bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of resource generalism via generalized stress response confers increased reproductive thermal tolerance in a pest beetle
Authors: Leonard Aoife M , Lancaster Lesley T
Published: August 2022

Generalism should be favoured evolutionarily when there is no genetic constraint or loss of fitness across alternative environments. However, evolution of generalism can require substantial evolutionary change, which can confer a general stress response to other aspects of the environment. We created generalist lineages from an ancestral, resource-specialized laboratory population of seed beetles (Callosobruchus maculatus) by rearing lines over 60 generations on a mixture of both ancestral and novel host species to test for costs associated with the evolution of generalism involving evolutionary changes in gene expression and correlated phenotypic responses during a shift to generalism. Evolved lines had higher fitness on the novel resource, with no loss of fitness on the ancestral resource, indicating that they overcame initial fitness trade-offs. This involved upregulation of major stress response (heat shock protein) genes and genes coding for metabolic enzymes, suggesting an underpinning metabolic and physiological cost. Resource generalist populations also evolved greater thermal tolerance breadth, highlighting that the evolution of resource generalism might pre-adapt species to respond favourably to other environmental stressors, following selection for generalized stress response gene upregulation. The rapid gain of novel hosts during a pest invasion might also confer greater thermal resilience to ongoing climate change.
Efficacy of PET/CT in diagnosis of regional lymph node metastases in patients with colorectal cancer: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yukimoto Ryohei , Uemura Mamoru , Tsuboyama Takahiro , Sekido Yuki , Hata Tsuyoshi , Ogino Takayuki , Miyoshi Norikatsu , Takahashi Hidekazu , Kida Akira , Furuyashiki Mamoru , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi
Published: August 2022

Background

Endoscopic and transanal local resection without lymph node dissection are treatment options for patients with a low risk of lymph node metastasis; however, some patients might have undiagnosed lymph node metastases before surgery. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative PET/CT for diagnosing regional lymph node metastasis.

Methods

Patients who underwent curative resection with lymph node dissection for colorectal cancer at Osaka University between January 2012 and December 2015 were included. The cut-off values appropriate for diagnosing lymph node metastasis were calculated by way of a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves from maximum standard unit value (SUVmax) of main tumour, and lymph node short axis, and SUVmax of lymph node. The cut-off values of primary tumour SUVmax: 7, short-axis diameter of the lymph node at 7 mm, and lymph node SUVmax at 1.5 were set.

Result

A total of 541 patients were included. Regional lymph node metastases were confirmed in resected specimens from 187 patients (35 per cent). With a primary tumour SUVmax of 7 used as a cut-off value, the sensitivity and specificity of regional lymph node metastasis were 70.1 per cent and 45.5 per cent respectively. With a cut-off short-axis diameter of the regional lymph node of 7 mm, the sensitivity and specificity of regional lymph node metastasis were 75.2 per cent and 82.6 per cent respectively, and with a cut-off regional lymph node SUVmax of 1.5, the sensitivity and specificity of regional lymph node metastasis were 78.6 per cent and 96.8 per cent respectively. When the diagnostic criteria were defined by a lymph node short-axis diameter of 7 mm or SUVmax of 1.5, the sensitivity and specificity were 87.4 per cent and 81.8 per cent respectively.

Conclusion

Preoperative PET/CT is a useful modality for evaluating regional lymph node metastasis in patients with colorectal cancer.
Soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor improves early risk stratification in cardiogenic shock
Authors: Hongisto Mari , Lassus Johan , Tarvasmäki Tuukka , Sans-Roselló Jordi , Tolppanen Heli , Kataja Anu , Jäntti Toni , Sabell Tuija , Banaszewski Marek , Silva-Cardoso Jose , Parissis John , Jurkko Raija , Spinar Jindrich , Castrén Maaret , Mebazaa Alexandre , Masip Josep , Harjola Veli Pekka ,   for the CardShock Study Investigators and the GREAT Network
Published: August 2022

Aims

Soluble urokinase–type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is a biomarker reflecting the level of immune activation. It has been shown to have prognostic value in acute coronary syndrome and heart failure as well as in critical illness. Considering the complex pathophysiology of cardiogenic shock (CS), we hypothesized suPAR might have prognostic properties in CS as well. The aim of this study was to assess the kinetics and prognostic utility of suPAR in CS.

Methods and results

SuPAR levels were determined in serial plasma samples (0–96 h) from 161 CS patients in the prospective, observational, multicentre CardShock study. Kinetics of suPAR, its association with 90-day mortality, and additional value in risk-stratification were investigated. The median suPAR-level at baseline was 4.4 [interquartile range (IQR) 3.2–6.6)] ng/mL. SuPAR levels above median were associated with underlying comorbidities, biomarkers reflecting renal and cardiac dysfunction, and higher 90-day mortality (49% vs. 31%; P = 0.02). Serial measurements showed that survivors had significantly lower suPAR levels at all time points compared with nonsurvivors. For risk stratification, suPAR at 12 h (suPAR12h) with a cut-off of 4.4 ng/mL was strongly associated with mortality independently of established risk factors in CS: OR 5.6 (95% CI 2.0–15.5); P = 0.001) for death by 90 days. Adding suPAR12h > 4.4 ng/mL to the CardShock risk score improved discrimination identifying high-risk patients originally categorized in the intermediate-risk category.

