bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burden of rare coding variants reveals genetic heterogeneity between obese and non-obese asthma patients in the African American population
Authors: Liu Yichuan , Qu Hui-Qi , Qu Jingchun , Chang Xiao , Mentch Frank D. , Nguyen Kenny , Tian Lifeng , Glessner Joseph , Sleiman Patrick M. A. , Hakonarson Hakon
Published: May 2022

Background

Asthma is a complex condition largely attributed to the interactions among genes and environments as a heterogeneous phenotype. Obesity is significantly associated with asthma development, and genetic studies on obese vs. non-obese asthma are warranted.

Methods

To investigate asthma in the minority African American (AA) population with or without obesity, we performed a whole genome sequencing (WGS) study on blood-derived DNA of 4289 AA individuals, included 2226 asthma patients (1364 with obesity and 862 without obesity) and 2006 controls without asthma. The burden analysis of functional rare coding variants was performed by comparing asthma vs. controls and by stratified analysis of obese vs. non-obese asthma, respectively.

Results

Among the top 66 genes with P < 0.01 in the asthma vs. control analysis, stratified analysis by obesity showed inverse correlation of natural logarithm (LN) of P value between obese and non-obese asthma (r = − 0.757, P = 1.90E−13). Five genes previously reported in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on asthma, including TSLP, SLC9A4, PSMB8, IGSF5, and IKZF4 were demonstrated association in the asthma vs. control analysis. The associations of IKZF4 and IGSF5 are only associated with obese asthma; and the association of SLC9A4 is only observed in non-obese asthma. In addition, the association of RSPH3 (the gene is related to primary ciliary dyskinesia) is observed in non-obese asthma.

Conclusions

These findings highlight genetic heterogeneity between obese and non-obese asthma in patients of AA ancestry.
TNFRSF13B is a potential contributor to prostate cancer
Authors: Li Chia-Yang , Huang Shu-Pin , Chen Yei-Tsung , Wu Hsin-En , Cheng Wei-Chung , Huang Chao-Yuan , Yu Chia-Cheng , Lin Victor C. , Geng Jiun-Hung , Lu Te-Ling , Bao Bo-Ying
Published: May 2022

Background

Immunodeficiencies are genetic diseases known to predispose an individual to cancer owing to defective immunity towards malignant cells. However, the link between immunodeficiency and prostate cancer progression remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of common genetic variants among eight immunodeficiency pathway-related genes on disease recurrence in prostate cancer patients treated with radical prostatectomy.

Methods

Genetic and bioinformatic analyses on 19 haplotype-tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms in eight immunodeficiency pathway-related genes were conducted in 458 patients with prostate cancer after receiving radical prostatectomy. Furthermore, the TNFRSF13B was knocked down in 22Rv1 and PC-3 human prostate cancer cell lines via transfecting short hairpin RNAs and cell proliferation and colony formation assays were performed. The molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of TNFRSF13B were further explored by microarray gene expression profiling.

Results

TNFRSF13B rs4792800 was found to be significantly associated with biochemical recurrence even after adjustment for clinical predictors and false discovery rate correction (adjusted hazard ratio 1.78, 95% confidence interval 1.16–2.71, p = 0.008), and the G allele was associated with higher TNFRSF13B expression (p = 0.038). Increased TNFRSF13B expression suggested poor prognosis in four independent prostate cancer datasets. Furthermore, silencing TNFRSF13B expression resulted in decreased colony formation of 22Rv1 and PC-3 cells through modulating the cell cycle and p53 signalling pathways.

Conclusions

The present study suggests the potential role of immunodeficiency pathway-related genes, primarily TNFRSF13B, in prostate cancer progression.
Long non-coding RNA LSAMP-1 is down-regulated in non-small cell lung cancer and predicts a poor prognosis
Authors: Gong Wei , Li Yinyan , Xian Jianfeng , Yang Lei , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhang Xin , Zhou Yifeng , Wang Xinhua , Qiao Guibin , Chen Cuiyi , Datta Soham , Gao Xincheng , Lu Jiachun , Qiu Fuman
Published: May 2022

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as master regulators for gene expression and thus play a vital role in human tumorigenesis and progression. But the involvement of novel lncRNAs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains largely unelucidated.

Methods

A total of 170 NSCLC and their adjacent non-tumor tissues were enrolled to detect the expression of Lnc-LSAMP-1 by RT-qPCR. The effects of Lnc-LSAMP-1 on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and drug-sensitivity were determined by in vitro and in vivo experiments. The proteins that interact with Lnc-LSAMP-1were confirmed by RNA pull-down assay. RNA-sequencing were used to identify the potential targets of Lnc-LSAMP-1 in NSCLC.

Results

We found that Lnc-LSAMP-1 was significantly down-regulated in 170 cases of NSCLC tissues when compared to their adjacent non-cancerous tissues. Loss expression of Lnc-LSAMP-1 was notably correlated with unfavorable prognosis of NSCLC patients. The ectopic expression of Lnc-LSAMP-1 drastically inhibited lung cancer cell proliferation, viability, invasion and migration ability, arrested cell cycle and facilitated apoptosis. Chemotherapy sensitization experiments showed that over-expressed Lnc-LSAMP-1 enhanced the inhibition of cell proliferation induced by TKI. Mechanistically, Lnc-LSAMP-1-LSAMP formed a complex which could protect the degradation of LSAMP gene, and thus exerted crucial roles in NSCLC progression and TKI targeted treatment.

