bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal assessment of social attention in preterm and term infants: Its relation to social communication and language outcome
Authors: Imafuku Masahiro , Kawai Masahiko , Niwa Fusako , Shinya Yuta , Myowa Masako
Published: April 2021

Preterm birth has been reported to be associated with an increased risk of social communication and language problems. Recently, we found that preterm infants showed atypical patterns of social attention compared with term infants. However, it is still unknown how social attention develops and whether the individual differences are associated with developmental outcomes for social communication and language in preterm infants. The social attention of preterm and term infants at 6, 12, and 18 months was investigated using two types of social attention tasks (human‐geometric preference task and gaze‐following task). The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M‐CHAT) and the MacArthur Communicative Development Inventory adapted for Japanese were measured at 18 months. We found that compared with term infants, preterm infants spent less time looking toward dynamic human images and followed another's gaze directions less frequently through 6, 12, and 18 months. Moreover, hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that less preference for dynamic human images and gaze‐following abilities was associated with high M‐CHAT and low language scores in preterm and term infants, respectively. These findings suggest that birth status affects development of social attention through 18 months and individual differences in social attention reflect differences in social communication and language outcomes.
Cardioneuroablation for cardioinhibitory vasovagal syncope
Authors: John Leah A. , Mullis Andin , Payne Joshua , Tung Roderick , Aksu Tolga , Winterfield Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2021

Background

Cardioneuroablation (CNA) is an emerging technique being used to treat patients with cardioinhibitory vasovagal syncope (VVS). We describe a case of CNA in targeting atrial ganglionated plexi (GP) based upon anatomical landmarks and fractionated electrogram (EGM) localization in a patient with cardioinhibitory syncope.

Case Presentation

A 20‐year‐old healthy female presented with malignant VVS and symptomatic sinus pauses, with the longest detected at 10 s. She underwent acutely successful CNA with demonstration of vagal response (VR) noted after ablation of left sided GP, and tachycardia noted with right sided GP ablation. All GP sites were defined by anatomical landmarks and EGM analysis. By using the fractionation mapping software of Ensite Precision mapping system with high density mapping, fragmented EGMs were successfully detected in each GP site. One month after vagal denervation, there were no recurrent syncopal episodes or sinus pauses. Longer term follow‐up with implantable loop recorder is planned.

Conclusion

We performed CNA in a patient with VVS by utilizing a novel approach of combined use of high density mapping and fractionation mapping software. With this approach, we were able to detect fractionation in all GP sites and demonstrate acute VR. This workflow may allow for a new, standardized technique suitable for widespread use.
Time and Accuracy of the CEREC Omnicam Using Two Different Software Programs
Authors: Porr Douglas A. , Brooks Daniel I. , Liacouras Peter C. , Petrich Anton , Ellert Daniel O. , Ye Ling
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of software on scan time, trueness, and precision of digital scans created using the CEREC Omnicam.

Material and methods

Sixty scans (20 scans/provider) of a standard reference cast were made by three different providers using the CEREC Omnicam with both CEREC Ortho 1.2.1 software (10 scans/provider) and CEREC SW 4.4.4 software (10 scans/provider). A digital full arch scan and the time to complete each scan were recorded. Trueness was calculated by overlaying the digital scans against a reference file created using the standard reference cast and a laboratory‐based, white light, 3‐dimensional scanner. Precision was calculated by overlaying each of digital scans against each other, using each scan as a reference. The non‐parametric Mann‐Whitney U‐test was used to determine significant differences attributable to scanning software for each provider.

Results

The CEREC Ortho 1.2.1 software required a longer scan time than the CEREC SW 4.4.4 software for each provider (∼1 minute). No significant difference in trueness was observed within one provider. Two individual providers had higher precision when scanning with the CEREC Ortho 1.2.1 software than the CEREC SW 4.4.4 software.

Conclusion

Software and scan strategy may affect the accuracy of complete‐arch scans. The CEREC Ortho 1.2.1 software may demonstrate a speed‐accuracy tradeoff, with generally longer scan times and possibly more precise scans.
The genetic architecture and population genomic signatures of glyphosate resistance in Amaranthus tuberculatus
Authors: Kreiner Julia M. , Tranel Patrick J. , Weigel Detlef , Stinchcombe John R. , Wright Stephen I.
Published: April 2021

Much of what we know about the genetic basis of herbicide resistance has come from detailed investigations of monogenic adaptation at known target‐sites, despite the increasingly recognized importance of polygenic resistance. Little work has been done to characterize the broader genomic basis of herbicide resistance, including the number and distribution of genes involved, their effect sizes, allele frequencies and signatures of selection. In this work, we implemented genome‐wide association (GWA) and population genomic approaches to examine the genetic architecture of glyphosate (Round‐up) resistance in the problematic agricultural weed Amaranthus tuberculatus. A GWA was able to correctly identify the known target‐gene but statistically controlling for two causal target‐site mechanisms revealed an additional 250 genes across all 16 chromosomes associated with non‐target‐site resistance (NTSR). The encoded proteins had functions that have been linked to NTSR, the most significant of which is response to chemicals, but also showed pleiotropic roles in reproduction and growth. Compared to an empirical null that accounts for complex population structure, the architecture of NTSR was enriched for large effect sizes and low allele frequencies, suggesting the role of pleiotropic constraints on its evolution. The enrichment of rare alleles also suggested that the genetic architecture of NTSR may be population‐specific and heterogeneous across the range. Despite their rarity, we found signals of recent positive selection on NTSR‐alleles by both window‐ and haplotype‐based statistics, and an enrichment of amino acid changing variants. In our samples, genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms explain a comparable amount of the total variation in glyphosate resistance to monogenic mechanisms, even in a collection of individuals where 80% of resistant individuals have large‐effect TSR mutations, indicating an underappreciated polygenic contribution to the evolution of herbicide resistance in weed populations.
Comparative efficacy of different weight loss treatments on knee osteoarthritis: A network meta‐analysis
Authors: Panunzi Simona , Maltese Sabina , De Gaetano Andrea , Capristo Esmeralda , Bornstein Stefan R. , Mingrone Geltrude
Published: April 2021

