bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerated complete human skin architecture restoration after wounding by nanogenerator-driven electrostimulation
Authors: Liu Aiping , Long Yin , Li Jun , Gu Long , Karim Aos , Wang Xudong , Gibson Angela L. F.
Published: September 2021

Background

Electrostimulation (ES) therapy for wound healing is limited in clinical use due to barriers such as cumbersome equipment and intermittent delivery of therapy.

Methods

We adapted a human skin xenograft model that can be used to directly examine the nanogenerator-driven ES (NG-ES) effects on human skin in vivo—an essential translational step toward clinical application of the NG-ES technique for wound healing.

Results

We show that NG-ES leads to rapid wound closure with complete restoration of normal skin architecture within 7 days compared to more than 30 days in the literature. NG-ES accelerates the inflammatory phase of wound healing with more rapid resolution of neutrophils and macrophages and enhances wound bed perfusion with more robust neovascularization.

Conclusion

Our results support the translational evaluation and optimization of the NG-ES technology to deliver convenient, efficient wound healing therapy for use in human wounds.

Graphic abstract
CYT387, a potent IKBKE inhibitor, suppresses human glioblastoma progression by activating the Hippo pathway
Authors: Wang Xin , Lu Jie , Li Jing , Liu Yang , Guo Gaochao , Huang Qiang
Published: September 2021

Recent studies have showed that IKBKE is overexpressed in several kinds of cancers and that IKBKE-knockdown inhibits tumor progression. In this article, we first verified that two glioblastoma cell lines, U87-MG and LN-229, were sensitive to CYT387 by measuring the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) with a CCK-8 assay and then demonstrated that CYT387, as a potent IKBKE inhibitor, suppressed glioblastoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Additionally, CYT387 induced cell apoptosis and arrested the cell cycle at the G2/M checkpoint in vitro. Furthermore, we showed that CYT387 did not simply inhibit IKBKE activity but also decreased IKBKE expression at the protein level rather than at the mRNA level. We discovered that CYT387 restrained malignant tumor progression by activating the Hippo pathway in vitro. By coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP), we showed that IKBKE interacted with TEAD2 and YAP1, thus accelerating TEAD2 and YAP1 transport into the nucleus. In subsequent in vivo experiments, we found that CYT387 inhibited subcutaneous nude mouse tumor growth but had little impact on intracranial orthotopic xenografts, probably due to a limited ability to penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB). These results suggest that CYT387 has potential as a new antiglioblastoma drug, but an approach to allow passage through the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is needed.
Detection of chikungunya virus in the Southern region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hakami Abdulrahim R. , Alshamrani Abdullah A. , Alqahtani Mohamad , Alraey Yasser , Alhefzi Razan A. , Alasmari Sultan , Makkawi Mohamed , Dobie Gasim , Mir Mushtaq , Alshahrani Mohamed , Dera Ayed , Alfaifi Mohammed , Al Shahrani Mesfer , Matari Ahmad , Asiry Ali Essa
Published: September 2021

Background and aim

Despite the fact that the chikungunya viral infection is a neglected disease, complications such as hemorrhagic fever, arthritis, and lymphopenia remain a health concern. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of the chikungunya virus in the Southern Region, Saudi Arabia. Enzyme immunoassay and polymerase chain reaction have been compared between samples.

Materials and methods

Forty samples from two southern hospitals in Saudi Arabia were collected between December 2019 and February 2020 and screened for chikungunya virus IgG antibodies and for viral RNA. Selection criteria were based on hematological parameters and rheumatological profiles such as rheumatoid factor, c-reactive protein, anti-nuclear antibody, and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) of out-patients.

Results

One confirmed case of chikungunya virus was detected using the ELISA test. However, no viral RNA was detected in any of the samples. This suggests that the virus is cleared rapidly in patients.

Conclusion

Chikungunya is a neglected viral disease in Saudi Arabia. Future work should focus on detailed investigation of this viral infection and its vectors.
Effectiveness of a smartphone-based educational intervention to improve breastfeeding
Authors: Seyyedi Navisa , Rahmatnezhad Leili , Mesgarzadeh Maryam , Khalkhali Hamidreza , Seyyedi Negisa , Rahimi Bahlol
Published: September 2021

Background

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is essential during the first six months of life and confers countless benefits to mothers and infants. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a smartphone-based educational intervention to improve new mothers’ breastfeeding for infants younger than six months of age in Urmia, Iran.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial study was conducted from January to December 2019 with 40 new mothers and their first child aged < 3 months, assigned to the intervention (mobile app education + routine care) and control groups (routine care). The mean age of infants was 1.25 and 0.98 months for each group consequently. The designed app content categorized according to seven sections (the importance of breastfeeding, behavioral methods, complementary feeding and EBF, pumping and manual expression, managing common breast-related and breastfeeding problems, breastfeeding tips in special situations, and common queries) for educating the required knowledge to nursing mothers.

