bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing for relics of past strong buckling events in edge-on galaxies: simulation predictions and data from S4G
Authors: Cuomo Virginia , Debattista Victor P , Racz Sarah , Anderson Stuart Robert , Erwin Peter , Gonzalez Oscar A , Powell J W , Corsini Enrico Maria , Morelli Lorenzo , Norris Mark A
Published: October 2022

The short-lived buckling instability is responsible for the formation of at least some box/peanut (B/P) shaped bulges, which are observed in most massive, z = 0, barred galaxies. Nevertheless, it has also been suggested that B/P bulges form via the slow trapping of stars on to vertically extended resonant orbits. The key difference between these two scenarios is that when the bar buckles, symmetry about the mid-plane is broken for a period of time. We use a suite of simulations (with and without gas) to show that when the buckling is sufficiently strong, a residual mid-plane asymmetry persists for several Gyrs after the end of the buckling phase, and is visible in simulation images. On the other hand, images of B/P bulges formed through resonant trapping and/or weak buckling remain symmetric about the mid-plane. We develop two related diagnostics to identify and quantify mid-plane asymmetry in simulation images of galaxies that are within 3° of edge-on orientation, allowing us to test whether the presence of a B/P-shaped bulge can be explained by a past buckling event. We apply our diagnostics to two nearly edge-on galaxies with B/P bulges from the Spitzer Survey of Stellar Structure in Galaxies, finding no mid-plane asymmetry, implying these galaxies formed their bulges either by resonant trapping or by buckling more than ∼5 Gyr ago. We conclude that the formation of B/P bulges through strong buckling may be a rare event in the past ∼5 Gyr.
The survival of stellar discs in Fornax-like environments, from TNG50 to real galaxies
Authors: Galán-de Anta Pablo M , Sarzi M , Pillepich A , Ding Y , Zhu L , Coccato L , Corsini E M , Fahrion K , Falcón-Barroso J , Gadotti D A , Iodice E , Lyubenova M , Martín-Navarro I , McDermid R M , Pinna F , van de Ven G , de Zeeuw P T
Published: October 2022

We study the evolution of kinematically defined stellar discs in 10 Fornax-like clusters identified in the TNG50 run from the IllustrisTNG suite of cosmological simulations. We considered disc galaxies with present-day stellar mass M⋆ ≥ 3 × 108 M⊙ and follow their evolution since first entering their host cluster. Very few stellar discs survive since falling in such dense environments, ranging from 40 per cent surviving to all being disrupted. Such survival rates are consistent with what reported earlier for the two more massive, Virgo-like clusters in TNG50. In absolute terms, however, the low number of present-day disc galaxies in Fornax-like clusters could be at odds with the presence of three edge-on disc galaxies in the central regions of the actual Fornax cluster, as delineated by the Fornax3D survey. When looking at the Fornax analogues from random directions and with the same selection function of Fornax3D, the probability of finding three edge-on disc galaxies in any one Fornax-like cluster in TNG50 is rather low, albeit not impossible. We also compared the stellar-population properties near the equatorial plane derived from integral-field spectroscopy for the three edge-ons in Fornax to similar line-of-sight integrated values for present-day disc galaxies in TNG50. For one of these, the very old and metal-rich stellar population of its disc cannot be matched by any the disc galaxies in TNG50, including objects in the field. We discuss possible interpretations of these findings, while pointing to future studies on passive cluster spirals as a way to further test state-of-the-art cosmological simulations.
Galactic satellite systems in CDM, WDM and SIDM
Authors: Forouhar Moreno Victor J , Benítez-Llambay Alejandro , Cole Shaun , Frenk Carlos
Published: October 2022

We investigate the population of bright satellites ($M_{*} \ge 10^{5} \, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$) of haloes of mass comparable to that of the Milky Way in cosmological simulations in which the dark matter (DM) is either cold, warm, or self-interacting (CDM, WDM, and SIDM, respectively). The nature of the DM gives rise to differences in the abundance and structural properties of field haloes. In WDM, the main feature is a reduction in the total number of galaxies that form, reflecting a suppression of low-mass DM haloes and lower galaxy formation efficiency compared to CDM. For SIDM, the changes are structural, restricted to the central regions of haloes and dependent on the assumed self-interaction cross-section. We also consider different baryonic subgrid physics models for galaxy formation, in which supernova gas blowouts can or cannot induce the formation of a core in dwarf galaxies. Overall, the inclusion of baryons lessen the differences in the halo properties in the different DM models compared to DM-only simulations. This affects the satellite properties at infall and therefore their subsequent tidal stripping and survival rates. None the less, we find slightly less concentrated satellite radial distributions as the SIDM cross-section increases. Unfortunately, we also find that the satellite populations in simulations with baryon-induced cores in CDM and WDM can mimic the results found in SIDM, making the satellite stellar mass and maximum circular velocity functions heavily degenerate on the assumed nature of the DM and the adopted subgrid modelling. These degeneracies preclude using the brightest satellites of the Milky Way to constrain the nature of DM.
Accelerating galaxy winds during the big bang of starbursts
Authors: Hayes Matthew J
Published: October 2022

