bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antenatal Uterotonics as a Risk Factor for Intrapartum Stillbirth and First-day Death in Haryana, India
Authors: Brahmawar Mohan Sanjana , Sommerfelt Halvor , Frøen J. Frederik , Taneja Sunita , Kumar Tivendra , Bhatia Kiran , van der Merwe Lize , Bahl Rajiv , Martines Jose C. , Mazumder Sarmila , Bhandari Nita
Published: July 2020

Background:

Use of uterotonics like oxytocin to induce or augment labor has been shown to reduce placental perfusion and oxygen supply to the fetus, and studies indicate that it may increase the risk of stillbirth and neonatal asphyxia. Antenatal use of uterotonics, even without the required fetal monitoring and prompt access to cesarean section, is widespread, yet no study has adequately estimated the risk of intrapartum stillbirth and early neonatal deaths ascribed to such use. We conducted a case–control study to estimate this risk.

Methods:

We conducted a population-based case–control study nested in a cluster-randomized trial. From 2008 to 2010, we followed pregnant women in rural Haryana, India, monthly until delivery. We visited all live-born infants on day 29 to ascertain whether they were alive. We conducted verbal autopsies for stillbirths and neonatal deaths. Cases (n = 2,076) were the intrapartum stillbirths and day-1 deaths (early deaths), and controls (n = 532) were live-born babies who died between day 8 and 28 (late deaths).

Results:

Antenatal administration of uterotonics preceded 74% of early and 62% of late deaths, translating to an adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval [CI]) for early deaths of 1.7 (95% CI = 1.4, 2.1), and a population attributable risk of 31% (95% CI = 22%, 38%).

Conclusions:

Antenatal administration of uterotonics was associated with a substantially increased risk of intrapartum stillbirth and day-1 death. See video abstract: http://links.lww.com/EDE/B707.
An evidence-based appraisal of complementary and alternative medicine strategies for the management of hypertension
Authors: Lattanzio Michael , Weir Matthew R.
Published: July 2020

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality. Numerous antihypertensive medications and lifestyle changes have proven effective for the reduction of blood pressure (BP). Over the past few decades, the emergence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)-based strategies to lower BP have broadened the therapeutic armamentarium for hypertension. CAM is defined as a group of heterogeneous medical treatments that are used to enhance the effect of standard therapy, or, conversely, are implemented as an alternative to standard practice. The available body of evidence does substantiate the BP-lowering effects of certain CAM-based therapies in individuals with and without established hypertension. Collectively, alternative strategies for BP reduction have undergone less rigorous testing than traditional BP-lowering strategies and the lack of robust clinical data has greatly hampered the broad-scale adoption of CAM therapies into clinical practice. Despite these limitations, CAM-based therapies for the reduction of BP require consideration as they could offer substantial public health benefits given the high prevalence of hypertension in the general population. This article reviews some of the most promising CAM-based therapies for the reduction of BP and cardiovascular outcomes based on the current literature.
Cardiac magnetic resonance-derived fibrosis, strain and molecular biomarkers of fibrosis in hypertensive heart disease
Authors: Pichler Gernot , Redon Josep , Martínez Fernando , Solaz Elena , Calaforra Oscar , Andrés Marta San , Lopez Begoña , Díez Javier , Oberbauer Rainer , Adlbrecht Christopher , Karth Georg Delle , Maceira Alicia
Published: July 2020

Aims:

Myocardial fibrosis is a relevant component of hypertensive heart disease (HHD). Novel cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging techniques have shown potential in quantification of diffuse cardiac fibrosis, with T1 mapping, and estimating preclinical cardiac dysfunction, with strain analysis. Molecular biomarkers of fibrosis have been related with clinical outcomes and histologically proven myocardial fibrosis. The relationship between these CMR-imaging techniques and circulating biomarkers is not fully understood.

Methods and results:

CMR was performed on a 3T scanner in 36 individuals with HHD. Extracellular volume fraction (ECV) and the partition coefficient were assessed using the T1 mapping technique shMOLLI. Longitudinal, circumferential and radial strain was assessed using CMR-Feature Tracking. Molecular biomarkers of collagen synthesis (PICP and PIIINP) and collagen degradation (CITP and MMP-1) were measured in blood using commercial kits. Correlation models showed a significant relationship of T1 mapping measures with left atrial diameter, LV mass, LV posterior wall thickness, LV end-diastolic volume and longitudinal strain. In fully adjusted regression models, ECV was associated with left atrial diameter (β=0.75, P = 0.005) and longitudinal strain (β = 0.43, P = 0.030); the partition coefficient was associated with LV posterior wall thickness (β = 0.53, P = 0.046). Strain measures were associated with cardiac geometry, and longitudinal strain was marginally associated with CITP.

