bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘How the Music was Made’: Television, musicology and BBC Four
Authors: Huelin Toby
Published: April 2022

This article focuses on BBC Four’s original music programming, considering documentaries which, according to the channel’s commissioning guidelines, ‘tak[e] a musicology approach’ to give audiences a ‘privileged view’ of ‘how the music was made’. It focuses on two case studies: Tunes for Tyrants: Music and Power with Suzy Klein (2017) and Being Beethoven (2020) . Drawing upon original interviews with key production personnel for each series, this article explores the roles of music scholars in the television production process. It examines how musicologists are engaged with a production, what roles they undertake, and the value of their work for programme makers.
ECG in the clinical and prognostic evaluation of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: an underestimated value
Authors: Michalski Tomasz Adam , Pszczola Joanna , Lisowska Anna , Knapp Malgorzata , Sobkowicz Bozena , Kaminski Karol , Ptaszynska-Kopczynska Katarzyna
Published: April 2022

Background:

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease leading to right ventricular (RV) failure and manifests in decreasing exercise tolerance. Our study aimed to assess the usefulness of electrocardiographic parameters reflecting right heart hypertrophy as predictors of clinical status in PAH.

Methods:

The retrospective analysis included 26 patients, mean 49 ± 17 years of age, diagnosed with PAH, and eligible to undergo cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). The relations between ECG values and parameters obtained in procedures such as six-minute walk test (6-MWT), echocardiography, right heart catheterization (RHC), and CPET were analyzed.

Results:

P-wave amplitude in lead II correlated positively with CPET parameter of respiratory response: minute ventilation to carbon dioxide production slope (VE/VCO2 slope; r = 0.436, p = 0.029) and echocardiographic estimated RA pressure (RAP; r = 0.504, p = 0.02). RV Sokolow-Lyon index (RVSLI) positively correlated with echocardiographic parameters reflecting RV function, overload, and afterload–tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient (TRPG; r = 0.788, p < 0.001), RV free wall thickness ( r = 0.738, p < 0.001), and mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAPECHO; r = 0.62, p = 0.0016), respectively, as well as VE/VCO2 slope ( r = 0.593, p = 0.001) and mPAP assessed directly in RHC (mPAPRHC; r = 0.469, p = 0.0497). R-wave in lead aVR correlated positively with TRPG ( r = 0.719, p < 0.001), mPAPECHO ( r = 0.446, p = 0.033), and several hemodynamic criteria of PAH diagnosis: positively with mPAPRHC ( r = 0.505, p = 0.033) and pulmonary vascular resistance ( r = 0.554, p = 0.026) and negatively with pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ( r = −0.646, p = 0.004). QRS duration correlated positively with estimated RAP ( r = 0.589, p = 0.004), vena cava inferior diameter ( r = 0.506, p = 0.016), and RA area ( r = 0.679, p = 0.002) and negatively with parameters of exercise capacity: peak VO2 ( r = −0.486, p = 0.012), CPET maximum load ( r = − 0.439, p = 0.025), and 6-MWT distance ( r = −0.430, p = 0.046). ROC curves to detect intermediate/high 1-year mortality risk (based on ESC criteria) indicate RVSLI (cut-off point: 1.57 mV, AUC: 0.771) and QRS duration (cut-off points: 0.09 s, AUC: 703 and 0.1 s, AUC: 0.759) as relevant predictors.

Conclusion:

Electrocardiography appears to be an important and underappreciated tool in PAH assessment. ECG corresponds with clinical parameters reflecting PAH severity.
Analysis of the Treatment and Survival of Sinonasal Extramedullary Plasmacytoma
Authors: Gao Jeff , Tseng Christopher C. , Barinsky Gregory L. , Fang Christina H. , Grube Jordon G. , Hsueh Wayne D. , Baredes Soly , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: April 2022

Background

While extramedullary plasmacytomas are infrequently encountered plasma cell malignancies, most cases occur in the head and neck, with a predilection for the sinonasal cavity. Due to the rarity of this disease, the majority of studies on sinonasal extramedullary plasmacytoma (SN-EMP) are case reports or small retrospective case series.

Objective

To investigate the impact of patient, disease, and treatment factors on the survival of patients with SN-EMP.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for all patients with SN-EMP between 2004–2016 (N = 381 cases). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to examine patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and survival.

Results

The majority of SN-EMP patients were over 60 years old (57.0%), male (69.8%), and white (86.2%). The most common treatment modality was radiotherapy alone (38.6%), followed by surgery plus radiotherapy (37.8%). Five-year overall survival was 74.0% and median survival was 9.1 years. Accounting for patient demographics and tumor characteristics in a multivariate model, the following groups had worse prognosis: 60 and older (HR 1.99, p = 0.031) and frontal sinus primary site (HR 11.56, p = 0.001). Patients who received no treatment (HR 3.89, p = 0.013), chemotherapy alone (HR 5.57, p = 0.008) or radiotherapy plus chemotherapy (HR 2.82, p = 0.005) had significantly lower survival than patients who received radiotherapy alone. Patients who received surgery with radiotherapy (HR 0.57, p = 0.039) had significantly higher survival than patients who received radiotherapy alone.

