bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional control of human gametogenesis
Authors: Fang Fang , Iaquinta Phillip J , Xia Ninuo , Liu Lei , Diao Lei , Reijo Pera Renee A
Published: February 2022

The pathways of gametogenesis encompass elaborate cellular specialization accompanied by precise partitioning of the genome content in order to produce fully matured spermatozoa and oocytes. Transcription factors are an important class of molecules that function in gametogenesis to regulate intrinsic gene expression programs, play essential roles in specifying (or determining) germ cell fate and assist in guiding full maturation of germ cells and maintenance of their populations. Moreover, in order to reinforce or redirect cell fate in vitro, it is transcription factors that are most frequently induced, over-expressed or activated. Many reviews have focused on the molecular development and genetics of gametogenesis, in vivo and in vitro, in model organisms and in humans, including several recent comprehensive reviews: here, we focus specifically on the role of transcription factors. Recent advances in stem cell biology and multi-omic studies have enabled deeper investigation into the unique transcriptional mechanisms of human reproductive development. Moreover, as methods continually improve, in vitro differentiation of germ cells can provide the platform for robust gain- and loss-of-function genetic analyses. These analyses are delineating unique and shared human germ cell transcriptional network components that, together with somatic lineage specifiers and pluripotency transcription factors, function in transitions from pluripotent stem cells to gametes. This grand theme review offers additional insight into human infertility and reproductive disorders that are linked predominantly to defects in the transcription factor networks and thus may potentially contribute to the development of novel treatments for infertility.
Covered frozen elephant trunk technique for prevention of distal stent graft-induced new entry
Authors: Okamura Homare , Kitada Yuichiro , Wada Yohnosuke , Adachi Hideo
Published: February 2022

Distal stent graft-induced new entry is not rare after frozen elephant trunk implantation. We report a case of covered frozen elephant trunk placement for prevention of distal stent graft-induced new entry. Coverage of the rigid distal stent edge using a graft reduces mechanical stress on the intima and radial force of the distal stent; therefore, this technique can potentially prevent distal stent graft-induced new entry.
Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Monoclonal Antibodies VRC07-523LS and PGT121 Administered Subcutaneously for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevention
Authors: Mahomed Sharana , Garrett Nigel , Capparelli Edmund V , Osman Farzana , Harkoo Ishana , Yende-Zuma Nonhlanhla , Gengiah Tanuja N , Archary Derseree , Samsunder Natasha , Baxter Cheryl , Mkhize Nonhlanhla N , Modise Tandile , Carlton Kevin , McDermott Adrian , Moore Penny L , Karim Quarraisha Abdool , Barouch Dan H , Fast Patricia E , Mascola John R , Ledgerwood Julie E , Morris Lynn , Abdool Karim Salim S
Published: February 2022

Background

Effective, long-acting prevention approaches are needed to reduce human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) incidence. We evaluated the safety and pharmacokinetics of VRC07-523LS and PGT121 administered subcutaneously alone and in combination as passive immunization for young women in South Africa.

Methods

CAPRISA 012A was a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation phase 1 trial. We enrolled 45 HIV-negative women into 9 groups and assessed safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, neutralization activity, and antidrug antibody levels. Pharmacokinetic modeling was conducted to predict steady-state concentrations for 12- and 24-weekly dosing intervals.

Results

VRC07-523LS and PGT121, administered subcutaneously, were safe and well tolerated. Most common reactogenicity events were injection site tenderness and headaches. Nine product-related adverse events were mild and transient. Median VRC07-523LS concentrations after 20 mg/kg doses were 9.65 μg/mL and 3.86 μg/mL at 16 and 24 weeks. The median week 8 concentration after the 10 mg/kg PGT121 dose was 8.26 μg/mL. Modeling of PGT121 at 20 mg/kg showed median concentrations of 1.37 μg/mL and 0.22 μg/mL at 16 and 24 weeks. Half-lives of VRC07-523LS and PGT121 were 29 and 20 days. Both antibodies retained neutralizing activity postadministration and no antidrug antibodies were detected.

Conclusions

Subcutaneous administration of VRC07-523LS in combination with optimized versions of PGT121 or other antibodies should be further assessed for HIV prevention.
Examination of the Interaction between Parental Military-Status and Race among Non-Hispanic Black and Non-Hispanic White Adolescents with Overweight/Obesity
Authors: Higgins Neyland M K , Shank Lisa M , Lavender Jason M , Burke Natasha L , Rice Alexander , Gallagher-Teske Julia , Markos Bethelhem , Faulkner Loie M , Djan Kweku G , Kwarteng Esther A , LeMay-Russell Sarah , Parker Megan N , Schvey Natasha A , Sbrocco Tracy , Wilfley Denise E , Ford Brian , Ford Caitlin , Haigney Mark , Klein David A , Olsen Cara H , Quinlan Jeffrey , Jorgensen Sarah , Brady Sheila , Shomaker Lauren B , Yanovski Jack A , Tanofsky-Kraff Marian
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Adolescent military-dependents experience distinct risk and protective factors, which may necessitate additional clinical considerations. In civilian youth, overweight/obesity is associated with eating, internalizing, and externalizing difficulties, with some studies reporting more difficulties among non-Hispanic White (vs. non-Hispanic Black) youth. It is unknown if these disparities exist among adolescent military-dependents, or between civilian and military-dependent youth.

