bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The shape-dependent inhibitory effect of rhein/silver nanocomposites on porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus
Authors: Ren Caifeng , Ke Qiyun , Fan Xiaoxia , Ning Keke , Wu Yuan , Liang Jiangong
Published: October 2023

Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs)/nanopreparations as viral antagonists exhibited a structure–function correlation, i.e., the differences in surface area/volume ratio caused by the variations in shape and size could result in different biochemical properties and biological activities, suggesting an important impact of morphology and structure on the antiviral activity of TCM-based nanoparticles. However, few studies paid attention to this aspect. Here, the effect of TCM-based nanoparticles with different morphologies on their antiviral activity was explored by synthesizing rhein/silver nanocomposites (Rhe@AgNPs) with spherical (S-Rhe/Ag) and linear (L-Rhe/Ag) morphologies, using rhein (an active TCM ingredient) as a reducing agent and taking its self-assembly advantage. Using porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) as a model virus, the inhibitory effects of S-Rhe/Ag and L-Rhe/Ag on PRRSV were compared. Results showed that the product morphology could be regulated by varying pH values, and both S- and L-Rhe/Ag exhibited good dispersion and stability, but with a smaller size for L-Rhe/Ag. Antiviral experiments revealed that Rhe@AgNPs could effectively inhibit PRRSV infection, but the antiviral effect was morphology-dependent. Compared with L-Rhe/Ag, S-Rhe/Ag could more effectively inactivate PRRSV in vitro and antagonize its adsorption, invasion, replication, and release stages. Mechanistic studies indicated that Rhe@AgNPs could reduce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by PRRSV infection, and S-Rhe/Ag also had stronger ROS inhibitory effect. This work confirmed the inhibitory effect of Rhe@AgNPs with different morphologies on PRRSV and provided useful information for treating PRRSV infection with metal nanoparticles synthesized from TCM ingredients.

Graphical abstract
Risk factors of stress urinary incontinence in pelvic organ prolapse patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fitri Andiva Nurul , Kurniawati Eighty Mardiyan , Wiyasihati Sundari Indah , Wungu Citrawati Dyah Kencono
Published: October 2023

Background

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) commonly coexist as global problems that affect the quality of life of millions of women. The study aimed to identify the risk factors of stress urinary incontinence in pelvic organ prolapse patients.

Main body

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus based on the PRISMA flowchart. The quality of the study was assessed using Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and data were collected on a modified table from The Cochrane Library. Meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4. Seven hundred forty studies were found that matched the keywords. After the screening, 16 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria with a total of 47.615 participants with pelvic organ prolapse. A total of 27 risk factors were found in this review. History of hysterectomy (OR = 2.01; 95% CI 1.22–3.33;p = 0.007), obesity (OR = 1.15; 95% CI 1.02–1.29;p = 0.02), and diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.85; 95% CI 1.06–3.23;p = 0.03) were shown to be risk factor of stress urinary incontinence in pelvic organ prolapse patients.

Conclusions

History of hysterectomy, obesity, and diabetes mellitus were found to be the risk factors of stress urinary incontinence in pelvic organ prolapse patients.
Simple, low-cost, and well-performing method, the outgrowth technique, for the isolation of cells from nasal polyps
Authors: Kim Jonghui , Hegener Karla , Hagedorn Claudia , Weidinger Daniel , Jamal Jameel Kashin , Seuthe Inga Marte Charlott , Eichhorn Sabine , Kreppel Florian , Park Jonas Jae-Hyun , Knobloch Jürgen
Published: October 2023

Background

Epithelial cells are an important part of the pathomechanism in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. It is therefore essential to establish a robust method for the isolation and culture of epithelial cells from nasal polyps to enable further research. In this study, the feasibility of the outgrowth technique for the isolation of the epithelial cells from the nasal polyps was evaluated.

Results

Using the outgrowth technique, epithelial cells could be isolated from all tissue samples. Isolated epithelial cells showed a proliferation rate of approximately 7- to 23-fold every 6 days up to the 3rd passage. Over 97% of isolated cells were shown to be cytokeratin- and p63-positive, and over 86% of them were Ki-67–positive in flow cytometry. Interleukin-33 and periostin were detectable in the supernatant.

Conclusions

We introduce a simple, low-cost, and well-performing method for isolating epithelial cells from nasal polyps with the outgrowth technique.
Effects of personal and health characteristics on the intrinsic capacity of older adults in the community: a cross-sectional study using the healthy aging framework
Authors: Jiang Xin , Chen Fenghui , Yang Xuanxuan , Yang Mei , Zhang Xuehong , Ma Xuan , Yan Ping
Published: October 2023

Background

Intrinsic capacity (IC) can better reflect the physical functioning of older adults. However, few studies have been able to systematically and thoroughly examine its influencing factors and provide limited evidence for the improvement of intrinsic capacity. The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive description of the overall decline in intrinsic capacity among older persons in the community. Additionally, the study aimed to analyze the composition of the five domains of reduction, compare the rate of decline among older adults and investigate the factors that influence this decline.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Chinese community. The self-designed general characteristics questionnaire was created based on the healthy aging framework and a systematic review. Intrinsic capacity was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), Community Health Record Management System (CHRMS), Mini Nutritional Assessment Brief Form (MNA-SF), and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). The influencing factors of intrinsic capacity were investigated using stepwise logistic regression.