Conclusion

In patients with SN-EMP five-year overall survival was found to be 74.0% with decreased survival associated with a frontal sinus primary site and being aged 60 or older. Patients receiving no treatment, chemotherapy alone, or radiotherapy with chemotherapy was associated with lower survival. Receiving surgery plus radiotherapy was associated with the highest five-year overall survival.
How Much Lumbar Lordosis does a Patient Need to Reach their Age-Adjusted Alignment Target? A Formulated Approach Predicting Successful Surgical Outcomes
Authors: McCarthy Michael H. , Lafage Renaud , Smith Justin S. , Bess Shay , Ames Christopher P. , Klineberg Eric O. , Kim Han J. , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Burton Douglas C. , Mundis Gregory M. , Gupta Manish C. , Schwab Frank J. , Lafage Virginie ,   International Spine Study Group (ISSG)
Published: April 2022

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives

Identify optimal lumbar lordosis in adult deformity correction to achieve age-adjusted targets and sustained alignment.

Methods

Surgical adult spinal deformity patients reaching an age-adjusted ideal alignment at one year were identified. Multilinear regression analysis was used to identify the relationship between regional curvatures (LL and TK) that enabled achievement of a given global alignment (T1 pelvic angle, TPA) based on pelvic incidence (PI).

Results

347 patients out of 1048 available reached their age-adjusted TPA within 5° (60-year-old, 72% women, body mass index 29 ± 6.2). They had a significant improvement in all sagittal parameters (except PI) from pre-operative baseline to 1 year following surgery ( P < .001). Multilinear regression predicting L1-S1 based on TK, TPA, and PI demonstrated excellent results (R2 = .85). Simplification of the coefficients of prediction combined with a conversion to an age-based formula led to the following: LL = PI - 0.3TK - 0.5Age + 10. Internal validation of the formula led to a mean error of −.4°, and an absolute error of 5.0°. Internal validation on patients with an age-adjusted alignment revealed similar accuracy across the entire age-adjusted TPA spectrum (ranges of LL errors: ME = .2° to 1.7°, AE = 4.0° to 5.3°).

Conclusion

This study provides a simple guideline to identify the amount of LL needed to reach a given alignment (i.e., age-adjusted target) based on PI and associated TK. Implementation of this predictive formula during pre-operative surgical planning may help to reduce unexpected sub-optimal post-operative alignment outcomes.
A systematic review of large animal and human studies of stem cell therapeutics for acute adult traumatic spinal cord injury
Authors: Laycock Charlotte , Kieser David , Fitz-Gerald Connor , Soltani Sherry , Frampton Chris
Published: April 2022

Background: Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) is a devastating condition and the search for a cure remains one of the most tenacious healthcare challenges to date. Current therapies are limited in their efficacy to restore full neurological function – resulting in lifelong disability and loss of autonomy. Whilst there remains a necessity to refine therapeutic protocols, stem cell (SC) studies have shown promise in the mending and re-establishment of the spinal cord neuroanatomy. Objectives: We conducted a systematic review of functional outcomes in stem cell therapeutics over the last three decades in large animals and humans. Methods: Medline, Embase, Cochrane and SCOPUS databases were searched for potentially pertinent articles from 1990 to 2020. Studies published in English were included if the stem cells were directly injected into the intraspinal, epidural or intrathecal compartments within two weeks of a traumatic mechanism of injury, including acute intervertebral disc prolapse. The participants were either large animals – defined as canine, porcine or non-human primate in-vivo models – or human patients. Results: Nine studies were included in this review. Statistically significant improvements in motor function and deep pain perception were seen at 8 weeks to 6 months post-SC injection compared to controls. Limitations: Functional outcomes are variably measured across studies. Almost all studies used experimentally induced trauma, which may not accurately represent the complexity of human spinal cord injury. Due to the exclusion criteria, there were no non-human primate studies included, yet these animal models are considered a closer anatomical match to humans than other large mammals. No human studies were included. Conclusions and Implications: Autologous and allogeneic stem cells have been trialled for the reconstitution of damaged and lost cells, remyelination of axons and remodelling of the pathophysiological microenvironment within the injured spinal cord, with some promising outcome data. This may translate to more successful future Phase I/II human clinical trials into the use of stem cells after TSCI in adults.
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis–related pulmonary restriction: An under-appreciated manifestation potentially reversible with imatinib therapy
Authors: Mansour Jennifer , Coleman Cheralyn , Mendoza Fabian , Lammi Matthew , Saketkoo Lesley Ann
Published: April 2022

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis typically occurs in patients with renal failure and is strongly associated with gadolinium exposure through stimulation of macrophage-activated fibrosis. Patients present with prominent fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Quality of life is significantly diminished due to impairment from restrictive mobility of large and small joint contractures, pain, and ensuing psychological stress. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis can be severe and life-threatening. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis patients reliant on hemodialysis with cutaneous symptoms, defined as hyperpigmentation, hardening, and tethering of skin on the extremities, experience rates of mortality as high as 48%. Physician awareness and preventive strategies coincided with a reduction in the incidence of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. Several treatments, of which physical therapy may be a key adjuvant, have been used to treat nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, with variable and inconsistent results, lacking wide consensus. Improvement of renal function may improve nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, with some patients demonstrating stabilization or improvement after renal transplantation or resolution of acute renal failure. Imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, demonstrates antifibrotic effects in the skin and recently was used to successfully treat nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. We report a case of severe nephrogenic systemic fibrosis with extensive skin fibrosis causing extrapulmonary restriction who demonstrated improved lung function following treatment with imatinib.
HSCT using carrier donors for CD40L deficiency results in excellent immune function and higher CD40L expression in cTfh
Authors: Chandrakasan Shanmuganathan , Chandra Sharat , Prince Chengyu , Kobrynski Lisa J. , Lucas Laura , Patel Kiran , Walter Jolan , Buckley Rebecca H. , Meisel Roland , Ghosh Sujal , Parikh Suhag H.
Published: April 2022

