bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of Sexual Health in Persons with Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis from A Physiotherapeutic Perspective: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Strid Emma Nilsing , Hamping Marie Ekelius
Published: May 2020

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the world’s most common form of arthritis and a common cause of musculoskeletal pain and disability. Persons living with chronic diseases often have affected sexual health because of pain and limited function. Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease but there is scarce knowledge about how sexual health is experienced. The aim of this study was to explore the experience of sexual health in persons with hip and/or knee OA.Methods: This study has a qualitative design. Participants were recruited from the Swedish Quality Register Better Management of Patients with Osteoarthritis (BOA). To reach a variety of experiences and strengthen credibility, a strategic sampling strategy based on age, sex and hip and knee OA was used. Semi-structured telephone interviews were held with 20 persons with hip and/or knee OA. Data were analysed with qualitative content analysis and inductive category development was applied.Results: The analysis resulted in two main categories: Individual differences in how sexual health is affected by hip and knee OA; and Varying needs for communication about sexual health. Each main category comprised two subcategories.Conclusions: Painful hip and knee OA limits sexual health and individuals make adjustments or develop strategies to maintain sexual life. Sexual health is not talked about during consultations with physiotherapists or other health care professionals, indicating that patients with OA may have unmet needs regarding their sexual health. Further research is needed on how to provide support and information about sexual health in OA.
WITHDRAWN: Workspace Analysis and Optimal Design of 3-PRR Planar Parallel Manipulators
Authors: M.R. Shivakumar , Srikri R. , Sr R. , Sailesh Sree , Reddy Manoj Kumar , Tejaprakash Kakarla , Dash Anjan
Published: May 2020

In the optimum design of parallel manipulators, workspace of the manipulator is of greater importance. The shape and area of the workspace are the main parameters under this. In this paper, a new geometrical approach is presented to determine the shape and size of the constant orientation workspace for the 3-PRR planar parallel manipulators. All possibilities of shapes of workspaces are determined with variation of different parameters. For each shape of workspace corresponding geometrical conditions are also put forth. Closed from area expression of workspace is derived by geometrical approach for each shape. Such closed form expression of area is not possible with non-dimensional approach. This becomes extremely useful during optimal design procedure. A look-up table is also presented seeing which the designer can choose geometrical conditions between different parameters which will ensure a void free workspace. A case study is presented wherein a user gives his required workspace area and an algorithm is presented which gives all possible combinations of geometrical parameters satisfying the workspace area requirement. Then based on various considerations including singularity analysis an optimal parallel manipulator is offered for the task which does not have any void within the workspace having least/nil singularities.
Glycemic Index of three Oral Nutritional Supplements in healthy adults: a single-blind crossover study
Authors: Liu Haili , Li Yanjie , Hao Jingyu , Leng Houxi , Ge Sheng , Zhao Zifu
Published: May 2020

Background: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the glycemic index (GI) and insulin index (II) of three oral nutritional supplements (ONS) in healthy adults. Methods: A single-blind crossover study was conducted in 12 healthy adults. Fasted subjects consumed one of three treatments at each visit, with a one week wash out period between visits. Every subject received all treatments. Treatments included two newly developed ONS (powder A, powder B) as well as a positive control Nutren ® Diabetes (powder C). Blood glucose and insulin levels at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 240 mins were measured after the volunteers consumed one of the treatments which all of containing 50g carbohydrates per serving. The Wolever method was used to compute the area under the curve (AUC) for blood glucose and insulin, and GI and II of three powders were obtained. Results: Using the GI and II of 50g glucose powder as reference standard, the GI of nutrition powders A, B and C are 44, 54, 29, respectively, and the II of nutrition powders A, B and C are 163, 182, 119, respectively. Conclusions: Among the two newly developed ONS formulas, powder A is more suitable as an ONS for diabetics.Trial registration: This trial was registered on www.chictr.org.cn as ChiCTR2000031287 on 03/26/2020.
Misuse, perceived risk, and safety issues of household insecticides: qualitative findings from focus groups in Arequipa, Peru
Authors: Larson Anika , Paz-Soldan Valerie , Arevalo Claudia , Brown Joanna , Condori-Pino Carlos , Levy Michael , Neyra Ricardo Castillo
Published: May 2020

Background The current body of research on insecticide use in Peru deals primarily with application of insecticides offered through Ministry of Health-led campaigns against vector-borne disease. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding the individual use, choice and perceptions of insecticides which may influence uptake of public health-based insecticide initiatives and contribute to the thousands of deaths annually from acute pesticide poisoning in Peru.Methods Residents (n = 49) of the Alto Selva Alegre and CC districts of peri-urban Arequipa participated in seven focus group discussions (FGD). Using a FGD guide, two facilitators led the discussion and conducted an activity in which participants advertised insecticides (physically available during the FGD) to elicit perceptions of currently available insecticides. Focus group content was transcribed, and qualitative data were analyzed with Atlas.ti and coded using an inductive process to generate major themes related to use and choice of insecticides, and perceived risks associated with insecticide use.Results There was not consensus on a preferred form, strength, or brand of insecticides; valued characteristics such as strength and effectiveness were often associated with negative characteristics such as odor and health impacts. The perceived risks associated with insecticides included both short- and long-term health impacts, and safety for children emerged as a priority. However, some participants reported applying insecticides directly to children and their beds. Some participants attempted to reduce the risk of insecticide use with informal, and likely ineffective, personal protective equipment and by timing application when household members were away. “Agropecuarios” (agricultural supply stores) were considered a trusted source of information about insecticides and their health risks.Conclusions It is crucial to characterize misuse and perceptions of health impacts and risks of insecticides at the local level, as well as to find common themes and patterns across populations to inform national and regional programs to prevent acute insecticide poisoning and increase community participation in insecticide-based vector control campaigns. We detected risky practices and beliefs about personal protective equipment, risk indicators, and safety levels that could inform such preventive campaigns, as well as trusted information sources such as agricultural stores for partnerships in disseminating information.
Does physiotherapy applied in conjunction with compression brace treatment in patients with pectus carinatum have efficacy? A randomized controlled study
Authors: ALACA Nuray , ALACA İhsan , Yüksel Mustafa
Published: May 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Continuous monitoring of plant sodium transport dynamics using clinical PET
Authors: Ruwanpathirana Gihan P. , Plett Darren , Williams Robert C. , Davey Catherine E. , Johnston Leigh A. , Kronzucker Herbert J.
Published: May 2020

