bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Killing Two Birds in One Stone-Percutaneous Treatment of a Large ASD and Pulmonary Stenosis in the Same Setting in an Adult Patient-a Case Report.
Authors: Munde Kalyan S. , Jalkote Shrishail Kumar , Niari Jayakrishna
Published: November 2023

Pulmonary stenosis (PS) associated with a huge ostium secundum Atrial septal defect (ASD) is relatively uncommon. In such condition, a significant left-to-right shunt across ASD is prevented by significant obstruction at pulmonary valve level and hence it protects the pulmonary bed until adulthood. Transcatheter intervention is the treatment of choice when they occur separately but when they occur together, ideal treatment option is not clear. As per literature, percutaneous transcatheter pulmonary valvuloplasty was performed first, followed by transcatheter closure of the secundum atrial septal defect. We report a case of combined ASD (Atrial septal defect) with moderate PS (Pulmonary stenosis), where we performed percutaneous BPV.

(Balloon Pulmonary Valvuloplasty) with Inoue balloon first followed by transcatheter ASD device closure in the same setting.
Effect of Foliar Application of Salicylic Acid and Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) on Growth and Yield Parameters of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)
Authors: Yadav Rakesh , Bahadur Raj , Singh Saurabh , Shahi Shikha , Kumar Vinai , Kumar Neeraj
Published: November 2023

The present study aimed to investigate “Effect of foliar application of Salicylic acid and Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) on growth and yield parameters of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)”. This research was conducted during the kharif season 2018 at the Student Instructional Farm (SIF) of Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology in Kumarganj, Ayodhya. The experiment followed a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and involved seven treatments. The Mungbean variety used in the study was Narendra Mung-1 (NDM-1). Seven treatments as comprised of T1 - control (distilled water spray at 30 & 40 DAS), T2 - foliar spray of SA @ 50 ppm at 30 DAS, T3 - foliar spray of SA @ 80 ppm at 30 DAS, T4 - foliar spray of NAA @ 50 ppm at 30 DAS, T5 - foliar spray of NAA @ 80 ppm at 30 DAS, T6 - foliar spray of NAA @ 50 ppm at 40 DAS, T7 – Foliar spray of NAA @ 80 ppm at 40 DAS. The results indicated that the treatment T5 (foliar application of NAA @ 80 ppm at 30 DAS) showed significant increase on growth parameters like plant height (cm), total number of branch plant-1, total dry biomass (g) plant-1 and yield & yield attributes like number of pods clusters-1, number of pods plant-1, pod length (cm), number of seeds plant-1, number of seeds pod-1with T5, followed by T7 treatment (foliar application of NAA @ 80 ppm at 40 DAS), respectively over the control.
Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on NPK Content of Kasuri Methi (Trigonella corniculata L.) CV. – Pusa Kasuri
Authors: Dongre Palak , Gupta Prashant K. , Sharma Avinash , Dangi Jagat Pratap Singh , Chouhan Namrata
Published: November 2023

The study was carried out at the Research field, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Gwalior M.P. during rabi 2021-22. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the plant in terms of various parameters such as nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium content in herb and grain. The results of the study indicated that the application of organic manures and bio fertilizers improved the nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium content in herb and grain. The highest nitrogen (1.53% and 3.35%), phosphorous (0.43% and 0.56%) and potassium (0.46% and 0.57%) were observed in the plants treated with FYM (16 t/ha) + Vermicompost (4 t/ha) + Rhizobium (10 ml/kg seed) + PSB (10 ml/kg seed) + KSB (10 ml/kg seed) as compared with control.
Climate Change in Kenya: Understanding Major Threats and Government Policies for Resilience
Authors: Mushitsi Patrick , San Nay Min , Nsabimana Aurore Shania
Published: November 2023

This article aims to describe and highlight major climate threats found in Kenya and climate change policy implemented by the government of Kenya from 2010 to 2022. Climate change poses a severe threat to the living conditions of citizens and wildlife worldwide. Numerous studies have demonstrated that in the absence of implemented policies, living conditions can be further deteriorated.

While Africa may not contribute significantly to air pollution, there are other human activities that pollute the environment and need to be eliminated, as African people are already suffering from the impacts of climate change. African countries must take necessary steps to initiate sustainable development policies that ensure a better life for their citizens.

In the case of Kenya, droughts and floods have resulted in the loss of human and animal lives and have negatively impacted the country's economy. Consequently, the government has implemented necessary measures since 2010 to address the issue of climate change.

