bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are infants exposed to antimicrobials during the first 3 months of life at increased risk of recurrent use? An explorative data-linkage study
Authors: Thaulow Christian Magnus , Harthug Stig , Nilsen Roy Miodini , Eriksen Beate Horsberg , Wathne Jannicke Slettli , Berild Dag , Blix Hege Salvesen
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To investigate whether infants exposed to antimicrobials in hospital during the first 3 months of life had an increased risk of ambulatory antimicrobial use during the following year compared with infants not exposed to antimicrobials during the first 3 months of life.

Methods

Norwegian cohort study of infants less than 3 months consisting of one group exposed to antimicrobials recruited during hospitalization and one group not exposed to antimicrobials. Ten unexposed infants were matched with one exposed infant according to county of residence, birth year and month, and sex. The Norwegian Prescription Database was applied to register antimicrobial use from the month after discharge and 1 year onward. We defined comorbidity based on antimicrobials prescribed as reimbursable prescriptions due to underlying diseases.

Results

Of 95 infants exposed to antimicrobials during the first 3 months of life, 23% had recurrent use compared with 14% use in 950 unexposed infants [relative risk (RR) = 1.7 (95% CI = 1.1–2.5) and comorbidity-adjusted RR = 1.4 (95% CI = 0.9–2.2)]. The recurrence use rate in exposed term infants (≥37 weeks, n = 70) was 27% compared with 12% in their unexposed matches [RR 2.3 = (95% CI = 1.4–3.7) and comorbidity-adjusted RR = 1.9 (95% CI = 1.2–3.2). Of 25 exposed preterm infants, 3 (12%) had recurrent use. The total antimicrobial prescription rate was 674/1000 in the exposed group and 244/1000 in the unexposed group [incidence rate ratio = 2.8 (95% CI = 1.6–4.9)].

Conclusions

Infants exposed to antimicrobials during the first 3 months of life had an increased risk of recurrent use during the following year. This increased risk also appeared in term infants without infection-related comorbidity.
Genetic Origins of the TwoCanis lupus familiaris(Dog) Freight Dog Populations
Authors: Ali Muhammad Basil , Dreger Dayna L , Buckley Reuben M , Mansoor Shahid , Khan Qaiser M , Ostrander Elaine A
Published: January 2022

Despite periodic drops in popularity, Arctic sled dogs continue to play a vital role in northern societies, providing both freight transit and recreational race activities. In this study, we selected the Mackenzie River Husky, a freight dog of complex history, and the Chinook, an American Kennel Club recognized freight dog breed whose heritage reportedly overlaps that of the MKRH, for detailed population analysis. We tested each to determine their component breeds and used admixture analysis to ascertain their population structure. We utilized haplotype analysis to identify genomic regions shared between each population and their founding breeds. Our data show that the Alaskan Malamutes and modern Greenland sled dog contributed to both populations, but there are also unexpected contributions from the German Shepherd dog and Collie. We used haplotype analysis to identify genomic regions nearing fixation in population type and identify provocative genes in each region. Finally, in response to recent reports regarding the importance of dietary lipid genes in Arctic dogs, we analyzed 8 such genes in a targeted analysis observing signatures of selection in both populations at the MLXIPL gene loci. These data highlight the genetic routes that breeds of similar function have taken toward their occupation as successful sled dogs.
Facilitating #dialogue or #buildingsupport?
Authors: Banks Isabella
Published: January 2022

This systematic study of the International Criminal Court (ICC)’s stakeholder communication on Twitter brings attention to the largely unexamined phenomenon of the ICC’s active presence on social media. It answers the following research question: ‘To what extent has the ICC used Twitter to facilitate dialogue and exchange with its stakeholders as opposed to one-way information provision?’ Literary research and the descriptive analysis of 1,712 tweets and retweets published by @IntlCrimCourt between November 2017 and June 2019 reveal that the ICC primarily used Twitter to provide information and build support among its most powerful stakeholders. Notwithstanding its stated commitment to two-way stakeholder communication, the ICC made little to no effort to solicit feedback or generate dialogue on Twitter. These findings reveal the opportunities and limitations of Twitter as a mechanism to communicate with stakeholders and highlight the difficult position the ICC finds itself in as an international judicial institution dependent on state support.
Data streams classification using deep learning under different speeds and drifts
Authors: Lara-Benítez Pedro , Carranza-García Manuel , Gutiérrez-Avilés David , Riquelme José C
Published: January 2022

Processing data streams arriving at high speed requires the development of models that can provide fast and accurate predictions. Although deep neural networks are the state-of-the-art for many machine learning tasks, their performance in real-time data streaming scenarios is a research area that has not yet been fully addressed. Nevertheless, much effort has been put into the adaption of complex deep learning (DL) models to streaming tasks by reducing the processing time. The design of the asynchronous dual-pipeline DL framework allows making predictions of incoming instances and updating the model simultaneously, using two separate layers. The aim of this work is to assess the performance of different types of DL architectures for data streaming classification using this framework. We evaluate models such as multi-layer perceptrons, recurrent, convolutional and temporal convolutional neural networks over several time series datasets that are simulated as streams at different speeds. In addition, we evaluate how the different architectures react to concept drifts typically found in evolving data streams. The obtained results indicate that convolutional architectures achieve a higher performance in terms of accuracy and efficiency, but are also the most sensitive to concept drifts.
Enabling safe passage: predicting river crossing hotspots for a threatened boreal ungulate susceptible to drowning
Authors: Thomas Julie P , Larter Nicholas C , Jung Thomas S
Published: January 2022