We develop a new method to infer the temporal, geometric, and energetic properties of galaxy outflows, by combining stellar spectral modelling to infer starburst ages, and absorption lines to measure velocities. If winds are accelerated with time during a starburst event, then these two measurements enable us to solve for the wind radius, similarly to length-scales and the Hubble parameter in big bang cosmology. This wind radius is the vital, but hard-to-constrain parameter in wind physics. We demonstrate the method using spectra of 87 starburst galaxies at z = 0.05 − 0.44, finding that winds accelerate throughout the starburst phase and grow to typical radii of ≈1 kpc in ≈10 Myr. Mass flow rates increase rapidly with time, and the mass-loading factor exceeds unity at about 10 Myr – while still being accelerated, the gas will likely unbind from the local potential and enrich the circumgalactic medium. We model the mechanical energy available from stellar winds and supernovae, and estimate that a negligible amount is accounted for in the cool outflow at early times. However, the energy deposition increases rapidly and ∼10 per cent of the budget is accounted for in the cool flow at 10 Myr, similar to some recent hydrodynamical simulations. We discuss how this model can be developed, especially for high-redshift galaxies.
A novel compound EPIC-0412 reverses temozolomide resistance via inhibiting DNA repair/MGMT in glioblastoma
Authors: Zhao Jixing , Yang Shixue , Cui Xiaoteng , Wang Qixue , Yang Eryan , Tong Fei , Hong Biao , Xiao Menglin , Xin Lei , Xu Can , Tan Yanli , Kang Chunsheng
Published: October 2022

Background

Temozolomide (TMZ) resistance has become an important obstacle affecting its therapeutic benefits. O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is primarily responsible for the TMZ resistance in Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients. In addition, active DNA damage repair pathways can also lead to TMZ resistance. Here, we reported a novel small-molecule inhibitor EPIC-0412 that improved the therapeutic efficacy of TMZ by  inhibiting the DNA damage repair pathway and MGMT in GBM via epigenetic pathways.

Methods

The small-molecule compound EPIC-0412 was obtained through high-throughput screening. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), chromatin isolation by RNA purification (ChIRP), and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were used to verify the effect of EPIC-0412. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) was used to elucidate the interactions of transcription factors at the MGMT promoter region. Animal experiments using a mouse model were performed to verify the efficacy of EPIC-0412 in sensitizing GBM cells to TMZ.

Results

EPIC-0412 physically interrupts the binding of HOTAIR and EZH2, leading to the upregulation of CDKN1A and BBC3, causing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in GBM cells. EPIC-0412 inhibits DNA damage response in GBM cells through the p21-E2F1 DNA damage repair axis. EPIC-0412 epigenetically silences MGMT through its interaction with the ATF3-p-p65-HADC1 axis at the MGMT promoter region. The application of EPIC-0412 restored the TMZ sensitivity in GBM in vivo experiments.

Conclusion

This study discovered a small-molecule inhibitor EPIC-0412, which enhanced the chemotherapeutic effect of TMZ by acting on the p21-E2F1 DNA damage repair axis and ATF3-p-p65-MGMT axis, providing  evidence for combining epigenetic drugs to increase the sensitization toward TMZ in GBM patients.
Epigenetic upregulation of Schlafen11 renders  WNT- and SHH-activated medulloblastomas sensitive to cisplatin
Authors: Nakata Satoshi , Murai Junko , Okada Masayasu , Takahashi Haruhiko , Findlay Tyler H , Malebranche Kristen , Parthasarathy Akhila , Miyashita Satoshi , Gabdulkhaev Ramil , Benkimoun Ilan , Druillennec Sabine , Chabi Sara , Hawkins Eleanor , Miyahara Hiroaki , Tateishi Kensuke , Yamashita Shinji , Yamada Shiori , Saito Taiki , On Jotaro , Watanabe Jun , Tsukamoto Yoshihiro , Yoshimura Junichi , Oishi Makoto , Nakano Toshimichi , Imamura Masaru , Imai Chihaya , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Takeshima Hideo , Sasaki Atsuo T , Rodriguez Fausto J , Nobusawa Sumihito , Varlet Pascale , Pouponnot Celio , Osuka Satoru , Pommier Yves , Kakita Akiyoshi , Fujii Yukihiko , Raabe Eric H , Eberhart Charles G , Natsumeda Manabu
Published: October 2022

Background

Intensive chemotherapeutic regimens with craniospinal irradiation have greatly improved survival in medulloblastoma patients. However, survival markedly differs among molecular subgroups and their biomarkers are unknown. Through unbiased screening, we found Schlafen family member 11 (SLFN11), which is known to improve response to DNA damaging agents in various cancers, to be one of the top prognostic markers in medulloblastomas. Hence, we explored the expression and functions of SLFN11 in medulloblastoma.

Methods

SLFN11 expression for each subgroup was assessed by immunohistochemistry in 98 medulloblastoma patient samples and by analyzing transcriptomic databases. We genetically or epigenetically modulated SLFN11 expression in medulloblastoma cell lines and determined cytotoxic response to the DNA damaging agents cisplatin and topoisomerase I inhibitor SN-38 in vitro and in vivo.