BackgroundThe absorption, translocation, accumulation and excretion of substances are fundamental processes in all organisms including plants, and have been successfully studied using radiotracers labelled with and since 1939. Sodium is one of the most damaging ions to the growth and productivity of crops. Due to the significance of understanding sodium transport in plants, a significant number of studies have been carried out to examine sodium influx, compartmentation, and efflux using - or 24Na-labeled salts. Notably, however, most of these studies employed destructive methods, which has limited our understanding of sodium flux and distribution characteristics in real time, in live plants.Positron emission tomography (PET) has been used successfully in medical research and diagnosis for decades. Due to its ability to visualise and assess physiological and metabolic function, PET imaging has also begun to be employed in plant research. Here, we report the use of a clinical PET scanner with a tracer to examine -influx dynamics in barley plants (Hordeum vulgare L. spp. vulgare – cultivar Bass) under variable nutrient levels, alterations in the day/night light cycle, and the presence of sodium channel inhibitors.Results3D dynamic PET images of whole plants show readily visible translocation from roots to shoots in each examined plant, with rates influenced by both nutrient status and channel inhibition. PET images show that plants cultivated in low-nutrient media transport more than plants cultivated in high-nutrient media, and that uptake is suppressed in the presence of a cation-channel inhibitor. A distinct diurnal pattern of influx was discernible in curves displaying rates of change of relative radioactivity. Plants were found to absorb significantly more during the light period, and anticipate the change in the light/dark cycle by adjusting the sodium influx rate downward in the dark period, an effect not previously described experimentally.ConclusionsWe demonstrate the utility of clinical PET/CT scanners for real-time monitoring of the temporal dynamics of sodium transport in plants. The effects of nutrient deprivation and of ion channel inhibition on sodium influx into barley plants are shown in two proof-of-concept experiments, along with the first-ever 3D-imaging of the light and dark sodium uptake cycles in plants. This method carries significant potential for plant biology research and, in particular, in the context of genetic and treatment effects on sodium acquisition and toxicity in plants.*The authors contributed equally
Mu Transposition in the Absence of the Target-capture Protein MuB Reveals New Roles of MuB in Target Immunity and Target Selection, and Redraws the Boundaries of the Insular Ter Region of E. coli
Authors: Walker David M , Harshey Rasika
Published: May 2020

Background The target capture protein MuB is responsible for the high efficiency of phage Mu transposition within the E. coli genome. However, some targets are off-limits, such as regions immediately outside the Mu ends (cis-immunity) as well as the entire ~37 kb genome of Mu (Mu genome immunity). Paradoxically, MuB is responsible for cis-immunity and is also implicated in Mu genome immunity, but via different mechanisms. This study was undertaken to dissect the role of MuB in target choice in vivo.Results We tracked Mu transposition from six different starting locations on the E. coli genome, in the presence and absence of MuB. The data reveal that Mu’s ability to sample the entire genome during a single hop in a clonal population is independent of MuB, and that MuB is responsible for cis-immunity, plays a lesser role in Mu genome immunity, and facilitates insertions into transcriptionally active regions. Unexpectedly, transposition patterns in the absence of MuB have helped extend the boundaries of the insular Ter segment of the E. coli genome.Conclusions The results in this study demonstrate unambiguously the operation of two distinct mechanisms of Mu target immunity, only one of which is wholly dependent on MuB. The study also reveals several interesting and hitherto unknown aspects of Mu target choice in vivo, particularly the role of MuB is facilitating the capture of promoter and translation start site targets, likely by displacing macromolecular complexes engaged in gene expression.
Early and non-consensual sexual debut among Chinese men who have sex with men: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tang Weiming , Wang Yehua , Huang Wenting , Wu Dan , Yang Fan , Xu Yongshi , Ong Jason J. , Fu Hongyun , Yang Bin , Wang Cheng , Ma Wei , Wei Chongyi , Tucker Joseph D.
Published: May 2020

