bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Síndrome de Graham-Little-Piccardi-Lassueur: relato de caso
Authors: Madureira Lucas da Silva , Gatti Rafael Figueiredo , Guzzo Giovanna , Borges Júnior Márcio Custódio , Souza Alessandra Martins de , Antonio João Roberto
Published: January 2021

A Síndrome de Graham-Little-Piccardi-Lassueur é uma variante rara do líquen plano pilar cuja etiologia é desconhecida. É caracterizada pela tríade alopécia cicatricial progressiva de couro cabeludo, alopécia não cicatricial de axilas e púbis e erupção liquenóide folicular. Relatamos caso de paciente feminina de 74 anos com quadro clássico de rarefação pilosa em região frontotemporal direita, hipotricose axilar e genital e queratose pilar em região lombar e flancos.
Scène de conflits entre exploration, préservation et patrimonialisation de la nature:le cas de Chapada Gaúcha (Minas Gerais/Brésil)
Authors: Morère Lucie , Campos Damiana , Pereira Doralice
Published: January 2021

Chapada Gaúcha est une petite ville rurale localisée dans le nord du Minas Gerais (Brésil). Elle est la scène de confrontations de représentations complètement opposées de la nature. Le município (commune) accueille à la fois le siège des grandes coopératives agricoles exportatrices de monocultures (soja, graines de graminées, bétail) ; le siège du Parc National Grande Sertão-Veredas ; mais il s’agit aussi d’un territoire moteur de la Mosaïque d’aires protégées Sertão Veredas-Peruaçu. Cette situation est créatrice de contradictions à l’échelle de la ville et de conflits à l’échelle du município. Cette Mosaïque ouvre des espaces de dialogue et articule des activités de développement telles que l’extractivisme et le tourisme communautaire, mais cela ne permet pas complètement d’éliminer les usages prédateurs de l’environnement et les inégalités sociale.
Fish communities and associated habitat variables in the upper Subansiri River of Arunachal Pradesh, eastern Himalaya, India
Authors: Satpathy Sutanu , Sivakumar Kuppusamy , Johnson Jeyaraj Antony
Published: January 2021

Ecological information on the rivers of eastern Himalaya, specifically the state of Arunachal Pradesh is not studied well.  The present study describes fish assemblage patterns and deriving relationships between local habitat variables in the upper reaches of Subansiri River, Arunachal Pradesh.  This study was carried out during October to November 2014 and February to March 2015.  A total of 26 fish species belonging to eight families were recorded, in which eight species are endemic to the eastern Himalayan region.  Fish species richness varied from two to 18 species in the upper reaches of Subansiri River and high species diversity was recorded in Sigin Stream (H’=2.76).  Based on the seven habitat variables (water velocity, depth, channel width, percentage of substrate composition, percentage of riparian vegetation, altitude, and water temperature) then streams were categorized into lower-order and higher-order streams using principal component analysis (PCA).  The site-wise fish abundance data along with habitat variable information was then subjected to the canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) for testing the association of habitat variables on fish abundance.  The CCA results revealed that the abundance of large-size barbs, Neolissochilus hexagonolepis, N. nigrovittatus, Schizothorax progastus, and S. richardsonii were strongly associated with high altitude, water velocity, rich dissolved oxygen, and good riparian vegetation.  On the other hand, Channa gachua, Botia rostrata, Danio rerio, Devario aequipinnatus, and Garra nasuta showed strong association with warm water streams with more conductivity.
The Remarkable Robustness of Surrogate Gradient Learning for Instilling Complex Function in Spiking Neural Networks
Authors: Zenke Friedemann , Vogels Tim P.
Published: January 2021

Brains process information in spiking neural networks. Their intricate connections shape the diverse functions these networks perform. Yet how network connectivity relates to function is poorly understood, and the functional capabilities of models of spiking networks are still rudimentary. The lack of both theoretical insight and practical algorithms to find the necessary connectivity poses a major impediment to both studying information processing in the brain and building efficient neuromorphic hardware systems. The training algorithms that solve this problem for artificial neural networks typically rely on gradient descent. But doing so in spiking networks has remained challenging due to the nondifferentiable nonlinearity of spikes. To avoid this issue, one can employ surrogate gradients to discover the required connectivity. However, the choice of a surrogate is not unique, raising the question of how its implementation influences the effectiveness of the method. Here, we use numerical simulations to systematically study how essential design parameters of surrogate gradients affect learning performance on a range of classification problems. We show that surrogate gradient learning is robust to different shapes of underlying surrogate derivatives, but the choice of the derivative's scale can substantially affect learning performance. When we combine surrogate gradients with suitable activity regularization techniques, spiking networks perform robust information processing at the sparse activity limit. Our study provides a systematic account of the remarkable robustness of surrogate gradient learning and serves as a practical guide to model functional spiking neural networks.
Maternal care and secretive behaviour of neonates in the highly social lizard Liolaemus leopardinus (Squamata: Liolaemidae) from the central Chilean Andes may relate to size-specific bird predation
Authors: Santoyo-Brito Enrique , Perea-Fox Susana , Núñez Herman , Fox Stanley F.
Published: January 2021

