doran Hannah Rose , Renaud Theo , Falcone Gioia , Pan Lehua , Verdin Patrick
Published: June 2020

Geothermal energy is a baseload resource that has the potential to contribute significantly to the transition to a low-carbon future. Alternative (unconventional) deep geothermal designs are thus needed to provide a secure and efficient energy supply. Current Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) are under technical review as a result of the associated low recovery factors and risk of induced seismicity in connection with reservoir stimulation operations, and Supercritical EGS (SEGS) concepts are still under early research and development. The Newberry and Icelandic Deep Drilling Projects (NDDP and IDDP) aid these developments to drill deeper into very hot temperature zones.

An in-depth sensitivity analysis was investigated considering a deep borehole closed-loop heat exchanger (DBHE) to overcome the current limitations of deep EGS. Using the DBHE, cold working fluid is pumped down in the outer annulus and rises to the surface via natural convection or is pumped up via an inner tubing. A T2Well/EOS1 model previously calibrated on an experimental DBHE in Hawaii was adapted to the current NWG 55-29 well at the Newberry volcano site in Central Oregon. A sensitivity analysis was carried out, including parameters such as: the working fluid mass flow rate, the casing and cement thermal properties and the wellbore radii dimensions. The results allow an assessment of key thermodynamics within the wellbore and provide an insight into how heat is lost/gained throughout the system. This analysis was performed under the assumption of sub-critical conditions. Requirements for further software development are briefly discussed, which would facilitate the modelling of unconventional geothermal wells in supercritical systems.
ECG-based Predictors of Re-infarction or Death on the Hospital Admission 12-Lead ECG among UA/NSTEMI Patients: A Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dzikowicz Dillon J , Mulligan Darcey H. , Carey Mary G.
Published: June 2020

Background The incidence of unstable angina/ non-ST elevation MI (UA/NSTEMI) continues to rise. The electrocardiogram (ECG) remains the first-line assessment of cardiac conduction and myocardial ischemia, and is performed within the first 10-minutes of hospital presentation. Despite recent advances in treatment, in-hospital death and re-infarction continues as a result of delayed interventions. Since the ECG is a rapid test to guide treatment decisions, it is crucial emergency providers understand the prognostic value of characteristics on the admission 12-lead ECG to decide treatments which may reduce the risk of re-infarction and death. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the significance of these ECG findings associated with in-hospital death and re-infarction. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis will be conducted to comprehensively assess the prognostic value of specific characteristics on the admission 12-lead ECG associated with re-infarction and death. This is the protocol for such review and meta-analysis. Electronic databases and specific cardiovascular journals will be searched using predefined search terms to identify relevant studies. Eligible studies will be peer-reviewed research articles with empirical findings on the risk re-infarction and death based on characteristics on the admission 12-lead ECG. The methodological quality of the included studies will be assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and GRADE. Citations will be managed using EndNote X9. A random effects meta-analysis will be conducted with the Meta-Essentials package and STATA. Discussion This study will be among the first to systematically evaluate and quantitatively assess the evidence available on the prognostic value of characteristics on the admission 12-lead ECG for the risk of re-infarction and death. This study will inform clinicians about the significance of characteristics on the admission 12-lead ECG so better treatment decisions can be made, as well as inform new research opportunities in the field of cardiovascular risk stratification. Registration This systematic review and meta-analysis is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; ID CRD42020158491).
Outcomes of 42 pregnancies in 14 women with cartilage-hair hypoplasia: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Holopainen Elina , Vakkilainen Svetlana , Mäkitie Outi
Published: June 2020

Background
Cartilage-hair hypoplasia (CHH) is a rare skeletal dysplasia characterized by disproportionate short stature, immunodeficiency, anemia and risk of malignancies. All these features can affect pregnancy and predispose to maternal and fetal complications. This study aimed to evaluate obstetric history and maternal and fetal outcomes in women with CHH.
Methods
Among 47 Finnish women with CHH, we identified 14 with pregnancy-related diagnoses in the National Hospital Discharge Registry and obtained detailed data on gynecologic and obstetric history with a questionnaire. Offspring birth length and weight were collected and compared with population-based normal values.
Results
There were altogether 42 pregnancies in 14 women (median height 124 cm, range 105–139). Twenty-six pregnancies (62%), including one twin pregnancy, led to a delivery. Miscarriages, induced abortions and ectopic pregnancies complicated 9, 5, and 2 pregnancies, respectively. Severe pregnancy-related complications were rare. All women with CHH delivered by cesarean section, mostly due to evident cephalo-pelvic disproportion, and in 25/26 cases at full-term. In the majority, the birth length (median 48 cm, range 45.5–50) and weight (3010 g, range 2100–3320) of the offspring in full-term singleton pregnancies was normal.
Conclusions
Despite CHH mothers’ significant short stature and other potential CHH-related effects on pregnancy outcome, most pregnancies lead to a term cesarean section delivery. Since fetal growth was generally unaffected, cephalo-pelvic disproportion was evident and elective cesarean section should be planned in term pregnancies.
Survival and diagnostic age of 175 Taiwanese patients with mucopolysaccharidoses (1985-2019)
Authors: Lin Hsiang-Yu , Lee Chung-Lin , Chang Chia-Ying , Chiu Pao Chin , Chien Yin-Hsiu , Niu Dau-Ming , Tsai Fuu-Jen , Hwu Wuh-Liang , Lin Shio Jean , Lin Ju-Li , Chao Mei-Chyn , Chang Tung-Ming , Tsai Wen-Hui , Wang Tzu-Jou , Chuang Chih-Kuang , Lin Shuan-Pei
Published: June 2020

BackgroundMucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs) are a group of inherited metabolic diseases, which are characterized by the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans, and eventually lead to the progressive damage of various tissues and organs.MethodsAn epidemiological study of MPS in Taiwan was performed using multiple sources. The survival and diagnostic age for different types of MPS between 1985 and 2019 were evaluated.ResultsBetween 1985 and 2019, there were 175 patients diagnosed with MPS disorders in the Taiwanese population, with a median diagnostic age of 3.9 years. There were 21 (12%), 78 (45%), 33 (19%), 32 (18%) and 11 (6%) patients diagnosed with MPS I, II, III, IV and VI, respectively, with median diagnostic ages of 1.5, 3.8, 4.7, 4.5 and 3.7 years, respectively. Diagnosis of MPS patients was significantly earlier in recent decades (p<0.01). Pilot newborn screening programs for MPS I, II, VI, IVA, and IIIB were progressively introduced in Taiwan from 2016, and 48% (16/33) of MPS patients diagnosed between 2016 and 2019 were diagnosed by one of these screening programs, with a median diagnostic age at 0.2 years. For patients born between 2016 and 2019, up to 94% (16/17) were diagnosed with MPS via the newborn screening programs. At the time of this study, 81 patients had passed away with a median age at death of 15.6 years. Age at diagnosis was positively correlated with life expectancy (p<0.01). Life expectancy also significantly increased between 1985 and 2019, however this increase was gradual (p<0.01).ConclusionsThe life expectancy of Taiwanese patients with MPS has improved in recent decades and patients are being diagnosed earlier. Because of the progressive nature of the disease, early diagnosis by newborn screening programs and timely implementation of early therapeutic interventions may lead to better clinical outcomes.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Corneas from Normal, Forme Fruste Keratoconus, and Clinical Keratoconus Patients using Morphological and Biomechanical Properties
Authors: Zhang Hui , Tian Lei , Guo Li-Li , Qin Xiao , Zhang Di , Li Lin , Zhang Haixia , Jie Ying
Published: June 2020

Background: At present, the diagnosis of keratoconus with Pentacam (typical morphological measurement device), Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA) and Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology (Corvis ST) (two main in vivo biomechanical measurement devices), is mainly for clinical keratoconus (CKC), and the analysis of diagnostic performance is only for the comparison of single output parameters, and the total number of parameters is not complete. Therefore, we intend to use the above three devices to more comprehensively evaluate the ability of the parameters reflecting the morphological and biomechanical properties of the cornea to distinguish keratoconus, especially contralateral normal eye of unilateral keratoconus, that is, the forme fruste keratoconus (FFKC), so as to to obtain further reference for early diagnosis of keratoconus.Methods: Normal eyes (n = 50), CKC eyes (n = 45), and FFKC eyes (n = 15) were analyzed using Pentacam, Corvis ST, and ORA. Stepwise logistic regression of all parameters was performed to obtain the optimal combination model capable of distinguishing CKC, FFKC from normal, named SLR1 and SLR2, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were applied to determine the predictive accuracy of the parameters and the two combination models, as described by the area under the curve (AUC). AUCs were compared using the DeLong method. Results: The SLR1 model included only the TBI output by Pentacam, while the SLR2 model included the morphological parameter F.Ele.Th, and two parameters from the Corvis ST, HC DfA, and SP-A1. The majority of the parameters had sufficient strength to differentiate the CKC from normal corneas. Even the seven separate parameters and the SLR1 model had a discrimination efficiency of 100%. The predictive accuracy of the parameters was moderate for eyes with FFKC, and the SLR2 model (0.965) presented an excellent AUC, followed by TBI, F.Ele.Th and BAD-D.Conclusion: The F.Ele.Th from Pentacam was the most sensitive morphological parameter for FFKC, and the combination of F.Ele.Th, HC DfA and SP-A1 made the diagnosis of FFKC more efficient. The CRF and CH output by ORA did not improve the combined diagnosis, despite the corneal combination of morphological and biomechanical properties that optimized the diagnosis of FFKC.
A Finite Element Analysis of Sacroiliac Joint Displacements and Ligament Strains in Response to Three Manipulations
Authors: Xu Zhun , Li Yikai , Zhang Shaoqun , Liao Liqing , Wu Kai , Feng Ziyu , Li Dan
Published: June 2020

