bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smoking cessation, but not reduction, reduces cardiovascular disease incidence
Authors: Jeong Su-Min , Jeon Keun Hye , Shin Dong Wook , Han Kyungdo , Kim Dahye , Park Sang Hyun , Cho Mi Hee , Lee Cheol Min , Nam Ki-Woong , Lee Seung Pyo
Published: August 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the association of smoking cessation and reduction with risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods and results

A total of 897 975 current smokers aged ≥40 years who had undergone two consecutive national health examinations (in 2009 and 2011) were included. Participants were classified as quitters (20.6%), reducers I (≥50% reduction, 7.3%), reducers II (20–50% reduction, 11.6%), sustainers (45.7%), and increasers (≥20% increase, 14.5%). During 5 575 556 person-years (PY) of follow-up, 17 748 stroke (3.2/1000 PY) and 11 271 myocardial infarction (MI) (2.0/1000 PY) events were identified. Quitters had significantly decreased risk of stroke [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.77 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74–0.81; absolute risk reduction (ARR) −0.37, 95% CI −0.43 to −0.31] and MI (aHR 0.74, 95% CI 0.70–0.78; ARR −0.27, 95% CI −0.31 to −0.22) compared to sustainers after adjustment for demographic factors, comorbidities, and smoking status. The risk of stroke and MI incidence in reducers I (aHR 1.02, 95% CI 0.97–1.08 and aHR 0.99, 95% CI 0.92–1.06, respectively) and reducers II (aHR 1.00, 95% CI 0.95–1.05 and aHR 0.97, 95% CI 0.92–1.04, respectively) was not significantly different from the risk in sustainers. Further analysis with a subgroup who underwent a third examination (in 2013) showed that those who quit at the second examination but had starting smoking again by the third examination had 42–69% increased risk of CVD compared to sustained quitters.

Conclusions

Smoking cessation, but not reduction, was associated with reduced CVD risk. Our study emphasizes the importance of sustained quitting in terms of CVD risk reduction.
Adverse events in patients with a left ventricular assist device: are patient-reported outcomes affected?
Authors: Thompson Jessica Harman , Faulkner Kenneth , Lee Christopher
Published: August 2021

Aims

Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) are used to treat advanced heart failure, and the use of these devices in ever increasing, with over 19 000 people having had a device. However, during device therapy over 50% of patients will have some type of major adverse event. The aim of this study was to examine whether having a major adverse event, including major infection and major bleed, would alter patient-reported outcomes over time, including depressive symptoms and health-related quality of life.

Methods and results

T-tests and χ2 analyses were used to determine significant differences between patients who had an adverse event and those who did not. Latent curve growth modelling was used to evaluate change over time in those patients with and without and adverse event. The only difference between those with and without an adverse event was pre-implant depressive symptoms and health-related quality of life. The trajectories of both groups were also similar, with only differences at the pre-implant time point.

Conclusion

In response to an adverse event occurring post-LVAD implantation, we found that patient-reported outcomes, including depressive symptoms and health-related quality of life were not significantly impacted.
Extremophilic taxa predominate in a microbial community of photovoltaic panels in a tropical region
Authors: Moura Juliane B , Delforno Tiago P , do Prado Pierre F , Duarte Iolanda C
Published: August 2021

Photovoltaic panels can be colonized by a highly diverse microbial diversity, despite life-threatening conditions. Although they are distributed worldwide, the microorganisms living on their surfaces have never been profiled in tropical regions using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing and PICRUst metagenome prediction of functional content. In this work, we investigated photovoltaic panels from two cities in southeast Brazil, Sorocaba and Itatiba, using these bioinformatics approach. Results showed that, despite significant differences in microbial diversity (p < 0.001), the taxonomic profile was very similar for both photovoltaic panels, dominated mainly by Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota and lower amounts of Cyanobacteria phyla. A predominance of Hymenobacter and Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum was observed at the genus level. We identified a microbial common core composed of Hymenobacter, Deinococcus, Sphingomonas, Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum, Craurococcus-Caldovatus, Massilia, Noviherbaspirillum and 1174-901-12 sharing genera. Predicted metabolisms focused on specific genes associated to radiation and desiccation resistance and pigments, were detected in members of the common core and among the most abundant genera. Our results suggested that taxonomic and functional profiles investigated were consistent with the harsh environment that photovoltaic panels represent. Moreover, the presence of stress genes in the predicted functional content was a preliminary evidence that microbes living there are a possibly source of metabolites with biotechnological interest.
nf-LO: A Scalable, Containerized Workflow for Genome-to-Genome Lift Over
Authors: Talenti Andrea , Prendergast James
Published: August 2021

The increasing availability of new genome assemblies often comes with a paucity of associated genomic annotations, limiting the range of studies that can be performed. A common workaround is to lift over annotations from better annotated genomes. However, generating the files required to perform a lift over is computationally and labor intensive and only a limited number are currently publicly available.

