bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual-band switched unidirectional Ho:YLF ring laser with wavelength tunability
Authors: Wu Jing , Xie Gengchen , Huang Yuping , Liu An , Ju Youlun , Wu Yongfeng
Published: October 2021

Tunable single-longitudinal-mode (SLM) ring Ho:YLF laser with intra-cavity isolator is investigated for 2.05 µm and 2.06 µm band based on single resonator, which is realized dual-band SLM laser conversion by a polarizer. Up to 548 mW SLM power with beam quality factor M2 of 1.1 is achieved at wavelength of 2064.63 nm, and the corresponding slope efficiency is 26.7%. Wavelength tuning ranges from 2063.91 nm to 2065.71 nm and 2050.65nm to 2053.15nm can be demonstrated. The highest SLM power around P12 and R30 CO2 absorption peak of 2064.41 nm and 2050.96 nm are 540 mW and 500 mW, respectively. The power instability within 30 minutes is around 0.14%. As we know, dual-band switched Ho:YLF laser operation at SLM with wavelength tunability is reported for the first time for the potential application of CO2 differential absorption lidar.
Susceptibility and barriers to infection of Colorado mosquitoes with Rift Valley fever virus
Authors: Hartman Daniel A. , Bergren Nicholas A. , Kondash Therese , Schlatmann William , Webb Colleen T. , Kading Rebekah C.
Published: October 2021

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) causes morbidity and mortality in humans and domestic ungulates in sub-Saharan Africa, Egypt, and the Arabian Peninsula. Mosquito vectors transmit RVFV between vertebrates by bite, and also vertically to produce infectious progeny. Arrival of RVFV into the United States by infected mosquitoes or humans could result in significant impacts on food security, human health, and wildlife health. Elucidation of the vectors involved in the post-introduction RVFV ecology is paramount to rapid implementation of vector control. We performed vector competence experiments in which field-collected mosquitoes were orally exposed to an epidemic strain of RVFV via infectious blood meals. We targeted floodwater Aedes species known to feed on cattle, and/or deer species (Aedes melanimon Dyar, Aedes increpitus Dyar, Aedes vexans [Meigen]). Two permanent-water-breeding species were targeted as well: Culiseta inornata (Williston) of unknown competence considering United States populations, and Culex tarsalis Coquillett as a control species for which transmission efficiency is known. We tested the potential for midgut infection, midgut escape (dissemination), ovarian infection (vertical transmission), and transmission by bite (infectious saliva). Tissues were assayed by plaque assay and RT-qPCR, to quantify infectious virus and confirm virus identity. Tissue infection data were analyzed using a within-host model under a Bayesian framework to determine the probabilities of infection outcomes (midgut-limited infection, disseminated infection, etc.) while estimating barriers to infection between tissues. Permanent-water-breeding mosquitoes (Cx. tarsalis and Cs. inornata) exhibited more efficient horizontal transmission, as well as potential for vertical transmission, which is contrary to the current assumptions of RVFV ecology. Barrier estimates trended higher for Aedes spp., suggesting systemic factors in the differences between these species and Cx. tarsalis and Cs. inornata. These data indicate higher potential for vertical transmission than previously appreciated, and support the consensus of RVFV transmission including a broad range of potential vectors.
Searching for meaning is associated with costly prosociality
Authors: Dakin Brodie C. , Laham Simon M. , Tan Nicholas Poh-Jie , Bastian Brock
Published: October 2021

The study of meaning in life has largely centered on its relationship with personal well-being, while a focus on how meaning is related to enhancing the well-being of others has received less research attention. Although searching for meaning may imply lower personal well-being, we find that meaning-seekers are more motivated to perform costly prosocial actions for the sake of others’ well-being, given the perceived meaningfulness of these behaviors. Studies 1–4 (N = 780) show that meaning-seeking correlates with the motivation to engage in a range of costly prosocial behaviors. Meaning-seeking is further shown to be distinct from pursuing happiness in its relationship with costly prosociality (Study 2 & 3) and to share a stronger association with high-cost than low-cost prosociality (Study 3 & 4). Study 5 (N = 370; pre-registered) further shows that the search for meaning is related to costly prosocial behavior in the recent past. While our studies are cross-sectional, the pattern of findings suggests that seeking meaning (rather than happiness) may play an important role in motivating altruistic tendencies.
Induction of trained immunity by influenza vaccination - impact on COVID-19
Authors: Debisarun Priya A. , Gössling Katharina L. , Bulut Ozlem , Kilic Gizem , Zoodsma Martijn , Liu Zhaoli , Oldenburg Marina , Rüchel Nadine , Zhang Bowen , Xu Cheng-Jian , Struycken Patrick , Koeken Valerie A. C. M. , Domínguez-Andrés Jorge , Moorlag Simone J. C. F. M. , Taks Esther , Ostermann Philipp N. , Müller Lisa , Schaal Heiner , Adams Ortwin , Borkhardt Arndt , ten Oever Jaap , van Crevel Reinout , Li Yang , Netea Mihai G.
Published: October 2021

