bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants follow a historical pattern recorded in outgroups infecting non-human hosts
Authors: Katoh Kazutaka , Standley Daron M. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The ability to predict emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 would be of enormous value, as it would enable proactive design of vaccines in advance of such emergence. Based on molecular evolutionary analysis of the S protein, we found a significant correspondence in the location of amino acid substitutions between SARS-CoV-2 variants recently emerging and their relatives that infected bat and pangolin before the pandemic. This observation suggests that a limited number of sites in this protein are repeatedly substituted in different lineages of this group of viruses. It follows, therefore, that the sites of future emerging mutations in SARS-CoV-2 can be predicted by analyzing their relatives (outgroups) that have infected non-human hosts. We discuss a possible evolutionary mechanism behind these substitutions and provide a list of frequently substituted sites that potentially include future emerging variants in SARS-CoV-2.
Effective anti-mycobacterial treatment for BCG disease in patients with Mendelian Susceptibility to Mycobacterial Disease (MSMD)
Authors: Mahdaviani Seyed Alireza , Fallahi Mazdak , Jamee Mahnaz , Marjani Majid , Tabarsi Payam , Moniri Afshin , Farnia Parisa , Daneshmandi Zahra , Parvaneh Nima , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Bustamante Jacinta , Mansouri Davood , Velayati Ali Akbar 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Post-vaccination BCG disease typically attests to underlying inborn errors of immunity (IEIs), with the highest rates of complications in patients with Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial disease (MSMD). However, therapeutic protocols for the management of BCG-osis (disseminated) and persistent BCG-itis (localized) are still controversial. Methods: Twenty-four Iranian patients with MSMD (BCG-osis or BCG-itis), followed from 2009 to 2020 in Tehran, were included in the study. Their medical records were retrospectively reviewed for demographics, clinical features, laboratory findings, and molecular diagnosis. The therapeutic protocol sheets were prepared to contain the types and duration of anti-mycobacterial agents. Results: BCG disease either as BCG-itis (33.3%) or BCG-osis (66.7%) was confirmed in all patients by positive gastric washing test (54.2%), microbial smear and culture (58.3%), or purified protein derivative (PPD) test (4.2%). The duration between BCG-osis onset and MSMD diagnosis was 21.6 months. All except three patients were initiated on second-line anti-mycobacterial agents with either a fluoroquinolone (levofloxacin: 15 mg/kg/day, ciprofloxacin: 20 mg/kg/day, ofloxacin: 15 mg/kg/day), aminoglycoside (amikacin: 10-15 mg/kg/day, streptomycin: 15 mg/kg/day), and/or macrolide (clarithromycin: 15 mg/kg/day) along with oral rifampin (10 mg/kg/day), isoniazid (15 mg/kg/day), and ethambutol (20 mg/kg/day). Three patients showed a clinical response to rifampin, despite in vitro resistance. Fourteen (58.3%) patients received also adjuvant subcutaneous IFN-γ therapy, 50 µ/m2 every other day. At the end of survey, most patients (n=22, 91.7%) were alive and two patients died following BCG-osis and respiratory failure. Conclusions: We recommend the early instigation of second-line anti-mycobacterial agents in MSMD patients with BCG disease.
Acceptability of Narrative Visualization with Physical Activity Monitoring Among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Bentley Jason , Yu Xiaoying , Karmarkar Amol , Downer Brian , Prochaska John , Lyons Elizabeth 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Physical activity (PA) levels are low among breast cancer survivors. Narrative visualization (NV) is a technique that uses drawings, photographs, and text to contextualize data, which may increase integrated regulation, or motivation for PA by relating it to personal values and identity. The purpose of this study was to determine the acceptability of a NV intervention for older breast cancer survivors.Methods: Participants completed an NV workbook for 7 days using the provided instant camera, art supplies including a variety of stickers, and a wearable electronic activity monitor. The workbook pages prompted participants to re-draw their daily activity graphs from the monitor’s mobile app, then annotate them with text, photographs, stickers, etc. to reflect what the data meant to them. Thematic analysis and content analysis were used to identify emergent themes. Results: Of the 20 consented women (mean age 67±5 years, 45% non-Hispanic White), 17 participants completed all study procedures. Participants showed high levels of engagement (e.g., mean of 9 photos taken; mean of 56 stickers used over 7 days; all workbook questions completed) supporting intervention acceptability. Themes within the photos included family, specific locations, everyday objects, religion, and friends. Themes within the written portions of the workbook included family, chores and obligations, health, personal reflection, hobbies, and shopping. Weight loss was not a major theme. Conclusions: Breast cancer survivors successfully used NV techniques to reflect on their PA data and behavior. These techniques show promise for promoting integrated regulation in activity monitoring interventions.Trial Registration: NCT03612596
Does Fertigation With Fish Farming Effluent Alter the Morphophysiology and Biochemistry of Lippia Gracilis (Verbenaceae)?
