Clinical, phenotypic, and genotypic characteristics of ESBL-producing Salmonella enterica bloodstream infections from Qatar.

Background: Resistant Salmonella infections are a major global public health challenge particularly for multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates manifesting as bloodstream infections (BSIs). Objectives: To evaluate clinical, phenotypic, and genotypic characteristics of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Salmonella enterica BSIs from Qatar. Methods: Phenotypic ESBL Salmonella enterica from adult patients presenting with positive BSIs were collected between January 2019 to May 2020. Microbiological identification and characterization were performed using standard methods while genetic characteristics were examined through whole genome sequencing studies. Results: Of 151 episodes of Salmonella enterica BSI, 15 (10%) phenotypic ESBL isolates were collected. Recent travel was recorded in most cases (80%) with recent exposure to antimicrobials (27%). High-level resistance to quinolines, aminoglycosides, and cephalosporins was recorded (80-100%) while meropenem, tigecycline and colistin demonstrated universal susceptibility. Genomic evaluation demonstrated dominance of serotype Salmonella Typhi sequence type 1 (93%) while antimicrobial resistance genes revealed dominance of aminoglycoside resistance (100%), qnrS1 quinolones resistance (80%), blaCTX-M-15 ESBLs (86.7%), and paucity of AmpC resistance genes (6.7%). Conclusions: Invasive MDR Salmonella enterica is mainly imported, connected to patients from high prevalent regions with recent travel and antimicrobial use caused by specific resistant clones. In suspected cases of multidrug resistance, carbapenem therapy is recommended.

Epidemiology, Clinical, and Microbiological Characteristics of Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteremia in Qatar.

Antimicrobial resistance is a global healthcare threat with significant clinical and economic consequences peaking at secondary and tertiary care hospitals where multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDR GNB) lead to poor outcomes. A prospective study was conducted between January and December 2019 for all invasive bloodstream infections (BSIs) secondary to MDR GNB in Qatar identified during routine microbiological service to examine their clinical, microbiological, and genomic characteristics. Out of 3238 episodes of GNB BSIs, the prevalence of MDR GNB was 13% (429/3238). The predominant MDR pathogens were Escherichia coli (62.7%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (20.4%), Salmonella species (6.6%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5.3%), while out of 245 clinically evaluated patients, the majority were adult males, with the elderly constituting almost one-third of the cohort and with highest observed risk for prolonged hospital stays. The risk factors identified included multiple comorbidities, recent healthcare contact, previous antimicrobial therapy, and admission to critical care. The in-hospital mortality rate was recorded at 25.7%, associated with multiple comorbidities, admission to critical care, and the acquisition of MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Resistant pathogens demonstrated high levels of antimicrobial resistance but noticeable susceptibility to amikacin and carbapenems. Genomic analysis revealed that Escherichia coli ST131 and Salmonella enterica ST1 were the predominant clones not observed with other pathogens.

Streptococcus gordonii-associated infective endocarditis: Case series, literature review, and genetic study.

Key Clinical Message: Streptococcus gordonii-associated endocarditis is a rare occurrence, raising diagnostic challenges, and is often associated with considerable morbidity. However, vigilance can prevent devastating consequences. Abstract: Streptococcus gordonii-associated endocarditis is rarely reported but often associated with considerable morbidity. We describe three cases of infective endocarditis caused by S. gordonii during a four-week period in 2023, and the use of whole-genome sequencing to determine whether these isolates were genetically related. The available literature was reviewed.

Antimicrobial Resistance in Qatar: Prevalence and Trends before and Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global healthcare challenge with substantial morbidity, mortality, and management costs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a documented increase in antimicrobial consumption, particularly for severe and critical cases, as well as noticeable travel and social restriction measures that might influenced the spectrum of AMR. To evaluate the problem, retrospective data were collected on bacterial infections and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in Qatar before and after the pandemic from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2021, covering 53,183 pathogens isolated from reported infection episodes. The findings revealed a significant resistance pattern for extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-EBC), carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CR-EBC), and carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), ciprofloxacin-resistant Salmonella and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). For correlation with social restrictions, ESBL-EBC and MRSA were positively correlated with changing patterns of international travel (ρ = 0.71 and 0.67, respectively; p < 0.05), while CRPA was moderately correlated with the number of COVID-19 hospitalized patients (ρ = 0.49; p < 0.05). CREBC and CRPA respiratory infections were associated with hospitalized patients (OR: 3.08 and 2.00, respectively; p < 0.05). The findings emphasize the challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic and links to international travel, which probably will influence the local epidemiology of AMR that needs further surveillance and control strategies.

Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Pan-Drug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated in Qatar.

In secondary healthcare, carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CREs), such as those observed in Klebsiella pneumoniae, are a global public health priority with significant clinical outcomes. In this study, we described the clinical, phenotypic, and genotypic characteristics of three pan-drug-resistant (PDR) isolates that demonstrated extended resistance to conventional and novel antimicrobials. All patients had risk factors for the acquisition of multidrug-resistant organisms, while microbiological susceptibility testing showed resistance to all conventional antimicrobials. Advanced susceptibility testing demonstrated resistance to broad agents, such as ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftolozane-tazobactam, and meropenem-vaborbactam. Nevertheless, all isolates were susceptible to cefiderocol, suggested as one of the novel antimicrobials that demonstrated potent in vitro activity against resistant Gram-negative bacteria, including CREs, pointing toward its potential therapeutic role for PDR pathogens. Expanded genomic studies revealed multiple antimicrobial-resistant genes (ARGs), including blaNMD-5 and blaOXA derivative types, as well as a mutated outer membrane porin protein (OmpK37).

Penile vibratory stimulation in men with spinal cord injury: an educational video demonstration.

OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the different techniques used to perform successful penile vibratory stimulation (PVS) to induce ejaculation in men with spinal cord injuries (SCIs). DESIGN: A video demonstration of the PVS procedure performed in men with SCIs using the FertiCare 2.0 medical vibrator. SETTING: Major University Medical Center. PATIENTS: Men with SCIs. INTERVENTION(S): Spinal cord injury is the leading cause of anejaculation in young men. After SCIs, most of these men will need a method of assisted ejaculation to achieve biological fatherhood. In this study, a newly designed and tested vibrator (FertiCare 2.0) was used to induce ejaculation. The initial assessment of each patient included a standard history, physical examination, level of injury determination using the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury as well as assessment of the hip flexor reflex and the bulbocavernosus reflex. Patients with a level of injury at or rostral to T6 were pretreated with 10-40 mg of sublingual nifedipine to manage autonomic dysreflexia. A single vibrator was applied to the dorsum, or frenulum, of the glans penis. Stimulation is delivered in 2-minute increments to a maximum of 10 minutes per visit. Application of two vibrators or abdominal electrical stimulation concurrently with PVS was used in select patients. Ejaculated semen was collected in a sterile cup and examined after liquefaction. Bladder preparation using sperm wash medium was performed in patients suspected of experiencing retrograde ejaculation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Successful ejaculation after performing the PVS procedure in men with SCIs. RESULTS: Penile vibratory stimulation was successful in 86% of men whose level of injury was T10 or rostral. The total motile sperm count in antegrade ejaculates produced using PVS was >5 million (lower limit considered for intrauterine insemination) in 71% of ejaculates. No complications because of PVS were observed in 3,700 trials performed by our group and none in the patients presented in this video. CONCLUSION(S): Penile vibratory stimulation is a safe and effective method for the management of ejaculatory dysfunction in men with SCIs. Penile vibratory stimulation can be performed by the male partner after an initial evaluation by a specialized provider, and the ejaculate can be used to perform home insemination.

A phase 2 randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial to evaluate safety and efficacy of platelet-rich plasma injections for Peyronie's disease: clinical trial update.

