bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome Analysis of the Durable Leaf Rust Resistance in the Wheat Variety Toropi
Authors: Casassola Alice , Ereful Nelzo C. , Zanella Camila C. , Brammer Sandra P. , Chaves Márcia , Martinelli José A. , Boyd Lesley A.
Published: July 2022

Background
Leaf rust, caused by the fungal pathogen Puccinia triticina (Pt), is a major constraint to wheat production worldwide. The Brazilian wheat variety Toropi, released in 1965 and commercially cultivated for over 15 years, has maintained a high level of field resistance to leaf rust, while being seedling susceptible to all known Brazilian Pt isolates.
Results
The adult plant resistance (APR) in Toropi exhibits a prehaustorial phenotype, the pathogens development being halted at appressorial and sub-stomatal vesicle growth stages. A time-course analysis was performed to explore the resistance mechanisms behind the unique APR in Toropi, taking flag leaf samples for RNA sequencing over 24 hours following inoculation with Pt race MDT-MR. An average of 87.8% of paired-end reads aligned to the Chinese Spring IWGSC RefSeq v.1, and 0.53% to the Pt reference transcriptome, release 35. Cross-conditional different expression of wheat genes was undertaken, comparing Pt- to Mock-inoculated, and Pt- to Pt-inoculated timepoints. More genes were downregulated than upregulated, particularly at the early timepoints of 6 and 12 hours after inoculation (hai). GO enrichment analysis indicated a shutting down of RNA and protein synthesis, particularly prevalent from the downregulation of genes involved in ribosome structure and function. There was also an early effect on photosynthesis, with disruption of the electron transfer chain. Analyses of upregulated genes identified genes involved in ATP binding and protein kinase activity at 6 hai, suggesting a rapid metabolic response to Pt inoculation. There was a general upregulation of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and oxidoreductase activity (linked to defence through the generation of ROS), and transport of protein/peptides, nitrogen and organic compounds, indicating the possible need to relocate protein-based resources, either for the benefit of the host or the pathogen. Alignment of differentially expressed wheat genes with the genomic regions defining four QTL contributing to the leaf rust APR in Toropi identified a number of potential candidate genes, including a sugar transporter, a receptor kinase and a gene annotated as a seven transmembrane MLO family protein. In addition, 60 Pt genes were identified, six being annotated as potential effector proteins. Expression of four effectors peaked at 6 hai, one at 0 hai and the sixth at 12 hai, all well before the formation of haustoria.
Conclusions
Analysis of gene expression in the wheat variety Toropi at the point in Pt development at which resistance is effective indicated a strong PTI response, fully active by 6 hai.
Clinical features of chronic kidney disease in dogs with the serological presence of Leptospira spp, Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum
Authors: Vázquez-Manzanilla Claire A. , Cárdenas-Marrufo María F. , Gutiérrez-Blanco Eduardo , Jiménez-Coello Matilde , Pech-Sosa Nelly R. , Ortega-Pacheco Antonio
Published: July 2022

To characterize the clinical features of chronic kidney disease in dogs with serological evidence of Leptospira spp. from an endemic region, thirty-three dogs with chronic kidney disease were clinically evaluated from March 2019 to March 2020, all dogs were also serologically tested for Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Seroprevalence for Leptospira spp. was 39.4%. The most frequent serovars found were Pyrogenes, Canicola, Bratislava and Australis with serological titters between 1:100 and 1:800. No DNA was found in the urine. The most frequent clinical signs detected were fever, depression, decreased body condition, vomiting, and hematuria. Significant laboratory findings (p <0.05) were anemia, leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, increased liver enzymes, urea and creatinine, hyperbilirubinemia, and hyperphosphatemia. All leptospira seronegative dogs were positive at one or both monitored homoparasites (i.e. E. canis and A. phagocytophilum); only 3 leptospira seroposive dogs were positive to one or both hemoparasite. Leptospirosis in dogs may be involved in the development of kidney disease, so it should be considered within the battery of clinical analysis, particularly in endemic areas. However, further studies are still required to determine the specific role of the various serovars associated with CKD. Findings also suggests that endemic hemoparasites of dogs should be monitored in dogs with a kidney condition for a better clinical picture of the patients and therapeutic approach.
Simplified Beam-Column Joint Model for RC Moment Resisting Frame
Authors: PARATE KANAK NARENDRA , Kumbhar Onkar , Kumar Ratnesh
Published: July 2022

During strong seismic events, inelastic shear deformation occurs in beam-column joints. Several researchers have provided different joint models to incorporate its inelastic properties in analytical modelling. However, these models require cumbersome calculations and tedious modelling techniques, which are time-consuming thus limit their practical application. To overcome these limitations, a new analytical model has been developed using a rotational spring and rigid links, which incorporates the inelastic shear deformation of the joint. The stiffness properties of the rotational spring element have been assigned in terms of a moment rotation curve developed from the joint shear stress-strain backbone curve. The inelastic joint rotation behaviour has been categorised in three stages viz. cracking, yielding and ultimate. The joint shear stress has been estimated using an analytical model based on the hybrid approach. The strain values corresponding to these damage satges have been evaluated based on the assessment of experimental data. Further, to account for the effect of adjoining beam and column on the joint rotation behavior, a geometry factor has been proposed to modify the stiffness properties of rotational spring. The response of the proposed analytical model has been validated at the component and structural levels. It has been observed that the proposed simplified beam-column joint model effectively emulates the inelastic behaviour of the joint in comparison to the existing models.
‘He was a brilliant student but became mad like his grandfather’: An exploratory investigation on the social perception and stigma against mental health patients in Bangladesh
Authors: Shohel Tunvir Ahamed , Nasrin Nishad , Farjana Fariha , Shovo Taufiq-E-Ahmed , Asha Aisha Rahman , Heme Morsheda Akter , Islam Ashraful , Paul Pranto , Hossain Md. Tanvir
Published: July 2022

