bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic systematics of Butyrivibrio and Pseudobutyrivibrio genomes illustrate possession of open genomes rich in orthologous accessory genes with an abundance of carbohydrate-active enzyme isoforms
Authors: Huws Sharon , Skvortsov Timofey , Santos Fernanda Godoys , Courtney Stephen , Ting Karen Siu , Creevey Chris
Published: June 2020

BackgroundButyrivibrio and Pseudobutyrivibrio dominate in anaerobic gastrointestinal microbiomes, particularly the rumen, where they play a key role in harvesting energy from the diet. Within these genera, 5 rumen species have been classified (B. fibrisolvens, B. hungatei, B. proteoclasticus, P. ruminis and P. xylanivorans); nonetheless, the phylogeny and evolution of these genera is still unclear. Given the recent increase in available genomes, a re-investigation of the phylogenetic systematics and evolution of Butyrivibrio and Pseudobutyrivibrio is timely.ResultsWe show, using both a 16S rDNA and 40 gene marker phylogenetic tree, that 6 species, namely 1. P. ruminis, 2. P. xylanivorans, 3. B. fibrisolvens, 4. Butyrivibrio sp., 5. B. hungatei, and 6. B. proteclasticus likely exist. Pangenome analysis at 100% core definition showed a high abundance of accessory genes (91.50 to 99.34%) compared with core genes (0.66 to 8.50%), illustrating possession of very open genomes. Across the 71 genomes, 870 COGs (clusters of orthologous genes) were shared by all taxa, suggesting evolution through speciation from a common ancestor. Further analysis of Carbohydrate-Active Enzymes (CAZymes) genes show that most are within the accessory genome and orthologous in descent with numerous within-family CAZyme isoforms apparent, CAZyme family tree lineages show that these isoforms largely group according to the 6 species, suggesting extensive horizontal gene transfer within these families.ConclusionsWe show the extensive genomic variation found within Butyrivibrio, and to a lesser extent, Pseudobutyrivibrio. and demonstrate the existence of a new Butyrivibrio species. The Butyrivibrio and Pseudobutyrivibrio genomes are very open with very low % core genomes and high % accessory genomes., and possess a number of GH isoforms that we hypothesise facilitate metabolic plasticity and resilience under dietary perturbations. This study utilizes all currently available genomes and consequently provides a major advancement in our understanding of these important anaerobic bacteria.
Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Subjective Tinnitus: a Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Fang Bixing , Liang Yinfei , Gu Jing , Li Zhenzhi , Cen Jintian , Yuan Lianxiong , Zheng Ke , Chen Dan , Li Zhicheng , Zeng Xiangli
Published: June 2020

Background: To analyze data from the tinnitus study that addresses the factors contributing to the acute exacerbation of chronic subjective tinnitus, and providing a comprehensive landscape of multiple factors action patterns on acute exacerbation of tinnitus.Methods: It reports data from patients with chronic subjective tinnitus, enabling a direct comparison of results between the stable stage of chronic tinnitus and the acute exacerbation of chronic tinnitus samples. Participants had completed comprehensive audiometric testing and numerous questionnaires.Results: Results are presented from n=602 participants across the two sites, including 204 patients in the stable stage of tinnitus and 398 patients in acute exacerbation of tinnitus. The data reveal that: ①Acute exacerbation of chronic tinnitus is affected by many factors, among them, aggravated hearing loss, fatigue, stress, disturbed sleep, negative emotion, upper respiratory tract infection, noise exposure, and abruptly changed barometric pressure may aggravate the tinnitus; ②Smoking, drink, and course of tinnitus are not risked factors for acute exacerbation of chronic tinnitus; ③Comparison of the importance of the four factors induce acute exacerbation of chronic tinnitus, fatigue and stress are the most important, then, in turn, negative emotions and sleep disorders.Conclusions: ①There were many incentives for acute exacerbation of chronic tinnitus and multiple causes coexist under normal conditions. ②The prevention and prognosis management of acute exacerbation of chronic tinnitus should be approached from multiple dimensions, which includes biological, social support, patient psychology.Trial registration: Not applicable
Baseline Factors Identified For Prediction of Good Responders in Patients With End-Stage Diffuse Coronary Artery Disease Undergoing Intracoronary CD34+ Cell Therapy
Authors: Sung Pei-Hsun , Chiang Hsin-Ju , Li Yi-Chen , Chiang John Y , Chu Chi-Hsiang , Shao Pei-Lin , Lee Fan-Yen , Lee Mel S. , Yip Hon-Kan
Published: June 2020

