bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Ag Nanoparticles Impregnated Over Chitosan-Agarose Modified Magnetic Nanocomposite as an Efficient Reusable Nano Catalyst on Bone Regeneration in a Rat Calvarial Defect Model and Screening System
Authors: Liu Bingchen , Luo Hongqu
Published: September 2023

The development of multifunctional biomaterials with precise design and synthesis is desired for various fields of medicine and biology. Nanomaterials and nanotechnology have a huge potential to be applied and develop multifunctional and sophisticated nano- and biomaterials. In this
study, we synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and applied them into Chitosan-Agarosemodified magnetic nanocomposite to develop an efficient reusable Nano catalyst. The fabricated AgNPs were characterized using Transmission electron microscopy and results showed that AgNPs were partially
spherical with uniform morphology and a size of 22±6 nm. Measuring the zeta potential showed that AgNPs possess a negative surface potential of around −27.7 mV which is desired for the stability of AgNPs. The AgNPs were incorporated into a Chitosan-Agarose modified magnetic nanocomposite
and TEM and EDX analysis confirmed homogenous dispersion of AgNPs into the nanocomposite. The cell culture (in vitro) studies conducted using the MTT assay kit confirmed the biocompatibility of the fabricated nanocomposite. The animal study (the implantation of the nanocomposite in
rat calvarial defect model) showed that the nanocomposite induced bone regeneration and filed the induced defect. These resultant findings suggested that the developed AgNPs-bearing nanocomposite can be applied as an efficient reusable Nano catalyst for bone regeneration.
Improvements in the physicochemical and electrical characteristics of BaO nanoparticles by Cu doping for electronic device applications
Authors: Nazir Shoaib , Zhang Jian-Min , Abbas Numan , Akhtar Majid Niaz , Saleem Shahroz , Qadir Kamran , Nkwazema Oscar Chijioke , Nauman Muhammad , Solre Gideon F. B.
Published: September 2023

This work demonstrated the effects of Cu2+ ion doping on the morphological, structural, vibrational, optical, dielectric, and electrical characteristics of barium oxide (BaO) nanoparticles. The XRD analysis revealed the high purity and crystallinity of the prepared Cu doped
BaO samples. The crystallite size of the Cu doped BaO nanoparticles was in the range of 6.51 nm to 8.49 nm and increased as the Cu2+ increased. The SEM micrographs revealed the irregular and spongy like morphology of the Cu doped BaO samples. Agglomeration and porosity were decreased
due to the addition of Cu2+ doping content. Raman spectra revealed the enhancement in the vibrational bands with the Cu2+ substitution. The FTIR study showed the band obtained between 680–880 cm−1 and were attributed to Ba–O bonding vibrations
which confirm the formation of BaO samples. FTIR and Raman spectra results are in the good agreement with XRD results. Optical characteristics were examined through UV-Vis spectra, results revealed that band gap was declined from 1.41 eV to 1.20 eV because the incorporation of Cu2+
ions in BaO lattice. The electrical properties revealed that conductivity increased from 2.39×10−7 S cm−1 to 4.44×10−4 S cm−1 while resistivity decreased from 4.18×106 Ω cm to 2.25×103
Ω cm with the increase of Cu2+ content up to 2%. The dielectric study revealed that dielectric constant value reduced with the increase of Cu2+ concentration. The obtained structural, morphological, vibrational, electrical, dielectric, and optical characteristics
of the BaO nanoparticles with Cu2+ doping content make them a promising material for the electronic device applications.
Study on the protective mechanism of neuropeptide S in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy
Authors: Wang Jun , Yan Qiong
Published: September 2023

Hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) is a severe complication of neonatal asphyxia that contributes significantly to neonatal mortality, cerebral palsy, and delays in intellectual and motor development. Neuropeptide S (NPS) plays a role in the regulation of various physiological processes.
This study aimed to determine the morphological localization of NPS in hypothalamic target neurons during HIBD, providing a basis for further investigation of HIBD. Seven-day-old SD neonatal male rats were assigned to a sham group and a model group to establish the HIBD model. Then, the rats
in the model group were further averagely divided into the NPS group and the normal saline group. Immunohistochemical staining of Fos immunoreactivity (Fos-IR) found that NPS administration resulted in a significant increase in the count of Fos-IR neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (122%),
paraventricular nucleus (108%), dorsal tuberomammillary nucleus (174% and 386%), ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (116%), arcuate nucleus (167%), perifornical nucleus (320%), ventral tuberomammillary nucleus (441%), and lateral hypothalamic area (278%) (P < 0.0001), compared to
the normal saline group. During HIBD, NPS can protect the above neurons and activate the above target neurons in the hypothalamus to participate in the sleep and wake cycle, mood, diet, circadian rhythm, temperature and neuroendocrine regulation.
Differential genomic effects of four nano-sized and one micro-sized CeO2particles on HepG2 cells
Authors: Thai Sheau-Fung , Jones Carlton P. , Robinette Brian L. , Ren Hongzu , Vallanat Beena , Fisher Anna , Kitchin Kirk T.
Published: September 2023