Methods

Non-Hispanic Black (187 civilian, 38 military-dependent) and non-Hispanic White (205 civilian, 84 military-dependent) adolescents with overweight/obesity (14.7 ± 1.6 years; 73.9% girls; body mass index adjusted for age and sex 1.9 ± 0.5) completed a disordered-eating interview; parents completed a measure assessing their child’s internalizing and externalizing difficulties. Multiple linear regressions examined parental military-status as a moderator of the relationship of participant race with eating, internalizing, and externalizing difficulties.

Results

    White civilian youth with overweight/obesity reported significantly greater disordered-eating than their Black peers (p < .001); there were no other significant racial differences. In all regressions, parental military-status significantly moderated the association between race and each dependent variable (ps < .047). Black military-dependents (vs. civilians) reported more disordered-eating and internalizing difficulties (ps = .01). White military-dependents (vs. civilians) reported fewer externalizing difficulties (p = .01).

Conclusions

    Black adolescent military-dependents with overweight/obesity may experience more eating and internalizing difficulties (vs. civilians), a pattern not observed among White participants. Future work should examine if being a military-dependent and a historically marginalized racial group member accounts for these findings. Such data may inform providers of youth with intersecting minority identities.
Emerging avenues for the management of cerebral malaria
Authors: Das Nivedita , Prabhu Priyanka
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Cerebral malaria (CM) is a lethal complication of Plasmodium falciparum infection. The multifactorial pathogenesis of the disease involving parasitic invasion of erythrocytes and sequestration of infected erythrocytes within the cerebral blood vessels leading to neuroinflammation and blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption demands a multi-pronged treatment strategy. This article gives a brief overview of the pathogenesis of CM, challenges associated with its treatment and potential strategies to combat the same.

Key findings

There are several roadblocks in the successful treatment of CM. Resistance to artemisinin-based therapies has been reported in malaria-endemic regions. The paucity of targeted delivery to the brain necessitates the administration of antimalarials such as quinine in large doses causing toxic effects. There is a need for compounds to prevent oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and BBB disruption to decrease the menace of neurological sequelae associated with CM.

Extensive research endeavours are now oriented towards investigating compounds that can act against neuroinflammation; developing brain-targeted nanocarriers to selectively deliver therapeutics against CM; and repurposing existing drugs and a combination of antimalarial and anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory molecules for the treatment of CM. Protocols for evaluating novel proposed therapies against CM should be revisited to integrate monitoring of neurological parameters in parallel with the estimation of parasite load and survival.
Efficacy and safety of daily treatments for drug-susceptible pulmonary tuberculosis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Imazu Priscila , Santos Josiane M , Beraldi-Magalhães Francisco , Fernandez-Llimos Fernando , Tonin Fernanda S , Pontarolo Roberto
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To evaluate and update the evidence on the comparative efficacy and safety of antimicrobial drugs regimens for treating pulmonary drug-susceptible tuberculosis (DS-TB).

Methods

A systematic review was performed with searches in PubMed and Scopus (PROSPERO-CRD42019141463). We included randomised controlled trials comparing the effect of any antimicrobial regimen lasting at least 2 weeks. The outcomes of interest were culture conversion and incidence of adverse events. Bayesian network meta-analyses and surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) analyses were performed. Results were reported as odds ratio with 95% credibility intervals.

Key findings

Fifteen studies were included the meta-analysis (n = 7560 patients). No regimen was statistically more effective than the WHO standard approach (rifampicin, isoniazid, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide). The use of rifapentine 450 mg instead of rifampicin in the standard regimen demonstrated to be statistically safer than all other options for serious adverse events (e.g. hepatotoxicity, arthralgia) (OR ranging from 0.0 [Crl 0.00–0.04] to 0.0 [0.00–0.97]; SUCRA probabilities of 10%). Therapies containing rifapentine (Rp1500HEZ, Rp900HEZ) and moxifloxacin (RMEZ, RHMZ) are effective regarding culture conversion, but statistical uncertainty on their safety profile exists.

Conclusion

The WHO standard regimen remains an overall effective and safe alternative for DS-TB. For intensive phase treatments, drugs combinations with rifapentine and moxifloxacin seem to reduce treatment duration while maintaining efficacy.
Evaluation of methotrexate-loaded surfactants, ceramides and cholesterol-based lamellar phases as a topical treatment for psoriasis
Authors: Alves Cintia Oliveira , Novaes Rômulo Dias , Bernardes Maria Tereza Carneiro Paschoal , Gonçalves Reggiani Vilela , da Silva Laíla Pereira , Agostini Sandra Barbosa Neder , Pereira Gislaine Ribeiro , Carvalho Flávia Chiva
Published: February 2022

Objective

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. Oral or subcutaneous methotrexate (MTX) is a first-line antipsoriatic treatment, whose adverse effects can be observed even at low doses. To minimize systemic side effects, antipsoriatic drugs should be administered topically, since they could permeate the stratum corneum. As liquid crystals with lamellar phase (LP) can be helpful in promoting skin permeation, this work evaluated two MTX-loaded LPs (C1CH and C1CHCE), based on stearic acid, cholesterol and ceramides, like topical treatments for mice with imiquimod-induced psoriasis.

