bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning for COVID-19 drug discovery and vaccine design
Authors: Lv Hao , Shi Lei , Berkenpas Joshua William , Dao Fu-Ying , Zulfiqar Hasan , Ding Hui , Zhang Yang , Yang Liming , Cao Renzhi
Published: July 2021

The global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has led to a dramatic loss of human life worldwide. Despite many efforts, the development of effective drugs and vaccines for this novel virus will take considerable time. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) offer promising solutions that could accelerate the discovery and optimization of new antivirals. Motivated by this, in this paper, we present an extensive survey on the application of AI and ML for combating COVID-19 based on the rapidly emerging literature. Particularly, we point out the challenges and future directions associated with state-of-the-art solutions to effectively control the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that this review provides researchers with new insights into the ways AI and ML fight and have fought the COVID-19 outbreak.
Masquerading predators deceive prey by aggressively mimicking bird droppings in a crab spider
Authors: Yu Long , Xu Xin , Zhang Zengtao , Painting Christina J , Yang Xiaodong , Li Daiqin
Published: July 2021

In aggressive mimicry, a predator accesses prey by mimicking the appearance and/or behavior of a harmless or beneficial model in order to avoid being correctly identified by its prey. The crab spider genus Phrynarachne is often cited as a textbook example of masquerading as bird droppings (BDs) in order to avoid predation. However, Phrynarachne spiders may also aggressively mimic BDs in order to deceive potential prey. To date, there is no experimental evidence to support aggressive mimicry in masquerading crab spiders; therefore, we performed a field survey, a manipulative field experiment, and visual modeling to test this hypothesis using Phrynarachne ceylonica. We compared prey-attraction rates among BDs, spiders, and control empty leaves in the field. We found that although all prey combined and agromyzid dipterans, in particular, were attracted to BDs at a higher rate than to spiders, other dipterans and hymenopterans were attracted to BDs at a similar rate as to spiders. Both spiders and BDs attracted insects at a significantly higher rate than did control leaves. As predicted, prey was attracted to experimentally blackened or whitened spiders significantly less frequently than to unmanipulated spiders. Finally, visual modeling suggested that spiders and BDs can be detected by dipterans and hymenopterans against background leaves, but they are indistinguishable from each other. Taken together, our results suggest that insects lured by spiders may misidentify them as BDs, and bird-dropping masquerading may serve as aggressive mimicry in addition to predator avoidance in P. ceylonica.
Clinical Features and Long-Term Outcomes of Paediatric-Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease in a Population-Based Cohort in the Songpa-Kangdong District of Seoul, Korea
Authors: Park Sang Hyoung , Im Jong Pil , Park Hyunju , Jeong Seung Kyu , Lee Ji Hyun , Rhee Kyoung Hoon , Kim Young-Ho , Hong Sung Noh , Kim Kyung Ho , Seo Seung In , Cha Jae Myung , Park Sun Yong , Kim Joo Sung , Yoon Hyuk , Kim Sung Hoon , Jang Jisun , Kim Jeong Hwan , Suh Seong O , Kim Young Kyun , Ye Byong Duk , Yang Suk-Kyun
Published: July 2021

Background and Aims

The long-term outcomes of paediatric-onset inflammatory bowel disease [pIBD] in non-Caucasian populations are unknown. We therefore evaluated and compared the clinical features and long-term outcomes of pIBD with those of adult-onset IBD [aIBD] using a population-based cohort in the Songpa-Kangdong district of Seoul, Korea.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and prognoses were compared between the two groups: pIBD [defined as <18 years of age at diagnosis] and aIBD [18–59 years of age at diagnosis].

Results

We identified 131 patients with pIBD (48 ulcerative colitis [UC], 83 Crohn’s disease [CD]) and 1192 patients with aIBD [866 UC, 326 CD] during 1986–2015. Extensive colitis at diagnosis was more prevalent in pUC than in aUC [45.8% vs 22.3%, p < 0.001], and the overall exposure to corticosteroids, thiopurines and anti-tumour necrosis factor agents was higher in pUC than in aUC [p < 0.001]. The cumulative risk of colectomy was higher in pUC than in aUC during a median follow-up of 125.0 and 112.1 months, respectively [8.9% vs 1.8% at 10 years after diagnosis, p = 0.030]. Ileocolonic location and inflammatory behaviour at diagnosis were more common in pCD than in aCD; however, patients with pCD and aCD did not differ regarding treatment or disease course during a median follow-up of 137.2 and 120.9 months, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study showed clear differences between pIBD and aIBD, especially in UC. pUC presents with more extensive diseases and may have a more severe disease course, as suggested by an earlier time to administering medications and performing colectomy.
Regularised orthogonal machine learning for nonlinear semiparametric models
Authors: Nekipelov Denis , Semenova Vira , Syrgkanis Vasilis
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes a Lasso-type estimator for a high-dimensional sparse parameter identified by a single index conditional moment restriction (CMR). In addition to this parameter, the moment function can also depend on a nuisance function, such as the propensity score or the conditional choice probability, which we estimate by modern machine learning tools. We first adjust the moment function so that the gradient of the future loss function is insensitive (formally, Neyman orthogonal) with respect to the first-stage regularisation bias, preserving the single index property. We then take the loss function to be an indefinite integral of the adjusted moment function with respect to the single index. The proposed Lasso estimator converges at the oracle rate, where the oracle knows the nuisance function and solves only the parametric problem. We demonstrate our method by estimating the short-term heterogeneous impact of Connecticut’s Jobs First welfare reform experiment on women’s welfare participation decision.
How-to: Focus Cardiac Ultrasound in acute settings
Authors: Soliman-Aboumarie Hatem , Breithardt Ole-A , Gargani Luna , Trambaiolo Paolo , Neskovic Aleksandar N
Published: July 2021

