bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hoyle–Lyttleton accretion on to black hole accretion disks with super-Eddington luminosity for dusty gas
Authors: Ogata Erika , Ohsuga Ken , Yajima Hidenobu
Published: May 2021

We investigate the Hoyle–Lyttleton accretion of dusty gas for the case where the central source is the black hole accretion disk. By solving the equation of motion taking into account the radiation force which is attenuated by the dust absorption, we reveal the steady structure of the flow around the central object. We find that the mass accretion rate tends to increase with an increase of the optical thickness of the flow and the gas can accrete even if the disk luminosity exceeds the Eddington luminosity for the dusty gas, since the radiation force is weakened by the attenuation via the dust absorption. When the gas flows in from the direction of the rotation axis for the disk with Γ′ = 3.0, the accretion rate is about $93\%$ of the Hoyle–Lyttleton accretion rate if τHL = 3.3 and zero for τHL = 1.0, where Γ′ is the Eddington ratio for the dusty gas and τHL is the typical optical thickness of the Hoyle–Lyttleton radius. Since the radiation flux in the direction of disk plane is small, the radiation force tends not to prevent gas accretion from the direction near the disk plane. For τHL = 3.3 and Γ′ = 3.4, although the accretion is impossible in the case of Θ = 0°, the accretion rate is $28\%$ of the Hoyle–Lyttleton one in the case of Θ = 90°, where Θ is the angle between the direction the gas is coming from and the rotation axis of the disk. We also obtain relatively high accretion luminosity that is realized when the accretion rate of the disk on to the BH is consistent with that via the Hoyle–Lyttleton mechanism taking into account the effect of radiation. This implies that the intermediate-mass black holes moving in the dense dusty gas are identified as luminous objects in the infrared band.
Phosphate Suppression of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis Involves Gibberellic Acid Signaling
Authors: Nouri Eva , Surve Rohini , Bapaume Laure , Stumpe Michael , Chen Min , Zhang Yunmeng , Ruyter-Spira Carolien , Bouwmeester Harro , Glauser Gaëtan , Bruisson Sébastien , Reinhardt Didier
Published: May 2021

Most land plants entertain a mutualistic symbiosis known as arbuscular mycorrhiza with fungi (Glomeromycota) that provide them with essential mineral nutrients, in particular phosphate (Pi), and protect them from biotic and abiotic stress. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis increases plant productivity and biodiversity and is therefore relevant for both natural plant communities and crop production. However, AM fungal populations suffer from intense farming practices in agricultural soils, in particular Pi fertilization. The dilemma between natural fertilization from AM symbiosis and chemical fertilization has raised major concern and emphasizes the need to better understand the mechanisms by which Pi suppresses AM symbiosis. Here, we test the hypothesis that Pi may interfere with AM symbiosis via the phytohormone gibberellic acid (GA) in the Solanaceous model systems Petunia hybrida and Nicotiana tabacum. Indeed, we find that GA is inhibitory to AM symbiosis and that Pi may cause GA levels to increase in mycorrhizal roots. Consistent with a role of endogenous GA as an inhibitor of AM development, GA-defective N. tabacum lines expressing a GA-metabolizing enzyme (GA methyltransferase—GAMT) are colonized more quickly by the AM fungus Rhizoglomus irregulare, and exogenous Pi is less effective in inhibiting AM colonization in these lines. Systematic gene expression analysis of GA-related genes reveals a complex picture, in which GA degradation by GA2 oxidase plays a prominent role. These findings reveal potential targets for crop breeding that could reduce Pi suppression of AM symbiosis, thereby reconciling the advantages of Pi fertilization with the diverse benefits of AM symbiosis.
Rice Non-Specific Phospholipase C6 Is Involved in Mesocotyl Elongation
Authors: Yang Di , Liu Xiong , Yin Xiaoming , Dong Tian , Yu Min , Wu Yan
Published: May 2021

Mesocotyl elongation of rice is crucial for seedlings pushing out of deep soil. The underlying mechanisms of phospholipid signaling in mesocotyl growth of rice are elusive. Here we report that the rice non-specific phospholipase C6 (OsNPC6) is involved in mesocotyl elongation. Our results indicated that all five OsNPCs (OsNPC1, OsNPC2, OsNPC3, OsNPC4 and OsNPC6) hydrolyzed the substrate phosphatidylcholine to phosphocholine (PCho), and all of them showed plasma membrane localization. Overexpression (OE) of OsNPC6 produced plants with shorter mesocotyls compared to those of Nipponbare and npc6 mutants. Although the mesocotyl growth of npc6 mutants was not much affected without gibberellic acid (GA)3, it was obviously elongated by treatment with GA. Upon GA3 treatment, SLENDER RICE1 (SLR1), the DELLA protein of GA signaling, was drastically increased in OE plants; by contrast, the level of SLR1 was found decreased in npc6 mutants. The GA-enhanced mesocotyl elongation and the GA-impaired SLR1 level in npc6 mutants were attenuated by the supplementation of PCho. Further analysis indicated that the GA-induced expression of phospho-base N-methyltransferase 1 in npc6 mutants was significantly weakened by the addition of PCho. In summary, our results suggest that OsNPC6 is involved in mesocotyl development via modulation of PCho in rice.
Natural diversity provides a broad spectrum of cyanobacteriochrome-based diguanylate cyclases
Authors: Blain-Hartung Matthew , Rockwell Nathan C. , Lagarias J. Clark
Published: May 2021

