bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EPCR deficiency ameliorates inflammatory arthritis in mice by suppressing the activation and migration of T cells and dendritic cells
Authors: Xue Meilang , Lin Haiyan , Liang Hai Po Helena , Bereza-Malcolm Lara , Lynch Tom , Sinnathurai Premarani , Weiler Hartmut , Jackson Christopher , March Lyn
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) is highly expressed in synovial tissues of patients with RA, but the function of this receptor remains unknown in RA. This study investigated the effect of EPCR on the onset and development of inflammatory arthritis and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

CIA was induced in EPCR gene knockout (KO) and matched wild-type (WT) mice. The onset and development of arthritis was monitored clinically and histologically. T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), EPCR and cytokines from EPCR KO and WT mice, RA patients and healthy controls (HCs) were detected by flow cytometry and ELISA.

Results

EPCR KO mice displayed >40% lower arthritis incidence and 50% less disease severity than WT mice. EPCR KO mice also had significantly fewer Th1/Th17 cells in synovial tissues with more DCs in circulation. Lymph nodes and synovial CD4 T cells from EPCR KO mice expressed fewer chemokine receptors CXCR3, CXCR5 and CCR6 than WT mice. In vitro, EPCR KO spleen cells contained fewer Th1 and more Th2 and Th17 cells than WT and, in concordance, blocking EPCR in WT cells stimulated Th2 and Th17 cells. DCs generated from EPCR KO bone marrow were less mature and produced less MMP-9. Circulating T cells from RA patients expressed higher levels of EPCR than HC cells; blocking EPCR stimulated Th2 and Treg cells in vitro.

Conclusion

Deficiency of EPCR ameliorates arthritis in CIA via inhibition of the activation and migration of pathogenic Th cells and DCs. Targeting EPCR may constitute a novel strategy for future RA treatment.
A challenging path to rational and harmonised international regulation of indoor radon
Authors: Kovler Konstantin , Tsapalov Andrey
Published: May 2023

The main trends of indoor radon regulation in Europe are expressed through the standard ISO 11665-8. This standard, however, ignores the short-term tests (2–7 days in practice)—the main tests in the USA, and instead requires conducting long-term tests only (2–12 months)—without any justification. Moreover, the temporal (key) uncertainty of indoor radon is ignored altogether, a fact that does not allow the assessment of a room’s conformity with a normative at a given reliability (usually 95%). Thus, the current international regulation is neither harmonised nor rational. This paper reports the interim results of storming discussions within the ISO 11665-8 Focus Group, in charge of revising the aforementioned standard. Proposed are the rational criterion for conformity assessment of a room with a normative for both short- and long-term measurements, as well as the indicative values and the algorithm for determining indoor radon temporal uncertainty depending on the measurement duration.
Mediating probate and trust disputes—process challenges and tools: part 2
Authors: Islam Carl Amir-Ul
Published: May 2023

In Part 1, the author discussed ‘Preparation’, including the making of pre-mediation day Zoom/TEAMS calls and a checklist of issues for the mediator to run through at the start of the mediation day to ensure that each participant understands and is bound by the ‘ground rules’. In this part, the author discusses the challenges and tools available to a mediator during the mediation day to help create and manage an effective conversation between the participants. In addition, towards the end of the article, Mr Jacob J Meagher has contributed commentary on the Singapore Convention on Mediation (SCM), highlighting significant opportunities that may arise, depending upon how the SCM is enacted.
The liability of the foundation board under Austrian Private Foundation Law
Authors: Müller Katharina , Melzer Martin
Published: May 2023

The issue of liability is one of the most central in Austrian private foundation law. Experience has shown that the often close relationship between the generation of the first founders and the members of the foundation board is a reason for underestimating liability. Many foundation board members are unaware that the Austrian Private Foundation Act (Privatstiftungsgesetz) regulates the liability of the foundation board by analogy to the liability law provisions for corporations—and thus rather strictly. What often starts as a “friendship service” can have considerable consequences under liability law.
In Defence of White Freedom: Working Men’s Clubs and the Politics of Sociability in Late Industrial England
Authors: Schofield Camilla
Published: May 2023

While ongoing discrimination in jobs, welfare, and housing in 1970s England belied the social democratic promise of ‘equality of opportunity’ and the much-touted British value of ‘fair play’, racism at the door of the working men’s club told a different story. For reactionaries and liberals alike, it spoke to the uncertain future of working-class politics in late industrial England. This article shows how the legal and political controversies surrounding whites-only working men's clubs contribute to our understanding of the ‘white working class’ as a political subject in British public life. Even more, it reveals how—among club members—whiteness came to be invested with feelings of intimacy, kinship, respectability, and independence.
The influence of the Italian model of hardship in Latin America and international trade (with some notes from social sciences)
Authors: García Long Sergio
Published: May 2023

This article studies the Italian model of hardship and how it has influenced Latin American jurisdictions and international trade. On the one hand, it develops how various national jurisdictions have imported the Italian model and how it has been followed by certain international instruments. On the other hand, economics and psychology are applied to analyse the good and bad of the Italian model. Finally, the article reflects on whether there is one model of hardship that is better than another and where the Italian model stands in this respect.
Age-Aware Organizations and the Relationship Between Shift Work and Psychological Well-being Across the Lifespan
Authors: Piszczek Matthew M , Yestrepsky Joseph M , Thrasher Gregory R
Published: May 2023

