bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide translation control analysis of developing human neurons
Authors: Lins Érico Moreto , Oliveira Natássia Cristina Martins , Reis Osvaldo , Ferrasa Adriano , Herai Roberto , Muotri Alysson R. , Massirer Katlin Brauer , Bengtson Mário Henrique
Published: June 2022

During neuronal differentiation, neuroprogenitor cells become polarized, change shape, extend axons, and form complex dendritic trees. While growing, axons are guided by molecular cues to their final destination, where they establish synaptic connections with other neuronal cells. Several layers of regulation are integrated to control neuronal development properly. Although control of mRNA translation plays an essential role in mammalian gene expression, how it contributes temporarily to the modulation of later stages of neuronal differentiation remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated how translation control affects pathways and processes essential for neuronal maturation, using H9-derived human neuro progenitor cells differentiated into neurons as a model. Through Ribosome Profiling (Riboseq) combined with RNA sequencing (RNAseq) analysis, we found that translation control regulates the expression of critical hub genes. Fundamental synaptic vesicle secretion genes belonging to SNARE complex, Rab family members, and vesicle acidification ATPases are strongly translationally regulated in developing neurons. Translational control also participates in neuronal metabolism modulation, particularly affecting genes involved in the TCA cycle and glutamate synthesis/catabolism. Importantly, we found translation regulation of several critical genes with fundamental roles regulating actin and microtubule cytoskeleton pathways, critical to neurite generation, spine formation, axon guidance, and circuit formation. Our results show that translational control dynamically integrates important signals in neurons, regulating several aspects of its development and biology.
Management of avian malaria in populations of high conservation concern
Authors: Miranda Paez Andrea , Chalkowski Kayleigh , Zohdy Sarah , Willoughby Janna R.
Published: June 2022

Avian malaria is a vector-borne disease that is caused by Plasmodium parasites. These parasites are transmitted via mosquito bites and can cause sickness or death in a wide variety of birds, including many threatened and endangered species. This Primer first provides contextual background for the avian malaria system including the life cycle, geographic distribution and spread. Then, we focus on recent advances in understanding avian malaria ecology, including how avian malaria can lead to large ecosystem changes and variation in host immune responses to Plasmodium infection. Finally, we review advances in avian malaria management in vulnerable bird populations including genetic modification methods suitable for limiting the effects of this disease in wild populations and the use of sterile insect techniques to reduce vector abundance.

Graphical Abstract
Integrated genomic analyses of acral and mucosal melanomas nominate novel driver genes
Authors: Wang Meng , Banik Ishani , Shain A. Hunter , Yeh Iwei , Bastian Boris C.
Published: June 2022

Background

Acral and mucosal melanomas are aggressive subtypes of melanoma, which have a significantly lower burden of somatic mutations than cutaneous melanomas, but more frequent copy number variations, focused gene amplifications, and structural alterations. The landscapes of their genomic alterations remain to be fully characterized.

Methods

We compiled sequencing data of 240 human acral and mucosal melanoma samples from 11 previously published studies and applied a uniform pipeline to call tumor cell content, ploidy, somatic and germline mutations, as well as CNVs, LOH, and SVs. We identified genes that are significantly mutated or recurrently affected by CNVs and implicated in oncogenesis. We further examined the difference in the frequency of recurrent pathogenic alterations between the two melanoma subtypes, correlation between pathogenic alterations, and their association with clinical features.

Results

We nominated PTPRJ, mutated and homozygously deleted in 3.8% (9/240) and 0.8% (2/240) of samples, respectively, as a probable tumor suppressor gene, and FER and SKP2, amplified in 3.8% and 11.7% of samples, respectively, as probable oncogenes. We further identified a long tail of infrequent pathogenic alterations, involving genes such as CIC and LZTR1. Pathogenic germline mutations were observed on MITF, PTEN, ATM, and PRKN. We found BRAF V600E mutations in acral melanomas with fewer structural variations, suggesting that they are distinct and related to cutaneous melanomas. Amplifications of PAK1 and GAB2 were more commonly observed in acral melanomas, whereas SF3B1 R625 codon mutations were unique to mucosal melanomas (12.9%). Amplifications at 11q13-14 were frequently accompanied by fusion to a region on chromosome 6q12, revealing a recurrent novel structural rearrangement whose role remains to be elucidated.

