bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the anti-resistance potential of public health vaporizer formulations and insecticide mixtures with pyrethroids using transgenic Drosophila lines
Authors: Luong Hang Ngoc Bao , Damijonaitis Arunas , Nauen Ralf , Vontas John , Horstmann Sebastian
Published: September 2021

Background

Insecticide resistance—and especially pyrethroid resistance—is a major challenge for vector control in public health. The use of insecticide mixtures utilizing alternative modes of action, as well as new formulations facilitating their uptake, is likely to break resistance and slow the development of resistance.

Methods

We used genetically defined highly resistant lines of Drosophila melanogaster with distinct target-site mutations and detoxification enzymes to test the efficacy and anti-resistance potential of novel mixture formulations (i.e. Fludora® Fusion consisting of deltamethrin and clothianidin), as well as emulsifiable concentrate transfluthrin, compared to alternative, currently used pyrethroid insecticide formulations for vector control.

Results

The commercial mixture Fludora® Fusion, consisting of both a pyrethroid (deltamethrin) and a neonicotinoid (clothianidin), performed better than either of the single active ingredients against resistant transgenic flies. Transfluthrin, a highly volatile active ingredient with a different molecular structure and primary exposure route (respiration), was also efficient and less affected by the combination of metabolic and target-site resistance. Both formulations substantially reduced insecticide resistance across different pyrethroid-resistant Drosophila transgenic strains.

Conclusions

The use of mixtures containing two unrelated modes of action as well as a formulation based on transfluthrin showed increased efficacy and resistance-breaking potential against genetically defined highly resistant Drosophila flies. The experimental model remains to be validated with mosquito populations in the field. The possible introduction of new transfluthrin-based products and mixtures for indoor residual spraying, in line with other combination and mixture vector control products recently evaluated for use in public health, will provide solutions for better insecticide resistance management.

Graphical abstract
Population genetic structure of the malaria vector Anopheles minimus in Thailand based on mitochondrial DNA markers
Authors: Bunmee Kamonchanok , Thaenkham Urusa , Saralamba Naowarat , Ponlawat Alongkot , Zhong Daibin , Cui Liwang , Sattabongkot Jetsumon , Sriwichai Patchara
Published: September 2021

Background

The malaria vector Anopheles minimus has been influenced by external stresses affecting the survival rate and vectorial capacity of the population. Since An. minimus habitats have continuously undergone ecological changes, this study aimed to determine the population genetic structure and the potential gene flow among the An. minimus populations in Thailand.

Methods

Anopheles minimus was collected from five malaria transmission areas in Thailand using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) light traps. Seventy-nine females from those populations were used as representative samples. The partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (COII) and cytochrome b (Cytb) gene sequences were amplified and analyzed to identify species and determine the current population genetic structure. For the past population, we determined the population genetic structure from the 60 deposited COII sequences in GenBank of An. minimus collected from Thailand 20 years ago.

Results

The current populations of An. minimus were genetically divided into two lineages, A and B. Lineage A has high haplotype diversity under gene flow similar to the population in the past. Neutrality tests suggested population expansion of An. minimus, with the detection of abundant rare mutations in all populations, which tend to arise from negative selection.

Conclusions

This study revealed that the population genetic structure of An. minimus lineage A was similar between the past and present populations, indicating high adaptability of the species. There was substantial gene flow between the eastern and western An. minimus populations without detection of significant gene flow barriers.

Graphical abstract
Granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells inhibit T follicular helper cells during experimental Schistosoma japonicum infection
Authors: Zhang Yumei , Wu Yulong , Liu Hua , Gong Wenci , Hu Yuan , Shen Yujuan , Cao Jianping
Published: September 2021

Background

CD4+T helper (Th) cells play critical roles in both host humoral and cellular immunity against parasitic infection and in the immunopathology of schistosomiasis. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are a specialized subset of Th cells involved in immunity against infectious diseases. However, the role of Tfh cells in schistosome infection is not fully understood. In this study, the dynamics and roles of Tfh cell regulation were examined. We demonstrated that granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (G-MDSC) can suppress the proliferation of Tfh cells.

Methods

The levels of Tfh cells and two other Th cells (Th1, Th2) were quantitated at differentSchistosoma japonicuminfection times (0,3, 5, 8, 13 weeks) using flow cytometry. The proliferation of Tfh cells stimulated by soluble egg antigen (SEA) and soluble worm antigen (SWA) in vivo and in vitro were analyzed. Tfh cells were co-cultured with MDSC to detect the proliferation of Tfh cells labelled by 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein diacetateN-succinimidyl ester. We dynamically monitored the expression of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) on the surface of Tfh cells and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) on the surface of MDSC at different infection times (0, 3, 5, 8 weeks). Naïve CD4+T cells (in Tfh cell differentiation) were co-cultured with G-MDSC or monocytic MDSC in the presence, or in the absence, of PD-L1 blocking antibody.

