bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc supported on acid-activated montmorillonite for aromatization reactions
Authors: Zhao Yong-Hua , Luo Hong-Xu , Wang Huan , Huang Gui-Qiu
Published: November 2020

A Na-montmorillonite (Na-MMT) was activated with HNO3 (20 wt.%) solution at various temperatures and times to obtain acid-activated MMT (Acid-MMT). Zinc (4 wt.%) was supported on Acid-MMT via the impregnation method using Zn(NO3)2⋅6H2O as a precursor. The catalytic performance of the Zn/Acid-MMT for the aromatization of heptane was investigated. The amount and distribution of acidity of Acid-MMT, which could be adjusted by changing the acid activation time and temperature, significantly affected the heptane conversion and aromatics content. As a result, an efficient Zn/Acid-MMT catalyst for the aromatization reaction was obtained by optimizing the acid-treatment conditions of Na-MMT.
Long noncoding RNA HCG18 inhibits the differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in osteoporosis by targeting miR-30a-5p/NOTCH1 axis
Authors: Che Mingxue , Gong Weiquan , Zhao Yao , Liu Mingxi
Published: November 2020

Background

Recent studies have demonstrated that long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) can influence bone cell differentiation and formation. However, it is unclear whether lncRNA HCG18 is involved in osteoporosis (OP). This study was conducted to investigate the regulation of HCG18 in osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs).

Methods

BMSCs were isolated and cultured from mouse pathological models and osteoporosis patients. RT-qPCR was performed to detect the expression of HCG18 and miR-30a-5p in BMSCs. The interaction between HCG18 and miR-30a-5p was analyzed by dual luciferase assay and RNA pulldown assay. The interaction between miR-30a-5p and NOTCH1 3′-UTR was analyzed by dual luciferase assay. RT-qPCR and Western blotting were used to detect the expression of osteogenic genes Runx2, OCN and OPN. Hindlimb-unloaded (HU) mice model was established, and HCG18 was knocked down on bone-formation surfaces by using lentivirus mediated shRNA transfection.

Results

The expression of HCG18 was increased in BMSCs of OP patients, while the expression of miR-30a-5p was decreased. The expression of HCG18 and miR-30a-5p was negatively correlated in BMSCs. During the differentiation from BMSCs to osteoblasts, the expression of HCG18 was significantly downregulated, and the expression of miR-30a-5p was significantly upregulated. Overexpression of HCG18 was able to reverse the osteogenic-induced upregulation of miR-30a-5p expression, and knockdown of HCG18 further promoted the expression of miR-30a-5p. In addition, miR-30a-5p partially abolished the effect of HCG18 on osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. NOTCH1 was a target protein of miR-30a-5p, and upregulation of NOTCH1 reversed the effect of miR-30a-5p on osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Furthermore, this study found that lentivirus mediated HCG18 knockdown on the bone-formation surfaces of hindlimb-unloaded (HU) mice partially alleviated unloading-induced bone loss

Conclusions

HCG18 inhibited osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs induced by OP via the miR-30a-5p/NOTCH1 axis. HCG18 can be identified as a regulator of osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs.
High quality genome assemblies of Mycoplasma bovis using a taxon-specific Bonito basecaller for MinION and Flongle long-read nanopore sequencing
Authors: Vereecke Nick , Bokma Jade , Haesebrouck Freddy , Nauwynck Hans , Boyen Filip , Pardon Bart , Theuns Sebastiaan
Published: November 2020

Background

Implementation of Third-Generation Sequencing approaches for Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) all-in-one diagnostics in human and veterinary medicine, requires the rapid and accurate generation of consensus genomes. Over the last years, Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) released various new devices (e.g. the Flongle R9.4.1 flow cell) and bioinformatics tools (e.g. the in 2019-released Bonito basecaller), allowing cheap and user-friendly cost-efficient introduction in various NGS workflows. While single read, overall consensus accuracies, and completeness of genome sequences has been improved dramatically, further improvements are required when working with non-frequently sequenced organisms like Mycoplasma bovis. As an important primary respiratory pathogen in cattle, rapid M. bovis diagnostics is crucial to allow timely and targeted disease control and prevention. Current complete diagnostics (including identification, strain typing, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) detection) require combined culture-based and molecular approaches, of which the first can take 1–2 weeks. At present, cheap and quick long read all-in-one WGS approaches can only be implemented if increased accuracies and genome completeness can be obtained.

Results

Here, a taxon-specific custom-trained Bonito v.0.1.3 basecalling model (custom-pg45) was implemented in various WGS assembly bioinformatics pipelines. Using MinION sequencing data, we showed improved consensus accuracies up to Q45.2 and Q46.7 for reference-based and Canu de novo assembled M. bovis genomes, respectively. Furthermore, the custom-pg45 model resulted in mean consensus accuracies of Q45.0 and genome completeness of 94.6% for nine M. bovis field strains. Improvements were also observed for the single-use Flongle sequencer (mean Q36.0 accuracies and 80.3% genome completeness).

Conclusions

These results implicate that taxon-specific basecalling of MinION and single-use Flongle Nanopore long reads are of great value to be implemented in rapid all-in-one WGS tools as evidenced for Mycoplasma bovis as an example.
Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed resistance differences of Cavendish bananas to Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense race1 and race4
Authors: Dong Honghong , Ye Yiting , Guo Yongyi , Li Huaping
Published: November 2020

Background

Banana Fusarium wilt is a devastating disease of bananas caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) and is a serious threat to the global banana industry. Knowledge of the pathogenic molecular mechanism and interaction between the host and Foc is limited.

