bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Neutralizing Antibody Titers in Convalescent Plasma and Recipients in New Mexico: An Open Treatment Study in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Bradfute Steven B , Hurwitz Ivy , Yingling Alexandra V , Ye Chunyan , Cheng Qiuying , Noonan Timothy P , Raval Jay S , Sosa Nestor R , Mertz Gregory J , Perkins Douglas J , Harkins Michelle S
Published: August 2020

Background

Convalescent plasma (CP) is a potentially important therapy for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, knowledge regarding neutralizing antibody (NAb) titers in donor plasma and their impact in patients with acute COVID-19 remains largely undetermined. We measured NAb titers in CP and in patients with acute COVID-19 before and after transfusion through the traditional Food and Drug Administration investigational new drug pathway.

Methods

We performed a single-arm interventional trial measuring NAb and total antibody titers before and after CP transfusion over a 14-day period in hospitalized patients with laboratory-confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection.

Results

NAb titers in the donor CP units were low (<1:40 to 1:160) and had no effect on recipient neutralizing activity 1 day after transfusion. NAb titers were detected in 6 of 12 patients on enrollment and in 11 of 12 at ≥2 time points. Average titers peaked on day 7 and declined toward day 14 (P = .004). Nab titers and immunoglobulin G levels were correlated in donor plasma units (ρ = 0.938; P < .001) and in the cumulative patient measures (ρ = 0.781; P < .001).

Conclusions

CP infusion did not alter recipient NAb titers. Prescreening of CP may be necessary for selecting donors with high titers of neutralizing activity for infusion into patients with COVID-19.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT04434131.
Multi-Platform Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 Serology Assays for the Detection of COVID-19
Authors: Suhandynata Raymond T , Hoffman Melissa A , Kelner Michael J , McLawhon Ronald W , Reed Sharon L , Fitzgerald Robert L
Published: August 2020

Background

COVID-19 is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a novel beta-coronavirus that is responsible for the 2019 coronavirus pandemic. Acute infections should be diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based tests, but serology tests can demonstrate previous exposure to the virus.

Methods

We compared the performance of the Diazyme, Roche, and Abbott SARS-CoV-2 serology assays using 179 negative participants to determine negative percentage agreement (NPA) and in 60 SARS-CoV-2 PCR-confirmed positive patients to determine positive percentage agreement (PPA) at 3 different time frames following a positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR result.

Results

At ≥15 days, the PPA (95% CI) was 100 (86.3–100)% for the Diazyme IgM/IgG panel, 96.0 (79.7–99.9)% for the Roche total Ig assay, and 100 (86.3–100)% for the Abbott IgG assay. The NPA (95% CI) was 98.3 (95.2–99.7)% for the Diazyme IgM/IgG panel, 99.4 (96.9–100)% for the Roche total Ig assay, and 98.9 (96.0–99.9)% for the Abbott IgG assay. When the Roche total Ig assay was combined with either the Diazyme IgM/IgG panel or the Abbott IgG assay, the positive predictive value was 100% while the negative predictive value remained greater than 99%.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrates that the Diazyme, Roche, and Abbott SARS-CoV-2 serology assays have similar clinical performances. We demonstrated a low false-positive rate across all 3 platforms and observed that false positives observed on the Roche platform are unique compared to those observed on the Diazyme or Abbott assays. Using multiple platforms in tandem increases the PPVs, which is important when screening populations with low disease prevalence.
Effects of iron on intestinal development and epithelial maturation of suckling piglets
Authors: Zhou Jing , Dong Zhenglin , Wan Dan , Wang Qiye , Haung Jing , Huang Pengfei , Li Yali , Ding Xueqin , Li Jianzhong , Yang Huansheng , Yin Yulong
Published: August 2020

The purpose of the present study was to discover the effects of iron on the intestinal development and epithelial maturation of suckling piglets. Twenty-seven newborn male piglets from 9 sows (3 piglets per sow), with similar body weight, were selected. The 3 piglets from the same sow were randomly divided into 1 of the 3 groups. The piglets were orally administrated with 2 mL of normal saline (CON group) or with 25 mg of iron by ferrous sulfate (OAFe group; dissolved in normal saline) on the 2nd, 7th, 12th, and 17th day, respectively, or intramuscularly injected with 100 mg of iron by iron dextran (IMFe group) on the 2nd day. The slaughter was performed on the 21st day and intestinal samples were collected. Compared with the CON group, iron supplementation significantly increased the length (P < 0.001), weight (P < 0.001), relative weight (P < 0.001), and the length:weight ratio (P < 0.001) of the small intestine in both OAFe and IMFe groups. The villus height (P < 0.001), crypt depth (CD) (P < 0.001), villus width (P = 0.002), and surface area (P < 0.001) in the jejunum of IMFe and OAFe piglets were also greater than those in CON piglets. The mRNA expression of trehalase (Treh; P = 0.002) and sucrase isomaltase (Sis; P = 0.043), markers of epithelial maturation, increased in OAFe and IMFe piglets, respectively. Moreover, enterocyte vacuolization, observed in fetal-type enterocyte, was reduced in OAFe and IMFe piglets, compared with CON piglets. However, no significant difference in the expression of the target genes of wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was observed. The results indicated that both oral administration and intramuscular injection with iron promoted intestinal development and epithelial maturation in suckling piglets and that the effects of iron may be independent of wnt/β-catenin signaling.
Sugar content of diet does not buffer against chronic oral imidacloprid exposure in the alfalfa leafcutting bee (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae)
Authors: Cecala Jacob M , Baronia Danelle Angeline , Wilson Rankin Erin E
Published: August 2020

