bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric burden and seasonality of human metapneumovirus over 5 years in Managua, Nicaragua
Authors: Hacker Kathryn , Kuan Guillermina , Vydiswaran Nivea , Chowell‐Puente Gerardo , Patel Mayuri , Sanchez Nery , Lopez Roger , Ojeda Sergio , Lopez Brenda , Mousa Jarrod , Maier Hannah E. , Balmaseda Angel , Gordon Aubree
Published: August 2022

Background

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is an important cause of pediatric respiratory infection. We leveraged the Nicaraguan Pediatric Influenza Cohort Study (NPICS) to assess the burden and seasonality of symptomatic hMPV infection in children.

Methods

NPICS is an ongoing prospective study of children in Managua, Nicaragua. We assessed children for hMPV infection via real‐time reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). We used classical additive decomposition analysis to assess the temporal trends, and generalized growth models (GGMs) were used to estimate effective reproduction numbers.

Results

From 2011 to 2016, there were 564 hMPV symptomatic infections, yielding an incidence rate of 5.74 cases per 100 person‐years (95% CI 5.3, 6.2). Children experienced 3509 acute lower respiratory infections (ALRIs), of which 160 (4.6%) were associated with hMPV infection. Children under the age of one had 55% of all symptomatic hMPV infections (62/112) develop into hMPV‐associated ALRIs and were five times as likely as children over one to have an hMPV‐associated ALRI (rate ratio 5.5 95% CI 4.1, 7.4 p < 0.001). Additionally, symptomatic reinfection with hMPV was common. In total, 87 (15%) of all observed symptomatic infections were detected reinfections. The seasonality of symptomatic hMPV outbreaks varied considerably. From 2011 to 2016, four epidemic periods were observed, following a biennial seasonal pattern. The mean ascending phase of the epidemic periods were 7.7 weeks, with an overall mean estimated reproductive number of 1.2 (95% CI 1.1, 1.4).

Conclusions

Symptomatic hMPV infection was associated with substantial burden among children in the first year of life. Timing and frequency of symptomatic hMPV incidence followed biennial patterns.
The Capture of EU Football Regulation by the Football Governing Bodies
Authors: Meier Henk Erik , García Borja , Yilmaz Serhat , Chakawata Webster
Published: August 2022

The article traces how European football regulation has been ‘captured’ by the football governing bodies. The European Commission re‐aligned with the European football governing body Union des Associations Européennes de Football (UEFA), which enabled the latter to solidify its role as industry regulator. Four factors seem to account for the successful capture of European football regulation by UEFA. (1) UEFA enjoys a substantial mobilization advantage. (2) As legitimacy maximizer, the Commission avoids unnecessary confrontations. (3) Substantial interest heterogeneity amongst football stakeholders such as clubs, players and leagues prevented the emergence of strong countervailing constituencies to oppose UEFA regulatory proposals. (4) The legacy of amateur ideology in European football nurtures a strong socio‐cultural regulatory frame, which depicts the football governing bodies as trustees of the public interest in football as community institution. The findings come with implications for EU football regulation and the limits of the EU regulatory state.
Spontaneous intranasal tumours in degus (Octodon degus): 20 cases (2007‐2020)
Authors: Nakata M. , Miwa  , Wu C. C. , Chambers J. K. , Uchida K. , Shiga  , Nakayama H. , Sasaki
Published: August 2022

Objective

The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the clinical and histopathological findings associated with intranasal tumours in degus.

Materials and Methods

Medical records of degus diagnosed with intranasal neoplasms on histopathological examination between the years 2007 and 2020 at one hospital were included in the study.

Results Medical records of degus

Twenty degus (10 males and 10 females) were eligible for inclusion. Initial clinical signs included sneezing, abnormal nasal sounds, and nasal discharge, followed by anorexia and frequent nose rubbing. On radiography, 15 out of 20 animals showed space‐occupying lesions in the nasal cavity. CT was performed in 16 animals and revealed various degrees of changes, including abnormal radiopacity within the nasal cavity and damaged nasal septum. Rhinostomy and excisional biopsy was performed in all 20 animals. Six out of 20 patients died during the perioperative period. Six and seven degus survived for 3 months and 1 year, respectively. One animal was lost to follow‐up. In 16 cases the histological diagnosis was consistent with fibromas, while in 4 cases with osteomas.

Clinical Significance

Intranasal neoplasms in degus are mostly benign mesenchymal tumours with various degrees of bone formation, which is unique to this animal species. This occurrence should be considered as an important differential diagnosis for upper respiratory tract disease in degus.
Novel chlorine-extending polymer coating with prolonged antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Zhang Y. , Choi Y. W. , Demir B. , Ekbataniamiri F. , Fulton M. L. , Ma M. , Schang L. M. , Purevdorj-Gage L. , Qiao M.
Published: August 2022

We previously reported a novel polymeric surface coating, namely, HaloFilm™ that can immobilize and extend the antimicrobial activity of chlorine on surfaces. In this study, we demonstrated the continuous antiviral efficacy of HaloFilm when applied on stainless steel and cotton gauze as two representative models for non-porous and porous surfaces against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Forty-eight hours post HaloFilm application and chlorination and 2 h post the viral challenge, the inoculum titre was reduced by 2.25 ± 0.33 and ≥4.36 ± 0.23 log10 TCID50 on non-porous and porous surfaces, respectively. The half-life of the virus was shorter (13.86 min) on a HaloFilm-coated surface than what has been reported on copper (46.44 min).
Reticulocyte hemoglobin content changes after treatment of anemia of prematurity
Authors: Nii Mitsumaro , Okamoto Toshio , Sugiyama Tatsutoshi , Aoyama Aiko , Nagaya Ken
Published: August 2022

