bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Neutralizing Antibodies as a Correlate of Instantaneous Risk of Hospitalized Dengue in Placebo Recipients of Dengue Vaccine Efficacy Trials
Authors: Huang Ying , Williamson Brian D , Moodie Zoe , Carpp Lindsay N , Chambonneau Laurent , DiazGranados Carlos A , Gilbert Peter B
Published: June 2021

Background

In the CYD14 (NCT01373281) and CYD15 (NCT01374516) dengue vaccine efficacy trials, month 13 neutralizing antibody (nAb) titers correlated inversely with risk of symptomatic, virologically confirmed dengue (VCD) between month 13 (1 month after final dose) and month 25. We assessed nAb titer as a correlate of instantaneous risk of hospitalized VCD (HVCD), for which participants were continually surveilled for 72 months.

Methods

Using longitudinal nAb titers from the per-protocol immunogenicity subsets, we estimated hazard ratios (HRs) of HVCD by current nAb titer value for 3 correlate/endpoint pairs: average titer across all 4 serotypes/HVCD of any serotype (HVCD-Any), serotype-specific titer/homologous HVCD, and serotype-specific titer/heterologous HVCD.

Results

Baseline-seropositive placebo recipients with higher average titer had lower instantaneous risk of HVCD-Any in 2- to 16-year-olds and in 9- to 16-year-olds (HR, 0.26 or 0.15 per 10-fold increase in average titer by 2 methods [95% confidence interval {CI}, .14–.45 and .07–.34, respectively]) pooled across both trials. Results were similar for homologous HVCD. There was evidence suggesting increased HVCD-Any risk in participants with low average titer (1:10 to 1:100) compared to seronegative participants (HR, 1.85 [95% CI, .93–3.68]).

Conclusions

Natural infection–induced nAbs were inversely associated with hospitalized dengue, upon exceeding a relatively low threshold.
Cross-resistance of the chloroquine-derivative AQ-13 with amodiaquine in Cambodian Plasmodium falciparum isolates
Authors: Nardella Flore , Mairet-Khedim Mélissa , Roesch Camille , Maher Steven P , Ke Sopheakvatey , Leang Rithea , Leroy Didier , Witkowski Benoit
Published: June 2021

Background

Expanding resistance to multiple antimalarials, including chloroquine, in South-East Asia (SEA) urges the development of new therapies. AQ-13, a chloroquine derivative, is a new drug candidate for treating malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum.

Objectives

Possible cross-resistance between the 4-aminoquinolines amodiaquine, piperaquine and AQ-13 has not been assessed. In vitro parasite growth assays were used to characterize the susceptibility of multidrug-resistant and susceptible P. falciparum patient isolates to AQ-13.

Methods

A [3H]hypoxanthine uptake assay and a 384-well high content imaging assay were used to assess efficacy of AQ-13 and desethyl-amodiaquine against 38 P. falciparum isolates.

Results

We observed a strong cross-resistance between the chloroquine derivative amodiaquine and AQ-13 in Cambodian P. falciparum isolates (Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.8621, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In light of the poor efficacy of amodiaquine that we described recently in Cambodia, and its cross resistance with AQ-13, there is a significant risk that similar clinical efficacy of AQ-13-based combinations should be anticipated in areas of amodiaquine resistance.
Health information technology to support cancer survivorship care planning: A systematic review
Authors: Mikles Sean P , Griffin Ashley C , Chung Arlene E
Published: June 2021

Objective

The study sought to conduct a systematic review to explore the functions utilized by electronic cancer survivorship care planning interventions and assess their effects on patient and provider outcomes.

Materials and Methods

Based on PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines, studies published from January 2000 to January 2020 were identified in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsychINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and the ACM Digital Library . The search combined terms for cancer, survivorship, care planning, and health information technology (HIT). Eligible studies evaluated the effects of a HIT intervention on usability, knowledge, process, or health-related outcomes. A total of 578 abstracts were reviewed, resulting in 60 manuscripts describing 40 studies. Thematic analyses were used to define meta-themes of system functions, and Fisher’s exact tests were used to examine associations between functions and outcomes.

Results

Patients were the target end users for 18 interventions, while 12 targeted providers and 10 targeted both groups. Interventions used patient-reported outcomes collection (60%), automated content generation (58%), electronic sharing (40%), persistent engagement (28%), and communication features (20%). Overall, interventions decreased the time to create survivorship care plans (SCPs) and supported care planning knowledge and abilities, but results were mixed for effects on healthcare utilization, SCP sharing, and provoking anxiety. Persistent engagement features were associated with improvements in health or quality-of-life outcomes (17 studies, P = .003).

Conclusions

Features that engaged users persistently over time were associated with better health and quality-of-life outcomes. Most systems have not capitalized on the potential of HIT to share SCPs across a care team and support care coordination.
A systematic review of automatic text summarization for biomedical literature and EHRs
Authors: Wang Mengqian , Wang Manhua , Yu Fei , Yang Yue , Walker Jennifer , Mostafa Javed
Published: June 2021

Objective

Biomedical text summarization helps biomedical information seekers avoid information overload by reducing the length of a document while preserving the contents’ essence. Our systematic review investigates the most recent biomedical text summarization researches on biomedical literature and electronic health records by analyzing their techniques, areas of application, and evaluation methods. We identify gaps and propose potential directions for future research.

