bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protocol of investigation into reporting quality of RCT abstracts on COVID-19 pursuant to CONSORT (CoCo study)—a review
Authors: Tulka Sabrina , Baulig Christine , Knippschild Stephanie
Published: December 2021

Background

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic developed into a global crisis, the enormity and urgency of which accelerated research activities in the field. At the same time, manuscripts describing these research projects underwent fast-track peer review procedures and were published in freely accessible formats. Although full texts about COVID-19 are currently available for free, abstracts continue to play a key role since they provide essential information and possibly a decision basis for therapies. Abstracts are particularly important in case the full texts are not free, not all reports have been published in English and in emergency situations when there is less time for comprehensive analysis of all full texts. It is therefore necessary to ensure that abstracts—as publications in miniature format—contain comprehensive and transparent information. The CONSORT statement for abstracts (CONSORT-A) offers guidelines to authors how to include all necessary information in an abstract.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the quality of reporting in medical research had already been the object of debate and criticism. The current crisis makes comprehensive documentation all the more important. Abstracts of COVID-19 RCTs should therefore report the criteria listed in the CONSORT-A statement fully and verifiably. The objective of this study is to check the completeness of abstracts of all COVID-19 RTCs published to date.

Methods

Based on a literature search in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library, all publications up to 29 October 2020 are identified and examined in terms of the subject matter (reported results from COVID-19 studies) and their study design (RTC). Subsequently, suitable publications are examined for completeness and quality of abstracts. The CONSORT checklist for RTC abstracts serves as a basis in this procedure. The primary endpoint of the study is the percentage of correctly implemented items of the CONSORT statement for abstracts. The frequency of correct reporting of each individual item is checked in a second step.

Discussion

The study is expected to contribute to evaluating the reporting quality on COVID-19 studies, and specifically the completeness of abstracts of RTCs. It may thus support the assessment of current research into COVID-19.

Trial registration

Registration was not required as the study investigated existing literature.
Isolation of infectious Theileria parva sporozoites secreted by infected Rhipicephalus appendiculatus ticks into an in vitro tick feeding system
Authors: Vimonish Rubikah , Dinkel Kelcey D. , Fry Lindsay M. , Johnson Wendell C. , Capelli-Peixoto Janaina , Bastos Reginaldo G. , Scoles Glen A. , Knowles Donald P. , Madder Maxime , Chaka George , Ueti Massaro W.
Published: December 2021

Background

Vector-borne diseases pose an increasing threat to global food security. Vaccines, diagnostic tests, and therapeutics are urgently needed for tick-borne diseases that affect livestock. However, the inability to obtain significant quantities of pathogen stages derived from ticks has hindered research. In vitro methods to isolate pathogens from infected tick vectors are paramount to advance transcriptomic, proteomic, and biochemical characterizations of tick-borne pathogens.

Methods

Nymphs of Rhipicephalus appendiculatus were infected with Theileria parva by feeding on a calf during an acute infection. Isolation of sporozoites was accomplished by feeding infected adult ticks on an in vitro tick feeding system. Sporozoite viability was tested using in vitro bovine lymphocytes.

Results

We isolated infectious T. parva sporozoites secreted into an in vitro tick feeding system. Infected adult R. appendiculatus ticks attached to and successfully fed on silicone membranes in the in vitro tick feeding system. Bovine blood in the receptacle was replaced with cell-free medium and the ticks were allowed to feed for 3 h to collect secreted T. parva sporozoites. Secreted sporozoites infected in vitro bovine lymphocytes, demonstrating that isolated sporozoites remained viable and infectious.

Conclusions

This work is the first to report the isolation of mature infectious T. parva sporozoites using an in vitro tick feeding system, which represents a significant step towards the development of a more efficient control strategy for T. parva. Isolation of infectious tick-stage parasites will facilitate the examination of the vector-pathogen interface, thereby accelerating the development of next-generation vaccines and treatment interventions for tick-borne pathogens.

Graphical Abstract
CTLA4-Ig treatment induces M1–M2 shift in cultured monocyte-derived macrophages from healthy subjects and rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Cutolo Maurizio , Soldano Stefano , Gotelli Emanuele , Montagna Paola , Campitiello Rosanna , Paolino Sabrina , Pizzorni Carmen , Sulli Alberto , Smith Vanessa , Tardito Samuele
Published: December 2021

Background

In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), macrophages play an important role in modulating the immunoinflammatory response through their polarisation into “classically” (M1) or “alternatively activated” (M2) phenotypes. In RA, CTLA4-Ig (abatacept) reduces the inflammatory activity of macrophages by interacting with the costimulatory molecule CD86. The study aimed to investigate the efficacy of CTLA4-Ig treatment to induce an M2 phenotype both in M1-polarised monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) obtained from healthy subjects (HS) and in cultured MDMs obtained from active RA patients.

Methods

Cultured MDMs were obtained from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 7 active RA patients and from 10 HS after stimulation with phorbol myristate acetate (5 ng/mL) for 24 h. HS-MDMs were then stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1 mg/mL) for 4 h to induce M1-MDMs. M1-MDMs and RA-MDMs were treated with CTLA4-Ig (100 μM and 500 μM) for 3, 12, 24, and 48 h. The gene expression of CD80, CD86, and TLR4 (M1 markers); CD163, CD204, and CD206 (surface M2 markers); and MerTK (functional M2 marker) was evaluated by qRT-PCR. The protein synthesis of surface M2 markers was investigated by Western blotting. The statistical analysis was performed by the Wilcoxon t-test.