Data are limited regarding the immune status of CD40 ligand (CD40L)–deficient carriers and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) outcomes using them as donors for CD40L-deficient patients. Therefore, we studied the immune profiles of 7 carriers, 4 of whom were HSCT donors for family members with CD40L deficiency, and we characterized their HSCT outcomes. Immunoglobulin profiles, CD4, CD8, circulating T-follicular helper (cTfh) cells, and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in carriers were comparable to those in healthy controls. CD40L expression in carriers ranged from 37% to 78%. cTfh cells from carriers expressed higher CD40L compared with total CD4 cells or the memory CD4 compartment, suggesting a potential advantage to CD40L-expressing cTfh cells. Tregs had minimal CD40L expression in carriers and healthy controls. So we postulated that HSCT using donors who were CD40L carriers may result in excellent immune reconstitution without immune dysregulation. Four CD40L-deficient patients underwent HSCT from carriers who had CD40L expression from 37% to 63%. All patients engrafted, achieved excellent immune reconstitution with lack of opportunistic infections, graft-versus-host disease, and immune dysregulation; stable CD40L expression mimicked that of donors 1 to 5 years after HSCT. Immunoglobulin independence was achieved in 3 of the 4 patients. We demonstrated higher CD40L expression in the cTfh compartment of carriers and excellent immune reconstitution using donors who were CD40L carriers in CD40L-deficient patients.
Convalescent plasma with a high level of virus-specific antibody effectively neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern
Authors: Li Maggie , Beck Evan J. , Laeyendecker Oliver , Eby Yolanda , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Caturegli Patrizio , Wouters Camille , Chiklis Gregory R. , Block William , McKie Robert O. , Joyner Michael J. , Wiltshire Timothy D. , Dietz Allan B. , Gniadek Thomas J. , Shapiro Arell J. , Yarava Anusha , Lane Karen , Hanley Daniel F. , Bloch Evan M. , Shoham Shmuel , Cachay Edward R. , Meisenberg Barry R. , Huaman Moises A. , Fukuta Yuriko , Patel Bela , Heath Sonya L. , Levine Adam C. , Paxton James H. , Anjan Shweta , Gerber Jonathan M. , Gebo Kelly A. , Casadevall Arturo , Pekosz Andrew , Sullivan David J.
Published: April 2022

The ongoing evolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants severely limits available effective monoclonal antibody therapies. Effective drugs are also supply limited. COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) qualified for high antibody levels effectively reduces immunocompetent outpatient hospitalization. The Food and Drug Administration currently allows outpatient CCP for the immunosuppressed. Viral-specific antibody levels in CCP can range 10- to 100-fold between donors, unlike the uniform viral-specific monoclonal antibody dosing. Limited data are available on the efficacy of polyclonal CCP to neutralize variants. We examined 108 pre-δ/pre-ο donor units obtained before March 2021, 20 post-δ COVID-19/postvaccination units, and 1 pre-δ/pre-ο hyperimmunoglobulin preparation for variant-specific virus (vaccine-related isolate [WA-1], δ, and ο) neutralization correlated to Euroimmun S1 immunoglobulin G antibody levels. We observed a two- to fourfold and 20- to 40-fold drop in virus neutralization from SARS-CoV-2 WA-1 to δ or ο, respectively. CCP antibody levels in the upper 10% of the 108 donations as well as 100% of the post-δ COVID-19/postvaccination units and the hyperimmunoglobulin effectively neutralized all 3 variants. High-titer CCP neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 variants despite no previous donor exposure to the variants.
SU16f inhibits fibrotic scar formation and facilitates axon regeneration and locomotor function recovery after spinal cord injury by blocking the PDGFRβ pathway
Authors: Li Ziyu , Yu Shuisheng , Liu Yanchang , Hu Xuyang , Li Yiteng , Xiao Zhaoming , Chen Yihao , Tian Dasheng , Xu Xinzhong , Cheng Li , Zheng Meige , Jing Juehua
Published: April 2022

Background

Excessively deposited fibrotic scar after spinal cord injury (SCI) inhibits axon regeneration. It has been reported that platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRβ), as a marker of fibrotic scar-forming fibroblasts, can only be activated by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) B or PDGFD. However, whether the activation of the PDGFRβ pathway can mediate fibrotic scar formation after SCI remains unclear.

Methods

A spinal cord compression injury mouse model was used. In situ injection of exogenous PDGFB or PDGFD in the spinal cord was used to specifically activate the PDGFRβ pathway in the uninjured spinal cord, while intrathecal injection of SU16f was used to specifically block the PDGFRβ pathway in the uninjured or injured spinal cord. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to explore the distributions and cell sources of PDGFB and PDGFD, and to evaluate astrocytic scar, fibrotic scar, inflammatory cells and axon regeneration after SCI. Basso Mouse Scale (BMS) and footprint analysis were performed to evaluate locomotor function recovery after SCI.

