bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible COVID-19 recurrence in an older patient: a case report
Authors: Garnier-Crussard Antoine , Haution Marine , Gueret-Du-Manoir Mathilde , Reynaud Quitterie , Freymond Nathalie , Bouscambert-Duchamp Maude , Conrad Anne , Falandry Claire
Published: June 2020

Background: Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic cause by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) threatens the world for few months. Few cases of prolonged positivity of viral tests and clinical recurrence of COVID-19 have been described. We report the case of a 78-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer who developed possible COVID-19 recurrence in a post-acute and rehabilitation unit. Case presentation: A 78-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer and hypertension developed COVID-19. After symptom improvement and RT-PCR negativation, she regained symptom (fever, fall) and lymphopenia on Day 26 and we note a turned positive RT-PCR even though she was tested positive for antibody against SARS-CoV-2. After the diagnosis of possible COVID-19 recurrence, she was transferred back to an acute “COVID-19” unit and she then quickly clinically recovered. Conclusions: This clinical case allows us to discuss the risk of recurrence and possible specific causes in older patients. Moreover, prolonged symptoms and lymphopenia could be associated to worse outcomes in older patients. Finally, at a collective level, even if traces of virus detected by RT-PCR were not necessarily correlated with the contagiousness, the importance of possible COVID-19 recurrence in the care pathway for older adults must be taken into account, since they are often surrounded by frail older people.
Assessing (in) equalities in contraceptives use and family planning demand satisfied with modern contraceptives in Kenya
Authors: Gichangi Peter , Agwanda Alfred , Thiongo Mary , Waithaka Michael , Tsui Amy , Radloff Scott , Temmerman Marleen , Zimmerman Linnea , Ahmed Saifuddin , Anglewicz Philip
Published: June 2020

Background: Family planning plays an important role in reducing high-risk and unwanted pregnancies and associated complications. Kenya has made progress increasing the use of modern contraceptives. We assessed inequalities in contraceptive use and family planning demand satisfied.Methods: We used data from seven rounds of Performance, Monitoring and Accountability 2020 cross-sectional surveys, 2014-2018. Women aged 15-49 years were interviewed after informed consent was obtained. Contraceptive prevalence and demand for family planning satisfied standard definitions were used. Data were stratified by type of contraception (long-acting/permanent, short-acting, or traditional); wealth, residence, education, age, and wealth. Data were analysed using Stata v14.Results: Modern contraceptive prevalence has increased from 58.7% in 2014 to 64.2% in 2018 among sexually active married women. Total demand for family planning satisfied (DFPS) has increased from 70.5% in 2014 to 79.0% in 2018. There was a significant increase in long acting/permanent methods from 27.1% in 2014 to 42.9% in 2018 and a decrease in short acting methods from 71.6% in 2014 to 54.0% in 2018. The odds of contraception use among older women was 1.48 times higher than among adolescents (aOR=1.48; 95% CI: 1.21, 1.81); among married women 0.74 times compared to the unmarried women (aOR 0.74; 95% CI: 0.63, 0.86). The odds of contraception use increased with increasing education (secondary or higher education: aOR 3.78; 95% CI: 2.90, 4.92) and wealth quintiles (highest wealth quintile: aOR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.65). There were significant differences in DFPS by modern methods: older women vs adolescents (aOR = 2.40; 95% CI: 1.96, 2.93); married vs unmarried women (aOR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.32, 1.78); secondary or higher education vs no education: aOR 2.39 (95% CI: 1.95, 2.94); and highest vs lowest wealth quintile: aOR = 1.53 (95% CI: 1.24, 1.89).Conclusion: Contraceptive use and specifically long-acting reversible contraceptives are on the rise in Kenya. However, persistent inequities need to be addressed if no women are going to be left behind to access and use family planning/contraceptives. Current achievements should be maintained while targeting women who are poor, uneducated/illiterate, young, and living in rural areas.
The carbapenem resistance gene blaOXA-23 is disseminated by a conjugative plasmid containing the novel transposon Tn6681 in Acinetobacter johnsonii M19
Authors: Zong Gongli , Zhong Chuanqing , Fu Jiafang , Zhang Yu , Zhang Peipei , Zhang Wenchi , Xu Yan , Cao Guangxiao , Zhang Rongzhen
Published: June 2020

