bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography characteristics of cystic retinal tuft
Authors: Li Haidong , Chen Lifeng , Wu Meng’ai , Zheng Bin
Published: October 2022

Objective

To investigate the characteristics of cystic retinal tufts (CRTs) with 55° widefield spectral-domain optical coherence tomography.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. All subjects underwent a complete ocular examination, ultra-widefield (UWF) pseudocolor fundus photography and Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) with a 55° widefield lens. The SD-OCT characteristics were analyzed in subjects with CRT.

Results

Twenty-six eyes of 25 subjects were scanned and 29 CRTs were analyzed for SD-OCT characteristics. On SD-OCT images, the CRTs exhibited hyperreflective irregular elevated lesions with internal hyporeflective cystoid cavities. Normal layers of the neuroepithelium could not be distinguished. The mean diameter of CRTs was 1022 microns (range, 117–3711 microns; standard deviation, 815 microns). There was vitreoretinal traction at the apex of CRTs. Among them, retinal tears in 24.14% (7/29), suspected retinal tears in 27.59% (8/29), and shallow neuroepithelium detachment in 31.03% (9/29).

Conclusions

The widefield SD-OCT imaging can provide detailed cross-sectional anatomic information of CRT and may guide clinical treatment.
Are perinatal measures associated with adolescent mental health? A retrospective exploration with original data from psychiatric cohorts
Authors: Basedow Lukas A. , Kuitunen-Paul Sören , Roessner Veit , Moll Gunther H. , Golub Yulia , Eichler Anna
Published: October 2022

Background

Perinatal markers of prenatal development are associated with offspring psychiatric symptoms. However, there is little research investigating the specificity of perinatal markers for the development of specific disorders. This study aimed to explore if perinatal markers are specifically associated with adolescent substance use disorder (SUDs).

Methods

Adolescent participants from two study centers, one for SUD patients (n = 196) and one for general psychopathology (n = 307), were recruited for participation. Since the SUD participants presented with a number of comorbid disorders, we performed a 1-on-1 matching procedure, based on age, gender, and specific pattern of comorbid disorders. This procedure resulted in n = 51 participants from each group. From all participants and their mothers we recorded perinatal markers (mode of birth, weeks of completed pregnancy, birth weight, Apgar score after 5 min) as well as intelligence quotient (IQ). The SUD sample additionally filled out the Youth Safe Report (YSR) as well as the PQ-16 and the DUDIT. We aimed to distinguish the two groups (SUD sample vs. general psychiatric sample) based on the perinatal variables via a logistic regression analysis. Additionally, linear regressions were performed for the total group and the subgroups to assess the relationship between perinatal variables and IQ, YSR, DUDIT and PQ-16.

Results

The perinatal variables were not able to predict group membership (X2 [4] = 4.77, p = .312, Cox & Snell R² = 0.053). Odds ratios indicated a small increase in probability to belonging to the general psychiatric sample instead of the SUD sample if birth was completed via C-section. After Bonferroni-correction, the linear regression models showed no relation between perinatal markers and IQ (p = .60, R² = 0.068), YSR (p = .09, R² = 0.121), DUDIT (p = .65, R² = 0.020), and PQ-16 (p = .73, R² =0.021).

Conclusion

Perinatal markers were not able to distinguish SUD patients from patients with diverse psychopathologies. This pattern contradicts previous findings, perhaps because our chosen markers reflect general processes instead of specific mechanistic explanations. Future studies should take care to investigate specific prenatal markers and associate them with psychopathology on the symptom level.
The development and validation of a family functioning measure for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults
Authors: Brinckley Makayla-May , Jones Roxanne , Batterham Philip J. , Calear Alison L. , Lovett Raymond
Published: October 2022

Background

Family and kinship networks are a key aspect of culture for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from Australia. They are intrinsically connected to good health and wellbeing, and cultural knowledge exchange. However, despite the known importance of family and kinship networks in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and the move towards family-centred approaches in healthcare service provision, there is no validated, national measure of family functioning for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. A valid tool to measure family functioning is necessary in order to better understand what fosters good family functioning, and to inform and develop programs and healthcare interventions.

Methods

Mayi Kuwayu: the National Study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing is a longitudinal cohort study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 16 years and over. An existing family functioning scale was modified for use in the Mayi Kuwayu Study to measure family functioning at the national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population level. This study used a national sample of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (N = 8705, ≥16 years) for the psychometric assessment of the modified Mayi Kuwayu Study Family Functioning Measure. This involved face validity, acceptability, internal consistency/reliability, construct validity, and convergent and divergent validity testing.

Results

Participants in this study were 8705 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with a mean age of 48 years, who primarily live in regional Australia (47.3%). The Mayi Kuwayu Family Functioning Measure demonstrated face validity for family functioning and had good internal consistency/reliability (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.90). Construct validity results were mixed, with an indication of uni-dimensionality (with one component explaining 59.5% of variance), but some item redundancy and inconsistency in responding patterns among groups of respondents. Balancing psychometric properties with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander expert and end-user feedback of the measure indicate that the full scale should be retained. Finally, the measure demonstrated strong convergent and divergent validity, with prevalence ratios exhibiting dose-response relationships between family functioning and conceptually related outcomes (convergent validity) and conceptually unrelated outcomes (divergent validity).