Background: Worldwide, mental health issues constitute a substantial threat to the social, economic, and mental wellbeing of people and contribute significantly to many fatalities each year. In Bangladesh, people with mental health issues typically delay contacting health professionals because they rely on traditional or religious healers. Moreover, the situation is exacerbated by a lack of awareness, social stigma and negative perception from families and the community towards sufferers of mental health issues. Therefore, this paper investigates the social perception and stigmatisation of mental health patients and their caregivers in Khulna city of Bangladesh. Methods: Data were collected from university students who had concurring mental health issues and from their closest caregivers who had in-depth knowledge and willingness to take care for the patients. Following the criteria for data collection, eight (8) mental health patients and five (5) caregivers were purposively selected for this research. An unstructured in-depth interview guide was used for the confidential data collection process between November to December 2021, and each interview lasted for, on average, 40-50 minutes. Results: This study used thematic analysis to present the results, and the findings showed that: mental health patients seek both medical and spiritual support to recover. Mental health patients with positive family support improved quicker than those with the opposite. However, negative social perception and stigmatisation are the key impediments for mental health patients and their families to discuss their issues with relatives and communities to get support or to seek remedies. Moreover, the commonality of social stigmas, such as labelling mental health problems equal to ‘madness’, hinders disclosure to family members, peers, and the community.Conclusion and recommendations: In Bangladesh, the majority of mental health patients are stigmatized without receiving emotional support. Hence, we suggest nationwide community-based awareness-building programs to promote positive perceptions against mental-health disorders. Besides, counselling and awareness-building programs for effective prevention against non-scientific remedies, such as spiritual healing; and diagnosis at the primary stage of sickness and medication, are recommended for early detection and better medical assistance.
High-throughput Screening of Plastic Deformable Inorganic Semiconductors
Authors: Hong Jiawang , Ren Qi , Li Yongheng , Gao Ziyan , Deng Jianming , Lun Yingzhuo , Wang Xueyun , Tang Gang
Published: July 2022

Inorganic semiconductors play an important role in fields such as information, sensor, and energy. But most bulk inorganic semiconductors are intrinsically brittle. With the development of smart electronic components like flexible electronic devices, it is urgent to explore plastically deformable inorganic semiconductors. For high-throughput screening of possible candidate materials, a reliable, universal, and convenient factor is needed. In this paper, a simple plastic deformability factor consisting of only elastic constants was proposed, which were examined by the experimentally verified plastic inorganic semiconductors Ag2S and InSe. Through data mining, 612 types of bulk layered materials were selected from more than 40,000 three-dimensional materials, two of which (PbI2 and CuInP2S6) were further experimentally verified, showing the reliability of this factor. This simple factor could be used to rapidly predict the plastic deformability of layered materials and large-scale screening of candidate inorganic materials for next-generation deformable and flexible electronic devices.
Tubulin beta 4B chain is involved in the cell cycle process of mouse spermatogonia through CDK2
Authors: Feng Meiying , Zeng Zifan , Kuang Naisong , Li Shuhui , Lin Jingna , Yu Xianmei , Fu Shuying , Wang Kai
Published: July 2022

Tubb4b (tubulin beta-4b chain) is essential for spermatogonia cell growth and development as a microtubule network protein, and its regulatory mechanism remains to be studied. To deeply understand the role of Tubb4b in spermatogonia cell proliferation and the cell cycle, we studied the role of spermatogonia in the control and TUBB4B-KO groups in different cell cycle phases by flow cytometry. We detected the crucial protein CDK2 in each stage by qRT–PCR and Western blotting. The results showed that under the induction of serum starvation, thymidine, and nocodazole under different conditions, mouse spermatogonia remained in the G0-G1 phase, S phase, and G2-M phase, respectively, and the change in the spermatogonia cycle in the Tubb4b-KO group was slower than that in the control group. In the study of cycle synchronization, it was found that the mRNA level of Cdk2 in the G2-M phase increased significantly (P < 0.001), accompanied by the accumulation of CDK2 protein. In the Tubb4b-KO group, the mRNA level of Cdk2 increased significantly in the G0-G1 phase (P < 0.05), decreased significantly in the S phase (P < 0.05) and was accompanied by the fluctuation of CDK2 protein. These data suggest that Tubb4b has the potential to play an important role during the spermatogonial cell cycle by affecting the fluctuating expression of CDK2.
Ultrasound-driven modification of brewer’s spent grain protein hydrolysates with yeast growth and fermentation-promoting activity
Authors: Li Qing , Chen Moutong , Coldea Teodora Emilia , Yang Huirong , Zhao Haifeng
Published: July 2022

