bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole-exome Sequencing Reveals New Potential Susceptibility Genes for Japanese Familial Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Takai Erina , Nakamura Hiromi , Chiku Suenori , Kubo Emi , Ohmoto Akihiro , Totoki Yasushi , Shibata Tatsuhiro , Higuchi Ryota , Yamamoto Masakazu , Furuse Junji , Shimizu Kyoko , Takahashi Hideaki , Morizane Chigusa , Furukawa Toru , Yachida Shinichi
Published: August 2020

Objective:

The primary objective of this study was to identify novel genes that predispose people in the Japanese population to FPC.

Summary of Background Data:

Familial history of pancreatic cancer is an important risk factor but, to date, few genes predisposing individuals to increased risk of developing FPC have been identified.

Methods:

We performed whole-exome sequencing of germline DNA from 81 Japanese FPC patients. We also investigated somatic gene alterations in 21 matched tumor tissues through whole-exome sequencing and copy number analysis.

Results:

Our germline variants identified previously known FPC susceptibility genes such as ATM and BRCA2, and several novel tumor suppressor genes with potentially deleterious variants for FPC. Interestingly, somatic whole-exome analysis demonstrated that most tumor samples with suspicious loss of heterozygosity of candidate genes were KRAS wild-types, implying that these cases may not have required KRAS activation as a driver event for carcinogenesis.

Conclusions:

Our findings indicate that FPC patients harbor potentially deleterious causative germline variants in tumor suppressor genes, which are known to acquire somatic mutations in pancreatic cancer, and that somatic loss of heterozygosity of some FPC susceptibility genes may contribute to the development of FPC in the absence of somatic KRAS-activating mutation. Genetic testing for a wider variety of FPC-predisposition genes could provide better screening approach for high-risk groups of pancreatic cancer.
A Novel Technique for Bile Duct Division During Laparoscopic Living Donor Hepatectomy to Overcome Biliary Complications in Liver Transplantation Recipients: “Cut and Clip” Rather Than “Clip and Cut”
Authors: Rhu Jinsoo , Kim Mi Seung , Choi Gyu-Seong , Jeong Woo Kyoung , Kim Jong Man , Joh Jae-Won
Published: August 2020

Background.

This study was designed to analyze the clinical impact of a new bile duct division technique during laparoscopic living donor hepatectomy.

Methods.

Laparoscopic donor right hepatectomies performed by a single surgeon between December 2016 and August 2019 were included. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography of the donors was reconstructed, and the length of the common channel of the dividing intrahepatic duct was measured. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the bile duct division techniques of “clip and cut” versus “cut and clip.” Outcome of bile duct division was categorized based on the graft and bile duct type and number of bile duct openings.

Results.

A total of 147 transplantations were included. Outcomes in the “cut and clip” group were better than those in the “clip and cut” group with regard to obtaining an adequate division point (94.2% versus 78.8%; P = 0.019). The “cut and clip” showed superior biliary stricture-free survival than the “clip and cut” group (hazard ratio [HR], 0.456; confidence interval [CI], 0.217-0.957; P = 0.038) whereas recipients with hepaticojejunostomy (HR, 3.358; CI, 1.090-10.350; P = 0.035) and bile duct type other than type I (HR, 2.214; CI, 1.143-4.289; P = 0.018) showed increased risk for biliary stricture-free survival. Better outcome in terms of obtaining a single opening was also obtained in the “cut and clip” group (68.2% versus 84.6%; P = 0.040), and this difference was significant especially with a common channel shorter than 10 mm (45.5% versus 81.2%; P = 0.043).

Conclusions.

The “cut and clip” technique showed superior outcomes to the “clip and cut” technique in terms of fewer bile duct openings and biliary stricture-free survival of the recipients.
The Future Role of Machine Learning in Clinical Transplantation
Authors: Connor Katie L. , O’Sullivan Eoin D. , Marson Lorna P. , Wigmore Stephen J. , Harrison Ewen M.
Published: August 2020

The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning (ML) has revolutionized our daily lives and will soon be instrumental in healthcare delivery. The rise of ML is due to multiple factors: increasing access to massive datasets, exponential increases in processing power, and key algorithmic developments that allow ML models to tackle increasingly challenging questions. Progressively more transplantation research is exploring the potential utility of ML models throughout the patient journey, although this has not yet widely transitioned into the clinical domain. In this review, we explore common approaches used in ML in solid organ clinical transplantation and consider opportunities for ML to help clinicians and patients. We discuss ways in which ML can aid leverage of large complex datasets, generate cutting-edge prediction models, perform clinical image analysis, discover novel markers in molecular data, and fuse datasets to generate novel insights in modern transplantation practice. We focus on key areas in transplantation in which ML is driving progress, explore the future potential roles of ML, and discuss the challenges and limitations of these powerful tools.
Increased Intracranial Pressure Without Hydrocephalus Associated With Spinal Cord Tumor: Literature Review
Authors: Zhou Yujia , McClelland Collin M. , Lee Michael S.
Published: August 2020