Conclusion

The Mayi Kuwayu Family Functioning Measure is a valid measure of family functioning in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adult population.
All-cause mortality risk in older patients with femoral neck fracture
Authors: Li Xin-ping , Zhang Ping , Zhu Shi-wen , Yang Ming-hui , Wu Xin-bao , Jiang Xie-yuan
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The mortality rate after hip fracture is high. However, the 1-year mortality rate after femoral intertrochanteric fracture and femoral neck fracture differs (Gibson-Smith D, Klop C, Elders PJ, Welsing PM, van Schoor N, Leufkens HG, et al., Osteoporos Int 25:2555-2563, 2014), although both are types of hip fracture. A previous real-world single-center prospective cohort study showed that older age and high Charlson comorbidity index score were risk factors for femoral intertrochanteric fracture. Additionally, therapy with zoledronic acid 5 mg (Aclasta) was a protective factor (Li XP, Zhang P, Zhu SW, Yang MH, Wu XB, Jiang XY, J Orthop Surg Res. 16:727, 2021). We wished to determine the risk factors for all-cause mortality in femoral neck fracture patients.

Aim

To identify the risk factors for postoperative all-cause mortality in aged patients with femoral neck fracture.

Materials and methods

We enrolled 307 aged patients with femoral neck fracture; 38 were lost to follow-up after 2–3 years. The patients’ general characteristics, bone mineral density, and anti-osteoporosis treatment after operation were recorded as potential risk factors. Kaplan–Meier curves and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to analyze the influence of each factor on all-cause mortality.

Results

This was a real-world single-center prospective cohort study showing that (1) most of the patients who died were male, older (mean age of the patients who died: 84.8 years vs. 77.9 years for survivors), and had more comorbidities compared with surviving patients. Previous fracture history, body mass index, femoral neck T score, hemoglobin and 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels did not differ significantly between patients who died vs. survived. (2) Differing from patients with intertrochanteric fractures, older patients with femoral neck fracture experienced no reduction in all-cause mortality with treatment with zoledronic acid.

Conclusion

In Chinese patients with femoral neck fracture, physicians should pay careful attention to male patients, older patients, and those with high numbers of comorbidities.
Short-term efficacy and adverse effects of collagenase clostridium histolyticum injections, percutaneous needle fasciotomy and limited fasciectomy in the treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Obed Doha , Salim Mustafa , Schlottmann Frederik , Bingoel Alperen S. , Panayi Adriana C. , Dastagir Khaled , Vogt Peter M. , Koenneker Soeren
Published: October 2022

Aims

Dupuytren’s contracture (DC) is a chronic debilitating fibroproliferative disorder.

Common treatment options include collagenase clostridium histolyticum injections (CI), percutaneous needle fasciotomy (NF) and limited fasciectomy (LF). Superiority of one specific treatment remains controversial. This study aims to assess the short-term efficacy and safety of CI, NF, and LF for the treatment of DC.

Methods

We included randomized controlled trials of CI compared with placebo, NF and LF for patients with DC. PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to August 2021. Contracture reduction rates in treated joints (within 0–5° of full extension within 30 days), relative reduction in total passive extension deficit (TPED), occurrence of one or more adverse events and number of treatment-related adverse events per patient were the outcomes of interest. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool was employed for quality assessment of the studies. A network meta-analysis was performed using MetaXL.

Results

Nine studies met our inclusion criteria (n = 903). Overall, risk bias was mixed and mostly low. Short term TPED reduction achieved with LF was superior compared to CI and NF. Although CI achieved greater TPED reduction compared to NF, it was associated with the highest risk of overall adverse effects. The analyzed data was limited to a maximum three-year follow-up period and therefore insufficient for long-term outcome evaluation.

Conclusions

In DC, LF may be able to provide patients with severe disease, superior flexion contracture release postoperatively. CI is a valid treatment alternative to NF, however the higher risk of overall adverse effects must be considered. The quality-of-evidence is limited due to short-term follow-up periods and a lack of standardized definitions of complications and adverse events.
Transposable element expansion and low-level piRNA silencing in grasshoppers may cause genome gigantism
Authors: Liu Xuanzeng , Majid Muhammad , Yuan Hao , Chang Huihui , Zhao Lina , Nie Yimeng , He Lang , Liu Xiaojing , He Xiaoting , Huang Yuan
Published: October 2022

Background

Transposable elements (TEs) have been likened to parasites in the genome that reproduce and move ceaselessly in the host, continuously enlarging the host genome. However, the Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway defends animal genomes against the harmful consequences of TE invasion by imposing small-RNA-mediated silencing. Here we compare the TE activity of two grasshopper species with different genome sizes in Acrididae (Locusta migratoria manilensis♀1C = 6.60 pg, Angaracris rhodopa♀1C = 16.36 pg) to ascertain the influence of piRNAs.

