bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endogenous Retroviruses Drive Lineage-Specific Regulatory Evolution across Primate and Rodent Placentae
Authors: Sun Ming-an , Wolf Gernot , Wang Yejun , Senft Anna D , Ralls Sherry , Jin Jinpu , Dunn-Fletcher Caitlin E , Muglia Louis J , Macfarlan Todd S
Published: July 2021

In mammals, the placenta mediates maternal–fetal nutrient and waste exchange and acts in an immunomodulatory way to facilitate maternal–fetal tolerance. The placenta is highly diverse across mammalian species, yet the molecular mechanisms that distinguish the placenta of human from other mammals are not fully understood. Using an interspecies transcriptomic comparison of human, macaque, and mouse late-gestation placentae, we identified hundreds of genes with lineage-specific expression—including dozens that are placentally enriched and potentially related to pregnancy. We further annotated the enhancers for different human tissues using epigenomic data and demonstrate that the placenta and chorion are unique in that their enhancers display the least conservation. We identified numerous lineage-specific human placental enhancers and found they highly overlap with specific families of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), including MER21A, MER41A/B, and MER39B that were previously linked to immune response and placental function. Among these ERV families, we further demonstrate that MER41A/B insertions create dozens of lineage-specific serum response factor-binding loci in human, including one adjacent to FBN2, a placenta-specific gene with increased expression in humans that produces the peptide hormone placensin to stimulate glucose secretion and trophoblast invasion. Overall, our results demonstrate the prevalence of lineage-specific placental enhancers which are frequently associated with ERV insertions and likely facilitate the lineage-specific evolution of the mammalian placenta.
Structure and dynamics of the quaternary hunchback mRNA translation repression complex
Authors: Macošek Jakub , Simon Bernd , Linse Johanna-Barbara , Jagtap Pravin Kumar Ankush , Winter Sophie L , Foot Jaelle , Lapouge Karine , Perez Kathryn , Rettel Mandy , Ivanović Miloš T , Masiewicz Pawel , Murciano Brice , Savitski Mikhail M , Loedige Inga , Hub Jochen S , Gabel Frank , Hennig Janosch
Published: July 2021

A key regulatory process during Drosophila development is the localized suppression of the hunchback mRNA translation at the posterior, which gives rise to a hunchback gradient governing the formation of the anterior-posterior body axis. This suppression is achieved by a concerted action of Brain Tumour (Brat), Pumilio (Pum) and Nanos. Each protein is necessary for proper Drosophila development. The RNA contacts have been elucidated for the proteins individually in several atomic-resolution structures. However, the interplay of all three proteins during RNA suppression remains a long-standing open question. Here, we characterize the quaternary complex of the RNA-binding domains of Brat, Pum and Nanos with hunchback mRNA by combining NMR spectroscopy, SANS/SAXS, XL/MS with MD simulations and ITC assays. The quaternary hunchback mRNA suppression complex comprising the RNA binding domains is flexible with unoccupied nucleotides functioning as a flexible linker between the Brat and Pum-Nanos moieties of the complex. Moreover, the presence of the Pum-HD/Nanos-ZnF complex has no effect on the equilibrium RNA binding affinity of the Brat RNA binding domain. This is in accordance with previous studies, which showed that Brat can suppress mRNA independently and is distributed uniformly throughout the embryo.
A nanoscale DNA force spectrometer capable of applying tension and compression on biomolecules
Authors: Wang Yuchen , Le Jenny V , Crocker Kyle , Darcy Michael A , Halley Patrick D , Zhao Dengke , Andrioff Nick , Croy Cassie , Poirier Michael G , Bundschuh Ralf , Castro Carlos E
Published: July 2021

Single molecule force spectroscopy is a powerful approach to probe the structure, conformational changes, and kinetic properties of biological and synthetic macromolecules. However, common approaches to apply forces to biomolecules require expensive and cumbersome equipment and relatively large probes such as beads or cantilevers, which limits their use for many environments and makes integrating with other methods challenging. Furthermore, existing methods have key limitations such as an inability to apply compressive forces on single molecules. We report a nanoscale DNA force spectrometer (nDFS), which is based on a DNA origami hinge with tunable mechanical and dynamic properties. The angular free energy landscape of the nDFS can be engineered across a wide range through substitution of less than 5% of the strand components. We further incorporate a removable strut that enables reversible toggling of the nDFS between open and closed states to allow for actuated application of tensile and compressive forces. We demonstrate the ability to apply compressive forces by inducing a large bend in a 249bp DNA molecule, and tensile forces by inducing DNA unwrapping of a nucleosome sample. These results establish a versatile tool for force spectroscopy and robust methods for designing nanoscale mechanical devices with tunable force application.
Activation of bivalent factor DLX5 cooperates with master regulator TP63 to promote squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Huang Yongsheng , Yang Qian , Zheng Yueyuan , Lin Lehang , Xu Xin , Xu Xiu-E , Silva Tiago C , Hazawa Masaharu , Peng Li , Cao Haotian , Ding Yanbing , Lu Daning , Berman Benjamin P , Xu Li-Yan , Li En-Min , Yin Dong
Published: July 2021

