bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A benchmark case study for seismic event relative location
Authors: Gibbons S J , Kværna T , Tiira T , Kozlovskaya E
Published: July 2020

‘Precision seismology’ encompasses a set of methods which use differential measurements of time-delays to estimate the relative locations of earthquakes and explosions. Delay-times estimated from signal correlations often allow far more accurate estimates of one event location relative to another than is possible using classical hypocentre determination techniques. Many different algorithms and software implementations have been developed and different assumptions and procedures can often result in significant variability between different relative event location estimates. We present a Ground Truth (GT) dataset of 55 military surface explosions in northern Finland in 2007 that all took place within 300 m of each other. The explosions were recorded with a high signal-to-noise ratio to distances of about 2°, and the exceptional waveform similarity between the signals from the different explosions allows for accurate correlation-based time-delay measurements. With exact coordinates for the explosions, we are able to assess the fidelity of relative location estimates made using any location algorithm or implementation. Applying double-difference calculations using two different 1-D velocity models for the region results in hypocentre-to-hypocentre distances which are too short and it is clear that the wavefield leaving the source region is more complicated than predicted by the models. Using the GT event coordinates, we are able to measure the slowness vectors associated with each outgoing ray from the source region. We demonstrate that, had such corrections been available, a significant improvement in the relative location estimates would have resulted. In practice we would of course need to solve for event hypocentres and slowness corrections simultaneously, and significant work will be needed to upgrade relative location algorithms to accommodate uncertainty in the form of the outgoing wavefield. We present this data set, together with GT coordinates, raw waveforms for all events on six regional stations, and tables of time-delay measurements, as a reference benchmark by which relative location algorithms and software can be evaluated.
Newly emerged immunogenic neoantigens in established tumors enable hosts to regain immunosurveillance in a T-cell-dependent manner
Authors: Muramatsu Tomoaki , Noguchi Takuro , Sugiyama Daisuke , Kanada Yoshie , Fujimaki Kaori , Ito Sachiko , Gotoh Momokazu , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi
Published: July 2020

Tumor neoantigens derived from genetic alterations are potential T-cell targets for antitumor immunity. However, tumors develop immune escape mechanisms including loss of preexisting neoantigens and/or impairment of T-cell responses during tumor development and progression. Here, we addressed whether newly emerged immunogenic neoantigens in established tumors enabled hosts to inhibit tumor growth via controlling immune escape mechanisms. Using a doxycycline-driven gene expression system, we generated murine MC38, CT26 (colorectal cancer) and B16 (melanoma) cell lines with inducible expression of model immunogenic neoantigens such as chicken ovalbumin and human NY-ESO-1. A model neoantigen was induced by doxycycline administration in the tumors once tumors became palpable. Tumor growth was significantly inhibited upon induction of the neoantigen and this inhibition was abrogated in nude mice lacking T cells and in mice deprived of CD8+ T cells, indicating the critical role of CD8+ T cells in tumor regression. In addition, PD-1/PD-L1 blockade further augmented the antitumor immune response, resulting in a far stronger inhibition of tumor growth. Accordingly, newly emerged tumor neoantigen-specific CD8+ T cells with enhanced effector functions were significantly increased in mice treated with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. We propose that a newly emerged neoantigen is sufficient to inhibit tumor growth via preventing immune escape in a T-cell-dependent manner. Our results imply that induction of immunogenic tumor neoantigens is a novel strategy to overcome the resistance to immune checkpoint blockade therapy.
Nosema ceranae (Microspora: Nosematidae): A Sweet Surprise? Investigating the Viability and Infectivity of N. ceranae Spores Maintained in Honey and on Beeswax
Authors: MacInnis Courtney I , Keddie B Andrew , Pernal Stephen F
Published: July 2020

Nosema disease is a prominent malady among adult honey bees [Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae)], caused by the microsporidian parasites, Nosema apis Zander (Microspora: Nosematidae) and N. ceranae Fries et al. 1996. The biology of N. apis is well understood, as this parasite was first described over a century ago. As N. ceranae is an emerging parasite of the honey bee, we do not yet understand how long spores of this parasite survive in honey bee colonies, or all the potential modes of transmission among bees. We investigated the viability and infectivity of N. ceranae spores in honey and on beeswax over time after exposure to 33, 20, −12, and −20°C. Spores in honey maintained viability at freezing temperatures for up to 1 yr and remained viable considerably longer than those on beeswax. Based on this evidence, honey may act as an important reservoir for infective spores to initiate or perpetuate N. ceranae infections in honey bee colonies. This work provides information that may help enhance current management recommendations for apiculturalists.
Improving Provider Resilience by Reestablishing Connection: Moving From Self-Awareness to Seeing-Awareness
Authors: Linde Sarah
Published: July 2020

Today’s healthcare environment is predictably unpredictable and increasingly complex, thus challenging the intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual limits in all of us, and resulting in real consequences such as provider turnover, burnout, shortages, and poor patient health outcomes. Strengthening our resilience results in part from reclaiming hold on our most powerful gift, the ability to choose how we see things. Identifying and shifting our mindset, and especially to an outward mindset in which we clearly see and connect with others around us, will restore the healing in healthcare.
Genome Sequence Resource of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ from Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) in Colombia
Authors: Wang Yanjing , Kondo Takumasa , He Yurong , Zhou Zhuohuai , Lu Jinming
Published: July 2020

‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas) is an unculturable phloem-restricted α-proteobacterium associated with huanglongbing (HLB). Here, we provide the genome sequence of CLas strain CoFLP1 from its insect vector Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae) collected in the department of La Guajira, Colombia. The CoFLP1 strain is composed of 1,231,639 bp with G+C 36.5% content. This study reports the first CLas genome sequence from Colombia, which will add to CLas genome resources and help to elucidate our understanding of the introduction pathway of HLB in South America.
Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Meloidogyne graminicola in Soil Using Conventional PCR, Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification, and Real-Time PCR Methods
Authors: He Qingcong , Wang Dongwei , Tang Bei , Wang Jian , Zhang Deyong , Liu Yong , Cheng Feixue
Published: July 2020

Meloidogyne graminicola is one of the major plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) that affect rice agriculture. Rapid identification and quantification of M. graminicola in soil is crucial for early diagnosis so that measures can be taken to reduce the impact of PPN diseases and ensure food security. In this study, M. graminicola species-specific primers for conventional PCR, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and real-time PCR were designed based on the sequence-characterized amplified region. The primers were highly specific and sensitive, and only samples containing M. graminicola DNA showed positive results. The sensitivity of LAMP and real-time PCR (two second-stage juvenile [J2] M. graminicola in 100 g of soil) was higher than that of conventional PCR (200 J2s in 100 g of soil). A standard curve (correlation coefficient R2 = 0.970, P < 0.001) was generated by amplifying DNA extracted from 0.5 g of soil, and a significant correlation was observed between the number of M. graminicola determined by microscopic examination and that predicted from the standard curve (R2 = 0.477, P = 0.0160). In quantification analyses of M. graminicola isolated from 31 naturally infested soils, the sensitivity of LAMP and real-time PCR (22 M. graminicola in 100 g of soil) was higher than that of conventional PCR (211 M. graminicola in 100 g of soil). The conventional PCR, LAMP, and real-time PCR methods have the potential to provide a useful platform for rapid species identification according to the experimental conditions. The real-time PCR assay and standard curve can be used for quantification of M. graminicola. These newly developed assays will help to facilitate the control of these economically important PPNs.
Quantification of Colletotrichum fioriniae in Orchards and Deciduous Forests Indicates It Is Primarily a Leaf Endophyte
Authors: Martin Phillip L. , Peter Kari A.
Published: July 2020

Colletotrichum fioriniae of the C. acutatum species complex is an important hemibiotrophic pathogen of vegetables and fruits in temperate regions worldwide. In apple, it is one of the primary species responsible for bitter rot disease. Understanding the disease cycle is complicated because many broadleaf plants can be hosts of C. fioriniae. By detecting and quantifying rain-splashed C. acutatum species complex conidia in more than 500 samples from heavily bitter-rot-infected apple orchards and nearby forested woodlots over two summers, we show that conidial quantities were higher in the woodlots than in the orchards. Testing of more than 1,000 surface-disinfected leaves of apple and 24 different forest plant species showed that overall C. fioriniae was an abundant leaf endophyte, with high variation in leaf colonization area. Endophytic isolates from leaves were pathogenic on apples, and multilocus sequence analysis showed 100% identity between most isolates from leaves and diseased fruits. Apple leaves endophytically infected with C. fioriniae were present in a conventionally managed orchard and abundant in an untreated orchard. These lines of evidence, in the context of previously published research, lead us to hypothesize that the main ecological role of C. fioriniae is that of a leaf endophyte, which we present as a generalized C. fioriniae infection cycle that provides an updated framework for its integrated management in agricultural systems.
Changes in Social Support and Relational Mutuality as Moderators in the Association Between Heart Failure Patient Functioning and Caregiver Burden
Authors: Cooney Teresa M. , Proulx Christine M. , Bekelman David B.
Published: July 2020

Background

Caregivers to patients with heart failure (HF) may experience substantial burden in their roles, yet little is known about factors that exacerbate caregiver burden over time.

Objectives

We test the moderating role of changes in caregivers' social support and patient-caregiver relationship mutuality in the association between HF patient functioning and caregiver burden.

Methods

Data were analyzed using Stata 13.1 for 100 HF primary caregivers, the majority of whom were female (81%), living with the patient (87%), and married or partnered to the patient (70%). Patients reported on dyspnea, disability level, and symptom severity, and caregivers reported on patient-caregiver mutuality, social support, and perceived caregiver burden at both baseline and a 12-month follow-up.

Results

Regression analyses using the Structural Equation Modeling framework revealed that declines in caregiver-patient mutuality over the 12 months of the study amplified the association between patient functioning (ie, dyspnea, symptom severity, and disability) and caregiver burden. Change in social support did not significantly moderate the association between any of the patient functioning variables and caregiver burden.

