bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1-Deoxysphingolipids Tempt Autophagy Resulting in Lysosomal Lipid Substrate Accumulation: Tracing the Impact of 1-Deoxysphingolipids on Ultra-Structural Level using a Novel Click-Chemistry Detection
Authors: Lamberz Christian , Hesse Marina , Kirfel Gregor
Published: January 2021

Sphingolipids (SLs) are pivotal components of biological membranes essentially contributing to their physiological functions. 1-deoxysphingolipids (deoxySLs), an atypical cytotoxic acting sub-class of SLs, is relevant for cellular energy homeostasis and is known to be connected to neurodegenerative disorders including diabetic neuropathy and hereditary sensory neuropathy type 1 (HSAN1). High levels of deoxySLs affect lipid membrane integrity in artificial liposomes. Accordingly, recent reports questioned the impact of deoxySLs on physiological lipid membrane and organelle functions leading to impaired cellular energy homeostasis.

However, DeoxySL-related structural effects on cell membranes resulting in organelle dysfunction are still obscure. To illuminate disease-relevant sub-cellular targets of deoxySLs, we traced alkyne-containing 1-deoxysphinganine (alkyne-DOXSA) and resulting metabolites on ultra-structural level using a new labeling approach for electron microscopy (EM) termed “Golden-Click-Method” (GCM). To complement high-resolution analysis with membrane dynamics, selected intracellular compartments were traced using fluorescent live dyes.

Our results conclusively linked accumulating cytotoxic deoxySLs with mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) damage triggering Autophagy of mitochondria and membrane cisterna of the ER. The induced autophagic flux ultimately leads to accumulating deoxySL containing intra-lysosomal lipid crystals. Lysosomal lipid substrate accumulation impaired physiological lysosome functions and caused cellular starvation. Lysosomal exocytosis appeared as a mechanism for cellular clearance of cytotoxic deoxySLs. In sum, our data define new ultra-structural targets of deoxySLs and link membrane damage to autophagy and abnormal lysosomal lipid accumulation. These insights may support new conclusions about diabetes type 2 and HSNA1 related tissue damage.
NKCC1 modulates microglial phenotype, cerebral inflammatory responses and brain injury in a cell-autonomous manner
Authors: Tóth Krisztina , Lénárt Nikolett , Berki Péter , Fekete Rebeka , Szabadits Eszter , Pósfai Balázs , Cserép Csaba , Alatshan Ahmad , Benkő Szilvia , Kiss Dániel , Hübner Christian A. , Gulyás Attila , Kaila Kai , Környei Zsuzsanna , Dénes Ádám
Published: January 2021

The NKCC1 ion transporter contributes to the pathophysiology of common neurological disorders, but its function in microglia, the main inflammatory cells of the brain, has remained unclear to date. Therefore, we generated a novel transgenic mouse line in which microglial NKCC1 was deleted. We show that microglial NKCC1 shapes both baseline and reactive microglia morphology, process recruitment to the site of injury, and adaptation to osmotic stress in a cell-autonomous manner via regulating membrane potential and chloride fluxes. In addition, microglial NKCC1 deficiency results in increased expression of the D subunit of volume regulated anion channel (VRAC), NLRP3 inflammasome priming and production of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), rendering microglia prone to exaggerated inflammatory responses. In line with this, central (intracortical) administration of the NKCC1 blocker, bumetanide, potentiated intracortical lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokine levels, whereas systemic bumetanide application decreased inflammation in the brain. Microglial NKCC1 KO animals exposed to experimental stroke showed significantly increased brain injury, inflammation, cerebral edema and worse neurological outcome. Thus, NKCC1 emerges as an important player in controlling microglial ion homeostasis and inflammatory responses through which microglia modulate brain injury. The contribution of microglia to central NKCC1 actions is likely to be relevant for common neurological disorders.
The effects of long-term exercise training on the neural control of walking
Authors: Yaserifar Morteza , Fallah Mohammadi Ziya , Esmaiel Hosseininejad Sayed , Paeen Afrakoti Iman Esmaili , Meijer Kenneth , Boonstra Tjeerd W.
Published: January 2021

How does long-term training modify the neural control of walking? Here we investigate changes in kinematics and muscle synergies of the lower extremities in 10 soccer players and 10 non-athletes while they walked with eyes open or closed either overground or on a treadmill. Electromyography (EMG) was acquired from eight muscles of the right leg and foot switch data were recorded to extract temporal gait parameters. Muscle synergies were extracted using non-negative matrix factorisation for each participant and condition separately and were then grouped using k-means clustering. We found that both the cycle and stance duration were longer during treadmill walking compared to overground walking, whereas the swing phase was longer during the eyes-open compare to the eyes-closed condition. On average, more synergies were expressed in the athlete compared to the non-athlete group and during treadmill compared to overground walking. We found that synergy 2 involved in ankle plantarflexion was more often activated in athletes than in non-athletes. We did not find statistical group differences for the synergy metrics but several differences were observed between conditions: peak activation of synergy 5 (VM and VL muscles) increased during overground walking compared to treadmill walking. In addition, reduced activation of synergy 3 (TA muscle) and synergy 4 was observed during eyes-closed compared to eyes-open walking. These findings suggest that during walking long-term training results in greater flexibility of muscle coordination by recruiting additional synergies, but we found no evidence that long-term training affects the activation patterns of these synergies.
Ankyrin-R regulates fast-spiking interneuron excitability through perineuronal nets and Kv3.1b K+channels
Authors: Stevens Sharon R. , Longley Colleen M. , Ogawa Yuki , Teliska Lindsay H. , Arumanayagam Anithachristy S. , Nair Supna , Oses-Prieto Juan A. , Burlingame Alma L. , Cykowski Matthew D. , Xue Mingshan , Rasband Matthew N.
Published: January 2021

