bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(PM-04) EFFECTS OF VIBRATORY STIMULATION AND VACUUM ERECTION DEVICE IN THE TREATMENT OF MALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTIONS: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Marcio Cardoso E , da Costa Merino D , Fernandes Torres T , Castiglione M , Pavione Rodrigues Pereira R , Tanaka C
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, retrograde ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, anejaculation, painful ejaculation, anorgasmia, hematospermia and low sexual desire are the main male sexual dysfunctions. The 2022 European Association of Urology recommends the use of vibratory stimulation and vacuum erection devices in the treatment of male sexual dysfunctions (mainly anejaculation and erectile dysfunction), both as adjuvant therapy and as combination therapy with other interventions. The objective of the study was to verify if there is scientific evidence for the use of vibrating stimulation and the vacuum erection device in male sexual dysfunctions that allow clinical indication in an effective and safe manner.

Methods

Literature review by searching for scientific articles in the Pubmed database of the National Library of Medicine published in the last 10 years, including randomized clinical trials, meta-analysis studies, pilot studies, systematic literature reviews and guidelines.

Results

As a result 1,230 articles on male sexual dysfunction. After screening, 16 studies were selected that are part of this research, seven articles on vibratory stimulation and nine on vacuum erection devices.

Conclusion

This review suggests that vacuum erection and vibratory stimulation devices, as they offer low risk, minimal side effects, are accessible and cost-effective compared to other approaches, are promising devices for the non-invasive treatment of male dysfunctions. sex. Other studies with greater methodological rigor are needed.

Descriptors

Vibratory stimulation; sexual dysfunction; penis vibrator; male sexual dysfunction; vacuum erectile; vacuum erection; Peyronie's disease

Financing

No conflict.
(PM-08) PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN PATIENTS WITH PROSTATE CANCER: THE IMPACT ON QUALITY OF LIFE AND SEXUAL LIFE
Authors: Rodrigues E , Naccarato A , Silva I M , Sabbag D , Denardi F , Ferreira U , Matheus W E
Published: March 2024

Objective

Evaluate the impact of physical activity on Quality of Life and Sexual Function in patients with prostate cancer who underwent treatment – surgical or radiotherapy, or who are under active surveillance.

Material and Methods

Data is been collected through an initial interview (Identification, Anamnesis, Health Anamnesis, Degree of Satisfaction with Life and Sexuality, Affective-Emotional Assessment and Treatment Data), FACT-P, IIFE-5 short form, Physical Activity Worksheet, measurement of Heart Rate (HR) and Blood Pressure (BP) to be filled during the month. Data will be collected in 2 initial sessions, after receiving the diagnose or during treatment or active surveillance. The patients will receive physical activity guidance each week, for three months. During this period, individuals will be monitored weekly when a partial evaluation of the results obtained will be carried out.

At the end of the 12 sessions, patients will be interviewed again, using same instruments, to assess possible changes in quality of life.

Partial results

At the moment we are almost completing the 12 sessions, with 14 filled. The mean age is 65.5% years old, 90% had radical prostatectomy, 55% has minor income. The patients reported an improvement in their quality of life, in the execution of their recurrent activities, less body aches, a feeling of well being after the walk and during the day, and more disposition for the experienced activities. Confidence in achieving and maintaining an erection, changed from low to moderate.

Conclusions

It is expected to establish the relationship between the improvement of quality of life and physical activity in an educational group. After analyzing the results, it is expected to have information that will contribute to the treatment of men with prostate cancer. The results will be presented at National and/or International Congresses, and subsequently published in Scientific Journals.

Financing

No conflict.
(PM-14) THE USE OF VIBRATIONS IN FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTIONS: NARRATIVE REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
Authors: Maia Fontes L I , da Costa Merino D , Fernandes Torres T , Castiglione M , Pavione Rodrigues Pereira R , Tanaka C
Published: March 2024

Introduction

There are several aspects that involve the sexual function of an individual, such as biological, psychological and interpersonal factors. Based on this, symptoms of female sexual dysfunction are classified according to the response phase of the affected sexual cycle. In physiotherapy there are some resources that are used for the treatment of sexual dysfunctions, including vibration, which is used with the aim of improving muscle condition and vascularization, but the real effects of applying this technique in the treatment are not known. of sexual dysfunctions. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify evidence on the benefits of vibration in female sexual dysfunctions.

Methodology

The PubMed and VHL databases were searched according to a search strategy defined by PICOS: ((((sexuality) OR (sexual dysfunction)) OR (pelvic floor disorders)) OR (women's health)) AND (vibration), which included systematic reviews, meta-analyses and clinical trials from 2012 to 2022 that approached vibration as a resource investigated or used in female sexual dysfunctions. Other study designs were excluded, as well as those that did not use vibration as a resource or that were aimed solely at the male audience.

Results

A total of 89 articles were found, of which 83 were excluded for not meeting the inclusion criteria; six articles were selected to compose this review. Among the selected articles, three brought vibration as a purely evaluative resource, and three articles also looked for evidence on the use of vibration as a treatment for female sexual dysfunctions.

Conclusion

No studies were found in which vibration has been used as a therapeutic resource in female sexual dysfunctions, which opens precedents for future studies in this regard.

