bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Welder’s Anthrax: A Tale of 2 Cases
Authors: Hendricks Katherine , Martines Roosecelis Brasil , Bielamowicz Hannah , Boyer Anne E , Long Stephen , Byers Paul , Stoddard Robyn A , Taylor Kathryn , Kolton Cari Beesley , Gallegos-Candela Maribel , Roberts Christine , DeLeon-Carnes Marlene , Salzer Johanna , Dawson Patrick , Brown Dannette , Templeton-LeBouf Lindsey , Maves Ryan C , Gulvik Chris , Lonsway David , Barr John R , Bower William A , Hoffmaster Alex
Published: October 2022

Bacillus anthracis has traditionally been considered the etiologic agent of anthrax. However, anthrax-like illness has been documented in welders and other metal workers infected with Bacillus cereus group spp. harboring pXO1 virulence genes that produce anthrax toxins. We present 2 recent cases of severe pneumonia in welders with B. cereus group infections and discuss potential risk factors for infection and treatment options, including antitoxin.
Risk Factors for Severe Cutaneous Anthrax in a Retrospective Case Series and Use of a Clinical Algorithm to Identify Likely Meningitis and Evaluate Treatment Outcomes, Kyrgyz Republic, 2005–2012
Authors: Kutmanova Ainura , Zholdoshev Saparbai , Roguski Katherine M , Sholpanbay uulu Melis , Person Marissa K , Cook Rachel , Bugrysheva Julia , Nadol Patrick , Buranchieva Aisuluu , Imanbaeva Lira , Dzhangazieva Ainura , Bower William A , Hendricks Katherine
Published: October 2022

Background

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines currently recommend triple-therapy antimicrobial treatment for anthrax meningitis. In the Kyrgyz Republic, a country with endemic anthrax, cutaneous anthrax patients are routinely hospitalized and treated successfully with only monotherapy or dual therapy. Clinical algorithms have been developed to identify patients with likely anthrax meningitis based on signs and symptoms alone. We sought to retrospectively identify likely meningitis patients in the Kyrgyz Republic using a clinical algorithm and evaluate risk factors and their outcomes by type of treatment.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of cutaneous anthrax patients in the Kyrgyz Republic from 2005 through 2012. Using previous methods, we developed a highly specific algorithm to categorize patients by meningitis status. We then evaluated patient risk factors, treatments, and outcomes by disease severity and meningitis status.

Results

We categorized 37 of 230 cutaneous anthrax patients as likely having meningitis. All 37 likely meningitis patients survived, receiving only mono- or dual-therapy antimicrobials. We identified underlying medical conditions, such as obesity, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and tobacco and alcohol use, as potential risk factors for severe anthrax and anthrax meningitis.

Conclusions

Based on our analyses, treatment of anthrax meningitis may not require 3 antimicrobials, which could impact future anthrax treatment recommendations. In addition, chronic comorbidities may increase risk for severe anthrax and anthrax meningitis. Future research should further investigate potential risk factors for severe anthrax and their impact on laboratory-confirmed meningitis and evaluate mono- and dual-therapy antimicrobial regimens for anthrax meningitis.
Algorithms for the Identification of Anthrax Meningitis During a Mass Casualty Event Based on a Systematic Review of Systemic Anthrax From 1880 Through 2018
Authors: Binney Sophie , Person Marissa K , Traxler Rita M , Cook Rachel , Bower William A , Hendricks Katherine
Published: October 2022

Background

During an anthrax mass casualty event, prompt identification of patients with anthrax meningitis is important. Previous research has suggested use of a screening tool based on neurological symptoms and signs.

Methods

Using historical anthrax patient data from 1880 through 2018, we analyzed risk factors for meningitis. We developed lists of symptoms and signs (ie, algorithms) for predicting meningitis with high sensitivity and specificity. We evaluated both single and paired algorithms as screening tools.

Results

A single algorithm with 1 or more neurological symptoms or signs identifying patients with likely meningitis achieved high sensitivity (86%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 71%–100%) and specificity (90%; 95% CI, 82%–98%). Pairing algorithms with the same symptoms and signs (severe headache, altered mental status, meningeal signs, and “other neurological deficits”) improved specificity (99%; 95% CI, 97%–100%) but left 17.3% of patients in a middle “indeterminate” meningitis category and in need of additional diagnostic testing to determine likely meningitis status. Pairing algorithms with differing symptoms and signs also improved specificity over the single algorithm (92%; 95% CI, 85%–99%) but categorized just 2.5% of patients as indeterminate.