Results

In LPS-induced HS-M1-MDMs, CTLA4-Ig 100 μM and 500 μM significantly downregulated the gene expression of M1 markers (3 h p<0.01 for all molecules; 12 h p<0.05 for TLR4 and CD86) and significantly upregulated that of M2 markers, primarily after 12 h of treatment (CD163: p < 0.01 and p < 0.05; CD206: p < 0.05 and p < 0.01; CD204: p < 0.05 by 100 mg/mL). Moreover, in these cells, CTLA4-Ig 500 μM increased the protein synthesis of surface M2 markers (p < 0.05). Similarly, in RA-MDMs, the CTLA4-Ig treatment significantly downregulated the gene expression of M1 markers at both concentrations primarily after 12 h (p < 0.05). Furthermore, both concentrations of CTLA4-Ig significantly upregulated the gene expression of CD206 (after 3 h of treatment; p < 0.05), CD163, and MerTK (after 12 h of treatment, p < 0.05), whereas CD204 gene expression was significantly upregulated by the high concentration of CTLA4-Ig (p < 0.05). The protein synthesis of all surface markers was increased primarily by CTLA4-Ig 500 μM, significantly for CD204 and CD206 after 24 h of treatment (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

CTLA4-Ig treatment seems to induce the in vitro shift from M1 to M2 macrophages, of both HS-M1-MDMs and RA-MDMs, as observed by the significant downregulation exerted on selected M1 markers and the upregulation of selected M2 markers suggesting an additional mechanism for its modulation of the RA inflammatory process.
Dietary supplementation of inulin alleviates metabolism disorders in gestational diabetes mellitus mice via RENT/AKT/IRS/GLUT4 pathway
Authors: Miao Miao , Dai Yongmei , Rui Can , Fan Yuru , Wang Xinyan , Fan Chong , Mu Juan , Hou Wenwen , Dong Zhiyong , Li Ping , Sun Guiju , Zeng Xin
Published: December 2021

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has significant short and long-term health consequences for both the mother and child. There is limited but suggestive evidence that inulin could improve glucose tolerance during pregnancy. This study assessed the effect of inulin on glucose homeostasis and elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying the inulin-induced antidiabetic effects during pregnancy.

Method

Female C57BL/6 mice were randomized to receive either no treatment, high-dose inulin and low-dose inulin for 7 weeks with measurement of biochemical profiles. A real-time2 (RT2) profiler polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array involved in glycolipid metabolism was measured.

Results

Inulin treatment facilitated glucose homeostasis in a dose-dependent manner by decreasing fasting blood glucose, advanced glycation end products and total cholesterol, and improving glucose tolerance. Suppressing resistin (RETN) expression was observed in the inulin treatment group and the expression was significantly correlated with fasting blood glucose levels. The ratios of p-IRS to IRS and p-Akt to Akt in liver tissue and the ratio of p-Akt to Akt in adipose tissue as well as the expression level of GLUT4 increased significantly after inulin treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated improvement of glucose and lipid metabolism by inulin was to activate glucose transport through the translocation of GLUT4 which was mediated by insulin signaling pathway repairment due to decreased expression of RETN and enhanced phosphorylation of IRS and Akt in GDM mice.
Epidemiological characteristics and genetic diversity of norovirus infections among outpatient children with diarrhea under 5 years of age in Beijing, China, 2011–2018
Authors: Li Weihong , Yan Hanqiu , Liu Baiwei , Tian Yi , Chen Yanwei , Jia Lei , Gao Zhiyong , Wang Quanyi
Published: December 2021

Background

Human noroviruses are the leading cause of sporadic cases and outbreaks of viral acute gastroenteritis in all age groups worldwide.

Methods

Epidemiological data and fecal specimens were collected between January 2011 and December 2018 from 4911 children < 5 years of age with diarrhea in three districts of Beijing. From 2011 to 2013, One-Step Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) was used to detect noroviruses, and from January 2014 to December 2018, norovirus GI and GII were screened using duplex quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). One-Step RT-PCR and RT-seminested PCR were performed to amplify the RNA-dependent polymerase and capsid genes of noroviruses in positive sample. Amplified products were sequenced directly; norovirus was typed using the online Norovirus Genotyping Tool v2.0 and phylogenetic analyses were conducted using MEGA-X.

Results

From 2011 to 2018, noroviruses were detected in 16.5% of specimens from children with diarrhea. The highest prevalence was observed in children aged 12 to 23 months (22.4%, 319/1421), followed by children aged 6 to 11 months (17.6%, 253/1441). The highest prevalence of norovirus infections occurred in autumn followed by winter, spring, and summer. From 2011 to 2018, the most prevalent dual types (genotype and polymerase type) were GII.4 Sydney[P31] (51.6%, 239/463), followed by GII.3[P12] (24.0%, 111/463), GII.4 2006b[P4 2006b] (7.3%, 34/463), GII.2[P16] (5.0%, 23/463), GII.17[P17] (2.6%, 12/463) and GII.6[P7] (2.6%, 12/463). GII.4 2006b[P4 2006b] predominated in 2011 and 2012. GII.4 Sydney[P31] predominated from 2013 to 2018. In total, 15 genotypes, 15 P-types and 19 dual types were detected in this study, reflecting the genetic diversity.