Financing

No conflict.
(PM-16) DILATORY THERAPY IN WOMEN UNDERGOING RADIOTHERAPY FOR THE TREATMENT OF PELVIC CANCER
Authors: Caiano dos Santos B , Montagnini Mendonça L , Cordeiro Gomes V , Estevão A , Nunes Silva Bahia C , Castiglione M
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Pelvic radiotherapy is a treatment for gynecological and anorectal cancer, with side effects including vaginal fibrosis, dryness, adhesions and strictures. Rehabilitation aids may prevent or minimize post-radiotherapy vaginal changes and subsequent decline in sexual functioning, which could reduce distress.

Objective

To present the effects of dilator therapy on vaginal changes in women with pelvic cancer undergoing radiotherapy treatment.

Methods

This is an integrative review of the literature and surveys were carried out in the electronic databases PubMed and PEDro. The search terms used were: “Vaginal Dilator”, “Pelvic Neoplasm”, “Brachytherapy” and “Radiotherapy”. Only randomized clinical trials and observational studies were considered. Data collection was carried out between March and May 2022.

Results

21 studies were found, seven of which met the established criteria and agreed with the proposed objective. Subsequently, a manual search was carried out, where two more studies were found. Finally, this review was composed of nine studies. It was observed that the vaginal dilator after radiotherapy is beneficial, reducing the frequency and severity of vaginal stenosis, thus improving the quality of sexual life of women. However, it is important to highlight that psychosocial education programs are also important and cause positive effects in this population. Strategies related to promoting treatment adherence remain necessary due to taboos related to the use of dilators.

Conclusion

Dilator therapy is effective in reducing vaginal stenosis and improving the quality of sexual life of women undergoing radiotherapy for pelvic cancer.

Financing

No conflict.
(PM-20) INFLUENCE OF RELIGION ON FEMALE SEXUALITY: REVIEW OF NARRATIVE LITERATURE
Authors: Jardelina Muniz Augusto Silva F , da Costa Merino D , Fernandes Torres T , Castiglione M , Pavione Rodrigues Pereira R , Tanaka C
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Sexuality influences thoughts, feelings, actions and interactions and therefore also affects our physical and mental health. It is a complex part of life, shaped by many factors, including religious ones. Religiosity can guide the sexual and loving experience, directly influencing the individual's sexual understanding, such as the use or not of condoms during sexual practice. Therefore, the present study aims to identify in the literature the influence of religion on female sexuality.

Methodology

A narrative review of the literature was carried out in the PubMed database. Articles published in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Arabic from January 2017 to December 2022 were included, such as: clinical trials, meta-analysis and systematic review, which exclusively addressed female sexuality and religion. Studies that addressed male sexuality were excluded.

Results

74 articles were found, of which 28 were selected for reading according to the summary and 10 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Most of the studies were on the Muslim, Islamic and Christian religions. Important points related to religious beliefs were identified, such as non-use of contraceptive methods, lack of knowledge about reproductive health, religious conflicts, marital status, virginity, sexual submission and menstrual taboos that negatively influence the quality of sexual life of religious women. . Studies with greater methodological rigor are needed to address this important issue.

Conclusion

This review showed that religion can have an adverse impact on the sexual health and quality of life of Islamic, Christian and Muslim women. Highlighting the need to conduct research in this area to understand and address this relationship.

Financing

No conflict.
(PM-22) THE UTILIZATION OF SOCIAL MEDIA AS A PSYCHOPEDAGOGICAL TOOL IN SEXUAL HEALTH WITH A FOCUS ON PARAPHILIAS
Authors: Braga C , Vasconcelos dos Santos L A , Sampaio M , Bremberger LdL , Medeiros J V , Torres de Sá Urtiga Rêgo K F , Sousa Luz J H , Becher G E
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Social media provides a favorable space for health education. Among the available digital resources, WhatsApp message groups can serve as a source of information and a platform for discussions. Recent studies on sexual education through social media are more concentrated on interventions targeting STI prevention, sexual abuse mitigation, and contraception education. However, there are no reports of utilization of WhatsApp for education about paraphilias. The Brazilian Association for Studies in Medicine and Sexual Health (ABEMSS) utilizes WhatsApp as a tool to promote discussions of this often neglected topic. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to substantiate the validity of this resource.

Objective

To review the literature and to share the experience of using WhatsApp to facilitate discussions and knowledge sharing about paraphilias.

Methods

Narrative Review on the Use of Social Media in Sexual Education and an experience report on the Utilization of WhatsApp as an Educational Instrument for the study of paraphilias.

Results

The WhatsApp paraphilia study group was created in 2020 and comprises 222 healthcare professionals (54% urologists, 9% endocrinologists, 8% psychiatrists, 18% psychologists, 7% physiotherapists). Its activities primarily occur in a scheduled manner, but they can also arise spontaneously. They include discussions of clinical cases, scientific studies and lay media. In the first half of 2023, there were 12 scheduled activities and 8 spontaneous ones. To mitigate the risk of stigmatizing comments, department members act as moderators.

