bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Connecting Patients' Perceptions of Nurses' Daily Care Actions, Organizational Human Caring Culture, and Overall Hospital Rating in Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Surveys
Authors: Wei Holly , Oehlert Julie Kennedy , Hofler Linda , Hill Kevin N.
Published: August 2020

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to connect patients' perceptions of nurses' daily care actions with patients' overall ratings of their hospital experience and hospitals' human caring culture.

BACKGROUND

The Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) is a national standardized survey measuring patients' hospital experience. Current literature lacks the connections between patients' perceptions of nurses' daily care actions and their overall hospital experience measured by the HCAHPS survey.

METHODS

This is a correlational study based on the HCAHPS surveys from patients discharged from a hospital in the United States. Correlations were conducted between patients' perceptions of nurses' daily care actions and overall hospital experience.

RESULTS

A total of 3,258 (16.6%) patients returned the HCAHPS survey between January and May 2019. Significant relationships were found among patients' perceptions of nurses' daily care actions, hospitals' caring culture, and overall experience.

CONCLUSION

Nurses' daily care actions significantly contribute to favorable patients' overall hospital ratings on HCAHPS.
Can Machine Learning Help Identify Patients at Risk for Recurrent Sexually Transmitted Infections?
Authors: Elder Heather R. , Gruber Susan , Willis Sarah J. , Cocoros Noelle , Callahan Myfanwy , Flagg Elaine W. , Klompas Michael , Hsu Katherine K.
Published: August 2020

Background

A substantial fraction of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) occur in patients who have previously been treated for an STI. We assessed whether routine electronic health record (EHR) data can predict which patients presenting with an incident STI are at greatest risk for additional STIs in the next 1 to 2 years.

Methods

We used structured EHR data on patients 15 years or older who acquired an incident STI diagnosis in 2008 to 2015 in eastern Massachusetts. We applied machine learning algorithms to model risk of acquiring ≥1 or ≥2 additional STIs diagnoses within 365 or 730 days after the initial diagnosis using more than 180 different EHR variables. We performed sensitivity analysis incorporating state health department surveillance data to assess whether improving the accuracy of identifying STI cases improved algorithm performance.

Results

We identified 8723 incident episodes of laboratory-confirmed gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis. Bayesian Additive Regression Trees, the best-performing algorithm of any single method, had a cross-validated area under the receiver operating curve of 0.75. Receiver operating curves for this algorithm showed a poor balance between sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV). A predictive probability threshold with a sensitivity of 91.5% had a corresponding PPV of 3.9%. A higher threshold with a PPV of 29.5% had a sensitivity of 11.7%. Attempting to improve the classification of patients with and without repeat STIs diagnoses by incorporating health department surveillance data had minimal impact on cross-validated area under the receiver operating curve.

Conclusions

Machine algorithms using structured EHR data did not differentiate well between patients with and without repeat STIs diagnosis. Alternative strategies, able to account for sociobehavioral characteristics, could be explored.
Evaluation of Training Gaps Among Public Health Practitioners in Washington State
Authors: Sainkhuu Solongo , Cunha-Cruz Joana , Rogers Megan , Knerr Sarah , Bekemeier Betty
Published: August 2020

Context:

Identifying training gaps in public health competencies and skills is a first step in developing priorities for advancing the workforce.

Objective:

Our purpose was to identify training gaps in competencies and skills among local, state, and nonjurisdictional public health employees in Washington State. Our secondary aim was to determine whether training gaps differed by employees' work-related and demographic characteristics.

Design:

We used data from our training needs assessment of the public health workforce, conducted as an online cross-sectional survey in Spring/Summer of 2016.

Respondents and Setting:

Employees from governmental local, state, and nonjurisdictional public health departments in Washington State.

Main Outcome Measures:

Training gaps were calculated for 8 public health competencies and 8 skills, using a composite score of respondents' ratings of their “training confidence” and “training need.” For each domain and skill area, we calculated the percentage of associated items, where respondents rated their training needs as high and their confidence as low to create scores ranging from 0% to 100%.

Results:

The largest training gaps in public health competencies were in the Financial Planning and Policy Development domains. For skills, Quality Improvement and Developing Effective Communication Campaigns had the largest training gaps. In adjusted models, female employees or employees working in local health departments in select Washington State regions had higher training gaps in Financial Planning, Policy Development, and Quality Improvement, relative to male or state health department employees. Employees who worked in specialized programs, such as Communicable Disease Control, and Maternal, Child, and Family Health, had higher training gaps in Financial Planning and Developing Effective Communication Campaigns than those who worked in Administrative and Support Services.