Results

High SLFN11 expressing cases exhibited significantly longer survival than low expressing cases. SLFN11 was highly expressed in the WNT-activated subgroup and in a proportion of the SHH-activated subgroup. While WNT activation was not a direct cause of the high expression of SLFN11, a specific hypomethylation locus on the SLFN11 promoter was significantly correlated with high SLFN11 expression. Overexpression or deletion of SLFN11 made medulloblastoma cells sensitive and resistant to cisplatin and SN-38, respectively. Pharmacological upregulation of SLFN11 by the brain-penetrant histone deacetylase-inhibitor RG2833 markedly increased sensitivity to cisplatin and SN-38 in SLFN11-negative medulloblastoma cells. Intracranial xenograft studies also showed marked sensitivity to cisplatin by SLFN11-overexpression in medulloblastoma cells.

Conclusions

High SLFN11 expression is one factor which renders favorable outcomes in WNT-activated and a subset of SHH-activated medulloblastoma possibly through enhancing response to cisplatin.
Secondhand Smoke Exposure Inside the Home Among Adults in Eight Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa: Global Adult Tobacco Survey, 2012–2018
Authors: Mbulo Lazarous , Palipudi Krishna , Smith Tenecia , Owusu Daniel , Williams Faustine , Dean Anna K , Mamudu Hadii M
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Secondhand tobacco smoke (SHS) exposure causes diseases and death in adults and children. Evidence indicates that most SHS exposures occur at home and in the workplace. Therefore, home is a major place where adults and children can be effectively protected from SHS. This study examined the magnitude of SHS exposure at home and associated factors in eight sub-Saharan African countries.

Aims and Methods

We analyzed 2012–2018 Global Adult Tobacco Survey data for Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda. We computed prevalence estimates of self-reported monthly SHS exposure at home reported as anyone smoking inside their home daily, weekly, or monthly. We calculated SHS exposure at home prevalence and applied multivariable logistic regression models to identify related factors.

Results

Overall median prevalence of SHS exposure at home was 13.8% in the eight countries; ranging from 6.6% (95% CI: 5.7%, 7.6%) in Nigeria to 21.6% (95% CI: 19.4%, 24.0%) in Senegal. In multivariable analysis across the countries, SHS exposure at home was associated with living with a smoker, ranging from an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 4.6 (95% CI: 3.6, 5.8) in Botswana to 27.6 (95% CI: 20.1, 37.8) in Nigeria. SHS exposure at home was significantly associated with lower education attainment (Kenya and Ethiopia), and lower wealth index (Uganda, Senegal, and Botswana).

Conclusions

SHS exposure in homes was associated with the presence of a smoker in the home and lower socioeconomic status.
Female Genital Tuberculosis
Authors: Tzelios Christine , Neuhausser Werner M , Ryley David , Vo Nhi , Hurtado Rocio M , Nathavitharana Ruvandhi R
Published: October 2022

Female genital tuberculosis (FGTB) is an important cause of morbidity and infertility worldwide. Mycobacterium tuberculosis most commonly spreads to the genital tract from a focus elsewhere in the body and affects the bilateral fallopian tubes and/or endometrium. Many patients with FGTB have indolent disease and are only diagnosed after evaluation for infertility. Women may present with menstrual irregularities, lower abdominal or pelvic pain, or abnormal vaginal discharge. Given the low sensitivity of diagnostic tests, various composite reference standards are used to diagnose FGTB, including some combination of endoscopic findings, microbiological or molecular testing, and histopathological evidence in gynecological specimens. Early treatment with a standard regimen of a 2-month intensive phase with isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide, followed by a 4-month continuation phase with isoniazid and rifampin, is recommended to prevent irreversible organ damage. However, even with treatment, FGTB can lead to infertility or pregnancy-related complications, and stigma is pervasive.
71 Barriers to providing optimal care to children with medical complexity in the emergency department: A physicians' perspective
Authors: Alshammri Fahd , Altamimi Sarah
Published: October 2022

Background

Children with medical complexity (CMC) are a subset of the pediatric population with chronic medical conditions requiring specialized care and high health resource utilization. Due to the nature of their underlying diseases, along with the medical devices that they are reliant on, they account for a large proportion of annual pediatric emergency department (ED) visits in tertiary centres and about one third of the children admitted. ED physicians are often the first to interact with CMC patients and thus the quality of care they provide influences the hospital course of those patients.

Objectives

To determine and explore the barriers that ED physicians face when providing care to CMC in the ED and identify potential areas of improvement in care provided in the ED.

Design/Methods

Semi-structured personal interviews were conducted virtually with 20 pediatric emergency medicine physicians and fellows. Each participant was asked the same set of questions and given extra time to elaborate. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and manual coding was conducted to identify commonalities across the interviews.

Results

We identified four major themes and 12 sub-themes as barriers to optimal care of CMC in the ED. Major themes included time, training, medico-legal concerns, and care plans. The two most commonly identified barriers were time required to care for CMC patients, identified by 90% (n=18) of the participants, and limited exposure during fellowship training, identified by 80% (n=16) of the participants. Only 20% (n=4) identified medico-legal challenges as a unique barrier when managing CMC. All the participants (n=20) emphasized the importance of a care plan, a detailed document given to caregivers of CMC by the primary care team with details about their medical condition, and if not available, 85% (n=17) indicated that it will affect the efficiency and quality of care provided. Even if a care plan is available, 50% (n=10) of the participants would still contact the complex care team for further management recommendations.

