bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging Fungal Infections: New Species, New Names, and Antifungal Resistance
Authors: Wiederhold Nathan P
Published: September 2021

Background

Infections caused by fungi can be important causes of morbidity and mortality in certain patient populations, including those who are highly immunocompromised or critically ill. Invasive mycoses can be caused by well-known species, as well as emerging pathogens, including those that are resistant to clinically available antifungals.

Content

This review highlights emerging fungal infections, including newly described species, such as Candida auris, and those that having undergone taxonomic classification and were previously known by other names, including Blastomyces and Emergomyces species, members of the Rasamsonia argillacea species complex, Sporothrix brasiliensis, and Trichophyton indotinae. Antifungal resistance also is highlighted in several of these emerging species, as well as in the well-known opportunistic pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Finally, the increased recognition and importance of fungal co-infections with respiratory pathogens, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is discussed.

Both clinicians and clinical microbiology laboratories should remain vigilant regarding emerging fungal infections. These may be difficult both to diagnose and treat due to the lack of experience of clinicians and laboratory personnel with these organisms and the infections they may cause. Many of these fungal infections have been associated with poor clinical outcomes, either due to inappropriate therapy or the development of antifungal resistance.
Seasonal drivers of faecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in an African strepsirrhine primate, the thick-tailed greater galago (Otolemur crassicaudatus)
Authors: Long Channen , Tordiffe Adrian , Sauther Michelle , Cuozzo Frank , Millette James , Ganswindt Andre , Scheun Juan
Published: September 2021

As global non-human primate populations show dramatic declines due to climate change, land transformation and other anthropogenic stressors, it has become imperative to study physiological responses to environmental change in order to understand primate adaptability and enhance species conservation strategies. We examined the effects of seasonality on faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentrations of free-ranging male and female thick-tailed greater galagos (Otolemur crassicaudatus) in an Afromontane habitat. To do so, we established an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for monitoring fGCM concentrations in the species using a biological validation. Following this, faecal samples were collected each month over the course of a year from free-ranging males and females situated in the Soutpansberg Mountains, Limpopo, South Africa. Multivariate analyses revealed lactation period was a driver of fGCM levels, whereas sex and food availability mostly influenced seasonal fGCM concentrations in the total population. Thus far, the results of this study show that drivers of fGCM levels, an indication of increased adrenocortical activity, in O. crassicaudatus are numerous and complex within the natural environment. The species may be adapted to such conditions and an extreme change to any one component may result in elevated fGCM levels. This increases our understanding of strepsirrhine primate physiology and offers initial insights into species adaptability to a challenging environment.
Combined assessment of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance and angiography to predict the effect of revascularization in chronic coronary syndrome patients
Authors: Gavara Jose , Perez Nerea , Marcos-Garces Victor , Monmeneu Jose V , Lopez-Lereu Maria P , Rios-Navarro Cesar , De Dios Elena , Bonanad Clara , Cánoves Joaquim , Moratal David , Palau Patricia , Miñana Gema , Nunez Julio , Chorro Francisco Javier , Bodi Vicente
Published: September 2021

Aims

The role of revascularization in chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) and the value of ischaemia vs. anatomy to guide decision-making are in constant debate. We explored the potential of a combined assessment of ischaemic burden by vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and presence of multivessel disease by angiography to predict the effect of revascularization on all-cause mortality in CCS.

Methods and results

The study group comprised 1066 CCS patients submitted to vasodilator stress CMR pre-cardiac catheterization (mean age 66 ± 11 years, 69% male). Stress CMR-derived ischaemic burden (extensive if >5 ischaemic segments) and presence of multivessel disease in angiography (two- or three-vessel or left main stem disease) were computed. The influence of revascularization on all-cause mortality was explored and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals were obtained. During a median 7.51-year follow-up, 557 (52%) CMR-related revascularizations and 308 (29%) deaths were documented. Revascularization exerted a neutral effect on all-cause mortality in the whole study group [HR 0.94 (0.74–1.19), P = 0.6], in patients without multivessel disease [n = 598, 56%, HR 1.12 (0.77–1.62), P = 0.6], and in those with multivessel disease without extensive ischaemic burden [n = 181, 17%, HR 1.66 (0.91–3.04), P = 0.1]. However, compared to non-revascularized patients, revascularization significantly reduced all-cause mortality in patients with simultaneous multivessel disease and extensive ischaemic burden (n = 287, 27%): 3.77 vs. 7.37 deaths per 100 person-years, HR 0.60 (0.40–0.90), P = 0.01.

Conclusions

In patients with CCS submitted to catheterization, evidence of simultaneous extensive CMR-related ischaemic burden and multivessel disease identifies the subset in whom revascularization can reduce all-cause mortality.
Adverse employment histories, work stress and self-reported depression in the French CONSTANCES study
Authors: Hoven Hanno , Wahrendorf Morten , Goldberg Marcel , Zins Marie , Siegrist Johannes
Published: September 2021

Background

Job instability and disadvantaged work were shown to be associated with poor mental health, but few studies analyzed these conditions in a life course perspective. In this study, adverse employment histories are retrospectively assessed and linked to self-reported depression. Furthermore, indirect effects of later stressful psychosocial work in terms of effort-reward imbalance are investigated.

