bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of lipid metabolism exerts antitumor effects on rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Miyagaki Satoshi , Kikuchi Ken , Mori Jun , Lopaschuk Gary D. , Iehara Tomoko , Hosoi Hajime
Published: September 2021

Rhabdomyosarcoma exhibits tumor‐specific energy metabolic changes that include the Warburg effect. Since targeting cancer metabolism is a promising therapeutic approach, we examined the antitumor effects of suppressing lipid metabolism in rhabdomyosarcoma. We suppressed lipid metabolism in rhabdomyosarcoma cells in vitro by administering an inhibitor of malonyl‐CoA decarboxylase, which increases malonyl‐CoA and decreases fatty acid oxidation. Suppression of lipid metabolism in rhabdomyosarcoma cells decreased cell proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest. Metabolomic analysis showed an increase in glycolysis and inactivation of the pentose phosphate pathway. Immunoblotting analysis revealed upregulated expression of the autophagy marker LC3A/B‐II due to increased phosphorylation of AMP‐activated protein kinase, a nutrient sensor. p21 protein expression level also increased. Inhibition of both lipid metabolism and autophagy suppressed tumor proliferation and increased apoptosis. In vivo studies involved injection of human Rh30 cells into the gastrocnemius muscle of 6‐week‐old female nude mice, which were divided into normal chow and low‐fat diet groups. The mice fed a low‐fat diet for 21 days showed reduced tumor growth compared to normal chow diet‐fed mice. Suppression of lipid metabolism disrupted the equilibrium of the cancer‐specific metabolism in rhabdomyosarcoma, resulting in a tumor growth‐inhibition effect. Therefore, the development of treatments focusing on the lipid dependence of rhabdomyosarcoma is highly promising.
Student mental health profiles and barriers to help seeking: When and why students seek help for a mental health concern
Authors: Broglia Emma , Millings Abigail , Barkham Michael
Published: September 2021

Background

The student mental health landscape in higher education requires preventative strategies that maintain daily functioning as well as early intervention to respond to episodes of mental ill‐health. As a community, this requires capturing the needs of students in the general university population as well as those using counselling and psychological wellbeing services.

Aims

This cross‐sectional study aimed to characterise the mental health profile of students in the general university population and identify barriers to help seeking.

Methods

A total of 1,956 students from five UK universities completed an online questionnaire comprising the CCAPS‐34 and open‐ended questions about their mental health concerns and intentions to seek help. Mental health profiles were explored using mixed factorial ANOVAs and post hoc simple effect analyses. Help‐seeking behaviours and intentions were identified using conceptual content analysis.

Results

Distinctive mental health profiles emerged across faculties and help‐seeking behaviours. Content analysis identified students’ help‐seeking experiences, intentions, preferences and barriers.

Conclusions

Characterising the mental health profile of students outside of support services, as well as their barriers to seeking help, provides a rich understanding for shaping preventative policies and service provision. Doing so will respond to student mental health needs before they require clinical intervention.
Revisiting the Molecular Interactions between the Tumor Protein TCTP and the Drugs Sertraline/Thioridazine
Authors: Malard Florian , Jacquet Eric , Nhiri Naima , Sizun Christina , Chabrier Amélie , Messaoudi Samir , Dejeu Jérôme , Betzi Stéphane , Zhang Xu , Thureau Aurélien , Lescop Ewen
Published: September 2021

TCTP protein is a pharmacological target in cancer and TCTP inhibitors such as sertraline have been evaluated in clinical trials. The direct interaction of TCTP with the drugs sertraline and thioridazine has been reported in vitro by SPR experiments to be in the ∼30‐50 μM Kd range (Amson et al. Nature Med 2012), supporting a TCTP‐dependent mode of action of the drugs on tumor cells. However, the molecular details of the interaction remain elusive although they are crucial to improve the efforts of on‐going medicinal chemistry. In addition, TCTP can be phosphorylated by the Plk‐1 kinase, which is indicative of poor prognosis in several cancers. The impact of phosphorylation on TCTP structure/dynamics and binding with therapeutical ligands remains unexplored. Here, we combined NMR, TSA, SPR, BLI and ITC techniques to probe the molecular interactions between TCTP with the drugs sertraline and thioridazine. We reveal that drug binding is much weaker than reported with an apparent ∼mM Kd and leads to protein destabilization that obscured the analysis of the published SPR data. We further demonstrate by NMR and SAXS that TCTP S46 phosphorylation does not promote tighter interaction between TCTP and sertraline. Accordingly, we question the supported model in which sertraline and thioridazine directly interact with isolated TCTP in tumor cells and discuss alternative modes of action for the drugs in light of current literature.
Identifiability of Biologicals: An Analysis Using EudraVigilance, the European Union's Database of Reports of Suspected Adverse Drug Reactions
Authors: Correia Pinheiro Luis , Giezen Thijs J. , Wolff‐Holz Elena , Weise Martina , Laslop Andrea , Hidalgo‐Simon Ana
Published: September 2021