Conclusions

Our study confirms prior research suggesting quick and reliable assessment of patients for anthrax meningitis is possible based on the presence or absence of certain symptoms and signs. A single algorithm was adequate; however, if we assumed low-resource diagnostic testing was feasible for some patients, pairing algorithms improved specificity. Pairing algorithms with differing symptoms and signs minimized the proportion of patients requiring additional diagnostics.
Genome report: chromosome-level draft assemblies of the snow leopard, African leopard, and tiger (Panthera uncia, Panthera pardus pardus, and Panthera tigris)
Authors: Armstrong Ellie E , Campana Michael G , Solari Katherine A , Morgan Simon R , Ryder Oliver A , Naude Vincent N , Samelius Gustaf , Sharma Koustubh , Hadly Elizabeth A , Petrov Dmitri A
Published: October 2022

The big cats (genus Panthera) represent some of the most popular and charismatic species on the planet. Although some reference genomes are available for this clade, few are at the chromosome level, inhibiting high-resolution genomic studies. We assembled genomes from 3 members of the genus, the tiger (Panthera tigris), the snow leopard (Panthera uncia), and the African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus), at chromosome or near-chromosome level. We used a combination of short- and long-read technologies, as well as proximity ligation data from Hi-C technology, to achieve high continuity and contiguity for each individual. We hope that these genomes will aid in further evolutionary and conservation research of this iconic group of mammals.
CORAL: A framework for rigorous self-validated data modeling and integrative, reproducible data analysis
Authors: Novichkov Pavel S , Chandonia John-Marc , Arkin Adam P
Published: October 2022

Background

Many organizations face challenges in managing and analyzing data, especially when relevant datasets arise from multiple sources and methods. Analyzing heterogeneous datasets and additional derived data requires rigorous tracking of their interrelationships and provenance. This task has long been a Grand Challenge of data science and has more recently been formalized in the FAIR principles: that all data objects be Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable, both for machines and for people. Adherence to these principles is necessary for proper stewardship of information, for testing regulatory compliance, for measuring the efficiency of processes, and for facilitating reuse of data-analytical frameworks.

Findings

We present the Contextual Ontology-based Repository Analysis Library (CORAL), a platform that greatly facilitates adherence to all 4 of the FAIR principles, including the especially difficult challenge of making heterogeneous datasets Interoperable and Reusable across all parts of a large, long-lasting organization. To achieve this, CORAL's data model requires that data generators extensively document the context for all data, and our tools maintain that context throughout the entire analysis pipeline. CORAL also features a web interface for data generators to upload and explore data, as well as a Jupyter notebook interface for data analysts, both backed by a common API.

Conclusions

CORAL enables organizations to build FAIR data types on the fly as they are needed, avoiding the expense of bespoke data modeling. CORAL provides a uniquely powerful platform to enable integrative cross-dataset analyses, generating deeper insights than are possible using traditional analysis tools.
8. Mistake
Authors: Devenney James
Published: October 2022

The Concentrate Questions and Answers series offers the best preparation for tackling exam questions. Each book includes typical questions, answer plans and suggested answers, author commentary, and other features. This chapter discusses the three broad classifications of mistake: common, mutual and unilateral. In common mistake (sometimes confusingly referred to as mutual mistake) both parties share the same mistake about a fundamental fact of the contract. With mutual mistake the parties are at cross-purposes but neither realizes it. In unilateral mistake only one of the parties is mistaken and the other party either knows of the mistake or possibly is deemed to know.
11. Damages
Authors: Devenney James
Published: October 2022

The Concentrate Questions and Answers series offers the best preparation for tackling exam questions. Each book includes typical questions, answer plans and suggested answers, author commentary, and other features. The common law places great emphasis on damages as the primary remedy for breach of contract, reinforced by the fact that although a victim of a breach may seek specific performance or an injunction, such orders are equitable in nature and therefore discretionary. In claiming damages, the victim of a breach will need to establish that: the claimed method for assessing damages is appropriate (measure); the damages are not too remote (remoteness); if relevant, compensation for inconvenience and/or disappointment caused by the breach is recoverable (non-pecuniary losses); the losses could not have been reasonably mitigated (mitigation); and the recoverable losses have been properly quantified (quantification). Separately, the validity of any agreed damages clause will need to be determined.
14. Mixed Topic Questions
Authors: Devenney James
Published: October 2022

The Concentrate Questions and Answers series offers the best preparation for tackling exam questions. Each book includes typical questions, answer plans and suggested answers, author commentary, and other features. This chapter introduces students to examination questions which contain overlapping topics. Clearly, if students identify all the relevant areas then they will have established a firm base from which a good answer can be developed. The chapter aims to illustrate how different topics may be contained within one question; the suggested answers offer an explanation of how such questions may be approached in a written answer.
9. Damages, Compensation, and Responsibility
Authors: Steele Jenny
Published: October 2022

All books in this flagship series contain carefully selected substantial extracts from key cases, legislation, and academic debate, providing able students with a stand-alone resource. This chapter deals with remedies, particularly monetary remedies, and remedial issues in relation to torts. Before discussing compensation and responsibility, it first considers the heads of loss for which damages in tort may be awarded, and some serious conceptual difficulties involved with this. It then looks at the potential for non-compensatory awards and the challenge to tort law represented by the growth of damages under the Human Rights Act 1998. It also assesses recent developments with respect to the assessment and delivery of damages, the funding of litigation, and the relationship between tort damages and welfare support.
16. Product Liability
Authors: Steele Jenny
Published: October 2022

