bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma with focal psammomatous calcifications: a rare occurrence mimicking translocation carcinoma
Authors: Sangoi Ankur R , Al‐Obaidy Khaleel I , Cheng Liang , Kao Chia‐Sui , Chan Emily , Sadasivan Sudha , Levin Albert M , Alvarado‐Cabrero Isabel , Kunju Lakshmi P , Mehra Rohit , Mannan Rahul , Wang Xioming , Dhillon Jasreman , Tretiakova Maria , Smith Steven C , Hes Ondrej , Williamson Sean R
Published: December 2022

Aims

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with clear cells and psammoma‐like calcifications would often raise suspicion for MITF family translocation RCC. However, we have rarely encountered tumours consistent with clear cell RCC that contain focal psammomatous calcifications.

Methods and results

We identified clear cell RCCs with psammomatous calcifications from multiple institutions and performed immunohistochemistry and fluorescence and RNA in‐situ hybridisation (FISH and RNA ISH). Twenty‐one tumours were identified: 12 men, nine women, aged 45–83 years. Tumour size was 2.3–14.0 cm (median = 6.75 cm). Nucleolar grade was 3 (n = 14), 2 (n = 4) or 4 (n = 3). In addition to clear cell pattern, morphology included eosinophilic (n = 12), syncytial giant cell (n = 4), rhabdoid (n = 2), branched glandular (n = 1), early spindle cell (n = 1) and poorly differentiated components (n = 1). Labelling for CA9 was usually 80–100% of the tumour cells (n = 17 of 21), but was sometimes decreased in areas of eosinophilic cells (n = 4). All (19 of 19) were positive for CD10. Most (19 of 20) were positive for AMACR (variable staining = 20–100%). Staining was negative for keratin 7, although four showed rare positive cells (four of 20). Results were negative for cathepsin K (none of 19), melan A (none of 17), HMB45 (none of 17), TFE3 (none of 5), TRIM63 RNA ISH (none of 13), and TFE3 (none of 19) and TFEB rearrangements (none of 12). Seven of 19 (37%) showed chromosome 3p deletion. One (one of 19) showed trisomy 7 and 17 without papillary features.

Conclusions

Psammomatous calcifications in RCC with a clear cell pattern suggests a diagnosis of MITF family translocation RCC; however, psammomatous calcifications can rarely be found in true clear cell RCC.
Cilostazol attenuates oxidative stress and apoptosis in the quadriceps muscle of the dystrophic mouse experimental model
Authors: Hermes Túlio de Almeida , Mâncio Rafael Dias , Mizobutti Daniela Sayuri , Macedo Aline Barbosa , Kido Larissa Akemi , Cagnon Quitete Valéria Helena Alves , Minatel Elaine
Published: December 2022

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most severe and frequent form of muscular dystrophy. The mdx mouse is one of the most widely used experimental models to understand aspects of the biology of dystrophic skeletal muscles and the mechanisms of DMD. Oxidative stress and apoptosis are present in early stages of the disease in mdx mice. The high production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes activation of apoptotic death regulatory proteins due to DNA damage and breakdown of nuclear and mitochondrial membranes. The quadriceps (QUA) muscle of the mdx mouse is a good tool to study oxidative events. Previous studies have demonstrated that cilostazol exerts an anti‐oxidant effect by decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The present study aimed to evaluate the ability of cilostazol to modulate oxidative stress and apoptosis in the QUA muscle of mdx mice. Fourteen‐day‐old mdx mice received cilostazol or saline for 14 days. C57BL/10 mice were used as a control. In the QUA muscle of mdx mice, cilostazol treatment decreased ROS production (−74%), the number of lipofuscin granules (−47%), lipid peroxidation (−11%), and the number of apoptotic cells (−66%). Thus cilostazol showed anti‐oxidant and anti‐apoptotic action in the QUA muscle of mdx mice.
Bioactive compounds characterisation of PeruvianDysphania ambrosioides(L.) Mosyakin & Clemants leaves byGC/MSandUPLC–ESI–Q/TOF–MSntechniques
Authors: Figueroa‐Merma Andrés , Chirinos Rosana , García‐Rios Diego , Pedreschi Romina , Aguilar‐Galvez Ana , Campos David
Published: December 2022

