bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CEP55 3’-UTR promotes epithelial–mesenchymal transition and enhances tumorigenicity of bladder cancer cells by acting as a ceRNA regulating miR- 497-5p
Authors: Yang Chenglin , Yang Yue , Wang Wei , Zhou Wuer , Zhang Xiaoming , Xiao Yuansong , Zhang Huifen
Published: May 2022

Background: Centrosomal protein 55 (CEP55) is implicated in the tumorigenesis of bladder cancer (BC) but the detailed molecular mechanisms are unknown. We aim to develop a potential competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network related with CEP55 in BC.Methods: We first extracted the expression profiles of RNAs from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and used bioinformatic analysis to establish ceRNAs in BC. Real-time quantity PCR (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemical analysis were performed to measure CEP55 expression in different bladder cell lines and different grades of cancer. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase assays were conducted to predict potential binding sites among miR-497-5p, CEP55, parathyroid hormone like hormone (PTHLH) and high mobility group A2 (HMGA2). Tumor xenograft model was used to show the effect of CEP55 3’-UTR on cisplatin therapy. Bioinformatics analysis, luciferase assays, and 5' rapid amplification of cDNA ends (5’RACE) were to explore the function of CEP55 3’-untranslated region (3’-UTR) on targeting miR-497-5p. Western blot and immunofluorescence assays were to detect the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) induction of CEP55 3’-UTR.Results: CEP55 expression as well as the expression levels of the oncogenic proteins PTHLH and HMGA2 were upregulated in BC cells while miR-497-5p was downregulated. Low miR-497-5p expression and high CEP55 and HMGA2 expression levels were associated with more advanced tumor clinical stage and pathological grade. Overexpression of the CEP55 3’-UTR promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of the EJ cell line in vitro and accelerated EJ-derived tumor growth in nude mice, while inhibition of the CEP55 3’-UTR suppressed all of these oncogenic processes. In addition, CEP55 3’-UTR upregulation reduced the cisplatin sensitivity of BC cell lines and xenograft tumors. Bioinformatics analysis, luciferase assays, and 5’RACE suggested that the CEP55 3’-UTR functions as a ceRNA targeting miR-497-5p, leading to miR-497-5p downregulation and disinhibition of PTHLH and HMGA2 expression. Further, CEP55 downregulated miR-497-5p transcription by promoting NF-kB signaling. In turn, PTHLH and HMGA2 activated p38MAPK and ERK 1/2 pathways, and induced EMT of BC cells. Conclusions: These results suggest that a ceRNA regulatory network involving CEP55 upregulates PTHLH and HMGA2 expression by suppressing endogenous miR-497-5p in bladder cancer.
pregnancy outcome and follow-up of offspring of donor oocytes recipient from PCOS patients
Authors: JIANG YAN , YUAN JING-CHUAN , SONG GE , ZHANG XU-HUI , MIAO SUI-BING , WU XIAO-HUA
Published: May 2022

Background
The use of donated oocytes (DO) for in vitro fertilization(IVF) treatment in patients with infertility is generally recognized, and women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are able to participate in oocyte donation programs as donor patients. However, the pregnancy outcomes and follow-up of offspring of PCOS receptor is unclear.
Objective
Comparing the pregnancy outcomes and follow-up of offspring in PCOS and non-PCOS receptor.
Design
: Retrospective cohort study.
Methods
A total of 62 patients who had undergoing oocyte reception program were separated into two groups: Group I, PCOS oocyte receptor (𝑛=30); Group II, non-PCOS receptors (𝑛=32). Medical records were reviewed and rates of fertilization, cleavage, high quality embryos and blastocysts were compared between PCOS and non-PCOS receptors. Rates of implantation, pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, early abortion, multiple pregnancy, and offspring outcome were calculated in first single vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer (SVBT) were analyzed between PCOS and non-PCOS receptors.
Results
The average recipient age from PCOS and non-PCOS patients were 36.3 ± 2.6 and 36.2 ± 2.8, respectively. Rates of fertilization, cleavage, high quality embryos and blastocysts were not significantly different. Rates of implantation, pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, early abortion, and multiple pregnancy were not significantly different in SVBT between PCOS and non-PCOS receptors. The incidences for complications such as PIH, or gestational diabetes between PCOS and non-PCOS receptors were similar (11.8% vs.11.1%, 5.9% vs.5.5%; P > 0.05). Preterm birth were similar (11.8% vs.16.7%, P > 0.05). Donor oocytes were more likely to deliver by caesarean section (80.0% vs. 86.7%: P > 0.05). And the mean gestational age, as well as the birth weight, and height were comparable for both groups in full-term delivery.
Conclusions
There was no difference in the pregnancy outcomes and follow-up of offspring between PCOS and non-PCOS receptor.
ZnO and Ni-doped ZnO photocatalysts: Synthesis, characterization and improved visible light driven photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue
Authors: Ahmad Iqbal , Aslam Mehwish , Jabeen Uzma , Zafar Muhammad Nadeem , Malghani Muhammad Najam Khan , Alwadai Norah , Alshammari Fwzah H. , Almuslem Amani Saleh , Ullah Zahid
Published: May 2022