Background
Carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter species have caused great difficulties in clinical therapy in the worldwide. Here we describe an Acinetobacter johnsonii M19 with a novel blaOXA−23 containing transposon Tn6681 on the conjugative plasmid pFM-M19 and the ability to transferand carbapenem resistance.
Methods
A. johnsonii M19 was isolated under selection with 8 mg/L meropenem from hospital sewage, and the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for the representative carbapenems imipenem, meropenem and ertapenem were determined. The genome of A. johnsonii M19 was sequenced by PacBio RS II and Illumina HiSeq 4000 platforms. A homologous model of OXA-23 was generated, and molecular docking models with imipenem, meropenem and ertapenem were constructed by Discovery Studio 2.0. Type IV secretion system and conjugation elements were identified by the Pathosystems Resource Integration Center (PATRIC) server and the oriTfinder. Mating experiments were performed to evaluate transfer of OXA-23 to Escherichia coli 25DN.
Results
MICs of A. johnsonii M19 for imipenem, meropenem and ertapenem were 128 mg/L, 48 mg/L and 24 mg/L, respectively. Genome sequencing identified plasmid pFM-M19, which harbours the carbapenem resistance gene blaOXA−23 within the novel transposon Tn6681. Molecular docking analysis indicated that the elongated hydrophobic tunnel of OXA-23 provides a hydrophobic environment and that Lys-216, Thr-217, Met-221 and Arg-259 were the conserved amino acids bound to imipenem, meropenem and ertapenem. Furthermore, pFM-M19 could transfer blaOXA−23 to E. coli 25DN by conjugation, resulting in carbapenem-resistant transconjugants.
Conclusions
Our investigation showed that A. johnsonii M19 is a source and disseminator of blaOXA−23 and carbapenem resistance. The ability to transfer blaOXA−23 to other species by the conjugative plasmid pFM-M19 raises the risk of spread of carbapenem resistance.
Broadly active zinc finger protein-guided transcriptional activation of HIV
Authors: Scott tristan , O'Meally Denis V , Grepo Nicole Anne , Soemardy Citradewi , lazar Daniel , Zheng Yue , Weinberg Marc , Planelles Vicente , Morris Kevin Vance
Published: June 2020

Background
Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) is a lentivirus that causes a persistent viral infection and results in the demise of immune regulatory cells. Clearance of HIV-1 infection by the immune system is inefficient, and integration of proviral DNA into the genome of host cells provides a means for evasion and long-term persistence. A therapeutic compound that specifically targets and sustainably activates a latent HIV provirus could be transformative and is an overarching goal for the “shock-and-kill” approach to a functional cure for HIV.
Results
Substantial progress has been made towards the development of recombinant proteins that can target specific genomic loci for gene activation, repression or inactivation by directed mutations. However, most of these modalities are too large, or too complex, for efficient therapeutic application. We describe here the development and testing of a novel recombinant zinc finger protein transactivator, ZFPb-362-VPR, which specifically and potently enhances proviral HIV transcription both in established latency models and across different viral clades. Additionally, ZFP-362-VPR activated HIV reporter gene expression in a well-established primary human CD4+ T-cell latency model and was specific in targeting the HIV LTR as determined from off-target transcriptome analyses.
Conclusions:
This study provides clear proof of concept for the application of a novel, and therapeutically relevant, protein transactivator to purge cellular reservoirs of HIV-1.
Regulatory B Cell Imbalance Correlates With TFH Expansion in Systemic Sclerosis.
Authors: mekinian arsene , Ricard Laure , Malard Florent , Riviere Sébastien , Laurent Charlotte , Fain Olivier , Mohty Mohamad , Gaugler Béatrice , Mekinian Arsène
Published: June 2020

Objective.Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis, microangiopathy and immune dysfunction. B cell abnormalities characterized by autoantibody production and polyclonal B cell activation play an important role in the pathogenesis of SSc. We previously identified an expansion of functional and activated circulating T follicular helper (cTfh) cells in SSc patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the frequency of regulatory B (Breg) cell subsets and the correlation with Tfh in SSc patients.Methods.Circulating Breg cells CD24hiCD38hi and CD27+CD24hilevels and cTfh cells CD4+CXCR5+PD1+were determined by cytometry in 50SSc patients and 32 healthy subjects.Results.The frequency of Breg cells CD24hiCD38hi and CD24hiCD27+ was significantly reduced in patients with SSc as compared to controls (p=0.02 and p<0.001, respectively). In contrast, when examining the CD21low B cell subset, the frequency was significantly increased in SSc patients compared to healthy controls, (p<0.001). There was no difference in Bregcell levels in patients with diffuse SSc and limited SSc. However, CD24hiCD27+Breg cell frequency was significantly decreased in SSc patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (p=0.014), but not in patients with interstitial lung disease (p=0.058).Furthermore, we observed a negative correlation between cTfh and CD24hiCD27+ Breg cell levels in SSc patients but not in healthy controls (p=0.02). Conclusions: These results suggest that Breg cell subsets may participate in the regulation of cTfh and disease severity. Decreased CD24hiCD27+ Breg cell frequencymay contribute to the development of SSc.
Minimally invasive esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis in a situs inversus totalis patient
Authors: Meng Yunchong , Zhang Zheng , Li Kuo , Huang Quanfu , Qiu Wenlin , Xiao Han , Liao Yongde
Published: June 2020

Background
Situs inversus totalis (SIT) is a rare congenital condition which is characterized by abnormal placement of the thoracic and abdominal organs. Laparoscopic and thoracoscopic esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis is technically difficult and has rarely been reported in SIT patients with esophageal cancer.
Case presentation:
We report a SIT patient whose condition is complicated by middle and lower esophageal cancer. This 55-year-old patient underwent total laparoscopic and thoracoscopic esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis. The overall operation time was 270 minutes. Estimated blood loss was 150 mL and the patient was discharged after 20 days.
Conclusions
Laparoscopic and thoracoscopic esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis is technically feasible and secure in SIT patients with esophageal cancer.
Cerebrospinal fluid levels of amyloid-beta oligomers in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus are elevated before shunt surgery but decrease afterward
Authors: Kawamura Kaito , Miyajima Masakazu , Nakajima Madoka , Kanai Mitsuyasu , Motoi Yumiko , Nojiri Shuko , Akiba Chihiro , Ogino Ikuko , Xu Hanbing , Kamohara Chihiro , Yamada Shinya , Karagiozov Kostadin , Arai Hajime
Published: June 2020