The objective of this research was to perform a genomics study of five cerium oxide particles, 4 nano and one micrometer-sized particles which have been studied previously by our group with respect to cytotoxicity, biochemistry and metabolomics. Human liver carcinoma HepG2 cells were exposed to between 0.3 to 300 ug/ml of CeO2particles for 72 hours and then total RNA was harvested. Fatty acid accumulation was observed with W4, X5, Z7 and less with Q but not Y6.The gene expression changes in the fatty acid metabolism genes correlated the fatty acid accumulation we detected in the prior metabolomics study for the CeO2particles named W4, Y6, Z7 and Q, but not for X5. In particular, the observed genomics effects on fatty acid uptake and fatty acid oxidation offer a possible explanation of why many CeO2particles increase cellular free fatty acid concentrations in HepG2 cells. The major genomic changes observed in this study were sirtuin, ubiquitination signaling pathways, NRF2-mediated stress response and mitochondrial dysfunction. The sirtuin pathway was affected by many CeO2particle treatments. Sirtuin signaling itself is sensitive to oxidative stress state of the cells and may be an important contributor in CeO2particle induced fatty acid accumulation. Ubiquitination pathway regulates many protein functions in the cells, including sirtuin signaling, NRF2 mediated stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction pathways. NRF2-mediated stress response and mitochondrial were reported to be altered in many nanoparticles treated cells. All these pathways may contribute to the fatty acid accumulation in the CeO2particle treated cells.
Association Between Child Sugary Drink Consumption and Serum Lipid Levels in Electronic Health Records
Authors: Iyer Ankitha , Hsu Fang-Chi , Bonnecaze Alex , Skelton Joseph A. , Palakshappa Deepak , Lewis Kristina H.
Published: September 2023

Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and fruit juice (FJ) consumption may promote lipid abnormalities in childhood. We examined the association between SSB/FJ intake and lipid levels using electronic health record data for 2816 adolescents. Multivariable logistic regression models treated clinical cutpoints for abnormal lipid levels (triglycerides [TG], high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein [LDL], and total cholesterol) as dependent variables. In models not adjusted for adiposity, elevated SSB and FJ consumption was associated with increased odds of having abnormally high TG (SSB: odds ratio [OR] = 1.28 (95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.07-1.52], P = .007); FJ: 1.35 ([1.09-1.69], P = .007)) and abnormally low HDL (SSB: 1.47 ([1.17-1.86], P = .001); FJ: 1.35 ([1.02-1.78], P = .03)). Adjusting for adiposity, a likely mediator of the relationship, attenuated these associations. These findings support the need for identifying unhealthy beverage consumption habits during childhood health care visits as a modifiable behavior associated with cardiometabolic risk.
Assessing the Two Sources of Construct-Relevant Psychometric Multidimensionality of the Nomophobia Questionnaire: The Integrated Framework of Bifactor Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Valenti Giusy D. , Bottaro Rossella , Faraci Palmira
Published: September 2023

The current study aimed at investigating the two sources of construct-relevant psychometric multidimensionality of the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q), applying the newly developed bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling (B-ESEM) approach. We first contrasted several CFA and ESEM models to test the psychometric multidimensionality due to the fallibility of indicators. Then, we compared the first-order structures with those specifying both global and specific factors to test the coexistence of hierarchically ordered factors. Results from 469 participants to the 20-item questionnaire showed the superiority of a B-ESEM representation with a well-defined G-factor and four weaker S-factors. On a methodological level, our findings provide additional support for the utility of using B-ESEM’s integrative perspective to better capture the complexity of multidimensional constructs.
Are Pedestrian Crashes Becoming More Severe? A Breakdown of Pedestrian Crashes in Urban Tennessee
Authors: Parajuli Saurav , Cherry Christopher R. , Zavisca Ellen , Rogers William
Published: September 2023

Similar to the nationwide trend of declining pedestrian safety, pedestrian fatalities in Tennessee increased by 117 % between 2009 and 2019. During the same time, pedestrians involved in traffic crashes have only increased by 26 %, suggesting that the reason for the increased number of fatalities is that pedestrian crashes are becoming more severe. The media, and safety advocates speculate about the different scenarios that could be responsible for the decrease in pedestrian safety. Past studies have failed to integrate pedestrian involvement into their studies and confirm whether pedestrian crashes are becoming more severe. Our study collected all reported pedestrian crashes and their outcomes from crash data kept by the Tennessee police, thus providing fatality and involvement numbers. Excluding crashes on controlled access roads, we measured the pedestrian fatality rate (PFR) for essential variables for each year from 2009 to 2019. An upward PFR graph shows that pedestrian crashes are becoming more severe compared with the past. To substantiate our claims with adequate statistical significance, we employed separate Poisson regression models for the pedestrian fatality count and PFR associated with each attribute of pedestrian crashes. The results show that an increase in severity is linked with multilane urban arterials with speeds above 35 mph at midblock locations. The study results also confirm that cars are still the cause of the high fatality rate in Tennessee rather than sport utility vehicles or other large vehicles. We recommend that cities reduce design speeds to 35 mph, increase safe pedestrian crossing opportunities, and install more pedestrian-scale lighting infrastructure on urban arterials.
Outcomes of Surgically Treated Purely Ligamentous Stage II Lisfranc Injuries
Authors: Urdahl Torben H. , Dock Carissa C. , Stone McGaver Rebecca , Seiffert Kayla J. , Coetzee J. Chris
Published: September 2023