Neuronal ankyrins cluster and link membrane proteins to the actin and spectrin-based cytoskeleton. Among the three vertebrate ankyrins, little is known about neuronal Ankyrin-R (AnkR). We report AnkR is highly enriched in Pv+fast-spiking interneurons in mouse and human. We identify AnkR-associated protein complexes including cytoskeletal proteins, cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), and perineuronal nets (PNNs). We show that loss of AnkR from forebrain interneurons reduces and disrupts PNNs, decreases anxiety-like behaviors, and changes the intrinsic excitability and firing properties of Pv+fast-spiking interneurons. These changes are accompanied by a dramatic reduction in Kv3.1b K+channels. We identify a novel AnkR-binding motif in Kv3.1b, and show that AnkR is both necessary and sufficient for Kv3.1b membrane localization in interneurons and at nodes of Ranvier. Thus, AnkR regulates Pv+fast-spiking interneuron function by organizing ion channels, CAMs, and PNNs, and linking these to the underlyingβ1 spectrin-based cytoskeleton.
Nef dimerization defect abrogates HIV viremia and associated immune dysregulation in the Bone Marrow-Liver-Thymus-Spleen (BLTS) humanized mouse model
Authors: Biradar Shivkumar , Agarwal Yash , Das Antu , Shu Sherry T. , Samal Jasmine , Ho Sara , Beatty Cole , Castronova Isabella , Mailliard Robbie B. , Smithgall Thomas E. , Bility Moses T.
Published: January 2021

Loss of function mutations in the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) negative factor (Nef) gene are associated with reduced viremia, robust T cell immune responses, and delayed acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) progression in humans.In vitrostudies have shown that mutations in the Nef dimerization interface significantly attenuate viral replication and impair host defense. However,in vivo, mechanistic studies on the role of Nef dimerization in HIV infection are lacking. Humanized rodents with human immune cells are robust platforms for investigating the interactions between HIV and the human immune system. The bone marrow-liver-thymus-spleen (BLTS) humanized mouse model carries human immune cells and lymphoid tissues that facilitate anti-viral immune responses. Here, we employed the BLTS-humanized mouse model to demonstrate that preventing Nef dimerization abrogates HIV viremia and the associated immune dysregulation. This suggests that Nef dimerization may be a therapeutic target for future HIV cure strategies.
An exploratory study on the role of the stiffness of breast cancer cells in their detachment from spheroids and migration in 3D collagen matrices
Authors: Higgins Ghodeejah , Kim Jessica E. , Ferruzzi Jacopo , Abdalrahman Tamer , Franz Thomas , Zaman Muhammad H.
Published: January 2021

Background

Tumour-cell detachment is a critical early event in the metastatic cascade. However, the role of the cell’s mechanical properties in detachment and migration is not well understood. This exploratory study aimed to assess how intracellular stiffness changes these processes.

Methods

MDA-MB-231 cells were embedded as 10,000-cell spheroids in 2 and 4 mg/ml collagen matrices. Intracellular stiffness was assessed with mitochondria tracking microrheology of cells that migrated distances equivalent to four and six times the cell diameter (dC) from the spheroid and compared to cells at the spheroid surface (0dC), representing medium, high and no migration, respectively.

Results and discussion

The mitochondrial mean square displacement and intracellular stiffness decreased during detachment and migration for both collagen concentrations (i.e. rigidities). The mean square displacement of 4dCand 6dCcells was similar, whereas cell stiffness was lower for 4dCthan for 6dCcells. With increasing matrix rigidity, the intracellular stiffness decreased for 0dCcells and did not change for 4dCand 6dCcells. It is proposed that decreased cell stiffness drives detachment and migration and increased matrix rigidity physically hinders migration, and cells need to become softer or remodel the environment to migrate. The independence of the stiffness of migrated cells from matrix rigidity suggests that cells remodel their environment through matrix proteins cleavage to migrate.