Conclusions

Consequently, our findings highlight the function and prognostic value of Lnc-LSAMP-1 in NSCLC and provide potential novel therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers for patients with NSCLC.
Myeloid cell leukemia-1 expression in cancers of the oral cavity: a scoping review
Authors: Choi Su-Jung , Swarup Neeti , Shin Ji-Ae , Hong Seong-Doo , Cho Sung-Dae
Published: May 2022

Background

B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family members play important roles in cell survival as well as cell death. The role of myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1), an important member of the Bcl-2 family, is well established in hematopoietic malignancies. However, the association between Mcl-1 and oral cavity, cancers is not clearly defined.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted until June 30, 2021, using four major databases, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Medical subject headings keywords for Mcl-1, along with its other identifiers, and head and neck cancers (only oral cavity tumors) were used to evaluate the expression, function, molecular association, and therapeutic approach of Mcl-1 in oral cavity cancers and precancers.

Findings

Mcl-1 expression was associated with the progression of oral cavity cancers. The molecular mechanism and pathways of Mcl-1 in oral cavity cancers established via experimental results have been highlighted in this review. Moreover, the various synthetic and naturally derived therapeutic agents targeting Mcl-1 have been documented.

Novelty/Improvement

Based on our present review, Mcl-1 appears to be an effective anticancer target that can be used in the therapeutic management of oral cancers.
Socioeconomic inequalities in stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates: evidence on Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups in eastern India
Authors: Busch Sophie L.P. , Houweling Tanja A.J. , Pradhan Hemanta , Gope Rajkumar , Rath Shibanand , Kumar Amit , Nath Vikash , Prost Audrey , Nair Nirmala
Published: May 2022

Background

Tribal peoples are among the most marginalised groups worldwide. Evidence on birth outcomes in these groups is scant. We describe inequalities in Stillbirth Rate (SBR), Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR), and uptake of maternal and newborn health services between tribal and less disadvantaged groups in eastern India, and examine the contribution of poverty and education to these inequalities.

Methods

We used data from a demographic surveillance system covering a 1 million population in Jharkhand State (March 2017 – August 2019) to describe SBR, NMR, and service uptake. We used logistic regression analysis combined with Stata’s adjrr-command to estimate absolute and relative inequalities by caste/tribe (comparing Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) and other Scheduled Tribes (ST) with the less marginalised Other Backward Class (OBC)/none, using the Indian government classification), and by maternal education and household wealth.

Results

PVTGs had a higher NMR (59/1000) than OBC/none (31/1000) (rate ratio (RR): 1.92, 95%CI: 1.55–2.38). This was partly explained by wealth and education, but inequalities remained large after adjustment (adjusted RR: 1.59, 95%CI: 1.28–1.98). NMR was also higher among other STs (44/1000), but disparities were smaller (RR: 1.47, 95%CI: 1.23–1.75). There was a systematic gradient in NMR by maternal education and household wealth. SBRs were only higher in poorer groups (RRpoorest vs. least poor:1.56, 95%CI: 1.14–2.13). Uptake of facility-based services was low among PVTGs (e.g. institutional birth: 25% vs. 69% in OBC/none) and among poorer and less educated women. However, 65% of PVTG women with an institutional birth used a maternity vehicle vs. 34% among OBC/none. Visits from frontline workers (Accredited Social Health Activists [ASHAs]) were similar across groups, and ASHA accompaniment of institutional births was similar across caste/tribe groups, and higher among poorer and less educated women. Attendance in participatory women’s groups was similar across caste/tribe groups, and somewhat higher among richer and better educated women.

Conclusions

PVTGs are highly disadvantaged in terms of birth outcomes. Targeted interventions that reduce geographical barriers to facility-based care and address root causes of high poverty and low education in PVTGs are a priority. For population-level impact, they are to be combined with broader policies to reduce socio-economic mortality inequalities. Community-based interventions reach disadvantaged groups and have potential to reduce the mortality gap.
Synergistic photothermal-photodynamic-chemotherapy toward breast cancer based on a liposome-coated core–shell AuNS@NMOFs nanocomposite encapsulated with gambogic acid
Authors: Li Rong-Tian , Zhu Yi-Dan , Li Wen-Ya , Hou Ying-Ke , Zou Yi-Ming , Zhao Ying-Hua , Zou Quan , Zhang Wen-Hua , Chen Jin-Xiang
Published: May 2022

A multifunctional nanoplatform with core–shell structure was constructed in one-pot for the synergistic photothermal, photodynamic, and chemotherapy against breast cancer. In the presence of gambogic acid (GA) as the heat-shock protein 90 (HSP90) inhibitor and the gold nanostars (AuNS) as the photothermal reagent, the assembly of Zr4+ with tetrakis (4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (TCPP) gave rise to the nanocomposite AuNS@ZrTCPP-GA (AZG), which in turn, further coated with PEGylated liposome (LP) to enhance the stability and biocompatibility, and consequently the antitumor effect of the particle. Upon cellular uptake, the nanoscale metal − organic framework (NMOF) of ZrTCPP in the resulted AuNS@ZrTCPP-GA@LP (AZGL) could be slowly degraded in the weak acidic tumor microenvironment to release AuNS, Zr4+, TCPP, and GA to exert the synergistic treatment of tumors via the combination of AuNS-mediated mild photothermal therapy (PTT) and TCPP-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT). The introduction of GA serves to reduce the thermal resistance of the cell to re-sensitize PTT and the constructed nanoplatform demonstrated remarkable anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo. Our work highlights a facile strategy to prepare a pH-dissociable nanoplatform for the effective synergistic treatment of breast cancer.

