bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Propofol on Intracranial Pressure and Prognosis in Severe Neuropathy Patients Undergoing Endotracheal Suctioning
Authors: Wu Menghang , Yin Xiaorong , Chen Maojun , Liu Yan , Zhang Xia , Li Tingting , Long Yujuan , Wu Xiaomei , Pu Lihui , Zhang Maojie , Hu Zhi , Ye Ling
Published: July 2020

Background To investigate whether intravenous propofol before endotracheal suctioning (ES) in severe neuropathy patients can reduce the sputum suction response, improve the prognosis, and accelerate recovery.Methods A total of 208 severe neuropathy patients after craniocerebral surgery were enrolled in the study. The subjects were randomly divided into the experimental group (n=104) and the control group (n=104). The experimental group was given intravenous propofol, 0.5-1 mg/kg, before ES, while the control group was subjected to ES only. Changes in vital signs, sputum suction effect, the fluctuation range of intracranial pressure (ICP) before and after ES, choking cough response, short-term complications, and length of stay and hospitalization cost were evaluated. Additionally, the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) prognosis score was obtained at six months after the operation.Results At the baseline, the characteristics of the two groups were comparable (P>0.05). The increase of systolic blood pressure after ES was higher in the control group than in the experimental group (P < 0.05). The average peak value of ICP in the experimental group during the suctioning (15.57 ± 12.31 mmHg) was lower than in the control group (18.24 ± 8.99 mmHg; P < 0.05). The percentage of patients experiencing cough reaction and pain during suctioning in the experimental group was lower than in the control group (P < 0.05), and the fluctuation range of ICP was increased (P < 0.0001). The effect of ES was achieved in both groups. The incidence of short-term complications in the two groups was comparable (P > 0.05). The difference at 6 months after the surgery, the GOS scores were significantly higher in the experimental than in the control group (4-5 points, 51.54% vs. 32.64%; 1-3 points, 48.46% vs. 67.36%; P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the length of stay and hospitalization cost between the two groups.Conclusions Propofol sedation before ES can reduce the choking cough response, the pain experience of patients, and the intracranial hypertension response. The use of propofol is safe and improves long-term prognosis.The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on May 16, 2015 (ChiCTR-IOR-15006441).
Bioinformatics and Expression Analysis of Histone Modification Genes in Grapevine Predict Their Involvement in Seed Development, Powdery Mildew Resistance, and Hormonal Signaling
Authors: Wang Li , Ahmad Bilal , Liang Chen , Shi Xiaoxin , Sun Ruyi , Zhang Songlin , Du Guoqiang
Published: July 2020

Background: Histone modification genes (HMs) play potential roles in plant growth and development via influencing gene expression and chromatin structure. However, limited information is available about HMs genes in grapes (Vitis vinifera L.).Results: Here, we described detailed genome-wide identification of HMs gene families in grapevine. We identified 117 HMs genes in grapevine and classified these genes into 11 subfamilies based on conserved domains and phylogenetic relationships with Arabidopsis. We described the genes in terms of their chromosomal locations and exon-intron distribution. Further, we investigated the evolutionary history, gene ontology (GO) analysis, and syntenic relationships between grapes and Arabidopsis. According to results 21% HMs genes are the result of duplication (tandem and segmental) events and all the duplicated genes have negative mode of selection. GO analysis predicted the presence of HMs proteins in cytoplasm, nucleus, and intracellular organelles. According to seed development expression profiling, many HMs grapevine genes were differentially expressed in seeded and seedless cultivars, suggesting their roles in seed development. Moreover, we checked the response of HMs genes against powdery mildew infection at different time points. Results have suggested the involvement of some genes in disease resistance regulation mechanism. Furthermore, the expression profiles of HMs genes were analyzed in response to different plant hormones (Abscisic acid, Jasmonic acid, Salicylic acid, and Ethylene) at different time points. All of the genes showed differential expression against one or more hormones.Conclusion: VvHMs genes might have potential roles in grapevine including seed development, disease resistance, and hormonal signaling pathways. Our study provides first detailed genome-wide identification and expression profiling of HMs genes in grapevine.
Lipid metabolic transcriptome-wide profile and signature of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Jinyou , Li Qiang , Su Zhenyu , Sun Qi , Zhao Yong , Feng Tienan , Jiang Jiayuan , Ma Haitao , Zhang Feng
Published: July 2020

