bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antifungal application of biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles with pomegranate peels and nanochitosan as edible coatings for citrus green mold protection
Authors: Salem Mohamed F. , Abd-Elraoof Wessam A. , Tayel Ahmed A. , Alzuaibr Fahad M. , Abonama Osama M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Citrus production and trading are seriously affected by fungal decays worldwide; the green mold infection by Penicillium digitatum could be the most disastrous. The substitutions of chemical and synthetic fungicides with effectual natural alternatives are global demands; plant extract from pomegranates peels (PPE), biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles with PPE (PPE/SeNPs) and chitosan nanoparticles (NCT) were suggested as efficacious fungicidal agents/nanocomposites to control P. digitatum strains.

Method

PPE from Punica granatum was extracted and employed directly for synthesizing SeNPs, whereas NCT was produced using ionic gelation method of chitosan extracted from white prawn (Fenneropenaeus indicus) shells. The physiochemical, biochemical and structural characterization of generated molecules were conducted using infra-red spectroscopy, particles’ size (Ps) and charge assessment and electron microscopes imaging. Antifungal potentialities were investigated in vitro and in infected fruits with P. digitatum by applying NCT nanocomposites-based edible coating.

Results

The synthesis of PPE-synthesized SeNPs and NCT was successfully achieved, the molecular bonding in synthesized agents/composites were proved with infrared spectroscopy to have both biochemical and physical interactions. The nanoparticles had 82.72, 9.41 and 85.17 nm mean diameters for NCT, PPE/SeNPs and NCT/PPE/SeNPs nanocomposites, respectively. The nanoparticles had homogenous spherical shapes and good distribution attributes. The entire agents/nanocomposites exhibited potent fungicidal potentialities toward P. digitatum isolates; NCT/PPE/SeNPs nanocomposite was the most forceful and significantly exceeded the fungicidal action of standard fungicide. The direct treatment of fungal mycelia with NCT/PPE/SeNPs nanocomposite led to remarkable lysis and deformations of P. digitatum hyphae within 12 h of treatment. The coating of infected orange with NCT-based edible coatings reduced the green mold infection signs by 91.7, 95.4 and 100%, for NCT, NCT/PPE and NCT/PPE/SeNPs based coating solutions, respectively.

Conclusions

NCT, PPE-synthesized SeNPs, and their innovative nanocomposites NCT/PPE/SeNPs are convincingly recommended for formulating effectual antifungal and edible coatings to eliminate postharvest fungal pathogen, both with protection from their invasion or with destructing their existing infections.

Graphical Abstract
The activation of PPARγ enhances Treg responses through up-regulating CD36/CPT1-mediated fatty acid oxidation and subsequent N-glycan branching of TβRII/IL-2Rα
Authors: Miao Yumeng , Zhang Changliu , Yang Ling , Zeng Xi , Hu Yuxiao , Xue Xinru , Dai Yue , Wei Zhifeng
Published: April 2022

Background

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is an enhancer of Treg responses, but the mechanisms remain elusive. This study aimed to solve this problem in view of cellular metabolism.

Methods

Three recognized PPARγ agonists (synthetic agonist: rosiglitazone; endogenous ligand: 15d-PGJ2; natural product: morin) were used as the tools to activate PPARγ. The fatty acid oxidation (FAO) was evaluated through the detection of fatty acid uptake, oxygen consumption rate, mitochondrial mass, mitochondrial membrane potential and acetyl-CoA level. The involvement of UDP-GlcNAc/N-linked glycosylation axis and the exact role of PPARγ in the action of PPARγ agonists were determined by flow cytometry, Q-PCR, western blotting, a commercial kit for enzyme activity and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout.

Results

Rosiglitazone, 15d-PGJ2 and morin all increased the frequency of CD4+Foxp3+ Treg cells generated from naïve CD4+ T cells, boosted the transcription of Foxp3, IL-10, CTLA4 and TIGIT, and facilitated the function of Treg cells. They significantly promoted FAO in differentiating Treg cells by up-regulating the levels of CD36 and CPT1 but not other enzymes involved in FAO such as ACADL, ACADM, HADHA or HADHB, and siCD36 or siCPT1 dampened PPARγ agonists-promoted Treg responses. Moreover, PPARγ agonists enhanced UDP-GlcNAc biosynthesis and subsequent N-linked glycosylation, but did not affect the expressions of N-glycan branching enzymes Mgat1, 2, 4 and 5. Notably, the enzyme activity of phosphofructokinase (PFK) was inhibited by PPARγ agonists and the effect was limited by siCD36 or siCPT1, implying PFK to be a link between PPARγ agonists-promoted FAO and UDP-GlcNAc biosynthesis aside from acetyl-CoA. Furthermore, PPARγ agonists facilitated the cell surface abundance of TβRII and IL-2Rα via N-linked glycosylation, thereby activating TGF-β/Smads and IL-2/STAT5 signaling, and the connection between N-linked glycosylation and Treg responses was revealed by tunicamycin. However, the increased surface abundance of CD36 was demonstrated to be mainly owing to PPARγ agonists-up-regulated overall expression. Finally, PPARγ antagonist GW9662 or CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of PPARγ constrained the effects of rosiglitazone, 15d-PGJ2 and morin, confirming the exact role of PPARγ.

