bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Social Capital Play a Role in Contracting Services of Family Doctors in China? Reflections Based on an Integrative Review.
Authors: Xu Xinglong , Antwi Henry Asante , Zhou Lulin , Mustafa Tehzeeb , Boafo-Arthur Ama
Published: September 2020

Background: The family doctors’ contract service problem is not about government management alone, but an interaction of a complex social environment. Consequently, the effect of contracted services of family doctors not only depends on policy incentives but also needs to win the participation, acknowledgement, and confidence of community residents. The purpose of this integrative review is to examine whether there is any significant evidence that social capital in the form of social networking groups and other forms of social groups have any positive impact on the acceptance and the effectiveness of family doctors' contractual services.Method: Research on qualitative, quantitative and hybrid methods published in peer-reviewed journals on the social capital role in the process of contract service of family doctors were eligible for inclusion. In view of the increasing attention paid to the contract service effect of family doctors during this period, a 10-year time scale was selected to ensure full coverage of relevant literature in the same period. In total, 809 articles were determined in the database retrieval results which were downloaded and transferred to the Mendeley reference application software.Results: Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria for this integrative review and the quality of the included studies were assessed using the published criteria for the critical appraisal of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Majority of the articles assessed reported that there was evidence of a positive link between social support, especially a sense of belonging and the presence of regular family doctors. The influencing factors of patients' contract behavior of studies conducted in China were social interaction of social capital, acceptance of the first contact in the community, year of investigation, and exposure to the public. Conclusion: The family doctor system should take the community as the carrier, integrate various social resources, improve the doctor-patient relationship, cultivate social network groups in the community, and accelerate the development of community construction, social capital (social network groups) can guide residents to use family doctor services to maintain health. Social capital can also help residents have a regular and reliable family doctor.
Immunoprecipitation and Mass Spectrometry Define TET1 Interactome During Oligodendrocyte Differentiation
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhang Kaixiang , Wang Jian , Liu Yuming , Liu Guangxin , Jin Weilin , Wu Shengxi , Zhao Xianghui
Published: September 2020

Ten-eleven translocation (TET) proteins, encoding dioxygenase for DNA hydroxymethylation, are important players in nervous system development and disease. In addition to their proverbial enzymatic role, TET proteins also possess non-enzymatic activity and function in multiple protein-protein interaction networks, which remains largely unknown during oligodendrocyte differentiation. To identify partners of TET1 in the myelinating cells, we performed proteome-wide analysis using co-immunoprecipitation coupled to mass spectrometry (IP-MS) in purified oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) and mature oligodendrocytes (mOLs), respectively. Following a stringent selection of MS data based on identification reliability and protein enrichment, we identified a core set of 1211 partners that specifically interact with TET1 within OPCs and OLs. Analysis of the biological process and pathways associated with TET1-interacting proteins indicates a significant enrichment of proteins involved in regulation of cellular protein localization, cofactor metabolic process and regulation of catabolic process, et al. We further validated TET1 interactions with selected partners. Overall, this comprehensive analysis of the endogenous TET1 interactome during oligodendrocyte differentiation suggest its novel mechanism in regulating oligodendrocyte homeostasis and provide comprehensive insight into the molecular pathways associated with TET1.
The role of genetic variants in FCGR2A on the risk of rheumatoid arthritis in the Han Chinese population
Authors: Yang Yonghui , Peng Linna , He Chunjuan , Xing Shishi , Li Dandan , Jin Tianbo , Wang Li
Published: September 2020

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory arthritis and is characterized by irreversible joint damage and deformities, which is largely caused by genetic factors. The aim of this study was to explore the role of FCGR2A polymorphisms with the susceptibility to RA in the Han Chinese cohort.Methods: We enrolled 506 RA patients and 509 healthy controls, with four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) successfully genotyped using Agena MassARRAY. Genetic models, haplotype analyses were applied to assess the association between FCGR2A polymorphisms and RA. And we evaluated the relative risk by odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) using logistic regression analysis.Results: The results revealed that FCGR2A rs6668534 was significantly related to an increased risk of RA in the overall (OR = 1.24, 95%CI = 1.04 – 1.48, p = 0.014). There was no any association found between the polymorphisms and RA risk at age > 54 years, while the two (rs6671847 and rs1801274) of the four SNPs possibly contributed to the susceptibility to RA at age ≤ 54 years. And the rs6668534 polymorphism conferred the increased susceptibility to RA in the male population. The haplotypes in the FCGR2A gene was significantly associated with the RA risk.Conclusions: Our research have demonstrated that the FCGR2A gene polymorphisms (rs6671847, rs1801274 and rs6668534) were implicated in RA susceptibility in the Han Chinese population.
SARS-COV2 Renal Impairment in Critical Care: A Retrospective Study of 42 Cases - Kid COVID Study
Authors: Barragan Antoine-Marie Molina , Pardo Emmanuel , Galichon Pierre , Hantala Nicolas , Gianinazzi Anne-Charlotte , Darrivere Lucie , Tsai Eileen S. , Garnier Marc , Bonnet Francis , Fieux Fabienne , Verdonk Franck
Published: September 2020

