bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Ruminal Crabtree-negative Yeast Ensiled Rice Straw on Feed Intake, Rumen Fermentation, and Performance in Tropical Crossbred Lactating Holstein Cows
Authors: Suntara Chanon , Cherdthong Anusorn , Uriyapongson Suthipong , Wanapat Metha , Chanjula Pin
Published: January 2021

This research aimed to determine the effects of ruminal Crabtree-negative yeast ensiled rice straw (RS) on feed intake, ruminal fermentation, milk production, and milk composition in tropical crossbred lactating Holstein cows. This study used 6 multiparous crossbreds between Holstein Frisian × Zebu dairy cows in their mid-lactation period (165.5 ± 44.0 of day-in-milk) with an initial body weight of 363.9 ± 55.80 kg (average milk yield 8.58 kg/d). Dairy cows were randomly allocated to three ensiled RS with various yeast species including S. cerevisiae, P. kudriavzevii KKU20, and C. tropicalis KKU20 according to a 3 × 3 replicated Latin square design. The ruminal yeasts were obtained by isolating, screening, and identifying the rumen of crossbred Thai-Holstein Friesian dairy cattle. The yeast species did not change the RS intake, concentrate diet, and total intake (P > 0.05). Crabtree-negative yeast (P. kudriavzevii and C. tropicalis) increased the apparent digestibility of dry matter by about 6.9% when compare with Crabtree-positive yeast (S. cerevisiae). Rumen pH and ammonia-nitrogen concentration were not changed among yeast species (P > 0.05). The bacterial populations at both 0 hours and 4 hours after feeding and the mean value were highest (P < 0.05) with ensiled RS with C. tropicalis KKU20. Ensiled RS with P. kudriavzevii KKU20 and C. tropicalis KKU20 were significantly increased with a total volatile fatty acids (VFAs) at 0 and 4 hours after feeding (P < 0.05) when compared with S. cerevisiae, whereas yeasts ensiled RS had no effect on the VFAs’ profile (P > 0.05). The yeast strains’ effects were not observed (P > 0.05) on actual milk yields. The treatments did not alter the milk composition (P > 0.05); except for when the protein in the milk was highest in the C. tropicalis KKU20 fed group. In conclusion, C. tropicalis KKU20 could enhance the RS’s nutrition value through increasing digestibility, the ruminal bacterial population, and total VFAs as well as could increase the milk protein.
Is It Time to Remove Radiotherapy in the Management of Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma? Population-based Study, Pool-Analysis and Retrospective Study of Recurrence Pattern.
Authors: Liu Rongping , Du Shasha , Qin Yue , Zhang Wan , Li Xuanzi , Guo Longbin , Chen Yulei , Gao Lianxuan , Tang Nan , Wu Dehua , Ren Chen
Published: January 2021

BackgroundBefore the introduction of the chemotherapeutic agent methotrexate, radiotherapy (RT) and steroids have been the sole, first-line treatment of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). With the application of methotrexate, the role of RT in the treatment of PCNSL has been challenged. MethodsWe performed observation analysis on 2,486 PCNSL patients between 1988 and 2016 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to ensure well-balanced characteristics of two groups of patients who received RT and those who did not receive it. Two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were pooled to further evaluate the role of consolidation whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) in PCNSL. To clarify whether WBRT is necessary for PCNSL, 27 relapsed patients who attained complete response (CR), partial response (PR) or stable disease (SD) during or after first-line treatment without WBRT for newly diagnosed PCNSL in our institution was retrospectively analyzed; the pattern and location of relapse was identified. ResultsAfter matching, there was no statistical difference on survival between the two groups. In patients did not received chemotherapy, RT significantly improved the survival of patients who undergone biopsy (All P < .0001) or subtotal resection (All P < .0001). In particular, RT helped improve survival for patients with other infectious and parasitic diseases including HIV (OIPDH). Pool-analysis shown the better progression free survival (PFS) of patients with WBRT arm compared with no WBRT arm in per-protocol (PP) population (HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.98). In the 27 relapse patients, 17 (63%) had new measurable enhancing lesions at relapse at a spatially distinct site, the remote recurrence after CR was 9/11 (82%), and after PR was 8/15 (53%). Single lesion occurred remote recurrence was 11/13 (85%), while multiple lesions were 7/14 (50%). We also established a novel prediction model with excellent performance to estimate the potential benefit from RT with respect to the end point of overall survival. ConclusionsRT is still an important method in the treatment of PCNSL, which cannot be removed. More precise studies should be carried out to perfect the treatment strategies of the disease.
Synergistic Effect of Pulsed Electric Fields and Temperature on The Inactivation of Microorganismsill
Authors: Yan Zeyao , Yin Li , Hao Chunjing , Liu Kefu , Qiu Jian
Published: January 2021

