bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cationic polymer contributes to broaden the spectrum of vancomycin activity achieving eradication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Alovero Fabiana L. , Corti Melisa B. , Campagno Luciana P. , Romero Verónica L. , Gutierrez Silvina
Published: February 2022

Vancomycin (VAN) is unable to penetrate the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and reach the target site. One approach to overcome this limitation is to associate it with compounds with permeabilizing or antimicrobial properties. EudragitE100® (Eu) is a cationic polymer insufficiently characterized for its potential antimicrobial action. Eu-VAN combinations were characterized, the antimicrobial efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa was evaluated and previous studies on the effects of Eu on bacterial envelopes were extended. Time-kill assays showed eradication of P.aeruginosa within 3-6 h exposure to Eu-VAN, whilst VAN was ineffective. Eu showed regrowth in 24 h and delayed colony pigmentation. Although permeabilization of bacterial envelopes or morphological alterations observed by TEM and flow cytometry after exposure to Eu were insufficient to cause bacterial death, they allowed access of VAN to the target site, since Eu-VAN/Van-FL-treated cultures showed fluorescent staining in all bacterial cells, indicating Van-FL internalization. Consequently, Eu potentiated the activity of an otherwise inactive antibiotic against P. aeruginosa . Moreover, Eu-VAN combinations exhibited improved physicochemical properties and could be used in the development of therapeutic alternatives in the treatment of bacterial keratitis.
A male-specific cell line from the African malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae: Establishment and a comparative transcriptomic analysis
Authors: Krzywinska Elzbieta , Ferretti Luca , Krzywinski Jaroslaw
Published: February 2022

Cell lines allow studying various biological processes that may not be easily tractable in whole organisms. Here, we have established the first male-specific cell line from the African malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. The cells, named AgMM and derived from the sex-sorted neonate larvae, were able to undergo spontaneous contractions for a number of passages following establishment, indicating their myoblast origin. Comparison of their transcriptome to the transcriptome of an A. gambiae-derived Sua5.1 hemocyte cells revealed distinguishing molecular signatures of each cell line, including numerous muscle-related genes that were highly and uniquely expressed in the AgMM cells. Moreover, the AgMM cells express the primary sex determiner gene Yob and support male sex determination and dosage compensation pathways. Therefore, the AgMM cell line represents a valuable tool for molecular and biochemical in vitro studies of these male-specific processes. In a broader context, a rich transcriptomic data set generated in this study contributes to a better understanding of transcribed regions of the A. gambiae genome and sheds light on the biology of both cell types, facilitating their anticipated use for various cell-based assays.
Bioinformatics Approaches to Identify Novel Therapeutic Targets of Mixed Dementia
Authors: Zhang Jing , Huang Qifeng , Zhou Yiting
Published: February 2022

Background
Mixed dementia (MxD) refers to a patient's coexistence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD). Until recently, pharmacological studies have generally focused on pure disease, AD or VaD, and have shed little light on the best therapeutic approaches to MxD. Therefore this study aimed to explore potential targets for MxD.
Methods
GSE36980 and GSE122063 datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). GEO2R was utilized to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GSE36980 between MxD and control groups. Then the genes in the top 50% of the median absolute deviation (MAD) with at least MAD greater than 0.01 and phenotypes of samples in GSE36980 were analyzed using R package “weighted gene co-expression network analysis” (WGCNA). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment were analyzed on the selected dark green module genes. Protein-protein interactions analyses were performed in the STRING database and key genes were screened based on the maximal clique centrality (MCC) and maximum neighborhood component (MNC) algorithm of Cytoscape software. Key genes were then verified in external dataset GSE122063.
Results
There were 162 DEGs identified, including 121 up-regulated and 41 down-regulated genes. And the dark green module was the mostly related to MxD, among which, 43 genes were also DEGs in GSE36980 datasets. The most significantly enriched biological processes were the type I interferon signaling pathway (GO:0060337, P = 1.79E-25) and defense response to virus (GO:0051607, P = 2.34E-22). Due to the highest scores received, STAT1, IFIT3, OAS2, and MX1 may play crucial roles in MxD. Finally, test in external dataset GSE122063, STAT1, and IFIT3 were significantly up-regulated in AD patients.
Conclusions
In conclusion, STAT1 and IFIT3 may serve as potential targets for the pathogenesis of MxD, which should be further explored in the future.
Exploring the Interaction of Influenza A Subtypes H1N1 and H3N2 Based on an Evolution-driven Transmission Model
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhang Bing , Liang Shiwen , Tang Feng , Zhao Yang , Tian Dechao , Du Xiangjun
Published: February 2022