All books in this flagship series contain carefully selected substantial extracts from key cases, legislation, and academic debate, providing able students with a stand-alone resource. This chapter examines the statutory strict liability for damage arising from defective products as set out in the Consumer Protection Act 1987 and the EEC Directive on Product Liability. It begins by considering the apportionment of risks associated with products and the development risks defence before turning to similarities between statutory liability and common law liabilities based on negligence and on strict liability. It then looks at the reasons why it is misleading to consider ‘product liability’ in isolation and the concept of defectiveness.
High-resolution genome-wide association study of a large Czech collection of sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) on fruit maturity and quality traits
Authors: Holušová Kateřina , Čmejlová Jana , Suran Pavol , Čmejla Radek , Sedlák Jiří , Zelený Lubor , Bartoš Jan
Published: October 2022

In sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.), quantitative trait loci have been identified for fruit maturity, colour, firmness, and size to develop markers for marker-assisted selection. However, resolution is usually too low in those analyses to directly target candidate genes, and some associations are missed. In contrast, genome-wide association studies are performed on broad collections of accessions, and assemblies of reference sequences from Tieton and Satonishiki cultivars enable identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms after whole-genome sequencing, providing high marker density. Two hundred and thirty-five sweet cherry accessions were sequenced and phenotyped for harvest time and fruit colour, firmness, and size. Genome-wide association studies were used to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with each trait, which were verified in breeding material consisting of 64 additional accessions. A total of 1 767 106 single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified. At that density, significant single nucleotide polymorphisms could be linked to co-inherited haplotype blocks (median size ~10 kb). Thus, markers were tightly associated with respective phenotypes, and individual allelic combinations of particular single nucleotide polymorphisms provided links to distinct phenotypes. In addition, yellow-fruit accessions were sequenced, and a ~ 90-kb-deletion on chromosome 3 that included five MYB10 transcription factors was associated with the phenotype. Overall, the study confirmed numerous quantitative trait loci from bi-parental populations using high-diversity accession populations, identified novel associations, and genome-wide association studies reduced the size of trait-associated loci from megabases to kilobases and to a few candidate genes per locus. Thus, a framework is provided to develop molecular markers and evaluate and characterize genes underlying important agronomic traits.
Connected Memories: The International Politics of Partition, from Poland to India
Authors: Goettlich Kerry
Published: October 2022

This article theorizes connected memory, or in other words how people remember each other's memories, through the connected histories of territorial partition in different contexts. It claims that social memories can travel beyond their original context, pushing beyond efforts to understand supranational “mnemonic communities,” or to understand cosmopolitan memory as a thin memory community encompassing all humanity. It builds on the idea of “connected histories,” arguing that existing approaches to social memory in world politics either neglect connections across national and regional boundaries or scale up the national model to the global level. The article uses the history of territorial partitions as an illustration of three types of connected memory: sympathetic, vicarious, and modular. Partition has often been studied in comparative or aggregative ways, ruling out the possibility that partitions affect each other. But from the partitions of Poland to the breakup of the Ottoman Empire, to Ireland, Palestine, and India, partitions have often been events remembered beyond the national context and in the plural. Such memories have, in turn, altered the imaginable possibilities of the future, for example, by providing precedents for or warnings about future partitions.
High-resolution time–frequency analysis based on a synchroextracting adaptive S-transform and its application
Authors: Lin Ying , Chen Siyuan , Zhang Guangzhi , Huang Minmin , Wang Baoli
Published: October 2022