As the global workforce ages, it has become more important to understand how seemingly age-neutral HR practices can create unintended age-specific effects. For example, shift work—nominally an age-neutral HR practice—has been shown to have stronger negative effects on older workers’ physical and mental health. Although these effects are well established, how organizations can mitigate the age-specific effects of scheduling practices represents an important gap in the aging workforce literature. More specifically, the role of the organization in setting human resource practices and policies that are sensitive to older workers likely determines the strength of the age-specific effects of shift work on psychological well-being. Using mixed effects analyses in a large dataset of German employees and employers, we integrate lifespan psychology and HR strategy research to examine the relationship between shift work and psychological well-being across working lives. We then examine how the implementation of organizational age structure analysis may buffer this relationship. Results largely support the benefits of an active, “age-aware” approach to managing the aging workforce as psychological well-being increased with age among all workers except shift workers in establishments that did not conduct an age structure analysis.
10Plastic Theory/Studies
Authors: Martell James
Published: May 2023

This chapter considers four of the most significant books on plastic theory and studies published in 2022: Alice Mah’s Plastic Unlimited: How Corporations Are Fuelling the Ecological Crisis and What We Can Do About It, Heather Davis’s Plastic Matter, Catherine Malabou’s Plasticity: The Promise of Explosion, and Ranjan Ghosh’s The Plastic Turn. It tries to show the common threads among these works and to see how their differences bespeak contemporary notions of plastic and plasticity that allow a diversity of thinkers to reflect not only on the emergency of a plastic and ecological crisis, but also on the role of ‘plastic thought’ in modernity, modern thought and science, and modernism. By way of conclusion, it looks at a notion that repeats itself among most of the volumes, the platonic term khôra, and how it relates to our conceptions of plasticity.
Broadening the Understanding of Mucinous Carcinoma of the Breast
Authors: Garcia Daniela , Rotenberg Scott , Brody Marion
Published: May 2023

Mucinous carcinoma (MC) is a rare invasive neoplasm comprising only 2% to 4% of all breast cancers,1 commonly affecting women under the sixth through eighth decades of life. Also referred to as colloid carcinoma, MC has been historically described as a circumscribed, round mass with indolent behavior occurring in older women. This is an oversimplification. The imaging appearance, biological behavior, and demographic profile of MC are variable, often correlating with histologic subtype and nuclear differentiation and in some instances mimicking benign pathologies. Broadening the understanding of MC will help radiologists establish concordance, guide clinical management, and accurately surveille cases in multidisciplinary tumor boards.
Piecing together the subtle clues of common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Kochanoff Kimberly DeVore
Published: May 2023

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency disorder that results in decreased immunity and increased infection risk. This multisystem disorder often presents as recurrent, prolonged respiratory tract infections. Other manifestations include chronic lung disease, systemic granulomatous disease, malignancies, enteropathy, splenomegaly, and autoimmune disease including cytopenias. Diagnosis often is delayed, affecting patient quality of life, morbidity, and mortality. This article reviews the presentation, diagnosis, and management of patients with CVID.
Smart Use of Smart Infusion Pumps
Authors: Aschenbrenner Diane S.
Published: May 2023

Smart infusion pumps have reduced but not eliminated medication errors. These errors are frequently related to misuse or underuse of the safety features of the pump.

The Institute for Safe Medication Practices offers safety considerations for using smart pumps and suggestions for maintaining an institution's smart pump drug library.
New Indication for Weight Loss Drug Semaglutide
Authors: Aschenbrenner Diane S.
Published: May 2023

The weight loss drug semaglutide (Wegovy) is now approved for pediatric patients ages 12 and older whose body mass index categorizes them as obese.
Initiating Virtual Nursing in General Inpatient Care
Authors: Roberson Amy E. , Carlson Marny , Kohler Christopher M. , Harris Patricia A. , Volkmann Charlotte L.
Published: May 2023

With increased demands for inpatient care and limited nursing resources, bedside RNs at one health care system were challenged to find experienced nurse colleagues to provide mentorship when they needed assistance in executing best practices. A virtual RN (ViRN) role was created to support bedside RNs and patients on designated general care inpatient units. The ViRN provided real-time virtual clinical guidance to bedside RNs and actively surveilled patients. Bedside RNs were surveyed by email to gauge the utility and their perceptions of integrating ViRNs into the nursing care team. RNs reported that they valued the consistent availability of having the ViRNs' expert nursing knowledge and virtual assistance with nursing tasks.
Coming Full Circle: A Transplant Nurse on Why Tissue Donation Matters
Authors: Scheese Carolyn H.
Published: May 2023

A son's loss and the healing power of giving
The Energy a Plastic Surgeon Expends during Liposuction
Authors: Durán Vega Hector César , Lopez Echaury Alejandro , Flores Emanuel
Published: May 2023

Background:

It is generally accepted that liposuction requires a significant amount of energy from surgeons. This procedure involves the use of specialized equipment and techniques to remove fat cells from the body, which can be physically demanding for surgeons. The amount of effort required for liposuction must be evaluated in terms of energy consumption. Our goal was to conduct a study to record the energy that the surgeon uses during liposuction and correlate these results with the volume of fat obtained as well as other variables.

