bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between Mycoplasma pneumoniae drug resistance and clinical characteristics in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of children with refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Zhan Xiao-Wen , Deng Li-Ping , Wang Zhi-Yuan , Zhang Ju , Wang Meng-Zhu , Li Shu-Jun
Published: November 2022

Background

To investigate the resistance-gene mutation of Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) and the clinical characteristics of refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP) correlation.

Methods

Forty-eight children with MPP were selected and placed in RMPP and non-RMPP groups based on their clinical status – whether they had worsening clinical symptoms, persistent fever and a worsening lung image. They were also separated into drug-resistance gene mutation and non-mutated groups using nucleic acid detection. The participants’ data were collected on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and MP-DNA loads, fever time, hospitalisation time, macrolide antibiotic application time and fever regression time after application. The differences in imaging manifestations were determined by using multivariate logistic regression to analyse the clinical characteristics of RMPP. Additionally, the correlation between drug-resistance gene mutations and the clinical characteristics of RMPP was summarised.

Results

Among the 48 MPP children, 31 (64.6%) had A2063G and/or A2064G gene mutation, 31 (64.6%) had RMPP and 23 (74.2%) had drug-resistance gene mutation. The children in the drug-resistance gene mutation group had higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and MP-DNA loads, longer fever time, hospitalisation time, macrolide antibiotic application time, fever regression time after application and extrapulmonary complications. There were more symptoms and more severe changes under bronchoscopy. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Logistic multivariate regression analysis showed that the mutation of drug-resistance genes had no significant correlation with RMPP.

Conclusion

The mutation rate of drug-resistance genes in children with MPP is high, the inflammatory index and MP-DNA load are high, the course of the disease is long, and the changes under bronchoscopy are severe. The occurrence of RMPP is not only determined by drug-resistance genes but may also be the result of a combination of factors.
Maternal and neonatal exposure to risk factors for neonates with moderate or severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Yiran , Luo Shuying , Wang Kaijuan , Hou Yuwei , Yan Hui , Zhang Yaodong
Published: November 2022

Background

To investigate the association between maternal and neonatal exposure to the relevant influencing factors and risk of moderate or severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and the possible interactions in the Chinese population.

Methods

A cross-sectional study comprising 228 neonates from Henan Children’s Hospital during the five-year period 2015–2020 in China was conducted. All neonatal basic demographic information and clinical records were documented from the neonatal HIE database. Comparisons between mild HIE and moderate or severe HIE were conducted with the t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables and the Chi-square test for categorical variables. Unconditional multiple logistic regression models were used to generate the odds ratios(ORs) and 95% confidence intervals(CIs). In addition, we also used an additive model to test for possible biological interactions among the factors.

Results

Of the 228 neonates, the males had a statistically significantly higher frequency compared with the females between the two groups (P = 0.030). Trend analysis results found that with the decreased of the neonatal birth weight, the detection rates of moderate or severe HIE in males and females were gradually increased (Ptrend < 0.05). The detection of moderate or severe HIE in males and females increased with the decreased of neonatal gestational age at birth(Ptrend < 0.05). However, no interaction was detected between neonatal birth weight and gestational age at birth based on the additive model, the Relative Excess Risk of Interaction and 95% CI was 0.821(-0.046,1.687). The adjusted multiple logistic regression model showed that low birth weight(ORadj:1.965, 95%CI:1.086–4.127),premature infant(ORadj:1.557, 95%CI:1.589–4.862),1-min Apgar’s score < 7(ORadj:5.618, 95%CI:3.724–7.353),intrauterine distress(ORadj:4.916, 95%CI:3.431–7.398),amniotic fluid contamination (ORadj:3.965, 95%CI:2.153–5.782) significantly increased the risk of neonatal moderate or severe HIE.

Conclusion

Neonates with low birth weight, premature infant,1-min Apgar’s score < 7, intrauterine distress, amniotic fluid contamination are risk factors for moderate or severe HIE. Notably, we found no biological interaction between risk factors based on the additive model, these findings may help to inform prevention strategies, as this may effectively reduce the incidence of neonatal moderate or severe HIE.
Effectiveness of intensive perioperative nutrition therapy among adults undergoing gastrointestinal and oncological surgery in a public hospital: study protocol for a pragmatic randomized control trial
Authors: A’zim A’ishah Zafirah Abdul , Zaid Zalina Abu , Yusof Barakatun Nisak Mohd , Jabar Mohd Faisal , Shahar Aainaa Syarfa Mohd
Published: November 2022

Background

Perioperative malnutrition is common in patients undergoing gastrointestinal-oncology surgery and is associated with longer hospital stays, increased postoperative complications, poorer quality of life, and lower survival rates. Current practice emphasizes the role of early perioperative nutrition therapy as an early intervention to combat the postoperative complications of patients and the implementation is now widely adopted. However, there is still a lack of research on determining the effectiveness of intensive nutrition therapy and providing ONS perioperative locally. This becomes the significance of this study and serves as a basis for management and guideline in the local hospital settings.

