bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights of under-water trophic interaction: A scenario in Chilika through the lens of Ecopath
Authors: Swain Prajna Ritambhara , Parida Pranaya Kumar , Das Basanta Kumar , Behera Bijay Kumar
Published: December 2022

Tropical ecosystems show tortuous trophic interaction/network for the ease flow of energy or matter among its components. Being one of the fundamental principles of ecology, the trophic interaction narrates the overview of feeding strategies, food habits of inhabitants or feeding patterns, food items of predators, and the ecological roles of the organisms in a particular ecosystem in terms of the prey-predator relationship. Ecological concepts like “keystone species”, “niche overlap” and “electivity or selection of diet” are part of it. In this investigation, the feeding interaction of the Chilika lagoon ecosystem has been appraised. Chilika lagoon is a well-known tropical ecosystem having a complex food network system of various flora and fauna including more than 200 species of finfish and shellfish. In this study, the “keystone species of the Chilika lagoon ecosystem”, “niche overlap pattern” and the “electivity” through the mass balanced ecopath model were investigated. In the keystone analysis, three keystone indices (KS1, KS2 and KS3) were applied and the groups like Irrawaddy dolphin, croakers and perches were identified as keystone species by more than two keystone indices. Based on the niche overlap study, 108 pairs were identified. Groups like prawns and crabs were found as the most niche overlapping group among all the organisms and contributed about 13 and 11 number pairs among the 108 niche sharing pairs. Similarly, the electivity of the ecological groups was analysed, and interestingly, almost all groups were showing negative index values for detritus and macrophytes. Benthic groups like prawns and crabs play a crucial ecological role in the food web dynamics of Chilika lagoon. This study will be helpful to understand the complex interaction among different trophic groups of Chilika.
Molecular identification of Taenia hydatigena from goats in Khishig-Undur, Mongolia
Authors: Janchiv Temuujin , Chultemsuren Yeruult , Zagd Amarbayasgalan , Tangad Mungunzaya , Baldandorj Bolorchimeg , Badrakh Burmaa , Tileubai Akhit , Uudus Bayarsaikhan , Wandra Toni , Budke Christine M , Janchiv Khulan , Badrakh Ochirkhuyag , Narankhajid Myadagsuren
Published: December 2022

Cysticercosis, a parasitic infection caused by the larval form of the tapeworm Taenia hydatigena, is a global challenge to the livestock industry. In this study, 56 goats slaughtered in Khishig-Undur, Mongolia, were evaluated for the presence of cystic lesions. The mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene was analyzed for collected cysts to determine genetic variability. In total, 46.4% (26/56) of the evaluated goats were positive for T. hydatigena infection, with most of the cysts found attached to the omentum, mesentery, liver, or spleen. Partial 12S rRNA gene sequences were obtained from all evaluated cysts and aligned with known sequences for T. hydatigena. Infection prevalence was higher in goats three years of age and older (50.0%; 17/34) than in goats less than three years of age (40.9%; 9/22), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.356). No significant differences were noted in infections between male (38.1%; 8/21) and female (51.4%; 18/35) animals (p = 0.245). Infection with T. hydatigena appears to be highly prevalent in goats in Khishig-Undur; however, additional studies are needed to evaluate local parasite transmission dynamics and the impact of this parasite on local livestock production.
Reducing Primary Cesarean Delivery Rate Through Implementation of a Smart Intrapartum Surveillance System in a Labor and Delivery Unit
Authors: Cheng Po Jen , Cheng You Hung , Shaw Sheng Wen , Jang Hung Chi
Published: December 2022

The rapid changes in clinical maternity situations that occur in a labor and delivery unit can lead to unpredictable maternal and newborn morbidities. Cesarean section (CS) rate is a key indicator of the accessibility and quality of a labor and delivery unit. This retrospective cross-sectional study assesses the nulliparous, term, singleton, vertex (NTSV) cesarean delivery rates before and after the implementation of a smart intrapartum surveillance system. Research data were collected from the electronic medical records of a labor and delivery unit. The primary outcome was the CS rate of the NTSV population. The data of 3648 women admitted for delivery were analyzed. Of the studied deliveries, 1760 and 1888 occurred during the preimplementation and postimplementation periods, respectively. The CS rate for the NTSV population was 31.0% and 23.3% during the preimplementation and postimplementation periods, respectively, indicating a significant 24.7% (p = 0.014) reduction in CS rate after the implementation of the smart intrapartum surveillance system (relative risk, 0.75; 95% confidence interval, 0.71–0.80). In the NTSV population, the normal and CS birth groups, no significant difference in terms of newborn weight, neonatal Apgar scores, and the occurrence of the following: neonatal intensive care unit admission, neonatal meconium aspiration, chorioamnionitis, shoulder dystocia, perineal laceration, placental abruption, postpartum hemorrhage, maternal blood transfusion, and hysterectomy before and after the implementation of the smart intrapartum surveillance system. This study reveals that the use of the smart intrapartum surveillance system can effectively reduce the primary CS rate for low-risk NTSV pregnancies without significantly affecting perinatal outcomes.
All-angle All Polarization Broadband ‘Corona’ Scatterer
Authors: Mikhailovskaya Anna , Vovchuk Dmytro , Grotov Konstantin , Kolchanov Denis , Dobrykh Dmitry , Ladutenko Konstantin , Bobrovs Vjačeslavs , Powell Alexander , Belov Pavel , Ginzburg Pavel
Published: December 2022