Conclusions

The activation of PPARγ enhances Treg responses through up-regulating CD36/CPT1-mediated fatty acid oxidation and subsequent N-glycan branching of TβRII/IL-2Rα, which is beneficial for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

Graphical abstract
TRIM3 facilitates estrogen signaling and modulates breast cancer cell progression
Authors: Zhuang Ting , Wang Beibei , Tan Xiaojing , Wu Le , Li Xin , Li Zhongbo , Cai Yuqing , Fan Rongrong , Yang Xiao , Zhang Chenmiao , Xia Yan , Niu Zhiguo , Liu Bingtian , Cao Qi , Ding Yinlu , Zhou Zhipeng , Huang Qingsong , Yang Huijie
Published: April 2022

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. More than 70% of breast cancers are estrogen receptor (ER) alpha positive. Compared with ER alpha-negative breast cancer, which is more aggressive and has a shorter survival time, ER alpha-positive breast cancer could benefit from endocrine therapy. Selective estrogen receptor modulators, such as tamoxifen, are widely used in endocrine therapy. Approximately half of ER alpha-positive breast cancer patients will eventually develop endocrine resistance, making it a major clinical challenge in therapy. Thus, decoding the throughput of estrogen signaling, including the control of ER alpha expression and stability, is critical for the improvement of breast cancer therapeutics.

Methods

TRIM3 and ER alpha protein expression levels were measured by western blotting, while the mRNA levels of ER alpha target genes were measured by RT–PCR. A CCK-8 assay was used to measure cell viability. RNA sequencing data were analyzed by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Identification of ER alpha signaling activity was accomplished with luciferase assays, RT–PCR and western blotting. Protein stability assays and ubiquitin assays were used to detect ER alpha protein degradation. Ubiquitin-based immunoprecipitation assays were used to detect the specific ubiquitination modification on the ER alpha protein.

Results

In our current study, we found that TRIM3, an E3 ligase, can promote ER alpha signaling activity and breast cancer progression. TRIM3 depletion inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation and migration, while unbiased RNA sequencing data indicated that TRIM3 is required for the activity of estrogen signaling on the -genome-wide scale. The immunoprecipitation assays indicated that TRIM3 associates with ER alpha and promotes its stability, possibly by inducing K63-linked polyubiquitination of ER alpha. In conclusion, our data implicate a nongenomic mechanism by which TRIM3 stabilizes the ER alpha protein to control ER alpha target gene expression linked to breast cancer progression.

Conclusion

Our study provides a novel posttranslational mechanism in estrogen signaling. Modulation of TRIM3 expression or function could be an interesting approach for breast cancer treatment.

Graphical abstract
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for severe COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome in Poland: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Trejnowska Ewa , Drobiński Dominik , Knapik Piotr , Wajda-Pokrontka Marta , Szułdrzyński Konstanty , Staromłyński Jakub , Nowak Wojciech , Urlik Maciej , Ochman Marek , Goździk Waldemar , Serednicki Wojciech , Śmiechowicz Jakub , Brączkowski Jakub , Bąkowski Wojciech , Kwinta Anna , Zembala Michał O. , Suwalski Piotr
Published: April 2022

Background

In Poland, the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with COVID-19 requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) remain unknown. This study aimed to answer these unknowns by analyzing data collected from high-volume ECMO centers willing to participate in this project.

Methods

This retrospective, multicenter cohort study was completed between March 1, 2020, and May 31, 2021 (15 months). Data from all patients treated with ECMO for COVID-19 were analyzed. Pre-ECMO laboratory and treatment data were compared between non-survivors and survivors. Independent predictors for death in the intensive care unit (ICU) were identified.

Results

There were 171 patients admitted to participating centers requiring ECMO for refractory hypoxemia due to COVID-19 during the defined time period. A total of 158 patients (mean age: 46.3 ± 9.8 years) were analyzed, and 13 patients were still requiring ECMO at the end of the observation period. Most patients (88%) were treated after October 1, 2020, 77.8% were transferred to ECMO centers from another facility, and 31% were transferred on extracorporeal life support. The mean duration of ECMO therapy was 18.0 ± 13.5 days. The crude ICU mortality rate was 74.1%. In the group of 41 survivors, 37 patients were successfully weaned from ECMO support and four patients underwent a successful lung transplant. In-hospital death was independently associated with pre-ECMO lactate level (OR 2.10 per 1 mmol/L, p = 0.017) and BMI (OR 1.47 per 5 kg/m2, p = 0.050).

Conclusions

The ICU mortality rate among patients requiring ECMO for COVID-19 in Poland was high. In-hospital death was independently associated with increased pre-ECMO lactate levels and BMI.
Women’s decision-making capacity and its association with comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS in 23 sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: Zegeye Betregiorgis , Anyiam Felix Emeka , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Ameyaw Edward Kwabena , Budu Eugene , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Yaya Sanni
Published: April 2022

Background

Globally, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) remains a public health problem with a higher burden in sub-Saharan African countries. Though the coverage is low in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), comprehensive knowledge about HIV is vital for preventing and controlling the transmission of the virus. Women’s decision-making power is significantly linked with the knowledge and use of healthcare services. However, there is no available evidence on women’s decision-making capacity and comprehensive knowledge of HIV. Therefore, this study investigated the association between women’s decision-making capacity within households and comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS in SSA.

