bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ursoricin, a bacteriocin of
Streptococcus ursoris
, has potent activity against methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
and vancomycin-resistant enterococci
Authors: Wang Chutian , Le Mi Nguyen-Tra , Kawada-Matsuo Miki , Hisatsune Junzo , Sugawara Yo , Arai Chika , Nakanishi Jun , Takeda Katsuhiro , Shiba Hideki , Sugai Motoyuki , Komatsuzawa Hitoshi 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

The emergence of drug-resistant bacteria, particularly methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), has increased the need to discover novel antimicrobial agents that are effective against these species. Here, we describe the identification and purification of the mutacin BHT-B-like gene locus and bacteriocin peptide from
Streptococcus ursoris
, which is closely related to
Streptococcus ratti
; hence, we named this bacteriocin ursoricin. Ursoricin is a cationic, chromosome-encoded peptide that has potent antimicrobial effects against Gram-positive pathogens, including MRSA and VRE, with minimum inhibitory concentrations in the micromolar range. Ursoricin also inhibits the biofilm formation of high biofilm-forming
S. aureus
. Antibacterial activity was retained after treatment at 100°C for 60 min at a pH range of 3–9 and was partially reduced by treatment with proteinase K for 2 h (63% residual activity). The potent anti-MRSA, anti-VRE, and antibiofilm effects of ursoricin suggest that it is a possible candidate for the treatment of MRSA, VRE, and biofilm-associated infections.

IMPORTANCE

The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria worldwide has posed a significant public health threat and economic burdens that make the identification and development of novel antimicrobial agents urgent. Bacteriocins are promising new agents that exhibit antibacterial activity against a wide range of human pathogens. In this study, we report that the bacteriocin produced by
Streptococcus ursoris
showed good antibacterial activity against a wide range of
Staphylococcus aureus
and enterococcus strains, particularly methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
, vancomycin-resistant enterococci, and high biofilm-forming
S. aureus
. Interestingly, this bacteriocin had a stronger effect on
S. aureus
than on
Staphylococcus epidermidis
, which is a major commensal bacterium in human skin; this result is important when considering the disturbance of bacterial flora, especially on the skin, mediated by the application of antibacterial agents.
AcMNPV P74 is cleaved at R325 and R334 by proteinases of both OB and BBMV to expose a potential fusion peptide for oral infection
Authors: Li Zhuorui , Zhang Nan , Zhang Tao , Wang Zhiying , Li Jiang , Wang Manli , Hu Zhihong , Wang Xi 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Baculoviruses enter insect midgut epithelial cells via a set of occlusion-derived virion (ODV) envelope proteins called
per os
infectivity factors (PIFs). P74 of Autographa californica multicapsid nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV), which was the first identified PIF, is cleaved by an endogenous proteinase embedded within the occlusion body during
per os
infection, but the target site(s) and function of the cleavage have not yet been ascertained. Here, based on bioinformatics analyses, we report that cleavage was predicted at an arginine and lysine-rich region in the middle of P74. A series of recombinant viruses with site-directed mutants in this region of P74 were generated. R325 or R334 was identified as primary cleavage site. In addition, we showed that P74 is also cleaved by brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) of the host insect at R325 or R334, instead of R195, R196, and R199, as previously reported. Simultaneous mutations in R195, R196, and R199 lead to instability of P74 during ODV release. Bioassays showed that mutations at both R325 and R334 significantly affected oral infectivity. Taken together, our data show that both R325 and R334 of AcMNPV P74 are the primary cleavage site for both occlusion body endogenous proteinase and BBMV proteinase during ODV release and are critical for oral infection.