Background:

Low-energy stage II Lisfranc injuries are rare, and treatment can be operative or nonoperative based on a surgeon’s assessment of midfoot stability. No previously published patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) data for Lisfranc injuries isolates purely ligamentous stage II injuries. The purpose of this study was to analyze PROMs for patients who underwent operative management of stage II Lisfranc injuries.

Methods:

Thirty-nine patients (39 feet) with confirmed Nunley-Vertullo stage II Lisfranc injuries between May 2012 and February 2022 were identified through a retrospective chart review. PROMs that were analyzed were the visual analog scale (VAS) pain scale, Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), and patient satisfaction.

Results:

Thirty-two open reduction internal fixations (ORIFs) and 7 fusions were performed. The mean latest follow-up was 44.6 (range, 12-92) months. There were 2 complications (5%, 2/39) that required a revision procedure. Twenty-six patients (67%, 26/39) underwent secondary surgery to remove retained hardware. The mean time to hardware removal was 3.97 (range, 2.70-7.47) months. The overall mean patient satisfaction score with overall medical care including clinical visits and interactions with medical staff personnel was 93.6/100. All PROMs (VAS, VR-12, FAAM) demonstrated statistically significant improvement ( P < .05) from preoperative (injury) values to latest follow-up postinjury values.

Conclusion:

Patients who were treated surgically with stage II purely ligamentous Lisfranc injuries via the methods used were found to mostly undergo hardware removal and have high levels of overall satisfaction with their process of medical care.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Enhanced electromagnetic shielding of lightweight copper-coated nonwoven laminate with carbon filament reinforcement
Authors: Hu Shi , Wang Dan , Venkataraman Mohanapriya , Křemenáková Dana , Militký Jiří , Yang Kai , Wang Yuanfeng , Palanisamy Sundaramoorthy
Published: September 2023

Textile-based electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials with good flexibility and high EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) are highly desirable. Still, the poor mechanical properties of textile-based EMI shielding materials limit their application. The carbon filaments (CF) combine superior mechanical properties and conductivity. Therefore, we demonstrate the CF-reinforced material, which was laminated with two types of copper-coated nonwoven polyester (CuPET10 and CuPET20) for EMI shielding. Compared to the traditional lamination method, this process was more convenient by ironing with adhesive lining. The developed laminate (CuPET/CF) performs superior EMI shielding property with an average SE value of 88.6 dB in the frequency range of 30 MHz to 3 GHz. The mechanical properties were improved from 12.7 to 39.9 MPa and from 13.46 MPa to 35.78 MPa for CuPET10/CF and CuPET20/CF, respectively. The newly developed material also demonstrated exceptional lightweight, flexibility, and thermal resistance. The laminated CuPET/CF material provides enhanced mechanical properties and easy lamination capability, allowing it to shield surfaces of electromagnetic radiation-sensitive equipment while providing a certain degree of protection and extremely high EMI shielding efficiency.
Behaviour change, the itchy spot of healthcare quality improvement: How can psychology theory and skills help to scratch the itch?
Authors: Hilton Charlotte Emma
Published: September 2023

Despite the clear utility and transferability, National Health Service (NHS) quality improvement initiatives have yet to benefit fully from what is already known within health psychology. Thus far, evidence from established, seminal behaviour change theory and practice have been ignored in favour of newly developed models and frameworks. Further, whilst there is a growing interest in what is commonly referred to as ‘human factors’ of change and improvement, there is scant transferability of known psychologically informed implementation skills into routine NHS Improvement practice. The science and practice of healthcare improvement is growing, and the behaviour change aspect is critical to sustainable outcomes. Therefore, this paper offers practical guidance on how seminal psychological behaviour change theory and motivational interviewing (a person-centred skills-based approach specifically developed to support people through change) can be combined to better address individual and organisational change within a healthcare improvement context.
Testing and Not Testing for Coronavirus on Twitter: Surfacing Testing Situations Across Scales With Interpretative Methods
Authors: Marres Noortje , Colombo Gabriele , Bounegru Liliana , Gray Jonathan W. Y. , Gerlitz Carolin , Tripp James
Published: September 2023