Here we present nf-LO (nextflow-LiftOver), a containerized and scalable Nextflow pipeline that enables lift overs within and between any species for which assemblies are available. nf-LO will consequently facilitate data interpretation across a broad range of genomic studies.
Cold Survival and Its Molecular Mechanisms in a Locally Adapted Nematode Population
Authors: Wang Wenke , Flury Anna G , Garrison Jennifer L , Brem Rachel B
Published: August 2021

Since Darwin, evolutionary biologists have sought to understand the drivers and mechanisms of natural trait diversity. The field advances toward this goal with the discovery of phenotypes that vary in the wild, their relationship to ecology, and their underlying genes. Here, we established resistance to extreme low temperature in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis briggsae as an ecological and evolutionary model system. We found that C. briggsae strains of temperate origin were strikingly more cold-resistant than those isolated from tropical localities. Transcriptional profiling revealed expression patterns unique to the resistant temperate ecotype, including dozens of genes expressed at high levels even after multiple days of cold-induced physiological slowdown. Mutational analysis validated a role in cold resistance for seven such genes. These findings highlight a candidate case of robust, genetically complex adaptation in an emerging model nematode, and shed light on the mechanisms at play.
CLAMP regulates zygotic genome activation in Drosophila embryos
Authors: Colonnetta Megan M , Abrahante Juan E , Schedl Paul , Gohl Daryl M , Deshpande Girish
Published: August 2021

Embryonic patterning is critically dependent on zygotic genome activation (ZGA). In Drosophila melanogaster embryos, the pioneer factor Zelda directs ZGA, possibly in conjunction with other factors. Here, we have explored the novel involvement of Chromatin-Linked Adapter for MSL Proteins (CLAMP) during ZGA. CLAMP binds thousands of sites genome-wide throughout early embryogenesis. Interestingly, CLAMP relocates to target promoter sequences across the genome when ZGA is initiated. Although there is a considerable overlap between CLAMP and Zelda binding sites, the proteins display distinct temporal dynamics. To assess whether CLAMP occupancy affects gene expression, we analyzed transcriptomes of embryos zygotically compromised for either clamp or zelda and found that transcript levels of many zygotically activated genes are similarly affected. Importantly, compromising either clamp or zelda disrupted the expression of critical segmentation and sex determination genes bound by CLAMP (and Zelda). Furthermore, clamp knockdown embryos recapitulate other phenotypes observed in Zelda-depleted embryos, including nuclear division defects, centrosome aberrations, and a disorganized actomyosin network. Based on these data, we propose that CLAMP acts in concert with Zelda to regulate early zygotic transcription.
Longitudinal Changes in Adiposity and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Among Older Men
Authors: Bauer Scott R , Harrison Stephanie L , Cawthon Peggy M , Senders Angela , Kenfield Stacey A , Suskind Anne M , McCulloch Charles E , Covinsky Kenneth , Marshall Lynn M
Published: August 2021

Background

Adiposity increases risk for male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), although longitudinal studies have produced conflicting results. No prior studies have evaluated longitudinal associations of changes in adiposity with concurrent LUTS severity among older men.

Methods

We used repeated adiposity measurements from dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), body mass index (BMI), and American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUASI) measured at 4 study visits over a 9-year period among 5 949 men enrolled in the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) study. Linear mixed effect models adjusted for age, health-related behaviors, and comorbidities were created to evaluate the association between baseline and change in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) area, total fat mass, and BMI with change in LUTS severity measured by the AUASI.

Results

A nonlinear association was observed between baseline VAT area and change in AUASI: men in baseline VAT tertile (T) 2 had a lower annual increase in AUASI score compared to men in T1 and T3 (T2 vs T1: β = −0.07; 95% CI −0.12, −0.03; p = .008; T3 vs T1: NS) but differences were small. No significant associations were observed between change in VAT area and change in AUASI score. Neither baseline tertiles nor change in total fat mass or BMI were associated with change in AUASI score.

Conclusions

Changes in VAT area, total fat mass, and BMI were not associated with change in LUTS severity in this cohort. Thus, despite other health benefits, interventions targeting adiposity alone are unlikely to be effective for preventing or treating LUTS among older men.
SS-31 efficacy in a mouse model of Friedreich ataxia by upregulation of frataxin expression
Authors: Liu Yutong , Cai Jing , Shen Jiaqi , Dong Weichen , Xu Li , Fang Maoxin , Lin Yishan , Liu Jiali , Ding Yibing , Qiao Tong , Li Kuanyu
Published: August 2021

Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a serious hereditary neurodegenerative disease, mostly accompanied with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, caused by the reduced expression of frataxin (FXN). However, there is still no effective treatment. Our previous studies have shown that SS-31, a mitochondrion-targeted peptide, is capable to upregulate the expression of FXN and improve the mitochondrial function in cells derived from FRDA patients. To further explore the potential of SS-31, we used the GAA expansion-based models, including Y47 and YG8R (Fxn KIKO) mice, primary neurons and macrophages from the mice and cells derived from FRDA patients. After once-daily intraperitoneal injection of 1 mg/kg SS-31 for 1 month, we observed the significant improvement of motor function. The vacuolation in dorsal root ganglia, lesions in dentate nuclei and the lost thickness of myelin sheath of spinal cord were all repaired after SS-31 treatment. In addition, the hypertrophic cardiomyocytes and disarrayed abnormal Purkinje cells were dramatically reduced. Interestingly, we found that SS-31 treatment upregulated FXN expression not only at the translational levels as observed in cell culture but also at mRNA levels in vivo. Consequently, mitochondrial morphology and function were greatly improved in all tested tissues. Importantly, our data provided additional evidence that the maintenance of the therapeutic benefits needed continuous drug administration. Taken together, our findings have demonstrated the effectiveness of SS-31 treatment through the upregulation of FXN in vivo and offer guidance of the potential usage in the clinical application for FRDA.
Right minithoracotomy and resternotomy approach in patients undergoing a redo mitral valve procedure
Authors: Monsefi Nadejda , Makkawi Basel , Öztürk Mahmut , Alirezai Hossien , Alaj Eissa , Bakhtiary Farhad
Published: August 2021

