bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and risk factors for early and late reoperation following lumbar fusion surgery
Authors: Wang Shuai-Kang , Wang Peng , Li Xiang-Yu , Kong Chao , Niu Jia-Yin , Lu Shi-Bao
Published: August 2022

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Purpose

The aim of our study was to determine the rates and indications of reoperations following primary lumbar fusion, as well as the independent risk factors for early and late reoperation.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent lumbar fusion surgery between January 2017 and March 2020. All patients were followed up for more than 2 years. Characteristics, laboratory tests, primary diagnosis and surgery-related variables were compared among the early reoperation (< 3 months), the late reoperation (> 3 months) and the non-reoperation groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for early and late reoperations.

Results

Of 821 patients included in our studies, 34 patients underwent early reoperation, and 36 patients underwent late reoperation. The cumulative reoperation rate was about 4.1% (95% CI 3.8–4.5%) at 3 months, 6.2% (95% CI 5.9–6.5%) at 1 year and 8.2% (95% CI 8.0–8.5%) at 3 years. Multivariable analysis indicated that osteoporosis (odds ratio [OR] 3.6, 95% CI 1.2–10.5, p = 0.02) and diabetes (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1–4.5, p = 0.04) were independently associated with early reoperation and multilevel fusion (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.4, p = 0.03) was independently associated with late reoperation.

Conclusions

The most common reasons for early reoperation and late operation were surgical site infection and adjacent segment diseases, respectively. Osteoporosis and diabetes were independent risk factors for early reoperation, and multilevel fusion was independent risk factor for late reoperation. Surgeons should pay more attention to these patients, and future studies should consider the effects of follow-up periods on results.
Genomic analysis reveals the role of integrative and conjugative elements in plant pathogenic bacteria
Authors: de Assis Jéssica Catarine Silva , Gonçalves Osiel Silva , Fernandes Alexia Suellen , de Queiroz Marisa Vieira , Bazzolli Denise Mara Soares , Santana Mateus Ferreira
Published: August 2022

Background

ICEs are mobile genetic elements found integrated into bacterial chromosomes that can excise and be transferred to a new cell. They play an important role in horizontal gene transmission and carry accessory genes that may provide interesting phenotypes for the bacteria. Here, we seek to research the presence and the role of ICEs in 300 genomes of phytopathogenic bacteria with the greatest scientific and economic impact.

Results

Seventy-eight ICEs (45 distinct elements) were identified and characterized in chromosomes of Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Dickeya dadantii, and D. solani, Pectobacterium carotovorum and P. atrosepticum, Pseudomonas syringae, Ralstonia solanacearum Species Complex, and Xanthomonas campestris. Intriguingly, the co-occurrence of four ICEs was observed in some P. syringae strains. Moreover, we identified 31 novel elements, carrying 396 accessory genes with potential influence on virulence and fitness, such as genes coding for functions related to T3SS, cell wall degradation and resistance to heavy metals. We also present the analysis of previously reported data on the expression of cargo genes related to the virulence of P. atrosepticum ICEs, which evidences the role of these genes in the infection process of tobacco plants.

Conclusions

Altogether, this paper has highlighted the potential of ICEs to affect the pathogenicity and lifestyle of these phytopathogens and direct the spread of significant putative virulence genes in phytopathogenic bacteria.
Nanoemulsion and nanogel containing Artemisia dracunculus essential oil; larvicidal effect and antibacterial activity
Authors: Osanloo Mahmoud , Firooziyan Samira , Abdollahi Abbas , Hatami Shekoufeh , Nematollahi Amene , Elahi Narges , Zarenezhad Elham
Published: August 2022

Objective

Microbial infections and mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, with 627 k deaths in 2020, are still major public health challenges.

Results

This study prepared nanoemulsion and nanogel containing Artemisia dracunculus essential oil. ATR-FTIR analysis (Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform InfraRed) confirmed the successful loading of the essential oil in nanoemulsion and nanogel. LC50 values (Lethal Concentration 50%) of nanogel and nanoemulsion against Anopheles stephensi larvae were obtained as 6.68 (2–19 µg/mL) and 13.53 (7–25 µg/mL). Besides, the growth of Staphylococcus aureus after treatment with 5000 μg/mL nanogel and nanoemulsion was reduced by ~ 70%. However, about 20% growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was reduced at this dose. Considering the proper efficacy of the nanogel as a larvicide and proper antibacterial effect against S. aureus, it could be considered for further investigations against other mosquitoes’ larvae and gram-positive bacteria.
Utilization of FMOC-3F-PHE hydrogel for encapsulation of Zanthoxylum armatum and Cinnamomum camphora oil for enhancing their antibacterial activity
Authors: Shakya Nasla , Budha Chettri S. , Joshi Susan , Rajbhandary Annada
Published: August 2022

Objective

While essential oils have many applications in medicine, not many studies have been done in the past to address issues of active targeting, enhancing bioavailability and reducing toxicity at higher concentrations. Herein, we used Fmoc-3F-Phe amino acid hydrogels to address such issues by encapsulating essential oils, Zanthoxylum armatum and Cinnamomum camphora, in its system and allowing sustained-release of these oils onto bacterial assays of E. coli ATCC 25922, P. hauseri NBRC 3851, M. luteus KACC 13377, and B. subtilis ATCC 66333 for probing enhanced antibacterial properties of the oils by prolonging its efficacy through controlled-release mechanism.