Background: Lung cancer is the cancer with high morbidity and mortality across the globe, and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common histologic subtype. The disorder of lipid metabolism is related to the development of cancer. Analysis of lipid-related transcriptome helps shed light on diagnosis and prognostic biomarkers of LUAD. Methods: In this study, we performed an expression analysis of 1045 lipid metabolism-related genes between LUAD tumors and normal tissues from the TCGA-LUAD cohort. The interaction network of differential expression genes (DEGs) was constructed to identify. The association between hub genes and overall survival (OS) was evaluated and formed a model to predict the prognosis of LUAD using a nomogram, and the model was validated by another cohort (GSE13213). Results: Finally, a total of 217 lipid metabolism-related DEGs were detected in LUAD. They were significantly enriched in glycerophospholipid and steroid metabolism . Then we identified 6 hub genes through network and cytoHubba, including INS , LPL , HPGDS , DGAT1 , UGT1A6 , and CYP2C9 . The high expression of CYP2C9 , UGT1A6 , and INS , whereas low expressions of DGAT1 , HPGDS , and LPL , were associated with worse OS for 719 LUAD patients. Our model found that the high-risk score group had a worse OS, and the validated cohort had the same result. Conclusion: This study constructed a signature of six lipid metabolic genes, which was significantly associated with the diagnosis and prognosis of LUAD patients. The gene signature can be used as a biomarker for LUAD in the term of lipid metabolic.
In vitro propagation of three mosaic disease resistant cassava cultivars
Authors: SESSOU Amitchihoué Franck , Kahia Jane W. , Houngue Jerome Anani , Ateka Elijah Miinda , Dadjo Colombe , Ahanhanzo Corneille
Published: July 2020

Background Cassava is a staple food for over 800 million people globally providing a cheap source of carbohydrate. However, the cultivation of cassava in the country is facing to viral diseases, particularly cassava mosaic disease (CMD) which can cause up to 95% yield losses. With aim to supply farmers demand for clean planting materials, there is need to accelerate the production of the elite cultivars by use of tissue culture in order to cope with the demand. Methods Nodal explants harvested from the greenhouse grown plants were sterilised using different concentrations of a commercial bleach JIK (3.85% NaOCl) and varying time intervals. Microshoots induction was evaluated using thidiazuron (TDZ), benzyl amino purine (BAP), and kinetin. Rooting was evaluated using different auxins (Naphthalene acetic acid NAA and Indole-3-butyricacid IBA). PCR-based SSR and SCAR markers were used to assess the presence of CMD2 gene in the regenerated plantlets. Results The highest (90%) clean explants were obtained when 20% Jik was used for 15 minutes. The best cytokinin for microshoots regeneration was found to be kinetin with optimum concentrations of 5, 10 and 20 µM for Agric-rouge, Atinwewe, and Agblehoundo respectively. Medium without growth regulators was the best for rooting the three cultivars. A survival rate of 100%, 98%, and 98% was recorded in the greenhouse for Agric-rouge, Atinwewe, and Agblehoundo respectively and the plantlets appeared to be morphologically normal. The SSR and SCAR analysis of micropropagated plants showed a profile similar to that of the mother plants indicating that the regenerated plantlets retained the CMD2 gene after passing through in vitro culture. Conclusion The nodal explants was established to be 20% of Jik (3.85% NaOCl) with an exposure time of 15 minutes. Kinetin was proved to be the best cytokinins for microshoot formation with the optimum concentration of 5, 10 and 20µM for Agric-rouge, Atinwewe, and Agblehoundo respectively. The protocol developed during this study will be useful for mass propagation of the elite cassava cultivars.
Electroacupuncture at Governor Vessel improves neurobehavioral function via silencing complexin I
Authors: Xu Yang , Liu Jia , Xu Yang , Xiong Liu-Ling , Li Cui-Yun , Jiang Ya , Wang Yang-Yang , Wang Ting-Hua
Published: July 2020

Governor Vessel electro-acupuncture (GV), as a traditional Chinese medicine, has been proved that it can reduce scar and promote axon regeneration. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Herein, complexin I (CPLX1), as a candidate protein involved in the process of GV treatment on spinal cord contusion (SCC), was found by using protein chip. Therefore, using a CRISPR/Cas9 knockout approach, we silenced CPLX1 to assess its role in the process of GV treatment. Additionally, eIF5A1 promotes translation of CPLX1 with PPG sequence, we attempt to uncover whether eIF5A1 play a role in GV treatment. Indeed, GV can reduce scar and promote axon regeneration after SCC. CPLX1-/+ SCC rats demonstrated that decreased CPLX1 improved the microenvironment of injured area via reducing the components of fibrotic scar and further enhanced the synaptic plasticity, which benefit the regeneration of axons. And eIF5A1 could regulate the expression of CPLX1 in the process of GV treatment. Therefore, GV contributes to axon regeneration and synapse plasticity via eIF5A1 regulating CPLX1 following SCC, providing a convincible mechanism for improving the therapeutic efficacy of GV for SCC.
Economising learning: How nurses maintain competence with limited resources. A grounded theory study exploring Registered Nurses’ use of mobile devices in postgraduate education
Authors: Rees Sharon , Farley Helen , Moloney Clint
Published: July 2020

