bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicopathological and diagnostic imaging findings in a dog with neurocandidiasis
Authors: Royaux Emilie , Corbetta Davide , Czerwiñska Monika , Gosling Fiona , Genain Marie‐Aude
Published: May 2024

Neurocandidiasis is systemic candidiasis with central nervous system involvement. This case report describes the clinical presentation, diagnostic test results, and histopathology of a dog with neurocandidiasis. A 3‐year‐old German shepherd dog was presented for a 3‐day history of abnormal mentation, neck pain, and ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain revealed multifocal, small, round, intra‐axial lesions within the forebrain. Examination of the cerebrospinal fluid revealed severe neutrophilic inflammation. Extensive testing for infectious diseases was negative. The dog was administered immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids. The dog's clinical signs improved transiently but got worse 12 days after starting the treatment. Repeat MRI scan revealed multiple, intra‐axial, target‐like nodular lesions scattered throughout the brain parenchyma. In the temporal muscles, nodules were seen. Cytology of the fine needle aspirates of the nodules in the temporal muscles revealed a neutrophilic inflammation with hyalohyphomycosis. Postmortem examination was compatible with a severe systemic fungal infection. Candida albicans was isolated from the brain, kidney, and heart.
Tradeoffs in access to light and root networks of established host trees for restoration planting of the root hemiparasite Santalum paniculatum
Authors: Thyroff Emily C. , Friday James B. , Idol Travis W. , Szuter Michael A. , Jacobs Douglass F.
Published: May 2024

Restoration of root hemiparasite trees, such as Hawaiʻi's endemic Santalum species (ʻiliahi), may benefit from underplanting in stands of suitable hosts like the nitrogen‐fixing native tree, Acacia koa (koa). At a pasture site on Hawaiʻi Island previously reforested with koa, we underplanted seedlings of the island‐endemic sandalwood species, Santalum paniculatum, to examine the tradeoff between access to an established root network (distance to the nearest koa tree) under variable overstory shading (8.8–90.1% canopy openness range) during regeneration establishment. We hypothesized that there is an optimal parasite–host spacing and canopy openness that balance parasitic resource transfer with light availability. ʻIliahi seedling survival was 96% with no survival treatment differences. ‘Iliahi seedling growth was positively related to canopy openness but negatively related to the distance to the nearest koa tree, and the slope of these relationships increased over time. Leaf photosynthetic light compensation points, light saturation points, and stomatal density mostly followed similar trends as growth. These results demonstrate that ‘iliahi can be successfully underplanted in an established koa stand, which benefits ‘iliahi plantings and contributes to diversifying initial restoration and reforestation plantings. There appears to be a significant tradeoff in planting distance between benefits from and competition with the host; however, the improvement in growth with increased canopy openness appeared to be much greater than the effect of planting distance. Underplanting into an established host stand with sufficient canopy openness can help restore functionally compatible and abundant ‘iliahi regeneration into forests.
A CORPUS‐DRIVEN STUDY OF THE CORRELATION BETWEEN THE SYNTACTIC COMBINATION STRENGTH AND THE SEMANTIC CONTRIBUTION IN THE ENGLISH “V‐TO‐V” CONSTRUCTION
Authors: Zhang Yalin , He Qingshun
Published: May 2024

This paper conducted a corpus‐driven study on the syntactic and semantic features of the first verb and the to‐infinitive in the “V‐to‐V” construction. It was found that the syntactic combination strength of the “V‐to‐V” construction and the semantic contribution of the first verb are in general negatively correlated. The “V‐to‐V” construction can, therefore, be classified into three types: (1) Hypotactic clause complex of expansion, where the two verbs in the “V‐to‐V” construction construe the two processes, with weak syntactic combination and high semantic contribution of the first verb; (2) Single verbal group, where the two verbs construe one process with the first verb being auxiliary, with strong syntactic combination and low semantic contribution of the first verb; (3) Hypotactic clause complex of projection, where the two verbs construe two processes, with flexible syntactic combination and high semantic contribution of the first verb. Such correlation can thus form a cline from hypotactic clause complex of expansion through hypotactic clause complex of projection to single verbal groups.
Opportunities to improve feedback to reduce blood component wastage: Results of a national scheme evaluation
Authors: Staples Sophie , Evans Hayley , Caulfield Jill , Bend Matthew , Foy Robbie , Murphy Michael F. , Stanworth Simon J.
Published: May 2024

Background

Blood components are costly and scarce. The Blood Stocks Management Scheme (BSMS) was established in the United Kingdom (UK) to support hospital transfusion services and national blood services through collection, analysis, and monthly feedback of data on blood component inventory and wastage management. There is a growing evidence base on how best to deliver feedback for quality improvement. We assessed the quality and utility of the monthly BSMS component reports.