Background

Iron deficiency during infancy is associated with poor neurological development, but iron overload causes severe complications. Appropriate iron supplementation is therefore vital. Reticulocyte hemoglobin content (RET‐He) provides a real‐time assessment of iron status and chracterezes hemoglobin synthesis in preterm infants. However, the existing literature lacks detailed reports assessing chronological changes in RET‐He. The aim of this study was to assess the chronological changes in RET‐He during oral iron dietary supplementation, and concomitant therapy with recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) in preterm very low birthweight infants.

Methods

Very low birthweight infants, admitted to our neonatal intensive care unit were analyzed retrospectively. Hemoglobin (Hb), reticulocyte percentage (Ret), mean corpuscular volume, RET‐He, serum iron (Fe), and serum ferritin were recorded. Data at birth (T0), the initial day of rHuEPO therapy (T1), the initial day of oral iron supplementation (T2), 1–2 weeks (T3), 3–4 weeks (T4), 5–6 weeks (T5), and 7–8 weeks (T6) from the initial day of oral iron supplementation were extracted, and their changes over time were examined.

Results

Reticulocyte hemoglobin content was highest at birth and declined rapidly thereafter, especially after starting rHuEPO therapy. There was no upward trend in RET‐He after the initiation of oral iron supplementation, with a slower increase during 5–6 weeks after the initiation of iron therapy.

Conclusions

During the treatment of anemia of prematurity, low RET‐He levels may be prolonged. Anemia of prematurity should therefore be assessed and treated on a case‐by‐case basis, while considering the iron metabolic capacity of preterm infants.
International cooperation in foreign reserve policies in the presence of competitive hoarding
Authors: Lee Dongwon
Published: August 2022

This article analyzes the international reserve accumulation behavior of emerging and developing economies facing “keeping‐up‐with‐the‐Joneses” externalities. I first document empirical evidence for a significant Joneses effect, which has been particularly persistent in Asia and Latin America since the late 1990s. This peer‐pressure motive could encourage excess reserve hoarding, providing a rationale for cooperation. I then develop a theoretical model of the borrowing economy featuring the Joneses effect and the interdependence between reserves and domestic capital investment. Numerical results show that international cooperation can effectively internalize negative externalities associated with competitive reserve hoarding and induce welfare‐enhancing resource allocations.
Rapid brain MRI protocols result in comparable differential diagnoses versus a full brain protocol in most canine and feline cases
Authors: Johnson Kelsey A. , Sutherland‐Smith James , Oura Trisha J. , Sato Amy F. , Barton Bruce
Published: August 2022

Evaluation of brain disease in veterinary patients uses a wide variety of MRI sequences. A shortened protocol that maintains consistency of interpretation would reduce radiologist reporting time, patient anesthetic time, and client cost. The aims of this retrospective, methods comparison, observer agreement study were to evaluate whether abbreviated MRI protocols alter differential diagnoses and recommendations compared to our institution's standard protocol; evaluate interobserver agreement on standard brain MRIs; and assess whether differential diagnoses change after postcontrast images. Normal and pathologic canine and feline brain MRIs were retrieved from hospital archives. Three protocols were created from each: a 5‐sequence noncontrast enhanced Fast Brain Protocol 1 (FBP1); a 6‐sequence contrast‐enhanced Fast Brain Protocol 2 (FBP2); and an 11‐sequence standard brain protocol (SBP). Three blinded veterinary radiologists interpreted FBP images for 98 cases (1 reader/case) and SBP images for 20 cases (3 readers/case). A fourth observer compared these interpretations to the original MRI reports (OMR). Overall agreement between FBPs and OMR was good (k = 0.75) and comparable to interobserver agreement for multiple reviews of SBP cases. Postcontrast images substantially altered conclusions in 17/97 cases (17.5%), as well as improved interobserver agreement compared to noncontrast studies. The conclusions reached with shortened brain protocols were comparable to those of a full brain study. The findings supported the use of a 6‐sequence brain MRI protocol (sagittal T2‐weighted [T2w] TSE; transverse T2w turbo spin echo fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery, T2*‐weighted gradient recalled echo, T1‐weighted spin echo, and diffusion weighted imaging/apparent diffusion coefficient; and postcontrast transverse T1‐weighted spin echo) for dogs and cats with suspected intracranial disease.
Alterations to the synovial invaginations of the navicular bone are associated with pathology of both the navicular apparatus and distal interphalangeal joint when evaluated using high field MRI
Authors: McParland Thomas J. , Horne Caitlyn R. , Robertson James B. , Schnabel Lauren V. , Nelson Nathan C.
Published: August 2022

