bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of applicability of the online version of HADS-D for depression phenotype screening in the general population
Authors: Kibitov AA , Rakitko AS , Kasyanov ED , Rukavishnikov GV , Kozlova KA , Ilinsky VV , Neznanov NG , Mazo GE , Kibitov AO 
Published: October 2020

One of the most promising areas of research into the biological underpinnings of depression is genetic studies. However, the absence of generally accepted phenotyping methods leads to the difficulties in generalizing their results due to the heterogeneity of the samples. Thus, the development of a reliable and convenient phenotyping method that allows large sample sizes to be included in studies remains a top priority for the further development of genetic studies of depression.The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of the online version of the depression subscale of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-D) for depression phenotype screening in the general population. Using online HADS-D we performed screening of depressive symptoms and compared results with known population patterns of depression.We conducted an online survey of 2610 Russian-speaking respondents over the age of 18. The overall HADS-D score was higher in women (p=0.003), in individuals under 30 y.o compared to participants over 42 y.o. (p=0.004) and in individuals reporting cardiovascular diseases (CVD) symptoms (p<0.0001).Linear regression showed that the presence of CVD leads to higher HADS-D scores (p<0.001), male gender (p=0.002) and older age (p<0.001) led to lower scores. Logistic regression showed that CVD increases the risk of having depression symptoms by HADS-D (p=0.033, OR=1.29), older age (p=0.015, OR=0.87) and male sex (as a trend, p=0.052, OR=0.80) decrease this risk.These results are consistent with the known data on the association of sex, age, and the presence of CVD with the prevalence of depression. The online version of HADS-D, given the ease of its usage, can be regarded as an effective tool for phenotyping depression in the general population.
CLINICAL COURSE AND OUTCOME OF COVID-19 ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME: DATA FROM A NATIONAL REPOSITORY
Authors: El-Solh Ali A. , Meduri Umberto G. , Lawson Yolanda , Carter Michael , Mergenhagen Kari A. 
Published: October 2020

ABSTRACTBackgroundMortality attributable to coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) 2 infection occurs mainly through the development of viral pneumonia-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).Research QuestionThe objective of the study is to delineate the clinical profile, predictors of disease progression, and 30-day mortality from ARDS using the Veterans Affairs Corporate Data Warehouse.Study Design and MethodsAnalysis of a historical cohort of 7,816 hospitalized patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection between January 1, 2020, and August 1, 2020. Main outcomes were progression to ARDS and 30-day mortality from ARDS, respectively.ResultsThe cohort was comprised predominantly of men (94.5%) with a median age of 69 years (interquartile range [IQR] 60-74 years). 2,184 (28%) were admitted to the intensive care unit and 643 (29.4%) were diagnosed with ARDS. The median Charlson Index was 3 (IQR 1-5). Independent predictors of progression to ARDS were body mass index (BMI)≥ 40 kg/m2, diabetes, lymphocyte counts<700×109/L, LDH>450 U/L, ferritin >862 ng/ml, C-reactive protein >11 mg/dL, and D-dimer >1.5 ug/ml. In contrast, the use of an anticoagulant lowered the risk of developing ARDS (OR 0.66 [95% CI 0.49-0.89]. Crude 30-day mortality rate from ARDS was 41% (95% CI 38%-45%). Risk of death from ARDS was significantly higher in those who developed acute renal failure and septic shock. Use of an anticoagulant was associated with two-fold reduction in mortality. Survival benefit was observed in patients who received corticosteroids and/or remdesivir but there was no advantage of combination therapy over either agent alone.ConclusionsAmong those hospitalized for COVID-19, nearly one in ten progressed to ARDS. Septic shock, and acute renal failure are the leading causes of death in these patients. Treatment with either remdesivir and corticosteroids reduced the risk of mortality from ARDS. All hospitalized patients with COVID-19 should be placed at a minimum on prophylactic doses of anticoagulation.
Corticosteroids reduce vascular ultrasound sensitivity even with short duration: results from Coventry Multi-Disciplinary Fast Track Pathway for management of Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Pinnell Jonathan , Mehta Purnima , Tiivas Carl , Dubey Shirish 
Published: October 2020