Conclusion

Care plan accessibility and time restraint in the ED are major barriers faced by PEM physicians in the ED when caring for CMC. Additional training during fellowship in complex care medicine and providing patients with an updated care plan are two interventions suggested to optimize care of CMC in the ED.
96 Impact and Feasibility of a Pediatric Social Determinants of Health Questionnaire: A Pilot Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Carwana Matthew , Ricci Taylor , DiCicco Alesia , Ponton Ethan , Duffy Damian , Courtemanche Rebecca , Lau William , Singh Tanjot , Loock Christine
Published: October 2022

Background

Social determinants of health (SDoH)—which are factors such as socioeconomic status (SES), access to transportation, food and housing security, disability and social supports—have been shown to influence up to 50% of health in patients. The project team developed a SDoH Questionnaire which evolved into what is now referred to as BEARS (Barriers to Care, Economic Factors, Adversity, Resiliency, Social Capital). Part of the BEARS Questionnaire includes an optional section for inquiring about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).

Objectives

The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact and feasibility of the BEARS Questionnaire. Additional objectives were to assess the utility and functionality of the BEARS Questionnaire as a social history-taking tool, including the cumulative ACEs questions, and obtain suggestions for improvement of the tool.

Design/Methods

This was a mixed methods pilot study that consisted of quantitative surveys and qualitative structured interviews with clinicians who had experience using the BEARS Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were performed on all survey results. Thematic analysis was performed on clinician interviews with recurrent themes being identified through iterative analysis and tagged quotations.

Results

15 clinicians completed the quantitative survey and five took part in a qualitative interview. Study participants included surgeons, pediatricians, speech language pathologists, social workers and nurse clinicians. The BEARS Questionnaire changed clinician practice by increasing the frequency and breadth of social screening in their patients and optimizing care to fit their patients’ social context. Participants described the BEARS as an effective screening tool for SDoH and ACEs that was feasible to implement into their clinic workflow.

Three themes emerged from our interviews: (1) Thorough social history taking highlights family resiliency and improves clinician-patient rapport, (2) Screening for ACEs is acceptable and feasible in a safe clinical environment, and (3) Social screening is feasible in a busy clinical environment and there is room for improvement.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of social screening in pediatric patients and their families, and how using a social screening tool allows providers to tailor care for a patients’ social context. The BEARS Questionnaire is feasible to implement within the context of a busy clinic. Finally, despite being a sensitive topic, an ACEs questionnaire can be incorporated when done in a trauma-informed way, and in the context of a longitudinal therapeutic relationship.
Negation in Negationless Intuitionistic Mathematics
Authors: Ferguson Thomas Macaulay
Published: October 2022

The mathematician G.F.C. Griss is known for his program of negationless intuitionistic mathematics. Although Griss’s rejection of negation is regarded as characteristic of his philosophy, this is a consequence of an executability requirement that mental constructions presuppose agents’ executing corresponding mental activity. Restoring Griss’s executability requirement to a central role permits a more subtle characterization of the rejection of negation, according to which D. Nelson’s strong constructible negation is compatible with Griss’s principles. This exposes a ‘holographic’ theory of negation in negationless mathematics, in which a full theory of negation is ‘flattened’ in a putatively negationless setting.
p-Coumaroylation of lignin occurs outside of commelinid monocots in the eudicot genusMorus(mulberry)
Authors: Hellinger Jan , Kim Hoon , Ralph John , Karlen Steven D
Published: October 2022

The presence of p-coumarate (pCA) in plant cell walls is generally considered to be a trait present only in commelinid monocots. Here, we show that this long-held overgeneralizing assumption is incorrect and that mulberry trees (Morus) are eudicot plants that have lignins derived in part from monolignol pCA esters. As in commelinid monocots, the lignin-bound pCA acylates the sidechain γ-hydroxyl of both coniferyl and syringyl units. This discovery expands mulberry’s potential applications to include being a source of p-coumaric acid, a supplier of nutritious berries, a forage crop, a decorative plant, and the main food source for silkworms.
Sympathetic Blocks as a Predictor for Response to Ketamine Infusion in Patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Cohen Steven P , Khunsriraksakul Chachrit , Yoo Yongjae , Parker Evan , Samen-Akinsiku Christelle D K , Patel Nirav , Cohen Seffrah J , Yuan Xiaoning , Cheng Jianguo , Moon Jee Youn
Published: October 2022

Background

Ketamine infusions are frequently employed for refractory complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), but there are limited data on factors associated with treatment response. Sympathetic blocks are also commonly employed in CRPS for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes and generally precede ketamine infusions.

Objectives

We sought to determine whether demographic and clinical factors, and technical and psychophysical characteristics of sympathetic blocks are associated with response to ketamine infusion.

Methods

In this multi-center retrospective study, 71 patients who underwent sympathetic blocks followed by ketamine infusions at 4 hospitals were evaluated. Sympathetically maintained pain (SMP) was defined as ≥ 50% immediate pain relief after sympathetic block and a positive response to ketamine was defined as ≥ 30% pain relief lasting over 3 weeks.

