bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of Nucleotide Composition in the SARS-CoV-2 Lineage: Implications for Vaccine Design
Authors: Subramanian Sankar
Published: June 2020

The worldwide outbreak of a novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 has caused a pandemic of respiratory disease. Due to this emergency, researchers around the globe have been investigating the evolution of the genome of SARS-CoV-2 in order to design vaccines. Here I examined the evolution of GC content of SARS-CoV-2 by comparing the genomes of the members of the group Betacoronavirus. The results of this investigation revealed a highly significant positive correlation between the GC contents of betacoronaviruses and their divergence from SARS-CoV-2. The betacoronaviruses that are distantly related to SARS-CoV-2 have much higher GC contents than the latter. Conversely, the closely related ones have low GC contents, which are only slightly higher than that of SARS-CoV-2. This suggests a systematic reduction in the GC content in the SARS-CoV-2 lineage over time. The declining trend in this lineage predicts a much-reduced GC content in the coronaviruses that will descend/evolve from SARS-CoV-2 in the future. Due to the three consecutive outbreaks (MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2) caused by the members of the SARS-CoV-2, the scientific community is emphasizing the need for universal vaccines that are effective across many strains including those, that will inevitably emerge in the near future. The reduction in GC contents implies an increase in the rate of GC→AT mutations than that the mutational changes in the reverse direction. Therefore, understanding the evolution of base composition and mutational patterns of SARS-CoV-2 could be useful in designing broad-spectrum vaccines that could identify and neutralize the present and future strains of this virus.
Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Typhoid Fever in Children Attending “Deo Gratias” Hospital in Douala, Littoral Region
Authors: Exodus Akwa Teh , Simone Nguimbous
Published: June 2020

Typhoid fever is a communicable disease transmitted by the bacteria Salmonella typhi, related to serotype paratyphi A, B and C. The disease is of a significant health concern in most developing countries especially Cameroon. Objectives: The study aimed at determining the prevalence and associated risk factors of typhoid fever in children ( 0-18 years) attending the “Deo Gratias” hospital in Douala. Method: A hospital base cross sectional study from August to September 2018 was carried out in patients’ age 0-18 years suffering from typhoid fever at the Deo gratias Catholic hospital. Widal slide agglutination test was the diagnostic test used. Positive tested patients were administered questionnaires to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitude and practice toward the disease, as well as their self-management abilities. Data obtained from respondents was analysed by descriptive statistics. One-way ANOVA and means comparison using Tukey’s test (α = 0.05) was performed to check whether the population of respondents differed significantly across risk factor practices. Results were finally presented on bar charts, tables and pie chart. Results: Typhoid fever was more prevalent in females (52.3%) than in males (47.7%), with a high proportion in the ages 5-9 years (38.6%). A significant difference was observed in population of respondents across risk factor practices. Conclusion: Water quality have a great impact on the burden of typhoid fever among children. The identification of risk factors associated to the disease is of great importance in the development of rational control strategies of the disease.
Is Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF) a Missing Link for Elucidating the Mechanism of Action of the Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and Explaining the Side Effects-Complications of COVID-19 Disease?
Authors: Demopoulos Constantinos A
Published: June 2020

Purpose of this article is to project from the point of view of the scientific data concerning PAF and as a new approach by involving PAF, in order to contribute to clarification and proposal a possible mechanism of action of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and to give a possible explanation for its observed side effects-complications of Covid-19 disease. The article is not intended to suggest any specific drugs, but clarifying the mechanism is the first step in illuminating the direction of prescribing the targets of medication that may be appropriate for the prevention, treatment, and cure of Covid-19 disease. More specifically, the purpose of this article is to provide unequivocal evidence indicating that: 1 It would not be unexpected for PAFR to participate in the entry of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 into the cell. 2 There is interdependence and relationship of the receptors ACER and PAFR, which means the involvement of PAF in the processes related to coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 as well as to its effects exercised by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. 3 The receptors ACER, PAFR and TLRs are also involved in inflammation as well as in virus binding to stabilize and enter into the cell, and so they are "communicating vessels" with PAF being " a missing link" 4 Consequently there is a correlations of COVID-19 disease manifestations and biological characteristics with those caused by PAF, which shows the involvement of PAF in COVID-19 disease.
Data Driven Solutions and Discoveries in Mechanics Using Physics Informed Neural Network
Authors: Zhang Qi , Chen Yilin , Yang Ziyi
Published: June 2020

Deep learning has achieved remarkable success in diverse computer science applications, however, its use in other traditional engineering fields has emerged only recently. In this project, we solved several mechanics problems governed by differential equations, using physics informed neural networks (PINN). The PINN embeds the differential equations into the loss of the neural network using automatic differentiation. We present our developments in the context of solving two main classes of problems: data-driven solutions and data-driven discoveries, and we compare the results with either analytical solutions or numerical solutions using the finite element method. The remarkable achievements of the PINN model shown in this report suggest the bright prospect of the physics-informed surrogate models that are fully differentiable with respect to all input coordinates and free parameters. More broadly, this study shows that PINN provides an attractive alternative to solve traditional engineering problems.
Pulse Therapy with Corticosteroids and Intravenous Immunoglobulin in the Management of Severe Tocilizumab-Resistant COVID-19: A Report of Three Clinical Cases
Authors: Sheianov Mikhail V. , Udalov Yurii D. , Ochkin Sergei S. , Bashkov Andrei N. , Shikunov Dmitrii N. , Netrebina Aleksandra P. , Kryntsilov Artem I. , Ozerov Aleksandr E. , Samoilov Aleksandr S.
Published: June 2020