Results

In this study, we confirmed the changes of gene expression and pathways in the Cavendish banana variety ‘Brazilian’ during early infection with Foc1 and Foc4 by comparative transcriptomics analysis. 1862 and 226 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in ‘Brazilian’ roots at 48 h after inoculation with Foc1 and Foc4, respectively. After Foc1 infection, lignin and flavonoid synthesis pathways were enriched. Glucosinolates, alkaloid-like compounds and terpenoids were accumulated. Numerous hormonal- and receptor-like kinase (RLK) related genes were differentially expressed. However, after Foc4 infection, the changes in these pathways and gene expression were almost unaffected or weakly affected. Furthermore, the DEGs involved in biological stress-related pathways also significantly differed after infection within two Foc races. The DEGs participating in phenylpropanoid metabolism and cell wall modification were also differentially expressed. By measuring the expression patterns of genes associated with disease defense, we found that five genes that can cause hypersensitive cell death were up-regulated after Foc1 infection. Therefore, the immune responses of the plant may occur at this stage of infection.

Conclusion

Results of this study contribute to the elucidation of the interaction between banana plants and Foc and to the development of measures to prevent banana Fusarium wilt.
Genome-wide identification, and phylogenetic and expression profiling analyses, of XTH gene families in Brassica rapa L. and Brassica oleracea L.
Authors: Wu Di , Liu Anqi , Qu Xiaoyu , Liang Jiayi , Song Min
Published: November 2020

Background

Xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase genes (XTHs) are a multigene family and play key roles in regulating cell wall extensibility in plant growth and development. Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea contain XTHs, but detailed identification and characterization of the XTH family in these species, and analysis of their tissue expression profiles, have not previously been carried out.

Results

In this study, 53 and 38 XTH genes were identified in B. rapa and B. oleracea respectively, which contained some novel members not observed in previous studies. All XTHs of B. rapa, B. oleracea and Arabidopsis thaliana could be classified into three groups, Group I/II, III and the Early diverging group, based on phylogenetic relationships. Gene structures and motif patterns were similar within each group. All XTHs in this study contained two characteristic conserved domains (Glyco_hydro and XET_C). XTHs are located mainly in the cell wall but some are also located in the cytoplasm. Analyses of the mechanisms of gene family expansion revealed that whole-genome triplication (WGT) events and tandem duplication (TD) may have been the major mechanisms accounting for the expansion of the XTH gene family. Interestingly, TD genes all belonged to Group I/II, suggesting that TD was the main reason for the largest number of genes being in these groups. B. oleracea had lost more of the XTH genes, the conserved domain XET_C and the conserved active-site motif EXDXE compared with B. rapa, consistent with asymmetrical evolution between the two Brassica genomes. A majority of XTH genes exhibited different tissue-specific expression patterns based on RNA-seq data analyses. Moreover, there was differential expression of duplicated XTH genes in the two species, indicating that their functional differentiation occurred after B. rapa and B. oleracea diverged from a common ancestor.

Conclusions

We carried out the first systematic analysis of XTH gene families in B. rapa and B. oleracea. The results of this investigation can be used for reference in further studies on the functions of XTH genes and the evolution of this multigene family.
Small RNA sequencing of extracellular vesicles identifies circulating miRNAs related to inflammation and oxidative stress in HIV patients
Authors: Chettimada Sukrutha , Lorenz David R. , Misra Vikas , Wolinsky Steven M. , Gabuzda Dana
Published: November 2020

Background

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized particles secreted by most cells. EVs carry nucleic acids that hold promise as potential biomarkers in various diseases. Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV) infects CD4+ T cells and induces immune dysfunction, inflammation, and EV secretion, but little is known about EV small RNA cargo in relation to immune dysregulation in HIV-infected individuals. Here, we characterize small RNA carried by circulating EVs in HIV-positive subjects on antiretroviral therapy (ART) relative to uninfected controls by next-generation RNA sequencing.

Results

Plasma EVs isolated from HIV-positive and HIV-negative subjects in test (n = 24) and validation (n = 16) cohorts were characterized by electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and immunoblotting for exosome markers. EVs were more abundant in plasma from HIV-positive compared to HIV-negative subjects. Small RNA sequencing of plasma EVs in the test cohort identified diverse small RNA species including miRNA, piRNA, snRNA, snoRNA, tRNA, and rRNA, with miRNA being the most abundant. A total of 351 different miRNAs were detected in plasma EVs, with the top 50 miRNAs accounting for 90% of all miRNA reads. miR-26a-5p was the most abundant miRNA, followed by miR-21-5p and miR-148-3p. qRT-PCR analysis showed that six miRNAs (miR-10a-5p, − 21-5p, −27b-3p, − 122-5p, −146a-5p, − 423-5p) were significantly increased in plasma EVs from HIV-positive compared to HIV-negative subjects in the validation cohort. Furthermore, miR-21-5p, −27b-3p, −146a-5p, and − 423-5p correlated positively with metabolite markers of oxidative stress and negatively with anti-inflammatory polyunsaturated fatty acids. Over-representation and pathway enrichment analyses of miRNAs and their target genes predicted functional association with oxidative stress responses, interferon gamma signaling, Toll-like receptor signaling, TGF beta signaling, and Notch signaling.

