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Gloeocapsopsis dulcis strain AAB1 is an extremely xerotolerant cyanobacterium isolated from the Atacama Desert (i.e., the driest and oldest desert on Earth) that holds astrobiological significance due to its ability to biosynthesize compatible solutes at ultra-low water activities. We sequenced and assembled the G. dulcis genome de novo using a combination of long- and short-read sequencing, which resulted in high-quality consensus sequences of the chromosome and two plasmids. We leveraged the G. dulcis genome to generate a genome-scale metabolic model (iGd895) to simulate growth in silico. iGd895 represents, to our knowledge, the first genome-scale metabolic reconstruction developed for an extremely xerotolerant cyanobacterium. The model's predictive capability was assessed by comparing the in silico growth rate with in vitro growth rates of G. dulcis, in addition to the synthesis of trehalose. iGd895 allowed us to explore simulations of key metabolic processes such as essential pathways for water-stress tolerance, and significant alterations to reaction flux distribution and metabolic network reorganization resulting from water limitation. Our study provides insights into the potential metabolic strategies employed by G. dulcis, emphasizing the crucial roles of compatible solutes, metabolic water, energy conservation, and the precise regulation of reaction rates in their adaptation to water stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gloeocapsopsis dulcis strain AAB1 is an extremely xerotolerant cyanobacterium isolated from the Atacama Desert (i.e., the driest and oldest desert on Earth) that holds astrobiological significance due to its ability to biosynthesize compatible solutes at ultra-low water activities. We sequenced and assembled the G. dulcis genome de novo using a combination of long- and short-read sequencing, which resulted in high-quality consensus sequences of the chromosome and two plasmids. We leveraged the G. dulcis genome to generate a genome-scale metabolic model (iGd895) to simulate growth in silico. iGd895 represents, to our knowledge, the first genome-scale metabolic reconstruction developed for an extremely xerotolerant cyanobacterium. The model's predictive capability was assessed by comparing the in silico growth rate with in vitro growth rates of G. dulcis, in addition to the synthesis of trehalose. iGd895 allowed us to explore simulations of key metabolic processes such as essential pathways for water-stress tolerance, and significant alterations to reaction flux distribution and metabolic network reorganization resulting from water limitation. Our study provides insights into the potential metabolic strategies employed by G. dulcis, emphasizing the crucial roles of compatible solutes, metabolic water, energy conservation, and the precise regulation of reaction rates in their adaptation to water stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecosystem engineers modify instream habitat to the benefit or detriment of other species. Nocomis leptocephalus (Bluehead Chub) is a widespread minnow (Actinopterygii: Leuciscidae) native to small- to medium-sized streams in the Atlantic slope of the southeastern United States. By constructing large gravel-mound nests in pools for spawning, Bluehead Chubs are common ecosystem engineers that transport and concentrate gravel to form unique structures on the benthoscape. These nests are occupied by a diversity of benthic taxa and can persist up to 6 months before being destroyed by winter floods. In this study, we surveyed benthic assemblages occurring on chub nests and a similar volume of paired ambient substrate, and identified individuals to the genus or family level. Mixed-effects models indicated that overall counts, taxa richness, and Shannon diversity of benthic assemblages were similar between nests and ambient substrate. However, canonical correspondence analysis revealed differences in taxonomic composition between nests and ambient substrate. Several riffle-associated taxa occurred uniquely in chub nests, while many other taxa were found only in paired samples. Understanding the temporal and spatial scales at which the chub nest-insect interaction is relevant will be important for identifying the role of ecosystem engineering by chubs for structuring benthic assemblages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have identified regions where the occurrence of rainfall significantly increases or decreases the probability for subsequent rainfall over periods that range from a few days to several weeks. These observable phenomena are termed "rainfall feedback" (RF). To better understand the land--atmosphere interactions involved in RF, the behavior of RF patterns was analyzed using data from 1849 to 2016 at ~3000 sites in the contiguous United States. We also considered changes in major land-use types and applied a geographically weighted regression model technique for analyzing the predictors of RF. This approach identified non-linear and spatially nonstationary relationships between RF, climate, land use, and land type. RF patterns in certain regions of the United States are predictable by modeling variables associated with climate, season, and land use. The model outputs also demonstrate the extent to which the effect of precipitation, temperature, and land use on RF depend on season and location. Specifically, major changes were observed for