The relevance of biological therapies for an increasing number of conditions is on the rise. Following the expiry of the initial period of market exclusivity, many of these successful therapies have seen the arrival of biosimilars on the market. The clear identification of the precise medicine responsible for an adverse drug reaction (ADR) report is an important element for pharmacovigilance, allowing timely detection of potential product‐specific safety signals. We looked at the identifiability of biologicals up to the level of commercial product name in ADR reports received from European clinical practice between 2011 and December 2019. A good level of identification (91.5%) was observed overall, but at the same time a downward trend was observed in the last 5 years. This reduction in the level of identifiability of biological products (originators and biosimilars) at the commercial name level in general was driven by five widely used substances, whereas the identification of all other biologics stayed consistent over time (at over 90%). We observed that those five substances were used mostly within oncology. The introduction of the first biosimilar in the market did not appear to affect their identifiability. These results show that although the general level of identification at the commercial product name level in ADRs in Europe is robust and generally stable over time, decreasing trends can be down to a few commonly used substances, which need to be monitored to reverse the trend.
Effects of traditional harvest and burning on common camas (Camassia quamash) abundance in Northern Idaho: The potential for traditional resource management in a protected area wetland
Authors: Stucki Devin S. , Rodhouse Thomas J. , Reuter Ron J.
Published: September 2021

The bulbs of common camas (Camassia quamash) were a staple food of Indigenous Peoples of western North America for millennia. Camas harvesting site productivity was encouraged through intense management. Common camas is considered a facultative wetland species, and populations have declined due to contemporary wetland drainage and land conversion. Conservation of existing habitat, as well as restoration of degraded systems, is necessary. Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and resource management (TRM) are often promoted as viable modes of contemporary resource management but are rarely tested or implemented. We designed a controlled experiment, informed by a born‐in‐the‐tradition specialist, to evaluate the response of common camas populations to traditional bulb harvest, burning, and a combination of harvest and burning. We recorded camas plant counts of three life stage classes of camas plants (single‐leaf seedling, multiple‐leaf adult, and flowering adult) over the course of 6 years in arrays of plots and subjected to treatments or left undisturbed as control. Harvesting removed plants (>800 bulbs) and reduced aboveground counts of camas densities ( ~ 50% of control, p < .05). Burning contributed to a reduction in single‐leaf plants but had an overall positive effect ( ~ 150% of control, p < .05) on adult camas and flowering plant abundance, and ameliorated the digging impacts. Treatment impacts tapered over the course of the study, and results indicate that a sustainable harvesting return interval of approximately 5 years may be possible when combined with fire to reduce litter and competition from pasture grasses and to accelerate the recovery of camas. Our findings support the hypotheses proposed by traditional knowledge specialists and ethnobotanists that digging and burning reduce intra‐ and interspecific competition and stimulate the growth of unharvested adult plants. More generally, our study supports the integration of traditional ecological knowledge into the evidence base available for protected area wetland prairie management.
Functional groups in piscivorous fishes
Authors: Mihalitsis Michalis , Bellwood David R.
Published: September 2021

Piscivory is a key ecological function in aquatic ecosystems, mediating energy flow within trophic networks. However, our understanding of the nature of piscivory is limited; we currently lack an empirical assessment of the dynamics of prey capture and how this differs between piscivores. We therefore conducted aquarium‐based performance experiments, to test the feeding abilities of 19 piscivorous fish species. We quantified their feeding morphology, striking, capturing, and processing behavior. We identify two major functional groups: grabbers and engulfers. Grabbers are characterized by horizontal, long‐distance strikes, capturing their prey tailfirst and subsequently processing their prey using their oral jaw teeth. Engulfers strike from short distances, from high angles above or below their prey, engulfing their prey and swallowing their prey whole. Based on a meta‐analysis of 2,209 published in situ predator–prey relationships in marine and freshwater aquatic environments, we show resource partitioning between grabbers and engulfers. Our results provide a functional classification for piscivorous fishes delineating patterns, which transcend habitats, that may help explain size structures in fish communities.
Enantioselective Organocatalytic Synthesis of 1,2,3‐Trisubstituted Cyclopentanes
Authors: Šotolová Martina , Kamlar Martin , Remeš Marek , Géant Pierre‐Yves , Císařová Ivana , Štícha Martin , Veselý Jan
Published: September 2021

An organocatalytic asymmetric domino Michael/α‐alkylation reaction between enals and non‐stabilized alkyl halides has been developed. Chiral secondary amine catalyzed cyclization reaction of 1‐bromo‐3‐nitropropane with α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes provides 1,2,3‐trisubstituted cyclopentane carbaldehydes with high diastereo‐ (dr up to 8 : 1) and enantioselectivities (ee up to 96 %).
Alleviation of neuropathic pain by over‐expressing a soluble colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor to suppress microgliosis and macrophage accumulation
Authors: Gushchina Svetlana , Yip Ping K. , Parry Glesni A. , Sivakumar Haripriya , Li Jie , Liu Min , Bo Xuenong
Published: September 2021