Predation prompts the evolution of antipredator traits, molds behaviour, and can lead to the evolution of parental care. We investigated parental care and predator-avoidance behaviour of neonates in the social lizard Liolaemus leopardinus. We used clay models to quantify bird predation pressure on L. leopardinus. Predation was significantly greater on small models and models in open habitat. Late-term pregnant females left their social groups on rock outcrops and gave birth in solitary underneath flat rocks in vegetated microhabitat. Mothers stayed with their litters inside natal chambers for at least 24 h and when they left, sealed the neonates inside. Mothers remained close to their natal chamber and neonates when neonates emerged. Neonates and young yearlings moved significantly less and occupied vegetated microhabitat significantly more than older age classes. We suggest that the maternal behaviour and secretive behaviour of neonates may be related to the heavy avian predation on neonates.
A revision of the climbing kalanchoes (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae) of Madagascar including the description of Kalanchoe sect. Invasores and K. ser. Vilana
Authors: SHTEIN RONEN , SMITH GIDEON F.
Published: January 2021

The taxonomy and nomenclature of the species of Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae) with comparatively thin, weak, scrambling stems are reviewed and discussed. This group of climbers is endemic to Madagascar, the present-day and probable historic centre of species diversity of Kalanchoe. Bar one species, K. schizophylla, the Madagascan climbing kalanchoes likely represent a monophyletic group. It is shown that this monophyletic group consists of eight taxa: K. beauverdii with three varieties (one of which is newly described), K. costantinii with two varieties (one of which is newly described), K. guignardii with two varieties (one of which is newly described), and K. scandens. Where required, the typification of some of the names previously published in the group is clarified, including through epi- and neotypification. The following new names are published here: K. sect. Invasores in K. subg. Bryophyllum, which includes the climbing kalanchoes in K. ser. Vilana, also newly described, as well as K. beauverdii var. pertinax, K. costantinii var. unguifera, and K. guignardii var. schistosepala. The similiarities between K. schizophylla and representatives of the distantly related K. ser. Vilana are restricted to their general climbing habit. They occupy unrelated positions within K. subg. Bryophyllum, occur in different types of habitat, and generally use different vegetative structures to climb into plants with which they grow socially.
Amanita vladimirii (Amanitaceae, Agaricales), a new European species in section Vaginatae
Authors: ŠEVČÍKOVÁ HANA , HANSS JEAN-MICHEL , MOREAU PIERRE-ARTHUR
Published: January 2021

Amanita vladimirii, a new species in sect. Vaginatae, is described and illustrated based on collections from the Czech Republic and France. The distinctive sequences of the LSU, ITS and tef1-α genetic markers, support the status of A. vladimirii as a new species. Amanita vladimirii is characterised by a greyish pileus striate at margin, a whitish stipe; and a relatively thin, but firm, membranous volva which is externally white with brownish yellow tinges where touched and internally is white-beige or greyish beige. Microscopically, the universal veil is composed of 3 layers; globose basidiospores; a ramose subhymenium; lamellar trama reduced to a mediostratum composed of parallel elements and a pileipellis without a differentiated subpellis.
Reinstatement of Aloe davyana var. subolifera (Asphodelaceae subfam. Alooideae), a distinctive variety of an endemic South African aloe
Authors: SMITH GIDEON F. , KLOPPER RONELL R. , CROUCH NEIL R. , FIGUEIREDO ESTRELA
Published: January 2021

Following the reinstatement of Aloe davyana Schönland (1905: 288) (Fig. 1A) as an accepted taxon at the rank of species, rather than at that of variety under A. greatheadii Schönland (1904: 121) (Smith et al. 2020), we here reinstate A. davyana var. subolifera Groenewald (1939: t. 732). Aloe davyana var. subolifera was accepted by all aloe researchers until it was placed in the synonymy of a broadened concept of A. greatheadii var. davyana (Schönl.) Glen & Hardy (1987: 490), a view with which we do not agree.
CeO2 Nanocrystal Decorated TiO2 Nanobelt with Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Ji Yanchen , Song Guoxin , Yang Ruiqi , Ding Longhua , Wang Aizhu , Ren Na , Zhang Jian , Yu Xin
Published: January 2021

In this work, CeO2 nanocrystal-decorated TiO2 nanobelt for forming a CeO2@TiO2 heterostructure. CeO2 plays a dual role in improving photocatalytic activity, not only by promoting the separation and transfer of photogenerated charge
carriers, but also by increasing visible light absorption of the photocatalyst as a photosensitizer. The as-prepared CeO2@TiO2 heterostructure demonstrates the performance of organic degradation and H2 production (about 17 μmol/h/g, which is about
2.5 times higher than that of pure TiO2 nanobelts). Our work provides a facile and controllable synthesis method for high performance photocatalyst, which will have potential applications in synthesis clean/solar fuel, and photocatalytic water treatment.
Competitive Adsorption on Nanomaterials for Human Papillomavirus 16 L1 Protein Sensitive Detection
Authors: Zhu Li , Zhao Yu , Yao Shangchen , Xu Mingzhe , Yin Lihui
Published: January 2021