Graphical Abstract
TT-Mars: structural variants assessment based on haplotype-resolved assemblies
Authors: Yang Jianzhi , Chaisson Mark J.P.
Published: May 2022

Variant benchmarking is often performed by comparing a test callset to a gold standard set of variants. In repetitive regions of the genome, it may be difficult to establish what is the truth for a call, for example, when different alignment scoring metrics provide equally supported but different variant calls on the same data. Here, we provide an alternative approach, TT-Mars, that takes advantage of the recent production of high-quality haplotype-resolved genome assemblies by providing false discovery rates for variant calls based on how well their call reflects the content of the assembly, rather than comparing calls themselves.
Energy-efficient recovery of fermented butyric acid using octyl acetate extraction
Authors: Oh Hyeon Woo , Lee Seong Chan , Woo Hee Chul , Kim Young Han
Published: May 2022

Background

A butyric acid recovery process using octyl acetate is proposed, and the design details of the extraction and subsequent distillation processes were investigated. Ternary equilibrium data for the extractor design were derived from molecular simulations and experimental measurements.

Results

A new procedure for estimating the thermodynamic parameters was introduced to determine the effect of the parameters on extractor design by comparison with previously reported parameters. Using the proposed recovery process with the newly estimated thermodynamic model, 99.8% butyric acid was recovered from the fermentation broth at a recovery rate of 99%. The energy demand for the proposed process was found to be lower than the average demand for several reported butyric acid recovery processes.

Conclusions

The investment cost is projected to be lower than that of other butyric acid processes due to the high efficiency of extraction solvent. The recovery cost of butyric acid was comparable to its selling price.
A dynamic single cell-based framework for digital twins to prioritize disease genes and drug targets
Authors: Li Xinxiu , Lee Eun Jung , Lilja Sandra , Loscalzo Joseph , Schäfer Samuel , Smelik Martin , Strobl Maria Regina , Sysoev Oleg , Wang Hui , Zhang Huan , Zhao Yelin , Gawel Danuta R. , Bohle Barbara , Benson Mikael
Published: May 2022

Background

Medical digital twins are computational disease models for drug discovery and treatment. Unresolved problems include how to organize and prioritize between disease-associated changes in digital twins, on cellulome- and genome-wide scales. We present a dynamic framework that can be used to model such changes and thereby prioritize upstream regulators (URs) for biomarker- and drug discovery.

Methods

We started with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) as a disease model, by analyses of in vitro allergen-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from SAR patients. Time-series a single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data of these cells were used to construct multicellular network models (MNMs) at each time point of molecular interactions between cell types. We hypothesized that predicted molecular interactions between cell types in the MNMs could be traced to find an UR gene, at an early time point. We performed bioinformatic and functional studies of the MNMs to develop a scalable framework to prioritize UR genes. This framework was tested on a single-cell and bulk-profiling data from SAR and other inflammatory diseases.

Results

Our scRNA-seq-based time-series MNMs of SAR showed thousands of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) across multiple cell types, which varied between time points. Instead of a single-UR gene in each MNM, we found multiple URs dispersed across the cell types. Thus, at each time point, the MNMs formed multi-directional networks. The absence of linear hierarchies and time-dependent variations in MNMs complicated the prioritization of URs. For example, the expression and functions of Th2 cytokines, which are approved drug targets in allergies, varied across cell types, and time points. Our analyses of bulk- and single-cell data from other inflammatory diseases also revealed multi-directional networks that showed stage-dependent variations. We therefore developed a quantitative approach to prioritize URs: we ranked the URs based on their predicted effects on downstream target cells. Experimental and bioinformatic analyses supported that this kind of ranking is a tractable approach for prioritizing URs.

Conclusions

We present a scalable framework for modeling dynamic changes in digital twins, on cellulome- and genome-wide scales, to prioritize UR genes for biomarker and drug discovery.
Superficial venous thrombosis as a possible consequence of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine: two case reports
Authors: Sah Mukesh Kumar , Singh Bishnu Mohan , Sinha Puja , Devkota Prerit , Yadav Sudhira Kumari , Shrestha John , Shrestha Ashis
Published: May 2022

Background

Many scientists across the world got involved in the race to develop successful anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines to overcome COVID-19 pandemic. Among the different vaccines developed against SARS-CoV-2, Covishield was the first vaccine approved for emergency use in Nepal. We report two cases of Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) for the first time in the literature after vaccination with the Chimpanzee Adenovirus-vectored Vaccine (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine).

Cases presentation

Two cases, a 24-year-old young Chhetri male and a 62-year-old Chhetri female who have received Covishield (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19) vaccine, developed pain in left calf after 2 weeks and 10 weeks of vaccination, respectively. Both the case belongs to the Chhetri ethnic group of Nepal. The pain became severe on the fourth week of immunization in the first case while the pain was acute and severe on the 10th week of vaccination in the second case. The first presented to emergency room and second case was referred to the emergency room from Orthopedic Clinic. On evaluation the first patient had normal vitals with no history of fever and swelling yet displayed non-radiating mild to moderate intensity pain localized to left leg below the knee which became aggravated by movements. In the second case however pain was more intense with other characteristics as first case. Both cases had low wells score (< 4). On local examination tenderness was noted on squeezing but other systemic examination findings of the patient were within normal limits in both cases. Among the numerous vaccines used to fight the battle against COVID-19 disease, the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine, Covishield, has been widely used in Nepal and India. Apart from other minor side effects, in few cases thromboses have been reported after vaccination of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, Covishield, vaccine.

