bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3. Mothers and Daughters in Jane Austen
Authors: Bartlett Nora
Published: January 2021

In this chapter, Bartlett examines the mother-daughter relationship in Jane Austen's six novels, particularly Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice. Regarding the former, the impact of parental death is discussed, as are Mrs. Dashwood's qualities and beliefs—particularly as they relate to motherhood. Regarding the latter, Bartlett explores the personality of Mrs. Bennet; the goals she has for her daughters; and a connection to all of Austen's heroines. Mansfield Park's three sisters are discussed, as well as Mrs. Price's child (Fanny), her adoption, and her mother's attitude toward sons vs daughters. Addressed is the death of Emma's mother (in Emma) for its appropriateness to the eighteenth century; and the role of Miss Taylor. Regarding Persuasion, there is a discussion of Anne Elliot and her family; the impact of her mother's death on her; and the mother-substitute's persuasiveness. Regarding Northanger Abbey, there is a discussion of Eleanor; her being motherless; and her family—particularly the impact of her father General Tilney. Mother-daughter sets in Sense and Sensibility are examined for their problems and personalities. Bartlett explores this novel’s pattern of a mother having one daughter who resembles herself, and the resulting bias; "sense" and "sensibility", as they apply to the Dashwood sisters; and Mrs. Dashwood's behaviour and its impact. Bartlett comments on Austen's heroines’ beliefs in love and honour vs their need for financial security. Mrs. Jennings and Mrs. Bennet are compared and contrasted, with Bartlett commenting on the latter's failings, regarding Elizabeth and Jane. Further explored is the topic of marriage and mothers, relating to Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice; the latter's Lydia being prized because she is like her mother; and the weaknesses of the Bennets as parents. Bartlett questions why there are so few sensible mothers in Austen's novels. Finally, a look at Mrs. Austen and Jane's sister Cassandra—and a possible reason why the latter destroyed most of Jane's letters.
5. Lady Susan
Authors: Bartlett Nora
Published: January 2021

This chapter examines the distinctive qualities of Jane Austen's Lady Susan—its form, the class of its main character, and the depth of evil presented in the work—compared to her other novels. Lady Susan is compared to other villainesses of eighteenth-century fiction. Bartlett looks at Austen's use of epistolary style and third-person narration. Given is a brief plot summary, as well as background on Lady Susan (including her reputation and irresistibility), her daughter Frederica, and other characters. Bartlett explores the view that Lady Susan is a psychopath. Lady Susan's friend and confidante, Mrs. Johnson, is discussed and compared to her. The closing of Lady Susan is reviewed. There is a look at Mrs. Vernon; her letter-writing; and her views on Lady Susan. Austen's juvenilia are examined, with especial focus on absurdity, hypocrisy, vanity, and selfishness. Bartlett comments on the De Courcy family; the significance of Frederica's letter to Reginald (letter 21); and Lady Susan's extent of hatred and contempt, as well as the character's view of rivals, enemies, and dupes. Bartlett discusses Lady Susan being unforgettable; Austen's likely view of the character; and Lady Susan's intelligence, lack of education, and ability to manipulate others. Lastly, Bartlett takes a look at Lady Susan and convention.
9. Emma in the Snow
Authors: Bartlett Nora
Published: January 2021

In this chapter, Bartlett examines how Jane Austen's significant use of weather contradicts beliefs that she is a writer with a narrow compass. Bartlett discusses the seasons covered in Austen's novels—winter being in each novel, but Emma being the only one with a snowfall. Austen's perceived feelings about snow—and how those feelings may have found their way into her novels, are explored. Bartlett presents her own feelings on snow and describes the impact of different types of weather on the characters’ behaviour in Emma, particularly snow in chapter fifteen; there is a closer look at where the main action of this chapter takes place, as well as this chapter's focal characters (and their descriptions). The similar behaviour (regardless of the weather) of George Knightly and Emma, as well as their suitability for each other, is touched on. Finally, Bartlett takes a closer look at the belief that Austen rarely uses symbolism in her writing; how her treatment of weather contradicts this belief; and the impact of weather and war on characters.
Biology teachers’ conceptions of Humankind Origin across secular and religious countries: an international comparison
Authors: Silva Heslley Machado , Oliveira Alandeon W. , Belloso Gabriela Varela , Díaz Martín Andrés , Carvalho Graça S.
Published: January 2021

Striving toward a better understanding of how the global spread of creationist ideology may impact biology teachers and teaching worldwide, this study comparatively examines how biology teachers from three Latin American countries (Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay) conceive the origin of humankind. It is reported that teachers from Uruguay (the most secular country) and Argentina (a country with intermediate religiosity) more frequently associated humankind origin with scientific terms Evolution, Natural selection, and Australopithecus. In contrast, Brazilian teachers stood out as those most frequently associating humankind’s origin to the religious term “God” alongside scientific terms. This study underscores the importance of the interplay of social factors (societal religiosity) and psychological factors (e.g., personal commitment) when considering the impact of teacher exposure to creationist ideology. It also highlights the need for biology teachers (particularly those in more religious countries) to undergo professional development.
Effects of exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation on changing platelets: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Ning , Peng Yang , Zhong Xinguang , Ma Zheng , He Suiping , Li Ying , Zhang Wencui , Gong Zijun , Yao Zhenjiang
Published: January 2021

Background

Numerous studies have concentrated on high-dose radiation exposed accidentally or through therapy, and few involve low-dose occupational exposure, to investigate the correlation between low-dose ionizing radiation and changing hematological parameters among medical workers.