Various policies such as the National Climate Change Response Strategy (2010), the National Environment Policy (2013), Kenya National Adaptation Plan 2015-2030, Climate Change Bill (2014), National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP 2013-2017), National Climate Change Action Plan (2018-2022), and National Drought Management Authority (2016) have been enacted in response to climate change. These policies demonstrate the government's genuine concern for climate change issues. Overall, this study aims to contribute to the understanding of climate change policy in Kenya and raise awareness about the global threat posed by climate change.
The Role of Forests in Combating Climate Change and Promoting Sustainable Development: An Integrative Review
Authors: Swetha B. S.  , Prabhakar Itigi , Veeresh
Published: November 2023

Plantation forestry plays a vital role in combating climate change and promoting sustainable development by providing renewable resources, sequestering carbon, and supporting economic growth. This review examines the contributions of plantation forestry to climate change mitigation, including carbon sequestration and substitution effects, as well as the challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. We explore key aspects such as genetic diversity, pest and disease management, soil conservation, social dimensions, and emerging technologies. By assessing the current state of plantation forestry and identifying future directions, this review highlights the importance of plantation forestry in addressing global environmental challenges while fostering sustainable development.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient and Weed Management of French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Chaubey Shivam , Singh Anil Kumar , Singh Harivansh , Chaturvedi V. D. , Singh Vivek Kumar
Published: November 2023

An experiment on “Effect of integrated nutrient and weed management of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)” was carried out during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 in Rabi season at the college research farm of T. D. Post Graduate College, Jaunpur, UP. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with five weed management treatments and four nutrient management treatments with three replications. Herbicides viz., pre-emergence (Pendimethalin) and post emergence (Quizalofop-ethyl & Imazethapyr) and two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS under weed management with an objective to study the effect of pre and post-emergence herbicides under integrated nutrient management on weed flora and their growth in French bean. This investigation recorded minimum weed density, weed dry weight and significantly higher results received that plant growth in terms of plant height (cm), number of branches plant-1, dry matter production plant-1, LAI, grain and straw yield and biological yield under two hand weeding (20 & 40 DAS) plots. Among the herbicide’s application, Imazethapyr @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 at 20 DAS was significantly superior to all the other herbicide application treatments and nutrient application was recorded with 100% RDF which was significantly superior to all the other nutrient management treatments during both the years of experimentation.
Update Research of TCM -for – COVID-19
Authors: Ning Du , Jing Liu , Furong Zheng , Jiao Fuyong , Shixia Liang
Published: November 2023

Objective: To explore the role of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of COVID-19.
Methods: By consulting the relevant literature, to find out the relevant studies of TCM treatment of COVID-19. We refer to the existing domestic articles for analysis and find that TCM plays a crucial role in the treatment of COVID-19. It has been recognized in the world. Many countries took the lead in treating COVID-19, and their novel coronavirus control is more effective than other way-s.
Results: Clinical practice has shown that TCM is an important means of treatment for COVID-19. Chinese acupuncture, cupping, massage, and Chinese medicine are all crucial to the treatment of COVID-19, achieving accurate identification, timely diagnosis, symptomatic treatment, and reduction of complications.
Conclusion: TCM has better-effects in the from COVID-19 because of its arrangement and regulation effect.
Mortality due to non-AIDS-defining cancers among people living with HIV in Spain over 18 years of follow-up
Authors: Suárez-García I. , Gutierrez Félix , Pérez-Molina José A. , Moreno Santiago , Aldamiz Teresa , Valencia Ortega Eulalia , Curran Adrián , Gutiérrez González Sara , Asensi Víctor , Amador Prous Concha , Jarrin Inma , Rava Marta ,   CoRIS
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Our aim was to describe non-AIDS-defining cancer (NADC) mortality among people living with HIV (PLWH), to compare it with that of the general population, and to assess potential risk factors.

Methods

We included antiretroviral-naive PLWH from the multicentre CoRIS cohort (2004–2021). We estimated mortality rates and standardised mortality ratios (SMRs). We used cause-specific Cox models to identify risk factors.

Results

Among 17,978 PLWH, NADC caused 21% of all deaths observed during the follow-up. Mortality rate due to NADC was 1.58 (95%CI 1.36, 1.83) × 1000 person-years and lung and liver were the most frequent cancer-related causes of death. PLWH had 79% excess NADC mortality risk compared to the general population with the highest SMR found for Hodgkin lymphoma, anal and liver cancers. The SMRs decreased with age and were the highest in age groups under 50 years. The most important prognostic factor was low CD4 count, followed by smoking, viral hepatitis and HIV transmission through heterosexual contact or injection drug use.

Conclusion

Non-AIDS cancers are an important cause of death among PLWH. The excess mortality related to certain malignancies and the association with immunodeficiency, smoking, and coinfections highlights the need for early detection and treatment of cancer in this population.
Comparison of intra-operative outcomes following internal fixation with trochanteric stabilisation plate or intramedullary nail in intertrochanteric fractures
Authors: Geetala Rahul , Wakefield Edward , Bradshaw Florence , Zhang James , Krkovic Matija
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Intertrochanteric fractures can be classified as stable (AO-OTA 31-A1) or unstable (AO-OTA 31-A2/3). For A3 fractures there is no recommended treatment, often fixed with either an intramedullary nail (IMN) or a dynamic hip screw and trochanteric stabilisation plate (DHS/TSP). This study retrospectively reviews peri-operative outcomes of patients treated with either fixator.

Methods

Pre-operative demographics, operative information and patient outcome data from 213 patients who suffered intertrochanteric fractures and were treated with either DHS/TSP or IMN at a major trauma centre from 01/2015 to 01/2022 was collected. Unpaired T tests were performed to assess levels of significance between peri-operative outcomes.

