bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strawberry notch homolog 2 regulates the response to interleukin-6 in the central nervous system
Authors: Syme Taylor E. , Grill Magdalena , Hayashida Emina , Viengkhou Barney , Campbell Iain L. , Hofer Markus J.
Published: May 2022

Background

The cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) modulates a variety of inflammatory processes and, context depending, can mediate either pro- or anti-inflammatory effects. Excessive IL-6 signalling in the brain is associated with chronic inflammation resulting in neurodegeneration. Strawberry notch homolog 2 (Sbno2) is an IL-6-regulated gene whose function is largely unknown. Here we aimed to address this issue by investigating the impact ofSbno2disruption in mice with IL-6-mediated neuroinflammation.

Methods

Mice with germline disruption ofSbno2(Sbno2−/−) were generated and crossed with transgenic mice with chronic astrocyte production of IL-6 (GFAP-IL6). Phenotypic, molecular and transcriptomic analyses were performed on tissues and primary cell cultures to clarify the role of SBNO2 in IL-6-mediated neuroinflammation.

Results

We foundSbno2−/−mice to be viable and overtly normal. By contrast GFAP-IL6 ×Sbno2−/−mice had more severe disease compared with GFAP-IL6 mice. This was evidenced by exacerbated neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration and enhanced IL-6-responsive gene expression. Cell culture experiments on primary astrocytes fromSbno2−/−mice further showed elevated and sustained transcript levels of a number of IL-6 stimulated genes. Notably, despite enhanced disease in vivo and gene expression both in vivo and in vitro, IL-6-stimulated gp130 pathway activation was reduced whenSbno2is disrupted.

Conclusion

Based on these results, we propose a role for SBNO2 as a novel negative feedback regulator of IL-6 that restrains the excessive inflammatory actions of this cytokine in the brain.
Melatonin, an endogenous hormone, modulates Th17 cells via the reactive-oxygen species/TXNIP/HIF-1α axis to alleviate autoimmune uveitis
Authors: Huang Jun , Li Zhuang , Hu Yunwei , Li Zuoyi , Xie Yanyan , Huang Haixiang , Chen Qian , Chen Guanyu , Zhu Wenjie , Chen Yuxi , Su Wenru , Chen Xiaoqing , Liang Dan
Published: May 2022

Background

Melatonin, an indoleamine produced by the pineal gland, plays a pivotal role in maintaining circadian rhythm homeostasis. Recently, the strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of melatonin have attracted attention of researchers. We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of melatonin in experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), which is a representative animal model of human autoimmune uveitis.

Methods

EAU was induced in mice via immunization with the peptide interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein 1–20 (IRBP1–20). Melatonin was then administered via intraperitoneal injection to induce protection against EAU. With EAU induction for 14 days, clinical and histopathological scores were graded to evaluate the disease progression. T lymphocytes accumulation and the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the retinas were assessed via flow cytometry and RT-PCR, respectively. T helper 1 (Th1), T helper 17 (Th17), and regulatory T (Treg) cells were detected via flow cytometry for both in vivo and in vitro experiments. Reactive-oxygen species (ROS) from CD4 + T cells was tested via flow cytometry. The expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) proteins were quantified via western blot.

Results

Melatonin treatment resulted in notable attenuation of ocular inflammation in EAU mice, evidenced by decreasing optic disc edema, few signs of retinal vasculitis, and minimal retinal and choroidal infiltrates. Mechanistic studies revealed that melatonin restricted the proliferation of peripheral Th1 and Th17 cells by suppressing their transcription factors and potentiated Treg cells. In vitro studies corroborated that melatonin restrained the polarization of retina-specific T cells towards Th17 and Th1 cells in addition to enhancing the proportion of Treg cells. Pretreatment of retina-specific T cells with melatonin failed to induce EAU in naïve recipients. Furthermore, the ROS/ TXNIP/ HIF-1α pathway was shown to mediate the therapeutic effect of melatonin in EAU.

Conclusions

Melatonin regulates autoimmune T cells by restraining effector T cells and facilitating Treg generation, indicating that melatonin could be a hopeful treatment alternative for autoimmune uveitis.
Thrombin acts as inducer of proinflammatory macrophage migration inhibitory factor in astrocytes following rat spinal cord injury
Authors: Yang Ting , Jiang Haiyan , Luo Xinye , Hou Yuxuan , Li Aicheng , He Bingqiang , Zhang Xingyuan , Hao Huifei , Song Honghua , Cai Rixin , Wang Xudong , Wang Yingjie , Yao Chun , Qi Lei , Wang Yongjun
Published: May 2022

Background

The danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are critical contributors to the progressive neuropathology and thereafter affect the functional outcomes following spinal cord injury (SCI). Up to now, the regulatory mechanisms on their inducible production from the living cells remain elusive, aside from their passive release from the necrotic cells. Thrombin is immediately activated by the damaged or stressed central nervous system (CNS), which potently mediates inflammatory astrocytic responses through proteolytic cleavage of protease-activated receptors (PARs). Therefore, SCI-activated thrombin is conceived to induce the production of DAMPs from astrocytes at lesion site.

Methods

Rat SCI model was established by the cord contusion at T8–T10. The expression of thrombin and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) was determined by ELISA and Western blot. The PAR1, PAR3, and PAR4 receptors of thrombin were examined by PCR and immunohistochemistry. Primary astrocytes were isolated and purified from the spinal cord, followed by stimulation with different concentrations of thrombin either for transcriptome sequencing or for analysis of thrombin-mediated expression of MIF and related signal pathways in the presence or absence of various inhibitors. The post-injury locomotor functions were assessed using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor scale.