Methods

Using a prospective cohort study design, we collected health examination reports and personal dose monitoring data from medical workers and used Poisson regression and restricted cubic spline models to assess the correlation between changing hematological parameters and cumulative radiation dose and determine the dose-response relationship.

Results

We observed that changing platelet of 1265 medical workers followed up was statistically different among the cumulative dose groups (P= 0.010). Although the linear trend tested was not statistically significant (Ptrend= 0.258), the non-linear trend tested was statistically significant (Pnon-linear= 0.007). Overall, there was a correlation between changing platelets and cumulative radiation dose (a change of βa0.008 × 109/L during biennially after adjusting for gender, age at baseline, service at baseline, occupation, medical level, and smoking habits; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.003,0.014 × 109/L). Moreover, we also found positive first and then negative dose-response relationships between cumulative radiation dose and changing platelets by restricted cubic spline models, while there were negative patterns of the baseline service not less than 10 years (− 0.015 × 109/L, 95% CI = − 0.024, − 0.007 × 109/L) and radiation nurses(− 0.033 × 109/L, 95% CI = − 0.049, − 0.016 × 109/L).

Conclusion

We concluded that although the exposure dose was below the limit, medical workers exposed to low-dose ionizing radiation for a short period of time might have increased first and then decreased platelets, and there was a dose-response relationship between the cumulative radiation dose and platelets changing.
Decreased Vascular Bundle 1 affects mitochondrial and plant development in rice
Authors: Zhang Lisha , Feng Ping , Deng Yao , Yin Wuzhong , Wan Yingchun , Lei Ting , He Guanghua , Wang Nan
Published: January 2021

Background

Mitochondria are vital regulators of plant growth and development, constitute the predominant source of ATP, and participate in multiple anabolic and catabolic metabolic pathways. But the mechanism by which dysfunctional mitochondria affect plant growth remains unknown, and more mitochondria-defective mutants need to be identified.

Results

A mitochondria-defective mutantdecreased vascular bundle 1(dvb1) was isolated from rice mutant library mutagenized by EMS (ethylmethane sulfonate), which shows dwarfism, narrow leaves, short branches, few vascular bundles, and low fertility. Map-based cloning, genetic complementation, and phylogenetic analysis revealed thatDVB1encodes a structural protein classified in the Mic10 family and is required for the formation of cristae in mitochondria, and was primarily expressed in vascular bundles. The DVB1 protein is partially localized in the mitochondria and capable of forming dimers and polymers. Comparing with the wild type, disruption of amino acid metabolism and increased auxin synthesis were observed indvb1mutant which also showed increased sensitivity to the mitochondrial electron transport inhibitors.

Conclusions

DVB1 belongs to Mic10 family and DVB1 is partially localized in the mitochondria. Further studies indicated that DVB1 is important for mitochondrial and plant development in rice.
Comparison of different shock wave frequencies on stone disintegration in extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy; 60, 80 and 100/min
Authors: Taher Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed El , Reda A. , Latif A. M. Abdel , Gammal M. A. El
Published: January 2021

Background

We know that SWL started on February 07, 1980, by Christian Chaussy with a wide range of indications. Complication rate has always remained very low and usually limited to minor side effects and complications. This study shows the impact of different shock wave release frequencies 60, 80 & 100/min on disintegration of renal stones.

Methods

A total number of 210 patients with mean age (40 ± 15) years with renal stone who were candidate for SWL divided into 3 groups each are 70 patients on rate 60,80 and 100 per min), Chi-Square test, Fisher’s exact test used in the study.

Results

Complete stone clearance( defined as complete stone free) was obtained in 184 patients 87.6% after one session, the highest success rate 94.3% were obtained in the second group of patients ( with shock wave frequency 80/min) followed by the first group 87.1% (with shock wave frequency 60/min), and patients with highest frequency (100/min) had the lowest success rate 81.4%.

