bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid, Quantitative, and High-Sensitivity Detection of Anti-Phospholipase A2 Receptor Antibodies Using Novel Cdse/Zns-Based Fluorescence Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Li Chenxi , Qian Manyun , Hong Qiaozhen , Xin Xiaohong , Sun Zichun , Li Yafeng , Tang Bo , Gu Bing
Published: December 2020

Autoantibodies against M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) are specific biomarkers for idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) and their quantification has been helpful to monitor disease activity. In this study, we describe a highly sensitive and rapid quantum dots-based immunochromatography assay (QD-ICA) for quantifying PLA2R autoantibodies. Serum samples from 135 biopsy-confirmed patients with nephrotic syndrome were analyzed for PLA2R autoantibodies using the novel QD-ICA as well as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The detection sensitivity and specificity of QD-ICA (80.9 and 100%, respectively) exceeded those of ELISA (72.1 and 98.5%, respectively). The optimum cut-off value of QD-ICA was 18.18 RU/mL and limit of detection was 2.86 relative units/mL. The novel QD-ICA outperforms ELISA in detecting PLA2R autoantibodies, with shorter detection time, fewer steps, smaller equipment size, and broader testing application, suggesting its capability to improve IMN diagnosis and monitor patient response to treatment.
Model Test Research on Pressure Wave in the Subway Tunnel
Authors: Bi Haiquan , Fang Yi , Zhou Yuanlong , Wang Honglin , Zhang Xu
Published: December 2020

The pressure wave is of crucial importance for subway development since it greatly influences the comfort while taking. As the subway lines are rapidly developing in the cities, the pressure wave in different subway tunnel constructures is urgently needed to be studied and receded. In this paper, a subway tunnel pressure wave experimental system was designed, constructed, and tested. The influence of train model head shape, train model speed, shaft number in the tunnel, and bypass number in the tunnel on the pressure wave amplitude were experimented with and analyzed. The results show that the train model head shapes significantly impact the amplitude of the initial compression wave in the tunnel. The blunter train model head generates a greater amplitude of the initial compression wave. When the train passes through a single-track tunnel, the maximum positive pressure amplitude of the pressure wave in the tunnel is at the first compression wave at the tunnel entrance. The maximum negative pressure value in the tunnel is at the superposition of the initial compression wave reflected from the first time and the train's body, which is related to the length of the train's body, tunnel length, train's speed, and sound speed. The shaft set in the tunnel decreases the amplitude of the initial compression wave in the tunnel space behind, but it will increase the pressure wave's amplitude reflected in the tunnel when the train passes through the shaft. After the bypass tunnel is added, the initial compression wave propagation in the tunnel behind the bypass tunnel is receded. Still, it also increases the negative pressure amplitude when the train passes.
Non-Epileptiform EEG Patterns in Non-Convulsive Status Epilepticus: Can Quantified SPECT Imaging be Useful?
Authors: Vendrell Albert Muñoz , Sala-Padró Jacint , Jaraba Sonia , Reynés-Llompart Gabriel , Veciana Misericòrdia , Mora Jaume , Falip Mercè
Published: December 2020

Background: The diagnosis of non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) in patients with non-epileptiform EEG patterns remains a challenge. Objective: To prove the usefulness of single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) and its quantification (QtSPECT) in co-localizing the abnormal focus in the EEG with an area of hyperperfusion, thus helping in the diagnosis of NCSE.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients admitted with clinical suspicion of NCSE who underwent an HMPAO-SPECT controlled by scalp-EEG showing non-epileptiform patterns, in a 5-year period. We divided our patients in confirmed NCSE (n=11) and non-NCSE (n=8), and compared the EEG and SPECT results in both groups.Results: Lateralized rhythmic delta activity (LRDA) was predominant in the NCSE group (45’4%, p=0’045), while lateralized irregular slowing was observed equally in both groups. Patients with NCSE showed significant hyperperfusion compared to non-NCSE patients (p=0.026). QtSPECT correctly classified 91% of patients in NCSE and 75% patients with non-NCSE (p=0.006).Conclusions: Regional cerebral blood flow measured with SPECT could be useful in the diagnosis of NCSE in cases of an EEG pattern with lateralized slow activity and high clinical suspicion.
A Combined Study with 18F-FDG and 11C-Methionine Dynamic PET for the Grading of Brain Gliomas.
Authors: Postnov Andrey , Vikhrova Nina , Valable Samuel , Kalaeva Diana , Konakova Tatiana , Usachev Dmitrij , Toutain Jérôme , Clerck Nora De , Derlon Jean-Michel , Pronin Igor
Published: December 2020

