bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the effectiveness of verb-focused and particle-focused exercise formats on the recall and recognition of phrasal verbs
Authors: Strong Brian , Leeming Paul
Published: March 2024

Phrasal verbs are important for successful communication and yet are incredibly challenging for language learners. The current study compared two exercise formats for the learning of phrasal verbs. One format draws attention to the verb, while the other brings into focus the particle. In the verb-focused format, students were asked to guess the missing verb before receiving feedback. In the particle-focused format, they were told to guess the missing particle before feedback was presented. The results of a cued-recall test showed that the recall of phrasal verbs was enhanced more effectively in the particle-focused format than in the verb-focused format, although this advantage diminished after one week. A multiple-choice test revealed no significant difference between the two methods in terms of their impact on the recognition of phrasal verbs. The current study also aimed to test the prediction of the episodic recollection hypothesis, which specifies that memory of the initial guess plays a critical role in the subsequent recall of the correct answer. It was also found that asking students to recall their initial guess moderated their performance in the posttest. Overall, the findings of the current study suggest that the particle-focused format boosts the memory of phrasal verbs and that to minimize the adverse effects of proactive interference, it is vital for students to remember their errors. This means that teachers would be advised to focus on exercises that provide the verb and encourage guessing of the particle.
Clinical context and communication in shared decision-making about major surgery: Findings from a qualitative study with colorectal, orthopaedic and cardiac patients
Authors: Hughes Gemma , Stephens Timothy J , Seuren Lucas M , Pearse Rupert M , Shaw Sara E
Published: March 2024

Increasing numbers of older people undergo major surgery in the United Kingdom (UK), with many at high risk of complications due to age, co-morbidities or frailty. This article reports on a study of such patients and their clinicians engaged in shared decision-making. Shared decision-making is a collaborative approach that seeks to value and centre patients’ preferences, potentially addressing asymmetries of knowledge and power between clinicians and patients by countering medical authority with greater patient empowerment. We studied shared decision-making practices in the context of major surgery by recruiting 16 patients contemplating either colorectal, cardiac or joint replacement surgery in the UK National Health Service (NHS). Over 18 months 2019–2020, we observed and video-recorded decision-making consultations, studied the organisational and clinical context for consultations, and interviewed patients and clinicians about their experiences of making decisions. Linguistic ethnography, the study of communication and interaction in context, guided us to analyse the interplay between interactions (during consultations between clinicians, patients and family members) and clinical and organisational features of the contexts for those interactions. We found that the framing of consultations as being about life-saving or life-enhancing procedures was important in producing three different genres of consultations focused variously on: resolving problems, deliberation of options and evaluation of benefits of surgery. We conclude that medical authority persists, but can be used to create more deliberative opportunities for decision-making through amending the context for consultations in addition to adopting appropriate communication practices during surgical consultations.
Interviewing Didier Raoult: The scientist who breaks the frame
Authors: Chartier Pierre
Published: March 2024

This paper examines how normative roles of interaction in broadcast news interviews are disrupted during interviews with French expert immunologist and scientist Didier Raoult. The analysis is based on the organisation of the news interview as a particular form of institutional talk, and on the discursive features of expertise. There are three key aspects to the construction of Raoult as a central figure of the pandemic scene in France. The first is his prominent media presence online, the second is his regular appeal to historical events, in relation to France and to his family, and the third is his own status as director of a team of epidemiology experts at the IHU (Institut Hospitalier Universitaire) in Marseille. In the three interviews in the data set, these three aspects emerge as legitimate discursive grounding for his stance regarding the pandemic, and relevant treatment for the virus. The paper is organised as follows: the first part is a presentation of Didier Raoult and the mediated context from which the corpus of interviews is selected. In the second, the discussion focuses on the discourse of scientific expertise, and how Raoult constructs his expert status in the interviews. The final part will analyse how he puts this expert status to work as a discursive resource for disrupting the interactional norms that generally hold between journalists on the one hand, and interviewees on the other.
Endovascular biopsy in neurointerventional surgery: A systematic review
Authors: Shekhtman Oleg , Sioutas Georgios S , Piavchenko Gennadii , Bhalla Shubhang , Cooke Daniel L , Winkler Ethan , Burkhardt Jan-Karl , Srinivasan Visish M
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Endothelial cells (ECs) continuously line the cerebrovasculature. Molecular aberrations in the ECs are hallmarks and contributory factors to the development of cerebrovascular diseases, including intracranial aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Endovascular biopsy has been introduced as a method to harvest ECs and obtain relevant biologic information. We aimed to summarize the literature on endovascular biopsy in neurointerventional surgery.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive literature search in multiple databases, identifying eligible studies focusing on neurosurgical applications of endovascular biopsy. The systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The relevant information was collected, including study characteristics, biopsy techniques, and key findings.