Creeping waves traveling around a volumetric electromagnetic scatterer provide a significant contribution to its radar cross-section. While quite a few efforts were devoted to suppressing creeping waves as a part of radar countermeasures, here we utilize specially engineered creeping waves to our advantage to create broadband, all-angle, and polarization scatterers. Metalized spherical surfaces, patterned with corona virus-like spikes are designed to provide a broadband constructive interference between the specular reflection and creeping waves, elevating the scattering cross-section. The demonstrated miniature corona scatterers, utilizing both cascaded resonant phenomena and traveling wave interference to tailor electromagnetic interactions, outperform a resonant dipole in terms of amplitude and bandwidth quite significantly. Our experimental samples are fabricated with an additive manufacturing technique, where a 3D-printed plastic skeleton is subsequently metalized. Micron-thick layers are deposited with an electroless method and allow governing electromagnetic interactions as if the entire object was made of solid metal. Lightweight, all-angle, all-polarization, and broadband compact scatterers such as these have numerous applications, including radar deception, electromagnetic beckoning, and many others.
Effect of Music Therapy on Pain, Physical and Cognitive Function, and Mood of Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis After Total Knee Arthroplasty: Protocol for A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Kailimi , Cui Cancan , Li Ru , Jia Luning , Yu Hanhan , Wang Xueqiang
Published: December 2022

Background
Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the major treatment to decreases pain and improves function for end-stage knee osteoarthritis. Although clinical studies proved the effect of music therapy on physical/cognitive function, mood, or wellbeing, little is known about the effectiveness of music therapy in TKA. This study aims to investigate whether music therapy is a valid treatment for elderly with knee osteoarthritis who underwent TKA.
Methods
This study will apply randomized control trail (RCT) among 120 senior citizens with knee osteoarthritis after undergoing TKA. These participants would be randomly assigned to either the music therapy group or the controlled group, with a 1:1 allocation. Patients will be monitored for long-term effects over a 40-week period.
Results
The primary outcomes include numerical rating scale (NRS)-the maximum pain, NRS-the average pain, and Knees Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. Secondary outcomes included four areas: cognitive assessment, physical assessment, mood assessment, and others. We will apply an intention-to-treat analysis for the withdrawals and missing data.
Conclusions
This work will be the first RCT and large sample size trial on the use of music therapy for pain after TRK surgery for elderly patients. We will also explore the numbers of primary and secondary outcomes to conduct an in-depth analysis of the possible mechanisms of music therapy on pain, physical function, cognitive function, and mood for elderly patients after TKR.
Trial registration:
Chinese clinical trial registry, ChiCTR2200062469
The Safety and Feasibility of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined with Conservative Treatment for Cervicogenic Headaches: A double-blinded randomized control study
Authors: Jobin Kaiden , Campbell Christina , Schabrun Siobhan , Smith Ashley , Debert Chantel Theresa
Published: December 2022

Background
Cervicogenic headaches (CGH) are common following concussion and whiplash injuries and significantly reduce patient quality of life. CGH is often associated with neck, jaw and/or facial pain and reduced neck mobility. Conservative therapy and injection-based therapies are cornerstones of treatment for CGH but have shown limited efficacy. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the primary motor cortex (M1) has shown promise in treating other chronic pain and headache conditions. The primary aim of this trial is to evaluate the feasibility and safety of tDCS when combined with conservative therapy for the treatment of CGH. The study will evaluate retention and dropout rates, adherence to the protocol and adverse events. Exploratory aims will investigate the association of CGH and various health outcomes, inclusive of pain intensity, headache frequency and duration, neck mobility, quality of life, pain sensitivity, and medication usage.
Methods
Forty adults (aged 18–65), blinded to treatment arm, will be randomized into one of two groups: active tDCS with conservative therapy or sham tDCS with conservative therapy. tDCS will be applied over M1 by a trained research assistant three times per week for 6 weeks. Conservative therapy will be provided immediately post-tDCS. The primary outcomes of this trial will be the feasibility and safety of this intervention. Feasibility will be defined as greater than 30% recruitment, greater than 70% protocol adherence, and greater than 70% retention rate. Safety will be defined as no severe adverse events and less than 30% increase in adverse effects. Secondary exploratory outcomes will be assessed using the following: numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), headache impact test-6 (HIT-6), rivermead PPCS questionnaire (RPQ), cranio-cervical flexion test (CCFT), cervical extensor endurance test (CEET), cervical flexor endurance test (CFET), dynamometry neck-strength assessment (DNSA), the European quality of life five dimension (EQ-5D), patient reported outcomes measurement information system (PROMIS) pain interference scale, pain catastrophizing scale (PCS), and section A - quantitative analgesics questionnaire (QAQ-A).
Discussion
This pilot study will be the first to evaluate the use of tDCS combined with conservative therapy for the treatment of cervicogenic headaches.
Trial Registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov - NCT05582616 (registered October 4th, 2022) https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05582616
Validation of Self-Report of Uterine Fibroid diagnosis using Trans-Vaginal Ultrasound Scan
Authors: Adebamowo Clement , Morhason-Bello Imran , Adebamowo Sally
Published: December 2022

