bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparative study between local bone graft with or without cages in unilateral posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF): a retrospective study
Authors: He Tao Jiang , Feng Jun-fei , Chen Qian , Yang Yang , Zhou Qing-song , Liu Kai-xin
Published: September 2020

Objective

A retrospective study of the clinical and radiological results between local bone graft with a cage and without cage in patients treated with unilateral fixation and posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery.
Methods

A total of 52 patients who underwent PLIF in our institution were evaluated from January 2015 to January 2018. 30 of these patients received PLIF with local bone graft combined with using one cage, and 22 patients received PLIF with local bone graft without using cage. The clinical data and perioperative complications of the two groups were recorded. X-ray were taken before, after operation and at the end of follow-up to calculate the height of intervertebral disc and the fusion rate. SUK's criteria were used to evaluate the quality of spinal fusion at the follow-up time. The results between the cage and non- cage group were compared.
Results

There was no statistical difference in baseline data between the two groups, and The mean follow-up time was 18.43 months in cage group and 17.50 months in non- cage group (P = 0.553). In additions, the significant difference was not found in the comparison of perioperative evaluation data between the two groups, such as operation time (P = 0.299), blood loss (P = 0.342) and incidence of complications (P = 1.000). Furthermore, the significant difference of VAS score cannot be found in preoperation (Pleg=0.731, Plowback=0.786), postoperation (Pleg=0.534, Plowback=0.725) and the final follow-up (Pleg=0.654, Plowback=0.362) between the two groups. The same results were also obtained in the comparison of ODI index (Ppre=0.682, Pfinal=0.712) and intervertebral height (Ppost=0.363, Pfinal=0.094). The final fusion rates were 96.7% (cage group) and 86.4% (non- cage group) respectively, and there was no statistical difference (P = 0.553).
Conclusion

Local bone graft has the same advantages as a cage in unilateral PLIF. Comparing with local bone graft using cage, we believe that the local bone graft is a more ideal way in unilateral PLIF, and decrease operation cost.
Validation of a method evaluating T cell metabolic potential in compliance with ICH Q2 (R1)
Authors: Letondal Patricia , Marton Chrystel , Godet Yann , Galaine Jeanne
Published: September 2020

Background
Metabolic cell features are able to give reliable information on cell functional state. Thus, metabolic potential assessment of T cells in malignancy setting represents a promising area, especially in adoptive cell therapy procedures. Easy to set up and convenient Seahorse technology have recently been proposed by Agilent Technologies and it could be used to monitor T cells metabolic potential. However, this method demonstrates an inter-assay variability and lacks practices standardization.
Results
We aimed to overcome these shortcomings thanks to a lymphoblastic derived JURKAT cell line seeding in each experiment to standardize the Seahorse process. We used an adapted XF Cell MitoStress Kit protocol, consisting in the evaluation of basal, stressed and maximal glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation related parameters, through sequential addition of oligomycin and FCCP to a glucose containing medium. Data were acquired and analyzed through Agilent Seahorse XFe96 analyzer. Indeed, we validated this method in the light of ICH Q2 (R1) guidelines. We were able to confirm the specificity and accuracy of the method. We also demonstrated the precision, linearity and range of the method in our experimental conditions.
Conclusion
The validation of the method consisting in a JURKAT cell line experimental incorporation as internal control contributes to improve the Seahorse technology’s robustness. These results lay the groundwork for the implementation of this technology to optimize T cell based cellular therapy products production process and monitoring.
Analysis of Circulating Protein Aggregates Reveals Pathological Hallmarks of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Adiutori Rocco , Puentes Fabiola , Bremang Michael , Lombardi Vittoria , Zubiri Irene , Leoni Emanuela , Aarum Johan , Sheer Denise , McArthur Simon , Pike Ian , Malaspina Andrea
Published: September 2020

Background: plasma proteins composition reflects the inflammatory and metabolic state of an organism and can be predictive of system-level and organ-specific pathologies. Circulating protein aggregates (CPA) are enriched with heavy chain neurofilaments (NfH), axonal proteins involved in brain protein aggregates (BPA) formation and recently identified as biomarkers of the fatal neuromuscular disorder amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: here we use mass spectrometry and brain-enhanced TMTcalibrator™-based proteomics to evaluate the composition and the brain-derived protein component of CPA extracted from ALS and healthy controls (HC) plasma samples using high-performance ultracentrifugation. We also test CPA and BPA proteins aggregation propensity and the resistance to proteases digestion by trypsin, chymotrypsin, calpain and enterokinase of NFH within aggregates. Finally, we study CPA biological effects on neuronal and endothelial cell lines. Results: electron microscopy confirms the presence in CPA of electron-dense macromolecular particles appearing as either large globular or as small filamentous formations. CPA from ALS are enriched with proteasome system proteins while HC CPA show a prominent expression of proteins involved in metabolism. CPA enterokinase digestion in ALS generates 171 and 31 KDa NfH fragments not seen in HC samples. Compared to the whole human proteome, proteins within CPA and BPA show distinct chemical features of aggregation propensity, which appear dependent on the tissue or fluid of origin and not on the healthy or pathological source of plasma. The use of a TMTcalibrator™ proteomics workflow reveals 4973 brain-derived low-abundance proteins in CPA, including products of translation of 24 ALS risk genes. 285 (5.7%) are regulated in ALS (p < 0.05) and belong to biochemical pathways previously linked to ALS pathogenesis and aggregates formation. CPA from both ALS and HC have a higher effect on hCMEC/D3 endothelial and PC12 neuronal cells viability than immunoglobulins extracted from the same plasma samples. Compared to HC, CPA from ALS plasma samples exert a higher toxic effect on both cell lines at lower concentrations.Conclusions: this study demonstrates that CPA are significantly enriched with brain proteins which are representative of ALS pathology and a potential source of biomarkers and therapeutic targets for this incurable disorder.
Mechanisms and Candidate Genes for Seed and Fruit Set in Grapevine
Authors: Costantini Laura , Moreno-Sanz Paula , Nwafor Chinedu Charles , Lorenzi Silvia , Marrano Annarita , Cristofolini Fabiana , Gottardini Elena , Raimondi Stefano , Ruffa Paola , Gribaudo Ivana , Schneider Anna , Grando Maria Stella
Published: September 2020

