bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nucleosome composition regulates the histone H3 tail conformational ensemble and accessibility
Authors: Morrison Emma A , Baweja Lokesh , Poirier Michael G , Wereszczynski Jeff , Musselman Catherine A 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Hexasomes and tetrasomes are intermediates in nucleosome assembly and disassembly. Their formation is promoted by histone chaperones, ATP-dependent remodelers, and RNA polymerase II. In addition, hexasomes are maintained in transcribed genes and could be an important regulatory factor. While nucleosome composition has been shown to affect the structure and accessibility of DNA, its influence on histone tails is largely unknown. Here, we investigate the conformational dynamics of the H3 tail in the hexasome and tetrasome. Using a combination of NMR spectroscopy, MD simulations, and trypsin proteolysis, we find that the conformational ensemble of the H3 tail is regulated by nucleosome composition. As has been found for the nucleosome, the H3 tails bind robustly to DNA within the hexasome and tetrasome, but upon loss of the H2A/H2B dimer, we determined that the adjacent H3 tail has an altered conformational ensemble, increase in dynamics, and increase in accessibility. Similar to observations of DNA dynamics, this is seen to be asymmetric in the hexasome. Our results indicate that nucleosome composition has the potential to regulate chromatin signaling and ultimately help shape the chromatin landscape.
HIV-Related Stigma Among People Living With HIV in Iran: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Moradzadeh Rahmatollah , Zamanian Maryam 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
HIV is perceived as a taboo topic in Iranian culture. This study examined HIV-related stigma among Iranian people living with HIV (PLWH). This cross-sectional study was conducted among 123 PLWH in 2019. HIV-related stigma was assessed by a standardized questionnaire adapted into Persian for this study. The range of the stigma scores for each of the subscales (personalized stigma, negative self-image, disclosure concerns, and concerns about public attitudes) was 3–12, whereas the range for the total stigma score was 12–48. The highest and lowest mean scores were observed in concerns about public attitudes (10.07) and negative self-image (7.39). The total mean stigma score was 37.03, indicating a high level of stigma. The most important factors determining HIV-related stigma were socioeconomic status, transmission method, duration of disease, and education level. This study suggests the need for more effective interventions to reduce HIV-related stigma among Iranian PLWH.
Impact of Hearing Rehabilitation Using Cochlear Implants on Cognitive Function in Older Patients
Authors: Issing Christian , Baumann Uwe , Pantel Johannes , Stöver Timo 
Published: March 2021

Objective:
To assess the effects of hearing rehabilitation with cochlear implants on a subset of cognitive domains in older patients (≥65 yr).

Study Design:
Prospective observational study.

Setting:
Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Goethe-University Frankfurt/Main.

Patients:
Patients aged between 65 and 86 years who have received unilateral cochlear implant (CI) therapy.

Intervention:
Unilateral cochlear implantation.

Main Outcome Measures:
The dementia screening test (DemTect) and the trail making test (TMT) were carried out on three occasions: previous to the surgery, at the initial fitting (about 1 month after surgery) and 6 months after surgery.

Results:
The average overall score on the DemTect scale increased significantly within 6 months of CI treatment (p = 0.049), with verbal aspects improving particularly markedly. The results of the trail making test showed that within 6 months of CI treatment, processing speed increased significantly (TMT A: p = 0.003; TMT B: p = 0.001).

Conclusion:
A pre-post comparison showed that aural rehabilitation with a CI results in an improvement in cognitive subdomains. Further comprehensive randomized-controlled studies may be necessary to evaluate possible confounding variables and to assess long-term results.
Rural College Students’ Amenability Toward Using At-Home Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Kits
Authors: Hubach Randolph D. , Mahaffey Carlos , Rhoads Kelley , O'Neil Andrew M. , Ernst Campbell , Bui Lynn X. , Hamrick Justin , Giano Zachary 
Published: March 2021

Background
College students residing in rural areas of the United States have limited access to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening programs; yet, have increased rates of infection.