The lifetime risk of developing symptomatic knee osteoarthritis is 60% in subjects with obesity. It is unclear which is the best weight loss interventions leading to a meaningful improvement of osteoarthritis symptoms and clinical conditions in subjects with obesity. Our network meta‐analysis compares different weight loss interventions on the improvement of osteoarthritis symptoms and clinical conditions in subjects affected by obesity. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for eligible studies until November 2020. Thirty eligible studies comprising 4651 adults (74.6% women) were included. The most effective interventions reducing pain were bariatric surgery, low‐calorie diet and exercise, and intensive weight loss and exercise (−62.7 [95% CrI: −74.6, −50.6]; −34.4 [95% CrI: −48.1, −19.5]; −27.1 [95% CrI: −40.4, −13.6] respectively). For every 1% weight loss Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) pain, function, and stiffness scores decreased by about 2% points. In conclusion, our meta‐analysis shows that a substantial weight loss is necessary to reduce significantly knee pain and joint stiffness and to improve physical function: 25% weight reduction from baseline is necessary to obtain a 50% reduction of each subscale of the WOMAC score. However, performing physical exercise is essential to preserve the lean body mass and to avoid sarcopenia. Our results apply to a large spectrum of body mass index (BMI), from overweight to severe obesity.
Obesity, but not hyperandrogenism or insulin resistance, predicts skeletal muscle mass in reproductive‐aged women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of 45 observational studies
Authors: Kazemi Maryam , Pierson Roger A. , Parry Stephen A. , Kaviani Mojtaba , Chilibeck Philip D.
Published: April 2021

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) exhibit reduced muscle insulin‐mediated glucose uptake, potentially attributed to altered muscle mass; however, this is inconclusive. Altered muscle mass may aggravate PCOS complications. Our systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluated whether PCOS alters muscle mass and function. Databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus) were searched through September 2, 2020, for studies documenting skeletal muscle mass (lean tissue mass) and function (strength) in PCOS and control groups. The primary outcome was total lean body mass (LBM) or fat‐free mass (FFM). Data were pooled by random‐effects models and expressed as mean differences and 95% confidence intervals. Forty‐five studies (n = 3676 participants) were eligible. Women with PCOS had increased total (0.83 [0.08,1.58] kg; p = 0.03; I2 = 72.0%) yet comparable trunk (0.84 [−0.37,2.05] kg; p = 0.15; I2 = 73.0%) LBM or FFM versus controls. Results of meta‐regression analyses showed no associations between mean differences between groups in total testosterone or homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance and total or trunk LBM or FFM (All: p ≥ 0.75). Mean differences in body mass index (BMI) were associated with total (0.65 [0.23,1.06] kg; p < 0.01; I2 = 56.9%) and trunk (0.56 [0.11,1.01] kg; p = 0.02; I2 = 42.8%) LBM or FFM. The PCOS subgroup with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 had greater total LBM or FFM versus controls (1.58 [0.82,2.34] kg; p < 0.01; I2 = 64.0%) unlike the PCOS subgroup with BMI < 25 kg/m2 (−0.45 [−1.94,1.05] kg; p = 0.53; I2 = 69.5%). Appendicular lean mass and muscle strength data were contradictory and described narratively, as meta‐analyses were impossible. Women with PCOS have higher total and trunk lean tissue mass attributed to overweight/obesity, unlike hyperandrogenism or insulin resistance.
The relative benefits of nonattachment to self and self‐compassion for psychological distress and psychological well‐being for those with and without symptoms of depression
Authors: Whitehead Richard , Bates Glen , Elphinstone Brad , Yang Yan
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Self‐compassion represents a way of interacting with the self involving kindness and a balanced approach to negative self‐related stimuli that has shown to contribute to reduced depression, anxiety and stress, and increased psychological well‐being. Due to the potential barriers towards self‐compassion for people with depressive symptoms, the objective of the present study what to investigate whether the emerging construct of ‘nonattachment to self’, which reflects a flexible and balanced approach to all self‐related stimuli, may be more beneficial for positive psychological outcomes than self‐compassion, for individuals with depressive symptoms.

Method

A sample 388 participants (consisting of 71 men, 317 women) aged from 18 to 77 (M = 35.33, SD = 10.81) completed an online questionnaire measuring levels of self‐compassion, nonattachment to self, depressive symptoms, and well‐being.