Some bioactive compounds in paico (Dysphania ambrosioides)leaves were characterised. By LC–MS/MS‐QToF, 20 polyphenols were found: vanillic acid, onep‐coumaroyl‐hexoside acid derivative, three quercetin‐rhamnoside derivatives, one quercetin derivative, two kaempferol acetyl‐furanoside‐rhamnoside derivatives and twelve kaempferol‐rhamnoside derivatives. The content of total phenolic compounds was 645.11 mg/100 g dry weight (DW) of which the highest content corresponded to kaempferol glycosides. Likewise, in the analysis of terpenes, α‐terpinene, limonene,p‐cymene, thymol, γ‐terpinene, carvacrol, isoascaridol and α‐pinene were found in amounts of 1489.65; 313.1; 104.8; 49.4; 45.1; 22.9; 8.19 and 4.32 mg/100 g DW, respectively. Analysis of lipophilic metabolites reported fatty acids in order of importance: linoleic = linolenic > palmitic > oleic (35.8; 35.4; 26.3 and 2.5%, respectively). α‐, β‐, γ‐ and δ‐tocopherols were found in amounts of 28.78, 7.19, 7.96 and 3.27 μg g−1, respectively. It is concluded that paico leaves of Peruvian origin present a varied source of bioactive compounds with potential applications for the pharmaceutical and food industry.
Impact of functional impairment and cognitive status on perioperative outcomes and costs after radical cystectomy: The role of Barthel Index
Authors: Tafuri Alessandro , Panunzio Andrea , Gozzo Alessandra , Ornaghi Paola Irene , Di Filippo Giacomo , Mazzucato Giovanni , Soldano Antonio , De Maria Nicola , Cianflone Francesco , Artibani Walter , Porcaro Antonio Benito , Pagliarulo Vincenzo , Cerruto Maria Angela , Antonelli Alessandro
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To investigate the association between Barthel Index (BI), which measures level of patients independence during daily living activities (ADL), and perioperative outcomes in a large cohort of consecutive bladder cancer (BCa) patients, who underwent radical cystectomy (RC) at a tertiary referral center.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated data from clinically nonmetastatic BCa patients treated with RC between 2015 and 2022. For each patient, BI was assessed preoperatively. According to BI score, patients were divided into three groups: ≤60 (total/severe dependency) vs. 65–90 (moderate dependency) vs. 95–100 (slight dependency/independency). Regression analyses tested the association between BI score and major postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo >2), length of in‐hospital stay (LOHS), 90‐days readmission, and total costs.

Results

Overall, 288 patients were included. According to BI score, the patient cohort was distributed as follows: 4% (n = 11) BI ≤60 vs. 15% (n = 42) BI 65–90 vs. 81% (n = 235) BI 95–100. Patients with BI ≤60 had more frequent ureterocutaneostomy performed, shorter operative time, higher rates of postoperative complications, longer LOHS, higher rates of readmission, and were associated with higher total costs, compared to patients with BI 65–90 and 95–100. In multivariable regression models, BI ≤60 remained an independent predictor of increased risk of major postoperative complications (odds ratio: 6.62, p = 0.006), longer LOHS (rate ratio: 1.25, p < 0.001), and higher costs (β: 2.617, p = 0.038).

Conclusions

Total/severe dependency in ADL assessed by BI was associated with higher rates of major postoperative complications, longer hospitalization, and higher costs in BCa patients treated with RC. BI assessment should be considered during patients selection process and counseling before surgery.
Cerebral amyloid angiopathy: clinical presentations and management challenges in the Australian context
Authors: Swarup Oshi , Barker James L. , Watson Rosie , Davis Stephen M. , Campbell Bruce C. V. , Yassi Nawaf
Published: December 2022

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a disease with several clinical manifestations. It is characterised by amyloid‐beta deposition in cerebral blood vessels, making them prone to bleeding. The incidence of CAA increases with age and may be associated or co‐exist with intraparenchymal neurodegenerative proteinopathies, which makes it an increasingly relevant condition for adult physicians in all areas of medical practice. The vast majority of cases of CAA are sporadic with a small minority of familial cases. CAA is asymptomatic in many older adults but increases the risk of fatal intracerebral or subarachnoid haemorrhage. We review the existing literature on CAA and summarise the key findings. We specifically explore clinical challenges relevant to CAA, particularly in diagnosis, management of intracranial haemorrhage and management of concurrent medical conditions.
Clinical significance of incidental 18FDG PET uptake in the gastrointestinal tract: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gilhotra Rajit A. , Song Lisa , Remedios Matthew , Malacova Eva , Appleyard Mark , Ryan Kimberley , Grimpen Florian
Published: December 2022

Background

Incidental gastrointestinal tract (GIT) uptake is found in up to 6.3% of patients undergoing positron emission tomography (PET). This may be physiologic or pathologic and requires endoscopic assessment.

Aim

To determine the diagnostic yield of endoscopy in this setting and characterise PET avidity as a predictor of clinically significant findings.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive patients undergoing upper endoscopy or colonoscopy for incidental 18FDG PET positivity in the GIT.

Results

A total of 255 patients (62% male, median age 67 years) underwent colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy for 276 separate areas of PET avidity in the colon. Malignancy was found in 44 cases (16%), and a significant polyp was found in an additional 103 cases (37%). Neoplastic change was found more often in the case of intense compared with non‐intense PET avidity (odds ratio (OR) 3.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.95–5.93, P < 0.001), and in focal compared with diffuse uptake (OR 5.97, 95% CI 2.9–12.2, P < 0.001). Upper GIT endoscopy was performed in 75 patients (46 male, median age 63 years) for 77 isolated areas with PET avidity. Malignancy was found in 16 cases (21%), and all were new primary lesions. Numerically, malignant findings were more common in intense (29.7%) than non‐intense (12.5%) PET avidity (OR 2.96, 95%, CI 0.92–9.57, P = 0.069).