BackgroundThe new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection leads to 5% to 16% hospitalization in Intensive Care Units (ICU) and is associated with 23% to 75% of kidney impairments, including acute kidney injury (AKI), as a major prognosis factor. The current work aims to characterize the renal impairment associated to SARS-CoV-2 in ICU patients, to evaluate its risk factors and its relationship with morbidity and mortality. Methods Forty-two patients consecutively admitted to the ICU of a university hospital (Paris, France) who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between March 25, 2020 and April 29, 2020 were included and classified in categories according to their renal function. Complete renal profiles and their evolution during ICU stay were fully characterized in 34 patients. Factors associated with AKI were identified through univariate analysis.ResultsThirty-two patients (94,1%) met diagnostic criteria for intrinsic renal injury with a mixed pattern of tubular and glomerular injuries within the first week of ICU admission, that lasted upon discharge. During their ICU stay, 24 patients (57.1%) presented AKI which was associated with increased mortality (p = 0.007), hemodynamic failure (p = 0.022), and more altered clearance at hospital discharge (p = 0.001). AKI occurrence was associated with lower pH (p = 0.024), higher PaCO2 (p = 0.027), PEEP (p = 0.027), procalcitonin (p = 0.015), and CRP (p = 0.045) on ICU admission.ConclusionsCritical SARS-CoV-2 is associated with persistent intrinsic renal injury and AKI, which is a risk factor of mortality. Identifying SARS-CoV-2 patients at risk of AKI will help in modifying clinical practice in ICU. Trial registration In accordance with the French law on biomedical research, this study obtained the approval of an Institutional Review Board (“Comité d’Éthique de la Recherche en Anesthésie-Réanimation” under the reference IRB 00010254 ‐ 2020 ‐ 106). Patients were all informed of the possible use of their data in researches as well as their right and terms of objection. Data were collected and integrated anonymously into a secure database in accordance with the French CNIL MR-004 methodology (registration number 20200803123416).
Efficacy of Different Nucleoside Analog Rescue Therapies for Entecavir-Resistant Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Shang Jin , Zhou Juan , Liu Huan , Tu You , Ran Jinqiu , Bai Lang , Tang Hong
Published: September 2020

Background: Entecavir (ETV) is recommended as a first-line anti-HBV treatment. However, many chronic hepatitis B patients initiate anti-HBV treatment such as lamivudine and telbivudine with low genetic barriers in China, which leads to compensatory mutations and increases the rate of ETV resistance. The management of ETV resistance in China is an essential clinical issue. Methods: Patients from 2011 to 2017 with nucleos(t)ide analog resistance were screened and 72 patients with ETV resistance were included. These patients received different rescue therapies including an ETV and adefovir (ADV) combination therapy group (n = 25), a tenofovir (TDF) monotherapy group (n = 27), and an ETV and TDF combination therapy group (n = 20). Virologic, biochemical, and serologic responses were compared among the three groups.Results: The rate of ETV resistance increased form 6.04% in 2011 to 15.02% in 2017. Regarding the rates of negative HBV DNA at 48 weeks, no significant differences occurred in the TDF monotherapy and TDF combination groups (74.07% vs 70.00%), while the ETV and ADV group showed the worst virologic response (28.00%). TDF monotherapy and TDF combination therapy showed similar decline of HBV DNA at weeks 12, 24, and 48. There was no significant difference in the rates of HBeAg clearance, ALT normalization, and abnormal renal function between the three groups. Conclusions: TDF monotherapy showed a comparable virologic response to TDF and ETV combination therapy and a better virologic response than ETV and ADV combination therapy. Thus, TDF monotherapy is the preferred rescue therapy for ETV resistance.
Synergistic Effects of Vitamin D and Mindfulness Training in Pain Severity, Pain-Related Disability and Neuropathy-Specific Quality of Life Dimensions in Painful Diabetic Neuropathy: A Randomized Clinical Trial with Placebo-controlled
Authors: nia Roya taghadosi , davoudi mohammadreza , Ahmadi Seyyed Mojtaba , Taheri Amir Abbas
Published: September 2020

Background: This study aimed to examining Synergistic effect of Vitamin D (VD) Supplement and mindfulness on neuropathic pain severity, Pain-Related Disability and Neuropathy-Specific Quality of Life dimensions in painful diabetic neuropathy.Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, totally 225 patients with painful diabetic neuropathy were randomly allocated to five groups: (1) mindfulness and placebo, (2) placebo, (3) mindfulness, (4) VD, and (5) mindfulness and VD. Mindfulness training includes twelves sessions and VD patients received a daily four thousand IU oral dosage (four capsules) with 28,000 IU vitamin D weekly for 12 weeks. Laboratory analyses, Sun exposure time, Vitamin D intake, BMI and Physical activity measured in pre-test and posttest. Pain-Related Disability measured with The Pain Disability Index (PDI). For other outcome variables Neuropathy Specific Quality of Life questionnaire and Neuropathic pain severity scale was utilized.Results: In baseline, measures were not different among the groups. At the end-of-treatment, for outcome variables results showed improvement in all groups except the “placebo” group. About other groups, there was not any difference between VD and mindfulness groups (in and not combined with placebo). However, “VD + mindfulness” has a greater improvement rather than VD and mindfulness groups (P<0.05). Moreover, both protocols have no significant effects on, FBS, BMI and energy intakes (P>0.05).Conclusion: Combining VD and mindfulness can reduce pain severity and pain-related disability, so with these changes patients improve their quality of life.
A comprehensive evaluation of utilization potential of semiterrestrial isopods, Ligia exotica in China: a new aquatic feed?
Authors: Xu Lele , Li Yongqin , Liu Yao , Jiang Xiang , Sun Yulin , Mi Haifeng , Zhao Haiyong , Chen Daohai , Wang Liyun
Published: September 2020