Spinal cord tumors (SCTs) may rarely cause increased intracranial pressure without hydrocephalus (IICPWH). A review of the English literature published after 1970 revealed 29 cases of IICPWH secondary to SCT. The following data were acquired: demographics, tumor characteristics, ophthalmic and neurological manifestations, and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) features. We summarize the existing literature regarding various theories of pathophysiology, spinal imaging recommendations, and treatment modalities used in managing such patients. Patients with papilledema who also have neurological signs or symptoms of myelopathy or elevated CSF protein particularly in the setting of an atypical demographic for pseudotumor cerebri should raise a suspicion for a spinal tumor and prompt further investigation with a spinal MRI.
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Triggering Hemifacial Spasm
Authors: Garcia Maria D. , Mansukhani Sasha A. , Chen John J. , Bhatti M. Tariq
Published: August 2020

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a syndrome associated with increased intracranial pressure without a clear underlying cause that is classically seen in young women. Patients typically present with headache and ocular findings, including disc edema and, less frequently, an abduction deficit. To make a diagnosis of IIH, other than cranial nerve 6 or 7 dysfunction, patients must have a normal neurologic examination. When cranial nerve 7 is affected patients can present with hemifacial spasm. We present the case of a young woman with IIH who had hemifacial spasm as one of the presenting symptoms. Her symptoms resolved once she was treated for IIH with acetazolamide.
Pseudo-Gaze Deviation Resulting From Positive Angle Kappa and Esotropia
Authors: Rateaux Maxence , Espinasse-Berrod Marie-Andrée , Couret Chloé , Bremond-Gignac Dominique , Robert Matthieu P.
Published: August 2020

A 6-year-old boy was referred for constant right gaze deviation. Rather than a gaze deviation, he constantly seemed to look on the left side of any displayed target. Examination revealed the association of a highly positive angle Kappa and an esotropia of equal values. He also exhibited signs of ocular albinism with no associated infantile nystagmus syndrome. The X-linked ocular albinism was confirmed genetically, explaining the presence of a positive angle Kappa. A highly positive angle Kappa can be associated with a convergent strabismus; in case both values offset each other, this can result in a constant “sidelooking,” which should not be confused with a gaze deviation.
Androgen receptor-reduced sensitivity is associated with increased mortality and poorer glycaemia in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Heald Adrian H. , Yadegar far Ghasem , Livingston Mark , Fachim Helene , Lunt Mark , Narayanan Ram Prakash , Siddals Kirk , Moreno Gabriela , Jones Richard , Malipatil Nagaraj , Rutter Martin , Gibson Martin , Donn Rachelle , Hackett Geoff , Jones Hugh
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Hypogonadism is associated with poorer glycaemic outcomes/increased all-cause and cardiovascular morbidity/mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Increasing CAG repeat number within exon-1 of the androgen receptor (AR) gene is associated with increased AR resistance/insulin resistance.

Methods

We determined in a long-term 14-year follow-up cohort of 423 T2DM Caucasian men, the association between baseline androgen status/CAG repeat number (by PCR then Sequenom sequencing) and metabolic/cardiovascular outcomes.

Results

Metabolic outcomes: Lower total testosterone was associated with higher BMI (kg/m2) at 14-year-follow-up: regression coefficient −0.30 (95% confidence interval −0.445 to −0.157), P = 0.0001. The range of CAG repeat number was 9-29 repeats. Higher CAG repeat number in exon-1 of the AR gene was associated with higher follow-up HbA1c2016 – each unit increase in CAG repeat-associated with an increment of 0.1% in HbA1C2016 (P = 0.04), independent of baseline testosterone. Cardiovascular outcomes and mortality: At an average of 14-year-follow-up, 55.8% of hypogonadal men had died vs 36.1% of eugonadal men (P = 0.001). There was a ‘u’ shaped relation between number of CAG repeats and mortality. Twenty-one CAG repeats were associated with an up to nearly 50% lower mortality rate than <21 CAG repeats and >21 CAG repeats – independent of baseline testosterone level.

Conclusion

A higher number of CAG repeats at the AR gene associates with higher future HbA1c. There was a ‘u’ shaped relation between CAG repeat number and mortality rate. Determination of CAG repeat number may become part of assessment of androgen status/its consequences for men with T2DM.
Isolation and genome sequencing of Staphylococcus schleiferi subspecies coagulans from Antarctic and North Sea seals
Authors: Foster Geoff , Robb Andrew , Paterson Gavin K.
Published: August 2020

Reports on the commensal organism and opportunistic pathogen

Staphylococcus schleiferi

have largely considered isolates from humans and companion dogs. Two subspecies are recognized: the coagulase-negative

S. schleiferi

ssp. schleiferi, typically seen in humans, and the coagulase-positive

S. schleiferi

ssp. coagulans, typically seen in dogs. In this study, we report the isolation, genome sequencing and comparative genomics of three

S. schleiferi

ssp. coagulans isolates from mouth samples from two species of healthy, free-living Antarctic seals, southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) and Antarctic fur seals (Arctocephalus gazella), in the South Orkney Islands, Antarctica, and three isolates from post-mortem samples from grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) in Scotland, UK. This is the first report of

S. schleiferi

ssp. coagulans isolation from Antarctic fur seal and grey seal. The Antarctic fur seal represents the first isolation of

S. schleiferi

ssp. coagulans from the family Otariidae, while the grey seal represents the first isolation from a pinniped in the Northern Hemisphere. We compare seal, dog and human isolates from both

S. schleiferi

subspecies in the first genome-based phylogenetic analysis of the species.
Streptomyces harenosi sp. nov., a home for a gifted strain isolated from Indonesian sand dune soil
Authors: Kusuma Ali Budhi , Nouioui Imen , Klenk Hans-Peter , Goodfellow Michael
Published: August 2020

