bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the AGN-merger connection in Arp 245 I: Nuclear star formation and gas outflow in NGC 2992
Authors: Guolo-Pereira Muryel , Ruschel-Dutra Daniel , Storchi-Bergmann Thaisa , Schnorr-Müller Allan , Cid Fernandes Roberto , Couto Guilherme , Dametto Natacha , Hernandez-Jimenez Jose A
Published: January 2021

Galaxy mergers are central to our understanding of galaxy formation, especially within the context of hierarchical models. Besides having a large impact on the star formation history, mergers are also able to influence gas motions at the centre of galaxies and trigger an active galactic nucleus (AGN). In this paper, we present a case study of the Seyfert galaxy NGC 2992, which together with NGC 2993 forms the early-stage merger system Arp 245. Using Gemini Multi-Object Spectrograph integral field unit data from the inner 1.1 kpc of the galaxy, we were able to spatially resolve the stellar populations, the ionization mechanism, and kinematics of ionized gas. From full spectral synthesis, we found that the stellar population is primarily composed by old metal-rich stars (t ≥ 1.4 Gyr, Z ≥ 2.0 Z⊙), with a contribution of at most 30 per cent of the light from a young and metal-poor population (t ≤ 100 Myr, Z ≤ 1.0 Z⊙). We detect H α and H β emission from the broad-line region with a full width at half-maximum of ∼2000 $\rm km\, s^{-1}$. The narrow-line region kinematics presents two main components: one from gas orbiting the galaxy disc and a blueshifted (velocity ≈ −200 $\rm km\, s^{-1}$) outflow, possibly correlated with the radio emission, with mass outflow rate of ∼2 M⊙ yr−1 and a kinematic power of ∼2 × 1040 erg s−1 ($\dot{E}_{\mathrm{ out}}$/Lbol ≈ 0.2 per cent). We also show even though the main ionization mechanism is the AGN radiation, ionization by young stars and shocks may also contribute to the emission line ratios presented in the innermost region of the galaxy.
Ionization degree and magnetic diffusivity in star-forming clouds with different metallicities
Authors: Nakauchi Daisuke , Omukai Kazuyuki , Susa Hajime
Published: January 2021

Magnetic fields play such essential roles in star formation as transporting angular momentum and driving outflows from a star-forming cloud, thereby controlling the formation efficiency of a circumstellar disc and also multiple stellar systems. The coupling of magnetic fields to the gas depends on its ionization degree. We calculate the temperature evolution and ionization degree of a cloud for various metallicities of Z/Z⊙ = 10−6, 10−5, 10−4, 10−3, 10−2, 10−1, and 1. We update the chemical network by reversing all the gas-phase processes and by considering grain-surface chemistry, including grain evaporation, thermal ionization of alkali metals, and thermionic emission from grains. The ionization degree at nH ∼ 1015–1019 cm−3 becomes up to eight orders of magnitude higher than that obtained in the previous model, owing to the thermionic emission and thermal ionization of K and Na, which have been neglected so far. Although magnetic fields dissipate owing to ambipolar diffusion or Ohmic loss at nH < 1015 cm−3, the fields recover strong coupling to the gas at nH ∼ 1015 cm−3, which is lower by a few orders of magnitude compared to the previous work. We develop a reduced chemical network by choosing processes relevant to major coolants and charged species. The reduced network consists of 104 (161) reactions among 28 (38) species in the absence (presence, respectively) of ionization sources. The reduced model includes H2 and HD formation on grain surfaces as well as the depletion of O, C, OH, CO, and H2O on grain surfaces.
Raman mapping of photodissociation regions
Authors: Henney William J
Published: January 2021

Broad Raman-scattered wings of hydrogen lines can be used to map neutral gas illuminated by high-mass stars in star-forming regions. Raman scattering transforms far-ultraviolet starlight from the wings of the Lyβ line (1022–1029 Å) to red visual light in the wings of the Hα line (6400 –6700 Å). Analysis of spatially resolved spectra of the Orion Bar and other regions in the Orion Nebula shows that this process occurs in the neutral photodissociation region between the ionization front and dissociation front. The inner Raman wings are optically thick and allow the neutral hydrogen density to be determined, implying $n(\mathrm{H^0}) \approx 10^5\, \mathrm{cm}^{-3}$ for the Orion Bar. Far-ultraviolet resonance lines of neutral oxygen imprint their absorption on to the stellar continuum as it passes through the ionization front, producing characteristic absorption lines at 6633 Å and 6664 Å with widths of order 2 Å. This is a unique signature of Raman scattering, which allows it to be easily distinguished from other processes that might produce broad Hα wings, such as electron scattering or high-velocity outflows.
Toll-like receptor 4 signaling activates ERG function in prostate cancer and provides a therapeutic target
Authors: Greulich Benjamin M , Plotnik Joshua P , Jerde Travis J , Hollenhorst Peter C
Published: January 2021