To reconstruct systematically hyperactive transcription factor (TF)-dependent transcription networks in squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), a computational method (ELMER) was applied to 1293 pan-SCC patient samples, and 44 hyperactive SCC TFs were identified. As a top candidate, DLX5 exhibits a notable bifurcate re-configuration of its bivalent promoter in cancer. Specifically, DLX5 maintains a bivalent state in normal tissues; its promoter is hypermethylation, leading to DLX5 transcriptional silencing in esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). In stark contrast, DLX5 promoter gains active histone marks and becomes transcriptionally activated in ESCC, which is directly mediated by SOX2. Functionally, silencing of DLX5 substantially inhibits SCC viability both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, DLX5 cooperates with TP63 in regulating ∼2000 enhancers and promoters, which converge on activating cancer-promoting pathways. Together, our data establish a novel and strong SCC-promoting factor and elucidate a new epigenomic mechanism - bifurcate chromatin re-configuration - during cancer development.
tRNAscan-SE 2.0: improved detection and functional classification of transfer RNA genes
Authors: Chan Patricia P , Lin Brian Y , Mak Allysia J , Lowe Todd M
Published: July 2021

tRNAscan-SE has been widely used for transfer RNA (tRNA) gene prediction for over twenty years, developed just as the first genomes were decoded. With the massive increase in quantity and phylogenetic diversity of genomes, the accurate detection and functional prediction of tRNAs has become more challenging. Utilizing a vastly larger training set, we created nearly one hundred specialized isotype- and clade-specific models, greatly improving tRNAscan-SE’s ability to identify and classify both typical and atypical tRNAs. We employ a new comparative multi-model strategy where predicted tRNAs are scored against a full set of isotype-specific covariance models, allowing functional prediction based on both the anticodon and the highest-scoring isotype model. Comparative model scoring has also enhanced the program's ability to detect tRNA-derived SINEs and other likely pseudogenes. For the first time, tRNAscan-SE also includes fast and highly accurate detection of mitochondrial tRNAs using newly developed models. Overall, tRNA detection sensitivity and specificity is improved for all isotypes, particularly those utilizing specialized models for selenocysteine and the three subtypes of tRNA genes encoding a CAU anticodon. These enhancements will provide researchers with more accurate and detailed tRNA annotation for a wider variety of tRNAs, and may direct attention to tRNAs with novel traits.
Allergic contact dermatitis in healthcare workers
Authors: Huang C , Greig D , Cheng H
Published: July 2021

Background

Allergic contact dermatitis is a common occupational skin disease among healthcare workers (HCWs).

Aims

This study describes causes of allergic contact dermatitis in New Zealand HCWs.

Methods

All HCWs undergoing patch testing between July 2008 and January 2020 at a public hospital patch test clinic and between June 2019 and January 2020 at a private dermatology clinic were included. Data collected included patient demographics, occupation, results of patch testing and pre- and post-patch test diagnoses.

Results

Out of 837 patients tested, 67 were HCWs. The mean age of HCWs was 41 years (SD 14) and 58 (87%) were female. The most common occupations were nurses (40%), allied health (22%) and doctors (18%). Forty-six (69%) patients had a background of atopic dermatitis. Hand dermatitis was the most common presentation (49%), followed by facial/neck dermatitis (25%). Thirty-eight (57%) had at least one positive reaction on patch testing, including 19 (28%) with a positive result of current relevance. There were 16 relevant reactions to rubber accelerators, 11 to fragrances, 10 to preservatives and 6 to corticosteroids. The most frequent relevant allergens were methylisothiazolinone/methylchloroisothiazolinone (4%), hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (4%) and methylisothiazolinone (4%).

Conclusions

The most common allergens in HCWs were rubber chemicals, fragrances, preservatives and topical corticosteroids. Important allergens for patch testing HCWs are outlined, in particular, those with hand dermatitis should be tested to a rubber series.
Does misery love company? An experimental investigation
Authors: Farrow Katherine , Grolleau Gilles , Ibanez Lisette
Published: July 2021

The conventional wisdom summarized in the adage ‘misery loves company’ suggests that suffering can be made easier to bear if it is also shared by others. Given increasing interest in subjective well-being and happiness as constituents of national wealth and priorities in policy-making and organizational management, we empirically investigate the validity of this phenomenon in order to explore whether it may be possible to mitigate decreases in subjective well-being simply by leveraging social comparison. We implement an experimental survey designed to gauge the suitability of this strategy on a representative sample of approximately 2,000 US residents. Our results indicate that, while this hypothesis is indeed borne out among certain populations within the sample, we find stronger and more widespread support for the opposite phenomenon, suggesting rather that ‘happiness hates company’. These novel findings can inform policy interventions aiming to enhance well-being and point to promising avenues for further work.
Movement Patterns and Their Associations With Pain, Function, and Hip Morphology in Individuals With Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome: A Scoping Review
Authors: Alrashdi Naif Z , Brown-Taylor Lindsey , Bell Megan M , Ithurburn Matthew P
Published: July 2021

Objective

The purpose of the study was to synthesize studies of movement patterns and their association with hip pain, function/activity, and morphology in individuals with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS).