Conclusions

WhatsApp seems to be a valuable tool for disseminating information about neglected health topics, such as paraphilias. The use of specific groups with scheduled and spontaneous activities promotes the provision of scientific information while promotes a attitude towards the topic.

Keywords

Paraphilias; Paraphilic disorders; Medical education; Social media

Financing

No conflict.
(PM-24) TRANSLATION AND CULTURAL ADAPTATION OF THE KAROLINSKA INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE SCALE INTO BRAZILIAN PORTUGUESE: A METHODOLOGICAL STUDY
Authors: O  Ferreira B , W  Gil M L , Talib L , Jokinen J , T  Scanavino M
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Interpersonal violence is a global concern with significant implications for mental health and mortality. The Karolinska Institute in Sweden developed the Karolinska Interpersonal Violence Scale (KIVS), a semi-structured interview assessing interpersonal violence experiences as victims or aggressors across childhood and adulthood.

Objective

Our aim was to translate and culturally adapt the KIVS for use in the Brazilian population. Methods: The translation process involved ten stages based on The International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) guidelines. Back-translation was performed by a clinical psychologist unfamiliar with the original scale. The English versions were cross compared by the original instrument author. The consensus version underwent comprehension evaluation by eight participants, comprising four healthcare professionals and four patients from the AISEP - Excessive Sexual Drive and Prevention of Negative Outcomes Related with Sexual Behavior at Instituto de Psiquiatria of Hospital das Clínicas of São Paulo. A 5-point Likert scale assessed participant comprehension, with 80% agreement indicating successful equivalence. Sentences were revised until this consensus was achieved. The finalized translation, incorporating contextual revisions, underwent syntactic and spelling review.

Results

After application to eight participants (4 women and 4 men), 7 rated with the highest comprehension score (5.0), and 1 with 4.9. A final report documented the entire KIVS translation and validation process.

Conclusion

The translation and cultural adaptation of the KIVS into Brazilian Portuguese were successful. Minor adjustments were made to enhance comprehension without compromising meaning. This adaptation provides a valuable tool for assessing interpersonal violence in the Brazilian context, with implications for research and clinical practice.

Financing

FAPESP.
Health problems and exposure to infectious risks in returning humanitarian aid workers
Authors: Benabdelmoumen Ghania , Van der Pluijm Rob W , Taieb Fabien , Jidar Kaoutar , Kuhmel Lucie , Lucet Cora , Buffet Pierre , Hochedez Patrick , Itani Oula , Consigny Paul-Henri
Published: March 2024

Background

Humanitarian aid workers are exposed to deployment-related health threats. Identifying subgroups at a higher risk of infection in this diverse population could help optimize prevention.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective study based on anonymized data of humanitarian aid workers that visited our clinic for a post-deployment visit between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2021. We conducted a descriptive analysis of basic demographic data, self-reported risk exposure and health problems encountered during deployment extracted from a standard questionnaire.

Results

The questionnaire was administered to 1238 aid workers during 1529 post-deployment medical consultations. The median age was 37.2 years (IQR 31.7–44.3), and 718/1529 (47.0%) were female aid workers. The median duration of deployment was 6 months (IQR 3–12 months). Most deployments (1321/1529 (86.4%)) were for a medical organization and in Sub-Saharan Africa (73.2%). The most common risk exposures were contact with freshwater in schistosomiasis endemic regions (187/1308 (14.3%)), unprotected sexual contact with a person other than a regular partner (138/1529 (9.0%)), suspected rabies exposure (56/1529 (3.7%)) and accidental exposure to blood (44/1529 (2.9%)). Gastrointestinal problems (487/1529 (31.9%)), malaria (237/1529 (15.5%)) and respiratory tract infections (94/1529 (6,2%)) were the most encountered health problems. Fifteen volunteers (1%) were hospitalized during deployment and 19 (1.2%) repatriated due to health problems. Adherence to malaria chemoprophylaxis was poor, only taken according to the prescription in 355 out of 1225 (29.0%) of aid workers for whom prophylaxis was indicated.

Conclusion

Humanitarian aid workers deployed abroad encounter significant rates of health problems and report a high level of risk exposure during their deployment, with the risks being greatest among younger people, those deployed to rural areas, and those working for non-medical organizations. These findings help guide future pre-deployment consultations, to increase awareness and reduce risk behaviour during deployment, as well as focus on adherence to medical advice such as malaria chemoprophylaxis.
Rapid Life-Saving Response to Anti–PD-1 in a Solid Organ Transplant Recipient With Metastatic Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review
Authors: Antonelli John P. , Quach Myiah , Mahajan Aparna , Pleva Jennifer , Ma Vincent T.
Published: March 2024

Anti–programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) therapy is considered effective in the treatment of metastatic or locally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma but the use of these agents in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) is often taken with caution. While anti-tumor effects without graft rejection have been reported, studies have shown high rates of fatal graft rejection with immune checkpoint therapy. In this case report, we present an SOTR patient with life-threatening, acute hypoxic respiratory failure due to rapidly progressive metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with lung and pleural involvement. Modification of their immunosuppressive regimen and treatment with front-line anti–PD-1 inhibitor, pembrolizumab, led to rapid clinical response with near complete resolution of metastatic pulmonary disease and no long-term evidence of graft rejection. Our case report shows that front-line treatment with PD-1 inhibitors can be safely administered in SOTR patients with rapid metastatic disease control.
Cardiometabolic Risk Profiles of Adolescents Living With Perinatally Acquired HIV in South Africa
Authors: Greybe Leonore , Barnabas Shaun , Cotton Mark , Rose Penelope , Rabie Helena , Frigati Lisa
Published: March 2024

Background:

We assessed the Pathological Determinants of Atherosclerosis in Youth (PDAY) score and other potential cardiovascular disease risk factors in adolescents previously enrolled in the Children with HIV Early antiRetroviral (CHER) and International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials Network P1060 clinical trials.

