bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental porcine astrovirus type 3-associated polioencephalomyelitis in swine
Authors: Ferreyra Franco Matias , Arruda Paulo E. H. , Bradner Laura K. , Harmon Karen M. , Zhang Min , Giménez-Lirola Luis , Arruda Bailey L.
Published: October 2021

Porcine astrovirus type 3 (PoAstV3) is an emerging virus in the family Astroviridae that has been recently associated with polioencephalomyelitis/encephalitis. Herein, we describe the experimental oral and intravenous inoculation of an infectious central nervous system (CNS) tissue homogenate containing PoAstV3 to cesarean-derived, colostrum-deprived pigs, and the subsequent development of clinical signs, histologic lesions, specific humoral immune response, and detection of viral particles by electron microscopy (EM) and viral RNA by RT-qPCR (reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction) and in situ hybridization (ISH). IgG against a portion of the PoAstV3 ORF2 capsid was first detected at 7 days post-inoculation (DPI) in 2 of 4 inoculated animals and in all inoculated animals by 14 DPI. At 21 and 28 DPI, 2 of 4 inoculated animals developed ataxia, tetraparesis, and/or lateral recumbency. All inoculated animals had histologic lesions in the CNS including perivascular lymphoplasmacytic cuffs, multifocal areas of gliosis with neuronal necrosis, satellitosis, and radiculoneuritis, and PoAstV3 RNA as detected by RT-qPCR within multiple anatomic regions of the CNS. Consistent viral structures were within the soma of a spinal cord neuron in the single pig examined by EM. Of note, PoAstV3 was not only detected by ISH in neurons of the cerebrum and spinal cord but also neurons of the dorsal root ganglion and nerve roots consistent with viral dissemination via axonal transport. This is the first study reproducing CNS disease with a porcine astrovirus strain consistent with natural infection, suggesting that pigs may serve as an animal model to study the pathogenesis of neurotropic astroviruses.
Pediatric Neurologists’ Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health Care for Adolescent and Young Adult Women With Epilepsy and Intellectual Disability
Authors: Kirkpatrick Laura , Collins Amy , Harrison Elizabeth , Miller Elizabeth , Patterson Christina , Sogawa Yoshimi , Van Cott Anne C. , Kazmerski Traci M.
Published: October 2021

Objective:

To explore perspectives of pediatric neurologists regarding sexual and reproductive health care for adolescent women with epilepsy (WWE) and intellectual disability.

Methods:

We interviewed pediatric neurologists regarding sexual and reproductive health for WWE with intellectual disability. We audio-recorded and transcribed interviews and conducted qualitative analysis.

Results:

16 pediatric neurologists participated. Themes included the following: (1) Pediatric neurologists have differing perspectives about how intellectual disability affects WWE’s sexual and reproductive health needs, (2) pediatric neurologists provide sexual and reproductive health counseling variable in content and frequency to this population, (3) pediatric neurologists tend to recommend longer-term methods of contraception for this population, and (4) pediatric neurologists are asked to be involved in decision-making around sterilization, yet express ethico-legal reservations.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest pediatric neurologists provide variable, often suboptimal, sexual and reproductive health care for WWE and intellectual disability. Themes reveal ethical concerns among neurologists about sexual and reproductive health practices including sterilization. More tailored clinical guidelines and provider training on sexual and reproductive health for this population may be beneficial.
The Church Fathers and the Ethics of Propaganda: A Christian Approach to Public Rhetoric
Authors: Blosser Andrew J.
Published: October 2021

Although religious ethicists commonly assess the content of public communication to determine its merits, this article argues that the style and techniques of communication deserve similar analysis. Propaganda often employs rhetorical techniques that impress the recipient through persuasive sleight-of-hand or emotional appeal. Drawing on the church fathers’ suspicion of classical rhetoric, as well as Augustine's guarded defense of a specific type of rhetoric, the author formulates two principles of ethical propaganda that may assist public communicators in persuading ethically. These two principles are the procedural movement of beauty from truth, and the use of caritas as a primary motivator in persuasion.
Violence, War, and Capital Punishment in For the Life of the World: Toward a Social Ethos of the Orthodox Church
Authors: LeMasters Philip
Published: October 2021

In response to the challenges presented by violence, war, and capital punishment, For the Life of the World: Toward a Social Ethos of the Orthodox Church argues that foundational liturgical, canonical, and spiritual resources invite the Church to manifest a foretaste of the fullness of God’s peace amidst the brokenness of a world that remains tragically inclined toward taking the lives of those who bear the divine image and likeness. It also summons the Church to engage people and power structures toward the end of enacting practical reforms that ameliorate the underlying causes of violence, a task especially urgent in light of the powerful weapons and technologies employed by governments today. While reflecting distinctive Orthodox sensibilities on the topics it addresses, the document also presents points of commonality with other Christian traditions of theological and moral reflection, especially concerning the obligation to take realistic initiatives in peacemaking.
Liberal Democracy, Human Rights, and the Eucharistic Community: Contrasting Voices in American Orthodox Ethics
Authors: LeMasters Philip
Published: October 2021