Results

A total of 968 older adults with a mean age of 71.00 (68.00, 76.75) were examined, and 704 older adults (72.7%) showed a decline in intrinsic capacity. There was a decline in at least one domain in 39.3% of older adults, with reductions in each domain ranging from 5.3% (psychological) to 52.4% (sensory). The study examined the composition of domains that experienced a decline in intrinsic capacity. It was found that a combination of sensory and locomotor domains showed the most significant decrease in 44.5% (n = 106) of individuals who experienced a decline in the two domains. Furthermore, a combination of sensory, cognitive, and locomotor domains exhibited a significant decrease in 51.3% (n = 44) of individuals who experienced a reduction in three domains. Lastly, a combination of sensory, vitality, cognitive, and locomotor domains showed the most significant decline in four domains, accounting for 60.0% (n = 15) of the population. Older adults had a higher risk of intrinsic capacity decline if they were older (95% CI:1.158–2.310), had lower education, lived alone (95% CI: 1.133–3.216), smoked (95% CI: 1.163–3.251), high Charlson Comorbidity Index (95% CI: 1.243–1.807) scores, did not regular exercise (95% CI:1.150–3.084), with lower handgrip strength (95% CI: 0.945–0.982).

Conclusions

We found a relatively high prevalence of intrinsic capacity; more attention should be paid to older adults who are older, less educated, live alone, and have more comorbidities. It is imperative to prioritize a healthy lifestyle among older persons who exhibit smoking habits, lack regular exercise, and possess inadequate handgrip strength.
The timing of durvalumab administration affects the risk of pneumonitis in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Zhenyi , Zhong Wen , Luo Yixuan , Wu Chunli
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The PACIFIC study has demonstrated that the administration of durvalumab following concurrent chemoradiotherapy can significantly improve both overall survival and progression-free survival rates in patients with locally advanced unresectable non-small cell lung cancer. While the latest NCCN guidelines recommend this combination regimen, they do not specify the optimal timing for administering durvalumab after completing radiotherapy. The PACIFIC study suggested initiating durvalumab within 42 days of completing radiotherapy, but early administration of the drug may increase the incidence of pneumonitis. Therefore, we conducted this study to investigate whether the time interval between completion of radiotherapy and initiation of durvalumab treatment is associated with the risk of pneumonitis (Grade ≥ 3), which is the primary endpoint, as well as progression-free survival, which is the secondary endpoint.

Methods

A comprehensive search of clinical trials in PubMed and EMBASE was conducted up to March 2023 to identify clinical trials involving locally advanced unresectable non-small cell lung cancer patients who were treated with durvalumab following chemoradiotherapy. Meta-analysis was performed on single-arm studies to estimate the incidence of pneumonitis (Grade ≥ 3) and progression-free survival in all studies, as well as in studies that administered durvalumab within 42 days after completion of radiotherapy.

Results

This meta-analysis consisted of nine studies with a total of 2560 patients. The analysis showed that the incidence of pneumonitis (Grade ≥ 3) was 5.36% [95%CI (0.03, 0.08), I2 = 18.41%, p = 0.29], while the 1-year progression-free survival rate was 57.91% [95%CI (0.53, 0.63), I2 = 10.57%, p = 0.35]. Furthermore, when the duration between completion of radiotherapy and initiation of durvalumab treatment was shorter than 42 days, the incidence of pneumonitis (Grade ≥ 3) was 4.12% [95%CI (0.02, 0.06), I2 = 0.00%, p = 0.56], with a 1-year progression-free survival rate of 61.03% [95%CI (0.51, 0.71), I2 = 59.06%, p = 0.09].

Conclusion

Overall, based on the available evidence, it appears that there is no significant increase in pneumonitis or decrease in progression-free survival (PFS) when the time interval is less than 42 days and a shorter interval between treatment sessions does not necessarily have a detrimental effect on the rate of pneumonitis. We recommend that clinicians carefully evaluate the specific circumstances of each patient to determine the optimal timing for initiating immunotherapy.
High number of hypoglycaemic episodes identified by CGM among home-dwelling older people with diabetes: an observational study in Norway
Authors: Fløde Mari , Hermann Monica , Haugstvedt Anne , Søfteland Eirik , Igland Jannicke , Åsberg Anders , Jenssen Trond Geir , Graue Marit
Published: October 2023

Background

A scoping review from 2021 identified a lack of studies on the incidence, prevention and management of hypoglycaemia in home-dwelling older people with diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency and duration of hypoglycaemic episodes measured by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in older people with diabetes who received home care and who were treated with glucose-lowering medications, and to compare the frequency and duration of hypoglycaemic episodes between subgroups of the study population according to demographic and clinical variables.

Methods

This was an observational study investigating the occurrence of hypoglycaemia in people with diabetes aged ≥ 65 years. Data were collected using blinded continuous glucose monitoring (CGM, iPro2) for 5 consecutive days. Frequency and duration of hypoglycaemic episodes were assessed using a sensor glucose cut-off value of 3.9 mmol/L. A blood sample for measurement of HbA1c and creatinine-based eGFR (CKD-EPI) was obtained during the monitoring period. Demographic and clinical data were collected from electronic patient records.