The TMPRSS2–ERG gene fusion and subsequent overexpression of the ERG transcription factor occurs in ∼50% of prostate tumors, making it the most common abnormality of the prostate cancer genome. While ERG has been shown to drive tumor progression and cancer-related phenotypes, as a transcription factor it is difficult to target therapeutically. Using a genetic screen, we identified the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway as important for ERG function in prostate cells. Our data confirm previous reports that ERG can transcriptionally activate TLR4 gene expression; however, using a constitutively active ERG mutant, we demonstrate that the critical function of TLR4 signaling is upstream, promoting ERG phosphorylation at serine 96 and ERG transcriptional activation. The TLR4 inhibitor, TAK-242, attenuated ERG-mediated migration, clonogenic survival, target gene activation and tumor growth. Together these data indicate a mechanistic basis for inhibition of TLR4 signaling as a treatment for ERG-positive prostate cancer.
The need for a central brain tumor registry in Africa: A review of central nervous system tumors in Africa from 1960 to 2017
Authors: Mbi Feh Marilyn Keng-Nasang , Lyon Kristopher A , Brahmaroutu Ankita V , Tadipatri Ramya , Fonkem Ekokobe
Published: January 2021

Background

Central nervous system (CNS) tumors pose a substantial health problem. Although data on specific time periods and regions of Africa have been previously reported, no study has yet to provide a systematic review of CNS tumors for the entire continent of Africa. This study aims to analyze the frequency of CNS tumors in Africa from 1960 to 2017.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search on CNS tumors in Africa was performed using multiple online scientific databases. The following keywords were queried in combination with the phrase “CNS tumors in Africa”: incidence, frequency, epidemiology, prevalence, brain, and cancer. A total of 26 articles met the inclusion criteria. Each selected article reported incidence and mortality rates from different regions of Africa in a time period between 1960 and 2017. SPSS21 statistical software was used to analyze the data.

Results

Nigeria, Egypt, and Uganda were found to have the most of the cases of CNS tumors in Africa. Males made up 54% of the 5902 cases per 100 000 population. The most common CNS tumors found were astrocytoma (24.70%), meningioma (22.22%), pituitary adenoma (8.4%), medulloblastoma (4.26%), craniopharyngioma (4.07%), and other not specified (25.17%).

Conclusions

Given the large population of Africa, the total reported cases may be underestimated when compared with other continents due to the lack of a central brain tumor registry in Africa. A comprehensive knowledge of CNS tumors in Africa is critical to population-based research and improving the current healthcare system.
Temporal Trends of Infective Endocarditis in Olmsted County, Minnesota, Between 1970 and 2018: A Population-Based Analysis
Authors: DeSimone Daniel C , Lahr Brian D , Anavekar Nandan S , Sohail Muhammad R , Tleyjeh Imad M , Wilson Walter R , Baddour Larry M
Published: January 2021

Background

A population-based study of infective endocarditis (IE) in Olmsted County, Minnesota, provides a unique opportunity to define temporal and seasonal variations in IE incidence over an extended time period.

Methods

This was a population-based review of all adults (≥18 years) residing in Olmsted County, Minnesota, with definite or possible IE using the Rochester Epidemiology Project from January 1, 1970, through December 31, 2018. Poisson regression was used to characterize the trends in IE incidence; models were fitted with age, sex, calendar time, and season, allowing for nonlinearity and nonadditivity of their effects.

Results

Overall, 269 cases of IE were identified over a 49-year study period. The median age of IE cases was 67.2 years, and 33.8% were female. The overall age- and sex-adjusted incidence of IE was 7.9 cases per 100 000 person-years (95% CI, 7.0–8.9), with corresponding rates of 2.4, 2.4, 0.9, and 0.7 per 100 000 person-years for Staphylococcus aureus, viridans group streptococci (VGS), Enterococcus species, and coagulase-negative staphylococci IE, respectively. Temporal trends varied by age, sex, and season, but on average IE incidence increased over time (P = .021). Enterococcal IE increased the most (P = .018), while S. aureus IE appeared to increase but mostly in the winter months (P = .018). Between 1996 and 2018, the incidence of VGS IE was relatively stable, with no statistically significant difference in the trends before and after the 2007 AHA IE prevention guidelines.

Conclusions

Overall, IE incidence, and specifically enterococcal IE, increased over time, while S. aureus IE was seasonally dependent. There was no statistically significant difference in VGS IE incidence in the periods before and after publication of the 2007 AHA IE prevention guidelines.
Sons and Daughters of the Soil: Politics and Protest of Kenyan Resettlement to Tanzania, 1961–1968
Authors: Moskowitz Kara
Published: January 2021

This article focuses on contestations over an international resettlement programme to move landless Kenyans of Gikuyu ethnicity to Tanzania during the early 1960s. It centres on three interconnected issues of decolonization: migration, statecraft and humanitarianism. Forced migration was integral to post-colonial statecraft, as both colonial and independent actors used displacement to construct their imagined nation state. In this case, the spatial ordering of politics, which focused on securing the profitable interior, departs from conventional narratives about refugees and nation-building. The colonial authorities in Kenya attempted to move Gikuyu not because of their ethnic or religious identity, but because they were poor and made populist claims to land. The withdrawing colonial power partnered with the post-colonial Tanzanian government and with humanitarian agencies. Through their involvement in this programme, aid agencies continued a long tradition of engaging in forced resettlement, and the relief they offered diminished the effectiveness of migrants’ claims to return to Kenya. Despite the power of the institutions involved, landless Gikuyu made compelling claims in the language of human rights, and local politicians encouraged dissent, while at the national level, Kenyan officials, by then part of an interim state, refused to support the programme publicly, illustrating the complexities of shared governance and bureaucracy at the end of empire.
How a Policy Network Matters for Refugee Protection: A Case Study of Japan’s Refugee Resettlement Programme
Authors: Akashi Junichi
Published: January 2021