Methods

We assessed the content of BSMS reports issued in March 2023 against established criteria for effective feedback. Two researchers independently rated whether criteria spanning the five domains of goal setting, data collection, feedback content, feedback display and feedback delivery were fully, partially or not met. Disagreements were resolved through discussion. We conducted an online questionnaire survey of recipients of BSMS reports during March 2023 to assess their use of reports and seek suggestions for improvement.

Results

Five out of 20 criteria for effective feedback were fully met. Areas for improvement included placing more emphasis in the feedback on positive change, linking data and summary messages, and including specific suggestions for action. Respondents highlighted the value of benchmarked comparisons with other hospital transfusion services.

Conclusion

There is scope for enhancing the effectiveness and utility of BSMS feedback reports and hence reducing wastage of blood components. This methodology for evaluation of feedback could be utilized to improve other areas of transfusion practice.
Salmonella Typhimurium caused an unprecedentedly large foodborne outbreak in Finland in 2021
Authors: Lehti Satu‐Mari , Andersen Ole , Leppäaho‐Lakka Jaana , Suominen Eija , Vainio Anni , Matsinen Maire , Kuronen Henry , Rimhanen‐Finne Ruska
Published: May 2024

Aims

Salmonella infections are significant causes of foodborne outbreaks in the European Union. This study investigates a sudden increase in gastroenteritis patients in the hospital district of Central Finland in June 2021. The primary aim was to study the outbreak's magnitude and source of the outbreak.

Methods and Results

Epidemiological, microbiological, environmental and traceback investigations were conducted. Over 700 persons fell ill during the outbreak caused by Salmonella Typhimurium associated with a daycare lunch. Similar S. Typhimurium was found in the patients and a vegetable mix containing iceberg lettuce, cucumber and peas served during lunch. The traceback investigation revealed that the batch information of vegetables from the wholesaler was not complete. The wholesaler had received quality complaints about the iceberg lettuce from the central kitchen. The manufacturer did not test the suspected batch for Salmonella since the production plant had given a certificate declaring it Salmonella negative.

Conclusions

The most suspect ingredient was one batch of iceberg lettuce due to quality complaints. The lettuce had not been served in two daycare centres without cases. We recommend that in order to enable thorough microbiological investigation, institutional kitchens store the food samples separately as part of the internal quality control and that food items should always be tested when Salmonella contamination in an outbreak is suspected.
Employers’ Demand for Built Environment Professionals’ Employability Skills in Nigeria: Content Analysis of Job Advertisements
Authors: Ameh John Oko , Chukwujekwu Camilus Ebuka
Published: May 2024

The proportion of unemployed professionals in the built environment in Nigeria is alarming; yet there is an acute shortfall in skilled manpower in the construction industry, as employers continue to face recruitment dilemma due to paucity of applicants with the requisite employability-characteristics. This study, therefore, examines the job and person specifications required in job advertisements for professionals in the built environment. Conceptual content analysis was used to extract data from 500 job advertisements using quota sampling technique from a heterogeneous population, following which descriptive statistical methods were adopted for analysis. The study reveals the following in the built environment in Nigeria: Architects, Estate Surveyors and Quantity Surveyors are dominant job titles in advertisement for professionals; Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja are the major hubs for employment; job related employability characteristics include possession of B.Sc. degree/HND, with 3-5 years post qualification work experience, but without reference made to classification of degree or diploma; and dominant personal attributes required of applicants by employers are reliability, confidence and good attitude; Estate Management profession is highly sought after by employers. Therefore, to enhance graduates’ employability, the study recommends mandatory one-year on-the-job industry experience as part of hard skill requirements; a balance in hard and soft skills, and increased budgetary allocation for education and further training of graduates in the discipline in high demand by employers.
Factors Influencing Rental and Capital Values of Residential Investment Property in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Bello Nurudeen Akinsola , Adepoju Adetoye Sulaiman , Durosinmi Wasiu Ayobami
Published: May 2024

There are various purposes the rental or capital values of residential investment property could be sought. However, most previous studies on factors influencing value of residential investment property are expressed in a general term; not specifically indicating whether rental or capital value. This may mislead investors in making the wrong investment decision. Using aggregation and disaggregation approach, this study examined the general and specific factors determining the rental and capital values of residential investment property in Abuja, Nigeria with a view to providing information that could guide the investment decisions. With the use of a structured questionnaire, cross sectional survey was adopted to obtain the perceptual opinion from 136 estate surveying and valuation firms in the study area. Data was analyzed with descriptive statistics of Relative Important Index (RII). The findings reveal a variation in the outcome of general factors and specific factors and that in specific term, factors influencing the capital value are significantly more in quantity and rating than the ones influencing the rental value. Out of the 23 (13 for rental and 10 for capital value) general determining factors, 11 (3 for rental and 8 for capital value) are actually significant. Average number of rooms; change in maintenance cost/taxes and the neighbourhood characteristics mainly influence the rental value of residential property while cost of construction; type of structure/quality of facilities; potential of rental growth; title and size of the land; neighbourhood attributes; inflation impact; size and structural characteristics and state of supply in property market are the main factors influencing the capital value. This noted variation is an indication for property investment stakeholders to be cautious and specific in the selection of the most appropriate determining factors for their investment objective to avoid investment decision errors.
Exploring Spatial Pattern of Residential Property Value around Cultural Heritage Sites in Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Adebara Oyinloluwa B. , Adebara Temitope M. , Badiora Adewumi I. , Ojo Deborah B.
Published: May 2024

