bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging resistome diversity in clinical Vibrio cholerae strains revealing their role as potential reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance
Authors: DE RITUPARNA , MUKHOPADHYAY ASISH K. , GHOSH MANISHA , BASAK SURAJIT , DUTTA SHANTA
Published: April 2023

Genotyping of Vibrio cholerae strains, VC1 and VC2 was undertaken to characterize antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) against chloramphenicol, SXT, nalidixic acid and streptomycin against which they were found to be resistant by antibiogram analysis. strAB, sxt, sul2, qace∆1-sul1 were detected by PCR. Genome annotation and identification of ARGs with WGS helped to detect the presence of almG, varG, strA (APH(3'')-Ib), strB (APH(6)-Id), sul2, catB9, floR, CRP, dfrA1 genes. Signatures of resistance determinants and protein domains involved in antimicrobial resistance, primarily, efflux of antibiotics were identified on the basis of 30%-100% homology to reference proteins. These domains were predicted to be involved in other metabolic functions on the basis of 100% identity with 100% coverage with reference protein and nucleotide sequences and were predicted to be of a diverse taxonomic origin accentuating the influence of the microbiota on AMR acquisition. Sequence analysis of QRDR (quinolone resistance-determining region) revealed SNPs. Cytoscape v3.8.2 was employed to analyse protein-protein interaction of MDR proteins, MdtA and EmrD-2, with nodes of vital AMR pathways. Vital nodes involved in efflux of different classes of antibiotics were found to be absent in VC1 and VC2 justifying the sensitivity of these strains to most antibiotics. The study helped to examine the resistome of VC isolated from recent outbreaks to understand the underlying reason of sensitivity to most antibiotics and also to characterize the ARGs in their genome. It revealed that VC is a reservoir of signatures of resistance determinants and serving as precursors for severe AMR crisis in cholera.
Primary diamond deposits of the Siberian craton: geology, petrology and mineralogy insights
Authors: Kostrovitsky Sergey , Iakovlev Dmitrii , Spetsius Zdislav , Garanin Konstantin
Published: April 2023

We provide general data on all the primary diamond deposits of Siberian craton, including the names of pioneers, the size of pipes, volume models for pipe bodies, interior features, and the diamond grade of kimberlites. The U-Pb ages of the deposits are within 350–370 Ma. The pipe's features are different by morphology, they may be both single-feeder and multi-feeder, with crater funnel-shaped expansion at the pipe tops, and subcylindrical having (starting from the surface) sub-vertical walls. The diamond grade gradually decrease from southern to northern deposits within Yakutian Province (the highest diamond grade for the Nakyn and Mirninsky fields, moderate for the Daldyn and Alakit-Markha fields, and relatively low being at the Upper Muna field occupying the most northern position as compared to with the other fields). The diamond grade of deposits correlates with the chemical composition of kimberlites. The highest diamond grade is noted at the Nyurbinskaya, Botuobinskaya Mayskaya, Internatsional'naya, and Aikhal pipes which are composed of high-Mg kimberlites. Most Yakutian deposits are composed mainly of volcanoclastic kimberlites that usually are higher diamond-grade, as compared with the coherent kimberlites. We discuss genetic issues of different morphology and multiphase composition of kimberlite pipes as well as rates for different intrusion phases and duration of pipe formation. The origin of some species of pyroclastic kimberlite is supposed to be related to the mantle depths.
In vivo successful repair of transplant renal artery aneurysm (TRAA) made possible in an Asian transplant unit.
Authors: Ho Collin Elijah Rui Hung , So Wei Zheng , Wong Julian , Tiong Ho Yee
Published: April 2023

Background Transplant renal artery aneurysm (TRAA) is rare. TRAA that develops post transplantation consists of 0.10% of the vascular complications post renal transplant. [1, 2]Case Presentation: We report a case of TRAA in an asymptomatic young female. CT angiogram with detailed 3D reconstruction showed a 2.6 x 2.2 cm wide neck saccular TRAA arising from the anterior segmental branch of the graft renal artery (Figs. 2 & 3). A multidisciplinary team of interventional radiologists, vascular and urologist was involved for preoperative surgical planning and unique repair methods. Endovascular and percutaneous approaches were deemed not feasible, and an open in vivo approach with a saphenous vein graft was taken.Conclusion TRAA, albeit rare, is a complication that can occur post renal transplant. In-vivo surgical repair of TRAA is feasible with a multidisciplinary approach and careful preoperative planning. Saphenous vein graft is still a versatile graft and can be used as a conduit successfully.
Impacts of climate disturbances on crop productivity in the flood zone of Santchou, western Cameroon
Authors: WAMBA Franck Robéan , ELONO Alvine Larissa MEYABEME , TSAFACK Honorine NTANGMO , YEMELI Élida Joëlle , TEMGOUA Émile
Published: April 2023

