bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Study of Rainbow Antimagic Connection Number of Comb Product of Friendship Graph and Tree
Authors: Septory Brian Juned , Susilowati Liliek , Dafik Dafik , Lokesha Veerabhadraiah
Published: December 2022

Given a graph G with vertex set V(G) and edge set E(G), for the bijective function f(V(G))→{1,2,⋯,|V(G)|}, the associated weight of an edge xy∈E(G) under f is w(xy)=f(x)+f(y). If all edges have pairwise distinct weights, the function f is called an edge-antimagic vertex labeling. A path P in the vertex-labeled graph G is said to be a rainbow x−y path if for every two edges xy,x′y′∈E(P) it satisfies w(xy)≠w(x′y′). The function f is called a rainbow antimagic labeling of G if there exists a rainbow x−y path for every two vertices x,y∈V(G). We say that graph G admits a rainbow antimagic coloring when we assign each edge xy with the color of the edge weight w(xy). The smallest number of colors induced from all edge weights of antimagic labeling is the rainbow antimagic connection number of G, denoted by rac(G). This paper is intended to investigate non-symmetrical phenomena in the comb product of graphs by considering antimagic labeling and optimizing rainbow connection, called rainbow antimagic coloring. In this paper, we show the exact value of the rainbow antimagic connection number of the comb product of graph Fn⊳Tm, where Fn is a friendship graph with order 2n+1 and Tm∈{Pm,Sm,Brm,p,Sm,m}, where Pm is the path graph of order m, Sm is the star graph of order m+1, Brm,p is the broom graph of order m+p and Sm,m is the double star graph of order 2m+2.
Injury Symmetry in Judo
Authors: Błach Wiesław , Rydzik Łukasz , Stanula Arkadiusz , Cynarski Wojciech J. , Ambroży Tadeusz
Published: December 2022

Background: Each combat sport carries different risks of injury due to the specifics of the sport (including the weight categories and sex) and the fighting techniques used according to different sports regulations. The purpose of this study is to examine injury symmetry in judo. Methods: Injuries recorded in 195 people (93 women, 102 men) suffered during top-level judo tournaments were verified. Using the European Judo Union medical questionnaire, information on injuries was obtained from each injured athlete. Results: Based on the analysis of the results, it can be concluded that injuries are almost evenly distributed on the left and right sides of the body in both men and women. In women, there were 129 injuries to the left side (41.2%), 134 injuries to the right (42.8%), and 50 (16.0%) to the middle part of the body. Conclusions: injuries in judo are evenly distributed and slightly more common on the right side. Injuries occur at a greater rate during defending maneuvers than attacking maneuvers in judo. Identification and monitoring of who (tori or uke) and which side of the body sustains an injury are crucial and important in injury prevention. This knowledge makes it possible to modify existing sports regulations by eliminating behaviors (e.g., certain types of defense) to improve the safety of athletes participating in top-level competitions and the training process in terms of ensuring safety in both attack and defense.
Lead and Other Trace Element Levels in Brains of Croatian Large Terrestrial Carnivores: Influence of Biological and Ecological Factors
Authors: Lazarus Maja , Sekovanić Ankica , Reljić Slaven , Kusak Josip , Ferenčaković Maja , Sindičić Magda , Gomerčić Tomislav , Huber Đuro
Published: December 2022

Trace element pollution can adversely affect the brains of individuals and thus impact the entire population of apex predators, such as large European carnivores. We assessed exposure to prominent neurotoxicants As, Cd, Hg and Pb by measuring their brain stem levels in brown bears (n = 114), grey wolves (n = 8), Eurasian lynx (n = 3), and golden jackals (n = 2) sampled in 2015–2022 in Croatia. The highest of the non-essential elements was the Pb level in the bearsʼ brains (median, Q1–Q3; 11.1, 7.13–24.1 μg/kg wet mass), with 4% of animals, all subadults, exceeding the established normal bovine levels (100 μg/kg wet mass). Species-specific differences were noted for Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb and Se brain levels. Female brown bears had higher As brain levels than males. Cubs and yearlings had lower brain Cd, but higher Zn, while subadults had higher Cu than adult bears. Hepatic As, Cd, Cu and Hg levels were shown to be a moderate proxy for estimating brain levels in bears (rS = 0.30–0.69). Multiple associations of As, Cd, Hg and Pb with essential elements pointed to a possible interaction and disturbance of brain Ca, Cu, Fe, Se and Zn homeostasis. Non-essential element levels in the brains of four studied species were lower than reported earlier for terrestrial meso-carnivores and humans. The age and sex of animals were highlighted as essential factors in interpreting brain element levels in ecotoxicological studies of large carnivores.
Phytoremediation: A Novel Approach of Bast Fiber Plants (Hemp, Kenaf, Jute and Flax) for Heavy Metals Decontamination in Soil—Review
Authors: Cleophas Fera Nony , Zahari Nur Zaida , Murugayah Pavitra , Rahim Sahibin Abd , Mohd Yatim Ahmad Norazhar
Published: December 2022