Background: Treating patients with end-stage diffuse coronary artery disease (EnD-CAD) unsuitable for coronary intervention remains a clinical challenge. They usually express refractory angina and have high risk for mortality. Although growing data have indicated cell therapy is an alternative solution to medical or invasive therapy, there are still lacking useful markers to predict whether heart function will improve in the EnD-CAD patients who underwent circulatory-derived CD34+ cell therapy. By utilizing the baseline variables and results from our previous phase I/II clinical trials, the aim of this study tried to elucidate the variables predictive of the “good response” to CD34+ cell therapy.Methods: This retrospective study included 38 patients in the phase I clinical trial (2011-2014), and 30 patients in the phase II clinical trial (2013-2017). These patients were categorized into “good responders” and “non-responders” according to their 1-year improvement of LVEF ≥7.0% or <7.0% after intracoronary CD34+ cell therapy. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression model was performed to identify potential independent predictors of good responder to cell therapy, followed by Hosmer–Lemeshow (H-L) test for goodness of fit and prediction power.Results: Among baseline data, multivariate analysis demonstrated that history of former smoker was independently predictive of good responders (p=0.006). On the other hand, male gender, the baseline Canadian Cardiovascular Society angina score ≥3 and grades of LV diastolic dysfunction ≥2 were significantly negative predictors of good responders (all p<0.01). After administration of subcutaneous granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), a higher post-G-CSF neutrophil count in addition to the above four baseline variables played crucial roles in early prediction of good response to CD34+ cell therapy for EnD-CAD (all p<0.03). The H-L test displayed a good prediction power with sensitivity 83.3%, specificity 85.3% and accuracy 84.4%. Conclusions: Using the results of our phase I/II clinical trials, previous smoking habit, female sex, lower grades of angina score and diastolic dysfunction were identified to be independently predictive of “good response” to CD34+ cell therapy in the patients with EnD-CAD.Trial registration: This is a retrospective analysis based on the phase I (ISRCTN72853206) and II (ISRCTN26002902) clinical trials
Comparisons of acromiohumeral distance measurements between two- and three-dimensional imaging and between the supine and standing positions
Authors: Yoshida Yuki , Matsumura Noboru , Yamada Yoshitake , Yamada Minoru , Yokoyama Yoichi , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Nagura Takeo , Jinzaki Masahiro
Published: June 2020

Background
Narrowing of the acromiohumeral distance (AHD) implies a rotator cuff tear. However, AHD measurements on two-dimensional (2D) imaging or with the patient in the supine position might differ from that while standing during daily activity. This study aimed to accurately measure the distance between the acromion and the humeral head on three-dimensional (3D) imaging acquired in the standing position and to compare this with AHD measurements made on images acquired in the supine position and on 2D images.
Methods
Computed tomography (CT) images of 166 shoulders from 83 healthy volunteers (31 male and 52 female; mean age 40.1 ± 5.8 years; age range, 30–49 years) were prospectively acquired in the supine and standing positions using conventional and upright CT scanners, respectively. AHD was calculated as the minimum distance between the acromion and the humeral head on the 3D surface models. Two-dimensional AHD was measured on anteroposterior digitally reconstructed radiographs images. The AHD values were compared between the supine and standing positions and between the 2D and 3D measurements.
Results
The mean values of 2D AHD were 8.8 ± 1.3 mm (range, 5.9–15.4 mm) in the standing position and 8.1 ± 1.2 mm (range, 5.3–14.3 mm) in the supine position. The mean values of 3D AHD were 7.3 ± 1.4 mm (range, 4.7–14.0 mm) in the standing position and 6.6 ± 1.2 mm (range, 4.4–13.7 mm) in the supine position. The values of 3D AHD were significantly lower than those of 2D AHDs in both the standing and supine positions (P < 0.001). The values of 2D and 3D AHDs were significantly lower in the supine position than in the standing position (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
The present results indicated that assessments in the supine position can underestimate the value of the AHD compared with those made in the standing position and that assessments using 2D analysis can overestimate the value. It is necessary to understand that the anatomical distance of the subacromial space changes with images and gravity.
Contribution of Root Respiration to Total Soil Respiration During the Non-growth Seasonin Mine Reclaimed Soil With Different Covering Soil Thicknesses
Authors: Chen Min , Chen Xiaoyang , Hu Zhiyong , Fan Tingyu , Zhang Shiwen , Liu Ying
Published: June 2020

An accurate assessment of root respiration in mine reclaimed soil is important for effectively evaluating mining area ecosystem. This study investigated dynamic changes in root respiration and contribution of root respiration to total soil respiration (Rr/Rt ratio) during the non-growth season in mine reclaimed soil with different covering soil thicknesses. According to covering soil thicknesses, the study area was divided into four sites: 10-25 cm (site A), 25-45 cm (site B), 45-55 cm (site C) and 55-65 cm (site D). From November 2017 to April 2018 (except February in 2018), the soil respiration, root respiration, temperature at 5 cm, water content and root biomass were measured. The results showed thatsoiltemperature and root respiration exhibited similar diurnal and monthly variations. The root respiration was strongly influenced by soil temperature during the non-growing season, which showed an exponential and positive relationship with soil temperature (P<0.001). The root respiration varied withthe covering soil thickness and was the greatest with the covering soil thickness at 25–45 cm.The Rr/Rt ratio also exhibited monthly variations. During the non-growth season, the mean value of the Rr/Rt ratio were 51.15% in mine reclaimed soil. The study indicated that root respiration was the primary source of soil respiration and important to estimate the potential of emission of soilCO2 at regional scale inmine reclaimed soil.
Different Impacts of the zero-markup drug policy on county general and traditional Chinese medicine hospitals: Evidence from Shandong province, China
Authors: Jiang Xiaofeng , He Ping , Zhu Dawei , Shi Xuefeng , Meng Qingyue
Published: June 2020

