bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mouse Stromal Cells Confound Proteomic Characterization and Quantification of Xenograft Models
Authors: Shi Zhaomei , Mao Binchen , Chen Xiaobo , Hao Piliang , Guo Sheng
Published: January 2023

Xenografts are essential models for studying cancer biology and developing oncology drugs, and are more informative with omics data. Most reported xenograft proteomics projects directly profiled tumors comprising human cancer cells and mouse stromal cells, followed by computational algorithms for assigning peptides to human and mouse proteins. We evaluated the performance of three main algorithms by carrying out benchmark studies on a series of human and mouse cell line mixtures and a set of liver patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. Our study showed that approximately half of the characterized peptides are common between human and mouse proteins, and their allocations to human or mouse proteins cannot be satisfactorily achieved by any algorithm. As a result, many human proteins are erroneously labeled as differentially expressed proteins (DEP) between samples from the same human cell line mixed with different percentages of mouse cells, and the number of such false DEPs increases superquadratically with the mouse cell percentage. When mouse stromal cells are not removed from PDX tumors, about 30%–40% of DEPs from pairwise comparisons of PDX models are false positives, and about 20% of real DEPs cannot be identified irrespective of the threshold for calling differential expression. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that it is advisable to separate human and mouse cells in xenograft tumors before proteomic profiling to obtain more accurate measurement of species-specific protein expression.

Significance:

This study advocates the separate-then-run over the run-then-separate approach as a better strategy for more reliable proteomic profiling of xenografts.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Spinal Haemangioblastoma: A Retrospective Single-Centre Experience from the United Kingdom
Authors: Palmer Kieran , Whitelaw Gemma , Dean Chris , Mitchell Adam , Cook Jo , White Barrie , De Luna Paolo , Krishnan Anant , Plowman Nick , Lewis Rachel
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Haemangioblastoma is a benign, vascular tumour of the central nervous system. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is increasingly being used as a treatment for spinal lesions to avoid complex surgery, especially in patients with multi-focal tumours associated with von Hippel-Lindau syndrome (VHL). Here, we present the outcomes of patients treated in our centre using a CyberKnife VSI (Accuray, Inc.). Methods: Retrospective analysis of all patients treated at our institution was conducted. Assessment of radiological response was based upon RANO criteria. Solid and overall tumour progression-free survival (PFS) was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. The development of a symptomatic new or enlarging cyst was included in the definition of progression when determining overall PFS. Results: Fourteen tumours in 10 patients were included. Seven patients were male, and nine had VHL. Nine (64%) tumours had an associated cyst. The median (IQR) age at treatment was 45.5 (43.5–53) years. The median gross tumour volume was 0.355cc. Patients received a mean marginal prescribed dose of 9.6 Gy in a single fraction (median maximum dose: 14.3 Gy), which was constrained by spinal cord tolerance. Mean follow-up was 15.4 months. Radiologically, 11 (78.6%) tumours were stable or regressed and three (21.4%) progressed. Eight patients’ symptoms improved or were stable, and two worsened, both of which were secondary to cyst enlargement. The 1-year solid-tumour and overall PFS was 92.3% and 75.7%, respectively. All patients were alive at the most recent follow-up. One patient developed grade 1 back pain following treatment. Discussion/Conclusion: SRS appears to be a safe and effective treatment for spinal haemangioblastoma. Prospective trials with longer follow-up are required to establish the optimum management.
Long-Term Clinical Course after Successful Initial Treatment in Patients with Mild Erosive Esophagitis: A Prospective Follow-Up Study
Authors: Okanobu Hideharu , Kohno Tomohiko , Boda Kazuki , Ochi Hidenori , Furukawa Yoshinari
Published: January 2023

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the clinical course of patients with healed mild erosive esophagitis and clarify the predictive factors for continuous treatment. Method: Fifty-one patients with mild erosive esophagitis who confirmed mucosal healing by endoscopy after initial treatment with vonoprazan (VPZ) were enrolled. The patients continued subsequent treatment of their choice: maintenance therapy with VPZ 10 mg (n = 15), on-demand therapy with VPZ 20 mg (n = 19), or no medication (n = 17). Each patient was prospectively followed up for over 2 years, and the treatment was switched to other options appropriately according to their symptoms. Results: During the mean follow-up period of 3.1 years (range: 2.0–3.9 years), 2 patients who chose maintenance therapy switched to on-demand therapy. One patient who chose on-demand therapy switched to maintenance therapy, while 3 patients switched to no medication. Recurrence of symptoms occurred in 9 patients who chose no medication. They were administered maintenance therapy and five of them were subsequently switched to on-demand therapy. Ultimately, the proportion of patients receiving each treatment was 35.3% (18/51) for maintenance therapy, 43.1% (22/51) for on-demand therapy, and 21.6% (11/51) for no medication. A predictive factor for the need for continuous treatment was the presence of esophageal hiatal hernia (odds ratio: 6.03, 95% confidence interval: 1.43–25.3, p = 0.014). Conclusion: Among patients with healed mild erosive esophagitis, 78.4% required continuous treatment with VPZ, while 21.6% remained symptom free with no medication. On-demand therapy was the most common treatment, and continuous treatment may be recommended for patients with esophageal hiatal hernia.
Folliculitis Decalvans Has a Heterogeneous Microbiological Signature and Impaired Immunological Response
Authors: Moreno-Arrones Oscar M. , Garcia-Hoz Carlota , del Campo Rosa , Roy Garbiñe , Saceda-Corralo David , Jimenez-Cauhe Juan , Ponce-Alonso Manuel , Serrano-Villar Sergio , Jaen Pedro , Paoli John , Vano-Galvan Sergio
Published: January 2023

