bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Randomised Computer-assisted Rehabilitation Trial of Attention in Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis: A Post-hoc Analysis.
Authors: Simone Marta , Viterbo Rosa Gemma , Margari Lucia , Iaffaldano Pietro
Published: January 2021

Background: Cognitive decline is one of the most remarkable features of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and particularly in pediatric onset MS (POMS). The Simbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), a simple, brief measure of information processing speed (IPS) has been proposed and it is increasingly used to explore cognitive functions in MS clinical trials. Recently a 4-point worsening on the SDMT score has been demonstrated to significantly correlate with a clinically meaningful cognitive decline.Methods: The primary objective of this post-hoc analysis of a randomised computer-assisted rehabilitation trial for attention impairment in POMS was to test the clinical meaningfulness of the changes of SDMT scores by applying a 4-point SDMT cut-off. POMS exposed to specific computer training (ST) and nonspecific training (nST) were compared. All analyses were post hoc and not pre-specified. To evaluate the clinical meaningfulness of longitudinal changes over time of the SDMT in the ST and nST groups we applied a categorization of the delta SDMT scores (delta SDMT: SDMT score at T1 – SDMT score at T0) as follow: between -3 and 3 = not clinically significant; ≤ - 4 = clinically significant worsening; ≥ 4 = clinically significant improvement. The proportion of patients reporting a clinically significant SMDT improvement were compared between the 2 groups by using the chi-square test.Results: Twenty-five % of POMS reported no clinically significant changes, 12.5% a clinically significant worsening and 62.5% patients a clinically significant improvement in the SDMT score at the end of the training program. The proportion of patients reporting a clinically significant improvement of the SDMT was significantly (p=0.008) higher (100%) in patients exposed to the ST in comparison to that (25%) in nST group. Conclusions: In our RCT the use of the 4-point SDMT cut-off allows us to demonstrate the clinical meaningfulness of the results obtained by a home-based computerized program for retraining attention dysfunction in POMS patients with attention impairment. Further studies are needed to confirm the clinical validity of this cut-off and its applicability in the routine clinical practice setting
A Facilitated Gas Transport Strategy: 3D Porous Hyper-crosslinked Polymers Incorporating 6FDA-based Polyimide Matrix for the Design and Fabrication of Mixed Matrix Membranes with High Permeability
Authors: Chen Zan , Peng Longfei , Li Yinhui , Li Weixin , Duan Cuijia , Yuan Biao , Yan Shuo
Published: January 2021

Economic membrane technologies are a perennial hot topic in the field of natural gas purification and O2 enrichment. In this work, novel hyper cross-linked polymers (HCPs) incorporating 6-FDA based polyimide (PI) MMMs were prepared via a casting method for enhancing different gas transport (CO2, CH4, O2, and N2). The gas permeation experiments showed that compared with pure PI films, adding HCPs effectively promotes gas transport, increases gas permeability, and maintains ideal selectivity. The permeability of HCPs/PI MMMs toward CO2 and O2 was as high as 105.85 barrer and 24.03 barrer, respectively, and the ideal selectivity of CO2/CH4 and O2/N2 was 15.67 and 3.00, respectively. Molecular dynamic simulations further verified that adding HCPs was beneficial to gas transport thanks to large FFV of MMMs. Thus, HCPs have potential utility in the fabrication of MMMs for facilitating gas transport in the field of natural gas purification and O2 enrichment.
Birthweight Percentiles for Twins Based on Sex and Chorionicity in the South of China
Authors: Liu Qian , Wen Jiying , Fang Liyuan , Huang Yanlin , Rao Tengzi , Shi Xiaomei , Wu Jing
Published: January 2021

Birthweight percentile chart for different gestational age was served as an essential tool in the appropriate evaluation of neonates. Such percentile chart for twins based on different chrionicity were less reported. The aim of this study was to construct up-to-data sex specific twin neonates birth weight references by gestational ages based on different chorionicity in South of China. We retrospectively analysis 3431 twins birthweight born between 25 weeks and 40 weeks gestational age based on sex and chrionicity between 2015 to 2020 in local hospital. The smoothed birthweight percentile curves were conducted through the method, Generalized Additive Models for Location Scale and Shape (GAMLSS) .The mean birth weight of monochorionic twins were significantly lower than that of dichorionic twins , and the gestational week of delivery were earlier. The calculated 50th percentile birthweight values of twin boys were higher than those for girls based on the same chorionicity, except male monochorionic twins who were born before 31 weeks gestational age. Neonates birthweight percentile chart based on sex and chrionicity provide a tool for assessing the well being of twin infants. Use twin growth charts based on chrionicity is likely to prevent the over-diagnosis of SGA in normal growth twins.
MRI-based Assessment of Masticatory Muscle Changes in TMD Patients After Whiplash Injury 
Authors: Lee Yeon-Hee , Lee Kyung Mi , Auh Q-Schick
Published: January 2021