Methods

With data from the French CONSTANCES cohort study of 13 716 male and 12 767 female employees aged 45 and older, we identify adverse employment histories between age 25 and 45, focussing on job discontinuity, job instability and cumulative disadvantage. Direct effects of these conditions on self-reported depression over a period of up to 5 years are analyzed, using discrete-time logistic regression. Indirect effects of stressful work at baseline are examined.

Results

Moderately elevated odds ratios of self-reported depression are observed among participants with discontinued employment histories (number of unemployment periods; years out of work for men). Effort-reward imbalance at work is consistently related to elevated risk of self-reported depression and explains parts of the association between discontinuous employment and depression.

Conclusions

Applying a life course perspective to occupational health research extends current knowledge. Specifically, adverse employment histories in terms of recurrent job discontinuity are related to the risk of self-reported depression. This association is partly explained by exposure to a stressful psychosocial work environment. These results can instruct labour market policies and the development of targeted worksite interventions that address disadvantage throughout entire employment trajectories.
Met and unmet need for mental health care before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Knudsen Ann Kristin Skrindo , Skogen Jens Christoffer , Stene-Larsen Kim , Gustavson Kristin , Reneflot Anne
Published: September 2021

There is a concern that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic will generate large unmet needs for mental health care. Using data from an epidemiological psychiatric diagnostic interview survey (n = 2159) conducted on a probability sample from the general population, the proportions of met and unmet need for mental health care among individuals with and without mental disorders were compared before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results showed no statistical difference in met and unmet need for mental health care, but point estimates were suggestive of a higher unmet need for care among those with a current mental disorder after the lock-down period.
Patient experiences with general practitioners: psychometric performance of the generic PEQ-GP instrument among patients with chronic conditions
Authors: Bjertnæs Øyvind A , Iversen Hilde H , Valderas Jose M
Published: September 2021

Background

Most generic patient experience instruments have not been validated specifically for persons with chronic health problems, even though they are the dominant user of GPs/family physicians.

Objectives

To assess the psychometric properties of the generic Patient Experiences with GP Questionnaire (PEQ-GP) instrument (five scales: assessment of GP, coordination, patient enablement, accessibility, and practice) in persons with chronic conditions, and to develop a short version to maximize response rates and minimize respondent fatigue in future applications.

Methods

Secondary analysis of data from a national survey of patient experiences with general practitioners in 2018–2019 (response rate: 42.6%). The psychometric properties of PEQ-GP were assessed with exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha, supplemented with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and item response theory (IRT). A short version was constructed and evaluated based on item performance.

Results

Nine hundred and seventy persons reported a chronic condition(s), the most frequent being “musculoskeletal, arthritis, other back and joints” (n = 473, 48.8%). Factor analysis identified three scales with adequate psychometric results: GP (15 items; Cronbach’s alpha: 0.96), practice (3 items; Cronbach’s alpha: 0.87), and accessibility (2 items; Cronbach’s alpha: 0.77). Evaluation of item performance identified a 7-item short version, including a 5-item GP scale with scores with strong concordance with the 15-item scale (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient: 0.97, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The generic PEQ-GP exhibits adequate psychometric performance for persons with chronic conditions. Three empirically derived PEQ-GP scales cover evaluation of the GP, accessibility, and practice. The 7-item short form minimize respondent burden, but further validation work is warranted before large-scale use.
Apple endophyte community in relation to location, scion and rootstock genotypes and susceptibility to European canker
Authors: Olivieri Leone , Saville Robert J , Gange Alan C , Xu Xiangming
Published: September 2021

European apple canker, caused by Neonectria ditissima, is a severe disease of apple. Achieving effective control is difficult with the currently available pesticides. Specific apple endophytes associated with cultivars may partially contribute to the cultivar response to the pathogen and thus could be used for disease management. We sought to determine whether the overall endophyte community differed among cultivars differing in their susceptibility to N. ditissima and to identify specific microbial groups associated with the susceptibility. Using Illumina MiSeq meta-barcoding, we profiled apple tree endophytes in 16 scion–rootstock combinations at two locations and quantified the relative contribution of scion, rootstock and location to the observed variability in the endophyte communities. Endophyte diversity was primarily affected by the orchard location (accounting for 29.4% and 85.9% of the total variation in the PC1 for bacteria and fungi, respectively), followed by the scion genotype (24.3% and 19.5% of PC2), whereas rootstock effects were small (<3% of PC1 and PC2). There were significant differences in the endophyte community between canker-resistant and -susceptible cultivars. Several bacterial and fungal endophyte groups had different relative abundance between susceptible and resistant cultivars. These endophyte groups included putative pathogen antagonists as well as plant pathogens. Their possible ecological roles in the N. ditissima pathosystem are discussed.
Coordinated Gene Expression and Chromatin Regulation during Hydra Head Regeneration
Authors: Murad Rabi , Macias-Muñoz Aide , Wong Ashley , Ma Xinyi , Mortazavi Ali
Published: September 2021