Microglial proliferation and activation and macrophage accumulation are implicated in neuropathic pain development. In this study, we aim to suppress microgliosis and macrophage accumulation by over‐expressing a non‐functional soluble colony stimulating factor‐1 receptor (sCSF1R) using an adeno‐associated virus 9 vector (AAV9). AAV9/sCSF1R and the control vector AAV9/GFP were intrathecally administered into the lumbar spine of adult C57BL/6 mice. Two weeks later, these mice underwent partial sciatic nerve ligation to induce neuropathic pain. GFP and sCSF1R were highly expressed in lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and spinal cord of AAV9‐injected mice. A significant increase in microglia densities in the dorsal and ventral horns of lumbar spinal cords and macrophage densities in DRG and sciatic nerves were observed in the mice with either ligation alone or pre‐treated with AAV9/GFP. In nerve‐ligated mice pre‐treated with AAV9/sCSF1R the microglia densities in the dorsal and ventral horns and macrophage densities in DRG and sciatic nerves were significantly lower compared to nerve‐ligated mice pre‐treated with AAV9/GFP. Behavioral tests showed that nerve‐ligated mice pre‐treated with AAV9/sCSF1R had a significantly higher paw withdrawal threshold, indicating the alleviation of neuropathic pain. The results implicate that viral vector‐mediated expression of sCSF1R may represent a novel strategy in the alleviation of neuropathic pain.
Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Individuals With Nonobese Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Arvind Ashwini , Henson Jacqueline B. , Osganian Stephanie A. , Nath Cheryl , Steinhagen Lara M. , Memel Zoe N. , Donovan Arley , Balogun Oluwafemi , Chung Raymond T. , Simon Tracey G. , Corey Kathleen E.
Published: September 2021

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is independently associated with obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the primary cause of mortality in the predominantly obese population of adults with NAFLD. NAFLD is increasingly seen in individuals who are lean and overweight (i.e., nonobese), but it is unclear whether their risk of CVD is comparable to those with NAFLD and obesity. Using a prospective cohort of patients with NAFLD, we compared the prevalence and incidence of CVD in individuals with and without obesity. NAFLD was diagnosed by biopsy or imaging after excluding other chronic liver disease etiologies. Logistic regression was used to compare the odds of baseline CVD by obesity status. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to evaluate obesity as a predictor of incident CVD and to identify predictors of CVD in subjects with and without obesity. At baseline, adults with obesity had a higher prevalence of CVD compared to those without obesity (12.0% vs. 5.0%, P = 0.02). During follow‐up, however, obesity did not predict incident CVD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69‐2.22) or other metabolic diseases. Findings were consistent when considering body mass index as a continuous variable and after excluding subjects who were overweight. Age (adjusted HR [aHR], 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03‐1.08), smoking (aHR, 4.61; 95% CI, 1.89‐11.22), and decreased low‐density lipoprotein levels (aHR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.96‐1.00) independently predicted incident CVD in the entire cohort, in subjects with obesity, and in those without obesity, respectively. Conclusion: Individuals with overweight or lean NAFLD are not protected from incident CVD compared to those with NAFLD and obesity, although CVD predictors appear to vary between these groups. Patients without obesity also should undergo rigorous risk stratification and treatment.
Effective Mentoring and the Problem of Assessing Quality in Science
Authors: Reetz Manfred T.
Published: September 2021

In this short essay, I re‐emphasize the inter‐relationship between mentoring doctoral students or postdocs and the never ending problem of assessing the quality of scientific outputs. It includes the plea to mentees and mentors not to employ an overblown language in papers, posters and lectures, which constitute a gross exaggeration of the true state of affairs. Doubt is also cast on the present use of Hirsch‐factors and other bibliometric data as well as certain social media claiming to be effective in assessing scientific quality.
Study on the contrast of the MHC–peptide interaction of B2/B21 haplotype and MHC‐related virus resistance in chickens
Authors: Jin Yuan‐chang , Wang Wei , Yu Min‐min , Hao Mei‐lin , Zeng Gang , Chen Jing‐fen , Dai Juan , Wu Yu‐jie
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Three‐dimensional (3D) structures of MHC class I exert some influence by the MHC–peptide interaction over host resistance to the virus. The thesis aims at studying the connection between MHC–peptide interaction of B2/B21 haplotype and MHC‐related resistance to the virus.

Methods

The structure of chicken MHC class I BF2*0201 from B2 haplotype was studied and contrasted with that of BF2*2101 from B21 haplotype by using DNAMAN and PyMol software.

Results

The amino acid difference resulted in the difference in size and changeability of the binding groove of the two, resulting in different choices on the binding polypeptide. 3bew's (the crystal structure of BF2*2101 bound to peptide RV10) small side chain His111 replaces the short side chain Tyr111 of 4cvx (the crystal structure of BF2*0201 bound to peptide YL9), and the very small amino acid of Ser69 and Ser97 make the middle of the 3bew's binding groove become apparently broad and bound restrictive of amino acid smaller. Moreover, due to the specific amino acids—Arg9, Asp24, and Asp73 of 4cvx and Arg9, Asp24, and His111 of 3bew, the effect of the polypeptide and the binding groove differ between the two, and 3bew tends to bind polypeptides with negatively charged amino acids, but the large space in the middle can also accommodate other amino acids. Contrasted with the binding groove characteristic of 4cvx, it can be said that the selectivity of 3bew is higher than that of 4cvx in the amino acid type of the binding polypeptide, so the B21 haplotype has more host resistance to the virus than that of the B2 haplotype in chicken.