Results

Forty mothers were assessed for primary outcomes in each group. At three months, the mothers’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) had meaningful differences in the intervention group compared to the control group. In the intervention group, the degree of changes in knowledge and attitude were 5.67 ± 0.94 and 8.75 ± 1.37 respectively more than the control group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). However, this amount for the practice score was 0.8 ± 0.49 which is considered to be marginally significant (p = 0.063). During the study, the mothers’ breastfeeding self-efficacy showed significant progress in favor of the intervention group. The score enhancement was 26.85 ± 7.13 for the intervention group and only 0.40 ± 5.17 for the control group that was confirmed to be significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The smartphone-based app for educating new mothers on breastfeeding had a significantly positive effect on breastfeeding self-efficacy and maternal KAP. In future studies, the intervention can be tested in both prenatal and postpartum periods.
Phenotype, genotype and long-term prognosis of 40 Chinese patients with isobutyryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency and a review of variant spectra in ACAD8
Authors: Feng Junqi , Yang Chenxi , Zhu Ling , Zhang Yuchen , Zhao Xiaoxu , Chen Chi , Chen Qi-xing , Shu Qiang , Jiang Pingping , Tong Fan
Published: September 2021

Background

Isobutyryl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (IBDD) is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder resulting from variants in ACAD8, and is poorly understood, as only dozens of cases have been reported previously. Based on a newborn screening program, we evaluated the incidence, phenotype and genotype of IBDD as well as the prognosis. Moreover, we reviewed the variant spectrum in ACAD8 associated with IBDD.

Methods

Forty unrelated patients with IBDD were retrospectively screened for newborns between Jan 2012 and Dec 2020. Tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) was used to determine the concentrations of C4-acylcarnitine, C4/C2 (acetylcarnitine), and C4/C3 (propionylcarnitine). All suspected cases were genetically tested by metabolic genes panel.

Results

The incidence of IBDD here was 1: 62,599. All patients presented continuously elevated C4-acylcarnitine levels with higher ratios of C4/C2 and C4/C3. Isobutyrylglycine occurred in only 8 patients. During follow-up, four patients had a transient motor delay, and two patients had growth delay. Notably, one case harbored both ACAD8 compound heterozygous variants and a KMT2A de novo variant (c.2739del, p.E914Rfs*35), with IBDD and Wiedemann–Steiner syndrome together, had exact severe global developmental delay. All patients were regularly monitored once they were diagnosed, and each patient gradually had a normal diet after 6 months of age. After 3–108 months of follow-up, most individuals were healthy except the case harboring the KMT2A variant. A total of 16 novel variants in ACAD8, c.4_5delCT, c.109C > T, c.110–2A > T, c.236G > A, c.259G > A, c.381–14G > A, c.413delA, c.473A > G, c.500delG, c.758 T > G, c.842–1G > A, c.911A > T, c.989G > A, c.1150G > C, c.1157A > G and c.1165C > T, were identified. Along with a literature review on 51 ACAD8 variants in 81 IBDD patients, we found that the most common variant was c.286G > A (27.2%), which has been observed solely in the Chinese population to date, followed by c.1000C > T (8.6%), c.1176G > T (3.7%) and c.455 T > C (3.1%).

Conclusion

The concentration of C4-acylcarnitine in NBS plus subsequent genetic testing is necessary for IBDD diagnosis. Both the genotypes and ACAD8 variants in IBDD are highly heterogeneous, and no significant correlations between genotype and phenotype are present here in patients with IBDD. Our IBDD cohort with detaied clinical characteristics, genotypes and long-term prognosis will be helpful for the diagnosis and management of patients with IBDD in the future.
Outcomes of pregnancies with trisomy 16 mosaicism detected by NIPT: a series of case reports
Authors: Peng Haishan , Yang Jiexia , Wang Dongmei , Guo Fangfang , Hou Yaping , Yin Aihua
Published: September 2021

Background

Trisomy 16 (T16) is thought to be the most frequent chromosome abnormality at conception, which is often associated with a high risk of abnormal outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 14 cases with high risk of T16 by noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) was conducted. All cases in the analysis involved prenatal diagnosis, karyotyping and chromosomal microarray analysis.

Case reports

NIPT detected 12 cases of T16 and 2 cases of T16 mosaicism. Prenatal diagnosis confirmed 5 true positive cases and 9 false positive cases. Among the 5 true positive cases, 3 cases had ultrasound abnormalities. All of the 9 false positive cases continued their pregnancies. The newborns who were from these 9 false positive cases except 1 case (case 7) had low birth weights (< 2.5 kg) and there were also 2 premature deliveries.