Results

MIF protein levels were significantly elevated in parallel with those of thrombin induced by SCI. Immunostaining demonstrated that PAR1 receptor, together with MIF, was abundantly expressed in astrocytes. By transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatical analysis of thrombin-stimulated primary astrocytes, MIF was identified to be dynamically regulated by the serine protease. Investigation of the underlying mechanism using various inhibitors revealed that thrombin-activated PAR1 was responsible for the MIF production of astrocytes through modulation of JNK/NFκB pathway. Administration of PAR1 inhibitor at lesion sites following SCI significantly reduced the protein levels of MIF and ameliorated functional deficits of rat locomotion.

Conclusion

SCI-activated thrombin is a robust inducer of MIF production from astrocytes. Exploring the roles of thrombin in promoting the production of DAMPs from astrocytes at lesion site will provide an alternative strategy for the clinical therapy of CNS inflammation.
Stability of enveloped and nonenveloped viruses in hydrolyzed gelatin liquid formulation
Authors: Kadji Francois Marie Ngako , Kotani Kazuki , Tsukamoto Hiroshi , Hiraoka Yosuke , Hagiwara Katsuro
Published: May 2022

Background

The thermal stability of viruses in gelatin liquid formulations for medical research and application is poorly understood and this study aimed to examine the thermal stability of 4 enveloped and nonenveloped DNA and RNA viruses in hydrolyzed gelatin liquid formulations.

Methods

Bovine herpesvirus (BHV) was used as a model virus to examine the molecular weight (MW), concentration and gelatin type and to optimize virus stability in liquid formulations at 25 °C and 4 °C. Using the model virus liquid formulation, the stability of multiple enveloped and nonenveloped RNA and DNA viruses, including parainfluenza virus, reovirus (RV), BHV, and adenovirus (AdV), was monitored over up to a 30-week storage period.

Results

The BHV model virus was considered stable after 3 weeks in hydrolyzed gelatin (MW: 4000) with a 0.8 LRV (log10 reduction value) at 25 °C or a 0.2 LRV at 4 °C, compared to the stabilities observed in higher MW gelatin (60,000 and 160,000) with an LRV above 1. Based on the gelatin type, BHV in alkaline-treated hydrolyzed gelatin samples were unexpectantly more stable than in acid-treated hydrolyzed gelatin sample. All four viruses exhibited stability at 4 °C for at least 8 weeks, BHV or AdV remained stable for over 30 weeks of storage, and at 25 °C, AdV and RV remained stable for 8 weeks.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that 5% of 4000 MW hydrolyzed gelatin formulation can act as a relevant stabilizer for the thermal stability of viruses in medical research and application.
Breastfeeding, nutrition and type 1 diabetes: a case-control study in Izmir, Turkey
Authors: Çiçekli İpek , Durusoy Raika
Published: May 2022

Background

The relationship between infant breastfeeding and type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) is unclear but it has been suggested that there may be a link between many environmental factors, including dietary antigens affecting diabetes epidemiology.

The main objective of this study is to investigate nutritional risk factors, especially breastfeeding early in life that may be associated with the development of type 1 DM and to determine the relationship these factors have with the disease.

Methods

This research is a case-control study and was carried out in Ege University Children’s Hospital in İzmir, Turkey between 13 January 2020 and 5 March 2020. A total of 246 children aged between 4 and 14 years were included in the study. The case group consisted of patients diagnosed with type 1 DM followed-up by Ege University Children’s Hospital’s Endocrinology Unit and the control group included non-diabetic children attending the same hospital’s General Pediatric Outpatient Clinic. A structured questionnaire was created by the researchers after reviewing the literature related to nutritional and other risk factors for type 1 DM. The questionnaire was administered by interviewing the parents and it was related to the child, mother and family of the child. In this study, breastfeeding duration was defined as the total duration of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding meant that the child received only breast milk from the mother.

Results

The mean age at diagnosis was 6.30 ± 4.03 years for cases and 7.48 ± 2.56 years for controls. We found that each monthly increase in exclusive breastfeeding duration provided a 0.83-fold (95% CI 0.72, 0.96) decrease in the risk of type 1 DM. Introduction of cereals in the diet at the sixth month or earlier was associated with a 2.58-fold (95% CI 1.29, 5.16) increased risk.

Conclusions

Determining the contribution of exclusive breastfeeding to the disease is important in establishing preventive policies. A longer duration of exclusive breastfeeding may be an important role in preventing the disease. This free intervention that truly works will be cost-effective. Future studies are needed to clarify the role of both exclusive and non-exclusive breastfeeding on the development of type 1 DM.
Prevalence of iodine deficiency among Moroccan women of reproductive age
Authors: Rami Anass , Saeid Naima , El Mzibri Mohammed , El Kari Khalid , Idrissi Mohamed , Lahmam Houria , Mouzouni Fatima Zahra , Mounach Samir , El Ammari Laila , Benkirane Hasnae , Al Jawaldeh Ayoub , Zimmermann Micheal Bruce , Aguenaou Hassan
Published: May 2022

Background

Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) affects nearly 1.9 million people worldwide. Iodine deficiency (ID) remains a public health concern not only for pregnant women, but for women of reproductive age (WRA) as well. This study was planned to evaluate the iodine status and the prevalence of iodine deficiency in a nationally representative sample of Moroccan WRA according to their socio-economic data and living areas.

