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We present two cases of cardiac metastases adjacent to the right ventricle in a 55-year-old male and a 61-year-old female, both treated with magnetic resonance (MR)-guided adaptive stereotactic radiation therapy (SBRT). The prescribed regimen was 30Gy delivered in 3 fractions using a 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance linear accelerator (MR-linac). Patients exhibited favorable tolerance to the treatment, with no observed acute toxicity.

Abstract Background Obesity adversely impacts outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA), leading surgeons to impose body mass index cutoffs for patient eligibility and encourage preoperative weight loss. This study aimed to determine if preoperative weight loss impacts outcomes of THA in the general patient population and if it mitigates poor outcomes in obese patients. Methods Patients who underwent THA from 2013–2020 were identified in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database. Patients were stratified by weight loss of >10% of body weight over the preceding 6 months. We used multivariable linear and logistic regression models, adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and comorbidities, to examine the effect of significant preoperative weight loss on 30-day outcomes after THA in the general and obese patient populations. Results In the overall population, patients who lost significant weight preoperatively had significantly increased length of stay, were more likely to have a non-home discharge, return to the operating room, or be readmitted, and were more likely to experience numerous medical complications. In the obese population, patients who lost significant weight preoperatively had significantly increased length of stay and were more likely to require a transfusion or experience any medical complication. Discussion Rapid significant preoperative weight loss is not associated with improved postoperative outcomes after THA in the obese population and is associated with worse outcomes in the general population. Arthroplasty surgeons should balance these risks with the risks of obesity when advising patients about preoperative weight loss prior to THA. Level of evidence III.

Abstract Background Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines emerged as a powerful tool in the fight against infections. Unlike traditional vaccines, this unique type of vaccine elicits robust and persistent innate and humoral immune response with a unique host cell‐mediated pathogen gene expression and antigen presentation. Methods This offers a novel approach to combat poxviridae infections. From the genome of vaccinia and Mpox viruses, three key genes (E8L, E7R, and H3L) responsible for virus attachment and virulence were selected and employed for designing the candidate mRNA vaccine against vaccinia and Mpox viral infection. Various bioinformatics tools were employed to generate (B cell, CTL, and HTL) epitopes, of which 28 antigenic and immunogenic epitopes were selected and are linked to form the mRNA vaccine construct. Additional components, including a 5′ cap, 5′ UTR, adjuvant, 3′ UTR, and poly(A) tail, were incorporated to enhance stability and effectiveness. Safety measures such as testing for human homology and in silico immune simulations were implemented to avoid autoimmunity and to mimics the immune response of human host to the designed mRNA vaccine, respectively. The mRNA vaccine's binding affinity was evaluated by docking it with TLR‐2, TLR‐3, TLR‐4, and TLR‐9 receptors which are subsequently followed by molecular dynamics simulations for the highest binding one to predict the stability of the binding complex. Results With a 73% population coverage, the mRNA vaccine looks promising, boasting a molecular weight of 198 kDa and a molecular formula of C8901H13609N2431O2611S48 and it is said to be antigenic, nontoxic and nonallergic, making it safe and effective in preventing infections with Mpox and vaccinia viruses, in comparison with other insilico‐designed vaccine for vaccinia and Mpox viruses. Conclusions However, further validation through in vivo and in vitro techniques is underway to fully assess its potential.

This study focuses on alternatives to the sustainable management of plastic wastes through the development of a pyrolyser model, adapted to the recycling of plastics into fuel. It is a batch reactor, fixed bed, designed and built for the extraction of pyrolysis oil that can be recycled into petrol or diesel. The pyrolyser consists of a reactor with a volume of 0.0424 m3 and a copper spiral condenser with 2.31 m length. The plastics used for this study were Low Density PolyEthylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). They were collected from surrounding companies, washed, sampled, cut and sieved. Two different sizes of pyrolysis material: 1–3 cm (G1) and 3–7 cm (G2) were obtained and tested. The pyrolysis reactor and the plastics entering at an ambient temperature of 25 °C were heated. Plastics were then melted at 110 °C and vaporised at 450 °C. The hot vapour produced circulated through a copper coil and condensed. The resulting liquid was called pyrolysis oil. The results of this study show that the pyrolysis of LDPE, PP and PS yields two liquids: the heavy and majority fraction which arelike the conventional diesel and the light fraction which is like gasoline. Yields of 6–12.4% for the light fraction and 43.2–63.8% corresponding to the heavy fraction are observed. PE has the highest yield, 63.8% for the heavy fraction and 12.4% for the light fraction. The study further underscores that the size of the pyrolysis material influences the yields, i.e. an increase of 12.5, 9.1 and 7 % for LDPE, PS and PP respectively when the size of the pyrolysis material is increased from G2 to G1. In contrast, the results of PET have shown a liquid that solidifies 46 s later. It was also noticed that 2061.34 kJ of energy was required to pyrolyse 1 kg of plastic and produce 0.762 l of fuel. The simple physico-chemical characterisation of the majority fraction shows a great similarity with diesel fuel, as the distillation went beyond 200 °C. Therefore, we can say that the diesel fraction is similar to diesel fuel. We equally observed a high cetane number (52.1–55.1) and a high calorific value (42.9–55.5 MJ/kg). Consequently, there are some points of non-conformity with the European 590 standard and Cameroonian specifications for diesel fuel. These include a low density (767.8–815.1 kg/m3) and a low viscosity at 40 °C (1.108–1.346 mm2/S). A thorough physico-chemical analysis will complete this study before any recommendation for appropriate use.