Three patients with severe life-threatening COVID-19 who failed to achieve substantial improvement on tocilizumab, received pulse therapy with corticosteroids (methylprednisolone, 1000 mg/day IV for three consecutive days) and intravenous immunoglobulin (20 g/day IV). This was associated with a prompt resolution of respiratory failure, elimination of cytokine release syndrome, and reversal of pulmonary CT changes. The treatment was generally safe and well tolerated. There was no evidence of protracted persistence of the virus in the patients who received pulse therapy. Randomized controlled trials are necessary to specify the efficacy and safety of high-dose methylprednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment of severe life-threatening COVID-19 separately or in combination.
ctDNA as a Cancer Biomarker: A Broad Overview
Authors: Pessoa Luciana Santos , Heringer Manoela , Ferrer Valéria Pereira
Published: June 2020

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in fluids has gained attention because ctDNA seems to identify tumor-specific abnormalities, which could be used for diagnosis, follow-up of treatment, and prognosis: the so-called liquid biopsy. Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive approach and presents the sum of ctDNA from primary and secondary tumor sites. It has been possible not only to quantify the amount of ctDNA but also to identify (epi)genetic changes. Specific mutations in genes have been identified in the plasma of patients with several types of cancer, which highlights ctDNA as a possible cancer biomarker. However, achieving detectable concentrations of ctDNA in body fluids is not an easy task. ctDNA fragments present a short half-life, and there are no cut-off values to discriminate high and low ctDNA concentrations. Here, we discuss the use of ctDNA as a cancer biomarker, the main methodologies, the inherent difficulties, and the clinical predictive value of ctDNA.
Improving Life Habits through Mindfulness in University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Soriano Encarnación , Amutio Alberto , Franco Clemente , Mañas Israel
Published: June 2020

The present study explored the effects of a Second-generation mindfulness-based intervention known as Flow Meditation (Meditación-Fluir) in the improvement of life habits. A sample of university students (n = 51) in Spain were randomly assigned to a seven-week mindfulness treatment or a waiting list control group. Results showed that compared to the control group, individuals in the mindfulness group demonstrated significant improvements across all outcome measures, including healthy eating habits (balanced diet, intake rate, snacking between meals, decrease in consumption by emotional states negative, increased consumption by negative emotional states, amount of consumption, meal times, consumption of low-fat products), tobacco, alcohol and cannabis consumption, and resting habits. There were differences between males and females in some of these variables and a better effect of the treatment was evident in the females of the experimental group as compared to males. The Flow Meditation program shows promise for fostering healthy life habits, thus decreasing behaviors related to maladaptive eating, tobacco, alcohol and drug consumption, as well as negative resting habits, in university students. This mindfulness program can significantly contribute in the treatment of eating disorders and addictions, wherein negative emotional states and impulsivity are central features of the condition.
Cultivating Quality Awareness in Corona Times
Authors: Timmerman Guus , Baart Andries , den Bakker Jan
Published: June 2020

The Covid-19 pandemic is a tragedy for those who have been hard hit worldwide. At the same time, it is also a test of concepts and practices of what good care is and requires, and how quality of care can be accounted for. In this paper we put our Care-Ethical Model of Quality (CEMQ) to the test. Instead of thinking about care in healthcare and social welfare as a set of separate care acts, we think about care as a complex practice of relational caring, crossed by other practices. Instead of thinking about professional caregivers as functionaries obeying external rules, we think about them as practically wise professionals. Instead of thinking about developing external quality criteria and systems, we think about cultivating (self-)reflective quality awareness. Instead of abstracting from societal forces that make care possible but also limit it, we acknowledge them and find ways to deal with them. Based on these critical insights, the CEMQ model can be helpful to describe, interrogate, evaluate, and improve existing care practices. It has four entries: (i) the care receiver considered from their humanness, (ii) the caregiver considered from their solicitude, (iii) the care facility considered from its habitability and (iv) the societal, institutional and scholarly context considered from the perspective of the good life, justice and decency. The crux is enabling all these different entries with all their different aspects to be taken into account. In Corona times this turns out to be more crucial than ever.
Event-Related Potential to Conscious and Nonconscious Emotional Face Perception in Females with Autistic-Like Traits
Authors: De Pascalis Vilfredo , Cirillo Giuliana , Vecchio Arianna , Ciorciari Joseph
Published: June 2020