BackgroundNurses have limited time outside of work for continuing professional development. Consequently, strategies need to be explored to enable them to better maintain their competence. This article describes recent research to ascertain how nurses used mobile technologies to determine if these behaviours could be leveraged for mobile learning. It addresses a gap in the existing literature around how nurses resource their own professional development in the absence of appropriate resourcing in the workplace.MethodsThe Theory of Economising Learning emerged from research employing a classic grounded theory methodology which was conducted with registered nurses from Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and the Northern Territory and postgraduate nursing students at the University of Southern Queensland.ResultsThe Theory of Economising Learning describes how nurses maintain competence with limited resources. Unfavourable staffing levels and a fast-paced workplace mean that nurses rarely prioritise their professional learning while at work. Instead, it requires the nurse to contribute personal resources including time and money.Though the research revealed that nurses were unconcerned about using mobile technologies, they were concerned about maintaining competence with limited resources. To counter this, nurses economised their learning by balancing personal resources against their motivation to maintain competence. The process of economising learning begins and ends with the development of the nurse’s personal curriculum in response to what they identify as being the most significant knowledge deficits at work that jeopardise their competence. A learning opportunity that addresses the knowledge deficit is sought. Nurses balance the opportunity to address the deficit against the cost of personal resources, to decide if they will engage with the opportunity and update their personal curriculum accordingly.ConclusionsIt is suggested that workplaces need to create reasonable expectations within nurses to address knowledge deficits and provide the resources, including time, to allow them to do so without personal cost. It is also necessary for workplaces to moderate the flow of learning opportunities so as not to overwhelm and demotivate the nurses. Currently, nurses use several strategies to optimise their learning using mobile technologies. These could be leveraged in the workplace to help nurses maintain professional competence.
Functional comparison of MERS-coronavirus lineages reveals increased zoonotic potential of the recombinant lineage 5
Authors: Schroeder Simon , Mache Christin , Kleine-Weber Hannah , Muth Doreen , Corman Victor , Fatykhova Diana , Memish Ziad Al , Stanifer Megan , Boulant Steeve , Dijkman Ronald , Richter Anja , Eggeling Stefan , Hocke Andreas , Hippenstiel Stefan , Thiel Volker , Pöhlmann Stefan , Wolff Thorsten , Müller Marcel , Drosten Christian
Published: July 2020

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) can cause severe pneumonia in humans. The virus is enzootic in dromedary camels across the Middle East and Africa. It is acquired through animal contact and undergoes limited onward transmission particularly in hospitals. Because of this initial potential for human-to-human transmission, we monitor the virus for phenotypic changes related to its pandemic potential. Potential phenotypic changes have been suspected since the year 2015, when a novel recombinant clade (MERS-CoV lineage 5) caused large nosocomial outbreaks in Saudi Arabia and South Korea that effectively swept other, hitherto co-circulating viral lineages. To this day, lineage 5 remains the only circulating MERS-CoV lineage on the Arabian Peninsula. In spite of available sequence data, no studies of viral phenotype have been carried out to date. Here we performed a comprehensive in-vitro and ex-vivo comparison of live virus isolates taken in Saudi Arabia immediately before and after the shift toward lineage 5. We characterized seven isolates representing the recombination-parental lineage 3, eight isolates representing parental lineage 4, as well as eight isolates representing lineage 5. Replication of lineage 5 viruses is significantly increased over isolates from parental lineages in cell culture and ex-vivo lung models. Transcriptional profiling by real-time RT-PCR shows that several key immune genes (IFNb1, CCL5, IFNL1) are significantly less induced in lung cells infected with lineage 5 MERS-CoV compared to parental strains. In IFN receptor knock out cells, as well as under chemical inhibition of IFN signalling, the differences in replication level between lineage 5 and parental lineages are reduced, suggesting that phenotypic differences may be determined by IFN antagonism. Concordantly, lineage 5 shows increased resilience against interferon (IFN) pre-treatment of Calu-3 cells and maintains a 10-fold higher replication level under low and high concentrations of IFN. Reduced immune activation combined with enhanced virus replication and IFN resilience may explain the dominance of lineage 5 on the Arabian Peninsula. This phenotypic difference is highly relevant with regard to pandemic potential, and has remained undiscovered in spite of viral sequence surveillance.
Overexpression of AtAHL20 causes delayed flowering in Arabidopsis via repression of FT expression
Authors: Tayengwa Reuben , Sharma-Koirala Pushpa , Pierce Courtney F. , Werner Breanna E , Neff Michael M
Published: July 2020

Background
The 29-member Arabidopsis AHL gene family is classified into three main classes based on nucleotide and protein sequence evolutionary differences. These differences include the presence or absence of introns, type and/or number of conserved AT-hook and PPC domains. AHL gene family members are divided into two phylogenetic clades, Clade-A and Clade-B. A majority of the 29 members remain functionally uncharacterized. Furthermore, the biological significance of the DNA and peptide sequence diversity, observed in the conserved motifs and domains found in the different AHL types, is a subject area that remains largely unexplored.
Results
Transgenic plants overexpressing AtAHL20 flowered later than the wild type. Transcript accumulation analyses showed that 35S:AtAHL20 plants contained reduced FT, TSF, AGL8 and SPL3 mRNA levels. Similarly, overexpression of AtAHL20’s orthologue in Camelina sativa, Arabidopsis’ closely related Brassicaceae family member species, conferred a late-flowering phenotype via suppression of CsFT expression. In addition, 35S:AtAHL20 seedlings exhibited suppressed hypocotyl length and enhanced water stress tolerance. However, overexpression of an aberrant AtAHL20 gene harboring a missense mutation in the AT-hook domain’s highly conserved R-G-R core motif abolished the late-flowering phenotype. Data from targeted yeast-two-hybrid assays showed that AtAHL20 interacted with itself and several other Clade-A Type-I AHLs which have been previously implicated in flowering-time regulation: AtAHL22, AtAHL27 and AtAHL29.
Conclusion
We showed via gain-function analysis that AtAHL20 is a negative regulator of FT expression, as well as other downstream flowering time regulating genes. A similar outcome in Camelina sativa transgenic plants overexpressing CsAHL20 suggest that this is a conserved function. Additionally, overexpression of AtAHL20 resulted in shorter hypocotyls and enhanced drought stress tolerance compared to wild-type plants. Our results demonstrate that AtAHL20 is a negative regulator of transition to flowering and hypocotyl elongation, but a positive regulator of drought stress tolerance.
Complementary feeding patterns of Filipino infants and toddlers lack diversity, especially among children from poor households
Authors: Jacquier Emma F , Angeles-Agdeppa Imelda , Lenighan Yvonne , Toledo Marvin B , Capanzana Mario V
Published: July 2020