Results

The mean age for DHS/TSP-treated patients was 2.63 years greater than IMN-treated (P = 0.039). There were no other significant differences in pre-operative characteristics. We found a significantly shorter mean operative time in the DHS/TSP group (88.05 min, 95% CI: 82.1–94.0) compared to IMN counterparts (100.8 min, 95% CI: 92.7–109.0, P = 0.012), but no statistically significant difference in length of hospital stay or patient mortality, blood transfusion, re-operation or complication rates. When A3 fractures were analysed, a statistically significant greater proportion of IMN patients required blood transfusions (DHS/TSP: 35.90%, IMN: 65.00%, P = 0.0093). All other factors were found to have no significant differences.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence to support the national guidelines regarding A1 fractures and suggests that DHS/TSP is a valid alternative to the IMN in A3 intertrochanteric fractures, with reduced blood loss. With the flexibility to add the TSP intraoperatively to prevent femoral head medialisation, and cheaper implant costs, the DHS/TSP may become the preferred method of internal fixation.
Unveiling the anticancer potentiality of single cell oils produced by marine oleaginous Paradendryphiella sp. under optimized economic growth conditions
Authors: El-Shall Hadeel , Abu‑Serie Marwa , Abu-Elreesh Gadallah , Eltarahony Marwa
Published: November 2023

Bioprospecting about new marine oleaginous fungi that produce advantageous bioproducts in a green sustainable process is the key of blue bioeconomy. Herein, the marine Paradendryphiella sp. was utilized for single cell oils (SCOs) production economically, via central composite design, the lipid content enhanced 2.2-fold by 5.5 g/L lipid yeild on seawater-based media supplemented with molasses concentration 50 g/L, yeast extract, 2.25 g/L at initial pH value (5.3) and 8 days of static incubation. Subsequently, the fatty acid methyl esters profiles of SCOs produced on optimized media under different abiotic conditions were determined; signifying qualitative and quantitative variations. Interestingly, the psychrophilic-prolonged incubation increased the unsaturation level of fatty acids to 59.34%, while ω-6 and ω-3 contents representing 23.53% and 0.67% respectively. Remarkably, it exhibited the highest EC100 dose by 677.03 µg/mL on normal human lung fibroblast Wi-38 cells. Meanwhile, it showed the highest inhibiting proliferation potential on cancer cell lines of A549, MDA-MB 231 and HepG-2 cells by 372.37, 417.48 and 365.00 µg/mL, respectively. Besides, it elevated the oxidative stress, the expression of key apoptotic genes and suppressed the expression of key oncogenes (NF-κB, BCL2 and cyclin D); implying its promising efficacy in cancer treatment as adjuvant drug. This study denoted the lipogenesis capacity of Paradendryphiella sp. under acidic/alkaline and psychrophilic/mesophilic conditions. Hereby attaining efficient and economic process under seasonal variation with different Egyptian marine sources to fill the gap of freshwater crisis and simultaneously preserve energy.
A rat study on the PTEN expression in ovarian tissue in PCOS and folliculogenesis
Authors: Namlı Kalem Muberra , Anadol Elvan , Kalem Ziya , Sezginer Perihan Yalçınkaya , Elmas Cigdem , Yılmaz Canan , Bakirarar Batuhan
Published: November 2023

The objective of this investigation was to examine alterations in PTEN expression within ovarian tissue in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The analysis also encompassed the examination of PTEN alterations in the ovarian tissue throughout the process of folliculogenesis in rats with normal ovulatory cycles. The study involved 12 adult female Sprague‒Dawley rats randomly assigned to the letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) group as part of an animal-based research endeavour. The sections derived from the ovaries were subjected to immunohistochemical staining for PTEN. The evaluation of PTEN staining levels in ovarian tissues was conducted using electron microscopy. Follicle counts, as well as hormonal and biochemical analyses (serum luteinising hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), testosterone, oestradiol levels and serum glucose, triglyceride, HDL and LDL-cholesterol levels), were conducted to provide evidence of the manifestation of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in rats. The number of primordial and Graafian follicles in the PCOS group decreased significantly, and the number of primary, secondary and antral follicles increased significantly. PTEN expression was found to be significantly higher in the PCOS group than in the control group in the primordial follicle oocyte cytoplasm, primordial follicle granulosa cells, primary follicle oocyte cytoplasm, primary follicle granulosa cells, antral follicle oocyte cytoplasm, antral follicle granulosa cells, and corpus luteum (p = 0.007, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.002, and p = 0.018, respectively). In the non-PCOS group, a time-dependent comparison of the amount of oocyte cytoplasm and PTEN staining in granulosa cells of the oocytes at different stages of development was performed. While the follicles were developing from the primordial follicle to the primary and antral follicle, the amount of PTEN staining in the oocyte cytoplasm decreased, whereas the PTEN activity in the granulosa cells increased as the oocyte developed (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). The current investigation demonstrated changes in PTEN expression in ovarian tissue throughout the course of normal folliculogenesis, as well as in instances of disrupted folliculogenesis, with a focus on rats with PCOS.
Improved detection and phylogenetic analysis of plant proteins containing LysM domains
Authors: Dallachiesa Dardo , Aguilar O. Mario , Lozano Mauricio J.
Published: November 2023

