bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of fungal spores and spore-like diversity in environmental samples by targeted lysis
Authors: Corona Ramirez Andrea , Bregnard Danaé , Junier Thomas , Cailleau Guillaume , Dorador Cristina , Bindschedler Saskia , Junier Pilar
Published: March 2023

At particular stages during their life cycles, fungi use multiple strategies to form specialized structures to survive unfavorable environmental conditions. These strategies encompass sporulation, as well as cell-wall melanization, multicellular tissue formation or even dimorphism. The resulting structures are not only used to disperse to other environments, but also to survive long periods of time awaiting favorable growth conditions. As a result, these specialized fungal structures are part of the microbial seed bank, which is known to influence the microbial community composition and contribute to the maintenance of diversity. Despite the importance of the microbial seed bank in the environment, methods to study the diversity of fungal structures with improved resistance only target spores dispersing in the air, omitting the high diversity of these structures in terms of morphology and environmental distribution. In this study, we applied a separation method based on cell lysis to enrich lysis-resistant fungal structures (for instance, spores, sclerotia, melanized yeast) to obtain a proxy of the composition of the fungal seed bank. This approach was first evaluated in-vitro in selected species. The results obtained showed that DNA from fungal spores and from yeast was only obtained after the application of the enrichment method, while mycelium was always lysed. After validation, we compared the diversity of the total and lysis-resistant fractions in the polyextreme environment of the Salar de Huasco, a high-altitude athalassohaline wetland in the Chilean Altiplano. Environmental samples were collected from the salt flat and from microbial mats in small surrounding ponds. Both the lake sediments and microbial mats were dominated by Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, however, the diversity and composition of each environment differed at lower taxonomic ranks. Members of the phylum Chytridiomycota were enriched in the lysis-resistant fraction, while members of the phylum Rozellomycota were never detected in this fraction. Moreover, we show that the community composition of the lysis-resistant fraction reflects the diversity of life cycles and survival strategies developed by fungi in the environment. To the best of our knowledge this is the first time that the fungal diversity is explored in the Salar de Huasco. In addition, the method presented here provides a simple and culture independent approach to assess the diversity of fungal lysis-resistant cells in the environment.
Mechanisms of salinity tolerance and their possible application in the breeding of vegetables
Authors: Shams Mostafakamal , Khadivi Ali
Published: March 2023

Background

In dry and semi-arid areas, salinity is the most serious hazard to agriculture, which can affect plant growth and development adversely. Over-accumulation of Na+in plant organs can cause an osmotic effect and an imbalance in nutrient uptake. However, its harmful impact can vary depending on genotype, period of exposure to stress, plant development stage, and concentration and content of salt. To overcome the unfavorable effect of salinity, plants have developed two kinds of tolerance strategies based on either minimizing the entrance of salts by the roots or administering their concentration and diffusion.

Results

Having sufficient knowledge of Na+accumulation mechanisms and an understanding of the function of genes involved in transport activity will present a new option to enhance the salinity tolerance of vegetables related to food security in arid regions. Considerable improvements in tolerance mechanisms can be employed for breeding vegetables with boosted yield performance under salt stress. A conventional breeding method demands exhaustive research work in crops, while new techniques of molecular breeding, such as cutting-edge molecular tools and CRISPR technology are now available in economically important vegetables and give a fair chance for the development of genetically modified organisms.

Conclusions

Therefore, this review highlights the molecular mechanisms of salinity tolerance, various molecular methods of breeding, and many sources of genetic variation for inducing tolerance to salinity stress.
Vitamin D3 supplementation as an adjunct in the management of childhood infectious diarrhea: a systematic review
Authors: Uwaezuoke Samuel N , Odimegwu Chioma L , Mbanefo Ngozi R , Eneh Chizoma I , Arodiwe Ijeoma O , Muoneke Uzoamaka V , Ogbuka Francis N , Ndiokwelu Chibuzo O , Akwue Anthony T
Published: March 2023

Background

Some studies have reported the possible role of vitamin D3 in ameliorating disease outcomes in childhood infectious diarrhea. However, findings about its effectiveness and the association of serum vitamin D levels with diarrhea risk appear inconsistent. We aimed to determine the efficacy of oral vitamin D3 as an adjunct in managing childhood infectious diarrhea and the relationship between vitamin D status and the disease.

Methods

We searched the PubMed and Google Scholar electronic databases for relevant articles without limiting their year of publication. We selected primary studies that met the review’s inclusion criteria, screened their titles and abstracts, and removed duplicates. We extracted data items from selected studies using a structured data-extraction form. We conducted a quality assessment of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies with the Cochrane collaboration tool and the Newcastle Ottawa Scale, respectively. We assessed the strength of the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and diarrhea using the correlation model. We estimated the I2 and tau2 values to assess between-study heterogeneity.