Background: Consumption of nutritionally adequate complementary foods is essential for optimal growth and development of infants and toddlers, including those in developing countries. The aim of this study was to describe the food and beverage consumption patterns among 6-23.9 month old Filipino infants and toddlers, by household wealth. Methods: Data from 1087 infants and toddlers from the 2013 National Nutrition Survey were included. Dietary intake data was assessed using a 24Hr recall and population food intakes were stratified into pre-defined wealth categories. Results: Breast milk, infant formula, powdered milk and rice were the most commonly consumed foods and beverages across the age groups. Several differences in complementary feeding by wealth status were observed. Infants from poor households (69%) reported significantly greater consumption of human milk, than those from rich households (42%) who reported a significantly greater consumption of infant/toddler formula (Poor: 22%, Rich: 56%) (P>0.05). A higher percentage of toddlers from rich households consumed protein-containing foods, cookies and cakes. There was a significant difference in vegetable consumption in 12-17.9 month old children (Poor: 17%, Rich: 31%; P=0.021). Human milk and formula were the top contributors to energy in 6.11.9mo and 12-17.9mo children, while rice was the top energy contributor in 18-23.9mo children. Conclusion: Milk and rice were the main dietary components in all Filipino children. However, intakes of a number of nutrients including protein, fat, vitamin B/C/D/E and iron and calcium were lower in children from poor households. Interventions are required to enable caregivers of young Filipino children to provide complementary foods of high nutritional quality, particularly among children from the poor households.
Large-sized artificial photosynthetic cells with a solar-to-formate conversion efficiency of 7.2%
Authors: Kato Naohiko , Mizuno Shintaro , Shiozawa Masahito , Nojiri Natsumi , Kawai Yasuaki , Fukumoto Kazuhiro , Morikawa Takeshi , Takeda Yasuhiko
Published: July 2020

Artificial photosynthesis, including solar-driven electrochemical (EC) reduction of CO2 to fuel, using photovoltaic (PV) cells is a promising CO2 recycling method. However, the scale-up of EC reactors lowers the solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency hSTC) due to large electric resistance of the electrode catalysts and insufficient supply of reactants. We designed a large-sized cell to convert CO2 to formate. It consists of five stacked electrodes (electrically parallel-connected) and six series-connected single-crystalline Si PV cells (area ~1000 cm2). Low-resistivity anodes loaded with IrOx and cathodes loaded with Ru complex polymer on carbon support operate without a membrane between them at a low voltage of 1.90 V. They generate a reaction current of 6.30 A, owing to the homogeneous flow of the CO2-dissolved electrolyte to achieve a sufficient CO2 supply and good match between the PV and EC performances. The cell yields a conversion efficiency of 7.2% and the highest production rate reported for large cells.
Priming programed Mucosal-Associated Invariant T cells protect against systemic or local bacterial infection
Authors: Zhao Zhe , Shi Mai , Zhu Tianyuan , Wang Huimeng , Pediongco Troi , Lim Xin Yi , Meehan Bronwyn , Nelson Adam , Fairlie David , Mak Jeffrey , Eckle Sidonia , Rossjohn Jamie , McCluskey James , Corbett Alexandra , Chen Zhenjun
Published: July 2020

Mucosal-Associated Invariant T (MAIT) cells have potent antibacterial functions. Their protective capacity, in vivo, has been demonstrated in mouse models, particularly of respiratory infections. We now show that during systemic infection of mice with Francisella tularensis Live Vaccine Strain (LVS), MAIT cell expansion was evident in the liver, lungs, kidney, spleen and blood. MAIT cells manifested a polarised Th1-like (termed “MAIT-1”) phenotype and cytokine profile that conferred a critical role in controlling bacterial load. After resolution of the primary infection, the expanded MAIT cells developed to a stable memory-like MAIT-1 cell population, suggesting a basis for vaccination and protection against subsequent challenge. Indeed, a systemic vaccination with synthetic ligand (5-OP-RU) in combination with CpG adjuvant boosted MAIT-1 cells and resulted in enhanced protection against systemic and local infections with F. tularensis and Legionella longbeachae. Our study highlights the potential utility of targeting MAIT cells to combat multiple bacterial pathogens.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Antagonizes Cytotoxicity of Cobalt Nanoparticles by Inhibiting Ferroptosis-like Cell Death
Authors: Liu Yake , Zhu Wenfeng , Ni Dalong , Zhou Zihua , Gu Jinhua , Zhang Wenan , Sun Huanjian , Liu Fan
Published: July 2020

