bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pectoralis Major Tendon Rupture in a Spastic Hemiplegic Shoulder
Authors: Zainudin Muhamad Faizal , Cha Mei Yee , Aziz Ahmad Fuad Ab
Published: May 2024

Pectoralis major injuries are uncommon, typically affecting young male athletes engaging in high-intensity activities like weightlifting. A 62-yr-old man, who previously suffered a stroke leading to left hemiparesis, hemisensory loss, and spasticity, exhibited a left chest swelling during a rehabilitation clinic visit. Subsequent inquiries revealed his recent incorporation of a home-based pulley system for stretching exercises. On examination, the swelling was diffuse, firm, and nontender, located at the midclavicular line of his left chest, with a positive dropped nipple sign and loss of the left anterior axillary fold sign. An ultrasound confirmed a low-grade injury to the left pectoralis major tendon. Spastic muscle ruptures are extremely rare, with only three published reports linked to traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury. Spasticity increases muscle vulnerability due to structural and mechanical changes to the skeletal muscles. This is the first report of a spastic pectoralis major tendon rupture and the first after a stroke. This case highlights the need for optimized multimodal spasticity management and reinforces the importance of comprehensive patient education on the safe execution of home-based stretching exercises.
Prospective Bidirectional Relationship Between Sleep Duration and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms After Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Cornelius Talea , Edmondson Donald , Abdalla Marwah , Scott Allie , Fernandez Sedano Brandon , Hiti David , Sullivan Alexandra M. , Schwartz Joseph E. , Kronish Ian M. , Shechter Ari
Published: May 2024

Objective

Sleep disturbance is a “hallmark” symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Poor sleep (including short sleep) after combat-related trauma can also predict subsequent PTSD. Less is known about the association between sleep duration and PTSD symptoms when PTSD is induced by acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We examined the bidirectional relationship between sleep duration and PTSD symptoms over the year after hospital evaluation for ACS.

Methods

Participants were enrolled in this observational study after emergency department evaluation for ACS. Sleep duration (“During the past month, how many hours of actual sleep did you get at night?”) and cardiac event or hospitalization-induced PTSD symptoms (PTSD Checklist) were assessed at 1, 6, and 12 months after hospital discharge. Cross-lagged path analysis was used to model the effects of sleep duration and PTSD symptoms on each other. Covariates included age, sex, race/ethnicity, cardiac severity, baseline depression symptoms, and early acute stress disorder symptoms.

Results

The sample included 1145 participants; 16% screened positive for probable PTSD (PTSD Checklist score ≥33). Mean sleep duration across time points was 6.1 hours. Higher PTSD symptoms predicted shorter sleep duration at the next time point (i.e., 1–6 and 6–12 months; B = −0.14 hours/10-point difference, SE = 0.03, p < .001). Shorter sleep duration was associated with higher PTSD symptoms at the next time point (B = −0.25 points/hour, SE = 0.12, p = .04).

Conclusions

Short sleep duration and PTSD symptoms are mutually reinforcing across the first year after ACS evaluation. Findings suggest that sleep, PTSD symptoms, and their relationship should be considered in the post-ACS period.
Associations of CD4 Cell Count Measures With Infection-Related and Infection-Unrelated Cancer Risk Among People With HIV
Authors: Nicolau Ioana A. , Moineddin Rahim , Brooks Jennifer D. , Antoniou Tony , Gillis Jennifer L. , Kendall Claire E. , Cooper Curtis , Cotterchio Michelle , Salters Kate , Smieja Marek , Kroch Abigail E. , Price Colleen , Mohamed Anthony , Burchell Ann N.
Published: May 2024

Background:

People with HIV are at higher risk of infection-related cancers than the general population, which could be due, in part, to immune dysfunction. Our objective was to examine associations between 4 CD4 count measures as indicators of immune function and infection-related and infection-unrelated cancer risk.

Setting:

We conducted a cohort study of adults with HIV who were diagnosed with cancer in Ontario, Canada. Incident cancers were identified from January 1, 1997 to December 31, 2020.

Methods:

We estimated adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) for the associations between CD4 measures (baseline CD4, nadir CD4, time-updated CD4, time-updated CD4:CD8) and cancer incidence rates using competing risk analyses, adjusted for socio-demographic factors, history of hepatitis B or C infection, baseline viral load, smoking, and alcohol use.

Results:

Among 4771 people with HIV, contributing 59,111 person-years of observation, a total of 549 cancers were observed. Low baseline CD4 (<200 cells/µL) (aHR 2.08 [95% CI: 1.38 to 3.13], nadir (<200 cells/µL) (aHR 2.01 [95% CI: 1.49 to 2.71]), low time-updated CD4 (aHR 3.52 [95% CI: 2.36 to 5.24]) and time-updated CD4:CD8 ratio (<0.4) (aHR 2.02 [95% CI: 1.08 to 3.79]) were associated with an increased rate of infection-related cancer. No associations were observed for infection-unrelated cancers.

Conclusions:

Low CD4 counts and indices were associated with increased rates of infection-related cancers among people with HIV, irrespective of the CD4 measure used. Early diagnosis and linkage to care and high antiretroviral therapy uptake may lead to improved immune function and could add to cancer prevention strategies such as screening and vaccine uptake.
Provocative Findings From a Transdiagnostic Counseling Intervention to Improve Psychiatric Comorbidity and HIV Care Engagement Among People With HIV: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Pence Brian W. , Darnell Doyanne , Ranna-Stewart Minu , Psaros Christina , Gaynes Bradley N. , Grimes LaKendra , Henderson Savannah , Parman Mariel , Filipowicz Teresa R. , Gaddis Kathy , Dorsey Shannon , Mugavero Michael J.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and alcohol/substance use disorders are prevalent among people with HIV (PWH), commonly co-occur, and predict worse HIV care outcomes. Transdiagnostic counseling approaches simultaneously address multiple co-occurring mental health disorders.