Heavy metal pollution in the environment is a major concern for humans as it is non-biodegradable and can have a lot of effects on the environment, humans as well as plants. At present, a solution to this problem is suggested in terms of a new, innovative and eco-friendly technology known as phytoremediation. Bast fiber plants are typically non-edible crops that have a short life cycle. It is one of the significant crops that has attracted interest for many industrial uses because of its constant fiber supply and ease of maintenance. Due to its low maintenance requirements with minimum economic investment, bast fiber plants have been widely used in phytoremediation. Nevertheless, these plants have the ability to extract metals from the soil through their deep roots, combined with their commercial prospects, making them an ideal candidate as a profit-yielding crop for phytoremediation purposes. Therefore, a comprehensive review is needed for a better understanding of the morphology and phytoremediation mechanism of four commonly bast fiber plants, such as hemp (Cannabis sativa), kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus), jute (Corchorus olitorius) and Flax (Linum usitatissimum). This review article summarizes the existing research on the phytoremediation potential of these plants grown in different toxic pollutants such as Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd) and Zinc (Zn). This work also discusses several aids including natural and chemical amendments to improve phytoremediation. The role of these amendments in the bioavailability of contaminants, their uptake, translocation and bioaccumulation, as well as their effect on plant growth and development, has been highlighted in this paper. This paper helps in identifying, comparing and addressing the recent achievements of bast fiber plants for the phytoremediation of heavy metals in contaminated soil.
Cells Responding to Closely Related Cholesterol-Dependent Cytolysins Release Extracellular Vesicles with a Common Proteomic Content Including Membrane Repair Proteins
Authors: Alves Sara , Pereira Joana M. , Mayer Rupert L. , Gonçalves Alexandre D. A. , Impens Francis , Cabanes Didier , Sousa Sandra
Published: December 2022

The plasma membrane (PM) protects cells from extracellular threats and supports cellular homeostasis. Some pathogens produce pore-forming toxins (PFTs) that disrupt PM integrity by forming transmembrane pores. High PFT concentrations cause massive damage leading to cell death and facilitating infection. Sub-lytic PFT doses activate repair mechanisms to restore PM integrity, support cell survival and limit disease. Shedding of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has been proposed as a key mechanism to eliminate PFT pores and restore PM integrity. We show here that cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs), a specific family of PFTs, are at least partially eliminated through EVs release, and we hypothesize that proteins important for PM repair might be included in EVs shed by cells during repair. To identify new PM repair proteins, we collected EVs released by cells challenged with sub-lytic doses of two different bacterial CDCs, listeriolysin O and pneumolysin, and determined the EV proteomic repertoire by LC-MS/MS. Intoxicated cells release similar EVs irrespectively of the CDC used. Also, they release more and larger EVs than non-intoxicated cells. A cluster of 70 proteins including calcium-binding proteins, molecular chaperones, cytoskeletal, scaffold and membrane trafficking proteins, was detected enriched in EVs collected from intoxicated cells. While some of these proteins have well-characterized roles in repair, the involvement of others requires further study. As proof of concept, we show here that Copine-1 and Copine-3, proteins abundantly detected in EVs released by intoxicated cells, are required for efficient repair of CDC-induced PM damage. Additionally, we reveal here new proteins potentially involved in PM repair and give new insights into common mechanisms and machinery engaged by cells in response to PM damage.
Histone 2-Hydroxyisobutyryltransferase Encoded by Afngg1 Is Involved in Pathogenicity and Aflatoxin Biosynthesis in Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Wang Jing , Liang Liuke , Wei Shan , Zhang Shuaibing , Hu Yuansen , Lv Yangyong
Published: December 2022

Aflatoxin, a carcinogenic secondary metabolite produced by Aspergillus flavus, is a significant threat to human health and agricultural production. Histone 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation is a novel post-translational modification that regulates various biological processes, including secondary metabolism. In this study, we identified the novel histone 2-hydroxyisobutyryltransferase Afngg1 in A. flavus, and explored its role in cell growth, development and aflatoxin biosynthesis. Afngg1 gene deletion markedly decreased lysine 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation modification of histones H4K5 and H4K8 compared with the control strain. Additionally, Afngg1 deletion inhibited mycelial growth of A. flavus, and the number of conidia and hydrophobicity were significantly decreased. Notably, aflatoxin B1 biosynthesis and sclerotia production were completely inhibited in the ΔAfngg1 strain. Furthermore, the pathogenicity of the ΔAfngg1 strain infecting peanut and corn grains was also diminished, including reduced spore production and aflatoxin biosynthesis compared with A. flavus control and Afngg1 complementation strains. Transcriptome analysis showed that, compared with control strains, differentially expressed genes in ΔAfngg1 were mainly involved in chromatin remodelling, cell development, secondary metabolism and oxidative stress. These results suggest that Afngg1 is involved in histone 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation and chromatin modification, and thus affects cell development and aflatoxin biosynthesis in A. flavus. Our results lay a foundation for in-depth research on the 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation modification in A. flavus, and may provide a novel target for aflatoxin contamination prevention.
The Sea Anemone Neurotoxins Modulating Sodium Channels: An Insight at Structure and Functional Activity after Four Decades of Investigation
Authors: Monastyrnaya Margarita Mikhailovna , Kalina Rimma Sergeevna , Kozlovskaya Emma Pavlovna
Published: December 2022