Results

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were included. The studies involved the collection of ECs using various endovascular devices including coils, guide wires, different stents, and forceps. Endothelial-enrichment techniques, such fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), collected ECs and facilitated downstream applications of bulk or single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq). The studies provided insights into gene expression profiles and identified potential biomarkers associated with intracranial aneurysms. However, challenges were observed in obtaining an adequate number of ECs and identifying consistent biomarkers.

Conclusion

Endovascular biopsy of endothelial cells (ECs) in cerebrovascular pathologies shows promise for gene expression profiling. However, many studies have been limited in sample size and underpowered to identify “signature genes” for aneurysm growth or rupture. Advancements in minimally invasive biopsy methods have potential to facilitate applications of precision medicine in the treatment of cerebrovascular disorders.
Exploring the Mechanisms of the Huangqin Qingfei Decoction in Pneumonia Treatment for Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Mouse Model: A Network Pharmacology Analysis and Experimental Validation
Authors: Zheng Zengle , Lei Jingyun , Chang Jia , Yi Xiuxiu , Zhou Guoying , Chen Jing
Published: March 2024

Objective: In this study, a network pharmacological approach, and in vivo validation experiments were used to screen the active components of the Huangqin Qingfei decoction (HQFD) for their therapeutic efficacy in pneumonia. Methods: The active ingredients and targets of the HQFD were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform, while pneumonia-related targets were obtained from GeneCards, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, and the Therapeutic Target Database. A protein–protein interaction network was constructed to identify core targets, followed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses using Metascape. A lipopolysaccharide-induced pneumonia mouse model was established, and verification of the main targets predicted by network pharmacology and therapeutic efficacy assessment was conducted using pathological staining, Western blot, and polymerase chain reaction. Results: We identified 51 active components in the HQFD that primarily affected pneumonia-related targets AKT1, PTGS2, MAPK14, and MMP9. The outcomes of the pathway enrichment analyses conducted by the KEGG and the GO demonstrated that the HQFD regulates genes associated with pathways in cancer, the lipid and atherosclerosis, as well as the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications. Experiments on animals demonstrated that the AKT1, PTGS2, MAPK14, and MMP9 mRNA expression and p-AKT, p-P38, PTGS2, and MMP9 protein expression in lung tissues were significantly upregulated in the model group when compared to the control group. AKT1, PTGS2, MAPK14, MMP9 mRNA expression, and p-AKT, p-P38, PTGS2, and MMP9 protein expression were all lower in the HQFD groups in contrast to the model group. Conclusions: The effects of HQFD on pneumonia can be attributed to its active ingredients, including beta-sitosterol, wogonin, and quercetin. The mechanism involves multiple targets and pathways, including the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and NF-kappa B signaling pathway, and modulation of AKT, PTGS2, MAPK14, and MMP9 expression. The HQFD reduces inflammatory damage and pneumonia symptoms via these mechanisms.
Video Analysis of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Male Professional Basketball Players: Injury Mechanisms, Situational Patterns, and Biomechanics
Authors: Tosarelli Filippo , Buckthorpe Matthew , Di Paolo Stefano , Grassi Alberto , Rodas Gil , Zaffagnini Stefano , Nanni Gianni , Della Villa Francesco
Published: March 2024

Background:

Improving our understanding of the situations and biomechanics that result in an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in basketball players may support the design of more effective programs to mitigate the risk of injury.

Purpose:

To (1) describe the mechanisms, situational patterns, and gross biomechanics (kinematics) of ACL injuries in professional basketball matches using video analysis and (2) document the distribution of ACL injuries according to player position, phase of the match, and location on the court.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 38 ACL injuries in professional male European basketball leagues from the 2013-2014 to 2019-2020 seasons were identified. There were 36 (95%) injury videos analyzed for injury mechanisms and situational patterns, while biomechanical analysis was possible in 32 cases. Overall, 3 independent reviewers evaluated each video. Data according to player position (n = 38), phase of the match (n = 38), and location on the court (n = 36) were evaluated.

Results:

More injuries occurred while attacking (n = 25 [69%]) than defending (n = 11 [31%]). There was 1 (3%) direct contact injury, 21 (58%) indirect contact injuries, and 14 (39%) noncontact injuries. Most injuries (83%) occurred during 3 main situations: offensive cut (n = 17 [47%]), landing from a jump (n = 8 [22%]), and defensive cut (n = 5 [14%]). Injuries generally involved knee flexion (with minimal hip/trunk flexion and reduced plantarflexion) in the sagittal plane and knee valgus loading in most cases (75%). A similar number of injuries occurred during the first (53%) and second (47%) halves of the match, with a higher prevalence in the second (37%) and fourth (34%) quarters. Half of the injuries occurred during the first 10 minutes of effective playing time. More injuries occurred in guards (58%), and 73% of all injuries occurred in the scoring zone.