Focus cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) provides vital information at at the bedside which has the potential of improving outcomes in the acute settings. FoCUS could help the clinicians in their daily clinical decision-making while applied within the clinical context as an extension of bedside clinical examination. FoCUS practitioners should be aware of their own limitations with the importance of the timely referral for comprehensive Echocardiography whenever required.
COVID-19, congenital heart disease, and pregnancy: dramatic conjunction—case report
Authors: Avila Walkiria Samuel , Kirschbaum Marcelo , Devido Marcela Santana , Demarchi Lea Maria Macruz Ferreira
Published: July 2021

Background 

Epidemiological data from the COVID-19 pandemic report that patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease have worse outcomes and higher mortality, and that pregnant women should be considered at high risk.

Case summary 

A 25-year-old pregnant woman on the waiting list for a heart transplant, with a history of complete atrioventricular canal surgery, mitral mechanical prosthetic implant (St Jude-27), and cardiac resynchronization therapy (Boston Scientific) was hospitalized at 30 weeks of gestation for treatment of heart failure. After 7 days of hospitalization, she had a positive RT–PCR test for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 with progressive worsening of her clinical condition and acute foetal distress. Hence emergency caesarean section was performed. After the birth, the patient required mechanical ventilation, progressing to multiple organ system failures. Conventional inotropic drugs, antibiotics, and mechanical ventilation for 30 days in the intensive care unit provided significant clinical, haemodynamic, and respiratory improvement. However, on the 37th day, she suddenly experienced respiratory failure, gastrointestinal and airway bleeding, culminating in death.

Discussion 

Progressive physiological changes during pregnancy cause cardiovascular complications in women with severe heart disease and higher susceptibility to viral infection and severe pneumonia. COVID-19 is known to incite an intense inflammatory and prothrombotic response with clinical expression of severe acute respiratory syndrome, heart failure, and thromboembolic events. The overlap of these COVID-19 events with those of pregnancy in this woman with underlying heart disease contributed to an unfortunate outcome and maternal death.
Heart failure and dementia: a comparative analysis with different types of cancer
Authors: Roderburg Christoph , Loosen Sven H , Jördens Markus S , Konrad Marcel , Luedde Tom , Kostev Karel , Luedde Mark
Published: July 2021

Aims

The prognosis and quality of life of patients with heart failure (HF) is determined by comorbidities, with dementia/cognitive decline believed to have a significant impact in this regard. This study compares the incidence of dementia in patients with HF with that in patients with common cancers in a large collective of outpatients.

Methods and results

This retrospective cohort study assessed the incidence of dementia/cognitive decline [International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10): I50] in a cohort of patients ≥65 years diagnosed with HF (ICD-10: I50), breast cancer (ICD-10: C50), prostate cancer (ICD-10: C61), or digestive organ cancer (ICD-10: C15-C26) in 1274 German general practices between January 2000 and December 2018. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to study the association between HF and dementia compared to each of three cancer cohorts. We included 72 259 patients with HF, 10 310 patients with breast cancer, 12 477 patients with prostate cancer, and 12 136 patients with digestive organ cancer. A total of 27.8% of patients with HF were diagnosed with dementia during the 10-year observation period compared to 16.2% of patients with breast cancer, 18.6% of patients with digestive organ cancer, and 16.1% of patients with prostate cancer. Patients with HF were significantly more likely to develop dementia within 10 years after diagnosis than patients with breast cancer [hazard ratio (HR): 1.36 (95% confidence interval 1.28–1.45, P < 0.001], prostate cancer [HR 1.38 (1.130–1.47), P < 0.001], or gastrointestinal tumours [HR 1.31 (1.24–1.39), P < 0.001].

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the significance of dementia in patients with HF, in whom the condition is much more prevalent than in patients with cancer.
Triglyceride-glucose index predicts outcome in patients with chronic coronary syndrome independently of other risk factors and myocardial ischaemia
Authors: Neglia Danilo , Aimo Alberto , Lorenzoni Valentina , Caselli Chiara , Gimelli Alessia
Published: July 2021

Aims

The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, a surrogate marker of insulin resistance (IR), is a prognostic risk factor in the general population. We aimed to assess whether it is an independent predictor of outcome also in patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS).

Methods and results

TyG index was evaluated in 1097 consecutive patients (75% men, median age 72 years) with known (26%) or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD), undergoing stress-rest myocardial perfusion scintigraphy, and coronary angiography and followed up for a median of 4.5 years. Moderate/severe perfusion abnormalities during stress (summed stress score >7) were documented in 60% of patients, obstructive CAD in 74%, and 36% underwent early revascularization. TyG index was 8.9 (median, interquartile interval 8.6–9.2). Cardiac death or myocardial infarction occurred in 103 patients and all-cause death in 65. After correction for clinical risk factors, LV function and common bio-humoral variables, TyG index (HR 2.42, 95% CI 1.57–3.72, P < 0.001), and moderate/severe stress perfusion abnormalities (hazard ratio (HR) 2.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.25–3.77, P < 0.001) independently predicted cardiac events. TyG index (HR 3.64, 95%CI 2.22–5.96, P < 0.001) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.04–1.19, P = 0.002) independently predicted all-cause death.