BackgroundAs a key part of the new round of health reform, the zero-markup drug policy (ZMDP) removed the profit margins of drug sales at public health care facilities, and had some effects to the operation of these institutions. This study aims to assess whether the ZMDP has different impacts between county general and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) hospitals.MethodsWe obtained longitudinal data from all county general and TCM hospitals of Shandong province in 2007-2017. We used difference-in-difference (DID) method to identify the overall and dynamic effects of the ZMDP.ResultsOn average, after the implementation of the ZMDP, the share of revenue from medicine sales reduced by 16.47% and 10.42%, the revenue from medicine sales reduced by 24.04% and 11.58%, in county general and TCM hospitals, respectively. The gross revenue reduced by 5.07% in county general hospitals. The number of annual outpatient visits reduced by 11.22% in county TCM hospitals. Government subsidies increased by 199.22% and 89.3% in county general and TCM hospitals, respectively. The ZMDP reform was not significantly associated with the revenue and expenditure surplus, the number of annual outpatient visits and the number of annual inpatient visits in county general hospitals, the gross revenue, the revenue and expenditure surplus and the number of annual inpatient visits in county TCM hospitals. In terms of dynamic effects, the share of revenue from medicine sales, revenue from medicine sales, and gross revenue decreased by 20.20%, 32.58% and 6.08% respectively, and up to 28.53%, 63.89% and 17.94% after adoption, while government subsidies increased by around 170% to 200% in county general hospitals. The number of annual outpatient visits decreased by 9.70% and up to 18.84% in county TCM hospitals.ConclusionThe ZMDP achieved its some initial goals of removing the profits from western medicines in county hospitals’ revenue without disrupting the normal operation, and had different impacts between county general and TCM hospitals. Meanwhile, some unintended consequences were also recognized through the analysis, such as the decline of the utilization of the TCM.
Unmet need for health services among refugees and asylum seekers in Thailand, relative to the Thai population: an analytic cross sectional study, 2019
Authors: Suphanchaimat Rapeepong , Sinam Pigunkaew , Phaiyarom Mathudara , Pudpong Nareerut , Julchoo Sataporn , Kunpeuk Watinee , Thammawijaya Panithee
Published: June 2020

BackgroundAlthough the Thai government has introduced policies to promote health of migrants, it is still the case that urban refugees and asylum seekers (URAS) seem to be neglected. This study aimed to explore the degree of healthcare access through the perspective of unmet need in URASs, relative to the Thai population.MethodsA cross-sectional survey, using a self-reporting questionnaire adapted from the Thai Health and Welfare Survey (HWS), was performed in late 2019, with 181 URASs attending the survey. The samples were randomly selected from the roster of the Bangkok Refugee Center. The data of the URAS survey were combined with data of the Thai population (n=2,941) from the HWS. Unmet need for health services was defined as the status of when a respondent needed healthcare in the past twelve months but failed to receive it. Bivariate analysis was conducted to explore the demographic and unmet need difference between URASs and Thais. Multivariable logistic regression and mixed-effects (ME) model were performed to determine factors associated with unmet need.ResultsOverall, URASs were of lower age, less educated and living in more economically deprived households, compared with Thais. About 98% of URASs were uninsured by any of the existing health insurance schemes. The prevalence of unmet need among URASs was significantly higher than Thais in both outpatient (OP) and inpatient (IP) services (54.1% versus 2.1% and 28.0% versus 2.1%, respectively). Being uninsured demonstrated the greatest degree of association with unmet need, especially for OP care. The association between insurance status and unmet need was more pronounced in ME model, relative to multivariable logistic regression. URASs migrating from Arab nations suffered from unmet need to a greater extent, compared with those originating from non-Arab nations.ConclusionThe prevalence of unmet need in URASs was drastically high, relative to the prevalence in Thais. Factors suggesting a positive relationship with unmet need included advanced age, lower education achievement, and, most evidently, being unsinured. Policy makers should consider a policy option to enrol URASs in the nationwide public insurance scheme to create health security for the entire Thai society.
Prevalence and predictors of work related musculoskeletal disorders among workers of a Gold mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Okello Alfred , Wafula Solomon Tsebeni , Deogratias Deogratias K , Mugambe Richard K
Published: June 2020

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are a major constraint to worker performance and health. However, research on their prevalence and associated factors among workers at gold mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is insufficient. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of WRMSDs among workers of a Gold Mine in South Kivu, DRC. Methods: Cross sectional data was collected using a modified Nordic questionnaire and upper limb Core QX checklist. A generalised linear model of the Poison family with link log and robust error variances was used to generate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the factors associated with WRMSDS. All analysis were performed in Stata 14 software.Results: Overall, 12-month prevalence of WRMSDs was 25.0% with highest occurrence rate in the lower back (24.6%), followed by thighs/hip (15.3%) and shoulders(13.6%). Prolonged heavy lifting /shovelling shovelling ( P R = 2.26, 95% CI [1.32, 3.86] and longer work shifts (> 9hrs) ( P R = 3.43, 95% CI [1.98, 12.03]) were predictive for WRMSDs while jobs with low demands were protective against WRMSDs ( PR = 0.26, 95% CI [0.16, 0.42]). Conclusion: We recommend lowering workload and job demands and improving work ergonomics to mitigate and prevent the WRMSDs among workers in goldmines.
Factors associated with medial meniscal subluxation in knees with medial meniscus tears: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Xinguang , Ding Ran , Liu Chen , Yang Bin , Wang Weiguo
Published: June 2020