This work addresses the impacts of climate disturbances on agriculture in the Municipality of Santchou in western Cameroon. A total of 309 randomly sampled households were surveyed using a questionnaire, 17 community’s leaders were interviewed. Crop grow and agricultural systems were observed and describe directly in the field. Crop yields were obtained from the District Delegation of Agriculture and Rural Development (DAADR) of Santchou The results indicate that the increase in rainfall combined with drastic decreases in the number of rainy days caused flooding, leading to rotting of tubers and early harvests. There is also a proliferation of pests and parasites such as fall armyworms and Striga hermonthica, especially on maize, leading to a drop in yields of around 25 to 30% and a significant increase in prices products on the local market. The price per kilogram of maize, cassava, new cocoyam and sweet potato increases respectively from 95.67 francs, 64.17 francs, 82.83 francs and 83.50 francs in 2000 to 437.5 francs, 95.83 francs, 187.17 francs and 117.67 francs in 2010. In this context, it appears imperative to develop more appropriate adaptive strategies in order to reduce the vulnerability of farmers to climate disturbances.
Internet addiction and associated factors among undergraduate students of Jimma university; Jimma South West Ethiopia. Institutional Based cross-sectional Study
Authors: Amano Abdulkerim , Ahmed Gutema , Nigussie Kabtamu , Asfaw Henock , Fekadu Gelana , Hiko Ahmed , Abdeta Tilahun , Soboka Matiwos
Published: April 2023

Background Internet addiction is a condition that affects cognitive function, which has a detrimental impact on students' academic performance and increases their risk of experiencing psychological crises including anxiety and sadness.Objectives Examining the prevalence of internet addiction and its contributing factors among regular undergraduate students at Jimma University in South West Ethiopia was the primary goal of this study.Methods An institutional-based cross-sectional study design using a multistage random sampling technique among 772 students was conducted. We collected the data using pretested and structured questionnaires with self-administered techniques. We measured internet addiction with the Young Internet Addiction Test (YIAT). Epi Data Manager version 4.6 was used to enter data, which was then exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Descriptive statistics, bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to analyze possible confounders, and variables at p-value less than 0.05 were declared as independent predictors of internet addiction.Result The prevalence of internet addiction among Jimma University, regular undergraduate students was 53.6%, (95% Confidence Interval (CI); (49.99%, 57.15%). Being dissatisfied with major study (AOR: 4.827, 95% CI = 2.029–11.484) and having a cumulative grade point average of promoted grade report (AOR|): 2.119, 95% CI = 1.321–3.397 Using the internet for entertainment (AOR: 1.558, 95% CI = 1.113–2.180), using the internet for Face Book (AOR: 2.780, 95% CI = 1.471–5.253), using the internet for telegram (AOR: 2.197, 95% CI = 1.434–3.365), depression (AOR: 2.061, 95% CI = 1.463–2.903), social anxiety (AOR: 4.565, 95% CI = 1.254–16.610) and poor social support (AOR: 2.132, 95% CI = 1.358–3.346) had significant associations with internet addiction.Conclusion This study revealed a comparatively high frequency of internet addiction among Jimma University students. Internet dependance was found to be associated with promoted grade reports, poor satisfaction with major studies, using the internet for entertainment, Facebook and Telegram, depression, social anxiety, and poor social support. As a result, integrating the efforts of stakeholders, including the ministry of education and universities, on the identified factors and raising awareness among university students would be a beneficial step toward reducing this high prevalence.
An economic assessment of the effect of agricultural extension activities on increasing production and farmers’ revenue: The case of irrigated wheat Production-Extension Model Sites in Iran
Authors: Amghani Mohammad Shokati , Mojtahedi Mehrdad , Savari Moslem
Published: April 2023

Agricultural extension is a key instrument to accomplish sustainable agricultural development by improving knowledge penetration in the agricultural sector. (EMSs) are a new extension approach in agriculture to create proper models for empowering farmers. This research analyzes the effect of EMSs on increasing irrigated wheat production versus the previous cultivation period. The statistical population was composed of the main farmers of irrigated wheat EMSs (N = 355) throughout Iran. The sample size was determined to be 180 by Cochran’s formula. The sample was taken by the stratified random sampling technique with proportional allocation. The results of the estimation of production cost function and extension activities cost showed that the variable of extension activities significantly affected irrigated wheat yield with a coefficient of 0.32 at the P < 0.01 level. The extension investment return in the EMSs was 0.66 t/ha. Based on the results, out of the final production value of the extension services provided to the main farmers, 13.3 percent had been spent as the cost of extension activities and 86.7 percent had been net profit gained by farmers. The results of the correlated t-test for farmers’ behavior before and after receiving the extension services showed significant differences in the amount of seed consumption, tillage cost per ha, labor cost per ha, irrigation frequency, the rate of biofertilizer and urea application, crop waste during harvest, the production cost of irrigated wheat per kg, crop yield, and income and net production profit per ha.
Forecasting ocean wave-induced seismic noise
Authors: Bertoldi Andrea , Gaffet Stéphane , Prevedelli Marco , Smith David A.
Published: April 2023

Ocean waves induce the power peak in the seismic ground motion seen everywhere in the world
between 0.03 Hz and 1 Hz, defining the seismic noise baseline. The precise generation mechanisms
are well understood, and the dependence of seismic noise on sea weather has been precisely quantified
using long-term time series. However, this knowledge has never been exploited to forecast the seismic
noise background. Here we report the prediction of the mid-frequency seismic noise spectrum at
the Low-Noise Underground Laboratory (LSBB) in Rustrel, for up to 16 days in advance, limited
by the time span of sea weather forecasts. We first characterize the dependence of the seismic noise
at the LSBB on the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean weather, using buoy data for 2020-21.
We exploit significant correlation in the 0.15 Hz < f < 2.5 Hz frequency band to make predictions,
converting sea weather forecasts into seismic noise forecasts. The expected seismic background noise
can be used to optimize the performance and running costs of scientific and industrial activities,
by scheduling them during quiet intervals or adopting adaptive data analysis techniques to identify
target signals in the predicted noise.
Post-infection functional gastrointestinal disorders following coronavirus disease-19: A Prospective follow-up cohort study
Authors: Zhang Daya , Chen Chen , Xie Yunqian , Zeng Fan , Chen Shiju , Chen Runxiang , Zhang Xiaodong , Huang Shimei , Li Da , Bai Feihu
Published: April 2023

