bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gandhak Potash Blast: An Actual Sitting Over the Powder Keg—A Case Report
Authors: Kaushik Rahul , Sharma Luv , Jakhar Jitender Kumar , Jain Piyush , Singh Priti
Published: April 2024

An explosive is a container that is filled with material that will explode when it is thrown or dropped, or when a device inside it makes it explode. Many materials can be used in making up of a bomb individually or when mixed with some other chemical. The type of explosive that gets misused most commonly are those used in manufacturing and other commercial applications due to their easy accessibility to public. Improper handling and inattentive behavior toward the explosives can lead to disastrous circumstances. Here we report such a case in which a 30-year-old male took rocks of potassium sulphate (called Gandhak Potash in the local vernacular language) and struck them with a metallic pestle, which triggered an explosion. The distal phalanges of both hands were found traumatically amputated. Stippling effect due to unburnt powdered explosive substance were present over the head, face, chest, and anteromedial aspect of legs. He died within few hours after the blast. Different type of mechanical injuries and injuries to the internal organs can be sustained over the body due to effects of explosion as we’ve seen in our case, that is, abrasion, contusion, lacerations, fractures, burn injury and such pattern of injury, and specific injuries sustained due to pressure effect like blast lung along with circumstantial evidence helps in deciding the manner of death.
Knowledge-Building in Classroom: A Multimodal Semantic Wave Model
Authors: Zhao Qian , Zheng Zezhi
Published: April 2024

The generation of meaning in discourse is regarded as the process of knowledge-building, which can be analyzed by semantic waves. Combining the deep learning systems and polynomial fitting method, we present a method to compute multimodal semantic waves. With this method, four representative examples are discussed for the knowledge-building of Chinese, English, Mathematics and Science subjects in Chinese primary schools. From the multimodal semantic waves of these subjects, we can clearly observe the differences between the processes of knowledge-building. Besides, it is advantageous for the proposed method that the value of multimodal semantic waves at any given future time can be predicted by an nth-order polynomial, which may help to study practical classroom discourse.
Capacity for Self-Regulatory Vocabulary Learning and Learning Enjoyment: The Mediating Role of L2 Vocabulary Selves
Authors: Le Duyen Thi
Published: April 2024

Second language (L2) enjoyment has gained recent interest, but little research has attended to the sources of L2 vocabulary learning enjoyment. Drawing on the regulatory focus theory and the assumption that advancing toward a goal can contribute greatly to learning enjoyment, this study examined the extent L2 vocabulary selves and capacity for self-regulatory vocabulary learning are related to vocabulary learning enjoyment. A questionnaire was administered to two cohorts of 897 low-intermediate university students at two different times: one in the middle of a summer semester and the other in the following semester. The ages of the students were in the 17 to 24 range ( M = 18.84, SD = 0.79). Hierarchical regression, dominance, relative weight, and Boruta random forest analyses revealed that capacity for self-regulatory vocabulary learning was the most important predictor of L2 vocabulary enjoyment, followed by ideal L2 vocabulary self/own. Mediation analyses showed that capacity for self-regulatory vocabulary learning had a direct effect on L2 vocabulary learning enjoyment, and ideal L2 vocabulary self had a stronger mediating effect than ought L2 vocabulary self. The findings and implications were discussed.
Screening of Undiagnosed Increased Lateral Ankle Laxity Using Stress Ultrasonography
Authors: Yokoe Takuji , Tajima Takuya , Chosa Etsuo , Yamaguchi Nami , Morita Yudai
Published: April 2024

Background:

Some patients with lateral ankle sprain (LAS) will experience chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI). However, not all of those with residual increased lateral ankle laxity (ILAL) become symptomatic. There is a lack of evidence regarding the prevalence of undiagnosed ILAL in the general population.

Purpose:

To evaluate the prevalence of undiagnosed ILAL with the use of stress ultrasonography (US) and to investigate the percentage of ankle sprain copers (ASCs) with ILAL.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) lengths in college students without diagnosis of CLAI were measured consecutively in stress and nonstress positions. The ATFL ratio was calculated as an indicator of lateral ankle laxity according to a previously reported method. The manual anterior drawer test was also performed. The Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) and Ankle Instability Instrument (AII) were used to assess subjective impairments related to CLAI. The correlation between the ATFL ratio and CAIT score was evaluated.

Results:

A total of 207 ankles from 106 participants (mean age, 23.9 ± 2.2 years; male/female, 64/42) were included. Overall, 38 participants (35.8%; 50 ankles [24.2%]) were classified as having undiagnosed ILAL. Of the ankles with no history of LAS, 8% showed ILAL. Overall, 53 participants (50%) had a history of LAS and were all classified as ASCs. Of the 82 ankles from these ASCs, 40 (48.8%) were regarded as having undiagnosed ILAL. There was no correlation between the ATFL ratio and CAIT scores ( r = -0.09, P = .414).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of undiagnosed ILAL by stress US screening was approximately one-third in young adults. In this study, 48.8% of the ankles from ASCs showed ILAL.
Bone Density Distribution Pattern in the Lateral Wall of the Femoral Intercondylar Notch: Implications for the Direct Insertion of the Femoral ACL Attachment
Authors: Sugawara Yutaro , Iwasaki Koji , Suzuki Yuki , Hishimura Ryosuke , Matsubara Shinji , Matsuoka Masatake , Onodera Tomohiro , Kondo Eiji , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: April 2024