Background
Early sexual debut and non-consensual sex have been linked to higher sexual risk and STI infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) in high-income countries. This study aimed to examine early and non-consensual sexual debut among Chinese MSM and to evaluate factors associated with early sexual debut and non-consensual sex.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016 among Chinese men born biologically male, ≥ 18 years old, and who had ever engaged in anal sex with a man. Participants answered questions regarding socio-demographics, condomless sex, age at anal sexual debut with a man, and whether the first anal sex was consensual sex. Factors associated with an early sexual debut (< 18 years old) and non-consensual sex at sexual debut were evaluated.
Results
Overall, 2031 eligible men completed the survey. The mean age of sexual debut was 20.7 (SD = 4.3) years old. 17.6% (358/2031) of men reported early sexual debut, and 5.0% (101/2031) reported a non-consensual sexual debut. Early sexual debut was associated with having more male sexual partners (adjusted OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.06–1.15) and condomless anal sex in last three months (AOR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.34–2.18) in last three months. MSM whose sexual debut was non-consensual were more likely to have condomless anal sex (AOR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.17–2.66), and to have reported an early sexual debut (AOR = 2.72, 95% CI 1.75–4.21).
Conclusions
Many Chinese MSM reported early sexual debut and non-consensual sex, both of which are associated with sexual risk behaviors and drive STI transmission. These findings highlight the need for improving sexual health education among young people.
Microbiomes of clownfish and their symbiotic host anemone converge before their first physical contact.
Authors: Audet-Gilbert Émie , Sylvain François-Étienne , Bouslama Sidki , Derome Nicolas
Published: May 2020

Background One of the most charismatic, and yet mostly unexplained example of mutualistic interaction is the partnership of clownfish and its symbiotic sea anemone. The mechanism explaining this tolerance currently relies on the molecular mimicry of clownfish epithelial mucus, which could serve as camouflage, preventing the anemone's nematocysts' discharge. Resident bacteria are known as key drivers of epithelial mucus chemical signature in vertebrates. A recent study has proposed a restructuration of the skin microbiota in a generalist clown fish when first contacting its symbiotic anemone. We explored a novel hypothesis by testing the effect of remote interaction on epithelial microbiota restructuration in both partners. Methods With metataxonomics, we investigated epithelial microbiota dynamics of 18 pairs of percula clownfish (Amphiprion percula) and their symbiotic anemone Heteractis magnifica in remote interaction, physical interaction and control groups for both partners during a four weeks trial.Results Physical and Remote Interaction groups’ results evidence epithelial microbiota convergence between both partners as soon as 15 minutes after fish and anemone have been placed in the same water system. This convergence occurred preceding any physical contact between partners, and was maintained during the two-weeks interaction period in both contact groups. After the interaction period, community structure of test anemones gradually shifted back to the state of their controls, whereas skin community structure of test clownfish maintained the interaction signature two weeks after fish-anemone pairs separation. Furthermore, the interaction signature persistence was observed both in Physical and Remote Interaction group fishes, thus suggesting that water-mediated chemical communication between symbiotic partners was strong enough to shift the skin microbiota durably, even after fish-anemone pairs separation. Finally, our results suggest that fish-anemone convergent microbiota restructuration was increasingly associated with the parallel recruitment of three Flavobacteriaceae strains closely related to a tyrosinase-producing Cellulophaga tyrosinoxydans. Conclusions Our study shows that bacterial community restructuration, in the acclimation process, does not only rely on direct physical contact. Furthermore, our results challenge, for the first time, the traditional unidirectional chemical camouflage hypothesis, as we argue that convergence of the epithelial microbiota of both partners may play essential roles in establishing mutual acceptance.
Reverse transcriptase inhibition potentiates target therapy in BRAF-mutant melanomas: effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis, DNA-damage, ROS induction and mitochondrial membrane depolarization
Authors: Fattore Luigi , Malpicci Debora , Milite Ciro , Castellano Sabrina , Sbardella Gianluca , Botti Gerardo , Ascierto Paolo Antonio , Mancini Rita , Ciliberto Gennaro
Published: May 2020

Target therapies based on BRAF and MEK inhibitors (MAPKi) have changed the therapeutic landscape for metastatic melanoma patients bearing mutations in the BRAF kinase. However, the emergence of drug resistance imposes the necessity to conceive novel therapeutic strategies capable to achieve a more durable disease control. In the last years, retrotransposons laying in human genome mostly encompassing Long Interspersed Nuclear Element1 (LINE-1) have been shown to undergo activation during tumorigenesis, where they contribute to genomic instability. LINE-1 activation can be efficiently controlled with reverse transcriptase inhibitors (RTIs) frequently used in the treatment of AIDS. These drugs have demonstrated anti-proliferative effects in several cancer models, including also metastatic melanoma. However, to our knowledge no previous study investigated the capability of RTIs to mitigate drug resistance to target therapy in BRAF-mutant melanomas. In this short report we show that the non-nucleoside RTI, SPV122 in combination with MAPKi strongly inhibits BRAF-mutant melanoma cell growth, induces apoptosis, and delays the emergence of resistance to target therapy in vitro. Mechanistically, this combination strongly induces DNA double-strand breaks, mitochondrial membrane depolarization and increased ROS levels. Our results shed further light on the molecular activity of RTI in melanoma and pave the way to their use as a novel therapeutic option to improve the efficacy of target therapy.
Analysis of Bioavailable Toluene by Using Recombinant Luminescent Bacterial Biosensors with Different Promoters
Authors: Wang Guey-Horng , Tsai Teh-Hua , Kui Chun-Chi , Cheng Chiu-Yu , Huang Tzu-Ling , Chung Yingchien
Published: May 2020