Methods

We derived data from the 2010 to 2020 Demographic and Health Surveys of 23 sub-Saharan African countries for the analysis. Using Stata version 14, both bivariate logistic regression and multivariate multilevel logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association between women’s decision-making capacity and comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS at p ≤ 0.05. Results were reported using adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with their respective 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The pooled results show that comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge among married women in the studied countries was 35.5%, from 18.3% in Chad to 77.1% in Rwanda. Regarding sub-regional distribution, comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa was 73.2%, followed by East Africa (52.4%), West Africa (43.6%), and Central Africa (35.5%). The study showed higher odds of comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS among married women who had decision making power (yes-aOR = 1.20, 95% CI; 1.16–1.25) compared to those who had no decision-making power. Age, women and partner’s level of education, place of residence, exposure to media, HIV testing status, community socio-economic status, parity, religion, and distance to health facilities also had significant association with comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge.

Conclusions

Comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS in SSA is low but varies per country. Married women with decision-making capacity were more likely to have comprehensive knowledge of HIV compared to those with no decision-making capacity. Therefore, comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS can be increased through enhancing women’s decision-making capacities, strengthening employment opportunities, socioeconomic capacities and creating awareness through media. Moreover, improving access to health care facilities working closely with religious leaders, can be considered to increase coverage of comprehensive knowledge of HIV among married women in SSA.
Addressing child undernutrition in Tanzania with the ASTUTE program
Authors: Beckstead E , Mulokozi G , Jensen M , Smith J , Baldauf M , Dearden K. A. , Linehan M. , Torres S. , Glenn J. , West J. H. , Hall P. C. , Crookston B. T.
Published: April 2022

Background

Optimal infant and young child feeding practices (IYCFP) reduce childhood stunting and are associated with additional health benefits. In Tanzania, IYCFP are far from optimal where 32% of children under the age of 5 years are stunted. The purpose of this study was to examine whether behavior change communication focused on reducing child undernutrition was associated with improved IYCFP in Tanzania.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was administered to approximately 10,000 households with children under the age of 2 at baseline and endline. Bivariate analyses and logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between exposure to behavior change communication and timely initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, continued breastfeeding at one year, timely complementary feeding (CF), minimum meal frequency (MMF), minimum dietary diversity (MDD), and minimum acceptable diet (MAD).

Results

Mothers who heard a radio spot about IYCFP were more likely than mothers who had not heard a radio spot about IYCFP to begin complementary foods at six months. Their children were also more likely to achieve MMF, MDD, and MAD with odds ratios of 2.227 (p = 0.0061), 1.222 (p = 0.0454), 1.618 (p =  < .0001), and 1.511 (p = 0.0002), respectively. Mothers who saw a TV spot about IYCFP were more likely to have greater odds of knowing when to begin complementary feeding, feeding their child a minimally diverse diet (4 food groups or more), and serving a minimum acceptable diet with odds ratios of 1.335 (p = 0.0081),

1.360 (p = 0.0003), and 1.268 (p = 0.0156), respectively.

Conclusion

Exposure to behavior change communication in Tanzania was generally associated with some increased knowledge of optimal IYCFP as well as practicing IYCF behaviors. Behavior change communication planners and implementers may want to consider conducting similar campaigns as an important component of behavior change to reduce undernutrition and poor health outcomes in developing settings.
360-Degree laser retinopexy in primary vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: factors associated with its use and impact on surgical outcomes
Authors: Peters Matthew C. , Murray-Douglass Alexander , Park Joseph , Cheng Sean S. H. , Sharma Anil K. , Sharma Abhishek , Vandeleur Kevin W. , Lee Lawrence R. , Moloney Thomas P.
Published: April 2022

Background

To determine patient and surgical factors associated with the use of 360-degree laser retinopexy during primary pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) ± scleral buckle (SB) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and its impact on surgical outcomes.

Methods

Patients who underwent PPV ± SB for repair of non-complex RRD at a single centre were included in this retrospective study. The primary outcome was single surgery anatomical success (SSAS). Secondary outcomes included visual acuity, epiretinal membrane formation, the presence of cystoid macular oedema, tonic pupil and corneal epithelial defects. Multiple logistic regression and multivariate regression was used.

Results

The study included 192 cases, of which 130 received 360-degree laser. Worse preoperative logMAR visual acuity (P = 0.009), male sex (P = 0.060), higher PVR grades, supplemental SB (P = 0.0468) and silicone oil/C3F8 tamponade (P < 0.0001) were associated with 360-degree laser use. No significant associations between 360-degree laser and SSAS (P = 0.079), final logMAR visual acuity (P = 0.0623), ERM development (P = 0.8208), postoperative CMO (P = 0.5946), tonic pupil (P > 0.9999) or corneal epithelial defects (P = N/A) were found.

