bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Being overweight and born in the spring are associated with an increased risk for rhinitis
Authors: Goldberg Shmuel , Picard Elie , Joseph Leon , Kedem Ron , Sommer Adir , Tzur Dorit , Cohen Shlomo
Published: September 2022

Aim

To explore the relationship between the season of birth and the prevalence of recurrent or chronic rhinitis (rhinitis).

Methods

The medical records of consecutive 17‐year‐old conscripts to the Israeli army were reviewed. We compared the prevalence of rhinitis between children born during different seasons. Multivariate analysis was performed with additional variables.

Results

The prevalence of rhinitis among the 1.1 million recruits was 7.1% in males and 5.3% in females. The association between birth season and the prevalence of rhinitis was highly significant (p < 0.001 for both genders). Spring was the birth season with the highest prevalence of rhinitis (7.4% in males and 5.5% in females). Males born in the winter and females born in the autumn had the lowest prevalence of rhinitis (6.7%, and 5.2% respectively). There was an increased odds ratio for rhinitis among those with a body mass index above 25, higher cognitive score and maternal birth country out of Israel or Africa.

Conclusions

There was an increased risk of rhinitis among young Israeli adults who were born in the spring, were overweight and had a higher cognitive‐score. Family planning to avoid a spring birth and preventing overweight may reduce the risk of chronic rhinitis.
A 9‐gene prognostic signature for kidney renal clear cell carcinoma overall survival based on co‐expression and regression analyses
Authors: Zhu Wenwen , Ding Mengyu , Chang Jian , Liao Hui , Xiao Geqiong , Wang Qiong
Published: September 2022

This research attempted to screen potential signatures associated with KIRC progression and overall survival by weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) and Cox regression. The KIRC‐associated mRNA expression and clinical data were accessed from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened by differential analysis. A co‐expression network was constructed by “WGCNA”. Based on WGCNA module, GO and KEGG analyses were performed. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed. Prognostic signatures were screened by Lasso‐Cox regression. Prognostic model was evaluated by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) and Kaplan‐Meier (K‐M) curves. Multivariate Cox and nomogram were introduced to examine whether risk score could be an independent marker. qRT‐PCR was introduced to determine expression of 9 hub genes in KIRC clinical tumor tissues and adjacent tissues, respectively. Genes in the green module were highly associated with clinical status, and green module genes were significantly enriched in mitotic nuclear division, cell cycle, and p53 signaling pathway. Twenty‐six candidates were subsequently screened out from the green module. Next, a 9‐gene prognostic model (DLGAP5, NUF2, TOP2A, RRM2, HJURP, PLK1, AURKB, KIF18A, CCNB2) was constructed. The predicting ability of the model was optimal. Some cancer‐related signaling pathways were differently activated between two risk score groups. Additionally, under‐expression of some signature genes (AURKB, CCNB2, PLK1, RRM2, TOP2A) was associated with better survival rate for KIRC patients. Meanwhile, all 9 hub genes were substantially overexpressed in KIRC patients. A KIRC prognostic signature was screened in this study, contributing valuable findings to KIRC biomarker development.
An unusual penile lesion
Authors: Ong Eugene Liat Hui , Ratynska Marzena , Sherring Kate , Bunker Chris
Published: September 2022

We present an unusual case of an orange–brown penile lesion with a description of the histological findings.

Click here for the corresponding questions to this CME article.
Hypoxic glioma‐derived extracellular vesicles harboring MicroRNA‐10b‐5p enhance M2 polarization of macrophages to promote the development of glioma
Authors: Li Bingzhen , Yang Cheng , Zhu Zhanpeng , Chen Hao , Qi Bin
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The delivery of biomolecules by tumor cell‐secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs) is linked to the development of glioma. Here, the present study was implemented to explore the functional significance of hypoxic glioma cell‐derived EVs carrying microRNA‐10b‐5 (miR‐10b‐5p) on glioma with the involvement of polarization of M2 macrophages.

Methods

EVs were isolated from hypoxia‐stimulated glioma cells, and their role in polarization of M2 macrophages was studied by co‐culturing with macrophages. miR‐10b‐5p expression in glioma tissues, glioma‐derived EVs, and macrophages co‐cultured with EVs was characterized. Interaction among miR‐10b‐5p, NEDD4L, and PIK3CA was analyzed. The macrophages or glioma cells were transfected with overexpressing plasmid or shRNA to study the effects of miR‐10b‐5p/NEDD4L/PIK3CA on M2 macrophage polarization, and glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo.

Results

Promotive role of hypoxia‐stimulated glioma‐derived EVs in macrophage M2 polarization was confirmed. Elevation of miR‐10b‐5p occurred in glioma tissues, glioma‐derived EVs and macrophages co‐cultured with EVs, and stimulated M2 polarization of macrophages. NEDD4L was a target gene of miR‐10b‐5p. Overexpression of NEDD4L could inhibit PI3K/AKT pathway through increase in ubiquitination and degradation of PIK3CA. Hypoxic glioma‐derived EVs harboring upregulated miR‐10b‐5p triggered an M2 phenotype in macrophages as well as enhanced aggressive tumor biology of glioma cells via inhibition of PIK3CA/PI3K/AKT pathway by targeting NEDD4L.