Methods

C1CH and C1CHCE were topically administered to mice with imiquimod-induced psoriasis. Dexamethasone cream was used as positive treatment control. Skin histology and inflammation biomarkers were assessed.

Key findings

C1CH and C1CHCE exhibited marked immunomodulatory effects and induced extensive microstructural skin remodelling on the epidermis and dermis. These formulations increased keratinization score, epidermis thickness, inflammatory infiltrate, hair follicle hypertrophy and vascular congestion in the dermis. C1CH and C1CHCE also attenuated IL-10 upregulation and upregulated IL-1, IFN-γ, TNF-α and prostaglandin E2 levels, as well as myeloperoxidase, N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase and cyclooxygenase 2 activity compared with untreated psoriatic animals.

Conclusion

Although liquid crystals have been reported as good options for carrying topical drugs, they need to be carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis.
X-ray intraday variability and power spectral density profiles of the blazar 3C 273 with XMM–Newton during 2000–2021
Authors: Pavana Gowtami G S , Gaur Haritma , Gupta Alok C , Wiita Paul J , Liao Mai , Ward Martin
Published: February 2022

We present X-ray intraday variability and power spectral density (PSD) analyses of the longest 23 pointed XMM–Newton observations of the blazar 3C 273 that were taken during 2000–2021. These good time intervals contain between 5 and 24.6 h of data. Variability has been estimated in three energy bands: 0.2–2 keV (soft), 2–10 keV (hard), and 0.2–10 keV (total). 9 of the 23 observations exhibited some variability, though no major variations exceeding 5 per cent were detected. Typical time-scales for variability were ∼1 ks. For those variable light curves, we find that a power-law model provides good fits to each PSD, with most of the slopes between −1.7 and −2.8. Although no variations of hardness ratio (HR) could be measured in any individual observation, an anticorrelation in flux and HR is found in long term data that indicates a harder when brighter trend. Our flux and spectral analyses indicate that both particle acceleration and synchrotron cooling processes make an important contribution to the emission from this blazar.
MeerKAT’s view of double radio relic galaxy cluster Abell 3376
Authors: Chibueze James O , Akamatsu Hiroki , Parekh Viral , Sakemi Haruka , Ohmura Takumi , van Rooyen Ruby , Akahori Takuya , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Machida Mami , Takeuchi Tsutomu T , Smirnov Oleg , Kleiner Dane , Maccagni Filippo M
Published: February 2022

We present the initial results of our MeerKAT L-band observations of Abell 3376. We achieved higher (5″) angular resolution and better (∼4 μ Jy beam−1) sensitivity compared to the previous observations. Our achieved sensitivity is only a factor of 2 larger than the thermal noise of MeerKAT. Astrometric and flux comparison of discrete compact sources in the field between MeerKAT and the Very Large Array (VLA) indicated that our calibration procedures were successful. We detected West and East relics, and radio galaxies, which have been observed in previous works. With minimal missing flux problem in our MeerKAT observations, we derived the spectral indices of the West relic (−1.22 ± 0.05), East relic (−1.33 ± 0.08) and central radio galaxies (−0.94 ± 0.05). The improved images revealed faint, extending radio arcs for relics, and connection between the East relic and radio galaxies. It is probable that (at least some of) the re-accelerated electrons of the East relic are supplied by the jets of the radio galaxies. No significant diffuse radio emission was found in cluster central part, supporting previous works with a much better upper limit of radio flux of <1.8 × 1023 W Hz−1.
SKIP Regulates ABA Signaling through Alternative Splicing in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhang Wei , Wei Jianbo , Gao Zhaoxu , Guan Jianing , Cui Zhibo , Wang Xiaoxue
Published: February 2022

Abscisic acid (ABA) plays key roles in plant development and responses to abiotic stresses. A wide number of transcriptional and posttranslational regulatory mechanisms of ABA signaling are known; however, less is known about the regulatory roles of alternative splicing. In this work, we found that SKIP, a splicing factor, positively regulates ABA signaling. SKIP binds to the pre-mRNA of ABA signaling-related genes, such as PYL7, PYL8, ABI1, HAB1 and ABI5, to regulate their splicing. The precursor mRNA alternative splicing of several PYL receptors, PP2C phosphatases and ABF transcriptional factors is disrupted by the skip-1 mutation. The abnormal alternative splicing in skip-1 represses the expression of ABA-positive regulators, including PYLs and ABFs, and activates the expression of ABA-negative regulators, such as PP2Cs, which confers ABA hyposensitive phenotype of skip-1. We also found that ABA-mediated genome-wide alternative splicing and differential gene expression are changed by the skip-1 mutation. The number of the differential splicing events is increased by skip-1; however, the number of differential expressed genes in response to ABA is reduced by skip-1. Our results reveal a principle on how a splicing factor regulates ABA signaling and ABA-mediated genome-wide alternative splicing.
CONSTITUTIVE EXPRESSER OF PATHOGENESIS-RELATED GENES 5 is an RNA-binding protein controlling plant immunity via an RNA processing complex
Authors: Peng Shun , Guo Dongbei , Guo Yuan , Zhao Heyu , Mei Jun , Han Yakun , Guan Rui , Wang Tianhua , Song Teng , Sun Keke , Liu Yunhan , Mao Ting , Chang Huan , Xue Jingshi , Cai Yingfan , Chen Dong , Wang Shui
Published: February 2022