Results

We found that while Zanthoxylum oil showed no particular difference in enhancing the antibacterial property against the three fast growing bacteria, however profound variation was observed against slow growing bacteria B. subtilis. The hydrogel encapsulated oil was able to retain its antibacterial property for a longer time while directly applied oil could not for this bacteria. Even for highly volatile camphor oil, the oil itself failed to show any antibacterial property with direct use, however the hydrogel encapsulated oil was able to show excellent antibacterial property for B. subtilis and M. luteus through prohibition of sublimation via encapsulation.
The therapeutic effects of autologous conditioned serum on knee osteoarthritis: an animal model
Authors: Pishgahi Alireza , Zamani Majid , Mehdizadeh Amir , Roshangar Leila , Afkham-Daghdaghan Milad , Pourabbas Behzad , Yousefi Mehdi
Published: August 2022

Objective

As a progressive chronic condition, osteoarthritis (OA) causes substantial pain and impairment. Secrete proinflammatory cytokines are essential mediators involved in the pathophysiology of OA. In this regard, the clinical effectiveness of autologous conditioned serum (ASC) has been shown through its injection into OA tissues. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and concentration level of ACS components produced by Nano-carbon glass beads.

Intravenous whole blood was obtained from each New Zealand male rabbit by 10-ml syringes, comprising 33 medical-grade Nano carbon-coated glass beads. Serum retrieving was performed after 6–8 h incubation (37 C, 5% Co2), and then centrifuged. The ACS was then injected into OA rabbits to assess its function.

Results

Glass beads-prepared ACS coated with Nano-carbon, induced a huge amount of cytokines and growth factors production. The concentration level of anti-inflammatory cytokines and proinflammatory cytokines was improved throughout Nano-carbon coated glass beads stimulation. ACS also shortened the recovery time and improved the function and mobility of OA rabbits.

We showed that ACS improved the function and mobility of OA rabbits, as well as shortened the recovery time. It is suggested that further studies evaluate this effectiveness.
Mesenchymal stem cells and their derived small extracellular vesicles for COVID-19 treatment
Authors: Huang Yuling , Li Xin , Yang Lina
Published: August 2022

Since December 2019, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has imposed huge burdens to the whole world, seriously affecting global economic growth, and threatening people’s lives and health. At present, some therapeutic regimens are available for treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia, including antiviral therapy, immunity therapy, anticoagulant therapy, and others. Among them, injection of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is currently a promising therapy. The preclinical studies and clinical trials using MSCs and small extracellular vesicles derived from MSCs (MSC-sEVs) in treating COVID-19 were summarized. Then, the molecular mechanism, feasibility, and safety of treating COVID-19 with MSCs and MSC-sEVs were also discussed.
Current methodologies in protein ubiquitination characterization: from ubiquitinated protein to ubiquitin chain architecture
Authors: Sun Mingwei , Zhang Xiaofei
Published: August 2022

Ubiquitination is a versatile post-translational modification (PTM), which regulates diverse fundamental features of protein substrates, including stability, activity, and localization. Unsurprisingly, dysregulation of the complex interaction between ubiquitination and deubiquitination leads to many pathologies, such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. The versatility of ubiquitination is a result of the complexity of ubiquitin (Ub) conjugates, ranging from a single Ub monomer to Ub polymers with different length and linkage types. To further understand the molecular mechanism of ubiquitination signaling, innovative strategies are needed to characterize the ubiquitination sites, the linkage type, and the length of Ub chain. With advances in chemical biology tools, computational methodologies, and mass spectrometry, protein ubiquitination sites and their Ub chain architecture have been extensively revealed. The obtained information on protein ubiquitination helps to crack the molecular mechanism of ubiquitination in numerous pathologies. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in protein ubiquitination analysis to gain updated knowledge in this field. In addition, the current and future challenges and barriers are also reviewed and discussed.
The association between social integration and neighborhood dissatisfaction and unsafety: a cross-sectional survey study among social housing residents in Denmark
Authors: Srivarathan Abirami , Kristiansen Maria , Jørgensen Terese Sara Høj , Lund Rikke
Published: August 2022

Background

Social integration and perceived neighborhood environment are recognized as important social determinants of health. However, little is known about the association between social integration and perceived neighborhood environment among underrepresented population groups, such as residents in disadvantaged neighborhoods, in public health research. The aim of this study is to: 1) Describe the levels of social integration and 2) Investigate the association between social integration and neighborhood dissatisfaction and unsafety among middle-aged and older social housing residents.

Methods

A multilingual face-to-face interviewer-administrated survey questionnaire was conducted among 206 residents aged 45 years and above (response rate: 34.1%) of various nationalities in disadvantaged socioeconomic positions in a social housing area in Denmark. The assessment of social integration was based on cohabitation status, frequency of face-to-face and non-face-to-face interaction with social relations and participation in local association activities. Neighborhood dissatisfaction measured the level of dissatisfaction with the neighborhood, and neighborhood unsafety assessed the level of unsafety being outdoors in the neighborhood. Descriptive statistics were conducted to illustrate respondent characteristics and the distribution of social integration among the study population. Logistic regression models were applied to analyze associations between social integration and neighborhood dissatisfaction and unsafety, adjusted for age, sex, country of origin, educational attainment and employment status.