Understanding pollen and ovule fertility as factors influencing fruit and seed set is important in cassava breeding. Extended daylength with red light (RL) and plant growth regulators (PGRs) have been used to induce flowering and fruit set in cassava without any reference to effects on pollen viability or ovule fertilizability. This study investigated the effects of field-applied RL and PGR on pollen viability and ovule fertilizability. Panels of cassava genotypes with early or moderate flowering responses were used. RL was administered from dusk to dawn. Two PGRs, 6-benzyl adenine (BA), a cytokinin and silver thiosulphate (STS), an anti-ethylene, were applied. Pollen viability was assessed based on pollen grain diameter, in vitro stainability, in vivo germinability, ovule fertilizability, and ploidy level. Treating flowers with RL increased the pollen diameter from 145.6 in control to 148.5 µm in RL, 78.5 to 93.0% in stainability, and 52.0 to 56.9% in ovule fertilizability in treated female flowers. The fruit set also increased from 51.5 in control to 71.8% in RL-treated female flowers. The seed set followed a similar trend. The ploidy level of pollen from RL-treated flowers increased slightly and was positively correlated with pollen diameter (R2 = 0.09 *), ovule fertilization (R2 = 0.20 *), fruit set (R2 = 0.59 *), and seed set (R2 = 0.60 *). Treating flowers with PGR did not affect pollen diameter but increased stainability from 78.5% in control to 82.1%, ovule fertilizability from 42.9 to 64.9%, and fruit set from 23.2 to 51.9% in PGR-treated female flowers. Combined BA + STS application caused the highest ovule fertilizability, fruit, and seed set efficiency. These results show that RL and PGR treatments increase pollen viability and ovule fertilizability. This is important for planning pollination strategies in cassava breeding programmes.

Abstract Introduction Early postoperative pain following total knee arthroplasty significantly impacts outcomes and patient satisfaction. However, the characteristics and sources of early pain after total knee arthroplasty remain unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the anatomic distribution and course of postoperative pain in the acute and subacute period following total knee arthroplasty. Methods A prospective observational study of primary, elective unilateral total knee arthroplasty cases was conducted at our academic tertiary care medical center from January 2021 to September 2021. Preoperative variables were extracted from institutional electronic medical records. Postoperatively, patients utilized a knee pain map to identify the two locations with the most significant pain and rated it using the visual analog scale (VAS). The data were collected on day 0, at 2 weeks, 2 months, and 6 months after operation. Results This study included 112 patients, with 6% of patients having no pain at postoperative day 0, 22% at 2 weeks, 46% at 2 months, and 86% at 6 months after operation. In those who reported pain, the VAS score (mean ± standard deviation) was 5.8 ± 2.4 on postoperative day 0 and decreased at each follow-up time point (5.4 ± 2.3 at 2 weeks, 3.9 ± 2.2 at 2 months, and 3.8 ± 2.7 at 6 months). The majority of patients were able to identify distinct loci of pain. The most common early pain loci were patellae, thigh, and medial joint line, and this distribution dissipated by 6 months. Conclusion At 2 postoperative weeks, pain was primarily at the medial joint, and at 6 months postoperatively, pain was more likely to be at the lateral joint. No relationship was found between pain at six months and pain scores or location at postoperative day 0 or 2 weeks. Understanding the distribution and progression of knee pain following total knee arthroplasty may benefit patient education and targeted interventions. Level of Evidence Level II, prospective observational study