Two influenza A subtypes (H1N1 and H3N2) co-circulate and pose a serious disease burden globally. It is unclear about the extent of cross protection between these two influenza A subtypes as well as the impact of cross protection on influenza dynamics. Based on an evolution-driven mathematical transmission model, the interaction between H1N1 and H3N2 was explored based on monthly incidence data in United States from the year 2012 to 2019. Results showed that significant cross protection between H1N1 and H3N2 exists. Besides, the cross protection for H1N1 from H3N2 is much stronger than the other way around. Results also show that cross protection between H1N1 and H3N2 have substantial influence on the epidemics. The model was also validated in Germany, Austria and Norway. A forecasting framework was proposed based on the model with feasible accuracy for both retrospective and prospective forecasts of H1N1 and H3N2 in United States. Our findings quantify and highlight the importance of cross protection on the co-circulating of seasonal influenza A H1N1 and H3N2.
Ferroptosis-related genes coordinated with PD-L2 shapes matrix stiffness-driven tumor environment and predict hepatocellular carcinoma development
Authors: Shunxi Wang , Long Chen , Wanqian Liu
Published: February 2022

Background: Ferroptosis have been implicated in tumorigenesis, tumor progression, and immuno-therapy in cirrhotic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), indicating its association with extracellular matrix stiffness and immune checkpoint inhibitor. Here, we postulated that increased matrix stiffness reduces ferroptosis and impairs tumor immunity by regulating the expression of ferroptosis- and immune-related genes in HCC, which might be a robust predictor of therapeutic efficacy.Methods: Using publicly available tissue microarray datasets, liver cancer rat model, and clinical specimen, ferroptosis-related differential genes in cirrhotic HCC and its mechanical heterogeneous pattern of expression were screened and identified. Further investigation on the underlying mechanism of matrix stiffness-regulated ferroptosis and the expression of immune mediator were performed.Results: SLC7A11 and STEAP3 were identified as the ferroptosis-related differential genes in cirrhotic HCC, especially induced by HBV and HCV virus. Stiffer matrix increased SLC7A11 and decreased STEAP3 in the invasive front area of HCC and the liver cirrhotic tissue. Contrarily, softer matrix reduced SLC7A11 and induced STEAP3 in the central area of HCC and the normal liver tissue. Immunological correlation of SLC7A11 and STEAP3 in cirrhotic HCC showed that SLC7A11- or STEAP3-mediated immune infiltration of CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells and HCC prognosis, predicting to regulate immune infiltration. Knockdown of SLC7A11 or overexpression of STEAP3 induced ferroptosis and inhibited the expression of immune mediator of PD-L2 on a stiff matrix.Conclusions: This finding identifies matrix stiffness impairs ferroptosis and anti-tumor immunity by mediating SLC7A11, STEAP3, and PD-L2, and thus targeting it could be a potential diagnosis and treatment strategy for HCC.
Diffractive Encryption: A Brand-New Chaotic Encryption Model
Authors: Hu Anqi , Gong Xiaoxue , Guo Lei
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we propose a brand-new chaotic encryption model that defines operations based on the data, which named Diffractive Encryption. We take a specific encryption algorithm as an example to prove the excellent effect and high security of the model. Unlike the existing encryption methods, the ciphertext generated by our encryption model hardly carries any data-related information, i.e. the plaintext does not directly participate in the encryption operation to form the ciphertext. Finally, we make a more objective security analysis of the encryption algorithm in this paper with the perspective of traditional security analysis. In the field of Chaotic Cryptography, this is a disruptive idea, and may become a new research direction.
Asymmetrical Response by Zooplankton to Hurricanes: Post-Harvey Communities are Distinct from Other Hurricane and Non-Storm Years
Authors: Topor Zachary Michael , Genung Mark , Robinson Kelly Lynn
Published: February 2022

Tropical cyclones can highly modify coastal ecosystems through interactions between their unique set of meteorological traits and an ecosystem’s antecedent conditions. As such, resultant changes to biological community structure are likely storm-specific, yet our understanding of cyclone effects on marine communities is limited compared to communities in terrestrial and freshwater habitats. Using Gulf of Mexico (GOM) mesozooplankton data, we tested: (1) for differences between storm and non-storm community structure and dispersion; (2) if post-storm communities varied between one another; (3) if salinity drove differences; and (4) if physical drivers of abundance and evenness varied between storm and non-storm communities. Mesozooplankton community structure following Hurricanes Harvey, Ike, Rita, and during five non-storm years were analyzed. Post-Ike, post-Rita, and non-storm communities were similar while post-Harvey communities were distinct. A structural equation model revealed stratification and abundance drove community evenness. Post-Harvey mesozooplankton were more abundant in low salinity waters; a pattern muted during all other years. NW GOM mesozooplankton community structure was generally resilient to hurricane effects, except when large changes in salinity occurred. Our findings suggest resource availability for planktivorous predators and energy transfer within coastal food webs is altered following cyclones with high precipitation rates.
Nano zero-valent iron assisted microbial electrosynthesis for medium-chain fatty acids production
Authors: Wu Ping , Zhang Jie , Li Jing , Zhang Yan , Fu Bo , Xu Mingyi , Zhang Yifeng , Liu He
Published: February 2022