AbstractIntroductionGiant cell arteritis (GCA) is a common form of vasculitis and can result in permanent visual loss and other complications. The advent of vascular Doppler ultrasound (US) has provided a new means for early diagnosis for these patients although it is affected by introduction of corticosteroids (CS). The Coventry multidisciplinary fast track (FTGCA) pathway was set up in 2013 in collaboration with vascular physiology and ophthalmology with a view to enabling prompt multidisciplinary assessment.ObjectivesThis study aims to assess feasibility of this novel pathway and to assess the impact of CS use on the performance of US in a real life cohort.MethodsData were collected retrospectively for patients who attended the Coventry FTGCA pathway between 1st Jan 2014 to 31st December 2017. Patients were identified from US lists and clinical details were obtained from electronic medical records. Ethical approval was obtained from Research and Development department.Results620 eligible patients were included in this study. The pathway overall performed well with significant reduction in patients needing CS. US had sensitivity of 50% which improved further to ∼56% in CS naïve patients although median duration of CS use was 2 days. US specificity was >96%, and we were able to avoid using CS completely in 451 patients (73%). CS negatively impacted on utility of US with US more likely to be false negative.ConclusionsThis novel pathway demonstrates the ability to minimise use of CS through fast track multidisciplinary assessment. US was performed promptly and had reassuring real life sensitivity and specificity in this cohort. CS naïve patients showed significantly higher sensitivity for US despite the short duration of CS use.
Association between live childhood vaccines and COVID-19 outcomes: a national-level analysis
Authors: Ogimi Chikara , Qu Pingping , Boeckh Michael , Bender Ignacio Rachel A. , Zangeneh Sahar Z. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractWe investigated whether countries with higher coverage of childhood live vaccines [BCG or measles-containing-vaccine (MCV)] have reduced risk of COVID-19 related mortality, accounting for known systems differences between countries. In this ecological study of 140 countries using publicly available national-level data, higher vaccine coverage, representing estimated proportion of people vaccinated during the last 15 years, was associated with lower COVID-19 deaths. The associations attenuated for both vaccine variables, and MCV coverage became no longer significant once adjusted for a validated summary score accounting for life expectancy and healthcare quality indicators, the Healthcare access and quality index (HAQI). The magnitude of association between BCG coverage and COVID-19 death rate varied according to HAQI, and MCV coverage had little effect on the association between BCG and COVID-19 deaths. While there are associations between live vaccine coverage and COVID-19 outcomes, the vaccine coverage variables themselves were strongly correlated with COVID-19 testing rate, HAQI, and life expectancy. This suggests that the population-level associations may be further confounded by differences in structural health systems and policies. Cluster randomized studies of booster vaccines would be ideal to evaluate the efficacy of trained immunity in preventing COVID-19 infections and mortality in vaccinated individuals and on community transmission.
A laboratory module that explores RNA interference and codon optimization through fluorescence microscopy usingCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Palmisano Nicholas J. , Azmi Maryam A. , Medwig-Kinney Taylor N. , Moore Frances E. Q. , Rahman Rumana , Zhang Wan , Adikes Rebecca C. , Matus David Q. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractScientific research experiences are beneficial to students allowing them to gain laboratory and problem-solving skills, as well as foundational research skills in a team-based setting. We designed a laboratory module to provide a guided research experience to stimulate curiosity, introduce students to experimental techniques, and provide students with foundational skills needed for higher levels of guided inquiry. In this laboratory module, students learn about RNA interference (RNAi) and codon optimization using the research organismCaenorhabditis elegans(C. elegans). Students are given the opportunity to perform a commonly used method of gene downregulation inC. eleganswhere they visualize gene depletion using fluorescence microscopy and quantify the efficacy of depletion using quantitative image analysis. The module presented here educates students on how to report their results and findings by generating publication quality figures and figure legends. The activities outlined exemplify ways by which students can improve their critical thinking, data interpretation, and technical skills, all of which are beneficial for future laboratory classes, independent inquiry-based research projects, and careers in the life sciences and beyond.
Monitoring for outbreak associated excess mortality in an African city: Detection limits in Antananarivo, Madagascar
Authors: Rasambainarivo Fidisoa , Rasoanomenjanahary Anjarasoa , Rabarison Joelinotahiana Hasina , Ramiadantsoa Tanjona , Ratovoson Rila , Randremanana Rindra , Randrianarisoa Santatriniaina , Rajeev Malavika , Masquelier Bruno , Heraud Jean Michel , Metcalf C. Jessica E. , Rice Benjamin L. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractQuantitative estimates of the impact of infectious disease outbreaks are required to develop measured policy responses. In many low- and middle-income countries, inadequate surveillance and incompleteness of death registration are important barriers. Here, we characterize how large an impact on mortality would have to be to be detectable using the uniquely detailed mortality notification data from the city of Antananarivo in Madagascar, with application to a recent measles outbreak. The weekly mortality rate of children during the 2018-2019 measles outbreak was 154% above the expected value at its peak, and the signal can be detected earlier in children than in the general population. This approach to detecting anomalies from expected baseline mortality allows us to delineate the prevalence of COVID-19 at which excess mortality would be detectable with the existing death notification system in the capital of Madagascar. Given current age-specific estimates of the COVID-19 fatality ratio and the age structure of the population in Antananarivo, we estimate that as few as 11 deaths per week in the 60-70 years age group (corresponding to an infection rate of approximately 1%) would detectably exceed the baseline. Data from 2020 will undergo necessary processing and quality control in the coming months. Our results provide a baseline for interpreting this information.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures on mental health of children and adolescents in Greece
Authors: Magklara Konstantina , Lazaratou Helen , Barbouni Anastasia , Poulas Konstantinos , Farsalinos Konstantinos ,   Coronavirus Greece Research Group
Published: October 2020