How was testing—and not testing—for coronavirus articulated as a testing situation on social media in the Spring of 2020? Our study examines everyday situations of Covid-19 testing by analyzing a large corpus of Twitter data collected during the first 2 months of the pandemic. Adopting a sociological definition of testing situations, as moments in which it is no longer possible to go on in the usual way, we show how social media analysis can be used to surface a range of such situations across scales, from the individual to the societal. Practicing a form of large-scale data exploration we call “interpretative querying” within the framework of situational analysis, we delineated two types of coronavirus testing situations: those involving locations of testing and those involving relations. Using lexicon analysis and composite image analysis, we then determined what composes the two types of testing situations on Twitter during the relevant period. Our analysis shows that contrary to the focus on individual responsibility in UK government discourse on Covid-19 testing, English-language Twitter reporting on coronavirus testing at the time thematized collective relations. By a variety of means, including in-memoriam portraits and infographics, this discourse rendered explicit challenges to societal relations and arrangements arising from situations of testing and not testing for Covid-19 and highlighted the multifaceted ways in which situations of corona testing amplified asymmetrical distributions of harms and benefits between different social groupings, and between citizens and state, during the first months of the pandemic.
John Kirklin's Impact on the Origins of Open Heart Surgery and the Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society
Authors: Kirklin James K.
Published: September 2023

John Kirklin stands out as one of the surgeons most identifiably responsible for bringing the field of open heart surgery to clinical reality and initiating scientific pursuits in the Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society. His accomplishments are perhaps best viewed in the context of other major contributions made by researchers and fellow surgeons, which collectively positioned Kirklin and other cardiac surgery pioneers to usher in the dawn of open heart surgery and later the Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society.
The Development of Transfusion-Related Acute Lung Injury for the Second Time: A New Awareness for Daratumumab?
Authors: Turgutkaya Atakan , Bolaman Ali Zahit , Yavaşoğlu İrfan
Published: September 2023

Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is an undesired and potentially fatal complication of blood transfusion. Besides human neutrophil and leukocyte antigens of the donor blood; especially for red blood cell transfusions, nonantibody-mediated mechanisms seem responsible. Among these patients, pulmonary neutrophils have increased sensitivity to initiate TRALI. It is a very rare event for a patient to develop a second reaction. Comorbid conditions such as kidney failure and cardiovascular diseases may pose a risk. Daratumumab, an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, seems unrelated because it only causes indirect Coombs positivity without triggering transfusion complications. However, its role in recipient–donor interactions causing TRALI is less clear. Here, we report a relapsed multiple myeloma-diagnosed patient who developed TRALI under daratumumab treatment.
A Longitudinal Seroconversion Panel Shows Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Levels up to 6.5 Months After Vaccination with mRNA-1273 (Moderna)
Authors: Belda Francisco , Mora Oscar , Christie Rebecca , Crowley Michael
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Vaccines have emerged as a crucial tool in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic particularly those based on SARS-CoV-2 S-protein mRNA. A crucial aspect of vaccine efficacy is the duration of antibody responses. In this study, a seroconversion panel was created to assess antibody responses to the mRNA-1273 vaccine over time (6.5 months).

METHODS

Blood samples collected from 15 healthy adult participants prior to and up to 6.5 months after vaccination with the mRNA-1273 vaccine (Moderna). Serum from these blood samples were analyzed for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody activity by chemiluminescent immunoassay.

RESULTS

The immunoassay results showed that one participant was positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies prior to vaccination indicating a prior infection. All participants showed a positive antibody response after the first vaccination. Highest antibody responses were seen after the second dose (41-45 days from the first dose). Subsequent samples collected at 69-75 days, 130-135 days, and 221-229 days after the first vaccination showed positive responses but a biphasic decline in the levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.

CONCLUSIONS

Declining antibody levels in these participants support the use of booster vaccination to increase antibody levels 4-6 months after the initial vaccine series and continued monitoring to assess the durability of COVID-19 vaccine responses. These results are in agreement with other studies showing antibody persistence but declining the antibody levels in the months after immunization with mRNA-based vaccines. The seroconversion panels described here could be useful in the development of antibody assays and in the assessment of the duration of antibody responses to vaccine boosters compared to the initial vaccine series. This panel could also be used to assess antibody activity against emerging viral variants (eg B.1.1.529 [Omicron] and its subvariants) compared to earlier variants.
Loss of function of ENT3 drives histiocytosis and inflammation through TLR-MAPK signaling
Authors: Shiloh Ruth , Lubin Ruth , David Odeya , Geron Ifat , Okon Elimelech , Hazan Idit , Zaliova Marketa , Amarilyo Gil , Birger Yehudit , Borovitz Yael , Brik Dafna , Broides Arnon , Cohen-Kedar Sarit , Harel Liora , Kristal Eyal , Kozlova Daria , Ling Galina , Shapira Rootman Mika , Shefer Averbuch Noa , Spielman Shiri , Trka Jan , Izraeli Shai , Yona Simon , Elitzur Sarah
Published: September 2023