Pulsed electric fields (PEF) as a new pasteurization technology played an important role in the process of inactivating microorganisms. At the same time, temperature could promote the process of electroporation, and achieve better inactivation effect. This article studied the inactivation effect of PEF on Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus velezensis under different initial temperatures (room temperature-24°C, 30°C, 40°C, 50°C). From the inactivation results, it found temperature could reduce the critical electric field intensity for microbial inactivation. After the irreversible electroporation of microorganisms occurred, the nucleic acid content and protein content in the suspension increased with the inactivation rate because the cell membrane integrity was destroyed. We had proved that the electric field and temperature could promote molecular transport through the finite element simulation. Under the same initial temperature and electrical parameters (electric field intensity, pulse width, pulse number), the lethal effect on different microorganisms was Saccharomyces cerevisiae > Escherichia coli > Bacillus velezensis.
Content Validity of A Questionnaire Exploring the Knowledge Translation Network Among Nursing Professionals
Authors: MARTINEZ-GIMENO MARIA-LARA , ESCOBAR-AGUILAR GEMA , FERNÁNDEZ-MARTÍNEZ NÉLIDA , OVALLE-PERANDONES MARIA-ANTONIA , BENÍTEZ-ANDRADES JOSE-ALBERTO , MARQUÉS-SÁNCHEZ PILAR
Published: January 2021

Background: For more than four decades, studies have reported the existence of a large gap between research and clinical practice. This means that research results are not contributing to the improvement of care, and there is a high level of variability which complicates deciding on and implementing the “best care” available. In this context, it is important to understand how nurses use the research by generating different knowledge translation networks in clinical practice. Therefore, a tool is required to detect the structure of the links that are generated during the research utilization. Aim: to validate the content of a questionnaire for exploring the knowledge translation networks established among nursing professionals. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional content validity study of an instrument created to explore the knowledge translation network between nurses was carried out. The participants were divided into two groups: experts in Social Network Analysis (SNA) and practicing nurses. The instrument was a questionnaire with items that collected both the network's variables, and those of the individual. The content of the items of the questionnaire was validated as set out in the Content Validity Index (CVI). Results: The total Content Validity Index (CVI) of the survey was 0.91. All items received an excellent rating (K*>0.81). The modified kappa coefficient for the whole scale was 0.9. Conclusions: The validated questionnaire has good content validity for exploring social networks for knowledge translation and research utilization among nursing professionals.
Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Induce Cognitive Dysfunction of Rats with Endogenous Protective Mechanism of Increased miR-21-5p
Authors: Li Chao , Wei Fei , Shen Chengfeng , Wang Xiaoming , Gao Xiujie , Chen Zhaoli , Han Tie , Wang Xinxing
Published: January 2021

BackgroundTitanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) cause nerve cell damage and central nervous system dysfunction has been well known. However, most of the cognitive deficits occurs before the observable damage to nerve cells and the regulatory mechanism is largely unknown. Mitochondria and energy metabolism are the targets of many neurotoxic substances. ResultsHere, we showed that TiO2 NPs exposure reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and ATP content, which is the important cause of cognitive deficits, and upregulated microRNA-21-5p (miR-21-5p) levels in rat neuron cells. Upregulated miR-21-5p promoted phosphorylation of c-Jun, consequently promoting transcription of VDAC1 (encoding voltage-dependent anion channel 1), which in turn preserved the ΔΨm and ATP content of neuron cells. Conclusions﻿Mechanistically, upregulated VDAC1 was attributed to TiO2 NPs-induced phosphorylation of c-Jun (Ser73), which is predicted to be a transcription factor of VDAC1, while upregulation of the ΔΨm and ATP content was caused by the increased oxygen consumption rate induced by VDAC1. The results of our present study revealed an endogenous self-protection mechanism in the process of TiO2 NPs-induced cognitive deficits.
Plasma Interleukin-6 is a Potential Predictive Biomarker for Postoperative Delirium among Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Patients Treated with Open Surgical Repair
Authors: Lv Xiao-Chai , Lin Yong , Wu Qing-song , Wang Lei , Hou Yan-ting , Dong Yi , Chen Liang-wan
Published: January 2021

Objectives. The relationship between inflammatory cytokines and postoperative delirium (POD) remains to be further investigated, especially in patients undergoing acute type A aortic dissection (AAD). Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is involved in the inflammatory process and has recently been identified as a biomarker of cerebral dysfunction. We explored the hypothesis that IL-6 was one of the critical causes of POD after surgical repair of AAD.Methods. Plasma IL-6 was measured using electrochemiluminescence technology in patients preoperatively and 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h after surgical repair of acute type A aortic dissection. After the first three postoperative days, delirium was evaluated twice daily using the Confusion Assessment Method. ROC curves were used to evaluate the ability of IL-6 measurements to distinguish POD.Results. The incidence of POD was 14.03% (31 of 221 patients). The patients in the POD group were significantly older than the patients in the non-POD group (56.48±11.68 years vs 52.22±10.50 years, P=0.040). Plasma IL-6 concentrations were significantly higher in the POD group than in the non-POD group at three time points: preoperatively, after 24 h, and after 48 h. The AUC values corresponding to IL-6 preoperatively and 24 h after surgery were 0.73 and 0.72, respectively.Conclusions. Cerebral dysfunction after the surgical repair of AAD shows elevated stress levels and inflammatory responses. Plasma IL-6 is a potential biomarker to predict the onset of POD in acute type A aortic dissection patients following surgical repair.
Development of a Capability Maturity Model for the Establishment of Children’s Nursing Training Programmes in Southern and Eastern Africa 
Authors: North Natasha , Coetzee Minette
Published: January 2021