Background: The semiterrestrial isopod, Ligia exotica represents one of the oldest documented species introductions of marine organisms and is known as an intermediate form between marine and strictly terrestrial isopods. In order to explore the practical value for food & feed of Ligia, this study focused on growth rate under laboratory rearing conditions and detailed analysis of the overall nutrient content of the species in comparison to two other aquatic food media (krill and fish meal). Results: Evaluation of the growth rate of juveniles suggests it is a relatively fast-growing species of the Ligiidae family. The essential amino acids content Ligia meal is the lowest but the proportion of flavor amino acids was higher. In particular, the content of taurine was much higher. Amino acid score and chemical score show that the most restricted amino acids of isopod meal are methionine and cysteine. The extremely unbalanced amino acid composition may affect the absorption and utilization by consumers. In terms of fatty acids, the total polyunsaturated fatty acids in isopod is very low. A total of 12 vitamins were examined. The VK1, VE, VB2, VB3, VB5 content of isopod meal were significantly higher than those of krill meal and fish meal. Similarly, most of the 11 mineral elements are the highest in isopod meal. Conclusions: Ligia offers potential as an alternative natural food source especially in aquaculture given the growth rate under culture and the overall nutrient content. But Ligia collected in most of the field would be deemed unfit for human consumption because of the relatively low nutritional value and heavy metal content exceeding the provided standard. Ligia isopods offer some potential to become a crustacean model animal for commercial aquaculture crustaceans, further study is warranted to elucidate its biological characteristics.
Patients’ values and other decisional factors regarding treatment of hypercalcemia of malignancy: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Bassatne Aya , Rahme Maya , Piggott Thomas , Murad Mohammad H , Hneiny Layal , Fuleihan Ghada El-Hajj
Published: September 2020

Background

Hypercalcemia of malignancy is the second most common cause of hypercalcemia and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Several treatment options are available including pharmacological therapy with bisphosphonates, denosumab, glucocorticoids, and calcimimetics, as well as conventional therapy with hydration and possibly calcitonin. While guidelines have previously considered treatment effects, no guideline has yet considered a range of contextual factors impacting recommendations for the management.
Objective

The aim of this study is to summarize the available evidence on important decisional factors for the development of guidelines for the treatment of hypercalcemia of malignancy. These include patient’s values and preferences, cost, acceptability, feasibility, and equity.
Methods/Design:

This is a systematic review of observational studies, case series, trials, reviews and qualitative studies involving treatment of adult patients with hypercalcemia of malignancy. We developed and executed two independent search strategies using five databases: Pubmed, Medline (OVID), Embase.com, CINAHL (EBSCO) and Cochrane, and reviewed their combined output. Two reviewers screened titles and abstracts and full texts and will implement data abstraction from relevant studies independently and in duplicate. The outcomes of interest are the decisional factors that influence drug selection, with possible subgroup analyses by drug class or etiology of hypercalcemia of malignancy. We will present the data collected in a narrative and thematic approach.
Discussion

This systematic review will identify important treatment decisional factors, and will assist guidelines panels, physicians and patients to decide on therapeutic options based on the current evidence.
Experimental demonstration of quantum advantage for NP verification
Authors: Centrone Federico , Kumar Niraj , Diamanti Eleni , Kerenidis Iordanis
Published: September 2020

We show the first experimental demonstration of a computational quantum advantage (also referred to as quantum supremacy) with linear optics, by studying the computational task of the verification of an NP-complete problem by a verifier who only gets limited information about the proof. We provide a simple linear optical implementation that can perform this task efficiently (within a few seconds), while we also provide strong evidence that a classical computer would take time greater than the age of the universe (assuming only that classically it takes exponential time to solve an NP-complete problem). The verification of NP-complete problems with limited information brings us a step closer to real-world useful applications, such as server-client quantum computing.
Effects of dietary style on adult enterovirus infection risk factors: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Yu Linghua , Wang Linlin , Yi Huixing , Wu Xiaojun , Sun Fei
Published: September 2020