Background: Folliculitis decalvans (FD) is a rare primary neutrophilic scarring alopecia whose etiology has not been completely elucidated yet. Objective: The aim of the study was to determine if the follicular microbiota residing in FD-affected hair follicles had a distinct microbiological signature and if an aberrant immune response was present in the pathogenesis of FD. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 10 patients affected by FD. Trichoscopy-guided follicular biopsies were taken from affected and healthy scalp to identify the follicular microbiome using next-generation sequencing. We searched for microbiological biomarkers of FD-affected follicles using the linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) tool. Additionally, peripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained, and their cytokine production was quantified after incubation with pathogen-associated molecular patterns isolated from patients’ biopsies and compared with healthy controls. Results: β-diversity analysis showed statistically significant differences regarding bacteria comparing follicular microbiota of healthy and FD-affected hairs. Ruminococcaceae, Agathobacter sp., Tyzzerella sp., and Bacteriodales vadin HA21 family were good predictors of disease status. IL-10, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were significantly decreased in patients after incubation with various strains of bacteria compared with controls. Conclusion: FD hair follicles have a specific heterogenous follicular bacterial microbiota signature. Additionally, these patients seem to have an impaired immunological response.
Cancer Registration, Molecular Marker Status, and Adherence to the WHO 2016 Classification of Pathology Reports for Glioma Diagnosed during 2017–2019 in Belgium
Authors: Vanhauwaert Dimitri , Pinson Harry , Vanschoenbeek Katrijn , Dedeurwaerdere Franceska , De Gendt Cindy , Boterberg Tom , De Vleeschouwer Steven
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The objective of this study was to cross-check and, if necessary, adjust registered ICD-O-3 topography and morphology codes with the findings in pathology reports available at the Belgian Cancer Registry (BCR) for glioma patients. Additionally, integration of molecular markers in the pathological diagnosis and concordance with WHO 2016 classification is investigated. Methods: Since information regarding molecular tests and corresponding conclusions are not available as structured data at population level, a manual screening of all pseudonymized pathology reports available at the BCR for registered glioma patients (2017–2019) was conducted. ICD-O-3 morphology and topography codes from the BCR database (based on information as provided by hospital oncological care programmes and pathology laboratories), were, at tumour level, cross-checked with the data from the pathology reports and, if needed, specified or corrected. Relevant molecular markers (IDH1/2, 1p19q codeletion, promoter region of the MGMT gene [MGMTp]) were manually extracted from the pathology reports. Results: In 95.3% of gliomas, the ICD-O-3 morphology code was correct. Non-specific topography codes were specified in 9.3%, while 3.3% of specific codes were corrected. The IDH status was known in 75.2% of astrocytic tumours. The rate of correct integrated diagnoses varied from 47.6% to 56.4% among different gliomas. MGMTp methylation status was available in 32.2% of glioblastomas. Conclusion: Both the integration of molecular markers in the conclusion of the pathology reports and the delivery of those reports to the BCR can be improved. The availability of distinct ICD-O-3 codes for each molecularly defined tumour entity within the WHO classification would increase the consistency of cancer registration, facilitate population level research and international benchmarking.
Efficacy and Safety of a Persian Medicine Formula on Functional Dyspepsia Symptoms: A Randomized Double-Blind Active-Control Clinical Trial
Authors: Azimi Maryam , Zahedi Mohammad Javad , Raeiszadeh Mahboobeh , Iraji Aida , Cramer Holger , Pasalar Mehdi
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Functional dyspepsia (FD) is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal disorders with a high burden. Although FD is a heterogeneous disorder without any standard therapy (treatment/treatment – repetition), there is a wide history of using herbal remedies for its treatment. Two of these herbal remedies quoted in various Persian medicine resources are celery and ajwain. Their effects have been investigated in recent clinical trials in FD patients. We aimed to compare the effect of celery and ajwain to that of domperidone in patients with postprandial distress syndrome. Methods: This is a randomized double-blind active-control clinical trial, conducted at Kerman, Iran in 2020. Participants of this study were 100 patients suffering from FD (postprandial distress syndrome subtype). The intervention group received 1 g of the combination of celery and ajwain (Apium graveolens L. and Trachyspermum copticum [L.] Link), while the control group received 30 mg of domperidone per day for 4 consecutive weeks. Primary outcomes were symptom severity and frequency, and secondary outcomes were quality of life (QoL) and safety. All outcomes were assessed at the end of the trial and also 4 weeks after the trial was finished. Results: No significant differences in symptom frequency were found between groups. However, differences in symptom severity were found at the end of the follow-up (week 8) (p = 0.001). The intragroup analysis showed a significant decrease in the symptoms severity and frequency at the end of week 4 in both groups (p < 0.001). QoL in the intervention group was higher compared to the control group at the end of the study (p < 0.001) and at the point of the follow-up (week 8; p < 0.001). No serious adverse events occurred in either group. Conclusion: The herbal mixture of celery and ajwain could be considered a safe and effective remedy, decreasing the severity of symptoms and increasing QoL in patients with postprandial distress syndrome. It is further suggested to confirm these findings in high-quality multi-center clinical trials.
Role of NADPH Oxidases in Renal Aging
Authors: Yoon Sung Gi , Ghee Jung Yeon , Yoo Ji Ae , Park Boo Yeun , Cha Jin Joo , Kang Young Sun , Han Sang Youb , Min Hye Sook , Lee Ji Eun , Han Jee Young , Cha Dae Ryong
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Aging of the kidney is associated with complex molecular, histological, and functional changes. Although the aging process itself does not induce renal damage, underlying disease such as diabetes mellitus can aggravate kidney injury during aging. Although oxidative stress is considered an important mediator in age-related renal fibrosis, it is unclear how oxidative stress increases during normal and diabetic aging. Methods: In this study, we investigated molecular changes in the kidney in normal and diabetic aging mice. C57BL/6 mice were studied at 2, 12, and 24 months of age, and leptin receptor-deficient db/db mice were studied at 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, and 38 weeks of age. We measured renal functional parameters, fibrotic and inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress markers at all the above time points. Results: Both nondiabetic and diabetic mice exhibited progressive microalbuminuria during their lifespan. Interestingly, both diabetic aging and normal aging mice showed progressive increases in oxidative stress markers such as plasma and urinary 8-isoprostane, as well as renal lipid hydroperoxide content. In renal tissues, proinflammatory and profibrotic molecules were significantly upregulated in an age-dependent manner. Expression of three NADPH oxidase (Nox) isoforms, namely, Nox1, Nox2, and Nox4, was significantly increased during aging. Compared with normal aging mice, diabetic db/db mice demonstrated more dramatic changes during aging process. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that NADPH oxidases play an important role in the aging kidney under both normal and diabetic conditions. Targeting of these oxidases might be a new promising therapy to treat issues associated with aging kidneys.
Permethrin Steal Effect by Unmasked Corneocytic Keratin in Topical Therapy of Scabies
Authors: Scholz Luisa , Fritz Claudia , Chuttke Julia , Eichner Adina , Wohlrab Johannes
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The use of epicutaneously applied permethrin in the treatment of common scabies is considered to be the first-line therapy. Due to increasing clinical treatment failure, the development of genetic resistance to permethrin in Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis has been postulated. In addition, metabolic resistance and pharmacokinetic limitations by parasitic digestion and reactive thickening of stratum corneum are suspected to cause a reduction in cutaneous bioavailability. Methods: Since lipophilic permethrin is known to form hydrophobic interactions with proteins via van der Waals interactions, a similar interaction was assumed and investigated for permethrin and the protein keratin. Using keratin particles extracted from animal material, a model for hyperkeratotic and parasitic digested scabies skin was developed. Using fluorescence-labeled keratin and ³H-permethrin, their interaction potential was validated by loading and unloading experiments. Additionally, the impact of keratin to permethrin penetration was investigated based on an in vitro model using Franz diffusion cells. Results: For the first time, keratin particles were introduced as a model for dyskeratotic skin, as we were able to show, the keratin particles’ interaction potential with permethrin but no penetration behavior into the stratum corneum. Moreover, comparative penetration experiments of a reference formulation with and without added keratin or keratin-adherent permethrin showed that keratin causes a steal effect for permethrin, leading to a relevant reduction in cutaneous bioavailability in the target compartment. Conclusion: The results provide further evidence for a relevant pharmacokinetic influencing factor in the epicutaneous application of permethrin and a rationale for the necessity of keratolytic pretreatment in hyperkeratotic skin for the effective use of topical permethrin application in scabies.
New prey record of giant ladybird beetle Anisolemnia dilatata (Fabricius) (Coccinellidae: Coleoptera) feeding on Som Plant Aphid Aiceona sp.
Authors: Pal Suprakash , Gurung Biwash , Natarajan Ponnusamy , Medda Partha Sarathi
Published: January 2023