Conclusion

These cases reporting Superficial Vein Thrombosis may be an additional adverse effect to the list of adverse events associated with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, Covishield, vaccine. However, the benefits of the vaccine in breaking the chain of COVID 19 spread are certainly greater than the risk of thromboses.
Thermostability mechanisms of β-agarase by analyzing its structure through molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Liu Lixing , Cai Lixi , Chu Yunmeng , Zhang Min
Published: May 2022

Agarase is a natural catalyst with a good prospect in the industry. However, most of the currently discovered β-agarases are unsuitable for relatively high-temperature and high-pressure conditions required by industrial production. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations were first used to investigate the dynamic changes of folding and unfolding of mesophile and thermophile β-agarases (i.e., 1URX and 3WZ1) to explore the thermostability mechanism at three high temperatures (300 K, 400 K, and 500 K). Results showed that the sequence identity of 3WZ1 and 1URX reaches 48.8%. 1URX has a higher thermal sensitivity and less thermostability than 3WZ1 as more thermostable regions and hydrogen bonds exist in 3WZ1 compared with 1URX. The structures of 1URX and 3WZ1 become unstable with increasing temperatures up to 500 K. The strategies to increase the thermostability of 1URX and 3WZ1 are discussed. This study could provide insights into the design and modification of β-agarases at a high temperature.
Students’ university mobility patterns in Europe: an introduction
Authors: Attanasio Massimo
Published: May 2022

This thematic series collects some papers on Italian students' mobility. The aim of this thematic series is twofold. First, to describe the phenomenon which is important for universities and for its negative socio-economic implications for the South of Italy. Second, to propose new applications of statistical methods for this topic and applications which can be extended to other forms of migration, too.
The Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale – Short Form (DERS-SF): psychometric properties and invariance between genders
Authors: Gouveia Patrícia , Ramos Catarina , Brito José , Almeida Telma C. , Cardoso Jorge
Published: May 2022

Background

The understanding of how individuals manage their emotional experiences has flourished dramatically over the last decades, including assessing of emotion (dys)regulation. The Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) is a well-validated and extensively used self-report instrument for emotion regulation problems. Despite the wide use of DERS in both clinical and research settings, its length potentially increases fatigue and frustration in respondents and limits its inclusion in brief research protocols. Consequently, a short-form version of the DERS (DERS-SF) was developed, which requires cross-cultural adaptations and the study of its reliability and validity.

Objectives

In order to address this issue, this study aimed to analyze the factorial structure and psychometric properties of the Portuguese version of DERS-SF and examine the DERS-SF factor structure invariance between men and women.

Methods

The sample comprised 646 participants aged between 18 and 66 years (M = 29.93, SD = 11.71).

Results

The correlated six-factor structure of the original version has an acceptable fit, good reliability, and convergent validity. Our results also suggested the invariance of the factor structure of the DERS-SF across genders.

Conclusion

The DERS-SF has good psychometric properties, and it may be useful for future research and clinical work to use this six-factor brief version and improve emotion regulation assessment.
Clinician Agreement on the Classification of Thyroid Nodules Ultrasound Features: A Survey of 2 Endocrine Societies
Authors: Burgos Nydia , Zhao Jing , Brito Juan P , Hoang Jenny K , Pitoia Fabian , Maraka Spyridoula , Castro M Regina , Lee Ji-Hyun , Singh Ospina Naykky
Published: May 2022

Context

Thyroid nodule risk stratification allows clinicians to standardize the evaluation of thyroid cancer risk according to ultrasound features.

Objective

To evaluate interrater agreement among clinicians assessing thyroid nodules ultrasound features and thyroid cancer risk categories.

Design, setting, and participants

We surveyed Endocrine Society and Latin American Thyroid Society members to assess their interpretation of composition, echogenicity, shape, margins, and presence of echogenic foci of 10 thyroid nodule cases. The risk category for thyroid cancer was calculated following the American College of Radiology-Thyroid Imaging Reporting & Data System (ACR-TIRADS) framework from individual responses.

Main Outcomes and Measures

We used descriptive statistics and Gwet’s agreement coefficient (AC1) to assess the primary outcome of interrater agreement for ACR-TIRADS risk category. As secondary outcomes, the interrater agreement for individual features and a subgroup analysis of interrater agreement for the ACR-TIRADS category were performed (ultrasound reporting system, type of practice, and number of monthly appraisals).

Results

A total of 144 participants were included, mostly endocrinologists. There was moderate level of agreement for the absence of echogenic foci (AC1 0.53, 95% CI 0.24-0.81) and composition (AC1 0.54, 95% CI 0.36-0.71). The agreement for margins (AC1 0.24, 95% CI 0.15-0.33), echogenicity (AC1 0.34, 95% CI 0.22-0.46), and shape assessment (AC1 0.42, 95% CI 0.13-0.70) was lower. The overall agreement for ACR-TIRADS assessment was AC1 0.29, (95% CI 0.13-0.45). The AC1 of ACR-TIRADS among subgroups was similar.