The nickel modified zinc oxide (ZnO) photocatalysts with nominal composition of Zn1 − xNixO (x = 0.0–0.5) were synthesized by wet chemical approach. Optical studies were performed using Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR), electronic spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) complimented with Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) was used to study the morphology and chemical composition of prepared photocatalysts. A significant hypsochromic shift has been observed with respect to un-doped ZnO nanocatalyst due to quantum confinement effect. Subsequently, the band gap has been tuned to the region of lower wavelength. X-ray results reveal that ZnO nanocatalyst are in hexagonal crystalline form. In addition, the effect of nickel impurity on photocatalytic activity of ZnO nanocatalysts in degradation of methylene blue (MB) was also investigated. Degradation results showed that the MB was degraded more effectively by Ni-doped ZnO photocatalysts due to large band gap under visible light irradiation.
A Meta-analysis of Internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Military and Veteran Populations
Authors: Liu Jenny J.W. , Ein Natalie , Forchuk Callista , Wanklyn Sonya G. , Ragu Suriya , Saroya Samdarsh , Nazarov Anthony , Richardson J. Don
Published: May 2022

Background
Military and veteran populations are unique in their trauma exposures, rates of mental illness and comorbidities, and response to treatments. While reviews have suggested that internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (iCBT) can be useful for treating mental health conditions, the extent to which they may be appropriate for military and veteran populations remain unclear. The goals of the current meta-analysis are to: (1) substantiate the effects of iCBT for military and veteran populations, (2) evaluate its effectiveness compared to control conditions, and (3) examine potential factors that may influence their effectiveness.
Methods
This review was completed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting and Cochrane review guidelines. The literature search was conducted using PsycInfo, Medline, Embase, and Proquest Dissertation & Theses on June 4, 2021 with no date restriction. Inclusion criteria included studies that: (1) were restricted to adult military or veteran populations, (2) incorporated iCBT as the primary treatment, and (3) evaluated mental health outcomes. Exclusion criteria included: (1) literature reviews, (2) qualitative studies, (3) study protocols, (4) studies that did not include a clinical/analogue population, and (5) studies with no measure of change on outcome variables. Two independent screeners reviewed studies for eligibility. Data was pooled and analyzed using random-effects and mixed-effects models. Study data information were extracted as the main outcomes, including study condition, sample size, and pre- and post-treatment means and standard deviations for all assessed outcomes. Moderator information were also extracted, and included demographics information, the types of outcomes measured, primary condition targeted, concurrent treatment, drop pout rate, and format, length, and delivery of intervention.
Results
A total of 20 studies and 144 samples of data were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled effect size showed a small but meaningful effect for iCBT, g = 0.63, SE = 0.05, 95% CI (0.54, 0.73), Z = 13.14, p < .001.
Conclusions
Findings from the meta-analysis lend support for the use of iCBT with military and veteran populations. Conditions under which iCBT may be optimized are discussed.
Emergence of Nutrigenomics and dietary components as a complementary therapy in cancer prevention
Authors: Srivast Shambhavi , Dubey Ankit Kumar , Madan Reecha , Bala Rajni , Gupta Yugam , Singh Bahadur , Kumar Suresh
Published: May 2022

Cancer is an illness characterized by abnormal cell development and the capability to infiltrate or spread to rest of the body. When this abnormal development progresses in solid tissues, such as an organ, muscle, or bone it is known as tumour, which can spread to other regions of the body via the blood and lymphatic systems. Nutrition is a critical and immortal environmental component in the development of all living organisms encoding the relationship between a person's nutrition and their genes. These interactions have a significant impact on the pharmacokinetic properties of bioactive dietary components, as well as their site of action/molecular targets. They have the ability to modify gene expression and persuade alterations in DNA and protein molecules, which is researched scientifically in nutrigenomics. Nutrigenomics encompasses nutrigenetics, epigenetics, and transcriptomics, as well as other “omic” disciplines like proteomics and metabolomics, to explain the vast disparities in cancer risk among people with roughly similar life style. Clinical trials and researches have evidenced that alternation of dietary habits is potentially one of the key approaches for reducing cancer risk in an individual. In this article, we will target how nutrigenomics and functional food work as preventive therapy in reducing the risk of cancer.
iTLS™ model for increasing operational efficiency: Application in an energy and telecommunications systems industry
Authors: De Lucia Walison Mathias , Braga Washington Luis Moreira
Published: May 2022

Theory of Constraints, Lean Manufacturing, and Six Sigma are methodologies that have already brought numerous benefits regarding system efficiency. Their applications range go from operations management to service levels, revolutionizing the market and boosting the economy. However, the market demand is extremely high and aiming for continuous improvement as a way to always seek to prosper, integration models related to these methodologies have been proposed. As a way to amplify their benefits of use, the objective of this article is to propose and execute a logical application roadmap through a model that integrates the methodologies of Theory of Constraints, Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma, called iTLS™, a model that is little studied in the literature. Therefore, the action research method was used where the limiting factors of the process were highlighted and corrective actions were outlined that resulted in a significant improvement in operational performance. The process of improving operational performance follows a logical sequence of tool application developed through the proposal of a methodology using the iTLS™ model and using as metrics the OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) and MTTR (Mean Time To Repair) indicators.
A simple denoising approach to exploit multi-fidelity data for machine learning materials properties
Authors: Rignanese Gian-Marco , Liu Xiaotong , De Breuck Pierre-Paul , Wang Linghui
Published: May 2022