The relationship between Eastern Orthodoxy and the political ethos of the West is of crucial importance for contextualizing the Church’s social engagement in the present day. Aristotle Papanikolaou and Vigen Guroian highlight points of tension in their respective accounts of the relationship between the Orthodoxy and western democratic social orders. Analysis of their argument provides a context for examining their contrasting understandings of human rights as a dimension of the public engagement of Orthodox Christians with the political realm. While neither completely rejects appeals to human rights, neither claims that such rhetoric manifests the full truth about the dignity of the human person according to the theological anthropology of Orthodox Christianity. Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, Archbishop Anastasios Yannoulatos of Albania, the statements of the Council of Crete (2016), and several other contemporary Orthodox voices place appeals to human rights in a theologically nuanced context that affirms their legitimacy while refraining from identifying them with the fullness of the moral and spiritual vision of Orthodox Christianity. Analysis of the debate between Papanikolaou and Guroian gives rise to a tentative affirmation of the critical use of the language of human rights in Eastern Orthodox social ethics.
Evaluation of mechanical performance and water absorption properties of modified sugarcane bagasse high-density polyethylene plastic bag green composites
Authors: Chen Ruey Shan , Chai Yao Hsing , Olugu Ezutah Udoncy , Salleh Mohd Nazry , Ahmad Sahrim
Published: October 2021

Enormous amounts of plastic wastes are generated worldwide and the approaches related to plastic recycling or reusing have become the research focus in the field of composite materials. In this study, green composites were prepared via melt-blending method using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sourced from plastic bags as a matrix and sugarcane bagasse (SCB) fiber as reinforcing filler. The effects of fiber loading (5, 10 and 15 wt%) and fiber modification on the mechanical and dimensional stability (weight gain by water absorption) properties of the green composites were investigated. Results showed that the inclusion of SCB fiber into recycled HDPE matrix increased the composite stiffness but decreased the mechanical strength and resistance to water absorption. With the fiber modification through alkali treatment, the mechanical strength was remarkably improved, and the modulus and water absorption of the composites were found to be reduced. From the finding, it can be concluded that the prepared green composites free of coupling agent could add value to the plastic and agricultural wastes, and serve a potential candidate to replace some conventional petroleum-based composites.
Tayādhūq (Theodocus/Théodoros) and his role in the formation of Islamic medicine
Authors: Şenel Samet , Yılmaz Halil İbrahim
Published: October 2021

Tayādhūq, also known as Theodocus/Théodoros (d. early 8th century AD), was educated in the Gondēs̲h̲āpūr School and served the Sassanid kings. During this period, he contacted the Umayyad court and became the physician of Hajjāj ibn Yūsuf (d. 715 AD), the general governor of the Eastern regions of the caliphate. In addition to his knowledge on the Sassanid scientific tradition, Tayādhūq had a significant role in transferring this tradition to the Islamic world. His ideas were later followed by polymath physicians such as Rhazes (Abū Bakr al-Rāzī, d. 925 AD), Avicenna (Ibn Sīnā, d. 1037 AD), and others who lived after him. His medical works were of great importance to the development of early Islamic medicine. Therefore, this study will attempt to illuminate this forgotten scholar's medical knowledge, the works he produced, and finally illustrate his influences on later Muslim physicians.
Symptom Prevalence and Place of Death Preference in Advanced Cancer Patients: Factors Associated With the Achievement of Home Death
Authors: Ho Julia Fee Voon , Marzuki Nur Syafiqah , Meseng Nur Syuhadah Monica , Kaneisan Viknaswary , Lum Yin Khek , Pui Eunice Wan Wen , Yaakup Hayati
Published: October 2021

Objectives:

Achievement of patients’ preferred place of death is recognized as a component of a good death. This study aimed to investigate the symptom burden in advanced cancer patients, achievement of their place of death preferences and factors associated with home death.

Methods:

In this retrospective review of 287 patient deaths, we examined patients’ symptom prevalence, preferred and actual place of death and achievement of their place of death preferences using descriptive statistics. Associations between patient factors, home death preference and actual home death were further analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.

Results:

The most prevalent symptoms were weakness, pain and poor appetite, with a mean of 5.77(SD: 2.37) symptoms per patient. The median interval from palliative care referral to death was 21 (IQR: 74) days. Of the 253 patients with documented place of death preference, 132 (52.1%) preferred home death, 111(43.9%) preferred hospital death, 1 (0.4%) preferred to die at a temple and 9(3.6%) expressed no preference. Overall, 221 of 241(91.7%) patients with known actual place of death achieved their preference. Older patients were more likely to prefer home death (OR 1.021; 95% CI 1.004-1.039, p = 0.018) and die at home (OR 1.023; 95% CI 1.005-1.041, p = 0.014). Gender, marital status, cancer diagnosis and symptoms were not associated with preference for or actual home death.