Cities in both developed and developing economies are characterised by various cultural heritage sites. Such sites can impact the value of residential properties around them either positively or negatively. In view of this, this study explores the spatial pattern of residential property values around cultural heritage sites in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. One (1) cultural heritage site each was purposively selected in the core and sub-urban areas of Ile-Ife. Furthermore, systematic sampling technique was used to select one of every twenty (20) buildings within different radii (1-300, 301-600 and 601-900 meters) of the selected cultural heritage sites. A total of two hundred and twenty-three (223) buildings were selected. Hence, 223 questionnaires were administered on the residents of the buildings. Interview was also conducted on ten (10) real estate practitioners in the study area to optimally provide answers rental values of residential properties around the cultural heritage sites. The extracted data were analysed using multiple regression and rent differential technique. Findings showed that as distance increases from the cultural heritage sites, the average rental value of residential properties was also on the increase in the core and sub-urban areas of Ile-Ife. It was therefore established that there exists a positive relationship between the distance from cultural heritage sites and rental values of residential properties. The study further revealed that cultural heritage sites had a negative impact on the rental values of proximate residential properties in the study area. The study however concluded that the rental values of residential properties reflect distance to cultural heritage sites. It is recommended that property investors should give adequate attention to location to make accurate and dependable decisions on the supply of residential properties, especially in cities where there are cultural heritage sites.
Real Estate Appraisal in the Aftermath of the Coronavirus Pandemic
Authors: Kauko Tom
Published: May 2024

In February 2020 the coronavirus (COVID-19) begun to roll over the globe. Suddenly, some true resilience leadership – or at least, decisiveness – was needed from individual citizens and businesses. The crisis conditions also forced some sectors and industries to be innovative, in search for solutions. This contribution speculates about the future of real estate appraisal, and the extent it is being affected by the crisis. The implications of the ongoing and future virus crises for real estate appraisal are examined using the concept of risk, and, in doing so, a potential methodological innovation based on subjective risk analysis of real estate investments is argued for. The consequences are likely to fit in the space between the extreme scenarios: that nothing will change, and that all with change. So, we do not believe that the distribution of rental incomes and property values will be the same as before, but we also do not buy the claim of some kind of end of real estate. Instead, what seems plausible is to approach the issue by establishing the risk; that is to say, how the real estate industry is reacting to an inevitable resetting of the businesses of the tenants, based on how adaptable the industry and sector is. The findings of the conceptual analysis highlight the potentially changing context of real estate appraisal in terms of localization of economic and social activity; preferences for distance practices and private sector activities; and implications for investment risk.
COVID-19 Pandemic: The Effects and Prospects in the Construction Industry
Authors: Ogunnusi Mercy , Hamma-adama Mansur , Salman Huda , Kouider Tahar
Published: May 2024

COVID-19, social distancing, self-isolation, quarantine, furlough, palliatives, and many more emerged as the new vocabularies of the entire world, construction industry not excluded. It is precisely a decade from the last pandemic experienced by the human race. However, the most popular disease outbreak called Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) was announced, which hit all the nations of the world within four months and was declared a pandemic in March 2020. This outbreak disrupted businesses around the globe, including built asset procurement and facility management. The United Kingdom, through the Construction Leadership Council, for instance, in responding to this unprecedented situation, published a new Site Operating Procedure (SOP). The effect of this Pandemic in these extraordinary times posed both positive and negative impacts in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Owner and Operator (AECOO) industry. Its effect has brought about innovative and diverse use of technology in an exemplary manner which may change the course of construction even after the extinction of coronavirus. This study explores the effects of COVID-19 on the built asset procurement and potential opportunities for the construction industry through a quantitative means. A survey was carried out on the built asset procurement professionals for the data collection. 71 questionnaires were received from Architects, Building Engineers, Civil/Structural Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Construction / Project Managers and Quantity Surveyors. SPSS 25 software (a social science statistical package) was used for the analysis of the data. The result reveals some challenges in the area of workflow and supply chain disruption, new policy issues, workers’ anxiety and review of COVID-19 vs Force Majeure in standard forms of the construction contract. However, opportunities evolved in the field of modern procurement planning, the necessity for virtual working and unique design considerations. This study is essential to paving the way for the development of additional contingency plans and a new working strategy in a minimised human contact situation caused by the pandemic.
Media Accounts of the Impact of COVID-19 on the Nigerian Real Estate Market
Authors: Oyalowo Basirat
Published: May 2024