Cyanobacteriochromes (CBCRs) are spectrally diverse photosensors from cyanobacteria distantly related to phytochromes that exploit photoisomerization of linear tetrapyrrole (bilin) chromophores to regulate associated signaling output domains. Unlike phytochromes, a single CBCR domain is sufficient for photoperception. CBCR domains that regulate the production or degradation of cyclic nucleotide second messengers are becoming increasingly well characterized. Cyclic di-guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) is a widespread small-molecule regulator of bacterial motility, developmental transitions, and biofilm formation whose biosynthesis is regulated by CBCRs coupled to GGDEF (diguanylate cyclase) output domains. In this study, we compare the properties of diverse CBCR-GGDEF proteins with those of synthetic CBCR-GGDEF chimeras. Our investigation shows that natural diversity generates promising candidates for robust, broad spectrum optogenetic applications in live cells. Since light quality is constantly changing during plant development as upper leaves begin to shade lower leaves—affecting elongation growth, initiation of flowering, and responses to pathogens, these studies presage application of CBCR-GGDEF sensors to regulate orthogonal, c-di-GMP-regulated circuits in agronomically important plants for robust mitigation of such deleterious responses under natural growing conditions in the field.
Evaluation of anxiety, depression and sleep quality in full-time teleworkers
Authors: Afonso Pedro , Fonseca Miguel , Teodoro Tomás
Published: May 2021

Background

Mental health-related positive and negative aspects of telework are understudied. This study aimed to evaluate anxiety, depression and sleep quality in full-time teleworkers during lockdown imposed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and explore potential relationships between these variables, sociodemographic characteristics, quality of life and perceived productivity.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 143 full-time teleworkers. Participants were assessed for anxiety, depression and sleep quality using validated clinical instruments.

Results

This study found a high prevalence of poor sleep quality (74%, N = 106). Participants reported anxiety/depressive symptoms with the predominance of anxiety and very high levels of sleep impairment. Better sleep quality was associated with longer sleep duration and better job satisfaction, whereas the use of hypnotic medication and higher depression/anxiety scores seem to point a correlation with sleep impairment. Anxiety/depression positively correlated with worse sleep quality and negatively associated with quality of life. Male sex was negatively associated with perceived productivity.

Conclusions

A higher prevalence of poor sleep quality was found in comparison with other studies performed during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as high levels of anxiety and depression. These results highlight the relevance of considering the potential negative impact of telework on mental health.
Factors associated with work performance and mental health of healthcare workers during pandemics: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nowrouzi-Kia Behdin , Sithamparanathan Gobika , Nadesar Nirusa , Gohar Basem , Ott Markus
Published: May 2021

Introduction Healthcare workers’ work performance and mental health are associated with positive mental health outcomes and directly related to increased productivity and decreased disability costs.

Methods We conducted a systematic review to identify factors associated with work performance of healthcare workers during a pandemic and conducted a meta-analysis of the prevalence of mental health outcomes in this context. Primary papers were collected and analysed using the Population/Intervention/Comparison/Outcome framework and using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. To critically appraise the studies included in the review, we used the AXIS appraisal tool to assess each cross-sectional study’s quality.

Results The study identified nine factors associated with the work performance and mental health of healthcare workers, including experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, having inadequate support, experiencing occupational stress, decreased productivity, lack of workplace preparedness, financial concerns associated with changes in income and daily living, fear of transmission and burnout/fatigue.

Conclusion There is a rapidly rising need to address the work performance and mental health of healthcare workers providing timely care to patients. Regular and sustained interventions, including the use of information and communication technologies such as telehealth, are warranted.
Director Appointments: It Is Who You Know
Authors: Cai Jay , Nguyen Tu , Walkling Ralph
Published: May 2021

Using 9,801 director appointments during 2003–2014, we document the dramatic impact of connections. Sixty-nine percent of new directors have professional ties to incumbent boards, a group representing 13$\%$ of all potential candidates. Consistent with facilitating coordination and reducing search costs, connections help boards bring in gender diversity, new skills, and new industry background. More complex firms and firms in more competitive environments tend to appoint connected directors and experience better market reactions and higher shareholder votes. Connections to incumbent CEOs, however, result in lower announcement returns and shareholder votes. We use death (merger)-induced network loss (gain) as instruments.
Influence of Enogen Feed corn and conventional yellow dent corn in pelleted or meal-based diets on finishing pig performance and carcass characteristics
Authors: Williams Hadley R , Tokach Mike D , Woodworth Jason C , DeRouchey Joel M , Goodband Robert D , Gebhardt Jordan T
Published: May 2021