Background: Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) has been considered a promising platform for carboxylic acids production using homoacetogenic and chain-elongating bacteria. However, this biotechnology is still in its infancy, and many limitations are needed to be transcended, such as low electron transfer efficiency between cathode and microbes.Results: In this study, nano zero-valent iron (NZVI) was employed to improve carboxylic acid production in the MES system. The final accumulated acetate, butyrate, and caproate concentration enhanced from 700.1, 53.6, and 11.8 mg/L to 1.6, 1.1, and 0.7 g/L, with the maximum yield on bicarbonate of 20.7%, 18.7%, and 13.7%, respectively. Besides performing as an additional electron donor, NZVI was also proven to facilitate the formation of electroactive biofilms according to the results of DNA concentration. In addition, it was found that the anaerobic corrosion of NZVI promoted the domination of hydrogen-producing bacteria Paraclostridium, with the increasing relative abundance from 16.78% to 44.18% in the biofilm under open-circuit mode. While under the closed-circuit, the presence of NZVI resulted in significantly higher relative abundances of homoacetogenic bacteria (Terrisporobacter: 20.91%) and chain-elongating bacteria (Clostridium-sensu-stricto-12: 11.8%) in biofilm than in the catholyte (2.18% and 1.63% correspondingly).Conclusions: This study provided the evidence and revealed how NZVI assisted carboxylic acid production in MES and contributes to the application prospects of MES for carbon utilization and energy sustainability.
Interleukin-33 and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 in scleroderma cardiac involvement
Authors: Iannazzo Francesco , Pellicano Chiara , Colalillo Amalia , Ramaccini Cesarina , Romaniello Antonella , Gigante Antonietta , Rosato Edoardo
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Interleukin (IL)-33 is part of the IL-1 family of cytokines and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) is part of the family of IL-1 receptors. In systemic sclerosis (SSc), IL-33 and sST2 are involved in cardiac manifestations such as diastolic dysfunction (DD), autonomic dysfunction (AD) and right ventricular–pulmonary arterial coupling assessed by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE)/systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP).Methods: Serum levels of IL33 and sST2 were assessed in 50 SSc patients and 14 healthy controls (HC). Clinical assessment, echocardiography and heart rate variability (HRV) analysis were performed in SSc patients. Results: Serum levels of IL-33 and sST2 were significantly higher in SSc patients than HC. A linear positive correlation between modified Rodnan skin score and IL33 was observed. Serum values of sST2 were higher in SSc patients with DD than in patients without DD [15403 pg/ml (12208-19941) vs 8556 pg/ml (6820-11036), p<0.001]. sST2 showed a negative correlation with standard deviation of normal-to-normal RR intervals (SDNN) (r=-0,281, p<0.05) and positive correlation with low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) (r=0,349, p<0.01). Negative linear correlation exists between sST2 and TAPSE/sPAP (r=-0.398, p<0.01).Conclusion: Serum levels of IL-33 and sST2 are higher in SSc patients than HC. Serum levels of sST2 are a potential marker of DD, AD and right ventricular–pulmonary arterial coupling.
Modulation instability and rogue waves for the sixth-order nonlinear Schro¨dinger equation with variable coefficients on a periodic background
Authors: Shi Wei , Zhaqilao Z.
Published: February 2022

In this paper, rogue wave solutions of a sixth-order focusing nonlinear Schr¨odinger (NLS) equation with variable coefficients are investigated on a periodic background. To get the results, we take advantage of Darboux transformation approach and the nonlinearization of spectral problem and we firstly find one kind of rogue wave solution evolves periodically with time on a periodically spatial background. Modulation instability (MI) of the sixth-order focusing NLS equation with variable coefficients is also studied.
Implications of Bacteriological Study in Complicated and Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Cimpean Sorin , Barranquero Alberto Gonzalez , Surdeanu Ion , Cadiere Benjamin , Cadiere Guy-Bernard
Published: February 2022

BackgroundThe bacteriological sample in the presence of intraabdominal free fluid is necessary to adapt the antibiotherapy and to prevent the development of resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences between uncomplicated (UAA) and complicated acute appendicitis (CAA) in terms of bacterial culture results and antibiotic resistance, and to evaluate the predictors for complicated appendicitis.Material and methodsWe performed a single-centre, retrospective observational study of all consecutive patients who presented with appendicular peritonitis and underwent emergent surgery in a tertiary referral hospital in Brussels, Belgium, between January 2013 and December 2020. 268 patients were analysed in term of medical history, parameters at admission, bacterial culture, antibiotic resistance and postoperative outcomes.ResultsThe positive microbiological culture rate was significantly higher in CAA group (68.2 % vs. 53.4 %). The most frequently isolated bacteria in UAA and CAA cultures were E. coli (37.9 % and 48.6 %), bacteria from the Streptoccocus anginosus group (9.3 % and 7.8 %), and Bacteroides spp. (5 % and 13.1 %). The most commonly observed resistances were against ampicillin (28.9 % and 21.7 %) and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (16.4 % and 10.5 %) in UAA and CAA, respectively. The predictors for complicated appendicitis were preoperative or intraoperative variables. Neither the culture results, the group of bacterial isolation nor the specific isolated bacteria predicted a complicated appendicitis.Conclusion CAA presented a higher rate of positive cultures with increased identification of Gram negative bacteria. There were not relevant differences in terms of antibiotic resistance.
The stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, cancer stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and B7-H4 expression in ovarian serous carcinoma
Authors: Choi Kyung Un , Hwang Chungsu , Lee Hyun Jung , Kim Ki Hyung , Na Ju-Young , Song Yong Jung , Kim Jee Yeon , Kim Kyungbin , Shin Dong Hoon , Park Joon Young , Kim So Young , Lee Jung Hee
Published: February 2022