Background: Developing high-quality and sustainable training programmes to meet the increasing demand for specialist children’s nurses in African countries requires collaborative efforts by multiple stakeholders, systems and organisational tiers. This is made more challenging in the absence of a comprehensive framework for specialist nursing educational programme development. This project set out to develop a Capability Maturity Model in order to systematically describe the essential capacity required to establish a new specialist children’s nursing education programme in an African context. Methods: Previous Capability Maturity Models developed in the fields of nursing regulation and human resources for health information systems were used to guide the process of development. A six-stage process was followed to: identify necessary supportive conditions; specify levels of process maturity; develop domains; characterise levels of capability; consult with stakeholders; and finalise the model. Results: The process resulted in the identification of set of five step-wise progressions for each of five stakeholder activity domains, and the creation of a comprehensive Capability Maturity Model describing five levels of process maturity in relation to education, clinical and regulatory systems, human resources for health systems, and requirements related to overall stakeholder collaboration. Stakeholder consultation confirmed the accuracy and applicability of the model. Conclusions: The model successfully makes visible the wide range of regulatory and associated processes involved in developing a new educational programme for specialist nurses, including educational standards, quality assurance, scopes of practice, and systems for licensing and registering specialist children’s nurses. Stakeholders will be able to sue the model as a map to identify where they are in the process, and establish the resources and actions needed to make further progress.
High Performance Adaptive Maximum Power Point Tracking Technique for Off-Grid Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Mosaad Mohamed , Banakhr Fahd
Published: January 2021

Solar photovoltaic (PV) energy has met great attention in the electrical power generation field for its many advantages in both on and off-grid applications. The requirement for higher proficiency from the PV system to reap the energy requires maximum power point tracking techniques (MPPT). This paper presents an adaptive MPPT of a stand-alone PV system using an updated PI controller optimized by harmony search (HS). A lockup table is formed for the temperature and irradiance with the corresponding voltage at MPP (VMPP). This voltage is considered as the updated reference voltage required for MPP at each temperature and irradiance. The difference between this updated reference voltage at MPP and the variable PV voltage due to changing the environmental conditions is used to stimulate PI controller optimized by HS to update the duty cycle (D) of the DC-DC converter. Another lockup table is formed with the temperature, irradiance and the corresponding duty cycle at MPP to convert this MPP technique into an adaptive one. An experimental implementation of the proposed adaptive MPPT is introduced to test the validity of the simulation results obtained at different irradiance and temperature levels.
Amyloid Beta Exposure on Olfactory Ensheathing Cells Induces Different Expression Pattern of Tissue Transglutaminase and Its Isoforms: Modulatory Effect of Indicaxanthin
Authors: Campisi Agatina , Raciti Giuseppina , Sposito Giovanni , Grasso Rosaria , Chiacchio Maria Assunta , Spatuzza Michela , Attanzio Alessandro , Chiacchio Ugo , Tesoriere Luisa , Allegra Mario , Pellitteri Rosalia
Published: January 2021

Background
Alzhèimer Disease (AD) is characterized by intracellular and extracellular protein aggregates in the brain, including amyloid-beta (Aβ). Aβ is a substrate for tissue transglutaminase (TG2), an ubiquitarian calcium-dependent protein that induces Aβ oligomerization and aggregation. We assessed the effect of full native peptide of Aβ(1–42), the fragments (25–35 and 35–25) on TG2 expression levels and its isoforms (Long and Short) on Olfactory Ensheathing Cells (OECs). The levels of cytoskeletal proteins, Vimentin and Glial Fibrillary Acid Protein (GFAP), were also studied. The effect of the pre-treatment with Indicaxanthin on cell viability, total Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), superoxide anion (O2−) and apoptotic pathway activation was assessed. Since Nestin is co-expressed in pluripotent stem cells with cyclin D1, their levels were evaluated.
Methods
Mouse primary OECs were exposed to 10 µM Aβ(1–42) or Aβ(25–35) or Aβ(35–25) for 24 h both in the absence and in the presence of Indicaxanthin. TG2 and its isoforms were evaluated through Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy and Western Blot analysis. Data were statistically analysed using one-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc Holm–Sidak.
Results
Our findings highlight that OEC exposure to Aβ(1–42) and its fragments induced an increase of TG2 levels and the different expression pattern of its isoforms. Indicaxanthin pre-treatment reduced TG2 over-expression differently modulating its isoforms, following Aβ exposure of the cells. It was also able to prevent total ROS and O2−production, to reduce GFAP and Vimentin levels, inhibiting apoptotic pathway activation. It also leaded to an increase of Nestin and cyclin D1 expression levels.
Conclusions
Our results show that Aβ exposure on OECs induces an increase of TG2 levels and a different expression pattern of its isoforms and that Indicaxanthin pre-treatment stimulates OEC self-renewal through the reparative activity played by TG2. They also suggest that Aβ in OECs, both in the absence and in the presence of Indicaxanthin, might differently induce the transition of TG2 between “closed” and “open” conformation, providing a new mechanism involved in the signal pathways activated by the protein in Aβ injury important for neural regeneration of AD.
Oropharyngeal Administration of Colostrum for Preventing Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Late-onset Sepsis in Preterm Infants with Gestational Age ≤ 32 Weeks: A Single-center Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: ouyang xia , yang changyi , xiu wenlong , hu yanhua , mei susu , lin qin
Published: January 2021