Methods

PubMed, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched using predefined terms. Two authors independently reviewed abstracts and full texts. Studies were included if they enrolled individuals with FAIS, reported kinematic or kinetic data during movement tasks, and tested the data’s associations with hip pain, function/activity, or morphology. Exclusion criteria were studies that did not evaluate associations between movement patters and pain, function/activity, or hip morphology. Additionally, studies with hip conditions other than FAIS, case reports, conference proceedings, review articles, and non-English studies were excluded. Descriptive consolidation and qualitative synthesis were performed for the included studies.

Results

Of the 1155 potential studies, 5 studies met all eligibility criteria. Movement patterns were evaluated during walking (n = 4) and squatting (n = 1). Studies reported multiple associations between variables of interest. Statistically significant associations were identified between movement patterns and hip pain (n = 2), function/activity (n = 2), or morphology (n = 3). Significant associations included increased hip flexion moment impulse during walking was associated with worse pain, increased hip flexion moment during walking was associated with worse hip function, decreased hip external rotation during gait and hip internal rotation during squat were associated with larger cam deformity, and increased hip flexion moment impulse during walking was also associated with more severe acetabular cartilage abnormalities.

Conclusions

Very little current evidence has evaluated the associations between altered movement patterns and hip pain, function/activity, or morphology in individuals with FAIS, and only low-intensity tasks have been tested. These studies found some preliminary associations between altered hip biomechanics and higher hip pain, worse hip function, and specific measures of hip morphology in individuals with FAIS.

Impact

This review is a first step in gaining a better understanding of movement patterns and their associations with hip pain, function/activity, and morphology, which could ultimately assist with the development of movement retraining interventions and potentially improve rehabilitation outcomes for those with FAIS.
Rheumatoid factor positivity in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: a distinct clinical entity or innocent bystander?
Authors: Ahn Sung Soo , Ha Jang Woo , Park Yong-Beom , Lee Sang-Won
Published: July 2021

Objective

To investigate the significance of RF positivity in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) patients.

Methods

AAV patients were divided into groups as follows: RF (+)/ANCA (+) (n = 94), RF (−)/ANCA (+) (n = 80), RF (+)/ANCA (−) (n = 15) and RF (−)/ANCA (−) (n = 25). Their clinical data, organ involvement patterns, laboratory data, and patient outcomes were assessed. Kaplan–Meier analysis and propensity score matching (PSM) were performed to compare outcomes and analyse differences between the groups.

Results

Of the 214 patients, RF and ANCA positivity was found in 109 (50.9%) and 174 (81.3%) patients, respectively. RF (+)/ANCA (+) patients more frequently presented with general manifestations (58.5%) than the other groups. Additionally, compared with those of RF (−)/ANCA (+) group, RF (+)/ANCA (+) patients were older, had higher white blood cell, neutrophil, platelet counts and acute phase reactants; however, creatinine and albumin levels were lower. The end-stage kidney disease-free survival rate was significantly higher in the RF (+)/ANCA (+) group (P =0.013), while the proportion of renal involvement was comparable to the RF (−)/ANCA (+) group. PSM showed no difference in patient outcomes between the two groups after adjustment.

Conclusion

RF positivity was associated with a distinct phenotype in AAV patients. In particular, difference was observed in clinical features and outcomes between RF (+)/ANCA (+) and RF (−)/ANCA (+) groups, although the direct prognostic implication of RF was not evident.
Deep Ancestral Introgression Shapes Evolutionary History of Dragonflies and Damselflies
Authors: Suvorov Anton , Scornavacca Celine , Fujimoto M Stanley , Bodily Paul , Clement Mark , Crandall Keith A , Whiting Michael F , Schrider Daniel R , Bybee Seth M
Published: July 2021

Introgression is an important biological process affecting at least 10% of the extant species in the animal kingdom. Introgression significantly impacts inference of phylogenetic species relationships where a strictly binary tree model cannot adequately explain reticulate net-like species relationships. Here, we use phylogenomic approaches to understand patterns of introgression along the evolutionary history of a unique, nonmodel insect system: dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata). We demonstrate that introgression is a pervasive evolutionary force across various taxonomic levels within Odonata. In particular, we show that the morphologically “intermediate” species of Anisozygoptera (one of the three primary suborders within Odonata besides Zygoptera and Anisoptera), which retain phenotypic characteristics of the other two suborders, experienced high levels of introgression likely coming from zygopteran genomes. Additionally, we find evidence for multiple cases of deep inter-superfamilial ancestral introgression. [Gene flow; Odonata; phylogenomics; reticulate evolution.]
Efficacy of Fungicides for Pseudoperonospora cubensis Determined Using Bioassays over Multiple Years in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern United States
Authors: Jones Jake G. , Everts Kathryne L. , McGrath Margaret T. , Gugino Beth K.
Published: July 2021