Conclusion

In patients with CCS, the TyG index identifies a cardiometabolic profile associated with an additional risk of cardiac events, over the presence of myocardial ischaemia and independently of other clinical, common bio-humoral or imaging risk determinants.
Sleep Characteristics and Hearing Loss in Older Adults: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2006
Authors: Jiang Kening , Spira Adam P , Reed Nicholas S , Lin Frank R , Deal Jennifer A
Published: July 2021

Background

Sleep characteristics might be associated with hearing loss through disturbed energy metabolism and disrupted cochlear blood flow, but prior evidence is limited. This study aims to investigate cross-sectional associations of sleep duration and signs/symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing with hearing in a nationally representative cohort of US older adults aged 70 and older.

Methods

We studied 632 older adults aged 70 and older from the 2005–2006 cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Hearing thresholds were measured using pure-tone audiometry and were averaged to create speech-frequency (0.5–4 kHz), low-frequency (0.5–2 kHz), and high-frequency (4–8 kHz) pure-tone averages (PTAs) in better-hearing ear, with higher values indicate worse hearing. Sleep duration and signs/symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing (snoring, snorting/stopping breathing, excessive sleepiness) were collected through questionnaires. Multivariable-adjusted spline models with knots at 6 and 8 hours were fitted for associations between sleep duration and PTAs. Multivariable-adjusted linear regression was used for associations between sleep-disordered breathing and PTAs. Primary models adjusted for demographic and lifestyle factors, secondary models additionally adjusted for cardiovascular factors.

Results

When sleep duration exceeded 8 hours, every additional hour of sleep duration was marginally associated with higher(poorer) high-frequency PTA (primary: 2.45 dB in hearing level, 95% CI: −0.34 to 5.24; secondary: 2.89 dB in hearing level, 95% CI: 0.02–5.76). No associations were observed between sleep-disordered breathing and hearing.

Conclusions

Longer sleep duration is marginally associated with poorer high-frequency hearing among older adults sleeping more than 8 hours. However, we cannot infer temporality given the cross-sectional design. Future longitudinal studies are needed to establish temporality and clarify mechanisms.
The Roles of Gray Divorce and Subsequent Repartnering for Parent–Adult Child Relationships
Authors: Lin I-Fen , Brown Susan L , Mellencamp Kagan A
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Divorce is now widespread in later life, yet little is known about how older adults and their adult children respond in the aftermath of gray divorce. Guided by the life course perspective, this study examines the consequences of gray divorce and subsequent repartnering for parent–adult child relationships from the parent’s perspective.

Methods

Using longitudinal data from the 1998–2014 Health and Retirement Study in the United States, we estimated growth curve models to compare fathers’ and mothers’ frequent contact with and financial support to their adult children prior to, during, and following gray divorce.

Results

Gray divorce and repartnering had disparate effects on father– versus mother–adult child relationships. Following a divorce, fathers’ frequent contact with their adult children decreased but financial support to their adult children increased. Fathers’ repartnering had an enduring negative effect on frequent contact with their children. Gray divorce did not alter mothers’ financial support to adult children and it actually increased interaction between mothers and adult children as the odds of frequent contact doubled upon divorce. Repartnering had no appreciable effects on mothers’ relationships with their adult children.

Discussion

The results of our study are consistent with prior research showing that divorce creates a matrifocal tilt in our kinship system. The shifting dynamics of parent–adult child relationships in response to gray divorce and repartnering raise questions about whether gray-divorced parents will be able to rely on their adult children for care as they age.
Birefringence Analyses Reveal Differences in Supramolecular Characteristics of Corneal Stromal Collagen Fibrils Between Falconiformes and Strigiformes
Authors: Aldrovani Marcela , Pereira Amanda Garcia , Tinasi Ana Luísa Santos Nielsen , Brito Vinícius José da Silva Cardoso , Raposo Ana Claudia Santos , Honsho Cristiane dos Santos , Oriá Arianne Pontes
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to assess the birefringent properties of corneal stromal collagen fibrils in birds of the orders Falconiformes (diurnal) and Strigiformes (predominantly nocturnal) to compare their supramolecular organizations. In total, 22 corneas of Falconiformes (Caracara plancus, n = 8; Rupornis magnirostris, n = 10; and Falco sparverius, n = 4) and 28 of Strigiformes (Tyto furcata, n = 16; Pseudoscops clamator, n = 6; and Athene cunicularia, n = 6) were processed histotechnically into 8-μm thick sections. Corneal optical retardation (OR) values related to the form and intrinsic fractions of the total birefringence of collagen fibrils were measured using a polarized light microscope equipped with phase compensators. In addition, the coherence coefficients that inform the local orientation of the fibrils were calculated through video image analysis. All assessments were conducted both in the anterior and posterior stroma of the cornea. Differences were significant when P < 0.05. The results showed supraorganizational differences between fibrils in the anterior stroma of Falconiformes and Strigiformes. The OR values were greater (P < 0.0001) for Falconiformes, indicating that the corneas of these birds contain more collagen fibrils or more aggregated collagen fibrils. In contrast, the coherence coefficients were higher (P = 0.016) for Strigiformes, indicating that the corneal collagen fibers in these birds are highly aligned and have few undulations. A multivariate data matrix constructed for Euclidean distance calculations showed that the dissimilarity between Falconiformes and Strigiformes corneas, in terms of the supraorganization of stromal collagen fibrils, was 4.56%. In conclusion, it is possible that the supraorganizational differences reported in this study may be sources of variation in the visual quality of Falconiformes and Strigiformes. This study provides the necessary evidence to encourage further research associating corneal optical performance to supramolecular characteristics of corneal stromal collagen.
International Employment Cases Post-Brexit: Choice of Law, Territorial Scope, Jurisdiction and Enforcement
Authors: Merrett Louise
Published: July 2021