Authors: Neto José Maria Damasceno Silva , de Morais Marciana Bizerra , Dias Nildo da Silva , de Souza Lindomar Maria , Vasconcelos Mayron Alves , Ulisses Cláudia , Teixeira Edson Holanda , Rodrigues Tigressa Helena Soares , Santos Hélcio Silva , de Souza Josiani Felix , Freitas Maria Daniela , de Albuquerque Cynthia Cavalcanti 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
In order to evaluate the response mechanisms of L. gracilis fertigated with saline effluent from fish farming, L. gracilis plants were nourished with fish farming effluent with electrical conductivity of 0.45, 2.68, 4.60, 5.55 and 7.02 dS m− 1 for 60 days. The experiment was carried out in the open field using a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replicates. The salinity levels of the nutrient solution containing fish farming effluent did not affect the leaf and stem biomass production, relative water content and leaf area of the studied species. The activity of antioxidant enzymes varied when the nutrient solution salinity level was increased, which also stimulated the breakdown of starch reserves, but did not interfere with the biochemical parameters proline, photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids), levels of membrane damage and malondialdehyde, indicating that the plant showed no stress symptoms when fertigated with high-salinity effluent. The anatomy of L. gracilis leaf cross-sections shows a unistratified epidermis with glandular and non-glandular trichomes in the adaxial and abaxial sides. Plants that received only fish farming effluent (7.02 dS m− 1) showed a 25% reduction in the number of xylem bundles in the midrib region, compared to the control. The yield, chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil extracted from L. gracilis leaves did not differ between treatments. Thus, the saline effluent from fish farming can be used in the fertigation of L. gracilis without compromising plant yield, avoiding environmental contamination with disposal in soil and/or water bodies.
Geospatial Distribution of Toxoplasmosis Prevalence among Livestock, Pets and Humans in China, 1984-2020
Authors: Su Yajing , Qiao Xia , Jia Wei , Wang Pengtao , Kang Yuting , Yang Ningai , Zhao Zhijun 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an important foodborne zoonotic parasite with respect to abortion, intracranial calcifications, congenital hydrocephalus, retinochoroiditis, and toxoplasmic encephalitis in severely immunosuppressed individuals. Undercooked/raw meat containing cyst-stage bradyzoites and contaminated pets are presumed to constitute a major source of human infection. Although many seroprevalence studies have been performed in humans and different animal species in China, data on the geospatial distribution of toxoplasmosis prevalence are extremely scarce. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and geospatial distribution of toxoplasmosis among livestock, pets and humans in China using geographic information system (GIS) for the prevention and control of toxoplasmosis.Methods: This article is based on the data from PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Baidu Scholar databases from 1984 up to 2020 regarding prevalence data of toxoplasmosis among livestock (sheep and goats, swines, cattle and yaks), pets (cats, dogs) and humans in China. Geospatial distribution of the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in these hosts was performed using the GIS visualization techniques.Results: Analysis revealed wide geospatial variation of toxoplasmosis in China. The estimated pooled seroprevalence of T. gondii was ranged from 3.98% to 43.02% among sheep and goats in China, 0.75% to 30.34% in cattle and yaks, 10.45% to 66.47% in swines, 2.50% to 60.00% in cats, 0.56% to 27.65% in dogs, and 0.72% to 23.41% in humans. The higher seroprevalences of T. gondii were observed in districts Chongqing, Zhejiang and Beijing in sheep and goats. The infection rates of T. gondii in cattle and yaks were higher in districts Guizhou, Zhejiang and Chongqing. Moreover, the swines from districts Chongqing and Guizhou were also most severely infected with T. gondii. In cats, districts Shanxi, Hebei and Yunnan had higher seroprevalences of T. gondii and, the infections among dogs were higher in districts Yunnan and Hebei as well. Furthermore, higher infection pressure of T. gondii exists in districts Taiwan and Tibet in humans.Conclusion: The present study indicated that the infection with T. gondii was widely spread in China, with a wide range of variation. The investigation of T. gondii infection in livestock, pets and humans can be useful for assessing T. gondii environmental contamination and the risk for public health. Certain measures can be taken to prevent the prevalence of T. gondii infection in China, such as strengthening the management of livestock farms, keeping the barn clean, preventing feline excreta from polluting environment, using filtered water or water boiling, wearing gloves when handling raw meat and improving the practice of good hand hygiene.