In this study, we constructed recombinant luminescent Escherichia coli with T7, T3, and SP6 promoters inserted between tol and lux genes as toluene biosensors and evaluated their sensitivity, selectivity, and specificity for measuring bioavailable toluene in in groundwater and river water. The luminescence intensity of each biosensor depended on temperature, incubation time, ionic strength, and concentrations of toluene and coexisting organic compounds. Toluene induced the highest luminescence intensity in recombinant lux-expressing E. coli with the T7 promoter [T7-lux-E. coli, limit of detection (LOD) = 0.05 μM], followed by that in E. coli with the T3 promoter (T3-lux-E. coli, LOD = 0.2 μM) and SP6 promoter (SP6-lux-E. coli, LOD = 0.5 μM). Luminescence activities may have been synergistically or antagonistically affected by coexisting organic compounds other than toluene; nevertheless, low concentrations of benzoate and toluene analogs had no such effect. In reproducibility experiments, the biosensors had low relative standard deviation (4.3%–5.8%). SP6-lux-E. coli demonstrated high adaptability to environmental interference. T7-lux-E. coli biosensor—with low LOD, wide measurement range (0.05–500 μM), and acceptable deviation (−14.3% to 9.1%)—is an efficient toluene biosensor. This is the first study evaluating recombinant lux E. coli with different promoters for their potential application in toluene measurement in actual water bodies.
Plasmodium Falciparum Genetic Factors Rather Than The Hosts' Are Likely To Drive Resistance To Acts In Ghana
Authors: Hodoameda Peter , Duah-Quashie Nancy Odurowah , Hagan Charles Oheneba , Matrevi Sena , Abuaku Benjamin , Koram Kwadwo A , Quashie Neils B
Published: May 2020

Background Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) partner drugs, currently used in Ghana are lumefantrine, amodiaquine, and piperaquine. Plasmodium falciparum isolates with reduced susceptibility to these partner drugs may affect treatment outcome. Mutations in Pfmdr1 gene is linked to reduced parasite susceptibility to amodiaquine and lumefantrine. In addition, the potency of the partner drugs in vivo depends on the metabolism by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme in the host. Mutations in the CYP2C8 and CYP3A4 genes are linked to reduced metabolism of amodiaquine and lumefantrine respectively in vitro. This study investigated the host and parasite genetic factors affecting the susceptibility of the malaria parasite to ACT partner drugs.Methods Archived samples from 240 patients aged ≤ 9 years participating in antimalarial drug resistance survey in of Ghana and given AL or AA were selected and analyzed. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by Sanger sequencing was used to determine the polymorphisms in CYP2C8, CYP3A4, and Pfmdr1 genes.Results For CYP3A4, all had wild type alleles suggesting that the hosts are good metabolizers of lumefantrine. For CYP2C8 60% had wild type alleles, 35% heterozygous and 5% homozygous recessive alleles suggesting efficient metabolism of amodiaquine by the hosts. For Pfmdr1 gene, at codon 86, 95% were wild type (N86) and 5% mutant (Y86). For codon 184, 36% were wild type (Y184) and 64% mutant (F184) while for codons 1034, 1042 and 1246, 100% (all) were wild type. The high prevalence of NFD suggest presence of parasites with reduced susceptibility to lumefantrine and not amodiaquine. Delayed clearance was observed in individuals with mutations in the Pfmdr1 gene and not Cytochrome 450 gene. Both synonymous and nonsynonymous mutations were observed in the Pfmdr1 at low prevalence.Conclusion The outcome of this study indicates that parasite's genetic factors rather than the hosts' are likely to drive resistance to ACTs in Ghana.
Effectiveness of Peer-Supervision on Paediatric Fever Treatment Among Registered Private Drug Sellers in East-Central Uganda: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Bagonza Arthur , Kitutu Freddy Eric , Peterson Stefan , Mårtensson Andreas , Mutto Milton , Awor Phyllis , Mukanga David , Wamani Henry
Published: May 2020

Background: Appropriate treatment of paediatric fever in rural areas remains a challenge and may be partly due to inadequate supervision of licensed drug sellers. This study assessed the effectiveness of peer-supervision among drug sellers on appropriate treatment of pneumonia symptoms, uncomplicated malaria and non-bloody diarrhoea among children less than five years of age in the intervention (Luuka) and comparison (Buyende) districts, in East-Central Uganda.Methods: Data on pneumonia symptoms, uncomplicated malaria and non-bloody diarrhoea among children less than five years of age was abstracted from drug shop sick child registers over a 12-month period; six months before and six months after introduction of peer-supervision. Interrupted time series was applied to determine the effectiveness of the peer-supervision intervention on appropriate treatment of pneumonia, uncomplicated malaria and non-bloody diarrhoea among children less than five years of age attending drug shops in East Central Uganda.Results: The proportion of children treated appropriately for pneumonia symptoms was 10.84% (P < 0.05, CI = [1.75, 19.9]) higher, for uncomplicated malaria was 1.46% (P = 0.79, CI = [-10.43, 13.36]) higher, and for non-bloody diarrhoea was 4.00% (p < 0.05, CI = [-7.95, -0.13]) lower in the intervention district than the comparison district, respectively.Post-intervention trend results showed an increase of 1.21% (p =0.008, CI = [0.36, 2.05]) in the proportion appropriately treated for pneumonia symptoms, no difference in appropriate treatment for uncomplicated malaria, and a reduction of 1% (p <0.06, CI = [-1.95, 0.02]) in the proportion of children appropriately treated for non-bloody diarrhoea, respectively.Conclusions: Peer-supervision increased the proportion of children less than five years of age that received appropriate treatment for pneumonia symptoms but not for uncomplicated malaria and non-bloody diarrhoea. Implementation of community level interventions to improve paediatric fever management should consider including peer-supervision among drug sellers.
What the impact of the economic crisis on the Brazilian’s lifestyle between 2013 and 2016? A long-term trend cross-sectional study.
Authors: Bezerra Sonny Állan , Santos Denilson Menezes , Oliveira Michele Maria , Costa Claudia Vanisse , Oliveira Elaynne de , Rezende Levy Silva , Salvador Emanuel Péricles
Published: May 2020