Plant innate immunity is capable of combating diverse and ever evolving pathogens. The plasticity of innate immunity could be boosted by RNA processing. Arabidopsis thaliana CONSTITUTIVE EXPRESSER OF PATHOGENESIS-RELATED GENES 5 (CPR5), a key negative immune regulator, is a component of the nuclear pore complex. Here we further identified CPR5 as a component of RNA processing complexes. Through genetic screening, we found that RNA splicing activator NineTeen Complex and RNA polyadenylation factor CLEAVAGE AND POLYADENYLATION SPECIFICITY FACTOR, coordinately function downstream of CPR5 to activate plant immunity. CPR5 and these two regulators form a complex that is localized in nuclear speckles, an RNA processing organelle. Intriguingly, we found that CPR5 is an RNA-binding protein belonging to the Transformer 2 (Tra2) subfamily of the serine/arginine-rich family. The RNA recognition motif of CPR5 protein binds the Tra2-targeted RNA sequence in vitro and is functionally replaceable by those of Tra2 subfamily proteins. In planta, it binds RNAs of CPR5-regulated alternatively spliced genes (ASGs) identified by RNA-seq. ARGONAUTE 1 (AGO1) is one of the ASGs and, consistent with this, the ago1 mutant suppresses the cpr5 phenotype. These findings reveal that CPR5 is an RNA-binding protein linking RNA processing with plant immunity.
The CCCH zinc finger protein C3H15 negatively regulates cell elongation by inhibiting brassinosteroid signaling
Authors: Chai Guohua , Qi Guang , Wang Dian , Zhuang Yamei , Xu Hua , Bai Zetao , Bai Ming-Yi , Hu Ruibo , Wang Zeng-yu , Zhou Gongke , Kong Yingzhen
Published: February 2022

Plant CCCH proteins participate in the control of multiple developmental and adaptive processes, but the regulatory mechanisms underlying these processes are not well known. In this study, we showed that the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) CCCH protein C3H15 negatively regulates cell elongation by inhibiting brassinosteroid (BR) signaling. Genetic and biochemical evidence showed that C3H15 functions downstream of the receptor BR INSENSITIVE 1 (BRI1) as a negative regulator in the BR pathway. C3H15 is phosphorylated by the GLYCOGEN SYNTHASE KINASE 3 -like kinase BR-INSENSITIVE 2 (BIN2) at Ser111 in the cytoplasm in the absence of BRs. Upon BR perception, C3H15 transcription is enhanced, and the phosphorylation of C3H15 by BIN2 is reduced. The dephosphorylated C3H15 protein accumulates in the nucleus, where C3H15 regulates transcription via G-rich elements (typically GGGAGA). C3H15 and BRASSINAZOLE RESISTANT 1 (BZR1)/BRI1-EMS-SUPPRESSOR 1 (BES1), two central transcriptional regulators of BR signaling, directly suppress each other and share a number of BR-responsive target genes. Moreover, C3H15 antagonizes BZR1 and BES1 to regulate the expression of their shared cell elongation-associated target gene, SMALL AUXIN-UP RNA 15 (SAUR15). This study demonstrates that C3H15-mediated BR signaling may be parallel to, or even attenuate, the dominant BZR1 and BES1 signaling pathways to control cell elongation. This finding expands our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying BR-induced cell elongation in plants.
Cultivating health policy capacity through network governance in New Zealand: learning from divergent stories of policy implementation
Authors: Tenbensel Tim , Silwal Pushkar Raj
Published: February 2022

Wu, Howlett, and Ramesh’s understanding of policy capacity has been used to identify generalizable strengths and weaknesses of specific jurisdictions and policy sectors such as health. In an extension of this work, Howlett and Ramesh have argued that the mode of governance of a policy sector accentuates the importance of specific elements of policy capacity. In this paper we focus on the implementation of the System Level Measures Framework (SLMF) in New Zealand that has been specifically focused on health systems improvement and which aimed to do so by fostering network governance at the local level. However, this policy is introduced in a context in which there has been significant contestation regarding which mode of governance—network or hierarchy—is dominant in New Zealand health policy. By exploring three divergent local cases of implementation of the SLMF we develop three arguments that contribute to the literature on policy capacity and health. Firstly, local histories of interorganizational play a crucial role in shaping health policy capacity. Secondly, it is crucially important to understand the dynamics and feedback loops between operational, political, and analytical policy capacity. Network and hierarchical governance are characterized by distinct and contrasting understandings of the content of policy capacity elements and of the way in which they are dynamically related. Thirdly, the key challenge in developing policy capacity compatible with network governance is how to facilitate this capacity when connections between operational, political, and analytical policy capacity fail to fire.
What helps people to reduce or stop self-harm? A systematic review and meta-synthesis of first-hand accounts
Authors: Brennan Cathy A , Crosby Helen , Sass Cara , Farley Kate L , Bryant Louise D , Rodriquez-Lopez Rocio , Romeu Daniel , Mitchell Elizabeth , House Allan O , Guthrie Else
Published: February 2022

Background

Self-harm is an important public health problem but therapeutic interventions, particularly for people who have a history of multiple repetition, are not always taken up or effective when they are. The aim of this review is to explore first-hand accounts of what helps outside therapy and identify actions and processes, which can support the reduction or cessation of self-harm.