In the United States, fungicides are the primary management option for cucumber growers to protect their crops from Pseudoperonospora cubensis, the causal agent of cucurbit downy mildew. Pathogen resistance to some fungicides can quickly develop with the repeated applications needed to protect yield. In order to determine fungicide efficacy and monitor it over time, bioassays were conducted from 2016 to 2019 in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York. Potted cucumber plants were either sprayed with fungicides or not treated, placed next to field-grown plants with cucurbit downy mildew for up to 2 days, and then kept in a greenhouse until symptoms developed. Severity of symptoms or number of lesions on leaves was recorded 6 to 14 days after exposure started and used to determine fungicide efficacy. Quadris (azoxystrobin) was ineffective in seven of the nine bioassays, and Revus (mandipropamid) was ineffective in six of seven bioassays. Forum (dimethomorph) and Presidio (fluopicolide) were ineffective in three of eight and four of nine bioassays, respectively. The most effective fungicides were Bravo (chlorothalonil), Zing! (zoxamide + chlorothalonil), and Orondis (oxathiapiprolin), all of which consistently suppressed disease severity more than 90% when compared with the untreated control. Previcur Flex (propamocarb hydrochloride) and Ranman (cyazofamid) were also effective in every bioassay.
Maize and Common Bean Seed Exudates Mediate Part of Nonhost Resistance to Phytophthora sojae Prior to Infection
Authors: Zhang Zhuoqun , Zhao Yifan , An Tai , Yu Han , Bi Xiangqi , Liu Haixu , Xu Ying , Yang Zhiyue , Chen Yufei , Wen Jingzhi
Published: July 2021

Phytophthora sojae does not infect nonhost maize (Zea mays) but infects nonhost common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) under inoculation. Soybean seed exudates participate in mediating host resistance to P. sojae before infection. This study aims to elucidate the role of seed exudates in mediating the nonhost resistance of maize and common bean to P. sojae before infection. The behaviors of P. sojae zoospores in response to the seed exudates were determined using an assay chamber and a concave slide. The proteomes of P. sojae zoospores in response to the seed exudates were analyzed with the tandem mass tag method. The key proteins were quantitatively verified by parallel reaction monitoring. Maize seed exudates exerted a repellent effect on zoospores of P. sojae. This result explains why zoospores sense repelling signaling molecules in maize seed exudates that weaken and strongly inhibit chemotaxis signals in the phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway and arachidonic acid metabolism pathway. Common bean seed exudates did not exhibit any attraction to the zoospores because the guanine nucleotide-binding protein signaling pathway, which is responsible for transmitting chemotactic signals, had no significant change. The proteins protecting the cell membrane structure were significantly downregulated, and the early apoptosis signal glutathione was enhanced in zoospores responding to common bean seed exudates, which resulted in dissolution of the cysts. Maize and common bean seed exudates mediate part of the nonhost resistance to P. sojae via different mechanisms before infection. The immunity of maize to P. sojae is caused by the repellent effect of maize seed exudates on zoospores. Common bean seed exudates participate in mediating nonhost resistance by dissolving the cysts.
4: ACTA2+ Cells Activation and Dermal Changes During Skin Adaptation to Mechanical Forces
Authors: Chang Alec B. , Ledwon Joanna K. , Kelsey Lauren J. , Kearney Aaron , Applebaum Sarah A. , Gosain Arun K.
Published: July 2021

Purpose: Tissue expansion (TE) is based on the skin’s exceptional ability to regenerate under mechanical stress and is widely used to repair skin defects. However, knowledge about molecular mechanisms involved in maintaining skin integrity and homeostasis is limited. The present study aims 1) to elucidate the role of myofibroblasts in the mechanism of adaptation to mechanical stress exerted by an inflated tissue expander, and 2) to describe morphological changes in collagen structure that could lead to the re-establishment of dermal tension.

Methods: TE was performed on a porcine model. Each expander was placed subcutaneously over the ribs and two weeks later inflated with 30 cc of saline to induce subtle tension. After 1 day (acute stretch) and 7 days (sub-acute stretch) of expansion, the full-thickness skin biopsies were collected from the apex of the expander and control unexpanded skin (contralateral sites). Skin samples were fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin for histological evaluation (Russell-Movat Pentachrome staining) or fixed in 4% PFA and embedded in OCT for immunohistochemistry staining (IF) of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), a marker of myofibroblast. Area of fluorescent signal from α-SMA was calculated using ImageJ while collagen morphology was evaluated optically after staining.

Results: We compared the presence of α-SMA fluorescence between control biopsies and expanded biopsies after 1-day and 7-days of stretch. The immunofluorescence staining revealed 2.32 times more α-SMA fluorescent staining in skin expanded for 1 day (p = 0.0065) and 2.19 times more α-SMA fluorescence in skin expanded for 7 days (p = 0.0047). The increase in number of α-SMA positive cells were mostly observed in the outermost 400µm of papillary dermis. Histological staining showed minimal collagen morphological changes in both the papillary and reticular dermis after 1-day of expansion. However, shortening of fibril length, increased density, and increased disorder were observed in the papillary dermis collagen after 7-days of subtle expansion.
QS2: Outcomes Of Pediatric Dynamic Facial Reanimation After Two Decades
Authors: Zuo Kevin J. , Heinelt Martina , Ho Emily , Borschel Gregory , Zuker Ronald
Published: July 2021

Purpose: Pediatric facial paralysis has substantial functional consequences in a growing child including impaired quality of life. Microneurovascular facial reanimation is the gold standard for smile reconstruction; however, quantitative data are lacking regarding long-term outcomes, particularly beyond 10 years. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term surgical and patient-reported outcomes after dynamic reconstruction of unilateral facial paralysis in childhood.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed of patients in our institutional facial paralysis database (1978-2008) who underwent dynamic reconstruction of unilateral facial paralysis 20 or more years ago. All patients were treated as children with a staged cross face nerve graft and free functioning muscle transfer. Frontal facial photographs in repose and maximal smile prior to surgery, within 2 years post-surgery, and at long term follow-up were analyzed using the MEEI Face-Gram software for commissure excursion. Patient-reported outcomes were obtained using the FaCE Scale for subjective facial impairment and disability, as well as the FACE-Q Satisfaction with Outcome and FACE-Q Social Function scales. Results are reported as median [IQR] and non-parametric statistical analysis was performed with alpha of 0.05.