We propose synchroextracting adaptive S-transform (SEAST) by combining the adaptivity provided by the recently introduced ‘Sparse Adaptive S-transform’ (SAST) with the high resolution of synchroextracting spectral decomposition method. Traditional synchroextracting transforms are based on short-time Fourier transforms (STFTs) and their application is limited by having a fixed analysis window size for high and low frequencies and no multi-resolution features. The arbitrary window functions used in the SAST vary with frequency and amplitude, making it more suitable for non-stationary seismic signal analysis. The SEAST retains the multi-resolution advantages of adaptive S-transforms, while providing the strong time–frequency focus associated with synchroextracting transforms. The method was used to calculate seismic dispersion attributes and the resulting field data indicates that its time–frequency resolution and joint P-wave dispersion attributes can help to fine-tune identification of the location of oil and gas reservoirs.
Relationship between labral length and symptoms in patients with acetabular dysplasia before rotational acetabular osteotomy
Authors: Shirogane Yuichi , Homma Yasuhiro , Yanagisawa Naotake , Higano Masanori , Hirasawa Yoichiro , Nakamura Shigeru , Baba Tomonori , Kaneko Kazuo , Taneda Hitoshi , Ishijima Muneaki
Published: October 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between acetabular labral length and symptoms in patients with acetabular dysplasia. In a retrospective medical record review, 218 patients with acetabular dysplasia who had undergone rotational acetabular osteotomy were identified. After implementing the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 53 patients were analyzed for preoperative symptoms measured by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Hip Disease Evaluation Questionnaire (JHEQ), acetabular bone morphology parameters by anteroposterior pelvic radiographs and labral parameters by radial magnetic resonance imaging. Spearman’s correlation coefficients were calculated among JHEQ scores, bone morphologic parameters and labral parameters. Multiple linear regression models to determine the predictive variables of JHEQ score and labral length were obtained. There was no correlation between bone morphologic parameters and JHEQ scores. Labral length measured anteriorly correlated with JHEQ pain {r [95% confidence interval (CI)] = −0.335 (−0.555, −0.071), P = 0.014}, movement subscale [r (95% CI) = −0.398 (−0.603, −0.143), P = 0.003], mental subscale [r (95% CI) = −0.436 (−0.632, −0.188), P = 0.001] and total JHEQ score [r (95% CI) = −0.451 (−0.642, −0.204), P = 0.001]. The multiple linear regression results showed that anterior labral length was independently associated with JHEQ subscales in some models. Meanwhile, age, acetabular head index and total JHEQ score were independently associated with anterior labral length in all models. Labral length, notably in anterosuperior area, in patients with symptomatic acetabular dysplasia was related to patient’s symptom. Labral length may be an important objective image finding that can be used to assess the severity of cumulative hip instability.
Infectious Disease Teleconsultation to the Deployed U.S. Military From 2017–2022
Authors: Bennett William N , Markelz Ana E , Kile Michael T , Pamplin Jeremy C , Barsoumian Alice E
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The ADvanced VIrtual Support for OpeRational Forces (ADVISOR) program is a synchronous telemedicine system developed in 2017 to provide 24/7 remote expert support to U.S. Military and NATO clinicians engaged in medical care in austere locations. Infectious disease (ID) remains the highest consulted service since 2018 and is currently staffed by 10 adult and pediatric ID physicians within the Military Health System. We conducted a retrospective review of the ID ADVISOR calls between 2017 and 2022 to identify trends and better prepare military ID physicians to address urgent ID consultations in overseas settings.

Methods

Health records of the ID consultations between July 2017 and January 2022 were reviewed for local caregiver and patient demographics, case descriptions, consultant recommendations, and outcomes. A “not research” determination was made by the Brooke Army Medical Center Human Research Protections Office.

Results

ID physicians received 57 calls for 60 urgent patient consultations. Most calls were from countries in the Middle East or in Southwest Asia (United States Central Command (USCENTCOM)), followed by countries in Africa (United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM)). The majority of patients were active duty U.S. Military and were generally male with median age of 25 years. All consults involved an initial phone consultation and 30% continued over email. Ninety percent of the calls were initiated by physicians, and the median time from injury or illness-onset to consult was 3 days. Seventy percent of the consult questions involved treatment and further diagnostics, but one-third of cases required assistance with management of disease prevention. Multidrug-resistant or nosocomial infections, animal or bite exposure, malaria and malaria prevention, febrile illness, and blood-borne pathogen exposure accounted for 63% of the consults. Collaboration with other specialties took place in a minority of cases, and follow-up contact was recommended 20% of the time. Most recommendations involved adjusting drug regimens or further testing. Medical evacuation was only recommended in five of the cases. Although there was limited ability for follow-up, no known deaths occurred.

Conclusions

A high proportion of calls to the ID ADVISOR line are relevant to the overlapping content areas of infection prevention, force protection, and outbreak response. Most patients requiring urgent ID consultation were managed successfully without evacuation. The current military-unique ID fellowship curriculum is consistent with the encountered diagnoses per the ID ADVISOR line, and high-yield individual topics have been identified.
Intracranial vascular stenosis in giant cell arteritis successfully treated by two balloon angioplasty procedures
Authors: Takatsuki Kensaku , Kojima Yuki , Ikeuchi Yasuhito , Kitayama Jiro , Tanaka Atsushi , Inoue Yasushi
Published: October 2022

Intracranial vascular stenosis is rarely associated with giant cell arteritis (GCA), and the prognosis for stroke caused by GCA is poor. Despite its unfavourable outcome, the strategy to manage this involvement and the indication of endovascular treatment are not well defined in the latest guidelines or recommendations. Here, we present a case in a 68-year-old woman, which was refractory to medical therapy, but successfully treated by two balloon angioplasty procedures. She was admitted to our department with lower extremity stiffness and left visual disturbance. GCA was clinically diagnosed by the wall thickening of the temporal artery and the aorta. Hemiparesis and motor aphasia developed shortly after intravenous methylprednisolone pulse therapy, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed acute cerebral infarction with severe stenosis at the end of the left internal carotid artery. Balloon angioplasty was tried initially with improvement in her symptoms and additionally performed to treat restenosis without any significant adverse events. Her symptoms markedly improved with no recurrence until 8 months after discharge. We also review 10 similar cases reported in the literature. Although further evidence is needed to confirm the usefulness and safety of balloon angioplasty for intracranial GCA, this case report provides valuable information about the endovascular therapy for GCA.
Escape from G1 arrest during acute MEK inhibition drives the acquisition of drug resistance
Authors: Channathodiyil Prasanna , May Kieron , Segonds-Pichon Anne , Smith Paul D , Cook Simon J , Houseley Jonathan
Published: October 2022