Results

We discovered that repetitive sequences accounted for 74.56% of the genome in A. rhodopa, more than 56.83% in L. migratoria, and the large-genome grasshopper contained a higher TEs proportions. The comparative analysis revealed that 41 TEs (copy number > 500) were shared in both species. The two species exhibited distinct “landscapes” of TE divergence. The TEs outbreaks in the small-genome grasshopper occurred at more ancient times, while the large-genome grasshopper maintains active transposition events in the recent past. Evolutionary history studies on TEs suggest that TEs may be subject to different dynamics and resistances in these two species. We found that TE transcript abundance was higher in the large-genome grasshopper and the TE-derived piRNAs abundance was lower than in the small-genome grasshopper. In addition, we found that the piRNA methylase HENMT, which is underexpressed in the large-genome grasshopper, impedes the piRNA silencing to a lower level.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that the abundance of piRNAs is lower in the gigantic genome grasshopper than in the small genome grasshopper. In addition, the key gene HENMT in the piRNA biogenesis pathway (Ping-Pong cycle) in the gigantic genome grasshopper is underexpressed. We hypothesize that low-level piRNA silencing unbalances the original positive correlation between TEs and piRNAs, and triggers TEs to proliferate out of control, which may be one of the reasons for the gigantism of grasshopper genomes.
Alcohol consumption and hepatocellular carcinoma: novel insights from a prospective cohort study and nonlinear Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Liu Zhenqiu , Song Ci , Suo Chen , Fan Hong , Zhang Tiejun , Jin Li , Chen Xingdong
Published: October 2022

Background

Heavy drinking was well associated with an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), whereas the effect of low-to-moderate drinking on HCC remains under debate.

Methods

Participants from the UK Biobank with detailed information on alcohol use and free of common diseases were included. Daily pure alcohol intake (g/day) was calculated, and the predominant alcoholic beverage type was assigned for each participant. Additive Cox regression model and nonlinear Mendelian randomization (NLMR) analyses were performed to evaluate the association of alcohol intake with HCC.

Results

Of 329,164 participants (52.3% females, mean [SD] age = 56.7 [8.0] years), 201 incident HCC cases were recorded during the median follow-up of 12.6 years. The best-fitted Cox regression model suggested a J-shaped relationship between daily alcohol intake level and HCC risk. However, NLMR analysis did not detect a nonlinear correlation between alcohol use and HCC (nonlinearity P-value: 0.386). The J-shaped correlation pattern was detected only in subjects who mainly drank wine but not in those who mainly drank beer, spirits, or fortified wine. Moderate wine drinking showed a significant alanine transaminase (ALT)- and aspartate aminotransferase-lowering effect compared to that of the nondrinkers. In low-risk populations of HCC including women, people aged < 60 years, subjects with normal ALT levels, and those carrying non-risk genotypes of PNPLA3 rs738409 and TM6SF2 rs58542926, we observed a J-shaped correlation between alcohol use and HCC; however, a positive dose–response correlation was found in their respective counterparts, even in those predominantly drinking wine.

Conclusions

Low-to-moderate drinking may be inversely associated with the risk of HCC in low-risk populations, which may be largely driven by wine drinking. However, those in high-risk populations of HCC, such as men and older people, and those with abnormal ALT levels and carry genetic risk variants, should abstain from drinking alcohol. Given the small HCC case number, further validations with larger case numbers are warranted in future works.
A facile process for adipic acid production in high yield by oxidation of 1,6-hexanediol using the resting cells of Gluconobacter oxydans
Authors: Pyo Sang-Hyun , Sayed Mahmoud , Örn Oliver Englund , Amorrortu Gallo Jorge , Fernandez Ros Nídia , Hatti-Kaul Rajni
Published: October 2022

Background

Adipic acid (AA) is one of the most important industrial chemicals used mainly for the production of Nylon 6,6 but also for making polyurethanes, plasticizers, and unsaturated polyester resins, and more recently as a component in the biodegradable polyester poly(butylene adipate terephthalate) (PBAT). The main route for AA production utilizes benzene as feedstock and generates copious amounts of the greenhouse gas NO2. Hence, alternative clean production routes for AA from renewable bio-based feedstock are drawing increasing attention. We have earlier reported the potential of Gluconobacter oxydans cells to oxidize 1,6-hexanediol, a potentially biobased diol to AA.

Results

The present report involves a study on the effect of different parameters on the microbial transformation of 1,6-hexanediol to adipic acid, and subsequently testing the process on a larger lab scale for achieving maximal conversion and yield. Comparison of three wild-type strains of G. oxydans DSM50049, DSM2003, and DSM2343 for the whole-cell biotransformation of 10 g/L 1,6-hexanediol to adipic acid in batch mode at pH 7 and 30 °C led to the selection of G. oxydans DSM50049, which showed 100% conversion of the substrate with over 99% yield of adipic acid in 30 h. An increase in the concentrations of the substrate decreased the degree of conversion, while the product up to 25 g/L in batch and 40 g/L in fed-batch showed no inhibition on the conversion. Moreover, controlling the pH of the reaction at 5–5.5 was required for the cascade oxidation reactions to work. Cell recycling for the biotransformation resulted in a significant decrease in activity during the third cycle. Meanwhile, the fed-batch mode of transformation by intermittent addition of 1,6-hexanediol (30 g in total) in 1 L scale resulted in complete conversion with over 99% yield of adipic acid (approximately 37 g/L). The product was recovered in a pure form using downstream steps without the use of any solvent.