Methods:

A series of cases was carried out from April 2022 to November 1, 2022, in three different plastic surgery centers. Three plastic surgeons recorded the procedures using an Apple Watch, choosing from among Apple Watch training options and free indoor walking. The surgeon then concluded the registration at the time of finishing the surgery and removed the surgical gloves and gowns.

Results:

Complete data were obtained for 63 patients. The average fat obtained per 1 kcal of energy was 6.14 cm3 of fat, and 160 cal to obtain 1 cm3 of fat by liposuction. Other data that demonstrated statistically significant correlations were fat volume versus average pace (km), total fat volume versus average heart rate, fat volume versus surgical time, and fat volume versus distance.

Conclusions:

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that requires considerable effort. This study demonstrates the amount of energy required for regular liposuction. Compared with other single procedures, three times more energy is required to complete liposuction.
Blood Product Replacement for Postpartum Hemorrhage
Authors: EID JOE , STAHL DAVID
Published: May 2023

Consideration for blood products replacement in postpartum hemorrhage should be given when blood loss exceeds 1.5 L or when an estimated 25% of blood has been lost. In cases of massive hemorrhage, standardized transfusion protocols have been shown to improve maternal morbidity and mortality. Most protocols recommend a balanced transfusion involving a 1:1:1 ratio of packed red blood cells, platelets, and fresh frozen plasma. Alternatives such as cryoprecipitate, fibrinogen concentrate, and prothrombin complex concentrates can be used in select clinical situations. Although transfusion of blood products can be lifesaving, it does have associated risks.
Prevalence and Morphologic Biomarkers of Metamorphopsia in eyes with “Resolved” Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Borrelli Enrico , Barresi Costanza , Battista Marco , Berni Alessandro , Ricardi Federico , Cascavilla Maria Lucia , Reibaldi Michele , Bandello Francesco
Published: May 2023

Purpose:

To assess relationships between demographics, clinical characteristics and optical coherence tomography (OCT) characteristics with persistence of metamorphopsia after resolution of subretinal fluid in eyes with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

Methods:

One-hundred participants with “resolved” (absence of subretinal fluid) chronic CSC were retrospectively analyzed. Patients underwent a complete ophthalmological evaluation including assessment of presence of metamorphopsia. At the study visit, OCT scans were reviewed for qualitative and quantitative features.

Results:

Sixty-six out of 100 (66.0%) patients complained of metamorphopsia. Both the foveal and parafoveal ganglion cell complex (GCC) thicknesses were thinner in CSC eyes with metamorphopsia (35.1±10.6 μm and 82.0±18.1 μm vs. 40.7±11.8 μm and 93.1±13.5 μm, p=0.030 and p<0.0001). In the foveal region, the outer plexiform layer and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thicknesses were thinner in patients with metamorphopsia (24.6±8.5 μm and 63.1±20.9 μm vs. 29.1±8.7 and 76.2±18.2 μm, p=0.016 and p=0.005). The ellipsoid zone band was more frequently discontinued in eyes with metamorphopsia (56.1 % vs. 35.3%, p=0.039). Multivariate stepwise linear regression analysis demonstrated that the strongest associations with presence of metamorphopsia were with parafoveal GCC thickness (p=0.004), foveal ONL thickness (p=0.010), and number of previous recurrences of subretinal fluid accumulation (p=0.017). The time interval from the last subretinal fluid resolution was not associated with the presence of metamorphopsia.

Conclusions:

In “resolved” CSC, clinical aspects (i.e., number of previous recurrences) and structural changes (i.e., GCC and ONL thinning) are associated with metamorphopsia after subretinal fluid resolution.
Effects of a Blocked Versus Full-Length Semester Design on Doctor of Physical Therapy Student Performance and Retention
Authors: McCallister Erin , Bernard Amanda , Flowers Daniel W. , Rachal Sant Lauren
Published: May 2023

Introduction.

Restrictions on in-person gatherings during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic required educational programs to explore alternative educational formats. The nature of physical therapy education as a blend of cognitive and psychomotor skill presents additional challenges. During a gradual return to in-person learning, the authors' institution chose to break a full-length 15-week semester into 3, 5-week blocks. The first aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of semester design on course performance. The second aim was to assess the effects of semester design on knowledge and skill retention.

Review of Literature.

In undergraduate studies, blocked courses or semesters held over a short period of time may result in equal or better performance compared with courses performed over a longer time. Few studies have been performed on the graduate student population. Most studies have focused on short-term cognitive knowledge acquisition.

Subjects.

Three cohorts of Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students were eligible to participate.

Methods.

Two DPT courses (1 first year and 1 second year) were selected to assess cognitive and psychomotor performance. Examination results were compared at the end of a full-length semester and blocked semester. A third course was selected to assess retention at 4 time points. Students were assessed on their cognitive retention using computer-based quizzes and psychomotor retention using in-person skills quizzes.

Results.

Median cognitive performance scores for both courses were slightly better during the blocked semester. There were no significant differences in median psychomotor scores. There was no significant interaction effect between semester structure and retention of cognitive knowledge or psychomotor skills, although there were significant changes in scores over time.