Materials and Methods

This review followed the PRISMA methodology and replicated the approaches adopted by the previous systematic review published on the same topic. We searched 4 databases (PubMed, ACM Digital Library, Scopus, and Web of Science) from January 1, 2013 to April 8, 2021. Two reviewers independently screened title, abstract, and full-text for all retrieved articles. The conflicts were resolved by the third reviewer. The data extraction of the included articles was in 5 dimensions: input, purpose, output, method, and evaluation.

Results

Fifty-eight out of 7235 retrieved articles met the inclusion criteria. Thirty-nine systems used single-document biomedical research literature as their input, 17 systems were explicitly designed for clinical support, 47 systems generated extractive summaries, and 53 systems adopted hybrid methods combining computational linguistics, machine learning, and statistical approaches. As for the assessment, 51 studies conducted an intrinsic evaluation using predefined metrics.

Discussion and Conclusion

This study found that current biomedical text summarization systems have achieved good performance using hybrid methods. Studies on electronic health records summarization have been increasing compared to a previous survey. However, the majority of the works still focus on summarizing literature.
Effects of guanidinoacetic acid supplementation on nitrogen retention and methionine flux in cattle
Authors: Ardalan Mehrnaz , Miesner Matt D , Reinhardt Christopher D , Thomson Daniel U , Armendariz Cheryl K , Smith J Scott , Titgemeyer Evan C
Published: June 2021

Creatine stores high-energy phosphate bonds in muscle and is synthesized in the liver through methylation of guanidinoacetic acid (GAA). Supplementation of GAA may therefore increase methyl group requirements, and this may affect methyl group utilization. Our experiment evaluated the metabolic responses of growing cattle to postruminal supplementation of GAA, in a model where methionine (Met) was deficient, with and without Met supplementation. Seven ruminally cannulated Holstein steers (161 kg initial body weight [BW]) were limit-fed a soybean hull-based diet (2.7 kg/d dry matter) and received continuous abomasal infusions of an essential amino acid (AA) mixture devoid of Met to ensure that no AA besides Met limited animal performance. To provide energy without increasing the microbial protein supply, all steers received ruminal infusions of 200 g/d acetic acid, 200 g/d propionic acid, and 50 g/d butyric acid, as well as abomasal infusions of 300 g/d glucose. Treatments, provided abomasally, were arranged as a 2 × 3 factorial in a split-plot design, and included 0 or 6 g/d of l-Met and 0, 7.5, and 15 g/d of GAA. The experiment included six 10-d periods. Whole body Met flux was measured using continuous jugular infusion of 1-13C-l-Met and methyl-2H3-l-Met. Nitrogen retention was elevated by Met supplementation (P < 0.01). Supplementation with GAA tended to increase N retention when it was supplemented along with Met, but not when it was supplemented without Met. Supplementing GAA linearly increased plasma concentrations of GAA and creatine (P < 0.001), but treatments did not affect urinary excretion of GAA, creatine, or creatinine. Supplementation with Met decreased plasma homocysteine (P < 0.01). Supplementation of GAA tended (P = 0.10) to increase plasma homocysteine when no Met was supplemented, but not when 6 g/d Met was provided. Protein synthesis and protein degradation were both increased by GAA supplementation when no Met was supplemented, but decreased by GAA supplementation when 6 g/d Met were provided. Loss of Met through transsulfuration was increased by Met supplementation, whereas synthesis of Met from remethylation of homocysteine was decreased by Met supplementation. No differences in transmethylation, transsulfuration, or remethylation reactions were observed in response to GAA supplementation. The administration of GAA, when methyl groups are not limiting, has the potential to improve lean tissue deposition and cattle growth.
Wingless-type mouse mammary tumor virus integration site regulation of bovine theca cells
Authors: Spicer Leon J
Published: June 2021