Background Previous studies have indicated that medial meniscal subluxation (MMS) was associated with special types of medial meniscus tears (MMT) and chondral lesions. However, most of these studies lacked arthroscopic findings and had not adjusted for possible confounders. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors associated with MMS in patients with MMT using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Methods A retrospective analysis of 115 patients who underwent arthroscopic surgery for MMT was conducted. The medial meniscal extrusion (MME) distance was measured on a single mid-coronal MR image, and the MMS group included patients with MME ≥3 mm (55 patients with 55 knees). Other patients were included as the control group (60 patients with 60 knees). Demographic and clinical data were collected as variates. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with MMS. Results The MME distance was significantly higher in the MMS group (median distance: 3.5 mm, interquartile range: 3.3–4.1 mm) than in the control group (median distance: 1.8 mm, interquartile range: 1.3–2.3 mm, P<0.001). The Outerbridge classification (P=0.002) and the type of MMT (P=0.001) were significantly different between the MMS group and the control group. According to the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the type of MMT (P=0.015) was the independent factor associated with MMS after adjusting for other variates. Compared with horizontal tears, radial tears, PMMRT and complex tears had an approximately 8-fold (OR 7.592, 95 % CI 1.681–34.295, P=0.008), 11-fold (OR 11.451, 95 % CI 1.763–74.379, P=0.011) and 4-fold (OR 4.387, 95 % CI 1.558–12.355, P=0.005) higher association with MMS, respectively. Conclusion The type of MMT was an independent factor associated with MMS in knees with MMT. Radial tears, PMMRT and complex tears were more likely than horizontal tears to result in MMS. These results suggest that MMT combined with MMS should be noticed when managing MMT, especially radial tears, PMMRT and complex tears. We must not only preserve the meniscus as much as possible but also restore its position to as close to normal as possible.
Ellipse method for measuring Liaw’s anteversion of the acetabular component after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Yeh Kuei-Lin , Wu Tai-Yin , Ma Hsuan-Hsiao , Hou Sheng-Mou , Liaw Chen-Kun
Published: June 2020

Background: Several cup anteversion measurements for post-operative total hip arthroplasty (THA) surgery have been described. We developed the standardized Liaw’s trigonometric method to eliminate the influence of patient position, which is the most accurate method for cup anteversion measurement. We then developed an ellipse method using the Elliversion software and reported an interobserver error reduction in 2013. In our study, we attempted to apply this ellipse method in the clinic and compared its accuracy with the standard trigonometric version.Methods: In the present study, we attempted to incorporate the ellipse method with Liaw’s standardized anteversion in the simulated cup position. We measured standardized Liaw’s anteversion for 434 radiographs in the clinic using the ellipse method. The Repeatedly Standard Deviation (RSD) was applied for accuracy evaluation. Furthermore, paired t-test was used for comparison with the interobserver and intraobserver errors. Results: We found that the standardized Liaw’s anteversion measured using the ellipse method showed lower repeated standard deviation than the radiographic version. RSD was 0.795 in the standardized Liaw’s anteversion with ellipse method group. The p-values of the paired t-test were all higher than 0.05 when measuring the interobserver and intraobserver bias. It indicated that the ellipse method was a precise and simple tool for cup anteversion measurement. Conclusion: We believe that this ellipse measurement can assist surgeons while placing the acetabulum cup into the precise position and enable early diagnosis of acetabulum loosening.
Clinical Significance and Prognostic Value of the Expression of Fibronectin Type III Domain Containing 3B in Pancreatic Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Liqin , Liao Xuehong , Du Kaixin , Li Jinluan , Luo Huihuang , Luo Shuiying , Lin Xiaoyi , Gao Jie , Kong Xiangquan
Published: June 2020

Background: Pancreatic carcinoma (PC) is one of the most aggressive cancers affecting human health. Identifying candidate biomarkers is essential for the early diagnosis and good prognosis of PC. Fibronectin type III domain containing 3B (FNDC3B) promotes many types of cancer, but its role in pancreatic cancer is not clear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the expression of FNDC3B and incidence of PC. Methods: We downloaded data related to the levels of FNDC3B mRNA in patients of PC from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, and conducted in-depth research on this data and its clinical significance through the R tools. We used GO and KEGG enrichment analyses to study the genes and signaling pathways that may be regulated by FNDC3B. Results: The results showed that the level of FNDC3B mRNA in PC tissues was higher than that in the normal tissues, and this was associated with proliferation and lymph node metastases of PC. Increased levels of FNDC3B mRNA also predict poor prognosis for the patients with PC. In addition, enhanced levels of FNDC3B mRNA were involved in the regulation of cell junction, tissue and epithelial cell migration, and several signal transduction pathways, including notch, TGF-β, VEGF, and Wnt. Conclusions: In short, high levels of FNDC3B mRNA may be associated with progression of PC and indicate a poor prognosis in patients with PC.
SARS-CoV-2 Serology Results in the First COVID-19 Case in California: A Case Report and Recommendations for Serology Testing and Interpretation
Authors: Lanman Richard B. , Lanman Todd H.
Published: June 2020