Methods

This is a pragmatic randomized control trial study where elective admitted patients will be randomly divided into the intervention (SS) or control (NN) group. All data will be collected during a face-to-face interview, anthropometric measurement, blood sampling (albumin, white blood count, hemoglobin, and c-reactive protein), handgrip strength, and postoperative complications. Group SS will be receiving a tailored lifestyle and intensively supplemented with oral nutrition support as compared to Group NN that will receive standard medical care. The primary outcome for this study is the length of stay in the hospital. Additional outcome measures are changes in biochemical profile and nutritional and functional status. The effects of intervention between groups on the outcome parameters will be analyzed by using the SPSS General Linear Model (GLM) for the repeated measure procedure.

Discussion

The intervention implemented in this study will serve as baseline data in providing appropriate nutritional management in patients undergoing gastrointestinal and oncological surgery.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Protocol Registration and Results System (PRS) NCT04347772. Registered on 20 November 2019.
Dimensional changes of peri-implant tissue following immediate flapless implant placement and provisionalization with or without xenograft in the anterior maxilla: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: MeshkatAlsadat Mehrnoush , Hassani Ali , Bitaraf Tahereh , Salmasi Salar Chaychi
Published: November 2022

Background

Dental implant therapy requires the preservation of peri-implant tissue in the cosmetic zone. Various surgical procedures have been presented, including ridge preservation, flapless method, and quick provisionalization. The goal of this research was to assess the buccal bone dimensional changes following immediate flapless implant implantation in the front maxilla, with or without xenografting.

Method and design

Thirty patients who meet the inclusion criteria and have maxillary teeth (numbers 14 to 24) are candidates for the immediate implant with immediate provisionalization. Participants will be assigned randomly to one of two groups: (1) an immediate implant with xenograft and (2) an immediate implant without bone grafting. For 3 months, the temporary prosthesis will be installed shortly before the final restoration. Following temporary prosthesis insertion and 6 months after surgery, a CBCT radiograph will be used to examine bone tissue. Soft tissue will be assessed at three points: baseline, 3 months, and 6 months following implant therapy. Patients’ satisfaction, implant failure, prosthesis failure, and complications will be assessed as secondary outcomes after 6 months.

Discussion

The outcomes of this randomized clinical research will show if buccal bone augmentation with xenograft reduces vertical bone and gingiva recession. The findings and patient-reported outcomes will aid in the selection of therapy alternatives for implant treatment patients.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20211119053106N1. Registered on 6 December 2021 and Open Science Framework (OSF) on May 20, 2022. Registration DOI https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/VUGFQ.
The effect of “moderately restricted carbohydrate” diet on gut microbiota composition and metabolic parameters in women with metabolic syndrome: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Mohammad , Ejtahed Hanieh-Sadat , Malmir Hanieh , Siadat Seyed Davar , Hasani-Ranjbar Shirin , Larijani Bagher , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad
Published: November 2022

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of risk factors that increase the risk of death and a variety of chronic diseases. Recent studies have indicated that the imbalance of gut microbiota might contribute to development and progression of metabolic syndrome. Carbohydrate restriction in the diet has been proven to be one of the most effective methods in the management of metabolic syndrome, even in the absence of weight loss. However, no study has examined the effects of a carbohydrate-restricted diet on gut microbiota composition in metabolic syndrome patients. Thus, we will examine the effects of a “moderately restricted carbohydrate (MRC)” diet on gut microbiota, insulin resistance, and components of MetS among Iranian women. In addition, the stability of changes in dependent variables, including gut microbiota, will also be assessed.

Methods

This is a parallel randomized clinical trial in which 70 overweight or obese women aged 20–50 years with MetS will be randomly assigned to receive either MRC diet (42–45% carbohydrate, 35–40% fats) or a normal weight loss (NWL) diet (52–55% carbohydrate, 25–30% fats) for 3 months. Protein accounted for 15–17% of total energy in both diets. The quantity of gut microbiota including Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes,Bifidobacteria,Lactobacillus,Clostridium,Prevotella,Bacteroidetes, andAkkermansia muciniphila, as well as anthropometric, blood pressure, and metabolic parameters will be measured at study baseline and the end of trail. At the end of this phase, all participants will be placed on a weight maintenance diet for an additional 6 months. After following up study subjects in this duration, all dependent variables will be examined again to assess their stability over this period.

Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of a moderately restricted carbohydrate diet on gut microbiota composition and several metabolic parameters during the weight loss and maintenance phases in women with MetS.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (www.irct.ir, IRCT20210307050621N1). Registered on May 31, 2021.
Polyol–mediated synthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles through aqueous sol–gel route
Authors: Zahra Samreen , Shahid Waneeza , Amin Chaudhry Athar , Zahra Sarwat , Kanwal Bushra
Published: November 2022

Background

In this work, nickel oxide nanoparticles were prepared by polyol mediated aqueous route of sol–gel process using nickel nitrate hexahydrate as precursor, a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water as solvent and glycerol for making polyol medium followed by calcination at various temperatures ranging from 500 to 900 °C. Characterization was carried out using X–ray diffractometry, infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry-thermogravimetry and field emission scanning electron microscopy.