Results

Fifty-six individuals were enrolled (median age 82 years and 52% were men). Of the 36 participants who were treated with insulin, 33% had at least one hypoglycaemic episode during the five-day period. Among 18 participants who neither used insulin nor sulfonylurea, but other glucose-lowering medications, 44% had at least one hypoglycaemicepisode. Of those with hypoglycaemic episodes, 86% lived alone. The median duration of the hypoglycaemia was 1 h and 25 min, ranging from 15 min to 8 h and 50 min.

Conclusion

This study identified an unacceptably high number of unknown hypoglycaemic episodes among older home-dwelling people with diabetes receiving home care, even among those not using insulin or sulfonylurea. The study provides essential knowledge that can serve as a foundation to improve the treatment and care for this vulnerable patient group. The routines for glucose monitoring and other prevention tasks need to be considered more comprehensively, also, among those treated with glucose-lowering medications other than insulin.
Innovative communication approaches for initializing pediatric palliative care: perspectives of family caregivers and treating specialists
Authors: Hrdlickova Lucie , Polakova Kristyna , Loucka Martin
Published: October 2023

Background

Effective cooperation between a pediatric palliative care team (PPCT), primary treating specialists, patients and families is crucial for high quality care of children with complex life-limiting conditions. Several barriers among patients, families and treating specialists have been identified in the context of initializing pediatric palliative care. The aim of the study was to assess the experience with initial pediatric palliative care consultations from perspectives of family caregivers and treating physicians with a special focus on two innovative approaches: attendance of the treating specialist and the opportunity for parents to give feedback on the written report from the consultation.

Methods

This was a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with family caregivers of children with malignant and non-malignant disease and their treating specialists. Framework analysis was used to guide the data collection and data analysis.

Results

In total, 12 family caregivers and 17 treating specialists were interviewed. Four main thematic categories were identified: (1) expectations, (2) content and evaluation, (3) respect and support from the team and (4) consultation outcomes. Parents viewed the consultation as a unique opportunity to discuss difficult topics. They perceived the attendance of the treating specialist at the initial consultation as very important for facilitating communication. Treating specialists valued the possibility to learn more about psychosocial issues of the child and the family while attending the initial palliative care consultation. All participants perceived the written report from the consultation as useful for further medical decisions. Family members appreciated the chance to give feedback on the consultation report.

Conclusions

Our study identified several clinically relevant issues that can help initialize pediatric palliative care and establish effective collaboration between families and PPCT and treating specialists. Supporting treating specialists in their ability to explain the role of palliative care is important in order to reduce the risk of misunderstanding or unrealistic expectations. Developing more specific expectations seems to be one of the ways to further increase the effectiveness of initial consultations. The results of the study can be especially helpful for the initial phase of implementing pediatric palliative care and initializing the process of setting up a collaborative relationship with palliative care teams in the hospital.
Bronchial epithelial gene expression and interstitial lung abnormalities
Authors: Menon Aravind A. , Lee Minyi , Ke Xu , Putman Rachel K. , Hino Takuya , Rose Jonathan A. , Duan Fenghai , Ash Samuel Y. , Cho Michael H. , O’Connor George T. , Dupuis Josée , Hatabu Hiroto , Lenburg Marc E. , Billatos Ehab S. , Hunninghake Gary M. ,   the DECAMP Investigators, Spira Avi , Moses Elizabeth , Beane Jennifer , Campbell Josh , Cunningham Jack , Liu Gang , Liu Hanqiao , Zhang Sherry , Zhang Jiarui , Shi Xingyi , Merenstein Carter , Zhao Yue , Aberle Denise , Schnall Mitchell , Apgar Charles , Mahon Irene , Dymond Lindsey , Bauza Joe , Gevo Sarah , Gastonis Constantine , Marquez Helga , Elashoff David , Wistuba Ignacio , Kadara Humam , Fujimoto Junya , Dalgard Clifton , Wilkerson Matthew , Aberle Denise , Washko George , Kinsey Charles M. , Fine Denise , Goldstein Ron , LaCerda Kathleen , Battaile John , Kroll Mitchell , Keith Bob , Jackson Mary , Dubinett Steve , Lee Gina , Aryanfar Babak , Corona Rafael , Vachani Anil , Soloman Sam , Atwood Charles , Owens Gregory , Edvardsson Hanna , Massion Pierre , Helton Trey , Reid Mary , Kuzniewski Chris , Carmichael Jacob , LaPerriere Holly , ScottParrish J. , White Lindsey , Kaur Anna , Browning Robert , Nelissery Maggie , Akanni Folashade , Rojas Luis
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Interstitial lung abnormalities (ILA) often represent early fibrotic changes that can portend a progressive fibrotic phenotype. In particular, the fibrotic subtype of ILA is associated with increased mortality and rapid decline in lung function. Understanding the differential gene expression that occurs in the lungs of participants with fibrotic ILA may provide insight into development of a useful biomarker for early detection and therapeutic targets for progressive pulmonary fibrosis.