Results

We found that the expression of PDGFD and PDGFB increased successively after SCI, and PDGFB was mainly secreted by astrocytes, while PDGFD was mainly secreted by macrophages/microglia and fibroblasts. In addition, in situ injection of exogenous PDGFB or PDGFD can lead to fibrosis in the uninjured spinal cord, while this profibrotic effect could be specifically blocked by the PDGFRβ inhibitor SU16f. We then treated the mice after SCI with SU16f and found the reduction of fibrotic scar, the interruption of scar boundary and the inhibition of lesion and inflammation, which promoted axon regeneration and locomotor function recovery after SCI.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that activation of PDGFRβ pathway can directly induce fibrotic scar formation, and specific blocking of this pathway would contribute to the treatment of SCI.
Evaluation of the electronic Early Warning and Response Network (EWARN) system in Somalia, 2017–2020
Authors: Lubogo Mutaawe , Karanja Mary Joan , Mdodo Rennatus , Elnossery Sherein , Osman Ali Abdirahman , Abdi Abdulkadir , Buliva Evans , Tayyab Muhammad , Omar Omar Abdulle , Ahmed Mirza Mashrur , Abera Solomon Chane , Abubakar Abdinasir , Malik Sk Md Mamunur Rahman
Published: April 2022

Background

In 2008, Somalia introduced an electronic based Early Warning Alert and Response Network (EWARN) for real time detection and response to alerts of epidemic prone diseases in a country experiencing a complex humanitarian situation. EWARN was deactivated between 2008 to 2016 due to civil conflict and reactivated in 2017 during severe drought during a cholera outbreak. We present an assessment of the performance of the EWARN in Somalia from January 2017 to December 2020, reflections on the successes and failures, and provide future perspectives for enhancement of the EWARN to effectively support an Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response strategy.

Methods

We described geographical coverage of the EWARN, system attributes, which included; sensitivity, flexibility, timeliness, data quality (measured by completeness), and positive predictive value (PPV). We tested for trends of timeliness of submission of epidemiological reports across the years using the Cochran-Mantel–Haenszel stratified test of association.

Results

By December 2020, all 6 states and the Banadir Administrative Region were implementing EWARN. In 2017, only 24.6% of the records were submitted on time, but by 2020, 96.8% of the reports were timely (p < 0.001). Completeness averaged < 60% in all the 4 years, with the worst-performing year being 2017. Overall, PPV was 14.1%. Over time, PPV improved from 7.1% in 2017 to 15.4% in 2019 but declined to 9.7% in 2020. Alert verification improved from 2.0% in 2017 to 52.6% by 2020, (p < 0.001). In 2020, EWARN was enhanced to facilitate COVID-19 reporting demonstrating its flexibility to accommodate the integration of reportable diseases.

Conclusions

During the past 4 years of implementing EWARN in Somalia, the system has improved significantly in timeliness, disease alerts verification, and flexibility in responding to emerging disease outbreaks, and enhanced coverage. However, the system is not yet optimal due to incompleteness and lack of integration with other systems suggesting the need to build additional capacity for improved disease surveillance coverage, buttressed by system improvements to enhance data quality and integration.
Glucose metabolism and AD: evidence for a potential diabetes type 3
Authors: González Andrea , Calfío Camila , Churruca Macarena , Maccioni Ricardo B.
Published: April 2022

Background

Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent cause of dementia in the elderly. Neuronal death and synaptic dysfunctions are considered the main hallmarks of this disease. The latter could be directly associated to an impaired metabolism. In particular, glucose metabolism impairment has demonstrated to be a key regulatory element in the onset and progression of AD, which is why nowadays AD is considered the type 3 diabetes.

Methods

We provide a thread regarding the influence of glucose metabolism in AD from three different perspectives: (i) as a regulator of the energy source, (ii) through several metabolic alterations, such as insulin resistance, that modify peripheral signaling pathways that influence activation of the immune system (e.g., insulin resistance, diabetes, etc.), and (iii) as modulators of various key post-translational modifications for protein aggregation, for example, influence on tau hyperphosphorylation and other important modifications, which determine its self-aggregating behavior and hence Alzheimer’s pathogenesis.

Conclusions

In this revision, we observed a 3 edge-action in which glucose metabolism impairment is acting in the progression of AD: as blockade of energy source (e.g., mitochondrial dysfunction), through metabolic dysregulation and post-translational modifications in key proteins, such as tau. Therefore, the latter would sustain the current hypothesis that AD is, in fact, the novel diabetes type 3.
Pathological features of tissues and cell populations during cancer cachexia
Authors: Di Girolamo Daniela , Tajbakhsh Shahragim
Published: April 2022

Cancers remain among the most devastating diseases in the human population in spite of considerable advances in limiting their impact on lifespan and healthspan. The multifactorial nature of cancers, as well as the number of tissues and organs that are affected, have exposed a considerable diversity in mechanistic features that are reflected in the wide array of therapeutic strategies that have been adopted. Cachexia is manifested in a number of diseases ranging from cancers to diabetes and ageing. In the context of cancers, a majority of patients experience cachexia and succumb to death due to the indirect effects of tumorigenesis that drain the energy reserves of different organs. Considerable information is available on the pathophysiological features of cancer cachexia, however limited knowledge has been acquired on the resident stem cell populations, and their function in the context of these diseases. Here we review current knowledge on cancer cachexia and focus on how tissues and their resident stem and progenitor cell populations are individually affected.
When inflammation meets lung development—an update on the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Holzfurtner Lena , Shahzad Tayyab , Dong Ying , Rekers Lisa , Selting Ariane , Staude Birte , Lauer Tina , Schmidt Annesuse , Rivetti Stefano , Zimmer Klaus-Peter , Behnke Judith , Bellusci Saverio , Ehrhardt Harald
Published: April 2022