Conclusion

A facile, efficient microbial process for oxidation of 1,6-hexanediol to adipic acid, having potential for scale up was demonstrated. The entire process is performed in aqueous medium at ambient temperatures with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. The enzymes involved in catalyzing the oxidation steps are currently being identified.
Social acceptance of livestock-administered endectocides for malaria control in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Makhanthisa Takalani I. , Braack Leo , Bornman Maria S. , Lutermann Heike
Published: October 2022

Background

Malaria continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Africa and conventional malaria control strategies, such as indoor residual spraying and insecticide-treated bed nets, have limited effectiveness for some malarial vectors. Consequently, the development of alternative or supplementary strategies is required. One potential strategy is the use of livestock-administered endectocides to control vector mosquitoes that feed outdoors on livestock. However, since this strategy requires support from local communities and livestock owners consenting for their animals to be treated, it can only be implemented if agreed to by affected communities. The aim of this study was to assess the social acceptance of the use of livestock-administered endectocides in the malaria endemic villages of Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa, where malaria incidence is high.

Methods

Questionnaires were administered to 103 livestock-owning households from four villages, namely, Gumbu, Malale, Manenzhe and Bale. The assessment included questions on the acceptability of the strategy, the type and number of livestock owned, distances between houses and kraals (overnight pens) as well as previous use and awareness of endectocides. The results were analysed using descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression.

Results

The types of livestock owned by the participants comprised, cattle, goats, sheep and donkeys, with the most dominant being goats (n = 1040) and cattle (n = 964). The majority of kraals were less than 10 m from homesteads. Most participants (72.5%) were already using chemicals to treat their livestock for parasites. All participants were amenable to the implementation of the strategy, and would give consent for their animals to be treated by endectocides.

Conclusions

The use of livestock-administered endectocides appears to be a feasible and acceptable approach for control of animal-feeding malaria vector species in the malaria endemic villages of Vhembe District. This is based on a high percentage of rural residents keeping suitable livestock close to their homes and expressing willingness to use endectocides for mosquito control.
Distribution of lipid levels and prevalence of hyperlipidemia: data from the NHANES 2007–2018
Authors: Li Zhenhan , Zhu Guoqi , Chen Guo , Luo Mei , Liu Xuebo , Chen Zhongpei , Qian Jun
Published: October 2022

Background

Lipid-lowering therapy is important, and the distribution of lipid levels and the incidence of hyperlipidemia may vary in different subgroups of the population. We aimed to explore the distribution of lipid levels and the prevalence of hyperlipidemia in subpopulations with subgroup factors, including age, sex, race, and smoking status.

Methods

Our study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2018, ultimately enrolling and analyzing 15,499 participants. A cross-sectional analysis was performed to assess the distribution of lipids and prevalence of hyperlipidemia in subpopulations, and multifactorial logistic regression analyses were performed for the prevalence of hyperlipidemia, adjusted for age, sex, race and smoking status.

Results

Blacks had significantly lower mean serum total cholesterol and triglycerides and higher serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) than whites (P < 0.001). In contrast, Mexican Americans had markedly higher mean serum triglycerides and lower serum HDL-C than whites (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia was lower in blacks than in whites (P = 0.003 and P < 0.001, respectively), while the prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia was significantly higher in Mexican Americans than in whites (P = 0.002). In addition, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly higher in women aged 65 years or older and markedly higher than in men in the same age group (P < 0.001). In addition, overall mean total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were higher in smokers than in nonsmokers (P = 0.01, P < 0.001, and P = 0.005, respectively).

Conclusion

Based on NHANES data, the mean lipid levels and prevalence of hyperlipidemia differed by sex, age, race, and smoking status.
Erythropoietin-PLGA-PEG as a local treatment to promote functional recovery and neurovascular regeneration after peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Manto Kristen M. , Govindappa Prem Kumar , Martinazzi Brandon , Han Aijie , Hegarty John P. , Koroneos Zachary , Talukder M. A. Hassan , Elfar John C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Traumatic peripheral nerve injury (TPNI) is a major medical problem with no universally accepted pharmacologic treatment. We hypothesized that encapsulation of pro-angiogenic erythropoietin (EPO) in amphiphilic PLGA-PEG block copolymers could serve as a local controlled-release drug delivery system to enhance neurovascular regeneration after nerve injury.

Methods

In this study, we synthesized an EPO-PLGA-PEG block copolymer formulation. We characterized its physiochemical and release properties and examined its effects on functional recovery, neural regeneration, and blood vessel formation after sciatic nerve crush injury in mice.

Results

EPO-PLGA-PEG underwent solution-to-gel transition within the physiologically relevant temperature window and released stable EPO for up to 18 days. EPO-PLGA-PEG significantly enhanced sciatic function index (SFI), grip strength, and withdrawal reflex post-sciatic nerve crush injury. Furthermore, EPO-PLGA-PEG significantly increased blood vessel density, number of junctions, and myelinated nerve fibers after injury.

Conclusion

This study provides promising preclinical evidence for using EPO-PLGA-PEG as a local controlled-release treatment to enhance functional outcomes and neurovascular regeneration in TPNI.
Were US Asian Indian decedents with atherosclerosis more likely to have concurrent diabetes mellitus? Analysis of national multiple cause of mortality data (2012–2019)
Authors: Nair Deepak R. , Chauhan Abhyuday , Vaidya Dhananjay
Published: October 2022

Background

Asian Indians (AI) are at high risk for both atherosclerotic diseases (ATH) and diabetes mellitus (DM). We analyze the clustering of these two comorbidities as contributing causes of death in AI versus Non-AI populations in the US.