Background Clinical studies have found that manipulations have a good clinical effect on sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain without specific causes. However, the specific mechanisms of manipulations are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of three common manipulations on the pressures and displacements of SIJ, and the strains of the surrounding ligaments.Methods A three-dimensional finite element model of the pelvis-femur was developed. The manipulation of hip and knee flexion (MHKF), the manipulation of oblique pulling (MOP), and the manipulation of lower limb hyperextension (MLLH) were simulated. The pressures and displacements of SIJs, and the strains of the surrounding ligaments were analyzed under the three manipulations.Results The MOP produced the greatest pressure on the left SIJ, at 6.6 MPa, while the MHKF could produce the lowest pressure on the right SIJ, at 1.5 MPa. The displacements of SIJs were all less than 1mm in the three manipulations. The three manipulations could cause different degrees of the strains of ligaments around the SIJs, and the MOP could produce the largest strain of ligaments.Conclusion The three manipulations all produced small displacements of SIJs, while they caused different degrees of ligament strains, which might be the reason for relieving the SIJ pain. The MOP may be a more effective manual therapy.
Adaptive Optics for Reduction of Thermal Blooming Effects by Phase Compensation
Authors: Wu Shuyun , Luo Xi , Li Xinyang
Published: June 2020

The use of an AO system for the reduction of thermal blooming effects by phase correction of a 1.064-µm laser was studied. The energy concentration of the beam spot in the far-field increased greatly when the adaptive optics system performed in a closed loop. The phase compensation of the AO system was effective for a Bradley–Hermann distortion number of less than 130. The experimental results were in good agreement with the simulation results. This study provides many physical explanations and important conclusions for using adaptive optics to reduce the thermal blooming effect.
The Effective Use of Machine Learning in WorldView-2 Image for the Recognition of Two Forest Species in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest
Authors: Crisigiovanni Enzo Luigi , Filho Afonso Figueiredo , Pesck Vagner Alex , Lima Vanderlei Aparecido de
Published: June 2020

Background: Tree species identification by satellite images facilitates the implementation of conservation and forest management measures. However, this recognition is complex in tropical forests, due to the high diversity of spectral responses of existing species, as well as the adjustment of efficient computer vision methods for the process. Method: In this work we tested the capacity of machine learning algorithms for attribute selection and data mining to recognize crowns of two forest species in the Mixed Rainforest, Araucaria angustifolia (Bertol.) Kuntze endangered native species and Hovenia dulcis Thunb. an aggressive invasive alien species. For this we used, a fused WordView-2 (2016) image with 0.5 m of spatial resolution. The images of the crowns of the two tree species were cut by photo interpretation, using the compositions 8NIR-2, 3G, 2B and 5R, 3G, 2B. Color and texture descriptors (PHOG and Edge Filter) were applied to the clippings of the images. A genetic algorithm was used to optimize the attribute selection. The species classification was performed by the classifiers: Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Random Forest (RF), both bio-inspired algorithms.Result: The species classification was performed with high accuracy, evidenced by the high hit rate reaching 95% for Cross-Validation. RF surpassed the ANN classification rates and still proved to be more stable and faster for training and executing the algorithm and later species classification. It was concluded that the WorldView-2 multispectral sensor has the potential to provide sufficient information for the recognition of H. dulcis and A. angustifolia species, contributing to conservation and sustainable maintenance in the Araucaria Forest.
Prediction of Health Risk Potential Using Fuzzy Rule Base System for Indoor Work Environmental Condition in Dyeing and Printing House
Authors: Jariwala Dharmendra , Christian Robin A. , Jariwala Namrata D.
Published: June 2020