Background: As countries in COVID-19 pandemic lockdown begin relaxation of shelter-in-place mitigation strategies, the role of serology testing escalates in importance. However, there are no clear guidelines as to when to use qualitative rapid diagnostic serology tests (RDTs) vs. SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA load (PCR) tests as an aid in acute diagnosis of patients presenting with flu-like symptoms, nor how to interpret serology test results in asymptomatic individuals or those with atypical COVID-19 symptomatology. Here we describe, in the context of the likely first case of COVID-19 in California, with an atypical presentation and not tested acutely, who nearly 3 months later was found to be IgM- and IgG+ positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, highlighting the role of RDT-based serology testing and interpretation in retrospective diagnosis.Case Presentation: A 62-year-old male practicing neurosurgeon had onset of flu-like symptoms on January 20 with fatigue, slight cough only on deep inspiration, intermittent pleuritic chest pain unrelated to exertion, dyspnea, and night sweats but without fever, sore throat or rhinorrhea. He had recently traveled abroad but not to China. CT scan revealed right lower lobe infiltrate and effusion. Because of atypical symptoms, and low prevalence of COVID-19 in January, community acquired pneumonia was diagnosed and one week of doxycycline was prescribed without relief, followed by a second week of azithromycin with symptom remission. Three months later the physician-patient (author THL), tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies by a serology point-of-care rapid diagnostic test (RDT).Conclusions: Serology testing may be an aid in acute diagnosis of COVID-19, especially in patients with atypical presentations, as well as in assessment of asymptomatic higher-risk persons such as healthcare workers for prior infection. Recommendations for serology testing and interpretation are explicated.
Chemotherapy is not Necessary for Early-Stage Serous and Endometrioid Ovarian Cancer After Undergoing Comprehensive Staging Surgery
Authors: Li Shuqing , Zhu Zhiling
Published: June 2020

Background: To investigate whether adjuvant chemotherapy was essential for patients with early-stage serous and endometrioid epithelial ovarian cancer，we collected data from the US Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database between 2004 and 2015. All subjects underwent comprehensive staging surgery and their pathological diagnoses were stage IA-IIA, grade 1-2. Ultimately, a total of 2,644 patients were enrolled in the study, among which 1,589 patients received platinum-based chemotherapy. Comparisons of categorical data were done by chi-square tests. Variables with P < 0.05 in univariate analysis were further analyzed using multiple logistic regression. Selection bias from the heterogeneity of demographic and clinical characteristics were avoided by propensity score matching. Cox proportional hazards models were applied to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), exploring the relationship between variables and 5-year overall survival.Results: After propensity score matching, patients with or without chemotherapy were equal number (n=925). Our results indicated that 65 years of age or older increased the hazard and was related to poor prognostic (HR = 1.486, CI = 1.208- 1.827, P < 0.001). Endometrioid carcinoma was associated with better 5-year overall survival than serous cystadenocarcinoma (HR = 0.697, CI = 0.584-0.833, P < 0.001). Chemotherapy could not prolong 5-year overall survival of early-stage serous and endometrioid ovarian cancer patients (HR = 1.092, CI = 0.954-1.249, P = 0.201).Conclusions: These results demonstrated that adjuvant chemotherapy was unnecessary for patients with early-stage serous and endometrioid ovarian cancer after they underwent comprehensive staging surgery.
The κ-statistics approach to epidemiology
Authors: Kaniadakis Giorgio , Baldi Mauro M. , Deisboeck Thomas S. , Grisolia Giulia , Hristopulos Dionissios T. , Scarfone Antonio M. , Sparavigna Amelia , Wada Tatsuaki , Lucia Umberto
Published: June 2020

A great variety of complex physical, natural and artificial systems are governed by statistical distributions, which often follow a standard exponential function in the bulk, while their tail obeys the Pareto power law. The recently introduced k-statistics framework predicts distribution functions with this feature. A growing number of applications in different fields of investigation are beginning to prove the relevance and effectiveness of k-statistics in fitting empirical data. In this paper, we use k-statistics to formulate a statistical approach for epidemiological analysis. We validate the theoretical results by fitting the derived k-Weibull distributions with data from the plague pandemic of 1417 in Florence as well as partial data (until April 16, 2020) from the COVID-19 pandemic in China. The fact that both the approximate dataset of the Florence plague and the partial data of the Covid-19 pandemic in China are well described by means of the proposed model suggests that the k-deformed Weibull model is relevant and that both datasets faithfully represent the spreading of the epidemics.
No Increased Risk for Scoliosis After Early Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy - A Longitudinal Population-Based Controlled Registry Study from four to 25 years of Age
Authors: Josenby Annika Lundkvist , Westbom Lena
Published: June 2020

Spasticity interfering with gross motor development in cerebral palsy (CP) can be reduced with selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR). Although reported, it is unknown if SDR surgery increases the risk for later spine problems. Using CP-registry data from a geographically defined population with the same health care and habilitation services, the objectives were to compare reported scoliosis and spinal pain up to adult age in all SDR-operated with all non-SDR-operated individuals with same medical history, functional abilities, and level of spasticity at four years of age. Method In the total population with CP spastic diplegia in Skåne and Blekinge, born 1990-2006, 149 individuals had moderate to severe spasticity and no medical contraindications against SDR at four years of age and were included; 36 persons had undergone SDR at a median age of 4.0 years (range 2.5 – 6.6 years), and 113 individuals constituting the control group, had not. Data on scoliosis and spinal pain at 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of age were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Fisher’s exact test. Gross motor function classification (GMFCS) levels at four years of age (or pre-operatively) were used for stratification.Result Presence of scoliosis at 15, 20, and 25 years of age was the same in the SDR group as in the control group (p=0.734, 0.735 and 1.0). In severe functional disability (GMFCS IV), the SDR group had later onset and lower occurrence of scoliosis (p=0.004) than the control group. Frequency of reported spinal pain did not differ between the groups. Conclusion Neither scoliosis, nor spinal pain was more frequent after SDR than expected by natural history. On the contrary, in severe CP (GMFCS level IV), scoliosis was less frequently reported and had a later onset in the SDR group than in the same GMFCS-level control group.
Biomass loss in village ecosystem due to human-wildlife interaction in Western Himalayan region, India
Authors: Rawat Sushma , Nagar Bhuvnesh , Pandey Rajiv , Alatalo Juha M , Adhikari Bhupendra Singh
Published: June 2020