Purpose: Conventional MRI based on contrast enhancement and T2/FLAIR is often not sufficient in differentiating grade II from grade III and grade III from grade IV diffuse gliomas. Here we assessed advanced metabolic imaging using two well characterized PET tracers, namely 18F-FDG and 11C-Methionine.Methods: In this prospective study, 39 patients were enrolled with diffuse gliomas of grades II, III or IV underwent dynamic [18F]-FDF-PET and [11C]-Methionine. The first minutes were taken into accountResults: The use of 11C- Methionine provided significant differences between the different histologic subgroups with a higher number of parameters than did the use of 18 F-FDG. The most informative parameter is T/Np (T/N at the peak of the first maximum) with 11C- Methionine.Conclusion: The study of the first minute passage of 18F-FDG and/or 11C- Methionine through the tumor and healthy tissues in brain gliomas could not only allow improving the identification of the different glioma grades, but also to shorten the time spent by the patients under the camera. In case of using one tracer, methionine still would be the best choice. Otherwise, the use of 18F-FDG and SUVр (SUV at the peak of the first maximum) would provide results likely comparable to methionine T/N index.
Psychological Status and Behavior Changes Among Addis Ababa People during the COVID-19 Epidemic. 
Authors: Woldemedihin Fantaye , Anbesse Reta , Kasahun Yawukal , Melaku Mulualem
Published: December 2020

Background: The outbreak of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a public health emergency of international concern. The epidemic has brought not only the risk of being infected and death but also unbearable psychological impact like anxiety and depression. The aim of this study was investigating the psychological status and behavior changes of the public during COVID-19 epidemic.Methods: None randomly selected 300 respondents were recruited voluntarily and completed questionnaire. We used the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Self-rating Depression Scale, and Symptom Checklist-90 to evaluate psychological status. We also investigated respondents’ behavior changes. Quantitative data were analyzed by t-tests or analysis of variance, and classified data were analyzed with chi-square tests. We just simply describe the qualitative data we got by interviewing medical doctors who are working at referral and designated COVID-19 treatment hospital in Addis Ababa. Result: More respondents had state anxiety than trait anxiety (46.7% vs. 30.0%). Respectively, mild, moderate and severe depression was found among 28.1%, 7.2% and 1.4% of respondents and 27.4% had psychological abnormalities. Our analysis of the relationship between subgroup characteristics and psychological status showed that age, occupation, income level, knowledge about COVID-19, Place where the participants’ lives and confidence about overcoming the outbreak significantly influenced psychological status. Around 84.1% of respondents were avoided and significantly reduce going to public places than in previous years and 91.8 % of respondents reduced visiting families, relatives and friends and holyday-related activities during Eastern and Arafa. Conclusion: COVID-19 not only causes physical health concerns but also results in a number of psychological problems. We need to pay more attention to public psychological stress, especially among young people, as they are likely to experience anxiety, depression, and psychological abnormalities.
Teaching Self-Assessment of Doppler Ultrasound for Bubble Grading in Divers: Learning Curve, Reliability, and Surveying Precision.
Authors: Fichtner Andreas , Münch Anne , Preuss Denise , Pohl Thomas , Grab Thomas , Fieback Tobias , Koch Thea
Published: December 2020

BackgroundObserving modern decompression protocols alone cannot fully prevent Diving Accidents especially in repetitive diving. Audio Doppler bubble measurements to estimate supersaturation are done in special professional settings only, being not available for the broad community of sports SCUBA divers. In case SCUBA divers without medical and ultrasound training could learn audio Doppler self-assessment for reliable bubble grading on a stable skill level and with an efficient single teaching intervention, this skill could add significantly to diving safety. MethodsWe taught audio Doppler self-assessment of the subclavian vein and cardiac precordial probe position to 41 divers in a 45-minute standardized training session. Assessment was made of 684 audio Doppler measurements by both the trained divers and a medical professional plus additional 2D-echocardiography as reference. ResultsAll air dives were within normal sports diving limits and decompression bubbles were observable via echocardiography in 32.3% of all measurements. The specificity of audio bubble detection was 96.1% but the sensitivity was low for lower bubble grades, increasing to 25%, 35% and 67% for higher echo-detected bubble grades 3, 4 and 5. The number of attempts to achieve a reliable venous signal within 30 seconds was 13 at the subclavian position and 18 at the precordial position. More bubble positive measurements could be detected at the precordial position for both self and medical professional assessment. The performance level of the taught skill remained stable over six months without further practice.ConclusionAudio Doppler self-assessment can be learned by people without medical and ultrasound training and a reliable venous signal can be achieved after a comparably steep learning curve. However, accurate bubble grading is not possible using audio Doppler as only higher bubble grades can be detected. Nevertheless, this qualitative finding can be important in self-evaluating decompression stress and potentially help the diver to judge on measures for avoiding decompression accidents.
Understanding How Communities Respond to COVID-19: Experiences from the Orthodox Jewish Communities of Antwerp City
Authors: Vanhamel Jef , Meudec Marie , Landeghem Ella Van , Ronse Maya , Gryseels Charlotte , Reyniers Thijs , Rotsaert Anke , Ddungu Charles , Manirankunda Lazare , Katsuva Deogratias , Grietens Koen Peeters , Nöstlinger Christiana
Published: December 2020