Methods

This study is a cross-sectional national survey conducted on 1652 WRA aged between 18 and 49 years. Iodine status was assessed by the evaluation of the urinary iodine concentration (UIC) on spot urinary samples, using the Sandell-Kolthoff reaction, and by the estimation of iodine-rich food consumption, using a food frequency questionnaire. The World Health Organization cutoff of a median UIC of < 100 μg/l was used to define ID in the population.

Results

The median UIC [20th- 80th] was 71.3 μg/l [37.5–123.1] and 71% of participants had UIC < 100 μg/L, indicating insufficient iodine status and mild iodine deficiency. WRA from urban and rural areas showed an UIC median of 75.94 μg/l [41.16–129.97] and 63.40 μg/l [33.81–111.68], respectively. Furthermore, ID prevalence was significantly higher in rural areas (75.6%) as compared to urban areas (67.9%) (p < 0.05). Food frequency questionnaires analyses highlighted that dairy products are the most commonly consumed iodine-rich food, reported to be consumed daily by 43.1% of WRA. Of particular interest, 83.5% of WRA reported a weekly consumption of fish.

Conclusion

ID is still a public health problem in Morocco highlighting the necessity to implement effective national program, including efficient salt iodization, effective nutritional education and awareness, to control iodine deficiency and prevent IDD development.
The HSP90 inhibitor KW-2478 depletes the malignancy of BCR/ABL and overcomes the imatinib-resistance caused by BCR/ABL amplification
Authors: Zeng Dachuan , Gao Miao , Zheng Renren , Qin Run , He Wei , Liu Suotian , Wei Wei , Huang Zhenglan
Published: May 2022

Background

With the widespread clinical application of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), an increasing number of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) patients have developed resistance or intolerance to TKIs. BCR/ABL is the oncoprotein of CML. HSP90 is an essential chaperone of BCR/ABL and plays an important role in protein folding and the function of BCR/ABL. Therefore, inhibiting the chaperone function of HSP90 may be an effective strategy for CML treatment and to overcome TKI resistance.

Methods

The effect of KW-2478 on CML cell viability, apoptosis and cell cycle progression was detected by CCK-8 assay or flow cytometry. The levels of BCR/ABL, HSP90 and other signalling proteins were detected by western blots. The mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by flow cytometry combined with JC-1 staining. The interaction between BCR/ABL and HSP90α was detected by coimmunoprecipitation. The effect of KW-2478 on BCR/ABL carcinogenesis in vivo was investigated in CML-like mouse models.

Results

KW-2478 inhibited growth and induced apoptosis of CML cells. KW-2478 inhibited the chaperone function of HSP90α and then weakened the BCR/ABL and MAPK signalling pathways. This treatment also caused an increase in p27 and p21 expression and a decrease in cyclin B1 expression, which led to G2/M phase arrest. The mitochondrial pathway was primarily responsible for KW-2478-induced apoptosis. KW-2478 had a synergistic effect with imatinib in growth inhibition. Notably, KW-2478 had a stronger effect on growth inhibition, apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest of K562/G01 cells than K562 cells. KW-2478 could effectively prolong the mouse lifespan and alleviate disease symptoms in CML-like mouse models.

Conclusions

This finding demonstrated that KW-2478 had anticancer properties in imatinib-sensitive and imatinib-resistant CML cells and illustrated the possible mechanisms. This study provides an alternative choice for CML treatment, especially for TKI-resistant patients with BCR/ABL amplification and TKI-intolerant patients.
Redevelopment of mental health first aid guidelines for supporting someone experiencing a panic attack: a Delphi study
Authors: Chalmers Kathryn J. , Rossetto Alyssia , Reavley Nicola J. , Jorm Anthony F. , Kitchener Betty A. , Kelly Claire M. , Morgan Amy J. , Bond Kathy S. , Cottrill Fairlie A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Panic attacks and panic disorder can have a major impact on the mental health and wellbeing of those who experience them. People with recurrent panic attacks have increased odds of developing a mental disorder and of worsening the course of existing mental disorders. Early intervention efforts at the time that a panic attack occurs might reduce or prevent some of these associated negative outcomes. Expert consensus guidelines for high income Western countries on how to provide mental health first aid for panic attacks were published in 2009. The present study aims to redevelop these guidelines to ensure content reflects current evidence and best practice.

Methods

The Delphi consensus method was used to determine which helping strategies should be included in the redeveloped guidelines. A survey with items on how to assist someone who is having a panic attack was developed using the 2009 guidelines and a systematic search of grey and academic literature. Panellists with lived experience and professional experience rated these items to determine which helping statements should be included in the guidelines.

Results

Thirty panellists completed all three surveys. Panellists rated 158 statements, with 83 statements meeting the criteria for inclusion in the redeveloped guidelines. The endorsed statements covered: what the first aider should know about panic attacks, what they should do if they think someone is having a panic attack, what they should do if they are uncertain whether the person is having a panic attack, what they should say and do if they know the person is having a panic attack and what they should do when the panic attack has ended.