Plants perceive N-acetyl-d-glucosamine-containing oligosaccharides that play a role in the interaction with bacteria and fungi, through cell-surface receptors containing a tight bundle of three LysM domains in their extracellular region. However, the identification of LysM domains of receptor-like kinases (RLK)/receptor-like proteins (RLP) using sequence based methods has led to some ambiguity, as some proteins have been annotated with only one or two LysM domains. This missing annotation was likely produced by the failure of the LysM hidden Markov model (HMM) from the Pfam database to correctly identify some LysM domains in proteins of plant origin. In this work, we provide improved HMMs for LysM domain detection in plants, that were built from the structural alignment of manually curated LysM domain structures from the Protein Data Bank and AlphaFold Protein Structure Database. Furthermore, we evaluated different sets of ligand-specific HMMs that were able to correctly classify a limited set of fully characterised RLK/Ps by their ligand specificity. In contrast, the phylogenetic analysis of the extracellular region of RLK/Ps, or of their individual LysM domains, was unable to discriminate these proteins by their ligand specificity. The HMMs reported here will allow a more sensitive detection of plant proteins containing LysM domains and help improve their characterisation.
Revised emission factors for estimating direct nitrous oxide emissions from nitrogen inputs in Australia’s agricultural production systems: a meta-analysis
Authors: Grace Peter , De Rosa Daniele , Shcherbak Iurii , Strazzabosco Alice , Rowlings David , Scheer Clemens , Barton Louise , Wang Weijin , Schwenke Graeme , Armstrong Roger , Porter Ian , Bell Michael
Published: November 2023

Context Agricultural soils are a major source of emissions of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O). Aim Quantify direct N2O emissions from Australian agricultural production systems receiving nitrogen (N) inputs from synthetic and organic fertilisers, crop residues, urine and dung. Method A meta-analysis of N2O emissions from Australian agriculture (2003–2021) identified 394 valid emission factors (EFs), including 102 EFs with enhanced efficiency fertilisers (EEFs). Key results The average EF from all N sources (excluding EEFs) was 0.57%. Industry-based EFs for synthetic N fertiliser (excluding EEFs) ranged from 0.17% (non-irrigated pasture) to 1.77% (sugar cane), with an average Australia-wide EF of 0.70%. Emission factors were independent of topsoil organic carbon content, bulk density and pH. The revised EF for the non-irrigated cropping (grains) industry is now 0.41%; however, geographically-defined EFs are recommended. Urea was the most common N source with an average EF of 0.72% compared to urine (0.20%), dung (0.06%) and organo-mineral mixtures (0.26%). The EF for synthetic N fertilisers in rainfed environments increased by 0.16% for every 100 mm over 300 mm mean annual rainfall. For each additional 50 kg N ha−1 of synthetic fertiliser, EFs increased by 0.13%, 0.31% and 0.38% for the horticulture, irrigated and high rainfall non-irrigated cropping industries, respectively. The use of 3,4 dimethylpyrazole-phosphate (DMPP) produced significant reductions in EFs of 55%, 80% and 84% for the horticulture, non-irrigated and irrigated cropping industries, respectively. Conclusions and implications Incorporation of the revised EFs into the 2020 National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) produced a 12% increase in direct N2O emissions from the application of synthetic N fertilisers. The lack of country-specific crop residue decomposition data is a major deficiency in the NGA.
Supporting Dialogue: Using Self-Selected Material Objects to Explore Spirituality, Mental Distress and the Social Worker Role
Authors: Carlisle Patricia
Published: November 2023

This article is based upon a qualitative doctoral study about the role, if any, of spirituality in the lives of mental health service users, and how the subject is engaged with mental health social workers in Northern Ireland (NI). One-to-one interviews with twelve mental health service users and twelve mental health social workers were conducted with participants invited to bring an object. The object was used to assist dialogue with participants regarding their experience of spirituality, and its application in practice. International research proposes that spirituality plays a supportive role for some people experiencing mental health problems. The acknowledgement of spirituality in mental health social work practice in NI is, however, challenging due to various factors. Of particular significance is NI’s history of violent political conflict, shaped in part by the contested role of religion in the creation of the NI state. This article considers how the selection, presence and absence of the object were used to support participants in exploring a subject that can be challenging to communicate. This article proposes the use of objects within mental health social work practice and research as useful aides to explore culturally sensitive and personal topics.
Treatment of right-sided aortic arch aneurysms with aberrant left subclavian artery with Kommerell’s diverticulum using the frozen elephant trunk technique
Authors: Juraszek Andrzej , Berger Tim , Kreibich Maximilian , Tsagakis Konstantinos , Sioris Thanos , Berkarda Zeynep , Rylski Bartosz , Siepe Matthias , Czerny Martin
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVES

The ideal treatment for aneuryms of aberrant left subclavian arteries with Kommerell's diverticulum arising from right aortic arches remains open.