Results: Eleven patients were included with long term follow-up of 23.7 [5.6] years (6 females, 5 males; 5 congenital, 6 acquired; age at surgery 7.3 [6.3] years). For surgical quantitative measures, commissure excursion significantly improved from prior to surgery (-1.3 [7.4] mm) compared to follow up within 2 years post-surgery (7.0 [1.7] mm) (p<0.05) and from prior to surgery compared to long term follow-up (8.3 [4.9] mm) (p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in commissure excursion within 2 years post-surgery and at long term follow-up (p>0.05). For patient-reported outcomes, median FaCE Scale scores showed good function for social function (81/100), oral function (88/100), facial comfort (92/100), and overall score (75/100). On the FACE-Q Satisfaction with Outcome scale, 10/11 respondents somewhat agreed or definitely agreed with the statement, “I am pleased with the result.” On the FACE-Q Social Function scale, 10/11 respondents somewhat agreed or definitely agreed with the statements, “I make a good first impression” and “I feel confident when I participate in group situations.”

Conclusion: Dynamic reconstruction of unilateral facial paralysis in young children improves commissure excursion that is maintained at long-term follow up. As adults, these patients report a high level of satisfaction and social functioning with their smile reconstruction.
QS10: TOWARD AN OBJECTIVE OUTCOME IN FACIAL REJUVENATION SURGERY: AN EYETRACKING STUDY
Authors: Boonipat Thanapoom M. , Muro Jose , Hebel Nathan , Lin Jason , Bite Uldis , Stotland Mitchell
Published: July 2021

Purpose: The availability of an objective outcome measure for facial reconstructive surgery remains elusive. Evaluations submitted by external raters or by patient self-report are subjective, and may unreliably convey how one is perceived by others. We are interested in observers’ instantaneous responses to the human face. The goal of modern facelift and associated procedures for facial rejuvenation are to achieved subtle differences that lead to the perception of youth and attractiveness, yet the observer cannot pinpoint what exactly have been done to the patient’s face. We explored the visual markers that lead to differential perception of patients before and after facial rejuvenation surgery (high SMAS facelift, neck lift, fat grafting, brow lifts and blepharoplasty).

Methods: 40 images were obtained which portrayed pre and post operative photos of patients who underwent high SMAS facelift, fat grafting, and browlifts and blepharoplasty for facial rejuvenation. Photographs were obtained before and after surgical correction (>3 months postop). 40 observers examined the images while an infrared eye-tracking camera recorded their eye movements. The observers were then asked to rate the image for character attributes (attractiveness, trustworthiness, sociability, healthy, and capability, 1-7 scale, and also estimate the age of the patient).

Results: (i) The surgical intervention was found to decrease observers’ attention to the cervical region, but did not change how other areas are perceived significantly.(ii) The surgical intervention was found to significantly increase the character ratings for all five attributes compared to pre op controls: (sociable 3.53 to 4.18, trustworthy 3.85 to 4.20, attractive 3.34 to 3.3.90, health 4.07 to 4.61, capable 3.91 to 4.43.(iii) Average age estimate of the photos decreased significantly from 54 years (SD 6) to 48.6 years (SD 5.2), with true average age of 57.4 (7.6).

Conclusion: We provide data illustrating a novel and objective technique to evaluate the effect of reconstructive intervention for facial rejuvenation. Consistent with the goals of subtle facial rejuvenation, the observers did not detect any particular areas of difference post operatively, but gain a more favorable impression of the person, and also perceived them as younger by a decade compared to their true age.
Education to Improve Point of Care Documentation in Home Care Nurses
Authors: Husson Nancy M. , Trangenstein Patricia A. , Ketel Christian
Published: July 2021

Home care nurses are expected to document their care delivery while in the patients' homes. Point of care documentation ensures that information in the EHR is accurate, timely, and accessible to all care team members. Standard training emphasized the features and functions of the different tabs within the electronic record. Managers and nurses reported standard training was not effective. The purpose of this project was to perform a post-implementation evaluation of the incorporation of point of care documentation, using case study scenarios, into the EHR training to determine if there was improved timeliness of documentation by new home care nurses. Quantitative data showed no statistical difference between the pre-implementation and post-implementation participants on completion of documentation within 24 hours from the small sample groups. Quantitative data from training evaluations showed a positive impact on learners' confidence and willingness to complete point of care documentation. Qualitative results showed participants viewed scenario-based training as interactive, meaningful, and indicative of a change in practice to include point of care documentation in the patients' home. The results suggest continued evaluation of the use of scenario-based education with point of care documentation as a format for more effective EHR training.
Physical activity domains are differently related with quality of life in breast cancer survivors: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ribeiro Fernanda E. , Tebar William R. , Vanderlei Luiz Carlos M. , Fregonesi Cristina E.P.T. , Caldeira Daniela T. , Tosello Giuliano , Palma Mariana R. , Christofaro Diego G. D.
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

Treatments for breast cancer (BC) can lead to physical and mental impairments which may affect quality of life (QoL). Physical activity (PA) is highly recommended for this population due to its protective effect against BC relapse and its ability to reduce the health impact of treatment. However, it is not clear whether the different domains of PA are associated with better QoL of BC survivors. The current study aimed to verify the relationship between different PA domains with QoL of BC survivors.