Machine-learning models have recently encountered enormous success for predicting the properties of materials. These are often trained based on data that present various levels of accuracy, with typically much less high- than low-fidelity data. In order to extract as much information as possible from all available data, we here introduce an approach which aims to improve the quality of the data through denoising. We investigate the possibilities that it offers in the case of the prediction of the band gap relying on both limited experimental data and density-functional theory relying different exchange-correlation functionals (with an increasing amount of data as the accuracy of the functional decreases). We explore different ways to combine the data into training sequences and analyze the effect of the chosen denoiser. Finally, we analyze the effect of applying the denoising procedure several times until convergence. Our approach provides an improvement over existing methods to exploit multi-fidelity data.
Respiratory microbiome dysbiosis and temporal dynamics in individuals with asthma.
Authors: Megremis Spyridon , Yap Chuan Fu , Tapinos Avraam , Kritikou Maria , Wardzyńska Aleksandra , Busby Joseph , Rovina Nikoletta , Chałubiński Maciej , Xepapadaki Paraskevi , Muldoon Mark , Gilman R. Tucker , Robertson David , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G
Published: May 2022

Microbiome dysbiosis across the respiratory tract has been implicated in the development and exacerbations of asthma. Little is known regarding the short-term temporal variability of the respiratory microbiome in health and asthma. In this study, we evaluate six scenarios of dysbiosis by investigating the inter- and intra-individual variability of the nasopharyngeal microbiome, measured with metagenomic sequencing. We characterized 239 microbiome samples from thirteen healthy individuals and from seventeen patients with well-controlled mild to moderate persistent asthma collected during a one-month period in which patients experienced no asthma exacerbations or infections. We controlled for sex, age (range 5 to 38 years), population (Greece and Poland), and microbiome type, for multiple levels of species incidence (expanded to core). Microbiomes collected from the same individual at different time points were more similar than those collected from the same group (health or asthma), but some individuals’ microbiomes were more variable than others. Microbiomes drawn from asthma patients were less likely to resemble each other than the microbiomes of healthy individuals, suggesting increased inter-sample variability and susceptibility to stochastic changes in asthma. In addition, the microbiomes of asthma patients became increasingly dissimilar over time, suggesting increased intra-individual temporal dynamics. Finally, microbiomes of individuals with asthma were more diverse than those of healthy individuals, while species diversity was negatively associated with temporal change in both the asthma and health groups. We propose that the increased diversity, inter-sample variability and intra-individual temporal dynamics during stable disease state(s) are intrinsic properties of the microbial system in asthma and characterise dysbiosis. Our work has significant implications for the relevance of the respiratory microbiome in asthma.
Sustainable utilization and optimization of spray dried fermented pumpkin juice
Authors: Sharma Poorva , Kashyap Piyush , Kehinde Bababode Adesegun , Kaur Sawinder
Published: May 2022

Pumpkin, a nutrient rich vegetable with approximately 27 million tonnes production globally generates high amount of pumpkin waste. The need of the hour is the utilization of vegetable waste in sustainable way. Production of value added product is the possible solution for this problem. As fruit and vegetables have proved to be promising carriers for probiotics. Hence, in this work, research studies have been carried out on the effective utilization of pumpkin by developing non-dairy probiotic beverage. The extracted pumpkin juice was fermented by Lactobacillus fermentum NCDC 141 and microencapsulation of probiotic microorganisms was done by spray drying. Growth conditions of fermenting microorganism were optimized in MRS medium and pumpkin juice. Desirable viable cell count i.e more than 106 was observed with 10% inoculum size after 15 hr incubation time. Significant different was seen between properties of fermented and non-fermented pumpkin juice. Optimization of spray drying conditions to obtain maximum viable cells and DPPH scavenging activity and minimum moisture content and hygroscopicity was done by response surface methodology (RSM). Optimal conditions to get desirable characteristics were observed at 20% maltodextrin concentration and 140°C inlet air temperature. Fermented microencapsulated pumpkin powder showed 62.36% DPPH scavenging activity, 7.985 log CFU/ml viable cells, 2.413% moisture content and 16.324% hygroscopicity at optimized conditions. High encapsulation efficiency (89.00 ± 0.91%), water solubility index (87.59 ± 0.89%) and antioxidant activity (64.36 ± 1.28%) was seen for fermented powder. Further, scanning electron microscopy images showed adequate encapsulation of probiotic pumpkin juice with smooth and nearly spherical structure.
Care practices and short-term clinical outcomes of very and extremely low birth weight infants in Yangtze River Delta in China
Authors: Lyu Tianchan , Tao Yibo , Hua Wei , Li Liling , Tang Yunfei , Jin Yumei , Wang Yan , Ma Yuelan , Ji Futing , Dou Yalan , Cao Yun , Hu Xiao-jing
Published: May 2022