Methods

Using Mortality Multiple Cause-of-Death Files (2012–2019) from the National Center for Health Statistics, we included deaths at age ≥ 45 years among US residents where AI versus Non-AI status could be ascertained (n = 55,461 AI; n = 20,090,038 Non-AI) and identsified ATH (ICD10: I20-I25, I63, I70) and DM (ICD10: E10-E14) as contributing causes of death. We calculated the tetrachoric correlation (Rho) between these contributing causes and the difference in the fraction of deaths involving DM in those with versus without ATH.

Results

Among AI decedents, 29.9% of deaths included ATH as a contributing cause, 16.4% included DM as a contributing cause with 8.3% deaths being included in the overlap (Rho = 0.36, SE = 0.007) whereas, among Non-AI, 22.4% of deaths included ATH as a contributing cause, 10.0% included DM as a contributing cause with 4.1% deaths being included in the overlap (Rho = 0.31, SE = 0.001). Thus, DM and ATH as co-occurring causes correlated more strongly in AI versus Non-AI (p < 0.001). Further, this difference in clustering of DM with ATH was highest for younger AI women (age < 60 years) compared to comparable Non-AI women.

Conclusions

The more frequent co-occurrence of DM and ATH as causes of death among AI compared to Non-AI suggest that the increased burden of these diseases among AI during life has vicious synergistic consequences in terms of mortality. Public health strategies targeted to AI should focus on prevention and clinical treatment of both conditions jointly, in all adults, and especially in women < 60 years.
Isolation, in vitro evaluation of Bacillus spp. against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceris and their growth promotion activity
Authors: Venkataramanamma K. , Reddy B. V. Bhaskara , Jayalakshmi R. Sarada , Jayalakshmi V. , Rajendran L.
Published: October 2022

Background

Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceris is one of the potential threats to chickpea cultivation as it causes greater a yield loss under favorable conditions. Management of this disease is difficult because of its soil-borne nature and also existence of races. Fungicide application is not economical and not practical. Application of antagonistic bacteria like Bacillus species is one of the best approaches for its management.

Results

Ten Bacillus isolates were collected from healthy chickpea rhizosphere soil, identified and confirmed them as Bacillus based on the results obtained in Gram staining and biochemical characterization (up to species level). They were evaluated against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceris under in vitro conditions and selected two potential isolates (Bacillus-5 and Bacillus-7), screened for plant growth promotion properties and found thatBacillus-5 was able to solubilize phosphates, Bacillus-7 produced cellulases, both produced HCN and both were unable to produce IAA and chitinases. Identification of these two isolates was done by means of 16Sr DNA sequence analysis. Two universal primers such as 63F and 1387R were used which resulted in 1300 bp product. Blast analysis results indicated that they have more similarities with Bacillus cereus.

Conclusions

Two potential Bacillus isolates out of 10 were selected based on in vitro assay and subjected to study for plant growth promotion characters and found thatBacillus-5 solubilizes phosphates, Bacillus-7 produced cellulases and both produced HCN. Based on 16S rDNA analysis, these potential antagonists have more similar sequences of Bacillus cereus. Further, field efficacy studies need to do in future.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of thaumatin-like protein family genes in wheat and analysis of their responses to Fusarium head blight infection
Authors: Ren Runsheng , Zhou Xinli , Zhang Xu , Li Xin , Zhang Pingping , He Yi
Published: October 2022

Thaumatin-like proteins (TLPs) play potential roles in plant resistance to various diseases. Identifying TLPs is necessary to determine their function and apply them to plant disease resistance. However, limited information is available about TLP-family genes in wheat, especially regarding their responses to Fusarium species, which cause Fusarium head blight in wheat. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive genome-wide survey of TLP genes in wheat and identified 129 TLP genes in the wheat genome, which were unevenly distributed on 21 wheat chromosomes, with 5A containing the highest number. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these 129 wheat TLP genes together with 24 Arabidopsis TLPs were classified into 7 groups based on the protein sequences. We systematically analyzed the genes in terms of their sequence characterization, chromosomal locations, exon–intron distribution, duplication (tandem and segmental) events and expression profiles in response to Fusarium infection. Furthermore, we analyzed differentially expressed TLP genes based on publicly available RNA-seq data obtained from a resistant near isogenic wheat line at different time points after Fusarium graminearum inoculation. Then, the expression of 9 differentially expressed TLP genes was confirmed by real-time PCR, and these 9 genes were all upregulated in the resistant Sumai 3 variety, which was generally consistent with the RNA-seq data. Our results provide a basis for selecting candidate wheat TLP genes for further studies to determine the biological functions of the TLP genes in wheat.

Graphical Abstract
Evaluation of the Clinical Utility of the Bone Metastases Ensemble Trees for Survival Decision Support Platform (BMETS-DSP): A Case-Based Pilot Assessment
Authors: Alcorn Sara R. , LaVigne Anna W. , Elledge Christen R. , Fiksel Jacob , Hu Chen , Kleinberg Lawrence , Levin Adam , Smith Thomas , Cheng Zhi , Kim Kibem , Rao Avani D. , Sloan Lindsey , Page Brandi , Stinson Susan F. , Voong K. Ranh , McNutt Todd R. , Bowers Michael R. , DeWeese Theodore L. , Zeger Scott , Wright Jean L.
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE

The Bone Metastases Ensemble Trees for Survival Decision Support Platform (BMETS-DSP) provides patient-specific survival predictions and evidence-based recommendations to guide multidisciplinary management for symptomatic bone metastases. We assessed the clinical utility of the BMETS-DSP through a pilot prepost design in a simulated clinical environment.