Background: The importance of community involvement in the response against disease outbreaks has been well established. However, we lack insights into local communities’ experiences in coping with the current COVID-19 pandemic. This study explored both the impact of, and response to, COVID-19 within the Orthodox Jewish communities of Antwerp (Belgium) during the first lockdown period (March 2020 – May 2020).Methods: We conducted an explorative qualitative study using a participatory approach. First, we performed a community mapping to identify relevant stakeholders. Through the active involvement of a community advisory board and based on qualitative interviews with key-informants and community members, we elicited lived experiences, attitudes, and perceptions towards COVID-19. Interviews were conducted both face-to-face and using online web conferencing technology. Data were analyzed inductively according to the principles of thematic analysis.Results: Government-issued outbreak control measures presented context-specific challenges to the Orthodox Jewish communities in Antwerp. They related mainly to the remote organization of religious life, and practicing physical distancing in socially and culturally strongly connected communities. Key informants described how existing community resources were rapidly mobilized to adapt to the outbreak and to self-organize response initiatives within communities. This included the active involvement of community and religious leaders in risk communication, which proved to be of great importance to facilitate coverage and uptake of pandemic control measures while protecting essential community values and traditions. Creating bottom-up and community-adapted communication strategies, including addressing language barriers and involving Rabbis in the dissemination of prevention messages, fostered a feeling of trust in government’s response measures. However, unmet information and prevention needs were also identified, such as the need for inclusive communication by public authorities and the need to mitigate the negative effects of stigmatization.Conclusion: The experiences of Orthodox Jewish communities in Antwerp demonstrate a valuable example of a feasible community-centered approach to health emergencies. Increasing the engagement of communities in local decision-making and governance structures remains a key strategy to respond to unmet information and prevention needs.
High-Resolution Flow-Simulation in Typhoon 21, 2018: Massive Loss of Submerged Macrophytes in Lake Biwa
Authors: Nakada Satoshi , Haga Hiroki , Iwaki Maho , Hatano Keisuke , Mabuchi Kohji , Takamura Noriko
Published: December 2020

Global activities of typhoons and hurricanes are gradually changing, and these storms can drastically affect lake ecosystems through the recession of submerged macrophytes that regulate the water quality in lakes. Using an echosounder, we captured the short-term, massive loss of submerged macrophytes attributed to the abnormal fluctuation of the water level induced by the approach of a catastrophic super typhoon in the south basin of Lake Biwa, Japan. This paper investigates the physical processes responsible for the loss of vegetation using a high-resolution circulation model in Lake Biwa as a pilot study area. The circulation model was coupled with dynamical models of the fluid force and erosion acting on the vegetation. Our simulation successfully reproduced the water level fluctuation and high-speed current (torrent) generated by the typhoon gale. The simulated results demonstrate that the fluid force driven by the gale-induced torrent uprooted submerged macrophytes during the typhoon approach and that this fluid force (rather than erosion) caused the outflow of vegetation. As a result, this uprooting attributed to the fluid force induced the massive loss of submerged macrophytes in a large area of the south basin, which might have increased primary production and reduced the stock of fish such as bluegill in the lake. Our approach is practical for evaluating changes in lake environments attributed to the massive outflow of submerged macrophytes under various climate change scenarios. (227 words)
Malignant Tumor Is the Greatest Risk Factor for Pulmonary Embolism in Hospitalized Patients: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Fujieda Kaoru , Nozue Akiko , Watanabe Akie , Shi Keiko , Itagaki Hiroya , Hosokawa Yoshihiko , Nishida Keiko , Tasaka Nobutaka , Satoh Toyomi , Nishide Ken
Published: December 2020

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the background of patients who presented with pulmonary embolism (PE) on contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography (CT) and to explore the risk factors for PE.MethodsThis study included a review of the medical records of all 50,621 patients who were admitted to one community hospital between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2017. Data on sex, age, risk factors related to blood flow stagnation (obesity, long-term bed rest, cardiopulmonary disease, cast fixation, long-term sitting), risk factors related to vascular endothelial disorder (surgery, trauma/fracture, central venous catheterization, catheter tests/treatments, vasculitis, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, history of venous thromboembolism (VTE)), and risk factors related to hypercoagulability (malignant tumor, use of oral contraceptives/low-dose estrogen progestin/steroids, infection, inflammatory enteric disease, polycythemia, protein C or protein S deficiency, dehydration) were evaluated.ResultsOf all inpatients, 185 (0.37%) were diagnosed with PE after contrast-enhanced chest CT examination. The rate of discovering PE was significantly greater in women (0.48%, 93/19,409) than men (0.29%, 92/31,212) (P=0.0008). Of the 185 patients with PE, 173 (94%) had some type of risk factor. For both men and women, the most frequent risk factor was a malignant tumor, followed by infection and obesity for men and long-term bed rest and obesity for women. The most common malignant tumor was lung cancer. Of the 12 patients whose clear PE-inducing factor could not be identified, but there is possible involvement of antipsychotic agent.ConclusionsThe risk factors for PE were identified in this single-center, retrospective study.
Spatial and Temporal Distribution Changes of Human Brucellosis in Inner Mongolia, China, effects of Husbandry and Control Measures
Authors: Zhai Jingbo , zhang qi , Wang Ying , Wang Dali , Song Lihua , Chen Zeliang
Published: December 2020