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis expands the catalog of driver mutations in acral and mucosal melanomas, sheds new light on their pathogenesis and broadens the catalog of therapeutic targets for these difficult-to-treat cancers.
The prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus (The role of lifestyle): a meta-analysis
Authors: Altemani Abdullah H. , Alzaheb Riyadh A.
Published: June 2022

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common complication of pregnancy. The disease is on the rise worldwide with deleterious consequences on the fetus, mother, and children. The study aimed to review the role of lifestyle in the prevention of GDM. We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EBSCO, and Google Scholar from the first published article up to December 2021; articles were eligible if they were controlled trials, prospective cohorts, and case–control. Out of 5559 articles retrieved, 66 full texts were screened, and 19 studies were included in the meta-analysis. (6 studies assessed the effects of diet, and 13 were on exercise). The dietary intervention showed significant positive effect on GDM, odd ratio = 0.69, 95% CI, 0.56–84, P-value for overall effect = 0.002. The DASH diet was better than Mediterranean Diet (odd ratio, 0.71, 95% CI, 68–74, P-value < 0.001). Regarding exercise, no significant prevention was evident on GDM, odd ratio, 0.77, 95% CI, 0.55–1.06, P-value = 0.11. However, a significant prevention of gestational diabetes was found when the exercise was mild-moderate (odd ratio = 0.65, 95% CI, 0.53–80, P < 0.0001) and started in the first trimester (odd ratio, 0.57, 95% CI, 0.43–0.75, P < 0.0001. No significant effect was found when the exercise was vigorous (odd ratio = 1.09, 95% CI, 0.50–2.38, P = 0.83) and started during the second trimester of pregnancy (odd ratio, 1.08, 95% CI, 0.65–1.80, P = 0.77. Diet and early mild-moderate exercise were effective in GDM prevention. Exercise during the second trimester and moderate-vigorous were not. Further studies assessing the type, duration, and frequency of physical activity are needed.
Cross-sectional chest circumference and shape development in infants
Authors: Seifnaraghi Nima , de Gelidi Serena , Frerichs Inéz , Kallio Merja , Sorantin Erich , Tizzard Andrew , Demosthenous Andreas , Bayford Richard H.
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study investigates the development of the thoracic cross-section at the nipple line level during the early stages of life. Unlike the descriptive awareness regarding chest development course, there exist no quantitative references concerning shape, circumference and possible dependencies to age, gender or body weight. The proposed mathematical relations are expected to help create guidelines for more realistic modelling and potential detection of abnormalities. One potential application is lung electrical impedance tomography (EIT) monitoring where accurate chest models are crucial in both extracting reliable parameters for regional ventilation function and design of EIT belts. Despite their importance, such reference data is not readily available for the younger age range due to insufficient data amid the regulations of neonatal imaging.

Results

Chest circumference shows the highest correlation to body weight following the relation $$f\left(x\right)= 18.3735 \ \mathrm{ln}\left(0.0012x+2.1010\right)$$

f

x

=
18.3735

ln

0.0012
x
+
2.1010

where x is the body weight in grams and f(x) is the chest circumference in cm at the nipple line level. No statistically significant difference in chest circumference between genders was detected. However, the shape indicated signs of both age and gender dependencies with on average boys developing a more rectangular shape than girls from the age of 1 years and 9 months.
Superior peroneal retinaculum reattachment for an atraumatic peroneus brevis tendon subluxation: a case report
Authors: Grandberg Camila , de Oliveira Diovano Paust , Gali Julio Cesar
Published: June 2022

Background

Peroneal tendon subluxation is a rare pathology, generally associated with sport-induced trauma, that occurs due to the rupture of the superior peroneal retinaculum. The diagnosis is mainly clinical, but the use of imaging techniques, such as dynamic ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, may contribute to its clarification. Treatment may be conservative or surgical, although there is no consensus on the most appropriate technique to be employed. We report a case of subluxation of the peroneus brevis tendon, with no apparent traumatic cause, in which there was a need for a surgical approach after the failure of conservative treatment.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old White woman presented pain and locking of the lateral side of the left foot 2 years earlier, with no history of trauma. The patient felt pain upon palpation and presented snapping during flexion–extension of the left ankle. On dynamic ultrasonography, an anterior subluxation of the peroneus brevis tendon occurred when the ankle was in dorsiflexion, suggesting superior peroneal retinaculum injury. Surgical correction was recommended after 2 months of conservative treatment with no improvement. The chosen surgical technique was isolated reattachment of the superior peroneal retinaculum, which proved successful.

Conclusions

Peroneal tendon subluxation has no established preferred surgical technique. This case demonstrates superior peroneal retinaculum repair as an efficient surgical approach for this condition. Furthermore, the atraumatic mechanism of injury in this case, along with the unknown true incidence of peroneal tendon subluxation, highlights the need to consider this pathology in cases of ankle injuries.
Sex differences in the human metabolome
Authors: Costanzo Michele , Caterino Marianna , Sotgiu Giovanni , Ruoppolo Margherita , Franconi Flavia , Campesi Ilaria
Published: June 2022

Background

The sexual dimorphism represents one of the triggers of the metabolic disparities between the organisms, advising about wild implications in research or diagnostics contexts. Despite the mounting recognition of the importance of sex consideration in the biomedical fields, the identification of male- and female-specific metabolic signatures has not been achieved.

Main body

This review pointed the focus on the metabolic differences related to the sex, evidenced by metabolomics studies performed on healthy populations, with the leading aim of understanding how the sex influences the baseline metabolome. The main shared signatures and the apparent dissimilarities between males and females were extracted and highlighted from the metabolome of the most commonly analyzed biological fluids, such as serum, plasma, and urine. Furthermore, the influence of age and the significant interactions between sex and age have been taken into account.