Methods

A systematic review and thematic meta-synthesis of the first-person accounts of what has helped to reduce or stop self-harm reported in primary studies.

Results

The meta-synthesis combined 546 participant excerpts from 56 studies. Two over-arching themes were identified: (i) breaking the chain incorporated actions taken to break the link between a person’s current psychological or social state and the act of self-harm and (ii) building a new foundation for change captured actions over the longer-term, focusing on practical changes in relationships and in a person’s way of life, such as work or living arrangements.

Conclusions

The results emphasize the importance of interpersonal change in reducing or stopping self-harm. While interpersonal factors are acknowledged as important reasons behind self-harm, they are often under-represented in self-management advice and therapeutic interventions that focus on individual psychopathology.
Sarilumab reduces disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis patients with inadequate response to janus kinase inhibitors or tocilizumab in regular care in Germany
Authors: Tony Hans-Peter , Feist Eugen , Aries Peer Malte , Zinke Silke , Krüger Klaus , Ahlers Jonas , Albrecht Inka , Barrionuevo Christian , Kalus Stefanie , Burkhardt Harald
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of sarilumab in RA patients after inadequate response (IR) to janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) and tocilizumab.

Methods

The prospective, observational, 24-month single-arm PROSARA study (SARILL08661) is currently running in Germany at 96 sites. RA patients were prospectively selected at the physician’s discretion according to label. This interim analysis included 536 patients over a treatment course of ≤6 months. Patients were stratified in four groups according to pretreatment before the start of sarilumab therapy: last prior treatment JAKi (JAKi-IR); last prior treatment tocilizumab (tocilizumab-IR); any other biological DMARD (bDMARD) in treatment history (bDMARD TH); and patients who had not received any bDMARDs or targeted synthetic (ts) DMARDs (b/tsDMARD naive) before.

Results

For this preplanned interim analysis, 536 patients were included in the baseline population, of whom 502 patients had at least one corresponding post-baseline effectiveness assessment documented (main analysis population). In all analysed cohorts, safety was consistent with the anticipated profile of sarilumab, without new safety signals. Six months of sarilumab treatment attenuated disease activity in JAKi-IR, tocilizumab-IR, bDMARD TH and b/tsDMARD-naive patients to a very similar extent. Physical function did not change substantially over the course of treatment. Rates of premature study discontinuation were comparable between cohorts.

Conclusion

Sarilumab treatment was effective in patients with IR to JAKi and tocilizumab, with an expectable safety profile and drug retention over 6 months. Confirmation of these promising results should encourage further studies on this treatment sequence, which is of high practical relevance.

Study registration

Paul-Ehrlich-Institut—Federal Institute for Vaccine and Biomedics, SARILL08661.
Passive-Aggressive Trading: The Supply and Demand of Liquidity by Mutual Funds
Authors: Christoffersen Susan K , Keim Donald B , Musto David K , Rzeźnik Aleksandra
Published: February 2022

Active mutual funds supply liquidity when demanding it becomes uneconomical. They tilt toward cheaper buy trades after inflows deplete their trading ideas, when trading ideas in general run low, and when they have more stocks to supply liquidity to, and their cheaper trades perform worse. Their largest trades are more likely to supply liquidity, explaining why they were not broken up. Funds perform better when they pay more for their buys and perform worse when they pay more for their sells, consistent with the implied value of the trades and the correlation between what a fund trades and what it holds.
VARIATION IN RADIATION DOSE RATES FROM RADIONUCLIDES DISCHARGED BY THE SPENT NUCLEAR FUEL REPROCESSING PLANT IN ROKKASHO UNDER DIFFERENT YEARLY WEATHER CONDITIONS
Authors: Abe K , Oshima K , Chiang J H , Suwa H , Hisamatsu S
Published: February 2022

The radiation dose rate from radionuclides released by the spent nuclear fuel reprocessing plant in Rokkasho, Japan, was assessed for a year specified in the safety review during which the weather conditions were not significantly different from those of the other 10 y. However, the actual year-by-year variation in annual radiation dose rate was not examined. A model system for evaluating the dose rate from the radionuclides released into the atmosphere was constructed. In this study, the radiation dose rate in the weather conditions of 24 weather bins was estimated for a standard year by the model. The annual maximum dose rate from 1959 to 2012 was estimated using a simplified method that integrated the dose rates of each weather bin in the standard year by estimating the annual frequency of the bin in the target year. We obtained ~1.3 as the maximum/minimum ratio of the annual maximum dose rate.
Achieving regulatory legitimacy in volatile institutional contexts: the case of Russian non-profits
Authors: Ljubownikow Sergej , Crotty Jo
Published: February 2022