Conclusion

SuPAR associates with mortality and improves risk stratification independently of other previously known risk factors in CS patients.
Uptake of prescription smoking cessation pharmacotherapies after hospitalization for major cardiovascular disease
Authors: Robijn Annelies L , Woodward Mark , Pearson Sallie-Anne , Hsu Benjumin , Chow Clara K , Filion Kristian B , Jorm Louisa , Havard Alys
Published: August 2022

Aims

We determined the prevalence of prescription smoking cessation pharmacotherapy (SCP) use after hospitalization for major cardiovascular disease (MCD) among people who smoke and whether this varies by sex.

Methods and results

We conducted a population-based cohort study including all people hospitalized in New South Wales, Australia, between July 2013 and December 2018 (2017 for private hospitals) with an MCD diagnosis. For patients who also had a diagnosis of current tobacco use, we used linked pharmaceutical dispensing records to identify prescription SCP dispensings within 90 days post-discharge. We determined the proportion who were dispensed an SCP within 90 days, overall and by type of SCP. We used logistic regression to estimate the odds of females being dispensed an SCP relative to males. Of the 150 758 patients hospitalized for an MCD, 20 162 (13.4%) had a current tobacco use diagnosis, 31% of whom were female. Of these, 11.3% (12.4% of females, 10.9% of males) received prescription SCP within 90 days post-discharge; 3.0% were dispensed varenicline, and 8.3% were dispensed nicotine replacement therapy patches. Females were more likely than males to be dispensed a prescription SCP [odds ratio (OR) 1.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–1.27)]; however, this was not maintained after adjusting for potential confounders (adjusted OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.94–1.15).

Conclusion

Very few females and males who smoke use prescription SCPs after hospitalization for an MCD. The use of varenicline, the SCP with the highest efficacy, was particularly low. This represents a missed opportunity to increase smoking cessation in this high-risk population, thereby reducing their risk of recurrent cardiovascular events.
The complexity landscape of viral genomes
Authors: Silva Jorge Miguel , Pratas Diogo , Caetano Tânia , Matos Sérgio
Published: August 2022

Background

Viruses are among the shortest yet highly abundant species that harbor minimal instructions to infect cells, adapt, multiply, and exist. However, with the current substantial availability of viral genome sequences, the scientific repertory lacks a complexity landscape that automatically enlights viral genomes’ organization, relation, and fundamental characteristics.

Results

This work provides a comprehensive landscape of the viral genome’s complexity (or quantity of information), identifying the most redundant and complex groups regarding their genome sequence while providing their distribution and characteristics at a large and local scale. Moreover, we identify and quantify inverted repeats abundance in viral genomes. For this purpose, we measure the sequence complexity of each available viral genome using data compression, demonstrating that adequate data compressors can efficiently quantify the complexity of viral genome sequences, including subsequences better represented by algorithmic sources (e.g., inverted repeats). Using a state-of-the-art genomic compressor on an extensive viral genomes database, we show that double-stranded DNA viruses are, on average, the most redundant viruses while single-stranded DNA viruses are the least. Contrarily, double-stranded RNA viruses show a lower redundancy relative to single-stranded RNA. Furthermore, we extend the ability of data compressors to quantify local complexity (or information content) in viral genomes using complexity profiles, unprecedently providing a direct complexity analysis of human herpesviruses. We also conceive a features-based classification methodology that can accurately distinguish viral genomes at different taxonomic levels without direct comparisons between sequences. This methodology combines data compression with simple measures such as GC-content percentage and sequence length, followed by machine learning classifiers.

Conclusions

This article presents methodologies and findings that are highly relevant for understanding the patterns of similarity and singularity between viral groups, opening new frontiers for studying viral genomes’ organization while depicting the complexity trends and classification components of these genomes at different taxonomic levels. The whole study is supported by an extensive website (https://asilab.github.io/canvas/) for comprehending the viral genome characterization using dynamic and interactive approaches.
Effect of air gap depth on Trombe wall system using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Abbas Ehsan F , Al-abady Abdulnasser , Raja Vijayanandh , AL-bonsrulah Hussein A Z , Al-Bahrani Mohammed
Published: August 2022

The present study aimed to develop a computational model to understand the effect of air gap depth on the Trombe wall (TW) system. The simulation was performed for midday of January 17, 2017, at a Kirkuk city/Iraq; at this time, the solar intensity was at a maximum value equal to 487.1 W/m2, ambient temperature 10.1°C and wind speed 0.7 km/h. The result of the simulations is investigated with the experimental work in the literature. The various parameters such as thermal efficiency, inlet and outlet temperatures from air gap, room temperature and air mass flow rate in the air gap channel have been considered in simulation. The comparison result showed a good agreement between the predicted results and experimental work. This research work will be useful for the research community to understand the effect of air gap depth in TW system.
Rapid Detection and Determination of Scopolamine in the Leaf Extract of Black Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger L.) Plants Using a Novel Nanosensor
Authors: Mousavizadeh Fatemeh Sadat , Sarlak Nahid , Ghorbanpour Mansour , Ghafarzadegan Reza
Published: August 2022

Background

Scopolamine is among the most essential tropane alkaloids used to remedy various nervous system disorders such as urinary incontinence, motion sickness, and spasmodic movements because of its anticholinergic and antispasmodic effects.