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria was documented by pervasive press coverage, with daily reporting on such issues as infection rates, government expenditures on efforts to combat the disease, and non-adherence to public health measures by local celebrities. More recently, the coverage has come to include the pandemic’s effects on the economy, notably in terms of industrial performance and the implications for the livelihoods of Nigerian citizens. This paper presents an analysis of media accounts of the impact of COVID-19 on the country’s real estate industry that sheds light on the issues of concern before the pandemic, lessons about the impact of COVID-19 on the industry captured in national newspaper stories, the integration of long-standing concerns into reports on the impact of the disease, and the short-term implications for the real estate market. Specifically, within the framework of a qualitative research design, a content analysis of the coverage in three online national newspapers was conducted over the period from First February to 30th May 2020, which was segmented into consecutive pre-COVID, pre-lockdown, and lockdown periods. The analysis was performed using Atlas ti.8 software. The results indicated that the impacts of COVID-19 on the Nigerian real estate market have included increases in void rates in the upper-income residential submarket, more defaults on loans, rents, and mortgages on commercial properties, and changes in the demand for traditional office space. It was also found that the coverage of issues related to both COVID-19 and general-interest issues remained fairly constant, except that reports about COVID-19 became more frequent during the lockdown period. The projections in the coverage regarding the immediate future of the real estate sector are varied. Practitioners expected much leaner housing sales, and there were predictions of an upward trend in the co-sharing of spaces and in mortgage defaults.
Influence of the Novel Coronavirus Disease on Nigerian Real Estate Sector and the Way Forward
Authors: Keke Onyinye Vivian , Okafor Johnbosco Ikenna , Sado Raphael Oshiobugie
Published: May 2024

The coronavirus disease outbreak which occurred in 2019 at Wuhan, Hubei Province in China became a pandemic in 2020 such that over 200 countries have been affected and had to lockdown on economic, social and political activities so as to maintain both social and physical distancing to curb the dispersion of the virus. Global economic growth came to an abrupt halt, as a result of the effects of the pandemic on social and economic activities - countries around the world have implemented changes to real estate policies in order to reduce the effects of the lockdown on the citizens who are tenants and, in some cases, landlords. In the United States, many decisions are made at the state and local levels to prohibit eviction of tenants. Many countries are considering legislations that would protect tenants who cannot pay rent for a period of six months. Due to this global lockdown resulting from the pandemic, Nigeria is currently facing financial crisis which has directly/indirectly affected all sectors of human endeavor including the real estate sector of the economy. In all, the usual way of life and work system is changing and some of the upcoming trends will become part of the ‘new normal’ in the Nigerian real estate sector.  The researchers used survey method in obtaining data by distributing questionnaires to respondents. Data collected were collated and analyzed using table, simple percentage and mean. Findings reveal that the outbreak has had an adverse effect on many tenants’ ability to pay rents and have also led to a decrease in investment yield for residential and commercial real estate as a result of the economic "lockdown" in the country. The study suggests that, although all forms of real estate investment produce viable returns, it will be a wise investment decision to capitalize on the agricultural real estate sector during this pandemic as well as the post-COVID era. It also recommends that the Nigerian government should create an enabling environment to encourage investors, by coming up with policies that will help ease the effect of the pandemic on real estate investment.
Precaution against Coronavirus and Housing Neighborhood Standard in Selected Areas of Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Adediran Anthonia Oluwatosin , Mohd Ali Hishamuddin
Published: May 2024

Housing and neighborhood conditions can significantly affect health, safety, and well-being of citizens in a country. The current COVID-19 outbreak and its manner of transmission tests the potential resilience of nations, while revealing various economic, political, and health challenges – whereby housing being one and in fact the basis of them. The most well-planned and maintained housing environments in Nigeria are mostly populated by the rich, more-privileged, and less often the middle-income earners, while the lower-class groups of people reside in unkempt or sub-standard neighborhoods. The objectives of this study are to examine the neighborhood and housing standards in five selected areas of Lagos and to investigate the level of residents’ compliance with the physical/social distancing polices relating to the precautions against COVID-19 spread. Data were gathered through a mixed-method approach, alongside facility surveys and physical observations. A total of 161 copies of questionnaire were administered in the Fola-Agoro, Abule-Ijesha, Bariga, Abule-Oja, and Onike-Iwaya areas – all within the essential part of the city. 152 questionnaires were returned with 143 of them were found valid for generating the required analysis through the use of SPSS software. Features like road networks, drainage systems, infrastructural facilities, commercial properties, and various types of dwelling units exist across these areas. However, findings from the survey analysis indicated poor neighborhood and housing standards that manifested in lack of conducive neighborhood dwelling facilities/conditions like adequate space, proper ventilation, good security, serenity, efficient household services, and a well-planned environment, all affect residents’ operations in the areas. The overall inadequacy of basic amenities affected the residents’ level of adherence to the lockdown policy as the selected areas lacked appreciable neighborhood and housing standards. Hence, it is recommended that related and concerned authorities should provide the basic habitable conditions such as spacious neighborhood, good ventilation, serene environment, efficient neighborhood security and good road networks. This, presumably, will promote comfort among residents’ and enhance their ability to abide by the physical distancing policy towards the prevention of the pandemic spread and indeed any subsequent disease outbreaks capable of being doused by good neighborhood and housing standards.
Optimization of a novel Renealmia ligulata (Zingiberaceae) essential oil extraction method through microwave-assisted hydrodistillation
Authors: Cano Botero José Leonardo , Ospina Balvuena Yeferson , GUTIERREZ JORGE , Sepulveda Nieto María del Pilar , Ríos Vásquez Eunice
Published: May 2024