Peyronie's Disease (PD) is characterized by fibrotic plaques in the penile tunica albuginea, causing curvature and painful erections. Current treatments have limited established efficacy. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), known for modulating inflammation, offers a potential alternative. This randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study at the University of Miami assesses PRP's safety and efficacy for PD. Forty-one PD patients were randomized into PRP-placebo (Group A) and placebo-PRP (Group B) sequences, receiving two injections of each treatment over three months, with a crossover to receive two injections of alternate treatment over the next three months. Assessments include pain scale, goniometry, questionnaires, and curvature evaluations. Preliminary analysis of 28 patients shows that PRP is safe. There were no adverse events, including penile complications, during follow-up. Pain scores during treatments showed no significant difference between PRP and placebo (p = 0.52). Over six months, the PRP-Placebo group's median PDQ score decreased from 1.9 (IQR: 1.7-2.9) to 1.4 (IQR: 0.7-2.1). This change was not statistically significant (p = 0.098). In contrast, the Placebo-PRP group showed a significant reduction from 1.8 (IQR: 1.4-2.6) to 1.2 (IQR: 1.0-2.0) (p = 0.020). No significant changes in IIEF scores were observed. Both groups initially had a median penile curvature of 40 degrees. At 3 months, the PRP-Placebo group's curvature decreased to 38 degrees (IQR: 35-47.5), while the Placebo-PRP group decreased to 35 degrees (IQR: 30-60). At 6 months, the PRP-Placebo group showed a significant reduction to 25 degrees (IQR: 20-40, p = 0.047), while the Placebo-PRP group's reduction to 32.5 degrees (IQR: 20-50) was not significant (p = 0.490). These early results indicate a delayed PRP effect, prompting further investigation into its long-term impacts. Although limited by sample size, this study suggests PRP injections as a safe treatment for PD, with ongoing research aiming to clarify its therapeutic value.

Mixtures Recomposition by Neural Nets: A Multidisciplinary Overview.

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are transforming how we understand chemical mixtures, providing an expressive view of the chemical space and multiscale processes. Their hybridization with physical knowledge can bridge the gap between predictivity and understanding of the underlying processes. This overview explores recent progress in ANNs, particularly their potential in the 'recomposition' of chemical mixtures. Graph-based representations reveal patterns among mixture components, and deep learning models excel in capturing complexity and symmetries when compared to traditional Quantitative Structure-Property Relationship models. Key components, such as Hamiltonian networks and convolution operations, play a central role in representing multiscale mixtures. The integration of ANNs with Chemical Reaction Networks and Physics-Informed Neural Networks for inverse chemical kinetic problems is also examined. The combination of sensors with ANNs shows promise in optical and biomimetic applications. A common ground is identified in the context of statistical physics, where ANN-based methods iteratively adapt their models by blending their initial states with training data. The concept of mixture recomposition unveils a reciprocal inspiration between ANNs and reactive mixtures, highlighting learning behaviors influenced by the training environment.

Population genomic analyses reveal high diversity, recombination and nosocomial transmission among Candida glabrata (Nakaseomyces glabrata) isolates causing invasive infections.

Candida glabrata is a commensal yeast of the gastrointestinal tract and skin of humans. However, it causes opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients, and is the second most common Candida pathogen causing bloodstream infections. Although there are many studies on the epidemiology of C. glabrata infections, the fine- and large-scale geographical nature of C. glabrata remain incompletely understood. Here we investigated both the fine- and large-scale population structure of C. glabrata through genome sequencing of 80 clinical isolates obtained from six tertiary hospitals in Qatar and by comparing with global collections. Our fine-scale analyses revealed high genetic diversity within the Qatari population of C. glabrata and identified signatures of recombination, inbreeding and clonal expansion within and between hospitals, including evidence for nosocomial transmission among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. In addition to signatures of recombination at the population level, both MATa and MATα alleles were detected in most hospitals, indicating the potential for sexual reproduction in clinical environments. Comparisons with global samples showed that the Qatari C. glabrata population was very similar to those from other parts of the world, consistent with the significant role of recent anthropogenic activities in shaping its population structure. Genome-wide association studies identified both known and novel genomic variants associated with reduced susceptibilities to fluconazole, 5-flucytosine and echinocandins. Together, our genomic analyses revealed the diversity, transmission patterns and antifungal drug resistance mechanisms of C. glabrata in Qatar as well as the relationships between Qatari isolates and those from other parts of the world.

The epidemiology and microbiological characteristics of infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria in Qatar: national surveillance from the Study for Monitoring of Antimicrobial Resistance Trends (SMART): 2017 to 2019.