Genetic modification of corn has enhanced the use of different corn hybrids in animal agriculture. Enogen Feed corn, developed by Syngenta Seeds (Downers Grove, IL), has potential for use in livestock diets due to increase α-amylase enzyme in the corn thus improving starch digestibility. In addition, the pelleting process also increases starch gelatinization which increases its digestibility by the pig, increasing growth rate and improving feed efficiency. Therefore, pelleting Enogen Feed corn might prove to provide a greater response in growth performance than conventional yellow dent corn. Thus, the objective of this experiment was to determine the effects of corn source and diet form on growth performance and carcass characteristics of finishing pigs. A total of 288 pigs (53.0 ± 0.5 kg) were used with eight pigs per pen and nine pens per treatment in a 72-d study. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial with main effects of corn source (Enogen Feed corn or conventional yellow dent corn) and diet form (meal or pellet). For overall (d 0 to 72) performance, no interactions between corn source and diet form were observed. There was a tendency (P < 0.10) for slightly improved average daily gain (ADG) and gain:feed ratio (G:F) for pigs fed conventional yellow dent corn compared to those fed Enogen Feed corn. For feed form, pigs fed pelleted diets had increased (P < 0.001) ADG and G:F compared to pigs fed meal diets. For carcass characteristics, pigs fed pelleted diets had increased hot carcass weight compared to pigs fed meal diets (P < 0.001). In summary, feeding pelleted diets to finishing pigs increased ADG and improved feed efficiency compared to those fed meal-based diets. There were no major differences between observed corn sources or interactions between corn source and diet form on growth performance.
Different strategies lead to a common outcome: different water-deficit scenarios highlight physiological and biochemical strategies of water-deficit tolerance in diploid versus tetraploid Volkamer lemon
Authors: Khalid Muhammad Fasih , Vincent Christopher , Morillon Raphael , Anjum Muhammad Akbar , Ahmad Shakeel , Hussain Sajjad
Published: May 2021

Water scarcity restricts citrus growth and productivity worldwide. In pot conditions, tetraploid plants tolerate water deficit more than their corresponding diploids. However, their tolerance mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we focused on which mechanisms (i.e., hydraulic, osmotic or antioxidative) confer water-deficit tolerance to tetraploids. We exposed diploid and tetraploid Volkamer lemon rootstock (Citrus volkameriana Tan. and Pasq.) to quickly (fast) and slowly (slow) developing water-deficit conditions. We evaluated their physiological, antioxidative defense and osmotic adjustment responses, and mineral distribution to leaves and roots. Water-deficit conditions decreased the photosynthetic variables of both diploid and tetraploid plants. Moreover, the corresponding decrease was greater in diploids than tetraploids. Higher concentrations of antioxidant enzymes, osmoprotectants and antioxidant capacity were found in the leaves and roots of tetraploids than diploids under water deficit. Diploid plants showed fast response in slow water-deficit condition, but that response did not persist as the deficit intensified. Meanwhile, tetraploids had lower water loss, which slowed the onset of slow water deficit relative to diploids. This response allowed stronger photosynthesis, while antioxidant and osmoprotectant production allowed for further tolerance once desiccation began. Overall, our results concluded that Volkamer lemon tetraploid plants tolerate rapid and slow water deficit by maintaining their photosynthesis due to low conductance (stem or roots), which helps to avoid desiccation, and stronger biochemical defense machinery than their corresponding diploids.
Negotiation Training for Case Managers to Improve Older Adult Acceptance of Services
Authors: Campbell Mobola , Seltzer Anne , Ramirez-Zohfeld Vanessa , Lindquist Lee A.
Published: May 2021

Purpose of Study:

Older adults frequently choose not to accept recommended social support services (e.g., caregiver and home therapy). Social workers/case managers (SWs/CMs) are often caught in the conflict encouraging patients to accept services, but facing resistance. As a result, older adults may experience unsafe home scenarios and hospital discharges. This research sought to examine whether business school negotiation and dispute resolution (NDR) training could ease these conflicts and potentially improve outcomes for both older adults and SWs/CMs.

Practice Settings:

Urban health care system (pilot), national case management conference (implementation).

Methodology and Sample:

Researchers tailored the NDR training, offered at graduate business schools, for SWs/CMs. Researchers then pilot tested the NDR training at an urban hospital and implemented it with a national cohort of SWs/CMs at a national case management conference. Participants completed a survey that ascertained conflicts, utility of the NDR program, real-world applicability, and future directions.

Results:

Eighty-five SW/CM participants, from 22 states, completed the NDR training and survey. Participants reported experiencing conflicts frequently in their workday. Post-NDR training, respondents were very positive about the knowledge gained from the course, specifically noting themes of learning the negotiation basics, tactics (e.g., framing), and integrative strategies (e.g., win-win/expanding to multi-issue discussions). All participants planned to use the NDR skills in the future.