Many mammals cross large rivers to access seasonal habitats, yet river crossing behavior is poorly acknowledged or understood. Crossing large rivers is inherently risky, with vessel traffic and flooding events increasing the risk of drowning. We investigated river crossing behavior by threatened bison (Bison bison) in the boreal forest, using data from 11 GPS-collared animals to identify when and where they cross a major river. We used kernel densities of GPS locations to identify crossing hotspots, and developed resource selection function (RSF) models that used habitat characteristics to explain crossing behavior based on a priori hypotheses. We then predicted high-probability crossing areas along a 400-km stretch of river using the best-supported RSF model. Bison regularly crossed the river (x¯ = 8.6 crossings/100 days), particularly during summer months. Model selection results suggested that bison may have chosen river crossing areas that maximized access to forage. Bison preferred to cross the river near islands and areas with high seismic line densities, both of which were likely preferred summer foraging habitats. In addition, islands may have been used as temporary stopovers while crossing the river, or for relief from biting insects. Bison crossed the river where the channel was relatively narrow (x¯ = 400 ± 213 m [SD]) and chose days when river discharge was low, likely to reduce the risk of drowning, exhaustion, or hypothermia. While based on a small sample of collared bison, predictions about high-probability crossing areas may be used to inform mitigation measures aimed at reducing bison drowning caused by vessel traffic, which is expected to increase as resource development expands in the region. Our approach may be informative for identifying river crossing hotspots for other mammals that cross major rivers.
A rare case of a herniated acute appendicitis
Authors: Ujjal Suresh , Kroijer Rasmus
Published: January 2022

Acute appendicitis (AA) is the most common cause of acute abdomen worldwide and untreated it can lead to abscess formation, purulent or faeculent peritonitis, sepsis and death. This paper presents a rare case of an AA herniated in a retro-psoas muscle defect, which has not previously been reported in the literature. Our patient’s diagnosis and management was delayed due to the unusual presentation. This case emphasizes the importance to utilize AA scoring algorithms to aid decision-making as they have shown to reduce admissions, optimize the use of diagnostic imaging and reduce negative surgical explorations.
Modelling the Omicron wave in France in early 2022: Balancing herd immunity with protecting the most vulnerable
Authors: Davido Benjamin , Dumas Laurent , Rottman Martin
Published: January 2022

The Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern is driving the COVID pandemic at a pace never seen before. When the threat of overwhelming healthcare systems balances the hope of achieving herd immunity, providing booster shots and vaccinating fragile individuals can still be attempted in France to prevent death and hospitalizations.
Augustine’s Mature Understanding of John 5:19 and the Doctrine of Inseparable Operations
Authors: Beckwith Carl L
Published: January 2022

Augustine preached on John 5:19 in several anti-Arian works during the second decade of the fifth century. A close examination of his biblical text and trinitarian vocabulary provides sufficient clues to order these works chronologically and to observe the development of his reading of John 5:19. Augustine’s encounter with Latin Homoian arguments in the anonymous Sermo Arrianorum produces his mature understanding of John 5:19. He uses these insights to read other difficult texts on the Son and Holy Spirit in the Gospel of John and to express his mature understanding of the doctrine of inseparable operations.
Intramolecular carbon isotope signals reflect metabolite allocation in plants
Authors: Wieloch Thomas , Sharkey Thomas David , Werner Roland Anton , Schleucher Jürgen
Published: January 2022

Stable isotopes at natural abundance are key tools to study physiological processes occurring outside the temporal scope of manipulation and monitoring experiments. Whole-molecule carbon isotope ratios (13C/12C) enable assessments of plant carbon uptake yet conceal information about carbon allocation. Here, we identify an intramolecular 13C/12C signal at tree-ring glucose C-5 and C-6 and develop experimentally testable theories on its origin. More specifically, we assess the potential of processes within C3 metabolism for signal introduction based (inter alia) on constraints on signal propagation posed by metabolic networks. We propose that the intramolecular signal reports carbon allocation into major metabolic pathways in actively photosynthesizing leaf cells including the anaplerotic, shikimate, and non-mevalonate pathway. We support our theoretical framework by linking it to previously reported whole-molecule 13C/12C increases in cellulose of ozone-treated Betula pendula and a highly significant relationship between the intramolecular signal and tropospheric ozone concentration. Our theory postulates a pronounced preference for leaf cytosolic triose-phosphate isomerase to catalyse the forward reaction in vivo (dihydroxyacetone phosphate to glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate). In conclusion, intramolecular 13C/12C analysis resolves information about carbon uptake and allocation enabling more comprehensive assessments of carbon metabolism than whole-molecule 13C/12C analysis.
The far-infrared/radio correlation for a sample of strongly lensed dusty star-forming galaxies detected by Herschel
Authors: Giulietti M , Massardi M , Lapi A , Bonato M , Enia A F M , Negrello M , D’Amato Q , Behiri M , De Zotti G
Published: January 2022