Conclusion:

In individuals with HHD, CMR-derived measures of myocardial fibrosis and function are related and might be useful tools for the identification and characterization of preclinical cardiac dysfunction and diffuse myocardial fibrosis. Molecular biomarkers of fibrosis were marginally associated with myocardial strain, but not with the extension of CMR-measured cardiac fibrosis.
Nasal Swab as Preferred Clinical Specimen for COVID-19 Testing in Children
Authors: Palmas Giordano , Moriondo Maria , Trapani Sandra , Ricci Silvia , Calistri Elisa , Pisano Laura , Perferi Giancarlo , Galli Luisa , Venturini Elisabetta , Indolfi Giuseppe , Azzari Chiara
Published: July 2020

The first pediatric study demonstrating significantly higher positivity rate of nasal (mid-turbinate) swab testing over oropharyngeal swab testing in detecting SARS-CoV-2 (Fisher exact test 0.046, Cohen K 0.43, confidence interval 95%, 0.014–0.855). Benefits might include lower collection-related hazard for healthcare workers. We recommend it as preferred choice for swab-based SARS-CoV-2 testing in children.
Neurologic Manifestations and Complications of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Del Brutto Oscar , Costa Aldo F. , Aguayo Xavier
Published: July 2020

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic originated in China has caused a severe impact on worldwide health. Respiratory symptoms accompanied by unspecific systemic complaints are the most common presentation. However, neurological symptoms and complications could be found in a patient, and this might confer a poor prognosis. In this view, we aim to present a narrative review of neurological manifestations and complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection by performing literature research. We found nonspecific neurological symptoms such as headache, lethargy, anosmia, and dysgeusia reported in a few cohorts. Case reports of encephalitis, acute necrotizing hemorrhagic encephalopathy, and Guillain-Barré syndrome have also been published. Finally, cerebrovascular complications resulting from a hypercoagulation state, reported in some cases of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients, confers higher morbidity, especially in younger patients. Future studies should address the implications of the nervous system manifestations and the possibility of virus permanence in nervous tissue.
Elucidating intraoperative dynamics and safety in posterior polar cataract with intraoperative OCT-guided phacoemulsification
Authors: Titiyal Jeewan S. , Kaur Manpreet , Shaikh Farin , Rani Deeksha , Bageshwar Lalit M.S.
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate morphological characteristics and intraoperative dynamics of posterior polar cataract (PPC) using intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT).

Setting:

Rajendra Prasad Center for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.

Design:

Prospective interventional study.

Methods:

Forty eyes with PPC undergoing phacoemulsification were evaluated. Primary outcome measure was morphology of PPC and intraoperative dynamics of posterior capsule (PC). Secondary outcome measure was PC rent, which was retrospectively compared with 72 PPC cases that underwent non–iOCT-guided surgery.

Results:

Of the 40 eyes evaluated, 3 morphological variants of PPC were observed: type I (19/40 [47.5%]) characterized by intact PC and clearance between PC and opacity, type II (12/40 [30%]) with intact PC in periphery of opacity, shadowing, and inability to detect PC in the center, and type III (9/40 [22.5%]) with dense opacity, extensive shadowing, and inability to delineate PC. In addition to hydrodelineation, hydrodissection was performed in all cases of type I PPC. In types II and III PPC, only hydrodelineation was performed. No case with type I opacity developed PC dehiscence. Three cases (7.5%) with types II (1 eye) and III (2 eyes) PPC developed PC dehiscence during aspiration of epinuclear cushion. Intraocular lens was implanted in all cases in the bag or sulcus. There was no significant difference in PC dehiscence between iOCT-guided and non–iOCT-guided surgery (P = .7).

Conclusions:

iOCT-guided surgery helps to elucidate intraoperative dynamics in PPC and assess real-time PC integrity. It characterizes high-risk morphological features, enables safe hydrodissection in a subset of PPC, but does not decrease the incidence of PC dehiscence.
General Functioning in Patients With First-Episode Psychosis After the First 18 Months of Treatment
Authors: Rojnic Kuzman Martina , Makaric Porin , Bosnjak Kuharic Dina , Kekin Ivana , Madzarac Zoran , Koricancic Makar Ana , Bajic Zarko , Ostojic Drazenka , Silic Ante , Zivkovic Maja
Published: July 2020

Background

One of the main goals in the treatment of first-episode psychosis (FEP) is achieving functional remission. This study aims to analyze whether initial neurocognitive status and the use of specific pharmacological and psychosocial treatment options in FEP can predict general functioning after 18 months of treatment.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal naturalistic study with a sample of 129 patients with FEP treated at 2 Croatian psychiatric clinics from 2016until 2018. Ordinal regression was used to predict the global level of functioning assessed with the Global Assessment of Functioning scale (GAF) at the 18th month of treatment from the baseline symptoms (assessed with a set of neurocognitive tests) and different treatment options.

Results

Higher score on GAF at the 18th month was significantly predicted by female sex, better baseline verbal memory and GAF scores, and the type of treatment. Group multimodal psychosocial treatment, antipsychotic polytherapy, and not being treated with sedatives at baseline predicted better GAF scores at follow-up. In the exploratory analysis, taking sedatives in the final assessment and being rehospitalized due to relapse predicted worse GAF scores at the end of follow-up.