Background: The global Study of Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance Trends (SMART) is a surveillance program for evaluation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) from different regions including Gulf countries. Objectives: To evaluate AMR in GNB from various clinical specimens including microbiological and genetic characteristics for existing and novel antimicrobials. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on clinical specimens from Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar, between 2017 and 2019 according to the SMART protocol. Consecutive GNB from different sites were evaluated including lower respiratory, urinary tract, intrabdominal and bloodstream infections. Results: Over the 3 years study period, 748 isolates were evaluated from the specified sites comprising 37 different GNB outlining four key pathogens: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia.For the two major pathogens E. coli and K. pneumoniae, phenotypic ESBL was identified in 55.77% (116/208) compared to 39% (73/187), while meropenem resistance was 3.8% compared to 12.8% and imipenem/relebactam resistance was 2.97% compared to 11.76%, respectively. The overall ceftolozane/tazobactam resistance for E. coli was 9.6% (20/208) compared to 14.97% (28/187) for K. pneumoniae while resistance for ceftazidime/avibactam was 3.65% (5/137) and 5.98% (10/117), respectively. Genomic characteristics of 70 Enterobacterales including 48 carbapenem-resistant, revealed prevalence of ß-lactamases from all classes, predominated by blaCXM-15 while carbapenem resistance revealed paucity of blaKPC and dominance of blaOXA-48 and blaNDM resistance genes. Conclusions: Surveillance of GNB from Qatar showed prevalence of key pathogens similar to other regions but demonstrated significant resistance patterns to existing and novel antimicrobials with different underlying resistance mechanisms.

Evaluation of Resistance of Oilseed Rape Genotypes to Turnip Yellows Virus.

Turnip yellows virus (TuYV), is one of the most important pathogens of oilseed rape, which has caused enormous yield losses in all growing regions of the world in recent years. Therefore, there is a need for resistant varieties for sustainable crop protection. We have investigated the resistance of known varieties and newly developed advanced-breeding lines of oilseed rape to TuYV in greenhouse and field trials. We have analysed the TuYV titre of individual genotypes inoculated with the virus using viruliferous aphids Myzus persicae. The genotypes 'DK Temptation' and 'Rescator' had the lowest and highest virus titres, respectively, and were used as resistant and susceptible models for comparative analyses with other genotypes. In the greenhouse, the best results were obtained with the genotypes 'OP-8143 DH' (2.94 × 105 copies), OP-BN-72 (3.29 × 105 copies), 'Navajo' (3.58 × 105 copies) and 'SG-C 21215' (4.09 × 105 copies), which reached virus titres about 2 times higher than the minimum virus concentration measured in 'DK Temptation' (1.80 × 105 copies). In the field trials, the genotypes 'Navajo' (3.39 × 105 copies), 'OP-8148 DH' (4.44 × 105 copies), 'SG-C 21215' (6.80 × 105 copies) and OP-8480 (7.19 × 105 copies) had the lowest virus titres and reached about 3 times the virus titre of DK Temptation (2.54 × 105 copies). Both trials showed that at least two commercial varieties (e.g., DK Temptation, Navajo) and three advanced breeding lines (e.g., OP-8143 DH, OP-BN-72, SG-C 21215) had low titres of the virus after TuYV infection. This indicates a high level of resistance to TuYV in 'Navajo' or the newly developed breeding lines and the basis of resistance is probably different from R54 (as in 'DK Temptation'). Furthermore, the greenhouse trials together with RT -qPCR-based virus titre analysis could be a cost-effective and efficient method to assess the level of resistance of a given genotype to TuYV infection compared to the field trials. However, further research is needed to identify the underlying mechanisms causing this difference in susceptibility.

Next-generation sequencing analysis of semen microbiome taxonomy in men with nonobstructive azoospermia vs. fertile controls: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVES: To study how the semen microbiome profile in men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) differs from that of fertile controls (FCs). DESIGN: Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and 16S ribosomal RNA, we sequenced semen samples from men with NOA (follicle-stimulating hormone >10 IU/mL, testis volume <10 mL) and FCs and performed a comprehensive taxonomic microbiome analysis. SETTING: All patients were identified during evaluation at the outpatient male andrology clinic at the University of Miami. PATIENTS: In total, 33 adult men, including 14 diagnosed with NOA and 19 with proven paternity undergoing vasectomy, were enrolled. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Bacterial species in the semen microbiome were identified. RESULTS: Alpha-diversity was similar between the groups, suggesting similar diversity within samples, whereas beta-diversity was different, suggesting differences in taxa between samples. In the NOA men, the phyla Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were underrepresented, and Actinobacteriota were overrepresented compared with FC men. At the genus level, Enterococcus was the most common amplicon sequence variant in both groups, whereas 5 genera differed significantly between the groups, including Escherichia and Shigella, Sneathia, and Raoutella. CONCLUSION: Our study showed significant differences in the seminal microbiome between men with NOA and fertile men. These results suggest a loss of functional symbiosis may be associated with NOA. Further research into the characterization and clinical utility of the semen microbiome and its causal role in male infertility is necessary.

