bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CAR-T cells and BiTEs in solid tumors: challenges and perspectives
Authors: Edeline Julien , Houot Roch , Marabelle Aurélien , Alcantara Marion
Published: April 2021

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells and BiTEs are both immunotherapies which redirect T cell specificity against a tumor-specific antigen through the use of antibody fragments. They demonstrated remarkable efficacy in B cell hematologic malignancies, thus paving the way for their development in solid tumors. Nonetheless, the use of such new drugs to treat solid tumors is not straightforward. So far, the results from early phase clinical trials are not as impressive as expected but many improvements are under way. In this review we present an overview of the clinical development of CAR-T cells and BiTEs targeting the main antigens expressed by solid tumors. We emphasize the most frequent hurdles encountered by either CAR-T cells or BiTEs, or both, and summarize the strategies that have been proposed to overcome these obstacles.
Personalized genome structure via single gamete sequencing
Authors: Lyu Ruqian , Tsui Vanessa , McCarthy Davis J. , Crismani Wayne
Published: April 2021

Genetic maps have been fundamental to building our understanding of disease genetics and evolutionary processes. The gametes of an individual contain all of the information required to perform a de novo chromosome-scale assembly of an individual’s genome, which historically has been performed with populations and pedigrees. Here, we discuss how single-cell gamete sequencing offers the potential to merge the advantages of short-read sequencing with the ability to build personalized genetic maps and open up an entirely new space in personalized genetics.
Diaphragmatic paralysis, respiratory function, and postoperative pain after interscalene brachial plexus block with a reduced dose of 10 ml levobupivacaine 0.25% versus a 20 ml dose in patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery: study protocol for the randomized controlled double-blind REDOLEV study
Authors: Oliver-Fornies P. , Ortega Lahuerta J. P. , Gomez Gomez R. , Gonzalo Pellicer I. , Oliden Gutierrez L. , Viñuales Cabeza J. , Gallego Ligorit L. , Orellana Melgar C. E.
Published: April 2021

Background

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery causes severe postoperative pain. An interscalene brachial plexus block provides adequate analgesia, but unintended spread of the local anesthetic administered may result in a phrenic nerve block, usually associated with a nonnegligible incidence of acute hemidiaphragmatic paralysis.

The main purpose of this trial will be to analyze the incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis ensuing after interscalene brachial plexus block in patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery administered a standard volume (20 ml) vs. a low volume (10 ml) of levobupivacaine 0.25%.

Methods

This will be a prospective double-blind randomized controlled single-center two-arm comparative trial. Forty-eight patients will be included. The primary goal will be to ultrasonographically determine the incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis by calculating the diaphragmatic thickness ratio in each group. The secondary goals will be to compare the two arms in terms of (1) decrease in forced vital capacity and (2) in forced expiratory volume at 1 s by spirometry; (3) decrease in diaphragmatic excursion by ultrasound; (4) 24-h total intravenous morphine consumption; (5) time to first opioid request of a patient-controlled analgesia pump; and (6) postoperative complications.

Discussion

This trial will demonstrate that a low-volume interscalene brachial plexus block decreases hemidiaphragmatic paralysis following arthroscopic shoulder surgery according to spirometry and ultrasound measurements and does not provide inferior postoperative analgesia to the standard volume, as measured by opioid requirements.

Trial registration

EudraCT and Spanish Trial Register (REec) registration number: 2019-003855-12 (registered on 7 January 2020). ClinicalTrials.gov identification number: NCT04385966 (retrospectively registered on 8 May 2020). Ethics Committee approval: EC19/093 (18 December 2019).
Mitochondrial protein CMPK2 regulates IFN alpha-enhanced foam cell formation, potentially contributing to premature atherosclerosis in SLE
Authors: Lai Jenn-Haung , Hung Li-Feng , Huang Chuan-Yueh , Wu De-Wei , Wu Chien-Hsiang , Ho Ling-Jun
Published: April 2021

Background

Premature atherosclerosis occurs in patients with SLE; however, the mechanisms remain unclear. Both mitochondrial machinery and proinflammatory cytokine interferon alpha (IFN-α) potentially contribute to atherogenic processes in SLE. Here, we explore the roles of the mitochondrial protein cytidine/uridine monophosphate kinase 2 (CMPK2) in IFN-α-mediated pro-atherogenic events.

Methods

Foam cell measurements were performed by oil red O staining, Dil-oxLDL uptake and the BODIPY approach. The mRNA and protein levels were measured by qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. Isolation of CD4+ T cells and monocytes was performed with monoclonal antibodies conjugated with microbeads. Manipulation of protein expression was conducted by either small interference RNA (siRNA) knockdown or CRISPR/Cas9 knockout. The expression of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) was determined by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy.

Results

IFN-α enhanced oxLDL-induced foam cell formation and Dil-oxLDL uptake by macrophages. In addition to IFN-α, several triggers of atherosclerosis, including thrombin and IFN-γ, can induce CMPK2 expression, which was elevated in CD4+ T cells and CD14+ monocytes isolated from SLE patients compared to those isolated from controls. The analysis of cellular subfractions revealed that CMPK2 was present in both mitochondrial and cytosolic fractions. IFN-α-induced CMPK2 expression was inhibited by Janus kinase (JAK)1/2 and tyrosine kinase 2 (Tyk2) inhibitors. Both the knockdown and knockout of CMPK2 attenuated IFN-α-mediated foam cell formation, which involved the reduction of scavenger receptor class A (SR-A) expression. CMPK2 also regulated IFN-α-enhanced mtROS production and inflammasome activation.