METHODS

Ten Radiation Oncology physicians reviewed 55 patient cases at two time points: without and then with the use of BMETS-DSP. Assessment included 12-month survival estimate, confidence in and likelihood of sharing estimates with patients, and recommendations for open surgery, systemic therapy, hospice referral, and radiotherapy (RT) regimen. Paired statistics compared pre- versus post-DSP outcomes. Reported statistical significance is P < .05.

RESULTS

Pre- versus post-DSP, overestimation of true minus estimated survival time was significantly reduced (mean difference –2.1 [standard deviation 4.1] v –1 month [standard deviation 3.5]). Prediction accuracy was significantly improved at cut points of < 3 (72 v 79%), ≤ 6 (64 v 71%), and ≥ 12 months (70 v 81%). Median ratings of confidence in and likelihood of sharing prognosis significantly increased. Significantly greater concordance was seen in matching use of 1-fraction RT with the true survival < 3 months (70 v 76%) and < 10-fraction RT with the true survival < 12 months (55 v 62%) and appropriate use of open surgery (47% v 53%), without significant changes in selection of hospice referral or systemic therapy.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study demonstrates that BMETS-DSP significantly improved physician survival estimation accuracy, prognostic confidence, likelihood of sharing prognosis, and use of prognosis-appropriate RT regimens in the care of symptomatic bone metastases, supporting future multi-institutional validation of the platform.
Five-Year Outcomes With Pembrolizumab Versus Chemotherapy as First-Line Therapy in Patients With Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer and Programmed Death Ligand-1 Tumor Proportion Score ≥ 1% in the KEYNOTE-042 Study
Authors: de Castro Gilberto , Kudaba Iveta , Wu Yi-Long , Lopes Gilberto , Kowalski Dariusz M. , Turna Hande Z. , Caglevic Christian , Zhang Li , Karaszewska Boguslawa , Laktionov Konstantin K. , Srimuninnimit Vichien , Bondarenko Igor , Kubota Kaoru , Mukherjee Rinee , Lin Jianxin , Souza Fabricio , Mok Tony S.K. , Cho Byoung Chul
Published: October 2022

Clinical trials frequently include multiple end points that mature at different times. The initial report, typically based on the primary end point, may be published when key planned co‐primary or secondary analyses are not yet available. Clinical Trial Updates provide an opportunity to disseminate additional results from studies, published in JCO or elsewhere, for which the primary end point has already been reported.

We report 5-year results from the phase III KEYNOTE-042 study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02220894 ). Eligible patients with locally advanced/metastatic non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without EGFR/ALK alterations and with programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) tumor proportion score (TPS) ≥ 1% received pembrolizumab 200 mg once every 3 weeks for 35 cycles or chemotherapy (carboplatin + paclitaxel or pemetrexed) for 4-6 cycles with optional maintenance pemetrexed. Primary end points were overall survival (OS) in PD-L1 TPS ≥ 50%, ≥ 20%, and ≥ 1% groups. Patients who completed 35 cycles of pembrolizumab with ≥ stable disease could begin second-course pembrolizumab upon progression. One thousand two hundred seventy‐four patients were randomly assigned (pembrolizumab, n = 637; chemotherapy, n = 637). Median follow-up time was 61.1 (range, 50.0-76.3) months. OS outcomes favored pembrolizumab ( v chemotherapy) regardless of PD-L1 TPS (hazard ratio [95% CI] for TPS ≥ 50%, 0.68 [0.57 to 0.81]; TPS ≥ 20%, 0.75 [0.64 to 0.87]; TPS ≥ 1%, 0.79 [0.70 to 0.89]), with estimated 5-year OS rates with pembrolizumab of 21.9%, 19.4%, and 16.6%, respectively. No new toxicities were identified. Objective response rate was 84.3% among 102 patients who completed 35 cycles of pembrolizumab and 15.2% among 33 patients who received second-course pembrolizumab. First-line pembrolizumab monotherapy continued to show durable clinical benefit versus chemotherapy after 5 years of follow-up in PD-L1–positive, locally advanced/metastatic NSCLC without EGFR/ALK alterations and remains a standard of care.
Single-cell transcriptional and functional analysis of dopaminergic neurons in organoid-like cultures derived from human fetal midbrain
Authors: Birtele Marcella , Storm Petter , Sharma Yogita , Kajtez Janko , Wahlestedt Jenny Nelander , Sozzi Edoardo , Nilsson Fredrik , Stott Simon , He Xiaoling L. , Mattsson Bengt , Ottosson Daniella Rylander , Barker Roger A. , Fiorenzano Alessandro , Parmar Malin
Published: October 2022