Background: Grapevine reproductive development has direct implications on yield. It also impacts on berry and wine quality by affecting traits like cluster compactness, bunch and berry size, berry skin to pulp ratio or seedlessness. Seasonal fluctuations in yield, fruit composition and wine attributes, which are largely driven by climatic factors, are major challenges for worldwide table grape and wine industry. Accordingly, a better understanding of reproductive processes such as gamete development, fertilization, seed and fruit set is of paramount relevance for managing yield and quality. With the aim of providing new insights into this field, we searched for clones with contrasting seed content in two germplasm collections. Results: We identified eight variant pairs that seemingly differ only in seed-related characteristics while showing identical genotype when tested with the GrapeReSeq_Illumina_20K_SNP_chip and several microsatellites. We performed multi-year observations on fruit and seed set deriving from different pollination treatments, with special emphasis on the pair composed by Sangiovese and its seedless variant locally named Corinto Nero. The pollen of Corinto Nero failed to germinate in vitro and gave poor berry set when used to pollinate other varieties. Most berries from both open- and cross-pollinated Corinto Nero inflorescences did not contain seeds. The genetic analysis of seedlings derived from occasional Corinto Nero normal seeds revealed that the few Corinto Nero functional gametes are mostly unreduced. A number of genes potentially involved in sporogenesis and gametogenesis showed contrasting expression between Corinto Nero and Sangiovese and five missense single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified from transcriptomic data. The above findings suggest that the seedless phenotype of Corinto Nero is driven by pollen and/or embryo sac defects, and both events likely arise from meiotic anomalies. Finally, three genotypes, including Sangiovese and Corinto Nero, were unexpectedly found to develop fruits without pollen contribution and occasionally showed normal-like seeds. Conclusions: Our collective results suggest that parthenocarpy and stenospermocarpy are not restricted to Black Corinth (alias Korinthiaki) and Sultanina-derived cultivars. The single nucleotide polymorphisms identified between Sangiovese and its parthenocarpic variant Corinto Nero are suitable for testing as traceability markers for propagated material and as functional candidates for the seedless phenotype.
The Protective Role of Intracellular Glutathione in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae During Lignocellulosic Ethanol Fermentation 
Authors: Raghavendran Vijayendran , Marx Christian , Olsson Lisbeth , Bettiga Maurizio
Published: September 2020

To enhance the competitiveness of industrial lignocellulose ethanol production, robust enzymes and cell factories are vital. Lignocellulose derived streams contain a cocktail of inhibitors that drain the cell of its redox power and ATP, leading to a decrease in overall ethanol productivity. Many studies have attempted to address this issue, and we have shown that increasing the glutathione (GSH) content in yeasts confers tolerance towards lignocellulose inhibitors, subsequently increasing the ethanol titres. However, GSH levels in yeast are limited by feedback inhibition of GSH biosynthesis. Multidomain and dual functional enzymes exist in several bacterial genera and they catalyse the GSH biosynthesis in a single step without the feedback inhibition. To test if even higher intracellular glutathione levels could be achieved and if this might lead to increased tolerance, we overexpressed the genes from two bacterial genera and assessed the recombinants in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) with steam pretreated spruce hydrolysate containing 10% solids. Although overexpressing the heterologous genes led to a six-fold increase in maximum glutathione content (18 µmol·gdrycellmass-1) compared to the control strain, this only led to a three-fold increase in final ethanol titres (8.5 g·L-1). As our work does not conclusively indicate the cause-effect of increased GSH levels towards ethanol titres, we cautiously conclude that there is a limit to cellular fitness that could be accomplished via increased levels of glutathione.
Combined Mode of Courses on Dental Virtual Clerkship During COVID-19 Pandemic for Final-year Undergraduates in Wuhan
Authors: Li Shue , Zhao Jiajia , Wu Yuelin , Yu Ran , Zhou Xin , Huang Xiaofei , Yu Shaoling , Chen Lili
Published: September 2020