The physical work environment in any industry is dynamic and unpredictable. It highly influencing to the health, comfort and well being of the occupants. Work environmental condition can be evaluated by measuring four basic comfort parameters, which include thermal comfort, acoustic comfort, visual comfort and air change inside the working area. These parameters are the major contributing factors to the health of workers. Usage of heat and water in the different processes of textile dyeing and printing industry make the work environment hot and humid. Due to high thermal stress a wide range of disease and complications has been observed from mild disorder to heatstroke. Also, the high level of noise and the poor lighting condition has been impacting on the stress, absenteeism, turnover, production and output quality in the industry. Improper ventilation in the working area will affect the dispersion and dilution of the pollutants generated due to the processes. The parameters considered for evaluating comfort levels include wet bulb globe temperature index, illumination, noise and air changes in this study. Fuzzy rule base system approach had been used to predict worker’s health risk associated due to the impact of the work environment condition. The modeling process has been carried out with the help of MATLAB (R2014a) fuzzy tool box. Triangular membership function had been used for the input parameters. Linguistic variables were finalized by the expert opinion. Total 144 fuzzy rules had been developed based on the linguistic variable. Output obtain is in the terms of crisp value [0,1] is divided into four linguistic term low, moderate, high and very high. The study reveals that work environment condition in the textile dyeing and printing mills at various sections of the industry fall in the category of a high and very high risk condition because of prevailing poor work environmental condition at various locations. Thus, the workers working in these sections having very high potential to get the diseases related to a hot and humid environment.
Clinical Characteristics and Poor Predictors of Anti-NXP2 Antibody-Associated Chinese JDM Children
Authors: Wang Xinning , ding Yuchuan , Zhou Zhixuan , Hou Jun , Xu Yingjie , Li Jianguo
Published: June 2020

Background. Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a rare and sometimes fatal disease in children. The subtype of anti-NXP2 antibody-associated JDM is the leading cause of death in JDM, but there are no reports about clinical characteristics and high risk factors of poor prognosis. For the first time, we introduced the clinical characteristics and poor predictors of anti-NXP2 antibody-associated juvenile dermatomyositis in Chinese children.Methods. Twenty-six patients with anti-NXP2 antibody-related JDM from 85 JDM patients diagnosed from January 2016 to November 2019 were involved. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors for refractory cases and death.Results. The ratio of male to female was 9:17. The median age of onset was 4.5 (1–13) years. Twenty-four cases (92.3%) had rash and muscle weakness. Treatments included glucocorticoids, immunosuppressive agents, biological agents (7 cases), plasma exchange, Janus kinase inhibitor (7 cases) and autologous stem cell transplant (1 case). Eleven cases (11/26, 42.3%) were refractory JDM associated with edema, skin ulcer, muscle strength < = grade 3, CD4/CD8 ratio < 1.4 and SF > 200ug/ml. Among 6 cases (6/26, 23.1%) with severe gastrointestinal involvement, 5 cases died and 1 case survived after ASCT. The risk factors for gastrointestinal involvement and death were edema, skin ulcer, severe muscle weakness (Dysphagia/Hoarseness/Lower voice), BMI < 15 and ANA positive.Conclusions. Anti-NXP2 antibody-positive JDM of Chinese children was characterized by rash and severe muscle weakness. Edema, skin ulcer and severe muscle weakness predicted refractory and poor prognosis. Decreased CD4/CD8 ratio and high SF related with refractory cases, and very low BMI and ANA (+) predicted high risk of gastrointestinal involvement and death.
A New Anabolic compound, LLP2A-Ale, Reserves Periodontal Bone Loss in Mice Through Augmentation of Bone Formation
Authors: Yao Wei , Jiang Min , Liu Lixian , Liu Ruiwu , lam Kit S , Lane nancy e
Published: June 2020

Aims. Currently, there are no effective medications that reverse periodontal disease (PD)-induced bone loss. The objective of this study was to test a new anabolic compound, LLP2A-Ale, or with the combination treatment of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC), in the treatment of bone loss secondary to PD. Martials and Methods. PD was induced in mice by placing a ligature around the second right molar. At one week after disease induction, the mice were treated with placebo, LLP2A-Ale, MSCs, or combination of LLP2A-Ale + MSCs, and euthanized at week 4. Results. We found that PD induced alveolar bone loss that was associated with reduced bone formation. LLP2A alone and in combination with MSCs sustained alveolar bone formation and reversed alveolar bone loss. Additionally, PD alone caused systemic inflammation and increased the circulating levels of G-CSF, IP-10, MIP-1a, and MIP2, which were suppressed by LLP2A-Ale +/- MSCs. LLP2A-Ale +/- MSCs increased bone formation at the peripheral skeletal site (distal femur), which was otherwise suppressed by PD. Conclusion. Our findings indicated that LLP2A-Ale treatment rescued alveolar bone loss caused by PD, primarily by increasing bone formation. LLP2A-Ale also attenuated the circulating levels of a series of inflammatory cytokines and reversed the PD-induced suppression of systemic bone formation.
Pre-Clinical Remote Undergraduate Medical Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey Study
Authors: Shahrvini BS Bita , Baxter  , Coffey Charles S. , MacDonald BA Bridget V. , Lander ScD Lina
Published: June 2020

