bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder on adult victims of sexual violence: A network analysis
Authors: Yang Saet Byeol , Choi Sam Sik , Chang Hyoung Yoon , Kim Dohyun , Lee Youngil , Lim Myung Ho
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to identify and compare central post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms experienced by rape and sexual harassment victims, and the differences between the 2 groups. This study included 935 female victims of sexual violence who visited Sunflower Center in Korea between 2014 and 2020. Of the 935 victims, 172 were rape victims and 763 were sexually harassed. The Korean version of the Post-traumatic Diagnosis Scale was used to evaluate PTSD symptoms, and network analysis was performed to examine the differences in symptoms. The central symptom was “Physical reactions (PDS05)” for the group of rape victims and Less interest in activities (PDS09)’ for the group of sexual harassment victims. For the group of sexual harassment victims, the most distinct central edge was the one between “Being over alert (PDS16)” and “Being jumpy or easily startled (PDS17),” and for the group of rape victims, it was the edge between “Upset when reminded of the trauma (PDS04),” and “Physical reactions (PDS05).” Network analysis revealed differences in central PTSD symptoms and central edges between sexual harassment and rape victims. Although re-experiencing and avoidance symptom clusters were most central in both groups, the specific central symptoms and edges differed between the 2 groups.
Meningitis with septic shock resulting from odontogenic infection misdiagnosed as closed-lock in temporomandibular disorder: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yoshizawa Kunio , Hanihara Mitsuto , Harada Daiki , Myose Natsuhiko , Sakata Hiroki , Moriguchi Takeshi , Moroi Akinori , Ueki Koichiro
Published: July 2023

Rationale:

Infections that spread to the pterygomandibular muscle can be misdiagnosed as temporomandibular disorder (TMD) because of the resulting difficulty in opening the mouth. Importantly, infection of the pterygomandibular space can extend to the skull base in the early stages, and a delay in therapeutic intervention can lead to severe complications.

Patient concerns:

A 77-year-old Japanese man with trismus after pulpectomy was referred to our department. This case report describes a rare instance of meningitis with septic shock caused by an odontogenic infection, initially misdiagnosed as TMD due to similar symptoms, leading to life-threatening complications.

Diagnosis:

The patient was diagnosed with sepsis and meningitis resulting from cellulitis in the pterygomandibular space caused by iatrogenic infection after pulpectomy of the right upper second molar.

Interventions:

After emergency hospitalization, the patient developed septic shock and required blood purification. Subsequently, abscess drainage and extraction of the causative tooth were performed. However, the patient developed hydrocephalus secondary to meningitis and underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunting to alleviate the condition.

Outcomes:

The infection was controlled and the patient level of consciousness improved following treatment for hydrocephalus. The patient was transferred to a hospital for rehabilitation on the 106th day of hospitalization.

Lessons:

Infections of the pterygomandibular space may be misdiagnosed as TMD, owing to the main symptoms of restricted mouth opening and pain on mouth opening. A prompt and appropriate diagnosis is crucial because these infections can lead to life-threatening complications. A detailed interview, along with additional blood tests and computed tomography (CT) scans, can aid in making an accurate diagnosis.
Bibliometric and visualized analysis of the top-100 highly cited articles on immunotherapy for endometrial cancer
Authors: Zheng Wanzhen , Wu Yinjie , Wang Yu , Cheng Jiaxin , Shen Wenjing
Published: July 2023

Background:

Immunotherapy is a promising method for the treatment of endometrial cancer (EC). We aimed to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric study of the top 100 most-cited publications on immunotherapy for EC and provide a reference for future research.

Methods:

Global publications on immunotherapy for EC published from 1985 to the present in the Web of Science core database were retrieved. We focused on the study of the top 100 most-cited articles by extracting information such as year, country, journal, author, institution, literature, and keywords. Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, and R were used to perform descriptive statistics and visual analyses.

Results:

The top 100 most-cited articles were published between 2002 and 2022, including 70 original papers and 30 reviews. The total frequency of citations per article ranges from 15 to 287. Developed countries dominated these publications, with the United States contributing the most (50 articles). According to Bradford Law, 6 journals, including Gynecologic Oncology and the Journal of Clinical Oncology, are highly recommended. Santin A. D. from Yale University and Makker.V. from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have made positive contributions. Among the top ten most-cited articles, 7 focused on clinical trials exploring the efficacy of immunotherapy drugs, of which 4 were lenvatinib combined with pembrolizumab for the treatment of advanced EC. The immune-microenvironment, immune antitumor mechanisms, immunomodulatory drugs, especially anti-pd-1/pd-l1 checkpoint inhibitors, and their clinical trials are the focus of current research.