Background: Brazil has been going through a period of economic crisis since 2015 and the impact on health indicators and the quality of life of the most recent crisis is unclear. This study sought to establish a relationship between the impact of the economic crisis experienced by Brazil during the period 2013-2016 and the lifestyle of adult populations in the 27 capitals of the Brazilian state.Results: According to the binary logistic regression model, at least completing secondary education increases the probability of individuals presenting higher LS by 4.9% (OR=1,049, 95% CI 1,029–1,070); being involved in some type of relationship decreases the probability of presenting a higher LS by 5.3% (OR=0.947, 95% CI 0.029-0.965); having an adequate body mass index increases LS by 27.3% (OR=1.273, 95% CI 1,245.10.10). Living in a city with a lower unemployment rate increases the probability of having a higher LS score by 3.8%(OR=1,038, 95% CI 1,012-1.064); living in a city with a more basic food basket decreases the probability of having a higher LS score by 5.4% (OR=0.946, 95% CI 0.910-0.982). Presenting higher yields decreases the probability of having a higher LS by 12% (OR=0.880, 95% CI 0.860-0.900). In addition, there was an increase in the percentage of leisure-time PA in 2015 (20.9%), followed by a decrease to 18.1% in 2016, after a stabilization period in 2013 (19.5%) and 2014 (19.6%). The physical exercise showed a steady annual increase, with a score of 49.6% in 2013, followed by 50.9% and 51.9% in 2014 and 2015, respectively, and ending with 54.5% in 2016. The "Watch TV 5x per week" indicator recorded a sharp drop between 2013 (27.9%) and 2015 (22.7%), as well as the consumption of soft drinks, which went from stable values in 2013 (19.5%) and 2014 (19%) 17.3% in 2015.Conclusion: In the case of Brazil, the economic crisis initially started in 2015 had a negative impact on the population over time, but these effects were only observed in the second year of crisis, being preceded by a temporary improvement of indicators.
Larvicidal Effect of Some Selected Salts Against the Dengue Vector Mosquito, Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in Bangladesh
Authors: Iqbal Mohammad Zaglul Haider , Bashar Kabirul , Hawlader Abdul Jabber
Published: May 2020

Background The container breeding mosquito, Aedes aegypti is the major universal vector of dengue viruses capable of causing dengue fever (DF), dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Vector control may have a potential role in reducing the morbidity and mortality of human by DHF/DSS. The purposes of this work were to evaluate the larvicidal effect of some salt solutions against the larvae of Ae. aegypti.Methods Freshly collected larvae were transferred to the laboratory and reared using rainwater as a rearing medium with yeast granules as larval food. Five salts i.e. AgNO3, HgCl2, CdCl2, CuSO4, and CuCl2 were tested to assess the larvicidal effect on both the 1st and 3rd instars larvae of Ae. aegypti. Serial concentrations (0, 1, 3, 5, 7 &10 ppm) of each salt were prepared by using distilled water as the solvent.Results Silver nitrate (AgNO3) was noted as the most effective larvicide followed by HgCl2, CdCl2, CuSO4 and CuCl2 against Ae. aegypti larvae. The LC50 of AgNO3 against 1st and 3rd instars larvae were 0.118 and 1.659 ppm, and the LC90 were 2 and 3.347 ppm, respectively. The LT50 of AgNO3(1 ppm) against 1st and 3rd instars larvae were 0.575 and 30.42hrs, and the LT90 was 6 and 67.49 hrs, respectively. All of the first instar larvae were killed and failed to pupate with every salt of each concentration (1–10 ppm) within 7 days. Whereas 3rd instar larvae were also unable to pupate entirely in AgNO3 and HgCl2 solutions but very few (5-36.66%) pupation was found at 7 ppm & higher concentrations of CdCl2, CuSo4, and CuCl2 salts. CdCl2, CuSo4 and CuCl2 prevented 66.66%, 57.14% and 50% adult emergences from pupae at 5 ppm concentration respectively. The order of decrease of toxicity for larval mortality was AgNO3 > HgCl2 > CdCl2 > CuSO4 > CuCl2 and for prevention of pupation & adult emergence was AgNO3 ≥ HgCl2 > CdCl2 > CuSO4 > CuCl2.Conclusions AgNO3 was found as a very good potential in the killing of Aedes aegypti larvae, prevention of pupae formation and adult emergence. Therefore, the results obtained could be considered a contribution to the search for eco-friendly larvicides of natural origin. Further studies are needed to understand the residual aquatic toxicity of this salt in the field.
Hsa_circ_0029693 (circ-LATS2) promotes cell proliferation and regulates WNT5A via miR-4686 in breast cancer cells.
Authors: Hu Jiashu , Hua Kaiyao , Ji Changle , Wang Xuehui , Song Hongming , Wu Tianqi , Xie Dan , Daniel Twingle , Tahan Mariah , Zheng Xueyu , Fang Lin
Published: May 2020