This paper reports the occurrence of giant ladybird beetle Anisolemnia dilatata (Fabricius) (Coccinellidae: Coleoptera) predating upon the aphid, Aiceona sp. infesting the Som plants, Persea bombycina Kost. from Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India. This is a new prey record for the Giant ladybird beetle.
Food habits of the Red Fox Vulpes vulpes (Mammalia: Carnivora: Canidae) in Dachigam National Park of the Kashmir Himalaya, India
Authors: Kulsum Ahmad Bhat  , Bhat Bilal A. , Ganai Bashir A. , Aamir Majeed  , Khurshid Naziya , Muniza Manzoor
Published: January 2023

Food habits of the Red Fox Vulpes vulpes were studied in Dachigam National Park of the Kashmir Himalaya from December 2017 to November 2018 by scat analysis. A total of 246 scats were collected across seasons from different habitat types of the park. The diet of the Red Fox was characterized by a wider prey spectrum with small rodents, plants, and Himalayan Grey Langur Semnopithecus ajax as the major food items. The dietary behaviour showed slight seasonal variation with more invertebrates and plant material (fruits, berries, & grasses) during spring and summer. The food niche of the canid was wider in the warm season than in the cold season. Diet analysis revealed substantial use of anthropogenic food sources (human refuse and livestock carrion) by the Red Fox. The frequency of occurrence of human refuse and livestock carrion in the scats of the canid species varied seasonally. The results show that the Red Fox is an opportunistic feeder, and capable of adapting to a variety of dietary items.
Asiatic Black Bear Ursus thibetanus attacks in Kashmir Valley, India
Authors: Mir Aaliya , Shanmugavelu Swaminathan  , Rashid Y. Naqash  , Sharp Thomas , Attur Shanmugam Arun
Published: January 2023