Conclusions:

We identified important training gaps in several competency domains and skills. Findings are informing decisions about tailoring training opportunities for public health practitioners in Washington and other states.
An Analysis of Local Health Departments' Responsiveness to Community Segregation in Their Efforts to Address Health Disparities
Authors: Olivas Maria I. , Kanda Deborah , Trivedi Rakhi , Shah Gulzar H. , Waterfield Kristie C.
Published: August 2020

Recent studies have found that racial health disparities are a direct result of the residential segregation, racial differences in socioeconomic status, health care access, and other social determinants of health that affect segregated minority groups. This study analyzed local health departments' (LHDs') efforts to decrease health disparities in their communities by using negative binomial regression models to examine the relationship between residential segregation and LHD health disparity activity engagement from the 2016 National Profile of LHDs—National Association of County & City Health Officials (NACCHO) and the 2017 County Health Rankings (CHRs). Significant associations were found between the incident rate ratios of activities performed by LHDs and the nonwhite/white residential segregation index, use of CHRs, LHD governance, per capita expenditures, and race of LHD top executive. The findings will help improvement in collaborative efforts between community agencies and LHDs in order to improve health disparity responsiveness.
The Effectiveness of Community-based Outreach Events for the Promotion of African American Research Participation
Authors: Bardach Shoshana H. , Barber Justin M. , Schmitt Frederick A. , Van Eldik Linda J. , Boggess Morgan B. , Yarbrough Markeda , Jones Keisha C. , Jicha Gregory A.
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

African Americans (AA) are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias yet are under-represented in clinical research. Outreach events for AA are offered to encourage research participation; however, this approach’s effectiveness remains largely unexplored.

Methods:

To explore the effectiveness of AA-focused versus general audience events, the authors examined attendance data over 5 years, encompassing 10 general audience events and 4 events focused on AA. For each individual, the authors searched center records for recruitment contacts and research enrollment. Summary scores for attendance at AA-focused events, general audience events, and total events were compared between those with and without research involvement.

Results:

Out of 773 unique AA that attended ≥1 event, 88 became or were involved in research (11.4% engagement). AA-focused events achieved greater AA attendance than general audience events. Although research-engaged individuals were more likely to have ever attended an AA-focused event than a general audience event, attendance at AA-focused events did not statistically relate to research engagement. In contrast, attendance at events focused on the general public was related to an increased likelihood of research participation.

Discussion:

These findings have important implications for designing and implementing community events to encourage AA research participation.
Optical Flow Estimation Improves Automated Seizure Detection in Neonatal EEG
Authors: Martin Joel R. , Gabriel Paolo G. , Gold Jeffrey J. , Haas Richard , Davis Suzanne L. , Gonda David D. , Sharpe Cynthia , Wilson Scott B. , Nierenberg Nicolas C. , Scheuer Mark L. , Wang Sonya G.
Published: August 2020

Purpose:

Existing automated seizure detection algorithms report sensitivities between 43% and 77% and specificities between 56% and 90%. The algorithms suffer from false alarms when applied to neonatal EEG because of the high degree of nurse handling and rhythmic patting used to soothe neonates. Computer vision technology that quantifies movement in real time could distinguish artifactual motion and improve automated neonatal seizure detection algorithms.

Methods:

The authors used video EEG recordings from 43 neonates undergoing monitoring for seizures as part of the NEOLEV2 clinical trial. The Persyst neonatal automated seizure detection algorithm ran in real time during study EEG acquisitions. Computer vision algorithms were applied to extract detailed accounts of artifactual movement of the neonate or people near the neonate though dense optical flow estimation.

Results:

Using the methods mentioned above, 197 periods of patting activity were identified and quantified, of which 45 generated false-positive automated seizure detection events. A binary patting detection algorithm was trained with a subset of 470 event videos. This supervised detection algorithm was applied to a testing subset of 187 event videos with 8 false-positive events, which resulted in a 24% reduction in false-positive automated seizure detections and a 50% reduction in false-positive events caused by neonatal care patting, while maintaining 11 of 12 true-positive seizure detection events.

Conclusions:

This work presents a novel approach to improving automated seizure detection algorithms used during neonatal video EEG monitoring. This artifact detection mechanism can improve the ability of a seizure detector algorithm to distinguish between artifact and true seizure activity.
Mechanism of Hsp70 specialized interactions in protein translocation and the unfolded protein response
Authors: Larburu Natacha , Adams Christopher J. , Chen Chao-Sheng , Nowak Piotr R. , Ali Maruf M. U.
Published: August 2020

Hsp70 chaperones interact with substrate proteins in a coordinated fashion that is regulated by nucleotides and enhanced by assisting cochaperones. There are numerous homologues and isoforms of Hsp70 that participate in a wide variety of cellular functions. This diversity can facilitate adaption or specialization based on particular biological activity and location within the cell. In this review, we highlight two specialized binding partner proteins, Tim44 and IRE1, that interact with Hsp70 at the membrane in order to serve their respective roles in protein translocation and unfolded protein response signalling. Recent mechanistic data suggest analogy in the way the two Hsp70 homologues (BiP and mtHsp70) can bind and release from IRE1 and Tim44 upon substrate engagement. These shared mechanistic features may underlie how Hsp70 interacts with specialized binding partners and may extend our understanding of the mechanistic repertoire that Hsp70 chaperones possess.
The proteostatic effects of traffic-derived air pollution on Alzheimer's disease risk
Authors: Kikis Elise A.
Published: August 2020