Background:

The ideal position of the femoral bone tunnel in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is controversial. The functional importance of the ACL fiber varies depending on where it is attached to the femur. Functionally important fibers can cause high mechanical stress on the bone, and the Wolff law predicts that bone mineral density will increase at high mechanical stress sites.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to use computed tomography imaging to determine the distribution pattern of bone density in the lateral intercondylar wall. It was hypothesized that the high-density area (HDA) of the lateral intercondylar wall would reflect the functional insertion of the ACL as reported in previous anatomic studies.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

Data from 39 knees without ACL injuries were retrospectively collected. The HDA of the lateral intercondylar wall was defined as the region containing the top 10% of the radiodensity values. The shape of the HDA was approximated as an ellipse, and the quadrant method was used to determine the center of the ellipse. The association between the ratio of the minor axis to the major axis of the ellipse and background characteristics was investigated.

Results:

According to the quadrant method, the center of the HDA ellipse was 33.6% in the deep-shallow direction and 23.4% in the high-low direction. The center of the ellipse was comparable to the anatomic center of the ACL footprint, as previously reported. The ratio of the minor axis to the major axis of the ellipse was 0.58 (95% CI, 0.54-0.62). There was a significant negative correlation between the ratio of the minor axis to the major axis of the HDA ellipse and the posterior tibial slope ( r = −0.38, P = .02).

Conclusion:

The center of the HDA ellipse was found to be similar to the anatomic center of the ACL footprint. Considering the mechanical stress responses in bone, the HDA of the lateral intercondylar wall has the potential to represent the ACL insertion, especially functional insertion.
Proton Pump Inhibitors in Germany: Status Quo of a Growing Market
Authors: Plehhova Kate , Häring Monika , Wray Joshua , Coyle Cathal , Kostev Karel
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The volume of prescriptions for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) remains high, although the literature increasingly points to excessive prescribing in relation to guideline recommendations. No very recent data is available on the specific situation in Germany, particularly on the proportion of PPI consumption from over-the-counter (OTC) sales and self-selection, following PPI down-scheduling. The aim of this study was to determine the actual amount of prescribed and OTC PPIs in Germany.

Methods

For this retrospective study, several IQVIA databases were used, representing all prescriptions billed to statutory and private health insurers in Germany, as well as OTC sales. Analyses were performed for the period November 2020 to October 2021 or partially November 2018 to October 2021 and were descriptive in nature. Mainly, data were collected from IQVIATM PharmaScope National® as well as IQVIA TM DPM® databases.

Results

A total of 2.87 billion PPI tablets were shown to have been sold between November 2020 and October 2021, with most drugs prescribed in the largest packages and strengths. In addition, the OTC PPI market increased by an average of 14% per year over a 3-year period.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest the substantial size of the PPI market in Germany is based on prescriptions, a consistent increase in OTC PPI purchases and a recent increase in prescriptions.
Exploratory study of blood biomarkers in patients with post-stroke epilepsy
Authors: Abraira Laura , López-Maza Samuel , Quintana Manuel , Fonseca Elena , Toledo Manuel , Campos-Fernández Daniel , Lallana Sofía , Grau-López Laia , Ciurans Jordi , Jiménez Marta , Becerra Juan Luis , Bustamante Alejandro , Rubiera Marta , Penalba Anna , Montaner Joan , Álvarez Sabin José , Santamarina Estevo
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

In addition to clinical factors, blood-based biomarkers can provide useful information on the risk of developing post-stroke epilepsy (PSE). Our aim was to identify serum biomarkers at stroke onset that could contribute to predicting patients at higher risk of PSE.

Patients and methods:

From a previous study in which 895 acute stroke patients were followed-up, 51 patients developed PSE. We selected 15 patients with PSE and 15 controls without epilepsy. In a biomarker discovery setting, 5 Olink panels of 96 proteins each, were used to determine protein levels. Biomarkers that were down-regulated and overexpressed in PSE patients, and those that showed the strongest interactions with other proteins were validated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in samples from 50 PSE patients and 50 controls. A ROC curve analysis was used to evaluate the predictive ability of significant biomarkers to develop PSE.

Results:

Mean age of the PSE discovery cohort was 68.56 ± 15.1, 40% women and baseline NIHSS 12 [IQR 1–25]. Nine proteins were down-expressed: CASP-8, TNFSF-14, STAMBP, ENRAGE, EDA2R, SIRT2, TGF-alpha, OSM and CLEC1B. VEGFa, CD40 and CCL4 showed greatest interactions with the remaining proteins. In the validation analysis, TNFSF-14 was the single biomarker showing statistically significant downregulated levels in PSE patients ( p = 0.006) and it showed a good predictive capability to develop PSE (AUC 0.733, 95% CI 0.601–0.865).