Conclusions

The recognition of sex patterns in human metabolomics has been defined in diverse biofluids. The detection of sex- and age-related differences in the metabolome of healthy individuals are helpful for translational applications from the bench to the bedside to set targeted diagnostic and prevention approaches in the context of personalized medicine.

Graphical Abstract
Damaged glyptodontid skulls from Late Pleistocene sites of northwestern Venezuela: evidence of hunting by humans?
Authors: Carlini Alfredo A. , Carrillo-Briceño Jorge D. , Jaimes Arturo , Aguilera Orangel , Zurita Alfredo E. , Iriarte José , Sánchez-Villagra Marcelo R.
Published: June 2022

The Muaco and Taima-Taima sites, in Falcón State of northwestern Venezuela, are among the earliest sites of human occupation in South America containing artifacts associated with preserved megafaunal remains and dating between 19,810 and 15,780 calybp. Here we report novel visual and CT scanning analysis of six glyptodont skulls of Glyptotherium cf. cylindricum from these sites, of which four exhibit distinct and similar patterns of breakages in the fronto-parietal region that suggest intentional blows by direct percussion by humans, with fractures not being diagenetic but instead antemortem or transmortem. This hypothesized and unreported hunting technique focused in an area of the skull where the cephalic shield becomes thin, thus increasing the effectiveness of the blow. From Taima-Taima other glyptodont remains included an inverted carapace, also previously reported as probable evidence of human–glyptodont interaction during the latest Pleistocene. We estimated that roughly 150-170 Kg of potentially accessible muscles and fat of an adult Glyptotherium cylindricum could be used as food sources.
Evaluation of antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects of Echinacea and Arctium extracts and Zataria essential oil
Authors: Yazdanian Mohsen , Rostamzadeh Pouya , Alam Mostafa , Abbasi Kamyar , Tahmasebi Elahe , Tebyaniyan Hamid , Ranjbar Reza , Seifalian Alexander , Moghaddam Mehrdad Moosazadeh , Kahnamoei Majid Balaei
Published: June 2022

Dental caries and oral infections have become a widespread issue in the modern world. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxicity characteristics of the extracts ofEchinacea purpura,Arctium lappa, and the essential oil ofZataria multifloraas a potential herbal mouthwash. The essential oil ofZ. multifloraleaves and the extracts ofE. purpurea and A. lapparoots were prepared. The characterization was carried out by GC-MS and also, total phenol and flavonoid were assed for all three samples. The antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effects were evaluated againstStreptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus salivarius, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus,andCandida albicans.The cytotoxic effect of the samples was evaluated on HEK 293 and HDFa cells by MTT test. Thymol and carvacrol contents in EO ofZ. multiflorawere measured at 31% and 42.2%, respectively.A. lappahad the lowest total phenolic and flavonoid value among the samples. On the other hand, the total phenolic content ofZ. multifloraand the total flavonoid content ofE. purpureawere the highest. The MIC values ofZataria,Arctium, andEchinaceaagainstS. mutanswere 0.011% v/v, 187.5 mg/ml, and 93.75 mg/ml, while MBC were 0.011% v/v, 375 mg/ml, and 187.5 mg/ml, respectively. The formulation showed bactericidal activity againstS. mutansin the concentration of 5.86 mg/ml for Echinacea and Burdock extracts and 0.08 µl/ml for EO ofZataria.The formulation significantly affected microbial biofilm formation and induced biofilm degradation. The cell viability percentages were higher than 50% during 24 and 48 h. The formulation had a significant antimicrobial effect on cariogenic bacteria andC. albicans, with the lowest cytotoxic effects. Therefore, this formulation can be an appropriate candidate for mouthwash.
Identification of peroxiredoxin II and its related molecules as potential biomarkers of dermal mesenchymal stem cell homing using network analysis
Authors: Han Ying-Hao , Mao Ying-Ying , Feng Yao-Yuan , Xiang Hong-Yi , Sun Hu-Nan , Jin Mei-Hua , Kwon Taeho
Published: June 2022

In this study, we performed RNA sequencing of Prx II+/+ and Prx II−/− dermal mesenchymal stem cells (DMSCs) to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). To explore the role of Prx II in DMSCs, we performed Gene Ontology analysis of the DEGs. The results showed that the DEGs were mainly involved in the biological processes of cell migration, intercellular adhesion, and coordination of the regulation of stem cell homing. Through the construction of protein–protein interaction network, four hub genes Cd274, Ccl5, Il1b, and Stat1 involved in cell adhesion and cell homing were screened. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR analysis showed that Cd274, Ccl5, Il1b, and Stat1 were down regulated in Prx II−/− DMSCs. miRwalk and Starbase databases were further used to screen the upstream molecules miRNA and lncRNA regulating hub gene. Prx II was found to be involved in the regulation of stem cell homing via the Tctn2/miR-351/Stat1/Il1b axis. Thus, we demonstrated that Prx II is a key molecule in the regulation of the homing ability of DMSCs. Our results provide a theoretical foundation for improving the homing ability of DMSCs by targeting Prx II.
Evaluation of Mechanical Characteristics of High-Strength Reinforced Concrete Columns with Hexagonal Chicken Wire Mesh Under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Bastami Morteza , Mousavi Ahmad Elmi , Abbasnejadfard Mostafa
Published: June 2022