Non-specific protective effects of certain vaccines have been reported, and long-term boosting of innate immunity, termedtrained immunity, has been proposed as one of the mechanisms mediating these effects. Several epidemiological studies suggested cross-protection between influenza vaccination and COVID-19. In a large academic Dutch hospital, we found that SARS-CoV-2 infection was less common among employees who had received a previous influenza vaccination: relative risk reductions of 37% and 49% were observed following influenza vaccination during the first and second COVID-19 waves, respectively. The quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine induced a trained immunity program that boosted innate immune responses against various viral stimuli and fine-tuned the anti-SARS-CoV-2 response, which may result in better protection against COVID-19. Influenza vaccination led to transcriptional reprogramming of monocytes and reduced systemic inflammation. These epidemiological and immunological data argue for potential benefits of influenza vaccination against COVID-19, and future randomized trials are warranted to test this possibility.
CD4+ T cell immunity to Salmonella is transient in the circulation
Authors: Peres Newton G. , Wang Nancy , Whitney Paul , Engel Sven , Shreenivas Meghanashree M. , Comerford Ian , Hocking Dianna M. , Erazo Anna B. , Förster Irmgard , Kupz Andreas , Gebhardt Thomas , McColl Shaun R. , McSorley Stephen J. , Bedoui Sammy , Strugnell Richard A.
Published: October 2021

WhileSalmonella entericais seen as an archetypal facultative intracellular bacterial pathogen where protection is mediated by CD4+T cells, identifying circulating protective cells has proved very difficult, inhibiting steps to identify key antigen specificities. Exploiting a mouse model of vaccination, we show that the spleens of C57BL/6 mice vaccinated with live-attenuatedSalmonellaserovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) strains carried a pool of IFN-γ+CD4+T cells that could adoptively transfer protection, but only transiently. CirculatingSalmonella-reactive CD4+T cells expressed the liver-homing chemokine receptor CXCR6, accumulated over time in the liver and assumed phenotypic characteristics associated with tissue-associated T cells. Liver memory CD4+T cells showed TCR selection bias and their accumulation in the liver could be inhibited by blocking CXCL16. These data showed that the circulation of CD4+T cells mediating immunity toSalmonellais limited to a brief window after whichSalmonella-specific CD4+T cells migrate to peripheral tissues. Our observations highlight the importance of triggering tissue-specific immunity against systemic infections.
Interaction between coxsackievirus B3 infection and α-synuclein in models of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Park Soo Jin , Jin Uram , Park Sang Myun
Published: October 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases. PD is pathologically characterized by the death of midbrain dopaminergic neurons and the accumulation of intracellular protein inclusions called Lewy bodies or Lewy neurites. The major component of Lewy bodies is α-synuclein (α-syn). Prion-like propagation of α-syn has emerged as a novel mechanism in the progression of PD. This mechanism has been investigated to reveal factors that initiate Lewy pathology with the aim of preventing further progression of PD. Here, we demonstrate that coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) infection can induce α-syn-associated inclusion body formation in neurons which might act as a trigger for PD. The inclusion bodies contained clustered organelles, including damaged mitochondria with α-syn fibrils. α-Syn overexpression accelerated inclusion body formation and induced more concentric inclusion bodies. In CVB3-infected mice brains, α-syn aggregates were observed in the cell body of midbrain neurons. Additionally, α-syn overexpression favored CVB3 replication and related cytotoxicity. α-Syn transgenic mice had a low survival rate, enhanced CVB3 replication, and exhibited neuronal cell death, including that of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. These results may be attributed to distinct autophagy-related pathways engaged by CVB3 and α-syn. This study elucidated the mechanism of Lewy body formation and the pathogenesis of PD associated with CVB3 infection.
Through the House of Slaves: A memorial to the origins of the Black diaspora
Authors: Albert Taneshia W. , Tan Lindsay
Published: October 2021

The debate surrounding the removal of statues of imperialists, slave owners and slave traders raises the question of how to memorialize sombre historical truths with cultural humility. The House of Slaves on Gorée Island, Senegal, represents the connections of cultural identity, belonging and placemaking reclaimed from the enduring cultural trauma of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. Using daughtering as a methodology (: 1), the authors present a discussion about the symbolic nature of art that memorializes a transformational passage shaped by imperialism and racist ideology. The critical relationship between art and culture as embodied in an architectural form is explored through (1) the anthropological notion of belonging as membership and identity, (2) the direct human affective/emotional impact of architecture as art in the social and political issues of past and present and (3) art as an intracultural interaction based in cultural trauma and community spaces. Theoretical Framework: critical race theory. Method: autoethnographic narrative. Results: The House of Slaves speaks of a critical cultural moment that shaped the creation of a new cultural diaspora. This historical structure has become a sacred, spiritual Mecca for those whose ancestors were displaced from continental Africa. The remains of its architectural form reveal the forgotten history of slave exploitation that happened here. This memorial speaks of the continued struggle to make a space safe for Black bodies, Black design and Black identity within the public sphere. The cultural memory of this artefact, and all moments and memorials shaped by imperialism and racism, haunt our present reality. Just as art played a role in celebrating now-outdated narratives, it may also reframe these sombre historical truths. Art can elevate contemporary narratives that embrace cultural humility and speak to cultural competence through the continued first-person experiences of these monuments, spaces and artefacts.
Macomb must fall: Geographies of conquest
Authors: Lucken Walter
Published: October 2021