Conclusions

360-degree laser retinopexy during primary PPV ± SB for RRD was associated with more complex cases and more extensive operations. Even when accounting for this, there was no difference in surgical outcomes or complication rates.
Novel [18F]-labeled thiol for the labeling of Dha- or maleimide-containing biomolecules
Authors: Richard Mylène , Hinnen Françoise , Kuhnast Bertrand
Published: April 2022

Background

Prosthetic approach for the radiolabeling of biologics with fluorine-18 is a robust strategy and has been employed for many years. It requires fast, biocompatible and selective reactions suited to these fragile molecules. Michael addition of a nucleophilic thiol moiety on α,β-unsaturated carbonyl entities is an interesting compromise between simplicity of preparation of the prosthetic reagent and control of the selectivity of the addition. The α,β-unsaturated carbonyl entity of the biologic can easily be generated by addition of a maleimide function using adequate heterobifunctional linkers or generated by selective modification of a cysteine residue leading to a dehydroalanine moiety. We report here the design, synthesis and radiosynthesis of a new fluoropyridine-based thiol [18F]FPySH and its conjugation via Michael addition on model dehydroalanine- or maleimide-containing biologics.

Results

The preparation of cold reference and labeling precursor of [18F]FPySH was achieved and its radiosynthesis was fully automated, enabling production of the thiol prosthetic group with a 7 ± 2.1% radiochemical yield after two steps. The conjugation of [18F]FPySH to two model Dha-containing molecules was then carried out in reducing conditions, yielding the corresponding adducts in 30–45 min reaction time. Furthermore, [18F]FPySH was employed to radiolabel the maleimide-modified c(RGDfK) peptide, affording the radiofluorinated analogue in 15 min.

Conclusion

We have developed an original [18F]-labeled thiol for site-selective conjugation and radiolabeling of Dha or maleimide-containing biomolecules of interest. Labeling of three model compounds was successfully carried out and gave the expected radiofluorinated adducts in less than 45 min, thus compatible with fluorine-18 half-life.
There are more things in physical function and pain: a systematic review on physical, mental and social health within the orthopedic fracture population using PROMIS
Authors: Houwen Thymen , de Munter Leonie , Lansink Koen W. W. , de Jongh Mariska A. C.
Published: April 2022

Background

The Patient-Reported Outcomes Information System (PROMIS®) is more and more extensively being used in medical literature in patients with an orthopedic fracture. Yet, many articles studied heterogeneous groups with chronic orthopedic disorders in which fracture patients were included as well. At this moment, there is no systematic overview of the exact use of PROMIS measures in the orthopedic fracture population. Therefore this review aimed to provide an overview of the PROMIS health domains physical health, mental health and social health in patients suffering an orthopedic fracture.

Methods

This systematic review was documented according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We searched Embase, Medline, Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane Central Register of controlled Trials, CINAHL and Google Scholar in December 2020 using a combination of MeSH terms and specific index terms related to orthopedic fractures and PROMIS questionnaires. Inclusion criteria were available full text articles that were describing the use of any PROMIS questionnaires in both the adult and pediatric extremity fracture population.

Results

We included 51 relevant articles of which most were observational studies (n = 47, 92.2%). A single fracture population was included in 47 studies of which 9 involved ankle fractures (9/51; 17.6%), followed by humeral fractures (8/51; 15.7%), tibia fractures (6/51; 11.8%) and radial -or ulnar fractures (5/51; 9.8%). PROMIS Physical Function (n = 32, 32/51 = 62.7%) and PROMIS Pain Interference (n = 21, 21/51 = 41.2%) were most frequently used questionnaires. PROMIS measures concerning social (n = 5/51 = 9.8%) and mental health (10/51 = 19.6%) were much less often used as outcome measures in the fracture population. A gradually increasing use of PROMIS questionnaires in the orthopedic fracture population was seen since 2017.

Conclusion

Many different PROMIS measures on multiple domains are available and used in previous articles with orthopedic fracture patients. With physical function and pain interference as most popular PROMIS measures, it is important to emphasize that other health-domains such as mental and social health can also be essential to fracture patients.
Actinoalloteichus cyanogriseus: a broad spectrum bio-agent against mulberry root rot pathogens
Authors: Saratha M. , Angappan K. , Karthikeyan S. , Marimuthu S. , Chozhan K.
Published: April 2022

Background

In India, severe yield and economic losses in sericulture were reported due to mulberry root rot disease. Since the disease was caused by complex soil-borne pathogens with wide host range, an attempt was made to develop actinobacteria based biological management strategy to mitigate it.

Results

As a result of continuous screening for anti-fungal actinobacteria, 2 novel and potent isolates (M11 and M12) belong to the rare genus, Actinoalloteichus were obtained from mulberry rhizosphere. Both isolates were gram positive, grayish, aerobic and produced good amount of melanin pigment during sporulation. They exhibited excellent anti-fungal activity against mulberry root rot pathogens viz., Macrophomina phaseolina, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Fusarium solani, Sclerotium rolfsii and Rhizoctonia solani. In addition, these melanogenic isolates grew in wide temperature and pH ranges. Their multi-stress tolerance ability/polyextremophilic nature was exposed when amending regular growth medium with excess concentration of salt and alkali. In addition, the potent isolates also showed tolerance to carbendazim (up to 1000 ppm) and UVB irradiation (up to 180 min at 10 cm distance).