Methods:

We conducted a pilot individually randomized trial of the Common Elements Treatment Approach adapted for people with HIV (CETA-PWH), a transdiagnostic counseling intervention, compared with usual care at a large academic medical center in the southern United States. Participants were adults with HIV; at risk for HIV care disengagement; and with elevated symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and/or alcohol/substance use. Mental health and HIV care engagement were assessed at 4 and 9 months.

Results:

Among participants (n = 60), follow-up was high at 4 (92%) and 9 (85%) months. Intervention engagement was challenging: 93% attended ≥1 session, 43% attended ≥6 sessions in 3 months (“moderate dose”), and 30% completed treatment. Although not powered for effectiveness, mental health outcomes and HIV appointment attendance improved in CETA-PWH relative to usual care in intent-to-treat analyses; those receiving a moderate dose and completers showed progressively greater improvement. Viral load showed small differences between arms. The dose–response pattern was not explained by differences between those who did and did not complete treatment.

Conclusions:

This pilot trial provides preliminary evidence for the potential of CETA-PWH to simultaneously address co-occurring mental health comorbidities and support HIV appointment attendance among PWH. Additional strategies may be an important part of ensuring that clients can engage in the full course of treatment and realize its full benefits.
Rate of Benign and Malignant Secondary Tumors Associated With Nevus Sebaceous
Authors: Pang Siyuan , Cevik Jevan , Sreedharan Sadhishaan , Wilks Daniel J.
Published: May 2024

Background

Nevus sebaceous (NS) is a rare congenital skin lesion affecting approximately 0.3% of all newborns. Although benign, NS lesions can harbor malignant secondary tumors. The published rate of development of these malignant tumors varies. This meta-analysis aimed to identify the rate of malignant and benign secondary neoplasms occurring in NS.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from inception to April 2023. Eligible studies reported incidence or risk of secondary neoplasms in patients with NS. Two independent reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed the quality of included studies. The primary outcome was the pooled incidence of secondary neoplasms. Studies with sample sizes greater than 50 patients were eligible for meta-analysis using the random-effects model.

Results

Twenty-eight studies were identified, 22 of which were eligible for meta-analysis. The overall rate of secondary neoplasms was 12.8% (95% confidence interval [Cl], 9.2%–17.6%). The rates of development of malignant and benign tumors were 2.4% (95% CI, 1.4%–4.1%) and 10.3% (95% CI, 7.5%–13.9%), respectively. The rate of development of basal cell carcinoma was 1.7% (95% CI, 0.9%–3.2%), whereas the rate of the development of syringocystadenoma papilliferum was 3.6% (95% CI, 2.5%–5.3%) and that if trichoblastoma was 2.6% (95% CI, 1.7%–3.8%).

Conclusions

Although the rate of development of malignant tumors within a primary NS lesion is low, it is not negligible. Prophylactic early excision remains a viable approach to prevent secondary malignant neoplasms, address cosmetic and functional complications, and preempt the need for complex reconstruction in the future. We propose that resection of NS lesions in childhood remains a reasonable first-line option in the appropriate patient keeping in mind that it may leave an undesirable scar.
Posterior Vault Distraction in the Acute Setting
Authors: Sink Matthew C. , Galarza Laura I. , Weaver Kristin J. , Shiflett James M. , Humphries Laura S. , Hoppe Ian C.
Published: May 2024

Posterior vault distraction osteogenesis (PVDO) has been shown to resolve acute intracranial hypertension (AIH) while carrying an acceptable perioperative morbidity profile. PVDO has been associated with symptomatic improvement and fewer surgeries in those requiring ventriculoperitoneal shunts. The authors' experience using PVDO as an acute intervention is presented, demonstrating its safety and efficacy for management of AIH. Four cases of children with craniosynostosis that underwent PVDO in the acute setting are outlined. All patients presented with papilledema and symptoms of AIH. One patient with slit ventricle syndrome (SVS) presented with a nonfunctioning shunt following multiple shunt revisions. No intraoperative complications during distractor placement or removal were reported. Distraction protocol for all patients began on postoperative day 1 at 1–2 mm per day, resulting in an average total distraction of 30.25 mm. For the 3 cases with no shunt, the average length of stay was 7 days. As part of the planned treatment course, the patient with SVS required externalization of the shunt during distraction followed by early distractor removal and planned shunt replacement. One case of surgical site infection (in an immunocompromised patient) required premature distractor removal during the consolidation period. Computed tomography (CT) in all patients indicated increased intracranial volume following distraction, and symptomatic improvement was reported. Six-month follow-up showed resolution of papilledema in all patients. The authors' experience using PVDO in the acute setting is reported, alongside a review of current literature, in order to provide supporting evidence for the efficacy of PVDO as a tool for resolving AIH.
Resident Salary Compared With Living Wages at US Training Institutions
Authors: Liles Campbell , Tang Alan R. , Petrovic Mark , Dambrino Robert J. , Thompson Reid C. , Chambless Lola B.
Published: May 2024

Objective:

To compare living wages and salaries at US residency programs.

