bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene and prognostic value of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification regulatory factors in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Di , Zhang DanDan , Wang Chen , Yang XiaoLi , Zhang RongQiang , Li Qiang , Xiong YongMin
Published: September 2021

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, and its incidence continues to increase. The treatment of lung cancer is related to the subtypes and stages of cancer, but the therapeutic effect is still unsatisfactory. We found that 10 of the 13 genes were differentially expressed in lung cancer, YTHDF1, RBM15, HNRNPC, KIAA1429, METTL3 and YTHDF2 are high expression while METTL14, ZC3H13, FTO and WTAP are low expression. HNRNPC and METTL3 genes were associated with the risk and prognosis of LUAD and could regard as biomarkers for early diagnosis and treatment, which provides a theoretical basis for LUAD.
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment on keloid tumor immune gene expression
Authors: Wang Chun-Hu , Shan Meng-Jie , Liu Hao , Hao Yan , Song Ke-Xin , Wu Huan-Wen , Meng Tian , Feng Cheng , Qi Zheng , Wang Zhi , Wang You-Bin
Published: September 2021

Background:

Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) has been demonstrated to influence the keloid recurrence rate after surgery and to relieve keloid symptoms and other pathological processes in keloids. To explore the mechanism of the effect of HBOT on keloids, tumor immune gene expression and immune cell infiltration were studied in this work.

Methods:

From February 2021 to April 2021, HBOT was carried out on keloid patients four times before surgery. Keloid tissue samples were collected and divided into an HBOT group (keloid with HBOT before surgery [HK] group, n = 6) and a non-HBOT group (K group, n = 6). Tumor gene expression was analyzed with an Oncomine Immune Response Research Assay kit. Data were mined with R package. The differentially expressed genes between the groups were compared. Hub genes between the groups were determined and verified with Quantitative Real-time PCR. Immune cell infiltration was analyzed based on CIBERSORT deconvolution algorithm analysis of gene expression and verified with immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results:

Inflammatory cell infiltration was reduced in the HK group. There were 178 upregulated genes and 217 downregulated genes. Ten hub genes were identified, including Integrin Subunit Alpha M (ITGAM), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-2, Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor Type C (PTPRC), CD86, transforming growth factor (TGF), CD80, CTLA4, and IL-10. CD80, ITGAM, IL-4, and PTPRC with significantly downregulated expression were identified. IL-10 and IL-2 were upregulated in the HK group but without a significant difference. Infiltration differences of CD8 lymphocyte T cells, CD4 lymphocyte T-activated memory cells, and dendritic resting cells were identified with gene CIBERSORT deconvolution algorithm analysis. Infiltration levels of CD4 lymphocyte T cell in the HK group were significantly higher than those of the K group in IHC verification.

Conclusion:

HBOT affected tumor gene expression and immune cell infiltration in keloids. CD4 lymphocyte T cell, especially activated memory CD4+T, might be the key regulatory immune cell, and its related gene expression needs further study.
Embedding a Behavior Change Program Designed to Reduce Sedentary Time Within a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Is Feasible in People With COPD
Authors: Wshah Adnan , Selzler Anne-Marie , Hill Kylie , Brooks Dina , Goldstein Roger
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

This study examined the feasibility of embedding a 4-wk intervention, which sought to reduce sedentary time (SED), into a pulmonary rehabilitation program (PRP) in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Methods:

This was an intervention study that comprised one face-to-face session and three follow-up visits. Primary outcomes related to feasibility and included adherence to data completion undertaken before and during the intervention period, participant satisfaction with the intervention (out of 100%), and participant achievement of intervention goals. Secondary outcomes, collected before and after the intervention period, included SED and daily step count.

Results:

Of 28 eligible individuals approached to participate, 21 (75%) were enrolled and 19 (90%) completed the program (13 females; age 69.1 ± 8.7 yr). Sixteen participants (84%) were adherent to wearing a physical activity monitor before and during the intervention period. The satisfaction score was 90 ± 12%. Over the intervention period, a total of 73 intervention goals were set, of which 41 (56%) were achieved. The effect of the intervention on SED was unclear.

Conclusions:

Embedding this intervention in a PRP appears to be feasible; however, its impact on SED should be further evaluated.
Moraxella Keratitis: A Case Series
Authors: Kenny Sarah E. , Puig Madeleine , Salinas Ricardo , Johnson Daniel A. , Kheirkhah Ahmad
Published: September 2021

Objective:

To report the ocular and systemic risk factors, clinical manifestations, and management outcomes of Moraxella keratitis.

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients with culture-proven Moraxella keratitis in South Texas between 2012 and 2018. Clinical data including demographics, ocular and systemic risk factors, clinical presentation, speciation, and treatment course were collected.

Results:

Fourteen eyes of 14 patients had culture-proven Moraxella keratitis which made up 8.1% of cases of culture-proven bacterial keratitis in the period studied. These included 10 men and 4 women with a mean age of 52.7±11.3 years. Ten patients (71.4%) had different ocular risk factors such as ocular trauma, corneal foreign body, contact lens use, preceding viral keratitis, neurotrophic cornea, and recent corneal transplant on topical steroids. Systemic risk factors included diabetes mellitus, systemic immunosuppressive therapy, cancer chemotherapy, and AIDS. There was no specific clinical manifestation. The size of stromal infiltration on initial presentation varied among the cases, with 71.4% stromal infiltrations of 4 mm or less. The patients were managed with fortified tobramycin, fortified vancomycin, and moxifloxacin eye drops. No eyes required surgical intervention during treatment for the active infection, except for one eye with pre-existing no light perception that was enucleated because of chronic pain.