Methods

Measures of ILA and gene expression data were available in 213 participants in the Detection of Early Lung Cancer Among Military Personnel (DECAMP1 and DECAMP2) cohorts. ILA was defined using Fleischner Society guidelines and determined by sequential reading of computed tomography (CT) scans. Primary analysis focused on comparing gene expression in ILA with usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern with those with no ILA.

Results

ILA was present in 51 (24%) participants, of which 16 (7%) were subtyped as ILA with a UIP pattern. One gene, pro platelet basic protein (PPBP) and seventeen pathways (e.g. TNF-α signalling) were significantly differentially expressed between those with a probable or definite UIP pattern of ILA compared to those without ILA. 16 of these 17 pathways, but no individual gene, met significance when comparing those with ILA to those without ILA.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that abnormal inflammatory processes are apparent in the bronchial airway gene expression profiles of smokers with and without lung cancer with ILA. Future studies with larger and more diverse populations will be needed to confirm these findings.
Measuring women’s experiences during antenatal care (ANC): scoping review of measurement tools
Authors: Mehrtash Hedieh , Stein Karin , Barreix Maria , Bonet Mercedes , Bohren Meghan A. , Tunçalp Özge
Published: October 2023

Background

The new WHO model for antenatal care (ANC) focuses on improving practice, organisation and delivery of ANC within health systems, which includes both clinical care and women’s experiences of care. The goal of this review is to identify tools and measures on women’s experiences of ANC.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review to identify tools and measures on women’s experiences of ANC. An iterative approach was used to review all tools in a series of four steps: (1) identify papers between 2007 and 2023; (2) identify the tools from these papers; (3) map relevant measures to conceptualizations of experiences of care, notably mistreatment of women and respectful maternity care and (4) identify gaps and opportunities to improve measures.

Results

Across the 36 tools identified, a total of 591 measures were identified. Of these, 292/591 (49.4%) measures were included and mapped to the typology of mistreatment of women used as a definition for women’s experiences care during ANC in this review, while 299/591 (44.9%) irrelevant measures were excluded. Across the included measures, the highest concentration was across the domains of poor rapport between women and providers (49.8%) followed by failure to meet professional standards of care (23.3%). Approximately, 13.9% of measures were around overall respectful care, followed by health systems (6.3%), and any  physical or verbal abuse, stigma and/or discrimination (4.8%) .

Conclusion

This analysis provides an overview of the existing tools, gaps and opportunities to measure women’s experiences during ANC. Expanding beyond the childbirth period, these findings can be used to inform existing and future tools for research and monitoring measuring women’s experiences of ANC.
Prevalence of asymptomatic Leishmania infection and knowledge, perceptions, and practices in blood donors in mainland Portugal
Authors: Rocha Rafael , Gonçalves Luzia , Conceição Cláudia , Andrade Patrícia , Cristóvão José Manuel , Condeço Jorge , Delgado Beatriz , Caeiro Cristina , Kuzmenko Tetyana , Vasconcelos Eugénia , Escoval Maria Antónia , Rey Carmen , Guz Madalina , Norte Cláudia , Aldeia Carlos , Cruz Diego , Maia Carla
Published: October 2023

Background

Asymptomatic infection is the most common outcome of exposure to Leishmania parasites. In the Mediterranean region, where Leishmania infantum is endemic, studies on the prevalence of asymptomatic infection have often relied on serological testing in blood donors. In Spain, regional studies have shown seroprevalence in blood donors between 1 and 8%; in Portugal, values of 0 and 2% were suggested by two localized studies, in different populations. The purpose of this study was (i) to estimate the prevalence of asymptomatic Leishmania infection in blood donors in mainland Portugal, and (ii) to study the association between the detection of antibodies to Leishmania and sociodemographic factors, and also the knowledge, perceptions and practices (KPP) of the blood donors regarding leishmaniasis.

Methods

A cross-sectional study targeted the population of people who donated blood in mainland Portugal. Participants, distributed proportionally by municipality and aged between 18 and 65 years, were selected randomly in 347 blood collection points between February and June 2022, and completed a sociodemographic and a KPP questionnaire. Detection of anti-Leishmania antibodies in serum was performed using an ELISA commercial kit. Individual KPP scores were calculated by adding grades defined for each question.

Results

Globally, 201/3763 samples were positive. The estimated national true seroprevalence was 4.8% (95% CI 4.1–5.5%). The proportion of positive results was significantly different between NUTS (Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics) regions. Models suggested that seropositivity was significantly higher in male sex, people older than 25 years, or residing in the Centro NUTS2 region, but not in dog owners nor people with lower KPP scores. Overall, 72.3% of participants had previously heard of leishmaniasis and, in multivariate analysis, a higher Knowledge score was associated with age 25–40 years, female sex, ownership of dogs, and higher education.

Conclusions

Global estimated true seroprevalence (4.8%) was similar to previous regional studies in blood donors in neighboring Spain. Higher seroprevalence values in the NUTS2 Centro region were consistent with incidence data from humans and seroprevalence studies in dogs. On the other hand, the low values in the Alentejo and the high values in the northern subregions may be the result of geographical shifts in parasite circulation due to climate change and should prompt localized and integrated, vector, canine, and human research, following a One Health approach.