Background: Gut microbiota serves as a defense against enteric pathogens, whereas dietary intake influences the composition and function of gut microbiota. We aimed to examine the impact of diet on the enteroviral infection in adult patients of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). Methods: A total of 266 adult patients of HFMD were recruited in this study, with 80 healthyvolunteers served as the control. Swab samples and clinical characteristics were collected. Enteroviral genotype was further assessed by PCR testing. Social-demographic data and dietary records were obtained through follow-up phone calls. Dietary patterns were derived with PCA analysis. Correlation between dietary patterns and clinical characteristics, enterovirus genotype, and HFMD risk factors were evaluated. Results:Three distinct dietary patterns were identified in the participants, which were modern, "atypical south", and "traditional north", respectively. This study found the dietary pattern of adult HFMD significantly differed from that of the controls. A vast majority of controls followed the modern pattern, which was a healthy diet. In contrast, the result showed unhealthy dietary patterns ('atypical south' and 'traditional north') were risk factors for adult HFMD. Besides, the dining place was a leading contributor to the dietary pattern. Our data showed eating at a food stall, or take-out is a risk factor of adult HFMD, whereas eating at the dining room is a protective factor. Conclusions:Our study indicated dietary pattern was associated with the incidence of adult HMFD. Improving the dietetic habit might contribute to HFMD prevention.
Head phantoms for bioelectromagnetic applications: a material study
Authors: Hunold Alexander , Machts René , Haueisen Jens
Published: September 2020

Background Assessments of source reconstruction procedures in electroencephalography and computations of transcranial electrical stimulation profiles require verification and validation with the help of ground truth configurations as implemented by physical head phantoms. Phantoms provide well-defined volume conduction configurations with realistic geometries.We aim to characterize the electrical conductivity of materials for modeling head compartments to establish reproducible and stable physical head phantoms. We analyzed sodium chloride (NaCl) solution, agarose hydrogel, gypsum and reed sticks as surrogate materials for the intracranial volume, scalp, skull and anisotropic conductivity structures. We measured the impedance of all materials when immersed in NaCl solution using a four-point setup. The electrical conductivity values of each material were calculated from the temperature compensated impedances considering the sample geometries. Results We obtained conductivities of 0.332 S/m (0.17 % NaCl solution), 0.0425 S/m and 0.0017 S/m (gypsum with and without NaCl), 0.314 S/m, 0.30 S/m, 0.311 S/m (2 %, 3 %, 4 % agarose). The reed sticks were tested in longitudinal and transversal direction and showed anisotropic conductivity with a ratio of 1:2.8. Conclusion We conclude that the tested materials NaCl solution, gypsum and agarose can serve as stable representation of the three main conductivity compartments of the head, intracranial volume, skull and scalp. An anisotropic conductivity structure such as a piece of white matter can be modeled using tailored reed sticks inside a volume conductor.
Relationships between test positivity rate, total laboratory confirmed cases of malaria, and malaria incidence in high burden settings of Uganda: An ecological analysis
Authors: Okiring Jaffer , Epstein Adrienne , Namuganga Jane F. , Kamya Victor , Sserwanga Asadu , Kapisi James , Ebong Chris , Kigozi Simon P. , Mpimbaza Arthur , Wanzira Humphrey , Briggs Jessica , Kamya Moses R. , Nankabirwa Joaniter I. , Dorsey Grant
Published: September 2020

Background: Malaria surveillance is critical for monitoring changes in malaria morbidity over time. National Malaria Control Programs often rely on surrogate measures of malaria incidence, including the test positivity rate (TPR) and total laboratory confirmed cases of malaria (TCM), to monitor trends in malaria morbidity. However, there are limited data on the accuracy of TPR and TCM for predicting temporal changes in malaria incidence, especially in high burden settings.Methods: This study leveraged data from 5 malaria reference centers (MRCs) located in high burden settings over a 15-month period from November 2018 through January 2020 as part of an enhanced health facility-based surveillance system established in Uganda. Individual level data were collected from all outpatients including demographics, laboratory test results, and village of residence. Estimates of malaria incidence were derived from catchment areas around the MRCs. Temporal relationships between monthly aggregate measures of TPR and TCM relative to estimates of malaria incidence were examined using linear and exponential regression models.Results: A total of 149,739 outpatient visits to the 5 MRCs were recorded. Overall, malaria was suspected in 73.4% of visits, 99.1% of patients with suspected malaria received a diagnostic test, and 69.7% of those tested for malaria were positive. Temporal correlations between monthly measures of TPR and malaria incidence using linear and exponential regression models were relatively poor, with small changes in TPR frequently associated with large changes in malaria incidence. Linear regression models of temporal changes in TCM provided the most parsimonious and accurate predictor of changes in malaria incidence, with adjusted R2 values ranging from 0.81 to 0.98 across the 5 MRCs. However, the slope of the regression lines indicating the change in malaria incidence per unit change in TCM varied from 0.57 to 2.13 across the 5 MRCs, and when combining data across all 5 sites, the R2 value reduced to 0.38.Conclusions: In high malaria burden areas of Uganda, site-specific temporal changes in TCM had a strong linear relationship with malaria incidence and were a more useful metric than TPR. However, caution should be taken when comparing changes in TCM across sites.
Selective Recovery of Precious Metals through Photocatalysis
Authors: Chen Yao , Xu Mengjiao , Wen Jieya , Wan Yu , Zhao Qingfei , Cao Xia , Ding Yong , Wang Zhong , Li Hexing , Bian Zhenfeng
Published: September 2020