Results

The proportion of Tfh cells among CD4+T cells increased gradually with time ofS. japonicuminfection, reaching a peak at 8 weeks, after which it decreased gradually. Both SEA and SWA caused an increase in Tfh cells in vitro and in vivo. It was found that MDSC can suppress the proliferation of Tfh cells. The expression of PD-1 on Tfh cells and PD-L1 from MDSC cells increased with prolongation of the infection cycle. G-MDSC might regulate Tfh cells through the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway.

Conclusions

The reported study not only reveals the dynamics of Tfh cell regulation duringS. japonicuminfection,but also provides evidence that G-MDSC may regulate Tfh cells by PD-1/PD-L1. This study provides strong evidence for the important role of Tfh cells in the immune response toS. japonicuminfection.

Graphical abstract
Identification and phylogenetic analysis of voltage-gated sodium channel haplotypes in the malaria vector Anopheles sinensis using a high-throughput amplicon sequencing approach
Authors: Ni Ruoyao , Liu Nian , Li Mei , Qian Weiping , Qiu Xinghui
Published: September 2021

Background

Anopheles sinensis is a dominant vector for malaria transmission in Asian countries. Voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) mutation-mediated knock-down resistance (kdr) has developed in many A. sinensis populations because of intensive and long-term use of pyrethroids. Our previous study showed that multiple mutations at position 1014 of the VGSC were heterogeneously distributed in A. sinensis populations across Sichuan, China.

Methods

To understand resistance genotypes at the haplotype level and reconstruct the phylogenetic relationship of VGSC haplotypes, a cost-effective next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based amplicon sequencing approach was established to clarify haplotypes containing codon 1014 of the VGSC gene from a total of 446 adults collected in 12 locations of Sichuan, China.

Results

Nineteen (19) haplotypes were identified, including 11 wild 1014L, 6 resistance 1014F, and 2 resistance 1014C haplotypes. We found that resistance haplotypes of A. sinensis VGSC were widely distributed at frequencies ranging from 3.67 to 92.61%. The frequencies of the 1014C haplotype in the southeast of Sichuan (Luzhou, Guangan, and Suining) were relatively higher than those in other sampling locations. Phylogenetic analyses support that kdr-type mutation at position 1014 is not singly originated and resistance 1014C haplotypes evolve from TTT-encoding 1014F.

Conclusions

A cost-effective next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based amplicon sequencing approach has been established in this study. The data revealed the patchy distribution of VGSC resistance haplotypes with overall high frequencies in Sichuan, China. Phylogenetic analyses support multiple origins and sequential evolution (1014L → 1014F → 1014C) for kdr-type mutations in A. sinensis.

Graphical abstract
Satellite-based modelling of potential tsetse (Glossina pallidipes) breeding and foraging sites using teneral and non-teneral fly occurrence data
Authors: Gachoki Stella , Groen Thomas , Vrieling Anton , Okal Michael , Skidmore Andrew , Masiga Daniel
Published: September 2021

Background

African trypanosomiasis, which is mainly transmitted by tsetse flies (Glossinaspp.), is a threat to public health and a significant hindrance to animal production. Tools that can reduce tsetse densities and interrupt disease transmission exist, but their large-scale deployment is limited by high implementation costs. This is in part limited by the absence of knowledge of breeding sites and dispersal data, and tools that can predict these in the absence of ground-truthing.

Methods

In Kenya, tsetse collections were carried out in 261 randomized points within Shimba Hills National Reserve (SHNR) and villages up to 5 km from the reserve boundary between 2017 and 2019. Considering their limited dispersal rate, we used in situ observations of newly emerged flies that had not had a blood meal (teneral) as a proxy for active breeding locations. We fitted commonly used species distribution models linking teneral and non-teneral tsetse presence with satellite-derived vegetation cover type fractions, greenness, temperature, and soil texture and moisture indices separately for the wet and dry season. Model performance was assessed with area under curve (AUC) statistics, while the maximum sum of sensitivity and specificity was used to classify suitable breeding or foraging sites.

Results

Glossina pallidipesflies were caught in 47% of the 261 traps, with teneral flies accounting for 37% of these traps. Fitted models were more accurate for the teneral flies (AUC = 0.83) as compared to the non-teneral (AUC = 0.73). The probability of teneral fly occurrence increased with woodland fractions but decreased with cropland fractions. During the wet season, the likelihood of teneral flies occurring decreased as silt content increased. Adult tsetse flies were less likely to be trapped in areas with average land surface temperatures below 24 °C. The models predicted that 63% of the potential tsetse breeding area was within the SHNR, but also indicated potential breeding pockets outside the reserve.

Conclusion

Modelling tsetse occurrence data disaggregated by life stages with time series of satellite-derived variables enabled the spatial characterization of potential breeding and foraging sites forG. pallidipes. Our models provide insight into tsetse bionomics and aid in characterising tsetse infestations and thus prioritizing control areas.