Conclusion:

Indirect contact was the main injury mechanism found in male professional basketball players. The offensive cut was the most common situational pattern. Biomechanical analysis confirmed a multiplanar mechanism, with knee loading in the sagittal plane accompanied by dynamic valgus. More injuries occurred in the first 10 minutes of a player's effective playing time, within the scoring zone, and among guards.
Russian war, Estonian exceptions: Sovereignty, governmentality, biopolitics
Authors: Makarychev Andrey
Published: March 2024

The author analyzes Estonia as a case study to explore two interrelated research questions – how exceptions are produced and reversed through the mechanisms of sovereignty and governmentality projected onto geo- and biopolitical domains, and how the new practices of exceptionalization and de-exceptionalization contribute to the emergence of a new spatial order at Europe’s eastern margins? Three types of policies unfolded in Estonia as reactions to the Russian war against Ukraine are identified. First, the Estonian government introduced extraordinary measures based on the logic of national interests, which left much space for discretionary power to define risks, threats, and dangers. Secondly, some policy domains were intentionally de-exceptionalized for the sake of their better integration into Estonian normative space and as a reaction to the effects of the war. Third, in some cases there were exceptions from exceptions, which meant certain steps back toward normalization of the previously taken exceptional measures. The theoretical frame of the article consists of two nodal concepts – sovereignty and governmentality to be projected onto geo- and biopolitics treated as spheres in which sovereign and governmental powers operate and expose their political qualities.
A digital twin framework for innovating rural ecological landscape control
Authors: Tan Fangqi , Cheng Yuning
Published: March 2024

Background

Because cities prioritize economic development and face ecological space and resource constraints, the development of rural areas, which have untapped potential, should receive increased attention. Consequently, rural ecological landscapes should be constructed through the control of land use types and quality to fully ensure the sustainable development of urban and rural ecosystems. The digital twin is a philosophy and a methodology that connects the digital and physical realms, facilitating realistic and dynamic mapping simulations of the real world. This capability offers valuable insights for digital decision-making, maintenance, and optimization of rural ecological landscapes. Given the digital transformation of rural ecological landscape control, this paper proposes a rural intelligent control approach based on the digital twin concept and new technology.

Methods

Five components of the rural ecological landscape digital twin framework are selected to collectively facilitate the monitoring and analysis of rural conditions, formulate strategic solutions, implement management and control behaviors, and enhance participant interaction. The method includes three steps: mapping and fusing information, constructing and managing a database, and constructing a digital platform. Data mining and spatial fusion are performed through targeted mapping methods, and Oracle and ArcGIS SDE are utilized for database construction and fused data management. The twin platform is generated via HTML, desktop application development and geographic information system development technologies using a distributed system as the core.

Results

Based on multiple case studies, our platform efficiently gathers system information on rural ecological landscapes using a twin model. Through evaluation and analysis, it determines landscape governance zones, adjusting them based on land use conditions. The platform refines control schemes with feedback from diverse users, ensuring effective control in various scenarios. Its key advantages include high development efficiency, flexible access, and smooth cross-platform integration. Although implemented in rural China, the proposed digital twin framework is applicable to any rural area requiring ecological landscape digital control.

Conclusions

The value of the platform lies in its powerful information processing capability, overcoming the limitations of time and space and enabling the presentation and integration of fictional scenes Thus, the platform provides a reference for the digital transformation of rural ecological landscape control.
In vitro and in silico studies of enterobactin-inspired Ciprofloxacin and Fosfomycin first generation conjugates on the antibiotic resistant E. coli OQ866153
Authors: Khazaal Mohamed T. , Faraag Ahmed H. I. , El-Hendawy Hoda H.
Published: March 2024

Background

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial pathogens is a growing concern worldwide due to its impact on the treatment of bacterial infections. The "Trojan Horse" strategy has been proposed as a potential solution to overcome drug resistance caused by permeability issues.

Objective

The objective of our research was to investigate the bactericidal activity and mechanism of action of the "Trojan Horse" strategy using enterobactin conjugated with Ciprofloxacin and Fosfomycin against the antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli strain OQ866153.

Methodology

Enterobactin, a mixed ligand of E. coli OQ866153, was conjugated with Ciprofloxacin and Fosfomycin individually to aid active absorption via specific enterobactin binding proteins (FepABCDG). The effectiveness of the conjugates was assessed by measuring their bactericidal activity against E. coli OQ866153, as well as their ability to inhibit DNA gyrase enzyme and biofilm formation.