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most malignant form of tumor in women, which threatens females’ health. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs, can act as a disease biomarker and endogenous “sponge” molecules for microRNAs (miRNAs). circRNAs may also influence the expression of their parent gene. LATS2 is a vital suppressor gene in Hippo pathway, which is a signaling cascade composed of a group of conserved kinases. The Hippo pathway plays an important role in almost all cancer types. Methods: Colony formation assays, MTT assays, wound healing assays, xenografts mice experiment, qRT-PCR, western blot assays, immunohistochemical staining assays, dual-luciferase reporter assays and Fluorescence in situ hybridization. Student’s t-test was used to analyse the results.Results: We discovered that circular RNA hsa_circ_0029693 (circ-LATS2), an exonic circRNA, are highly expressed in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, in BC patients’ samples, higher expression of circ-LATS2 was significantly related to higher percentage of Ki-67 expression; however the expression of circ-LATS2 was higher in HER2 negative BC patients compared to HER2 positive ones. We investigated the potential function and mechanism of circ-LATS2 action in BC. The results suggested that circ-LATS2 promoted cell proliferation, growth and migration. Through western blot and immunohistochemical staining assays, we found that circ-LATS2 could influence LATS2 expression. We also discovered that there was an inverse expression relationship between miR-4686 and circ-LATS2, suggesting that circ-LATS2 might act as an endogenous “sponge” for miR-4686. Using dual-luciferase reporter assays, we confirmed that circ-LATS2 can bind miR-4686. Increased miR-4686 expression caused a reduction in the protein levels of WNT5A, which is a putative target of miR-4686. We confirm this using dual-luciferase reporter assays that revealed that miR-4686 targets WNT5A by binding its 3’-untranslated region (3’UTR). Conclusions: Our results showed that circ-LATS2 expression in BC patients’ samples were significantly related to Ki-67 expression. In addition, circ-LATS2 acted as a promoter of proliferation and growth of breast cancer cells. These indicated that circ-LATS2 is a proliferative factor, similar to Ki-67; it also acts as a co-biomarker with Ki-67 in clinical treatment.
RBMX promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression and sorafenib resistance by stabilizing BLACAT1
Authors: Song Yanan , He Saifei , Ma Xing , Zhang Miao , Zhuang Juhua , Wang Guoyu , Ye Ying , Xia Wei
Published: May 2020

Background：Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the top five causes of cancer death. The interaction of RNA binding proteins and long no coding RNA play vital role in malignant tumor progression, and even contribute to chemoresistance.Method：RBMX and Lnc BLACAT1 were measured in HCC patient’s tissue and commercial cell lines (Huh7 and Hep3B). And there relationship was verified by Co-IP assay and Overexpression experiment. Furthermore, the cell proliferation, colony formation and drug resistant assay were performed for effect evaluation of RBMX and BLACAT1in HCC cell lines.Result：Both overexpression and positive correlation between RBMX and BLACAT1 were validated in HCC cell lines. Co-IP analysis also shows BLACAT1 could be specially bond by RBMX and increased the expression of BLACAT1. This mechanism of action is beneficial for cancer cells proliferation, anti-apoptotic, and colony formation with sorafenib treatment. Further, the autophagy level and cancer cell stemness were also improved when RBMX/BLACAT1 upregulated.Conclusion：Our study indicated that hepatoma cells can improve their proliferation, colony ability and autophagy by RBMX stabilizing BLACAT1 expression then promote HCC development and drug resistance, hence, RBMX could be considered as novel therapeutic target for HCC treatment strategies.
Validation of Training Need Assessment Questionnaire Among Health Care Workers in Reproductive, Maternal and Newborn Health Care in Low-Income Countries
Authors: Mwansisya Tumbwene Elieza , Mbekenga Columba , Isangula Kahabi , Mwasha Loveluck , Pallangyo Eunice , Edwards Grace , Orwa James , Mantel Michaela , Mugerwa Micheal , Subi Leonard , Mrema Secilia , Siso David , Selestine Edna , Temmerman Marleen , Brownie Sharon
Published: May 2020

Background: Continuous professional development (CPD) trainings have been reported to enhance health care workers’ knowledge and skills, improve retention and recruitment, improve quality of patient care and reduce patients’ mortality. This calls for validated training needs assessment tools for facilitating the design of effective CPD programs. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using self-administered questionnaires. The survey involved selected Reproductive, Maternal and Neonatal Health (RMNH) health care workers from 7 hospitals, 12 of 51 health centers and 17 of 292 dispensaries within eight districts of Mwanza Region, Tanzania. The training needs assessment (TNA) tool adapted from the Hennessy-Hicks’ Training Needs Assessment Questionnaire (TNAQ) was used for data collection. Results: A total of 153 healthcare workers participated in this study. The majority of participants were females 83% (127) with average age of 39 years. Nurses formed a majority of participants 76% (n=115) with relatively similar mean duration in service or in RMNH of 7.9 years. The reliability of the adapted TNAQ was found to be 0.954. Relatedly, indexes for construct validity indicated that CFI was equal to 1, Chi-square Mean/Degree of Freedom (CMIN/DF) was equal to 0.000 and Mean Square Error Approximation (RMSEA) was equal to 0.185. Conclusion: The adapted TNAQ appear to be reliable and valid for identifying professional training needs of health care workers in RMNH health care settings. The tool has a considerable level of psychometric properties that makes it suitable for assessing the training needs among health care workers of different cadres. However, the applicability of the TNAQ in the wider health care systems remains unclear. Future studies with a large sample size are required to test the use of TNAQ in wider health care systems and learning opportunities.
Manipulative and Manual Therapies in the Management of Patients with Prior Lumbar Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Daniels Clinton J , Cupler Zachary A. , Gliedt Jordan A , Walters Sheryl , Schielke Alec L , Hinkeldey Nathan A , Golley Derek J , Hawk Cheryl
Published: May 2020