OBJECTIVES

A minimally invasive approach via a thoracotomy is an alternative in challenging redo cardiac procedures. Our goal was to present our early postoperative experience with minimally invasive cardiac surgery via a right minithoracotomy (minimally invasive) and resternotomy in patients undergoing a mitral valve procedure as a reoperation.

METHODS

From 2017 until 2020, reoperation of the mitral valve was performed through a right-sided minithoracotomy in 27 patients and via a resternotomy in 26 patients. Patients with femoral vessels suitable for cannulation underwent a minimally invasive technique. Patients requiring concomitant procedures regarding the aortic valve were operated on via a resternotomy.

RESULTS

The mean age was 66 ± 12 years in the minimally invasive group and 65 ± 12 years in the whole cohort. The average Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 11 ± 10% in the minimally invasive group and 13 ± 9% in all patients. The majority of the patients underwent reoperation because of severe mitral valve insufficiency (48% and 55%, respectively). The mean time to reoperation was 7 ± 9 years (minimally invasive group). The 30-day mortality was 4% in the minimally invasive group and 11% in the whole cohort. The blood loss was 566 ± 359 ml in the minimally invasive group and 793 ± 410 ml totally. There were no postoperative neurological complications in the minimally invasive group and 1 (2%) in the whole cohort. Postoperative echocardiography revealed competent mitral valve/prosthesis function in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

A minimally invasive approach for a mitral valve reoperation in selected patients is a safe alternative to resternotomy with a low transfusion requirement. Both surgical techniques are associated with good postoperative outcomes.
Lipschitz Continuous Hypersurfaces with Prescribed Curvature and Asymptotic Boundary in Hyperbolic Space
Authors: Sui Zhenan , Sun Wei
Published: August 2021

We prove the existence of a complete locally Lipschitz continuous hypersurface in weak sense with prescribed Weingarten curvature and asymptotic boundary at infinity in hyperbolic space under certain assumptions.
Lebesgue Space Estimates for Spherical Maximal Functions on Heisenberg Groups
Authors: Roos Joris , Seeger Andreas , Srivastava Rajula
Published: August 2021

We prove $L^p\to L^q$ estimates for local maximal operators associated with dilates of codimension two spheres in Heisenberg groups; these are sharp up to two endpoints. The results can be applied to improve currently known bounds on sparse domination for global maximal operators. We also consider lacunary variants and extensions to Métivier groups.
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis of oral fosfomycin against Enterobacterales, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus spp. in an in vitro bladder infection model: impact on clinical breakpoints
Authors: Abbott Iain J , Mouton Johan W , Peleg Anton Y , Meletiadis Joseph
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Fosfomycin is an established treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), yet evidence supporting susceptibility breakpoints is limited. We examine the UTI susceptibility criteria.

Methods

Fosfomycin susceptibility, heteroresistance and in vitro growth in a bladder infection model, after a single 3 g dose of oral fosfomycin, were bridged to human pharmacokinetics with pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic and Monte Carlo analyses. Data from common uropathogens (24 Escherichia coli, 20 Klebsiella pneumoniae, 4 Enterobacter cloacae, 14 Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 8 Enterococcus faecalis and 8 Enterococcus faecium) were compared and analysed to ascertain species-specific PTA.

Results

Glucose-6-phosphate (G6P) increased MICs of E. coli, K. pneumoniae and E. cloacae (median 2-fold dilutions 3–5), but not of P. aeruginosa and Enterococcus. Atypical E. coli lacking G6P potentiation were killed in the bladder infection model despite high MICs (32–128 mg/L). Fosfomycin heteroresistance was uncommon in E. coli (MIC > 2 mg/L) but was detected in the majority of K. pneumoniae (MIC > 1 mg/L) and P. aeruginosa (MIC >8 mg/L). For these species, baseline heteroresistance was a strong predictor for treatment failure in the model. No heteroresistance was found in Enterococcus. The fAUC/MIC targets for stasis were 1935, 3393, 9968, 2738 and 283 for typical E. coli, K. pneumoniae, E. cloacae, P. aeruginosa and E. faecalis, respectively (synthetic human urine medium alone promoted a 1 log10 kill in E. faecium). A >95% PTA for stasis was only found at MIC ≤ epidemiological cut-off (ECOFF) for E. coli (4 mg/L). For other species, PTAs were low for WT populations.

Conclusions

With the exception of E. coli, fosfomycin is a poor target for other uropathogen species. A reduction in oral fosfomycin UTI breakpoints is supported.
Treatment efficacy for rectal Neisseria gonorrhoeae: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Lo Fiona Wing Yu , Kong Fabian Yuh Shiong , Hocking Jane S
Published: August 2021

Background

Rectal gonorrhoea is a common sexually transmitted infection with increasing antimicrobial resistance requiring optimization of available treatments.