BackgroundOnline teaching is being widely adopted to achieve medical teaching objectives during the COVID-19 pandemic. To explore the dental virtual clerkship so as to continue the education of final-year dental undergraduate interns, combined mode of courses including small private online course, problem-based learning, online dental practice broadcasting and dental practice based on relatives’ or friends’ oral health management were applied for clerkship education for final-year interns.MethodsCombined courses of virtual clerkship was conducted from March to May, 2020 for final-year interns, while online preclerkship curriculum teaching was conducted for non-final-year students. Using the online students’ engagement scale (OSE), Biggs’ revised two-factor version of the study process questionnaire (R-SPQ-2F), student engagement and study process were evaluated for both. Teaching efficacy were evaluated via teachers' sense of efficacy scale (TSES) as well. ResultsStudents’ engagement was higher in final-year students, especially the emotion and participation categories (P<0.01). In the emotion category, 80.95% identified with putting forth effort on lecture and applying knowledge to life. Study approaches on deep motive and strategy were dominated in final-year interns (P<0.01). Teacher’ sense of efficacy also reflected the positive influence on student virtual clerkship. There was no significant difference among three categories including the sense of student engagement, instructional strategies and classroom management (P>0.05).ConclusionThis combined mode of courses on dental virtual clerkship could be potentially applied during the pandemic or be supplementary for traditional by-chair clerkship after the pandemic.
PrEP in Primary Care; Health Care Worker Adaptations to PrEP Delivery in Eswatini
Authors: Barnighausen Kate , Dalglish Sarah , Matse Sindy , Hughey Allison , Hettema Anita , Kahn Kathleen , Barnighausen Till , Geldsetzer Pascal , McMahon Shannon
Published: September 2020

BackgroundImplementation evidence for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the general population in primary-care clinics in Southern Africa is limited. Perspective from those providing PrEP in ‘real world’ settings is needed to better inform future programming, policy, and scale up. MethodsFrom September 2017 to January 2019 we conducted 54 semi-structured in-depth interviews with purposively selected healthcare workers (HCWs) from six public sector, nurse-led, primary-care clinics in Eswatini. Data from observational notes, daily debriefing sessions and interview transcripts were analyzed using Nvivo 12 following the tenets of Grounded Theory. We present our results within six domains of a modified Consolidated Framework for Implementation (CFIR). ResultsHCWs said that they adapted implementation guidelines in order to inform more people of PrEP. HCWs said that clinic and community based PrEP education and promotion was essential for demand creation, uptake and continued PrEP use. Clinic modifications included conducting PrEP risk assessments during existing TB screening services, and targeting PrEP counselling for pregnant women and clients with sexually transmitted infections. HCWs described streamlining the PrEP initiation process by fast-tracking at-risk clients for initiation and pill collection. HCW said they emphasised PrEP as being for ‘everyone’ to avoid stigma. ConclusionsIntegration of PrEP delivery into existing screening and treatment services may help reach those most vulnerable to HIV infection, avoid time-consuming referrals, and prevent loss of clients between different components of the care continuum. PrEP education and promotion should be both clinic and community based to ensure potential clients have enough information before reaching the clinic, prevent PrEP-associated stigma and assist in family and partner understanding of PrEP use. HCWs providing PrEP in public-sector clinics have first-hand knowledge of implementation in ‘real world’ settings in a field where policy and program implementation is largely undefined. Integrating their feedback into future programming and policy may support effective PrEP delivery in Eswatini and other high prevalence settings in Southern Africa.
Prognostic value and underlying mechanism of autophagy-related genes in bladder cancer
Authors: Zhang Keying , Wang Jingwei , Xu Chao , Zhang Jingliang , Liu Shaojie , Zhou Xiang , Zhao Xiaolong , Peng Shiyuan , Jiang Yao , Yang Fa , Qin Jun , Meng Ping , Shi Changhong , Zhang Rui , Yang An-Gang , Han Donghui , Wen Weihong , Qin Weijun
Published: September 2020

Background
Bladder cancer (BLCA) is the most common malignancy whose early diagnosis can ensure better prognosis. However, the predictive accuracy of commonly used predictors, including patients’ general condition, histological grade and pathological stage, is insufficient to identify the patients who need invasive treatment. Autophagy is regarded as a vital factor in maintaining mitochondrial function and energy homeostasis in cancer cells. Whether autophagy-related genes (ARGs) can predict the prognosis of BLCA patients deserves to be investigated.
Methods
Based on BLCA data retrieved from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and ARGs list obtained from the Human Autophagy Database (HADb) website, we identified prognosis-related differentially expressed ARGs (PDEARGs) through Wilcox text and constructed a PDEARGs-based prognostic model through multivariate Cox regression analysis. The predictive accuracy, independent forecasting capability, and the correlation between present model and clinical variables or tumor microenvironment (TME) were evaluated through R software. Enrichment analysis of PDEARGs was performed to explore the underlying mechanism, and a systematic prognostic signature with nomogram was constructed by integrating clinical variables and aforementioned PDEARGs-based model.
Results
We identified several PDEARGs and constructed a PDEARGs-based prognostic model, which could precisely predict the prognosis of BLCA patients. Then, we found that the risk score generated by PDEARGs-based model could effectively reflect deteriorated clinical variables and tumor-promoting microenvironment. Additionally, several immune-related gene ontology (GO) terms were significantly enriched by PDEARGs, which might provide insights for present model and propose potential therapeutic targets for BLCA patients. Finally, a systematic prognostic signature with promoted clinical utility and predictive accuracy was constructed to assist clinician decision.
Conclusion
PDEARGs are valuable prognostic predictor and potential therapeutic targets for BLCA patients.
Characterization and analysis of some chilling-response WRKY transcription factors in tomato
Authors: Wang Yixuan , Zhuang Kunyang , Meng Qingwei , Meng Chen
Published: September 2020