Limited information exists regarding associations between distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) abnormalities and synovial invagination changes in the distal sesamoid (navicular) bone. This retrospective, analytical study aimed to measure specific characteristics of the synovial invaginations of the navicular bone to determine whether any single characteristic was associated with abnormalities in the DIPJ or navicular apparatus (NA) using high field MRI and a sample of 200 horses’ feet. The DIPJ and NA were graded independently by three scorers. The grades were averaged, creating a global pathology score for the DIPJ, NA, and synovial invaginations. Higher global scores represented more severe pathology. The number of invaginations, depth of penetration, invagination shape, and cross‐sectional area (CSA) of the largest invagination were recorded. Interobserver agreement was measured using Cohen's Kappa. Associations of global scores of the DIPJ and NA with individual invagination characteristics were assessed using linear mixed modeling. A significant relationship was found between the number of invaginations and global DIPJ score, with higher invagination numbers associated with higher DIPJ scores. For invagination depth and CSA, a significant relationship was noted with global scores of both the DIPJ and NA. Reliable relationships between the shape of synovial invaginations and global scores of DIPJ and NA were not found, likely due to poor interobserver scoring (0.305). These findings suggest that primary DIPJ disease and NA pathology should be considered when noticing alterations to navicular synovial invaginations on MRI. This contrasts traditional views that synovial invagination abnormalities are indicative solely of NA pathology.
Lysocin E Targeting Menaquinone in the Membrane of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Is a Promising Lead Compound for Antituberculosis Drugs
Authors: Geberetsadik Geberemichal , Inaizumi Akane , Nishiyama Akihito , Yamaguchi Takehiro , Hamamoto Hiroshi , Panthee Suresh , Tamaru Aki , Hayatsu Manabu , Mizutani Yusuke , Kaboso Shaban Amina , Hakamata Mariko , Ilinov Aleksandr , Ozeki Yuriko , Tateishi Yoshitaka , Sekimizu Kazuhisa , Matsumoto Sohkichi
Published: August 2022

Tuberculosis remains a public health crisis and a health security threat. There is an urgent need to develop new antituberculosis drugs with novel modes of action to cure drug-resistant tuberculosis and shorten the chemotherapy period by sterilizing tissues infected with dormant bacteria.
Invasive Group A Streptococcal Penicillin Binding Protein 2× Variants Associated with Reduced Susceptibility to β-Lactam Antibiotics in the United States, 2015–2021
Authors: Chochua Sopio , Metcalf Benjamin , Li Zhongya , Mathis Saundra , Tran Theresa , Rivers Joy , Fleming-Dutra Katherine E. , Li Yuan , McGee Lesley , Beall Bernard
Published: August 2022

All known group A streptococci [GAS] are susceptible to β-lactam antibiotics. We recently identified an invasive GAS (iGAS) variant (
emm43.4
/PBP2x-T553K) with unusually high minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for ampicillin and amoxicillin, although clinically susceptible to β-lactams. We aimed to quantitate PBP2x variants, small changes in β-lactam MICs, and lineages within contemporary population-based iGAS. PBP2x substitutions were comprehensively identified among 13,727 iGAS recovered during 2015-2021, in the USA. Isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing employing low range agar diffusion and PBP2x variants were subjected to phylogenetic analyses. Fifty-five variants were defined based upon substitutions within an assigned PBP2x transpeptidase domain. Twenty-nine of these variants, representing 338/13,727 (2.5%) isolates and 16
emm
types, exhibited slightly elevated β-lactam MICs, none of which were above clinical breakpoints.
Genomic Analysis of a Strain Collection Containing Multidrug-, Extensively Drug-, Pandrug-, and Carbapenem-Resistant Modern Clinical Isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Valcek Adam , Nesporova Kristina , Whiteway Clémence , De Pooter Tim , De Coster Wouter , Strazisar Mojca , Van der Henst Charles
Published: August 2022

In this study, we characterize a new collection that comprises multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), pandrug-resistant (PDR), and carbapenem-resistant modern clinical isolates of
Acinetobacter baumannii
collected from hospitals through national microbiological surveillance in Belgium. Bacterial isolates (
n
= 43) were subjected to whole-genome sequencing (WGS), combining Illumina (MiSeq) and Nanopore (MinION) technologies, from which high-quality genomes (chromosome and plasmids) were
de novo
assembled.
Evaluation of MALDI Biotyper Mycobacteria Library for Identification of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria
Authors: Toney Nadege C. , Zhu Wenming , Jensen Bette , Gartin Jarrett , Anderson Karen , Lonsway David , Karlsson Maria , Rasheed J. Kamile
Published: August 2022

The Bruker Biotyper matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) platform was assessed on its ability to accurately identify 314 nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) representing 73 species. All NTM isolates, representing 183 rapidly growing and 131 slowly growing organisms, were previously identified by Sanger DNA sequencing of the full-length 16S rRNA gene, and region V of the
rpoB
gene.
A Microbial Piñata: Bacterial Endosymbionts of Trichomonas vaginalis Come in Different Flavors
Authors: Aquino Marina Ferrari de , Simoes-Barbosa Augusto
Published: August 2022

The protozoan parasite
Trichomonas vaginalis
causes trichomoniasis, a prevalent human urogenital infection with significant morbidity that is commonly associated with vaginal dysbiosis. Exacerbation of
T. vaginalis
pathogenicity has been related to endosymbionts, including mycoplasma, and thought for a while to be solely attributable to
Mycoplasma hominis
.
Paranoid posting
Authors: Johnson Jillian Christine
Published: August 2022