Mutations and gene amplifications that confer drug resistance emerge frequently during chemotherapy, but their mechanism and timing are poorly understood. Here, we investigate BRAFV600E amplification events that underlie resistance to the MEK inhibitor selumetinib (AZD6244/ARRY-142886) in COLO205 cells, a well-characterized model for reproducible emergence of drug resistance, and show that BRAF amplifications acquired de novo are the primary cause of resistance. Selumetinib causes long-term G1 arrest accompanied by reduced expression of DNA replication and repair genes, but cells stochastically re-enter the cell cycle during treatment despite continued repression of pERK1/2. Most DNA replication and repair genes are re-expressed as cells enter S and G2; however, mRNAs encoding a subset of factors important for error-free replication and chromosome segregation, including TIPIN, PLK2 and PLK3, remain at low abundance. This suggests that DNA replication following escape from G1 arrest in drug is more error prone and provides a potential explanation for the DNA damage observed under long-term RAF–MEK–ERK1/2 pathway inhibition. To test the hypothesis that escape from G1 arrest in drug promotes de novo BRAF amplification, we exploited the combination of palbociclib and selumetinib. Combined treatment with selumetinib and a dose of palbociclib sufficient to reinforce G1 arrest in selumetinib-sensitive cells, but not to impair proliferation of resistant cells, delays the emergence of resistant colonies, meaning that escape from G1 arrest is critical in the formation of resistant clones. Our findings demonstrate that acquisition of MEK inhibitor resistance often occurs through de novo gene amplification and can be suppressed by impeding cell cycle entry in drug.
Promoting and Maintaining Changes in Smoking Behavior for Patients Following Discharge from a Smoke-free Mental Health Inpatient Stay: Development of a Complex Intervention Using the Behavior Change Wheel
Authors: Shoesmith Emily , Huddlestone Lisa , Pervin Jodi , Shahab Lion , Coventry Peter , Coleman Tim , Lorencatto Fabiana , Gilbody Simon , Leahy Moira , Horspool Michelle , Paul Claire , Colley Lesley , Hough Simon , Hough Phil , Ratschen Elena
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Evidence suggests that smokers can successfully quit, remain abstinent or reduce smoking during a smoke-free mental health inpatient stay, provided behavioral/pharmacological support are offered. However, few evidence-based strategies to prevent the return to prehospital smoking behaviors post-discharge exist.

Aims and Methods

We report the development of an intervention designed to support smoking-related behavior change following discharge from a smoke-free mental health stay. We followed the Behavior Change Wheel (BCW) intervention development process. The target behavior was supporting patients to change their smoking behaviors following discharge from a smoke-free mental health stay. Using systematic reviews, we identified the barriers and enablers, classified according to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Potential intervention functions to address key influences were identified by consulting the BCW and Behavior Change Technique (BCT) taxonomy. Another systematic review identified effectiveness of BCTs in this context. Stakeholder consultations were conducted to prioritize and refine intervention content.

Results

Barriers and enablers to supporting smoking cessation were identified within the domains of environmental context and resources (lack of staff time); knowledge (ill-informed interactions about smoking); social influences, and intentions (lack of intention to deliver support). Potential strategies to address these influences included goal setting, problem-solving, feedback, social support, and information on health consequences. A strategy for operationalizing these techniques into intervention components was agreed upon: Pre-discharge evaluation sessions, a personalized resource folder, tailored behavioral and text message support post-discharge, and a peer interaction group, delivered by a trained mental health worker.

Conclusions

The intervention includes targeted resources to support smoking-related behavior change in patients following discharge from a smoke-free mental health setting.

Implications

Using the BCW and TDF supported a theoretically and empirically informed process to define and develop a tailored intervention that acknowledges barriers and enablers to supporting smoking cessation in mental health settings. The result is a novel complex theory- and evidence-based intervention that will be formally tested in a randomized controlled feasibility study.
Consumption of food away from home in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Landais Edwige , Miotto-Plessis Mathilda , Bene Chris , Maitre d’Hotel Elodie , Truong Mai Tuyet , Somé Jérome W , Verger Eric O
Published: October 2022

Context

Consumption of food away from home represents an increasing share of people’s food consumption worldwide, although the percentage of food intake that is consumed away from home varies among countries and among individuals. Previous systematic reviews have reported that, overall, consumption away from home negatively affects an individual’s diet and nutritional status. However, these reviews have mainly focused on high-income countries, leaving a gap in knowledge and data for people in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Objective

The present review aimed to describe trends in the consumption of food away from home in an apparently healthy population in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and to investigate any associations between this behavior and diet quality, nutritional status, and health outcomes.

Data Sources

A structured search strategy was developed for retrieving (from MEDLINE [via PubMed], Web of Science, and Scopus) peer-reviewed articles published in English from March 2011 until May 2021.

Data Extraction

Forty studies were included, and from them information was obtained based on data from 12 different countries. A qualitative and descriptive approach was used to review the evidence.

Data Analysis

It was found that there was large heterogeneity in the definition of food consumed away from home and the methods used to measure it, making comparisons and syntheses difficult. Consumption of food away from home in LMICs was relatively common and was positively driven by factors such as being a male, being young, having a high socio-economic status, being educated, and living in urban areas. As in high-income countries, consumption of food away from home in LMICs had unfavorable effects on an individual’s diet quality, nutritional status, and health.