Even more than 50 years after its initial description, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains one of the most important and lifelong sequelae following premature birth. Tremendous efforts have been undertaken since then to reduce this ever-increasing disease burden but a therapeutic breakthrough preventing BPD is still not in sight. The inflammatory response provoked in the immature lung is a key driver of distorted lung development and impacts the formation of alveolar, mesenchymal, and vascular structures during a particularly vulnerable time-period. During the last 5 years, new scientific insights have led to an improved pathomechanistic understanding of BPD origins and disease drivers. Within the framework of current scientific progress, concepts involving disruption of the balance of key inflammatory and lung growth promoting pathways by various stimuli, take center stage. Still today, the number of efficient therapeutics available to prevent BPD is limited to a few, well-established pharmacological interventions including postnatal corticosteroids, early caffeine administration, and vitamin A. Recent advances in the clinical care of infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) have led to improvements in survival without a consistent reduction in the incidence of BPD. Our update provides latest insights from both preclinical models and clinical cohort studies and describes novel approaches to prevent BPD.
Tiebout sorting with progressive income taxation and a fiscal equalization scheme
Authors: Kuhlmey Florian
Published: April 2022

This paper develops a model of Tiebout sorting with decentrally determined progressive income taxation and a built-in fiscal equalization scheme that redistributes money from richer to poorer regions. Both aspects are central to policy makers: the progressivity for equity reasons and the fiscal equalization to prevent an underprovision of the publicly provided good and to limit the degree of segregation of households according to income. The model is calibrated to the metropolitan area of Zurich (Switzerland), and policy evaluations reveal that a progressive tax scheme as the basis for decentrally determined tax rates causes strong segregating forces that can only to some extent be compensated by the fiscal equalization scheme.
Systemic resistance induction of tomato plants against tomato mosaic virus by microalgae
Authors: Elsharkawy Mohsen Mohamed , El-Okkiah Samira , Elsadany Abdelgawad Youssef , Bedier Mona Youssef , Omara Reda Ibrahim , Behiry Said I. , Hassan Sabry , Abdelkhalek Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Background

Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) is a dangerous disease of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) that reduces dramatically the yield. To reduce ToMV infection, microalgal isolates were utilized. Microalgal species (Chlorella vulgaris, Anabaena oryzae, Spirulina platensis, Nostoc linckia and Dunaliella salina) were shown to be responsible for the stimulation of tomato resistance against ToMV.

Results

Initial signs of discoloration and mosaic in ToMV-inoculated plants were detected and identified on inoculated leaves at 6 and 12 dpi in control and treated plants, respectively, suggesting that microalgae may inhibit ToMV growth. Treatment with microalgae resulted in a significant decrease in symptoms (up to 63% reduction in disease severity) and negative ELISA readings, indicating that the microalgae induced resistance in tomato against ToMV infection. The isolates also enhanced the activity of pathogenesis-related enzymes (PPO and POX reaching to 0.033 and 0.054 in D. salina, respectively), as well as tomato growth characters in comparison with the control. Microalgal treatments demonstrated that the salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) pathways were involved in tomato plant defense responses. The relative gene expressions of PR1 and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), which are involved in the SA and JA pathways, respectively, were improved in treated plants compared to the control.

Conclusion

The findings indicated that algal-induced ToMV resistance was mediated via several defense pathways in tomato. The antiviral mechanism was described, which provides a light on the potential of algae in plant viral disease management.
Prevalence and patterns of chromosomal abnormalities among Egyptian patients with infertility: a single institution’s 5-year experience
Authors: El-Dahtory Faeza , Yahia Sohier , Rasheed Rabab Ahmed , Wahba Yahya
Published: April 2022

Background

Chromosomal abnormalities represent an important cause of human infertility. Little is known about the prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities among Egyptian couples with infertility. We estimated the cytogenetic profiles and semen analysis patterns among infertile couples. We analyzed data from medical archives of 2150 patients with infertility in Mansoura University Children’s Hospital, Egypt from 2015 to 2019. The data included karyotypes and semen analysis reports.

Results

Chromosomal abnormalities were reported in 13.5% of infertile patients (290/2150); 150 out of 1290 (11.62%) males and 140 out of 860 (16.28%) females. Within the infertile males, the numerical chromosomal abnormalities were detected in 134/1290 (10.38%) males, and structural abnormalities were found in 16/1290 (1.24%) males. Within the infertile females, numerical sex chromosome abnormalities were detected in 75/860 (8.72%) females, structural sex chromosome abnormalities were found in 31/860 (3.6%) females, mosaicism of the sex chromosome was found in 22/860 (2.56%) females, and male pseudohermaphrodites were detected in 12/860 (1.39%) females.

Conclusions

Numerical chromosomal aberrations are the most frequent patterns among infertile couples. Attention should be paid to the traditional chromosomal analysis as an important diagnostic step in the infertility work-up.
Unusual case of skull base adenoid cystic carcinoma presenting as skull base osteomyelitis: case report
Authors: Shetty Sachin P. , Mettu Bala Seshank Akshit Reddy , Das Sudha Kiran , Hiremath Rudresh
Published: April 2022

Background

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare malignancy. Tumours of palatal region with minor salivary gland origin do not generally present at an early stage as the tumour is submucosal with symptoms prevalent only when there is evidence of perineural spread of the tumour. We report a case of adenoid cystic carcinoma of the palate with rare presentation of left ear discharge and diplopia on left lateral gaze. We discuss the case with emphasis on imaging evaluation mimicking a case of infective etiology with adjacent skull base osteomyelitis on initial presentation. However, on follow-up and further evaluation the patient was diagnosed as adenoid cystic carcinoma of hard palate on left side.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old male patient has presented to Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeswara Hospital in August 2019 with complaints of left ear discharge and diplopia on left lateral gaze since 1 week. The clinical and imaging findings was suggestive of infective etiology and the patient was treated for the same with IV antibiotics. Repeat magnetic resonance imaging was then done which revealed definitive reduction in the severity of inflammation suggestive of response to therapy. Patient was then discharged and was followed up. Three months later, the patient came with complaints of mass in left nasal cavity. Patient was then referred for contrast enhanced computed tomography neck strongly suggestive of neoplastic etiology. The patient was then operated and histopathological examination of the biopsy revealed adenoid cystic carcinoma.