Bees are economically critical pollinators, but are declining broadly due to several stressors, including nontarget exposure to insecticides and deficiencies in nutrition. Understanding the simultaneous impact of stressors, particularly interactions between them, is critical to effectively conserving bees. Although behavioral effects of pesticides like neonicotinoids have received some attention in solitary bees, our understanding of how they are modulated by diet quality is limited. Furthermore, scarce data exist on what concentrations of orally ingested neonicotinoids elicit mortality in solitary bees. In a controlled exposure laboratory experiment, we investigated how diet quality, as sugar concentration, and chronic oral exposure to imidacloprid affect adult alfalfa leafcutting bees, Megachile rotundata (Fabricius). We provided individuals ad libitum with either 20 or 50% (m/m) sucrose syrups containing either 0, 30, or 300 ppb imidacloprid (measuring 0, 27, and 209 ppb via an ELISA assay). Over 5 wk, we tracked behavior and survivorship of individuals. Imidacloprid decreased survivorship in a dose-dependent fashion, but sucrose content did not affect survivorship, even in bees not fed imidacloprid. In the high imidacloprid treatment, 45% of bees were observed in a motionless supine position while still alive, with this effect appearing to be buffered against by the higher sucrose diet. Our results suggest that diets higher in sugar concentration may prevent an intermediate stage of poisoning, but do not ultimately extend longevity. In devising risk assessments for bees, it is important to consider that interactions between stressors may occur in the stages leading up to death even if survivorship is unaffected.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: Identifying Adaptive Solutions for Colorectal Cancer Screening in Underserved Communities
Authors: Nodora Jesse N , Gupta Samir , Howard Nicole , Motadel Kelly , Propst Tobe , Rodriguez Javier , Schultz James , Velasquez Sharon , Castañeda Sheila F , Rabin Borsika , Martínez María Elena
Published: August 2020

The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has dramatically impacted numerous health and economic fronts. Because of the stay-at-home mandate and practice of physical distancing, nearly all preventive care measures have been halted, including colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. The health consequences of this temporary suspension are of great concern, particularly for underserved populations, who experience substantial CRC-related disparities. In this commentary, we describe challenges and opportunities to deliver COVID-19–adapted CRC screening to medically underserved populations receiving care in community health centers (CHC). This perspective is based on key informant interviews with CHC medical directors, teleconference discussions, and strategic planning assessments. To address the unprecedented challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, we identify 2 broad calls to action: invest in CHCs now and support equitable and adaptable telehealth solutions now and in the future. We also recommend 4 CRC-specific calls to action: establish COVID-19–adapted best practices to implement mailed fecal immunochemical test programs, implement grassroots advocacy to identify community gastroenterologists who commit to performing colonoscopies for CHC patients, assess cancer prevention priorities among individuals in underserved communities, and assess regional CRC screening and follow-up barriers and solutions. The COVID-19 pandemic may further exacerbate existing CRC screening disparities in underserved individuals. This will likely lead to delayed diagnosis, a shift to later-stage disease, and increased CRC deaths. To prevent this from happening, we call for timely action and a commitment to address the current extraordinary CRC screening challenges for vulnerable populations.
Palatal steatocystoma simplex—a rare oral finding at an even rarer location
Authors: Kaya Sebahat , Zimmer Stefanie , Kämmerer Peer Wolfgang
Published: August 2020

Steatocystoma is a rare, benign cyst that mostly originates from a dermal sebaceous gland. It can be divided into steatocystoma multiplex—with multiple locations—and steatocystoma simplex occurring at a single site. The lesion is mostly located on the skin but can be found on other locations as well. This is the first case report of steatocystoma simplex that was found in the palate of a 37-year-old male. After resection with small safety margins and local wound dressing, no recurrence was detected during a follow-up of 1.5 years.
Pediatric Prehospital Airway Management by U.S. Forces in Iraq and Afghanistan
Authors: Koslow Elizabeth A , Borgman Matthew A , April Michael D , Schauer Steven G
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Airway obstruction is a treatable cause of potentially preventable death on the battlefield. Emergency cricothyrotomies are rarely performed in developed countries, but are a common prehospital procedure in recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. We describe prehospital airway interventions performed on pediatric casualties with a focus on cricothyrotomy during these recent conflicts.

Materials and Methods

This is a secondary analysis of previously published dataset from the Department of Defense Trauma Registry for pediatric encounters from January 2007 to January 2017. Within our dataset we searched for all instances of airway interventions in the prehospital setting.