Objective: Self-report of uterine fibroids (UF) has been used for epidemiologic research in different environments. Given the dearth of studies on the epidemiology of UF in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), it is valuable to evaluate its performance as a potential tool for much needed research on this commonest neoplasm in SSA women.
Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study of self-report of UF compared with trans-vaginal ultra-sound diagnosis (TVUS) among 486 women who are members of the African Collaborative Center for Microbiome and Genomics Research(ACCME) Study Cohort in central Nigeria. We used log-binomial regression models to compute the classification, sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of self-report adjusted for significant covariates.
Results: The prevalence of UF on TVUS was 45.1% (219/486) compared to 5.4% (26/486) based on self-report of abdominal ultrasound scan and 7.2% (35/486) based on report of healthcare practitioner’s diagnosis. Self-report correctly classified 39.5% of the women in multivariable adjusted models compared to TVUS. The multivariable adjusted sensitivity of self-report of healthcare worker diagnosis was 38.8%, specificity was 74.5%, PPV was 55.6%, and NPV was 59.8%. For self-report of abdominal ultrasound diagnosis, the multivariable adjusted sensitivity was 40.6%, specificity 75.3%, PPV was 57.4%, and NPV was 60.6%.
Conclusion: Self-report significantly under-reports the prevalence of UF and it is not accurate enough for epidemiological research of UF. Future studies of UF should use population-based designs and more accurate diagnostic tools such as TVUS.
Crosstalk between miRNA and protein expression profiles in nitrate exposed brain cells
Authors: Mishra Saumya , Sarkar Sana , Pandey Anuj , Yadav Sanjeev Kumar , Negi Renu , Yadav Sanjay , Pant A B
Published: December 2022

Growing evidence reported a strong association between the ingestion of nitrate and adverse health consequences in humans, including its detrimental impact on the developing brain. The present study identified miRNAs and proteins in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells and HMC3 human microglial cells using high throughput techniques in response to nitrate level most prevalent in the environment (mainly India) (X) and an exceptionally high nitrate level (5X) that can be reached in the near future. Cells were exposed to mixtures of nitrates for 72 h at doses of X and 5X, 320 mg/L and 1600 mg/L, respectively. OpenArray and LCMS analysis revealed that maximum deregulation in miRNAs and proteins was found in cells exposed to 5X dose. Top deregulated miRNAs include miR-34b, miR-34c, miR-155, miR-143, and miR-145. The proteomic profiles of both cell types include proteins that are potential targets of deregulated miRNAs. These miRNAs and their targeted proteins are involved in multiple functions, including cellular senescence, cell cycle, apoptosis, neuronal disorders, brain development, and homeostasis. Further, measuring mitochondrial bioenergetics in cells exposed to nitrate using a Seahorse XFp flux analyzer revealed that a 5X dose causes a significant reduction in oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and other bioenergetics parameters in both cell types. In summary, our studies have demonstrated that 5X dose of nitrate significantly alters cellular physiology and functions by deregulating several miRNAs and proteins. However, X dose of nitrate that is most prevalent in the environment has not caused any adverse effects on any cell type.
The Effect of escape room clinical evaluation method on satisfaction, learning, and preparedness to practice as interns of nursing students: a quasi-experimental quantitative study
Authors: ghiamikeshtgar najmeh , ghaljaei fereshteh , ghaljeh mahnaz , Mofrad zahra Pishkar , Taherizade Bentolhoda , Googhary Narjeskhatoun Sadeghi , mahmoodi nasrin , sharifi simin
Published: December 2022

Background
Clinical evaluation utilizing the escape room game is recognized as a novel method for assessing the team-oriented performance of learners. It is a tool for evaluating teamwork skills in clinical settings, which can boost student motivation and learning. This study aimed to investigate the effect of clinical evaluation through escape rooms and feedback provision through the PEARLS approach on pre-internship nursing students’ satisfaction, learning, and preparedness to practice as interns in the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences.
Method
The current research is a quasi-experimental quantitative study conducted with a census sample of 42 sixth-semester undergraduate nursing students at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences in 2022. The escape room method was utilized to evaluate entry preparedness into the clinical field. Reliable and valid researcher-made questionnaires were administered to assess the impact of the intervention on learning, satisfaction, and preparedness. The data were analyzed in SPSS version 26 using descriptive and inferential tests. The significance level was considered to be less than 0.05.
Results
26 males and 16 females constituted the 42 participants (mean age: 23.46 years). The clinical evaluation method of the escape room game was deemed satisfactory or highly satisfactory by 80% of students. From their perspective, escape rooms were definitely or highly effective in shaping their preparedness to enter the clinical field. Comparing the students’ mean learning scores (self-assessment of clinical skills) before and after the test revealed that their post-test scores were significantly higher than their pre-test scores (p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Considering the satisfaction of nursing students with the clinical evaluation using the escape room game and its impact on student learning, it is recommended that this method be implemented in all medical education departments.
Flexible upscaling of laboratory PCR testing capacity at the Robert Koch Institute during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
Authors: Krause Eva , Michel Janine , Puyskens Andreas , Hofmann Natalie , Rinner Thomas , Biere Barbara , Dorner Brigitte G. , Skiba Martin , Schaade Lars , Nitsche Andreas
Published: December 2022