Results

In total, 23.8% of the respondents reported low levels of social integration. A medium level of social integration was associated with higher odds of neighborhood dissatisfaction (OR: 2.36; 95% CI: 1.04–5.38) compared to the highest level of integration. A low frequency of face-to-face interaction was associated with higher odds of neighborhood dissatisfaction (OR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.16–6.06) and neighborhood unsafety (OR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.04–5.57) compared to the highest frequency of face-to-face interaction.

Conclusions

Almost one-fourth of respondents reported low levels of social integration. A medium level of social integration was associated with neighborhood dissatisfaction. A low frequency of face-to-face interaction was associated with neighborhood dissatisfaction and unsafety. The results suggest that targeted health promotion interventions designed to foster face-to-face interaction, hold potential to reduce neighborhood dissatisfaction and unsafety among residents in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Chemical profile and beneficial effect of standardized extract of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni leaves on metabolic syndrome in high fat diet streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Kamal Nagham H. , Essmat Ahmed , El Askary Hesham I. , El Hefnawy Hala M. , Wahab Samia M. Abdel , Meselhy Meselhy R.
Published: August 2022

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) is a natural zero calorie sweetener with significant economic and medicinal values due to its high contents of steviosides (SVGs) in the leaves. The aqueous extract of Stevia leaves (TAqE) was standardized to contain 8.5% w/w of SVGs (HPLC), total phenolics (164.63 ± 1.39 µg Gallic acid/mg extract) and total flavonoids of 100.5 ± 0.79 µg QE/mg extract. Twenty-one compounds were tentatively identified in the leaves via UPLC-Orbitrap HRMS and stevioside, rebaudioside A, and quercetrin were isolated from TAqE by repeated column chromatography. Stevioside showed significant inhibition of pancreatic lipase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase enzymes. The effect of a standardized TAqE on high fat diet (HFD)-streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats was investigated. Thirty-six animals were divided into 6 groups (each of 6). Rats in group I (control) and group II (control/HFD-STZ) received distilled water, and rats in groups III and IV received TAqE for 4 weeks in two doses; 300 mg/kg b.wt., and 500 mg/kg b.wt., respectively. Rats in group V received metformin (200 mg/kg), while those in group VI received statin (1 mg/kg). Body weight, fasting blood glucose, lipid profile (total cholesterol and triglycerides), liver enzymes (alanine transaminase and aspartic transaminase), and serum kidney parameters (urea and creatinine) were decreased in rats treated with TAqE (300 mg/kg b.wt.), while insulin sensitivity was enhanced, when compared to that in group II. These findings could justify the use of Stevia as a complementary medicine for the prevention and treatment of metabolic changes associated with diabetes mellitus type 2.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG ameliorates DON-induced intestinal damage depending on the enrichment of beneficial bacteria in weaned piglets
Authors: Bai Yongsong , Ma Kaidi , Li Jibo , Ren Zhongshuai , Zhang Jing , Shan Anshan
Published: August 2022

Background

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the most common environmental pollutants that induces intestinal inflammation and microbiota dysbiosis. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a probiotic that not only has anti-inflammatory effects, but also shows protective effect on the intestinal barrier. However, it is still unknown whether LGG exerts beneficial effects against DON-induced intestinal damage in piglets. In this work, a total of 36 weaned piglets were randomized to one of four treatment groups for 21 d. The treatment groups were CON (basal diet); LGG (basal diet supplemented with 1.77 × 1011 CFU/kg LGG); DON (DON-contaminated diet) and LGG + DON (DON-contaminated diet supplemented with 1.77 × 1011 CFU/kg LGG).

Result

Supplementation of LGG can enhance growth performance of piglets exposed to DON by improving intestinal barrier function. LGG has a mitigating effect on intestinal inflammation induced by DON exposure, largely through repression of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Furthermore, supplementation of LGG increased the relative abundances of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Collinsella, Lactobacillus, Ruminococcus_torques_group and Anaerofustis), and decreased the relative abundances of harmful bacteria (e.g., Parabacteroides and Ruminiclostridium_6), and also promoted the production of SCFAs.

Conclusions

LGG ameliorates DON-induced intestinal damage, which may provide theoretical support for the application of LGG to alleviate the adverse effects induced by DON exposure.
The effect of ensiled paulownia leaves in a high-forage diet on ruminal fermentation, methane production, fatty acid composition, and milk production performance of dairy cows
Authors: Huang Haihao , Lechniak Dorota , Szumacher-Strabel Malgorzata , Patra Amlan Kumar , Kozłowska Martyna , Kolodziejski Pawel , Gao Min , Ślusarczyk Sylwester , Petrič Daniel , Cieslak Adam
Published: August 2022

Background

The use of industrial by-products rich in bioactive compounds as animal feeds can reduce greenhouse gas production. Paulownia leaves silage (PLS) was supplemented to dairy cows' diet and evaluated in vitro (Exp. 1; Rusitec) and in vivo (Exp. 2, cannulated lactating dairy cows and Exp. 3, non-cannulated lactating dairy cows). The study investigated the PLS effect on ruminal fermentation, microbial populations, methane production and concentration, dry matter intake (DMI), and fatty acid (FA) proportions in ruminal fluid and milk.