Conclusion

There is a need to develop harmonized surveillance systems for better monitoring of the phenomenon of food consumption away from home in LMICs, including a need for a standardized definition for food consumed away from home, to enable the design of effective regulatory policies.
Beyond lockdowns: a systematic review of the impacts of COVID-19 lockdowns on dietary pattern, physical activity, body weight, and food security
Authors: Mekanna Alexandria Nivelle , Panchal Sunil K , Li Li
Published: October 2022

Context

COVID-19 lockdowns may have impacted dietary patterns and nutritional outcomes in many populations.

Objective

The aim of this review was to evaluate the impacts of COVID-19 lockdowns on nutritional patterns, investigating behaviors in the periods before, during, and after lockdowns.

Data Source

This systematic review followed the PRISMA-P methodology. The articles included were identified by searching the key words in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. The key words used in the search included: “COVID19” AND “diet*”, “coronavirus” AND “diet*”, “coronavirus 2” AND “diet*”, “COVID19” AND “nutri*”, “coronavirus” AND “nutri*”, “coronavirus 2” AND “nutri*”, “COVID19” AND “food”.

Data Extraction

Twenty-two original studies were included in this review. Data extraction tables were created for recording author names, year of publication, location of study, duration, lockdown phase, design, methods, aims, number of participants, age, gender, health status, education, socioeconomic status, dietary patterns, food security, physical activity, body weight change or body mass index, and associations with sociodemographic characteristics.

Data Analysis

Impacts of lockdowns on eating patterns, physical activity, body weight or body mass index, and food security were the primary outcomes investigated. Secondary outcomes investigated were associations with sociodemographic characteristics.

Conclusion

COVID-19 lockdowns were associated with significant changes in dietary and lifestyle behaviors of worldwide populations. Impacts were seen during and post-lockdown likely due to more time spent at home, working from home, decreased food availability and accessibility, and augmented stress associated with lockdown.
Can MRI Be Used as a Sole Diagnostic Modality in Determining Clinical Stage in Cervical Cancer?
Authors: Smits Anke , Steins Maud , van Koeverden Sebastiaan , Rundle Stuart , Dekker Heleen , Zusterzeel Petra
Published: October 2022

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare staging by MRI to clinical staging in patients with cervical cancer and to determine the histological accuracy of staging by MRI and examination under anesthesia (EUA) in early stage disease.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed with cervical cancer between 2010 and 2020 at the Radboud University Medical Centre, the Netherlands. Pretreatment stage (FIGO 2009) by MRI was compared with staging by EUA. Diagnostic accuracy in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive value was calculated for MRI and EUA in patients undergoing surgery (early stage disease) with histological results as a reference standard.

Results

A total of 358 patients were included in the study and MRI-based stage differed from EUA stage in 30.7%. In 12.3% this meant a discrepancy in treatment assignment between MRI and EUA. Diagnostic accuracy of MRI in terms of sensitivity and specificity for detecting early stage disease was comparable to EUA in surgical patients. Further analyses showed that premenopausal status, early stage disease and a tumor diameter of <2 cm were associated with improved comparability of MRI and EUA (98%).

Conclusion

There is still a large discrepancy between MRI and EUA. In patients with suspected early stage disease, diagnostic accuracy of MRI is similar to EUA, especially for premenopausal women with early stage disease and a tumor diameter of <2 cm.
The Future of Cultural Diplomacy
Authors: Grincheva Natalia
Published: October 2022

This chapter conceptualizes changes in arts management practices from the perspective of cultural diplomacy, which has experienced significant transformations in the age of increasing digitalization. It explores and illustrates how new media technologies and data practices recalibrate the context in which cultural diplomacy operates by reshaping the medium of artistic communication, empowering new actors and equipping them with new tools to establish, deliver, maintain, and assess their global communication campaigns. The chapter identifies and describes three key aspects of cultural diplomacy transformations: virtualization, algorithmization, and datafication. Exploring the current cultural diplomacy activities reflected through institutional and government reports and press releases, the chapter offers a bird’s-eye view of global arts practices to critically reflect on the new dimension of cultural diplomacy.
Essential amino acids in the Plant-Conserved and Class-Specific Regions of cellulose synthases
Authors: Olek Anna T , Rushton Phillip S , Kihara Daisuke , Ciesielski Peter , Aryal Uma K , Zhang Zicong , Stauffacher Cynthia V , McCann Maureen C , Carpita Nicholas C
Published: October 2022