Results

During this time, there were 3,439 pediatric casualties in the registry with a total of 18 prehospital cricothyrotomies and 211 prehospital intubations. For cricothyrotomies, the median age was 10 years, most (72.2%) were male, median composite injury score was 25, most were injured by explosive (44.4%), more commonly located in Afghanistan (77.8%), and approximately half survived to hospital discharge (44.4%). The head was most frequently injured (44.4%). Of those undergoing endotracheal intubation, the median age was 10 years, most (75.8%) were male, median injury score was 17, most were injured by explosives (53.5%), most were in Afghanistan (85.7%), and most survived to hospital discharge (66.8%). The head/neck most frequently had a serious injury (56.8%).

Conclusions

In this dataset, 6.8% of children underwent prehospital intubation and 0.5% underwent prehospital cricothyrotomy. Airway interventions were frequently associated with head injuries. This highlights the importance of training and equipping prehospital medical personnel for pediatric trauma care in accordance with military clinical practice guidelines.
Black dwarf supernova in the far future
Authors: Caplan M E
Published: August 2020

In the far future, long after star formation has ceased, the universe will be populated by sparse degenerate remnants, mostly white dwarfs, though their ultimate fate is an open question. These white dwarfs will cool and freeze solid into black dwarfs while pycnonuclear fusion will slowly process their composition to iron-56. However, due to the declining electron fraction, the Chandrasekhar limit of these stars will be decreasing and will eventually be below that of the most massive black dwarfs. As such, isolated dwarf stars with masses greater than ∼1.2 M⊙ will collapse in the far future due to the slow accumulation of iron-56 in their cores. If proton decay does not occur, then this is the ultimate fate of about 1021 stars, approximately 1 percent of all stars in the observable universe. We present calculations of the internal structure of black dwarfs with iron cores as a model for progenitors. From pycnonuclear fusion rates, we estimate their lifetime and thus delay time to be 101100 yr. We speculate that high-mass black dwarf supernovae resemble accretion induced collapse of O/Ne/Mg white dwarfs while later low mass transients will be similar to stripped-envelope core-collapse supernova, and may be the last interesting astrophysical transients to occur prior to heat death.
Digestive gland microbiome of Pleurobema cordatum: mesocosms induce dysbiosis
Authors: Aceves Alison K , Johnson Paul D , Atkinson Carla L , van Ee Brian C , Bullard Stephen A , Arias Cova R
Published: August 2020

Herein, we characterized the digestive gland (‘gut’) bacterial community (microbiome) of the Ohio pigtoe, Pleurobema cordatum (Rafinesque, 1820), using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Two populations were compared: wild P. cordatum (n = 5) from the Tennessee River and P. cordatum (n = 9) relocated to artificial mesocosms and exposed to various thermal regimes for 2 weeks. We also characterized the bacterial communities from the habitat (water and sediment) of these wild and mesocosm-held populations. The gut microbiome of wild P. cordatum was dominated by members of the bacterial phylum Tenericutes (72%). By contrast, the gut microbiome of mesocosm-held P. cordatum was dominated by members of the bacterial phylum Proteobacteria (64%). We found no temperature-associated difference in the gut microbiome of mesocosm-held P. cordatum. The bacterial communities of water and sediment from the Tennessee River were diverse and distinct from those of the studied mussels. By contrast, the bacterial communities of water and sediment in the mesocosms were dominated by Proteobacteria. These results suggest that when the studied mussels were moved into artificial rearing environments, their gut microbiome shifted to reflect that of their habitat (i.e. an increase in Proteobacteria). Moreover, the abundance of Tenericutes (also previously reported in other unionids) was reduced from 72% in wild mussels to 3% in mesocosm-held mussels. As a result, we think that mesocosm-held P. cordatum became dysbiotic, which could explain the observed wasting syndrome and associated trickling mortalities in captive P. cordatum.
DNA methylation profiling identifies epigenetic differences between early versus late stages of diabetic chronic kidney disease
Authors: Lecamwasam Ashani , Novakovic Boris , Meyer Braydon , Ekinci Elif I , Dwyer Karen M , Saffery Richard
Published: August 2020

Background

We investigated a cross-sectional epigenome-wide association study of patients with early and late diabetes-associated chronic kidney disease (CKD) to identify possible epigenetic differences between the two groups as well as changes in methylation across all stages of diabetic CKD. We also evaluated the potential of using a panel of identified 5′-C-phosphate-G-3′ (CpG) sites from this cohort to predict the progression of diabetic CKD.

Methods

This cross-sectional study recruited 119 adults. DNA was extracted from blood using the Qiagen QIAampDNA Mini Spin Kit. Genome-wide methylation analysis was performed using Illumina Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChips (HM850K). Intensity data files were processed and analysed using the minfi and MissMethyl packages for R. We examined the degree of methylation of CpG sites in early versus late diabetic CKD patients for CpG sites with an unadjusted P-value <0.01 and an absolute change in methylation of 5% (n = 239 CpG sites).

Results

Hierarchical clustering of the 239 CpG sites largely separated the two groups. A heat map for all 239 CpG sites demonstrated distinct methylation patterns in the early versus late groups, with CpG sites showing evidence of progressive change. Based on our differentially methylated region (DMR) analysis of the 239 CpG sites, we highlighted two DMRs, namely the cysteine-rich secretory protein 2 (CRISP2) and piwi-like RNA-mediated gene silencing 1 (PIWIL1) genes. The best predictability for the two groups involved a receiver operating characteristics curve of eight CpG sites alone and achieved an area under the curve of 0.976.