Conclusions

Although baseline neurocognitive features and baseline general functioning seem to influence the overall long-term functioning of persons with FEP, addition of a multimodal group psychosocial treatment program and appropriate medication seem to be equally important for improving the patients’ level of functioning after the FEP.
A Preliminary Examination of Endogenous Peripheral Oxytocin in a Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial of Oxytocin-Enhanced Psychotherapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Sippel Lauren M. , King Courtney E. , Wahlquist Amy E. , Flanagan Julianne C.
Published: July 2020

Background

Preclinical and clinical research suggests that the oxytocin system is implicated in the development and maintenance of stress and anxiety-related psychiatric conditions, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Recent research also suggests that intranasal oxytocin holds promise as a treatment for PTSD. However, little is known about the relationship between levels of peripheral oxytocin and PTSD symptom severity, PTSD treatment response, and repeated intranasal oxytocin administration.

Methods

In the current study, we examined associations between PTSD symptom severity and peripheral oxytocin levels measured in plasma before and after a course of prolonged exposure (PE) for PTSD (n = 13); participants were randomized to adjunctive intranasal oxytocin (n = 6) or placebo (n = 7).

Results

Baseline peripheral oxytocin levels were not associated with baseline PTSD symptom severity. Change in peripheral oxytocin levels did not differ by treatment condition and did not correspond to change in PTSD symptoms.

Conclusions

This proof-of-concept study illustrates the acceptability and feasibility of measuring peripheral oxytocin among individuals engaged in psychotherapy for PTSD and informs the utilization of these procedures in future adequately powered studies.
Correlates of the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale in Veterans With Tardive Dyskinesia
Authors: Caroff Stanley N. , Leong Shirley H. , Roberts Christopher B. , Berkowitz Rosalind M. , Campbell E. Cabrina
Published: July 2020

Purpose/Background

To add to limited evidence on the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) as a measure of tardive dyskinesia (TD) in clinical practice settings, the characteristics and correlates of AIMS scores were assessed.

Methods/Procedures

Veterans with schizophrenia/schizoaffective, bipolar, or major depressive disorders receiving antipsychotics and at least 1 AIMS score during October 1, 2014, to September 30, 2015, were identified. Tardive dyskinesia was determined by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification, codes. Correlates of AIMS scores were examined using χ2 or t tests. Odds ratios and β parameters with 95% confidence intervals for categorical and continuous variables associated with AIMS scores were derived from a multivariate logistic and linear regression, respectively.

Findings/Results

Among 7985 veterans receiving antipsychotics, only 4706 (58.9%) had at least 1 AIMS examination. Of these, 229 (4.9%) were diagnosed with possible TD. The mean total AIMS scores and AIMS awareness/incapacitation scores were significantly higher for patients with TD (both P < 0.0001). Comparing diagnostic threshold criteria of AIMS ratings, only 17.5% to 37.1% of veterans with TD were successfully identified. Among TD patients, 21.4% had a total score of moderate-severe and 15.3% had ratings of at least mild movements in 2 or more body regions. In the regression analyses, being older, African-American, having schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, and receiving antipsychotics or benztropine significantly increased the severity of AIMS scores. Higher AIMS scores were not predictive of outcomes other than marital status in socioeconomic or healthcare domains.

Implications/Conclusions

Although the AIMS is essential for TD research, its value in clinical practice without training and oversight remains unclear. Efforts to adapt screening procedures to clinical needs may be worthwhile.
Multidrug-resistant bacteria in lung transplantation
Authors: Dominguez Fernando , Blodget Emily
Published: July 2020

Purpose of review

The review of infections in lung transplantation is beyond the scope of this article as it is a comprehensive topic, however we aim to focus on infections with multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms in this patient population.

Recent findings

New emerging clinical studies have provided data regarding outcomes in lung transplant recipients with MDR bacterial infections.

Isolation of MDR bacteria from lung donors preoperatively has not been associated with worse outcomes in recipients. Patients with cystic fibrosis colonized with MDR bacteria do not have increased 1 year mortality rates compared to those without MDR bacteria.
Risk stratification and management of QuantiFERON-positive solid-organ living donors
Authors: Gibb Jean , Wong Darren
Published: July 2020

Purpose of review

Donor-derived disease with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is likely to become more common as donor pools expand due to increasing transplant volume coupled with patterns of migration and global mobility. Our article reviews the current literature and provides a rational approach for clinicians managing the scenario of a living donor who has epidemiologic risk factors for tuberculosis exposure.

Recent findings

Tuberculous bacilli, formerly thought to exist latently only in pulmonary granulomas, are now known reside dormant in nonpulmonary organs. Kidney and liver grafts are thus vectors for donor transmitted MTB disease. Donors with elevated risk for latent MTB disease can be identified with tuberculin skin testing or IFN-γ release assay screening in combination with a thorough history to identify risk factors for latent disease.

Living donors with an elevated risk for prior MTB exposure provide an opportunity to treat latent disease prior to organ procurement and reduce the risk of donor transmitted disease and secondary morbidity. Improved identification of these high-risk donors can reduce both the incidence of posttransplant MTB disease and the risk of allograft compromise associated with treatment of latent and active disease in posttransplant recipients.
Concomitant Benefits of an Auricular Acupressure Intervention for Women With Cancer on Family Caregiver Sleep Quality
Authors: Wu Ting-Ting , Pan Hung-Wei , Kuo Hui-Chen , Chen San-Nung , Creedy Debra K. , Tsao Ying
Published: July 2020

Background

Sleep disturbance is a frequent and significant problem challenge for family caregivers of patients with cancer. A previously tested 6-week auricular acupressure intervention was found to reduce symptom burden in women with cancer. It is possible that such an intervention has a concomitant benefit for family caregivers.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to explore if the effects of an auricular acupressure intervention on major symptoms experienced by women with ovarian cancer improves the sleep quality of family caregivers.