The cnidarian model organism Hydra has long been studied for its remarkable ability to regenerate its head, which is controlled by a head organizer located near the hypostome. The canonical Wnt pathway plays a central role in head organizer function during regeneration and during bud formation, which is the asexual mode of reproduction in Hydra. However, it is unclear how shared the developmental programs of head organizer genesis are in budding and regeneration. Time-series analysis of gene expression changes during head regeneration and budding revealed a set of 298 differentially expressed genes during the 48-h head regeneration and 72-h budding time courses. In order to understand the regulatory elements controlling Hydra head regeneration, we first identified 27,137 open-chromatin elements that are open in one or more sections of the organism body or regenerating tissue. We used histone modification ChIP-seq to identify 9,998 candidate proximal promoter and 3,018 candidate enhancer-like regions respectively. We show that a subset of these regulatory elements is dynamically remodeled during head regeneration and identify a set of transcription factor motifs that are enriched in the enhancer regions activated during head regeneration. Our results show that Hydra displays complex gene regulatory structures of developmentally dynamic enhancers, which suggests that the evolution of complex developmental enhancers predates the split of cnidarians and bilaterians.
Gene Duplications Are At Least 50 Times Less Frequent than Gene Transfers in Prokaryotic Genomes
Authors: Tria Fernando D K , Martin William F
Published: September 2021

The contribution of gene duplications to the evolution of eukaryotic genomes is well studied. By contrast, studies of gene duplications in prokaryotes are scarce and generally limited to a handful of genes or careful analysis of a few prokaryotic lineages. Systematic broad-scale studies of prokaryotic genomes that sample available data are lacking, leaving gaps in our understanding of the contribution of gene duplications as a source of genetic novelty in the prokaryotic world. Here, we report conservative and robust estimates for the frequency of recent gene duplications within prokaryotic genomes relative to recent lateral gene transfer (LGT), as mechanisms to generate multiple copies of related sequences in the same genome. We obtain our estimates by focusing on evolutionarily recent events among 5,655 prokaryotic genomes, thereby avoiding vagaries of deep phylogenetic inference and confounding effects of ancient events and differential loss. We find that recent, genome-specific gene duplications are at least 50 times less frequent and probably 100 times less frequent than recent, genome-specific, gene acquisitions via LGT. The frequency of gene duplications varies across lineages and functional categories. The findings improve our understanding of genome evolution in prokaryotes and have far-reaching implications for evolutionary models that entail LGT to gene duplications ratio as a parameter.
A Minimally Morphologically Destructive Approach for DNA Retrieval and Whole-Genome Shotgun Sequencing of Pinned Historic Dipteran Vector Species
Authors: Korlević Petra , McAlister Erica , Mayho Matthew , Makunin Alex , Flicek Paul , Lawniczak Mara K N
Published: September 2021

Museum collections contain enormous quantities of insect specimens collected over the past century, covering a period of increased and varied insecticide usage. These historic collections are therefore incredibly valuable as genomic snapshots of organisms before, during, and after exposure to novel selective pressures. However, these samples come with their own challenges compared with present-day collections, as they are fragile and retrievable DNA is low yield and fragmented. In this article, we tested several DNA extraction procedures across pinned historic Diptera specimens from four disease vector genera: Anopheles, Aedes, Culex, and Glossina. We identify an approach that minimizes morphological damage while maximizing DNA retrieval for Illumina library preparation and sequencing that can accommodate the fragmented and low yield nature of historic DNA. We identify several key points in retrieving sufficient DNA while keeping morphological damage to a minimum: an initial rehydration step, a short incubation without agitation in a modified low salt Proteinase K buffer (referred to as “lysis buffer C” throughout), and critical point drying of samples post-extraction to prevent tissue collapse caused by air drying. The suggested method presented here provides a solid foundation for exploring the genomes and morphology of historic Diptera collections.
DNA Transposon Expansion is Associated with Genome Size Increase in Mudminnows
Authors: Lehmann Robert , Kovařík Aleš , Ocalewicz Konrad , Kirtiklis Lech , Zuccolo Andrea , Tegner Jesper N , Wanzenböck Josef , Bernatchez Louis , Lamatsch Dunja K , Symonová Radka
Published: September 2021

Genome sizes of eukaryotic organisms vary substantially, with whole-genome duplications (WGD) and transposable element expansion acting as main drivers for rapid genome size increase. The two North American mudminnows, Umbra limi and Umbra pygmaea, feature genomes about twice the size of their sister lineage Esocidae (e.g., pikes and pickerels). However, it is unknown whether all Umbra species share this genome expansion and which causal mechanisms drive this expansion. Using flow cytometry, we find that the genome of the European mudminnow is expanded similarly to both North American species, ranging between 4.5 and 5.4 pg per diploid nucleus. Observed blocks of interstitially located telomeric repeats in U. limi suggest frequent Robertsonian rearrangements in its history. Comparative analyses of transcriptome and genome assemblies show that the genome expansion in Umbra is driven by the expansion of DNA transposon and unclassified repeat sequences without WGD. Furthermore, we find a substantial ongoing expansion of repeat sequences in the Alaska blackfish Dallia pectoralis, the closest relative to the family Umbridae, which might mark the beginning of a similar genome expansion. Our study suggests that the genome expansion in mudminnows, driven mainly by transposon expansion, but not WGD, occurred before the separation into the American and European lineage.
Physical Activity Scaled to Preferred Walking Speed as a Predictor of Walking Difficulty in Older Adults: A 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Karavirta Laura , Leppä Heidi , Rantalainen Timo , Eronen Johanna , Portegijs Erja , Rantanen Taina
Published: September 2021

Background

The usual accelerometry-based measures of physical activity (PA) are dependent on physical performance. We investigated the associations between PA relative to walking performance and the prevalence and incidence of early and advanced walking difficulties compared to generally used measures of PA.