Conclusions

The best option is using intermediate shock wave rate 80/min to obtain highest success rate and mild pain. Using high rate 100/min is not favorable due to least disintegration rate with highest pain. Using rate 60/min shows less success than rate 80/min despite it less painful.
Toxicity and risk of plant-produced alkaloids to Daphnia magna
Authors: Griffiths Megan R. , Strobel Bjarne W. , Hama Jawameer R. , Cedergreen Nina
Published: January 2021

Background

Many plants contain phytotoxic alkaloids to deter herbivorous pests and grazing animals. Alkaloids include quinolizidine and indole alkaloids found in the lupin (Lupinus spp.), an ornamental flower and emerging protein crop, as well as pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the ragwort (Senecio jacobaea), an invasive, weed-like flower. When lupins and ragworts are present in large densities in fields, there is a concern that alkaloids may leach into freshwater environments in amounts that may affect non-target organisms, such as Daphnia magna. This study aimed to investigate (i) the acute toxicity of alkaloids (gramine, heliotrine, lupanine, lupinine, monocrotaline, monocrotaline N-oxide, senecionine and sparteine) in D. magna, (ii) the contribution of these individual alkaloids to lupin plant extract toxicity, (iii) the longer term reproductive effects of a representative alkaloid, sparteine, and conclude with (iv) a tentative risk assessment for the sum of alkaloids measured in soil and surface waters.

Results

The alkaloids exhibited toxicity, with 48 h EC50 values in the range of 5.6 to > 100 mg/L. The 48 h EC50 of the Lupinus angustifolius plant extract was 1.38 mg/L, which was far more toxic than the simulated extract where lethality was < 10% at 10 mg/L after 48 h. Hence, non-measured compounds may have contributed to the joint toxicity. Daphnid mothers exposed to > 2.5 mg/L sparteine produced significantly fewer and smaller offspring during the 21-day exposure, making chronic effects occur at concentrations approximately 10-fold lower than the 48 h EC50 for sparteine. The risk assessment of cumulated alkaloids measured in drain, running and pond waters showed a potential risk, particularly for stagnant pond water, where concentrations were severalfold higher than in the drain and running waters.

Conclusions

The results highlight that natural toxins may contribute to poor chemical quality of natural waters, and that natural toxins from upcoming crops or invasive weeds should be considered in aquatic risk assessments.
Lifespans of passenger cars in Europe: empirical modelling of fleet turnover dynamics
Authors: Held Maximilian , Rosat Nicolas , Georges Gil , Pengg Hermann , Boulouchos Konstantinos
Published: January 2021

Cars have a high share of global transport-related CO2 emissions. To model the market diffusion of new energy carriers and powertrains like electric vehicles, fleet turnover models are commonly used. A decisive influence factor for the substitution dynamics of such transformations is the survival rate of the national car fleet of a country. It represents the likelihood of a car reaching a certain lifespan. Due to a lack of data, current methods to estimate such survival probabilities neglect the imports and exports of used cars. Existing studies are limited to countries with a predominant market of new cars, compared to low numbers of imported and exported used cars. In this study, we resolve this marked simplification and propose a new method to estimate survival probabilities for countries with a high number of imported and exported used cars. Empirical data on the car stock, on inflows of new and used cars, and on outflows of exported and scrapped cars are gathered from 71 national statistics offices. Survival rates of the car fleets of 31 European countries are derived, for which we find a pronounced regional variability. Average lifespans of cars vary from 8.0 to 35.1 years, with a mean of 18.1 years in Western and 28.4 years in Eastern European countries, revealing the high impact of cross-border flows of cars. The study also shows that survival rate estimates can be improved significantly even in the absence of reliable data if a combination of a Weibull and a Gaussian distribution is used. It is likely that the predictive power of existing models (regarding the future environmental impact of car fleets) could be improved significantly if these findings were considered accordingly. The findings of this study can directly be included in fleet turnover and policy assessment models. They also enable the analysis of economic and environmental spillover effects from the imports and exports of used cars between countries.
Phylogenetic analysis of the caspase family in bivalves: implications for programmed cell death, immune response and development
Authors: Vogeler Susanne , Carboni Stefano , Li Xiaoxu , Joyce Alyssa
Published: January 2021

Background

Apoptosis is an important process for an organism’s innate immune system to respond to pathogens, while also allowing for cell differentiation and other essential life functions. Caspases are one of the key protease enzymes involved in the apoptotic process, however there is currently a very limited understanding of bivalve caspase diversity and function.

Results

In this work, we investigated the presence of caspase homologues using a combination of bioinformatics and phylogenetic analyses. We blasted the Crassostrea gigas genome for caspase homologues and identified 35 potential homologues in the addition to the already cloned 23 bivalve caspases. As such, we present information about the phylogenetic relationship of all identified bivalve caspases in relation to their homology to well-established vertebrate and invertebrate caspases. Our results reveal unexpected novelty and complexity in the bivalve caspase family. Notably, we were unable to identify direct homologues to the initiator caspase-9, a key-caspase in the vertebrate apoptotic pathway, inflammatory caspases (caspase-1, − 4 or − 5) or executioner caspases-3, − 6, − 7. We also explored the fact that bivalves appear to possess several unique homologues to the initiator caspase groups − 2 and − 8. Large expansions of caspase-3 like homologues (caspase-3A-C), caspase-3/7 group and caspase-3/7-like homologues were also identified, suggesting unusual roles of caspases with direct implications for our understanding of immune response in relation to common bivalve diseases. Furthermore, we assessed the gene expression of two initiator (Cg2A, Cg8B) and four executioner caspases (Cg3A, Cg3B, Cg3C, Cg3/7) in C. gigas late-larval development and during metamorphosis, indicating that caspase expression varies across the different developmental stages.