Conclusion:

Despite a high symptom burden, most patients preferred and achieved a home death. Late palliative care referral and difficult symptom management contributed to failure to fulfill home death preference. Preference for home death should be considered when managing terminally ill geriatric patients.
Born a Culturally Responsive Educator: A Conversation With Dr. Cathy Kea
Authors: Jones Vita L. , Higgins Kyle , Boone Randall
Published: October 2021

Dr. Cathy Kea is a professor of special education in the Department of Educator Preparation at North Carolina A&T State University. Dr. Kea’s research interests focus on the intersection among general education, special education, and multicultural education, which she has labeled “a trilogy to be transformed.” Her current research focuses on preparing preservice teachers to design and deliver culturally responsive instruction in urban classrooms as well as providing methods, materials, and philosophy to educator preparation programs (e.g., via syllabi, lesson plans, lectures).
Role of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonists in Hypoglycemia
Authors: Ja’arah Daria , Al Zoubi Mazhar Salim , Abdelhady Gamal , Rabi Firas , Tambuwala Murtaza M
Published: October 2021

A relatively recent addition to the arsenal of antidiabetic drugs used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been the “incretin mimetics,” a group of drugs that work on the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor and enhance insulin secretion from the pancreatic β-cells in a glucose-dependent manner, more potently in hyperglycemic conditions, while suppressing glucagon secretion at the same time. Therefore, it was assumed that this class of drugs would have a lower risk of hypoglycemia than insulin secretagogues like sulphonylureas. However, GLP-1 receptor agonists have been proposed to cause hypoglycemia in healthy normoglycemic subjects implying that their action is not as glucose-dependent as once thought. Other studies concluded that they might not induce hypoglycemia and the risk is dependent on other individual factors. However, the FDA announced that the 12 GLP-1 receptor agonists currently available on the market had potential safety signs and evaluated the need for regulatory action. This review provides an overview of the studies that investigated the possible hypoglycemic effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists. In addition, the current review describes other adverse effects of GLP-1 receptor agonist treatment.
Degree of learning and linear forgetting
Authors: Fisher Jerry S , Radvansky Gabriel A
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to assess whether the degree of learning influences the observation of memory retention and forgetting that follows a linear pattern. According to our retention accuracy from fragmented traces (RAFT) model, one factor that should increase the likelihood of this is when there is greater learning of the material. Higher levels of learning can increase the number of trace components, making it more likely that reconstruction or partial retrieval can lead to an accurate response on a memory test. Here, we report three new experiments, as well as re-analyses of existing data from the literature, to show that increasing the level of learning in some ways can lead to increases in the likelihood of observing linear forgetting. For Experiment 1, people learned materials to different levels. This learning involved cued recall testing during memorisation. Linear forgetting was observed with increased learning. For Experiment 2, learning did not involve cued recall testing. Linear forgetting was not observed. Although our aim was not to test theories of retrieval practice, for Experiment 3, we showed that when people engage in this process, the pattern of retention and forgetting becomes more linear. Overall, these data are consistent with the RAFT theory and support mechanisms that it suggests can lead to the observation of linear forgetting.
Are low doses of non-vitamin K antagonists effective in Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation? A report from the Optimal Thromboprophylaxis in Elderly Chinese Patients with Atrial Fibrillation (ChiOTEAF) registry
Authors: Kotalczyk Agnieszka , Guo Yutao , Wang Yutang , Lip Gregory YH ,   on behalf of the ChiOTEAF Registry Investigators
Published: October 2021

Background

Suboptimal low dosages of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are often inappropriately used due to a fear of bleeding, particularly among elderly patients. Such practice is common in Asia, and we aimed to evaluate the use of low-dose NOACs and their impact on clinical outcomes among Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation.

Methods

The Optimal Thromboprophylaxis in Elderly Chinese Patients with Atrial Fibrillation (ChiOTEAF) registry was a prospective, multicenter study conducted in China from October 2014 to December 2018. For this report, we included NOAC-treated patients with available data on NOAC dosage and one-year follow-up. Logistic regression analysis assessed the association (adjusted for age, sex, prior ischemic stroke, prior major bleeding, heart failure, coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, current anemia) between the low doses and study outcomes among NOAC-treated patients, as well as comparisons with non-anticoagulated patients.

Results

The eligible cohort included 1310 NOAC-treated patients (mean age of 72.1 ± 10.9; 38.9% female), of whom 341 (26.0%) received a low “off-label” dose. The use of low-dose NOACs was independently associated with higher odds of the composite outcome (OR: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.11–5.71) and thromboembolism (OR: 4.73; 95% CI: 1.11–20.01). Compared with non-anticoagulated patients, lower rates of the composite outcome (7.3% vs. 11.3%; p = 0.025) and all-cause death (5.3% vs. 9.7%; p = 0.007) were seen in the low-dose group (ORs 0.50; 95% CI: 0.32–0.78, and 0.42; 95% CI: 0.26–0.70, respectively).

Conclusions

Low doses of NOACs should not be recommended as a part of standard therapy among Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation as their use was associated with a higher odds ratio of the composite outcome and thromboembolic events compared with standard dose NOAC regimens. Compared to non-treatment, the use of low-dose NOAC may result in a survival benefit (but not thromboembolic reduction) among high-risk patients.
Reimagining the cartographic nation: In praise of risk taking
Authors: Carraro Valentina
Published: October 2021