Conclusion:

The attention of researchers from different countries to EC immunotherapy, especially immunosuppressants, has brought a breakthrough in this field. A large number of clinical trials have evaluated the efficacy and safety of immune agents, and immune combination therapy (especially targeted therapy) shows positive therapeutic promise. Immunodrug sensitivity and adverse events remain urgent issues. The key to promoting the development of EC immunotherapy is to select the best patients according to the molecular classification and immunophenotype such as tumor mutation load, MMR status, pd-l1 expression, tumor infiltrating immune cells to truly achieve accurate and personalized treatment. More new and influential EC immunotherapies, such as adoptive cell immunotherapy, still need to be explored in future clinical practice.
A splicing mutation of the FLCN gene is associated with Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome characterized by familial and recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax: A case report
Authors: Xiao Hua , Chi Feng , Li Shuai , Wang Tao , Bai Bin , Hou Jia , Ge Xiahui
Published: July 2023

Rationale:

Birt-Hogg-Dubé (BHD) syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder caused mainly by mutations in the tumor suppressor FLCN gene. Tumors caused by FLCN mutations are frequently benign and develop in skin, lungs, kidney, and other organs, leading to a variety of phenotypes that make early diagnoses of BHD challenging.

Patient concerns:

A 51-year-old female was admitted to Shanghai Seventh People Hospital due to chest congestion and dyspnea that had persisted for 3 years and aggravated for 1 month. She had been diagnosed with pneumothorax prior to this submission, but the etiology was unknown.

Diagnoses:

Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed multiple pulmonary cysts and pneumothorax, and her family members shared similar manifestation. Whole-exome sequencing analysis indicated a heterozygous FLCN splicing mutation (c.1432 + 1G > A; rs755959303), which was a pathogenic variant indicated in ClinVar. Based on FLCN mutation and the family history of pulmonary cysts and pneumothorax, BHD syndrome was finally diagnosed, which had been delayed for 3 years since her first pneumothorax.

Interventions:

Pulmonary bullectomy and pleurodesis were finally conducted due to the poor effects of thoracic close drainage.

Outcomes:

Her pneumothorax was resolved, and no recurrence was found in 2 years.

Lessons:

Our study highlights the importance of genetic analysis in diagnosis and clinical management of BHD syndrome.
Displays of 18F-FAPI PET/CT in Myocarditis With Variable Symptom Durations
Authors: Zhou Weicheng , Sun Jinju , Wang Fangyang , Wang Yi , Chen Xiao
Published: July 2023

We report cardiac 18F-FAPI PET/CT findings in 3 cases with myocarditis of varying duration (7 hours, 1 week, and 1 month). Myocarditis with varying symptom durations showed different 18F-FAPI uptake, suggesting that the 18F-FAPI PET/CT may be helpful in evaluating the extent of fibrosis caused by myocarditis. This information may assist in treatment decision-making for patients with myocarditis.
Reconstruction of Buccal-penetrating Defects Using the Double-folded Lateral Arm Free Flap
Authors: Deng Chuan-xi , Ding Zhang-fan , Zhu Gui-quan , Gan Jian-guo , Li Yi-ke , Xuan Ming
Published: July 2023

The reconstruction of buccal-penetrating defects remains challenging. The present study aims to explore the application value of the lateral arm free flap (LAFF) on the reconstruction of buccal-penetrating defects with the hope of providing a better option for clinical practice. Nineteen patients with this kind of issue posed by either tumor resections or deformities in the craniofacial regions were recruited in this study, and LAFF was employed to reconstruct these defects by double folding and individually designing the flap. All the flaps prepared for these subjects in our study survived, and the postoperative assessment of these subjects receiving LAFF revealed that this approach to managing buccal-penetrating defects is able to achieve satisfactory results in terms of appearance and functional recovery. Therefore, our study suggests that LAFF is 1 of the promising flaps to reconstruct the buccal-penetrating defects.
What Are the Effects on Palate of Early Lip Surgery in Children With Cleft Lip and Palate? Cross-Sectional Evaluation From 5-Year-Old
Authors: Ambrosio Eloá Cristina Passucci , Furiatto Arthur P. , Coutinho Marcelli S. , Quagliato Débora R. , Carrara Cleide Felício Carvalho , Machado Maria Aparecida Andrade Moreira , Oliveira Thais M. , Jorge Paula K.
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the postsurgical effects from 5 years on the palate after surgical repair of the lip at 3 or 9 months of age in children with cleft lip and palate. Eighty-four digitized dental impressions were divided into the following groups: group 1 (G1): lip surgery at 3 months of life; group 2 (G2): lip surgery at 9 months of life; group 3 (G3): without orofacial cleft. Five angular (C’IC, ICM, IC’M’, CMM’, and C’M’M) and 3 linear parameters (C-C’, c-c’, and M-M’) were evaluated. Statistical analysis was applied with α=5%. Intraclass Correlation Coefficient was significantly smaller in G1 than in G3 (P=0.005), while IC’M’ was significantly smaller in G3 than in G1 (P<0.001). C’M’M was significantly smaller in G1 than in G2 and G3 (P<0.001). The distances C-C’ and c-c’ were significantly smaller in G1 than in G2 and G3 (P<0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in both G1 and G2 (P<0.001, in all) in the analysis of palatal symmetry. Linear regression analysis showed that the, 11.2% of outcomes determined by c-c’ distance can be explained by the age of lip repair (P=0.013). In conclusion, lip surgery at 3 months of life showed a tendency toward more restriction in 5-year postsurgery palate development. The age of cheiloplasty is one of the factors that can influence palatal development; however, other factors may be associated and should be studied.
Ferroptosis in Autologous Fat Transplantation: A New Hypothesis
Authors: Lin Yan , Pan Bo , Mu Dali
Published: July 2023