In 2010, Japan became the first Asian country to launch a refugee resettlement programme. The programme continues today, and the government expanded the scheme to accept more refugees through the resettlement channel in 2020. How Japan, a country known for its reluctance to accept refugees, has strengthened its commitment to its refugee resettlement programme has been insufficiently investigated. Based on surveys of literature that mainly involved primary resources and interviews with key stakeholders of the programmes, this study reveals that the development of a policy network that mediates local constraints on refugee protection processes is a key determinant of the state’s capability to accept refugees as well as how well the refugee protection programme functions. Retracing the decade-long history of Japan’s resettlement programme, this study argues that the performance of the programme has hinged on local actors and in part on a non-governmental organisation that acts as an intermediary between the state and municipalities, whereas institutional settings in Japan remain the greatest hindrance to the effective participation of NGOs in national humanitarian initiatives.
Context-based interpersonal relationship modulates social comparison between outcomes: an event-related potential study
Authors: Zhang Huoyin , Gu Ruolei , Yang Ming , Zhang Mingming , Han Fengxu , Li Hong , Luo Wenbo
Published: January 2021

Social comparison is a common behavior that largely determines people’s experience of decision outcome. Previous research has showed that interpersonal relationship plays a pivotal role in social comparison. In the current study, we investigated whether the manipulation of context-based relationship would affect participants’ comparison of self-outcome and other-outcome. Participants first finished a trust game with likeable (dislikeable) partner and then they were involved in a gambling task and observed the outcomes for themselves and for partners. According to self-reports, participants were more satisfied with likeable partner’s gains than losses only when they received gains, but they were always more satisfied with dislikeable player’s losses compared to gains. Event-related potentials including the feedback-related negativity (FRN), P3 and late positive component (LPC) were sensitive to context-based relationship. Specifically, the prediction error signal (indexed by the FRN) was largest when participants received losses but dislikeable player received gains. Meanwhile, the P3 indicates that participants had stronger motivation to outperform dislikeable player. Finally, the LPC was larger when participants received the same outcomes with dislikeable players. In general, our results support the key point of the self-evaluation maintenance model that personal closeness modulates subjective sensitivity when drawing a comparison of one’s outcomes with other’s outcomes.
Labor Market Experience and Falling Earnings Inequality in Brazil: 1995–2012
Authors: Ferreira Francisco H G , Firpo Sergio P , Messina Julián
Published: January 2021

The Gini coefficient of labor earnings in Brazil fell by nearly a fifth between 1995 and 2012, from 0.50 to 0.41. The decline in other measures of earnings inequality was even larger, with the 90-10 percentile ratio falling by almost 40 percent. Applying micro-econometric decomposition techniques, this study parses out the proximate determinants of this substantial reduction in earnings inequality. Although a falling education premium did play a role, in line with received wisdom, this study finds that a reduction in the returns to labor market experience was a much more important factor driving lower wage disparities. It accounted for 53 percent of the observed decline in the Gini index during the period. Reductions in horizontal inequalities – the gender, race, regional and urban-rural wage gaps, conditional on human capital and institutional variables – also contributed. Two main factors operated against the decline: a greater disparity in wage premia to different sectors of economic activity, and the “paradox of progress”: the mechanical inequality-increasing effect of a more educated labor force when returns to education are convex.
Cirrhosis
Authors: Casler Kelly , Chaney Amanda
Published: January 2021

The role of nurses in managing patients with cirrhosis is increasing due to the growing prevalence of the disease. This article reviews the pathophysiology, diagnosis, complications, and management of patients with cirrhosis, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based practice.
Family-centered care with visitor limitations
Authors: Jones Uletha M.
Published: January 2021

Communication and support for patients and family members can be challenging, especially when in-person visitation is limited or eliminated entirely. This article discusses how healthcare teams can promote family-centered care during periods of limited visitation.
BE FAST to recognize stroke
Authors: Toral Linda
Published: January 2021

An easy-to-use acronym, BE FAST (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, Time), is gaining in popularity for rapid screening of patients for signs and symptoms of stroke that would otherwise be missed by using the more familiar FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) acronym alone. This article describes the BE FAST tool and discusses how to integrate it into nursing practice.
Early Adolescent Social Media–Related Body Dissatisfaction: Associations with Depressive Symptoms, Social Anxiety, Peers, and Celebrities
Authors: Charmaraman Linda , Richer Amanda M. , Liu Cindy , Lynch Alicia Doyle , Moreno Megan A.
Published: January 2021

Objective:

It is critical to examine the powerful socializing effects of networked media on early adolescents when social media use, body self-consciousness, and social comparisons are at their peak.