We investigate the radio-far infrared (FIR) correlation for a sample of 28 bright high-redshift (1 ≲ z ≲ 4) star-forming galaxies selected in the FIR from the Herschel-ATLAS fields as candidates to be strongly gravitationally lensed. The radio information comes either from high sensitivity dedicated ATCA observations at 2.1 GHz or from cross-matches with the FIRST survey at 1.4 GHz. By taking advantage of source brightness possibly enhanced by lensing magnification, we identify a weak evolution with redshift out to z ≲ 4 of the FIR-to-radio luminosity ratio qFIR. We also find that the qFIR parameter as a function of the radio power $L_{1.4\, \rm GHz}$ displays a clear decreasing trend, similarly to what is observed for optically/radio selected lensed quasars found in literature, yet covering a complementary region in the $q_{\rm FIR}-L_{1.4\, \rm GHz}$ diagram. We interpret such a behavior in the framework of an in-situ galaxy formation scenario, as a result of the transition from an early dust-obscured star-forming phase (mainly pinpointed by our FIR selection) to a late radio-loud quasar phase (preferentially sampled by the optical/radio selection).
The role of plasma instabilities in relativistic radiation-mediated shocks: stability analysis and particle-in-cell simulations
Authors: Vanthieghem A , Mahlmann J F , Levinson A , Philippov A , Nakar E , Fiuza F
Published: January 2022

Relativistic radiation-mediated shocks are likely formed in prodigious cosmic explosions. The structure and emission of such shocks are regulated by copious production of electron–positron pairs inside the shock-transition layer. It has been pointed out recently that substantial abundance of positrons inside the shock leads to a velocity separation of the different plasma constituents, which is expected to induce a rapid growth of plasma instabilities. In this paper, we study the hierarchy of plasma microinstabilities growing in an electron-ion plasma loaded with pairs and subject to a radiation force. Linear stability analysis indicates that such a system is unstable to the growth of various plasma modes which ultimately become dominated by a current filamentation instability driven by the relative drift between the ions and the pairs. These results are validated by particle-in-cell simulations that further probe the non-linear regime of the instabilities, and the pair-ion coupling in the microturbulent electromagnetic field. Based on this analysis, we derive a reduced-transport equation for the particles via pitch-angle scattering in the microturbulence and demonstrate that it can couple the different species and lead to non-adiabatic compression via a Joule-like heating. The heating of the pairs and, conceivably, the formation of non-thermal distributions, arising from the microturbulence, can affect the observed shock-breakout signal in ways unaccounted for by current single-fluid models.
A dedicated Lunar Trojan Asteroid Survey with small ground-based telescopes
Authors: Gregg Cole R , Wiegert Paul A
Published: January 2022

A co-orbital asteroid shares the orbit of a secondary body about its primary. Though more commonly encountered as an asteroid that shares a planet’s orbit around the Sun, a co-orbital asteroid could similarly share the orbit of the Moon around the Earth. Though such asteroids would be close to the Earth and so relatively bright, their rapid on-sky motion is such that they might escape detection by near-Earth asteroid surveys. The discovery of such lunar co-orbital asteroids (which we will refer to generically here as Lunar Trojans or LTs) would advance our understanding of inner Solar System orbital dynamics and would provide research opportunities for the growing number of missions slated for cislunar space. No LT asteroids are currently known and the last published survey dedicated to these asteroids was conducted nearly 40 yr ago. It has been theoretically determined that orbits near the Earth–Moon L4 and L5 points could survive for several million years. Although this time-scale is shorter than the lifetime of the Solar System, it introduces the possibility of the temporary capture of asteroids into the LT state. This project aims to observationally evaluate the population of LTs with modern techniques. Using four small ground-based telescopes from the iTelescope network, 8340 deg2 on the sky were surveyed down to 15th mag. Though one fast-moving near-Earth object was detected, no LTs were observed. We deduce an upper limit of ≲5 LTs with H < 26.
Dark energy with oscillatory tracking potential: observational constraints and perturbative effects
Authors: Joseph Albin , Saha Rajib
Published: January 2022

The cosmological models exhibiting tracker properties have great significance in the context of dark energy as they can reach the present value of dark energy density from a wide range of initial conditions, thereby alleviating both the fine-tuning and the cosmic coincidence problem. The α-attractors, which are originally discussed in the context of inflation, can exhibit the properties of dark energy as they can behave like cosmological trackers at early times and show the late-time behaviour of a cosmological constant. In this paper, we study the oscillatory tracker model (OTM), which belongs to the family of α-attractor dark energy models. Using the current observational data sets like cosmic microwave background (CMB), baryon acoustic oscillation, and type 1a supernova data (Pantheon compilation), we constrain the parameters of the model and estimate both the mean and best-fitting values. Although the OTM contains a larger set of parameters than the usual lambda cold dark matter (LCDM) model, the common set of parameters of both agree within $1\, \sigma$ error limits. Our observations using both high redshift and low redshift data support Hubble parameter value H0 = 67.4  Km s−1 Mpc−1. We study the effect of the OTM on the CMB temperature and polarization power spectra, matter power spectrum and fσ8. Our analysis of the CMB power spectrum and matter power spectrum suggests that the oscillatory tracker dark energy model has noticeable differences from usual LCDM predictions. Yet, in most cases, the agreement is very close.
Dysgu: efficient structural variant calling using short or long reads
Authors: Cleal Kez , Baird Duncan M
Published: January 2022