Conclusion

The present study focused on the identification and characterization of melanogenic actinobacteria, further made it potential candidate that could be incorporated in eco-friendly, integrated disease management strategies against complex mulberry root rot pathogens.
Thellungiella halophila ST103 enhances salt tolerance in Gossypium hirsutum
Authors: JAVAID Ayesha , NAZISH Tahmina , ALI Mohsin , ZHU Yonghong , LI Jing , ZHANG Huangyang , WU Jie , XIANG Chengbin , WU Shenjie , ALFATIH Alamin
Published: April 2022

Background

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), the major textile fiber crop of the world, is negatively affected by salinity. It leads to the induction of adverse effects on growth and development of cotton. The overall yield of cotton faces major drawback once they are grown in saline soil. To improve cotton salt tolerance, transgenic approach offers a fast and effective way but it relies on the availability of salt tolerance genes.

Results

In this study, we have reported the evaluation of ThST103, a homologue of Arabidopsis ozone-induced protein (AtOZI1) in Thellungiella halophila, in enhancing salt tolerance in cotton. Overexpression of ThST103 enabled cotton plants to germinate and grow better than the wild types under salt stress. The transgenic lines showed enhanced survival rate in the saline environment and experienced less oxidative damage compared with the wild types. In the field, the transgenic cotton lines produced higher yield than the wild type in saline soil. Transcriptomic comparison analyses of ThST103 overexpression lines versus the wild type revealed upregulated genes enriched in salt stress tolerance and ion homeostasis.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that ThST103 has the capability to improve salt tolerance in cotton. It can be used in cotton breeding for salt tolerance cultivars.
Pretreatment Lymphocyte Count Predicts Benefit From Concurrent Chemotherapy With Radiotherapy in Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Price James M. , Mistry Hitesh B. , Betts Guy , Cheadle Eleanor J. , Dixon Lynne , Garcez Kate , Illidge Tim , Iyizoba-Ebozue Zsuzsanna , Lee Lip Wai , McPartlin Andrew , Prestwich Robin J.D. , Papageorgiou Savvas , Pritchard Dylan J. , Sykes Andrew , West Catharine M. , Thomson David J.
Published: April 2022

PURPOSE

There is a need to refine the selection of patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) for treatment de-escalation. We investigated whether pretreatment absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) predicted overall survival (OS) benefit from the addition of concurrent chemotherapy to radical radiotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was an observational study of consecutive OPSCCs treated by curative-intent radiotherapy, with or without concurrent chemotherapy (n = 791) with external, independent validation from a separate institution (n = 609). The primary end point was OS at 5 years. Locoregional control (LRC) was assessed using competing risk regression as a secondary end point. Previously determined prognostic factors were used in a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model to assess the prognostic importance of ALC and the interaction between ALC and cisplatin chemotherapy use.

RESULTS

Pretreatment ALC was prognostic for 5-year OS on multivariable analysis (hazard ratio [HR] 0.64; 95% CI, 0.42 to 0.98; P = .04). It also predicted benefit from the use of concurrent cisplatin chemotherapy, with a significant interaction between cisplatin chemotherapy and pretreatment ALC (likelihood ratio test, P = .04): higher ALC count reduced the 5-year OS benefit compared with radiotherapy alone (HR 2.53; 95% CI, 1.03 to 6.19; P = .043). This was likely driven by an effect on LRC up to 5 years (interaction subdistribution HR 2.29; 95% CI, 0.68 to 7.71; P = .094). An independent validation cohort replicated the OS (HR 2.53; 95% CI, 0.98 to 6.52; P = .055) and LRC findings (interaction subdistribution HR 3.43; 95% CI, 1.23 to 9.52; P = .018).

CONCLUSION

For OPSCC, the pretreatment ALC is prognostic for OS and also predicts benefit from the addition of cisplatin chemotherapy to radiotherapy. These findings require prospective evaluation, and could inform the selection of good prognosis patients for a de-escalation trial.
TheMangbaeryeExaminations: Ming Loyalist Court Rituals and Royal Authority in Eighteenth- and Nineteenth-Century Chosŏn
Authors: Han Seunghyun
Published: April 2022

During the reigns of Yŏngjo (r. 1724–76) and Chŏngjo (r. 1776–1800), royal audiences and tests were established as important components of the mangbaerye-day events. For the two rulers, the audience was an occasion to use the significance of the rituals to justify bureaucratic promotions for the attendees. The literary and military tests on mangbaerye days were systematized by Yŏngjo and administered by the ruler as a stage in the state examination. By assuming leading ideological roles through rituals, Yŏngjo was able to present the image of a sage-ruler with supreme political and ideological authority. Chŏngjo refrained from bestowing examination privileges in the mangbaerye tests, making the mangbaerye days special occasions for disseminating Ming loyalism. In the nineteenth century, the frequency of Ming loyalist rituals was significantly reduced, and royal audiences came to a complete halt. Moreover, the rituals incrementally lost ground as events for highlighting the importance of the ritual attendees. The mangbaerye-day tests in the nineteenth century served as a venue to promote participating families’ political advancement, rather than as an occasion to bolster the monarchical authority and power.
Dorsiflexion and Hop Biomechanics Associate with Greater Talar Cartilage Deformation in Those with Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: SONG KYEONGTAK , PIETROSIMONE BRIAN , BLACKBURN J. TROY , PADUA DARIN A. , TENNANT JOSHUA N. , WIKSTROM ERIK A.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to identify associations between dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM), functional hop test performance, and hopping biomechanics with the magnitude of talar cartilage deformation after a standardized hopping protocol in individuals with and without chronic ankle instability (CAI).

