bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alemu Ayinalem , Bitew Zebenay Workneh , Diriba Getu , Gumi Balako
Published: September 2021

The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is becoming a
challenge to the national TB control programs including Ethiopia.
Different risk factors are associated with the emergence of DR-TB.
Identifying these risk factors in a local setting is important to
strengthen the effort to prevent and control DR-TB. Thus, this study
aimed to assess the risk factors associated with drug-resistant TB in
Ethiopia. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and
Meta-analysis checklist was followed to conduct this study. We
systematically searched the articles from electronic databases and gray
literature sources. We used the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical
Appraisal tools to assess the quality of studies. Data were analyzed
using STATA version 15. We estimated the pooled OR along with 95%CI for
each risk factor. The heterogeneity of the studies was assessed using
the forest plot and I heterogeneity test. Besides,
we explored the presence of publication bias through visual inspection
of the funnel plot and Egger’s regression test. After intense searching,
we found 2238 articles, and 27 eligible studies were included in the
final analysis. Based on the pooled analysis of the odds ratio,
unemployment (OR; 2.71, 95% CI; 1.64, 3.78), having a history of the
previous TB (OR; 4.83, 95% CI; 3.02, 6.64), having contact with a known
TB patient (OR; 1.72, 95% CI; 1.05, 2.40), having contact with a known
MDR-TB patient (OR; 2.54, 95% CI; 1.46, 3.63), and having pulmonary TB
(OR; 1.80, 95% CI; 1.14, 2.45) were found to be the risk factors of
drug-resistant TB. While older age TB patients (OR; 0.77, 95% CI; 0.60,
0.95) including age above 45 years OR; (0.76, 95% CI; 0.55, 0.97), and
males (OR; 0.86, 95% CI; 0.76, 0.97) were found to had lower risk of
DR-TB compared to their counterparts. A previous history of TB treatment
is a major risk factor for acquiring DR-TB in Ethiopia that might be due
to poor adherence during the first-line anti TB treatment. Besides,
having contact with a known TB patient, having contact with a known
MDR-TB patient, having pulmonary TB, and being unemployed were the risk
factors of DR-TB in Ethiopia. Thus, active screening of TB contacts for
DR-TB might help to detect DR-TB cases as early as possible and could
help to mitigate its further transmission across the community.
The impact of Senjed (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.) peel aqueous extract on qualitative properties of cold-pressed sesame oil
Authors: Fathollahy Isa
Published: September 2021

The Senjed peel aqueous extract was added to sesame cold-pressed oil at
different concentration of 0, 100, 200, 500 and 750 mg/kg and compared
with TBHQ (200 mg/kg). The Senjed peel aqueous extract showed 9.55 ±
0.35% extraction yield, 58.17 ± 2.33% antioxidant activity, 573.31 ±
3.57 (mg GAE/100 g FW) total phenolic content, and 151.33 ± 2.67 (mg
CAE/100 g FW) total flavonoid content. The extract preserved 59.08% of
antioxidant activity after heating at 185 ℃ for 80 min. Increasing the
concentration of the extract caused a significant (p<0.05)
qualitative improvement in the oil samples. At all storage times, the
highest FFA%, peroxide and P-anisidine value belonged to oil samples
containing 0 ppm of Senjed peel aqueous extract and followed by 100,
200, 500 and 750 ppm, respectively. The highest oxidative stability
index was observed in oil samples containing TBHQ and 750 mg/kg
concentration of extract (both 15.39 h). Oil samples containing 750 ppm
of Senjed peel aqueous extract and TBHQ showed almost similar
qualitative characteristics. Results showed that Senjed peel aqueous
extract have antioxidant potential for stabilization of oils.
Evaluating restoration trajectories using DNA metabarcoding of ground-dwelling and airborne invertebrates and associated plant communities
Authors: Heyde Mieke van der , Bunce Michael , Dixon Kingsley , Fernandes Kristen , Majer Jonathan , Wardell-Johnson Grant , White Nicole , Nevill Paul
Published: September 2021

Invertebrates are important for restoration processes as they are key
drivers of many landscape-scale ecosystem functions, including
pollination, nutrient cycling and soil formation. However, invertebrates
are often overlooked in restoration monitoring because they are highly
diverse, poorly described, and time-consuming to survey, and require
increasingly scarce taxonomic expertise to enable identification. DNA
metabarcoding is a relatively new tool for rapid survey that is able to
address some of these concerns, and provide information about the taxa
with which invertebrates are interacting via food webs and habitat. Here
we evaluate how invertebrate communities may be used to determine
ecosystem trajectories during restoration. We collected ground-dwelling
and airborne invertebrates across chronosequences of mine-site
restoration in three ecologically disparate locations in Western
Australia and identified invertebrate and plant communities using DNA
metabarcoding. Ground-dwelling invertebrates showed the clearest
restoration signals, with communities becoming more similar to reference
communities over time. These patterns were weaker in airborne
invertebrates, which have higher dispersal abilities and therefore less
local fidelity to environmental conditions. Although we detected
directional changes in community composition indicative of invertebrate
recovery, patterns observed were inconsistent between study locations.
The inclusion of plant assays allowed identification of plant species,
as well as potential food sources and habitat. We demonstrate that DNA
metabarcoding of invertebrate communities can be used to evaluate
restoration trajectories. Testing and incorporating new monitoring
techniques such as DNA metabarcoding is critical to improving
restoration outcomes.
Egusi seed allergy confirmed using the basophil activation test
Authors: Harnik Erika , Jama Zainab , Kwok Matthew , Fox Adam , Santos Alexandra
Published: September 2021