Implications for Case Management Practice:

The NDR training program can provide SWs/CMs with formal strategies to facilitate older adults' acceptance of social services while balancing patient autonomy. Learning negotiating techniques can be “win-win” for both older adults' home safety and case manager well-being.
The Pandemic's Secondary Statistics
Authors: Powell Suzanne K.
Published: May 2021

Although accurate secondary statistics may never be known, the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly been a major contributor to several health care issues: social isolation/loneliness, behavioral sequelae (anxiety, drug overdoses, and suicide), delays in treating preventive care that lead to late-stage diagnoses, and even a resurgence of drug-resistant infections.
Kynurenines Increase MRS Metabolites in Basal Ganglia and Decrease Resting State Connectivity in Frontostriatal Reward Circuitry in Depression
Authors: Chen Xiangchuan , Beltran Diana J. , Tsygankova Valeriya D , Woolwine Bobbi J. , Patel Trusharth , Baer Wendy , Felger Jennifer C. , Miller Andrew H. , Haroon Ebrahim
Published: May 2021

Inflammation is associated with depressive symptoms including anhedonia in patients with major depression. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which peripheral inflammatory signals are communicated to the brain to influence central nervous system (CNS) function has yet to be fully elucidated. Based on laboratory animal studies, molecules of the kynurenine pathway (KP), which is activated by inflammation, can readily enter the brain, and generate metabolites that can alter neuronal and glial function, leading to behavioral changes. We therefore examined the relationship between KP metabolites in the plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain chemistry and neural network function using multi-modal neuroimaging in 49 unmedicated, depressed subjects. CNS measures included 1) biochemical markers of glial dysfunction including glutamate (Glu) and myo-inositol (mI) in the left basal ganglia (LBG) using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS); 2) local activity coherence (regional homogeneity, ReHo) and functional connectivity using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging; and 3) anhedonia from the Inventory for Depressive Symptoms-Self Reported. Plasma quinolinic acid (QA) was associated with increases and kynurenic acid (KYNA) and KYNA/QA with decreases in LBG Glu. Plasma kynurenine/tryptophan and CSF 3-hydroxy kynurenine (3HK) were associated with increases in LBG mI. Plasma and CSF KP were associated with decreases in ReHo in LBG and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC), and impaired functional connectivity between these two brain regions. DMPFC-BG connectivity mediated the effect of plasma and CSF KP metabolites on anhedonia. These findings highlight the contribution of KP metabolites to glial and neuronal dysfunction and ultimately behavior in depression.
Biomarker-guided neuromodulation aids memory in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Kahana Michael J. , Wanda Paul A. , Ezzyat Youssef , Solomon Ethan A. , Adamovich-Zeitlin Richard , Lega Bradley , Jobst Barbara C. , Gross Robert E. , Ding Kan , Diaz-Arrastia Ramon R.
Published: May 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of cognitive disability in adults, often characterized by marked deficits in episodic memory and executive function. Prior studies have found that direct electrical stimulation of the temporal cortex yielded improved memory in epilepsy patients, but it is not clear if these results generalize to patients with a specific history of TBI. Here we asked whether applying closed-loop, direct electrical stimulation to lateral temporal cortex could reliably improve memory in a TBI cohort. Among a larger group of patients undergoing neurosurgical evaluation for refractory epilepsy, we recruited a subset patients with a history of moderate-to-severe TBI. By analyzing neural data from indwelling electrodes as patients studied and recalled lists of words, we trained personalized machine-learning classifiers to predict momentary fluctuations in mnemonic function in each patient. We subsequently used these classifiers to trigger high-frequency stimulation of the lateral temporal cortex (LTC) at moments when memory was predicted to fail. This strategy yielded a 19% boost in recall performance on stimulated as compared with non-stimulated lists (P = 0.012). These results provide a proof-of-concept for using closed-loop stimulation of the brain in treatment of TBI-related memory impairment.
The roadmap for implementing value based healthcare in European university hospitals - consensus report and recommendations
Authors: Cossio-Gil Yolima , Stamm Tanja , Omara Maisa , Watson Carolina , Casey Joseph , Chakhunashvili Alex , Crémieux François , Gutiérrez-San Miguel María , Kahlem Pascal , Keuchkerian Samuel , Kirchberger Valerie , Luce-Garnier Virginie , Michiels Dominik , Moro Matteo , Philipp-Jaschek Barbara , Sancini Simona , Hazelzet Jan
Published: May 2021

Value based healthcare (VBHC) aims at improving patient outcomes while optimizing the use of hospitals’ resources among medical personnel, administrations and support services through an evidence-based, collaborative approach.

In this paper, we present a blueprint for the implementation of VBHC in hospitals, based on our experience as members of the European University Hospital Alliance (EUHA). The EUHA is a consortium of nine large hospitals in Europe and aims at increasing quality and efficiency of care to ultimately drive better outcomes for patients. The blueprint describes how to prepare hospitals for VBHC implementation, analyses gaps, barriers and facilitators and explores the most effective ways to turn patient pathways to a process that results in high value care. Using a patient centric approach, we identified four core minimum components that must be established as cornerstones and seven organisational enablers to waive the barriers to implementation and ensure sustainability. The blueprint guides through pathway implementation and establishment of key performance indicators in six phases, which hospitals can tailor to their current status on their way to implement VBHC.
Impact of the household environment risk for maintenance of natural foci ofLeishmania infantumtransmission to human and animal hosts in endemic areas for visceral leishmaniasis in Sao Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Matsumoto Patricia Sayuri Silvestre , Hiramoto Roberto Mitsuyoshi , Richini Pereira Virgínia Bodelão , Camprigher Valéria Medina , Taniguchi Helena Hilomi , de Raeffray Barbosa José Eduardo , de Barros Cortez Luiz Ricardo Paes , da Silva Fonseca Elivelton , Guimarães Raul Borges , Tolezano José Eduardo
Published: May 2021