Methods

Perceived walking difficulty was evaluated in 994 community-dwelling participants at baseline (age 75, 80, or 85 years) and 2 years later over 2 km (early difficulty) and 500 m (advanced difficulty). We used a thigh-mounted accelerometer to assess moderate-to-vigorous PA, daily mean acceleration, and relative PA as movement beyond the intensity of preferred walking speed in a 6-minute walking test (PArel). Self-reported PA was assessed using questionnaires.

Results

The prevalence and incidence were 36.2% and 18.9% for early and 22.4% and 14.9% for advanced walking difficulty, respectively. PArel was lower in participants with prevalent (mean 42 [SD 45] vs 69 [91] min/week, p < .001) but not incident early walking difficulty (53 [75] vs 72 [96] min/week, p = .15) compared to those without difficulty. The associations between absolute measures of PA and incident walking difficulty were attenuated when adjusted for preferred walking speed.

Conclusions

The variation in habitual PA may not explain the differences in the development of new walking difficulty. Differences in physical performance explain a meaningful part of the association of PA with incident walking difficulty. Scaling of accelerometry to preferred walking speed demonstrated independence on physical performance and warrants future study as a promising indicator of PA in observational studies among older adults.
Care Received and Unmet Care Needs Among Older Parents in Biological and Step Families
Authors: Patterson Sarah E , Schoeni Robert F , Freedman Vicki A , Seltzer Judith A
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Increased likelihood of having step children among more recent cohorts of older adults, alongside lower levels of assistance from step children, has led to concerns about greater unmet needs for older parents in step families. However, few studies have directly examined family structure and unmet needs. We examined the associations between having step children (vs. only biological children) and receiving care from adult children, and unmet needs for assistance.

Methods

Using the 2015 National Health and Aging Trends Study, we investigated among older parents with care needs whether levels of care received from adult children and unmet needs differed between those with biological versus step families. We also explored whether a partner or paid care compensated for observed differences.

Results

Older parents in need of care were more than twice as likely to receive care from their adult children if they had biological instead of step families. Unmet needs among older parents did not differ by family structure, nor did levels of partner or paid care.

Discussion

Results illustrate that concerns about the implications of the rising prevalence of step families for care parents receive from their children may be warranted. However, there is a lack of evidence of greater unmet need for care for older parents in step families, as risks of unmet needs are high for older parents regardless of family type.
Successful Family-Driven Intervention in Elder Family Financial Exploitation: A Case Study
Authors: Kilaberia Tina R , Stum Marlene S
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives

The prevalence and consequences of elder family financial exploitation reinforce the need for a range of effective intervention strategies. This article describes how and why one family successfully intervened in the family-based financial exploitation, constructing, and achieving meaningful processes and outcomes for the specific family and context.

Research Design and Methods

Case data analysis and interpretation were guided by Stake’s (2015) systematic phases of case summary (factual information), inductive case themes (issue relevant meanings), and case features (abstractions to the existing knowledge). The case was selected from a larger study examining the meaning and experience of elder family financial exploitation based on the following case boundaries: reliance on family members with minimal private sector support, no report to the authorities, and successful outcomes for the victim, perpetrator, and the family system.

Results

The case family successfully resolved family-based financial exploitation by (a) honoring the victim’s wishes, (b) providing support and accountability for the perpetrator, (c) restoring family relationships and functioning, and (d) family-driven decision making. A family systems approach and the application of restorative justice principles are identified as overarching case features.

Discussion and Implications

As a study of a previously undocumented experience of successful family involvement, the case findings are useful for researchers and practitioners when constructing and examining the effectiveness of future intervention strategies.
The Moderating Role of Race and Ethnicity in the Relationship Between Negative Family Interactions and Mental Health Among Older Adults
Authors: Wang Fei , Nguyen Ann W , Lincoln Karen D , Qin Weidi , Hamler Tyrone
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives

Studies generally show that negative social interactions are detrimental to mental health for older adults. Furthermore, empirical evidence suggests that negative interactions may function differently in relation to mental health across racial/ethnic groups given their unique life circumstances and social conditions. This study examines whether the association between negative family interactions and mental health outcomes varies by race and ethnicity.

Research Design and Methods

Samples of older African Americans, Caribbean Blacks, and non-Latino Whites aged 55 and older were drawn from the National Survey of American Life (N = 1,439). Mental health variables included depressive symptoms, any lifetime disorder according to The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV), and number of lifetime DSM-IV disorders. Regression models were used to test the study aim.