We report for the first time the case of allergy to egusi seeds in an
atopic child of Nigerian origin with allergy to other seeds and nuts.
This case highlights the need to know and explore less common foods as
potential allergens, the importance of modified skin prick testing and
the basophil activation test to support the diagnosis of rare food
allergies and of awareness about world cuisine and exotic foods as
potential allergens.
The New Hybrid Method for Vulnerability Assessment in Floodplain Area due to Dam Break
Authors: Nekooie Mohammad Ali , Gholizadeh Saeed
Published: September 2021

Despite all the importance of dams, dam failure, always threatens
downstream areas by both natural and man-made sources and caused great
human and financial losses. Vulnerability analysis is one of the main
assessments to achieve a risk map and help policymakers reduce the
losses and consequences of the failure. Therefore, this study aims to
develop a new integrated hybrid model based on the security
vulnerability assessment (SVA) and hydraulic analysis of flood and
Source-Pathway-Receptor–Consequences (SPRC) approach. For SVA forms,
data were collected by questionnaires survey, and for flood mapping, the
open-source software, HEC-RAS was used. Geographical Information System
(GIS) was applied to a combination of layers based on the SPRC approach.
Five different scenarios were modeled to obtain the flood map due to a
dam break. Then, the output data from the HEC-RAS software were
transferred to the GIS software to be merged with other data achieved
from the survey based on the SVA approach. Finally, the risk map for a
case study was developed by this new hybrid approach. The results of the
modeling showed that the highest vulnerability was achieved by
residential areas and the lowest vulnerability is achieved by
agricultural land due to floods by the dam failure.
Quantifying the impact of data sharing on variant classification
Authors: Casaletto James , Cline Melissa , Shirts Brian
Published: September 2021

Many genomic variants are currently classified, but many more are
extremely rare, have minimal associated patient data, and are classified
as variants uncertain significance (VUS). Accumulating patient data such
as family history and de novo status can help classify variants.
Understanding potential timelines for data accumulation and variant
classification can inform reporting, diagnosis, and treatment decisions.
We modeled future clinical data observations with different strategies
for sharing and aggregating clinical evidence for variants across
multiple sequencing centers over time. Models illustrate how long it
takes for variants to be classified when evidence is or is not shared
between clinical laboratories and compared to when only variant
interpretations are shared. When sequencing centers share evidence the
probability of classifying a one in 100,000 pathogenic variant increases
from less than 25% to nearly 80% after one year and to nearly 100%
with 5 years of observations. Extremely rare variants have a low
likelihood of classification using clinical data even with optimal data
sharing. Sharing clinical evidence between laboratories will lead to
faster and more certain classifications. Modeling can effectively
illustrate the likelihood of variant classification under current
classification frameworks and may help define realistic provider and
patient expectations.
Parental segregation study reveals rare benign and likely benign variants in a Brazilian cohort of rare diseases
Authors: Quaio Caio Robledo , Ceroni Jose Ricardo Magliocco , Cervato Murilo Castro , Thurow Helena Strelow , Moreira Caroline Monaco , Trindade Ana Carolina Gomes , Furuzawa Cintia Reys , Souza Rafaela Rogerio Floriano de , Perazzio Sandro Felix , Dutra Aurelio Pimenta , Chung Christine Hsiaoyun , Kim Chong
Published: September 2021

Genomic studies may generate massive amounts of data, bringing
interpretation challenges. Efforts for the differentiation of benign and
pathogenic variants gain importance. In this article, we used
segregation analysis and other molecular data to reclassify to benign or
likely benign several rare clinically curated variants of autosomal
dominant inheritance from a cohort of 500 Brazilian patients with rare
diseases. This study included only symptomatic patients who had
undergone molecular investigation with exome sequencing for suspected
diseases of genetic etiology. Variants clinically suspected as the
causative etiology and harbored by genes associated with
highly-penetrant conditions of autosomal dominant inheritance underwent
Sanger confirmation in the proband and inheritance pattern determination
because a “de novo” event was expected. Among all 327 variants
studied, 321 variants were inherited from asymptomatic parents.
Considering segregation analysis, we have reclassified 51 rare variants
as benign (n=51) and 211 as likely benign (n=211). In our study, the
inheritance of a highly penetrant variant expected to be de novo for
pathogenicity assumption was considered as a non-segregation and,
therefore, a key step for benign or likely benign classification.
Studies like ours may help to identify rare benign variants and improve
the correct interpretation of genetic findings.
Bronchitis obliterans after severe pneumonia in children: a review of 34 cases
Authors: Zhou Rui , Dai Jihong
Published: September 2021