Conclusions

HIV-positive individuals on ART have increased abundance of circulating EVs carrying diverse small RNAs, with miRNAs being the most abundant. Several miRNAs associated with inflammation and oxidative stress are increased in circulating EVs of HIV-positive individuals, representing potential biomarkers of targetable pathways that contribute to disease pathogenesis.
Simultaneous induction of mutant alleles of two allergenic genes in soybean by using site-directed mutagenesis
Authors: Sugano Shota , Hirose Aya , Kanazashi Yuhei , Adachi Kohei , Hibara Miki , Itoh Takeshi , Mikami Masafumi , Endo Masaki , Hirose Sakiko , Maruyama Nobuyuki , Abe Jun , Yamada Tetsuya
Published: November 2020

Background

Soybean (Glycine max) is a major protein crop, because soybean protein has an amino acid score comparable to that of beef and egg white. However, many allergens have been identified among soybean proteins. A decrease in allergenic protein levels would be useful for expanding the market for soybean proteins and processed foods. Recently, the CRISPR/Cas9 system has been adopted as a powerful tool for the site-directed mutagenesis in higher plants. This system is expected to generate hypoallergenic soybean varieties.

Results

We used two guide RNAs (gRNAs) and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation for simultaneous site-directed mutagenesis of two genes encoding the major allergens Gly m Bd 28 K and Gly m Bd 30 K in two Japanese soybean varieties, Enrei and Kariyutaka. We obtained two independent T0 Enrei plants and nine T0 Kariyutaka plants. Cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) analysis revealed that mutations were induced in both targeted loci of both soybean varieties. Sequencing analysis showed that deletions were the predominant mutation type in the targeted loci. The Cas9-free plants carrying the mutant alleles of the targeted loci with the transgenes excluded by genetic segregation were obtained in the T2 and T3 generations. Variable mutational spectra were observed in the targeted loci even in T2 and T3 progenies of the same T0 plant. Induction of multiple mutant alleles resulted in six haplotypes in the Cas9-free mutants derived from one T0 plant. Immunoblot analysis revealed that no Gly m Bd 28 K or Gly m Bd 30 K protein accumulated in the seeds of the Cas9-free plants. Whole-genome sequencing confirmed that a Cas9-free mutant had also no the other foreign DNA from the binary vector. Our results demonstrate the applicability of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for the production of hypoallergenic soybean plants.

Conclusions

Simultaneous site-directed mutagenesis by the CRISPR/Cas9 system removed two major allergenic proteins from mature soybean seeds. This system enables rapid and efficient modification of seed components in soybean varieties.
Stalk architecture, cell wall composition, and QTL underlying high stalk flexibility for improved lodging resistance in maize
Authors: Wang Xiaqing , Shi Zi , Zhang Ruyang , Sun Xuan , Wang Jidong , Wang Shuai , Zhang Ying , Zhao Yanxin , Su Aiguo , Li Chunhui , Wang Ronghuan , Zhang Yunxia , Wang Shuaishuai , Wang Yuandong , Song Wei , Zhao Jiuran
Published: November 2020

Background

Stalk fracture caused by strong wind can severely reduce yields in maize. Stalks with higher stiffness and flexibility will exhibit stronger lodging resistance. However, stalk flexibility is rarely studied in maize. Stalk fracture of the internode above the ear before tasseling will result in the lack of tassel and pollen, which is devastating for pollination in seed production. In this study, we focused on stalk lodging before tasseling in two maize inbred lines, JING724 and its improved line JING724A1 and their F2:3 population.

Results

JING724A1 showed a larger stalk fracture angle than JING724, indicating higher flexibility. In addition, compared to JING724, JING724A1 also had longer and thicker stalks, with a conical, frustum-shaped internode above the ear. Microscopy and X-ray microcomputed tomography of the internal stalk architecture revealed that JING724A1 had more vascular bundles and thicker sclerenchyma tissue. Furthermore, total soluble sugar content of JING724A1, especially the glucose component, was substantially higher than in JING724. Using an F2:3 population derived from a JING724 and JING724A1 cross, we performed bulk segregant analysis for stalk fracture angle and detected one QTL located on Chr3: 14.00–19.28 Mb. Through transcriptome data analysis and ∆ (SNP-index), we identified two candidate genes significantly associated with high stalk fracture angle, which encode a RING/U-box superfamily protein (Zm00001d039769) and a MADS-box transcription factor 54 (Zm00001d039913), respectively. Two KASP markers designed from these two candidate genes also showed significant correlations with stalk fracture angle.

Conclusions

The internode shape and glucose content are possibly correlated with stalk flexibility in maize. Two genes in the detected QTL are potentially associated with stalk fracture angle. These novel phenotypes and associated loci will provide a theoretical foundation for understanding the genetic mechanisms of lodging, and facilitate the selection of maize varieties with improved flexibility and robust lodging resistance.
Patients’ experiences of the caring encounter in health promotion practice: a qualitative study in Swedish primary health care
Authors: Lundberg Kristina , Jong Mats , Jong Miek C. , Porskrog Kristiansen Lisbeth
Published: November 2020

Background

Previous studies have reported that organizational structures and cultures in primary health care are obstacles to district nurses doing successful work in health promotion practice (HPP). Because organizational structures are not easily changed, Jean Watson’s Attending Nurse Caring Model (ANCM) was introduced and piloted at a primary health care center in Sweden, aiming to transform HPP so as to empower district nurses and increase their work satisfaction.