Ovarian paracrine mediation by components of the wingless-type mouse mammary tumor virus integration site ligands (WNT1 to 11) and their receptors, frizzled family members (FZD1 to 10), has been proposed. Secreted truncated forms of FZD proteins (e.g., secreted frizzled-related protein 4 [SFRP4]) block the action of WNT ligands. Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is another WNT antagonist, and R-spondin-1 (RSPO1) is one of a group of four secreted proteins that enhance WNT/β-catenin signaling. Our hypothesis was that granulosa cells signal theca cells (TCs) via SFRP4, DKK1, RSPO1, and WNT secretion to regulate TC differentiation and proliferation. Therefore, in vitro experiments were conducted to study the effects of WNT family member 3A (WNT3A), WNT5A, RSPO1, DKK1, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7), Indian hedgehog (IHH), and fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) on bovine TC proliferation and steroidogenesis. TCs of large (8 to 20 mm) and small (3 to 6 mm) follicles were collected from bovine ovaries; TC monolayers were established in vitro and treated with various doses of recombinant human WNT3A, WNT5A, RSPO1, DKK1, IGF1, FGF9, BMP7, IHH, and/or ovine luteinizing hormone (LH) in serum-free medium for 48 h. In experiment 1, using LH-treated TC, IGF1, IHH, and WNT3A increased (P < 0.05) cell numbers and androstenedione production, whereas WNT3A and BMP7 inhibited (P < 0.05) progesterone production. In experiment 2, FGF9 blocked (P < 0.05) the WNT3A-induced increase in androstenedione production in LH plus IGF1-treated TC. In experiment 3, RSPO1 further increased (P < 0.05) LH plus IGF1-induced progesterone and androstenedione production. In experiment 4, SFRP4 and DKK1 alone had no significant effect on TC proliferation or progesterone production of large-follicle TC but both blocked the inhibitory effect of WNT5A on androstenedione production. In contrast, DKK1 alone inhibited (P < 0.05) small-follicle TC androstenedione production whereas SFRP4 was without effect. We conclude that the ovarian TC WNT system is functional in cattle, with WNT3A increasing proliferation and androstenedione production of TC.
Host Deprivation Effects on the Functional Response and Parasitism Rate ofHabrobracon hebetor(Hymenoptera: Braconidae) onEphestia elutella(Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in the Laboratory
Authors: Ou Hou-Ding , Atlihan Remzi , Wang Xiu-Qin , Li Hao-Xi , Sun Guang-Jun , Wei Lan , Wang Bo , Yu Xiao-Fei , Yang Mao-Fa
Published: June 2021

Habrobracon hebetor (Say) is an important biological control agent for lepidopteran pests of stored products. In this study, the age-specific functional response, paralysis rate, and parasitism rate of H. hebetor under different host deprivation treatments (PC: without host deprivation, used as the control, P1d: host deprivation, but the host was removed after 1 d contact, and PW: host deprivation from beginning) were evaluated at different larval densities (5, 10, 20, 40, and 80) of the Ephestia elutella (Hübner) at 28 ± 1°C, 75 ± 5% RH and 16:8 h L:D. Ages of parasitoid females used were 2, 5, 10, and 20 d old. The logistic regression results indicated that the functional response of H. hebetor females under different host deprivation treatments was type II. The longest handling time was observed in 20-d old females, while the shortest handling time and highest maximum attack rate (T/Th) were estimated at the age of 2 d in all treatments. The paralysis and parasitism rates of H. hebetor were the highest at 2, 5, and 10-d old in all treatments. The results of this study suggest that H. hebetor females up to 10-d old can be used as an efficient biological control agent against E. elutella. The data of this study can also be used to predict the efficacy of different aged H. hebetor females in controlling E. elutella populations.
Resting Behavior of Blood-Fed Females and Host Feeding Preferences of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Morphological Forms in Senegal
Authors: Diouf Babacar , Sene Ndeye Marie , Ndiaye El Hadj , Gaye Alioune , Ngom El Hadj Malick , Gueye Assiyatou , Seck Fatoumata , Diagne Cheikh Tidiane , Dia Ibrahima , Diallo Mawlouth , Diallo Diawo
Published: June 2021

Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) is the main vector of most arboviruses in tropical and subtropical urban areas. In West Africa, particularly in Senegal, domestic and wild populations have been described. Both Ae. aegypti aegypti (Aaa) and Ae. aegypti formosus (Aaf) were found in progenies of Ae. aegypti families from several localities of Senegal. However, nothing is known about their resting and trophic behavior, which are key data for vector control. To fill this gap, blood-fed mosquitoes were collected monthly indoors and outdoors with BackPack aspirators and BG-Sentinel 2 traps between July and November 2019 from four urban sites. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique was used to analyze blood-fed Aaa and Aaf specimens. Both forms were found resting in all investigated places with the highest proportions found in scrap metals (51.7% for Aaa and 44.1% for Aaf) and used tires (19.2% for Aaa and 26.1% for Aaf). Blood-fed Aaf females showed lower occupation of the indoors environment compared to Aaa. Overall, the percentages of single bloodmeals from human were 80.5% (916/1138) for Aaa and 71.1% (263/370) for Aaf. A low frequency of other domestic hosts, including bovine, ovine, and cat were detected for both forms. This study provides the first data on resting and trophic behavior of Aaa and Aaf in Senegal. Both forms showed differences in their resting behavior but fed primarily on human and highlight the risk of arboviruses transmission in urban areas.
Ileoileal intussusception in the adult patient secondary to a fibroma: An organ-preserving approach to management
Authors: Hannan Enda , Egan Aisling , Bell Alison , Murray Muireann , Martin Eoin , Byrnes Gerard
Published: June 2021