Background

The amyloid-beta (Aβ) oligomer has strong neurotoxicity and is associated with cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, its role in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is poorly understood. We hypothesised that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) stagnation leads to Aβ oligomer accumulation in patients with iNPH. We measured CSF Aβ oligomer levels before and after CSF shunting in patients with iNPH.
Methods

We evaluated two iNPH cohorts: an analysis cohort (cohort-1) with 52 patients and a validation cohort (cohort-2) with 13 patients. For comparison cohorts, we recruited 27 neurologically normal controls (NCs), 16 patients with AD, 15 patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), and 14 patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). We measured CSF Aβ oligomer levels and assessed participants’ neurological statuses. We then compared the iNPH cohorts’ pre-shunting measurements with the comparison groups’ measurements and compared cohort-1’s measurements recorded before and after CSF shunting.
Results

iNPH cohort-1 had higher CSF Aβ oligomer levels than the NC, PD, and PSP cohorts. This result was validated with data from iNPH cohort-2. CSF Aβ oligomer levels differentiated iNPH cohort-1 from the PD and PSP groups, with an area under receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.94. Aβ oligomer levels in iNPH cohort-1 decreased after CSF shunting. However, there was no correlation between Aβ oligomer levels and cognitive functions in iNPH cohort-1.
Conclusion

The Aβ oligomer accumulates in patients with iNPH patients but can be eliminated with CSF shunting, suggesting that CSF stagnation causes Aβ oligomer accumulation in iNPH.
The role of STEAP1 in the biological behavior of gastric cancer
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Hou Wen-bin , Zhang Chao , Zhang Dong-dong , An Wen , Pan Si-wei , Wu Wan-di , Chen Qing-chuan , Xu Huimian
Published: June 2020

Background: Six-transmembrane epithelial antigen 1 (STEAP1) is associated with the occurrence and development of cancer. This study aimed to clarify the role of STEAP1 in gastric cancer tumor growth and metastasis, as well as its molecular mechanism of action.Methods: Statistical methods were used for clinical data analysis. Protein expression was detected using immunohistochemistry. The mRNA and protein expression in the cell cultures were detected using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. Overexpression and silencing models were constructed using plasmid and lentivirus transfection. To detect cell proliferation in vitro, Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometry, and colony formation assays were used; transwell and wound healing assays were used to detect cell migration and invasion; RNA sequencing was used for identifying differentially expressed genes; ELISA assay was used to detect the secretory proteins in cells. For in vivo experiments, nude BALB/c mice were used for detecting subcutaneous tumorigenesis and intraperitoneal implantation.Results: STEAP1 was overexpressed in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines. Single factor and Cox analyses showed that STEAP1 gene expression level correlated with poor prognosis. Upregulation of STEAP1 increased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, which decreased after STEAP1 was knocked down. These changes were achieved via the activation of the AKT/FoxO1 pathway and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT). The RNA sequencing results indicated that STEAP1 was closely related to inflammatory reactions. STEAP1 can regulate the inflammation-related molecules, IL-1β and IL-6, via the NF-kB and ERK/c-Jun signaling pathways. The in vivo animal experiments showed that STEAP1 knock down, resulted in a decrease in the subcutaneous tumor and peritoneal tumor formation.Conclusion: STEAP1 was overexpressed in gastric cancer and closely associated with OS. STEAP1 can regulate the cell cycle via the Akt/FoxO1 pathway to influence cell proliferation. STEAP1 may affect cell migration and invasion via EMT action. In addition, STEAP1 may mediate the inflammatory response by regulating IL1β and IL6 via the NF-kB and the ERK/c-Jun signaling pathways.
Screening and identification of key microenvironment-related genes in non-functioning pituitary adenoma
Authors: Guo Jing , Wu Jiangping , Fang Qiuyue , Liu Yulou , Li Chuzhong , Zhang Yazhuo
Published: June 2020

Background
Non-functioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA) is a very common type of intracranial tumor, some of which perform locally invasive and high recurrence rate. The tumor microenvironment (TME) shows a high correlation with tumor pathogenesis and prognosis. This study aimed to identify microenvironment-related genes in NFPAs and assess the prognosis value of them.
Methods
73 NFPAs tumor samples were collected from Beijing Tiantan Hospital and obtained transcriptional expression profile by microarray analysis. The immune and stromal scores of each sample were calculated by the ESTIMATE algorithm, and the patients were divided into a high and low immune/stromal scores group. Intersection differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were then obtained to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Potential functions and pathways of intersection DEGs were then analyzed by GO (gene ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes). Finally, the prognosis value of these genes was evaluated.
Results
The Kaplan-Meier curve indicated that the group of high immune scores were significantly related with poor recurrence-free survival. Then, we identified 497 intersection DEGs (478 over-expressed and 19 under-expressed genes) based on high- vs. low immune/stromal scores groups. Function enrichment analyses of 497 DEGs and hub genes from PPI network showed these genes mainly related with the immune/inflammatory response, T cell activation, and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase-protein kinaseB (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway. Among the IDEGs, 23 genes were further verified significantly expressed between invasive group and non-invasive group and 5 genes were highly associated with prognosis of NFPAs.
Conclusion
We screened out a series of critical genes associated with the tumor microenvironment in NFPAs. These genes may play a fundamental role in the development and prognosis of NFPA and may develop new therapeutic targets.
A microcosmic syndrome differentiation model for metabolic syndrome with multi-label learning
Authors: Xia Shujie , Zhang Jia , Du Guodong , Li Shaozi , Yan Zhaoyang , Xin Jiliang , Zhu Long , Gao Bizhen , Li CanDong
Published: June 2020