Abstract Background: This study aimed to describe the clinical
characteristics, pathogeny and bronchoscopic findings of 34 children
with bronchitis obliterans after severe pneumonia. Methods: Thirty-four
children diagnosed with bronchitis obliterans were retrospectively
studied at the Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University in
China between January, 2014 and October, 2020. The clinical
manifestations, pathogeny, lung computed tomography imaging and
bronchoscopic findings of the 34 children were reported. Results: In
children with bronchitis obliterans, repeated coughing, fever, wheezing,
tachypnea, and lung rales were common clinical manifestations.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) was the most common etiologic
agent, followed by adenovirus. The CT scan images included uneven lung
inflation(12/34), lung consolidation( 27/34), pulmonary
atelectasis(23/34), and pleural effusion(22/34). All children underwent
flexible bronchoscopy, and major types of airway findings were
identified: mucosal congestion, luminal longitudinal folds, mucosal
erosion or necrosis, hyperplastic changes, sputum emboli, bronchiectasis
and obliterative-like lesions. Conclusion: In conclusion, severe M.
pneumoniae pneumonia and adenovirus pneumonia appeared to have a higher
risk of development of bronchitis obliterans. Bronchoscopy can be used
as the main criterion for the diagnosis of bronchitis obliterans.
Bronchoscopy interventional treatment is an effective measure to quickly
recanalize the occluded lumen, but there is a risk of recurrence after
treatment. Children with severe pneumonia should undergo regular
follow-up and bronchoscopy to detect possible lumen occlusion in time.
Study in momentum space of phase-dependent effects on ionization of hydrogen atom interacting with short infrared laser pulses
Authors: ONGONWOU Fréderic , TETCHOU Hugues Merlain , EKOGO Thierry Blanchard , ABDOURAMAN Bakari , KWATO Moïse Godefroy
Published: September 2021

We examine above-threshold ionization spectra of model atomic hydrogen
in short infrared laser pulses by solving the one-electron
time-dependent Schr\“odinger equation in momentum space.
To bypass the difficulty of solving the time-dependent
Schr\”odinger equation with the interacting nonlocal
Coulomb potential, we have recently formulated an alternative
\emph{ab initio} approach [Ongonwou et al. Annals of
Physics {\bf 375}, 471 (2016)], which is relied on
the expansion of the atomic wavefunction and the interacting nonlocal
Coulomb potential on a discrete basis set of Coulomb Sturmians in
momentum space. As far as short infrared laser pulses are concerned, we
have numerically evaluated the photoelectron momentum distributions,
angular distributions and bound states populations. The results obtained
from our accurate new computationally method are compared against
predictions of other time-dependent calculations in the literature. This
new theoretical model shows its sensitivity to the carrier-envelope
phase of the laser pulse and captures the left-right dependence of the
emitted photoelectrons momentum and angular distributions. More
precisely, short pulses manifest significant dependence of the
differential ionization probability on carrier-envelope phase of the
laser pulse and broken forward-backward symmetry in the angular
distributions.
Incidence and Clinical Management of Atrial Arrhythmias in Patients with Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: Kowlgi Gurukripa , Giudicessi John , Barake Walid , Siontis Konstantinos , Bos Johan , Ackerman Michael
Published: September 2021

Background: Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT)
is a genetic arrhythmia syndrome characterized by
adrenergically-triggered ventricular arrhythmias, syncope, and sudden
cardiac death. Several small studies suggest that atrial arrhythmias
(AAs) are common in patients with CPVT. Objective: To determine the
incidence and type of AAs observed within a large, single-center cohort
of CPVT cases as well as the efficacy and durability of AA-directed
management. Methods: In this retrospective study, the electronic medical
record of 129 patients (52% female; average age at diagnosis 20.8 
15.3 years) with CPVT (95% with a putative CPVT1-causative RYR2
variant) between 01/2000 and 09/2019 were reviewed for
electrocardiographic evidence of AAs. Clinical features and efficacy of
pharmacologic and ablation therapy were assessed. Results: Overall,
10/129 (7.8%) CPVT patients, all RYR2 variant-positive, had evidence of
an AA (atrial fibrillation/flutter in 6, atrial tachycardia in 3, and
supraventricular tachycardia in 1). The median age at AA diagnosis was
23 (14.2-35.5) years. 8/10 of patients experienced symptoms attributed
to their AA, including inappropriate shocks. All patients were trialed
on anti-arrhythmics, including -blockers, and/or flecainide. Owing to
drug failure (1/10), drug intolerance (1/10), or patient preference
(2/10); 4/10 patients received an ablation. Over a median follow-up of
23.5 (4.5-63) months, no AA recurrences were observed. Conclusion:
Compared to prior studies, the incidence of AAs in this large,
single-center referral cohort of CPVT patients was substantially lower
(7.8% vs. 26%-35%). Although larger multi-center studies are needed
to confirm, this study suggests that ablation is efficacious and durable
in CPVT-associated AAs.
Ultrasound assisted in-situ separation of sophorolipids in multi-phase fermentation system to achieve efficient production of Candida bombicola
Authors: Chen Yang , Tang Xu , Li Ya , Liu Chang , Zhuang Yingping , Tian Xiwei , Chu Ju
Published: September 2021

Sophorolipids (SLs) are regarded as one of the most promising
biosurfactants. However, high production costs are the main obstacle to
extended SLs application. Semi-continuous fermentation, which is based
on in-situ separation, is a promising technology for achieving high SLs
productivity. In this study, the sedimentation mechanism of SLs was
analyzed. The formation of a hydrophobic mixture of SLs and rapeseed oil
was a key factor in sedimentation. And the hydrophobicity and density of
the mixture determined SLs sedimentation rate. On this basis, ultrasonic
enhanced sedimentation technology (UEST) was introduced, by which the
sedimentation rates were increased by 46.9% to 485.4% with different
ratio of rapeseed oil to SLs. UEST-assisted real-time in-situ separation
and semi-continuous fermentation were performed. SLs productivity and
yield were 2.15 g/L/h and 0.58 g/g, respectively, simultaneously the
loss ratio of cells, glucose, and rapeseed oil were significantly
reduced. This study provides the new horizon for optimization of the SLs
fermentation process.
Machine Learning models identify gene predictors of waggle dance behaviour in honeybees
Authors: Veiner Marcell , Morimoto Juliano , Leadbeater Elli , Manfredini Fabio
Published: September 2021