Conclusion

There are usually various kinds of peptides presented by the BF2*2101 molecules of B21 haplotypes, resulting in resistance to pathogenic microorganisms, such as Rous sarcoma virus and/or Marek's disease virus. These findings may have an important theoretical foundation for screening of virus antigen, vaccine design, and genetic resistance breeding.
Improved phase stability of CsPbI2Br perovskite by released microstrain toward highly efficient and stable solar cells
Authors: Zheng Kanghui , Ge Jinfeng , Liu Chang , Lou Qiang , Chen Xia , Meng Yuanyuan , Yin Xu , Bu Shixiao , Liu Cuirong , Ge Ziyi
Published: September 2021

All‐inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have developed rapidly in the field of photovoltaics due to their excellent thermal and light stability. However, compared with organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites, the phase instability of inorganic perovskite under humidity still remains as a critical issue that hampers the commercialization of inorganic PSCs. We originally propose in this work that microstrains between the perovskite lattices/grains play a key role in affecting the phase stability of inorganic perovskite. To this end, we innovatively design the π‐conjugated p‐type molecule bis(2‐ethylhexyl) 3,3′((4,8‐bis(5‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐3,4‐difluorothiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl)bis(3,3″‐dioctyl[2,2′:5′,2″‐terthiophene]‐5″,5‐diyl))(2E,2′E)‐bis(2‐cyanoacrylate) (BTEC‐2F) to covalent with the Pb dangling bonds in CsPbI2Br perovskite film, which significantly suppress the trap states and release the defect‐induced local stress between perovskite grains. The interplay between the microstrains and phase stability of the inorganic perovskite are scrutinized by a series of characterizations including x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence, x‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and so forth, based on which, we conclude that weaker local stresses in the perovskite film engender superior phase stability by preventing the perovskite lattice distortion under humidity. By this rational design, PSCs based on CsPbI2Br perovskite system deliver an outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 16.25%. The unencapsulated device also exhibits an exceptional moisture stability by retaining over 80% of the initial PCE after 500 h aging in ambient with relative humidity of (RH) 25%.

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Community organizing: Studying the development and exercise of grassroots power
Authors: Christens Brian D. , Gupta Jyoti , Speer Paul W.
Published: September 2021

There is now wide recognition that grassroots community organizing is a uniquely necessary approach for contending with the persistent and escalating socioeconomic inequities that manifest as disparities across many societal domains, including housing, safety, education, and mental and physical health. The articles in this special issue report findings from studies designed to increase understanding of community organizing processes and produce actionable knowledge that can enhance these and other similar efforts to create more equitable and just cities and regions. These studies examine a variety of community organizing campaigns, initiatives, and networks in North America, as well as one in Bulgaria, and one in South Africa. These groups are building social power and demanding economic, racial, educational, and environmental justice. In this introductory article, we highlight some of the themes that emerge from this set of studies and make recommendations for future roles that research can play in advancing collective understanding and the practical objectives of grassroots organizing initiatives.
Efficacy and Safety of Lasmiditan for Acute Treatment of Migraine in Adults: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Maiti Rituparna , Mishra Archana , Puliappadamb Haridas Mundot , Jena Monalisa , Srinivasan Anand
Published: September 2021

Monotherapy with triptans in acute migraine is ineffective in many patients and contraindicated in certain cardiovascular diseases where alternative therapeutic options are necessary to explore. This meta‐analysis has evaluated the efficacy and safety of lasmiditan for the treatment of acute migraine in adults. After performing a literature search on MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane databases, and International Clinical Trial Registry Platform, reviewers assessed eligibility and extracted data from 4 relevant articles. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines were followed in the selection, analysis, and reporting of findings. A random‐effects model was used to estimate effect size. Quality assessment was done using the risk of bias assessment tool and meta‐regression for probable variables affecting effect size. Subgroup analysis was done depending on the dose of lasmiditan. Lasmiditan use was associated with a significantly higher percentage of patients with pain freedom (odds ratio [OR], 2.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.72‐2.39; P < .00001), sustained pain freedom (OR, 1.93; 95%CI, 1.55‐2.39; P <.00001), headache response (OR, 2.05; 95%CI, 1.77‐2.36; P < .00001), clinical disability level (OR, 1.36; 95%CI, 1.20‐1.55; P < .00001), patients’ global impression (OR, 1.88; 95%CI, 1.69‐2.10; P < .00001), and significantly lower use of rescue medication (OR, 0.49; 95%CI, 0.38‐0.63; P < .00001) compared to placebo. Lasmiditan use was also associated with a higher likelihood of adverse effects like dizziness (OR, 6.54; 95%CI, 4.24‐10.07; P < .00001), paresthesia (OR, 4.28; 95%CI, 2.97‐6.17; P < .00001), and fatigue (OR, 5.67; 95%CI, 3.78‐8.52; P < .00001) compared to placebo. Subgroup analysis showed a dose‐dependent effect of lasmiditan on pain freedom, sustained pain freedom, patient's global impression, and occurrence of adverse drug reactions. Prediction probability for effect estimate favoring placebo was calculated to be 0.0017%. Lasmiditan has shown a favorable effect in terms of efficacy and safety in the treatment of an acute attack of migraine in comparison to placebo. Further studies are needed to evaluate long‐term safety, efficacy, and use in specific subgroups of patients.

PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42020177838
Effect of self‐efficacy and empathy characteristics of post‐graduate residents on local anesthesia administration performances: Pilot study
Authors: Kuscu Ozgur Onder , Ozcelik Selcuk Mert , Kucuktepe Coskun , Akyuz Serap
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The “Profile and Competences for the European Dentist” document addresses some competencies as a must for graduating dentists, some of which are stated as providing humane and compassionate care to all patients and administering local anesthesia for pain management. Within this perspective, this study aims to investigate the effect of self‐efficacy and empathy characteristics of post‐graduate residents (post‐grads) on the perceived pain and anxiety scores of children during local anesthesia administrations.

Materials and methods

Ten pediatric dentistry post‐grads and 91 children aged between 5 and13 years participated in the study. Post‐grads performed 120 injections as part of their routine dental treatment in children. Demographic data, self‐efficacy, and empathy scale scores of post‐grads, anxiety, and pain scores of children were recorded during injections.

Results

Self‐efficacy scale scores of residents ranged between 66 and 74 with a mean score of 69.80 ± 2.69. Empathy scale scores were between 77 and 97 and the mean was 89.20 ± 6.24. Significant and negative correlations were observed between self‐efficacy scores of post‐grads and pain scores of children (r = –0.205 and p = 0.025). Empathy scores of post‐grads established a significant and positive correlation with children's anxiety scores (r = 0.244 and p < 0.007).

Conclusions

Self‐efficacy and empathy characteristics of post‐grads were found to have an impact on the perceived pain and anxiety scores of children during local anesthesia administrations. Empathetic post‐grads with higher self‐efficacy provided an enhanced local anesthesia experience for child patients. Therefore, educational programs should also be organized aiming to develop self‐efficacy and empathy characteristics of post‐grads for a more humane and compassionate dental experience in child patients.
HIV self‐testing and oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis are empowering for sex workers and their intimate partners: a qualitative study in Uganda
Authors: Mujugira Andrew , Nakyanzi Agnes , Kasiita Vicent , Kamusiime Brenda , Nalukwago Grace K. , Nalumansi Alisaati , Twesigye Chris C. , Muwonge Timothy R. , Baeten Jared M. , Wyatt Monique A. , Haberer Jessica E. , Ware Norma C.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

HIV self‐testing (HIVST) and oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are complementary, evidence‐based, self‐controlled HIV prevention tools that may be particularly appealing to sex workers. Understanding how HIVST and PrEP are perceived and used by sex workers and their intimate partners could inform prevention delivery for this population. We conducted qualitative interviews to examine ways in which HIVST and PrEP use influence prevention choices among sex workers in Uganda.

Methods

Within a randomized trial of HIVST and PrEP among 110 HIV‐negative cisgender women, cisgender men and transgender women sex workers (NCT03426670), we conducted 40 qualitative interviews with 30 sex workers and 10 intimate partners (June 2018 to January 2020). Sex worker interviews explored (a) experiences of using HIVST kits; (b) how HIVST was performed with sexual partners; (c) impact of HIVST on PrEP pill taking; and (d) sexual risk behaviours after HIVST. Partner interviews covered (i) introduction of HIVST; (ii) experiences of using HIVST; (iii) HIV status disclosure; and (iv) HIVST's effect on sexual behaviours. Data were analysed using an inductive content analytic approach centering on descriptive category development. Together, these categories detail the meaning of HIVST and PrEP for these qualitative participants.

Results

Using HIVST and PrEP was empowering for this group of sex workers and their partners. Three types of empowerment were observed: (a) economic; (b) relational; and (c) sexual health. (i) Using HIVST and PrEP made sex without condoms safer. Sex workers could charge more for condomless sex, which was empowering economically. (ii) Self‐testing restored trust in partners’ fidelity upon being reunited after a separation. This trust, in combination with condomless sex made possible by PrEP use, restored intimacy, empowering partnered relationships. (iii) HIVST and PrEP enabled sex workers to take control of their HIV prevention efforts and avoid the stigma of public clinic visits. In this way they were empowered to protect their sexual health.

Conclusions

In this sample, sex workers’ use of HIVST and PrEP benefitted not only prevention efforts, but also economic and relational empowerment. Understanding these larger benefits and communicating them to stakeholders could strengthen uptake and use of combination prevention interventions in this marginalized population.
Global scoping review of HIV prevention research with transgender people: Transcending from trans‐subsumed to trans‐centred research
Authors: del Río‐González Ana María , Lameiras‐Fernández María , Modrakovic Djordje , Aguayo‐Romero Rodrigo , Glickman Courtney , Bowleg Lisa , Zea Maria Cecilia
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Globally, transgender populations are disproportionally impacted by HIV and effective HIV prevention interventions targeting these populations are critically needed. Such interventions require research focused on the specific needs and experiences of transgender people. This methodological review aims to determine the extent to which HIV prevention research has included transgender participants by subsuming them into non‐transgender populations, or by centring them either in comparison with other groups or as the sole focus of research.