Conclusion

Our analysis provides the first overview of caspases across different bivalve species with essential new insights into caspase diversity, knowledge that can be used for further investigations into immune response to pathogens or regulation of developmental processes.
Real-world safety of palbociclib in breast cancer patients in the United States: a new user cohort study
Authors: Beachler Daniel C. , de Luise Cynthia , Jamal-Allial Aziza , Yin Ruihua , Taylor Devon H. , Suzuki Ayako , Lewis James H. , Freston James W. , Lanes Stephan
Published: January 2021

Background

There is limited real-world safety information on palbociclib for treatment of advanced stage HR+/HER2- breast cancer.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study of breast cancer patients initiating palbociclib and fulvestrant from February 2015 to September 2017 using the HealthCore Integrated Research Database (HIRD), a longitudinal claims database of commercial health plan members in the United States.

The historical comparator cohort comprised patients initiating fulvestrant monotherapy from January 2011 to January 2015. Propensity score matching and Cox regression were used to estimate hazard ratios for various safety events. For acute liver injury (ALI), additional analyses and medical record validation were conducted.

Results

There were 2445 patients who initiated palbociclib including 566 new users of palbociclib-fulvestrant, and 2316 historical new users of fulvestrant monotherapy. Compared to these historical new users of fulvestrant monotherapy, new users of palbociclib-fulvestrant had a greater than 2-fold elevated risk for neutropenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, stomatitis and mucositis, and ALI. Incidence of anemia and QT prolongation were more weakly associated, and incidences of serious infections and pulmonary embolism were similar between groups after propensity score matching. After adjustment for additional ALI risk factors, the elevated risk of ALI in new users of palbociclib-fulvestrant persisted (e.g. primary ALI algorithm hazard ratio (HR) = 3.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.1–8.4).

Conclusions

This real-world study found increased risks of several adverse events identified in clinical trials, including neutropenia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia, but no increased risk of serious infections or pulmonary embolism when comparing new users of palbociclib-fulvestrant to fulvestrant monotherapy. We observed an increased risk of ALI, extending clinical trial findings of significant imbalances in grade 3/4 elevations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT).
Correction to: Socio-demographic determinants of unmet need for family planning among married women in Pakistan
Authors: Asif Muhammad Farhan , Pervaiz Zahid
Published: January 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Cross-cultural translation, adaptation, and validation of the Amharic version pain self-efficacy questionnaire in people with low back pain in Ethiopia
Authors: Chala Mulugeta Bayisa , Donnelly Catherine , Wondie Yemataw , Ghahari Setareh , Miller Jordan
Published: January 2021

Background

The Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) is a valid and reliable instrument that evaluates pain self-efficacy beliefs in people with pain conditions. However, it has not been validated and used in Ethiopia. We conducted this study to translate, adapt, and test the psychometric properties of the PSEQ in the Amharic language and Ethiopian context for its use with people experiencing low back pain (LBP).

Methods

The PSEQ was translated into Amharic and then back-translated into English. An expert review committee created a final Amharic version of the tool (PSEQ-Am), followed by pilot testing and cognitive debriefing with a sample of 20 people with LBP. The psychometric properties of the final version of PSEQ-Am were assessed in a sample of 240 people with LBP recruited from three rehabilitation centers in Ethiopia. Cronbach’s alpha and Intra-class correlation coefficient were calculated to describe the reliability and internal consistency of the tool. The SF-36-Am bodily pain subscale was used to assess convergent validity. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) were performed to determine the dimensionality of the instrument.

Results

PSEQ-Am demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.93) and internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.91). As hypothesized, the tool demonstrated a significant moderate correlation with the Bodily Pain subscale of the SF-36-Am (Rho = 0.51, p < 0.01). EFA analysis shows that the Amharic version of PSEQ is a dominant one factor and secondary two factor structure.

Conclusion

This study shows that PSEQ-Am is a reliable and valid tool that can be used in both clinical practice and research in the Ethiopian low back pain population.
Bone erosion in the 2nd metacarpophalangeal head: association with its bone mineral density by HR-pQCT in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Figueiredo Camille P. , Perez Mariana O. , Sales Lucas Peixoto , Medeiros Ana Cristina , Caparbo Valeria F. , Pereira Rosa M. R.
Published: January 2021

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease depicted by synovial inflammation leading to local and systemic bone loss. The aim of this study was to evaluate by a HR-pQCT (High Resolution Peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography) study which parameters are associated with volume of bone erosions including bone mineral density (BMD) around erosions (VOI 1 to 4 = volume of interest), BMD of metacarpophalangeal (MCP) head, BMD of radius, presence of osteophytes and joint space width (JSW).