Conclusions

Caregivers' relationships with their care recipient shape how they respond to and interpret the demands of caregiving, and relationships experiencing negative changes over time contribute to caregiver burden. Promoting and sustaining positive social relationships within the caregiver-patient dyad is thus a promising avenue for interventions aimed at reducing the burden experienced by caregivers to patients with HF.
Frailty Syndrome: A Risk Factor Associated With Violence in Older Adults
Authors: dos Santos Renata Clemente , Menezes Rejane Maria de Paiva , Souto Rafaella Queiroga , de Araújo Gleicy Karine Nascimento , Marcolino Emanuella de Castro , Soares Maria Cidney da Silva , Almeida Jank Landy Simôa
Published: July 2020

Objective

The objective of this study was to analyze the association between frailty syndrome as a risk factor associated with violence in older adults.

Method

A cross-sectional study, carried out with older adults, in an emergency care unit of a northeastern Brazilian city was conducted. Three instruments were used: a form for sample characterization (i.e., demographics) and two more scales, namely, the Edmonton Frail Scale and the Hwalek–Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test. The results were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics, using chi-square or Fisher's exact tests, Spearman's correlation test, and simple logistic regression.

Results

The sample included 146 older adults who were over 70 years old (56.6%), male (56.2%), and at risk of violence (69.86%). Among the categorical variables, there was an association between risk and being of a higher age (80.7%, p < 0.001), unemployed (73.7%, p < 0.05), having more than six children (80.8%, p < 0.05), and frail older adults (88.1%, p < 0.001). There was a correlation (p < 0.05) between the numerical variables of the scales of violence and frailty, with a coefficient of 0.40. The simple logistic regression model showed that frailty syndrome increases the risk of violence among older adults.

Conclusions

It was concluded that frailty is a factor that increases the occurrence of risk of violence and provides information to guide nursing action in the field of forensic sciences.
Prospective Analysis of a Novel Endobronchial Augmented Fluoroscopic Navigation System for Diagnosis of Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions
Authors: Pritchett Michael A.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Navigational bronchoscopy has improved upon traditional bronchoscopy to identify suspicious pulmonary lesions, but wide variability exists in the diagnostic yield of various modalities. The aim of this study was to measure localization accuracy and diagnostic yield of a novel endobronchial augmented fluoroscopic navigation system (first-generation LungVision system) for peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs).

Methods:

This prospective single-center study included adults undergoing guided bronchoscopy to evaluate PPLs. Preprocedure computed tomography (CT) images were obtained, and planning software calculated a pathway to the lesion. A flexible bronchoscope was used to navigate along the pathway overlaid on the intraprocedural fluoroscopic image. When real-time display indicated the catheter tip had reached the lesion, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to measure the actual location of the tip. Biopsy and rapid on-site cytopathologic evaluation were performed.

Results:

Fifty-one patients were included in the analysis. The median lesion diameter was 18.0 mm (range: 7.0 to 48.0 mm). Localization success was 96.1%. The average distance between lesion location as shown by LungVision augmented fluoroscopy and actual location measured by CBCT was 5.9 mm (range: 2.1 to 10.0 mm). Diagnostic yield at the index procedure was 78.4%. Diagnostic accuracy assessed at 12 months follow-up was 88.2%. Average CT-to-body divergence was 14.5 mm (range: 2.6 to 33.0 mm) from preprocedure CT to intraprocedural CBCT images.

Conclusion:

Augmented fluoroscopy for navigation and biopsy of PPLs with the LungVision system showed a high localization success rate and corresponding high diagnostic yield. Navigation and biopsy with real-time visualization can improve diagnostic yield for PPLs.
Vulnerabilities for Drug Diversion in the Handling, Data Entry, and Verification Tasks of 2 Inpatient Hospital Pharmacies: Clinical Observations and Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis
Authors: de Vries Maaike , Fan Mark , Tscheng Dorothy , Hamilton Michael , Trbovich Patricia
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Inpatient hospital pharmacies have a central role in managing controlled substances (CS) throughout the hospital medication use process (MUP). Our objectives were to identify vulnerabilities for diversion in the MUPs of 2 inpatient pharmacies, explore differences between the sites, and characterize the types of vulnerabilities identified.

Methods

We conducted clinical observations in 2 pharmacies to map their MUPs and performed a healthcare failure mode and effect analysis to proactively identify (1) the critical failure modes (CFMs) that make them vulnerable to diversion and (2) the controls that prevent, mitigate, or enhance the detectability of CFMs.

Results

We conducted 99 hours of observations between May–June and September–October 2018. We observed 36 pharmacy technicians, 4 pharmacists, and 1 clerk as they conducted tasks involving 4 processes common to both sites: procuring CS, receiving CS deliveries to the pharmacy, unit-dose packaging CS oral solids, and distributing CS to hospital units. The tasks and subtasks we mapped in the process flow diagrams led to the identification of 220 failure modes. Of these, 34 were deemed CFMs and were categorized as related to handling CS, data entry, or verification tasks. Three of the CFMs were unique to one site, given that the other site had a control for the CFM.