Conclusions

Both focal and intense colonic 18FDG uptake correlate strongly with a high‐risk polyp or malignant lesion. Up to 21% of all gastroscopies performed for evaluation of incidental PET uptake diagnosed a new primary malignancy. These referrals need appropriate triaging and timely endoscopic assessment.
Revisiting metastable immiscibility in SiO2–Al2O3: Structure and phase separation of supercooled liquids and glasses
Authors: Wilke Stephen K. , Benmore Chris J. , Menon Vrishank , Ilavsky Jan , Rezikyan Aram , Youngman Randall E. , Carson Michael P. , Weber Richard
Published: December 2022

Understanding and controlling liquid–liquid phase separation in aluminosilicates is crucial for optimizing glass properties. However, the metastable nature of aluminosilicates’ phase separation has made it difficult to study experimentally, and uncertainty persists regarding the compositional and temperature extents of the miscibility gap. Here, we present new experimental evidence that suggests a consolute temperature between 1440 and 1590°C and endmember compositions of 7 and 62 mol.% Al2O3 for the phase‐separated glasses. Using containerless melt processing, deeply supercooled liquids over the 0–60 mol.% Al2O3 range are probed with in situ small‐ and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, which simultaneously reveals changes in nanoscale density heterogeneity and atomic structure. Correlations between phase separation and atomic coordination environments are compared for liquids and glasses. Pair distribution function analysis shows mean O–(Si + Al) coordination increases with Al2O3 content and decreases with temperature.
Out of the tropics: Macroevolutionary size trends in an old insect order are shaped by temperature and predators
Authors: Svensson Erik I. , Gómez‐Llano Miguel , Waller John T.
Published: December 2022

Aim

Global interspecific body size distributions have been suggested to be shaped by selection pressures arising from biotic and abiotic factors such as temperature, predation and parasitism. Here, we investigated the ecological and evolutionary drivers of global latitudinal size gradients in an old insect order.

Location

Global.

Taxon

Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies).

Methods

We compiled data on interspecific variation in extant and extinct body sizes of Odonata, using an already existing database (The Odonate Phenotypic Database) and fossil data (The Paleobiology Database). We combined such body size data with latitudinal information and data on biotic and abiotic environmental variables across the globe to investigate and quantify interspecific latitudinal size‐gradients (“Bergmann's Rule”) and their environmental determinants. We used phylogenetic comparative methods and a global published phylogeny of Odonata to address these questions.

Results

Phylogenetic comparative analyses revealed that global size variation of extant Odonata taxa is negatively influenced by both regional avian diversity and temperature, with larger‐bodied species in the suborder Anisoptera (dragonflies) showing a steeper size‐latitude relationship than smaller‐bodied species in the suborder Zygoptera (damselflies). Interestingly, fossil data show that the relationship between wing size and latitude has shifted: latitudinal size trends had initially negative slopes but became shallower or positive following the evolutionary emergence and radiation of birds.

Main Conclusions

The changing size‐latitude trends over geological and macroevolutionary time were likely driven by a combination of predation from birds and maybe pterosaurs and high dispersal ability of large dragonflies. Our study reveals that a simple version of Bergmann's Rule based on temperature alone is not sufficient to explain interspecific size‐latitude trends in Odonata. Our results instead suggest that latitudinal size gradients were shaped not only by temperature but also by avian predators, potentially driving the dispersal of large‐sized clades out of the tropics and into the temperate zone.
Drivers of contemporary lacustrine fish species richness in the glacial Lake Agassiz basin
Authors: Illyes Edina , Campbell Sara E. , Mandrak Nicholas E.
Published: December 2022

Aim

Biological communities are the result of a stepwise spatiotemporal filtering process, driven by large‐scale historical and local contemporary determinants. The biogeographical pattern and species richness of North American fishes are predominantly determined by historical processes of past glaciations and postglacial dispersal and by contemporary environmental and ecological processes. We evaluated the effects of postglacial dispersal through glacial Lake Agassiz and habitat heterogeneity, represented by lake surface area, on contemporary freshwater fish species richness patterns of northwestern Ontario lakes.

Location

Northwestern Ontario, Canada.

Taxon

Freshwater fishes.

Methods

Applying the theory of island biogeography and species–area curves, we examined the effects of isolation from the past dispersal corridor of glacial Lake Agassiz and habitat heterogeneity on species richness across 264 contemporary lakes. While controlling for correlations among the predictor variables, generalized linear models were constructed between species richness, as the response variable and the explanatory variables of lake elevation and surface area, and connection to the dispersal corridor.

Results

Differential cover by glacial Lake Agassiz led to variation in fish species richness across contemporary lakes and it is higher in lakes that were covered by Lake Agassiz relative to basins remaining outside of the boundaries of the glacial lake. Lake surface area is the strongest predictor of species richness, while lake elevation is the strongest factor predicting isolation.

Main Conclusions

Habitat heterogeneity and postglacial colonization have led to differences in fish richness within the same geographical region, which increases with lake surface area and decreases with elevation. These are likely driven by greater niche diversity facilitating the assembly of more diverse communities and isostatic rebound and fluctuating levels of Lake Agassiz isolating lakes at high elevations from the dispersal route earlier during the colonization process, respectively. These patterns underscore the importance of incorporating historical and environmental community determinants in biodiversity studies.
Genomic assessment of larval odyssey: self‐recruitment and biased settlement in the Hawaiian surgeonfish Acanthurus triostegus sandvicensis
Authors: Coleman Richard R. , Kraft Derek W. , Hoban Mykle L. , Toonen Robert J. , Bowen Brian W.
Published: December 2022