This article analyses the statue of General Alexander Macomb, which has stood at the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Michigan Avenue in downtown Detroit since the early 1900s. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of controversy about the statue and the connections of Alexander Macomb to settler–colonial genocide and racial slavery, a dispute which connects larger struggles over controversial monuments to the Black Lives Matter and Idle No More movements. To analyse the rhetorical work of the statue, I engage Richard Marback’s theories of the material rhetoric of monuments in colonial and urban space alongside studies by Katherine McKittrick and others on the relation between settler colonialism and anti-Black racism, to situate the statue within a larger grammar of racial–colonial power that organizes the political geography of the Great Lakes region. Ultimately, I argue that the General Alexander Macomb statue and other colonial monuments serve as nodes binding together material and symbolic geographies of power and suturing slavery to settler colonialism.
Philebus 23c-26d: Peras, Apeiron, and Meikton as Measure Theory
Authors: Rudebusch George
Published: October 2021

At Philebus 23c4-26d10 Socrates makes a division into three kinds: Unbounded (apeiron), Bound (peras), and Mix (meikton). I review problems for the main interpretations of Unbounded and Mix and review kinds of scales defined in abstract measurement theory. Then I take 23c4-26d10 speech by speech, interpreting the Unbounded as a kind containing partial scales, Bound as the kind containing the relations and quantities needed to turn partial scales into appropriate ratio scales, and Mix as the kind containing ratio scales appropriate for the good things that come to be in the world.
GENDER SPECIFIC ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN FRAILTY AND BODY COMPOSITION
Authors: Walters D. , Abellan Van Kan G. , Cesari M. , Vidal K. , Rolland Y. , Vellas B.
Published: October 2021

Frailty is a widespread geriatric syndrome, but its relationship with body composition is largely unknown. Objectives: Assess the relationship between body composition and frailty in older persons. Design, participants and setting: Cross-sectional data analyses in 120 community-dwelling older persons (50 men, 70 women, mean age 78.5 ± 6 yr). Measurements: Frailty was measured according to Fried’s criteria and calculated as a score, and also a binary variable. Anthropometric measures were obtained (height, weight), and body composition (total lean body mass, appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM), total fat mass, and percentage fat), assessed by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Multiple regression and logistic regression analyses stratified by gender were conducted. Results: Frailty, as a binary measure, was more prevalent in women than men (67.1% vs 46% p=0.04). Prevalence of low muscle mass (ASM/ht2) was higher in men than in women (40.0% vs 32.9%, p=0.04). Using gender-specific percentage fat cut-scores (27% men, 38% women, respectively) obesity was more prevalent in women than men (58.6% vs 34%, respectively, p=0.01). Multiple regression models showed age as an independent associated factor of frailty in men (β 0.310, p=0.009) and women (β .581 p<0.001). ASM/ht2 was a significant associated factor in men (β -0.517, p<0.001) and trended towards significance in women (β -0.188, p=0.06). Percentage fat was a significant associated factor in women only (β 0.234, p=0.02). Logistic regression with frailty as a binary dependent variable yielded similar results. Conclusion: In this sample of older adults, the significant associated factor of frailty in men was ASM/ht2, whereas it was percentage fat in women. These associations were independent of age. With increasing longevity and the high prevalence of sarcopenia and obesity in older populations, these findings have public health implications. Larger sample and specifically designed studies are needed in order to confirm and extend these findings.
Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth in Bangladeshi Infants Is Associated With Growth Stunting in a Longitudinal Cohort
Authors: Donowitz Jeffrey R. , Pu Zhen , Lin Ye , Alam Masud , Ferdous Tahsin , Shama Talat , Taniuchi Mami , Islam Md Ohedul , Kabir Mamun , Nayak Uma , Faruque Abu S.G. , Haque Rashidul , Ma Jennie Z. , Petri William A.
Published: October 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is common in children from low-income countries and has been cross-sectionally associated with growth stunting. We sought to determine whether SIBO was associated with poor growth and neurodevelopmental in a longitudinal analysis.

METHODS:

We measured SIBO by glucose hydrogen breath test (GHBT) at 18, 52, 78, and 104 weeks of life in a prospective longitudinal birth cohort of Bangladeshi children. Sociodemographic information and measures of enteric inflammation were analyzed as covariates. Diarrheal samples were tested for enteropathogens using polymerase chain reaction. Regression models were created using standardized mean GHBT area under the H2 curve (AUC) to determine associations with linear growth and cognitive, language, and motor scores on the Bayley-III Scales of Infant and Toddler Development at 2 years. We also investigated associations between GHBT AUC and enteropathogen exposure.

RESULTS:

A 1-ppm increase in standardized mean GHBT AUC was associated with a 0.01-SD decrease in length-for-age Z score (P = 0.03) and a 0.11-point decrease in Bayley language score (P = 0.05) at 2 years of age in adjusted analysis. Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli, Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli, Giardia, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi were associated with increased GHBT AUC, whereas Clostridium difficile, norovirus GI, sapovirus, rotavirus, and Cryptosporidium were associated with decreased GHBT AUC. None were consistent across all 4 time points.