Objectives

This systematic review aimed to assess the efficacy of current treatments, previously trialled treatments and new emerging treatments for rectal Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG).

Methods

Online bibliographic databases were search from 1 January 1946 to 14 August 2020. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with rectal NG data among participants aged 15 years or above and published in English were included. Random effects meta-analyses were used to estimate overall treatment efficacy, defined as microbiological cure. Sub-group analyses included stratifying by diagnostic assay, by dual versus monotherapy, and by currently recommended treatments (e.g. ceftriaxone ± azithromycin) versus previously trialled but not recommended treatments (e.g. amoxicillin) versus emerging treatments (e.g. zoliflodacin). The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020202998).

Results

54 studies including 1813 participants and 44 treatment regimens were identified. The overall summary treatment efficacy for rectal NG was 100.0% (95% CI: 99.9%–100.0%; I2 = 0.0%; P = 0.86). Efficacy estimates for monotherapies (100.0%; 95% CI: 99.88%–100.0%; I2 = 0.00%; P = 0.97) and dual therapies (100.0%; 95% CI: 97.65%–100.0%; I2 = 56.24%; P = 0.03) were similar. Efficacy was highest for current treatments (100.00%; 95% CI: 99.96%–100.00%; I2 = 0.00%; P = 0.98) versus emerging treatments (97.16%; 95% CI: 86.79%–100.00%; I2 = 0.00%; P = 0.84). There were no trials exclusively investigating rectal NG and small sample size was a limitation in most trials.

Conclusions

Currently recommended treatments containing ceftriaxone, as mono or dual therapy, are effective. Emerging drugs such as zoliflodacin may be potentially useful for rectal NG but further data are needed.
Making Sense of the Global: A Systematic Review of Globalizing and Localizing Dynamics in Refugee Governance
Authors: Brumat Leiza , Geddes Andrew , Pettrachin Andrea
Published: August 2021

What does the research literature on refugee and asylum migration tell us about the impact of global norms and standards on the protection of asylum-seekers and refugees? Do we see the effective reach of global standards or do we see responses to be dependent on ‘local’ contexts? We conducted a systematic review of the literature across six case countries on two key issues in contemporary refugee governance: ‘mobility’ and ‘containment’. After coding 252 documents, we found that while ‘the global’ has an important normative and aspirational resonance and is an identified source of rights expansion and increased mobility, there is significant evidence for the ‘localisation’ of global standards on asylum and refugee protection. This has important implications for the diffusion of global norms and standards. Our results also reveal a strong focus in the research literature on ‘containment’ policies and on the role of state actors in developing these policies.
A case of effective Delorme’s procedure for colonic mucosal prolapse after intersphincteric resection
Authors: Kohata Akihiro , Shimizu Wataru , Kochi Masatoshi , Takakura Yuji , Ohdan Hideki
Published: August 2021

Recent surgical technical improvements, such as endoscopic surgery with intersphincteric resection (ISR), could help avoid a permanent colostomy for patients with low-lying rectal tumors. However, the problems associated with anal dysfunction following ISR remain unresolved. We performed ISR and temporary ileostomy in a patient with low-lying rectal cancer. After evaluating the stability of the anastomosis, we planned to close the ileostomy, but the patient developed post-operative colonic mucosal prolapse (CMP). Although there are treatment methods available for CMP, there is no consensus on the treatment for post-operative CMP. In this case, we performed Delorme’s procedure because the method has been reported to have advantages in terms of improving post-operative anal function. Post-operative anorectal manometry showed improvement in maximum squeeze pressure, and the patient’s anal function improved; subsequently, ileostomy closure was performed. Delorme’s procedure may be useful for patients with CMP after ISR to achieve good post-operative anal function.
Challenging the Comparison in Montgomery Between Patients and ‘Consumers Exercising Choices’
Authors: Jackson Emily
Published: August 2021

In Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board, Lords Kerr and Reed referred to the increasing tendency to treat patients ‘as consumers exercising choices’. The question of whether it is helpful to regard patients as consumers is not a new one, but it arises most frequently in discussions about the commercialisation of healthcare. Comparing patients with consumers in relation to informed consent is an interesting development, especially in the light of the growing body of contract and consumer law scholarship which questions the extent to which information disclosures to consumers produce informed choices. If there is evidence that the duties of disclosure which are imposed on retailers, in order to redress the imbalance of knowledge and power in the consumer–retailer relationship, do not always fulfil their intended purpose, might this have any resonance for the duties of disclosure which are imposed upon healthcare professionals?
Not Dying Alone: the Need to Democratize Hospital Visitation Policies During Covid-19
Authors: Sudai Maayan
Published: August 2021