Conclusions:

Moraxella keratitis is a less frequent form of bacterial keratitis that appears more prevalent in patients with previous ocular conditions. Early diagnosis of this infection and medical treatment with a conventional corneal ulcer regimen can result in good clinical outcomes without the need for a surgical intervention.
Myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery: facts, fallacies and how to approach clinically
Authors: Chew Michelle S. , Puelacher Christian
Published: September 2021

Purpose of review

Acute myocardial injury occurs commonly during perioperative care. There is still considerable confusion regarding its diagnosis and definition, and a lack of consensus on who and how to screen, exacerbated by a lack of studies addressing how to manage patients with detected myocardial injury.

Recent findings

Far from a benign biochemical anomaly, myocardial injury occurring perioperatively is largely a silent disease and is not necessarily because of ischaemia. Preoperative, postoperative, and perioperative changes in cardiac troponins (cTns) are independently associated with increased mortality and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Routine screening with cTns is required for reliable detection of myocardial injury. Measurement of changes (from preoperative to postoperative) will detect acute events as well as identify patients with chronic troponin increases.

This review aims to bring together current literature regarding myocardial injury that is detected perioperatively, identifies knowledge gaps for future research and provides suggestions for management.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Considerations Towards Dientamoeba fragilis in Children
Authors: van Kalleveen Michael W. , van Bergen Merel , Benninga Marc A. , Savelkoul Paul H.M. , Plötz Frans B. , de Meij Tim G.J.
Published: September 2021

This survey was undertaken to obtain insight in the attitude of Dutch physicians towards pathogenicity, diagnostic‐ and therapeutic approach towards Dientamoeba fragilis in children. Physicians were invited by e‐mail for a questionnaire. A total of 211 of 450 physicians (46.9%) completed the questionnaire, including 67 general practitioners (GPs) and 144 pediatricians. Of all respondents, 175 of 211 (82.9%) considered D fragilis a “potential pathogen”, when other causes of gastro‐intestinal complaints are ruled out. Only 16 of 211 (7.6%) performed diagnostic tests regularly. Diagnostic tests were performed by 162 of 211 (77%) of respondents in children with diarrhea and abdominal pain in consideration of duration of symptoms. Fecal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was diagnostic modality of preference. Eighty‐nine of 142 (62.7%) prescribed metronidazole as antibiotic of first choice. This study shows heterogeneity in clinical practice amongst Dutch physicians regarding diagnostic‐ and therapeutic approach of D fragilis in children. Different attitude towards pathogenicity and inconsistent guidelines could be causative factors.
How Much Does Serum 25(OH)D Improve by Vitamin D Supplement and Fortified Food in Children? A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Nikooyeh Bahareh , Ghodsi Delaram , Neyestani Tirang R.
Published: September 2021

Objectives:

This study was conducted to respond certain important questions regarding the efficacy of vitamin D fortification and supplementation in children using a meta‐analytical approach.

Methods:

MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched, and 2341 studies were found in a preliminary search. After screening of titles and abstracts, 31 studies were selected.

Results:

Significant raises in circulating 25‐hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations were observed in both groups that took vitamin D supplement (mean difference [MD] 28.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 22.5–34.9) and vitamin D‐fortified foods (MD 20.29, 95% CI 13.3–27.2). The meta‐regression revealed a significant association between age of participants (B −1.4, 95% CI −2.8, −0.02, P = 0.047) and dose of vitamin D (B 0.007, 95% CI 0.003, 0.01, P < 0.001), with the effect on serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The analysis showed that serum 25(OH)D concentration increases by 0.7 nmol/L for every 100 IU of vitamin D intake after adjustment for age, baseline serum 25(OH)D and latitude which is far less than the reported amount in adults.

Conclusions:

Altogether, these findings indicate that in a mass vitamin D fortification program, circulating 25(OH)D concentration response in children may be lower in children than in adults and vitamin D supplementation may still be needed in this subpopulation.
COVID-19: Preliminary Data on the Impact of Social Distancing on Loneliness and Mental Health
Authors: LEWIS KATIE
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic and its need for social distancing as a response have the potential to increase the experience of loneliness in the population, with an associated increase in symptoms of mental disorders. As the world has largely adapted to remote platforms for employment, socializing, and health service delivery, the degree to which virtual opportunities for social engagement may offset the impact of limited in-person interactions on mental health functioning is unknown. This column offers preliminary data from an ongoing experience sampling study of the prevalence, course, and impact of loneliness on mental health in a community adult sample living under social distancing requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initial findings aggregated across all experience sampling reports showed negative associations between virtual social contact (via text, phone, or videoconferencing) and feelings of loneliness, while in-person interactions appeared to have no impact on loneliness. In addition, respondents reported frequent instances of negative effects on physical and mental health, including disruptions in sleep and recurring suicidal ideation. While further analyses are needed, these findings are consistent with similar emerging reports showing increased rates of mental health concerns during periods of social distancing. Possible avenues for addressing these concerns using remote interventions are explored.
Assessing Mental Representation as an Indicator of Self and Interpersonal Functioning in Psychotherapy Patients
Authors: BORRONI SERENA , SCALABRINI ANDREA , MASCI ELISABETTA , MUCCI CLARA , DIAMOND DIANA , SOMMA ANTONELLA , FOSSATI ANDREA
Published: September 2021