Background
Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, laboratories worldwide have been facing an unprecedented increase in demand for PCR testing because of the high importance of diagnostics for prevention and control of virus spread. Moreover, testing demand has been varying considerably over time, depending on the epidemiological situation, rendering efficient resource allocation difficult. Here, we present a scalable workflow which we implemented in our laboratory to increase PCR testing capacity while maintaining high flexibility regarding the number of samples to be processed.
Methods
We compared the performance of five automated extraction instruments, using dilutions of SARS-CoV-2 cell culture supernatant as well as clinical samples. To increase PCR throughput, we combined the two duplex PCR reactions of our previously published SARS-CoV-2 PCR assay into one quadruplex reaction and compared their limit of detection as well as their performance on the detection of low viral loads in clinical samples. Furthermore, we developed a sample pooling protocol with either two or four samples per pool, combined with a specifically adapted SARS-CoV-2 quadruplex PCR assay, and compared the diagnostic sensitivity of pooled testing and individual testing.
Results
All tested automated extraction instruments yielded comparable results regarding the subsequent sensitivity of SARS-CoV-2 detection by PCR. While the limit of detection of the quadruplex SARS-CoV-2 PCR assay (E-Gene assay: 28.7 genome equivalents (ge)/reaction, orf1ab assay: 32.0 ge/reaction) was slightly higher than that of our previously published duplex PCR assays (E-Gene assay: 9.8 ge/reaction, orf1ab assay: 6.6 ge/reaction), the rate of correctly identified positive patient samples was comparable for both assays. Sample pooling with optimized downstream quadruplex PCR showed no loss in diagnostic sensitivity compared to individual testing.
Conclusion
Specific adaptation of PCR assays can help overcome the potential loss of sensitivity due to higher levels of PCR multiplexing or sample dilution in pooled testing. Combining these adapted PCR assays with different sample processing strategies provides a simple and highly adjustable workflow for resource-efficient SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics. The presented principles can easily be adopted in a variety of laboratory settings as well as be adapted to pathogens other than SARS-CoV-2, making it feasible for any laboratory that conducts PCR diagnostics.
Factors associated with public awareness of the relationship between alcohol use and breast cancer risk
Authors: Doyle Anne , O’Dwyer Claire , Mongan Deirdre , Millar Seán R. , Galvin Brian
Published: December 2022

Background
Public awareness of the carcinogenic effects of alcohol is low, particularly the association between alcohol use the risk of developing breast cancer. Breast cancer is the third most common cancer in Ireland and alcohol use remains high. This study examined factors related to awareness of the association between alcohol use and breast cancer risk.
Methods
Using data from Wave 2 of the national Healthy Ireland Survey, a representative sample of 7,498 Irish adults aged 15 + years, descriptive and logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate relationships between demographic characteristics, type of drinker and awareness of breast cancer risk.
Results
A low level of awareness of the risk of alcohol use (drinking more than the recommended low–risk limit) associated with breast cancer was found, with just 21% of respondents correctly identifying the relationship. Multivariable regression analyses found that factors most strongly associated with awareness were sex (female), middle age (45—54 years) and higher educational levels.
Conclusion
As breast cancer is a prevalent disease among women in Ireland, it is essential that the public, in particular women who drink, are made aware of this association. Public health messages that highlight the health risks associated with alcohol use, and which target individuals with lower educational levels, are warranted.
The role of ambidextrous leadership and employee ambidexterity in enhancing service quality of care and creativity – A study of health professionals
Authors: Slåtten Terje , Mutonyi Barbara Rebecca , Nordli Anne Jørgensen , Lien Gudbrand
Published: December 2022

Background
It is important to understand how and in what ways a leadership style is capable to promote health professionals job performance. In this study we explore a relatively new leadership style, termed ambidextrous leadership. Ambidextrous leadership encompasses a leader capability to stimulate both exploitative and explorative activities in employees. Specifically, ambidextrous leadership is linked to two types of job-directed performance of health professionals’, respectively service quality of care and creativity. The study also examine what role employee ambidexterity seems to have in this relationship.
Methods
To test the conceptual model of this study, a cross-sectional survey was developed and data was gathered through convenience sampling of a total of N = 258 health professionals in home care services across nine various municipalities based in Norway. The study tested and analyzed the proposed hypotheses of this study through structural equation modeling partial least square, with SmartPLS 3 software. In addition to testing the direct relationships, the study also examined the indirect relationship through mediation testing by bootstrap.
Results
Ambidextrous leadership were found to have a direct impact on both employee’s service quality (\(\beta\) = 0.236) of care and employee ambidexterity (\(\beta\) = 0.395). The direct relationship between ambidextrous leadership and employee creativity were insignificant. However, the relationship ambidextrous leadership and service quality of care and creativity were both mediated of employee ambidexterity. Finally, the results reveal that employee creativity mediated the relationship between employee ambidexterity and service quality of care.
Conclusions
Although there are some differences, both ambidextrous leadership and employee ambidexterity are capable to promote job-directed performance of health professionals. Thus, a practical implication on the basis of the findings is that healthcare organizations should recruit, train and develop their leaders to become ambidextrous leaders. Doing so will have a direct impact on level of service quality as well as employee ambidexterity. In addition, acquiring ambidextrous leadership practices will also positively transform employee ambidexterity in a positive direction and indirectly stimulate employee’s creativity as well as strengthening health professionals service quality of care offering. Consequently, health organizations should be conscious of the multiple direct- and indirect effects of practicing ambidextrous leadership.
An improved VSG control strategy based on transient electromagnetic power compensation
Authors: Gao Changwei , Wang Wei , Huang Chongyang , Zheng Weiqiang
Published: December 2022