The globalisation of employment relationships means that the international aspects of employment law are important in an ever growing number of cases. In particular, international employment cases may raise issues relating to international jurisdiction, choice of law and territorial scope. Before the UK left the EU, directly effective EU Regulations regulating jurisdiction and choice of law provided the rules which are applied in a large number of cases. This article outlines the changes post-Brexit and the resulting overlapping regimes which now govern international employment cases. The choice of law rules in the Rome I Regulation and Rome II Regulation remain as part of retained EU law. International jurisdiction will now be governed entirely by national law rules. However, for cases in the High Court, the common law rules are amended to mirror the provisions which are previously applied under the Brussels I Regulation recast. Although in many cases the rules look the same, different principles of interpretation will apply, and, longer term, now that the rules are not binding as matter of EU there will be scope to amend and reform the rules.
Limoniic Acid and Its Analog as Trap Lures for PestLimoniusSpecies (Coleoptera: Elateridae) in North America
Authors: van Herk Willem G , Lemke Emily , Gries Gerhard , Gries Regine , Serrano Jacqueline M , Catton Haley , Wanner Kevin , Landolt Peter J , Cooper W Rodney , Meers Scott , Nikoukar Atoosa , Smith Jocelyn L , Alamsetti Santosh K , Etzler Frank E
Published: July 2021

Four species of Limonius wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae), L. californicus, L. canus, L. infuscatus and L. agonus, are serious crop pests in North America. Limoniic acid, (E)-4-ethyloct-4-enoic acid, has been reported as a sex pheromone component of female L. californicus and L. canus, and a sex attractant for male L. infuscatus. In the same study, both limoniic acid and the analog (E)-5-ethyloct-4-enoic acid were highly attractive in field experiments. Moreover, six carboxylic acids in headspace volatiles of Limonius females elicited responses from male antennae but were not tested for behavioral activity. Here, we report trap catch data of Limonius spp. obtained in field experiments at 27 sites across North America. All four Limonius species were attracted to limoniic acid and to the analog but not to the carboxylic acids. Adding these carboxylic acids to limoniic acid, or to the analog, reduced its attractiveness. In dose–response studies, trap lures containing 0.4 mg or 4 mg of limoniic acid afforded large captures of L. californicus and L. infuscatus. Neither limoniic acid nor the analog were deterrent to other elaterid pest species. The broad attractiveness of limoniic acid to Limonius spp., and its non-deterrent effect on heterogeners, may facilitate the development of generic pheromone-based monitoring and management tools for multiple click beetle species.
Incidence of Lung Cancer Among Never-Smoking Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Females
Authors: DeRouen Mindy C , Canchola Alison J , Thompson Caroline A , Jin Anqi , Nie Sixiang , Wong Carmen , Lichtensztajn Daphne , Allen Laura , Patel Manali I , Daida Yihe G , Luft Harold S , Shariff-Marco Salma , Reynolds Peggy , Wakelee Heather A , Liang Su-Ying , Waitzfelder Beth E , Cheng Iona , Gomez Scarlett L
Published: July 2021

Background

Although lung cancer incidence rates according to smoking status, sex, and detailed race/ethnicity have not been available, it is estimated that more than half of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) females with lung cancer have never smoked.

Methods

We calculated age-adjusted incidence rates for lung cancer according to smoking status and detailed race/ethnicity among females, focusing on AANHPI ethnic groups, and assessed relative incidence across racial/ethnic groups. We used a large-scale dataset that integrates data from electronic health records from 2 large health-care systems—Sutter Health in Northern California and Kaiser Permanente Hawai’i—linked to state cancer registries for incident lung cancer diagnoses between 2000 and 2013. The study population included 1 222 694 females (n = 244 147 AANHPI), 3297 of which were diagnosed with lung cancer (n = 535 AANHPI).

Results

Incidence of lung cancer among never-smoking AANHPI as an aggregate group was 17.1 per 100 000 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 14.9 to 19.4) but varied widely across ethnic groups. Never-smoking Chinese American females had the highest rate (22.8 per 100 000, 95% CI = 17.3 to 29.1). Except for Japanese American females, incidence among every never-smoking AANHPI female ethnic group was higher than that of never-smoking non-Hispanic White females, from 66% greater among Native Hawaiian females (incidence rate ratio = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.03 to 2.56) to more than 100% greater among Chinese American females (incidence rate ratio = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.67 to 3.02).