Methods

A quasi-randomized controlled trial with a repeated-measures design was used. Family caregivers (n = 68) of cancer patients were recruited and completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index on 4 occasions. Demographic information included age, sex, duration of caring role, and relationship to the patient.

Results

Family members with a longer duration of caregiving reported more sleep disturbance at baseline. As the symptom burden of treated women decreased, their family caregivers reported improved Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores at 4 weeks (time 2; Cohen d = 1.075) and 6 weeks (time 3; Cohen d = 1.022).

Conclusions

Reducing the symptom burden of patients with cancer can improve the sleep quality of family caregivers.

Implications for Practice

Auricular acupressure is a noninvasive and easy-to-apply intervention that can be applied by caregivers to assist their family member. Nursing staff can implement and test the acupressure intervention into their clinical practice and better support family-based strategies and interventions. Further studies with larger samples are needed to confirm our findings.
Sports Ultrasound Training During a Pandemic
Authors: Schroeder Allison N. , Hall Mederic M. , Kruse Ryan C.
Published: July 2020

“Hands-on” teaching is an important part of sports ultrasound (US) education in sports medicine fellowships. However, physical distancing requirements during a global pandemic have resulted in cancellation and/or postponement of “in-person” educational sessions, ultrasound conferences, and clinical diagnostic and interventional ultrasound cases that enhance ultrasound training. For “hands-on” sports ultrasound teaching to continue during these uncertain times, the educational model must be adapted. The use of virtual meeting platforms to display ultrasound images is possible, and this not only allows for instructor demonstration but also gives the instructor an opportunity to observe the learner scanning and provide direct feedback in real-time. Moving forward, virtual ultrasound teaching methods will likely continue to be of educational value, as they provide increased access to individualized instruction from skilled instructors and eliminate travel time and cost of conferences and instructional sessions.
Changes to Rehabilitation Service Delivery and the Associated Physician Perspectives During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yu Jaime C. , McIntyre McKyla , Dow Heather , Robinson Lawrence , Winston Paul
Published: July 2020

This project aimed to determine the impact of and needs from physician members of the Canadian Association of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation during the early response to the COVID-19 global pandemic. The purpose of this project was to develop a framework for addressing the pandemic tailored to the needs of Canadian physiatrists. A convergent mixed-methods design was used for this needs assessment quality project. A total of 136 responses were obtained with an overall response rate of 34%. Three major themes were identified relating to the impact of COVID-19 on physicians: (1) changes to direct patient care, (2) changes to nonclinical aspects of physician’s practices, and (3) impacts on personal and family well-being. Three requests for Canadian Association of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation support during the pandemic were as follows: (1) collaborative sharing of information and resources, (2) advocacy for both patients and providers, and (3) avenues for social connection and wellness. This project provided insight into the impact of COVID-19 and current needs of Canadian Association of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation physicians. The results were used to develop a solutions framework including guidance on use of virtual care and holding education webinars on high-yield topics. Next steps include a follow-up survey on change in preparedness and member satisfaction with the Canadian Association of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation response.
The Role of FLIR ONE Thermography in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Dhatt Saroop , Krauss Emily M. , Winston Paul
Published: July 2020

Complex regional pain syndrome remains a debated syndrome characterized by symptoms and signs, including pain, sensory disturbances, thermal asymmetry, edema, and motor impairments. Thermography is a tool that assesses skin surface temperature distribution. Current literature focuses on the role of thermography for diagnostic purposes; however, its role in monitoring the response to treatment in complex regional pain syndrome is unclear. We present a case series of four patients with complex regional pain syndrome where a FLIR ONE thermal imaging camera (FLIR Systems, Inc, Wilsonville, OR) was used to assist in the diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome, capture the effects of diagnostic nerve blocks to evaluate a peripheral nerve contribution to complex regional pain syndrome, as well as monitor and assess treatment efficacy with prednisone and surgery. Four patients were screened by clinical assessment to meet the Budapest Criteria. The thermal images revealed improvement in the temperature distribution after therapeutic intervention. We also noted temporary but immediate changes on thermal imaging with diagnostic nerve blocks. Our cases suggest that the FLIR ONE thermal imaging camera has the potential to be an accessible monitoring tool to assist in diagnosis and assess treatment efficacy in complex regional pain syndrome over time.
Electrodiagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Review of Existing Guidelines
Authors: de Carvalho Mamede
Published: July 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by degeneration of upper motor neurons in the motor cortex and lower motor neurons (LMN) in the brainstem and spinal cord, resulting in a progressive functional impairment. Neurophysiology is a diagnostic tool to detect dysfunction of upper motor neurons and LMN, even when the changes are subclinical. Electromyography is the standard neurophysiological investigation to detect LMN changes, which is essential to exclude mimicking disorders and attain early diagnosis. Recently, Awaji criteria was proposed to support ALS diagnosis, in these criteria fasciculation potentials associated with neurogenic motor unit potentials represents a sufficient marker of LMN involvement, in each muscle. Many studies have confirmed that Awaji criteria are more sensitive, permitting earlier diagnosis without loss of specificity when compared with the revised El Escorial criteria. Fasciculations are easily detected by ultrasound; increasingly, this technique has been used to diagnose ALS, combined with electromyography. This combination can increase diagnostic accuracy. Many techniques for estimating the number of motor units have been proposed, they are useful to quantify LMN loss. Electrical impedance myography is an emerging technique with great potential to monitor ALS progression. Neurophysiological investigation of upper motor neuron dysfunction is difficult in ALS, detecting decreased cortical inhibition by threshold tracking cortical magnetic stimulation is a promising method, which needs to be validated in different centers.
Lists of names of prokaryotic Candidatus taxa
Authors: Oren Aharon , Garrity George M. , Parker Charles T. , Chuvochina Maria , Trujillo Martha E.
Published: July 2020