Human papillomavirus (HPV) L1 protein is a biomarker of HPV infection. The identification of HPV L1 protein provides valuable information regarding the viral infection status, reflect the status of HPV virus replication in cervical cells, and help understand cervical lesions Fade and
progress. Graphene oxide is an important nanomaterial. Owing to the optical properties of graphene oxide (GO) itself and the interaction between GO and HPV16 L1 nucleic acid aptamer, we established a method for quantitative detection of HPV16 L1 protein by UV absorption spectrophotometry.
The recovery rate of the method is 87%–102%, and the limit of detection is 2 pg/mL. We analyzed the HPV16 L1 protein quantitatively in clinical samples by adopting this method. The current method is simple and has promising reliability and profound sensitivity.
Uptake and Transport Mechanisms of Ginkgolide B Niosomal Composite Drug Through the Blood-Brain Barrier
Authors: Zhou Juntong , Wu Xiao , Ma Yuezhu , Wang Zhenpeng , Huo Qing
Published: January 2021

Cerebrovascular and functional neurological lesions are the major disorders threatening human health and quality of life. The presence of the blood-brain barrier seriously affects the distribution and efficacy of various drugs in the brain. Ginkgolide B (GB) and Puerarin (Pue) are active
pharmaceutical ingredients for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Here, we have developed a novel strategy to construct a GB-Pue niosomal composite drug. The in vitro cytology study of the niosomal composite drug showed that 20 mmol/L glutamate resulted in a mortality of 50–60%
in the SHSY-5Y cells, while 30 μmol/L niosomal composite drug resulted in a survival rate of 95.2% in the SHSY-5Y cells with a maximum uptake value of 3.5 μg/mg and a peak uptake time at 2 hr. The monolayer cells reached a maximum transepithelial/endothelial electrical
resistance (TEER) value of 626 Ω*cm2 at 36 hr in culture, and the cellular integrity was negatively correlated with the amount of drug accumulated in the cells. The accumulated GB and Pue in cells reached 86.53% and 76.49%, respectively. The 30 μmol/L composite drug
preparation provided a higher cell survival rate in the glutamate (Glu) injured cells compared to the single drug preparations. Therefore, the composite preparation of the two drugs generated a synergistic effect, meeting the requirement for a combined use. The cell transmembrane transport
experiments demonstrated that the pharmaceutical preparations traversed the blood-brain barrier through the active transport of cells.
Understanding Older Adults’ Perception and Usage of Indoor Lighting in Independent Senior Living
Authors: Kim Daejin , Chang Carl , Margrett Jennifer
Published: January 2021

The main purpose of this research is to examine the lighting condition and residents’ perception of lighting in a senior retirement community in order to understand various environmental issues related to lighting. Also, this research aims to suggest a new lighting solution to compensate for older adults’ vision impairment and challenges at home for a successful aging place. In the normal aging process, more than 30% of older adults have a vision impairment, which negatively affects health and well-being of older adults such as limited activities, falling, loneliness, depression, anxiety, and a sense of control. Via a mixed method study design, residents in senior living communities were asked to describe the adequacy of light levels and specific tasks and needs related to lighting at their home. In addition to the survey and interview, indoor lighting assessments were conducted during the in-home session. The research findings highlighted older adults’ experience and perception of lighting in their homes. Paired-sample t test indicated that there were statistically significant differences in light levels between normal conditions and full capacity conditions in all spaces. In order to address various challenges which older adults have been experiencing in their home for a long time, this research suggests new smart lighting platform which provides a proper level of illumination in older adult’s homes. Such a smart platform is proactive and can dynamically adjust the smart devices or lighting fixtures in situ, while older adults are performing certain tasks.
Electrically Doped Nanoscale Devices Using First-Principle Approach: A Comprehensive Survey
Authors: Dey Debarati , De Debashis , Ahmadian Ali , Ghaemi Ferial , Senu Norazak
Published: January 2021

Doping is the key feature in semiconductor device fabrication. Many strategies have been discovered for controlling doping in the area of semiconductor physics during the past few decades. Electrical doping is a promising strategy that is used for effective tuning of the charge populations, electronic properties, and transmission properties. This doping process reduces the risk of high temperature, contamination of foreign particles. Significant experimental and theoretical efforts are demonstrated to study the characteristics of electrical doping during the past few decades. In this article, we first briefly review the historical roadmap of electrical doping. Secondly, we will discuss electrical doping at the molecular level. Thus, we will review some experimental works at the molecular level along with we review a variety of research works that are performed based on electrical doping. Then we figure out importance of electrical doping and its importance. Furthermore, we describe the methods of electrical doping. Finally, we conclude with a brief comparative study between electrical and conventional doping methods.
Photoluminescence and Boosting Electron–Phonon Coupling in CdS Nanowires with Variable Sn(IV) Dopant Concentration
Authors: Peng Yuehua , Luo Yuan , Zhou Weichang , Zhong Xuying , Yin Yanling , Tang Dongsheng , Zou Bingsuo
Published: January 2021