Conclusions

Tumours of palatal region with minor salivary gland origin do not generally present at an early stage as the tumour is submucosal with symptoms prevalent only when there is evidence of perineural spread of the tumour. In our case patient presented with lateral rectus palsy, involvement of meckel’s cave, trigeminal nerve involvement and cavernous sinus involvement which are strong indicators of the perineural and locoregional spread of the tumour. Hence, it is important for the radiologist and clinician to strongly suspect and evaluate for a primary lesion of the head and neck when such a radiological presentation has been demonstrated.
Yang cycle enzyme DEP1: its moonlighting functions in PSI and ROS production during leaf senescence
Authors: Wang Chu-Kun , Li Xiu-Ming , Dong Fang , Sun Cui-Hui , Lu Wen-Li , Hu Da-Gang
Published: April 2022

Ethylene-mediated leaf senescence and the compromise of photosynthesis are closely associated but the underlying molecular mechanism is a mystery. Here we reported that apple DEHYDRATASE-ENOLASE-PHOSPHATASE-COMPLEX1 (MdDEP1), initially characterized to its enzymatic function in the recycling of the ethylene precursor SAM, plays a role in the regulation of photosystem I (PSI) activity, activating reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis, and negatively regulating the leaf senescence. A series of Y2H, Pull-down, CO-IP and Cell-free degradation biochemical assays showed that MdDEP1 directly interacts with and dephosphorylates the nucleus-encoded thylakoid protein MdY3IP1, leading to the destabilization of MdY3IP1, reduction of the PSI activity, and the overproduction of ROS in plant cells. These findings elucidate a novel mechanism that the two pathways intersect at MdDEP1 due to its moonlighting role in destabilizing MdY3IP1, and synchronize ethylene-mediated leaf senescence and the compromise of photosynthesis.
The Relationship of Falls With Achieved 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels From Vitamin D Supplementation: The STURDY Trial
Authors: Michos Erin D , Kalyani Rita R , Blackford Amanda L , Sternberg Alice L , Mitchell Christine M , Juraschek Stephen P , Schrack Jennifer A , Wanigatunga Amal A , Roth David L , Christenson Robert H , Miller Edgar R , Appel Lawrence J
Published: April 2022

Context

The Study to Understand Fall Reduction and Vitamin D in You (STURDY), a randomized trial enrolling older adults with low 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], demonstrated vitamin D supplementation ≥ 1000 IU/day did not prevent falls compared with 200 IU/day, with doses ≥ 2000 IU/day potentially showing safety concerns.

Objective

To examine associations of achieved and change in 25(OH)D concentrations after 3 months of vitamin D supplementation with fall risk.

Design

Observational analysis of trial data.

Setting

General community.

Participants

A total of 637 adults aged ≥ 70 with baseline 25(OH)D concentrations 10 to 29 ng/mL and elevated fall risk. Three-month on-treatment absolute 25(OH)D; absolute and relative changes from baseline.

Main Outcome Measures

Incident first fall (primary) and first consequential fall (injury or sought medical care) up to 24 months. Cox models were adjusted for sociodemographics, season, Short Physical Performance Battery, and body mass index.

Results

At baseline, mean (SD) age was 77.1 (5.4) years and 25(OH)D was 22.1 (5.1) ng/mL; 43.0% were women and 21.5% non-White. A total of 395 participants experienced ≥ 1 fall; 294 experienced ≥ 1 consequential fall. There was no association between absolute achieved 25(OH)D and incident first fall (30-39 vs < 30 ng/mL hazard ratio [HR], 0.93; 95% CI, 0.74-1.16; ≥40 vs < 30 ng/mL HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.82-1.46; adjusted overall P = 0.67), nor absolute or relative change in 25(OH)D. For incident consequential first fall, the HR (95% CI) comparing absolute 25(OH)D ≥ 40 vs < 30 ng/mL was 1.38 (0.99-1.90).

Conclusion

Achieved 25(OH)D concentration after supplementation was not associated with reduction in falls. Risk of consequential falls may be increased with achieved concentrations ≥ 40 ng/mL.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02166333
Exercise and Fat Metabolism
Authors: Leslie Eric , Mermier Christine , Kravitz Len
Published: April 2022

Apply It!

• Several types of exercise promote fat burning, which provides flexibility in exercise prescription to achieve benefits in fat metabolism.