WRKY transcription factors play various important roles in biotic and abiotic stress. In present study, a total of 81 WRKYs in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) was identified and their gene structure, phylogeny and sub-location were analyzed. Here, we further analyzed their expression and potential roles under chilling stress. Nevertheless, the predicted chloroplast-located WRKYs are failed to be detected in the chloroplast. Then, 27 SlWRKYs with high chilling-induced mRNA levels (more than 3 fold to the control) are selected from these WRKYs. Promoter analysis showed that some cold stress-related cis-acting elements (CBFs binding site) existed in many promoter regions of these chilling response WRKYs (WRKY2, WRKY50, WRKY59 etc.), implying that these WRKY transcription factors may participate in CBFs mediated pathway under chilling stress. The interaction proteins of WRKYs are essential to affect the DNA binding and transcription regulatory activities of WRKYs, thus controlling its downstream genes expression. Therefore, we predicted and analyzed the protein-protein interactions of those chilling related WRKY transcription factors and then speculated the complex regulatory and functional network of WRKY transcription factors under chilling stress. A better understanding of SlWRKYs would be helpful for providing a theoretical basis for further illustrating the regulatory mechanism of SlWRKYs under chilling stress.
Distribution and Prevalence of Plasmodium Knowlesi Among Macaques In Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Authors: Zamzuri Mohd 'Ammar Ihsan Ahmad , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat , Hod Rozita
Published: September 2020

Background

Plasmodium knowlesi infection has significant morbidity and mortality impact in Malaysia. This zoonotic malaria parasite is naturally transmissible from macaque to humans in the presence of a competent vector. Human encroachment towards the habitat of macaque has further increased the risk. Stratifying the potential risk of transmission based on the burden of parasite among macaque in a particular area can be the first step for public health intervention. Thus, the study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Plasmodium knowlesi parasite among macaque in Negeri Sembilan and determine its associated factors.
METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study using a non-probabilistic sampling technique. A total of 212 blood samples from macaques in Negeri Sembilan were collected from seven districts. The Plasmodium spp. infecting the macaques were identified using Real-Time PCR assays on DNA extracted from these blood samples. Statistical tests were done to examine the factors associated with Plasmodium knowlesi infection in the macaque population.
RESULT

The overall prevalence of Plasmodium knowlesi among macaque in Negeri Sembilan state was 36.3%. Both long-tailed macaque and short-tailed macaque harboured the parasite within them. Co-infection with several malaria parasites were seen in 35.5% of Plasmodium spp positive results. The only significant associated factors in the prevalence of Plasmodium knowlesi were the type of locality (rural vs. urban) and the districts where the macaques were trapped.
CONCLUSION

The prevalence of Plasmodium knowlesi infection among macaques varied between districts in Negeri Sembilan. The presence of zoonotic malaria parasites among the population of macaque that live in close proximity with the community possesses a potential risk of transmission. Therefore, robust public health advocacy targeting high-risk areas is deemed necessary.
Clinical Characteristics, Risk Factors and Predictive Value of COVID-19 Pneumonia: A Retrospective Study of 173 Patients in Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhang Yang , Xue Jun , Yan Mi , Chen Jing , Liu Hai , Wang Shao-Bo , Luo Jian-Xing , Yang Fang , Tang Jian-Yuan , Hu Xiao-Yu
Published: September 2020

Background: COVID-19 is a globally emerging infectious disease. As the global epidemic continues to spread, the risk of COVID-19 transmission and diffusion in the world will also remain. Currently, several studies describing its clinical characteristics have focused on the initial outbreak, but rarely to the later stage. Here we described clinical characteristics, risk factors for disease severity and in-hospital outcome in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia from Wuhan. Methods: Patients with COVID-19 pneumonia admitted to Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology from February 13 to March 8, 2020, were retrospectively enrolled. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for disease severity and in-hospital outcome and establish predictive models. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the predictive value of above models.Results: 106 (61.3%) of the patients were female. The mean age of study populations was 62.0 years, of whom 73 (42.2%) had underlying comorbidities mainly including hypertension (24.9%). The most common symptoms on admission were fever (67.6%) and cough (60.1%), digestive symptoms (22.0%) was also very common. Older age (OR: 3.420; 95%Cl: 1.415-8.266; P=0.006), diarrhea (OR: 0.143; 95%Cl: 0.033-0.611; P=0.009) and lymphopenia (OR: 4.769; 95%Cl: 2.019-11.266; P=0.000) were associated with severe illness on admission; the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of predictive model were 0.860 (95%CI: 0.802-0.918; P=0.000). Older age (OR: 0.309; 95%Cl: 0.142-0.674; P=0.003), leucopenia (OR: 0.165; 95%Cl: 0.034-0.793; P=0.025), increased lactic dehydrogenase (OR: 0.257; 95%Cl: 0.100-0.659; P=0.005) and interleukins-6 levels (OR: 0.294; 95%Cl: 0.099-0.872; P=0.027) were associated with poor in-hospital outcome; AUC of predictive model were 0.752 (95%CI: 0.681-0.824; P=0.000).Conclusion: Older patients with diarrhea and lymphopenia need early identification and timely intervention to prevent the progression to severe COVID-19 pneumonia. However, older patients with leucopenia, increased lactic dehydrogenase and interleukins-6 levels are at a high risk for poor in-hospital outcome.Trial registration: ChiCTR2000029549
Modelling Bluetongue Risk in Kazakhstan
Authors: Abdrakmanov Sarsenbay , Kanatzhan Beisembayev , Sultanov Akmetzhan , Mukhanbetkaliyev Yersyn , Kadyrov Ablaikhan , Ussenbayev Altay , Zhakenova Аigerim , Torgerson Paul
Published: September 2020