A polyphasic study was undertaken to establish the position of a

Streptomyces

strain, isolate PRKS01-65T, recovered from sand dune soil collected at Parangkusumo, Yogyakarta Province, Java, Indonesia. A combination of chemotaxonomic, cultural and morphological properties confirmed its position in the genus of

Streptomyces

. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analyses showed that the isolate was most closely related to

Streptomyces leeuwenhoekii

C34T (99.9 % similarity) and loosely associated with the type strains of

Streptomyces chiangmaiensis

(98.7 % similarity) and

Streptomyces glomeratus

(98.9 % similarity). Multilocus sequence analyses based on five conserved housekeeping gene alleles confirmed the close relationship between the isolate and

S. leeuwenhoekii

C34T, although both strains belonged to a well-supported clade that encompassed the type strains of

S. glomeratus

,

Streptomyces griseomycini

,

Streptomyces griseostramineus

,

Streptomyces labedae

,

Streptomyces lomondensis

and

Streptomyces spinoverrucosus

. A comparison of the draft genome sequence generated for the isolate with corresponding whole genome sequences of its closest phylogenomic neighbours showed that it formed a well-separated lineage with

S. leeuwenhoekii

C34T. These strains can also be distinguished using a combination of phenotypic properties and by average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization similarities of 94.3 and 56 %, values consistent with their classification in different species. Based on this wealth of data it is proposed that isolate PRKS01-65T (=NCIMB 15211T=CCMM B1302T=ICEBB-03T) be classified as Streptomyces harenosi sp. nov. The genome of the isolate contains several biosynthetic gene clusters with the potential to produce new natural products.
Pediatric surgical services in Bangladesh during the COVID 19 pandemic: How they are affected and how to overcome the backlog, keeping healthcare professionals safe
Authors: Hannan Md Jafrul , Parveen Mosammat Kohinoor , Hasan Md Samiul
Published: August 2020

Background

Severe Acute Respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which originated in Wuhan, China, has turned into a pandemic. All countries have implemented multiple strategies to try mitigating the losses caused by this virus. To stop the rapid spread of the disease and in compliance with the World Health Organization’s social distancing policy, the government of Bangladesh has implemented a number of strategies, one of which is to limit the spread of the virus in hospitals by postponing elective procedures and providing only emergency services in the hospitals.

The objective of this survey was to assess the current status of pediatric surgical procedures in different hospitals in Bangladesh and assess the effects of the current restrictions along with their implications in the long run.

Materials and Methods

A survey was performed among doctors from public and private hospitals in Bangladesh to evaluate the status on pediatric surgery.

Results

The results clearly revealed the lack of a significant reduction in doctors’ exposure to SARS-CoV-2 by postponing elective procedures.

Conclusion

Keeping in mind the socioeconomic and health care conditions of the country, the author recommend resuming elective surgical procedures.
Complement C3 vs C5 inhibition in severe COVID-19: early clinical findings reveal differential biological efficacy
Authors: Mastellos Dimitrios C. , Pires da Silva Bruno G. P. , Fonseca Benedito A. L. , Fonseca Natasha P. , Martins Maria A. , Mastaglio Sara , Ruggeri Annalisa , Sironi Marina , Radermacher Peter , Skendros Panagiotis , Ritis Konstantinos , Manfra Ilenia , Iacobelli Simona , Huber-Lang Markus , Nilsson Bo , Yancopoulou Despina , Connolly E. Sander , Garlanda Cecilia , Ciceri Fabio , Risitano Antonio M. , Calado Rodrigo T. , Lambris John D.
Published: August 2020

Growing clinical evidence has implicated complement as a pivotal driver of COVID-19 immunopathology. Deregulated complement activation may fuel cytokine-driven hyper-inflammation, thrombotic microangiopathy and NET-driven immunothrombosis, thereby leading to multi-organ failure. Complement therapeutics have gained traction as candidate drugs for countering the detrimental consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Whether blockade of terminal complement effectors (C5, C5a, or C5aR1) can elicit similar outcomes to upstream intervention at the level of C3 remains debated. Here we have compared the clinical efficacy of the C5-targeting mAb eculizumab with that of the compstatin-based C3-targeted drug candidate AMY-101 in small independent cohorts of severe, mainly non-intubated COVID-19 patients. Our exploratory study indicates that therapeutic complement inhibition abrogates COVID-19 hyper-inflammation. Both C3 and C5 inhibitors elicit a robust anti-inflammatory response, reflected by a steep decline in CRP and IL-6 levels, associated with marked lung function improvement and resolution of SARS-CoV-2-associated ARDS. C3 inhibition afforded broader therapeutic control in COVID19 patients by attenuating both C3a and sC5b-9 generation and preventing FB consumption. This broader inhibitory profile of anti-C3 treatment was associated with a more robust decline of neutrophil counts, a greater decline of median LDH levels and more prominent lymphocyte recovery within the first 7 days of treatment. These early clinical results offer important insight into the differential mechanistic basis and underlying biology of C3 and C5 inhibition in COVID-19. They point to a broader pathogenic involvement of C3-mediated pathways and set the stage for larger prospective trials that will benchmark these complement-targeting agents in COVID-19.
Decline of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG, IgM and IgA in convalescent COVID-19 patients within 100 days after hospital discharge
Authors: Ma Huan , Zhao Dan , Zeng Weihong , Yang Yunru , Hu Xiaowen , Zhou Peigen , Weng Jianping , Cheng Linzhao , Zheng Xueying , Jin Tengchuan
Published: August 2020