Objective

In this study, an optical nanosensor was fabricated using nano-Dragendorff’s reagent to detect and determine scopolamine in different plant parts at different stages of growth.

Method

For fabrication of the sensing phase, GO-g-PCA/DR was synthesized by encapsulation of Dragendorff’s reagent (DR) on the graphene oxide grafted with poly citric acid (GO-g-PCA) with ultrasonication for 15 min and stirred for 80 min at room temperature, and then it was immobilized on a triacetyl cellulose membrane. The kinetic absorption profiles were recorded at 360 nm, which is concerned with the reaction between immobilized GO-g-PCA/DR and different concentrations of scopolamine.

Results

The nanosensor showed a rapid, strong, and stable response to the scopolamine solution with changing the absorption spectrum at 360 nm. The reaction was completed in a period of 300 s. The SEM, AFM, and FT-IR analysis of nanocomposites and nanosensors show the successful synthesis of GO-g-PCA/DR and the reaction between nanosensor and scopolamine. All experiments were performed at the wavelength of 360 nm, room temperature, pH 7 (the scopolamine solution pH), and 300 s. The nanosensor had a linear range of 0.65 to 19.63 μg/mL and 0.19 ± 0.025 μg/mL as the limit of detection for scopolamine determination. In order to reuse the designed nanosensor, it was recovered with ethanol, and the color ultimately returned to its original state.

Conclusions

This in situ nanosensor can determine the scopolamine in real samples with easy reversibility, extended lifetime, and reproducibility of the sensing phase response.

Highlights

A sensitive, precise, and fast response optical nanosensor is designed for in situ determination of scopolamine in real samples.
Effects of diet on feed intake, weight change, and gas emissions in beef cows
Authors: Holder Amanda L , Gross Megan A , Moehlenpah Alexandra N , Goad Carla L , Rolf Megan , Walker Ryon S , Rogers James K , Lalman David L
Published: August 2022

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of diet energy density on ranking for dry matter intake (DMI), residual feed intake (RFI), and greenhouse gas emissions. Forty-two mature, gestating Angus cows (600 ± 69 kg body weight [BW]; body condition score [BCS] 5.3 ± 1.1) with a wide range in DMI expected progeny difference (−1.38 to 2.91) were randomly assigned to two diet sequences; forage then concentrate (FC) or concentrate then forage (CF). The forage diet consisted of long-stem native grass hay plus protein supplement (HAY; 1.96 Mcal ME/kg DM). The concentrate diet consisted of 35% chopped grass hay and 65% concentrate feeds on a dry matter basis (MIX; 2.5 Mcal ME/kg DM). The GreenFeed Emission Monitoring system was used to determine carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and methane (CH4) flux. Cow performance traits, ultrasound back fat and rump fat, feed DMI, and gas flux data were analyzed in a crossover design using a mixed model including diet, period, and sequence as fixed effects and pen and cow within sequence as random effects. For all measured traits excluding DMI, there was a diet × sequence interaction (P < 0.05). The correlation between MIX and HAY DMI was 0.41 (P = 0.067) and 0.47 (P = 0.03) for FC and CF sequences, respectively. There was no relationship (P > 0.66) between HAY and MIX average daily gain (ADG), regardless of sequence. Fifty-seven percent of the variation in DMI was explained by metabolic BW, ADG, and BCS for both diets during the first period. During the second period, the same three explanatory variables accounted for 38% and 37% of the variation in DMI for MIX and HAY diets, respectively. The negative relationship between BCS and DMI was more pronounced when cows consumed the MIX diet. There was no relationship between MIX and HAY RFI, regardless of sequence (P > 0.18). During the first period, correlations for CO2, CH4, and O2 with MIX DMI were 0.69, 0.81, and 0.56 (P ≤ 0.015), respectively, and 0.76, 0.74, and 0.64 (P < 0.01) with HAY DMI. During the second period, correlations for CO2, CH4, and O2 with MIX DMI were 0.62, 0.47, and 0.56 (P ≤ 0.11), respectively. However, HAY DMI during the second period was not related to gas flux (P > 0.47). Results from this experiment indicate that feed intake of two energy-diverse diets is moderately correlated while ADG while consuming the two diets is not related. Further experimentation is necessary to determine if gas flux data can be used to predict feed intake in beef cows.
Dynamics, structure and assembly of the basement membrane in developing salivary glands revealed by an exogenous EGFP-tagged nidogen probe
Authors: Kadoya Yuichi , Futaki Sugiko , Shimono Chisei , Kimura Taketoshi , Sekiguchi Kiyotoshi
Published: August 2022