This study explored the electrocortical correlates of conscious and nonconscious perceptions of emotionally laden faces in neurotypical adult women with varying levels of autistic-like traits (Autism Spectrum Quotient - AQ). Event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded during the viewing of backward-masked images for happy, neutral, and sad faces presented either below (16 ms - subliminal) or above the level of visual conscious awareness (167 ms - supraliminal). Sad compared to happy faces elicited larger frontal-central N1, N2, and occipital P3 waves. We observed larger N1 amplitudes to sad faces than to happy and neutral faces in High-AQ (but not Low-AQ) scorers. Additionally, High-AQ scorers had a relatively larger P3 at the occipital region to sad faces. Regardless of the AQ score, subliminal perceived emotional faces elicited shorter N1, N2, and P3 latencies than supraliminal faces. Happy and sad faces had shorter N170 latency in the supraliminal than subliminal condition. High-AQ participants had a longer N1 latency over the occipital region than Low-AQ ones. In Low-AQ individuals (but not in High-AQ ones), emotional recognition with female faces produced a longer N170 latency than with male faces. N4 latency was shorter to female faces than male faces. These findings are discussed in view of their clinical implications and extension to autism.
Plasma Channel Extension by Femtosecond Laser Filamentation with a Circular Aperture Quartz Plate
Authors: Li Yao , Zhang Ze-liang , Song Hai-ying , Liu Xun , Li Wei , Liu Shi-bing
Published: June 2020

We propose a new approach of extending the laser filament plasma channel. By adding a circular aperture quartz plate before the focusing lens, the extension of the plasma channel is doubled. The effects of different diameters, thicknesses of the circular aperture quartz plate and different pulse energies on the length of the plasma channel were investigated. The experimental results show that the thickness of the quartz plate and the depth of the hole have little effects on the plasma channel of the filament, and the diameter of the hole in the center of the quartz plate has a significant effect on the length of the optical filament. The moving-focus model is used to explain the extension of the optical filament.
COVID-19 Serological Tests: How Well Do They Actually Perform?
Authors: Ghaffari Abdi , Meurant Robyn , Ardakani Ali
Published: June 2020

In only a few months after initial discovery in Wuhan, China, SARS-CoV-2 and the associated COVID-19 disease has become a global pandemic causing significant mortality and morbidity. In the absence of vaccines and effective therapeutics, reliable serological testing can be a key element of public health policy to control further spread of the disease and gradually ease quarantine measures. However, prior to launch of large-scale seroprevalence studies to assess herd immunity, it is critical to understand the limits and potential of current SARS-CoV-2 serological tests on the market. In this study, we provide an overview of serological testing and conduct a systematic review of independent evaluations of SARS-CoV-2 serological tests performance. Our findings show significant variability in the accuracy of marketed tests and highlight several lab-based and point-of-care rapid diagnostic tests with high performance level in detecting SRAS-CoV-2 specific antibodies. The findings of this review highlight the need for ongoing independent evaluations of commercialized COVID-19 diagnostic tests.
Expression of Stress-Mediating Genes Is Increased in Term Placentas of Women with Chronic Self-Perceived Anxiety and Depression
Authors: Martinez Cristina A. , Marteinsdottir Ina , Josefsson Ann , Sydsjo Gunilla , Theodorsson Elvar , Rodriguez-Martinez Heriberto
Published: June 2020

Anxiety, chronical stress and depression during pregnancy are considered to affect the offspring, presumably through placental dysregulation. We have studied the term placentae of pregnancies clinically monitored with the Beck’s Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). A cutoff threshold for BAI/EPDS of 10 classed patients into an Index group (>10, n=23) and a Control group (<10, n=23). Cortisol concentrations in hair (HCC) were periodically monitored throughout pregnancy and delivery. Expression differences of main glucocorticoid pathway genes: i.e. corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD11B2), glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1), as well as other key stress biomarkers (Arginine Vasopressin, AVP and O-GlcNAc transferase, OGT) were explored in medial placentae using real-time qPCR and western blotting. Moreover, gene expression changes were considered for their association with HCC, offspring, gender and birthweight. A significant dysregulation of gene expression for CRH, AVP and HSD11B2 genes was seen in the Index group, compared to controls, while OGT and NR3C1 expression remained similar between groups. Placental gene expression of the stress-modulating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD11B2) was related to both hair cortisol levels (Rho= 0.54; p<0.01) and the sex of the newborn in pregnancies perceived as stressful (Index, p<0.05). Gene expression of CRH correlated with both AVP (Rho= 0.79; p<0.001) and HSD11B2 (Rho= 0.45; p<0.03), and also between AVP with both HSD11B2 (Rho= 0.6; p<0.005) and NR3C1 (Rho= 0.56; p<0.03) in the Control group but not in the Index group; suggesting a possible loss of interaction in the mechanisms of action of these genes under stress circumstances during pregnancy.
Sand Screen with Check-Valve Inflow Control Devices
Authors: Dikshit Ashutosh , Kumar Amrendra , Anikanov Evgeny , Petukhov Pavel , Rudic Aleksandar , Woiceshyn Glenn , Gadiyar Bala , Parlar Mehmet , Jurgensen Camilo
Published: June 2020

Sand control screens are installed with an internal string (wash pipe) as required which, among other functions, provides a circulation path. In long horizontal wells, running a wash pipe consumes considerable rig time and may limit the ability to reach target depth. In cases in which fluid losses are experienced after screen installation, isolating the open hole with a fluid-loss control valve can be prolonged. This paper describes a wash-pipe-free solution for screen installation using a check-valve inflow control device (CV-ICD).