The goal of this study was to test in a clinical sample the interrater reliability and convergent validity of the Differentiation-Relatedness Scale (D-RS), a measure that evaluates mental representations based on open-ended descriptions of self and significant others. The study also investigated the ability of the D-RS to predict personality disorders (PDs) from Section II of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and the dysfunctional trait domains presented in the Alternative DSM-5 Model for Personality Disorders Criterion B in Section III of the DSM-5. We also evaluated if the D-RS predicts observed Section II PDs over and above Criterion B of the Alternative DSM-5 Model for Personality Disorders. We found that the interrater reliability of the D-RS was good on the basis of the mean scores of 6 independent raters and that it showed moderate convergent validity. Results of dominance analyses indicated that the D-RS is a significant predictor of Section II borderline PD and of the overall number of DSM-5 PDs. When we considered the Section III Criterion B for PDs, the D-RS was not able to predict any of the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 domains, suggesting that the D-RS may be more related to personality functioning behind mental representations than to maladaptive personality traits. Finally, results of hierarchical regression analyses suggested that the D-RS produced a significant but modest increase in the prediction of borderline PD traits and the overall number of PDs traits even when the effect of the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 domains were controlled for.
Thromboelastography Changes of Whole Blood Compared to Blood Component Transfusion in Infant Craniosynostosis Surgery
Authors: Nelson Olivia , Wu Lezhou , Swanson Jordan W. , Hsu Grace , Lambert Michele P. , Obstfeld Amrom , Thottathil Princy , Wohler Brittany L. , Stricker Paul A. , Simpao Allan F. , Galvez Jorge A.
Published: September 2021

Surgical treatment of craniosynostosis with cranial vault reconstruction in infants is associated with significant blood loss. The optimal blood management approach is an area of active investigation. Thromboelastography (TEG) was used to examine changes in coagulation after surgical blood loss that was managed by transfusion with either whole blood or blood components. Transfusion type was determined by availability of whole blood from the blood bank.

This retrospective study examined differences in posttransfusion TEG maximum amplitude (MA), a measure of the maximum clot strength, for patients transfused with whole blood or blood components. We included all patients less than 24 months old who underwent cranial vault remodeling, received intraoperative transfusions with whole blood or blood components, and had baseline and posttransfusion TEG measured. Whole blood was requested for all patients and was preferentially used when it was available from the American Red Cross.

Of 48 eligible patients, 30 received whole blood and 18 received blood components. All patients received an intraoperative antifibrinolytic agent. The posttransfusion MA in the whole blood group was 61.8 mm (IQR 59.1, 64.1) compared to 57.9 mm (IQR 50.5, 60.9) in the blood components group (P = 0.010). There was a greater posttransfusion decrease in MA for patients transfused with blood components (median decrease of 7.7 mm [IQR −3.4, 6.3]) compared with whole blood (median decrease of 2.1 mm [IQR −9.6, 7.5] P < 0.001).

Transfusion with blood components was associated with a greater decrease in MA that was likely related to decreased postoperative fibrinogen in this group. Patients who received whole blood had higher postoperative fibrinogen levels.
Single Stage Cleft Lip and Palate Repair In Toddlers: Retrospective Review of Feasibility and Operative Experience
Authors: Abdulrauf Badr M.I. , Mater Mohammed E.
Published: September 2021

In children with cleft lip and palate (CLP), we aimed to compare a single-stage surgery group or all in one (AIO) approach with a 2-stage surgery group (2-SSG) of 18 and 12 toddlers, respectively. A retrospective review of 30 patients with CLP was conducted between 2007 and 2019. All in one procedure was performed at 12 to 24 months and 2-SSG patients had lip and primary nasal correction at 3 to 9 months, followed by palatoplasty and myringotomies at 12 to 16 months. In the AIO group, 13 (72.2%) patients had unilateral CLP, while 5 (27.8%) had bilateral CLP, which is comparable to the 2-SSG who had 8 (66.7%) unilateral CLP, 3 (25%) bilateral CLP, and 1 (8.3%) incomplete CL with submucous CP. The 2-SSG had a 30 minutes longer cumulative operative time and increased blood loss that was not statistically significant (P = 0.149 and 0.219, respectively). The AIO group had a slightly longer intubation (0.67 versus 0.33 day) and pediatric intensive care unit admission duration of 1.72 versus 1.67 days, (P = 0.427, 0.927), respectively. Total hospitalization time was significantly shorter with the AIO (8 versus 10.67 days, P = 0.016). The duration of postoperative pediatric intensive care unit and need for supplemental oxygen were higher in the AIO (38.9% versus 8.3%, P = 0.064). The “AIO” approach of lip, nasal, and palate surgery from 12 to 24 months completes early surgical care in a single operation. However, based on our review, this protocol must be selective; children with comorbidities or syndromes are advised to be exempted and operated in stages.
Guided Internal Fixation Technique for Transconjunctival Orbital Fat Transposition
Authors: Wu Lehao , Wang Tailing , You Jianjun , Zhang Chang , Wang Jiaqi
Published: September 2021