Methods

Fifty female RA patients (18–50 years) were enrolled in this study. Demographic and disease-specific data, laboratory inflammatory parameters and handgrip test were performed. All patients underwent HR-pQCT of 2nd and 3rd MCP joints and distal radius, according to established protocols. The volume of bone erosions was evaluated by MIAF (Medical Image Analysis Framework) software. Osteophytes were analyzed by manual method.

Results

The mean of age and disease duration were 40.0 ± 6.0 yrs. and 10.8 ± 4.8 yrs., respectively. According to DAS-28 (Disease Activity Score), 54% (27) of the sample were in remission. However, when SDAI (Simplified Disease Activity Index) was used, only 18% (9) were under remission. The mean of HAQ (Health Assessment Questionnaire), ESR (Erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C reactive protein) were 0.9 ± 0.7, 13.9 ± 12.2 mm and 5.6 ± 7.5 mg/mL, respectively. Forty-six bone erosions (0.9 ± 1.2 erosion/patient) and 14 osteophytes (0.3 ± 0.7 osteophyte/patient) were found in 2nd MCP head. The median (IQR-Interquartile range) of volume of erosion and volume of osteophytes were 14.9 (5.7;35.9)mm3and 3.1 (2.1, 4.3)mm3, respectively. The mean of JSW was 80.5 ± 34.2 mm3. The volume of bone erosions was negatively correlated with BMD of 2nd MCP head, VOI-4 and JSW; and it was positively correlated with osteophytes number. Regarding absence or presence of erosion in 2nd MCP head, a significant difference was found between BMD of MCP head, osteophyte number and JSW. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that only BMD of 2nd MCP head was independently associated with volume of bone erosions.

Conclusion

BMD of MCP head was independently associated with volume of bone erosion, suggesting that this parameter should be used to analyze and monitoring bone destruction, as well as to evaluate treatment response in RA patients.
Prevalence and associated factors of baseline anemia among cervical cancer patients in Tikur Anbesa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia
Authors: Wassie Mulugeta , Aemro Agazhe , Fentie Beletech
Published: January 2021

Background

Almost one patient with cancer in two is anemic. About 40 to 64% of cervical cancer patients are anemic at time of presentation. The rate of anemia increases with the use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy and associated with poorer treatment outcome and quality of life. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess prevalence and associated factors of baseline anemia among cervical cancer patients in Tikur Anbesa Specialized Hospital (TASH), Ethiopia.

Methods

Institutional based cross-sectional study was done from March to April 2019 at TASH cancer center. Data were collected from patient’s chart using structured checklist and analyzed using Stata14.2. Binary logistic regression model was used to identify covariates which affected the outcome variable.

Result

This is a 3-years retrospective study from 2014 to 2016. The prevalence of baseline anemia among cervical cancer patients was 50.95%. Being stage IV [AOR = 2.38, 95% CI (1.21–4.67)], having comorbidity [AOR = 3.32, 95% CI (2.25–4.90)] and using substances (patients who used one, two or all of the three substances (cigarate, chat and alcohol)) [AOR = 2.03, 95% CI (1.21–3.41)] significantly increased the occurrence of anemia while being divorced [AOR = 0.6, 95% CI (0.36–0.98)] decreased the occurrence of anemia in the current study.

Conclusion

The prevalence of baseline anemia was high in the current study compared to other literatures. Significant factors of baseline anemia of cervical cancer in the current study were advanced stage (stage IV), presence of comorbidity, substance usage and being divorced (protective). The authors recommend that it is better to give special attention to those patients with the stated factors that could interfere treatment outcome.
“ … we were like tourists in the theatre, the interns assisted almost all procedures … ” Challenges facing the assistant medical officers training for the performance of caesarean section delivery in Tanzania
Authors: Sirili Nathanael , Anaeli Amani , Mselle Lilian , Nyongole Obadia , Massawe Siriel
Published: January 2021

Background

Training of mid-level providers is a task-sharing strategy that has gained popularity in the recent past for addressing the critical shortage of the health workforce. In Tanzania, training of mid-level providers has existed for over five decades; however, concerns exist regarding the quality of mid-level cadres amidst the growing number of medical universities. This study sought to explore the challenges facing the Assistant Medical Officers training for the performance of Caesarean section delivery in Tanzania.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative case study was carried out in four regions to include one rural district in each of the selected regions and two AMO training colleges in Tanzania. A semi-structured interview guide was used to interview 29 key informants from the district hospitals, district management, regional management, AMO training college, and one retired AMO. Also, four focus group discussions were conducted with 35 AMO trainees.

Results

Training of AMOs in Tanzania faces many challenges. The challenges include: use of outdated and static curriculum, inadequate tutors (lack of teaching skills and experience of teaching adults), inadequate teaching infrastructure in the existence of many other trainees, including interns, and limited or lack of scholarships and sponsorship for the AMO trainees.