Results

Analyses indicated that negative interactions with family were positively associated with all 3 mental health outcomes. Several racial/ethnic differences emerged. The association between negative family interactions and depressive symptoms was stronger among Whites than African Americans. While negative family interactions were positively associated with number of disorders among Caribbean Blacks, negative interactions were unrelated to number of disorders among African Americans.

Discussion and Implications

This study demonstrates the racial and ethnic differences in diverse aging populations and the importance of recognizing the heterogeneity of the Black American population in minority research. Clinical practice should focus on reducing negative family interactions, and future research should examine whether psychosocial resources (e.g., stress appraisals, neighborhood social cohesion, and religious practices) can attenuate the association between negative family interactions and mental health for older African Americans.
Introducing the Practice Dive Approach: an extension of co-creation in physical activity promotion and health promotion
Authors: Popp Johanna , Carl Johannes , Grüne Eva , Pfeifer Klaus
Published: September 2021

Recently, there has been increasing interest in co-creation utilized for physical activity (PA) promotion and health promotion. Co-creation involves researchers and non-academic stakeholders conjointly developing and implementing interventions. In addition to the frequently reported benefits of co-creation, critical voices highlight the associated challenges (e.g. different interests that inhibit interaction). So far, research has not identified concrete solutions to these challenges and the limitations of co-creation. This article aims to introduce the Practice Dive Approach as a potential way to strengthen cooperation between researchers and non-academic stakeholders. We build on real-life experiences from a German research project, in which researchers moved into practice to familiarize themselves with the settings and end-users. After conducting a literature search on related concepts in PA/health promotion, we developed a comprehensive approach to fostering multi-sectoral cooperation. The introduced Practice Dive Approach assumes that a significant contribution to better cooperation among co-creators is the temporal immersion of researchers in their setting of interest, which has the potential to improve the success of co-creation in the PA/health promotion field. A four-level typology characterizes the intensity of researcher interactions with the setting and the non-academic stakeholders. Potential beneficial effects for both researchers and non-academic stakeholders can be hypothesized (e.g. familiarity with the setting structures and increased understanding of the end-users), while simultaneously, some challenges need to be considered. Future research should aim to validate the concept and its postulated effects.
Foreign policy thought in Weimar’s ‘conservative revolution’: realpolitik or a question of being?
Authors: Nedzynski Nicholas
Published: September 2021

This article illuminates a neglected aspect of conservative revolutionary ideology: namely, foreign policy. It shows that the conservative revolution was united by more than opposition to political liberalism, while simultaneously considering the different tendencies and tensions at work within the current. It proves that the foreign political agendas championed by conservative revolutionaries share the cultural impulses and metaphysical basis that characterize their ideals in other spheres. This elucidates the relationship between the ‘spiritual’ and the ‘political’ that permeates conservative revolutionary thinking. These aims are achieved through a close, comparative analysis of original texts, in concert with a thematic approach.
Exosomal transfer of activated neutrophil-derived lncRNA CRNDE promotes proliferation and migration of airway smooth muscle cells in asthma
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Yu , Chen Zhuo-Chang , Li Nan , Wang Zhi-Hua , Guo Ya-Li , Tian Cui-Jie , Cheng Dong-Jun , Tang Xue-Yi , Zhang Luo-Xian
Published: September 2021

Activated neutrophil-derived exosomes reportedly contribute to the proliferation of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs), thereby aggravating the airway wall remodeling during asthma; however, the specific mechanism remains unclear. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-EXO and si-CRNDE-EXO were extracted from the media of human neutrophils treated with LPS and LPS + si-CRNDE (a siRNA targets long non-coding RNA CRNDE), respectively. Human ASMCs were co-cultured with LPS-EXO or si-CRNDE-EXO, and cell viability, proliferation and migration were measured. The interplay of colorectal neoplasia differentially expressed (CRNDE), inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B kinase subunit beta (IKKβ) and nuclear receptor subfamily 2 group C member 2 (TAK1) was explored using RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and Co-IP assays. A mouse model of asthma was induced using ovalbumin. CRNDE was upregulated in LPS-EXO and successfully transferred from LPS-treated neutrophils to ASMCs through exosome. Mechanically, CRNDE loaded in LPS-EXO reinforced TAK1-mediated IKKβ phosphorylation, thereby activating the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. Functionally, silencing CRNDE in LPS-EXO, an IKKβ inhibitor, and an NF-κB inhibitor all removed the upregulation of cell viability, proliferation and migration induced by LPS-EXO in ASMCs. In the end, the in vivo experiment demonstrated that CRNDE knockdown in neutrophils effectively reduced the thickness of bronchial smooth muscle in a mouse model for asthma. Activated neutrophils-derived CRNDE was transferred to ASMCs through exosomes and activated the NF-κB pathway by enhancing IKKβ phosphorylation. The latter promoted the proliferation and migration of ASMCs and then contributed to airway remodeling in asthma.
FUS-induced neurotoxicity is prevented by inhibiting GSK-3β in aDrosophilamodel of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Choi Hyun-Jun , Lee Ji Young , Cha Sun Joo , Han Yeo Jeong , Yoon Ja Hoon , Kim Hyung-Jun , Kim Kiyoung
Published: September 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-linked mutations in fused in sarcoma (FUS) lead to the formation of cytoplasmic aggregates in neurons. They are believed to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of FUS-associated ALS. Therefore, the clearance and degradation of cytoplasmic FUS aggregates in neurons may be considered a therapeutic strategy for ALS. However, the molecular pathogenic mechanisms behind FUS-associated ALS remain poorly understood. Here, we report GSK-3β as a potential modulator of FUS-induced toxicity. We demonstrated that RNAi-mediated knockdown of Drosophila ortholog Shaggy in FUS-expressing flies suppresses defective phenotypes, including retinal degeneration, motor defects, motor neuron degeneration and mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, we found that cytoplasmic FUS aggregates were significantly reduced by Shaggy knockdown. In addition, we found that the levels of FUS proteins were significantly reduced by co-overexpression of Slimb, a F-box protein, in FUS-expressing flies, indicating that Slimb is critical for the suppressive effect of Shaggy/GSK-3β inhibition on FUS-induced toxicity in Drosophila. These findings revealed a novel mechanism of neuronal protective effect through SCFSlimb-mediated FUS degradation via GSK-3β inhibition, and provided in vivo evidence of the potential for modulating FUS-induced ALS progression using GSK-3β inhibitors.
A realist evaluation of the individual transferable quota system used in Finnish herring fisheries
Authors: Hanstén Magnus , Haapasaari Päivi , Kuikka Sakari
Published: September 2021