Conclusions

There were significant epidemiological characteristics and genetic diversity among outpatient children with norovirus infections < 5 years of age in Beijing from 2011 to 2018. These characteristics differ from those of norovirus outbreaks in Beijing. The complete genome sequences of each genotype are needed to better understand norovirus evolutionary mechanisms.
The geography of COVID-19 misinformation: using geospatial maps for targeted messaging to combat misinformation on COVID-19, South Africa
Authors: Chimoyi Lucy , Mabuto Tonderai , Dube Tanyaradzwa , Ntombela Nasiphi , Nchachi Tshegang , Tshisebe Dakalo , Chetty-Makkan Candice M. , Setswe Geoffrey K.
Published: December 2021

Objective

The proliferation of false information on COVID-19 mostly through social media is adversely affecting control efforts. The objective of this study was to identify areas where targeted effective messaging can be useful in demystifying misinformation against COVID-19.

Results

The study showed high levels of misinformation on COVID-19 in the study area [mean score 2.71; standard deviation (SD) 1.5]. The highest levels of misinformation were observed in Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati district, North West province (mean score: 3.84; SD: 2.1) and Sedibeng district, Gauteng province (mean score: 3.56; SD 1.7). Higher levels of misinformation were reported by those aged 18–24 years (mean score: 3.48; SD: 1.8), and men (mean score: 2.73; SD: 1.8). Across the two provinces, we identified geospatial hot and coldspots of misinformation highlighting the need to implement point of care strategies such as targeted messaging. Findings showed the need for targeted interventions to young people, students, those with low levels of education and the self-employed in the two districts more importantly, as South Africa expands its nationwide vaccination roll-out.
Yeasts from Chinese strong flavour Daqu samples: isolation and evaluation of their potential for fortified Daqu production
Authors: Pu Shunchang , Zhang Yu , Lu Ning , Shi Cuie , Yan Shoubao
Published: December 2021

In total, 16 yeast were isolated from Chinese strong flavour Daqu samples and underwent RAPD analysis and identification. Totally, 11 different species were identified among these isolates including Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Hanseniaspora vineae, Pichia kluyveri, Trichosporon asahii, Wickerhamomyces anomalus, Kluyveromyces lactis, Yarrowia lipolytica, Wickerhamomyces mori, Galactomyces geotrichum, Dabaryomyces hansenii, and Saccharomyces kudriavzevii. To understand the impact of these yeast strains on the quality and flavour of Daqu, we then assessed volatile compounds associated with Daqu samples fermented with corresponding strains. These analyses revealed strain YE006 exhibited the most robust ability to produce ethanol via fermentation but yielded relatively low quantities of volatile compounds, whereas strain YE010 exhibited relatively poor fermentation efficiency but produced the greatest quantity of volatile compounds. These two yeast strains were then utilized in a mixed culture to produce fortified Daqu, with the optimal inoculum size being assessed experimentally. These analyses revealed that maximal fermentation, saccharifying, liquefying, and esterifying power as well as high levels of volatile compounds were achieved when using a 2% inoculum composed of YE006/YE010 at a 1:2 (v/v) ratio. When the liquor prepared using this optimized fortified Daqu was compared to unfortified control Daqu, the former was found to exhibit significantly higher levels of flavour compounds and better sensory scores. Overall, our findings may provide a reliable approach to ensuring Daqu quality and improving the consistency and flavour of Chinese strong-flavour liquor through bioaugmentation.
Probiotic effect of Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris RPG-HL-0136 on intestinal mucosal immunity in mice
Authors: Park Byoung Hee , Kim In Sung , Park Jung Kuk , Zhi Zheng , Lee Hea Min , Kwon Oh Wook , Lee Byung Cheon
Published: December 2021

Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris is a lactic acid bacterium commonly used in the cheese manufacturing industry. It is known to produce antibacterial peptides and has recently received attention for its role as a probiotic strain. Here, we report the isolation of a new strain, Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris RPG-HL-0136 (RPG0136) from dried compost, which exhibits strong antibacterial activity. When RPG0136 was fed to mice, it increased the intestinal population of two beneficial bacteria, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, whereas it decreased the intestinal population of two harmful bacteria, Bacteroides and Enterobacter. In addition, it increased the concentration of short-chain fatty acids, including acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid, with a simultaneous decrease in pH, and accelerated the catabolic degradation of proteins, lipids, and starch. Lastly, RPG0136 increased the plasma IgG and intestinal mucosal SIgA concentrations and upregulated Reg3r, MUC1, and MUC2 expression to improve the intestinal mucosal immune function. The results of this study suggest that RPG0136 is a potential probiotic strain that supports the growth of a beneficial microbiome by promoting the synthesis of organic acids and enhancing intestinal immune function.
Case reports of new-onset eating disorders in older adult cancer survivors
Authors: Rakusin Dori , O’Brien Kate , Murphy Michael
Published: December 2021

Background

It is unusual for a de novo eating disorder to emerge in late adulthood. Across a number of years, a number of patients were identified who experienced severe and unexpected weight loss post curative management of an upper abdominal cancer (i.e., cancer survivors). Each of the patients was readmitted to the tertiary surgical hospital due to complications of severe malnutrition. Each presentation was initially considered to have a major physical health problem (such as cancer recurrence). Each required extensive investigations and multidisciplinary team involvement and were later conceptualised as a new-onset (in later adulthood) eating disorder that emerged post curative cancer treatment. The team wished to better understand this group and/or characterise and/or inform the scientific community of this phenomena if not already well described.