Histiocytoses are inflammatory myeloid neoplasms often driven by somatic activating mutations in mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade genes. H syndrome is an inflammatory genetic disorder caused by germ line loss-of-function mutations in SLC29A3, encoding the lysosomal equilibrative nucleoside transporter 3 (ENT3). Patients with H syndrome are predisposed to develop histiocytosis, yet the mechanism is unclear. Here, through phenotypic, molecular, and functional analysis of primary cells from a cohort of patients with H syndrome, we reveal the molecular pathway leading to histiocytosis and inflammation in this genetic disorder. We show that loss of function of ENT3 activates nucleoside-sensing toll-like receptors (TLR) and downstream MAPK signaling, inducing cytokine secretion and inflammation. Importantly, MEK inhibitor therapy led to resolution of histiocytosis and inflammation in a patient with H syndrome. These results demonstrate a yet-unrecognized link between a defect in a lysosomal transporter and pathological activation of MAPK signaling, establishing a novel pathway leading to histiocytosis and inflammation.
Complementary HLH susceptibility factors converge on CD8 T-cell hyperactivation
Authors: Landy Emily , Varghese Jemy , Dang Vinh , Szymczak-Workman Andrea , Kane Lawrence P. , Canna Scott W.
Published: September 2023

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) are life-threatening hyperinflammatory syndromes. Familial HLH is caused by genetic impairment of granule-mediated cytotoxicity (eg, perforin deficiency). MAS is linked to excess activity of the inflammasome-activated cytokine interleukin-18 (IL-18). Though individually tolerated, mice with dual susceptibility (Prf1⁻/⁻Il18tg; DS) succumb to spontaneous, lethal hyperinflammation. We hypothesized that understanding how these susceptibility factors synergize would uncover key pathomechanisms in the activation, function, and persistence of hyperactivated CD8 T cells. In IL-18 transgenic (Il18tg) mice, IL-18 effects on CD8 T cells drove MAS after a viral (lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus), but not innate (toll like receptor 9), trigger. In vitro, CD8 T cells also required T-cell receptor (TCR) stimulation to fully respond to IL-18. IL-18 induced but perforin deficiency impaired immunoregulatory restimulation-induced cell death (RICD). Paralleling hyperinflammation, DS mice displayed massive postthymic oligoclonal CD8 T-cell hyperactivation in their spleens, livers, and bone marrow as early as 3 weeks. These cells increased proliferation and interferon gamma production, which contrasted with increased expression of receptors and transcription factors associated with exhaustion. Broad-spectrum antibiotics and antiretrovirals failed to ameliorate the disease. Attempting to genetically “fix” TCR antigen-specificity instead demonstrated the persistence of spontaneous HLH and hyperactivation, chiefly on T cells that had evaded TCR fixation. Thus, drivers of HLH may preferentially act on CD8 T cells: IL-18 amplifies activation and demand for RICD, whereas perforin supplies critical immunoregulation. Together, these factors promote a terminal CD8 T-cell activation state, combining features of exhaustion and effector function. Therefore, susceptibility to hyperinflammation may converge on a unique, unrelenting, and antigen-dependent state of CD8 T-cell hyperactivation.
Designing and development of multi-epitope chimeric vaccine against Helicobacter pylori by exploring its entire immunogenic epitopes: an immunoinformatic approach
Authors: Keshri Anand K. , Kaur Rimanpreet , Rawat Suraj S. , Arora Naina , Pandey Rajan K. , Kumbhar Bajarang V. , Mishra Amit , Tripathi Shweta , Prasad Amit
Published: September 2023

Background

Helicobacter pylori is a prominent causative agent of gastric ulceration, gastric adenocarcinoma and gastric lymphoma and have been categorised as a group 1 carcinogen by WHO. The treatment of H. pylori with proton pump inhibitors and antibiotics is effective but also leads to increased antibiotic resistance, patient dissatisfaction, and chances of reinfection. Therefore, an effective vaccine remains the most suitable prophylactic option for mass administration against this infection.

Results

We modelled a multi-chimera subunit vaccine candidate against H. pylori by screening its secretory/outer membrane proteins. We identified B-cell, MHC-II and IFN-γ-inducing epitopes within these proteins. The population coverage, antigenicity, physiochemical properties and secondary structure were evaluated using different in-silico tools, which showed it can be a good and effective vaccine candidate. The 3-D construct was predicted, refined, validated and docked with TLRs. Finally, we performed the molecular docking/simulation and immune simulation studies to validate the stability of interaction and in-silico cloned the epitope sequences into a pET28b(+) plasmid vector.