DISCUSSION:

SIBO in the first 2 years of life is associated with growth stunting and decreased language ability in Bangladeshi infants and may represent a modifiable risk factor in poor growth and neurodevelopment in low-income countries.
In Silico Prediction of The Antiangiogenesis Activity of Heliannuol Lactone sesquiterpenes Compounds from Sunflower (Heliannthus annuus L.)
Authors: Muti'ah Roihatul , Rahmawati Eka Kartini , Dewi Tanaya Jati Dhrama , Firdausy Alif Firman
Published: October 2021

Heliannuols are sesquiterpenes lactone compounds considered to have anticancer activity on the brain cancer. Cancer cell growth is related to overexpression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) as a pro-angiogenic pathway, which becomes the main factor of angiogenesis and progression. This research aims to predict anti-angiogenic, toxicity, and physicochemical properties of heliannuols. Physicochemical properties were predicted referred to Lipinski’s rule of five (Lipinski RO5), while absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion were predicted by using pkCSM online tool. The toxicity of compounds was predicted by using Protox II online tool, and interaction of the ligand with receptors was predicted by conducting validation (VEGFR-2 (PDB ID: 3WZE)) and molecular docking using Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD). The result revealed that Lipinski RO5 compatible heliannuols had the lowest LD50 2148 mg/kg predictive LD50 predictive values of heliannuol D. The docking result was described by rerank score (RS), representing the bound energy form and compares with Sorafenib as a reference drug. Five medium strength VEGFR-2 chemical substances with rerank score: heliannuol A -56.9496, heliannuol heliannuol B -70.83646, heliannuol C -61,3292, heliannuol D -49.61646, and heliannuol E -75.5164. No better rerank score was recorded for all inhibitors than sorafenib (-128.0683). The heliannuols interacted with amino acid residues Glu885 and Asp1046 that probably conferred the antiangiogenic activity. Taken together, heliannuol D had the greates activity to the target protein and complied Lipinski RO5.Keywords: anti-angiogenic, toxicity, heliannuol, VEGFR-2, brain cancer, molecular docking.
Biomass Feedstocks for Liquid Biofuels Production in Hawaii & Tropical Islands: A Review
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Cheng Shuo , Cross Jeffrey Scott
Published: October 2021

Many tropical islands, including Aruba, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Pacific Island countries, are entirely dependent on importing fossil fuels to meet their energy demands. Due to global warming, improving energy use efficiency and developing regionally available renewable energy resources are necessary to reduce carbon emissions. This review analyzed and identified biomass feedstocks to produce liquid biofuels targeting tropical islands, particularly focusing on Hawaii as a case study. Transportation and energy generation sectors consume 25.5% and 11.6%, respectively, of Hawaii's imported fossil fuels. Various nonedible feedstocks with information on their availability, production, and average yields of oils, fiber, sugars, and lipid content for liquid biofuels production are identified to add value to the total energy mix. The available biomass conversion technologies and production costs are summarized. In addition, a section on potentially using sewage sludge to produce biodiesel is also included. Based on a comparative analysis of kamani, croton, pongamia, jatropha, energycane, Leucaena hybrid, gliricidia, and eucalyptus feedstock resources, this study proposes that Hawaii and other similar tropical regions can potentially benefit from growing and producing economical liquid biofuels locally, especially for the transportation and electricity generation sectors
About every convex set in any generic Riemannian manifold
Authors: Lytchak Alexander , Petrunin Anton
Published: October 2021

We give a necessary condition on a geodesic in a Riemannian manifold that can run in some convex hypersurface.
As a corollary, we obtain peculiar properties that hold true for every convex set in any generic Riemannian manifold

(
M
,
g
)

{(M,g)}

.
For example, if a convex set in

(
M
,
g
)

{(M,g)}

is bounded by a smooth hypersurface, then it is strictly convex.
The impact of parity and maternal obesity on the fetal outcomes of a non-selected Lower Saxony population
Authors: Brodowski Lars , Rochow Niels , Yousuf Efrah I. , Kohls Fabian , von Kaisenberg Constantin S. , Berlage Silvia , Voigt Manfred
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Maternal obesity during pregnancy is associated with adverse intrauterine events and fetal outcomes and may increase the risk of obesity and metabolic disease development in offspring. Higher parity, regardless of socioeconomic status, is associated with increased maternal body mass index (BMI). In this study, we examined the relationship between parity, maternal obesity, and fetal outcomes in a large sample of mother-neonate pairs from Lower Saxony, Germany.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined pseudonymized data of a non-selected singleton cohort from Lower Saxony’s statewide quality assurance initiative. 448,963 cases were included. Newborn outcomes were assessed in relation to maternal BMI and parity.

Results

Maternal obesity was associated with an increased risk of placental insufficiency, chorioamnionitis, and fetal distress while giving birth. This effect was present across all parity groups. Fetal presentation did not differ between BMI groups, except for the increased risk of high longitudinal position and shoulder dystocia in obese women. Maternal obesity was also associated with an increased risk of premature birth, low arterial cord blood pH and low 5-min APGAR scores.