Methods:

Coronary artery and abdominal aorta (AA) PDAY scores were calculated for 56 participants over 15 years of age using a weighted combination of dyslipidemia, cigarette smoking, hypertension, obesity, and hyperglycemia. A PDAY score ≥1 is associated with early atherosclerosis.

Results:

Fifty-six participants were enrolled: 46 (82.1%) on a single-tablet regimen of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, lamivudine and dolutegravir. Median time on antiretroviral therapy was 15.8 [interquartile range (IQR): 15.8–16.5] years and median time on dolutegravir was 14 (IQR: 10.0–19.0) months. Fasting median high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was 20.1 mg/dL (IQR: 16.0–23.7) and median non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was 38.3 mg/dL (IQR: 30.8–44.3). The median systolic blood pressure was 115 mm Hg (IQR: 107–121). Median body mass index was 21.3 kg/m2 (IQR: 19.5–24.7) and median fasted serum glucose was 82.0 mg/dL (IQR: 75.7–87.3). Only 1 (2%) participant smoked cigarettes, but 5 (9%) smoked hookah pipe and 26 (46.4%) smoked cannabis. Thirty-one (55.4%) participants had coronary artery PDAY scores ≥1 and 33 (58.9%) had AA PDAY scores ≥1. Age was associated with an AA PDAY score ≥1 (P = 0.02) with a 0.06 increase in AA PDAY score for every month of age (95% confidence interval: 0.01–0.12, P = 0.01).

Conclusions:

Adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV appear at risk for cardiovascular disease. Specific tools for monitoring this risk are needed to institute appropriate preventive interventions.
An update of palliative care in lung transplantation with a focus on symptoms, quality of life and functional outcomes
Authors: Rozenberg Dmitry , Andrawes Rogih Riad , Wentlandt Kirsten
Published: March 2024

Purpose of review

Palliative care (PC) in lung transplantation is increasingly acknowledged for its important role in addressing symptoms, enhancing functionality, and facilitating advance care planning for patients, families, and caregivers. The present review provides an update in PC management in lung transplantation.

Recent findings

Research confirms the effectiveness of PC for patients with advanced lung disease who are undergoing transplantation, showing improvements in symptoms and reduced healthcare utilization. Assessment tools and patient-reported outcome measures for PC are commonly used in lung transplant candidates, revealing discrepancies between symptom severity and objective measures such as exercise capacity. The use of opioids to manage dyspnea and cough in the pretransplant period is deemed safe and does not heighten risks posttransplantation. However, the integration of PC support in managing symptoms and chronic allograft dysfunction in the posttransplant period has not been as well described.

Palliative care support should be provided in the pretransplant and select peri-operative and posttransplant periods to help support patient quality of life, symptoms, communication and daily function.
The Nature of Combat Stress Development During Military Operations and Psychotherapy in Extreme Situations
Authors: Ovsyannikova Yanina , Pokhilko Diana , Krasnokutskyi Mykola , Kerdyvar Valentyn , Kreshchuk Kateryna
Published: March 2024

The purpose of the research work is the theoretical and empirical analysis of the study of the nature of combat stress in military personnel and the assessment of psychotherapeutic methods of providing psychological assistance in extreme situations. The authors used the following methods to achieve this goal: method of analysis and synthesis, hermeneutic method, testing method, comparative method, and generalization method. The results of the research work have revealed the meaning of traumatic stress, psychological trauma, and combat mental trauma, and explained the concept of combat stress and the dynamics of its growth. The findings identified the factors of posttraumatic stress syndrome and its prevalence, tracked down the dynamics of psychoemotional disorders, and revealed the importance of military psychological selection and determination of combat readiness. The authors established the main tasks of a staff psychologist in working with military personnel, conducted an empirical study of the nature of combat stress in the military, observed main psychotherapeutic tools for the prevention of negative mental states in combat conditions, and investigated self-regulation techniques of emotional, physical, and mental health. The practical significance of the scientific work lies in the modern coverage of the phenomenon of combat stress and the classification of effective psychotherapeutic methods that will ensure the sustainable psychological preparation of the soldiers for extreme situations.
Evaluation of Laparoscopic Colorectal Resection Among Elderly Individuals With Colorectal Malignancy: A Single-center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yanru , Chen Tufeng , Yang Xiaofeng , Li Yiquan , Lei Purun
Published: March 2024

Objective:

The purpose of the current study was to statistically clarify the precise risk age in elderly patients undergoing colorectal surgery and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic colorectal resection in these patients.