Most epithelial tissues rapidly become complex during embryonic development while being surrounded by the basement membrane (BM). Thus, the BM shape is thought to change dramatically as the epithelium grows, but the underlying mechanism is not yet clear. Nidogen-1 is ubiquitous in the BM and binds to various other BM components, including laminin and type IV collagen. To elucidate the behavior of the BM during epithelial morphogenesis, we attempted to live-label the developing BM with recombinant human nidogen-1 fused to an enhanced green fluorescent protein (hNid1-EGFP). Submandibular glands of mouse embryos were cultured in glass-bottomed dishes and incubated in media containing hNid1-EGFP. Subsequent confocal microscopy clearly visualized the BMs surrounding the epithelial end buds. On three-dimensional reconstruction from Z-series confocal sections, the epithelial BM was observed as a thin sheet that expanded continuously around the entire epithelial basal surface. Because the explants continued to grow well in the presence of hNid1-EGFP, time-lapse confocal microscopy was performed to follow the dynamics of the BM. We found that the epithelial BM is an adaptive structure that deforms in accordance with the rapid shape changes of the developing epithelium. Furthermore, hNid1-EGFP was found to be incorporated differently into the epithelial BM compared with that reported for fibronectin or type IV collagen, suggesting that individual BM components assemble in different ways to form the BM.
Spatially resolved study of the SS 433/W 50 west region with Chandra: X-ray structure and spectral variation of non-thermal emission
Authors: Kayama Kazuho , Tanaka Takaaki , Uchida Hiroyuki , Tsuru Takeshi Go , Sudoh Takahiro , Inoue Yoshiyuki , Khangulyan Dmitry , Tsuji Naomi , Yamamoto Hiroaki
Published: August 2022

The X-ray binary SS 433, embedded in the W 50 nebula (or supernova remnant W 50), shows bipolar jets that are ejected with mildly relativistic velocities and which extend toward the east and west out to scales of tens of parsecs. Previous X-ray observations revealed twin lobes along the jet precession axis that contain compact bright knots dominated by synchrotron radiation, which provide evidence of electron acceleration in this system. Particle acceleration in this system is substantiated by the recently detected gamma rays with energies up to at least 25 TeV. To elucidate the origin of the knots and particle acceleration sites in SS 433/W 50 further, we report here on detailed, spatially resolved X-ray spectroscopy of its western lobe with Chandra. We detect synchrotron emission along the jet precession axis, as well as optically thin thermal emission that is more spatially extended. Between the two previously known knots, w1 and w2, we discover another synchrotron knot, which we call w1.5. We find no significant synchrotron emission between SS 433 and the innermost X-ray knot (w1), suggesting that electrons only begin to be accelerated at w1. The X-ray spectra become gradually steeper from w1 to w2, and then rapidly so immediately outside of w2. Through comparison with a model taking into account electron transport and cooling along the jet, this result indicates that the magnetic field in w2 is substantially enhanced, which also explains its brightness. We discuss possible origins of the enhanced magnetic field of w2 as well as scenarios to explain the other two knots.
A genotype-specific architectural and physiological profile is involved in the flowering regularity of apple trees
Authors: Belhassine Fares , Pallas Benoît , Pierru-Bluy Sylvie , Martinez Sébastien , Fumey Damien , Costes Evelyne
Published: August 2022

In polycarpic plants, meristem fate varies within individuals in a given year. In perennials, the proportion of floral induction (FI) in meristems also varies between consecutive years and among genotypes of a given species. Previous studies have suggested that FI of meristems could be determined by the within-plant competition for carbohydrates and by hormone signaling as key components of the flowering pathway. At the genotypic level, variability in FI was also associated with variability in architectural traits. However, the part of genotype-dependent variability in FI that can be explained by either tree architecture or tree physiology is still not fully understood. This study aimed at deciphering the respective effect of architectural and physiological traits on FI variability within apple trees by comparing six genotypes with contrasted architectures. Shoot type demography as well as the flowering and fruit production patterns were followed over 6 years and characterized by different indexes. Architectural morphotypes were then defined based on architectural traits using a clustering approach. For two successive years, non-structural starch content in leaf, stem and meristems, and hormonal contents (gibberellins, cytokinins, auxin and abscisic acid) in meristems were quantified and correlated to FI within-tree proportions. Based on a multi-step regression analysis, cytokinins and gibberellins content in meristem, starch content in leaves and the proportion of long shoots in tree annual growth were shown to contribute to FI. Although the predictive linear model of FI was common to all genotypes, each of the explicative variables had a different weight in FI determination, depending on the genotype. Our results therefore suggest both a common determination model and a genotype-specific architectural and physiological profile linked to its flowering behavior.
Function of a non-enzymatic hexokinase LcHXK1 as glucose sensor in regulating litchi fruit abscission
Authors: Yi Jun-Wen , Ge Han-Tao , Abbas Farhat , Zhao Jie-Tang , Huang Xu-Ming , Hu Gui-Bing , Wang Hui-Cong
Published: August 2022

Fruit abscission is a severe hindrance to commercial crop production, and a lack of carbohydrates causes fruit abscission to intensify in a variety of plant species. However, the precise mechanism by which carbohydrates affect fruit setting potential has yet to be determined. In the current study, we noticed negative correlation between hexose level and fruit setting by comparing different cultivars, bearing shoots of varying diameters, and girdling and defoliation treatments. The cumulative fruit-dropping rate was significantly reduced in response to exogenous glucose dipping. These results suggested that hexose, especially glucose, is the key player in lowering litchi fruit abscission. Moreover, five putative litchi hexokinase genes (LcHXKs) were isolated and the subcellular localization as well as activity of their expressed proteins in catalyzing hexose phosphorylation were investigated. LcHXK2 was only found in mitochondria and expressed catalytic protein, whereas the other four HXKs were found in both mitochondria and nuclei and had no activity in catalyzing hexose phosphorylation. LcHXK1 and LcHXK4 were found in the same cluster as previously reported hexose sensors AtHXK1 and MdHXK1. Furthermore, VIGS-mediated silencing assay confirms that LcHXK1 suppression increases fruit abscission. These findings revealed that LcHXK1 functions as hexose sensor, negatively regulating litchi fruit abscission.
The effects of hypertension on the prognosis of coronavirus disease 2019: a systematic review and meta-analysis on the interactions with age and antihypertensive treatment
Authors: Kabia Alimamy Umaru , Li Ping , Jin Zhichao , Tan Xiaojie , Liu Yilong , Feng Yuqi , Yu Keyao , Hu Ming , Jiang Dongming , Cao Guangwen
Published: August 2022