Autologous adipose tissue transplantation is widely used for cosmetic and reconstruction of various areas in the body, often to repair soft tissue volume loss or contoured deformation. However, the application of fat transplantation is limited by unstable and unpredictable volume retention rates. At present, promoting adipose tissue survival and inhibiting its death is the key to improve the effect of autologous fat transplantation. In this paper, we propose a hypothesis that ferroptosis exists in fat transplantation. The bases of this hypothesis include the following: (1) the association between ferroptosis and other programmed cell death; (2) the association between ferroptosis and ischemia-reperfusion injury; and (3) the use of ferroptosis inhibitors in the field of fat transplantation.
Study on Microsurgical Anatomy of External Branch of Superior Laryngeal Nerve Related to Carotid Endarterectomy
Authors: Wu Xiangchen , Tong Xiaoguang , Shi Minggang , Shang Yanguo
Published: July 2023

Objective:

To explore the methods of protecting the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve during carotid endarterectomy through microsurgical anatomic study of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve in cadaveric specimens.

Methods:

A total of 30 cadaveric specimens (60 sides) were dissected to measure the thickness of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve. A triangular area was exposed, bounded by the lower border of the digastric muscle superiorly, the medial edge of the sternocleidomastoid muscle laterally, and the upper border of the superior thyroid artery inferiorly. The probability of the occurrence of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve in this area was observed and recorded. The distance among the midpoint of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve in this area with the tip of the mastoid process and the angle of the mandible as well as the bifurcation of the common carotid artery was measured and recorded.

Results:

Among 30 specimens of cadaveric heads (60 sides) examined 53 external branches of the superior laryngeal nerve were observed while 7 were absent. Of the 53 branches observed, 5 were located outside the anatomic triangle region mentioned above, while the remaining 48 branches were located within the anatomic triangle region with a probability of ~80%. The thickness of the midpoint of the external branches of the superior laryngeal nerve within the anatomic triangle region was 0.93 mm (0.72–1.15 mm [±0.83 SD]), located 0.34 cm [−1.62–2.43 cm (±0.96 SD)] posterior to the angle of the mandible, 1.28 cm (−1.33 to 3.42 cm (±0.93 SD)] inferiorly; 2.84 cm (0.51–5.14 cm±1.09 SD) anterior to the tip of the mastoid process, 4.51 cm (2.82–6.39 cm±0.76 SD) inferiorly; 1.64 cm [0.57–3.78 cm (±0.89 SD)] superior to the bifurcation of the carotid artery.

Conclusions:

During carotid endarterectomy procedure, using the cervical anatomic triangle region, as well as the angle of the mandible, the tip of the mastoid process, and the bifurcation of the carotid artery as anatomic landmarks, is of significant clinical importance for protecting the external branches of the superior laryngeal nerve.
Extended Superolateral Cheek Lift With a Short Preauricular Scar: A Local Anesthesia-based Practicable Technique for the Correction of Moderate-degree Facial Aging Signs
Authors: Okumus Ayhan
Published: July 2023

An ideal technique applicable to middle-aged individuals with a moderate degree of facial aging signs has not yet been established. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of an extended superolateral cheek lift with a short preauricular scar technique for the correction of facial aging signs. A total of 200 female patients (mean age: 43 y, range 27–56 y) who underwent a local anesthesia-based extended superolateral cheek lift for the correction of facial aging signs confined to the malar and nasolabial area, lower eyelid, jawline, and neck were included. Data on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, patient-reported outcomes, and complications were recorded at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. The Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores revealed exceptional improvement in 90% of patients along with no complications at month 24. None of the patients developed a depressed scar, skin necrosis, breaking of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system plication sutures, asymmetry, or facial nerve problems. At postoperative month 24, the appearance was reported to be very much improved by 90% of patients, and 94% of patients reported that they were very satisfied with the treatment and that they would recommend this treatment to friends and acquaintances. Our findings revealed the potential utility of an extended superolateral cheek lift with a short preauricular scar as a local anesthesia-based practicable technique for the correction of facial aging signs in middle-aged patients, offering a favorable postoperative outcome, lack of complications and high patient satisfaction in addition to invisible scars and a short-term postoperative recovery.
Sparse spatial scaffolding for visual working memory
Authors: Liu Baiwei , Alexopoulou Zampeta-Sofia , Kong Siyang , Zonneveld Anne , van Ede Freek
Published: July 2023