Asiatic Black Bear attacks are reported rarely throughout the majority of their global range; however, this has not been the case in the Kashmir Valley where over the past 20–30 years attacks have been relatively common. There are several causes for the high number of attacks, though the foremost reason likely stems from the conversion of natural habitat to orchards and agricultural fields. Asiatic Black Bears actively crop raid orchards and agricultural areas putting them into close proximity to humans. The Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife Protection Department has collected data on 2,357 Asiatic Black Bear attacks in the Kashmir Valley between 2000 and 2020. A total of 2,243 (95.2%) resulted in injury and 114 (4.8%) resulted in death. The majority of injuries were reported as minor (57.4%, n=1126), 42.4% (n=832) as grievous, and 1.2% (n=21) caused permanent disability. The highest proportion of attacks occurred from July through November, coinciding with the harvesting season, and the least occurred from December through March, coinciding with when most Asiatic Black Bears are hibernating. Victims of bear attacks were most often working in farms or orchards, and were mostly between the ages of 31–40 years old. Most attacks occurred in the morning hours when people first entered the orchards or agricultural fields to work. The frequency of attacks has declined since 2016, which could be attributed to retaliation killings, better management by the wildlife department, and the engagement of NGO’s with local people to create bear awareness and teach safety measures.
Inhibition of Intimal Thickening By PRH (Proline-Rich Homeodomain) in Mice
Authors: Reolizo Lien M. , Williams Helen , Wadey Kerry , Frankow Aleksandra , Li Ze , Gaston Kevin , Jayaraman Padma-Sheela , Johnson Jason L. , George Sarah J.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Late vein graft failure is caused by intimal thickening resulting from endothelial cell (EC) damage and inflammation which promotes vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) dedifferentiation, migration, and proliferation. Nonphosphorylatable PRH (proline-rich homeodomain) S163C:S177C offers enhanced stability and sustained antimitotic effect. Therefore, we investigated whether adenovirus-delivered PRH S163C:S177C protein attenuates intimal thickening via VSMC phenotype modification without detrimental effects on ECs.

Methods:

PRH S163C:S177C was expressed in vitro (human saphenous vein–VSMCs and human saphenous vein–ECs) and in vivo (ligated mouse carotid arteries) by adenoviruses. Proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were quantified and phenotype was assessed using Western blotting for contractile filament proteins and collagen gel contraction. EC inflammation was quantified using VCAM (vascular cell adhesion protein)-1, ICAM (intercellular adhesion molecule)-1, interleukin-6, and monocyte chemotactic factor-1 measurement and monocyte adhesion. Next Generation Sequencing was utilized to identify novel downstream mediators of PRH action and these and intimal thickening were investigated in vivo.

Results:

PRH S163C:S177C inhibited proliferation, migration, and apoptosis and promoted contractile phenotype (enhanced contractile filament proteins and collagen gel contraction) compared with virus control in human saphenous vein–VSMCs. PRH S163C:S177C expression in human saphenous vein–ECs significantly reduced apoptosis, without affecting cell proliferation and migration, while reducing TNF (tumor necrosis factor)-α–induced VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 and monocyte adhesion and suppressing interleukin-6 and monocyte chemotactic factor-1 protein levels. PRH S163C:S177C expression in ligated murine carotid arteries significantly impaired carotid artery ligation-induced neointimal proliferation and thickening without reducing endothelial coverage. Next Generation Sequencing revealed STAT-1 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 1) and HDAC-9 (histone deacetylase 9) as mediators of PRH action and was supported by in vitro and in vivo analyses.

Conclusions:

We observed PRH S163C:S177C attenuated VSMC proliferation, and migration and enhanced VSMC differentiation at least in part via STAT-1 and HDAC-9 signaling while promoting endothelial repair and anti-inflammatory properties. These findings highlight the potential for PRH S163C:S177C to preserve endothelial function whilst suppressing intimal thickening, and reducing late vein graft failure.
Endothelial Damage Arising From High Salt Hypertension Is Elucidated by Vascular Bed Systematic Profiling
Authors: Vinaiphat Arada , Pazhanchamy Kalailingam , JebaMercy Gnanasekaran , Ngan SoFong Cam , Leow Melvin Khee-Shing , Ho Hee Hwa , Gao Yong-Gui , Lim Kah Leong , Richards A. Mark , de Kleijn Dominique P.V. , Chen Christopher P. , Kalaria Raj N. , Liu Jian , O’Leary Deborah D. , McCarthy Neil E. , Sze Siu Kwan
Published: January 2023

Background:

Considerable evidence links dietary salt intake with the development of hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, and increased risk of stroke and coronary heart disease. Despite extensive epidemiological and basic science interrogation of the relationship between high salt (HS) intake and blood pressure, it remains unclear how HS impacts endothelial cell (EC) and vascular structure in vivo. This study aims to elucidate HS-induced vascular pathology using a differential systemic decellularization in vivo approach.