Literature review

The review identified that the re-emergence of pre-existing eating disorders at the time of cancer treatment was described; however, there was no identification of similar new-onset in later adulthood cases of eating disorders in cancer survivors in the medical literature.

Review of the cases

Once ethics and consent was obtained, then the clinical course of four complex individuals were reviewed, including the use of a multidisciplinary Delphi review process, to understand commonalities and then plot a common care pathway with potential intervention points.

Case presentations

Common factors identified among the four patients included the lack of a physical health (organic) cause to the weight loss and ongoing weight loss despite intense multidisciplinary care. All had abnormal attitudes and behaviours relating to food, nutritional rehabilitation and/or recovery. None returned to a healthy weight and/or healthy eating despite extensive team input. The presentations were ultimately conceptualised as having severe disordered eating behaviours and in at least three cases met criteria for a formal eating disorder. The cohort had similar psychosocial characteristics including low socioeconomic status and complex family dynamics. None had prior formal psychiatric care. The outcomes were poor; one patient died, another required admission to a specialist eating disorder admission with a subsequent relapsing remitting course, and the remaining two had complicated chronic courses.

Conclusion

Similar cases may be underreported. If identified earlier, there may be a role for intervention to prevent high morbidity and mortality and to support clinical teams managing similar complex patients.
IDH-wild type glioblastomas featuring at least 30% giant cells are characterized by frequent RB1 and NF1 alterations and hypermutation
Authors: Barresi Valeria , Simbolo Michele , Mafficini Andrea , Martini Maurizio , Calicchia Martina , Piredda Maria Liliana , Ciaparrone Chiara , Bonizzato Giada , Ammendola Serena , Caffo Maria , Pinna Giampietro , Sala Francesco , Lawlor Rita Teresa , Ghimenton Claudio , Scarpa Aldo
Published: December 2021

Giant cell glioblastoma (GC-GBM) is a rare variant of IDH-wt GBM histologically characterized by the presence of numerous multinucleated giant cells and molecularly considered a hybrid between IDH-wt and IDH-mutant GBM. The lack of an objective definition, specifying the percentage of giant cells required for this diagnosis, may account for the absence of a definite molecular profile of this variant. This study aimed to clarify the molecular landscape of GC-GBM, exploring the mutations and copy number variations of 458 cancer-related genes, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and microsatellite instability (MSI) in 39 GBMs dichotomized into having 30–49% (15 cases) or ≥ 50% (24 cases) GCs. The type and prevalence of the genetic alterations in this series was not associated with the GCs content (< 50% or ≥ 50%). Most cases (82% and 51.2%) had impairment in TP53/MDM2 and PTEN/PI3K pathways, but a high proportion also featured TERT promoter mutations (61.5%) and RB1 (25.6%) or NF1 (25.6%) alterations. EGFR amplification was detected in 18% cases in association with a shorter overall survival (P = 0.004). Sixteen (41%) cases had a TMB > 10 mut/Mb, including two (5%) that harbored MSI and one with a POLE mutation. The frequency of RB1 and NF1 alterations and TMB counts were significantly higher compared to 567 IDH wild type (P < 0.0001; P = 0.0003; P < 0.0001) and 26 IDH-mutant (P < 0.0001; P = 0.0227; P < 0.0001) GBMs in the TCGA PanCancer Atlas cohort. These findings demonstrate that the molecular landscape of GBMs with at least 30% giant cells is dominated by the impairment of TP53/MDM2 and PTEN/PI3K pathways, and additionally characterized by frequent RB1 alterations and hypermutation and by EGFR amplification in more aggressive cases. The high frequency of hypermutated cases suggests that GC-GBMs might be candidates for immune check-point inhibitors clinical trials.
Wine quality under integrated, organic and biodynamic management using image-forming methods and sensory analysis
Authors: Fritz Jürgen , Döring Johanna , Athmann Miriam , Meissner Georg , Kauer Randolf , Schultz Hans R.
Published: December 2021

Background and aims

The image-forming methods copper chloride crystallization, capillary dynamolysis and circular chromatography are presented as an instrument for assessing wine quality. Wine quality of samples from a long-term field trial comparing integrated, organic and biodynamic management were investigated by using image-forming methods and sensory analysis.