Results

Nine full-text articles were selected, consisting of one RCT, three cross-sectional studies, two cohort studies, two longitudinal/prospective studies, and one case-control study. A total of 5,545 participants were evaluated in the nine studies. Six non-randomized studies provided weak evidence of the relationship between vitamin D levels and diarrhea risk as there was no correlation between the two variables. The only RCT failed to demonstrate any beneficial role of vitamin D3 in reducing the risk of recurrent diarrhea. The calculated I2 and tau2 values of 86.5% and 0.03, respectively suggested a high between-study heterogeneity which precluded a meta-analysis of study results.

Conclusion

Oral vitamin D3 may not be an effective adjunct in managing childhood infectious diarrhea. Additionally, the relationship between vitamin D status and infectious diarrhea appears weak. We recommend more adequately-powered RCTs to determine the effectiveness of vitamin D3 as an adjunct therapy in infectious diarrhea.
A case of acute tubulointerstitial nephritis following administration of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine: a case report
Authors: Williams Samuel B. M. , Holwill Stephen D. J. , Clissold Rhian L. , Bingham Coralie
Published: March 2023

Background

More than 4 billion doses of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine have been administered worldwide but the relationship between the different vaccines and the development of renal disease is unknown. We present a case of tubulointerstitial nephritis following administration of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

Case presentation

A previously fit and well 51-year-old female presented on 27th May 2021 with a one-month history of weight loss, fatigue, nausea, and a metallic taste. She had an acute kidney injury with a creatinine of 484 umol/L. She was on no regular medications and denied taking any over-the-counter or alternative medicines. She had received her first dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine on 23rd March 2021 and her second dose on 20th May 2021. A renal biopsy was performed the following day. The 19 glomeruli appeared normal to light microscopy but the tubulointerstitial compartment contained a dense inflammatory infiltrate including many eosinophils. There was widespread acute tubular injury with tubulitis, but no established or longstanding atrophy. A diagnosis was made of an acute tubulointerstitial nephritis. She was commenced on oral prednisolone and her renal function improved. She did not require renal replacement therapy at any time.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this was the first described case of acute tubulointerstitial nephritis following administration of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, although a number of cases have emerged more recently. In our case the patient was very fit and well, had no previous past medical history and had not taken any recent prescribed, over-the-counter or alternative medications. The absence of these provoking factors in our case makes the vaccine the most likely explanation for the development of tubulointerstitial nephritis although the pathophysiology behind this remains unknown. Given the unprecedented number of vaccinations being delivered around the world, nephrologists should be aware of this possible link although more research into the topic is required.
Hypertrophic olivary degeneration associated with bilateral vocal cord adductor dystonia
Authors: Lycett Mitchell , Cui Cathy Kexin , Dragicevich Dijana , Harris Roger , Ng Karl
Published: March 2023

Background

Hypertrophic olivary degeneration (HOD) is a rare condition caused by lesions within the dentato-rubro-olivary pathway, resulting in ocular nystagmus and palatal myoclonus (oculopalatal tremor) but not usually dystonia. Dystonia is an uncommon association, and we present the first reported association of hypertrophic olivary degeneration with bilateral vocal cord dystonia.

Case presentation

A 33 year old male presented initially with acute hydrocephalus on the background of previous ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting for previously treated medulloblastoma. After revision of the VP shunt, the patient developed progressive hiccups and stridor leading to respiratory failure requiring intubation. Ocular pendular nystagmus and palatal myoclonus at 3 Hz was observed. Flexible nasendoscopy (FNE) demonstrated bilateral tonic adduction of the vocal folds with 3 Hz coarse supraglottic, pharyngeal and palatal rhythmic myoclonus. MRI imaging demonstrated T2 hyperintensity within the bilateral inferior olivary nuclei consistent with stage 3 radiological HOD.

Conclusions

Dystonia is a rarely reported phenomenon in HOD but is not unexpected with the inferior olivary nucleus implicated in dystonic disorders. We report the association of HOD with bilateral vocal cord adductor dystonia, a potentially life threatening condition.
Integrated analyzes identify CCT3 as a modulator to shape immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Junfeng , Hu Bingqi , Yang Ying , Liu Huanhuan , Fan Xingyu , Zhou Jing , Chen Liwen
Published: March 2023

Background

Chaperonin-containing tailless complex polypeptide 1 (TCP1) subunit 3 (CCT3) has tumor-promoting effects in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). This study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of CCT3 in LUAD oncogenesis.

Methods

The UALCAN databases, Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data were used to analyze CCT3 expression in LUAD. Both the Wilcoxon rank-sum test and the regression model were used to investigate the connection between clinicopathologic characteristics of LUAD patients and CCT3 expression. The prognostic value of CCT3 was determined by Cox regression models, the Kaplan-Meier method and Nomogram prediction. Next, we identified the most related genes with CCT3 via GeneMANIA and String databases, and the association between CCT3 and infiltrated immune cells using single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA). CCT3-related pathway enrichment analysis was investigated by GSEA. Finally, CCT3 roles in cell proliferation and apoptosis of LUAD A549 cells was verified by siRNA (small interfering RNA) mediated CCT3 knockdown.