I read Rossetto and Lo Presti's article, ‘Reimagining the National Map’, as an invitation to develop what I call, following Eve Sedgwick, a reparative study of national cartographies. In this commentary, I enthusiastically support their call but also argue for the need to move from an appreciation of maps’ fundamental instability to a more daring engagement with the normative dimension of national mapping. Like many scholars working from a post-representational perspective, Rossetto and Lo Presti associate the fundamental dynamism and contingency of maps with (potential) positive social change and, more specifically, the development of multicultural national imaginaries. I suggest that these associations deserve further scrutiny and argue that change and ‘everydayness’ may offer a starting point, but not a basis for progressive national mappings. Finally, drawing on the thought-provoking examples presented by Rossetto and Lo Presti, I reflect on what principles and practices could guide a progressive national cartography of Italy in 2021.
Conquering the Neurodiversity Frontier for PwD Inclusion
Authors: Bidani Sandeep
Published: October 2021

Policies around hiring of disabled individuals across organisations have become more sophisticated over the past few years, and one major change has been the expansion in range of disabilities considered. There is a growing focus on, and appreciation of, the possibilities offered by people with neurodisabilities, such as autism and ADHD. These individuals are better categorised as ‘differently abled’ and can actually leverage their abilities to have a transformative impact.
Surgical Decision Making in Complex Facial Gunshot Wound Reconstruction
Authors: Nevil Collin , Heffern Eric , Przylecki Wojciech , Andrews Brian T.
Published: October 2021

Introduction: With a rise in gun violence across the United States, facial gunshot wounds (GSWs) present a challenging reconstructive problem that was once seldom encountered in civilian populations. Reconstruction of facial GSW injuries requires a combination of both microvascular and craniofacial surgical techniques. The aim of this study is to explore our experience with facial GSW injuries through an anatomic classification scheme and investigate the surgical techniques necessary to complete such reconstructions. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted at a tertiary academic center. All subjects who suffered facial GSWs and underwent definitive reconstruction at our institution were included. Facial GSWs were classified into 4 distinct anatomical zones of injury: lower (mandible), middle (maxilla and orbit), upper (above the orbit), and multi-zone injury. Microvascular reconstruction was further investigated based on the types of flaps used and the location of flap inset. Surgical outcomes, numbers of procedures, and complications were assessed, and statistical comparisons were made. Results: Thirty-six subjects underwent a total of 322 surgeries. Twenty subjects had multi-zone injury; 16 had single zone injury. Eighteen of the 36 subjects (50%) required microvascular reconstruction. These 18 subjects underwent a significantly increased number of reconstructive procedures ( P = .023). Twenty-six flaps were used, as multiple subjects required >1 flap. Fourteen of the 26 flaps were used in the middle third (54%), 7 in the lower third (27%), and 5 in the upper third (19%). Six flap complications required further surgical revision. On average, multi-zone injuries required more surgical procedures to complete reconstruction ( P = .018). Conclusion: Composite multi-zone facial GSW injuries present a higher degree of reconstructive complexity, and thus often require more surgical procedures, especially when the midface is involved. In our experience, microvascular reconstruction is more often used in multizone injury, and in our series was associated with an increased number of reconstructive procedures.
A prognostic model for patients with lymphoma and COVID-19: a multicentre cohort study
Authors: Visco Carlo , Marcheselli Luigi , Mina Roberto , Sassone Marianna , Guidetti Anna , Penna Domenico , Cattaneo Chiara , Bonuomo Valentina , Busca Alessandro , Ferreri Andrés José María , Bruna Riccardo , Petrucci Luigi , Cairoli Roberto , Salvini Marco , Bertù Lorenza , Ladetto Marco , Pilerci Sofia , Pinto Antonello , Ramadan Safaa , Marchesi Francesco , Cavo Michele , Arcaini Luca , Coviello Elisa , Romano Alessandra , Musto Pellegrino , Massaia Massimo , Fracchiolla Nicola , Marchetti Monia , Scattolin Annamaria , Tisi Maria Chiara , Cuneo Antonio , Della Porta Matteo , Trentin Livio , Turrini Marco , Gherlinzoni Filippo , Tafuri Agostino , Galimberti Sara , Bocchia Monica , Cardinali Valeria , Cilloni Daniela , Corso Alessandro , Armiento Daniele , Rigacci Luigi , La Barbera Elettra Ortu , Gambacorti-Passerini Carlo , Visani Giuseppe , Vallisa Daniele , Venditti Adriano , Selleri Carmine , Conconi Annarita , Tosi Patrizia , Lanza Francesco , Candoni Anna , Krampera Mauro , Corradini Paolo , Passamonti Francesco , Merli Francesco ,   on behalf of the ITA-HEMA-COV investigators
Published: October 2021

Lymphoma represents a heterogeneous hematological malignancy (HM), which is characterized by severe immunosuppression. Patients diagnosed of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during the course of HM have been described to have poor outcome, with only few reports specifically addressing lymphoma patients. Here, we investigated the clinical behavior and clinical parameters of a large multicenter cohort of adult patients with different lymphoma subtypes, with the aim of identifying predictors of death. The study included 856 patients, of whom 619 were enrolled prospectively in a 1-year frame and were followed-up for a median of 66 days (range 1-395). Patients were managed as outpatient (not-admitted cohort, n = 388) or required hospitalization (n = 468), and median age was 63 years (range 19-94). Overall, the 30- and 100-days mortality was 13% (95% confidence interval (CI), 11% to 15%) and 23% (95% CI, 20% to 27%), respectively. Antilymphoma treatment, including anti-CD20 containing regimens, did not impact survival. Patients with Hodgkin’s lymphoma had the more favorable survival, but this was partly related to significantly younger age. The time interval between lymphoma diagnosis and COVID-19 was inversely related to mortality. Multivariable analysis recognized 4 easy-to-use factors (age, gender, lymphocyte, and platelet count) that were associated with risk of death, both in the admitted and in the not-admitted cohort (HR 3.79 and 8.85 for the intermediate- and high-risk group, respectively). Overall, our study shows that patients should not be deprived of the best available treatment of their underlying disease and indicates which patients are at higher risk of death. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04352556.
Smart nanomaterial and nanocomposite with advanced agrochemical activities
Authors: Kumar Antul , Choudhary Anuj , Kaur Harmanjot , Mehta Sahil , Husen Azamal
Published: October 2021