METHODS

Between January 2015 and December 2020, 5 patients with aneurysms from a right-sided aortic arch with aberrant left subclavian artery and Kommerell’s diverticulum underwent repair by using the frozen elephant trunk technique in 3 aortic centres. Patients’ characteristics were retrospectively reviewed and the surgical procedure and outcomes are presented.

RESULTS

The median age of the 2 male and 3 female patients was 59 (range from 49 to 63) years. The median operative times were as follows: surgery 405 min (range from 335 to 534), cardiopulmonary bypass time 244 min (range from 208 to 280) and aortic clamp time 120 min (from 71 to 184). The mean core temperature was 25.94°C (from 24 to 28). The intensive care unit stay was 4 days (range from 1 to 8) and the in-hospital stay 21 days (from 16 to 34). All patients were discharged and we observed no stroke or spinal cord ischaemia postoperatively. During the median follow-up time of 1003 days (range from 450 to 2306), 3 patients required subsequent thoracic endovascular distal stent graft extension.

CONCLUSIONS

The frozen elephant trunk technique is a good treatment option for patients with aneuryms of an aberrant left subclavian artery with Kommerell's diverticulum arising from right aortic arches. Secondary stent graft extension is a frequently needed component of the treatment concept.
Perceptions and Prevalence of Cannabis Use in Women With Inflammatory Bowel Disease of Reproductive Age: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hossein-Javaheri Nariman , O’Connor Katie , Steinhart Hillary , Deshpande Amol , Maxwell Cynthia , Huang Vivian , Tandon Parul
Published: November 2023

Background

Many patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may use cannabis for relief of symptoms. During pregnancy, however, cannabis exposure may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. We aimed to determine the prevalence and perceptions of cannabis use in women with IBD.

Methods

Through recruitment at Mount Sinai Hospital and online platforms such as Twitter, women with IBD (age 18–45) were asked to complete anonymous surveys on demographics, cannabis use, perception of use during pregnancy, and discussing its use with healthcare providers (HCP). Categorical variables were reported as frequencies and compared across groups with the chi-square test.

Results

One-hundred and two pregnant patients with IBD were included in this study, 19 (18.6%) reported using cannabis. Current users were more likely to report constant pain in the last 12 months and discuss its use with their HCP. Fifty-three (52.0%) women were unsure of the specific risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy, and only 15 (14.7%) had ever discussed its use with their HCP. Those who had discussed cannabis use with their HCP were more likely to have prior IBD-related surgery, perceive its use unsafe during pregnancy, and be more likely to be using cannabis.

Conclusion

Many women with IBD report uncertainty of the risks of cannabis use during pregnancy and the majority have never discussed cannabis use with their providers. With the increasing legalization of cannabis in many jurisdictions, it is imperative patients and healthcare providers discuss the risks and benefits of its use, particularly during vulnerable times such as pregnancy.
Predicting the potential distribution range of Batocera horsfieldi under CMIP6 climate change using the MaxEnt model
Authors: Wei Xinju , Xu Danping , Liu Quanwei , Wu Yuhan , Zhuo Zhihang
Published: November 2023

Batocera horsfieldi (Hope) (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Batocera) is an important wood-boring pest in China, mainly affecting natural forests, economic forests, urban gardens, and green landscapes. In this study, based on the MaxEnt model and ArcGIS, we combined 216 distribution records of B. horsfieldi with 11 selected key environmental variables to predict its potential suitable distribution under current climate data (1970–2000) and 3 climate emission scenarios from the Sixth Phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6). The results showed that monthly mean diurnal temperature ranges (bio2), isothermality (bio3), temperature seasonality (bio4), minimum temperature of the coldest month (bio6), mean temperature of the wettest quarter (bio8), mean temperature of the driest quarter (bio9), annual precipitation (bio12), precipitation of the wettest month (bio13), precipitation of the driest month (bio14), precipitation seasonality (coefficient of variation) (bio15), and altitude were the key environmental variables influencing the potential distribution of B. horsfieldi. In the future scenarios of SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5, the areas of high, moderate, and low suitable distribution areas have varied to different extents. However, under the SSP2-4.5 scenario (2050s), there is an observable increase in the areas of high, moderate, and low suitability. The total area of the suitable area reaches 160.88 × 104 km2 and is also shifting toward higher latitudes and altitudes. This study provides scientific reference for future pest control by predicting B. horsfieldi’s potential distribution. A “graded response” detection and early warning system and prevention and control strategies can be formulated based on the potential suitable areas to address this pest challenge effectively.
An alternative chicken-based diet for mass-rearing screwworm flies
Authors: Hickner Paul V , Sagel Agustin , Quintero Gladys , Vasquez Mario , Tietjen Mackenzie , Lohmeyer Kimberly H , Arp Alex P
Published: November 2023