Results

Higher levels of both nonattachment to self and self‐compassion were related to reduced psychological distress and increased psychological well‐being. However, for people with at least mild depressive symptoms, nonattachment to self was found to be a stronger predictor of reduced psychological distress and increased psychological well‐being than self‐compassion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the present study suggests both nonattachment to self and self‐compassion are associated with better mental health in non‐clinical populations. Further, for individuals experiencing at least mild symptoms of depression, self‐compassion may be less beneficial than taking a more nonattached stance towards the self. The findings have implications for the way we conceptualize self‐focused attention and suggest assisting individuals to let go of their fixated, self‐focused attention may be especially beneficial for individuals with depressive symptoms.

Practitioner points

The notion of letting of attachment to the separate static self lies at the core of Buddhist psychological teachings and recent research suggests it can have a positive impact on individuals psychological well‐being and ill‐being

Given the barriers to self‐compassion experienced by individuals with depressive symptoms, nonattachment to self may represent a healthy interaction with the self than is met with less resistance than self‐compassion.

Due to the balanced stance of nonattachment to self towards positive and negative self‐related stimuli, it may be prove to be a valuable approach to treating individuals who feel conflict with taking any form of positive or kind stance towards the self.
Identifying and validating SSR markers linked with rust resistance in lentil (Lens culinaris)
Authors: Singh Jatinder , Sirari Asmita , Singh Harpreet , Kumar Ashok , Jaidka Manpreet , Mandahal Kamalpreet S. , Kumar Shiv , Singh Sarvjeet
Published: April 2021

Recombinant inbred lines (RILs) developed from a cross between rust resistant (FLIP‐2004‐7L) and susceptible (L‐9–12) genotypes were phenotyped against lentil rust at two hot‐spot locations for two consecutive years (2017–2018 and 2018–2019) and analysed genetically for molecular map construction. Based on the mean score of both the locations, the RILs were classified into resistant and susceptible classes. The frequency distribution of disease severity in the RILs did not show a continuous variation, which strongly indicate the role of a major gene controlling the rust resistance. Resistant and susceptible bulks were constituted based on phenotypic data of RILs. Of 389 SSR markers, eight were found polymorphic between bulks. Genotyping of RILs with these eight markers revealed two markers, namely LcSSR440 and LcSSR606, showing co‐segregation with rust resistance, which flanked the gene at 8.3 and 8.1cM, respectively. The applicability of these markers for marker‐assisted breeding was further evaluated on a set of rust resistant and susceptible genotypes of lentil.
Types of dental procedures provided to adults with autism spectrum condition: A descriptive study
Authors: Dumbuya Aminata , Comnick Carissa , Xie Xian Jin , Marchini Leonardo
Published: April 2021

Purpose/aim

To investigate demographic and systemic health characteristics, and the types of dental procedures performed for adults with autism that had sought care at a dental school.

Materials and methods

De‐identified data were collected from the records of patients aged 18+ who have self‐reported autism. Each patient's age, gender, BMI, mental health, heart disease, xerostomia, tobacco use, alcohol use, diabetes, use of drugs, seizures, and total number of medications, as well as the type and number of dental codes used in the care of that patient within each code category were included as variables.

Results

The sample was composed by 244 patients. Mean age was 29.8 years (±12.3), 64.8% were males, and mean BMI was 29.9 (±8.1). Mental health condition was reported by 79.9%, heart disease by 25.4%, xerostomia by 21.7%, 20.9% reported using tobacco, 18.9% reported using alcohol, 14.8% reported having diabetes, 10.2% reported using drugs, and 3.7% reported having seizures. The median number of dental procedures per patient was nine, and exams, preventive, operative, and surgical procedures were the most common ones.

Conclusions

Adult patients with autism were overweight/obese young males. Most common dental procedures were exams, followed by preventive, operative, and surgical procedures.
La herencia clásica como instrumento para comprender a Dios. Clemente de Alejandría, Stromata V (89,1–100,4)
Authors: Calabrese Claudio César
Published: April 2021

Desde un enfoque interpretativo presentamos los resultados de lectura de Stromata V (89,1– 100,4) de Clemente de Alejandría, en orden a considerar la herencia clásica como instrumento para profundizar la comprensión de Dios. Nos interesa mostrar la correlación entre la secuencia griega-judía y los textos bíblicos y, al mismo tiempo, plantear la continuidad, no exenta de dificultades, entre la peculiar noción de lo divino de la tradición helénica y la concepción increada de naturaleza, que implica la paulatina identificación de las nociones griegas de physis y theós. Según el método de lectura de Clemente, hacemos el análisis de los textos griegos esclarecidos a partir del Antiguo Testamento y viceversa, para concluir en su convicción personal –en el marco del cristianismo primitivo– de que los cristianos son herederos de toda apertura de Dios al mundo. Para alcanzar esta conclusión, Clemente argumenta, en sede platónica, desde una perspectiva a la vez antropológica (el hombre puede asimilarse a Dios progresivamente, a partir de su disposición natural a la vida virtuosa) y cristológica (“todo proviene del único Maestro”). Por ello, en la interpretación de nuestro autor, la revelación ha resignificado la historia humana también desde una perspectiva metafísica, pues Cristo ha incorporado la humanidad a la historia, en un sentido completamente nuevo, en cuanto fundamenta providencialmente la cultura pagana. En la perspectiva de Stromata, esto es posible porque desde el origen se manifiesta un modo artístico de interpretar al hombre en su relación con la divinidad: el saber mítico y filosófico de los griegos sobre Dios había sido, por ello mismo, también teológico, en cuanto resultaba manifiesto en el cosmos. Este modelo hermenéutico se mostrará, desde el comienzo, en revisión y en crisis, porque la persona de Cristo podrá quedar oculta, desde la perspectiva de nuestro entendimiento, por la necesaria referencia cósmica.
Researchers face attacks from Bolsonaro regime
Authors: Escobar Herton
Published: April 2021