Of the many adverse outcomes that may result from the spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, known as COVID-19, one stands out as particularly vile: the experience of dying alone. Many healthcare facilities in the US and elsewhere adopted ‘No-Visitor Rules’ in an effort to contain the virus, but these rules mean that the countless people in nursing homes and hospital wards were isolated during their final hours of life. There is no epidemiological or US federal or state requirement to prohibit visitation to (and thereby isolate) dying patients—even those with COVID-19. Instead, constructing pandemic-specific visitation policies is usually left to the discretion of hospitals and healthcare providers. Such policies aim to limit the risk of exposure but fail to account for the individual and social costs associated with dying alone for patients, families, and frontline healthcare workers. As a result, the policies may be overly restrictive and actively cause harm. This article argues that US hospital visitation policies need to be democratised to include the perspectives of community members and patients. By drawing on existing patient rights frameworks, this article outlines several legal strategies to reconceptualise hospital visitation policies as a civil rights issue.
UOCS – VI. UVIT/AstroSat detection of low-mass white dwarf companions to four more blue stragglers in M67
Authors: Pandey Sindhu , Subramaniam Annapurni , Jadhav Vikrant V
Published: August 2021

Blue straggler stars (BSSs) in M67 have attracted attention from observations and theory to unravel their formation mechanisms. In the series of Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope (UVIT on AstroSat) study of Open clusters (UOCS), here we report the detection of hot companions to 4 more BSSs (WOCS 2013, WOCS 3013, WOCS 4006, and WOCS 5005), using Far-UV photometry obtained in two epochs from UVIT. We characterize the hot companions to be low to extremely low mass (LM/ELM) white dwarfs (WDs) with Teff ∼ 13–23 kK, R/R⊙ ∼ 0.035–0.051, M/M⊙ ∼ 0.19–0.3, and age ∼25–300 Myr using WD models. Two BSSs (WOCS 1025 and WOCS 3005) showed UV excess, and may have a hot companion, but we are unable to confirm/characterize. 13 BSSs are detected by UVIT in the two epochs of data, of the total 14 present in M67. We have performed detailed analysis on 10 BSSs, including our previous studies. Five BSSs are found to have LM/ELM WD companions, suggesting Case-B mass-transfers (MT) to be prevalent in M67 (with a lower limit of 37.5 per cent, 5/14), along with other mechanisms. Three BS+WD systems have orbital parameters outside the limit for stable MT as per the models. We speculate the following three possibilities – their orbits are altered due to cluster dynamics, some may be in triple systems with LM/ELM WDs in an unknown closer orbit, or a modified MT mechanism may be required to enable their formation.
Physical and numerical instabilities of radiatively cooling shocks in turbulent magnetized media
Authors: Badjin Dmitry A , Glazyrin Semyon I
Published: August 2021

We consider the influence of a fluctuating magnetic field on to the structure formation and instabilities of radiatively cooling blast waves. The study is based on an example of optically thin post-adiabatic supernova remnants (SNRs) in the homogeneous interstellar medium. By means of analytic estimations and full-scale multidimensional simulations, we investigate the roles of thermal, hydrodynamic (corrugation, pulsational, convective, Rayleigh–Taylor, linear and non-linear Vishniac) and numerical instabilities (‘carbuncle’ and grid-forced effects). It is found that of primary importance is the interplay of the thermal instability with quasi-regular and random components of the interstellar field. Bending fluctuations caused by the latter can be strongly amplified by non-linear Vishniac instability in the SNR regions where the regular component is almost normal to the shock. The instabilities driven by counter-directional pressure and density gradients are limited mostly to very narrow post-shock cooling layers, transient perturbations of the same short scales, and rather weakly magnetized environments. Some of these results can also be applied to radiative shocks separating optically thick media from thin or semitransparent ones. Several recommendations and requirements on numerical simulation techniques are formulated.
Disposable E-Cigarette Use Prevalence, Correlates, and Associations With Previous Tobacco Product Use in Young Adults
Authors: Leventhal Adam M , Dai Hongying , Barrington-Trimis Jessica L , Tackett Alayna P , Pedersen Eric R , Tran Denise D
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Novel, inexpensive disposable e-cigarettes widely sold in attractive flavors might be exempt from US federal regulations. To inform regulatory and public health priorities, this study examined young adult disposable e-cigarette use uptake among existing tobacco users versus non-users and possible use correlates that could be potential regulatory targets.

Aims and Methods

Prospective cohort data were analyzed in 2021. Among baseline (2018–2019) never disposable e-cigarette users (n = 1903; mean [SD]: 19.3 [0.8] years-old), we tested prospective associations of baseline tobacco product use with follow-up (2020) disposable e-cigarette use initiation, followed by stratified analyses distinguishing baseline exclusive and dual e-cigarette/combustible tobacco use. Exploratory cross-sectional associations of tobacco-related correlate with vaping frequency among current disposable users (n = 266) were tested.

Results

Follow-up ever disposable e-cigarette use initiation was higher among baseline former (22.1%) and current (50.2%) versus never (6.3%) rechargeable (non-disposable) e-cigarette users. In stratified analyses, follow-up disposable e-cigarette use initiation was 0% in baseline never-vaping exclusive current smokers, higher in baseline never-vaping former smokers versus never users of any tobacco product (18.2% vs. 5.7%; adjusted odds ratio [95% CI] = 3.9 [2.1–7.5]), and higher among baseline current dual users versus never-smoking exclusive current vapers (61.3% vs. 42.2%; adjusted odds ratio [95% CI] = 3.0 [1.5–6.0]). Among follow-up current disposable e-cigarette users (overall prevalence = 10.9%), using ice-flavored (vs. fruit/sweet-flavored) e-cigarettes (adjusted rate ratio [95% CI] = 1.5 [1.0–2.1]) and vaping dependence symptoms (adjusted rate ratio [95% CI] = 2.2 [1.5–3.2]) were cross-sectionally associated with more past-month disposable e-cigarette use days.