Background
Intensive care is of great significance for very and extremely low birth weight infants.
Objectives
To investigate the prevalence, care practices and motality of very and extremely low birth weight infants (VELBWI) in Yangtze River Delta in China.
Methods
A multi-center retrospective investigation study was conducted at five tertiary hospitals within the Yangtze River Delta in China from January to December 2017. Clinical data included the general characteristics of the infants and the mothers, clinical prognosis, care practices in NICUs was collected by trained research members.
Results
During the study period, 1059 VELBWIs were included. Infants with birth weight < 750g, 750-1000g, 1000-1250g and 1250-1500g accounted for 2.3%, 14.9%, 34.8% and 47.8%, respectively. Premature rupture of membranes (17.85%) was the main cause of premature delivery. The catheterization rates of umbilical vein catheterization (UVC) and peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) were 25.02% and 64.4%, respectively. The duration of parenteral nutrition was 27.0 ± 19.5 d, the meantime of feeding tube indwelling was 36.2 ± 24.2 d. The corrected gestational age of the infants who reached full oral feeding was 35.8 ± 2.7 weeks. The breast feeding rate in the investigated infants was 61.9%. The mortality rate of preterm infants was 3.4%. The incidence of main complications BPD, PDA, ROP, NEC and sepsis were 24.9%, 29.9%, 21.72%, 9.4% and 13.3% respectively.
Conclusions
Maternal and infant care practices need to be improved in the very preterm births. This study provides a baseline for the improvement in the further study.
Comprehensive analyses of metabolism-related lncRNA for LUAD
Authors: Sun Xinti , Huang Xingqi , Sun Linao , Zhang Peng , Li Zesheng , Sun Xiaojuan , Zhang Peng
Published: May 2022

Lung adenocarcinoma(LUAD), as a tumor with high heterogeneity, strong invasiveness, and high degree of malignancy, has become a hot issue in contemporary medicine. With the deepening of tumor research, the metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells and the regulatory role of lncRNA in tumor progression have gradually become prominent. This article aims to explore the relationship between the above three. In this study, based on LUAD samples downloaded from TCGA and metabolism-related genes downloaded from KEGG database, 8 key metabolism-related lncRNAs (AC068228.1, LINC02390, AC123595.1, AC021016.1, LINC00707, AL132656.2, AL033397.2 and LINC00941) were screened for the construction of prognostic risk models. After multi-dimensional validation, this risk model proved to have good reliability and validity and was closely related to the immune status and drug tolerance of LUAD patients. In addition, to better clarify the molecular mechanism by which these key lncRNAs affect the LUAD process, we performed functional enrichment analysis and found their close relationship with hematopoietic cell lineage, lipid metabolism, and human humoral immunity. To increase the credibility of this study, we verified the expression levels of these eight lncRNAs in BEAS-2B, A549 and H1975 cell lines, and the results of PCR experiments were in good agreement with our risk model. Overall, the above studies aim to improve the understanding of LUAD and open up new ideas for guiding clinical treatment.
Robust and easy-to-use STR-based method for 15q11-q13 rearrangements identification
Authors: Chernushyn Sergey , Kravchenko Sergey , Patskun Erika , Hryshchenko Nataliya
Published: May 2022

The rearrangements of the 15q11-q13 region such as deletions, duplications, uniparental disomies (UPDs), and translocations caused different neurodevelopment phenotypes including Prader-Willy and Angelman syndromes, 5q11-q13 duplication syndrome, autism spectrum disorders. The aim of our study is to elaborate on the most universal, convenient, and informative molecular test for rapid detection of 15q11-q13 alterations in patients with suspected 15q associated disorders. Eight short tandem repeats (STR) markers within the 15q11.1-q13 locus and 1 STR from 15q21.1 in a combination with SNRPN gene qPCR allowed us to detect both copy number variations (deletions and duplications) and different types of UPDs, determining the origin and boundaries of the reorganization. The proposed strategy significantly improves medical genetic counseling for families - it allows the prediction of the disease severity, the estimation of genetic risks for families, and even applying the personalized approaches to therapy.
Expected Neutrino radiation from proton-photoninteraction in the TeV blazar TXS 0506+056
Authors: Dong qian , Zheng Yonggang
Published: May 2022

IceCube collaboration reported a ∼ 290 TeVhigh energy neutrino signal on 22 September 2017,which is usually referred to as IceCube-170922A. Thebest-fitting direction of IceCube-170922A is very closeto that of the TXS 0506+056 blazar. It means thatIceCube-170922A is consistent with the γ-ray flare of TXS 0506+056. To properly understand this phenomenon, we introduce a model involving synchrotronself-Compton and hadronic scenarios to explain the cooperative event. For the hadronic scenario, we assumethat the protons follow a power-law distribution witha high-energy cutoff under the effect of non-relativisticshock and synchrotron emission. We then consider thesynchrotron emission of protons and investigate the interaction of protons with the low-energy photons originated from the synchrotron emission. The protonphoton interaction is characterized by three main features: 1) the interaction produces Bethe-Heitler pairsand considers their synchrotron emission and inverseCompton scattering, 2) the decay of π0 produces γ-rays, 3) the production of π± is related to the presence of the muon neutrino, muon antineutrino, electron neutrino and electron antineutrino. Upon adopting the parametrization of the observed spectrum ofTXS 0506+056, we get the following results: 1) themodel is able to match the spectral energy distributionof TXS 0506+056, 2) the protons may indeed follow apower-law distribution with high-energy cutoff affectedby the shock in the jet, 3) the interaction of protonswith the low-energy photons may occur in the jet. Weargue that the high energy neutrino radiation IceCube-170922A may be understood in terms of the decay of π± produced in the interactions of protons with thesynchrotron photons in the jet, and the antineutrinosis equal to the neutrino spectrum nearly.
Non-small cell lung cancer: how do experts want to be treated?
Authors: Aksel Nimet , Yoldaş Banu , Kıraklı Esra , Petekkaya İbrahim
Published: May 2022