We here present annotated lists of names ofCandidatustaxa of prokaryotes with ranks between subspecies and class, proposed between the mid-1990s, when the provisional status ofCandidatustaxa was first established, and the end of 2018. Where necessary, corrected names are proposed that comply with the current provisions of the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes and its Orthography appendix. These lists, as well as updated lists of newly published names ofCandidatustaxa with additions and corrections to the current lists to be published periodically in theInternational Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology, may serve as the basis for the valid publication of theCandidatusnames if and when the current proposals to expand the type material for naming of prokaryotes to also include gene sequences of yet-uncultivated taxa is accepted by the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes.
Marinobacter changyiensis, sp. nov., isolated from offshore sediment
Authors: Li Guangyu , Wang Shanshan , Gai Yingbao , Liu Xiupian , Lai Qiliang , Shao Zongze
Published: July 2020

An aerobic, Gram-stain-negative bacterium, designated CLL7-20T, was isolated from a marine sediment sample from offshore of Changyi, Shandong Province, China. Cells of strain CLL7-20T were rod-shaped, motile with one or more polar flagella, and grew optimally at pH 7.0, at 28 °C and with 3 % (w/v) NaCl. The principal fatty acids of strain CLL7-20T were C16 : 0 and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
ω7c/C16 : 1
ω6c). The main polar lipids of strain CLL7-20T were phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG) and an unidentified aminolipid (AL). Strain CLL7-20T contained Q-9 as the major respiratory quinone. The G+C content of its genomic DNA was 56.2 mol%. Phylogenetically, strain CLL7-20T branched within the genus

Marinobacter

, with

M. daqiaonensis

YCSA40T being its closest phylogenetic relative (96.7 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity), followed by

M. sediminum

R65T (96.6 %). Average nucleotide identity and in silico DNA–DNA hybridization values between strain CLL7-20T and the closest related reference strains were 73.2% and 19.8 %, respectively. On the basis of its phenotypic, phylogenetic and chemotaxonomic characteristics, we suggest that strain CLL7-20T (=MCCC 1A14855T=KCTC 72664T) is the type strain of a novel species in the genus

Marinobacter

, for which the name Marinobacter changyiensis sp. nov. is proposed. Based on the genomic analysis, siderophore genes were found from strain CLL7-20T, which indicate its potential as a promising alternative to chemical fertilizers in iron-limitated environments such as saline soils.
Ningiella ruwaisensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a member of the family Alteromonadaceae isolated from marine water of the Arabian Gulf
Authors: Fotedar Rashmi , Caldwell Matthew E. , Sankaranarayanan Krithivasan , Al -Zeyara Aisha , Al-Malki Ameena , Kaul Ridhima , Al Marri Masoud , Al -Shamari Hamad S. , Lawson Paul A.
Published: July 2020

Strain B66T was isolated from a marine water sample collected at Al Ruwais, located on the northern tip of Qatar. Cells were Gram-stain-negative, strictly aerobic and short- rod-shaped with a polar flagellum. The isolate was able to grow at 15–45 °C (optimum, 30 °C), at pH 5–11 (optimum, pH 6.5–8) and with 0–6 % NaCl. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that strain B66T was affiliated with the family

Alteromonadaceae

, sharing the highest sequence similarities to the genera

Alteromonas

(93.7–95.4 %),

Aestuariibacter

(94.0–95.1 %),

Agaribacter

(93.3–93.7 %),

Glaciecola

(92.0–93.7 %), Marisendiminitalea (93.2–93.3 %) and

Planctobacterium

(92.9 %). In the phylogenetic trees, strain B66T demonstrated the novel organism formed a distinct lineage closely associated with

Aestuariibacter

and

Planctobacterium

. Major fatty acids were C16 : 0, summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
 ω7c/C16 : 1
 ω6c/iso-C15 : 0 2-OH and iso-C15 : 0 3-OH. The major respiratory quinone was ubiquinone-8 and the major polar lipids are phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine. The DNA G+C content derived from the genome was 43.2 mol%. Based on the phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, phylogenetic and genomic data, strain B66T is considered to represent a novel species and genus for which the name Ningiella ruwaisensis gen. nov., sp. nov., is proposed. The type strain is B66T (=QCC B003/17T=LMG 30288 T=CCUG 70703T).
Actinokineospora pegani sp. nov., an endophytic actinomycete isolated from the surface-sterilized root of Peganum harmala L.
Authors: Lei Yan-Juan , Xia Zhan-Feng , Luo Xiao-Xia , Zhang Li-Li
Published: July 2020