Recently, new materials and methods have been implemented to improve the performance of reinforced concrete columns. This paper studies experimentally the behavior of reinforced high-strength columns, with additional internal confinement using hexagonal chicken wire mesh (HCWM) to enhance ductility, energy absorption, and ultimate strength and reduce the brittleness of traditional columns. Eight double-ended one-third-scale columns with different volumetric ratios of transverse rebar have been constructed and loaded under the uniform axial compression and lateral cyclic loads. Different volumetric ratios of transverse rebar were provided based on special, intermediate, and ordinary moment frames specifications of ACI 318–14 (named SD, ID, and OD, respectively). The specimens were confined by transverse rebars and HCWM and the results were compared with reference specimens with traditional transverse ties. Experimental findings demonstrated that HCWM specimens exhibited better performance compared to their control specimens concerning crack control efficiency, load capacity, ductility, energy dissipation, and failure modes. Implementation of HCWM increased the ultimate deformation, ductility, and energy absorption of OD specimens up to 21%, 50%, and 175%, respectively, compared to their control specimen. Confinement of the concrete columns by HCWM increased the ultimate strength of OD and ID specimens up to 15% and 22% under the cyclic load, but has a negligible effect on SD columns due to enough ratio of transverse and longitudinal rebars in SD specimens. As a result, confinement of specimens by HCWM could be regarded as a simple and effective method to improve the seismic characteristics of RC columns, particularly those members constructed with a minimal number of transverse rebars.
Heat stress impacts the multi-domain ruminal microbiota and some of the functional features independent of its effect on feed intake in lactating dairy cows
Authors: Park Tansol , Ma Lu , Gao Shengtao , Bu Dengpan , Yu Zhongtang
Published: June 2022

Background

Heat stress (HS) affects the ruminal microbiota and decreases the lactation performance of dairy cows. Because HS decreases feed intake, the results of previous studies were confounded by the effect of HS on feed intake. This study examined the direct effect of HS on the ruminal microbiota using lactating Holstein cows that were pair-fed and housed in environmental chambers in a 2 × 2 crossover design. The cows were pair-fed the same amount of identical total mixed ration to eliminate the effect of feed or feed intake. The composition and structure of the microbiota of prokaryotes, fungi, and protozoa were analyzed using metataxonomics and compared between two thermal conditions: pair-fed thermoneutrality (PFTN, thermal humidity index: 65.5) and HS (87.2 for daytime and 81.8 for nighttime).

Results

The HS conditions altered the structure of the prokaryotic microbiota and the protozoal microbiota, but not the fungal microbiota. Heat stress significantly increased the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes (primarily Gram-negative bacteria) while decreasing that of Firmicutes (primarily Gram-positive bacteria) and the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio. Some genera were exclusively found in the heat-stressed cows and thermal control cows. Some co-occurrence and mutual exclusion between some genera were also found exclusively for each thermal condition. Heat stress did not significantly affect the overall functional features predicted using the 16S rRNA gene sequences and ITS1 sequences, but some enzyme-coding genes altered their relative abundance in response to HS.

Conclusions

Overall, HS affected the prokaryotes, fungi, and protozoa of the ruminal microbiota in lactating Holstein cows to a different extent, but the effect on the structure of ruminal microbiota and functional profiles was limited when not confounded by the effect on feed intake. However, some genera and co-occurrence were exclusively found in the rumen of heat-stressed cows. These effects should be attributed to the direct effect of heat stress on the host metabolism, physiology, and behavior. Some of the “heat-stress resistant” microbes may be useful as potential probiotics for cows under heat stress.
The oral microbiome, pancreatic cancer and human diversity in the age of precision medicine
Authors: Herremans Kelly M. , Riner Andrea N. , Cameron Miles E. , McKinley Kelley L. , Triplett Eric W. , Hughes Steven J. , Trevino Jose G.
Published: June 2022

Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease with limited diagnostic and treatment options. Not all populations are affected equally, as disparities exist in pancreatic cancer prevalence, treatment and outcomes. Recently, next-generation sequencing has facilitated a more comprehensive analysis of the human oral microbiome creating opportunity for its application in precision medicine. Oral microbial shifts occur in patients with pancreatic cancer, which may be appreciated years prior to their diagnosis. In addition, pathogenic bacteria common in the oral cavity have been found within pancreatic tumors. Despite these findings, much remains unknown about how or why the oral microbiome differs in patients with pancreatic cancer. As individuals develop, their oral microbiome reflects both their genotype and environmental influences. Genetics, race/ethnicity, smoking, socioeconomics and age affect the composition of the oral microbiota, which may ultimately play a role in pancreatic carcinogenesis. Multiple mechanisms have been proposed to explain the oral dysbiosis found in patients with pancreatic cancer though they have yet to be confirmed. With a better understanding of the interplay between the oral microbiome and pancreatic cancer, improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches may be implemented to reduce healthcare disparities.
Moving wildlife tracking forward under forested conditions with the SWIFT GPS algorithm
Authors: Forrest S. W. , Recio M. R. , Seddon P. J.
Published: June 2022