Abstract Background Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is staple food and major source of calories for over 500 million people in sub-Saharan Africa. The crop is also a source of income for smallholder farmers, and has increasing potential for industrial utilization. However, breeding efforts to match the increasing demand of cassava are impeded by its inability to flower, delayed or unsynchronized flowering, low proportion of female flowers and high fruit abortions. To overcome these sexual reproductive bottlenecks, this study investigated the effectiveness of using red lights to extend the photoperiod (RLE), as a gateway to enhancing flowering and fruit set under field conditions. Materials and methods Panels of cassava genotypes, with non- or late and early flowering response, 10 in each case, were subjected to RLE from dusk to dawn. RLE was further evaluated at low (LL), medium (ML) and high (HL) red light intensities, at ~ ≤ 0.5; 1.0 and 1.5PFD (Photon Flux Density) in µmol m−2 s−1 respectively. Additionally, the effect of a cytokinin and anti-ethylene as plant growth regulators (PGR) and pruning under RLE treatment were examined. Results RLE stimulated earlier flower initiation in all genotypes, by up to 2 months in the late-flowering genotypes. Height and number of nodes at first branching, particularly in the late-flowering genotypes were also reduced, by over 50%. Number and proportion of pistillate flowers more than doubled, while number of fruits and seeds also increased. Number of branching levels during the crop season also increased by about three. Earlier flowering in many genotypes was most elicited at LL to ML intensities. Additive effects on flower numbers were detected between RLE, PGR and pruning applications. PGR and pruning treatments further increased number and proportion of pistillate flowers and fruits. Plants subjected to PGR and pruning, developed bisexual flowers and exhibited feminization of staminate flowers. Pruning at first branching resulted in higher pistillate flower induction than at second branching. Conclusions These results indicate that RLE improves flowering in cassava, and its effectiveness is enhanced when PGR and pruning are applied. Thus, deployment of these technologies in breeding programs could significantly enhance cassava hybridizations and thus cassava breeding efficiency and impact.

Abstract Background Approximately 23% of patients develop hip pain after total hip arthroplasty (THA). In this systematic review, we aimed to identify risk factors associated with postoperative pain after THA to optimize preoperative surgical planning. Methods Six literature databases were searched for articles published from January 1995 to August 2020. Controlled trials and observational studies that reported measurements of postoperative pain with assessments of preoperative modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors were included. Three researchers performed a literature review independently. Results Fifty-four studies were included in the study for analysis. The most consistent association between worse pain outcomes and the female sex is poor preoperative pain or function, and more severe medical or psychiatric comorbidities. The correlation was less strong between worse pain outcomes and preoperative high body mass index value, low radiographic grade arthritis, and low socioeconomic status. A weak correlation was found between age and worse pain outcomes. Conclusions Preoperative risk factors that were consistently predictive of greater/server postoperative pain after THA were identified, despite the varying quality of studies that prohibited the arrival of concrete conclusions. Modifiable factors should be optimized preoperatively, whereas non-modifiable factors may be valuable to patient education, shared decision-making, and individualized pain management.

Breeding for low-hydrogen-cyanide (HCN) varieties is a major objective of programs targeting boiled cassava food products. To enhance the breeding of low-HCN varieties, knowledge of genetic variation and trait heritability is essential. In this study, 64 cassava clones were established across four locations and evaluated for HCN using three HCN assessment methods: one with a 1 to 9 scale, on with a 0 ppm to 800 ppm scale, and a quantitative assay based on spectrophotometer readings (HCN_Spec). Data were also collected on the weather variables precipitation, relative humidity, and temperature. Highly significant differences were observed among clones (p < 0.001) and locations (p < 0.001). There was also significant clone–environment interactions, varying from p < 0.05 to p < 0.001. Locations Arua and Serere showed higher HCN scores among clones and were associated with significantly higher (p < 0.001) mean daily temperatures (K) and lower relative humidity values (%) across 12 h and 18 h intervals. Within locations, HCN broad sense heritability estimates ranged from 0.22 to 0.64, while combined location heritability estimates ranged from 0.14 to 0.32. Relationships between the methods were positive and strong (r = 0.75–0.92). The 1 to 9 scale is more accurate and more reproducible than either the 0 to 800 ppm scale or spectrophotometric methods. It is expected that the information herein will accelerate efforts towards breeding for low-HCN cassava varieties.

Flowering in cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is crucial for the generation of botanical seed for breeding. However, genotypes preferred by most farmers are erect and poor at flowering or never flower. To elucidate the genetic basis of flowering, 293 diverse cassava accessions were evaluated for flowering-associated traits at two locations and seasons in Uganda. Genotyping using the Diversity Array Technology Pty Ltd. (DArTseq) platform identified 24,040 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) distributed on the 18 cassava chromosomes. Population structure analysis using principal components (PCs) and kinships showed three clusters; the first five PCs accounted for 49.2% of the observed genetic variation. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) estimation averaged 0.32 at a distance of ~2850 kb (kilo base pairs). Polymorphism information content (PIC) and minor allele frequency (MAF) were 0.25 and 0.23, respectively. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis uncovered 53 significant marker–trait associations (MTAs) with flowering-associated traits involving 27 loci. Two loci, SNPs S5_29309724 and S15_11747301, were associated with all the traits. Using five of the 27 SNPs with a Phenotype_Variance_Explained (PVE) ≥ 5%, 44 candidate genes were identified in the peak SNP sites located within 50 kb upstream or downstream, with most associated with branching traits. Eight of the genes, orthologous to Arabidopsis and other plant species, had known functional annotations related to flowering, e.g., eukaryotic translation initiation factor and myb family transcription factor. This study identified genomic regions associated with flowering-associated traits in cassava, and the identified SNPs can be useful in marker-assisted selection to overcome hybridization challenges, like unsynchronized flowering, and candidate gene validation.