Results

Several variables of the ruminal fluid were changed in response to the inclusion of PLS. In Exp. 1, the pH increased linearly and quadratically, whereas ammonia and total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations increased linearly and cubically. A linear, quadratic, and cubical decrease in methane concentration was observed with increasing dose of the PLS. Exp. 2 revealed an increase in ruminal pH and ammonia concentrations, but no changes in total VFA concentration. Inclusion of PLS increased ruminal propionate (at 3 h and 6 h after feeding), isovalerate, and valerate concentrations. Addition of PLS also affected several populations of the analyzed microorganisms. The abundances of protozoa and bacteria were increased, whereas the abundance of archaea were decreased by PLS. Methane production decreased by 11% and 14% in PLS-fed cows compared to the control in Exp. 2 and 3, respectively. Exp. 3 revealed a reduction in the milk protein and lactose yield in the PLS-fed cows, but no effect on DMI and energy corrected milk yield. Also, the PLS diet affected the ruminal biohydrogenation process with an increased proportions of C18:3 cis-9 cis-12 cis-15, conjugated linoleic acid, C18:1 trans-11 FA, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and reduced n6/n3 ratio and saturated fatty acids (SFA) proportion in milk. The relative transcript abundances of the 5 of 6 analyzed genes regulating FA metabolism increased.

Conclusions

The dietary PLS replacing the alfalfa silage at 60 g/kg diet can reduce the methane emission and improve milk quality with greater proportions of PUFA, including conjugated linoleic acid, and C18:1 trans-11 along with reduction of SFA.

Graphical Abstract

Graphical abstract of the experimental roadmap
Mediating effect of sleep disturbance and rumination on work-related burnout of nurses treating patients with coronavirus disease
Authors: Zarei Salman , Fooladvand Khadijeh
Published: August 2022

Background

COVID-19 has created significant and unprecedented psychological distress on nurses working with COVID-19 patients. Nurses dealing with such psychological distress are prone to burnout. This study examined the mediating role of sleep disturbance and rumination in the association between psychological distress and work-related burnout of nurses treating COVID-19 patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from 26th February to 16th March 2021, on a sample of 250 nurses who were actively working during the COVID-19 pandemic in five referral hospitals in Tehran, Iran. The Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Ruminative Responses Scale were used to collect data. Data analysis was based on pearson’ correlation analysis and path analysis.

Results

Psychological distress has a significant effect on job burnout. When sleep disturbances were modeled as a mediator, path coefficients of psychological distress showed a significant effect on job burnout. Also, according to the findings, rumination poses a significant mediating effect on the association between psychological distress and job burnout.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the importance of designing psychological interventions intended to reduce sleep disturbances and rumination when experiencing stressful events to avoid job burnout among nurses.
The wide variety of reasons for feeling guilty in adults: findings from a large cross-sectional web-based survey
Authors: Luck Tobias , Luck-Sikorski Claudia
Published: August 2022

Background

Experiencing some sort of guilt is a common phenomenon in adulthood. As feeling guilty is usually unpleasant and may even lead to further negative psychological consequences like depression, the aim of this study was to provide comprehensive information on the reasons for such feelings in adults.

Methods

A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted between May 2019 and April 2020, collecting qualitative information on reasons for feeling guilty in n = 604 adults (mean/SD age = 45.3/16.4 years; n = 346/57.3% women, n = 255/42.2% men and n = 3/0.5% adults without identification with a particular gender). Stated reasons were inductively classified into (super-)/categories, and information on frequency and percentage (total, gender- and age-specific) for each of these (super-)/categories was provided.

Results

Participants altogether stated 1515 reasons for feeling guilty that were classified into 12 supercategories and 49 categories. “Telling lies/withholding truth/information” followed by “Not spending (enough) time with family (members)/Not taking (enough) care of family (members)/not being there for family (members)” were the most frequent categories of reasons for feeling guilty in the sample. Guilt feelings explicitly referring to “religious beliefs” or a “subjectively perceived more general responsibility’” (e.g., for society, humankind, problems of the world), by contrast, were of minor importance. Male and female participants as well as participants of different ages showed similarities but also several differences in stated reasons for feeling guilty. Female participants, for example, more often experienced feelings of guilt related to family members, children and to some kind of general responsibility for the wellbeing of others, whereas male participants felt guilty more often because of some kind of misconduct/mistakes being made or because of difficulties in marriage/relationship.