This article examines organizational legitimacy within a volatile socio-political context. Drawing on qualitative data from non-profit organizations (NPOs) in the Russian Federation, we explore the question of how organizations gain regulatory legitimacy in such an uncertain and hostile socio-political context. Our study highlights that in such a context, the state often fails to grant regulatory legitimacy to NPOs. In response, NPOs seek to achieve regulatory legitimacy via symbolic acts and supplement these with a range of substantive activities. Such actions help demonstrate organizational effectiveness to the government and generate trust with individuals in the regional state apparatus. We show that regulatory legitimacy requires a more nuanced examination in contexts that make it difficult for organizations to routinize its attainment. Thus, our article contributes to legitimacy theory by exploring how key aspects of organizational legitimacy are conditioned and constituted by the socio-political context.
The national-populist mutation of neoliberalism in dependent economies: the case of Viktor Orbán’s Hungary
Authors: Scheiring Gábor
Published: February 2022

This article offers a new conceptual framework to analyze the national-populist mutation of neoliberalism in foreign investment-dependent economies. By extending the emerging literature on the mutation of neoliberalism, the article challenges the conventional view of populism as a revolt against liberal capitalism and businesses. Following theory-testing process tracing, the article substantiates this theoretical framework through a detailed mixed-method study of the strategic test case of Viktor Orbán’s Hungary. Utilizing new empirical material on businesses and policymakers, the article shows how the polarization of the business class rooted in global dependency structures, in interaction with a rising group of nationalist technocrats, has contributed to the national-populist mutation of neoliberalism. National-populist neoliberalism entails a new power bloc, a new compromise between national and transnational capital. It has preserved the core tenets of neoliberalism while modifying some of its peripheral elements and cutting back on avant-garde excesses to ensure the political viability of neoliberalism.
Trends in development of the beneficial ownership concept in Russian case law
Authors: Koretnikova Ekaterina
Published: February 2022

As the concepts of trust and beneficial ownership are unknown in Russian civil law, legal practitioners frequently encounter difficulties while they try to recognise and enforce the rights of beneficial owners or their creditors. The study analyses the main approaches to understanding of beneficial ownership in the private law of the Russian Federation. It has been concluded that due to the lack of normative regulation, the concept of beneficial ownership is understood through the lens of public law regulations: tax as well as anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism legislation in most court decisions. The author also suggests some solutions to resolve the issues.
Systemic effects ofTuber melanosporuminoculation in twoCorylus avellanagenotypes
Authors: Sillo Fabiano , Brunetti Cecilia , Marroni Fabio , Vita Federico , dos Santos Nascimento Luana Beatriz , Vizzini Alfredo , Mello Antonietta , Balestrini Raffaella
Published: February 2022

Roots of the European hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.), i.e., one of the most economically important nut species, form symbiosis with ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi, including truffles. Although physical interactions only occur in roots, the presence of mycorrhizal fungi can lead to metabolic changes at a systemic level, i.e., in leaves. However, how root colonization by ECM fungi modifies these processes in the host plant has so far not been widely studied. This work aimed to investigate the response in two C. avellana genotypes, focusing on leaves from plants inoculated with the black truffle Tuber melanosporum Vittad. Transcriptomic profiles of leaves of colonized plants were compared with those of non-colonized plants, as well as sugar and polyphenolic content. Results suggested that T. melanosporum has the potential to support plants in stressed conditions, leading to the systemic regulation of several genes involved in signaling and defense responses. Although further confirmation is needed, our results open new perspectives for future research aimed to highlight novel aspects in ECM symbiosis.
Pregnancy and Labor Epidural Effects on Gastric Emptying: A Prospective Comparative Study
Authors: Bouvet Lionel , Schulz Thomas , Piana Federica , Desgranges François-Pierrick , Chassard Dominique
Published: February 2022

Background

The lack of reliable data on gastric emptying of solid food during labor has led to some discrepancies between current guidelines regarding fasting for solid food in the parturient. This prospective comparative study aimed to test the hypothesis that the gastric emptying fraction of a light meal would be reduced in parturients receiving epidural analgesia and with no labor analgesia compared with nonpregnant and pregnant women.

Methods

Ten subjects were enrolled and tested in each group: nonpregnant women, term pregnant women, parturients with no labor analgesia, and parturients with epidural labor analgesia. After a first ultrasound examination was performed to ensure an empty stomach, each subject ingested a light meal (125 g yogurt; 120 kcal) within 5 min. Then ultrasound measurements of the antral area were performed at 15, 60, 90, and 120 min. The fraction of gastric emptying at 90 min was calculated as [(antral area90 min / antral area15 min) – 1] × 100, and half-time to gastric emptying was also determined. For the Parturient–Epidural group, the test meal was ingested within the first hour after the induction of epidural analgesia.

Results

The median (interquartile range) fraction of gastric emptying at 90 min was 52% (46 to 61), 45% (31 to 56), 7% (5 to 10), and 31% (17 to 39) for nonpregnant women, pregnant women, parturients without labor analgesia, and parturients with labor epidural analgesia, respectively (P < 0.0001). The fraction of gastric emptying at 90 min was statistically significant and lower in the Parturient–Epidural group than in the Nonpregnant and Pregnant Control groups. In addition, the fraction of gastric emptying at 90 min was statistically significant and lower in the Parturient–No-Epidural group than in the Parturient–Epidural group.