General paranoia is the term that best describes a user's social media experience. The spaces we go to socialize online are full of suspicion, potential bad-faith actors, and advertisements that seem to know your every move. This attention-grabbing, habit-forming culture is sold on dreams of limitless love between family, friends, and community (as promised by the Facebook slogan "bring the world closer together"). Genuine connection can be found online, but the heart of this network lies outside fiber optic cables.
Effect of muscone on anti-apoptotic ability of muskrat prostate primary cells
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhao Xuefei , Man Xin , Ma Yue , Zhang Wei , Wang Yu , Lei Xing , Bai Suying
Published: August 2022

Muskrat is a small fur animal with a pair of scent glands that can secrete muskrat musk during breeding season. The consensus is muskrat musk functions as a pheromone, but we hypothesized it has a broader role. In previous research, we found the presence of muscone in muskrat musk. To study whether the muscone can affect the apoptosis of muskrat prostate, we carried out the following investigations. Primary muskrat prostate cells were cultured and treated with muscone. Then we drew cell proliferation curves by applying the CCK-8 and used TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) to detect apoptosis. Levels of mRNA transcription and protein expression of Bcl-2 as well as Bax were detected by qRT-PCR and the Western blot. Meanwhile, we collected tissue samples of muskrat prostates and froze sections to analyze the fluorescence signal intensity of BCL-2 and BAX via immunofluorescence. Under the treatment of 30 μmol/L muscone, the proliferation rate of the experimental group exceeded that of the control group, and the proportion of cells undergoing apoptosis was lower in the experimental group. The qRT-PCR and Western blot result showed that, in the experimental group, the ratio of Bcl-2 to Bax mRNA transcription levels increased by 2.85 times and their corresponding protein expression ratio increased by 2.37 times ( P < 0.05). Immunofluorescence results were consistent with the cell experiment’s results. The fluorescence signal intensity of BCL-2 was higher in the breeding season than nonbreeding season but vice versa for BAX. Based on these results, we speculate that the muscone could regulates prostate development by inhibiting apoptosis.
miR-29b Regulates Lung Cancer Progression by Downregulating FEM1B and Inhibiting the FOX01/AKT Pathway
Authors: Zhang Huanrong , Wang Rong , Deng Qiuhua
Published: August 2022

Purpose. Lung cancer is a relatively common type of cancer, and the incidence rate has been on the rise in recent years. MicroRNAs are a class of endogenous small RNA molecules, which are essential for the posttranscriptional regulation of genes. miR-29b is closely related to the occurrence and development of tumors, including prostate cancer, colon cancer, and breast cancer. However, few studies have been performed to explore the expression and pathway of miR-29b in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods. Using bioinformatics analysis, we found that patients with low relative expression of the miR-29b gene have a low long-term survival rate. The results of in vitro research showed that when miR-29b expression was upregulated, the invasion, migration, and proliferation of A549 and NCI-H-1792 cells was inhibited, and the apoptosis was accelerated. Results. The results showed that FEM1B is a miR-29b target gene, and the expressions of FEM1B and miR-29b were negatively correlated. Like the upregulation of miR-29b expression, silencing the FEM1B expression could also impair the invasion, migration, and proliferation abilities of A549 and NCI-H-1792 cells. When FEM1B expression was restored, the inhibitory effect of miR-29b could be reversed. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot (WB) analysis showed that overexpression of miR-29b could inhibit the expression of FEM1B, AKT, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and Sirt3 in A549 and NCI-H-1792 cells and upregulate the expression of FOXO1 protein. Conclusion. The results of this study indicate that miR-29b inhibits the proliferation and deterioration of NSCLC cells by targeting FEM1B and inhibiting the activation of the FOXO1/AKT pathway. miR-29b may become a new target for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, and it is expected to become a new inhibitor of NSCLC.
Intervention Effect of Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Block on the Treatment for Low Back Pain with Radicular Pain
Authors: Luo Qingtian , Jiang Cuihua , Chen Liqing , Zhu Qing
Published: August 2022

Lumbar transforaminal epidural block (LTEB) is a minimally invasive interventional method, and the interventional effect of LTEB on the treatment of low back pain with radicular pain is not yet clear; therefore, a total of 100 patients with low back pain with radicular pain treated in our hospital from January 2021 to December 2021 were included in this study, and they were divided into two groups of 50 each using a digital double-blind method. The control group was treated conservatively, and the study group was treated with LTEB. Patients’ pain was assessed using the numerical rating scale (NRS), and the degree of functional impairment was assessed using the Oswestry disability index (ODI). The results of the study showed comparable differences in NRS scores for low back pain, NRS scores for lower extremities, and ODI scores of patients before treatment (

t
=
0.071
,
0.035
,
0.007

,

P
>
0.05

). After treatment, patients in the control group had a low back pain NRS score (