Conservation faces the challenge of reconciling human activities with the simultaneous presence of wildlife in cultivated landscapes. In attempt to estimate biomass and associated carbon loss due to the removal of agroforestry trees species the present study was carried out in two villages of Pauri Garhwal. The results revealed that due to human-animal interaction caused substantial biomass loss (7.365 and 2.453 t ha-1) and carbon loss (3.386 and 15.133 t ha-1) in the two studied villages Manjgaon and Mald Bada, respectively. The estimates of the present study demands protecting existing forests and planting trees through reforestation and afforestation as a measure to enhance carbon sequestration capacity. The success of these management practices will depend on the potential to minimise human-animal interactions especially in the fringes of the village community and agricultural landscapes.
Inconsistent Reversal of HIV-1 Latency Ex Vivo by Antigens of HIV-1, CMV, and Other Infectious Agents
Authors: Vollbrecht Thomas , Angerstein Aaron O. , Menke Bryson , Kumar Nikesh M. , Oliveira Michelli Faria , Richman Douglas D. , Guatelli John C
Published: June 2020

BackgroundA reservoir of replication-competent but latent virus is the main obstacle to a cure for HIV-infection. Much of this reservoir resides in memory CD4 T cells. We hypothesized that these cells can be reactivated with antigens from HIV and other common pathogens to reverse latency. ResultsWe obtained mononuclear cells from the peripheral blood of antiretroviral-treated patients with suppressed viremia. We tested pools of peptides and proteins derived from HIV and from other pathogens including CMV for their ability to reverse latency ex vivo by activation of memory responses. We assessed activation of the CD4 T cells by measuring the up-regulation of cell-surface CD69. We assessed HIV-expression using two assays: a real-time PCR assay for virion-associated viral RNA and a droplet digital PCR assay for cell-associated, multiply spliced viral mRNA. Reversal of latency occurred in a minority of cells from some participants, but no single antigen induced HIV-expression ex vivo consistently. When reversal of latency was induced by a specific peptide pool or protein, the extent was proportionally greater than that of T cell activation. ConclusionsIn this group of patients in whom antiretroviral therapy was started during chronic infection, the latent reservoir does not appear to consistently reside in CD4 T cells of a predominant antigen-specificity. Peptide-antigens reversed HIV-latency ex vivo with modest and variable activity. When latency was reversed by specific peptides or proteins, it was proportionally greater than the extent of T cell activation, suggesting partial enrichment of the latent reservoir in cells of specific antigen-reactivity.
A comparative study of dementia knowledge, attitudes and care approach among Chinese nursing and medical students
Authors: Wang Yao , Xiao Lily Dongxia , Huang Rong
Published: June 2020

BackgroundDementia care requires inter-disciplinary collaboration starting from formal health professional education. Yet, little is known about how undergraduate medical and nursing students perceive dementia care in China. The aim of this study was to investigate undergraduate medical and nursing students’ knowledge, attitudes and care approach of dementia in China.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted. Students enrolled in a 5-year Bachelor of Medicine Program and a 4-year Bachelor of Nursing Program from four universities with campuses across Eastern, Western, Southern and Northern China were recruited into the study. Three validated instruments, Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale, the Dementia Care Attitude Scale and Approach to Advanced Dementia Care Questionnaire, were used to measure students’ dementia knowledge, attitudes and perceived care approach. Data were collected using a self-administered survey.ResultsThe number of medical and nursing students completing the survey was 526 and 467 respectively. Overall dementia knowledge was poor (19.49±2.82), but attitudes were generally positive (29.92±3.35). Medical students demonstrated higher dementia knowledge scores and showed less positive attitude scores than nursing students (p<0.05). We also observed that students would not apply a person-centered care approach. Findings also revealed statistically significant differences in care approach scores between medical and nursing students.ConclusionsStudy results highlight the urgent need to implement an inter-disciplinary approach to increasing dementia education among Chinese medical and nursing students, and ensuring that students have adequate knowledge, attitudes and experience in the care of people with dementia.
Influence of X Ray Computed Tomography (CT) Exposure and Reconstruction Parameters on Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Quantitation
Authors: Shon Ivan Ho , Reece Christopher , Hennessy Thomas , Horsfield Megan , McBride Bruce
Published: June 2020