Objectives: Lung cancer is the leading cancer type among cancer deaths in the world and our country. There are some controversial issues that specialists dealing with oncology have difficulty in decision making. The aim of this study is to determine the approach of physicians of different specialties to the management of lung cancer.Methods: In this study, an on line questionnaire was applied to specialists of lung cancer. In this questionnaire there were some lung cancer scenarios created on controversial issues, each including different stages of the disease. The scenarios were based on the hypothesis that “the participating physicians had lung cancer themselves”, and expected to answer the treatment scenarios in this wise. The participants are pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists. Results: Of the participating 170 physicians 45% were radiation oncologists, 24% pulmonologists, 23% thoracic surgeons and 8% medical oncologists. In the scenario, created to determine the approach to surgery in N2 disease, 45% of cases preferred surgery. It was also remarkable that surgery was preferred 16% in N3 diasease. In stage 1A2 disease, when pulmonary functions were insufficient for surgery, radiotherapy was preferred by 64% of cases. In the scenario questioning the decision about chemotherapy in T3N2 disease, cisplatin-etoposide vs paclitaxel-carboplatin options were preferred 32%, 26% respectively. The approach to solitary brain metastasis was 64% in favor of stereotactic radiotherapy after brain surgery. Immunotherapy was the preferred treatment when multipl brain metastasis occured in case with negative driver mutations and PDL1>1%. In oligometastatic disease, 97% of cases preferred surgery for both lung and metastatic side. Conclusions: Although there are guidelines in the management of lung cancer, there are still controversial issues with renewed treatment protocols in some special conditions. We believe that the results of this study will highlight these issues.
Diffuse and massive endocardial sarcocystosis in a lamb
Authors: Nourani Hossein , Sadr Soheil
Published: May 2022

Sarcocystosis is an important parasitic zoonosis caused by Sarcocystis species, an intracellular protozoan parasite of the Apicomplexa phylum and one of the most prevalent parasitic diseases among wild and domestic animals all around the world. Infection in the definitive host is mainly characterized by the formation of cysts in muscle tissue. In intermediate host skeletal muscles, diaphragm and heart are the favored locations for Sarcocystis spp. While we were examining the heart of a dead, three-month old lamb, incidentally, we observed striking, white and discrete spots, measuring 2-3 mm, that were diffusely distributed in endocardium. Microscopically, numerous sarcocysts were seen within cardiomyocyts and purkinje fibers. No different pathological modifications had been found in inflamed muscle fibers or surround interstitium. To the best of our knowledge, there is no case report about diffuse involvement of endocardium by Sarcocystis spp. and this uncommon form of sarcocystosis prompted us to place the current case on record.
Countrywide insecticide resistance monitoring and first report of the presence of knock down resistance east in Niger, West Africa
Authors: Soumaila Hadiza , Hamani Boubé , Arzika Ibrahim Issa , Amadou Soumana , Daouda Abdoulaye , Souleymane Iro , Gouro Samira , Sani Mahamane , Mahamadou Izamné , Kadri Saadou , Salé Noura Mamane , Hounkanrin Wilfried , Mahamadou Boubacar , Zamaka Halima , Labbo Rabiou , Jackou Hadiza , Idrissa Sabiti , Coulibaly Eric , Bahari-Tohon Zilahatou , Mathieu Els , Carlson Jenny , Dotson Ellen , Awolola Taiwo Samson , Flatley Cecilia , Chabi Joseph
Published: May 2022