4.00
±
0.85

), lower extremity NRS score (

3.87
±
0.78

), ODI score (

58.25
±
2.53

), and low back pain NRS score (

2.00
±
0.54

), while the study group had a lower extremity NRS score (

2.00
±
0.50

) and ODI score (

58.25
±
2.53

) that were statistical significance (

t
=
0.071
,
0.035
,
24.218

,

P
<
0.001

). In conclusion, treatment with LTEB can effectively reduce the pain and improve the functional impairment of patients with low back pain with radicular pain, which is clinically important.
TCR-Independent Metabolic Reprogramming Precedes Lymphoma-Driven Changes in T-cell Fate
Authors: Hesterberg Rebecca S. , Liu Min , Elmarsafawi Aya G. , Koomen John M. , Welsh Eric A. , Hesterberg Stephen G. , Ranatunga Sujeewa , Yang Chunying , Li Weimin , Lawrence Harshani R. , Rodriguez Paulo C. , Berglund Anders E. , Cleveland John L.
Published: August 2022

Chronic T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling in the tumor microenvironment is known to promote T-cell dysfunction. However, we reasoned that poorly immunogenic tumors may also compromise T cells by impairing their metabolism. To address this, we assessed temporal changes in T-cell metabolism, fate, and function in models of B-cell lymphoma driven by Myc, a promoter of energetics and repressor of immunogenicity. Increases in lymphoma burden most significantly impaired CD4+ T-cell function and promoted regulatory T cell (Treg) and Th1-cell differentiation. Metabolomic analyses revealed early reprogramming of CD4+ T-cell metabolism, reduced glucose uptake, and impaired mitochondrial function, which preceded changes in T-cell fate. In contrast, B-cell lymphoma metabolism remained robust during tumor progression. Finally, mitochondrial functions were impaired in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in lymphoma-transplanted OT-II and OT-I transgenic mice, respectively. These findings support a model, whereby early, TCR-independent, metabolic interactions with developing lymphomas limits T cell–mediated immune surveillance.
NetrinG1+ Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Generate Unique Extracellular Vesicles that Support the Survival of Pancreatic Cancer Cells Under Nutritional Stress
Authors: Raghavan Kristopher S. , Francescone Ralph , Franco-Barraza Janusz , Gardiner Jaye C. , Vendramini-Costa Débora B. , Luong Tiffany , Pourmandi Narges , Andren Anthony , Kurimchak Alison , Ogier Charline , Campbell Paul M. , Duncan James S. , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Languino Lucia R. , Cukierman Edna
Published: August 2022

It is projected that in 5 years, pancreatic cancer will become the second deadliest cancer in the United States. A unique aspect of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is its stroma; rich in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and a dense CAF-generated extracellular matrix (ECM). These pathogenic stroma CAF/ECM units cause the collapse of local blood vessels rendering the tumor microenvironment nutrient-poor. PDAC cells are able to survive this state of nutrient stress via support from CAF-secreted material, which includes small extracellular vesicles (sEV). The tumor-supportive CAFs possess a distinct phenotypic profile, compared with normal-like fibroblasts, expressing NetrinG1 (NetG1) at the plasma membrane, and active Integrin α5β1 localized to the multivesicular bodies; traits indicative of poor patient survival. We herein report that NetG1+ CAFs secrete sEVs that stimulate Akt-mediated survival in nutrient-deprived PDAC cells, protecting them from undergoing apoptosis. Furthermore, we show that NetG1 expression in CAFs is required for the prosurvival properties of sEVs. In addition, we report that the above-mentioned CAF markers are secreted in distinct subpopulations of EVs; with NetG1 being enriched in exomeres, and Integrin α5β1 being enriched in exosomes. Finally, we found that NetG1 and Integrin α5β1 were detected in sEVs collected from plasma of patients with PDAC, while their levels were significantly lower in plasma-derived sEVs of sex/age-matched healthy donors. The discovery of these tumor-supporting CAF-EVs elucidates novel avenues in tumor–stroma interactions and pathogenic stroma detection.

Significance:

Results from this study identified two unique types of tumor-supporting CAF EVs, with evidence of these being detected in patients. Thus, this study facilitates a novel avenue to further dissect the subtleties of the tumor–stroma interactions responsible for PDAC homeostasis and progression, as well as the possibility of establishing future means to detect and monitor dynamic stroma staging.
Influence of Three Feedback Conditions on Performing a Swallow Motor Pattern in Healthy Adults
Authors: Galek Kristine E. , Bice Ed M. , Allen Katie
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Motor learning is the process involved in acquiring and refining motor skills, which relies on accurate practice and feedback. The purpose of the current investigation was to examine the influence of three types of feedback on successfully performing a swallow motor pattern of a common swallowing intervention known as the Mendelsohn maneuver (MM). Method: One hundred twenty healthy participants were randomized to one of three feedback conditions: (1) visual and verbal feedback (VVF), (2) verbal feedback only (VF), and (3) intrinsic feedback (IF). Participants were asked to perform a swallow motor pattern associated with the MM. Data were collected using surface electromyography. Results: Percentages of participants who performed the pattern successfully and the time required to complete three successful swallowing patterns were significantly different by the feedback condition. The feedback conditions influenced the performance of the MM swallow motor pattern. One hundred percent of the participants randomized to the VVF condition performed the motor pattern successfully and performed three consecutive successful trails in a shorter time period (211 s; χ2 (2) = 95.95, p < 0.001) when compared to the VF condition (74% performed in 505 s) and the IF condition (18% performed in 826 s; χ2 (2) = 95.96, p < 0.001). However, considering the participants who met the performance criteria, the number of repetition attempts required to correctly produce the MM pattern did not differ significantly between the three feedback conditions (χ2 (2) = 14.86, p = 0.81). Conclusion: Visual and verbal feedback improves the performance of the MM and decreases the time to perform three successful MM swallowing patterns in healthy adults.
Barreiras ao acesso das pessoas com deficiência aos serviços de saúde: uma revisão de escopo
Authors: Clemente Karina Aparecida Padilha , Silva Simone Vieira da , Vieira Gislene Inoue , Bortoli Maritsa Carla de , Toma Tereza Setsuko , Ramos Vinícius Delgado , Brito Christina May Moran de
Published: August 2022

