bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Piezo1 and BKCa channels in human atrial fibroblasts: interplay and remodelling in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Jakob D , Klesen A , Allegrini B , Darkow E , Aria D , Emig D , Guizouarn H , Schmidt C , Kohl P , Ravens U , Peyronnet R 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Ministry of Science, Research and Arts Baden-Württemberg (MWK-BW Sonderlinie Medizin)
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is an arrhythmia of increasing prevalence. One of the important indicators for AF is sustained atrial dilatation, highlighting the importance of mechanical overload in the pathophysiology of AF. The mechanisms by which atrial cells, including fibroblasts, sense and react to such changing mechanical forces, are not fully elucidated. Here, we characterise stretch-activated ion channels (SAC) in human atrial fibroblasts and changes in their expression and activity associated with AF.
Using primary cultures of human atrial fibroblasts, isolated from patients in sinus rhythm or with sustained AF, we combine electrophysiological, molecular and pharmacological tools to identify SAC. Two electrophysiological SAC-signatures were detected, indicative of cation-nonselective and potassium-selective channels. Using siRNA-mediated knockdown, we identified the nonselective SAC as Piezo1. Biophysical properties of the potassium-selective channel and its pharmacology indicated presence of ‘big potassium channels’, BKCa. In cells from AF patients, Piezo1 activity and mRNA expression levels were higher than in cells from sinus rhythm patients, while BKCa activity (but not expression) was downregulated. Both Piezo1-knockdown and removal of extracellular calcium from the patch pipette resulted in a significant reduction of stretch-induced BKCa current. No co-immunoprecipitation of Piezo1 and BKCa was detected.
Human atrial fibroblasts express functional Piezo1 and BKCa channels. While Piezo1 is directly stretch-activated, the increase in BKCa activity during mechanical stimulation appears to be mainly secondary to calcium influx via SAC such as Piezo1. During sustained AF, Piezo1 is increased, while BKCa activity is reduced, highlighting differential regulation of both channels. Our data show the presence and activity of Piezo1 and BKCa in human atrial fibroblasts and suggest an interplay between the two in the absence of direct physical interactions.
Innate immune response: ally or enemy in cutaneous leishmaniasis?
Authors: Serrano-Coll Héctor , Cardona-Castro Nora , Ramos Ana Pilar , Llanos-Cuentas Alejandro 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is an infectious and neglected disease caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania, which produces a wide spectrum of cutaneous manifestations. CL research has shown that the innate immune activity of cells such as neutrophils, natural killers, macrophages, dendritic cells and the complement system are capable of controlling this infection. However, Leishmania can also modulate the immune activity of these cells to promote its own survival and proliferation at the intracellular level. This review discusses the role of the innate immune response in the control and spread of this infection.
Convergent Adaptation in Mitochondria of Phylogenetically Distant Birds: Does it Exist?
Authors: Burskaia Valentina , Artyushin Ilja , Potapova Nadezhda A , Konovalov Kirill , Bazykin Georgii A 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
In a wide range of taxa, proteins encoded by mitochondrial genomes are involved in adaptation to lifestyle that requires oxygen starvation or elevation of metabolism rate. It remains poorly understood to what extent adaptation to similar conditions is associated with parallel changes in these proteins. We search for a genetic signal of parallel or convergent evolution in recurrent molecular adaptation to high altitude, migration, diving, wintering, unusual flight abilities, or loss of flight in mitochondrial genomes of birds. Developing on previous work, we design an approach for the detection of recurrent coincident changes in genotype and phenotype, indicative of an association between the two. We describe a number of candidate sites involved in recurrent adaptation in ND genes. However, we find that the majority of convergence events can be explained by random coincidences without invoking adaptation.
A Longitudinal Investigation Into Marital Quality as a Mediator Linking Childhood Abuse to Affective Symptoms
Authors: Fitzgerald Michael , Berthiaume Kelly 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Objective
Childhood abuse is positively associated with adult mental health problems and adult interpersonal relationships have been previously suggested to be a mediator. The role of marital partners, however, is less well understood. The current study will investigate marital quality as a mediator linking childhood abuse and positive and negative affective symptoms.