Monitoring the levels of SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies such as IgG, M and A in COVID-19 patient is an alternative method for diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infection and an simple way to monitor immune responses in convalescent patients and after vaccination. Here, we assessed the levels of SARS-CoV-2 RBD specific antibodies in twenty-seven COVID-19 convalescent patients over 28–99 days after hospital discharge. Almost all patient who had severe or moderate COVID-19 symptoms and a high-level of IgG during the hospitalization showed a significant reduction at revisit. The remaining patients who had a low-level IgG during hospitalization stayed low at revisit. As expected, IgM levels in almost all convalescent patients reduced significantly or stayed low at revisit. The RBD-specific IgA levels were also reduced significantly at revisit. We also attempted to estimate decline rates of virus-specific antibodies using a previously established exponential decay model of antibody kinetics after infection. The predicted days when convalescent patients’ RBD-specific IgG reaches to an undetectable level are approximately 273 days after hospital discharge, while the predicted decay times are 150 days and 108 days for IgM and IgA, respectively. This investigation and report will aid current and future studies to develope SARS-CoV-2 vaccines that are potent and long-lasting.
Detection and Characterization of Thrombosis in Humans using Fibrin-Targeted Positron Emission Tomography and Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Izquierdo-Garcia David , Désogère Pauline , Philip Anne L. , Mekkaoui Choukri , Weiner Rory B. , Catalano Onofrio A. , Chen Yin-Ching Iris , DeFaria Yeh Doreen , Mansour Moussa , Catana Ciprian , Caravan Peter , Sosnovik David E.
Published: August 2020

The detection of thrombus in the left atrial appendage (LAA) is vital in the prevention of stroke. We present a novel technique to detect and characterize LAA thrombus in humans using positron emission tomography (PET) of a fibrin-binding radiotracer, [64Cu]FBP8. Initial testing in healthy volunteers (n = 8) revealed that [64Cu]FBP8 was stable to metabolism and was rapidly eliminated with a blood half-life of one hour. Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and recent transesophageal echocardiograms (TEEs) of the LAA (positive n = 12, negative n = 12) were studied. PET, integrated with magnetic resonance (PET-MR), of the thorax was performed one hour after [64Cu]FBP8 injection. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVMax) in the LAA was significantly higher in the TEE positive than negative subjects, median [interquartile range] of 4.0 [3.0–6.0] vs. 2.3 [2.1–2.5]; p < 0.001. A SUVMax threshold of 2.6 correctly identified 12/12 positive TEEs and 10/12 negative ones, yielding an area-under-the-receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.97. The minimum longitudinal magnetic relaxation time (T1Min) in the LAA was significantly shorter in the TEE positive than TEE negative group 970 [780–1080] vs. 1380 [1120–1620], p < 0.05, with some overlap between the groups. Logistic regression using SUVMax and T1Min allowed all TEE positive and negative subjects to be classified with 100% accuracy. A strong correlation was seen between fibrin (SUVMax) and methemoglobin (T1Min) content in the LAA. In conclusion, the detection of LAA thrombus in humans with PET-MR of [64Cu]FBP8 is highly accurate and provides useful information on the biological properties of cardiac thrombus.

One Sentence Summary

First-in-human fibrin-targeted PET-MR of thrombus
Imaging protocol, feasibility and reproducibility of cardiovascular phenotyping in a large tri-ethnic population-based study of older people: the Southall and Brent Revisited (SABRE) study
Authors: Saikhan Lamia Al , Alobaida Muath , Bhuva Anish , Chaturvedi Nish , Heasman John , Hughes Alun D. , Jones Siana , Eastwood Sophie , Manisty Charlotte , March Katherine , K Ghosh Arjun , Mayet Jamil , Oguntade Ayodipupo , Tillin Therese , Williams Suzanne , Wright Andrew , Park Chloe
Published: August 2020

Background

People of South Asian and African Caribbean ethnicities living in UK have a high risk of cardiometabolic disease. Limited data exist regarding detailed cardiometabolic phenotyping in this population. Methods enabling this are widely available, but the practical aspects of undertaking such studies in large and diverse samples are seldom reported.

Methods

The Southall and Brent Revisited (SABRE) study is the UK’s largest tri-ethnic longitudinal cohort. Over 1400 surviving participants (58-85 y) attended the 2nd study-visit (2008-2011) during which comprehensive cardiovascular phenotyping, including 3D-echocardiography (3D-speckle-tracking (3D-STE)), computed tomography, coronary artery calcium scoring, pulse-wave velocity, central blood pressure, carotid artery ultrasound and retinal imaging were performed. We describe the methods used with the aim of providing a guide to their feasibility and reproducibility in a large tri-ethnic population-based study of older people.

Results

Conventional echocardiography and all vascular measurements showed high feasibility (>90% analyzable of clinic-attendees). 3DE and 3D-STE were less feasible in this age group (76% 3DE acquisition feasibility and 38% 3D-STE feasibility of clinic-attendees). Intra- and inter-observer variabilities were excellent for most of conventional and advanced echocardiographic measures. The test-retest reproducibility was good-excellent and fair-good for conventional and advanced echocardiographic measures, respectively, but lower than when re-reading the same images. All vascular measures demonstrated excellent or fair-good reproducibility.