Results

The results confirmed the formation of face-cantered cubic structure of nickel oxide with its complete conversion after calcination at 900 °C; significant variation in the surface morphology was observed with the increasing calcination temperature.

Conclusions

The study revealed that the aqueous sol–gel route using polyol system followed by calcination at ambient temperatures lead to the successful synthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles.
Overexpression of a novel gene (Pt2015) endows the commercial diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum high lipid content and grazing resistance
Authors: Gao Shan , Zhou Lu , Yang Wenting , Wang Lijun , Liu Xuehua , Gong Yingchun , Hu Qiang , Wang Guangce
Published: November 2022

Background

The marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum is a commercially viable species due to its bioactive substances and lipid productivity. Increasing attention has been paid to the isolation or genetic modification of species or strains with a rapid growth rate and large quantities of lipids. Furthermore, contamination of microzooplankton has been one of the major constraints in P. tricornutum large-scale cultivation, which adversely affects growth and greatly impedes the course of biomass production industrialization.

Results

Here, based on our previous transcriptomics of P. tricornutum, we found a novel gene (ID: 7202015, hereafter called Pt2015) which affects morphotype of P. tricornutum. Pt2015 protein is located in the plastid, which is highly homologous to part of the sequences of exosome component. The morphotype of the Pt2015 knockout strain (termed 2015KO) using CRISPR/Cas9 method is fusiform, but the Pt2015 overexpression strain (termed oeT) demonstrates a majority triradiate morphotype (approximately 95%) which is stable and has been cultured for more than 200 generations. In addition, the oeT strain demonstrated a similar growth rate to the WT and simultaneously accumulated larger lipids droplets that increased by approximately 30% compared to that of the WT. More importantly, the grazing rate of the amoebae cultured in the oeT strain significantly decreased in comparison with that cultured in WT, suggesting that the oeT can effectively avoid being eaten by microzooplankton.

Conclusions

Therefore, the oeT strain not only improves our understanding of morphotype conversion in diatoms but also demonstrates potential applications for large-scale cultivation of P. tricornutum.
TAK1-inhibitors did not reduce disease burden in a Vκ*MYC model of multiple myeloma
Authors: Håland Erling , Moen Ingrid Nyhus , Vandsemb Esten N. , Starheim Kristian K.
Published: November 2022

Objective

Multiple myeloma is a haematological malignancy characterized by proliferation of monoclonal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Development of resistance and minimal residual disease remain challenging in the treatment of multiple myeloma. Transforming growth factor-β activated kinase 1 (TAK1) has recently gained attention as a potential drug target in multiple myeloma. This study aimed at determining the in vivo effects of TAK1-inhibitors in a Vκ*MYC multiple myeloma mouse model.

Results

We treated mice carrying Vκ*MYC multiple myeloma cells with the TAK1-inhibitors 5Z-7-oxozeaenol and NG25. There were tendencies towards increased survival for both inhibitors, but only NG25 prolonged survival significantly. However, this effect was limited, and no differences in disease burden were observed for any of the treatments. In conclusion, although TAK1-inhibitors might prolong survival somewhat, they do not prevent disease in the Vκ*MYC mouse model of multiple myeloma.
Deep learning image reconstruction algorithm for carotid dual-energy computed tomography angiography: evaluation of image quality and diagnostic performance
Authors: Jiang Chenyu , Jin Dan , Liu Zhuoheng , Zhang Yan , Ni Ming , Yuan Huishu
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To evaluate image quality and diagnostic performance of carotid dual-energy computed tomography angiography (DECTA) using deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) compared with images using adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-Veo (ASIR-V).

Methods

Carotid DECTA datasets of 28 consecutive patients were reconstructed at 50 keV using DLIR at low, medium, and high levels (DLIR-L, DLIR-M, and DLIR-H) and 80% ASIR-V algorithms. Mean attenuation, image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) at different levels of arteries were measured and calculated. Image quality for noise and texture, depiction of arteries, and diagnostic performance toward carotid plaques were assessed subjectively by two radiologists. Quantitative and qualitative parameters were compared between the ASIR-V, DLIR-L, DLIR-M, and DLIR-H groups.

Results

The image noise at aorta and common carotid artery, SNR, and CNR at all level arteries of DLIR-H images were significantly higher than those of ASIR-V images (p = 0.000–0.040). The quantitative analysis of DLIR-L and DLIR-M showed comparable denoise capability with ASIR-V. The overall image quality (p = 0.000) and image noise (p = 0.000–0.014) were significantly better in the DLIR-M and DLIR-H images. The image texture was improved by DLR at all level compared to ASIR-V images (p = 0.000–0.008). Depictions of head and neck arteries and diagnostic performance were comparable between four groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with 80% ASIR-V, we recommend DLIR-H for clinical carotid DECTA reconstruction, which can significantly improve the image quality of carotid DECTA at 50 keV but maintain a desirable diagnostic performance and arterial depiction.
Accuracy and applicability of dual-energy computed tomography in quantifying vertebral bone marrow adipose tissue compared with magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Liu Zhenghua , Huang Dageng , Zhang Yuting , Chang Rong , Zhang Xiaoyue , Jiang Yonghong , Ma Xiaowen
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the accuracy of dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in quantifying bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) and its applicability in the study of osteoporosis (OP).