When holding information ‘in mind’, it is vital to keep individual representations separated and selectively accessible for behaviour. Space is known to serve as a foundational scaffold for mnemonic individuation, yet the format and flexibility of spatial scaffolding for working memory remain elusive. We hypothesised that information in working memory can be re-coded from its native format at encoding to organise and retain internal representations sparsely. To test this, we presented to-be-memorised visual objects at distinct directions and distances and leveraged gaze biases during mnemonic selection as an implicit read-out of spatial scaffolding for working memory. We report how the human brain abstracts away over incidental object distance when direction alone suffices as a scaffold, but incorporates distance when it aids mnemonic individuation. This unveils the principle of sparse spatial scaffolding for working memory, whereby the human brain flexibly resorts to the minimal spatial scaffold needed for the individuation of internal representations.
Microglia-derived TGF-β1 ligand maintains microglia homeostasis via autocrine mechanism and is critical for normal cognitive function in adult mouse brain
Authors: Bedolla Alicia , Wegman Elliot , Weed Max , Paranjpe Aditi , Alkhimovitch Anastasia , Ifergan Igal , McClain Lucas , Luo Yu
Published: July 2023

While TGF-β signaling is essential for microglial function, the cellular source of TGF-β ligand and its spatial regulation remains unclear in the adult CNS. Our data support that microglia, not astrocytes or neurons, are the primary producers of TGF-β1 ligands needed for microglial homeostasis. Microglia (MG)-Tgfb1inducible knockout (iKO) leads to the activation of microglia featuring a dyshomeostatic transcriptomic profile that resembles disease-associated microglia (DAMs), injury-associated microglia, and aged microglia, suggesting that microglial self-produced TGF-β1 ligands are important in the adult CNS. Interestingly, astrocytes in MG-Tgfb1iKO mice show a transcriptome profile that closely aligns with A1-like astrocytes. Additionally, using sparse mosaic single-cell microglia iKO of TGF-β1 ligand, we established an autocrine mechanism for TGF-β signaling. Importantly MG-Tgfb1iKO mice show cognitive deficits, supporting that precise spatial regulation of TGF-β1 ligand derived from microglia is critical for the maintenance of brain homeostasis and normal cognitive function in the adult brain.
Low intensity mechanical signals promote proliferation in a cell-specific manner: Tailoring a non-drug strategy to enhance biomanufacturing yields
Authors: Chan M. Ete , Strait Lia , Ashdown Christopher , Pasumarthy Sishir , Hassan Abdullah , Crimarco Steven , Singh Chanpreet , Patel Vihitaben S , Pagnotti Gabriel , Khan Omor , Uzer Gunes , Rubin Clinton T
Published: July 2023

Biomanufacturing relies on living cells to produce biotechnology-based therapeutics, tissue engineering constructs, vaccines, and a vast range of agricultural and industrial products. With the escalating demand for these bio-based products, any process that could improve yields and shorten outcome timelines by accelerating cell proliferation would have a significant impact across the discipline. While these goals are primarily achieved usingbiologicalorchemicalstrategies, harnessing cell mechanosensitivity represents a promising – albeit less studied –physicalpathway to promote bioprocessing endpoints, yet identifying which mechanical parameters influence cell activities has remained elusive. We tested the hypothesis that mechanical signals, delivered non-invasively using low-intensity vibration (LIV; <1g, 10-500Hz), will enhance cell expansion, and determined that any unique signal configuration was not equally influential across a range of cell types. Varying frequency, intensity, duration, refractory period, and daily doses of LIV increased proliferation in CHO-adherent cells (+79% in 96h) using a particular set of LIV parameters (0.2g, 500Hz, 3x30 min/d, 2h refractory period), yet this same mechanical inputsuppressedproliferation in CHO-suspension cells (-13%). Exposing these same CHO-suspension cells todistinctLIV parameters (30Hz, 0.7g, 2x60 min/d, 2h refractory period) increased proliferation by 210%. Particle image velocimetry combined with finite element modeling showed high transmissibility of these signals across fluids (>90%), and LIV effectively scaled up to T75 flasks. Ultimately, when LIV is tailored to the target cell population, its highly efficient transmission across media represents a means to non-invasively augment biomanufacturing endpoints for both adherent and suspended cells, and holds immediate applications, ranging from small-scale, patient-specific personalized medicine to large-scale commercial bio-centric production challenges.
Mapping multi-modal dynamic network activity during naturalistic music listening
Authors: Faber Sarah EM , Brown Tanya , Carpentier Sarah , McIntosh Anthony Randal
Published: July 2023

The human brain is a complex, adaptive system capable of parsing complex stimuli and generating complex behaviour. Understanding how to model and interpret the dynamic relationship between brain, behaviour, and the environment will provide vital information on how the brain responds to real-world stimuli, develops and ages, and adapts to pathology. Modelling together numerous streams of dynamic data, however, presents sizable methodological challenges. In this paper, we present a novel workflow and sample interpretation of a data set incorporating brain, behavioural, and stimulus data from a music listening study. We use hidden Markov modelling (HMM) to extract state timeseries from continuous high-dimensional EEG and stimulus data, estimate timeseries variables consistent with HMM from continuous low-dimensional behavioural data, and model the multi-modal data together using partial least squares (PLS). We offer a sample interpretation of the results, including a discussion on the limitations of the currently available tools, and discuss future directions for dynamic multi-modal analysis focusing on naturalistic behaviours.
A novel ex vivo bovine corneal infection and clearance model for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Ukachukwu Faith Uche , Alany Raid , Snyder Lori A.S.
Published: July 2023