Conclusions

Detailed cardiovascular phenotyping is feasible and reproducible in an ethnically diverse population. The data collected will lead to a better understanding of why people of South Asian and African Caribbean ancestry are at elevated risk of cardiometabolic diseases.
Urban Sprawl of Covid-19 Epidemic in India: Lessons in the First Semester
Authors: Gupta Rajeev , Gaur Kiran , Khedar Raghubir S , Dhamija Rajinder K
Published: August 2020

Background & Objective

The covid-19 epidemic is rapidly escalating in India and unlike developed countries there is no evidence of plateau or decline in the past 6 months. To evaluate association of state-level sociodemographics with incident cases and deaths we performed an ecological study.

Methods

Publicly available data sources were used. Absolute number of covid-19 cases and deaths were obtained and cases and deaths/million in each state calculated from February to July 2020. To assess association of state level disease burden with sociodemographic variables (urbanization, human development, healthcare availability, healthcare access and quality etc.) we determined Pearson’s correlation and logarithmic trends.

Results

Covid-19 in India has led to >2,000,000 cases and 45,000 deaths by end July 2020. There is large variation in state-level cases/million ranging from 7247 (Delhi), 3728 (Goa) and 3427 (Maharashtra) to less than 300/million in a few. Deaths/million range from 212 (Delhi), 122 (Maharashtra) and 51 (Tamilnadu) to 2 in north-eastern states. Most of the high burden states (except Delhi) are reporting increasing burden and deaths with the largest increase in July 2020. There is a significant positive correlation of urbanization with covid-19 cases (r=0.65, R2=0.35) and deaths (r=0.60, R2=0.28) and weaker correlation with other sociodemographic variables. From March to July 2020, stable R2 value for urbanization is observed with cases (0.37 to 0.39) while it is increasing for deaths (0.10 to 0.28).

Conclusions

Covid-19 epidemic is escalating in India and cases as well as deaths are significantly greater in more urbanized states. Prevention, control and treatment should focus on urban health systems.
REPERCUSSIONS OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF PREGNANT AND PUERPERAL WOMEN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Vieira Leticia Genova , Camargo Emerson Lucas Junior Silva , Schneider Guilherme , da Silva Gabrielly Pereira Rocatti , Thomazini Micaella , Possani Matheus Arantes , Matioli Matheus Rozário , de Sousa Ibiapina Aline Raquel
Published: August 2020

Background

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused negative impacts on the physical and mental health of the population worldwide. Pregnant and puerperal women comprise the population most vulnerable to impacts on mental health.

Objective

To synthesize the scientific evidence on the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of pregnant and puerperal women.

Methods

Systematic review focused on answering the question “what is the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of pregnan and puerperal women?”. In order to perform the search of the studies, we used combinations among the keywords: pregnan*, puerper*, prenatal, perinatal, “mental health”, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2. In total, we identified 150 studies from the databases and 14 studies were selected from preprints. We identified another four studies through manual search, totaling 18 studies to compose the final sample of this review.

Results

Anxiety and depression were the main outcomes found, being shown in 15 and 11 studies, respectively. Other outcomes found in more than one study were: concerns related to several factors, loneliness, stress and fear.

Conclusion

From this review, we can infer that the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of pregnant and puerperal women, with depression and anxiety being the most frequent changes. The social detachment, the media pressure, the fear of contracting the infection, the economic scenario and the rupture of family rituals are shown as intensifying factors of psychological distress, thus causing changes in the mental health of these women.
Summer COVID-19 third wave: faster high altitude spread suggests high UV adaptation
Authors: Seligmann Hervé , Vuillerme Nicolas , Demongeot Jacques
Published: August 2020

We present spread parameters for first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemy for USA states, and third wave for 32 regions (19 countries and 13 states of the USA) detected beginning of August 2020. USA first/second wave spreads increase/decrease with population density, are uncorrelated with temperature and median population age. Pooling all 32 regions, third wave spread is slower than for first wave, similar to second wave, and increases with mean altitude (second wave slopes decrease above 900m). Apparently, viruses adapted in spring (second wave) to high temperatures and infecting the young, and in summer (third) waves for spread at altitudes above 1000m. Third wave slopes are not correlated to temperature, so patterns with elevation presumably indicate resistance to relatively high UV regimes. Environmental trends of the COVID-19 pandemy change at incredible rates, making predictions based on classical epidemiological knowledge particularly uncertain.
Engineering luminescent biosensors for point-of-care SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection
Authors: Elledge Susanna K. , Zhou Xin X. , Byrnes James R. , Martinko Alexander J. , Lui Irene , Pance Katarina , Lim Shion A. , Glasgow Jeff E. , Glasgow Anum A. , Turcios Keirstinne , Iyer Nikita , Torres Leonel , Peluso Michael J. , Henrich Timothy J. , Wang Taia T. , Tato Cristina M. , Leung Kevin K. , Greenhouse Bryan , Wells James A.
Published: August 2020

Current serology tests for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies mainly take the form of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays or lateral flow assays, with the former being laborious and the latter being expensive and often lacking sufficient sensitivity and scalability. Here we present the development and validation of a rapid, low-cost solution-based assay to detect antibodies in serum, plasma, whole blood, and saliva, using rationally designed split luciferase antibody biosensors (spLUC). This new assay, which generates quantitative results in as short as 5 minutes, substantially reduces the complexity and improves the scalability of COVID-19 antibody tests for point-of-care and broad population testing.
Single-strand RPA for rapid and sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA
Authors: Kim Youngeun , Yaseen Adam B. , Kishi Jocelyn Y. , Hong Fan , Saka Sinem K. , Sheng Kuanwei , Gopalkrishnan Nikhil , Schaus Thomas E. , Yin Peng
Published: August 2020