Conclusions

The study revealed the collective effects of enhanced migratory conditions and increased matrix rigidity on the mechanical properties of the cells. The expression of matrix metalloproteinases and transforming growth factor β and the role of cell volume on detachment and migration in matrices with varying pore sizes are proposed targets for further studies on metastatic cancer cells.
In vivocalcium imaging of CA3 pyramidal neuron populations in adult mouse hippocampus
Authors: Schoenfeld Gwendolin , Carta Stefano , Rupprecht Peter , Ayaz Aslı , Helmchen Fritjof
Published: January 2021

Neuronal population activity in the hippocampal CA3 subfield is implicated in cognitive brain functions such as memory processing and spatial navigation. However, because of its deep location in the brain, the CA3 area has been difficult to target with modern calcium imaging approaches. Here, we achieved chronic two-photon calcium imaging of CA3 pyramidal neurons with the red fluorescent calcium indicator R-CaMP1.07 in anesthetized and awake mice. We characterize CA3 neuronal activity at both the single-cell and population level and assess its stability across multiple imaging days. During both anesthesia and wakefulness, nearly all CA3 pyramidal neurons displayed calcium transients. Most of the calcium transients were consistent with a high incidence of bursts of action potentials, based on calibration measurements using simultaneous juxtacellular recordings and calcium imaging. In awake mice, we found state-dependent differences with striking large and prolonged calcium transients during locomotion. We estimate that trains of >30 action potentials over 3 s underlie these salient events. Their abundance in particular subsets of neurons was relatively stable across days. At the population level, we found that coactivity within the CA3 network was above chance level and that co-active neuron pairs maintained their correlated activity over days. Our results corroborate the notion of state-dependent spatiotemporal activity patterns in the recurrent network of CA3 and demonstrate that at least some features of population activity, namely coactivity of cell pairs and likelihood to engage in prolonged high activity, are maintained over days.
Personalized Virus Load Curves of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Hillen Thomas , Contreras Carlos , Newby Jay M.
Published: January 2021

This manuscript has been withdrawn due to submission errors. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Please see and cite for reference the manuscript posted on medRxivhttps://doi.org/10.1101/2021.01.21.21250268If you have any questions, please contact the corresponding author.
Development and validation of a predictive model for critical illness in adult patients requiring hospitalization for COVID-19
Authors: Paranjape Neha , Staples Lauren L , Stradwick Christina Y , Ray Herman Gene , Saldanha Ian J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Identifying factors that can predict severe disease in patients needing hospitalization for COVID-19 is crucial for early recognition of patients at greatest risk.

Objective

1) Identify factors predicting intensive care unit (ICU) transfer and (2) develop a simple calculator for clinicians managing patients hospitalized with COVID-19.

Methods

A total of 2,685 patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 admitted to a large metropolitan health system in Georgia, USA between March and July 2020 were included in the study. Seventy-five percent of patients were included in the training dataset (admitted March 1 to July 10). Through multivariable logistic regression, we developed a prediction model (probability score) for ICU transfer. Then, we validated the model by estimating its performance accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]) using data from the remaining 25% of patients (admitted July 11 to July 31).

Results

We included 2,014 and 671 patients in the training and validation datasets, respectively. Diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, serum C-reactive protein, and serum lactate dehydrogenase were identified as significant risk factors for ICU transfer, and a prediction model was developed. The AUC was 0.752 for the training dataset and 0.769 for the validation dataset. We developed a free, web-based calculator to facilitate use of the prediction model (https://icucovid19.shinyapps.io/ICUCOVID19/).

Conclusion

Our validated, simple, and accessible prediction model and web-based calculator for ICU transfer may be useful in assisting healthcare providers in identifying hospitalized patients with COVID-19, who are at high risk for clinical deterioration.

Triage of such patients for early aggressive treatment can impact clinical outcomes for this potentially deadly disease.
Abundantly expressed class of noncoding RNAs conserved through the multicellular evolution of dictyostelid social amoebas
Authors: Kjellin Jonas , Avesson Lotta , Reimegård Johan , Liao Zhen , Eichinger Ludwig , Noegel Angelika , Glöckner Gernot , Schaap Pauline , Söderbom Fredrik
Published: January 2021

Aggregative multicellularity has evolved multiple times in diverse groups of eukaryotes, exemplified by the well-studied development of dictyostelid social amoebas, for example,Dictyostelium discoideum. However, it is still poorly understood why multicellularity emerged in these amoebas while the majority of other members of Amoebozoa are unicellular. Previously, a novel type of noncoding RNA, Class I RNAs, was identified inD. discoideumand shown to be important for normal multicellular development. Here, we investigated Class I RNA evolution and its connection to multicellular development. We identified a large number of new Class I RNA genes by constructing a covariance model combined with a scoring system based on conserved upstream sequences. Multiple genes were predicted in representatives of each major group of Dictyostelia and expression analysis confirmed that our search approach identifies expressed Class I RNA genes with high accuracy and sensitivity and that the RNAs are developmentally regulated. Further studies showed that Class I RNAs are ubiquitous in Dictyostelia and share highly conserved structure and sequence motifs. In addition, Class I RNA genes appear to be unique to dictyostelid social amoebas because they could not be identified in outgroup genomes, including their closest known relatives. Our results show that Class I RNA is an ancient class of ncRNAs, likely to have been present in the last common ancestor of Dictyostelia dating back at least 600 million years. Based on previous functional analyses and the presented evolutionary investigation, we hypothesize that Class I RNAs were involved in evolution of multicellularity in Dictyostelia.
On ab initio indexing of Laue diffraction patterns
Authors: Morawiec Adam
Published: January 2021