Conclusions

The findings of this study underscore that the challenges facing AMO training for the performance of Caesarean section delivery have the potential to negatively impact the quality of Caesarean sections performed by this cadre. A holistic approach is needed in addressing these challenges. The solutions should focus on reviewing the curriculum, deploying qualified tutors, and improving the competencies of the available tutors through continuing medical education programmes. Furthermore, the government in collaboration with other stakeholders should work together to address the challenges in teaching infrastructure and providing financial support to this cadre that has continued to be the backbone of primary healthcare in Tanzania. Long-term solutions should consider deploying medical officers at the primary facilities and phasing out the performance of Caesarean section by AMOs.
The hard clam genome reveals massive expansion and diversification of inhibitors of apoptosis in Bivalvia
Authors: Song Hao , Guo Ximing , Sun Lina , Wang Qianghui , Han Fengming , Wang Haiyan , Wray Gregory A. , Davidson Phillip , Wang Qing , Hu Zhi , Zhou Cong , Yu Zhenglin , Yang Meijie , Feng Jie , Shi Pu , Zhou Yi , Zhang Libin , Zhang Tao
Published: January 2021

Background

Inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs) are critical regulators of programmed cell death that are essential for development, oncogenesis, and immune and stress responses. However, available knowledge regarding IAP is largely biased toward humans and model species, while the distribution, function, and evolutionary novelties of this gene family remain poorly understood in many taxa, including Mollusca, the second most speciose phylum of Metazoa.

Results

Here, we present a chromosome-level genome assembly of an economically significant bivalve, the hard clam Mercenaria mercenaria, which reveals an unexpected and dramatic expansion of the IAP gene family to 159 members, the largest IAP gene repertoire observed in any metazoan. Comparative genome analysis reveals that this massive expansion is characteristic of bivalves more generally. Reconstruction of the evolutionary history of molluscan IAP genes indicates that most originated in early metazoans and greatly expanded in Bivalvia through both lineage-specific tandem duplication and retroposition, with 37.1% of hard clam IAPs located on a single chromosome. The expanded IAPs have been subjected to frequent domain shuffling, which has in turn shaped their architectural diversity. Further, we observed that extant IAPs exhibit dynamic and orchestrated expression patterns among tissues and in response to different environmental stressors.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that sophisticated regulation of apoptosis enabled by the massive expansion and diversification of IAPs has been crucial for the evolutionary success of hard clam and other molluscan lineages, allowing them to cope with local environmental stresses. This study broadens our understanding of IAP proteins and expression diversity and provides novel resources for studying molluscan biology and IAP function and evolution.
Genetic dissection of the mitochondrial lipoylation pathway in yeast
Authors: Pietikäinen Laura P. , Rahman M. Tanvir , Hiltunen J. Kalervo , Dieckmann Carol L. , Kastaniotis Alexander J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Lipoylation of 2-ketoacid dehydrogenases is essential for mitochondrial function in eukaryotes. While the basic principles of the lipoylation processes have been worked out, we still lack a thorough understanding of the details of this important post-translational modification pathway. Here we used yeast as a model organism to characterize substrate usage by the highly conserved eukaryotic octanoyl/lipoyl transferases in vivo and queried how amenable the lipoylation system is to supplementation with exogenous substrate.

Results

We show that the requirement for mitochondrial fatty acid synthesis to provide substrates for lipoylation of the 2-ketoacid dehydrogenases can be bypassed by supplying the cells with free lipoic acid (LA) or octanoic acid (C8) and a mitochondrially targeted fatty acyl/lipoyl activating enzyme. We also provide evidence that theS.cerevisiaelipoyl transferase Lip3, in addition to transferring LA from the glycine cleavage system H protein to the pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (KGD) E2 subunits, can transfer this cofactor from the PDH complex to the KGD complex. In support of yeast as a model system for human metabolism, we demonstrate that the human octanoyl/lipoyl transferases can substitute for their counterparts in yeast to support respiratory growth and protein lipoylation. Like the wild-type yeast enzyme, the human lipoyl transferase LIPT1 responds to LA supplementation in the presence of the activating enzyme LplA.

Conclusions

In the yeast model system, the eukaryotic lipoylation pathway can use free LA and C8 as substrates when fatty/lipoic acid activating enzymes are targeted to mitochondria. Lip3 LA transferase has a wider substrate specificity than previously recognized. We show that these features of the lipoylation mechanism in yeast are conserved in mammalian mitochondria. Our findings have important implications for the development of effective therapies for the treatment of LA or mtFAS deficiency-related disorders.
Evidence of the presence of Borrelia burgdorferi in dogs and associated ticks in Egypt
Authors: Elhelw R. , Elhariri M. , Hamza D. , Abuowarda M. , Ismael E. , Farag H.
Published: January 2021

Background

Borrelia burgdorferi is the spirochete that causes Lyme Borreliosis (LB), which is a zoonotic tick-borne disease of humans and domestic animals. Hard ticks are obligate haematophagous ectoparasites that serve as vectors of Borrelia burgdorferi. Studies on the presence of Lyme borreliosis in Egyptian animals and associated ticks are scarce.