Objective: To investigate the change in volume and signal in the masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) after whiplash injury based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to correlate them with other clinical parameters. Methods: Ninety patients (64 women, 26 men; mean age: 39.36±15.40 years), including 45 patients with symptoms of TMD after whiplash injury (wTMD), and 45 age- and sex-matched controls with TMD due to idiopathic causes (iTMD) were included. TMD was diagnosed using the study diagnostic criteria for TMD Axis I, and MRI findings of the TMJ and masticatory muscles were investigated. To evaluate the severity of TMD pain and muscle tenderness, we used a visual analog scale (VAS), palpation index (PI), and neck PI. Results: TMD indexes, including VAS, PI, and neck PI were significantly higher in the wTMD group. In the wTMD group, muscle tenderness was highest in the masseter muscle (71.1%), and muscle tenderness in the temporalis (60.0%), lateral pterygoid muscle (LPM) (22.2%), and medial pterygoid muscle (15.6%) was significantly more frequent than that in the iTMD group (all p<0.05). The most noticeable structural changes in the masticatory muscles occurred in the LPM with whiplash injury. Volume (57.8% vs. 17.8%) and signal changes (42.2% vs. 15.6%) of LPM were significantly more frequent in the wTMD group than in the iTMD group. The presence of signal changes in the LPM was positively correlated with the increased VAS scores only in the wTMD group (r=0.346, p=0.020). The prevalence of anterior disc displacement without reduction (ADDWoR) (53.3% vs. 28.9%) and disc deformity (57.8% vs. 40.0%) were significantly higher in the wTMD group (p<0.05). The presence of headache, sleep problems, and psychological distress was significantly higher in the wTMD group than in the iTMD group. Conclusion: Abnormal MRI findings and their correlations with clinical characteristics of the wTMD group were different from those of the iTMD group. The underlying neuropathophysiology may differ depending on the cause of TMD, raising the need for a treatment strategy accordingly.
Evaluation of an Amharic-Language translation of Continuity of Care Satisfaction Tool among Postnatal Mothers in Ethiopia
Authors: Hailemeskel Solomon , Alemu Kassahun , Christensson Kyllike , Tesfahun Esubalew , Lindgren Helena
Published: January 2021

Background: Beginning in the 1990s, women’s dissatisfaction with maternity services has been widely reported in the literature. However, there is a lack of consistency in the studies published over the three decades since then. The nature and availability of maternity services vary widely from country to country and even in single countries, the United States for example, there is no such thing as nationally uniform maternal care. We need cross cultural validated tools to measure women’s satisfaction with maternity care. The study reported here aimed to develop a valid and reliable continuity of care satisfaction scale for use in Ethiopia, first by finding an appropriate English-language model and then translating that into an Amharic language version that in an appropriately modified form could be used for studies of postnatal mothers in Ethiopia. Methods: An Amharic-language translation of a satisfaction with continuity of care tool was prepared based on an English-language questionnaire and this was then back translated. A team of experts analyzed the Amharic-language questionnaire as concerns the following elements: Face and content validity; quality of the forward and back translations; expert panel and pre-testing of the tool. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 329 postnatal mothers in Debre Berhan town health facilities, Ethiopia using the Amharic version of the questionna ire. Internal consistency of the tool (reliability) was checked by using Cronbach’s alpha. We extracted a new factor structure by carrying out exploratory factor analysis (EFA). For the extracted factor structure, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted, and the model fit was assessed. Results: The translated tool was found to be acceptable by the experts and target groups. EFA yielded two subscales for each component of maternity care: “information provision and relationship with care providers” and “women’s self-assessment on quality of care”. The extracted factor structure had good convergent and discriminant validity. The tool has overall Cronbach’s α value of 0.94. All three domains have acceptable internal consistency with α value of >0.70. CFA 3 revealed a satisfactory fit between the questionnaire data and the model which provides support for the suggested factor structure identified by EFA. Conclusion: This study confirmed that the Amharic-language continuity of care satisfactio n evaluation tool is a valid tool for in future studies evaluating Ethiopian women’s satisfaction with maternity care. The results from such studies could be used to aid in a trial of the continuity of care model in Ethiopia.
A Comparison of Three Interactive Examination Designs in Active Learning Classrooms for Nursing Students
Authors: Ahlstrom Linda , Holmberg Christopher
Published: January 2021