Results

The Fe+3-enterobactin-Ciprofloxacin conjugate effectively inhibited the DNA gyrase enzyme (Docking score = -8.597 kcal/mol) and resulted in a lower concentration (25 μg/ml) required to eliminate supercoiled DNA plasmids compared to the parent drug (35 μg/ml; Docking score = -6.264 kcal/mol). The Fe+3-Enterobactin-Fosfomycin conjugate showed a higher inhibition percentage (100%) of biofilm formation compared to Fosfomycin (21.58%) at a concentration of 2 mg/ml, with docking scores of -5.481 and -3.756 kcal/mol against UDP-N acetylglucosamine 1-carboxyvinyltransferase MurA.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that the "Trojan Horse" strategy using enterobactin conjugated with Ciprofloxacin and Fosfomycin can effectively overcome permeability issues caused by efflux proteins and enhance the bactericidal activity of these drugs against antibiotic-resistant strains of E. coli.
The effect of pregnancy on renal angiomyolipoma; a world of knowledge to gain, specifically in women with TSC
Authors: Kluiving Marlou W. , Peeters Evelien F. H. I. , Lely Titia A. , van Oorschot Niek , de Ranitz-Greven Wendela L.
Published: March 2024

Background

Women are counseled preconceptionally about the potential risks of rAML progression and chance of complications during and due to pregnancy. However, a systematic search investigating the evidence on which this advice is based does not exist. The aim of this systematic review is to determine the effect of pregnancy on renal angiomyolipoma (rAML) size and risk of haemorrhage in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Medline and ClinicalTrials.gov using terms for “renal angiomyolipoma” and “pregnancy”. English-language articles published between January 1st 2000, and December 31st 2020 of which full-text was available were included. The initial search resulted in 176 articles. After the screening process we included 45 case reports and 1 retrospective study. For the retrospective study we assessed the risk of bias using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. We included articles about renal AML and pregnancy with and without an established diagnosis of TSC. From these articles we recorded the rAML sizes and rAML complications.

Results

Seven case reports, from a total of 45 case reports, provided follow-up data on renal AML size (these were all cases of renal AML without a known diagnosis of TSC). Of these cases, renal AML size decreased in one patient, was stable in one patient, increased in three patients and fluctuated in two others. Renal AML size of women who suffered a haemorrhage were significantly larger (12.1 ± 4.6 cm) than rAMLs of women who did not suffer a haemorrhage (8.3 ± 3.2 cm). Data from the retrospective study showed no difference in renal complications between the women with and without a history of pregnancy. Haemorrhage occurred in 30% of the women with a history of pregnancy (n = 20) and in 11% in the patients without a history of pregnancy (n = 2), however this retrospective study had methodological limitations.

Conclusion

The effect of pregnancy on renal AML size and complications in patients with TSC is unclear. More research is needed to determine the risk of pregnancy on TSC-associated kidney disease in TSC patient.
The oral health impact profile and well-being on mothers and preschool children
Authors: Silva Bianca Núbia Souza , de Campos Lucas Arrais , Maroco João , Campos Juliana Alvares Duarte Bonini
Published: March 2024

Objectives

to verify the contribution of mothers’ oral health impact profile to their children’s oral health profile and the contribution of mothers’ well-being and the caries index (dmft) to children’s well-being.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional observational study. Mothers and pre-school children enrolled in public schools in the municipality of Araraquara-SP took part. The Oral Health Impact Profile Questionnaire (OHIP-14), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) and the Autoquestionnaire Qualité de Vie Enfant Imagé (AUQEI) were used. To diagnose caries, a clinical examination was carried out to calculate the dmft index. Path analysis was carried out and the path coefficients were estimated (β) and evaluated using the z-test (α = 5%).

Results

443 children took part (5.19 ± 0.64 years; 52.4% boys) with an mean dmft of 1.31 ± 2.19. The mean age of the mothers was 33.4 ± 7.01 years. There was a significant impact of dmft and maternal well-being on the child’s subjective well-being (s2explained = 43%). The mothers’ oral health impact profile and the child’s caries experience had a significant influence on both the child (OHIP: β = 0.22; p < 0.001; dmft: β = 0.48; p < 0.001) and the family (OHIP: β = 0.29; p < 0.001; dmft: β = 0.32; p < 0.001). The child’s dmft (β=-0.10; p = 0.005) and the mothers’ subjective well-being (β=-0.61; p < 0.001) had a significant impact on the child’s subjective well-being.

Conclusion

The mothers’ oral health impact profile and the child’s caries experience had an impact on both the child and the family. Mothers’ subjective well-being and caries experience should be considered when assessing the subjective well-being of Brazilian preschool children.
Investigation of the presence of Non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) in ancient adult skulls: analyzing data from prehistoric and historical samples through a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dioguardi Mario , Spirito Francesca , Lo Muzio Eleonora , Sovereto Diego , Ballini Andrea , Alovisi Mario , Toto Giusi Antonia , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Di Cosola Michele
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Historically, the prevalence of caries has undergone significant changes, particularly increasing with the industrialization of sugar consumption. When examining ancient populations, lower caries rates are discovered, attributed in part to dietary factors. These populations consumed abrasive foods, leading to occlusal wear and reduced non-axial occlusal forces, potentially influencing Non-Carious Cervical Lesions (NCCLs). Although some attribute NCCLs to abfraction, the mechanism remains debated. This systematic review aims to evaluate the presence of NCCLs in ancient populations, shedding light on the factors contributing to their occurrence.