Results

Factors associated with a positive response to ketamine in univariable analysis were the presence of SMP (61.0% success rate vs 26.7% in those with sympathetically independent pain; P = .009) and post-block temperature increase (5.66 ± 4.20 in ketamine responders vs 3.68 ± 3.85 in non-responders; P = .043). No psychiatric factor was associated with ketamine response. In multivariable analysis, SMP (OR 6.54 [95% CI 1.83, 23.44]) and obesity (OR 8.75 [95% 1.45, 52.73]) were associated with a positive ketamine infusion outcome.

Conclusions

The response to sympathetic blocks may predict response to ketamine infusion in CRPS patients, with alleviation of the affective component of pain and predilection to a positive placebo effect being possible explanations.
The Missing Homebuyers: Regional Heterogeneity and Credit Contractions
Authors: Mabille Pierre
Published: October 2022

This paper documents an unprecedented decrease in young homeownership since the Great Recession driven by regions with high house prices. Using a panel of U.S. metro areas, I calibrate an equilibrium spatial macro-finance model with overlapping generations of mobile households. The dynamics of regional housing markets is explained by an aggregate credit contraction with heterogeneous local impacts rather than by local shocks. Lower millennial income and wealth amplify its effect. The impact of subsidies to first-time buyers is dampened, because they fail to stimulate regions that suffer from larger busts. Place-based subsidies achieve larger gains.

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Increased Presynaptic Dopamine Synthesis Capacity Is Associated With Aberrant Dopamine Neuron Activity in the Methylazoxymethanol Acetate Rodent Model Used to Study Schizophrenia-Related Pathologies
Authors: Perez Stephanie M , Elam Hannah B , Lodge Daniel J
Published: October 2022

Aberrant dopamine system function is thought to contribute to the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. Clinical imaging studies have demonstrated that the largest dopamine abnormality in patients appears to be an increase in presynaptic dopamine activity. Indeed, studies utilizing [18F]DOPA positive emission tomography reliably report increases in presynaptic dopamine bioavailability in patients and may serve as a biomarker for treatment response. The mechanisms contributing to this increased presynaptic activity in human patients is not yet fully understood, which necessitates the use of preclinical models. Dopamine system function can be directly examined in experimental animals using in vivo electrophysiology. One consistent finding from preclinical studies in rodent models used to study schizophrenia-like neuropathology is a 2-fold increase in the number of spontaneously active dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), termed population activity. We posit that increased striatal dopamine synthesis capacity is attributed to an augmented VTA dopamine neuron population activity. Here, we directly test this hypothesis using [3H]DOPA ex vivo autoradiography, to quantify striatal dopamine synthesis capacity, in the methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) model, a validated rodent model displaying neurophysiological and behavioral alterations consistent with schizophrenia-like symptomatologies. Consistent with human imaging studies, dopamine synthesis capacity was significantly increased in dorsal and ventral striatal subregionis, including the caudate putamen and nucleus accumbens, of MAM-treated rats and associated with specific increases in dopamine neuron population activity. Taken together, these data provide a link between mechanistic studies in rodent models and clinical studies of increased presynaptic dopamine function in human subjects.
The missing cost of ecological sleep loss
Authors: Lesku John A , Rattenborg Niels C
Published: October 2022

Sleep serves many important functions. And yet, emerging studies over the last decade indicate that some species routinely sleep little, or can temporarily restrict their sleep to low levels, seemingly without cost. Taken together, these systems challenge the prevalent view of sleep as an essential state on which waking performance depends. Here, we review diverse case-studies, including elephant matriarchs, post-partum cetaceans, seawater sleeping fur seals, soaring seabirds, birds breeding in the high Arctic, captive cavefish, and sexually aroused fruit flies. We evaluate the likelihood of mechanisms that might allow more sleep than is presently appreciated. But even then, it appears these species are indeed performing well on little sleep. The costs, if any, remain unclear. Either these species have evolved a (yet undescribed) ability to supplant sleep needs, or they endure a (yet undescribed) cost. In both cases, there is urgent need for the study of non-traditional species so we can fully appreciate the extent, causes, and consequences of ecological sleep loss.
Using Pluripotent Stem Cells to Understand Normal and Leukemic Hematopoietic Development
Authors: Bigas Anna , Galán Palma Luis , Kartha Gayathri M , Giorgetti Alessandra
Published: October 2022

Several decades have passed since the generation of the first embryonic stem cell (ESC) lines both in mice and in humans. Since then, stem cell biologists have tried to understand their potential biological and clinical uses for their implementation in regenerative medicine. The hematopoietic field was a pioneer in establishing the potential use for the development of blood cell products and clinical applications; however, early expectations have been truncated by the difficulty in generating bonafide hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Despite some progress in understanding the origin of HSCs during embryonic development, the reproduction of this process in vitro is still not possible, but the knowledge acquired in the embryo is slowly being implemented for mouse and human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). In contrast, ESC-derived hematopoietic cells may recapitulate some leukemic transformation processes when exposed to oncogenic drivers. This would be especially useful to model prenatal leukemia development or other leukemia-predisposing syndromes, which are difficult to study. In this review, we will review the state of the art of the use of PSCs as a model for hematopoietic and leukemia development.
Current status of nuclear cardiology practice in Latin America and the Caribbean, in the era of multimodality cardiac imaging approach: 2022 update
Authors: Peix Amalia , Mesquita Claudio T. , Gutiérrez Claudia , Puente Adriana , Dueñas-C Karen A. , Massardo Teresa , Berrocal Isabel , Astesiano Andrea , Agüero Roberto N. , Bañolas Ryenne , Hiplan Enrique , Sánchez Mayra , Barreda Ana Ma. , Gómez Vanessa V. , Fernández Cynthia , Portillo Silvia , Herrera Yariela , Mendoza Aurelio , Kapitan Miguel , Castellanos Carlos , Rodríguez Diana I. , Estrada Enrique , Páez Diana
Published: October 2022