Conclusion

NIPT serves as a fast and early prenatal screening method, giving clues to chromosome abnormalities and providing guidance for managing pregnancy. Confined placental mosaicism in 16 pregnancies may be at higher risk for preterm delivery.
Side-by-side comparison of the effects of Gq- and Gi-DREADD-mediated astrocyte modulation on intracellular calcium dynamics and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampal CA1
Authors: Van Den Herrewegen Yana , Sanderson Thomas M. , Sahu Surajit , De Bundel Dimitri , Bortolotto Zuner A. , Smolders Ilse
Published: September 2021

Astrocytes express a plethora of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are crucial for shaping synaptic activity. Upon GPCR activation, astrocytes can respond with transient variations in intracellular Ca2+. In addition, Ca2+-dependent and/or Ca2+-independent release of gliotransmitters can occur, allowing them to engage in bidirectional neuron-astrocyte communication. The development of designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) has facilitated many new discoveries on the roles of astrocytes in both physiological and pathological conditions. They are an excellent tool, as they can target endogenous GPCR-mediated intracellular signal transduction pathways specifically in astrocytes. With increasing interest and accumulating research on this topic, several discrepancies on astrocytic Ca2+ signalling and astrocyte-mediated effects on synaptic plasticity have emerged, preventing a clear-cut consensus about the downstream effects of DREADDs in astrocytes. In the present study, we performed a side-by-side evaluation of the effects of bath application of the DREADD agonist, clozapine-N-oxide (10 µM), on Gq- and Gi-DREADD activation in mouse CA1 hippocampal astrocytes. In doing so, we aimed to avoid confounding factors, such as differences in experimental procedures, and to directly compare the actions of both DREADDs on astrocytic intracellular Ca2+ dynamics and synaptic plasticity in acute hippocampal slices. We used an adeno-associated viral vector approach to transduce dorsal hippocampi of male, 8-week-old C57BL6/J mice, to drive expression of either the Gq-DREADD or Gi-DREADD in CA1 astrocytes. A viral vector lacking the DREADD construct was used to generate controls. Here, we show that agonism of Gq-DREADDs, but not Gi-DREADDs, induced consistent increases in spontaneous astrocytic Ca2+ events. Moreover, we demonstrate that both Gq-DREADD as well as Gi-DREADD-mediated activation of CA1 astrocytes induces long-lasting synaptic potentiation in the hippocampal CA1 Schaffer collateral pathway in the absence of a high frequency stimulus. Moreover, we report for the first time that astrocytic Gi-DREADD activation is sufficient to elicit de novo potentiation. Our data demonstrate that activation of either Gq or Gi pathways drives synaptic potentiation through Ca2+-dependent and Ca2+-independent mechanisms, respectively.
Acceptability and feasibility of strategies to promote healthy dietary choices in UK secondary school canteens: a qualitative study
Authors: Murphy Marie , Mensah Daniel , Mylona Elena , Oyebode Oyinlola
Published: September 2021

Objective

To explore the acceptability and feasibility of choice architecture strategies for dietary change in UK secondary school canteens from the perspectives of pupils, school staff and catering providers through qualitative focus groups and interviews.

Results

Three focus groups with adolescents (n = 15; mean age 13.7 years; standard deviation 1.9) and eight interviews with school staff and caterers recruited from one school and catering provider in Coventry UK were undertaken. The most acceptable choice architecture strategies for intervening to drive healthy dietary choices are those that make use of proximity and positioning, on the basis that convenience was one of the main drivers for food/drink selections. Acknowledging adolescents’ desire for autonomy and for food to be familiar and predictable was considered important in enhancing acceptability. Challenges to the feasibility of nudge strategies included concerns about behavioural issues, increased food waste, and a decline in uptake of canteen purchases. The design of food choice architecture interventions for secondary school settings should consider the specific characteristics of this age group and setting to ensure successful implementation.
Analysis of the regional difference in the number of multi-drug prescriptions and its predictors in Japan, 2015–2018
Authors: Okui Tasuku , Park Jinsang
Published: September 2021

Objective

Polypharmacy and multi-drug prescription are major public health problems in Japan, but only a few studies have investigated the regional differences. By revealing regional differences in the multi-drug prescriptions, we can infer regions with high rates of multimorbidity or inappropriate prescribing. This study revealed regional differences in multi-drug prescriptions (the number of simultaneous prescriptions of seven or more internal medicines) and investigated the factors affecting the difference using the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan data.

Results

The standardized claim ratio (SCR) of the number of multi-drug prescriptions, which corrected the difference in sex and age distribution of prefectures, varied depending on prefectures. A panel data analysis investigating the association between the SCR and explanatory variables (Medical institutions, socioeconomic factors, and physical characteristics of people in prefectures) revealed that the number of public assistance recipients per 1,000 persons was positively and significantly associated with the SCR (Standardized partial regression coefficient = 0.244, p-value = 0.038). In conclusion, regional differences in the number of the multi-drug prescriptions were revealed in Japan, suggesting that public assistance recipients tend to experience multi-drug prescriptions.
Phylogenetically diverse bacteria isolated from tattoo inks, an azo dye-rich environment, decolorize a wide range of azo dyes
Authors: Nho Seong Won , Cui Xuewen , Kweon Ohgew , Jin Jinshan , Chen Huizhong , Moon Mi Sun , Kim Seong-Jae , Cerniglia Carl E.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

There has been an interest in the microbial azo dye degradation as an optional method for the treatment of azo dye-containing wastes. Tattoo ink is an extremely unique azo dye-rich environment, which have never been explored in terms of microorganisms capable of degrading azo dyes. Previously, we isolated 81 phylogenetically diverse bacteria, belonging to 18 genera and 52 species, contaminated in tattoo inks. In this study, we investigated if these bacteria, which can survive in the azo dye-rich environment, have an ability to degrade azo dyes.