IMPORTANCE

Cleavage of viral envelope proteins is usually an important trigger for viral entry into host cells. Baculoviruses are insect-specific viruses that infect host insects via the oral route. P74, a
per os
infectivity factor of baculoviruses, is cleaved during viral entry. However, the function and precise cleavage sites of P74 remain unknown. In this study, we found that R325 or R334 between the N- and C-conserved domains of P74 was the primary cleavage site by proteinase either from the occlusion body or host midgut. The biological significance of cleavage seems to be the release of the potential fusion peptide at the N-terminus of the cleaved C-terminal P74. Our results shed light on the cleavage model of P74 and imply its role in membrane fusion in baculovirus
per os
infection.
Consensus methods in patellofemoral pain: how rigorous are they? A scoping review
Authors: Blazey Paul , Scott Alex , Ardern Clare L , Davis Jennifer C , Whittaker Jackie L , Losciale Justin M , Khan Karim M 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveClinicians treating patients with patellofemoral pain (PFP) rely on consensus statements to make the best practice recommendations in the absence of definitive evidence on how to manage PFP. However, the methods used to generate and assess agreement for these recommendations have not been examined. Our objective was to map the methods used to generate consensus-based recommendations for PFP and apply four novel questions to assess the rigour of consensus development.DesignScoping review.Data sourcesWe searched Medline, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL and Embase from inception to May 2022 to identify consensus-derived statements or practice guidelines on PFP. The Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis was followed to map the existing evidence. We measured the consensus methods based on four sets of questions addressing the panel composition, application of the consensus method chosen, agreement process and the use of evidence mapping.Eligibility criteriaAll consensus statements or clinical guidelines on PFP were considered.ResultsTwenty-two PFP consensus statements were identified. Panel composition: 3 of the 22 (14%) consensus groups reported the panellists’ experience, 2 (9%) defined a desired level of expertise, 10 (45%) reported panellist sex and only 2 (9%) included a patient. Consensus method: 7 of 22 (32%) reported using an established method of consensus measurement/development. Agreement process: 10 of 22 (45%) reported their consensus threshold and 2 (9%) acknowledged dissenting opinions among the panel. Evidence mapping: 6 of 22 (27%) reported using systematic methods to identify relevant evidence gaps.ConclusionsPFP consensus panels have lacked diversity and excluded key partners including patients. Consensus statements on PFP frequently fail to use recognised consensus methods, rarely describe how ‘agreement’ was defined or measured and often neglect to use systematic methods to identify evidence gaps.
Prospective associations between breast feeding, metabolic health, inflammation and bone density in women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Hebeisen Ines , Gonzalez Rodriguez Elena , Arhab Amar , Gross Justine , Schenk Sybille , Gilbert Leah , Benhalima Katrien , Horsch Antje , Quansah Dan Yedu , Puder Jardena J 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionThe aim of the study is to investigate prospective associations between breastfeeding and metabolic outcomes, inflammation, and bone density in women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).Research design and methodsWe prospectively included 171 women with GDM from the MySweetheart trial. Women were followed during pregnancy (from 24 up to 32 weeks’ gestational age) up to 1 year postpartum. Outcomes included weight, weight retention, body composition, insulin resistance and secretion indices, C reactive protein (CRP), and bone density. We compared differences in the associations between breastfeeding and health outcomes between women who breast fed <6 months vs ≥6 months. Analyses were adjusted for potential medical and sociodemographic confounders.ResultsBreastfeeding initiation was 94.2% (n=161) and mean breastfeeding duration was 6.6 months. Breastfeeding duration was independently associated with lower weight, weight retention, body fat, visceral adipose tissue, lean mass, CRP, insulin resistance (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance), and insulin secretion (Homeostatic Model Assessment of β-cell index) at 1 year postpartum (all p≤0.04) after adjusting for confounders. Breastfeeding was associated with higher insulin resistance-adjusted insulin secretion (Insulin Secretion-Sensitivity Index-2) in the unadjusted analyses only. There was no association between breastfeeding duration and bone density. Compared with <6 months, breastfeeding duration ≥6 months was associated with lower weight, weight retention, body fat, fat-free mass as well as lower CRP at 1 year postpartum (all p<0.05) after adjusting for confounders.ConclusionsLonger breastfeeding duration among women with prior GDM was associated with lower insulin resistance, weight, weight retention, body fat and inflammation, but not lower bone density at 1 year postpartum. Breastfeeding for ≥6 months after GDM can help to improve cardiometabolic health outcomes 1 year after delivery.
Hypersexuality in neurological disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Tayim Natalie , Barbosa Pedro , Panicker Jalesh 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundHypersexuality (HS) accompanying neurological conditions remains poorly characterized despite profound psychosocial impacts.ObjectiveWe aimed to systematically review the literature on HS in patients with neurological disorders.Study selection and analysisWe conducted a systematic review to identify studies that reported HS in neurological disorders. HS was defined as a condition characterized by excessive and persistent preoccupation with sexual thoughts, urges, and behaviors that cause significant distress or impairment in personal, social, or occupational functioning. Data on demographics, assessment techniques, associated elements, phenotypic manifestations, and management strategies were also extracted.FindingsThe final analysis included 79 studies on HS, encompassing 32 662 patients across 81 cohorts with neurological disorders. Parkinson's disease was the most frequently studied condition (55.6%), followed by various types of dementia (12.7%). Questionnaires were the most common assessment approach for evaluating HS, although the techniques varied substantially. Alterations in the dopaminergic pathways have emerged as contributing mechanisms based on the effects of medication cessation. However, standardized treatment protocols still need to be improved, with significant heterogeneity in documented approaches. Critical deficiencies include risks of selection bias in participant sampling, uncontrolled residual confounding factors, and lack of blinded evaluations of reported outcomes.Conclusions and clinical implicationsDespite growth in the last decade, research on HS remains limited across neurological conditions, with lingering quality and methodological standardization deficits. Key priorities include advancing assessment tools, elucidating the underlying neurobiology, and formulating management guidelines.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42017036478.
Anterior Spinal Artery Syndrome After Bronchial Embolization for Hemoptysis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ghouri Raza Gulzar , Ali Muhammad Mohsin , Naeem Hamza , Raza Maryam Saleem , Arshad Waqas 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundBronchial artery embolization (BAE) is the established first-line treatment for patients presenting with massive haemoptysis, a life-threatening condition that can occur because of numerous underlying diseases. BAE is a relatively safe procedure with control of haemorrhage achieved in 77%–90% of cases and rare occurrence of complications. Spinal cord infarction is one such rare complication, which can have severe implications in terms of morbidity.Case presentationsWe present a case of a 70-year-old man who developed paraplegia with loss of pain and temperature sensation as well as sphincteric involvement following BAE for hemoptysis. MRI of the spine was suggestive of an ischaemic event involving anterolateral spinal cord segment T4–T6, so a diagnosis of anterior spinal artery syndrome post BAE was made. The patient was given corticosteroids, dual antiplatelet medications, pregabalin, supportive management and regular physiotherapy. Follow-up of the patient at 3 and 6 months failed to show any significant improvement in neurological function, although the patient did not report problem of significant hemoptysis afterward.ConclusionSpinal cord infarct is a rare and disabling complication of BAE despite it being a safe procedure with good long-term outcomes. Detailed knowledge about the anatomy of bronchial arteries and spinal arteries with detailed preprocedure investigations may lower the risk of this disabling complication.
Exploration of understanding of impactibility analysis and application through workshops to inform model design for population health management policy: a qualitative assessment
Authors: Orlowski Andi , Forshaw Rukiye , Humphreys Heather , Ashton Rachel , Cornelius Victoria , Pickles Jason , Snowden Simon , Bottle Alex 
Published: May 2024