The predominant method for transconjunctival orbital fat transposition is by conducting 1 or several temporary externalized sutures. A new method that could internally and more securely fixate the fat to the periosteum remains desirable. This manuscript introduces a technique that utilizes a titanium ring to guide transconjunctival orbital fat fixation for lower blepharoplasty. With 8 to 10 mm transconjunctival incisions, the orbicularis retaining ligaments were released. An intraoperatively made ring guided the sutures that was made transcutaneously and anchored on the periosteum to exit the preseptal space through the transconjunctival incision. The orbital fat graft was then fixated internally by this suture. From October 2017 to November 2019, 51 patients were included in this study. The mean patient age was 35.7 years (ranged 28–42 years). The mean operative time for the surgical procedure was 52 minutes. No major complications were noticed in any patients. There was 1 case in which the eye bag relapses at fifth week postoperatively, but was corrected by the same approach. At the average follow-up period of 12.1 months, all patients presented significant improvement of the lower eyelid cosmesis. Forty-four patients rated the aesthetic outcomes as “Very Satisfied,” the other 7 rated “Satisfied” in a self-assessment questionnaire.

Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale echoed similar outcomes. This guided internal fixation technique is technically practical when properly executed. It offers a new method for facilitating orbital fat transposition in lower blepharoplasty.
Validity Evidence for Procedure-specific Competence Assessment Tools in General Surgery
Authors: Ryan Joanna F. , Mador Brett , Lai Krista , Campbell Sandra , Hyakutake Momoe , Turner Simon R.
Published: September 2021

Objective:

This study aims to provide a focused and detailed assessment of the validity evidence supporting procedure-specific operative assessment tools in general surgery.

Summary of Background Data:

Competency-based assessment tools should be supported by robust validity evidence to be used reliably for evaluation of operative skills. The contemporary framework of validity relies on five sources of evidence: content, response process, internal structure, relation to other variables, and consequences.

Methods:

A systematic search of 8 databases was conducted for studies containing procedure-specific operative assessment tools in general surgery. The validity evidence supporting each tool was assessed and scored in alignment with the contemporary framework of validity. Methodological rigour of studies was assessed with the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument. The educational utility of each tool was assessed with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education framework.

Results:

There were 28 studies meeting inclusion criteria and 23 unique tools were assessed. Scores for validity evidence varied widely between tools, ranging from 3 – 14 (maximum 15). Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument scores assessing the quality of study methodology were also variable (8.5–15.5, maximum 16.5). Direct reporting of educational utility criteria was limited.

Conclusions:

This study has identified a small group of procedure-specific operative assessment tools in general surgery. Many of these tools have limited validity evidence and have not been studied sufficiently to be used reliably in high-stakes summative assessments. As general surgery transitions to competency-based training, a more robust library of operative assessment tools will be required to support resident education and evaluation.
Prognostic Significance of Negative Lymph Node Long Axis in Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Kloft Maximilian , Ruisch Jessica E. , Raghuram Gayatri , Emmerson Jake , Nankivell Matthew , Cunningham David , Allum William H. , Langley Ruth E. , Grabsch Heike I.
Published: September 2021

Objective:

To analyze the relationship between negative lymph node (LNneg) size as a possible surrogate marker of the host antitumor immune response and overall survival (OS) in esophageal cancer (EC) patients.

Background:

Lymph node (LN) status is a well-established prognostic factor in EC patients. An increased number of LNnegs is related to better survival in EC. Follicular hyperplasia in LNneg is associated with better survival in cancer-bearing mice and might explain increased LN size.

Methods:

The long axis of 304 LNnegs was measured in hematoxylin-eosin stained sections from resection specimens of 367 OE02 trial patients (188 treated with surgery alone (S), 179 with neoadjuvant chemotherapy plus surgery (C+S)) as a surrogate of LN size. The relationship between LNneg size, LNneg microarchitecture, clinicopathological variables, and OS was analyzed.

Results:

Large LNneg size was related to lower pN category (P = 0.01) and lower frequency of lymphatic invasion (P = 0.02) in S patients only. Irrespective of treatment, (y)pN0 patients with large LNneg had the best OS. (y)pN1 patients had the poorest OS irrespective of LNneg size (P < 0.001). Large LNneg contained less lymphocytes (P = 0.02) and had a higher germinal centers/lymphocyte ratio (P = 0.05).

Conclusions:

This is the first study to investigate LNneg size in EC patients randomized to neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery or surgery alone. Our pilot study suggests that LNneg size is a surrogate marker of the host antitumor immune response and a potentially clinically useful new prognostic biomarker for (y)pN0 EC patients. Future studies need to confirm our results and explore underlying biological mechanisms.
Self-Harm and Suicide Attempts Preceding and Following Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Salagre Estela , Rohde Christopher , Østergaard Søren D.
Published: September 2021

Objective

The beneficial effect of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on suicidality has been documented in clinical trials, whereas naturalistic studies on the topic are scarce and restricted to individuals with mood disorders. Here, based on population-based data from Danish registers, we aimed to investigate the course of self-harm and suicide attempts preceding and following ECT across 4 major mental disorders. This was done to examine whether data from the real-world clinical setting are compatible with the positive results from clinical trials.