The conformational properties of hydrolysates derived from brewer’s spent grain protein (BSGP) pretreatment with and without ultrasound were investigated, and the effect of BSGP hydrolysates (BSGPH) supplementation on the brewer’s yeast growth and fermentation performances were examined. Results demonstrated that both BSGPH had substantial influences on the biomass, viability, sugar consumption and ethanol production of yeast. Specifically, medium supplemented with hydrolysates derived from BSGP pretreated with ultrasound (UBPH) for 4 h hydrolysis (UBPH-4) increased biomass by 7.7%, viability by 9.78%, sugar consumption by 37.16%, and ethanol yields by 20.20% (v/v), respectively, compared with the blank. UBPH-4 exhibited a looser morphology and disordered secondary structure, with a decrease in α-helix and increased random coil. Meanwhile, a higher proportion of short peptides and hydrophilic amino acids in UBPH-4 might account for its preferred bioactivity. All findings revealed that UBPH were effective nitrogen sources for yeast growth and fermentation.
Design and Realization of Space Deployable Prime Focal Antenna Mechanisms
Authors: Halpati Mitesh , Mehta Manan , Ananthnarayanan Pradeep , Arora Hemant , Shah Dhaval , Joshi Shashikant J.
Published: July 2022

Deep space exploration, radio astronomy interplanetary missions and next-generation telecommunication technology requires high bandwidth data transmission for effective and un-interrupted communication. This leads to the need for launching large sized antenna systems with diameter larger than 3 m. During the launching of satellites, owing to limitations of launch vehicles, the antenna sizes are limited to 3 m. Therefore deployable mechanisms are used to launch large aperture antenna. After the launch vehicle reaches orbit in space, the antenna needs to be deployed, resulting in the transition from mechanism to structure. After deployment, the geometric position of points of the antenna must be within a close tolerance limit, which demands a lot of precision for achieving a perfectly reflective surface. In this paper, a prime focal type of deployable antenna has been developed. The dornier antenna mechanism, triangular prism modular mechanism, tetrahedral modular antenna mechanism, umbrella type radial rib mechanism, and six bar deployment mechanism along with spatial mechanism have been designed for deploying the ribs of the antenna. A detailed kinematic analysis of the umbrella type radial rib and six bar mechanisms has been carried out. The realization of these deployment mechanisms has been performed by fabricating both mechanisms based on the design for manufacturing and design for assembly consideration. The realized antennas are successfully tested in the zero gravity laboratory.
CircSMARCC1 facilitates tumor progression by disrupting the crosstalk between prostate cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages via miR-1322/CCL20/CCR6 signaling
Authors: Xie Tao , Fu Du-jiang , Li Zhi-min , Lv Dao-jun , Song Xian-Lu , Yu Yu-zhong , Wang Chong , Li Kang-jing , Zhai Baoqian , Wu Jiacheng , Feng Ning-Han , Zhao Shan-Chao
Published: July 2022

Background
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been proved to mediate the infiltration of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) to facilitate the carcinogenesis and development of many cancers. However, the regulation of macrophages by circRNAs in prostate cancer (PCa) remains uncertain.
Methods
Differentially expressed circRNAs were identified by RNA sequencing. The expression of CircSMARCC1 was evaluated using fluorescence in situ hybridization and quantitative real-time PCR. The oncogenic roles of circSMARCC1 in PCa tumor proliferation and metastasis were investigated through a series of in vitro and in vivo assays. Finally, Western blot, biotin-labeled RNA pulldown, luciferase assay, rescue experiments, and co-culture experiments with TAMs revealed the underlying mechanism of circSMARCC1.
Results
CircSMARCC1 was dramatically up-regulated in PCa cells, plasma and tissues. Overexpression of circSMARCC1 promotes tumor proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo, whereas knockdown of circSMARCC1 exerts the opposite effect. Mechanistically, circSMARCC1 could regulate the expression of CC-chemokine ligand 20 (CCL20) via sponging miR-1322 and activate PI3K-Akt signaling pathway involved in proliferation and epithelial mesenchymal transformation. More importantly, high expression of circSMARCC1 was positively associated with more CD68 + CD163 + CD206 + TAM tumor microenvironment colonization. In addition, overexpression of circSMARCC1 could promote the expression of CD163 in macrophages through the CCL20-CCR6 axis, induce TAMs infiltration and M2 polarization, thereby leading to PCa progression.
Conclusions
circSMARCC1 up-regulates the chemokine CCL20 secretion by sponging miR-1322, which is involved in crosstalk between tumor cells and TAMs by targeting CCL20/CCR6 signaling to promote progression in PCa.
A continuous-time stochastic Boolean model provides a quantitative description of the budding yeast cell cycle
Authors: Laomettachit Teeraphan , Kraikivski Pavel , Tyson John J.
Published: July 2022

The cell division cycle is regulated by a complex network of interacting genes and proteins. The control system has been modeled in many ways, from qualitative Boolean switching-networks to quantitative differential equations and highly detailed stochastic simulations. Here we develop a continuous-time stochastic model using seven Boolean variables to represent the activities of major regulators of the budding yeast cell cycle plus one continuous variable representing cell growth. The Boolean variables are updated asynchronously by logical rules based on known biochemistry of the cell-cycle control system using Gillespie’s stochastic simulation algorithm. Time and cell size are updated continuously. By simulating a population of yeast cells, we calculate statistical properties of cell cycle progression that can be compared directly to experimental measurements. Perturbations of the normal sequence of events indicate that the cell cycle is 91% robust to random ‘flips’ of the Boolean variables, but 9% of the perturbations induce lethal mistakes in cell cycle progression. In general, this simple, hybrid Boolean model gives a good account of the growth and division of budding yeast cells, suggesting that this modeling approach may be as accurate as detailed reaction-kinetic modeling with considerably less demands on estimating rate constants.
Pain, mood, and suicidal behavior among working adults in Chile
Authors: Vélez Juan Carlos , Kovasala Michael , Collado Michele Demi , Friedman Lauren E. , Juvinao-Quintero Diana , Araya Lisette , Castillo Jessica , Williams Michelle A. , Gelaye Bizu
Published: July 2022