Background: Bluetongue is a serious disease of ruminants transmitted by biting midges (Culicoides spp). Serological evidence from livestock and the presence of at least one vector competent spp of Culicoides suggests that transmission of bluetongue is possible and may have occurred in Kazakhstan. Methods: We estimated the relative risk of transmission using a mathematical model of the reproduction number R0 for bluetongue. This model depends on livestock density and climatic factors which affect vector density. Data on climate and livestock numbers from the 2778 local communities were used. This together with previously published model parameters was used to estimate R0 for each month of the year, which was rescaled to give a relative risk of transmission. These relative risks were mapped using kernal density estimates using R statistical software and mapping tools.Results: The results suggest that transmission of bluetongue in Kazakhstan is not possible in the winter from November to March. Assuming there are vector competent species of Culicoides endemic in Kazakhstan, then low levels of risk first appear in the south of Kazakhstan in April before spreading north and intensifying reaching maximum levels in northern Kazakhstan in August. The risk decline in September with only a low risk of transmission in October.Conclusion: These results should aid in surveillance efforts for the detection and control of bluetongue in Kazakhstan by indicating where and when outbreaks of bluetongue are most likely to occur.
Exposure to Toxic Metals (As, Cd, Hg, Pb) in Two Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) Areas in Zimbabwe
Authors: Rakete Stefan , Moonga Given , Wahl Anna-Maria , Mambrey Viola , Shoko Dennis , Moyo Dingani , Muteti-Fana Shamiso , Tobollik Myriam , Steckling-Muschack Nadine , Böse-O'Reilly Stephan
Published: September 2020

Background: People living and working in ASGM areas are exposed to toxic metals such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb). Whereas Hg is purposely used to extract the gold from the ore, the other toxic metals can be liberated from the ore during the mining process. These metals can contaminate drinking water and food and are thus, a source of exposure for people living in these mining areas. However, there is limited to no data about the exposure to toxic metals of people living in ASGM areas. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to conduct biomonitoring of people identifying themselves as artisanal gold miners. Methods: Blood and urine were collected from 207 people living and working in two ASGM areas in Zimbabwe. Hg in whole blood and urine was analyzed by direct mercury analysis, Pb in blood as well as As and Cd in urine were analyzed by GF-AAS. The results were evaluated by descriptive analysis and correlated with the location, age, fish consumption, years living and working in the area. Results: Median As level in urine was 10.0 µg/l (range from below limit of detection to 460 µg/l). Median Cd level in urine was 0.3 µg/l (range from below limit of detection to 11.4 µg/l). Median Hg levels in blood / urine were 2.7 / 5.2 µg/l (range from 0.2 to 167 µg/l / 0.1 to 612 µg/l). Median Pb level in blood was 19.9 µg/l (range from 6.6 to 276 µg/l). As expected, the Hg levels were frequently above international reference values (e. g. NHANES, blood: 34%, urine: 69%). For Pb and Cd, a considerable number of participants (32% and 22% respectively) were above the reference values (NHANES / National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) and for As 33% of the participants were above the reference value (UBA/ German Environment Agency). Conclusions: Hg levels were, as expected in ASGM areas, mainly above reference and threshold values. A high proportion of As, Cd and Pb levels were also above reference levels. Therefore, the exposure to toxic metals in the two ASGM areas in Zimbabwe is relevant for public health.
Simvastatin Impairs Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity and Cognitive Function in Mice
Authors: Guo Yujun , Zou Guichang , Jin Jin , Yao Lei , Qi Keke , Pan Yang , Xiong Wei
Published: September 2020

Lipophilic statins which are blood brain barrier (BBB) permeable are speculated to affect the cholesterol synthesis and neural functions in the central nervous system. However, whether these statins can affect cholesterol levels and synaptic plasticity in hippocampus and the in vivo consequence remain unclear. Here, we report that long-term subcutaneous treatments of simvastatin significantly impair mouse hippocampal synaptic plasticity, reflected by the attenuated long-term potentiation of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials. The simvastatin administration causes a deficiency in recognition and spatial memory but fails to affect motor ability and anxiety behaviors in the mice. Mass spectrometry imaging indicates a significant decrease in cholesterol intensity in hippocampus of the mice receiving chronic simvastatin treatments. Such effects of simvastatin are transient because drug discontinuation can restore the hippocampal cholesterol level and synaptic plasticity and the memory function. These findings may provide further clues to elucidate the mechanisms of neurological side effects, especially the brain cognitive function impairment, caused by long-term usage of BBB-permeable statins.
Interaction of Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) Candidate Longevity Gene and Particulate Matter (PM2.5) on All-cause Mortality: a Longitudinal Cohort Study in China
Authors: Yao Yao , Liu Linxin , Guo Guang , Zeng Yi , Ji John S.
Published: September 2020