The remote collection of animal location data has proliferated in recent decades, and higher-frequency data are increasingly available with battery-saving optimisations such as ‘snapshot’ algorithms that acquire GPS satellite data and post-process locations off-board. This is the first study to assess the effects of vegetation and topography on the fix success rate and location error of global positioning system (GPS) devices that use the SWIFT fix algorithm, developed by Lotek. To assess fix success rate (FSR—the proportion of successful fixes compared to the total number of attempts) and location error (LE), we conducted a stationary test at a predominately forested site on the South Island of New Zealand. The overall FSR was 83% (± 15.3% SD), which was affected strongly by canopy closure above 90%. Half of the locations were within 8.65 m of the true location, 79.7% were within 30 m, and 95% of locations were within 271 m. When 6 or more satellites were used, this reduced to 4.92 m and 18.6 m for 50% and 95%, respectively. Horizontal dilution of precision (HDOP), the number of satellites, and canopy closure all influenced location error. To field test the fix success rate of SWIFT GPS devices, we deployed them on forest-dwelling parrots with 2 and 3-h fix intervals, which showed similar FSR results to the stationary test when cavity-nesting individuals were removed (FSR mean ± SD = 81.6 ± 5.0%). The devices lasted an average of 147 days before depleting the battery, resulting in an average of 1087 successful fixes per individual at an average time of 9.38 s to acquire the GPS ephemeris, resulting in an average of 3.73 attempted locations per mAh of battery for PinPoint 350 devices. Our study provides a baseline for fix success rates and location errors under forested conditions that can be used for future SWIFT GPS tracking studies.
Evaluation of the therapeutic effect of mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with Gallic acid on reserpine-induced depression in Wistar rats
Authors: Fahmy Heba M. , Mohamed Eman R. , Hussein Aida A. , Khadrawy Yasser A. , Ahmed Nawal A.
Published: June 2022

Background

The current study evaluates the free gallic acid (GA) and GA-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) antidepressant efficacy in a rat model of depression caused by reserpine.

Methods

By using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential, MSNs and GA-loaded MSNs were characterized. The efficiency of encapsulation and the release of GA-loaded MSNs were also investigated. The effect of GA, either in its free form or loaded on (MSNs) on oxidative stress biomarkers and monoamine neurotransmitters levels (serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NEP), and dopamine (DA)), were evaluated in these areas (cortex, hippocampus, striatum, and hypothalamus) of control, a depression model of rat, a depression model of rat treated with either free GA, MSNs or GA loaded MSNs. The forced swimming test (FST) also the open field test (OFT) were carried out to evaluate the behavioral changes in all groups.

Results

Reserpine caused a decrease in the time spent in motor and swimming activity besides increasing the time of immobility, as demonstrated by OFT and FST. Significantly reductions in 5-HT, NEP, and DA were obtained in the cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and striatum of reserpine-treated rats. Free GA was more effective in increasing the serotonin level in the cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus, while GA-loaded MSNs were more effective in increasing it in the striatum. GA-loaded MSNs also increased the level of NEP in the four studied brain areas. Free GA increased dopamine levels in the cortex and striatum, whereas GA-loaded MSNs increased DA levels in the hippocampus and hypothalamus compared with the depressed untreated group.

Conclusions

MSNs can be used as a drug delivery system to target GA selectively to specific brain areas.
Major to trace element imaging and analysis of iron age glasses using stage scanning in the analytical dual beam microscope (tandem)
Authors: Vicenzi Edward P. , Lam Thomas , Weaver Jamie L. , Herzing Andrew A. , McCloy John S. , Sjöblom Rolf , Pearce Carolyn I.
Published: June 2022

Dark and clear silicate glasses formed during an iron age vitrification event ≈ 1500 years ago at the Broborg hillfort near Uppsala, Sweden have been analyzed using a scanning electron microscope equipped with a micro-X-ray fluorescence (μXRF) spectrometer. Correlated µXRF and electron beam-induced energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) X-ray maps were collected via stage-scanning at constant velocity. This coupled procedure represents a new approach for the cultural heritage community to conduct analytical studies of archaeometric specimens composed of metal, ceramic, or mixed inorganic/organic materials, where major and trace element compositions are registered in space for areas up to the centimeter-length scale at micrometer-scale resolution. Overview images were used to select areas for EDS beam scan maps correlated with multispectral cathodoluminescence (CL) imaging and co-located quantitative EDS and μXRF point analysis. Fe, Ca, Mg, Ti, P, Mn, Zr, Zn, and Y are enriched in the dark glass, while Si, Al, K, Na, Ba, Sr, Rb, and Ga are enriched in the clear glass. Unmelted material is comprised predominately of quartz (SiO2) along with trace apatite (Ca5(PO4)3[Cl,OH]) and zircon (ZrSiO4). Multivariate statistical analysis was used to measure the area fractions of high variance components while lower variance components represented phase mixtures. Differences between calculated melt viscosities for the glass compositions are consistent with field and laboratory observations. Coupled large area EDS and μXRF imaging shows significant promise for informed selection of higher spatial resolution and higher sensitivity follow-up studies, e.g., those performed using synchrotron analysis.