Background: Despite the advantages of using active learning strategies in nursing education, researchers have rarely investigated how such pedagogic approaches can be used to assess students or how interactive examinations can be modified depending on circumstances of practice (e.g., in online education). Aims: The aim was to compare three interactive examination designs, all based on active learning pedagogy, in terms of nursing students’ engagement and preparedness, their learning achievement, and instructional aspects.Methods: A comparative research design was used including final-year undergraduate nursing students. All students were enrolled in a quality improvement course at a metropolitan university in Sweden. In this comparative study to evaluate three course layouts, participants (Cohort 1, n = 89; Cohort 2, n = 97; Cohort 3, n = 60) completed different examinations assessing the same course content and learning objectives, after which they evaluated the examinations on a questionnaire in numerical and free-text responses. Chi-squared tests were conducted to compare background variables between the cohorts and Kruskal–Wallis H tests to assess numerical differences in experiences between cohorts. Following the guidelines of the Good Reporting of a Mixed Methods Study (GRAMMS), a sequential mixed-methods analysis was performed on the quantitative findings, and the qualitative findings were used complementary to support the interpretation of the quantitative results. Results: The 246 students who completed the questionnaire generally appreciated the interactive examination in active learning classrooms. Among significant differences in the results, Cohort 2 (e.g., conducted the examination on campus) scored highest for overall positive experience and engagement, whereas Cohort 3 (e.g., conducted the examination online) scored the lowest. Students in Cohort 3 generally commended the online examination’s chat function available for use during the examination. Conclusions: Interactive examinations for nursing students succeed when they are campus-based, focus on student preparation, and provide the necessary time to be completed.
Tissue-specific Nutrient Metabolism in the Liver and Muscle of Juvenile Blunt Snout Bream (Megalobrama Amblycephala) in Response to Dietary Methionine Levels
Authors: Ji Ke , Liang Hualiang , Ren Mingchun , Ge Xianping , Zhang Lu , Pan Liangkun , Yu Heng
Published: January 2021

BackgroundMethionine is an essential amino acid, that affects the metabolism of protein, lipid and glucose. However, the metabolic polytrophic response in the liver and muscle of juvenile Megalobrama amblycephala to dietary methionine levels is unclear.ResultsThe 0.84% methionine diet significantly improved the growth performance compared with the 0.40% diet. Dietary methionine levels had no marked effects on plasma parameters or whole body composition of juveniles. The protein levels of phospho-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, protein kinase B, phospho-eukaryotic initiation factor 4E binding protein-1 (p-4E-BP1), 4E-BP1 and ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1, in the liver of fish fed the 0.84% diet were higher than those in fish fed the 0.40% diet. While in muscle, these proteins showed the opposite trend. The mRNA levels of the muscular lipid synthesis associated genes: sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1), fatty acid synthetase (FAS) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), were significantly upregulated by the 1.28% methionine diet; while hepatic SREBP1, FAS and ACC mRNA expression levels were increased by 0.40% methionine. In addition, 1.28% dietary methionine significantly induced fatty acid β-oxidation and lipolysis of the liver and muscle via increased carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha, lipoprotein lipase and lipase expression levels. Compared with 0.40% dietary methionine, 1.28% methionine enhanced the mRNA levels of the hepatic gluconeogenesis related genes phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase, and the muscular glycolysis related genes phosphofructokinase (PFK) and pyruvate kinase (PK). The mRNA expression levels of hepatic PFK, PK and glucokinase were markedly upregulated by the 0.84% methionine diet compared with the 1.28% diet. In addition, muscular PEPCK and glycogen synthase, and hepatic glucose transporters 2 mRNA levels were induced by 1.28% methionine. ConclusionThe study showed that optimal methionine levels could enhance the growth of juvenile Megalobrama amblycephala, and the nutrient metabolism response to dietary methionine in the liver and muscle was tissue-specific.
Dietary Daidzein Supplementation Improved Growth Performance and Antioxidant Properties in Weaned and Growing Pigs
Authors: Li Yanpin , Jiang Xianren , Cai Long , Zhang Yanli , Ding Hongbiao , Yin Jingdong , Li Xilong
Published: January 2021

Background: In previous study, we found that soybean isoflavones in soybean meal play important roles in improving growth performance and antioxidant properties in pigs. However, it is still not known whether long-term supplementation with daidzein, an active molecule deglycosylated from daidzin, in a corn-soybean meal diet can enhance growth performance in pigs. Thus, in the present study, an animal trial was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with daidzein on the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of pigs. Porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) were also used as an in vitro model to explore the underlying antioxidant mechanisms of daidzein. Weanling pigs were fed a diet supplemented with 0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg daidzein, and IPEC-J2 cells were treated with 0.6 mM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the presence or absence of 40 μM daidzein. Results: Adding 50 mg/kg daidzein to the diet significantly improved body weight on day 72, average daily gain during days 0-72 and plasma superoxide dismutase activity on day 42 (P < 0.05). Treatment with 0.6 mM H2O2 for 1 h significantly decreased cell viability and catalase (CAT) activities and increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) content (P < 0.05), while pretreatment with 40 μM daidzein prevented the decrease in cell viability and CAT activities and the increase in intracellular ROS levels and MDA content caused by H2O2 (P < 0.05). In addition, H2O2 stimulation significantly suppressed the expression of nuclear factor erythoid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), CAT, occludin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), while pretreatment with daidzein preserved the expression of Nrf2, CAT, occludin and ZO-1 in H2O2-stimulated IPEC-J2 cells (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Long-term dietary supplementation with 50 mg/kg daidzein improved growth performance and antioxidative properties in pigs. Daidzein exerted protective effects against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in IPEC-J2 cells, and the underlying mechanism may be related to the activation of the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1-Nrf2/antioxidant response element signaling pathway.
Between viral targets and differentially expressed genes in COVID-19: the sweet spot for therapeutic intervention.
Authors: Zambrana Carme , Xenos Alexandros , Böttcher René , Malod-Dognin Noel , Przulj Natasa
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is raging. It revealed the importance of rapid scientific advancement towards understanding and treating new diseases. To address this challenge, we adapt an explainable artificial intelligence algorithm for data fusion and utilize it on new omics data on viral-host interactions, human protein interactions, and drugs to better understand SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanisms and predict new drug-target interactions for COVID-19. We discover that in the human interactome, the human proteins targeted by SARS-CoV-2 proteins and the genes that are differentially expressed after the infection have common neighbors central in the interactome that may be key to the disease mechanisms. We uncover 185 new drug-target interactions targeting 49 of these key genes and suggest re-purposing of 149 FDA-approved drugs, including drugs targeting VEGF and nitric oxide signaling, whose pathways coincide with the observed COVID-19 symptoms. Our integrative methodology is universal and can enable insight into this and other serious diseases.
Perceived risk factors for adolescent pregnancy in rural Paraguay
Authors: Palmer Sheri Patten , Matthews Rachel T , Heaston Sondra , Reed Shelly
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Adolescent pregnancy creates challenges worldwide and manifests in both developing and developed countries. Little research has been done on factors contributing to adolescent pregnancy in Paraguay, especially among rural populations that also include indigenous people. Anecdotal information from these areas typifies adolescent pregnancy as high as 50–80%.
Methods