Conclusions

In summary, miR‐10b‐5p delivered by hypoxic glioma‐derived EVs accelerated macrophages M2 polarization to promote the progression of glioma via NEDD4L/PIK3CA/PI3K/AKT axis.
Pelvic pain is a common prolapse symptom and improvement after ventral mesh rectopexy is more frequent than deterioration or de novo pain
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Bolckmans Roel , Ratnatunga Keshara , Gorissen Kim , Jones Oliver , Lindsey Ian , Cunningham Chris
Published: September 2022

Aim

The aim of this work was to assess the relationship between pelvic pain and rectal prolapse both before prolapse surgery and in the long term after ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR).

Method

Patients undergoing VMR between 2004 and 2017 were contacted. Outcomes including the severity of pelvic pain were recorded using a numeric rating scale.

Results

Four hundred and seventy eight of the 749 patients (64%) were successfully contacted. Of these, 39% reported pre‐existing pelvic pain prior to VMR (group A) and 61% were pain free (group B). The median follow‐up time was 8.0 years (interquartile range 5.0–10.0 years). Symptoms of obstructed defaecation were significantly more common (p = 0.002) in group A (91/187, 49%) than in group B (101/291, 35%). In contrast, faecal incontinence was more common (p = 0.007) in group B (75/291, 26%) than in group A (29/187, 15%). In group A, 76% showed improvement in pelvic pain after VMR: 61% were pain free and 39% had partial improvement in their pre‐existing pelvic pain. Patients with persistent pelvic pain were younger (p = 0.01) and more likely to have revisional surgery after VMR (p = 0.0003), but there was no relation to the indication for surgery (p = 0.59). In group B, 15% reported de novo pelvic pain after VMR, and this was more common in women under 50 years old (p = 0.001), when obstructed defaecation was the indication (p = 0.03), in mesh erosion (p = <0.05) and when associated with revisional surgery (p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Pelvic pain is common (39%) in patients undergoing prolapse surgery, and VMR improves this pain in most patients (76%). However, a significant number of patients fail to improve (12%), experience worsening of pain (12%) or develop de novo pelvic pain (15%).
Pleomorphic acquired digital fibrokeratoma: A novel clinicopathologic entity
Authors: Wang Leo L. , Abbott James J. , Jiang Angela J. , Hannah Claire , Rubin Adam I.
Published: September 2022

A 26‐year‐old male presented with a 2‐year history of a hyperkeratotic growth from the left index finger. Histopathology was consistent with an acquired digital fibrokeratoma with changes of a pleomorphic fibroma. Lesional cells were negative for CD34, Rb, and p53, and were positive for FXIIIa. We introduce the pleomorphic acquired digital fibrokeratoma as a novel clinicopathologic entity.
Organ transplant status, anatomic location, and age impact rates of adnexal involvement of actinic keratoses
Authors: McEwen Matthew W. , Tirado Mariantonieta , Lipman Sonja , Patel Tejesh , Jones Allison
Published: September 2022

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are pre‐malignant skin lesions that can give rise to squamous cell carcinomas. Involvement of adnexal structures by AKs has been postulated to confer resistance to therapy and facilitate malignant progression. In our study, we identified several factors associated with increased risk of adnexal involvement of AKs. We found an increased risk of follicular involvement in AKs on the head and neck, a slightly increased risk of eccrine involvement with increasing age, and an increased risk of eccrine involvement in organ transplant patients. Additionally, our data showed a higher overall rate of follicular involvement of AKs than previously reported.
Development of devices for interventional endoscopic ultrasound for the management of pancreatobiliary diseases
Authors: Itonaga Masahiro , Kitano Masayuki , Ashida Reiko
Published: September 2022

A variety of devices have been developed for interventional endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). EUS‐guided drainage of the bile duct and pancreatic duct, as well as fluid collection adjacent to the gastrointestinal tract, is performed by a procedure involving puncture, guidewire manipulation, tract dilation, and stent placement. Devices specialized for interventional EUS are being developed for each step of the procedure. Mechanical dilators such as bougie, balloon, and electrocautery dilators are used for tract dilation. Various types of plastic stents, self‐expandable metal stents, and lumen‐apposing metal stents specifically designed for interventional EUS are now available, including one‐step devices developed to improve the efficacy and safety of interventional EUS. In addition, radiofrequency ablation and the placement of fiducial markers and radioactive seeds under EUS guidance are now becoming established for pancreatic neoplasms. Such development of specialized devices has expanded the indications for interventional EUS, increased the success rate, and lowered the adverse event rate.
The moments we have not chosen
Authors: Kull Anne
Published: September 2022

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its justification by the head of the Russian Orthodox Church we have to re‐think the possibilities of our own God‐talk as well. Can we confess our unity of faith with this church, and continue to speak of peace and love? The great Russian chauvinism in its latest expression – the Russkii world – is spreading its madness. We cannot not lament the situation, we cannot turn a new page before Ukrainians and other victims of violent conflicts can do it as well.
Remnant tensile and creep properties of aluminized AISI 321 austenite stainless steel under prior creep–fatigue interaction
Authors: Chen Huitao , Li Wei , Chen Wei , Zhou Libo , Chen Jian , Zhang Shengde , Chen Anqi
Published: September 2022