Renealmia is a tropical plant genus within the Zingiberaceae family. In tropical South America, Renealmia plants are known for their therapeutic uses against bone and muscle pain, colds, and to counteract snake bite symptoms. Despite the biomedical importance of Renealmia metabolites, the components of their essential oils (EO) have been scarcely studied, and a cause thereof is the lack of local efficient, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly EO extraction methods. This work addressed the optimization of an EO extraction method from the aerial parts and rhizomes of Renealmia ligulata plants based on microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD) with an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) pretreatment. Three MAHD extraction variables (radiation power, radiation exposure length, and solvent volume) were studied on their own and in combination using a response surface analysis to determine the value combinations leading to optimal EO yields. The results showed that the best average extraction duration time was 42.5 min, combined with a radiation power of 765 W and a solvent volume 225.9 mL for 30 g of aerial part plant material or 799 W and 145 mL of solvent for 20 g of plant rhizomes. A GC-MS analysis of the obtained R. ligulata EOs revealed that their main component was epi-Eudesmol (28% in plant aerial parts and 13% in rhizomes), which is a molecule of interest considering its reported neuro-protective properties.
Active Vibration Control on a Tire–Wheel Assembly Using Piezoelectric Spatial Modal Filter
Authors: Carvalho Antoine , Billon Kevin , Rodriguez Jonathan , Chesne Simon , Lohr François
Published: May 2024

Vibrations due to tire–road contact in wheeled vehicles induce acoustic discomfort especially beyond 35 km/h. This paper proposes an active control method to reduce the vibration transmission from the tire–road contact to the vehicle through piezoelectric transducers located directly on the wheel spokes. Our approach relies on a double spatial modal filter to physically focus the control energy on the wheel pumping mode while avoiding any spillover phenomena. In addition, a bandpass controller ensures maximum damping on the targeted mode. The proposed control strategy is applied first to the clamped wheel in order to validate the static performance of the spatial controller. Then the wheel is excited through the tire and the efficiency of the controller is evaluated through the measured force passing by the wheel hub. Finally, the tire–wheel assembly (TWA) is placed on an experimental setup recreating the vehicle operating conditions with wheel rotation at different velocities and road excitations. The experimental results confirm the efficiency of the proposed control method and its robustness to the dynamics evolution of the structure in function of the TWA angular velocity.
Effect of Interlayer Machining Interventions on the Geometric and Mechanical Properties of Wire Arc Directed Energy Deposition Parts
Authors: Rashid Asif , Kota Akshar , Boing Denis , Melkote Shreyes N.
Published: May 2024

Wire arc directed energy deposition (Wire Arc DED) has become a popular metal additive manufacturing technique for its capability to print large metal parts at a high deposition rate while being economically efficient. However, the Wire Arc DED process exhibits geometric inaccuracies resulting from the variability in the bead geometry and demonstrates heterogeneity in microstructure and mechanical properties. This study investigates the use of tailored periodic machining interventions during the Wire Arc DED process to address these shortcomings. The as-built geometry and surface finish, microstructure, and microhardness of multilayer wall structures produced with and without machining interventions carried out at different temperatures are compared. The machining interventions are found to reduce the uncertainty in bead geometry evolution and significantly improve the surface roughness of the as-built walls, thus reducing the need for further postprocessing of the wall surfaces. Although the microstructure constituents of the as-built wall structures with and without machining interventions are similar, the machining interventions result in finer grains in the interior of the part. Machining interventions are found to yield a statistically significant increase in microhardness, indicating increased strength compared to Wire Arc DED alone. In addition, the spread of the microhardness distribution is reduced in Hybrid Wire Arc DED, indicating improved homogeneity of the grain size distribution compared to Wire Arc DED alone. The study shows that the proposed hybrid manufacturing technique has the potential to control and improve the geometric and mechanical properties of additively manufactured metal components.
Sport Management Research Productivity and Impact for Ranking Considerations
Authors: Seifried Chad , Martinez J. Michael , Qian Yizhou , Zvosec Claire , Svensson Per G. , Soebbing Brian P. , J.A. Agyemang Kwame
Published: May 2024