Conclusion

This study has resulted in a more comprehensive set of guidelines than the original version, with the endorsement of 83 helping actions, compared to 27 previously. The redeveloped guidelines provide greater detail on recognising the signs of a panic attack, providing initial assistance, communicating with someone experiencing a panic attack and supporting them to seek appropriate professional help if it is needed. ﻿The guidelines will be used in future updates of Mental Health First Aid training courses.
“Be perfect in every respect”: the mediating role of career adaptability in the relationship between perfectionism and career decision-making difficulties of college students
Authors: Chen Huaruo , Pang Liman , Liu Fei , Fang Tingting , Wen Ya
Published: May 2022

Background

Considering the weakening of the economy and the shrinkage of jobs under the current global epidemic crisis, the employment of college graduates is facing unprecedented and cruel competition. However, many college students lack a reasonable understanding and orientation of themselves, which leads to them having high expectations for future careers and not considering whether they are competent or not. Due to a lack of ability and self-confidence, they appear to be at a loss and hesitant when facing career choices. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between perfectionism, career adaptability and career decision-making difficulties from both positive and negative aspects.

Methods

We sampled 400 college students in China and used a questionnaire to obtain cross-sectional data through the Perfectionism, Career Adaptability, and Career Decision Difficulties scales. This study explored the relationship between them using statistical analysis software such as SPSS and AMOS through the results of correlation analysis and mediating role analysis.

Results

College students’ perfectionism, career adaptability, and career decision-making difficulties were significantly correlated (p < 0.01). Positive perfectionism has a negative predictive effect on career decision-making difficulties, and career adaptability plays a completely mediating role in it (the direct effect is −0.032, the mediation effect is −0.244, and the total effect is −0.276.). Negative perfectionism plays a positive predictive role in career decision-making difficulties, and career adaptability plays a part in mediating roles (the direct effect is 0.334, the mediating effect is 0.099, and the total effect is 0.433.).

Conclusions

College students will more or less pursue “perfect”, but often with their own preferences to pursue, cannot be done based on the rational analysis of things to pursue perfect. College students have higher positive perfectionism and negative perfectionism, and their career adaptability is also at a higher level, but there is a higher degree of career decision-making difficulties. Positive perfectionism of college students can reduce the difficulty of career decision-making, and career adaptability plays a completely mediating role in it. Negative perfectionism of college students will lead to difficulties in career decision-making, in which career adaptability plays a mediating role.
Activated Drp1 regulates p62-mediated autophagic flux and aggravates inflammation in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion via the ROS-RIP1/RIP3-exosome axis
Authors: Zeng Xue , Zhang Yun-Dong , Ma Rui-Yan , Chen Yuan-Jing , Xiang Xin-Ming , Hou Dong-Yao , Li Xue-Han , Huang He , Li Tao , Duan Chen-Yang
Published: May 2022

Background

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) refers to a secondary brain injury that can occur when the blood supply to the ischemic brain tissue is restored. However, the mechanism underlying such injury remains elusive.

Methods

The 150 male C57 mice underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 1 h and reperfusion for 24 h, Among them, 50 MCAO mice were further treated with Mitochondrial division inhibitor 1 (Mdivi-1) and 50 MCAO mice were further treated with N-acetylcysteine (NAC). SH-SY5Y cells were cultured in a low-glucose culture medium for 4 h under hypoxic conditions and then transferred to normal conditions for 12 h. Then, cerebral blood flow, mitochondrial structure, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number, intracellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), autophagic flux, aggresome and exosome expression profiles, cardiac tissue structure, mitochondrial length and cristae density, mtDNA and ROS content, as well as the expression of Drp1-Ser616/Drp1, RIP1/RIP3, LC3 II/LC3 I, TNF-α, IL-1β, etc., were detected under normal or Drp1 interference conditions.

Results

The mtDNA content, ROS levels, and Drp1-Ser616/Drp1 were elevated by 2.2, 1.7 and 2.7 times after CIRI (P < 0.05). However, the high cytoplasmic LC3 II/I ratio and increased aggregation of p62 could be reversed by 44% and 88% by Drp1 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) (P < 0.05). The low fluorescence intensity of autophagic flux and the increased phosphorylation of RIP3 induced by CIRI could be attenuated by ROS scavenger, NAC (P < 0.05). RIP1/RIP3 inhibitor Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1) restored 75% to a low LC3 II/LC3 I ratio and enhanced 2 times to a high RFP-LC3 after Drp1 activation (P < 0.05). In addition, although CIRI-induced ROS production caused no considerable accumulation of autophagosomes (P > 0.05), it increased the packaging and extracellular secretion of exosomes containing p62 by 4 – 5 times, which could be decreased by Mdivi-1, Drp1 shRNA, and Nec-1 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, TNF-α and IL-1β increased in CIRI-derived exosomes could increase RIP3 phosphorylation in normal or oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) conditions (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

CIRI activated Drp1 and accelerated the p62-mediated formation of autophagosomes while inhibiting the transition of autophagosomes to autolysosomes via the RIP1/RIP3 pathway activation. Undegraded autophagosomes were secreted extracellularly in the form of exosomes, leading to inflammatory cascades that further damaged mitochondria, resulting in excessive ROS generation and the blockage of autophagosome degradation, triggering a vicious cycle.
Coexisting good neighbours: acoustic and calling microhabitat niche partitioning in two elusive syntopic species of balloon frogs, Uperodon systoma and U. globulosus (Anura: Microhylidae) and potential of individual vocal signatures
Authors: Prasad Vishal Kumar , Chuang Ming-Feng , Das Abhijit , Ramesh K. , Yi Yoonjung , Dinesh K. P. , Borzée Amaël
Published: May 2022

Background

Most amphibians use a repertoire of acoustic signals to propagate signals in social contexts. The description of these repertoires provides a key towards the understanding of the behaviour of individuals and the evolutionary functions of calls. Here, we assessed the variations in advertisement calls within and between two fossorial sympatric species, Uperodon systoma and Uperodon globulosus, that share their breeding season and breeding sites. For each species, we applied Beecher’s index of total information capacity (HS) for the individual vocal signature, determined the difference in call properties and demonstrated the segregation in the calling microhabitat niche between the two species.