ICD screens are commonly used to delay/restrict the influx of unwanted fluids such as gas or water. The wash-pipe-free solution integrates a check valve with the ICD to prevent outflow through the screen during circulation and allows inflow through the screen when placed on production. This solution uses a check ball that seals against the ICD during circulation but falls back on a porous retainer plate during production. The check ball and retainer plate can be dissolved by spotting a reactive fluid inside the screen or made to erode over time with production.

Laboratory testing yielded the following results: the ICD with the check ball was shown to seal up to 5,000 psi; the check ball and retainer plate can be dissolved by a reactive fluid, which can be tailored to bottomhole temperature and the required time of dissolution; and the pressure activation test demonstrated that the maximum differential pressure to seat the ball was less than 5 psi.

This CV-ICD solution has been applied worldwide in more than 35 wells, most of which were targeted to avoid running a wash pipe. However, in two wells the technology was successfully used to set openhole packers with a 5,000-psi setting pressure. In this paper, we present the wash-pipe-free ICD screen installation with a dissolvable check valve and the capability of setting a hydraulic packer without a wash pipe or intervention in the open hole. The novel contribution presented herein is the ability to integrate a ball and cage to existing nozzle-based ICDs by using dissolvable material to achieve the preceding results in this application.
A Novel Method for Diagnosis of Sucker-Rod Pumping Systems Based on the Polished-Rod Load Vibration in Vertical Wells
Authors: Yin JiaoJian , Sun Dong , Yang Yousheng
Published: June 2020

The pump dynamometer card is a direct reflection of the operating conditions of the downhole pump, which is important for the diagnosis of sucker-rod pumping systems. In this paper, we propose a novel diagnostic method based on the estimation of the parameters from the polished-rod load vibration signal of sucker-rod pumping systems in a vertical well. In this study, we deduce a new analytic solution of the 1D wave equation of the sucker-rod string, which can be used for the predictive and diagnostic analyses. The relationship between the polished-rod load vibration and the pump equivalent impulse load based on the analytic solution is studied, and the diagnostic parameter estimating method is proposed. Therefore, the pump dynamometer card calculated method based on the surface dynamometer card is realized. This study shows that the method is efficient.
Application of Locality Preserving Projection-Based Unsupervised Learning in Predicting the Oil Production for Low-Permeability Reservoirs
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Hu Jinghong , Zhang Qi
Published: June 2020

Predicting well production in unconventional reservoirs has attracted much attention in recent years. However, it is still a challenge because of the heterogeneity of the unconventional formation and the uncertain physical properties of rock and the fluid-flow mechanism. Therefore, the objective of our study is to develop an efficient method for production forecast in low-permeability reservoirs. In this paper, we applied a locality preserving projection (LPP) -based machine-learning method to provide a novel way of predicting production in low-permeability reservoirs. Our model preserves the local geometric information inherent in the oil data and hence is capable of seizing its intrinsic nonlinear feature. Through LPP-based analysis, specific parameters (e.g., the total fluid pumped) are verified to have more important impact than others on estimating oil production. We conducted both parameter testing and comparison experiments, with results indicating that the LPP-based method has good applicability and efficiency in reasonably forecasting well production from low-permeability reservoirs. This work provides petroleum engineers an effective method for the prediction of oil production.
WITHDRAWN: Role of Organizations in Preparedness and Emergency Response to Flood Disaster in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Babul
Published: June 2020

The present study is to know the role of organizations and make an assessment on their assistance regarding preparedness and emergency response of flood disaster affected people. This study has used a mixed-method approach. Flood-affected people were the respondents to evaluate the organizational role. The study reveals that before the flood in 2017 to minimize the loss and damages, the GOs play a very effective role concerning the arrangement of preparatory meetings and preparing shelter centers, and NGOs play a very useful role in making arrangements for awareness-building training. During the emergency period, the GOs played a comparatively better role in providing CI sheets, agricultural assistance and cash money as relief for establishing housing facilities and emergency support. The NGOs played relatively a better role in providing food, water, clothes, medicine, etc. This study put forward complications such as limited sanctions, disruption of communication, lack of awareness of sufferers, and overlapping. The findings of this study would be a significant for the disaster policymakers, and civil societies.
Upregulation of Pole2 Promotes Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Progression via AKT/mTOR Pathway and Predicts a Poor Prognosis
Authors: Su Yajuan , Li Changfu , Liu Kun , Wei Liangjun , Li Dechao , Wang Wentao , Xu Yongpeng , Pan Hongxin , Teng Lichen
Published: June 2020