Graphical abstract
Association of retroperitoneal fibrosis with malignancy and its outcomes
Authors: Lee Sang Jin , Eun Jung Su , Kim Min Jung , Song Yeong Wook , Kang Young Mo
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is characterized by a highly fibrotic retroperitoneal mass and encompasses the idiopathic form and secondary to malignancies. Because we have limited knowledge whether RPF is associated with malignancy, we aimed to investigate the relationship between RPF and malignancy and to compare the characteristics and prognosis of cancers among patients with RPF.

Methods

Medical records of 111 patients diagnosed as having RPF were reviewed and 38 cases of cancer, confirmed by biopsy, were identified. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated for cancers and stratified according to cancer type and RPF-cancer diagnosis interval. Cancer characteristics and outcomes were compared between RPF-cancer diagnosis intervals.

Results

The average age at RPF diagnosis was 59.2 ± 15.0 years, and 69.4% of the patients were male. The cancer SIRs in patients with RPF relative to age- and sex-matched individuals in the general population was 2.2 (1.6–3.1). SIRs of renal pelvis cancer and multiple myeloma were significantly higher than in the general population. When stratified by RPF-cancer intervals, the SIR for cancer was 9.9 within 1 year of RPF diagnosis, while no significant increase in the SIR was found after 1 year from RPF diagnosis. Cancer stage was more advanced at the time of diagnosis in patients within a 1-year interval for RPF than those with cancer within a >5-year interval, with a correspondingly increased mortality in the former patients.

Conclusions

RPF was significantly associated with malignancy, particularly those diagnosed within 1 year of RPF diagnosis. Cancer stages at diagnosis were more advanced and the mortality rate was higher in patients within a 1-year interval between RPF and cancer diagnosis than in those with a >5-year interval between diagnoses.
Factors predicting readmission in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Nematshahi Mohammad , Soroosh Davood , Neamatshahi Mahboubeh , Attarian Fahimeh , Rahimi Faeze
Published: September 2021

Objective

COVID-19 has been introduced by the World Health Organization as a health emergency worldwide. Up to 9% of the patients with COVID-19 may be readmitted by 2 months after discharge. This study aimed to estimate the readmission rate and identify main risk factors for readmission in these patients. In this prospective study, 416 discharged COVID patients followed up with a minimum 1 month and the readmission rate was recorded. Evaluated characteristics included time of readmission, age and sex, main symptoms of disease, result of computed tomography scan, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test and treatment modalities.

Results

Regarding readmission, 51 patients of 416 discharged patients, was readmitted during the study period. The rate of readmission for 30 and 60 days after discharge was 7.6% and 8.1%, respectively. The median age of the readmitted patients was 67 years (IQR: 53–78). About 65% of readmitted patients had underlying disease. The most significant factor in readmission rate was related to the site of lung involvement (OR > 4). Age over 60 years, underlying disease especially diabetes (OR = 3.43), high creatinine level (≥ to 1.2 mg/dl) (OR = 2.15) were the most important predictors of readmission.
Socioeconomic inequalities in the prevalence and perceived dangerousness of SARS-CoV-2 infections in two early German hotspots: findings from a seroepidemiological study
Authors: Wachtler Benjamin , Müters Stephan , Michalski Niels , Koschollek Carmen , Albrecht Stefan , Haller Sebastian , Hamouda Osamah , Hövener Claudia , Hoebel Jens
Published: September 2021

Objective

Evidence on socioeconomic inequalities in infections with the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is still limited as most of the available studies are ecological in nature and individual-level data is sparse. We therefore analysed individual-level data on socioeconomic differences in the prevalence and perceived dangerousness of SARS-CoV-2 infections in local populations. Data were obtained from a population-based seroepidemiological study of adult individuals in two early German SARS-CoV-2 hotspots (n = 3903). Infection was determined by IgG antibody ELISA, RT-PCR testing and self-reports on prior positive PCR tests. The perceived dangerousness of an infection and socioeconomic position (SEP) were assessed by self-reports. Logistic and linear regression were applied to examine associations of multiple SEP measures with infection status and perceptions of dangerousness.

Results

We found no evidence of socioeconomic inequalities in SARS-CoV-2 infections by education, occupation, income and subjective social status. Participants with lower education and lower subjective social status perceived an infection as more dangerous than their better-off counterparts. In successfully contained local outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 in Germany, infections may have been equally distributed across the socioeconomic spectrum. But residents in disadvantaged socioeconomic groups might have experienced a higher level of mental distress due to the higher perceived dangerousness of an infection.
miRkit: R framework analyzing miRNA PCR array data
Authors: Tsagiopoulou Maria , Togkousidis Anastasis , Pechlivanis Nikolaos , Maniou Maria Christina , Batsali Aristea , Matheakakis Angelos , Pontikoglou Charalampos , Psomopoulos Fotis
Published: September 2021

Objective

The characterization of microRNAs (miRNA) in recent years is an important advance in the field of gene regulation. To this end, several approaches for miRNA expression analysis and various bioinformatics tools have been developed over the last few years. It is a common practice to analyze miRNA PCR Array data using the commercially available software, mostly due to its convenience and ease-of-use.