Methods
Students (N = 326), attending a state university located within a rural community, completed an online survey containing open-ended questions that gauged their perceptions and experiences with HIV/STI testing, amenability to at-home testing technology, and preferences for obtaining at-home testing kits. Inductive coding was used to create themes for each open-ended question.

Results
Students encounter a number of perceived barriers to accessing clinical HIV/STI testing venues including cost, utilization of parents' medical insurance, and stigma. Students desired screening paradigms that allow for a greater sense of privacy and the ability to be empowered through self-sampling methods. This includes the use of at-home testing kits, which could be accessed via mail, campus, or the local community. Although students were overwhelmingly amenable to using at-home testing, students discussed concerns with potential user error that could impact testing accuracy.

Conclusions
Study findings suggest the importance of developing less clinically oriented systems of HIV/STI screening, which allow students to choose from an array of screening options. Removing perceived barriers, notably access and privacy concerns, to HIV/STI testing by leveraging at-home testing is one potential method to increase screening uptake among this at-risk population.
Factors Associated With Online Sex Partners Among Gay, Bisexual and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men: Results From a National Survey
Authors: Kachur Rachel E. , Copen Casey E. , Strona F.V. , Bernstein Kyle T. , Furness B.W. , Hogben Matthew 
Published: March 2021

Background
Associations between online sex seeking and increased risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among men who have sex with men (MSM) typically rely on convenience samples. We examined Internet and mobile app use for finding sex partners among a nationally representative sample of MSM.

Methods
We analyzed 2011 to 2017 data from the National Survey of Family Growth, a nationally representative sample of the civilian, non-institutionalized US population (15–44 years). The analytic sample was comprised of men who reported 1 or more same-sex partners in the past year. We also assessed associations between online sex-seeking and STI risk, sexual health care behaviors, and condom use.

Results
Of 13,320 male respondents, 442 (3.0%) reported sex with a man in the past year, of whom 215 (46.3%) had met a partner online. Between MSM who met partners online and those who did not, we found no differences by age, education, race/ethnicity or socioeconomic status. Men who have sex with men with online partners were more likely to identify as gay (68.4% vs 49.5%, P = 0.0124). They also reported more sex partners overall (M = 3.04 vs 1.60, P < 0.0001), and multiple insertive (46.3% vs 8.5%, P < 0.0001) and receptive (33.2% vs 15.4%, P = 0.0055) anal sex partners, in the past year. They were also more likely to receive sexual risk assessments (56.0% vs 40.4%, P = 0.0129), STI testing (57.4% vs 35.3%, P = 0.0002), and STI treatment (17.8% vs 8.7%, P = 0.0152) in the past year. We found no differences in condom use.

Conclusions
Men who have sex with men who report using online sources to find sex partners are more likely than other MSM to report behaviors that increase risk for STI/HIV but are also more likely to engage in behaviors that may mitigate further transmission, such as STI testing.
Health Care Provider Perceptions of Facilitators and Barriers to Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Delivery in Five Countries
Authors: Islam Jessica Y. , Gurbani Arshya , Ramos Silvina , Morgan Karen , Kim Chan Joo , Richter Karin L. , de Sanjose Silvia , Smith Jennifer S. , Vielot Nadja A. 
Published: March 2021

Background
National human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programs could reduce global cervical cancer morbidity and mortality with support from health care providers. We assessed providers' perceptions of HPV vaccination in 5 countries.

Methods
We identified providers from 5 countries where national HPV vaccination programs were at various stages of implementation: Argentina, Malaysia, South Africa, South Korea, and Spain. Providers authorized to administer adolescent vaccines completed an in-depth survey, reporting perceptions of barriers and facilitators to initiating and completing HPV vaccination, and logistical challenges to HPV vaccination.