BackgroundInner Mongolia has the highest incidence rate, causing great public health and economic losses. A number of policies to guide the prevention and control of human brucellosis had been issued and have made some achievements. Analysis of the distribution characteristics and changes of human brucellosis is important for the targeted prevention and control of this disease.MethodsWe collected various policies and measures related to brucellosis promulgated, and comprehensively analyzed the spatial and temporal distribution of human brucellosis in Inner Mongolia from 2005 to 2019 using the Bayesian theory of space-time modeling. ResultsWith the implementation of various policies and measures, great achievements have been made and distribution trends changed. Some western regions have changed into stable or cold-spot counties, and most cities in the eastern region have become hot-spot counties during the time period. The rising trend of risk in three cities is slowing down, while the risk in two cities is growing faster than the overall trend.ConclusionThe effective prevention and control measures are essential. The analysis results of this study may provide a theoretical and scientific basis for the public health department to develop targeted effective prevention and control measures for human brucellosis.
Over-expression of HSP70 induces apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells in heat-stressed pigs: A proteomic approach
Authors: Li Junyu , Yong Yanhong , Yu Tianyue , Fang Biao , Wu Lianyun , Hu Canying , Liu Xiaoxi , Yu Zhichao , Ma Xingbin , Gooneratne Ravi , El-Aty A. M. Abd , Ju Xianghong
Published: December 2020

Background

Heat stress (HS)-induced intestinal epithelial cell apoptosis may play a pivotal role in intestinal barrier function injury in animals. However, the underlying molecular mechanism by which HS induces apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells is still poorly understood.
Methods

The trial uses a prospective study. Firstly, a eukaryotic expression vector for the HSP70 gene was constructed and transfected into intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) and then analyzed with a functional proteomics approach followed by liquid-chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) identification. Next, heat stress treatment of IPEC-J2 cells and pigs were performed. Immunoblotting and flow cytometry were used to examine the protein changes and cellular apoptosis.
Results

246 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified in HSP70-overexpressed IPEC-J2 cells, functional annotation suggested that most of the DEPs were related to ECM-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, and apoptosis. Moreover, apoptosis rate was increased in IPEC-J2 cells transfected with porcine HSP70 overexpressing plasmid accompanied with the expression of apoptosis-related proteins, Caspase-3, PARP, and Bax were up-regulated, whereas Bcl-2 protein expression was down-regulated. Interestingly, increased Caspase-3, PARP, and Bax with decreased Bcl-2 were observed in IPEC-J2 cells under heat stress conditions. In an in vivo porcine model, HS-induced cellular apoptosis in the duodenum, cecum, and colon, as well the up-regulation of HSP70 in the intestinal tissues.
Conclusions

HSP70 may play a regulatory role in cellular apoptosis within IPEC-J2 cells. Taken together, our findings provide new insights for understanding the molecular mechanisms of cellular apoptosis associated with HSP70.
The Global Fund: Anti-Corruption, Transparency and Accountability
Authors: Chang Zhihao , Kohler Jillian
Published: December 2020

Background: The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis has been a key international organization in improving the health of those affected by the three big diseases. It was created during a time of health crisis and did not have the necessary anti-corruption, transparency, and accountability (ACTA) structures in place to prevent fraud and corruption in its grants, which resulted in misuse of funds by grant recipients and loss of donor confidence in 2011. Almost one decade later, this paper seeks to describe the ACTA mechanisms within the Global Fund and their results. Results: At the highest level, the Board of Directors has restructured the Global Fund’s governing committees in 2011 and in 2016 to its current Audit and Finance, Ethics and Governance, and Strategy Committees. This has helped to delineate committee mandates and to strengthen the Board’s oversight and direction on operations. In addition, the Global Fund has adopted a rigorous risk management framework and has worked risk mitigation into all aspects of functioning. An Ethics and Integrity Framework was adopted in 2014 and an Ethics Office was established in 2016, resulting in increased conflict of interest disclosures and greater ethics considerations within the Global Fund. The Office of the Inspector General of the Global Fund has been effective in performing internal and external audits and investigations on fraud and corruption, suggesting changes to mitigate future risks, and implementing novel initiatives, such as the I Speak Out Now! campaign to encourage whistleblowing and to educate on signs of fraud and corruption. Finally, the “eyes and ears” of the Global Fund, the Local Fund Agents, have been involved in exposing fraud and corruption during the implementation of Global Fund grants. These mechanisms have reduced grant-related risks and procurement fraud in particular. Conclusions: Over the past decade, the Global Fund has developed a number of ACTA mechanisms. It will be critical that the Global Fund continues to monitor and evaluate how effective these mechanisms are and to make changes, when and where needed.
Health care workers depression and associated factors during COVID-19. Health facility-based study in Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Yadeta Tesfaye Assebe , Baca Yadeta Desie , Balis Bikila
Published: December 2020

Background

Depression of health care workers was related to work absences, resignations, and poor work performance, affecting the quality of patient care and the health care system. It may be at higher risk during the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. There is limited evidence that assesses depression and its associated factors in the study area. Therefore this study aimed to assess depression and associated factors among health care workers (HCW) in eastern Ethiopia.
Method:

The cross-sectional study design was conducted from October 26th to November 10, 2020. To assess depression among health care workers. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-19) questionnaire was used for the collection of depressive symptoms. The data were analyzed by using STATA version 14 software. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) along with 95% CI was estimated to examine factors associated with depression symptoms using logistic regression analysis.
Results