Conclusions

Our study revealed high rates of lung cancer among most never-smoking AANHPI female ethnic groups. Our approach illustrates the use of innovative data integration to dispel the myth that AANHPI females are at overall reduced risk of lung cancer and demonstrates the need to disaggregate this highly diverse population.
Cyclic mismatch binding ligands interact with disease-associated CGG trinucleotide repeats in RNA and suppress their translation
Authors: Konieczny Patryk , Mukherjee Sanjukta , Stepniak-Konieczna Ewa , Taylor Katarzyna , Niewiadomska Daria , Piasecka Agnieszka , Walczak Agnieszka , Baud Anna , Dohno Chikara , Nakatani Kazuhiko , Sobczak Krzysztof
Published: July 2021

Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a late-onset neurodegenerative disorder caused by a limited expansion of CGG repeats in the FMR1 gene. Degeneration of neurons in FXTAS cell models can be triggered by accumulation of polyglycine protein (FMRpolyG), a by-product of translation initiated upstream to the repeats. Specific aims of our work included testing if naphthyridine-based molecules could (i) block FMRpolyG synthesis by binding to CGG repeats in RNA, (ii) reverse pathological alterations in affected cells and (iii) preserve the content of FMRP, translated from the same FMR1 mRNA. We demonstrate that cyclic mismatch binding ligand CMBL4c binds to RNA structure formed by CGG repeats and attenuates translation of FMRpolyG and formation of nuclear inclusions in cells transfected with vectors expressing RNA with expanded CGG repeats. Moreover, our results indicate that CMBL4c delivery can reduce FMRpolyG-mediated cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Importantly, its therapeutic potential is also observed once the inclusions are already formed. We also show that CMBL4c-driven FMRpolyG loss is accompanied by partial FMRP reduction. As complete loss of FMRP induces FXS in children, future experiments should aim at evaluation of CMBL4c therapeutic intervention in differentiated tissues, in which FMRpolyG translation inhibition might outweigh adverse effects related to FMRP depletion.
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage as a Consequence of Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytoma: A Case Report
Authors: Stone Lauren E , Goodwill Vanessa , Wali Arvin R , Hirshman Brian , Santiago-Dieppa David R , Khalessi Alexander
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) is a rare World Health Organization (WHO) grade II lesion considered to portend a good prognosis. However, the literature contains several references of serious intracranial hemorrhages associated with PXAs, although the etiology is poorly understood.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

We present the case of a young woman with a Hunt and Hess V, Fisher 4 subarachnoid hemorrhage associated with a right cavernous sinus PXA. The case provides rare baseline angiographic imaging prior to a presenting hemorrhagic event and reveals progressive loss of structural vascular integrity at proximal large vessels.

CONCLUSION

This case provides insight into the natural history of this entity, tropism for catastrophic vascular injury, and informs surgical management with an emphasis on preoperative vascular imaging and preparation for proximal vascular control with cervical exposure.
Cohabitation With a Known Coronavirus Disease 2019 Case Is Associated With Greater Antibody Concentration and Symptom Severity in a Community-Based Sample of Seropositive Adults
Authors: Schrock Joshua M , Ryan Daniel T , Saber Rana , Benbow Nanette , Vaught Lauren A , Reiser Nina , Velez Matthew P , Hsieh Ryan , Newcomb Michael , Demonbreun Alexis R , Mustanski Brian , McNally Elizabeth M , D’Aquila Richard , McDade Thomas W
Published: July 2021

In a community-based sample of seropositive adults (n = 1101), we found that seropositive individuals who lived with a known coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case exhibited higher blood anti–severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 spike receptor-binding domain immunoglobulin G concentrations and greater symptom severity compared to seropositive individuals who did not live with a known COVID-19 case.
Real-world Effect of Monoclonal Antibody Treatment in COVID-19 Patients in a Diverse Population in the United States
Authors: Rainwater-Lovett Kaitlin , Redd John T , Stewart Miles A , Calles Natalia Elías , Cluff Tyler , Fang Mike , Panaggio Mark J , Lambrou Anastasia S , Thornhill Jonathan K , Bradburne Christopher , Imbriale Samuel , Freeman Jeffrey D , Anderson Michael , Kadlec Robert P
Published: July 2021

Background

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are a promising treatment for limiting the progression of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and decreasing strain on hospitals. Their use, however, remains limited, particularly in disadvantaged populations.

Methods

Electronic health records were reviewed from SARS-CoV-2 patients at a single medical center in the United States that initiated mAb infusions in January 2021 with the support of the US Department of Health and Human Services’ National Disaster Medical System. Patients who received mAbs were compared with untreated patients from the time period before mAb availability who met eligibility criteria for mAb treatment. We used logistic regression to measure the effect of mAb treatment on the risk of hospitalization or emergency department (ED) visit within 30 days of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19.

Results

Of 598 COVID-19 patients, 270 (45%) received bamlanivimab and 328 (55%) were untreated. Two hundred thirty-one patients (39%) were Hispanic. Among treated patients, 5/270 (1.9%) presented to the ED or required hospitalization within 30 days of a positive SARS-CoV-2 test, compared with 39/328 (12%) untreated patients (P < .001). After adjusting for age, gender, and comorbidities, the risk of ED visit or hospitalization was 82% lower in mAb-treated patients compared with untreated patients (95% CI, 56%–94%).