Methods

Thirty CAI and 30 healthy individuals participated. Ankle DFROM was assessed using the weight-bearing lunge test. Four different functional hop tests were assessed. Three-dimensional kinematics and kinetics were sampled during a 60-cm single-leg hop. We calculated cartilage deformation after a dynamic loading protocol consisting of sixty 60-cm single-leg forward hops by assessing the change in average thickness for the overall, medial, and lateral talar cartilage. Linear regressions examined the associations between cartilage deformation magnitude and DFROM, functional hop tests, and hop biomechanical variables after accounting for body weight and time since the initial ankle sprain.

Results

In CAI group, lesser static DFROM (ΔR
2 = 0.22) and smaller peak ankle dorsiflexion angle (ΔR
2 = 0.17) was associated with greater medial deformation. Greater peak vertical ground reaction force (vGRF) (ΔR
2 = 0.26–0.28) was associated with greater medial and overall deformation. Greater vGRF loading rate (ΔR
2 = 0.23–0.35) was associated with greater lateral and overall deformation. Greater side hop test times (ΔR
2 = 0.31–0.36) and ankle plantarflexion at initial contact (ΔR
2 = 0.23–0.38) were associated with greater medial, lateral, and overall deformation. In the control group, lesser side hop test times (ΔR
2 = 0.14), greater crossover hop distances (ΔR
2 = 0.14), and greater single-hop distances (ΔR
2 = 0.21) were associated with greater overall deformation.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that lesser static DFROM, poorer functional hop test performance, and hop biomechanics associate with greater talar cartilage deformation after a dynamic loading protocol in those with CAI. These factors may represent targets for therapeutic interventions within this population to slow ankle posttraumatic osteoarthritis progression.
Concussion Knowledge, Attitudes, and Reporting Behaviors of Sports Car Racing Drivers
Authors: Bretzin Abigail C. , Hines Julia N.D. , Ferguson David P.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Optimal concussion management includes early recognition, immediate removal from competition, and diagnosis of concussion. However, because of varied medical access, concussion detection in the automobile racing is challenging, warranting further investigation into concussion knowledge, attitudes, and reporting behaviors. Therefore, the present investigation aimed to characterize concussion knowledge, attitudes, and report behaviors in the specialized motorsport format of “sports car racing.”

Methods

A total of 59 racing drivers participating in the Pirelli World Challenge racing series completed a cross-sectional paper-and-pencil survey. Scores for symptom recognition, knowledge, and attitudes of concussion, and describe reporting behaviors were reported.

Results

Drivers commonly recognized confusion (94.4%), headache (92.6%), loss of consciousness (90.7%), and blurred vision (88.9%) as signs of concussion. Sleep problems were the least recognized (48.2%) symptom. Total knowledge score averaged 34.65 ± 4.7 out of 42, and total attitude score was 45.11 ± 3.5 out of 49. Over half of drivers (55.2%) who recalled a racing-related concussion indicated that they reported all their concussions to a medical professional or teammate. The most common reasons for reporting a concussion included they did not want to have any further damage to their brain (31.0%), they thought that they had a concussion (20.7%), and they were scared (13.7%); common reasons for nondisclosure included not wanting to let their team down (15.4%) and not thinking it was serious (15.4%).

Conclusions

Drivers correctly identified common concussion signs and symptoms, and had favorable concussion knowledge and attitudes. Over half of drivers who recalled a previous driving-related concussion indicated that they reported their injury to a medical professional or teammate. The application of the present investigation will inform the health care team working at racing events to help manage concussions.
Harmonisation of welfare indicators for macaques and marmosets used or bred for research
Authors: Prescott Mark J. , Leach Matthew C. , Truelove Melissa A.
Published: April 2022

Background: Accurate assessment of the welfare of non-human primates (NHPs) used and bred for scientific purposes is essential for effective implementation of obligations to optimise their well-being, for validation of refinement techniques and novel welfare indicators, and for ensuring the highest quality data is obtained from these animals. Despite the importance of welfare assessment in NHP research, there is little consensus on what should be measured. Greater harmonisation of welfare indicators between facilities would enable greater collaboration and data sharing to address welfare-related questions in the management and use of NHPs.

Methods: A Delphi consultation was used to survey attendees of the 2019 NC3Rs Primate Welfare Meeting (73 respondents) to build consensus on which welfare indicators for macaques and marmosets are reliable, valid, and practicable, and how these can be measured.

Results: Self-harm behaviour, social enrichment, cage dimensions, body weight, a health monitoring programme, appetite, staff training, and positive reinforcement training were considered valid, reliable, and practicable indicators for macaques (≥70% consensus) within a hypothetical scenario context involving 500 animals. Indicators ranked important for assessing marmoset welfare were body weight, NHP induced and environmentally induced injuries, cage furniture, huddled posture, mortality, blood in excreta, and physical enrichment. Participants working with macaques in infectious disease and breeding identified a greater range of indicators as valid and reliable than did those working in neuroscience and toxicology, where animal-based indicators were considered the most important. The findings for macaques were compared with a previous Delphi consultation, and the expert-defined consensus from the two surveys used to develop a prototype protocol for assessing macaque welfare in research settings.