When it comes to visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in Brazil, one of the main targets of public health policies of surveillance is the control of domestic canine reservoirs ofLeishmania infantum. This paper aims to evaluate the effect of the household environment risk in the maintenance of natural foci and in the transmission to human and animal hosts in an endemic city for VL, Bauru, in Brazil. We collected 6,578 blood samples of dogs living in 3,916 households from Nov.2019 to Mar.2020 and applied geospatial models to predict the disease risk based on the canine population. We used Kernel density estimation, cluster analysis, geostatistics and Generalized Additive Models (GAM). To validate our models, we used cross-validation and created a ROC graph. We found an overall canine VL (CVL) prevalence of 5.6%. Odds ratios (OR) for CVL increased progressively according to the number of canines for >2 dogs (OR 2.70); households that already had CVL in the past increased the chances for CVL currently (OR 2.73); and the cases of CVL increase the chances for human VL cases (OR 1.16). Our models were statistically significant and demonstrated an association between the canine and human disease, mainly in VL foci that remain endemic. Although the Kernel ratio map had the best performance (AUC=82), all the models showed high risk in the city’s northwest area. Canine population dynamics must be considered in public policies and geospatial methods may help target priority areas and planning VL surveillance in low and middle-income countries.

Highlights

Two or more dogs in a household increase the chances for canine visceral leishmaniasis.

Canine visceral leishmaniasis or households with positive dogs increase the chances for human visceral leishmaniasis.

Households that already had an infected dog increase the chances for canine visceral leishmaniasis, and it can work as silent endemic areas.

More than 40 dogs in an area of influence of household (100m buffer) increase the chances for canine and human visceral leishmaniasis.

Canine population dynamics must be considered in public policies regarding visceral leishmaniasis control in low and middle-income countries.

Spatial analysis tools can bring new insights into decision-making and public policies regarding visceral leishmaniasis.
Assessing the Impact of Human Mobility to Predict Regional Excess Death in Ecuador
Authors: Cuéllar Leticia , Torres Irene , Romero-Severson Ethan , Mahesh Riya , Ortega Nathaniel , Pungitore Sara , Ke Ruian , Hengartner Nicolas
Published: May 2021

COVID-19 outbreaks have had high mortality in low- and medium-income countries such as Ecuador. Human mobility is an important factor influencing the spread of diseases possibly leading to a high burden of disease at the country level. Drastic control measures, such as complete lockdown are effective epidemic controls, yet in practice, one hopes that a partial shutdown would suffice. It is an open problem to determine how much mobility can be allowed while controlling an outbreak. In this paper, we use statistical models to relate human mobility to the excess death in Ecuador while controlling for demographic factors. The mobility index provided by GRANDATA, based on mobile phone users, represents the change of number of out-of-home events with respect to a benchmark date (March 2nd, the first date the data is available). The study confirms the global trend that more men are dying than expected compared to women, and that people under 30 show less deaths than expected. Specifically, individuals in the age groups younger than 20, we found have their death rate reduced during the pandemic between 22% and 27% of the expected deaths in the absence of COVID-19. The weekly median mobility time series shows a sharp decrease in human mobility immediately after a national lockdown was declared on March 17, 2020 and a progressive increase towards the pre-lockdown level within two months. Relating median mobility to excess death shows a lag in its effect: first, a decrease in mobility in the previous two to three weeks decreases the excess death and more novel, we found that an increase of mobility variability four weeks prior, increases the number of excess deaths.
A prospective, split-Face, comparative study of combined Q-switch Nd:YAG laser and microdermabrasion versus Q-switch Nd:YAG laser alone in treatment of melasma
Authors: Hatami Parvaneh , Asl Hamed Nicknam , Aryanian Zeinab
Published: May 2021

Background

Melasma is a common disorder of hyperpigmentation with a great effect on quality of life. In an uncontrolled study, a novel combination treatment approach, using a low-fluence Q-switched (QS) Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Nd:YAG) Laser in conjunction with microdermabrasion was shown to be effective in clearance of melasma(1).

Objective

The purpose of the current prospective, controlled study was to determine if microdermabrasion, when combined with Nd:YAG laser, produced significant improvement of melasma compared to Nd:YAG laser alone.

Methods

Twenty patients with bilaterally distributed facial melasma were subjected to QS-Nd:YAG laser therapy with microdermabrasion on one side and laser therapy alone on the other side of their faces every four weeks for three sessions. Photographs were obtained before treatment, one month and three months postoperatively.

Results

Although both sides improved from baseline to the 24th week, there was no statistically significant difference between both sides in regards to MASI (Melasma Area and Severity Index) as well as PGA (Patient Global melasma improvement Assessment) scores.