Methods

A total of 83 patients with low back pain (59.77 ± 7.46 years, 30 males) were enrolled. All patients underwent lumbar DECT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning within 48 h, and the vertebral fat fraction (FF) was quantitatively measured, recorded as DECT-FF and MRI-FF. A standard quantitative computed tomography (QCT) phantom was positioned under the waist during DECT procedure to realize the quantization of bone mineral density (BMD). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland–Altman method was used to evaluate the agreement between DECT-FF and MRI-FF. The Pearson test was used to study the correlation between DECT-FF, MRI-FF, and BMD. With BMD as a gold standard, the diagnostic efficacy of DECT-FF and MRI-FF in different OP degrees was compared by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and DeLong test.

Results

The values of DECT-FF and MRI-FF agreed well (ICC = 0.918). DECT-FF and MRI-FF correlated with BMD, with r values of −0.660 and −0.669, respectively (p < 0.05). In the diagnosis of OP and osteopenia, the areas under curve (AUC) of DECT-FF was, respectively, 0.791 and 0.710, and that of MRI-FF was 0.807 and 0.708, and there was no significant difference between AUCs of two FF values (with Z values of 0.503 and 0.066, all p > 0.05).

Conclusion

DECT can accurately quantify the BMAT of vertebrae and has the same applicability as MRI in the study of OP.
Right-sided colopleural fistula secondary to diverticular disease: a case report
Authors: Hassan Summer , Singh Primal
Published: November 2022

Background

Colopleural fistulas are mostly left-sided and related to trauma, Crohn’s disease, or gastrointestinal malignancy. However, a diverticular fistula between the colon and right pleural space has not been reported and is rare considering the liver forms a natural anatomical barrier on this side. Colopleural fistulas often present with respiratory symptoms ranging from mild cough and dyspnea to sepsis from empyema caused by the leakage of gastrointestinal content into the pleural space. Although colopleural fistulas are rare, maintaining low suspicion is pivotal for timely investigation and appropriate surgical planning, particularly in the context of previous intra-abdominal infections or trauma.

Case presentation

A 67-year-old Chinese male presenting with prolonged respiratory symptoms was found to have a right-sided colopleural fistula confirmed by computed tomography imaging and a colonoscopy. It was addressed surgically after multidisciplinary consensus was reached, with a right hemicolectomy and repair of the diaphragmatic defect. The patient recovered remarkably well with resolution of respiratory symptoms.

Conclusion

Appropriate work-up of a suspected colopleural fistula with radiological and endoscopic investigations to determine anatomy and etiology is crucial. Most cases will require surgical management, and involvement of the respiratory and cardiothoracic teams is important to optimize lung function preoperatively and plan for possible chest complications.
A woman with recurrent umbilical bleeding: a case report
Authors: Kim Yong-hun , Wegehaupt Abigail K. , Wingo Majken T.
Published: November 2022

Background

Umbilical discharge in an adult is rare and generates broad diagnostic considerations. Umbilical anatomy is variable owing to congenital abnormalities and acquired pathology such as umbilical hernias. The umbilicus can be a site of primary or metastatic malignancy or endometriosis.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old white American woman came to the clinic with a 2-day history of spontaneous umbilical bleeding. She reported periumbilical pain associated with nausea and emesis. There were no visible skin abnormalities, but deep palpation of the abdomen produced a thin, watery, serosanguineous fluid from the umbilicus. She experienced a similar episode of umbilical bleeding 5 years prior without clear cause. Laboratory workup was notable for mildly elevated C-reactive protein . Computed tomography imaging revealed a fat-containing umbilical hernia with fat necrosis, necessitating complete surgical resection of the umbilicus.

Conclusions

Umbilical hernia with fat necrosis is a rare condition that should be considered in adults with umbilical discharge. Additional diagnostic considerations in adults with spontaneous umbilical bleeding/discharge include embryonal remnants, omphalitis, and metastasis. If the cause is not readily apparent on physical exam, imaging with computed tomography should be considered to assess for hernia and embryonal anomalies.
Anti-inflammatory effects of the prostaglandin D2/prostaglandin DP1 receptor and lipocalin-type prostaglandin D2 synthase/prostaglandin D2 pathways in bacteria-induced bovine endometrial tissue
Authors: Wu Jindi , Bai Fan , Mao Wei , Liu Bo , Yang Xiaolin , Zhang Jing , Li Tingting , Borjigin Gerelt , Cao Jinshan
Published: November 2022