Conclusions

The study suggests that CMPK2 plays contributing roles in the pro-atherogenic effects of IFN-α.
An EPIC predictor of gestational age and its application to newborns conceived by assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Haftorn Kristine L. , Lee Yunsung , Denault William R. P. , Page Christian M. , Nustad Haakon E. , Lyle Robert , Gjessing Håkon K. , Malmberg Anni , Magnus Maria C. , Næss Øyvind , Czamara Darina , Räikkönen Katri , Lahti Jari , Magnus Per , Håberg Siri E. , Jugessur Astanand , Bohlin Jon
Published: April 2021

Background

Gestational age is a useful proxy for assessing developmental maturity, but correct estimation of gestational age is difficult using clinical measures. DNA methylation at birth has proven to be an accurate predictor of gestational age. Previous predictors of epigenetic gestational age were based on DNA methylation data from the Illumina HumanMethylation 27 K or 450 K array, which have subsequently been replaced by the Illumina MethylationEPIC 850 K array (EPIC). Our aims here were to build an epigenetic gestational age clock specific for the EPIC array and to evaluate its precision and accuracy using the embryo transfer date of newborns from the largest EPIC-derived dataset to date on assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

Methods

We built an epigenetic gestational age clock using Lasso regression trained on 755 randomly selected non-ART newborns from the Norwegian Study of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (START)—a substudy of the Norwegian Mother, Father, and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). For the ART-conceived newborns, the START dataset had detailed information on the embryo transfer date and the specific ART procedure used for conception. The predicted gestational age was compared to clinically estimated gestational age in 200 non-ART and 838 ART newborns using MM-type robust regression. The performance of the clock was compared to previously published gestational age clocks in an independent replication sample of 148 newborns from the Prediction and Prevention of Preeclampsia and Intrauterine Growth Restrictions (PREDO) study—a prospective pregnancy cohort of Finnish women.

Results

Our new epigenetic gestational age clock showed higher precision and accuracy in predicting gestational age than previous gestational age clocks (R2 = 0.724, median absolute deviation (MAD) = 3.14 days). Restricting the analysis to CpGs shared between 450 K and EPIC did not reduce the precision of the clock. Furthermore, validating the clock on ART newborns with known embryo transfer date confirmed that DNA methylation is an accurate predictor of gestational age (R2 = 0.767, MAD = 3.7 days).

Conclusions

We present the first EPIC-based predictor of gestational age and demonstrate its robustness and precision in ART and non-ART newborns. As more datasets are being generated on the EPIC platform, this clock will be valuable in studies using gestational age to assess neonatal development.
Assessment and management of disease burden and quality of life in patients with hereditary angioedema: a consensus report
Authors: Bork Konrad , Anderson John T. , Caballero Teresa , Craig Timothy , Johnston Douglas T. , Li H. Henry , Longhurst Hilary J. , Radojicic Cristine , Riedl Marc A.
Published: April 2021

Background

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare disease characterized by unpredictable, potentially life-threatening attacks, resulting in significant physical and emotional burdens for patients and families. To optimize care for patients with HAE, an individualized management plan should be considered in partnership with the physician, requiring comprehensive assessment of the patient’s frequency and severity of attacks, disease burden, and therapeutic control. Although several guidelines and consensus papers have been published concerning the diagnosis and treatment of HAE, there has been limited specific clinical guidance on the assessment of disease burden and quality of life (QoL) in this patient population. Practical guidance is critical in supporting effective long-term clinical management of HAE and improving patient outcomes. The objective of this review is to provide evidence-based guidelines for an individualized assessment of disease burden and QoL in patients with HAE.

Methods

A consensus meeting was held on February 29, 2020, consisting of 9 HAE experts from the United States and Europe with extensive clinical experience in the treatment of HAE. Consensus statements were developed based on a preliminary literature review and discussions from the consensus meeting.

Results

Final statements reflect the consensus of the expert panel and include the assessment of attack severity, evaluation of disease burden, and long-term clinical management of HAE caused by C1-esterase inhibitor deficiency. Patient-reported outcome measures for assessing HAE attack severity and frequency are available and valuable tools; however, attack frequency and severity are insufficient markers of disease severity unless they are evaluated in the broader context of the effect on an individual patient’s QoL. QoL assessments should be individualized for each patient and minimally, they should address the interference of HAE with work, school, social, family, and physical activity, along with access to and burden of HAE treatment. Advances in HAE therapies offer the opportunity for comprehensive, individualized treatment plans, allowing patients to achieve minimal attack burden with reduced disease and treatment burden.