BackgroundOropharyngeal administration of colostrum (OAC) may provide immunoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects that potentially reduce the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and late-onset sepsis (LOS) and improve short-term outcomes.ObjectiveTo evaluate the role of OAC in the early prevention of NEC and LOS in preterm infants with gestational age (GA) ≤ 32 weeks.MethodsA randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in a 40-bed tertiary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in China. Preterm infants with GA ≤ 32 weeks were divided randomly into an OAC group, which received 0.4 ml maternal colostrum smearing via the oropharyngeal route every 3 hours for 10 days beginning within the first 48 hours after birth, and a control group, which received normal saline instead. Data from the two groups were collected and compared.ResultsA total of 127 patients in the OAC group and 125 patients in the control group were finally enrolled. The incidence of NEC (Bell stage 2 or 3) and LOS was lower in the OAC group [2.4% vs. 10.4%, χ2 = 6.845, ༰=0.009; 4.7% vs. 13.6%, χ2 = 5.983, ༰=0.014]. In addition, the incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (stage 3 or 4) was lower [1.6% vs. 7.2%,χ2 = 4.775, ༰=0.029], and the time of achieving full enteral feeding was shorter [ 22.0 days vs. 25.0 days༌Z = 6༌424.500༌P = 0.009)] in the OAC group. No cases of adverse reactions were observed in either group.ConclusionsOAC is a safe and simple NICU procedure that yields a potential advantage in decreasing the incidence of NEC, LOS, and severe IVH and shortening the time to achieve full enteral feeding in preterm infants with GA ≤ 32 weeks.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1900023697, Registered 8 June 2019, Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx? pid = 39398
Efficacy of different brands of penicillin-streptomycin against Staphylococcus aureus: the clinicians’ myths and the realities
Authors: Tufa Takele Beyene , Guta Asegid , Tufa Tafese Beyene , Nigussie Dereje , Regassa Fikru , Beyi Ashenafi Feyisa
Published: January 2021

Background

Antibiotics must be safe, effective and have acceptable quality to use in both human and veterinary medicine. A cross-sectional study was conducted with the aim of evaluating in vitro efficacy of three brands of penicillin-streptomycin (penstrep) against Staphylococcus aureus isolated from dairy cow milk in Sebeta and Bishoftu, Ethiopia. A standardized questionnaire was also used to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of veterinarians about brand antibiotics prescribing in dairy farms in the study area.
Results

A total of 43 S. aureus were isolated from 23 dairy farms. Thirty-three (81.4%) and 10 (23.3%) isolates were susceptible to brand A and intermediate susceptible to brand B, respectively, whereas only one isolate (2.3%) was intermediate susceptible to brand C. The isolates were also tested against the standard discs of penicillin and streptomycin, and the results showed that 42 (97.7%) and 27 (62.8%) of S. aureus were resistant, respectively. The KAP assessment showed penstrep was the most prescribed antibiotic in the dairy farms in the study area, followed by oxytetracycline and sulfa drugs. All veterinarians (100%, 30) agreed that antibiotics imported from Western countries perceived as having higher efficacy than those imported from eastern countries. Similarly, they preferred to use brand A, claiming better clinical improvements compared to the other two brands. The majority (86.7%) and more than half (53.3%) of the respondents agreed on the perception of overuse of antibiotics in veterinary clinics and dairy farms, respectively.
Conclusions

Penstrep Brand A has had better in vitro efficacy, while brands B and C have not been effective against S. aureus isolates. Moreover, this study revealed that a fixed combination dosage form of penicillin and streptomycin in brand A showed better efficacy towards S. aureus isolates compared to penicillin or streptomycin alone. The perception of the veterinarian about these brands agrees with the in-vitro antibacterial efficacy evaluation. The findings suggest that ineffective brands of penstrep are circulating in the local market, which constitute a potential danger to both human and animal health. Our findings warrant the need for stringent regulation and quality assessment criteria for imported veterinary antimicrobials.
Prevalence, Risk factors and Antibiogram analysis of Nosocomial Infection in Tertiary Care Hospital of Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Jadoon , Ahmad Israr , Basharat Nosheen , Khan Alam , Sadiq Asma , Ali Shahid , Sohail Muhammad , Khan Allah Nawaz , Ahmad Ijaz , saddam saddam , Aziz Aamir , Khan Hayat , Ali Ijaz
Published: January 2021