Dairy cows often develop different degrees of endometritis after calving and this is attributed to pathogenic bacterial infections such as by Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Infection of the bovine endometrium causes tissue damage and increases the expression of prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), which exerts anti-inflammatory effects on lung inflammation. However, the roles of PGD2 and its DP1 receptor in endometritis in cows remain unclear. Here, we examined the anti-inflammatory roles of the lipocalin-type prostaglandin D2 synthase (L-PGDS)/PGD2 and DP1 receptor regulatory pathways in bovine endometritis. We evaluated the regulatory effects of PGD2 on inflammation and tissue damage in E. coli- and S. aureus-infected bovine endometrial cells cultured in vitro. We found that the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α as well as expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, platelet-activating factor receptor (PAFR), and high mobility group box (HMGB)-1 were suppressed after DP1 receptor agonist treatment. In contrast, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α release and MMP-2, PAFR, and HMGB-1 expression levels were increased after treatment of bovine endometrial tissue with DP1 receptor antagonists. DP1-induced anti-inflammatory effects were dependent on cellular signal transduction. The L-PGDS/PGD2 pathway and DP1 receptor induced anti-inflammatory effects in bovine endometrium infected with S. aureus and E. coli by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-κB signalling pathways, thereby reducing tissue damage. Overall, our findings provide important insights into the pathophysiological roles of PGD2 in bovine endometritis and establish a theoretical basis for applying prostaglandins or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for treating endometrial inflammatory infertility in bovines.
KbvR mutant of Klebsiella pneumoniae affects the synthesis of type 1 fimbriae and provides protection to mice as a live attenuated vaccine
Authors: Zhang Fusheng , Meng Yan , Xu Li , Tian Yujiao , Lu Huigai , Xie Jichen , Ma Renhui , Li Moran , Li Bei
Published: November 2022

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a leading cause of severe infections in humans and animals, and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains highlights the need to develop effective vaccines for preventing such infections. Live attenuated vaccines are attractive vaccine candidates available in the veterinary field. We recently characterized that the K. pneumoniae kbvR (Klebsiella biofilm and virulence regulator) mutant was a highly attenuated strain in the mice model. In the present study, the characterization, safety, and protective efficacy of ΔkbvR strain as a live attenuated vaccine were evaluated. The synthesis and activity of type 1 fimbriae were increased in the ΔkbvR strain. All mice inoculated by the subcutaneous route with 105, 106, and 107 colony-forming units (CFU) doses of the ΔkbvR strain survived. Subcutaneous immunization with two doses of 105 or 107 CFU ΔkbvR elicited a robust humoral immune response, and provided protection against the following K. pneumoniae intraperitoneal infection. The antisera of mice immunized with 105 CFU dose improved the opsonophagocytic ability and complement-mediated lysis not only to the same serotype strain but also to the different serotype strain. The passive transfer of antisera from 105 CFU dose-immunized mice provided protection against K. pneumoniae infection. Overall, our results suggest the great potential of the ΔkbvR strain as a novel vaccine candidate against K. pneumoniae infections in herds or humans.
Current situation and future direction of Newcastle disease vaccines
Authors: Hu Zenglei , He Xiaozheng , Deng Jing , Hu Jiao , Liu Xiufan
Published: November 2022

Newcastle disease (ND) is one of the most economically devastating infectious diseases affecting the poultry industry. Virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV) can cause high mortality and severe tissue lesions in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, reproductive and immune systems of poultry. Tremendous progress has been made in preventing morbidity and mortality caused by ND based on strict biosecurity and wide vaccine application. In recent decades, the continual evolution of NDV has resulted in a total of twenty genotypes, and genetic variation may be associated with disease outbreaks in vaccinated chickens. In some countries, the administration of genotype-matched novel vaccines in poultry successfully suppresses the circulation of virulent NDV strains in the field. However, virulent NDV is still endemic in many regions of the world, especially in low- and middle-income countries, impacting the livelihood of millions of people dependent on poultry for food. In ND-endemic countries, although vaccination is implemented for disease control, the lack of genotype-matched vaccines that can reduce virus infection and transmission as well as the inadequate administration of vaccines in the field undermines the effectiveness of vaccination. Dissection of the profiles of existing ND vaccines is fundamental for establishing proper vaccination regimes and developing next-generation vaccines. Therefore, in this article, we provide a broad review of commercial and experimental ND vaccines and promising new platforms for the development of next-generation vaccines.
Transcriptome profiling of Paraburkholderia aromaticivorans AR20-38 during ferulic acid bioconversion
Authors: Poyntner Caroline , Ludwikowski Thomas Marek , Wagner Andreas Otto , Margesin Rosa
Published: November 2022