Conclusions

Maternal obesity increases the risk of adverse neonatal outcomes. There is a positive correlation between parity and increased maternal BMI. Weight-dependent fetal risk factors increase with parity, while parity-dependent outcomes occur less frequently in multipara. Prevention and intervention programs for women planning to become pregnant can be promising measures to reduce pregnancy and birth complications.
High quality of 58-month life in lung cancer patient with brain metastases sequentially treated with gefitinib and osimertinib
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhang Xiaowen , Wang Fang , Feng Yan , Tang Huaping
Published: October 2021

Brain metastases (BMs) and bone metastases seriously affect the prognosis of lung cancer patients. How to optimize the use of existing targeted drugs is an important way to address the clinical needs of the central nervous system in the individualized treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this report, we describe an NSCLC patient with BMs who survived for 58 months, which is the longest survival case among lung cancer patients with BMs. The patient was initially diagnosed with lung cancer more than 5 years ago with simultaneous brain, bone, and lung metastases. After gefitinib resistance, she received osimertinib in sequence with no progress for 58 months in total and maintained very good quality of life.
Plasmonic interference modulation for broadband nanofocusing
Authors: Li Shaobo , Yang Shuming , Wang Fei , Liu Qiang , Cheng Biyao , Rosenwaks Yossi
Published: October 2021

Metallic plasmonic probes have been successfully applied in near-field imaging, nanolithography, and Raman enhanced spectroscopy because of their ability to squeeze light into nanoscale and provide significant electric field enhancement. Most of these probes rely on nanometric alignment of incident beam and resonant structures with limited spectral bandwidth. This paper proposes and experimentally demonstrates an asymmetric fiber tip for broadband interference nanofocusing within its full optical wavelengths (500–800 nm) at the nanotip with 10 nm apex. The asymmetric geometry consisting of two semicircular slits rotates plasmonic polarization and converts the linearly polarized plasmonic mode to the radially polarized plasmonic mode when the linearly polarized beam couples to the optical fiber. The three-dimensional plasmonic modulation induces circumference interference and nanofocus of surface plasmons, which is significantly different from the nanofocusing through plasmon propagation and plasmon evolution. The plasmonic interference modulation provides fundamental insights into the plasmon engineering and has important applications in plasmon nanophotonic technologies.
Dynamic Rhythmogenic Network States Drive Differential Opioid Responses in theIn VitroRespiratory Network
Authors: Burgraff Nicholas J. , Bush Nicholas E. , Ramirez Jan M. , Baertsch Nathan A.
Published: October 2021

Death from opioid overdose is typically caused by opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD). A particularly dangerous characteristic of OIRD is its apparent unpredictability. The respiratory consequences of opioids can be surprisingly inconsistent, even within the same individual. Despite significant clinical implications, most studies have focused on average dose–r esponses rather than individual variation, and there remains little insight into the etiology of this apparent unpredictability. The preBötzinger complex (preBötC) in the ventral medulla is an important site for generating the respiratory rhythm and OIRD. Here, using male and female C57-Bl6 micein vitro, we demonstrate that the preBötC can assume different network states depending on the excitability of the preBötC and the intrinsic membrane properties of preBötC neurons. These network states predict the functional consequences of opioids in the preBötC, and depending on network state, respiratory rhythmogenesis can be either stabilized or suppressed by opioids. We hypothesize that the dynamic nature of preBötC rhythmogenic properties, required to endow breathing with remarkable flexibility, also plays a key role in the dangerous unpredictability of OIRD.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTOpioids can cause unpredictable, life-threatening suppression of breathing. This apparent unpredictability makes clinical management of opioids difficult while also making it challenging to define the underlying mechanisms of OIRD. Here, we find in brainstem slices that the preBötC, an opioid-sensitive subregion of the brainstem, has an optimal configuration of cellular and network properties that results in a maximally stable breathing rhythm. These properties are dynamic, and the state of each individual preBötC network relative to the optimal configuration of the network predicts how vulnerable rhythmogenesis is to the effects of opioids. These insights establish a framework for understanding how endogenous and exogenous modulation of the rhythmogenic state of the preBötC can increase or decrease the risk of OIRD.
“Tripartite Synapses” in Taste Buds: A Role for Type I Glial-like Taste Cells
Authors: Rodriguez Yuryanni A. , Roebber Jennifer K. , Dvoryanchikov Gennady , Makhoul Vivien , Roper Stephen D. , Chaudhari Nirupa
Published: October 2021

In mammalian taste buds, Type I cells comprise half of all cells. These are termed “glial-like” based on morphologic and molecular features, but there are limited studies describing their function. We tested whether Type I cells sense chemosensory activation of adjacent chemosensory (i.e., Types II and III) taste bud cells, similar to synaptic glia. UsingGad2;;GCaMP3 mice of both sexes, we confirmed by immunostaining that, within taste buds, GCaMP expression is predominantly in Type I cells (with no Type II and ≈28% Type III cells expressing weakly). In dissociated taste buds, GCaMP+ Type I cells responded to bath-applied ATP (10-100 μm) but not to 5-HT (transmitters released by Type II or III cells, respectively). Type I cells also did not respond to taste stimuli (5 μmcycloheximide, 1 mmdenatonium). In lingual slice preparations also, Type I cells responded to bath-applied ATP (10-100 μm). However, when taste buds in the slice were stimulated with bitter tastants (cycloheximide, denatonium, quinine), Type I cells responded robustly. Taste-evoked responses of Type I cells in the slice preparation were significantly reduced by desensitizing purinoceptors or by purinoceptor antagonists (suramin, PPADS), and were essentially eliminated by blocking synaptic ATP release (carbenoxolone) or degrading extracellular ATP (apyrase). Thus, taste-evoked release of afferent ATP from type II chemosensory cells, in addition to exciting gustatory afferent fibers, also activates glial-like Type I taste cells. We speculate that Type I cells sense chemosensory activation and that they participate in synaptic signaling, similarly to glial cells at CNS tripartite synapses.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMost studies of taste buds view the chemosensitive excitable cells that express taste receptors as the sole mediators of taste detection and transmission to the CNS. Type I “glial-like” cells, with their ensheathing morphology, are mostly viewed as responsible for clearing neurotransmitters and as the “glue” holding the taste bud together. In the present study, we demonstrate that, when intact taste buds respond to their natural stimuli, Type I cells sense the activation of the chemosensory cells by detecting the afferent transmitter. Because Type I cells synthesize GABA, a known gliotransmitter, and cognate receptors are present on both presynaptic and postsynaptic elements, Type I cells may participate in GABAergic synaptic transmission in the manner of astrocytes at tripartite synapses.
Corticosteroids for Acute Orbital Cellulitis
Authors: Leszczynska Maria Anna , Sochet Anthony Alexander , Nguyen Anh Thy H. , Mateus Jazmine , Morrison John Michael
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVES

Standard treatment of children hospitalized for acute orbital cellulitis includes systemic antibiotics. Recent data from single-center studies suggest the addition of systemic corticosteroids may hasten clinical improvement and reduce hospital length of stay (LOS). We investigate the potential relationship between corticosteroid exposure and duration of hospitalization for pediatric orbital cellulitis.

METHODS

Using Pediatric Health Information System registry data from 51 children’s facilities, we performed a retrospective cohort study of children hospitalized for orbital cellulitis <18 years of age from 2007 to 2018. The primary study outcome was hospital LOS. Secondary outcomes included frequency of surgical interventions, PICU admission, and 30-day related-cause readmission.

RESULTS

Of the 5645 children included for study, 1347 (24%) were prescribed corticosteroids within 2 days of admission. Corticosteroid prescription was not associated with LOS in analyses adjusted for age; presence of meningitis, abscess, or vision issues; and operative episode and PICU admission within 2 days (eβ = 1.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.97–1.06). Corticosteroid exposure was associated with operative episodes after 2 days of hospitalization (odds ratio = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.29–3.27) and 30-day readmission (odds ratio = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.52–3.78) among patients with a primary diagnosis of orbital cellulitis.

CONCLUSIONS

In this database query, we were not able to detect a reduction in LOS associated with corticosteroid exposure during hospitalization for orbital cellulitis. Corticosteroid prescription was associated with PICU admission and operative episodes after 2 days of hospitalization. Before the adoption of routine corticosteroid use, prospective, randomized control trials are needed.
Coarse-graining strategies for predicting properties of closely related polymer architectures: A case study of PEEK and PEKK
Authors: Chattaraj Sandipan , Basu Sumit
Published: October 2021

The ability of atomistic and coarse-grained models to discern between two polymers of very similar architecture is examined. To this end, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and polyether ketone ketone (PEKK) are chosen. The difference in glass transition temperature and the similarity in compressive responses of the two polymers are captured by all-atom models. A coarse-graining scheme, with 6 beads per monomer and 3 types of beads, leads to a good approximation of the structure and packing of chains of PEEK and PEKK. The CG model reproduces differences in weakly rate-dependent properties such as $${T}_{\mathrm{g}}$$

T
g

. Comparison between strongly rate-dependent uniaxial stress–strain responses of these two polymers requires a knowledge of the scaling between physical strain rate in one to the effective rate in the other. The scaling can be approximately determined by comparing the variation of yield strength with strain rate, obtained from small-sized simulations.

Graphic abstract
Nystagmus may be the first neurological sign in early stages of spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Authors: Gama Maria Thereza Drumond , Rezende Filho Flávio Moura , Rezende Thiago Junqueira Ribeiro , Braga Neto Pedro , França Junior Marcondes Cavalcante , Pedroso José Luiz , Barsottini Orlando Graziani Povoas
Published: October 2021

Abstract Background: Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is the most common autosomal dominant spinocerebellar ataxia worldwide. Almost all patients with SCA3 exhibit nystagmus and/or saccades impairment. Objective: To investigate the presence of nystagmus as an early neurological manifestation, before ataxia, in some patients with SCA3 in the first six months of the disease. Methods: We evaluated a series of 155 patients with clinically and molecularly proven SCA3 between 2013 and 2020. Data regarding sex, age, age at onset, disease duration, CAG repeat expansion length, first symptom, presence of ataxia, scores on SARA and ICARS scales, and presence and characteristics of nystagmus were collected. Results: We identified seven patients with symptomatic SCA3 who presented with isolated nystagmus. In these seven individuals the age at onset ranged from 24 to 57 years, and disease duration from four to six months. Conclusions: Our study showed that nystagmus may be the first neurological sign in SCA3. This clinical observation reinforces the idea that the neurodegenerative process in SCA3 patients may start in vestibular system connections or in flocculonodular lobe. This study adds relevant information about pre-symptomatic features in SCA3 that may work as basis for a better understanding of brain degeneration and for future therapeutic clinical trials.
Brief version of the CAMCOG for illiterate older adults with Alzheimer’s dementia
Authors: Cecato Juliana Francisca , Balduino Everton , Martinelli José Eduardo , Aprahamian Ivan
Published: October 2021