BackgroundNosocomial infections are a global health problem, affecting 1.4 million people in treatment centers, responsible for 80,000 estimated annual deaths. The current study aimed to assess the factor influencing nosocomial infections and to choose the best antibiotic for its treatment through culture analysis.MethodologyThe current study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital Rawalpindi. A total of 120 patients with at least one nosocomial episode were included. Blood, urine, and wound swab sample were collected for hematology, biochemistry, electrolyte, and microbial analysis. Multivariate regression analysis through SPSS (ver. 16.0) were done, p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultThe prevalence of culture-confirmed nosocomial infection was 25%, among which age groups (P = 0.00, 95% CI, − .382-.271) were significantly correlated. Hematological analysis shows that 73.3% have lymphopenia (P = 0.00, 95% CI .567-1.175), 73.3% have Neutrocytosis (P = 0.00, 95% CI .553-1.122) and anemia (26.7%) (P = 0.002, 95% CI .097-.404) were statistically significant. Raised level of ALT (60%), Bilirubin (26.7%) and ALP (13.3%) among liver functional tests (P = 0.68, 95% CI .686- .280) found insignificant however abnormal level of urea (33.3%) and creatinine (46.7%) (P = 0.00, 95% CI -1.227-.392) were significantly correlated with nosocomial infections. Electrolytes profile shows that Hypernatremia (26.7%) (P = 0.000, 95% CI-.491–.227) were strongly correlated. Culture analysis isolated six bacterial agents, comprising 83.3%:16.6% ratio of gram-negative and gram-positive isolates. Klebsiella pneumonia was frequently isolated gram-negative, while Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus was the only gram-positive isolate collected. Urinary tract infection (UTI) (36.6%) was frequently found, followed by bloodstream infection (26.6%) (BSI). The majority of the gram-negative isolates were sensitive to Imipenem while resistant to Amoxicillin + Clavulanic acid, Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, cefoxitin, Levofloxacin, Norfloxacin, and linezolid antibiotics. Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus was found sensitive against Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole while resistant towards linezolid, Imipenem, and Cefotaxime.ConclusionThe current study revealed that nosocomial infection is still prevalent in our hospital environment and the leading cause of drug resistance and dysfunctions of various factors like WBCs, LFTs, RFTs, electrolytes, coagulation factors and anemia, which can lead to morbidity and mortality.
Pathogens Distribution and Antimicrobial Resistance in Bloodstream Infections in Twenty-Five Neonatal Intensive Care Units in China, 2017-2019
Authors: Liu Jing , Fang Zengyu , Yu Yonghui , Ding Yanjie , Liu Zhijie , Zhang Chengyuan , He Haiying , Geng Hongli , Chen Weibing , Zhao Guoying , Liu Qiang , Wang Baoying , Sun Xueming , Wang Shaofeng , Sun Rongrong , Fu Delong , Liu Xinjian , Huang Lei , Li Jing , Xing Xuexue , Wang Xiaokang , Gao Yanling , Zhu Renxia , Han Meiying , Peng Fudong , Geng Min , Deng Liping
Published: January 2021

BackgroundOvercrowding, abuse of antibiotics and increase of antimicrobial resistance negatively affect neonatal survival rates in developing countries. We aimed to define pathogens and their antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of early-onset sepsis (EOS), hospital-acquired late-onset sepsis (HALOS) and community-acquired late-onset sepsis (CALOS) in 25 neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in China.Study designThis retrospective descriptive study included pathogens and their AMR from all neonates with bloodstream infections (BSIs) admitted to 25 tertiary hospitals in China from January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019. We defined EOS as the occurrence of BSI at or before 72 hours of life and late-onset sepsis (LOS) if BSI occurred after 72 hours of life. LOS were classified as CALOS if occurrence of BSI was ≤ 48 hours after admission, and HALOS, if occurrence was > 48 hours after admission.Results1092 pathogens of BSIs collected from 25 NICUs including 349 EOS isolates, 702 HALOS isolates and 41 CALOS isolates. Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) dominated in EOS (56.7%) and HALOS (62.2%). The most frequent pathogens causing EOS were Escherichia coli (27.2%) and group B streptococcus (GBS; 14.6%) whereas in CALOS they were GBS (46.3%) and Staphylococcus aureus (41.5%). Klebsiella pneumonia (27.9%), Escherichia coli (15.7%) and fungi (12.8%) were the top three isolates in HALOS. Third-generation cephalosporin resistance rates in GNB ranged from 9.7–55.6% in EOS and 26–63.3% in HALOS. Carbapenem resistance rates in GNB ranged from 2.7–31.3% in HALOS and only six isolates in EOS were carbapenem resistant. High rates of multidrug resistance were observed in Klebsiella pneumonia (60.7%) in HALOS and in Escherichia coli (44.4%) in EOS. All gram-positive bacteria were susceptible to vancomycin except for three Enterococcus faecalis in HALOS. The adverse outcome rates in HALOS were high, ranging from 4.6–16.2%.ConclusionsEscherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia and GBS were the leading pathogens in EOS, HALOS and CALOS, respectively. The high proportion of pathogens, high degree of antimicrobial resistance and high proportion of adverse outcomes in HALOS underscore understanding of the pathogenesis and devise effective interventions in developing countries.
The Dynamics of a Stochastic SEITRmodel for Tuberculosis with Incomplete Treatment
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Wang Chunxia , wang k
Published: January 2021

In this paper, a stochastic SEITR model is formulated to describe the transmission dynamics of tuberculosis with incompletely treated. Sufficient conditions for the existence of a stationary distribution and extinction are obtained. In addition, numerical simulations are given to illustrate these analytical results. Theoretical and numerical results show that large environmental perturbations can inhibit the spread of tuberculosis.
Scutellaria Polysaccharide Mediates the Immunity and Antioxidant Capacity of the Giant Freshwater Prawn (Macrobrachium Rosenbergii)
Authors: Sun Lindan , Lin Feng , Zhang Yulei , Qin Zhendong , Shi Fei , Su Youlu , Liu Chun , Zhao Lijuan , Li Jun , Chen Keping , Lin Li
Published: January 2021