We present a rare case of adult intussusception (AI) due to a small bowel fibroma, which presented as recurrent subacute symptoms. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case managed by intraluminal excision of the causative lesion by enterotomy as opposed to bowel resection. A 34-year-old woman presented with recurrent colicky abdominal pain. Computed tomography demonstrated ileoileal intussusception, with magnetic resonance imaging revealing a 2.3-cm intraluminal lesion acting as a lead point. The patient underwent laparotomy and the intussusception was reduced. Palpation of the lesion demonstrated a pedunculated polyp without suspicious features; so the lesion was resected via enterotomy as opposed to small bowel resection. Histopathological analysis diagnosed a benign fibroma. AI is a rare but important entity, with potentially devastating consequences for delayed diagnosis. The majority of lesions causing AI are benign and may be amenable to intraluminal resection via enterotomy, thus avoiding unnecessary bowel resection.
Critical Care Education and Skills Validation Course for Internal Medicine Physicians in the Military
Authors: Sattler Lauren A , Hunninghake John C , Sjulin Tyson J , Sobieszczyk Michal J , Molina Maria M , Markelz Ana Elizabeth , Walter Robert J
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Military internist and internal medicine (IM) subspecialist physicians must be prepared to function in both traditional inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as manage critically ill patients within a deployed austere environment. As many critical care procedures are not performed on a routine basis in general IM practice, many active duty IM physicians experience skills degradation and lack confidence in performing these procedures. In order to address this perceived deficiency, the U.S. Army and Air Force Internal Medicine Education and Skills Validation Course was developed to provide essential training in critical care procedures for active duty military IM physicians and subspecialists.

Materials and Methods

Staff internist and subspecialist physicians at multiple military treatment facilities participated in a 2-day simulation-based training course in critical care procedures included in the Army Individual Critical Task Lists and the Air Force Comprehensive Medical Readiness Program. Educational content included high-yield didactic lectures, multi-disciplinary Advanced Cardiac Life Support/Advanced Trauma Life Support high-fidelity simulation scenarios, and competency training/validation in various bedside procedures, including central venous and arterial line placement, trauma-focused ultrasound exam, airway management and endotracheal intubation, chest tube thoracotomy, and mechanical ventilation, among others.

Results

A total of 87 staff IM physicians participated in the course with an average of 2–4 years of experience following completion of graduate medical education. Upon course completion, all participants successfully achieved rigorous, checklist-based, standardized validation in all the required procedures. Survey data indicated a significant improvement in overall skills confidence, with 100% of participants indicating improvement in their ability to function independently as deployed medical officers.

Conclusions

Broad implementation of this program at military hospitals would improve pre-deployment critical care procedural readiness in military IM physicians.
Retired French Military Orthopedic Surgeons’ Opinions on Their Careers
Authors: de l’Escalopier Nicolas , Barbier Olivier , Mathieu Laurent , Rongieras Frédéric , Choufani Camille
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Owing to their professional and personal experiences, retired military orthopedic surgeons’ views of their careers are a unique source of inspiration. Reflecting on their experiences allows them to grasp the positive points and those that need to be improved for future generations. The purpose of this study is to gather the opinions of retired surgeons on the career of military orthopedic surgeons.

Methods

We addressed a questionnaire to all retired French military orthopedic surgeons in the database of the Chair of Applied Surgery for the Armed Forces as of December 2020, retrained in the civilian sector. A questionnaire sent by email made it possible to collect demographic, professional, and personal data about their careers. Subjective data were evaluated using a visual analog scale from 0 to 10 or a subjective qualification scale. The main assessment criterion was the average score (out of 10) of the retired surgeons’ opinions on their careers.

Results

Fifty-two percent of retired surgeons replied (32 out of 61), with the respondents having an average age of 63 years. They had been in military retirement for an average of 14 years and had practiced for approximately 13.5 years. The majority (28 out of 32) had had a civilian activity after leaving the army. The three main reasons for leaving were the unsatisfactory working environment, the high number of deployments, and insufficient pay. Nevertheless, the respondents were satisfied with their activity, their job, and their training. The average score given for the overall opinion on their careers was 8.14/10. The three main disadvantages of the career that were noted were the quality of family life, the conditions of employment, and the financial aspects. The majority were very satisfied with the second half of their civil career.

Conclusion

Overall, the opinion of retired French military orthopedic surgeons on their careers is very good. Their point of view provides interesting elements for reflection from both a professional point of view and a personal point of view. They were very satisfied with the quality of their training, their job, and their activity. However, the quality of their personal/family life, working conditions, and the financial aspects of the career reduced this satisfaction. The results also have potential application in improving the preparation of young military orthopedic surgeons.
Recovering Coronavirus Disease Patients in the Active Duty Military Population: A Review of Current Evidence and Special Considerations for Uniformed Providers
Authors: Adams Nehkonti , Sanou Aliye Z , Lewis Paul R , Wilson Cardia M
Published: June 2021

Patients acutely infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may continue to have symptoms well beyond 2 weeks. The range of symptoms and physiological sequelae can impact medical readiness even in a relatively young and healthy cohort of service members. It is important to monitor, document, and investigate symptoms from all service members recovering from COVID-19. Military medicine must be prepared to support and manage cases of patients who are recovered from acute COVID-19 but are suffering from post-COVID-19 complications.
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome Treated With Botulinum Toxin-A Yielding 36-Month Total Symptom Relief: A Case Report
Authors: Jensen Maxwell , Lystrup Robert Maxwell , Jonas Christopher E
Published: June 2021