BackgroundThe SIRT1 gene was associated with the lifespan in several organisms through inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. Long-term air particulate matter (PM) is detrimental to health through the same pathways. MethodsWe used the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) to investigate whether there is a gene-environment (G×E) interaction of SIRT1 and air pollution on mortality in an older cohort in China. Among 7,083 participants with a mean age of 81.1 years, we genotyped the SIRT1 alleles for each participant and assessed PM2.5 concentration using 3-year average concentrations around each participant's residence. We used Cox-proportional hazards models to estimate the independent and joint effects of SIRT1 polymorphisms and PM2.5 exposure on all-cause mortality, adjusting for a set of confounders. ResultsThere were 2,843 deaths over 42,852 person-years. The mortality hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for each 10 μg/m³ increase in PM2·5 was 1.08 (1.05-1.11); for SIRT1_391 was 0.77 (0.61, 0.98) in the recessive model after adjustment. In stratified analyses, participants carrying two SIRT1_391 minor alleles had a significantly higher HR for each 10 μg/m³ increase in PM2.5 than those carrying one or none minor allele (1.336 [1.079-1.653] vs. 1.078 [1.049-1.107]; p for interaction = 0.012). Moreover, the interaction of SIRT1 and air pollution on mortality is significant among women but not among men. We did not see significant relationships for SIRT1_366, SIRT1_773, and SIRT1_720. ConclusionWe found a gene-environment interaction of SIRT1 and air pollution on mortality, possibly through the inflammation modulating mechanism of SIRT1 polymorphisms.
Analysis of Rear-End Collision Accident of Urban Traffic Based on Safety Pre-Warning Algorithm
Authors: Wang Sizhuo , Li Wei , Kong Chunyu
Published: September 2020

With the increase of per capita car ownership, traffic accidents frequently occur, in which rear-end collision accounts for 30% to 40% of the total accidents; thus, rear-end collision has become the primary factor of traffic environment deterioration. Therefore, how to improve road traffic safety and reduce the probability of rear-end collision has become a major social concern. In this study, based on the safety pre-warning algorithm, a vehicle collision model was built, and a vehicle anti-collision warning system was established. The calculation was performed based on the sample data to obtain the prediction value of vehicle collision time under different driving speeds, so as to provide drivers with effective response time and reduce the casualties and property losses caused by a vehicle collision. The experimental results showed that the accuracy rate of the pre-warning reached 80% when the speed was regarded as a variable, and the simulation results showed that the early pre-warning or delayed pre-warning rate was very low, and the timeliness rate reached 89%, which enables drivers to react quickly in the appropriate time and effectively reduces the risk of vehicle rear-end collision.
Phosphate Sequestration From Aqueous Solutions Using A Zeolite in The Zinc Form.
Authors: Loayza Lenin , Guaya Diana
Published: September 2020

This work evaluated the ability of a modified zeolite to adsorb phosphates in aqueous solution. The zeolite used for this study was a modified faujasite impregnated with zinc chloride (Z-Zn) on its surface. The experiments were carried out in different stages. Adsorption was performed at different pH of the solution and the zeolitized material was found to be favorable for phosphate adsorption. The adsorption kinetics occurred after 240 minutes and reach the equilbrium, determining chemisorption reactions with a fit of the particular diffusion model ( Dp ) and pseudo second order, the Langmuir model was best adjusted through the isotherms. The adsorption and desorption process occurs best in the presence of HCl, the formation of residual phosphorous in the fractionation stage evidenced that the highest percentage was bound to metals such as Fe and Al.
Comparison of Three PCR-Based Methods to Detect Loa loa and Mansonella perstans in Long-Term Frozen Storage Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Ta-Tang Thuy-Huong , Febrer-Sendra Begoña , Berzosa Pedro , Rubio José Miguel , Romay-Barja María , Ncogo Policarpo , Agudo Diego , Herrador Zaida , Fernández-Soto Pedro , Muro Antonio , Benito Agustín
Published: September 2020

Background: Loa loa and Mansonella perstans are two filarial species very common in Africa, with overlapping geographic distribution in some areas. Microscopy is the traditional diagnostic method for human loiasis and mansonellosis, but is a time-consuming, labor intensive and tedious. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods have emerged as an alternative approach for identification of filarial parasites. Dried blood spot (DBS) has been reported as a convenient way to keep DNA for epidemiological investigations and diagnosis of infectious diseases, and does not require venipuncture. The finding of a highly sensitive DNA extraction method for filarial nematodes is also required for a good molecular performance. The aim of this study was to compare three different molecular methods to diagnose human loiasis and mansonellosis using DBS as a medium of sample collection and storage. The saponin/Chelex method for extracting filarial DNA was also applied. Methods: A total of 100 clinical samples were randomly selected for this study. Microscopy was used as the reference method for diagnosing and calculating the microfilaraemia. Filarial DNA was extracted using saponin/Chelex method from DBS. DNA isolated was assayed by three different molecular methods: qPCR, Filaria-Nested PCR, and cytochrome oxidase I PCR. All PCR-products were subsequently purified and sequenced. Statistical values for each molecular test were computed and compared.Results: Overall, 64 samples were identified as negative by all the tests and 36 samples were positive by at least one of the methods tested. Microscopy detected 27 positive samples, meanwhile qPCR, Filaria-Nested PCR and COI PCR detected 30, 31 and 33 positive samples, respectively. The best overall results were obtained with COI PCR protocol (sensitivity 92.6%; specificity 89.0%; kappa index 76.3%). Conclusions: Despite the good statistical values obtained for COI PCR, this method needs the sequencing of the fragment obtained to identify the filarial species; thus the optimal technique to diagnose filarial infection was qPCR, it was very similar in terms of sensitivity and specificity compared to microscopy and for its capacity to detect a wide range of human filariae. It is an appropriate method for filarial diagnosis in non-endemic settings.
Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis of Trypanosoma brucei in Tsetse Fly Vector
Authors: Mwangi Kennedy W. , Macharia Rosaline W. , Bargul Joel L.
Published: September 2020