Graphical Abstract
Resistance profiles, virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes of XDR S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium
Authors: Algammal Abdelazeem M. , El-Tarabili Reham M. , Abd El-Ghany Wafaa A. , Almanzalawi Enas A. , Alqahtani Tahani M. , Ghabban Hanaa , Al-otaibi Amenah S. , Alatfeehy Nayera M. , Abosleima Naira M. , Hetta Helal F. , Badawy Ghada A.
Published: October 2023

Avian salmonellosis is concomitant with high financial crises in the poultry industry as well as food-borne illness in man. The present study is designed to investigate the emergence ofSalmonellaEnteritidis andSalmonellaTyphimurium in diseased broilers, resistance profiles, and monitoring virulence and antibiotic resistance genes. Consequently, 450 samples (cloacal swabs, liver, and spleen) were collected from 150 diseased birds from different farms in Giza Governorate, Egypt. Subsequently, the bacteriological examination was done. Afterward, the obtainedSalmonellaisolates were tested for serogrouping, antibiogram, PCR monitoring of virulence (invA,stn,hilA, andpefA), and antimicrobial resistance genes (blaTEM,blaCTX-M,blaNDM,ermA,sul1,tetA, andaadA1). The total prevalence of Salmonellain the examined diseased broilers was 9.3%, and the highest prevalence was noticed in cloacal swabs. Among the recovered Salmonella isolates (n = 35), 20 serovars were recognized as S. Enteritidis and 15 serovars were identified as S. Typhimurium. Almost 60% of the retrieved S. Enteritidis serovars were extensively drug-resistant (XDR) to seven antimicrobial classes and inherited sul1,blaTEM,tetA,blaCTX-M,ereA, andaadA1 genes. Likewise, 25% of the recovered S.Enteritidis serovars were multidrug-resistant (MDR) to six classes and havesul1,blaTEM, tetA,blaCTX-M, andereA resistance genes. Also, 66.7% of the retrieved S. Typhimurium serovars were XDR to seven classes and have sul1, blaTEM,tetA,blaCTX-M,ereA, andaadA1 genes. Succinctly, this report underlined the reemergence of XDR S. Typhimurium and S. Enteritidis in broiler chickens. Meropenem and norfloxacin exposed a hopeful antimicrobial activity toward the re-emerging XDR S. Typhimurium and S. Enteritidis in broilers. Moreover, the recurrence of these XDRSalmonellastrains poses a potential public health threat.
A protocol for ongoing systematic scoping reviews of World Trade Center Health research
Authors: Concannon Thomas W. , Chari Ramya , Lee Justin , Hiatt Liisa , Faherty Laura J.
Published: October 2023

Background

The World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program (“Program”) seeks to assess the inventory, quality, and impact of its funded research in the context of all clinical and translational research involving WTC populations. This paper presents a protocol for ongoing scoping reviews of WTC-related health research.

Methods

Using terms relevant to the September 11 attacks, we will search OVID MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Embase for records of peer-reviewed publications. Title, abstract, and full text screening will be used to exclude records according to a priori criteria. Data abstraction will be performed on all articles that meet inclusion criteria using a standardized query form that was developed in collaboration with NIOSH. A team of reviewers will be trained to abstract data from included articles. Articles will be double-reviewed, and disagreements will be adjudicated.

Results

We will summarize existing research involving WTC populations. The summary will assess the extent, nature, and signals of impact of WTC-related health research.

Conclusions

Our review will lay the groundwork for additional study of research impact by identifying population, clinical, and translational topics that can be assessed through future focused reviews. It will also support planning activities by Program policy makers and stakeholders as they work to achieve the Program’s research goals.

Systematic review registration

This publication serves as documentation of the protocol.
Stability and dynamics of a stochastic discrete fractional-order chaotic system with short memory
Authors: Ran Jie , Qiu Jixiu , Zhou Yonghui
Published: October 2023

In this paper, a stochastic discrete fractional-order chaotic system with short memory is proposed, which possesses two equilibrium points. With the help of the Lyapunov function theory, some sufficient conditions for the stability in probability of the two equilibrium points are given. Secondly, the effects of fractional order and memory steps on the stability of the system are discussed. Finally, the path dynamical behavior of the system is investigated using numerical methods such as Lyapunov exponents, bifurcation diagram, phase diagram, and 0–1 test. The numerical simulation results validate the findings.
How are primary school computer science curricular reforms contributing to equity? Impact on student learning, perception of the discipline, and gender gaps
Authors: El-Hamamsy Laila , Bruno Barbara , Audrin Catherine , Chevalier Morgane , Avry Sunny , Zufferey Jessica Dehler , Mondada Francesco
Published: October 2023

Background

Early exposure to Computer Science (CS) and Computational Thinking (CT) for all is critical to broaden participation and promote equity in the field. But how does the introduction of CS and CT into primary school curricula impact learning, perception, and gaps between groups of students?

Methodology

We investigate a CS-curricular reform and teacher Professional Development (PD) programme from an equity standpoint by applying hierarchical regression and structural equation modelling on student learning and perception data from three studies with, respectively, 1384, 2433 and 1644 grade 3–6 students (ages 7–11) and their 83, 142 and 95 teachers.