Materials and Methods

The present systematic review was registered on PROSPERO, and the manuscript was prepared following PRISMA guidelines.

Results

After the literature search and article screening, data from 6 studies were included in the meta-analysis, with only 2 reporting NCCLs in ancient skulls, encopassing 17 subjects in 805 examined skulls, suggesting their presence even before the widespread use of toothbrushes. This finding indicates a potential etiopathogenic mechanism linked to abfraction, but the cause is complex and involves abrasive and erosive factors closely tied to dietary habits.

Conclusions

In summary, NCCLs were present in ancient populations, albeit with a much lower prevalence. Their occurrence cannot be solely attributed to wear mechanisms but must be connected to abrasive factors related to diet or practices with religious and cultural significance, such as the use of labrets. Clinical relevance: Th the knowledge of NCCLs presence in acient sculls is crucial today for better understand the associated risk factors. In this context, the analysis of ancient skulls allows us to discern the role that tooth brushing and diet played in the formation of NCCLs, over the past century.
Exploring clinical teachers’ beliefs about teaching in a newly established medical school in Southern Switzerland
Authors: Poretti Marilù Guigli , Monti Matteo , Fadda Marta
Published: March 2024

Academic social contexts and educational beliefs may influence teaching practices and teaching intentions. Insight into such beliefs represents an important source of information for medical schools to improve the quality of teaching and to guide content of faculty development programs. The aim of this study was to explore beliefs about teaching among prospective clinical teachers at a newly established medical school in Southern Switzerland and to estimate the relationship between these beliefs and intention to commit to teaching in the newly established medical curriculum using Fishbein’s integrative model of behaviour prediction. We targeted a purposive sample of physicians working in hospital departments potentially involved in the clinical immersion of medical students enrolled in the program. We designed a cross-sectional quantitative study using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire included both items developed by the authors and items belonging to a previously validated questionnaire. Participants showed a high intention to commit to teaching in the newly established curriculum. We found that self-efficacy beliefs and two sets of behavioural beliefs, namely perceived importance and expectations, had a positive correlation with the intention to commit. On the other hand, we pointed out a number of normative beliefs that in the long run could hinder the maintenance of this commitment, which should be addressed both at the levels of both faculty development and institutional policy rules. Our study also highlights the importance of reinforcing teachers’ perceived self-efficacy in providing clinical supervision, strengthening their perceived importance of the clinical supervision, and incentivising the commitment of teachers by ensuring they have protected time to devote to this activity.
Individual and organizational interventions to promote staff health and well-being in residential long-term care: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials over the past 20 years
Authors: Herz Michael , Bösl Sabina , Gebhard Doris
Published: March 2024

Background

Staff in residential long-term care (RLTC) experience significant physical and mental work demands. However, research on specific interventions to promote staff health and well-being in RLTC facilities is limited. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the current evidence on health promotion interventions among RLTC staff.

Methods

A comprehensive systematic literature review was conducted on studies published between January 2000 and April 2023. Four electronic databases were searched, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and PsychArticles via EBSCO. The review followed the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Risk of Bias Assessment tool (RoB 2).

Results

A total of 26 publications, referring to 23 different interventions with a randomized controlled design were included. Among these interventions, ten used training/educational approaches, six used behavioral approaches, and seven employed a multimodal approach. Significant improvements in health and well-being outcomes were found in four interventions using a training/educational approach, three interventions using a behavioral approach, and four interventions using a multimodal approach. Within the interventions studied, twelve specifically targeted the reduction of job demands, while only one intervention exclusively addressed job resources among RLTC staff. Furthermore, ten interventions addressed primary outcomes that encompassed both job demands and job resources.