Background
Chronic pain is comorbid with psychiatric disorders, but information on the association of chronic pain with depressive symptoms, generalized anxiety, and suicidal behavior among occupational cohorts is inadequate. We investigated these associations among employed Chilean adults.
Methods
A total of 1,946 working adults were interviewed during their outpatient visit. Pain was assessed using the Short Form McGill Pain questionnaire (SF-MPG) while depression and generalized anxiety were examined using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), respectively. The Columbia–Suicide Severity Rating Scale was used to assess suicidal behavior and suicidal ideation. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for the association of chronic pain with mood disorders, as well as suicidal behavior.
Results
High chronic pain (SF-MPG > 11) was reported by 46% of participants. Approximately two-fifths of the study participants (38.2%) had depression, 23.8% generalized anxiety, 13.4% suicidal ideation, and 2.4% suicidal behavior. Compared to those with low pain (SF-MPG ≤ 11), participants with high chronic pain (SF-MPG > 11) had increased odds of experiencing depression only (aOR = 2.87; 95% CI: 2.21–3.73), generalized anxiety only (aOR = 2.38; 95% CI: 1.42–3.99), and comorbid depression and generalized anxiety (aOR = 6.91; 95% CI: 5.20–9.19). The corresponding aOR (95%CI) for suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior were (aOR = 2.20; 95% CI: 1.58–3.07) and (aOR = 2.18 = 95% CI: 0.99–4.79), respectively.
Conclusions
Chronic pain is associated with increased odds of depression, generalized anxiety, and suicidal behavior. Mental health support and appropriate management of patients experiencing chronic pain are critical.
Multidisciplinary ocular and periocular cancers meetings: implementation in a tertiary referral center and analysis over a 12-months period
Authors: Savino Gustavo , Piccinni Fabrizio , Pagliara Monica Maria , Sammarco Maria Grazia , Caputo Carmela Grazia , Moro Alessandro , Barbera Giorgio , Tagliaferri Luca , Fionda Bruno , Schinzari Giovanni , Rossi Ernesto , Zagaria Luca , Peris Ketty , Stefani Alessandro Di , Musarra Teresa , Cefaro Luca Ausili , Martucci Matia , Blasi Maria Antonietta
Published: July 2022

Purpose
The complexity of multimodal approaches in cancer management and the heterogeneity of oncologic patients have lately led to the establishment of multidisciplinary tumor boards (MDTBs) in different specialties to define targeted, patient-centered treatment strategies, arguably resulting in improved clinical management and prognostic outcomes. However, few data are available regarding the application of this approach in Ocular Oncology. Hereby, the Authors analyze the implementation and outcomes of a trained MDTB in our tertiary ocular oncology referral center.
Methods
A retrospective descriptive analysis of MDTB meetings discussing patient with ocular and periocular cancers, held monthly over a 12-months period, was carried out. Data were grouped by main site involved, topics discussed during meetings and final clinical decisions therefore taken. Meetings were held by a constant ‘Core team’ or – when required in specific cases – by a broader ‘Extended team’.
Results
During the observational period 86 cases were discussed. In 27 patients ocular surface was involved (31%), in 25 patients orbital tissues (29%), in 22 patients eyelids (26%), and in 12 patients intraocular tissues (14%). Considering topics presented, in 13 cases (15%) naïve or referred new patients and in 34 cases (40%) imaging or histopathologic reports were discussed; in 39 cases (45%) treatment planning was discussed. Regarding final decisions, a treatment plan was scheduled in 47 cases (55%) and a diagnostic ascertainment was requested in 27 patients (31%); locally advanced and/or systemic diseases were referred or teamed up with other specialists in 12 cases (14%).
Conclusions
Ocular Oncology multidisciplinary team, by sharing expertise of different specialists, ensures a comprehensive evaluation of patients improving the accuracy of diagnosis and staging upon which planning a proper treatment. Further studies are needed to assess if this approach may also improve the outcomes and prognosis of patients with ocular cancers.
Incidence and clinical outcome of primary carcinomas of the major salivary glands: 10-year data from a population-based state cancer registry in Germany
Authors: Nachtsheim Lisa , Mayer Marcel , Meyer Moritz , Oesterling Florian , Kajueter Hiltraud , Arolt Christoph , Quaas Alexander , Klussmann Jens Peter , Wolber Philipp
Published: July 2022