Abstract Background: The Cambridge Cognition Examination (CAMCOG) is one of the most used cognitive assessment batteries for older adults. Objective: To evaluate a brief version of the CAMCOG for illiterate older adults (CAMCOG-BILL) with Alzheimer’s dementia (AD) and healthy controls (CG). Methods: Cross-sectional case-control study with 246 illiterate older adults (AD [n=159] and CG [n=87], composed by healthy seniors without cognitive complaints) who never attended school or took reading or writing lessons. Diagnosis of AD was established based on the NIA-AA and DSM-5 criteria. All participants were assessed with the CAMCOG by a researcher blinded for diagnosis. To assess the consistency of the chosen CAMCOG-BILL sub-items, we performed a binary logistic regression analysis. Results: Both the CAMCOG and the CAMCOG-BILL had satisfactory psychometric properties. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.932 (p<0.001) for the original version of CAMCOG and 0.936 for the CAMCOG-BILL. Using a cut-off score of ≥60 (CAMCOG) and ≥44 (CAMCOG-BILL), both instruments had the same sensitivity and specificity (89 and 96%, respectively). Conclusion: The CAMCOG-BILL may be a preferred tool because of the reduced test burden for this vulnerable subgroup of illiterate patients with dementia.
The association between intracranial pressure and optic nerve sheath diameter on patients with head trauma
Authors: Çelik Kaan , Demiryurek Bekir Enes
Published: October 2021

Abstract Background: Although intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring is the gold standard method for measuring intracranial pressure after traumatic brain injury, optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) measurement with ultrasound (US) is also used in the evaluation of ICP. Objective: To investigate the association between a series of OSND measurements by US and changes in clinical presentation of the patient. Methods: Prospective study including 162 patients with traumatic brain injury. Age, sex, cerebral CT findings, ONSD levels by US at minutes 0, 60, and 120, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) within same period, change of consciousness, treatment, and mortality data were reviewed. The association of ONSD levels with GCS, change of consciousness, treatment, and mortality was evaluated. Results: There was no difference in ONSD changes in the patients’ sample within the period (p=0.326). ONSD significantly increased in patients who died (p<0.001), but not in those who survived (p=0.938). There was no significant change in ONSD of the patients who received anti-edema therapy (p=801), but significantly increased ONSD values were found in those who received anti-edema therapy (p=0.03). Patients without change of consciousness did not have any significant change in ONSD (p=0.672), but ONSD values increased in patients who consciousness became worse, and decreased in those who presented a recovery (respectively, p<0.001, p=0.002). A negative correlation was detected between ONSD values and GSC values measured at primary, secondary, and tertiary time periods (for all p<0.001). Conclusions: ONSD follow-up may be useful to monitor ICP increase in patients with acute traumatic brain injury.
Distância espacial, distância social: relações entre distintas categorias sociais na sociedade brasileira em tempos de COVID-19
Authors: Silveira Liane Maria Braga da , Najar Alberto Lopes
Published: October 2021

Resumo Considerado como uma das formas de servidão atuais, o trabalho doméstico ganha destaque com a grande demanda por cuidados de crianças e idosos, reconhecido como serviço essencial durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Poucas categorias foram tão afetadas pela crise sanitária e social associada à COVID-19, devido à sua situação precária - trabalhista, salarial, exposição e vulnerabilidade - face à pandemia. A partir de dados etnográficos de pesquisa doutoral realizada em 2011 de uma rede de babás, que por vezes atuavam como trabalhadoras domésticas e em diálogo com a literatura da teoria do care, discute-se como as experiências de distância social foram amplificadas pela pandemia de COVID-19 e atualizam as dinâmicas que operam nas relações entre distintas categorias sociais na sociedade brasileira, antevendo o que poderá ser um novo elemento na sociabilidade existente. Como conclusão, discutimos as chamadas culturas de servidão, destacando que, nesses casos, a servidão não implica rigidez, mas sim plasticidade. O que faz com que o afeto se transforme numa commodity que valoriza as trabalhadoras domésticas oriundas da América Latina, diferenciadamente no mercado de trabalho, onde essa característica é uma vantagem comparativa que dinamiza o mercado de afetos.
As reformas dos sistemas de saúde da América Latina: influências neoliberais e desafios aos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável
Authors: Göttems Leila Bernarda Donato , Camilo Luciano de Paula , Mavrot Céline , Mollo Maria de Lourdes Rollemberg
Published: October 2021

Resumo Analisam-se as características das reformas dos sistemas de saúde de países da América Latina e Caribe (ALC), a evolução dos gastos públicos e dos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento do Milênio (ODM). Discutem-se as influências neoliberais nas reformas e as possíveis consequências para os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) que os sucederam. Estudo comparado de países selecionados. Dados extraídos das plataformas CEPALStat, Global Health Observatory e MDG Indicators e de relatórios Health in the Americas disponíveis no Repositorio Institucional para Compartir Información da Organização Panamericana de Saúde. Revisão não exaustiva de literatura. As reformas foram divididas em três períodos: até 1990 predominou a lógica nacional solidária regulada; de 1990 a 2000 avançou-se para uma lógica concorrencial de mercado; de 2001 a 2015, evoluiu-se para programas de lógica pública, mantendo-se a concorrência entre prestadores de serviços. Os gastos públicos oscilaram e as metas dos ODM analisadas não foram completamente cumpridas. As mudanças dos sistemas de saúde seguiram as configurações dos Estados nacionais apregoadas pelo neoliberalismo, com lógica concorrencial de mercado, fragilizando o sistema de cuidados e o alcance dos ODS.
Insegurança pública: exceção como rotina, excepcionalidade como o normal no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Authors: Muniz Jacqueline de Oliveira , Cecchetto Fátima Regina
Published: October 2021