Results

In this work we present miRkit, an open source framework written in R, that allows for the comprehensive analysis of RT-PCR data, from the processing of raw data to a functional analysis of the produced results. The main goal of the proposed tool is to provide an assessment of the samples’ quality, perform data normalization by endogenous and exogenous miRNAs, and facilitate differential and functional enrichment analysis. The tool offers fast execution times with low memory usage, and is freely available under a ΜΙΤ license from https://bio.tools/mirkit. Overall, miRkit offers the full analysis from the raw RT-PCR data to functional analysis of targeted genes, and specifically designed to support the popular miScript miRNA PCR Array (Qiagen) technology.
Aerobic exercise training prevents impairment in renal parameters and in body composition of rats fed a high sucrose diet
Authors: de Souza Jaqueline A. , Pinto Angélica B. Gonçalves , de Oliveira Emerson C. , Coelho Daniel B. , Totou Nádia L. , de Lima Wanderson G. , Becker Lenice K.
Published: September 2021

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of swimming training (T) on the renal system and body composition parameters in young animals treated with a high sucrose diet (SUD) during 12 weeks.

Results

The SUD impaired the physical performance, increased the body adiposity index (BAI), Lee index (LI) and retroperitoneal adipose tissue (RAT) weight, plasma creatinine and number renal cells nuclei, decreased urinary volume and urinary creatinine excretion besides creatinine clearance. The T reversed the increased the BAI, LI, RAT weight, plasma and urinary creatinine, creatinine clearance and number renal cells nuclei in addition to promoting decrease in urinary protein excretion. This study found that eight weeks of swimming physical training protected renal function and restored normal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) values. Swimming training also contributed to prevention of the onset of a renal inflammatory process and caused a decrease in the risk of development of obesity promoted by SUD decreasing the body composition parameters (BAI, LI, and RAT weight).
App-based strength and balance self-test in older adults: an exploratory study from a user perspective
Authors: Arkkukangas Marina
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Falls are a common problem, especially in the older population. The number of older adults aged over 65 years is increasing globally, leading to a major challenge in providing effective fall prevention interventions to older adults requiring such interventions. This study aimed to explore the usability of an app-based strength and balance self-tests in a small sample of four older adults. This study is a side product of another project.

Results

The results from this study indicated that self-test of strength and balance by using a smartphone application is a challenge for older adults. Basic test measures, such as start and stop and counts of sit-to-stand, were difficult to self-administer. However, from a user perspective, the possibility of independently performing these measures was considered important and needed to be further developed and evaluated in future studies.
Combined effects of progesterone and SOCS3 DNA methylation on T2DM: a case–control study
Authors: Wang Lulu , Mao Zhenxing , Liu Xiaotian , Wei Dandan , Liu Pengling , Nie Luting , Fan Keliang , Kang Ning , Song Yu , Xu Qingqing , Wang Juan , Wang Mian , Liao Wei , Jing Tao , Li Wenjie , Wang Chongjian , Huo Wenqian
Published: September 2021

Background

This study aims to investigate the independent and combined effects of progesterone and suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-3 DNA methylation on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among men and postmenopausal women in rural China.

Methods

A case–control study with 914 participants (329 T2DM, 585 controls) was conducted. Serum progesterone was detected with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. DNA methylation of SOCS3 was determined by MethylTarget™. Linear regression was applied to evaluate the associations of progesterone and SOCS3 methylation with marks of glucose metabolism. Logistic regression was employed to investigate the independent and combined effects of progesterone and SOCS3 methylation with T2DM in men and postmenopausal women.

Results

After multiple adjustment, progesterone was positively associated with T2DM in both men (odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval (CI)): 2.77 (1.79, 4.29)) and postmenopausal women (OR (95% CI): 1.85 (1.26, 2.72)). Methylation level of Chr17:76,356,190 or Chr17:76,356,199 (SOCS3) was negatively associated with T2DM in both men (OR (95% CI): 0.58 (0.39, 0.86) or 0.27 (0.14, 0.51)) and postmenopausal women (OR (95% CI): 0.43 (0.29, 0.65) or 0.53 (0.28, 0.99)). Subjects with high progesterone and low Chr17:76,356,190 or Chr17:76,356,199 methylation were more susceptible to have a higher prevalence of T2DM (men: OR (95% CI): 5.20 (2.49, 10.85) or 5.62 (2.74, 11.54); postmenopausal women: OR (95% CI): 3.66 (1.85, 7.26) or 3.27 (1.66, 6.45)).

Conclusions

The independent and combined effects of progesterone and SOCS3 methylation on T2DM were found among men and postmenopausal women, suggesting that ensuring low levels of progesterone and high methylation of SOCS3 could reduce the prevalence of T2DM.