Screwworm flies are mass-reared and released along the Panama-Colombia border to prevent reinfestation of Central and North America. The cost of the production facility, labor, and diet materials makes mass-rearing the most expensive component of the program. The mass-rearing diet has a large impact on the quality and quantity of insects produced, both of which are necessary for the successful implementation of the sterile insect technique. The diet currently used to rear screwworm flies in Panama contains dried bovine red blood cells, dried bovine plasma, egg powder, milk replacement powder, cellulose (thickening agent), formaldehyde (antimicrobial), and water. Here, we tested an alternative diet containing 2 chicken by-products, which cost less and are locally available, to replace the egg powder and milk replacement powder currently used in the diet. We used 2 screwworm colony strains in our test, the current production strain (Jamaica) and an early female-lethal strain. The chicken diet performed similarly to the production diet with the Jamaica strain, while further optimization will likely be needed for transgenic strain. Finally, nutritional analysis conducted on 7 diet ingredients will assist with diet optimization and the identification of alternative diet ingredients.
Peimisine ameliorates DSS-induced colitis by suppressing Jak–Stat activation and alleviating gut microbiota dysbiosis in mice
Authors: Li Yue , Yang Xia , Han Jicheng , Bai Bing , Li Yaru , Shang Chao , Li Shanzhi , Xiu Zhiru , Liu Zirui , Ge Chenchen , Zhu Guangze , Jin Ningyi , Fang Jinbo , Li Yiquan , Li Xiao , Zhu Yilong
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Inflammatory cytokine secretion and gut microbiota dysbiosis play crucial roles in ulcerative colitis. In this research, the protective effects of peimisine on colitis mice were investigated.

Methods

The protective effects were evaluated by the disease activity index, colonic length, hematoxylin–eosin, and AB/PAS Staining. The protective mechanisms were analyzed by ELISA, Western-blot, immunohistochemistry staining, immunofluorescence staining, and 16S rRNA gene analysis.

Key findings

The results showed that peimisine treatment could reduce the disease activity index, prevent colonic shortening, and alleviate colon tissue damage. Peimisine treatment also decreased the levels of MCP-1, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α and affected macrophage polarization and Th17/Treg cell balance by downregulating the expression of jak1/2, p-jak1/2, stat1/3, and p-stat1/3. Moreover, peimisine treatment significantly increased the abundances of beneficial microbes (e.g. Ruminococcaceae UCG-014 and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group) and decreased the abundances of harmful microbes (e.g. Bacteroides and Escherichia).

Conclusions

Peimisine can ameliorate colitis by inhibiting Jak–Stat signaling pathway, reversing gut microbiota alterations, suppressing macrophage M1 polarization, maintaining the Th17/Treg cell balance, and reducing sustained inflammatory cytokines-related inflammatory injury.
Dysregulation of tyrosinase activity: a potential link between skin disorders and neurodegeneration
Authors: Jin Wanli , Stehbens Samantha J , Barnard Ross T , Blaskovich Mark A T , Ziora Zyta M
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The co-occurrence of melanoma and Parkinson’s disease (PD) is higher than expected. We review the relationship between melanoma and PD, then proffer a hypothesis of how dysregulated human tyrosinase could be involved in both diseases via the loss of dopamine and neuromelanin-positive neurons in PD and the genesis alterations in melanin content during melanoma.

Key findings

There are a surprising number of links between skin disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Some risk factors related to the co-occurrence of PD and melanoma have been extensively investigated over the past 15 years. It has been proposed that human tyrosinase, an enzyme participating in the biosynthesis of neuromelanin in the brain and of melanin in the skin, plays a role. Abnormally dysregulated human tyrosinase impacts the genesis and progression of melanoma and PD.

The dual role of human tyrosinase places it as the potential critical link between these seemingly distinct conditions. Detecting and monitoring human tyrosinase activity in the progression of melanoma and PD opens new opportunities for early diagnosis and treatment of both diseases.
Resazurin microplate test method for rapid determination of colistin resistance in carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumanii isolates
Authors: Yildirim Kubra , Simsek Ece , Kocak Orhan , Bozkurt Serhat , Koyuncu Ozyurt Ozlem , Coban Ahmet Yilmaz
Published: November 2023

Background

Colistin-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii isolates are extremely important pathogens for hospital-acquired infections.

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of the resazurin microplate assay (REMA) for the rapid determination of colistin resistance.

Methods

Susceptibility for colistin was investigated in vitro by the broth microdilution method (BMD) and the resazurin microplate assay (REMA) on 106 carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii isolates.

Results

The results of both test methods were compared, and the categorical agreement between them was found to be 100%. No minor, major, or very major discrepancy was observed between the 2 methods.

Conclusions

The most important advantages of REMA are that the results are obtained within 6 hours compared to the reference method, that it is easy to evaluate because it is colorimetric, and that the susceptibility result can be reported to the clinician on the same day as bacterial identification.
Feasibility and User Experience of Digital Patient Monitoring for Real-World Patients With Lung or Breast Cancer
Authors: Arriola Edurne , Jaal Jana , Edvardsen Anne , Silvoniemi Maria , Araújo António , Vikström Anders , Zairi Eleni , Rodriguez-Mues Mari Carmen , Roccato Marco , Schneider Sophie , Ammann Johannes
Published: November 2023

Background

Digital patient monitoring (DPM) tools can facilitate early symptom management for patients with cancer through systematic symptom reporting; however, low adherence can be a challenge. We assessed patient/healthcare professional (HCP) use of DPM in routine clinical practice.