land use associated with agriculture in the western United States, which had negative and positive influences on RF in summer and winter, respectively. In contrast, developed land in the eastern United States correlated with positive RF values in summer but with negative ones in winter. We discuss how changes in climate and land use would be expected to affect land-- atmosphere interactions, as well as the possible role that physical mechanisms and rain-enhanced bioaerosol emissions may play in the spatiotemporal changes observed for historical patterns of rainfall frequency in the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The JAK/STAT pathway is an essential signalling cascade required for multiple processes during development and for adult homeostasis. A key question in understanding this pathway is how it is regulated in different cell contexts. Here, we have examined how endocytic processing contributes to signalling by the single cytokine receptor in Drosophila melanogaster cells, Domeless. We identify an evolutionarily conserved di-leucine (di-Leu) motif that is required for Domeless internalisation and show that endocytosis is required for activation of a subset of Domeless targets. Our data indicate that endocytosis both qualitatively and quantitatively regulates Domeless signalling. STAT92E, the single STAT transcription factor in Drosophila, appears to be the target of endocytic regulation, and our studies show that phosphorylation of STAT92E on Tyr704, although necessary, is not always sufficient for target transcription. Finally, we identify a conserved residue, Thr702, which is essential for Tyr704 phosphorylation. Taken together, our findings identify previously unknown aspects of JAK/STAT pathway regulation likely to play key roles in the spatial and temporal regulation of signalling in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) Adult Burns Unit (ABU) often operates in excess of its capacity. Our aim was to investigate the risk factor profile of the ABU population and to apply the Baux score as a model for predicting mortality to assist with appropriate resource allocation. In this retrospective study, the Baux score was calibrated to the mortality rates in ABU burn population and the effects of various variables on mortality were assessed with Mann-Whitney U -test, chi-square test, and regression analysis. The relationship between the Baux score and mortality rate was characterized by this regression equation: y = −0.0002×3 + 0.0547×2 - 2.5815× + 32.649, which was used to tabulate expected mortalities per Baux score band. Univariable regression analysis revealed that Baux score, gender, suspected inhalation injury, mechanism, and intent each had statistically significant associations with mortality (P -values <0.05), whereas the multivariable model showed that only Baux score, gender, and suspected inhalation injury were statistically significant factors in predicting mortality. An increase in the Baux score is the most predictive and statistically significant risk factor and is easy to calculate. Thus, expected mortality can be determined using the Baux score band versus mortality table created in this study to assist with prioritizing patients in a resource-limited environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burn patients are at high risk of infection, and as sepsis contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality, early diagnosis is essential. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a biomarker released in response to inflammation and specifically bacterial infection. This study aimed to determine the value of PCT as a diagnostic biomarker of sepsis in burns patients in Johannesburg, South Africa. All adult patients admitted to two burns intensive care units in Johannesburg over a 3-year study period were included in a retrospective data review. Records of 178 patients were accessible and reviewed. The most significant risk factor for sepsis was percentage total body surface area burned (P = 0.012). A rise in PCT was a significant biomarker for bacterial infection in the early phase after a burn (P = 0.03) but not after day eight. PCT correlated with C-reactive protein as a biomarker for sepsis (P < 0.001), but not with other biomarkers. The mean PCT in patients who died was significantly higher on every study day until death compared with those who remained alive (P < 0.02, consistently). Patients on inotropes also had a significantly increased PCT level (P = 0.0001), as did those who were not discharged from intensive care unit by day 14. PCT may be useful as an adjunct biomarker of infection in burn patients and has potential as a predictive biomarker of early discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Unveiling metabolic pathways involved in the extreme desiccation tolerance of an Atacama cyanobacterium" published in Scientific Reports. The correction addresses an incomplete Acknowledgements section in the original article. The correction adds the European Research Council Grant as a source of support for one of the authors. The original article has been corrected. The authors of the article are Rachel A. Moore, Armando Azua-Bustos, Carlos González-Silva, and Christopher E. Carr. [Extracted from the article]