Methods and results

Concerning the image-forming methods copper chloride crystallization, capillary dynamolysis and circular chromatography, the images of encoded samples were (i) grouped into pairs with similar image features; (ii) characterized based on reference images (e. g. high–low resistance to degradation); (iii) ranked (according to the characterization), and (iv) assigned to the different production methods (classified). Wine samples from organic and biodynamic management needed less wine per sample for a similar expression of structural characteristics than wine samples from integrated cultivation. Organic and biodynamic samples also show structures that indicate less degeneration than integrated samples. Due to these properties, nine coded wine samples from 2010 could be (i) grouped, (ii) characterized, (iii) ranked and (iv) classified without errors, i.e., assigned to the cultivation methods of integrated, organic and biodynamic agriculture. In sensory analysis, the wine derived from biodynamic management had the highest aroma intensity. In the other parameters the differences were not significant.

Conclusion

Analysis with the image-forming methods copper chloride crystallization, capillary dynamolysis and circular chromatography complements sensory analysis for a more complete description of the characteristic properties of wines originating from different management systems.

Significance of the study

If further studies confirm these results, the image-forming methods copper chloride crystallization, capillary dynamolysis and circular chromatography may be developed as a complementary tool to sensory and chemical analysis in assessing wine quality.

Graphic abstract
Effects of enriched-potassium diet on cardiorespiratory outcomes in experimental non-ischemic chronic heart failure
Authors: Schwarz Karla G. , Pereyra Katherin V. , Toledo Camilo , Andrade David C. , Díaz Hugo S. , Díaz-Jara Esteban , Ortolani Domiziana , Rios-Gallardo Angélica , Arias Paulina , Las Heras Alexandra , Vera Ignacio , Ortiz Fernando C. , Inestrosa Nibaldo C. , Vio Carlos P. , Del Rio Rodrigo
Published: December 2021

Background

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a global health problem. Increased sympathetic outflow, cardiac arrhythmogenesis and irregular breathing patterns have all been associated with poor outcomes in CHF. Several studies showed that activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) play a key role in CHF pathophysiology. Interestingly, potassium (K+) supplemented diets showed promising results in normalizing RAS axis and autonomic dysfunction in vascular diseases, lowering cardiovascular risk. Whether subtle increases in dietary K+ consumption may exert similar effects in CHF has not been previously tested. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary K+ supplementation on cardiorespiratory alterations in rats with CHF.

Methods

Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats underwent volume overload to induce non-ischemic CHF. Animals were randomly allocated to normal chow diet (CHF group) or supplemented K+ diet (CHF+K+ group) for 6 weeks. Cardiac arrhythmogenesis, sympathetic outflow, baroreflex sensitivity, breathing disorders, chemoreflex function, respiratory–cardiovascular coupling and cardiac function were evaluated.

Results

Compared to normal chow diet, K+ supplemented diet in CHF significantly reduced arrhythmia incidence (67.8 ± 15.1 vs. 31.0 ± 3.7 events/hour, CHF vs. CHF+K+), decreased cardiac sympathetic tone (ΔHR to propranolol: − 97.4 ± 9.4 vs. − 60.8 ± 8.3 bpm, CHF vs. CHF+K+), restored baroreflex function and attenuated irregular breathing patterns. Additionally, supplementation of the diet with K+ restores normal central respiratory chemoreflex drive and abrogates pathological cardio-respiratory coupling in CHF rats being the outcome an improved cardiac function.

Conclusion

Our findings support that dietary K+ supplementation in non-ischemic CHF alleviate cardiorespiratory dysfunction.
Dual effects of entomopathogenic fungi on control of the pest Lobesia botrana and the pathogenic fungus Eutypella microtheca on grapevine
Authors: Aguilera-Sammaritano Juan , Caballero Juan , Deymié María , Rosa Melisa , Vazquez Fabio , Pappano Delia , Lechner Bernardo , González-Teuber Marcia
Published: December 2021

Background

Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are the natural enemies of insect pests. Nevertheless, research on the use of EPF for simultaneous prevention of pest and disease agents on the same crop is limited. In this study, we explored the potential dual effects of three strains of the EPF Metarhizium anisopliae on the control of detrimental agents of Vitis vinifera L., including different developmental stages (larvae, pupae, and adult) of the insect pest Lobesia botrana and the phytopathogenic fungus Eutypella microtheca.

Methods

Laboratory pathogenicity trials were performed to examine the effects of the three M. anisopliae strains on the mortality rate of L. botrana. In addition, field trials were conducted to assess the biocontrol potential of one selected M. anisopliae strain on the larval stage of L. botrana. Moreover, inhibitory effects of the three EPF strains on E. microtheca growth were examined in vitro.

Results

All the M. anisopliae strains were highly effective, killing all stages of L. botrana as well as inhibiting the growth of E. microtheca. The in vitro mortality of larvae treated with the strains was over 75%, whereas that of treated pupae and adults was over 85%. The three EPF strains showed similar efficacy against larvae and adult stages; nevertheless, pupal mortality was observed to be strain dependent. Mortality of L. botrana larvae ranged from 64 to 91% at field conditions. Inhibition of E. microtheca growth reached 50% in comparison to the control.