High-quality Sn(IV)-doped CdS nanowires were synthesized by a thermal evaporation route. Both XRD and Raman scattering spectrum confirmed the doping effect. The room temperature photoluminescence (PL) demonstrated that both near bandgap emission and discrete trapped-state emission appeared simultaneously and significantly, which were attributed to the strong exciton trapping by impurities and electron–phonon coupling during the light transportation. The PL intensity ratio of near bandgap emission to trapped-state emission could be tune via doped Sn(IV) concentration in the CdS nanowires. It is interesting that the trapped-state emission shows well separated peaks with the assistance of 1LO, 2LO, 4LO phonons, demonstrating the boosting electron–phonon coupling in these doped CdS nanowires. The influence of Sn(IV) dopant is further revealed by PL lifetime decay profile. The optical micro-cavity also plays an important role on this emission process. Our results will be helpful to the understanding of doping modulated carrier interaction, trapping and recombination in one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures.
Placenta percreta after Strassman metroplasty of complete bicornuate uterus: a case report
Authors: Zhang Chengyan , Wang Xiaoxin , Jiang Haili , Hou Lei , Zou Liying
Published: January 2021

Background

A bicornuate uterus often results in infertility. While reconstructive procedures may facilitate pregnancy, spontaneous abortion or serious pregnancy complications may occur. We present a case of a bicornuate uterus with spontaneous conception after Strassman metroplasty; however, life-threatening complications during pregnancy occurred.

Case presentation

: A 38-year-old woman with a history of infertility presented for prenatal care at 6 weeks of gestation. She had conceived spontaneously after four failed in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) procedures, Strassman metroplasty for a complete bicornuate uterus, and two postoperative IVF-ET pregnancies that ended in embryo arrest. This pregnancy was uneventful until the patient presented with massive vaginal bleeding at 28 weeks of gestation and was diagnosed with placenta previa and placenta percreta. Bleeding was controlled after emergency Caesarean section and delivery of a healthy neonate. However, severe adhesions were noted as well as a rupture along the metroplasty scar. Two days later, on removal of the intrauterine gauze packing, severe hemorrhage resumed, and the uterus did not respond to oxytocin, hemabate, or carbetocin. Emergency hysterectomy was required.

Conclusions

Reconstructive surgical procedures for complete bicornuate uterus may allow patients to achieve spontaneous pregnancies. However, potential intrapartum complications include placenta implantation and postpartum hemorrhage, and the latter may be exacerbated as the uterus does not contract or respond to oxytocin or prostaglandin drugs. Patients should be counseled on the risks associated with pregnancy after Strassman metroplasty, and clinicians must be aware of potential severe complications.
Prevalence and its associated factors of depressive symptoms among Chinese college students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yu Mingli , Tian Fangqiong , Cui Qi , Wu Hui
Published: January 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a mental health crisis around the world. The psychological health of college students also faces great challenges. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and the related factors of depressive symptoms among Chinese college students.

Methods

This online cross-sectional survey was conducted via Wenjuanxing platform from March 3–15, 2020 and received 1681 effective questionnaires. Each questionnaire contains the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale, the Multi-Dimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Herth Hope Index, and the self-designed items. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to determine the significantly associated factors of depressive symptoms.

Results

The prevalence of depressive symptoms among college students was 56.8%. Sleep problems (OR 2.678, 95%CI 2.094–3.424), family members’ going out (OR 1.775, 95%CI 1.089–2.894), perceived more stress for online education (OR 1.642, 95%CI 1.191–2.263), fear of COVID-19 (OR 1.450, 95%CI 1.121–1.876), influence on social interaction (OR 1.354, 95%CI 1.053–1.741) and higher grade (OR 1.378, 95%CI 1.046–1.816) were considered as risk factors of depressive symptoms. Perceived social support (OR 0.354, 95%CI 0.259–0.484), hope (OR 0.052, 95%CI 0.034–0.080), female (OR:0.557, 95%CI 0.427–0.725) and higher monthly disposable income (OR 0.666, 95%CI 0.447–0.993) were identified as protective factors against depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

There was a high prevalence of depressive symptoms among Chinese college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to find ways to alleviate the pressure and fear of college students, to provide them with more social support, and to help them adapt to the changes in learning style and lifestyle.
The increase in child obesity in Switzerland is mainly due to migration from Southern Europe – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Eiholzer Urs , Fritz Chris , Stephan Anika
Published: January 2021

Background

Novel height, weight and body mass index (BMI) references for children in Switzerland reveal an increase in BMI compared to former percentile curves. This trend may be the result of children with parents originating from Southern European countries having a higher risk of being overweight compared to their peers with parents of Swiss origin. We examined the association of generational, migration-related and socioeconomic factors on BMI in Switzerland and expect the results to lead to more targeted prevention programs.