Graphical Abstract
2D and 3D representation of objects in architectural and heritage studies: in search of gaze pattern similarities
Authors: Rusnak Marta
Published: June 2022

The idea of combining an eye tracker and VR goggles has opened up new research perspectives as far as studying cultural heritage is concerned, but has also made it necessary to reinvestigate the validity of more basic eye-tracking research done using flat stimuli. Our intention was to investigate the extent to which the flattening of stimuli in the 2D experiment affects the obtained results. Therefore an experiment was conducted using an eye tracker connected to virtual reality glasses and 3D stimuli, which were a spherical extension of the 2D stimuli used in the 2018 research done using a stationary eye tracker accompanied by a computer screen. The subject of the research was the so-called tunnel church effect, which stems from the belief that medieval builders deliberately lengthened the naves of their cathedrals to enhance the role of the altar. The study compares eye tracking data obtained from viewing three 3D and three 2D models of the same interior with changed proportions: the number of observers, the number of fixations and their average duration, time of looking at individual zones. Although the participants were allowed to look around freely in the VR, most of them still performed about 70–75% fixation in the area that was presented in the flat stimuli in the previous study. We deemed it particularly important to compare the perception of the areas that had been presented in 2D and that had evoked very much or very little interest: the presbytery, vaults, and floors. The results indicate that, although using VR allows for a more realistic and credible research situation, architects, art historians, archaeologists and conservators can, under certain conditions, continue to apply under-screen eye trackers in their research. The paper points out the consequences of simplifying the research scenario, e.g. a significant change in fixation duration. The analysis of the results shows that the data obtained by means of VR are more regular and homogeneous.

Graphical Abstract
Urinary Incontinence Among Elite Track and Field Athletes According to Their Event Specialization: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rodríguez-López Elena Sonsoles , Acevedo-Gómez María Barbaño , Romero-Franco Natalia , Basas-García Ángel , Ramírez-Parenteau Christophe , Calvo-Moreno Sofía Olivia , Fernández-Domínguez Juan Carlos
Published: June 2022

Background

Physical effort in sports practice is an important trigger for urinary incontinence (UI). Among high-impact sports, all track and field events require continuous ground impacts and/or abdominal contractions that increase intra-abdominal pressure and impact on the pelvic floor musculature. However, studies to date have not taken into account the specific sports tasks that elite track and field athletes perform according to the competitive events for which they are training.

Methods

This cross-sectional study describes the prevalence, type, and severity of UI among elite track and field athletes considering their event specialization and training characteristics. A total of 211 female and 128 male elite track and field athletes answered an online questionnaire including anthropometric measures, medical history, training characteristics, and UI symptoms. To determine self-reported UI, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-UI Short-Form (ICIQ-UI-SF) was used. To determine UI type and severity, the incontinence questionnaire and incontinence severity index were used, respectively.

Results

The ICIQ-UI-SF showed that 51.7% of female and 18.8% of male athletes had UI, with stress UI (SUI) being the most frequent type (64.4%) for female and urge UI for male athletes (52.9%). Of athletes who were not identified as having UI according to the questionnaires, 24.6% of female and 13.6% of male athletes experienced urine leakage during training, mainly during jumping. Although training characteristics (experience, volume, and resting) were not related to UI, female athletes specializing in vertical jumps showed significantly lower UI prevalence compared to those specializing in horizontal jumps (χ2 [1] = 4.409, p = 0.040), middle-distance running (χ2 [1] = 4.523, p = 0.033), and sprint/hurdles events (χ2 [1] = 4.113, p = 0.043). These female athletes also displayed the lowest training volume. No differences were shown for males (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Over half of the elite track and field female athletes have self-reported UI, especially SUI, and prevalence is higher when considering urine leakage events during training. Training characteristics and specialization were not related to UI identified by questionnaires, but female athletes specializing in vertical jump events showed the lowest prevalence and training volume. Males showed significantly lower prevalence, without correlation with their specialization. Sport professionals should increase UI detection among elite athletes and design-specific approaches that consider their physical demands to make visible, prevent, or improve pelvic floor dysfunction in this population.
A clinical algorithm to determine target blood pressure in the elderly: evidence and limitations from a clinical perspective
Authors: Shin Jinho , Kim Kwang-il
Published: June 2022