Aim

To investigate patients’ experiences of the caring encounter in HPP after introduction of the ANCM in Swedish primary health care, the aim being to explore the essential components of the caring encounter between patients and district nurses.

Methods

A descriptive and qualitative research design was used. Data collection was performed using individual face-to-face interviews with twelve patients at risk for developing CVD. Data analysis consisted of both deductive content analysis, using a categorization matrix based on the ANCM and, subsequently, inductive latent content analysis.

Results

The findings were abstracted into three themes: 1.‘Feeling the deepest essence of being cared for’: to be respected and being put at the center of the encounter; 2. ‘Feeling acceptance and worth’: being treated with openness and permissive attitudes, 3. ‘Being in a supportive atmosphere that promotes hope’: to feel trust and being trusted in the encounter, and being empowered by hope. The unifying main theme of the caring encounter was abstracted as ‘Experiencing human dignity’.

Conclusion

The present study revealed that the essence of the caring encounter between patients and district nurses in HPP is to be unconditionally accepted in an environment that inspires hope and encouragement. The ANCM seems to be a promising model to use for strengthening the caring encounter and supporting CVD patients in making healthy lifestyle choices. However, further studies of qualitative and quantitative designs are needed to investigate what the ANCM can contribute to HPP in Swedish primary health care.
Development, reliability and validity of the Safe Use of Mobility Aids Checklist (SUMAC) for 4-wheeled walker use in people living with dementia
Authors: Hunter Susan W. , Divine Alison , Omana Humberto , Madou Ed , Holmes Jeffrey
Published: November 2020

Background

Balance and gait problems are common and progressive in dementia. Use of a mobility aid provides physical support and confidence. Yet, mobility aid use in people with dementia increases falls three-fold. An assessment tool of mobility aid safety in people with dementia does not currently exist. The objectives of this study were: 1) to develop a tool for the evaluation of physical function and safe use of a 4-wheeled walker in people with dementia, and 2) to evaluate its construct and criterion validity, inter-rater and test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change.

Methods

Healthcare professionals (HCP) experienced in rehabilitation of people with dementia participated in focus groups for item generation of the new tool, The Safe Use of Mobility Aid Checklist (SUMAC). The SUMAC evaluates physical function (PF) and safe use of the equipment (EQ) on nine tasks of daily life. Reliability was evaluated by HCP (n = 5) scored participant videos of people with dementia (n = 10) using a 4-wheeled walker performing the SUMAC. Inter-rater and test-retest reliability was assessed using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC). Construct validity evaluated scores of the HCPs to a consensus HCP panel using Spearman’s rank-order correlations. Criterion validity evaluated SUMAC-PF to the Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) gait subscale using Spearman’s rank-order correlations.

Results

Three focus groups (n = 17) generated a tool comprised of nine tasks and the components within each task for physical function and safe use. Inter-rater reliability was statistically significant for SUMAC-PF (ICC = 0.92, 95%CI (0.81, 0.98),p < 0.001) and SUMAC-EQ. (ICC = 0.82, 95%CI (0.54, 0.95),p < 0.001). Test-retest reliability was statistically significant for SUMAC-PF (ICC = 0.89, 95%CI (0.81, 0.94),p < 0.001) and SUMAC-EQ. (ICC = 0.88, 95%CI (0.79, 0.93),p < 0.001). As hypothesized, the POMA gait subscale correlated strongly with the SUMAC-PF (rs = 0.84), but not EQ (rs = 0.39).

Conclusions

The focus groups and research team developed a tool of nine tasks with evaluation on physical function and safe use of a 4-wheeled walker for people with dementia. The SUMAC tool has demonstrated content validity for the whole scale and good construct and criterion validity for the SUMAC-PF and SUMAC-EQ. The subscores of the SUMAC demonstrated excellent to good inter-rater and test-retest reliability.
Malaria Screener: a smartphone application for automated malaria screening
Authors: Yu Hang , Yang Feng , Rajaraman Sivaramakrishnan , Ersoy Ilker , Moallem Golnaz , Poostchi Mahdieh , Palaniappan Kannappan , Antani Sameer , Maude Richard J. , Jaeger Stefan
Published: November 2020

Background

Light microscopy is often used for malaria diagnosis in the field. However, it is time-consuming and quality of the results depends heavily on the skill of microscopists. Automating malaria light microscopy is a promising solution, but it still remains a challenge and an active area of research. Current tools are often expensive and involve sophisticated hardware components, which makes it hard to deploy them in resource-limited areas.

Results

We designed an Android mobile application called Malaria Screener, which makes smartphones an affordable yet effective solution for automated malaria light microscopy. The mobile app utilizes high-resolution cameras and computing power of modern smartphones to screen both thin and thick blood smear images for P. falciparum parasites. Malaria Screener combines image acquisition, smear image analysis, and result visualization in its slide screening process, and is equipped with a database to provide easy access to the acquired data.