The importance and need of renewable-based, sustainable feedstocks increased in recent years. Lignin-derived monomers have high potential, energetic and economic value in the microbial bioconversion to valuable biomolecules. The bacterium Paraburkholderia aromaticivorans AR20-38 produces a remarkable yield of vanillic acid from ferulic acid at moderate and low temperatures and is therefore a good candidate for biotechnological applications. To understand this bioconversion process on a molecular level, a transcriptomic study during the bioconversion process was conducted to elucidate gene expression patterns. Differentially expressed genes, cellular transporters as well as transcriptional factors involved in the bioconversion process could be described. Additional enzymes known for xenobiotic degradation were differentially expressed and a potential membrane vesicle mechanism was detected. The bioconversion mechanism on a transcriptional level of P. aromaticivorans could be elucidated and results can be used for strain optimization. Additionally, the transcriptome study showed the high potential of the strain for other degradation applications.
Time delay estimation method based on generalized logarithmic hyperbolic secant function in impulsive noise
Authors: Dou Yuzi , Abdelrhman Omer M. , Li Sen
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a generalized logarithmic hyperbolic secant (GLHS) function is introduced that can effectively suppress impulsive noise while guarding the signal of interest from damage. Also, an analysis of the optimal scaling parameter choices for the GLHS function was studied. Then, in order to address the performance drawbacks of the traditional time delay estimation methods based on correlation under an impulsive noise environment, a novel GLHS-based correlation (GLHSC) is further developed, and the reliable time delay estimation result is obtained by finding the peak of GLHSC. The comprehensive Monte Carlo simulation results demonstrate that the performance of the method based on GLHSC is better than other robust competitive methods based on correlation in terms of probability of resolution and estimation accuracy, especially in a heavy-tailed noise environment.
Signal processing in passive radar with multi-user MIMO-OFDM signal
Authors: Lyu Xiaoyong , Liu Baojin , Fan Wenbing
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we propose a signal processing method in passive radar using the multi-user (MU) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signal as the illuminator of opportunity. The MU-MIMO-OFDM modulation is adopted in the fifth-generation (5G) communication. We consider the scenario where multiple mobile users share the same time–frequency resources but separate spatially in different beams formed a prior by the MU-MIMO transmitter antenna array, which is a quite general case in realistic 5G communication. A beam-by-beam matched filter is proposed for weak target sensing. Interference suppression is also discussed. The interference in this scenario is more complicated than that in the traditional passive radar. In the MU-MIMO communication system, the base station (BS) transmits multiple signals to different beam regions simultaneously for the communication between the BS and mobile users. For a specific beam region where the radar receiver is located, the interference consists of not only the direct and multipath interference (DMI) of the signal transmitted by the BS to this beam region, but also the inter-user interference (IUI) from the other beam regions. The DMI and IUI degrade the weak target detection capability significantly. In this paper, we propose a suppression method for jointly eliminating the DMI and IUI. Simulations verify the effectiveness of these methods.
Developing hybrid car-to-car communication system based on MIMO visible light and radio frequency
Authors: Okasha Nermeen M. , Zekry Abdel Halem A. , Newagy Fatma A.
Published: November 2022

This paper combines the advantages of both VLC communication and RF communication for car-to-car applications to achieve a higher data rate, more range coverage, smaller delay, and smaller BER. In the proposed scheme, the VLC maximum communication distance is chosen as 100 m per-hop approximately, which can be extended through multi-hop up to the timeout window of 5 hops. In contrast, the RF maximum communication distance is chosen as 200 m per-hop approximately, which is reasonable at the frequency band of 70 GHz to 90 GHz due to the high attenuation at this frequency band. A MATLAB simulation for a car-to-car framework is built to demonstrate and compare the BER, throughput, and delay outcomes at a hybrid VLC and RF communication. Our results show that VLC can achieve up to four times of the RF throughput while maintaining low BER of 10−6and small delay of 10−4with respect to RF communication only.
Numerical ranges and complex symmetric operators in semi-inner-product spaces
Authors: An Il Ju , Heo Jaeseong
Published: November 2022

We introduce the numerical range of a bounded linear operator on a semi-inner-product space. We compute the numerical ranges of some operators on $\ell _{2}^{p}(\mathbb{C})$

ℓ
2
p

(
C
)
$(1\le p < \infty )$
(
1
≤
p
<
∞
)
and show that the numerical range of the backward shift on an infinite-dimensional space $\ell ^{p}$

ℓ
p

is the open unit disc. We define a conjugation and a complex symmetric operator on a semi-inner-product space and discuss complex symmetry in the dual space. We prove some properties of a generalized adjoint of a complex symmetric operator. We also show that the numerical range of the complex conjugation on $\ell _{n}^{p}$

ℓ
n
p

$(n \ge 2)$
(
n
≥
2
)
is the closed unit disc. Finally, we discuss the sequentially essential numerical ranges of operators on a semi-inner-product space.
The development and initial validation of the Russian version of the BASIS-24
Authors: Madden Lynn M. , Farnum Scott O. , Bromberg Daniel J. , Barry Declan T. , Mazhnaya Alyona , Fomenko Tetiana , Meteliuk Anna , Marcus Ruthanne , Rozanova Julia , Poklad Iurii , Dvoriak Sergii , Altice Frederick L.
Published: November 2022

Background

Efficient and linguistically appropriate instruments are needed to assess response to addiction treatment, including severity of addiction/mental health status. This is critical for Russian-speaking persons in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) where Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) remain underscaled to address expanding and intertwined opioid, HIV, HCV and tuberculosis epidemics. We developed and conducted a pilot validation of a Russian version of the 24-item Behavior and Symptom Identification Scale (BASIS-24), an addiction/mental health severity instrument with six subscales, previously validated in English.