A qualitative study including a semi-structured interview was conducted to explore perceived risks for adolescent pregnancy in Paraguay. Adults who work closely with adolescents in school, community activities, or health clinics were interviewed. Thematic analysis was used to identify the most common factors leading adolescents to become pregnant.
Results

The factors identified include school non-attendance, inadequate sex education, social pressure, widespread cultural acceptance, limited life opportunities, and poor communication. In addition, participants identified possible interventions to mitigate the perceived risk factors.
Conclusions

Among possible interventions, the most voiced method was to provide culturally appropriate school-based comprehensive sex education. Such education based on the internationally acclaimed guidelines from the WHO and UNESCO could be culturally modified. It is appropriate to include families in the teaching as the Paraguayan minister of education has proclaimed the traditional family will play a role in the upcoming reform of sex education.
Atherogenic index of plasma is an independent predictor of ultrasound-proven nonalcoholic fatty liver disease among non-obese populations
Authors: Ye Hua-Jun , Chen Xu-Yan , He XiXi
Published: January 2021

Background & AimsEvidence regarding the association between atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in non-obese populations is limited. Our study aimed to investigate whether AIP predicts NAFLD in non-obese Chinese populations.MethodsThe present study was a population-based longitudinal study, including 16 173 non-obese participants who underwent health examinations in a tertiary hospital from January 2010 to December 2014. The primary outcome was developing NAFLD during the follow-up period. AIP was calculated as Log (Triglycerides/ high-density lipoprotein cholesterol).ResultsThe mean age of the included participants was 43.2 ± 15.0 years old, and about 52.5% of them were male. During the follow-up period, 2 322 of 16 173 (14.3%) participants developed NAFLD. In the fully-adjusted model, for every one standard deviation increased in AIP levels, the incidence of NAFLD increased by 52% (1.52, 95%CI 1.43, 1.60). The optimal cut-off point of AIP for incident NAFLD was 0.00 (receiver operator characteristic 0.76 [95% CI 0.75–0.77], sensitivity 0.68, specificity 0.72). Individuals with AIP values in the positive range had two-fold increased odds of developing NALFD compared with those with values in the negative range. After propensity score matching, for every one-SD increased in AIP levels, the incidence of NAFLD increased by 34% (HR 1.34, 95%CI 1.27, 1.41).ConclusionAIP is an independent predictor of incident NAFLD among Chinese non-obese populations.
Temporal Lobe Activation Predicts Episodic Memory Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Taing Abbie , Mundy Matthew , Ponsford Jennie , Spitz Gershon
Published: January 2021

The temporal lobes are critical for episodic memories and are preferentially affected following a traumatic brain injury (TBI). As such, episodic memory difficulties are common following TBI; however, the underlying neural changes that precipitate or maintain these difficulties in the early phase of recovery remains poorly understood. Here, we use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to interrogate the relationship of temporal lobe activation in response to face, scene, and animal stimuli. Twenty-five patients with moderate to severe TBI were recruited an average of 2 months’ post-injury and compared with 21 demographically similar healthy controls. Findings indicate that memory for faces was preferentially impaired, compared to scene and animal stimuli. Decreased activity in temporal lobe structures was present for both face (right transverse temporal gyrus) and scene stimuli (right fusiform gyrus), but not for animals. Greater activation in these structures was associated with better long-term recognition. These findings provide evidence to suggest that TBI: a) preferentially affects memory for complex stimuli such as faces and scenes, and b) causes aberrant neuronal processes despite lack of evidence of significant impairment in behavioural performance. The mechanisms underpinning these findings are discussed in terms of differences in verbalisation during encoding and reduced neural efficiency.
Highly Stabilized Flexible Transparent Capacitive Photodetector Based on Silver Nanowire/Graphene Hybrid Electrodes
Authors: Hwang Yooji , Hwang Young Hyun , Choi Kwang Wook , Lee Seungwon , Park Soo Jong , Ju Byeong-Kwon
Published: January 2021