Background: Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is a complex multi-system disease. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is satisfactory in preventing and treating MS. Syndrome differentiation is the basis of TCM treatment, which is composed of location and/or nature syndrome elements. Many studies have found TCM syndromes are correlated with biological indicators. However, there are various data that mainly come from point-to-point studies, which can’t fully summarize the many to many relationship of TCM syndromes and biological indicators. Thus, it is also hard to deal with the problem that several types of syndromes may possibly happen to a patient at once in the real world. The purpose of this study is to find out the potential relationship between microcosmic index and syndrome elements from a holistic view by means of multi-label learning (MLL) technique, and to provide a multi-label model for TCM syndrome differentiation. Methods: The standardization scale on TCM four diagnostic information for MS is designed, which is used to obtain the results of TCM diagnosis. The model of microcosmic syndrome differentiation is constructed based on 39 physicochemical indexes, such as BMI, abdominal circumference, blood pressure，platelet，fasting blood sugar, insulin, blood lipid，by MLL techniques, called ML-kNN. First, the multi-label learning method is compared with three commonly used single learning algorithms. Then, the comparison of results of ML-kNN between physicochemical indexes and TCM information is also made. Next. the influence of parameter k of ML-kNN to the diagnostic model is investigated and then the best k-value is chosen for the TCM diagnosis. Results: A total of 698 cases are collected for the modeling of the microcosmic diagnosis of MS. The comprehensive performance of the ML-kNN model works obviously better than the others, whose average precision of diagnosis reach 71.4%. The results of ML-kNN based on microcosmic indexes are close to the results based on TCM information. The k value has less influence on the prediction results of ML- kNN. Conclusions: The MLL techniques facilitate building microcosmic syndrome differentiation model in MS and the experiments show this is a practical approach to solve the problem of labeling multiple syndromes simultaneously. Besides, it is also suggested that there is many to many relationships between TCM syndrome elements and physicochemical indexes, which will be conducive to the future objective and comprehensive study of syndrome differentiation in MS.
The Alternations of Endocannabinoid System and its Therapeutic Potential in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Zou Mingyang , Liu Yu , Xie Shu , Wang Luxi , Li Dexin , Li Ling , Xia Wei , Sun Caihong , Wu Lijie
Published: June 2020

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of developmental disabilities whose etiology remains elusive. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system modulated neurotransmission and neuronal plasticity. Evidence points to the involvement of this neuromodulatory system in the pathophysiology of ASD. Herein we investigated if there was disruption of eCB system in ASD and if pharmacological modulators of eCB system might have a therapeutic potential. Methods: We examined three major components of eCB system, namely, endogenous cannabinoids, their receptors and associated enzymes, in ASD children as well as in VPA-induced ASD animal model. Meanwhile we specially increased 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) by administering JZL184, a selective inhibitor of monoacylglycerol lipase, the hydrolytic enzyme for 2-AG, and to examine ASD-like behaviors in VPA-induced rats. Results: Autistic children and VPA-induced rats exhibited the reduced eCBs content, elevated degrading enzymes, and up-regulation of CBRs. We found that repetitive and stereotypical behaviors, hyperactivity, sociability, social preference, and cognitive functioning were improved after acute and chronic JZL184 treatment. The major efficacy of JZL184 was observed at the dose of 3mg/kg for both affecting eCB system and ASD-like behaviors. Conclusions: There were a lower eCB signaling in autistic children and ASD animal model, and boosting 2-AG could ameliorate ASD-like phenotypes in animals. Collectively, the results suggest a novel approach to ASD treatment.
Predicting Pathological Complete Response (Pcr) After Stereotactic Ablative Radiation Therapy (Sabr) of Lung Cancer Using Quantitative Dynamic [18f]fdg Pet and Ct Perfusion: A Prospective Exploratory Clinical Study
Authors: Yang Dae-Myoung , Palma David A. , Kwan Keith , Louie Alexander V. , Malthaner Richard , Fortin Dalilah , Rodrigues George B. , Yaremko Brian P. , Laba Joanna , Gaede Stewart , Warner Andrew , Inculet Richard , Lee Ting-Yim
Published: June 2020