Rights-based management, such as the individual transferable quota (ITQ) system, is a popular approach for pursuing economic, social, and environmental sustainability in fisheries, with a variety of outcomes. This variety appears to be explained by the contextual differences between the targeted fisheries. By acknowledging that each fishery is unique, we need to apply holistic evaluation methods to understand the mechanisms causing different outcomes in fisheries interventions. Here, we apply the realist evaluation (RE) approach to evaluate the ITQ system implemented in the Finnish herring fishery. This study serves two purposes: (1) it outlines the realized outcomes of the Finnish management system in relation to the expected outcomes and (2) it introduces the RE method to the field of fisheries management. Measured in economic terms, the results indicate the new management system to be a success, although the benefits are more prominent for large-scale fishers. The context did not allow small-scale fishers to reap the theorized benefits of the ITQ system, leading to a somewhat more uncertain future for the sector. The RE approach proved to be a useful tool, well-suited to the evaluation of fisheries management systems.
Social and emotional factors as predictors of poor outcomes following cardiac surgery
Authors: Cromhout Pernille Fevejle , Thygesen Lau Caspar , Moons Philip , Nashef Samer , Damgaard Sune , Berg Selina Kikkenborg
Published: September 2021

OBJECTIVES

Existing risk prediction models in cardiac surgery stratify individuals based on their predicted risk, including only medical and physiological factors. However, the complex nature of risk assessment and the lack of parameters representing non-medical aspects of patients’ lives point towards the need for a broader paradigm in cardiac surgery. Objectives were to evaluate the predictive value of emotional and social factors on 4 outcomes; death within 90 days, prolonged stay in intensive care (≥72 h), prolonged hospital admission (≥10 days) and readmission within 90 days following cardiac surgery, as a supplement to traditional risk assessment by European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE).

METHODS

The study included adults undergoing cardiac surgery in Denmark 2014–2017 including information on register-based socio-economic factors, and, in a nested subsample, self-reported symptoms of anxiety and depression. Logistic regression analyses were conducted, adjusted for EuroSCORE, of variables reflecting social and emotional factors.

RESULTS

Amongst 7874 included patients, lower educational level (odds ratio 1.33; 95% confidence interval 1.17–1.51) and living alone (1.25; 1.14–1.38) were associated with prolonged hospital admission after adjustment for EuroSCORE. Lower educational level was also associated with prolonged intensive care unit stay (1.27; 1.00–1.63). Having a high income was associated with decreased odds of prolonged hospital admission (0.78; 0.70–0.87). No associations or predictive value for symptoms of anxiety or depression were found on any outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Social disparity is predictive of poor outcomes following cardiac surgery. Symptoms of anxiety and depression are frequent especially amongst patients with a high-risk profile according to EuroSCORE.

Subj collection

105, 123
The difference in postoperative pulmonary functional change between upper and lower thoracoscopic lobectomy
Authors: Tane Shinya , Kitazume Mai , Fujibayashi Yusuke , Kuroda Sanae , Kimura Kenji , Kitamura Yoshitaka , Takenaka Daisuke , Nishio Wataru
Published: September 2021

OBJECTIVES

Through 3-dimensional lung volumetric and morphological analyses, we aimed to evaluate the difference in postoperative functional changes between upper and lower thoracoscopic lobectomy.