Aluminized AISI 321 steels applied as heat exchange tube are generally subjected to creep–fatigue (C‐F) exposure during service. Remaining tensile and creep performance of this steel at 620°C were therefore studied under prior C‐F deformation. Results revealed that residual properties exhibit an initial increase and followed degradation with rising lifetime fraction of prior C‐F. The tensile strength and creep lifespan reach highest at 30% lifetime fraction, since dislocation cell networks are well developed and secondary nanotwins are activated at substrate. Additionally, dynamic recovery and wavy slips occurred in coatings partially accommodate local plastic deformations and inhibit defect initiations, avoiding premature material fracture. On the other hand, these networks could restrain the increase in coating thicknesses. When the lifetime fraction of prior C‐F increases to 80%, declined remnant properties are observed, which is attributed to the recovery of dislocation cells and carbide coarsening. Meanwhile, coating microcracks also accelerate steel failure.
Impact of unilateral trigeminal neuralgia on bilateral ocular surface alterations
Authors: Altaş Mustafa , Oltulu Pembe , Uca Ali Ulvi , Belviranlı Selman , Gündoğan Ali Osman , Mirza Enver , Oltulu Refik
Published: September 2022

Objective

To evaluate ocular surface alterations in both eyes of patients with unilateral trigeminal neuralgia (TN) compared with controls.

Background

Corneal nerves mainly originate from the trigeminal nerve, and neurosensory abnormalities are important factors in ocular surface alterations and dry eye etiopathogenesis.

Methods

Twenty‐four patients with idiopathic unilateral TN and 24 healthy controls with similar sex and age distributions were included in this cross‐sectional study conducted from February 15 to September 15, 2021. The eyes on the affected sides of the patients with TN were treated as Group 1, their contralateral eyes as Group 2, and the right eyes of the controls as Group 3. All participants were evaluated for tear film and ocular surface using the Schirmer 1 test, tear breakup time (TBUT), Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score, and conjunctival impression cytology grading.

Results

The mean (SD) ages of the patients with TN (17 of 24 females, 70.8%) and controls (15 of 24 females, 62.5%) were 49.7 (11.7) and 48.5 (9. 6) years, respectively. The median [25th, 75th percentile] Schirmer 1 test results in Groups 1, 2, and 3 were 5.0 [4.0, 14.0], 7.0 [3.2, 11.7], and 10.0 [6.0, 15.7] mm, respectively, with no statistically significant differences between Groups 1 and 2 (p = 0.697), Groups 1 and 3 (p = 0.133), or Groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.129). The median TBUT scores in Groups 1, 2, and 3 were 7.0 [5.0, 10.0], 8.0 [5.2, 10.0], and 12.5 [8.0, 13.0] s, respectively, showing reduced times for both Groups 1 and 2 versus Group 3 (median difference = −3.0 [95% CI: −5.0, −1.0], p = 0.001, and median difference = −3.0 [95% CI: −5.0, −2.0], p = 0.001, respectively). Conjunctival impression cytology grades were significantly higher in Groups 1 and 2 versus Group 3 (median difference = 2.0 [95% CI: 1.0, 2.0], p < 0.001, and median difference = 1.0 [95% CI: 1.0, 2.0], p < 0.001, respectively). The median OSDI score in TN patients (30.2 [25.0, 34.9]) was significantly higher than in the controls (8.3 [0.0, 18.7]), with a median difference of 20.8 (95% CI: 14.7, 27.1), p < 0.001.

Conclusion

Even if pain is unilateral in patients with TN, there are significant abnormalities in conjunctival cytology and tear functions in both eyes. There seem to be various pathophysiological mechanisms of TN that affect the bilateral ocular surface and lead to significant alterations.
Brazilian prisons in times of mass incarceration: Ambivalent transformations
Authors: Dal Santo Luiz
Published: September 2022

Most of the scholarship on the ‘punitive turn’ has claimed that there have been two main trends in punishment since the 1970s: the rise of incarceration rates (quantitative dimension) and the worsening of prison conditions (qualitative dimension). Scholars argue that, in parallel with the rise of mass incarceration, there has been a fall of the rehabilitative ideal. In this view, prisons in core countries have basically operated as a warehouse, working towards neutralisation and incapacitation. Both trends are also viewed as reflecting a global convergence of penal policies. The analysis of the Brazilian case challenges this supposed universality. Drawing on official prison data, reports from non‐governmental organisations, and secondary data, I argue that mass incarceration has not been accompanied by the same qualitative changes to prisons in ‘Western countries’ and Brazil. First, features of the so‐called warehouse prison, such as low levels of prison activities, have always been present in Brazilian prisons, and are not an effect of mass incarceration. Furthermore, the consequences of mass incarceration in Brazilian prisons have, in fact, been ambivalent and, in some cases, may have alleviated inmates’ suffering, rather than intensifying experiences of confinement. Finally, instead of neutralising and controlling criminals, Brazilian prisons under mass incarceration have contributed to the emergence, empowerment, recruitment and organisation of gangs, whose powers now transcend the physical barriers of prison walls.
Liquid fragility maximum in lithium borate glass‐forming melts related to the local structure
Authors: Alderman Oliver L. G. , Benmore Chris J. , Reynolds Bryce , Royle Brock , Feller Steve , Weber Rick J. K.
Published: September 2022