Background: Pole2 gene is a subunit of DNA polymerases localized in the nucleus, which commonly present in DNA repair. The effect of pole2 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) still remain unclear. Here we investigate its clinical significance, function in RCC cells and possible mechanism of effect.Methods: Using TCGA database, we identified that up-regulation of pole2 is associated with poor prognosis in ccRCC. We analyzed association between pole2 expression and T stage or Fuhrman grade. Thus, we investigate the effects of pole2 down-regulation on proliferation, cell cycles, apoptosis and possible mechanism in cells using lentivirus vector with shPole2.Results: Our study showed overexpression of pole2 in ccRCC samples, compared with normal kidney tissues, moreover, high expression of it related to high Fuhrman grade, also may predict poor prognosis in patients with ccRCC (p < 0.05). In cultured cells, knockdown of pole2 would result in inhibit of cell proliferation, increase the apoptosis of cells and arrest cell cycle at S phase. Importantly, knockdown pole2 can lead to down-regulation of p-mTOR and p-AKT expression.Conclusion: Taken together, our findings suggest that overexpression of pole2 may promote tumorgenesis and progress of ccRCC via AKT/mTOR signaling.
Co-existence of Hypertension and Pre-existing Cardiovascular Disease, Hypertension, and Pre-existing Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality in Patients on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Zhan Xiaojiang , Zhou Qian , Feng Xiaoran , Peng FenFen , Wang Niansong , Wen Yueqiang , Wu Xianfeng
Published: June 2020

Background Little is known about the effect of co-existence of hypertension (HTN) and pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD), pre-existing CVD, and HTN on mortality in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).Methods We conducted a retrospective study of 3073 incident Chinese patients on CAPD from five dialysis centers between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2018 in a real-world setting. The primary and secondary outcomes were all-cause and CVD mortality. The association between co-existence of HTN and pre-existing CVD, pre-existing CVD, and HTN and mortality was analyzed using Cox regression models.Results Over a median of 33.7 months of follow-up, 581 (18.6%) patients died, with 286 (9.3%) CVD mortality. Multinomial logistic regression showed that diabetes mellitus was associated with 6.22 (95% CI 4.46 to 8.68)-time risk of co-existence of HTN and pre-existing CVD After adjusting for the confounding factors, HTN plus CVD, pre-existing CVD, and HTN groups had a higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR 3.98, 95% CI 3.07 to 5.17; HR 2.18, 95% CI 1.27 to 3.74; and HR 1.83, 95% CI 1.47 to 2.28) and CVD mortality (HR 4.68, 95% CI 3.27 to 6.69; HR 2.11, 95% CI 0.96 to 4.63; and HR 1.87, 95% CI 1.37 to 2.54), respectively, compared to the control group. There was no significant interaction between HTN and pre-existing CVD on all-cause and CVD mortality (β = 0.010, P = 0.973; β = 0.058, P = 0.892) in the study population.Conclusions CAPD patients with co-existence of HTN and pre-existing CVD at the start of CAPD are at highest risk of all-cause and CVD mortality, followed by pre-existing CVD patients and HTN patients accordingly, with diabetes mellitus as a robustly predictor for co-existence of HTN and pre-existing CVD.
Genome Wide Analysis and Characterization of Heat Shock Transcription Factors (Hsfs) in French Bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.)
Authors: Mallick B. , kumari Meenu , Pradhan S. K. , C. Parmeswaran , Naresh P. , Acharya G. C.
Published: June 2020

Background: Heat shock transcription factors (HSFs) play an important role as transcriptional regulatory proteins against heat stress by controlling the expression of heat responsive genes. French bean is a highly thermosensitive crop and therefore, its genome sequence information segregated, characterized here in terms of heat shock transcription factors alongwith its evolutionary significance. Results: In this study, a total comprehensive set of 29 non-redundant full length HSF genes were identified and characterized from Phaseolus vulgaris L. (PvHSF) genome sequence. Detailed gene information such as chromosomal localization, domain position, motif organization and exon- intron identification were analyzed. All the 29 PvHSF genes were mapped on 8 out of 11 chromosomes indicating the gene duplication occurred in french bean genome. Motif analysis and exon- intron structure found to be conserved in each group which showed conserved structure of PvHSFs and heat induced response is highly influenced by the cytoplasmic proteins. Based on structural features and phylogenetic relationship, the HSF genes were grouped into three classes i.e. A to C and 14 groups. Presence of only one pair of paralog sequence suggests that it may be derived from the duplication event during evolution. Comparative genomics study indicated the influence of whole genome duplication and purifying selection on french bean genome during evolution. In silico expression analysis indicated active role of classs A and B family during abiotic stress condition and higher expression in floral organs. Conclusion: A comprehensive analysis of Heat shock transcription factors resulted 29 non-redundant full length PvHSF genes, which were characterized for their occurrence in genome and functional importance through In silico approach.
Prognostic value of ST2 for MACEs and all-cause mortality in patients with coronary artery disease during a long-term follow up
Authors: Li Man , Liu Hongbin , Duan Lei , Cai Yulun , Hao Benchuan , Chen Jianqiao , Li Huiying
Published: June 2020