Systemic and Intrathecal Baclofen Produce Bladder Antinociception in Rats
Authors: Ness Timothy J. , Randich Alan , Su Xin , DeWitte Cary , Hildebrand Keith 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background

Baclofen, a clinically available GABAB receptor agonist, produces non-opioid analgesia in multiple models of pain but has not been tested for effects on bladder nociception.
Methods

A series of experiments examined the effects of systemic and spinally administered baclofen on bladder nociception in female anesthetized rats. Models of bladder nociception included those which employed neonatal and adult bladder inflammation to produce bladder hypersensitivity.
Results

Cumulative intraperitoneal dosing (1–8 mg/kg IP) and cumulative intrathecal dosing (10–160 ng IT) of baclofen led to dose-dependent inhibition of visceromotor responses (VMRs) to urinary bladder distension (UBD) in all tested models. There were no differences in the magnitude of the analgesic effects of baclofen as a function of inflammation versus no inflammation treatments. Hemodynamic (pressor) responses to UBD were similarly inhibited by IT baclofen as well as UBD-evoked excitatory responses of spinal dorsal horn neurons. The GABAB receptor antagonist, CGP 35348, antagonized the antinociceptive effects of IT baclofen on VMRs in all tested models but did not affect the magnitude of the VMRs by itself suggesting no tonic GABAB activity was present in this preparation. Tolerance to a seven day continuous IT infusion of baclofen was not observed.
Conclusions

These data provide support for a clinical trial of baclofen as a non-opioid treatment of human bladder pain.
Effect of Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor and Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter-2 Inhibitor Combination Therapy in Diabetic Patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kim Hyue Mee , Hwang In-Chang , Choi Wonsuk , Yoon Yeonyee E. , Cho Goo-Yeong 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background

Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) have shown robust benefits in improving cardiac function and disease prognosis in diabetic patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, their combined effect has not been revealed.
Methods

We retrospectively identified diabetic patients with HFrEF who were prescribed an ARNI and/or SGLT2i. Diabetic patients with HFrEF treated with standard HF therapy but not ARNI or SGLT2i were included as controls. The patients were divided into groups treated with both ARNI and SGLT2i (group 1), ARNI but not SGLT2i (group 2), SGLT2i but not ARNI (group 3), and neither ARNI nor SGLT2i (group 4). After propensity score-matching, the occurrence of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), cardiovascular mortality, and changes in echocardiographic parameters were analyzed.
Results

Of the 206 matched patients included in the study, 90 (43.7%) had to undergo HHF and 43 (20.9%) died of cardiovascular causes during a median 25 months of follow-up. Patients in group 1 exhibited a lower risk of HHF and cardiovascular mortality compared to those in the other groups. Improvements in the left ventricular ejection fraction and mitral E/e’ were more pronounced in group 1 than in groups 2, 3 and 4. These echocardiographic improvements were more prominent after the initiation of ARNI, compare to the initiation of SGLT2i.
Conclusion

In diabetic patients with HFrEF, combination of ARNI and SGT2i showed significant improvement in cardiac function and prognosis. ARNI-SGLT2i combination therapy may improve the clinical course of HFrEF in diabetic patients.