The need for photodetectors in various fields has gradually emerged, and several studies in this area are therefore being conducted. For photodetectors to be used in various environments, their transparency, flexibility, and durability must be ensured. However, the development of flexible photodetectors based on the current measurement techniques of conventional photodetectors has been difficult owing to the limitations of semiconductor materials. In this study, a new type of flexible and transparent capacitive photodetector was fabricated to address the shortcomings of conventional photodetectors. In addition, by introducing graphene electrodes to a new type of manufactured photodetector, devices with excellent overall chemical, thermal, and mechanical durability have been developed. Compared to photodetectors based on pristine Ag nanowire (AgNW) electrodes, AgNW/graphene hybrid electrode-based photodetectors exhibit a 20% higher photosensitivity. Also, the hybrid AgNW/graphene electrode on the dielectric layer exhibited low sheet resistance (~8 W/sq) and relatively high transmittance (~45%).
Cortical Reorganization in Unilateral Deafness Revealed by Auditory Evoked Response
Authors: Han Ji-Hye , Lee Jihyun , Lee Hyo-Jeong
Published: January 2021

Profound unilateral deafness reduces the ability to detect the location of sounds, which is achieved with binaural hearing. Furthermore, the findings from previous studies have shown that unilateral deafness can cause a substantial change in the pattern of cortical activation, thereby leading to central reorganization in the whole brain. In the present study, we compared N1/P2 auditory cortical activities and the pattern of hemispheric asymmetry of normal hearing, unilaterally deaf, and simulated acute unilateral hearing loss groups during passively listening to speech sounds at different locations. The results show that P2 latencies were prolonged for left-side stimulation with greater angles in the horizontal plane. In the source analysis, a differential lateralization pattern was revealed such that the N1 source activation in the normal hearing subjects was greater in the left hemisphere, while contralateral activity was found in response to the stimulated side for the right-sided deaf and simulated acute hearing loss groups. However, no hemispheric lateralization was found for the left-sided deaf or simulated acute hearing loss groups. In addition, the cortical N1/P2 activities were inversely related to the duration of deafness in the right auditory region. These findings indicate that the cortical reorganization induced by monaural hearing deprivation differs depending on the side and duration of deafness.
Thrombopoietin receptor agonist eltrombopag prevents insulin resistance-mediated synaptic pathology via HIF1α/GSK3β/Sirt1 pathway
Authors: Yu He , Wang Xuebao , Liu Leping , Chen Baihui , Feng Shuya , Lu Xiaoai , You Ruimin , ding saidan
Published: January 2021

Background

Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is characterized by impaired cognitive function and memory loss, which are often the result of synaptic pathology. Insulin resistance has been reported to be closely correlated with the pathogenesis of MHE.
Methods

The effect of thrombopoietin receptor agonist eltrombopag (ELT) on neurodegeneration and insulin resistance was examined in the primary rat neurons and an MHE rat model.
Results

We found that the level of thrombopoietin receptor c-MPL (MPL) expression was decreased in MHE brains, and ELT administration improved insulin resistance, alleviated the destruction of synaptic formation and enhanced learning and memory in the MHE rats, indicating the relationship between dowregulated ELT and insulin resistance. Then in vitro, ELT treatment ameliorated the impairment of glucose uptake, indicating the reduction of insulin resistance. High dose of glucose inhibited insulin-stimulated downregulation of Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF1α) expression, the phosphorylation of GSK3β (pGSK3 β), upregulation of sirtuin-1 (Sirt1), destruction of synaptic formation and activity, which were all reversed by ELT treatment in insulin resistant neurons.
Conclusions

These results indicate that ELT is a promising potential therapeutic agent for insulin resistance and defect in learning and memory.
Use of PrimeStore® Molecular Transport Medium and Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra for Rapid Detection of Mycobacterium Bovis in African buffaloes (Syncerus Caffer).
Authors: Clarke Charlene , Smith Katrin , Goldswain Samantha J , Helm Christopher , Cooper David V , Kerr Tanya J , Kleynhans Léanie , Helden Paul D van , Warren Robin M , Miller Michele A , Goosen Wynand J
Published: January 2021