BackgroundTrypanosoma brucei species are motile protozoan parasites that are cyclically transmitted by tsetse fly (genus Glossina) causing human sleeping sickness and nagana in livestock in sub-Saharan Africa. African trypanosomes display digenetic life cycle stages in the tsetse fly vector and in their mammalian host. Experimental work on insect-stage trypanosomes is challenging due to the difficulty in setting up successful in vitro cultures. Therefore, there is limited knowledge on the trypanosome biology during its development in the tsetse fly. Consequently, this limits the development of new strategies for blocking parasite transmission in the tsetse fly. MethodsIn this study, RNA-Seq data of insect-stage trypanosomes were used to construct a T. brucei gene co-expression network using weighted gene co-expression analysis (WGCNA) method. The study identified significant enriched modules for genes that play key roles during the parasite’s development in tsetse fly. Further, potential 3’ untranslated region (UTR) regulatory elements for genes that clustered in the same module were identified using Finding Informative Regulatory Elements (FIRE) tool.ResultsA fraction of gene modules (12 out of 27 modules) in the constructed network were found to be enriched in functional roles associated with cell division, protein biosynthesis, mitochondrion, and cell surface. Additionally, 12 hub genes encoding proteins such as RNA-binding protein 6 (RBP6), Arginine kinase 1 (AK1), brucei alanine rich protein (BARP), among others, were identified for the 12 significantly enriched gene modules. In addition, the potential regulatory elements located in the 3’ untranslated regions of genes within the same module were predicted. ConclusionsThe constructed gene co-expression network provides a useful resource for network-based data mining to identify candidate genes for functional studies. This will enhance understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie important biological processes during parasite’s development in tsetse fly. Ultimately, these findings will be key in the identification of potential molecular targets for disease control.
The impact of 100 days of Covid-19 lock-down on the emotional health of school children in Chennai, India
Authors: John Cheri Mathews , Mathew Deepa Elizabeth , John Natasha Susan , Johnson Joe , George Sanju
Published: September 2020

Introduction: Public health measures taken to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic can potentially impact the mental health of children.Aims: To assess the prevalence and risk factors of childhood depression during the Covid-19 lock-down.Methods: After 100 days of lock-down, a survey questionnaire was sent by WhatsApp to parents of school-aged children (5-16 years) in Chennai. The Short Mood and Feelings questionnaire was employed as an objective screening tool to assess depression, with a score of 12 used as the cut-off.Results: There were 874 responses. The incidence of childhood depression was 13.7%. Boys were less likely to be depressed than girls. Eleven- to 16-year-olds were more likely to be depressed than 5- to 10-year-old children. Children who had more than 4 hours online education had a higher likelihood of depression. Children who used a cell phone for online classes had a higher likelihood of depression compared to other devices, such as tabs or laptops. Children who slept less than 8 hours a day had a higher likelihood of depression. Children who either did not sleep in the afternoon or slept less than 1 hour had a lower likelihood of depression. Children who were interacting with family over 1 hour per day had a lower likelihood of depression.Conclusions: Overzealous online education, lack of adequate sleep and failure to spend quality time with the family can negatively impact the mental health of children. The impact of Covid-19 on the emotional health of children should be addressed by public policy makers and health care professionals.
Pan(dem)ic Reactions in Turkish Stock Market: Evidence from share repurchases
Authors: Pirgaip Burak
Published: September 2020

Share repurchases have been widely used in global markets for years for various purposes such as to pay out cash, to stabilize stock prices, and so on. However, their use has recently been challenged due to the economic and financial uncertainty imposed by the COVID-19 outbreak. Not only governments have put bans or restrictions on the repurchasing transactions but also some major companies themselves have suspended their buyback programmes to preserve cash. On the other hand, repurchase activity has manifested itself in Turkish capital markets somewhat unexpectedly under uncertain market conditions. This study is one of the first attempts to explore the impact of share repurchase transactions on stock returns in an emerging market severely hit by COVID-19. Event study analyses reveal that market reaction to repurchase activity in the aftermath of the pandemic declaration of March 11, 2020 was significantly positive. Moreover, short-term stock performance of repurchasing firms was far greater than that of their non-repurchasing peers. These results have important policy implications in terms of corporate payout decisions which have recently been challenged by the new coronavirus.
Physiological Responses of Turnip (Brassica rapa L. subsp. rapa) Seedlings to Salt Stress
Authors: Jia Kai , Yan Cunyao , Yan Huizhuan , Gao Jie
Published: September 2020