As a main element in the hard metal industry, cobalt is one of the major components of human metal implants. Cobalt-containing implants, especially joint prostheses used for artificial joint replacement, can be corroded due to the complex physiological environment in vivo, producing a large number of nanoscale cobalt particles (Cobalt Nanoparticles, CoNPs). These CoNPs can be first accumulated around the implant to cause adverse local reactions and then enter into the blood vessels followed by reaching to the liver, heart, brain, kidney, and other organs through systematic circulation, which leads to multi-system toxicity symptoms. To ensure the long-term existence of cobalt-containing implants in the body, it is urgently required to find out a safe and effective detoxification drug. Herein, we have demonstrated that CoNPs could induce the ferroptosis-like cell death through the enhancement of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, cytoplasmic Fe2+ level, lipid peroxidation and consumption of reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as inhibition of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) activity. Importantly, α-lipoic acid (ALA), a natural antioxidant with the capability to scavenge free radicals and chelate toxic metals, was found to efficiently alleviate the adverse effects of CoNPs. The present study illustrates a new mechanism of CoNPs mediated by ferroptosis-like cytotoxicity and discloses an effective method for the detoxification of CoNPs by employing the natural antioxidant of ALA, providing a basis for further in vivo detoxification study.
Core formation and magma ocean outgassing set planetary N-S-C ratios
Authors: Jackson Colin , Cottrell Elizabeth , Du Zhixue , Bennett Neil , Fei Yingwei
Published: July 2020

Earth’s volatile elements cannot be accounted for as mixtures of different chondrites, despite their clear chondritic heritage. Early-acting, but as yet unidentified, processes apparently fractionated volatile elements now contained by planets. Here we test the hypothesis that planetary-scale differentiation, namely core formation and primordial atmosphere degassing, set Earth’s distribution of N, S, and C. To this end, we report new metal-silicate partitioning experiments on N up to 26 GPa and 3400 K; the highest pressure and temperatures conditions yet explored. Our results highlight a strong, positive effect of pressure on nitrogen partitioning into cores. We apply our new experiments with literature data for S and C partitioning to a model that couples core formation with degassing into the primordial atmosphere, to demonstrate that volatile elements ratios for Earth, and potentially Mars and Venus, can be set by primordial differentiation under conditions that also satisfy their moderately siderophile element budgets.
Correlation of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater with COVID-19 disease burden in sewersheds
Authors: Weidhaas Jennifer , Aanderud Zachary , Roper D , VanDerslice James , Gaddis Erica , Ostermiller Jeffrey , Hoffman Ken , Jamal Rubayat , Heck Philip , Zhang Yue , Torgersen Kevin , Laan Jacob Vander , LaCross Nathan
Published: July 2020

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), is shed in feces and the virus RNA is detectable in wastewater. A nine-week wastewater epidemiology study of ten wastewater facilities, serving 39% of the state of Utah or 1.26M individuals was conducted in April and May of 2020. COVID-19 cases were tabulated from within each sewershed boundary by public health partners. The virus was detectable in 61% of 126 unique wastewater samples. Urban sewersheds serving >100,000 individuals and tourist communities had higher detection frequencies of the virus RNA. An outbreak of COVID-19 across two communities correlated with an increase in SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater, while a decline in COVID-19 case counts preceded a decline in SARS-CoV-2 RNA. These results demonstrate the utility of wastewater epidemiology to assist in public health responses to COVID-19.
Clinical characteristics and outcome of critically ill COVID-19 patients with Acute Kidney Injury: A single centre cohort study
Authors: Lowe Richard , Ferrari Matteo , Nasim-Mohi Myra , Jackson Alexander , Meacham Ryan , Veighey Kristin , Cusack Rebecca , Richardson Dominic , Grocott Michael , Levett Denny , Dushianthan Ahilanandan
Published: July 2020

BackgroundAcute kidney injury (AKI) is a common manifestation among patients critically ill with SARS-CoV-2 infection (Coronavirus 2019) and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The pathophysiology of renal failure in this context is not fully understood, but likely to be multifactorial. The intensive care unit outcomes of patients following COVID-19 acute critical illness with associated AKI have not been fully explored. We conducted a cohort study to investigate the risk factors for acute kidney injury in patients admitted to and intensive care unit with COVID-19, its incidence and associated outcomes.MethodsWe reviewed the medical records of all patients admitted to our adult intensive care unit suffering from SARS-CoV-2 infection from 3rd March 2020 until 10th May 2020. Acute kidney injury was defined using the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcome (KDIGO) criteria. The outcome analysis was assessed up to date as 15th of June 2020.ResultsA total of 81 patients admitted during this period. All patients had acute hypoxic respiratory failure and needed either noninvasive or invasive mechanical ventilatory support. Thirty-six patients (44%) had evidence of AKI (Stage I-33%, Stage II-22%, Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT)-44%). All patients with AKI stage III had RRT. Age, diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression, lymphopenia, high D-Dimer levels, increased APACHE II and SOFA scores, mechanical ventilation and use of inotropic or vasopressor support were significantly associated with AKI. The peak AKI was at day 4 and mean duration of RRT was 9 days. The mortality was 25% for the AKI group compared to 7% in those without AKI. Among those received RRT and survived their illness, the renal function recovery is complete and back to baseline in 92% of patients. Conclusion Acute kidney injury and renal replacement therapy is common in critically ill patients presenting with COVID-19. It is associated with increased severity of illness on admission to ICU, increased mortality and prolonged ICU and hospital length of stay.
Rejection of Containment Policy in the Management of COVID-19 in Kenyan Slums: Is Social Geometry an Option?
Authors: Onditi Francis , Obimbo Moses M. , Kinyanjui Samson M. , Nyadera Israel N.
Published: July 2020