Methods:

We performed systematic molecular characterization of the endothelial glycocalyx and EC proteomes in mice with HS (8%) diet–induced hypertension versus healthy control animals. Isolation of eGC and EC compartments was achieved using differential systemic decellularization in vivo methodology. Altered protein expression in hypertensive compared to normal mice was characterized by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Proteomic results were validated using functional assays, microscopic imaging, and histopathologic evaluation.

Results:

Proteomic analysis revealed a significant downregulation of eGC and associated proteins in HS diet–induced hypertensive mice (among 1696 proteins identified in this group, 723 were markedly decreased in abundance, while only 168 were increased in abundance. Bioinformatic analysis indicated substantial derangement of the eGC layer, which was subsequently confirmed by fluorescent and electron microscopy assessment of vessel damage ex vivo. In the EC fraction, HS-induced hypertension significantly altered protein mediators of contractility, metabolism, mechanotransduction, renal function, and the coagulation cascade. In particular, we observed dysregulation of integrin subunits α2, α2b, and α5, which was associated with arterial wall inflammation and substantial infiltration of CD68+ monocyte-macrophages. Consequently, HS-induced hypertensive mice also displayed reduced vascular integrity of multiple organs including lungs, kidneys, and heart.

Conclusions:

These findings provide novel molecular insight into HS-induced structural changes in eGC and EC composition that may increase cardiovascular risk and potentially guide the development of new diagnostics and therapeutic interventions.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Improves Outcomes in Patients With Intraventricular Conduction Delay But Not Right Bundle Branch Block: A Patient-Level Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Friedman Daniel J. , Al-Khatib Sana M. , Dalgaard Frederik , Fudim Marat , Abraham William T. , Cleland John G.F. , Curtis Anne B. , Gold Michael R. , Kutyifa Valentina , Linde Cecilia , Tang Anthony S. , Ali-Ahmed Fatima , Olivas-Martinez Antonio , Inoue Lurdes Y.T. , Sanders Gillian D.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Benefit from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) varies by QRS characteristics; individual randomized trials are underpowered to assess benefit for relatively small subgroups.

Methods:

The authors analyzed patient-level data from pivotal CRT trials (MIRACLE [Multicenter InSync Randomized Clinical Evaluation], MIRACLE-ICD [Multicenter InSync ICD Randomized Clinical Evaluation], MIRACLE-ICD II [Multicenter InSync ICD Randomized Clinical Evaluation II], REVERSE [Resynchronization Reverses Remodeling in Systolic Left Ventricular Dysfunction], RAFT [Resynchronization-Defibrillation for Ambulatory Heart Failure], BLOCK-HF [Biventricular Versus Right Ventricular Pacing in Heart Failure Patients with Atrioventricular Block], COMPANION [Comparison of Medical Therapy, Pacing and Defibrillation in Heart Failure], and MADIT-CRT [Multicenter Automatic Defibrillator Implantation Trial – Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy]) using Bayesian Hierarchical Weibull survival regression models to assess CRT benefit by QRS morphology (left bundle branch block [LBBB], n=4549; right bundle branch block [RBBB], n=691; and intraventricular conduction delay [IVCD], n=1024) and duration (with 150-ms partition). The continuous relationship between QRS duration and CRT benefit was also examined within subgroups defined by QRS morphology. The primary end point was time to heart failure hospitalization (HFH) or death; a secondary end point was time to all-cause death.

Results:

Of 6264 patients included, 25% were women, the median age was 66 [interquartile range, 58 to 73] years, and 61% received CRT (with or without an implantable cardioverter defibrillator). CRT was associated with an overall lower risk of HFH or death (hazard ratio [HR], 0.73 [credible interval (CrI), 0.65 to 0.84]), and in subgroups of patients with QRS ≥150 ms and either LBBB (HR, 0.56 [CrI, 0.48 to 0.66]) or IVCD (HR, 0.59 [CrI, 0.39 to 0.89]), but not RBBB (HR 0.97 [CrI, 0.68 to 1.34];
P
interaction
<0.001). No significant association for CRT with HFH or death was observed when QRS was <150 ms (regardless of QRS morphology) or in the presence of RBBB. Similar relationships were observed for all-cause death.

Conclusions:

CRT is associated with reduced HFH or death in patients with QRS ≥150 ms and LBBB or IVCD, but not for those with RBBB. Aggregating RBBB and IVCD into a single “non-LBBB” category when selecting patients for CRT should be reconsidered.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifiers: NCT00271154, NCT00251251, NCT00267098, and NCT00180271.
Stroke Learning Health Systems: A Topical Narrative Review With Case Examples
Authors: Cadilhac Dominique A. , Bravata Dawn M. , Bettger Janet Prvu , Mikulik Robert , Norrving Bo , Uvere Ezinne O. , Owolabi Mayowa , Ranta Annemarei , Kilkenny Monique F.
Published: January 2023