Structural variation (SV) plays a fundamental role in genome evolution and can underlie inherited or acquired diseases such as cancer. Long-read sequencing technologies have led to improvements in the characterization of structural variants (SVs), although paired-end sequencing offers better scalability. Here, we present dysgu, which calls SVs or indels using paired-end or long reads. Dysgu detects signals from alignment gaps, discordant and supplementary mappings, and generates consensus contigs, before classifying events using machine learning. Additional SVs are identified by remapping of anomalous sequences. Dysgu outperforms existing state-of-the-art tools using paired-end or long-reads, offering high sensitivity and precision whilst being among the fastest tools to run. We find that combining low coverage paired-end and long-reads is competitive in terms of performance with long-reads at higher coverage values.
Exploring the importance of work outcomes in gynaecological patients
Authors: Sparks R , Ahluwalia S , Aslam I , Austin G , Fitzgerald R , Gupta S , Inyang D , Khan A , Opoka V , Wardere J , Madan I , Naleem S , Parsons V
Published: January 2022

Background

There has been increasing evidence that physicians in gynaecology are not routinely enquiring about work during consultations.

Aims

To explore the effect gynaecological conditions can have on work functioning, the importance of work outcomes among patients and whether work considerations are discussed during clinical consultations.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was administered to employed patients attending a gynaecological clinic at Guy’s Hospital. The survey assessed four areas: demographics, gynaecological condition (including self-assessed severity), work status and perceived impact of the condition on work functioning and job satisfaction. Simple descriptive analysis and statistical techniques were used to interpret the data.

Results

One hundred and six participants participated (mean age: 37.49 ± 9.09). About 95% found it important to be able to work whilst receiving treatment and 82% of patients had reported at least a slight impact on their working ability due to their condition. Of the 31 patients for whom it was their first appointment, 77% said it would be useful to discuss the possible impacts their gynaecological condition could have on their work. About 66% (19/29) of the participants attending a follow-up appointment reported that their doctor had not discussed their work with them.

Conclusions

The symptoms of gynaecological conditions can impact patients’ ability to work. There is a lack of useful discussion from doctors about the perceived impact gynaecological conditions can have on a patient’s ability to work, despite patients finding it important to be able to remain or return to work.
On the different role of alarm substances and fish kairomones in diapause induction in a freshwater planktonic crustacean
Authors: Więski Kazimierz , Ślusarczyk Mirosław
Published: January 2022

Many aquatic organisms anticipate predation risk via infochemical detection. In a laboratory experiment, we investigated the expression of life-history responses in planktonic Daphnia magna under long-lasting exposure to various concentrations of fish kairomones (FK) and alarm substances of Daphnia (AS).

Daphnia were exposed to one of six concentrations of AS (0, 0.0005, 0.005, 0.05, 0.5, 5 homogenized D. magna/L) mixed with the highest concentration of FK, or to one of six concentrations of FK (diluted fish feces of 0, 0.001, 0.002, 0.01, 0.02, 0.1 fish/L) accompanied by the highest concentration of AS. FK alone at the highest concentration were sufficient to induce diapause in 21% of Daphnia, while AS alone at the highest concentration did not trigger diapause. Mixed at the highest concentrations, both cues induced diapause in 94% of Daphnia, whereas in the control treatment free of infochemicals no ephippial individuals occurred. No significant size or fecundity changes accompanied the diapause response.

The graded type of diapause response observed across a wide concentration AS concentrations suggests that Daphnia use AS concentration as a proxy for the level of non-specific predation risk. In contrast, the abrupt change of diapause response across a narrow concentration of FK suggests that they were more critical to identify predator origin than level of risk.
γ-Aminobutyric acid plays a key role in plant acclimation to a combination of high light and heat stress
Authors: Balfagón Damián , Gómez-Cadenas Aurelio , Rambla José L , Granell Antonio , de Ollas Carlos , Bassham Diane C , Mittler Ron , Zandalinas Sara I
Published: January 2022

Plants are frequently subjected to different combinations of abiotic stresses, such as high light (HL) intensity, and elevated temperatures. These environmental conditions pose a threat to agriculture production, affecting photosynthesis, and decreasing yield. Metabolic responses of plants, such as alterations in carbohydrates and amino acid fluxes, play a key role in the successful acclimation of plants to different abiotic stresses, directing resources toward stress responses, and suppressing growth. Here we show that the primary metabolic response of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) plants to HL or heat stress (HS) is different from that of plants subjected to a combination of HL and HS (HL+HS). We further demonstrate that the combined stress results in a unique metabolic response that includes increased accumulation of sugars and amino acids coupled with decreased levels of metabolites participating in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Among the amino acids exclusively accumulated during HL+HS, we identified the nonproteinogenic amino acid γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Analysis of different mutants deficient in GABA biosynthesis (GLUTAMATE DESCARBOXYLASE 3 [gad3]) as well as mutants impaired in autophagy (autophagy-related proteins 5 and 9 [atg5 and atg9]), revealed that GABA plays a key role in the acclimation of plants to HL+HS, potentially by promoting autophagy. Taken together, our findings identify a role for GABA in regulating plant responses to combined stress.
The histone deacetylase 1/GSK3/SHAGGY-like kinase 2/BRASSINAZOLE-RESISTANT 1 module controls lateral root formation in rice
Authors: Hou Jiaqi , Zheng Xueke , Ren Ruifei , Shi Qipeng , Xiao Huangzhuo , Chen Zhenfei , Yue Mengxia , Wu Yequn , Hou Haoli , Li Lijia
Published: January 2022