Precious metals such as gold and platinum are valued materials for a variety of important applications, but their scarcity poses a risk of supply interruption. However, the dissolution and recovery of precious metals using the current methods are limited by associated serious environmental pollution and high energy consumption. Here, we show a photocatalytic process that allows one to selective retrieve 7 kinds of precious metal elements (Ag, Au, Pd, Pt, Ru, Rh and Ir) (with dissolution efficiency of 99%) from waste circuit boards, ternary automotive catalysts and even ores. Precious metals is recovered with high purity (≥98%) through a simple reductive method. The whole process only needs light and catalyst without strong acid, strong base and highly toxic cyanide. It has an environmentally friendly, scalable and efficient way, in which the catalyst has been recycled more than 100 times under normal temperature and pressure without performance degradation. It has successfully realized the scale of dissolution from grams to kilograms, and it is expected to realize large-scale recovery of precious metals in industrial application. This general approach provides an unprecedent technology for recycling resources on earth.
Investigation on Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Surface Characteristics Using Nano Grinding Wheel by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with Artificial Neural Networking (ANN)
Authors: Stephen Deborah Serenade , Prabhu Sethuramalingam
Published: September 2020

In this research work, surface characteristics of Ti-6Al-4V alloy have been investigated and the grinding process has been optimized using nano grinding wheel. Experiments have been conducted using L27 full factorial design. Surface roughness prediction model in nano grinding wheel for Ti alloy was developed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and compared with the model using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) methodology to predict the experimental behavior of the system. Grinding wheels with and without 3% nano Al2O3 powders were fabricated and their surface characteristics like surface roughness, material removal rate (MRR) and temperature were measured. Grinding was carried out on grade 5 Ti alloy with different wheels by varying input parameters. On comparing experimental and predicted results, it was found that the empirical values of surface roughness were close to the predicted values by 5%.
“I can’t live like that”: Reflections of caregiver distress from caring for an individual with problematic substance use
Authors: Maina Geoffrey M , Ogenchuk Marcella , Pharneuf Taryn , Kwame Abukari
Published: September 2020

Background: The impact of addiction extends beyond the individual using a substance. Caring for an individual with addiction creates persistent stressful circumstances that cause worry, anger, depression, shame, guilt, anxiety, and behavioral problems within the family unit.The aim of the study: The paper aims to explore the psychological impact when caring for individuals with active addictions and self-care strategies caregivers employ.Methods: The study adopted an exploratory qualitative design and used purposeful sampling to recruit study participants through posters, word-of-mouth, and e-mail. Study participants were required to have a family member living with addiction and not be active substance users themselves. In-depth individual interviews were conducted among 21 participants to gather their experiences, meanings, and interpretation of how it feels to provide care for a family member suffering from addiction and substance use.Results: Three themes, whose overarching focus is the pains that living and caring for a family with addiction caused the participants, are discussed. These included 1) caring experiences, 2) factors shaping caring experiences, and 3) self-care strategies.Conclusion: The stress associated with caring for individuals with addictions impacts the caregiver’s physical and mental health. Specific care modalities targeting caregivers need to be developed to address the health impact and to support self-care.
Does substrate colour affect the visual appearance of gilded medieval sculptures? Part I: Colorimetry and interferometric microscopy of gilded models
Authors: Wu Qing , Hauldenschild Meret , Rösner Benedikt , Lombardo Tiziana , Schmidt-Ott Katharina , Watts Benjamin , Nolting Frithjof , Ganz David
Published: September 2020

In history of medieval gilding, a common view has been circulated for centuries that the substrate colour can influence the visual appearance of a gilded surface. In order to fully understand the correlation between the gilding substrate and the colour appearance of the gold leaf laid above, in this paper (Part I) analytical techniques such as colorimetry and interferometric microscopy are implemented on models made from modern gold leaves. This study demonstrates that the substrate colour is not perceptible for gold leaf of at least 100 nm thickness, however the surface burnishing can greatly alter the visual appearance of a gold surface, and the quality of the burnishing is dependent on the substrate materials. Additionally, surface roughness and texture of the substrate can play supplementary roles, which can be visually observed through digital microscopy and quantified through interferometric microscopy. The findings in this paper will form the basis for the study of gold leaf samples taken from medieval European gilded sculptures in Part II.
Phenomic Characterization of Crotalaria Germplasm for Crop Improvement in Kenya
Authors: Muli Joshua Kiilu , Neondo Johnstone Omukhulu , Odari Eddy , Kuria Peter , Budambula Nancy L.M.
Published: September 2020