Discussion and conclusion:

Protein expression in PSE patients differs from that of non-epileptic stroke patients, suggesting the involvement of several different proteins in post-stroke epileptogenesis. TNFSF-14 emerges as a potential biomarker for predicting PSE.
Comparing Designed Training Sets to Optimize Multivariate Regression Models for Pr, Nd, and Nitric Acid Using Spectrophotometry
Authors: Sadergaski Luke R. , Andrews Hunter B. , Rai David , Anagnostopoulos Vasileios A.
Published: April 2024

Chemometric regression models were developed for the quantification of praseodymium (Pr, 0–1000 µg/mL), neodymium (Nd, 0–1000 µg/mL), and nitric acid (HNO3, 0.1–5 M) using spectrophotometry. Designed calibration sets were composed of 20 samples each: 10 model points and 10 lack-of-fit (LOF) points. The D-optimal designs effectively minimized the number of samples required to build models, and each design resulted in similar prediction performance, suggesting that statistical design of experiments can provide a reliable framework for selecting training set samples in three-variable systems. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) models were validated against a one-factor-at-a-time validation set composed of 125 samples (three variables, five levels). The top PLS-1 models resulted in average percent root mean square error of prediction error values of 3.5%, 1.7%, and 1.2% for Pr(III), Nd(III), and HNO3, respectively. Power set augmentations of the model and LOF samples were investigated to optimize the number of training set samples. PLSR models built using just required model points (10) had similar predictive capabilities as models including the LOF points (20) but with fewer samples. The number of validation samples was also varied systematically to learn how many samples are needed to validate regression models. This work addresses long-standing questions in the field of chemometrics to help make this approach amenable to the near-real-time quantification of hazardous species in remote settings.
A review on properties and variability of Pinus Pinaster Ait. ssp. Atlantica existing in the Landes of Gascogne
Authors: Chevalier Romain , Catapano Anita , Pommier Régis , Montemurro Marco
Published: April 2024

Pinus Pinaster Ait. is a softwood species indigenous of the South West of Europe, broadly spread alongside the Mediterranean Sea and present worldwide. Pinus Pinaster Ait. (ssp. Atlantica) is largely used in industrial applications including construction and buildings in the Southwest of France as it has widely grown across the whole area. However, very often, Pinus Pinaster Ait.-based product design strategies make use of properties of generic softwood species due to the lack of a proper database (or review) on the topic. This review article aims to exhaustively present the consistent scientific literature on Pinus Pinaster Ait. properties focusing on its physical, hygrical, thermal and mechanical properties. Indeed, a vast literature exists, laid out across a wide range of years and countries.
Sialylation on vesicular integrin β1 determined endocytic entry of small extracellular vesicles into recipient cells
Authors: Lin Meixuan , Xu Xiaoqiang , Zhou Xiaoman , Feng Hui , Wang Ruili , Yang Yunyun , Li Jing , Fan Ning , Jiang Yazhuo , Li Xiang , Guan Feng , Tan Zengqi
Published: April 2024

Background

Small extracellular vesicles (sEV) are closely associated with the development and metastasis of many types of mammalian cancer. Glycoconjugates are highly expressed on sEV and play important roles in sEV biogenesis and their interaction with other cells. However, the study on vesicular glycoconjugates are far behind proteins and nucleic acids. Especially, the functions of sialic acids which are the terminal components of glycoconjugates, are poorly understood in sEV.

Methods

Sialic acid levels on sEV from plasma and bladder cancer cells were determined by ELISA and lectin blotting. Effects of sialylation on sEV uptake were determined by flow cytometry. Vesicular glycoproteins bearing sialic acids responsible for sEV uptake was identified by proteomics and density gradient centrifugation, and their site-specific sialylation functions were assayed by N-glycosylation site mutation. Effects of integrin β1 bearing sialic acids on the pro-metastatic function of sEV in vivo were explored using Balb/c nu/nu mice.

Results

(1) Increased sialic acid levels were observed in sEV from malignant bladder cancer cells. (2) Elimination of sialic acids on sEV impaired sEV uptake by recipient cells. (3) Vesicular integrin β1 bearing sialic acids was identified to play a key role in sEV uptake. (4) Desialylation of the hybrid domain of vesicular integrin β1 inhibited its binding to matrix fibronectin, and reduced sEV entry into recipient cells. (5) Sialylation on integrin β1 affected pro-metastatic function of sEV in Balb/c nu/nu mice.

Conclusions

Taken together, our findings indicate important functional roles of sialic acids in sEV uptake and reprogramming plasticity of surrounding normal epithelial cells.