Conventional agriculture solely depends upon highly chemical compounds that have negatively ill-affected the health of every living being and the entire ecosystem. Thus, the smart delivery of desired components in a sustainable manner to crop plants is the primary need to maintain soil health in the upcoming years. The premature loss of growth-promoting ingredients and their extended degradation in the soil increases the demand for reliable novel techniques. In this regard, nanotechnology has offered to revolutionize the agrotechnological area that has the imminent potential over conventional agriculture and helps to reform resilient cropping systems withholding prominent food security for the ever-growing world population. Further, in-depth investigation on plant-nanoparticles interactions creates new avenues toward crop improvement via enhanced crop yield, disease resistance, and efficient nutrient utilization. The incorporation of nanomaterial with smart agrochemical activities and establishing a new framework relevant to enhance efficacy ultimately help to address the social acceptance, potential hazards, and management issues in the future. Here, we highlight the role of nanomaterial or nanocomposite as a sustainable as well stable alternative in crop protection and production. Additionally, the information on the controlled released system, role in interaction with soil and microbiome, the promising role of nanocomposite as nanopesticide, nanoherbicide, nanofertilizer, and their limitations in agrochemical activities are discussed in the present review.
Protein kinase C regulates organic anion transporter 1 through phosphorylating ubiquitin ligase Nedd4–2
Authors: Yu Zhou , Liu Chenchang , Zhang Jinghui , Liang Zhengxuan , You Guofeng
Published: October 2021

Background

Organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1) is a drug transporter expressed on the basolateral membrane of the proximal tubule cells in kidneys. It plays an essential role in the disposition of numerous clinical therapeutics, impacting their pharmacological and toxicological properties. The activation of protein kinase C (PKC) is shown to facilitate OAT1 internalization from cell surface to intracellular compartments and thereby reducing cell surface expression and transport activity of the transporter. The PKC-regulated OAT1 internalization occurs through ubiquitination, a process catalyzed by a E3 ubiquitin ligase, neural precursor cell expressed developmentally down-regulated 4–2 (Nedd4–2). Nedd4–2 directly interacts with OAT1 and affects ubiquitination, expression and stability of the transporter. However, whether Nedd4–2 is a direct substrate for PKC-induced phosphorylation is unknown.

Results

In this study, we investigated the role of Nedd4–2 phosphorylation in the PKC regulation of OAT1. The results showed that PKC activation enhanced the phosphorylation of Nedd4–2 and increased the OAT1 ubiquitination, which was accompanied by a decreased OAT1 cell surface expression and transport function. And the effects of PKC could be reversed by PKC-specific inhibitor staurosporine. We further discovered that the quadruple mutant (T197A/S221A/S354A/S420A) of Nedd4–2 partially blocked the effects of PKC on Nedd4–2 phosphorylation and on OAT1 transport activity.

Conclusions

Our investigation demonstrates that PKC regulates OAT1 likely through direct phosphorylation of Nedd4–2. And four phosphorylation sites (T197, S221, S354, and S420) of Nedd4–2 in combination play an important role in this regulatory process.
Evolution and structural variations in chloroplast tRNAs in gymnosperms
Authors: Zhao Yu-He , Zhou Tong , Wang Jiu-Xia , Li Yan , Fang Min-Feng , Liu Jian-Ni , Li Zhong-Hu
Published: October 2021

Background

Chloroplast transfer RNAs (tRNAs) can participate in various vital processes. Gymnosperms have important ecological and economic value, and they are the dominant species in forest ecosystems in the Northern Hemisphere. However, the evolution and structural changes in chloroplast tRNAs in gymnosperms remain largely unclear.

Results

In this study, we determined the nucleotide evolution, phylogenetic relationships, and structural variations in 1779 chloroplast tRNAs in gymnosperms. The numbers and types of tRNA genes present in the chloroplast genomes of different gymnosperms did not differ greatly, where the average number of tRNAs was 33 and the frequencies of occurrence for various types of tRNAs were generally consistent. Nearly half of the anticodons were absent. Molecular sequence variation analysis identified the conserved secondary structures of tRNAs. About a quarter of the tRNA genes were found to contain precoded 3′ CCA tails. A few tRNAs have undergone novel structural changes that are closely related to their minimum free energy, and these structural changes affect the stability of the tRNAs. Phylogenetic analysis showed that tRNAs have evolved from multiple common ancestors. The transition rate was higher than the transversion rate in gymnosperm chloroplast tRNAs. More loss events than duplication events have occurred in gymnosperm chloroplast tRNAs during their evolutionary process.