Conclusions

Adults can feel guilty for a wide variety of different reasons. Most reasons seem to be rather concrete (e.g., related to concrete negative self-attributions/flaws or to concrete social situations with concrete individuals). There also seem to be some age- and gender-related differences in reasons for feeling guilty.
Young people’s participation experiences of technical and vocational education and training interventions in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review of qualitative evidence
Authors: Shi Yi , Bangpan Mukdarut
Published: August 2022

Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) has attracted wide attention with its potential to alleviate poverty and improve youth employment in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, no agreement has been reached on its impact on participants’ wellbeing and livelihoods. Most previous reviews were restricted to economic and employment-related outcomes through statistical meta-analyses and failed to examine participants’ comprehensive experiences. This systematic review investigated young people’s learning process and consequences of TVET participation in LMICs by reviewing qualitative evidence across 31 published and unpublished studies from 2000 to 2019. Adopting a framework thematic synthesis approach, this study revealed that TVET participation had a multi-dimensional impact on young people’s cultural capital (skills and knowledge, credentials and socio-emotional competencies), social capital (bonding, bridging and linking social relationships), aspirations, and health, beyond economic consequences. Participants’ mixed experiences were collectively shaped by multiple factors, including intervention features, intervention quality (curriculum and content, instructor and instruction, administration and management), learning environment (physical environment, instructor-learner relationship and peer relationship), individual characteristics, and social norms. Findings also indicated that disadvantaged youth particularly benefitted from TVET participation, which highlighted the potential of TVET to improve education access and equity. A framework was distilled from evidence synthesis to inform future research and practice that aim to design, implement and evaluate TVET in a way to enhance young people’s overall wellbeing in the developing context.
Olfactory proteins of Endoclita signifer larvae and their roles in host recognition
Authors: Hu Ping , Qiu Zhisong , Chen Xiao , Xu Yuan , SU Xiaoyan , Yang Zhende
Published: August 2022

Background

Endoclita signifer causes severe damage to eucalyptus plantations, and the larvae transfer to and damage eucalyptus accurately in mixed forests, suggesting that the larval olfactory system contributes to host selection. The olfactory proteins in the head and tegument of E. signifer larvae were previously identified. To identify the relationship between olfactory protein expression in the larval head the larvae head and the developmental expression dynamics, and its functions in further recognition of plant volatiles, the head transcriptomes of two instar larvae and the expression profiles of olfactory proteins in the instars after exposure to volatiles were studied.

Results

Eight odorant-binding proteins, six chemosensory proteins, three odorant receptors, three gustatory receptors, and 18 ionotropic receptors were identified. Half of the olfactory proteins were the most highly expressed in the young (5th) larval head, and EsigGOBP2, EsigGOBP4, EsigGOBP5, EsigCSP1, EsigCSP3, EsigGR1 and EsigGR3 were highly expressed and showed a specific expression pattern. In addition, after exposure to o-cymene, α-phellandrene, n-butyl ether, and 4-ethylacetophenone, EsigGR3 was downregulated significantly, and exposure to n-butyl ether caused EsigGR1 to be downregulated significantly.

Conclusions

Seven specific olfactory proteins may be important genes in larval olfactory recognition. Furthermore, based on the receptors that were downregulated after exposure to volatiles and the previous electrophysiological activity in the third larvae, we speculated that the ligand of EsigGR1 was n-butyl ether, and the ligands of the newly identified EsigGR3 are all electrophysiologically active compounds, which demonstrated host recognition in the third larvae of E. signifer. These results provide a way to find key plant volatiles recognized by the key olfactory proteins as new targets for pest control.

Graphical Abstract
Green synthesized silver nanoparticles using Cyperus rotundus L. extract as a potential antiviral agent against infectious laryngotracheitis and infectious bronchitis viruses in chickens
Authors: Abo-El-Yazid Zahraa Hamdi , Ahmed Osama Konsowa , El-Tholoth Mohamed , Ali Mohamed Abdel-Shakur
Published: August 2022

Background

Infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) and infectious bronchitis (IB) are two common respiratory diseases of poultry that inflict great economic burden on the poultry industry. Developing an effective agent against both viruses is a crucial step to decrease the economic losses. Therefore, for the first time green synthesized silver nanoparticles using Cyperus rotundus L. aqueous extract was evaluated in vitro as a potential antiviral against both viruses.

Results

Silver nanoparticles from Cyperus rotundus were characterized by the spherical shape, 11–19 nm size, and zeta potential of − 6.04 mV. The maximum nontoxic concentration (MNTC) was 50 µg mL−1 for both viruses without harmful toxicity impact. The study suggested that some of the compounds in C. rotundus extract (gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and naringenin) or its silver nanoparticles could interact with the external envelope proteins of both viruses, and inhibiting extracellular viruses.

Conclusions

The results highlight that C. rotundus green synthesized silver nanoparticles could have antiviral activity against infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) and infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in chickens.

Graphical Abstract
Augmented reality learning environment to aid engineering students in performing practical laboratory experiments in electronics engineering
Authors: Tuli Neha , Singh Gurjinder , Mantri Archana , Sharma Shivam
Published: August 2022