Conclusion

Malaria Screener makes the screening process faster, more consistent, and less dependent on human expertise. The app is modular, allowing other research groups to integrate their methods and models for image processing and machine learning, while acquiring and analyzing their data.
Molecular identification of Actinomadura madurae isolated from a patient originally from Algeria; observations from a case report
Authors: Izri Arezki , Aljundi Mohanad , Billard-Pomares Typhaine , Fofana Youssouf , Marteau Anthony , Ferreira Theo Ghelfenstein , Brun Sophie , Caux Frederic , Akhoundi Mohammad
Published: November 2020

Background

Mycetoma is a chronic granulomatous subcutaneous infection caused by anaerobic pseudofilamentous bacteria or fungi. It is commonly prevalent in tropical and subtropical countries. Men are more susceptible to the disease due to greater participation in agricultural works. Mycetoma commonly involves lower extremities, wherein untreated cases lead to aggressive therapeutic choices, such as amputation of the affected body organs and consequently lifelong disability.

Case presentation

In this report, we present the rare case of a 58-year-old man, originally from Algeria with a left foot chronic tumefaction of 5 years. In the initial clinical examination, mycetoma was diagnosed based on tumefaction and the presence of multiple sinuses with the emission of white grains. The latter was observed via direct examination. The histopathological analysis demonstrated an actinomycetoma caused by bacteria, as the etiological agent. Imaging showed a bone involvement with osteolysis at the levels of 2nd to 4th metatarsal diaphysis. The mycological and bacterial cultures were both negative. For an accurate diagnosis, the obtained grains were subjected to molecular analysis, targeting the 16S-rDNA gene. Molecular identification yielded Actinomadura madurae as the causal agent, and 800/160 mg of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole was prescribed twice a day for 1 year, as a treatment.

Conclusion

Considering low information about this disease, especially in non-endemic areas, it is of high importance to enhance the knowledge and awareness of clinicians and healthcare providers, in particular in the countries with immigration issues.
Treating male partners of women with bacterial vaginosis (StepUp): a protocol for a randomised controlled trial to assess the clinical effectiveness of male partner treatment for reducing the risk of BV recurrence
Authors:   on behalf of the StepUp RCT Team, Vodstrcil Lenka A. , Plummer Erica L. , Doyle Michelle , Fairley Christopher K. , McGuiness Colette , Bateson Deborah , Hocking Jane S. , Law Matthew G. , Petoumenos Kathy , Donovan Basil , Chow Eric P. F. , Bradshaw Catriona S.
Published: November 2020

Background

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is estimated to affect 1 in 3 women globally and is associated with obstetric and gynaecological sequelae. Current recommended therapies have good short-term efficacy but 1 in 2 women experience BV recurrence within 6 months of treatment. Evidence of male carriage of BV-organisms suggests that male partners may be reinfecting women with BV-associated bacteria (henceforth referred to as BV-organisms) and impacting on the efficacy of treatment approaches solely directed to women. This trial aims to determine the effect of concurrent male partner treatment for preventing BV recurrence compared to current standard of care.

Methods

StepUp is an open-label, multicentre, parallel group randomised controlled trial for women diagnosed with BV and their male partner. Women with clinical-BV defined using current gold standard diagnosis methods (≥3 Amsel criteria and Nugent score (NS) = 4–10) and with a regular male partner will be assessed for eligibility, and couples will then be consented. All women will be prescribed oral metronidazole 400 mg twice daily (BID) for 7 days, or if contraindicated, a 7-day regimen of topical vaginal 2% clindamycin. Couples will be randomised 1:1 to either current standard of care (female treatment only), or female treatment and concurrent male partner treatment (7 days of combined antibiotics - oral metronidazole tablets 400 mg BID and 2% clindamycin cream applied topically to the glans penis and upper shaft [under the foreskin if uncircumcised] BID). Couples will be followed for up to 12 weeks to assess BV status in women, and assess the adherence, tolerability and acceptability of male partner treatment. The primary outcome is BV recurrence defined as ≥3 Amsel criteria and NS = 4–10 within 12 weeks of enrolment. The estimated sample size is 342 couples, to detect a 40% reduction in BV recurrence rates from 40% in the control group to 24% in the intervention group within 12 weeks.

Discussion

Current treatments directed solely to women result in unacceptably high rates of BV recurrence. If proven to be effective the findings from this trial will directly inform the development of new treatment strategies to impact on BV recurrence.

Trial registration

The trial was prospectively registered on 12 February 2019 on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12619000196145, Universal Trial Number: U1111–1228-0106, https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=376883&isReview=true).
Adequate antenatal care and ethnicity affect preterm birth in pregnant women living in the tropical rainforest of Suriname
Authors: Baldewsingh G. K. , Jubitana B. C. , van Eer E. D. , Shankar A. , Hindori-Mohangoo A. D. , Covert H. H. , Shi L. , Lichtveld M. Y. , Zijlmans C. W. R.
Published: November 2020

Background

Adequate antenatal care (ANC) services are key for early identification of pregnancy related risk factors and maintaining women’s health during pregnancy. This study aimed to assess the influence of ANC provided by the Medical Mission Primary Health Care Suriname (MMPHCS) and of ethnicity on adverse birth outcomes in Tribal and Indigenous women living in Suriname’s remote tropical rainforest interior.