This paper contests the ‘massification’ policy of ‘containment’ in the management of pandemics (COVID-19) in Kenya’s densely populated areas. The paper proposes a typological construct of social geometry for analyzing and designing public health intervention (PHI) in areas with such unique geographies. We contrast this approach with the two most widespread forms of social control: social distancing and spatial distancing. Our central claim is that the policy of ‘containment’ fails to recognize the socio-cultural, economic and political complexities of the urban slum residents. This unmitigated policy predisposes the residents to risks of heightened transmission of the pandemic. Social geometry model, however, has the potential of informing the redesign of an alternative PHI that is compatible with the unique pattern of livelihood in the informal settlement. Based on the residents’ pattern of livelihood (which exhibits a pendulum-like swings), and their geometry of life, we coin a thinking framework; ‘social pendulum.’ Our conclusion revisits the reliability and validity criteria for the new framework, and offers some direction for future research.
MiR-4310 Induced by SP1 targets PTEN to Promote Glioma Progression
Authors: Zhiyong Wu , Jie Luo , Tengyue Huang , Renhui Yi , Shengfeng Ding , Cheng Xie , An'qi Xu , Yu Zeng , Xizhao Wang , Ye Song , Hao Long
Published: July 2020

Background: miRNAs have been reported to be involved in multiple biological processes of gliomas. Here, we aimed to analyze miR-4310 and its correlation genes involved in the tumor progression of human glioma.Methods: miR-4310 expression levels were examined in glioma and non-tumor brain (NB) tissues. The molecular mechanisms of miR-4310 expression and its effects on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were explored by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) , Transwell chamber, Boyden chamber, and western blot analyses, as well as in vivo tumorigenesis in nude mice. The relationships among miR-4310, SP1, and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) were explored by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), agarose gel electrophoresis, electrophoresis mobility shift (EMSA), and dual luciferase reporter gene assays. Results: miR-4310 expression was upregulated in glioma tissues compared to NB. Overexpressed miR-4310 promoted glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and tumorigenesis in vivo . Inhibition of miR-4310 was sufficient to reverse these results. Mechanistic analyses revealed that miR-4310 promoted glioma progression through the PI3K/AKT pathway by targeting PTEN. Additionally, SP1 induced the expression of miR-4310 by binding to its promoter region. Conclusion: miR-4310 promotes the progression of glioma by targeting PTEN and activating the PI3K/AKT pathway meanwhile the expression of miR-4310 is induced by SP1.
Vitamin D Supplementation during Pregnancy- A Double Blinded Randomized, Controlled, Dose-Comparison, Trial in Pakistan
Authors: Nausheen Sidrah , Shaikh Lumaan , Habib Atif , Tabassum Farhana , Rizvi Arjumand , Bhura Maria , Kureishy Sumra , Shaheen Fariha , Raza Shahmim , Soofi Sajid Bashir
Published: July 2020

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy is a public health problem in Pakistan, and prevalent among most women of reproductive age in the country. Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy is suggested to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes and prevent vitamin D deficiency in both the mother and her newborn. However, there remains uncertainty surrounding the appropriate and safe dose for vitamin D supplementation in pregnant women who experience deficiency. We conducted a double-blinded, randomized, controlled, dose-comparison trial aimed to evaluate the relationship between different doses of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes among women in a maternity hospital of the Aga Khan University (AKU) in Karachi, Pakistan. Pregnant women (n=350) in their first trimester were recruited and randomized to three treatment groups of vitamin D supplementation: 4,000 IU/day (Group A; n=120), 2,000 IU/day (Group B; n=115), or 400 IU/day (Group C – control; n=115). Deficiency in serum vitamin D (serum 25OHD <20ng/mL) at baseline was prevalent in more than 95% of women in each group. Participants in group A had the lowest vitamin D deficiency at endline and in newborns (endline: 75.9%; neonatal: 64.9%), followed by group B (endline: 84.9%; neonatal: 73.7%) and then the control group (endline: 90.2%; neonatal: 91.8%). Vitamin D deficiency was significantly lower in group A than group C (p=0.006) for women at endline, and lower in both group A and group B than the control group (p=0.001) in neonates. There were no adverse events attributable to vitamin D supplementation in all groups. Our study concluded that vitamin D supplementation with 4000 IU/day is safe and effective in reducing the risk of maternal and neonatal vitamin D deficiency.
Solvents Adjusted Pure Phase CoCO3 as Anodes for High Cycle Stability
Authors: Liu Liming , Huang X.X. , Wei Zengyan , Duan Xiaoming , Zhong Bo , Xia Long , Zhang Tao , Wang Huatao , Jia Dechang , Zhou Yu , Zhang Rui
Published: July 2020