Molecular characterization of Candida auris outbreak isolates in Qatar from patients with COVID-19 reveals the emergence of isolates resistant to three classes of antifungal drugs.

OBJECTIVES: During the COVID-19 pandemic in Qatar, many patients who were severely ill were colonized and infected by Candida auris, an invasive multidrug-resistant yeast pathogen that spreads through nosocomial transmission within healthcare facilities. Here, we investigated the molecular epidemiology of these C. auris isolates and the mechanisms associated with antifungal drug resistance. METHODS: Whole genomes of 76 clinical C. auris isolates, including 65 from patients with COVID-19 collected from March 2020 to June 2021, from nine major hospitals were sequenced on Illumina NextSeq. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were used to determine their epidemiological patterns and mechanisms for antifungal resistance. The data were compared with those published prior to the COVID-19 pandemic from 2018 to 2020 in Qatar. RESULTS: Genomic analysis revealed low genetic variability among the isolates from patients with and without COVID-19, confirming a clonal outbreak and ongoing dissemination of C. auris among various healthcare facilities. Based on antifungal susceptibility profiles, more than 70% (22/28) of isolates were resistant to both fluconazole and amphotericin B. Variant analysis revealed the presence of multi-antifungal resistant isolates with prominent amino acid substitutions: Y132F in ERG11 and V704L in CDR1 linked to reduced azole susceptibility and the emergence of echinocandin resistance samples bearing mutations in FKS1 in comparison with pre-COVID-19 pandemic samples. One sample (CAS109) was resistant to three classes of antifungal drugs with a unique premature stop codon in ERG3 and novel mutations in CDR2, which may be associated with elevated amphotericin B and azole resistance. DISCUSSION: Candida auris isolates from patients with COVID-19 and from most patient samples without COVID-19 in Qatar were highly clonal. The data demonstrated the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains that carry novel mutations linked to enhanced resistance to azoles, echinocandins, and amphotericin B. Understanding the epidemiology and drug resistance will inform the infection control strategy and drug therapy.

Platelet-rich Plasma for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial.

PURPOSE: We assessed the safety and efficacy of 2 injections of platelet-rich plasma for treating mild to moderate erectile dysfunction by conducting a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (International Index of Erectile Function scores 11-25) were randomized to receive either 2 injections of platelet-rich plasma or placebo separated by 1 month. Primary outcome was percentage of men meeting minimum clinically important difference at 1 month after the second injection. Secondary outcomes were change in International Index of Erectile Function at 1, 3, and 6 months, and changes in penile vascular parameters and adverse events at 6 months. RESULTS: We randomized 61 men: 28 into platelet-rich plasma and 33 into placebo. There was no difference between groups in percentage of men meeting minimum clinically important difference at 1 month: 14 (58.3%) in platelet-rich plasma vs 15 (53.6%) in placebo (P = .730). Mean International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function domain changed from 17.4 (95% CI 15.8-19.0) to 21 (17.9-24.0) at 1 month in men receiving platelet-rich plasma, vs 18.6 (17.3-19.8) to 21.6 (19.1-24.1) in the placebo group; however, there was no significant difference between groups (P = .756). There were no major adverse events and only 1 minor adverse event in each group. There were no changes in penile Doppler parameters from baseline to 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: The results of our prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial suggest that 2 injections of intracavernosal platelet-rich plasma separated by 1 month in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction is safe, but we found no difference in efficacy between platelet-rich plasma and placebo.

Transcriptome Dynamics in Triticum aestivum Genotypes Associated with Resistance against the Wheat Dwarf Virus.