Background:

Hypertension and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) have been reported to be associated with the prognosis of COVID-19, but the findings remain controversial. Here, we conducted a systematic review to summarize the current evidence.

Methods:

We retrieved all the studies by MEDLINE via PubMed, CENTRAL, and Embase using the MeSH terms until 30 April 2021. A fixed or random effect model was applied to calculate pooled adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Interactive analysis was performed to identify the interaction effect of hypertension and age on in-hospital mortality.

Results:

In total, 86 articles with 18 775 387 COVID-19 patients from 18 countries were included in this study. The pooled analysis showed that the COVID-19 patients with hypertension had increased risks of in-hospital mortality and other adverse outcomes, compared with those without hypertension, with an AOR (95% CI) of 1.36 (1.28–1.45) and 1.32 (1.24–1.41), respectively. The results were mostly repeated in countries with more than three independent studies. Furthermore, the effect of hypertension on in-hospital mortality is more evident in younger and older COVID-19 patients than in 60–69-year-old patients. ACEI/ARBs did not significantly affect the mortality and adverse outcomes of COVID-19 patients, compared with those receiving other antihypertensive treatments.

Conclusion:

Hypertension is significantly associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality and adverse outcomes in COVID-19. The effect of hypertension on in-hospital mortality among consecutive age groups followed a U-shaped curve. ACEI/ARB treatments do not increase in-hospital mortality and other poor outcomes of COVID-19 patients with hypertension.
Residential Homes with Extremely High Indoor Radon Concentrations in Southern Lehigh County, Pennsylvania
Authors: Lewis R.K. , Bleiler D.S. , Smith R.C. , Allard D.J.
Published: August 2022

A housing development of 87 new homes on approximately 300 acres of former farm land was found to have 19 homes with basement radon-222 (222Rn) concentrations greater than 37,000 Bq m−3, with the highest recorded result to date being 648,000 +/− 1,031 Bq m−3, based upon the diffusion barrier charcoal canister result. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Action Level for 222 Rn is 148 Bq m−3. This single-family housing development is in the southeast corner of Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, about 58 km northwest of Philadelphia, in a geologic unit known as the Epler Formation. Radon testing in homes in this development began in the fall of 2014 and is now complete. Initial testing consisted of charcoal canisters mailed to homeowners. Subsequent testing in newly built homes consisted of testing prior to occupancy. This testing was quite extensive, with continuous radon monitors, passive radon monitors, and grab sampling for radon gas and progeny in the basement and on the first floor of each home as well as gamma surveys in the basement, on the first and second floors, and outside of each home. All but one of the new houses in this development had passive radon resistant features installed during the construction phase. In all cases, fans were added to the passive systems to make them active systems, which were needed to control these extremely high radon levels. Additional radon mitigation work such as adding additional suction points was also needed in several homes to reduce levels to below EPA guidelines. The unique geology and high 226Ra soil concentrations in this specific area are the causes of these extremely high radon levels. Radon measurement data both inside these homes and in the outdoor ambient air, as well as 238U and 222Ra rock and soil concentrations, are presented.
Is Patient Geography a Risk Factor for Chronic Opioid Use After ACDF?
Authors: Levy Hannah A. , Karamian Brian A. , Larwa Joseph , Henstenburg Jeffrey , Canseco Jose A. , Haislup Brett , Chang Michael , Patel Parthik , Woods Barrett I. , Hilibrand Alan S. , Kepler Christopher K. , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Schroeder Gregory D.
Published: August 2022

The social and medical implications intrinsic to patient zip codes with high opioid fatality may reveal residence in these locations to be a risk factor predicting chronic opioid use after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). The purpose of this study is to determine if residence in Pennsylvania zip codes with high incidence of opioid overdose deaths is a risk factor for chronic postoperative opioid use after ACDF. Preoperative opioid usage did not vary meaningfully between high- and low-risk zip code groups. Patients in high-risk opioid overdose zip codes were significantly more likely to exhibit chronic postoperative opioid use. The Kaplan–Meier curve demonstrated that opioid discontinuation was less probable at any postoperative time for patients residing in high opioid fatality zip codes. Logistic regression found opioid tolerance, smoking, and depression to predict extended opioid use.
Changes in Social Relationships and Physical Functions in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: JIAO Dandan , WATANABE MIURA Kumi , SAWADA Yuko , TANAKA Emiko , WATANABE Taeko , TOMISAKI Etsuko , ITO Sumio , OKUMURA Rika , KAWASAKI Yuriko , ANME Tokie
Published: August 2022

Background

Social relationships are associated with physical function. However, little scholarly attention has been focused on the effect of changing social factors on physical function.