Conclusions

We have identified distinct DNA methylation patterns between early and late diabetic CKD patients as well as demonstrated novel findings of potential progressive methylation changes across all stages (1–5) of diabetic CKD at specific CpG sites. We have also identified associated genes CRISP2 and PIWIL1, which may have the potential to act as stage-specific diabetes-associated CKD markers, and showed that the use of a panel of eight identified CpG sites alone helps to increase the predictability for the two groups.
Plasma total adiponectin and changes in renal function in a cohort from the community: the prospective Data from an Epidemiological Study on the Insulin Resistance Syndrome study
Authors: Fumeron Frédéric , El Boustany Ray , Bastard Jean-Philippe , Fellahi Soraya , Balkau Beverley , Marre Michel , Venteclef Nicolas , Velho Gilberto , Roussel Ronan
Published: August 2020

Background

High adiponectin levels are associated with diabetic nephropathy. Nevertheless, it is not known whether plasma adiponectin is associated with renal function decline in the general population. We evaluated whether adiponectin concentrations were associated with changes in renal function in a community cohort, the Data from an Epidemiological Study on the Insulin Resistance Syndrome (DESIR) study.

Methods

Plasma adiponectin concentrations were measured in a random sample of 3284 people from the DESIR study, a 9-year prospective cohort from the general population. Data were analysed for three endpoints during follow-up: incidence of Stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD); the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criterion ‘certain drop in eGFR’ and rapid kidney function decline [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope steeper than −3 mL/min/1.73 m2/year].

Results

After exclusion of participants with an eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 at baseline and those with type 2 diabetes or impaired fasting glycaemia at any time during follow-up (remaining n = 2174), there was a 113% higher risk for a rapid decline in kidney function in participants with adiponectin above the third tertile (T3) versus below the first tertile (T1) (Ptrend = 0.004) and a 53% higher risk for kidney function decline as defined by the KDIGO criterion (Ptrend = 0.04). In a cross-sectional analysis, adiponectin was positively associated with urinary albumin:creatinine ratio at baseline (P = 0.009).

Conclusions

In a healthy cohort from the general population, higher levels of plasma adiponectin were associated with decreased renal function at baseline and at follow-up. This result is similar to what is observed in people with diabetic nephropathy, in contrast with animal models of nephropathy.
Youth Knowledge of Tobacco 21 and its Association With Intention to Use Tobacco
Authors: Dai Hongying , Chaney Lisa , Ellerbeck Edward , Friggeri Ressa , White Nancy , Catley Delwyn
Published: August 2020

Background

Raising the minimum legal age (MLA) of tobacco sales from 18 to 21 (Tobacco 21 [T21]) has recently been implemented nationwide as a method to reduce tobacco use, but empirical data on youth knowledge of T21 policies and related pathways to tobacco use are limited.

Methods

Data were collected from the 2018 Kansas Communities That Care Student Survey. Knowledge of the MLA was compared between T21 and non-T21 regions using a quasi-experimental design. Logistic regression and mediation analysis were conducted to assess the association between knowledge of the MLA, influencing factors, and intention to use tobacco.

Results

Of 16 949 students (aged between 11 and 18) completing the T21 survey, fewer students responded correctly about the MLA in T21 than in non-T21 regions (37.4% vs. 46.3% responded correctly, 27.6% vs. 24.2% responded incorrectly, respectively). In T21 regions, Hispanics and students who support T21 were more likely to respond correctly about the MLA. Among current non-tobacco users in T21 regions, students who responded correctly about the MLA were less likely to report intention to use tobacco (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.6–0.8]) than those who responded incorrectly. The pathway from knowledge of the MLA to intention to use tobacco was significantly mediated by increased support for T21 (p = .002), perceived difficulty in accessing cigarettes (p = .042), and reduced susceptibility to peer influence (p = .027).

Conclusions

Knowledge of the MLA was inversely associated with intention to use tobacco among youth. Educational campaigns to raise awareness and support for T21 among youth may improve the impact of T21 policies.

Implications

This study examined youth knowledge of the MLA to purchase tobacco products, and whether knowledge of the MLA was associated with reduced intention to use tobacco. It also examined other influencing factors (eg, perceived support for T21) and potential mediation pathways linking knowledge of the MLA with intention to use tobacco. Given the nationwide adoption of T21, educational campaigns to promote knowledge of the policy may improve its impact.
Does the Contrast Dispersion Pattern During Fluoroscopically Guided Cervical Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection Predict Short-Term Pain and Functional Outcomes? An Exploratory Analysis of Prospective Cohort Data
Authors: Conger Aaron , Sperry Beau P , Cheney Cole W , Kuo Keith , Petersen Russel , Randall Dustin , Salazar Fabio , Cunningham Shellie , Henrie A Michael , Bisson Erica , Kendall Richard , Teramoto Masaru , McCormick Zachary L
Published: August 2020

Summary of Background Data

No study has evaluated the relationship between contrast dispersion patterns and outcomes after fluoroscopically guided cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injection (CTFESI).