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a sudden transition to remote learning in medical schools. We aimed to assess student perceptions of remote learning during the pre-clinical curricular training phase. Methods: A survey was distributed to first- and second-year medical students enrolled at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine in March 2020. Frequencies of responses to structured multiple-choice questions were compared regarding impacts of remote learning on quality of instruction and ability to participate, value of various remote learning resources, living environment, and preparedness for subsequent stages of training. Responses to open-ended questions about strengths and weaknesses of the remote curriculum and overall reflections were coded for thematic content.Results: Of 268 students enrolled, 104 responded (53.7% of first-year students and 23.9% of second-year students). Overall, students felt the quality of instruction and their ability to participate had been negatively affected. Most (64.1%) preferred the flexibility of learning material at their own pace. Only 25.5% of respondents still felt connected to the medical school or classmates. Most second-year students (56.7%) felt their preparation for the USMLE Step 1 exam was negatively affected and 43.3% felt unprepared to begin clerkships. In narrative responses, most appreciated the increased flexibility of remote learning but recognized that digital fatigue, decreased ability to participate, and lack of clinical skills and hands-on lab learning were notable deficits.Conclusions: Videocasted lectures uploaded in advance, electronic health record and telehealth training for students, and training for teaching faculty to increase technological fluency may be considered to optimize remote learning curricula.
Inflammatory olfactory neuropathy in two patients with Covid-19 
Authors: Kirschenbaum Daniel , Imbach Lukas L. , Ulrich Silvia , Rushing Elisabeth Jane , Keller Emanuela , Reimann Regina R. , Frauenknecht Katrin B.M. , Lichtblau Mona , Witt Martin , Hummel Thomas , Steiger Peter , Aguzzi Adriano , Frontzek Karl
Published: June 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged as a public health emergency recently, leading to fatal respiratory failure in a number of patients. The clinical manifestation of Covid-19 is manifold, cardio-respiratory symptoms and multiorgan failure being the most critical. Anosmia was reported to be an early symptom in a significant number of Covid-19 patients and is frequently the only symptom without underlying nasal congestion. Here we present neuropathological work-up of olfactory epithelium and associated olfactory nerves from two patients succumbing to Covid-19, one of which was anosmic. We show that SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with inflammation in the olfactory epithelium and leads to axonal damage in olfactory structures of the CNS - potentially explaining anosmic symptoms.
Screening Possible Drug Molecules for Covid-19. The Example of Vanadium (III/IV/V) Complex Molecules with Computational Chemistry and Molecular Docking.
Authors: Vlasiou Manos C. , Pafiti Kyriaki S.
Published: June 2020

After the Covid-19 pandemic and the aggressively infection control measures taken by the governments in the whole world, the need for a rapid pharmaceutical solution was more that necessary. The computer aided chemistry and molecular docking is a rapid tool to drug screening and investigation. Moreover, more metal based drugs are tested daily by research institutes for their antiviral activity. Here, we used theoretical studies on previously published biological active complex molecules of vanadium as an example of evaluating possible drug candidates before entering the laboratory. Our findings suggest that theoretical investigation should always precede on drug discovery.
Interactive Effects of Asparagine and Aspartate Homeostasis with Sex and Age for the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Authors: Luo Hui-Huan , Feng Xiao-Fei , Yang Xi-Lin , Fang Zhong-Ze
Published: June 2020

Background Asparagine and aspartate homeostasis link with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This study aimed to explore whether asparagine and aspartate metabolism interacted with sex and age to increase the risk of T2D.Methods From 27 May 2015 to 3 August 2016, we consecutively retrieved 1032 T2D patients and 1522 subjects without T2D from a tertiary care hospital in Liaoning, China. Restricted cubic spline nested in the logistic regression was used to draw odds ratio curves of plasma asparagine to aspartate ratio for T2D by sex and age. Cutoff point was select where curves went apart, indicating possible interaction. Addictive interactions of asparagine to aspartate ratio with sex or age and secondary interaction with copresence of unfavorable sex and age were further estimated using relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (S). Results Ratio of asparagine to aspartate >1.5 was associated with elevated risk of T2D (OR: 7.99, 95%CI: 5.50 to 11.6), which was enhanced by female gender to 13.6, (95%CI: 8.10-22.9) and by >50 years of age to 28.7 (14.6-56.3), with significant additive interactions. There was a significant secondary-interaction of copresence of female sex and > 50 years of age with high asparagine to aspartate ratio for increased T2D risk with the OR being further increased to 34.4 (20.5 - 57.5). Conclusions High asparagine to aspartate ratio was associated with markedly increased risk of T2D, which was further amplified by either female gender or >50 years of age, and especially both.
C3-Glomerulonephritis in New Zealand – A Case Series
Authors: Sutherland Luke J , Talreja Hari
Published: June 2020