Method

From April 2017 to December 2018 eligible Tribal and Indigenous women with a singleton pregnancy that received ANC from MMPHCS were included in the study. Data on low birth weight (LBW < 2500 g), preterm birth (PTB < 37 weeks), low Apgar score (< 7 at 5 min), parity (≤1 vs. > 1) and antenatal visits utilization (≥8 vs. < 8) in 15 interior communities were retrospectively analyzed using descriptive statistics, crosstabs and Fisher’s exact tests.

Results

A total of 204 women were included, 100 (49%) were Tribal, mean age was 26 ± 7.2 years and 126 women (62%) had 8 or more ANC visits. One participant had a miscarriage; 22% had adverse birth outcomes: 16 (7.9%) LBW and 30 (14.8%) PTB; 7 women had a child with both PTB and LBW; 5 women had stillbirths. None of the newborns had low Apgar scores. Maternal age, ethnicity, ANC and parity were associated with PTB (χ2 = 8,75, p = 0.003, χ2 = 4,97, p = 0.025, χ2 = 17,45, p < 0.001, χ2 = 11,93, p < 0.001 respectively).

Conclusion

Despite an almost 100% study adherence over one fifth of women that received ANC in the interior of Suriname had adverse birth outcomes, in particular PTB and LBW. Younger nulliparous Indigenous women with less than the recommended 8 ANC visits had a higher risk for PTB. The rate of adverse birth outcomes highlights the need for further research to better assess factors influencing perinatal outcomes and to put strategies in place to improve perinatal outcomes. Exposure assessment of this sub-cohort and neurodevelopment testing of their children is ongoing and will further inform on potential adverse health effects associated with environmental exposures including heavy metals such as mercury and lead.
Longitudinal change in arterial stiffness after delivery in women with preeclampsia and normotension: a prospective cohort study
Authors: KIM Sehun , LIM Hyun Ja , KIM Jeung-Ran , OH Kyung Joon , HONG Joon-Seok , SUH Jung-Won
Published: November 2020

Background

Preeclampsia is associated with increased arterial stiffness during pregnancy. However, data on the longitudinal change in arterial stiffness after delivery in women with preeclampsia are lacking. In this pilot study, we aimed to examine the longitudinal change in arterial stiffness using the cardio-ankle vascular index after delivery in women with preeclamptic and normotensive pregnancies.

Methods

We enrolled pregnant women with preeclampsia (n = 37) and normotension (n = 36) who gave birth at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital between March 2013 and May 2016, and followed-up at day 1, 6 months, and 12 months after delivery. The longitudinal change in the cardio-ankle vascular index and other variables (blood pressure, lipid profiles, serum creatinine, and liver enzymes) were compared between the two groups using the mixed-effects model, and interactions among the main predictors were examined.

Results

The longitudinal change in the cardio-ankle vascular index did not significantly differ between the two groups (β = 0.11, 95% CI: − 0.31–0.54, p = 0.60). Predictors of the longitudinal change in the cardio-ankle vascular index included age, time since delivery, body mass index, and diabetes mellitus. Women with preeclampsia showed significantly elevated blood pressure, lipid profiles, serum creatinine, and liver enzymes compared to women with normotension over the course of 1 year of follow-up.

Conclusions

Preeclampsia is associated with unfavorable blood pressure and metabolic indices after delivery. However, we found no difference in the longitudinal change in arterial stiffness between women with preeclampsia and normotension over the course of 1 year after delivery.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on October 29, 2019 (NCT04142268).
5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside induces differentiation in a subset of primary acute myeloid leukemia blasts
Authors: Dembitz Vilma , Lalic Hrvoje , Kodvanj Ivan , Tomic Barbara , Batinic Josip , Dubravcic Klara , Batinic Drago , Bedalov Antonio , Visnjic Dora
Published: November 2020

Background

All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)-based treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is the most successful pharmacological treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Recent development of inhibitors of mutated isocitrate dehydrogenase and dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) has revived interest in differentiation therapy of non-APL AML. Our previous studies demonstrated that 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAr) induced differentiation of monocytic cell lines by activating the ATR/Chk1 via pyrimidine depletion. In the present study, the effects of AICAr on the viability and differentiation of primary AML blasts isolated from bone marrow of patients with non-APL AML were tested and compared with the effects of DHODH inhibitor brequinar and ATRA.

Methods

Bone marrow samples were obtained from 35 patients and leukemia blasts were cultured ex vivo. The cell viability was assessed by MTT assay and AML cell differentiation was determined by flow cytometry and morphological analyses. RNA sequencing and partial data analysis were conducted using ClusterProfiler package. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 6.0.

Results

AICAr is capable of triggering differentiation in samples of bone marrow blasts cultured ex vivo that were resistant to ATRA. AICAr-induced differentiation correlates with proliferation and sensitivity to DHODH inhibition. RNA-seq data obtained in primary AML blasts confirmed that AICAr treatment induced downregulation of pyrimidine metabolism pathways together with an upregulation of gene set involved in hematopoietic cell lineage.