Results

CCT3 was upregulated in LUAD both in mRNA and protein levels. CCT3 overexpression was associated with clinicopathological characteristics including sex, smoking, T- and N-categories, pathological staging, and a poor prognosis of LUAD patients. GeneMANIA and String databases found a set of CCT3-related genes that are connected to the assembly and stability of proteins involved in proteostasis of cytoskeletal filaments, DNA repair and protein methylation. Furthermore, CCT3 was found to be positively correlated with the infiltrating Th2 cells (r = 0.442, p < 0.01) while negatively correlated with mast cells (r = -0.49, p < 0.01) and immature dendritic cells (iDCs, r = -0.401, p < 0.001) according to ssGSEA analyzes. The pathway analysis based on GSEA method showed that the cell cycle pathway, the protein export pathway, the proteasome pathway and the ribosome pathway are enriched in CCT3 high group, whereas the JAK/STAT pathway, B cell receptor pathway, T cell receptor pathway and toll like receptor pathway were enriched in CCT3 low group. Finally, CCT3 knockdown substantially inhibited proliferation while promoted apoptosis of A549 cells.

Conclusion

Integrated analyzes identify CCT3 as a modulator to shape immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in LUAD and therefore, a prognostic factor for LUAD.
A nomogram based on platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio for predicting pathological complete response of breast cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Ma Rulan , Wei Wanzhen , Ye Haixia , Dang Chengxue , Li Kang , Yuan Dawei
Published: March 2023

Objective

To investigate the role of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in complete pathological response (pCR) of breast cancer (BC) patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), as well as to establish and validate a nomogram for predicting pCR.

Methods

BC patients diagnosed and treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University from January 2019 to June 2022 were included. The correlation between pCR and clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed by Chi-square test. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the factors that might affect pCR. Based on the results of regression analysis, a nomogram for predicting pCR was established and validated.

Results

A total of 112 BC patients were included in this study. 50.89% of the patients acquired pCR after NAC. Chi-square test showed that PLR was significantly correlated with pCR (X2 = 18.878, P < 0.001). And the PLR before NAC in pCR group was lower than that in Non-pCR group (t = 3.290, P = 0.001). Logistic regression analysis suggested that white blood cell (WBC) [odds ratio (OR): 0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.04–0.85, P = 0.030)], platelet (PLT) (OR: 0.19, 95%CI: 0.04–0.85, P = 0.030), PLR (OR: 0.18, 95%CI: 0.04–0.90, P = 0.036) and tumor grade (OR: 9.24, 95%CI: 1.89–45.07, P = 0.006) were independent predictors of pCR after NAC. A nomogram prediction model based on WBC, PLR, PLR and tumor grade showed a good predictive ability.

Conclusion

PLR, PLT, WBC and tumor grade were independent predictors of pCR in BC patients after NAC. The nomogram based on the above positive factors showed a good predictive ability.
Clinical characteristics and prognostic characterization of endometrial carcinoma: a comparative analysis of molecular typing protocols
Authors: Yang Zihui , Yang Xi , Liu Xinyu , Ma Ke , Meng Yi-Ting , Yin Hong-Fang , Wen Jia , Yang Jiang-Hui , Zhen Zeng , Feng Zong-Hao , Liao Qin-Ping
Published: March 2023

Background

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is one of the most common gynecological malignancies in China and globally, accounting for the fourth-prevalent cancer in women. Although numerous studies have confirmed prognostic value of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) molecular subgroups, it is unclear how they are combined with histological features. The main objective of this study was to compare ProMisE and TCGA classification for the rapid and accurate prediction of prognosis within EC patients, together with the provision of a revised strategy for individualized diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Methods

Within this study, 70 patients with EC from Beijing Tsinghua Changgeng Hospital (affiliated to Tsinghua University) were retrospectively examined between July 2015 and December 2021. Samples were processed for determination of clinical markers, together with ProMisE and TCGA classification.

Results

Comparative analysis across four TCGA types (POLE, Low-CN, High-CN, and MSI-H) and age, was statistically significant (χ²= 7.000, p = 0.029). There was no significant difference observed among the four TCGA types and FIGO stage, vascular invasion and depth of invasion, or lymph node metastasis and tumor area. There was no significant association between the expression of Vimentin, Ki-67, PTEN, MSH2, PAX-8, β-catenin, CD10, ER, PR, P16, MLH1, and PMS2 with the four TCGA types. In addition, p63 expression (χ²= 11.09, p = 0.029) and p53 expression (χ²= 11.585, p = 0.005) were statistically significant. Numerous models demonstrated that patients with POLE mutations and low-CN had higher progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), whereas those with high-CN had lowest values. The log-rank test revealed that the survival rate of PR-positive and ER-positive patients was significantly higher (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Overall, these results can be of additional benefit for clinical applications, in comparison to the ProMisE classification method. In addition, PR, ER, vascular infiltration, hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis were found to be the key factors affecting EC prognosis.
Spinal muscular atrophy and anorexia nervosa: a case report
Authors: Yeung Siu Tsin Au , Alford Colleen , You Daniel
Published: March 2023

Background

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive condition affecting lower motor neurons causing progressive muscle atrophy. Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric disorder characterised by intense fear of weight gain, restriction of energy intake, and preoccupation with body weight and shape. Low weight, gastrointestinal dysmotility, and respiratory infections are common in SMA but may mask AN. No paediatric cases of AN in SMA have been reported to date.