The Plant-Conserved Region (P-CR) and the Class-Specific Region (CSR) are two plant-unique sequences in the catalytic core of cellulose synthases (CESAs) for which specific functions have not been established. Here, we used site-directed mutagenesis to replace amino acids and motifs within these sequences predicted to be essential for assembly and function of CESAs. We developed an in vivo method to determine the ability of mutated CesA1 transgenes to complement an Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) temperature-sensitive root-swelling1 (rsw1) mutant. Replacement of a Cys residue in the CSR, which blocks dimerization in vitro, rendered the AtCesA1 transgene unable to complement the rsw1 mutation. Examination of the CSR sequences from 33 diverse angiosperm species showed domains of high-sequence conservation in a class-specific manner but with variation in the degrees of disorder, indicating a nonredundant role of the CSR structures in different CESA isoform classes. The Cys residue essential for dimerization was not always located in domains of intrinsic disorder. Expression of AtCesA1 transgene constructs, in which Pro417 and Arg453 were substituted for Ala or Lys in the coiled-coil of the P-CR, were also unable to complement the rsw1 mutation. Despite an expected role for Arg457 in trimerization of CESA proteins, AtCesA1 transgenes with Arg457Ala mutations were able to fully restore the wild-type phenotype in rsw1. Our data support that Cys662 within the CSR and Pro417 and Arg453 within the P-CR of Arabidopsis CESA1 are essential residues for functional synthase complex formation, but our data do not support a specific role for Arg457 in trimerization in native CESA complexes.
Disturbing NLRP3 acetylation and inflammasome assembly inhibits androgen receptor‐promoted inflammatory responses and prostate cancer progression
Authors: Zhao An‐Ning , Yang Zhan , Wang Dan‐Dan , Shi Bei , Zhang Hong , Bai Yang , Yan Bo‐Wen , Zhang Yong , Wen Jin‐Kun , Wang Xiao‐Lu , Qu Chang‐Bao
Published: October 2022

Chronic inflammation is one of the definite factors leading to the occurrence and development of tumors, including prostate cancer (PCa). The androgen receptor (AR) pathway is essential for PCa tumorigenesis and inflammatory response. However, little is known about the AR‐regulated NACHT, LRR, and PYD domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway in human PCa. In this study, we explored the expression of inflammatory cytokine and AR in high‐grade PCa and observed that NLRP3 inflammasome‐associated genes were upregulated in high‐grade PCa compared with that in low‐grade PCa and benign prostatic hyperplasia and were associated with AR expression. In addition, we identified circAR‐3—a circRNA derived from the AR gene—which is involved in the AR‐regulated inflammatory response and cell proliferation by activating the NLRP3 inflammatory pathway. While circAR‐3 overexpression promoted cell proliferation and the inflammatory response, its depletion induced opposite effects. Mechanistically, we noted that circAR‐3 mediated the acetylation modification of NLRP3 by KAT2B and then promoted NLRP3 inflammasome complex subcellular distribution and assembly. Disturbing NLRP3 acetylation or blocking inflammasome assembly with an inhibitor suppressed the progression of PCa xenograft tumors. Our findings provide the first evidence that targeting NLRP3 acetylation or inflammasome assembly may be effective in inhibiting PCa progression.
Tipping the balance toward stemness in trophoblast: Metabolic programming by Cox6B2
Authors: Saha Sarbani , Bose Rumela , Chakraborty Shreeta , Ain Rupasri
Published: October 2022

Metabolic effector(s) driving cell fate is an emerging concept in stem cell biology. Here we showed that Cytochrome C Oxidase Subunit 6B2 (Cox6B2) is essential to maintain the stemness of trophoblast stem (TS) cells. RNA interference of Cox6b2 resulted in decreased mitochondrial Complex IV activity, ATP production, and oxygen consumption rate in TS cells. Furthermore, depletion of Cox6b2 in TS cells led to decreased self‐renewal capacity indicated by compromised BrdU incorporation, Ki67 staining, and decreased expression of TS cell genetic markers. As expected, the consequence of Cox6b2 knockdown was the induction of differentiation. TS cell stemness factor CDX2 transactivates Cox6b2 promoter in TS cells. In differentiated cells, Cox6b2 is post‐transcriptionally regulated by two microRNAs, miR‐322‐5p and miR‐503‐5p, leading to its downregulation as demonstrated by the gain‐in or loss of function of these miRNAs. Cox6b2 transcripts gradually rise in placental trophoblast gestation progresses in both mice and rats with predominant expression in labyrinthine trophoblast. Cox6b2 expression is compromised in the growth‐restricted placenta of rats with reciprocal up‐regulation of miR‐322‐5p and miR‐503‐5p. These data highlight the importance of Cox6B2 in the regulation of TS cell state and uncompromised placental growth.
Insulin stimulates atypical protein kinase C‐mediated phosphorylation of the neuronal adaptor FE65 to potentiate neurite outgrowth by activating ARF6‐Rac1 signaling
Authors: Chau Dennis Dik‐Long , Li Wen , Chan Wai Wa Ray , Sun Jacquelyne Ka‐Li , Zhai Yuqi , Chow Hei‐Man , Lau Kwok‐Fai
Published: October 2022