We report the single-strand Recombinase Polymerase Amplification (ssRPA) method, which merges the fast, isothermal amplification of RPA with subsequent rapid conversion of the double-strand DNA amplicon to single strands, and hence enables facile hybridization-based, high-specificity readout. We demonstrate the utility of ssRPA for sensitive and rapid (4 copies per 50 µL reaction within 10 min, or 8 copies within 8 min) visual detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA spiked samples, as well as clinical saliva and nasopharyngeal swabs in VTM or water, on lateral flow devices. The ssRPA method promises rapid, sensitive, and accessible RNA detection to facilitate mass testing in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Decontaminating N95 respirators during the Covid-19 pandemic: simple and practical approaches to increase decontamination capacity, speed, safety and ease of use
Authors: Russo Riccardo , Levine Carly , Grady Courtney , Peixoto Blas , McCormick-Ell Jessica , Block Thomas , Gresko Anthony , Demas Guillaume , Chitale Poonam , Frees Alexis , Ruiz Alejandro , Alland David
Published: August 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a severe shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), especially N95 respirators. Efficient, effective and economically feasible methods for large-scale PPE decontamination are urgently needed.

Aims

(1) to develop protocols for effectively decontaminating PPE using vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP); (2) to develop novel approaches that decrease set up and take down time while also increasing decontamination capacity (3) to test decontamination efficiency for N95 respirators heavily contaminated by makeup or moisturizers.

Methods

We converted a decommissioned Biosafety Level 3 laboratory into a facility that could be used to decontaminate N95 respirators. N95 respirators were hung on metal racks, stacked in piles, placed in paper bags or covered with makeup or moisturizer. A VHP®VICTORYTM unit from STERIS was used to inject VHP into the facility. Biological and chemical indicators were used to validate the decontamination process.

Findings

N95 respirators individually hung on metal racks were successfully decontaminated using VHP. N95 respirators were also successfully decontaminated when placed in closed paper bags or if stacked in piles of up to six. Stacking reduced the time needed to arrange N95 respirators for decontamination by approximately two-thirds while almost tripling facility capacity. Makeup and moisturizer creams did not interfere with the decontamination process.

Conclusions

Respirator stacking can reduce the hands-on time and increase decontamination capacity. When personalization is needed, respirators can be decontaminated in labeled paper bags. Make up or moisturizers do not appear to interfere with VHP decontamination.
Keep calm and carry on: safety, feasibility and early outcomes of head and neck cancer treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Walker Sara , Thomson Maureen , Campbell Frances , Hay Lisa , Grose Derek , James Allan , Lamb Carolynn , Nixon Ioanna , Schipani Stefano , Wilson Christina , Paterson Claire
Published: August 2020

Background

Patients with cancer are considered at higher risk of COVID-19 infection and increased severity of infection. Anti-cancer treatment may further increase those risks.

The aim of this work is to report early outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) treated during the pandemic.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective cohort study in a UK tertiary level oncology centre between 1st March and 23 June 2020, including patients with HNC who were either newly diagnosed, had developed new recurrent/metastatic disease, or were already scheduled to receive treatment during that period.

Results

200 patients were evaluated. Median age was 64 years, 65.5% had multiple co-morbidities, 77.5% were current or ex-smokers and 59.5% lived in areas of deprivation. 99 patients were treated with 6 weeks of radical (chemo) radiotherapy. Systemic anti-cancer treatment was delivered to 40 patients.

2 (1.0%) patients with HNC had confirmed COVID-19 infection; 1 patient prior to primary radical RT - no delay to treatment was required and RT was completed as planned, 1 patient acquired COVID-19 after primary surgery but recovered well and started adjuvant RT 9.7 weeks after surgery.

The proportion of patients receiving supportive care only (19.5%) was in keeping with that pre-COVID-19. The proportion of patients not completing (chemo) radiotherapy (3.4%) or with gaps in treatment (14.1%) was similar to pre-COVID-19. 30-day mortality after radical (chemo)radiotherapy was 2.3%, no higher than in previous years.

Conclusions

It is feasible and safe to deliver standard treatment for patients with HNC during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Use, reuse or discard: quantitatively defined variance in N95 respirator integrity following vaporized hydrogen peroxide decontamination during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Levine Carly , Grady Courtney , Block Thomas , Hurley Harry , Russo Riccardo , Peixoto Blas , Frees Alexis , Ruiz Alejandro , Alland David
Published: August 2020

Background

COVID-19 has stretched the ability of many institutions to supply needed personal protective equipment, especially N95 respirators. N95 decontamination and reuse programs provide one potential solution to this problem. Unfortunately, a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of decontamination on the integrity of various N95 models using a quantitative fit test (QTFT) approach is lacking.

Aims

1) To investigate the effects of up to eight rounds of vaporized H2O2 (VHP) decontamination on the integrity of N95 respirators currently in use in a hospital setting. 2) To examine if N95 respirators worn by one user can adapt to the face shape of a second user with no compromise of integrity following VHP decontamination.

Methods

The PortaCount Pro+ Respirator Fit Tester Model 8038 was used to quantitatively define the integrity, measured by fit, of N95 respirators following decontamination with VHP.