Purpose

This study was designed to examine the effects on physical function of changes in social relationships in adults aged 65 years and older.

Methods

This study is part of a longitudinal, prospective cohort study that was conducted on community-dwelling older adults in a suburban area of central Japan. Baseline self-report data were collected in 2011, and a follow-up survey was conducted in 2017. Social relationships were assessed using the Index of Social Interaction, and physical function was evaluated using a subscale of the Kihon Checklist. Chi-square tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, and multiple logistic regression analysis were used to analyze data from 442 older adults who were functionally independent at baseline.

Results

After controlling for covariates in 2011, negative changes in social relationships (odds ratio [OR] = 3.20, 95% CI [1.18, 8.69]) were found to be associated with physical function decline. Moreover, 1-point increases in the different social-relationship values between baseline and follow-up were associated with protective effects against functional decline (OR = 0.71, 95% CI [0.63, 0.80]). Furthermore, median trends between baseline and follow-up revealed associations between decreasing (OR = 4.18, 95% CI [1.53, 11.39]) and continuously low (OR = 2.98, 95% CI [1.42, 6.28]) social relationships and physical function decline.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

The findings support a strong association between negative changes in social relationships and physical function decline and highlight the importance of promoting social relationships to delay physical function decline in older adults.
The role of ex-situ perfusion for thoracic organs
Authors: Roesel Maximilian J. , Wiegmann Bettina , Ius Fabio , Knosalla Christoph , Iske Jasper
Published: August 2022

Purpose of review

Ex-situ machine perfusion for both heart (HTx) and lung transplantation (LuTx) reduces ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI), allows for greater flexibility in geographical donor management, continuous monitoring, organ assessment for extended evaluation, and potential reconditioning of marginal organs. In this review, we will delineate the impact of machine perfusion, characterize novel opportunities, and outline potential challenges lying ahead to improve further implementation.

Recent findings

Due to the success of several randomized controlled trials (RCT), comparing cold storage to machine perfusion in HTx and LuTx, implementation and innovation continues. Indeed, it represents a promising interface for organ-specific therapies targeting IRI, allo-immune responses, and graft reconditioning. These mostly experimental efforts range from genetic approaches and nanotechnology to cellular therapies, involving mesenchymal stem cell application. Despite tremendous potential, prior to clinical transition, more data is needed.

Collectively, machine perfusion constitutes the vanguard in thoracic organ transplantation research with extensive potential for expanding the donor pool, enhancing transplant outcomes as well as developing novel therapy approaches.
From bench to bedside: reversing established antibody responses and desensitization
Authors: Chong Anita S. , Habal Marlena V.
Published: August 2022

Purpose of review

Basic transplant immunology has primarily focused on the definition of mechanisms, but an often-stated aspirational goal is to translate basic mechanistic research into future therapy. Pretransplant donor-specific antibodies (DSA) mediate hyperacute as well as early antibody-mediated rejection (AMR), whereas DSA developing late posttransplantation may additionally mediate chronic rejection. Although contemporary immunosuppression effectively prevents early cellular rejection after transplant in nonsensitized patients, it is less effective at controlling preexisting HLA antibody responses or reversing DSA once established, thus underscoring a need for better therapies.

Recent findings

We here review the development of a bench-to-bedside approach involving transient proteasome inhibition to deplete plasma cells, combined with maintenance co-stimulation blockade, with CTLA-4Ig or belatacept, to prevent the generation of new antibody-secreting cells (ASCs).

This review discusses how this treatment regimen, which was rationally designed and validated to reverse established DSA responses in mouse models, translated into reversing active AMR in the clinic, as well as desensitizing highly sensitized patients on the transplant waitlist.
Regulatory and transitional B cells: potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in organ transplantation
Authors: Cherukuri Aravind , Rothstein David M.
Published: August 2022

Purpose of the review

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) play a prominent role in various disease settings. While progress has been hindered by the lack of a specific Breg marker, new findings highlight their role modulating the alloimmune response and promoting allograft survival.

Recent findings

Herein, we focus on the recent advances in Breg biology and their role in transplantation. We review studies showing that T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 1 (TIM-1) is an inclusive and functional Breg marker in mice that may have human relevance. We highlight the utility of the B cell interleukin-10/tumor necrosis factor-alpha (IL-10/TNFα) ratio in identifying underlying immunological reactivity and predicting clinical outcomes in kidney transplantation. This may identify patients requiring more immunosuppression and provide insight into potential therapeutic approaches that can modulate the Breg: B effector cell (Beff) balance.

Emerging data support Bregs as potent modulators of immune responses in humans. Their ability to promote allograft survival must await development of approaches to expand Bregs in vitro/in vivo. The low IL-10/TNFα ratio reflecting decreased Breg/Beff balance, predicts acute rejection (AR) and poorer outcomes in renal transplantation. It remains to be determined whether this paradigm can be extended to other allografts and whether therapy aiming to correct the relative deficiency of Bregs will improve outcomes.
Preserving and rejuvenating old organs for transplantation: novel treatments including the potential of senolytics
Authors: Matsunaga Tomohisa , Roesel Maximilian J. , Schroeter Andreas , Xiao Yao , Zhou Hao , Tullius Stefan G.
Published: August 2022

Purpose of review

Older donors have the potential to close the gap between demand and supply in solid organs transplantation. Utilizing older organs, at the same time, has been associated with worse short- and long-term outcomes. Here, we introduce potential mechanisms on how treatments during machine perfusion (MP) may safely improve the utilization of older organs.