Objectives

Determine whether contrast dispersion patterns predict pain and functional outcomes after CTFESI.

Methods

Secondary analysis of data collected during two prospective studies of CTFESI for the treatment of refractory radicular pain. Contrast dispersion patterns visualized by true anteroposterior (AP) projections during CTFESIs were categorized by flow: 1) completely external to the lateral border of the neuroforamen (zone 1); 2) within the neuroforamen but without entry into the lateral epidural space (zone 2); and 3) with extension into the lateral epidural space (zone 3). At baseline and at 1 month post-CTFESI, neck pain, arm pain, and “dominant index pain” (the greater of arm or neck pain) were evaluated using a numeric rating scale (NRS); physical function was assessed using the Five-Item Version of the Neck Disability Index (NDI-5).

Results

One-month post-CTFESI, neck pain, arm pain, and “dominant index pain” reductions of ≥50% were observed in 39.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 28.2–51.8), 55.6% (95% CI, 43.0–67.5), and 44.1% (95% CI, 32.7–56.2) of participants, respectively. Regarding “dominant index pain,” 72.7% (95% CI, 40.8–91.2), 39.4% (95% CI, 24.2–57.0), and 37.5% (95% CI, 20.5–58.2) of participants reported ≥50% pain reduction when zone 1, zone 2, and zone 3 contrast flow patterns were observed. Contrast dispersion zone was not significantly associated with subgroup differences in neck pain, arm pain, or NDI-5 scores (P>0.05).

Conclusion

Improvements in pain and function 1 month after treatment with CTFESI did not differ significantly based on the contrast dispersion pattern. Future study is needed to confirm or refute these findings in other procedural settings, in broader patient populations, and with longer-term outcome assessment.
The Macroeconomics of Microfinance
Authors: Buera Francisco J , Kaboski Joseph P , Shin Yongseok
Published: August 2020

What is the aggregate and distributional impact of microfinance? To answer this question, we develop a quantitative macroeconomic framework of entrepreneurship and financial frictions in which microfinance is modelled as guaranteed small-size loans. We discipline and validate our model using recent empirical evaluations of small-scale microfinance programs. We find that the long-run general equilibrium impact is substantially different from the short-run effect. In the short-run partial equilibrium, output and capital increase with microfinance but total factor productivity (TFP) falls. In the long run, when general equilibrium effects are considered, as should be for economy-wide microfinance interventions, scaling up microfinance has only a small impact on per-capita income, because an increase in TFP is offset by lower capital accumulation. However, the vast majority of the population benefits from microfinance directly and indirectly. The welfare gains are larger for the poor and the marginal entrepreneurs, although higher interest rates in general equilibrium tilt the gains toward the rich.
TNFα inhibitors reduce bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis independent of clinical response by reducing osteoclast precursors and IL-20
Authors: Al-Bogami Mohammed , Bystrom Jonas , Clanchy Felix , Taher Taher E , Mangat Pamela , Williams Richard O , Jawad Ali S , Mageed Rizgar A
Published: August 2020

Objectives

About half of RA patients treated with TNFα inhibitors either do not respond or lose their initial therapeutic response over time. The clinical response is measured by reduction in DAS28, which primarily reflects inflammation. However, other effects of TNFα inhibitors, such as impact on bone erosion, are not assessed by DAS28. We aimed to examine the effect of TNFα inhibitors on bone density, bone biomarkers and cytokine production in responder and non-responder patients and assessed mechanisms of action.

Methods

BMD in the lumbar spine and femur neck of 117 RA patients was measured by DEXA scan. Bone turnover biomarkers CTX, osteoprotegerin (OPG), osteocalcin and RANKL were measured by ELISA. Levels of 16 cytokines in plasma and in tissue culture supernatants of ex vivo T cells were measured by multiplex assays and ELISA. The effect of treatment with TNFα inhibitors on blood mononuclear cell (MNC) differentiation to osteoclast precursors (OCP) was measured flow cytometry and microscopy.

Results

TNFα inhibitors improved lumbar spine BMD but had modest effects on blood bone biomarkers, irrespective of patients’ clinical response. Blood OCP numbers and the ability of monocytes to differentiate to OCP in vitro declined after treatment. Treatment also reduced RANK expression and IL-20 production. BMD improvement correlated with reduced levels of IL-20 in responder patients.

Conclusion

This study reveals that TNFα inhibitors reduce lumbar spine bone loss in RA patients irrespective of changes in DAS28. The reduction in bone loss is associated with reduction in IL-20 levels in responder patients.
Is obesity related to enhanced neural reactivity to visual food cues? A review and meta-analysis
Authors: Morys Filip , García-García Isabel , Dagher Alain
Published: August 2020