Abstract Background and Aims Despite the implementation of anemia control interventions in Ghana, anemia prevalence is still high in children under‐fives. Reducing the prevalence of anemia requires identifying and targeting associated critical risk factors. This study seeks to identify predictors of anemia among children under‐fives in Ghana. Methods Nationally representative data from the 2019 Ghana Malaria Indicator Survey was used in this study. Both fixed and random effects (multilevel) logistic regression models were applied to 2434 children to identify critical factors associated with anemia. Results In this study, 54% (95% confidence interval [CI] 52.0–57.0) of children under‐5 years were anemic. Infants were more likely to be anemic (66.7%) compared with other children below 5 years. In the multivariable multilevel model, the risk of anemia was found to be higher in younger children especially 6–11 months old (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.59, CI: 2.54–5.08) and 12–23 months old (aOR = 2.97, CI: 2.08–4.23), children who had malaria (aOR = 1.53, CI: 1.13–2.06), children whose mothers were not registered but not covered with health insurance (aOR = 1.45, CI: 1.21–1.74) or were not even registered for insurance (aOR = 1.49, CI: 1.15–1.93), children born to adolescent mothers (aOR = 2.21, CI: 1.36–3.57), children born to non‐Christian mothers (Islam [aOR = 1.53, CI: 1.17–2.00]), children born to families of poorer households (poorest [aOR = 3.01, CI: 1.64–5.51]; poorer [aOR = 2.56, CI: 1.65–3.98]); middle (aOR = 2.03, CI: 1.32–3.11) and richer (aOR = 1.78, CI: 1.19–2.64), and children who lived in either Upper East (aOR = 2.03, CI: 1.26–3.26) or Central (aOR = 2.52, CI: 1.42–4.47) regions. Significant unobserved community‐level differences in anemia prevalence were observed. Conclusion The probability of anemia in children under‐fives differs substantially from one community to another, and the prevalence remains high. The identified critical risk factors should be addressed. Multifaceted and targeted approaches are needed to help reduce the anemia prevalence in this setting to achieve the multiple United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals, which are related to risk and prevalence of anemia by 2030.

Bioflavonoids are natural polyphenolic secondary metabolites that are medicinal. These compounds possess antitumor, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-psoriasis properties to mention a few. Plant species that contain bioflavonoids should be preserved as such. Also, the bioactivity of the bioflavonoids as neutraceutical compounds is compromised following extraction due to their sensitivity to environmental factors like light, pH, and temperature. In other words, the bioflavonoids’ shelf-life is affected. Scientists noticed that bioflavonoids have low solubility properties, poor absorption, and low bioavailability following consumption. Researchers came up with methods to encapsulate bioflavonoids in order to circumvent the challenges above and also to mask the unpleasant order these chemicals may have. Besides, scientists cryopreserve plant species that contain bioflavonoids. In this review, we discuss cryopreservation and bioflavonoid microencapsulation focusing mainly on vitrification, slow freezing, and freeze-drying microencapsulation techniques. In addition, we highlight bioflavonoid extraction techniques, medicinal properties, challenges, and future perspectives of cryopreservation and microencapsulation of bioflavonoids. Regardless of the uniqueness of cryopreservation and microencapsulation as methods to preserve bioflavonoid sources and bioflavonoids’ bioactivity, there are challenges reported. Freeze-drying technology is costly. Cryoprotectants damage the integrity of plant cells, to say the least. Researchers are working very hard to overcome these challenges. Encapsulating bioflavonoids via coaxial electrospray and then cryopreserving the micro/nanocapsules produced can be very interesting.

Background: The outcomes of total joint arthroplasty during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic are unknown. We sought to compare early postoperative complications in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who had THA or TKA in the latter halves (July to December) of 2019 and 2020 were identified. Patients were divided into pre-COVID-19 (2019) and during-COVID-19 (2020) cohorts. Propensity score matching and logistic regression were used to detect correlations between operative period and outcomes. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05. Results: A total of 38,234 THA and 61,956 TKA patients were included. There was a significantly higher rate of outpatient procedures in 2020 than that in 2019 for both THA (41.68% vs 6.59%, P < .001) and TKA (41.68% vs 7.56%, P < .001). On matched analysis, surgery in 2020 had lower odds of hospital stay for >1 day (THA: odds ratio [OR] 0.889; P < .001) (TKA: OR 0.644; P < .001) and nonhome discharge (THA: 0.655; P < .001) (TKA: 0.497; P < .001). There was also increased odds of superficial surgical site infection in THA (OR 1.272; P = .040) and myocardial infarction in TKA patients (OR 1.488; P = .042) in 2020 compared to those in 2019. There was no difference in the 15 other outcomes assessed. Conclusions: Total joint arthroplasty surgery remains safe despite the COVID-19 pandemic. A statistically significant increase was detected in superficial surgical site infection and myocardial infarction risk during 2020 compared to 2019; however, the clinical significance of this is questionable. A shift away from inpatient stay was also present, possibly reflecting efforts to minimize nosocomial exposure to COVID-19.