Methods

We conducted a two-step azo dye degradation (or decolorization) assay. In step 1, a high-throughput degradability assay was done for 79 bacterial isolates using Methyl Red and Orange II. In step 2, a further degradation assay was done for 10 selected bacteria with a representative of 11 azo dyes, including 3 commercial tattoo ink azo dyes. Degradation of azo dyes were calculated from measuring optical absorbance of soluble dyes at specific wavelengths.

Results

The initial high-throughput azo dye assay (step 1) showed that 79 isolates had a complete or partial degradation of azo dyes; > 90% of Methyl Red and Orange II were degraded within 24 h, by 74 and 20 isolates, respectively. A further evaluation of azo dye degradability for 10 selected isolates in step 2 showed that the isolates, belonging to Bacillus, Brevibacillus, Paenibacillus, and Pseudomonas, exhibited an excellent decolorization ability for a wide range of azo dyes.

Conclusions

This study showed that phylogenetically diverse bacteria, isolated from azo dye-rich tattoo inks, is able to degrade a diverse range of azo dyes, including 3 azo dyes used in commercial tattoo inks. Some of the strains would be good candidates for future studies to provide a systematic understanding of azo dye degradation mechanisms.
Study on the diversity of epiphytic bacteria on corn and alfalfa using Illumina MiSeq/NovaSeq high-throughput sequencing system
Authors: Wu Meixiao , Wang Yuehua , Wang Yijing , Wang Xuefei , Yu Ming , Liu Guixia , Tang Hui
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To investigate the diversity of the epiphytic bacteria on corn (Zea mays) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa) collected in Hengshui City and Xingtai City, Hebei Province, China, and explore crops suitable for natural silage.

Methods

The Illumina MiSeq/NovaSeq high-throughput sequencing system was used to conduct paired-end sequencing of the community DNA fragments from the surface of corn and alfalfa collected in Hengshui and Xingtai. QIIME2 and R software were used to sort and calculate the number of sequences and taxonomic units for each sample. Thereafter, the alpha and beta diversity indices at of species level were calculated, and the abundance and distribution of taxa were analyzed and compared between samples.

Result

At phylum level, the dominant groups were Proteobacteria (70%), Firmicutes (13%), Actinobacteria (9%), and Bacteroidetes (7%). Meanwhile, the dominant genera were Pseudomonas (8%), Acinetobacter (4%), Chryseobacterium (3%), and Hymenobacter (1%). Enterobacteriaceae (24%) were the most predominant bacteria in both the corn and alfalfa samples. Alpha diversity analysis and beta diversity indices revealed that the diversity of epiphytic microbial communities was significantly affected by plant species but not by region. The diversity and richness of the epiphytic bacterial community of alfalfa were significantly higher than those of corn.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the expanding knowledge on the diversity of epiphytic bacteria in corn and alfalfa silage and provides a basis for the selection of raw materials.
Sorafenib-related generalized eruptive keratoacanthomas (Grzybowski syndrome): a case report
Authors: Abbas M. Nazim , Tan Wei Son , Kichenadasse Ganessan
Published: September 2021

Background

Sorafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor that targets Raf serine/threonine receptor tyrosine kinases and inhibits tumor cell growth and angiogenesis. Cutaneous toxicities of sorafenib are common, including cutaneous eruptions (such as truncal erythema and seborrheic-dermatitis-like changes) and hand–foot syndrome. Keratoacanthomas and squamous cell carcinomas have been reported previously; however, we report a case of multiple eruptive keratoacanthomas in the form of Grzybowski syndrome after initiation of sorafenib.

Case presentation

We report a 63-year-old Caucasian male who developed multiple cutaneous eruptive keratoacanthomas after starting sorafenib 400 mg twice daily. He had a known history of hepatitis-C-related cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, and previously had actinic keratosis and skin squamous cell carcinoma excision. Approximately two and a half months after starting sorafenib, the patient initially developed two lesions, one on each forearm, and after excision, these lesions demonstrated histological features of squamous cell carcinoma. One month later, the patient presented with approximately 48 new skin lesions of varying size on the back, bilateral upper limbs, and face requiring excisional biopsy of a large number of these lesions. Histopathology showed eruptive invasive keratoacanthomas (Grzybowski syndrome). Sorafenib was temporarily stopped and subsequently restarted at a lower dose. Acitretin 25 mg daily was commenced after few weeks, and no further keratoacanthomas developed during his treatment.