A novel Gram-positive, aerobic and motile endophytic actinomycete, designated TRM 65233T, was isolated from the root ofPeganum harmalaL. collected from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. The isolate had white aerial mycelium and brown substrate mycelium on Gause’s synthetic agar. Growth occurred at 10–40 °C, pH 6–9 with NaCl concentration of 0–6 % (w/v). Strain TRM 65233Tcontainedmeso-diaminopimelic acid as the diagnostic diamino acid in the cell-wall peptidoglycan. The whole-cell hydrolysates included glucose and galactose as the major whole-cell sugars. The menaquinones were MK-9 (H4) and MK-7. The major cellular fatty acids were iso-C16 : 0, iso-C15 : 0and anteiso-C17 : 0. The polar lipid profile consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phospholipids, phosphatidylinositol and one unidentified lipid. Strain TRM 65233Tshowed the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity toActinokineospora cianjurensisBTCC B-558T(98.13 %),Actinokineospora auranticolorIFO 16518T(98.06 %),Actinokineospora spheciospongiaeEG49T(97.99 %),Actinokineospora baliensisID03-0561T(97.97 %),Actinokineospora mzabensisPAL84T(97.95 %) andActinokineospora bangkokensis44EHWT(97.06 %). The isolate was distinguished from these phylogenetically related strains by digital DNA–DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity analyses and by a range of physiological and biochemical characteristics. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 72.6 mol%. On the basis of polyphasic taxonomic data, strain TRM 65233Trepresents a novel species of the genusActinokineospora, for which the nameActinokineospora peganisp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is TRM 65233T(KCTC 49342=CCTCC AA 2019050).
Mangrovibacterium lignilyticum sp. nov., a facultatively anaerobic lignin-degrading bacterium isolated from mangrove sediment
Authors: Sun Chao , Zeng Xiang , Lai Qiliang , Wang Zhaoshou , Shao Zongze
Published: July 2020

An alkali lignin-degrading, Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, non-motile and facultatively anaerobic bacterium, designated BM_7T, was isolated from mangrove sediment of the supralittoral zone in the Jiulong river estuary, PR China. The cells of strain BM_7T were 0.4–0.6 µm wide and 1.0–8.5 µm long. Oxidase and catalase activities were positive. Strain BM_7T could grow at 10–37 °C (optimum, 25–28 °C), at pH 6.0–8.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) and in the presence of 0.5–6 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 2%). Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain BM_7T belonged to the genus

Mangrovibacterium

of the family

Prolixibacteraceae

. It showed the highest similarity to

Mangrovibacterium diazotrophicum

JCM 19152T (96.8 %), followed by

Mangrovibacterium marinum

KCTC 42253T (96.1%). The values of average nucleotide identity and DNA–DNA hybridization were calculated as 76.9, 24.3 and 76.1, 17.4 % between strain BM_7T with

M. diazotrophicum

JCM 19152T and

M. marinum

KCTC 42253T, respectively. The major respiratory quinone of strain BM_7T was MK-7. The polar lipids were detected as phosphatidylethanolamine, three unidentified phospholipids and four unidentified aminolipids. The dominant fatty acids consisted of iso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0, C15 : 1
 ω6c, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH, C17 : 1
 ω6c, C17 : 0 3-OH and C17 : 0. The genome size of strain BM_7T is 5.6 Mb, with G+C content of 43.4 mol%. Based on the phylogenetic and phenotypic characteristics, strain BM_7T was considered to represent a novel species of the genus

Mangrovibacterium

, and the name Mangrovibacterium lignilyticum sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is BM_7T (=MCCC 1A15882T=KCTC 72696T).
Pontimicrobium aquaticum gen. nov., sp. nov., a bacterium in the family Flavobacteriaceae isolated from seawater
Authors: Janthra Thidarat , Baek Jihye , Kim Jong-Hwa , Yoon Jung-Hoon , Sukhoom Ampaitip , Kim Wonyong
Published: July 2020

A Gram-stain-negative, yellow-pigmented, non-spore-forming, non-motile, rod-shaped, catalase-positive, strictly aerobic bacterial strain, designated CAU 1491T, was isolated from seawater and its taxonomic position was examined using a polyphasic approach. Cells of strain CAU 1491T grew optimally at 30 °C, pH 7.5 and in 2.0 % (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence of CAU 1491T showed that it formed a distinct lineage within the family

Flavobacteriaceae

as a separate deep branch, with 97.0 % or lower sequence similarity to representatives of the genera

Lacinutrix

,

Gaetbulibacter

and

Aquibacter

. The major cellular fatty acids of strain CAU 1491T were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 1 G, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH and summed feature 3. The polar lipid pattern consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine and an unidentified phospholipid. The strain contained MK-6 as the sole respiratory quinone. Genome sequencing revealed that strain CAU 1491T has a genome size of 3.13 Mbp and a G+C content of 32.4 mol%. On the basis of the phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genomic data, strain CAU 1491T represents a new genus and species in the family

Flavobacteriaceae

for which the name Pontimicrobium aquaticum gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Pontimicrobium aquaticum is CAU 1491T (=KCTC 72003T=NBRC 113695T).
Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight MS for the accurate identification of Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli in the clinical microbiology laboratory
Authors: Wong Kendrew S. K. , Dhaliwal Suk , Bilawka Jennifer , Srigley Jocelyn A. , Champagne Sylvie , Romney Marc G. , Tilley Peter , Sadarangani Manish , Zlosnik James E. A. , Chilvers Mark A.
Published: July 2020

Introduction.