Results

Regarding learning, exposure to CS instruction appears to contribute to closing the performance gap between low-achieving and high-achieving students, as well as pre-existing gender gaps. Despite a lack of direct influence of what was taught on student learning, there is no impact of teachers’ demographics or motivation on student learning, with teachers’ perception of the CS-PD positively influencing learning. Regarding perception, students perceive CS and its teaching tools (robotics, tablets) positively, and even more so when they perceive a role model close to them as doing CS. Nonetheless, gender differences exist all around with boys perceiving CS more positively than girls despite access to CS education. However, access to CS-education affects boys and girls differently: larger gender gaps are closing (namely those related to robotics), while smaller gaps are increasing (namely those related to CS and tablets).

Conclusion

This article highlights how a CS curricular reform impacts learning, perception, and equity and supports the importance of (i) early introductions to CS for all; (ii) preparing teachers to teach CS all the while removing the influence of teacher demographics and motivation on student outcomes; and (iii) having developmentally appropriate activities that signal to all groups of students.
Periodic oscillations of Doppler frequency excited by the traveling ionospheric disturbances associated with the Tonga eruption in 2022
Authors: Nakata Hiroyuki , Hosokawa Keisuke , Saito Susumu , Otsuka Yuichi , Tomizawa Ichoro
Published: October 2023

The explosive eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano on 15 January 2022 generated atmospheric waves traveling around the Earth, which caused ionospheric disturbances on various spatio-temporal scales. A HF Doppler sounding system in Japan detected characteristic ionospheric disturbances showing periodic oscillations in the Doppler frequency with a period of ~ 4 min. In this study, such periodic oscillations were examined by comparing Doppler frequency data with Total Electron Content data obtained by Global Navigation Satellite System. The observed periodic oscillations in the Doppler frequency were characterized by a sawtooth or S-letter shaped variation, implying the passage of the traveling ionospheric disturbances through the reflection points of the HF Doppler sounding system. It was also found that the periodic oscillations occurred prior to the arrival of the tropospheric Lamb wave excited by the Tonga eruption. From the total electron content data, the traveling ionospheric disturbances causing the periodic oscillations were excited by the tropospheric Lamb waves at the conjugate point in the southern hemisphere, namely, the electric field perturbations due to the Lamb waves in the southern hemisphere mapped onto the sensing area of the HF Doppler sounding system in the northern hemisphere along the magnetic field lines. The periodic oscillations were observed only in the path between Chofu transmitter and Sarobetsu receiver, whose the radio propagation path is almost aligned in the north–south direction. This suggests that the traveling ionospheric disturbance has a structure elongating in the meridional direction. The variation in the Doppler frequency was reproduced by using a simple model of the propagation of the traveling ionospheric disturbances and the resultant motion of the reflection point. As a result, the vertical motion of the reflection point associated with the periodic oscillations was estimated to be about 1 km. It is known that 4-min period variations are sometimes observed in association with earthquakes, which is due to resonances of acoustic mode waves propagating between the ground and the lower ionosphere. Therefore, a similar resonance structure in the southern hemisphere is a plausible source of the traveling ionospheric disturbances detected in the northern hemisphere.

Graphical Abstract
Detection of hidden earthquakes after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake by automatic hypocenter determination combined with machine learning
Authors: Tamaribuchi Koji , Kudo Shota , Shimojo Kengo , Hirose Fuyuki
Published: October 2023

After the 2011 Mw 9.0 Tohoku earthquake, seismicity became extremely active throughout Japan. Despite enormous efforts to detect the large number of earthquakes, microearthquakes (M < 2 inland, M < 3 offshore) were not always cataloged and many have remained undetected, making it difficult to understand the detailed seismicity after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake. We developed an automatic hypocenter determination method combined with machine learning to detect microearthquakes. Machine learning was used for phase classification with convolutional neural networks and ensemble learning to remove false detections. We detected > 920,000 earthquakes from March 2011 to February 2012, triple the number of the conventional earthquake catalog (~ 320,000). This represents a great improvement in earthquake detection, especially in and around the Tohoku region. Detailed analysis of our merged catalog more clearly revealed features such as (1) swarm migrations, (2) small foreshock activity, and (3) increased microseismicity preceding repeating earthquakes. This microseismic catalog provides a magnifying glass for understanding detailed seismicity.

Graphical Abstract
Interference screws manufactured from magnesium display similar primary stability for soft tissue anterior cruciate ligament graft fixation compared to a biocomposite material – a biomechanical study
Authors: Deichsel Adrian , Glasbrenner Johannes , Raschke Michael J. , Klimek Matthias , Peez Christian , Briese Thorben , Herbst Elmar , Kittl Christoph
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Biodegradable interference screws (IFS) can be manufactured from different biomaterials. Magnesium was previously shown to possess osteoinductive properties, making it a promising material to promote graft‐bone healing in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The purpose of this study was to compare IFS made from magnesium to a contemporary biocomposite IFS.