Lateral roots (LRs) are a main component of the root system of rice (Oryza sativa) that increases root surface area, enabling efficient absorption of water and nutrients. However, the molecular mechanism regulating LR formation in rice remains largely unknown. Here, we report that histone deacetylase 1 (OsHDAC1) positively regulates LR formation in rice. Rice OsHDAC1 RNAi plants produced fewer LRs than wild-type plants, whereas plants overexpressing OsHDAC1 exhibited increased LR proliferation by promoting LR primordia formation. Brassinosteroid treatment increased the LR number, as did mutation of GSK3/SHAGGY-like kinase 2 (OsGSK2), whereas overexpression of OsGSK2 decreased the LR number. Importantly, OsHDAC1 could directly interact with and deacetylate OsGSK2, inhibiting its activity. OsGSK2 deacetylation attenuated the interaction between OsGSK2 and BRASSINAZOLE-RESISTANT 1 (OsBZR1), leading to accumulation of OsBZR1. The overexpression of OsBZR1 increased LR formation by regulating Auxin/IAA signaling genes. Taken together, the results indicate that OsHDAC1 regulates LR formation in rice by deactivating OsGSK2, thereby preventing degradation of OsBZR1, a positive regulator of LR primordia formation. Our findings suggest that OsHDAC1 is a breeding target in rice that can improve resource capture.
Disparities in the prevalence of clinical features between systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis and adult-onset Still’s disease
Authors: Ruscitti Piero , Natoli Valentina , Consolaro Alessandro , Caorsi Roberta , Rosina Silvia , Giancane Gabriella , Naddei Roberta , Di Cola Ilenia , Di Muzio Claudia , Berardicurti Onorina , Iacono Daniela , Pantano Ilenia , Rozza Gelsomina , Rossi Silvia , De Stefano Ludovico , Balduzzi Silvia , Vitale Antonio , Caso Francesco , Costa Luisa , Prete Marcella , Navarini Luca , Iagnocco Annamaria , Atzeni Fabiola , Guggino Giuliana , Perosa Federico , Cantarini Luca , Frediani Bruno , Montecucco Carlomaurizio , Ciccia Francesco , Cipriani Paola , Gattorno Marco , Giacomelli Roberto , Ravelli Angelo
Published: January 2022

Objective

To compare clinical features and treatments of patients with systemic JIA (sIJA) and adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD).

Methods

The clinical charts of consecutive patients with sJIA by International League of Association of Rheumatology criteria or AOSD by Yamaguchi criteria were reviewed. Patients were seen at a large paediatric rheumatology referral centre or at 10 adult rheumatology academic centres. Data collected included clinical manifestations, inflammation biomarkers, systemic score, macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), parenchymal lung disease, disease course, disability, death and medications administered.

Results

A total of 166 patients (median age at diagnosis 5 years) with sJIA and 194 patients with AOSD (median age at diagnosis 41 years) were included. The frequency of fever, rash, arthralgia, abdominal pain, MAS, parenchymal lung disease and increased acute phase reactants and ferritin were comparable between the two cohorts. Patients with sJIA had a higher prevalence of arthritis, whereas patients with AOSD had experienced leucocytosis and extra-articular organ involvement more frequently. Patients with AOSD were given more commonly low-dose corticosteroids, whereas biologic DMARDs were administered first-line more frequently in patients with sJIA.

Conclusion

We found remarkable disparities in the prevalence of clinical manifestations between the two illnesses, which may partly depend on their classification by different criteria.
Autoantibody profiles associated with morbidity and mortality in scleroderma renal crisis
Authors: Tsuji Hideaki , Kuramoto Nobuo , Sasai Tsuneo , Shirakashi Mirei , Onizawa Hideo , Kitagori Koji  , Akizuki Shuji , Nakashima Ran , Watanabe Ryu , Onishi Akira , Murakami Kosaku , Yoshifuji Hajime , Tanaka Masao , Hashimoto Motomu , Ohmura Koichiro , Morinobu Akio
Published: January 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate association of autoantibodies with scleroderma renal crisis (SRC) among Japanese patients.

Methods

The clinical characteristics and mortality of 330 patients with sytemic screlosis (SSc) at Kyoto University Hospital were retrospectively analysed, focusing on possible association with anti-topoisomerase I (anti-topo I), anti-centromere (ACA), anti-RNA polymerase III (RNAPIII) and/or anti-U1-RNP. Logistic regression analyses were performed to reveal any association of these autoantibodies with the development and mortality of SRC.