The present essay aims to promote further dialogue within the sport management community about research productivity and impact by outlining various considerations that should take place within any potential ranking attempt. Some may question why examining research production and impact matters to sport management education, but the mission of many institutions of higher education is not exclusively centered on teaching and training the next generation of leaders. In many instances, sport management programs and faculty are collectively compelled by their host institution to develop theory and search for answers to important questions that can shape future sport management practices, including classroom activities and materials. In the present essay, a rationale is provided for why sport management programs and individual faculty should be interested in developing their own tailored research output and impact rankings. Next, a list of research product variables is offered for consideration, and a conversation is provided about their need and impact with respect to the uniqueness of sport management—a multi-interdisciplinary field. Finally, recommendations for the weighing of such variables to tailor an approach best suited to programs based on college or department home, faculty appointment/workload, and faculty-to-student ratio are submitted.
Nanobody pharmacology
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: May 2024

Antibody fragments can act as pharmacological tools to modulate the functions of G protein–coupled receptors.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
two-component system LadS/PA0034 regulates macrophage phagocytosis via fimbrial protein cupA1
Authors: Guo Xiaolong , Yu Hua , Xiong Junzhi , Dai Qian , Li Yuanyuan , Zhang Wei , Liao Xiping , He Xiaomei , Zhou Hongli , Zhang Kebin
Published: May 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is one of the most common nosocomial pathogens worldwide, known for its virulence, drug resistance, and elaborate sensor-response network. The primary challenge encountered by pathogens during the initial stages of infection is the immune clearance arising from the host. The resident macrophages of barrier organs serve as the frontline defense against these pathogens. Central to our understanding is the mechanism by which bacteria modify their behavior to circumvent macrophage-mediated clearance, ensuring their persistence and colonization. To successfully evade macrophage-mediated phagocytosis, bacteria must possess an adaptive response mechanism. Two-component systems provide bacteria the agility to navigate diverse environmental challenges, translating external stimuli into cellular adaptive responses. Here, we report that the well-documented histidine kinase, LadS, coupled to a cognate two-component response regulator, PA0034, governs the expression of a vital adhesin called chaperone-usher pathway pilus cupA. The LadS/PA0034 system is susceptible to interference from the reactive oxygen species likely to be produced by macrophages and further lead to a poor adhesive phenotype with scantily cupA pilus, impairing the phagocytosis efficiency of macrophages during acute infection. This dynamic underscores the intriguing interplay: as macrophages deploy reactive oxygen species to combat bacterial invasion, the bacteria recalibrate their exterior to elude these defenses.

IMPORTANCE

The notoriety of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is underscored by its virulence, drug resistance, and elaborate sensor-response network. Yet, the mechanisms by which
P. aeruginosa
maneuvers to escape phagocytosis during acute infections remain elusive. This study pinpoints a two-component response regulator, PA0034, coupled with the histidine kinase LadS, and responds to macrophage-derived reactive oxygen species. The macrophage-derived reactive oxygen species can impair the LadS/PA0034 system, resulting in reduced expression of cupA pilus in the exterior of
P. aeruginosa
. Since the cupA pilus is an important adhesin of
P. aeruginosa
, its deficiency reduces bacterial adhesion and changes their behavior to adopt a planktonic lifestyle, subsequently inhibiting the phagocytosis of macrophages by interfering with bacterial adhesion. Briefly, reactive oxygen species may act as environmental cues for the LadS/PA0034 system. Upon recognition,
P. aeruginosa
may transition to a poorly adhesive state, efficiently avoiding engulfment by macrophages.
Phenotypic characterization of cryptic species in the fungal pathogen
Histoplasma
Authors: Sepúlveda Victoria E. , Rader Jonathan A. , Li Jingbaoyi (Janet) , Goldman William E. , Matute Daniel R.
Published: May 2024

Histoplasmosis is an endemic mycosis that often presents as a respiratory infection in immunocompromised patients. Hundreds of thousands of new infections are reported annually around the world. The etiological agent of the disease,
Histoplasma,
is a dimorphic fungus commonly found in the soil where it grows as mycelia. Humans can become infected by
Histoplasma
through inhalation of its spores (conidia) or mycelial particles. The fungi transition into the yeast phase in the lungs at 37°C. Once in the lungs, yeast cells reside and proliferate inside alveolar macrophages. Genomic work has revealed that
Histoplasma
is composed of at least five cryptic phylogenetic species that differ genetically. Three of those lineages have received new names. Here, we evaluated multiple phenotypic characteristics (colony morphology, secreted proteolytic activity, yeast size, and growth rate) of strains from five of the phylogenetic species of
Histoplasma
to identify phenotypic traits that differentiate between these species:
Histoplasma capsulatum sensu stricto
,
Histoplasma ohiense
,
Histoplasma mississippiense
,
Histoplasma suramericanum
, and an African lineage. We report diagnostic traits for three species. The other two species can be identified by a combination of traits. Our results suggest that (i) there are significant phenotypic differences among the cryptic species of
Histoplasma
and (ii) those differences can be used to positively distinguish those species in a clinical setting and for further study of the evolution of this fungal pathogen.