Background: The giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) is a commercially valuable freshwater crustacean species that is cultivated throughout the world. M. rosenbergii is frequently affected by a variety of diseases. Therefore, feed additive research is necessary to improve the immunity and survival rate of M. rosenbergii. Scutellaria polysaccharide (SPS) extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis (a Chinese medicinal herb) can enhance the antioxidant ability of organisms. Methods: In this study, M. rosenbergii were fed with 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 150 mg/kg of SPS. Following a four-week feeding trial, SPS had no positive effect on the growth of M. rosenbergii compared with the control group. Then, the immunity and antioxidant capacity of M. rosenbergii were tested by qRT-PCR and enzyme activities. Results: The results showed that the expressions of prophenoloxidase (proPO) and toll receptor (Toll-R) mRNA showed no changes in hemocytes of M. rosenbergii. However, the expressions of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) mRNA were up-regulated during the first two weeks of culture and were down-regulated in weeks 3 and 4. The mRNA expressions of HSP70, NF-κB, and Toll-R (participating in the immune response) in heart, muscle, and hepatopancreas were decreased after four weeks of SPS feeding. This indicated that long-term feeding of SPS could regulate the immune responses of M. rosenbergii. The activity levels of antioxidant biomarkers, alkaline phosphatase (ACP), acid phosphatase (AKP), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), in hemocytes, heart, muscle, and hepatopancreas increased during the feeding time, indicating that the antioxidant capacity of M. rosenbergii was improved by SPS supplementation in the feed. Conclusions: In summary, SPS was conducive to enhancing the antioxidant capacity of M. rosenbergii. These results provide a theoretical basis in supporting of SPS addition to the feed of M. rosenbergii.
Host-cell recognition through GRP78 is enhanced in the new UK variant of SARS-CoV-2, in silico 
Authors: Elfiky Abdo A , Ibrahim Ibrahim M
Published: January 2021

New SARS-CoV-2 variant VUI 202012/01 started in the UK and currently spreading in Europe and Australia during the last few days. The new variant bears about nine mutations in the spike protein (Δ69-70, Δ145, N501Y, A570D, D614G, P681H, T716I, S982A, and D1118H). The N501Y lies in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike and interacts with the host-cell receptor ACE2 responsible for viral recognition and entry. We tried to simulate the system of ACE2-SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD in the wildtype and mutated isoform of the RBD (N501Y). Additionally, the GRP78 association with the ACE2-SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD is modeled at the presence of this mutant variant of the viral spike.
High prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni CC21 and CC257 clonal complexes in children with gastroenteritis in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Sarhangi Mahnaz , Bakhshi Bita , Peeraeyeh Shahin Najar
Published: January 2021

Background: Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in human worldwide. The aim of study was to assess the distribution of sialylated lipooligosaccharide (LOS) classes and capsular genotypes in C. jejuni isolated from Iranian children with gastroenteritis. Furthermore, the level of dnaK gene expression in C. jejuni strains with selected capsular genotypes and LOS classes was intended. Moreover, a comprehensive study of C. jejuni MLST-genotypes and inclusive comparison with peer sequences worldwide was intended.Methods: Twenty clinical C. jejuni strains were isolated from fecal specimens of 280 children aged 0-5 years, suspected of bacterial gastroenteritis, which admitted to 3 children hospitals from May to October, 2018. Distribution of sialylated LOS classes and specific capsular genotypes were investigated in C. jejuni of clinical origin. The expression of dnaK in C. jejuni strains was measured by Real-Time-PCR. MLST-genotyping was performed to investigate the clonal relationship of clinical C. jejuni strains and comparison with inclusive sequences worldwide.Results: C. jejuni HS23/36c was the predominant genotype (45%), followed by HS2 (20%), and HS19 and HS4 (each 10%). A total of 80% of isolates were assigned to LOS class B and C. Higher expression level of dnaK gene was detected in strains with HS23/36c, HS2 and HS4 capsular genotypes and sialylated LOS classes B or C. MLST analysis showed that isolates were highly diverse and represented 6 different sequence types (STs) and 3 clonal complexes (CCs). CC21 and CC257 were the most dominant CCs (75%) among our C. jejuni strains. No new ST and no common ST with our neighbor countries was detected. Conclusions: The C. jejuni isolates with LOS class B or C, and capsular genotypes of HS23/36, HS2, HS4 and HS19 were dominant in population under study. The CC21 and CC257 were the largest CCs among our isolates. In overall picture, CC21 and CC353 complexes were the most frequently and widely distributed clonal complexes worldwide, although members of CC353 were not detected in our isolates. This provides a universal picture of movement of dominant Campylobacter strains worldwide.
Improvements in French Risk Stratification Score were Correlated with Reductions in Mean Pulmonary Artery Pressure in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Subanalysis of the Japan Pulmonary Hypertension Registry (JAPHR)
Authors: Tamura Yuichi , Kumamaru Hiraku , Abe Kohtaro , Satoh Toru , Miyata Hiroaki , Ogawa Aiko , Tanabe Nobuhiro , Hatano Masaru , Yao Atsushi , Tsujino Ichizo , Fukuda Keiichi , Kimura Hiroshi , Kuwana Masataka , Matsubara Hiromi , Tatsumi Koichiro
Published: January 2021

BackgroundSince there was no previous report, we analyzed the relationship between French Risk Stratification parameters in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and mean pulmonary arterial pressures (mPAP) using Japan PH Registry (JAPHR) national-wide cohort.MethodsWe enrolled 108 patients with PAH from JAPHR from previous reported cohort and analyzed the relations between French Risk Stratification scores and hemodynamic improvements.ResultsThe ratio meeting 0 to 4 French Risk Stratification score was 21.3%, 31.5%, 32.4%, 13.0%, and 1.9% at baseline, and 6.5%, 23.2%, 33.3%, 23.2%, 13.9% at follow-up, respectively. The improvements in the number of criteria met were associated both with mPAP at follow-up (p=0.03) and with the improvements in mPAP (p<0.001).ConclusionThe improvements in French Risk Stratification may become a marker of improved hemodynamics including mPAP.
Giving women WOICE postpartum: Prevalence of maternal morbidity in high-risk pregnancies using the WHO-WOICE instrument
Authors: Lamus Martha Narvaez , Lozano Stephanie , MPoca Charles , Guida Jose Paulo , Parpinelli Mary Angela , Cecatti Jose Guilherme , Vidarte Maria Escobar , Say Lale , Chou Doris , Costa Maria Laura
Published: January 2021