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) can be a debilitating condition observed in athletes, including military service members. Surgical fascial release, first described in 1956, has long been a standard treatment despite symptom recurrence in up to 45% of surgically treated military service members. A 2013 case series introduced intracompartmental Botulinum Toxin-A (BoNT-A) injections as a nonsurgical CECS treatment option, demonstrating efficacy for 15 of 16 patients. At the time of this submission, two additional case reports addressing BoNT-A injections for CECS have occurred. This case report describes a U.S. Military service member treated with ultrasound-guided BoNT-A for bilateral lower leg CECS. This patient achieved pain-free activities for 36 months with one treatment. This case, coupled with additional literature, supports consideration of BoNT-A as a potential long-term, nonsurgical alternative for CECS.
deepBlink: threshold-independent detection and localization of diffraction-limited spots
Authors: Eichenberger Bastian Th , Zhan YinXiu , Rempfler Markus , Giorgetti Luca , Chao Jeffrey A
Published: June 2021

Detection of diffraction-limited spots in single-molecule microscopy images is traditionally performed with mathematical operators designed for idealized spots. This process requires manual tuning of parameters that is time-consuming and not always reliable. We have developed deepBlink, a neural network-based method to detect and localize spots automatically. We demonstrate that deepBlink outperforms other state-of-the-art methods across six publicly available datasets containing synthetic and experimental data.
The conserved Tpk1 regulates non-homologous end joining double-strand break repair by phosphorylation of Nej1, a homolog of the human XLF
Authors: Jessulat Matthew , Amin Shahreen , Hooshyar Mohsen , Malty Ramy , Moutaoufik Mohamed Taha , Zilocchi Mara , Istace Zoe , Phanse Sadhna , Aoki Hiroyuki , Omidi Katayoun , Burnside Daniel , Samanfar Bahram , Aly Khaled A , Golshani Ashkan , Babu Mohan
Published: June 2021

The yeast cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) is a ubiquitous serine–threonine kinase, encompassing three catalytic (Tpk1–3) and one regulatory (Bcy1) subunits. Evidence suggests PKA involvement in DNA damage checkpoint response, but how DNA repair pathways are regulated by PKA subunits remains inconclusive. Here, we report that deleting the tpk1 catalytic subunit reduces non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) efficiency, whereas tpk2-3 and bcy1 deletion does not. Epistatic analyses revealed that tpk1, as well as the DNA damage checkpoint kinase (dun1) and NHEJ factor (nej1), co-function in the same pathway, and parallel to the NHEJ factor yku80. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and resection data suggest that tpk1 deletion influences repair protein recruitments and DNA resection. Further, we show that Tpk1 phosphorylation of Nej1 at S298 (a Dun1 phosphosite) is indispensable for NHEJ repair and nuclear targeting of Nej1 and its binding partner Lif1. In mammalian cells, loss of PRKACB (human homolog of Tpk1) also reduced NHEJ efficiency, and similarly, PRKACB was found to phosphorylate XLF (a Nej1 human homolog) at S263, a corresponding residue of the yeast Nej1 S298. Together, our results uncover a new and conserved mechanism for Tpk1 and PRKACB in phosphorylating Nej1 (or XLF), which is critically required for NHEJ repair.
LSH catalyzes ATP-driven exchange of histone variants macroH2A1 and macroH2A2
Authors: Ni Kai , Muegge Kathrin
Published: June 2021

LSH, a homologue of the ISWI/SNF2 family of chromatin remodelers, is required in vivo for deposition of the histone variants macroH2A1 and macroH2A2 at specific genomic locations. However, it remains unknown whether LSH is directly involved in this process or promotes other factors. Here we show that recombinant LSH interacts in vitro with macroH2A1–H2B and macroH2A2–H2B dimers, but not with H2A.Z–H2B dimers. Moreover, LSH catalyzes the transfer of macroH2A into mono-nucleosomes reconstituted with canonical core histones in an ATP dependent manner. LSH requires the ATP binding site and the replacement process is unidirectional leading to heterotypic and homotypic nucleosomes. Both variants macroH2A1 and macroH2A2 are equally well incorporated into the nucleosome. The histone exchange reaction is specific for histone variant macroH2A, since LSH is not capable to incorporate H2A.Z. These findings define a previously unknown role for LSH in chromatin remodeling and identify a novel molecular mechanism for deposition of the histone variant macroH2A.
Guanidine-II aptamer conformations and ligand binding modes through the lens of molecular simulation
Authors: Steuer Jakob , Kukharenko Oleksandra , Riedmiller Kai , Hartig Jörg S , Peter Christine
Published: June 2021

Regulation of gene expression via riboswitches is a widespread mechanism in bacteria. Here, we investigate ligand binding of a member of the guanidine sensing riboswitch family, the guanidine-II riboswitch (Gd-II). It consists of two stem–loops forming a dimer upon ligand binding. Using extensive molecular dynamics simulations we have identified conformational states corresponding to ligand-bound and unbound states in a monomeric stem–loop of Gd-II and studied the selectivity of this binding. To characterize these states and ligand-dependent conformational changes we applied a combination of dimensionality reduction, clustering, and feature selection methods. In absence of a ligand, the shape of the binding pocket alternates between the conformation observed in presence of guanidinium and a collapsed conformation, which is associated with a deformation of the dimerization interface. Furthermore, the structural features responsible for the ability to discriminate against closely related analogs of guanidine are resolved. Based on these insights, we propose a mechanism that couples ligand binding to aptamer dimerization in the Gd-II system, demonstrating the value of computational methods in the field of nucleic acids research.
The p-orbital magnetic topological states on a square lattice
Authors: You Jing-Yang , Gu Bo , Su Gang
Published: June 2021