METHODS

A total of 145 lung cancer patients who underwent thoracoscopic upper lobectomy (UL) were matched with 145 patients with lung cancer who underwent thoracoscopic lower lobectomy (LL) between April 2012 and December 2018, based on their sex, age, smoking history, operation side, and pulmonary function. Spirometry and computed tomography were performed before and 6 months after the operation. In addition, the postoperative pulmonary function, volume and morphological changes between the 2 groups were compared.

RESULTS

The rate of postoperative decreased and the ratio of actual to predicted postoperative forced expiratory volume in 1 s were significantly higher after LL than after UL (P < 0.001 for both). The tendency above was similar irrespective of the resected side. The postoperative actual volumes of the ipsilateral residual lobe and contralateral lung were larger than the preoperatively measured volumes in each side lobectomy. Moreover, the increased change was particularly remarkable in the middle lobe after right LL. The change in the D-value, representing the structural complexity of the lung, was better maintained in the left lung after LL than after UL (P = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

Pulmonary function after thoracoscopic LL was superior to that after UL because the upward displacement and the pulmonary reserves of the remaining lobe appeared more robust after LL.
How blood pressure predicts frailty transitions in older adults in a population-based cohort study: a multi-state transition model
Authors: Anker Daniela , Carmeli Cristian , Zwahlen Marcel , Rodondi Nicolas , Santschi Valérie , Henchoz Yves , Wolfson Christina , Chiolero Arnaud
Published: September 2021

Background

Low blood pressure (BP) is associated with frailty in older adults. Our aim was to explore how BP predicts transitions between frailty states.

Methods

We used data from the Lausanne cohort Lc65+, a population-based cohort of older adults randomly drawn from a population registry in Switzerland, in 2004, 2009 and 2014. BP was measured using a clinically validated oscillometric automated device and frailty was defined using Fried’s phenotype, every 3 years. We used an illness-death discrete multi-state Markov model to estimate hazard ratios of forward and backward transitions between frailty states (outcome) in relation to BP categories (predictor of interest) with adjustment for sex, age and antihypertensive medication (other predictors).

Results

Among 4200 participants aged 65–70 years (58% female) at baseline, 70% were non-frail, 27% pre-frail and 2.0% frail. Over an average follow-up of 5.8 years, 2422 transitions were observed, with 1575 (65%) forward and 847 (35%) backward. Compared with systolic BP (SBP) <130 mmHg, the hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of the transition from non-frail to pre-frail was 0.86 (0.74 to 1.00) for SBP 130–150 mmHg, and 0.89 (0.74 to 1.06) for SBP ≥150 mmHg. Compared with SBP <130 mmHg, the hazard ratio of the transition from pre-frail to frail was 0.71 (0.50 to 1.01) for SBP 130–150 mmHg, and 0.90 (0.62 to 1.32) for SBP ≥150 mmHg. Diastolic BP was a weaker predictor of forward transitions.

Conclusions

BP categories had no strong relationship with either forward transitions or backward transitions in frailty states. If our findings are confirmed with greater precision and assuming a causal relationship, they would suggest that there is no well-defined optimal BP level to prevent frailty among older adults.
Quantitative Hilbert Irreducibility and Almost Prime Values of Polynomial Discriminants
Authors: Anderson Theresa C , Gafni Ayla , Lemke Oliver Robert J , Lowry-Duda David , Shakan George , Zhang Ruixiang
Published: September 2021

We study two polynomial counting questions in arithmetic statistics via a combination of Fourier analytic and arithmetic methods. First, we obtain new quantitative forms of Hilbert’s Irreducibility Theorem for degree $n$ polynomials $f$ with $\textrm {Gal}(f) \subseteq A_n$. We study this both for monic polynomials and non-monic polynomials. Second, we study lower bounds on the number of degree $n$ monic polynomials with almost prime discriminants, as well as the closely related problem of lower bounds on the number of degree $n$ number fields with almost prime discriminants.
Local Ihara’s Lemma and Applications
Authors: Boyer Pascal
Published: September 2021

Persistence of nondegeneracy is a phenomenon that appears in the theory of $\overline{\mathbb{Q}}_l$-representations of the linear group: every irreducible submodule of the restriction to the mirabolic sub-representation of a nondegenerate irreducible representation is nondegenerate. This is not true anymore in general, if we look at the modulo $l$ reduction of some stable lattice. As in the Clozel–Harris–Taylor generalization of global Ihara’s lemma, we show that this property, called nondegeneracy persistence and related to the notion of essentially absolutely irreducible and generic representations in the work of Emerton and Helm, remains true for lattices given by the cohomology of Lubin–Tate spaces. As a global application, we give a new construction of automorphic congruences in the Ribet spirit.