Virtual synchronous generator (VSG) not only increases the inertia of grid-connected system, but also brings the problem of active power oscillation under grid disturbance. Therefore, VSG control strategy and system model order reduction method with transient electromagnetic power compensation are proposed. The closed-loop active power small signal model of the system is established, and the influence of transient electromagnetic power compensation on the power stability of VSG is analyzed based on root locus method. By removing the items which have little influence on the stability of the system in the small signal model, the order is reduced to obtain the equivalent second-order model of the system. According to the second-order model, the quantitative design criteria of the system parameters are given. The proposed transient electromagnetic power compensation strategy not only increases the transient equivalent damping of the system, but also does not affect the primary frequency modulation characteristics and will not cause large overshoot of the output active power. The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical analysis, which testify the effectiveness and correctness of the system control strategy and the model reduction method.
Diagnosis of Neonatal Neurofibromatosis Type 1: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Zheng Qiuying , Wang Ruijie , Xie Fusui , Zhao Xiaoli , Pei Nihui , Tao Hongwei , Ding Tingting , Liu Lei
Published: December 2022

Background: Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a rare genetic disorder characterized with the development of multiple benign tumors on the nerves and skin.
Case presentation: This report described a case of a neonate with a large mass observed on the left side of the maxillofacial region and cervical region at birth. Meantime, multiple cafe-au-lait macules (CALMs) were also seen on the trunk and both lower extremities.
Conclusions: In this case, ultrasonography was used as a diagnostic method to discuss the ultrasonographic and clinical features of the tumor.
Spatial representations of objects used away and toward the body: the effect of near and far space
Authors: Ruggiero Gennaro , Ruotolo Francesco , Nunziata Scila , Abagnale Simona , Iachini Tina , Bartolo Angela
Published: December 2022

An action with an object can be accomplished only if we encode the position of the object with respect to our body (i.e. egocentrically) and/or to another element in the environment (i.e. allocentrically). However, some actions with the objects are directed towards our body, such as brushing our teeth, and others away from the body, such as writing. Objects can be near the body, that is within arm reaching, or far from the body, that is outside arm reaching. The aim of this study was to verify if the direction of use of the objects influences the way we represent their position in both near and far space. Objects typically used towards (TB) or away from the body (AB) were presented in near or far space and participants had to judge whether an object was closer to them (i.e. egocentric judgment) or closer to another object (i.e. allocentric judgment). Results showed that egocentric judgments on TB objects were more accurate in near than in far space. Moreover, allocentric judgments on AB objects were less accurate than egocentric judgments in near but not in far space. These results are discussed with respect to the different role that visuomotor and visuospatial mechanisms play in near and in far space, respectively.
FLOURY ENDOSPERM 6 mutations enhance the sugary phenotype caused by the loss of ISOAMYLASE1 in barley
Authors: Matsushima Ryo , Hisano Hiroshi , Galis Ivan , Miura Satoko , Crofts Naoko , Takenaka Yuto , Oitome Naoko F , Ishimizu Takeshi , Fujita Naoko , Sato Kazushiro
Published: December 2022

Starch is a biologically and commercially important glucose polymer synthesized by plants as semicrystalline starch granules (SGs). Because SG morphology affects starch properties, mutants with altered SG morphology may be useful in breeding crops with desirable starch properties, including potentially novel properties. In this study, we employed a simple screen for mutants with altered SG morphology in barley (Hordeum vulgare). We isolated mutants that formed compound SGs together with the normal simple SGs in the endosperm and found that they were allelic mutants of the starch biosynthesis genes ISOAMYLASE1 (HvISA1) and FLOURY ENDOSPERM 6 (HvFLO6), encoding starch debranching enzyme and CARBOHYDRATE-BINDING MODULE 48-containing protein, respectively. We generated the hvflo6 hvisa1 double mutant and showed that it had significantly reduced starch biosynthesis and developed shrunken grains. In contrast to starch, soluble α-glucan, phytoglycogen, and sugars accumulated to higher levels in the double mutant than in the single mutants. In addition, the double mutants showed defects in SG morphology in the endosperm and in the pollen. This novel genetic interaction suggests that hvflo6 acts as an enhancer of the sugary phenotype caused by hvisa1 mutation.
Temporal associations of the COVID-19 related border restrictions and respiratory viral infections in New Zealand
Authors: Huang Q. Sue , Turner Nikki , Wood Timothy , Geoghegan Jemma , Anglemyer Andrew , McIntyre Peter , de Ligt Joep , Aminisani Nayyereh , Jelley Lauren , Jefferies Sarah , Dowell Tony , Trenholme Adrian , Brynes Cass , Balm Michelle , McIntosh Christine , Grant Cameron , Nesdale Annette , Dobinson Hazel , Campbell-Stokes Priscilla , Daniells Karen , Seeds Ruth , Jennings Tineke , Rensburg Megan , Cueto Jort , Caballero Ernest , John Joshma , Penghulan Emmanuel , Tan Chor , Ren Xiaoyun , Berquist Klarysse , O'Neill Meaghan , Marull Maritza , Yu Chang , McNeill Andrea , Kiedrzynski Tomasz , Roberts Sally , McArthur Colin , Stanley Alicia , Taylor Susan , Wong Conroy , Lawrence Shirley , Baker Michael , Kvalsvig Amanda , Werff Koen , McAuliffe Gary , Antoszewska Hannah , Dilcher Meik , Fahey Jennifer , Werno Anja , Elvy Juliet , Grant Jennifer , Addidle Michael , Zacchi Nicolas , Mansell Chris , Widdowson Marc-Alain , Thomas Paul , Consortium NPIsImpactOnFlu , Webby Richard
Published: December 2022