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disease and the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. Recent decades have been marked by considerable advances in our understanding of genetic and environmental risk factors and also of the AD mechanism(s) of action. Nonetheless, there is still no cure and the myriad ways AD affects the brain is overwhelmingly complex. Such complexity is manifest in part by the fact that genetic background interacts with the environment, including traffic-derived particulate air pollution, to greatly exacerbate AD risk. Determining the mechanisms by which particulate air pollution acts as an AD risk factor has the potential to reveal yet unknown aspects of AD pathology. This review carefully peels back the layers of complexity to discern whether a unifying disease model, one with proteostasis imbalance at its core, holds up to scrutiny in light of the recent literature. While the data are compelling, it is now time for carefully designed studies to definitively determine whether particulate air pollution acts with ageing, genetic background and other sources of proteotoxic stress to disrupt the delicate proteostasis balance.
Enhanced heterogenous hydration of SO
2
through immobilization of pyridinic-N on carbon materials
Authors: Zou Longhua , Yan Ping , Lu Peng , Chen Dongyao , Chu Wei , Cen Wanglai
Published: August 2020

Carbon materials doped with nitrogen have long been used for SO
2
removal from flue gases for the benefits of the environment. The role of water is generally regarded as hydration of SO
3
which is formed through the oxidization of SO
2
. However, the hydration of SO
2
, especially on the surface of N-doped carbon materials, was almost ignored. In this study, the hydration of SO
2
was investigated in detail on the pyridinic nitrogen (PyN)-doped graphene (GP) surfaces. It is found that, compared with the homogeneous hydration of SO
2
assisted with NH
3
in gas phase, the heterogeneous hydration is much more thermodynamically and kinetically favourable. Specifically, when a single H
2
O molecule is involved, the energy barrier for SO
2
hydration is as low as 0.15 eV, with 0.59 eV released, indicating the hydration of SO
2
can occur at rather low water concentration and temperature. Thermodynamic integration molecular dynamics results show the feasibility of the hydrogenated substrate recovery and the immobilized N acting as a catalytic site for SO
2
hydration. Our findings show that the heterogeneous hydration of SO
2
should be universal and potentially uncover the puzzling reaction mechanism for SO
2
catalytic oxidation at low temperature by N-doped carbon materials.
Characteristics and weathering mechanisms of the traditional Chinese blue brick from the ancient city of Ping Yao
Authors: Liu Jian-bin , Zhang Zhong-jian
Published: August 2020

The traditional blue brick was the dominant clay brick used in Chinese architecture before the mid-nineteenth century. The ancient city of Ping Yao, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) heritage site, is an outstanding example of blue brick architecture. The Ping Yao bricks within the damp areas (up to 4 m at highest) of the ancient city's walls and private houses are subjected to various weathering, including contour scaling, flaking, powdering and salt crystallization. This study aims to characterize the properties, analyse weathering mechanisms, determine the main weathering factors and discuss the anti-weathering strategies of blue bricks. To do so, samples of brick and salt efflorescence were collected from the historical buildings of Ping Yao and were studied with regard to their mineralogical and physico-mechanical (e.g. density, porosity, pore size distribution, water absorption and uniaxial compressive strength) properties. The resistance to salt crystallization and frost, and the maximum firing temperatures of the brick samples were determined in the laboratory. Weathering mechanisms and anti-weathering strategies were discussed. Salt crystallization and freeze–thaw cycles were found to be two important factors that lead to brick weathering. An anti-weathering strategy of ‘damp blocking, desalination and brick replacing’ was discussed based on the laboratory experiments, suggestions in literature and site conditions.
Depth-dependent dive kinematics suggest cost-efficient foraging strategies by tiger sharks
Authors: Andrzejaczek Samantha , Gleiss Adrian C. , Lear Karissa O. , Pattiaratchi Charitha , Chapple Taylor K. , Meekan Mark G.
Published: August 2020

Tiger sharks,
Galeocerdo cuvier
, are a keystone, top-order predator that are assumed to engage in cost-efficient movement and foraging patterns. To investigate the extent to which oscillatory diving by tiger sharks conform to these patterns, we used a biologging approach to model their cost of transport. High-resolution biologging tags with tri-axial sensors were deployed on 21 tiger sharks at Ningaloo Reef for durations of 5–48 h. Using overall dynamic body acceleration as a proxy for energy expenditure, we modelled the cost of transport of oscillatory movements of varying geometries in both horizontal and vertical planes for tiger sharks. The cost of horizontal transport was minimized by descending at the smallest possible angle and ascending at an angle of 5–14°, meaning that vertical oscillations conserved energy compared to swimming at a level depth. The reduction of vertical travel costs occurred at steeper angles. The absolute dive angles of tiger sharks increased between inshore and offshore zones, presumably to reduce the cost of transport while continuously hunting for prey in both benthic and surface habitats. Oscillatory movements of tiger sharks conform to strategies of cost-efficient foraging, and shallow inshore habitats appear to be an important habitat for both hunting prey and conserving energy while travelling.
Reclassification of Streptomyces fulvissimus as a later heterotypic synonym of Streptomyces microflavus
Authors: Komaki Hisayuki , Tamura Tomohiko
Published: August 2020

We investigated the taxonomic relationships among

Streptomyces fulvissimus

,

Streptomyces fulvorobeus

and

Streptomyces microflavus

. These type strains shared the same 16S rRNA gene sequence. Digital DNA–DNA relatedness and average nucleotide identity analyses using whole genome sequences suggested that

S. fulvissimus

and

S. microflavus

belong to the same genomospecies, whereas

S. fulvorobeus

does not. In addition to previously reported phenotypic data, the presence of almost the same set of secondary metabolite-biosynthetic gene clusters for polyketides and nonribosomal peptides also supported the synonymy between