• Individualized exercise prescription, with any type of exercise, promotes exercise adherence and optimizes the training-related benefits in fat metabolism.
Μελέτη του ρόλου των CSF1R στην κακοήθη υπεζωκοτική συλλογή
Authors: Κωστή Χρυσαυγή
Published: April 2022

H κακοήθης υπεζωκοτική συλλογή (ΚΥΣ) αποτελεί συνήθη εκδήλωση ποικίλων νεοπλασιών για την οποία δεν υπάρχει αιτιολογική θεραπεία. Η δημιουργία της καθοδηγείται από σύνθετες αλληλεπιδράσεις μεταξύ καρκινικών κυττάρων, ανοσολογικών πληθυσμών και αγγειακού δικτύου. Τα μακροφάγα του όγκου (ΤΑΜ) αποτελούν τον κυρίαρχο φλεγμονώδη πληθυσμό της ΚΥΣ, με το Μ2 φαινότυπο να αποτελεί παράγοντα δυσμενούς πρόγνωσης. Είναι γνωστό ότι η Μ2 πόλωση πυροδοτείται από τη σηματοδότηση του άξονα Colony Stimulating Factor 1 (CSF1) /Colony Stimulating Factor Receptor 1 (CSF1R). Υποθέσαμε ότι τα CSF1R+ M2 μακροφάγα προάγουν το σχηματισμό ΚΥΣ και θα μπορούσαν να αποτελέσουν θεραπευτικό στόχο για την αντιμετώπισή της. Για το σκοπό αυτό δημιουργήσαμε ποντικούς με μακροφάγα ενδεή σε CSF1R και αναπτύξαμε ΚΥΣ από αδενοκαρκίνωμα πνεύμονα και παχέος εντέρου. Επιπλέον, εξετάσαμε το θεραπευτικό αποτέλεσμα ενός αναστολέα του CSF1R (BLZ945) σε συγγενή πειραματικά μοντέλα ΚΥΣ από αδενοκαρκίνωμα πνεύμονα και παχέος εντέρου. Από την παρούσα μελέτη προκύπτει ότι τα CSF1R+ μακροφάγα προωθούν το σχηματισμό ΚΥΣ, καθώς αυξάνουν την αγγειακή διαπερατότητα του υπεζωκότα, διαταράσσουν την ακεραιότητα του αγγειακού δικτύου και ενισχύουν τη σχετιζόμενη με τον καρκίνο ανοσοκαταστολή. Επίσης, δείχνουμε ότι ο φαρμακευτικός αποκλεισμός του CSF1R περιορίζει την ανάπτυξη ΚΥΣ μέσω μείωσης της αγγειακής διαπερατότητας και της αγγειογένεσης και αναχαίτησης της νεοπλασματικής διασποράς. Η τελευταία παρατήρηση αποδίδεται στο γεγονός ότι, εκτός των ΤΑΜ, ο CSF1R εκφράζεται στους ινοβλάστες του όγκου (CAF) σηματοδοτώντας την έκκριση MIP-2, η οποία πυροδοτεί στα μακροφάγα την εκδήλωση ανοσοκατασταλτικών και αγγειογενετικών ιδιοτήτων μέσω παρακρινούς δράσης στον CXCR2. Συνεπώς, ο φαρμακευτικός αποκλεισμός του CSF1R μπορεί να αποτελέσει ζωτική θεραπευτική στρατηγική για τον περιορισμό της ΚΥΣ.
High-quality genome assembly of a Pestalotiopsis fungus using DIY-friendly methods
Authors: McGinnis Joshua L. , Giguere Daniel J.
Published: April 2022

Of the millions of fungal species estimated to exist, about 100,000 have been identified, and only approximately 3000 of those have representative genome assemblies available. Here, we isolated a wild species of Pestalotiopsis from the Los Angeles area, extracted DNA in a low-cost environment (e.g., home lab), and generated a high-quality genome assembly using the low-cost Oxford Nanopore MinION sequencing platform. We found that Pestalotiopsis has a genome composed of 7 nuclear chromosomes, comprising 47.7 megabases. Using this genome, we perform a multi-locus phylogenetic analysis and finally, we discuss how this project (costing $300) demonstrates the increased accessibility of whole genome sequencing.
Women’s views and experiences of augmentation of labour with synthetic oxytocin infusion. A protocol for a qualitative evidence synthesis.
Authors: Alòs-Pereñíguez Silvia , O'Malley Deirdre , Daly Deirdre
Published: April 2022

Background: Augmentation of labour (AOL) is the most common intervention to treat labour dystocia. Previous research reported extensive disparities in AOL rates across countries and institutions.  Despite its widespread use, women’s views on and experiences of intrapartum augmentation with infused synthetic oxytocin are limited.

Methods: A qualitative evidence synthesis on women’s views and experiences of AOL with synthetic oxytocin after spontaneous onset of labour will be conducted. Qualitative studies and studies employing a mixed methods design, where qualitative data can be extracted separately, will be included, as will surveys with open-ended questions that provide qualitative data. A systematic search will be performed of the databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Maternity and Infant Care and Web of Science Core Collection from the date of inception. The methodological quality of included studies will be assessed using the Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Co-ordinating Centre’s appraisal tool. A three-stage approach, coding of data from primary studies, development of descriptive themes and generation of analytical themes, will be used to synthesise findings. Confidence in findings will be established by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation-Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research.

Discussion: This qualitative evidence synthesis may provide valuable information on women’s experiences of AOL and contribute to a review of clinical practice guidelines for maternity care providers.