New Zealand (NZ)’s elimination of community transmission of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in May 2020, due to stringent COVID-19 countermeasures, provided a rare opportunity to assess the impact of border restrictions and relaxations on common respiratory viral infections over the subsequent two-years. Using multiple surveillance systems, we observed that border closure to most non-residents, and mandatory government-managed isolation and quarantine on arrival for those allowed to enter, appeared to be effective in keeping influenza and RSV infections out of the NZ community. Partial border relaxations through quarantine free travel with Australia and other countries were associated, within weeks, with importation of RSV and influenza into NZ in 2021 and 2022. Border restrictions did not have effect on community transmission of other respiratory viruses such as rhinovirus and parainfluenza virus type 1. These data can inform future pandemic influenza preparedness as well as provide insights into effective strategies to plan and model the impact of seasonal influenza, RSV, and other respiratory viral infections.
Prevalence and clinical outcome of Omicron breakthrough infection in patients with hematologic disease: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Narita Kentaro , Ikeda Daisuke , Seki Mizuki , Fukumoto Ami , Tabata Rikako , Uesugi Yuka , Miura Daisuke , Takeuchi Masami , Doi Masahiro , Umezawa Yuka , Otsuka Yoshihito , Matsue Kosei
Published: December 2022

To explore the prevalence and outcomes of the severe acute respiratory syndrome virus-2 Omicron infection in hematologic disease (HD), we performed a prospective observational study on 922 patients with HD and 88 healthcare workers (HCW). We identified 75 and 12 Omicron breakthrough infections in HD and HCW, respectively. In multivariate analysis, older age and use of anti-CD20 antibody within one year were significant independent predictors of breakthrough infection in HD who received two doses of vaccination, but these were not significant for three doses. Of the 75 HD patients infected with Omicron, 66 had mild symptoms and recovered completely, while nine patients required oxygen therapy, three of whom eventually died. In nine patients with longitudinal polymerase chain reaction data available, the five patients who were treated with anti-CD20 antibodies plus bendamustine had prolonged viral shedding. The absolute T-cell subset counts were significantly lower in patients with prolonged viral shedding than in those without. Overall, the symptoms of Omicron infection in HD patients other than those with bendamustine were generally mild and prompt viral clearance was achieved. Even in immunocompromised HD patients, other than those treated with bendamustine, Omicron infection may not require the rigorous infection control as with previous variants.
Antimicrobial resistance and evolution of genomic epidemiology of multidrug- resistant Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis ST11 in China
Authors: Liu Jie , Hou houyue , Zhao Linna , Chen Gang , Chen Jialiang , Zhao Qiang , Ye Liyan , Cui Shenghui , Wang Chengbin
Published: December 2022

In recent years, with the change of multidrug resistant strains, the genetic characteristics of foodborne Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis and clinical isolates have changed, and ST11 is the most common genotype associated with the S. Enteritidis isolates from humans and food animals across the world. In this study, the phenotypes and genetic characteristics of antibiotic resistance in foodborne and clinical S. Enteritidis isolates were analyzed. The results showed that the antibiotic resistance of foodborne S. Enteritidis isolates from 2017 was more severe than that of clinical isolates from 2013 to 2017, with a wider antibiotic resistance spectrum and higher antibiotic resistance rate. The genetic characteristics of S. Enteritidis from different sources were also different. Compared with clinical isolates, food-borne S. Enteritidis carried more antibiotic resistance genes, and the context characteristics of antibiotic resistance genes were different. For example, blaCTX−M and dfrA17 were only present on the plasmid of clinical S. Enteritidis but existed in the plasmid and chromosome of foodborne S. Enteritidis, and the carrying rate of floR was higher than that of clinical isolates. Analysis of the reasons suggests that the isolation of foodborne S. Enteritidis is late, the gene evolution is faster, and some resistance genes can be integrated and stably exist on the chromosome, which speeds up the evolution of resistance genes and provides more mechanisms for resistance to antibiotics. Compared the virulence genes of S. Enteritidis from different sources, we found that except for the distribution of virulence plasmids, there was no difference in the distribution of other virulence genes, so we believe that foodborne S. Enteritidis has the potential to cause clinical infection, and once the evolution of these drug resistance genes starts to expand, it will cause a problem for clinical treatment. Therefore, we should always monitor the changes in drug resistance patterns of S. Enteritidis from different sources.
Effects of cellulase and xylanase on fermentative profile, bacterial diversity, and in vitro degradation of mixed silage of agro-residue and alfalfa
Authors: Mu Lin , Wang Qinglan , Wang Yating , Zhang Zhifei
Published: December 2022