S. fulvissimus

and

S. microflavus

. Therefore,

S. fulvissimus

should be reclassified as a later heterotypic synonym of

S. microflavus

.
Paraburkholderia solitsugae sp. nov. and Paraburkholderia elongata sp. nov., phenolic acid-degrading bacteria isolated from forest soil and emended description of Paraburkholderia madseniana
Authors: Wilhelm Roland C. , Cyle K. Taylor , Martinez Carmen Enid , Karasz David C. , Newman Jeffrey D. , Buckley Daniel H.
Published: August 2020

Two bacterial strains, 1NT and 5NT, were isolated from hemlock forest soil using a soluble organic matter enrichment. Cells of 1NT (0.65×1.85 µm) and 5NT (0.6×1.85 µm) are Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, motile, non-sporulating and exist as single rods, diplobacilli or in chains of varying length. During growth in dilute media (≤0.1× tryptic soy broth; TSB), cells are primarily motile with flagella. At higher concentrations (≥0.3× TSB), cells of both strains increasingly form non-motile chains, and cells of 5NT elongate (0.57×~7 µm) and form especially long filaments. Optimum growth of 1NT and 5NT occurred at 25–30 °C, pH 6.5–7.0 and <0.5% salinity. Results of comparative chemotaxonomic, genomic and phylogenetic analyses revealed that 1NT and 5NT were distinct from one another and their closest related type strains:

Paraburkholderia madseniana

RP11T,

Paraburkholderia aspalathi

LMG 27731T and

Paraburkholderia caffeinilytica

CF1T. The genomes of 1NT and 5NT had an average nucleotide identity (91.6 and 91.3%) and in silico DNA–DNA hybridization values (45.8%±2.6 and 45.5%±2.5) and differed in functional gene content from their closest related type strains. The composition of fatty acids and patterns of substrate use, including the catabolism of phenolic acids, also differentiated strains 1NT and 5NT from each other and their closest relatives. The only ubiquinone present in strains 1NT and 5NT was Q-8. The major cellular fatty acids were C16 : 0, 3OH-C16 : 0, C17 : 0 cyclo, C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c and summed features 2 (3OH-C14 : 0 / C16 : 1 iso I), 3 (C16 : 1 ω6c/ω7c) and 8 (C18 : 1 ω7c/ω6c). A third bacterium, strain RL16-012-BIC-B, was isolated from soil associated with shallow roots and was determined to be a strain of

P. madseniana

(ANI, 98.8%; 16S rRNA gene similarity, 100%). Characterizations of strain RL16-012-BIC-B (DSM 110723=LMG 31706) led to proposed emendments to the species description of

P. madseniana

. Our polyphasic approach demonstrated that strains 1NT and 5NT represent novel species from the genus

Paraburkholderia

for which the names Paraburkholderia solitsugae sp. nov. (type strain 1NT=DSM 110721T=LMG 31704T) and Paraburkholderia elongata sp. nov. (type strain 5NT=DSM 110722T=LMG 31705T) are proposed.
DNA methylation signatures of C-reactive protein associations with structural neuroimaging measures and major depressive disorder
Authors: Green Claire , Shen Xueyi , Stevenson Anna J. , Conole Eleanor L.S. , Harris Mathew A. , Barbu Miruna C. , Hawkins Emma L. , Adams Mark J. , Lawrie Stephen M. , Evans Kathryn L. , Walker Rosie M. , Morris Stewart W. , Porteous David J. , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Steele J Douglas , Waiter Gordon D. , Sandu Anca-Larisa , Campbell Archie , Marioni Riccardo E. , Cox Simon R. , Cavanagh Jonathan , McIntosh Andrew M. , Whalley Heather C.
Published: August 2020

Background

Inflammatory processes are implicated in the aetiology of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD); however, the relationship between peripheral inflammation, brain structure and depression remains unclear. This study investigates associations between depression, structural neuroimaging measures and two measures of inflammation: serum-based C-reactive protein (CRP) and a methylation-based score for CRP (DNAm CRP) in a large community-based sample.

Methods

Serum CRP and DNAm CRP were assessed for participants in Generation Scotland (NMDD cases = 240, Ncontrols = 558) alongside structural brain scans (T1 and diffusion MRI). Linear regression was used to investigate associations between (i) both CRP measures and depressive symptoms, (ii) both CRP measures and structural imaging variables and (iii) inflammation x MDD interaction effects (for both CRP measures) with imaging measures.

Results

Increased serum CRP was significantly associated with overall MDD symptom severity and specifically with somatic symptoms-general interest (β= 0.145, PFDR = 6×10-4) and energy levels (β= 0.101, PFDR = 0.027) and also reduced entorhinal cortex thickness (β= – 0.095, PFDR = 0.037). DNAm CRP was significantly associated with reduced global grey matter/cortical volume and reduced integrity of 16 white matter tracts and showed larger effect sizes (βaverage = −0.15) compared to serum CRP across all measures (βaverage = 0.01).