Methods:

Patients’ clinical variables were extracted from the database of the Gastrointestinal Surgery Centre, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, from 2015 to 2019. Logistic regression was conducted to identify independent risk factors of postoperative complications and ORs for each age. Curves of odds ratios (ORs) and CIs for each age were fitted by using a locally weighted scatterplot smoother, and a structural breakpoint was determined by the Chow test to identify a precise cutoff risk age for elderly patients. Comparison and subgroup analysis were conducted between surgical approach groups using the Student t test and χ2 analysis.

Results:

Locally weighted scatterplot smoother OR analysis manifested that patients aged 69 years old or older suffered a higher possibility of postoperative complications and should be defined as high-risk age. Comparison according to the high-risk age revealed laparoscopic colorectal surgery is better than laparotomic surgery for elderly individuals in terms of hospital stay (9.46 ± 5.96 vs 15.01 ± 6.34, P < 0.05), the incidence of intensive care unit transfer (4 vs 20, P < 0.05), and incidence of surgical site infection (15 vs 20, P < 0.05). Patients who underwent laparotomic surgery had a greater prevalence of Clavien-Dindo II/III complications (P < 0.05). These findings remained stable even after propensity matching. Furthermore, such superiority was proved especially significant for patients who underwent left-side colorectal resection. In addition, overall survival was improved in the laparoscopic surgery group, whereas no differences were observed in disease-free survival.

Conclusion:

In our study population, age 69 or older was a cutoff point age suggests a higher possibility of postoperative morbidity after colorectal surgery. Laparoscopic colorectal resection should be regarded as a superior therapeutic choice for these elderly individuals, especially for left-side colorectal surgeries.
Factors influencing nurses’ use of sedation interruptions in a critical care unit: a descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Graham Nicole D. , Graham Ian D. , Vanderspank-Wright Brandi , Nadalin Penno Letitia , Fergusson Dean A. , Squires Janet E.
Published: March 2024

Introduction and aims:

This study examined critical care nurses’, physicians’, and allied health professionals’ perceptions of factors that support, inhibit, or limit the use of sedation interruption (SI) to improve the use of this integral component of care for mechanically ventilated patients.

Method:

We conducted a theory-based, descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with critical care registered nurses, respiratory therapists, a pharmacist, and a physician in a hospital in Ontario, Canada. The interview guide and analysis were informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework and transcripts were analyzed using content analysis.

Results:

We identified 9 facilitators and 20 barriers to SI use by nurses. Facilitators included the innovation (importance of protocols) and potential adopters (comfort with the skill). The barriers were the potential adopters’ (nurses) knowledge gaps regarding the performance and goal of SI and the practice environment (lack of time, availability of extra staff, and lack of multidisciplinary rounds).

Conclusion:

This study identified facilitators and barriers to SI for mechanically ventilated patients. Implementation efforts must address barriers associated with nurses, the environment, and contextual factors. A team-based approach is essential, as the absence of interprofessional rounds is a significant barrier to the appropriate use or non-use of SI. Future research can focus on the indications, contraindications, and goals of SI, emphasizing a shared appreciation for these factors across disciplines. Nursing capacity to manage a patient waking up from sedation is necessary for point-of-care adherence; future research should focus on the best ways to do so. Implementation study designs should use theory and evidence-based determinants of SI to bridge the evidence-to-practice gap.

Spanish abstract:

http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A178
Revised taxonomy of eastern North Pacific killer whales (
Orcinus orca
): Bigg’s and resident ecotypes deserve species status
Authors: Morin Phillip A. , McCarthy Morgan L. , Fung Charissa W. , Durban John W. , Parsons Kim M. , Perrin William F. , Taylor Barbara L. , Jefferson Thomas A. , Archer Frederick I.
Published: March 2024

Killer whales (
Orcinus orca
) are currently recognized as a single ecologically and morphologically diverse, globally distributed species. Multiple morphotypes or ecotypes have been described, often associated with feeding specialization, and several studies have suggested taxonomic revision to include multiple subspecies or species in the genus. We review the ecological, morphological and genetic data for the well-studied ‘resident’ and Bigg’s (aka ‘transient’) ecotypes in the eastern North Pacific and use quantitative taxonomic guidelines and standards to determine whether the taxonomic status of these killer whale ecotypes should be revised. Our review and new analyses indicate that species-level status is justified in both cases, and we conclude that eastern North Pacific Bigg’s killer whales should be recognized as
Orcinus rectipinnus
(Cope in Scammon, 1869) and resident killer whales should be recognized as
Orcinus ater
(Cope in Scammon, 1869).
Metagenomic sequencing sheds light on microbes putatively associated with pneumonia-related fatalities of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
Authors: Prentice Melanie B. , Gilbertson Marie L. J. , Storm Daniel J. , Turner Wendy C. , Walsh Daniel P. , Pinkerton Marie E. , Kamath Pauline L.
Published: March 2024