Burkholderia cepacia

complex (Bcc) bacteria, currently consisting of 23 closely related species, and

Burkholderia gladioli

, can cause serious and difficult-to-treat infections in people with cystic fibrosis. Identifying

Burkholderia

bacteria to the species level is considered important for understanding epidemiology and infection control, and predicting clinical outcomes. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight MS (MALDI-TOF) is a rapid method recently introduced in clinical laboratories for bacterial species-level identification. However, reports on the ability of MALDI-TOF to accurately identify Bcc to the species level are mixed.

Aim. The aim of this project was to evaluate the accuracy of MALDI-TOF using the Biotyper and VITEK MS systems in identifying isolates from 22 different Bcc species and

B. gladioli

compared to recA gene sequencing, which is considered the current gold standard for Bcc.

Methodology. To capture maximum intra-species variation, phylogenetic trees were constructed from concatenated multi-locus sequence typing alleles and clustered with a novel k-medoids approach. One hundred isolates representing 22 Bcc species, plus

B. gladioli

, were assessed for bacterial identifications using the two MALDI-TOF systems.

Results. At the genus level, 100 and 97.0 % of isolates were confidently identified as

Burkholderia

by the Biotyper and VITEK MS systems, respectively; moreover, 26.0 and 67.0 % of the isolates were correctly identified to the species level, respectively. In many, but not all, cases of species misidentification or failed identification, a representative library for that species was lacking.

Conclusion. Currently available MALDI-TOF systems frequently do not accurately identify Bcc bacteria to the species level.
Epidemiological and molecular characterization of a novel adenovirus of squirrel monkeys after fatal infection during immunosuppression
Authors: Rogers Donna L. , Ruiz Julio C. , Baze Wallace B. , McClure Gloria B. , Smith Carolyn , Urbanowski Ricky , Boston Theresa , Simmons Joe H. , Williams Lawrence , Abee Christian R. , Vanchiere John A.
Published: July 2020

Adenoviruses are a frequent cause of acute upper respiratory tract infections that can also cause disseminated disease in immunosuppressed patients. We identified a novel adenovirus, squirrel monkey adenovirus 1 (SqMAdV-1), as the cause of fatal infection in an immunocompromised squirrel monkey (Saimiri boliviensis) at the Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research (KCCMR). Sequencing of SqMAdV-1 revealed that it is most closely related (80.4 % pairwise nucleotide identity) to the titi monkey (Plecturocebus cupreus) adenovirus (TMAdV). Although identified in the titi monkey, TMAdV is highly lethal in these monkeys, and they are not thought to be the natural host. While SqMAdV-1 is similar to other primate adenoviruses in size and genomic characteristics, a nucleotide polymorphism at the expected stop codon of the DNA polymerase gene results in a 126 amino acid extension at the carboxy terminus, a feature not previously observed among other primate adenoviruses. PCR testing and partial sequencing of 95 archived faecal samples from other squirrel monkeys (Saimiri boliviensis and Saimiri sciureus) housed at the KCCMR revealed the presence of three distinct, and apparently endemic species of adenoviruses. A grouping of ten squirrel monkey adenovirus variants has high similarity to SqMAdV-1. A single adenovirus variant (designated SqMAdV-3), detected in five monkeys, has similarity to tufted capuchin (Sapajus apella) adenoviruses. The largest group of adenovirus variants detected (designated SqMAdV-2.0–2.16) has very high similarity (93–99 %) to the TMAdV, suggesting that squirrel monkeys may be the natural host of the TMAdV.
Inkjet based 3D Printing of bespoke medical devices that resist bacterial biofilm formation
Authors: He Yinfeng , Begines Belen , Luckett Jeni , Dubern Jean-Frédéric , Hook Andrew L. , Prina Elisabetta , Rose Felicity R.A.J. , Tuck Christopher J. , Hague Richard J.M. , Irvine Derek J. , Williams Paul , Alexander Morgan R. , Wildman Ricky D.
Published: July 2020

We demonstrate the formulation of advanced functional 3D printing inks that prevent the formation of bacterial biofilms in vivo. Starting from polymer libraries, we show that a biofilm resistant object can be 3D printed with the potential for shape and cell instructive function to be selected independently. When tested in vivo, the candidate materials not only resisted bacterial attachment but drove the recruitment of host defences in order to clear infection. To exemplify our approach, we manufacture a finger prosthetic and demonstrate that it resists biofilm formation – a cell instructive function that can prevent the development of infection during surgical implantation. More widely, cell instructive behaviours can be ‘dialled up’ from available libraries and may include in the future such diverse functions as the modulation of immune response and the direction of stem cell fate.
Selective Nanotherapeutic Targeting of the Neutrophil Subset Mediating Inflammatory Injury
Authors: Bachmaier Kurt , Stuart Andrew , Hong Zhigang , Tsukasaki Yoshikazu , Singh Abhalaxmi , Chakraborty Sreeparna , Mukhopadhyay Amitabha , Gao Xiaopei , Maienschein-Cline Mark , Kanteti Prasad , Rehman Jalees , Malik Asrar B.
Published: July 2020