Background:Acute gastrointestinal infections can lead to post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS). Moreover, coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is related to long-term gastrointestinal sequelae. In this study, the frequency, disease spectrum, and risk factors for post-infection functional gastrointestinal disease (PI-FGID) in COVID-19 patients and healthy controls were prospectively examined.
Methods: Validated Rome III and Rome IV questionnaires were used to assess the incidence of PI-FGID in 190 COVID-19 patients, and 160 healthy controls prospectively followed for 1, 3, and 6 months.
Results:Six（3.2%）, 1（0.5%）, 3（1.6%）, 5（2.6%）, 6（3.2%）COVID-19 patients had diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia and their overlap at 1 month, respectively, while 4（2.1%）, 1（0.5%）, 4（2.1%）, 4（2.1%）, and 6（3.2%）COVID-19 patients had diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia and their overlap at three months, respectively. Furthermore, 2（1.3%）, 4（2.5%）, and 3（1.9%）healthy controls developed constipation, dyspepsia, and their overlap at one month, respectively (P=0.193), while 2（1.3%）, 4（2.5%), and 2（1.3%）healthy controls developed constipation, dyspepsia and their overlap at three months, respectively (P=0.286). FGIDs incidence was higher among COVID-19 patients（8.9%) than in healthy controls（3.1%) at 6-month follow-up (P=0.025). Moreover, 7 (3.7%), 5 (2.6%), 3 (1.6%), and 2 (1.1%) COVID-19 patients developed IBS, functional dyspepsia（FD）, functional diarrhea（FDr）, functional constipation（FC）at six months, respectively, while only 2 (1.3%) and 3 (1.9%) healthy controls developed IBS and FD at six months, respectively. Notably, gastrointestinal（GI）symptoms at onset were the independent risk factors for post-COVID-19 FGIDs at six months.
Conclusions: COVID-19 increases new-onset PI-FGID at six months compared with healthy controls. GI symptom at the onset of COVID-19 is an independent risk factor for post-COVID-19 FGIDs.
Sclerostin antibody improves alveolar bone quality in the Hyp mouse model of X-Linked Hypophosphatemia (XLH)
Authors: Ross Ryan , Carpenter Kelsey , Alkhatib Delia , Dulion Bryan , Guirado Elizabeth , Patel Shreya , Chen Yinghua , George Anne
Published: April 2023

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare disease of elevated fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) production that leads to hypophosphatemia and poor mineralization of bone and teeth. The clinical manifestations of XLH include a high prevalence of dental abscesses, likely driven by poorly formed structures of the dentoalveolar complex, including the alveolar bone, cementum, dentin, and periodontal ligament. Our previous studies have demonstrated that sclerostin antibody (Scl-Ab) treatment improves phosphate homeostasis, and increases bone mass, strength and mineralization in the Hyp mouse model of XLH. In the current study, we investigated whether Scl-Ab impacts the dentoalveolar structures of Hyp mice. Male and female wild-type and Hyp littermates were injected with 25 mg/kg of vehicle or Scl-Ab twice weekly beginning at 12 weeks of age and euthanized at 20 weeks of age. Scl-Ab increased alveolar bone mass in both male and female mice and alveolar tissue mineral density in the male mice. The positive effects of Scl-Ab were consistent with an increase in the fraction of active (non-phosphorylated) β-catenin stained alveolar osteocytes. Scl-Ab had no effect on mineralized tissues of the tooth - dentin, enamel, acellular and cellular cementum. There was a non-significant trend toward increased periodontal ligament (PDL) attachment fraction within the Hyp mice. Additional PDL fibral structural parameters were not affected by Scl-Ab. The current study demonstrates that Scl-Ab can improve alveolar bone in the Hyp mouse model of XLH.
Isolation and propagation of an Egyptian Theileria annulata infected cell line and evaluation of its use as a vaccine to protect cattle against field challenge
Authors: AL-Hosary Amira , Radwan Ahmed M. , Ahmed Laila S. , Abdelghaffar Sary Kh. , Fischer Susanne , Nijhof Ard M. , Clausen Peter-Henning , Ahmed Jabbar S.
Published: April 2023

Tropical theileriosis is an important protozoan tick-borne disease of cattle. Vaccination using attenuated schizont cell lines is one of the methods used for controlling the disease. This study describes the production of an attenuated T. annulata cell line from Egypt and an evaluation of its use as a vaccine to protect calves against clinical disease upon field challenge. Two groups of exotic and crossbred male calves were divided into vaccinated and control groups. Vaccinated groups were inoculated with 4 ml (1 x 106 cells/ml) of the attenuated cell line. Three weeks after vaccination, calves of both groups were transported to the New Valley governorate where they were kept under field conditions and exposed to natural T. annulata challenge. All animals of the control group showed severe clinical signs and died despite treatment with buparvaquone after a severe drop in the packed cell volume (PCV). Animals of the vaccinated group became seropositive without developing serious clinical signs except for the transient fever. Post-mortem examinations revealed enlarged and fragile lymph nodes, spleen, and liver with necrosis and hemorrhages. These findings indicate that the Egyptian attenuated cell line was successful in protecting both exotic and crossbred animals against tropical theileriosis under field conditions.
A nomogram for predicting lateral lymph node metastasis in cN0 unifocal papillary thyroid microcarcinoma
Authors: Huang Hui , Xu Siyuang , Ni Song , Wang Xiaolei , Liu Shaoyan
Published: April 2023