Purpose: The aim of this project was to provide an overview of the epidemiology of primary salivary gland carcinomas (SGC) in terms of incidence, distribution of clinicopathological features and survival in one of the largest cancer registries in Europe. Methods: Data were collected from patients with SGC of the major salivary glands registered in the population-based state cancer registry (Landeskrebsregister LKR) in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Germany from 01/01/2009 – 12/31/2018. Age standardization of incidence was performed and relative survival estimates were computed by sex, histological group, age group and T-, N-, and M-Stage. Results: A total of 1,680 patients were included in this analysis. The most frequent tumor localization was the parotid gland (78 %). Adenocarcinoma (not otherwise specified) was the most common tumor entity (18.5 %). Most tumors were found in stage T1-T3 (29 % T1; 29 % T2; 28 % T3). The age-adjusted incidence rate (ASR) for SGC was 0.65/100,000 and remained stable during the observation period. There was an age-dependent incidence increasing especially from the age 70 years and onwards. The overall 5-year relative survival (RS) for all patients with SGC was 69.2 %. RS was 80-95.6 % for T1-2 stage tumors, 60.3 % for T3, 47.3 % for T4 stage, 87.4 % for N0 and 51.2 % for N1-2, 74.4 % for M0 and 44.9 % for M1. Conclusion: Age-adjusted incidence for SGC has been stable for the observed 10-year period. Smaller tumors and those without lymph node or distant metastases had a better RS than more advanced tumors.
Brazilian Protected Areas on Twitter: A 10-year Overview
Authors: Souza Carolina Neves , Almeida João A. G. R. , Correia Ricardo A. , Ladle Richard J. , Carvalho Adriana Rosa , Malhado Ana C. M.
Published: July 2022

Social media platforms are a valuable source of data for investigating cultural and political trends related to the public interest in nature and conservation. Here, we use the micro-blogging social network Twitter to explore trends in public interest in Brazilian protected areas (PAs). We identified ~400,000 Portuguese language tweets pertaining to all categories of Brazilian PAs over a ten-year period (1 January 2011 - 31 December 2020). We analyzed the content of these tweets and metrics of their engagement to uncover patterns and drivers of public engagement with Brazilian PAs. Our results indicate a steep growth in tweets mentioning protected areas, especially from 2016 onwards. Nevertheless, public interest was not evenly distributed across PAs: while national parks generated the most tweets, mainly related to tourism activities, tweets related to conflicts among park users and managers were more likely to engage Twitter users. Our study clearly highlights that automatic or semi-automatic monitoring of social media content and engagement has great potential as an early warning system to identify emerging conflicts and to generate data and metrics to support environmental policy and management at the level of individual PAs or PA networks.
AI based Optimization of EV Control based on Fractional Order PID Controller and Meta-Heuristic Techniques
Authors: Aboshosha Ashraf , Hamed Hisham. A.
Published: July 2022

Within the next decades the Electric Vehicle (EV) will dominate the cars market, may be before 2040, where all countries will cope with the zero emissions policy of international institutions to reduce the destructive influence of the climate change. The EVs are simpler in construction and control compared with the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. EV’s speed is the most important factors to be controlled and optimized. Throughout this research article the Fractional Order PID (FOPID) controller has been used to regulate the speed of the EV while meta-heuristic techniques (AEFA, AEO, SMA, GOA, AND WCA) are used to optimize the performance of the EV using Brush Less Direct Motor (BLDC).
Characteristics and Prognosis of Patients with Edwardsiella tarda Bacteremia at a Single Institution, Japan, 2005-2022
Authors: Hasegawa Kohei , Kenya Murata , Suzuki Kumiko , Ogawa Yoshihiko
Published: July 2022

Purpose
Edwardsiella tarda is an Enterobacteriaceae isolated from freshwater and sea that can cause bacteremia in humans. However, only a few studies have described its clinical features; therefore, we conducted a case review in our hospital.
Methods
We conducted a single-center, retrospective descriptive study using electronic medical records. Patient and microbial features were extracted and evaluated for 30-day and 90-day mortality rates.
Results
From April 2005 to April 2022, the total number of positive blood cultures was 9368, 38 of which were E. tarda. Underlying cancer was observed in 65.8% of patients. The most common source of bacteremia was cholangitis, followed by cholecystitis, and endoscopic or surgical drainage was performed in almost all cases. Diarrhea was observed in only one patient, and there were no cases in which gastroenteritis was the source of bacteremia. Except in one case, almost all β-lactams, such as ampicillin, were susceptible. The 30-day and 90-day overall mortality rates were 8.6% and 17.2%, respectively, with only two infection-related deaths occurring within 30 days. Most patients die of cancer progression after successful E. tarda bacteremia (ETB) treatment.
Conclusion
Biliary tract infections are common in ETB cases, whereas gastroenteritis may be an atypical cause of bacteremia. This study shows ETB to have a better prognosis than in previous reports, possibly because adequate source control procedures were performed at our institution. ETB may occur in patients with unfavorable underlying conditions, such as advanced cancer.
Rhabdoid type squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck is a rare variant of squamous cell carcinoma: Immunohistochemical and genetic analyses for the expression of E-cadherin and CDH1
Authors: Kusafuka Kimihide , Yamada Hidetaka , Ishino Keiko , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Kubota Aki , Murakami Akinori , Muramatsu Aya , Arai Kazumori , Sugimura Haruhiko , Suzuki Makoto
Published: July 2022