IMPORTANCE

Identifying species boundaries is a critical component of evolutionary biology. Genome sequencing and the use of molecular markers have advanced our understanding of the evolutionary history of fungal pathogens, including
Histoplasma
, and have allowed for the identification of new species. This is especially important in organisms where morphological characteristics have not been detected. In this study, we revised the taxonomic status of the four named species of the genus
Histoplasma, H. capsulatum sensu stricto
(
ss
),
H. ohiense
,
H. mississippiense
, and
H. suramericanum,
and propose the use of species-specific phenotypic traits to aid their identification when genome sequencing is not available. These results have implications not only for evolutionary study of
Histoplasma
but also for clinicians, as the
Histoplasma
species could determine the outcome of disease and treatment needed.
Patient preferences for prophylactic regimens requiring regular injections in children and adolescents: a systematic review and thematic analysis
Authors: Ilievski Jana , Mirams Olivia , Trowman Rebecca , Barr Renae K , Manning Laurens
Published: May 2024

Background

At present, limited literature exists exploring patient preferences for prophylactic treatment of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Given low treatment completion rates to this treatment in Australia, where the burden of disease predominantly affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, an improved understanding of factors driving patient preference is required to improve outcomes. Due to limited available literature, this review sought to explore treatment preferences for conditions for which the findings might be generalisable to the ARF/RHD context.

Objective

Explore treatment preferences of patients, parents/caregivers and healthcare providers towards regular injection regimens in paediatric and adolescent populations for any chronic condition. Findings will be applied to the development of benzathine penicillin G (BPG) prophylactic regimens that are informed by treatment preferences of patients and their caregivers. This in turn should contribute to optimisation of successful BPG delivery.

Methods

A systematic review of databases (Medline, Embase and Global Health) was conducted using a search strategy developed with expert librarian input. Studies were selected using a two-stage process: (1) title and abstract screen and (2) full text review. Data were extracted using a reviewer-developed template and appraised using the JBI Critical Appraisal tool. Data were synthesised according to a thematic analytical framework.

Results

1725 papers were identified by the database search, conducted between 12 February 2022 and 8 April 2022, and 25 were included in the review. Line-by-line coding to search for concepts generated 20 descriptive themes. From these, five overarching analytical themes were derived inductively: (1) ease of use, (2) tolerability of injection, (3) impact on daily life, (4) patient/caregiver agency and (5) home/healthcare interface.

Conclusions

The findings of this review may be used to inform the development of preference-led regular injection regimens for paediatric and adolescent patient cohorts—specifically for BPG administration in ARF/RHD secondary prophylaxis.

Trial registration number

Patient, parent and health personnel preferences towards regular injection regimes in paediatric and adolescent populations—a protocol for a systematic review. PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021284375. Available from:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021284375.
Patterns and organ treatment response of Erdheim-Chester disease with cardiac involvement
Authors: Miao Hui-lei , Chang Long , Lin He , Liu Zheng-zheng , Wu Wei , Niu Na , Cao Xin‑xin
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the heart response of Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) through continuous follow-up within our large cohort, for which there is a lack of understanding.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical data from patients with ECD with cardiac involvement diagnosed at our centre between January 2010 and August 2023. We assessed the heart response by integrating pericardial effusion and metabolic responses.

Results

A total of 40 patients were included, with a median age of 51.5 years (range: 29–66) and aBRAFV600Emutation rate of 56%. The most common imaging manifestations observed were pericardial effusion (73%), right atrium (70%) and right atrioventricular sulcus infiltration (58%). Among 21 evaluable patients, 18 (86%) achieved a heart response including 5 (24%) complete response (CR) and 13 (62%) partial response (PR). The CR rate of pericardial effusion response was 33%, while the PR rate was 56%. Regarding the cardiac mass response, 33% of patients showed PR. For cardiac metabolic response, 32% and 53% of patients achieved complete and partial metabolic response, respectively. There was a correlation between pericardial effusion response and cardiac metabolic response (r=0.73 (95% CI 0.12 to 0.83), p<0.001). The median follow-up was 50.2 months (range: 1.0–102.8 months). The estimated 5-year overall survival was 78.9%. The median progression-free survival was 59.4 months (95% CI 26.2 to 92.7 months). Patients who receivedBRAFinhibitors achieved better heart response (p=0.037) regardless of treatment lines.