Case presentation

A 14-year-old female with SMA2 presented with 12 months of declining body weight to a nadir of 24.8 kg (BMI 11). This was initially attributed to medical complications including pneumonia and gastroenteritis, and chronic gut dysmotility associated with SMA. Despite almost 2 years of dietetic input and nutritional supplementation due to the weight plateauing from age 11, no significant restoration or gain was achieved. The Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) indicated a possible eating disorder and psychiatric evaluation confirmed AN.

Initial management prioritised close medical monitoring and outpatient weight restoration on an oral meal plan. Skin fold anthropometric measurement was conducted to determine a minimum healthy weight. Individual psychological therapy and family sessions were undertaken. The patient developed major depression and a brief relapse with weight loss to 28 kg. Since then, the patient has maintained a weight of around 35 kg with stable mood.

Conclusions

Low body weight, feeding issues, gastrointestinal dysmotility, and respiratory infections are common in SMA and diagnostic overshadowing can lead to delayed recognition of anorexia nervosa. Change to growth trajectory and prolonged weight loss should prompt consideration of comorbid psychiatric issues. Screening measures such as the EDE-Q and DASS may be helpful in this population. Close liaison between the neurogenetics and psychiatry teams is helpful. Skin fold anthropometry can assist in identifying a minimum healthy weight range.
Experiences of microdosing psychedelics in an attempt to support wellbeing and mental health
Authors: Ryan Rebecca S. , Copello Alex , Fox Andrew P.
Published: March 2023

Background

Microdosing psychedelic drugs is a growing phenomenon, but little is known about the experiences surrounding this. Research broadly suggests that people may use psychedelics in an attempt to self-medicate for mental health and wellbeing. However, the precise details, rationale and meaning of such attempts remains unclear, and would benefit from clarification, using tailored experiential methods. This research therefore aimed to explore the way that users make sense of microdosing psychedelics, with a particular focus on the experience of any perceived mental health or wellbeing changes.

Method

Participants were recruited via websites and online forums. An internet text-based, semi-structured interview was conducted anonymously with 13 participants regarding their experiences of microdosing psychedelic drugs. Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis was used to analyse the transcripts.

Results

Three superordinate themes were identified through the interviews: 1) Seeking a solution: Agency and rationale; 2) Microdosers as scientists; 3) Catalysing desirable and beneficial effects.

Conclusions

All participants approached microdosing methodically and with purpose. Participants reported that they had experienced beneficial effects of microdosing on their mental health, alongside cognitive, physical and social changes. By microdosing, participants reported that they had supported their own mental health and wellbeing, with microdosing described as a catalyst to achieving their aims in this area. This study provided additional knowledge and understanding of the experience, rationale and personal meaning of the microdosing phenomenon which can be used to inform future investigations in the areas of psychedelic use and mental health.
COVID-19 mitigation behaviors among English-Speaking Hmong Americans
Authors: Vang Kao Kang Kue , Catz Sheryl , Drake Christiana , Baker Dian , Garcia Lorena
Published: March 2023

Background

COVID-19 mitigation strategies such as masking, social distancing, avoiding group gatherings, and vaccination uptake are crucial interventions to preventing the spread of COVID-19. At present, COVID-19 data are aggregated and fail to identify subgroup variation in Asian American communities such as Hmong Americans. To understand the acceptance, adoption, and adherence to COVID-19 mitigation behaviors, an investigation of Hmong Americans’ contextual and personal characteristics was conducted.

Methods

This study aims to describe COVID-19 mitigation behaviors among Hmong Americans and the contextual and personal characteristics that influence these behaviors. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from April 8 till June 1, 2021, with Hmong Americans aged 18 and over. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the overall characteristics and COVID-19 related behaviors of Hmong Americans. Chi-square and Fisher’s Exact Test were computed to describe COVID-19 mitigation behaviors by gender and generational status (a marker of acculturation).

Results

The sample included 507 participants who completed the survey. A majority of the Hmong American participants in our study reported masking (449/505, 88.9%), social distancing (270/496, 55.3%), avoiding group gatherings (345/505, 68.3%), avoiding public spaces (366/506, 72.3%), and obtaining the COVID-19 vaccination (350/506, 69.2%) to stay safe from COVID-19. Women were more likely to socially distance (P = .005), and avoid family (P = .005), and social gatherings (P = .009) compared to men. Social influence patterns related to mitigation behaviors varied by sex. Men were more likely compared to women to be influenced by Hmong community leaders to participate in family and group gatherings (P = .026), masking (P = .029), social distancing (P = .022), and vaccination uptake (P = .037), whereas healthcare providers and government officials were social influencers for social distancing and masking for women. Patterns of social distancing and group gatherings were also influenced by generational status.