Methods

We identified all patients diagnosed with unipolar depression (n = 8843), bipolar disorder (n = 2713), psychotic disorder (n = 2692), or personality disorder (n = 2085) who received ECT for the first time in the period from 2008 to 2019, as well as age-, sex-, diagnosis-, illness duration–, and admission-matched comparison groups not receiving ECT. A mirror-image model was used to examine whether the number of incidents of self-harm/suicide attempts changed following ECT (paired t test).

Results

There were substantial and statistically significant reductions in the number of incidents of self-harm/suicide attempts when comparing the month leading up to and the month following initiation of ECT for all diagnostic groups (unipolar depression: reduction, 83% [P < 0.001]; bipolar disorder: reduction, 72% [P < 0.001]; psychotic disorder: reduction, 82% [P < 0.001]; personality disorder: reduction, 83% [P < 0.001]). The analog results for the comparison groups not receiving ECT suggested that these reductions in self-harm/suicide attempts were partly mediated by a protective effect of admission.

Conclusions

Data from the real-world clinical setting are compatible with results from clinical trials with regard to the protective effect of ECT on suicidality.
Adjuvant Priming Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Treatment-Resistant Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Vidya K.L. , Rao Prasad G. , Goyal Nishant
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is used as a therapeutic option for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in both clinical and research settings. There has been no consensus with regard to target area and other parameters, although 1-Hz rTMS over the supplementary motor area (SMA) is found to be promising. Priming stimulation, which involves high-frequency followed by low-frequency rTMS, has been shown to enhance neural response to low-frequency rTMS. Hence, this study was conducted to investigate the effect of adjunctive priming rTMS over the SMA in treatment-resistant OCD.

Methods

Thirty patients with OCD who were symptomatic after an adequate selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor trial were randomized into 2 groups: one group receiving active priming stimulation (6-Hz rTMS at 80% resting motor threshold) followed by 1-Hz rTMS (priming rTMS group) and the other receiving sham stimulation followed by 1-Hz rTMS (rTMS-only group). Both groups received 10 sessions of such interventions for 2 weeks. Both the rater and patients were blind to the treatment allocation. Assessments were done using the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety, and Clinical Global Impression—Improvement scale at baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks.

Results

Both groups showed a significant improvement in all domains of psychopathology over time. The priming rTMS group was better than the rTMS-only group in reducing the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale compulsion score (P < 0.023) as well as scores of the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, and Clinical Global Impression—Improvement scale. None developed any adverse effects requiring medical attention.

Conclusions

Priming rTMS over the SMA is safe and has favorable effects in OCD. It seems to have a predominant effect on the reduction of compulsions, presumably rectifying the impaired response inhibition in patients with OCD.
Evolutionary ecology of climacteric and non-climacteric fruits
Authors: Fukano Yuya , Tachiki Yuuya
Published: September 2021

Fleshy fruits can be divided between climacteric (CL, showing a typical rise in respiration and ethylene production with ripening after harvest) and non-climacteric (NC, showing no rise). However, despite the importance of the CL/NC traits in horticulture and the fruit industry, the evolutionary significance of the distinction remains untested. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that NC fruits, which ripen only on the plant, are adapted to tree dispersers (feeding in the tree), and CL fruits, which ripen after falling from the plant, are adapted to ground dispersers. A literature review of 276 reports of 80 edible fruits found a strong correlation between CL/NC traits and the type of seed disperser: fruits dispersed by tree dispersers are more likely to be NC, and those dispersed by ground dispersers are more likely to be CL. NC fruits are more likely to have red–black skin and smaller seeds (preferred by birds), and CL fruits to have green–brownish skin and larger seeds (preferred by large mammals). These results suggest that the CL/NC traits have an important but overlooked seed dispersal function, and CL fruits may have an adaptive advantage in reducing ineffective frugivory by tree dispersers by falling before ripening.
Modelling the functional roles of synaptic and extra-synaptic γ-aminobutyric acid receptor dynamics in circadian timekeeping
Authors: Sueviriyapan Natthapong , Granados-Fuentes Daniel , Simon Tatiana , Herzog Erik D. , Henson Michael A.
Published: September 2021