Methods

From contemporary cross-sectional data, we calculated subgroup-specific BMI percentiles for origin. Results for children of Swiss origin were compared with historical BMI data from Zurich. We tested for the association of overweight and obesity with origin and compared the distributions of BMI percentile ranks. Logistic regression analyses were applied to predict probabilities of being overweight or obese by origin and the Swiss neighborhood index of socioeconomic position (SSEP).

Results

Compared to the BMI from two generations ago, the newly calculated BMI increased only slightly for children with both parents from Switzerland; 1.2% of these girls and 1.6% of these boys are obese. In the Swiss population, 13% of the children have parents from Southern Europe and the proportion of obesity is 57 and 42% in these boys and girls, respectively. Their BMI medians correspond to those of their parents’ countries of origin. For the probability of being overweight or obese, the SSEP differences are less important than the status of origin.

Conclusion

We identified children with both parents from Southern Europe as the main influence driving the increase in BMI in Switzerland over the past 50 years. A differentiated consideration of the proportions of various migrant groups within cross-sectional samples is essential when monitoring BMI. Ignoring fluctuations can lead to false conclusions.
A process evaluation of the improving wisely intervention: a peer-to-peer data intervention to reduce overuse in surgery
Authors: Fahim Christine , Bruhn William E. , Albertini John G. , Makary Marty A.
Published: January 2021

Background

The Improving Wisely intervention is a peer-to-peer audit and feedback intervention to reduce overuse of Mohs Micrographic Surgery (MMS). The objective of this study was to conduct a process evaluation to evaluate Mohs surgeons’ perceptions of the implementation quality and perceived impact of the Improving Wisely intervention.

Methods

Surgeons in the Improving Wisely intervention arm, comprised of members of the American College of Mohs Surgeons (ACMS) who co-led the intervention, were invited to complete surveys and key informant interviews. Participants described perceptions of implementation quality (evaluated via dose, quality of implementation, reach and participant responsiveness), perceived impact of the Improving Wisely intervention (evaluated on a 1–5 Likert and qualitatively), and barriers and facilitators to changing surgeons’ clinical practice patterns to reduce Mohs overuse.

Results

Seven hundred thirty-seven surgeons participated in the survey. 89% were supportive of the intervention. Participants agreed that the intervention would improve patient care and reduce the annual costs of Mohs surgery. Thirty surgeons participated in key informant interviews. 93% were interested in receiving additional data reports in the future. Participants recommended the reports be disseminated annually, that the reports be expanded to include appropriateness data, and that the intervention be extended to non ACMS members. Six themes identifying factors impacting potential MMS overuse were identified.

Conclusions

Participants were strongly supportive of the intervention. We present the template used to design and implement the Improving Wisely intervention and provide suggestions for specialty societies interested in leading similar quality improvement interventions among their members.
Change in the plasma proteome associated with canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS) in Thailand
Authors: Phochantachinda Sataporn , Chantong Boonrat , Reamtong Onrapak , Chatchaisak Duangthip
Published: January 2021

Background

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder found in senior dogs. Due to the lack of biological markers, CCDS is commonly underdiagnosed. The aim of this study was to identify potential plasma biomarkers using proteomics techniques and to increase our understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of the disease. Plasma amyloid beta 42 (Aβ42) has been seen to be a controversial biomarker for CCDS. Proteomics analysis was performed for protein identification and quantification.

Results

Within CCDS, ageing, and adult dogs, 87 proteins were identified specific to Canis spp. in the plasma samples. Of 87 proteins, 48 and 41 proteins were changed in the ageing and adult groups, respectively. Several distinctly expressed plasma proteins identified in CCDS were involved in complement and coagulation cascades and the apolipoprotein metabolism pathway. Plasma Aβ42 levels considerably overlapped within the CCDS and ageing groups. In the adult group, the Aβ42 level was low compared with that in the other groups. Nevertheless, plasma Aβ42 did not show a correlation with the Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Rating scale (CCDR) score in the CCDS group (p = 0.131, R2 = 0.261).

Conclusions

Our present findings suggest that plasma Aβ42 does not show potential for use as a diagnostic biomarker in CCDS. The nano-LC-MS/MS data revealed that the predictive underlying mechanism of CCDS was the co-occurrence of inflammation-mediated acute phase response proteins and complement and coagulation cascades that partly functioned by apolipoproteins and lipid metabolism. Some of the differentially expressed proteins may serve as potential predictor biomarkers along with Aβ42 in plasma for improved CCDS diagnosis. Further study in larger population-based cohort study is required in validation to define the correlation between protein expression and the pathogenesis of CCDS.
Molecular characterization of lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) emerged in Bangladesh reveals unique genetic features compared to contemporary field strains
Authors: Badhy Shukes Chandra , Chowdhury Mohammad Golam Azam , Settypalli Tirumala Bharani Kumar , Cattoli Giovanni , Lamien Charles Euloge , Fakir Mohammad Aflak Uddin , Akter Shamima , Osmani Mozaffar Goni , Talukdar Faisol , Begum Noorjahan , Khan Izhar Ahmed , Rashid Md Bazlur , Sadekuzzaman Mohammad
Published: January 2021

Background

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a contagious viral disease of cattle caused by lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV). LSD has recently spread in Asia following outbreaks in the Middle East and Europe. The disease emerged in Bangladesh in July 2019 in the Chattogram district, then rapidly spread throughout the entire country. We investigated six LSD outbreaks in Bangladesh to record the clinical signs and collect samples for diagnostic confirmation. Furthermore, we performed the molecular characterization of Bangladesh isolates, analyzing the full RPO30 and GPCR genes and the partial EEV glycoprotein gene.