Background:Stereotactic ablative radiation therapy (SABR) is effective in treating inoperable stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but imaging assessment of response after SABR is difficult. This prospective study aimed to develop a predictive model fortrue pathologic complete response (pCR) to SABR using imaging-based biomarkers from dynamic [18F]FDG-PET and CT Perfusion (CTP).Methods:Twenty-six patients with early-stage NSCLC treated with SABR followed by surgical resection were included, as a pre-specified secondary analysis of a larger study. Dynamic [18F]FDG-PET provided maximum and mean standardized uptake value (SUV) and kinetic parameters estimated using a previously developed flow-modified two-tissue compartment model while CTP measured blood flow, blood volume and vessel permeability surface product. Using recursive partitioning analysis (RPA), the imaging-based biomarkers for predicting pCRwere assessedand compared to current RECIST (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours version 1.1) and PERCIST (PET Response Criteria in Solid Tumours version 1.0) criteria.Results: RPA identified threepatient groups based on tumour blood volume before SABR (BVpre-SABR) and change in SUV­max (ΔSUVmax).The highest true pCR rate of 92%was observed in the group withBVpre-SABR< 9.3 mL/100g and ΔSUVmax< -48.9% after SABR while the worst was observed in the group with BVpre-SABR ≥ 9.3 (0%). A logistic regression model based on RPA risk groupsshowedexcellentpCRprediction(Concordance: 0.92; P=0.03). RECIST and PERCIST showed poor pCRprediction (Concordance: 0.54 and 0.58, respectively).Conclusions: In this study, we developed a predictive model based on dynamic [18F]FDG-PET and CT Perfusion imaging that was significantly better than RECIST and PERCIST criteria to predict pCR of NSCLC to SABR. This model warrants validation with larger sample size studies.Trial registration:MISSILE-NSCLC, NCT02136355 (ClinicalTrials.gov). Registered May 8, 2014, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02136355
Longitudinal Changes in Sports Activity From Pre-diagnosis to First Five Years Post-diagnosis: a Prospective Chinese Breast Cancer Cohort Study
Authors: Lei Yuanyuan , Ho Suzanne C. , Kwok Carol , Cheng Ashley , Cheung Ka Li , Lee Roselle , Yeo Winnie
Published: June 2020

Background: To compare change in level of physical activitybetween pre-and post- diagnosis of breast cancer in Chinese women.Methods:Based on an on-going prospective study consisting of 1462 Chinese women with early-stage breast cancer, a validated modified Chinese Baecke questionnaire was used to measure physical activity at baseline (12 months before cancer diagnosis), 18-, 36- and 60-months after diagnosis (over the previous 12 months before each interview). Results:The overall physical activity level at post-diagnosis was 5.8 MET-hours/week, which was significantly higher than that at pre-diagnosis at a median level of 0.6 MET-hours/week (P <0.001).The median levels of physical activity at 18-, 36- and 60-months follow-up were5.3, 4.4 and 3.9 MET-hours/week, respectively. There was no significant difference between any two of the three follow-ups at post-diagnosis. The proportions of participant who met WCRF/AICR recommendation before and after cancer diagnosis were both low, being 20.7% and 35.1%, respectively.Compared to pre-diagnosis, most of the patients improved or had no change on level of physical activity at post-diagnosis, with the respective proportion being 48.2% and 43.8%. Conclusions:Adherence to current lifestyle recommendation for cancer survivors, Chinese women with breast cancer significantly increasedlevel of physical activity level after cancer diagnosis, and such improvement was sustained to five years post-diagnosis. The proportion of patients who met the exercise recommendation for cancer survivors was still low. Encouraging patients on the importance of durable high level of physical activity in breast cancer survivorship is warranted.
Ethnobotanical Knowledge on Non-conventional Food and Medicinal Plants in Rio Cajari Extractivist Reserve, Amazon, Brazil
Authors: Filho Galdino Xavier de Paula , Ribeiro Adivair Freitas , Moraes Alcidete Flexa , Penha Willis Freitas , Borges Wardsson Lustrino , Santos Ricardo Henrique Silva
Published: June 2020

Background:Information on the knowledge, management and ways of using food and medicinal plants by traditional populations, family farmers and Brazilian native population in the Amazon is essential to guarantee the sovereignty of these groups. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diversity, knowledge and ways of using non-conventional food and medicinal plants in traditional communities in a conservation unit in the Brazilian Amazon.Methods:This study was conducted using semi-structured interviews applied to local respondents. Fifty-six residents were interviewed in 26 communities. The Indices of Use Value (UVI) and relative frequency of species citation (Fr) were evaluated; also, their diversity and equitability using the Shannon- Wiener (H’) Pielou (J’) indices, respectively. The species were listed according to their family, scientific name, popular names, categories of use, propagation environment, growth habit, medicinal indications, domestication status, production cycle and herbarium registration.Results:A total of 269 species of both non-conventional food and medicinal plants were identified, distributed in 84 botanical families, 198 genera, in addition to 13 unidentified species. The Arecaceae and Lamiaceae families had the highest species richness (11 and 7, respectively). Eryngium foetidum L. (Apiaceae) and Ipomoea potatoes L. (Convolvulaceae) presented the highest relative citation frequencies (19.7 and 19.3, respectively) and the highest index of use value of the species (0.94 and 0.92, respectively). The Shannon-Wiener (H’) and Pielou (J’) diversity indices were considered high (5.02 and 0.9, respectively) when compared to other ethnobotanical works carried out in Brazil and in the Amazon.Conclusions:A wide relationship of use was observed between the species under study and the population of this conservation area. In the environment in which these families are found, of geographical isolation and distance from urban centers, these species become, in many circumstances, the only food and medicinal resources, therefore, being fundamental to the sovereignty of these families.
The effectiveness of implementation strategies for promoting evidence informed interventions in allied healthcare: A Systematic Review
Authors: Goorts Kaat , Dizon Janine , Milanese Steve
Published: June 2020