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), with the risk in men being slightly higher than in women. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused a significant reduction in the number of cardiac diagnostic procedures globally and in particular in LAC. Nuclear cardiology is available in the region, but there is variability in terms of existing technology, radiopharmaceuticals, and human resources. In the region, there are 2385 single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and 315 PET scanners, Argentina and Brazil have the largest number. There is an increasing number of new technologies such as cadmium–zinc–telluride (CZT) cardiac-dedicated gamma cameras, SPECT/computed tomography (CT), and PET/CT. All countries performed myocardial perfusion imaging studies, mainly gated-SPECT; the rest are multi-gated acquisition, mainly for cardiac toxicity; detection of viability; rest gated SPECT in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, and bone-avid tracer cardiac scintigraphy for transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis diagnosis. Regarding other non-nuclear cardiac imaging modalities, Argentina, Colombia, and Chile have the highest ratio of CT scanners, while Brazil, Argentina, and Chile show the highest ratio of MRI scanners. The development of nuclear cardiology and other advanced imaging modalities is challenged by the high cost of equipment, lack of equipment maintenance and service, insufficient-specific training both for imaging specialists and referring clinicians, and lack of awareness of cardiologists or other referring physicians on the clinical applications of nuclear cardiology. Another important aspect to consider is the necessity of implementing cardiac imaging multimodality training. A joint work of nuclear medicine specialists, radiologists, cardiologists, and clinicians, in general, is mandatory to achieve this goal. National, regional, and international cooperation including support from scientific professional societies such as the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and Latin American Association of Biology and Nuclear Medicine Societies, cardiological societies, and organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, and Pan American Health Organization, as well as government commitment are key factors in the overall efforts to tackle the burden of cardiovascular diseases in the region.
Clinical Nurse Specialist Transition to Practice
Authors: Bloomingdale Rosina , Darmody Julie V. , Ellis Julie L.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

A quality improvement/evidence-based practice project identified the critical components of clinical nurse specialist (CNS) transition-to-practice (TTP) needs based on the experiences and perceptions of entry-level CNSs (n = 4), experienced CNSs (n = 7), and directors of nursing (n = 6) employed in a tertiary healthcare center. Structured 60- to 90-minute face-to-face discussions were conducted.

Description

As knowledge workers, CNSs are critical to investigating, solving, and transforming some of the most challenging current and future healthcare problems. Lack of standardized CNS TTP may result in variable levels of practice, knowledge, skill attainment, and ability to attain interdisciplinary practice competencies.

Outcomes

Findings included identification of entry-level CNS TTP key components: 16 categories with 8 critical categories identified as imminent needs. Challenges identified included stakeholders' lack of knowledge/understanding of the CNS role and scope; enormous TTP expectations of entry-level CNSs; transdisciplinary relationships and collaboration; leadership culture and collaboration; organizational culture; deliberate practice; and lack of support, resources, and basic needs.

Conclusion

Critical components for advanced deliberate practice within a CNS TTP program include an organizational culture and subculture that understands and values the CNS, along with tiered sustainable support from preceptors, mentors, and support CNSs across the setting and system.
Acute Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Taylor Elizabeth C. , Fitzpatrick Casey E. , Thompson Stasia E. , Justice Stephanie Baker
Published: October 2022

Approximately 17,000 new spinal cord injuries occur each year in the United States, with motor vehicle collisions and falls being the most common causes. Even though 94% of patients survive the initial injury and corresponding hospitalization, their life expectancy is reduced secondary to the long-term complications that stem from their injury. Every patient should be approached in the same manner (i.e., as if they have a spinal cord injury) until proven otherwise to prevent additional injury. Important considerations that should take place in the emergency department include the patient's airway, the presence of shock, and the prevention of complications secondary to the primary injury. This article briefly summarizes the epidemiology and pathophysiology of spinal cord injuries and the therapies that may be recommended and initiated following a thorough assessment of the patient.
Evaluation and Management of Rectal Prolapse Among Geriatric Patients
Authors: Lewallen Kanah May
Published: October 2022

Evaluation and management of older adults within emergency care settings is often complex and has the potential for avoidable complications. In an effort to prevent harm to the patient, treatment strategies need to be multifactorial. For geriatric patients presenting with rectal prolapse, unique management strategies, including the use of granulated sugar and gentle pressure, may assist in the reduction of the prolapsed tissue. Additional interventions that are important to incorporate into the older adult's plan of care include gentle approaches to positioning, involvement of family/caregivers, avoiding harmful medications, reducing risk for delirium, and a successful transition of care. A manual reduction completed in the emergency department can relieve discomfort and prevent further complications while the patient awaits surgical evaluation and intervention. Prompt evaluation and management by the advanced practice registered nurse may not only expedite recognition of the prolapse, but can reduce iatrogenic complications that may occur from delayed treatment.
Paenibacillus sabuli sp. nov., isolated from the South China Sea
Authors: Gao Qi-jie , Mo Kun-lian , Hu Yong-hua , Liu Zhi-yuan , Huang Hui-qin
Published: October 2022