Conclusions

Our study showed that M. anisopliae strains were highly effective in ensuring control of two different detrimental agents of V. vinifera L., providing new evidence to support the dual effects of entomopathogenic fungi.
An industrial case study: QbD to accelerate time-to-market of a drug product
Authors: Testas Madalena , da Cunha Sais Tiago , Medinilha Leonardo Piccoli , Niwa Katia Nami Ito , de Carvalho Lucas Sponton , Maia Silvia Duarte , Flores Anderson , Braz Lígia Pedroso , Menezes José Cardoso , Yamakawa Cássio Yooiti
Published: December 2021

The use of a Quality by Design (QbD) approach in the development of pharmaceutical products is known to bring many advantages to the table, such as increased product and process knowledge, robust manufacturing processes, and regulatory flexibility regarding changes during the commercial phase. However, many companies still adhere to a more traditional pharmaceutical process development—in some cases due to the difficulty of going from a theoretical view of QbD to its actual application. This article presents a real-world case study for the development of an industrial pharmaceutical drug product (oral solid dosage form) using the QbD methodology, demonstrating the activities involved and the gains in obtaining systematic process and product knowledge.
Value of Somatostatin Receptor PET/CT in Patients With MEN1 at Various Stages of Their Disease
Authors: Mennetrey Clément , Le Bras Maëlle , Bando-Delaunay Aurélie , Al-Mansour Laure , Haissaguerre Magalie , Batisse-Lignier Marie , Ouvrard Eric , Ansquer Catherine , Walter Thomas , de Mestier Louis , Kelly Antony , Tlili Ghoufrane , Giraud Sophie , North Marie-Odile , Odou Marie-Françoise , Goichot Bernard , Cuny Thomas , Loundou Anderson , Romanet Pauline , Imperiale Alessio , Taïeb David
Published: December 2021

Context

Despite the growing evidence of the clinical value of somatostatin receptor (SSTR) positron emission tomography (PET) in the evaluation of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), its role remains to be clarified at different time points in the journey of patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). The rarity of the disease is however a significant impediment to prospective clinical trials.

Objective

The goals of the study were to assess the indications and value of SSTR PET/computed tomography (CT) in patients with MEN1.

Methods

We retrospectively included patients from 7 French expert centers for whom data on SSTR PET/CT and morphological imaging performed at the same period were available. Detection rates of PET study were analyzed.

Results

One hundred and 8 patients were included. SSTR PET/CT was performed at screening (n = 33), staging (n = 34), restaging (n = 37), and for peptide receptor targeted radiotherapy selection (n = 4). PET detected positive pancreatic lesions in 91% of cases at screening, with results comparable with magnetic resonance imaging but superior to CT (P = .049). Metastases (mostly lymph node [LN]) were present at the screening phase in 28% of cases, possibly due to the suboptimal value of screening morphological imaging in the assessment of nodal metastases and/or a long delay between imaging studies. SSTR PET/CT was considered superior or complementary to the reference standard in the assessment of LN or distant metastases in the vast majority of cases and regardless of the clinical scenario.

Conclusion

This study shows the potential added value of SSTR PET in the assessment of MEN1-associated NETs and provides great impetus toward its implementation in the evaluation of patients with MEN1.
Clinical Value of Serum Levels of 11-Oxygenated Metabolites of Testosterone in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Tosi Flavia , Villani Michela , Garofalo Sabrina , Faccin Giulia , Bonora Enzo , Fiers Tom , Kaufman Jean-Marc , Moghetti Paolo
Published: December 2021

Context

Recent data suggested that 11-oxygenated androgens may be the preponderant circulating androgens in women with PCOS. However, the pathophysiological significance of these hormones remains unclear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationships between serum 11-OH testosterone (11-OHT) and 11-keto testosterone (11-KetoT) and clinical and biochemical hyperandrogenism, as well as the metabolic parameters, in women with PCOS.

Methods

The main classic and 11-oxygenated androgens were measured by LC-MS/MS and direct equilibrium dialysis in 123 women with PCOS, diagnosed according to the Rotterdam criteria, and 38 healthy controls. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp.

Results

Serum 11-oxygenated androgens were higher in women with PCOS than in controls. Elevated levels of 11-OHT and 11-KetoT were found in 28.5% and 30.1% of PCOS women, respectively, whereas free testosterone (FT) was increased in 61.0% of them. Serum 11-oxygenated androgens showed a limited performance in recognizing women with classically defined hyperandrogenism. Unlike FT, 11-oxygenated androgens did not show significant relationships with anthropometric and metabolic parameters, except for a direct association with insulin sensitivity. In multivariable analysis, 11-OHT and 11-KetoT, directly, and FT, inversely, remained significant independent predictors of insulin sensitivity.

Conclusions

Serum levels of 11-oxygenated androgens are higher in women with PCOS than in controls. However, these hormones show a poor performance in recognizing women with hyperandrogenism, as currently defined. The relationships of these androgens with insulin sensitivity strongly differ from that of FT, suggesting a different role of classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in the pathophysiology of PCOS.
Prevalence of Pre Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among cement industry workers
Authors: Meo Sultan Ayoub , Muneif Yasser Abdullah Bin , Ben Nasser Abdullah , AlSadhan Mohammad Abdullah , Hashem Raed Fuad , Alobaisi Abdullah Saud
Published: December 2021

Objectives: Occupational and environmental pollution have become an imperative jeopardy for developing devastating metabolic diseases. Limited animal model studies have examined the impact of exposure to cement dust on metabolic conditions. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of pre-diabetes and Type-2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) among non-smoking cement mill workers.