Background- Evidence based practice in health care has become increasingly popular over the last decades. Many guidelines have been developed to improve evidence informed decision making in health care organisations, however it is often overlooked that the actual implementation strategies for these guidelines are as important as the guidelines themselves. The effectiveness of these strategies is rarely ever tested specifically for the allied health therapy group.Objectives - To explore the evidence for implementation strategies within allied health. This review sought to explore the effectiveness of implementation strategies for promoting evidence informed interventions in allied healthcare.Data sources- Cochrane, Medline, Embase and Scopus were searched from 2000 onwards.Study eligibility : Level I and II studies were included if an evidence informed implementation strategy was tested in allied health personnel.Study appraisal and synthesis methods: The SIGN method was used to evaluate risk of bias. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) model was applied to evaluate the grade for recommendation.Results- A total of 490 unique articles were identified, with 6 primary studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Three different implementation strategies and three multi-faceted components strategies were described. We found moderate evidence for educational meetings, local opinion leaders and patient mediated interventions. We found stronger evidence for multi-faceted components strategies.Conclusion- Few studies describe the effectiveness of implementation strategies for allied healthcare, but evidence was found for multi-faceted components for implementing research in an allied health therapy group population.
Trading strategy using share buybacks: evidence from India
Authors: Pandey Asheesh , Bhama Vandana , Kumar Mohapatra Amiya
Published: June 2020

The efficient market hypothesis states that in the efficient markets, participants cannot make extra-normal returns by exploiting any publicly available information. However, traders are constantly looking to exploit publicly available information to generate abnormal returns for themselves and their clients. One such event is share buyback announcement, which traders can utilize to create profitable trading strategies. The authors undertake the present study to examine if share buyback announcements provide profitable trading strategies to traders. Event study methodology has been adopted to analyze buyback announcements by Indian companies from January 2012 to December 2018. Forty-one (41) day window period comprising of 20 days pre-event, an announcement day, and 20 days post-event period is created to analyze the risk-adjusted average abnormal returns. The empirical findings suggest that there are negligible trading opportunities available for investors post announcements. However, significant risk-adjusted returns are found in the pre-event window, indicating that if investors can predict buyback announcements, they may earn extra-normal returns. The study confirms that Indian stock markets are in the semi-strong form of efficiency. The study also provides a profitable trading strategy for investors in the pre-event window. Finally, it also draws the regulators’ attention to see if insider trading could be the reason for abnormal returns in the pre-event window. The authors conclude the results by confirming that Indian markets are semi-strong in market efficiency and by indicating regulatory interventions to control insider trading.
AcknowledgementThe infrastructural support provided by FORE School of Management, New Delhi in completing this paper is gratefully acknowledged.
Transition period and subclinical ketosis in dairy cattle: association with milk production, metabolic and reproductive disorders and economic aspects
Authors: DENİZ ABDÜLKERİM , AKSOY KEMAL , METİN MERT
Published: June 2020

Many dairy cows experience a high incidence of health problems during the transition period (TP). The TP is an intermediate stage of various digestive, metabolic and reproductive functions which determine the general health status at the time of calving and during the first weeks postpartum. Negative energy balance due to increased energy demand at parturition and significantly reduced dry matter intake relative to demand is an important determinant. Consequently, substantial lipid mobilization from adipose tissue, increased oxidative stress and impaired immunity are associated with higher incidences of periparturient health problems including ketosis or subclinical ketosis (SCK), which have tremendous economic impact on dairy productivity. SCK is defined as the presence of increased blood ketone bodies (BHBA: betahydroxybutyric acid, acetone, acetoacetic acid) without clinical ketosis signs. Varying blood and milk cut-off values have been reported for BHBA concentrations defining SCK, but the most commonly accepted values are ≥ 1.2 mmol/L and ≥ 200 μmol/L respectively. This underestimated disease can impact dairy cow productivity through decreased milk production in the order of roughly 300 kg/lactation and increases the risk of metabolic and reproductive diseases such as displaced abomasum, retained placenta, metritis, mastitis, prolong oestrus interval and reduces conception rates. SCK also referred to as ‘profit robber or killer’ can cause productivity and economic losses of between $200-290 per dairy cow annually. Options for the control and prevention of SCK include controlled-release monensin capsules, and the injectable combination butaphosphan and cyanocobalamin and oral propylene glycol. SCK is easy to detect in early lactation using cow-side validated BHBA analysers with high specificity and sensitivity.
Effects of Macleaya cordata extract supplementation in milk on growth performance, some biochemical parameters and a number of selected bacterial groups of the recto-anal microbiota of calves
Authors: TOPRAK NESE NURAY
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of milk Macleaya cordata extract supplementation on the weight gain, feed intake, serum total protein (TP), albumin, globulin, IgG, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), triglyceride (TG), beta-hydroxy butyric acid (BHBA) levels, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and total aerobic, lactobacillus and coliform bacterial counts of recto-anal swabs in Simmental calves. The feeding study was carried out using 20 (n = 10) 4-day-old Simmental calves (average birth weight 45.55 ± 1.53 kg) from December 2017 to May, 2018. The experimental treatments comprised milk without any additive (control) and milk with 1 g M. cordata extract added per head per day. The calves were fed with only colostrum until 4 days of age and then with 5 liters per day of whole milk until the end of 65 days. At the end of the study, a significant difference in body weights and feed efficiency between the groups was not observed. During the 4th-6th weeks of the trial, M. cordata extract supplementation in milk decreased the feed intake of the calves. The serum TP, albumin, IgG, BHBA, TG, BUN, ALP and ALT levels were also found to be not statistically different between the treatment groups. At the end of the experiment the serum albumin and BHBA levels were increased, whereas the BUN levels were decreased. There was a significant effect of the group × sex interaction on the serum AST levels. The total aerobic, total coliforms, and lactobacillus bacterial counts of the recto-anal swabs were not different between the experimental groups. In conclusion, the present data demonstrated that supplementation of pre-weaning calves’ milk with M. cordata at 1 g per day did not improve growth performance but changed their metabolic status.
A New Linear Printed Vivaldi Antenna Array with Low Side Lobe Level and High Gain for the Band 3.5 GHz
Authors: Truong Luong Xuan , Giang Truong Vu Bang , Tuan Tran Minh
Published: June 2020