In an era where technology is being used more and more in daily life, the potential and effective use of technology is becoming increasingly vital in education. Engineering education necessitates the use of technology to assist students in understanding abstract concepts and principles. Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that can be used to create effective and engaging technology-based solutions and instructional materials. This research aims to develop an augmented reality-based learning experience to teach students about electronics engineering concepts and determine the impact of AR intervention on students' academic achievement levels, learning attitudes toward the subject, and individual attitudes toward AR technology. A quasi-experimental research design was used on 107 first-year engineering students who were grouped into control and experimental groups. The control group consisted of 53 students who learned the fundamentals of electronics using existing techniques, while experimental group consisted of 54 students who learned the same subject using an Augmented Reality-based Lab Manual. The experimental outcomes indicate that the experimental group performed better in the post-test and obtained higher academic scores compared to the control group. In addition, AR intervention has a substantial positive effect on students' learning attitudes. The study also found that students' learning attitudes towards electronics courses and their academic achievement have a significant positive relationship. Additionally, there is a correlation between a student's academic achievement and their attitude toward AR technology. As a result, students who studied using AR technology had a more optimistic perspective about the electronics course and AR technology.
Source mechanism of volcanic tectonic events from October 2010 to December 2011 at the Sinabung volcano area
Authors: Afnimar  , Hidayat Ary , Kristianto  , Triastuty Hetty , Basuki Ahmad , Indrastuti Novianti
Published: August 2022

From its first eruption at the end of August 2010, Mount Sinabung has been being seismically active. Thousands of micro earthquakes have occurred in the magma itself, in hydrothermal systems, and along nearby tectonic faults. The installation of a three-component seismometer network around the Sinabung volcano from October 2010 to December 2011 has encouraged more detailed study of the source characteristics of micro earthquakes. In this study, we conduct a focal mechanism analysis of volcanic tectonic (VT) activity during this period. This study delineates three kinds of faults around the volcano. First, a possible oblique-strike-slip fault that was “cut” by the volcano is confirmed. The fault parameters are a strike of 44.76°, a dip of 67.83° and a rake of 19.7°. Second, a normal-faulting zone associated with Kawar Lake is parametrized by a strike, dip and rake of 5.8°, 77.4°, and − 113.2°, respectively. Third, a clear hidden oblique strike-slip was found at the north-west part of the summit. The fault lineation is shown clearly by its hypocentre distribution and is parameterized by its strike of 213.15°, dip of 77.72°, and rake of − 20.04°.
Prostate cancer–Exercise and Metformin Trial (Pre-EMpT): study protocol for a feasibility factorial randomized controlled trial in men with localised or locally advanced prostate cancer
Authors: McGeagh Lucy , Robles Luke A. , Persad Raj , Rowe Edward , Bahl Amit , Aning Jonathan , Koupparis Anthony , Abrams Paul , Perks Claire , Holly Jeffrey , Johnson Lyndsey , Shiridzinomwa Constance , Challapalli Amarnath , Shingler Ellie , Taylor Hilary , Oxley Jon , Sandu Meda , Martin Richard M. , Lane J. Athene
Published: August 2022

Background

Evidence from observational studies have shown that moderate intensity physical activity can reduce risk of progression and cancer-specific mortality in participants with prostate cancer. Epidemiological studies have also shown participants taking metformin to have a reduced risk of prostate cancer. However, data from randomised controlled trials supporting the use of these interventions are limited. The Prostate cancer–Exercise and Metformin Trial examines that feasibility of randomising participants diagnosed with localised or locally advanced prostate cancer to interventions that modify physical activity and blood glucose levels. The primary outcomes are randomisation rates and adherence to the interventions over 6 months. The secondary outcomes include intervention tolerability and retention rates, measures of insulin-like growth factor I, prostate-specific antigen, physical activity, symptom-reporting, and quality of life.

Methods

Participants are randomised in a 2 × 2 factorial design to both a physical activity (brisk walking or control) and a pharmacological (metformin or control) intervention. Participants perform the interventions for 6 months with final measures collected at 12 months follow-up.

Discussion

Our trial will determine whether participants diagnosed with localised or locally advanced prostate cancer, who are scheduled for radical treatments or being monitored for signs of cancer progression, can be randomised to a 6 months physical activity and metformin intervention. The findings from our trial will inform a larger trial powered to examine the clinical benefits of these interventions.

Trial registration

Prostate Cancer Exercise and Metformin Trial (Pre-EMpT) is registered on the ISRCTN registry, reference number ISRCTN13543667. Date of registration 2nd August 2018–retrospectively registered. First participant was recruited on 11th September 2018.
Skin thickness affects the result of tuberculin skin test in systemic sclerosis
Authors: So-ngern Apichart , Mahakkanukrauh Ajanee , Suwannaroj Siraphop , Nanagara Ratanavadee , Foocharoen Chingching
Published: August 2022

Background

Skin thickness is a prominent clinical feature of systemic sclerosis (SSc), but there is no consensus on the cut-off for a positive tuberculin skin test (TST) size and the limitation of the TST for a diagnosis of tuberculosis in SSc. We aimed to identify the cut-off size of an indurated TST and the sensitivity and specificity of the test for the diagnosis of tuberculosis in SSc patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 168 adult Thai SSc patients was conducted. The TST was done using 0.1 ml of purified protein derivatives via intradermal injection. The test was interpreted 72 h after testing.

Results

The median age was 57.2 years. The majority (71.8%) had the diffuse cutaneous SSc subset. All the patients had a BCG vaccination at birth, and 17 (10.1%) had a tuberculosis infection. An indurated skin reaction size of 20 mm had the highest specificity for tuberculosis (99.3%: 95%CI 96.4–100) (ROC 0.53). The skin thickness—assessed using the modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS)—had a significant negative correlation with the reaction size (Rho -0.23; p = 0.003).