Conclusion

Combination therapy with Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and microdermabrasion seems to be as effective as Q-switched Nd:YAG laser alone and doesn’t have any advantage or disadvantage in comparison with conventional laser therapy.
Evaluation of a Rapid Implementation of Telemedicine for Delivery of Obstetric Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Reid Chinyere N. , Marshall Jennifer , Fryer Kimberly
Published: May 2021

Objective

The aim of this evaluation was to assess the rapid implementation of obstetric telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic using the Consolidated Framework in Implementation Research (CFIR) evaluation framework.

Study Design

Following one month of telemedicine implementation, obstetric providers at the University of South Florida clinic completed qualitative surveys and in-depth interviews about the implementation of obstetric telemedicine in the clinic guided by the CFIR evaluation framework.

Results

Overall, providers considered obstetric telemedicine comparable to traditional in-person clinic visits and acknowledged that they were adequately prepared for the telemedicine implementation. Advantages included the simplicity of implementation, reduced exposure to COVID-19 infection, and convenience factors. Although obstetric telemedicine mostly met patient needs, a lack of access to at-home monitoring devices, physical examinations, reliable internet service, and privacy concerns posed as barriers.

Conclusion

The implementation of the obstetric telemedicine care model was deemed a favorable, safe alternative option for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rare variants in the outcome of social skills group training for autism
Authors: Li Danyang , Olsson Nora Choque , Becker Martin , Arora Abishek , Jiao Hong , Norgren Nina , Jonsson Ulf , Bölte Sven , Tammimies Kristiina
Published: May 2021

Background

Exome sequencing has been proposed as the first-tier genetic testing in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here, we performed exome sequencing in autistic individuals with average to high intellectual abilities (N = 207) to identify a molecular diagnosis of ASD and genetic modulators of intervention outcomes following social skills group training (SSGT) or standard care.

Methods

Within a randomized controlled trial of SSGT, we performed exome sequencing to prioritize variants of clinical significance (VCSs), variants of uncertain significance (VUSs) and generated a pilot scheme to calculate genetic scores representing the genetic load of rare and common variants in the synaptic transmission pathway (GSSyTrand GSSyTc). The association with the primary outcomes (parent-reported autistic traits, Social Responsiveness Scale) was computed using a mixed linear model. Behavioral and genetic features were combined in a machine learning (ML) model to predict the individual response within the cohort.

Results

In total, 4.4% (n = 9) and 11.3% (n = 23) of the cohort carried VCSs and VUSs, respectively. Compared to non-carriers, individuals with VCS or VUS together tended to have limited improvements of the interventions (β = 9.22; CI (−0.25, 18.70); P = 0.057) and improved significantly less from standard care (β = 9.35; CI (0.70, 18.00); P = 0.036), but not from SSGT (β = -2.50; CI (−13.34, 8.35); P = 0.65). In addition, both GSSyTrand GSSyTcwere associated with differential outcomes in standard care and SSGT groups. Our ML model showed the importance of rare variants for outcome prediction.

Conclusions

Autistic individuals with likely pathogenic rare variants identified by exome sequencing might benefit less from the standard care. SSGT could therefore be of heightened importance for this subgroup. Further studies are needed to understand genetic predisposition to intervention outcomes.

Trial registration

Social Skills Group Training (“KONTAKT”) for Children and Adolescent With High-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders (KONTAKT-RCT),NCT01854346. Submitted 20 April 2013 - Retrospectively registered,https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT01854346?view=record
Global research on syndemics: A meta-knowledge analysis (2001-2020)
Authors: Hossain Md Mahbub , Saha Nobonita , Rodela Tahmina Tasnim , Tasnim Samia , Nuzhath Tasmiah , Roy Tamal Joyti , Burdine James N. , Ahmed Helal Uddin , McKyer E. Lisako J. , Basu Banga Kamal , Ma Ping
Published: May 2021

Syndemics or synergies of cooccurring epidemics are widely studies across health and social sciences in recent years. We conducted a meta-knowledge analysis of articles published between 2001 to 2020 in this growing field of academic scholarship. We found a total of 830 articles authored by 3025 authors, mostly from high-income countries. Publications on syndemics are gradually increasing since 2003, with rapid development in 2013. Each article was cited more than 15 times on average, whereas most (n = 604) articles were original studies. Syndemics research focused on several areas, including HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, mental health, gender minority stressors, racism, violence, chronic physical and mental disorders, food insecurity, social determinants of health, and COVID-19. Moreover, biopsychosocial interactions between multiple health problems were studied across medical, anthropological, public health, and other disciplines of science. The limited yet rapidly evolving literature on syndemics informs transdisciplinary interests to understand complex coexisting health challenges in the context of systematic exclusion and structural violence in vulnerable populations. The findings also suggest applications of syndemic theory to evaluate clinical and public health problems, examine the socioecological dynamics of factors influencing health and wellbeing, and use the insights to alleviate health inequities in the intersections of synergistic epidemics and persistent contextual challenges for population health.
Rapid And high throughput RT-qPCR assay for identification and differentiation between SARS-CoV-2 variants B.1.1.7 and B.1.351
Authors: Erster Oran , Mendelson Ella , Levy Virginia , Kabat Areej , Mannasse Batya , Asraf Hadar , Azar Roberto , Ali Yaniv , Shirazi Rachel , Bucris Efrat , Bar-Ilan Dana , Mor Orna , Mandelboim Michal , Sofer Danit , Fleishon Shai , Zukerman Neta S
Published: May 2021