Ocular infections caused by bacterial pathogens may damage the cornea and rapidly progress to permanent blindness. Topical application of an ophthalmic formulation is often used to treat corneal infections. The animal models used in many preclinical studies frequently involve expensivein vivoexperiments that compromises the corneal epithelium to mimic real life conditions such as during contact lens wear, but these do not consider other instances where infection occurs in intact corneas such as in ophthalmia neonatorum. To develop anex vivomodel of infection, bovine eyes from human food chain waste were processed and the corneas inoculated withNeisseria gonorrhoeaestrain NCCP 11945, Staphylococcus aureusstrain 6571, andPseudomonas aeruginosastrain ATCC 15442 for 1 hour, 4 hours, and 6 hours, respectively. Inoculation included intact bovine corneas and those compromised with scalpel, needle, and blot methods. Recovery ofN. gonorrhoeae,S. aureus,andP. aeruginosacolonies demonstrated that infection of bovine corneas was achieved with intact and compromised corneas using this model. In addition, corneas inoculated with the bacteria were treated with a suitable antibiotic, demonstrating clearance of the bacterial infections with at least 5 log10reduction. This model is appropriate for both establishing infection and testing the ability of antimicrobial agents to clear bacterial eye infections. The bovineex vivomodel is reliable, cost-effective, suitable for different bacteria species, and reduces the need for further animal exploitation in laboratory research.

Author Summary

Bacterial pathogens such asNeisseria gonorrhoeae,Staphylococcus aureus,andPseudomonas aeruginosainfect the eyes, damage the clear transparent cornea and may eventually cause blindness. Severalin vivoanimal models that have been used to investigate corneal infections in preclinical studies involve compromising the integrity of the corneal epithelium, which predisposes the eye to infection and simulates conditions of corneal abrasion suggested to be seen during contact lens wear. However, corneal infection in infants during ophthalmia neonatorum occurs with intact corneal epithelium and as such may not be explained by abrasion simulating models. Also,in vivoexperiments are expensive, involve invasive corneal procedures despite efforts at ethical compliance, and may be time consuming. Reliable models that are quicker, cost effective, cause less (or no) discomfort to animals, and simulate a wide range of corneal infection scenarios need to be explored. Here, we demonstrate the use of a novelex vivobovine eye model to establish bacterial infection of the cornea, with and without compromising the corneal epithelium, and clearance of the infection with selected antimicrobial agents. The optimisation of theex vivobovine corneal infection model may serve as a bridge betweenin vitroandin vivomodels of corneal infection.
Previous motor task performance impacts phase-based EEG resting-state connectivity states
Authors: Rosjat Nils , Hommelsen Maximilian , Fink Gereon R. , Daun Silvia
Published: July 2023

The resting human brain cycles through distinct states that can be analyzed using microstate analysis and electroencephalography (EEG) data. This approach classifies, multichannel EEG data into spontaneously interchanging microstates based on topographic features. These microstates may be valuable biomarkers in neurodegenerative diseases since they reflect the resting brain’s state. However, microstates do not provide information about the active neural networks during the resting-state.

This article presents an alternative and complementary method for analyzing resting-state EEG data and demonstrates its reproducibility and reliability. This method considers cerebral connectivity states defined by phase synchronization and measured using the corrected imaginary phase-locking value (ciPLV) based on source-reconstructed EEG recordings. We analyzed resting-state EEG data from young, healthy participants acquired on five consecutive days before and after a motor task. We show that our data reproduce microstates previously reported. Further, we reveal four stable topographic patterns over the multiple recording sessions in the source connectivity space. While the classical microstates were unaffected by a preceding motor task, the connectivity states were altered, reflecting the suppression of frontal activity in the post-movement resting-state.
Rat hepatitis E virus (HEV) cross-species infection and transmission in pigs
Authors: Yadav Kush K. , Boley Patricia A , Lee Carolyn M , Khatiwada Saroj , Jung Kwonil , Laocharoensuk Thamonpan , Hofstetter Jake , Wood Ronna , Hanson Juliette , Kenney Scott P.
Published: July 2023

Rocahepevirus ratti, an emerging hepatitis E virus (HEV), has recently been found to be infectious to humans. Rats are a primary reservoir of the virus; thus, it is referred to as “rat HEV”. Rats are often found on swine farms in close contact with pigs. Our goal was to determine whether swine may serve as a transmission host for rat HEV by characterizing an infectious cDNA clone of a zoonotic rat HEV, strain LCK-3110, in vitro and in vivo. RNA transcripts of LCK-3110 were constructed and assessed for their replicative capacity in cell culture and in gnotobiotic pigs. Fecal suspension from rat HEV-positive gnotobiotic pigs was inoculated into conventional pigs cohoused with naïve pigs. Our results demonstrated that capped RNA transcripts of LCK-3110 rat HEV replicated in vitro and successfully infected conventional pigs that transmit the virus to cohoused animals. The infectious clone of rat HEV may afford an opportunity to study the genetic mechanisms of rat HEV cross-species infection and tissue tropism.