Results

SRC was observed in 24 out of 330 SSc patients, including patients with anti-topo I (n = 12/24, 50%), anti-RNAPIII (n = 7/24, 29%), anti-U1-RNP (n = 5/24, 21%) and ACA (n = 3/24, 13%). Anti-U1-RNP [odds ratio (95% CI), 3.63 (1.11, 10.2)], anti-topo I [3.22 (1.37, 7.57)] and anti-RNAPIII (3.29 [1.16, 8.70]) were associated with the development of SRC. Furthermore, anti-topo I [6.00 (1.11, 41.1)] was associated with 1-year mortality of SRC. The 1-year survival rate after the onset of SRC among all patients and among those positive for anti-topo I was 54% and 33%, respectively. In contrast, the survival rate in patients negative for anti-topo I was 75%, of which the survival rate of patients positive for anti-RNAPIII and ACA was 83% and 100%, respectively.

Conclusion

Specific SSc-related autoantibodies were associated with the morbidity and mortality of SRC.
Social Consequences of Homeownership: Evidence from the Home Ownership Scheme in Hong Kong
Authors: Miao Jia , Wu Xiaogang
Published: January 2022

Homeownership is expected to provide a wide range of social benefits. However, the empirical evidence for causation is weak, and knowledge beyond Western countries is even more limited. This article investigates how homeownership affects life satisfaction and subjective class identification in Hong Kong. The Home Ownership Scheme, a large-scale subsidized homeownership program based on a random draw, represents a quasi-experimental setting to identify the causal impact of homeownership. Based on the analyses of data from four waves of the Hong Kong Panel Study of Social Dynamics (HKPSSD) and instrumental variable estimation, we show that homeownership significantly improves life satisfaction among Hong Kong adults, and that those who own a home deem themselves as belonging to a higher social class. This study contributes to the understanding of homeownership effects by providing causal evidence from a Chinese society and sheds light on the effectiveness of housing policies that aim to promote homeownership in Hong Kong and beyond.
Race-Conscious Racism: Alibis for Racial Harm in the Classroom
Authors: Ray Ranita
Published: January 2022

I draw on three years of participant observations in one socio-economically marginalized public elementary and one middle school to document how teachers strategically mobilize the discursive landscape of race consciousness to 1) position themselves as racially progressive while perpetuating racial harm; 2) pathologize racially marginalized students, their families, and communities; and 3) engage in racial harassment. Drawing on these findings and adding to a body of work on race-conscious racial ideologies, I articulate some basic contours of race consciousness as an emerging racial ideology within educational institutions in an era of diversity: an increased interest in, and proliferation of, race discourse; the use of progressive language around race and racial inequality that involves defining racism as inscrutable and implicit bias as unavoidable; and racial education and acknowledgement of privilege as one of the dominant pathways to achieving racial justice. Race-conscious racism, thus, re-inscribes white supremacy and Black and brown racial suffering by obscuring its own nature as a form of racism. It allows white people to treat race-talk as racial justice, and therefore inherently virtuous. It is mobilized by those with racial power to pathologize communities of color and justify racial harm while simultaneously positioning themselves as both morally superior and anti-racist.
Cell Death and the p53 Enigma During Mammalian Embryonic Development
Authors: Raj Sonam , Jaiswal Sushil K , DePamphilis Melvin L
Published: January 2022

Twelve forms of programmed cell death (PCD) have been described in mammalian cells, but which of them occurs during embryonic development and the role played by the p53 transcription factor and tumor suppressor remains enigmatic. Although p53 is not required for mouse embryonic development, some studies conclude that PCD in pluripotent embryonic stem cells from mice (mESCs) or humans (hESCs) is p53-dependent whereas others conclude that it is not. Given the importance of pluripotent stem cells as models of embryonic development and their applications in regenerative medicine, resolving this enigma is essential. This review reconciles contradictory results based on the facts that p53 cannot induce lethality in mice until gastrulation and that experimental conditions could account for differences in results with ESCs. Consequently, activation of the G2-checkpoint in mouse ESCs is p53-independent and generally, if not always, results in noncanonical apoptosis. Once initiated, PCD occurs at equivalent rates and to equivalent extents regardless of the presence or absence of p53. However, depending on experimental conditions, p53 can accelerate initiation of PCD in ESCs and late-stage blastocysts. In contrast, DNA damage following differentiation of ESCs in vitro or formation of embryonic fibroblasts in vivo induces p53-dependent cell cycle arrest and senescence.
Knowledge-Driven Approaches to Create the MTox700+ Metabolite Panel for Predicting Toxicity
Authors: Sostare Elena , Lawson Thomas N , Saunders Lucy R , Colbourne John K , Weber Ralf J M , Sobanski Tomasz , Viant Mark R
Published: January 2022