Conclusions

Acute measures of CRP were related to current depression symptoms, specifically somatic symptoms, whereas methylation signatures of inflammation demonstrated greater differences in global and regional brain structure. This study highlights the utility of combining serological and methylation markers to study chronic inflammation effects on the brain in psychiatric disorders.
Investigation into Quality of Life and Psychological Status of Different Populations during COVID-19: A study concerning Surrounding Areas of Wuhan
Authors: Liu Zheng , Mu Jingsong , Fan Wenxiang
Published: August 2020

Objective

To investigate different populations’ quality of life and psychological status in surrounding areas of Wuhan during COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

The data of 248 residents living in Anhui from February 4 to 6 of 2020 were collected through network surveys including age, gender, occupation, the World Health Organization Quality of Life measurement Scale short form (World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument brief, WHOQOL BREF), Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale (Self-rating Anxiety Scale, SAS and Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Those surveyed, divided into two groups: medical staff (129 cases) and nonmedical staff (119 cases), were made statistic analysis according to the factors mentioned above.

Results

The WHOQOL-BREF of medical staff in this region was lower than that of nonmedical staff in the fields of physiology, psychology, social relations, and environment, among whom female medical staff scored significantly lower than that of male medical staff in four fields. There was no significant statistical difference in SAS and SDS scores between the two groups, and gender had no significant influence on SAS and SDS scores of medical staff.

Conclusion

During the COVID-19 pandemic, medical staff enjoyed a lower quality of life in surrounding areas of Wuhan than that of nonmedical staff, and female medical staff even lower, which should arouse social concerns.
COVID-19 ICU and mechanical ventilation patient characteristics and outcomes - A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Raymond , Elhusseiny Khaled Mossad , Yeh Yu-Chang , Sun Wei-Zen
Published: August 2020

Background

Insight into COVID-19 intensive care unit (ICU) patient characteristics, rates and risks of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and associated outcomes as well as any regional discrepancies is critical in this pandemic for individual case management and overall resource planning.

Methods and Findings

Electronic searches were performed for reports through May 1 2020 and reports on COVID-19 ICU admissions and outcomes were included using predefined search terms. Relevant data was subsequently extracted and pooled using fixed or random effects meta-analysis depending on heterogeneity. Study quality was assessed by the NIH tool and heterogeneity was assessed by I2 and Q tests. Baseline patient characteristics, ICU and IMV outcomes were pooled and meta-analyzed. Pooled odds ratios (pOR) were calculated for clinical features against ICU, IMV mortality. Subgroup analysis was carried out based on patient regions. A total of twenty-eight studies comprising 12,437 COVID-19 ICU admissions from seven countries were meta-analyzed. Pooled ICU admission rate was 21% [95% CI 0.12-0.34] and 69% of cases needed IMV [95% CI 0.61-0.75]. ICU and IMV mortality were 28.3% [95% CI 0.25-0.32], 43% [95% CI 0.29-0.58] and ICU, IMV duration was 7.78 [95% CI 6.99-8.63] and 10.12 [95% CI 7.08-13.16] days respectively. Besides confirming the significance of comorbidities and clinical findings of COVID-19 previously reported, we found the major correlates with ICU mortality were IMV [pOR 16.46, 95% CI 4.37-61.96], acute kidney injury (AKI) [pOR 12.47, 95% CI 1.52-102.7], and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) [pOR 6.52, 95% CI 2.66-16.01]. Subgroup analyses confirm significant regional discrepancies in outcomes.

Conclusions

This is the most comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of COVID-19 ICU and IMV cases and associated outcomes to date and the only analysis to implicate IMV’s associtaion with COVID-19 ICU mortality. The significant association of AKI, ARDS and IMV with mortality has implications for ICU resource planning for AKI and ARDS as well as research into optimal ventilation strategies for patients. Regional differences in outcome implies a need to develop region specific protocols for ventilatory support as well as overall treatment.
End-to-End Protocol for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 from Built Environments
Authors: Parker Ceth W. , Singh Nitin , Tighe Scott , Blachowicz Adriana , Wood Jason M. , Seuylemezian Arman , Vaishampayan Parag , Urbaniak Camilla , Hendrickson Ryan , Laaguiby Pheobe , Clark Kevin , Clement Brian G. , O’Hara Niamh B. , Couto-Rodriguez Mara , Bezdan Daniela , Mason Chris , Venkateswaran Kasthuri
Published: August 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019, is a respiratory virus primarily transmitted from person to person through inhalation of droplets or aerosols, laden with viral particles. However, as some studies have shown, virions can remain infectious for up to 72 hours on surfaces, which can lead to transmission through contact. For this reason, a comprehensive study was conducted to determine the efficiency of protocols to recover SARS-CoV-2 from surfaces in built environments. This end-to-end (E2E) study showed that the effective combination of monitoring SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces include using an Isohelix swab as a collection tool, DNA/RNA Shield as a preservative, an automated system for RNA extraction, and reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) as the detection assay. Using this E2E approach, this study showed that, in some cases, SARS-CoV-2 viral standards were still recovered from surfaces as detected by RT-qPCR for as long as eight days even after bleach treatment. Additionally, debris associated with specific built environment surfaces appeared to negatively impact the recovery of RNA, with Amerstat inhibition as high as 90% when challenged with an inactivated viral control. Overall, it was determined that this E2E protocol required a minimum of 1,000 viral particles per 25 cm2 to successfully detect virus from test surfaces. When this method was employed to evaluate 368 samples collected from various built environmental surfaces, all samples tested negative, indicating that the surfaces were either void of virus or below the detection limit of the assay.