The molecular characterisation of complex behaviours is a challenging
task as a range of different factors are often involved to produce the
observed phenotype. An established approach is to look at the overall
levels of expression of brain genes – known as ‘neurogenomics’ – to
select the best candidates that associate with patterns of interest.
This approach has relied so far on a set of powerful statistical tools
capable to provide a snapshot of the expression of many thousands of
genes that are present in an organism’s genome. However, traditional
neurogenomic analyses have some well-known limitations; above all, the
limited number of biological replicates compared to the number of genes
tested – often referred to as “curse of dimensionality”. Here we
implemented a new Machine Learning (ML) approach that can be used as a
complement to established methods of transcriptomic analyses. We tested
three types of ML models for their performance in the identification of
genes associated with honeybee waggle dance. We then intersected the
results of these analyses with traditional outputs of differential gene
expression analyses and identified two promising candidates for the
neural regulation of the waggle dance: the G-protein coupled receptor
boss and hnRNP A1, a gene involved in alternative
splicing. Overall, our study demonstrates the application of Machine
Learning to analyse transcriptomics data and identify genes underlying
social behaviour. This approach has great potential for application to a
wide range of different scenarios in evolutionary ecology, when
investigating the genomic basis for complex phenotypic traits.
Echocardiographically-Derived Septal Positional Angle (EDSPA) as a Measure of Elevated Right Ventricular Systolic Pressure
Authors: Huang Jennifer , Hutchinson Zach , Burch Grant , Kelly Brendan , Madriago Erin
Published: September 2021

Background: Pulmonary hypertension is a significant yet rare disease
that can have many long-term consequences, including death. Cardiac
catheterization is the gold standard for measuring pulmonary artery mean
pressures (PAMP), but is invasive and risks potentially serious
complications. This study aimed to create a semi-quantitative,
non-invasive measure of PAMP using septal positioning. Methods: This
study was a retrospective study of patients with and without pulmonary
hypertension who had a transthoracic echocardiogram and cardiac
catheterization. Patients undergoing atrial septal defect closure
represented controls. Two blinded readers calculated the
“Echocardiographically-Derived Septal Positional Angle (EDSPA)” which
was compared to corresponding catheterization data including mean
pulmonary artery pressures. Results: A total of 159 children were
included, of which 151 had useable echocardiographic data. 40 children
were identified as having pulmonary hypertension while 111 children had
an atrial septal defect. Patient age ranged from a minimum of 54 days
and maximum of 19 years [mean 7.1 years (SD=5.30)]. Inter-observer
variability between two readers [Pearson correlation coefficient of
0.939 (p <0.001)] and intra-observer variability were low
[intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.95 and 0.96 for each
observer respectively]. An EDSPA of ≤39° predicted a
PAMP>20 mmHg (as measured by cardiac catheterization) with
a 76% sensitivity and 76% specificity (AUC 0.846). Conclusions: EDSPA
is a useful, non-invasive, and reproducible echocardiographic measure of
PAMP that is easy to perform. With a sensitivity and specificity near
80%, it has significant utility in screening for pulmonary hypertension
and determining which patients should undergo further invasive
diagnostic testing.
Evaluation of the Relationship Between Subcarinal Angle Values and Mortality in COPD Patients
Authors: Tutak Ayse Sahin , Fındıklı Hüseyin Avni , Çil Ercan
Published: September 2021

Abstract: Abstract Background: We aimed to investigate whether changes
occur in the subcarinal angle (SCA) in chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD) and examine the effects of such changes on mortality
rates. Materials and Methods: The study included 108 COPD patients; who
were followed up in the intensive care unit (ICU) in the period between
January 2018 and December 2018 and who had available posterior-anterior
chest X-rays (PA-CXRs), APACHE-II (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health
Evaluation-II) scores, and laboratory values in the electronic archiving
system. SCA values on PA-CXRs were recorded in the Picture Archiving and
Communication System (PACS). Patients were divided into two groups as
survivors and nonsurvivors. Results: In our study; congestive heart
failure, as one of the comorbid diseases with COPD, was found to be
associated with mortality (p: 0.011). Furthermore; APACHE-II scores (p:
0.001), SCA values (p: 0.025), elevated CRP levels (p: 0.01),
hypoalbuminemia (p: 0.018), and high creatinine values (p: 0.034) were
associated with mortality. Conclusions: Our results are compatible with
those of previous studies in the literature demonstrating that advanced
age, elevated CRP levels, APACHE-II scores, hypoalbuminemia, and high
creatinine values were all associated with mortality in COPD patients.
Furthermore, SCA was found to be narrower in nonsurvivors in our study.
We think that our study results will contribute to the literature
because this is the first study that demonstrated the association
between SCA and mortality in COPD patients.
Ventricular Sigmoid Septum as a Risk Factor for Anthracycline-Induced Cancer Therapeutics-Related Cardiac Dysfunction in Patients with Malignant Lymphoma
Authors: Nakayama Takafumi , Oshima Yoshiko , Shintani Yasuhiro , Yamamoto Junki , Yokoi Masashi , Ito Tsuyoshi , Wakami Kazuaki , Kitada Shuichi , Goto Toshihiko , Kusumoto Shigeru , Sugiura Tomonori , Iida Shinsuke , Seo Yoshihiro
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT Background Identifying risk factors for cancer
therapeutics-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) is essential for early
detection and prompt initiation of medial therapy for CTRCD. There has
been no study investigating whether the sigmoid septum is a risk factor
for anthracycline-induced CTRCD. Methods We enrolled 167 patients with
malignant lymphoma who received a CHOP-like regimen from January 2008 to
December 2017 and underwent both baseline and follow-up
echocardiography. Patients with LVEF ≤ 50% were excluded. CTRCD was
defined as ≥ 10% decline in LVEF and LVEF < 50% after
chemotherapy. The angle between the anterior-wall of the aorta and the
ventricular septal surface (ASA) was measured to quantify the sigmoid
septum. Results CTRCD was observed in 36 patients (22%). The average
LVEF and GLS were lower (61.6 vs. 65.0%, 18.7 vs. 20.3), LV mass index
was higher (101.1 vs. 92.8 g/m2), and ASA was smaller (112.1 vs. 119.4
degree) in patients with CTRCD. In a multivariable Cox proportional
hazard analysis, GLS (HR per 1% decrease 1.20, 95% CI 1.07-1.35, P =
0.002), ASA (HR per 1 degree increase 0.97, 95% CI 0.95-0.99, P =
0.003) and the history of ischemic heart disease (HR 5.13, 95% CI
1.94-13.56, P = 0.001) were identified as the independent determinants
of CTRCD. C-statistics analysis and integrated discrimination
improvement proved the significant incremental value of ASA for
developing CTRCD. Conclusion Smaller ASA was the independent risk factor
and had significant incremental value for CTRCD in patients with
malignant lymphoma who received the CHOP-like regimen.
From bed-side to web-side, Advanced-Telemedicine platform for Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: korn David , Berti Beatrice , Cambieri Andrea , scambia giovanni , sergi paolo , meneschincheri emilio , leone daniela , pera maria carmela , palermo concetta , Buonsenso Danilo , Onesimo Roberta , Rose Cristina De , Pane Marika , Mercuri Eugenio
Published: September 2021