Conclusion

Contextual and personal characteristics influence COVID-19 mitigation behaviors among English speaking Hmong Americans. These findings have implications for identifying and implementing culturally appropriate health messages, future public health interventions, policy development, and ongoing research with this population.
The effect of a digital-assisted group rehabilitation on clinical and functional outcomes after total hip and knee arthroplasty—a prospective randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Osterloh Judith , Knaack Franziska , Bader Rainer , Behrens Martin , Peschers Juliana , Nawrath Lisa , Bergschmidt Philipp , Darowski Martin
Published: March 2023

Background

The rising number of total hip and knee arthroplasties and the decreasing availability of physiotherapists require clinically and economically effective rehabilitation approaches. Therefore, the present pilot study investigated the effect of a novel digital-assisted individualized group rehabilitation program on clinical and functional outcomes after total hip and knee arthroplasty.

Methods

In this randomized controlled pilot study, 26 patients undergoing total knee or hip replacement were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (IG, novel digital-assisted group therapy) or the control group (CG, standard postoperative physiotherapy currently carried out in Germany). The IG received the novel digital-assisted group therapy twice per week for a six-months period, while the CG received individual outpatient therapy depending on the prescription of the supervising physician. The number of therapy sessions was recorded. Moreover, subjective outcomes (EuroQol-5Dimensions (EQ-5D) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC)), functional outcome (30 s sit to stand test and timed up and go test (TUG)), as well as gait parameters were quantified preoperatively as well as at three and six months after surgery. Data were analyzed using an analysis of covariance with baseline-adjustment.

Results

No patient-reported falls, pain, and hospital readmissions were recorded. On average, the IG received more therapy sessions. The clinical and functional outcomes were mainly not significantly different between groups at three- and six-months follow-up, but medium to large effect sizes for the differences in quality of life (EQ-5D) as well as pain, stiffness, and physical function (WOMAC), and TUG performance were observed in favor of the IG. However, the IG showed a higher variability of gait velocity after total joint replacement.

Conclusion

The digital-assisted rehabilitation had positive effects on quality of life, pain, stiffness, physical function, and TUG performance. Nevertheless, the therapy concept may be improved by adding exercises focusing on gait performance to reduce gait variability. The results indicate that the digital-assisted therapy concept is effective and safe. Therefore, a consecutive full-scaled randomized controlled clinical trial is recommended.

Trial registration

This study was retrospectively registered on 14/02/2022 in the German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS00027960).
Variations in clinical course and surgical outcomes of acute appendicitis during COVID-19 Pandemic: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Chaves Carlos Eduardo Rey , Girón Felipe , Núñez-Rocha Ricardo E. , Benítez Elkin , Ruiz Saralia , Rodríguez Lina , Ayala Daniela , Villamil Carlos José , Galvis Valentina , Vanegas Marco , Gómez Mónica , Nassar Ricardo , Hernández Juan David , Conde Danny , Zuleta María Gómez
Published: March 2023

Background

COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in the presentation and treatment of surgical pathologies. Therefore, we aim to describe the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the clinical presentation and management of acute appendicitis (AAp) and its surgical outcomes.

Study design

A multicenter cohort study with prospectively collected databases. Three high-volume centers were included and all patients over 18 years of age who underwent appendectomy for AAp were included. Multiple logistic regression and multinomial logistic regression were performed, and odds ratio, relative risk, and B-coefficient were reported when appropriate, statistical significance was reached with p-values < 0.05.

Results

1.468 patients were included (709 in the pre-pandemic group and 759 in the COVID-19 group). Female patients constituted 51.84%. Mean age was 38.13 ± 16.96 years. Mean Alvarado’s score was 7.01 ± 1.59 points. Open surgical approach was preferred in 90.12%. Conversion rate of 1.29%. Mortality rate was 0.75%. There was an increase of perforated and localized peritonitis (p 0.01) in the COVID-19 group. Presence of any postoperative complication (p 0.00), requirement of right colectomy and ileostomy (p 0.00), and mortality (p 0.04) were higher in the COVID-19 group. Patients in the pre-pandemic group have a lesser risk of mortality (OR 0.14, p 0.02, 95% CI 0.02–0.81) and a lesser relative risk of having complicated appendicitis (RR 0.68, p 0.00, 95% CI 0.54–0.86).

Conclusion

Complicated appendicitis was an unexpected consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, due to surgical consultation delay, increased rates of morbidity, associated procedures, and mortality, influencing the clinical course and surgical outcomes of patients with AAp.
Evolution of public health policy on healthcare self-management: the case of Ontario, Canada
Authors: Gauthier-Beaupré Amélie , Kuziemsky Craig , Battistini Bruno J. , Jutai Jeffrey W.
Published: March 2023

Background

As people live longer, they are at increased risk for chronic diseases and disability. Self-management is a strategy to improve health outcomes and quality of life of those who engage in it. This study sought to gain a better understanding of the factors, including digital technology, that affect public health policy on self-management through an analysis of government policy in the most populous and multicultural province in Canada: Ontario. The overarching question guiding the study was: What factors have influenced the development of healthcare self-management policies over time?