Method
The current study utilized 3 waves of data from the Midlife Development in the United States. Using a sample of 1,104 married adults (95.4% White), structural equation modeling examined the mediating effect of marital quality linking childhood abuse to positive and negative affective symptoms over a 20-year period.

Results
Structural equation modeling revealed that childhood abuse was inversely associated with marital quality but was not directly associated with positive or negative affective symptoms. Marital quality was positively associated with greater positive affect and negatively associated with lower negative affect over a 9-year period, controlling for prior symptoms. Tests of indirect effects indicate that marital quality mediated the relationship between childhood abuse to both positive and negative affective symptoms, fully accounting for the association.

Discussion
It appears that childhood abuse impacts the quality of adults’ marriages, which may have significant implications for both positive and negative aspects of adult mental health. Marriages may be an important factor in understanding mental health in midlife and older adults among adults who were abused. Interventions should target the quality of adult marriages, and focusing on marital support, strain, and disagreement may be particularly effective.
Co-evolutionary game of manufacturers’ abatement behavior under carbon tax-subsidy policy
Authors: Zhang Suyong , Wang Chuanxu , Pardalos Panos M 
Published: May 2021

AbstractIn the context of carbon tax-subsidy policy, our paper develops the models of the tripartite evolutionary game between consumers, manufacturers and local governments and analyzes the impacts of carbon tax-subsidy policy on the strategies of consumers, manufacturers and local governments. Through the construction of replicated dynamic equations, we get the evolutionary stable strategy. Then, the numerical analysis is performed with system dynamics simulation. The results show that (i) the local governments should strengthen the consumers’ awareness of environmental protection through higher financial subsidies, (ii) the taxation intensity coefficient accelerates the dynamic system to evolve into a stable state and (iii) an appropriate punishment by the government accelerates the dynamic system to evolve into a stable state. Our research is expected to provide a reference for local governments to implement effective carbon tax-subsidy policy on manufacturers.
On the 𝔸1-Euler Characteristic of the Variety of Maximal Tori in a Reductive Group
Authors: Ananyevskiy Alexey 
Published: May 2021

AbstractWe show that for a reductive group $G$ over a field $k$ the $\mathbb{A}^1$-Euler characteristic of the variety of maximal tori in $G$ is an invertible element of the Grothendieck–Witt ring ${\textrm{GW}}(k)$, settling the weak form of a conjecture by Fabien Morel. As an application we obtain a generalized splitting principle that allows one to reduce the structure group of a Nisnevich locally trivial $G$-torsor to the normalizer of a maximal torus.
Separation of Three Phenanthrenes and Two Bibenzyls from Chloroform Fractions of Pholidota Articulata Lindl. Using HPLC
Authors: Zhu Xiuying , Yan Hegui , Yang Minghui , Yang Xiaoqiong , He Lu 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Pholidota articulata Lindl has been used as a traditional medicine and Yi-nationality herbal medicine for the treatment of various diseases. Phenanthrenes and bibenzyls commonly found in the genus Pholidota are one of their most important natural ingredients, due to their various biological activities.

Objective
This study aimed to establish an HPLC method for determination of the levels of three phenenthrenes (flavidin, lusianthridin, coelonin) and two bibenzyls (batatasin III, cirrhopetalidin) in rhizomes of P. articulata Lindl.

Method
The separated and elucidated compounds from chloroform fractions of P. articulata Lindl were used as standards and analyzed by gradient elution HPLC with a variable wavelength detector at 274 nm.

Results
The calibration curves exhibited good linearity (R2 = 0.9999), ranging from 20 to 960 ng/mL, the average recoveries were between 91.5 and 102.9%, and the RSD values of precision, stability, and repeatability were &lt;2.34%. There were significant differences in the content of phenenthrenes and bibenzyls from the plants of genus Pholidota, Dendrobium, and Bulbophyllum. Furthermore, this is the first report on the validation of a method for the quantitative analysis of flavidin and cirrhopetalidin.