Many human cardiovascular and neurological disorders (such as ischemia, epileptic seizures, traumatic brain injury, neuropathic pain, etc.) are associated with the abnormal functional activity of voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs/NaVs). Many natural toxins, including the sea anemone toxins (called neurotoxins), are an indispensable and promising tool in pharmacological researches. They have widely been carried out over the past three decades, in particular, in establishing different NaV subtypes functional properties and a specific role in various pathologies. Therefore, a large number of publications are currently dedicated to the search and study of the structure-functional relationships of new sea anemone natural neurotoxins–potential pharmacologically active compounds that specifically interact with various subtypes of voltage gated sodium channels as drug discovery targets. This review presents and summarizes some updated data on the structure-functional relationships of known sea anemone neurotoxins belonging to four structural types. The review also emphasizes the study of type 2 neurotoxins, produced by the tropical sea anemone Heteractis crispa, five structurally homologous and one unique double-stranded peptide that, due to the absence of a functionally significant Arg14 residue, loses toxicity but retains the ability to modulate several VGSCs subtypes.
Entomological Surveillance Activities in Regions in Greece: Data on Mosquito Species Abundance and West Nile Virus Detection in Culex pipiens Pools (2019–2020)
Authors: Vakali Annita , Beleri Stavroula , Tegos Nikolaos , Fytrou Anastasia , Mpimpa Anastasia , Sergentanis Theodoros N. , Pervanidou Danai , Patsoula Eleni
Published: December 2022

Human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) infections have been recorded in Greece since 2010, with seasonal outbreaks (summer-autumn) on an almost annual basis, caused mainly by the WNV lineage 2 strain (Nea Santa-Greece-2010). National Public Health Organization (NPHO) in Greece is annually implementing enhanced surveillance of human WNV infection, in order to promptly identify human cases of WNV infection and monitor distribution in terms of time and place. Entomological surveillance activities were carried out on a national basis in 2019 and 2020, under NPHO coordination and the collaboration of several private subcontractors, along with the Unit of Medical Entomology, Laboratory for Surveillance of Infectious Diseases (LSID). The aim was to monitor mosquito species composition, abundance, and WNV circulation in mosquito pools of Culex pipiens s.l. species. Adult mosquito traps were placed in selected sites; collected samples were morphologically characterized and pooled by date of collection, location, and species types. Female Culex pipiens s.l. pools were tested for WNV and WNV infection rates (MIR and MLE) were estimated. Highest mean number of female Culex pipiens s.l. species was recorded in Central Macedonia both for 2019 and 2020. Six hundred and fifty-nine mosquito pools (147 in 2019 and 512 in 2020) of female Culex pipiens s.l. were examined for WNV presence. The highest MLE was detected in Western Macedonia in 2019 and in Thessaly in 2020. Here, we present data on the mosquito species composition in the studied areas and WNV detection in mosquitoes from areas in Greece where the specific national mosquito surveillance program was implemented, for two years, 2019 and 2020.
Multiverse Predictions for Habitability: Planetary Characteristics
Authors: Sandora McCullen , Airapetian Vladimir , Barnes Luke , Lewis Geraint F.
Published: December 2022

Recent detections of potentially habitable exoplanets around sunlike stars demand increased exploration of the physical conditions that can sustain life, by whatever methods available. Insight into these conditions can be gained by considering the multiverse hypothesis; in a multiverse setting, the probability of living in our universe depends on assumptions made about the factors affecting habitability. Various proposed habitability criteria can be systematically considered to rate each on the basis of their compatibility with the multiverse, generating predictions which can both guide expectations for life’s occurrence and test the multiverse hypothesis. Here, we evaluate several aspects of planetary habitability, and show that the multiverse does indeed induce strong preferences among them. We find that the notion that a large moon is necessary for habitability is untenable in the multiverse scenario, as in the majority of parameter space, moons are not necessary to maintain stable obliquity. Further, we consider various proposed mechanisms for water delivery to the early Earth, including delivery from asteroids, both during giant planet formation and a grand tack, delivery from comets, and oxidation of a primary atmosphere by a magma ocean. We find that, depending on assumptions for how habitability depends on water content, some of these proposed mechanisms are disfavored in the multiverse scenario by Bayes factors of up to several hundred.
Polypyrimidine-Tract-Binding Protein Isoforms Differentially Regulate the Hepatitis C Virus Internal Ribosome Entry Site
Authors: Angulo Jenniffer , Cáceres C. Joaquín , Contreras Nataly , Fernández-García Leandro , Chamond Nathalie , Ameur Melissa , Sargueil Bruno , López-Lastra Marcelo
Published: December 2022