BackgroundThe purpose was to identify, summarize, and rate scholarly literature that describes manipulative and manual therapy following lumbar surgery.MethodsThe review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and was registered with PROSPERO. PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, ICL, CINAHL, and PEDro were searched through July 2019. Articles were screened independently by at least two reviewers for inclusion. Articles included described the practice, utilization, and/or clinical decision making to post surgical intervention with manipulative and/or manual therapies. Data extraction consisted of principal findings, pain and function/disability, patient satisfaction, opioid/medication consumption, and adverse events. Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network critical appraisal checklists were utilized to assess study quality.ResultsLiterature search yielded 1916 articles, 348 duplicates were removed, 109 full-text articles were screened and 50 citations met inclusion criteria. There were 37 case reports/case series, 3 randomized controlled trials, 3 pilot studies, 5 systematic/scoping/narrative reviews, and 2 commentaries. ConclusionThe findings of this review may help inform practitioners who utilize manipulative and/or manual therapies regarding levels of evidence for patients with prior lumbar surgery. Following lumbar surgery, the evidence indicated inpatient neural mobilization does not improve outcomes. There is inconclusive evidence to recommend for or against most manual therapies after most surgical interventions.Trial registrationProspectively registered with PROSPERO (#CRD42020137314). Registered 24 January 2020.
High spatial resolution magnetic mapping using ultra-high sensitivity scanning SQUID microscopy on a speleothem from the Kingdom of Tonga, southern Pacific
Authors: Fukuyo Naoto , Oda Hirokuni , Yokoyama Yusuke , Clark Geoffrey , Yamamoto Yuhji
Published: May 2020

Speleothems can be an ideal archive of paleomagnetism because they retain continuous geomagnetic records in stable conditions and can be used for reliable radiometric dating using U-series and radiocarbon methods. However, their weak magnetic signals hinder the widespread use of this archive in the field of geoscience. While previous studies successfully reconstructed paleomagnetic signatures, including geomagnetic excursions, their time resolutions presented were still not reached to a sufficient level. Recently emerging scanning SQUID microscopy (SSM) in this field can image very weak magnetic fields while maintaining high spatial resolution that could likely overcome this obstacle. In this study, we employed SSM to conduct paleomagnetic measurements on a stalagmite collected at Anahulu cave in Tongatapu Island, the Kingdom of Tonga. The sliced sample to a thickness of ca. 0.2 mm was scan for NRM using SSM showed the influence of viscous remanent magnetization. The average measured magnetic field after 5 mT AF demagnetization is ca. 0.27 nT with a sensor-to-sample distance of ~200 µm. A stronger magnetic field (average: ca. 0.62 nT) was observed above the grayish surface layer, as compared to that of the white inner layer (average: ca. 0.09 nT) associated with the laminated structures of a speleothem at the submillimeter scale with the SSM. The magnetization of the speleothem sample calculated by an inversion of isothermal remanent magnetization (IRM) also suggests that magnetic mineral content in the surface layer is higher than the inner layer. This feature was further investigated by low-temperature magnetometry and was suggested that it contains magnetite, maghemite, and goethite. The first-order reversal curve (FORC) measurements and the decomposition of IRM curves show that this speleothem contains a mixture of magnetic minerals with different coercivities and domain states. The contribution from maghemite and goethite to the total magnetization of the grayish surface layer is much higher than the white inner layer. The speleothem retaining magnetically and visually two distinct layers indicates that the depositional environment was shifted when the surface layer was deposited and was likely changed to the oxidative environment.
Evaluation of Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) active Phytochemicals Against Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)
Authors: Maurya Dharmendra Kumar
Published: May 2020

Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a novel coronavirus emerged from Wuhan, China in December 2019. It has spread to more than 205 countries and become pandemic now. Currently, there are no FDA approved drugs or vaccines available and hence several studies are going on in search of suitable drug that can target viral proteins or host receptor for the prevention and management of COVID-19. The search for plant-based anti-viral agents against the SARS-CoV-2 is promising because several of plants have been shown to possess anti-viral activities against different viruses. Here, we used molecular docking approach to explore the use of Indian Ayurvedic herbs, Yashtimadhu in prevention and management of COVID-19. In the present study we have evaluated the effectiveness of phytochemicals found in Yashtimadhu against Main Protease (Mpro), Spike (S) protein and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of SARS-CoV-2 as well as human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and furin protease. Apart from this, we have also performed in-silico drug-likeness and predicted pharmacokinetics of the selected phytochemicals found in the Yashtimadhu. Our study shows that several phytochemicals found in this plant have potential to bind with important proteins of SARS-CoV-2 which are essential for viral infection and replication. Overall our study provides scientific basis in terms of binding of active ingredients present in Yashtimadhu with SARS-CoV-2 target proteins. Our docking studies reveal that Yashtimadhu may inhibit the viral severity by interfering with viral entry as well as its multiplication in the infected persons. Thus Yashtimadhu may be helpful in the prevention and management of the COVID-19.
Utilization of Pruned Branches from Lawsonia inermis (Henna) in Soda and Soda Anthraquinone Pulping
Authors: Mohieldin Salaheldin Dafalla , Hussein Tarig Abdoalkarem , Fadlle Almojtaba Mobarak , Osman Dafalla , Elzaki Osman Taha , Shomeina Suhair Kamal , Khider Tarig Osman , Omer Safaa Hassan
Published: May 2020