Conclusions

Multiple vulnerabilities for diversion exist in inpatient pharmacy processes. Our results provide some much needed detail about how specific vulnerabilities in MUP tasks and subtasks lead to an increased risk of diversion.
Physical Distancing Due to COVID-19 Disrupts Sexual Behaviors Among Gay and Bisexual Men in Australia: Implications for Trends in HIV and Other Sexually Transmissible Infections
Authors: Hammoud Mohamed A. , Maher Lisa , Holt Martin , Degenhardt Louisa , Jin Fengyi , Murphy Dean , Bavinton Benjamin , Grulich Andrew , Lea Toby , Haire Bridget , Bourne Adam , Saxton Peter , Vaccher Stefanie , Ellard Jeanne , Mackie Brent , Batrouney Colin , Bath Nicky , Prestage Garrett
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

In March 2020, Australian state and federal governments introduced physical distancing measures alongside widespread testing to combat COVID-19. These measures may decrease people's sexual contacts and thus reduce the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs). We investigated the impact of physical distancing measures due to COVID-19 on the sexual behavior of gay and bisexual men in Australia.

Methods:

Between April 4, 2020, and April 29, 2020, 940 participants in an ongoing cohort study responded to questions to measure changes in sexual behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Men reported the date they become concerned about COVID-19 and whether they engaged in sexual behavior with regular or casual partners or “fuckbuddies” in the 6 months before becoming concerned about COVID-19 (hereafter referred to as “before COVID-19”), and following the date, they become concerned about COVID-19 (hereafter referred to as “since COVID-19”). Before and since COVID-19 was based on individual participants' own perceived date of becoming concerned about COVID-19.

Results:

The mean age of was 39.9 years (SD: 13.4). Most participants (88.3%) reported sex with other men during the 6 months before COVID-19. Of the 587 men (62.4%) who reported sex with casual partners before COVID-19, 93 (15.8%) continued to do so in the period since COVID-19, representing a relative reduction of 84.2%.

Conclusion:

Gay and bisexual men in Australia have dramatically reduced their sexual contacts with other men since COVID-19. These behavioral changes will likely result in short-term reductions in new HIV and STI diagnoses. If sexual health screenings are undertaken before resuming sexual activity, this could present a novel opportunity to interrupt chains of HIV and STI transmission.
Alar Base Augmentation Using Vomerine Bone Graft in Patients With Cleft Lip Nasal Deformity
Authors: Elfeki Bassem , Elhussiny Khater Amr Mohamed , Bahaa El-Din Ahmed Mohamed , Shouman Omar Ossama , Baek Rong-Min , Kim Baek-Kyu
Published: July 2020

Background

Although many trials have been made to augment the unilateral alar base depression, the ultimate aesthetic satisfaction has proven difficult to achieve. In our study, we present a novel submucosal dissection technique to harvest the vomer bone and use it as an onlay graft to correct the alar base depression.

Methods

We collected a prospective cohort study of 11 patients with unilateral cleft lip nasal deformity. Using CorelDRAW X7 software, we obtained perioperative clinical photographs to analyze the nostril and lateral lip morphometric measurements on the cleft side. Computed tomography scans were used to assess the required graft's volume and to detect resorption. We performed vomerine ostectomy and placed and fixed the bone graft in with a lag screw over the alar base depression.

Results

The nostril width showed a significant increase, in addition to the height/width ratio. The columellar angle with the lateral lip height increased remarkably, with a general improvement in the nasal tip aesthetics.

Conclusions

The vomer bone graft has been shown to correct the lateral and inferior disorientation of the alar base and improve the nostril and nasal tip aesthetic measurements. The vomer bone is therefore a sufficient bone source for grafting with high viability and no resorption.
A Systematic Review of Breast Irrigation in Implant-Based Breast Surgery
Authors: Baker Nusaiba F. , Hart Alexandra M. , Carlson Grant W. , Losken Albert
Published: July 2020

Background

Aesthetic and reconstructive implant-based breast surgeries are some of the most frequently performed procedures by plastic surgeons. As such, prevention of implant infection is of high importance. However, there remains no criterion-standard protocol for irrigation of the breast pocket. This review focuses on current irrigation practices in implant-based breast surgery.

Methods

Four databases were used to search for all studies, including randomized controlled trials, retrospective cohort, and prospective cohort, containing original data related to the outcomes investigated in this study. Search terms included “breast,” “irrigation,” and “infection” in different combinations to isolate studies that focused on irrigation methods in both reconstructive and augmentation surgeries. Our selection criteria specifically concentrated on those studies that explicitly related irrigation procedures to rates of clinical infection and/or capsular contracture. Each was compiled into a table in chronological order to make comparisons between the differing irrigation methods.

Results

Our search returned 239 full-text articles eligible for our review. Two independent screeners identified 9 studies that met the inclusion criteria. This included 1 prospective study and 8 retrospective studies. Two studies reported the use of chlorhexidine gluconate irrigation resulting in protection from clinical infection. Two studies investigated the role of triple antibiotic solution (TAS) either alone or combined with something else on risk of infection, and 3 reported TAS use on rates of capsular contracture. Two additional studies investigated the role of single antibiotic irrigation, concluding that some antibiotic regimen for irrigation may be sufficient in the breast pocket. Interestingly, one study noted the potential use of povidone-iodine (Betadine) as a method of irrigation.