Method:

Using 2 subsamples (N = 374 and N = 396) of those aged 11 to 14 years from a larger survey sample of 700 middle school participants in the Northeast United States, we conducted a cross-sectional pilot survey using brief, descriptive body dissatisfaction measures directly related to social media use.

Results:

Within our body dissatisfaction subsample, 19% reported dissatisfaction to body image issues. Participants' most common concerns around body image included not being thin enough, not attractive enough, and feeling dissatisfaction with body shape, hair, and face. The results from analysis of covariance analyses showed that those reporting social media–related body dissatisfaction checked their social media more frequently. When compared with those who did not feel negatively about their body image because of social media, those who did had higher rates of depressive symptoms, had online social anxiety, had found it harder to make new friends, and were more socially isolated. Those who followed celebrities checked social media more frequently and were more likely to have depressive symptoms and online social anxiety.

Conclusion:

There may be negative socioemotional health consequences of early adolescent social media users with exposure to particular sources of social media content, such as photographs of celebrities.
Duration of Breastfeeding Mediates the Association Between Early Socioeconomic Risk and Child Vocabulary at Age 4
Authors: Natale Brianna N. , Shaw Daniel S. , Janson Harald , Nærde Ane
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Early-life socioeconomic disadvantage is associated with both obesity and lower cognitive abilities in childhood. One theorized underlying mechanism is breastfeeding duration because breast milk contains nutrients that can promote healthy adiposity profiles and stimulate brain development. However, studies have rarely examined these potential associations with child body mass index (BMI) in high-income Western countries, much less investigated breastfeeding duration as a mediator of the relationship between childhood socioeconomic status (SES) and later child vocabulary. The current study aimed to prospectively examine associations between early-life family socioeconomic risk and both child BMI and vocabulary at age 4 in a Norwegian cohort and the potential mediating contribution of breastfeeding duration.

Methods:

The Behavior Outlook Norwegian Developmental Study (BONDS) followed 1159 families and their children from 6 months of age onward. Parents reported on SES and breastfeeding duration in infancy, and child BMI and vocabulary ability were assessed at age 4. Direct and indirect effects were estimated using a path model that adjusted for several demographic and perinatal covariates (e.g., parental nativity and birthweight).

Results:

Family socioeconomic risk was significantly and negatively related to child vocabulary but was unrelated to child BMI. In addition, breastfeeding duration mediated the association between family socioeconomic risk and child vocabulary, with greater family socioeconomic risk associated with a shorter breastfeeding duration, which, in turn, predicted poorer child vocabulary.

Conclusion:

The current findings suggest that longer breastfeeding duration is a viable target for preventatively promoting child vocabulary, especially among families at socioeconomic risk.
Oxygenation Strategies in Critically Ill Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Evers Julianne M. , Pehlke Sarah J. , Jones Lauren L. , Urquhart Michelle G.
Published: January 2021

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 is a disease characterized by a range of clinical syndromes including variable degrees of respiratory symptoms from mild respiratory illness and severe interstitial pneumonia to acute respiratory distress syndrome, septic shock, coagulopathies, and multiorgan dysfunction. This virus carries the potential to manifest in a wide range of pulmonary findings and hypoxemias, from mild respiratory symptoms to more severe syndromes, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome. The rapid accumulation of evidence and persistent gaps in knowledge related to the virus presents a host of challenges for clinicians. This creates a complex environment for clinical decision-making.

Objective

To examine oxygenation strategies in critically ill patients with hypoxia who are hospitalized with COVID-19.

Discussion

These proposed strategies may help to improve the respiratory status and oxygenation of those affected by COVID-19. However, additional high-quality research is needed to provide further evidence for improved respiratory management strategies. Areas of future research should focus on improving understanding of the inflammatory and clotting processes associated with the virus, particularly in the lungs. High-level evidence and randomized controlled trials should target the most effective strategies for improving oxygenation, time requiring mechanical ventilation, and survival for hospitalized patients with COVID-19 presenting with hypoxemia.
Drug interactions with herbal medicines: mechanisms and implications
Authors: Routledge Philip A. , Bracchi Robert C. , Woods Fiona J.
Published: January 2021

Interactions between herbal and conventional medicines can occur by either pharmacodynamic or pharmacokinetic mechanisms, resulting in a reduction or increase in the effects of the conventional medicine. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) should always take a full medicines history, including herbal medicines use as well as other complementary products (e.g., food supplements and other dietary supplements), and be aware that they may sometimes affect the efficacy or safety of other medicines the patient receives. A range of resources are available to inform HCPs and patients/carers about potential drug/herb interactions. HCPs and the public need to be aware of the importance of reporting suspected adverse drug reactions (including suspected interactions) to the appropriate regulatory agency. Finally, further research is necessary to ascertain the clinical impact and mechanisms of such interactions, and how adverse outcomes can be avoided.
Development and Validation of the DiAbeTes Education Questionnaire (DATE-Q) to Measure Knowledge Among Diabetes and Prediabetes Patients Attending Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs
Authors: Ghisi Gabriela Lima de Melo , Aultman Crystal , Konidis Renee , Foster Evelyn , Sandison Nicole , Alavinia Mohammad , Sarin Michael , Oh Paul
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Knowledge assessment tools are highly useful in clinical practice, as they help health care teams to customize education and clinical care plans based on the needs of patients. The objective of this study was to develop and validate the DiAbeTes Education Questionnaire (DATE-Q) to measure knowledge among diabetes and prediabetes patients attending cardiac rehabilitation (CR).