The objective was to determine effects of cellulase, xylanase, and commercial fibrolytic enzymes on fermentation quality, aerobic stability, bacterial community, and in vitro degradation of mixed silages. Mixtures of alfalfa, wheat bran, and rice straw (80:15:5 on a fresh matter [FM] basis) were ensiled for 1, 3, 5, 7, 15, 30, and 45 d after treatment with: distilled water (control, C); cellulase (E); xylanase (X); or commercial fibrolytic enzymes (EX), with all enzyme preparations applied at 100U/g FM. The 45-d silages were subjected to an in vitro degradation test. Each of the 3 enzyme-treated groups enriched relative abundance (RA)of Lactobacillus, Weissella, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, increased water soluble carbohydrate (WSC) concentrations, and extended aerobic stability over 384 h, but concurrently inhibited growth of undesirable microbes (i.e., Acinetobacter sp, Erwinia sp, Lelliottia amnigena, and Sphingomonas sp), reducing pH and concentrations of ammonia nitrogen (AN), butyric acid (BA) and propionic acid (PA). Compared to C, adding X or EX increased the RA of L. paralimentarius and L. parabrevis, enhanced accumulation of acetic acid (AA) and crude protein (CP), and reduced hemicellulose content. Furthermore, E group silage had the highest abundance of W. cibaria. In addition, EX enriched RA of Bacillus velezensis, reduced AN concentration, increased DM degradability, total VFA production, and gas production during in vitro incubation. In conclusion, addition of X or EX enhanced ensiling by enhancing concentrations of AA; however, EX was the most promising enzyme, based on reducing AN concentration and increasing DM content and DM degradability.
A strong He II λ1640 emitter with extremely blue UV spectral slope at z=8.16: presence of Pop III stars?
Authors: Wang Xin , Cheng Cheng , Ge Junqiang , Meng Xiao-Lei , Daddi Emanuele , Yan Haojing , Jones Tucker , Malkan Matthew , Haro Pablo Arrabal , Brammer Gabriel , Oguri Masamune
Published: December 2022

Cosmic hydrogen reionization and cosmic production of first metals are major phase transitions of the Universe occurring during the first billion years after the Big Bang, but still poorly explored observationally. Using the JWST NIRSpec prism spectroscopy, we report the discovery of a sub-L* galaxy at zspec = 8.1623-0.0008+0.0007, dubbed RXJ2129-z8HeII, via the detection of a series of strong rest-frame UV/optical nebular emission lines and the clear Lyman break. A strong He II λ1640 emission is present, the highest redshift He II line currently known. Its high rest-frame equivalent width (EW=19.38 ± 3.24 Å) and extreme flux ratios with respect to UV metal lines and Balmer lines raise the possibility that part of RXJ2129-z8HeII's stellar populations could be Pop III-like5,6. RXJ2129-z8HeII also shows a pronounced UV continuum with an extremely steep (i.e. blue) spectral slope of β =-2.50±0.08, the steepest amongst all spectroscopically confirmed galaxies at z ≳ 7, in support of its very hard ionizing spectrum that could lead to a significant leakage of its ionizing flux7. Therefore, RXJ2129-z8HeII is representative of the key galaxy population driving the cosmic reionization. To date, this is also the most compelling case where trace Pop III stars might coexist with more metal-enriched stars.
Ischemic preconditioning attenuates ERS-dependent apoptosis of hepatocyte through regulating autophagy in hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury
Authors: Kong Erliang , Li Yongchang , Geng Xuqiang , Wang Jianxin , He Yan , Feng Xudong
Published: December 2022

Hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury (HIRI) usually occurs in subtotal hepatectomy and severely damages liver function during perioperative period. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) dependent apoptosis was suggested to crucially participate in the progression of HIRI. The present study focused on the regulatory effect of autophagy activation induced by ischemic preconditioning (IPC) on ERS-dependent apoptosis of hepatocyte in HIRI. HIRI mice model and oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) AML-12 hepatocyte cell lines were both constructed to evaluate the protective effect of IPC in vivo and in vitro, separately. The protein levels of p-eIF2α, CHOP, cleaved caspase-12 were used to evaluate the ERS-dependent apoptosis, while LC3-II and p62 were regarded as the autophagy activation markers. The beneficial molecular chaperones GRP78, HSP60, HSP70 were also tested to evaluate autophagy. The results showed that HIRI significantly increased the ERS-dependent apoptosis markers and the number of apoptotic cells, and damaged liver function. The ERS inhibitor Salubrinal (Sal) intraperitoneally greatly alleviated liver injury in HIRI mice and OGD/R hepatocytes. Further, both remote IPC (RIPC) and direct IPC (DIPC) significantly alleviated liver injury and inflammatory cell infiltration. IPC also up-regulated LC3-II and down-regulated p62 expression, and increased the mRNA levels of GRP78, HSP60, HSP70 in HIRI mice and OGD/R hepatocytes, indicating the autophagy activation by IPC. Autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) significantly attenuated the protective effects of IPC on ERS-dependent apoptosis and liver function, while autophagy activator rapamycin (RAP) mimicked the protective effects of IPC on ERS-dependent apoptosis in vitro, suggesting the regulatory roles of autophagy on ERS-dependent apoptosis. These results all demonstrated that IPC could induce moderate autophagy and up-regulate some molecular chaperones to strengthen the endogenous defense mechanisms, which was beneficial to alleviate ERS-dependent apoptosis and protect hepatocytes from HIRI.
Catalpol attenuates renal injury by regulating oxidative stress and inflammation response
Authors: Liu Zhihui , Wang Yu , Zhou Chong , Xu Qingyang , Gao Hongxin , Huo Mohan , Jiang Xiaowen , Yu Wenhui
Published: December 2022