The Laue method allows for fast pattern acquisition, but its use in structural studies is limited by the complexity of data processing. In particular, automatic ab initio indexing of Laue patterns is not trivial. This paper describes measures improving the effectiveness of indexing software. The first such measure is to adjust the positions of Laue spots on the basis of a mesh of lines fitted in a consistent way. Two other modifications enlarge the set of cells tested as potential primitive lattice cells. The last modification concerns eliminating solutions representing superlattices of the true reciprocal lattice. The impact of using these schemes on the chances of obtaining correct indexing solutions is illustrated. The described procedures can be implemented to create fully automatic software for ab initio indexing of Laue patterns.
Crystal structure of [3,10-bis(4-fluorophenethyl)-1,3,5,8,10,12-hexaazacyclotetradecane]nickel(II) diperchlorate
Authors: Kwak Chee-Hun , Chang Mee
Published: January 2021

The square-planar nickel(II) title complex, [Ni(C24H36F2N6)](ClO4)2 or [NiL](ClO4)2 (L = 3,10-bis(4-fluorophenethyl)-1,3,5,8,10,12-hexaazacyclotetradecane) was synthesized by a one-pot reaction of template condensation and its X-ray crystal structure was determined. The nickel(II) ion lies close by a twofold axis and the complex displays whole-molecule disorder. Ligand L, a hexaazacyclotetradecane ring having 4-fluorophenethyl side chains attached to uncoordinated nitrogen atoms, adopts a trans III (R,R,S,S) configuration. The average Ni—N bond distance is 1.934 (9) Å, which is quite similar to those of other nickel(II) complexes with similar ligands. The nickel(II) ion is located 0.051 (7) Å above the least-squares plane through the four coordinated N atoms. The average C—N bond distance and C—N—C angle involving uncoordinated nitrogen atoms are 1.425 (12) Å and 118.0 (9)°, respectively, indicating a significant contribution of sp
2 hybridization for these N atoms. The intermolecular N—H...O, C—H...O/F hydrogen bonds of the complex form a network structure, which looks like a seamless floral lace pattern.
Eagle fatalities are reduced by automated curtailment of wind turbines
Authors: McClure Christopher J. W. , Rolek Brian W. , Dunn Leah , McCabe Jennifer D. , Martinson Luke , Katzner Todd
Published: January 2021

Collision‐caused fatalities of animals at wind power facilities create a ‘green versus green’ conflict between wildlife conservation and renewable energy. These fatalities can be mitigated via informed curtailment whereby turbines are slowed or stopped when wildlife are considered at increased risk of collision. Automated monitoring systems could improve efficacy of informed curtailment, yet such technology is undertested.

We test the efficacy of an automated curtailment system—a camera system that detects flying objects, classifies them and decides whether to curtail individual turbines to avoid potential collision—in reducing counts of fatalities of eagles, at Top of the World Windpower Facility (hereafter, the treatment site) in Wyoming, USA. We perform a before–after–control–impact study, comparing the number of eagle fatalities observed at the treatment site with those at a nearby (15 km) control site without automated curtailment, both before and after the implementation of automated curtailment at the treatment site.

After correcting for carcass detection probability and scaling fatality estimates to turbine‐years, we estimate that the number of fatalities at the treatment site declined by 63% (95% CI = 59%–66%) between before and after periods while increasing at the control site by 113% (51%–218%). In total, there was an 82% (75%–89%) reduction in the fatality rate at the treatment site relative to the control site.

Synthesis and applications. Automated curtailment of wind turbine operation substantially reduced eagle fatalities. This technology therefore has the potential to lessen the conflict between wind energy and raptor conservation. Although automated curtailment reduced fatalities, they were not fully eliminated. Therefore, automated curtailment, as implemented here, is not a panacea and its efficacy could be improved if considered in conjunction with other mitigation actions.
Effect of papaverine on developmental hyperserotonemia induced autism spectrum disorder related behavioural phenotypes by altering markers of neuronal function, inflammation, and oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Luhach Kanishk , Kulkarni Giriraj T. , Singh Vijay P. , Sharma Bhupesh
Published: January 2021