Turnip (Brassica rapa L. subsp. rapa) is a type of root vegetable belonging to the Brassica subspecies of Cruciferae. Salt stress is one of the main abiotic stresses that causes water deficit, ion toxicity, and metabolic imbalance in plants, seriously limiting plant growth and crop yield. Two commercial turnip cultivars, Wenzhoupancai and Qiamagu, were used to evaluate the seed germination and physiological responses of turnip seedlings to salt stress. NaCl was used to simulate salt stress. Parameters of seed germination, seedling growth, osmoregulation substances content, chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activity, and other physiological parameters of turnip seedlings were measured after 7 days of salt stress. The results showed that salt stress reduced the seed germination rate, and that the seeds of ‘Wenzhoupancai’ were more sensitive to salt stress. Salt stress inhibited the growth of turnip seedlings. With the increased NaCl concentration, the seedling dry weight, seedling fresh weight, and seedling length of turnip decreased gradually. Under the salt stress treatment, the osmotic regulatory substances and antioxidant enzyme activity in the seedlings of turnip increased significantly. The chlorophyll content increased at a lower NaCl level, but it decreased when the level of NaCl was higher. Growth parameters of turnip seedlings had significant negative correlations with the reactive oxygen content, osmoregulation substances, and antioxidant enzyme activities, but they had positive correlations with chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll content. These results indicated that salt stress-induced oxidative stress in turnip is mainly counteracted by enzymatic defense systems.
Production of Tetraploid and Triploid Hemp
Authors: Kurtz Lauren E. , Brand Mark H. , Lubell-Brand Jessica D.
Published: September 2020

To maximize yield, cannabidiol (CBD) hemp producers prefer female plants, and this is accomplished by using expensive feminized seed, vegetatively propagated female clones, or by removing male plants from dioecious seed lots. Hemp pollen drifts long distances on wind, and pollination of females reduces CBD content. Induction of triploidy is a common strategy used by plant breeders to produce sterile cultivars of agricultural crops. Triploid (3n) hemp, with three sets of chromosomes, was developed by crossing naturally diploid (2n) hemp with tetraploid (4n) hemp. Tetraploid plants used to create triploids were produced using pregerminated seeds and the mitotic spindle inhibitor colchicine. Seedlings from seeds of ‘Abacas’ × [(‘Otto2’ × ‘BaOx’) × (‘BaOx’ × ‘Colorado Cherry’)] treated with 0.05% colchicine or 0.02% colchicine for 12 hours and longer were significantly shorter than controls and ≤1 cm tall at 10 days after sowing. Surviving seedlings exhibited thickened cotyledons and hypocotyls, which indicated a potential change in ploidy. Tetraploid induction ranged from 26% to 64% for pregerminated seeds of five different hemp cultivars (Abacus × Wife, Cherry Wine, Mountain Mango, Wife, and Youngsim10) treated with 0.05% colchicine for 12 hours. Tetraploids had nearly twice the DNA content as diploids according to flow cytometric analysis. Tetraploid ‘Wife’ had larger stomates and reduced stomatal density compared with diploid ‘Wife’. Four triploid ‘Wife’ genotypes produced from crossing tetraploid ‘Wife’ with diploid ‘Wife’ were acclimated to greenhouse conditions after embryo rescue. DNA content and stomate size of triploid ‘Wife’ was intermediate between the parents. This is the first report of triploid plants of hemp. Future research will evaluate the sterility of triploid hemp.
Evaluation of Yield, Marketability, and Nitrate Levels of Lettuce Cultivars Produced in Southern Louisiana
Authors: Afton William D. , Fontenot Kathryn K. , Kuehny Jeff S. , Motsenbocker Carl E.
Published: September 2020

Forty-five cultivars of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) were field-grown using best management practices at the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center (LSU AgCenter) Botanic Gardens in Baton Rouge during the Fall 2011 and Fall 2012 seasons. Recommended cultivars were selected for commercial production in Louisiana based on fresh weight and lettuce size (width and height). Nitrate (NO3–) concentration was analyzed for each cultivar, as lettuces are known to accumulate and concentrate NO3–, and were then compared with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) oral reference dose (RfD—the EPA’s maximum acceptable oral dose of a toxic substance) of 1.6 mg NO3-nitrogen (N) per kilogram body weight per day. Recommended butterhead cultivars were Caliente and Harmony (21.6 and 13.9 ppm NO3–, respectively); recommended green-leaf cultivars were Salad Bowl and Tango (10.6 and 4.6 ppm NO3–, respectively); recommended red-leaf cultivars were Red Salad Bowl, Red Sails, and New Red Fire (15.2, 15.4, and 24.0 ppm NO3–, respectively). The only recommended romaine cultivar was Green Towers (11.2 ppm NO3–), and recommended crisphead cultivars included Raider and Ithaca (17.6 and 14.9 ppm NO3–, respectively). Of the highest yielding cultivars, New Red Fire accumulated the greatest NO3– concentration: 24.0 ppm in both years 1 and 2. The NO3– concentration is less than the levels of concern for both men and women 20 to 74 years old, 3.9% of the RfD for men and 4.59% of the RfD for women.