Conclusion

This consensus report builds on existing guidelines by expanding the assessment of disease burden and QoL measures for patients with HAE.
Genome-wide identification of the GATA transcription factor family and their expression patterns under temperature and salt stress in Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Jiang Chunmiao , Lv Gongbo , Ge Jinxin , He Bin , Zhang Zhe , Hu Zhihong , Zeng Bin
Published: April 2021

GATA transcription factors (TFs) are involved in the regulation of growth processes and various environmental stresses. Although GATA TFs involved in abiotic stress in plants and some fungi have been analyzed, information regarding GATA TFs in Aspergillusoryzae is extremely poor. In this study, we identified and functionally characterized seven GATA proteins from A.oryzae 3.042 genome, including a novel AoSnf5 GATA TF with 20-residue between the Cys-X2-Cys motifs which was found in Aspergillus GATA TFs for the first time. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that these seven A. oryzae GATA TFs could be classified into six subgroups. Analysis of conserved motifs demonstrated that Aspergillus GATA TFs with similar motif compositions clustered in one subgroup, suggesting that they might possess similar genetic functions, further confirming the accuracy of the phylogenetic relationship. Furthermore, the expression patterns of seven A.oryzae GATA TFs under temperature and salt stresses indicated that A. oryzae GATA TFs were mainly responsive to high temperature and high salt stress. The protein–protein interaction network of A.oryzae GATA TFs revealed certain potentially interacting proteins. The comprehensive analysis of A. oryzae GATA TFs will be beneficial for understanding their biological function and evolutionary features and provide an important starting point to further understand the role of GATA TFs in the regulation of distinct environmental conditions in A.oryzae.
Evaluation of an oxygen‐dependent self‐inducible surfactin synthesis in B. subtilis by substitution of native promoter PsrfA by anaerobically active PnarG and PnasD
Authors: Hoffmann Mareen , Braig Alina , Fernandez Cano Luna Diana Stephanie , Rief Katharina , Becker Philipp , Treinen Chantal , Klausmann Peter , Morabbi Heravi Kambiz , Henkel Marius , Lilge Lars , Hausmann Rudolf
Published: April 2021

A novel approach targeting self-inducible surfactin synthesis under oxygen-limited conditions is presented. Because both the nitrate (NarGHI) and nitrite (NasDE) reductase are highly expressed during anaerobic growth ofB. subtilis, the native promoter PsrfAof the surfactin operon in strainB. subtilisJABs24 was replaced by promoters PnarGand PnasDto induce surfactin synthesis anaerobically. Shake flask cultivations with varying oxygen availabilities indicated no significant differences in native PsrfAexpression. As hypothesized, activity of PnarGand PnasDincreased with lower oxygen levels and surfactin was not produced by PsrfA::PnarGas well as PsrfA::PnasDmutant strains under conditions with highest oxygen availability. PnarGshowed expressions similar to PsrfAat lowest oxygen availability, while maximum value of PnasDwas more than 5.5-fold higher. Although the promoter exchange PsrfA::PnarGresulted in a decreased surfactin titer at lowest oxygen availability, the strain carrying PsrfA::PnasDreached a 1.4-fold increased surfactin concentration with 696 mg/L and revealed an exceptional high overallYP/Xof 1.007 g/g. This value also surpassed theYP/Xof the reference strain JABs24 at highest and moderate oxygen availability. Bioreactor cultivations illustrated that significant cell lysis occurred when the process of “anaerobization” was performed too fast. However, processes with a constantly low agitation and aeration rate showed promising potential for process improvement, especially by employing the strain carrying PsrfA::PnasDpromoter exchange. Additionally, replacement of other native promoters by nitrite reductase promoter PnasDrepresents a promising tool for anaerobic-inducible bioprocesses inBacillus.
3D B-Rep meshing for real-time data-based geometric parametric analysis
Authors: Maquart Tristan , Elguedj Thomas , Gravouil Anthony , Rochette Michel
Published: April 2021

This paper presents an effective framework to automatically construct 3D quadrilateral meshes of complicated geometry and arbitrary topology adapted for parametric studies. The input is a triangulation of the solid 3D model’s boundary provided from B-Rep CAD models or scanned geometry. The triangulated mesh is decomposed into a set of cuboids in two steps: pants decomposition and cuboid decomposition. This workflow includes an integration of a geometry-feature-aware pants-to-cuboids decomposition algorithm. This set of cuboids perfectly replicates the input surface topology. Using aligned global parameterization, patches are re-positioned on the surface in a way to achieve low overall distortion, and alignment to principal curvature directions and sharp features. Based on the cuboid decomposition and global parameterization, a 3D quadrilateral mesh is extracted. For different parametric instances with the same topology but different geometries, the MEG-IsoQuad method allows to have the same representation: isotopological meshes holding the same connectivity where each point on a mesh has an analogous one into all other meshes. Faithful 3D numerical charts of parametric geometries are then built using standard data-based techniques. Geometries are then evaluated in real-time. The efficiency and the robustness of the proposed approach are illustrated through a few parametric examples.
End-tidal to arterial PCO2 ratio: a bedside meter of the overall gas exchanger performance
Authors: Bonifazi Matteo , Romitti Federica , Busana Mattia , Palumbo Maria Michela , Steinberg Irene , Gattarello Simone , Palermo Paola , Saager Leif , Meissner Konrad , Quintel Michael , Chiumello Davide , Gattinoni Luciano
Published: April 2021

Background

The physiological dead space is a strong indicator of severity and outcome of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The “ideal” alveolar PCO2, in equilibrium with pulmonary capillary PCO2, is a central concept in the physiological dead space measurement. As it cannot be measured, it is surrogated by arterial PCO2which, unfortunately, may be far higher than ideal alveolar PCO2, when the right-to-left venous admixture is present. The “ideal” alveolar PCO2equals the end-tidal PCO2(PETCO2) only in absence of alveolar dead space. Therefore, in the perfect gas exchanger (alveolar dead space = 0, venous admixture = 0), the PETCO2/PaCO2is 1, as PETCO2, PACO2and PaCO2are equal. Our aim is to investigate if and at which extent the PETCO2/PaCO2, a comprehensive meter of the “gas exchanger” performance, is related to the anatomo physiological characteristics in ARDS.