Background:The CT of PET CT provides diagnostic information, anatomic localisation and attenuation correction (AC). When only ACis required very lose dose CT is desirable.CT Iterative reconstruction (IR) improves image quality with lower exposures however there is little data on very low dose IR CT for AC of PET. This work aims to assess the impact of CT exposure and reconstruction algorithm on PET voxel values.Method: An anthropomorphic torso phantom was filled with physiologically typical [18]F concentrations in heart, liver and background compartments. A 17mm diameter “tumour” was included in the right lung. PET was acquired followed by 24 CT acquisitions with varying CT exposures (15-50mAs, 80 – 120kVp, pitch 0.671 - 0.828). Each CT was reconstructed twice using filtered back projection (FBP) or IR and these used for AC of PET. Regions of interest (ROIs) were drawn in liver, soft tissue and over “tumour” on each test reconstruction (TR) and compared with the reference reconstruction (RR), (50mAs, 120kVp, pitch 0.828, IR). Comparison of voxel values in each TR compared to the RR was undertaken using a paired t-test and by calculating which and what proportion of voxels in each TR differed by a quantitatively significant difference (QSD) from the corresponding RR voxel.Results: TRs reconstructed using lower dose CTs underestimated mean and maximum ROI activity relative to the RR; greater with IR than FBP. Once CT dose index (CTDI)increased to 1 mGythe differences were less than QSD. On voxel analysis all TRs were significantly different to the RR (p <0.0001). TRs reconstructed at the lowest CT exposure with IR had 6% of voxels that differed by greater than the QSD. Differences were reduced with increasing CTDI and FBP reconstruction. Voxels which exceeded the QSD were spatially localised to regions of high activity, at interfaces between different attenuation and in areas of CT beam hardening.Conclusions: Very low dose CT exposures are feasible for accurate PET AC. Scanner specific validation should be employed prior very low dose CT AC for PET reconstruction.
Evaluation of different airway tests to determine difficult intubation in apparently normal adult patients: A prospective observational study
Authors: EL-Radaideh Khaled , Dheeb Ehab , Shboul Hamzeh , Garaibeh Saif , Bataineh Adel , Khraise Wail , Radaideh Basil EL
Published: June 2020

Background
It is important to perform preoperative airway tests for prediction of difficult intubations because inadequate maintenance of a patient’s airway is still the major cause of anesthesia-related morbidity and mortality.
Methods
We conducted this study to determine which airway test, or combination of airway tests, was most clinically useful. One hundred sixty adult patients underwent preoperative assessments of the mandible protrusion test (MPT), thyromental (TMD) and sternomental (SMD) distances, inter-incisor gap (IIG), and the modified Mallampati tests with tongue protrusion (MMT-TP) and without tongue protrusion (MMT-NTP). Grade C on the MPT, TMD ≤ 6 cm, SMD ≤ 12 cm, and MMT grades III and IV were considered to be predictors of difficult tracheal intubations. A modified Cormack-Lehane grading (MCLG) of laryngoscopic views with backward, upward, and right-sided pressure on the thyroid and cricoid cartilages (BURP) maneuver was also documented, with grades 2B, 3, and 4 considered to be difficult airways for intubation.
Results
Fifteen patients (9.4%) were classified as MCLG 2B, 3, and 4, with age significantly associated with the MCLG grade (P = 0.028). The sensitivity and Youden's index of MMT-TP were found to be the lowest (40% and 0.29, respectively). The MPT was the most accurate and specific test (90.63% and 95.17%, respectively), with the highest PPV (50%), Youden's index (0.42), and area under the curve (AUC) (0.781). Bivariant analysis of MPT and the t-test of the mean TMDs and SMDs revealed significant associations between these airway tests and the difficulty of intubation (P values: < 0.001, 0.02, < 0.01, respectively).
Conclusion
The MPT, with its highest accuracy, specificity, positive predictive value, and good sensitivity may be used as a routine screening test for preoperative prediction of difficult tracheal intubations.
Recent Advances in Transition Metal Free Synthetic Protocols for Quinoline Derivatives
Authors: Tabassum Rukhsana , Ashfaq Muhammad , Oku Hiroyuki
Published: June 2020

The quinoline moiety is a privileged scaffold among heterocyclic compounds
that is an important construction motif in the fields of pharmaceutical chemistry. Quinoline
molecule possesses a variety of therapeutic activities like antiviral, antimalarial, antibacterial,
antitumor, anticancer, antioxidant antihypertensive, antifungal, anthelmintic, cardiotonic,
anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory. This review provides an insight into recent
development in transition metal free novel and modified conventional synthetic routes to
yield a wide variety of substituted quinolines.
Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Modeling Studies of Novel C (7) Modified Analogues of Chrysin
Authors: Ramesh Pulabala , Rao Vankadari Srinivasa , Reddy Puchakayala Muralidhar , Babu Katragadda Suresh , Rao Mutheneni Srinivasa
Published: June 2020

Background::

Most of the currently available pharmaceutical drugs are either natural
products or analogues of natural products. Flavonoids are plant based natural polyphenolic
compounds which exhibit a wide range of biological activities. Chrysin, a natural flavone, exhibits
several biological activities like antiallergic, anti-inflammatory and anticancer. Many efforts were
made to enhance the biological activity of chrysin. In continuation of our work on synthetic
modifications of chrysin, amino-alcohol containing heterocyclic moiety is linked to chrysin at C (7)
position to enhance its biological activity.