Background:

It is unknown how resident salary compares to living wages across the United States.

Methods:

Cross-sectional analysis of publicly available resident salary affordability from training centers with postgraduate year (PGY)-1 through PGY-7 resident compensation for 2022-2023 was compared with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Living-Wage Calculator. Resident salary-to-living wage ratios were calculated using PGY-4 salary for each family composition. Univariate and multivariable analysis of PGY-4 salary affordability was performed, accounting for the proportion of expected living wages to taxes, transportation, housing, health care, childcare, and food, as well as unionization and state income tax.

Results:

One hundred eighteen residency programs, representing over 60% of US trainees, were included, 20 (17%) of which were unionized. Single-parent families were unable to earn a living wage until PGY-7. Residents with 1 child in 2-adult (single-income) and 2-adult (dual-income) families earn below living wages until PGY-5 and PGY-3, respectively. Residents with more than 1 child never earn a living wage. Multivariable regression analysis using PGY-4 salary: living wage ratios in single-child, 2-parent homes showed food expense and unionization status were consistent predictors of affordability. Unionization was associated with lower affordability prestipend, almost equivalent affordability poststipend, and lower affordability poststipend and union dues.

Conclusions:

Resident salaries often preclude residents with children from earning a living wage. Unionization is not associated with increased resident affordability in this cross-sectional analysis. All annual reimbursement data should be centrally compiled, and additional stipends should be considered for residents with children.
Social Vulnerability Index and Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Fakas Steliana , Silvestri Jessica , Alvarez Alejandro , Demertzis Kristen , Blitz Matthew J. , O’Shaughnessy Danielle
Published: May 2024

Importance/Study Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine whether the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) is associated with the type of surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) focusing on sacrocolpopexy (SCP) and uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS).

Study Design

This was a retrospective case-control study that included patients from 8 hospitals within a large academic health system in New York between January 1, 2018 and January 1, 2023. All patients 15–85 years of age with a preoperative diagnosis of POP who underwent a hysterectomy with an SCP or USLS were included. Home addresses were linked to census tracts and SVI scores. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association between SVI quartiles and POP surgical management (SCP vs USLS).

Results

Six hundred one patients who underwent reconstructive surgery for POP were included in the study. The Social Vulnerability Index was not statistically significantly associated with POP surgical management (P = 0.26). After adjusting for potential confounders, there continued to be no association between SVI and POP management (P = 0.40). The adjusted model illustrated that age 65 years or greater was associated with decreased odds (adjusted odds ratio, 0.24; 95% confidence interval, 0.14–0.40) of SCP (P < 0.0001), whereas patients with hypertension were found to be at increased odds (adjusted odds ratio, 2.60; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–6.71).

Conclusions

There was no statistically significant association between SVI and POP surgical management for SCP versus USLS. However, advanced patient age (65 years and greater) was associated with decreased odds, and hypertension was associated with greater odds of SCP.
Comparing Postoperative Urinary Retention Rates Between Robotic Apical Prolapse Repairs
Authors: Khin Kaythi , Adair Shaun T. , Dhariwal Laura , Wasenda Erika , Leong Ellie , Chiu Stephanie , Botros Carolyn
Published: May 2024

Importance

Understanding the risk of urinary retention with different prolapse repair surgical procedures is important for perioperative counseling.

Objective

The study compared postoperative urinary retention rates between robotic sacrocolpopexy and robotic uterosacral ligament suspension.

Study Design

This institutional review board-exempt retrospective cohort study compared patients who underwent pelvic organ prolapse repair with robotic sacrocolpopexy (RSCP) and robotic uterosacral ligament suspension (RUSLS) between June 2018 and March 2022. Our primary outcome was the rate of acute postoperative urinary retention (POUR) in these groups. Secondary outcomes were the number of days needed to resolve urinary retention and persistent voiding dysfunction.

Results

Out of 298 patients, 258 underwent RSCP and 40 underwent RUSLS. Acute POUR was found in 73 patients (24%): 46 patients (18%) in the RSCP group versus 26 patients (65%) in the RUSLS group (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated a significantly higher rate of acute POUR after RUSLS (odds ratio [OR] = 17.92, confidence interval [CI] = 3.06–104.86; P = 0.001). Patients with an elevated preoperative postvoid residual volume >100 mL or concomitant midurethral sling were more likely to develop POUR (OR = 2.93, CI = 1.43–5.98; P = 0.003 and OR = 2.19, CI = 1.16–4.14; P = 0.016, respectively). While patients with higher parity were less likely to have urinary retention (OR = 0.71, CI = 0.53–0.96; P = 0.024), age, body mass index, prolapse stage, and concurrent posterior repair did not affect the urinary retention rate significantly. The number of days needed to resolve POUR and persistent voiding dysfunction were similar.

Conclusions

Acute POUR appears more likely to develop after RUSLS compared to RSCP. Elevated preoperative postvoid residual volume and concomitant midurethral sling surgery independently increase the risk of POUR.
Gradually tapering off antipsychotics: lessons for practice from case studies and neurobiological principles
Authors: Horowitz Mark A. , Moncrieff Joanna
Published: May 2024

Purpose of review

There has been an increasing focus on deprescribing in psychiatry recently, particularly of antipsychotic medication, with recognition that not all patients with psychotic disorders require lifelong medication. We summarize some empirical and theoretical papers, and examine case studies to provide instruction on this topic.