Conclusion

AICAr induces differentiation in a subset of primary non-APL AML blasts, and these effects correlate with sensitivity to a well-known, potent DHODH inhibitor.
Efficacy of EUS-guided FNB using a Franseen needle for tissue acquisition and microsatellite instability evaluation in unresectable pancreatic lesions
Authors: Sugimoto Mitsuru , Irie Hiroki , Takagi Tadayuki , Suzuki Rei , Konno Naoki , Asama Hiroyuki , Sato Yuki , Nakamura Jun , Takasumi Mika , Hashimoto Minami , Kato Tsunetaka , Kobashi Ryoichiro , Kobayashi Yasuyuki , Hashimoto Yuko , Hikichi Takuto , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: November 2020

Background

The efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade in the treatment of microsatellite instability (MSI)-high tumors was recently reported. Therefore, the acquisition of histological specimens is desired in cases of unresectable solid pancreatic lesions (UR SPLs). This study investigated the efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) using a Franseen needle for UR SPL tissue acquisition and MSI evaluation.

Methods

A total of 195 SPL patients who underwent EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) or EUS-FNB (EUS-FNAB) between January 2017 and March 2020 were enrolled in this study. Among them, 89 SPL patients (FNB: 28, FNA: 61) underwent EUS-FNAB using a 22-G needle (UR SPLs: 58, FNB: 22, FNA: 36) (UR SPLs after starting MSI evaluation: 23, FNB: 9, FNA: 14).

Results

The puncture number was significantly lower with FNB than with FNA (median (range): 3 (2–5) vs 4 (1–8), P <  0.01, UR SPLs: 3 (2–5) vs 4 (1–8), P = 0.036). Histological specimen acquisition was more commonly achieved with FNB than with FNA (92.9% (26/28) vs 68.9% (42/61), P = 0.015, UR SPLs: 100% (22/22) vs 72.2% (26/36), P <  0.01). The histological specimen required for MSI evaluation was acquired more often with FNB than with FNA (88.9% (8/9) vs 35.7% (5/14), P = 0.03).

Conclusions

EUS-FNB using a Franseen needle is efficient for histological specimen acquisition and sampling the required amount of specimen for MSI evaluation in UR SPL patients.
Reversal of blood flow in deep cerebral vein in preterm intraventricular hemorrhage: two case reports
Authors: Tanaka Kenichi , Sakamoto Rieko , Imamura Hiroko , Naramura Tetsuo , Matsumoto Shirou , Iwai Masanori , Mitsubuchi Hiroshi , Nakamura Kimitoshi
Published: November 2020

Background

Intraventricular hemorrhage during the early stage is a major complication in very low birth weight infants. Elevation of venous pressure is one of the contributing factors. The internal cerebral vein receives most of the venous flow from the subependymal germinal matrix, the most common site of origin of intraventricular hemorrhage. Recently, it has been reported that pulsatile or partially interrupted internal cerebral vein waveforms might also be risk factors for intraventricular hemorrhage in extremely low birth weight infants. Here, we report two cases of partially reversed internal cerebral vein flow with intraventricular hemorrhage. There are no published reports documenting this unique flow pattern.

Case presentation

Between 2013 and 2020, we had in our neonatal intensive care unit two cases of very low birth weight infants (27 and 25 weeks of gestational age) who showed a partially reversed internal cerebral vein waveform pattern, which was recognized as a new blood flow pattern. Their internal cerebral vein flow patterns were continuously flat early after birth. They showed an intraventricular hemorrhage on the unilateral side with partially interrupted internal cerebral vein flow at 31 and 41 hours after birth (27- and 25-week-old neonates, respectively). Consecutively, their internal cerebral vein flow changed to a partially reversed pattern with intraventricular hemorrhage on the contralateral side at 43 and 87 hours after birth (27- and 25-week-old neonates, respectively). Their flow patterns improved by day 7. These partially reversed patterns were equivalent to triphasic venous flow, and the reverse flow corresponded to A- and V-waves.

Conclusion

In the two cases, the internal cerebral vein flow patterns were normal and flat before intraventricular hemorrhage and changed to a severe flow pattern (partially interrupted or reversed flow) at the same time as the detection of intraventricular hemorrhage. After the development of intraventricular hemorrhage, they improved. These cases indicate that a partially reversed or interrupted internal cerebral vein flow pattern may be derived from central venous pressure elevation and related to intraventricular hemorrhage in very low birth weight infants, however, it is difficult to determine when this flow pattern occurs in relation to intraventricular hemorrhage.
Education differences in sickness absence and the role of health behaviors: a prospective twin study
Authors: Seglem K. B. , Ørstavik R. , Torvik F. A. , Røysamb E. , Vollrath M.
Published: November 2020

Background

Long-term sickness absences burden the economy in many industrialized countries. Both educational attainment and health behaviors are well-known predictors of sickness absence. It remains, however, unclear whether these associations are causal or due to confounding factors. The co-twin control method allows examining causal hypotheses by controlling for familial confounding (shared genes and environment). In this study, we applied this design to study the role of education and health behaviors in sickness absence, taking sex and cohort differences into account.

Methods

Participants were two cohorts of in total 8806 Norwegian twins born 1948 to 1960 (older cohort, mean age at questionnaire = 40.3, 55.8% women), and 1967 to 1979 (younger cohort, mean age at questionnaire = 25.6, 58.9% women). Both cohorts had reported their health behaviors (smoking, physical activity and body mass index (BMI)) through a questionnaire during the 1990s. Data on the twins’ educational attainment and long-term sickness absences between 2000 and 2014 were retrieved from Norwegian national registries. Random (individual-level) and fixed (within-twin pair) effects regression models were used to measure the associations between educational attainment, health behaviours and sickness absence and to test the effects of possible familial confounding.