Results

Our results demonstrated that the advertisement calls of U. systoma are pulsatile with a call rate of 3.00 ± 0.97 calls per second while those of U. globulosus are not pulsatile with a lower call rate of 0.53 ± 0.22 calls per second. For both species, the variations in call properties among individuals was higher than that within individual, a pattern consistent with that of other fossorial anurans. The body condition and air temperature did not significantly impact the call properties of either species. The outcome of the Beecher’s index (HS) showed that the calls of U. systoma can be used to identify 14 different individuals and the calls of U. globulosus can be used to identify 26 different individuals. The statistical analyses on the advertisement call of the two species showed a significant difference in the temporal properties as the call duration, and fall time and rise time were significantly different between the two species. Lastly, we successfully demonstrated that there is a clear segregation in calling site microhabitat between the two species, where U. globulosus calls floating close to the bank of the waterbody while U. systoma calls floating further away from the bank.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential for pre-mating isolation, character displacement and assortative mating in two syntopic fossorial anurans, leading to association between acoustic, calling microhabitat niche and body index divergence as important behavioural and ecological traits.
Biological control potential of local entomopathogenic nematodes against the different stage larvae of cotton leafworm Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Yağcı Mürşide , Yücel Cenk , Erdoğuş F. Dolunay , Benk Gökhan , Kepenekci İlker
Published: May 2022

Background

The cotton leafworm,Spodoptera littoralis(Boisduval) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is an economic pest on various crops worldwide. Farmers generally used to apply chemical pesticides to control the pest. The bio-control potential of the entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) as alternatives to harmful synthetic pesticides was examined in this study. The study aimed to determine the efficacy of EPNs isolates against the different stages of larvae of the cotton leafwormS. littoralisand the effect of time on mortality rate under laboratory conditions.

Results

EPNs isolates were tested at 4 different concentrations (0, 250, 500 and 1000 IJs/ml) in 150 ml plastic containers on last instar larvae (sixth instar) ofS. litorallis. Experiments for third, fourth and fifth instar larvae ofS. litoralliswere carried out in petri dishes at different concentrations (0, 50, 100 and 200 IJs/ml) at 25 °C temperature. Mortality rates of larvae were calculated at 3 different times (48, 72, 96 h) after inoculation. The high mortality rate of last instar larvae (98.81%) ofS. littoraliswas caused bySteinernema feltiae(Tokat-Emir), followed byS. carpocapsae(Tokat-Bakışlı05) (95.24%) and thenH. bacteriophora(11 KG) with (90.47%) at the highest concentration (1000 IJ/ml). The highest mortality rate of fifth instar larvae was caused byS. feltiae(Tokat-Bakışlı05) andS. carpocapsae(Tokat-Emir) with (100%) and (92.12%). In addition, the highest mortality rate of the 4th instar larvae was determined S.feltiae(Tokat-Bakışlı05) and S.carpocapsae(Tokat-Emir) isolates (98.87%) and (97.74%), respectively. Additionally, the highest larval mortality rate in the third stage byS. feltiae(Tokat-Bakışlı05) andS. carpocapsae(Tokat-Emir) was (100%) and (97.74%) at the highest concentration. Mortality rates of larvae were calculated at 3 different times after inoculation. The highest mortality rate counted in all isolates was determined 96 and 72 h after inoculation of EPNs.

Conclusions

All indigenous EPN isolates were found to be effective at different rates againstS. littoralis. The results showed that these nematode species could be used againstS. littoralisbiological control programs.
Percutaneous debulking strategy for severe nodular calcification in common femoral artery
Authors: Nomura Tetsuya , Ota Issei , Tasaka Satoshi , Ono Kenshi , Sakaue Yu , Shoji Keisuke , Wada Naotoshi
Published: May 2022

Background

Despite marked progress in endovascular treatment (EVT) techniques and devices, calcified lesions remain one of the toughest obstacles to EVT success. Moreover, because the common femoral artery (CFA) is known as a “non-stenting zone,” endovascular strategies for this area are controversial.

Case presentation

Here we describe the technical tips for a novel, less invasive, and effective debulking strategy for severe nodular calcification using an endovascular maneuver. This technique was demonstrated in a 73-year-old man with severe calcified stenosis of the CFA. To complete a stent-less strategy for CFA, we conducted aggressive debulking of the nodular calcification, established a bidirectional approach from the radial artery and the superficial femoral artery (SFA), and inserted a balloon-guiding catheter in the SFA. Under distal protection provided by this catheter, we crushed the nodular calcification 43 times using myocardial biopsy forceps. After achieving a volume reduction of nodular calcification through this maneuver, we completed the procedure by inflating a 6-mm drug-coated balloon catheter. Final angiography demonstrated a reduced filling defect of the contrast medium in the CFA and favorable blood flow as far as the ankle. The puncture site on the SFA was closed with a vascular suture assisted by balloon inflation inside the vessel, which allowed the patient to be ambulatory immediately after the procedure without requiring bed rest.