Results

We retrospectively studied 200 patients with ARDS. The source was a database in which we collected since 2003 all the patients enrolled in different CT scan studies. The PETCO2/PaCO2, measured at 5 cmH2O airway pressure, significantly decreased from mild to mild–moderate moderate–severe and severe ARDS. The overall populations was divided into four groups (~ 50 patients each) according to the quartiles of the PETCO2/PaCO2(lowest ratio, the worst = group 1, highest ratio, the best = group 4). The progressive increase PETCO2/PaCO2from quartile 1 to 4 (i.e., the progressive approach to the “perfect” gas exchanger value of 1.0) was associated with a significant decrease of non-aerated tissue, inohomogeneity index and increase of well-aerated tissue. The respiratory system elastance significantly improved from quartile 1 to 4, as well as the PaO2/FiO2and PaCO2. The improvement of PETCO2/PaCO2was also associated with a significant decrease of physiological dead space and venous admixture. When PEEP was increased from 5 to 15 cmH2O, the greatest improvement of non-aerated tissue, PaO2and venous admixture were observed in quartile 1 of PETCO2/PaCO2and the worst deterioration of dead space in quartile 4.

Conclusion

The ratio PETCO2/PaCO2is highly correlated with CT scan, physiological and clinical variables. It appears as an excellent measure of the overall “gas exchanger” status.
Cross-cultural adaptation of body image assessment instruments for university students: a systematic review
Authors: da Silva Ravine Carvalho Pessanha Coelho , Amaral Ana Carolina Soares , Quintanilha Augusta Karla Silva , de Almeida Vitor Alexandre Rabelo , Rodrigues Marcus Vinicius Freitas , Oliveira Aldair J , Morgado Fabiane Frota da Rocha
Published: April 2021

The theoretical-methodological process of cross-cultural adaptation of scales is fundamental for the expansion of research possibilities related to a given area and population, as instrument adequacy allows for the consistent assessment of the construct being studied. This article aims to highlight the different theoretical-methodological processes of cross-cultural adaptations of scales for assessing body image among young university students. The articles were selected in February 2020, with the following search descriptors: (“body image”) and (young or “college students” or graduating or graduat *) and (“cross-cultural validation” or “cross-cultural adaptation”), in three databases—Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science, without any time restrictions. Altogether, 304 studies were surveyed on the different bases mentioned above, and 14 studies published between 2010 and 2019 were evaluated. This study highlighted the methodological procedures used in the process of cross-cultural adaptation, as well as the population, the types of validity and reliability, and also the main limitations, strengths, and results reported in each study included in this review. The information presented in this review will allow new researchers to make more appropriate choices about instruments for assessing body image in young university students, in addition to presenting the methodological evolution on this theme.
Effect of hydrolysable tannin on nutrient intake obesity and other associated metabolic risk factors in polycystic rats
Authors: Manzoor Faiza , Nisa Mahr Un , Hussain Hafiz Amjad , Khan Muhammad Kamran , Ahmad Rabia Shabir , Ahmad Nazir , Imran Muhammad , Umbreen Huma
Published: April 2021

Background

Food intake and eating behavior are two important risk factors that lead to obesity and other associated metabolic and reproductive disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Most of the phytonutrients like hydrolysable tannin (HT) have the ability to reduce the nutrient intake that might be a suitable remedy for weight management of females in their reproductive age. Therefore, the present research is aimed to find out the effect of HT on nutrient intake, weekly body weight, blood glucose, serum lipids, minerals, immunoglobulins and satiety hormones in PCOS rats.

Materials and methods

A total of forty five adult healthy female rats of 56 days old, weighed 135 ± 5 g with two consecutive estrous cycles were selected. In order to induce PCOS in rats, the intramuscular injection of 4 mg/rat/kg Estradiol- Valerate was used. After induction, a Complete Randomized Design was used to divide the rats into five equal groups (n = 9) named as Pc0, Pc0.5, Pc1, Pc1.5 and Pc2. The groups of rats were offered different doses of HT i.e. 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 % respectively per kg body weight in solution form through oral gavage once in a day for 60 days.

Results

After the intake of different levels of HT, the statistical results had shown a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the weekly nutrient intake, body weight, water intake, weight gain, fasting blood glucose in PCOS rats. A similar trend of decrease (p < 0.05) was noticed in serum iron, IgM, IgG, leptin, ghrelin, cholesterol, low density lipoprotein and triglycerides while a significant improvement (p < 0.05) was also observed in high density lipoprotein in the PCOS rats. However, a non-significant effect (p > 0.05) was observed on serum protein and calcium levels.