Conclusions

Young adult disposable e-cigarette use was of appreciable prevalence, including among tobacco product never users and former smokers. Regulation of disposable e-cigarettes, including ice-flavored products, might benefit young adult health.

Implications

Sales of disposable e-cigarette products increased significantly in the United States from 2019 to 2020. These products contain high nicotine concentrations and various flavors that may appeal to young people. This study provides the first evidence that disposable e-cigarette use may be common among young adults, including among tobacco product never users and former smokers. Frequency of disposable e-cigarette use was positively associated with using ice-flavored e-cigarettes and vaping dependence. Regulatory policies and enforcement strategies addressing disposable e-cigarettes merit consideration in young adult health policy and prevention priorities.
Prophylaxis against pneumocystis pneumonia in rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with b/tsDMARDs: insights from 3787 cases in the FIRST registry
Authors: Sonomoto Koshiro , Tanaka Hiroaki , Nguyen Tuan Manh , Yoshinari Hiroko , Nakano Kazuhisa , Nakayamada Shingo , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: August 2021

Objectives

The use of biologic and targeted synthetic (b/ts) DMARDs in the treatment of RA is increasing. Therefore, prevention of b/tsDMARDs-induced infection is important. Here we describe a prophylaxis protocol for preventing pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in RA patients treated with b/tsDMARDs.

Methods

The study subjects were 3787 RA patients from the FIRST registry. They were divided into cohort 1 (n = 807, requiring prophylaxis against PCP based on physicians’ assessment at the point of new treatment with or switch to b/tsDMARDs) and cohort 2 (n = 2980, receiving strategic PCP prophylaxis). The incidence and risk factors for PCP were investigated.

Results

Twenty-six PCP cases were observed throughout the study. After the introduction of strategic PCP prophylaxis, PCP incidence diminished from 0.51/100 person-years (PYs) to 0.21/100 PYs (risk ratio = 0.42). Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in combination (SMX–TMP) showed greater efficacy in the prevention of PCP than pentamidine inhalation (P <0.0001). The prophylaxis rate increased chronologically despite the falls in the average SMX–TMP dose and in the incidence of PCP. Subanalysis of the data for 929 patients from both groups who did not receive prophylaxis showed that old age, high BMI, coexisting lung diseases, low lymphocyte count, and low serum IgG levels increased the risk of PCP development. Development of PCP could be predicted (using an equation based on these variables) in patients not treated with glucocorticoids [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.910)], but less accurately in those on glucocorticoids (AUC = 0.746).

Conclusions

Our study clarified the risk factors for PCP in RA patients on b/tsDMARDs treatment and highlighted and defined the criteria for effective prophylaxis against PCP.
The Gendering of Infectious Disease: Classifying Male and Female Causes of Death in the Netherlands and Norway, 1880–1910
Authors: Sommerseth Hilde L , Walhout Evelien C
Published: August 2021

This article explores sex and gender patterns in mortality, based on individual-level causes of death (CODs) in two urban communities, obtained from civil and parish registers. By analysing CODs for the period 1880–1910 for Roosendaal (Netherlands) and Trondheim (Norway) we investigate how notions of sex and gender were reflected in cause-specific mortality rates for adults and in the registration of CODs by local authorities. Our findings show (i) excess male mortality among age group 15–70, (ii) airborne infectious diseases were responsible for most deaths in both cities, but did not show a distinct gender pattern, (iii) TB appeared to be more location-specific than gender-specific. However, the level of variation and specification in TB COD terms was higher among women in both locations.
Effect of phacoemulsification fluid flow on the corneal endothelium: experimental study in rabbit eyes
Authors: Ungricht Emilie L. , Culp Catherine , Qu Phillip , Harris Jacob T. , Brintz Ben J. , Mamalis Nick , Olson Randall J. , Werner Liliana
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To quantify the damage to the corneal endothelium from the flow of a balanced salt solution during phacoemulsification.

Setting:

John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.

Design:

Experimental study.

Methods:

12 New Zealand white rabbits received bilateral surgery. 6 eyes served as controls with no irrigation (incision only). In 18 eyes, the Intrepid Balanced tip of the Centurion Ozil (Alcon Laboratories, Inc.) handpiece was inserted into the anterior chamber for continuous irrigation at 50 mL/min with either 250 or 500 mL of balanced salt solution. After killing humanely and enucleation, the corneas were removed, stained with trypan blue–alizarin red, and photographed in a standardized manner (×400 photographs from 5 specific areas and 1 overview photograph from each corneal button). The ImageJ program was used to evaluate cell damage and loss in the photographs obtained from each cornea.

Results:

Analysis of the ×400 photographs showed no statistically significant differences between control, 250 mL, and 500 mL groups in the percentage of intact, damaged, or lost cells (P = .896, .851, and .972 respectively). For the overview photographs, the differences in areas of intact and damaged cells among the groups were statistically significant, likely because of the peripheral areas of damage related to touches between the phacoemulsification tip and the endothelium during irrigation.