Materials and Methods

Patients with locally advanced/metastatic lung cancer or HER2-positive breast cancer received locally approved/reimbursed drugs alongside DPM, with elements tailored by F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, on the Kaiku Health DPM platform. Patient access to the DPM tool was through their own devices (eg, laptops, PCs, smartphones, or tablets), via either a browser or an app on Apple iOS or Android devices. Coprimary endpoints were patient DPM tool adoption (positive threshold: 60%) and week 1-6 adherence to weekly symptom reporting (positive threshold: 70%). Secondary endpoints included experience and clinical impact.

Results

At data cutoff (June 9, 2022), adoption was 85% and adherence was 76%. Customer satisfaction and effort scores for patients were 76% and 82%, respectively, and 83% and 79% for HCPs. Patients spent approximately 10 minutes using the DPM tool and completed approximately 1.0 symptom questionnaires per week (completion time 1-4 minutes). HCPs spent approximately 1-3 minutes a week using the tool per patient. Median time to HCP review for alerted versus non-alerted symptom questionnaires was 19.6 versus 21.5 hours. Most patients and HCPs felt that the DPM tool covered/mostly covered symptoms experienced (71% and 75%), was educational (65% and 92%), and improved patient-HCP conversations (70% and 83%) and cancer care (51% and 71%).

Conclusion

The DPM tool demonstrated positive adoption, adherence, and user experience for patients with lung/breast cancer, suggesting that DPM tools may benefit clinical cancer care.
Prevalence and predictors of mortality among hospitalized children with severe acute malnutrition in a hospital in North Cameroon
Authors: Kedy Koum Danièle Christiane , Eposse Charlotte , Kojom Foko Loick Pradel , Mbono Betoko Ritha , Ismaila Zeinabou , Njanseb Nfanleu Carine Laure , Noukeu Njinkui Diomède , Penda Calixte Ida
Published: November 2023

Background

Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is a major public health concern responsible for paediatric hospitalizations and more than one-third of deaths across the world. In 2013, SAM caused ≥20% of deaths in severely malnourished infants in Douala, the economic capital of Cameroon. There is little data on SAM in economically, sanitary and socially disadvantaged Cameroonian regions including the North region.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and potential predictors of mortality among children with SAM in a reference health facility in Garoua, North region, Cameroon.

Methods

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from November 2021 to May 2022 at the paediatric ward of Garoua Regional hospital. Data collected on sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic characteristics in this study were questionnaire based.

Results

A total of 6769 children were admitted for hospitalization during the study period, among them 701 SAM cases, giving a hospital prevalence of 10.4%. Of the 347 children included, 51% of the study population were males and 87.6% were children aged 6–23 months. Seven predictors of mortality were identified: orphan status [adjusted odds ratios (AOR) = 8.70, p = 0.021], vomiting (AOR = 3.40, p < 0.0001), marasmus–kwashiorkor (AOR = 7.30, p = 0.005), lack of appetite (AOR = 56.10, p < 0.0001), cutaneous lesions (AOR = 5.50, p = 0.014), lethargy (AOR = 4.50, p = 0.001) and nasogastric rehydration (AOR = 6.50, p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Practitioners in the northern region of Cameroon should address these locally identified mortality factors to intervene with, and hopefully prevent and adequately manage malnutrition and SAM in this and similar contexts.
Building LCME‐compliant Histology Teaching and Learning for Clinicians
Authors: Ettarh Rajunor
Published: November 2023

The teaching of histology is evolving. The traditional approach to teaching histology in medical curricula has emphasized identification of cells and tissues, correlation with normal function, and application to disease particularly with regard to histopathology. This arrangement has served and satisfied medical schools and the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) for decades. Advances in technology and the gradual drive by the LCME and medical schools to emphasize cooperative learning and integration of learned material across courses in the medical school curriculum has resulted in two main changes: increasing use of technology, and group‐based approaches to teaching and learning. Virtual microscopy now complements or replaces optical microscopy in histology courses in many medical schools. More schools now incorporate table conference approaches in histology (for example, team‐, problem‐, and case‐based learning) courses. With these significant advances in the tools and teaching methods in histology, it is also perhaps necessary to examine the core rationale that determines the intrinsic content of histology courses in MD curricula. Should the degree program and its intended product shape the content of histology courses? Is histology a one‐size‐fits‐all course? Is integrated content only important in MD programs? With increasing constraints in curricular time, the challenge for faculty is to define content that combines cooperative learning, technology, and program objectives. Histology for medicine needs to be defined in terms of its application to clinical practice rather than simply a tissue identification skill and basis for histopathology. For medical schools, such redefined content has a bigger and more critical role to play in the future for clinicians than previous content iterations have had.
ANTI‐INFLAMMATORY EFFECT OF BRAIN‐VAGAL STIMULATION: IMPLICATION IN POST OPERATIVE GASTRIC ILEUS
Authors: YUAN PU‐QING , TACHÉ YVETTE
Published: November 2023