Importance

The ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (the virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019; COVID-19) pandemic has led to a global slow down with far reaching financial and social impacts. The SARS-CoV-2 respiratory virus is primarily transmitted from person to person through inhalation of infected droplets or aerosols. However, some studies have shown virions can remain infectious on surfaces for days, and can lead to human infection from contact with infected surfaces. Thus, a comprehensive study was conducted to determine the efficiency of protocols to recover SARS-CoV-2 from surfaces in built environments. This end-to-end study showed that the effective combination of monitoring SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces required a minimum of 1,000 viral particles per 25 cm2 to successfully detect virus from surfaces. This comprehensive study can provide valuable information regarding surface monitoring of various materials as well as the capacity to retain viral RNA and allow for effective disinfection.
Acute Peritoneal Dialysis During the COVID-19 Pandemic at Bellevue Hospital in New York City
Authors: Caplin Nina J. , Zhdanova Olga , Tandon Manish , Thompson Nathan , Patel Dhwanil , Soomro Qandeel , Ranjeeta Fnu , Joseph Leian , Scherer Jennifer , Joshi Shivam , Dyal Betty , Chawla Harminder , Iyer Sitalakshmi , Bails Doug , Benstein Judith , Goldfarb David S. , Gelb Bruce , Amerling Richard , Charytan David M.
Published: August 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic created an unprecedented strain on hospitals in New York City. Although practitioners focused on the pulmonary devastation, resources for the provision of dialysis proved to be more constrained. To deal with these shortfalls, NYC Health and Hospitals/Bellevue, NYU Brooklyn, NYU Medical Center and the New York Harbor VA Healthcare System, put together a plan to offset the anticipated increased needs for kidney replacement therapy.

Prior to the pandemic, peritoneal dialysis was not used for acute kidney injury at Bellevue Hospital. We were able to rapidly establish an acute peritoneal dialysis program at Bellevue Hospital for acute kidney injury patients in the intensive care unit. A dedicated surgery team was assembled to work with the nephrologists for bedside placement of the peritoneal dialysis catheters. A multi-disciplinary team was trained by the lead nephrologist to deliver peritoneal dialysis in the intensive care unit. Between April 8, 2020 and May 8, 2020, 39 peritoneal dialysis catheters were placed at Bellevue Hospital. 38 patients were successfully started on peritoneal dialysis. As of June 10, 2020, 16 patients recovered renal function. One end stage kidney disease patient was converted to peritoneal dialysis and was discharged. One catheter was poorly functioning, and the patient was changed to hemodialysis before recovering renal function. There were no episodes of peritonitis and nine incidents of minor leaking, which resolved. Some patients received successful peritoneal dialysis while being ventilated in the prone position.

In summary, despite severe shortages of staff, supplies and dialysis machines during the COVID-19 pandemic, we were able to rapidly implement a de novo peritoneal dialysis program which enabled provision of adequate kidney replacement therapy to all admitted patients who needed it. Our experience is a model for the use of acute peritoneal dialysis in crisis situations.
Hypertension among people living with HIV/AIDS in Cameroon: A cross-sectional analysis from Central Africa International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS
Authors: Dzudie Anastase , Hoover Don , Kim Hae-Young , Ajeh Rogers , Adedimeji Adebola , Shi Qiuhu , Yone Walter Pefura , Nforniwe Denis Nsame , Njie Kinge Thompson , Kengne Andre Pascal , Ebasone Vanes Peter , Barche Blaise , Cecile Zoung-Kany Bisseck Anne , Nash Denis , Yotebieng Marcel , Anastos Kathryn
Published: August 2020

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) success has led people to live longer with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) and thus be exposed to increasing risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Hypertension (HTN), the biggest contributor to CVD burden, is a growing concern among PLWH. The current report describes the prevalence and predictors of HTN among PLWH in care in Cameroon.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included all PLWH aged 20 years and above who received care between 2016 and 2019 at one of the three Central Africa International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (CA-IeDEA) sites in Cameroon (Bamenda, Limbe, and Yaoundé). HTN was defined as blood pressure (BP) ≥140/90 mm Hg or self-reported use of antihypertensive medication. Logistic regressions models examined the relationship between HTN and clinical characteristics, and HIV-related factors.

Results

Among 9,839 eligible PLWH, 66.2% were female and 25.0% had prevalent HTN [age-standardized prevalence 23.9% (95% CI: 22.2–25.6)], among whom 28 (1.1%) were on BP lowering treatment, and 6 of those (21.4%) were at target BP levels. Median age (47.4 vs. 40.5 years), self-reported duration of HIV infection (5.1 vs 2.8 years), duration of ART exposure (4.7 vs 2.3 years), and CD4 count (408 vs 359 cell/mm3) were higher in hypertensives than non-hypertensives (all p< 0.001). Age and body mass index (BMI) were independently associated with higher prevalent HTN risk. PLWH starting ART had a 30% lower risk of prevalent HTN, but this advantage disappeared after a cumulative 2-year exposure to ART. There was no significant association between other HIV predictive characteristics and HTN.