Background Identifying risk factors for occult lateral LNM in PTMC can assist in determining the necessity of LND and other measures to reduce the risk of recurrence. This study aimed to establish a nomogram for predicting the probability of lateral lymph node metastasis (LLNM) in patients with cN0 unifocal papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC).Methods We retrospectively analyzed a total of 4872 patients with cN0 unifocal PTMC who were treated at our center from January 2013 to June 2018. Logistic regression tests were used to determine the risk factors for LLNM. A nomogram was constructed based on these risk factors.Results The rate of LLNM was 3.2%. Tumors located in the upper lobe (OR = 2.56, 95% CI 1.80–3.62; p < 0.001) and size greater than 7 mm (OR = 2.59, 95% CI 1.85–3.62; p < 0.001) had a 2.5-fold higher risk of LLNM than tumors in the lower or middle lobe and size less than or equal to 7 mm. Tumors with extrathyroidal extension (ETE) had a significantly higher risk of LLNM (OR = 1.41, 95% CI 1.01–1.99; p = 0.044). Having three or more central lymph node metastases (CLNMs) (OR = 5.84, 95% CI 3.83–8.93; p < 0.001) or having one or two CLNMs (OR = 2.91, 95% CI 1.93–4.42; p < 0.001) both had a higher risk of LLNM than having no CLNMs. A nomogram was developed based on these risk factors. The ROC curve for predicting LLNM showed that the AUC was 0.777, indicating a high degree of consistency.Conclusion Tumors located in the upper lobe, greater than 7 mm in size, ETE, and CLNMs, especially three or more, were independent risk factors for LLNM in cN0 unifocal PTMC. The nomogram based on these factors had favorable predictive value and consistency, but further prospective research is needed to validate these findings.
High-quality chromosome-level genome assembly of the plant bug Pachypeltis micranthus provides insights into the availability of Mikania micrantha control
Authors: Wang Xiafei , Zhao Ning , Cai Liqiong , Liu Naiyong , Zhu Jiaying , Yang Bin
Published: April 2023

BackgroundThe plant bug,Pachypeltis micranthusMu et Liu (Hemiptera: Miridae), is an effective potential biological control agent forMikania micranthaH.B.K. (Asteraceae; one of the most notorious invasive weeds worldwide). However, limited knowledge about this species hindered its practical application and research. Accordingly, we sequenced the genome of this mirid bug, which is of great significance forM. micranthacontrol.ResultsHere, we generated a 712.72 Mb high-quality chromosome-level assembly ofP. micranthus, of which 707.51 Mb (99.27%) of assembled sequences were anchored onto 15 chromosomes with contig N50 of 16.84 Mb. TheP. micranthusgenome had the highest GC content (42.43%) and the second highest proportion of repetitive sequences (375.82 Mb, 52.73%) than the three other mirid bugs (i.e.,Apolygus lucorum,Cyrtorhinus lividipennis, andNesidiocoris tenuis). Phylogenetic analysis showed thatP. micranthusclustered with other mirid bugs and diverged from the common ancestor approximately 200.01 million years ago. We analyzed gene family expansion and or contraction and manually identified some significantly expanded gene families associated withP. micranthusfeeding and adaptation toM. micrantha. Compared with the whole body, transcriptome analysis of the salivary gland revealed that most of the upregulated genes were significantly associated with metabolism pathways and peptidase activity, particularly among cysteine peptidase, serine peptidase, and polygalacturonase; this could be one of the reasons for precisely and highly efficient feeding by the oligophagous bugP. micranthusonM. micrantha.ConclusionCollectively, this work provides a crucial chromosome-level genome resource to study the evolutionary adaptation between mirid bug and their host. It is also helpful in searching for novel environment-friendly biological strategies to controlM. micrantha.
Identifying barriers and facilitators to the inclusion of older adults living in UK care homes in research: a scoping review
Authors: Nocivelli Brittany , Shepherd Victoria , Hood Kerenza , Wallace Carolyn , Wood Fiona
Published: April 2023

Background
With an ageing population, older adults will have more complex health and social care needs and many of these older adults will be living in care homes. Despite the growth in care home populations, care home residents are often excluded from research that could potentially benefit their care. The purpose of this scoping review is to explore resident-related barriers and facilitators to including older people living in UK care homes in research and to identify potential approaches to modify such barriers.
Method
The 6-stage scoping review methodology framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley guided this review. Five electronic databases (MedLine, PsychINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL) and grey literature were searched. Identified articles went through two levels of screening, and those deemed relevant were collated, summarised and reported using a thematic analysis approach.
Results
90 reports were eligible for inclusion and, were synthesised into 7 themes and related subthemes: (1) research design; (2) understanding and beliefs about research (resident and care home staff); (3) communication; (4) relationships; (5) eligibility criteria (resident and care home); (6) preference-based decisions; and (7) care home staff and environment. Given the complex interplay of the factors identified, both direct and indirect factors were included.
Conclusions
A number of recurring barriers and facilitators to the inclusion of care home residents in research are reported. However, isolating resident-related barriers was complex as both direct and indirect factors must be considered as influential. Understanding the barriers to inclusion will enable these factors to be addressed as increase the evidence-base for care provided to older people living in care homes.
Development and evaluation of patient-specific kidney surgical guide fabricated using 3D printing technology and realistic kidney phantom for partial nephrectomy
Authors: Ock Junhyeok , Kim Taehun , On Sungchul , Lee Sangwook , Kyung Yoon Soo , Kim Namkug
Published: April 2023