To our knowledge, the adoption of Learning Health System (LHS) concepts or approaches for improving stroke care, patient outcomes, and value have not previously been summarized. This topical review provides a summary of the published evidence about LHSs applied to stroke, and case examples applied to different aspects of stroke care from high and low-to-middle income countries. Our attempt to systematically identify the relevant literature and obtain real-world examples demonstrated the dissemination gaps, the lack of learning and action for many of the related LHS concepts across the continuum of care but also elucidated the opportunity for continued dialogue on how to study and scale LHS advances. In the field of stroke, we found only a few published examples of LHSs and health systems globally implementing some selected LHS concepts, but the term is not common. A major barrier to identifying relevant LHS examples in stroke may be the lack of an agreed taxonomy or terminology for classification. We acknowledge that health service delivery settings that leverage many of the LHS concepts do so operationally and the lessons learned are not shared in peer-reviewed literature. It is likely that this topical review will further stimulate the stroke community to disseminate related activities and use keywords such as learning health system so that the evidence base can be more readily identified.
School-Based Health Care and Absenteeism: Evidence from Telemedicine
Authors: Komisarow Sarah , Hemelt Steven W.
Published: January 2023

The prevalence of school-based health care has increased markedly over the past decade. We study a modern mode of school-based health care, telemedicine, that offers the potential to reach places and populations with historically low access to such care. School-based telemedicine clinics (SBTCs) provide students with access to health care during the regular school day through private videoconferencing with a health care provider. We exploit variation over time in SBTC openings across schools in three rural districts in North Carolina. We find that school-level SBTC access reduces the likelihood that a student is chronically absent by 2.5 percentage points (29 percent) and reduces the number of days absent by about 0.8 days (10 percent). Relatedly, access to an SBTC increases the likelihood of math and reading test-taking by between 1.8 and 2.0 percentage points (about 2 percent). Heterogeneity analyses suggest that these effects are driven by male students. Finally, we see suggestive evidence that SBTC access reduces violent or weapons-related disciplinary infractions among students but has little influence on other forms of misbehavior.
Two new deep-water species of squat lobsters (Crustacea: Anomura: Galatheoidea) from the Central and Southwest Indian Ridge
Authors: PERIASAMY RENGAIYAN , KURIAN PALAYIL JOHN , INGOLE BABAN
Published: January 2023

The high diversity and endemism of benthic species on seamounts are extensively documented. Although the number of squat lobster species from seamount habitats has increased, species from the Central Indian Ridge (CIR) and Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR) systems remain largely unknown. The hydrothermally active Indian Ridge system harbours potential sites for future Seafloor Massive Sulphides (SMS) mining. Since seabed mining may create a long-lasting impact on the deep-sea ecosystems, it could harm the unique deep-sea life associated with mineral deposits. This study identified two undescribed squat lobster specimens: one from the genus Munidopsis Whiteaves, 1874 from the CIR system in water depths ranging from 1981 to 2033 m, and one from the genus Typhlonida Macpherson & Baba in Machordom, Ahyong, Andreakis, Baba, Buckley, Garcia-Jimenez, McCallum, Rodriguez-Flores & Macpherson, 2022 from the SWIR system in depths ranging from 2070 to 2404 m. Both new species may be distinguished morphologically and genetically based on the partial mitochondrial (mtCOI) gene. To generate baseline environmental and biodiversity data, efforts for accurate sampling and correct identification of biological species are required
Two new genera of Euophryini from southern China and Malaysia (Araneae, Salticidae, Salticinae)
Authors: YU KUN , WANG CHENG , MADDISON WAYNE P. , ZHANG JUNXIA
Published: January 2023

Two new genera of euophryine jumping spiders in the Laufeia group are established for species from Southeast Asia: Amoenema Yu & Zhang, gen. nov. and Lokina Yu, Maddison & Zhang, gen. nov., with descriptions of 12 new species: Amoenema erhai Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀, type species), A. liuae Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), A. zizhongi Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), Lokina blombergi Yu, Maddison & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), L. chiyou Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀, type species), L. fuxi Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), L. kubah Yu, Maddison & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂), L. nyuewa Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), L. pixi Yu, Maddison & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂), L. tamasi Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), L. wuyi Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂), L. zhishengi Yu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂). In addition, three new combinations are proposed: Amoenema robusta (Lei & Peng, 2012) comb. nov. (transferred from Euophrys C. L. Koch, 1834), Lokina eximia (Zhang & Maddison, 2012) comb. nov. (transferred from Laufeia Simon, 1889) and L. tengchongensis (Lei & Peng, 2012) comb. nov. (transferred from Chalcovietnamicus Marusik, 1991).
Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome by Two Silver(I)-Based Coordination Polymers by Modulating the Release of Chronic Inflammatory Cytokines
Authors: Qin Ling , Zhang Zhi-An , Jing Rui
Published: January 2023

Two new coordination polymers, namely, [Ag(L1)(CN)] (1) and {[Ag(L2)] · (PF6).(DMF)2} (2), were successfully obtained using the N-donor ligands, L1 {L1 = 4-(2-{10-[2-(pyridin-4-yl)ethyl]-4a,10-dihydroanthracen-9-yl}ethyl)pyridine} and L2 {L2
= 4-(4,5-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)-N,N-bis[4-(4,5-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)phenyl]aniline}, respectively, which were coordinated with metal central silver ions under different hydrothermal conditions. The biological activities of the new compounds in polycystic ovary syndrome therapy
was determined, followed by mechanistic exploration. ELISA was conducted to measure the contents of inflammatory cytokines in the plasma. Then, activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway was also determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction.
Rapamycin Inhibits Human Oral Cancer Cell Growth via the Hsa-miR-199a-3p/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Hou Yujiao , Lv Feifei , Zhai Wenjing , Wang Weina , Duan Yanhao , Liu Shanshan , Qiu Yongle
Published: January 2023