Conclusion

The multiepitope-constructed vaccine contains T- cells, B-cells along with IFN-γ inducing epitopes that have the property to generate good cell-mediated immunity and humoral response. This vaccine can protect most of the world’s population. The docking study and immune simulation revealed a good binding with TLRs and cell-mediated and humoral immune responses, respectively. Overall, we attempted to design a multiepitope vaccine and expect this vaccine will show an encouraging result against H. pylori infection in in-vivo use.
Meta-analysis of transcriptome reveals key genes relating to oil quality in olive
Authors: Asadi AliAkbar , Shariati Vahid , Mousavi Soraya , Mariotti Roberto , Hosseini Mazinani Mehdi
Published: September 2023

Background

Olive oil contains monounsaturated oleic acid up to 83% and phenolic compounds, making it an excellent source of fat. Due to its economic importance, the quantity and quality of olive oil should be improved in parallel with international standards. In this study, we analyzed the raw RNA-seq data with a meta-analysis approach to identify important genes and their metabolic pathways involved in olive oil quality.

Results

A deep search of RNA-seq published data shed light on thirty-nine experiments associated with the olive transcriptome, four of these proved to be ideal for meta-analysis. Meta-analysis confirmed the genes identified in previous studies and released new genes, which were not identified before. According to the IDR index, the meta-analysis had good power to identify new differentially expressed genes. The key genes were investigated in the metabolic pathways and were grouped into four classes based on the biosynthetic cycle of fatty acids and factors that affect oil quality. Galactose metabolism, glycolysis pathway, pyruvate metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, glycerolipid metabolism, and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis were the main pathways in olive oil quality. In galactose metabolism, raffinose is a suitable source of carbon along with other available sources for carbon in fruit development. The results showed that the biosynthesis of acetyl-CoA in glycolysis and pyruvate metabolism is a stable pathway to begin the biosynthesis of fatty acids. Key genes in oleic acid production as an indicator of oil quality and critical genes that played an important role in production of triacylglycerols were identified in different developmental stages. In the minor compound, the terpenoid backbone biosynthesis was investigated and important enzymes were identified as an interconnected network that produces important precursors for the synthesis of a monoterpene, diterpene, triterpene, tetraterpene, and sesquiterpene biosynthesis.

Conclusions

The results of the current investigation can produce functional data related to the quality of olive oil and would be a useful step in reducing the time of cultivar screening by developing gene specific markers in olive breeding programs, releasing also new genes that could be applied in the genome editing approach.
Effects of the salinity-temperature interaction on seed germination and early seedling development: a comparative study of crop and weed species
Authors: Nikolić Nebojša , Ghirardelli Aurora , Schiavon Michela , Masin Roberta
Published: September 2023

Background

Weeds represent a great constraint for agricultural production due to their remarkable adaptability and their ability to compete with crops. Climate change exacerbates the abiotic stresses that plants encounter. Therefore, studying plant responses to adverse conditions is extremely important. Here, the response to saline stress at different temperatures of three weed species (Chenopodium album, Echinochloa crus-galli and Portulaca oleracea) and three crops (maize, soybean and rice) was investigated.

Results

The germination percentage of soybean notably decreased as salinity and low temperatures increased. In contrast, maize and rice consistently maintained a high germination percentage, particularly when subjected to low salinity levels. Regarding weed species, the germination percentage of C. album was not significantly affected by salinity, but it decreased in E. crus-galli and P. oleracea with increasing salinity. The mean germination time for all species increased with salinity, especially at lower temperatures. This effect was most pronounced for soybean and E. crus-galli. C. album exhibited significant reduction in stem growth with high salinity and high temperatures, while in E. crus-galli stem growth was less reduced under similar conditions.

Conclusion

This study showed that successful germination under saline stress did not ensure successful early development and emphasizes the species-specific nature of the temperature-salinity interaction, perhaps influenced by intraspecific variability. Increasing salinity levels negatively impacted germination and seedling growth in most species, yet higher temperatures partially alleviated these effects.
Translation and validation of the Chinese version of the maternal postpartum stress scale
Authors: Wang Yanchi , Gao Qian , Liu Jin , Zhang Feng , Xu Xujuan
Published: September 2023

Objective

To translate the Maternal Postpartum Stress Scale (MPSS) into Chinese and validate its psychometric properties in postpartum women.

Methods

A total of 406 postpartum women were recruited from six hospitals in Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China. Cronbach’s α co-efficient, split-half reliability, and test-retest reliability were used to evaluate the reliability of the translated scale. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to evaluate the structural validity of the scale. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 anxiety dimension, and Perceived Stress Scale were used as calibration scales to measure the correlation of MPSS. All data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 and Amos 24.0.

Results

The Cronbach’s α co-efficient of the Chinese version of MPSS and its three dimensions were 0.940 and 0.882–0.911, respectively. The split-half reliability was 0.825, and the test-retest reliability was 0.912. The scale’s content validity index was 0.926. Three common factors were extracted from the EFA. The CFA validated the explored 3-factor structure, and the indicators were fitted well (χ2/Df = 2.167, comparative fit index = 0.918, Tucker–Lewis index = 0.907, incremental fit index = 0.919, and root mean square error of approximation = 0.075).