Conclusions

In this diverse, real-world COVID-19 patient population, mAb treatment significantly decreased the risk of subsequent ED visit or hospitalization. Broader treatment with mAbs, including in disadvantaged patient populations, can decrease the burden on hospitals and should be facilitated in all populations in the United States to ensure health equity.
Frequency-Specific Alterations in Brain Function in Patients with Primary Dysmenorrhea
Authors: Yu Siyi , Xu Jing , Shen Zhifu , Wang Yanan , Wei Wei , Guo Xiaoli , Tian Jin , Liu Liying , Yang Ya , Zeng Fang , Liang Fanrong , Yang Jie
Published: July 2021

Objective

Recent neuroimaging studies have found that brain function is abnormal in primary dysmenorrhea (PDM). The present study aimed to explore frequency-specific brain alterations and their occurrence in the PDM.

Methods

Forty-seven patients with PDM and 36 matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study and underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. The alterations in brain function in patients with PDM were assessed with different frequency filter bands (Slow5, Slow4, Slow3, and full low frequency) and a functional connectivity density (FCD) approach. The clinical significance of the altered FCD was then explored. Additionally, mediation analysis was used to detect the altered FCD-mediated clinical relationships in PDM.

Results

Frequency-specific FCD alterations have been observed in patients with PDM, especially in the central executive, default mode, and sensorimotor networks and in the hippocampus. The altered full low-frequency FCD in the hippocampus was associated with the duration of disease and pain severity scores. The altered Slow5 FCD in the second somatosensory area (S2) was associated with the severity of pain in PDM. Furthermore, the FCD in S2 mediated the duration associated with pain symptoms in PDM.

Conclusion

The present study identified frequency-specific FCD alterations in PDM and suggested that the S2 area is a potential treatment target for PDM.
The 5-Year Course of Neck Pain Among Natural Disaster Survivors: The Association of Prior Neck Pain with New Episodes of Neck Pain
Authors: Yabe Yutaka , Hagiwara Yoshihiro , Sekiguchi Takuya , Sugawara Yumi , Tsuchiya Masahiro , Yoshida Shinichirou , Onoki Takahiro , Takahashi Tadahisa , Iwatsu Jun , Tsuji Ichiro
Published: July 2021

Objective

Neck pain is a common health problem among both the general population and natural disaster survivors. However, the long-term course of neck pain has rarely been reported. The aim of this study was to elucidate the 5-year course of neck pain among survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE) by assessing the association of neck pain 2 and 4 years after the disaster with that at 7 years.

Study design

Longitudinal study.

Methods

A panel study was conducted on GEJE survivors (n = 1,821) through the administration of a self-reported questionnaire at 2 (first time point), 4 (second time point), and 7 years (third time point) after the disaster. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between prior neck pain and subsequent neck pain.

Results

The rates of neck pain at the first, second, and third time points were 20.7%, 21.1%, and 20.1%, respectively. Neck pain at the first time point was significantly associated with neck pain at the third time point (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 5.96 [4.53–7.83]). Furthermore, neck pain at the first and second time points was significantly associated with neck pain at the third time point (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 5.71 [4.19–7.78] for neck pain at either time point; 15.94 [10.99–23.12] for neck pain at both time points; P for trend <0.001).

Conclusions

Prior neck pain was significantly associated with neck pain 5 years later, and the effect was stronger with an increase of prior neck pain episodes. Clinicians should base their selection of treatment method on an individual’s history of neck pain.
Single Adrenal Metastasis From Prostate Cancer Detected by 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT and Confirmed by Biopsy
Authors: Ribeiro André Marcondes Braga , Lima Eduardo Nóbrega Pereira , Garcia Daniel , Bezerra Stephania Martins
Published: July 2021

This image demonstrates an unusual presentation of an adrenal metastasis from prostate cancer detected by 68Ga–prostate-specific membrane antigen PET/CT and confirmed by biopsy. A 68-year-old man with prostate cancer persisted with elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen after radical prostatectomy. Imaging identified a single abnormal uptake in the left adrenal gland. A biopsy was performed showing a metastatic prostatic adenocarcinoma. The patient received systemic treatment, and his prostate-specific antigen level decreased significantly. Our objective is to illustrate an unusual and single site of prostate cancer metastasis, in which precise histological diagnosis was essential for correct clinical management of the patient.
A Rare Collecting Duct Carcinoma With Widespread Metastasis Visualized by 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Li Dandan , Fu Chang , You Yang , Zhang Qianqian , Zhang Xiaoju
Published: July 2021

Collecting duct carcinoma is a rare and highly aggressive renal tumor with a poor prognosis. The presence of metastasis is common at collecting duct carcinoma diagnosis, but widespread metastases involving multiple soft tissues are extremely unusual. Here, we describe a 65-year-old man presenting with fever and lower leg pain as the first and main manifestations. After receiving anti-infective therapy for over 6 weeks without improvement, 18F-FDG PET/CT revealed a primary renal carcinoma with widespread metastases. A biopsy from the tubercle of fascicular spinal muscle indicated a diagnosis of collecting duct carcinoma.
Collagen fingerprinting traces the introduction of caprines to island Eastern Africa
Authors: Culley Courtney , Janzen Anneke , Brown Samantha , Prendergast Mary E. , Wolfhagen Jesse , Abderemane Bourhane , Ali Abdallah K. , Haji Othman , Horton Mark C. , Shipton Ceri , Swift Jillian , Tabibou Tabibou A. , Wright Henry T. , Boivin Nicole , Crowther Alison
Published: July 2021