Theoretical work suggests that obesity is related to enhanced incentive salience of food cues. However, evidence from both behavioral and neuroimaging studies on the topic is mixed. In this work, we review the literature on cue reactivity in obesity and perform a preregistered meta-analysis of studies investigating effects of obesity on brain responses to passive food pictures viewing. Further, we examine whether age influences brain responses to food cues in obesity. In the meta-analysis, we included 13 studies of children and adults that investigated group differences (obese vs lean) in responses to food vs non-food pictures viewing. While we found no significant differences in the overall meta-analysis, we show that age significantly influences brain response differences to food cues in the left insula and the left fusiform gyrus. In the left insula, obese vs lean brain differences in response to food cues decreased with age, while in the left fusiform gyrus the pattern was opposite. Our results suggest that there is little evidence for obesity-related differences in responses to food cues and that such differences might be mediated by additional factors that are often not considered.
Tools of the trade: estimating time-varying connectivity patterns from fMRI data
Authors: Iraji Armin , Faghiri Ashkan , Lewis Noah , Fu Zening , Rachakonda Srinivas , Calhoun Vince D
Published: August 2020

Given the dynamic nature of the brain, there has always been a motivation to move beyond ‘static’ functional connectivity, which characterizes functional interactions over an extended period of time. Progress in data acquisition and advances in analytical neuroimaging methods now allow us to assess the whole brain’s dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) and its network-based analog, dynamic functional network connectivity at the macroscale (mm) using fMRI. This has resulted in the rapid growth of analytical approaches, some of which are very complex, requiring technical expertise that could daunt researchers and neuroscientists. Meanwhile, making real progress toward understanding the association between brain dynamism and brain disorders can only be achieved through research conducted by domain experts, such as neuroscientists and psychiatrists. This article aims to provide a gentle introduction to the application of dFC. We first explain what dFC is and the circumstances under which it can be used. Next, we review two major categories of analytical approaches to capture dFC. We discuss caveats and considerations in dFC analysis. Finally, we walk readers through an openly accessible toolbox to capture dFC properties and briefly review some of the dynamic metrics calculated using this toolbox.
Diethylhexyl phthalate induces teratogenic effects through oxidative stress response in a chick embryo model
Authors: Song Ge , Wang Rui , Cui Yi , Hao Chan Juan , Xia Hong-Fei , Ma Xu
Published: August 2020

Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is known as a persistent environmental pollutant. However, the possible effects of DEHP on human neural tube defects (NTDs) remain elusive. We set out to investigate the exposure of DEHP in human and explore the association of DEHP and NTDs. The level of DEHP in maternal urine was measured and analyzed by GC-MS. To further validate the results in human NTDs, chick embryos were used as animal models. Viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, oxidative stress indicators and apoptosis were detected in DEHP-treated chick embryos. Our research revealed that the detection ratio of positive DEHP and its metabolites in maternal urine were observed dramatically higher in NTDs population than that in normal controls (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, respectively). Moreover, DEHP treatment (10−6 M) led to developmental toxicity in chick embryos via accelerating oxidative stress response and cell apoptosis, and changing the level of oxidative stress-related indicators. Moreover, high dose choline (100 μg/μl) could partially restrain the toxicity effects induced by DEHP. Our data collectively imply that the incidence of NTDs may closely associate with DEHP exposure, which disturbs the development of neural tubes by enhancing oxidative stress.
COVID-19 and its Implications for Research on Work Ability
Authors: Truxillo Donald M , Cadiz David M , Brady Grant M
Published: August 2020

Research into work ability is increasing in the aging workforce literature. We argue that the COVID-19 pandemic has uncovered a number of possible gaps in our understanding of the work ability concept itself, its antecedents, and outcomes. We offer future research directions to further examine the theoretical underpinnings of work ability, moderators that may enhance its effects, and ways to broaden work ability conceptually to better capture the experiences of older workers.
Menopausal transition experiences and management strategies of Chinese immigrant women: a scoping review
Authors: Zou Ping , Shao Jing , Luo Yan , Huang Yanjin , Zhang Hui , Sidani Souraya
Published: August 2020

Importance and Objective:

Chinese immigrants are among some of the fastest growing groups in many Western countries, and experience challenges such as language barriers, education gaps, and gender discrimination, which highlights the need for special attention and consideration in Western health care. The purpose of this scoping review is to summarize existing research on the menopausal experiences of Chinese immigrant women (CIW).

Methods:

This scoping review was written in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, AgeLine, ERIC, ProQuest, Nursing and Allied Health Database, PsycARTICLES, Sociology Database, and Education Research Complete were utilized for the literature search. Articles were included if they examined CIW experiencing menopausal transition. A total of 18 studies were included for review.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Findings suggested that CIW experienced a variety of physical symptoms, including muscle and joint pain, urogenital symptoms, vasomotor symptoms, weight gain, decreased physical strength, vision changes, and skin changes. Muscle and joint pain were particularly prevalent and emphasized. CIW also experienced psycho-behavioral symptoms including emotional changes, depression, memory loss, and sexual dysfunction. However, they had a decreased concern regarding symptoms of sexual dysfunction and decreased libido when compared with women from Western cultures. CIW interpreted menopause as a natural aging process involving the next step in life. Cultural expectations of stoicism and silence may cause immigrant women to be less vocal about their menopause experiences and result in feelings of loneliness. Acculturation may be both a facilitator and a barrier to a healthy menopausal transition. CIW were resistant to Western Medicine management such as hormone therapy but were willing to incorporate traditional medicine into their health care. They believed that a healthy mentality was important and used various psychocognitive strategies to maintain a good quality of life. Healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers need to consider the unique characteristics of CIW's menopausal transition in research, intervention innovation, and practice.
Junctional and cytoplasmic contributions in wound healing
Authors: Mosaffa Payman , Tetley Robert J. , Rodríguez-Ferran Antonio , Mao Yanlan , Muñoz José J.
Published: August 2020