Results
Among 151 providers, common barriers to HPV vaccination initiation across all countries were parents' lack of awareness (39%), concerns about vaccine safety or efficacy (33%), and cost to patients (30%). Vaccination education campaign (70%) was the most commonly cited facilitator of HPV vaccination initiation. Common barriers to series completion included no reminder system or dosing schedule (37%), loss to follow-up or forgetting appointment (29%), and cost to patients (25%). Cited facilitators to completing the vaccine series were education campaigns (45%), affordable vaccination (32%), and reminder/recall systems (22%). Among all countries, high cost of vaccination was the most common logistical challenge to offering vaccination to adolescents (33%).

Conclusions
Incorporating provider insights into future HPV vaccination programs could accelerate vaccine delivery to increase HPV vaccination rates globally.
Rising Syphilis Rates During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Stanford Kimberly A. , Almirol Ellen , Schneider John , Hazra Aniruddha 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on syphilis rates is unknown. A retrospective chart review was performed of all patients screened for syphilis through universal screening in a large, urban emergency department from June 2019 to June 2020. During the early pandemic (April through June 2020), screening rates remained similar, but the rate of presumed active infection increased from 1.2% to 1.8% (prevalence ratio, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.17–2.00; P < 0.01), with significant increases among adolescents and women. Only 19.2% of patients with presumed active infection presented for STI-related complaints. Universal screening represents a valuable tool for achieving syphilis control within high-prevalence communities.
The Use of Intracranial Vessel Wall Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Detect a Presumptive Syphilitic Brain Aneurysm
Authors: Askar Wajih , Nadeem Iram , Dalby Jessica , Hunter Paul , Kuchinsky Genevieve , Wolfe Thomas , Stoner Bradley 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Syphilitic intracranial aneurysm is a rare presentation of meningovascular syphilis in developed countries. In this case report, we discuss the utilization of the intracranial vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging in the management of a patient with a rare fusiform brain aneurysm, positive syphilis serologies, and inconclusive cerebrospinal fluid findings.
Superiority of NaF PET/CT Over Chest CT in a Case of Osteosarcoma
Authors: Morland David , Godard François , Lalire Paul , Eymard Jean-Christophe , Papathanassiou Dimitri 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
We report the case of a 21-year-old man referred to our institution for the initial staging of an osteoblastic osteosarcoma of the right femur. An 18F-NaF PET/CT demonstrated millimetric pleuroparenchymal metastases, later confirmed on follow-up. These lesions were not reported on both dedicated chest CT and 18F-FDG PET/CT.
False-Positive 68Ga–Fibroblast Activation Protein-Specific Inhibitor Uptake of Benign Lymphoid Tissue in a Patient With Breast Cancer
Authors: Gündoğan Cihan , Güzel Yunus , Can Canan , Alabalik Ulaş , Kömek Halil 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

68Ga-fibroblast activation protein-specific inhibitor (FAPI)-04 PET/CT was performed in a patient with left lower outer quadrant breast cancer who had 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging. 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT showed higher accumulation of radiotracer in primary tumor and axillary lymph nodes than 18F-FDG PET/CT. In addition, focal increased FAPI uptake was observed in another nodular lesion in the lower inner quadrant in the same breast, which was considered malignant. However, Tru-Cut biopsy of this lesion was reported as benign lymphoid tissue. This case showed that all FAPI accumulation in breast tissue should not be interpreted in favor of malignancy; histopathological confirmation is required.
Papillary Urothelial Carcinoma of Urinary Bladder Identified on 18F-Fluciclovine PET/CT
Authors: Meka Vamsi Mohan , Wankhar Baphiralyne , Ojili Vijayanadh , Batchala Prem P. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