Background B7-H4 is expressed in various types of cancers and its expression inversely correlates with the degree of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Studies have shown the relationship between B7-H4, cancer stem cell (CSC) properties, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in various cancers. However, very few studies have investigated the relationship between B7-H4, TILs, cancer stemness, and EMT in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). The present study aimed to elucidate whether B7-H4 is involved in immune evasion and examine whether B7-H4 is associated with cancer stemness or EMT in ovarian serous carcinoma, the most common type of EOC. The clinical significance of B7-H4 was also investigated to evaluate its potential as a therapeutic target.MethodsA total of 145 patients included in this study. The degree of stromal TILs was evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained slides. Immunohistochemical analysis of B7-H4, CSC-related biomarkers (CD24, CD44s, CD133, and ALDH1), and EMT-related biomarkers (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin) was performed using tissue microarray. qRT-PCR for VTCN1, CD24, CD44, PROM1, ALDH1, CDH1, CDH2, and VIM genes was performed on 38 frozen tissue samples. The mRNA expression levels were analyzed using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) online analysis tool.ResultsB7-H4 protein expression positively correlated with the degree of stromal TILs. CD24, CD44s, and CD133 expression showed a positive correlation with B7-H4 expression at both the protein and mRNA levels, but ALDH1 correlated only at the protein level. E-cadherin expression was positively correlated with B7-H4 expression at both the protein and mRNA levels. N-cadherin and vimentin expression was inversely related to B7-H4 expression only at the mRNA level. B7-H4 positive patients were associated with higher tumor grade and lower overall survival rate than B7-H4 negative patients, especially in ovarian serous carcinoma with low stromal TILs.ConclusionsThe present study demonstrates that B7-H4 may not be involved in the immune evasion mechanism, but is involved in cancer stemness and mesenchymal-epithelial transition. In addition, B7-H4 may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of ovarian serous carcinoma, especially with low stromal TILs.
Entanglement Dynamics and Quantum Dense Encoding of Heisenberg Spin Chain in Non-Markovian Environment
Authors: Tang ShiSheng
Published: February 2022

Quantum entanglement is a special nonlocal association between quantum systems. It is a fundamental feature of the difference between quantum and classical. At the same time, it acts as a very important resource in quantum informatics. Therefore, entanglement plays a noble role in quantum information and quantum computing. Quantum dense coding, as an application of quantum entanglement in practice, is a quantum communication protocol characterized by security and secrecy, which plays a very important role in quantum informatics and cryptography. This paper is mainly in the Non-Markovian environment of Heisenberg Spin chain system, using the quantum dense coding scheme proposed by Bennett et al. to study The dynamics of quantum dense coding channel capacity evolution with time and the entanglement dynamics of the system are discussed in detail.Based on the theoretical knowledge of open quantum systems and the maximum entangled state \(\left| {{{\mathbf{\psi }}_{{\mathbf{AB}}}}} \right\rangle =\frac{1}{{\sqrt 2 }}\left( {\left| {11} \right\rangle +\left| {00} \right\rangle } \right)\) as the initial state, the density matrix of the system evolution over time is obtained by quantum state diffusion method,and the evolution of channel capacity and entanglement over time of Heisenberg spin chains is simulated accurately. The results show that: the capacity and entanglement of dense coded channel oscillate with time and reach different stable values. Environmental correlation coefficient\(\gamma\)and coupling strength\(\eta\)and a play an important role in dense coding and quantum entanglement of quantum systems.Proper selection of parameters can keep the system good entanglement characteristics and increase the channel capacity\(\chi\)of the system, thus ensuring the effective transmission and processing of quantum information in practice. It lays a solid foundation for quantum computing
Trajectories of medical care expenditure in the last year of life and long-term care utilization in frail older adults: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kono Ayumi , Yoshiyuki Noriko , Ishihara Takuma , Fukushima Naomi , Miura Takeshi , Kaneko Katsunori
Published: February 2022