Discussion and Conclusion.

A blocked semester design may favor immediate cognitive performance. However, there is no significant effect on knowledge or skill retention over a 6-month period. Programs faced with the potential for in-person closures can select either semester structure based on their needs without compromising knowledge or skill retention.
Assessing Effectiveness of Physical Therapy Clinical Education Site Visits: Clinical Instructor and Student Perspectives
Authors: Lewis Michele (Shelly) , Lesser Melissa , Folkins Eric
Published: May 2023

Introduction.

Video, phone, or in-person site visits are used to assess clinical education in entry-level physical therapy education programs. The perspectives of students and clinical instructors (CIs) related to site visits were examined in this article using 2 consecutive surveys. The first included items related to in-person and phone call site visits. The second added video calls. The research purpose was to assess the CI and student perspectives on the effectiveness of site visits and explore the differences between in-person, video, and phone visits.

Review of Literature.

Published literature about the effectiveness of site visits is scarce. Two recent articles explored the director of clinical education and student perspectives of site visits. Future research concentrating on the clinician perspective of site visits was recommended.

Subjects.

A convenience sample of 104 CIs and 97 doctor of physical therapy students were recruited by email for the 2 surveys.

Methods.

A mixed-methods, triangular, validating, quantitative data model was used. Respondents answered open-ended questions and rated items on 5-point Likert scales. Descriptive and chi-square statistics were calculated, and themes were developed using qualitative analysis.

Results.

No significant difference was found in preference of site visit method between students and CIs. CIs rated the effectiveness of site visits similarly for all methods. Students rated in-person site visits as the most effective in the first survey and video calls as the most effective in the second survey. Qualitative analysis showed that CIs and students preferred in-person visits when the student was struggling. Considering closed-ended and open-ended questions on both surveys, CIs and students would rather meet individually with the faculty member.

Discussion and Conclusion.

The results of this study suggest that any type of site visit can be effective; in-person visits should be considered when students are struggling, and the site visitor should meet privately with the student and CI.
Presence of Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Risk Variants is Not Associated With Histologic Severity of Pediatric NAFLD
Authors: Khan Maya , Klepper Corie , Orkin Sarah , Arce-Clachar Ana Catalina , Bramlage Kristen , Fei Lin , Miethke Alexander , Kohli Rohit , Xanthakos Stavra , Mouzaki Marialena
Published: May 2023

Background:

Among adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alpha-1-antitrypsin (A1AT) heterozygosity has been linked to advanced liver disease; pediatric data remain unclear.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to determine whether A1AT PiZ or PiS variants are associated with liver disease severity in youth with NAFLD.

Methods:

Retrospective study of youth with confirmed NAFLD. Multivariable logistic regression used to determine independent associations between A1AT risk variants and histologic severity [NAFLD activity score (NAS) ≥5 and/or significant fibrosis (stage ≥2)].

Results:

The cohort included 269 patients, mean age 12 [±3] years with NAFLD and A1AT phenotyping (n = 260) and/or A1AT levels (n = 261). The mean NAS of the cohort was 4.2 [±1.5]; 50% had any, and 18% had significant fibrosis. Most (86%) had the MM A1AT phenotype, while 7% had the MS and 3% the MZ phenotype (the rest had other, nonpathogenic variants). Mean A1AT level was 123 mg/dL [±20]. A1AT levels did not differ by low versus high NAS (122 ± 2 vs 126 ± 19 mg/dL, P = 0.12) or by no/mild versus significant fibrosis (123 ± 20 vs 126 ± 20 mg/dL, P = 0.23, respectively). Carriers and noncarriers of the PiS or PiZ variants had similar NAS (mean NAS 3.8 ± 1.6 vs 4.2 ± 1.4; P = 0.25, respectively). Fibrosis severity did not differ by carrier vs noncarrier group: 38% versus 52% had any fibrosis (P = 0.17) and 14% versus 18% had significant fibrosis (P = 0.80, respectively). Multivariable modeling showed no association between A1AT risk variants and histologic severity.

Conclusion:

While not uncommon, carriage of the A1AT PiZ or PiS risk variants was not associated with histologic severity in children with NAFLD.
Creating Case Studies for Digital Health and Technology Competency in Nursing
Authors: Kunkel Dorcas E. , Tietze Mari F. , Wilson Marisa , Fant Catherine T. , Rivard Mary Jane , Belchez Chito A. , Forman Tracia M. , Husson Nancy M.
Published: May 2023

Background:

Nursing programs and their faculty must ensure that graduates have the informatics, digital health, and health care technologies competencies needed by health systems.

Problem:

A gap exists in nursing faculty knowledge, skills, and abilities for incorporating informatics, digital health, and technologies across curricula because of low focus on this area in faculty development initiatives and rapid adoption and evolution of technologies in health care systems.

Approach:

The Nursing Knowledge Big Data Science initiative Education Subgroup used a process to create case studies for including informatics, digital health, and the concomitant clinical reasoning/critical thinking competencies across curricula.

Outcomes:

Three case study examples were created using the process.