Methods

Using the Mapi approach, we reviewed, translated, and back-translated the content to Russian, pilot-tested the Russian-version (BASIS-24-R) among new MOUD patients in Ukraine (N = 283). For a subset of patients (n = 44), test-rest was performed 48 h after admission to reassess reliability of BASIS-24-R. Exploratory principal component analysis (PCA) assessed underlying structure of BASIS-24-R.

Results

Cronbach alpha coefficients for overall BASIS-24-R and 5 subscales exceeded 0.65; coefficient for Relationship subscale was 0.42. The Pearson correlation coefficients for overall score and all subscales on the BASIS-24-R exceeded 0.8. Each item loaded onto factors that corresponded with English BASIS-24 subscales ≥ 0.4 in PCA.

Conclusion

Initial version of BASIS-24-R appears statistically valid in Russian. Use of the BASIS-24-R has potential to guide MOUD treatment delivery in the EECA region and help to align addiction treatment with HIV prevention goals in a region where HIV is concentrated in people who inject opioids and where healthcare professionals have not traditionally perceived MOUD as effective treatment, particularly for those with mental health co-morbidities.
Escherichia coli methionine-tRNAi/methionyl tRNA synthetase pairs induced protein initiation of interest (PII) expression
Authors: Kim Jung Min , Lee Han Yong , Jung Jinho
Published: November 2022

The precise regulatory role in protein synthesis by facilitating interactions with mRNA codons for various tRNA modifications is unclear. We previously reported that enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) reduced enhanced GFP mRNA expression in human methionine-conjugated initiator tRNA (tRNAi)/tRNA synthetase pairs under methionine-deficient conditions. Here, we investigated the effect of non-formylated methionine-conjugated Escherichia coli tRNAi on the synthesis of the protein initiation of interest (PII) in HeLa cells under intracellular L-methionine levels. We found that E. coli methionine-tRNAi counteracts human methionine-tRNAi, indicating that E. coli methionyl tRNA synthetase can induce enhanced GFP expression due to increased stability of enhanced GFP mRNA. Both complexes could support translation initiation without being employed to introduce methionine residues in the subsequent elongation steps. The results indicated that E. coli methionine-tRNAi could offset human methionine-tRNAi, and E. coli methionine-tRNAi/methionyl tRNA synthetase pairs can drive enhanced GFP mRNA expression. Unlike the human methionine-tRNAi/methionyl tRNA synthetase pairs that were used as a positive control, the non-formylated E. coli methionine-tRNAi/methionyl tRNA synthetase pairs reduced the expression of enhanced GFP mRNA, resulting in reduced HeLa cell survival. Using tRNAs functions causes of heterologous origin, such as from prokaryotes, and modified, to enhance or suppress the synthesis of specific proteins in eukaryotic organisms into the potential may possess a more prominent advantage of E. coli methionine-tRNAi as approaches that can control PII. This study provides new insights on the E. coli methionine- tRNAi/methionyl tRNA synthetase pair induced PII synthesis and the relative viability of cells could pave the way to regulate ecological/biological systems.
Dual role of brain-derived extracellular vesicles in dementia-related neurodegenerative disorders: cargo of disease spreading signals and diagnostic-therapeutic molecules
Authors: Natale Francesca , Fusco Salvatore , Grassi Claudio
Published: November 2022

Neurodegenerative disorders are one of the most common causes of disability and represent 6.3% of the global burden of disease. Among them, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases cause cognitive decline, representing the most disabling symptom on both personal and social levels. The molecular mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of dementia are still poorly understood, and include secretory factors potentially affecting differentiated neurons, glial cells and neural stem cell niche. In the last decade, much attention has been devoted to exosomes as novel carriers of information exchanged among both neighbouring and distant cells. These vesicles can be generated and internalized by different brain cells including neurons, neural stem cells, astrocytes, and microglia, thereby affecting neural plasticity and cognitive functions in physiological and pathological conditions. Here, we review data on the roles of exosomes as carriers of bioactive molecules potentially involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders and detectable in biological fluids as biomarkers of dementia. We also discuss the experimental evidence of the therapeutic potential of stem cell-derived vesicles in experimental models of neurodegeneration-dependent cognitive decline.
Optimal control strategies of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron supported by invasive and dynamic models
Authors: Rui Jia , Zheng Jin-Xin , Chen Jin , Wei Hongjie , Yu Shanshan , Zhao Zeyu , Wang Xin-Yi , Chen Mu-Xin , Xia Shang , Zhou Ying , Chen Tianmu , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: November 2022

Background

There is a raising concern of a higher infectious Omicron BA.2 variant and the latest BA.4, BA.5 variant, made it more difficult in the mitigation process against COVID-19 pandemic. Our study aimed to find optimal control strategies by transmission of dynamic model from novel invasion theory.