M. abscessus persisted for over two weeks in Dead Sea brine and staphylococcal organisms were able to survive from three to 11 days. The uniqueness of the Dead Sea's chemical composition, particularly its extremely high salinity, eventually leads to the destruction of M. abscessus and S. aureus, including MRSA organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infertility is a worldwide problem that affects many individuals. As men and women age, the likelihood of conception begins to decline, resulting in an increased prevalence of infertility. Treatments of infertility focus on biological interventions. Those that continue to struggle with infertility may also seek mental health treatment. Men and women in midlife may experience a struggle between generativity and stagnation, often including the struggle between parenthood and childlessness. Narrative therapy is a mental health theory that emphasizes examining sociopolitical stories influencing clients and deconstructing these discourses. Possible therapeutic interventions are explored to bring about subjugated stories to increase generativity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual addiction is described as a pathological relationship with sexual behaviors. Similar to addictions to substances, sexual addiction is commonly associated with dependency, tolerance, and withdrawal. The treatment of sexual addiction within the romantic couple relationship is significantly absent from existing literature. The presence of sexual addiction in a romantic relationship can result in lack of trust, feelings of shame, anger or betrayal, and ultimately the deterioration of the relationship. Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is a couples therapy modality in which both partners are validated and helped by the therapist to develop a secure attachment to one another. This theoretical treatment model addresses recovery from a sexual addiction within the couple relationship through the incorporation of empirically validated addictions literature and EFT techniques. Both partners simultaneously participate in the modified steps of EFT treatment to address underlying needs of each partner. The therapist facilitates the couple's expression of emotions and interaction cycles. The goal of this theoretical model is for the couple to develop a secure attachment to one another and to improve resilient coping within the relationship in order to reduce or eliminate the sexually addictive behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Summary We demonstrate the utility of the phytochrome system to rapidly and reversibly recruit proteins to specific subcellular regions within specific cells in a living vertebrate embryo. Light-induced heterodimerization using the phytochrome system has previously been used as a powerful tool to dissect signaling pathways for single cells in culture but has not previously been used to reversibly manipulate the precise subcellular location of proteins in multicellular organisms. Here we report the experimental conditions necessary to use this system to manipulate proteins in vivo. As proof of principle, we demonstrate that we can manipulate the localization of the apical polarity protein Pard3 with high temporal and spatial precision in both the neural tube and the embryo’s enveloping layer epithelium. Our optimizations of optogenetic component expression and chromophore purification and delivery should significantly lower the barrier for establishing this powerful optogenetic system in other multicellular organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The TNT1 C-terminal domain of cTnT is highly conserved across species. [•] HCM mutations at residues 160 and 163 impair the weak binding step of activation. [•] Mice carrying the Δ160E or E163R mutations exhibit sarcomeric disruption. [•] Normal sarcomere assembly and function requires intact actomyosin weak binding. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Unfamiliar face matching is the process of simultaneously verifying the equivalence of two faces. Accuracy within this task is crucial given its importance and prevalence in security domains. However, research has consistently demonstrated that unfamiliar face matching is error prone, suggesting the need for improvement techniques. Motivational incentives have been shown to reliably enhance performance on a wide array of cognitive tasks. Therefore, the current study examined the effect of motivational incentives on unfamiliar face matching. Experiment 1 showed increased accuracy in mismatch trials with the addition of a motivational incentive. The improvement was associated with an increase in reaction time and bias towards making a mismatch response. This bias, however, did not produce a decrease in accuracy on match trials. Experiment 2 replicated this result with a more ecologically valid methodology. The results suggest motivational incentives to be effective at improving performance on mismatch trials, arguably the most important aspect of real-world unfamiliar face matching. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a primary disease of the cardiac muscle, and one of the most common causes of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young people. Many mutations in cardiac troponin T (cTnT) lead to a complex form of HCM with varying degrees of ventricular hypertrophy and ~65% of all cTnT mutations occur within or flanking the elongated N-terminal TNT1 domain. Biophysical studies have predicted that distal TNT1 mutations, including Δ160E, cause disease by a novel, yet unknown mechanism as compared to N-terminal mutations. To begin to address the specific effects of this commonly observed cTnT mutation we generated two independent transgenic mouse lines carrying variant doses of the mutant transgene. Hearts from the 30% and 70% cTnT Δ160E lines demonstrated a highly unique, dose-dependent disruption in cellular and sarcomeric architecture and a highly progressive pattern of ventricular remodeling. While adult ventricular myocytes isolated from Δ160E transgenic mice exhibited dosage-independent mechanical impairments, decreased sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium load and SERCA2a calcium uptake activity, the observed decreases in calcium transients were dosage-dependent. The latter findings were concordant with measures of calcium regulatory protein abundance and phosphorylation state. Finally, studies of whole heart physiology in the isovolumic mode demonstrated dose-dependent differences in the degree of cardiac dysfunction. We conclude that the observed clinical severity of the cTnT Δ160E mutation is caused by a combination of direct sarcomeric disruption coupled to a profound dysregulation of Ca2+ homeostasis at the cellular level that results in a unique and highly progressive pattern of ventricular remodeling. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled “Calcium Signaling in Heart”. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is important in the winemaking process as it aids in preventing microbial growth and the oxidation of wine. These processes and others consume the SO2 over time, resulting in wines with little SO2 protection. Furthermore, SO2 and sulfiting agents are known to be allergens to many individuals and for that reason their levels need to be monitored and regulated in final wine products. Many of the current techniques for monitoring SO2 in wine require the SO2 to be separated from the wine prior to analysis. This investigation demonstrates a technique capable of measuring free sulfite concentrations in low volume liquid samples in white wine. This approach adapts a known colorimetric reaction to a suspended core optical fiber sensing platform, and exploits the interaction between guided light located within the fiber voids and a mixture of the wine sample and a colorimetric analyte. We have shown that this technique enables measurements to be made without dilution of the wine samples, thus paving the way towards real time in situ wine monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The function of holocytochrome c synthase (HCCS, also called heme lyase) is to attach covalently the heme cofactor to cytochromes c in the mitochondria of animals, fungi and protozoa. Little is known about how the protein functions but CP motifs, commonly found in heme-binding proteins, are present. Here we examine holocytochrome c production by Saccharomyces cerevisiae HCCS in the Escherichia coli cytoplasm with emphasis on the conserved CP motifs long implicated in heme transfer by this enzyme. Unexpectedly, the two motifs, both towards the N-terminus, were not required for activity. Mutations in HCCS on the C-terminal side of the CP motifs, known to cause disease states in humans (microphthalmia with linear skin defects) abolished or drastically attenuated holocytochrome c production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article focuses on the reexamination of the second or subsequent conviction language of the firearm possession sentencing statute in the U.S. It outlines the passage of the statute as well as its application before and in the Supreme Court case Deal v. United States. It evaluates the decision for the case and its criticism which analyzes its interpretation and implications.

A new genus and species of synziphosurine (Chelicerata) is described from the Silurian (Wenlock) Scotch Grove Formation Konservat-Lagerstätte in Clinton County, Iowa. Camanchia grovensis n. gen. n. sp. is characterized by a sub-triangular carapace, ten opisthosomal segments divided into a preabdomen of seven and a postabdomen of three, and a tuberculate ornament on the carapace and pleural margins. A single new specimen from the same location is assigned to Venustulus waukeshaensis, originally described from the Late Llandovery Waukesha Konservat-Lagerstätte of Wisconsin. A comparison of the musculature of C. grovensis with that of living Limulus polyphemus and the Jurassic Mesolimulus walchi from Nusplingen, Germany shows that it is much simpler, consistent with the status of synziphosurines as stem xiphosurids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Early–Middle Cambrian Pioche Shale of Lincoln County, Nevada preserves a diverse array of soft-bodied ecdysozoans that are well-known from the Burgess Shale soft-bodied fauna of British Columbia, Canada. At Pioche certain genera occur both above and below the Middle Cambrian boundary, allowing a comparison of the nature of their preservation across this interval. In order to investigate the mineralization of this fauna, SEM analysis of mineral textures and element mapping of Anomalocaris, Tuzoia and Canadaspis specimens using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was undertaken. Results of these analyses show that Early Cambrian specimens are generally preserved in botryoidal hematite which is dark red in hand specimen while specimens from the Middle Cambrian are preserved as kerogenized carbon films with associated oxidized pyrite crystals and framboids. Comparison with other Cambrian soft-bodied biotas reveals that the nature of preservation of the Middle Cambrian biota at Pioche is remarkably similar to that described for the Chengjiang soft-bodied fauna, China. There does not seem to be an adequate analogue for the Early Cambrian preservation of soft-bodied organisms at Pioche. The preservation of the fauna is discussed in relation to changing environmental conditions at the Early–Middle Cambrian boundary. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A new synziphosurine, Anderella parva gen. et sp. nov., extends the known range of this group from the Silurian to the Carboniferous and is the youngest known so far from the fossil record. Previously the youngest synziphosurine, Kasibelinurus, was from the Devonian of North America. Anderella parva has a semi-oval carapace with pointed genal regions, nine freely articulating opisthosomal segments and a long styliform tail spine. It is the third xiphosuran genus to be described from the Bear Gulch Limestone and its discovery highlights this deposit as containing an unusually diverse xiphosuran biota. It is also the only known locality where synziphosurines occur alongside the more derived xiphosurids. Xiphosurans reached their greatest diversity in the Carboniferous when the xiphosurids began to occupy brackish and freshwater habitats and became dominant over the synziphosurines. The discovery of the only known Carboniferous synziphosurine in marine sediments may indicate their inability to exploit these same environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describes the characteristics of the putative arthropod Lemoneites. Classification of Lemoneites within the chelicerate stem group order Aglaspidida; Implications of the mode of preservation of Lemoneites for the interpretation of its anatomy; Features and species of Lemoneites.

A new synziphosurine (Chelicerata:Xiphosura) is described from the Late Llandovery (Silurian) Konservat-Lagerstätte of Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA. Venustulus waukeshaensis n.gen. and sp. is characterized by a semicircular carapace with a slightly procurved posterior margin lacking genal spines and an opisthosoma composed of 10 freely articulating segments, divided into a preabdomen of seven segments with blunt pleurae and a postabdomen of three segments lacking pleurae. The tail spine is short and styliform. This is the earliest known unequivocal synziphosurine, extending their fossil record from the Wenlock to the Llandovery, and only the second species to be described with prosomal appendages; the presence of six pairs (a pair of chelicerae and five pairs of walking legs) contrasts with the seven in the synziphosurine Weinbergina opitzi, but is comparable to the number in modem horseshoe crabs. V. waukeshaensis n. gen. and sp. is not assigned to a family here pending a wider revision, but it bears most resemblance to the Weinberginidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methods for making rapid and accurate measurements and maps of the transverse relaxation time from a single free induction decay (FID) are proposed. The methods use a multi-echo sequence in combination with B1 insensitive (hyperbolic secant or BIREF2b) refocusing pulses and rapid echo-planar imaging techniques. The results were calibrated against a single spin echo echo-planar imaging sequence using a phantom containing a range of CuSO4 concentrations. The mean percentage absolute difference between the multi-echo and single-echo results was 3% for the multi-echo sequence using the hyperbolic secant refocusing pulse, and 7% for the multi-echo sequence using the BIREF2b refocusing pulse, compared to 13% for a multi-echo sequence using a nonselective sinc refocusing pulse. The use of the sequences in vivo has been demonstrated in studies of gastric function, i.e., the measurement of gastric dilution and monitoring of formation of a raft of alginate polysaccharide within the stomach. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

: Objectives(1) To investigate a possible association between myometrial and placental artery vasoreactivity and perfusion at the basal and chorionic plates, respectively. (2) To confirm that myometrial arteries from women with pre-eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction exhibit an attenuated endothelium-dependent vasodilatory response.: MethodsWomen with normal pregnancy, pre-eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction had a magnetic resonance scan to assess placental perfusion using a technique called intravoxel incoherent motion. At delivery, myometrial and chorionic plate placental arteries were assessed on a wire myograph. Vessels were pre-constricted with the thromboxane mimetic U46619 and dilated with incremental doses of bradykinin.: ResultsPre-constricted myometrial arteries from women with pre-eclampsia or intrauterine growth restriction exhibited an attenuated vasodilatory response to bradykinin, compared with normal pregnancy (P < 0.0001). Pre-constricted placental arteries exhibited a minimal vasodilatory response in all three groups of women (P = 0.10). Maximal constrictor and vasodilatory responses of myometrial arteries were not associated with the perfusing fraction at the basal plate. Maximal constrictor and vasodilatory responses of chorionic plate placental arteries were not associated with the perfusing fraction at the chorionic plate.: ConclusionWe confirm that myometrial arteries from women with