Conclusions

This study found high variation of judgments about ACR-TIRADS risk category and individual features, which poses a potential challenge for the widescale implementation of thyroid nodule risk stratification.
Elevated Levels of Follicular Fatty Acids Induce Ovarian Inflammation via ERK1/2 and Inflammasome Activation in PCOS
Authors: Lai Yuchen , Ye Zhenhong , Mu Liangshan , Zhang Yurong , Long Xiaoyu , Zhang Chunmei , Li Rong , Zhao Yue , Qiao Jie
Published: May 2022

Context

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is accompanied by chronic inflammation and metabolic disorders. Whether metabolic abnormalities affect inflammation in PCOS or not, the underlying mechanism remains to be clarified.

Objective

We aimed to investigate changes in fatty acids and their effects on inflammatory response in the follicular niche of PCOS patients.

Methods

This study recruited 50 PCOS patients and 50 age-matched controls for follicular fluids and ovarian mural granulosa cells collection. The human ovarian granulosa cell line KGN was used for evaluating the effect of oleic acid (OA) stimulation. The levels of follicular fatty acids were measured by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The concentrations of inflammatory cytokines were detected by electrochemiluminescence and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The regulation of inflammation-related genes was confirmed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting after OA stimuli.

Results

Three saturated fatty acids and 8 unsaturated fatty acids were significantly elevated in follicular fluids of PCOS patients compared to those in controls. The concentrations of follicular interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and mature IL-18 were significantly higher in the PCOS group and were positively correlated with the levels of fatty acids. Moreover, OA stimulation upregulated the transcription levels of IL-6 and IL-8 via extracellularly regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathways in KGN cells. Furthermore, OA treatment induced reactive oxygen species production and inflammasome activation, which is manifested by enhanced caspase-1 activity and mature IL-18 protein level.

Conclusion

Fatty acid metabolism was significantly altered in the follicular niche of PCOS patients. Elevated levels of fatty acids could induce ovarian inflammation both at the transcriptional level and in posttranslational processing.
The Technical Fix
Authors: Vázquez Eric
Published: May 2022

This essay examines Bitcoin enthusiasts’ abstract and material arguments about the viability of bitcoin in El Salvador through historical and political-economic frameworks. In June 2021, with legislators in tow, President Nayib Bukele declared that the adoption of Bitcoin would encourage flows of capital into El Salvador’s crisis-addled economy—flows that would lift all boats. In a sense, riding on Bitcoin’s success or failure in El Salvador is a test case for Bit-coin’s claim to be the future of money and for other such “technical fixes” of capitalism’s shortfalls in the developing world. By comparing Bukele’s move with El Salvador’s push to dollarize in 2001, this essay traces a comparable strategy of El Salvador’s economic and political elites where the swap of currencies becomes a vehicle for massive accumulation at the top, while popular classes suffer. Consequently, this essay argues that Bukele’s “technical fix” on his nation’s economy is a mere pretext. By leveraging the assets of the broader populace, he pursues the class interests of El Salvador’s new oligarchy.
Review of Cerebrospinal Fluid Physiology and Dynamics: A Call for Medical Education Reform
Authors: Atchley Travis J. , Vukic Barbara , Vukic Miroslav , Walters Beverly C.
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND:

The flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been described as a unidirectional system with the choroid plexus serving as the primary secretor of CSF and the arachnoid granulations as primary reabsorption site. This theory of neurosurgical forefathers has been universally adopted and taught as dogma. Many neuroscientists have found difficulty reconciling this theory with common pathologies, and recent studies have found that this “classic” hypothesis may not represent the full picture.

OBJECTIVE:

To review modern CSF dynamic theories and to call for medical education reform.

METHODS:

We reviewed the literature from January 1990 to December 2020. We searched the PubMed database using key terms “cerebrospinal fluid circulation,” “cerebrospinal fluid dynamics,” “cerebrospinal fluid physiology,” “glymphatic system,” and “glymphatic pathway.” We selected articles with a primary aim to discuss either CSF dynamics and/or the glymphatic system.

RESULTS:

The Bulat–Klarica–Orešković hypothesis purports that CSF is secreted and reabsorbed throughout the craniospinal axis. CSF demonstrates similar physiology to that of water elsewhere in the body. CSF “circulates” throughout the subarachnoid space in a pulsatile to-and-fro fashion. Osmolarity plays a critical role in CSF dynamics. Aquaporin-4 and the glymphatic system contribute to CSF volume and flow by establishing osmolarity gradients and facilitating CSF movement. Multiple studies demonstrate that the choroid plexus does not play any significant role in CSF circulation.