Background: C3-glomerulonephritis can lead to progressive renal impairment from complement-mediated glomerular injury. Incidence and outcomes of C3-glomerulonephritis are not known in the New Zealand population. Methods: We reviewed all cases of C3-glomerulonephritis from the past 10 years at a tertiary referral centre in New Zealand. Descriptive information on baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes was collected. Results: 26 patients were included (16 men; mean±SD age 44±25 years) with a median follow-up of 30 months. Disease incidence was 1.3 cases per million individuals, of which 42% were Pacific Islanders. Most patients presented with renal impairment, with a median (IQR) creatinine at diagnosis of 210 (146-300) µmol/L, and nephrotic-range proteinuria with a protein/creatinine ratio of 551.5 (293-983) mg/mmol. 8 (31%) patients progressed to end stage renal disease and 2 (8%) had died. End stage renal disease occurred in 25% of patients treated with immunosuppression and in 50% of those not treated. Complete remission was seen in 25% of patients treated with some form of immunosuppression and in 17% of those not treated. Conclusions: Our results are consistent with previous descriptions of C3-glomerulonephritis. There was a suggestion of better clinical outcomes in patients treated with immunosuppression. There was a higher disease incidence in Pacific Islanders, which may indicate an underlying susceptibility to complement dysfunction in this population.
Social Media use and Sexual Behaviour of Undergraduate Students in a Nigerian University
Authors: Uzobo Endurance , Enoch Ruth Ovieakini
Published: June 2020

While studies have generally explored the implication of social media on education, crime, and communication, there is a paucity of studies exploring the influence of social media on sexual behaviour. Thus, this study aims to investigate the role of social media on sexual behaviour among 195 undergraduate students in the Niger Delta University, Bayelsa, Nigeria. This cross-sectional study was anchored on the uses and gratification theory (UGT). Data for this study were generated through the use of a structured questionnaire, while data analysis was done at the univariate, bivariate and multivariate levels. Findings shows that the average age of students was 22.72. Also, the study found out that the use of WhatsApp (OR = 15.349, p<0.05), Instagram (OR = 0.254, p<0.05), time spent on the social media (OR = 0.123, p<0.05) were significantly associated with high-risk sexual behaviour in model I. While relationship status (OR = 24.289, p<0.01) was associated with high-risk sexual behaviour in model II. The study, therefore, concluded that the use of social media influences the sexual behaviour of undergraduate. Hence, the study recommended sex education to help expose undergraduate students to the dangers involved in spending excessive time on social media.
Molecular Identification of Native Wolbachia Pipientis in Anopheles Minimus in a Low-Malaria Transmission Area of Umphang Valley Along the Thailand-Myanmar Border
Authors: Tongkrajang Nongnat , Ruenchit Pichet , Tananchai Chatchai , Chareonviriyaphap Theeraphap , Kulkeaw Kasem
Published: June 2020

BackgroundWolbachia, obligate intracellular bacteria, infect the majority of arthropods, including many mosquito species of medical importance. Some Wolbachia strains interfere with the development of Plasmodium parasites in female Anopheles, a major vector of malaria. The use of Wolbachia as a means to block malaria transmission is an emerging vector control strategy in highly endemic areas. Hence, identification of native Wolbachia strains in areas where malaria transmission is low may uncover a particular Wolbachia strain capable of Plasmodium interference. This study aims to identify native Wolbachia strains in female Anopheles spp. that are predominant in a low-malaria transmission area in mainland Southeast Asia.MethodsFollowing a two-year survey of malaria vectors in Umphang Valley of Tak Province, Thailand, DNA extracts of female An. minimus, An. peditaeniatus, An. maculatus, and An. dirus were subjected to amplification of the conserved region of the 16S rRNA-encoding gene. The DNA sequences of the amplicons were phylogenetically compared with those of known Wolbachia strains.ResultsAmong four Anopheles spp., amplification was detected in only the DNA samples from An. minimus. The DNA sequencing of amplicons revealed 100% similarity to Wolbachia pipientis, confirming the specificity of amplification. The phylogenetic trees indicate a close relationship with Wolbachia strains in subgroup B.ConclusionTo the best of our knowledge, the data presented herein provide the first molecular evidence of a Wolbachia strain in An. minimus, hereinafter named wAnmi, in a low-malaria transmission area in the Umphang Valley of western Thailand. Further biological characterization is required to examine its potential for malaria transmission control in the field.
Characterization of a Rhodanese Homologue from Haemonchus Contortus and its Immune-Modulatory Effects on Goat Immune Cells in Vitro
Authors: Wang Yujian , Ehsan Muhammad , Huang Jianmei , Aimulajiang Kalibixiati , Yan RuoFeng , Song XiaoKai , Xu LiXin , Li Xiangrui
Published: June 2020