Of the total 265 study participant, 176 (66.4%) and 95% CI: 60.4%, 71.8% of them reported depressive symptom. Of 176 reported symptoms of depression 27.9%, 24.1%, 9.4%, 3.7%, and 1.1% were had minimal, mild, moderate, moderate-severe, and severe depressive symptoms respectively. Being female [AOR: 3.40, (95%CI: (1.79, 6.45)], participants who perceived susceptibility to COVID-19 [AOR: 2.30, (95%CI: (1.12, 4.71)], and perceived severity to COVID-19 [AOR: 3.06, (95%CI: (1.35, 6.91)] were higher risks of experiencing depression symptoms. Participants who had work experience 3–5 years [AOR: 0.21, (95%CI: (0.08, 0.56)], and the participant who had 6–10 years’ work experience [AOR: 0.30, (95%CI: (0.11, 0. 84)] were had less likely to experience depression symptoms when compared with a participant who had two and fewer years of work experience.
Conclusions

A high proportion of health care workers experienced depression symptoms. Health care workers' mental health needs to be protected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Female health care workers, junior health care workers, and HCWs perceived susceptibility, and perceived severity of COVID-19 need attention.
Correlation between the coagulation test and neonatal hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: zhou fangye , Li Lei , Fu Rong
Published: December 2020

Background

The coagulation test is used to diagnose the hematological diseases. Little is known about correlation between the coagulation test and neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. The aim of the study was to describe neonatal coagulation test in infants with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
Methods

Data were collected from newborns who had neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and healthy in Chengdu Second People’s Hospital. Prothrombin time(PT), Thrombin time(TT), Fibrinogen(Fbg), activated partial thromboplastin time(APTT), and calculated international normalized ration(INR) values were recorded. Linear relationship between INR and level of total bilirubin and indirect bilirubin were analysed by linear regression. Comparisons of two groups were made by GraphPad Prism 8.
Results

In this case-control study, the mean PT, APTT level were significant higher in the infants with hyperbilirubinemia group compared to the healthy infants. We found the correlation between INR and total bilirubin(R = 0.3327; P < 0.0001). There was also correlation between INR and indirect bilirubin(R = 0.3402; P < 0.0001).
Conclusions

PT, APTT were significant high in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia group. Correlation were observed between the coagulation test and neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
Characterisation of National Immunisation Programmes (NIPs) in the context of Public Health Emergencies (PHEs): A Case Study of 13 Countries in the WHO African Region
Authors: Chepkurui Viola , Amponsah-Dacosta Edina , Eposi Haddison Christiana , Kagina Benjamin Mugo
Published: December 2020

Background In the World Health Organisation African region (WHO-Afro), multiple public health emergencies (PHEs) are experienced annually. PHEs are known to affect the provision of health services including immunisation. To our knowledge, there is limited information on the characterisation of PHEs and the performance of national immunisation programmes (NIPs) in countries within the WHO-Afro. This study assessed PHEs (armed conflicts, disasters, and disease outbreaks) and the performance of NIPs within PHE contexts using global and regional immunisation targets.MethodsCountries recorded to have benefitted from PHE mitigation funds from the African Public Health Emergency Fund (APHEF) were used as case studies. Data on PHEs and immunisation indicators between 2010 and 2019 in the selected countries were extracted from different PHE electronic databases and the WHO/UNICEF immunisation database, respectively.The PHEs and immunisation indicators were stratified by country and summarised using descriptive statistics. The Mann-Whitney U test was carried out to determine the association between the frequency of PHEs and the performance of NIPs. Statistical significance was defined at p-value < 0.05. ResultsBetween 2010 and 2019 there were a total of 175 disease outbreaks, 288 armed conflicts, and 318 disasters in the 13 countries selected as case studies. The Democratic Republic of Congo had the highest total PHE count (n=208), while Liberia had the lowest (n=20). Only three of the 13 countries had a median coverage value for the third dose of the combined Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis vaccine (DTP3) that had attained the target for ≥90% immunisation coverage.Higher counts of armed conflict and total PHEs were associated with not meeting the immunisation targets for national DTP3 coverage of ≥90% and Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus (MNT) elimination, p<0.01. Higher disaster counts were also associated with not attaining MNT elimination, p=0.03.ConclusionPHEs are prevalent in the WHO-Afro, irrespective of the level of a country’s immunisation maturity. In absence of effective interventions, the PHEs have the potential to derail the progress of NIPs in the WHO-Afro. As we transition towards the Immunisation Agenda 2030, we recommend that the WHO-Afro prioritises interventions to mitigate the impacts of PHEs on the NIPs.
A Report of Two Cases of Bacteremia by Leuconostoc lactis in Immunocompromised Patients
Authors: Ge Yanmei , Ji Wenli , Hu Song , Tong Huacheng
Published: December 2020