The gap between spawning and settlement location of marine fishes, where the larvae occupy an oceanic phase, is a great mystery in both natural history and conservation. Recent genomic approaches provide some resolution, especially in linking parent to offspring with assays of nucleotide polymorphisms. Here, the authors applied this method to the endemic Hawaiian convict tang (Acanthurus triostegus sandvicensis), a surgeonfish with a long pelagic larval stage of c. 54–77 days. They collected 606 adults and 607 juveniles from 23 locations around the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi. Based on 399 single nucleotide polymorphisms, the authors assigned 68 of these juveniles back to a parent (11.2% assignment rate). Each side of the island showed significant population differentiation, with higher levels in the west and north. The west and north sides of the island also had little evidence of recruitment, which may be due to westerly currents in the region or an artefact of uneven sampling. In contrast, the majority of juveniles (94%) sampled along the eastern shore originated on that side of the island, primarily within semi‐enclosed Kāneʻohe Bay. Nearly half of the juveniles assigned to parents were found in the southern part of Kāneʻohe Bay, with local settlement likely facilitated by extended water residence time. Several instances of self‐recruitment, when juveniles return to their natal location, were observed along the eastern and southern shores. Cumulatively, these findings indicate that most dispersal is between adjacent regions on the eastern and southern shores. Regional management efforts for Acanthurus triostegus and possibly other reef fishes will be effective only with collaboration among adjacent coastal communities, consistent with the traditional moku system of native Hawaiian resource management.
Evaluation of low impact development for resilient capacity in urban area with flood resilience index
Authors: Chang Yuan‐Shun , Ho Hao‐Che , Huang Li‐Ya
Published: December 2022

Low impact development (LID) is a common approach to storm water management aimed at mitigating the impact of flooding in urban areas. Most previous studies on this topic focused solely on the qualitative assessment of urban resilience. The lack of operational or quantitative resilience indicators has made it difficult to elucidate the degree to which LID affects resilience to flooding. This study established a quantitative flood resilience index (FRI) to assess the resilience of specific locations to flooding. We then used a 3Di hydrodynamic model to simulate time‐variant inundation conditions under an extreme weather event (799 mm in 72 h) in Tainan, Taiwan. Physical and socioeconomic factors were identified as the important factors in calculating the FRI in areas affected by LID. Our results revealed that LID can reduce inundation area and depth during short‐duration (sub‐daily) rainfall events; however, its effectiveness in reducing the effects of flooding during long‐duration (>1 day) events is negligible. Nonetheless, LID could enhance urban resilience to flooding by reducing the duration of flooding events and thereby making it possible to initiate recovery efforts earlier.
Population Aging and International Monetary Transmission
Authors: KIM MYUNGHYUN
Published: December 2022

This paper examines whether U.S. monetary policy has different effects on young and old countries. I first empirically show that a contractionary U.S. monetary policy shock brings about a smaller fall in output and a greater rise in net exports in old countries using vector autoregressions (VARs), and that the shock leads to a larger fall in consumption and a smaller decrease in investment in old countries using the local projection method. I then construct a three‐country life‐cycle model including the U.S., a young country, and an old country. Consistent with the empirical analyses, the simulation results of the model show that a contractionary U.S. monetary policy shock has weaker effects on output in the old country than in the young country. In response to the shock, despite a larger fall in consumption in the old country, investment there decreases by less and net exports rise by more, which enables output in the old country to decline by less. The stronger incentives to save in the old country, resulting from the longer life expectancy and hence the longer retirement period, play a key role in generating these results.
Anxiety and Psychological Flexibility in Women After Childbirth in the Rooming‐in Unit during the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Prokopowicz Anna , Stańczykiewicz Bartłomiej , Uchmanowicz Izabella
Published: December 2022

Introduction

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has intensified perinatal anxiety disorders. Psychological flexibility (PF), considered a specific mental toughness, has not been examined with regard to its relationship with anxiety in women after childbirth. We aimed to compare levels of anxiety, PF, and pain in women depending on the mode of birth, parity, and the magnitude of risk of developing an anxiety disorder. We also investigated the association of anxiety with PF and pain.

Methods

A total of 187 women after childbirth completed validated questionnaires for anxiety (State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale‐Anxiety, Numerical Rating Scale for anxiety [NRS‐A]), PF, and pain (Numerical Rating Scale for pain). Specific postpartum anxieties were assessed with a numerical scale from 0 to 10. The relationship of anxiety with PF and pain was examined. Women at low and high risk of developing anxiety disorder were compared in terms of PF, anxiety, and pain.

Results

On the second postpartum day, women after cesarean birth demonstrated significantly greater anxiety on NRS‐A and pain than those after vaginal birth. Primiparous women experienced significantly greater anxieties and pain compared to multiparous women. The higher the PF patients demonstrated, the less anxiety and pain they had. Patients at high risk of developing an anxiety disorder had a lower level of PF (P < .001) and higher levels of anxiety (P < .001) and pain (P < .01) than patients at low risk of developing an anxiety disorder. No difference in the anxiety of getting COVID‐19 was observed between the groups (P > .05).

Conclusions

PF is an important psychological construct related to the mental and physical condition of women after childbirth. Increasing PF in women after childbirth may be considered as an important goal of preventive and intervention measures.
Adequate Prenatal Care: An Integrative Review
Authors: Michel Alexandra , Fontenot Holly
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Prenatal care (PNC) is a core element of preventive care and is vital in identifying and managing conditions that can put the pregnant person and the fetus at risk. National and international guidelines differ in what is considered adequate or quality PNC. Indices of care adequacy rely only on number of attended PNC visits without regard to factors that affect a patient's ability to obtain care or the quality of the care received. This integrative review explored stakeholders’ perceptions of adequate and quality PNC.