Results

Low education and poor health behaviors were associated with a higher proportion of sickness absence at the individual level. There were stronger effects of health behaviors on sickness absence in women, and in the older cohort, whereas the effect of educational attainment was similar across sex and cohorts. After adjustment for unobserved familial factors (genetic and environmental factors shared by twin pairs), the associations were strongly attenuated and non-significant, with the exception of health behaviors and sickness absence among men in the older cohort.

Conclusions

The associations between educational attainment, health behaviors, and sickness absence seem to be confounded by unobserved familial factors shared by co-twins. However, the association between health behaviors and sickness absence was consistent with a causal effect among men in the older cohort. Future studies should consider familial confounding, as well as sex and age/cohort differences, when assessing associations between education, health behaviors and sickness absence.
A case report of bronchial pleomorphic adenoma in a child in China
Authors: Zhong Haiqin , Yan Silei , Jiang Kung , Hu Yijing , Dong Xiaoyan
Published: November 2020

Background

Paediatric cases of pleomorphic adenoma of the bronchus are rare in clinical practice, despite pleomorphic adenoma being the most common histological form of salivary gland neoplasm. To date, no such cases have been reported in China.

Case presentation

We report a case of pleomorphic adenoma of the bronchus in a 10-year-old child with no obvious positive signs on examination. Chest-enhanced computed tomography and bronchoscopy showed a large white mass in the right principal bronchus. The patient was treated by bronchial mass resection. Biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma.

Conclusions

We not only describe a rare benign bronchial tumour in children but also demonstrate the successful use of surgery as a radical cure for pleomorphic adenoma.
Biodegradable pins for lateral condylar fracture of the humerus with an early delayed presentation in children: a retrospective study of biodegradable pin vs. Kirschner wire
Authors: Li Jin , Rai Saroj , Gao Yun , Ze Renhao , Tang Xin , Liu Ruikang , Hong Pan
Published: November 2020

Background

The clinical outcome of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for delayed lateral condylar fracture of the humerus (LCFH) varies in different studies, but ORIF for LCFH with an early-delayed presentation usually resulted in significant improvement of elbow function. Early delayed presentation is defined as a period of 3 to 12 weeks from the injury. This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes of biodegradable pin (BP) vs. Kirschner wire (KW) in the treatment of LCFH with an early delayed presentation.

Methods

LCFH with an early-delayed presentation treated with KW or BP were retrospectively reviewed in our hospital. The patients were divided into two groups KW (n = 17) and BP group (n = 26). Baseline information, including sex, age, operative side, duration from injury to surgery, and implant choice, was reviewed. Radiographs and medical records were collected from the Hospital Database.

Results

In all, 17 patients (male/female, 9/8) in KW and 26 patients (male/female,13/13) in the BP group were included. The age showed no statistically significant difference between the KW (52.3 ± 10.2, month) and the BP (56.1 ± 10.7, month), (P = 0.258). At the last follow-up, there existed no statistically significant difference between the two groups concerning Baumann’s angle (P = 0.272) and carrying angle (P = 0.911). The MEPS at the last follow-up was better in the KW group (91.1 ± 2.7) than the BP group (89.2 ± 3.0), (P = 0.048). There was no case of nonunion or malunion in both groups. The incidence of fishtail deformity was (8/17, 47.1%) in KW and (13/26, 50%) in the BP group. The incidence of lateral prominence was (5/17, 29.4%) in the KW and (7/26, 26.9%) in the BP group. Furthermore, the incidence of implant prominence was higher in KW (12/17, 70.6%) than BP (0) (P <  0.001).

Conclusion

Open reduction and internal fixation for LCFH with an early-delayed presentation produced satisfactory outcomes. Biodegradable pin is a good alternative to Kirschner wire, with comparable clinical outcomes.
Total hip arthroplasty for Crowe type IV developmental dysplasia of the hip combined with intertrochanteric fracture: a case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Wei , Ma Yong , Ma Hui , Nie Mao
Published: November 2020

Background

Total hip arthroplasty for Crowe type IV developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a complex procedure. Crowe type IV DDH combined with intertrochanteric frature is very rare.

Case presentation

A 75-year-old patient suffering from left hip pain after a fall was sent to our hospital. Plain radiographs and computed tomography scans were used to diagnose this patient with DDH combined with an intertrochanteric fracture. We conducted a total hip arthroplasty using an S-rom prosthesis following subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy in this patient, after which steel wires were used to fix the intertrochanteric fracture. The patient did not suffer any significant intraoperative or postoperative complications, and treatment was sufficient to overcome lower leg abnormalities. The patient was encouraged to resume walking with support at 3 days post-surgery, and at 6-month postoperatively he had regained the majority of his original range of motion. At 10-month postoperatively, the intertrochanteric fracture and subtrochanteric osteotomy of left femur had healed effectively,and the patient’s VAS and mHSS scores had improved significantly.

Conclusions

Total hip arthroplasty is an effective approach to treat patients suffering from Crowe type IV DDH combined with an intertrochanteric fracture, and can achieve satisfactory clinical outcomes.