Conclusions:

The process for creating case studies that incorporate required informatics, digital health, and health care technologies can be used by nursing educators for teaching across their curricula and to assess student competency.
A Rare Case of Fatal Penile Strangulation in a Transgender Woman
Authors: Glensor Devan C. , Guan J. Jun
Published: May 2023

Penile strangulation is a surgical emergency with significant morbidity and potential mortality. It is often associated with psychiatric disorders; objects such as metal rings, plastic bottles, and rubber bands are commonly used. The San Francisco Office of the Chief Medical Examiner was presented with a 50-year-old transgender female decedent with a medical history of psychiatric and substance use disorders. Autopsy revealed external genitalia entrapped by a plastic bottle encircling the penile shaft at the base, causing severe edema and skin blebs of the penile shaft and glans, and evidence of urinary obstruction. We describe the accidental death of an adult transgender female decedent due to penile strangulation, which ultimately led to acute renal failure and death.
An Atypical Asphyxial Death
Authors: Blumenthal Ryan , Ferraris Stefanie Claudia
Published: May 2023

An atypical asphyxial death is presented. The deceased was found wrapped like a mummy with multiple layers of plastic and adhesive tape, lying face down on the floor of his home. The death scene was in the lounge area of a large, poorly-kempt, free-standing house. No obvious evidence of illicit drugs or other medications were identified. There was no pornographic material or other paraphernalia of a sexual nature in proximity to the body. According to the brother, the deceased had attempted similar incidents like this in the past, where someone was available to release him.

Because of the similar behaviour in the past, the background psychiatric history, and statements from the girlfriend and relatives, the authors propose that this represents an atypical asphyxia death.
Hyperplasia of Arachnoid Trabecular Cells
Authors: Maehara Tatsuro , Yamazaki Ayako , Kawabata-Iwakawa Reika , Fukuoka Kohei , Akazawa Ayumi , Okura Naoki , Nishiyama Masahiko , Nassiri Farshad , Wang Justin Z. , Zadeh Gelareh , Kikuta Kenichiro , Oka Hidehiro , Hirato Junko , Yokoo Hideaki , Nobusawa Sumihito
Published: May 2023

Central nervous system manifestations, a variety of benign and malignant tumors as well as non-neoplastic abnormalities, are found in over 70% of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) patients. Herein, we report hitherto undescribed space-occupying lesions in the setting of NF1. We aimed to clarify their characteristics, especially whether they represent neoplastic or non-neoplastic (hyperplastic) lesions. All 3 cases were preoperatively assessed as non-neoplastic; 2 and 1 cases were suspected to be arachnoid cysts and dilation of subarachnoid space, respectively. However, all lesions were revealed to be whitish jelly-like masses by operation, and the histology composed of spindle cells resembling arachnoid trabecular cells with moderate cellularity and cellular uniformity gave an impression that these lesions may be neoplastic. In contrast, electron microscopic analysis showed that the characteristics of these cells were compatible with those of normal arachnoid trabecular cells. Furthermore, whole-exome sequencing and array comparative genomic hybridization did not show any obvious alterations suggestive of their neoplastic nature. DNA methylation analysis demonstrated that these lesions were epigenetically distinct not only from meningiomas but also from normal healthy meninges. In conclusion, considering the clinicopathologic aspects of the present lesions and the results of the molecular analysis that failed to suggest their neoplastic nature, they may represent previously unrecognized rare hyperplasia of arachnoid trabecular cells, which may be associated with NF1.
Gadoxetic Acid–Enhanced Liver MRI
Authors: Ichikawa Shintaro , Goshima Satoshi
Published: May 2023

Since its introduction in the worldwide medical market, gadoxetic acid has attracted considerable interest. The year 2023 marks the 15th anniversary of the introduction of gadoxetic acid in Japan. Gadoxetic acid–enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (GA-MRI) is the predominantly performed contrast MRI examination for the liver. Its most essential characteristic, namely, the hepatobiliary phase, revolutionized the clinical management of liver disease. Gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI is currently the most efficient method for focal liver lesion detection and analysis. Meta-analyses demonstrated its excellent effectiveness for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver metastases. Owing to the extensive usage of gadoxetic acid, a hepatobiliary phase hypointense nodule without arterial phase hyperenhancement is well documented. The existence of such nodules may be a sign of hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma in nodules and other areas in the liver. Apart from its role in tumor identification and characterization, GA-MRI can help assess response to therapy and liver fibrosis. Therefore, it is proposed to use gadoxetic acid as the first option for MRI of the liver in the majority of patients. The efficacy of gadoxetic acid surpasses its disadvantages, rendering this contrast agent the preferred choice for routine MRI of the liver. The clinical use of GA-MRI is discussed in this review article.
Antiviral activity of salt-coated materials against SARS-CoV-2.
Authors: Coleman Christopher Michael , Wang Belinda , Wang Yixin , Tapia-Brito Emmanuel , Chen Ziwei , Riffat James , Riffat Saffa , Tarlinton Rachael , Ghaemmaghami Amir
Published: May 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic demonstrated the importance of human coronaviruses and the need to develop materials to prevent the spread of emergent viruses. Here we describe that simple salt coating on a range of surfaces can degrade SARS-CoV-2.
Cycloheximide-resistant Aspergillus candidus onychomycosis: an unusual case
Authors: Nachate Soumia , Elbazi Kenza , Douma Hajar , Amal Said , El Mezouari Mostafa , Moutaj Redouane
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Onychomycosis is a chronic, superficial fungal infection that affects the nails and is most frequently caused by dermatophytes. Onychomycosis due to Aspergillus spp. (A.) is rare. A. flavus, A. niger, and A. fumigatus are the most implicated of these non-dermatophyte molds. A. candidus is a very unusual opportunistic pathogen of the nails. Only a few cases have been previously published internationally, but neither was cycloheximide-resistant.
Case presentation: Here we report the first case of onychomycosis caused by cycloheximide-resistant A. candidus in a 63-year-old diabetic man. The diagnosis was made on the basis of a positive direct examination and pure cultures growing on Sabouraud's agar with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide on all inocula in three consecutive toenail samplings at one-week intervals.
Conclusion: Such clinical cases are important to be presented by medical mycology teams in order to maintain vigilance regarding the epidemiological trends, which evolve constantly.
Cellulomonas xiejunii sp. nov., Cellulomonas chengniuliangii sp. nov. and Cellulomonas wangsupingiae sp. nov., three cellulolytic bacteria isolated from intestinal contents of Marmota himalayana
Authors: Ye Lin , Zhang Gui , Pu Ji , Yang Caixin , Liu Yue , Xu Mingchao , Jin Dong , Lu Shan , Liu Liyun , Yang Jing , Xu Jianguo
Published: May 2023