Methods:

The sample consisted of 128 women BC survivors, with a mean age of 58.2 ± 9.7 years. QoL was assessed using the Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) and PA was verified through the Baecke questionnaire, in domains of occupation, sports practice, and leisure time/commuting. The relationship between QoL and different PA domains was verified by linear regression, adjusted by age, marital status, and socioeconomic condition.

Results:

Occupational PA was negatively related to physical limitations [β= −15.36 (−29.04 to −1.68] and body pain [β=−6.61 (−14.53 to 1.31) marginal association]. Sports practice was positively related to functional capacity [β= 4.24 (0.60 to 7.88)]. Leisure time/commuting PA was positively related to functional capacity [β = 7.17 (3.09 to 11.26)], vitality [β = 4.30 (0.39 to 8.22)], social aspects [β= 5.47 (0.80 to 10.15)], and mental health [β = 4.08 (0.40 to 7.75)].

Conclusions:

Sports practice and leisure time/commuting PA were positively related to QoL in BC survivors, while occupational PA was negatively related to QoL, independently of age, marital status, and socioeconomic condition.
Aldosterone-producing adenoma-harbouring KCNJ5 mutations is associated with lower prevalence of metabolic disorders and abdominal obesity
Authors: Chen Kuan-Ming , Chang Yu-Ling , Wu Tung-Hsin , Lee Bo-Ching , Chen Po-Ting , Liu Kao-Lang , Hong Jia-Sheng , Chang Chin-Chen , Wu Vin-Cent , Lin Yen-Hung
Published: July 2021

Objective:

Aldosterone overproduction and lipid metabolic disturbances between idiopathic hyperaldosteronism (IHA) and unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) have been inconsistently linked in patients with primary aldosteronism. Moreover, KCNJ5 mutations are prevalent among APAs and enhance aldosterone synthesis in adrenal cortex. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in each primary aldosteronism subtype and observe the role of KCNJ5 mutations among APAs on the distribution of abdominal adipose tissues quantified using computed tomography (CT), including their changes postadrenalectomy.

Design and methods:

We retrospectively collected 244 and 177 patients with IHA and APA at baseline. Patients with APA had undergone adrenalectomy, and gene sequencing revealed the absence (n = 75) and presence (n = 102) of KCNJ5 mutations. We also recruited 31 patients with APA who had undergone CT-scan 1-year postadrenalectomy.

Results:

The patients with APA harbouring KCNJ5 mutations had significantly lower prevalence of MetS and smaller distribution in waist circumference, subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) than the other groups. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the VAT area correlated significantly with KCNJ5 mutations among the APAs. Only participants with KCNJ5 mutations had significant increases in triglycerides, cholesterol, SAT, and VAT after 1-year postadrenalectomy.

Conclusion:

This study is the first to demonstrate that MetS and abdominal obesity were less prevalent in the patients with APA harbouring KCNJ5 mutations compared with the IHA group and the non-KCNJ5-mutated APA group. Increasing prevalence of dyslipidaemia and abdominal obesity was observed in patients with KCNJ5 mutations 1-year postadrenalectomy.
Students' Perceptions Regarding the Influence of a Home Health Interprofessional Simulation Experience: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Cunningham Shala , Cunningham Cynthia , Howes Meghan , Metz Alyse Marie , Liang Anzhu
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Interprofessional health care teams are essential for clinical decision making when providing care for patients with complex medical histories in the community setting. The purpose of this mixed methods, quasi-experimental study was to explore health care students' perceptions of communication and collaboration after an interprofessional simulation in a community health environment. Although interprofessional collaboration in community settings has been shown to improve patient outcomes and perceived quality of life, little emphasis has been placed on how to prepare future health care providers for interprofessional practice in this challenging environment.

Methods:

This study used a sample of convenience of 87 health care students (30 physical therapist students, 34 nursing students, and 23 emergency medical services students) enrolled in 2 education institutions in Southwest Virginia. Quantitative data were collected using the 21-item Interprofessional Socialization and Valuing Scale (ISVS-21). Qualitative data, collected through focus group interviews, were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results:

Overall, students improved their perception on all items on the ISVS-21. The students in this study were also able to reflect on their profession's role in the community health setting, discuss key information to be shared to ensure the continuity of patient care, and explore an effective handoff process between professions.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Students gained understanding of each professions' perceptions of care priorities in the community and the different communication strategies may better prepare the students to enter the diverse and complex community health care environment.
Envisioning a Technology-Enhanced Competency Checklist
Authors: Bethel Claire
Published: July 2021