Comparison of Buyang Huanwu Granules and Naoxintong Capsules in Treatment of Stable Angina Pectoris: Rationale and Design of a Randomized, Double-blind, Multicenter Clinical Trial
Authors: Wang Yu , Xu Yuhan , Zhang Ling , Huang Shuwei , Dou Liping , Yang Jiehong , Fu Wei , Zhou Peng , Wan Haitong 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Stable angina pectoris (SAP) is seriously threatened the health of human life currently, and the mortality is in a continuous rising stage. The current treatment strategies mainly include pharmaceutical therapy and revascularization. In China, Buyang Huanwu granules (BYHW) and Naoxintong capsule (NXT) have been used in the treatment of SAP, but it is not clear which one is better in terms of relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Therefore, we design a clinical trial to compare the efficacy and safety between NXT and BYHW in the treatment of SAP. Methods: This is a randomized, double-blinded, parallel controlled, multicenter clinical trial protocol. On the basis of western medicine standardized treatment, a total of 128 SAP patients will be randomly divided into intervention group 1 (NXT group), intervention group 2 (BYHW group) and control group (placebo group) at a 2:1:1 ratio. A 2-week run-in period is required prior to randomization, and 1-week baseline period and 4-week treatment period are included in this study. The primary outcome is the efficacy rate of stable angina symptom score improvement; the secondary outcomes include the effect of electrocardiogram, Seattle Angina Questionnaire scores, and the nitroglycerin consumption. Discussion: This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety between NXT and BYHW in the treatment of SAP. The results will provide critical evidence of the Chinese herbal medicine for SAP. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trials Registry ChiCTR1800015191. Registered on 13 March 2018. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=25818
The Effects of Bathing in Neutral Bicarbonate Ion Water
Authors: Saito Ichiro , Yamazaki Tomoe , Nakayama-Ushikoshi Ryoko , Supriya Syakya , Omagari Daisuke , Matsumoto Naoyuki , Nukuzuma Chiyoko , Komatsu Tomoko , Lee Masaichi Chang-il , Inoue Hiroko 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Percutaneously absorbed carbon dioxide enhances blood flow. The mechanism by which it does so is unclear, we hypothesized that it involves bicarbonate ions. Balb/c mice were bathed in neutral bicarbonate ionized water (NBIW) and showed increased blood bicarbonate levels and blood flow via phosphorylation of peripheral vascular endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and production of nitric oxide (NO). Phosphorylation of eNOS and NO production were also increased in human umbilical vein endothelial cells cultured in medium containing NBIW, and NBIW showed reactive oxygen species scavenging activity. In a double-blind, randomized study in men and women aged 30 to 59 years with subjective cold intolerance, bathing in NBIW elevated body temperature faster than bathing in a control solution and improved chills and sleep quality. Taken together, our results show that percutaneously absorbed bicarbonate ions act directly on endothelial cells, phosphorylation of eNOS increases NO production and thus improves blood flow.
A Cross-sectional Study on Infectious Health Risks Regarding Freshwater Sport Practice in Brittany, France
Authors: Velardo Fanny , Bouziri Hanifa , Adélaïde Lucie , Oliosi Emma , Layan Maylis , Descamps Alexandre , Berthod Delphine , Patlán-Hernández Alan R. , Ledrans Martine , Pivette Mathilde , Lefort Mathilde , Roux Jonathan , Crépey Pascal 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Freshwater sports can be associated with infections from pathogenic microorganisms. In French Brittany, such infections are a major concern since a leptospirosis outbreak in 2016. Objectives: We aimed to estimate the prevalence of infectious diseases related to the practice of freshwater sports and identify the factors associated with these pathologies in Brittany, France. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from March 18 to May 8, 2019, among freshwater sport licensees (online study) and clubs (phone study). Licensees were 18 years old or more, and practiced at least one freshwater sport, in one of the 79 Brittany clubs. Club presidents and instructors were also surveyed. We used logistic regression models to study the association between our variables of interest and potential risk factors. Results: In total, 551 licensees (20.3% of the total number of licensees) and 38 clubs (48.1%) were surveyed. A diagnosis of leptospirosis was reported by 29 (5.3%) licensees, of which 41.3% occurred in the last five years. The most reported symptoms were skin symptoms (24.3%) and 7.1% of individuals reported at least one hospitalization in their lifetime for a disease related to freshwater sports. The occurrence of leptospirosis was negatively associated with boarding from a pontoon (OR=0.20 [0.06-0.56]), practicing for less than 4 years (OR=0.17 [0.04-0.56]) compared to more than 10 years, and the occurrence of leptospirosis was positively associated with taking a soapy shower after practice (OR=4.38 [1.90-10.51]). Eskimo roll was positively associated with the occurrence of otitis and conjunctivitis (OR=3.22 [1.82-6.03]) and skin irritations (OR=1.66 [0.99-2.84]). Conclusion: This study provides a better understanding of the proportion and factors associated with infectious diseases linked to the practice of freshwater sports in French Brittany. Complementary studies are necessary to better understand the link between these diseases and the practice of freshwater sports.