Conclusions

Severely calcified lesions in the CFA are usually difficult to treat using an endovascular strategy, but our novel and less invasive method may become a promising technique for managing these lesions.
The assessment and management of pica in people with intellectual disability
Authors: Williams Fionnuala , Gibbs Susie , Addo Ama S.
Published: May 2022

Pica is a condition associated with a number of physical and mental health diagnoses. The potentially fatal consequences of pica and the links with significant physical health problems are not always recognised. Pica is like other forms of behaviour that can challenge: clinicians must seek the underlying cause and treat this first, before primarily pursuing a behavioural form of treatment. In this article, we discuss the associations, consequences, assessment and management options available for pica to guide professionals. Pica often presents in a way individual to the particular patient, so tailoring of assessment and treatment is important.
Effects of organic supplementation to reduced rates of chemical fertilization on soil fertility of Zanthoxylum armatum
Authors: Saba Tahseen , Liu Wanlin , Wang Jingyan , Saleem Fariha , Kang Xikun , Hui Wenkai , Gong Wei , Li Hebiao
Published: May 2022

Soil acidification, fertility depletion, food insecurity, and environmental pollution all are con­sequences of the extensive use of chemical fertilizers (CF) in intensively managed plantations. Recent studies have shown that incorporating organic manure (OM) to partially replace CF can help to maintain productivity and soil health. There are no reports on integrated fertilizer management of Zanthoxylum ar­matum, for optimal ecological services and economic profitability. A pot experiment with Z. armatum was performed to investigate the possibility of incorporating OM in reducing CF use, enhancing soil fertility, and increasing plant growth. For this, seven treatments were designed: NPK, PK, NP, NK, OM, MNPK (50%NPK+50%OM), and control (CK, no fertilizer application). The results showed that NPK application significantly (P < 0.05) increased plant growth, soil nitrate-N, ammonium-N and available K compared to CK. However conventional CF application induced soil acidification. OM application raised the soil pH from 5.50 (CK) to 6.58 and significantly enhanced soil fertility by increasing alkali-hydrolysable N (2.3 times), ammonium-N (1.4 times), available P (4.3 times), the activity of invertase (1.5 times), catalase (2.8 times), acid phosphatase (1.5 times), and count of soil culturable microbes (2.9 times) compared to CK. Conversely, sole OM application did not result in optimum plant growth. Integrating OM with NPK (MNPK), on the other hand, not only provided the highest growth comprehensive value (0.84), but also substantially higher soil fertility comprehensive value (0.71) than traditional CF treatments. Correlation analysis also indicated a positive and significant correlation between soil microbes, enzyme activities and available nutrients. Therefore, OM+NPK could be an optimum measure to get maximum benefits regard­ing soil fertility, growth of Z. armatum, fertilizer savings and sustainable agroecology.
Κόστος που αποδίδεται σε μικροβιαιμίες σχετιζόμενες με κεντρικό καθετήρα σε παιδιά
Authors: Καραγιαννίδου Σοφία
Published: May 2022

Εισαγωγή και σκοπός: Οι μικροβιαιμίες σχετιζόμενες με κεντρικό καθετήρα (CLABSIs) αποτελούν τις πιο συχνές Παιδιατρικές νοσοκομειακές λοιμώξεις και συνδέονται με υψηλή θνητότητα και υγειονομικό κόστος. Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης ήταν η εκτίμηση της διάρκειας νοσηλείας, του κόστους και της θνητότητας που αποδίδεται στις λοιμώξεις CLABSI στους Παιδιατρικούς ασθενείς στην Ελλάδα. Μέθοδοι: Πραγματοποιήθηκε αναδρομική μελέτη κοορτής στα δύο πανεπιστημιακά Παιδιατρικά νοσοκομεία της Αθήνας. Παιδιά και νεογνά που νοσηλεύτηκαν το χρονικό διάστημα Ιουνίου 2012 - Ιουνίου 2015 με κεντρική γραμμή στις Μονάδες Εντατικής Νοσηλείας Παίδων και Νεογνών, στα Παιδοογκολογικά τμήματα και στη Μονάδα Μεταμόσχευσης Μυελού των Οστών ήταν υποψήφια για εισαγωγή στη μελέτη. Οι ασθενείς με διάγνωση CLABSI εισήχθησαν στη μελέτη την ημέρα της διάγνωσης της λοίμωξης, και εξομοιώθηκαν (1:1) με ασθενείς χωρίς διάγνωση CLABSI (non- CLABSIs) βάσει του νοσοκομείου, του τμήματος νοσηλείας και της διάρκειας νοσηλείας πριν την είσοδο στη μελέτη (εισήχθησαν 188 παιδιά, 94 CLABSIs). Οι βασικές αποδιδόμενες εκβάσεις που μελετήθηκαν ήταν η διάρκεια νοσηλείας, το κόστος και η θνητότητα. Καταγράφηκαν επίσης βασικά δημογραφικά και κλινικά χαρακτηριστικά. Οι αποδιδόμενες εκβάσεις υπολογίστηκαν ως οι διαφορές των εκτιμήσεων των εκβάσεων μεταξύ CLABSIs και non-CLABSIs, μετά από προσαρμογή για ένα σκορ βαρύτητας νόσου (propensity score) και για πιθανούς συγχυτικούς παράγοντες.Αποτελέσματα: Τα βασικά χαρακτηριστικά δεν διέφεραν μεταξύ των δύο ομάδων. Μετά από προσαρμογή για την ηλικία, το φύλο, τα χαρακτηριστικά εξομοίωσης, τη διαχείριση της κεντρικής γραμμής μετά την εισαγωγή στη μελέτη, και το σκορ βαρύτητας, η μέση διάρκεια νοσηλείας και το μέσο κόστος ήταν 57,5 ημέρες και €31.302 στα CLABSIs έναντι 36,6 ημερών και €17.788 στα non-CLABSIs. Συνολικά, η λοίμωξη CLABSI συσχετίστηκε με μέση (95% CI) προσαρμοσμένη αποδιδόμενη διάρκεια νοσηλείας και κόστος της τάξης των 21 ημερών (7,3 – 34,8) και €13.727 (5.758 – 21.695), αντίστοιχα. Δεν ανιχνεύτηκε στατιστικά σημαντική διαφορά στη διάρκεια νοσηλείας και στο κόστος ανά τμήμα νοσηλείας. Κατά την περίοδο της μελέτης, κατέληξαν 22 CLABSIs και 9 non-CLABSIs (23,4% έναντι 9,6% αντίστοιχα, p=0,011), με μια αποδιδόμενη θνητότητα 13,8% (95% CI: 3,4% - 24,3%). Κατόπιν πολλαπλής λογαριθμικής παλινδρόμησης, τα CLABSIs ήταν 4 φορές πιο πιθανό να καταλήξουν (OR=4,29, 95%CI=1,28% - 14,36%, p=0,018).Συμπεράσματα: Η λοίμωξη CLABSI βρέθηκε ότι αυξάνει τα ποσοστά θνητότητας στα νοσηλευόμενα παιδιά και νεογνά στην Ελλάδα, ενώ παράλληλα προκαλεί σημαντικό οικονομικό φορτίο, υπογραμμίζοντας την ανάγκη για την εφαρμογή στρατηγικών πρόληψης.
From head to rootlet: comparative transcriptomic analysis of a rhizocephalan barnacle Peltogaster reticulata (Crustacea: Rhizocephala)
Authors: Nesterenko Maksim , Miroliubov Aleksei
Published: May 2022