Background: Medical care and long-term care utilization in the last year of life of frail older adults could be a key indicator of their quality of life.This study aimed to identify the medical care expenditure trajectories in the last year of life of frail older adults and to investigate the association beween medical care expenditu and long-term care utilization in each trajectory.Methods: The population-based retrospective cohort study of three municipalities in Japan included 405 decedents (median age at death, 85 years; 189 women [46.7%]) from a cohort of 1,658 frail older adults aged ≥65 years who were newly certified as support level in the long-term care insurance program from April 2012 to March 2013. This study used long-term care and medical insurance claim data from April 2012 to March 2017. Primary outcome was medical care expenditure over the 12 months preceding death. Group-based trajectory modeling was conducted to identify the medical care expenditure trajectories and a mixed-effect model were employed to examine the association between long-term care utilization and medical care expenditure in each trajectory. Results: Participants were stratified into four groups based on medical care expenditure trajectories over the 12 months preceding death as follows: rising (n=159, 39.3%), persistently high (n=143, 35.3%), minimal (n=56, 13.8%), and descending (n=47, 11.6%) groups. The mixed-effects model revealed that home-based long-term care utilization increased medical care expenditure in the descending trajectory (coefficient, 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35–1.62). Facility-based long-term care utilization reduced medical care expenditure in the rising trajectory (coefficient, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.50–0.69). Both home-based (coefficient, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.85–0.99) and facility-based (coefficient; 0.53; 95% CI, 0.41–0.63) long-term care utilization reduced medical care expenditure in the persistently high trajectory. Conclusions: Four medical care expenditure trajectories in the last year of life of frail older adults were characterized according to long-term care utilization. These findings may facilitate the integration of medical and long-term care models at the end of life in frail older adults.
Robust synchronization motion tracking control for a two-slider system restrained by a flexible beam
Authors: Dou Haibin
Published: February 2022

This paper addresses the robust sync tracking control problem for a two-slider system where the motion of two sliders is restrained by a flexible beam. The system models are given at first. In the proposed models the dynamics of actuators are also considered. With employment of the models a novel variable gain sliding mode interval observer is proposed to estimate the external disturbances while reducing the system chattering caused by the conservative fixed gain. Then a tracking controller and an output restriction boundary controller for two sliders are designed. The tracking controller is used to tracking the desired trajectory and the output restriction boundary controller is used to restrict the deformation of the beam. The whole systems with the proposed controller are proved to be asymptotically stable by using traditional backstepping technology. Finally, numerical simulations illustrate that the proposed method are more effective compared with the existing method.
The Association of Trefoil Factors with Gastric Cancer and Premalignant Lesions: A4 Cross-Sectional Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Zan Xiangyi , Zhou Yongning
Published: February 2022

Background: A lack of research on the association of trefoil factors (TFFs) with gastriccancer (GC) and premalignant lesions (PMLs) in the general populations is an importantobstacle to the application of TFFs for GC screening. We aimed to analyze the associationof TFFs with GC and PMLs in a general population.Methods: We evaluated 3,986 adults residing in Wuwei, China. We collected baselinecharacteristics and GC risk factors, including TFFs, endoscopic diagnosis, and pathologicalinformation. Three logistic regression models were generated to analyze the associationbetween TFFs and GC, as well as PMLs. Adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidenceintervals (95% CI) were calculated to determine the strength of association.Results: Compared with pepsinogen (PG) and anti-Helicobacter pylori immunoglobulin Gantibody (Hp-IgG), TFFs had significant association with GC and PMLs after adjusting forbiomarkers and risk factors (P < 0.05). The ORs [95% CI] for TFF1 (1.67 [1.27–2.20]),TFF2 (2.66 [2.01–3.51]), and TFF3 (1.32 [1.00–1.74]) were larger than the ORs for PGI(0.79 [0.61–1.03]), PGI/II (1.00 [0.76–1.31]) and Hp-IgG (0.99 [0.73–1.35]) in the GCgroup. In intestinal metaplasia (IM) group, not only the TFF3 serum level was the highest,but also the OR (1.92 [1.64–2.25]) was the highest.Conclusions: Trefoil factor were associated with risk of GC and PMLs.Impact: Serum TFFs can improve the screening of high-risk populations for GC.
First report on Listeria monocytogenes detection in ready-to-eat chicken products in Bangladesh: A glimpse into their antibiotic resistance and virulence genes.
Authors: Shourav Abiral Hasib , Salma Khandokar Padmanon , Ahmed Sangita , Khan Anisur Rahman
Published: February 2022

Background: Ready-to-eat (RTE) meat products are food items that are growing in popularity in Bangladesh. Albeit documented with alarming prevalence of pathogenic multidrug-resistant Listeria species in these food items worldwide, studies from the perspective of Bangladesh are absent. This study was devised with an aim to detect pathogenic Listeria monocytogenes in some of the most popular RTE meat products in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods: Thirty-nine such samples were investigated using biochemical tests and the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analysis. The samples were RTE food products randomly collected from various departmental stores in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Following confirmatory tests and detection of Listeria species, the isolates were subjected to the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion test to investigate their antibiotic-susceptibility patterns agains some of the most commonly used antibiotics to treat listeriosis – the infection caused my Listeria. Results: Five Listeria species were detected using the biochemical and PCR tests. This constituted an overall prevalence rate of 12.8% (n = 39). Four out of the five Listeria species were concluded to be L. monocytogenes, while the remaining one was a L. innocua isolate. PCR analysis revealed all four of the L. monocytogenes isolates to have the virulence genes hlyA, plcB and actA, although no polymorphism was detected for these genes. Despite the presence of these pathogenic genes, antibiotic susceptibility tests showed promising results as some of the most commonly used drugs against listeriosis were highly effective against the isolates. Conclusion: Despite the fact that the isolates showed little to no antibiotic resistances against the antibiotics used in the study, the presence of three virulence genes in all four L. monocytogenes isolates is still a cause for concern. Even more so, the prevalence of these pathogenic strains in a food item that is increasing in popularity in a country like Bangladesh, where awareness and surveillance against listeriosis is limited, can have dire consequences should an outbreak occurs.
Genomic analyses identify signaling pathways and biological processes in small and large melanoma
Authors: Qian Zhiwen , Chang Tingxiang , Zhang Tingting , Gu Hanming , Wang Jing
Published: February 2022