Conclusion

The translated Chinese version of MPSS had suitable reliability and validity in assessing postpartum stress in Chinese women. The translated scale can also help with the early identification of postpartum stress and provide a scientific basis for the formulation of early personalized intervention measures. Overall, the scale has certain clinical value and practical significance for enhancing the physical and mental health of postpartum women. However, future studies including large, diverse populations are warranted.
Communication in the neonatal ICU for Spanish speaking parents: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Batton Emily , Hurst Samantha , Ramos Carlos , Catalan Leslie , Freeman Michele , Marc-Aurele Krishelle
Published: September 2023

Background

In the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), health outcome disparities exist between patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) and those proficient in English. Our objective was to investigate the communication experience of parents with LEP in the NICU to learn how to mitigate such health disparities.

Methods

A certified bilingual provider conducted seventeen interviews of parents who identified Spanish as their preferred language and whose newborn was admitted to the NICU for ≥ 1 week. Interviews were conducted August 2020 – December 2021. Conventional content analysis utilizing an inductive open coding process was performed.

Results

The experiences of Spanish speaking parents with LEP in the NICU can be characterized by 3 main themes: 1) Information accessibility 2) Perspectives about interpreters and 3) Emotional consequences.

Conclusions

Our findings can inform neonatal quality initiatives to facilitate timely and good communication for NICU families with LEP.
Secular trend of mortality and incidence of rheumatoid arthritis in global ,1990–2019: an age period cohort analysis and joinpoint analysis
Authors: Yu Fangyuan , Chen Hongwei , Li Qi , Tao Mengjun , Jin Ziyi , Geng Linyu , Sun Lingyun
Published: September 2023

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major public health problem. Unfortunately, there is a scarcity of comprehensive and up-to-date information regarding the burden of RA and its dynamic trends in subsequent years. To examine the changing trends in the global burden of RA and forecast for 2044, which will facilitate the development of strategies tailored to RA burden and provide reference for the development of effective treatment guidelines.

Methods

Following the general analytical strategy used the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019, which included 204 countries, the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized disability adjusted of life year (DALY) rate for RA were analyzed.

Results

The ASIR, ASMR and age-standardized DALY rate for RA in 2019 were 13.001/100,000 (95% UI, 11.833 ~ 14.274), 0.574/100,000 (95% UI, 0.356 ~ 0.793) and 39.565/100,000 (95% UI, 49.529 ~ 30.508), respectively. America had the highest ASIR [18.578(95% UI, 17.147 ~ 20.148)] and age-standardized DALY rate [53.676(95% UI, 40.106 ~ 67.968)] in 2019. Asia had the highest ASMR [0.681(95% UI, 0.802 ~ 0.480)] in 2019. From 1990 to 2019, a significant average annual percentage change (AAPC) in the ASIR was observed in both males [0.237% (95% CI, 0.216 ~ 0.259%)] and females [0.197% (95% CI, 0.141 ~ 0.254%)], AAPC in the ASMR was observed in both males [-0.398% (95% CI, -0.605~-0.191%)] and females [-0.295% (95% CI, -0.424~-0.65%)]. Age effects indicated that the relative risk (RR) of RA-associated incidence and mortality rates increased with age among males and females. The RR of RA increased over time and started to gradually increase from 1990. Cohort effects showed decreases in incidence, mortality and DALY rates in successive birth cohorts. The global incidence of RA would continue to increase in the future, while mortality would continue to decrease.

Conclusion

The increased risk of RA is dominantly influenced by age effects and period effects and the ethnic area. The results suggest that early identification and treatment of RA is important for reducing the ongoing burden with age, and targeted health education and specific intervention programs should be promoted to control middle-elderly population.
A systematic review and network meta-analysis of virtual reality, audiovisuals and music interventions for reducing dental anxiety related to tooth extraction
Authors: Hao Tiedan , Pang Jun , Liu Qingmei , Xin Pengfei
Published: September 2023

Background

Tooth extraction is a common procedure performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons or dentists, often resulting in dental fear and anxiety. The use of relaxing music, audiovisuals, and virtual reality (VR) technologies has been employed to reduce dental anxiety. This network meta-analysis (NMA) aimed to assess the comparative effectiveness of relaxing music, audiovisuals, and VR in reducing dental anxiety associated with tooth extraction.

Methods

Four electronic databases were searched up to March 8, 2023, to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating different multimedia interventions, including the application of using relaxing music, audiovisuals, and VR technologies for dental anxiety. Studies utilizing various anxiety scales for tooth extraction were considered eligible. The pooled standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of anxiety scale scores were analyzed using Bayesian NMA.