Graphical Abstract
Negative regulation of thyroid adenoma-associated protein (THADA) in the cardiac glycoside-induced anti-cancer effect
Authors: Katoh Mizuki , Fujii Takuto , Tabuchi Yoshiaki , Shimizu Takahiro , Sakai Hideki
Published: April 2024

Cardiac glycosides, known as inhibitors of Na+,K+-ATPase, have anti-cancer effects such as suppression of cancer cell proliferation and induction of cancer cell death. Here, we examined the signaling pathway elicited by cardiac glycosides in the human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells and human epidermoid carcinoma KB cells. Three kinds of cardiac glycosides (ouabain, oleandrin, and digoxin) inhibited the cancer cell proliferation and decreased the expression level of thyroid adenoma-associated protein (THADA). Interestingly, the knockdown of THADA inhibited cancer cell proliferation, and the proliferation was significantly rescued by re-expression of THADA in the THADA-knockdown cells. In addition, the THADA-knockdown markedly decreased the expression level of L-type amino acid transporter LAT1. Cardiac glycosides also reduced the LAT1 expression. The LAT1 inhibitor, JPH203, significantly weakened the cancer cell proliferation. These results suggest that the binding of cardiac glycosides to Na+,K+-ATPase negatively regulates the THADA-LAT1 pathway, exerting the anti-proliferative effect in cancer cells.
MFSynDCP: multi-source feature collaborative interactive learning for drug combination synergy prediction
Authors: Dong Yunyun , Chang Yunqing , Wang Yuxiang , Han Qixuan , Wen Xiaoyuan , Yang Ziting , Zhang Yan , Qiang Yan , Wu Kun , Fan Xiaole , Ren Xiaoqiang
Published: April 2024

Drug combination therapy is generally more effective than monotherapy in the field of cancer treatment. However, screening for effective synergistic combinations from a wide range of drug combinations is particularly important given the increase in the number of available drug classes and potential drug-drug interactions. Existing methods for predicting the synergistic effects of drug combinations primarily focus on extracting structural features of drug molecules and cell lines, but neglect the interaction mechanisms between cell lines and drug combinations. Consequently, there is a deficiency in comprehensive understanding of the synergistic effects of drug combinations. To address this issue, we propose a drug combination synergy prediction model based on multi-source feature interaction learning, named MFSynDCP, aiming to predict the synergistic effects of anti-tumor drug combinations. This model includes a graph aggregation module with an adaptive attention mechanism for learning drug interactions and a multi-source feature interaction learning controller for managing information transfer between different data sources, accommodating both drug and cell line features. Comparative studies with benchmark datasets demonstrate MFSynDCP's superiority over existing methods. Additionally, its adaptive attention mechanism graph aggregation module identifies drug chemical substructures crucial to the synergy mechanism. Overall, MFSynDCP is a robust tool for predicting synergistic drug combinations. The source code is available from GitHub at https://github.com/kkioplkg/MFSynDCP.
The nature and distribution of putative non-functional alleles suggest only two independent events at the origins of Astyanax mexicanus cavefish populations
Authors: Policarpo Maxime , Legendre Laurent , Germon Isabelle , Lafargeas Philippe , Espinasa Luis , Rétaux Sylvie , Casane Didier
Published: April 2024

Background

Several studies suggested that cavefish populations ofAstyanax mexicanussettled during the Late Pleistocene. This implies that the cavefish’s most conspicuous phenotypic changes, blindness and depigmentation, and more cryptic characters important for cave life, evolved rapidly.

Results

Using the published genomes of 47Astyanaxcavefish from la Cueva de El Pachón, El Sótano de la Tinaja, La Cueva Chica and El Sótano de Molino, we searched for putative loss-of-function mutations in previously defined sets of genes,i.e., vision, circadian clock and pigmentation genes. Putative non-functional alleles for four vision genes were identified. Then, we searched genome-wide for putative non-functional alleles in these four cave populations. Among 512 genes with segregating putative non-functional alleles in cavefish that are absent in surface fish, we found an enrichment in visual perception genes. Among cavefish populations, different levels of shared putative non-functional alleles were found. Using a subset of 12 genes for which putative loss-of-function mutations were found, we extend the analysis of shared pseudogenes to 11 cave populations. Using a subset of six genes for which putative loss-of-function mutations were found in the El Sótano del Toro population, where extensive hybridization with surface fish occurs, we found a correlation between the level of eye regression and the amount of putative non-functional alleles.

Conclusions

We confirm that very few putative non-functional alleles are present in a large set of vision genes, in accordance with the recent origin ofAstyanax mexicanuscavefish. Furthermore, the genome-wide analysis indicates an enrichment of putative loss-of-function alleles in genes with vision-related GO-terms, suggesting that visual perception may be the function chiefly impacted by gene losses related to the shift from a surface to a cave environment.

The geographic distribution of putative loss-of-function alleles newly suggests that cave populations from Sierra de Guatemala and Sierra de El Abra share a common origin, albeit followed by independent evolution for a long period. It also supports that populations from the Micos area have an independent origin. In El Sótano del Toro, the troglomorphic phenotype is maintained despite massive introgression of the surface genome.
Protein profile analysis of Jilin white goose testicles at different stages of the laying cycle by DIA strategy
Authors: Song Yupu , Ma Jingyun , Liu Qiuyuan , Mabrouk Ichraf , Zhou Yuxuan , Yu Jin , Liu Fengshuo , Wang Jingbo , Yu Zhiye , Hu Jingtao , Sun Yongfeng
Published: April 2024

Background

Jilin white goose is an excellent local breed in China, with a high annual egg production and laying eggs mainly from February to July each year. The testis, as the only organ that can produce sperm, can affect the sexual maturity and fecundity of male animals. Its growth and development are affected and regulated by a variety of factors. Proteomics is generally applied to identify and quantify proteins in cells and tissues in order to understand the physiological or pathological changes that occur in tissues or cells under specific conditions. Currently, the female poultry reproductive system has been extensively studied, while few related studies focusing on the regulatory mechanism of the reproductive system of male poultry have been conducted.