Honeycomb or triangular lattices were extensively studied and thought to be proper platforms for realizing the quantum anomalous Hall effect (QAHE), where magnetism is usually caused by d orbitals of transition metals. Here we propose that a square lattice can host three magnetic topological states, including the fully spin-polarized nodal loop semimetal, QAHE and the topologically trivial ferromagnetic semiconductor, in terms of the symmetry and k · p model analyses that are material independent. A phase diagram is presented. We further show that the above three magnetic topological states can indeed be implemented in the two-dimensional (2D) materials ScLiCl5, LiScZ5 (Z=Cl, Br) and ScLiBr5, respectively. The ferromagnetism in these 2D materials is microscopically revealed from p electrons of halogen atoms. This present study opens a door to explore the exotic topological states as well as quantum magnetism from p-orbital electrons by means of the material-independent approach.
First Do No Harm: Moving Beyond Universal Preprocedural Testing for COVID-19
Authors: Penney Jessica , Shah Sajani , Doron Shira
Published: June 2021

Preprocedural testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was introduced early in the pandemic in an effort to protect health care workers, direct appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and improve patient outcomes. In light of our appreciation for the efficacy of PPE and the nuances associated with interpretation of polymerase chain reaction testing for SARS-CoV-2, particularly as community transmission decreases, we call for a re-evaluation of universal preprocedural testing. We propose a transition to a patient-centered approach, focusing on testing patients whose outcomes would be improved by a delayed procedure in the event of a positive test and a greater reliance on appropriate PPE rather than preprocedural test results. We recommend that a community infection rate threshold be set at which point preprocedural testing is discontinued, understanding that there is an inflection point at which testing downsides outweigh the benefits.
Do Constitutional Preferences Affect Citizens’ Representational Choices? Evidence from the Devolved UK
Authors: Convery Alan , Parker David C W , Haines Pavielle E , Johnson Sheridan , Schmidt Rachel
Published: June 2021

The creation of the Scottish Parliament provided Scottish citizens with an additional layer of politicians to represent them. But to whom do constituents turn when seeking help with a problem—councillors, MSPs or MPs? We assess how partisanship, national identity and shared competences affect public perceptions of the governing responsibilities of the UK Parliament, Scottish Parliament and local councils. We find that an individual’s national identity considerably affects perceptions of the political powers delegated to Scottish political institutions. We conclude by considering the implications for efforts to further devolve powers to the devolved legislatures in the UK.
Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation of the Trochanteric Branch of the Nervus Femoralis to Treat Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Authors: Abd-Elsayed Alaa , Cui Chen , Eckmann Maxim S
Published: June 2021

Objective

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome is a common cause of lateral hip pain. Corticosteroid injections are commonly utilized as nonsurgical interventions; however, they are not effective for all patients. This technical case report describes a method for treating greater trochanteric pain syndrome by utilizing cooled radiofrequency ablation.

Methods

The trochanteric branch of the nervus femoralis is identified as providing sensory innervation to the greater trochanter and its surrounding structures. We have identified fluoroscopic targets to block the nerve and perform cooled radiofrequency ablation. We present two patient cases which demonstrated significant pain relief of greater trochanteric pain syndrome with this treatment.

Conclusions

Cooled radiofrequency ablation of the trochanteric branch of the nervus femoralis is a potential treatment for greater trochanteric pain syndrome. This procedure provides a potential steroid-sparing interventional treatment based on reproducible fluoroscopic landmarks.
Participation in Online Platforms: Examining Variations in Intention to Participate across Citizens from Diverse Sociodemographic Groups
Authors: van den Berg Annelieke C
Published: June 2021

Theory about the participants in online citizen participation is scarce, limiting government’s ability to design online participation in such a way that many and diverse citizens are facilitated to participate. To fill this gap, this article theorizes about the factors that influence the intention of citizens from diverse sociodemographic backgrounds to participate in online platforms. The theory of planned behavior is used as theoretical lens, which posits that behavioral intentions depend on three main factors (attitude, perceived norm, and perceived behavioral control), which are in turn informed by behavioral, normative, and control beliefs. To identify relevant beliefs that impact online participation, an open-ended questionnaire was administered among 442 respondents. Fourteen behavioral and control beliefs are defined using thematic analysis. Building on these insights, the article formulates propositions about beliefs that are particularly influential for specific sociodemographic groups, in an effort to advance theory about online participation of citizens.
The notion of Kapwa amid Asian hate
Authors: Macaraan Willard Enrique R
Published: June 2021

In a letter to the editor, the author has expressed how a Chinese notion of ren is a powerful tool to negate the stigma of racial discrimination among Asian people. I would argue that within the Filipino psyche, the notion of kapwa or “shared self” can be an equivalent socio-normative ideal that can be utilized towards not just countering the ill effects of social discrimination but also fostering deep communal and group solidarity among people, regardless of race, color and ethnicity.
Unamuno on suffering and Frankl’s ‘will to meaning’: a philo-logotherapeutic advice to humankind here and beyond and the role of social relations towards mental fitness
Authors: Pacaol Niñoval F
Published: June 2021