A Gram-positive, rod-shaped, motile, spore-forming bacterium, designated strain IB182496T, was isolated from coastal sand of the South China Sea. The strain grew optimally at pH 7.0–9.0, 20–30 °C, and with NaCl 3.0–5.0 %. The predominant menaquinone was MK-7 and the major cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and C16 : 0. The polar lipids in the cell wall included diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, three unidentified phospholipids and one unidentified lipid. The comparison of 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain IB182496T was most closely related to ‘Paenibacillus sambharensis’ SMB1 and

Paenibacillus tarimensis

SA-7-6T with similarities of 95.7 and 95.5 %, respectively. The whole-genome average nucleotide identity values between strain IB182496T and the two reference strains were 70.8 and 70.5%, and the digital DNA–DNA hybridization values were 18.7 and 18.0 %, respectively. Genomic analyses showed that strain IB182496T presented a genome of 6.22 Mbp with chromosomal G+C content of 60.3 %, and a total of 5261 genes were predicted. The combined phylogenetic relatedness, phenotypic and genotypic features supported the conclusion that strain IB182496T should be considered as representing a novel species of the genus

Paenibacillus

, for which we propose the name Paenibacillus sabuli sp. nov. with the type strain IB182496T (=MCCC 1K04627T=JCM 34216T).
Sulfurimonas marina sp. nov., an obligately chemolithoautotrophic, sulphur-oxidizing bacterium isolated from a deep-sea sediment sample from the South China Sea
Authors: Wang Zhaodi , Wang Shasha , Lai Qiliang , Wei Shiping , Jiang Lijing , Shao Zongze
Published: October 2022

A novel marine bacterium, designated strain B2T, was isolated from a deep-sea sediment sample collected from the South China Sea. Cells were observed to be Gram-stain negative, motile and rod shaped with a single polar flagellum. B2T could grow at 10–45 °C (optimum, 35 °C), pH 4.5–9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) and in the presence of 1.0–8.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 3.0%). The isolate grew chemolithoautotrophically with sulphide, elemental sulphur and thiosulphate as electron donors, carbon dioxide as the sole carbon source, and molecular oxygen as the sole electron acceptor. Molecular hydrogen did not support growth. The predominant fatty acids of B2T were C16 : 1ω7c, C16 : 0 and C18 : 1ω7c. The results of phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that B2T represented a member of the genus

Sulfurimonas

, with the highest similarity to the 16S rRNA gene sequences of

Sulfurimonas indica

NW8NT (95.9 %),

Sulfurimonas crateris

SN118T (95.7 %),

Sulfurimonas xiamenensis

1-1NT (95.6 %) and

Sulfurimonas paralvinellae

GO25T (95.4 %). Sequence similarities to other members of the genus

Sulfurimonas

were less than 95.0 %. In addition, the average nucleotide identity (ANI) value and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) estimate between B2T and

S. indica

NW8NT were 73.0 and 23.7 %, respectively. The size of the complete genome of B2T is 22 61 034 bp, with a DNA G+C content of 36.0 mol %. On the basis of the phenotypic, phylogenetic and genomic data presented here, strain B2T represent a novel species of the genus

Sulfurimonas

, for which the name Sulfurimonas marina sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain B2T (=MCCC 1A14515T=KCTC 15852T).
A novel species of lactic acid bacteria, Ligilactobacillus pabuli sp. nov., isolated from alfalfa silage
Authors: Tohno Masanori , Tanizawa Yasuhiro , Sawada Hiroyuki , Sakamoto Mitsuo , Ohkuma Moriya , Kobayashi Hisami
Published: October 2022

In this study, we isolated a novel strain of lactic acid bacteria, AF129T, from alfalfa silage prepared locally in Morioka, Iwate, Japan. Polyphasic taxonomy was used to characterize the bacterial strain. The bacterium was rod-shaped, Gram-stain-positive, non-spore-forming and catalase-negative. The strain grew at various temperatures (15–40°C) and pH levels (4.0–8.0). The optimum growth conditions were a temperature of 30°C and a pH of 6.0. AF129T exhibited growth at salt (NaCl) concentrations of up to 6.5 % (w/v). The G+C content of the strain’s genomic DNA was 41.5 %. The major fatty acids were C16 : 0, C18 : 1ω9c, C19 : 0cyclo ω8c and summed feature 8. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that AF129T represents a member of the genus

Ligilactobacillus

and it has higher sequence similarities with

Ligilactobacillus pobuzihii

(98.4 %),

Ligilactobacillus acidipiscis

(97.5 %) and

Ligilactobacillus salitolerans

(97.4 %). The digital DNA–DNA hybridization values for AF129T and phylogenetically related species of the genus

Ligilactobacillus

ranged from 19.8% to 24.1%. The average nucleotide identity of the strain with its closely related taxa was lower than the threshold (95 %–96 %) used for species differentiation. In the light of the above-mentioned physiological, genotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic evidence, we confirm that AF129T represents a member of the genus