Results

A total of 1753 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were generated in which there were 594, 391 and 768 different proteins showing differential expression in three stages, Initial of Laying Cycle (ILC), Peak of Laying Cycle (PLC) and End of Laying Cycle (ELC). Furthermore, bioinformatics was used to analyze the DEPs. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment, Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis were adopted. All DEPs were found to be implicated in multiple biological processes and pathways associated with testicular development, such as renin secretion, Lysosomes, SNARE interactions in vesicle trafficking, the p53 signaling pathway and pathways related to metabolism. Additionally, the reliability of transcriptome results was verified by real-time quantitative PCR by selecting the transcript abundance of 6 selected DEPs at the three stages of the laying cycle.

Conclusions

The funding in this study will provide critical insight into the complex molecular mechanisms and breeding practices underlying the developmental characteristics of testicles in Jilin white goose.
Transcriptomic changes in the microsporidia proliferation and host responses in congenitally infected embryos and larvae
Authors: Shen Zigang , Ke Zhuojun , Yang Qiong , Ghebremichael Samson Teweldeberhan , Li Tangxin , Li Tian , Chen Jie , Meng Xianzhi , Xiang Heng , Li Chunfeng , Zhou Zeyang , Pan Guoqing , Chen Ping
Published: April 2024

Congenital infection caused by vertical transmission of microsporidia N. bombycis can result in severe economic losses in the silkworm-rearing industry. Whole-transcriptome analyses have revealed non-coding RNAs and their regulatory networks in N. bombycis infected embryos and larvae. However, transcriptomic changes in the microsporidia proliferation and host responses in congenitally infected embryos and larvae remains unclear. Here, we simultaneously compared the transcriptomes of N. bombycis and its host B. mori embryos of 5-day and larvae of 1-, 5- and 10-day during congenital infection. For the transcriptome of N. bombycis, a comparison of parasite expression patterns between congenital-infected embryos and larva showed most genes related to parasite central carbon metabolism were down-regulated in larvae during infection, whereas the majority of genes involved in parasite proliferation and growth were up-regulated. Interestingly, a large number of distinct or shared differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were revealed by the Venn diagram and heat map, many of them were connected to infection related factors such as Ricin B lectin, spore wall protein, polar tube protein, and polysaccharide deacetylase. For the transcriptome of B. mori infected with N. bombycis, beyond numerous DEGs related to DNA replication and repair, mRNA surveillance pathway, RNA transport, protein biosynthesis, and proteolysis, with the progression of infection, a large number of DEGs related to immune and infection pathways, including phagocytosis, apoptosis, TNF, Toll-like receptor, NF-kappa B, Fc epsilon RI, and some diseases, were successively identified. In contrast, most genes associated with the insulin signaling pathway, 2-oxacarboxylic acid metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, and lipid metabolisms were up-regulated in larvae compared to those in embryos. Furthermore, dozens of distinct and three shared DEGs that were involved in the epigenetic regulations, such as polycomb, histone-lysine-specific demethylases, and histone-lysine-N-methyltransferases, were identified via the Venn diagram and heat maps. Notably, many DEGs of host and parasite associated with lipid-related metabolisms were verified by RT-qPCR. Taken together, simultaneous transcriptomic analyses of both host and parasite genes lead to a better understanding of changes in the microsporidia proliferation and host responses in embryos and larvae in N. bombycis congenital infection.
Detection and classification of the integrative conjugative elements of Lactococcus lactis
Authors: van der Els Simon , Sheombarsing Reshtrie , van Kempen Thijn , Wels Michiel , Boekhorst Jos , Bron Peter A. , Kleerebezem Michiel
Published: April 2024

Lactococcus lactis is widely applied by the dairy industry for the fermentation of milk into products such as cheese. Adaptation of L. lactis to the dairy environment often depends on functions encoded by mobile genetic elements (MGEs) such as plasmids. Other L. lactis MGEs that contribute to industrially relevant traits like antimicrobial production and carbohydrate utilization capacities belong to the integrative conjugative elements (ICE). Here we investigate the prevalence of ICEs in L. lactis using an automated search engine that detects colocalized, ICE-associated core-functions (involved in conjugation or mobilization) in lactococcal genomes. This approach enabled the detection of 36 candidate-ICEs in 69 L. lactis genomes. By phylogenetic analysis of conserved protein functions encoded in all lactococcal ICEs, these 36 ICEs could be classified in three main ICE-families that encompass 7 distinguishable ICE-integrases and are characterized by apparent modular-exchangeability and plasticity. Finally, we demonstrate that phylogenetic analysis of the conjugation-associated VirB4 ATPase function differentiates ICE- and plasmid-derived conjugation systems, indicating that conjugal transfer of lactococcal ICEs and plasmids involves genetically distinct machineries. Our genomic analysis and sequence-based classification of lactococcal ICEs creates a comprehensive overview of the conserved functional repertoires encoded by this family of MGEs in L. lactis, which can facilitate the future exploitation of the functional traits they encode by ICE mobilization to appropriate starter culture strains.
CmDOF18 positively regulates salinity tolerance in Chrysanthemum morifolium by activating the oxidoreductase system
Authors: Li Peiling , Fang Tingting , Chong Xinran , Chen Juanjuan , Yue Jianhua , Wang Zhiyong
Published: April 2024

Background

Chrysanthemum, one of the four major cut flowers all over the world, is very sensitive to salinity during cultivation. DNA binding with one finger (DOF) transcription factors play important roles in biological processes in plants. The response mechanism of CmDOF18 from chrysanthemum to salt stress remains unclear.