Methods

Three electronic databases, CINAHL, PubMed, and Web of Science, were searched to identify original research articles published between 2012 and April 2022. Studies conducted in the United States, published in a peer‐reviewed journal, and having a primary focus on the components of adequate or quality PNC were included. The quality of included studies was assessed via the Quality Assessment Tool for Studies with Diverse Designs.

Results

Thirteen articles met inclusion criteria. The concepts of adequate or quality PNC were not well defined in the literature. Studies revealed a variety of approaches to assessing individual components of PNC with at times conflicting results of what adequate or quality PNC is. Viewpoints regarding adequacy or quality of PNC were limited by the perceptions and interpretations of individual stakeholders, who included researchers, public health officials, insurers, health care providers, and patients.

Discussion

Ideas of how to redesign PNC were affected by study setting and stakeholders, as well as the emergence and integration of telehealth into PNC delivery. This review is a first step in identifying the gap in the research literature regarding how these concepts are defined and measured. Future research is needed to identify the relevant components of PNC that are necessary to reach consensus definitions of both adequacy and quality of PNC.
Substance use disorder treatment and technology access among people who use drugs in rural areas of the United States: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Button Dana , Levander Ximena A. , Cook Ryan R. , Miller William C. , Salisbury‐Afshar Elizabeth M. , Tsui Judith I. , Ibragimov Umedjon , Jenkins Wiley D. , Westergaard Ryan P. , Korthuis P. Todd
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To evaluate how technology access affected substance use disorder (SUD) treatment prior to COVID‐19 for people who use drugs in rural areas.

Methods

The Rural Opioid Initiative (January 2018‐March 2020) was a cross‐sectional study of people with prior 30‐day injection drug or nonprescribed opioid use from rural areas of 10 states. Using multivariable mixed‐effect regression models, we examined associations between participant technology access and SUD treatment.

Findings

Of 3,026 participants, 71% used heroin and 76% used methamphetamine. Thirty‐five percent had no cell phone and 10% had no prior 30‐day internet use. Having both a cell phone and the internet was associated with increased days of medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) use (aIRR 1.29 [95% CI 1.11‐1.52]) and a higher likelihood of SUD counseling in the prior 30 days (aOR 1.28 [95% CI 1.05‐1.57]). Lack of cell phone was associated with decreased days of MOUD (aIRR 0.77 [95% CI 0.66‐0.91]) and a lower likelihood of prior 30‐day SUD counseling (aOR 0.77 [95% CI 0.62‐0.94]).

Conclusions

Expanding US rural SUD treatment engagement via telemedicine may require increased cell phone and mobile network access.
Anxiety and depression in patients with narcolepsy
Authors: Abenza‐Abildua María José , Suárez‐Gisbert Eugenio , Lores‐Gutiérrez Vanesa , Algarra‐Lucas Carmen , Gómez‐Aceña Ángeles , Navacerrada‐Barrero Francisco José , González‐Martín Laura , Pérez‐Villena Ana , Pérez‐López Carlos
Published: December 2022

We analysed the co‐existence of psychopathology in patients with narcolepsy at our centre. We performed an observational retrospective descriptive analysis of patients with a diagnosis of narcolepsy, with and without psychopathology, who attended our sleep disorders unit from October 2012 to October 2021. A total of 51patients with narcolepsy (mean [SD] age 41.10 [14.71] years; 23 [45.1%] males and 28 [54.90%] females) were included. In all, 27 patients (52.94%) and 24 patients (47.06%) had narcolepsy with and without cataplexy, respectively. Of the total, 18 (33.33%) had a mood disorder: 18 with anxiety disorder (33.33%). Of these patients 14 (27.45%) had major depression, two (4%) had attempted suicide, one (2%) had manic outbreak, and one (2%) had substance abuse. Of the 18 patients with anxiety and depression, 10 (55.55%) and eight (44.44%) had narcolepsy with and without cataplexy, respectively. In the comparative analysis, a statistically significant relationship was found between younger age and the presence of anxiety. The prevalence of anxiety and depression in patients with narcolepsy was triple that of the general population, especially in younger patients. Psychopathology precedes the diagnosis of narcolepsy in most patients, not being reactive to diagnosis. This high prevalence suggests a possible biological relationship between both disorders, which should be assessed with larger studies.
Comparison of age estimates and population characteristics for green sunfish using two otolith methods
Authors: Griffin Austin D. , Porta Michael J. , Snow Richard A.
Published: December 2022