This paper proposes a new design of low sidelobe level (SLL) and high gain linear printed Vivaldi antenna array. The array composes of two parts, which are a linear Vivaldi antenna array and a back reflector. The array consists of 10 single Vivaldi antennas and a series-fed network, those are based on Roger RO4003C substrate (ε = 3.55) with the dimension of 140 x 450 x 1.524 mm3. A new Bat algorithm with the amplitude-only control technique has been applied to optimize the output coefficients of the series-fed network for gaining a low SLL. The simulation results indicate that the proposed antenna provides a low SLL of -29.2 dB in E-plane with a high gain of 16.5 dBi at the frequency of 3500 MHz. A prototype of the proposed antenna array has been fabricated. The measured data has a good agreement with the simulated data.
Rainwater harvesting and primary uses among rural communities in Ghana
Authors: Owusu Seth , Asante Rachel
Published: June 2020

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has been practised over many decades for various purposes, including domestic use. The practice contributes largely to sustainable development in terms of providing ‘free’ water to many people. This study assessed the primary uses and benefits of rainwater to rural residents by conducting a questionnaire survey of 48 households actively practising RWH. Samples of the rainwater were also tested in the laboratory to examine the quality and potential health risks. The results show that rainwater was used for potable and non-potable purposes by the locals particularly in the rainy season. Bathing accounted for the most use (53%), while the potable use was just 7%. The majority of users (73%) reported a positive impact of the practice on their lives, and the reliability of rainwater was highly ranked. The physicochemical properties of rainwater were good, but the study highlights the need for better management of the technology to ensure optimal quality. Overall, the findings provide substantial evidence on the benefits of harvesting rainwater and recommend greater use of rainwater, especially in areas with no or limited access to a public water supply.
PDA-cross-linked beta-cyclodextrin: a novel adsorbent for the removal of BPA and cationic dyes
Authors: Wang Jianyu , Cheng Guang , Lu Jian , Chen Huafeng , Zhou Yanbo
Published: June 2020

In this study, 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropene) diphthalic acid (PDA)-CD polymers containing β-cyclodextrin (CD) were synthesized for the adsorption of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and dyes. It features great adsorption of bisphenol A (BPA), methylene blue (MB) and neutral red (NR). The maximum adsorption capacities of MB, NR and BPA can reach 113.06, 106.8 and 51.74 mg/g, respectively. The tandem adsorption results revealed that adsorptions of dyes and BPA onto PDA-CD polymer were two independent processes: non-polar BPA entrapment by cyclodextrin cavities while dyes were captured by the carboxyl groups and π-π stacking interactions. The adsorption processes performed well in a wide range of pH (4.0–10.0) and were not affected by fulvic acid (FA) and inorganic ions.
The effects of offshore petroleum exploitation on microbial community and antibiotic resistome of adjacent marine sediments
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhou Jiti
Published: June 2020

The exploitation of petroleum in offshore areas is becoming more prosperous due to the increasing human demand for oil. However, the effects of offshore petroleum exploitation on the microbial community in the surrounding environment are still not adequately understood. In the present study, variations in the composition, function, and antibiotic resistance of the microbial community in marine sediments adjacent to an offshore petroleum exploitation platform were analyzed by a metagenomics-based method. Significant shifts in the microbial community composition were observed in sediments impacted by offshore petroleum exploitation. Nitrosopumilales was enriched in marine sediments with the activities of offshore petroleum exploitation compared to the control sediments. The abundances of function genes involved in carbon, butanoate, methane, and fatty acid metabolism in sediment microbial communities also increased due to the offshore petroleum exploitation. Offshore petroleum exploitation resulted in the propagation of some antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), including a multidrug transporter, smeE, and arnA, in marine sediments via horizontal gene transfer mediated by class I integrons. However, the total abundance and diversity of ARGs in marine sediments were not significantly affected by offshore petroleum exploitation. This study is the first attempt to analyze the impact of offshore petroleum exploitation on the spread of antibiotic resistance.
Enhanced removal of hexavalent chromium by different acid-modified biochar derived from corn straw: behavior and mechanism
Authors: Xu Yonggang , Bai Tianxia , Yan Yubo , Zhao Yunfeng , Yuan Ling , Pan Peng , Jiang Zhen
Published: June 2020