Conclusion

Current evidence for health promotion interventions among RLTC staff is still limited, but research suggests that there is potential to improve certain outcomes related to RLTC staff health and well-being. Future research is recommended to contemplate a tailored intervention design that encompasses both individual-level and organizational-level approaches, and gender-specific physiological and sociological characteristics of RLTC staff. Moreover, detailed reporting of the development process, and research on the interaction between job demands and resources of RLTC staff are also recommended.
Immune response enhancement by dietary supplementation with Caesalpinia sappan extract in weaned pigs challenged with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus
Authors: Arjin Chaiwat , Hongsibsong Surat , Pringproa Kidsadagon , Ruksiriwanich Warintorn , Lumsangkul Chompunut , Arunorat Jirapat , Chuammitri Phongsakorn , Seel-audom Mintra , Sommano Sarana Rose , Sringarm Korawan
Published: March 2024

Background

At present, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) caused by the PRRS virus (PRRSV) is one of the most severe epidemics impacting pig farming globally. Despite the fact that a number of studies have been conducted on potential solutions to this problem, none have proven effective. The focus of problem solving is the use of natural ingredients such as plant extracts. Popular throughout Asia, Caesalpinia sappan (CS) is a therapeutic plant that inhibits PRRSV in vitro. Therefore, this study was performed to determine the efficacy of CS extract dietary supplementation on the productive performance, antibody levels, immunological indicators, and lung pathology of PRRSV-challenged weaned pigs. A total of 32 weaned piglets (28 days old) were randomized into 4 groups and kept separately for 14 days. The treatments were organized in a 2 × 2 factorial design involving two factors: PRRSV challenge and supplementation with 1 mg/kg CS extract. The pigs in the PRRSV-challenged groups were intranasally inoculated with 2 mL of PRRSV (VR2332) containing 104 TCID50/mL, while those in the groups not challenged with PRRSV were inoculated with 2 mL of normal saline.

Results

In the PRRSV-challenged group (CS + PRRSV), supplementation with CS extract led to an increase in white blood cells (WBCs) on Day 7 post infection (p < 0.05) and particularly in lymphocytes on Days 7 and 14. The antibody titer was significantly greater in the CS + PRRSV group than in the PRRSV-challenged group not administered CS (PRRSV group) on Day 14 postinfection (S/P = 1.19 vs. 0.78). In addition, CS extract administration decreased the prevalence of pulmonary lesions, which were more prevalent in the PRRSV-challenged pigs that did not receive the CS extract.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that supplementation with CS extract is beneficial for increasing WBC counts, especially lymphocytes, increasing the levels of antibodies and reducing the prevalence of lung lesions in PRRSV-infected pigs.
Fatigue in children who have recently completed treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a longitudinal study
Authors: Walsh S. , Mulraney M. , McCarthy M.C. , De Luca Cinzia R.
Published: March 2024

Background

This study examined fatigue in patients treated for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) over a 2-year period (3- to 27-months post-treatment completion), from the perspective of children and parent caregivers, compared to a healthy comparison group.

Methods

Eighty-three patients (4–16 years at enrolment) and their parents, reported on the child’s fatigue using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory– Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (PedsQL-MFS), at 3- 15- and 27-months post-treatment completion, and 53 healthy children and their parents reported on fatigue across the same timepoints.

Results

Parent proxy-reporting showed that parents of ALL patients reported more total fatigue than parents of the comparison group at all time points, with all subscales elevated (general, cognitive, and sleep/rest fatigue). In contrast, patient self-report of fatigue over this period differed from the comparison children for the general fatigue subscale only. Self-reported total fatigue was worse than the comparison group at the 27-month timepoint, with cognitive and sleep/rest fatigue symptoms contributing to this difference. Expected improvements in fatigue over time were not evident in either patient or parent report and no demographic risk factors were identified. Parents and children from both groups reported significantly more fatigue at all time points compared to commonly utilised normative population data.

Conclusions

Patients treated for childhood ALL are impacted by fatigue symptoms in the post-treatment and early survivorship period. These findings highlight that patients in the 2-years following treatment require increased symptom surveillance and may benefit particularly from interventions that target cognitive and sleep/rest fatigue.
Deciphering the dynamics of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation: from molecular signaling to nanotherapeutic advances
Authors: Aboelnaga Nirmeen , Elsayed Salma W. , Abdelsalam Nehal Adel , Salem Salma , Saif Nehal A. , Elsayed Manar , Ayman Shehab , Nasr Maha , Elhadidy Mohamed
Published: March 2024