We aimed to assess feasibility, accuracy, satisfaction of an
advanced-telemedicine (A-TM) platform designed for remote physical
evaluation, especially focused on lung auscultation, in spinal muscular
atrophy (SMA) patients. Children affected by type 1 and 2 SMA, typically
present generalized weakness, scoliosis, chest deformities the leading
cause of progressive respiratory insufficiency and recurrent
hospitalization. Covid-19 stimulated efforts to adopt innovative digital
health solutions especially when caring for people living with
disabilities. Because of chest asymmetry and scoliosis, SMA patients are
not always the ideal candidates for telemedicine tools that have proved
to be useful in the general population. 23 children affected by SMA (15
type 1 and 8 type 2) with different degree of scoliosis and chest
asymmetry. Prospective study: We localized optimal thoracic auscultatory
landmarks with traditional stethoscope and lung ultrasound for each
child. Carers were trained to record complete lung auscultation
independently and share data with our physicians via A-TM platform.
After the first remote exam, carers videorecorded their experience
(satisfaction). Our physicians blindly rated the audio files shared via
A-TM which were compared to traditional auscultation findings for each
child. to assess. Overall feasibility and accuracy of carers-performed
remote physical evaluation. Our study showed that remotely performed
lung auscultation was possible in all type 1 and 2 SMA children but
adaptations to find optimal landmarks were needed in cases with
asymmetrical or rotated chest and trunk. A-TM tools may simplify access
to care, reduce logistic/economic burden for families, improve
communication, safety and disease management while limiting infection
exposure.
Cavitary Lung Lesions in a Neonate: Potential Manifestation of COVID-19 related Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome
Authors: bakhle anish , sreekumar kavita , baracho bonny , sardessai sanjay , Silveira M.P.
Published: September 2021

Vertical transmission of the COVID-19 virus from mother to fetus seems
to be uncommon, but, the immunological response of the neonates exposed
to maternal infection in-utero, needs further research. The
hyperinflammatory state of Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children
(MIS-C) predisposes to thromboembolic complications, including pulmonary
thromboembolism (PTE). We report a neonate who had multiple cavitary
lesions in lung, which we suspect could be a manifestation of MIS-N
following maternal COVID-19 infection during pregnancy.
Characteristics and Pulmonary Computerized Imaging Findings of Critically Ill Egyptian Patients with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Authors: Ibrahim Hanan , Mohammad Shaimaa , Fouda Eman , Ahmed Khaled , Habeeb Nevin , Rezk Ahmed , Magdy Sondos , Allam Ahmed , Mahmoud sanaa
Published: September 2021

Objectives. This study was carried out to delineate the patients’
characteristics and the imaging findings and their relation to some
biochemical markers of 31 critically ill patients with MIS-C. Design. A
retrospective cross-sectional study including all critically ill MIS-C
children admitted to the PICU from June 23rd to July 22nd, 2020.
Results. Eighteen males and thirteen females, with a median age of 9
years (interquartile range 6-11) presented mainly with fever (100%) and
hypotension (100%). Abnormalities in the chest computed tomography were
detected in 22 cases (71%). Consolidation and architecture distortion
were detected in 58.1% of patients; bilateral lesions and lower lobe
infiltrates, each, were evident in 64.5% , while the peripheral
distribution of lesions was seen in 71% of the cases. Pleural
thickening and effusion were found in 51.6% of the patients. In this
small case series, the presence of high ferritin was significantly
associated with the bilaterality of the lesions. Elevated C-reactive
protein was associated with the peripheral distribution of the lesions,
in addition, thrombocytopenia and hypoalbuminemia were significantly
correlated with the CT disease stage and CT severity score respectively.
Conclusions. Short and long-term follow up of MIS-C cases is not only
needed for the follow up of clinical and laboratory abnormalities but
also for the elucidation of the outcome of CT pulmonary findings.
Quality of life assessment among Cystic Fibrosis patients in Palestine: Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Salah Samya , Rumman Nisreen , Nassar Amal , Khdour Maher , Hallak Hussein
Published: September 2021