Conclusion

The TST is not sufficiently sensitive for detecting TB infection in SSc patients, albeit a skin induration of ≥ 15 mm indicates a high specificity for tuberculosis infection. A high mRSS resulted in a smaller skin reaction size when using the TST, which has limited utility as a diagnostic for tuberculosis among SSc patients with severe skin thickness.

The manuscript was presented as a poster presentation at the Annual European Congress of Rheumatology EULAR 2019 Madrid 12–15 June 2019. (Ann Rheum Dis. 2019;78(suppl 2): abstract FRI0347) http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-eular.1456
The effect of intravenous infusion of dexmedetomidine versus lidocaine as an analgesic adjuvant to balanced general anesthesia and enhanced recovery after abdominal surgery
Authors: Ibrahim Fatma Hassan , Mohamed Soheir Abbas , Hamid Hadeel Magdy Abd El , Rabie Amal Hamed , Derh Maha Sadek El
Published: August 2022

Background

Intravenous dexmedetomidine and lidocaine have been shown to decrease perioperative surgical pain and analgesic consumption and facilitate the return of bowel function, decreasing post-operative hospitalization.

Results

On the first post-operative day, VAS score and total consumption of narcotics were statistically insignificant between the two groups. Heart rate and mean arterial pressure were significantly lower in the dexmedetomidine group than in the Lidocaine group all through the surgery (p value < 0.001). Post-operative nausea and vomiting were statistically higher in group D than in group L (p value 0.001).

Conclusions

The administration of either lidocaine or dexmedetomidine did not show superiority in post-operative analgesia or perioperative narcotics consumption. However, lidocaine infusion showed less drug-related side effects from the aspect of intraoperative hemodynamics stability, post-operative ileus, nausea, and vomiting.
Development and Validation of the PREMMplus Model for Multigene Hereditary Cancer Risk Assessment
Authors: Yurgelun Matthew B. , Uno Hajime , Furniss C. Sloane , Ukaegbu Chinedu , Horiguchi Miki , Yussuf Amal , LaDuca Holly , Chittenden Anu , Garber Judy E. , Syngal Sapna
Published: August 2022

PURPOSE

With the availability of multigene panel testing (MGPT) for hereditary cancer risk assessment, clinicians need to assess the likelihood of pathogenic germline variants (PGVs) across numerous genes in parallel. This study's aim was to develop and validate a clinical prediction model (PREMMplus) for MGPT risk assessment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PREMMplus was developed in a single-institution cohort of 7,280 individuals who had undergone MGPT. Logistic regression models with Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regularization were used to examine candidate predictors (age, sex, ethnicity, and personal/family history of 18 cancers/neoplasms) to estimate one's likelihood of carrying PGVs in 19 genes (broadly categorized by phenotypic overlap and/or relative penetrance: 11 category A [
APC
,
BRCA1
/
2
,
CDH1
,
EPCAM
,
MLH1
,
MSH2
,
MSH6
, biallelic
MUTYH
,
PMS2
, and
TP53
] and eight category B genes [
ATM
,
BRIP1
,
CDKN2A
,
CHEK2
,
PALB2
,
PTEN
,
RAD51C
, and
RAD51D
]). Model performance was validated in nonoverlapping data sets of 8,691 and 14,849 individuals with prior MGPT ascertained from clinic- and laboratory-based settings, respectively.

RESULTS

PREMMplus (score ≥ 2.5%) had 93.9%, 91.7%, and 89.3% sensitivity and 98.3%, 97.5%, and 97.8% negative-predictive value (NPV) for identifying category A gene PGV carriers in the development and validation cohorts, respectively. PREMMplus assessment (score ≥ 2.5%) had 89.9%, 85.6%, and 84.2% sensitivity and 95.0%, 93.5%, and 93.5% NPV, respectively, for identifying category A/B gene PGV carriers. Decision curve analyses support MGPT for individuals predicted to have ≥ 2.5% probability of a PGV.

CONCLUSION

PREMMplus accurately identifies individuals with PGVs in a diverse spectrum of cancer susceptibility genes with high sensitivity/NPV. Individuals with PREMMplus scores ≥ 2.5% should be considered for MGPT.
Cascade Testing for Hereditary Cancer Syndromes: Should We Move Toward Direct Relative Contact? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Frey Melissa K. , Ahsan Muhammad Danyal , Bergeron Hannah , Lin Jenny , Li Xuan , Fowlkes Rana K. , Narayan Priyanka , Nitecki Roni , Rauh-Hain Jose Alejandro , Moss Haley A. , Baltich Nelson Becky , Thomas Charlene , Christos Paul J. , Hamilton Jada G. , Chapman-Davis Eloise , Cantillo Evelyn , Holcomb Kevin , Kurian Allison W. , Lipkin Steven , Offit Kenneth , Sharaf Ravi N.
Published: August 2022