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) represents a global threat, necessitating the development of effective solutions to combat this emerging superbug. In response to selective pressures within healthcare, community, and livestock settings, MRSA has evolved increased biofilm formation as a multifaceted virulence and defensive mechanism, enabling the bacterium to thrive in harsh conditions. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms contributing to biofilm formation across its developmental stages, hence representing a step forward in developing promising strategies for impeding or eradicating biofilms. During staphylococcal biofilm development, cell wall-anchored proteins attach bacterial cells to biotic or abiotic surfaces; extracellular polymeric substances build scaffolds for biofilm formation; the cidABC operon controls cell lysis within the biofilm, and proteases facilitate dispersal. Beside the three main sequential stages of biofilm formation (attachment, maturation, and dispersal), this review unveils two unique developmental stages in the biofilm formation process for MRSA; multiplication and exodus. We also highlighted the quorum sensing as a cell-to-cell communication process, allowing distant bacterial cells to adapt to the conditions surrounding the bacterial biofilm. In S. aureus, the quorum sensing process is mediated by autoinducing peptides (AIPs) as signaling molecules, with the accessory gene regulator system playing a pivotal role in orchestrating the production of AIPs and various virulence factors. Several quorum inhibitors showed promising anti-virulence and antibiofilm effects that vary in type and function according to the targeted molecule. Disrupting the biofilm architecture and eradicating sessile bacterial cells are crucial steps to prevent colonization on other surfaces or organs. In this context, nanoparticles emerge as efficient carriers for delivering antimicrobial and antibiofilm agents throughout the biofilm architecture. Although metal-based nanoparticles have been previously used in combatting biofilms, its non-degradability and toxicity within the human body presents a real challenge. Therefore, organic nanoparticles in conjunction with quorum inhibitors have been proposed as a promising strategy against biofilms. As nanotherapeutics continue to gain recognition as an antibiofilm strategy, the development of more antibiofilm nanotherapeutics could offer a promising solution to combat biofilm-mediated resistance.
New insight into avian malaria vectors in New Zealand
Authors: Schoener E. R. , Tompkins D. M. , Howe L. , Castro I. C.
Published: March 2024

Background

Mosquitoes (Culicidae) are vectors for most malaria parasites of the Plasmodium species and are required for Plasmodium spp. to complete their life cycle. Despite having 16 species of mosquitoes and the detection of many Plasmodium species in birds, little is known about the role of different mosquito species in the avian malaria life cycle in New Zealand.

Methods

In this study, we used nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR to determine Plasmodium spp. prevalence and diversity of mitochondrial cytochrome b gene sequences in wild-caught mosquitoes sampled across ten sites on the North Island of New Zealand during 2012–2014. The mosquitoes were pooled by species and location collected, and the thorax and abdomens were examined separately for Plasmodium spp. DNA. Akaike information criterion (AIC) modeling was used to test whether location, year of sampling, and mosquito species were significant predictors of minimum infection rates (MIR).

Results

We collected 788 unengorged mosquitoes of six species, both native and introduced. The most frequently caught mosquito species were the introduced Aedes notoscriptus and the native Culex pervigilans. Plasmodium sp DNA was detected in 37% of matched thorax and abdomen pools. When considered separately, 33% of abdomen and 23% of thorax pools tested positive by nested PCR. The MIR of the positive thorax pools from introduced mosquito species was 1.79% for Ae. notoscriptus and 0% for Cx. quinquefasciatus, while the MIR for the positive thorax pools of native mosquito species was 4.9% for Cx. pervigilans and 0% for Opifex fuscus. For the overall MIR, site and mosquito species were significant predictors of Plasmodium overall MIR. Aedes notoscriptus and Cx. pervigilans were positive for malaria DNA in the thorax samples, indicating that they may play a role as avian malaria vectors. Four different Plasmodium lineages (SYAT05, LINN1, GRW6, and a new lineage of P (Haemamoeba) sp. AENOT11) were identified in the pooled samples.

Conclusions

This is the first detection of avian Plasmodium DNA extracted from thoraxes of native Culex and introduced Aedes mosquito species in New Zealand and therefore the first study providing an indication of potential vectors in this country.

Graphical Abstract
Reprograming skin fibroblasts into Sertoli cells: a patient-specific tool to understand effects of genetic variants on gonadal development
Authors: Parivesh Abhinav , Délot Emmanuèle , Reyes Alejandra , Ryan Janelle , Bhattacharya Surajit , Harley Vincent , Vilain Eric
Published: March 2024

Background

Disorders/differences of sex development (DSD) are congenital conditions in which the development of chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex is atypical. With overlapping phenotypes and multiple genes involved, poor diagnostic yields are achieved for many of these conditions. The current DSD diagnostic regimen can be augmented by investigating transcriptome/proteome in vivo, but it is hampered by the unavailability of affected gonadal tissue at the relevant developmental stage. We try to mitigate this limitation by reprogramming readily available skin tissue-derived dermal fibroblasts into Sertoli cells (SC), which could then be deployed for different diagnostic strategies. SCs form the target cell type of choice because they act like an organizing center of embryonic gonadal development and many DSD arise when these developmental processes go awry.

Methods

We employed a computational predictive algorithm for cell conversions called Mogrify to predict the transcription factors (TFs) required for direct reprogramming of human dermal fibroblasts into SCs. We established trans-differentiation culture conditions where stable transgenic expression of these TFs was achieved in 46, XY adult dermal fibroblasts using lentiviral vectors. The resulting Sertoli like cells (SLCs) were validated for SC phenotype using several approaches.