Background: Diversification of global food systems through exploration of traditional varieties and wild edible plant species is a focal mitigation strategy for food security worldwide. The present study determined the phenomic diversity of locally available, affordable and climate-resilient cultivated and wild Crotalaria species for breeding purposes. Seed samples were collected from different administrative counties in Kenya spanning different climatic zones. Other seeds were provided by the Genetic Resources Research Institute of Kenya. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used for agro-morphological evaluation of the 83 accessions used in this study. Data on quantitative and qualitative traits was collected. Cluster analysis on R and R-studio was used to generate a dendrogram by the Euclidian genetic distance and dissimilarity indices while the non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) method was used to determine the spatial interrelationship between the accessions. The Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to determine the relationships between qualitative and quantitative traits while the principal component analysis was used to discriminate the accessions. Results: Three edible species (C. brevidens Benth., C. ochroleuca G.Don, C. trichotoma Bojer.) were found to be cultivated by Kenyan farmers and a significant variation (p<0.0001) for all parameters under study was recorded. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering grouped the accessions into 8 major clusters. The NMDS ordination formed 15 and 6 groups based on counties and regions respectively. Conclusions: This study forms the basis for exploring novel breeding among cultivated species, between wild and cultivated Crotalaria species as well as determining molecular markers linked to phenomic traits.
Thioester synthesis through geoelectrochemical CO2 fixation on Ni sulfides
Authors: Kitadai Norio , Nakamura Ryuhei , Yamamoto Masahiro , Okada Satoshi , Takahagi Wataru , Nakano Yuko , Takahashi Yoshio , Takai Ken , Oono Yoshi
Published: September 2020

Thioester synthesis by CO dehydrogenase/acetyl-CoA synthase is among the most ancient autotrophic metabolisms. Although the preceding prebiotic CO2 fixation routes to thioesters are often suggested, none has any experimentally supported evidence. Here we demonstrate that, under an electrochemical condition realizable in early ocean hydrothermal systems, nickel sulfide (NiS) gradually reduces to Ni0, while accumulating surface-bound CO due to CO2 electroreduction. The resultant partially reduced NiS facilitates thioester (S-methyl thioacetate) formation from CO and methanethiol even at room temperature and neutral pH. This thioester formation can further be enhanced up to a selectivity of 56% by NiS coprecipitating with FeS or CoS. Considering the central role of Ni in the enzymatic process mentioned above, our demonstrated thioester synthesis with the partially reduced NiS could have a direct implication to the autotrophic origin of life.
Maternal Death Surveillance and Response in Tanzania: Comprehensiveness of Maternal Deaths Narrative Summaries and Action Points from Death Reviews
Authors: Said Ali , Pembe Andrea B. , Massawe Siriel , Hanson Claudia , Malqvist Mats
Published: September 2020

BackgroundReview of maternal deaths relies on comprehensive documentation of medical records that can reveal sequence of events that led to death. Maternal Death and Surveillance (MDSR) system recommends the use of narrative summaries during maternal death reviews to discuss the case and categorize medical causes of death, identify gaps in care and recommend action plans to prevent deaths. Suggested action plans are recommended to be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time bound (SMART). To identify gaps in documenting information and planning recommendations, comprehensiveness of written narrative summaries and adequacy of action plans according the MDSR guideline were assessed. MethodsA total of 76 facility maternal deaths that occurred in two regions in Southern Tanzania in 2018 were included for analysis. We assessed the comprehensiveness of narrative summaries and action plans using a prepared checklist from MDSR guideline of 2015. Presence or absence of items in four domains each with several attributes was recorded on the checklist. The domains were socio-demographic characteristics, antenatal care, referral information and events that occurred after admission. Less than 75% completeness of attributes in all domains was considered poor while >94% was good/comprehensive. Action plans were assessed by application of SMART criteria and according to place of planned implementation (community, facility or higher level of health system). Results Two-thirds of summaries (66%) scored poor, and none were scored as good/comprehensive. Summaries missed key information such as demographic characteristics, information of events that occurred in community (16%), time between diagnosis of complication and commencing treatment (65%), investigation results (47%), summary of case evolution (51%) and referral information (47%). A total of 285 action plans were analysed. Most action plans 242(85%) were allocated to health facilities for implementation and they were mostly 42(42%) on service delivery. Only 42% (32/76) of the action plans were deemed to be SMART.ConclusionsAbstraction of information to prepare narrative summaries used in MDSR system is inadequately done. Action plans and recommendations in MDSR system are mostly for facility sub standards of care and are not specific on the issues to be addressed.
Scaling relations of seismic moment and rupture area for outer-rise earthquakes
Authors: ZHANG XUELEI , Kito Tadashi , Hirata Kenji , Dohi Yuji , Fujiwara Hiroyuki
Published: September 2020