Methods

This study was conducted to detect B. burgdorferi in different tick vectors and animal hosts. Three hundred animals (dogs=100, cattle=100, and camels=100) were inspected for tick infestation. Blood samples from 160 tick-infested animals and their associated ticks (n=1025) were collected and examined for the infection with B. burgdorferi by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. The identified tick species were characterized molecularly by PCR and sequencing of the ITS2 region.

Results

The overall tick infestation rate among examined animals was 78.33% (235/300). The rate of infestation was significantly higher in camels (90%), followed by cattle (76%) and dogs (69%); (P = 0.001). Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus, and both Hyalomma dromedarii and Amblyomma variegatum, were morphologically identified from infested dogs, cattle, and camels; respectively. Molecular characterization of ticks using the ITS2 region confirmed the morphological identification, as well as displayed high similarities of R. sanguineus, H. dromedarii, and A. Variegatu with ticks identified in Egypt and various continents worldwide. Just one dog (1.67%) and its associated tick pool of R. sanguineus were positive for B. burgdorferi infection. The 16S rRNA gene sequence for B. burgdorferi in dog and R. sanguineus tick pool showed a 100% homology.

Conclusion

Analyzed data revealed a relatively low rate of B. burgdorferi infection, but a significantly high prevalence of tick infestation among domesticated animals in Egypt, which possesses a potential animal and public health risk. Additionally, molecular characterization of ticks using the ITS2 region was a reliable tool to discriminate species of ticks and confirmed the morphological identification.
Peptide enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (pELISA) as a possible alternative to the neutralization test for evaluating the immune response to IBV vaccine
Authors: Wu Qi , Lin Zhixian , Wu Jinsen , Qian Kun , Shao Hongxia , Ye Jianqiang , Qin Aijian
Published: January 2021

Background

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a coronavirus, is one of the most important poultry pathogens worldwide due to its multiple serotypes and poor cross-protection. Vaccination plays a vital role in controlling the disease. The efficacy of vaccination in chicken flocks can be evaluated by detecting neutralizing antibodies with the neutralization test. However there are no simple and rapid methods for detecting the neutralizing antibodies.

Results

In this study, a peptide enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (pELISA) as a possible alternative to the neutralization test for evaluating the immune response to IBV vaccine was developed. The pELISA could indirect evaluate neutralizing antibody titers against different types of IBV in all tested sera. The titers measured with the pELISA had a coefficient of 0.83 for neutralizing antibody titers.

Conclusions

The pELISA could detect antibodies against different types of IBV in all tested sera. The pELISA has the potential to evaluate samples for IBV-specific neutralizing antibodies and surveillance the infection of IBV.
Investigation of Kluyveromyces marxianus as a novel host for large‐scale production of porcine parvovirus virus‐like particles
Authors: Yang Deqiang , Chen Lei , Duan Jinkun , Yu Yao , Zhou Jungang , Lu Hong
Published: January 2021

Background

Porcine Parvovirus (PPV) is a Parvovirinae virus that can cause embryonic and fetal loss and death and mummification in affected fetal pigs. Unlike conventional vaccines, virus-like particles (VLPs) inherit the natural structure of their authentic virions and highly immunostimulatory that can induce strong humoral immune and T cell responses with no risk of pathogenicity. The production of PPV VLPs is still a challenge based on traditional expression platforms due to their low yields and high culture costs. Kluyveromyces marxianus is a safe and fast-growing eukaryote that can get high biomass with low-cost cultures. In this study, we investigated the expression and downstream processes of PPV VLPs in K. marxianus, and the potential for effective stand-alone vaccines.

Results

After optimization according to the codon bias of K. marxianus, the VP2 protein from Kresse strain was highly expressed. In a 5 L fermentator, the yield of PPV VLPs reached 2.5 g/L, quantified by HPLC, using a defined mineral medium after 48 h fermentation. Two strategies were established to purify intracellular PPV VLPs: (i) Using the cation exchange chromatography coupled with Sephacryl® S-500 HR chromatography to purify VLPs from the supernatants of pH adjusted cell lysates. (ii) Using anion exchange chromatography followed by cross-flow diafiltration to recover the VLPs precipitated in pH adjusted cell lysates. The purity of PPV VLPs reached about 95%, and total recovery was more than 60%. Vaccination of mice with the purified PPV VLPs induced high titers of specific IgG antibodies in sera, and showed hemagglutination inhibitions on both swine and guinea pig erythrocytes. Spleen lymphocyte proliferation and cytokines detection suggested the PPV VLPs produced by K. marxianus provoked the cellular immune and humoral immunity responses in mice.

Conclusions

This is the highest production of recombinant PPV VLPs achieved to date. The superiorities, Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), high production, short lead time, and low cost, make K. marxianus a greatly competitive platform for bioproduction of PPV VLPs vaccine.
Cisplatin loaded multiwalled carbon nanotubes reverse drug resistance in NSCLC by inhibiting EMT
Authors: Qi Yuxin , Yang Wenping , Liu Shuang , Han Fanjie , Wang Haibin , Zhao Yonghong , Zhou Yufa , Zhou Daijun
Published: January 2021

Background

Lung cancer is one of the important health threats worldwide, of which 5-year survival rate is less than 15%. Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for about 80% of all lung cancer with high metastasis and mortality.