Oral cancer is one of the 10 most common cancers in the world, which brings heavy burden for public health. Although several drugs were recommended to treat oral cancer, while it is needed to investigate the pathogenesis and develop novel treatment for this type of cancer. In the study, two oral cancer cell lines including HSC-6 and CAL-27 were used. It was found that rapamycin potently inhibited proliferation of HSC-6 and CAL-27 cells. Rapamycin significantly induced apoptosis and reduced cell viability of HSC-6 and CAL-27 cells. Rapamycin inhibited growth of oral cancer cells via mTOR. Moreover, it was found that mTOR was highly expresses in PBMC of oral cancer patients compared with PBMC of healthy controls. Rapamycin increased expression of miR-199a-3p and miR-199-3p was highly expression in oral cancer patients. Importantly, it was confirmed that rapamycin suppressed proliferation and promoted apoptosis of oral cancer cells via miR-199a-3p. The findings of the present study will provide useful insights for developing novel therapies of oral cancer.
Anthropogenic Influence on the 2021 Wettest September in Northern China
Authors: Hu Ting , Sun Ying , Zhang Xuebin , Wang Dongqian
Published: January 2023

Greenhouse gas forcing has increased the likelihood of events like the 2021 wettest September in northern China by approximately twofold, while anthropogenic aerosols play a relatively minor suppressing role.
Understanding Meteorological Changes Following Severe Defoliation during a Strong Hurricane Landfall: Insights from Hurricane Michael (2018)
Authors: Nelson Shannon A. , Miller Paul W.
Published: January 2023

Despite prompting persistent meteorological changes, severe defoliation following a tropical cyclone (TC) landfall has received relatively little attention and is largely overlooked within hurricane preparedness and recovery planning. Changes to near-track vegetation can modify evapotranspiration for months after tropical cyclone passage, thereby altering boundary layer moisture and energy fluxes that drive the local water cycle. This study seeks to understand potential spatial and temporal changes in defoliation-driven meteorological conditions using Hurricane Michael (2018) as a testbed. In this sensitivity study, two Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model simulations, a normal-landscape and a post-TC scenario, are compared to determine how a defoliation scar placed along Michael’s path alters surface heat fluxes, temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation near the storm’s track. In the month following the foliage reduction, WRF resolves a 0.7°C 2-m temperature increase, with the greatest changes occurring at night. Meanwhile, the simulations produce changes to the sensible and latent heat fluxes of +8.3 and −13.9 W m−2, respectively, while average relative humidity decreases from 73% to 70.1%. Although the accumulated precipitation in the defoliated simulation was larger along a narrow corridor paralleling and downwind of the hurricane track, neither simulation satisfactorily replicated post-Michael precipitation patterns as recorded by NCEP Stage IV QPE, casting doubt as to whether the downwind enhancement was exclusively due to the defoliation scar. This sensitivity analysis provides insight into the types of changes that may be possible following rapid and widespread defoliation during a TC landfall.
Lateral Circulation in an Elongated Curved Tidal Channel
Authors: Cheng Peng
Published: January 2023

The dynamic theory of curvature-induced lateral circulation has been developed for open channel flows but not for oscillatory tides. A linear three-dimensional analytical model was developed to investigate the lateral circulation in an elongated tidal channel with mildly curved bends of which the radius of curvature is larger than the width. The curvature-induced lateral circulation has two components with the same amplitude, namely, a periodic component having an overtide frequency and a steady component. The combination of the two components allows the strength of the lateral circulation to vary periodically and the rotation direction to be unchanged during a tidal period. Friction modifies the strength and structure of the lateral circulation. The phase between the lateral flow and streamwise tidal flow decreases with increasing friction, indicating that the two flows are not necessarily in phase unless friction is strong. The lateral circulations driven by the Coriolis and curvature centrifugal forces augment each other during one phase and compete in the opposite phase, and the relative importance of the two circulations is determined by the Rossby number and friction. The adaptation time is the same for spinup and spindown of the curvature-induced lateral circulation and is determined by water depth and vertical eddy viscosity. The estimation of the adaptation time depends on the leading modes because the transition solution of the curvature-induced lateral circulation comprises a series of cosine modes. These results provide a theoretical basis for interpreting curvature-induced lateral circulation in tidal channels and coastal headlands.