A new piece-wise scaling relation for rupture area ( S ) and seismic moment ( M 0 ) was obtained for outer-rise earthquakes using data compiled from previous seismological studies. The compiled source parameters were examined carefully to ensure that rupture area dimensions represent the "actual" rupture area. Twenty sets of S and M 0 pairs for ten earthquakes from independent studies were used for regression analysis. To estimate rupture areas of outer-rise earthquakes whose fault down dip tips, respectively, do and do not reach the oceanic lithosphere base, regression parameter b in S=(M 0 /a) 1/b is 2 with the corresponding regression parameter log 10 a 2 being 1.402 (±0.250), and b is 1.5 with the corresponding regression parameter log 10 a 1 being 6.401 (±0.187). The piece-wise scaling relation developed here can fit outer-rise earthquake data from Mw 7.2 to Mw 8.4 and can be used to estimate rupture areas of earthquakes greater than Mw 8.4.
Evidence-based health solutions for challenges women face during pandemics like COVID-19: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Su Zhaohui , Wagers Shelly , Lopez Emme , Terjesen Lori Ann , Abbas Jaffar , Shi Feng , Wang Caifeng , Cai Yuyang
Published: September 2020

Background

One of the most vulnerable populations to COVID-19 is women. Multiple factors associated with violence against women (i.e. sexual assault, domestic violence, homelessness) create an increased vulnerability for women during the COVID pandemic. Women also constitute the majority of older nursing home residents and healthcare workers (e.g., nurses), who have the most pronounced exposure to COVID-19. These factors combined with resource restraints like rationing and lack of access to healthcare can further exacerbate women’s physical and psychological health issues. While literature has well-documented challenges that women face during COVID-19, there is a lack of evidence-based solutions that have the potential to mitigate these difficulties. Therefore, to address this issue, we aim to conduct a systematic review of the literature to: (1) identify interventions designed for women in the context of pandemics, (2) describe the characteristics and effects of these interventions concerning the distinctive traits of women and pandemics, and (3) present evidence-based health solutions for women to mitigate challenges they face amid and beyond COVID-19.
Methods

A systematic review of literature will be conducted on databases including PubMed, PsycINFO on the EBSCO platform, CINAHL on the EBSCO platform, and Scopus, based on a search strategy developed in consultation with an experienced medical librarian. Titles, abstracts, and full-text articles will be screened against eligibility criteria developed a priori. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses procedures will be adopted as the reporting framework, and data extracted (e.g., intervention details) will be evaluated by a multidisciplinary research team.
Results
NA for now—This is a protocol study.
Conclusions

Findings of this study will fill an important void in the literature. Considering that, in times of pandemic, women are especially subject to grim health disparities, like pronounced exposure to COVID-19, reproductive health issues, elevated domestic violence, increased mental health challenges, and lack of access to healthcare services, the need for evidence-based health solutions that could address these unique challenges is of paramount importance. A comprehensive understanding of the characteristics and effects of health solutions available to women in the context of pandemics can also help researchers identify areas of improvement regarding intervention design and development. This may further safeguard women’s health and wellbeing amid pandemics like COVID-19 and beyond.
Study Protocol Registration:
PROSPERO CRD42020194003
TIP60 governs the auto-ubiquitination of UHRF1 through USP7 dissociation from the UHRF1/USP7 complex
Authors: Ahmad Tanveer , Ashraf Waseem , Ibrahim Abdulkhaleg , Zaayter Liliyana , Muller Christian D. , Hamiche Ali , Mély Yves , Bronner Christian , Mousli Marc
Published: September 2020

Background: The epigenetic regulator UHRF1 (Ubiquitin-like, containing PHD and RING finger domains 1) plays an essential role in faithful transmission of DNA methylation during replication. It has tumorogenesis potential and is overexpressed in cancers. TIP60 (Tat interactive protein, 60 kDa) is an important partner of UHRF1, ensuring various cellular processes through its acetyltransferase activity. TIP60 is believed to exert a tumor suppressive role partly explained by its down-regulation in many cancers. Both proteins participate in various cellular functions such as chromatin remodeling, cell cycle, DNA damage repair and regulation of protein stability.Methods: Immunoprecipitation and confocal microscopy techniques were performed to study the ubiquitination of UHRF1 and USP-UHRF1 association. Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) technique was performed to analyze the interaction between UHRF1 and ubiquitin inside the nucleus. Western blotting was used to assess the effect of TIP60 overexpression on p73, pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins. TIP60-mediated apoptosis in HeLa cells was investigated by flow cytometry. Results were statistically analyzed using Graphpad prism.Results: Herein, our goal was to investigate the role and mechanism of TIP60 in the regulation of UHRF1 expression. Our results showed that TIP60 overexpression down-regulated UHRF1 and DNMT1 (DNA methyltransferase 1) expressions. TIP60 interfered with USP7-UHRF1 association and induced degradation of UHRF1 in an auto-ubiquitination dependent pathway. Moreover, TIP60 activated the p73-mediated apoptotic pathway.Conclusion: Taken together, our data suggest that the tumor suppressor role of TIP60 is mediated by its regulation to UHRF1.
Nrf2 overexpression increases risk of high tumor mutation burden in acute myeloid leukemia through inhibiting MSH2
Authors: Liu Ping , Ma Dan , Wang Ping , Pan Chengyun , Fang Qin , Wang Jishi
Published: September 2020