As the elderly population is growing rapidly, management of hypertension in South Korea faces major challenges because the proportion of elderly hypertension patients is also increasing. The characteristics of this population are also much more complex than younger patients. Elderly hypertension is characterized by wide variations in (1) fitness or biological age, (2) white-coat effect, (3) poor functional status or frailty, (4) dependency in activities of daily living or institutionalization, (5) orthostatic hypotension, and (6) multiple comorbidities. All of these should be considered when choosing optimal target blood pressure in individual patients. Recent randomized clinical trials have shown that the benefits of intensive blood pressure control for elderly patients is greater than previously thought. For generalization of these results and implementation of the guidelines based on these studies, defining the clinician’s role for individualization is critically important. For individualized decisions for target blood pressure (BP) in the elderly with hypertension, four components should first be checked. These consist of (1) the minimum requirement of functional status and capability of activities of daily living, (2) lack of harmful evidence by the target BP, (3) absence of white-coat hypertension, and (4) standing systolic BP ≥ 110 mmHg without orthostatic symptoms. Risk of decreased organ perfusion by arterial stenosis should be screened before starting intensive BP control. When the target BP differs among comorbidities, the lowest target BP should be given preference. After starting intensive BP lowering therapy, tolerability should be monitored, and the titration should be based on the mean level of blood pressure by office supplemented by out-of-office BPs. Applications of the clinical algorithms will be useful to achieve more standardized and simplified applications of target BP in the elderly.
Grandparents, family solidarity and the division of housework: evidence from the Italian case
Authors: Albertini Marco , Tosi Marco
Published: June 2022

As a consequence of recent socio-demographic trends and labour market transformations the role of grandparental support has become pivotal in individuals’ and households’ life courses. In Southern European countries the availability of grandparents affects young couples’ labour market participation and fertility decisions. In the present paper, it is asked if the potential availability of social support from the older family generation is associated with more or less inequality in the division of unpaid housework in couples with minor children, in Italy. Using data from the 2016 Family and Social Subjects survey it is shown that while there is not a clear relation between intergenerational face-to-face contacts and the symmetry of the division of household labour, adult children and older (grand)parents coresidence is associated with a more gender-equal sharing of housework within couples, arguably because co-residing grandparents take on the execution of a number of household tasks. The observed effect is comparable to that of hiring a paid housekeeper and higher than hiring a babysitter. Thus, despite one may think that three-generation households are characterized by a culture of traditional norms, our findings indicate that they have a more gender-equal division of housework.
Bayesian latent class analysis produced diagnostic accuracy estimates that were more interpretable than composite reference standards for extrapulmonary tuberculosis tests
Authors: MacLean Emily L. , Kohli Mikashmi , Köppel Lisa , Schiller Ian , Sharma Surendra K. , Pai Madhukar , Denkinger Claudia M. , Dendukuri Nandini
Published: June 2022

Background

Evaluating the accuracy of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB) tests is challenging due to lack of a gold standard. Latent class analysis (LCA), a statistical modeling approach, can adjust for reference tests’ imperfect accuracies to produce less biased test accuracy estimates than those produced by commonly used methods like composite reference standards (CRSs). Our objective is to illustrate how Bayesian LCA can address the problem of an unavailable gold standard and demonstrate how it compares to using CRSs for extrapulmonary TB tests.

Methods

We re-analyzed a dataset of presumptive extrapulmonary TB cases in New Delhi, India, for three forms of extrapulmonary TB. Results were available for culture, smear microscopy, Xpert MTB/RIF, and a non-microbiological test, cytopathology/histopathology, or adenosine deaminase (ADA). A diagram was used to define assumed relationships between observed tests and underlying latent variables in the Bayesian LCA with input from an inter-disciplinary team. We compared the results to estimates obtained from a sequence of CRSs defined by increasing numbers of positive reference tests necessary for positive disease status.

Results

Data were available from 298, 388, and 230 individuals with presumptive TB lymphadenitis, meningitis, and pleuritis, respectively. Using Bayesian LCA, estimates were obtained for accuracy of all tests and for extrapulmonary TB prevalence. Xpert sensitivity neared that of culture for TB lymphadenitis and meningitis but was lower for TB pleuritis, and specificities of all microbiological tests approached 100%. Non-microbiological tests’ sensitivities were high, but specificities were only moderate, preventing disease rule-in. CRSs’ only provided estimates of Xpert and these varied widely per CRS definition. Accuracy of the CRSs also varied by definition, and no CRS was 100% accurate.

Conclusion

Unlike CRSs, Bayesian LCA takes into account known information about test performance resulting in accuracy estimates that are easier to interpret. LCA should receive greater consideration for evaluating extrapulmonary TB diagnostic tests.
The effect of hypocalcemia on motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Emad Engy M. , Elmotaym Amal S. E. , Ghonemy Mo’men A. , Badawy Ahmed E.
Published: June 2022

Background

The disabling nature of Parkinson’s disease (PD) impairs functional mobility and worsens quality of life. Calcium imbalances are thought to have a significant role in the progression of PD.

Objective

To evaluate the relation between calcium deficiency and deterioration of PD motor symptoms.

Methods

A total of 28 idiopathic PD patients were subjected to motor symptoms evaluation using the modified Hoehn–Yahr scale (H–Y), Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Part II and III and Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living Scale (S–E ADL). Total and ionized serum calcium levels were measured for the PD patients and the 30 healthy control subjects.