Background: Suppression and modulation of the immune response of the host by nematode parasites have been reported widely. Rhodaneses or thiosulfate: cyanide sulfurtransferases are present in a wide range of organisms, such as archea, bacteria, fungi, plants and animals. Previously, it was reported that a rhodanese homology could bind by goat peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in vivo.Results: In the present study, we cloned and produced recombinant rhodanese protein originated from Haemonchus contortus (rHCRD), which was one of the parasitic nematodes of small ruminants. The effect of this protein on modulating the immunity of goat PBMC and monocyte was studied in the current work. The predominant localization of the natural HCRD protein was verified as the bowel wall and body surface of worms, according to the immunohistochemical tests. It was proved in this study that the serum produced by artificially infecting goats with H. contortus successfully recognized rHCRD which conjugated goat PBMCs. The rHCRD was co-incubated with goat PBMCs to observe the immunomodulatory effect on proliferation, apoptosis and secretion of cytokines exerted by HCRD. The results showed that the interaction of rHCRD suppressed proliferation of goat PBMCs stimulated by ConA but did not induce the apoptosis of goat PBMCs. After rHCRD exposure, the production of TNF-α and IFN-γ were significantly decreased, however, it significantly increased the secretion of IL-10 and TGF-β1 in goat PBMCs. Phagocytotic assay by FITC-dextran internalization showed that rHCRD inhibited the phagocytosis of goat monocytes. Moreover, rHCRD could down-regulate the expression of MHC-II on goat monocytes in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions: These discoveries proposed a possible target as immunomodulator, which was potentially beneficial to illuminate the interaction between parasites and hosts in the molecular level and hunt for innovative protein species as candidate targets of drug and vaccine.
Structure, Assembly, and Co-Occurrence of Archaeal Communities in Tree Rhizosphere of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Mengjun , Chai Liwei , Huang Muke , Jia Weiqian , Guo Jiabao , Huang Yi
Published: June 2020

Background: Archaea are considered to be an important component of complex microbiomes, which play vital roles in mediating soil biogeochemical processes. However, little is known about the ecology of archaeal communities in the rhizosphere, especially regarding their assembly and co-occurrence patterns. Results: Here, we used high-throughput Illumina sequencing to investigate the community variations of archaea between the rhizosphere and bulk soil collected from two native alpine tree species of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Thaumarchaeota was the dominant archaeal phylum in all soils tested, while archaeal community structures in the rhizosphere significantly differed from that in the bulk soil. Soil ammonium nitrogen, soil organic matter, available phosphorus and pH were significantly correlated with the archaeal community structure, and the deterministic processes dominated the assembly of archaeal communities across all soils. In addition, the network structures of the archaeal community in the rhizosphere were less complex than they were in the bulk soil, and an unclassified archaeal group (Unclassified_k_norank) was identified as the keystone species in all archaeal networks. Conclusions: Collectively, our findings suggest the structural variability, assembly processes, and co-occurrence patterns of archaeal communities in the rhizosphere of the the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, which further deepens our ecological understanding of the archaeal microbiome.
Genetic Variation Analysis and Treatment Strategy of 20 Patients with Dystrophin Gene Mutations
Authors: Liu Yedan , Chen Jun , Hou Mei , Zhang Yanhui , Guo Ya , Liu Peipei , Li Fei , Yang Chengqing , Song Jie , Wei Wei , Chen Zongbo
Published: June 2020

Background. Dystrophin (DMD) gene mutations canaffect muscular dystrophin isoform expression and result in progressive muscular dystrophy including Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies (DMD and BMD). To establish the correlation between phenotype and genotype and exemplify the current and future treatment for muscular dystrophy disorders, we investigated 20 patients suffering from a dystrophinopathy andsummarized clinical manifestation and gene mutations of them. Case presentation.The clinical manifestations, physical examination, laboratory work, and gene mutation results were collected in 20 patients with DMD or BMD diagnosed by clinical phenotype and genetic sequencing from July 2015 to December 2019. Multiplex ligation probe amplification (MLPA) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) were used to detect mutations in the DMD gene, and detected mutations were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The clinical manifestation of patients was characterized by progressive symmetrical muscle degeneration, limb weakness, and pseudohypertrophy along with the elevated concentration of creatine kinase, alanine aminotransferase,and aspartate aminotransferase.We found 11 dystrophin gene deletions (55%) and 4 duplication mutations (20%) among the affected patients. However, we also found point mutations including 1 nonsense (20%), 3 frameshifts (60%), and 1 splice sites (20%) mutations in the rest 5 patients. Among the 15 cases of exon deletion or duplication mutations, 7 were inherited from the mother, 3 were de-novo, while the other 5 were not tested. Besides, all 5 point-mutation cases were inherited from the mother, among which 4 point mutations were identified for the first time and linked to the disease phenotype. Conclusions.We provided clinical portraits, genetic results, and the molecular effects of mutations in patients. Four novel point mutations were identified for the first time and associated with the development of DMD and BMD. Further, we expanded knowledge of the DMD variant spectrum and exemplified the emerging therapies in muscular dystrophy.
A Comprehensive Study on Li4si1-xtixo4 Ceramics for Advanced Tritium Breeders
Authors: Gong Yichao , Liu Lin , Qi Jianqi , Yang Mao , Li Junjie , Wang Hailiang , Guo Hao , Zhang Guojun , Lu Tiecheng
Published: June 2020