Wound healing is characterized by the re-epitheliation of a tissue through the activation of contractile forces concentrated mainly at the wound edge. While the formation of an actin purse string has been identified as one of the main mechanisms, far less is known about the effects of the viscoelastic properties of the surrounding cells, and the different contribution of the junctional and cytoplasmic contractilities. In this paper, we simulate the wound healing process, resorting to a hybrid vertex model that includes cell boundary and cytoplasmic contractilities explicitly, together with a differentiated viscoelastic rheology based on an adaptive rest-length. From experimental measurements of the recoil and closure phases of wounds in the
Drosophila
wing disc epithelium, we fit tissue viscoelastic properties. We then analyse in terms of closure rate and energy requirements the contributions of junctional and cytoplasmic contractilities. Our results suggest that reduction of junctional stiffness rather than cytoplasmic stiffness has a more pronounced effect on shortening closure times, and that intercalation rate has a minor effect on the stored energy, but contributes significantly to shortening the healing duration, mostly in the later stages.
Characterization of cone size and centre in keratoconic corneas
Authors: Eliasy Ashkan , Abass Ahmed , Lopes Bernardo T. , Vinciguerra Riccardo , Zhang Haixia , Vinciguerra Paolo , Ambrósio Renato , Roberts Cynthia J. , Elsheikh Ahmed
Published: August 2020

A novel method to locate the centre of keratoconus (KC) and the transition zone between the pathological area and the rest of the corneal tissue is proposed in this study. A spherical coordinate system was used to generate a spherical height map measured relative to the centre of the optimal sphere fit, and normal to the surface. The cone centre was defined as the point with the maximum height. Second derivatives of spherical height were then used to estimate the area of pathology in an iterative process. There was mirror symmetry between cone centre locations in both eyes. The mean distance between cone centre and corneal apex was 1.45 ± 0.25 mm (0.07–2.00), the mean cone height normal to the surface was 37 ± 23 µm (2–129) and 75 ± 45 µm (5–243) in the anterior and posterior surfaces, respectively. There was a significant negative correlation between the cone height and the radius of the sphere of optimal fit (p< 0.05 for both anterior and posterior surfaces). On average, posterior cone height was larger than the corresponding anterior cone height by 37 ± 24 µm (0–158). The novel method proposed can be used to estimate the cone centre and area, and explore the changes in anterior and posterior corneal surfaces that take place with KC progression. It can help improve understanding of keratoconic corneal morphology and assist in developing customized treatments.
Three-dimensional computation of fibre orientation, diameter and branching in segmented image stacks of fibrous networks
Authors: Eekhoff Jeremy D. , Lake Spencer P.
Published: August 2020

Fibre topography of the extracellular matrix governs local mechanical properties and cellular behaviour including migration and gene expression. While quantifying properties of the fibrous network provides valuable data that could be used across a breadth of biomedical disciplines, most available techniques are limited to two dimensions and, therefore, do not fully capture the architecture of three-dimensional (3D) tissue. The currently available 3D techniques have limited accuracy and applicability and many are restricted to a specific imaging modality. To address this need, we developed a novel fibre analysis algorithm capable of determining fibre orientation, fibre diameter and fibre branching on a voxel-wise basis in image stacks with distinct fibre populations. The accuracy of the technique is demonstrated on computer-generated phantom image stacks spanning a range of features and complexities, as well as on two-photon microscopy image stacks of elastic fibres in bovine tendon and dermis. Additionally, we propose a measure of axial spherical variance which can be used to define the degree of fibre alignment in a distribution of 3D orientations. This method provides a useful tool to quantify orientation distributions and variance on image stacks with distinguishable fibres or fibre-like structures.
Molecular characterization of respiratory syncytial virus circulating in Tunisia between 2015 and 2018
Authors: Jerbi Amira , Fodha Imene , Ben Hamida-Rebai Meriam , Ben Hadj Fredj Mouna , Ataoui Imene , Bennour Haifa , Abroug Saoussen , Khlifa Monia , Mathlouthi Jihen , Mahdhaoui Nabiha , Boussetta Khedija , Trabelsi Abdelhalim
Published: August 2020

Introduction. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most frequently identified viral agent in children with lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI). No data are available to date regarding RSV genotypes circulating in Tunisia.

Aim. The aim of the present study was to investigate the genetic variability of the glycoprotein G gene in Tunisian RSV strains.

Methodology. Nasopharyngeal aspirates were collected from infants hospitalized for LRTI in five Tunisian hospitals. All specimens were screened for RSV by a direct immunofluorescence assay (DIFA). To molecularly characterize Tunisian RSV strains, a phylogenetic analysis was conducted. Randomly selected positive samples were subjected to reverse transcription PCR amplifying the second hyper-variable region (HVR2) of the G gene.