Melanoma is a skin malignancy that involves different signaling pathways with different sizes and phenotypes. However, the mechanism and function of small and large melanoma are unknown. Here, the aim of this study is to identify the functional molecules and signaling pathways by analyzing the RNA-seq data. The GSE164357 was created by the Illumina MouseWG-6 v2.0 expression bead chip. The KEGG and GO analyses indicated that Antigen processing and presentation and Phagosome are the main processes between the large and small melanoma. Moreover, we identified ten interactive molecules including STAT1, TTN, CALR, ACTA1, FN1, TNNT3, MYL1, TNNI2, RHOA, and TCAP. Therefore, our study may help to further understand the mechanism of melanoma.
Bacterial Brain Abscess Early Treated with Oral Antibiotics in A Case Series of Immunocompetent Adult Patients: Could This Be A Feasible Therapy?
Authors: Dentale Nicola , Coladonato Simona , Zaghi Irene , Spinardi Luca , De Martino Sara Rosa Maria , Viale Pierluigi
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND.
We report the preliminary observation of community acquired brain abscess in immunocompetent adult patients early treated with high penetrating oral antibiotics, even without microbiological isolation, that showed good outcome.
METHODS.
A retrospective analysis of eight patients being managed for brain abscess who underwent early oral antimicrobial therapy is reported. Data collected of age, sex, co-morbidity, risk factors, diameter of the abscess, microbiological findings, management of therapy, focusing on its early shift to oral regimen and outcome after one year of follow-up.
RESULTS.
Two of eight patients, with a mean age of 59,3 years, required neurosurgery, in 3 case we found positive microbiological samples. The medium length from initial i.v. therapy to per os regimen was 7,7 and the medial length of the complete course of therapy was 58 days. Most of them received the same empiric antimicrobial therapy with levofloxacin and linezolid, because of their high oral bioavailability and optimal penetration into brain barrier. All the patients had clinical improvement and showed no signs of persistent cerebral abscess at one year of follow-up.
CONCLUSIONS.
Cerebral abscess is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, nevertheless, in selected cases, it can be treated with antimicrobial therapy per os, even in case of negative microbiological samples. Oral antimicrobial therapy could be non inferior to intravenous antibiotic therapy, moreover it has advantages reducing time of hospital stay and improving quality of life and patient compliance to long period of antimicrobial treatment.
The clinical prediction factors for non-culprit lesion progression in patients with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction after primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: wang jian , Yan Cheng-ying
Published: February 2022

Background
To investigate the relationship between the clinical features and progression of non-culprit lesions in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI).
Methods
A total of 480 patients (57.1 ± 9.2 y) with STEMI who underwent PPCI between January 2016 and December 2017 in Beijing Anzhen Hospital were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent PPCI as a treatment for culprit lesions. Clinical and angiographic follow-up were performed for 12 months. All patients were divided into a non-culprit lesions (NCL) progression group (205 cases) and a control group (275 cases) based on angiographic follow-up outcomes at 12 months. The clinical and angiographic features were analyzed.
Results
Body mass index (BMI), serum creatinine (Scr), fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated serum albumin, glycated hemoglobin and homocysteine levels in the NCL progression group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). A logistic regression analysis showed that FBG (odds ratio = 1.274, 95% confidence interval: 1.077–1.505, P=0.005) and Scr (odds ratio = 1.020, 95% confidence interval: 1.002–1.038, P=0.027) were independent predictors of NCL progression. A partial correlation analysis showed that FBG was positively correlated with NCL progression (r = 0.231, P=0.001). A receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the boundary point of FBG to predict NCL progression was 5.715 mmol/L, and the sensitivity was 74.4% and the specificity was 46.4%.
Conclusions
FBG is a valuable predictor for NCL progression in patients with STEMI after PPCI.
Calculation of the optimal number of nurses based on nursing intensity by patient classification groups in general units in South Korea: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ko Yukyung , Park Bohyun
Published: February 2022