Results

Clinical observations revealed common LSD clinical signs in the affected cattle. PCR and real-time PCR, showed the presence of the LSDV genome in samples from all six districts. Phylogenetic analysis and detailed inspection of multiple sequence alignments revealed that Bangladesh isolates differ from common LSDV field isolates encountered in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, as well as newly emerged LSDV variants in Russia and China. Instead, they were closely related to LSDV KSGP-0240, LSDV NI2490, and LSDV Kenya.

Conclusions

These results show the importance of continuous monitoring and characterization of circulating strains and the need to continually refine the strategies for differentiating vaccine strains from field viruses.
Tracking the time course of pathological patterns of lung injury in severe COVID-19
Authors: Mauad Thais , Duarte-Neto Amaro Nunes , da Silva Luiz Fernando Ferraz , de Oliveira Ellen Pierre , de Brito Jose Mara , do Nascimento Ellen Caroline Toledo , de Almeida Monteiro Renata Aparecida , Ferreira Juliana Carvalho , de Carvalho Carlos Roberto Ribeiro , do Nascimento Saldiva Paulo Hilário , Dolhnikoff Marisa
Published: January 2021

Background

Pulmonary involvement in COVID-19 is characterized pathologically by diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) and thrombosis, leading to the clinical picture of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. The direct action of SARS-CoV-2 in lung cells and the dysregulated immuno-coagulative pathways activated in ARDS influence pulmonary involvement in severe COVID, that might be modulated by disease duration and individual factors. In this study we assessed the proportions of different lung pathology patterns in severe COVID-19 patients along the disease evolution and individual characteristics.

Methods

We analysed lung tissue from 41 COVID-19 patients that died in the period March–June 2020 and were submitted to a minimally invasive autopsy. Eight pulmonary regions were sampled. Pulmonary pathologists analysed the H&E stained slides, performing semiquantitative scores on the following parameters: exudative, intermediate or advanced DAD, bronchopneumonia, alveolar haemorrhage, infarct (%), arteriolar (number) or capillary thrombosis (yes/no). Histopathological data were correlated with demographic-clinical variables and periods of symptoms-hospital stay.

Results

Patient´s age varied from 22 to 88 years (18f/23 m), with hospital admission varying from 0 to 40 days. All patients had different proportions of DAD in their biopsies. Ninety percent of the patients presented pulmonary microthrombosis. The proportion of exudative DAD was higher in the period 0–8 days of hospital admission till death, whereas advanced DAD was higher after 17 days of hospital admission. In the group of patients that died within eight days of hospital admission, elderly patients had less proportion of the exudative pattern and increased proportions of the intermediate patterns. Obese patients had lower proportion of advanced DAD pattern in their biopsies, and lower than patients with overweight. Clustering analysis showed that patterns of vascular lesions (microthrombosis, infarction) clustered together, but not the other patterns. The vascular pattern was not influenced by demographic or clinical parameters, including time of disease progression.

Conclusion

Patients with severe COVID-19 present different proportions of DAD patterns over time, with advanced DAD being more prevalent after 17 days, which seems to be influenced by age and weight. Vascular involvement is present in a large proportion of patients, occurs early in disease progression, and does not change over time.
Development of multivalent nanobodies blocking SARS-CoV-2 infection by targeting RBD of spike protein
Authors: Lu Qizhong , Zhang Zongliang , Li Hexian , Zhong Kunhong , Zhao Qin , Wang Zeng , Wu Zhiguo , Yang Donghui , Sun Shuang , Yang Nian , Zheng Meijun , Chen Qiang , Long Cheng , Guo Wenhao , Yang Hui , Nie Chunlai , Tong Aiping
Published: January 2021

Background

The outbreak and pandemic of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 caused significant threaten to global public health and economic consequences. It is extremely urgent that global people must take actions to develop safe and effective preventions and therapeutics. Nanobodies, which are derived from single‑chain camelid antibodies, had shown antiviral properties in various challenge viruses. In this study, multivalent nanobodies with high affinity blocking SARS-CoV-2 spike interaction with ACE2 protein were developed.

Results

Totally, four specific nanobodies against spike protein and its RBD domain were screened from a naïve VHH library. Among them, Nb91-hFc and Nb3-hFc demonstrated antiviral activity by neutralizing spike pseudotyped viruses in vitro. Subsequently, multivalent nanobodies were constructed to improve the neutralizing capacity. As a result, heterodimer nanobody Nb91-Nb3-hFc exhibited the strongest RBD-binding affinity and neutralizing ability against SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses with an IC50value at approximately 1.54 nM.