Partial nephrectomy has been demonstrated to preserve renal function compared with radical nephrectomy. Computed tomography (CT) is used to reveal localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, marking RCC directly and quantitatively on a patient's kidney during an operation is difficult. We fabricated and evaluated a 3D-printed kidney surgical guide (3DP-KSG) with a realistic kidney phantom. The kidney phantoms including parenchyma and three different RCC locations and 3DP-KSG were designed and fabricated based on a patient's CT image. 3DP-KSG was used to insert 16-gauge intravenous catheters into the kidney phantoms, which was scanned by CT. The catheter insertion points and angle were evaluated. The measurement errors of insertion points were 1.597 ± 0.741 mm, and cosine similarity of trajectories was 0.990 ± 0.010. The measurement errors for X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis in the insertion point were 0.611 ± 0.855 mm, 0.028 ± 1.001 mm, and − 0.510 ± 0.923 mm. The 3DP-KSG targeted the RCC accurately, quantitatively, and immediately on the surface of the kidney, and no significant difference was shown between the operators. Partial nephrectomy will accurately remove the RCC using 3DP-KSG in the operating room.
Mercury (II) sensor by forming Hg/Ag amalgam based on silver nanoparticles modified screen-printed carbon electrode
Authors: Wang Qihui , Zhan Yifang , Peng Junjun , Liu Huihong
Published: April 2023

The fabrication of a silver nanoparticles/chitosan/carbon nanotubes modified screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) as a highly sensitive platform for ultratrace mercury (II) detection was reported here. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by chitosan (CS) and carbon nanotube (CNT) hybrids with a green way. Chitosan trapped AgNPs anchoring on the sidewalls of the CNT arrange the nanoscale silver electrode arrays. Hg/Ag amalgam was formed on the surface of AgNPs/CS/CNT modified SPCE by depositing the mercury species to elemental mercury. Hg(II) detection is achieved by the stripping both Hg0 and Ag0 at +0.16V in the supporting electrolyte (0.1M HCl and 0.1 M KCl). This selective and sensitive detection method exhibits an excellent linear Hg(II) concentration range of 1.0 nM to 12.6 nM and a low detection limit of 0.4nM with R2 = 0.982 (n=13). The newly designed electrode has been successfully employed to measure Hg(II) in the textile samples with a good stability. The method demonstrates acceptable reproducibility and precision.
Aortic endograft infection by Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense with acquired clarithromycin resistance is associated with unreported gene mutations: A case report
Authors: Akiyama Yutaro , Iwamoto Noriko , Kamada Keisuke , Yoshida Atsushi , Osugi Asami , Mitarai Satoshi , Suzuki Tetsuya , Yamamoto Kei , Nagashima Maki , Horai Tetsuya , Ohmagari Norio
Published: April 2023

Background
Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense (MMA) comprises a group of non-tuberculous, rapidly growing mycobacteria. Although MMA can cause pulmonary diseases, surgical site infections, and disseminated diseases, aortic endograft infection has not been reported. Here, we describe the first case of aortic endograft infection caused by MMA.
Case presentation
Two months after stent-graft insertion for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, an 85-year-old man was admitted with fever and abdominal pain and was diagnosed with aortic endograft infection. Despite 14 days of meropenem and vancomycin intravenous administration, periaortic fluid pooling increased as compared to that before antibiotic administration. The abscess was drained, and fluorescent acid-fast staining of the abscess fluid revealed bacilli. The organism was identified as MMA by genetic testing. Intravenous imipenem–cilastatin (IPM/CS), amikacin (AMK), and oral clarithromycin (CAM) were administered. After 2 months, oral CAM and sitafloxacin were administered because the abscess had decreased in size. However, after 6 weeks, the abscess increased in size again. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the drainage fluid from the abscess resulted in the isolation of an MMA strain that had acquired resistance to CAM. Intravenous IPM/CS, AMK, and oral linezolid were added to the treatment regimen along with oral CAM and STFX. However, he was not fully cured and died 6 months later. Neither the full-length erythromycin ribosome methyltransferase (erm)(41) gene nor the rrl or rpIV gene mutations were found by Sanger sequencing in the pre- and post-treatment strains. Whole-genome sequence analysis of the post-treatment strain revealed mutations in genes with no previous reports of association with macrolide resistance.
Conclusions
Aortic endograft infection caused by MMA strain is extremely rare; nonetheless, MMA should be suspected as the causative microorganism when broad-spectrum antimicrobials are ineffective.
Regional differences in fishing behavior determine whether a marine reserve network enhances fishery yield
Authors: Lenihan Hunter S. , Reed Daniel C. , Vigo Maria , Leiphardt Callie , Hofmiester Jennifer K.K. , Gallagher Jordan P. , Voss Chris , Moore Peyton , Miller Robert J.
Published: April 2023