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the head and neck is one of the most common types of cancer. SCC of the head and neck with rhabdoid features has been previously reported and is extremely rare. Case Presentation: We extracted rhabdoid SCC (RSCC) cases from the pathology files of our institution from 2000 to 2020. Three cases of RSCC were extracted, including cases 1, 2 and 3, investigating a 71-year-old male (hypopharynx), a 59-year-old male (oropharynx), and a 69-year-old female (lower gingiva), respectively. Histology analyses in all cases showed a diffuse proliferation of less-/non-cohesive, large, ovoid cells with eccentric nuclei. The immunohistochemical analysis in all cases indicated carcinoma cells were positive for both pan-cytokeratin (CK) and vimentin in all cases. Cases 1 and 2 showed no or decreased E-cadherin expression, respectively. Case 1 showed no expression of β-catenin, whereas Case 2 showed cytoplasmic localization of β-catenin. Genetic analyses of cases 1and 2 showed no mutations of CDH1. RSCC was diagnosed in these cases. This subtype was accompanied by conventional SCC in cases 1 and 3, whereas it originally showed histologic similarities with case 2. Conclusion: RSCC might be arise from the conventional SCC, which is considered a kind of high-grade transformation, and such morphogenesis is associated with no or aberrant E-cadherin expression, as well as with the co-expression of CK and vimentin.
Epidemiological characterization and outcomes of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a third level of attention hospital in Honduras: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alas-Pineda César , Aguilar-Andino David , Marín-Reyes Mariela , España-Guevara Kelsy , Romero-Madrid Jorge Luis , Gaitán-Zambrano Kristhel , Bejarano-Cáceres Suyapa , Martínez-Beckerat Roxana
Published: July 2022

Background: ALL is the most common malignancy in children representing 75-80% of acute leukemia in pediatric patients. Due to advances in ALL management and treatment, the survival rate in industrialized countries has improved to approximately 90% in recent years. However, in low and middle-income nations overall survival is lower. This study aims to describe the sociodemographic and disease characteristics of Honduran pediatric population throughout the initial diagnosis and treatment, and their respective outcomes. Methods: An observational, retrospective, cohort was carried out. A total of 240 clinical records of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia diagnosis were enrolled, at the Hospital Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas between January 2016 and December 2020. Descriptive statistics were used, frequencies and percentages of categorical variables were obtained, and the median and interquarterly ranges of quantitative variables were worked on. Results: 54,8% were male. The median age at diagnosis is 5 years old. The 60,2% came from an urban area. The 85,8% were classified as precursor B-cell, 9,1% as T cell, 2,7% as undetermined B cell, and 0,9% B cell. 63,5% were classified as high risk. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that the adequate classification of patients allows to provide a timely therapeutic management, it is necessary to generate protocols focused on improving the prognosis and decreasing the high mortality rates.
Analysis of aroma in freshly squeezed strawberry juice during cold storage by E-nose, HS-SPME-GC-MS and GC-IMS
Authors: Zhang Jing-wen , Pan Lei-qing , Tu Kang
Published: July 2022

“Hong Yan” (HY) and “Xiao Bai” (XB) strawberries were planted widely in Jiangsu province. Aroma profile affecting the economic value of HY and XB freshly squeezed juice during cold storage (4 ± 1 ºC) is unclear. Thus, flavor of “Hong Yan” (HY) and “Xiao Bai” (XB) strawberry freshly squeezed juice were studied by electronic nose (E-nose), headspace solid phase micro extraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) and headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) during storage at 4 ± 1 ºC. HY and XB freshly squeezed juice could be distinguished by principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) in E-nose analysis during cold storage. 17 and 21 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in HY and XB freshly squeezed juice at different storage time were detected by HS-SPME-GC-MS, while 50 VOCs in both by GC-IMS, including esters, aldehydes, ketones and alcohols. Characteristic VOCs were identified as hexanal, methylpropanal, 5-methyl-furfural, 2-furfural, benzy alcohol, 1-hexanol, 2,6 dimethyl-4-heptanone and dipropyl disulfide in HY freshly squeezed juice, while hexyl acetate, ethyl 3-methylbutyrate, propyl hexanoate, octanal, (E)-2-octenal and 2-furfural in XB freshly squeezed juice. Results from this study advanced the understanding of VOCs in HY and XB freshly squeezed strawberry juice and could provide the basis for the in-depth research on the flavor characteristic of freshly squeezed strawberry juice.
IRAK2 contributes to triple-negative breast cancer growth via NF-κB, ERK and stress-related signaling pathways
Authors: Ferraro Francesca , Steinle Anja , Narasimhan Harini , Bleilevens Andreas , Braunschweig Till , Stickeler Elmar , Maurer Jochen
Published: July 2022