A technology-enhanced approach to competency checklists provides many benefits over paper checklists. The Informatics Research Organizing Model provides a conceptual framework to guide vision technology-enhanced competency checklists. Electronic integration of competency checklists with online policies and procedures information has the potential to enable nurses to practice in accordance with hospital policies and procedures, despite constant change in the healthcare system, and in turn impact nurse-sensitive patient outcomes.
Evaluation of Unscheduled Return Visits to the Pediatric Emergency Department and Risk Factors for Admission After Return Visit
Authors: Kurt Funda , Hanalioğlu Damla , Can Fatmanur , Kurtipek Fatma Eren , Yakut Halil İbrahim , Misirlioğlu Emine Dibek
Published: July 2021

Objective

Unscheduled return visits to the emergency department (unscheduled RTED) increase both the workload and overcrowding in the emergency department. The aim in the present study is to identify the patient groups that require more careful and closer follow-up to reduce the rates of unscheduled RTED and hospital admissions after a return visit.

Methods

Among the patients admitted to the emergency department of our hospital between 2016 and 2017, those who made an unscheduled RTED within 72 hours after their first visit to the emergency department were evaluated retrospectively.

Results

Of the 137,787 eligible children, 3294 (2.8%) made unscheduled RTEDs within 72 hours. The median age was 28 months, and 1848 (57.6%) were male patients. The admission rate at the return visit was significantly higher among children younger than 2 years, in the patients presenting with respiratory complaints and severe acute conditions, and in those who presented to the emergency department for the first time during the department's busiest hours. The risk of admission upon a return visit to the emergency department was 2.7 times higher in the male sex, 5.4 times higher in children younger than 2 years, 5.9 times higher in patients with respiratory complaints, 4.9 times higher in patients with gastrointestinal tract complaints, and 27,000 times higher in patients with severe acute conditions.

Conclusions

Unscheduled RTED and hospitalization rates can be reduced with more careful evaluation of young children, patients with respiratory and gastrointestinal complaints and those who apply during emergency department busiest hours.
An evolutionary process without variation and selection
Authors: Gabora Liane , Steel Mike
Published: July 2021

Natural selection successfully explains how organisms accumulate adaptive change despite that traits acquired over a lifetime are eliminated at the end of each generation. However, in some domains that exhibit cumulative, adaptive change—e.g. cultural evolution, and earliest life—acquired traits are retained; these domains do not face the problem that Darwin’s theory was designed to solve. Lack of transmission of acquired traits occurs when germ cells are protected from environmental change, due to a self-assembly code used in two distinct ways: (i) actively interpreted during development to generate a soma, and (ii) passively copied without interpretation during reproduction to generate germ cells. Early life and cultural evolution appear not to involve a self-assembly code used in these two ways. We suggest that cumulative, adaptive change in these domains is due to a lower-fidelity evolutionary process, and model it using reflexively autocatalytic and foodset-generated networks. We refer to this more primitive evolutionary process as self–other reorganization (SOR) because it involves internal self-organizing and self-maintaining processes within entities, as well as interaction between entities. SOR encompasses learning but in general operates across groups. We discuss the relationship between SOR and Lamarckism, and illustrate a special case of SOR without variation.
SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant pathogenesis and host response in Syrian hamsters
Authors: Sreelekshmy Mohandas , Dhruv Yadav Pragya , Anita Shete , Dimpal Nyayanit , Gajanan Sapkal , Kavita Lole , Nivedita Gupta
Published: July 2021

B.1.617 lineage is becoming a dominant SARS-CoV-2 lineage worldwide and was the dominant lineage reported in second COVID-19 wave in India, which necessitated studying the properties of the variant. We evaluated the pathogenicity and virus shedding of B.1.617.2 (Delta) and B.1.617.3 lineage of SARS-CoV-2 and compared with that of B.1, an early virus isolate with D614G mutation in Syrian hamster model. Viral load, antibody response and lung disease were studied. No significant difference in the virus shedding pattern was observed among these variants studied. A significantly high SARS-CoV-2 sub genomic RNA could be detected in the respiratory tract of hamsters infected with Delta variant for 14 days. Delta variant induced lung disease of moderate severity in 40% of infected animals. The neutralizing capability of the B.1, Delta and B.1.617.3 variant infected animals were found significantly lower with the B.1.351 (Beta variant). The findings of the study support the attributed disease severity and the increased transmission potential of the Delta variant.
Safety and efficacy of COVID-19 hyperimmune globulin (HIG) solution in the treatment of active COVID-19 infection- Findings from a Prospective, Randomized, Controlled, Multi-Centric Trial
Authors: Parikh Devang , Chaturvedi Alok , Shah Naman , Patel Piyush , Patel Ronak , Ray Suma
Published: July 2021

Background

COVID-19 hyper-immune globulin (HIG) solution is a human plasma-derived, highly-purified, concentrated, virus-inactivated preparation of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against COVID-19.

Methods

This was a randomized, two-arm, controlled, multi-center trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of COVID-19 HIG in patients who were hospitalized with moderate-severe COVID-19 infection.

Results

A total of 60 patients were randomized (30 in each arm). Overall, COVID-19 HIG was well-tolerated without any serious treatment-emergent adverse event or tolerability issue. The mean change in ordinal scale by day 8 was 1.7±1.61 in the test arm vs. 2.0±1.68 in the control arm (mITT; p=0.367). Early and high NAbs were observed in the test arm compared to the control arm.