The structure of liquid lithium pyroborate, Li4B2O5 (J = Li/B = 2), has been measured over a wide temperature range by high‐energy X‐ray diffraction, and compared to that of its glass and borate liquids of other compositions. The results indicate a gradual increase in tetrahedral boron fraction from 3(1)% to 6(1)% during cooling from T = 1271(15) to 721(8) K, consistent with the larger N4 = 10(1)% found for the glass, and literature 11B nuclear magnetic resonance measurements. van't Hoff analysis based on a simple boron isomerization reaction BØ3O2– ⇌ BØO22– yields ΔH = 13(1) kJ mol–1 and ΔS = 40(1) J mol–1 K–1 for the boron coordination change from 4 to 3, which are, respectively, smaller and larger than found for singly charged isomers for J ≤ 1. With these, we extend our model for N4(J, T), nonbridging oxygen fraction fnbr(J, T), configurational heat capacity , and entropy Sconf(J, T) contributions up to J = 3. A maximum is revealed in at J = 1, and shown semi‐quantitatively to lead to a corresponding maximum in fragility contribution, akin to that observed in the total fragilities by temperature‐modulated differential scanning calorimetry. Lithium is bound to 4.6(2) oxygen in the pyroborate liquid, with 2.7(1) bonds centered around 1.946(8) Å and 1.9(1) around 2.42(1) Å. In the glass, nLiO = 5.4(4), the increase being due to an increase in the number of short Li–O bonds.
Health and social consequences of human rights violations in Rural Nigeria
Authors: Sandra Ikenyei N.
Published: September 2022

The violation of human rights is replete in many African communities. On a daily basis, people face the dilemma of distinguishing between what is right or wrong and mainly depend on prosecutors to determine when an act is legal or unconstitutional. Based on this, the rights of Africans are violated. The violations of human rights with little or no redress mechanisms has several consequences on victims. Violation makes life unbearably hard; this impacts adversely on health and social wellbeing. Although many researchers have examined human rights violations, few have explored its health consequences on vulnerable citizens. Thus, this study examined human rights violations and their social/health consequences on victims in Nigeria. Explanation of core variables was anchored on social action theory and health belief model. Data were generated with questionnaires as well as in‐depth and key informant interviews. Content and chi‐square test were used in analysing the data obtained in the course of the study. Responses from 67% of the respondents revealed that violation induces health challenges ranging from psychosomatic dissonance to anxiety, psychometric disturbances, psychosis, insomnia, delusion, suspicion paranoia, depression, high blood pressure, hypertension, disorientation, and stroke. Those who seek redress are embattled with difficult terrain. As such, victims become stoic and unpatriotic, often exhibiting unwholesome behaviours. With poor redress mechanisms, attack on institutions/authorities and loss of lives have increased. Based on these outcomes, this study recommends that supremacy of the constitution should be upheld and there should be massive socialization through educational curriculum modelling to create awareness.
Relationships among patient activation, social support and online health information seeking of community‐dwelling older adults living with coronary heart disease
Authors: Zhu Yaru , Song Yuting , Wang Yinuo , Ji Heqian , Wang Derong , Cai Shuo , Wang Aimin
Published: September 2022

Aims

To explore the relationship between patient activation (subjective initiative of patients to participate in disease management in self‐health care), social support, self‐efficacy and online health information seeking among older patients with coronary heart disease.

Design

A cross‐sectional and survey‐based design.

Methods

A total of 451 older patients with coronary heart disease were recruited from July to November 2021 from four communities in Qingdao, China. We collected data using the Patient Activation Measure, Social Support Rating Scale, Self‐Efficacy Scale and Online Health Information Seeking Scale. We performed structural equation modelling to analyse the data.

Results

The final model showed good model fit. Patient activation influenced online health information seeking directly (β  = .39, p  < .05) and indirectly through self‐efficacy (β  = .17, p  < .05). Social support influenced online health information seeking directly (β  = .23, p  < .05) and indirectly through self‐efficacy (β  = .03, p  < .05). Self‐efficacy directly influenced online health information seeking (β  = .26, p  < .05).

Conclusions

We identified the interrelationships of patient activation, social support and self‐efficacy and their influence on the online health information seeking of older patients with coronary heart disease. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for developing and evaluating interventions to enhance online health information seeking for older patients with coronary heart disease.

Impact

These findings add a better understanding of the relationship between patient activation, social support, self‐efficacy and online health information seeking in older patients with coronary heart disease, and help community health workers to intervene in the early stage of disease diagnosis.
Academic reading under a semantic enhancement environment: An empirical study on users' cognitive load and reading effect
Authors: Song Ningyuan , Chen Kejun , Jin Xiufang , Zhao Yuehua
Published: September 2022

Background

In the digital environment, users' academic reading behaviour has changed, working with many articles simultaneously to search, filter, scan, link, annotate and analyse content fragments. The semantic enhancement environment has been widely set with semantic technologies to offer additional and handy support for users and thus facilitate the reading process. Despite many efforts devoted to developing a semantic enhancement environment, less attention has been paid to its actual effects.

Objectives

This study aims to explore the effects of a semantic enhancement environment.

Methods

Elaborating on cognitive load theory and focusing on academic reading, this study compared users' cognitive load and reading effect under the semantic enhancement environment and plain text environment and verified the three hypotheses.

Results and conclusions

Through experiments and statistical analysis, this study found that, under a semantic enhancement environment, users had their cognitive load reduced and their reading effect improved. Consequently, a semantic enhancement environment promotes academic reading.