PurposeWe previously screened kinases whose depletion elicited a differentiation response of the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line MDA-MB-468. In particular, we demonstrated that the downregulation of the kinases ERN1 and ALPK1 affected cellular proliferation, self-renewal and tumor-forming capacity. Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 2 (IRAK2) was identified in the screening and IRAK2 is highly enriched in our established breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) isolated from human tumors of TNBC. Therefore, we wondered if IRAK2 depletion could affect BCSCs growth. MethodsWe downregulated IRAK2 in BCSCs and MDA-MB-468 by lentivirus-mediated shRNA targeting and assessed the effects of the knockdown evaluating keratins expression, cellular proliferation and self-renewal capacity. We injected the cells into the mammary glands of mice to evaluate the impact of IRAK2 knockdown on their tumor-forming capacity. We investigated the expression of genes belonging to IRAK2 pathway and related to cancer proliferation, UPR, autophagy and apoptosis in presence of IRAK2 downregulation. We performed transcriptome analysis to have an overview of the pathways affected by the knockdown. Results Cells characterized by IRAK2 downregulation exhibited decreased proliferation, sphere-forming capacity and delayed tumor formation. IRAK2 knockdown impaired NF-κB and ERK phosphorylation, IL-6 and cyclin D1 expression. Moreover, IRAK2 downregulation mitigated ERN1 signalling and autophagy, pathways adopted by cells to manage stress conditions, and induced apoptosis.ConclusionWe showed that IRAK2 contributes to TNBC tumorigenicity and its knockdown compromises cellular ability to sustain aggressive growth and to endure cellular stress. Therefore we suggest IRAK2 as a promising target for the impairment of TNBC.
Validation of dynamic [18F]FE-PE2I PET for estimation of relative regional cerebral blood flow – a comparison with [15O]H2O PET
Authors: Mo Susanna Jakobson , Axelsson Jan , Stiernman Lars , Riklund Katrine
Published: July 2022

Background
Dopamine transporter (DAT) imaging is used in the diagnostic work-up in suspected parkinsonian syndromes and dementia with Lewy-bodies but cannot differentiate between these syndromes, and an extra brain imaging examination of the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) or glucose metabolism is often needed for differential diagnosis. The requirement of two different imaging examinations is resource consuming and inconvenient for the patients. Therefore, a dual-phase imaging concept, i.e. imaging of both cortical blood flow and DAT imaging with the same radiotracer would be more convenient and cost-effective. The aim of this study was to test whether relative regional cerebral blood flow (rCBFR) can be measured with the DAT specific positron emission tomography (PET) tracer [18F]FE-PE2I (FE-PE2I), by validation with cerebral perfusion measured with [15O]H2O PET (H2O).
Methods
The linear relationship and intraclass correlation (ICC) between rCBFR measured with FE-PE2I (R1) and H2O (F) was tested in image data derived from 29 patients with recent onset parkinsonism and 29 healthy controls. The R1 was calculated using the simplified reference tissue model, and F was calculated with a modified Koopman double-integration method.
Results
There was a strong linear correlation between R1 and F in the frontal, parietal, temporal, cingulate and occipital cortex as well as in the striatum (r ≥ 0.705–0.920, p < 0.001) with a good to excellent ICC, ranging from 0.716 to 0.942 (p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Our results suggest that FE-PE2I may be used as a proxy for cerebral perfusion, thus potentially serve as a radiotracer for assessment of both DAT availability and rCBFR in one single dynamic scan. This could be valuable in the differential diagnosis of parkinsonian syndromes.
Supporting Syringe Services Programs in the Initiation & Scale-Up of Vaccine Administration— Findings from In-depth Interviews
Authors: Carry Monique G. , Bixler Danae , Weng Mark K. , Doshani Mona , Roberts Emma , Montgomery Martha P.
Published: July 2022

Background Persons who inject drugs (PWID) are at increased risk for several vaccine-preventable diseases. However, vaccination rates among this population remain low. While syringe services programs (SSPs) are places where PWID feel comfortable accessing services, few offer vaccination services. This study describes facilitators and barriers to vaccination at SSPs.MethodsWe used convenience sampling to conduct in-depth interviews with 21 SSPs in the United States from June-August 2021. Interview questions asked SSPs about their perceptions, priorities, barriers, facilitators, and the effects of partnerships and policies on vaccine administration.ResultsEight (n=8) SSPs offered vaccinations, and thirteen (n=13) did not offer vaccinations. Most SSPs believed offering vaccination services was important, although addressing SSP participants’ immediate needs often took precedence. Staffing, physical space and logistical issues were the most common barriers to vaccine administration reported by SSPs, followed by SSP participant-related barriers. Facilitators of vaccine administration included access to a tracking system, partnering with agencies or other organizations providing vaccines, and having a licensed vaccination provider on-site. Partnerships provided SSPs opportunities to expand capacity but could also restrict how SSPs operate. Recommended policy changes to facilitate vaccine administration included subsidizing the cost of vaccinations and addressing restrictions around who could administer vaccinations. ConclusionsIncreasing the availability of vaccination services at SSPs requires addressing the varying capacity needs of SSPs, such as tracking systems, licensed vaccinators, and free or low-cost vaccination supplies. While these needs can be met through partnerships and supportive policies, both must consider and reflect cultural competence around the lived experiences of PWID.
Near-digital amplification in paper improves sensitivity and speed in biplexed reactions
Authors: Shah Kamal G. , Kumar Sujatha , Yager Paul
Published: July 2022