Translation initiation of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) mRNA depends on an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) that encompasses most of the 5′UTR and includes nucleotides of the core coding region. This study shows that the polypyrimidine-tract-binding protein (PTB), an RNA-binding protein with four RNA recognition motifs (RRMs), binds to the HCV 5′UTR, stimulating its IRES activity. There are three isoforms of PTB: PTB1, PTB2, and PTB4. Our results show that PTB1 and PTB4, but not PTB2, stimulate HCV IRES activity in HuH-7 and HEK293T cells. In HuH-7 cells, PTB1 promotes HCV IRES-mediated initiation more strongly than PTB4. Mutations in PTB1, PTB4, RRM1/RRM2, or RRM3/RRM4, which disrupt the RRM’s ability to bind RNA, abrogated the protein’s capacity to stimulate HCV IRES activity in HuH-7 cells. In HEK293T cells, PTB1 and PTB4 stimulate HCV IRES activity to similar levels. In HEK293T cells, mutations in RRM1/RRM2 did not impact PTB1′s ability to promote HCV IRES activity; and mutations in PTB1 RRM3/RRM4 domains reduced, but did not abolish, the protein’s capacity to stimulate HCV IRES activity. In HEK293T cells, mutations in PTB4 RRM1/RRM2 abrogated the protein’s ability to promote HCV IRES activity, and mutations in RRM3/RRM4 have no impact on PTB4 ability to enhance HCV IRES activity. Therefore, PTB1 and PTB4 differentially stimulate the IRES activity in a cell type-specific manner. We conclude that PTB1 and PTB4, but not PTB2, act as IRES transacting factors of the HCV IRES.
Only Subclinical Alterations in the Haemostatic System of People with Diabetes after COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Paar Margret , Aziz Faisal , Sourij Caren , Tripolt Norbert J. , Kojzar Harald , Müller Alexander , Pferschy Peter , Obermayer Anna , Banfic Tamara , Di Geronimo Quintero Bruno , Goswami Nandu , Schlagenhauf Axel , Köstenberger Martin , Bärnthaler Thomas , Wagner Thomas , Hrzenjak Andelko , Wonisch Willibald , Reibnegger Gilbert , Raggam Reinhard B. , Sourij Harald , Cvirn Gerhard
Published: December 2022

People with diabetes have an increased risk of experiencing adverse COVID-19 outcomes. COVID-19 vaccination is, therefore, highly recommended. However, people with diabetes have an inherently elevated risk of thrombotic events and the impact of the vaccination on the coagulation system in this patient population remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on the haemostatic system in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. We evaluated the effects of COVID-19 vaccination (BioNTech Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca) on standard coagulation parameters, whole blood coagulation (Thrombelastometry), platelet function (impedance aggregation), and thrombin generation (calibrated automated thrombography) in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (n = 41) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (n = 37). Blood sampling points were prior to vaccination and two weeks after the respective vaccination. Thrombelastometry measurements indicated moderately increased clot formation post-vaccination in people with type 1, as well as with type 2, diabetes: “Clot formation times” were significantly shorter, and both “maximum clot firmness” and “alpha angles” were significantly higher, as compared to the respective pre-vaccination values. Therefore, TEM parameters were not altered after vaccination in patients receiving ASA. Moreover, platelet aggregation was enhanced in people with type 1 diabetes, and plasma levels of D-Dimer were increased in people with type 2 diabetes, following COVID-19 vaccination. All other standard coagulation parameters, as well as thrombin generation, were not affected by the vaccination. The coagulation responses of people with diabetes to COVID-19 vaccination were only subclinical and comparable to those observed in healthy individuals. Our findings suggest that people with diabetes do not face an increased activation of the coagulation post-vaccination.
Epidemiological Patterns of Seasonal Respiratory Viruses during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Madagascar, March 2020–May 2022
Authors: Razanajatovo Norosoa Harline , Randriambolamanantsoa Tsiry Hasina , Rabarison Joelinotahiana Hasina , Randrianasolo Laurence , Ankasitrahana Miamina Fidy , Ratsimbazafy Arvé , Raherinandrasana Antso Hasina , Razafimanjato Helisoa , Raharinosy Vololoniaina , Andriamandimby Soa Fy , Heraud Jean-Michel , Dussart Philippe , Lacoste Vincent
Published: December 2022

Three epidemic waves of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) occurred in Madagascar from March 2020 to May 2022, with a positivity rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) of 21% to 33%. Our study aimed to identify the impact of COVID-19 on the epidemiology of seasonal respiratory viruses (RVs) in Madagascar. We used two different specimen sources (SpS). First, 2987 nasopharyngeal (NP) specimens were randomly selected from symptomatic patients between March 2020 and May 2022 who tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 and were tested for 14 RVs by multiplex real-time PCR. Second, 6297 NP specimens were collected between March 2020 and May 2022 from patients visiting our sentinel sites of the influenza sentinel network. The samples were tested for influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2. From SpS-1, 19% (569/2987) of samples tested positive for at least one RV. Rhinovirus (6.3%, 187/2987) was the most frequently detected virus during the first two waves, whereas influenza predominated during the third. From SpS-2, influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV accounted for 5.4%, 24.5%, and 39.4% of the detected viruses, respectively. During the study period, we observed three different RV circulation profiles. Certain viruses circulated sporadically, with increased activity in between waves of SARS-CoV-2. Other viruses continued to circulate regardless of the COVID-19 situation. Certain viruses were severely disrupted by the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Our findings underline the importance and necessity of maintaining an integrated disease surveillance system for the surveillance and monitoring of RVs of public health interest.
Microcalorimetry: A Novel Application to Measure In Vitro Phage Susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus in Human Serum
Authors: Molendijk Michèle M. , Phan My V. T. , Bode Lonneke G. M. , Strepis Nikolas , Prasad Divyae K. , Worp Nathalie , Nieuwenhuijse David F. , Schapendonk Claudia M. E. , Boekema Bouke K. H. L. , Verbon Annelies , Koopmans Marion P. G. , Graaf Miranda de , van Wamel Willem J. B.
Published: December 2022