Takeaways

This study adds to previous literature on semantic publishing by empirically corroborating the conducive effects of semantic enhancement environment in academic reading. Additionally, it justifies semantic publishing and provides a reference for the future design of semantically enhanced reading environments.
Two sides of the same coin: A mixed methods study of Black mothers’ experiences with violence, stressors, parenting, and coping during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Hassoun Ayoub Lama , Partridge Ty , Gómez Jennifer M.
Published: September 2022

Due to systemic and structural inequities, the COVID‐19 pandemic disproportionately impacts the Black community, along with ongoing anti‐Black racism and violence. Violence against women in the home, particularly Black women, was prevalent during shelter in place, along with the additional family responsibilities of Black mothers. Crenshaw's theory of intersectionality (1991) provides a foundation for examining Black mothers’ experiences during shelter‐in‐place mandates. This mixed‐methods study aimed to quantitatively assess violence victimization, acknowledged racial inequities, depression and anxiety, while qualitatively examining Black mothers’ experiences in parenting during shelter‐in‐place orders. Participants (N= 127; Mage= 32.4 years) were mothers who self‐identify as Black or African American living in a Midwestern US city. Results showed that Black mothers who perceived greater COVID‐19 inequities in the Black community reported increased parental stress, decreased emotional support, greater exposure to physical or sexual violence, and higher symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Qualitative results yielded numerous themes, including the integrative theme oftwo sides of the same coin, highlighting both positive parenting experiences and significant stressors for Black mothers. The implications point to the need for intersectional and feminist approaches to interventions and initiatives that support Black women as humans, mothers, souls, and spirits.
Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type delta (PTPRD) gene in an animal model of restless legs syndrome
Authors: Morais Milca Abda , Franco Beatriz Silva , Holanda Alessandro Spencer Souza , de Paula Simino Laís Angélica , Veras Alana Carolina Costa , Torsoni Marcio Alberto , Manconi Mauro , Torsoni Adriana Souza , Esteves Andrea Maculano
Published: September 2022

The pathophysiology of the restless legs syndrome (RLS) is related to dopaminergic dysfunction, reduced iron and variations in gene expression, such as the protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type delta gene (PTPRD). Animal models could be key to achieving a mechanistic understanding of RLS and to facilitate efficient platforms for evaluating new therapeutics. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of PTPRD, of genes and proteins associated with RLS, the sleep patterns and the cardiovascular parameters in an animal model of RLS (spontaneously hypertensive rat [SHR]). Rats were divided into two groups: (i) Wistar‐Kyoto and (ii) SHR. Cardiovascular parameters were assessed by tail plethysmography. Polysomnography was used to analyse the sleep pattern (24 h). For the PTPRD analyses, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques were used. To evaluate the tyrosine hydroxylase enzyme, dopamine transporter (DAT) and type 2 dopaminergic receptor, qPCR and Western Blotting techniques were used. For the quantification of iron, ferritin and transferrin, the ELISA method was used. SHRs had higher blood pressure, alterations in sleep pattern, lower expression of protein content of PTPRD, lower expression of DAT, and lower serum concentrations of ferritin. These data suggest that the behavioural, physiological, and molecular changes observed in SHRs provide a useful animal model of RLS, reinforcing the importance of this strain as an animal model of this sleep disorder.
Routine screening of emergency admissions at risk of chronic hepatitis (SEARCH) identifies and links hepatitis B cases to care
Authors: Jacob Rachael , Prince David S. , Pipicella Joseph L. , Nguyen Angela , Bagatella Melissa , Alvaro Frank , Maley Michael , Foo Hong , Middleton Paul , Kayes Tahrima , DiGirolamo Julia , Davison Scott A. , Levy Miriam T.
Published: September 2022

Background and Aims

Significant barriers exist with hepatitis B (HBV) case detection and effective linkage to care (LTC). The emergency department (ED) is a unique healthcare interaction where hepatitis screening and LTC could be achieved. We examined the efficacy and utility of automated ED HBV screening for Overseas Born (OB) patients.

Methods

A novel‐automated hepatitis screening service “SEARCH” (Screening Emergency Admissions at Risk of Chronic Hepatitis) was piloted at a metropolitan hospital. A retrospective and comparative analysis of hepatitis testing during the SEARCH pilot compared to a period of routine testing was conducted.

Results

During the SEARCH pilot, 4778 OB patients were tested for HBV (86% of eligible patient presentations), compared with 1.9% of eligible patients during a control period of clinician‐initiated testing. SEARCH detected 108 (2.3%) hepatitis B surface antigen positive patients including 20 (19%) in whom the diagnosis was new. Among 88 patients with known HBV, 57% were receiving medical care, 33% had become lost to follow‐up and 10% had never received HBV care. Overall, 30/88 (34%) patients with known HBV were receiving complete guideline‐based care prior to re‐engagement via SEARCH. Following SEARCH, LTC was successful achieved in 48/58 (83%) unlinked patients and 19 patients were commenced on anti‐viral therapy. New diagnoses of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma were made in five and one patient(s) respectively.