Conclusions
The present study provides an alternative method for the rapid separation of phenanthrenes and bibenzyls from natural products and lays a foundation for the study of biological activity.

Highlights
When using developed method in this study for separation of phenanthrenes and bibenzyls in genus Pholidota, chemicalin formation was more abundant from chloroform fractions.
Learning from Tribal Leadership and the Anchor Forest Concept for Implementing Cross-Boundary Forest Management
Authors: Jacobson Meredith A , Hajjar Reem , Davis Emily Jane , Hoagland Serra 
Published: May 2021

AbstractIn response to the increasing scale of wildfire and forest health challenges in the West, the Intertribal Timber Council, a nonprofit consortium of American Indian Tribes and Alaska Native corporations, proposed creating “Anchor Forests,” where a Tribe would convene neighboring landowners to collectively manage the landscape across property boundaries. This concept has sparked conversation but has not been fully implemented. Amid shifts toward both collaborative decision making and Tribal partnerships on federal forestlands, we asked, “why did the Anchor Forest concept emerge, and what can the field of forest governance learn from its development?” Through qualitative analysis of documents and interviews, we show how Anchor Forests could expand spatial-temporal scales of forest management. We highlight how Tribal leadership could overcome past governance barriers through their sovereign authority and long-term forestry expertise and knowledge. We describe how this concept could function as a tool to enact change within rigid forest-management institutions.
Fatal complications after an interrupted gastric bypass operation in a patient with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and massive obesity: a case report
Authors: Käkelä Pirjo , Rantanen Tuomo , Paajanen Hannu , Virtanen Kirsi A 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Obesity is closely linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the latter now being the most common cause of cirrhosis in Western countries. Only a few cases have been described, such as the unexpected death after interrupted obesity surgery in a patient due to inaccurate preoperative imaging assessment. We describe a 53-year-old male patient with multiple comorbidities partly related to his obesity. A laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) was attempted. During anaesthesia, the patient had a cardiac arrhythmia and a short asystole. Intra-operative findings indicated a giant spleen and, unexpectedly, a cirrhotic liver. The LRYGB operation was interrupted. After 19 months, the patient died due to his severe comorbidities. Preoperative imaging missed the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis and related NASH. Since a challenging liver failure diagnosis cannot only rely on current imaging, we suggest that a liver biopsy is performed prior to LRYGB if preoperative imaging indicates cirrhotic liver.
A rare sporadic pancreatic desmoid fibromatosis with splenic vein invasion diagnosed by CT scan-guided core needle biopsy: a case report with possible differential diagnosis from metastatic colorectal or renal cancer
Authors: Meyer Alberto , Szajnbok Paulo , Koszka Andreas Johann Molnar , Pezzutti Daniela , Segatelli Vanderlei , Monteiro José 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Desmoid tumor is a rare fibroblastic proliferation with a variable and often unpredictable clinical course that arises in the deep soft tissues and is characterized by infiltrative growth with tendency to local recurrence but not to metastasize. A 49-year-old man was referred for a second opinion regarding a pancreatic mass. With a personal neoplastic background of two different tumors, we considered as a high probability of being metastatic of his previous colorectal or renal cancers, in a peritoneal implant. Due to the unclear origin and nature of the mass, we opted for requesting a computed tomography (CT)-guided core needle biopsy that could eventually lead to a surgical and/or chemotherapy treatment. So far, this is the first case of pancreatic desmoid fibromatosis with splenic vein invasion diagnosed by CT scan-guided core needle biopsy. Surgery should be performed by an experienced surgeon as first-line therapy, provided expected surgical morbidity is limited.
Accurate Quantification of Monoclonal Immunoglobulins Migrating in the Beta Region on Protein Electrophoresis
Authors: Omar Nivin , Madwani Kiran , Moideen Pramila , Manthei David M , Keren David F , Singh Gurmukh 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
The concentration of monoclonal immunoglobulins (Igs) in neoplastic monoclonal gammopathic manifestations is generally measured by densitometric scanning of the monoclonal peaks on gel or by measuring absorbance at 210 nm in capillary electrophoresis (CE). For monoclonal Igs migrating in the beta region, measurement is complicated by the major beta-region proteins, namely, transferrin and C3.