Inflammatory tissue injury such as acute lung injury (ALI) is a disorder that leads to respiratory failure, a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Excessive neutrophil influx is a critical pathogenic factor in the development of ALI. Here, we identify the subset of neutrophils that is responsible for ALI and lethality in polymicrobial sepsis. The pro-inflammatory neutrophil subpopulation was characterized by its unique ability to endocytose albumin nanoparticles (ANP), upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines as well as the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in models of endotoxemia and septicemia. ANP delivery of the drug piceatannol, a spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) inhibitor, to the susceptible subset of neutrophils, prevented ALI and mortality in mice subjected to polymicrobial infection. Targeted inhibition of Syk in ANP-susceptible neutrophils had no detrimental effect on neutrophil-dependent host defense because the subset of ANPlowneutrophils effectively controlled polymicrobial infection. The results show that neutrophil heterogeneity can be leveraged therapeutically to prevent ALI without compromising host defense.
Non-Adherence Tree Analysis (NATA) - an adherence improvement framework: a COVID-19 case study
Authors: Edifor Ernest , Brown Regina , Smith Paul , Kossik Rick
Published: July 2020

Poor adherence to medication is a global phenomenon that has received a significant amount of research attention yet remains largely unsolved. Medication non-adherence can blur drug efficacy results in clinical trials, lead to substantial financial losses, increase the risk of relapse and hospitalisation, or lead to death. The most common methods measuring adherence are post-treatment measures; that is, adherence is usually measured after the treatment has begun. What the authors are proposing in this multidisciplinary study is a technique for analysing the factors that can cause non-adherence before or during medication treatment.

Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), allows system analysts to determine how combinations of simple faults of a system can propagate to cause a total system failure. Monte Carlo simulation is a mathematical algorithm that depends heavily on repeated random sampling to predict the behaviour of a system. In this study, the authors propose the use of Non-Adherence Tree Analysis (NATA), based on the FTA and Monte Carlo simulation techniques, to improve adherence. Firstly, the non-adherence factors of a medication treatment lifecycle are translated into what is referred to as a Non-Adherence Tree (NAT). Secondly, the NAT is coded into a format that is translated into the GoldSim software for performing dynamic system modelling and analysis using Monte Carlo. Finally, the GoldSim model is simulated and analysed to predict the behaviour of the NAT.

This study produces a framework for improving adherence by analysing social and non-social adherence barriers. The results reveal that the biggest factor that could contribute to non-adherence to a COVID-19 treatment is a therapy-related factor (the side effects of the medication). This is closely followed by a condition-related factor (asymptomatic nature of the disease) then patient-related factors (forgetfulness and other causes). With this information, clinicians can implement relevant measures and allocate resources appropriately to minimise non-adherence.
Do Men and Women “Lockdown” Differently? An Examination of Panama’s COVID-19 Sex-Segregated Social Distancing Policy
Authors: Woskie Liana R. , Wenham Clare
Published: July 2020

Mobility enables individuals to generate income and is a key input for empowerment and personal autonomy. Curtailment of aggregate social mobility - through policies such as: social distancing recommendations, shelter in place orders and state-enforced lockdowns - has become a primary strategy to address COVID-19 to limit social contact and reduce disease transmission. In this context, a small number of countries have instituted gender or sex-segregated mobility policies (Panama, Peru, and Bogota, Colombia). Through a retrospective analysis of global geographic positioning (GPS) data, this study presents an overview of aggregate mobility in Panama following the country’s implementation of a sex-segregated social distancing policy. Panama was selected as the nationwide sex-segregated policy was enforced throughout the lockdown period. The paper looks at mobility trends on female- and male-sex mobility days, examining differences by volume of movement and type of community locations visited as compared to pre-COVID trends. We find lower visits to all community location categories on female-mobility days. However, we found no significant difference in visits to “workplace” locations on male- v. female-mobility days. The paper discusses the implications of these findings in three areas: (1) Informal burden of labor and social reproduction, (2) Implications for women’s autonomy and safety in the home, and (3) Women’s economic empowerment. In addition, it raises open ethical questions regarding gender identity in COVID-19 policies.
Related Topics of a Novel TCR-based Cancer Detection Approach
Authors: Beshnova Daria , Li Bo
Published: July 2020

We developed a novel algorithm (DeepCAT) to perform de novo detection of cancer associated TCRs, which is based on a convolutional neural network (CNN) model. In this manuscript, we compared its performance with a similar non-deep learning approach, TCRboost, and demonstrated that DeepCAT achieved better prediction accuracy when used to distinguish cancer from non-cancer individuals. Further, although DeepCAT was trained for CDR3s with different lengths, we showed that the combined outcome does not bias the prediction accuracy. Finally, human immune repertoire is affected by many common inflammatory conditions, and our analysis demonstrated that DeepCAT predictions are minimally affected by these factors.