Results

In this study, CmDOF18 was cloned from Chrysanthemum morifolium, and its expression was induced by salinity stress. The gene encodes a 291-amino acid protein with a typical DOF domain. CmDOF18 was localized to the nucleus in onion epidermal cells and showed transcriptional activation in yeast. CmDOF18 transgenic plants were generated to identify the role of this gene in resistance to salinity treatment. Chrysanthemum plants overexpressing CmDOF18 were more resistant to salinity stress than wild-type plants. Under salinity stress, the malondialdehyde content and leaf electrolyte conductivity in CmDOF18-overexpressing transgenic plants were lower than those in wild-type plants, while the proline content, chlorophyll content, superoxide dismutase activity and peroxidase activity were higher than those in wild-type plants. The opposite findings were observed in gene-silenced plants compared with wild-type plants. The gene expression levels of oxidoreductase increased in CmDOF18-overexpressing transgenic plants but decreased in CmDOF18-SRDX gene-silenced transgenic plants.

Conclusion

In summary, we analyzed the function of CmDOF18 from chrysanthemum, which may regulate salinity stress in plants, possibly due to its role in the regulation of oxidoreductase.
Involving community pharmacists in interprofessional collaboration in primary care: a systematic review
Authors: Angibaud Morgane , Jourdain Maud , Girard Solene , Rouxel Louise , Mouhib Adam , Nogueira Antoine , Rat Cédric , Huon Jean-François
Published: April 2024

Background

The World Health Organization supports interprofessional collaboration in primary care. On over the past 20 years, community pharmacists had been taking a growing number of new responsibilities and they are recognized as a core member of collaborative care teams as patient-centered care providers. This systematic review aimed to describe interprofessional collaboration in primary care involving a pharmacist, and its effect on patient related outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials cited in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycInfo and CINAHL in English and French was conducted from inception to November 2022. Studies were included if they described an intervention piloted by a primary care provider and included a pharmacist and if they evaluated the effects of intervention on a disease or on patient related outcomes. The search generated 3494 articles. After duplicates were removed and titles and abstracts screened for inclusion, 344 articles remained.

Results

Overall, 19 studies were included in the review and assessed for quality. We found 14 studies describing an exclusive collaboration between physician and pharmacist with for all studies a three-step model of pharmacist intervention: a medication review, an interview with the patient, and recommendations made to physician. Major topics in the articles eligible for inclusion included cardiovascular diseases with blood pressure, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and risk of cardiovascular diseases. Positive effects concerned principally blood pressure.

Conclusions

Collaboration involving pharmacists is mainly described in relation to cardiovascular diseases, for which patient-centered indicators are most often positive. It underscores the need for further controlled studies on pharmacist-involved interprofessional collaboration across various medical conditions to improve consensus on core outcomes measures.
Primary caregivers’ experiences of caring for people living with dementia in Ghana: a phenomenological study
Authors: Duodu Precious Adade , Simkhada Bibha , Okyere Joshua , Akrong Ransford , Barker Caroline , Gillibrand Warren , Simkhada Padam
Published: April 2024

Background

Dementia is often associated with functional impairments that limit the independence of persons living with dementia (PwD). As such, many PwD often require a higher level of support provided by persons referred to as caregivers. Such caregiving activities tend to strain and stress the caregiver. Nonetheless, Ghana lacks empirical evidence and understanding of the effects of caring for PwD on the lives of primary caregivers. To help narrow this knowledge gap, we explored the perspectives of primary caregivers about the impacts of caring for PwD in Ghana.

Methods

Using a descriptive phenomenological design, we conducted in-depth interviews with primary caregivers in the Ashanti region, Ghana. A semi-structured interview guide was used as the data collection instrument. The data analysis followed Collazi’s thematic analysis framework. All coding and categorization were done in NVivo-12.

Results

Five themes emerged from the analysis. These themes included (a) sacrifice of personal interests, and time commitments; (b) financial strain and negative impact on job; (c) feelings of stress and burnout; (d) experience of abuse and stigma; and (e) perceived blessing of caregiving.