The human colonization of eastern Africa's near- and offshore islands was accompanied by the translocation of several domestic, wild and commensal fauna, many of which had long-term impacts on local environments. To better understand the timing and nature of the introduction of domesticated caprines (sheep and goat) to these islands, this study applied collagen peptide fingerprinting (Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry or ZooMS) to archaeological remains from eight Iron Age sites, dating betweenca300 and 1000 CE, in the Zanzibar, Mafia and Comoros archipelagos. Where previous zooarchaeological analyses had identified caprine remains at four of these sites, this study identified goat at seven sites and sheep at three, demonstrating that caprines were more widespread than previously known. The ZooMS results support an introduction of goats to island eastern Africa from at least the seventh century CE, while sheep in our sample arrived one–two centuries later. Goats may have been preferred because, as browsers, they were better adapted to the islands' environments. The results allow for a more accurate understanding of early caprine husbandry in the study region and provide a critical archaeological baseline for examining the potential long-term impacts of translocated fauna on island ecologies.
The hydroperoxyl radical scavenging activity of sulfuretin: insights from theory
Authors: Hoa Nguyen Thi , Hang Do Thi Ngoc , Hieu Do Phu , Van Truong Huynh , Hoang Loc Phuoc , Mechler Adam , Vo Quan V.
Published: July 2021

Sulfuretin (SFR), which is isolated fromRhus verniciflua,Toxicodendron vernicifluum, Dahlia, Bidens tripartiteandDipterx lacunifera, is one of the most important natural flavonoids. This compound is known to have numerous biological activities; among these, the antioxidant activity has not been thoroughly studied yet. In this study, the hydroperoxyl scavenging activity of SFR was examined by using density functional theory calculations. SFR is predicted to be an excellent HOO•scavenger in water at pH = 7.40 withkoverall= 4.75 × 107M−1s−1, principally due to an increase in the activity of the anionic form following the single-electron transfer mechanism. Consistently, the activity of the neutral form is more prominent in the non-polar environment withkoverall= 1.79 × 104M−1s−1following the formal hydrogen transfer mechanism. Thus, it is predicted that SFR exhibits better HOO•antiradical activity than typical antioxidants such as resveratrol, ascorbic acid or Trolox in the lipid medium. The hydroperoxyl radical scavenging of SFR in the aqueous solution is approximately 530 times faster than that of Trolox and similar to ascorbic acid or resveratrol. This suggests that SFR is a promising radical scavenger in physiological environments.
DCIS genomic signatures define biology and clinical outcome: Human Tumor Atlas Network (HTAN) analysis of TBCRC 038 and RAHBT cohorts
Authors: Strand Siri H , Rivero-Gutiérrez Belén , Houlahan Kathleen E , Seoane Jose A , King Lorraine M , Risom Tyler , Simpson Lunden A , Vennam Sujay , Khan Aziz , Cisneros Luis , Hardman Timothy , Harmon Bryan , Couch Fergus , Gallagher Kristalyn , Kilgore Mark , Wei Shi , DeMichele Angela , King Tari , McAuliffe Priscilla F , Nangia Julie , Lee Joanna , Tseng Jennifer , Storniolo Anna Maria , Thompson Alastair M , Gupta Gaorav P , Burns Robyn , Veis Deborah J , DeSchryver Katherine , Zhu Chunfang , Matusiak Magdalena , Wang Jason , Zhu Shirley X , Tappenden Jen , Ding Daisy Yi , Zhang Dadong , Luo Jingqin , Jiang Shu , Varma Sushama , Anderson Lauren , Straub Cody , Srivastava Sucheta , Curtis Christina , Tibshirani Rob , Angelo Robert Michael , Hall Allison , Owzar Kouros , Polyak Kornelia , Maley Carlo , Marks Jeffrey R , Colditz Graham A , Hwang E Shelley , West Robert B
Published: July 2021

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is the most common precursor of invasive breast cancer (IBC), with variable propensity for progression. We have performed the first multiscale, integrated profiling of DCIS with clinical outcomes by analyzing 677 DCIS samples from 481 patients with 7.1 years median follow-up from the Translational Breast Cancer Research Consortium (TBCRC) 038 study and the Resource of Archival Breast Tissue (RAHBT) cohorts. We identified 812 genes associated with ipsilateral recurrence within 5 years from treatment and developed a classifier that was predictive of DCIS or IBC recurrence in both cohorts. Pathways associated with recurrence include proliferation, immune response, and metabolism. Distinct stromal expression patterns and immune cell compositions were identified. Our multiscale approach employed in situ methods to generate a spatially resolved atlas of breast precancers, where complementary modalities can be directly compared and correlated with conventional pathology findings, disease states, and clinical outcome.