Abstract: this study aimed to evaluate the suitability of pruned branches of Lawsonia inermis (Henna) for soda and soda anthraquinone pulping to add economic value for this small tree (shrub). The investigations were carried out to determine fiber dimensions, morphological indices, chemical constituents, cooking trials were done with and without anthraquinone according to Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI). The short fiber of Henna (0.628 mm) compensated with wide fiber and lumen (83 µm) and (71 µm) respectively. The high lignin 28.8% and good cellulose 47% resulted in total yield ranged between 36.9-40.6%.
Immunosuppression is associated with a lower risk of moderate to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome in COVID-19.
Authors: Monreal Enric , Maza Susana Sainz de la , Gullón Pedro , Natera-Villalba Elena , Chico-García Juan Luis , Beltrán-Corbellini Álvaro , Martínez-Sanz Javier , García-Barragán Nuria , Buisán Javier , Toledano Rafael , Alonso-Canovas Araceli , Pérez-Torre Paula , Matute-Lozano María Consuelo , López-Sendón Jose Luis , García-Ribas Guillermo , Corral Íñigo , Fortún Jesús , Montero-Errasquín Beatriz , Manzano Luis , Máiz-Carro Luis , Costa-Frossard Lucienne , Masjuan Jaime
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging infectious disease that has spread rapidly worldwide. The role of immunosuppression among COVID-19 patients has not been elucidated and management may be challenging.OBJECTIVE: To assess differences in severe outcomes of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 according to immune system state.DESIGN: Retrospective single-center observational study with confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted to Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal from March 18, 2020 to April 04, 2020. The final date of follow-up was April 09, 2020.PARTICIPANTS: Confirmed COVID-19 patients.MAIN MEASURES: The primary endpoint was development of moderate-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Time to moderate-severe ARDS, the need for mechanical or non-invasive ventilation (MV/NIV), death, and a composite of death or MV/NIV were secondary endpoints.KEY RESULTS: Of 138 patients included, 29 (21%) were immunocompromised (IC), with 95 (68.8%) male patients and a median (IQR) age of 68 (54 – 78) years. Among the baseline characteristics, no relevant or significant differences were observed between IC and non-immunocompromised (non-IC) patients. A significantly lower proportion of IC patients (24.1% [95% CI, 11.4 – 44.0%]) compared to non-IC patients (49.5% [95% CI, 40.1 – 59.0%]) developed moderate-severe ARDS, in both unadjusted (OR 0.32 [95% CI, 0.13 – 0.82], p=0.018) and adjusted (aOR 0.16 [95% CI, 0.05 – 0.52], p=0.003) analyses. A positive non-significant trend toward a longer time to moderate or severe ARDS, a lower need for MV/NIV, and a lower risk of death or MV/NIV were detected in IC. A trend toward a shorter- hospitalization in IC was observed.CONCLUSIONS: In our cohort of COVID-19 patients, immunosuppression was associated with a lower risk of moderate-severe ARDS. This suggests a potential protective effect from a hypothesized host hyper-inflammatory response and warrants reconsideration of drug discontinuation in IC patients.
Risk Factors for the Development of BK Virus Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients in Guilan Province during 2007-2015
Authors: Khosravi Masoud , Dadras Mahlagha , Monfared Ali , Granmaieh Siamak , Rashti Mohammad Shenagari , Soltanipour Soheil
Published: May 2020

Purpose: Polyomavirus nephropathy has been recognized as an important cause of silent loss of kidney transplant function in 3-5% of kidney transplant recipients. We evaluate the risk factors associated with BK virus infection in our kidney transplant recipients.Materials and Methods: We collected clinical information, urinary Decoy cell, and blood PCR tests for polyomavirus infection in our 223 kidney transplant recipients undergoing surgery at Razi hospital at Guilan University of Medical Sciences between 2007 and 2015. In case of high virus count or if plasma creatinine was elevated, a kidney biopsy would be performed. SPSS version 18 were used for analysis of data.Results: Among 223 patients, 116 (52%) were male, 107 females (48%). Mean age of participants were 49.6 years. Of 223 kidney transplant patients enrolled in this study, 41 (18.3%) had viral genome in their urine, and of these 41 patients, 15 persons (6.7%) had viral genome in their blood. Only 3 patients out of 10, have had BK Virus nephropathy in their kidney biopsy. Among risk factors, we found that post-transplant duration, and use of anti-thymocyte globulin, were most significant risk factors for finding Decoy cells in urine of patients (p<0.01).Conclusions: Post-transplant time, specially the first 6 months because of strong immunosuppression, and thereafter, use of anti-thymocyte globulin (for prophylaxis or treatment of rejection) were recognized as most important risk factors for reactivation of polyomavirus infection in our patients. We concluded that kidney transplant recipients should be monitored in episodically after transplant.