Mycobacterium bovis is the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in wildlife. Confirmation of M. bovis infection relies on mycobacterial culture, which is time-consuming. Collection and transportation of infectious material also pose a human health risk. PrimeStore® Molecular Transport Medium (MTM) has been shown to effectively inactivate infectious organisms, making it a safe method for handling infectious samples. This study investigated an in-field sampling technique for rapid, safe detection of M. bovis in buffalo tissues. Potentially infected tissues from bTB test-positive buffaloes were swabbed at post-mortem examination and stored in PrimeStore® MTM at ambient temperature until Xpert® MTB/RIF Ultra testing was performed. Additionally, tissue samples were frozen and transported before homogenisation for culture and Ultra testing. Oral swabs were collected from M. bovis-unexposed buffaloes as a negative control cohort. Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) DNA was detected by Ultra in 13/16 tissue swabs and 9/16 matched tissue homogenates from culture-confirmed M. bovis-positive buffalo tissues. MTBC DNA was not detected in swabs from M. bovis-unexposed animals, showing the potentially high specificity of Ultra with PrimeStore® swabs. PrimeStore® MTM sample processing, in combination with the Ultra assay, has the potential to provide a safe, rapid post-mortem screening test for M. bovis in buffaloes.
Effect of Heat Inactivation for the Detection of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) with Reverse Transcription Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR): Evidence from Ethiopian Study
Authors: Hailemariam Belete Woldesemayat , Gebremicael Gebremedihin , Zealias Kidist , Yilma Amelework , Adane Sisay , Yimer Mengistu , Gutema Gadissa , Feleke Altaye , Desta Kassu
Published: January 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) specimen handling needs a major concern due to the virus has a potential of easily transmittable to health care workers and laboratory personnel. Heat inactivation before nucleic acid isolation might permit safe testing, even though, the effect of heat inactivation on SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR detection results needs to be determined. Methods: An experimental study was conducted in Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) from September 25 to October 15, 2020. A total of 188 Oro-pharyngeal swabs were collected from COVID-19 suspected cases, referred to EPHI for SARS COV-2 testing during the study period. One group of the sample was inactivated at 56 °C heat for 30 min, and the other group was stored at 4°C for a similar period of time. RNA extraction and detection were done by DAAN Gene extraction and detection kit. Abbott m2000 RT-PCR was used for amplification and detection. Data analysis was done by using SPSS version 23.0; Chi-square and Pearson correlation test for qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis were used. P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.Results: Out of 188 total samples, 117 (62.2 %) and 118 (62.8%) were positive for ORF1a/b and N gene respectively before inactivation. Whereas after inactivation, 111 (59 %) was ORF1a/b and 116 (61.7 %) was N gene positive. Rate of positivity between groups was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The mean CT value difference between the two groups of ORF1a/b gene and N gene was 0.042 (95 % CI, -0.247- 0.331; t= 0.28; p = 0.774) and 0.38 (95% CI, 0.097 - 0.682; t =2.638; p = 0.010) respectively.Conclusion: Heat inactivation at 56 ℃ for 30 min has not statistically significant effect for the qualitative rRT-PCR detection of SARS-CoV-2. However, the finding also showed that there was statistically significant CT value increment after heat inactivation compared to untreated samples. Therefore, false-negative results with high CT value results (CT > 35) were found to be the challenge of this protocol. Hence alternative inactivation methods should be investigated and further studies should be considered.
Practice of Malaria Prevention and Control Methods and Associated Factors Among Rural Households in West Belessa District 2019
Authors: Aragie Tsigie Baye , wolde Haileab Fekadu
Published: January 2021

Background: In Ethiopia, the burden of malaria continues to cause a substantial number of morbidity and mortality. Communities’ practices of malaria prevention and control methods contribute immensely to sustainable control of malaria. This evidence is quite limited in the study area. Hence, this study aimed to assess Practice of malaria prevention and control methods and associated factors among rural household in west belessa district, northwest Ethiopia, 2019. Method: Community-based cross-sectional mixed quantitative and qualitative study was conducted from April to June 2019, in West Belessa district, North West Ethiopia. Multistage sampling was used to select a 740 sample size. A structured questionnaire was used for the quantitative component and a semi-structured questionnaire for the qualitative component. Quantitative data collected by interviewing and qualitative data using focus group discussion. Quantitative data was coded and entered using Epi info software and analyzed using SPSS. The binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify the associated factors. Odds Ratio with 95% Confidence Interval was used to assess the strength of association. The qualitative data was transcribed manually using the thematic approach.Result: A total 738 subjects included with 99.7% response rate. 50.9% of respondents had good practice of malaria prevention and control methods. LLINs and IRS were practiced by 21.1% and 80.5% respectively. Poorest wealth quintiles [AOR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.27, 0.76], poor wealth quintiles [AOR=0.51, 95% CI: 0.30, 0.88], medium wealth quintiles [AOR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.14, 0.42] and wealthy wealth quintile [AOR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.36], living in Menti Kebele [AOR = 3.88, 95% CI: 2.43,6.20], female sex [AOR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.47, 0.90], illiterate educational status [AOR = 0.34, 95% CI 0.16, 0.72] knowledge level poor [AOR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.75] were significantly associated with good malaria prevention practice. All of the FGD participants participated at least one malaria prevention method. Conclusion: There were good IRS and environmental management malaria prevention practices, however, LLINs and other malaria prevention methods were poorly practiced. Wealth index, respondents living kebele, female sex, educational status, and respondents’ malaria prevention knowledge are predictors for the practice of malaria prevention.
Exosome-associated Mitochondrial DNA is Elevated in Patients with ME/CFS and Stimulates Human Cultured Microglia to Secrete IL-1β
Authors: Theoharides Theoharis C , Tsilioni Irene , Natelson Benjamin
Published: January 2021