Trial registration The Chinese Clinical Trial registration: The Henan Rural Cohort Study, ChiCTR-OOC-15006699. Registered 06 July 2015, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=11375
Histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation profile undergoes two global shifts in undernourished children and suggests altered one-carbon metabolism
Authors: Kupkova Kristyna , Shetty Savera J. , Haque Rashidul , Petri William A. , Auble David T.
Published: September 2021

Background

Stunting is a condition in which a child does not reach their full growth potential due to chronic undernutrition. It arises during the first 2 years of a child’s life and is associated with developmental deficiencies and life-long health problems. Current interventions provide some benefit, but new approaches to prevention and treatment grounded in a molecular understanding of stunting are needed. Epigenetic analyses are critical as they can provide insight into how signals from a poor environment lead to changes in cell function.

Results

Here we profiled histone H3 acetylation on lysine 27 (H3K27ac) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 18-week-old (n = 14) and 1-year-old children (n = 22) living in an urban slum in Dhaka, Bangladesh. We show that 18-week-old children destined to become stunted have elevated levels of H3K27ac overall, functional analysis of which indicates activation of the immune system and stress response pathways as a primary response to a poor environment with high pathogen load. Conversely, overt stunting at 1-year-of age is associated with globally reduced H3K27ac that is indicative of metabolic rewiring and downregulation of the immune system and DNA repair pathways that are likely secondary responses to chronic exposure to a poor environment with limited nutrients. Among processes altered in 1-year-old children, we identified one-carbon metabolism, the significance of which is supported by integrative analysis with results from histone H3 trimethylation on lysine 4 (H3K4me3). Together, these results suggest altered one-carbon metabolism in this population of stunted children.

Conclusions

The epigenomes of stunted children undergo two global changes in H3K27ac within their first year of life, which are associated with probable initial hyperactive immune responses followed by reduced metabolic capacity. Limitation of one-carbon metabolites may play a key role in the development of stunting.

Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT01375647. Registered 17 June 2011, retrospectively registered,https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01375647.
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) with granulomatous interstitial lung disease (GLILD) and SARS COVID-19 infection: case report and review of literature
Authors: Pattanaik Debendra , Ritter Shaunah , Fahhoum Joseph
Published: September 2021

Background

We present a case of CVID complicated by granulomatous interstitial lung disease (GLILD). This patient clinical course was further complicated by COVID-19 infection. This is only the 2nd known case report of COVID 19 in CVID with GLILD. The clinical course and outcome of COVID 19 infection with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) and GLILD is not well known.

Case presentation

Our patient met the clinical features of CVID secondary to low IgG/IgA, recurrent infections, and failure to respond to pneumococcal vaccination. He was treated with monthly maintenance IVIG therapy. Our patient also was diagnosed with co-existing GLILD that despite IVIG treatment was progressing. The patient needed to be started on Rituxan and Mycophenolate mofetil to achieve control but unfortunately became infected with COVID19 delaying his treatment for GLILD. Our patient only suffered from mild COVID 19 infection and was able to make antibodies to this. We believe severe infection was avoided as his CVID was well controlled with IVIG therapy despite progression of his granulomatous interstitial lung disease.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our patient with CVID with co-existing biopsy proven granulomatous interstitial lung disease despite being very high risk for severe COVID 19 infections only had mild infection. This was believed to be due to well controlled CVID with IVIG therapy.
Anaphylaxis after jellyfish ingestion with no history of stings: a pediatric case report
Authors: Tsuge Mitsuru , Ikeda Masanori , Mitani Osamu , Yasui Masato , Tsukahara Hirokazu
Published: September 2021

Background

Jellyfish stings are known to induce allergic skin reactions; however, case reports of anaphylaxis after jellyfish ingestion have been increasing, especially in Asian countries. Some cases of anaphylaxis after jellyfish ingestion have been reported in patients with a previous history of frequent jellyfish stings. Herein, we report a pediatric patient with anaphylaxis after jellyfish ingestion with no history of jellyfish stings.

Case presentation

A 14-year-old girl developed two episodes of anaphylaxis, and her diet diaries revealed that edible jellyfish was common to the meals in both the anaphylaxis events. A skin prick test using five types of edible jellyfish products revealed a positive reaction to some jellyfish, and anaphylaxis was observed after the ingestion of jellyfish in an oral food challenge test. She had no history of jellyfish stings or frequent swimming in the ocean. The basophil activation test showed positive results on stimulation with extracts from various types of edible jellyfish. We observed serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity to purified jellyfish collagen and jellyfish acid-soluble extracts. Moreover, immunoblotting analysis showed IgE reactivity to two bands at approximately 40 and 70 kDa using purified jellyfish collagen, which may be a causative antigen.