Conclusions

The study concluded that HT had a therapeutical potential to decrease the nutrient intake and its anti-nutritional property could be used as remedy for the management of body weight, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and cardiovascular risk factors of PCOS rats.
On the biocontrol by Trichoderma afroharzianum against Fusarium culmorum responsible of fusarium head blight and crown rot of wheat in Algeria
Authors: Bouanaka Hamza , Bellil Ines , Harrat Wahiba , Boussaha Saoussene , Benbelkacem Abdelkader , Khelifi Douadi
Published: April 2021

Background

Durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) is one of the most important cereals in the world. Unfortunately, the wheat plant is a target of several species of the genus Fusarium. This genus causes two serious diseases: fusarium crown rot (FCR) and fusarium head blight (FHB). The search for new indigenous strains of Trichoderma with a high potential for biocontrol against these two diseases was the purpose of this study.

Results

Biocontrol potential of 15 isolates of Trichoderma (T1 to T15), isolated from different rhizosphere soils and Algerian ecosystems, was evaluated against 4 strains of Fusarium culmorum (FC11, FC2, FC4, and FC20); the main causative agent of FCR and FHB. The efficacy of biological control by Trichoderma spp., evaluated by in vitro tests (direct and indirect confrontation), was confirmed by in vivo bioassays. The in vitro results showed a significant inhibition of mycelial growth of F. culmorum species than the control. The highest percentages of inhibition were obtained by T9, T12, and T14 isolates causing a maximum inhibition percentage of 81.81, 77.27, and 80.68%, respectively. T14 was selected for biocontrol in in vivo testing. A tube and pot experiments for FCR against F. culmorum showed that T14 decreased the disease severity with 50 and 63.63% reduction, respectively. FHB infection was significantly reduced by T14 in all durum wheat cultivars tested, where %AUDPC (area under the disease progress curve) reduction was 49.77, 43.43, 48.25, and 74.60% for Simeto, Waha, Bousselem, and Setifis genotypes, respectively. Yields also increased significantly for almost all cultivars. The antagonistic T14 was characterized based on molecular tools, using translation elongation factor1-alpha (TEF1-α) and internal transcribed spacers rDNA (ITS1). The results identified T14 as T. afroharzianum with accession numbers attributed by NCBI GenBank as MW171248 and MW159753.

Conclusions

Trichoderma afroharzianum, evaluated for the first time in Algeria as biocontrol agent, is a promising biocontrol approach against FCR and FHB.
On the potential of Bacillus aryabhattai KMT-4 against Meloidogyne javanica
Authors: Antil Sonam , Kumar Rakesh , Pathak D. V. , Kumar Anil , Panwar Anil , Kumari Anju , Kumar Vinod
Published: April 2021

Background

Nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are a major reason behind the global crop yield reduction. The bacterial strain KMT-4 was isolated from nematode-affected tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) rhizosphere at research farms, Hisar, India, and screened for its biocontrol potential against root-knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica as well as checked for its effect on plant growth and yield.

Results

The bacterium KMT-4 was identified as Bacillus aryabhattai based on phenotypic characters and 16S rRNA sequence analysis. During in vitro studies, hatching and mortality of M. javanica were significantly affected due to the antagonistic behavior exhibited by the bacterium. In addition to this, KMT-4 also displayed various direct as well as indirect plant growth-promoting attributes like siderophore production, growth hormone (IAA) production, ammonia excretion, hydrogen cyanide production, and chitinase activity. A pot house experiment conducted on brinjal resulted in nearly 73% reduction in eggs, while 80% reduction in galls in the plant root compared to the untreated and chemically treated plants. The final nematode population also reduced significantly in KMT-4 treatment. It was 1141.6 J2/200cc soil in control and reduced to 108 J2/200 cc soil inoculated with KMT-4. Similar results were obtained in field experiments on brinjal and cucumber conducted in years 2018 and 2019, respectively. Also, a notable enhancement in the plant growth was observed in both pot house experiment and field trials.

Conclusion

The possession of nematicidal activity along with plant growth-promoting properties in B. aryabhattai KMT-4 warrants its employment as a potent biological control agent against M. javanica and a promising substitute of chemical nematicides.
The Control of Wing Kinematics And Flight Forces In Fruit Flies (Drosophila Spp.)
Authors: Lehmann Fritz-Olaf , Dickinson Michael H.
Published: April 2021

By simultaneously measuring flight forces and stroke kinematics in several species of fruit flies in the genus Drosophila, we have investigated the relationship between wing motion and aerodynamic force production. We induced tethered flies to vary their production of total flight force by presenting them with a vertically oscillating visual background within a closed-loop flight arena. In response to the visual motion, flies modulated their flight force by changing the translational velocity of their wings, which they accomplished via changes in both stroke amplitude and stroke frequency. Changes in wing velocity could not, however, account for all the modulation in flight force, indicating that the mean force coefficient of the wings also increases with increasing force production. The mean force coefficients were always greater than those expected under steady-state conditions under a variety of assumptions, verifying that force production in Drosophila spp. must involve non-steady-state mechanisms. The subtle changes in kinematics and force production within individual flight sequences demonstrate that flies possess a flexible control system for flight maneuvers in which they can independently control the stroke amplitude, stroke frequency and force coefficient of their wings.