Background Leuconostoc lactis (L lactis) are gram positive cocci and generally considered to be environmental organisms. They were widely regarded as non-pathogenic and therefore of limited clinical significance. Molecular identification was an important technique to guide antibiotic treatment.Case reports We presented two cases of bacteremia caused by L lactis. They were both advanced age, history of various diseases, intravenous catheter implantation, parenteral nutrition, longer hospital stay and using of multiple antibiotics. The 16S rRNA genes of the isolates of these two patients´ blood were sequenced. Conclusions When immunocompromised patients with risk factors develop bacteremia caused by L lactis, adequate attention and effective treatment measures should given timely.
LncRNA SNHG16 Facilitates Liver Metastases of Colorectal Cancer by Modulating Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) via a Positive Feedback Loop with YAP1/TEAD1 Complex
Authors: Xiang Zhenxian , Huang Guoquan , Wu Haitao , He Qiuming , Yang Chaogang , Dou Rongzhang , Liu Qing , Song Jialing , Fang Yan , Wang Shuyi , Xiong bin
Published: December 2020

Background: Circulating tumor cells are important precursor of colorectal cancer metastasis, which attributes to the main cause of cancer-related death. The ability to adopt epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process facilitates CTCs generation, thereby overcoming metastatic bottlenecks and realizing distant metastasis. However, the potential molecular mechanism of CRC EMT remains largely unknown.Methods: RT-qPCR, immunohistochemical staining, and western blot were used to detect the expression of mRNA and protein in CRC. Loss- and gain-of-function approaches were performed to investigate the effect of SNHG16 on CRC cell phenotypes. Function assays, including wounding healing, transwell assay, and clone formation were used to assess the effect of SNHG16 on tumor biological behavior. Then, RNA immunoprecipitation, Chromatin Immunoprecipitation, Co-Immunoprecipitation, GST-pull down, biotin-labeled miR-195-5p pull down, and dual-luciferase assay were performed to uncover the underlying mechanism for molecular interaction. Finally, CRC nude mice xenograft model experiment was performed to evaluate the influence of SNHG16 on tumor progression in vivo Results: Compared with normal tissue and cell line, SNHG16 was significantly upregulated in CRC. Clinical investigation revealed that SNHG16 high expression was correlated with advanced TNM stage, distant metastasis, and poor prognosis of cancer patients. According to Loss- and gain-of-function experiment, SNHG16 could promote CRC proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, mesenchymal-type CTCs (MCTCs) generation, and liver metastasis through YAP1 in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic research indicates that, SNHG16 could act as miRNA sponge to sequester miR-195-5p on Ago2, thereby protecting YAP1 from repression and facilitating CRC liver metastasis and tumor progression. Moreover, YAP1 could combine with TEA Domain Transcription Factor 1 (TEAD1) to form a YAP1/TEAD1 complex, which could in turn bind to the promoter of SNHG16 and regulate its transcription. In addition, both of YAP1 and TEAD1 are indispensable during this process. Finally, we demonstrated that YAP1 significantly promoted the tumor progression, and SNHG16 could rescue the effect of YAP1 on tumor progressionConclusion: Herein, we clarified a hitherto unexplored positive feedback loop between SNHG16 and YAP1/TEAD1. These findings provided new sights in CRC liver metastasis, and it may act as a potential candidate in the treatment of CRC.
The Impact of Altered Metabolism on the Regulation of IGF-II/H19 Imprinting Status in Prostate Cancer.
Authors: Kingshott Georgina , Biernacka Kalina , Sewell Alex , Gwiti Paida , Barker Rachel , Zielinska Hanna , Gilkes Amanda , McCarthy Kathryn , Martin Richard M , Lane J Athene , McGeagh Lucy , Koupparis Anthony , Rowe Edward , Oxley Jon , Holly Jeff , Perks Claire M
Published: December 2020

Background: Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer type and the second major cause of cancer deaths amongst men. A link exists between obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cancer risk. Insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) plays a role in numerous cellular events, including proliferation and survival. The IGF-II gene shares its locus with the lncRNA, H19. IGF-II/H19 was also the first gene to be identified as being ‘imprinted’ – where the paternal copy is not transcribed. This silencing phenomenon is lost in many cancer types. Methods: We disrupted imprinting behaviour in vitro through the alteration of metabolic conditions and quantified it using RFLP, qPCR and pyrosequencing; changes to peptide were measured using RIA. Prostate tissue samples were analysed using ddPCR, pyrosequencing and IHC. We then compared with in silico data, provided by TGCA on the cBIO Portal.Results: Disruption of imprinting behaviour, in vitro, occurs at the molecular level with no changes to peptide. In vivo, most specimens primarily retained imprinting status, apart from a small subset which showed reduced imprinting. A positive correlation was seen between IGF-II and H19 mRNA expression, which concurred with findings of larger Cancer Genome Atlas (TGCA) cohorts. This positive correlation did not affect IGF-II peptide. Conclusions: Type 2 diabetes and / or obesity directly affect regulation growth factors involved in carcinogenesis.Trial registration: Prostate Cancer Evidence of Exercise and Nutrition Trial: nutritional and physical activity interventions for men with localised prostate cancer – feasibility study (ISRCTN99048944). Registered on 17 November 2014
Serglycin-Mediated Selective Reactivation of the Novel YAP/CRISPLD2 Developmental Axis Promotes Metastasis and Sorafenib Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: HU HAO , Xu Liang , Huang Tie-Jun , Luo Fei-Fei , Wang Jing , Mei Yan , Zheng Li-Sheng , Peng Li-Xia , Meng Dong-Fang , Zhang Zhan-Fei , Zhang Shi-Jun , Qian Chao-Nan , Huang Bi-Jun
Published: December 2020