Significance Statement

The dynamic theory of curvature-induced lateral circulation in a tidal flow remains unexplored. The purpose of this study is to understand the essentials of curvature-induced lateral circulation in an elongated tidal channel using a three-dimensional analytical model. The results showed that the curvature-induced lateral circulation has two components with the same amplitude: a periodic component having an overtide frequency and a steady component. This is significantly different from the curvature-induced lateral circulation associated with open channel flows, which is steady and in phase with the streamwise flow. Future work may show the role of curvature-induced lateral circulation in streamwise dynamics and mass transport.
(Lack of) Competition, Coordination, and Information Sharing in the Pork Industry: United States, 2009–2020
Authors: Donna Javier D. , Walsh Anita N.
Published: January 2023

In 2020, an antitrust lawsuit was filed against the Pork Integrators alleging a §1 Sherman Act violation. At the center of the Lawsuit, there is an alleged exchange of atomistic information about the Pork integrators’ operations using Agri Stats, Inc. as a clearinghouse. We use the Supreme Court benchmark in American Column & Lumber to discuss two questions that arise from the Lawsuit. The first is whether the association of Pork Integrators and Agri Stats, Inc., resulted in the restraint of interstate commerce, the main specific issue at stake in the pork Lawsuit. The second is whether information-exchange agreements using clearinghouses like Agri Stats, Inc., lessen competition and offend U.S. antitrust law, a more general issue beyond the pork Lawsuit. We find that there appears to be ample evidence in the Lawsuit to merit prosecution regarding both trade restraints and information-sharing agreements. We conclude by discussing the role of the Agencies in setting the standards in information-exchange agreements.
Facial Recognition Technology in Policing: A National Survey of Public Support for This Technology and Privacy/Safety Concerns
Authors: Miethe Terance D. , Dudinskaya Tanya , Forepaugh Christopher , Sousa William H.
Published: January 2023

Using a national sample of U.S. adults, this study examines the level of public support for facial recognition technology (FRT) and its correlates across different policing activities. Multivariate analyses are conducted to assess how public support for FRT usage is influenced by individuals’ perceptions of its effectiveness in enhancing public safety, privacy concerns about its usage, and other attitudes (e.g., trust in police, worry about crime victimization). Both public safety and privacy beliefs are found to influence support for FRT usage, but the effects of privacy concerns also vary across different policing contexts (e.g., high-profile policing situations, “order-maintenance” policing) and the level of trust in police. These results are discussed in terms of their implications for future research and public policy on FRT usage.
Procedural Fairness and Fear of Crime: Extending the Procedural Justice Theoretical Model Under the Chinese Context
Authors: Liu Jianhong , Wu Guangzhen
Published: January 2023

This study examines the relationship between procedural fairness and fear of crime in the context of China. Based on original data collected from a random sample of 2,245 residents in a southeast city in China, this study reveals a salient influence of procedural fairness on fear of crime, reflected by its significant positive effects on not only emotional-based fear but also cognitive fear (perceived risk of victimization). Results also suggest that perceived neighborhood cohesion and police trustworthiness partially mediate the relationship between procedural fairness and the outcome variable. The findings of this study demonstrate broad consequences of procedural fairness (a meaningful social impact within the community) that go beyond its implications for legitimacy and compliance.
Towards Praxes of the Region: Agential Constructivist Approaches to Regionalisms
Authors: Grant J. Andrew
Published: January 2023

While both formal and informal regionalisms examine the political ramifications of economic flows of capital, goods, and people, there is a blurring of such conceptual dichotomies in practice. Hence, in order to offer a more accurate account of the distinctions and overlap between the formal and informal – and to rectify the tendency to overlook the agency of African state actors and non-state actors – this article offers an agential constructivist approach that seeks to advance a praxis – or praxes – of the region. To that end, the article advances the concept of bifurcated interregionalisms as a means of analyzing cases of regional dynamics and regionalisms in Southern Africa and East Africa. The article concludes by offering some reflections on the future of regionalisms in an emerging global order in flux whereby illiberal and xenophobic variants of regionalisms compete with the liberal and cosmopolitan versions.
Contributing Factors to the Housing Cost Burden of Female-Headed Households
Authors: Brown-Robertson LaTanya N. , Ntembe Augustin
Published: January 2023

While the United States housing cost burden has reached historically high levels for all households in recent years, female-headed households with children tend to bear a significant portion this burden. This study uses data from the 2015 and 2019 American Housing Survey to explore the disparities in housing cost burdens among female-headed households. In general, the results from the fixed effect model reveal that housing assistance significantly decreases the female-headed household's housing cost burden, while renting tends to increase the female householders’ housing burden compared to owning. The fixed effect parameters suggest that single Black mothers experienced a high housing cost burden in 2015 and 2019, more than any other category of Black female-headed households for both years. Likewise, single Hispanic mothers also face large housing cost burdens, which increased from 2015 to 2019. This finding should guide inquiries into the impact of changes in federal policies on the immigrant status on the rising housing cost burden of the Hispanic female cohort. The study's findings suggest an increase in public housing and rental assistance programs that benefit single black mothers with children and other vulnerable households.
Love in the space–time of inequality: Attachment and detachment across unequal lives
Authors: Strong Samuel
Published: January 2023

This article examines the changing experience of love at a time of deepening inequalities. Drawing on the ‘love story’ of one resident of London’s Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea – arguably the UK’s most unequal space – it builds a relational account of love to describe the forms of attachment and detachment that accompany everyday life in an increasingly divided place. This approach signals three wider contributions. First, by tracing love through life course and life world, this article conceptualises the sustained and far-reaching way inequalities are lived and felt in everyday life. Second, the foregrounding of love stories as methodology highlights the roles of agency and narrative in how we tell and write about inequalities. In drawing these points together, this article thirdly conceptualises inequality as processual, situated and contested – as an emergent process of ‘becoming unequal’ through which we can trace shifting relations between space, time and power.