Conclusions

These findings provide novel insights into the molecular evolution and biological characteristics of chloroplast tRNAs in gymnosperms.
Characterization of fungal communities on shared bicycles in Southwest China
Authors: Peng Lu , Qin Bi , Shen Zhu , Wang Siyu
Published: October 2021

Background

The widespread use of shared bicycles has increased the demand and sanitary requirements for shared bicycles. Previous studies have identified potentially pathogenic bacteria on the surfaces of shared bicycles, but fungal communities have not been investigated.

Methods

We sampled shared-bicycle handles and saddles from five selected locations in a metropolis (Chengdu, China, n = 98) and used surrounding air deposition samples as controls (n = 12). Full-length ITS sequencing and multiple bioinformatic analyses were utilized to reveal fungal community structures and differences.

Results

Aspergillus was dominant on both the handles and saddles of shared bicycles, and Alternaria and Cladosporium were the most abundant families in the air samples. Significant differences in fungal community structures were found among the three groups. The handle samples contained higher abundances of Aureobasidium melanogenum and Filobasidium magnum than the saddle and air samples. The saddle samples had a higher abundance of Cladosporium tenuissimum than the other two sample types (P < 0·05). A higher abundance of fungal animal pathogens on shared-bicycle surfaces than in air by FUNGuild (P < 0·05). Moreover, the co-occurrence network of fungi on handles was more stable than that on saddles.

Conclusion

There were more potential pathogens, including Aspergillus pseudoglaucus, Aureobasidium melanogenum, Kazachstania pintolopesii, Filobasidium magnum, Candida tropicalis, and Malassezia globose were found on shared bicycles than in air, suggesting that hands should not contact mucous membrane after cycling, especially in susceptible individuals, and hygiene management of shared bicycles should be given more attention by relevant organizations worldwide.
Overexpression of a carrot BCH gene, DcBCH1, improves tolerance to drought in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Li Tong , Liu Jie-Xia , Deng Yuan-Jie , Xu Zhi-Sheng , Xiong Ai-Sheng
Published: October 2021

Background

Carrot (Daucus carotaL.), an important root vegetable, is very popular among consumers as its taproot is rich in various nutrients. Abiotic stresses, such as drought, salt, and low temperature, are the main factors that restrict the growth and development of carrots. Non-heme carotene hydroxylase (BCH) is a key regulatory enzyme in the β-branch of the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway, upstream of the abscisic acid (ABA) synthesis pathway.

Results

In this study, we characterized a carrot BCH encoding gene,DcBCH1. The expression ofDcBCH1was induced by drought treatment. The overexpression ofDcBCH1inArabidopsis thalianaresulted in enhanced tolerance to drought, as demonstrated by higher antioxidant capacity and lower malondialdehyde content after drought treatment. Under drought stress, the endogenous ABA level in transgenicA. thalianawas higher than that in wild-type (WT) plants. Additionally, the contents of lutein and β-carotene in transgenicA. thalianawere lower than those in WT, whereas the expression levels of most endogenous carotenogenic genes were significantly increased after drought treatment.

Conclusions

DcBCH1can increase the antioxidant capacity and promote endogenous ABA levels of plants by regulating the synthesis rate of carotenoids, thereby regulating the drought resistance of plants. These results will help to provide potential candidate genes for plant drought tolerance breeding.
Rheumatic heart disease in The Gambia: clinical and valvular aspects at presentation and evolution under penicillin prophylaxis
Authors: Jaiteh Lamin E. S. , Drammeh Lamin , Anderson Suzanne T. , Mendy John , Ceesay Samba , D’Alessandro Umberto , Carapetis Jonathan , Mirabel Mariana , Erhart Annette
Published: October 2021

Background

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains the leading cause of cardiac-related deaths and disability in children and young adults worldwide. In The Gambia, the RHD burden is thought to be high although no data are available and no control programme is yet implemented. We conducted a pilot study to generate baseline data on the clinical and valvular characteristics of RHD patients at first presentation, adherence to penicillin prophylaxis and the evolution of lesions over time.

Methods

All patients registered with acute rheumatic fever (ARF) or RHD at two Gambian referral hospitals were invited for a clinical review that included echocardiography. In addition, patients were interviewed about potential risk factors, disease history, and treatment adherence. All clinical and echocardiography information at first presentation and during follow-up was retrieved from medical records.

Results

Among 255 registered RHD patients, 35 had died, 127 were examined, and 111 confirmed RHD patients were enrolled, 64% of them females. The case fatality rate in 2017 was estimated at 19.6%. At first presentation, median age was 13 years (IQR [9; 18]), 57% patients had late stage heart failure, and 84.1% a pathological heart murmur. Although 53.2% of them reported history of recurrent sore throat, only 32.2% of them had sought medical treatment. A history suggestive of ARF was reported by 48.7% patients out of whom only 15.8% were adequately treated. Two third of the patients (65.5%) to whom it was prescribed were fully adherent to penicillin prophylaxis. Progressive worsening and repeated hospitalisation was experienced by 46.8% of the patients. 17 patients had cardiac surgery, but they represented only 18.1% of the 94 patients estimated eligible for cardiac surgery.