18F-fluciclovine is a radiolabeled synthetic amino acid recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for evaluating recurrent prostate cancer. Upregulated amino acid transporters in prostate cancer cells result in elevated radiotracer uptake in sites of tumor recurrence. However, 18F-fluciclovine is not specific for prostate cancer. Nonprostatic malignancies and benign conditions can also demonstrate uptake. This information combined with the knowledge about common patterns of prostate cancer recurrence helps guide appropriate management. We present an 87-year-old man with biochemical recurrence for prostate cancer but found to have a urinary bladder wall mass on 18F-fluciclovine PET/CT with moderate avidity. Biopsy revealed papillary urothelial carcinoma.
International attitudes on COVID-19 vaccination: repeat national cross-sectional surveys across 15 countries
Authors: Crespo Roberto Fernandez , Shafat Manar , Melas-Kyriazi Natalie , Gould Lisa , Jones Sarah , Neves Ana Luisa , Leis Melanie S , Maheswaran Hendramoorthy , Darzi Ara 
Published: March 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo examine the general public’s views around willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccines and concerns regarding their safety.DesignRepeat cross-sectional surveys.SettingOnline surveys in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the United KingdomParticipantsNational samples of adults aged >=18 years in November 2020 and January 2021.Main outcomes measuresThe proportion of adults reporting: willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccination; concern regarding side-effects from vaccinations; concerns over contraction COVID-19, and beliefs around vaccine provision in their country. Changes between the November and January surveys are also reported.ResultsAcross the 15 countries, the proportion of respondents reporting they would have the COVID-19 vaccine increased from 40.7% (range: 25.0-55.1) to 55.2% (range: 34.8-77.5), proportion reporting worried about the side-effects of vaccine decreased from 53.3% (range: 42.1-66.7) to 47.9% (range: 28.0-66.1). On the second survey, willingness to receive vaccine remained low in females (49.4%, range: 30.2-79.1), aged 18-39 years (42.1%, range: 25.9-71.7), those not working or unemployed (48.9, range: 18.8-67.0), students (45.9%, range: 22.8-70.0), and those with children at home (46.5%, range: 32.4-68.9). Concerns regarding safety of vaccine remained high in females (53.7%, range: 31.8-70.4), aged 18-39 years (50.8%, range: 28.2-60.7), aged 40-64 years (51.3%, range: 30.7-68.5), those working (50.5%, range: 26.7-65.0), those not working or unemployed (53.3, range: 35.4-73.8) and those with children at home (55.8%, range: 36.5-64.7).ConclusionCOVID-19 vaccine hesitancy decreased considerably over a relatively short time coinciding with the discovery of effective vaccines. The public remain concerned about their safety, and public health messaging will need to emphasis their safety especially amongst females, parents and younger adults.
Depressive Symptoms and Negative Experiences in School: A Network Analysis
Authors: Huang Yi , Macek Petr , Lu Jinjin 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDSNegative experiences in school predict youth’s depression. However, the dynamic interactions of depressive symptoms with adolescents’ negative experiences in school remain unclear. This study aimed to applied network analysis to detect the complex relationships between early adolescents’ depressive symptoms and negative experiences in school.METHODSWe adopted the data from a Chinese national survey conducted in 2018. Eight hundred ninety-seven adolescents from 10 to 15 years old were included. The measurements included an 8-item depression screener scale and a 14-item scale assessing negative experiences in school.RESULTSThe centrality analysis suggested that Chinese adolescents’ core depressive symptoms were negative affections and negative cognition that “ I felt that everything I did was an effort. “ Regarding “negative experiences in the school,” the most central nodes were poor academic performance and peer relationships. The bridge-centrality results showed negative emotions in school and difficulties in peer relationships were significantly linked to depression.CONCLUSIONNegative emotional experiences in school and peer relationships were the two most important factors linked to depression.
“Monozygotic twins discordant for severe clinical recurrence of COVID-19 show drastically distinct T cell responses to SARS-Cov-2”