Background: Rhizocephalan barnacles stand out in the diverse world of metazoan parasites. The body of a rhizocephalan female is modified beyond revealing any recognizable morphological features, consisting of the interna, the system of rootlets, and the externa, a sac-like reproductive body. Moreover, rhizocephalans have an outstanding ability to control their hosts, literally turning them into “zombies”. Despite all these amazing traits, there is no genomic and transcriptomic data about any Rhizocephala.

Methods: We collected transcriptomes from four body parts of an adult female rhizocephalan Peltogaster reticulata: externa and main, growing, and thoracic parts of the interna. We used all prepared data for the de novo assembly of the reference transcriptome. Next, a set of encoded proteins was determined, the expression levels of protein-coding genes in different parts of the parasite body were calculated and lists of enriched bioprocesses were identified. We also in silico identified and analyzed sets of potential excretory / secretory proteins. Finally, we applied phylostratigraphy and evolutionary transcriptomics approaches to our data. 

Results: The assembled reference transcriptome included transcripts of 12,620 protein-coding genes and was the first for both P. reticulata and Rhizocephala. Based on the results obtained, the spatial heterogeneity of protein-coding genes expression in different regions of P. reticulata adult female body was established. The results of both transcriptomic analysis and histological studies indicated the presence of germ-like cells in the lumen of the interna. The potential molecular basis of the interaction between the nervous system of the host and the parasite's interna was also determined. Given the prolonged expression of development-associated genes, we suggest that rhizocephalans “got stuck in the metamorphosis”, even in their reproductive stage.

Conclusions: The results of the first comparative transcriptomic analysis for Rhizocephala not only clarified but also expanded the existing ideas about the biology of this amazing parasites.
Color translation from monoscopic photogrammetry +ID Methodology into a Polyjet final 3D printed facial prosthesis.
Authors: Salazar-Gamarra Rodrigo , Cárdenas-Bocanegra Andrés , Masch Uri , Da Costa Moraes Cícero André , Seelaus Rosemary , Lopes Da Silva Jorge Vicente , Lauria Dib Luciano
Published: May 2022

Background: The artistic techniques necessary to fabricate facial prostheses mainly depend on individual skill and are not a resource easily reproduced. Digital technology has contributed to improved outcomes, often combining analog and new digital techniques in the same workflow.

Methods: This article aims to present an innovative workflow to produce a final colored 3D printed and facial prosthesis by UV-map color translation into colored resin 3D printing. A modified +ID Methodology was used to obtain 3D models with the calibrated 3D printable patient’s skin color. No hands-on physical molding, manual sculpture, or intrinsic silicone coloration was used.

Results: The outcome resulted in acceptable aesthetics, adaptation, and an approximate color match after extrinsic coloration. The patient reported good comfort and acceptance.

Conclusions: A direct resin 3D printed prosthesis may be a viable alternative, especially for rapid delivery as an immediate prosthesis or an option when there is no experienced anaplastogist to manufacture a conventional prosthesis.
COVID – 19 and psychiatry teaching during the outbreak of the pandemic at the Eduardo Mondlane Medical School
Authors: Pedro Maria Salomão , Palha Antonio , Ferreira Maria
Published: May 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic had a considerable impact on the lives of the world's population, which led to the closure of educational institutions including in Mozambique.  In March 2020, the state emergency forced students and professors to change in-person classes to online learning because of the pandemic.  