AbstractBackgroundMental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown measures are expected to be profound.AimThe aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of the pandemic and the lockdown on children’s and adolescents’ mental health in Greece.MethodsA cross-sectional survey of 1,232 Greek parents of children and adolescents aged < 18 years was conducted in March and May 2020. Parents provided information about sociodemographic characteristics, family everyday life during the lockdown and the pandemic psychological impact on their children.ResultsApproximately one-third (35.1%) of parents reported that the psychological health of their children was considerably affected. The most significant concern was social isolation. Unemployment, increased family conflicts, no opportunity for tele-work and a deteriorating psychological health of the parent, as well as children’s previous history of physical health conditions were all significantly associated with adverse mental health impact.ConclusionA considerable proportion of children and adolescents may experience adverse mental health effects due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown measures, and socioeconomic inequalities may be associated with these effects.
2.5 Million Person-Years of Life Have Been Lost Due to COVID-19 in the United States
Authors: Elledge Stephen J. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic, caused by tens of millions of SARS-CoV-2 infections world-wide, has resulted in considerable levels of mortality and morbidity. The United States has been hit particularly hard having 20 percent of the world’s infections but only 4 percent of the world population. Unfortunately, significant levels of misunderstanding exist about the severity of the disease and its lethality. As COVID-19 disproportionally impacts elderly populations, the false impression that the impact on society of these deaths is minimal may be conveyed by some because elderly individuals are closer to a natural death. To assess the impact of COVID-19 in the US, I have performed calculations of person-years of life lost as a result of 194,000 premature deaths due to SARS-CoV-2 infection as of early October, 2020. By combining actuarial data on life expectancy and the distribution of COVID-19 associated deaths we estimate that over 2,500,000 person-years of life have been lost so far in the pandemic in the US alone, averaging over 13.25 years per person with differences noted between males and females. Importantly, nearly half of the potential years of life lost occur in non-elderly populations. Issues impacting refinement of these models and the additional morbidity caused by COVID-19 beyond lethality are discussed.
Temporal regulation of motor behavior on a modified forelimb dexterity test in mice
Authors: Mohammed Hisham , Li Yue , Grazia Paola Di , Bernstein Amanda , Agger Sydney , Hollis Edmund 
Published: October 2020

ABSTRACTHand and arm manual dexterity is a hallmark of humans and non-human primates. While rodents are less dexterous than primates, they provide powerful models for testing neural circuit function in behavioral output, including dexterous behaviors. In rodents, the single pellet reach task has been used extensively to study both dexterous forelimb motor learning as well as recovery from injury; however, mice exhibit high variability in task acquisition in comparison to rats and a significant percentage fail to learn the task. We have created a recessed version of the task that requires greater dexterity. This subtle modification increases both task difficulty as well as the proportion of mice that show an improvement with training. Furthermore, motor cortex inactivation shows a greater effect on the execution of the recessed forelimb reach task, with distinct effects on reach targeting vs grasping components depending on the timing of inhibitory activation. Kinematic analysis revealed differences in reach targeting upon transient cortical inhibition prior to reach onset. In summary, the recessed single pellet reach task provides a robust assessment of forelimb dexterity in mice and a tool for studying skilled motor acquisition and execution.
Quinomycin A reduces cyst progression in Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Radadiya Priyanka S , Thornton Mackenzie M , Magenheimer Brenda , Subramaniam Dharmalingam , Tran Pamela V , Calvet James P , Wallace Darren P , Sharma Madhulika 
Published: October 2020

AbstractPolycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder that affects cilia homeostasis and causes progressive growth of tubular-derived cysts within the kidney. Efforts to find safer drugs for PKD have increased in the past few years after the successful launch of tolvaptan, the first approved drug to combat autosomal dominant PKD progression. Here we investigate the effects of Quinomycin A on progression of PKD. Quinomycin A is a bis-intercalator peptide that has previously shown to be effective against cancer progression. Quinomycin A treatment decreased cyst progression of human ADPKD primary renal epithelial cells grown in a 3D collagen gel to form cysts. In an orthologous mouse model of PKD, Quinomycin A administration reduced kidney to body weight ratios, and reduced cystogenesis. This was accompanied by decreased cell proliferation and fibrosis. Quinomycin treatments efficiently reduced the expression of Notch pathway proteins, RBPjk and HeyL in kidneys of PKD mice. Interestingly, Quinomycin treatments also normalized cilia lengths of collecting duct cyst-lining renal epithelia of PKD mice. This is the first preclinical study to our knowledge that demonstrates Quinomycin A has protective effects against PKD progression, in part by reducing Notch signaling and renal epithelial cilia lengths. Our findings suggest Quinomycin A has potential therapeutic value for PKD patients.
The Safety of Contemporary Planned Cancer Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Shackley D , Gray S , Penney S , Galligan-Dawson L , Howle F , Arya S , Hunter J , Andrews F , Wasson C , Luckas M , Ryan B , Eddleston J , Brookes C , Harrison C 
Published: October 2020

AbstractIntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has put an unprecedented burden on global healthcare, including detrimental implications for the volume and provision of surgical services. The aim of this audit was to assess if the planned surgical cancer care (both diagnostic for possible cancer, and treatment of known cancer) during this period of widespread community and hospital based COVID-19 infection resulted in patients acquiring symptomatic COVID-19 as a consequence of their surgical admission, and if so, what the impact on patients was.MethodsA prospective audit of all patients undergoing elective cancer surgery in Greater Manchester operated on between 01/05/2020 and 31/06/2020 was undertaken after the introduction of specific peri operative COVID safety measures across Greater Manchester cancer surgical cells. The COVID related outcomes for all cancer patients operated on in Greater Manchester were recorded.ResultsOf the 1501 patients undergoing surgery, one (<0.1%) was diagnosed with COVID-19 in hospital within 14 days of surgery. This patient did not require admission to critical care due to post-operative COVID-19 diagnosis, and there was no associated mortality related to post-operative COVID-19 infection.ConclusionThe use of peri operative COVID-19 infection prevention strategies has allowed for the safe continuation of elective cancer surgery during this pandemic in all surgical units, without significant additional COVID-19 related morbidity or mortality.
Using near-infrared spectroscopy to discriminate closely related species: A case study of neotropical ferns
Authors: Paiva Darlem Nikerlly Amaral , de Oliveira Perdiz Ricardo , Almeida Thaís Elias 
Published: October 2020

ABSTRACTIdentifying plant species requires considerable knowledge and can be difficult without complete specimens. Fourier-transform near-infrared spectroscopy (FT-NIR) is an effective technique for discriminating plant species, especially angiosperms. However, its efficacy has never been tested on ferns. Here we tested the accuracy of FT-NIR at discriminating species of the genusMicrogramma. We obtained 16 spectral readings per individual from the adaxial and abaxial surfaces of 100 specimens belonging to 13 species. The analyses included all 1557 spectral variables. We tested different datasets (adaxial+abaxial, adaxial, and abaxial) to compare the correct identification of species through the construction of discriminant models (LDA, PLS) and cross-validation techniques (leave-one-out, K-fold). All analyses recovered an overall high percentage (>90 %) of correct predictions of specimen identifications for all datasets, regardless of the model or cross-validation used. On average, there was > 95 % accuracy when using PLS-DA and both cross-validations. Our results show the high predictive power of FT-NIR at correctly discriminating fern species when using leaves of dried herbarium specimens. The technique is sensitive enough to reflect species delimitation problems and possible hybridization, and it has the potential of helping better delimit and identify fern species.
Correction of eIF2-dependent defects in brain protein synthesis, synaptic plasticity and memory in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Oliveira Mauricio M. , Lourenco Mychael V. , Longo Francesco , Kasica Nicole P. , Yang Wenzhong , Ureta Gonzalo , Ferreira Danielle D. P. , Mendonça Paulo H. J. , Bernales Sebastian , Ma Tao , De Felice Fernanda G. , Klann Eric , Ferreira Sergio T. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractNeuronal protein synthesis is essential for long-term memory consolidation. Conversely, dysregulation of protein synthesis has been implicated in a number of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Several types of cellular stress trigger the activation of protein kinases that converge on the phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α-P). This leads to attenuation of cap-dependent mRNA translation, a component of the integrated stress response (ISR). We show that AD brains exhibit increased eIF2α-P and reduced eIF2B, key components of the eIF2 translation initiation complex. We further demonstrate that attenuating the ISR with the small molecule compound ISRIB (ISR Inhibitor) rescues hippocampal protein synthesis and corrects impaired synaptic plasticity and memory in mouse models of AD. Our findings suggest that attenuating eIF2α-P-mediated translational inhibition may comprise an effective approach to alleviate cognitive decline in AD.