Conclusions

Edible salted jellyfish can be one of the causative foods of anaphylaxis. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of anaphylactic reactions due to jellyfish ingestion even without a history of jellyfish stings.
A renal angiomyolipoma with a challenging presentation: a case report
Authors: Bouaziz H. , Ghalleb M. , Tounsi N. , Riahi N. , Bouzaiene H. , Ziadi J. , Hassouna J. Ben , Slimane M. , Rahal K.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Renal angiomyolipoma is considered a benign mesenchymal tumor composed of fat, smooth muscle, and blood vessels. It represents 1–3% of solid renal tumors. Despite this tumor’s benignity, it can be aggressive with a locoregional extension.

Case report

A 41-year-old north African caucasian woman consulted with chief complaints of right lower back pain with no hematuria and no urinal sign. Thoracic-abdominopelvic contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a right inferior polar heterogeneous renal mass complicated with venous thrombus ascending to the right atrium level. The patient underwent radical nephrectomy under extracorporeal circulation and direct supervision of the fatty thrombus at the right atrium level. The postoperative period was uneventful. The final histologic examination was concordant with renal angiomyolipoma.

Conclusion

Renal angiomyolipoma is the most common benign kidney tumor. Despite its benignity, it can be associated with lethal complications such as hemorrhage, and it can also show signs of local extension mimicking malignant tumors. The cornerstone of the treatment remains surgery.
Therapeutic approach of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in refractory peptic ulcer
Authors: Saleh Mahshid , Sohrabpour Amir Ali , Mehrabi Mohammad Reza , Seyhoun Iman , Vaezi Amir Abbas
Published: September 2021

Peptic ulcer is one of the most common gastrointestinal tract disorders worldwide, associated with challenges such as refractory morbidity, bleeding, interference with use of anticoagulants, and potential side effects associated with long-term use of proton pump inhibitors. A peptic ulcer is a defect in gastric or duodenal mucosa extending from muscularis mucosa to deeper layers of the stomach wall. In most cases, ulcers respond to standard treatments. However, in some people, peptic ulcer becomes resistant to conventional treatment or recurs after initially successful therapy. Therefore, new and safe treatments, including the use of stem cells, are highly favored for these patients. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells are readily available in large quantities with minimal invasive intervention, and isolation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal stem cells (ASC) produces large amounts of stem cells, which are essential for cell-based and restorative therapies. These cells have high flexibility and can differentiate into several types of cells in vitro. This article will investigate the effects and possible mechanisms and signaling pathways of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells in patients with refractory peptic ulcers.
Evaluation of the effect of donor weight on adipose stromal/stem cell characteristics by using weight-discordant monozygotic twin pairs
Authors: Juntunen Miia , Heinonen Sini , Huhtala Heini , Rissanen Aila , Kaprio Jaakko , Kuismanen Kirsi , Pietiläinen Kirsi H. , Miettinen Susanna , Patrikoski Mimmi
Published: September 2021

Background

Adipose stromal/stem cells (ASCs) are promising candidates for future clinical applications. ASCs have regenerative capacity, low immunogenicity, and immunomodulatory ability. The success of future cell-based therapies depends on the appropriate selection of donors. Several factors, including age, sex, and body mass index (BMI), may influence ASC characteristics. Our aim was to investigate the effect of acquired weight on ASC characteristics under the same genetic background using ASCs derived from monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs.

Methods

ASCs were isolated from subcutaneous adipose tissue from five weight-discordant (WD, within-pair difference in BMI > 3 kg/m2) MZ twin pairs, with measured BMI and metabolic status. The ASC immunophenotype, proliferation and osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation capacity were studied. ASC immunogenicity, immunosuppression capacity and the expression of inflammation markers were investigated. ASC angiogenic potential was assessed in cocultures with endothelial cells.

Results

ASCs showed low immunogenicity, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation capacity independent of weight among all donors. ASCs showed a mesenchymal stem cell-like immunophenotype; however, the expression of CD146 was significantly higher in leaner WD twins than in heavier cotwins. ASCs from heavier twins from WD pairs showed significantly greater adipogenic differentiation capacity and higher expression of TNF and lower angiogenic potential compared with their leaner cotwins. ASCs showed immunosuppressive capacity in direct cocultures; however, heavier WD twins showed stronger immunosuppressive capacity than leaner cotwins.

Conclusions

Our genetically matched data suggest that a higher weight of the donor may have some effect on ASC characteristics, especially on angiogenic and adipogenic potential, which should be considered when ASCs are used clinically.
The effect of eating on the uptake of PSMA ligands in the salivary glands
Authors: Mohan V. , Bruin N. M. , van de Kamer J. B. , Sonke J.-J. , Vogel W. V.
Published: September 2021

Rationale

PSMA-directed therapy for metastatic prostate cancer is gaining adoption as a treatment option. However, accumulation of 177Lu/225Ac-PSMA in the salivary glands remains a problem, with risk of dose-limiting xerostomia and potentially severe effect on the quality of life. Gustatory stimulation is an approach that has commonly been used in radioactive iodine therapy to reduce accumulation in the salivary glands. However, based on theoretical differences in biodistribution, it was hypothesized that this could potentially lead to adverse increased toxicity for PSMA-ligand therapy. The primary objective of this work was to determine if gustatory stimulation by eating an assortment of sweet/fatty/acidic foods during the biodistribution phase of [18F]DCFPyl could result in a clinically relevant (> 30%) change in the uptake of the tracer in the salivary glands.