Background: There are no accurate estimates of the prevalence of non-severe maternal morbidities. Given the lack of instruments to fully assess these morbidities, the World Health Organization (WHO) developed an instrument called WOICE. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of non-severe maternal morbidities in puerperal women and factors associated to impaired clinical, social and mental health conditions. Method: A cross-sectional study with postpartum women at a high-risk outpatient clinic in southeast Brazil, from November 2017 to December 2018. The WOICE questionnaire included three sections: the first with maternal and obstetric history, sociodemographic data, risk and environment factors, violence and sexual health; the second considers functionality and disability, general symptoms and mental health; and the third includes data on physical and laboratory tests. Data collection was supported by Tablets with REDCAP software. Initially, a descriptive analysis was performed, with general prevalence of all variables contained in the WOICE, including scales on anxiety and depression (GAD-7 and PHQ-9- impaired if ≥10), functionality (WHODAS- high disability scores when ≥37.4) and data on violence and substance use. Subsequently, an evaluation of cases with positive findings was performed, with a Poisson regression to investigate factors associated to impaired non-clinical and clinical conditions. Results: 517 women were included, majority (54.3%) multiparous, between 20 and 34 years (65.4%) and with a partner (75,6%). Over a quarter had (26.2%) preterm birth. Around a third (30.2%) reported health problems informed by the physician, although more than 80% considered having good or very good health. About 10% reported any substance use and 5.9% reported exposure to violence. Anxiety was identified in 19.8% of cases, depression in 36.9% and impaired functioning in 4.4% of women. Poisson regression identified that poor overall health rating was associated to increased anxiety/depression and impaired functioning. Having a partner reduced perception of women on the presence of clinical morbidities. Conclusion: During postpartum care of a high-risk population, over one third of the considered women presented anxiety and depression; 10% reported substance use and around 6% exposure to violence. These aspects of women´s health need further evaluation and specific interventions to improve quality of care.
Soil fertilization affects the abundance and distribution of carbon and nitrogen cycling genes in the maize rhizosphere
Authors: Enebe Matthew Chekwube , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: January 2021

Soil microbes perform important functions in nitrogen and carbon cycling in the biosphere. Microbial communities in the rhizosphere enhance plants’ health and promote nutrient turnover and cycling in the soil. In this study, we evaluated the effects of soil fertilization with organic and inorganic fertilizers on the abundances and distribution of carbon and nitrogen cycling genes within the rhizosphere of maize plants. Our result showed that maize plants through rhizosphere effects selected and enriched the same functional genes glnA, gltB, gudB involved in nitrogen cycle as do high compost and low inorganic fertilizer treatments. This observation was significantly different from those of high doses of inorganic fertilizer and low compost manure treated soil. Only alpha amylase encoding genes were selectively enriched by low compost and high inorganic fertilized soil. The other treatments only selected xynB (in Cp8), lacZ (Cp4), bglA, pldB, trpA (N2), uidA (N1) and glgC, vanA (Cn0) carbon cycling genes in the rhizosphere of maize. Also Actinomycetales are selected by high compost, low inorganic fertilizer and control. The control was without any fertilization and the soil was planted with maize. Bacillales are also promoted by low compost and high inorganic fertilizer. This indicated that only microbes capable of tolerating the stress of high dose of inorganic fertilizer will thrive under such condition. Therefore, soil fertilization lowers nitrogen gas emission as seen with the high abundance of nitrogen assimilation genes or microbial anabolic genes, but increases carbon dioxide evolution in the agricultural soil by promoting the abundance of catabolic genes involve in carbon cycling.
Feasibility study protocol of a pragmatic, randomised controlled pilot trial: Membrane sweeping to prevent post-term pregnancy: The MILO Study
Authors: Finucane Elaine , Biesty Linda , Murphy Deirdre J , Cotter Amanda , Molloy Eleanor J , O’Donnell Martin , Treweek Shaun , Gillespie Paddy , Campbell Marian , Morrison John J. , Alvarez-Iglesias Alberto , Gyte Gill , Devane Declan
Published: January 2021