Emerging SARS-CoV-2 (SC-2) variants with increased infectivity and vaccine resistance are of major concern. Rapid identification of such variants is important for the public health activities and provide valuable data for epidemiological and policy decision making. We developed a multiplex quantitative RT-qPCR (qPCR) assay that can specifically identify and differentiate between the emerging B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 SC-2 variants. In a single assay, we combined four reactions: one that detects SC-2 RNA independently of the strain, one that detects the D3L mutation, which is specific to variant B.1.1.7, and one that detects the 242-244 deletion, which is specific to variant B.1.351. The fourth reaction identifies human RNAseP gene, serving as an endogenous control for RNA extraction integrity. We show that the strain-specific reactions target mutations that are strongly associated with the target variants, and not with other major known variants. The assay’s specificity was tested against a panel of respiratory pathogens (n=16), showing high specificity towards SC-2 RNA. The assay’s sensitivity was assessed using both In-vitro transcribed RNA and clinical samples, and was determined to be between 20 and 40 viral RNA copies per reaction. The assay performance was corroborated with Sanger and whole genome sequencing, showing complete agreement with the sequencing results. The new assay is currently implemented in the routine diagnostic work at the Central Virology Laboratory, and may be used in other laboratories to facilitate the diagnosis of these major worldwide circulating SC-2 variants.
Proteome, bioinformatic and functional analyses reveal a distinct and conserved metabolic pathway for bile salt degradation in the Sphingomonadaceae
Authors: Feller Franziska M. , Wöhlbrand Lars , Holert Johannes , Schnaars Vanessa , Elsner Lea , Mohn William W. , Rabus Ralf , Philipp Bodo
Published: May 2021

Bile salts are amphiphilic steroids with a C5 carboxylic side chain with digestive functions in vertebrates. Upon excretion, they are degraded by environmental bacteria. Degradation of the bile-salt steroid skeleton resembles the well-studied pathway for other steroids like testosterone, while specific differences occur during side-chain degradation and the initiating transformations of the steroid skeleton. Of the latter, two variants via either Δ1,4- or Δ4,6-3-ketostructures of the steroid skeleton exist for 7-hydroxy bile salts. While the Δ1,4- variant is well-known from many model organisms, the Δ4,6-variant involving a 7-hydroxysteroid dehydratase as key enzyme has not been systematically studied. Here, combined proteomic, bioinformatic and functional analyses of the Δ4,6-variant in Sphingobium sp. strain Chol11 were performed. They revealed a degradation of the steroid rings similar to the Δ1,4-variant except for the elimination of the 7-OH as key difference. In contrast, differential production of the respective proteins revealed a putative gene cluster for side-chain degradation encoding a CoA-ligase, an acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, a Rieske monooxygenase, and an amidase, but lacking most canonical genes known from other steroid-degrading bacteria. Bioinformatic analyses predicted the Δ4,6-variant to be widespread among the Sphingomonadaceae, which was verified for three type strains which also have the predicted side-chain degradation cluster. A second amidase in the side-chain degradation gene cluster of strain Chol11 was shown to cleave conjugated bile salts while having low similarity to known bile-salt hydrolases. This study signifies members of the Sphingomonadaceae remarkably well-adapted to the utilization of bile salts via a partially distinct metabolic pathway.

Importance

This study highlights the biochemical diversity of bacterial degradation of steroid compounds, in particular bile salts. Furthermore, it substantiates and advances knowledge of a variant pathway for degradation of steroids by sphingomonads, a group of environmental bacteria that are well-known for their broad metabolic capabilities. Biodegradation of bile salts is a critical process due to the high input of these compounds from manure into agricultural soils and wastewater treatment plants. In addition, these results may also be relevant for the biotechnological production of bile salts or other steroid compounds with pharmaceutical functions.
Glycerol monolaurate ameliorated intestinal barrier and immunity in broilers by regulating intestinal inflammation, antioxidant balance, and intestinal microbiota
Authors: Kong Linglian , Wang Zhenhua , Xiao Chuanpi , Zhu Qidong , Song Zhigang
Published: May 2021

Extensive interactions occur between a poultry host and its gut microbiome. Glycerol monolaurate (GML) possesses a large range of antimicrobial and immunoregulatory properties. This study was conducted to investigate the impact of different doses of GML (basal diets complemented with 0, 300, 600, 900, or 1200 mg/kg GML) on growth performance, intestinal barrier, and cecal microbiota in broiler chicks. Results revealed that feed intake increased after 900 and 1200 mg/kg GML were administered during the entire 14-day experiment period. Dietary GML decreased crypt depth and increased the villus height-to-crypt depth ratio of the jejunum. In the serum and jejunum, supplementation with more than 600 mg/kg GML reduced interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and malondialdehyde levels and increased the levels of immunoglobulin G, jejunal mucin 2, total antioxidant capacity, and total superoxide dismutase. GML down-regulated jejunal interleukin-1β and interferon-γ expression and increased the mRNA level of zonula occludens 1 and occludin. A reduced expression of toll-like receptor 4 and a tendency of down-regulated nuclear factor kappa-B was shown in GML-treated groups. In addition, GML modulated the composition of the cecal microbiota of the broilers, improved microbial diversity, and increased the abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed that the genera Barnesiella, Coprobacter, Lachnospiraceae, Faecalibacterium, Bacteroides, Odoriacter, and Parabacteroides were related to inflammation and intestinal integrity. In conclusion, GML ameliorated intestinal morphology and barrier function in broiler chicks probably by regulating intestinal immune and antioxidant balance, as well as intestinal microbiota.