Conclusions

These data suggest that chlorhexidine gluconate, Betadine, and TAS irrigation of the breast pocket can provide protection against infection and implant loss in both reconstruction and augmentation surgeries.
Dermatochalasis Through Decades
Authors: Kashkouli Mohsen Bahmani , Karimi Nasser , Johari-Moghadam Mohamad-Mehdi , Shayanfar Nasrin , Aghamirsalim Mohamadreza , Abdolalizadeh Parya
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Three prior studies (2008, 2011, 2018) histopathologically compared the eyelid specimens of patients with dermatochalasis (DC, undergoing blepharoplasty) with a control group and proposed that DC may begin with subclinical inflammation leading to elastolysis and lymphostasis. With growing number of younger patients consulting for blepharoplasty, the unanswered question is whether histopathologic changes of DC differ between the younger and the older.

Patients and Methods

In this prospective case series, 20 right upper eyelid skin of 20 nonsmoker, class 3 Fitzpatrik skin type women (30–68 years old) were histopathologically examined. Patients were divided into 2 age groups of 50 years or older and older than 50 years. Upper eyelid skin was preoperatively marked, intraoperatively removed, postoperatively divided into 3 sections: lateral (lateral limbus to lateral canthus), central (between medial and lateral limbi), and medial (medial limbus to medial canthus), and separately (totally 60 specimens) sent for histopathological examination. A masked pathologist recorded skin thickness in all specimens (60) as well as lymphatic vessels diameter and density, elastic fiber density, macrophage number, collagen intrafibril edema, and depth of collagen stromal bed in central sections (20 specimens).

Results

There were 10 patients at each age group. Histopathological measurements were not significantly different between the 2 age groups except mean lymphatic vessel diameter (P = 0.034) that was larger in the second group (>50 years). A significant positive correlation was also observed between the age and lymphatic vessel diameter (r
s = 0.3, P = 0.009).

Conclusions

Lymphangiectasia progresses significantly by age. Histopathological characteristics of DC are the same in the 2 age groups.
Industry Payments by Allergan, Inc to Plastic Surgery and Related Specialties in 2018
Authors: Isbester Kelsey , Boas Samuel , Summerville Lesley , Wee Corinne , Kumar Anand
Published: July 2020

In 2014, payments to medical providers from drug/device manufacturers were made public through the Open Payments Database. Although previous studies have used the Open Payments Database to describe relationships between specialties and industry, few have evaluated specific companies and the effect of their contributions. As a large contributor to industry payments in plastic surgery, Allergan, Inc represents a significant source of potential financial conflicts of interest in the field. In this study, we aimed to describe the quantity, type, and specific products associated with Allergan's payments to both plastic surgeons and physicians of other specialties. In 2018, Allergan paid a total of $48,484,163 in 397,225 payments to 90,386 physicians. Psychiatry and neurology received $11,867,861 in payments, the largest of any specialty, whereas internal medicine received the largest number of individual payments. Plastic surgeons made the most per physician ($3025). Most payments made to plastic surgeons were categorized as “gifts.” Payments made in relation to Botox were predominantly made to neurologists, whereas most payments attributed to Natrelle breast implants were made to plastic surgeons (74.4%). Surprisingly, 18.2% of Natrelle payments were made to family medicine physicians. Further study is needed to fully understand the implications of the financial contributions revealed in this study.
Rhinoplasty With Hyaluronic Acid
Authors: Chen Bo , Ma Li , Ji Kai , Lu Hui , Hu Xiaogen , Qi Yanwen , Qi Huijie , Gao Zhanwei
Published: July 2020

Objective

To explore the clinical effect of rhinoplasty with a standard 5-step injection procedure of hyaluronic acid using sharp needle in correction of deficient features of the Chinese nose.

Methods

Between January 2016 and December 2018, hyaluronic acid was injected with the sharp needle by a standard procedure in the anterior nasal spine, nasal columella, nasal tip, nasal root, and dorsum, as well as the junction region of nasal root and brow in 198 Chinese patients. The postoperative curative effect was analyzed, and the adverse reactions were observed.

Results

The nasal shape in all patients was significantly improved, obtaining the stereoscopic appearance, and satisfactory results. During a 6-month follow-up, 4 patients developed local subcutaneous congestion and bruising in the nasal dorsum after treatment, which disappeared within 2 weeks. No patients suffered from complications such as infection, embolism, necrosis, transparent nasal dorsum, and widened nasal roots.