Recent findings

Recent studies have found that slower tapering (over months or longer) of antipsychotics is associated with a lower relapse rate than quicker tapering (weeks). Case studies presented suggest that the process of reduction is associated with the precipitation or exacerbation of psychotic symptoms and that a slower process of reduction may minimize this effect. This may be because faster reductions cause greater disruption of homeostatic equilibria, provoking psychotic symptoms either as direct withdrawal symptoms or consequences of nonpsychotic withdrawal symptoms (e.g. insomnia) – although not all patients will experience withdrawal symptoms. This suggests that smaller dose reductions, especially at lower doses, made very gradually, may minimize the risk of psychotic symptoms.

Slower tapering of antipsychotics may provide time for adaptations made to the presence of the medications to resolve, thus reducing the disruption to homeostatic equilibrium caused by dose reduction, potentially reducing the risk of relapse. Exacerbation of psychotic symptoms on antipsychotic reduction may not represent evidence of the need for a higher dose of antipsychotic on a long-term basis but may indicate the need for more gradual reduction. Gradual reduction of antipsychotics, especially after long-term use in clinical practice is prudent.
Sequence and origin of the Streptomyces intergenetic-conjugation helper plasmid pUZ8002.
Authors: Larcombe Daniel E , Braes Robyn E , Croxford James T , Wilson James W , Figurski David H , Hoskisson Paul A
Published: May 2024

Conjugation of plasmids from Escherichia coli is essential for the genetic manipulation of Streptomyces spp. To facilitate intergeneric conjugation from E. coli to Streptomyces the conjugative machinery required for genetic transfer is usually provided by the non-transferable helper plasmid, pUZ8002. Here we present the complete nucleotide sequence of pUZ8002, describe the previously undocumented creation process, and provide details of the sequence relative to the parental pUZ8 plasmid and another previously published pUZ8002 sequence.
Spectrum of Respiratory Viruses Identified from SARS-CoV-2 Negative Specimens in Watansoppeng, a Bat City in Eastern Indonesia
Authors: Idris Irfan , Wahid Isra , Antonjaya Ungke , Johar Edison , Kleib Fiqry Hasan , Sriyani Ida Yus , Dewantari Aghnianditya Kresno , . Oderna , . Mustakim , . Fatmawati , Yudhaputri Frilasita Aisyah , Syafruddin Din , Myint Khin Saw Aye
Published: May 2024

Respiratory infections account for millions of hospital admissions worldwide. Understanding the etiology could aid management and preventive strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality. Bats are reported as one of the animal reservoirs for many emerging respiratory viruses. SARS-CoV-2 negative specimens from Wattansoppeng city, South Sulawesi, a natural habitat for Acerodon celebensis and Pteropus alecto fruit bats were analyzed to study the spectrum of respiratory viruses. Samples were screened for influenza virus, Enterovirus, Paramyxoviridae, Nipah virus, Coronaviridae, and Pneumoviridae. Of 210 specimens, 19 were positive for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)-A, RSV-B, human parainfluenza (HPIV)-1 virus, HPIV-2, human rhinovirus (HRV)-A, HRV-B, HRV-C, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), influenza A virus, and CV-A6. Influenza virus was of seasonal H3N2 subtype. The HMPVs were of genotype B1 and A2a, while one of the RSV-A was ON-1 genotype. The viruses mostly affected children with unknown severity. No novel viruses were observed in this study.
Parasedimentitalea denitrificans sp. nov., a novel denitrifying bacteria isolated from the Yellow Sea and transfer of Zongyanglinia huanghaiensis and Zongyanglinia marina to the genus Parasedimentitalea as Parasedimentitalea huanghaiensis comb. nov. and Parasedimentitalea maritima nom. nov.
Authors: Shi Caixing , He Mengdan , Xue Qingjie , Wang Chuangong , Liu Ang
Published: May 2024

A Gram-stain-negative and rod-shaped bacterium, designated strain CY04T, was isolated from a sediment sample collected from the Yellow Sea. CY04T exhibited the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 98.7 % to Zongyanglinia huanghaiensis CY05T, followed by the similarities of 98.6 %, 98.0 and 98.0 % to Zongyanglinia marina DSW4-44T, Parasedimentitalea marina W43T and Parasedimentitalea psychrophila QS115T respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene and phylogenomic analysis based on genome sequences revealed that CY04T formed a robust cluster with Z. huanghaiensis CY05T, Z. marina DSW4-44T, P. marina W43T and P. psychrophila QS115T. Calculated digital DNA–DNA hybridisation and average nucleotide identity values between CY04T and its closely related species were 22.2–23.7 % and 79.0–81.2 % respectively. Cells of CY04T were strictly aerobic, non-motile and positive for catalase, oxidase and denitrification. CY04T harboured a set of genes encoding the enzymes involved in denitrification. Growth occurred at 10–30 °C (optimum, 20 °C), at pH 6.5–9.5 (optimum, pH 8.0) and with 1–6 % (w/v) (optimum, 2.5 %,) NaCl. The major component of the fatty acids was summed feature 8 (C18 : 1ω7c and/or C18 : 1ω6c). The isoprenoid quinone was Q-10. Results of the phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular study indicate that strain CY04T represents a novel species of the genus Parasedimentitalea, for which the name Parasedimentitalea denitrificans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CY04T (=MCCC 1K08635T=KCTC 62199T). It is also proposed that Zongyanglinia huanghaiensis and Zongyanglinia marina should be reclassified as Parasedimentitalea huanghaiensis comb. nov. and Parasedimentitalea maritima nom. nov. An emended description of the genus Parasedimentitalea is also proposed.
Shewanella phaeophyticola sp. nov. and Vibrio algarum sp. nov., isolated from marine brown algae
Authors: Butt Mahrukh , Jung Jaejoon , Kim Jeong Min , Bayburt Hülya , Han Dong Min , Jeon Che Ok
Published: May 2024