Background Post-term pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of maternal complications, respiratory distress and trauma to the neonate. Amniotic membrane sweeping has been recommended as a simple procedure to promote the spontaneous onset of labour. However, despite its widespread use, there is an absence of evidence on a) its effectiveness and b) its optimal timing and frequency. The primary aim of the MILO study is to inform the optimal design of a future definitive randomised trial to evaluate the effectiveness (including optimal timing and frequency) of membrane sweeping to prevent post-term pregnancy. We will also assess the acceptability and feasibility of the proposed trial interventions to clinicians and women (through focus group interviews).Methods/Design Multicentre, pragmatic, parallel group, pilot randomised controlled trial with an embedded factorial design. Pregnant women with a live, singleton fetus ≥ 38 weeks gestation, cephalic presentation, longitudinal lie, intact membranes, English speaking and ≥18 years of age will be randomised in a 2:1 ratio to:Membrane sweep versus no membrane sweep Women allocated randomly to a sweep will then be randomised further (factorial component) to:early (from 39 weeks) versus late (from 40 weeks) sweep commencement; and a single verses weekly sweep The proposed feasibility study consists of four work packages i.e., (1) a multicentre, pilot randomised trial, 2) a health economic analysis and 3) a qualitative study (4) a study within the host trial (a SWAT). Outcomes to be collected include: recruitment and retention rates, compliance with protocol, randomisation and allocation processes, attrition rates and cost-effectiveness. Focus groups will be held with women and clinicians to explore the acceptability and feasibility of the proposed intervention, study procedures and perceived barriers and enablers to recruitment.Discussion The primary aim of the MILO study is to inform the optimal design of a future definitive randomised trial to evaluate the effectiveness (including optimal timing and frequency) of membrane sweeping to prevent post-term pregnancy. Results will inform whether and how the design of the definitive trial as originally envisaged should be delivered or adapted.Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT04307199. Registered 12th March 2020. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04307199?id=NCT04307199&draw=2&rank=1
Comparison of different detection methods for Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children with community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Tang Mingyu , Wang Dong , Tong Xing , Zhang Jing , Zhang Lei , Wu Yufen , Cao Qing , Yin Yong
Published: January 2021

Background: Due to the lack of a sensitive, specific and rapid detection method, aetiological diagnosis of pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae, MP) is a constantly challenging issue. This retrospective study aimed to compare the diagnostic methods for Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children and evaluate their values.Methods: From November 2018 to June 2019, 830 children with community-acquired pneumonia were selected from the Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center. On the first day of hospitalization, sputum, throat swab and venous blood samples were collected to analyse MP-IgM (particle agglutination, PA), MP-IgM (immune colloidal gold technique, GICT), MP-DNA, MP-RNA (simultaneous amplification and testing, SAT) and MP-DNA (real-time polymerase chain reaction, RT-PCR).Results: Among these 830 children, RT-PCR showed that the positive rate was 36.6% (304/830), in which the positive rate of macrolide resistance (A2063G mutation) accounted for 86.2% of cases (262/304). Using RT-PCR as the standard, MP-RNA (SAT) had the highest specificity (97.5%), and MP-IgM (PA) had the highest sensitivity (74.0%) and Youden index (53.7%). If MP-RNA (SAT) was combined with MP-IgM (PA), its Kappa value (0.602), sensitivity (84.2%), specificity (78.7%) and Youden index (62.9%) were higher than those of single M. pneumoniae detection.Conclusions: Our research indicated that a combination of MP-RNA (SAT) plus MP-IgM (PA) might lead to reliable results as an early diagnostic method for children with clinical manifestations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.
The Hiv Epidemic in Colombia: Spatial and Temporal Trends Analysis
Authors: Montana Jhon Freddy , Ferreira Glenda Roberta Oliveira Naiff , Cunha Carlos Leonardo Figueiredo , de Queiroz Ana Angelica Rego , Fernandes Wellington Augusto Andrade , Polaro Sandra Helena Isse , Gonçalves Lucia Hisako Takase , Couto Danielle Costa Carrara , Gir Elucir , Reis Renata Karina , Sorensen Wiliam , Botelho Elia Pinheiro
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND – Colombia has the fourth highest incidence rate of HIV/AIDS among all Latin American countries and it has been increasing since the 1980s. However, the number of studies that addresses this trend is limited. Here, we employed spatial and temporal trend analyses to study the behaviour of the epidemic in the Colombian territory. METHODS – Our sample included 72,994 cases of HIV/AIDS and 21,898 AIDS-related deaths reported to the National Ministry of Health between 2008 and 2016. We employed the joinpoint regression model to analyse the annual HIV/AIDS incidence and AIDS mortality rates. In the spatial analysis, we used univariate autocorrelation techniques and the Kernel density estimator. RESULTS – While the HIV/AIDS incidence had an increasing trend in Colombia, the AIDS mortality rate was stable. HIV/AIDS incidence and AIDS mortality showed a downward trend in the 0–14 age group. An upward trend was observed for HIV/AIDS incidence in people older than 15 years and with the highest trend in the 65 years and above group. AIDS mortality showed an increasing trend among people aged 65 years or older. The comparison between the sexes showed an upward trend of HIV/AIDS incidence in all age groups and AIDS-mortality rates in 65 years and above in men, while in women, the incidence was upward among those aged 45 years and above, and concerning the AIDS-mortality rate in the 45–64 group. The high–high clusters of HIV/AIDS incidence and AIDS mortality were located in the Andean and Caribbean regions. CONCLUSION – Our study found an upward trend in HIV/AIDS incidence and a stable trend in the AIDS mortality rate in Colombia. The downward trend in HIV/AIDS incidence and AIDS mortality rate in the 0–14 age group reflects the downwards mother-to-child HIV transmission. The upward trend in HIV/AIDS incidence in older women and AIDS mortality in younger women rates, compared with men, may be due to late diagnosis and treatment. The Caribbean and the ‘coffee belt’ regions were the most impacted by the HIV epidemic, most likely due to sexual tourism. Our results provide crucial information that may help Colombian health authorities fight HIV transmission.