Conclusion

We pioneered the evaluation of heart response of ECD considering both pericardial effusion and cardiac metabolic response within our cohort, revealing a correlation between these two indicators.BRAFinhibitors may improve heart response, regardless of the treatment lines.
Sequence of androgen receptor-targeted vaccination with androgen deprivation therapy affects anti-prostate tumor efficacy
Authors: Muralidhar Anusha , Gamat-Huber Melissa , Vakkalanka Sita , McNeel Douglas G
Published: May 2024

Rationale

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the primary treatment for recurrent and metastatic prostate cancer. In addition to direct antitumor effects, ADT has immunomodulatory effects such as promoting T-cell infiltration and enhancing antigen processing/presentation. Previous studies in our laboratory have demonstrated that ADT also leads to increased expression of the androgen receptor (AR) and increased recognition of prostate tumor cells by AR-specific CD8+T cells. We have also demonstrated that ADT combined with a DNA vaccine encoding the AR significantly slowed tumor growth and improved the survival of prostate tumor-bearing mice. The current study aimed to investigate the impact of the timing and sequencing of ADT with vaccination on the tumor immune microenvironment in murine prostate cancer models to further increase the antitumor efficacy of vaccines.

Methods

Male FVB mice implanted with Myc-CaP tumor cells, or male C57BL/6 mice implanted with TRAMP-C1 prostate tumor cells, were treated with a DNA vaccine encoding AR (pTVG-AR) and ADT. The sequence of administration was evaluated for its effect on tumor growth, and tumor-infiltrating immune populations were characterized.

Results

Vaccination prior to ADT (pTVG-AR → ADT) significantly enhanced antitumor responses and survival. This was associated with increased tumor infiltration by CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, including AR-specific CD8+T cells. Depletion of CD8+T cells prior to ADT significantly worsened overall survival. Following ADT treatment, however, Gr1+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) increased, and this was associated with fewer infiltrating T cells and reduced tumor growth. Inhibiting Gr1+MDSCs recruitment, either by using a CXCR2 antagonist or by cycling androgen deprivation with testosterone replacement, improved antitumor responses and overall survival.

Conclusion

Vaccination prior to ADT significantly improved antitumor responses, mediated in part by increased infiltration of CD8+T cells following ADT. Targeting MDSC recruitment following ADT further enhanced antitumor responses. These findings suggest logical directions for future clinical trials to improve the efficacy of prostate cancer vaccines.
Developing a membrane-proximal CD33-targeting CAR T cell
Authors: Freeman Ruby , Shahid Sanam , Khan Abdul G , Mathew Serena C , Souness Sydney , Burns Erin R , Um Jasmine S , Tanaka Kento , Cai Winson , Yoo Sarah , Dunbar Andrew , Park Young , McAvoy Devin , Hosszu Kinga K , Levine Ross L , Boelens Jaap Jan , Lorenz Ivo C , Brentjens Renier J , Daniyan Anthony F
Published: May 2024

Background

CD33 is a tractable target in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, but clinical success is lacking.

Methods

We developed 3P14HLh28Z, a novel CD33-directed CD28/CD3Z-based CAR T cell derived from a high-affinity binder obtained through membrane-proximal fragment immunization in humanized mice.

Results

We found that immunization exclusively with the membrane-proximal domain of CD33 is necessary for identification of membrane-proximal binders in humanized mice. Compared with clinically validated lintuzumab-based CAR T cells targeting distal CD33 epitopes, 3P14HLh28Z showed enhanced in vitro functionality as well as superior tumor control and increased overall survival in both low antigen density and clinically relevant patient-derived xenograft models. Increased activation and enhanced polyfunctionality led to enhanced efficacy.

Conclusions

Showing for the first time that a membrane-proximal CAR is superior to a membrane-distal one in the setting of CD33 targeting, our results demonstrate the rationale for targeting membrane-proximal epitopes with high-affinity binders. We also demonstrate the importance of optimizing CAR T cells for functionality in settings of both low antigen density and clinically relevant patient-derived models.
Comparison of in-shoe plantar pressure between Korean combat boots and running shoes
Authors: Yoon Young Sik , An D H , Lee Y J , Lee D Y , Kyung M G
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Combat boots are special shoes designed for soldiers to wear during activities in rough terrain, such as long marches or military training. Combat boots have been known to cause high plantar pressure and increase the injury rate of the lower extremities. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the difference in in-shoe plantar pressure between Korean combat boots and running shoes. We hypothesised that the newest Korean combat boots would have comparable plantar pressure distribution with running shoes.

Methods

We prospectively recruited 30 asymptomatic male participants, who are candidates for military services, from the local area. Two types of shoes (the newly developed Korean combat boots and running shoes) were examined. Pedobarographic measurements were collected using the pedar-X in-shoe pressure measurement system. Peak pressure (PP), pressure time integral (PTI), contact area and contact time were analysed.

Results

Both PP and PTI at the region of central and lateral forefeet (FF) were significantly higher in combat boots. The contact area of combat boots was significantly lower at the region of the hallux, second–fifth toes, medial FF, central FF and midfoot. Contact time at the region of central FF and medial heel was significantly higher in combat boots.

Conclusions

Understanding the plantar pressure distribution of combat boots can be helpful for developing combat boots and preventing injury. Based on the results of our study, the next-generation Korean combat boots should be developed to increase contact area and distribute impulse under the head of the metatarsal bone.