Conclusions

Gastric emptying in parturients after a light meal was delayed, and labor epidural analgesia seems not to worsen but facilitates gastric emptying. This should be taken into consideration when allowing women in labor to consume a light meal.

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Ending the HIV epidemic for all, not just some: structural racism as a fundamental but overlooked social-structural determinant of the US HIV epidemic
Authors: Bowleg Lisa , Malekzadeh Arianne N. , Mbaba Mary , Boone Cheriko A.
Published: February 2022

Purpose of review

We review the recent theoretical and empirical literature on structural racism, social determinants of health frameworks within the context of HIV prevention and treatment, and criticism of the national responses to the US epidemic.

Recent findings

In line with growing mainstream attention to the role of structural racism and health inequities, recent editorials and studies cite ending structural racism as an essential step to ending the US HIV epidemic. Recent studies demonstrate that barriers rooted in structural racism such as incarceration, housing instability, police discrimination, neighborhood disadvantage, health service utilization and community violence, and poor or no access to social services, transportation, and childcare, are barriers to HIV prevention. Recent articles also criticize national responses to HIV such as the ending the HIV epidemic (EHE) and National HIV/AIDS Strategy plans for failing to address structural racism and prioritize community engagement in EHE efforts.

Collectively, the articles in this review highlight a growing consensus that the US has no real chance of EHE for all, absent a meaningful and measurable commitment to addressing structural racism and intersectional discrimination as core determinants of HIV, and without more equitable engagement with community-based organizations and communities disproportionately affected by HIV.
Oophorectomy and rate of dementia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Uldbjerg Cecilie S. , Wilson Louise F. , Koch Trine , Christensen Jane , Dehlendorff Christian , Priskorn Lærke , Abildgaard Julie , Simonsen Mette K. , Lim Youn-Hee , Jørgensen Jeanette T. , Andersen Zorana J. , Juul Anders , Hickey Martha , Brauner Elvira V.
Published: February 2022

Objective:

Globally, dementia disproportionally affects women, which is not fully explained by higher female longevity. Oophorectomy at any age leads to the permanent loss of ovarian sex steroids, potentially increasing the risk of dementia. We aimed to investigate the association between oophorectomy and dementia and whether this was conditional on age at oophorectomy, hysterectomy or use of hormone therapy (HT).

Methods:

A prospective study of 24,851 female nurses from the Danish Nurse Cohort. Nurses were followed from age 60 years or entry into the cohort, whichever came last, until date of dementia, death, emigration or end of follow-up (December 31, 2018), whichever came first. Poisson regression models with log-transformed person-years as offset were used to estimate the associations.

Results:

During 334,420 person-years of follow-up, 1,238 (5.0%) nurses developed dementia and 1,969 (7.9%)/ 1,016 (4.1%) contributed person-time after bilateral-/unilateral oophorectomy. In adjusted analyses, an 18% higher rate of dementia was observed following bilateral oophorectomy (aRR 1.18: 95% CI, 0.89-1.56) and 13% lower rate (aRR 0.87: 95% CI, 0.59-1.23) following unilateral oophorectomy compared to nurses who retained their ovaries. Similar effects were detected after stratification according to age at oophorectomy. No statistically significant modifying effects of hysterectomy or HT were detected (P
interaction≥0.60).

Conclusions:

Bilateral, but not unilateral, oophorectomy was associated with an increased rate of incident dementia. We were unable to establish whether this association was conditional on hysterectomy or HT use. Although an increase in dementia after bilateral oophorectomy is biologically plausible, limited statistical power hampers the precision of the estimates.
Nurses’ Experiences of Assisting by Touch in Older Adult Care
Authors: Tolmunen Pirkko , Lämås Kristina , Santamäki Fischer Regina , Vaartio-Rajalin Heli
Published: February 2022

The aim of the study was to describe nurses’ experiences of touch and especially touch when assisting older adult patients in hospital context. The interviewed nurses described 2 ways of assisting by touch: striving to be present and not being there. This study shows that touching and assisting by touch can constitute the core of the act of holistic caring in nursing, in which the most important content is a real encounter with the patient.
Clinical implications of hepatic structure and function evaluation based on vibration-controlled transient elastography and liver maximum function capacity test in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Blank Valentin , Petroff David , Boehlig Albrecht , Heinze Aileen , Karlas Thomas , Berg Thomas , Wiegand Johannes
Published: February 2022

Background and aims

Transient elastography [vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE)] noninvasively guides risk stratification in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis can be identified using the FAST-score. The liver maximum function test (LiMAx) could be helpful in more precise risk stratification. This pilot study evaluated VCTE, FAST-score, and LiMAx in NAFLD patients.

Methods

NAFLD patients prospectively underwent VCTE and LiMAx. The cutoffs for high fibrosis risk were 9.3/9.6 kPa (M/XL-probe) and 331 dB/m for steatosis. A FAST-score greater than 0.67 was used to identify patients with NASH and LiMAx values below 315 μg/kg/h for impaired liver function.