Methods

In a porcine model of ACL reconstruction, deep porcine flexor tendons were trimmed to a diameter of 8 mm, sutured in Krackow technique, and fixed with either 8 × 30 mm biocomposite IFS (Bc‐IFS) or 8 × 30 mm magnesium IFS (Mg‐IFS) in an 8 mm diameter bone tunnel in porcine tibiae. Cyclic loading for 1000 cycles from 0 to 250 N was applied, followed by load to failure testing. Elongation, load to failure and stiffness of the tested constructs was determined.

Results

After 1000 cycles at 250 N, elongation was 4.8 mm ± 1.5 in the Bc‐IFS group, and 4.9 mm ± 1.5 in the Mg‐IFS group. Load to failure was 649.5 N ± 174.3 in the Bc‐IFS group, and 683.8 N ± 116.5 in the Mg‐IFS group. Stiffness was 125.3 N/mm ± 21.9 in the Bc‐IFS group, and 122.5 N/mm ± 20.3 in the Mg‐IFS group. No significant differences regarding elongation, load to failure and stiffness between Bc‐IFS and Mg‐IFS were observed.

Conclusion

Magnesium IFS show comparable biomechanical primary stability in comparison to biocomposite IFS and may therefore be an alternative to contemporary biodegradable IFS.
Update on prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from diabetic foot ulcers in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Makeri Danladi , Odoki Martin , Eilu Emmanuel , Agwu Ezera
Published: October 2023

Background

Diabetes mellitus is increasing in Africa, and diabetes-related amputations exacerbated by diabetic foot infection are also prevalent with Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa two priority pathogens playing key roles. Understanding the local epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance profiles of these dominant pathogens is crucial for appropriate antibiotic therapy.

Main body of abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to contribute valuable insights that can guide the management of diabetic foot ulcer-related infections in Africa by comprehensively analyzing the available literature on the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in infected diabetic foot ulcers across Africa. We conducted a continent-based literature search utilizing PubMed and Scopus databases on June 11th, 2023, to identify studies conducted in Africa among persons with diabetic foot ulcers that reported isolating bacteria from the foot ulcers. The main concepts related to this research, “diabetic foot ulcers”, “diabetic foot infections”, “bacteria” and “Africa” were expanded with their synonyms and combined using Boolean operators (AND, OR) to formulate the final search query. The selection and inclusion of studies followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). Our review revealed that approximately 4124 bacteria have been isolated from diabetic foot ulcers across 13 African countries. Staphylococcus aureus is the dominant species with a random effect pooled prevalence of 19.9% (95%CI: [16.19–23.84%]; I2 = 88.56% [82.26–92.62%]) followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa with 11.8% (95%CI: [8.67–15.23%]; I2 = 89.95% [84.67–93.41%]). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pooled 12.9% (95%CI: [3.99–25.89%]; I2 = 95.47% [93.68–96.75%]). Multidrug-resistant S.aureus and P. aeruginosa pooled prevalence is 26.4% (95%CI: [17.84–36.06%]; I2 = 71.16% [49.34–83.58%]) and 41.8% (95%CI: [27.38–56.91%]; I2 = 78.48% [60.80–88.18%]), respectively.

Short conclusion

Staphylococcus aureus dominates diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) isolates in Africa contrary to the prevailing assertion about Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, multidrug resistance among both species is high emphasizing the need for antimicrobial stewardship and utilization of other wound management protocols such as topical silver sulfadiazine (SSD) for the duo.
Ecosystem type and species’ traits help explain bird responses to spatial patterns of fire
Authors: Rainsford Frederick W. , Giljohann Katherine M. , Bennett Andrew F. , Clarke Michael F. , MacHunter Josephine , Senior Katharine , Sitters Holly , Watson Simon , Kelly Luke T.
Published: October 2023

Background

Understanding how temporal and spatial attributes of fire regimes, environmental conditions, and species’ traits interact to shape ecological communities will help improve biodiversity conservation in fire-affected areas. We compared the influence of time since the last fire at a site, and the area and diversity of post-fire successional vegetation surrounding a site (i.e., the “spatial context” of fire), on bird species and functional groups in two ecosystems in south-eastern Australia. These ecosystems, semi-arid “mallee” woodlands and temperate “foothill” forests, differ in stand-regeneration patterns, climate, and topography. For 22 bird species in mallee woodlands, 33 species in foothill forests and four functional groups of birds in both ecosystems, we fitted non-linear models that differed in fire regime predictor variables.

Results

In foothill forests, models that included both time since fireanda spatial context variable explained more variation in bird abundances than models that included only time since fireora spatial variable. In mallee woodlands, the addition of spatial attributes of fire helped explain the occurrence of several species, but this finding was muted when measured across all species. There were key differences between ecosystems in functional group responses to fire regimes. Canopy/upper-midstorey foragers were positively associated with the amount oflate-successional vegetation in mallee woodlands, but not in foothill forests. Lower-midstorey foragers showed a decline response to the amount oflate-successional vegetation in mallee woodlands and a contrasting incline response in foothill forests. However, lower-midstorey foragers showed a similar response to the amount of surroundingearly-successional vegetation in both ecosystems—decreasing in abundance when > 50% of the surrounding vegetation was early-successional.