Harassment, budget cuts leave many fearing for their jobs and safety.
An intercrypt subpopulation of goblet cells is essential for colonic mucus barrier function
Authors: Nyström Elisabeth E. L. , Martinez-Abad Beatriz , Arike Liisa , Birchenough George M. H. , Nonnecke Eric B. , Castillo Patricia A. , Svensson Frida , Bevins Charles L. , Hansson Gunnar C. , Johansson Malin E. V.
Published: April 2021

Goblet cell diversity

An adult human has a gut surface area averaging 30 square meters that is bombarded daily by xenobiotics and microorganisms. Mucus synthesized by goblet cells supplies a protective barrier coating. Nyström
et al.
discovered that goblet cells are not all the same along the length of the gut; rather, they form different functional populations depending on location. Small-intestine mucus is laced with antimicrobial peptides and is permeable to small molecules; downstream, thicker mucus is generated that excludes bacteria and xenobiotics. Mucus oozes in thick plumes from goblet cells within the crypts to shield the stem cell niche. Between the crypts lie highly differentiated goblet cells producing permeable mucus. Together, both types of mucus form a network that shelters the gut epithelium. If, however, the intercrypt goblet cells become dysfunctional, the exposed epithelium is exposed to bacteria and vulnerable to developing colitis.

Science
, this issue p.
eabb1590
Nematicity and competing orders in superconducting magic-angle graphene
Authors: Cao Yuan , Rodan-Legrain Daniel , Park Jeong Min , Yuan Noah F. Q. , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Fernandes Rafael M. , Fu Liang , Jarillo-Herrero Pablo
Published: April 2021

Twisted and nematic

Electrons in quantum materials can break rotational symmetry even when the underlying crystal lattice does not. This phenomenon, called nematicity, has been observed in many unconventional superconductors. Cao
et al.
found that magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene, in which superconductivity was recently discovered, also exhibits nematicity. The breaking of rotational symmetry was observed through transport measurements, which exhibited characteristic anisotropy.

Science
, this issue p.
264
Unearthing Neanderthal population history using nuclear and mitochondrial DNA from cave sediments
Authors: Vernot Benjamin , Zavala Elena I. , Gómez-Olivencia Asier , Jacobs Zenobia , Slon Viviane , Mafessoni Fabrizio , Romagné Frédéric , Pearson Alice , Petr Martin , Sala Nohemi , Pablos Adrián , Aranburu Arantza , de Castro José María Bermúdez , Carbonell Eudald , Li Bo , Krajcarz Maciej T. , Krivoshapkin Andrey I. , Kolobova Kseniya A. , Kozlikin Maxim B. , Shunkov Michael V. , Derevianko Anatoly P. , Viola Bence , Grote Steffi , Essel Elena , Herráez David López , Nagel Sarah , Nickel Birgit , Richter Julia , Schmidt Anna , Peter Benjamin , Kelso Janet , Roberts Richard G. , Arsuaga Juan-Luis , Meyer Matthias
Published: April 2021

The value of dirty DNA

Environmental DNA can identify the presence of species, even from the distant past. Surveying three cave sites in western Europe and southern Siberia, Vernot
et al.
identified nuclear DNA and confirmed that it is from the close relatives of anatomically modern humans—Neanderthal and Denisovan individuals. A phylogenetic analysis and modeling show that the DNA in sediment samples from several layers corresponds to previously studied skeletal remains. These results demonstrate that environmental data can be applied to study the population genetics of the extinct Neanderthal and Denisovan lineages, identifying a turnover of Neanderthal populations ∼100,000 years ago.

Science
, this issue p.
eabf1667
Carbon loss from boreal forest wildfires offset by increased dominance of deciduous trees
Authors: Mack Michelle C. , Walker Xanthe J. , Johnstone Jill F. , Alexander Heather D. , Melvin April M. , Jean Mélanie , Miller Samantha N.
Published: April 2021

Carbon cycling after boreal forest fire

Wildfire activity has been increasing in the boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere, releasing carbon into the atmosphere from biomass and soil, with potential feedback to climate warming. In a long-term study, Mack
et al.
analyzed wildfire impacts on the carbon balance of boreal forest in Alaska, with particular focus on forest-regeneration patterns. After fire, the species composition in most of the study sites changed from black spruce to a mixture of conifers and deciduous broadleaf tree species. The stands that had shifted to deciduous dominance stored fivefold more soil carbon than stands that returned to black spruce dominance. Therefore, the functional traits of deciduous trees compensated for the combustion loss of soil carbon, pointing to a potential mitigation of the feedback effect of boreal forest fire to climate warming.