Objective: To assess the quality of life (QoL) of Cystic fibrosis (CF)
patients in West Bank, Palestine using the Cystic Fibrosis
Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R) form. Method: A cross-sectional study
involving application of CFQ-R questionnaire in CF patients attending
pediatric pulmonology clinic at Caritas Baby Hospital (CBH). Their
health status was assessed by measuring different parameters including
pulmonary function test (FEV1) and body mass index (BMI). Results: The
sample consisted of 77 patients from 58 families: 46.75% were males.
Mean age was 10.7 years. Patients were divided into three groups by age
in years: group I (< 6), II (6-13), and III (≥ 14). The
highest and lowest CFQ scores were for the eat domain in group III
(55.56 ± 22.49) and the body domain in group II (14.48 ± 17.67),
respectively. Illness severity as measured by FEV1 mean value 69.6. BMI
mean value of 15.998. The overall mean age at time of diagnosis in our
sample was 4.16 years (± 6.239). The study showed that 1.7% of families
had four affected siblings and 21% had death cases related to CF.
Finally, all parameters for CF patients in West Bank, Palestine appear
to be noticeably lower than those reported in other countries.
Conclusions: quality of life for patients with CF is poor relative to
international standards, the medications used including hypertonic
saline and Gentamycin IV form used as nebulizer solution are not first
line therapies around the world. This study illustrates the need of new
therapies for CF patients in Palestine.
Synthesis of data from trials of interventions designed to change health behaviour; a case study
Authors: Rhodes Sarah Ann , Dias Sofia , Wilkinson Jack , Cotterill Sarah
Published: September 2021

Many complex healthcare interventions aim to change the behaviour of
patients or health professionals, e.g. stopping smoking or prescribing
fewer antibiotics. This prompts the question of which behaviour change
interventions are most effective. Synthesising evidence on the
effectiveness of a particular type of behaviour change intervention can
be challenging because of the high levels of heterogeneity in trial
design. Here we use data from a published systematic review as a case
study and compare alternative methods to address this heterogeneity. One
important sources of heterogeneity is that compliance to a desired
behaviour can be measured and reported in a variety of different ways.
In addition, interventions designed to target behaviour can be
implemented at either an individual or group level leading to trials
with varying layers of clustering. To handle heterogeneous outcomes we
can either convert all effect estimates to a common scale (e.g. using
standardised mean differences) or have separate meta-analyses for
different types of outcome measure (binary and continuous measures).To
address the clustering structure, adjusted standard errors can be used
with the inverse variance method, or weights can be assigned based on a
consistent level of clustering, such as the number of healthcare
professionals. A graphical method, the albatross plot utilises reported
p-values only, and can synthesise data with both heterogeneous outcomes
and clustering with minimal assumption and data manipulation. Based on
these methods, we reanalysed our data in four different ways and have
discussed the strengths and weaknesses of each approach.
Complex adaptive architecture of quantitative resistance erosion in a plant fungal pathogen
Authors: Dumartinet Thomas , Ravel Sébastien , Roussel Véronique , Vicente Luis Pérez , Aguayo Jaime , Abadie Catherine , Carlier Jean
Published: September 2021

Plant pathogens often adapt to plant genetic resistance so
characterization of the architecture under-lying such an adaptation is
required to understand the adaptive potential of pathogen populations.
Erosion of banana quantitative resistance to a major leaf disease caused
by polygenic adaptation of the causal agent, the fungus Pseudocercospora
fijiensis, was recently identified in the northern Caribbean region.
Genome scan and quantitative genetics approaches were combined to
investigate the adaptive architecture underlying this adaptation.
Thirty-two genomic regions showing host se-lection footprints were
identified by pool sequencing of isolates collected from seven
plantation pairs of two cultivars with different levels of quantitative
resistance. Individual sequencing and phenotyping of isolates from one
pair revealed significant and variable levels of correlation be-tween
haplotypes in 17 of these regions with a quantitative trait of
pathogenicity (the diseased leaf area). The multilocus pattern of
haplotypes detected in the 17 regions was found to be highly varia-ble
across all the population pairs studied. These results suggest complex
adaptive architecture un-derlying plant pathogen adaptation to
quantitative resistance with a polygenic basis, redundancy, and a low
level of parallel evolution between pathogen populations. Candidate
genes involved in quantitative pathogenicity and host adaptation of P.
fijiensis were highlighted in genomic regions combining annotation
analysis with available biological data.
Real-time geographic settling of a hybrid zone between the invasive winter moth (Operophtera brumata L.) and the native Bruce spanworm (O. bruceata Hulst)
Authors: Andersen Jeremy , Havill Nathan , Boettner George , Chandler Jennifer , Caccone Adalgisa , Elkinton Joseph
Published: September 2021