Resumo Este artigo é uma construção ensaística sobre a produção da insegurança pública, seus rendimentos em termos de um regime do medo e seus efeitos de normalização das práticas de exceção ao estado de direito. Beneficia-se do trabalho etnográfico com a juventude de favela, policiais militares e guardas civis do Estado do Rio de Janeiro e, ainda, do levantamento de fontes documentais e jornalísticas na internet, no período de 2017 a 2020. As reflexões são orientadas pela discussão da produção da insegurança como um projeto de poder. A lógica da “proteção” assume o lugar da segurança. Os resultados apontam para a fabricação de ameaças difusas e imediatas como recurso para a imposição de uma economia política do controle e da regulação social. A crise sanitária aguçou a crise da segurança, mantendo as pessoas em regime de alerta, em urgência, vivendo o imediato. A insegurança coletiva não é um resultado necessariamente indesejado. Ela tem sido um resultado esperado e eficaz. Um meio estratégico para se produzir e sustentar um projeto de poder excludente e desigual, para poucos.
PRESENÇA E PROPÓSITO DO CIRCO SOCIAL: UMA INICIATIVA POPULAR AUTÔNOMA
Authors: Tonini Giovana , Bairrão José Francisco Miguel Henriques
Published: October 2021

Resumo O circo, patrimônio artístico da humanidade, possui como modelo de transmissão tradicionalmente a família. Na contemporaneidade, a existência do circo se propaga também pelo circo social, que utiliza a arte circense como meio para o desenvolvimento integral de jovens marginalizados. Em Ribeirão Preto, há um caso (Sustentáculos) emergente na periferia, em que uma líder-circense-professora se apropria do circo para contribuir na formação psicossocial dos infanto-juvenis da sua comunidade. O objetivo do estudo foi investigar o arranjo do Sustentáculos tendo como esteio o circo social, a fim de comparar as propostas. A etnopsicanálise guiou o método através de observação e entrevistas; os colaboradores foram a líder e oito crianças; os encontros realizados semanalmente. Perceberam-se semelhanças fundamentais, porém um caráter mais pedagógico e estruturado no circo social, por trabalharem em rede e com apoio financeiro. No Sustentáculos, há uma marca clara do artístico propriamente dito, um viés político-contestador e autonomia do projeto.
CONDIÇÕES DE TRABALHO DE PSICÓLOGAS(OS) RESULTANTES DO PROCESSO DE TERCEIRIZAÇÃO NA ASSISTÊNCIA SOCIAL
Authors: Brandolt Catheline Rubim , Coelho-Lima Fellipe , Motta Roberta Fin , Santos Samara Silva dos
Published: October 2021

Resumo Este artigo buscou identificar as condições de trabalho de psicólogas(os) decorrentes da terceirização do trabalho na Política de Assistência Social. Participaram da pesquisa 12 profissionais que atuaram nos serviços socioassistenciais entre os anos de 2013 a 2017, em um município do interior do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de entrevistas e analisados a partir da Análise de Conteúdo. Entre os resultados identificou-se que a precarização do trabalho no Sistema Único da Assistência Social (SUAS) perpassa o processo de seleção, as formas diversas de contratos, seus decorrentes itens (carga horária, função, remuneração, Educação Permanente e encerramento) e o estabelecimento de relações baseadas no medo e intimidação. Tais informações refletem um processo de despotenciliazação das trabalhadoras, uma vez que elas são as principais ferramentas de trabalho desta política.
Effect of orthodontic forces on root length of immature mandibular second premolars: a split-mouth randomized clinical trial
Authors: DALAIE Kazem , BADIEE Mohammadreza , BEHNAZ Mohammad , KAVOUSINEJAD Shahab
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the effect of orthodontic forces on changes in root length of immature mandibular second premolars. Methods: Sixty-four mandibular second premolars (MSP) with immature apices (left and right sides) of 32 patients aged between 10 and 13 years were evaluated. Orthodontic treatment was started after obtaining periapical radiographs (T1) from the MSPs of each patient. Brackets were bonded, except the ones of MSPs (left or right by random as control MSP, and the other side as test MSP). After 9-12 months, a second periapical radiograph (T2) was obtained from the MSPs of each patient. Then, brackets were bonded to the control MSPs, which were not bonded before. After 18 ± 3 months, a third periapical radiograph (T3) was obtained. Changes in root length were evaluated by using a new formula. The test and control MSPs at T1, T2 and T3 were compared using repeated measures ANOVA and parametric tests. P-value smaller than 0.05 was statistically significant. Results: There was no significant difference between the test and control groups in the mean root length of MSP at T1 (p= 0.48) and T3 (p= 0.078). The root length at T2 (p= 0.001) was significantly different between test and control MSPs, and the test group showed longer root length than the control group. Conclusions: Orthodontic force applied for leveling and alignment of immature MSPs may not have destructive effects on the roots, and may accelerates root formation in short-term. Normal root length was achieved at the end of root development.