Recent findings

Consequences of ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI), a process of acute, sterile inflammation leading to organ injury are more prominent in older organs. Of relevance, organ age and IRI seem to act synergistically, leading to an increase of damage associated molecular patterns that trigger innate and adaptive immune responses. While cold storage has traditionally been considered the standard of care in organ preservation, accumulating data support that both hypothermic and normothermic MP improve organ quality, particularly in older organs. Furthermore, MP provides the opportunity to assess the quality of organs while adding therapeutic agents. Experimental data have already demonstrated the potential of applying treatments during MP. New experimental show that the depletion of senescent cells that accumulate in old organs improves organ quality and transplant outcomes.

As the importance of expanding the donor pool is increasing, MP and novel treatments bear the potential to assess and regenerate older organs, narrowing the gap between demand and supply.
Ranking of Snack Attributes Among Parents in a Minority Community
Authors: Rusmevichientong Pimbucha , Chandler Laura , Nguyen Kristie , Jaynes Jessica
Published: August 2022

Parents play a critical role in snack selection among younger children. Given the prevalence of childhood obesity and the critical role parents play was their children's eating behaviors, the purpose of this study was to explore parents' ranking of snack nutritional ingredients and snack factors. One hundred thirty-three parents of elementary school students from a predominately Asian and Hispanic population participated in the study. The results indicated that the “nutritional ingredient”, protein, had the highest weighted average rank, followed by whole grain, calories, sugar, and salt. Among the snack factors, healthiness had the highest weighted average rank, followed by taste, convenience, price, and social influence. The findings from this study can enhance children's healthy eating behaviors at home by lending better understanding of the snack attributes related to parents' choices. In addition, these findings provide implications for health and nutrition professionals in the field.
Are Plant-Based Meat Alternative Products Healthier Than the Animal Meats They Mimic?
Authors: Harnack Lisa J. , Reese Melanie M. , Johnson Abigail J.
Published: August 2022

Are plant-based meat alternative products healthier than the animal meats they mimic? There is no simple answer to this question because these products have both nutritional strengths and shortcomings. On the plus side, most are a good source of dietary fiber and contain less saturated fat and cholesterol in comparison to the animal meats they mimic. In addition, most contain iron in amounts comparable to the animal products they are designed to replace. As for shortcomings, plant-based meat alternative products generally contain less protein, zinc, and vitamin B12 than animal meats. Most also contain sodium in high amounts. Products can vary greatly in their nutrient content, which means consumers should read nutrition facts labels to choose a product that best aligns with their health and nutrition goals.
Positivity and Risk Factors for Trichomonas vaginalis Among Women Attending a Sexual Health Clinic in Melbourne, 2006 to 2019
Authors: Abraham Esha , Fairley Christopher K. , Denham Ian , Bradshaw Catriona S. , Farquharson Rebecca M. , Vodstrcil Lenka A. , Plummer Erica L. , Ong Jason J. , Chen Marcus Y. , Phillips Tiffany R. , Chow Eric P.F.
Published: August 2022

Background

Trichomonas vaginalis is not a notifiable disease in Australia in most states, resulting in limited Australian epidemiological studies. This study aimed to examine the positivity of T. vaginalis in women attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) and identify associated factors.

Methods

All women 16 years or older who were tested for T. vaginalis at MSHC from 2006 to 2019 were included. The diagnostic method changed from culture to nucleic acid amplification test in August 2018. The annual positivity of T. vaginalis was calculated. Because of the data completeness, we performed a generalized estimating equations multivariable logistic regression using data from 2011 to 2019 to examine factors associated with T. vaginalis positivity.

Results

From 2006 to 2019, 69,739 tests for T. vaginalis were conducted, and 294 tested positive (0.42%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.37%–0.47%). Approximately 60% of women tested reported symptoms. After adjusting for potential confounders including the change in diagnostic method, there was a 21% (95% CI, 12%–31%) annual increase in T. vaginalis positivity between 2011 and 2019. Women with concurrent syphilis had the highest odds of testing positive for T. vaginalis (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 21.55; 95% CI, 6.96–66.78), followed by women who had injected drugs in the last 12 months (aOR, 6.99; 95% CI, 4.11–11.87), were 35 years or older (aOR, 3.47; 95% CI, 2.26–5.35), or had concurrent chlamydia (aOR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.05–2.99).

Conclusions

The rising positivity of T. vaginalis at MSHC irrespective of change in diagnostic method suggests a concurrent community-wide rise in Melbourne. Given the rising positivity, testing informed by risk factors should be considered.
Mechanisms linking gender-based violence to worse HIV treatment and care outcomes among women in the United States
Authors: Jain Jennifer P. , Sheira Lila A. , Frongillo Edward A. , Neilands Torsten B. , Cohen Mardge H. , Wilson Tracey E. , Chandran Aruna , Adimora Adaora A. , Kassaye Seble G. , Sheth Anandi N. , Fischl Margaret A. , Adedimeji Adebola A. , Turan Janet M. , Tien Phyllis C. , Weiser Sheri D. , Conroy Amy A.
Published: August 2022

Objective:

To test whether substance use mediates the associations between gender-based violence (GBV) and suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and GBV and poor engagement in care, among women living with HIV (WLHIV) in the United States (US).