Science
, this issue p.
280
Neuropixels 2.0: A miniaturized high-density probe for stable, long-term brain recordings
Authors: Steinmetz Nicholas A. , Aydin Cagatay , Lebedeva Anna , Okun Michael , Pachitariu Marius , Bauza Marius , Beau Maxime , Bhagat Jai , Böhm Claudia , Broux Martijn , Chen Susu , Colonell Jennifer , Gardner Richard J. , Karsh Bill , Kloosterman Fabian , Kostadinov Dimitar , Mora-Lopez Carolina , O’Callaghan John , Park Junchol , Putzeys Jan , Sauerbrei Britton , van Daal Rik J. J. , Vollan Abraham Z. , Wang Shiwei , Welkenhuysen Marleen , Ye Zhiwen , Dudman Joshua T. , Dutta Barundeb , Hantman Adam W. , Harris Kenneth D. , Lee Albert K. , Moser Edvard I. , O’Keefe John , Renart Alfonso , Svoboda Karel , Häusser Michael , Haesler Sebastian , Carandini Matteo , Harris Timothy D.
Published: April 2021

Recording many neurons for a long time

The ultimate aim of chronic recordings is to sample from the same neuron over days and weeks. However, this goal has been difficult to achieve for large populations of neurons. Steinmetz
et al.
describe the development and testing of Neuropixels 2.0. This new electrophysiological recording tool is a miniaturized, high-density probe for both acute and long-term experiments combined with sophisticated software algorithms for fully automatic post hoc computational stabilization. The technique also provides a strategy for extending the number of recorded sites beyond the number of available recording channels. In freely moving animals, extremely large numbers of individual neurons could thus be followed and tracked with the same probe for weeks and occasionally months.

Science
, this issue p.
eabf4588
Structure reveals the activation mechanism of the MC4 receptor to initiate satiation signaling
Authors: Israeli Hadar , Degtjarik Oksana , Fierro Fabrizio , Chunilal Vidicha , Gill Amandeep Kaur , Roth Nicolas J. , Botta Joaquin , Prabahar Vadivel , Peleg Yoav , Chan Li F. , Ben-Zvi Danny , McCormick Peter J. , Niv Masha Y. , Shalev-Benami Moran
Published: April 2021

To eat or not to eat

Melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R) plays a role in regulating food intake: Its activation by a stimulating hormone inhibits appetite, whereas binding to a natural antagonist promotes appetite. Complementing a recent structure of MC4R in an inactive conformation, Israeli
et al.
present the structure bound to setmelanotide, a weight-control drug, and its G protein–signaling partner (see the Perspective by Farooqi). This work reveals the mechanism of MC4R activation and explains why setmelanotide acts as a potent agonist, whereas a structurally similar compound, SHU9119, is an inhibitor. The structure also provides insight into the contribution of mutations in MCR4 to weight-regulation disorders.

Science
, abf7958, this issue p.
808
; see also abi8942, p.
792
The KbvR Regulator Contributes to Capsule Production, Outer Membrane Protein Biosynthesis, Antiphagocytosis, and Virulence in Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Xu Li , Wang Meng , Yuan Jie , Wang Hui , Li Moran , Zhang Fusheng , Tian Yujiao , Yang Jing , Wang Jingjie , Li Bei
Published: April 2021

Klebsiella pneumoniae
is an opportunistic pathogen that mostly affects patients with weakened immune systems, but a few serotypes (especially K1 and K2) are highly invasive and result in systemic infection in healthy persons. The ability to evade and survive the components of the innate immune system is critical in infection. To investigate the role and mechanism of transcription regulator KP1_RS12260 (KbvR) in virulence and defense against the innate immune response,
kbvR
deletion mutant and complement strains were constructed. The
in vivo
animal infection assay and
in vitro
antiphagocytosis assay demonstrate
K. pneumoniae
KbvR is an important regulator that contributes to virulence and the defense against phagocytosis of macrophages.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae Genotypes and Clinical Outcome in Children
Authors: Meyer Sauteur Patrick M. , Pánisová Elena , Seiler Michelle , Theiler Martin , Berger Christoph , Dumke Roger
Published: April 2021

Factors leading to the wide range of manifestations associated with
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
infection are unclear. We investigated whether
M. pneumoniae
genotypes are associated with specific clinical outcomes.
Cyclic AMP-Dependent Protein Kinase Exhibits Antagonistic Effects on the Replication Efficiency of Different Human Papillomavirus Types
Authors: Lototskaja Elina , Sahharov Olga , Piirsoo Marko , Kala Martin , Ustav Mart , Piirsoo Alla
Published: April 2021

Several types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are causative agents of various types of epithelial cancers. Here, we report that ubiquitously expressed cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) differentially regulates the replication of various types of HPVs during the initial amplification and maintenance phases of the viral life cycle.
Feline Calicivirus Proteinase-Polymerase Protein Degrades mRNAs To Inhibit Host Gene Expression
Authors: Wu Hongxia , Huang Jiapei , Liu Yongxiang , Pan Yudi , Li Yin , Miao Qian , Qu Liandong , Tian Jin
Published: April 2021

Virus infection-induced shutoff is the result of targeted or global manipulation of cellular gene expression and leads to efficient viral replication and immune evasion. FCV is a highly contagious pathogen that persistently infects cats.
Supplemental Material: Reconstructing the tectono-sedimentary evolution of the Early–Middle Jurassic Tlaxiaco Basin in southern Mexico: New insights into the crustal attenuation history of southern North America during Pangea breakup
Authors: Zepeda-Martínez M. , al. et
Published: April 2021

File A: Point-counting raw data and recalculated parameters for whole-rock sandstone petrography. File B: Details of analytical methodology and analytical results for individual zircon ages.
Metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the colon: a conundrum in colorectal malignancies
Authors: Singhal Sachi , Singh Rohan Bir , Potdar Rashmika
Published: April 2021