Infections involving antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) represent a major challenge to successful treatment. Further, although bacteriophages (phages) could be an alternative to antibiotics, there exists a lack of correlation in phage susceptibility results between conventional in vitro and in vivo assays. This discrepancy may hinder the potential implementation of bacteriophage therapy. In this study, the susceptibility of twelve S. aureus strains to three commercial phage cocktails and two single phages was assessed. These S. aureus strains (including ten clinical isolates, five of which were methicillin-resistant) were compared using four assays: the spot test, efficiency of plating (EOP), the optical density assay (all in culture media) and microcalorimetry in human serum. In the spot test, EOP and optical density assay, all cocktails and single phages lysed both methicillin susceptible and methicillin resistant S. aureus strains. However, there was an absence of phage-mediated lysis in high concentrations of human serum as measured using microcalorimetry. As this microcalorimetry-based assay more closely resembles in vivo conditions, we propose that microcalorimetry could be included as a useful addition to conventional assays, thereby facilitating more accurate predictions of the in vivo susceptibility of S. aureus to phages during phage selection for therapeutic purposes.
Concerning the Etiology of Syrah Decline: A Fresh Perspective on an Old and Complex Issue Facing the Global Grape and Wine Industry
Authors: Xiao Huogen , Roscow Olivia , Hooker Julia , Li Caihong , Maree Hans J. , Meng Baozhong
Published: December 2022

Syrah decline, first identified in Southern France in the 1990s, has become a major concern in the global grape and wine industry. This disease mainly affects Syrah (Shiraz) grapevines. Characteristic symptoms include the bright and uniform reddening of leaves throughout the canopy in late summer or early fall; the appearance of abnormalities on the trunk, mainly at the graft union (swelling, pits, grooves, and necrosis); and a reduction in vine vigor, yield and berry quality. Diseased vines may die a few years after disease onset. Damages to the vine are even more pronounced in cool climate regions such as Ontario (Canada), where the affected vines are subjected to very cold and prolonged winters, leading to large numbers of vine deaths. Despite the extensive efforts of the global grape research community over the past few decades, the etiology of this disease remains unclear. In this study, we conducted extensive analyses of viruses in declining Syrah vines identified in commercial vineyards in the Niagara region (Ontario, Canada) through high-throughput sequencing, PCR, RT-PCR and the profiling of genetic variants of select viruses. Multiple viruses and viral strains, as well as three viroids, were identified. However, an unequivocal causal relationship cannot be established between Syrah decline and any of these viruses, although the possibility that certain virus or genetic variants, or both in combination, may contribute to the disease cannot be excluded. Gleaning all information that is available to date, we feel that the traditional approach and an insistence on finding a single cause for such a complex disorder in a woody perennial fruit crop involving grafting will prove to be futile. We hope that this study offers new conceptual perspectives on the etiology of this economically important but enigmatic disease complex that affects the global grape and wine industry.
Correction: Sutcliffe et al. Common Oral Medications Lead to Prophage Induction in Bacterial Isolates from the Human Gut. Viruses 2021, 13, 455
Authors: Sutcliffe Steven G. , Shamash Michael , Hynes Alexander P. , Maurice Corinne F.
Published: December 2022

In the original publication [...]
COVID-19 Risk Perception and Adherence to Preventive Measures among Medical Students after Receiving COVID-19 Vaccination: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study in Egypt
Authors: Hamad Abdullah Ashraf , Selim Rasha , Amer Basma E. , Diab Rehab Adel , Elazb Mahmoud , Elbanna Eman H. ,   MRGE Collaborative Group, Negida Ahmed
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to assess the perception of COVID-19 risk and the adherence to protective measures among medical students after vaccination. We conducted a cross-sectional survey on a convenience sample of students from all the 18 governmental medical schools in Egypt. A total of 2273 students participated in the online self-administered questionnaire. Around 8 in 10 (83.2%) students were fully vaccinated, of which 17.9% received the booster dose. Only 36.9% believed that COVID-19 is serious on the individual level. The majority (73.9%) strongly or slightly agreed they may become infected after vaccination if they do not follow the preventive measures. We observed a slow decline in the perceived risk of vulnerability and susceptibility to COVID-19 infection among students in parallel to a growing perception of self-efficacy and controllability. Less than one-third (28.9%) of students showed good adherence to protective measures. However, this was lower than the previously reported adherence in the same population before vaccination. Female students, those in the first academic year, those who did not contract COVID-19 infection before, and those with a higher perception of susceptibility and perceived controllability were more likely to perform better at protective measures.
Field Efficacy of a Feed-Based Inactivated Vaccine against Vibriosis in Cage-Cultured Asian Seabass, Lates calcarifer, in Malaysia
Authors: Amir-Danial Zahaludin , Zamri-Saad Mohd , Amal Mohammad Noor Azmai , Annas Salleh , Mohamad Aslah , Jumria Sutra , Manchanayake Tilusha , Arbania Ali , Ina-Salwany Md Yasin
Published: December 2022