Background: Calculating the accurate number of nursing personnel based on a patient classification system that clearly reflects the nursing needs of patients is a problem directly related to the nursing unit’s budget management, productivity, etc. This study aimed to calculate the total daily nursing workload and the optimal number of nurses per general unit based on the nursing intensity and direct nursing time per inpatient through patient classification.Methods: Three units at one general hospital were investigated. To calculate nursing intensity, patient classification according to nursing needs was performed for over 10 days in each unit in September 2018. The direct and non-direct nursing time and nursing intensity scores were analyzed using descriptive statistics (e.g. frequency, percentage, and average) generated using Microsoft Excel.Results: For the internal medicine unit, the average direct nursing time per patient was 1.0, 1.5, 2.2, and 2.9 hours for Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. For the surgical unit, the average direct nursing time per patient was 0.9, 1.4, 2.1, and 2.6 hours for Groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. For the comprehensive nursing care unit, the average direct nursing time per patient was 0.8, 1.2, 1.7, and 2.2 hours for Groups 1, 2, 3, and 4. The optimal number of nurses was 25 in the internal medicine unit, 37 in the surgical unit, and 22 in the comprehensive nursing unit. There was a shortage of five nurses in the internal medicine unit and nine in the surgical unit.Conclusion: Based on the nursing time according to patient classification groups, this study confirmed that the optimal number of nurses cannot be secured and that the nursing intensity is very high. This study’s results suggest that long-term efforts, such as improving the nursing environment, should be made to secure an optimal number of nurses in various hospital nursing units.
Nutrition in the Nursing Home: Expectation vs Reality
Authors: Garg Anu , Szymanski Kate , Merugu Ganesh
Published: February 2022

Background: Determine the nutritional value of the food provided to the average patient in the nursing home and compare to the guidelines for the age matched community dwelling individual. Methods: We obtained weekly meal plans. Nutritional value of each meal was calculated from the USDA food composition database with reference to the supply company. The 3 nursing homes ranged in ownership and in star rating and averaged 120 beds per facility. Food companies were comparable. Results: Patients received 1.58 cups of vegetables with a standard deviation (SD) of 0.31 daily. 1.26 cups of fruit (SD of 0.08) and 0.79 cups of dairy (SD 0.26) daily. Average of 5,308mg of sodium (SD 770.4) daily. 474.08 mg of added sugar (SD 137.88) daily. Saturated fats were 10.86% (SD 0.01) of the calories. Conclusions: Intake of fruits, dairy and vegetables was below recommended levels. Calories and sodium were above recommended values. Added sugar and saturated fats were within recommendations. Several changes can be made to improve nutrition in the nursing home to bring the nutrition closer to expectations in the average community dwelling adult values. We recommend further study concerning interventions.
Varus and steep medial posterior tibial slope are risk factors for degenerative medial meniscus lesions
Authors: Xu Tao , Xu Liuhai , Li Xinzhi , Zhou You
Published: February 2022

Degenerative medial meniscus lesions(DMMLs) is different from other meniscus injuries, which have a high incidence and easy to miss diagnosis in the middle-aged and elderly. The present study was designed to identify the risk factors for DMMLs among an Asian sample. The experimental group included 121 patients（ones partly confirmed during arthroscopic surgery) with DMMLs and the control group included 51 patients with no pathological changes identified by using 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from January 2017 to January 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. By full-length anteroposterior radiographs of lower limbs in weight-bearing position of the two groups, the Hip-Knee-Ankle (HKA) angle in the coronal plane and the Medial Posterior Tibial Slope(MPTS) in the sagittal plane were measured by the MRI T1 sequence of the knee. The potential risk factors of DMMLs were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. The independent variables included gender, age, body mass index (BMI), occupational kneeling, Kellgren-Lawrence (K-L) grade, HKA, and MPTS. T-test analysis between the Experimental Group and the Control Group showed statistically significant differences in age (t=10.718, p<0.001), BMI (t=7.300, p<0.001), HKA (t=8.677, p<0.001), and MPTS (t=5.025, p<0.001). Chi-square test analysis between the two groups showed no statistically significant differences in gender (t=0.183, p=0.669) and occupational kneeling (t=0.339, p=0.560). Non-parametric analysis showed statistically significant differences in K-L (z=5.857, p<0.001) between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis showed that age, BMI, HKA, and MPTS were risk factors for DMMLs among the above-mentioned variables with statistically significant differences. Varus, steep MPTS, advancing age and obesity were risk factors for DMMLs.
The Effect of a Mobile-learning Curriculum on Improving Compliance to Quality Management Guidelines for HIV Rapid Testing Services in Rural Primary Healthcare Clinics, KwaZulu-natal, South Africa: a Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Chamane Nkosinothando , Ogunsakin Ropo Ebenezer , Tivani P. Phosa Mashamba-Thompson Prof
Published: February 2022