PURPOSE

Evidence-based guidelines recommend cascade genetic counseling and testing for hereditary cancer syndromes, providing relatives the opportunity for early detection and prevention of cancer. The current standard is for patients to contact and encourage relatives (patient-mediated contact) to undergo counseling and testing. Direct relative contact by the medical team or testing laboratory has shown promise but is complicated by privacy laws and lack of infrastructure. We sought to compare outcomes associated with patient-mediated and direct relative contact for hereditary cancer cascade genetic counseling and testing in the first meta-analysis on this topic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PROSPERO No.: CRD42020134276). We searched key electronic databases to identify studies evaluating hereditary cancer cascade testing. Eligible trials were subjected to meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven studies met inclusion criteria. Among relatives included in the meta-analysis, 48% (95% CI, 38 to 58) underwent cascade genetic counseling and 41% (95% CI, 34 to 48) cascade genetic testing. Compared with the patient-mediated approach, direct relative contact resulted in significantly higher uptake of genetic counseling for all relatives (63% [95% CI, 49 to 75] v 35% [95% CI, 24 to 48]) and genetic testing for first-degree relatives (62% [95% CI, 49 to 73] v 40% [95% CI, 32 to 48]). Methods of direct contact included telephone calls, letters, and e-mails; respective rates of genetic testing completion were 61% (95% CI, 51 to 70), 48% (95% CI, 37 to 59), and 48% (95% CI, 45 to 50).

CONCLUSION

Most relatives at risk for hereditary cancer do not undergo cascade genetic counseling and testing, forgoing potentially life-saving medical interventions. Compared with patient-mediated contact, direct relative contact increased rates of cascade genetic counseling and testing, arguing for a shift in the care delivery paradigm, to be confirmed by randomized controlled trials.
Seizure Outcome of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Surgery in Adults and Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Barba Carmen , Giometto Sabrina , Lucenteforte Ersilia , Pellacani Simona , Matta Giulia , Bettiol Alessandra , Minghetti Sara , Falorni Lavinia , Melani Federico , Di Giacomo Gianpiero , Giordano Flavio , De Masi Salvatore , Guerrini Renzo
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND:

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) surgery is associated with the best seizure outcome in adults, although its long-term results remain suboptimal. Retrospective pediatric studies suggest better figures whose determinants are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE:

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on the efficacy of TLE surgery in children (age younger than 18 years) and adults.

METHODS:

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library for TLE surgery original research from January 1, 1990, until May 12, 2020. The outcome measures were seizure freedom since surgery and seizure freedom either at last or longest follow-up. We meta-analyzed the proportion of children and adults achieving either Engel I/International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) 1 or Engel IA/ILAE 1A outcome by follow-up duration, type of surgery, histopathology, neuroimaging, quality of the studies, and publication period. We used a random effects model with Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation of proportions.

RESULTS:

From 40 409 records identified, we included 277 studies (30 848 patients). The proportions of patients achieving Engel I/ILAE 1 and Engel IA/ILAE 1A outcomes were 0.74 (95% CI, 0.69-0.78) and 0.61 (0.48-0.74) for children and 0.69 (0.67-0.71) and 0.56 (0.52-0.60) for adults. Histopathology significantly influenced Engel I/ILAE 1 outcome in adults but not in children (P < .0001), while the type of surgery significantly influenced Engel I/ILAE 1 outcome in children but not in adults.

CONCLUSION:

The proportion of seizure freedom after TLE surgery was higher in children, although not significantly. Histopathology and the surgical approach can influence seizure outcome, with age-related variability.
DAP5 drives translation of specific mRNA targets with upstream ORFs in human embryonic stem cells
Authors: David Maya , Olender Tsviya , Mizrahi Orel , Weingarten-Gabbay Shira , Friedlander Gilgi , Meril Sara , Goldberg Nadav , Savidor Alon , Levin Yishai , Salomon Vered , Stern-Ginossar Noam , Bialik Shani , Kimchi Adi
Published: August 2022

Death associated protein 5 (DAP5/eIF4G2/NAT1) is a member of the eIF4G translation initiation factors that has been shown to mediate noncanonical and/or cap-independent translation. It is essential for embryonic development and for differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs), specifically its ability to drive translation of specific target mRNAs. In order to expand the repertoire of DAP5 target mRNAs, we compared ribosome profiles in control and DAP5 knockdown (KD) human ESCs (hESCs) to identify mRNAs with decreased ribosomal occupancy upon DAP5 silencing. A cohort of 68 genes showed decreased translation efficiency in DAP5 KD cells. Mass spectrometry confirmed decreased protein abundance of a significant portion of these targets. Among these was KMT2D, a histone methylase previously shown to be essential for ESC differentiation and embryonic development. We found that nearly half of the cohort of DAP5 target mRNAs displaying reduced translation efficiency of their main coding sequences upon DAP5 KD contained upstream open reading frames (uORFs) that are actively translated independently of DAP5. This is consistent with previously suggested mechanisms by which DAP5 mediates leaky scanning through uORFs and/or reinitiation at the main coding sequence. Crosslinking protein–RNA immunoprecipitation experiments indicated that a significant subset of DAP5 mRNA targets bound DAP5, indicating that direct binding between DAP5 protein and its target mRNAs is a frequent but not absolute requirement for DAP5-dependent translation of the main coding sequence. Thus, we have extended DAP5's function in translation of specific mRNAs in hESCs by a mechanism allowing translation of the main coding sequence following upstream translation of short ORFs.