Conclusion

About a quarter of these Cameroonian PLWH had HTN, driven among others by age and adiposity. Appropriate integration of HIV and NCDs services is needed to improve early detection, treatment and control of common comorbid NCD risk factors like hypertension and safeguard cardiovascular health in PLWH.
Longitudinal SARS-CoV-2 serosurveillance of over ten thousand health care workers in the Providence Oregon cohort
Authors: Leidner Rom , Frary Angi , Cramer Julie , Ball David , Weerasinghe Roshanthi , Schmidt Mark , Jin Justin , Luzzi Veronica , Saitman Alec , Young Jeffrey A. , Leidner David , Sawa Kendall , Marsal Scott , Olson Kevin , Frisco Nancy , Compton-Phillips Amy , Urba Walter , Piening Brian , Bifulco Carlo
Published: August 2020

Frontline healthcare workers (HCW) are a high-risk population for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here we present results from a large serosurveillance study of 10,019 asymptomatic HCW conducted during April-May 2020, in eight hospital medical centers across the state of Oregon, USA during the initial peak of the pandemic. Free and voluntary testing was performed at 14 +/− 3 day intervals, over a 4-week window at each site, utilizing a lab-developed ELISA based on the Epitope Diagnostics COVID-19 nucleocapsid IgG detection Kit. We identified 253 SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositive individuals among 10,019 total participants, representing a cross-sectional seroprevalence of 2.53%. Subgroup analysis identified differential seropositivity by job role, ranging from 8.03% among housekeepers, odds ratio 3.17 (95% CI 1.59–5.71), to 0.00% among anesthesiologists, odds ratio 0.00 (95% CI 0–0.26), both of which were significant. Over the course of the study, 17 seroconversions (0.25%) and 101 seroreversions (1.50%) were identified. Self-reported SARS-CoV-2 swab qPCR testing, when compared with subsequent serology on study, showed only modest agreement, κ = 0.47 (95% CI 0.32–0.62). Overall, these findings demonstrate relatively low seroprevalence and very low seroconversion rates among HCW in Oregon, USA, over a period in which aggressive social distancing measures were in place. The high rate of seroreversion observed in this cohort, and the relatively high discordance between SARS-CoV-2 serology and swab qPCR, highlight limitations of current detection methods, and stress the need for development of novel assessment methodologies to more accurately identify exposure (and/or immunity) to SARS-CoV-2 in this population.
Single-cell analysis identifies TCF4 and ID3 as a molecular switch of mammary epithelial stem cell differentiation
Authors: Yan Koon-Kiu , Nekritz Erin , Ju Bensheng , Dong Xinran , Werner Rachel , Alsina-Beauchamp Dayanira , Rosencrance Celeste , Mukhopadhyay Partha , Pan Qingfei , Gorbatenko Andrej , Ding Liang , Wang Yanyan , Qian Chenxi , Shi Hao , Shaner Bridget , Natarajan Sivaraman , Chi Hongbo , Easton John , Silva Jose , Yu Jiyang
Published: August 2020

It is well known that the expansion of the mammary epithelium during the ovarian cycles in female mammals is supported by the transient increase in mammary epithelial stem cells (MaSCs). However, dissecting the molecular mechanisms that govern MaSC function and differentiation is poorly understood due to the lack of standardized methods for their identification and isolation.

The development of robust single-cell mRNA sequencing () technologies and the computational methods to analyze them provides us with novel tools to approach the challenge of studying MaSCs in a completely unbiased way without. Here, we have performed the largest scRNA-seq analysis of individual mammary epithelial cells (~70,000 cells). Our study identified a distinct cell population presenting molecular features of MaSCs.

Importantly, further purification and additional in-depth single-cell analysis of these cells revealed that they are not a fully homogenous entity. Instead, we identified three subpopulations representing early stages of lineage commitment. By tracking their molecular evolution through single-cell network analysis we found that one of these subpopulations represents bipotent MaSCs from which luminal and basal lineages diverge. Importantly, we also confirmed the presence of these cells in human mammary glands. Finally, through expression and network analysis studies, we have uncovered transcription factors that are activated early during lineage commitment. These data identified E2-2 (Tcf4) and ID3 as a potential molecular switch of mammary epithelial stem cell differentiation.
Illegal hunting threatens the establishment of a lynx population and highlights the need of a centralized judiciary approach
Authors: Arlettaz Raphaël , Chapron Guillaume , Kéry Marc , Klaus Elisabeth , Mettaz Stéphane , Roder Stefanie , Vignali Sergio , Zimmermann Fridolin , Braunisch Veronika
Published: August 2020

Illegal hunting (poaching) represents a major threat to the conservation of large predators. Yet, its impact remains difficult to quantify as there are strong incentives to conceal this criminal activity. Attributing changes in the population status of large carnivores in part to poaching is therefore an important conservation challenge.

We present a case study of lynx (Lynx lynx) in southwestern Switzerland (canton of Valais) where the current distribution range is much smaller than it was in the recent past and population density is now >80% lower than in other lynx populations in the Swiss Alps, particularly in the adjacent Pre-Alps. We tested four hypotheses to explain this far lower density: 1) a too low density of trail camera-traps deployed for lynx surveys in Valais compared to the Pre-Alps (i.e. a methodological artefact); 2) less favourable environmental conditions around the camera-trap sites; 3) lower densities of the main prey; and 4) poaching.