Methods: This epidemiological cross sectional study was conducted in the “Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia” during the period Oct 2016 to June 2017. Initially 310 cement mill workers were interviewed; after the interview and clinical history taking, 186 non-smoking cement mill employees were finally recruited. The cement mill employees were exposed to cement dust-related pollution in a cement industry for eight hours a day for six days a week. The mean age was 36.56 ± 0.78 years, mean BMI was 25.70 ± 0.29 m/kg2, and mean period of employment in the cement industry was 82.77 ± 6.95 months. HbA1c was measured using the Dimension Xpand Plus Integrated Chemistry System (USA).

Results: The cement mill employees were divided into three groups: non-diabetics group, with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <5.7%; pre-diabetics group, with HbA1c 5.7-6.4%; and diabetics group, with HbA1c >6.4%. Among the cement mill personnel, 79 (42.47%) were non-diabetics, 28 (15.05%) were pre-diabetics, and 79 (42.47%) were diabetics. The prevalence of pre-diabetes and T2DM among cement mill employees was considerably associated with the period of employment in the cement industry (p=0.032).

Conclusions: Exposure to cement dust was associated with an increased prevalence of pre- diabetes and T2DM among cement industry employees.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.1266

How to cite this:Meo SA, Bin-Muneif YA, BenOmran NA, AlSadhan MA, Hashem RF, Alobaisi AS. Prevalence of Pre Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among cement industry workers. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(2):32-36. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.1266

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The effects of maternal preeclampsia on inflammatory cytokines and clinical outcomes in premature infants
Authors: Cakir Salih Cagri , Dorum Bayram Ali , Koksal Nilgun , Ozkan Hilal
Published: December 2021

Objective: To investigate the effects of maternal preeclampsia on inflammatory cytokines and neonatal outcomes in premature infants.

Methods: The study included preterm infants born at gestational age ≤32 weeks in a tertiary university hospital between January 2016 and January 2017. The study group consisted of infants born from mothers with preeclampsia (Group-1), and the control group consisted of infants born from normotensive mothers (Group-2). Demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes of the infants were recorded. IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α cytokine levels were measured from umbilical cord blood samples.

Results: A total of 108 infants were included in the study, of which 34 were in the Group-1 and 74 in the Group-2. Gestational ages (29 vs 30 weeks) of the infants in both groups were similar. There was no significant difference between the cytokine levels of infants with and without preeclampsia. The rate of small for gestational age, retinopathy of prematurity, intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia were significantly higher at the infants with preeclampsia.

Conclusion: Maternal preeclampsia leads to an increase at the neonatal morbidities in premature infants without causing a significant alteration at the cytokine levels in cord blood.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.1316

How to cite this:Cakir SC, Dorum BA, Koksal N, Ozkan H. The effects of maternal preeclampsia on inflammatory cytokines and clinical outcomes in premature infants. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(2):26-31. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.2.1316

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Grant writing and grant peer review as questionable research practices
Authors: Conix Stijn , De Block Andreas , Vaesen Krist
Published: December 2021

A large part of governmental research funding is currently distributed through the peer review of project proposals. In this paper, we argue that such funding systems incentivize and even force researchers to violate five moral values, each of which is central to commonly used scientific codes of conduct. Our argument complements existing epistemic arguments against peer-review project funding systems and, accordingly, strengthens the mounting calls for reform of these systems.
Physical effects of consciousness: the law of reproducibility
Authors: Bingi Vladimir
Published: December 2021

Are there really parapsychological phenomena? What forms do they take, how are they related to the well-known problem of mind and body, and to what extent is their scientific study possible? How do these questions relate to fundamental philosophical and natural-scientific principles and modern scientific data? What is the boundary between scientific and unscientific, and is it possible, without violating scientific principles, to "look" into the area where science is losing its power?
It will be useful to anyone who is interested in such issues; it assumes a preliminary acquaintance of the reader with physics and philosophy in the scope of university courses.
Resistance of materials. Laboratory works. 4th edition
Authors: Evtushenko Sergej , Logvinov Viktor
Published: December 2021

Data on laboratory works on resistance of materials are provided, the assessment of errors of results of measurements and experiments is given, statistical processing of experimental data is in detail stated. The book contains information on nondestructive methods and control devices of characteristics and diagnostics of materials and designs. In a grant the International system of units (SI) (tab. 1 of the Appendix) is used, designations of sizes are accepted according to the international recommendations of ISO. Data on physicomechanical characteristics of steel, cast iron, non-ferrous metals, wood and polymers and the allowed tension for them are provided in tab. 2-8 of the Appendix. The grant is intended for the students studying courses of resistance of materials, mechanics of materials and designs, applied mechanics, construction mechanics and construction designs.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the dog
Authors: Lhermette Philip
Published: December 2021

Cholecystectomy is a procedure used to rectify severe gall bladder disease that is not amenable to medical management. It is most commonly performed in dogs with gall bladder mucocoele, a condition affecting mainly small breeds such as the Border Terrier, Cocker Spaniel and Shetland Sheepdog. Traditionally, this has been done by open laparotomy but, in the human field, where cholecystectomy is a common and routine procedure, laparoscopic cholecystectomy has almost completely superseded open laparotomy, as it has been shown to be safer and have lower rates of morbidity. This article describes a technique for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the dog as a suitable alternative to open laparotomy.
An exploration of hydration care for nursing home residents living with dementia
Authors: Greene Carolynn , Wilson Jennie , Tingle Alison , Loveday Heather
Published: December 2021

Background/aims

Older adults residing in nursing homes are vulnerable to dehydration. Residents living with dementia can experience additional challenges, making it difficult to independently consume sufficient fluids. The aim of this study was to describe the experience of hydration care for nursing home residents living with dementia.