Hyperserotonemia, in the early developmental phase, generates a variety of behavioural and biochemical phenotypes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in rats. Papaverine is known to provide benefits in various brain conditions. We investigated the role of a selective phosphodiesterase‐10A (PDE10A) inhibitor, papaverine on ASD related behavioural phenotypes (social behaviour deficits, repetitive behaviour, anxiety and hyperlocomotion) in developmental hyperserotonemia (DHS) rat model. Also, effects on important biochemical markers related with neuronal function (brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)‐neuronal survival and phosphorylated‐cAMP response element binding protein (pCREB)‐neuronal transcription factor), brain inflammation (interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐10 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α) and brain oxidative stress (TBARS and GSH) were studied in important brain areas (frontal cortex, cerebellum, hippocampus and striatum). Administration of a non‐selective serotonin receptor agonist, such as 5‐methoxytryptamine (5‐MT) to rats prenatally (gestational day 12 – day of parturition) and during early stages (postnatal day (PND) 0 –PND20) of development, resulted in impaired behaviour and brain biochemistry. Administration of papaverine (15/30 mg/kg ip) to 5‐MT administered rats from PND21 to PND48, resulted in improvement of behavioural deficits. Also, papaverine administration significantly increased the levels of BDNF, pCREB/CREB, IL‐10, GSH and significantly decreased TNF‐α, IL‐6 and TBARS levels in different brain areas. Papaverine, in both doses rectified important behavioural phenotypes related with ASD, the higher dose (30 mg/kg ip) showed significantly greater improvement than 15 mg/kg ip, possibly by improving neuronal function, brain inflammation and brain oxidative stress. Thus, PDE10A could be a probable target for pharmacological interventions and furthering our understanding of ASD pathogenesis.
Shotgun metagenomic analysis of kombucha mutualistic community exposed to Mars‐like environment outside the International Space Station
Authors: Góes‐Neto Aristóteles , Kukharenko Olga , Orlovska Iryna , Podolich Olga , Imchen Madangchanok , Kumavath Ranjith , Kato Rodrigo Bentes , de Carvalho Daniel Santana , Tiwari Sandeep , Brenig Bertram , Azevedo Vasco , Reva Oleg , de Vera Jean‐Pierre P. , Kozyrovska Natalia , Barh Debmalya
Published: January 2021

Kombucha is a multispecies microbial ecosystem mainly composed of acetic acid bacteria and osmophilic acid‐tolerant yeasts, which is used to produce a probiotic drink. Furthermore, Kombucha Mutualistic Community (KMC) has been recently proposed to be used during long space missions as both a living functional fermented product to improve astronauts' health and an efficient source of bacterial nanocellulose. In this study, we compared KMC structure and functions before and after samples were exposed to the space/Mars‐like environment outside the International Space Station in order to investigate the changes related to their re‐adaptation to Earth‐like conditions by shotgun metagenomics, using both diversity and functional analyses of Community Ecology and Complex Networks approach. Our study revealed that the long‐term exposure to space/Mars‐like conditions on low Earth orbit may disorganize the KMC to such extent that it will not restore the initial community structure; however, KMC core microorganisms of the community were maintained. Nonetheless, there were no significant differences in the community functions, meaning that the KMC communities are ecologically resilient. Therefore, despite the extremely harsh conditions, key KMC species revived and provided the community with the genetic background needed to survive long periods of time under extraterrestrial conditions.
Fatty acids and volatile flavor compounds in commercial plant‐based burgers
Authors: He Jiang , Liu Huaizhi , Balamurugan Sampathkumar , Shao Suqin
Published: January 2021

Interest in plant‐based meat alternatives (PMBAs) has been rapidly growing in both the food research community and the food industry due to higher consumer demands in recent years. However, scientific data regarding the health and aroma aspects of PBMA are rare. In this study, the fatty acids (FAs) and volatile flavor compounds (VFCs) were profiled in four types of plant‐based burgers (PBs) and compared to beef burger (BB). Over 40 FAs and 64 VFCs were detected and quantified in the samples. Nonsignificant differences (α = 0.05) were observed in the percentages of most FAs between uncooked and cooked PBs. PBs contained lower percentages of saturated FAs and trans‐FAs, higher percentages of unsaturated FAs, and lower ratio of n‐6 to n‐3 FAs comparing to the BB. The FA profiles in PBs are mainly determined by their ingredients. The VFC profile of cooked PBs was different from that of the uncooked ones. The ingredients, thermally induced Maillard reaction, and lipid oxidation had contributed to the formation of the flavor. For uncooked samples, the VFC profiles of PB 3 and PB 4 were similar to that of BB. While for cooked samples, PB 1 had similar VFC profile as BB. This illustrated the importance of the cooking process for aroma formation; however, ingredients, such as spices, remain an important source of VFCs in these burger samples. Ingredient optimization could be an effective strategy to enhance the flavor of PBs to resemble BB.

Practical Application

This study provides the knowledge of health and aroma‐related components in both raw and cooked PBs, including FA and VFC profiles. It also explains the source of those components. This will not only help consumer's decision making in choosing plant‐based meat alternatives, but also help the related industry to choose proper ingredients to optimize the final products.
Histomorphology of the lower respiratory tract in the Indian crested porcupine (Hystrix indica)
Authors: Marzban Abbasabadi Behrokh , Moradi Hamid Reza , Arefi Shirin , Kyllar Michal
Published: January 2021

The Indian crested porcupine (Hystrix indica) (ICP) is widely distributed in Asia; however, compared with other rodents, little is known about the structures of its respiratory system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the histomorphology of the lower respiratory portion of the ICP to provide a basis for the identification of the normal structure of this organ. The larynx, trachea and lungs of four carcasses of adult Indian crested porcupines (two males and two females) were dissected and fixed in 10% neutral‐buffered formalin. The gross anatomy and histology of all specimens were evaluated. A macroscopic evaluation showed unique structures in the ICP respiratory system, including the presence of a chamber‐like structure at the origin of the bronchi and a difference in epiglottis shape between males and females. Histologically, the stratified squamous epithelium covered the epiglottis and arytenoid cartilage, and the pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium covered the internal part of the thyroid and cricoid cartilages. Histomorphological studies showed a few goblet cells in the tracheal epithelium. In the bronchi and larger bronchioles, pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelia were observed. Bronchi were surrounded by segments of cartilage. Distal bronchioles had a simple cuboidal/columnar epithelium with club (Clara) cells, lacked cartilaginous tissue in their walls and had a complete smooth muscle layer. These results revealed histomorphological differences between the ICP and other rodents.
Robotic inguinal hernia repair: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Qabbani Amjad , Aboumarzouk Omar M. , ElBakry Tamer , Al‐Ansari Abdulla , Elakkad Mohamed S.
Published: January 2021

Background

We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of RHR's efficiency and safety, in addition to comparison between open and laparoscopic techniques.