Methods

We searched five electronic databases (e.g. SCOPUS) for empirical studies that focused on HIV prevention and included transgender participants, published through 31 December 2020. For each study, we extracted information on: (a) types of inclusion of transgender participants; (b) total sample size and number/percentage of transgender participants; (c) country(ies) where study was conducted; (d) HIV research topics; (e) methods (i.e. quantitative, qualitative or mixed‐methods research) and (f) gender identity of transgender participants.

Results and discussion

Of 667 HIV prevention studies included in the review, 38.5% subsumed transgender participants into cisgender populations (most frequently combining transgender women with cisgender men who have sex with men), 20.4% compared transgender and cisgender participants and 41.1% focused exclusively on transgender populations. Our global scoping review also revealed that these three types of transgender inclusion in HIV prevention research vary greatly over time, place and thematic areas. Transgender women are the focus of the majority of reviewed studies, whereas transgender men and gender expansive people are rarely included as participants.

Conclusions

Inclusion of transgender persons as participants in HIV prevention research has significantly increased, particularly in the last decade. Further research centred on transgender participants and their experiences are needed to develop effective HIV prevention interventions for transgender populations. We advocate for HIV prevention research to move from subsuming transgender people, to trans‐centred research that asks questions that focus on their specific needs and experiences. We provide recommendations to move from trans‐subsumed to trans‐centred HIV prevention research.
HIV‐sensitive social protection for vulnerable young women in East and Southern Africa: a systematic review
Authors: van der Wal Ran , Loutfi David , Hong Quan Nha , Vedel Isabelle , Cockcroft Anne , Johri Mira , Andersson Neil
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Social protection programmes are considered HIV‐sensitive when addressing risk, vulnerability or impact of HIV infection. Socio‐economic interventions, like livelihood and employability programmes, address HIV vulnerabilities like poverty and gender inequality. We explored the HIV‐sensitivity of socio‐economic interventions for unemployed and out‐of‐school young women aged 15 to 30 years, in East and Southern Africa, a key population for HIV infection.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review using a narrative synthesis method and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool for quality appraisal. Interventions of interest were work skills training, microfinance, and employment support. Outcomes of interest were socio‐economic outcomes (income, assets, savings, skills, (self‐) employment) and HIV‐related outcomes (behavioural and biological). We searched published and grey literature (January 2005 to November 2019; English/French) in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and websites of relevant international organizations.

Results

We screened 3870 titles and abstracts and 188 full‐text papers to retain 18 papers, representing 12 projects. Projects offered different combinations of HIV‐sensitive social protection programmes, complemented with mentors, safe space and training (HIV, reproductive health and gender training). All 12 projects offered work skills training to improve life and business skills. Six offered formal (n= 2) or informal (n= 5) livelihood training. Eleven projects offered microfinance, including microgrants (n= 7), microcredit (n= 6) and savings (n= 4). One project offered employment support in the form of apprenticeships. In general, microgrants, savings, business and life skills contributed improved socio‐economic and HIV‐related outcomes. Most livelihood training contributed positive socio‐economic outcomes, but only two projects showed improved HIV‐related outcomes. Microcredit contributed little to either outcome. Programmes were effective when (i) sensitive to beneficiaries' age, needs, interests and economic vulnerability; (ii) adapted to local implementation contexts; and (iii) included life skills. Programme delivery through mentorship and safe space increased social capital and may be critical to improve the HIV‐sensitivity of socio‐economic programmes.

Conclusions

A wide variety of livelihood and employability programmes were leveraged to achieve improved socio‐economic and HIV‐related outcomes among unemployed and out‐of‐school young women. To be HIV‐sensitive, programmes should be designed around their interests, needs and vulnerability, adapted to local implementation contexts, and include life skills. Employment support received little attention in this literature.
Comparing recruitment strategies to engage hard‐to‐reach men who have sex with men living with HIV with unsuppressed viral loads in four US cities: Results from HPTN 078
Authors: Beyrer Chris , Malone Jowanna , Baral Stefan , Wang Zhe , Rio Carlos Del , Mayer Kenneth H. , Batey D. Scott , Farley Jason , Gamble Theresa , Stanton Jill , Hughes James P. , Wilson Ethan , Irvin Risha , Guevara‐Perez Oscar , Bocek Adam , Bruce Josh , Gaston Ronald , Cummings Vanessa , Remien Robert H. ,   the HPTN 078 Study Team
Published: September 2021