Methods

Archival research methods, combining document review and evaluation, were used to collect data from policy documents published in Ontario. The documents were analyzed using the READ approach, evaluated using a data extraction table, and synthesized into themes using the model for health policy analysis.

Results

Between January 1, 1985, and May 5, 2022, 72 policy documents on self-management of health were retrieved from databases, archives, and grey literature. Their contents largely focussed on self-management of general chronic conditions, while 47% (n = 18/72) mention diabetes, and 3% (n = 2/72) focussed solely on older adults. Digital technologies were mentioned and were viewed as tools to support self-management in the context of healthcare delivery and enhancing healthcare infrastructure (i.e., telehealth or software in healthcare settings). The actors involved in the policy document creation included mostly Ontario government agencies and departments, and sometimes expert organizations, community groups and engaged stakeholders. The results suggest that several factors including pressures on the healthcare system, hybrid top-down and bottom-up policymaking, and political context have influenced the nature and implementation timing of self-management policy in Ontario.

Conclusions

The policy documents on self-management of health reveal a positive evolution of the content discussed over time. The changes were shaped by an evolving context, both from a health and political perspective, within a dynamic system of interactions between actors. This research helps understand the factors that have shaped changes and suggests that a critical evidence-based approach on public health policy is needed in understanding processes involved in the development of healthcare self-management policies from the perspective of a democratic governing system.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare workers towards COVID-19 patients in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Al Marzouqi Amina M. , Otim Michael Ekubu , Kehail Leena S. , Kamal Ramsha A.
Published: March 2023

Background

The Coronavirus disease (a highly infectious viral disease) quickly swept across the globe in 2020, causing mortality and severe respiratory illnesses. It quickly affected businesses and publicly provided services in United Arab Emirates (UAE), imposing significant costs to society. The general population of UAE was jittery and unsure how to address the problem. The focus turned on government and Health Care Workers (HCW) to handle the pandemic. Thus, knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of HCW became critical for the treatment and isolation of COVID-19 patients. Thus, the KAP of the HCW came under scrutiny. This is study set out to answer the research question, by investigating the KAP of HCW related to COVID-19 in the UAE.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study undertaken in UAE. The focus of was on HCWs as a population. Using convenience sampling with the help of Creative Research Software, the participants were identified, and an online questionnaire (Google Forms) distributed by the author. The questionnaire was adapted from the instrument developed by Bruce and Frey. It contained questions on demographic variables, knowledge, attitudes, and practice of HCW related to COVID-19. That instrument was contextualized to the UAE society and validated.

Results

Among the participants in the study, the majority, 90.7% (97) knew that the absence of fever did not mean there was no chance of transmission from an infected person. Further, 84.1% (90) agreed that wearing general medical face masks helps prevent one from contracting COVID-19. However, only 36.4% (39) strongly believed that wearing a well-fitting face mask was effective. In addition, only 15.9% (17) reported confidently managing patients with symptoms of COVID-19, while 54.2% (58) indicated they were afraid of contracting the virus from patients. Almost 50% of the participants noted that they avoided patients who had symptoms of the COVID-19.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the KAP for healthcare workers from UAE healthcare facilities related to COVID-19 was high. The healthcare workers were trained well and that positively affected awareness and the practice of HCW regarding the spread of the virus.
Completeness, agreement, and representativeness of ethnicity recording in the United Kingdom’s Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) and linked Hospital Episode Statistics (HES)
Authors: Shiekh Suhail I. , Harley Mia , Ghosh Rebecca E. , Ashworth Mark , Myles Puja , Booth Helen P. , Axson Eleanor L.
Published: March 2023

Background

This descriptive study assessed the completeness, agreement, and representativeness of ethnicity recording in the United Kingdom (UK) Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) primary care databases alone and, for those patients registered with a GP in England, when linked to secondary care data from Hospital Episode Statistics (HES).

Methods

Ethnicity records were assessed for all patients in the May 2021 builds of the CPRD GOLD and CPRD Aurum databases for all UK patients. In analyses of the UK, English data was from combined CPRD-HES, whereas data from Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales drew from CPRD only. The agreement of ethnicity records per patient was assessed within each dataset (CPRD GOLD, CPRD Aurum, and HES datasets) and between datasets at the highest level ethnicity categorisation (‘Asian’, ‘black’, ‘mixed’, ‘white’, ‘other’). Representativeness was assessed by comparing the ethnic distributions at the highest-level categorisation of CPRD-HES to those from the Census 2011 across the UK’s devolved administrations. Additionally, CPRD-HES was compared to the experimental ethnic distributions for England and Wales from the Office for National Statistics in 2019 (ONS2019) and the English ethnic distribution from May 2021 from NHS Digital’s General Practice Extraction Service Data for Pandemic Planning and Research with HES data linkage (GDPPR-HES).