Conclusions

The influence of fire regimes on birds varies among species within sites, across landscapes and between ecosystems. Species’ foraging traits influence bird associations with fire regimes, and help to make sense of a myriad of relationships, but are usefully understood in the context of ecosystem types and the regeneration patterns of their dominant flora. The spatial context of fire regimes is also important—the amount of successional vegetation surrounding a site influences bird abundance. Fire management strategies that incorporate the spatial contexts of fire regimes, as well as the temporal and ecological contexts of fire regimes, will have the greatest benefits for biodiversity.
Rice yellow stunt virus p3 protein enters the nucleus of leafhopper cell and localizes to viroplasm through interaction with N protein via importin α3-mediated pathway
Authors: Huang Zhejun , Ji Zhenxi , Wang Juan , Li Zhanpeng , Jiang Zhoumian , Ni Wei , Chen Hongyan , Wei Taiyun , Zhang Xiao-Feng
Published: October 2023

Rice yellow stunt virus (RYSV) P3 protein functions as a movement protein during viral infection of a plant host; its function in insect hosts remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the subcellular localization of P3 using leafhopper (Nephotettix cincticeps) cell cultures. Our results showed that P3 translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus in RYSV-infected leafhopper cells, where it interacted with the viral N protein as a constituent of viroplasms. Interfering with the P3 gene expression significantly suppressed viral infection in N. cincticeps. Finally, we demonstrate that the nuclear translocation of P3 in leafhopper cells depended on its interaction with RYSV N protein, which enters the nucleus via an interaction with importin α3. These findings unveil a previously unknown role for P3 in RYSV infection of the insect vector and provide valuable insights into the infection dynamics of plant rhabdoviruses.
Compound Bacillus alleviates diarrhea by regulating gut microbes, metabolites, and inflammatory responses in pet cats
Authors: Wang Fei , Mei Xiaoying , Wang Qi , Zhao Pengwei , Zhou Yuanhao , Tang Li , Wang Baikui , Xu Shujie , Li Xiang , Jin Qian , Xiao Yingping , Li Weifen
Published: October 2023

Background

Pet cats frequently have diarrhea in their daily life. Bacillus has a protective role that has crucial beneficial functions on intestinal homeostasis. The aim of this research was to investigate the effects of the compound Bacillus on the prevention of diarrhea, microbiota and metabolism in pet cats. A total of 20 pet cats (1–2 years old, 3.91 ± 0.92 kg) were randomly divided into two groups and fed with a basal diet (Control group), or a basal diet supplemented with 3 × 109 CFU/kg compound Bacillus (Probiotics group). The experiment lasted 33 days.

Results

Results showed that the compound Bacillus significantly reduced the rate of soft stools and diarrhea in pet cats compared with the control group (P < 0.05, n = 10). Meanwhile, compared with the control group, the probiotics group significantly decreased the content of IL-1β and IL-6 and significantly increased IL-10 (P < 0.05, n = 6) in the serum. In addition, feeding probiotics significantly increased the abundance of p_Patescibacter and g_Plectosphaerella, decreased the abundance of p_Firmicutes, p_Gemmatimonadetes, g_Ruminococcaceae_UCG-005, g_Ascochytahe and g_Saccharomyces in the feces of the pet cats (P < 0.05, n = 6). And it also can significantly increase the content of total SCFAs, acetic acid and butyric acid in the feces (P < 0.05, n = 6). The fecal and serum metabolomics analyses revealed that most fecal and serum compounds were involved in metabolism, particularly in chemical structure transformation maps and amino acid metabolism. Also, eugenitol and methyl sulfate were the most significantly increased serum metabolites, and log2FC were 38.73 and 37.12, respectively. Pearson’s correlation analysis showed that changes in serum metabolism and fecal microbiota were closely related to immune factors. There was also a strong correlation between serum metabolites and microbiota composition.

Conclusions

The results of this research highlight the potential of the compound Bacillus as a dietary supplement to alleviate diarrhea in pet cats.
Isolated pulmonary artery involvement in Takayasu arteritis: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Li Jie , Xu Jun , Bao Ping , Li Hongmei
Published: October 2023

Background

Takayasu arteritis (TAK) is a chronic inflammatory arteritis. It most often affects non-specific large vessel progressively, such as the aorta and its branches. The diagnosis in TAK is typically delayed. Isolated pulmonary artery involvement in Takayasu arteritis is uncommon. Owing to its rarity, the diagnosis is challenging and requires an integrated approach comprising clinical and imaging findings. In order to facilitate early diagnosis of TAK for clinicians, wider use of non-invasive imaging is impacting this.

Case presentation

In this report, we present the imaging characteristics of a rare isolated pulmonary artery involvement in Takayasu arteritis. Pulmonary computed tomography angiography revealed only limited thick walls of both proximal pulmonary artery and stenosis of pulmonary artery lumen, and the other large blood vessels were not involved. The patient undergone pulmonary endarterectomy and pulmonary angioplasty. Then, approximately one month afterward, she passed away due to heart failure.

Conclusions

Imaging examination is the main basis for diagnosing this disease. This impression might improve disease awareness among doctors and progress in diagnosis.