Vibrio spp. are important aquaculture pathogens that cause vibriosis, affecting large numbers of marine fish species. This study determines the field efficacy of a feed-based inactivated vaccine against vibriosis in cage-cultured Asian seabass. A total of 4800 Asian seabass, kept in a field environment, were separated equally into two groups (vaccinated and non-vaccinated) in duplicate. Fish of Group 1 were orally administered the feed-based vaccine on weeks 0 (prime vaccination), 2 (booster), and 6 (second booster) at 4% body weight, while the non-vaccinated fish of Group 2 were fed with a commercial formulated pellet without the vaccine. Fish gut, mucus, and serum were collected, the length and weight of the fish were noted, while the mortality was recorded at 2-week intervals for a period of 16 weeks. The non-specific lysozyme activities were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the fish of Group 1 than the non-vaccinated fish of Group 2. Similarly, the specific IgM antibody levels in serum and mucus were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in Group 1 than in Group 2, as seen in the second week, with the highest level 8 weeks after primary immunization. At week 16, the growth performance was significantly (p < 0.05) better in Group 1 and showed lower bacterial isolation in the gut than Group 2. Despite the statistical insignificance (p > 0.05), the survival rate was slightly higher in Group 1 (71.3%) than Group 2 (67.7%). This study revealed that feed-based vaccination improves growth performance, stimulates innate and adaptive immune responses, and increases protection of cultured Asian seabass, L. calcarifer, against vibriosis.
COVID-19 Vaccines: How Efficient and Equitable Was the Initial Vaccination Process?
Authors: Das Jai K. , Chee Hsien Yao , Lakhani Sohail , Khan Maryam Hameed , Islam Muhammad , Muhammad Sajid , Bhutta Zulfiqar A.
Published: December 2022

With nearly 11 billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccine being administered, stark differences in the vaccination rates persist. Vaccine distribution initiatives such as COVAX and African Vaccine Acquisition Trust (AVAT) were formed to ensure equitable vaccine delivery. This review evaluates the initial COVID-19 vaccination efforts and the impact of different vaccine distribution initiatives on equitable vaccination coverage in the early phase. We conducted a descriptive and trend analysis with sub-groups by various context parameters of data on COVID-19 vaccination from December 2020 till February 2022, from four public databases including UNICEF, WHO, COVID-19 Task Force and Our World in Data to examine COVID-19 vaccine distribution progress and the contributions of vaccine procurement initiatives. We found that High Income Countries (HICs) had much higher vaccination rate (78.4%) than Lower-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) (55.5%) and Low-Income Countries (LICs) (10.9%). Large differentials (>80% to <10%) in the vaccination rates of eligible population of adults in LMICs and LICs existed. Differentials in the total vaccine doses delivered to each country ranged from 355.6% to 4.8% of the total population. In LICs, 53.3% of the total doses were obtained via COVAX, 30.9% by bilateral/multilateral agreements, 6.5% by donations and 3.8% by AVAT. In LMICs, 56.4% of total vaccines procured were via bilateral/multilateral agreements, 21.4% by COVAX, 4.2% by donations and 0.5% by AVAT. COVAX delivered 1 billion doses by January 2022 which constituted 53.2% and 21.4% of procured doses in LICs and LMICs. In LICs and LMICs, 6.5% and 4.2% of total doses were acquired through donations while 30.9% and 56.4% of doses were purchased. Despite global efforts, significant disparities were present in COVID-19 vaccination efforts amongst countries of different income groups. Future efforts should focus on addressing vaccine inequities explicitly and in improving global vaccine distribution.
Full-Lung Prophylaxis against SARS-CoV-2 by One-Shot or Booster Intranasal Lentiviral Vaccination in Syrian Golden Hamsters
Authors: Vesin Benjamin , Authié Pierre , Blanc Catherine , Fert Ingrid , Noirat Amandine , Le Chevalier Fabien , Wei Yu , Ku Min-Wen , Nemirov Kirill , Anna François , Hardy David , Planchais Cyril , Mouquet Hugo , Guinet Françoise , Charneau Pierre , Majlessi Laleh , Bourgine Maryline
Published: December 2022