We estimated lynx and ungulate densities and environmental conditions at trail camera sites, and were able to clearly reject the first three hypotheses: 1) the monitoring protocol was similarly effective; 2) environmental conditions around the trapping sites in Valais were even more favourable to lynx detection than in the Pre-Alps; and 3) prey supply was even larger. Concerning hypothesis 4, we discovered a local, but dense network of 17 illegal lynx traps in the narrow main immigration corridor into Valais from the thriving adjacent lynx population in the Pre-Alps, suggesting intense local poaching.

Our findings substantiate the suspicions of long-lasting lynx poaching as a threat to the establishment and survival of the Valais population. The fact that instances of poaching were publicly known since 1995 but remained unabated for at least two decades, until a first conviction occurred, questions the commitment of local authorities to address this case of wildlife crime. Our study shows that inquiries about wildlife crime such as top predator poaching may need to be carried out at the highest levels of jurisdiction to avoid any risk of collusion between law enforcement agents and poachers.
INFLUENCE OF SOME LEGUMINOUS TREES AND ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI ON THE PHYSIOLOGY AND YIELD OF DIOSCOREA ROTUNDATA -POIR
Authors: Afolayan Ezekiel Taiwo
Published: August 2020

This work compares the physiological and yield characteristics of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata – Poir) under Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation, green manures of Gliricidia sepium, Leucaena leucocephala and other soil amendments. The experiment was conducted on the plot of land that had been overcropped, located at the back of the male Hostel, Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. The land was cleared and heaped at 1m x 1m apart. The experimental design employed was a complete randomized design in 5 replicates. The treatments were Glomus deserticola (GD), Glomus fasciculatum (GF), Gliricidia sepium (GS), Leucaena leucocephala (LL), Poultry manure (PM) and NPK fertilizers. Soils were dug from the heaps, 20 g of the inoculums of AMF (GD/ GF) were poured into the dug hole, seeds were laid on it and covered with soil (for GD & GF treatments). Others were applied at one week after sprouting. Growth and yield Parameters were determined at harvest while relative water and chlorophyll contents were measured forth nightly from 10 weeks after treatment. Data obtained were subjected to ANOVA while means were separated by Duncan multiple range test at P> 0.05. Results showed that growth, yield and physiological characters were enhanced in GD, GD+GF, GS and PM treated plants more than in inorganic fertilizers treated plants. There was a positive significant relationship between white yam’s growth, physiology and tuber yield. The study justifies the use of plant/animal manures and Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in place of inorganic fertilizers.
Quantitative trait locus mapping reveals an independent genetic basis for joint divergence in leaf function, life-history, and floral traits between scarlet monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis) populations
Authors: Nelson Thomas C. , Muir Christopher D. , Stathos Angela M. , Vanderpool Daniel D. , Anderson Kayli , Angert Amy L. , Fishman Lila
Published: August 2020

PREMISE

Across taxa, vegetative and floral traits that vary along a fast-slow life-history axis are often correlated with leaf functional traits arrayed along the leaf economics spectrum, suggesting a constrained set of adaptive trait combinations. Such broad-scale convergence may arise from genetic constraints imposed by pleiotropy (or tight linkage) within species, or from natural selection alone. Understanding the genetic basis of trait syndromes and their components is key to distinguishing these alternatives and predicting evolution in novel environments.

METHODS

We used a line-cross approach and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping to characterize the genetic basis of twenty leaf functional/physiological, life history, and floral traits in hybrids between annualized and perennial populations of scarlet monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis).

RESULTS

We mapped both single and multi-trait QTLs for life history, leaf function and reproductive traits, but found no evidence of genetic co-ordination across categories. A major QTL for three leaf functional traits (thickness, photosynthetic rate, and stomatal resistance) suggests that a simple shift in leaf anatomy may be key to adaptation to seasonally dry habitats.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the co-ordination of resource-acquisitive leaf physiological traits with a fast life history and more selfing mating system results from environmental selection rather than functional or genetic constraint. Independent assortment of distinct trait modules, as well as a simple genetic basis to leaf physiological traits associated with drought escape, may facilitate adaptation to changing climates.
Inconsistent effects of urbanization on amphibian genetic diversity
Authors: Schmidt Chloé , Garroway Colin J
Published: August 2020

Habitat loss and fragmentation are leading causes of vertebrate population declines. These declines are thought to be partly due to decreased connectivity and habitat loss reducing population sizes in human transformed habitats. With time this can lead to reduced effective population size and genetic diversity which restricts the ability of wildlife to cope with environmental change through genetic adaptation. However, it is not well understood whether these effects are generally applicable across taxa. Here, we repurposed and synthesized raw microsatellite data from online repositories from 19 amphibian species sampled at 554 sites in North America. For each site, we estimated gene diversity, allelic richness, effective population size, and population differentiation. Using binary urban-rural census designations, and continuous measures of human population density and the Human Footprint Index, we tested for generalizable effects of human land use on amphibian genetic diversity. We found no consistent relationships for any of our genetic metrics. While we did not detect directional effects for most species, a few generalist species responded positively to urbanization. These results contrast with consistent negative effects of urbanization in mammals and species specific positive and negative effects in birds. In the context of widespread amphibian declines, our results suggest that habitat loss in human transformed habitats is a more immediate concern than declining genetic diversity in populations that persist.