Results

In CPRD-HES, 81.7% of currently registered patients in the UK had ethnicity recorded in primary care. For patients with multiple ethnicity records, mismatched ethnicity within individual primary and secondary care datasets was < 10%. Of English patients with ethnicity recorded in both CPRD and HES, 93.3% of records matched at the highest-level categorisation; however, the level of agreement was markedly lower in the ‘mixed’ and ‘other’ ethnic groups. CPRD-HES was less proportionately ‘white’ compared to the UK Census 2011 (80.3% vs. 87.2%) and experimental ONS2019 data (80.4% vs. 84.3%). CPRD-HES was aligned with the ethnic distribution from GDPPR-HES (‘white’ 80.4% vs. 80.7%); however, with a smaller proportion classified as ‘other’ (1.1% vs. 2.8%).

Conclusions

CPRD-HES has suitable representation of all ethnic categories with some overrepresentation of minority ethnic groups and a smaller proportion classified as ‘other’ compared to the UK general population from other data sources. CPRD-HES data is useful for studying health risks and outcomes in typically underrepresented groups.
Conservation and divergence of canonical and non-canonical imprinting in murids
Authors: Richard Albert Julien , Kobayashi Toshihiro , Inoue Azusa , Monteagudo-Sánchez Ana , Kumamoto Soichiro , Takashima Tomoya , Miura Asuka , Oikawa Mami , Miura Fumihito , Takada Shuji , Hirabayashi Masumi , Korthauer Keegan , Kurimoto Kazuki , Greenberg Maxim V. C. , Lorincz Matthew , Kobayashi Hisato
Published: March 2023

Background

Genomic imprinting affects gene expression in a parent-of-origin manner and has a profound impact on complex traits including growth and behavior. While the rat is widely used to model human pathophysiology, few imprinted genes have been identified in this murid. To systematically identify imprinted genes and genomic imprints in the rat, we use low input methods for genome-wide analyses of gene expression and DNA methylation to profile embryonic and extraembryonic tissues at allele-specific resolution.

Results

We identify 14 and 26 imprinted genes in these tissues, respectively, with 10 of these genes imprinted in both tissues. Comparative analyses with mouse reveal that orthologous imprinted gene expression and associated canonical DNA methylation imprints are conserved in the embryo proper of the Muridae family. However, only 3 paternally expressed imprinted genes are conserved in the extraembryonic tissue of murids, all of which are associated with non-canonical H3K27me3 imprints. The discovery of 8 novel non-canonical imprinted genes unique to the rat is consistent with more rapid evolution of extraembryonic imprinting. Meta-analysis of novel imprinted genes reveals multiple mechanisms by which species-specific imprinted expression may be established, including H3K27me3 deposition in the oocyte, the appearance of ZFP57 binding motifs, and the insertion of endogenous retroviral promoters.

Conclusions

In summary, we provide an expanded list of imprinted loci in the rat, reveal the extent of conservation of imprinted gene expression, and identify potential mechanisms responsible for the evolution of species-specific imprinting.
Curcumin-dependent phenotypic transformation of microglia mediates resistance to pseudorabies-induced encephalitis
Authors: Feng Luqiu , Luo Guodong , Li Yuhang , Zhang Chen , Liu Yuxuan , Liu Yanqing , Chen Hongyue , He Daoling , Zhu Yan , Gan Ling
Published: March 2023

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) causes viral encephalitis, a devastating disease with high mortality worldwide. Curcumin (CUR) can reduce inflammatory damage by altering the phenotype of microglia; however, whether and how these changes mediate resistance to PRV-induced encephalitis is still unclear. In this study, BV2 cells were infected with/without PRV for 24 h and further treated with/without CUR for 24 h. The results indicated that CUR promoted the polarization of PRV-infected BV2 cells from the M1 phenotype to the M2 phenotype and reversed PRV-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, M1 BV2 cell secretions induced signalling pathways leading to apoptosis in PC-12 neuronal cells, and this effect was abrogated by the secretions of M2 BV2 cells. RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis predicted that this phenotypic shift may be due to changes in energy metabolism. Furthermore, Western blot analysis showed that CUR inhibited the increase in AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation, glycolysis, and triacylglycerol synthesis and the reduction in oxidative phosphorylation induced by PRV infection. Moreover, the ATP levels in M2 BV2 cells were higher than those in M1 cells. Furthermore, CUR prevented the increase in mortality, elevated body temperature, slowed growth, nervous system excitation, brain tissue congestion, vascular cuffing, and other symptoms of PRV-induced encephalitis in vivo. Thus, this study demonstrated that CUR protected against PRV-induced viral encephalitis by switching the phenotype of BV2 cells, thereby protecting neurons from inflammatory injury, and this effect was mediated by improving mitochondrial function and the AMPK/NF-κB p65-energy metabolism-related pathway.
Nonstructural proteins 2B and 4A of Tembusu virus induce complete autophagy to promote viral multiplication in vitro
Authors: Tan Wangyang , Zhang Senzhao , He Yu , Wu Zhen , Wang Mingshu , Jia Renyong , Zhu Dekang , Liu Mafeng , Zhao Xinxin , Yang Qiao , Wu Ying , Zhang Shaqiu , Huang Juan , Mao Sai , Ou Xumin , Gao Qun , Sun Di , Tian Bin , Chen Shun , Cheng Anchun
Published: March 2023