ObjectivesAssess understanding of impactibility modelling definitions, benefits, challenges and approaches.DesignQualitative assessment.SettingTwo workshops were developed. Workshop 1 was to consider impactibility definitions and terminology through moderated open discussion, what the potential pros and cons might be, and what factors would be best to assess. In workshop 2, participants appraised five approaches to impactibility modelling identified in the literature.ParticipantsNational Health Service (NHS) analysts, policy-makers, academics and members of non-governmental think tank organisations identified through existing networks and via a general announcement on social media. Interested participants could enrol after signing informed consent.Outcome measuresDescriptive assessment of responses to gain understanding of the concept of impactibility (defining impactibility analysis), the benefits and challenges of using this type of modelling and most relevant approach to building an impactibility model for the NHS.Results37 people attended 1 or 2 workshops in small groups (maximum 10 participants): 21 attended both workshops, 6 only workshop 1 and 10 only workshop 2. Discussions in workshop 1 illustrated that impactibility modelling is not clearly understood, with it generally being viewed as a cross-sectional way to identify patients rather than considering patients by iterative follow-up. Recurrent factors arising from workshop 2 were the shortage of benchmarks; incomplete access to/recording of primary care data and social factors (which were seen as important to understanding amenability to treatment); the need for outcome/action suggestions as well as providing the data and the risk of increasing healthcare inequality.ConclusionsUnderstanding of impactibility modelling was poor among our workshop attendees, but it is an emerging concept for which few studies have been published. Implementation would require formal planning and training and should be performed by groups with expertise in the procurement and handling of the most relevant health-related real-world data.
Tranquilisers and sedatives misuse and associated factors among adolescents in Estonia: findings from cross-sectional ESPAD surveys, 2003–2019
Authors: Veskimäe Liina , Vorobjov Sigrid , Pärna Kersti 
Published: May 2024