Significant efforts are ongoing to develop refined differentiation protocols to generate midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons from pluripotent stem cells for application in disease modeling, diagnostics, drug screening and cell-based therapies for Parkinson's disease. An increased understanding of the timing and molecular mechanisms that promote the generation of distinct subtypes of human midbrain DA during development will be essential for guiding future efforts to generate molecularly defined and subtype-specific DA neurons from pluripotent stem cells. Here, we use droplet-based single-cell RNA sequencing to transcriptionally profile the developing human ventral midbrain (VM) when the DA neurons are generated (6-11 weeks post-conception) and their subsequent differentiation into functional mature DA neurons in primary fetal 3D organoid-like cultures. This approach reveals that 3D cultures are superior to monolayer conditions for their ability to generate and maintain mature DA neurons; hence, they have the potential to be used for studying human VM development. These results provide a unique transcriptional profile of the developing human fetal VM and functionally mature human DA neurons that can be used to guide stem cell-based therapies and disease modeling approaches in Parkinson's disease.
Nuclear movement in multinucleated cells
Authors: Padilla Jorel R. , Ferreira Lillie M. , Folker Eric S.
Published: October 2022

Nuclear movement is crucial for the development of many cell types and organisms. Nuclear movement is highly conserved, indicating its necessity for cellular function and development. In addition to mononucleated cells, there are several examples of cells in which multiple nuclei exist within a shared cytoplasm. These multinucleated cells and syncytia have important functions for development and homeostasis. Here, we review a subset of the developmental contexts in which the regulation of the movement and positioning of multiple nuclei are well understood, including pronuclear migration, the Drosophila syncytial blastoderm, the Caenorhabditis elegans hypodermis, skeletal muscle and filamentous fungi. We apply the principles learned from these models to other systems.
Overactive Wnt5a signaling disrupts hair follicle polarity during mouse skin development
Authors: Simonson Laura , Oldham Ethan , Chang Hao
Published: October 2022

The polarity of mouse hair follicles is controlled by the Frizzled (Fzd) receptors and other membrane planar cell polarity (PCP) proteins. Whether Wnt proteins can act as PCP ligands in the skin remains unknown. Here, we show that overexpression of Wnt5a in the posterior part of mouse embryos causes a local disruption of hair follicle orientation. The misoriented hair follicle phenotype in Wnt5a overexpressing mice can be rescued by a heterozygous loss of Fzd6, suggesting Wnt5a is likely to signal through Fzd6. Although the membrane distribution of PCP proteins seems unaffected by Wnt5a overexpression, transcriptional profiling analyses identify a set of genes as potential targets of the skin polarization program controlled by Wnt5a/Fzd6 signaling. Surprisingly, deletion of Wnt5a globally or in the posterior part of the mouse embryos does not affect hair follicle orientation. We show that many other Wnts are highly expressed in the developing skin. They can activate the Fzd6 signaling pathway in vitro and may act together with Wnt5a to regulate the Fzd6-mediated skin polarization. Our experiments demonstrate for the first time that Wnt5a can function as an orienting cue for mouse skin PCP.
(Madeline) Ruth Bellairs (1926-2021)
Authors: Wylie Chris , Stern Claudio D.
Published: October 2022

Ruth Bellairs passed away on 30 December 2021 at the age of 95. Ruth was a legendary figure in chick embryology; she pioneered many new techniques and made some important discoveries, and we were both extremely fortunate to benefit from her extraordinary mentorship, C.W. as final honours project undergraduate in her lab and then as her PhD student (1967-70), and C.D.S. as her postdoc (1978-1984).
Thermal preference does not align with optimal temperature for aerobic scope in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Ripley Daniel M. , Quinn Florence A. , Dickson Jessica , Arthur Jack , Shiels Holly A.
Published: October 2022

Warming is predicted to have negative consequences for fishes by causing a mismatch between oxygen demand and supply, and a consequent reduction in aerobic scope (AS) and performance. This oxygen and capacity limited thermal tolerance (OCLTT) hypothesis features prominently in the literature but remains controversial. Within the OCLTT framework, we hypothesised that fish would select temperatures that maximise their AS, and thus their performance. We tested this hypothesis using intermittent flow respirometry to measure AS at, above (+2.5°C) and below (–2.5°C) the self-selected, preferred temperature (Tpref) of individual zebrafish (Danio rerio). AS was greatest 2.5°C above Tpref, which was driven by an increase in maximal metabolic rate. This mismatch between Tpref and the optimal temperature for AS suggests that factor(s) aside from AS maximisation influence the thermal preference of zebrafish.
Activity-dependent decline and recovery of synaptic transmission in central parts of surviving primary afferents after their peripheral cut in crayfish
Authors: Le Bon-Jégo Morgane , Cabirol Marie-Jeanne , Cattaert Daniel
Published: October 2022