Model simulations show that a network of marine reserves can enhance yield in depleted fisheries by protecting populations, particularly large, old spawners that supply larvae for interspersed fishing grounds. The ability of marine reserves to enhance sustainable fisheries is much less evident. We report empirical evidence of a marine reserve network improving yield for a sustainable spiny lobster fishery, apparently through the spillover of adult lobsters and behavioral adaptation by the fishing fleet. Results of a Before-After, Control-Impact analysis found catch, effort, and Catch-Per-Unit Effort increased after the establishment of marine reserves in the northern region of the fishery where fishers responded by fishing intensively at reserve borders, but declined in the southern region where they vacated once productive fishing grounds. Our results highlight the value of collaborative research and education programs involving diverse stakeholders for preparing fisheries to operate productively within a seascape that includes a large marine reserve network.
Effect of low-frequency electrical acupoint stimulation on nausea and vomiting in NSCLC patients receiving highly emetogenic regimens
Authors: Zhang Lingling , Wei Xing , Wang Xiangyi , Lin Li , Tang Chuanhao , Liang Jun
Published: April 2023

Purpose: To assess the efficacy and tolerability of low-frequency electrical acupoint stimulation plus standard antiemetics following highly emetogenic chemotherapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Methods: NSCLC patients who received highly emetogenic chemotherapy were randomized into control and observation groups by random number table. Patients in the observation group received the triple antiemetic regime plus low-frequency electrical acupoint stimulation (since the day of chemotherapy for 5 days consecutively). Meanwhile, those in the observation group only received the triple antiemetic regime. The severity of nausea and vomiting episodes were recorded on a daily basis. On the sixth day after chemotherapy, the patients were scored by the Functional Living Index Emesis (FLIE) questionnaire. The complete response rate of vomiting, incidence of nausea, severity of nausea, and FLIE score were compared between the two groups.
Results: Compared with the control group, the incidence of nausea decreased significantly in the observation group throughout the course of treatment (66.7% vs. 40.5%, p=0.016). At 24-120h after chemotherapy, the complete response rate of vomiting at the delayed stage increased conspicuously in the observation group (88.1% vs. 69.1%, p=0.033). At this stage, the proportion of patients without nausea in the observation group was also significantly higher (73.8% vs. 47.6%, p=0.014). The total FLIE scores in the observation group were conspicuously higher than the control group (106.05±15.35 vs. 95.04±20.02, p=0.02).
Conclusion: The combination of the triple antiemetic regimen and low-frequency electrical acupoint stimulation memorably improves chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in NSCLC patients.
Comparative hydrodynamic and nanoscale imaging study on the interactions of teicoplanin-A2 and bovine submaxillary mucin as a model ocular mucin
Authors: Chun Taewoo , Pattem Jacob , Gillis Richard B. , Dinu Vlad T. , Yakubov Gleb E. , Corfield Anthony P. , Harding Stephen E.
Published: April 2023

Glycopeptide antibiotics are regularly used in ophthalmology to treat infections of Gram-positive bacteria. Aggregative interactions of antibiotics with mucins however can lead to long exposure and increases the risk of resistant species. This study focuses on the evaluation of potential interactions of the last line of defence glycopeptide antibiotic teicoplanin with an ocular mucin model using precision hydrodynamic and microscopic techniques: sedimentation velocity in the analytical ultracentrifuge (SV-AUC), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). For the mixtures of teicoplanin at higher doses (1.25 mg/mL and 12.5 mg/mL), it was shown to interact and aggregate with BSM in the distributions of both sedimentation coefficients by SV-AUC and hydrodynamic radii by DLS. The presence of aggregates was confirmed by AFM for higher concentrations. We suggest that teicoplanin eye drop formulations should be delivered at concentrations of < 1.25 mg/mL to avoid potentially harmful aggregations and to reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance
Molecular screening of the most common streptococci affecting Common pandora (Pagellus erythrinus Linnaeus, 1758) caught from the Mediterranean coast of Tripoli
Authors: Eissa Alaa Eldin , Asheg Abdulatif A. , Sharaf Mahmoud S. , Abdelbaky Awad A. , Mhara Abdelsalam Abu , Dakhil Tarek D. , Gaafar Alkhateib Y. , Ismail Eman M. , Behiri Said El , Afiffy Emad A. , Prince Abdelbary , Shahin Khalid
Published: April 2023

A total number of samples, 270 Common pandora (Pagellus erythrinus), were clinically examined for possible streptococcal infection. The fishes were collected from the area extending from Tripoli to Tajoura (east to Tripoli). S. iniae, S. dysgalactiae, S. phocae, Enterococcus fecalis, and other non-streptococcal spp. Such as Aeromonas hydrophila, Pseudomonas, and Photobacterium damselae were biochemically identified. 90 fish per season were thoroughly screened for streptococcal infection for three successive seasons. Regardless of the season, S. iniae and E. fecalis were the most isolated streptococcal spp (13% and 8.88%, respectively). In contrast, the most retrieved non-streptococcal spp were A. hydrophila, followed by Pseudomonas spp, with isolation percentages of 10% and 14.44%, respectively. The highest infections have occurred during winter, followed by summer, then spring seasons with isolation percentages of 53.34%, 50%, and 43.4%, respectively. The majority of the isolated bacterial spp were sensitive to Erythromycin, Florfenicol, and sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim. Molecular screening utilizing the sequences of 16S rRNA genes has confirmed the phylogenetic relationship to S. dysgalactiae, E. faecalis, S. iniae, and S. phocae isolates with similarity percentages exceeding 99.6%. The sequences were deposited in the GenBank with accession numbers (OK033868, OK033869, OK033870, and OK033871).
Evaluation of Skin Sympathetic Nervous Activity for Classification of Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Outcome Prediction
Authors: Xing Yantao , Cheng Hongyi , Yang Chenxi , Xiao Zhijun , Yan Chang , Chen FeiFei , Li Jiayi , Zhang Yike , Cui Chang , Li Jianqing , Liu Chengyu
Published: April 2023