Conclusions

We report a unique case of sorafenib-associated Grzybowski syndrome. Temporary interruption and dose reduction of sorafenib and use of acitretin appeared to prevent further development of keratoacanthomas.
Investigation of pharmacological mechanism of natural product using pathway fingerprints similarity based on “drug-target-pathway” heterogenous network
Authors: Guo Feifei , Jiang Chunhong , Xi Yujie , Wang Dan , Zhang Yi , Xie Ning , Guan Yi , Zhang Fangbo , Yang Hongjun
Published: September 2021

Natural products from traditional medicine inherit bioactivity from their source herbs. However, the pharmacological mechanism of natural products is often unclear and studied insufficiently. Pathway fingerprint similarity based on “drug-target-pathway” heterogeneous network provides new insight into Mechanism of Action (MoA) for natural products compared with reference drugs, which are selected approved drugs with similar bioactivity. Natural products with similar pathway fingerprints may have similar MoA to approved drugs. In our study, XYPI, an andrographolide derivative, had similar anti-inflammatory activity to Glucocorticoids (GCs) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and GCs and NSAIDs have completely different MoA. Based on similarity evaluation, XYPI has similar pathway fingerprints as NSAIDs, but has similar target profile with GCs. The expression pattern of genes in LPS-activated macrophages after XYPI treatment is similar to that after NSAID but not GC treatment, and this experimental result is consistent with the computational prediction based on pathway fingerprints. These results imply that the pathway fingerprints of drugs have potential for drug similarity evaluation. This study used XYPI as an example to propose a new approach for investigating the pharmacological mechanism of natural products using pathway fingerprint similarity based on a “drug-target-pathway” heterogeneous network.
Using informative features in machine learning based method for COVID-19 drug repurposing
Authors: Aghdam Rosa , Habibi Mahnaz , Taheri Golnaz
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by a novel virus named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). This virus induced a large number of deaths and millions of confirmed cases worldwide, creating a serious danger to public health. However, there are no specific therapies or drugs available for COVID-19 treatment. While new drug discovery is a long process, repurposing available drugs for COVID-19 can help recognize treatments with known clinical profiles. Computational drug repurposing methods can reduce the cost, time, and risk of drug toxicity. In this work, we build a graph as a COVID-19 related biological network. This network is related to virus targets or their associated biological processes. We select essential proteins in the constructed biological network that lead to a major disruption in the network. Our method from these essential proteins chooses 93 proteins related to COVID-19 pathology. Then, we propose multiple informative features based on drug–target and protein−protein interaction information. Through these informative features, we find five appropriate clusters of drugs that contain some candidates as potential COVID-19 treatments. To evaluate our results, we provide statistical and clinical evidence for our candidate drugs. From our proposed candidate drugs, 80% of them were studied in other studies and clinical trials.
Long-term cost-effectiveness of interventions for loss of electricity/industry compared to artificial general intelligence safety
Authors: Denkenberger David , Sandberg Anders , Tieman Ross John , Pearce Joshua M.
Published: September 2021

Extreme solar storms, high-altitude electromagnetic pulses, and coordinated cyber attacks could disrupt regional/global electricity. Since electricity basically drives industry, industrial civilization could collapse without it. This could cause anthropological civilization (cities) to collapse, from which humanity might not recover, having long-term consequences. Previous work analyzed technical solutions to save nearly everyone despite industrial loss globally, including transition to animals powering farming and transportation. The present work estimates cost-effectiveness for the long-term future with a Monte Carlo (probabilistic) model. Model 1, partly based on a poll of Effective Altruism conference participants, finds a confidence that industrial loss preparation is more cost-effective than artificial general intelligence safety of ~ 88% and ~ 99+% for the 30 millionth dollar spent on industrial loss interventions and the margin now, respectively. Model 2 populated by one of the authors produces ~ 50% and ~ 99% confidence, respectively. These confidences are likely to be reduced by model and theory uncertainty, but the conclusion of industrial loss interventions being more cost-effective was robust to changing the most important 4–7 variables simultaneously to their pessimistic ends. Both cause areas save expected lives cheaply in the present generation and funding to preparation for industrial loss is particularly urgent.
A comparison of methods for the long-term harness-based attachment of radio-transmitters to juvenile Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Buck Evan J. , Sullivan Jeffery D. , Kent Cody M. , Mullinax Jennifer M. , Prosser Diann J.
Published: September 2021

Background

While the period from fledging through first breeding for waterbird species such as terns (e.g., genus Sterna, Sternula) is of great interest to researchers and conservationists, this period remains understudied due in large part to the difficulty of marking growing juveniles with radio transmitters that remain attached for extended periods.