CoCO3 with high theoretical capacity has been considered as a candidate anode for the next generation of lithium-ion batteries. However, the electrochemical characteristics of CoCO3 itself, especially the cycle stability under high current density, hindering its application. Herein, pure phase CoCO3 particles with different particle and pore sizes were prepared by adjusting the solvents. CoCO3 synthesized with diethylene glycol (DG-CC) as the reaction solvent shows the best electrochemical performance for the particle size of about 0.85 µm, which because the small primary particle size within and the mesopores maintain the structural stability. A high specific capacity of after 1000 cycles was achieved, and an excellent capacity retention was presented. The capacity provided by different electrochemical reactions and the impedance of DG-CC under different cycles were further compared. Those results provide an important reference for the structural design and stable cycle performance of pure CoCO3.
Sheep Nemabiome Diversity and Its Response to Anthelmintic Treatment in Swedish Sheep Herds
Authors: Halvarsson Peter , Höglund Johan
Published: July 2020

Background: A novel way to study the species composition and diversity of nematode parasites in livestock is to perform deep sequencing on composite samples containing a mixture of different species. Herein we describe for the first-time the nematode community structure (nemabiome) inhabiting Swedish sheep and how these are/were affected by host age and recent anthelmintic treatments. Methods: A total of 158 larval cultures were collected (n=35 in 2007 and n=126 in 2014-2016) from groups of sheep on 61 commercial farms in the south-central part of country were most animals are grazed. Among the samples, 2 x 44 (56%) were paired collected from the same groups pre- and post-treatment with macrocyclic lactones, benzimidazoles or levamisole. The sequences were analyzed for their nemabiome using the PacBio platform followed by bioinformatic sequence analysis with SCATA. Species richness and diversity were calculated and analyzed in R.Results: Nematode ITS2 sequences were found in all samples except two, despite that the fecal egg counts were below the McMaster threshold in 20 samples. Sequencing yielded on average 1,011 sequences per sample. Totally 26 operational taxonomical units (OTU) among which 18 (69%) had ≥99 % identity to sequences in the NCBI database were recognized. The OTUs found represented nematode species among which 10 are commonly associated with sheep. Multiple species were identified in all pre anthelmintic treatment samples. No effects on nematode diversity were found in relation to host age. On the other hand, recent anthelmintic treatment lowered species richness, especially after use of IVM and ABZ. Interestingly, despite zero egg count after use of levamisole, these samples still contained nematode DNA and especially H. contortus. Conclusions: Our findings provide evidence for that nemabiome analysis combined with diversity index analysis provide a sensitive and objective methodology in the study of the efficacy of anthelmintic treatment.
Association between Prior Calcium Channel Blocker use and Mortality in Septic Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Ding Xianfei , Cui Yuqing , Zhu Yanhui , Liang Huoyan , Wang Dong , Li Lifeng , Kan Quancheng , Wang Lexin , Sun Tongwen
Published: July 2020

Background: To comprehensively review the literature and synthesize evidence concerning the relationship between preadmission calcium channel blocker (CCB) use and mortality in patients with sepsis.Methods: The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched from their inception to April 9, 2020. Cohort studies that related to prior CCB use in patients with sepsis were analysed. Pairs of reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. Two primary outcomes related to mortality, namely, 30-day mortality and 90-day mortality, were analysed; heterogeneity between studies was assessed using I2 and was considered moderate if I2 was equivalent to 50–75% and high if I2 ≥ 75%. Fixed and random-effects models were used to calculate the pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The quality of outcomes was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Sensitivity analyses were performed to examine the robustness of the results.Results: 552 potentially relevant studies were identified, and the full texts of 25 articles were reviewed. Ultimately, five cohort studies involving 280,982 patients were confirmed to have a low risk of bias and were included. Preadmission CCB use was associated with a significantly lower 30-day mortality in septic shock (OR, 0.61 [0.38-0.97]; P = 0.035; I2 = 62.4%), not in sepsis (OR, 0.83 [0.66-1.04]; P = 0.103; I2 = 95.4%). Moreover, prior CCB use could significantly reduce 30-day mortality in sepsis (OR, 0.90 [0.85-0.95]; P < 0.001; I2 = 31.9%). Conclusions: This meta-analysis suggests that preadmission CCB use is significantly associated with improving long-term prognosis of sepsis, and also short-term survival of septic shock patients. This finding may provide an attractive direction for sepsis management.
Differential gene expression in skin RNA of horses affected with degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis
Authors: Haythorn Abigail , Young Madeline , Stanton James , Zhang Jian , Mueller P.O.E. , Halper Jaroslava
Published: July 2020