OBJETIVO Analisar as evidências científicas relativas às barreiras para o acesso de pessoas com deficiência aos serviços de saúde. MÉTODOS Realizou-se uma revisão de escopo estabelecendo-se a perguntanorteadora: “Quais são as principais barreiras que as pessoas com deficiência enfrentam no acesso a serviços de saúde?” O levantamento dos artigos foi realizado em julho de 2019, em seis bases de dados de literatura científica. Dos 1.155 documentos identificados nas buscas, após seleção por título e resumo, foram lidas na íntegra 170 publicações e, após leitura, 96 artigos foram incluídos e categorizados conforme referencial teórico. RESULTADOS As principais barreiras indicadas pelos usuários do serviço foram: comunicação falha entre profissionais e paciente/cuidador; limitações financeiras; questões atitudinais/comportamentais; oferta de serviços escassa; barreiras organizacionais e de transporte. As principais barreiras apresentadas pelos prestadores de serviços foram: falta de treinamento/capacitação aos profissionais; falha do sistema de saúde; barreiras físicas; falta de recursos/tecnologia e barreiras de idioma. CONCLUSÕES Ficou evidente que as pessoas com deficiência enfrentam diversas barreiras ao tentarem acesso aos serviços de saúde de que necessitam e que usuários e profissionais de saúde têm visões distintas e complementares sobre as dificuldades.
Targeting SIRT1 Rescues Age- and Obesity-Induced Microvascular Dysfunction in Ex Vivo Human Vessels
Authors: Mengozzi Alessandro , Costantino Sarah , Paneni Francesco , Duranti Emiliano , Nannipieri Monica , Mancini Rudj , Lai Michele , La Rocca Veronica , Puxeddu Ilaria , Antonioli Luca , Fornai Matteo , Ghionzoli Marco , Georgiopoulos Georgios , Ippolito Chiara , Bernardini Nunzia , Ruschitzka Frank , Pugliese Nicola Riccardo , Taddei Stefano , Virdis* Agostino , Masi Stefano
Published: August 2022

Background:

Experimental evidence suggests a key role of SIRT1 (silent information regulator 1) in age- and metabolic-related vascular dysfunction. Whether these effects hold true in the human microvasculature is unknown. We aimed to investigate the SIRT1 role in very early stages of age- and obesity-related microvascular dysfunction in humans.

Methods:

Ninety-five subjects undergoing elective laparoscopic surgery were recruited and stratified based on their body mass index status (above or below 30 kg/m
2
) and age (above or below 40 years) in 4 groups: Young Nonobese, Young Obese, Old Nonobese, and Old Obese. We measured small resistance arteries’ endothelial function by pressurized micromyography before and after incubation with a SIRT1 agonist (SRT1720) and a mitochondria reactive oxygen species (mtROS) scavenger (MitoTEMPO). We assessed vascular levels of mtROS and nitric oxide availability by confocal microscopy and vascular gene expression of SIRT1 and mitochondrial proteins by qPCR. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay was employed to investigate SIRT1-dependent epigenetic regulation of mitochondrial proteins.

Results:

Compared with Young Nonobese, obese and older patients showed lower vascular expression of SIRT1 and antioxidant proteins (FOXO3 [forkhead box protein O3] and SOD2) and higher expression of pro-oxidant and aging mitochondria proteins p66
Shc
and Arginase II. Old Obese, Young Obese and Old Nonobese groups endothelial dysfunction was rescued by SRT1720. The restoration was comparable to the one obtained with mitoTEMPO. These effects were explained by SIRT1-dependent chromatin changes leading to reduced p66
Shc
expression and upregulation of proteins involved in mitochondria respiratory chain.

Conclusions:

SIRT1 is a novel central modulator of the earliest microvascular damage induced by age and obesity. Through a complex epigenetic control mainly involving p66
Shc
and Arginase II, it influences mtROS levels, NO availability, and the expression of proteins of the mitochondria respiratory chain. Therapeutic modulation of SIRT1 restores obesity- and age-related endothelial dysfunction. Early targeting of SIRT1 might represent a crucial strategy to prevent age- and obesity-related microvascular dysfunction.
Exploring Group Differences in the Crossmodal Correspondences
Authors: Spence Charles
Published: August 2022