Conclusions

The present study indicated that naïve VHH library could be used as a potential resource for rapid acquisition and exploitation of antiviral nanobodies. Heterodimer nanobody Nb91-Nb3-hFc may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of COVID-19.
Density-dependence of nestling immune function and physiological condition in semi-precocial colonial bird: a cross-fostering experiment
Authors: Kamiński Maciej , Janiszewski Tomasz , Indykiewicz Piotr , Nowakowski Jacek J. , Kowalski Jarosław , Dulisz Beata , Minias Piotr
Published: January 2021

Background

Nesting in large aggregations provides several important advantages for colonially breeding birds. However, it also imposes certain costs, associated with facilitated pathogen transmission and social stress. The cost-benefit ratio is not similar for all the birds in a colony and it might be mediated by nest density. To investigate the influence of nest density on cell-mediated immune function and on physiological condition of nestlings, we arranged a cross-fostering experiment in three breeding colonies of black-headed gulls Chroicocephalus ridibundus. First, we exchanged eggs between plots of high and low nest density. Afterwards, we performed phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) skin test and we measured blood haemoglobin concentration in nearly 350 nestlings from experimental (exchanged) and control (non-exchanged) groups.

Results

We found that PHA response was lowest in high nest density control group, indicating that depressed immune function of offspring, likely caused by social stress, can be considered as a cost of colonial breeding. Contrastingly, body condition of nestlings was the poorest in low density control group.

Conclusion

Nestlings hatched and raised in high nest density plots did not have higher blood haemoglobin concentration in comparison to other study groups. Furthermore, they were affected with depressed cell mediated immune function, which is possibly driven by combined maternal (corticosteroid hormones deposited in yolk) and environmental (elevated social stress) effects. These results indicate that breeders from high nest densities do not benefit by rising offspring in better quality, in terms of immune function and body condition, although, in the light of previous studies, high nest densities are occupied by birds of higher individual quality, than low density areas. Our study provides a novel insight into the mechanisms of density-dependence that govern fitness of colonially nesting birds.
Effects of wearable ankle robotics for stair and over-ground training on sub-acute stroke: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yeung Ling-Fung , Lau Cathy C. Y. , Lai Charles W. K. , Soo Yannie O. Y. , Chan Man-Lok , Tong Raymond K. Y.
Published: January 2021

Background

Wearable ankle robotics could potentially facilitate intensive repetitive task-specific gait training on stair environment for stroke rehabilitation. A lightweight (0.5 kg) and portable exoskeleton ankle robot was designed to facilitate over-ground and stair training either providing active assistance to move paretic ankle augmenting residual motor function (power-assisted ankle robot, PAAR), or passively support dropped foot by lock/release ankle joint for foot clearance in swing phase (swing-controlled ankle robot, SCAR). In this two-center randomized controlled trial, we hypothesized that conventional training integrated with robot-assisted gait training using either PAAR or SCAR in stair environment are more effective to enhance gait recovery and promote independency in early stroke, than conventional training alone.

Methods

Sub-acute stroke survivors (within 2 months after stroke onset) received conventional training integrated with 20-session robot-assisted training (at least twice weekly, 30-min per session) on over-ground and stair environments, wearing PAAR (n = 14) or SCAR (n = 16), as compared to control group receiving conventional training only (CT, n = 17). Clinical assessments were performed before and after the 20-session intervention, including functional ambulatory category as primary outcome measure, along with Berg balance scale and timed 10-m walk test.

Results

After the 20-session interventions, all three groups showed statistically significant and clinically meaningful within-group functional improvement in all outcome measures (p < 0.005). Between-group comparison showed SCAR had greater improvement in functional ambulatory category (mean difference + 0.6, medium effect size 0.610) with more than 56% independent walkers after training, as compared to only 29% for CT. Analysis of covariance results showed PAAR had greater improvement in walking speed than SCAR (mean difference + 0.15 m/s, large effect size 0.752), which was in line with the higher cadence and speed when wearing the robot during the 20-session robot-assisted training over-ground and on stairs.

Conclusions

Robot-assisted stair training would lead to greater functional improvement in gait independency and walking speed than conventional training in usual care. The active powered ankle assistance might facilitate users to walk more and faster with their paretic leg during stair and over-ground walking.

Trial registration:ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03184259. Registered on 12 June 2017.
Parent-perceived barriers to accessing services for their child’s mental health problems
Authors: Hansen Anna Sofie , Telléus Gry Kjaersdam , Mohr-Jensen Christina , Lauritsen Marlene Briciet
Published: January 2021

Background

Many children and adolescents with impairing mental health disorders are not in contact with specialized child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). In order to close the service gap, it is important to increase our knowledge of barriers to access. The aim of this study was to investigate parent perceived barriers to accessing services for their child’s mental health problems to identify potential areas for improvement of access to CAMHS.