Two Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped bacteria, designated as strains KJ10-1T and KJ40-1T, were isolated from marine brown algae. Both strains were catalase-positive, oxidase-positive, and facultative aerobic. Strain KJ10-1T exhibited optimal growth at 25 °C, pH 7.0, and 3 % NaCl, whereas strain KJ40-1T showed optimal growth at 25 °C, pH 7.0, and 2 % NaCl. The respiratory quinones of strain KJ10-1T were ubiquinone-8, ubiquinone-7, menaquinone-7, and methylated menaquinone-7, while the respiratory quinone of strain KJ40-1T was only ubiquinone-8. As major fatty acids, strain KJ10-1T contained C16 : 0, C17 : 1 ω8c, iso-C15 : 0, and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
 ω7c and/or C16 : 1
 ω6c) and strain KJ40-1T contained C16 : 0 and summed features 3 and 8 (C18 : 1
 ω7c and/or C18 : 1
 ω6c). The major polar lipids in strain KJ10-1T were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, and an unidentified aminolipid, whereas those in strain KJ40-1T were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, and diphosphatidylglycerol. The DNA G+C contents of strains KJ10-1T and KJ40-1T were 42.1 and 40.8 mol%, respectively. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, strains KJ10-1T and KJ40-1T exhibited the closest relatedness to Shewanella saliphila MMS16-UL250T (98.6 %) and Vibrio rumoiensis S-1T (95.4 %), respectively. Phylogenetic analyses, based on both 16S rRNA and 92 housekeeping genes, showed that the strains formed distinct phylogenic lineages within the genera Shewanella and Vibrio. Digital DNA–DNA hybridization and orthologous average nucleotide identity values between strain KJ10-1T and other Shewanella species, as well as between strain KJ40-1T and other Vibrio species, were below the thresholds commonly accepted for prokaryotic species delineation. Based on the phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, and phylogenetic data, strains KJ10-1T and KJ40-1T represent novel species of the genera Shewanella and Vibrio, respectively, for which the names Shewanella phaeophyticola sp. nov. and Vibrio algarum sp. nov. are proposed, respectively. The type strains of S. phaeophyticola and V. algarum are KJ10-1T (=KACC 22589T=JCM 35409T) and KJ40-1T (=KACC 22588T=JCM 35410T), respectively.
Description of an anaerobic actinobacterium, Kribbibacterium absianum gen. nov., sp. nov., a new member of the novel family Kribbibacteriaceae fam. nov., and reclassification of the genera Granulimonas and Leptogranulimonas
Authors: Bai Lu , Paek Jayoung , Shin Yeseul , Kim Hongik , Kim Si Hyun , Shin Jeong Hwan , Kook Joong-Ki , Chang Young-Hyo
Published: May 2024

Two rod-shaped, obligate anaerobic, Gram-stain-positive bacteria isolated from the pig faeces were designated YH-ols2216 and YH-ols2217T. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that these isolates were most related to the members of the family Atopobiaceae, within the order Coriobacteriales, and Granulimonas faecalis KCTC 25474T with 92.0 and 92.5% similarities, respectively. The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity within isolates was 99.9 %; and those between isolates YH-ols2216 and YH-ols2217T, and Atopobium minutum DSM 20586T, the type species of the type genus Atopobium within the family Atopobiaceae, were 88.5 and 88.7 %, respectively. Those between isolates and Coriobacterium glomerans PW2T, the type species of the type genus Coriobacterium within the family Coriobacteriaceae, were 88.7 and 89.1 %, respectively. The multi-locus sequence tree revealed that the isolates, alongside the genera Granulimonas and Leptogranulimonas, formed a distinct cluster between the families Atopobiaceae and Coriobacteriaceae. The average nucleotide identities and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values for the isolates and their most closely related strains ranged from 67.7 to 76.2 % and from 18.4 to 23.3 %, respectively. The main cellular fatty acids of the isolates were C18 : 0 DMA, C18 : 1
 ω9c, C18 : 0 12OH, C18 : 0, and C16 : 0. The cell wall contained the peptidoglycan meso-diaminopimelic acid. Lactate was the main end-product of the isolates. The major polar lipids of isolate YH-ols2217T were aminophospholipid, aminolipids, and lipids. Menaquinones were not identified in the cells of the isolates. The DNA G+C contents of isolates YH-ols2216 and YH-ols2217T were 67.5 and 67.6 mol%, respectively. Considering these chemotaxonomic, phenotypic, and phylogenetic properties, Kribbibacteriaceae fam. nov. is proposed within the order Coriobacteriales. YH-ols2216 (=KCTC 25708=NBRC 116429) and YH-ols2217T (=KCTC 25709T=NBRC 116430T) represent a novel taxon within this new family and the name Kribbibacterium absianum gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. In addition, the genera Granulimonas and Leptogranulimonas are transferred to the family Kribbibacteriaceae fam. nov.
Intestinal epigenomic alterations are associated with a dysregulated nutrient absorption phenotype in obesity
Authors: Badurdeen Dilhana S. , Li Zhen , Lee Jeong-Heon , Ma Tao , Bhagwate Aditya Vijay , Latanich Rachel , Dogiparthi Arjit , Ordog Tamas , Kovbasnjuk Olga , Kumbhari Vivek , Foulke-Abel Jennifer
Published: May 2024