Methods

A literature review was conducted from 2000 to 2020 including studies reporting on their centre's outcomes for robotic hernial repairs. A meta‐analysis was conducted. For continuous data, Mantel–Haenszel chi‐squares test was used and inverse variance was used for dichotomous data.

Results

In total, 19 studies were included. A total of 8987 patients were treated for hernia repairs, 4248 underwent open repairs, 2521 had robotic repairs and 1495 had laparoscopic repair. Cumulative analysis of robotic series: The overall average operative time was 90.8 min (range 25–180.7 min). The overall conversation rate was 0.63% (10/1596). The overall complication rate was 10.1% (248/2466). The overall recurrence rate was 1.2% (14/1218). Readmission rate was 1.6% (28/1750). Comparative meta‐analysis outcomes include robotic versus open and robotic versus laparoscopic. Robotic versus open: The robotic group had significantly longer operative times and less readmission rates. There was no difference between the two groups regarding complications, post‐operative pain occurrence and hernia recurrence rates. Robotic versus laparoscopic: The robotic group had significantly longer operative times and less complications. There was no difference regarding post‐operative pain occurrence, hernia recurrence rates or readmission rates.

Conclusion

Robotic hernia repair is a safe and efficient technique with minimal complications and a short learning curve; however, it remains inferior to the standard open technique. It does, however, have a role in minimally invasive technique centres. A multicentre randomized control trial is required comparing robotic, open and laparoscopic techniques.
Evidence of negative pressure therapy for anastomotic leak: a systematic review
Authors: Sharp Gary , Steffens Daniel , Koh Cherry E.
Published: January 2021

Background

Anastomotic leak (AL) is a devastating complication. Several new treatment options are available, endoluminal negative pressure therapy is one. The aims of this systematic review are; to report success rates and stoma closure rates following endoluminal negative pressure therapy in colorectal AL patients.

Methods

A systematic review of MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane and Embase databases from inception to June 2018. Search limits were; English language, humans, sample >5 and >18 years. Search terms were Endospong* OR Endo‐spong* OR Endo spong* OR Endoluminal negative pressure OR Endoluninal vac* OR Vacuum assisted OR negative pressure. Combined with colon OR rectum OR colorect* AND anastomotic leak OR leak*.

Results

Twenty articles met inclusion criteria. There were 334 patients. Reported success rates ranged from 60% to 100%. However, success definition varied considerably. The most widely used definition was endoscopic assessment of residual cavity size, but this also varied from 0.5 cm to 3 cm. Stoma closure rates were only reported in 11 studies and ranged from 31% to 100%. Complication rates were reported in 13 studies (65%). The most common was on‐going sepsis.

Conclusions

Included studies suggest that 60–100% of ALs heal with endoluminal negative pressure therapy. However, results from this review need to be interpreted with caution because of the variable definition of success. A more objective assessment of success may be stoma closure but this is only reported in 60% of studies. Further studies are needed to assess the benefit of negative pressure therapy in anastomotic leaks.
Cost‐effectivenessin surgery: concepts ofcost‐utilityanalysis explained
Authors: Vissapragada Ravi , Bulamu Norma , Karnon Jonathan , Yazbek Roger , Watson David I.
Published: January 2021

Economic evaluations are increasingly becoming part of the surgical evidence base. With health and research guidelines emphasizing both clinical and economic benefits, surgeons will need to consider the impact of economic evaluations in the future. It seems reasonable that surgical costs in the public healthcare sector should be justified by the benefits that clinical interventions offer. Thus, it is vital to understand the methodological differences, reported outcomes and limitations of economic evaluations pertinent to surgical practice as well. As terminology and concepts can be unfamiliar to surgeons, understanding results from these studies can seem difficult. This article aims to inform surgical readers of the processes involved in performing economic evaluations to determine and compare the cost‐effectiveness of treatments. The various types of economic evaluations, their uses, design characteristics, model parameters, interpretation of outputs, uncertainty analyses and notable limitations are considered. Through a hypothetical clinical example that compares costs and effects of surgical versus medical treatment for cancer, key concepts in economic evaluations are considered.
Low‐flow vascular malformations of the hand and forearm: a multidisciplinary experience in a tertiary paediatric centre
Authors: Karunaratne Yasiru G. , Greer Douglas , Hong Ling H. , Somia Naveen , Wargon Orli , Adams Susan
Published: January 2021

Background

Vascular malformations (VMs) involving the hand and forearm in children provide management challenges due to complex anatomy, indispensable functionality and developmental implications.