Hetero-elements doped lithium orthosilicate has been considered as advanced tritium breeders due to its superior performances. In this work, Li4Si1-xTixO4 ceramics were prepared by proprietary hydrothermal process and multistage sintering. The reaction mechanism of Li4Si1-xTixO4 was put forward. XRD and SEM analyses indicate that insertion of Ti leads to lattice expansion, enhances the sinterability and changes the fracture mode. The compressive tests show that the crush load increases almost four times by increasing x from 0 to 0.2. However, the thermal conductivity and ionic conductivity are the best when x=0.05 and x=0.1, respectively. Thermal cycling stability of Li4Si1-xTixO4 pebbles was further appraised through investigating the changes of microstructure and crush load. After undergoing thermal cycling, the Li4Si1-xTixO4 still show higher crush load compared with Li4SiO4, despite Ti segregation in some samples. The x=0.05 sample exhibits excellent thermal cycling stability. To be sure, Ti doping improves the overall performance of Li4SiO4.
Preparation and electrical conductivity of (Cu0.5Ag0.5)7SiS5I-based superionic ceramics
Authors: Studenyak Ihor , POGODIN Artem , SHENDER Iryna , BEREZNYUK Serhiy , FILEP Mykhailo , KOKHAN Oleksandr , KÚŠ Peter
Published: June 2020

The ceramics based on (Cu0.5Ag0.5)7SiS5I solid solution of superionic conductor with argyrodite structure were prepared by using the powders with different particles size. The structural studies of powders were performed by XRD technique, while the ceramic samples with different average size of the crystallites were investigated by microstructural analysis. The total electrical conductivity of ceramic samples was measured by impedance spectroscopy in the frequency range from 10 Hz to 2×106 Hz and temperature interval from 292 K to 383 K. The contributions of ionic and electronic components into the total electrical conductivity were separated as well as their temperature behavior was studied. The dependences of ionic and electronic conductivity and their activation energies on average size of the crystallites in (Cu0.5Ag0.5)7SiS5I-based ceramic samples were investigated.
Does built environment influence physical activity and body postures in homework journeys?
Authors: Debache Isaac , Sueur Cédric , Vallée Julie , Bergouignan Audrey , Chaix Basile
Published: June 2020

Understanding the effects of built environment on physical activity is important for promoting healthy lifestyles in cities. Yet, very few studies have used objective continuous location data and measures of physical activity while addressing biases to causal inference. In addition, the effect of the environment on body postures during trips, albeit of physiological importance, is rarely addressed. Using mixed models for compositional data on sensor-derived physical activity information, we estimated the effects of greenery, destination density, public transport time efficiency, and average area education among 692 home-work journeys made by 121 healthy adults (80 men, 41 women). Higher levels of greenery, public transport time efficiency, and average area education along the shortest network path between home and workplaces were found to reduce contemporaneous sedentary postures and increase physical activity. These relationships suggest that decision makers should consider greening cities and improving public transport efficiency as an effective way to reduce the prevalence of sedentary behaviors in our societies.
Thymosin β10 promotes tumor-associated macrophages M2 conversion and proliferation via the PI3K/Akt pathway in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zeng Jun , Yang Li , Zheng Yaxin
Published: June 2020

Background: Thymosin β10 (TMSB10) has been reported to play a protumorigenic role in a majority of solid cancers. However, the function of TMSB10 in immune microenvironment may contribute to the pathobiology of lung adenocarcinoma has not been previously explored.Method: TAMs-associated TMSB10 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) of 184 lung adenocarcinomas. Xenograft mice model was established to investigate the effect of TMSB10 shRNA on TAMs. The macrophages phenotype associated cytokines IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α were detected by ELISA. Furthermore, the target proteins were detected by immunoblot.Results: We found that high TAMs-associated TMSB10 expression was significantly correlated with the advanced TNM stage and T3/T4 tumor size. And high TAMs-associated TMSB10 expression was significantly correlated with poor overall and progression-free survival of lung adenocarcinoma, acted as an independent prognostic factor for lung adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, we investigated the biological functions of TMSB10 in macrophages in vivo and in vitro. TMSB10 knockdown dramatically reduced TAMs, THP-1 and RAW264.7 cell proliferation, and promoted macrophages conversion of M2 to M1, and TMSB10 knockdown reduced the levels of p-Akt (Sec473), p-mTOR (Sec2448) and p-p70S6K (Thr389) without effect on Akt, mTOR and p70S6K expression.Conclusions: These results demonstrate that TAMs-associated TMSB10 promotes tumor growth through increasing TAMs M2 conversion and proliferation via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, providing a promising tumor biomarker for predicting prognosis and a potential therapeutic target for lung adenocarcinoma.