It is of great significance to remove Cr(VI) from water as a result of its high toxicity. Biochar from corn straw was modified by different acids (HNO3, H2SO4 and H3PO4) to remove Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. To estimate the removal mechanisms of Cr(VI) by the acid-modified biochars, batch experiments were performed in the light of contact time, Cr(VI) concentration, and pH, and the characteristics of acid-modified biochars before and after Cr(VI) adsorption were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The adsorption kinetics of Cr(VI) by acid-modified biochars were consistent with the pseudo-second-order model, and the adsorption isotherm obeyed the Freundlich model. Furthermore, the acid- modified biochars could supply more oxygen-containing functional groups (-COOH and -OH) as electron donor (e−) and hydrogen ion (H+) to enhance the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III), resulting in enhanced removal of Cr(VI). HNO3-modified biochar exhibited the highest removal efficiency of Cr(VI). In general, the acid modifition of biochar was an effective method to increase the removal of Cr(VI).
Comprehensive Review on Graphene Oxide for Use in Drug Delivery System
Authors: Daniyal Muhammad , Liu Bin , Wang Wei
Published: June 2020

Motivated by the accomplishment of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene and graphene
oxide (GO) has been widely investigated in the previous studies as an innovative medication
nanocarrier for the loading of a variety of therapeutics as well as anti-cancer medications, poor
dissolvable medications, antibiotics, antibodies, peptides, DNA, RNA and genes. Graphene provides
the ultra-high drug-loading efficiency due to the wide surface area. Graphene and graphene oxide
have been widely investigated for biomedical applications due to their exceptional qualities: twodimensional
planar structure, wide surface area, chemical and mechanical constancy, sublime
conductivity and excellent biocompatibility. Due to these unique qualities, GO applications provide
advanced drug transports frameworks and transports of a broad range of therapeutics. In this review,
we discussed the latest advances and improvements in the uses of graphene and GO for drug
transport and nanomedicine. Initially, we have described what is graphene and graphene oxide.
After that, we discussed the qualities of GO as a drug carrier, utilization of GO in drug transport
applications, targeted drug transport, transport of anticancer medications, chemical control medicine
releasee, co-transport of different medications, comparison of GO with CNTs, nano-graphene for
drug transport and at last, we have discussed the graphene toxicity. Finally, we draw a conclusion of
current expansion and the potential outlook for the future.
The Effect of Stachy sieboldii MIQ. Supplementation on Modulating Gut Microflora and Cytokine Expression in Mice
Authors: Na Eun , Moon Ki Hwan , Lim Sun Young
Published: June 2020

Aim and Objectvie:

The intake of Stachys sieboldii MIQ. has been associated with
relieving inflammation and maintaining optimal gut health function. We investigated the diversity
and composition of microflora in feces of S. sieboldii MIQ.-fed mice. In addition, we evaluated the
production of major cytokines (Interleukin-6 and -10) related to inflammation and fatty acid
composition of several tissues.

Materials and Methods:

16S ribosomal DNA sequencing-based microbiome taxonomic profiling
analysis was performed using EzBioCloud data base. The total RNA from the mesenteric lymph
node was isolated and then synthesized with prime script 1st strand cDNA synthesis kit.
Quantitative real-time PCR was performed on cDNA samples using the SYBR™ Green PCR
Master Mix.

Results:

Mice fed on S. sieboldii MIQ. showed significantly reduced counts of aerobic and
coliform in the feces compared with control. 16S rDNA sequencing analysis of fecal samples
showed that supplementation with S. sieboldii MIQ. increased beneficial intestinal microflora
(Ruminococcaceae and Akkermansia muciniphila) and decreased the community of harmful
microflora (Enterobacteriaceae, including Escherichia coli and Bacteroides sp.) in feces compared
with that in the control (P<0.05 for all). Mice showed a significantly lower mRNA expression of
cytokines IL-6 and IL-10 in mesenteric lymph node compared with that in control (P<0.05). The
fecal fatty acid composition in the S. sieboldii MIQ. group showed a higher percentage of 6:0 and
18:2n-6 compared with that in the control group (P<0.05). The percentages of 6:0 and 20:3n-6 fatty
acids were also significantly higher in the intestines of S. sieboldii MIQ. group (P<0.05). No
differences were revealed between the two groups in terms of the percentages of total saturated,
monounsaturated, n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids found in feces and tissues.

Conclusions:

The present results showed that supplementation of mice with S. sieboldii MIQ.
increased beneficial gut microflora and decreased harmful microflora. Moreover, lower mRNA
expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6, and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in the
mesenteric lymph node of supplemented mice might be associated with the lower abundances of
harmful fecal microflora.