Methods

The institution's Vascular Registry was searched for patients with hand and arm VMs, supplemented by chart review of included patients.

Results

Twenty‐one patients were identified, 52% male, with mean presenting age 5.2 years. Venous malformations predominated (71%), followed by lymphatic‐venous (19%), lymphatic (5%) and glomuvenous (5%). Symptoms included pain (76%), swelling (71%), cosmetic concerns (81%), functional compromise (29%) and stiffness (5%). Imaging modality was ultrasound (100%), and magnetic resonance imaging (71%). Treatment included compression (62%), sclerotherapy (62%) and surgery (24%). Post‐sclerotherapy ultrasounds showed complete sclerosis (25%), near complete sclerosis (58%) and partial sclerosis (17%). Post‐surgery, patients reported improved cosmesis (80%), size (100%), pain (60%) and function (40%). Complications occurred in 24%, including bleeding, digital ischaemia and thrombosis. Mean follow‐up was 3.4 years.

Conclusion

Children with low‐flow VMs of the hand and forearm experience significant symptoms and functional limitations. A multidisciplinary approach to management ensures optimal outcomes.
Mental disorders and risk factors among pregnant women with depressive symptoms in Sweden—A case‐control study
Authors: Lilliecreutz Caroline , Josefsson Ann , Mohammed Hussein , Josefsson Agnes , Sydsjö Gunilla
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Identification of pregnant women suffering from depression or other mental disorders is a challenge for antenatal caregivers. The purpose of this case‐control study was to describe mental disorders and the risk factors for mental disorders in women with depressive symptoms assessed with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale during the first trimester and to compare them with pregnant women without depressive symptoms.

Material and methods

In total, 2271 women answered the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale at the first antenatal visit with a midwife. An Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of 13 or higher was considered to be screen‐positive and these women were further assessed. Screen‐negative pregnant women, matched for age and parity, were chosen as controls.

Results

In total, 149 (6.6%) women were found to be screen‐positive. The majority (126, 85%) had at least one mental disorder or risk factor for mental disorder, such as depression (36.0%), anxiety (14.8%), or severe fear of childbirth (20.8%). The screen‐positive women were more often smokers (16.1% vs 1.3%), unemployed (19.9% vs 1.3%), or on sick leave (25.3% vs 14.1%) during pregnancy and more often used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor during pregnancy (14.2% vs 2.7%) compared with the screen‐negative women (P<.001). Among the screen‐negative women (n = 150) only three (2%) presented with symptoms of depression during pregnancy.

Conclusions

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale seems to be a valuable screening tool to detect depressive symptoms as well as other mental disorders during early pregnancy.
Too depleted to control yourself? Effect of customer mistreatment on after‐work maladaptive behaviours through self‐control capacity impairment
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhou Zhiqing E. , Liu Yanjun , Shi Yanwei , Xiao Jian
Published: January 2021

Drawing on self‐regulation theories, the current study examined the effect of the daily experience of customer mistreatment at work on three types of maladaptive behaviours after work (impulsive buying, overeating behaviours, and mobile phone overuse) through self‐control capacity impairment. Further, we investigated the moderating roles of two recovery activities at work (taking some time for relaxation and learning something new at work) on the relationship between customer mistreatment and employee self‐control capacity impairment. With daily diary data collected from 57 fulltime service employees across 5 working days, our results revealed that daily experience of customer mistreatment at work was positively related to employees' impulsive buying and mobile phone overuse after work (but not overeating behaviours) via self‐control capacity impairment after controlling for the mediating effect of negative affect. Besides, relaxation, but not learning, buffered the positive relationship between customer mistreatment and self‐control capacity impairment. These findings shed light on further understanding the underlying mechanisms between customer mistreatment and employee maladaptive behaviours after work and strategies at work that might mitigate the negative effects of customer mistreatment.
Social influence matters: We follow pandemic guidelines most when our close circle does
Authors: Tunçgenç Bahar , El Zein Marwa , Sulik Justin , Newson Martha , Zhao Yi , Dezecache Guillaume , Deroy Ophelia
Published: January 2021

Why do we adopt new rules, such as social distancing? Although human sciences research stresses the key role of social influence in behaviour change, most COVID‐19 campaigns emphasize the disease’s medical threat. In a global data set (n = 6,675), we investigated how social influences predict people’s adherence to distancing rules during the pandemic. Bayesian regression analyses controlling for stringency of local measures showed that people distanced most when they thought their close social circle did. Such social influence mattered more than people thinking distancing was the right thing to do. People’s adherence also aligned with their fellow citizens, but only if they felt deeply bonded with their country. Self‐vulnerability to the disease predicted distancing more for people with larger social circles. Collective efficacy and collectivism also significantly predicted distancing. To achieve behavioural change during crises, policymakers must emphasize shared values and harness the social influence of close friends and family.
Cultural Components of Sex Differences in Color Preference
Authors: Davis Jac T. M. , Robertson Ellen , Lew‐Levy Sheina , Neldner Karri , Kapitany Rohan , Nielsen Mark , Hines Melissa
Published: January 2021