Authors: Castro Mateus V. de , Santos Keity S. , Apostolico Juliana S. , Fernandes Edgar R. , Almeida Rafael R. , Levin Gabriel , Magawa Jhosiene Y. , S. Nunes João Paulo , Bruni Miriam , Yamamoto Marcio M. , Lima Ariane C. , Silva Monize V. R. , Matos Larissa R. B. , Coria Vivian R. , Castelli Erick C. , Scliar Marilia O. , Kuramoto Andreia , Bruno Fernanda R. , Jacintho Lucas C. , Nunes Kelly , Wang Jaqueline Y. T. , Coelho Veronica P. , Neto Miguel Mitne , Maciel Rui M. B. , Naslavsky Michel S. , Passos-Bueno Maria Rita , Boscardin Silvia B. , Rosa Daniela S. , Kalil Jorge , Zatz Mayana , Cunha-Neto Edecio 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACTBackgroundClinical recurrence of COVID-19 in convalescent patients has been reported, which immune mechanisms have not been thoroughly investigated. Presence of neutralizing antibodies suggests other types of immune response are involved.MethodsWe assessed the innate type I/III IFN response, T cell responses to SARS-CoV-2 with IFNγ ELISPOT, binding and neutralizing antibody assays, in two monozygotic twin pairs with one COVID-19 recurrence case.ResultsIn pair 1, four months after a first mild episode of infection for both siblings, one displayed severe clinical recurrence of COVID-19. Twin pair 2 of siblings underwent non-recurring asymptomatic infection. All fours individuals presented similar overall responses, except for remarkably difference found in specific cellular responses. Recurring sibling presented a reduced number of recognized T cell epitopes as compared to the other three including her non-recurring sibling.ConclusionsOur results suggest that an effective SARS-CoV-2-specific T cell immune response is key for complete viral control and avoidance of clinical recurrence of COVID-19. Besides, adaptive immunity can be distinct in MZ twins. Given the rising concern about SARS-CoV-2 variants that evade neutralizing antibodies elicited by vaccination or infection, our study stresses the importance of T cell responses in protection against recurrence/reinfection.Key pointsImmune parameters leading to COVID-19 recurrence/reinfection are incompletely understood. A COVID-19 recurrence case in a monozygotic twin pair is described with an intact antibody and innate type I/III Interferon response and drastically reduced number of recognized SARS-CoV-2 T cell epitopes.
Perceptions on undertaking regular asymptomatic self-testing for COVID-19 using lateral flow tests: A qualitative study of university students and staff
Authors: Wanat Marta , Logan Mary , Hirst Jennifer , Vicary Charles , Lee Joseph Jonathan , Perera Rafael , Tracey Irene , Duff Gordon , Tuffano Peter , Fanshawe Thomas R. , Mwandigha Lazaro , Nicholson Brian D. , Tonkin-Crine Sarah , Hobbs Richard 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundThere has been an increased interest from governments in implementing mass testing for COVID-19 of asymptomatic individuals using Lateral Flow Tests (LFTs). Successful implementation of such programmes depends on several factors, including feasibility, acceptability and how people act on test results. There is a paucity of studies examining these issues.ObjectiveWe aimed to examine experiences of university students and staff with experience of regular asymptomatic self-testing using LFTs, and their subsequent behaviours.MethodsWe invited people who were participating in a ‘weekly testing’ feasibility study. We conducted semi-structured remote interviews between December 2020 and January 2021. Additional qualitative data from a survey were also analysed. Data were analysed thematically.ResultsWe interviewed 18 and surveyed 214 participants. Participants were motivated to regularly self-test as they wanted to know whether or not they were infected with SARS-CoV-2. Most reported that a negative test result did not change their behaviour but it did provide them with reassurance to engage with permitted activities. In contrast, some participants reported making decisions about visiting other people when they would not have done so otherwise, because they felt reassured by a negative test result. Participants valued the test training but some participants still doubted their ability to carry out the test. Participants were concerned about safety of attending test sites with lots of people and reported home testing was most convenient.ConclusionsIf governments want to increase uptake of LFT use, clear messages highlighting the benefits of regular testing for family, friends and society in identifying asymptomatic cases are needed. This should be coupled with transparent communication about accuracy of LFTs and how to act on either a positive or negative result. Concerns about safety, convenience of testing, and ability to do tests need to be addressed to ensure successful scaling up asymptomatic testing.