Significance Statement

New zoonotic strains of Rocahepevirus ratti (rat HEV) have emerged infecting both immunocompetent and immunosuppressed people through unknown transmission sources. Pigs are a primary source of transmission for human HEV strains and could be serving a similar role for rat HEV transmission as rats are a common pest found on swine farms worldwide. Rats could be transmitting rat HEV to pigs which could then be transmitted to humans. Determining susceptibility of pigs to emerging zoonotic rat HEV strains can define potentially new transmission routes to inform public health policy and could provide pathology models for rat HEV disease.
Accurate quantification of lysyl oxidase concentration in human tissue
Authors: Yao Yimin , Perryman Lara , Zahoor Amna , Hamilton Ross , Stolp Jessica , Jarolimek Wolfgang
Published: July 2023

The family of Lysyl oxidase enzymes play fundamental roles in the formation of the extracellular matrix, through catalyzing the crosslinking of collagen and elastin fibers. Lysyl oxidase (LOX) — one of the 5 family members (LOX, LOXL1-4), is a disease biomarker, with blood concentration positively correlating with progression of fibrosis or cancer. An accurate quantification of LOX concentration can support diagnosis, monitoring of disease progression or treatment success. However, reported LOX concentrations in human blood are inconsistent. Therefore, a novel, high-throughput and sensitive digital enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was developed using two validated and selective human anti-LOX antibodies and single molecule array technology. Both, the 56 kDa pro-form and the 32 kDa active form can be accurately measured from recombinant and native protein. The serum LOX concentration correlated with LOX activity measured in the same platform using a bio-probe. The usefulness of this technology was demonstrated in serum from bladder cancer patients wherein LOX concentration was significantly higher compared to the healthy subjects. This study demonstrates the validation and use of a sensitive and accurate method for measuring LOX concentration in human samples. This novel method may be superior than some commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits for accurate measurement of LOX concentrations in clinical settings.
Antigenic variation impacts gonococcal lifestyle and antibiotic tolerance by modulating interbacterial forces
Authors: Wielert Isabelle , Kraus-Römer Sebastian , Volkmann Thorsten E. , Craig Lisa , Higgins Paul G. , Maier Berenike
Published: July 2023

Type 4 pili (T4P) are multifunctional filaments involved in adhesion, surface motility, colony formation, and horizontal gene transfer. These extracellular polymers are surface-exposed and, therefore, act as antigens. The human pathogenNeisseria gonorrhoeaeuses pilin antigenic variation to escape immune surveillance, yet it is unclear how antigenic variation impacts other functions of T4P. Here, we addressed this question by replacing the major pilin of a laboratory strain ofN. gonorrhoeaewith pilins from clinical isolates. Structural predictions reveal filament features that vary from one strain to the next, with the potential to impact pilus:pilus interactions. Using a combination of laser tweezers, electron microscopy, and advanced image analysis, we explore the phenotypic consequences of these structural changes. We reveal that strains differing only in their major pilin sequence vary substantially in their attractive forces, which we attribute to variations in the stereochemistry of the T4P filament. In liquid culture, strongly interacting bacteria form colonies while weakly interacting bacteria retain a planktonic lifestyle. We show that lifestyle strongly affects growth kinetics and antibiotic tolerance. In the absence of external stresses, planktonic bacteria grow faster than colony-forming bacteria. In the presence of the antibiotics ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin, the killing kinetics indicate strongly increased tolerance of colony-forming strains. We propose that pilin antigenic variation produces a mixed population containing variants optimized for growth, colonization, or survivability under external stress. Different environments select different variants, ensuring the survival and reproduction of the population as a whole.

Significance statement

Neisseriaare highly successful human pathogens that continuously vary their surface structures to escape immune surveillance. Antigenic variation of the major pilin subunit causes variations of the structure of the Type 4 pilus, a surface exposed virulence factor. Here, we investigate the effect of pilin antigenic variation on bacterial lifestyle and tolerance against antibiotics. We find that pilin antigenic variation causes changes in the physical interactions between the bacteria, resulting in distinct aggregating and planktonic phenotypes. During treatment with antibiotics, aggregating strains are more tolerant than planktonic strains by an order of magnitude. Since tolerance tends to facilitate resistance development, pilin antigenic variation reduces the efficiency of antibiotic treatment.
Cell-type specific optogenetic fMRI on basal forebrain reveals functional network basis of behavioral preference
Authors: Zou Yijuan , Tong Chuanjun , Peng Wanling , Qiu Yue , Li Jiangxue , Xia Ying , Pei Mengchao , Zhang Kaiwei , Li Weishuai , Xu Min , Liang Zhifeng
Published: July 2023

The basal forebrain (BF) is a complex structure that plays key roles in regulating various brain functions. However, it remains unclear how cholinergic and non-cholinergic BF neurons modulate large-scale functional networks and their relevance in intrinsic and extrinsic behaviors. With optimized awake mouse optogenetic fMRI approach, we revealed optogenetic stimulations of four BF neuron types evoked distinct cell-type specific whole-brain BOLD activations, which could attribute to BF-originated low dimensional structural networks. Additionally, optogenetic activation of VGLUT2, ChAT and PV neurons in BF modulated the preference of locomotion, exploration and grooming, respectively. Furthermore, we uncovered the functional network basis of the above BF-modulated behavioral preference, through a decoding model linking the BF-modulated BOLD activations, low dimensional structural networks, and behavioral preference. To summarize, we decoded functional network basis of differential behavioral preference with cell-type specific optogenetic fMRI on BF, and provided an avenue for investigating mouse behaviors from a whole-brain view.
Individual differences in spatial working memory strategies differentially reflected in the engagement of control and default brain networks
Authors: Purg Suljič Nina , Kraljič Aleksij , Rahmati Masih , Cho Youngsun T. , Slana Ozimič Anka , Murray John D. , Anticevic Alan , Repovš Grega
Published: July 2023