Objectives: To access students’ capacities in terms of technological resources to participate in the 5th-year online classes of the Eduardo Mondlane University Medical School and the difficulties they encountered throughout the year. Additionally, psychological symptoms associated with confinement and how that affected participation in psychiatry and mental health classes were assessed.  

Methods: A cross sectional social online questionnaire survey was conducted among 32 students enrolled in the 5th-year psychiatry and mental health classes of the Eduardo Mondlane University Medical School during May and June 2021.  

Results: A total of 47 students were invited to participate in this survey, of which 32 students (68%) participated. Of the participants, 16.7% reported the presence of psychological symptoms associated with confinement. All students could participate in online classes using cell phones, computers, and tablets. However, 34.4% did not have a laptop.  In this study, 87.5% of the respondents reported poor internet quality, and 12.5% ​​of students did not have internet and had to join colleagues to participate in classes and to interact with the members of their groups. Most of the students (90.6%) were not prepared or knew how to use google classroom, Skype, and Zoom, before the lockdowns.  

Conclusions: The study suggests that the abrupt and radical change from in-person teaching and learning methods to remote online methods showed the weaknesses of students in terms of resources (computers, tablets, internet) and knowledge for the implementation of online classes. Psychological symptoms were present but did not affect student participation in remote psychiatry and mental health classes.
Virtual medical education accreditation survey visits and viability for the future
Authors: DeShetler Lori M.
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) drastically disrupted daily life and abruptly forced curricular modifications in undergraduate medical education. Despite level of preparedness, medical schools moved instruction online for students to access remotely. Similarly, accreditation visits by the Liaison Committee for Medical Education (LCME) were also moved from in-person to virtual formats during these chaotic times. Little guidance was available to transition to the new process. Medical schools that were scheduled for a virtual survey visit were required to pivot without tried experience on how to prepare for and conduct these high stakes online visits. New processes needed to be developed to successfully navigate a virtual accreditation visit. To date, there has been nothing in the literature from those who have participated on LCME teams nor from medical schools who have undergone a virtual survey visit. This article accounts for one medical school’s experience from its 2021 LCME virtual visit and makes recommendations to consider when planning for such a significant event. The future of virtual visits is taken into account as this method has its benefits including elimination of travel and the associated time and cost. Yet, the perspectives from others who have participated in a virtual LCME accreditation visit should be studied. While the LCME will return to in-person visits in 2022-23, it is important for medical schools to share their experiences and lessons learned from their virtual accreditation visit should the need arise to reinstate virtual visits in the future.
Microscopy is better in color: development of a streamlined spectral light path for real-time multiplex fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Browning Craig M. , Mayes Samantha , Mayes Samuel A. , Rich Thomas C. , Leavesley Silas J.
Published: May 2022

Spectroscopic image data has provided molecular discrimination for numerous fields including: remote sensing, food safety and biomedical imaging. Despite the various technologies for acquiring spectral data, there remains a trade-off when acquiring data. Typically, spectral imaging either requires long acquisition times to collect an image stack with high spectral specificity or acquisition times are shortened at the expense of fewer spectral bands or reduced spatial sampling. Hence, new spectral imaging microscope platforms are needed to help mitigate these limitations. Fluorescence excitation-scanning spectral imaging is one such new technology, which allows more of the emitted signal to be detected than comparable emission-scanning spectral imaging systems. Here, we have developed a new optical geometry that provides spectral illumination for use in excitation-scanning spectral imaging microscope systems. This was accomplished using a wavelength-specific LED array to acquire spectral image data. Feasibility of the LED-based spectral illuminator was evaluated through simulation and benchtop testing and assessment of imaging performance when integrated with a widefield fluorescence microscope. Ray tracing simulations (TracePro) were used to determine optimal optical component selection and geometry. Spectral imaging feasibility was evaluated using a series of 6-label fluorescent slides. The LED-based system response was compared to a previously tested thin-film tunable filter (TFTF)-based system. Spectral unmixing successfully discriminated all fluorescent components in spectral image data acquired from both the LED and TFTF systems. Therefore, the LED-based spectral illuminator provided spectral image data sets with comparable information content so as to allow identification of each fluorescent component. These results provide proof-of-principle demonstration of the ability to combine output from many discrete wavelength LED sources using a double-mirror (Cassegrain style) optical configuration that can be further modified to allow for high speed, video-rate spectral image acquisition. Real-time spectral fluorescence microscopy would allow monitoring of rapid cell signaling processes (i.e., Ca2+ and other second messenger signaling) and has potential to be translated to clinical imaging platforms.
Laser vibrometer-rangefinder based on self-sweeping fiber laser
Authors: Volikova A. M. , Lobach I. A. , Kablukov S. I.
Published: May 2022

A vibrometer-rangefinder based on principles of coherent optical frequency-domain reflectometry (C-OFDR) is experimentally demonstrated. A self-sweeping ytterbium-doped fiber laser, which does not require any spectrally selective elements and drivers for wavelength tuning, with a sweeping range of 1056-1074 nm is used as a tunable source of probe radiation for the C-OFDR measurements. We demonstrate the possibility of measuring target vibrations in the frequency range from 2 Hz to 5 kHz with an amplitude of down to ∼5 nm at a distance of up to ∼13 m. The maximum measurable vibration frequency is limited by the instability of the self-sweeping laser parameters in the time domain and is estimated as ∼7.5 kHz.