Obesity is an epidemic with myriad health effects, but little is understood regarding individual obese phenotypes and how they may respond to therapy. Epigenetic changes associated with obesity have been detected in blood, liver, pancreas, and adipose tissues. Previous work found that dietary glucose hyperabsorption occurs in some obese subjects, but detailed transcriptional or epigenomic features of the intestine associated with this phenotype are unknown. This study evaluated differentially expressed genes and relative chromatin accessibility in intestinal organoids established from donors classified as lean, obese, or obese hyperabsorptive by body mass index and glucose transport assays. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that obese hyperabsorptive subjects have significantly upregulated dietary nutrient absorption proteins and downregulated type I interferon targets. Chromatin accessibility and transcription factor footprinting suggested that enhanced binding of HNF4G promotes the obese hyperabsorption phenotype. Quantitative PCR assessment in a larger subject cohort suggested that intestinal epithelial expression of CUBN, GIP, and SLC2A5 have high correlation with hyperabsorption. The obese hyperabsorption phenotype is characterized by transcriptional changes that support increased nutrient uptake and may be driven by differentially accessible chromatin. Recognizing unique intestinal phenotypes in obesity provides new perspective in considering therapeutic targets and options to manage the disease.
Post-translational Modification of α-Synuclein Modifies Monomer Dynamics and Aggregation Kinetics
Authors: Gamage Kasun , Wang Binyou , Hard Eldon R , Van Thong , Galesic Ana , Phillips George R , Pratt Matthew , Lapidus Lisa J.
Published: May 2024

The intrinsically disordered protein α-Synuclein is identified as a major toxic aggregate in Parkinson’s as well as several other neurodegenerative diseases. Recent work on this protein has focused on the effects of posttranslational modifications on aggregation kinetics. Among these, O-GlcNAcylation of α-Synuclein has been observed to inhibit the aggregation propensity of the protein. Here we investigate the monomer dynamics of two O-GlcNAcylated α-Synucleins, α-Syn(gT72) and α-Syn(gS87) and correlate them with the aggregation kinetics. We find that, compared to the unmodified protein, glycosylation at T72 makes the protein less compact and more diffusive while glycosylation at S87 makes the protein more compact and less diffusive. Based on a model of the earliest steps in aggregation, we predict that T72 should aggregate slower than unmodified protein, which is confirmed by ThT fluorescence measurements. In contrast, S87 should aggregate faster, which is not mirrored in ThT kinetics of later fibril formation but does not rule out a higher rate of formation of small oligomers. Together, these results show that posttranslational modifications do not uniformly affect aggregation propensity.
Persistent effects of repeated adolescent and adult heroin vapor inhalation in female Wistar rats
Authors: Gutierrez Arnold , Taffe Michael A.
Published: May 2024

Adolescent drug exposure has been associated with more severe mental health outcomes related to substance abuse and anxiety disorders. The aim of the present study was to contrast the long-term effects of repeated heroin vapor inhalation during adolescence with similar heroin exposure in adulthood. Groups of female Wistar rats underwent twice daily 30-minute sessions of heroin or propylene glycol (control) vapor inhalation from postnatal days (PND) 36-45 or PND 85-94, respectively. Nociception was assessed after vapor inhalation sessions and forty days later, for the Adolescent-Exposed and Adult-Exposed groups. Anxiety-like behavior was assessed with an elevated plus-maze (EPM) and spatial learning was assessed with a Barnes maze. Acute effects of naloxone (0.3 mg/kg, i.p.) and heroin (0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg, s.c.) on thermal nociception were determined on PND 140/189 and PND 149/198, respectively. Repeated heroin vapor inhalation produced anti-nociceptive tolerance across sessions in both adolescent and adult rats, with the adolescents exhibiting more complete tolerance. Heroin vapor inhalation produced anxiolytic effects, regardless of age of exposure. There were no effects of heroin on spatial learning. Naloxone produced acute hyperalgesia in all but the Adolescent-Exposed heroin group, and heroin anti-nociception was blunted in both heroin-exposed groups at the highest heroin dose. Repeated heroin vapor inhalation can produce lasting effects on nociception and anxiety-like behavior that persist for months after the exposure. Importantly, these findings suggest that adolescent exposure to heroin vapor produces specific effects on nociception that are not observed when exposure occurs in adulthood.
Digital Profiling of Tumor Extracellular Vesicle-associated RNAs Directly from Unprocessed Blood Plasma
Authors: Clarissa Elizabeth Maria , Kumar Sumit , Park Juhee , Karmacharya Mamata , Oh In-Jae , Kim Mi-Hyun , Ryu Jeong-Seon , Cho Yoon-Kyoung
Published: May 2024

Tumor-derived extracellular vesicle (tEV)-associated RNAs hold promise as diagnostic biomarkers, but their clinical use is hindered by the rarity of tEVs among non-tumor EVs. Here, we present EV-CLIP, a highly sensitive droplet-based digital method for profiling EV RNA. EV-CLIP utilizes the fusion of EVs with charged liposomes (CLIPs) in a microfluidic chip. Optimized CLIP surface charge enables exceptional sensitivity and selectivity for EV-derived miRNAs and mRNAs. This approach streamlines detection with minimal plasma volume (20 µL) and eliminates the need for prior EV isolation or RNA preparation, preventing loss of EVs or RNA. In testing with 83 patient samples, EV-CLIP detected EGFR L858R and T790M mutations with high AUC values of 1.0000 and 0.9784, respectively. Its success in serial monitoring during chemotherapy highlights its potential for precise quantification of rare EV subpopulations, facilitating the exploration of single EV RNA content and enhancing understanding of diverse EV populations in various disease states.