Methods
C3 interference in densitometry was eliminated by heat treatment of serum, and monoclonal Igs were quantified by densitometry of the residual band. The immunochemical measurement of transferrin was converted to its equivalent densitometric quantity. For monoclonal Ig migrating with transferrin, the contribution of the latter was removed by subtracting the converted transferrin concentration from the combined densitometric quantification of the band. With CE, monoclonal Ig was measured by using immunosubtraction (ISUB) to guide demarcation.

Results
The results obtained using the C3 depletion and transferrin subtraction method were lower and yet comparable to the results derived from using CE measurement guided by ISUB. As we expected, the results from both methods were lower than those derived from a perpendicular drop measurement of the peak or via nephelometric assay of the involved isotype.

Discussion
Accurate measurement of monoclonal Igs is important for the diagnosis and monitoring of monoclonal gammopathic manifestations. Determination of serum free light chain concentration per gram of monoclonal Ig is an essential measure for the diagnosis of light chain–predominant multiple myeloma. The method described herein improves accuracy of measurements for monoclonal Igs migrating in the beta region, without the need for special reagents or equipment.
Veterans’ Experiences With Accessing Community Emergency Care
Authors: Nevedal Andrea L , Wong Emily P , Urech Tracy H , Peppiatt Jennifer L , Sorie Michelle R , Vashi Anita A 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Under current regulations, there are three separate authorities for which the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) can pay for emergency medical care received by Veterans in the community. The three VHA authorities have overlapping criteria and eligibility requirements that contribute to a complex and confusing landscape for Veterans when they obtain emergency care in the community. Given the intricacies in how VHA provides coverage for community emergency care and the desire to provide seamless Veteran-centric care, it is imperative to understand Veterans’ experiences with navigating coverage for community emergency care. The purpose of this study was to elicit feedback from Veterans about their experiences with and perceptions of community emergency care coverage paid for by VHA.

Materials and Methods
Veterans Health Administration data were used to identify geographically diverse Veterans who recently used emergency care. We conducted semi-structured, qualitative interviews with 50 Veterans to understand their VHA coverage and experiences with accessing community emergency care. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. We conducted directed content analysis of interview transcripts.

Results
Veterans emphasized three major concerns with navigating community emergency care: (1) they lack information about benefits and eligibility when they need it most, (2) they require assistance with medical billing to avoid financial hardship and future delays in care, and (3) they desire multimodal communication about VHA policies or updates in emergency coverage.

Conclusions
Our results highlight the challenges Veterans experience in understanding VHA coverage for community emergency care. Feedback suggests that improving information, support, and communication may help Veterans make timely, informed decisions when experiencing unexpected illness or injury.
Vestibular Physical Therapy Treatment of Individuals Exposed to Directed Energy
Authors: Hoppes Carrie W , Lambert Karen H , Klatt Brooke N , Harvard Orlando D , Whitney Susan L 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Following suspected sonic attacks on U.S. Embassies, a subset of individuals presented with a unique cluster of symptoms believed to have resulted from exposure to directed energy. Directed energy has been described as exposure to a unique sound/pressure phenomenon such as infrasonic or ultrasonic acoustic or electromagnetic energy. The Joint Force does not have an established protocol to guide vestibular physical therapy for individuals exposed to directed energy. Therefore, we have provided evidence-based guidance for the treatment of oculomotor- and vestibular-related impairments from similar populations.

Materials and Methods
Published evidence was used to inform suggestions for clinical best practice. We offer resources for the management of non-oculomotor- and non-vestibular-related impairments, before discussing physical therapy interventions for dizziness and imbalance.