Conclusions

Automated ED screening of OB patients is effective in HBV diagnosis, re‐diagnosis and LTC. Prior to SEARCH, the majority of patients were not receiving guideline‐based care.
Weaponizing Interdependence in the Middle East
Authors: Ahram Ariel I.
Published: September 2022

Global interdependence was supposed to herald a new age of peaceful cooperation. America's global leadership in many ways derives from its ability to maintain, augment, and protect mutually advantageous interactions. Yet the United States has also tried to use its dominance in networks of finance, trade, and communications as a tool of coercion. No region has been more affected by such weaponized interdependence (WI) than the Middle East. But WI, enacted through various forms of direct and indirect sanctions and embargoes, has a spotty record of success. WI is typically coupled with military force and usually targeted against isolated and weak opponents. WI has contributed to several of the region's gravest humanitarian crises, including Iraq in the 1990s and Yemen since 2014. This has cost the United States support from regional states and from the proverbial “street.” Moreover, targets often find ways to upgrade and deepen their repression as they adapt to network restrictions. The United States must be prudent in selecting targets for WI sanctions, broader in recruiting allies for its WI campaigns, and transparent about the humanitarian costs that WI imposes.
‘Nineteenth‐Century’ Subdominants
Authors: SCHMALFELDT JANET
Published: September 2022

The harmonic dualist notion of two commensurate ‘systems’ – authentic and plagal – proposed by Daniel Harrison in 1994 has not been widely accepted, but it enabled him to uncover strong plagal elements in the music of late nineteenth‐century European composers, and it gives much heft to the generally accepted view that the subdominant acquired greater autonomy in music of the fin de siècle. If we allow for the idea that the subdominant and the dominant play dual, though emphatically unequal, roles in tonal music, then it might follow that the subdominant in ascendency suggests the dominant in decline. Are there signs within Austro‐German music of the earlier nineteenth century that the subdominant had begun to assume this more ascendant status? I answer in the affirmative, with examples from the music of Ludwig van Beethoven, Franz Schubert, Fanny Hensel, Robert Schumann, Felix Mendelssohn, Richard Wagner and the young Johannes Brahms. Instances of the affective character of the subdominant in this music run the gamut from associations with the pastoral, with the world of night and dreams and magic, to implications of the ecstatic and, finally, to the expression of deepest grief.
Analyzing the impact of autotrophic and heterotrophic metabolism on the nutrient regulation of TOR
Authors: Mallén‐Ponce Manuel J. , Pérez‐Pérez María Esther , Crespo José L.
Published: September 2022

The target of rapamycin (TOR) protein kinase is a master regulator of cell growth in all eukaryotes, from unicellular yeast and algae to multicellular animals and plants. Target of rapamycin balances the synthesis and degradation of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids in response to nutrients, growth factors and cellular energy to promote cell growth. Among nutrients, amino acids (AAs) and glucose are central regulators of TOR activity in evolutionary distant eukaryotes such as mammals, plants and algae. However, these organisms obtain the nutrients through totally different metabolic processes. Although photosynthetic eukaryotes can use atmospheric CO2 as the sole carbon (C) source for all reactions in the cell, heterotrophic organisms get nutrients from other sources of organic C including glucose. Here, we discuss the impact of autotrophic and heterotrophic metabolism on the nutrient regulation of TOR, focusing on the role of AAs and C sources upstream of this signaling pathway.
What will happen when we become immortal?
Authors: Totschnig Wolfhart
Published: September 2022

Many researchers are working toward the goal of finding a treatment that halts or even reverses the aging process of the human body, a treatment that would make the recipient potentially immortal. The hope that they will succeed in the relatively near future is gaining ground among academics and laypeople alike. What will happen if this hope becomes reality? Specifically, how will our political and social institutions and practices be affected by that discovery? These are the questions raised in the present paper. Concretely, I will discuss three political and social problems that the invention of an immortality treatment is likely to provoke, namely the struggle for access to that treatment, the threat of overpopulation, and the friction between potentially immortal individuals.
Peripheral blood CD4+ T cell count predicts recurrence of condyloma acuminatum after photodynamic therapy in HIV‐positive patients
Authors: Gu Li , Zhou Shu , Shi Zhinan , Zhai Xiaoyu , Gu Liqun , Zhou Bingrong , Hua Hui
Published: September 2022

Background

Few studies have reported postoperative relapse of condyloma acuminatum (CA) after 5‐aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (ALA‐PDT) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients.

Methods

The clinical data of HIV‐positive CA patients treated with ALA‐PDT from October 2018 to December 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression was used to analyze the variables related to postoperative recurrence. Pearson correlation test was employed to analyze the correlation between CD4+ T cell count and postoperative recurrence rate. Kaplan–Meier method was used to compare the CA recurrence after ALA‐PDT in low CD4 group and high CD4 group.

Results

A total of 38 HIV‐positive patients with CA were included in the study. Among them, 26 patients experienced CA recurrence within 6 months, and the recurrence rate was 68.4%. CD4+ T cell count was 187.0 (79.0–596.0) cells/μl in relapsed patients and 406.0 (89.0–612.0) cells/μl in non‐relapsed patients, showing a statistically significant difference (p = .005). Pearson correlation coefficient analysis revealed a negative correlation between CD4+ T cell count and postoperative recurrence rate (p = .005, r = −.443). Univariate regression analysis showed that CD4+ T cell count was correlated with postoperative recurrence, hazard ratio (HR) was 0.99 [95% Confidence interval (CI) = 0.99–1.0, p = .012]. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that with the low CD4+ T cell count as the reference, the high CD4+ T cell count was negatively correlated with postoperative recurrence (HR = 0.09, 95% CI 0.01–0.87, p = .038).