Methods

10 patients who already received a whole-body [18F]DCFPyl PET/CT scan for evaluation of prostate cancer, underwent a repeat (intervention) PET/CT scan within a month of the first (control) scan. During the intervention scan, patients chose from an assortment of sweet/fatty/acidic foods, which they then chewed and swallowed for a period of time starting 1 min before tracer administration to 10 min thereafter. Data from both scans were analyzed by placing VOIs on the major salivary glands and segmenting them using relative thresholds.

Results

A slight increase in PSMA uptake in the parotid glands was observed on the intervention scan when compared to the baseline scan (+ 7.1% SULmean and + 9.2% SULmax, p < 0.05). No significant difference in PSMA uptake in the submandibular glands was seen.

Conclusions

Eating only slightly increases uptake of [18F]DCFPyl in the parotid glands. We nonetheless recommend refraining from gustatory stimulation during the administration and early biodistribution phase of radionuclide therapy with PSMA-ligands to reduce the risk of avoidable additional toxicity.
Effectiveness of polymyxin B hemoperfusion for sepsis depends on the baseline SOFA score: a nationwide observational study
Authors: Fujimori Kenji , Tarasawa Kunio , Fushimi Kiyohide
Published: September 2021

Background

Polymyxin B hemoperfusion (PMX) aims to treat septic shock by removing endotoxin from the patient’s blood. However, the relationship between the severity of the patient's organ damage and the survival benefit of PMX treatment is not clear.

Methods

We analyzed the efficacy of PMX on adult sepsis patients using the propensity score matching method and the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination (DPC) national inpatient database from April 2018 to March 2020. We stratified the patients into five categories based on their baseline Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score and compared the mortality between PMX-treated and non-treated groups in each category. We also compared continuous hemodiafiltration (CHDF)-, ventilator- and noradrenaline-free days between the groups.

Results

Of 44,177 patients included in the study, 2191 received PMX. After 1:1 propensity score matching, we created matched cohorts of 2033 pairs. PMX significantly improved the survival of the patients in the SOFA score categories of 7–9 and 10–12. On the other hand, there was no significant difference in the survival rate in SOFA score categories of 0–6, 13–15, and 16–24. In analyzing organ support-free days, PMX was also beneficial in the 7–9 and 10–12 SOFA categories compared to other categories.

Conclusion

Analysis of a large-scale Japanese inpatient database found a significant association between PMX efficacy and baseline SOFA score. This result indicates higher efficacy in patients with medium SOFA scores in the range of 7–12. The result provides a promising hypothesis for selecting appropriate patients for PMX and should be validated in future RCTs.
Statistical feature-based steganalysis for pixel-value differencing steganography
Authors: Lin Wen-Bin , Lai Tai-Hung , Chang Ko-Chin
Published: September 2021

Pixel-value differencing (PVD) steganography is a popular spatial domain technology. Several PVD-based studies have proposed extended PVD steganography methods. The majority of these studies have verified their security against the regular-singular (RS) analysis. However, RS analysis is aimed at the feature of the least significant bit substitution method, which is relatively less significant for PVD steganography. The pixel difference histogram (PDH) is generally utilized to attack PVD steganography. If the embedding capacity is high, then the features on the PDH are evident; otherwise, the features are less obvious. In this paper, we propose a statistical feature-based steganalysis technique for the original PVD steganography. Experimental results demonstrate that, compared with existing steganalysis technique with weighted stego-image (WS) method, the proposed method effectively detects PVD steganography at low embedding ratios, such that there is no need of using the original embedding parameters. Furthermore, the accuracy and precision of the method are better than those of existing PVD steganalysis techniques. Therefore, the proposed method contributes to the security analysis of the original PVD steganography as an alternative to the commonly used RS, PDH and WS attack techniques.
Performance evaluation and design of 5G communication-based millimeter wave antenna
Authors: Shakir Mustafa , Aslam Sohaib , Sarwar M. Usman , Adnan Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Rafay
Published: September 2021