With emerging infectious disease outbreaks in human, domestic and wild animal populations on the rise, improvements in pathogen characterization and surveillance are paramount for the protection of human and animal health, as well as the conservation of ecologically and economically important wildlife. Genomics offers a range of suitable tools to meet these goals, with metagenomic sequencing facilitating the characterization of whole microbial communities associated with emerging and endemic disease outbreaks. Here, we use metagenomic sequencing in a case-control study to identify microbes in lung tissue associated with newly observed pneumonia-related fatalities in 34 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Wisconsin, USA. We identified 20 bacterial species that occurred in more than a single individual. Of these, only Clostridium novyi was found to substantially differ (in number of detections) between case and control sample groups; however, this difference was not statistically significant. We also detected several bacterial species associated with pneumonia and/or other diseases in ruminants (Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae, Trueperella pyogenes, Pasteurella multocida, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Fusobacterium necrophorum); however, these species did not substantially differ between case and control sample groups. On average, we detected a larger number of bacterial species in case samples than controls, supporting the potential role of polymicrobial infections in this system. Importantly, we did not detect DNA of viruses or fungi, suggesting that they are not significantly associated with pneumonia in this system. Together, these results highlight the utility of metagenomic sequencing for identifying disease-associated microbes. This preliminary list of microbes will help inform future research on pneumonia-associated fatalities of white-tailed deer.
Integrative methylome and transcriptome analysis reveals epigenetic regulation of Fusobacterium nucleatum in laryngeal cancer
Authors: Yuan Xiaohui , Lau Hui-Ching , Huang Huiying , Hsueh Chi-Yao , Gong Hongli , Zhou Liang
Published: March 2024

The aetiological mechanisms of Fusobacterium nucleatum in laryngeal cancer remain unclear. This study aimed to reveal the epigenetic signature induced by F. nucleatum in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). Combined analysis of methylome and transcriptome data was performed to address the functional role of F. nucleatum in laryngeal cancer. Twenty-nine differentially expressed methylation-driven genes were identified by mapping the methylation levels of significant differential methylation sites to the expression levels of related genes. The combined analysis revealed that F. nucleatum promoted Janus kinase 3 (JAK3) gene expression in LSCC. Further validation found decreased methylation and elevated expression of JAK3 in the F. nucleatum-treated LSCC cell group; F. nucleatum abundance and JAK3 gene expression had a positive correlation in tumour tissues. This analysis provides a novel understanding of the impact of F. nucleatum in the methylome and transcriptome of laryngeal cancer. Identification of these epigenetic regulatory mechanisms opens up new avenues for mechanistic studies to explore novel therapeutic strategies.
Machine learning-guided reconstruction of cytoskeleton network from Live-cell AFM Images
Authors: Ju Hanqiu , Skibbe Henrik , Fukui Masaya , Yoshimura Shige H. , Naoki Honda
Published: March 2024

How actin filaments (F-actins) are dynamically reorganized in motile cells at the level of individual filaments is an open question. To this end, we developed a high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) to live-imagine intracellular dynamics of the individual F-actins. However, noise and low resolution made it difficult to fully recognize individual F-actins in the HS-AFM images. To tackle this problem, we developed a new machine learning method that quantitatively recognizes individual F-actins. The method estimates F-actin orientation from the image while improving the resolution. We found that F-actins were oriented at ±35° toward the membrane in the lamellipodia, which is consistent with Arp2/3 complex-induced branching. Furthermore, in the cell cortex our results showed non-random orientation at four specific angles, suggesting a new mechanism for F-actin organization demonstrating the potential of our newly developed method to fundamentally improve our understanding of the structural dynamics of F-actin networks.
34-parameter full spectrum immunophenotyping panel of human regulatory and effector lymphocytes
Authors: Georgieva Zoya , Coppard Valerie , Yang Jennie HM , Grenfell Richard , Jones Joanne
Published: March 2024

This 34-marker sentinel, intracellular, full-spectrum flow cytometry panel profiles regulatory and effector T, B and NK lymphocytes in human cryopreserved peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The panel focuses on cell trafficking, activation, exhaustion and proliferation, and permits easy customisation in two positions to accommodate other targets of the user’s interest. By combining breadth and depth of phenotyping, this panel is designed to maximise the information obtained from limited cell material and therefore will be particularly useful in mechanistic studies of immunomodulatory drugs for autoimmune disease, cancer and transplantation, where multiple immune populations may be affected.
Mx1-labeled pulp progenitor cells are main contributors to postnatal odontoblasts and pulp cells in murine molars
Authors: Yang Dongwook , Jeong YoungJae , Ortinau Laura , Solidum Jea , Park Dongsu
Published: March 2024

Regeneration of dentin and odontoblasts from dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) is essential for permanent tooth maintenance. However, thein vivoidentity and role of endogenous DPSCs in reparative dentinogenesis are elusive. Here, using pulp single-cell analysis before and after molar eruption, we revealed that endogenous DPSCs are enriched inCxcl12-GFP+coronal papilla-like cells withMx1-Cre labeling. TheseMx1+Cxcl12-GFP+cells are long-term repopulating cells that contribute to the majority of pulp cells and new odontoblasts after eruption. Upon molar injury,Mx1+DPSCs localize into the injury site and differentiate into new odontoblasts, formingscleraxis-GFP+andosteocalcin-GFP+dentinal tubules and reparative dentin. Single-cell and FACS analysis showed thatMx1+Cxcl12-GFP+DPSCs are the most primitive cells with stem cell marker expression and odontoblast differentiation. Taken together, our findings demonstrate thatMx1labels postnatal DSPCs, which are the main source of pulp cells and new odontoblasts with reparative dentinogenesisin vivo.
Hierarchal single-cell lineage tracing reveals differential fate commitment of CD8 T-cell clones in response to acute infection
Authors: Abdullah Leena , Emiliani Francesco E. , Vaidya Chinmay M. , Stuart Hannah , Kolling Fred W. , Ackerman Margaret E. , Song Li , McKenna Aaron , Huang Yina H.
Published: March 2024