In the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a primary neurotransmitter. GABA can signal through two types of GABAAreceptor subunits, often referred to as synaptic GABAA(gamma subunit) and extra-synaptic GABAA(delta subunit). To test the functional roles of these distinct GABAAin regulating circadian rhythms, we developed a multicellular SCN model where we could separately compare the effects of manipulating GABA neurotransmitter or receptor dynamics. Our model predicted that blocking GABA signalling modestly increased synchrony among circadian cells, consistent with published SCN pharmacology. Conversely, the model predicted that lowering GABAAreceptor density reduced firing rate, circadian cell fraction, amplitude and synchrony among individual neurons. When we tested these predictions, we found that the knockdown of delta GABAAreduced the amplitude and synchrony of clock gene expression among cells in SCN explants. The model further predicted that increasing gamma GABAAdensities could enhance synchrony, as opposed to increasing delta GABAAdensities. Overall, our model reveals how blocking GABAAreceptors can modestly increase synchrony, while increasing the relative density of gamma over delta subunits can dramatically increase synchrony. We hypothesize that increased gamma GABAAdensity in the winter could underlie the tighter phase relationships among SCN cells.
The evolutionary landscape of SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.519 and its clinical impact in Mexico City
Authors: Cedro-Tanda Alberto , Gómez-Romero Laura , Alcaraz Nicolás , de Anda-Jauregui Guillermo , Peñaloza Fernando , Moreno Bernardo , Escobar-Arrazola Marco A. , Ramirez-Vega Oscar A. , Munguia-Garza Paulina , Garcia-Cardenes Francisco , Cisneros-Villanueva Mireya , Moreno-Camacho Jose L. , Rodriguez-Gallegos Jorge , Luna-Ruiz Esparza Marco A. , Fernández Rojas Miguel A. , Mendoza-Vargas Alfredo , Reyes-Grajeda Juan Pablo , Campos-Romero Abraham , Angulo Ofelia , Ruiz Rosaura , Sheinbaum Claudia , Sifuentes-Osornio José , Kershenobich David , Hidalgo-Miranda Alfredo , Herrera Luis A.
Published: September 2021

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is one of the most concerning health problems around the globe. We report the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.519 in Mexico City. This variant represented up to 90% of sequenced cases in February 2021. It is characterized by three amino acid changes in the spike protein: T478K, P681H, and T732A. We report the effective reproduction number of B.1.1.519 and present evidence of its geographical origin based on phylogenetic analysis. We also studied its evolution via haplotype analysis and identified the most recurrent haplotypes. Finally, we studied the clinical impact of B.1.1.519: patients infected with variant B.1.1.519 showed a highly significant adjusted odds ratio (aOR) increase of 1.85 over non-B.1.1.519 patients for developing a severe/critical outcome (P = 0.000296, 1.33–2.6 95% CI) and a 2.35-fold increase for hospitalization (P = 0.005, 1.32–4.34 95% CI). The continuous monitoring of this and other variants will be required to control the ongoing pandemic as it evolves.
Longitudinal Analysis of the Determinants of Life Expectancy and Healthy Life Expectancy: A Causal Approach
Authors: Aanegola Rohan , Nakamura-Sakai Shinpei , Kumar Navin
Published: September 2021

Understanding the determinants of health is essential to designing effective strategies to advance economic growth, reduce disease and disability, and enhance quality of life. We undertake a comprehensive outlook on public health by incorporating three metrics - life expectancy (LE), healthy life expectancy (HLE), and the discrepancy between the two. We investigate the effects of various health and socio-economic factors on these metrics and employ causal machine learning and statistical methods such as propensity score matching, X-learners, and causal forests to calculate treatment effects. An increase in basic water services and public health expenditure significantly increased average LE, whereas high HIV prevalence rates and poverty rates reduced average LE. High GNI per capita and moderate BMI increased HLE while high HIV prevalence rates decreased HLE. High public health expenditure and high GNI per capita expand the gap between HLE and LE, whereas high HIV prevalence rates and moderate BMI diminish this gap. Results suggest that policymakers should utilize governmental resources to improve public health infrastructure rather than provide fiscal incentives to encourage private healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, more emphasis should be put on increasing educational levels of the general public by increasing educational expenditure and making educational institutions, public and private, more accountable.
Genome of a Giant (Trevally): Caranx ignobilis
Authors: Pickett Brandon D. , Glass Jessica R. , Ridge Perry G. , Kauwe John S. K.
Published: September 2021

Caranx ignobilis, commonly known as the kingfish or giant trevally, is a large, reef-associated apex predator. It is a prized sportfish, targeted heavily throughout its tropical and subtropical range in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, and it has drawn significant interest in aquaculture due to an unusual tolerance for freshwater. In this study, we present a high-quality nuclear genome assembly of a C. ignobilis individual from Hawaiian waters, which have recently been shown to host a genetically distinct population. The assembly has a contig NG50 of 7.3Mbp and scaffold NG50 of 46.3Mbp. Twenty-five of the 203 scaffolds contain 90% of the genome. We also present the raw Pacific Biosciences continuous long-reads from which the assembly was created. A Hi-C dataset (Dovetail Genomics Omni-C) and Illumina-based RNA-seq from eight tissues are also presented; the latter of which can be particularly useful for annotation and studies of freshwater tolerance. Overall, this genome assembly and supporting data is a valuable tool for ecological and comparative genomics studies of kingfish and other carangoid fishes.
Diurnal changes in the efficiency of information transmission at a sensory synapse
Authors: Moya-Díaz José , James Ben , Esposti Federico , Johnston Jamie , Lagnado Leon
Published: September 2021