Axons deprived of their nucleus degenerate within a few days in mammals but survive for several months in crustaceans. However, it is not known whether central synapses from sensory axons may preserve their molecular machinery in the absence of spiking activity. To assess this, we used peripheral axotomy, which removes their nuclei combined with electrophysiology techniques and electron microscopy imaging. We report the following. (1) Electron microscopy analysis confirms previous observations that glial cell nuclei present in the sensory nerve proliferate and migrate to axon tubes, where they form close contacts with surviving axons. (2) After peripheral axotomy performed in vivo on the coxo-basipodite chordotonal organ (CBCO), the sensory nerve does not convey any sensory message, but antidromic volleys are observed. (3) Central synaptic transmission from the CBCO to motoneurons (MNs) progressively declines over 200 days (90% of monosynaptic excitatory transmission is lost after 3 weeks, whereas 60% of disynaptic inhibitory transmission persists up to 6 months). After 200 days, no transmission is observed. (4) However, this total loss is apparent only because repetitive electrical stimulation of the sensory nerve in vitro progressively restores first inhibitory post-synaptic potentials and then excitatory post-synaptic potentials. (5) The loss of synaptic transmission can be prevented by in vivo chronic sensory nerve stimulation. (6) Using simulations based on the geometric arrangements of synapses of the monosynaptic excitatory transmission and disynaptic inhibitory pathways, we show that antidromic activity in the CBCO nerve could play a role in the maintenance of synaptic function of inhibitory pathways to MNs, but not monosynaptic excitatory transmission to MNs. Our study confirms the deep changes in glial nuclei observed in axons deprived of their nucleus. We further show that the machinery for spike conduction and synaptic release persists for several months, even if there is no longer any activity. Indeed, we were able to restore, with electrical activity, spike conduction and synaptic function after long silent periods (>6 months).
Adviser Value Added and Student Outcomes: Evidence from Randomly Assigned College Advisers
Authors: Canaan Serena , Deeb Antoine , Mouganie Pierre
Published: October 2022

This paper provides the first causal evidence on the impact of college adviser quality on student outcomes. To do so, we exploit a unique setting where students are randomly assigned to faculty advisers during their first year of college. We find that higher adviser value added (VA) substantially improves freshman year GPA, time to complete freshman year and four-year graduation rates. Additionally, higher adviser VA increases high-ability students’ likelihood of enrolling and graduating with a STEM degree. Our results indicate that allocating resources towards improving the quality of academic advising may play a key role in promoting college success. (JEL I23, I26, J24, J31, O15)
Avoiding litigation and complaints through good communication practices
Authors: Tingle John
Published: October 2022

John Tingle, Lecturer in Law, Birmingham Law School, University of Birmingham, discusses some recent patient safety reports with a focus on good communication
Consent and the requirement for accessible information
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: October 2022

Richard Griffith, Senior Lecturer in Health Law at Swansea University, considers the importance of accessible information when obtaining consent from patients
Okul Öncesi Öğretmenlerinin Eğitim Felsefesi Eğilimleri ile Üst Düzey Düşünme Becerileri Arasındaki İlişki
Authors: KURT Şerife Hülya
Published: October 2022

BBu araştırmada okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin sahip oldukları eğitim felsefesi eğilimleri ile üst düzey düşünme becerileri arasındaki ilişkinin incelenmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Araştırma ilişkisel tarama modelinde tasarlanmıştır. Araştırmada veri toplama aracı olarak Eğitim Felsefesi Eğilimleri Ölçeği, Marmara Eleştirel Düşünme ve Yaratıcı Düşünme Eğilimleri Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Çalışmada veriler Mersin ilinde okul öncesi öğretmeni olarak çalışan 213 öğretmenden toplanmıştır. Toplanan veriler SPSS programının 22.0 yazılım paketi ile analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmada güvenirlik, doğrusallık ve normallik analizi dışında çalışmanın amacı doğrultusunda Pearson korelasyon analizi ve regresyon analizi yapılmıştır. Çalışmanın sonucunda yapılan korelasyon analizi ile okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin eğitim felsefesi eğilimleri ile üst düzey düşünme becerileri arasında anlamlı bir ilişki olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Araştırmada ilerlemeci ve yeniden kurmacı eğitim felsefesi eğilimlerinin üst düzey düşünme becerileri ile ilişkili olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin eğitim felsefesi eğilimlerinden ilerlemeci ve yeniden kurmacı anlayışın üst düzey düşünme becerilerinin anlamlı birer yordayıcısı olduğu yapılan regresyon analizi ile tespit edilmiştir. Çalışmanın sonuçları ilgili alanyazın kapsamında tartışılmıştır.
O TEATRO COMO ABORDAGEM METODOLÓGICA NOS PROCESSOS DE INCLUSÃO ESCOLAR: UMA EXPERIÊNCIA DE ESTÁGIO SUPERVISIONADO
Authors: Negrini Tatiane , Pohl Sanches Maria Jade
Published: October 2022

Uma experiência desenvolvida no curso de Educação Especial da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), durante o estágio curricular na área de dificuldades de aprendizagem, sugere o Teatro como abordagem metodológica para a inclusão de uma criança com dificuldades de aprendizagem. Tem como objetivo promover a inter-relação entre a Educação Especial e o Teatro como linguagem interdisciplinar potente para o atendimento de uma criança com dificuldade de aprendizagem em uma proposta de ensino inclusivo. Traz autores como Soares (2003), Ferreiro (2001) e Rotta (2006), a fim de discutir sobre a Educação Especial. Ao dialogar com o Teatro, considera autores como Ryngaert (2009), Decico (2006) e Ferreira (2006). Espera-se, com esta reflexão, ampliar a visão de professores e dos acadêmicos do curso de Educação Especial, sobre uma ação pedagógica diferenciada para ensinar Teatro para crianças com dificuldades de aprendizagem, trabalhando com abordagem curricular inclusiva.