Conclusion

The study’s findings resonate with existing literature, highlighting the consistent struggles faced by caregivers. Sacrificing personal interests, navigating financial strains, and grappling with stress and burnout emerged as pervasive themes. We conclude that despite the negative impacts of caring for PwD, caregivers perceived their role as associated with blessings, deriving positive meaning and fulfilment from their caregiving journey. This study underscores a need to build more compassionate communities in rural settings of Ghana.
The effect of physical exercise during radiotherapy on physical performance in patients with head and neck cancer: a trial within cohorts study protocol, the vital study
Authors: Kriellaars Yvette , Vermaire Jorine Ariane , Beugeling Maaike , Poorter Robert , Drijvers Janneke , Speksnijder Caroline Margina
Published: April 2024

Background

During the last decade, twelve studies have been published investigating physical exercise interventions (PEIs) in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) during radiotherapy (RT), chemoradiation (CRT) or bioradiation (BRT). These studies showed that these PEIs are safe and feasible. However, only two of these studies were randomised clinical trials (RCTs) with a satisfying sample size. Thereby, there is no cost-effectiveness study related to a PEI during RT, CRT or BRT ((C/B)RT) for patients with HNC. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate and compare physical performance, muscle strength, fatigue, quality of life (QoL), body mass index (BMI), nutritional status, physical activity, treatment tolerability, and health care related costs in patients with HNC with and without a 10 week PEI during (C/B)RT.

Methods

This study, based on a trial within cohorts (TwiCs) design, will contain a prospective cohort of at least 112 patients. Fifty-six patients will randomly be invited for an experimental 10 week PEI. This PEI consists of both resistance and endurance exercises to optimize physical performance, muscle strength, fatigue, QoL, BMI, nutritional status, physical activity, and treatment tolerability of (C/B)RT. Measurements are at baseline, after 12 weeks, 6 months, and at 12 months. Statistical analyses will be performed for intention-to-treat and instrumental variable analysis.

Discussion

This study seeks to investigate physical, QoL, and economic implications of a PEI. With a substantial sample size, this study attempts to strengthen and expand knowledge in HNC care upon PEI during (C/B)RT. In conclusion, this study is dedicated to provide additional evidence for PEI in patients with HNC during (C/B)RT.

Trial registration

protocol was registered at clinicaltrials.gov with number NCT05988060 on 3 August 2023.
Delayed onset of neonatal compartment syndrome associated with compound fetal presentation
Authors: Manini Nicholas , Unno Hayato
Published: April 2024

Neonatal compartment syndrome, although rare, has a classic presentation with sentinel skin findings and development of swelling, erythema, and tenderness of the affected extremity. Neonatal compartment syndrome requires prompt surgical intervention to preserve the affected limb and ensure its normal growth and development. Our patient was born at term via vaginal delivery complicated by a compound presentation involving the left upper extremity. No physical exam abnormalities were noted at birth, but she developed signs of neonatal compartment syndrome by 15 h of life. She was surgically treated at 22 h of life and recovered well. At one year of age, she has normal growth and function of the affected extremity. Our case adds to the growing literature associating neonatal compartment syndrome with a compound fetal presentation.
Effects of sleep-disordered breathing on serum lipid levels in children:a case control study
Authors: Lei Lei , Zhang XiaoYun , Wang Binbin , Lei Fei , Dai Li , Sun Xiaoru , Zhao Yu , Zhu Ping , Zou Jian
Published: April 2024

Background

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) during childhood is common and includes a range of breathing abnormalities that range from primary snoring (PS) to obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).Studies have shown that not only OSAS, but also PS, which is originally considered harmless, could cause cardiovascular, cognitive, behavioral, and psychosocial problems. Many researches are focused on the relation of OSA and serum lipid levels. However, little studies are focused on PS and serum lipid levels in children.We evaluated whether serum lipid (total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)) concentrations were associated with specific components of SDB, including indices of oxygen reduction index, lowest oxygen saturation, mean oxygen saturation. And we explored whether serum lipid levels were associated with different degree sleep disordered (PS and OSA group) and obese.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. Children who were complained by their guardians with habitual snoring and(or) mouth breathing were collected in the SDB group. Normal children without sleep problem were matched in the control group. Subjects in the SDB group underwent polysomnography. The serum lipid profiles of all the children included TC, TG, HDL-C and LDL-C concentrations were measured by appropriate enzymatic assays.

Results

A total of 241 with Apnea/Hypopnea Index ≥ 5 (AHI) were assigned to the OSAS group and the remaining 155 with normal AHI were assigned to the PS group. The values of TC, TG, LDL-C and LDL/HDL were significantly higher in the OSAS group than in the PS group, and the values in the PS group were significantly higher than the control group. Multiple regression analysis revealed serum TG only correlated negatively with lowest oxygen saturation. Body mass index-z score has a positive effect on TG in all the 1310 children (P = 0.031) and in SDB 396 children(P = 0.012). The level of serum TG in obese group was significantly higher than that in non-obese group.

Conclusions

SDB had a very obvious effect on blood lipids, whereas PS without apnea and hypoxia. Obese only affects the aggregation of TG.