Multiple categories of electronic devices have been introduced recently in response to the demands and developments in the industry. Around 5.19 billion telecom services subscribers today have a significant effect on the allocation and utilization of bandwidth, and hence, there is extensive need to use higher-frequency bands, e.g., mm band to achieve the required quality of service since there is extensive need to shift the paradigm to the next generation. For 5G networks, antenna structuring and designing is an integral part of the communication system. In antenna theory, improving antenna gain is important to attain isotropic antenna, antenna gain can be improved by the controlled behavior of frequencies, beam forming and choosing the right antenna fabric. Through antenna design using different substrates thickness, the propagation losses are examined in order to determine the variation with radiation characteristics. In this way, the examination of the 5G mm-wave spectrum with comparative analysis of input impedance, gain and radiation efficiency is shown through mathematical modeling. Using this approach, the antenna efficiency is improved by up to 20% with increase in substrate thickness. Different antenna arrays have been designed for effective improvement in reflection coefficients. The results are obtained using simulation of antenna in CST and high-frequency structure simulator.
New interpolation spaces and strict Hölder regularity for fractional abstract Cauchy problem
Authors: Alam Md Mansur , Dubey Shruti , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: September 2021

We know that interpolation spaces in terms of analytic semigroup have a significant role into the study of strict Hölder regularity of solutions of classical abstract Cauchy problem (ACP). In this paper, we first construct interpolation spaces in terms of solution operators in fractional calculus and characterize these spaces. Then we establish strict Hölder regularity of mild solutions of fractional order ACP.
Enhancing reservoir control in the co-dynamics of HIV-VL: from mathematical modeling perspective
Authors: Melese Zinabu Teka , Alemneh Haileyesus Tessema
Published: September 2021

HIV patients are vulnerable to developing active visceral leishmaniasis (VL). To understand this complication, we studied a mathematical model for HIV and visceral leishmaniasis coinfection. In this approach, we reckoned two distinct equilibria: the disease-free and the endemic equilibria. The local and global stability of the disease-free equilibrium were thoroughly investigated. To further support the qualitative findings, we performed simulations to quantify the changes of the dynamical behavior of the full model for variation of relevant parameters. Increasing the rate of VL recovery ($\phi _{1}$

ϕ
1

), the recovery rate for VL–HIV Co-infection ($\phi _{2}$

ϕ
2

), removing reservoirs ($c_{1}$

c
1

), minimizing the contact rate ($\beta _{h}$

β
h

) are important in controlling the transmission of individual and co-infection disease of VL and HIV. In conclusion, possible measures should be implemented to reduce the number of infected individuals. Therefore, we recommend that policy makers and stakeholders incorporate these measures during planing and implementation phases to control the transmission of VL–HIV co-infection.
Mean-square exponential input-to-state stability of stochastic inertial neural networks
Authors: Wang Wentao , Chen Wei
Published: September 2021

By introducing some parameters perturbed by white noises, we propose a class of stochastic inertial neural networks in random environments. Constructing two Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals, we establish the mean-square exponential input-to-state stability on the addressed model, which generalizes and refines the recent results. In addition, an example with numerical simulation is carried out to support the theoretical findings.
Integrating traditional practices and social network visualization to prevent substance use: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial among urban Native American emerging adults
Authors: D’Amico Elizabeth J. , Dickerson Daniel L. , Rodriguez Anthony , Brown Ryan A. , Kennedy David P. , Palimaru Alina I. , Johnson Carrie , Smart Rosanna , Klein David J. , Parker Jennifer , McDonald Keisha , Woodward Michael J. , Gudgell Ninna
Published: September 2021

Background

Nonmedical use of prescription opioids (defined as taking opioid medications for hedonic effects or in a manner other than prescribed) and the use of heroin have emerged in recent years as major public health concerns in the United States. Of particular concern is the prevalence of opioid use among emerging adults (ages 18–25), as this is a developmental period of heightened vulnerability and critical social, neurological, and psychological development. Data from 2015 show that American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) people have the highest rates of diagnosis for opioid use disorders (OUDs). One recent study found that the overdose death rate among urban-dwelling AI/AN individuals was 1.4 times higher compared to those living in rural areas. To date, there are no evidence-based prevention programs addressing opioid use among urban AI/AN emerging adults that integrate culturally-appropriate strategies with evidence-based treatment. Traditions and Connections for Urban Native Americans (TACUNA) builds on our prior work with AI/AN communities across California to develop and evaluate culturally appropriate programming to address opioid, alcohol, and cannabis use among urban AI/AN emerging adults.

Methods/design

In a randomized controlled trial, 18–25 year old urban AI/AN emerging adults will receive either TACUNA (n = 185), which comprises three virtual workshops utilizing motivational interviewing, social network visualization, and integrating traditional practices and a wellness circle, or one virtual culturally sensitive opioid education workshop (n = 185). We will evaluate intervention effects on primary outcomes of frequency of opioid, alcohol, and cannabis use, as well as secondary outcomes of social network characteristics and cultural connectedness, over a 12-month period.

Discussion

This project has the potential to expand the range and effectiveness of opioid, alcohol, and cannabis services for urban AI/AN emerging adults by addressing the opioid epidemic and use of other substances at both the community and individual level. In addition, it provides important culturally grounded conceptual and practical information to advance the field of substance use interventions and enhance resiliency among this population.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04617938. Registered October 26, 2020 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT04617938.