Methods

In an effort to facilitate such research, we examined the impact of various combinations of harness types (backpack, leg-loop, and 3D-printed harnesses), harness materials (Automotive ribbon, Elastic cord, and PFTE ribbon), and transmitter types (center-weighted and rear-weighted) on a surrogate for juvenile terns, 28-day-old Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica; selected due to similarities in adult mass and downy feathering of juveniles), in a 30-day experiment. We monitored for abrasion at points of contact and tag gap issues via daily exams while also recording mass and wing cord as indices of growth. This study was designed to serve as an initial examination of the impacts of marking on the growth and development of young birds and does not account for any impacts of tags on movement or behavior.

Results

While we found that treatment (the specific combination of the transmitter type, harness type, and harness material) had no impact on bird growth relative to unmarked control birds (P ≥ 0.05), we did observe differences in abrasion and tag gap between treatments (P ≤ 0.05). Our results suggest that leg-loop harnesses constructed from elastic cord and backpack harnesses from PFTE ribbon are suitable options for long-term attachment to growing juveniles. Conversely, we found that automotive ribbon led to extensive abrasion with these small-bodied birds, and that elastic cord induced blisters when used to make a backpack harness.

Conclusions

While these results indicate that long-term tagging of juvenile birds is possible with limited impacts on growth, this work does not preclude the need for small-scale studies with individual species. Instead, we hope this provides an informed starting point for further exploration of this topic.
Visualizing the cultural landscape gene of traditional settlements in China: a semiotic perspective
Authors: Hu Zui , Strobl Josef , Min Qingwen , Tan Min , Chen Fulong
Published: September 2021

China has a deep traditional culture and a long history, and is rich in traditional settlements (designated as “Famous Historic-Cultural Villages/Towns”, “Chinese Traditional Villages” by Chinese Government). To help people develop these traditional settlements to achieve the great goal of Chinese National Rejuvenation, Chinese scholar put forward the Cultural Landscape Genes of Traditional Settlements (CLGTS) in 2003. Since then, CLGTS theory has been employed to solve the issues of Chinese traditional settlements, such as the identification and regionalization of cultural landscape genes in traditional settlements, and the understanding of architectural features. Although CLGTS theory has made great strides in many application fields, there is still a lack of scientific findings in exploring the symbol mechanism from a perspective of semiotics. To explore this, we firstly examined the core features of CLGTS through a dialectical perspective. We analyzed two features of CLGTS in depth. First, CLGTS is the dialectical combination of macro settlement image and micro cultural factors of traditional settlements, material appearance and inherent traditional cultural implications, overall features and local self-renewal mechanisms, qualitative and quantitative methods, superiority of cultural factors and rich cultural connotation. Second, CLGTS is famous for its nonlinearity, self-organization, and self-iteration due to various spatial shapes and complex structures. Based on the above, we first proposed the concept of Symbolization Method of CLGTS (SM-CLGTS). Then, we further explored the key features, classification methods, and corresponding representation methods of CLGTS symbols. Finally, by using Visual C#.net program language, we developed a prototype system of the Traditional Landscape Genetic Symbol Database (TLGSD) to create and centrally manage CLGTS symbols. Test results show that TLGSD can meet the needs of constructing a CLGTS symbol database for a given region. This study is of great significance to explore and contribute to visualizing the CLGTS symbols.
Immature granulocytes can help the diagnosis of pulmonary bacterial infections in patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Daix Thomas , Jeannet Robin , Hernandez Padilla Ana Catalina , Vignon Philippe , Feuillard Jean , François Bruno
Published: September 2021

During COVID-19, immature granulocyte (IG) concentration is heterogeneous with higher concentrations than those found in bacterial sepsis. We investigated the relationship between IG levels at ICU admission and on days 7 (± 2) and 15 (± 2) and associated pulmonary bacterial infections in intensive care unit (ICU) patients hospitalized for an acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) related to SARS-CoV-2. Patients with associated pulmonary bacterial infection had a peak of IGs. IG thresholds of 18% or 2 G/L allowed discriminating patients with ventilator associated pneumonia with 100% sensitivity and specificity. Our study supports that IGs could help identifying pulmonary bacterial infections in this population.
Evaluation of chemical and microbial quality of food in northern Iran
Authors: Aghalari Zahra , Hosseini Seyed Reza , Jafarian Somayeh , Rezazadeh Mohsen , Mirzaei Mohsen , Esmaeili Ebrahim , Hasanzadeh Peyman
Published: September 2021

Background

Iran is one of the developing countries and foodborne diseases commonly impose problems for public health, the health care system and the economy. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the chemical and microbial quality of food in northern Iran.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019. This study was performed on food samples obtained in a straightforward way while visiting food preparation and distribution centers in Babol. Tests related to different food types were performed by laboratory experts. Data collection with a checklist: date and place of sampling, number of samples, type of food, type of test, compliance of results with standards. Data were analyzed by SPSS22 and descriptive statistics, Chi-square and t-test.