EV-CLIP: A highly sensitive digital method for tumor-derived EV RNA detection using undiluted blood plasma samples, promising for precise tumor management.
Exosomal miRNA-124 is involved in the immune regulation of cervical cancer by regulating CD45 alternative splicing
Authors: Liang Minxing , Yi Man , Yuan Yuyang , Chen Chengyi , Wang Qiyu , Lan Bo , Yang Jun , Li Xin , Yin Yue
Published: May 2024

Objective

To investigate the regulatory mechanism of miRNA-124 in tumor immune regulation of cervical cancer.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples of cervical cancer patients and transient infection controls were collected to extract exosomal miR-124 and Stem-loop Q-PCR to detect the expression level of miR-124. QPCR, WB, and flow cytometry were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of Th cell differentiation and function-related genes. Transfection, QPCR, and flow cytometry were used to detect the effects of miR-124 overexpression and silencing on the differentiation of Th immune memory cells. In vitro, cell-killing experiments were performed to detect the tumor-killing activity of TH immune memory cells co-cultured with the Hela cell line, and the downstream target genes of miR-124 were predicted and verified by luciferase. Multiplex PCR was used to detect the genotype of miR-124 SNP in peripheral blood DNA. QPCR and WB were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression and phosphorylation of miR-124 target gene GSK3-PSF-CD45 pathway, and GSK3 inhibitor was used to block the pathway.

Results

We found that exosomal miRNA-124 was significantly downregulated in cervical cancer tissues and affected Th cell immune function and memory cell generation. The overexpression of miRNA-124 can directly target GSK3, phosphorylate the target gene, and inhibit the expression of GSK3, thereby increasing the expression of CD45, increasing the ability of Th immune cells to recognize and kill the HPV virus, and significantly inhibiting the proliferation and migration of cervical cancer cells.
A systematic review of laboratory investigations into the pathogenesis of avian influenza viruses in wild avifauna of North America
Authors: Gonnerman Matthew , Leyson Christina , Sullivan Jeffery D. , Pantin-Jackwood Mary J. , Spackman Erica , Mullinax Jennifer M. , Prosser Diann J.
Published: May 2024

The lack of consolidated information regarding wild bird species’ response to avian influenza virus (AIV) infection is a challenge for conservation managers, researchers, and related sectors such as public health and commercial poultry. Such information could be used to model complex disease dynamics within communities, prioritize species for surveillance and conservation efforts, or identify species more likely to facilitate spillover into domestic animals or humans. Using two independent searches, we reviewed published literature for studies describing wild bird species experimentally infected with avian influenza to assess host species’ relative susceptibility to AIVs. Additionally, we summarized broad-scale parameters for elements such as shedding duration and minimum infectious dose that can be used in transmission modeling efforts. Our synthesis documented that waterfowl (i.e., Anatidae) comprise the vast majority of published AIV pathobiology studies, whereas gulls and passerines were less represented in research despite evidence that they also are susceptible and contribute to high pathogenicity avian influenza disease dynamics. This study represents the first comprehensive effort to compile available literature regarding the pathobiology of AIV’s in all wild birds in over a decade. This database provides an opportunity to critically examine and assess what is known and identify where further insight is needed.
STAT5B SH2 variants disrupt mammary enhancers and the stability of genetic programs during pregnancy
Authors: Lee Hye Kyung , Liu Chengyu , Hennighausen Lothar
Published: May 2024

During pregnancy, mammary tissue undergoes expansion and differentiation, leading to lactation, a process regulated by the hormone prolactin through the JAK2-STAT5 pathway. STAT5 activation is key to successful lactation making the mammary gland an ideal experimental system to investigate the impact of human missense mutations on mammary tissue homeostasis. Here, we investigated the effects of two human variants in the STAT5B SH2 domain, which convert tyrosine 665 to either phenylalanine (Y665F) or histidine (Y665H), both shown to activate STAT5B in cell culture. We ported these mutations into the mouse genome and found distinct and divergent functions. HomozygousStat5bY665Hmice failed to form functional mammary tissue, leading to lactation failure, with impaired alveolar development and greatly reduced expression of key differentiation genes. STAT5BY665Hfailed to recognize mammary enhancers and impeded STAT5A binding. In contrast, mice carrying theStat5bY665Fmutation exhibited abnormal precocious development, accompanied by an early activation of the mammary transcription program and the induction of otherwise silent genetic programs. Physiological adaptation was observed inStat5bY665Hmice as continued exposure to pregnancy hormones led to lactation. In summary, our findings highlight that human STAT5B variants can modulate their response to cytokines and thereby impact mammary homeostasis and lactation.