Following the breakthrough of numerous severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants in recent months and the incomplete efficiency of the currently available vaccines, development of more effective vaccines is desirable. Non-integrative, non-cytopathic and non-inflammatory lentiviral vectors elicit sterilizing prophylaxis against SARS-CoV-2 in preclinical animal models and are particularly suitable for mucosal vaccination, which is acknowledged as the most effective in reducing viral transmission. Here, we demonstrate that a single intranasal administration of a vaccinal lentiviral vector encoding a stabilized form of the original SARS-CoV-2 Spike glycoprotein induces full-lung protection of respiratory tracts and strongly reduces pulmonary inflammation in the susceptible Syrian golden hamster model against the prototype SARS-CoV-2. In addition, we show that a lentiviral vector encoding stabilized Spike of SARS-CoV-2 Beta variant (LV::SBeta-2P) prevents pathology and reduces infectious viral loads in lungs and nasal turbinates following inoculation with the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant. Importantly, an intranasal boost with LV::SBeta-2P improves cross-seroneutralization much better in LV::SBeta-2P-primed hamsters than in their counterparts primed with an LV-encoding Spike from the ancestral SARS-CoV-2. These results strongly suggest that an immune imprint with the original Spike sequence has a negative impact on cross-protection against new variants. Our results tackle the issue of vaccine effectiveness in people who have already been vaccinated and have vanished immunity and indicate the efficiency of LV-based intranasal vaccination, either as a single dose or as booster.
Physiotherapeutic Strategies and Their Current Evidence for Canine Osteoarthritis
Authors: Mille Monika Anna , McClement Jamie , Lauer Susanne
Published: December 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and debilitating condition in domestic dogs. Alongside pharmaceutical interventions and weight loss, exercise and physiotherapy (PT) are important measures in maintaining patient mobility and quality of life. Physiotherapy for OA aims to reduce pain, optimize muscular function and maintain joint function. Physiotherapeutic plans typically include PT exercises combined with therapeutic modalities, lifestyle and environmental modifications to improve the patient’s overall quality of life and function. Information on therapeutic clinical efficacy of physiotherapeutic measures for canine OA is still very limited. Thus, physiotherapeutic strategies are still primarily based on evidence extrapolated from human protocols tailored to people with OA. The authors propose a simple systematic PT approach for canine OA, prioritizing measures according to simplicity, cost effectiveness and practicality. This guide (the “Physiotherapy Pyramid”) aims to provide a clear stratified approach to simplify decision making and planning for owners, veterinarians and veterinary physiotherapists, leading to more straightforward design and implementation of treatment plans. Measures are implemented starting at the base of the pyramid, subsequently progressing to the top, allowing effective and practical interventions to be prioritized. The levels of the pyramid are in ascending order: environmental modification, exercise plan, OA-specific home exercises and treatment by a veterinary physiotherapist.
Management of Macrolide Antibiotics (Erythromycin, Clarithromycin and Azithromycin) in the Environment: A Case Study of Environmental Pollution in Lithuania
Authors: Baranauskaite-Fedorova Inga , Dvarioniene Jolanta
Published: December 2022

Of all the antibiotics used today for human treatment in the world, macrolide antibiotics—erythromycin, clarithromycin and azithromycin—stand out the most for misuse, and they were included as high-risk substances in the monitoring Watch List of Regulation 2018/840/EU. The aim of the present research was to investigate the level of target human pharmaceuticals’ prevalence in the environment by the substance flow analysis (SFA) approach and to determine the potential risks of the antibiotics for the environment. The target for the environmental investigations was Lithuania. For SFA, 2021 consumption input data were used, and such key processes as the consumption rate, disposal and distribution of pharmaceuticals in the environment were analyzed. The analysis revealed that the largest part of pharmaceutical contaminants (80.1%) enters wastewater treatment plants. The risk quotient approach was based on the determination of predicted environmental concentrations (PECs), measured environmental concentrations (MECs) and their ratio to the predicted no-effect environmental concentrations (PNECs). The analysis revealed that clarithromycin causes a high potential risk for the aquatic environment in effluents from the wastewater treatment plants (WWTP); PEC/PNEC > 7. For azithromycin and erythromycin, the estimated PEC values were between 0.1 and 1. Clarithromycin concentration in the effluents of two target WWTPs showed a significant risk quotient (MEC/PNEC) of higher than 7. Recommendations on how to reduce the release of pharmaceutical residues into the environment have been proposed in the framework of the environmental management system.
Determinants of patient satisfaction with the quality of medical care
Authors:   FSAEI HE I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Moscow, Zabrodnyaya Ya. S.
Published: December 2022

The article discusses the quality of medical care and its standardization, standards for accreditation of the quality of medical care, and approaches to the concept of patient satisfaction. The analysis of sociological studies conducted in different countries was carried out in order to identify the socio-demographic characteristics of the impact on the satisfaction indicator. The key determinants of patient satisfaction with the quality of medical care were identified.
Hemostatic disorders in patients with post-COVID syndrome and non-drug correction methods
Authors:   Cardiology Department for Cardiac Arrhythmias Treatment, FSBI Federal Scientific and Clinical Center for Specialized Types of Medical Care and Medical Technologies, FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Chelombitko E.G. , Gusakova E.V. ,   epartment of Restorative Medicine and Medical Rehabilitation with courses in Pediatrics, Nursing, Clinical Psychology and Pedagogy, FSBI FPE Central State Medical Academy, Moscow
Published: December 2022