Methods:

Based on patient information needs, other validated tools and diabetes education standards and current practices, experts developed 20 items to comprise the first version of the DATE-Q. To establish content validity, they were reviewed by an expert panel (n = 12) and patients. Refined items were psychometrically tested in 84 diabetes and prediabetes patients attending CR. The internal consistency was assessed via regularized factor analysis and Cronbach α, and criterion validity with regard to patient education and family income. For interpretability analysis, the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was estimated using distribution- and anchor-based methods.

Results:

All items were appropriate for administration in this population according to experts and patients. Three factors were extracted and were generally internally consistent and well defined by the items. Criterion validity was supported by significant differences in mean scores by family income (P < .05). Results showed that increases in knowledge can moderately increase mean steps/d and peak oxygen uptake, with an MCID of 2.13.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated preliminary validity of the DATE-Q. Future research is needed to assess other measurement properties to confirm the applicability of this tool in clinical and research settings.
Improvement in Physical Function After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery Using a Novel Rehabilitation Intervention
Authors: Rengo Jason L. , Savage Patrick D. , Hirashima Fuyuki , Leavitt Bruce J. , Ades Philip A. , Toth Michael J.
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Cardiorespiratory and skeletal muscle deconditioning occurs following coronary artery bypass graft surgery and hospitalization. Outpatient, phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is designed to remediate this deconditioning but typically does not begin until several weeks following hospital discharge. Although an exercise program between discharge and the start of CR could improve functional recovery, implementation of exercise at this time is complicated by postoperative physical limitations and restrictions. Our objective was to assess the utility of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) as an adjunct to current rehabilitative care following postsurgical discharge and prior to entry into CR on indices of physical function in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Methods:

Patients were randomized to 4 wk of bilateral, NMES (5 d/wk) to their quadriceps muscles or no intervention (control). Physical function testing was performed at hospital discharge and 4 wk post-discharge using the Short Physical Performance Battery and the 6-min walk tests. Data from 37 patients (19 control/18 NMES) who completed the trial were analyzed. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03892460).

Results:

Physical function measures improved from discharge to 4 wk post-surgery across our entire cohort (P < .001). Patients randomized to NMES, however, showed greater improvements in 6-min walk test distance and power output compared with controls (P < .01).

Conclusion:

Our results provide evidence supporting the utility of NMES to accelerate recovery of physical function after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
The impact of Maryland’s payment reforms on hospital community benefit efforts
Authors: Cronin Cory E. , Singh Simone , Franz Berkeley
Published: January 2021

Background

In 2014, Maryland established a global budget policy for all hospitals in the state. Under this policy, hospitals are incentivized to not only provide clinical care services to individual patients but also address the health needs of their broader patient population through prevention efforts and investment in the upstream social and economic factors that determine health.

Purpose

To better understand the incentives created for hospitals under this policy, our study assessed whether the implementation of global budgets changed the levels and patterns of Maryland hospitals’ investments in community benefits.

Approach

Data on hospital community benefit spending from the Internal Revenue Service Form 990 Schedule H for the years 2010–2016 were utilized for this study.

Results

We found that Maryland hospitals’ total spending on community benefits decreased under the global budget policy. Unlike hospitals in similar states without a global budget policy, Maryland hospitals did not experience any increases in Medicaid shortfalls between 2014 and 2016. Although Maryland hospitals provided more subsidized health services, their investment in broader community health improvement activities remained unchanged.

Conclusion

Our analysis suggests that Maryland hospitals have shifted strategies because of the implementation of the global budget policy. The ability to report community benefit in a way that accurately considers the context and constraints of a state’s policies would provide hospitals better means of communicating these efforts to stakeholders.

Practice Implications

Our results suggest that global budgets impact the levels and patterns of hospitals’ community benefit investments.
STELLATE NONHEREDITARY IDIOPATHIC FOVEOMACULAR RETINOSCHISIS: NOVEL FINDINGS AND OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY ANALYSIS
Authors: Schildroth Kathleen R. , Mititelu Mihai , Etheridge Tyler , Holman Ian , Chang Jonathan S.
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

To present novel findings in stellate nonhereditary idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis, including the largest series of optical coherence tomography angiography findings to date.

Methods:

A retrospective case series with multimodal imaging was obtained and reviewed.

Results:

All three patients were women, aged 59–63. Two cases were unilateral, and one was bilateral. Vision ranged from 20/20 to 20/60 in the affected eyes. Peripheral retinoschisis was observed in all three patients. All patients were followed for a minimum of 1 year. In one case, progressive macular retinoschisis leading to foveal involvement was observed over two years, with an associated vision decline from 20/25 to 20/60. Attempted interventions included topical dorzolamide in all cases and intravitreal bevacizumab in one patient; however, no treatment effect was observed. The foveal avascular zone size was within normal limits (mean 280 µm). In all stellate nonhereditary idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis eyes, the retinoschisis cavities were nonvascular.