Graphical abstract
Activity-dependent FosB gene expression negatively regulates mast cell functions
Authors: Duque-Wilckens Natalia , Maradiaga Nidia , Szu-Ying Yeh , Joseph Dimitry , Srinavasan Vidhula , Thelen Kyan , Sotomayor Fabiola , Durga Kait , Nestler Eric , Moeser Adam J , Robison A.J.
Published: May 2024

Mast cells are innate immune cells that play a crucial role in numerous physiological processes across tissues by releasing pre-stored and newly synthesized mediators in response to stimuli, an activity largely driven by changes in gene expression. Given their widespread influence, dysfunction in mast cells can contribute to a variety of pathologies including allergies, long COVID, and autoimmune and neuroinflammatory disorders. Despite this, the specific transcriptional mechanisms that control mast cell mediator release remain poorly understood, significantly hindering the development of effective therapeutic strategies. We found that the two proteins encoded by the transcription factor FosB, FOSB and the highly stable variant ΔFOSB, are robustly expressed upon stimulation in both murine and human mast cell progenitors. Motivated by these findings, we generated a novel mouse model with targeted ablation of FosB gene expression specifically in mast cells (MCFosB-) by crossing a mast cell-specific Cre reporter line (Mcpt5-Cre) with a Cre-dependent floxed FosB mouse lines. We found that mast cell progenitors derived from MCFosB-mice, compared to wild types (WT), exhibit baseline increased histamine content and vesicle numbers. Additionally, they show enhanced calcium mobilization, degranulation, and histamine release following allergy-related IgE-mediated stimulation, along with heightened IL-6 release in response to infection-like LPS stimulation.In vivoexperiments with IgE- mediated and LPS challenges revealed that MCFosB-mice experience greater drops in body temperature, heightened activation of tissue-resident mast cells, and increased release of pro-inflammatory mediators compared to their WT counterparts. These findings suggest that FosB products play a crucial regulatory role in moderating stimulus-induced mast cell activation in response to both IgE and LPS stimuli. Lastly, by integrating CUT&RUN and RNAseq data, we identified several genes targeted by ΔFOSB that could mediate these observed effects, including Mir155hg, CLCF1, DUSP4, and Trib1. Together, this study provides the first evidence that FOSB/ΔFOSB modulate mast cell functions and provides a new possible target for therapeutic interventions aimed at ameliorating mast cell-related diseases.

Graphical Abstract
Cross-species analyses reveal RORγt-expressing dendritic cells are a lineage of antigen presenting cells conserved across tissues
Authors: Narasimhan Hamsa , Richter Maria L. , Shakiba Ramin , Papaioannou Nikos E. , Stehle Christina , Ravi Rengarajan Kaushikk , Ulmert Isabel , Küntzel Vanessa , Stange Eva-Lena , Antonova Alina U. , Klein Ludger , Dudziak Diana , Colonna Marco , Torow Natalia , Hornef Mathias W. , Lahl Katharina , Romagnani Chiara , Colomé-Tatché Maria , Schraml Barbara U.
Published: May 2024

Conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) are potent antigen presenting cells (APCs) that exhibit tissue and age-specific diversity allowing them to direct situation-adapted immunity. Thereby they harbor great potential for being targeted in vaccination and cancer. Here, we resolve conflicting data about expression of retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor-γt (RORψt) in cDCs. We show that RORψt+DCs exist in murine lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissues across age. Fate mapping, functional assays and single cell multiomic profiling reveal these cells as ontogenetically and transcriptionally distinct from other well characterized cDC subtypes, as well as from RORψt+type 3 innate lymphocytes (ILC3s). We show that RORψt+DCs can migrate to lymph nodes and activate naïve CD4+T cells in response to inflammatory triggers. Comparative and cross-species transcriptomics revealed homologous populations in human spleen, lymph nodes and intestines. Further, integrated meta-analyses aligned RORψt+DCs identified here with other emerging populations of RORψt+APCs, including R-DC-like cells, Janus cells/extrathymic Aire expressing cells (eTACs) and subtypes of Thetis cells. While RORψt+APCs have primarily been linked to T cell tolerance, our work establishes RORψt+DCs as unique lineage of immune sentinel cells conserved across tissues and species that expands the functional repertoire of RORψt+APCs beyond promoting tolerance.

One sentence summary

RORγt+DC exhibit versatile APC functions and are a distinct immune lineage conserved across age, tissues and species that entails Thetis cells, Janus cells/RORγt+eTACs and R-DC-like cells.
Transcriptional dissection of petty spurge (Euphorbia peplusL.) reproductive structures supports theEuphorbiacyathium as an inflorescence rather than a complete flower
Authors: Johnson Arielle Rose , Bao Ashley , Frank Margaret Hannah
Published: May 2024

The unique reproductive structure ofEuphorbiaspecies, the cyathium, has historically been considered an inflorescence despite its visual resemblance to a single complete flower. However, multiple other models have recently been proposed, including the idea that the cyathium is a flower or has some degree of floral identity. Enabled by the petty spurge (Euphorbia peplusL.) genome and guided by the ABCDE model of floral development, we dissected petty spurge cyathia and carried out a transcriptomic analysis of the different organs. We also constructed gene phylogenies and performed dN/dS analysis on select floral genes. The E class gene SEP3 was not upregulated in the involucre as compared with the cyathophyll, indicating that the cyathium is not a complete flower. The filiform structures show upregulation of B and E class genes and transcriptomic signatures of heterochromatin formation, consistent with the hypothesis that they are reduced flowers.E. peplushomologs for the inflorescence/floral meristem genes UFO and LFY and the B class genes AP3 and PI have highly diverged sequences relative to other Euphorbiaceae species, suggesting that these reproductive patterning genes may have evolved divergent functions. We propose a new model in which the evolution of the cyathium involves two innovations: 1. altering LFY function to influence the timing of floral meristem development to create a compact flower-like inflorescence, and 2. altering the B class genes so that no perianth is formed. Our new hypothesis includes testable predictions about protein interactions and gene sequence evolution.