Conclusions

Peripheral blood CD4+ T cell count can predict the CA recurrence rate after ALA‐PDT in HIV‐positive patients.
Evolutionary relationship analysis of STARD gene family and VvSTARD5 improves tolerance of salt stress in transgenic tomatoes
Authors: Lu Shixiong , He Honghong , Wang Ping , Gou Huiming , Cao Xuejing , Ma Zonghuan , Chen Baihong , Mao Juan
Published: September 2022

The steroidogenic acute regulatory protein‐related lipid transfer domain (STARD) forms a protein that can bind membrane‐derived phospholipid second messengers and plasma membranes. Although it has been reported in many plants, the evolutionary relationship of the STARD gene family has not been systematically analyzed, and functions of the HD‐START and HD‐START‐MEKHLA domain subgroup genes under hormone and abiotic stress are also unclear in grapes. This study identified and analyzed 23 VvSTARD genes, which were distinctly divided into five subgroups according to five conserved domain types. The analyses of codon preference, selective pressure, and synteny relationship revealed that grape had higher homology with Arabidopsis compared with rice. Interestingly, the expression levels of VvSTARD genes in subgroups 1, 2, and 3 exhibited significant upregulation under NaCl treatment at 24 h, but VvSTARD genes in subgroups 4 and 5 were upregulated under methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment at 24 h. The subcellular localization showed that VvSTARD5 was localized in the nucleus. Additionally, under NaCl treatment at 24 h, there were an obvious decrease in the relative electrical leakages and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), while the relative expression level of VvSTARD5 and content of proline were obviously enhanced in three transgenic lines. Therefore, the overexpression of VvSTARD5 greatly increased the salt tolerance of transgenic tomatoes. Collectively, this study preliminarily explores the comprehensive function of the STARD gene family in grapes and verifies the function of VvSTARD5 in response to salt.
The novel HLA‐B*35:563 allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zheng Zhong‐zheng , Du Ke‐ming , An Lin , Liu Bei
Published: September 2022

HLA‐B*35:563 differs from HLA‐B*35:03:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 4.
The novel HLA‐B*55:130 allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Yu Jing‐Xing , Zheng Zhong‐Zheng , Du Ke‐Ming , An Lin , Bi Hui
Published: September 2022

HLA‐B*55:130 differs from HLA‐B*55:35 by two nucleotides in exon 2.
A seed‐like proteome in oil‐rich tubers
Authors: Niemeyer Philipp William , Irisarri Iker , Scholz Patricia , Schmitt Kerstin , Valerius Oliver , Braus Gerhard H. , Herrfurth Cornelia , Feussner Ivo , Sharma Shrikant , Carlsson Anders S. , de Vries Jan , Hofvander Per , Ischebeck Till
Published: September 2022

There are numerous examples of plant organs or developmental stages that are desiccation‐tolerant and can withstand extended periods of severe water loss. One prime example are seeds and pollen of many spermatophytes. However, in some plants, also vegetative organs can be desiccation‐tolerant. One example are the tubers of yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus), which also store large amounts of lipids similar to seeds. Interestingly, the closest known relative, purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus), generates tubers that do not accumulate oil and are not desiccation‐tolerant. We generated nanoLC‐MS/MS‐based proteomes of yellow nutsedge in five replicates of four stages of tuber development and compared them to the proteomes of roots and leaves, yielding 2257 distinct protein groups. Our data reveal a striking upregulation of hallmark proteins of seeds in the tubers. A deeper comparison to the tuber proteome of the close relative purple nutsedge (C. rotundus) and a previously published proteome of Arabidopsis seeds and seedlings indicates that indeed a seed‐like proteome was found in yellow but not purple nutsedge. This was further supported by an analysis of the proteome of a lipid droplet‐enriched fraction of yellow nutsedge, which also displayed seed‐like characteristics. One reason for the differences between the two nutsedge species might be the expression of certain transcription factors homologous to ABSCISIC ACID INSENSITIVE3, WRINKLED1, and LEAFY COTYLEDON1 that drive gene expression in Arabidopsis seed embryos.
Integration of physiologically relevant photosynthetic energy flows into whole genome models of light‐driven metabolism
Authors: Broddrick Jared T. , Ware Maxwell A. , Jallet Denis , Palsson Bernhard O. , Peers Graham
Published: September 2022

Characterizing photosynthetic productivity is necessary to understand the ecological contributions and biotechnology potential of plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. Light capture efficiency and photophysiology have long been characterized by measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence dynamics. However, these investigations typically do not consider the metabolic network downstream of light harvesting. By contrast, genome‐scale metabolic models capture species‐specific metabolic capabilities but have yet to incorporate the rapid regulation of the light harvesting apparatus. Here, we combine chlorophyll fluorescence parameters defining photosynthetic and non‐photosynthetic yield of absorbed light energy with a metabolic model of the pennate diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. This integration increases the model predictive accuracy regarding growth rate, intracellular oxygen production and consumption, and metabolic pathway usage. Through the quantification of excess electron transport, we uncover the sequential activation of non‐radiative energy dissipation processes, cross‐compartment electron shuttling, and non‐photochemical quenching as the rapid photoacclimation strategy in P. tricornutum. Interestingly, the photon absorption thresholds that trigger the transition between these mechanisms were consistent at low and high incident photon fluxes. We use this understanding to explore engineering strategies for rerouting cellular resources and excess light energy towards bioproducts in silico. Overall, we present a methodology for incorporating a common, informative data type into computational models of light‐driven metabolism and show its utilization within the design–build–test–learn cycle for engineering of photosynthetic organisms.
A conscious minimally invasive approach to remove follicular cysts and infundibular keratinizing acanthomas in five dogs
Authors: Loek Rachael , Gardiner David , Laporte Carine
Published: September 2022