Background: The extracellular matrix (ECM) component serglycin promotes the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis in an autocrine manner. However, the detailed mechanism underlying the roles of serglycin in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metastasis progression remains to be clarified.Methods: Analyzing 123 patients’ serum by ELISA to investigate the association between serglycin expression and HCC metastasis and prognosis. Serglycin, CRISPLD2, and YAP were overexpressed or knocked down with vector or RNAi. The RNA - sequence was used to screen serglycin downstream effectors, followed by bioinformatics, ChIP-PCR, luciferase, and promoter site mutation to identify novel target genes. The metastatic abilities of serglycin were demonstrated by a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments. Immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and western blotting were carried out to demonstrate the potential mechanisms of serglycin.Results: We observed that serglycin was overexpressed in HCC tissues and serum, and its level was associated with metastasis and poor prognosis. By gain- and loss-of-function approaches, we found serglycin affects migratory motility and metastatic capacity in vitro and in vivo, and it's significantly associated with the stemness-like properties. Interestingly, serglycin activated the effector YAP of Hippo pathway, and further study verified the crucial role of serglycin/YAP in tumorigenesis by the DEN-induced HCC mouse model. Furthermore, the CRISPLD2 was selectively upregulated by serglycin, the axis of serglycin / YAP / CRISPLD2 regulated metastatic capacity in HCC cells, it revealed CRISPLD2 was the direct target gene of serglycin-mediated YAP/TEAD1 complex. Besides, serglycin-mediated YAP pathway enhanced cell sorafenib resistance, sorafenib combined with verteporfin reversed serglycin-mediated cellular insensitivity to sorafenib therapy.Conclusions: Autocrine ECM serglycin plays a crucial role in the process of stemness maintenance, tumorigenesis, and metastasis via selective reactivation of the novel YAP/CRISPLD2 developmental axis promotes metastasis and sorafenib resistance in Hepatocellular carcinoma, YAP-TEAD1 inhibitor verteporfin reversed serglycin-mediated cellular sorafenib resistance.
MeDIP-Seq and RNA-Seq Releaved TGFB2 Associated with Disease Resistance to ALV-J Infection in Chickens
Authors: Yan Yiming , Zhang Huihua , Gao Shuang , Zhang Huanmin , Zhang Xinheng , Chen Weiguo , Lin Wencheng , Xie Qingmei
Published: December 2020

BackgroundAvian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV-J) is an oncogenic virus that causes serious economic losses in the poultry industry; unfortunately, there is no effective vaccine. Therefore, ALV-J-susceptible and -resistant chickens had been screened in this study. DNA methylation plays a crucial role in several biological processes, and an increasing number of diseases were proven to be related to alterations of DNA methylation. Thus, we generated and provide the genome wide genome-expression and DNA-methylation profiles by MeDIP-Seq and RNA-Seq in ALV-J-susceptible and -resistant chickens.Results8304 DMRs were identified by MeDIP-Seq analyses and 515 differentially expressed genes were identified by RNA-Seq analysis. Through the results of integration analysis, we screened six candidate genes for screening ALV-J-resistant chickens that were aberrant methylation in the promoter region. Furthermore, functional analyses showed that overexpression of TGFB2 promoted ALV-J replication, which suggested TGFB2 played an important role in disease resistance to ALV-J infection in chickens.ConclusionsThe present study provides new insights into understanding epigenetic changes in ALV-J-susceptible and -resistant chickens, and results provide a basis for breeding disease-resistant-chicken lines.
MK801 Regulates the Expression of Key Osteoarthritis Factors in Osteoarthritis Synovial Fibroblasts Through Complement C5
Authors: Huang Zhi , Feng Yuanyu , Zhu Xiaoxi , Wang Lin , Lu Wei
Published: December 2020

Background: Osteoarthritis is currently one of the most common chronic diseases. As life expectancy increases, its prevalence and incidence are expected to rise. At present, more and more evidences prove the correlation between the complement system and OA. This study aims to investigate complement C5's influence on the effect of MK801 on osteoarthritis synovial fibroblasts (OA-SFs).Methods: We used IL-1b to induce OA-SFs derived from mice to obtain OA-SFs. And we performed RT-PCR and Western Blot assays to evaluate the expression levels of associated mRNA and protein. The alteration of MAC expression on OA-SFs cell membrane was evaluated by immunofluorescence assay. The expression of related inflammatory factors of OA-SFs was evaluated by ELISA experiment.Results: MK801 could significantly inhibit the expression of osteoarthritis (OA) marker factors, such as: membrane attack complex (MAC), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP13). Meanwhile, MK801 can significantly inhibit the expression of complement C5 (C5) in OA-SFs. Immunofluorescence assay showed that MAC expression on OA-SFs cell membrane was significantly inhibited by MK801. The nucleo-plasmic separation experiment demonstrated that MK801 could significantly inhibit the activation of Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway in OA-SFs. Futhermore, koncking down the expression of C5 reversed the inhibition MK801 on the expression of OA-SFs inflammatory factors.Conclusions: These results illustrated two points: first, MK801 inhibited the generation of MAC and the release of inflammation factors in OA-SFs through C5; second: MK801 inhibited the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway in OA-SFs.
Normal Sudanese Spirometeric Values for Police Men
Authors: Bakhit Barakat Mohazab , Musa Omer Abd_elaziz , Malla Mohanad Hassan
Published: December 2020