Humankind is both historically and existentially exposed to various traumatic and disastrous experiences including the COVID-19 pandemic. The Spanish philosopher Miguel de Unamuno argued that part of humans’ consciousness is the awareness of death and suffering. He argued that the latter is an essential feature of existence. Whereas Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy stresses that humans’ primary motivational force is to find meaning in life particularly in the midst of suffering. This paper attempts to enrich Unamuno and Frankl’s contentions on persons’ nature to suffer and discover meaning. Through this construction, the author believes it could help individuals to properly embrace and adapt to the inevitable sufferings of the world and bolsters mental health like in the current pandemic.
An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Social Identity Transition in Academic Retirement
Authors: Miron Anca M , Branscombe Nyla R , Ball Thomas C , McFadden Susan H , Haslam Catherine
Published: June 2021

One of the most serious challenges inherent in retirement transition is coping with social identity changes. We investigated social identity processes and the role of social engagement during retirement transition by examining the life narratives of recently retired university faculty (14 males and 5 females) from 12 different academic areas. The interviews were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The results revealed one overarching theme—the centrality and importance of academic identity—and 3 identity transition processes with their associated goals: identity continuity, identity change, and identity conservation. Four additional themes captured the manifestations of these identity processes as they play out in the lived experiences of identity transition among these recent academic retirees: awareness of negative aspects in academia and perceived lack of fit between self and academia; social disidentification with academic identity; identity discovery and seeking old and new identities; and embracing old and new identities, including hobby-related and place-anchored activities. Maintaining and transforming parts of their former identities, as opposed to an active search for new connections, was a prevalent strategy among the participants. We discuss implications for designing strategies to better prepare recent academic retirees and academics who are considering retirement to enable a smoother identity transition and improved well-being.
Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern Active Sites of GH45 Endoglucanohydrolase from Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Guo Xiuna , Liu Ning , Zhang Yuanyuan , Chen Jinyin
Published: June 2021

A 207-amino-acid residue endoglucanohydrolase (EG1) belonging to the glycoside hydrolase 45 (GH45) from Rhizoctonia solani acts as a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP). However, the mechanism of EG1 inducing plant immunity is unclear. Here, we found that EG1 contains two domains related to its PAMP function. Transient expression showed that EG1-1, the mutation deleting 60 amino acid residues from the N-terminal, still reserved the PAMP function. Further truncation of EG1-1 obtained two truncating mutations: EG1-2, deleting seven amino acid residues from the N-terminal of EG1-1 (SPWAVND), and EG1-3, deleting five amino acid residues from the C-terminal of EG1-1 (GCSRK). Transient expression showed that the two truncating mutations EG1-2 and EG1-3 all lost the PAMP function. Site-directed mutagenesis of EG1-1 showed that the three amino acid residues (P, W, and D) in the region SPWAVND and the two amino acid residues (C and R) in the region GCSRK were involved in the PAMP function. The homology model showed that the two regions were located at a surface on the EG1 and structurally independent. These results demonstrate that there are two functional regions for the plant immune function of the EG1 released by R. solani, and the two functional regions are independent of each other.
Perinatal Outcomes of Two Screening Strategies for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Davis Esa M. , Abebe Kaleab Z. , Simhan Hyagriv N. , Catalano Patrick , Costacou Tina , Comer Diane , Orris Steven , Ly Kathleen , Decker Alison , Mendez Dara , Day Nancy , Scifres Christina M.
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate differences in short-term perinatal outcomes between the two prominent screening strategies for gestational diabetes mellitus, the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) and Carpenter-Coustan.

METHODS:

In this single-site, blinded, randomized, comparative effectiveness trial, participants received a nonfasting 50-g oral glucose tolerance test and, if less than 200 mg/dL (less than 11.1 mmol/L), were randomized to further screening with either IADPSG or Carpenter-Coustan criteria. Gestational diabetes treatment occurred per routine clinical care. The primary outcome was incidence of large-for-gestational-age (LGA) neonates. Prespecified secondary outcomes included small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, cesarean birth, and neonatal and maternal composites of adverse perinatal outcomes. Assuming a 15% incidence of LGA neonates in the Carpenter-Coustan group, 782 participants provided more than 80% power to detect a 7% absolute risk reduction with the use of IADPSG; planned recruitment was 920 for anticipated attrition.