Conclusions:

The volume of balanced salt solution flow alone did not seem to be a major contributing source of endothelial cell damage and loss, providing further insight into mechanisms of corneal endothelium damage during phacoemulsification.
Comparison of two phacoemulsification system handpieces: prospective randomized comparative study
Authors: Cyril Dhanya , Brahmani Pathakamuri , Prasad Senthil , Rashme Vinitha L. , R Sankarananthan , Kamble Nikhil Rajendra , Balakrishnan Logesh , Nagu Kamatchi , Shekhar Madhu
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To compare the safety and efficacy of Active Sentry handpiece with Ozil handpiece for Centurion phacoemulsification system.

Setting:

Tertiary eye center, South India.

Design:

Prospective observational study.

Methods:

204 eyes of 204 patients with uncomplicated cataract who underwent phacoemulsification cataract surgery with Centurion Vision System were randomized into 2 groups: Ozil handpiece (n = 101) and Active Sentry handpiece (n = 103). Intraoperative factors such as patient pain perception, surgeon comfort level, amount of phacoemulsification energy and aspiration fluid used, and frequency of activation of active surge mitigation (ASM) were analyzed, and postoperatively, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and corneal edema on day 1 were compared.

Results:

A total of 204 eyes of 204 patients were included among which 101 underwent surgery with ozil hand piece and 103 with Active Sentry handpiece. Patient pain perception was comparable between the groups with no statistically significant differences in patients who had pain-free surgery (66% vs 61.3%) and those who experienced moderate pain (24.3% vs 28.7%). Surgeons were more comfortable using Ozil handpiece during entry into anterior chamber and emulsification of hard nuclei (48.5% vs 28.6%). The mean cumulative dissipated energy for soft and hard cataracts was 5.6 and 4.8 and 9.3 and 9.4 for Ozil and Active Sentry groups, respectively. ASM was activated for 53 eyes (51.5%), of which 42 eyes (79.2%) had soft cataract and 11 eyes (20.7%) hard cataract. Postoperative CDVA and incidence of corneal edema were comparable between the groups.

Conclusions:

For Centurion Vision System, Active Sentry handpiece was as safe and efficacious as the Ozil handpiece with added benefit of operating at lower intraocular pressure levels.
Nail Psoriasis: Treatment Options and Management Strategies in Special Patient Populations
Authors: Zhou Xu-Yue , Zhang Jia-An , Chen Kun
Published: August 2021

Nail involvement is common in psoriasis and is considered a risk factor for and a predictor of the development of psoriatic arthritis. The treatment of nail psoriasis is challenging because of the unique anatomical structure of nails and the absence of standardized treatment protocols. Herein, we provide an up-to-date overview of the treatment options for nail psoriasis, including topical drugs and penetration enhancement strategies, traditional and novel oral drugs, and biologic agents. In addition, we highlight the available individualized management strategies in special patient populations such as pediatric patients, geriatric patients, women of childbearing age, and patients with concomitant onychomycosis or psoriatic arthritis.
Odontogenic Keratocyst in the Masseter Muscle
Authors: Mustakim Kezia Rachellea , Sodnom-Ish Buyanbileg , Yoon Hye-Jung , Kim Soung Min
Published: August 2021

Odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) arising from purely soft tissue other than the mucosa covering the jawbone is rare. A 57- year-old Korean female patient presented with a lump on her right cheek, which had been suspected as a fibrotic mass on the buccinator muscle by the local clinic. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an ovoid mass in the buccal space just before the right ramus with an enhancing component in the marginal area, and the interior of the mass revealed a fluid signal. Histopathologically, the lesion showed the typical features of OKC and the cyst wall contained some daughter cysts and the minor salivary gland, muscle, and fat tissues. The authors report a very unique case of OKC arising in the masseter muscle.
Evaluation of the quality characteristics of protein cubes
supplemented with moringa leaf (Moringa oleifera Lam.) and
green tea powders
Authors: Baek Chae-Wan , Lee Jeung-Hee
Published: August 2021

The biological activities of moringa leaf and green tea powders were compared,
and the quality characteristics of protein cubes supplemented with these powders
(5% and 7.5%, respectively) were evaluated. The green tea powder had higher
chlorophyll, essential fatty acid, total polyphenol (TPC), and flavonoid (TFC)
contents than the moringa leaf powder. The green tea powder had higher levels of
2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity (DPPH RSC), Trolox
equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power
(FRAP) than the moringa leaf powder, indicating higher antioxidant activity. The
green tea powder inhibited the nitric oxide production to a greater extent than
the moringa leaf powder. The protein cubes that were supplemented with either
the moringa leaf or green tea powders had smaller volumes and were harder,
chewier, and more easily fractured than the control protein cubes. The protein
cubes supplemented with green tea powder had higher TPC and TFC, exhibited
higher antioxidant activity (p<0.05), and had better sensory properties
in terms of aroma, taste, and texture than the protein cubes supplemented with
moringa leaf powder; however, the differences were not
significant(p>0.05). The results of the present study indicate that green
tea is a more suitable health-oriented functional additive than moringa leaf in
the development of high-protein and nutrient-rich bakery products with high
consumer acceptability as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
properties.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HELMINTHASIS AND GASTRIC CANCER: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Ramírez Moreno David Fabian
Published: August 2021

Introduction

helminths are parasitic worms able to produce diverse clinical manifestations in humans, mainly in the gut. Gastric cancer it’s a high incidence entity in Colombia, being the highland regions where it’s incidence is the highest in comparison with the lower incidence coastal region. From the above it is intended to determine the relationship between helminthiasis and the development of gastric cancer.