Preferences for pink and blue were tested in children aged 4–11 years in three small‐scale societies: Shipibo villages in the Peruvian Amazon, kastom villages in the highlands of Tanna Island, Vanuatu, and BaYaka foragers in the northern Republic of Congo; and compared to children from an Australian global city (totalN = 232). No sex differences were found in preference for pink in any of the three societies not influenced by global culture (ds − 0.31–0.23), in contrast to a female preference for pink in the global city (d = 1.24). Results suggest that the pairing of female and pink is a cultural phenomenon and is not driven by an essential preference for pink in girls.
Assessing the impact of a virtual support group on adoptive parent stress and competence: Results from an urban/rural pilot study
Authors: Miller J. Jay , Cooley Morgan , Niu Chunling , Segress Melissa , Fletcher Jessica , Bowman Karen , Pachner Theresia Maria
Published: January 2021

Despite the use of support groups among adoptive parents, few empirical works have assessed outcomes associated with participation in these groups, particularly those delivered via virtual platforms. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of participation in a virtual, pilot‐phase 10‐week adoptive parent support group, on adoptive parent stress and parental competence. The pilot included support groups at two sites in one south‐eastern state, one urban and the other rural. Data were collected via a retrospective pre‐/post‐design and utilized the Parental Stress Scale and Parental Sense of Competency measures to assess variables of interest. Analyses indicate significant increases in adoptive parent competency and significant decreases in parental stress within support groups at the urban site. No such significant differences were detected for participants in the rural group. Overall, findings indicate that support groups can be beneficial in addressing challenges associated with caregiver stress and competency among adoptive parents. As well, data suggest the need to be attentive to support group structure and duration, among other factors. After a brief review of pertinent background information, this paper will outline findings from this study and discuss salient implications derived from this effort.
Designed for accumulation by dispossession: An analysis of Tanzania's Wildlife Management Areas through the case of Burunge
Authors: Kicheleri Rose P. , Mangewa Lazaro J. , Nielsen Martin R. , Kajembe George C. , Treue Thorsten
Published: January 2021

Unfortunately, adverse rather than positive local welfare outcomes of community‐based conservation initiatives are quite common. Through the case of Burunge Wildlife Management Area (WMA) this study documents how WMAs in Tanzania appear designed to facilitate accumulation by dispossession in the name of decentralized wildlife management. Based on focus group discussions, interviews, and policy‐document analyses, we show that the process of establishing the WMA was fraught with hidden agendas and lacked legitimacy as well as transparency. Villagers and their local governments were also oblivious to the fact that the village land they contributed to forming the WMA would no longer be under village control even if they withdrew from the WMA. Decentralized revenue streams were gradually recentralized, and when the High Court ruled in favor of a Village Government that did not want to be part of the WMA, higher levels of government scared it to stay and to drop its legal as well as economic claims. We conclude that by mechanisms of rule‐through‐law WMAs deliberately dispossess village communities by attenuating the authority of democratically elected village governments. Hence, the wildlife policy needs urgent revision to democratize and thus promote positive livelihood outcomes of the WMA concept.
Livedoid cutaneous metastasis of signet‐ring cell gastric carcinoma
Authors: Demircioğlu Deniz , Öztürk Durmaz Emel , Demirkesen Cüyan , Şahin Sedef
Published: January 2021

Cutaneous metastasis of gastric cancer is extremely rare. Nodular forms are more common and inflammatory forms are exceptionally encountered. Herein, we report a case of inflammatory cutaneous metastasis of signet‐ring cell gastric cancer (poorly cohesive gastric carcinoma with signet‐ring cell component) masquerading as livedo reticularis. To our knowledge, such a clinical presentation of cutaneous metastasis has not been reported for gastric cancer. It is imperative to preserve a high index of clinical suspicion for diagnosing cutaneous metastases. Our case highlights the importance of obtaining a skin biopsy in patients with a known history of internal malignancy. Bizarre, newly erupting, evolving, persistent, or treatment‐refractory dermatologic lesions (such as nodules, ulcers, erythematous, reticular, or livedoid patches) might be clues for an underlying internal malignancy and require prompt histopathological sampling. Personal medical history, histopathological examination, and immunohistochemical profiling are equally important in distinguishing primary cutaneous carcinomas from secondary metastatic deposits. Early recognition of a cutaneous metastasis might enable appropriate staging and timely intervention, thereby prolonging survival.
Managing opioid withdrawal precipitated by buprenorphine with buprenorphine
Authors: Oakley Bridget , Wilson Hester , Hayes Victoria , Lintzeris Nicholas
Published: January 2021

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist commonly used to treat opioid dependence. The pharmacology of buprenorphine increases the risk of a precipitated opioid withdrawal when commencing patients on buprenorphine treatment, particularly when transferring from long acting opioids (e.g. methadone). There is little documented experience regarding the management of precipitated withdrawal. In our case, a patient developed a significant precipitated opioid withdrawal following buprenorphine administration, and was able to be successfully treated in hospital with further buprenorphine. This demonstrates that rapid increases in buprenorphine dose can be used as an effective treatment for buprenorphine‐induced precipitated opioid withdrawal. The use of buprenorphine to manage withdrawal then allows the individual to continue on this highly effective treatment.