Wheat dwarf virus (WDV) is one of the most important pathogens of cereal crops worldwide. To understand the molecular mechanism of resistance, here we investigated the comparative transcriptome of wheat genotypes with different levels of resistance (Svitava and Fengyou 3) and susceptibility (Akteur) to WDV. We found a significantly higher number of differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) in the susceptible genotype than in the resistant one (e.g., Svitava). The number of downregulated transcripts was also higher in the susceptible genotype than in the resistant one (Svitava) and the opposite was true for the upregulated transcripts. Further functional analysis of gene ontology (GO) enrichment identified a total of 114 GO terms for the DETs. Of these, 64 biological processes, 28 cellular components and 22 molecular function GO terms were significantly enriched. A few of these genes appear to have a specific expression pattern related to resistance or susceptibility to WDV infection. Validation of the expression pattern by RT-qPCR showed that glycosyltransferase was significantly downregulated in the susceptible genotype compared to the resistant genotypes after WDV infection, while CYCLIN-T1-3, a regulator of CDK kinases (cyclin-dependent kinase), was upregulated. On the other hand, the expression pattern of the transcription factor (TF) MYB (TraesCS4B02G174600.2; myeloblastosis domain of transcription factor) was downregulated by WDV infection in the resistant genotypes compared to the susceptible genotype, while a large number of TFs belonging to 54 TF families were differentially expressed due to WDV infection. In addition, two transcripts (TraesCS7A02G341400.1 and TraesCS3B02G239900.1) were upregulated with uncharacterised proteins involved in transport and regulation of cell growth, respectively. Altogether, our findings showed a clear gene expression profile associated with resistance or susceptibility of wheat to WDV. In future studies, we will explore the regulatory network within the same experiment context. This knowledge will broaden not only the future for the development of virus-resistant wheat genotypes but also the future of genetic improvement of cereals for resilience and WDV-resistance breeding.

Identifying Putative Resistance Genes for Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus-PAV in Wheat and Barley.

Barley yellow dwarf viruses (BYDVs) are one of the most widespread and economically important plant viruses affecting many cereal crops. Growing resistant varieties remains the most promising approach to reduce the impact of BYDVs. A Recent RNA sequencing analysis has revealed potential genes that respond to BYDV infection in resistant barley genotypes. Together with a comprehensive review of the current knowledge on disease resistance in plants, we selected nine putative barley and wheat genes to investigate their involvement in resistance to BYDV-PAV infection. The target classes of genes were (i) nucleotide binding site (NBS) leucine-rich repeat (LRR), (ii) coiled-coil nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat (CC-NB-LRR), (iii) LRR receptor-like kinase (RLK), (iv) casein kinase, (v) protein kinase, (vi) protein phosphatase subunits and the transcription factors (TF) (vii) MYB TF, (viii) GRAS (gibberellic acid-insensitive (GAI), repressor of GAI (RGA) and scarecrow (SCR)), and (ix) the MADS-box TF family. Expression of genes was analysed for six genotypes with different levels of resistance. As in previous reports, the highest BYDV-PAV titre was found in the susceptible genotypes Graciosa in barley and Semper and SGS 27-02 in wheat, which contrast with the resistant genotypes PRS-3628 and Wysor of wheat and barley, respectively. Statistically significant changes in wheat show up-regulation of NBS-LRR, CC-NBS-LRR and RLK in the susceptible genotypes and down-regulation in the resistant genotypes in response to BYDV-PAV. Similar up-regulation of NBS-LRR, CC-NBS-LRR, RLK and MYB TF in response to BYDV-PAV was also observed in the susceptible barley genotypes. However, no significant changes in the expression of these genes were generally observed in the resistant barley genotypes, except for the down-regulation of RLK. Casein kinase and Protein phosphatase were up-regulated early, 10 days after inoculation (dai) in the susceptible wheat genotypes, while the latter was down-regulated at 30 dai in resistant genotypes. Protein kinase was down-regulated both earlier (10 dai) and later (30 dai) in the susceptible wheat genotypes, but only in the later dai in the resistant genotypes. In contrast, GRAS TF and MYB TF were up-regulated in the susceptible wheat genotypes while no significant differences in MADS TF expression was observed. Protein kinase, Casein kinase (30 dai), MYB TF and GRAS TF (10 dai) were all up-regulated in the susceptible barley genotypes. However, no significant differences were found between the resistant and susceptible barley genotypes for the Protein phosphatase and MADS FT genes. Overall, our results showed a clear differentiation of gene expression patterns in both resistant and susceptible genotypes of wheat and barley. Therefore, further research on RLK, NBS-LRR, CC-NBS-LRR, GRAS TF and MYB TF can lead to BYDV-PAV resistance in cereals.