Method

In this cross-sectional observational study 244 parents of children and adolescents referred to outpatient psychiatric assessment were interviewed using the Children’s services interview regarding barriers to accessing child mental health services across healthcare, educational services and social services. Parent reported barriers were analyzed in relation to the child’s age, referral reason, symptom duration and impairment of the child.

Results

The most commonly reported barriers were lack of information about were to seek help (60.3%), the perception that professionals did not listen (59.8%) and professionals refusing to initiate interventions or provide referral to services (53.7%). Lack of knowledge, stigmatization and unavailability of services were common themes across barriers to help-seeking. Long symptom duration and parent rated impairment was associated with increased risk of reporting several barriers to help-seeking.

Conclusion

Parents seeking help for their child’s mental health encounter numerous barriers that could explain part of the treatment gap and long duration of mental health problems in children prior to referral to CAMHS.
Consensus on research priorities for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance: a Delphi study
Authors: McLachlan Sarah , Bungay Hilary
Published: January 2021

Background

Consensus methods such as the Delphi technique have been used widely for research priority setting in health care. Within pre-hospital emergency medicine, such approaches have helped to establish national and international research priorities. However, in a dynamic field such as pre-hospital critical care, it is necessary to regularly review the continued relevance of findings. Further, considering the variability between pre-hospital critical care providers, it is also important to determine priorities at the local level. Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) sought to develop a five-year research strategy that aligns with their clinical work streams and organisational priorities.

Methods

All staff and Trustees were invited to participate in an online Delphi study with three Rounds. The Delphi was administered via email and Online Surveys software. The first Round invited participants to submit up to five research questions that they felt were of greatest importance to EHAAT  to advance the care provided to patients. In Round 2, participants were asked to rate the importance of questions from Round 1, while Round 3 required participants to rank questions that were prioritised in Round 2 in order of importance.

Results

22 participants submitted a total of 86 research questions in Round 1, which were reduced to 69 questions following deduplication and refinement. 11 participants rated the importance of the questions in Round 2, resulting in 14 questions being taken forward to Round 3. Following the ranking exercise in Round 3, completed by 12 participants, a top five research priorities were identified. The question deemed most important was “How does a pre-hospital doctor-paramedic team affect the outcome of patients with severe head injuries?”.

Conclusions

The top five research priorities identified through the Delphi process will inform EHAAT’s research strategy. Findings suggest that there is still work to be done in addressing research priorities described in previous literature.
Patterns of treatment with everolimus exemestane in hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer in the era of targeted therapy
Authors: Rozenblit Mariya , Mun Sophia , Soulos Pamela , Adelson Kerin , Pusztai Lajos , Mougalian Sarah
Published: January 2021

Background

There is currently no clinical trial data regarding the efficacy of everolimus exemestane (EE) following prior treatment with CDK4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i). This study assesses the use and efficacy of everolimus exemestane in patients with metastatic HR+ HER2− breast cancer previously treated with endocrine therapy (ET) or endocrine therapy + CDK4/6i.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of electronic health record-derived data for HR+ HER2− metastatic breast cancer from 2012 to 2018. The proportion of patients receiving EE first-line, second-line, or third-line, and the median duration of EE prior to next line of treatment (TTNT) by line of therapy was calculated. OS for patients receiving EE first-line, second-line, or third-line, indexed to the date of first-line therapy initiation and stratified by prior treatment received, was calculated with Kaplan-Meier method with multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.

Results

Six hundred twenty-two patients received EE first-line (n = 104, 16.7%), second-line (n = 273, 43.9%) or third-line (n = 245, 39.4%). Median TTNT was 8.3 months, 5.5 months, and 4.8 months respectively. Median TTNT of EE second-line was longer following prior ET alone compared to prior ET + CDK4/6i (6.2 months (95% CI 5.2, 7.3) vs 4.3 months (95% CI 3.2, 5.7) respectively,p = 0.03). Similarly, EE third-line following ET alone vs ET + CDK4/6i in first- or second-line resulted in median TTNT 5.6 months (95% CI 4.4, 6.9) vs 4.1 months (95% CI 3.6, 6.1) respectively, although this was not statistically significant (p = 0.08). Median OS was longer for patients who received EE following prior ET + CDK4/6i. EE second-line following ET + CDK 4/6i vs ET alone resulted in median OS 37.7 months vs. 32.7 months (p = 0.449). EE third-line following ET + CDK4/6i vs prior ET alone resulted in median OS 59.2 months vs. 40.8 months (p < 0.010). This difference in OS was not statistically significant when indexed to the start of EE therapy.

Conclusion

This study suggests that EE remains an effective treatment option after prior ET or ET + CDK4/6i use. Median TTNT of EE was longer for patients who received prior ET, whereas median OS was longer for patients who received prior ET + CDK4/6i. However, this improvement in OS was not statistically significant when indexed to the start of EE therapy suggesting that OS benefit is primarily driven by prior CDK4/6i use. EE remains an effective treatment option regardless of prior treatment option.