Results. Among a total of 1417 samples collected between 2015 and 2018, 394 (27.8 %) were positive for RSV by DIFA. Analysis of 61 randomly selected RSV strains revealed that group A RSV (78.7 %) predominated during the period of study as compared to group B RSV (21.3 %). The phylogenetic analysis showed that two genotypes of RSV-A were co-circulating: the ON1 genotype with a 72-nt duplication in HVR2 of the G gene was predominant (98.0 % of RSV-A strains), while one RSV-A strain clustered with the NA1 genotype (2.0 %). Concerning Tunisian group B RSV strains, all sequences contained a 60-nt insertion in HVR2 and a clustered BA10 genotype.

Conclusion. These data suggest that RSV-A genotype ON1 and RSV-B genotype BA10, both with duplications in the G gene, were widely circulating in the Central coastal region of Tunisia between 2015 and 2018.
Clinical Characteristics and Severity of COVID-19 Disease in Patients from Boston Area Hospitals
Authors: Dashti Hesam , Bates David W. , Roche Elise , Fiskio Julie , Mora Samia , Demler Olga V.
Published: August 2020

We summarize key demographic, clinical, and medical characteristics of patients with respect to the severity of COVID-19 disease using Electronic Health Records Data of 4,140 SARS-CoV-2 positive subjects from several large Boston Area Hospitals. We found that prior use of antihypertensive medications as well as lipid lowering and other cardiovascular drugs (such as direct oral anticoagulants and antiplatelets) all track with increased severity of COVID-19 and should be further investigated with appropriate adjustment for confounders such as age and frailty. The three most common prior comorbidities are hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and prior pneumonia, all associated with increased severity.
Membrane Orientation and Oligomerization of the Melanocortin Receptor Accessory Protein 2
Authors: Chen Valerie , Bruno Antonio E. , Britt Laura L. , Hernandez Ciria C. , Gimenez Luis E. , Peisley Alys , Cone Roger D. , Millhauser Glenn L.
Published: August 2020

The melanocortin receptor accessory protein 2 (MRAP2) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of several G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) that are essential for energy balance and food intake. MRAP2 loss-of-function results in obesity in mammals. MRAP2 and its homolog MRAP1 have an unusual membrane topology and are the only known eukaryotic proteins that thread into the membrane in both orientations. In this study, we demonstrate that the conserved polybasic motif that dictates the membrane topology and dimerization of MRAP1 does not control the membrane orientation and dimerization of MRAP2. We also show that MRAP2 dimerizes through its transmembrane domain and can form higher order oligomers that arrange MRAP2 monomers in a parallel orientation. Investigating the molecular details of MRAP2 structure is essential for understanding the mechanism by which it regulates GPCRs and will aid in elucidating the pathways involved in metabolic dysfunction.
chTOG is a conserved mitotic error correction factor
Authors: Herman Jacob A. , Miller Matthew P. , Biggins Sue
Published: August 2020

Accurate chromosome segregation requires kinetochores on duplicated chromatids to biorient by attaching to dynamic microtubules from opposite spindle poles, which exerts forces to bring kinetochores under tension. However, kinetochores initially bind to MTs indiscriminately, resulting in errors that must be corrected. While the Aurora B protein kinase destabilizes low-tension attachments by phosphorylating kinetochores, low-tension attachments are intrinsically less stable than those under higher tensionin vitroindependent of Aurora activity. Intrinsic tensionsensitive behavior requires the microtubule regulator Stu2 (budding yeast Dis1/XMAP215 ortholog), which we demonstrate here is likely a conserved function for the TOG protein family. The human TOG protein, chTOG, localizes to kinetochores independent of microtubules by interacting with Hec1. We identify a chTOG mutant that regulates microtubule dynamics but accumulates erroneous kinetochore-microtubule attachments that Aurora B fails to destabilize. Thus, TOG proteins confer a unique, intrinsic error correction activity to kinetochores that ensures accurate chromosome segregation.
Time-series transcriptomics from cold, oxic subseafloor crustal fluids reveals a motile, mixotrophic microbial community
Authors: Seyler L.M. , Trembath-Reichert E. , Tully B.J. , Huber J.A.
Published: August 2020

The rock-hosted oceanic crustal aquifer is one of the largest habitable volumes on Earth, and it harbors a reservoir of microbial life that influences global-scale biogeochemical cycles. Here, we use time series metagenomic and metatranscriptomic data from a low-temperature, ridge flank environment that is representative of the majority of global hydrothermal fluid circulation in the ocean to reconstruct microbial metabolic potential, transcript abundance, and community dynamics. The data suggest that the microbial community in this subseafloor habitat is motile, chiefly heterotrophic or mixotrophic, and capable of using alternative electron acceptors such as nitrate and thiosulfate, in addition to oxygen. Anaerobic processes are most abundant in subseafloor horizons deepest in the aquifer, furthest from connectivity with the deep ocean, and there was little overlap in the active microbial populations between sampling horizons. Together, our results indicate the microbial community in the North Pond aquifer plays an important role in the oxidation of organic carbon within the crust, and is also metabolically flexible, with the ability to switch from autotrophy to heterotrophy, as well as function under low oxygen conditions. This work highlights the heterogeneity of microbial life in the subseafloor aquifer and provides new insights into biogeochemical cycling in ocean crust.