Spatial locations can be encoded and maintained in working memory using different representations and strategies. Fine-grained representations provide detailed stimulus information, but are cognitively demanding and prone to inexactness. The uncertainty in fine-grained representations can be compensated by the use of coarse, but robust categorical representations. In this study, we employed an individual differences approach to identify brain activity correlates of the use of fine-grained and categorical representations in spatial working memory. We combined data from six fMRI studies, resulting in a sample of 155 (77 women, 25 ± 5 years) healthy participants performing a spatial working memory task. Our results showed that individual differences in the use of spatial representations in working memory were associated with distinct patterns of brain activity. Higher precision of fine-grained representations was related to greater engagement of attentional and control brain systems throughout the task trial, and the stronger deactivation of the default network at the time of stimulus encoding. In contrast, the use of categorical representations was associated with lower default network activity during encoding and higher frontoparietal network activation during maintenance. These results may indicate a greater need for attentional resources and protection against interference for fine-grained compared to categorical representations.
High-resolution and high-sensitivity X-ray ptychographic coherent diffraction imaging using the CITIUS detector
Authors: Takahashi Yukio , Abe Masaki , Uematsu Hideshi , Takazawa Shuntaro , Sasaki Yuhei , Ishiguro Nozomu , Ozaki Kyosuke , Honjo Yoshiaki , Nishino Haruki , Kobayashi Kazuo , Hiraki Toshiyuki Nishiyama , Joti Yasumasa , Hatsui Takaki
Published: July 2023

Ptychographic coherent diffraction imaging (PCDI) is a synchrotron X-ray microscopy technique that provides high spatial resolution and a wide field of view. To improve the performance of PCDI, the performance of the synchrotron radiation source and imaging detector should be improved. In this study, ptychographic diffraction pattern measurements using the CITIUS high-speed X-ray image detector and the corresponding image reconstruction are reported. X-rays with an energy of 6.5 keV were focused by total reflection focusing mirrors, and a flux of ∼2.6 × 1010 photons s−1 was obtained at the sample plane. Diffraction intensity data were collected at up to ∼250 Mcounts s−1 pixel−1 without saturation of the detector. Measurements of tantalum test charts and silica particles and the reconstruction of phase images were performed. A resolution of ∼10 nm and a phase sensitivity of ∼0.01 rad were obtained. The CITIUS detector can be applied to the PCDI observation of various samples using low-emittance synchrotron radiation sources and to the stability evaluation of light sources.
Synthesis and crystal structure of a bench-stable pyridinium ketene hemiaminal: 1-(1-ethoxyethenyl)-2-[methyl(phenyl)amino]pyridin-1-ium trifluoromethanesulfonate
Authors: Krevlin Zoe A. , Bote Isabella C. , Crespo Maria Christina F. , Lam Christie C. , McMillen Colin D. , Majireck Max M.
Published: July 2023

The novel bench-stable N-quaternized ketene N,O-acetal, C16H19N2O+·CF3O3S−, was synthesized and its structure determined. The title compound is a rare example of a pyridinium ketene hemiaminal for which a crystal structure has been determined, joining the 2-chloro-1-(1-ethyoxyethenyl)pyridin-1-ium trifluoromethanesulfonate salt from which it was synthesized. The cationic species of the title compound can be defined by three individually planar fragments assembling into a non-coplanar cation. The phenyl substituent extending from the amino nitrogen atom and the ethyoxyvinyl substituent extending from the pyridine N atom are oriented on the same side of the molecule and maintain the closest coplanar relationship of the three fragments. Supramolecular interactions are dominated by C—H...O interactions from the cation to the SO3 side of the trifluoromethanesulfonate anion, forming a two-dimensional substructure.
Crystal structure of bis{S-octyl-3-[(thiophen-2-yl)methylidene]dithiocarbazato-κ2
N
3,S}nickel(II)
Authors: Khan Sultana Shakila , Howlader Md. Belayet Hossain , Sheikh Md. Chanmiya , Miyatake Ryuta , Zangrando Ennio
Published: July 2023

In the title complex, [Ni(C14H21N2S3)2], the nickel(II) atom is located on a crystallographic inversion center and exhibits a square-planar coordination environment, being coordinated by two negatively charged N,S-chelating ligands in a trans configuration. In the crystal, the non-H atoms of the complex are practically coplanar (r.m.s. deviation of fitted atoms = 0.135 Å), and the angle between the thienyl and the chelating rings is 6.7 (1)°. The molecules stack at a distance of 3.623 (2) Å along the b-axis direction.
Towards a dynamic conceptual model for understanding the impact of social isolation on SIE women's adjustment and career development
Authors: Schreuders Riana , Carita Andreia , van Aswegen Suzanne
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Self-initiated expatriates (SIE) women's career decisions are often based on the establishment of close personal relationships in various spheres of life. This paper aims to explore the effects of social isolation in times of crisis on SIE women's work, psychological and general adjustment.