Dependent on the specific fishery, green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus) can be viewed as a benefit or a detriment. Regardless, effective management of this species relies on precise age estimation, which is critical to detail age structure, growth and recruitment rates of their populations. To determine the most precise method for age estimation, estimated ages of whole and cracked otoliths of 422 green sunfish were compared from three small impoundments (0.6–16.2 ha) in Oklahoma. Green sunfish ages ranged from 0 to 7 for cracked otoliths and 0 to 6 for whole‐viewed otoliths, depending on the population. High precision between readers was observed for whole (per cent agreement = 85%–96%; mean CV = 3.4%–4.8%; and average per cent error = 2.4%–3.4%) and cracked otoliths (per cent agreement = 92%–96%; mean CV = 0.3%–6.3%; and average per cent error = 0.3%–4.4%). Limited bias was observed for young fish (≤age 3) for evaluating between‐reader precision using whole otoliths. When bias was present, ages generally exceeded the 1:1 line of equivalency. Final consensus ages for older fish (≥age 5) were sometimes underestimated using whole otoliths, compared to cracked otoliths. Fair agreement for final consensus ages (73%–87%) between whole and cracked otoliths was observed, compared to other otolith ageing studies in the literature. However, the results of the present study indicated no significant differences in growth or age‐frequency estimates using ages derived from whole and cracked otoliths, suggesting the moderate level of consensus agreement was not sufficiently low to significantly impact population characteristics and subsequent management decisions. Green sunfish growth rates in Oklahoma appear sufficiently high to allow the use of whole otoliths for age estimation to age seven, unless slow growth is expected. To ensure precise age estimation, however, it is suggested that otoliths from green sunfish ≥age 5 be cracked, regardless of growth rates.
Exploring the clinical features and risk factors for children tinea capitis complicated with allergic diseases
Authors: Zhou Xin , Liu Wentao , Yang Sulian , Wu Angela , Chen Peiran , Yin Songchao , de Hoog Sybren , Li Meirong , Feng Peiying
Published: December 2022

Background

Tinea capitis, atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis are the most common disorders endured by prepubescent children. Dermatophyte infections have been linked to allergic disorders, such as increased sensitivity to dermatophytes in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Objectives

To explore the correlation between tinea capitis and allergic diseases in children and to analyse their risk factors.

Methods

This study monitored epidemiological changes in childhood tinea capitis and risk factors for whom with allergic disease in a single centre in three consecutive five‐year intervals by reviewing clinical data and multivariate logistic data analysis.

Results

Between 2007 and 2022, there were 127 children patients with tinea capitis, the mean age was 4.83 years, and the male‐to‐female ratio was 1.76:1. Zoophilic Microsporum canis and Trichophyton mentagrophytes were the most prevalent pathogens, and the proportions remained relatively constant every 5 years. There were 34 (26.8%) children with tinea capitis complicated with allergic disease, among them 14 children with atopic dermatitis/eczema, 13 with allergic rhinitis, 8 urticaria, 6 food allergies and 1 allergic asthma. Male, kerion, zoophilic species infections and animal contact history were prevalent features in allergic disease combined with tinea capitis. Patients with tinea capitis plus allergic disease mostly had a family history with similar complications.

Conclusion

M. canis and T. mentagrophytes were the most prevalent pathogens of tinea capitis in the last 15 years; atopic dermatitis/eczema and allergic rhinitis were the most frequently associated allergic diseases. Male, kerion, zoophilic pathogen and animal contact history are risk factors.
Updated estimation of the burden of fungal disease in Vietnam
Authors: Duong Tra‐My N. , Le Minh‐Hang , Beardsley Justin , Denning David W. , Le Ngoc‐Huy , Nguyen Bich‐Ngoc T.
Published: December 2022

Background

Anecdotally, the burden of fungal diseases in Vietnam is rapidly rising, but there has been no updated estimate on this issue since a previous report in 2015.

Objectives

In this study, we aimed at estimating the incidence and prevalence of serious fungal infections for the year 2020.

Methods

We made estimates with a previously described methodology, using reports on the incidence and prevalence of various established risk factors for fungal infections from local, regional or global sources.

Results

We estimated 2,389,661 cases of serious fungal infection occurred in Vietnam in 2020. The most common condition was recurrent vaginal candidiasis (4047/100,000 women annually). Among people living with HIV, we estimated 451 cases of cryptococcal meningitis, 1030 of pneumocystis pneumonia, 166 of histoplasmosis and 1612 of talaromycosis annually. Candidaemia incidence was estimated at 12/100,000 population each year. Owing to its high burden of tuberculosis and respiratory diseases, Vietnam had high rates of severe infections caused by Aspergillus species. Incidence of invasive aspergillosis is 24/100,000 population, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis 78/100,000 and severe asthma with fungal sensitisation 102/100,000. Five‐year period prevalence of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is 120/100,000 population /5‐year period. Mucormycosis, fungal keratitis and tinea capitis were estimated at 192, 14,431 and 201 episodes each year, respectively.

Conclusions

The number of patients with mycoses in Vietnam is likely underestimated due to a lack of local data and limited diagnostic capacity, but at least 2.5% of the population might have some form of serious fungal disease.
Dermatophytoses Severity Score – A novel point‐of‐care scoring tool to assess the severity of dermatophytosis
Authors: Bhat Ramesh M. , Madhumita Monisha , Jayaraman Jyothi
Published: December 2022

The rising prevalence of dermatophytosis in tropical countries coupled with drug resistance necessitates an objective scoring system to define the severity, monitor therapeutic response and predict prognoses. We attempted to establish and validate a new scoring system – Dermatophytoses Severity Score (DSS), for dermatophytoses affecting non‐glabrous skin. A consensus group was convened to develop an objective and reproducible scoring system to describe the extent and severity of dermatophytosis of 200 consecutive patients with dermatophytosis. A second assessment entailed independent DSS scoring of the same patients by dermatologists and residents who were not part of the consensus group. The main outcome measured was index reliability, assessed in two steps, between the observers. A two‐step assessment and DSS grading of 200 consecutive patients with clinically diagnosed dermatophytoses showed high reliability (Cronbach's α test and intraclass correlation coefficient). The DSS has demonstrated high reliability, and it could serve as a novel, reproducible and objective scoring tool for dermatophytosis.
Arteriolar neuropathology in cerebral microvascular disease
Authors: Fang Chuo , Magaki Shino D. , Kim Ronald C. , Kalaria Raj N. , Vinters Harry V. , Fisher Mark
Published: December 2022