Hybridization plays an important and underappreciated role in shaping
the evolutionary trajectories of species. Following the introduction of
a non-native organism to a novel habitat, hybridization with a native
congener may affect the probability of establishment of the introduced
species. In most documented cases of hybridization between a native and
a non-native species, a mosaic hybrid zone is formed, with hybridization
occurring heterogeneously across the landscape. In contrast, most
naturally occurring hybrid zones are clinal in structure. Here we report
on a long-term microsatellite dataset that monitored hybridization
between the invasive winter moth, Operophtera brumata (Lepidoptera:
Geometridae), and the native Bruce spanworm, O. bruceata, over a 12-year
period. Our results document one of the first examples of the real-time
formation and geographic settling of a clinal hybrid zone. In addition,
by comparing one transect in Massachusetts where extreme winter cold
temperatures have been hypothesized to restrict the distribution of
winter moth, and one in coastal Connecticut, where winter temperatures
are moderated by Long Island Sound, we find that the location of the
hybrid zone appears to be independent of environmental variables and
maintained under a tension model wherein the stability of the hybrid
zone is constrained by population density, reduced hybrid fitness, and
low dispersal rates. Documenting the formation of a contemporary clinal
hybrid zone may provide important insights into the factors that shaped
other well-established hybrid zones.
Genomics of Serrasalmidae teleosts through the lens of microbiome fingerprinting
Authors: Sylvain François-Étienne , Normandeau Eric , Holland Aleicia , Val Adalberto Luis , Derome Nicolas
Published: September 2021

Associations between host genotype and the microbiome of holobionts have
been shown in a variety of animal clades, but studies on teleosts mostly
show weak associations. Our study aimed to explore these relationships
in four sympatric Serrasalmidae (i.e. piranha) teleosts from an
Amazonian lake, using datasets from the hosts genomes (SNPs from GBS),
skin and gut microbiomes (16S rRNA metataxonomics), and diets (COI
metabarcoding) from the same fish individuals. Firstly, we investigated
whether there were significant covariations of microbiome and fish
genotypes at the inter and intraspecific scales. We also assessed the
extent of co-variation between Serrasalmidae diet and microbiome, to
isolate genotypic differences from dietary effects on community
structure. We observed a significant covariation of skin microbiomes and
host genotypes at interspecific (R2=24.4%) and intraspecific (R2=6.2%)
scales, whereas gut microbiomes correlated poorly with host genotypes.
Serrasalmidae diet composition was significantly correlated to fish
genotype only at the interspecific scale (R2=5.4%), but did not covary
with gut microbiome composition (Mantel R=-0.04; only 6 microbiome taxa
involved). Secondly, we tested whether microbial taxa represent reliable
host traits to complement host genotypic variations in these species. By
using an NMDS ordination-based approach, we observed that subsets of the
skin and gut microbiomes selected by a machine-learning Random Forest
algorithm can complement host genotypic variations by increasing
significantly the average interspecific differentiation. The
complementarity of genome and microbiome variations suggests that
combining both markers could potentially benefit our understanding of
the evolution of Serrasalmidae in future studies.
High-temperature Cyclic Deformation Behavior and Damage-coupled Unified Viscoplastic Constitutive Model for a Ductile Cast Iron QTRSi4Mo1
Authors: Zhou Yu , Wu Zhenxing , Chen Xuedong , Fan Zhichao , Yu Jinwen , Jiang Heng
Published: September 2021

Isothermal low cycle fatigue tests for a ductile cast iron QTRSi4Mo1
were carried out at 500°C and 760°C. The results showed that it
exhibited initial cyclic hardening followed by saturation at 500°C,
while gradual cyclic softening occurred at 760°C due to a more
pronounced creep effect. A damage-coupled unified viscoplastic
constitutive model incorporating two nonlinear and one linear strain
range-dependent drag stress components was developed to model the
distinct strain range-dependent deformation behaviors. The piecewise
damage evolution law was introduced to reflect the slow linear and the
rapid nonlinear evolution characteristics during the damage development.
Furthermore, the parameter identification approach for the unified
viscoplastic model was proposed, including the initial estimates
combined with the genetic algorithm-based global optimization procedure.
The results showed that the proposed damage-coupled viscoplastic model
can simulate the cyclic deformation behaviors and predict the LCF
failure life of the ductile cast iron QTRSi4Mo1.
Peripheral administration of selective GlyT2 inhibitor, oleoyl-D-lysine, is analgesic in neuropathic but not acute or inflammatory pain models in mice
Authors: Wilson Bruce , Peiser-Oliver Julian , Gillis Alexander , Evans Sally , Alamein Claudia , Mostyn Shannon , Shimmon Susan , Rawling Tristan , Christie Macdonald , Vandenberg Robert , Mohammadi Sarasa
Published: September 2021