Small-cell carcinoma of the colon is an extremely rare tumour, with poorly understood pathogenesis and unestablished treatment guidelines. The first case was documented in 1919, and only about 100 cases of this condition have been reported to this date. In this case report, we present a case of sigmoid squamous cell carcinoma that eventually led to bowel perforation and was diagnosed on histopathology after emergent surgical intervention. Additionally, we also review the incidence, epidemiology, pathogenesis, immunohistological markers, neogenomics and therapeutic strategies for the same.
Successful hysteroscopy and curettage of a caesarean scar ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Mo Roxana , Kalburgi Sujatha , Thakur Yatin , Jadhav Jitendra
Published: April 2021

Caesarean scar ectopic pregnancies are the rarest type of ectopic pregnancy. The optimum management regime is not yet established. We report the case of a 39-year-old woman who presented at 11 weeks gestation with painless vaginal bleeding, having had 2 previous caesarean sections. Ultrasound revealed a gestational sac within the caesarean scar niche. On follow-up, her serial ß human chorionic gonadotropin (ßHCG) measurements fell significantly. The woman initially opted for conservative management but subsequently required surgical management. Hysteroscopy demonstrated a sac within the caesarean scar which was successfully evacuated by ultrasound-guided suction curettage, with no complications. Caesarean scar ectopic pregnancies are becoming increasingly common. Diagnosis is primarily through ultrasound using specified criteria. Management may be conservative, medical or surgical excision depending on the clinical circumstances. Hysteroscopy and suction curettage is an effective therapeutic option for caesarean scar ectopic management.
Successful multidisciplinary treatment of Doege-Potter syndrome: hypoglycaemia caused by paraneoplastic IGF-2 production by a metastatic haemangiopericytoma
Authors: Tong Jeffery , Athayde Jonathan , MacKenzie Shawn , Ho Meghan
Published: April 2021

Hypoglycaemia due to insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-2 secretion is a paraneoplastic complication of malignancy with significant morbidity that can often go unrecognised due to its uncommon presentation. We report on a case of a 51-year-old man with metastatic haemangiopericytoma presenting with refractory hypoglycaemia, requiring continuous dextrose 10% infusion while in hospital. IGF-2 levels were significantly elevated, in keeping with a rare entity associated with solitary fibrous tumours, known as Doege-Potter syndrome. The patient was managed using uncooked cornstarch in conjunction with debulking of the hepatic tumour burden with bland IR-guided transarterial embolisation, and eventual surgical resection to treat his non-islet cell tumour hypoglycaemia (NICTH). The case highlights this rare paraneoplastic phenomenon that should be included in the differential for hypoglycaemia, especially if a history of a solitary fibrous tumour is elicited. Our case is the first to document a successful approach to treating the hypoglycaemia using preoperative transarterial bland embolisation.
Bilateral congenital pulmonary airway malformation in an extremely preterm infant
Authors: Chandrasekaran Preethi , Goergen Stacy , Robinson Alice , Moghimi Ali , Malhotra Atul
Published: April 2021

We present the case of a baby boy, with antenatal finding of bilateral enlarged echogenic lungs, who developed severe postnatal respiratory failure. Two important differential diagnoses, which have an impact on antenatal and postnatal management, are discussed. Fetal ultrasound, MRI and postmortem MRI images are presented and findings correlated with the autopsy findings.
A rare case of urachal adenocarcinoma with bone marrow metastasis
Authors: Van Allen Joshua
Published: April 2021

Urachal cancer is a rare and aggressive cancer that often presents in advanced stages. Given the rarity of this malignancy, medical case studies provide one of the few sources of literature available through which clinicians can guide medical management. Surgery is widely considered to be the mainstay of therapy when disease is localised and surgically resectable, therefore most current case studies on urachal cancer focus on surgical management, occasionally with adjuvant chemotherapy. However, few case studies discuss chemotherapy alone in the treatment of metastatic disease. Most studies indicate a median overall survival between 12 and 24 months for metastatic urachal adenocarcinoma. Bone marrow metastasis of solid tumours, when considered alone, portends a poor prognosis. The patient in this case study represents a rare case of stage IV urachal adenocarcinoma metastatic to the bone marrow without progression of disease after 6 months of treatment.
Review of glaucoma medication adherence monitoring in the digital health era
Authors: Erras Alaa , Shahrvini Bita , Weinreb Robert N , Baxter Sally L
Published: April 2021

Current glaucoma treatments aim to lower intraocular pressure, often with topical ocular hypotensive medications. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of these medications depends on sustained patient adherence to regimens which may involve instilling multiple medications several times daily. Patient adherence to glaucoma medications is often low. Recent innovations in digital sensor technologies have been leveraged to confirm eyedrop medication usage in real-time and relay this information back to providers. Some sensors have also been designed to deliver medication reminders and notifications as well as assist with correct eyedrop administration technique. Here, we review recent innovations targeted at improving glaucoma medication adherence and discuss their limitations.
Peaks of circumpapillary retinal nerve fibre layer and associations in healthy eyes: the Beijing Eye Study 2011
Authors: Zhang Qing , Xu Liang , Zhao Liang , Jonas Rahul A , Wang Ya Xing , Jonas Jost B
Published: April 2021

Aims

To investigate the distribution and associations of the circumpapillary retinal nerve fibre layer thickness (RNFLT) profile, characterised as peak height and peak position, in healthy eyes.