Follicular cysts and infundibular keratinizing acanthomas are common benign cutaneous lesions in dogs. Current treatment options include surgical excision under general anaesthesia, cryotherapy, carbon dioxide laser and retinoids, each with potential disadvantages. We describe a conscious, minimally invasive, surgical excision procedure with high success rate and no complications in five dogs.
A Review of the Anthropogenic Global Warming Consensus: An Econometric Forecast Based on the ARIMA Model of Paleoclimate Series
Authors: Santos Gilmar Veriato Fluzer , Cordeiro Lucas Gamalel , Rojo Claudio Antonio , Leismann Edison Luiz
Published: September 2022

This paper projects a climate change scenario using a stochastic paleotemperature time series model and compares it to the prevailing consensus using Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Process Model (ARIMA). The parameter estimates of the model were below that established by the anthropogenic experts and governmental organs, such as the IPCC (UN) over a 100-year scenario. Results from the ARIMA model suggest a current period of temperature reduction and a probable cooling. The results from this study add a statistical element of paleoclimate to the debate that contradicts the current scientific consensus.
Revisión sistemática de estudios empíricos en el liderazgo electrónico
Authors: Jiménez Carranza Claudia Constanza , Aguilar Bustamante María Constanza , Peiró José María
Published: September 2022

El objetivo de la presente investigación es realizar una revisión sistemática de los estudios empíricos organizacionales cuya temática central fuera el liderazgo electrónico. Para esto, la revisión siguió los lineamientos y recomendaciones de PROSPERO. Las bases de datos consultadas fueron Scopus, Dimensions, Science Direct, Ebsco Host, Web of Science y Proquest. En total, se revisaron 21 estudios empíricos, en español y en inglés, publicados entre los años 2012 al 2021, que cumplían con los criterios de selección. La mayoría de los estudios sugieren que se realicen investigaciones empíricas en diferentes países y en organizaciones en sectores económicos variados; además el liderazgo electrónico es una opción para aquellos que requieren contar con talentos que por su ubicación geográfica están dispersos y afianzar alianzas inter-organizativas fomentando la creación de equipos virtuales y alcanzar un mayor desempeño laboral y por consiguiente de la organización. Al final se discuten sus implicaciones y limitaciones.
Modal Analysis for Localization of Harmonic Oscillations in Nonlinear Oscillator Arrays
Authors: Harata Yuji , Ikeda Takashi
Published: September 2022

When a nonlinear oscillator array is harmonically excited, specific oscillators in the array may oscillate with large amplitudes. This is known as the localization phenomenon; however, the reason for localization has not been clarified thus far. Thus, the aim of this study is to elucidate the reason for localization in nonlinear oscillator arrays. We theoretically investigated the behavior of a nonlinear oscillator array, which consists of N Duffing oscillators connected by linear springs under external and harmonic forces. The equations of motion in physical coordinates are transformed into modal equations of motion, which reveal that the array forms an autoparametric system in the modal coordinates when it consists of identical oscillators. The first mode of vibration is directly excited by the external force, whereas the remaining modes are indirectly excited by the nonlinear terms coupled with the first mode. The approximate solutions of the harmonic oscillations were obtained using van der Pol's method. The frequency response curves (FRCs) for both the physical and modal coordinates for N = 2 and 3 are presented. Localization can occur when multiple modes are excited simultaneously. Furthermore, the effects of imperfections in the restoring forces on the responses of the two-Duffing-oscillator array are examined.
Endogenous DOPA inhibits melanoma through suppression of CHRM1 signaling
Authors: Doepner Miriam , Lee Inyoung , Natale Christopher A. , Brathwaite Roderick , Venkat Swati , Kim Sung Hoon , Wei Yiliang , Vakoc Christopher R. , Capell Brian C. , Katzenellenbogen John A. , Katzenellenbogen Benita S. , Feigin Michael E. , Ridky Todd W.
Published: September 2022

Melanoma risk is 30 times higher in people with lightly pigmented skin versus darkly pigmented skin. Using primary human melanocytes representing the full human skin pigment continuum and preclinical melanoma models, we show that cell-intrinsic differences between dark and light melanocytes regulate melanocyte proliferative capacity and susceptibility to malignant transformation, independent of melanin and ultraviolet exposure. These differences result from dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA), a melanin precursor synthesized at higher levels in melanocytes from darkly pigmented skin. We used both high-throughput pharmacologic and genetic in vivo CRISPR screens to determine that DOPA limits melanocyte and melanoma cell proliferation by inhibiting the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M
1
(CHRM1) signaling. Pharmacologic CHRM1 antagonism in melanoma leads to depletion of c-Myc and FOXM1, both of which are proliferation drivers associated with aggressive melanoma. In preclinical mouse melanoma models, pharmacologic inhibition of CHRM1 or FOXM1 inhibited tumor growth. CHRM1 and FOXM1 may be new therapeutic targets for melanoma.