Resident macrophages within the intestinal muscularis externa (ME) contribute to both the initiation and the resolution of inflammation through activation of M1 and M2 phenotypes secreting pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory mediators respectively. The inflammation induced by abdominal surgery (AS) and its role in ileus have been reported mainly in the intestine while rarely studied in the stomach. There is a known anti‐inflammatory effect of electrical vagal stimulation involving cholinergic signaling. We showed that intracisternal (IC) injection of the stable thyrotropin‐releasing hormone (TRH) analog, RX‐77368 activates neurons in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMN), gastric vagal efferent activity and cholinergic neurons in the gastric myenteric plexus (MP). Aims of this study are to investigate whether AS induces gastric inflammation by altering the activation states of macrophages in the myenteric plexus (MP) and whether central vagal stimulation prevents this response. We obtained evidence in the rat gastric corpus that M1 macrophages are distributed on or around myenteric ganglia in a highly variable or patchy pattern while M2 often outlined the perimeter of ganglia with processes conformed to the surface of the cholinergic neurons as visualized by specific markers. At 6 h after AS there is a significant increase in the number of M1 cells (2.2.‐fold) and interleukin (IL) 1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) a mRNA (1.6‐ and 1.3‐fold respectively) with infiltration of neutrophils labeled by myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the ME and gastric emptying (GE) is delayed. IC RX77368 significantly upregulated the gene expression of peripheral choline acetyl transferase (pChAT) and vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), abolished the above increases in the gastric ME and prevented the delayed GE induced by AS. The M2 cell number and IL10 expression did not change after AS or IC RX77368. We also showed that Ghrelin and enzyme ghrelin‐O‐acyltransferase mRNAs were significantly upregulated in the gastric mucosa 6 h after AS which was completely reversed by IC RX77368. The oral administration of the brain penetrant ghrelin agonist, HM01 induced Fos expression in 53% of ChAT immunoreactive (IR) neurons in the DMN and 55% of pChAT IR neurons in the gastric MP. Hexamethonium partially reduced HM01‐induced increase of Fos expression in the MP but not in the DMN. At 6 h post AS, the upregulation of gastric IL1β and TNFα and delayed GE by AS were abolished by HMO1 while IL10 was elevated. These data indicate that AS induced a pro‐inflammatory M1 response in the gastric ME which is prevented by central vagal cholinergic activation induced by central TRH or ghrelin; this may play a role in alleviating postoperative gastric ileus.

Support or Funding Information

NIH/NIDDK R01 DK057238 (YT)

VA Merit Award (YT)
Acute fructose overload induces baroreflex dysfunction in close relatives of type 2 diabetics
Authors: Santos Fernando , Dipp Thiago , Schaan Beatriz D Agord , Casali Karina Rabello , Morris Mariana , Signori Luis Ulisses , Della Méa Plentz Rodrigo , Irigoyen Maria Claudia
Published: November 2023

The study evaluated the effects of acute fructose overload on metabolic and cardiovascular parameters in offspring of diabetics. The goal was to uncover a possible hereditary influence. Groups were controls (CG, n=15) and first‐degree relatives of type 2 diabetics (FDR, n=12), male and female. Autonomic and cardiovascular measures were taken before and one hr. after drinking tepid water (300ml) or a fructose solution (100g in 300ml). The analysis was conducted under two conditions: supine and standing. There was no difference in age, waist‐hip ratio, BMI, fasting glucose, glucose overload response, fasting insulin, HOMA‐IR, TSH or lipids. Water or fructose under supine conditions did not change HR, SAP or HR variability. In contrast, under standing conditions fructose increased HR versus water in CG (100.6±5.1 vs. 82.7±3.5 bpm) and FDR (101.7±4.7 vs. 85.9±3.5 bpm). Fructose reduced HR variability in CG (36%) and in FDR (48%). Offspring of diabetics show a deficiency in autonomic activation when exposed to standing, independently of fructose intake. This is seen as a lower sympatho‐vagal balance after water or fructose, respectively (5.6±0.9 and 4.2±0.7) versus CG (12.0±2.2 and 8.8±1.1). With regard to SAP variability, FDR showed a 77% higher variance and a 101% higher peripheral sympathetic modulation when compared to CG, supine and standing. Baroreflex sensibility as measured by alpha index was normal in CG (13.2±1.1 and 12.5±1.5 ms/mmHg) after water and fructose, respectively. Baroreflex sensibility was lower in FDR submitted to fructose overload (7.5±0.9 ms/mmHg) as compared to FDR‐water (11.2±1.2 ms/mmHg) and CG after fructose (12.5±1.5 ms/mmHg). The same responses were seen in the standing position. Results suggest an important hereditary influence of fructose intake on autonomic function which is independent of metabolic changes. These findings raise concerns for excess fructose intake in persons with a hereditary relationship to diabetic patients.

Support or Funding Information

Fapesp 2013/23418‐0