Six facultative anaerobic, Gram-stain-positive, oxidase-negative, rod-shaped bacteria (strains zg-B89T, zg-B12, zg-Y338T, zg-Y138, zg-Y908T and zg-Y766), were isolated from the intestinal contents of Marmota himalayana in Qinghai Province, PR China. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that zg-B89T showed highest similarity to

Cellulomonas iranensis

NBRC 101100T (99.5 %), zg-Y338T to

Cellulomonas cellasea

DSM 20118T (98.7 %), and zg-Y908T to

Cellulomonas flavigena

DSM 20109T (99.0 %). Phylogenetic and phylogenomic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene and 881 core genes revealed that these six strains formed three separate clades in the genus

Cellulomonas

. Average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between these three novel species and all members of the genus

Cellulomonas

were below species thresholds (95–96 % for ANI and 70 % for dDDH). The DNA G+C contents of zg-B89T, zg-Y338T and zg-Y908T were 73.6, 72.9 and 74.5 %, respectively. Strains zg-B89T and zg-Y908T had anteiso-C15 : 0, C16 : 0 and anteiso-C15 : 1 A, and zg-Y338T had anteiso-C15 : 0, C16 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0 as the main fatty acids. All novel type strains had MK-9 (H4) as the predominant respiratory quinone, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylinositol mannoside as the major polar lipids, and rhamnose, ribose and glucose as the cell-wall sugars. The peptidoglycan amino acids of zg-B89T, zg-Y338T and zg-Y908T contained ornithine, alanine, glutamic acid and aspartic acid (except for zg-Y338T). Based on genotypic, phenotypic, phylogenetic and biochemical properties, the six uncharacterized strains represent three novel species in the genus

Cellulomonas

, for which the names Cellulomonas xiejunii sp. nov. (type strain zg-B89T=GDMCC 1.2821T=KCTC 49756T), Cellulomonas chengniuliangii sp. nov. (type strain zg-Y338T=GDMCC 1.2829T=KCTC 49754T) and Cellulomonas wangsupingiae sp. nov. (type strain zg-Y908T=GDMCC 1.2820T=KCTC 49755T) are proposed, respectively.
Unveiling Breast Cancer Risk Profiles: A Comprehensive Survival Clustering Analysis Empowered by an Online Web Application for Personalized Medicine
Authors: Gu Yuan , Wang Mingyue , Gong Yishu , Jiang Song , Li Chen , Zhang Dan
Published: May 2023

Online tools, such as web-based applications, aid medical doctors in recommending treatments and conducting thorough patient profile investigations. Prior studies have created web-based survival analysis tools for cancer survival. However, these often offer basic features and simplistic models, providing shallow data insights. Our research involves an in-depth risk profile analysis using survival clustering on real-world data. We’ve developed a user-friendly Shiny application to simplify the use of our findings. By utilizing survival clustering, we uncover distinct subgroups and unique risk profiles among breast cancer patients. Our online app empowers researchers and clinicians to explore and gain insights into breast cancer risk profiles, enhancing personalized medicine and clinical decision-making.
Ultra-rarede novodamaging coding variants are enriched in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and identify risk genes
Authors: Olfson Emily , Farhat Luis C. , Liu Wenzhong , Vitulano Lawrence A. , Zai Gwyneth , Lima Monicke O. , Parent Justin , Polanczyk Guilherme V. , Cappi Carolina , Kennedy James L. , Fernandez Thomas V.
Published: May 2023