Abstract Teacher-student interactions are crucial in understanding the role of a supportive climate in instructional practices. The present study investigates the perceptions of 15-year-old Nordic students regarding four aspects of their science class: teacher support, fairness, feedback, and class discipline. Multilevel modelling analysis is used to examine the extent to which a perceived supportive climate can explain variation in the Nordic students’ science achievements. Overall, the main findings based on The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2015 data from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden indicate that at the student level, perceived feedback from teachers and students perceiving their teachers as fair explains significant variations in science achievement. The study provides practical and theoretical implications about the importance of strong teacher-student relationships in comprehending the concept of a supportive climate.

Introduction:. Orthopaedic surgery is well recognized as one of the most competitive and least diverse medical specialties. Despite efforts toward improving diversity, studies have shown that gender and racial/ethnic disparities continue to persist in orthopaedic graduate medical education. Therefore, we sought to identify the match rates of traditionally under-represented groups within orthopaedic surgery—female candidates, racial and ethnic minorities under-represented in medicine (URiM), and osteopathic physicians—compared with their application rates. Methods:. A retrospective review of the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) application data from the 2017 to 2021 application cycles was performed, and the total number of applicants, sex, race/ethnicity, and degree type of all students applying for orthopaedic surgery were recorded. A separate database, the Orthopaedic Residency Information Network (ORIN), which is a database self-reported by residency programs to provide information to applicants, was also queried to identify the total number of residents, sex, race/ethnicity, and degree type of all current residents in June 2022, corresponding to those residents who matched in 2017 to 2021. Results:. From the ERAS application data, a total of 7,903 applicants applied to orthopaedic surgery during the study period. A total of 1,448 applicants (18%) were female, 1,307 (18%) were URiM, and 1,022 (15%) were from an osteopathic medical school. Based on the ORIN database, 688 of 3,574 residents (19%) were female, 1,131 of 7,374 (19%) were URiM, and 1,022 of US medical school graduates (12%) had a DO degree. The application and match rates were not significantly different for female (p = 0.249) and URiM (0.187) applicants; however, there was a significant difference in the application and match rates (15% vs 12%; p = 0.035) for US medical graduates with a DO degree. Conclusion:. In recent years, there has been a significant and necessary push to increase diversity in the field of orthopaedic surgery. From 2017 to 2021, match rates of female and URiM candidates are reflective of their application rates. Osteopathic applicants in orthopaedic surgery have a lower match rate than their allopathic counterparts. Level of Evidence:. III

Background:. Greater faculty diversity within orthopaedic residency programs has been associated with an increased application rate from students of similarly diverse demographic backgrounds. It is unknown whether these underrepresented student populations have an equitable likelihood of being highly ranked and matching at these programs. Thus, we sought to evaluate the relationship between faculty and resident diversity, with a specific focus on sex, racial/ethnic groups that are underrepresented in medicine (URiM), and international medical graduates (IMGs). Methods:. The American Orthopaedic Association's Orthopaedic Residency Information Network database was used to collect demographic data on 172 US residency programs. Linear regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship between the proportion of female or URiM attendings at a program and the proportion of female, URiM, or IMG residents or top-ranked applicants (≥25 rank). URiM was defined as “racial and ethnic populations that are underrepresented in the medical profession relative to their numbers in the general population.” Results:. A mean of 13.55% of attendings were female and 14.14% were URiM. A larger fraction of female attendings was a positive predictor of female residents (p < 0.001). Similarly, a larger percentage of URiM attendings was a positive predictor of URiM residents (p < 0.001), as well as of URiM (p < 0.001) and IMG (p < 0.01) students being ranked highly. There was no significant association between URiM attendings and female residents/overall top-ranked applicants, or vice versa. Conclusions:. Residency programs with more female attendings were more likely to match female residents, and programs with more URiM attendings were more likely to highly rank URiM and IMG applicants as well as match URiM residents. Our findings indicate that orthopaedic surgery residencies may be more likely to rank and match female or URiM students at similar proportions to that of their faculty. This may reflect minority students preferentially applying to programs with more diverse faculty because they feel a better sense of fit and are likely to benefit from a stronger support system. Level of Evidence:. III.

Osteosarcoma is the malignant tumor with the highest incidence rate among primary bone tumors and with a high mortality rate. The anti-osteosarcoma materials are the cross field between material science and medicine, having a wide range of application prospects. Among them, biological materials, such as compounds from black phosphorous, magnesium, zinc, copper, silver, etc., becoming highly valued in the biological materials field as well as in orthopedics due to their good biocompatibility, similar mechanical properties with biological bones, good biodegradation effect, and active antibacterial and anti-tumor effects. This article gives a comprehensive review of the research progress of anti-osteosarcoma biomaterials.