Conclusion:

Novel findings regarding stellate nonhereditary idiopathic foveomacular retinoschisis include the progressive nature of foveal involvement and the lack of response to topical dorzolamide and intravitreal bevacizumab. Foveal avascular zone was normal in all eyes, consistent with the relatively preserved vision in these cases. Retinoschisis cavities were nonvascular in all eyes, a finding which may give insight into the mechanism of this disease.
Fungal Necrotizing Scleritis After Intravitreal Injection Therapy
Authors: Hernández-Pons Antonio , Ortiz-Seller Amparo , López-Cruz Ian , Camarena Juan J. , Comín-Pérez Alberto , Ferrández-Pérez María A. , Martínez-Costa Lucía
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

To report a case of infectious necrotizing scleritis secondary to Aspergillus terreus after intravitreal injection therapy.

Methods:

This is a case report with literature review.

Results:

A 98-year-old woman receiving intravitreal aflibercept injections for neovascular age-related macular degeneration in the left eye presented with severe pain, redness, and purulent discharge at the injection site. She was initially treated with topical fortified antibiotics, and clinical improvement was achieved, although microbial cultures showed negative results. Two months later, she presented with severe ocular pain and was diagnosed with anterior necrotizing scleritis. Scleral scrapings were collected for cultures, and intensive topical antibiotic therapy was reintroduced. Evaluation for autoimmune etiology and microbiological testing showed negative results. Because of the progression of the scleral necrotic area, empirical therapy with topical voriconazole was initiated, and surgical debridement was performed. Finally, the culture was positive for A. terreus. The modified therapy consisted of topical voriconazole and oral voriconazole for 3 months with an excellent clinical outcome.

Conclusions:

To our knowledge, this is the first case of fungal necrotizing scleritis secondary to intravitreal injection. Diagnosis was delayed due to its chronic clinical course and the slow fungal growth in culture media, but the combined medical and surgical approach resulted in a satisfactory outcome.
The Hydrus Microstent in Pseudophakic Patients With Medically Refractory Open-angle Glaucoma
Authors: Coventon James , Cronin Brendan
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is an emerging therapy for glaucoma. The Hydrus Microstent is a MIGS device that stents Schlemm’s canal, thereby increasing aqueous drainage and lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). This article describes the use of the microstent in pseudophakic patients with medically refractory glaucoma, a patient population undocumented in the current literature.

Patients and Methods:

We present a retrospective case series of 11 pseudophakic eyes using 3 or more pressure lowering medications daily for open-angle glaucoma who underwent Hydrus Microstent insertion. Patients were followed up at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months postoperatively and assessed for reductions in IOP and medication burden.

Results:

At intervals 12 and 24 months, medication burden reduced by 75.6% at both junctures, and IOP reduced by 43.8% and 34.1%. Complications included 4 hyphaemas and 1 corneal epithelial defect, each of which resolved.

Discussion:

This case series demonstrated effective pressure and medication reduction in medically refractory open-angle glaucoma patients using the Hydrus Microstent. Use of this device in this population is thus far undocumented in the literature and may represent an optimal therapeutic modality in the future.
Yogic Pranayama and Diaphragmatic Breathing: Adjunct Therapy for Intraocular Pressure in Patients With Primary Open-angle Glaucoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Udenia Hemlata , Mittal Sunita , Agrawal Ajai , Singh Anvita , Singh Anupam , Mittal Sanjeev K.
Published: January 2021

Précis:

Yogic pranayama and diaphragmatic breathing are potential adjunctive therapies for patients with glaucoma; however, they are not substitutes for medicine or eye drops.

Purpose:

Currently, medical or surgical lowering of intraocular pressure is the only therapeutic approach for treating primary open-angle glaucoma. Intraocular pressure maintenance is influenced by autonomic activity (sympathetic and parasympathetic). “Yogic pranayama” and “diaphragmatic breathing” are exercises that can affect autonomic activity by stimulating a wakeful hypometabolic state of parasympathetic dominance. We aimed to assess the effect of yogic pranayama and diaphragmatic breathing on intraocular pressure to determine whether it can be recommended for individuals with established glaucoma in combination with glaucoma medication as an adjuvant therapy.

Materials and Methods:

In this prospective, randomized trial, 90 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (180 eyes, age: above 40 y) were assigned to either the control or yogic pranayama and diaphragmatic breathing exercise group. In the latter group, yogic pranayama and diaphragmatic breathing were practiced daily for 6 months. We measured the intraocular pressure at presentation and subsequently after 1, 3, and 6 months.

Results:

Compared with the wait-list group, the yogic pranayama and diaphragmatic breathing exercise group had significantly lowered intraocular pressure (right eye: 20.85±3.39 to 14.90±2.86 mm Hg; left eye: 20.30±4.12 to 14.25±3.85 mm Hg; P<0.001).