HIGHLIGHTS

⍰ Development of a new classifier for DCIS recurrence or progression

⍰ Outcome associated pathways identified across multiple data types and compartments

⍰ Four stroma-specific signatures identified

⍰ CNAs characterize DCIS subgroups associated with high risk invasive cancers
Auto tuning SIR model parameters using genetic algorithm
Authors: Kristen L. , Liu Fei
Published: July 2021

Earlier studies [1] comparing Covid-19 simulations using extended SIR model [2] with observed new cases in New Jersey and United States showed good agreement between simulated results and observational data. The parameters of the SIR model controlling the behavior of the model have to be manually adjusted until the modelled results and observations reach good agreement. The parameter tuning process is tedious and time consuming. In this work, we have developed an approach using genetic algorithm [3] to automatically select the most optimal set of parameters to minimize the residual between simulated result and observational data. The parameter tuning process applying SIR model can now be automated without tedious and time consuming manual intervention.
Off-season RSV epidemics in Australia after easing of COVID-19 restrictions
Authors: Eden John-Sebastian , Sikazwe Chisha , Xie Ruopeng , Deng Yi-Mo , Sullivan Sheena G. , Michie Alice , Levy Avram , Cutmore Elena , Blyth Christopher C , Britton Philip N , Crawford Nigel , Dong Xiaomin , Dwyer Dominic E. , Edwards Kimberly M. , Horsburgh Bethany A. , Foley David , Kennedy Karina , Minney-Smith Cara , Speers David , Tulloch Rachel L. , Holmes Edward C. , Dhanasekaran Vijaykrishna , Smith David W. , Kok Jen , Barr Ian G. ,   Australian RSV study group
Published: July 2021

Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an important cause of acute respiratory infection (ARI) with the most severe disease in the young and elderly1,2. Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) and travel restrictions for controlling COVID-19 have impacted the circulation of most respiratory viruses including RSV globally, particularly in Australia, where during 2020 the normal winter epidemics were notably absent3–6. However, in late 2020, unprecedented widespread RSV outbreaks occurred, beginning in spring, and extending into summer across two widely separated states of Australia, Western Australia (WA) and New South Wales (NSW) including the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Genome sequencing revealed a significant reduction in RSV genetic diversity following COVID-19 emergence except for two genetically distinct RSV-A clades. These clades circulated cryptically, likely localized for several months prior to an epidemic surge in cases upon relaxation of COVID-19 control measures. The NSW/ACT clade subsequently spread to the neighbouring state of Victoria (VIC) and caused extensive outbreaks and hospitalisations in early 2021. These findings highlight the need for continued surveillance and sequencing of RSV and other respiratory viruses during and after the COVID-19 pandemic as mitigation measures introduced may result in unusual seasonality, along with larger or more severe outbreaks in the future.
Profiling lockdown adherence and poor coping responses towards the COVID-19 crisis in an international cross-sectional survey
Authors: Van Belle Sylvia , Dahlén Amelia , Schiöth Helgi B. , Brooks Samantha J.
Published: July 2021

This study uses international respondents to a COVID-lockdown related questionnaire (n = 1,688) to assess the determinants of adherence and poor coping in response to lockdown measures. A regression analysis was used to compare the relative importance of clusters derived from a K-means cluster analysis as well as various demographics (age, gender, level of education, political affiliation, a factor reflecting social security and a factor reflecting the lockdown harshness). Three distinct clusters (“General Population”, “Extreme Responders” and “Sufferers) were identified, corresponding well to a previous study. Clusters appeared to be the best overall predictors of coping and adherence although gender, political affiliation and lockdown harshness were also important predictors. The large proportion of variance that remains unexplained, combined with the relatively weak effects of traditional demographics, suggest that less concrete variables such as personality traits, health and environmental factors may be better predictors of adherence and coping during a pandemic.
Preconditioning by voluntary wheel running attenuates later neuropathic pain via Nrf2 antioxidant signaling in rats
Authors: Green-Fulgham Suzanne M. , Harland Michael E. , Ball Jayson B. , D’Angelo Heather , Dreher Renee A. , Li Jiahe , Lacagnina Michael J. , Lorca Sabina A. , Kwilasz Andrew J. , Maier Steven F. , Watkins Linda R. , Grace Peter M.
Published: July 2021

Animal and human studies have shown that exercise prior to nerve injury prevents later chronic pain, but the mechanisms of such preconditioning remain elusive. Given that exercise acutely increases formation of free radicals, triggering antioxidant compensation, we hypothesized that voluntary running preconditioning would attenuate neuropathic pain by supporting redox homeostasis after sciatic nerve injury in male and female rats. We show that 6 weeks of voluntary wheel running suppresses neuropathic pain development induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) across both sexes. This protection was associated with reduced nitrotyrosine immunoreactivity—a marker for peroxynitrite—at the sciatic nerve injury site. Our data suggest that prior voluntary wheel running does not reduce production of peroxynitrite precursors, as expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase and NADPH oxidase 2 were unchanged. Instead, voluntary wheel running increased superoxide scavenging by elevating expression of superoxide dismutases 1 and 2. Prevention of neuropathic pain was further associated with activation of the master transcriptional regulator of the antioxidant response, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Six weeks of prior voluntary wheel running increased Nrf2 nuclear translocation at the sciatic nerve injury site; in contrast, 3 weeks of prior wheel running, which failed to prevent neuropathic pain, had no effect on Nrf2 nuclear translocation. The protective effects of prior voluntary wheel running were mediated by Nrf2, as suppression was abolished across both sexes when Nrf2 activation was blocked during the running phase. This study provides insight into the mechanisms by which physical activity may prevent neuropathic pain.