Methods::

A series of new C (7) modified analogues of chrysin (3a-k) have been designed and
synthesized in two steps. Chrysin, on reacting with epichlorohydrin in the presence of K2CO3 in
DMF gave epoxide (2) which was made to react with cyclic secondary amines in the presence of
LiBr to form the designed products (3a-k). All the synthesized compounds (3a-k) were well
characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectral data. The synthesized analogues (3a-k) were
screened for their in vitro biological activities against a panel of bacterial and fungal strains.
Molecular docking studies were also performed on these compounds with E. coli FabH (1HNJ) and
S. cerevisiae (5EQB) enzymes, to support the observed biological activities.

Results::

A series of new 2-hydroxy 3-amino chrysin derivatives (3a-k) were synthesized in two
steps, starting with chrysin and their structures were characterized by spectral analysis. In vitro
biological activities of these analogues against a panel of bacterial and fungal strains indicated that
some of the derivatives manifested significant activities compared to standard drugs. Molecular
docking and binding energy values were also correlated with experimental antimicrobial screening
results. Lipinski’s “rule of five” is also obeyed by these analogues (3a-k) and exhibit drug-likeness.

Conclusion::

In the present study, a series of new C (7) modified chrysin analogues (3a-k) were
synthesized and tested for their in vitro antimicrobial activities. These biological studies indicated
that some of the derivatives exhibited moderate to good antimicrobial activities compared to
standard drugs. Molecular docking studies performed on these compounds correlated with the
experimental antimicrobial activities. The results obtained in the study will be useful in establishing
new drug entities to control the pathogenic epidemics.
Identification of Novel Phyto-chemicals from Ocimum basilicum for the Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease using In Silico Approach
Authors: Mubashir Nageen , Fatima Rida , Naeem Sadaf
Published: June 2020

Background:

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by decreased level of dopaminergic
neurotransmitters and this decrease is due to the degradation of dopamine by protein Monoamine
Oxidase B (MAO-B). In order to treat Parkinson’s disease, MAO-B should be inhibited.

Objective:

To find out the novel phytochemicals from plant Ocimum basilicum that can inhibit
MAO-B by using the in silico methods.

Methods:

The data of chemical constituents from plant Ocimum basilicum was collected and inhibitory
activity of these phytochemicals was then predicted by using the Structure-Based (SB)
and Ligand-Based Virtual Screening (LBVS) methods. Molecular docking, one of the common
Structure-Based Virtual Screening method, has been used during this search. Traditionally, molecular
docking is used to predict the orientation and binding affinity of the ligand within the active
site of the protein. Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) software has been used for this purpose. On the
other hand, Random Forest Model, one of the LBVS method, has also been used to predict the activity
of these chemical constituents of Ocimum basilicum against the MAO-B.

Results:

During the docking studies, all the 108 compounds found in Ocimum basilicum were
docked within the active site of MAO-B (PDB code: 4A79) out of which, 57 compounds successfully
formed the hydrogen bond with tyr 435, a crucial amino acid for the biological activity of the
enzyme. Rutin (-182.976 Kcal/mol), Luteolin (-163.171 Kcal/mol), Eriodictyol-7-O-glucoside (-
160.13 Kcal/mol), Rosmarinic acid (-133.484 Kcal/mol) and Isoquercitrin (-131.493 Kcal/mol) are
among the top hits with the highest MolDock score along with hydrogen interaction with tyr 435.
Using the RF model, ten compounds out of 108 chemical constituent of Ocimum basilicum were
predicted to be active, Apigenin (1.0), Eriodictyol (1.0), Orientin (0.876), Kaempferol (0.8536),
Luteolin (0.813953) and Rosmarinic-Acid (0.7738095) are predicted to be most active with the
highest RF score.

Conclusion:

The comparison of the two screening methods show that the ten compounds that were
predicted to be active by the RF model, are also found in top hits of docking studies with the highest
score. The top hits obtained during this study are predicted to be the inhibitor of MAO-B, thus,
could be used further for the development of drugs for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Omalizumab for the Treatment of Persistent Drug Induced Urticaria Elicited by Thienopyridines: A Case Report
Authors: Calogiuri Gianfranco , Nettis Eustachio , Mandurino-Mirizzi Alessandro , Di Leo Elisabetta , Macchia Luigi , Foti Caterina , Vacca Angelo , Kounis Nicholas G.
Published: June 2020

The anti-IgE Omalizumab may be helpful to treat clopidogrel hypersensitivity
without stopping thienopyridine administration in patients requirining continuous antiplatellet
therapy after coronary stent placement.
Microbiological Detoxification of Mycotoxins: Focus on Mechanisms and Advances
Authors: Abdi Milad , Asadi Arezoo , Maleki Farajolah , Kouhsari Ebrahim , Fattahi Azam , Ohadi Elnaz , Lotfali Ensieh , Ahmadi Alireza , Ghafouri Zahra
Published: June 2020

Some fungal species of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium secretes toxic
metabolites known as mycotoxins, have become a global concern that is toxic to different species
of animals and humans. Biological mycotoxins detoxification has been studied by researchers
around the world as a new strategy for mycotoxin removal. Bacteria, fungi, yeast, molds, and protozoa
are the main living organisms appropriate for the mycotoxin detoxification. Enzymatic and
degradation sorptions are the main mechanisms involved in microbiological detoxification of mycotoxins.
Regardless of the method used, proper management tools that consist of before-harvest prevention
and after-harvest detoxification are required. Here, in this review, we focus on the microbiological
detoxification and mechanisms involved in the decontamination of mycotoxins.