Trial registration

ChiCTR1900026807(2019.10.23).
Familial dilated cardiomyopathy in a child: a case report
Authors: Ismail Ali , Khreis Dima , Assaad Amani , Majdalani Marianne Nimah
Published: April 2024

Background

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) commonly leads to heart failure (HF) and represents the most common indication for cardiac transplantation in the pediatric population. Clinical manifestations of DCM are mainly the symptoms of heart failure; it is diagnosed by EKG, chest x-ray and echocardiography. For the idiopathic and familial diseases cases of DCM, there are no definite guidelines for treatment in children as they are treated for prognostic improvement.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 2-year-old girl diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy associated with homozygous mutation in the Myosin Light Chain 3 gene admitted for edema in lower extremities, muscle weakness, lethargy and vomiting, and she was found to be in cardiogenic shock. Chest x-ray showed cardiomegaly and EKG showed first degree atrioventricular block. Echocardiogram showed severe biventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. After 70 days of hospitalization, the patient went into cardiac arrest with cessation of electrical and mechanical activity of the heart, despite cardiopulmonary resuscitative efforts.

Conclusion

Although rare, pediatric DCM carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality and a lack of curative therapy.
Recreational cannabis legalization and immigration enforcement: a state-level analysis of arrests and deportations in the United States, 2009–2020
Authors: Bruzelius Emilie , Martins Silvia S.
Published: April 2024

Background

Recreational cannabis laws (RCL) in the United States (US) can have important implications for people who are non-citizens, including those with and without formal documentation, and those who are refugees or seeking asylum. For these groups, committing a cannabis-related infraction, even a misdemeanor, can constitute grounds for status ineligibility, including arrest and deportation under federal immigration policy—regardless of state law. Despite interconnections between immigration and drug policy, the potential impacts of increasing state cannabis legalization on immigration enforcement are unexplored.

Methods

In this repeated cross-sectional analysis, we tested the association between state-level RCL adoption and monthly, state-level prevalence of immigration arrests and deportations related to cannabis possession. Data were from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse. Immigration arrest information was available from Oct-2014 to May-2018 and immigration deportation information were available from Jan-2009 to Jun-2020 for. To test associations with RCLs, we fit Poisson fixed effects models that controlled for pre-existing differences between states, secular trends, and potential sociodemographic, sociopolitical, and setting-related confounders. Sensitivity analyses explored potential violations to assumptions and sensitivity to modeling specifications.

Results

Over the observation period, there were 7,739 immigration arrests and 48,015 deportations referencing cannabis possession. By 2020, 12 stated adopted recreational legalization and on average immigration enforcement was lower among RCL compared to non-RCL states. In primary adjusted models, we found no meaningful changes in arrest prevalence, either immediately following RCL adoption (Prevalence Ratio [PR]: 0.84; [95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.57, 1.11]), or 1-year after the law was effective (PR: 0.88 [CI: 0.56, 1.20]). For the deportation outcome, however, RCL adoption was associated with a moderate relative decrease in deportation prevalence in RCL versus non-RCL states (PR: 0.68 [CI: 0.56, 0.80]; PR 1-year lag: 0.68 [CI: 0.54, 0.82]). Additional analyses were mostly consistent by suggested some sensitivities to modeling specification.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that decreasing penalties for cannabis possession through state RCLs may reduce some aspects of immigration enforcement related to cannabis possession. Greater attention to the immigration-related consequences of current drug control policies is warranted, particularly as more states weigh the public health benefits and drawbacks of legalizing cannabis.
Agreement between a web collaborative dataset and an administrative dataset to assess the retail food environment in Mexico
Authors: Ramírez-Toscano Yenisei , Skaba Daniel , de Matos Vanderlei Pascoal , Pérez-Ferrer Carolina , Barrientos-Gutiérrez Tonatiuh , López-Olmedo Nancy , Pina Maria de Fátima
Published: April 2024

Background

Latin American countries are often limited in the availability of food outlet data. There is a need to use online search engines that allow the identification of food outlets and assess their agreement with field observations. We aimed to assess the agreement in the density of food outlets provided by a web collaborative data (Google) against the density obtained from an administrative registry. We also determined whether the agreement differed by type of food outlet and by area-level socioeconomic deprivation.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed 1,693 census tracts from the municipalities of Hermosillo, Leon, Oaxaca de Juarez, and Tlalpan. The Google service was used to develop a tool for the automatic acquisition of food outlet data. To assess agreement, we compared food outlet densities obtained with Google against those registered in the National Statistical Directory of Economic Units (DENUE). Continuous densities were assessed using Bland–Altman plots and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), while agreement across tertiles of density was estimated using weighted kappa.

Results

The CCC indicated a strong correlation between Google and DENUE in the overall sample (0.75); by food outlet, most of the correlations were from negligible (0.08) to moderate (0.58). The CCC showed a weaker correlation as deprivation increased. Weighted kappa indicated substantial agreement between Google and DENUE across all census tracts (0.64). By type of food outlet, the weighted kappa showed substantial agreement for restaurants (0.69) and specialty food stores (0.68); the agreement was moderate for convenience stores/small food retail stores (0.49) and fair for candy/ice cream stores (0.30). Weighted kappa indicated substantial agreement in low-deprivation areas (0.63); in very high-deprivation areas, the agreement was moderate (0.42).

Conclusions

Google could be useful in assessing fixed food outlet densities as a categorical indicator, especially for some establishments, like specialty food stores and restaurants. The data could also be informative of the availability of fixed food outlets, particularly in less deprived areas.