Methods

Based on the public data sources from January 31 to May 31, 2022, in four cities (Nanjing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Suzhou) of China. We segmented the theoretical curves into five phases based on the concept of biological invasion. Then, a spatial autocorrelation analysis was carried out by detecting the clustering of the studied areas. After that, we choose a mathematical model of COVID-19 based on system dynamics methodology to simulate numerous intervention measures scenarios. Finally, we have used publicly available migration data to calculate spillover risk.

Results

Epidemics in Shanghai and Shenzhen has gone through the entire invasion phases, whereas Nanjing and Suzhou were all ended in the establishment phase. The results indicated that Rt value and public health and social measures (PHSM)-index of the epidemics were a negative correlation in all cities, except Shenzhen. The intervention has come into effect in different phases of invasion in all studied cities. Until the May 31, most of the spillover risk in Shanghai remained above the spillover risk threshold (18.81–303.84) and the actual number of the spillovers (0.94–74.98) was also increasing along with the time. Shenzhen reported Omicron cases that was only above the spillover risk threshold (17.92) at the phase of outbreak, consistent with an actual partial spillover. In Nanjing and Suzhou, the actual number of reported cases did not exceed the spillover alert value.

Conclusions

Biological invasion is positioned to contribute substantively to understanding the drivers and mechanisms of the COVID-19 spread and outbreaks. After evaluating the spillover risk of cities at each invasion phase, we found the dynamic zero-COVID strategy implemented in four cities successfully curb the disease epidemic peak of the Omicron variant, which was highly correlated to the way to perform public health and social measures in the early phases right after the invasion of the virus.

Graphical Abstract
Skill profiles of Japanese English learners and reasons for uneven patterns
Authors: Koizumi Rie , Agawa Toshie , Asano Keiko , In’nami Yo
Published: November 2022

Background

Variations in the skill profiles of learners have become an important research area in recent years. However, there is a lack of empirical research on this topic in Japan. We conducted three studies to address this gap.

Methods

Study 1 investigated the characteristics of the flat and uneven skill profiles of Japanese learners of English using 10 datasets from five standardized four-skill second-language English proficiency tests. Studies 2 and 3 examined the reasons behind learners having these uneven profiles using a convergent mixed-methods approach (Creswell & Plano Clark, Designing and conducting mixed methods research, 2018) that consisted of a questionnaire and an interview, respectively.

Results

The results of Study 1 suggested that a flat profile is uncommon, and that various types of uneven profiles exist across datasets. The most frequently observed uneven profiles were as follows: (a) listening, speaking, and writing are lower than reading (LSW<R); (b) speaking and writing are lower than listening and reading (SW<LR); and (c) speaking is lower than the other three skills (S<LRW). The results of Studies 2 and 3 suggested three key reasons, namely, (a) insufficient practice, (b) particular subskills or processes required to accomplish test tasks, and (c) unfamiliarity with test formats and test-taking environments.

Conclusions

The results demonstrated the importance of considering uneven skill profiles in L2 research and practice. These results have implications for test development, admission, placement, and pedagogy. For example, skill profile information can benefit admission and placement officers when they make a decision and can aid teachers and administrators in planning remedial instructions.
Repetitive mild TBI causes pTau aggregation in nigra without altering preexisting fibril induced Parkinson’s-like pathology burden
Authors: Delic Vedad , Karp Joshua H. , Guzman Maynard , Arismendi Gabriel R. , Stalnaker Katherine J. , Burton Julia A. , Murray Kathleen E. , Stamos Joshua P. , Beck Kevin D. , Sokratian Arpine , West Andrew B. , Citron Bruce A.
Published: November 2022

Population studies have shown that traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with an increased risk for Parkinson’s disease (PD) and among U.S. Veterans with a history of TBI this risk is 56% higher. The most common type of TBI is mild (mTBI) and often occurs repeatedly among athletes, military personnel, and victims of domestic violence. PD is classically characterized by deficits in fine motor movement control resulting from progressive neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) midbrain region. This neurodegeneration is preceded by the predictable spread of characteristic alpha synuclein (αSyn) protein inclusions. Whether repetitive mTBI (r-mTBI) can nucleate PD pathology or accelerate prodromal PD pathology remains unknown. To answer this question, an injury device was constructed to deliver a surgery-free r-mTBI to rats and human-like PD pathology was induced by intracranial injection of recombinant αSyn preformed fibrils. At the 3-month endpoint, the r-mTBI caused encephalomalacia throughout the brain reminiscent of neuroimaging findings in patients with a history of mTBI, accompanied by astrocyte expansion and microglial activation. The pathology associated most closely with PD, which includes dopaminergic neurodegeneration in the SNpc and Lewy body-like αSyn inclusion burden in the surviving neurons, was not produced de novo by r-mTBI nor was the fibril induced preexisting pathology accelerated. r-mTBI did however cause aggregation of phosphorylated Tau (pTau) protein in nigra of rats with and without preexisting PD-like pathology. pTau aggregation was also found to colocalize with PFF induced αSyn pathology without r-mTBI. These findings suggest that r-mTBI induced pTau aggregate deposition in dopaminergic neurons may create an environment conducive to αSyn pathology nucleation and may add to preexisting proteinaceous aggregate burden.