Résumé. La persistence de la non dégénérescence est un phénomène qui apparait dans la théorie des $\overline{\mathbb{Q}}_l$-représentations du groupe linéaire: toute sous-représentation irréductible de la restriction au groupe mirabolique d’une représentation irréductible non dégénérée, est non dégénérée. Ce n’est plus le cas en général pour la réduction modulo $l$ d’un réseau stable. Comme dans la généralisation par Clozel-Harris-Taylor du lemme d’Ihara, nous montrons que cette propriété de non dégénérescence, qui est reliée à la notion de représentation essentiellement absolument générique de Emerton-Helm, reste valide pour les réseaux donnés par la cohomologie des espaces de Lubin-Tate. Nous donnons une application de nature globale en construisant des congruences automorphes dans l’esprit du travail de Ribet.
Gaussian Asymptotics of Jack Measures on Partitions From Weighted Enumeration of Ribbon Paths
Authors: Moll Alexander
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we determine two asymptotic results for Jack measures $M(v^{\textrm {out}}, v^{\textrm {in}})$, a measure on partitions defined by two specializations $v^{\textrm {out}}, v^{\textrm {in}}$ of Jack polynomials proposed by Borodin–Olshanski in [10]. Assuming $v^{\textrm {out}} = v^{\textrm {in}}$, we derive limit shapes and Gaussian fluctuations for the anisotropic profiles of these random partitions in three asymptotic regimes associated to vanishing, fixed, and diverging values of the Jack parameter. To do so, we introduce a generalization of Motzkin paths we call “ribbon paths,” show for arbitrary $v^{\textrm {out}}, v^{\textrm {in}}$ that certain Jack measure joint cumulants ${\kappa _n}$ are weighted sums of connected ribbon paths on $n$ sites with $n-1+g$ pairings, and derive our two results from the contributions of $(n,g)=(1,0)$ and $(2,0)$, respectively. Our analysis makes use of Nazarov–Sklyanin’s spectral theory for Jack polynomials. As a consequence, we give new proofs of several results for Schur measures, Plancherel measures, and Jack–Plancherel measures. In addition, we relate our weighted sums of ribbon paths to the weighted sums of ribbon graphs of maps on non-oriented real surfaces recently introduced by Chapuy–Dołęga.
Nutrition and Food Security in Bangladesh: Achievements, Challenges, and Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Fahim Shah Mohammad , Hossain Md Shabab , Sen Shimul , Das Subhasish , Hosssain Muttaquina , Ahmed Tahmeed , Rahman S M Mustafizur , Rahman Md Khalilur , Alam Shamsul
Published: September 2021

Background

Bangladesh has experienced remarkable transformation in demographic, health, and nutritional status of the population. The changes have exposed the population to a number of challenges, the detrimental effect of which on health and nutrition is likely to be increased by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We provide an overview of health and nutritional challenges in Bangladesh in relation to demographic transition and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We identified and reviewed recent reports, published articles, and pertinent gray literature on nutrition and food security in Bangladesh to provide historical and contextual information.

Results

The review identifies the progress as well as existing burden regarding nutrition and food security in Bangladesh and highlights the challenges in the coming days in regard to population growth and the COVID-19 pandemic. The country is on track to reduce all forms of childhood undernutrition, while the proportion of nutrition-related noncommunicable diseases is rising owing to changes in dietary intake, low physical activity, and sedentary lifestyle.

Conclusions

Despite remarkable progress, health and nutritional status of the population in Bangladesh faces challenges, particularly in relation to demographic transition and compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, which require concerted attention from policymakers as well as stakeholders.
Spatial Distribution of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax in Northern Ethiopia by Microscopic, Rapid Diagnostic Test, Laboratory Antibody, and Antigen Data
Authors: Leonard Colleen M , Assefa Ashenafi , Sime Heven , Mohammed Hussein , Kebede Amha , Solomon Hiwot , Drakeley Chris , Murphy Matt , Hwang Jimee , Rogier Eric
Published: September 2021

Background

Determining malaria transmission within regions of low, heterogenous prevalence is difficult. A variety of malaria tests exist and range from identification of diagnostic infection to testing for prior exposure. This study describes the concordance of multiple malaria tests using data from a 2015 household survey conducted in Ethiopia.

Methods

Blood samples (n=2279) from 3 regions in northern Ethiopia were assessed for Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax by means of microscopy, rapid diagnostic test, multiplex antigen assay, and multiplex assay for immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. Geospatial analysis was conducted with spatial scan statistics and kernel density estimation to identify malaria hot spots by different test results.

Results

The prevalence of malaria infection was low (1.4% by rapid diagnostic test, 1.0% by microscopy, and 1.8% by laboratory antigen assay). For P. falciparum, overlapping spatial clusters for all tests and an additional 5 unique IgG clusters were identified. For P. vivax, clusters identified with bead antigen assay, microscopy, and IgG partially overlapped.

Conclusions

Assessing the spatial distribution of malaria exposure using multiple metrics can improve the understanding of malaria transmission dynamics in a region. The relative abundance of antibody clusters indicates that in areas of low transmission, IgG antibodies are a more useful marker to assess malaria exposure.
Rise of Informal Slums and the Next Global Pandemic
Authors: Ross Allen G , Alam Munirul , Rahman Mahbubur , Qadri Firdausi , Mahmood Shehrin S , Zaman Khalequ , Chau Thao N , Chattopadhyay Abhiprasun , Gon Chaudhuri Santi P
Published: September 2021

Informal slums are growing exponentially in the developing world and these will serve as the breeding ground for a future global pandemic. Virtually every sustainable development goal is unmet in slums around the globe thus we must act now to divert a global humanitarian crisis.