Background
Equine Degenerative Suspensory Desmitis (DSLD) is a systemic connective tissue disorder first identified in Peruvian Paso horses, but afflicting other horse breeds as well. Inappropriate accumulation of proteoglycans in connective tissues, most prominently in tendons and ligaments leads to lameness and pain. It is largely unknown what drives the overproduction of proteoglycans, but our previous data suggest involvement of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) family, impacting synthesis of proteoglycans. To identify potential players in pathogenesis of DSLD a new approach utilizing next generation sequencing was undertaken.
Methods
Next generation sequencing was performed using RNA extracted from skin biopsies of six control Peruvian Pasos and six horses with DSLD (4 Peruvian Pasos and 2 Warmbloods). The CuffDiff result sets were validated with algorithms used to run them. This was based on the determined False Discovery Rates derived from the P-values adjusted for multiple testing for any given result.
Results
Bioinformatics analysis of transcriptomes revealed differential expression of over 1500 genes, including increased expression of genes for several growth factors (BMP2, FGF5, CTGF, members of the EGF family), of mediators of signaling (Fos, Myc, MAPK system), and keratins. Two genes encoding for enzymes involved in synthesis of hyaluronan were overexpressed. Gene expression was decreased for protein cores of many proteoglycans, several growth factors, most collagens and many peptides with immune function.
Conclusions
The overexpression of BMP2 correlates well with our previous data. However, the decrease in expression of numerous proteoglycans was unexpected. A mutation in a gene of a less characterized proteoglycan and/or glycosyltransferase with subsequent increased production of hyaluronan and/or a proteoglycan(s) undetected in our study could account for the systemic proteoglycan deposition. Decreased collagen gene expression indicates abnormal connective tissue metabolism. The increased expression of keratin genes and FGF5 supports reports of skin abnormalities in DSLD. Underexpression of immune function genes corresponds with lack of inflammation in DSLD tissues. Finally, though the proteoglycan and/or glycosaminoglycan abundant in DSLD has not been identified, we validated our previous data, including overexpression of BMP2, and systemic nature of DSLD due to disturbed metabolism of the extracellular matrix.
Medical status of patients presenting for treatment at an Australian dental institute: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Frydrych Agnieszka Monika , Parsons Richard , Kujan Omar
Published: July 2020

Background: Individuals seeking dental treatment often present with medical conditions which may affect dental treatment provision. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of medical conditions and medication use among individuals attending dental clinics at a Western Australian tertiary institution.Methods: This observational study examined the general demographics, medical and social histories of 873 subjects presenting for a general dental examination at a Western Australian Tertiary Institution between March 2018 and February 2019. Individual recruited were those presenting to the clinics either as new patients to the Centre or returning patients after an extended period of absence.Results: Presence of a medical condition was reported by 86% of the participants, with males more commonly affected (p=0.0448). Medication use was noted by 80% of the participants. Cardiovascular disease (37.9%), allergy (32.3%), mental health disorders (29.4%), musculoskeletal (23.0%), endocrine (22.4%) and respiratory disease (17.8%) were the most common conditions identified. Women were significantly more likely to report allergy (p=0.0002) or a mental health condition (p=0.0368). Conclusions: Medical comorbidities are common among individuals presenting for student dental treatment in Western Australia, highlighting the importance of knowledge and teaching of internal medicine and its application to the dental setting.
Lactobacillus Fermentum CQPC07 Attenuates Obesity, Inflammation and Dyslipidemia by Modulating the Antioxidant Capacity and Lipid Metabolism in High-fat-diet-induced Obese Mice
Authors: Wu Ya , Tan Fang , Zhou Xianrong , Mu Jianfei , Zhao Xin
Published: July 2020

Backgroud:
Obesity is an epidemic disease in the world, the treatment and prevention of obesity methods have gained great attention. Lactobacillus is the main member of probiotics, and the physiological activity of it is specific to different strains. This study systematically explored the anti-obesity effect and possible mechanism of Lactobacillus fermentum CQPC07 (LF-CQPC07), which was isolated from pickled vegetables.
Results
LF-CQPC07 effectively controlled the weight gain of mice caused by a high-fat diet. The results of pathological sections indicated that LF-CQPC07 alleviated hepatocyte damage and fat accumulation in adipocytes. The detection of biochemical indictors revealed that LF-CQPC07 decreased the levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG), and increased the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Additionally, LF-CQPC07 caused the decrease in the amounts of inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and increased the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-4. LF-CQPC07 also decreased the amounts of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Confirmed by qPCR, LF-CQPC07 enhanced the mRNA expression of catalase (CAT), gamma glutamylcysteine synthetase 1 (GSH1), copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1), manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). It also increased the mRNA expression levels of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α), lipoprotein lipase (LPL), and cholesterol 7 alpha hydroxylase (CYP7A1), and decreased that of PPAR-γ and CCAAT/enhances binding protein alpha (C/EBP-α) in the liver of mice.
Conclusion
this research confirmed that LF-CQPC07 is capable of ameliorating obesity, improving hyperlipemia, and alleviating chronic low-grade inflammation and liver injury accompanied with obesity. Its mechanism may be the regulation of antioxidant capacity and lipid metabolism. Therefore, LF-CQPC07 has enormous potential to serve as a potential probiotic for the prevention or treatment of obesity.