By studying four different-sized species, we examined the effects of absolute body size on the production and control of aerodynamic forces. With decreasing body size, the mean angular wing velocity that is required to support the body weight increases. This change is due almost entirely to an increase in stroke frequency, whereas mean stroke amplitude was similar in all four species. Despite the elevated stroke frequency and angular wing velocity, the translational velocity of the wings in small flies decreases with the reduction in absolute wing length. To compensate for their small size, D. nikananu must use higher mean force coefficients than their larger relatives.
High-Intensity Interval Training in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: GHRAM AMINE , JENAB YASER , SOORI RAHMAN , CHOOBINEH SIROOS , HOSSEINSABET ALI , NIYAZI SEPIDEH , SHIRANI SHAPOOR , SHAFIEE AKBAR , JALALI ARASH , LAVIE CARL J. , WISLØFF ULRIK
Published: April 2021

Purpose

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) appears to be safe and effective in cardiovascular diseases. However, there is a paucity of data on the effect of HIIT for patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). The present randomized controlled trial (RCT) therefore examined the efficiency and safety of HIIT in patients with acute PE.

Methods

In single-center parallel open-label RCT, 24 patients (5 women) discharged recently with a diagnosis of intermediate–high-risk acute PE were randomized (1:1) to supervised HIIT (n = 12) or control (n = 12) group. The primary outcomes were exercise capacity evaluated in terms of the estimated maximal oxygen uptake (eV˙O2max), lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1]), right ventricular (RV) function (RV/left ventricular diameter [LV] ratio), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Safety was the secondary outcome.

Results

Eight weeks of HIIT improved eV˙O2max (+65%, P < 0.001), FEV1 (%) (+17%, P = 0.031), and RV/LV ratio diameter (−27%, P = 0.005), as well as HRQoL. All patients in the HIIT group tolerated exercise training without serious adverse events. The control group did not improve (P > 0.05) eV˙O2max, RV/LV ratio diameter, or HRQoL; however, FEV1 (%) was slightly reduced (−6%, P = 0.030).

Conclusions

The present RCT of a tailored center-based HIIT intervention provides preliminary evidence that this intervention could improve exercise capacity, lung function, RV function, and HRQoL without serious adverse events, which could provide marked clinical benefits after PE. Further larger multicenter randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm these promising findings.
Musculoskeletal Responses to Exercise Plus Nutrition in Men with Prostate Cancer on Androgen Deprivation: A 12-Month RCT
Authors: DALLA VIA JACK , OWEN PATRICK J. , DALY ROBIN M. , MUNDELL NIAMH L. , LIVINGSTON PATRICIA M. , RANTALAINEN TIMO , FOULKES STEPHEN J. , MILLAR JEREMY L. , MURPHY DECLAN G. , FRASER STEVE F.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer has multiple adverse effects on musculoskeletal health. This 12-month randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the effects of multicomponent exercise training combined with whey protein, calcium and vitamin D supplementation on bone mineral density (BMD), structure and strength, body composition, muscle strength, and physical function in ADT-treated men.

Methods

Seventy ADT-treated men were randomized to exercise plus supplementation (Ex + Suppl; n = 34) or usual care (control; n = 36). Ex + Suppl involved thrice weekly progressive resistance training plus weight-bearing impact exercise with daily multinutrient supplementation. Primary outcomes were DXA hip and spine areal BMD. Secondary outcomes included the following: tibia and radius pQCT volumetric BMD, bone structure and strength, DXA body composition, pQCT muscle and fat cross-sectional area and muscle density, and muscle strength and physical function.

Results

Sixty men (86%) completed the study. Mean exercise and supplement adherence were 56% and 77%, respectively. There were no effects of the intervention on bone or body composition outcomes. Ex + Suppl improved leg muscle strength (net difference, (95% confidence interval, or CI), 14.5% (−0.2 to 29.2); P = 0.007) and dynamic mobility (four-square-step test time, −9.3% (−17.3 to −1.3), P = 0.014) relative to controls. Per-protocol analysis of adherent participants (≥66% exercise, ≥80% supplement) showed Ex + Suppl preserved femoral neck aBMD (1.9% (0.1 to 3.8), P = 0.026) and improved total body lean mass (1.0 kg (−0.23 to 2.22), P = 0.044) relative to controls.

Conclusions

Exercise training combined with multinutrient supplementation had a limited effect on ameliorating the adverse musculoskeletal consequences of ADT, likely related to the modest intervention adherence.
Investigation of the workplace boredom and job satisfaction to the ambulance per-sonnel of Crete, Greece
Authors: Intas George , Doriaki Georgia , Platis Charalampos , Lahana Eleni , Stergiannis Pantelis
Published: April 2021