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common and impairing neurodevelopmental disorder in which genetic factors play an important role. DNA sequencing of parent-child trios provides a powerful approach for identifyingde novo(spontaneous) variants, which has led to the discovery of hundreds of clinically informative risk genes for other neurodevelopmental disorders but has yet to be extensively leveraged in studying ADHD. Here, we conducted whole-exome DNA sequencing in 152 parent-child trios with ADHD and demonstrate for the first time a significant enrichment of rare and ultra-rarede novoprotein-truncating variants and missense variants predicted to be damaging in ADHD cases compared to unaffected controls. Combining these results with a large independent case-control DNA sequencing cohort (3,206 ADHD cases and 5,002 controls), we identifylysine demethylase 5B(KDM5B)as a high-confidence risk gene for ADHD as well as two likely risk genes. We estimate that 862 genes contribute to ADHD risk. Finally, using our list of genes harboring ultra-rarede novodamaging variants, we show that these genes overlap with previously reported risk genes for other neuropsychiatric conditions in both DNA sequencing and genome-wide association studies. We also show that these genes are enriched for several canonical biological pathways, suggesting early neurodevelopmental underpinnings of ADHD. Overall, this work provides critical new insight into the biology of ADHD and demonstrates the discovery potential of DNA sequencing in larger parent-child trio cohorts.

Significance statement

Given the important role of genetic factors in the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), research aimed at identifying risk genes can provide critical insight into underlying biological processes. We conducted whole-exome DNA sequencing in parent-child trios with ADHD, showing that these children have a significantly greater rate of rare and ultra-rarede novogene-damaging mutations compared to unaffected controls, expanding our understanding of the genetic landscape of ADHD. We then use this information to identifyKDM5Bas a high-confidence risk gene for ADHD and highlight several enriched biological pathways. This work advances our etiologic understanding of ADHD and illustrates a previously unexplored path for risk gene discovery in this common neurodevelopmental disorder.
Shipment Stress in Early Life Aggravates Disease Pathogenesis in Mice with Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis: Support for a Two-Hit Hypothesis of Multiple Sclerosis Etiology
Authors: Faraji Jamshid , Bettenson Dennis , Yong V. Wee , Metz Gerlinde A. S.
Published: May 2023

Visual impairments are one of the earliest diagnosed symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). The onset and progression of vision loss in MS may be influenced by cumulative psychophysiological stress. Here, we used a two-hit model of stress in female mice to determine if early life stress (ELS) influences the clinical severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) later in life. We hypothesized that ELS caused by animal transportation during early postnatal development represents a co-factor which can exacerbate the disease severity of EAE. Adult EAE mice with ELS displayed more severe clinical signs and delayed recovery compared to non-stressed EAE mice. ELS also diminished visual acuity measured by optokinetic responses, locomotion and exploratory behaviours in EAE mice. Notably, ELS caused earlier onset of visual impairments in EAE. Exacerbated functional impairments in stressed EAE mice were highly correlated with circulating corticosterone levels. The findings show that the progression of induced EAE (second hit) in adulthood can be significantly impacted by adverse early life experiences (first hit). The observations emphasize the importance of comprehensive behavioural testing, including non-motor functions, to enhance the translational value of preclinical animal models of MS. Moreover, shipment stress of laboratory animals should be considered a necessary variable in preclinical MS research. The consideration of cumulative lifetime stresses provides a new perspective of MS pathogenesis within a personalized medicine framework.
Phenotypic defects from the expression of wild-type and pathogenic TATA-Binding Proteins in newDrosophilamodels of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17
Authors: Patel Nikhil , Alam Nadir , Libohova Kozeta , Dulay Ryan , Todi Sokol V. , Sujkowski Alyson
Published: May 2023

Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 17 (SCA17) is the most recently identified member of the polyglutamine (polyQ) family of disorders, resulting from abnormal CAG/CAA expansion of TATA box binding protein (TBP), an initiation factor essential for of all eukaryotic transcription. A largely autosomal dominant inherited disease, SCA17 is unique in both its heterogeneous clinical presentation and low incidence of genetic anticipation, the phenomenon in which subsequent generations inherit longer polyQ expansions that yield earlier and more severe symptom onset. Like other polyQ disease family members, SCA17 patients experience progressive ataxia and dementia, and treatments are limited to preventing symptoms and increasing quality of life. Here, we report two newDrosophilamodels that express human TBP with polyQ repeats in either wild-type or SCA17 patient range. We find that TBP expression has age- and tissue-specific effects on neurodegeneration, with polyQ expanded SCA17 protein expression generally having more severe effects. In addition, SCA17 model flies accumulate more aggregation prone TBP, with a greater proportion localizing to the nucleus. These new lines provide a new resource for the biochemical characterization of SCA17 pathology and the future identification of therapeutic targets.
The Effect of Postnatal Care on the Postpartum Contraceptive Use in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Yemane Tesfalem Tilahun , Mera Mengestu , Kassa Abebe , Tadesse Nigusie
Published: May 2023

Background

Postpartum contraceptive use is an essential aspect of maternal and child health. The use of contraception after childbirth is a critical step in ensuring healthy spacing between births, reducing maternal and infant mortality. However, it is often observed that the use of postpartum contraception is low. In this context, postnatal care (PNC) visits are an important opportunity to promote postpartum contraceptive use. Therefore, the aim of this review is to examine the effect of postnatal visits on the utilization of postpartum contraceptive use.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of published and unpublished studies. Pub Med, HINARI, Science direct, Cochrane Library, ETH Library and Google Scholar were used to search all articles. For data analysis, STATA 14 software was used. Funnel plots and Egger’s test were used to examine the risk of publication bias. Heterogeneity was checked by using Cochran’s-Q test and I2test. Random effect model was computed to estimate the pooled prevalence.