IMPORTANCE

Antibiotic residues and resistance issues led to the ban of antibiotic growth promoters. GML is considered an efficacious antibiotic growth promoter alternative for animal health and has the potential to become a unique fungicide owing to its established safety, antibacterial properties, and immunomodulatory capacity. Despite the potential of GML as an additive in poultry feed, little is known about the influence of GML on cecal microbiota in broilers. The significance of our research was to determine the microbial mechanism by which GML worked.
Dynamic of humoral response to SARS-CoV-2 anti Nucleocapsid and Spike proteins after CoronaVac vaccination
Authors: Bochnia-Bueno Lucas , De Almeida Sergio Monteiro , Raboni Sonia Mara , Adamoski Douglas , Amadeu Ludmilla Louise Moreira , Carstensen Suzana , Nogueira Meri Bordignon
Published: May 2021

Background

This study aimed to calculate the seroconversion rate of the CoronaVac vaccine in healthcare workers (HCWs) after immunization.

Methods

Serum samples from 133 HCWs from Southern Brazil were collected one day before (Day 0) and +10, +20, +40, + 60, +110 days after administering the vaccine’s first dose. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) was quantified using immunoassays for anti-N-protein (nucleocapsid) antibodies (Abbott, Sligo, Ireland) and for anti-S1 (spike) protein antibodies (Euroimmun, Lübeck, Germany).

Results

Seroconversion by day 40 occurred in 129 (97%) HCWs for the S1 protein, and in 69 (51.87%) HCWs for the N protein. An absence of IgG antibodies (by both methodologies), occurred in two (1.5%) HCWs undergoing semiannual rituximab administration, and also in another two (1.5%) HCWs with no apparent reason.

Conclusion

This study showed that CoronaVac has a high seroconversion rate when evaluated in an HCW population.

Funding

This work was supported by the PROPLAN/Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba-Paraná, Brazil; FINEP, Funder of Studies and Projects, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Brazil Institutional Network, Project: Laboratories for Diagnostic Tests for COVID-19 (0494/20).
Evaluation of silver nanoparticles for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection in health workers: in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Almanza-Reyes Horacio , Moreno Sandra , Plascencia-López Ismael , Alvarado-Vera Martha , Patrón-Romero Leslie , Borrego Belén , Reyes-Escamilla Alberto , Valencia-Manzo Daniel , Brun Alejandro , Pestryakov Alexey , Bogdanchikova Nina
Published: May 2021

SARS-CoV-2 infection in hospital areas is of a particular concern, since the close interaction between health care personnel and patients diagnosed with COVID-19, which allows virus to be easily spread between them and subsequently to their families and communities. Preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare personnel is essential to reduce the frequency of infections and outbreaks during the pandemic considering that they work in high-risk areas. In this research, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were tested in vitro and shown to have an inhibitory effect on SARS-CoV-2 infection in cultured cells. Subsequently, we assess the effects of mouthwash and nose rinse with ARGOVIT® silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 contagion in health workers consider as high-risk group of acquiring the infection in the General Tijuana Hospital, Mexico, a hospital for the exclusive recruitment of patients diagnosed with COVID-19. We present a prospective randomized study of 231 participants that was carried out for 9 weeks (during the declaration of a pandemic). The “experimental” group was instructed to do mouthwash and nose rinse with the AgNPs solution; the “control” group was instructed to do mouthwashes and nose rinse in a conventional way. The incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection was significantly lower in the “experimental” group (two participants of 114, 1.8%) compared to the “control” group (thirty-three participants of 117, 28.2%), with a 84.8% efficiency. We conclude that the mouth and nasal rinse with AgNPs helps in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection in health personnel who are exposed to patients diagnosed with COVID-19.
Clinical utility of home versus hospital spirometry in fibrotic ILD: evaluation following INJUSTIS interim analysis
Authors: Khan Fasihul , Howard Lucy , Hearson Glenn , Edwards Colin , Barber Chris , Jones Steve , Wilson Andrew M , Maher Toby M , Saini Gauri , Stewart Iain , Jenkins Gisli
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic identified an urgent need to re-evaluate the provision of spirometry for clinical monitoring. Home spirometry offers the opportunity for real-time disease evaluation without risk of nosocomial infection. To determine the utility of home spirometry in interstitial lung disease (ILD), interim data from the ongoing INJUSTIS study was evaluated. High correlation was observed between home and hospital spirometry at baseline(r=0.89) and three-months(r=0.82). Over 90% of home spirometry values were within Bland-Altman agreement limits at both time points, although frequently underestimated hospital values. Home spirometry is feasible in people with fibrotic ILD.