Conclusion:

Yogic pranayama and diaphragmatic breathing exercises can reduce intraocular pressure in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma and can therefore be recommended as an adjuvant therapy.
GRP and NMB: distinct functions in itch transmission
Authors: Barry Devin M. , Liu Xian-Yu , Chen Zhou-Feng
Published: January 2021

One of the major challenges in the field is to understand how histaminergic and nonhistaminergic itch is encoded and transmitted from sensory neurons to the spinal cord, respectively. The question is of immerse importance because it concerns not only the coding of itch information in the nervous system but also antihistamines are ineffective at treating the majority of chronic itch. One way to tackle the challenge is to elucidate the role of neuropeptides and their respective receptors in itch transmission. This task poses a daunting challenge because of the multiplicity of the receptor family, which could result in cross-talk between a neuropeptide and its noncognate receptor (s). In this short commentary, we will focus on our recent studies on the respective role of gastrin-releasing peptide and neuromedin B peptide, the 2 members of the mammalian homologues of the bombesin family, in itch transmission.
Diabetes: a silent player in musculoskeletal interventional radiology response
Authors: Dimitri-Pinheiro Sofia , Pimenta Madalena , Cardoso-Marinho Beatriz , Torrão Helena , Soares Raquel , Karantanas Apostolos
Published: January 2021

Diabetes has an important role in the development of several musculoskeletal disorders, such as adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder (ACs) and stenosing flexor tenosynovitis of the finger (SfTf). The etiopathophysiology of ACs and SfTf in diabetic patients is associated with both chronic hyperglycemia, increased amounts of visceral adiposity and chronic inflammation. Chronic hyperglycemia stimulates the creation of cross-links between collagen molecules, impairing degradation and resulting in the build-up of excessive collagen deposits in the cartilage, ligaments, tendon sheaths and tendons. Increased adipocytes in diabetic patients secrete proteins and cytocines such as TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-13 which result in overproduction of pro-inflammatory factors, destruction of normal tissue architecture and fibrosis. Both hyperglycemia and adipocytes inhibit efferocytosis, limiting natural resolution. Recently, multiple image-guided interventional radiology musculoskeletal treatment options have been developed, such as ultrasound-guided glenohumeral capsule hydrodistension for ACs and ultrasound-guided percutaneous pulley release for trigger finger. Diabetes can negatively influence outcomes in patients with ACs and SfTf and may impact the decision of which specific procedure technique should be employed. Further studies are necessary to define how diabetes influences response to interventional radiology treatments of these disorders, as well as the extent to which control of blood sugar levels can contribute towards the personalization and optimization of patient follow up.
The Buffering Effect of Perceived Organizational Support on the Relationships Among Workload, Work–Family Interference, and Affective Commitment: A Study on Nurses
Authors: TAYFUR EKMEKCI Ozge , XHAKO Dorela , METIN CAMGOZ Selin
Published: January 2021

Background

Minimal research has been conducted to explore the associations among workload, work-to-family conflict, family-to-work conflict, support, and affective commitment.

Purpose

This study was designed to explore the moderating role of perceived organizational support on the mediating effects of work-to-family conflict, family-to-work conflict in perceived workload, and affective commitment linkage.

Methods

The data were collected using a self-report survey from 164 nurses working at two public hospitals. The hypothesized model was tested using PROCESS macro.

Results

Perceived organizational support was found to influence the mediating effect of work-to-family conflict on the linkage between workload and affective commitment, yet not to moderate the mediating effect of family-to-work conflict. The results revealed that workload predicts affective commitment negatively and work-to-family conflict positively. However, perceived organizational support was found to change the effect that workload has on affective commitment. The negative effect of workload on affective commitment was found to be weaker for nurses with adequate organizational support.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

Perceived organizational support was found to have both main and buffering effects on the emotional attachment of nurses toward their organizations. The findings support the importance of creating supportive work settings to alleviate the adverse effects on nurses of workload and work–family interference.
Stepping Up to the Plate
Authors: Bruhn Christine M.
Published: January 2021

The accomplishments of previous award recipients are recognized, and some of the research and outreach activities that lead to this recognition are described. Finally, I pose a challenge for the future for fellow nutrition and food science professionals.
Don't Be a Stiff
Authors: Fields Brentney , Guerin Caitlin Sinclair , Justice Stephanie Baker
Published: January 2021

Vaccine-preventable diseases, such as tetanus, are oftentimes a thought of the past in countries that only see a handful of cases per year. In recent years, though, there has been more controversy around vaccinations and fewer individuals getting vaccinated. This movement has resulted in vaccine-preventable diseases resurfacing (e.g., measles). Tetanus is one of the diseases that health care providers should continue to be familiar with in regard to its clinical presentation and the treatments that are available to manage the corresponding signs and symptoms. Because tetanus is an acute, toxin-mediated illness that can be fatal, prevention and treatment are critical. This article briefly summarizes tetanus and the therapies considered to be first line in its management.
Mucilaginibacter inviolabilis sp. nov., isolated from the phycosphere of Haematococcus lacustris NIES 144 culture
Authors: Lee Sang-Ah , Le Ve Van , Ko So-Ra , Lee Nakyeong , Oh Hee-Mock , Ahn Chi-Yong
Published: January 2021