Diarrhea is a prevalent gastrointestinal problem associated with fatal implications. It is a huge public health concern that requires better alternatives to current drugs. This study investigated the mechanisms involved in the antidiarrheal activity of Anacardium occidentale (Ao) stem bark extract, a plant commonly used in the management of diarrhea in Nigeria. Methanolic stem bark extract of the plant was partitioned into three fractions: hexane fraction, ethyl acetate fraction (AoEF) and methanol fraction. In vitro studies on the effect of these fractions on guinea pig ileum (GPI) strips, as well as the modulatory effect of AoEF on standard agonists- and antagonists-induced GPI contraction and relaxation, revealed AoEF as the most active fraction. In vivo studies to assess the effect of AoEF on the dopaminergic, muscarinic, and serotonergic pathways were carried out using gastric emptying (GE) and gastrointestinal transit (GT) as experimental end points. AoEF was subjected to GC-MS analysis, while the identified compounds were docked with the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3 (CHRM3) using AutodockVina. Results indicated that AoEF inhibited GE and GT via inhibition of CHRM3. In addition, GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 24 compounds in AoEF, while docking indicated that octadecanoic acid 2-(2-hydroxylethoxy) ethyl ester exhibited the highest binding affinity to CHRM3. This study indicated that the antidiarrheal activity of Ao is through its antimotility effect via the inhibition of the muscarinic pathway. And since none of the identified compounds exhibited higher binding affinity to CHRM3 relative to loperamide, the antimotility activity of these phytoconstituents may be via synergism.

BackgroundSurgical volunteer organizations have been severely limited during the ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic. Our purpose was to identify obstacles to surgical volunteer organizations secondary to COVID-19 and their responses.MethodsForty-one surgical volunteer organizations participated in a web-based survey (156 invited, 26% response rate). Respondents were separated into two groups: low donations surgical volunteer organizations (≤50% donations of previous year; n = 17) and high donations surgical volunteer organizations (≥75%; n = 24). Univariate analyses were used to compare the two cohorts.ResultsOf responding surgical volunteer organizations, 34 (83%) were unable to maintain full functionality due to COVID-19; 27% of high donations vs. 0% of low donations surgical volunteer organizations (p = 0.02). The three leading obstacles were finances/donations (78%), fewer volunteers (38%), and inadequate personal protective equipment (30%). In response, 39% of surgical volunteer organizations developed novel E-volunteering opportunities. For support, 85% of surgical volunteer organizations suggested monetary donations, 78% promotion through social media platforms, and 54% donation of personal protective equipment.ConclusionThe majority of surgical volunteer organizations were unable to maintain full functionality due to stressors caused by COVID-19, including limitations on finances, volunteers, and personal protective equipment.

Urban green spaces are known to generate environmental, social and health benefits that accrue to urban residents mainly through direct and indirect use. However, information on how such green spaces are used, reasons behind their use and individual factors influencing such use is not readily available especially in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study sought to fill this gap by examining green spaces’ characteristics, visitation patterns and reasons for their visitation in Kisumu City and Eldoret Municipality of Kenya. The study further examined the association between visitors’ socio-economic attributes and frequency of green space use. Data collected from seven public green spaces purposively selected was used. An observation checklist was employed to assess the characteristics of sampled green spaces while a questionnaire survey was used to obtain information on reasons for green space visitation and users’ socio-economic attributes. Data was analyzed descriptively to elicit green spaces’ characteristics, visitation patterns and visitors’ socio-economic attributes. Adjusted logistic regression model was employed to determine the association between visitors’ socio-economic attributes and visitation frequency. Findings reveal lack of uniformity in characteristics exhibited across green spaces. Green spaces that exhibited most attributes were also highly visited and the main reason for visitation was relaxation and ‘waiting for someone’. Being male, having been divorced, separated or widowed and having secondary or tertiary education were found to be significant socio-economic predictors of green space use. The paper recommends the need to increase density of green spaces in urban areas as well as provision of requisite facilities and amenities to enhance access and utility of green spaces for different needs by majority of urban residents.