Generating balanced populations of CD8 effector and memory T cells is necessary for immediate and durable immunity to infections and cancer. Yet, a definitive understanding of CD8 differentiation remains unclear. We used CARLIN, a processive lineage recording mouse model with single-cell RNA-seq and TCR-seq to track endogenous antigen-specific CD8 T cells during acute viral infection. We identified a diverse repertoire of expanded T-cell clones represented by seven transcriptional states. TCR enrichment analysis revealed differential memory- or effector-fate biases within clonal populations. Shared Vb segments and amino acid motifs were found within biased categories despite high TCR diversity. Using single-cell CARLIN barcode-seq we tracked multi-generational clones and found that unlike unbiased or memory-biased clones, which stably retain their fate profiles, effector-biased clones could adopt memory- or effector-bias within subclones. Collectively, our study demonstrates that a heterogenous T-cell repertoire specific for a shared antigen is composed of clones with distinct TCR-intrinsic fate-biases.
Ribosome biogenesis factor AtRRB1 confers pollen heat stress tolerance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jin Chunlian , Schindfessel Cédric , Sun Limin , Keçeli Burcu Nur , Vanneste Steffen , Geelen Danny
Published: March 2024

The plant male reproductive system is very sensitive to high temperature stress leading to a reduction in fertility. Damage caused by heat stress is restored by the activation of transcription and the synthesis of chaperones that regulate the heat stress response. Here we report that AtRRB1 is a homolog of the yeast ribosome chaperone protein Rrb1p.AtRRB1is an essential gene and a T-DNA insertion in the coding region impairs male and female gametogenesis. The heterozygousrrb1-1mutant shows decreased expression of AtRRB1 and increased transcription of the 60S ribosome proteins RPL3B and RPL4, in line with a chaperone role of AtRRB1 in ribosome biogenesis. Embryo sac development across ovules of a single pistil occurs uncoordinated and about half of the ovules abort. Half ofrrb1-1pollen is substantially smaller and produce shorter pollen tubes than WT pollen. In contrast to the Col-0 pollen, smaller pollen is overly sensitivity to high temperature (24h at 32°C) treatment, specifically during the early bicellular microspore development stage. Heat stressedrrb1-1bicellular microspores accumulated excessively rough endoplasmic reticulum stacks, suggesting that loss of AtRRB1 activity causes an arrest in ER associated protein biosynthesis. These findings support a critical requirement for ribosome biogenesis and protein synthesis in bicellular microspores to recover from high temperature stress.
A 6-minute Limb Function Assessment for Therapeutic Testing in Experimental Peripheral Artery Disease Models
Authors: Palzkill Victoria R. , Tan Jianna , Tice Abigail L. , Ferriera Leonardo F. , Ryan Terence E.
Published: March 2024

Background

The translation of promising therapies from pre-clinical models of hindlimb ischemia (HLI) to patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) has been inadequate. While this failure is multifactorial, primary outcome measures in preclinical HLI models and clinical trials involving patients with PAD are not aligned well. For example, laser Doppler perfusion recovery measured under resting conditions is the most used outcome in HLI studies, whereas clinical trials involving patients with PAD primarily assess walking performance. Here, we sought to develop a 6-min limb function test for preclinical HLI models that assess muscular performance and hemodynamics congruently.

Methods

We developed anin situ6-min limb function test that involves repeated isotonic (shortening) contractions performed against a submaximal load. Continuous measurement of muscle blood flow was performed using laser Doppler flowmetry. Quantification of muscle power, work, and perfusion are obtained across the test. To assess the efficacy of this test, we performed HLI via femoral artery ligation on several mouse strains: C57BL6J, BALBc/J, and MCK-PGC1α (muscle-specific overexpression of PGC1α). Additional experiments were performed using an exercise intervention (voluntary wheel running) following HLI.