Background: Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2, also called NFE2L2) has been shown to play a pivotal role in preventing cancer cells from being affected by chemotherapy. Gene mutation is a crucial reason of chemotherapy-resistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, the relationship between Nrf2 and tumor mutation burden and its mechanism in regulating chemotherapy-resistance remains unclear. Methods: The whole-exome sequencing analysis were used to measure tumor mutation. RNA sequencing, Oncomine, qRT-PCR, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry were employed to detect differences in genes and proteins. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis and GeneMANIN were performed pathway analysis. Functional assays, such as annexin V/PI, Hoechst33342 staining and DCFH were performed to examine the apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) of AML cells in vitro. Subcutaneous xenograft model was established to investigate in vivo growth. Results: Nrf2 expression was associated with tumor mutation burden in AML. Patients with Nrf2 overexpression had higher frequency of gene mutation and drug resistance. Nrf2 overexpression protected the AML cells from apoptosis induced by cytarabine in vitro and increased the risk of gene mutant drug resistance in vivo. Furthermore, Nrf2 overexpression inhibited MSH2 protein expression, which caused DNA mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency. Mechanistically, the inhibition of MSH2 by Nrf2 was in a ROS-independent manner. Further studies showed that an increased activation of JNK/c-Jun signaling in Nrf2 overexpression cells, which inhibited the expression of MSH2 protein. Conclusions: Our findings provided evidence that high Nrf2 expression inhibited MSH2 expression, caused MMR deficiency and increased the tumor mutation burden, which can induce gene instability-dependent drug resistance in AML. This study demonstrates the reason why the high Nrf2 expression leads to the increase of gene mutation frequency in AML, and provides a new strategy for clinical practice.
PD-1 upregulation enhances the immunosuppression of group 2 innate lymphoid cells by boosting IL-4 and IL-13 secretion in human non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Liu Chaojun , Shen Chunyi , Zhang Zhen , Ping Yu , Shao Jingwen , Tian Yonggui , Yu Weina , Qin Guohui , Liu Shasha , Wang Liping , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2020

Background: There is increasing evidence that group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) play an essential role in allergy and parasitic infection. However, the role of ILC2s in human lung cancer remains unclear. Methods: ILC2s from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from healthy donors (HDs) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, and NSCLC tumor tissues were analyzed via multicolor flow cytometry. ILC2s or CD14 + cells were sorted by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. qPCR and flow cytometry were performed to assess the gene and protein expression of the indicated molecules. M1-like and M2-like macrophages were induced from CD14 + monocytes in vitro. Results: ILC2s were significantly more enriched in PBMCs and tumor tissues from NSCLC patients than in HDs. After screening for the main immune checkpoint molecules, we found that PD-1 was upregulated in ILC2s in NSCLC patients. Functionally, PD-1 high ILC2s from tumor tissues expressed higher levels of IL-4 and IL-13 regarding both mRNA and protein levels than PD-1 low ILC2s. Furthermore, PD-1 high ILC2s robustly boosted M2-like macrophage polarization in vitro, by secreting IL-4 and IL-13, while neutralization of IL-4 and IL-13 by antibodies abrogated M2-like macrophage polarization. Conclusion: ILC2s are enriched in NSCLC patients and upregulate PD-1 expression. Upregulation of PD-1 facilitates the immunosuppressive function of ILC2s. PD-1 high ILC2s enhance M2-like macrophage polarization by secreting IL-4 and IL-13. PD-1 acts as a positive regulator of the immunosuppressive function of ILC2s in human NSCLC.
Novel systems analysis elucidates the influence of personalized variation in microbiome composition on metronidazole efficacy in bacterial vaginosis
Authors: Lee Christina , Cheu Ryan , Lemke Melissa , Gustin Andrew , France Michael , Hampel Benjamin , Thurman Andrea , Doncel Gustavo , Ravel Jacques , Klatt Nichole , Arnold Kelly
Published: September 2020

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a syndrome of the female reproductive tract associated with adverse reproductive outcomes and characterized by a shift from a Lactobacillus (LB)-dominant vaginal microbiota to a polymicrobial, anaerobic microbiota, consistently colonized by strains of Gardnerella vaginalis (Gv). The first-line treatment for BV is metronidazole (MNZ); however, treatment failure and recurrence rates remain high. To gain insight into complex interactions between target species (Gv) and non-target Lactobacillus species (Lactobacillus iners (Li)) with MNZ and understand their respective roles in efficacy, we developed an ordinary differential equation model that predicts bacterial growth as a function of drug uptake, metabolism, proliferation, and MNZ sensitivity. Model findings revealed a critical factor in MNZ efficacy may be Li sequestration of MNZ, and that efficacy decreases when the relative abundance of Li is higher pre-treatment. These results were validated in Gv and Li co-cultures (p < 0.001), and in two clinical cohorts, finding women with recurrent BV had significantly lower pre-treatment levels of BV-associated bacteria relative to Lactobacillus spp. (p = 0.0366; p = 0.0484). Overall, model results support a mechanism where non-target Lactobacillus species sequester MNZ from BV-associated target species, such as Gv, promoting BV recurrence by reducing MNZ bioavailability.