Methods

Observations of hydration care were conducted between 06:00 and 22:45 on one care home unit. Twenty-two residents with dementia were eligible for observation. Conversations with staff and relatives provided further insights. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Hydration care provision was highly routinised with little flexibility. Residents received limited support to express individual choices, and staff missed opportunities to provide drinks. More fluid was consumed when care staff developed strategies to encourage fluid intake.

Conclusions

Key factors to optimise hydration care include providing individual support to encourage fluid intake and expression of choice, flexible care routines, and focus on communication and teamworking.
The algebra generated by nilpotent elements in a matrix centralizer
Authors: De la Cruz Ralph John , Misa Eloise
Published: December 2021

For an arbitrary square matrix $S$, denote by $C(S)$ the centralizer of $S$, and by $C(S)_N$ the set of all nilpotent elements in $C(S)$. In this paper, we use the Weyr canonical form to study the subalgebra of $C(S)$ generated by $C(S)_N$. We determine conditions on $S$ such that $C(S)_N$ is a subalgebra of $C(S)$. We also determine conditions on $S$ such that the subalgebra generated by $C(S)_N$ is $C(S).$
Population and Nesting Behaviour of Weaver Ants, Oecophylla smaragdina from Meghalaya, India
Authors: Sangma Jonata Savio A , Prasad Surya Bali
Published: December 2021

Weaver ants are known for their unique nest-building skills using leaves and larval-silk as a binding agent. The weaver ants, Oecophylla smaragdina are present in large numbers in the Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya. Ri-Bhoi district is a hot and humid place with  22 -30°C. This is the first study from this region to examine the nesting behavior along with the population of these ants from here.  It was noted that they build nests in different types of trees but it is more abundant in needlewood trees (Schima wallichi) locally known as ‘diengngan.’ From the central trunk of the S. wallichi tree, the nearest distance of the nest is about 0.7 m and the farthest up to 3.4 m. The nests of O. smaragdina are somewhat round-oval and use leaves of different sizes ranging from 8-32 cm2. The nests are made at a height ranging from 4-25 m and their average nest size is about 9,483 cm3. They utilize about twenty leaves with a specific number of chambers to keep their broods, the queen, and food. The number of worker ants, pupae, and larvae are variable in different nests because of nest size, location/height of the nests, and the trees.  When the nest population increases, they locate a new spot and build a satellite nest where they get the right amount of sunlight and shelter from predators and adverse environmental factors. These weaver ants are also used as medicine, food and fish bait by the indigenous people in Meghalaya.
Experimental investigation of linear and third-order nonlinear optical properties of pure CuO thin film using femtosecond laser pulses
Authors: Ashour Mohamed , Abdel-Wahab M. Sh. , Shehata Abdullah , Tawfik Wael Z. , Azooz M. A. , Elfeky Souad A. , Mohamed Tarek
Published: December 2021

This paper experimentally investigated the linear and third-order optical nonlinearities of a pure CuO thin film deposited on a soda-lime glass substrate. A single-phase film with 62 nm thickness was prepared using the direct current (DC) sputtering deposition process, the film structure was measured using x-ray diffraction (XRD) and a surface profilometer, while the film’s linear optical properties were measured using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The Z-scan technique was used to measure the nonlinear optical properties of a film that had been irradiated with 100 fs laser pulses using different excitation wavelengths at different incident laser powers. The results showed that increasing the excitation wavelength from 740 nm to 840 nm reduces the nonlinear absorption coefficient of the film from

−

3.5

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6

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, and the nonlinear refractive index

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decreases from

−

4.98

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18

to

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1.2

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. The optical limiting of the CuO thin film was studied and found to be excitation wavelength dependent with limiting at high incident power.
Voxel characteristic estimation of integral imaging display system using self-interference incoherent digital holography
Authors: Kim Youngrok , Park Sungwoong , Baek Hogil , Min Sung-wook
Published: December 2021

Three-dimensional (3D) images reconstructed by integral imaging display are captured as a complex hologram using self-interference incoherent digital holography (SIDH) and analyzed for the volumetric image characteristics. The integrated images can present 3D perception through not only binocular disparity but also volumetric property, which is represented in forming a volume picture element, called ‘voxel’, and an important criterion to distinguish the integral imaging from the multiview 3D display. Since SIDH can record the complex hologram under incoherent lighting conditions, the SIDH camera system has the advantage to measure the voxel formed with the incoherent light fields. In this paper, we propose a technique to estimate and analyze the voxel characteristics of the integral imaging system such as the depth location and resolution. The captured holograms of the integrated images are numerically reconstructed by depth for the voxel analysis. The depth location of the integrated image can be calculated and obtained using the autofocus algorithms and the focus metrics values, which also show the modalities of depth resolution. The estimation method of this paper can be applied to the accurate and quantitative analysis of the volumetric characteristics of light field 3D displays.