Background: Aristolochic acid I (AA-I) can damage the structure and function of kidney, but there are few prevention strategies at present. In this study, we investigated the protective effects and mechanism of Rehmannia glutinosa extract-catalpol (CAT) on renal injury caused by AA-I.
Methods: In vitro, NRK-52E cells were administered with AA-I (40 μM) or/and CAT (10 μM, 5 μM) for 24 h. In vivo, C57BL/6NJ male mice were administered with AA-I (10 mg/kg) or/and CAT (100 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg) for 28 d. Clinical symptoms, histopathology, Elisa, quantitative RT-PCR, Westernblot, immunocytochemistry, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry were used to evaluate the protective effect of CAT on renal injury.
Results: In the model group, the body weight and renal function of mice decreased significantly, and the pathological damage of renal tissue was obvious. Compared with the model group, CAT can significantly improve the kidney structure and function. Activate NF-E2-related-factor-2 (Nrf2) signal pathway, increase antioxidant enzyme activity and decrease ROS and MDA levels. CAT can also inhibit the nuclear-factor-kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and reduce the expression of Cyt-c, TNF-α and pro-IL-1β. In addition, CAT can reduce Ca2+ concentration, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and mitochondrial damage, thus reducing mitochondrial pathway apoptosis and cell apoptosis rate. And both Nrf2 and NF-κB are the main targets of CAT in alleviating AA-I-induced renal injury.
Conclusion: CAT can attenuate the damage of renal structure and function through Nrf2/NF-κB pathways. CAT can inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress, further reducing the mitochondrial pathway apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway apoptosis.
Using mesh in capsule anatomical reconstruction to enhance the stability of high- dislocation-risk hip arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xin Peng , Ni Ming , Ji Quanbo , Yang Xiaoxi , Geng Lei , Wang Yan , Zhang Guoqiang
Published: December 2022

Background: Dislocation is a common complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to compare the outcomes of mesh reconstruction versus conventional capsular repair in maintaining capsular integrity and preventing dislocation after THA.
Methods: This was a prospective, randomized controlled study of consecutive patients. 124 high-dislocation-risk THAs were identified and randomized into two groups, one using mesh reconstruction and the other using conventional capsular repair method. Perioperative data and radiological data were collected. Patients were followed up regularly. The main indexes were the capsular integrity assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hip dislocation rate. The secondary indexes included Harris hip score (HHS), complications, satisfaction.
Results: 106 patients completed the follow-up and the average follow-up time was 19±3.1 and 18±3.3 months. The operation time of mesh group was longer than conventional group (P < 0.001). There were minor differences in acetabularanteversion and abduction angle, and the other data had no differences. MRI results showed the successful rate of capsular repair was higher in mesh group (50 hip, 98%) than in conventional group (37 hips, 67%) (P < 0.001) and the others failed the repair. Three dislocations occurred in conventional group while none in the mesh group. The preoperative HHS (30 points) and postoperative HHS (82 points) of mesh group were similar to those (35 points, 83points) of the conventional group (P = 0.164, P = 0.328). The satisfaction showed no difference (P=0.532).
Conclusions: Compared to conventional repair, mesh reconstruction can effectively maintain the capsular integrity and decrease dislocation risk after THA without increasing the complications.
Level of Evidence: Therapeutic study, Level IA
Developing a Parenting Model for the Decent Use of Digital Media among the Teenagers in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Exploration
Authors: BakiBillah Abul Hasan , Khan Ayub , Muhammad Faisal , Chowdhury ABM Alauddin , Shahinuzzaman Md. , Hossain Syed Billal , Akram Muhammad , Almasri Nihad A. , Wani Mohammad Amin , Chowdhury Moniruddin , Ghosh Sanchita , Kabir Russell
Published: December 2022

Background: In Bangladesh, parents are crucial in ensuring that teens use digital gadgets responsibly. The purpose of this study was to create a parenting paradigm within the context of the government's purges.
Method: Nineteen key informants took part in this study as part of the qualitative inquiry.
Results: Participants come from a variety of backgrounds and play a variety of roles that all support the same goal. The parenting model was created using the information from the interviews. By placing secondary and upper secondary educational institutions at the core of government action, parents will be educated. This approach was first proposed to be used in the "Generation Breakthrough" program of the Ministry of Education. Parents should be invited to the institutions to learn about the actions that need to be performed and followed under the two main categories, preventative and curative. Technology, the spoken word, psychology, and relationships built on evidence and trust are all examples of preventive approaches. Corrective measures include counseling, assistance with cyber security, legal services, and law enforcement.
Conclusion: In order to ensure that teens are using digital gadgets responsibly, this study suggests educating and empowering parents through a realistic strategy.