Conclusions: Together the Delphi results and proto-protocol enable those working with research NHPs to more effectively assess the welfare of the animals in their care and to collaborate to advance refinement of NHP management and use.
Environmental factors influence the local establishment of Wolbachia in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in two small communities in central Vietnam
Authors: Hien Nguyen T. , Anh Dang D. , Le Nguyen H. , Yen Nguyen T. , Phong Tran V. , Nam Vu S. , Duong Tran N. , Nguyen Nguyen B. , Huong Duong T.T. , Hung Luu Q. , Trinh Chau N.T. , Hoang Nguyen V. , Mai Vien Q. , Nghia Le T. , Dong Nguyen T. , Tho Le H. , Kutcher Simon , Hurst Tim P. , Montgomery Jacqui L. , Woolfit Megan , Rances Edwige , Kyrylos Peter , L. Anders Katherine , Nguyen Le , Brown-Kenyon Jack , Caird Angela , McLean Breeanna J. , Iturbe-Ormaetxe Inaki , Ritchie Scott A. , O'Neill Scott L. , Ryan Peter A.
Published: April 2022

Background: The wMel strain of Wolbachia has been successfully introduced into Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and subsequently shown to reduce transmission of dengue and other pathogens, under both laboratory and field conditions. Here we describe the entomological outcomes of wMel Wolbachia mosquito releases in two small communities in Nha Trang City in central Vietnam.

Methods: The wMel strain of Wolbachia was backcrossed into local Aedes aegypti genotype and mosquito releases were undertaken by community members or by staff. Field monitoring was undertaken to track Wolbachia establishment in local Ae. aegypti mosquito populations. Ecological studies were undertaken to assess relationships between environmental factors and the spatial and temporal variability in Wolbachia infection prevalence in mosquitoes.

Results: Releases of wMel Wolbachia Ae. aegypti mosquitoes in two small communities in Nha Trang City resulted in the initial establishment of Wolbachia in the local Ae. aegypti mosquito populations, followed by seasonal fluctuations in Wolbachia prevalence. There was significant small-scale spatial heterogeneity in Wolbachia infection prevalence in the Tri Nguyen Village site, resulting in the loss of wMel Wolbachia infection in mosquitoes in north and center areas, despite Wolbachia prevalence remaining high in mosquitoes in the south area. In the second site, Vinh Luong Ward, Wolbachia has persisted at a high level in mosquitoes throughout this site despite similar seasonal fluctuations in wMel Wolbachia prevalence.

Conclusion: Seasonal variation in Wolbachia infection prevalence in mosquitoes was associated with elevated temperature conditions, and was possibly due to imperfect maternal transmission of Wolbachia. Heterogeneity in Wolbachia infection prevalence was found throughout one site, and indicates additional factors may influence Wolbachia establishment.
Enabling evidence to tackle everyday diseases to mitigate another pandemic
Authors: Lang Trudie
Published: April 2022

The next emergent novel pathogen is likely to occur where the ability to undertake health research and collect life-saving data is lacking. Without embedded and ongoing research activities in place spotting and stopping a new threat is not possible, thereby enabling undetected infection and unchecked transmission within a community. Without local existing capabilities to collect such data delay is catastrophic. Fundamental goals in pandemic preparedness should be to stop an outbreak before it becomes a pandemic. This requires immediate action from teams already in place with the right skills, this could be readily achieved if we shift our thinking and enable research capabilities to be present in every healthcare setting. Addressing fundamental gaps in health research capacity and equity could tackle this and then we would be better prepared, globally.
The genome sequence of the rosy rustic, Hydraecia micacea (Esper, 1789)
Authors: Boyes Douglas ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective, Turner Rosy ,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: April 2022

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Hydraecia micacea (the rosy rustic; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 562 megabases in span. The majority of the assembly (99.98%) is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, with the W and Z sex chromosomes assembled. The mitochondrial genome was also assembled, and is 16.3 kilobases in length.
Corporate volunteering, positive relationships at work, affective commitment, and work engagement: A mediated moderator model
Authors: FU Yusheng
Published: April 2022