Background: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating disease that presents with fatigue, sleep disturbances, malaise and cognitive problems. The pathogenesis of ME/CFS is presently unknown and serum levels of potential biomarkers have been inconsistent. Methods: Exosomes were purified from serum obtained from patients with ME/CFS before and after exercise and their content of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was determined by quantitative PCR. Exosomes from both patients and controls were incubated with cultured human microglia and release of interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) was measured by ELISA.Results: Here we show that serum mtDNA, associated with exosomes, is increased in ME/CFS after exercise. Moreover, exosomes isolated from patients with ME/CFS stimulate significant secretion of IL-1β from cultured human microglia. Conclusion: These results provide evidence for a potential novel pathogenetic factor and target for treatment of ME/CFS.
The Role of Health, Learning and Leadership Institutions in Schistosomiasis Research Uptake in Ingwavuma Area, uMkhanyakude District, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Authors: Mindu Tafadzwa , Chimbari Moses J. , Msesengwa Rosemary
Published: January 2021

Background: MABISA (Malaria and Bilharzia in Southern Africa) project generated knowledge on schistosomiasis trends, prevalence, intensity and incidence under changing climatic conditions. Uptake of this knowledge may benefit the affected communities in the uMkhanyakude area to develop strategies that may reduce their vulnerability to schistosomiasis. Research uptake (RU) is dependent upon the engagement of various stakeholders who are likely to utilise the generated knowledge. This study purpose is to determine the role of health, learning and leadership institutions in the uptake schistosomiasis research findings. Methods: In-depth interviews with 18 key informants purposively selected from health, educational and social institutions were conducted. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Roles played by each stakeholder in community health communication were determined. The stakeholder’s power to influence the community and their interest for reducing the burden of schistosomiasis were interpreted using the Boston matrix. Results: The stakeholder analysis showed that teachers and nurses have a high influence and interest in solving the problem and can be partnered with in delivering schistosomiasis RU interventions. Councillors and village headmen had high influence but low interest in the problem of schistosomiasis but could participate in intervention activities or be consulted before the interventions are implemented. Health workers had high interest in the problem but had low influential power. They, however, can be consulted or be provided with information to share with the people they interact with in the community. The library had low interest in the problem; however they could assist by disseminating information about schistosomiasis through distribution and display of learning materials to library users.Conclusions: We concluded that knowledge uptake is highly influenced by stakeholder’s choice of communication channels. The role of stakeholders is determined by their interest, influence and ability to implement interventions. Therefore, for effective schistosomiasis knowledge uptake to occur, capacity building in health communication channels and buy-in by stakeholders are essential.
Assessment of the Seric Calcium and Parathormone Levels in Patients Underwent Hemithyroidectomy.
Authors: Palop Isabel Fernández , Martínez Cristina Fernández , Giménez María Jesús Segura , Samper María del Carmen Azorín , Fuster Rafael García
Published: January 2021

Background and objective: Hypocalcemia is one of the main complications that patients undergoing thyroid surgery can suffer. We believe that there may be an impact on serum parathormone and calcium values, despite only one thyroid cell is manipulated in thyroid lobectomy. The former explanation is the reason because we carried out a measurement and analised a potential correlation between them. Methods: This is a prospective study of 53 patients underwent thyroid lobectomy. The serum parathormone value was determined in the preoperative period, 15 min after extraction of the surgical piece, 24 hours and 3 weeks after surgery. Ionic calcium was also measured at 6 hours, 24 hours and 3 weeks. Postoperative parathormone values were compared as well as their gradient descent respect to the postoperative calcium value. The appearance of the parathyroid glands was described during surgery. Results: In none of the patients did the ionic calcium drop below 4mg / dl. The decrease in preoperative calcemia compared with the values at 6 and 24 hours had statistical significance, there were no differences compared to 3 weeks experiment. An analogous trend was observed between the percentage values of decrease in parathormone and postoperative calcemia. Conclusions: Although the calcemia decreased after a lobectomy, it always remained above 4 mg / dl. We conclude that hemithyroidectomy is a safe technique regarding the appearance of hypocalcemia in the postoperative period.
Emergence of Babesia Conradae Infection in Coyote-hunting Greyhounds in Oklahoma, USA
Authors: Stayton Erin M , Lineberry Megan , Thomas Jennifer , Bass Tina , Allen Kelly , Chandrashekar Ramaswamy , Yost Gene , Reichard Mason , Miller Craig
Published: January 2021