Conclusions

Injection of hyaluronic acid with the sharp needle by a standard 5-step procedure is a safe technique that can effectively correct the deficient features of the Chinese nose.
Rectinema subterraneum sp. nov, a chemotrophic spirochaete isolated from the deep terrestrial subsurface
Authors: Momper Lily , Semler Amanda , Lu Guang Sin , Miyazaki Masayuki , Imachi Hiroyuki , Amend Jan P.
Published: July 2020

A novel, obligately anaerobic bacterium (strain SURF-ANA1T) was isolated from deep continental subsurface fluids at a depth of 1500 m below surface in the former Homestake Gold Mine (now Sanford Underground Research Facility, in Lead, South Dakota, USA). Cells of strain SURF-ANA1Twere Gram-negative, helical, non-spore-forming and were 0.25–0.55×5.0–75.0 µm with a wavelength of 0.5–0.62 µm. Strain SURF-ANA1Tgrew at 15–50 °C (optimally at 40 °C), at pH 4.8–9.0 (pH 7.2) and in 1.0–40.0 g l−1NaCl (10 g l−1NaCl). The strain grew chemoheterotrophically with hydrogen or mono-, di- and polysaccharides as electron donors. The major cellular fatty acids in order of decreasing abundance (comprising >5% of total) were 10-methyl C16:0, iso-C15:0, C18:2and C18:0dimethyl acetal (DMA) and C20:0methylene-nonadecanoic acid. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain SURF-ANA1Tindicated a closest relationship with the recently characterizedRectinema cohabitans(99%). Despite high sequence identity, because of its distinct physiology, morphology and fatty acid profile, strain SURF-ANA1Tis considered to represent a novel species within the genusRectinema, for which the nameRectinema subterraneumsp. nov. is proposed. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an isolate within the phylumSpirochaetesfrom the deep (>100 m) terrestrial subsurface. The GenBank/EMBL/DDBJ accession numbers for the 16S rRNA gene and genomic sequences of strain SURF-ANA1Tare KU359248 and GCF 009768935.1, respectively. The type strain ofRectinema subterraneumis SURF-ANA1T(=ATCC TSD-67=JCM 32656).
Determining the period of communicability of SARS-CoV-2: A rapid review of the literature
Authors: Park Mina , Pawliuk Colleen , Nguyen Tribesty , Griffitt Amanda , Dix-Cooper Linda , Fourik Nadia , Dawes Martin
Published: July 2020

Introduction

How long individuals may transmit virus after infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is unclear. Understanding the communicability period of SARS-CoV-2 is important to inform the period of isolation required to prevent nosocomial and community spread. The objective of this study was to identify the reported communicable period of SARS-CoV-2, based on a rapid review of existing literature.

Methods

Studies reporting empirical data on the period of communicability of SARS-CoV-2 through investigations of duration of communicability based on in-person contact (“contact transmission”), isolation and culture of virus (“viral isolation”), and viral shedding by detection of nucleic acids by RT-PCR (“viral shedding”) were identified through searches of peer-reviewed and pre-print health sciences literature databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, medRxiv and arXiv) and the grey literature. Articles were screened for relevance, then data were extracted, analyzed, and synthesized.

Results

Out of the 165 studies included for qualitative analysis, one study investigated contact transmission, three investigated viral isolation, 144 investigated viral shedding, and 17 studies focused on both viral shedding and viral isolation. The median length of time until viral clearance across all viral isolation studies was nine days; however, the maximum identified duration was 32 days. Studies with data on both viral isolation and viral shedding showed a prolonged maximum time until viral clearance for viral shedding (9 days vs 24 days).

Discussion

Findings from this review support a minimum 10-day period of isolation; however, additional observation should be considered for individuals being released into high-risk settings.
Efficacy of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine in treating COVID-19 infection: a meta-review of systematic reviews and an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Chivese Tawanda , Musa Omran A. H. , Hindy George , Al-Wattary Noor , Badran Saif , Soliman Nada , Aboughalia Ahmed T. M. , Matizanadzo Joshua T. , Emara Mohamed M. , Thalib Lukman , Doi Suhail A. R.
Published: July 2020

Objective

To synthesize findings from systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the efficacy and safety of chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) with or without Azithromycin for treating COVID-19, and to update the evidence using a meta-analysis.

Methods

A comprehensive search was carried out in electronic databases for systematic reviews, meta-analyses and experimental studies which investigated the efficacy and safety of CQ, HCQ with or without Azithromycin to treat COVID-19. Findings from the reviews were synthesised using tables and forest plots and the quality effect model was used for the updated meta-analysis. The main outcomes were mortality, the need for intensive care services, disease exacerbation, viral clearance and occurrence of adverse events.

Results

Thirteen reviews with 40 primary studies were included. Two meta-analyses reported a high risk of mortality, with ORs of 2.2 and 3.0, and the two others found no association between HCQ and mortality. Findings from two meta-analyses showed that HCQ with Azithromycin increased the risk of mortality, with similar ORs of 2.5. The updated meta-analysis of experimental studies showed that the drugs were not effective in reducing mortality (RR 1.1, 95%CI 1.0-1.3, I2 =0.0%), need for intensive care services (OR 1.1, 95%CI 0.9-1.4, I2 =0.0%), virological cure (OR 1.5, 95%CI 0.5-4.4, I2 =39.6%) or disease exacerbation (OR 1.2, 95%CI 0.3-5.9, I2 =31.9%) but increased the odds of adverse events (OR 12,3, 95%CI 2.5-59.9, I2 =76.6%).

Conclusion

There is conclusive evidence that CQ and HCQ, with or without Azithromycin are not effective in treating COVID-19 or its exacerbation.