The simplest point-of-care assays are usually paper and plastic devices that detect proteins or nucleic acids at low cost and minimal user steps, albeit with poor limits of detection. Digital assays improve limits of detection and analyte quantification by splitting a sample across many wells (or droplets), preventing diffusion, and performing analyte amplification and detection in multiple small wells. However, truly digital nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) require costly consumable cartridges that are precisely manufactured, aligned, and operated to enable low detection limits. In this section, we demonstrate how to implement near-digital NAATs in low-cost porous media while approaching the low limits of detection of digital assays. The near-digital NAAT was enabled by a paper membrane containing lyophilized amplification reagents that automatically, passively meters and distributes a sample over a wide area. Performing a NAAT in the paper membrane while allowing diffusion captures many of the benefits of digital NAATs if the pad is imaged at a high spatial resolution during amplification. We show that the near-digital NAAT is compatible with a low-cost paper and plastic disposable cartridge coupled to a 2-layer rigid printed circuit board heater (the MD NAAT platform). We also demonstrate compatibility with biplexing and imaging with mobile phones with different camera sensors. Limits of detection for biplexed reactions were 316 copies of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus genomic DNA in 20.5 minutes of amplification time despite the presence of 105 copies of co-amplifying internal amplification control DNA. These results suggest that near-digital NAATs in paper improve the sensitivity and speed, even in biplexed reactions.
Investigating Students’ Perceptions Towards Artificial Intelligence in Medical Education
Authors: Buabbas Ali Jasem , Miskin Brouj Amer , Ayed Adel Khudar , Alnaqi Ammar Ali , Shehab Abrar Abdulmohsen , Safar Maryam Ali
Published: July 2022

Objective: Implementing a reform in medical education requires students’ awareness regarding the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern medicine practice. This study aimed to investigate students’ perceptions towards AI in medical education.Subject and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June 2021 until November 2021, using an online questionnaire to collect data from medical students in the faculty of medicine at Kuwait University.Results: The response rate was 51.0%, with a sample size of 352. The majority agreed that AI will play an important role in healthcare (349 (99.1%)). More than half of the students understood the basic principles of AI; and 329 (93.4%) students showed comfortability with AI terminology. Many students (329 (83.5%)) believed that learning about AI benefits their careers, and 289 (82.1%) believed that medical students should receive AI teaching.Conclusion: The study reveals students had positive perceptions towards AI. The role of AI in the future of medicine is significant. AI-dominated medical practice is required, and AI will not displace doctors but will create new roles.
Outcomes of a Near-peer Intern Orientation Boot Camp
Authors: Alhusain Rashid , Saini Astha , Minhas Hersimren , Ahmed Ahmed K. , Bishop Patrick , Osman Baraa , Khan Hajra , Adam Omeralfaroug , Weinberger Jarrett J. , Levine Diane L.
Published: July 2022

Background: Interns experience challenges in their transition from medical school to residency. Orientation is traditionally delivered by faculty and administrators and often does not address the intern’s daily duties.Objectives: Address traditional orientation gaps and improve incoming interns’ experience.Methods: We identified opportunities with our intern orientation using a quality improvement methodology. Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) cycle 1 consisted of a pilot boot camp. PDSA cycle 2 was conducted over two weeks, June 9-23, 2021, at the Detroit Medical Center, in Detroit, MI. Participation was voluntary. Residents were assigned incoming interns on a 1:1 basis. Five virtual sessions were conducted addressing: daily workflow, documentation, presentation skills, and utilization of the Electronic Health Records (EHR). All participants received pre- and post-program surveys.Results: 22 rising second-year and third-year residents (26%) and 22 incoming interns (58%) participated. There was a significant improvement in the understanding of daily workflow (mean improved by 0.957, p=0.003), and most tasks associated with EHR including comfort with the sign-out process (mean improved by 1.21; p=0.002), accessing specific team lists (mean improved by 1.75, p=0.001), writing orders (mean improved by 1.41; p=0.002), composing documentation (mean improved by 1.23; p=0.001). Writing notes improved significantly (mean improved by 0.52; p=0.04). Nearly all (93.2%) stated the program effectively achieved its overall goals and believed (92.9%) the program should be continued for each incoming class of interns.Conclusion: A targeted orientation boot camp led by near peers positively impacted the intern experience improving understanding of day-to-day responsibilities and comfort utilizing the electronic health record.
Prognostic Identifier of Cerebrovascular Complications in Tuberculous Meningitis: Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tomidy Julianto , Satriadinatha Gede Bagus Yoga , Liwang Filbert Kurnia , Maharani Kartika , Imran Darma , Estiasari Riwanti
Published: July 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to find predictors of stroke in patients with tuberculous meningitis.Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis were done using literature searches through online databases up to April 30th, 2022. Three independent authors performed literature screening, data extraction, and critical appraisal of the studies. Eight studies involving 1535 samples were included.Results: We analyzed data regarding demographic, comorbidity, clinical presentation, radiologic, and laboratory parameters. Overall, clinical presentation that showed outcome difference was found in patients with findings of vomiting (OR = 2.71, 95% CI: 1.30-5.63), cranial nerve deficit (OR = 4.10, 95% CI: 1.83-9.21), focal deficit (OR = 5.56, 95% CI: 2.24-13.79), and altered consciousness (OR = 1.90, 95% CI: 1.24-2.92). Some comorbidities showed significant differences such as diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.51-4.41), hypertension (OR = 5.73, 95% CI: 3.36-9.77), ischemic heart disease (OR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.02-4.63), and smoking (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.22-5.77). Two radiological changes shown to have significantly higher proportions are hydrocephalus (OR = 2.50, 95% CI: 1.74-3.58) and meningeal enhancements (OR = 3.99, 95% CI: 1.73-9.20).Conclusion: Our analysis indicated that clinical presentations of vomiting, cranial nerve deficit, focal deficit, altered consciousness; comorbidity of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, smoking history, ischemic heart disease; and radiological findings of meningeal enhancement and hydrocephalus showed significant association with stroke incidence in tuberculous meningitis.