Methodology

A systematic review was performed in four databases for studies evaluating the relationship between helminthiasis and the development of gastric cancer.

Results

We included 16 articles from 929 records, with 11 articles reporting a positive relationship and 5 articles with negative relationship.

Conclusions

Parasitic infections of the gastrointestinal tract by helminths promote TH-2 type immune responses and decrease TH-1 type that are involved in the progression of precancerous lesions associated with Helicobacter pylori infection.
A broadly neutralizing biparatopic Nanobody protects mice from lethal challenge with SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern
Authors: Wagner Teresa R. , Schnepf Daniel , Beer Julius , Klingel Karin , Ruetalo Natalia , Kaiser Philipp D. , Junker Daniel , Sauter Martina , Traenkle Bjoern , Frecot Desiree I. , Becker Matthias , Schneiderhan-Marra Nicole , Ohnemus Annette , Schwemmle Martin , Schindler Michael , Rothbauer Ulrich
Published: August 2021

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the frequent emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs), requires continued development of fast and effective therapeutics. Recently, we identified high-affinity neutralizing nanobodies (Nb) specific for the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2, which are now being used as biparatopic Nbs (bipNbs) to investigate their potential as future drug candidates. Following detailedin vitrocharacterization, we chose NM1267 as the most promising candidate showing high affinity binding to several recently described SARS-CoV-2 VOCs and strong neutralizing capacity against a patient isolate of B.1.351 (Beta). To assess if bipNb NM1267 confers protection against SARS-CoV-2 infectionin vivo, human ACE2 transgenic mice were treated by intranasal route before infection with a lethal dose of SARS-CoV-2. NM1267-treated mice showed significantly reduced disease progression, increased survival rates and secreted less infectious virus via their nostrils. Histopathological analyses andin situhybridization further revealed a drastically reduced viral load and inflammatory response in lungs of NM1267-treated mice. These data suggest, that bipNb NM1267 is a broadly active and easily applicable drug candidate against a variety of emerging SARS-CoV-2 VOCs.
Integrated Single Cell and Spatial Transcriptomics Reveal Autoreactive Differentiated B Cells in Joints of Early Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hardt Uta , Carlberg Konstantin , Klint Erik af , Sahlström Peter , Larsson Ludvig , van Vollenhoven Annika , Machado Susana Hernandez , Israelsson Lena , Amara Khaled , Chemin Karine , Korotkova Marina , Karlsson Hedestam Gunilla B , Catrina Anca I , Teichmann Sarah A , Ståhl Patrik L , Malmström Vivianne
Published: August 2021

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a prevalent autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of peripheral joints. Patients can be subdivided by the presence or absence of Rheumatoid Factor and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) in their circulation. Inflammation of the joint tissue is associated with infiltration of leukocytes from the blood, which can result in generation of lymphoid structures composed of B and T cells. Previous studies have shown that both memory B cells and antibody-secreting plasma cells populate the rheumatic joint tissue when captured from established and often long-standing disease. However, it has remained unclear, whether these cells are autoreactive and whether the associated lymphoid structures are present at the site of inflammation already at the time of diagnosis. Here, we used an integrated single cell and spatial transcriptomic approach to study B and plasma cells in synovial tissue of ACPA- and ACPA+ RA patients at this early time point. We found evidence for T cell help to B cells and presence of memory B and plasma cell pools in ACPA- as well as in ACPA+ RA. Our results demonstrated common supportive microenvironments in both patient subgroups, clonal relationships between the memory B and plasma cell pools and autoreactivity within the plasma cell compartment. These findings challenge our understanding of the dynamics of local adaptive immune responses in the RA joint of ACPA- and ACPA+ patients at the time of diagnosis, with direct implications for B and T cell targeting therapies for both patient subgroups.

One Sentence Summary

A B cell maturation and plasma cell maintenance niche is evident at onset of Rheumatoid arthritis in both ACPA- and ACPA+ patients.
Data Visualization for Epidemiological and Demographic Data for Malaria Surveillance in the Brazilian Amazon, 2007-2019
Authors: Beluzo Carlos Eduardo , Arruda Natália Martins , Maia Vinícius de Souza , Alves Luciana Correia
Published: August 2021

Malaria represents one of the main public health problems world wide and continues to be a great challenge to Brazil which concentrates about 34.4% of the disease cases registered in the American continent. Approximately 99% of Malaria cases occur in Amazonia. In 2017, 194,000 cases were recorded. This increase in the number of cases may be a warning of a possible decline in the effectiveness of control and surveillance programs in the region. The objective of this study is to propose the design of interactive visualizations of data related to Malaria Surveillance in the Brazilian Amazon, between the years of 2007-2019. Data came from SIVEPMalaria. We used data visualization techniques to explore epidemiological and demographic aspects of Malaria Surveillance. We hope tools of this kind can reduce the burden of data extraction and analysis on health staff and local policy makers.