Findings

There was an observable downward trend in the integrity of Halyard Fluidshield 46727 N95 respirators throughout eight cycles of decontamination with VHP. The integrity of 3M 1870 N95 respirators was significantly reduced after the respirator was worn, decontaminated with VHP, and then quantitatively fit tested on a second user. Furthermore, we uncovered inconsistencies between qualitative fit test and QTFT results that may have strong implications on the fit testing method used by institutions.

Conclusions

Our data revealed variability in the integrity of different N95 models after VHP decontamination and exposed potential limitations of N95 decontamination and reuse programs.
First study on surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater systems and related environments in Wuhan: Post-lockdown
Authors: Zhao Lu , Atoni Evans , Du Yao , Zhang Huaiyu , Donde Oscar , Huang Doudou , Xiao Shuqi , Ma Teng , Shu Zhu , Yuan Zhiming , Tong Lei , Xia Han
Published: August 2020

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as an effective environmental surveillance tool in monitoring fecal-oral pathogen infections within a community. Congruently, SARS-CoV-2 virus, the etiologic agent of COVID-19, has been demonstrated to infect the gastrointestinal tissues, and be shed in feces. In the present study, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was concentrated from wastewater, sludge, surface water, ground water, and soil samples of municipal and hospital wastewater systems and related environment in Wuhan during the COVID-19 middle and low risk periods, and the viral RNA copies quantified using RT-qPCR. From the findings of this study, during the middle risk period, one influent sample and three secondary treatment effluents collected from Waste Water Treatment Plant 2 (WWTP2), as well as two influent samples from wastewater system of Hospital 2 were SARS-CoV-2 RNA positive. One sludge sample collected from Hospital 4; which was obtained during low risk period, was positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. These study findings demonstrate the significance of WBE in continuous surveilling and monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 at the community level, even when the COVID19 prevalence is low. Therefore, the application of WBE is principally useful in tracking the level of infections in communities and the risk assessment of the secondary environment.
A rapid and efficient screening system for neutralizing antibodies and its application for the discovery of potent neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD
Authors: Han Xiaojian , Wang Yingming , Li Shenglong , Hu Chao , Li Tingting , Gu Chenjian , Wang Kai , Shen Meiying , Wang Jianwei , Hu Jie , Wu Ruixin , Mu Song , Gong Fang , Chen Qian , Gao Fengxia , Huang Jingjing , Long Yingyi , Luo Feiyang , Song Shuyi , Long Shunhua , Hao Yanan , Li Luo , Wu Yang , Xu Wei , Cai Xia , Gao Qingzhu , Zhang Guiji , He Changlong , Deng Kun , Du Li , Nai Yaru , Wang Wang , Xie Youhua , Qu Di , Huang Ailong , Tang Ni , Jin Aishun
Published: August 2020

Neutralizing antibodies (Abs) have been considered as promising therapeutics for the prevention and treatment of pathogens. After the outbreak of COVID-19, potent neutralizing Abs to SARS-CoV-2 were promptly developed, and a few of those neutralizing Abs are being tested in clinical studies. However, there were few methodologies detailly reported on how to rapidly and efficiently generate neutralizing Abs of interest. Here, we present a strategically optimized method for precisive screening of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), which enabled us to identify SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) specific Abs within 4 days, followed by another 2 days for neutralization activity evaluation. By applying the screening system, we obtained 198 Abs against the RBD of SARS-CoV-2. Excitingly, we found that approximately 50% (96/198) of them were candidate neutralizing Abs in a preliminary screening of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus and 20 of these 96 neutralizing Abs were confirmed with high potency. Furthermore, 2 mAbs with the highest neutralizing potency were identified to block authentic SARS-CoV-2 with the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) at concentrations of 9.88 ng/ml and 11.13 ng/ml. In this report, we demonstrated that the optimized neutralizing Abs screening system is useful for the rapid and efficient discovery of potent neutralizing Abs against SARS-CoV-2. Our study provides a methodology for the generation of preventive and therapeutic antibody drugs for emerging infectious diseases.
Population genomics of two closely related anhydrobiotic midges reveals differences in adaptation to extreme desiccation
Authors: Shaykhutdinov N.M. , Klink G.V. , Garushyants S.K. , Kozlova O.S. , Cherkasov A.V. , Kikawada T. , Okuda T. , Pemba D. , Deviatiiarov R.M. , Gazizova G.R. , Penin A.A. , Shagimardanova E.I. , Cornette R. , Gusev O.A. , Bazykin G.A.
Published: August 2020