Background
Mass distribution of insecticide treated nets (ITNs) is the principal malaria vector control strategy adopted by Niger. To better inform on the most appropriate ITNs to distribute, the Niger National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP), with the support of the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative and its partners, conducted insecticide resistance monitoring in sixteen sites selected across the country.
Methods
The susceptibility of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) to chlorfenapyr and pyrethroid insecticides was investigated in nine sites in 2019 and fifteen sites in 2020, including eightfrom the previous year. The susceptibility status, pyrethroid resistance intensity at 5 and 10 times the diagnostic concentrations, and piperonyl butoxide (PBO) synergism with diagnostic concentrations of deltamethrin, permethrin and alpha-cypermethrin were assessed using WHO bioassays. Two doses (100 and 200 µg/bottle) of chlorfenapyr were tested using the CDC bottle assay method. Species composition and allele frequencies for knock-down resistance (kdr-west and kdr-east) and acetylcholinesterase (ace-1) mutations were further characterized using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Results
High resistance to all pyrethroids tested was observed in all sixteen sites during both years. Pre-exposure to PBO substantially increased susceptibility with average increases in mortality from 30 to 70% for deltamethrin, 0 to 60% for permethrin, and 5 to 70% for alpha-cypermethrin. Susceptibility to chlorfenapyr (100 ug/bottle) was recorded in all sites except in Tessaoua and Magaria where susceptibility was recorded at the dose of 200 ug/bottle. The kdr-e allele, investigated for the first time, was detected in the country. Both kdr-w and kdr-e were present in all 15 sites surveyed in 2020, at frequencies between 0.46–0.81 and 0.41–0.87, respectively. An. coluzzii was the predominant malaria vector species in the 16 sites surveyed for insecticide susceptibility followed by An. gambiae s.s. and An. arabiensis.
Conclusion
The data collected showed high resistance to pyrethroids with the involvement of various resistance mechanisms, which will guide the NMCP in making evidence-based decisions to better adapt vector control strategies and insecticide resistance management in Niger, starting with the introduction of new generation ITNs such as interceptor G2 and PBO ITNs for mass distribution campaigns, by targeting sites where the vector population showed susceptibility to chlorfenapyr or increased mortality using PBO synergism.
Validation of the Self-Reported Domains of the Edmonton Frail Scale in Patients 65 Years of Age and Older
Authors: Sirisegaram Luxey , Owodunni Oluwafemi P. , Ehrlich April , Qin Caroline Xu , Bettick Dianne , Gearhart Susan L.
Published: May 2022

Introduction: In the era of virtual care, self-reported tools are beneficial for preoperative assessments and facilitating postoperative planning. We have previously reported the use of the Edmonton Frailty Scale (EFS) as a valid preoperative assessment tool. Objective: We wished to validate the self-reported domains of the EFS (srEFS) by examining its association with loss of independence (LOI) and mortality. Methods: This is a single-institution observational study of patients ≥ 65 years undergoing multi-specialty surgical procedures who were assessed preoperatively with the EFS. Exploratory data analysis of the EFS was used to determine the threshold for identifying frailty on the srEFS. Procedures were classified using the Operative Stress Score (OSS) scored 1 – 5 (lowest to highest). Hierarchical Condition Category (HCC) was utilized to risk-adjust. LOI was described as a change in functional status at discharge and mortality was defined as in-hospital or up to 30 days following discharge. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to estimate areas under the curves for srEFS versus EFS in relation to LOI and 30-day mortality. Results: 535 patients were included. Exploratory analysis confirmed best positive predictive value for srEFS was ³5. Overall, 113 (21%) patients were frail and 179 (33.5%) patients had an 0SS ³5. LOI occurred in 38 (7%) patients and the mortality rate was 4% (21 patients). ROC analysis showed that the srEFS performed similarly the standard EFS with no difference in discriminatory thresholds for predicting LOI and mortality. Examination of the domains of the EFS demonstrated a lack of association between cognitive decline and the outcomes of interest. However, functional status assessed with either the Get up and Go or self-reported ADLs was independently associated with increased risk for LOI.Conclusion: This study shows that self-reported components EFS are sufficiently valid as a high-risk assessment and are useful in virtual preoperative evaluation to help predict LOI and mortality.
Image-based Hemodynamics and Wall Enhancement in a Superior Basilar Aneurysm: Growth to Rupture
Authors: † Yunchu Yao , † Fei Peng , Mei Yuqian , Zhang Xuyang , Zhang Xuehuan , Xu Yuanqing , Chen* Duanduan , Liu* Aihua
Published: May 2022

Background: High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI) could be used to evaluate the inflammatory process of tissue remodeling via aneurysm wall enhancement (AWE), however, due to the lack of longitudinal evidence, its relationship to the flow pattern has not been fully understood. In this study, HR-MRI and computational hemodynamics were synchronously analyzed on a longitudinal case, from growth to rupture, to reveal the biomechanical and pathological development of intracranial aneurysm (IA).Methods: One patient with superior basilar aneurysm was strictly examined. The growing process and the rupture event of the IA was captured via longitudinal HR-MRI examinations. The signal intensity, thickness of enhancement region, and spatial growth of IA were quantified. In addition, computational fluidic analysis was applied on the patient-specific model at each time points. Precise voxel-based comparison was conducted among the morphological, hemodynamic and enhancement data. Results: There was a significant difference in the flow pattern between enhancement and non-enhancement areas. The time-averaged wall shear stress was negatively correlated with the radial growth of IA (r=-0.413). Enhancement areas were found consistent to the presentations of low flow velocity. Peak signal intensity occurred in the area where displacement index or its rate were in positive values.Conclusions: Based on this growth to rupture longitudinal study, the relationship between hemodynamic patterns to AWE features was confirmed. The rupture site of IA was likely to occur in the junction between the growing and the non-growing interface of the aneurysm wall.
Prioritising the restoration of marine and coastal ecosystems using ecosystem accounting
Authors: Carnell Paul , McLeod Reiss , Young Mary , Gillies Chris , Obst Carl , Macreadie Peter , Ierodiaconou Daniel , Reeves Simon , Eigenraam Mark , Janes Holger , Kelvin Jaya , Nicholson Emily
Published: May 2022