The recent outlook of leishmaniasis as a global public health concern coupled with the reportage of resistance and lack of efficacy of most antileishmanial drugs calls for a concerted effort to find new leads. The study combined In silico and in vitro approaches to identify novel potential synthetic small-molecule inhibitors targeting the Leishmania donovani sterol methyltransferase (LdSMT). The LdSMT enzyme in the ergosterol biosynthetic pathway is required for the parasite’s membrane fluidity, distribution of membrane proteins, and control of the cell cycle. The lack of LdSMT homologue in the human host and its conserved nature among all Leishmania parasites makes it a viable target for future antileishmanial drugs. Initially, six known inhibitors of LdSMT with IC50 < 10 μM were used to generate a pharmacophore model with a score of 0.9144 using LigandScout. The validated model was used to screen a synthetic library of 95,630 compounds obtained from InterBioScreen limited. Twenty compounds with pharmacophore fit scores above 50 were docked against the modelled three-dimensional structure of LdSMT using AutoDock Vina. Consequently, nine compounds with binding energies ranging from −7.5 to −8.7 kcal/mol were identified as potential hit molecules. Three compounds comprising STOCK6S-06707, STOCK6S-84928, and STOCK6S-65920 with respective binding energies of −8.7, −8.2, and −8.0 kcal/mol, lower than 22,26-azasterol (−7.6 kcal/mol), a known LdSMT inhibitor, were selected as plausible lead molecules. Molecular dynamics simulation studies and molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area calculations showed that the residues Asp25 and Trp208 were critical for ligand binding. The compounds were also predicted to have antileishmanial activity with reasonable pharmacological and toxicity profiles. When the antileishmanial activity of the three hits was evaluated in vitro against the promastigotes of L. donovani, mean half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of 21.9 ± 1.5 μM (STOCK6S-06707), 23.5 ± 1.1 μM (STOCK6S-84928), and 118.3 ± 5.8 μM (STOCK6S-65920) were obtained. Furthermore, STOCK6S-84928 and STOCK6S-65920 inhibited the growth of Trypanosoma brucei, with IC50 of 14.3 ± 2.0 μM and 18.1 ± 1.4 μM, respectively. The identified compounds could be optimised to develop potent antileishmanial therapeutic agents.

The following information was missing in the original manuscript [...]

This article is devoted to applying bioinformatics and immunoinformatics approaches for the development of a multi-epitope mRNA vaccine against the spike glycoproteins of circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants in selected African countries. The study’s relevance is dictated by the fact that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) began its global threat at the end of 2019 and since then has had a devastating impact on the whole world. Measures to reduce threats from the pandemic include social restrictions, restrictions on international travel, and vaccine development. In most cases, vaccine development depends on the spike glycoprotein, which serves as a medium for its entry into host cells. Although several variants of SARS-CoV-2 have emerged from mutations crossing continental boundaries, about 6000 delta variants have been reported along the coast of more than 20 countries in Africa, with South Africa accounting for the highest percentage. This also applies to the omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in South Africa. The authors suggest that bioinformatics and immunoinformatics approaches be used to develop a multi-epitope mRNA vaccine against the spike glycoproteins of circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants in selected African countries. Various immunoinformatics tools have been used to predict T- and B-lymphocyte epitopes. The epitopes were further subjected to multiple evaluations to select epitopes that could elicit a sustained immunological response. The candidate vaccine consisted of seven epitopes, a highly immunogenic adjuvant, an MHC I-targeting domain (MITD), a signal peptide, and linkers. The molecular weight (MW) was predicted to be 223.1 kDa, well above the acceptable threshold of 110 kDa on an excellent vaccine candidate. In addition, the results showed that the candidate vaccine was antigenic, non-allergenic, non-toxic, thermostable, and hydrophilic. The vaccine candidate has good population coverage, with the highest range in East Africa (80.44%) followed by South Africa (77.23%). West Africa and North Africa have 76.65% and 76.13%, respectively, while Central Africa (75.64%) has minimal coverage. Among seven epitopes, no mutations were observed in 100 randomly selected SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoproteins in the study area. Evaluation of the secondary structure of the vaccine constructs revealed a stabilized structure showing 36.44% alpha-helices, 20.45% drawn filaments, and 33.38% random helices. Molecular docking of the TLR4 vaccine showed that the simulated vaccine has a high binding affinity for TLR-4, reflecting its ability to stimulate the innate and adaptive immune response.

Pollution of the environment by heavy metals emanating from rapid economic growth and improper waste and effluent disposal is a major concern. In this study, heavy metal concentrations (Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn and Cr) in vegetables, soil and water in two urban streams in Machakos municipality were analyzed. Physicochemical parameters; pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS) and electrical conductivity (EC) were also measured on-site. One-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test for the significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) of heavy metal concentrations in the vegetables, soil, and water across the different sampling sites. The relationship between the heavy metals in the soil, water and vegetables was investigated using Pearson correlation. Temperature (21.58 – 23.05 °C), pH (7.5 – 8.45) and TDS (577.5 – 865.83 mg/L) mean values were found to be within WHO acceptable limits for surface water while EC (864 – 1778.5 µS/cm) exceeded the set limits. Results showed that the mean concentrations (mg/kg) of Cd (BDL – 0.0011), Cu (0.0034 – 0.0055), Pb (0.0012 – 0.007), Zn (0.0232 - 0.1351), and Cr (0.0036 - 0.0292) in water and Cd (0.0058 - 0.0534), Cu (10.39 – 27.5), Pb (4.23 - 8.35), Zn (20.1 – 28.8) and Cr (8.17 – 10.03) in soil were within WHO permissible limits. Mean concentration values of (Zn (9.05 – 11.8), Pb (0.28 – 0.636), Cr (BDL – 1.002)) in spinach exceeded WHO permissible limits while Cd (BDL – 0.1285) and Cu (3.07 – 14.5) were within recommended levels. Cd (0.004 – 0.243), Cu (0.909 – 3.60) and Pb (BDL – 0.458) concentration levels in kale were within WHO safe limits for human consumption while Zn (12.06 – 18.8) and Cr (BDL – 1.62) exceeded WHO set limits. Presence of heavy metals (Zn, Pb, Cr) in the vegetables signifies a health risk hazard from consumption of these vegetables. Continuous monitoring of heavy metals in stream water, soil and vegetables is critical towards safeguarding public health.