The sleeping chironomidPolypedilum vanderplankiis capable of anhydrobiosis, a striking example of adaptation to extreme desiccation. Tolerance to complete desiccation in this species is associated with the emergence of multiple paralogs of protective genes. One of the gene families highly expressed under anhydrobiosis and involved in this process are protein-L-isoaspartate (D-aspartate) O-methyltransferases (PIMTs). Recently, a closely related anhydrobiotic midge from Malawi,P. pembai, showing the ability to tolerate complete desiccation similar to that ofP. vanderplanki, but experiences more frequent desiccation-rehydration cycles due to differences in ecology, was discovered. Here, we sequenced and assembled the genome ofP. pembaiand performed a population genomics analysis of several populations ofP. vanderplankiand a population ofP. pembai.We observe positive selection and radical changes in the genetic architecture of thePIMTlocus between the two species, including multiple duplication events in theP. pembailineage. In particular,PIMT-4, the most highly expressed of thesePIMTs, is present in six copies in theP. pembai; these copies differ in expression profiles, suggesting possible sub- or neofunctionalization. The nucleotide diversity (π) of the genomic region carrying these new genes is decreased inP. pembai, but not in the orthologous region carrying the ancestral gene inP. vanderplanki, providing evidence for a selective sweep associated with post-duplication adaptation in the former. Overall, our results suggest an extensive recent and likely ongoing, adaptation of the mechanisms of anhydrobiosis.
Mapping the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein-derived peptidome presented by HLA class II on dendritic cells
Authors: Parker Robert , Partridge Thomas , Wormald Catherine , Kawahara Rebeca , Stalls Victoria , Aggelakopoulou Maria , Parker Jimmy , Doherty Rebecca Powell , Morejon Yoanna Ariosa , Lee Esther , Saunders Kevin , Haynes Barton F. , Acharya Priyamvada , Thaysen-Andersen Morten , Borrow Persephone , Ternette Nicola
Published: August 2020

Understanding and eliciting protective immune responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an urgent priority. To facilitate these objectives, we have profiled the repertoire of human leukocyte antigen class II (HLA-II)-bound peptides presented by HLA-DR diverse monocyte-derived dendritic cells pulsed with SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein. We identify 209 unique HLA-II-bound peptide sequences, many forming nested sets, which map to sites throughout S including glycosylated regions. Comparison of the glycosylation profile of the S protein to that of the HLA-II-bound S peptides revealed substantial trimming of glycan residues on the latter, likely introduced during antigen processing. Our data also highlight the receptor-binding motif in S1 as a HLA-DR-binding peptide-rich region. Results from this study have application in vaccine design, and will aid analysis of CD4+ T cell responses in infected individuals and vaccine recipients.
Mice learn multi-step routes by memorizing subgoal locations
Authors: Shamash Philip , Olesen Sarah F. , Iordanidou Panagiota , Campagner Dario , Nabhojit Banerjee , Branco Tiago
Published: August 2020

The behavioral strategies that mammals use to learn multi-step routes in natural settings are unknown. Here we show that mice spontaneously adopt a subgoal memory strategy. We first investigated how mice navigate to shelter in response to threats when the direct path is blocked. Initially, they fled toward the shelter and negotiated obstacles using sensory cues. Within twenty minutes, they adopted a subgoal strategy, initiating escapes by running directly to the obstacle’s edge. Mice continued to target this subgoal location after the obstacle was removed, indicating use of spatial memory. However, standard models of spatial learning – egocentric-movement repetition and internal-map building – did not explain how subgoal memories formed. Instead, mice used a hybrid approach: memorizing salient locations encountered during spontaneous ‘practice runs’. This strategy was also used during geometrically identical reward-seeking behavior. These results suggest that subgoal memorization is a fundamental strategy by which rodents learn efficient multi-step routes in new environments.
Centrosome amplification mediates small extracellular vesicles secretion via lysosome disruption
Authors: Adams Sophie D. , Csere Judit , D’angelo Gisela , Carter Edward P. , Arnandis Teresa , Dodel Martin , Kocher Hemant , Grose Richard , Raposo Graça , Mardakheh Faraz , Godinho Susana A.
Published: August 2020

Bidirectional communication between cells and their surrounding environment is critical in both normal and pathological settings. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which facilitate the horizontal transfer of molecules between cells, are recognized as an important constituent of cell-cell communication. In cancer, alterations in EV secretion contribute to the growth and metastasis of tumor cells. However, the mechanisms underlying these changes remain largely unknown. Here, we show that centrosome amplification is associated with and sufficient to promote small extracellular vesicle (SEV) secretion in pancreatic cancer cells. This is a direct result due of lysosomal dysfunction, caused by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) downstream of extra centrosomes. Defects in lysosome function promotes multivesicular body fusion with the plasma membrane, thereby enhancingSEV secretion. Furthermore, we find thatSEVs secreted in response to amplified centrosomes are functionally distinct and activate pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). These activated PSCs promote the invasion of pancreatic cancer cells in heterotypic 3-D cultures. We propose thatSEVs secreted by cancer cells with amplified centrosomes influence the bidirectional communication between the tumor cells and the surrounding stroma to promote malignancy.
No evidence for prolactin’s involvement in the post-ejaculatory refractory period
Authors: Valente Susana , Marques Tiago , Lima Susana Q.
Published: August 2020

In many species, ejaculation is followed by a state of decreased sexual motivation, the post-ejaculatory refractory period. Several lines of evidence have suggested prolactin, a pituitary hormone released around the time of ejaculation in humans and other animals, to be a decisive player in the establishment of the refractory period. However, data supporting this hypothesis is controversial. We took advantage of two different strains of house mouse, a wild derived and a classical laboratory strain, that differ substantially in their sexual behavior, to investigate prolactin’s involvement in sexual motivation and the refractory period. First, we show that there is prolactin release during sexual behavior in male mice. Second, using a pharmacological approach, we show that acute manipulations of prolactin levels, either mimicking the natural release during sexual behavior or inhibiting its occurrence, do not affect sexual motivation or shorten the refractory period, respectively. Therefore, we show compelling evidence refuting the idea that prolactin released during copulation is involved in the establishment of the refractory period, a long-standing hypothesis in the field of behavioral endocrinology.