Classification and outcome prediction of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is critical for improving the survival rate of patients. Early or delayed neurological deterioration is common in ICH patients, which may lead to changes in the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Therefore, we proposed a new framework for ICH classification and outcome prediction based on skin sympathetic nervous activity (SKNA) signals. A customized measurement device presented in our previous papers was used to collect data. 117 subjects (50 healthy control subjects and 67 ICH patients) were recruited for this study to obtain their five-minute ECG and SKNA signals. We extracted the signal’s time-domain, frequency-domain, and nonlinear features and analyzed their differences between healthy control subjects and ICH patients. Subsequently, we established the ICH classification and outcome evaluation model based on the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). In addition, HRV as an autonomic nerve assessment method was also included as a comparison method in this study. The results showed significant differences in most features of the SKNA signal between healthy control subjects and ICH patients. The ICH patients with good outcomes have a higher change rate and complexity of SKNA signal than those with bad outcomes. In addition, the accuracy of the model for ICH classification and outcome prediction based on the SKNA signal was more than 91% and 83%, respectively. The ICH classification and outcome prediction based on the SKNA signal proved to be a feasible method in this study. Furthermore, the features of change rate and complexity, such as entropy measures, can be used to characterize the difference in SKNA signals of different groups. The method can potentially provide a new tool for rapid classification and outcome prediction of ICH patients.
Exit from Mitosis in Budding Yeast: Protein Phosphatase 1 is Required Downstream from Cdk1 Inactivation
Authors: Keaton Jason M. , Workman Benjamin G. , Xie Linfeng , Paulson James R.
Published: April 2023

We show that inactivation of the protein kinase Cdk1/Cyclin B (Cdc28/Clb 2 in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is not only necessary for cells to leave mitosis, as is well known, but also sufficient to trigger mitotic exit. Cells carrying the mutation cdc28-as1, which makes Cdc28 (Cdk1) uniquely sensitive to the ATP analog 1NM-PP1, were arrested with spindle poisons and then treated with 1NM-PP1 to inhibit Cdk1. This treatment caused the cells to exit mitosis and enter G1-phase as shown by initiation of rebudding (without cytokinesis), production of “shmoos” (when α-factor was present), stabilization of Sic1, and degradation of Clb2. This result provides a system in which to test whether particular gene products are required downstream from Cdk1 inactivation in exit from mitosis. In this system, the mutation cdc28-as1 is combined with a conditional mutation in the gene of interest. Using this approach, we demonstrate that Protein Phosphatase 1 (PPase1; Glc7 in S. cerevisiae) is required for reestablishment of G1-phase following Cdk1 inactivation. This system could be used to test whether other protein phosphatases are also needed downstream from Cdk1 inactivation, and it could be combined with phosphoproteomics to gain information about the substrates those phosphatases act on during mitotic exit.
A New Empirical Fit to Galaxy Rotation Curves
Authors: Flynn David , Cannaliato James
Published: April 2023

This is a study of 84 stellar velocity curves to test an empirical solution forobserved rotation curves in galaxies. We chose the SPARC data [1] gatheredfrom 175 galaxies, then selected the 84 that had the highest quality data forrotation curve velocity and HI mass. The goal was to bring the observedvelocities back to that predicted by Kepler with a single correction factor.Using the nearest and farthest stellar velocities from each galactic data setas boundary points, we superimposed a mathematical spinning disk over theobserved stars. Using Kepler’s third law, we calculated what radius andangular velocity would correct each graph to predicted values. We foundthat an angular velocity for our model could be found to correct each of thegalaxies tested. The angular velocity is represented by ω and referred to asthe EPS curve in our graphs. We are saving our description of the processrelated to the acronym for a later paper. ω values were found to fall between 1.97 and 15.35 rads/sec with a statistical mean of 7.06.
Acute myeloid leukemia cells and MSC-derived exosomes inhibiting transformation in myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Ren Fanggang , Li Shuo , Zhang Hongyu , Wang Hongwei
Published: April 2023

Aims To investigate the mechanism of exosomes role in the transformation of MDS to AML.Methods Exosomes in culture supernatants of MDS and AML cell lines, were extracted by ultrafiltration and identified in three ways: morphology, size and exosome surface marker proteins. Exosomes from AML cell lines were then co-cultured with MDS cell lines and their effects on the proliferation, cycle, differentiation, apoptosis and cell microenvironment of MDS cell lines were analysed by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. Furthermore, exosomes from MSC were extracted for further authentication.RESULTS The transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, Western blotting and flow cytometry methods all showed that ultrafiltration is a reliable method for extracting exosomes. Exosomes from AML cell lines inhibit the proliferation of MDS cell lines, block cell cycle progression and promote apoptosis and cell differentiation. It also leads to increased secretion of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in MDS cell lines. In addition, MSC-derived exosomes were found to inhibit the proliferation of MDS cell lines, arrest cell cycle progression, promote apoptosis, and inhibit differentiation.CONCLUSION In this study, we explored that exosomes of AML cell line origin affect the apoptosis of MDS cell lines via the TNF-α/ROS-Caspase3 pathway, thereby influencing the conversion of MDS to AML. Additional, MSC-derived exosomes inhibited the transformation of MDS to AML.
Bile acid derivatives from gut microbiota promote GBPs-mediated activation of caspase- 4/11 by LPS through lncRNA57RIK
Authors: Gao Yunhuan , Yue Jianmei , Ha Fushuang , Wang Ya , Wang Rong , Yang Xiaorong , Zhang Junqi , Liu Xinqi , Zhang Yuan , Han Tao , Yang Rongcun
Published: April 2023