Background: Babesia species are intraerythrocytic Apicomplexan parasites that infect a wide range of vertebrate hosts. These pathogens are typically transmitted either by tick vectors or by direct blood-to-blood contact, and may cause life-threatening clinical disease such as thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, and acute renal failure in canine hosts. While Babesia vogeli and Babesia gibsoni infections have both been reported in Oklahoma, reports of B. conradae infections have been limited to California. Methods: Whole blood samples were collected in EDTA tubes from all dogs in four separate kennels in Oklahoma. DNA was extracted from each blood sample and a nested PCR was performed using general Apicomplexan primers for the partial 18S rRNA gene. PCR products were electrophoresed in agarose matrix and appropriately sized amplicons were sequenced. Sequences were compared to reference 18S rRNA sequences available in GenBank, and samples with >98% homology to B. conradae (GenBank MK256976) were considered positive. B. conradae positive dogs were then treated with atovaquone (13.5 mg/kg TID) and azithromycin (10 mg/kg SID) for 10 days and retested at 30 and 60 days post treatment by PCR. Results: Fifteen of 40 dogs tested positive for B. conradae with 98–100% sequence homology to B. conradae from California. All positive cases were coyote-hunting Greyhounds. Treatment of clinically ill dogs with atovaquone and azithromycin resulted in complete clinical recovery in clinically ill dogs and all treated dogs had negative follow-up PCR at 30 and 60 days post treatment. Conclusions: Collectively, this study (i) documents the occurrence of B. conradae in Oklahoma, (ii) highlights this pathogen as a differential to be considered when clinical signs are present, and (iii) supports the use of atovaquone and azithromycin as effective treatment in these cases.
MicroRNA 155 Contributes to Host Immunity Against Toxoplasm Gondii
Authors: Zhu Yu-Chao , Qiu Chou-Jian , Xu Ya-Nan , Zhou Chun-Xue , Chen Jia
Published: January 2021

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is known to infect almost all the mammalian including human beings and avian species, with worldwide distribution, and cause serious toxoplasmosis, posing regards with public health problem. The role of microRNAs in the pathogenesis of T. gondii has not been well described. The objective of the present study was to investigate the role of microRNA-155 (miR-155) in mediating innate and adaptive immune responses during T. gondii infection. Methods: The survival and parasite burden in T. gondii-infected miR-155-/- and WT C57BL6 mice were compared. In these two mouse models, ELISA were used for analysis of Th1-associated, Th-2 associated, and Th-17 associated cytokines, and flow cytometry were used for analysis of the subpopulations of NK, NKT, CD8+T, CD4+T cells and Tregs, as well as Ly6Chi inflammatory monocytes and DCs. Proinflammatory mediators and CD8+ T cells responses were also analyzed by using qRT-PCR and flow cytometry, respectively. In the end, the expression of the direct target of miR-155, SHIP-1 and SOCS1 was analyzed by using qRT-PCR.Results: The lack of miR-155 led to increased parasite burden and decreased survival of infected mice in contrast to WT mice. Innate and adaptive immune responses were reduced in the absence of miR-155, associated with diminished Proinflammatory mediators, Th1-associated and Th-2 associated cytokines and accumulation of lymphocyte subpopulations. Also, CD8+ T cells exhaustion was also worsened in the absence of miR-155 via targeting to SHIP-1 and SOCS1, showing as up-regulated recruit of Tregs and expression of PD-1 and, and down-regulated expression of IFN-γ and TNF-α in CD8+ T cells.Conclusion: miR-155 is a critical immune regulator for the control of T. gondii infection, suggesting that miR155 can be explored as a potential molecular target for boosting immunity against T. gondii.
Evaluation of Two Sexual-stage Antigens as Bivalent Transmission-blocking Vaccines in Rodent Malaria
Authors: Yang Fan , Liu Fei , Yu Xinxin , Zheng Wenqi , Wu Yudi , Qiu Yue , Jin Ying , Cui Liwang , Cao Yaming
Published: January 2021

Background: Transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) is a promising strategy for malaria elimination. It is hypothesized that mixing or fusing two antigens targeting different stages of sexual development may provide higher transmission-blocking activity than these antigens are used individually.Methods: We designed a chimeric protein composed of fragments of Pbg37 and PSOP25 and expressed the recombinant protein in Escherichia coli Rosetta-gami B (DE3). After immunizing mice with mixing or fusing recombinant proteins, the antibody titers of sera were analyzed by ELISA. IFA and Western blot were performed to test the reactivity of the antisera with the native proteins of the parasite. The transmission blocking activity were assessed in vitro and in vivo assay. Results: When Pbg37 and PSOP25 were co-administered in a mixture or as a fusion protein, they elicited similar antibody responses in mice as single antigens without causing immunological interference with each other. Antibodies against the mixed or fused antigens recognized the target proteins in the gametocyte, gamete, zygote and ookinete stages. The two bivalent vaccines (mixed proteins or a fusion protein) produced the superior TBA compared to that of the antibodies against individual antigens.Conclusions: There was no immunological interference between the two antigens of bivalent vaccines. And the bivalent vaccines produced significantly stronger transmission-blocking activities than single antigens. Altogether, these data provide the theoretical basis for the development of combination TBVs targeting different sexual stages.