Methods

Cisplatin loaded multiwalled carbon nanotubes (Pt-MWNTS) were synthesized and used to evaluate the anticancer effect in our study. The NSCLC cell lines A549 (cisplatin sensitive) and A549/DDP (cisplatin resistant) were used in our in vitro assays. MTT was used to determine Cancer cells viability and invasion were measured by MTT assay and Transwell assay, respectively. Apoptosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition related marker proteins were measured by western blot. The in vivo anti-cancer effect of Pt-MWNTs were performed in male BALB/c nude mice (4-week old).

Results

Pt-MWNTS were synthesized and characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman, FT-IR spectroscopy and scan electron microscopy. No significant cytotoxicity of MWNTS was detected in both A549/DDP and A549 cell lines. However, Pt-MWNTS showed a stronger inhibition effect on cell growth than free cisplatin, especially on A549/DDP. We found Pt-MWNTS showed higher intracellular accumulation of cisplatin in A549/DDP cells than free cisplatin and resulted in enhanced the percent of apoptotic cells. Western blot showed that application of Pt-MWNTS can significantly upregulate the expression level of Bax, Bim, Bid, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 while downregulate the expression level of Bcl-2, compared with free cisplatin. Moreover, the expression level of mesenchymal markers like Vimentin and N-cadherin was more efficiently reduced by Pt-MWNTS treatment in A549/DDP cells than free cisplatin. In vivo study in nude mice proved that Pt-MWNTS more effectively inhibited tumorigenesis compared with cisplatin, although both of them had no significant effect on body weight.

Conclusion

Pt-MWNT reverses the drug resistance in the A549/DDP cell line, underlying its possibility of treating NSCLC with cisplatin resistance.
Lisbon’s COVID 19 response: harm reduction interventions for people who use alcohol and other drugs in emergency shelters
Authors: Fuertes Ricardo , Belo Elsa , Merendeiro Cristiana , Curado Adriana , Gautier Diana , Neto Ana , Taylor Hannah
Published: January 2021

Four emergency shelters were instituted in Lisbon during COVID-19, and are still in operation. Between March and August 2020, they served over 600 people. The shelters host a diverse population, including people experiencing homelessness, foreigners, LGBTI + people, those with reduced mobility, couples, those with pets, and People Who Use Drugs, including alcohol (henceforth PWUD). Individuals are provided care regardless of their immigration or residence status. In order to ensure continuity of care in the shelters and to bring in clients who usually refuse to be sheltered, a range of social and health interventions are integrated into the shelters. Harm reduction services ensure that the most vulnerable populations, PWUD and people experiencing homelessness, have access to the services they need. Innovations in service provision maximize the services impacts and pave the way for the future inclusion and development of these services.
The analysis of fertility quality of life and the influencing factors of patients with repeated implantation failure
Authors: Ni Ying , Tong Chenye , Huang Limin , Zhou Wenjie , Zhang Aijun
Published: January 2021

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the current status of fertility quality of life (QoL) and explore the influencing factors for infertile women with repeated implantation failure (RIF).

Methods

The sample consisted of 137 infertile women with RIF who were under treatment from January 2019 to December 2019 in the Reproductive Medical Center of Ruijin Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine in China. A general information questionnaire, FertiQoL scale, perceived social support scale (PSSS), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), and self-rating depression scale (SDS) were used to analyse the fertility QoL and related factors of RIF patients.

Results

The total fertility QoL score of RIF patients was 60.44 ± 11.60. The results of multivariate regression analysis showed that residence, financial difficulties, male infertility, BMI index, depression, and family social support were the main factors that influenced the fertility QoL of RIF patients (adjusted R2 = 0.762).

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, RIF patients’ psychological status must be addressed. Corresponding interventions such as building a sound family and social support system, creating a good medical environment and offering diverse health education should be provided to improve the fertility QoL of RIF patients.
Phosphatases in toll-like receptors signaling: the unfairly-forgotten
Authors: Lannoy Valérie , Côté-Biron Anthony , Asselin Claude , Rivard Nathalie
Published: January 2021

Over the past 2 decades, pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) have been shown to be on the front line of many illnesses such as autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases as well as allergies and cancer. Among PRRs, toll-like receptors (TLRs) are the most studied family. Dissecting TLRs signaling turned out to be advantageous to elaborate efficient treatments to cure autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders. However, a broad understanding of TLR effectors is required to propose a better range of cures. In addition to kinases and E3 ubiquitin ligases, phosphatases emerge as important regulators of TLRs signaling mediated by NF-κB, type I interferons (IFN I) and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases signaling pathways. Here, we review recent knowledge on TLRs signaling modulation by different classes and subclasses of phosphatases. Thus, it becomes more and more evident that phosphatases could represent novel therapeutic targets to control pathogenic TLRs signaling.

Graphic abstract