CONCLUSION:

We have highlighted major studies to illustrate modern principles of CSF dynamics. Despite these, the medical education system has been slow to reform curricula and update learning resources.
Tubulin isotypes – functional insights from model organisms
Authors: Nsamba Emmanuel T. , Gupta Mohan L.
Published: May 2022

The microtubule cytoskeleton is assembled from the α- and β-tubulin subunits of the canonical tubulin heterodimer, which polymerizes into microtubules, and a small number of other family members, such as γ-tubulin, with specialized functions. Overall, microtubule function involves the collective action of multiple α- and β-tubulin isotypes. However, despite 40 years of awareness that most eukaryotes harbor multiple tubulin isotypes, their role in the microtubule cytoskeleton has remained relatively unclear. Various model organisms offer specific advantages for gaining insight into the role of tubulin isotypes. Whereas simple unicellular organisms such as yeast provide experimental tractability that can facilitate deeper access to mechanistic details, more complex organisms, such as the fruit fly, nematode and mouse, can be used to discern potential specialized functions of tissue- and structure-specific isotypes. Here, we review the role of α- and β-tubulin isotypes in microtubule function and in associated tubulinopathies with an emphasis on the advances gained using model organisms. Overall, we argue that studying tubulin isotypes in a range of organisms can reveal the fundamental mechanisms by which they mediate microtubule function. It will also provide valuable perspectives on how these mechanisms underlie the functional and biological diversity of the cytoskeleton.
The roles of inter-tissue adhesion in development and morphological evolution
Authors: Smith Sarah Jacquelyn , Guillon Emilie , Holley Scott A.
Published: May 2022

The study of how neighboring tissues physically interact with each other, inter-tissue adhesion, is an emerging field at the interface of cell biology, biophysics and developmental biology. Inter-tissue adhesion can be mediated by either cell–extracellular matrix adhesion or cell–cell adhesion, and both the mechanisms and consequences of inter-tissue adhesion have been studied in vivo in numerous vertebrate and invertebrate species. In this Review, we discuss recent progress in understanding the many functions of inter-tissue adhesion in development and evolution. Inter-tissue adhesion can couple the motion of adjacent tissues, be the source of mechanical resistance that constrains morphogenesis, and transmit tension required for normal development. Tissue–tissue adhesion can also create mechanical instability that leads to tissue folding or looping. Transient inter-tissue adhesion can facilitate tissue invasion, and weak tissue adhesion can generate friction that shapes and positions tissues within the embryo. Lastly, we review studies that reveal how inter-tissue adhesion contributes to the diversification of animal morphologies.
The functional basis for variable antipredatory behavioral strategies in the chameleon Chamaeleo calyptratus
Authors: Drown Rachel M. , Liebl Andrea L. , Anderson Christopher V.
Published: May 2022

To counterbalance demands of different selective pressures, many species possess morphological, physiological and behavioral specializations that increase survival in their environments. Predation is one such pressure that can elicit multiple adaptive responses, and the effectiveness of antipredator behaviors likely vary both by environment and individual across time. Chameleons use multiple antipredator strategies, many of which vary with body size and habitat type. Although their unique morphological and physiological traits produce relatively slow locomotion, which is poorly suited for fleeing, chameleons can also use crypsis or aggression to avoid predation. To examine the functional basis for variable antipredator behavioral responses, we subjected chameleons to a series of mock predation trials and determined how often individuals adopted each antipredator strategy, and then quantified the performance capacities underlying each strategy. In particular, we measured bite force as a determinant for aggression, sprint velocity for fleeing, and degree of color change for crypsis. We found that aggression was predicted by traits associated with higher absolute and relative bite force, as well as habitat type; fleeing was predicted by higher normalized sprint velocity and habitat type; and crypsis was predicted by habitat type, color change capacity in bird color space and the interaction between the two. These results illustrate the importance of considering both functional capacity and environmental context in antipredator behavior decision-making.
Controlling the Movability and Excimer Formation of Functional Organic Molecules
Authors: Akai Ryota , Oka Kouki , Nishida Ryunosuke , Tohnai Norimitsu
Published: May 2022

An excimer is an excited dimer complex made of two π-conjugated fluorophore molecules such that one is in the ground, and the other in the excited state. In the solid state, the intensity of the excimer emission, which is mainly caused by the formation of the excited dimer, heavily depends on the movability of the excited π-conjugated molecule. In this study, we report that organic salts composed of disulfonic acid with a common π-conjugated molecule, 2,2′-bithiophene (BT), can act as functional excimer moieties, while linear alkylamines may be used as arrangement-controlling moieties. Furthermore, we found that the intensity of the excimer emission can be drastically changed by fixing the BT moiety, which can be achieved via the interaction of the alkyl groups (i.e., the anchor effect). The experimental relationship between the movability of the π-conjugated molecule and the intensity of the excimer emission was revealed without changing the structure and arrangement of the functional organic molecules in the solid state.
Fabrication of Ru-dye-sensitized Photoanodes Composed of a Prussian White-Prussian Blue Heterojunction toward Water Oxidation
Authors: Kobayashi Atsushi , Otsuka Hiroki , Yoshida Masaki , Kato Masako
Published: May 2022

A novel water oxidation photoanode composed of a phosphonate-functionalized Ru(II) dye (RuP), Prussian white analogue hole mediator, K2Cd[Ru(CN)6] (PWA), and Prussian blue analogue water oxidation catalyst K2xCo3−x[Fe(CN)6]2·nH2O (PBA), was fabricated on a TiO2 electrode surface. The catalytic activity of PBA was successfully retained after the formation of the heterojunction with PWA. The photo-induced charge-separation efficiency at the TiO2|RuP interface was improved by PBA layering.
Review of Injury Patterns of the 2018 Bank of America Chicago Marathon to Optimize Medical Planning
Authors: Rygiel Valerie , Labrador Hallie , Jaworski Carrie A. , Chiampas George
Published: May 2022