Registration

PROSPERO: CRD42020191353
Developmental PCB exposure disrupts synaptic transmission and connectivity in the rat auditory cortex, independent of its effects on peripheral hearing threshold
Authors: Lee Christopher M. , Sadowski Renee N. , Schantz Susan L. , Llano Daniel A.
Published: July 2020

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are enduring environmental toxicants and exposure is associated with neurodevelopmental deficits. The auditory system appears particularly sensitive, as previous work has shown that developmental PCB exposure causes both hearing loss and gross disruptions in the organization of the rat auditory cortex. However, the mechanisms underlying PCB-induced changes are not known, nor is it known if the central effects of PCBs are a consequence of peripheral hearing loss. Here, we study changes in both peripheral and central auditory function in rats with developmental PCB exposure using a combination of optical and electrophysiological approaches. Female rats were exposed to an environmental PCB mixture in utero and until weaning. At adulthood, auditory brainstem responses were measured, and synaptic currents were recorded in slices from auditory cortex layer 2/3 neurons. Spontaneous and miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) were more frequent in PCB-exposed rats compared to controls and the normal relationship between IPSC parameters and peripheral hearing was eliminated in PCB-exposed rats. No changes in spontaneous EPSCs were found. Conversely, when synaptic currents were evoked by laser photostimulation of caged-glutamate, PCB exposure did not affect evoked inhibitory transmission, but increased the total excitatory charge, the number and distance of sites that evoke a significant response. Together, these findings indicate that early developmental exposure to PCBs causes long-lasting changes in both inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission in the auditory cortex that are independent of peripheral hearing changes, suggesting the effects are due to the direct impact of PCBs on the developing auditory cortex.

Significance Statement

The mechanisms by which developmental exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) disrupt the central nervous system are not yet known. Here we show that developmental PCB exposure is associated with long-lasting dysregulation of both excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in the rodent brain. We further find that, unlike controls, synaptic parameters in the auditory cortex of PCB-exposed rats are independent of peripheral hearing changes. These data suggest that PCB-related changes in the auditory cortex are independent of their effects on the auditory periphery and that PCB exposure may disrupt the plastic mechanisms needed to restore normal processing in the auditory cortex after peripheral hearing loss.
From plants to ants: Fungal modification of leaf lipids for nutrition and communication in the leaf-cutter ant fungal garden ecosystem
Authors: Khadempour Lily , Kyle Jennifer E. , Webb-Robertson Bobbie-Jo M. , Nicora Carrie D. , Smith Francesca B. , Smith Richard D. , Lipton Mary S. , Currie Cameron R. , Baker Erin S. , Burnum-Johnson Kristin E.
Published: July 2020

Lipids are essential to all living organisms, as an energy source, as an important cellular structural component, and as a communication tool. In this study, we used global lipidomic methods to evaluate the lipids in leaf-cutter ant fungal gardens. Leaf-cutter ants and their coevolved fungal cultivar,Leucoagaricus gongylophorus, are a model mutualistic system. The fungus enzymatically digests fresh plant material that the ants cut and deliver, converting energy and nutrients from plants, and providing them to the ants through specialized hyphal swellings called gongylidia. Using combined liquid chromatography, ion mobility spectrometry, and tandem mass spectrometry we evaluated differences between the molecular speciation of lipids in the leaf-cutter ant fungal garden ecosystem. This lipidomic study characterized leaves that are fed to the gardens, gongylidia that are produced by the fungus to feed the ants, and spatially resolved regions of the fungal garden through stages of leaf degradation. Lipids containing alpha-linolenic acid (18:3) were enriched in leaves and the top of the gardens, but not dominant in the middle or bottom regions. Gongylidia were dominated by lipids containing linoleic acid (18:2). To evaluate the communicative potential of the lipids in fungal gardens we conducted a behavioral experiment that showedAttaleaf-cutter ants responded differently to 18:3 and 18:2 fatty acids, with aggression towards 18:3 and attraction for 18:2. This work demonstrates the role of lipids in both the transfer of energy and as an inter-kingdom communication tool in leaf-cutter ant fungal gardens.

Importance

In this work we examined the role of lipids in the mutualism between leaf-cutter ants and fungus. These ants cut fresh leaf material, which they provide to their fungal cultivar, that converts energy and nutrients from the plants and provides it to the ants in specialized hyphal swellings called gongylidia. This work constitutes the first example of a global lipidomics study of a symbiotic system and provides insights as to how the fungus modifies plant lipids into a usable source for the ants. Through a behavioral experiment, this work also demonstrates how lipids can be used as an inter-kingdom communication tool, in this case an attractant, rather than as a repellant, which is more often seen.
Guiding oligodendrocyte precursor cell maturation with urokinase plasminogen activator-degradable elastin-like protein hydrogels
Authors: Meco Edi , Zheng W. Sharon , Sharma Anahita H. , Lampe Kyle J.
Published: July 2020