A study of the state of hemostasis and inflammatory markers in patients with post-COVID syndrome was conducted. An increase in the activity of procoagulant factors against the background of high values of inflammatory markers was found. The presence of a history of non-infectious chronic diseases significantly aggravates disorders in the hemostasis system, and the centers of correlation pleiades are the severity of leukocytosis and the degree of decrease in activated partial thromboplastin time. The use of standard therapy and interval hypoxic training for the treatment of post-COVID disorders did not have a significant effect on hemostatic parameters, but the anti-inflammatory effect was clearly manifested. Mesodiencephalic modulation (MDM therapy) had a significant normalizing effect on the coagulogram and inflammatory markers, and its combination with hypoxic exposure slightly enhanced the therapeutic effects. It is suggested that complex physiotherapy is viable in the treatment of post-COVID syndrome by influencing not only hemostasis and inflammatory reactions, but also non-regulatory mechanisms of the brain and respiratory organs.
Adherence to the use of the caprini score among Russian specialists: results of an electronic survey
Authors:   FSAEI HE N. I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Lobastov K. V. , Kovalchuk A. V. ,   FSAEI HE N. I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Barganzhiya A. B. ,   FSAEI HE N. I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Schastlivtsev I. V. ,   FSAEI HE N. I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Laberko L. A. ,   FSAEI HE N. I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia
Published: December 2022

The aim of the study was to assess the adherence of Russian doctors to the use of the Caprini risk assessment score for venous thromboembolism complications in real clinical practice. On the basis of the Google Forms platform, an electronic questionnaire was created, with an invitation to complete it sent out by e-mail and through social networks of the educational project «School of Thrombosis». The survey was conducted from October 20 to October 30, 2021. The answers were received from 270 respondents, of which 260 questionnaires from specialists working in Russia were included in the analysis. Among the doctors, specialists in vascular surgery, including phlebology, and general surgery from private clinics and city clinical hospitals prevailed. Up to 90 % of the Russian doctors of various medical specialties are aware of the Caprini scale, up to 77 % actively use it in clinical practice, up to 74 % of the specialists use the score results to make decisions on the tactics of primary prevention of venous thromboembolism complications, and up to 28 % of the respondents interact with the scale integrated into medical records in paper or electronic format. Most respondents noted the availability of modern means of pharmacological prevention, in particular, LMWH and DOAC, in their medical institutions. As for mechanical prophylaxis, elastic bandages and compression stockings were almost equally available, but methods of actively accelerating blood flow could be afforded by no more than 15 % of the respondents. Conclusions: most of the Russian doctors surveyed note a high adherence to the use of the Caprini scale to assess the risk of venous thromboembolic complications in real clinical practice.
Earlier cancer diagnosis in primary care: a feasibility economic analysis of ThinkCancer!
Authors: Anthony Bethany Fern , Disbeschl Stefanie , Goulden Nia , Hendry Annie , Hiscock Julia , Hoare Zoe , Roberts Jessica , Rose Jan , Surgey Alun , Williams Nefyn Howard , Walker Daniel , Neal Richard , Wilkinson Clare , Edwards Rhiannon Tudor
Published: December 2022

Background

UK cancer survival rates are much lower compared with other high-income countries. In primary care, there are opportunities for GPs and other healthcare professionals to act more quickly in response to presented symptoms that might represent cancer. ThinkCancer! is a complex behaviour change intervention aimed at primary care practice teams to improve the timely diagnosis of cancer.

Aim

To explore the costs of delivering the ThinkCancer! intervention to expedite cancer diagnosis in primary care.

Design & setting

Feasibility economic analysis using a micro-costing approach, which was undertaken in 19 general practices in Wales, UK.

Method

From an NHS perspective, micro-costing methodology was used to determine whether it was feasible to gather sufficient economic data to cost the ThinkCancer! intervention. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, ThinkCancer! was mainly delivered remotely online in a digital format. Budget impact analysis (BIA) and sensitivity analysis were conducted to explore the costs of face-to-face delivery of the ThinkCancer! intervention as intended pre-COVID-19.

Results

The total costs of delivering the ThinkCancer! intervention across 19 general practices in Wales was £25 030, with an average cost per practice of £1317 (standard deviation [SD]: 578.2). Findings from the BIA indicated a total cost of £34 630 for face-to-face delivery.

Conclusion

Data collection methods were successful in gathering sufficient health economics data to cost the ThinkCancer! intervention. Results of this feasibility study will be used to inform a future definitive economic evaluation alongside a pragmatic randomised controlled trial (RCT).
Linguistic patterns in the lexical-semantic subsystem of new public administration: typology and features
Authors: Okolyshev Daniil A. , Karabulatova Irina S. , Lagutkina Margarita D. , Zavarzina Galina A. , Savchuk Irina P.
Published: December 2022

The authors analyzed the confeptosphere of public administration from the position of representation in the Rus-sian language as an area of increased interest from the controlling structures in the field of state security. The au-thors relied on the postulates of the presence of three dimensions inherent in verbal signs: due to the indirect connec-tions of words and objects of semantics, determined by the relationship of words to each other syntagmatics and due to the relationship of words and communicants of pragmatics; about the discreteness and continuity of verbal signs, about the relative simplicity and minimal variability of intersystem relations between them, about the limited motivation of verbal signs and the inverse proportion of morphemic complexity and semantic structure of the word. The focus of attention is on studying the influence of language patterns on the functioning of the “dominant” lexi-cal-semantic subsystem of public administration in the Russian language of the recent period, associated with the ideas about the specifics of public administration focused on ensuring law and order and constitutionally estab-lished rights and freedoms of citizens. The paper concludes that lexical and semantic patterns are important in de-termining the main trends in the development of the lexical system of the Russian language in general, individual subsystems and language signs in particular.