Endogenous metabolite levels describe the molecular phenotype that is most downstream from chemical exposure. Consequently, quantitative changes in metabolite levels have the potential to predict mode-of-action and adversity, with regulatory toxicology predicated on the latter. However, toxicity-related metabolic biomarker resources remain highly fragmented and incomplete. Although development of the S1500+ gene biomarker panel has accelerated the application of transcriptomics to toxicology, a similar initiative for metabolic biomarkers is lacking. Our aim was to define a publicly available metabolic biomarker panel, equivalent to S1500+, capable of predicting pathway perturbations and/or adverse outcomes. We conducted a systematic review of multiple toxicological resources, yielding 189 proposed metabolic biomarkers from existing assays (BASF, Bowes-44, and Tox21), 342 biomarkers from databases (Adverse Outcome Pathway Wiki, Comparative Toxicogenomics Database, QIAGEN Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, and Toxin and Toxin-Target Database), and 435 biomarkers from the literature. Evidence mapping across all 8 resources generated a panel of 722 metabolic biomarkers for toxicology (MTox700+), of which 462 (64%) are associated with molecular pathways and 575 (80%) with adverse outcomes. Comparing MTox700+ and S1500+ revealed that 418 (58%) metabolic biomarkers associate with pathways shared across both panels, with further metabolites mapping to unique pathways. Metabolite reference standards are commercially available for 646 (90%) of the panel metabolites, and assays exist for 578 (80%) of these biomarkers. This study has generated a publicly available metabolic biomarker panel for toxicology, which through its future laboratory deployment, is intended to help build foundational knowledge to support the generation of molecular mechanistic data for chemical hazard assessment.
Distributional patterns of Vetigastropoda (Mollusca) all over the world: a track analysis
Authors: Aguilar-Estrada Luis Gabriel , Morrone Juan J
Published: January 2022

The distributional patterns of the species of the mollusc subclass Vetigastropoda were analysed using the panbiogeographical method of track analysis. We analysed distributional data of 434 species and 72 genera of the world obtained from specialized literature and records in 12 malacological collections. We constructed the individual tracks for the species analysed and superimposed them, applying a parsimony analysis of endemicity with progressive character elimination. We identified 26 generalized tracks, extending in the Pacific Ocean (14), Indian Ocean (six), Atlantic Ocean (four), Mediterranean Sea (one) and Atlantic–Pacific Oceans (one). The generalized tracks show the complex relationships of the mollusc biota, representing geographical and phylogenetic boundaries of taxa with diverse geographical affinities. Five panbiogeographical nodes were identified by the intersection of two or more generalized tracks. Our analysis offers an approximation for understanding the distributional patterns of vetigastropod species worldwide from the perspective of evolutionary or historical biogeography. The results obtained for the Vetigastropoda coincide completely or in part with those previously presented for other taxa. The generalized tracks support hypotheses of primary biogeographical homology that might be corroborated by evidence from other different, phylogenetically unrelated taxa.
Adaptation to graviportality in Rhinocerotoidea? An investigation through the long bone shape variation in their hindlimb
Authors: Mallet Christophe , Billet Guillaume , Cornette Raphaël , Alexandra Houssaye And
Published: January 2022

Weight support is a strong functional constraint modelling limb bones in heavy quadrupeds. However, the complex relations between bone shape, mass, size and body proportions have been poorly explored. Rhinocerotoidea is one of the groups showing the highest body mass reached by terrestrial mammals through time. Here, we explore the evolutionary variation of shape in hindlimb stylopod and zeugopod bones and its relationship with mass, size and gracility in this superfamily. Our results show that bones undergo a general increase in robustness towards high masses, associated with reinforcements of the main muscle insertions. The shape of the femur, carrying a marked phylogenetic signal, varies conjointly with mass, size and gracility, whereas that of the tibia appears related to gracility and mass only. The shape of the fibula does not vary according to that of the tibia. Moreover, congruent variation of shape between the distal part of the femur and the complete tibia underlines the potentially strong covariation of the elements constituting the knee joint. These results, coupled with those previously obtained from forelimb study, allow a better comprehension of the relationship between bone shape and mass among Rhinocerotoidea, and a refining of the concept of ‘graviportality’ in this superfamily.
Taking the Temperature of Distance Learners: Does University Climate Influence Perceptions of Belonging in a Distance Education Environment?
Authors: Sokolowich Janelle R. , Ferguson Patricia E. , Hendricks Kathryn R.
Published: January 2022

AIM

This study aimed to gain an understanding of how students’ perceptions of belonging are impacted by their observations of the cultural/racial climate and diversity and inclusion in a distance education environment.

BACKGROUND

Studies have evaluated students’ perceptions of belonging and racial climate in a physical environment; there is a gap in understanding those perceptions within a distance education environment.

METHOD

In 2019, an online survey was administered to distance learning students from four academic programs at a national university that provides education services in all 50 states.

RESULTS

Results of a multiple linear regression analysis showed that students’ perceptions of university inclusion and diversity efforts, experiences related to language barriers, and advisors played a significant role in students’ perceptions of belonging, F(4, 205) = 52.96, p < .000, with an R
2 of .51.

CONCLUSION

Supporting an equitable distance learning environment should be a paramount objective for universities.
Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation: is it futile?
Authors: Kim Christin , Vigneshwar Mythili , Nicolato Patricia
Published: January 2022

Purpose of review

Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) is a treatment modality used to restore end-organ perfusion in the setting of refractory cardiac arrest in patients receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Despite advances in medicine, survival from cardiac arrest remains low with conventional CPR. The body of literature relating to ECPR is limited to retrospective studies and case series, with data that are inconsistent. Routine use of ECPR is not currently endorsed by the American Heart Association.