PROSPERO registration: CRD42021285252 (14/11/2021)
Requirements for HR Specialist 2022
Authors: Suvalova Tatyana
Published: April 2022

The consequences of remote communication, the expansion of the information space, the shortage of talents have changed the requirements for professionals in the field of HR. "Hard" skills fade into the background. Today, such qualities as empathy, diplomacy, sociability, stress resistance, honesty, openness, ethics, etc. are more in demand. Employers are increasingly focusing on the soft skills of an HR specialist. The purpose of the study is to analyze the modern requirements for HR practices put forward by the labor market in 2022. The article focuses on innovation tendencies, technical culture, analytics in the field of personnel management, storage of electronic records. Particular attention is paid to working with business documents. HR professionals place a high value on ethical practice, placing it on par with communication skills in terms of the core competencies applicable to the profession. The role of branding is noted.
UN ACERCAMIENTO A LAS PRÁCTICAS FILOSÓFICAS EN LAS COMUNIDADES INDÍGENAS
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ CEPEDA CARLOS ALBERTO
Published: April 2022

En el siguiente trabajo, se pretende realizar un acercamiento a la noción de prácticas filosóficas dentro de las comunidades indígenas. Desde un enfoque interdisciplinario e intercultural, se analizan las condiciones de la filosofía indígena y se proponen cuatro categorías para abordar su estudio: a) Pensamiento simbólico, contradictorio y filial; b) Pensamiento antropomórfico, c) Pensamiento basado en una ontología relacional y d) La racionalidad experiencial. La intención de estas categorías es encontrar elementos ontológicos generales y que sirvan de marco para comprender mejor como las prácticas comunitarias, especialmente el diálogo comunitario y las prácticas medicinales, se pueden considerar como prácticas filosóficas que asumen generalidades de un pensamiento filosófico. Palabras clave: ontología relacional, prácticas filosóficas, comunidad indígena
Epifanie Doniosłej Tajemnicy. Zapiski z peregrynacji traktem wiodącym z Aten do Emaus
Authors: Święcicki Klaudiusz
Published: April 2022

EPIPHANIES OF SIGNIFICANT MYSTERY: NOTES FROM THE PEREGRINATION ALONG THE ROUTE FROM ATHENS TO EMMAUS In the presented article, I discuss the relationship between the Greek tragedy of the classical epoch and the medieval liturgical drama. They are commonly regarded as the roots of European theater. The ritual of Dionysus, present in the Greek tragedy, and the soteriological sacrifice of Christ, present in the liturgical drama, have the power of purification/redeeming of the human being. Aristotle described it as catharsis (κάθαρσις). Tragedy and liturgical drama also testify to the dialogical and dramatic relationship between God and Man. This cultural and religious experience is anthropological in nature, it is an important element of human existence. The article also discussed the nature of theater in early Christian writings, and focuses on how the barriers to performative activity were broken, and liturgical drama became an important element of the religious culture of the Latin Middle Ages. During the Resurrection Mass, it served as a visualization of the Significant Mystery, the essence of the Christian drama of Salvation.
„my katholicy Obrazom Świetym uczciwość oddajemy...” – o staropolskim kulcie obrazów w świetle tradycji o cudownych ocaleniach miast południowo-wschodniej Rzeczypospolitej podczas powstania Chmielnickiego
Authors: Błoński Jan J.
Published: April 2022

„US, CATHOLICS, WE WORSHIP HOLY IMAGES”: ON THE OLD POLISH CULT OF IMAGES IN THE LIGHT OF THE TRADITION OF MIRACULOUS SALVATIONS OF SOUTH-EASTERN POLISH CITIES DURING THE KHMELNYTSKY UPRISING Iconolatry had for centuries spread controversies among Christian communities. Nevertheless, in the early modern Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, adoration of images became one of the most common forms of popular and official religion. The article starts with a confrontation of modern anthropological theories (Tokarska-Bakir, Gadamer) with early modern sources to examine the ontological status of holy images and their relation to what they represented. The next part focuses on the origin myths of paintings coming from South- -Eastern Poland that emerged or gained popularity during the Khmelnytsky uprising (1648-1654). Elaborating on these legends, I investigate the “invention of tradition” (Hobsbawm, Ranger) and the way in which the supernatural causes gradually replaced more prosaic ones. In the last part, I indicate the possible functions of iconolatry and its role in early modern society.
éxito de los pilos: un estudio de caso
Authors: Meisel Roca Adolfo , Granger Serrano Angela
Published: April 2022

Ser Pilo Paga (SPP) fue un programa innovador que permitió el ingreso de un gran número de estudiantes de bajos recursos y buen desempeño a universidades colombianas de excelencia y, en particular, a universidades privadas tradicionalmente de élite. En este documento, se examina el desempeño académico de estos estudiantes y su influencia sobre el resto de la población estudiantil en la Universidad del Norte. El trabajo empírico conto con una base de mas de 4.000 estudiantes del Programa SPP que se matricularon en esta universidad. Los resultados muestran que los estudiantes de SPP no se rezagaron respecto a sus compañeros. Además, su presencia tuvo externalidades positivas sobre el desempeño académico de los estudiantes de ingresos más altos.
DESKRIPSI KEMAMPUAN KONEKSI MATEMATIKA SISWA DALAM MENYELESAIKAN SOAL KECEPATAN DAN DEBIT
Authors: Pontus Theresia Avila , Isnaedi Wiwi , Ellianawati Ellianawati
Published: April 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan kemampuan koneksi matematis siswa dalam menyelesaikan soal kecepatan dan debit. Metode yang digunakan adalah deskriptif dengan bentuk penelitian survey. Subjek penelitian ini adalah 34 siswa kelas V SDN Petompon 02. Alat pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah tes tertulis berbentuk essay. Hasil analisis data menunjukan bahwa kemampuan koneksi matematis siswa rendah.