PurposeST2 has been proved the prognostic value in acute coronary syndrome (ACS), its prognostic value to predict cardiac events in established coronary artery disease (CAD) patients is unknown. The study ought to investigate the prognostic value of ST2 in patients with established coronary artery disease.MethodsA total of 3650 consecutive patients were included in the study. The primary end point was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). The secondary end point was all-cause death. To explore competing risks, cause-specific hazard ratios were obtained using Cox regression models.ResultsDuring a median follow up of 6.4 years, there were 775 patients had the occurrence of MACEs and 275 patients died. Kaplan–Meier survival estimates indicated that the patients with higher level of ST2 (ST2 > 19 ng/ml) had a significantly increased risk of MACEs (log-rank p<0.001)and all-cause death(log-rank p<0.001). After adjustment for potential confounders, multiple COX regression models showed that higher level of ST2 was an independent predictor in developing MACEs(HR 1.31; 95% CI: 1.13–1.52; p<0.001) and all-cause death(HR 1.78; 95% CI: 1.38–2.30; p<0.001). We saw a significant increase of AUC in ROC curve after addition of GDF-15 to a clinical model 0.586 vs 0.619 For MACEs (p<0.001).For long-term all-cause death the increase of AUC 0.766 vs 0.642 (95% CI 0.787–0.846(p<0.001).ConclusionHigher level of ST2 is significantly associated with long-term all-cause death, MACEs and provides incremental prognostic value beyond traditional risks factors.
Recurrence of ameloblastoma in an autogenous bone graft 10 years after initial operation: A case report and literature review
Authors: wu si , Yan Hui , Han Lin , Yu Huaizhou
Published: June 2020

Background: Ameloblastoma is an asymptomatic locally invasive slow-growing odontogenic epithelial tumor. it is rare that the tumor developing in the autogenous bone graft.Case presentation: This report describes a case of ameloblastoma recurrence in an autogenous iliac bone graft 10 years after initial operation in a 37-year-old female who had a history of partial mandibulectomy + left iliac bone graft for ameloblastoma. In 2016 year, the patient was therefore admitted to our hospital for a second surgery, In 2017, 2018, 2019 after the second surgery, radiograph examination showed no recurrence after the surgery.Conclusions: Awareness of the concept of tumor-free operation, extensively resect the affected bone and soft tissue may help in ameloblastoma recurrence, Pathological diagnosis and long-term regular follow-up visits should help improve long-term outcome
Magnitude and associated factors for attitude and practice of Southern Ethiopian residents toward COVID-19 and its preventions: A community based cross sectional study
Authors: Mola Simeneh , Aweke Zemedu , Jemal Bedru , Hussein Robel , Hailu Sileshi , Neme Derartu , Mulugeta Hailemariam , Zemedkun Abebayehu
Published: June 2020

Background: COVID-19 first broke out in china, Hubei province on December 29, 2019. Since then it took more than hundred thousand lives worldwide. Although all countries are taking varying degree of measures to curb the dissemination, the virus is still spreading rapidly in all part of the world. Adherence of peoples for COVID-19 precautions measures is one of the most important factors which determine the effectiveness of curbing the spread. However without having good attitude adherence of people toward precaution measures could be challenging. Therefore the aim of this study is to assess the attitude, practice and associated factors of southern Ethiopian residents toward COVID-19 and its prevention. Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 585 Southern Ethiopian residents. Bivariate and multivariate binary logistic regression was used to determine association between dependent and independent variables. Adjusted odds ratio with their 95% CI was used show the strength of association. P-value < 0.05 was used to decide statistically significant association.Result: Most of the study participants (90.3%) have good attitude toward COVID-19 and its prevention. Being younger age group, having chronic medical illness, using television as a source of information and having good knowledge were significantly associated with good attitude toward COVID-19.On other hand; only 20% of the study participants have good practice toward COVID-19 prevention. Educational status, occupation and having chronic medical illness, uses of religious teaching as information sources are associated factors for good practice against COVID-19 infection. Conclusion: We conclude that despite the presence good attitude in majority of respondents much work needed to improve rare practice of COVID-19 preventive measures.
The impact of leptomeningeal collaterals in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Fatima Nida , Saqqur Maher , Shuaib Ashfaq
Published: June 2020

Objectives: Leptomeningeal collaterals provide an alternate pathway to maintain cerebral blood flow in stroke to prevent ischemia, but their role in predicting outcome is still unclear. So, our study aims at assessing the significance of collateral blood flow (CBF) in acute stroke. Methods: Electronic databases were searched under different MeSH terms from Jan 2000 to Feb 2019. Studies were included if there was available data on good and poor CBF in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The clinical outcomes included were modified rankin scale (mRS), recanalization, mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) at 90 days. Data was analyzed using random-effect model.Results: A total of 47 studies with 8,194 patients were included. Pooled meta-analysis revealed that there exist 2-fold higher likelihood of favorable clinical outcome (mRS≤2) at 90 days with good CBF compared with poor CBF (RR: 2.27; 95%CI: 1.94-2.65; p<0.00001) irrespective of the thrombolytic therapy [RR with IVT: 2.90; 95%CI: 2.14-3.94; p<0.00001, and RR with IAT/EVT: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.55-2.55; p<0.00001]. Moreover, there exists 1-fold higher probability of successful recanalization with good CBF (RR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.15-1.49; p<0.00001). However, there was 54% and 64% lower risk of sICH and mortality respectively in patients with good CBF in AIS (p<0.00001).Conclusions: The relative risk of favorable clinical outcome is more in patients with good pretreatment CBF. This could be explained due to better chances of recanalization, combined with lesser risk of intracerebral hemorrhage in good CBF status.
Measuring Conference Attendees’ Satisfaction: An Insight from Libya
Authors: Atia Ahmed , Abired Ahmed , Elshwekh Halla , Elmarzugi Nagib
Published: June 2020