Cerebral microvascular disease (MVD) is an important cause of vascular cognitive impairment. MVD is heterogeneous in aetiology, ranging from universal ageing to the sporadic (hypertension, sporadic cerebral amyloid angiopathy [CAA] and chronic kidney disease) and the genetic (e.g., familial CAA, cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy [CADASIL] and cerebral autosomal recessive arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy [CARASIL]). The brain parenchymal consequences of MVD predominantly consist of lacunar infarcts (lacunes), microinfarcts, white matter disease of ageing and microhaemorrhages. MVD is characterised by substantial arteriolar neuropathology involving ubiquitous vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) abnormalities. Cerebral MVD is characterised by a wide variety of arteriolar injuries but only a limited number of parenchymal manifestations. We reason that the cerebral arteriole plays a dominant role in the pathogenesis of each type of MVD. Perturbations in signalling and function (i.e., changes in proliferation, apoptosis, phenotypic switch and migration of SMC) are prominent in the pathogenesis of cerebral MVD, making ‘cerebral angiomyopathy’ an appropriate term to describe the spectrum of pathologic abnormalities. The evidence suggests that the cerebral arteriole acts as both source and mediator of parenchymal injury in MVD.
Mysterium Esse Christi: Thomas Aquinas & the Supernatural Being of Jesus Christ
Authors: Mabry Eric A.
Published: December 2022

For over 700 years scholastic theologians of varying degrees of allegiance to the text(s) of Thomas Aquinas have discoursed on the mystery of Christ's being (esse): Did Christ have one or two acts of existence? Yet despite this frequent and recurring quaestio, nevertheless only a handful of scholastic commentators pause to note that this is not simply a debate between rival scholastic ‘schools’ in regard to a theological mystery, but that in fact there is an inconsistency within the Angelic doctor's own texts. And while in more recent scholarship this discrepancy has not only been noticed but explicated in various ways, nevertheless it is the contention of this paper that a satisfactory exposition of the meaning of esse secundarium has not yet been achieved. Consequently, I propose in this paper that esse secundarium is the created, substantial, but absolutely supernatural participation of the human nature of Jesus in the uncreated communication of the divine esse of the Word and provide a robust textual defense of this interpretation.
Engineered Agrobacterium improves transformation by mitigating plant immunity detection
Authors: Yang Fan , Li Guangyong , Felix Georg , Albert Markus , Guo Ming
Published: December 2022

Agrobacterium tumefaciens microbe‐associated molecular pattern elongation factor Tu (EF‐Tu) is perceived by orthologs of the Arabidopsis immune receptor EFR activating pattern‐triggered immunity (PTI) that causes reduced T‐DNA‐mediated transient expression. We altered EF‐Tu in A. tumefaciens to reduce PTI and improved transformation efficiency.

A robust computational pipeline was established to detect EF‐Tu protein variation in a large set of plant bacterial species and identified EF‐Tu variants from bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 that allow the pathogen to escape EFR perception. Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains were engineered to substitute EF‐Tu with DC3000 variants and examined their transformation efficiency in plants.

Elongation factor Tu variants with rarely occurred amino acid residues were identified within DC3000 EF‐Tu that mitigates recognition by EFR. Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains were engineered by expressing DC3000 EF‐Tu instead of native agrobacterial EF‐Tu and resulted in decreased plant immunity detection.

These engineered A. tumefaciens strains displayed an increased efficiency in transient expression in both Arabidopsis thaliana and Camelina sativa. The results support the potential application of these strains as improved vehicles to introduce transgenic alleles into members of the Brassicaceae family.
Coupling temperature‐dependent spatial turnover of microbes and plants using the metabolic theory of ecology
Authors: Xiao Xian , Ma Zhiyuan , Zhang Jiabao , Sun Bo , Zhou Jizhong , Liang Yuting
Published: December 2022

There is an urgent need to understand the coupled relationship between belowground microbes and aboveground plants in response to temperature under climate change. The metabolic theory of ecology (MTE) provides a way to predict the metabolic rate and species diversity, but the spatial scale dependence and connections between plants and microorganisms are still unclear.

Here, we used two independent datasets to address this question. One is from comprehensive sampling of paddy fields targeting bacteria and microbial functional genes, and the other is a global metadata of spatial turnover for microorganisms (bacteria, fungi and archaea, n = 139) and plants (n = 206).

Results showed that spatial turnover of bacterial communities and microbial functional genes increased with temperature and fitted MTE. Through meta‐analysis, the temperature‐dependent spatial scale pattern was further extended to the global scale, with the spatial turnover of microorganisms and plants being consistent with MTE. Belowground microorganisms and aboveground plants were closely linked with each other even when controlling for temperature, suggesting that factors other than shared relationships with temperature also contribute to their linkages.