Purpose: The aim of this study is to test for moderating role of corporate volunteering in relationships between perceived supervisor support, positive relationships at work, work meaningfulness, and work engagement.Methodology/approach: The study is based on a survey conducted on a sample of 724 Polish employees, both involved and non-involved in corporate volunteering.Findings: Results of the study suggest that employee participation in corporate volunteering moderates the link between positive relationships at work and work engagement, and the link between perceived supervisor support and work engagement mediated by positive relationships at work.Implications: Results of the study are consistent with previous studies, which have been proved theoretically by the conservation of resources theory (COR) and self determination theory (SDT). Besides, the findings deliver practical implications. Companies are recommended to design employee-friendly volunteering activities to meet employee needs, and attract those employees who have never participated in volunteering.Originality/value: The study explains the effects of corporate volunteering. It also contributes to the field of organizational behaviors by arguing for the direct and indirect positive relationships between perceived supervisor support and work engagement.Keywords: corporate volunteering, affective commitment, work engagement, positive relationships at workPaper type: Research paper
Moyamoya Disease: When Should You Look for a Genetic Cause of Stroke?
Authors: Van Overstraeten Chloé
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Strokes are common but can be caused by a rare illness. Moyamoya disease (MMD) justifies a family assessment because of its hereditary nature and the availability of new therapies. Case description: A 42-year-old man was admitted because of convulsions with sensorimotor deficit due to a massive cerebral haemorrhage caused by MMD. The fact that the patient died suggested his children should be screened. Discussion: MMD is rare and its consequences disastrous. Many cases in both children and adults have been described. Investigations should be carried out when the diagnosis is suspected, and, if confirmed, the family should be screened given the genetic nature of some forms of the disease. Effective and increasingly personalized therapeutic solutions are available. Conclusions: A minority of strokes are caused by rare diseases including MMD. Our current knowledge of this pathology and the treatments available justify a family assessment when the clinical or family context requires it.
Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. Nanoparticles Offer a Preventive Potential Against Experimental Ehrlich Solid Carcinoma
Authors: Hussein Jihan , El Bana Mona , Medhat Dalia , Abdel Latif Yasmin , M. El-sayed Samah , M. Youssef Ahmed , E. El-Naggar Mehrez
Published: April 2022

Hibiscus sabdariffa L. has been widely cultivated in tropical areas, usually used in treatment of many disorders. Thus, in our study we aimed to evaluate the effect of dairy desserts supplemented with nanoform of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. extract (NHSE) against Ehrlich solid carcinoma (ESC) in mice. The NHSE was prepared by soaked the fine powder of plant in 90% ethanol by cold extraction. NHSE was evaluated using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscope (TEM), then the prepared NHSE was added to dairy desserts using different concentrations. Sixty female albino mice were used and divided into six groups. After the end of the experimental period, blood was withdrawn; Serum was separated for determination of malondialdehyde (MDA), super oxidedismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2). Serum homocystein (Hcy) level was estimated by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Mice inoculated intramuscularly with Ehrlich cell line showed statistically marked increase in serum levels of MDA, TNF-α, MMP-9 and Hcy accompanied by marked decrease in SOD and CAT activities and Bcl-2 levels compared to the control group. Treatments with NHSE markedly trigger activity of anti-oxidant, attenuated the inflammatory response, reduced levels of Hcy and stimulated the apoptosis of tumor cells. Based on that, dairy desserts containing NHSE showed effective role in prohibiting the releasing of reactive oxygen species, ameliorating the immune response, and preventing tumor progression.
The Role of the Proinflammatory and Anti-inflammatory Cytokines in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: P. B. Vani P. B. Vani , V. Chitra V. Chitra
Published: April 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting 2.5 million individuals globally. MS majorly affects younger adults, especially women, than males having an incidence ratio of 3:1. MS conditions are characterized by demyelination, axonal deterioration, gliosis, heterogeneous lesions, and lymphocytes entrance infiltrates into the CNS by breaching the blood brain barrier and leading to concurrent relapse remitting episodes. Environmental Factors have an essential role in the etiopathogenesis of the disease. The leukocytes infiltrate secrete the immune mediator's cytokines responsible for the inflammation milieu in the CNS and the disease progression through immune-mediated neurodegeneration. The Cytokines are the small protein molecules secreted for facilitating communication among other cells conducting a complex multicellular behavior. This review aims to discuss the role of the proinflammatory cytokines such as GM-CSF, IL-17, Il-6, IL-1β, IL-22, INF-γ accountable for the initiating and the MS progression. Even though the objective behind these inflammatory mediators' production is to protect the CNS tissue from further impairment, on the contrary sometimes they may severely damage the neurons, myelin sheath, and the other glial cells oligodendrocytes, microglia, and astrocytes in MS due to their pleiotropic nature whereas, the anti inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-10 may possess protective role against MS which could potentially be a novel drug target and could lead us towards a new promising treatment for MS in the future.
STRATEGIC ANALYSIS OF THE NEPAL ELECTRICITY AUTHORITY: A SWOT-AHP ANALYSIS BASED ON STAKEHOLDERS’ PERCEPTIONS
Authors: Regmi Suraj , Shiwakoti Sagar
Published: April 2022

The Strength, Weakness, Opportunities & Threat (SWOT) analysis of an organization is a crucial method for assessing the most relevant internal (Strengths and Weaknesses) and external (Opportunities and Threats) factors affecting the organization. The purpose of this study is to rank the identified factors of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), an undertaking of the Government of Nepal mandated for generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity throughout the country. This paper utilizes the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), a Multicriteria Decision Making (MCDM) technique, to rank the SWOT factors for NEA strategic planning. The AHP method in combination with a SWOT analysis was utilized to conduct pairwise comparison among the identified factors in order to prioritize them using Eigen values. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the experts of the NEA, independent power producers, the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, energy companies, and donor agencies. The study reveals that the monopoly business nature, the huge internal demand for energy and a nationwide electricity distribution network are the main strengths of the NEA whereas an inability to absorb all energy procured through “take or pay” contracts and an insufficient transmission and distribution network are the main threats and weaknesses. Similarly, long-term growth of electricity demand, trade of power and energy banking are the identified opportunities. The findings of the study will help the organization utilize its strengths and opportunities, tackle its weaknesses, and mitigate the threats.