Conclusion

This study highlights for the first time in The Gambia the devastating consequences of RHD on the health of adolescents and young adults. Our findings suggest a high burden of disease that remains largely undetected and without appropriate secondary prophylaxis. There is a need for the urgent implementation of an effective national RHD control programto decrease the unacceptably high mortality rate, improve case detection and management, and increase community awareness of this disease.
Convalescent plasma treatment for patients of 80 years and older with COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Romon Iñigo , Dominguez-Garcia Juan J. , Arroyo Jose L. , Suberviola Borja , Cabezón Itxasne , Abascal Beatriz , Baldeón Cristina , Cuesta Amalia , Portilla Raquel , Casuso Elena , Ocio Enrique , Briz Montserrat
Published: October 2021

Background

Older patients, frequently with multiple comorbidities, have a high mortality from COVID-19 infection. Convalescent plasma (CP) is a therapeutic option for these patients. Our objective is to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and adverse events of CP treatment in this population group.

Methods

Forty one patients over 80 years old with COVID-19 pneumonia received CP added to standard treatment, 51.2% with high anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG titers and 48.8% with low titers. Median time between the onset of symptoms and the infusion of plasma was 7 days (IQR 4–10). A similar group of 82 patients who received only standard treatment, during a period in which CP was not available, were selected as a control group.

Results

In-hospital mortality was 26.8% for controls and 14.6% for CP patients (P = 0.131) and ICU admission was 8.5% for controls and 4.9% for CP patients (P = 0.467). Mortality tended to be lower in the high-titer group (9.5%) than in the low-titer group (20%), and in patients transfused within the first 7 days of symptom onset (10%) than in patients transfused later (19.1%), although the differences were not statistically significant (P = 0.307 and P = 0.355 respectively). There was no difference in the length of hospitalization. No significant adverse events were associated with CP treatment.

Conclusions

Convalescent plasma treatment in patients over 80 years old with COVID-19 pneumonia was well tolerated but did not present a statistically significant difference in hospital mortality, ICU admission, or length of hospitalization. The results should be interpreted with caution as only half the patients received high-titer CP and the small number of patients included in the study limits the statistical power to detect significant differences.

Trial registration

CEIm Cantabria # 2020.127.
Patients with Parkinson’s disease predict a lower incidence of colorectal cancer
Authors: Fang Hongsheng , Du Yunlan , Pan Shuting , Zhong Ming , Tang Jiayin
Published: October 2021

Background

Recent theory on the “gut-brain axis” suggests a close relationship between the dysfunction of the gut and the disorders of the brain.

Methods

We performed a systemic literature search followed by a multi-step inclusion selection for all studies on the risk of Colorectal cancer (CRC) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients using the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE and WOS. Relative risk (RR) and the 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using either the random-effects model or the fixed-effects meta-analysis model, based on the assessment of heterogeneity.

Results

Seventeen studies involving a total of 375,964 PD patients and 879,307 cancer patients were included. Independent meta-analyses for cohort studies and case-control studies showed that the overall pooled RR of the cohort studies was 0.78 (0.66–0.91), and that of the case-control studies was 0.78 (0.65–0.94), indicating that patients with PD have a significantly decreased risk for CRC. The significant lower risk is present in both the colon and the rectum subgroups classified by tumor location. Moreover, the risk for CRC is significantly lower in America (RR = 0.58), Europe (RR = 0.82) and Asia (RR = 0.83) compared to the control population.

Conclusion

The occurrence of CRC was significantly lower in patients with diagnosis of PD.
Urban-rural differences in the association between social activities and depressive symptoms among older adults in China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Yanan , Li Zhen , Fu Chang
Published: October 2021

Background

Participation in social activities has positive health effects among older adults; however, few studies have investigated the association between social activity and depressive symptoms among Chinese older adults. This study aimed to examine the association between social activities and depressive symptoms among older adults in China regarding urban-rural differences.

Methods

Data were collected from 8255 respondents from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Type and frequency of social activities were collected via a questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to explore the relationship between social activities and depressive symptoms.

Results

In our study, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was lower in urban older adults compared with rural older adults (25.2% vs. 40.7%). After adjustment for all covariates, our results indicated that interacting with friends almost weekly or almost daily (almost weekly: OR = 0.568, 95%CI: 0.337–0.955; almost daily: OR = 0.664, 95%CI: 0.453–0.973) and participating in community organizations almost daily were inversely associated with depressive symptoms among urban older adults (OR = 0.107, 95%CI: 0.012–0.952). Interacting with friends almost daily (OR = 0.847, 95% CI: 0.720–0.996) and participation in hobby groups either almost every week or almost daily were both inversely associated with depressive symptoms among rural older adults (almost weekly: OR = 0.683, 95%CI: 0.518–0.902; almost daily: OR = 0.567, 95%CI: 0.440–0.731). Participating in sports groups almost daily was inversely associated with depressive symptoms among both urban and rural older adults (urban: OR = 0.664, 95%CI: 0.445–0.991; rural: OR = 0.506, 95%CI: 0.366–0.700).