Ecosystem accounting is a structured approach to compiling environmental and economic information. While accounts are typically used to compile data on past trends, they have an unrealised capacity to also be used to inform decisions by providing a structured approach to scenario evaluation of potential futures. We used the global standard for ecosystem accounting (System for Environmental Economic Accounting), to examine past trends and potential future restoration options in two large metropolitan bays, where data existed for tidal marshes, mangroves and seagrass. We assessed options for reversing the loss of these ecosystems and although the net benefit varied between sites, we found that if all sites were restored, the overall investment-benefit ratio would be 10.5, resulting from AUD$100 million of ecosystem services from an investment of AUD$8.5 million. This study highlights the advantage of structured approaches to data compilation through ecosystem accounts, and consideration of ecosystem dynamics and response to restoration actions, to inform management decisions.
Socio-demographic, Behavioural and Clinical determinants influencing Control of Diabetes and Hypertension in Urban Mysore, South India: A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Dey Sudeshna , Mukherjee Aparna , Pati Manoj Kumar , Kar Arin , Ramanaik Satyanarayana , Pujar Ashwini , Malve Vidyacharan , Mohan H. L. , Jayanna Krishnamurthy , Swaroop N
Published: May 2022

BackgroundInadequate control of diabetes and hypertension is a major concern in India because of rising mortality and morbidity. Few studies in India have explored factors that influence control of diabetes and hypertension. The current study aimed to improve the understanding of multifactorial influence on the control of diabetes and hypertension among patients in Primary Health Care Settings(PHC) of urban Karnataka.MethodsWe used a mixed-method study design, within a project aiming to improve non-communicable disease (NCD) continuum of care across PHC in Mysore city, India, conducted in 2018. The quantitative study was conducted among 399 patients with diabetes and/or hypertension and a logistic regression model was used to assess the factors responsible for biological control levels of diabetes and hypertension measured through Glycated Haemoglobin(HbA1c) and blood pressure. Further, in-depth interviews(IDI) were conducted among these patients and the counsellors at PHCs to understand the barriers and enablers for better control.ResultThe quantitative assessment found odds of poor control amongst diabetics’ increased with older age, longer duration of disease, additional chronic conditions, and tobacco consumption. For hypertensives, odds of poor control increased with higher body mass index(BMI), alcohol consumption, and belongingness to lower social groups. These findings were elaborated through qualitative assessment which found that the control status was affected by stress as a result of family or financial worries. Stress, poor lifestyle, and poor health-seeking behaviour interplay with other factors like diet and exercise leading to poor control of diabetes and hypertension.ConclusionA better understanding of determinants associated with disease control can assist in designing focused patient outreach plans, customized communication strategies, need-based care delivery plans, and specific competency-based capacity-building models for health care workers. Client-centric care focusing on biological, social and behavioural determinants is pivotal for appropriate management of NCDs at community level in low-middle income countries.
Exploring caregiver representations that could be obstacles or elements favouring the implementation of therapeutic patient education programmes for people with schizophrenia: a qualitative study of mental health professionals’ perceptions
Authors: Rat Corinne , Meunier-Beillard Nicolas , Moulard Samuel , Denis Frederic
Published: May 2022

BackgroundIn France, there are two main types of psychosocial educational therapies for people with mental disorders: 1) therapeutic patient education (TPE) or "training" and 2) psychoeducation. Both types of educational therapy aim to improve disease morbidity, treatment compliance and patient quality of life, but they have very different modes of application. The aim this study was to interview mental health professionals in order to explore and identify the determinants (barriers and enablers) underlying their acceptance of therapeutic patient education (TPE) in order to facilitate the implementation of these programmes among people with severe mental illness such as schizophrenia.MethodsIn this multicentre cross-sectional study, we opted for a qualitative approach based on individual semi-structured interviews with 21 mental health professionals trained in TPE, regardless of whether they had practiced it before or not. In accordance with the "Jardé" law. (Decree n°2016 − 1537 dated 16 November 2016 published on 17 November 2016 in the Official Journal of the French Republic). No regulatory approval was required for this study.ResultsThe major themes that emerged from the analysis were grouped into the following conceptual framework: 1) mental health professionals (MHPs) highlight important organizational and institutional challenges that they feel are beyond their scope; 2) MHPs mention in parallel their own perceptions and representations of TPE in the context of mental health care, 3) MHPs’ representations could hide a lack of knowledge or awareness that would prevent them from appropriating TPE programmes. For each major theme, the sub-themes identified are presented.ConclusionsAlthough TPE is of interest in the process of patient empowerment, we found that caregivers were reluctant to appropriate this approach to care. Efforts must be made in the initial and ongoing training of MHPs to move from a paternalistic model to a patient partnership model, which is made possible by TPE. These efforts must also be firmly supported by health care facilities, and proactive governance is required for the successful implementation of TPE.Trial registrationretrospectively registered
Antifungal activity and genomic characterization of the isolate Bacillus velezensis CMRP 4489, a biocontrol agent for plant-pathogenic fungi
Authors: Baptista Julia Pezarini , Teixeira Gustavo Manoel , Jesus Maria Luiza Abreu , Bertê Rosiana , Higashi Allan , Mosella Mirela , Silva Daniel Vieira , Oliveira João Paulo , Sanches Danilo Sipoli , Brancher Jacques Duílio , Balbi-Peña Maria Isabel , Padua Ulisses Pereira , de Oliveira Admilton Gonçalves
Published: May 2022