Results

SLCs exhibited Sertoli-like morphological and cellular properties as revealed by morphometry and xCelligence cell behavior assays. They also showed Sertoli-specific expression of molecular markers such as SOX9, PTGDS, BMP4, or DMRT1 as revealed by IF imaging, RNAseq and qPCR. The SLC transcriptome shared about two thirds of its differentially expressed genes with a human adult SC transcriptome and expressed markers typical of embryonic SCs. Notably, SLCs lacked expression of most markers of other gonadal cell types such as Leydig, germ, peritubular myoid or granulosa cells.

Conclusions

The trans-differentiation method was applied to a variety of commercially available 46, XY fibroblasts derived from patients with DSD and to a 46, XX cell line. The DSD SLCs displayed altered levels of trans-differentiation in comparison to normal 46, XY-derived SLCs, thus showcasing the robustness of this new trans-differentiation model. Future applications could include using the SLCs to improve definitive diagnosis of DSD in patients with variants of unknown significance.
Age constraints on island-arc submarine basalts from geomagnetic paleointensity
Authors: Usui Yoichi , McIntosh Iona , Ishizuka Osamu
Published: March 2024

High-resolution dating of volcanic rocks is the foundation for understanding the evolution of volcanoes and for estimating possible hazards. However, dating is often difficult for submarine volcanoes, where radiocarbon or other dating is frequently unavailable or imprecise. Here, we report paleointensity results from submarine basalts around Izu-Oshima Island, a typical island-arc volcano, and their bearing on age constraints. Basaltic lava samples were collected from submarine ridges located southeast of Izu-Oshima Island. Rock magnetic data indicate that the samples contain Ti-rich titanomagnetite with blocking temperatures of around 250–400 °C. The magnetic properties of the samples do not change significantly when heated in Ar or vacuum. We apply the Tsunakawa-Shaw method to estimate absolute paleointensity. Samples from different submarine ridges show distinct behavior. One ridge (SE1) shows moderate paleointensity of about 37 μT, while another ridge (SE3) records relatively strong magnetic fields of about 60 μT. Comparing those results with regional paleointensity data, we estimate the age of the SE1 ridge to be younger than 0.5 ka or around 1.4 ka. The other ridge (SE2) exhibits different paleointensity for two samples obtained from different localities, implying that the ridge consists of multiple eruptions. These results demonstrate that paleomagnetism can improve the dating of submarine volcanic rocks.

Graphical Abstract
Prognostic PET [11C]-acetate uptake is associated with hypoxia gene expression in patients with late-stage hepatocellular carcinoma – a bench to bed study
Authors: Chiu Keith Wan Hang , Tan Kel Vin , Yang Xinxiang , Zhu Xiaoqiang , Shi Jingjing , Chiang Chi-Leung , Chan Lawrence , Hui Yuan , Khong Pek-Lan , Man Kwan , Wong Jason Wing Hon
Published: March 2024

Background

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with combined [18F]-FDG and [11C]-acetate (dual-tracer) is used for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, although its prognostic value and underlying molecular mechanism remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that radiotracer uptake might be associated with tumor hypoxia and validated our findings in public and local human HCC cohorts.

Methods

Twelve orthotopic HCC xenografts were established using MHCC97L cells in female nude mice, with 5 having undergone hepatic artery ligation (HAL) to create tumor hypoxia in vivo. Tumors in both Control and HAL-treated xenografts were imaged with [11C]-acetate and [18F]-FDG PET-MR and RNA sequencing was performed on the resected tumors. Semiquantitative analysis of PET findings was then performed, and the findings were then validated on the Cancer Genome Atlas Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (TCGA-LIHC) cohort and patients from our institution.

Results

HAL-treated mice showed lower [11C]-acetate (HAL-treated vs. Control, tumor-to-liver SUV ratio (SUVTLR): 2.14[2.05–2.21] vs 3.11[2.75–5.43], p = 0.02) but not [18F]-FDG (HAL-treated vs. Control, SUVTLR: 3.73[3.12–4.35] vs 3.86[3.7–5.29], p = 0.83) tumor uptakes. Gene expression analysis showed the PET phenotype is associated with upregulation of hallmark hypoxia signature. The prognostic value of the hypoxia gene signature was tested on the TCGA-LIHC cohort with upregulation of hypoxia gene signature associated with poorer overall survival (OS) in late-stage (stage III and IV) HCC patients (n = 66, OS 2.05 vs 1.67 years, p = 0.046). Using a local cohort of late-stage HCC patients who underwent dual-tracer PET-CT, tumors without [11C]-acetate uptake are associated with poorer prognosis (n = 51, OS 0.25 versus 1.21 years, p < 0.0001) and multivariable analyses showed [11C]-acetate tumor uptake as an independent predictor of OS (HR 0.17 95%C 0.06–0.42, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

[11C]-acetate uptake is associated with alteration of tumor hypoxia gene expression and poorer prognosis in patients with advanced HCC.