Neuromodulators adapt sensory circuits to changes in the external world or the animal’s internal state and synapses are key control sites for such plasticity. Less clear is how neuromodulation alters the amount of information transmitted through the circuit. We investigated this question in the context of the diurnal regulation of visual processing in the retina of zebrafish, focusing on ribbon synapses of bipolar cells. We demonstrate that contrast-sensitivity peaks in the afternoon accompanied by a four-fold increase in the average Shannon information transmitted from an active zone. This increase reflects higher synaptic gain, lower spontaneous “noise” and reduced variability of evoked responses. Simultaneously, an increase in the probability of multivesicular events with larger information content increases the efficiency of transmission (bits per vesicle) by factors of 1.5-2.7. This study demonstrates the multiplicity of mechanisms by which a neuromodulator can adjust the synaptic transfer of sensory information.
Comprehensive comparative genomics analysis for the emerging human pathogen Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE): A case study and Pan-subspecies genomic analysis
Authors: Saeb Amr T. M. , Tayeb Hamsa T.
Published: September 2021

Background

Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) is the causal agent of various diseases that include wound infection, erysipelas, cellulitis, life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis, and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. It is capable of infecting both humans and animals. In this investigation, we present a comprehensive genomic analysis for the SDSE strain SCDR1 that belongs to Lancefield group G, emm type (stG6) and (MLST) sequence type (ST44) that is the first time to be documented in Saudi Arabia and the middle east. Besides, we present the most comprehensive comparative genomics analysis for the emerging human pathogen SDSE.

Methodology

We utilized next-generation sequencing techniques (NGS), bioinformatics, phylogenetic analysis, and comparative pathogenomics to characterize SCDR1 and all publicly available SDES genomes.

Results

We found that SCDR1 consisted of a circular genome of 2179136 bp. Comparative analyses among bacterial genomes indicated that SCDR1 was most closely related to AC-2713 and GGS_124. Genome annotation of SCDR-1 strain showed that it contains many genes with homology to known virulence factors, including genes involved in cellular invasion, Antiphagocytosis, immune evasion, invasion of skin and soft tissue, host mortality and tissue damage, toxins, pore-forming proteins, cytotoxins, beta-hemolysis agents. Two CRISPR arrays were identified in SCDR1 that are consist of 35 CRISPR repeats and 33 CRISPR spacers. Two CAS systems were observed in the SCDR-1 genome, namely, CAS-TypeIIA and CAS-TypeIC. SDSE core Resistome is consisting of 22 genes, including folA, gyrA, gyrB, and FabK. SDSE core Virulome consisting of 38 genes including, fba, fbp54, gidA, and lsp.

Conclusion

Our study confirmed that the SDSE strains possess different characteristics in producing virulence factors for pathogenicity to humans and based on its genome sequence and close relationship with GAS. Our study shed light on the proposed pathogenic mechanisms of SDSE and may form the basis of molecular epidemiological research on these highly virulent bacteria.
How Dickkopf molecules and Wnt/β-catenin interplay to self-organise the Hydra body axis
Authors: Mercker Moritz , Kazarnikov Alexey , Tursch Anja , Özbek Suat , Holstein Thomas , Marciniak-Czochra Anna
Published: September 2021

The antagonising interplay between canonical Wnt signalling and Dickkopf (Dkk) molecules has been identified in various processes involved in tissue organisation, such as stem cell differentiation and body-axis formation. Disruption of the interplay between these molecules is related to several diseases in humans. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms of the β-catenin/Wnt-Dkk interplay leading to robust formation of the body axis remain elusive. Although the β-catenin/Wnt signalling system has been shown in the pre-bilaterian model organism Hydra to interact with two ancestral Dkks (HyDkk1/2/4-A and -C) to self-organise and regenerate the body axis, the observed Dkk expression patterns do not match any current pattern-formation theory, such as the famous activator-inhibitor model. To explore the function of Dkk in Hydra patterning process, we propose a new mathematical model which accounts for the two Dkks in interplay with HyWnt3/β-catenin. Using a systematic numerical study, we demonstrate that the chosen set of interactions is sufficient to explain de novo body-axis gradient formation in Hydra. The presented mutual inhibition model goes beyond the classical activator-inhibitor model and shows that a molecular mechanism based on mutual inhibition may replace the local activation/long-range inhibition loop. The new model is validated using a range of perturbation experiments. It resolves several contradictions between previous models and experimental data, and provides an explanation for the interplay between injury response and pattern formation.
BNT162b2-Elicited Neutralization of Delta Plus, Lambda, and Other Variants
Authors: Liu Jianying , Liu Yang , Xia Hongjie , Zou Jing , Weaver Scott C. , Swanson Kena A. , Cai Hui , Cutler Mark , Cooper David , Muik Alexander , Jansen Kathrin U. , Sahin Ugur , Xie Xuping , Dormitzer Philip R. , Shi Pei-Yong
Published: September 2021

BNT162b2-elicited human sera are known to neutralize the currently dominant Delta SARS-CoV-2 variant. Here, we report the ability of 20 human sera, drawn 2 or 4 weeks after two doses of BNT162b2, to neutralize USA-WA1/2020 SARS-CoV-2 bearing variant spikes from Delta plus (Delta-AY.1, Delta-AY.2), Delta-Δ144 (Delta with the Y144 deletion of the Alpha variant), Lambda, and B. 1.1.519 lineage viruses. Geometric mean plaque reduction neutralization titers against Delta-AY.1, Delta-AY.2, and Delta-Δ144 viruses are slightly lower than against USA-WA1/2020, but all sera neutralize the variant viruses to titers of ≥80.