BackgroundThe World Health Organization recommends that schistosomiasis be treated through Mass Drug Administration (MDA). In line with this recommendation, Zimbabwe commenced a national helminth control program in 2012 targeting schoolchildren throughout the country for 6 years. This study, part of a larger investigation of the impact of helminth treatment on the overall health of the children, determined the effect of annual praziquantel treatment on schistosome infection and morbidity in a cohort of children during Zimbabwe's 6-year national helminth control program.Methodology/principal findingsA school-based longitudinal study was carried out in 35 sentinel sites across Zimbabwe from September 2012 to November 2017. The sentinel sites were selected following a countrywide survey conducted in 280 primary schools. Schistosoma haematobium was diagnosed using the urine filtration technique. Schistosoma mansoni was diagnosed using both the Kato-Katz and formol-ether concentration techniques. S. haematobium morbidity was determined through detection of macro and microhaematuria. A cohort of children aged 6-15 years old was surveyed annually before MDA and 6 weeks post treatment. Maximum treatment coverage reached 90% over the 6 rounds of MDA. At baseline S. haematobium infection prevalence and intensity were 31.7% (95% CI = 31.1-32.2) and 28.75 eggs/10ml urine (SEM = 0.81) respectively, while S. mansoni prevalence and intensity were 4.6% (95% CI = 4.4-4.8) and 0.28 eggs/25mg (SEM = 0.02). Prior to the 6th round of MDA, S. haematobium infection prevalence had reduced to 1.56% (pConclusionZimbabwe's helminth control program significantly reduced schistosome infection intensity and prevalence and urogenital schistosomiasis morbidity prevalence in a cohort of school-aged children, moving the schistosome prevalence in the children from moderate to low by WHO classification. These findings will inform the design of the country's next stage interventions for helminth control and eventual elimination.

The study focuses on the sedimentation and stratigraphy of a large Vendian (Ediacaran) sedimentary basin in the southwestern Siberian craton, with implications for the origin of its units and subunits. Sediments are been correlated along the craton edge and inward into the craton interior using stratigraphic sequences, including glacial and post-glacial deposits. Clastic complexes in the Vendian: upper Chapa, Taseeva, Oselok, and Baikal groups composed of fluvial deposits are of special importance for correlations. The structure of the continental Aysa Fm. of the Oselok Group in the Sayany area has been characterized in detail, based on universal classification of lithofacies and their sequences, and correlated with sediments in the craton interior. There are two Ediacaran subunits: a continental-marine complex below and a continental complex above. The continental-marine subunit in the subsided craton margins was deposited mainly upon postglacial plains (sandurs) and marginal sea shelves, with contributions from intracratonic clastic sources. The deposits of the continental subunit belong to centripetal fluvial systems directed from distant craton-margin mountain upland toward the epicontinental sea in the central Siberian craton. The continental subunit is composed of large sections of red and variegated fluvial deposits from a foreland basin which was accumulated mainly in foredeeps in the over-compensation setting and partly reached the slopes of forebulges. Big deep sand rivers with large channel bars were formed at early and late during orogenic activity, while perennial anastomosing and braided mud-sand rivers with levees originate during passive stages of orogeny. The largest progradation of fluvial systems onto the Siberian craton is marked by channel deposits of the lower members from the Nemchanka, Moshakovka, Aysa, Khuzhir and Kachergat fms., as well as by the Bokhan sandstone member of the Chora Fm.

The electron-transferring flavoprotein / butyryl-CoA dehydrogenase (EtfAB/Bcd) complex catalyzes the reduction of crotonyl-CoA and ferredoxins by NADH in anaerobic microbes. Here, the authors present the crystal structure of Clostridium difficile EtfAB/Bcd and discuss the bifurcation mechanism for electron flow.

Spontaneous intramural duodenal haematoma (IDH) is an uncommon pathology and it is usually related to anticoagulant therapy. Other causes include various pancreatic diseases, connective tissue disease, peptic ulcer disease and pancreaticoduodenal aneurysm. IDH of pancreatic origin has been infrequently reported. The disease course can be life-threatening and serious complications may occur, including gastric outlet obstruction, duodenal perforation and septicaemia. A case of pancreatic-induced IDH is presented, for which pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed as definitive treatment. In general, medical treatment with continuous nasogastric aspiration and total parenteral nutrition is recommended as initial management strategy. Surgical interventions (evacuation of blood clot or surgical resection) are reserved for patients in whom medical treatment fails or complications occur.