RESULTS:

From June 2015 to February 2019, 1,016 participants were enrolled and 921 were randomized to IADPSG (n=461) or Carpenter-Coustan (n=460) groups. Gestational diabetes incidence (14.4% vs 4.5%, P<.001) and diabetes medication use (9.3% vs 2.4%; P<.001) were more common in the IADPSG group; there were no differences in LGA neonates, either overall (risk reduction 0.90, 97.5% CI 0.53–1.52) or among women without gestational diabetes (risk reduction 0.85, 97.5% CI 0.49–1.48). Those screened with IADPSG had higher rates of neonatal morbidity but fewer study-related adverse events. Rates of SGA neonates, cesarean birth, and maternal morbidity composite did not differ significantly between study groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

The IADPSG screening criteria resulted in more women diagnosed and treated for gestational diabetes than Carpenter-Coustan without reducing the incidence of LGA birth weight or maternal or neonatal morbidity.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02309138.
Association of Acute Kidney Injury Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy With Prognosis of Critically Ill Patients With and Without Cancer: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Druml Wilfred , Zajic Paul , Schellongowski Peter , Fellinger Tobias , Metnitz Barbara , Posch Martin , Metnitz Philipp G. H.
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVES:

To assess outcomes of cancer patients receiving kidney replacement therapy due to acute kidney injury in ICUs and compare these with other patient groups receiving kidney replacement therapy in ICUs.

DESIGN:

Retrospective registry analysis.

SETTING:

Prospectively collected database of 296,424 ICU patients.

PATIENTS:

Patients with and without solid cancer with acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy were identified and compared with those without acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy.

INTERVENTIONS:

Descriptive statistics were used to ascertain prevalence of acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy and solid cancer in ICU patients. Association of acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy and cancer with prognosis was assessed using logistic regression analysis. To compare the attributable mortality of acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy, 20,154 noncancer patients and 2,411 cancer patients without acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy were matched with 12,827 noncancer patients and 1,079 cancer patients with acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Thirty-five thousand three hundred fifty-six ICU patients (11.9%) had solid cancer. Acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy was present in 1,408 (4.0%) cancer patients and 13,637 (5.2%) noncancer patients. Crude ICU and hospital mortality was higher in the cancer group (646 [45.9%] vs 4,674 [34.3%], p < 0.001, and 787 [55.9%] vs 5,935 [43.5%], p < 0.001). In multivariable logistic regression analyses, odds ratio (95% CI) for hospital mortality was 1.73 (1.62–1.85) for cancer compared with no cancer 3.57 (3.32–3.83) for acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy and 1.07 (0.86–1.33) for their interaction. In the matched subcohort, attributable hospital mortality of acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy was 56.7% in noncancer patients and 48.0% in cancer patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

Occurrence rate of acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy and prognosis in ICU patients with solid cancer are comparable with other ICU patient groups. In cancer, acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy is associated with higher crude hospital mortality. However, the specific attributable mortality conveyed by acute kidney injury necessitating kidney replacement therapy is actually lower in cancer patients than in noncancer patients. Diagnosis of cancer per se does not justify withholding kidney replacement therapy.
Combating Constraints of the Functional Matrix: The Importance of Overcorrection in Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery
Authors: Do Nicholas T. K. , Buchman Steven R.
Published: June 2021

Background:

To effectively manipulate the bone, particularly in the growing patient, the craniofacial surgeon must understand the principles related to bone-based reconstruction. A theory of craniofacial growth that is both biologically accurate and clinically relevant is thus needed.

Methods:

A historical review of major findings across various disciplines (including orthopedic surgery, anatomy, embryology, orthodontics, and cell biology) will be covered, as it pertains to the concept of the functional matrix of the craniofacial skeleton.

Results:

The functional matrix dictates the interplay between the soft tissue envelope and bone grafts, thus guiding donor site choice and inset methods. The soft tissue may also warrant the use of bony hypercorrection especially in cranial vault remodeling. Control of both bone and boundaries of the soft tissue functional matrix can be achieved via distraction osteogenesis.

Conclusion:

The soft tissue functional matrix must be accounted for during craniofacial bone grafting, mobilizing osteotomies, and distraction osteogenesis if optimal aesthetic results are to be obtained using the least amount of procedures.
Machine Learning Demonstrates High Accuracy for Disease Diagnosis and Prognosis in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Mantelakis Angelos , Assael Yannis , Sorooshian Parviz , Khajuria Ankur
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Machine learning (ML) is a set of models and methods that can detect patterns in vast amounts of data and use this information to perform various kinds of decision-making under uncertain conditions. This review explores the current role of this technology in plastic surgery by outlining the applications in clinical practice, diagnostic and prognostic accuracies, and proposed future direction for clinical applications and research.

Methods:

EMBASE, MEDLINE, CENTRAL and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from 1990 to 2020. Any clinical studies (including case reports) which present the diagnostic and prognostic accuracies of machine learning models in the clinical setting of plastic surgery were included. Data collected were clinical indication, model utilised, reported accuracies, and comparison with clinical evaluation.

Results:

The database identified 1181 articles, of which 51 articles were included in this review. The clinical utility of these algorithms was to assist clinicians in diagnosis prediction (n=22), outcome prediction (n=21) and pre-operative planning (n=8). The mean accuracy is 88.80%, 86.11% and 80.28% respectively. The most commonly used models were neural networks (n=31), support vector machines (n=13), decision trees/random forests (n=10) and logistic regression (n=9).

Conclusions:

ML has demonstrated high accuracies in diagnosis and prognostication of burn patients, congenital or acquired facial deformities, and in cosmetic surgery. There are no studies comparing ML to clinician's performance. Future research can be enhanced using larger datasets or utilising data augmentation, employing novel deep learning models, and applying these to other subspecialties of plastic surgery.