Results
The physical therapist should design a treatment program that addresses the individual’s health condition(s), body structure and function impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions after suspected directed energy exposure. This treatment program may include static standing, compliant surface standing, weight shifting, modified center of gravity, gait, and gaze stabilization or vestibular-ocular reflex training. Habituation may also be prescribed. Interventions were selected that require little to no specialized equipment, as such equipment may not be available in all settings (i.e., operational environments).

Conclusions
Evidence-based guidance for prescribing a comprehensive vestibular physical therapy regimen for individuals exposed to directed energy may aid in their rehabilitation and return to duty. This standardized approach can help physical therapists to treat complaints that do not match any previously known medical conditions but resemble brain injury or vestibular pathology.
Scleral Discoloration Because of Minocycline Use: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: F.K. Islam Yasmin , P. Horn Erich 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACTIn this case report, we highlight minocycline-induced scleral hyperpigmentation, combined with ear and fingernail discoloration that developed after over 15 years of use for rosacea in a 78-year-old male with multiple medical comorbidities. Minocycline, a tetracycline antibiotic, is used to treat rosacea and acne as well as some orthopedic infections. It is typically used for extended periods of time; long-term use of minocycline is associated with hyperpigmentation of the sclera, conjunctiva, retina, teeth, skin, subcutaneous fat, oral mucosa, tympanic membrane, and gingiva. This case highlights that hyperpigmentation is more likely to occur in older patients than in younger patients. Scleral hyperpigmentation is not associated with vision loss; however, cosmetic concerns can prompt discontinuation of minocycline. Nonetheless, after cessation, the lesions persist in some patients. Monitoring for hyperpigmentation in patients using minocycline is important, as the hyperpigmentation is more likely to be permanent with long-term use.
SARS-CoV-2 Epidemic in the Israeli Defense Force—Lessons Learned From Our rt-PCR Screening Policy
Authors: Tsur Adili , Furer Arik , Avramovich Eva , Karp Erez , Twig Gilad , Bader Tarif , Almakias Miki , Fink Noam 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT

Background
During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, multiple preventative measures were used to prevent the virus from spreading in the population. The Israeli defense force deployed further means to contain the disease, including putting units in quarantine, physical distancing and using masks, gowns and disinfectants when in contact with suspected patients.

Methods
We used reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rt-PCR) tests to screen for patients among asymptomatic soldiers within units participating in civilian aid or in close contact with known patients, using personal protective equipment. Positive results were repeated and followed with serological testing to verify the nature of results.

Results
Between April and May 2020, we screened a total of 1,453 soldiers in 13 different units. We found 11 false positive results, leading to unnecessary measures until resolution, and three true positive results (0.2%). All true positive results had unreported symptoms concomitant with SARS-CoV-2 disease. These results led to the resolution of this screening policy.

Conclusion
Screening asymptomatic army personnel in this setting with rt-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 is not warranted and leads to unnecessary false positive results. Efforts should be directed at identifying symptomatic patients.
Response to Bannenberg and Rice
Authors: Satokar Vidit V , Cutfield Wayne S , Cameron-Smith David , Albert Benjamin B 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This manuscript is a response to concerns expressed in a letter by industry-based scientists Bannenberg and Rice in response to our recent narrative review. In the review, we largely discussed why supplementation with n-3 PUFA rich oils might have benefits to the body composition and metabolism of the offspring of overweight or obese pregnant women. Bannenberg and Rice raised concerns about a number of points that may be perceived as negative about the quality and functionality of commercial fish oils. We provide a refutation to their comments and a brief review of recent evidence regarding the n-3 PUFA content, and oxidative state of supplements available to consumers. From a clinical research perspective, there remains a need to exercise caution. An oil containing less n-3 PUFAs than expected may be ineffective, and lead to incorrect conclusions that n-3 PUFAs lack efficacy. Oxidized fish oil may be ineffective or even cause unwanted harm. Although we must not overinterpret limited evidence from animal models, we have a responsibility to minimize risk to study participants, especially those most vulnerable, such as pregnant women. Prior to selecting a fish oil to be used in a clinical trial, it is essential to independently verify the n-3 PUFA content of the oil, and that the oil is unoxidized.