Results

The 6-min limb function test was successful at detecting differences in limb function of C57BL6/J and BALBc/J mice subjected to HLI with effect sizes superior to laser Doppler perfusion recovery. C57BL6/J mice randomized to exercise therapy following HLI had smaller decline in muscle power, greater hyperemia, and performed more work across the 6-min limb function test compared to non-exercise controls with HLI. Mice with muscle-specific overexpression of PGC1α had no differences in perfusion recovery in resting conditions, but exhibited greater capillary density, increased muscle mass and absolute force levels, and performed more work across the 6-min limb function test compared to their wildtype littermates without the transgene.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate the efficacy of the 6-min limb function test to detect differences in the response to HLI across several interventions including where traditional perfusion recovery, capillary density, and muscle strength measures were unable to detect therapeutic differences.
An inhibitory acetylcholine receptor gates context dependent mechanosensory processing inC. elegans
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Sharma Anuj K. , Leifer Andrew M.
Published: March 2024

An animal’s current behavior influences its response to sensory stimuli, but the molecular and circuit-level mechanisms of this context-dependent decision-making is not well understood. In the nematodeC. elegans, inhibitory feedback from turning associated neurons alter downstream mechanosensory processing to gate the animal’s response to stimuli depending on whether the animal is turning or moving forward [1–3]. Until now, the specific neurons and receptors that mediate this inhibitory feedback were not known. We use genetic manipulations, single-cell rescue experiments and high-throughput closed-loop optogenetic perturbations during behavior to reveal the specific neuron and receptor responsible for receiving inhibition and altering sensorimotor processing. An inhibitory acetylcholine gated chloride channel comprised oflgc-47andacc-1expressed in neuron RIM receives inhibitory signals from turning neurons and performs the gating that disrupts the worm’s mechanosensory evoked reversal response.
Temporal constraints on enhancer usage shape the regulation of limb gene transcription
Authors: Rouco Raquel , Rauseo Antonella , Sapin Guillaume , Bompadre Olimpia , Darbellay Fabrice , Andrey Guillaume
Published: March 2024

Repertoires of transcriptional enhancers orchestrate gene expression during embryonic development, thereby shaping the forms and functions of organs. Within these repertoires individual enhancers display spatially distinct or overlapping activities that collectively build up the expression domain of cognate genes. However, the temporal specificity of these enhancers - how their activities change over developmental time to dynamically influence gene expression - remains uncharacterized. Here, we observed that temporally restricted enhancer repertoires are embedded at numerous loci associated with mouse limb development. To monitor how such enhancer repertoires govern gene transcriptionin vivoacross extensive developmental periods, we introduce the regulatory trajectory framework. This paradigm conceptually involves transcriptional initiation, marking the beginning of gene expression, followed by its maintenance over time, and ultimately decommissioning, leading to gene repression. To track and sort cells undergoing these distinct phases, we devised a transgenic recorder approach at theShox2model locus. Through this method, we discovered that cells maintainingShox2transcription in early and late limb development relies on distinct, temporally restricted enhancer repertoires. We demonstrate that eliminating early-or late-acting enhancers only transiently affectsShox2expression indicating that these enhancer repertoires function independently. Additionally, we found that changes in the 3D topology of the locus associate with enhancer activities and that a rapid loss of enhancer-promoter contacts occurs during decommissioning. Finally, we show that the decommissioning of theShox2locus can be actively driven byHoxd13, a gene which expression is known to antagonizeShox2. Overall, our work uncovers the dependency of developmental genes on enhancers with temporally restricted activities to generate complex expression patterns over time and shed light on the dynamics of enhancer-promoter interactions.
Bacterial-tyramine-induced renal-gut countercurrent flow regulates gut immune response by promoting ROS accumulation and gut peristalsis in the flyBactrocera dorsalis
Authors: Liu Yanning , Luo Rengang , Lemaitre Bruno , Zhang Hongyu , Li Xiaoxue
Published: March 2024

Insects increase gut peristalsis to purge ingested pathogens. They also rely on the Duox-ROS system to mount an efficient gut response. However, how these two host defense mechanisms are coordinated to clear pathogens remained unclear. We found that gut peristalsis is the major force for bacteria elimination, while Duox is necessary as a signaling molecule to activate gut peristalsis in a Tephritidae fruit flyBactrocera dorsalis. We found an insect-conserved renal-gut countercurrent flow formed upon recognizing bacteria-derived tyramine counteracts the gut peristalsis forced defecation and drives the accumulation of ROS. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the renal-gut countercurrent flow maintains proper microbiota composition. Our work provided a novel renal-gut interaction that ensures an efficient gut-immune response.
Extracellular vesicles promote proliferation in an animal model of regeneration
Authors: Avalos Priscilla N. , Wong Lily L. , Forsthoefel David J.
Published: March 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are secreted nanoparticles composed of a lipid bilayer that carry lipid, protein, and nucleic acid cargo between cells as a mode of intercellular communication. Although EVs can promote tissue repair in mammals, their roles in animals with greater regenerative capacity are not well understood. Planarian flatworms are capable of whole body regeneration due to pluripotent somatic stem cells called neoblasts that proliferate in response to injury. Here, using transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and protein content examination, we showed that EVs enriched from the tissues of the planarianSchmidtea mediterraneahad similar morphology and size as other eukaryotic EVs, and that these EVs carried orthologs of the conserved EV biogenesis regulators ALIX and TSG101. PKH67-labeled EVs were taken up more quickly by S/G2 neoblasts than G1 neoblasts/early progeny and differentiated cells. When injected into living planarians, EVs from regenerating tissue fragments enhanced upregulation of neoblast-associated transcripts. In addition, EV injection increased the number ofF-ara-EdU-labelled cells by 49% as compared to buffer injection only. Our findings demonstrate that regenerating planarians produce EVs that promote stem cell proliferation, and suggest the planarian as an amenablein vivomodel for the study of EV function during regeneration.