Recent findings

In several single-center retrospective studies, ECPR was associated with a higher level of return of spontaneous circulation and survival to hospital discharge, when compared with conventional CPR. However, data from larger population-based registry studies have not reproduced these findings. Implementation of ECPR is a complex endeavor that requires specialized, multidisciplinary expertise to be successful.

ECPR may be considered as an adjunct to CPR in cases of refractory cardiac arrest. The success of ECPR relies on specialized expertise, thoughtful patient selection, and timely initiation.
Behavioral and social interventions to promote optimal HIV prevention and care continua outcomes in the United States
Authors: Gamarel Kristi E. , King Wesley M. , Operario Don
Published: January 2022

Purpose of review

This review reports on trends in behavioral and social intervention research in the United States published over the past year (2020–2021) investigating HIV prevention and care outcomes, organized by the level of intervention focus – individual, dyadic, and organizational.

Recent findings

Researchers have continued to develop and evaluate behavioral and social interventions to reduce HIV acquisition risk and disease progression. With few exceptions, social and behavioral interventions have primarily focused on individuals as the unit of behavior change. Interventions operating at the individual-, dyadic-, and organizational-level have made strides to reduce HIV transmission risk and disease progressing by addressing mental health, substance use, stigma, peer and romantic relationships, and, to some extent, structural vulnerabilities.

Social and behavioral interventions continue to be critical in addressing HIV inequities in the United States. An important gap in the literature is the need for multilevel interventions designed and implemented within existing community-based organizations and local healthcare settings. We call on researchers to continue to attend to the structural, environmental, and economic vulnerabilities that shape HIV inequities in the development of multilevel approaches necessary to realize the full potential of existing and emerging HIV prevention and care strategies.
The innovative use of qualitative and mixed methods research to advance improvements along the HIV prevention and care continua
Authors: Arnold Emily A. , Campbell Chadwick K. , Koester Kimberly A.
Published: January 2022

Purpose of review

Despite enormous advances in prevention and care modalities, HIV continues to burden populations around the globe and is largely driven by social and behavioral processes. Mixed methods and qualitative research endeavors are best suited to uncovering and making sense of these dynamics, producing unique and actionable findings to alleviate the burden of HIV. We reviewed the global literature published on PubMed from 2020 to 2021 to identify studies that produced new insights into the social and behavioral dynamics that drive the HIV epidemic, focusing on mixed methods or purely qualitative study designs.

Recent findings

Mixed methods and qualitative studies have revealed important nuances in the social and behavioral dynamics associated with the HIV prevention and care continua, from preexposure prophylaxis uptake and adherence to engagement in HIV care and treatment, and have important implications for attaining goals for controlling the epidemic.

Articles reviewed contribute to advancing our understanding of complex social dynamics, structural level factors such as healthcare systems and policy, as well as the research endeavor itself and the need to diversify and sustain research to truly represent the perspectives of those most impacted by HIV. Numerous studies represent the unique ability of qualitative and mixed methods research to expand our understanding of and empathy for individuals living with and affected by HIV, offering new insights to help alleviate the burden of HIV.
Interevaluator and Intraevaluator Reliability of Chest Wall Mobility Assessment in Young Asthmatics Subjects
Authors: Garcia-Araujo Adriana S. , Trimer Renata , da Luz Goulart Cassia , Caruso Flavia R. , Ricci Paula A. , Borghi–Silva Audrey
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate interrater and intrarater reliability of chest wall mobility using cirtometry in individuals with asthma and controls.

Methods:

Twenty-six controlled individuals with asthma group (AG) and 12 healthy individuals control group (CG) underwent chest wall mobility assessed by cirtometry. The measurements were performed manually by 2 independent evaluators at 3 levels: axillary, xiphoid and abdominal using a tape, in 2 different days. For the analyses, the average of 3 measurements and the highest value were considered.

Results:

Interrater reliability in AG showed acceptable intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the axillary (0.76 and 0.75), good for the xiphoid (0.91 and 0.93), and abdominal level (0.91 and 0.91) for the average and highest value. In CG, ICC values were acceptable for the 3 levels: axillary (0.64 and 0.71), xiphoid (0.66 and 0.93), and abdominal level (0.61 and 0.91) also for the average and highest value. The analysis with the mean and the highest values found it acceptable for the axillary and good for the xiphoid and abdominal levels. Intrarater ICC was good for all levels in AG, axillary (0.86), xiphoid (0.93), and abdominal (0.96), for both evaluators. In CG, for evaluator 1, it was acceptable for the axillary and good for the xiphoid and abdominal levels. Regarding evaluator 2, it was good for the axillary and xiphoid and acceptable at the abdominal level.

Conclusion:

Cirtometry is a reliable tool to measure the chest wall mobility in controlled asthma individuals and in healthy individuals. The average of the 3 measurements or the highest value of the evaluations may be considered in clinical assessments. Axillary mobility was lower in the asthma group.