A Gram-stain-negative, non-motile, rod-shaped, aerobic bacterial strain, designated HC2T, was isolated from the phycosphere of Haematococcus lacustris NIES 144 culture. Strain HC2T was able to grow at pH 4.5–8.0, at 4–32 °C and in the presence of 0–2 % (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain HC2T was affiliated to the genus

Mucilaginibacter

and shared the highest sequence similarity with

Mucilaginibacter lappiensis

ANJKI2T (98.20 %) and

Mucilaginibacter sabulilitoris

SMS-12T (98.06 %). Strain HC2T contained summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
ω7c and/or C16 : 1
ω6c) and iso-C15 : 0 as the major fatty acids (>10.0 %). The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, one unidentified aminophospholipid, one unidentified phospholipid, two unidentified aminolipids and four unidentified lipids. The respiratory quinone was menaquinone 7 (MK-7). The genomic DNA G+C content was 42.0 %. On the basis of the phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic characteristics, strain HC2T represents a novel species of the genus Mucilaginibacter, for which the name Mucilaginibacter inviolabilis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is HC2T (=KCTC 82084T=JCM 34116T).
A flexible, pan-species, multi-antigen platform for the detection and monitoring of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody responses
Authors: Shen Huifeng , Forgacs David , Chapla Digantkumar , Moremen Kelley W. , Wells Lance , Hamer Sarah A. , Tompkins Stephen M. , Ross Ted M. , Rouphael Nadine , Edupuganti Srilatha , Collins Matthew H. , Tarleton Rick L.
Published: January 2021

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the vaccination effort that is ongoing has created an unmet need for accessible, affordable, flexible and precise platforms for monitoring the induction, specificity and maintenance of virus-specific immune responses. Herein we validate a multiplex (Luminex-based) assay capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies irrespective of host species, antibody isotype, and specimen type (e.g. plasma, serum, saliva or blood spots). The well-established precision of Luminex-based assays provides the ability to follow changes in antibody levels over time to many antigens, including multiple permutations of the most common SARS-CoV-2 antigens. This platform can easily measure antibodies known to correlate with neutralization activity as well as multiple non-SARS-CoV-2 antigens such as vaccines (e.g. Tetanus toxoid) or those from frequently encountered agents (influenza), which serve as stable reference points for quantifying the changing SARS-specific responses. All of the antigens utilized in our study can be made in-house, many inE. coliusing readily available plasmids. Commercially sourced antigens may also be incorporated and newly available antigen variants can be rapidly produced and integrated, making the platform adaptable to the evolving viral strains in this pandemic.

Brief Summary

A multi-antigen assay for monitoring SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies irrespective of host species, antibody isotype, and specimen type was developed.
COVID-19-related disruptions to routine vaccination services in India: perspectives from pediatricians
Authors: Shet Anita , Dhaliwal Baldeep , Banerjee Preetika , Carr Kelly , DeLuca Andrea , Britto Carl , Seth Rajeev , Parekh Bakul , Basavaraj GV , Gupta Piyush , Shastri Digant
Published: January 2021

Background and Objective

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to disruptions to routine immunization programs in India and around the world, setting the stage for potentially serious outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.

Methods

We surveyed pediatric healthcare providers in India in 2 rounds in April-June and September 2020 to understand how COVID-19 control measures may have impacted routine vaccination.

Results

Respondents were predominantly pediatricians working in primary, secondary or tertiary healthcare centers, across 21 Indian states and two union territories. Among the 424 (survey 1) and 141 (survey 2) respondents, 33.4% and 7.8%, respectively, reported near complete suspension of vaccination services due to COVID-19. A 50% or greater drop in vaccination services was reported by 83.1% of respondents in June, followed by 32.6% four months later, indicating slow recovery of services. By September 2020, 83.6% were aware of updated guidelines on safe provision of immunization services, although awareness of specific catch-up vaccination plans was low, and 76.6% expressed concern about a vaccine coverage gap that could potentially lead to increased non-COVID-19 illnesses and deaths.

Conclusions

Pandemic-related disruptions to vaccination services were reported by pediatricians across India. Concerted efforts are needed from governing and academic groups to ensure that routine immunization and catch-up programs are implemented during this pandemic, which can sustain gains in vaccination coverage and provide a robust blueprint for the national roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Adolescent predatory stress increases peripheral TNFα response to LPS regardless of sex
Authors: Dyer Samya K. , Council Kimaya R. , Turkson Susie , Shaw Gladys A. , Neigh Gretchen N.
Published: January 2021

Chronic adolescent stress has been shown to cause increased adverse effects in response to an immune stressor later in life including the development of anxiety and PTSD. Following stress, the production of inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β and TNFα is expected to increase in response to an immune challenge such as LPS. Male and female mice underwent fifteen consecutive days of predatory stress. Chronic adolescent stress was shown to increase both anxiety-like behavior (F(1, 28)= 19.82, p = 0.0001) and TNFα levels within the periphery (F(1, 19)= 4.748, p = 0.0421).