Design:

We analyzed longitudinal data collected among 1717 WLHIV in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS).

Methods:

From 2013 to 2017, WLHIV completed semi-annual assessments on GBV, substance use, and HIV treatment and care. Adjusted multilevel logistic regression models were built to estimate the impact of GBV on; suboptimal (<95%) adherence and at least one missed HIV care appointment without rescheduling in the past 6 months. Mediation analyses were performed to test whether heavy drinking and illicit drug use mediated the associations between GBV and the two HIV outcomes.

Results:

The mean age was 47 (standard deviation = 9), 5% reported experiencing GBV, 17% reported suboptimal adherence and 15% reported at least one missed appointment in the past 6 months. Women who experienced GBV had a significantly higher odds of suboptimal adherence [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.99; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.40–2.83] and missed appointments (aOR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.32–2.33). Heavy drinking and illicit drug use mediated 36 and 73% of the association between GBV and suboptimal adherence and 29 and 65% of the association between GBV and missed appointments, respectively.

Conclusions:

Substance use is an underlying mechanism through which GBV affects outcomes along the HIV care continuum among WLHIV in the US. To optimize HIV treatment and care among women, interventions should address the combined epidemics of substance use, violence, and HIV.
Maternal–foetal transfer of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 antibodies among women with and those without HIV infection
Authors: Nunes Marta C. , Jones Stephanie , Ditse Zanele , da Silva Kelly , Serafin Natali , Strehlau Renate , Wise Amy , Burke Megan , Baba Vuyelwa , Baillie Vicky L. , Nzimande Ayanda , Jafta Nwabisa , Adam Mary , Mlandu Philiswa , Melamu Mpolokeng , Phelp Juliette , Feldman Charles , Adam Yasmin , Madhi Shabir A. , Kwatra Gaurav
Published: August 2022

In pregnant women, antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein cross the placenta and can be detected in cord-blood at the time of delivery. We measured SARS-CoV-2 full-length antispike IgG in blood samples collected from women living with HIV (WLWHIV) and without HIV when presenting for labour, and from paired cord-blood samples. Antispike IgG was measured in maternal blood at delivery on the Luminex platform. Cord-blood samples from newborns of women in with detectable antispike IgG were analysed. The IgG geometric mean concentrations (GMCs) and the percentage of cord-blood samples with detectable antispike IgG were compared between WLWHIV and without HIV. A total of 184 maternal and cord-blood pairs were analysed, including 47 WLWHIV and 137 without HIV. There was no difference in antispike GMCs between WLWHIV and without HIV [157 binding antibody units (BAU)/ml vs. 187 BAU/ml; P = 0.17)]. Cord-blood samples from newborns of WLWHIV had lower GMCs compared with those without HIV (143 vs. 205 BAU/ml; P = 0.033). Cord-to-maternal blood antibody ratio was 1.0 and similar between the two HIV groups. In WLWHIV, those who were 30 years old or less had lower cord-to-maternal blood antibody ratio (0.75 vs. 1.10; P = 0.037) and their newborns had lower cord-blood GMCs (94 vs. 194 BAU/ml; P = 0.04) compared with the older women. Independently of maternal HIV infection status, there was efficient transplacental transfer of antispike antibodies. The GMCs in cord-blood from newborns of WLWHIV were lower than those in HIV-unexposed newborns.
Aesthetic Outcome of Primary Rhinoplasty of Saddle Nose Deformity in Naso-Orbital Ethmoidal Fractures in Asian Patients
Authors: Lu Ting-Chen , Mohammed Shadad M. , Liao Han-Tsung
Published: August 2022

Background:

Saddle nose deformity following naso-orbital ethmoidal (NOE) fractures remain a challenging problem for the reconstructive surgeon. Early reduction and internal fixation allow for fracture stabilization but is unable to address the problem of the depressed nasal dorsum, especially after soft tissue shrinkage. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcome of primary rhinoplasty in patients with NOE fractures.

Materials and Methods:

From 2016 to 2019, 9 patients presented to our department with NOE fractures complicated by saddle nose deformity underwent primary nasal reconstruction at the time of their fracture fixation. Life size (1:1) frontal and lateral postoperative photographs were taken. Three objective measurements were made, including the nasofrontal angle, tip projection, and radix projection. These measurements were compared between normal persons (group 1), preoperative patients (group 2), and postoperative patients (group 3). Nose aesthetic assessment was carried out via a panel assessment using a Visual Analog Scale of 5. Patient satisfaction was further assessed subjectively by the patient themselves using the Visual Analog Scale.

Results:

When comparing group 3 to 2, a significant reduction in the nasofrontal angles was found with an accompanying increase in the radix and tip projection (P<0.05). No statistical significance between normal persons and postprimary rhinoplasty patients was noted between groups 1 and 3. Average patient satisfaction scored 3.86±1.07 compared with 3.63±0.84 by laypersons and 4±0.77 by specialists’ panel.

Conclusion:

Primary nasal reconstruction may be an alternative method for achieving optimum results following NOE fractures preventing the development of secondary saddle nose deformity with a shortened nose which may potentially be more difficult to correct.