Results

A total of 11 RCTs were included in this NMA. The Bayesian NMA results demonstrated that relaxing music (SMD = -0.64, 95% CI: -1.04, -0.25) and VR (SMD = -0.54, 95% CI: -1.08, -0.02) were associated with a reduction in dental anxiety, while audiovisuals (SMD = -0.34, 95% CI: -0.97, 0.33) required further consideration. Ranking probabilities indicated that relaxing music might be the most acceptable method for individuals with dental anxiety. The frequentist NMA yielded consistent rankings in a sensitivity analysis.

Conclusions

Relaxing music shows the greatest potential for reducing dental anxiety related to tooth extraction when compared to other multimedia interventions.
FOXO3 and PTEN expression in the ovary of girls with extra-gonadal cancer with or without chemotherapy treatment prior to cryopreservation
Authors: Albamonte María Itatí , Calabró Lara Y. , Albamonte Mirta S. , Vitullo Alfredo D.
Published: September 2023

Background

FOXO3/pFOXO3 and PTEN expression is known to regulate the dormancy/activation of ovarian primordial follicles. How chemotherapy could influence the expression of FOXO3 and PTEN in pre- and post-menarcheal girls with extra-gonadal cancer remains unexplored.

Methods

Ovarian samples were collected from 27 girls suffering from extra-gonadal cancer. Of these, 8 patients had received chemotherapy before the time of sample collection. Ovarian tissue collected at the time of surgery was fixed in 10% formaldehyde for FOXO3/pFOXO3 and PTEN immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence, or stored at -80 °C for Western blot, or preserved in RNA later for RT-PCR.

Results

PTEN was detected in a limited number of primordial follicle-enclosed oocytes in approximately fifty percent of the patients, regardless of whether they had received anti-cancer treatment or not. However, there was a significant decrease in PTEN detection in patients who underwent chemotherapy treatment prior to the retrieval of the sample. Both primordial follicle-enclosed oocytes that expressed FOXO3 and those that did not were identified in patients who were treated with chemotherapy and those who were not. FOXO3-positive primordial follicles exhibited either nuclear FOXO3 localization or cytoplasmic pFOXO3 localization. Furthermore, transitional primordial follicles that expressed nuclear FOXO3 and cytoplasmic pFOXO3 were also observed. Primary follicle-enclosed oocytes displayed cytoplasmic pFOXO3 localization, whereas in more advanced stages of folliculogenesis, the expression moved to the somatic stratum. No significant statistical differences were identified in the detection of FOXO3 and pFOXO3 in patients who had or had not received chemotherapy prior to sample collection.

Conclusion

Primordial follicles expressing and not expressing FOXO3 were equally present in both the ovaries of patients who underwent chemotherapy and those who did not. The expression of FOXO3 remained unaltered in response to chemotherapy treatment. Notably, the detection of PTEN was significantly reduced in the treated patients, thereby warranting in-depth investigation, given the limited sample size examined in the present study.
Application of project-based service-learning courses in medical education: trials of curriculum designs during the pandemic
Authors: Liao Shih-Chieh , Lee Miau-Rong , Chen Yung-Lin , Chen Hank Szuhan
Published: September 2023

Background

Due to COVID-19, face-to-face service activities in service-learning courses have become unfeasible. To address this challenge, this study aims to integrate project-based learning into medical education’s service-learning curriculum. This study also seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of this instructional approach and identify factors that influence its success.

Methods

A total of 135 first-year medical students enrolled in a mandatory 1-credit service-learning course were recruited. The course involved various service activities aligned with the needs of the local community. The students were organized into 12 groups, each working on different service-learning projects, such as raising health awareness or educating the public about specific diseases. Following the completion of the course, a questionnaire was distributed among the students to gather feedback on the course, and 122 (valid responses were collected, representing a response rate of 90.3%).

Results

The results indicated that the project-based service-learning course significantly improved students’ “interpersonal communication skills,“ their ability to “learn and grow from work,“ and their sense of “professionalism” (all p ≤ 0.037). Among the various aspects of service learning, the highest agreement was observed for “executing the project,“ followed by “group discussions and project formulation,“ “overall course review,“ “review of project outcomes,“ “outcome presentations,“ “teaching proposal writing and project brainstorming,“ “sharing of service-learning experiences by teachers,“ and “sharing of service-learning experiences by teaching assistants.“ Students also found certain factors to be beneficial in enhancing the learning effectiveness of service-learning courses, including “prize money for service-learning outcomes,“ “funding for service-learning activities,“ and “consultations from medical personnel” (all p ≤ 0.01). However, “course credit” and “photography software” did not show significant effects (both p > 0.05). The most preferred resources or activities for future service-learning courses were “course credit” and “face-to-face service-learning activities.“

Conclusions

The project-based learning method improved the learning effectiveness in service-learning courses. Students perceived that the number of course credits reflects the course value and plays a pivotal role in enhancing the learning effectiveness in service-learning courses. During the epidemic, students still expect to have face-to-face service activities in service-learning courses. Therefore, without the impact of the epidemic, service learning courses should return to face-to-face service activities.