BackgroundSpirometric values for police officers in the police hospital, Khartoum, Sudan were observed to show higher values than predicted.1 Reference values are important for diagnosis of asthma and chronic bronchitisMethodsFor deriving a new reference value for adult police men, a cross- sectional study was performed on 161 adult male police officers, aged 20–50 years in (June- December 2012) in Khartoum state in different police units. Data were obtained through a questionnaire, pulmonary function testing and taking anthropometric measurements, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) were measured using a microplus spirometer and a peak flow meter. Lung function values and anthropometric measurements were correlated and regression equations were derivedResultsAdult police males had a significantly higher FVC, FEV1and PEFR [3.96 ± 0.56 L , 3.61 ± 0.52 L and 564.1 ± 70.4 L/min respectively] than those of normal adult Sudanese males [3.68 ± 0.22 L , 3.35 ± 0.23 L and 505.9 ± 19.1L/min respectively]. A positive correlation was found between lung function and height and a negative correlation with age. Regression equations of normal predicted values were derived for police officer FVC (L) [0.027 X (cm) – 0.039 X A (years) +0.345], FEV1 (L) [0.0264 X (cm) – 0.036 X A (years) +0.0105] and PEFR (L/min) [1.599 X (cm) – 4.207 X A (years) + 329.349.Conclusionsit seems that the continuous training of police officers produced higher lung volumes and a separate reference values tables should be used for them
Comparison of Hospitalized Patients with Severe Pneumonia Caused by COVID-19 and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H7N9): A Retrospective Study from A Designated Hospital
Authors: Gu Binbin , Yao Lin , Zhu XinYun , Tang Pei-jun , Chen Cheng
Published: December 2020

Background: Considerable attention has been focused on clinical features of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), it is also important for clinicians to differentiate it from influenza virus infections.Methods: The clinical data of 23 cases of H7N9 and 23 cases of COVID-19 with severe pneumonia were collected. The comparisons were performed with the t test, Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher exact test or the chi-squared test, and multivariable logistic regression analysis.Results: All of the cases were under the circumstance of sufficient medical staff and medical supplies. Radiologically, severe COVID-19 patients had less consolidation and pleural effusion, but more crazy-paving pattern than severe H7N9 patients (p<0.05). Clinically, compared to severe H7N9, severe COVID-19 patients were more inclined to surfer to relative better disease severity score, less secondary bacterial infection, a shorter time to beginning absorption on CT, but a longer duration of viral shedding from the admission (p<0.05). Although more severe H7N9 patients needed non-invasive respiratory support, these two groups ultimately yielded comparable mortality. Based on multiple logistic regression analysis, severe COVID-19 infection was associated with a lower risk of the presence of severe ARDS (OR 0.964, 95% [CI] 0.931-0.998, p=0.040), but exhibited longer duration of viral shedding (OR 0.734, 95% [CI] 0.550-0.980, p=0.036) than severe H7N9 infection.Conclusion: Although the conditions of severe H7N9 patients seemed to be more critical than those of severe COVID-19 patients, the relatively lower mortality of these two severe cases is to be expected in context of sufficient medical supplies.
Prenatal Whole Exome Sequencing Reveals a Novel CDH1 Mutation Associated With Blepharo-Cheilo-Dontic Syndrome
Authors: Peng Ying , Shu Li , Xi Hui , Luo Yingchun , Wang Xiaofeng , Pang Jialun , Yang Shuting , Liang Changbiao , Tang Chengyuan , Wang Hua
Published: December 2020

Background: The cleft lip with or without palate (CL/P) is the most prevalent congenital craniofacial abnormality. This study aims to provide molecular diagnosis for patients with CL/P in a Chinese family, and then offer suggestions for future pregnancy for this family.Methods: Karyotyping, single nucleotide polymorphism array analysis, whole-exome sequencing (WES), and Sanger sequencing were applied to identify the underlying genetic cause for the clinical phenotypes. The functional effect of the identified mutation was evaluated through immunofluorescent analysis of the expression of wild or mutant protein that was transiently expressed. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and ultrasound testing were conducted for a new pregnancy of this family. Results: A novel missense mutation (c.1418T>A/p.(Val473Asp)) in CDH1 was identified in the family members affected with CL/P. Functional analysis showed that this mutation changed the subcellular localization of the protein. The NIPT and ultrasound testing respectively revealed the new pregnancy carried no CDH1 mutation and facial dysmorphic features, and a healthy baby was delivered.Conclusion: The affected family members were diagnosed with a syndromic CL/P called Blepharo-Cheilo-Dontic(BCD) Syndrome. This study identified a novel CDH1 mutation for CL/P, expanded the mutation spectrum, and contributed to the genetic diagnosis and counseling of this disorder. This study also provided an example of the application of NIPT for BCD Syndrome.