Background and Purpose: Changes to spinal glycinergic signalling are a
feature of pain chronification. Normalising those changes by inhibiting
glycine transporter-2 (GlyT2) is a promising treatment strategy.
However, existing GlyT2 inhibitors e.g. ORG25543 are limited by narrow
therapeutic windows and severe dose-limiting side effects such as
convulsions, and are therefore poor candidates for clinical development.
Experimental Approach: Analgesic and side-effect properties of
intraperitoneally administered oleoyl-D-lysine, a lipid-based GlyT2
inhibitor, were characterised in mice. Analgesia was assessed in models
of chronic neuropathic and inflammatory pain via the von Frey test, and
acute nociception via hotplate. Side effects were scored via numerical
rating scale, convulsions score, the Rotarod test and whole-body
plethysmography for respiratory depression. Key Results: Oleoyl-D-lysine
produced significant analgesia/anti-allodynia in the model for chronic
neuropathic pain but not for chronic inflammatory or acute pain. No side
effects were seen at the peak analgesic dose, 30 mg kg-1. Mild side
effects were observed at the highest dose, 100 mg kg-1, in the numerical
rating score, but no convulsions. These results contrasted markedly with
ORG25543, which produced significant analgesia only at the lethal or
near-lethal dose of 50 mg kg-1. At this dose, ORG25543 caused severe
side effects on the numerical rating score, severe convulsions, and
Rotarod impairment. Oleoyl-D-lysine (30 mg kg-1) did not cause any
respiratory depression, a problematic side effect of opiates.
Conclusions and Implications: Oleoyl-D-lysine safely and effectively
reverses neuropathic pain in mice. GlyT2 inhibitors may be better suited
to treating pain of neuropathic origin over other pain aetiologies.
DPYD polymorphisms c.496A>G, c.2194G>A and c.85T>C and risk of severe adverse drug reactions in patients treated with fluoropyrimidine-based protocols
Authors: Bozina Nada , Bilić Ivan , Ganoci Lana , Šimičević Livija , Pleština Stjepko , Lešnjaković Lucija , Trkulja Vladimir
Published: September 2021

Aim. Cancer patients with reduced dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD)
activity are at increased risk of severe fluoropyrimidine (FP)-related
adverse events (AE). Guidelines recommend FP dosing adjusted to
genotype-predicted DPD activity based on four DPYD variants
(rs3918290, rs55886062, rs67376798, rs56038477). We evaluated
relationship between three further DPYD polymorphisms
[c.496A>G (rs2297595), *6
c.2194G>A (rs1801160) and *9A c.85T>C
(rs1801265)] and the risk of severe AEs. Methods. Consecutive
FP-treated adult patients were genotyped for “standard” and tested
DPYD variants, and for UGT1A1*28 if irinotecan was
included, and were monitored for the occurrence of grade ≥3 (National
Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria) vs. grade 0-2 AEs. For
each of the tested polymorphisms, variant allele carriers were matched
to respective wild type controls (optimal full matching combined with
exact matching, in respect to: age, sex, type of cancer, type of FP,
DPYD activity score, use of irinotecan/UGT1A1, adjuvant
therapy, radiotherapy, biological therapy and genotype on the remaining
three tested polymorphisms). Results. Of the 503 included patients
(82.3% colorectal cancer), 283 (56.3%) developed grade ≥3 AEs, mostly
diarrhea and neutropenia. Odds of grade ≥3 AEs were higher in
c.496A>G variant carriers (n=127) than in controls
(n=376) [OR=5.20 (95%CI 1.88-14.3), Bayesian OR=5.24 (95% CrI
3.06-9.12)]. Odds tended to be higher in *6
c.2194G>A variant carries (n=58) than in controls (n=432)
[OR=1.88 (0.95-3.73), Bayesian OR=1.90 (1.03-3.56)]. *9A
c.85T>G did not appear associated with grade ≥3 AEs (206
variant carriers vs. 284 controls). Conclusion. DPYD
c.496A>G variant might need to be considered for inclusion
in the DPYD genotyping panel.
Can I Afford to Publish? A Dilemma for African Scholars
Authors: Mekonnen Addisu , Downs Colleen , Effiom Edu , Kibaja Mohamed , Lawes Michael , Omeja Patrick , Ratsoavina Fanomezana , Razafindratsima Onja , Sarkar Dipto , Stenseth Nils , Chapman Colin
Published: September 2021

With open-access publishing authors pay an article processing charge and
subsequently their article is freely available online. These charges are
beyond the reach of most African academics. Thus, the trend towards open
access publishing will shift the business model from a pay-wall model,
where access to literature is limited, to a pay-to-publish one, where
African scholars cannot afford to publish. We explore the costs of
publishing and the ability of African scholars to afford to publish as
open access. Three-quarters of the 40 top ecology journals required
payment for open-access publishing (average cost $3,150). Paying such
fees is a hardship for African scholars as grant funding is not
available and it is not feasible to pay the fees themselves as salaries
are low. We encourage funders and publishers to facilitate an equitable
publishing model that allows African scholars to make their research
available through open-access publishing.
A point mutation in Phytochromobilin Synthase alters the circadian clock and photoperiodic flowering of Medicago truncatula
Authors: Santangelo Soledad Perez , Napier Nathanael , Robson Fran , Weller James , Bond Donna , Macknight Richard
Published: September 2021

Plants use seasonal cues to initiate flowering at an appropriate time of
year to ensure optimal reproductive success. The circadian clock
integrates these daily and seasonal cues with internal cues to initiate
flowering. The molecular pathways that control the sensitivity of
flowering to photoperiod (daylength) are well described in the model
plant Arabidopsis. However, much less is known in crop species, such as
the legume family species. Here we performed a flowering time screen of
a TILLING population of Medicago truncatula and found a line with
late-flowering and altered light-sensing phenotypes. Using
RNA-sequencing, we identified a nonsense mutation in the
Phytochromobilin Synthase (MtPΦBS) gene, which encodes an enzyme
that carries out the final step in the biosynthesis of the chromophore
required for phytochrome (PHY) activity. The analysis of the
circadian clock in the MtpΦbs mutant revealed a shorter circadian
period, which was shared with the phyA mutant. The MtpΦbs
and MtphyA mutants showed downregulation of FT floral
regulators MtFTa1, MtFTb1/b2 and a shift in phase for morning and
night core clock genes. Our findings show that PHYA is necessary to
synchronize the circadian clock and integration of light signaling to
promote expression of the MtFT genes to precisely time flowering.