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that there is a cross-sectional association between participation in social activities and depressive symptoms among Chinese older adults, and the association differed between urban and rural older adults. This implies that participation in social activities may be significant for alleviating depressive symptoms of older adults. When encouraging older adults to participate in social activities, the government should consider urban-rural differences and take effective measures accordingly. Longitudinal studies are needed to examine the causal relationships between social activities and depressive symptoms among older adults.
Diagnosis pitfall of interstitial pregnancy: a case report of a term pregnancy with abnormal placentation
Authors: Najib Fatemeh Sadat , Vafaei Homeira , Foroughi Amin Abolhasan , Namazi Niloofar
Published: October 2021

Background

Interstitial Pregnancy (IP) is a lethal condition due to high risk of sudden onset massive hemorrhage. Such conditions are managed as soon as diagnosed almost in the first trimester. There are a few case reports of IP conditions terminated after the second trimester. Herein, we introduce a term interstitial pregnancy complicated by abnormal placentation.

Case presentation

In this case report, we introduce a 32-year-old lady, primigravida, with an undiagnosed IP that was in her 38 weeks of gestational with placenta increta. She developed with perforated IP presenting with acute abdomen and internal bleeding at 26 weeks of gestational age. However, with a misdiagnosis impression, she got stable in operation room. Then, the pregnancy continued till 36 weeks of gestational age that was misdiagnosed with cervical cancer in prenatal work-ups. Finally, during elective cesarean section at 38 weeks, an IP with placenta increta (placenta evading from the serosa to the myometrium of the uterus) was observed. The baby was healthy with no obvious anomaly or morbidity.

Conclusions

Physicians should be aware to detect IP in all trimesters and pay attention to the coexisting complications such as placenta accreta to manage them more accurately.
A very preterm infant born to mother of mirror syndrome secondary to fetomaternal hemorrhage: a case report
Authors: Song Sijie , Zhu Yefang , Jorch Gerhard , Zhang Xiaoting , Wu Yan , Chen Wen , Gong Hua , Zhou Ligang , Wang Xueyan , Zhong Xiaoyun
Published: October 2021

Background

Mirror syndrome (MS) is defined as maternal edema with fetal hydrops and placental edema with different etiologies, such as rhesus isoimmunization and twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Herein, we showcased a unique MS case secondary to fetomaternal hemorrhage (FMH).

Case presentation

A 32-year-old gravida 2 para 0 woman diagnosed with fetal hydrops was admitted to our hospital. Maternal laboratory tests revealed anemia, slightly increased creatinine and uric acid levels, hypoproteinemia, and significantly increased alpha-fetoprotein and hemoglobin-F levels. Therefore, FMH was diagnosed initially. Two days after admission, the woman had unexpectedly progressive anasarca and started to feel chest distress, palpitations, lethargy, and oliguria, and MS was suspected. An emergency cesarean section was performed to terminate the pregnancy. The maternal clinical symptoms and laboratory tests rapidly improved after delivery. A very preterm infant with a 2080-g birthweight at 31 weeks gestation survived after emergency cesarean section, active resuscitation, emergency blood transfusion, abdominocentesis, and advanced life support.

Conclusions

FMH could develop into MS, providing new insights into the etiology of MS. Once MS is diagnosed, emergency cesarean section might be an alternative treatment. The very preterm infant survived with a favorable long-term outcome, and a well-trained perinatal work team is needed for such cases.
The PROCEM study protocol: Added value of preoperative contrast-enhanced mammography in staging of malignant breast lesions - a prospective randomized multicenter study
Authors: Åhsberg Kristina , Gardfjell Anna , Nimeus Emma , Ryden Lisa , Zackrisson Sophia
Published: October 2021

Background

Correct preoperative estimation of the malignant extent is crucial for optimal planning of breast cancer surgery. The sensitivity of mammography is lower in dense breasts, and additional imaging techniques are sometimes warranted. Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) has shown similar sensitivity and in some cases better specificity, than magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in small, observational studies. CEM may be more cost-effective than MRI, and may provide better identification of the tumor extent, however, no randomized trials have been performed to date to investigate the added value of CEM.

In a feasibility study, we found that the treatment was changed in 10/47 (21%) cases after additional CEM. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the added value of CEM in preoperative staging of breast cancer in a randomized study.

Method

This prospective randomized study will include 440 patients with strongly suspected or established diagnosis of breast malignancy, based on assessment with mammography, ultrasound and core biopsy/cytology, and for whom primary surgery is planned. Patients will be randomized 1:1 using a web-based randomization tool to additional investigation with CEM or no further imaging. The CEM findings will be taken into consideration, which may lead to changes in primary treatment, which is the primary endpoint of this study. Secondary endpoints include rate of reoperation and number of avoidable mastectomies, as well as a cost-benefit analysis of additional CEM. Patient-reported health-related quality of life will be investigated at 1 year with the validated Breast-Q™ questionnaire. The rate of local recurrence or new cancer ipsi- or contralaterally within 5 years will be assessed from medical records and pathology reports.

Discussion

The aim of this trial is to explore the added value of CEM in preoperative staging of breast cancer. The results obtained from this study will contribute to our knowledge on CEM as an additional imaging method to standard investigation with digital mammography and ultrasound. The findings may also provide additional information on which patient groups would benefit from CEM, and on the economic aspects of CEM in standard preoperative practice.

Trial registration

This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov, registration no: NCT04437602, date of registration: June 18, 2020.