Results

The level of ionized calcium was significantly lower among PD patients (4.19 mg/dl ± 0.53) than in control subjects (4.8 mg/dl ± 0.35) (p < 0.0001). The PD patients with hypocalcemia showed marked deterioration of motor symptoms and significant impairment of daily life activities when compared to PD patients with normal calcium levels regarding their scores on the modified H–Y scale (p = 0.001), UPDRS-III (p = 0.001), UPDRS-II (p = 0.001), and S–E ADL scale (p = 0.001). Ionized calcium correlated significantly with PD patients’ scores on the modified H–Y scale (p = 0.019), UPDRS-Part II (p = 0.001), UPDRS-Part III (p = 0.001) and S–E ADL scale (p = 0.001). The significant cutoff point of the ionized calcium for detection of the deteriorated PD patients that presented with stages more than grade 2 of the modified H–Y scale was < 3.99 (p = 0.037) with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 95%.

Conclusions

Our findings conclude that calcium deficiency could contribute to the deterioration of PD motor symptoms.
Bruxism and implant: where are we? A systematic review
Authors: Youssef Abboud , Hobeiche Joe , El Zoghbi Amine , Mortada Rola , Salameh Ziad
Published: June 2022

Background

The aim of this Systematic review is to provide more accurate knowledge about the relation between bruxism, Dental implant and the implant-supported prosthesis.

Main body.

Material and methods

A systematic search in Medline (PubMed) and manual search in implant-related journals was performed in February 2021 with time range extending from 2010 to 2021, with no language restriction in order to identify all papers assessing the role of bruxism, as a risk factor for implants and/or implant supported prosthesis.

Results

16 papers were included in the review and split into 3 categories assessing implant complications (n = 10), those reporting prosthetic complications (n = 3) and those reporting both (n = 3). From a biological and mechanical complications point of view, bruxism was related with implant and prosthetic failures.

Conclusion

Bruxism is a risk factor for implants failure, and a risk factor for mechanical complications for implant supported prosthesis as well.
Natural leather based gamma-ray shielding materials enabled by the coordination of well-dispersed Bi3+/Ba2+ ions and RE2O3 coating
Authors: Shen Yue , Zhou Jibo , Han Zheng , Li Hao , Yan Linping , Liao Xuepin , Shi Bi
Published: June 2022

Gamma rays is widely used in modern science and technology, but it may cause health damage to practitioners. In the present study, natural composites based on leather and high-Z elements (atomic number ≥ 56) were fabricated and used as gamma rays shielding materials. These shielding materials were prepared by coating rare earth nanoparticles (Er2O3 or La2O3) onto the surface of natural leather, which was first impregnated with Bi3+ and Ba2+. Results show that the attenuation efficiency of the prepared Er1.31Bi5.46-NL (1.31 and 5.46 mmol cm−3 loaded elements) with thickness of 3.2 mm was 61.57% for incident rays at 121.78 keV (152Eu) and reached 96.4% in the incident of 59.5 keV (241Am), which is comparable to that of 0.25-mm lead plate (54.54 mmol cm−3). In addition, these natural-leather-based shielding materials exhibited low density (approximately 1/10 of Pb), high strength and wearable behaviors.

Graphical abstract
HIV/AIDS patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty are at higher risk of acute renal failure and transfusion and incurred higher cost: a propensity-matched database study
Authors: Sakthivelnathan Vishaal , Senthil Tejas , Varatharaj Sushrruti , Mounasamy Varatharaj , Sambandam Senthil
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in HIV-positive patients has not been well documented in the current literature. Thus, this study aimed to examine the early postoperative outcomes and complications of HIV-positive TKA patients as compared to TKA patients who are HIV-negative patients by utilizing the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database.

Methods

Admissions data for TKA and HIV were analyzed from the NIS database using ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. An extensive array of preoperative and postoperative variables was compared among HIV positive TKA patients and HIV negative TKA patients. An unmatched analysis and a matched analysis using a 1:1 propensity match algorithm were conducted to compare the two groups.

Results

The average age of the HIV-positive group was lower than the HIV-negative group (59.0 vs 66.7, p < 0.001). The HIV-positive group had a smaller percentage of females (38.4% vs 61.5%, p < 0.001) and a lower incidence of tobacco-related disorders than the HIV-negative group (10.3% vs 15.8%, p = 0.032). The HIV-positive group had a longer mean length of stay (3.0 days vs 2.4 days, p < 0.001) and a greater mean total charge incurred (90,780.25 vs 64,801.55, p < 0.001). In the unmatched analysis, the incidence of acute renal failure (6.4% vs 2%, p < 0.001), transfusions (3.9% vs 1.5%, p = 0.004), and periprosthetic joint infection (3% vs 1%, p = 0.007) was higher in HIV positive group. The matched analysis showed a higher incidence of acute renal failure group (6.4% vs 0.5%, p = 0.01) and transfusions (3.9% vs 5%, p = 0.01) in the HIV-positive but a statistically insignificant difference in the rate of periprosthetic joint infection (3% vs 1%, p = 0.153).

Conclusion

HIV/AIDS is associated with an increased incidence of acute renal failure and transfusions, as well as a longer length of stay and higher incurred costs in TKA patients.