Medical planning for a marathon requires an understanding of the volumes and types of injuries experienced by runners during a race. This chart review of medical records from the 2018 Bank of America Chicago Marathon (N = 1016) measured volume and types of injuries at the race aid stations to determine the impact that race distance has on medical resource utilization. The type and volume of each injured runner diagnosis was compared between quartiles of the race using a chisquare analysis. The most common presenting complaints were musculoskeletal (MSK), followed by medical/other, and then wound care. The proportion of MSK complaints increased over the course of the race, whereas the percentage of medical and wound care complaints was highest at the finish line tents. Understanding the expected volume and type of injuries along the course of a race optimizes medical planning and leads to better utilization of resources and staff.
ACSM-AMSSM Call to Action: Adapting Preparticipation Cardiovascular Screening to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Baggish Aaron L. , Chang Cindy J. , Drezner Jonathan A. , Harmon Kimberly G. , Kraus William E. , Matuszak Jason , Wasfy Meagan M.
Published: May 2022

Preparticipation cardiovascular screening, designed to identify cardiovascular pathology responsible for sudden unexpected death, is recommended by all major professional medical organizations overseeing the clinical care of competitive athletes. Data from several large, prospective, cohort studies indicate that cardiac imaging findings consistent with inflammatory heart disease following COVID-19 infection are more common than most forms of heart disease associated with sudden death during exercise. This call-to-action document is intended to provide recommendations about how routine preparticipation cardiovascular screening for young competitive athletes — which has the capacity to detect both COVID-19 cardiovascular complications and pathology unrelated to infection — should be altered to account for recent scientific advances.
A Physical Activity Intervention in Older African Americans: The PAACE Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: NEWTON ROBERT L. , BEYL ROBBIE , HEBERT CALLIE , HARRIS MELISSA , CARTER LEAH , GAHAN WILLIAM , CARMICHAEL OWEN
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Older African Americans have low levels of physical activity, which increases the risk of aging-related health conditions. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of, and satisfaction with, a community-engaged physical activity intervention targeting older African Americans.

Methods

Fifty-six older African Americans were randomized to a successful aging group (SAG) or a physical activity group (PAG) for 12 wk. The PAG consisted of two weekly group exercise sessions and two to three home-based exercise sessions per week. The SAG consisted of weekly group educational sessions related to various aspects of healthy aging. Physical activity was measured by ActiGraph accelerometers and the Community Healthy Activities Model Program for Seniors Activities Questionnaire in both groups, and a Fitbit was continuously worn by PAG participants.

Results

Group session attendance was 93% and 86% in the PAG and SAG, respectively. The increase in ActiGraph-derived steps per day (1085.3 ± 265.6 vs 34.7 ± 274.3; P = 0.008) and daily minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA; 6.2 ± 1.6 vs 0.3 ± 1.7; d = 0.68; P = 0.01), and self-reported Community Healthy Activities Model Program for Seniors Activities Questionnaire MVPA bouts (3.5 ± 0.77 vs 0.33 ± 0.79; P < 0.001) were significantly greater within the PAG than the SAG. ActiGraph-derived minutes of daily MVPA and steps as well as Fitbit-derived steps per day were significantly greater on days when PAG participants engaged in group sessions compared with days when they self-reported home-based exercise or no exercise (P < 0.016). Participants in both study arms reported high levels of satisfaction (>4- on 5-point Likert scale).

Conclusions

The intervention increased physical activity, was well attended, and resulted in high satisfaction. Future studies should assess long-term sustainability in this population.
Diagnostic performance of DCE-MRI, multiparametric MRI and multimodality imaging for discrimination of breast non-mass-like enhancement lesions
Authors: Zang Hui , Liu Hong-li , Zhu Li-yu , Wang Xiao , Wei Liang-min , Lou Jian-juan , Zou Qi-gui , Wang Si-qi , Wang Shou-ju , Jiang Yan-ni
Published: May 2022

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the diagnostic performance of dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI, multiparametric MRI (mpMRI), and multimodality imaging (MMI) combining mpMRI and mammography (MG) for discriminating breast non-mass-like enhancement (NME) lesions.

Methods:

This retrospective study enrolled 193 patients with 199 lesions who underwent 3.0 T MRI and MG from January 2017 to December 2019. The features of DCE-MRI, turbo inversion recovery magnitude (TIRM), and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) were assessed by two breast radiologists. Then, all lesions were divided into microcalcification and non-microcalcification groups to assess the features of MG. Comparisons were performed between groups using univariate analyses. Then, multivariate analyses were performed to construct diagnostic models for distinguishing NME lesions. Diagnostic performance was evaluated by using the area under the curve (AUC) and the differences between AUCs were evaluated by using the DeLong test.

Results:

Overall (n = 199), mpMRI outperformed DCE-MRI alone (AUCmpMRI = 0.924 vs. AUCDCE-MRI = 0.884; p = 0.007). Furthermore, MMI outperformed both mpMRI and MG (the microcalcification group [n = 140]: AUCMMI = 0.997 vs. AUCmpMRI = 0.978, p = 0.018 and AUCMMI = 0.997 vs. AUCMG = 0.912, p < 0.001; the non-microcalcification group [n = 59]: AUCMMI = 0.857 vs. AUCmpMRI = 0.768, p = 0.044 and AUCMMI = 0.857 vs. AUCMG = 0.759, p = 0.039).