There has been a rapid growth of interest amongst researchers in the cross-modal correspondences in recent years. In part, this has resulted from the emerging realization of the important role that the correspondences can sometimes play in multisensory integration. In turn, this has led to an interest in the nature of any differences between individuals, or rather, between groups of individuals, in the strength and/or consensuality of cross-modal correspondences that may be observed in both neurotypically normal groups cross-culturally, developmentally, and across various special populations (including those who have lost a sense, as well as those with autistic tendencies). The hope is that our emerging understanding of such group differences may one day provide grounds for supporting the reality of the various different types of correspondence that have so far been proposed, namely structural, statistical, semantic, and hedonic (or emotionally mediated).
Spatial distribution of species richness and endemism of Solanum (Solanaceae) in Mexico
Authors: MURILLO-PÉREZ GERALDINE , RODRÍGUEZ AARÓN , SÁNCHEZ-CARBAJAL DANIEL , RUIZ-SANCHEZ EDUARDO , CARRILLO-REYES PABLO , MUNGUÍA-LINO GUADALUPE
Published: August 2022

The spatial distribution of the species richness is not aleatory. It responds to evolutionary, geographical, and climatic events, and it is important to establish biodiversity management and conservation priorities. The mountainous zones around the globe have been identified as centers of plant diversification. In Mexico, the Mexican Transition Zone (MTZ) which comprises the main mountainous chains is recognized as an area of high species richness and endemism. The genus Solanum (Solanaceae) includes 1228 accepted species distributed all over the world, but with centers of species richness and endemism in the neotropical mountains. Based on patterns observed in geographical distribution of Mexican biodiversity, we expect the MTZ to host the highest species richness and endemism of Solanum. Here, we evaluated the spatial distribution of the species richness and endemism of Solanum in Mexico. For that purpose, we used 10043 unique georeferenced records obtained from herbarium specimens, specimens cited in literature and electronic databases. Then, we quantified species richness and endemism using biogeographical regions and provinces, a grid-cell of 50 × 50 km, political division, vegetation types, elevational, latitudinal, as well as longitudinal gradients. In addition, we analyzed endemism through weighted endemism and corrected weighted endemism. In Mexico, there were 134 species of Solanum including 43 endemics. The species richness and endemism were concentrated along the MTZ, specifically in the Chiapas Highlands, Sierra Madre del Sur (SMS), and Transmexican Volcanic Belt (TVB). Eight cells containing 63.43% of the species were obtained in the grid-cell analysis. The species richness distribution assessment by vegetation type, elevation, and political division confirmed the MTZ as the richest region. Likewise, the endemism was found along the MTZ in the Sierra Madre Oriental, SMS, TVB as well as in Chihuahuan Desert. Complex geological and paleoclimatic history, irregular topography, current climate diversity, dispersal, and persistence influenced these patterns. Lastly, we confirmed the remarkable importance of the MTZ as a center of origin, diversification and endemism of Mexican plants, using one of the most representative genera in Mexico.
A new genus of tiger beetle (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) from the Nearctic and Neotropical realms
Authors: DURAN DANIEL P. , GOUGH HARLAN M.
Published: August 2022

The taxonomically problematic tiger beetle species, Cylindera lemniscata (LeConte, 1854), has been difficult to place within the Nearctic fauna because of its peculiar morphological characteristics which were noted in its description, and by subsequent workers. Molecular phylogenetic studies of the late 1990s and early 2000s were similarly unable to reach a consensus about its systematic placement. More recently, a densely sampled mtDNA genealogy recovered Cy. lemniscata as a monotypic clade that is sister to a larger clade of Nearctic tiger beetles that included species of Dromochorus Guérin-Méneville, 1845, Ellipsoptera Dokhtouroff, 1883 and Parvindela Duran & Gough, 2019. In this present study, morphological characters were assessed for Cy. lemniscata and all of the above taxa, as well as members of the genus Brasiella Rivalier, 1954 and Cicindelidia cardini (Leng & Mutchler, 1916), a poorly known Cuban endemic with markings that are remarkably similar to Cy. lemniscata. The consensus of molecular and morphological analyses indicates that Cy. lemniscata is not congeneric with any other species, and as such, we erect Jundlandia Duran & Gough 2022, new genus, to accommodate this unique taxon. Future molecular work may determine that Ci. cardini may belong in Jundlandia.
Continental Geometry’s Role in Shaping Wintertime Temperature Variance
Authors: Neumann Nicole K. , Lutsko Nicholas J.
Published: August 2022

The factors controlling the present-day pattern of temperature variance are poorly understood. In particular, it is unclear why the variance of wintertime near-surface temperatures on daily and synoptic time scales is roughly twice as high over North America as over Eurasia. In this study, continental geometry’s role in shaping regional wintertime temperature variance is investigated using idealized climate model simulations run with midlatitude continents of different shapes. An isolated, rectangular midlatitude continent suggests that in the absence of other geographic features, the highest temperature variance will be located in the northwest of the continent, roughly collocated with the region of largest meridional temperature gradients, and just north of the maximum near-surface wind speeds. Simulations with other geometries, mimicking key features of North America and Eurasia, investigate the impacts of continental length and width, sloping coastlines, and inland bodies of water on regional temperature variance. The largest effect comes from tapering the northwest corner of the continent, similar to Eurasia, which substantially reduces the maximum temperature variance. Narrower continents have smaller temperature variance in isolation, implying that the high variances over North America must be due to the nonlocal influence of stationary waves. Support for this hypothesis is provided by simulations with two midlatitude continents, which show how continental geometry and stationary waves can combine to shape regional temperature variance.