Results

1043 food samples were tested from 5 groups of dairy products, protein, cereals, vegetables and other food groups. The highest number of samples in the cereal group was 767 samples (73.53%). In the cereal group, most samples were breads. The pH of 11.67% of breads and the salt in 21.49% of breads did not match the standard. The blankit (sodium hydrosulfite) on bread dough were negative. Moisture, gluten, ash and pH match with the standards in all flour samples. The results of microbial tests on sweets and ice cream showed that Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella were negative. Enterobacter aerogenes was positive in 8.20% of sweets, mold and yeast were positive in 19.58%. The results of microbial tests on buttermilk and yogurt, grilled meat and chicken sandwiches, vegetables and salads showed that bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and all microorganisms were negative. Mold tests were positive in 11.12% of juice samples.

Conclusions

The results showed that the foods and drinks supplied in food and drink preparation and distribution centers in Babol in 2019 were of good chemical and microbial quality. In some food groups the results of microbial and chemical testings were negative, i.e. without contamination. Less than 20% of products in the group of cereals and protein products did not match with the standards, which is a satisfactory result compared to other studies conducted in different cities of Iran. These good results for food quality can be explained bythe constructive performance of food health experts that made good controling, monitoring, and food health and hygiene education.
Validation and reliability of the Dutch version of the EORTC QLQ-NMIBC24 Questionnaire Module for patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Ripping Theodora M. , Westhoff Ellen , Aaronson Neil K. , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Rammant Elke , Witjes J. Alfred , Kiemeney Lambertus. A. , Aben Katja K. H. , Vrieling Alina
Published: September 2021

Background

The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) quality of life questionnaire for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (QLQ-NMIBC24) has been available and applied for some years now, but has yet to undergo a full comprehensive psychometric evaluation. The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Dutch version of the EORTC QLQ-NMIBC24 questionnaire in patients with low, intermediate and high risk NMIBC.

Methods

We included patients newly diagnosed with NMIBC participating in the multicenter, population-based prospective cohort studies UroLife or BlaZIB. Psychometric evaluation included examination of the structural validity, reliability (i.e. internal consistency and test–retest reliability), construct validity (i.e. divergent validity and known-groups validity), responsiveness and interpretability.

Results

A total of 1463 patients who completed the baseline questionnaire of UroLife (n = 541, response rate 50%) or BlaZIB (n = 922, response rate 58%) were included. The percentage of missing responses were low for all non-sex related scales (< 1%) and ranged between 6.9% to 50.0% for sex-related scales. More than 15% of the patients obtained the lowest possible scores on nearly each scale (floor effect). The structural validity was adequate; the confirmatory factor analysis showed satisfactory results and all items of multiple items scales had higher within- than between-scale correlations. Reliability of the questionnaire was adequate for most multiple item scales (Cronbach’s α ≥ 0.70 and intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.70), with exception of the scales ‘malaise’ and ‘bloating and flatulence’. The questionnaire also showed good construct validity; it showed low correlations with the items of the EORTC core questionnaire and was able to measure differences between risk-based subgroups. The responsiveness of the questionnaire was good, but the interpretability, i.e. minimal important change, could not be determined.

Conclusions

This study shows that the measurement properties of the EORTC QLQL-NMIBC24 are good; it has a good structural validity, reliability (i.e. internal consistency and test–retest reliability), construct validity (i.e. divergent validity and known-group validity), and responsiveness. Interpretability could not be assessed. This questionnaire can be used to measure and monitor health-related quality of life of patients with NMIBC.
Effects of insecticides and cultivars on panicle-feeding insect pest infestations and grain yield of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) in northern Ghana
Authors: Nboyine Jerry A. , Opare-Obuobi Kenneth , Yahaya Iddrisu , Badii Benjamin K. , Kusi Francis , Yahaya Asieku , Adazebra Gloria
Published: September 2021

Background

Panicle-feeding insects are a challenge in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) cultivation but most farmers do not protect the crop. Here, the effects of pest management in different sorghum cultivars on grain yields and the financial returns after protecting the crop from panicle-feeding insects was studied.

Results

There were significant insecticide treatments × cultivars/genotypes interaction effects for Stenodiplosis sorghicola, Clavigralla tomentosicollis, Nezara viridula, Dysdercus fasciantus and Riptortus dentipes. Generally, pest infestations were higher in the untreated control compared to K-Optimal- or NSO-treated sorghum. Infestations were also higher in compact-headed cultivars (Dorado and Kapaala) compared to those with open heads (CSSOR 08-V01 and CSSOR 10-V07). Damage was approximately 1.7-fold higher in the untreated controls than in NSO or K-Optimal. Grain yields were about 14% higher in NSO or K-Optimal treated sorghum than in controls. Gross margins were between 16- and 35-fold higher in protected sorghum compared to the untreated ones.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that an effective integrated pest management strategy for sorghum farmers must comprise cultivars that do not have compact heads, and the use of about two sprays of NSO or a synthetic pyrethroid when high numbers of panicle-feeding insects are observed during the growing season. Judicious use of insecticides and the “right” cultivar will improve the profitability of sorghum farmers with gross marginal returns that are at least 15-fold higher than that obtained by farmers who adopt only good agronomic practices without insecticide sprays.
Development and reliability of the histological THROMBEX-classification rule for thrombotic emboli of acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Ribbat-Idel Julika , Stellmacher Florian , Jann Florian , Kalms Nicolas , König Inke R. , Ohlrich Marcus , Royl Georg , Klotz Stefan , Kurz Thomas , Kemmling Andrè , Roessler Florian C.
Published: September 2021