The Comparative Toxicity, Biochemical and Physiological Impacts of Chlorantraniliprole and Indoxacarb on Mamestra brassicae (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

BACKGROUND: The cabbage moth, Mamestra brassicae, is a polyphagous pest that attacks several crops. Here, the sublethal and lethal effects of chlorantraniliprole and indoxacarb were investigated on the developmental stages, detoxification enzymes, reproductive activity, calling behavior, peripheral physiology, and pheromone titer of M. brasssicae. Methods: To assess pesticide effects, the second instar larvae were maintained for 24 h on a semi-artificial diet containing insecticides at their LC10, LC30, and LC50 concentrations. RESULTS: M. brassicae was more susceptible to chlorantraniliprole (LC50 = 0.35 mg/L) than indoxacarb (LC50 = 1.71 mg/L). A significantly increased developmental time was observed with both insecticides at all tested concentrations but decreases in pupation rate, pupal weight, and emergence were limited to the LC50 concentration. Reductions in both the total number of eggs laid per female and the egg viability were observed with both insecticides at their LC30 and LC50 concentrations. Both female calling activity and the sex pheromone (Z11-hexadecenyl acetate and hexadecenyl acetate) titer were significantly reduced by chlorantraniliprole in LC50 concentration. Antennal responses of female antennae to benzaldehyde and 3-octanone were significantly weaker than controls after exposure to the indoxocarb LC50 concentration. Significant reductions in the enzymatic activity of glutathione S-transferases, mixed-function oxidases, and carboxylesterases were observed in response to both insecticides.

Vaccine evaluation and genotype characterization in children infected with rotavirus in Qatar.

BACKGROUND: We characterized and identified the genetic and antigenic variations of circulating rotavirus strains in comparison to used rotavirus vaccines. METHODS: Rotavirus-positive samples (n = 231) were collected and analyzed. The VP7 and VP4 genes were sequenced and analyzed against the rotavirus vaccine strains. Antigenic variations were illustrated on the three-dimensional models of surface proteins. RESULTS: In all, 59.7% of the hospitalized children were vaccinated, of which only 57.2% received two doses. There were no significant differences between the vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups in terms of clinical outcome. The G3 was the dominant genotype (40%) regardless of vaccination status. Several amino acid changes were identified in the VP7 and VP4 antigenic epitopes compared to the licensed vaccines. The highest variability was seen in the G3 (6 substitutions) and P[4] (11 substitutions) genotypes in comparison to RotaTeq®. In comparison to Rotarix®, G1 strains possessed three amino acid changes in 7-1a and 7-2 epitopes while P[8] strains possessed five amino acid changes in 8-1 and 8-3 epitopes. CONCLUSIONS: The current use of Rotarix® vaccine might not be effective in preventing the infection due to the higher numbers of G3-associated cases. The wide range of mutations in the antigenic epitopes compared to vaccine strains may compromise the vaccine's effectiveness. IMPACT: The reduced rotavirus vaccine effectiveness necessitate regular evaluation of the vaccine content to ensure optimal protection. We characterized and identified the genetic and antigenic variations of circulating rotavirus strains in comparison to the Rotarix vaccine strain that is used in Qatar. The study highlight the importance for regular monitoring of emerging rotavirus variants and their impact on vaccine effectiveness in young children.

Effect of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation Emitted by Modern Cellphones on Sperm Motility and Viability: An In Vitro Study.

BACKGROUND: Cellphones emit radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) for transmission of data for social media communication, web browsing, and music/podcast streaming. Use of Bluetooth ear buds has probably prolonged the time during which cellphones reside in the trouser pockets of men. It has been postulated that RF-EMR increases oxidative stress and induces free radical formation. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of wireless-spectrum (4G, 5G, and WiFi) RF-EMR emitted by modern smartphones on sperm motility and viability and explore whether these effects can be mitigated using a physical barrier or distance. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Semen samples were obtained from fertile normozoospermic men aged 25-35 yr. A current-generation smartphone in talk mode was used as the RF-EMR source. A WhatsApp voice call was made using either 4G, 5G, or WiFi wireless connectivity. We determined if exposure effects were mitigated by either a cellphone case or greater distance from the semen sample. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The semen samples were analyzed according to 2010 World Health Organization laboratory guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.28. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: We observed decreases in sperm motility and viability with WiFi exposure but not with exposure to 4G or 5G RF-EMR. With large variability among smartphones, continued research on exposure effects is needed. CONCLUSIONS: Our exploratory study revealed that sperm motility and viability are negatively impacted by smartphones that use the WiFi spectrum for data transmission. PATIENT SUMMARY: We looked at the effect of cellphone use on sperm motility and viability. We found that cellphones using WiFi connectivity for data usage have harmful effects on semen quality in men.