Significance Statement

Wintertime temperature variance over North America is roughly twice as high as over Eurasia, but the reasons for this are unknown. Here we use idealized climate model simulations to investigate how continental geometry shapes regional temperature variance. We find that the smaller variance over Eurasia is largely due to the tapering of its northwest coast, which weakens temperature gradients in the continental interior. Our simulations also suggest that in isolation a narrow continent, like North America, should have weak temperature variance, implying that stationary waves are responsible for the high variance over North America. Understanding the controls on regional temperature variance is important for interpreting present-day winter climates and how these will change in the future.
Retained Dental Implant in the Maxillary Sinus
Authors: Liu Derek , Jang Sophie , Suh Jeffrey D. , Borrelli Michela , Nasrollahi Tasha , Raskin Jonathan , Ference Elisabeth H.
Published: August 2022

Implant dentistry has become a popularized means of replacing damaged or missing teeth. Although it has become common practice, there are accounts of implants displacing into surrounding structures, commonly the maxillary sinus. We present the case of a 54-year-old man who presented with chronic left sided pain and pressure found to be secondary to a displaced implant obstructing the left maxillary outflow sinus tract. A systematic review was conducted to assess the current management and treatment options for dental implants displaced into the maxillary sinus. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and the lateral window approach were both found to be safe techniques with minimal postoperative complications.
Pelvis and Trunk Energy Flow in Collegiate Softball Pitchers With and Without Upper Extremity Pain
Authors: Bordelon Nicole M. , Wasserberger Kyle W. , Downs-Talmage Jessica L. , Friesen Kenzie B. , Dugas Jeffrey R. , Oliver Gretchen D.
Published: August 2022

Background:

The softball pitch is a full-body motion, where efficient proximal to distal energy flow through the kinetic chain is said to reduce stress at the upper extremity. Although altered trunk kinematic parameters are associated with upper extremity pain in softball pitchers, further research is needed to determine whether differences exist in proximal energy flow between softball pitchers with and without pain.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

To examine pelvis and trunk energy flow during the acceleration phase of the pitch in collegiate softball pitchers with and without upper extremity pain. It was hypothesized that those with upper extremity pain would have less energy flowing into the proximal ends of the pelvis and trunk as well as less energy flowing out of the distal ends of the pelvis and trunk during the acceleration phase when compared with pitchers who did not have upper extremity pain.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 54 female National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I softball pitchers (age, 20.2 ± 2.0 years; height, 173.5 ± 6.9 cm; weight, 78.5 ± 11.5 kg) were assigned to pain (n = 17) and pain-free (n = 38) groups. Participants pitched 3 maximal effort rise-balls for a strike, and the average of the 3 trials was used for analysis. Kinematic data were collected at 100 Hz using an electromagnetic tracking system. A segment power analysis was performed to quantify energy flow for the pelvis and trunk. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare pelvis and trunk energy flow during the acceleration phase of the pitch as well as pitch velocity between collegiate softball pitchers with and without upper extremity pain.

Results:

No significant differences were found between pelvis and trunk energy flow during the acceleration phase or pitch velocity between collegiate softball pitchers with and without upper extremity pain (all P values >.057).

Conclusion:

Previous research determined that kinematic parameters differ between collegiate pitchers with and without upper extremity pain. However, the current study found no difference in pelvis and trunk energy flow or pitch velocity. Although altered kinematics in collegiate pitchers with upper extremity pain may serve as compensation patterns to maintain pitch velocity and proximal energy flow, future research is needed to confirm this postulation.

Clinical Relevance:

The lack of energy flow differences between upper extremity pain groups suggests that pitchers may adapt their biomechanics to maintain trunk and pelvis energy flow patterns. Coaches, athletes, and clinicians should know that movement adaptations can allow for maintained performance levels but may result in the presence of pain that may manifest in other deleterious and injury-susceptible biomechanics.
Sexual history of human monkeypox patients seen at a tertiary hospital in Bayelsa, Nigeria.
Authors: Ogoina Dimie , Yinka-Ogunleye Adesola
Published: August 2022

Background: Human monkeypox (HMPX) is currently spreading outside endemic countries in Africa and the majority of those affected are gay and bisexual men within interconnected sexual networks. We investigated the sexual history of HMPX cases seen at a tertiary hospital in Bayelsa State during the 2017–2018 outbreak in Nigeria.

Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted between 20 October 2017 and 2 January 2019 among adult confirmed/probable HMPX cases. A questionnaire was used to collect data on the sexual history of participants, including sexual contact in relation to the first symptom, and high-risk behaviours (HRB) such as a history of condomless casual sex, multiple sexual partners, and transactional sex.

Results: Of 21 patients, 16 (76.2%) gave consent to participate in the study: age range of 22–43 years, 75% males, three (18.8%) HIV-1 positive, and 13 (81.2%) with genital ulcers. Nine (56.2%) of participants reported HRB, and all were male heterosexuals. Eight of the 16 participants (50%) reported having sex within a month before their first symptom, and five (62.5%) of this number reported HRB. There were two cases of sex with a partner with a non-genital rash, and a spouse who developed a vulval ulcer four days after sex with her husband.

Conclusion: Our results support the role of sexual contact in the transmission of monkeypox among some confirmed cases from Nigeria. However, future elaborate studies are required to confirm if sexual behaviour and sexual transmission are associated with HMPX in Nigeria.