Background

Thrombus histology has become a potential diagnostic tool for the etiology assessment of patients with ischemic stroke caused by embolic proximal vessel occlusion. We validated a classification rule that differentiates between cardiac and arteriosclerotic emboli in individual stroke patients. We aim to describe in detail the development of this classification rule and disclose its reliability.

Methods

The classification rule is based on the hypothesis that cardiac emboli arise out of separation thrombi and arteriosclerotic emboli result from agglutinative thrombi. 125 emboli recovered by thrombectomy from stroke patients and 11 thrombi serving as references for cardiac (n = 5) and arteriosclerotic emboli (n = 6) were Hematoxylin and eosin, Elastica-van Gieson and CD61 stained and rated independently by two histopathologists blinded to the presumed etiology by several pre-defined criteria. Intra- and interobserver reliabilities of all criteria were determined. Out of the different criteria, three criteria with the most satisfactory reliability values were selected to compose the classification rule that was finally adjusted to the reference thrombi. Reliabilities of the classification rule were calculated by using the emboli of stroke patients.

Results

The classification rule reached intraobserver reliabilities for the two raters of 92.9% and 68.2%, respectively. Interobserver reliability was 69.9%.

Conclusions

A new classification rule for emboli obtained from thrombectomy was established. Within the limitations of histological investigations, it is reliable and able to distinguish between cardioembolic and arteriosclerotic emboli.
COVID-19 infection initially presented by interstitial edematous pancreatitis and acute peri-pancreatic collection; the first CT case report in Egypt
Authors: Samir Ahmed , Elnekeidy Abdelaziz , El-Kady Enjy
Published: September 2021

Background

The extra-pulmonary computed tomography (CT) findings of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) or coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been described in the literature, including the neurologic, cardiac, and abdominal manifestations. Ischemic and inflammatory bowel changes were the most frequent abdominal CT findings. Acute pancreatitis was seldom found all over the world outside of China and described in case reports, but not in Egypt.

Case presentation

A 44-years-old female patient presented with severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and mild fever for six days. No respiratory symptoms were encountered till the time of the radiological investigation. Abdominal CT examination revealed interstitial edematous pancreatitis with acute peri-pancreatic fluid collection according to the revised Atlanta classification. No pancreatic necrosis or vascular complications were depicted. Secondary pyloro-duodenitis was noticed. The modified Balthazar CT-severity index was moderate (6/10). Basal chest scans showed bilateral variable-sized bronchocentric and sub-pleural consolidative pneumonic patches with mild bilateral pleural effusion. The patient was admitted to the intensive-care unit (ICU) for two weeks. The serum amylase and lipase titers were elevated and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 was positive. She received pancreatic, circulatory, and pulmonary medical support, then she was discharged after stabilization of her condition.

Conclusion

The authors provided this case report for the association between COVID-19 infection and acute pancreatitis, which is mostly the first in Egypt. It documented their Egyptian experience to be added to the international literature. It radiologically described their chest and abdominal CT findings in detail using the COVID-19 Reporting and Data System (CO-RADS) and the revised Atlanta classification with modified Balthazar CT-severity index (CTSI). This could eventually enrich the radiological point of view in addition to the previously published clinical case reports.
The COVID-19 pandemic: an opportunity to make mental health a higher public health priority
Authors: Latoo Javed , Haddad Peter M. , Mistry Minal , Wadoo Ovais , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Jan Farida , Iqbal Yousaf , Howseman Tom , Riley David , Alabdulla Majid
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first recognised in December 2019. The subsequent pandemic has caused 4.3 million deaths and affected the lives of billions. It has increased psychosocial risk factors for mental illness including fear, social isolation and financial insecurity and is likely to lead to an economic recession. COVID-19 is associated with a high rate of neuropsychiatric sequelae. The long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health remain uncertain but could be marked, with some predicting an increased demand for psychiatric services for years to come. COVID-19 has turned a spotlight on mental health for politicians, policy makers and the public and provides an opportunity to make mental health a higher public health priority. We review longstanding reasons for prioritising mental health and the urgency brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, and highlight strategies to improve mental health and reduce the psychiatric fallout of the pandemic.