AbstractBackground: Numerous of studies have been done to healthcare professionals about job satisfaction and workplace boredom, but very few to ambulance staff. The mental health and emotional well-being of ambulance staff appears to be affected by the emergency character of the work they provide.Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the degree of job satisfaction and workplace boredom to the ambulance staff of Crete.Material & Methods: It was a cross-sectional study. The ambulance personnel of Crete included in the study. The job satisfaction scale (23 items) and the Boredom Proneness Scale (28 items) were used for data collection. The statistical analysis was performed by the SPSS. V.22.0.Results: The studied sample consisted of 142 ambulance personnel. Most of them were male (81%), married (72.9%), and had attended secondary school (63.4%). The job satisfaction was 71.1±5.7 and was found to be negatively related to how often someone felt upset (r=-0.192, p=0.02), how often they felt frustrated (r=-0.196, p=0.019) and the frequency that one feels bored (r=-0.515, p<0.001). The score of the Boredom Propensity Scale was 113.4±18.4. Women had statistically significantly greater score in Boredom Propensity Scale than men (118.9±22.6 vs. 112.1±17.1, p=0.037). The overall workplace boredom syndrome was found to be positively related to the frequency the participants are engaged in risky behaviors (r=0.426, p<0.001), how often someone felt upset (r=0.393, p<0.001), how often they felt frustrated (r=0.333, p<0.0001) and the frequency that one feels bored (r=0.212, p=0.011).Conclusions: Job satisfaction of the sample is at a medium level, while the professional boredom at a fairly high level. The professional boredom is higher in women.
Adherence to physical distancing guidance in Ireland: a nationally representative analysis from the International COVID-19 Awareness and Responses Evaluation (iCARE) study
Authors: Durand Hannah , Bacon Simon L. , Byrne Molly , Farrell Karen , Kenny Eanna , Lavoie Kim L. , McGuire Brian E. , McSharry Jenny , Meade Oonagh , Mooney Robert , Noone Chris , O'Connor Laura L. , O'Flaherty Kate , Molloy Gerard J. ,   The iCARE Study Team
Published: April 2021

Background:Physical distancing measures (i.e., limiting physical contact with people outside of one’s household, maintaining a 2-metre distance between oneself and others, avoiding non-essential travel, etc.) are among the primary strategies used to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These measures will remain crucial during the rollout of newly developed vaccines to limit community-based spread of COVID-19 and prevent healthcare systems from becoming overburdened. Therefore, it is essential to understand the determinants of public adherence to physical distancing measures to inform current and future public health communications.  

Methods:As part of the International COVID-19 Awareness and Responses Evaluation (iCARE) study, a cross-sectional survey was conducted to evaluate behavioural responses to physical distancing measures in Ireland. A nationally representative sample of 1000 adults completed the survey over one week in June 2020 during Phase 2 restrictions. Participants completed measures assessing socio-demographic characteristics, theory-based psychological predictors, and physical distancing behaviours.

Results:Awareness of restrictions in place at the time of data collection was high overall, as was adherence to most physical distancing measures. Participants aged 25–34 years reported the poorest adherence to maintaining a 2-metre distance from others (71.2%, versus 79–90% for all other age groups), avoiding social gatherings (42.4%, versus 52–62%) and avoiding non-essential travel (63.9%, versus 69–79%). Females were slightly more adherent than were males to most measures. Adherence also varied according to participant beliefs and COVID-19 risk category.

Conclusions:These results indicate that adherence to physical distancing guidelines varies depending on the behaviour in question as well as socio-demographic and psychological factors. Although some non-adherence was evident for all physical distancing behaviours, adherence was generally high. Future interventions to improve adherence to physical distancing measures should target individual-level determinants of adherence in tandem with effective public health interventions.
The association between BMI self-selection, self-reported BMI and objectively measured BMI
Authors: Johnson Emily , Millar Seán R. , Shiely Frances
Published: April 2021

Background: It is challenging to measure BMI accurately in population studies because it is an expensive and time-consuming task. As a result, subjectively measured BMI, calculated from self-reported height and weight, which we know to be inaccurate, is often used. The purpose of this study is to determine whether using a different, subjective method of measuring BMI, BMI self-selection, would be more accurate. BMI self-selection is determined by asking participants to place themselves in one of the BMI categories, underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese.

Methods: A quantitative survey conducted in the outpatient departments of two hospitals in the South West of Ireland. Participants >18 years were included. Pregnant women were excluded. The final sample included 70 participants. Survey completion, including self-reported height and weight and BMI self-selection, preceded the objectively measured weight and height. Demographic and lifestyle factors were also recorded.

Results: 59% of the sample were overweight or obese –63% of females and 54% of males. The sensitivity for correct BMI self-selection for normal weight, overweight and obese categories was 90%, 36% and 33% respectively. The sensitivity for BMI categories calculated from self-reported height and weight was 83%, 57% and 59% respectively. In analysis, age, regular alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet and lower levels of physical activity were all associated with underestimation of BMI.

Conclusion: BMI self-selection is an accurate tool when used with normal weight individuals but shows poorer ability to demonstrate accurate measurement in overweight and obese BMI categories. It is inferior to the traditional self-reported BMI method for measuring BMI levels in the general population. Presently, we recommend continuing with self-reported BMI for BMI measurement in large population studies. However, further testing of BMI classification in larger studies is suggested and investigation into alternative objective methods of measurement is warranted.
Patient, caregiver, and health care provider perspectives on barriers and facilitators to heart failure care in Kerala, India: A qualitative study
Authors: Jose Prinu , Ravindranath Ranjana , Joseph Linju M. , Rhodes Elizabeth C. , Ganapathi Sanjay , Harikrishnan Sivadasanpillai , Jeemon Panniyammakal
Published: April 2021

Background: Deficits in quality of care for patients with heart failure (HF) contribute to high mortality in this population. This qualitative study aimed to understand the barriers and facilitators to high-quality HF care in Kerala, India.