Introduction

There is an urgent need to identify men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV with unsuppressed viral loads to prevent transmission. Though respondent‐driven sampling (RDS) is traditionally used for hard‐to‐reach populations, we compare how RDS and direct recruitment (DR) perform in identifying MSM living with HIV with unsuppressed viral loads and identifying MSM with socio‐demographics characteristic of hard‐to‐reach populations.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional analysis among 1305 MSM who were recruited from March 2016 to December 2017 for a case management intervention trial (HPTN 078). We recruited participants across four cities using RDS and DR methods: Birmingham, AL; Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; and Boston, MA. Participants completed a socio‐demographic questionnaire and underwent HIV testing. We compare the proportion of MSM with HIV and unsuppressed viral loads (HIV RNA 1000 copies/ml) based on recruitment method using Pearson chi‐square tests. We also compare differences in race, income, healthcare coverage, education, sexual orientation, hidden sexuality and comfort with participating in the LGBT community between recruitment methods and perform non‐parametric trend tests to see how demographics change across RDS recruitment waves.

Results

RDS recruited 721 men (55.2%) and DR yielded 584 men (44.8%). Overall, 69% were living with HIV, of whom 18% were not virally suppressed. HIV prevalence was higher among those recruited via DR (84%) compared to RDS (58%), p < 0.0001. Twenty per cent of DR recruits were not virally suppressed compared to 15% of RDS, though this was not significant. DR yielded a significantly higher proportion of Black participants and those with less than a high school diploma. The prevalence of low income, no healthcare coverage, bisexuality and hidden sexuality increased across RDS waves.

Conclusions

DR was more efficient in identifying MSM living with HIV with unsuppressed viral loads; however, there was a higher proportion of hard‐to‐reach MSM who were low income, lacked health coverage, were bisexual and were not open with their sexuality in deeper waves of RDS. Researchers should consider supplementing RDS recruitment with DR efforts if aiming to identify MSM with unsuppressed viral loads via RDS.
Outcomes of Simplified Lung Ultrasound Exam in COVID‐19: Implications for Self‐Imaging
Authors: Kimura Bruce J. , Shi Rujing , Tran Eric M. , Spierling Bagsic Samantha R. , Resnikoff Pamela M.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Lung ultrasound B‐lines represent interstitial thickening or edema and relate to mortality in COVID‐19. As B‐lines can be detected with minimal training using point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS), we examined the frequency, clinical associations, and outcomes of B‐lines when found using a simplified POCUS method in acutely ill patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, hospital data from COVID‐19 patients who had undergone lung imaging during standard echocardiography or POCUS were reviewed for an ultrasound lung comet (ULC) sign, defined as the presence of ≥3 B‐lines from images of only the antero‐apex of either lung (ULC+). Clinical risk factors, oximetry and radiographic results, and disease severity were analyzed for associations with ULC+. Clinical risk factors and ULC+ were analyzed for associations with hospital mortality or the need for intensive care in multivariable models.

Results

Of N = 160 patients, age (mean ± standard deviation) was 64.8 ± 15.5 years, and 46 (29%) died. ULC+ was present in 100/160 (62%) of patients overall, in 81/103 (79%) of severe‐or‐greater disease versus 19/57 (33%) of moderate‐or‐less disease (P < .0001) and was associated with mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 2.4 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–5.4], P = .02) and the need for intensive care (OR = 5.23 [95% CI: 2.42–12.40], P < .0001). In the multivariable models, symptom duration and severe‐or‐greater disease were associated with ULC+, and ULC+, diabetes, and symptom duration were associated with the need for intensive care.

Conclusions

B‐lines in the upper chest were common and related to disease severity, intensive care, and hospital mortality in COVID‐19. Validation of a simplified lung POCUS exam could provide the evidence basis for a self‐imaging application during the pandemic.
Contemporary Incremental Healthcare Costs for Allergic Rhinitis in the United States
Authors: Workman Alan D. , Dattilo Lillian , Rathi Vinay K. , Bhattacharyya Neil
Published: September 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Describe contemporary changes in healthcare expenditure and utilization associated with allergic rhinitis (AR) over the past decade.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis.

Methods

Patients reporting a diagnosis of AR were extracted from the 2018 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey and linked to the consolidated expenditures file. AR patients were then compared to non‐AR patients to demonstrate differences in healthcare utilization for office visits, emergency facility visits, and prescriptions. In addition, differences in total healthcare costs, office‐based costs, and prescription costs were calculated, using demographic‐ and comorbidity‐adjusted multivariate models. Results were compared to those obtained in 2007.

Results

In 2018, an estimated 1.94 ± 0.2 million adult patients reported AR (0.8% of the US population receiving medical care), a 90% decrease from the 17.8 ± 0.7 million patients seen in a formal healthcare setting for AR in 2007 (7.9%). AR patients still formally seen in 2018 had an average of 4.4 ± 1.3 more office visits (P = .001) and 9.7 ± 2.2 more prescription fills (P < .001) than non‐AR patients. In contrast to the 2007 findings, there was no difference in total health care expenditure per person with AR per year. When comparing total healthcare expenditure between 2018 and 2007, there was a net decrease of $1,176 per person with AR per year (P < .01).