Demyelinating injuries and diseases, like multiple sclerosis, affect millions of people worldwide. Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) have the potential to repair demyelinated tissue because they can both self-renew and differentiate into oligodendrocytes (OLs), the myelin producing cells of the central nervous system (CNS). Cell-matrix interactions impact OPC differentiation into OLs, but the process is not fully understood. Biomaterial hydrogel systems help to elucidate cell-matrix interactions because they can mimic specific properties of native CNS tissue in anin vitrosetting. We investigated whether OPC maturation into OLs is influenced by interacting with a urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) degradable extracellular matrix (ECM). uPA is a proteolytic enzyme that is transiently upregulated in the developing rat brain, with peak uPA expression correlating with an increase in myelin productionin vivo. OPC-like cells isolated through the Mosaic Analysis with Double Marker technique (MADM OPCs) produced low molecular weight uPA in culture. MADM OPCs were encapsulated into two otherwise similar elastin-like protein (ELP) hydrogel systems: one that was uPA degradable and one that was non-degradable. Encapsulated MADM OPCs had similar viability, proliferation, and metabolic activity in uPA degradable and non-degradable ELP hydrogels. Expression of OPC maturation-associated genes, however, indicated that uPA degradable ELP hydrogels promoted MADM OPC maturation although not sufficiently for these cells to differentiate into OLs.

Graphical Abstract – For table of contents only
Linking minimal and detailed models of CA1 microcircuits reveals how theta rhythms emerge and how their frequencies are controlled
Authors: Chatzikalymniou Alexandra P , Gumus Melisa , Lunyov Anton R , Rich Scott , Lefebvre Jeremie , Skinner Frances K
Published: July 2020

The wide variety of cell types and their inherent biophysical complexities pose a challenge to our understanding of oscillatory activities produced by cellular-based computational models. This challenge stems from the high-dimensional and multi-parametric nature of these systems. To overcome this issue, we implement systematic comparisons of minimal and detailed models of CA1 microcircuits that generate intra-hippocampal theta rhythms (3-12 Hz). We leverage insights from minimal models to guide detailed model explorations and obtain a cellular perspective of theta generation. Our findings distinguish the pyramidal cells as the theta rhythm initiators and reveal that their activity is regularized by the inhibitory cell populations, supporting an ‘inhibition-based tuning’ mechanism. We find a strong correlation between the pyramidal cell input current and the resulting LFP theta frequency, establishing that the intrinsic pyramidal cell properties underpin network frequency characteristics. This work provides a cellular-based foundation from whichin vivotheta activities can be explored.
Genome-wide bioinformatic analyses predict key host and viral factors in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis
Authors: Ferrarini Mariana G. , Lal Avantika , Rebollo Rita , Gruber Andreas , Guarracino Andrea , Gonzalez Itziar Martinez , Floyd Taylor , de Oliveira Daniel Siqueira , Shanklin Justin , Beausoleil Ethan , Pusa Taneli , Pickett Brett E. , Aguiar-Pulido Vanessa
Published: July 2020

The novel betacoronavirus named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused a worldwide pandemic (COVID-19) after initially emerging in Wuhan, China. Here we applied a novel, comprehensive bioinformatic strategy to public RNA sequencing and viral genome sequencing data, to better understand how SARS-CoV-2 interacts with human cells. To our knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis to predict host factors that play a specific role in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, distinct from other respiratory viruses. We identified differentially expressed genes, isoforms and transposable element families specifically altered in SARS-CoV-2 infected cells. Well-known immunoregulators includingCSF2, IL-32, IL-6andSERPINA3were differentially expressed, while immunoregulatory transposable element families were overexpressed. We predicted conserved interactions between the SARS-CoV-2 genome and human RNA-binding proteins such as hnRNPA1, PABPC1 and eIF4b, which may play important roles in the viral life cycle. We also detected four viral sequence variants in the spike, polymerase, and nonstructural proteins that correlate with severity of COVID-19. The host factors we identified likely represent important mechanisms in the disease profile of this pathogen, and could be targeted by prophylactics and/or therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2.

Graphical Abstract
Beware That COVID-19 Would Be Worse in Winter: A Study of a Global Panel of 1236 Regions
Authors: Zhang Chen , Liao Hua , Strobl Eric , Li Hui , Li Ru , Jensen Steen Solvang , Zhang Ying
Published: July 2020

It is believe that weather conditions such as temperature and humidity have effects on COVID-19 transmission. However, these effects are not clear due to the limited observations and difficulties in separating impacts of social distancing. COVID-19 data and social-economic features of 1236 regions in the world (1112 regions at the provincial level and 124 countries with small land area) were collected. A Large-scale satellite data was combined with these data with a regression analysis model to explore effects of temperature and relative humidity on COVID-19 spreading, as well as the possible transmission risk by seasonal cycles. The result show that temperature and relative humidity are shown to be negatively correlated with COVID-19 transmission throughout the world. Further, the effect of temperature and humidity is almost linear based on our samples, with uncertainty surrounding any non-linear effects. Government intervention (e.g. lockdown policies) and lower population movement contributed to the decrease the new daily case ratio. The conclusions withstand several robustness checks, such as observation scales and maximum/minimum temperature. Weather conditions are not the decisive factor in COVID-19 transmission, in that government intervention as well as public awareness, could contribute to the mitigation of the spreading of the virus. As temperature drops in winter, the transmission possibly speeds up again. It deserves a dynamic government policy to mitigate COVID-19 transmission in winter.