Methods: Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of health care providers (n=13), patients and caregivers (n=14). Additionally, focus group discussions (n=3) were conducted with patients and their caregivers. All interviews and focus group discussions were transcribed verbatim. Textual data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: Patients’ motivation to change their lifestyle behaviours after HF diagnosis and active follow-up calls from health care providers to check on patients’ health status were important enablers of high-quality care. Health care providers’ advice on substance use often motivated patients to stop smoking and consuming alcohol. Although patients expected support from their family members, the level of caregiver support for patients varied, with some patients receiving strong support from caregivers and others receiving minimal support. Emotional stress and lack of structured care plans for patients hindered patients’ self-management of their condition. Further, high patient loads often limited the time health care providers had to provide advice on self-management options. Nevertheless, the availability of experienced nursing staff to support patients improved care within health care facilities. Finally, initiation of guideline-directed medical therapy was perceived as complex by health care providers due to multiple coexisting chronic conditions in HF patients.

Conclusions: Structured plans for self-management of HF and more time for patients and health care providers to interact during clinical visits may enable better clinical handover with patients and family members, and thereby improve adherence to self-care options. Quality improvement interventions should also address the stress and emotional concerns of HF patients.
Pedagogical Model of Formation of Engineering Competence of Students of Basic General Education
Authors: Faritov A.
Published: April 2021

The article presents a pedagogical model for the formation of engineering competence of students of basic General education. The developed model includes the goal, tasks, methodological approaches (system, competence-activity, personality-oriented), components, stages, principles (structure, complexity, openness of the system, consciousness and creative activity, professional orientation of training, polysubject interaction, creativity, trust and self-realization, individuality), pedagogical conditions of the organization and the expected result of the process. The work used mainly theoretical research methods, with the selection and analysis of current scientific data on the problem under study, synthesis, generalization of the information obtained and summing up the results of the study. The scientific novelty of the research consists in presenting a model of practice-oriented nature, which can be considered as a tool for achieving a high level of engineering competence of students of basic General education. The model reveals the pedagogical conditions of an effective process, determines the levels of formation of engineering competence of students. The proposed model serves as a theoretical and practical basis for the successful organization of students ' education in the study of engineering, extracurricular engineering activities, and project work in the field of science and technology.
Projeto DVS (drogas, violência e suicídio): prevenção, educação, gestão. Uma aposta sustentável.
Authors: Fernandes Gonçalves Filomena , González Olivares Ángel Luis , Sánchez-Verdejo Pérez Francisco Javier
Published: April 2021

A escola do século XXI, pela sua diversidade, tornou-se um espaço de encontro, de aprendizagem e de partilha de realidades muito diversas. Neste contexto, as escolas portuguesas têm vindo a desenvolver projetos que promovem a discussão, em contexto escolar, sobre as temáticas da Violência, das Drogas e do Suicídio. De facto, diante dos avanços sociais, a globalização não proporciona apenas uma melhoria das condições e qualidade de vida. Fica claro que, neste processo, a valorização do trabalho enquanto fator de promoção pessoal e profissional, acarreta uma maior dificuldade em conciliar a vida no trabalho e em família, de onde resultam, muitas vezes, lacunas na capacidade destas, quanto à prevenção e acompanhamento dos jovens. Obviamente, daqui se pode deduzir que os mais afetados serão as crianças e os adolescentes assistindo-se a um aumento da taxa de consumo de drogas, da violência e das tentativas de suicídio em Portugal. Este trabalho visa apresentar um breve retrato desses projetos, que envolvem os pais e encarregados de educação, técnicos de saúde e autoridades policiais e judiciais. Pretende-se, igualmente, com esta proposta de trabalho, analisar as medidas adotadas para dar resposta às demandas da atual sociedade portuguesa.
Identity, Ethnic Conflict and Communal Conflict in Sub- Saharan Africa
Authors: Kłosowicz Robert
Published: April 2021

Ethnic identity is one of the most significant types of identities. Meanwhile, some researchers have recently begun to criticise the term ‘identity’ as being too excessively associated with political ideologies, lacking operational power and being difficult to define precisely. Simultaneously, attention has been drawn to what can be referred to as ‘ethnic revival.’ Ethnic identity is created based on the opposition between what is ‘one’s own’ and what is ‘foreign.’. Even though the category of ‘the Other’ or the ‘foreign’ always appears in the context of identity, it has a special significance in the case of ethnic identity. By such means, the belonging to a particular ethnic group is emphasized, while simultaneously one is cut off from other groups. Conflicts between clans, tribes and ethnic groups have occurred throughout the ages and in all civilisations. There is no single opinion among researchers about how ethnic conflict should be defined. Increasingly, in recent literature of the subject, the distinction between ethnic conflicts and communal conflicts has come to be applied. The article aims to analyse the identity problems expressed in ethnic and communal conflicts in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is based on the critically reviewed literature of the subject, as well as the author’s conclusions from many years of research on the problem of state dysfunctionality, conducted in Sub-Saharan African countries.