The development of bio-based products has increased on account of numerous factors, including environmental awareness, human health concerns, and the more frequent selection of resistant pathogens to synthetic products. Among the studied genera for product development are the species of the Bacillus genus due to their elevated production of molecules with antimicrobial activity and resistance to extreme environmental conditions through endospore formation. In this context, the antifungal potential of Bacillus velezensis strain CMRP 4489 was investigated using in silico predictions of secondary metabolites in its genome and in vitro tests against the following phytopathogenic fungi: Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (SS), Macrophomina phaseolina (MP), and Botrytis cinerea (BC). The in silico predictions indicated that CMRP 4489 possesses several Biosynthetic Gene Clusters (BGCs) capable of producing molecules with antifungal properties and other non-identified BGCs. The in vitro assay results evidenced strong antifungal activity, inhibiting more than 60% of the tested fungi, and the isolate’s molecules were stable under diverse physicochemical conditions. Therefore, CMRP 4489 showed to be a potential biocontrol agent against various diseases with agronomical importance and can be used under adverse environmental conditions.
Occurrence of asymptomatic malaria infection and living conditions in the lowlands of Ethiopia; a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Goshu Endale Mengesha , Zerefa Meseret Dessalegne , Tola Habteyes Hailu
Published: May 2022

Background: A significant decline in malaria burden was documented in previously high burden African countries. Even though the global decline in malaria burden was significant, about 95% of it was typically found in 29 African countries. The considerable reduction in malaria incidence was noted due to effective prevention and treatment efforts, and rapid changes in living conditions. The relationship between the occurrence of asymptomatic malaria infection and household living conditions is well unstudied. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the association between household living conditions and the occurrence of asymptomatic malaria in the lowlands of Ethiopia.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study conducted in twelve villages of Gambella, SNNPR and Afar in Ethiopia. A total of 1366 households were randomly selected, interviewed, and tested for malaria by Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) and blood film microscopic examination.Results: Dwellings built with traditional wall materials (p = 0.050), spending nights with cattle in the same house (p=0.000), and availability of a kitchen in the main house with no partition (p = 0.004), were significantly associated with asymptomatic malaria infection after adjusting for the effect of other confounding variables.Conclusions: Policies and strategies on malaria elimination need to address or target improvements of living conditions of rural residents.
Competition to Promote Teaching and Improving Nursing Skill Using the Team Game Tournament Method with Learning from Competition
Authors: Fang Yu Yuan , Lin Yish-Yuan , Lu Li-Ting
Published: May 2022

The acquisition of nursing skills is one of the essential learning competencies for nursing students. One way of promoting teaching through competitive play this is via the team game tournament (TGT) method, a teaching strategy based on the team-based learning approach that creates a lively and fun tournament-like atmosphere to facilitate learning. A pedagogy built on the theoretical foundations of the TGT’s composition and principles, the activities of a three-week medical-surgical nursing technology course were formulated to include teaching plan design instructions, TGT steps and procedures, and skill assessment tools. After testing the TGT method on a group of 48 students, through pedagogical design proved that it could enhance learning motivation and participation, cultivate critical thinking, and facilitate research tool development. While this learning method has fixed rules for learning content, it can still effectively hone the cognitive and critical thinking skills of students and enable them to become better nurses.
The association between Body Fat Distribution and Bone Mineral Density: Evidence from the US population
Authors: Ma Ming , Liu Xiaolong , Jia Gengxin , Geng Bin , Xia Yayi
Published: May 2022

Objective: To investigate the association between different body fat distribution and different sites of BMD in male and female populations.Methods: Use the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) datasets to select participants. The weighted linear regression model investigated the difference in body fat and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) in different gender. Multivariate adjusted smoothing curve-fitting and multiple linear regression models were used to explore whether an association existed between body fat distribution and BMD. Last, a subgroup analysis was performed according to age and gender group.Results: Overall, 2,881 participants were included in this study. Compared to males, female participants had lower BMD (P < 0.05) and higher Gynoid fat mass (P < 0.00001), while there was no difference between Android fat mass (P = 0.91). Android fat mass was positively associated with Total femur BMD (Males, β = 0.044, 95% CI = 0.037, 0.051, P < 0.00001; Females, β = 0.044, 95% CI = 0.039, 0.049, P < 0.00001), Total spine BMD (Males, β = 0.036, 95% CI = 0.029, 0.044, P < 0.00001; Females, β = 0.025, 95% CI = 0.019, 0.031, P < 0.00001), and other sites. Subgroup analysis of age and ethnicity reached similar results.Conclusion: Body fat in different regions was positively associated with BMD in different sites, and this association persisted in subgroup analyses across age and race in different gender.