Methods

667 healthy participants (294 male) were randomly selected from the Beijing Eye Study 2011. RNFLT was measured at 768 points at 3.4 mm circumpapillary position using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). The location and height of the superior temporally peak (PeakST), superior nasal peak (PeakSN) and inferior temporal peak (PeakIT) were assessed.

Results

The RNFLT was thickest at PeakIT (194±25 µm; location: 288±12°), followed by PeakST (182±25 µm; 73±10°) and PeakSN (125±23 µm; 135°±13°). In multivariable analysis, peak RNFLT decreased with longer axial length (p<0.001; correlation coefﬁcient beta: −0.18 to −0.15; all peaks), older age (all p<0.01, beta: −0.10; PeakST and PeakIT), female gender (p=0.026, beta: −0.09; PeakST), and larger parapapillary gamma zone and beta zone width (p≤0.004, beta: −0.16 to−0.11; PeakSN). The temporal peaks were located more closely to the horizontal line in women (p≤0.020, beta: 0.09–0.11) and with longer axial length (p<0.001, beta: 0.27–0.31), while they were located more inferiorly in eyes with larger Bruch’s membrane openings (BMOs) (p≤0.01, beta:0.10~0.11).

Conclusions

Peak RNFLT decreased by 0.34 µm for each increase of year in age (PeakST and PeakIT), by 3.2–3.5 µm for each 1 mm increase in axial length (all three peaks), and was 4.5 µm thinner in women than in men. The position of temporal peaks depended on gender, axial length and BMO diameter. These associations should be taken into count in OCT-based RNFLT assessment for disease finding, especially in glaucoma evaluation.
Genetic information, insurance and a pluralistic approach to justice
Authors: Pugh Jonathan
Published: April 2021

The use of genetic testing has prompted the question of whether insurance companies should be able to use predictive genetic test results (GTRs) in their risk classification of clients. While some jurisdictions have passed legislation to prohibit this practice, the UK has instead adopted a voluntary code of practice that merely restricts the ways in which insurance companies may use GTRs. Critics have invoked various theories of justice to argue that this approach is unfair. However, as well as sometimes relying on somewhat idealised assumptions, these analyses have tended to invoke theories that have wide-ranging and highly revisionary implications for insurance. Moreover, they fail to adequately engage with a conception of justice that plausibly undergirds the status quo approach to insurance in the UK. I argue that it is a mistake to simply invoke a single contestable theory in seeking to develop sound policy on the use of GTRs in insurance. To that end, in this paper, I outline three plausible principles of justice that policy on this issue ought to balance: A principle of equity, a principle of equal access and a principle of need. In doing so, I shall offer a pluralist justice-based argument in support of the spirit, if not the precise letter, of the UK approach.
Inconsistent relationship between depth of sedation and intensive care outcome: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Aitken Leanne M , Kydonaki Kalliopi , Blackwood Bronagh , Trahair Laurence G , Purssell Edward , Sekhon Mandeep , Walsh Timothy S
Published: April 2021

Purpose

To determine the effect of depth of sedation on intensive care mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation, and other clinically important outcomes.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO from 2000 to 2020. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies that examined the effect of sedation depth were included. Two reviewers independently screened, selected articles, extracted data and appraised quality. Data on study design, population, setting, patient characteristics, study interventions, depth of sedation and relevant outcomes were extracted. Quality was assessed using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tools.

Results

We included data from 26 studies (n=7865 patients): 8 RCTs and 18 cohort studies. Heterogeneity of studies was substantial. There was no significant effect of lighter sedation on intensive care mortality. Lighter sedation did not affect duration of mechanical ventilation in RCTs (mean difference (MD): −1.44 days (95% CI −3.79 to 0.91)) but did in cohort studies (MD: −1.52 days (95% CI −2.71 to −0.34)). No statistically significant benefit of lighter sedation was identified in RCTs. In cohort studies, lighter sedation improved time to extubation, intensive care and hospital length of stay and ventilator-associated pneumonia. We found no significant effects for hospital mortality, delirium or adverse events.

Conclusion

Evidence of benefit from lighter sedation is limited, with inconsistency between observational and randomised studies. Positive effects were mainly limited to low quality evidence from observational studies, which could be attributable to bias and confounding factors.
Effects of advertising features on smokers’ and non-smokers’ perceptions of a reduced nicotine cigarette modified risk tobacco product
Authors: Mercincavage Melissa , Pacek Lauren R , Thrasher James , Cappella Joseph N , Delnevo Cristine , Donny Eric C , Strasser Andrew A
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Research is needed to determine the impact of marketing on perceptions and use of reduced nicotine content (RNC) cigarettes, particularly as US regulators have permitted the sale of an RNC cigarette modified risk tobacco product (MRTP) that seeks further authorisation to advertise using modified risk claims. This study examined the effects of two advertising elements (product name and disclaimer content) on perceptions of an RNC cigarette MRTP.

Methods

Adult participants (n=807, 28.7% smokers, 58.2% male, 74.2% non-Latinx white) completed an online MTurk survey. Participants were randomised to view one of six RNC cigarette advertisements, using a 2×3 between-subject factorial design to manipulate product name (‘Moonlight’ vs ‘Moonrise’) and disclaimer content (industry-proposed: ‘Nicotine is addictive. Less nicotine does NOT mean a safer cigarette’ vs focused: ‘Less nicotine does NOT mean a safer cigarette’ vs no content), then completed recall and product perception questionnaires.