Background and objectives: Even with the widespread repetition of organizing events and conferences by hosting organizations, little is known about the influence of such meeting on attendee’s satisfaction. However, up to our knowledge, there is no exploratory survey measured the satisfaction of conference attendees in Libya. Hence, this study sought to reveal the that impact of the effectiveness of conference messages on the attendee's satisfaction. Methods: A self-report survey designed to assess satisfaction with conference attributes was completed by 78 attendees following their participation in the 3rd Libyan conference on medical and pharmaceutical sciences held in Libya. The questionnaires were circulated through personal contact with respondents at the conference. Results: Based on data analysis, the lowest mean values ranging between “Poor satisfaction” and “fair” (from 2.8 to 3.4) have the attributes: networking, venue of the conference, and the new knowledge. Furthermore, the highest rating was assigned to the conference organization and quality of service, technical support, and conference program. Generally, it is obvious that the attendees are not completely satisfied with the conference in general and specifically with some conference attributes, which are related to the networking and the conference venue. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that the organizer should pay more attention to the venue selection process, as it affects overall quality of the conference. Further comparable studies, regarding conference satisfaction should be conducted in other conference venues and settings in Libya, in order to raise the quality of services destination attractiveness.
Detection of amyloid-beta and tau in tear fluid of patients with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Gijs Marlies , Ramakers Inez H.G.B. , Visser Pieter Jelle , Verhey Frans R.J. , Waarenburg Marjo P.H. van de , Schalkwijk Casper G. , Nuijts Rudy M.M.A. , Webers Carroll A.B.
Published: June 2020

Background There is growing interest in finding non-invasive alternatives to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that could serve as front-line diagnostics for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this study, we investigated AD-specific biomarkers in tear fluid.Methods Tear fluid was collected from 25 patients with subjective cognitive decline SCD), 24 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), 11 dementia patients and nine controls. Amyloid-beta peptides (AB38, AB40, AB42), t-tau and p-tau levels in tear fluid were determined using multiplex immunoassays.Results Tear t-tau levels in dementia, MCI and SCD patients were higher than in HC (p = 0.002, p = 0.002 and p = 0.013, respectively). A negative correlation between AB42 and t-tau was found in both tear fluid and CSF. Levels of tear p-tau were detectable in patients but not in HC.Conclusions This study shows for the first time presence of amyloid-beta peptides (AB38, AB40, AB42), t-tau and p-tau in tear fluid.
Indiscriminate use of agro-veterinary pesticides in plague endemic foci in Tanzania: potential risk for development of insecticide resistance in flea vectors
Authors: Rugalema Grace , Mnyone Ladslaus
Published: June 2020

Background: Agro-veterinary pesticides are increasingly associated with the development of resistance in arthropod disease vectors. However, no has been conducted so far to assess such risk in flea vectors despite the indiscriminate use of pesticides in plague endemic foci in Tanzania.Methods: We identified risk factors associated with the use of agro-veterinary pesticides, which could enhance development of resistance in flea vectors in two plague endemic districts, using structured questionnaire and direct observations.Results: Excessive and injudicious use of agricultural and veterinary pesticides was common in both Lushoto and Mbulu district. Most farmers (80%, n=73) were applying agricultural pesticides over three times per cropping season, did not adhere to manufacturers recommended doses, and had limited or no knowledge on safety procedures and adverse effects associated with pesticides. Up to 49% were applying pesticides more than twice the recommended doses. About 91% of respondents in Lushoto and 93% respondents in Mbulu reported using agricultural pesticides. The three (3) out of fourteen (14) most commonly used agricultural pesticides in Lushoto were master kinga72WP (mancozeb 640g/kg+cymoxanil 80g/kg) (44%), suracron720EC (profenos 500g/l EC) (25.3%) and Sumo 5EC (lambda-cyhalothrin) (18.7%). The three (3) out of seventeen (17) most commonly used agricultural pesticides in Mbulu were Dursban50W (Chlorpyrifos) (29%), Duduban 450EC (Cypermethrin 10g/lt+chloropyrifos 35g/lt) (18%) and Dursban+farmerzeb (Chlorpyrifos 48%, Mancozeb 80%WP). Cybadip (Cypermethrin) (≥45%) and paranex (alphacypermethrin) (≥13%) were the most commonly used livestock pesticides.Conclusion: This study identified injudicious uses and/or other malpractices, which enhance contamination of environments/surfaces with pesticides and consequently the exposure of flea vectors. Therefore, the flea vector populations in Lushoto and Mbulu districts are putatively under high risk of resistance development. Further studies are underway to confirm the insecticide resistance status, unravel distribution of the resistance, and involved resistance mechanisms.
Clinical Characteristics of Non-Pneumonia COVID-19 Adults in Shanghai, China
Authors: Ji Haiying , Hu Lijuan , Li Tao , Gong Linjing , Wu Xu , Shen Qinjun , Jiang Zhilong , Zhu Lei
Published: June 2020