Conclusions

Patients reporting AR in a formal healthcare encounter fell significantly over the past decade, and per‐person expenditure associated with an AR diagnosis also decreased significantly. The transition of nasal corticosteroids to over‐the‐counter was potentially a key driver behind these changes.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:1510–1514, 2022
Climbing bean breeding for disease resistance and grain quality traits
Authors: Portilla Ana Elisabeth , Mayor‐Duran Victor Manuel , Buendia Hector Fabio , Blair Matthew W. , Cichy Karen , Raatz Bodo
Published: September 2021

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is grown in two growth types, bush and climbing beans. The latter are preferred in several regions in East and Southern African as well as in Latin America (dominant in Rwanda and Colombia), due to higher yields and resilience compared with bush type. Common bean productivity is reduced by several pests and diseases between them. Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV), which is the most common and destructive poty‐virus affecting bean production worldwide, and anthracnose, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, can cause yield losses as high as 95% in susceptible cultivars. Further important traits in common bean are high micro mineral contents to alleviate malnutrition and grain quality traits such as the canning quality of bean varieties, which is important for farmers to access the processing market. In this study, new climbing bean populations were generated (coded ENF/CGA) to combine high seed iron (SdFe) and multiple diseases resistance. Double and triple crosses between parents with virus and anthracnose resistance, high SdFe, and good agronomic traits were employed. In trials in Darien and Popayan, lines were identified that combine BCMNV/BCMV and anthracnose resistance with seed yields above 4000 kg/ha. Phenotypic evaluations validated the usefulness of SNP markers tagging the genes bc‐3 and I for BCMN and Co‐3 for anthracnose as a selection tool for field resistance. These results show the genetic potential of the lines that are now being tested in target regions to be delivered to smallholder farmers.
A new approach for constructing mock‐Chebyshev grids
Authors: Ali Ibrahimoglu Bayram
Published: September 2021

Polynomial interpolation with equidistant nodes is notoriously unreliable due to the Runge phenomenon and is also numerically ill‐conditioned. By taking advantage of the optimality of the interpolation processes on Chebyshev nodes, one of the best strategies to defeat the Runge phenomenon is to use the mock‐Chebyshev points, which are selected from a satisfactory uniform grid, for polynomial interpolation. Yet little literature exists on the computation of these points. In this study, we investigate the properties of the mock‐Chebyshev nodes and propose a subsetting method for constructing mock‐Chebyshev grids. Moreover, we provide a precise formula for the cardinality of a satisfactory uniform grid. Some numerical experiments using the points obtained by the method are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method, and numerical results are also provided.
An Efficient Monte Carlo Representation of Semi‐Batch Starved‐Feed Acrylate‐Methacrylate Multicomponent Radical Polymerization
Authors: Nasresfahani Amin , Hutchinson Robin A.
Published: September 2021

The introduction of functional groups through radical copolymerization under starved‐feed conditions is a cost‐effective means to produce acrylate resins for coatings applications. The semi‐batch recipes often include a large fraction of nonfunctional acrylates and methacrylates, with a low percentage of functional comonomer added to become statistically distributed within the chains. A previous kinetic Monte Carlo representation is extended to efficiently consider multicomponent recipes consisting of both functional and nonfunctional acrylate (or methacrylate) components by taking advantage of the family type behavior of polymerization mechanisms and rate coefficients. The extended model is used to simulate the semi‐batch production of a terpolymer consisting of 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA), butyl acrylate, and butyl methacrylate, examining the impact of recipe formulation as well as HEA preloading on the distribution of HEA units within the polymer chain sequences. The preload strategy does not provide significant improvement, as the most important factor for minimizing the amount of nonfunctional chains produced is to maintain constant copolymer composition and polymer molecular weight throughout the course of the entire reaction.
Benign fasciculations: A follow‐up study with electrophysiological studies
Authors: Montalvo Alexandre , Swash Michael , de Carvalho Mamede
Published: September 2021

Introduction/Aims

Fasciculations can be symptomatic, yet not progress to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a condition categorized as benign fasciculation syndrome (BFS). We aimed to assess electrodiagnostic changes and clinical course over time in patients with BFS.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of medical records of patients who were referred because of a suspicion of ALS or who had directly asked for a consultation because of a personal concern regarding ALS. All clinical and electromyography (EMG) investigations were performed by the same neurologist, following an established protocol. In addition, laboratory testing and imaging studies were performed as determined to be clinically necessary.

Results

We included 37 subjects (mean age 46 ± 14.7 y, 29 male, 7 healthcare professionals). Most patients had experienced fasciculations in both upper and lower limb muscles (62.2%); the remaining patients had fasciculations only in their lower limbs. EMG in seven subjects showed chronic neurogenic potentials in addition to fasciculation potentials; all of these were older men. Follow‐up data were available in 24 patients (median 4.7 y), 21 with repeat EMGs, including all those with neurogenic EMG changes at baseline (median 6.5 y). Two‐thirds of patients reported symptomatic improvement: 57.1% of those with abnormal EMG and 61.1% with normal EMG. The EMG changes were stable.

Discussion

Prognosis of BFS is favorable, regardless of minor EMG abnormalities. The latter do not necessarily imply progression to ALS.