Conclusion & advances in knowledge:

DCE-MRI combined with DWI and TIRM information could improve the diagnostic performance for discriminating NME lesions compared with DCE-MRI alone. Furthermore, MMI combining mpMRI and MG showed better discrimination than both mpMRI and MG.
A rare case of gouty arthropathy in the spine complicated with acute cord compression
Authors: Fung Brian , Chong WH , Yu Chun Hung Kevin , Yang Siyue , Ho Cheuk Him , Angela Li On Chee
Published: May 2022

Gout is one of the most common inflammatory arthropathies in the developed world. However, involvement of the spine is relatively rare, and other sinister differential diagnoses will need to be considered. We describe an unusual case of gouty tophi deposition within the spine in an elderly patient presenting with signs and symptoms of acute cord compression. Important differential diagnoses that need to be excluded include bony metastases from underlying malignancy and other infective/inflammatory causes. Early recognition of imaging findings can avoid delayed or inappropriate medical treatment.
Salvaging low contrast abdominal CT studies using noise-optimised virtual monoenergetic image reconstruction
Authors: Mahmoudi Scherwin , Lange Marvin , Lenga Lukas , Yel Ibrahim , Koch Vitali , Booz Christian , Martin Simon , Bernatz Simon , Vogl Thomas , Albrecht Moritz , Scholtz Jan-Erik
Published: May 2022

Objectives:

To assess the impact of noise-optimised virtual monoenergetic imaging (VMI+) on image quality and diagnostic evaluation in abdominal dual-energy CT scans with impaired portal-venous contrast.

Methods:

We screened 11,746 patients who underwent portal-venous abdominal dual-energy CT for cancer staging between 08/2014 and 11/2019 and identified those with poor portal-venous contrast. Standard linearly-blended image series and VMI+ image series at 40, 50, and 60 keV were reconstructed. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of abdominal organs and vascular structures were calculated. Image noise, image contrast and overall image quality were rated by three radiologists using 5-point Likert scale.

Results:

452 of 11,746 (4%) exams were poorly opacified. We excluded 190 cases due to incomplete datasets or multiple exams of the same patient with a final study group of 262. Highest CNR values in all abdominal organs (liver, 6.4 ± 3.0; kidney, 17.4 ± 7.5; spleen, 8.0 ± 3.5) and vascular structures (aorta, 16.0 ± 7.3; intrahepatic vein, 11.3 ± 4.7; portal vein, 15.5 ± 6.7) were measured at 40 keV VMI+ with significantly superior values compared to all other series. In subjective analysis, highest image contrast was seen at 40 keV VMI+ (4.8 ± 0.4), whereas overall image quality peaked at 50 keV VMI+ (4.2 ± 0.5) with significantly superior results compared to all other series (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Image reconstruction using VMI+ algorithm at 50 keV significantly improves image contrast and image quality of originally poorly opacified abdominal CT scans and reduces the number of non-diagnostic scans.

Advances in knowledge:

We validated the impact of VMI+ reconstructions in poorly attenuated DECT studies of the abdomen in a big data cohort.
Clinicoradiological spectrum of primary aneurysmal bone cysts of the maxillofacial region: A series of 31 cases
Authors: Smit Chané , Robinson Liam , Roman Tager Elena , Roza Ana Luiza Oliveira Corrêa , Rocha André Caroli , Santos-Silva Alan Roger , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Romañach Mário José , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Carlos Román , van Heerden Willie FP
Published: May 2022

Objectives:

The aim of the current study was to analyse the demographic, clinical and radiological features of primary aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) involving the maxillofacial region.

Methods:

Histologically confirmed cases affecting the maxillofacial region were retrospectively reviewed over a 21-year period (2000–2021). Cases were collected from the archives of five Oral Pathology laboratories from three countries: South Africa, Guatemala and Brazil. The information was analysed, with emphasis on the clinical and radiological spectrum.

Results:

Following the inclusion criteria, a total of 31 cases of primary ABCs were included in the study. A nearly equal male-to-female distribution was seen, with ABCs occurring in males at an earlier age compared to females. Localised swelling was the main clinical presentation. ABCs had a mandibular predominance, particularly in the posterior regions. All ABCs presented as blow-out expansile well-demarcated radiolucent lesions with the majority having a multilocular appearance. Cortical expansion was seen in 91% of cases with loss of cortical integrity being common (78%).

Conclusion:

Primary ABCs involving the maxillofacial region are extremely rare with the majority of current published literature consisting of isolated case reports. The current study is the first large series detailing the radiological features.
Conformational heterogeneity of UCAAUC RNA oligonucleotide from molecular dynamics simulations, SAXS, and NMR experiments
Authors: Bergonzo Christina , Grishaev Alexander , Bottaro Sandro
Published: May 2022

We describe the conformational ensemble of the single-stranded r(UCAAUC) oligonucleotide obtained using extensive molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and Rosetta's FARFAR2 algorithm. The conformations observed in MD consist of A-form-like structures and variations thereof. These structures are not present in the pool generated using FARFAR2. By comparing with available nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements, we show that the presence of both A-form-like and other extended conformations is necessary to quantitatively explain experimental data. To further validate our results, we measure solution X-ray scattering (SAXS) data on the RNA hexamer and find that simulations result in more compact structures than observed from these experiments. The integration of simulations with NMR via a maximum entropy approach shows that small modifications to the MD ensemble lead to an improved description of the conformational ensemble. Nevertheless, we identify persisting discrepancies in matching experimental SAXS data.