More patients had negative RT-PCR by day 3 for the test arm vs. the control arm (mITT: 46.67% in test vs. 37.93% in control). The median time to be RT-PCR negative was 5.5 days for the test arm vs. 8.0 days for the control arm for PP population. Patients receiving COVID-19 HIG showed early improvement (reduction) in the biomarkers (CRP, IL-6, and D-dimer).

Conclusion

COVID-19 HIG was found to be safe and well-tolerated. Early and high NAbs were achieved in COVID-19 HIG recipients qualifying the product as a suitable treatment option, particularly in an immunocompromised state. It should be given early in infection to mitigate progression to severe disease. It should be evaluated for post-exposure prophylaxis as well as for prevention (where a vaccine is not suitable or effective). It should be evaluated in the pediatric population as well.
Untangling Microbiota Diversity and Assembly Patterns in the World’s Largest Water Diversion Canal
Authors: Zhang Lu , Yin Wei , Wang Chao , Zhang Aijing , Zhang Hong , Zhang Tong , Ju Feng
Published: July 2021

Large water diversion projects are important constructions for reallocation of human-essential water resources. Deciphering microbiota dynamics and assembly mechanisms underlying canal water ecosystem services especially during long-distance diversion is the prerequisite for water quality monitoring, biohazard warning and sustainable management. Using a 1432-km canal of the South-to-North Water Diversion Projects as a model system, we answer three central questions: how bacterial and micro-eukaryotic communities spatio-temporally develop, how much ecological stochasticity contributes to microbiota assembly, and which immigrating populations better survive and navigate across the canal. We applied quantitative ribosomal RNA gene sequence analyses to investigate canal water microbial communities sampled over a year, as well as null model- and neutral model-based approaches to disentangle the microbiota assembly processes. Our results showed clear microbiota dynamics in community composition driven by seasonality more than geographic location, and seasonally dependent influence of environmental parameters. Overall, bacterial community was largely shaped by deterministic processes, whereas stochasticity dominated micro-eukaryotic community assembly. We defined a local growth factor (LGF) and demonstrated its innovative use to quantitatively infer microbial proliferation, unraveling taxonomically dependent population response to local environmental selection across canal sections. Using LGF as a quantitative indicator of immigrating capacities, we also found that most micro-eukaryotic populations (82%) from the source lake water sustained growth in the canal and better acclimated to the hydrodynamical water environment than bacteria (67%). Taxa inferred to largely propagate includeLimnohabitanssp. andCryptophyceae, potentially contributing to water auto-purification. Combined, our work poses first and unique insights into the microbiota assembly patterns and dynamics in the world’s largest water diversion canal, providing important ecological knowledge for long-term sustainable water quality maintenance in such a giant engineered system.
Bmmp influences wing shape by regulating anterior-posterior and proximal-distal axis development
Authors: Zou Yunlong , Ding Xin , Zhang Li , Xu Lifeng , Liang Shubo , Hu Hai , Dai Fangyin , Tong Xiaoling
Published: July 2021

Insect wings are subject to strong selective pressure, resulting in the evolution of remarkably diverse wing shapes that largely determine flight capacity. However, the genetic basis and regulatory mechanisms underlying wing shape development are not well understood. The silkworm Bombyx mori micropterous (mp) mutant exhibits shortened wing length and enlarged vein spacings, albeit without changes in total wing area. Thus, the mp mutant comprises a valuable genetic resource for studying wing shape development. In this study, we used molecular mapping to identify the gene responsible for the mp phenotype and designated it Bmmp. Phenotype-causing mutations were identified as indels and single nucleotide polymorphisms in non-coding regions. These mutations resulted in decreased Bmmp mRNA levels and changes in transcript isoform composition. Bmmp null mutants were generated by CRISPR/Cas9 and exhibited significantly smaller wings. By examining the expression of genes critical to wing development in wildtype and Bmmp null mutants, we found that Bmmp exerts its function by coordinately modulating anterior-posterior and proximal-distal axis development. We also studied a Drosophila mp mutant and found that Bmmp is functionally conserved in Drosophila. The Drosophila mp mutant strain exhibits curly wings of reduced size and a complete loss of flight capacity. Our results increase our understanding of the mechanisms underpinning insect wing development and reveal potential targets for pest control.
The generation of a Bcl11a lineage tracing mouse model
Authors: Pensa Sara , Liu Pentao , Khaled Walid T.
Published: July 2021

The transcription factor B-cell lymphoma/leukaemia 11A (BCL11A) has essential functions in physiological processes as well as haematological and solid malignancies, however, its contribution to tissue development and tumour progression is poorly understood. Here we show the generation of aBcl11alineage tracing mouse model to allow forin vivotracking ofBcl11a-expressing cells and their progeny. We validate the model in the mammary gland by using flow cytometry and whole-tissue 3D imaging to locate labelled cells after induction of tracing in early development. We show thatBcl11ais predominantly expressed in long-lived luminal progenitors which populate mammary alveoli upon pregnancy, confirmingbona fidelabelling ofBcl11acells. TheBcl11alineage tracing mouse model therefore provides a powerful resource to studyBcl11acells in development, homeostasis, and cancer.