Tembusu virus (TMUV) is an emerging flavivirus that has broken out in different regions of China. TMUV infection has been reported to induce autophagy in duck embryo fibroblast cells. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this autophagy induction remain unclear. Here, we explored the interactions between autophagy and TMUV and the effects of the structural and nonstructural proteins of TMUV on autophagy in vitro. Among our results, TMUV infection enhanced autophagy to facilitate viral replication in HEK293T cells. After pharmacologically inducing autophagy with rapamycin (Rapa), the replication of TMUV increased by a maximum of 14-fold compared with the control group. To determine which TMUV protein primarily induced autophagy, cells were transfected with two structural proteins and seven nonstructural proteins of TMUV. Western blotting showed that nonstructural proteins 2B (NS2B) and 4 A (NS4A) of TMUV significantly induced the conversion of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) from LC3-I to LC3-II in HEK293T cells. In addition, through immunofluorescence assays, we found that NS2B and NS4A significantly increased the punctate fluorescence of GFP-LC3-II. Furthermore, we found that both NS2B and NS4A interacted with polyubiquitin-binding protein sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1/p62) in a coimmunoprecipitation assay. Moreover, the autophagic degradation of p62 and LC3 mediated by NS2B or NS4A was inhibited by treatment with the autophagic flux inhibitor chloroquine (CQ). These results confirmed the vital effects of NS2B and NS4A in TMUV-induced complete autophagy and clarified the importance of complete autophagy for viral replication, providing novel insight into the relationship between TMUV and autophagy.
Orf virus induces complete autophagy to promote viral replication via inhibition of AKT/mTOR and activation of the ERK1/2/mTOR signalling pathway in OFTu cells
Authors: Lv Lijun , Guan Jiyu , Zhen Ruixue , Lv Pin , Xu Mengshi , Liu Xingyuan , He Shishi , Fang Ziyu , Li Zi , Lan Yungang , Lu Huijun , He Wenqi , Gao Feng , Zhao Kui
Published: March 2023

Orf virus (ORFV) is the causative agent of contagious ecthyma, which is an important zoonotic pathogen with a widespread distribution affecting sheep, goats and humans. Our previous research showed that autophagy can be induced in host cells by ORFV infection. However, the exact mechanism of ORFV-induced autophagy remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the underlying mechanisms of autophagy induced by ORFV in OFTu cells and the impact of autophagy on ORFV replication. By using specific autophagy inhibitors and activators, Western blotting, immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy imaging, we confirmed that ORFV infection triggered intracellular autophagosome accumulation and the activation of autophagic flux. Moreover, ORFV-induced autophagic activity was found to rely on an increase in the phosphorylation of tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (TSC2) and a decrease in the phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), which is mediated by the suppression of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway and activation of the ERK1/2/mTOR signalling pathway. Furthermore, we investigated the role of mTOR-mediated autophagy during ORFV replication using pharmacological agents and demonstrated that ORFV-induced autophagy correlated positively with viral replication. Taken together, our data reveal the pathways of ORFV-induced autophagy and the impact of autophagy on ORFV replication, providing new insights into ORFV pathogenesis.
Forest fires and climate attributes interact in central Himalayas: an overview and assessment
Authors: Mina Usha , Dimri A. P. , Farswan Sandhya
Published: March 2023

Background

In Uttarakhand, a state in northern India, forest fire events increased from 922 in 2002 to 41,600 in 2019, influencing forest structure and function. In the literature, it has been reported that, globally, climate change influences the intensity and expansion of forest fire events. However, with regard to Uttarakhand, studies on the relationship between climate and forest fire events were very limited. In this study, a brief review of Uttarakahand state forests, forest fire types, forest biomass carbon stock, and factors influencing forest fires was carried out, followed by assessment of the relationships between forest fires and climate attributes.

Results

This study indicated that there was a positive and significant correlation between the number of forest fires and temperature (maximum, average, and diurnal range; 0.05 ≥ P ≤ 0.001); whereas, there was a negative and non-significant correlation of forest fire with relative humidity, and a non-significant correlation of forest fire with minimum temperature and wind. The Ångstrom index and Fuel Moisture Index were found to be good indices to indicate the prevalence of favorable climatic conditions for forest fire. The results of the study indicated a vulnerability of forest floor biomass carbon to forest fire.

Conclusion

Temperature was a regulating factor in altering the forest fire potential in the district. Forest fire caused the loss of carbon sequestered in forest biomass carbon stock. In the future, due to climate change, a greater number of forest fire events may occur and disturb the carbon cycle.