Results

The finding of the present systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that having postnatal care visits increase the utilization of postpartum modern contraceptive [pooled effect size 2.92 (95% CI, 2.21, 3.881)]. Postnatal care can provide critical information and support to women during the postpartum period, including information about family planning and contraceptive options.

Conclusion

The utilization of postpartum contraception is a critical aspect of maternal and child health. Postnatal care visits provide an opportunity to promote postpartum contraceptive use. During these visits, healthcare providers can provide information on the available contraceptive methods, counsel women on the benefits and risks of each method, and assist in the selection of a suitable method.

PROSPERO Registration Number

CRD42020156574
Fgf10mutant newts can regenerate normal limbs despite severe developmental hindlimb defects
Authors: Suzuki Miyuki , Okumura Akinori , Shibata Yuki , Endo Tetsuya , Teramoto Machiko , Chihara Akane , Agata Kiyokazu , Bronner Marianne E. , Suzuki Ken-ichi T.
Published: May 2023

In the amniote limb, FGF10 is essential for limb bud initiation and outgrowth. However, whether this function is broadly conserved in tetrapods and/or involved in adult limb regeneration remains unknown. To tackle this question, we established anFgf10null mutant line in the newtPleurodeles waltlwhich have amazing regenerative ability. WhileFgf10mutant forelimbs develop normally, the hindlimbs exhibit severe digit reduction, fail to ossify the zeugopod, and downregulate FGF target genes likeSall1, Runx1andHoxa11/d11. Despite these developmental defects,Fgf10mutants were able to regenerate near-normal hindlimbs. Together, our results suggest an important role forFgf10in hindlimb digit formation and zeugopod ossification during development, but little or no function in regeneration, suggesting that different mechanisms operate during limb regeneration versus development.
Overexpression of an apple broad range agglutinating lectin does not promotein plantaresistance to fire blight and bacterial wilt
Authors: Bodelot Antoine , Chavonet Erwan , Brisset Marie Noelle , Dousset Nicolas , Ravon Elisa , Heintz Christelle , Berthomé Richard , Zaffuto Matilda , Kempf Marie , Foulon Mélanie , Marion Estelle , Vergne Emilie , Degrave Alexandre
Published: May 2023

Lectins, a large group of proteins present in all kingdoms of life can bind reversibly to glycans. The roles of plant lectins are diverse and include resistance to biotic or abiotic stress, notably bacterial resistance. A gene family encoding amaranthin-like lectins termed MdAGGs in apple (Malus domestica) has been identified to be overexpressed upon treatment with the plant resistance inducer acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) which promotes enhanced resistance to the fire blight disease caused byErwinia amylovora(Ea). In this study, we first screened the ability of purified MdAGG10 to agglutinate bacterial cellsin vitroamong a range of bacterial species. Several bacterial species, either Gram positive or negative, either plant- or human-pathogens were found to be agglutinated by MdAGG10 in acidic conditions. Apple and Arabidopsis lines constitutively overexpressingMdAGG10were generated and evaluated for their resistance to, respectively,EaandRalstonia solanacearum, both plant pathogens that were found in our screening. Despite MdAGG10 protein accumulated in tissues of both apple and Arabidopsis lines, they remained susceptible to their respective pathogens. Interestingly,in vitroagglutination ofEaby MdAGG10 did not impair bacterial growth, suggesting that other plant molecules are involved in the resistance to fire blight triggered after an ASM treatment.
The Duality of Adiponectin and the Role of Sex in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Cullen Abigail E. , Centner Ann Marie , Deitado Riley , Ukhanov Vladimir , Ismaeel Ahmed , Koutakis Panagiotis , Delp Judy , Salazar Gloria
Published: May 2023

Adiponectin, a hormone highly abundant in circulation, has many beneficial effects in atherosclerosis; however, gene deficiency of this hormone or its receptor have shown detrimental effects on plaque burden in mice. Our objective was to understand the role of sex and aging in the effects of adiponectin deficiency on plaque content, inflammation, and the mechanisms regulating the phenotype ofadipoq-/-vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Even a 50% reduction in the expression of adiponectin led to a plaque reduction in males and an increase in females, compared withapoe-/-controls. Plaque reduction may be attributable to chemokines upregulated in males and downregulated in females. Changes in plaque were not attributed to changes in cholesterol or cardiovascular disease (CVD) markers. In old mice, both genotypes and sexes accumulated more plaque thanapoe-/-. RNA sequencing of VSMCs from male mice in vitro uncovered a critical role for adiponectin in AKT signaling, regulation of the extracellular matrix, and TGF-β signaling. Upregulation of AKT activity mediated proliferation and migration ofadipoq-/-cells. Activation of AMPK with metformin or AdipoRon reduced AKT-dependent proliferation and migration ofadipoq-/-cells but did not improve the expression of contractile genes. Anti-atherogenic mechanisms targeted the ECM inadipoq-/-cells, downregulating MMP2 and 9 and upregulating decorin.

Our study uncovered sex and age-dependent effects of adiponectin deficiency in atherosclerosis.