Neurite outgrowth is a fundamental process in neurons that produces extensions and, consequently, neural connectivity. Neurite damage and atrophy are observed in various brain injuries and disorders. Understanding the intrinsic pathways of neurite outgrowth is essential for developing strategies to stimulate neurite regeneration. Insulin is a pivotal hormone in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. There is increasing evidence for the neurotrophic functions of insulin, including the induction of neurite outgrowth. However, the associated mechanism remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that insulin potentiates neurite outgrowth mediated by the small GTPases ADP‐ribosylation factor 6 (ARF6) and Ras‐related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) through the neuronal adaptor FE65. Moreover, insulin enhances atypical protein kinase Cι/λ (PKCι/λ) activation and FE65 phosphorylation at serine 459 (S459) in neurons and mouse brains. In vitro and cellular assays show that PKCι/λ phosphorylated FE65 at S459. Consistently, insulin potentiates FE65 S459 phosphorylation only in the presence of PKCι/λ. Phosphomimetic studies show that an FE65 S459E mutant potently activates ARF6, Rac1, and neurite outgrowth. Notably, this phosphomimetic mutation enhances the FE65‐ARF6 interaction, a process that promotes ARF6‐Rac1‐mediated neurite outgrowth. Likewise, insulin treatment and PKCι/λ overexpression potentiate the FE65–ARF6 interaction. Conversely, PKCι/λ knockdown suppresses the stimulatory effect of FE65 on ARF6‐Rac1‐mediated neurite outgrowth. The effect of insulin on neurite outgrowth is also markedly attenuated in PKCι/λ knockdown neurons, in the presence and absence of FE65. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism linking insulin with ARF6‐Rac1‐dependent neurite extension through the PKCι/λ‐mediated phosphorylation of FE65.
CCR2 is expressed by tendon resident macrophage and T cells, while CCR2 deficiency impairs tendon healing via blunted involvement of tendon‐resident and circulating monocytes/macrophages
Authors: Muscat Samantha , Nichols Anne E. C. , Gira Emma , Loiselle Alayna E.
Published: October 2022

During tendon healing, macrophages are thought to be a key mediator of scar tissue formation, which prevents successful functional restoration of the tendon. However, macrophages are critical for successful tendon healing as they aid in wound debridement, extracellular matrix deposition, and promote fibroblast proliferation. Recent work has sought to better define the multi‐faceted functions of macrophages using depletion studies, while other studies have identified a tendon resident macrophage population. To begin to delineate the functions of tendon‐resident versus circulation‐derived macrophages, we examined the tendon healing phenotype in Chemokine Receptor 2 (CCR2) reporter (CCR2GFP/+), and knockout mice. CCR2 is a chemokine receptor primarily found on the surface of circulating bone marrow‐derived monocytes, with CCR2 being an important mediator of macrophage recruitment to wound environments. Surprisingly, CCR2GFP/+ cells were present in the tendon during adult homeostasis, and single‐cell RNA sequencing identified these cells as tendon‐resident macrophages and T cells. During both homeostasis and healing, CCR2 knockout resulted in a substantial decrease in CCR2GFP+ cells and pan‐macrophages. Additionally, loss of CCR2 resulted in reduced numbers of myofibroblasts and impeded functional recovery during late healing. This study highlights the heterogeneity of tendon‐resident and recruited immune cells and their contributions following injury, and establishes an important role for CCR2 in modulating both the adult tendon cell environment and tendon healing process.
Early‐immediate gene Egr1 is associated with TGFβ1 regulation of epigenetic reader Bromodomain‐containing protein 4 via the canonical Smad3 signaling in hepatic stellate cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Tian Haimeng , Xu Feifan , Zhao Feifei , Pan Nachuan , Lu Sidan , Jia Xin , Zhou Yajun
Published: October 2022

Upon chronic damage to the liver, multiple cytokines stimulate hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), causing the alterations of gene expression profiles and thus leading to HSC activation, a key step in liver fibrogenesis. Activated HSCs are the dominant contributors to liver fibrosis. Bromodomain containing protein 4 (BrD4), an important epigenetic reader, was demonstrated to concentrate on hundreds of enhancers associated with genes involved in multiple profibrotic pathways, thereby directing HSC activation and the fibrotic responses. The present studies were designed to examine the effect of transforming growth factor beta‐1 (TGFβ1), the most potent pro‐fibrotic cytokine, on BrD4 expression in HSCs and, if so, elucidated the underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. The experiments employed the heterogeneous TGFβ1 knockout (TGFβ1+/−) mice, gene knockdown in vivo, and a model of thioacetamide (TAA)‐induced liver injury. The results revealed that TGFβ1 enhanced BrD4 expression in HSCs, which was mediated, at least, by Smad3 signaling and early‐immediate gene Egr1 (early growth response‐1). TGFβ1‐induced Smad3 signaling increased Egr1 expression and promoted Egr1 binding to BrD4 promoter at a site around −111 bp, promoting BrD4 expression. Egr1 knockdown reduced BrD4 expression in HSCs in a mouse model of TAA‐induced liver injury and lessened liver fibrosis. Double fluorescence staining demonstrated a strong increase in BrD4 expression in activated HSCs in fibrotic areas of the human livers, paralleling the upregulation of p‐Smad3 and Egr1. This research suggested novel molecular events underlying the roles of the master pro‐fibrotic cytokine TGFβ1 in HSC activation and liver fibrogenesis.