Seroconversion rates following 2 doses of Measles- Mumps- Rubella Vaccination Given at the Ages 12 and 18 Months: Data for possible additional dose at older age
Authors: Saffar Hana , Mousavi Sayed Jaber , Saffar Hiva , Parsaei Mohammad-Reza , Ghorbani Gholam-Reza , Saffar Mohammad-Jafar 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background. Despite high rate of vaccination coverage with 2-doses of measles vaccine among Iranian children, outbreaks of measles occurred among different age groups and fully vaccinated subjects. Although the main reason for these outbreaks is unknown, however, vaccine failure was supposed to be an important cause. This study was designed to determine the immunogenicity of measles- mumps- rubella (MMR) vaccine currently in use among Iranian children.Methods. This prospective study was conducted among ³ 12 month- old healthy children who were candidates of scheduled MMR vaccination. Blood samples were obtained from each mother- infant pair just before vaccination, and from infants 4- 6 weeks after MMR1 and MMR2 immunization. Collected sera were tested for specific lgG antibodies against MMR agents using ELISA method. The proportion of seroprotected subjects among mother- infant pairs before vaccination as well as the prevalence rates of seroconversion after MMR1 and MMR2 vaccination were calculated. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods.Results. During 22-months study period, 92 mother- infant pairs were participated. Seroimmunity rates against MMR viruses were 85.8%, 84.7% and 86.9% for mothers, and 3.2%, 2.1% and 1.0% for children, respectively. After MMR1 vaccination of 52 seronegative children, 80.7%, 78.8% and 75% were seroconverted. These rates increased to 94.8%, 89.7% and 92.3% after the MMR2 vaccination. Also, the specific immunity was enhanced among seropositive children.Conclusion. Majority of the mothers and few infants were immune to MMR viruses, prior to MMR1 vaccination. Seroconversion rates detected after MMR1 injection, and overall seroprotection rates achieved after 2-doses of MMR vaccination were less than expected and inadequate to preserve long-term protection against MMR agents.
Investigation on risk factors of adult allergic rhinitis in China
Authors: Hong Guo , Yibo Zhou , Fengxia Li , Ping Liu Ming , Yong Cao 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the risk factors associated with allergic rhinitis in adults. METHODS: Using the 1:1 matching principle, 1096 cases of allergic rhinitis patients aged 18-65 years were selected as the observation group, and another group of healthy medical checkups were selected as the control group, and the data related to allergic rhinitis were collected by allergen testing and questionnaire survey, and univariate and multifactorial analyses were performed respectively. RESULTS: The univariate analysis showed that allergic rhinitis may be related to temperature changes, dryness and humidity, air pressure, wind speed, seasonal changes and exposure to allergens such as dust mites and house dust mites. After allergen testing of all patients in the observation group, it was found that dust mite and house dust mite were the highest percentage of allergens, accounting for 40.51%, indicating that environmental factors play a decisive role in allergic rhinitis. Multi-factor analysis showed that exposure to dust mites, house dust mites, Penicillium punctatum, Streptomyces crossatus and Aspergillus fumigatus were independent risk factors for allergic rhinitis when it was humid, when it was cold, when it was windy and when the air pressure was low. CONCLUSION: The epidemiological status of allergic rhinitis in adults in China was initially understood, and the main allergens were house dust mite and dust mite, which provided scientific epidemiological information for the standardized prevention and treatment of allergic rhinitis in this region.