Ligilactobacillus

and constitutes a novel species; we propose the name Ligilactobacillus pabuli sp. nov. for this species. The type strain is AF129T =MAFF 518002T =JCM 34518T=BCRC 81335T.
One clone to rule them all: Culture-independent genomics of Chlamydia psittaci from equine and avian hosts in Australia
Authors: White Rhys T. , Anstey Susan I. , Kasimov Vasilli , Jenkins Cheryl , Devlin Joanne , El-Hage Charles , Pannekoek Yvonne , Legione Alistair R. , Jelocnik Martina
Published: October 2022

Chlamydia psittaci

is an avian pathogen with zoonotic potential. In Australia,

C. psittaci

has been well reported as a cause of reproductive loss in mares which subsequently have been the source of infection and illness in some in-contact humans. To date, molecular typing studies describe the predominant and clonal

C. psittaci

sequence type (ST)24 strains in horse, psittacine, and human infections. We sought to assess the clonality between ST24 strains and the emergence of equine ST24 with a comprehensive genomics approach. We used culture-independent probe-based and metagenomic whole-genome sequencing to investigate 13

C

.

psittaci

genomes from horses, psittacines, and a pigeon from Australia. Published genomes of 36

C

.

psittaci

strains were also used to contextualise our Australian dataset and investigate lineage diversity. We utilised a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) based clustering and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) approach.

C. psittaci

has four major phylogenetic groups (PG1-4) based on core-genome SNP-based phylogeny. PG1 contained clonal global and Australian equine, psittacine, and human ST24 genomes, with a median pairwise SNP distance of 68 SNPs. PG2, PG3, and PG4 had greater genomic diversity, including diverse STs collected from birds, livestock, human, and horse hosts from Europe and North America and a racing pigeon from Australia. We show that the clustering of

C. psittaci

by MLST was congruent with SNP-based phylogeny. The monophyletic ST24 clade has four major sub-lineages. The genomes of 17 Australian human, equine, and psittacine strains collected between 2008 and 2021 formed the predominant ST24 sub-lineage 1 (emerged circa 1979). Despite a temporal distribution of 13 years, the genomes within sub-lineage 1 had a median pairwise SNP distance of 32 SNPs, suggesting a recent population expansion or potential cross-host transmission. However, two

C. psittaci

genomes collected in 2015 from Victorian parrots clustered into distinct ST24 sub-lineage 4 (emerged circa 1965) with ovine strain C19/98 from Germany. This work describes a comprehensive phylogenomic characterisation of ST24 and identifies a timeline of potential bird-to-equine spillover events.
A microfluidic finger-actuated blood lysate preparation device enabled by rapid acoustofluidic mixing
Authors: Haque Md Ehtashamul , Conde Alvaro J. , MacPherson William N. , Knight Stephen R , Carter Richard M. , Kersaudy-Kerhoas Maïwenn
Published: October 2022

For many blood-based diagnostic tests, including prophylactic drug analysis and malaria assays, red blood cells must be lysed effectively prior to their use in an analytical workflow. We report on a finger-actuated blood lysate preparation device, which utilises a previously reported acoustofluidic micromixer module. The integrated device includes a range of innovations from a sample interface, to the integration of blisters on a laser engraved surface and a large volume (130 μL) one-stroke manual pump which could be useful in other low-cost microfluidic-based point-of-care devices. The adaptability of the acoustic mixer is demonstrated on highly viscous fluids, including whole blood, with up to 65% percent volume fraction of red blood cells. Used in conjunction with a lysis buffer, the micromixer unit is also shown to lyse a finger-prick (20 μL) blood sample in 30 seconds and benchmarked across ten donor samples. Finally, we demonstrate the ease of use of the fully integrated device. Cheap, modular, but reliable, finger-actuated microfluidic functions could open up opportunities for the development of diagnostics with minimal resources.
Dynamics of species-rich predator–prey networks and seasonal alternations of keystone species
Authors: Suzuki Sayaka , Baba Yuki G. , Toju Hirokazu
Published: October 2022

In nature, entangled webs of predator–prey interactions constitute the backbones of ecosystems. Uncovering the network architecture of such trophic interactions has been recognized as the essential step for exploring species with great impacts on ecosystem-level phenomena and functions. However, it has remained a major challenge to reveal how species-rich networks of predator–prey interactions are continually reshaped though time in the wild. We here show that dynamics of species-rich predator–prey interactions can be characterized by remarkable network structural changes and alternations of potential keystone species. Based on high-throughput detection of prey DNA from 1,556 spider individuals collected in a grassland ecosystem, we reconstructed dynamics of interaction networks involving, in total, 50 spider species and 974 prey species/strains through eight months. The networks were compartmentalized into modules (groups) of closely interacting predators and prey in some but not all months. As the modules differed in detritus/grazing food chain properties, complex fission-fusion dynamics of below-ground and above-ground energy channels was reconstructed across the seasons. The substantial shifts of network structure entailed alternations of spider species located at the core positions within the entangled webs of interactions. These results indicate that knowledge of dynamically shifting food webs is essential for understanding the temporally-varying roles of keystone species that interlink multiple energy channels.