Background: Since December 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) rapidly spread throughout the whole world , data have been needed on the clinical characteristics of the affected patients.Objectives: A total of 579 adult COVID-19 cases were enrolled in Shanghai from Jan 20 to Apr 15, 2020, in which 95 cases (16.41%) showed non-pneumonia on CT when confirmed. The characteristics of non-pneumonia cases have not been clearly described previously, and this might provide guidance to prevent and treatment of COVID-19.Method: We retrospectively collected the patient clinical dataset including demography, epidemiology, clinical manifestation, laboratory test results, diagnostic classification, treatment and clinical outcomes.Results: The average age of 95 COVID-19 cases was 31.45 ± 12.89 years old and 95.79% of them were less than 60 years old. They had mild clinical symptoms and/or laboratory abnormalities. 20 of the 95 cases occurred mild pneumonia during hospitalization, accompanied with lower lymphocyte counts, in which 60% cases were complicated with underlying condition and 15% cases were over 60 years old. All cases were cured. 16 of the 95 cases were local residents with clear epidemiological history and long incubation time, and mainly discovered as fever and respiratory symptoms. Other 79 cases were overseas imported, some had initial symptoms of diarrhea, smell or taste disorders and so on. They were mainly found at port of entry.Conclusions: Non-pneumonia COVID-19 predominantly occurred among young adults with mild clinical symptoms and possible long incubation time. The patients with underlying condition or at older age more likely developed mild pneumonia after diagnosis. Thereby, it is very important to pay attention to these patients and make reasonable diagnostic classification towards better prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome with endomyocardial fibroelastosis diagnosed in first trimester: A case report
Authors: Yang Shuihua , Yang Zuo-jian , Pang Yu-lan , Liang Meng-feng , Qin Gui-chan , Tian Xiao-xian , Li Xin-yan
Published: June 2020

Background Report a case of hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) with endomyocardial fibroelastosis (EFE) diagnosed in the first trimester. Case presentation We detected a balloon shaped left ventricle, a narrowed reverse blood stream signal in the aortic arch and widened blood stream signals in the pulmonary artery (2.2 mm) and the ductus arteriosus when performing echocardiographic screen with transabdominal sonography in a 31-year-old pregnant woman (gravida 2, para 1) who presented to our department for routine fetal ultrasonography at 11+2 weeks’ gestation. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of HLHS with EFE was suspected. The findings from autopsy confirmed the diagnosis. Conclusion Ultrasound screening in the first trimester may be helpful in early diagnosis of HLHS.
Two Quasi-Experimental Pilot Trials to Inform a Nationwide Embedded Pragmatic Clinical Trial on the Aliviado Dementia Care-Hospice Edition program
Authors: Lin Shih-Yin , Schneider Catherine E. , Bristol Alycia A. , Clancy Maureen , Sprague Sara A. , Aldridge Melissa , Cortes Tara A. , Goldfeld Keith S. , Kutner Jean S. , Mitchell Susan L. , Shega Joseph W. , Wu Bei , Zhu Carolyn W. , Brody Abraham A.
Published: June 2020

Background: Most investigators studying Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) are unfamiliar with embedded pragmatic clinical trials (ePCTs) and pilot studies designed to inform ePCTs. This paper provides a much-needed example for the pilot phase proceeding a nationwide AD/ADRD ePCT, reporting feasibility, applicability, and fidelity results. It also discusses implementation barriers and additional infrastructure and implementation strategies developed following the pilot phase. Methods: Two iterative, quasi-experimental pilot trials were conducted in two hospice agencies sequentially to refine and test the Aliviado Dementia Care-Hospice Edition program, a quality improvement program consisting of dementia care training; a toolbox of assessment instruments, symptom management algorithms, care plans, caregiver education sheets; and clinical workflow changes. Participants were 72 interdisciplinary team (IDT) members at the two hospices who met the eligibility criteria. To demonstrate readiness for the full ePCT, three milestones had to be met: ³80% training completion rate (“feasibility”), ³80% post-training survey respondents indicating intention for practice changes (“applicability”), and at least one Aliviado care plan/assessment instrument administered in ³75% of dementia patients admitted to home hospice within one-month post training (“fidelity”). Results: Sixty-six IDT members (92%) completed the dementia care training. Ninety-three percent of post-training survey respondents (response rate: 82%) reported that they will implement practice changes across pilots. Four patients with a primary diagnosis of advanced AD/ADRD and seven with AD/ADRD as a comorbidity were admitted to home hospice during the one-month post-training period in pilot two. All (100%) had at least one assessment instrument or care plan implemented. Main implementation challenges were related to hospice staff turnover, integration of the Aliviado toolbox materials within the electronic health record, and hospices’ limited research experience and infrastructure. Conclusions: Pilot testing established the feasibility of implementing and embedding Aliviado Dementia Care Hospice-Edition into hospice settings. The program content was applicable to hospice practices where IDT members were able to incorporate assessment instruments and dementia care plans into routine care. In proceeding to a full ePCT, we will automate implementation procedures, add mobile device point-of-care access to the toolbox materials, and incorporate strategies to strengthen long-term research partnerships with participating hospices.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03681119. Registered: September 21, 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03681119