Background: Gut microbiota contributes to the regulation of host immune response and homeostasis. Bile acid (BA) derivatives from gut microbiota can affect the differentiation and function of the immune cells. However, it is incompletely clear for the regulation of BA metabolites in these immune cells. Here we investigated the effects the BA metabolites on the macrophages.
Results: We here find that BA metabolites can regulate sensitivity of macrophages to LPS and or Gram-negative bacteria. BA derivatives could induce lncRNA57RIKexpression through sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2) in the macrophages of mice and humans, which play a critical role in Gram-negative bacteria mediated IL-1βmaturation and pyroptosis of macrophages. This lncRNA57RIK could bind intracellular proteases caspase-4/11 with guanylate-binding protein 1 (GBP1) in the human and mice together to cause LPS mediated activation of caspase-4/11. Murine or human lncRNA57RIK knockout (KO) macrophages did not produce response(s) to LPS or Gram-negative bacteria. LncRNA57RIK KO mice had also reduced inflammatory responses to LPS or Salmonella typhimurium (S.T) infection.
Conclusion: Taken together, gut microbiota derived BA metabolites mediated lncRNA57RIK is necessary for LPS induced caspase-4/11 activation.
The comparative effectiveness of migraine preventive drugs: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Lampl Christian , MaassenVanDenBrink Antoinette , Amin Faisal Mohammad , Deligianni Christina I , Gil-Gouveia Raquel , Jassal Tanvir , Sanchez-del-Rio Margarita , Reuter Uwe , Uluduz Derya , Versijpt Jan , Zeraatkar Dena , Sacco Simona
Published: April 2023

Objective: While there are several trials that support the efficacy of various drugs for migraine prophylaxis against placebo, there is limited evidence addressing the comparative safety and efficacy of these drugs. We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis to facilitate comparison between drugs for migraine prophylaxis.
Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and clinicaltrials.gov from inception to August 13, 2022, for randomized trials of pharmacological treatments for migraine prophylaxis in adults. Reviewers worked independently and in duplicate to screen references, extract data, and assess risk of bias. We performed a frequentist network meta-analysis and assessed the certainty (quality) of evidence using the GRADE approach.
Results: We identified 74 eligible trials, reporting on 32,990 patients. We found high certainty evidence that monoclonal antibodies acting on the calcitonin gene related peptide or its receptor (CGRP(r)mAbs), gepants, and topiramate increase the proportion of patients who experience a 50% or more reduction in monthly migraine days, compared to placebo. We found moderate certainty evidence that beta-blockers, valproate, and amitriptyline increase the proportion of patients who experience a 50% or more reduction in monthly migraine days, and low certainty evidence that gabapentin may not be different from placebo. We found high certainty evidence that, compared to placebo, valproate and amitriptyline lead to substantial adverse events leading to discontinuation, moderate certainty evidence that topiramate, beta-blockers, and gabapentin increase adverse events leading to discontinuation, and moderate to high certainty evidence that (CGRP(r)mAbs) and gepants do not increase adverse events.
Conclusions: (CGRP(r)mAbs) have numerically the best safety over efficacy profile of all drugs for migraine prophylaxis, followed closely by gepants.
Multi-level flux optimization at the key regulatory node for enhanced production of naringenin using acetate in engineered Escherichia coli
Authors: Kim Dong Hwan , Hwang Hyun Gyu , Jung Gyoo Yeol
Published: April 2023

Background
Microbial production of naringenin has received much attention due to its pharmaceutical applicability and potential as a key molecular scaffold for various flavonoids. In particular, the oxaloacetate (OAA) node is a key regulatory node for the naringenin biosynthesis from acetate, acting as a critical linkage that reroutes tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates via anaplerosis of the glyoxylate cycle to the naringenin biosynthetic pathway. In this context, to efficiently produce naringenin from acetate, it is crucial to precisely regulate the carbon flux of the OAA-PEP regulatory node through appropriate pckA expression control, as the excessive overexpression of pckAcan cause the extensive loss of OAA and metabolic imbalance. However, considering the crucial impact of pckAon naringenin biosynthesis, the conventional strategy of single-level gene expression is limited in its ability to cover the large and balanced solution space, which could result in suboptimal naringenin production.
Results
This study conducted multi-layer fine-tuning of pckA expression for the precise exploration of optimal naringenin production from acetate in the large and balanced solution space. Specifically, a combinatorial expression library was generated at both transcriptional and translational levels through promoters with different strengths and rationally designed 5′-UTR variants with discrete translation efficiency. Additionally, we identified the effect of multi-level regulation of pckA expression by validating the correlation between PCK activity and naringenin production. As a result, the flux-optimized strain demonstrated a significant increase in naringenin production, with a 49.8-fold increase (and a 73.8-fold increase in naringenin yield on acetate) compared to the unoptimized strain, producing 122.12 mg/L naringenin with 20.65 mg naringenin/g acetate, which is a comparable result against those from conventional substrates.
Conclusions
Collectively, we demonstrated the significance of multi-level expression control at the key regulatory node in the metabolic pathway, covering the large and balanced solution space for precise flux rebalancing. This study proposes a platform strain for the biosynthesis of various flavonoids that can be derived from naringenin using acetate.