Results

In total, 57 NAFLD patients (BMI 32 ± 6 kg/m2; 60% diabetes) were included. High risk for fibrosis and steatosis was observed in 26/57 and 28/57 cases, respectively. Overall, 19/57 patients presented impaired liver function. However, 14/26 of patients with a high risk for fibrosis had impaired liver function compared to 5/31 of those without (P = 0.0026). Similarly, 12/18 patients at high risk for NASH had impaired liver function compared to 7/39 without (P < 0.001). The subgroup with diabetes had a liver stiffness a factor of 1.8 higher, FAST-score was 0.13 higher and LiMAx values were 66 μg/kg/h lower compared to nondiabetics.

Conclusion

There is a significant correlation between the functional liver capacity (LiMAx) and the structural liver assessment by VCTE. In cases with high liver stiffness or FAST-score, low LiMAx results may identify NAFLD patients at risk for disease progression and reduce the risk of false-positive categorization.
Neonatal lymphatic flow disorders: central lymphatic flow disorder and isolated chylothorax, diagnosis and treatment using novel lymphatic imaging and interventions technique
Authors: Rabinowitz Deborah , Dysart Kevin , Itkin Maxim
Published: February 2022

Purpose of review

Neonatal lymphatic disorders (NLDs) are conditions that are relatively rare and difficult to treat. The recent development of lymphatic imaging, such as Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MR Lymphangiography and Intranodal Lymphangiography has led to a new, better understanding of the anatomical substrate and pathophysiological mechanisms of the diseases. Consequently, this has allowed the development of new targeted therapeutic interventions as well as prognostication for this population with lymphatic flow disorders.

Recent findings

The underlying causes of all NLD is an obstruction or altered flow of the central lymphatic flow. Two types of NLD have been described: isolated neonatal chylothorax and central lymphatic flow disorder (CLFD). Isolated neonatal chylothorax can be treated successfully with oil-based contrast (lipiodol) embolization. CLFD secondary to obstruction of the thoraco-venous junction can be successfully treated with surgical thoracic duct-venous anastomosis. CLFD caused by elevated central pressure and/or thoracic duct dysplasia can be treated medically, including with new systemic therapies such as mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors.

New diagnostic and interventional tools have recently allowed for classification, prognostication, and targeted interventions for neonatal patients with lymphatic flow disorders. Further research will build on these discoveries.
Non–Firearm-related Homicides at the Medical University of South Carolina, 2013–2018
Authors: Sullivan Christopher , Presnell Susan Erin
Published: February 2022

After high-profile events involving firearms, gun violence often becomes the center stage of public discourse with national media attention, overshadowing less common causes of homicidal deaths, such as sharp force injury, blunt trauma, and asphyxia. A retrospective analysis of all cases referred for medicolegal autopsy to the Medical and Forensic Autopsy Division of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina from 2013 to 2018 documented 793 deaths where the manner was classified as homicide. Of these, 18% (144) of the deaths were caused by non–firearm-inflicted injuries. Nonfirearm homicides were further categorized by method; demographic data including decedent age, race, and sex; and other variables such as incident site, decedent relationship status to the alleged perpetrator, number of other homicide fatalities associated with a homicide event, and the presence of drugs and alcohol in the decedents. Data accrued in this review were compared with national statistics published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and to the overall Medical University of South Carolina firearm-related homicide decedent demographic statistics for this same period. Findings augment existing information available regarding non–gun-related homicides and may be valuable in contributing to the ongoing public and political debate regarding firearm and nonfirearm fatalities.
Frozen Fat Grafts Maintain Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression and Mediate Angiogenesis During Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Enrichment for Soft Tissue Augmentation
Authors: Lin Chih-Hsun , Tsai Chi-Han , Yang I-Chen , Ma Hsu
Published: February 2022

Background

Fresh fat grafts are commonly used in both esthetic and reconstructive surgeries, but the graft resorption rate varies. Cryopreservation of unused fat for later touch-up is one option to resolve this variation. In our previous studies, we found that fat cryopreservation may be a practical strategy for storing fat tissue. To explore the cryopreservation method, we evaluated the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in human frozen fat grafts.

Methods

The concentration of VEGF in human frozen fat grafts subjected to different preservation times was determined using Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The angiogenic effect of frozen fat grafts was evaluated using a chorioallantoic membrane assay. Furthermore, the impact of adding human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) or different concentrations of avastin (bevacizumab) to frozen fat grafts on angiogenesis was assessed. The viability of frozen fat grafts with or without hADSCs was evaluated using a nude mouse implantation study. Explanted fat tissues were examined on days 1, 4, 7, 14, 28, and 90, and morphological and histological analyses, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (VEGF concentration) were carried out.

Results

No significant difference in VEGF concentration between fresh and frozen fat was observed with respect to preservation duration. In the chorioallantoic membrane assay, frozen fat grafts with hADSCs displayed significantly enhanced angiogenesis. Avastin was found to decrease angiogenesis in frozen fat grafts. However, in the nude mouse implantation study, frozen fat grafts displayed VEGF maintenance, with the highest concentration observed on day 7. Adding hADSCs to the graft further increased the VEGF concentration and CD31 expression. Fat graft viability was found to be higher in the frozen fat grafts containing hADSCs than in grafts without hADSCs.

Conclusions

Human fat grafts can maintain VEGF expression under frozen conditions for at least 12 months. The addition of hADSCs to the frozen fat graft could further enhance angiogenesis, VEGF expression, and fat cell viability.