These results implied a broad application of MTE in biology and have important implications for predicting the ecological consequences of future climate warming.
AaMYB108 is the core factor integrating light and jasmonic acid signaling to regulate artemisinin biosynthesis in Artemisia annua
Authors: Liu Hang , Li Ling , Fu Xueqing , Li Yongpeng , Chen Tiantian , Qin Wei , Yan Xin , Wu Zhangkuanyu , Xie Lihui , Kayani Sadaf‐llyas , Hassani Danial , Sun Xiaofen , Tang Kexuan
Published: December 2022

Artemisinin, a sesquiterpene compound synthesized and stored in the glandular trichome of Artemisia annua leaves, has been used to treat malaria. Previous studies have shown that both light and jasmonic acid (JA) can promote the biosynthesis of artemisinin, and the promotion of artemisinin by JA is dependent on light. However, the specific molecular mechanism remains unclear.

Here, we report a MYB transcription factor, AaMYB108, identified from transcriptome analysis of light and JA treatment, as a positive regulator of artemisinin biosynthesis in A. annua. AaMYB108 promotes artemisinin biosynthesis by interacting with a previously characterized positive regulator of artemisinin, AaGSW1.

Then, we found that AaMYB108 interacted with AaCOP1 and AaJAZ8, respectively. The function of AaMYB108 was influenced by AaCOP1 and AaJAZ8. Through the treatment of AaMYB108 transgenic plants with light and JA, it was found that the promotion of artemisinin by light and JA depends on the presence of AaMYB108.

Taken together, our results reveal the molecular mechanism of JA regulating artemisinin biosynthesis depending on light in A. annua. This study provides new insights into the integration of light and phytohormone signaling to regulate terpene biosynthesis in plants.
Pepper SnRK2.6‐activated MEKK protein CaMEKK23 is directly and indirectly modulated by clade A PP2Cs in response to drought stress
Authors: Jeong Soongon , Lim Chae Woo , Lee Sung Chul
Published: December 2022

The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) is important for the plant growth and development, in which it plays a key role in the responses to drought stress. Among the core components of ABA signaling, SnRK2s interact with a range of proteins, including Raf‐like MAP3Ks.

In this study, we isolated the pepper MEKK subfamily member CaMEKK23 that interacts with CaSnRK2.6. CaMEKK23 has kinase activity and is specifically trans‐phosphorylated by CaSnRK2.6. Compared with control plants, CaMEKK23‐silenced pepper were found to be sensitive to drought stress and insensitive to ABA, whereas overexpression of CaMEKK23 in both pepper and Arabidopsis plants induced the opposite phenotypes. These altered phenotypes were established to be dependent on the kinase activity of CaMEKK23, which was also shown to interact with CaPP2Cs, functioning upstream of CaSnRK2.6.

In addition to inhibiting the kinase activity of CaMEKK23, these CaPP2Cs were found to have inhibitory effects on CaSnRK2.6. Using CaMEKK23‐, CaAITP1/CaMEKK23‐, CaSnRK2.6‐, and CaAITP1/CaSnRK2.6‐silenced pepper, we revealed that CaMEKK23 and CaSnRK2.6 function downstream of CaAITP1.

Collectively, our findings indicate that CaMEKK23 plays a positive regulatory role in the ABA‐mediated drought stress responses in pepper plants, and that its phosphorylation status is modulated by CaSnRK2.6 and CaPP2Cs, functioning as core components of ABA signaling.
Are Girls' and Boys' Cognitive Test Performance in Adolescence Differently Affected by Deprivation at Earlier Ages?*
Authors: Duc Le Thuc , Behrman Jere R.
Published: December 2022

Using data on the Millennium Children from the Young Lives Survey in Ethiopia, India, Peru, and Vietnam, we find that earlier nutritional growth and household wealth are important predictors of adolescent outcomes in math, reading, and receptive vocabulary for all children. Gender differences in the effect of wealth are significant mostly for non‐poor regions. The cognitive outcomes at age 8 are more strongly associated with growth between ages 1 and 5 for girls than boys. The gender differences reverse after age 8 mostly due to strong associations between growth in preadolescence ages and cognitive outcomes at age 15 for boys. Under the conditional mean independence assumption, the estimators for growth of the children are unbiased and consistent.
Focal melanocytic lesions of the oral mucosa: An epidemiological and morphological study
Authors: Santana Thalita , Queiroz Aline , Gonçales Luara Maria Cerioni , Andrade Natália Silva , Trierveiler Marília
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study aimed to analyse the clinical and histopathological characteristics of focal oral melanocytic lesions in a Brazilian reference service in Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted over an 18‐year period. Demographic data and clinical features were collected from the archives, and all biopsy specimens diagnosed as oral melanocytic lesions were retrieved and reviewed.

Results

We identified 339 melanocytic lesions. Of these, 191 were melanotic macules, 112 melanocytic nevi, 14 mucosal lentigo simplex, 12 melanomas, 9 solar lentigos, and 1 melanoacanthoma. Lesions occurred mostly in white‐skinned (74.2%) women (65.2%). The main reported clinical aspect was the macule (67.4%), and the most affected site was the lip vermilion (25.4%), followed by the palate (22.9%). Melanomas were larger in size and were observed in older patients with an overall shorter time of onset. The most frequent subtypes of melanocytic nevi were intramucosal (44.6%), compound (24.1%), and blue nevus (20.5%). They showed a heterogeneous architectural pattern with the presence of the three cell types.

Conclusion

The most frequent lesions are melanotic macule and nevus, especially the intramucosal subtype. Patients are usually white‐skinned women presenting a small, long‐lasting, macular lesion on the lip vermilion or palate.