Background: Despite significant achievements made towards HIV testing, linkage to antiretroviral therapy treatment and viral load suppression, the Sub-Saharan region of Africa continues to be reported to have the highest prevalence of HIV/AIDS, with over 26 million people living with the disease. In light of the added burden on already overwhelmed health systems due to the Covid-19 pandemic, maintaining the reliability and accuracy of point-of-care diagnostics (POC) results is crucial to ensure the sustainability of quality service delivery. The integration of technology-based interventions into nurse education curricula is growing, to help prepare students for the current practice environment which requires access to large amounts of information. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a Mobile Learning (mLearning) Curriculum on improving the quality of HIV rapid testing services in rural clinics of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa.Methods: To achieve the aim of this study, pre-test and post-test audits were conducted in a quasi-experimental design. Eleven clinics of KZN, with the highest availability and usage of POC diagnostics were selected from a cross-sectional study survey to constitute the sample of this study. The World Health Organization On-site Monitoring Checklist-Assessment of Quality System was adapted and used as an audit tool to evaluate four key quality components. The effect of the mLearning curriculum on HIV testing quality improvement was determined through statistically comparing pre-audit and post-audit results. The independent samples t-test and the Levene’s test were employed to evaluate the equality of measured variables for the two groups. The relationships between variables were estimated using the Pearson pair wise correlation coefficient (p) and correlations were reported as significant at p < 0.05.Findings: A total of 11 clinics was audited at the pretest and 7 clinics were audited post-piloting of the mLearning curriculum. The estimated level of compliance of the participating clinics to quality HIV rapid testing guidelines ranged between poor and moderate quality. The mLearning curriculum was shown to have no statistically significant effect on the quality of POC diagnostic services provided in rural clinics of KZN.Conclusion: The mLearning curriculum was shown to have no statistically significant effect on the quality of HIV rapid testing services provided in participating clinics; however, multiple barriers to the full adoption of the piloted curriculum were identified. The provision of reliable technology devices and improved internet connection were recommended to enhance the adoption of technology-based interventions necessary to improve access to relevant learning material and updated information.
Socioeconomic Status and Metabolic Syndrome in Southwest Iran: Results from Hoveyzeh Cohort Study(HCS)
Authors: Saki Nader , Hashemi Seyed Jalal , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Rahimi Zahra , Rahim Fakher , Cheraghian Bahman
Published: February 2022

Background: Socioeconomic status (SES) strongly predicts morbidity and premature mortality, especially for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). However, the effect of these factors on Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is not clear yet. This study was conducted to assess the relationship between socioeconomic indicators and MetS.Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 10009 people aged 35-70 years enrolled from May 2016 to August 2018. The MetS was defined according to The Standard National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) - adult treatment panel III (ATP III) or NCEP-ATP III criteria. Demographics and socioeconomic data were gathered face to face by trained interviews. Also, lab, anthropometrics, and blood pressure measurements were assayed for participants. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between SES and MetS, adjusted for the potential confounding factors. Results: The overall prevalence of MetS in the participants was 39.1%. The crude odds ratios were statistically significant for all the assessed variables (p<0.05). After adjustment for age, sex, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol use as potential confounders, the results indicated significant direct independent associations between skill level (p=0.006) and Townsend index (p=0.002) with MetS. In contrast, no significant associations were seen between educational level and wealth status with MetS. Conclusion: The results of our study showed that SES is related to MetS. Among four assessed SES indicators, skilled levels and Townsend score had a stronger association with MetS. We recommend considering people's SES when interventional programs are planned and conducted on MetS in similar communities.
Risk Factors of Sleep Paralysis in A Population of Polish Students
Authors: Wróbel-Knybel Paulina , Flis Michał , Rog Joanna , Jalal Baland , Karakuła-Juchnowicz Hanna
Published: February 2022

Background: Sleep paralysis (SP) is a transit dissociative state associated with the REM sleep phase that affects approximately 28.3% of the student population during their lifetime. The reasons for the high prevalence of SP in the student population are not entirely clear. Research indicates possible influencing factors such as the intensification of anxiety symptoms, a tendency to worry, the presence of PTSD symptoms, and behavioral factors such as the consumption of psychoactive substances (caffeine, alcohol, nicotine) and poor sleep hygiene. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of SP and its risk factors in the Polish student population. Methods: The study used a battery online consisting of a set of questionnaires (a personal questionnaire, 2) the SP-EPQ, 3) the PCL -5, 4) the STAI-T, 5) the PSWQ). The questionnaire was sent via Facebook to 4500 randomly selected students from different universities in Poland. The questionnaire was completed by 2598 students. To unify the participant sample, people over 35 were excluded from the study (45 students). Ultimately, data from 2553 students were analyzed. Results: A total of 33.14% of individuals experienced at least one episode of SP in their lives. The highest odds ratio for SP was associated with: the presence of three or more health problems (OR: 2.3; p = 0.002), the presence of any mental disorder (OR: 1.77; p = 0.002), including mood disorders (OR: 2.07 ; p = 0.002), suffering from at least one somatic disorder (OR: 1.34; p = 0.002), a high level of anxiety as a constant personality trait (OR: 1.20; p = 0.035) and smoking (OR: 1.48; p = 0.0002), alcohol consumption (OR: 1.52; p <0.0001), physical activity (OR: 1.31; p = 0.001). Conclusions: The results of our research indicate that a large proportion of students experienced isolated sleep paralysis. Mental and somatic health problems and lifestyle factors were found to predispose to this disorder. Due to the numerous risk factors for SP, it is necessary to conduct additional research to confirm the impact of these factors and to investigate the mechanisms of their influence on SP.