Design/methodology/approach

The model of expatriate women's adjustment by Caligiuri and Lazarova (2002) is reviewed and adapted to account for the impact of social isolation and loneliness on SIE women's adjustment and professional development in a crisis context. The interplay between duration and intensity of crisis and acculturative stress over time is highlighted; danger zones for potential maladjustment are identified, and adjustment-as-a-crisis context are incorporated into the model.

Findings

The spillover effects between different life spaces in times of isolation have a negative impact on SIE women's ability to develop supportive relationships in different life spaces. The organization becomes the main point of contact with the host culture, but pressure to perform, uncertain contracts, gendered role division and the experience of a double crisis add to the existing acculturative stress which may lead to maladjustment or further fit-dependent crisis over time.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the theoretical understanding of the impact of social isolation on a single, vulnerable acculturating group, by expanding on an existing static model of adjustment, to account for the temporal (time) and spatial (multi-dimensional crisis context) constraints faced by SIE women which has not been done before.
How do entrepreneurial activities at different levels promote business growth: a review and research agenda
Authors: Wei Wu , Duan Jia
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to solve the realistic dilemma between the importance of entrepreneurship and the high rate of entrepreneurial failure, and to point out the direction of subsequent research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a literature review.

Findings

Entrepreneurial activities involve multiple dimensions. Entrepreneurs or entrepreneurial teams will be affected by multiple factors when starting a business, and sufficient attention should be paid to both the factors within the group and the factors outside the group such as institutional quality and market competition. High entrepreneurial failure rate is an essential characteristic of entrepreneurial activities, while solving this problem requires entrepreneurs to maintain passion, clarify their own motivation, improve their learning abilities and adopt appropriate entrepreneurial strategies to improve entrepreneurial performance. Meanwhile, it also urgent to build entrepreneurial teams with common goals, heterogeneous knowledge structure, outstanding learning ability, solid mutual trust, strong social influence and social capital. Successful entrepreneurship should adhere to the perspective of openness and cooperation. It should not only actively strengthen international cooperation but also fully adapt to the country’s system and culture. Sustainable growth of entrepreneurial enterprises requires not only stable commercial revenue but also responsibility to society, which in turn leads to a good reputation and high social recognition.

Practical implications

The authors hope this review can provide some insightful viewpoints for deepening the theoretical system of entrepreneurship, improving the success rate of entrepreneurship and promoting the sustainable growth of enterprises.

Originality/value

Further research can be carried out on the promotion of business growth by entrepreneurship at the micro level in the following aspects: analyze functional mechanism between innovation and entrepreneurship; entrepreneurship research by integrating multiple institutional contexts and cultural traditions; consider the changes in emerging technologies on entrepreneurial activities; diversified mechanism between entrepreneurship education and business growth.
Are library professionals overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic challenges in the current reality?
Authors: Begum Syeda Mukta , Habiba Umme
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on library and information services (LIS) and how library professionals overcome the challenges of COVID-19 pandemic in the current reality.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used quantitative and qualitative methods to investigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on Bangladesh’s LIS professionals. A structured online questionnaire was designed for the purpose of a quantitative survey. The respondents of this study were LIS professionals in all categories of libraries (e.g. academic libraries, public libraries, special libraries and national library) in Bangladesh. A total of 106 responses from LIS professionals in Bangladesh were received. This study analyzed qualitative data using Braun and Clark’s technique for thematic coding. Researchers interviewed librarians in two phases (during the COVID-19 pandemic and after COVID-19) about how libraries cope up with the COVID crisis. The descriptive findings were examined using diverse descriptive statistics (i.e. frequency numbers and percentages), and for examining the significant differences among demographics’ information regarding challenges faced by LIS professionals, Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests were conducted. The qualitative responses were carefully analyzed for familiarizing, coding and theme generation.

Findings

The result showed that most LIS professionals (i.e. 46.2% and 43.4%) had faced difficulties in accessing e-resources from home and had failed to maintain balance between work and personal life and to offer remote library services. The LIS professionals mostly used Facebook Messenger and Zoom to communicate with their colleagues and users. Furthermore, many LIS professionals (50.0%) secured their health and safety, adopted hygienic procedures at their workstations and provided virtual reference services. The qualitative findings show that though some libraries have faced challenges in providing online sources and services due to the absence of authority interest, budget scarcity and inadequate information and communication technology infrastructure, some libraries took the initiative to establish library institutional repository and make it available for users from home.

Research limitations/implications

The present study only concentrated on the staff and their actions during and after the pandemic, which was mentioned as a limitation. It would be more effective if the study also considered the user’s viewpoint. The researchers hope that this study will help LIS professionals to support and provide digital and innovative service initiatives in their organization.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first of its kind study in Bangladesh where the staff of all types of libraries expressed their views on the problems they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the steps they took recently to overcome them.