Neutralization titers against Lambda and B. 1.1.519 variants and against USA-WA1/2020 are equivalent. The susceptibility of Delta plus, Lambda, and other variants to neutralization by the sera indicates that antigenic change has not led to virus escape from vaccine-elicited neutralizing antibodies and supports ongoing mass immunization with BNT162b2 to control the variants and to minimize the emergence of new variants.
Effect of ORF7 of SARS-CoV-2 on the chemotaxis of monocytes and neutrophils in vitro
Authors: Wang Gang , Guan Jun , Li Guojun , Wu Fengtian , Yang Qin , Huang Chunhong , Shao Junwei , Xu Lichen , Guo Zixuan , Zhou Qihui , Zhu Haihong , Chen Zhi
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is currently the most significant public health threats in worldwide. Patients with severe COVID-19 usually have pneumonia concomitant with local inflammation and sometimes a cytokine storm. Specific components of the SARS-CoV-2 virus trigger lung inflammation, and recruitment of immune cells to the lungs exacerbates this process, although much remains unknown about the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Our study of lung type II pneumocyte cells (A549) demonstrated that ORF7, an open reading frame (ORF) in the genome of SARS-CoV-2, induced the production of CCL2, a chemokine that promotes the chemotaxis of monocytes, and decreased the expression of IL-8, a chemokine that recruits neutrophils. A549 cells also had an increased level of IL-6. The results of our chemotaxis transwell assay suggested that ORF7 augmented monocyte infiltration and reduced the number of neutrophils. We conclude that the ORF7 of SARS-CoV-2 may have specific effects on the immunological changes in tissues after infection. These results suggest that the functions of other ORFs of SARS-CoV-2 should also be comprehensively examined.
Synthesis and structure determination of racemic (Δ/Λ)-tris(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) trichloride hemi(hexaaquasodium chloride)
Authors: Conrad-Marut Linden H. , Reinheimer Eric W. , Johnson Adam R.
Published: September 2021

The synthesis and crystal structure of the title racemic compound, [Co(C2H8N2)3]Cl3.{[Na(H2O)6]Cl}0.5, are reported. The trivalent cobalt atom, which resides on a crystallographic threefold axis, is chelated by a single ethylene diamine (en) ligand and yields the tris-chelate [Co(en)3]3+ cation with distorted octahedral geometry after the application of crystal symmetry. The sodium cation (site symmetry \overline{3}), has a single water molecule bound to it in the asymmetric unit and yields a distorted, octahedrally coordinated hydrated [Na(H2O)6]+ cation after the application of symmetry. One of the chloride ions lies on a general position and the other has \overline{3} site symmetry. An extensive array of C—H...O, N—H...Cl and O—H...Cl hydrogen bonds exists between the ethylene diamine ligands, the water molecules of hydration, and the anions present, thereby furnishing solid-state stability.
Relationships between the “Big Five” personality types and consumer attitudes in Indian students toward augmented reality advertising
Authors: Srivastava Abhishek , Dasgupta Shilpee A. , Ray Arghya , Bala Pradip Kumar , Chakraborty Shibashish
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of the “Big Five” personality traits (extraversion, openness, agreeableness, conscientiousness and neuroticism) on the adoption of augmented reality (AR), with a particular focus on the role AR may play in interactive marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative-based approach was followed by a questionnaire survey, which was completed by 230 respondents comprising graduate and postgraduate students, using structural equation modelling.

Findings

While the trait of openness was positively associated with the perceived ease of use of AR, the usefulness of AR and subjective norms, the trait of neuroticism was negatively associated with the perceived ease of use of AR. Extraversion was positively associated with subjective norms. Perceived ease of use of AR, the usefulness of AR and subjective norms were positively associated with attitudes toward AR.

Practical implications

The data gathered will add a valuable contribution to the currently limited data available on empirical consumer behaviour research, particularly in relation to the adoption of AR for interactive marketing.

Originality/value

The findings of this study will benefit academics working on the adoption of technology in rapidly developing fields such as automation and artificial intelligence; the study also contributes to the emerging interdisciplinary domain of psychology, information systems, marketing and human behaviour.
Media coverage and financial restatements: evidence from China
Authors: Alkebsee Radwan Hussien , Habib Ahsan
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Drawing on the premise that the media play a vital corporate governance role, this paper aims to investigate the association between media coverage and financial report restatements.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of Chinese listed companies over the period 2011–2015, the authors use ordinary least squares regression as well as a number of additional tests. To mitigate the endogeneity issue, the authors use a two-stage Heckman test and a propensity score matching model.

Findings

The authors document a negative and significant association between media coverage and restatements, suggesting that firms with high media coverage engage less in financial restatements. The authors further explore the moderating effects of internal control quality and state ownership on the association between media coverage and restatements. Regression results reveal that the governance role of the media is more pronounced for state-owned enterprises than for private firms. However, no significant difference in the disciplining effect of media coverage is found for firms with high, versus low, internal control quality.

Originality/value

The role of the media in corporate governance and financial reporting quality has been well documented. In emerging economies, such a role has been overlooked. As a result, the purpose of this study is to fill that void. Furthermore, prior research ignores the impacts of state ownership and the internal control environment on the media's governance role.