ObjectivesThis study aimed to (1) to describe trends of tranquilliser and sedative (TS) misuse in Estonia during 2003–2019 and (2) to analyse the associations between TS misuse and explanatory factors (perceived access to TS, medical use of TS, family-related, friends-related, school-related factors, risk behaviour and leisure time physical activity).DesignA cross-sectional study.SettingData were collected from the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (ESPAD) from 2003 to 2019 in Estonia.ParticipantsEstonian schoolchildren aged 15–16 years old (n=11 328), 48.6% were boys.Outcome measuresPrevalence, crude and adjusted ORs with 95% CIs for TS misuse.ResultsThe prevalence of lifetime TS misuse significantly increased from 2003 (5.0% of boys and 12.6% of girls) to 2019 (11.3% and 17.5%, respectively) (p<0.001). Among boys, TS misuse increased significantly among those reporting medical use of TS from 21.1% to 41.4% in 2003–2019 (p=0.006). Medical use of TS multiplied the odds of misuse by 6.89 (95% CI 5.15 to 9.24) for boys and by 4.53 (95% CI 3.58 to 5.73) for girls. Perceived easy access to TS increased the odds of misuse by 6.57 (95% CI 4.13 to 10.46) times for boys and by 4.66 (95% CI 3.25 to 6.70) times for girls. Having many friends who misuse TS increased the odds of misuse by 3.27 (95% CI 2.16 to 4.95) times for boys and by 5.07 (95% CI 3.79 to 6.77) times for girls. Furthermore, higher odds of TS misuse were observed among adolescents who smoked cigarettes and engaged in less sports.ConclusionsTS misuse prevalence among Estonian adolescents increased significantly from 2003 to 2019. Misuse was strongly associated with medical use, perceived easy access and friends’ TS misuse. These findings emphasise the need for targeted prevention strategies, including improving prescription practices, limiting TS access and promoting healthy behaviours and positive peer relationships among adolescents.
Perceptions and self-management of a healthy diet among middle-aged adults with risk of stroke in North China: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Liu Cui , Chong Mei Chan , Lee Wan Ling , Zhang Hai Yan , Zhang Jin Hua 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveAlthough stroke is prevalent among older people, there is a rising incidence among the younger subpopulations, particularly middle-aged adults. A healthy diet is one of the key modifiable factors to primary prevention of stroke among these subpopulations, yet there is limited understanding of the dietary habits among middle agers who have the risk factor(s) but no occurrence of stroke. This study aims to explore the views on perceptions and the self-management of middle-aged adults at risk of stroke on a healthy diet and to identify the enablers and barriers that could inform the future development of dietary interventions.DesignThis study used an interpretive descriptive qualitative design, employing semistructured purposive sampling for focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was conducted on the transcribed interviews and field notes, facilitated by NVivo 12.0 Plus software.SettingCommunity settings in Zhengzhou City, Henan Province.ParticipantsMiddle-aged adults (aged 45–59) were identified as at risk of stroke due to the presence of one or more modifiable risk factors.ResultA total of seven focus group discussions were audio recorded. Four main themes emerged, which were: (1) cognitive understanding of a healthy diet; (2) dietary practices; (3) knowledge acquisition and (4) barriers to dietary adherence.ConclusionsThe middle-aged adults at risk of stroke were generally aware of the risk and attempted to practise healthy eating. The existing educational programmes on following a healthy diet in the prevention of disease need to be made more comprehensible, accessible and equitable, especially for those from socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.
Modular multimodal hospital-home chain physical activity rehabilitation programme (3M2H-PARP) in liver cancer: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Chen Haiyan , Lu Hanxiao , Zhou Huimin , Wu Bo , Dong Zhixia , Zhang Shuo , Gu Yuanlong , Zhou Guangwen , Xiang Jie , Yang Jun 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionPatients with liver cancer are susceptible to experiencing a decline in muscle mass and function, which can lead to physical frailty and have a negative impact on prognosis. However, there is currently a lack of physical activity interventions specifically tailored for these patients. Therefore, we have developed a modular multimodal hospital-home chain physical activity rehabilitation programme (3M2H-PARP) designed specifically for patients with liver cancer undergoing transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE). We aim to validate the effectiveness and feasibility of this programme through a randomised controlled trial (RCT).Methods and analysis3M2H-PARP RCT will compare a 12-week, modular, multimodal physical activity rehabilitation programme that includes supervised exercise in a hospital setting and self-management exercise at home. The programmes consist of aerobic, resistance, flexibility and balance exercise modules, and standard survivorship care in a cohort of liver cancer survivors who have undergone TACE. The control group will receive standard care. A total of 152 participants will be randomly assigned to either the 3M2H-PARP group or the control group. Assessments will be conducted at three time points: baseline, after completing the intervention and a 24-week follow-up visit. The following variables will be evaluated: liver frailty index, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Hepatobiliary subscale, Cancer Fatigue Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and physical activity level. After the completion of the training programme, semi-structured interviews will be conducted with participants from the 3M2H-PARP group to investigate the programme’s impact on their overall well-being. SPSS V.26.0 software will be used for statistical analyses.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval has been granted by the Jiangnan University School of Medicine Research Ethics Committee. The findings will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal.Trial registration numberChiCTR2300076800.