Results

All participants who viewed the industry-proposed disclaimer (vs no content) perceived greater addiction risk (p’s<0.05). Non-smokers who viewed this disclaimer also perceived greater health risks and held fewer false beliefs (p’s<0.05). Smokers who viewed Moonlight (vs Moonrise) ads perceived lower health risks (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Disclaimer content may effectively inform consumers about addiction risk of a new RNC cigarette MRTP, and further inform non-smokers about health risks. This element, however, had little effect on perceived health risks among smokers, among whom the Moonlight product name was associated with health risk misperceptions similar to the banned ‘light’ descriptor.
Quantifying migratory capacity and dispersal of the invasive tench (Tinca tinca) in the St. Lawrence River using otolith chemistry
Authors: Morissette Olivier , Lecomte Frédéric , Vachon Nathalie , Drouin Annick , Sirois Pascal
Published: April 2021

The study of distribution and dispersal of invasive fishes is challenging during the early stages of invasion. Quantification of trace elements incorporated into fish hard parts represents an innovative technique for this task. Otolith chemistry has been used to describe fish stock structure, migratory behaviour and to support the management of several species. We used otolith chemistry to study the dispersal and population structure of tench (Tinca tinca), an invader in the St. Lawrence River. Tench movements throughout the invaded portion of the system were reconstructed using a Random Forests algorithm. The results showed that, despite the presumed limited dispersal capacity of the species, tench are capable of extensive migratory movements (up to 250 km). The variability in migratory patterns among individuals, including both short- and long-distance movements, supports a stratified diffusion. Such a strategy may explain the successful invasion of tench in the St. Lawrence River ecosystem. Our study represents a flexible framework for the study of tench ecology in its invaded and native range, as well as for other freshwater invasive fishes.
Multi-decadal shifts in the distribution and timing of Pacific herring (Clupea pallasii) spawning in Prince William Sound, Alaska
Authors: McGowan David W. , Branch Trevor A. , Haught Stormy , Scheuerell Mark D.
Published: April 2021

The location and timing of spawning play a critical role in pelagic fish survival during early life stages and can affect subsequent recruitment. Spawning patterns of Pacific herring (Clupea pallasii) were examined in Prince William Sound (1973–2019) where the population has failed to recover since its collapse in 1993. Abrupt shifts in spawn distribution preceded the rapid increase in population size in the 1980s and later its collapse by one and two years, respectively. Following the population collapse, spawning contracted away from historical regions towards southeastern areas of the Sound, and the proportion of occupied spawning areas declined from 65% to <9%. Spatial differences in spawn timing variation were also apparent, as the median spawn date shifted earlier by 26 days in eastern and 15 days in western areas of Prince William Sound between 1980 and 2006, and then shifted later by 25 (eastern) and 19 (western) days over a 7-year period. Effects of contracted spawning areas and timing shifts on first-year survival and recruitment are uncertain and require future investigation.
Numerical-analytical method for calculating the refraction of radio waves in a chaotic upper atmosphere
Authors: Kim D.Ch. , Ageeva E.T. , Afanasiev N.T. , Chudaev S.O. , Makhro I.G. , Medvedeva O.I.
Published: April 2021

An operational method is proposed for calculating the refraction of decameter radio waves in a randomly-inhomogeneous upper atmosphere. The method is based on the numerical-analytical solution of stochastic equations of geometric optics. An integral expression is obtained for the dispersion of the refraction angle of a radio wave on the atmospheric path using the approximation of the perturbation method. For a quick calculation of the statistical moment of the refraction angle, the integral expression is reduced to an ordinary first-order differential equation. Joint numerical solution of the unperturbed ray equations and the equations for the statistical moment allows an operational estimate of beam width of radio waves arriving at the observation point. The results of numerical calculations of the standard deviations of the refraction angles of radio waves on paths of various lengths are presented.
Curvature tensors of higher-spin gauge theories derived from general Lagrangian densities
Authors: Baker Mark Robert , Bruce-Robertson Julia
Published: April 2021

Curvature tensors of higher-spin gauge theories have been known for some time. In the past, they were postulated using a generalization of the symmetry properties of the Riemann tensor (curl on each index of a totally symmetric rank-n field for each spin-n). For this reason they are sometimes referred to as the generalized “Riemann” tensors. In this article, a method for deriving these curvature tensors from first principles is presented; the derivation is completed without any a priori knowledge of the existence of the Riemann tensors or the curvature tensors of higher-spin gauge theories. To perform this derivation, a recently developed procedure for deriving exactly gauge invariant Lagrangian densities from quadratic combinations of N order of derivatives and M rank of tensor potential is applied to the N = M = n case under the spin-n gauge transformations. This procedure uniquely yields the Lagrangian for classical electrodynamics in the N = M = 1 case and the Lagrangian for higher derivative gravity (“Riemann” and “Ricci” squared terms) in the N = M = 2 case. It is proven here by direct calculation for the N = M = 3 case that the unique solution to this procedure is the spin-3 curvature tensor and its contractions. The spin-4 curvature tensor is also uniquely derived for the N = M = 4 case. In other words, it is proven here that, for the most general linear combination of scalars built from N derivatives and M rank of tensor potential, up to N = M = 4, there exists a unique solution to the resulting system of linear equations as the contracted spin-n curvature tensors. Conjectures regarding the solutions to the higher spin-n N = M = n are discussed.