pre-eclampsia or intrauterine growth restriction exhibit an attenuated endothelium-dependent vasodilatory response. Apart from vasoreactivity of small arteries, other factors may be involved in the control of placental perfusion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Normal growth and morphogenesis of the cranial vault reflect a balance between cell proliferation in the sutures and osteogenesis at the margins of the cranial bones. In the clinical condition craniosynostosis, the sutures fuse prematurely as a result of precocious osteogenic differentiation and craniofacial malformation results. Mutations in several fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) genes have now been identified as being responsible for the major craniosynostotic syndromes. We have used a grafting technique to manipulate the levels of endogenous FGF-2 ligand in embryonic chick cranial vaults and thereby perturb morphogenesis. Implantation of beads loaded with FGF-2 did not affect normal cranial development at physiological concentrations, although they elicited a morphogenetic response in the limb. Implantation of beads loaded with a neutralising antibody to FGF-2 generated a concentration-dependent response. When a single bead was implanted, the grafts grew to a massive size as a result of increased cell division in the tissue. With greater inactivation of FGF-2 protein (two to three beads implanted), all further bone differentiation and cell proliferation was blocked. These data further support the emerging idea that the intensity of FGF-mediated signalling determines the developmental fate of the skeletogenic cells in the cranial vault. High and low levels correlate with differentiation and proliferation, respectively. A balance between the two ensures normal cranial vault morphogenesis. This is consistent with the observation that several FGFR mutations causing craniosynostosis result in constitutive activation of the receptor. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The COVID−19 pandemic may have uniquely impacted families of children in cancer treatment. Primary caregivers (N = 47) completed validated measures of COVID−19 exposure, impact, and psychosocial distress between July 2020 and January 2021. Caregivers reported several pandemic-related disruptions to daily life (COVID−19 exposure) and a negative impact of the pandemic on caregiver mood (70%) and anxiety (72%). A subset of caregivers reported a positive impact of the pandemic on physical wellbeing and family functioning. Family psychosocial distress was associated with higher COVID−19 exposure but not COVID−19 impact. Results highlight family resilience as well as groups with unmet psychosocial needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assesses children's ability to modify their canonical representations of the human figure. Adaption of drawings to depict the figure's different orientations; Attempts to modify figures.

Background Increasing fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption is associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk in observational studies but with little evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The impact of concurrent pharmacological therapy is unknown. Objective To pool data from six RCTs to examine the effect of increasing FV intake on blood pressure (BP) and lipid profile, also exploring whether effects differed by medication use. Design Across trials, dietary intake was assessed by diet diaries or histories, lipids by routine biochemical methods and BP by automated monitors. Linear regression provided an estimate of the change in lipid profile or BP associated with a one portion increase in self-reported daily FV intake, with interaction terms fitted for medication use. Results The pooled sample included a total of 554 participants (308 males and 246 females). Meta-analysis of regression coefficients revealed no significant change in either systolic or diastolic BP per portion FV increase, although there was significant heterogeneity across trials for systolic BP (I 2 = 73%). Neither adjusting for change in body mass index, nor analysis according to use of anti-hypertensive medication altered the relationship. There was no significant change in lipid profile per portion FV increase, although there was a significant reduction in total cholesterol among those not on lipid-lowering therapy (P  < 0.05 after Bonferroni correction). Conclusion Pooled analysis of six individual FV trials showed no impact of increasing intake on BP or lipids, but there was a total cholesterol-lowering effect in those not on lipid-lowering therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses on Intragastric Balloon in Endoscopic Bariatric Therapy. Topics include fluid-filled intragastric balloons (FF-IGB) have superior weight loss compared with gas-filled balloons (GF-IGB), but this is not supported by the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical literature; and adverse event rates for the US IGBs are not adequately compared including both randomized and crossover subjects.

The processes removing aerosols from the atmosphere during rainfall are generically referred to as scavenging. Scavenging influences aerosol distributions in the atmosphere, with consequent effects on cloud properties, radiative forcing, and human health. In this study, we investigated the below-cloud scavenging process, specifically focusing on the scavenging of 0.2 to 2 µm-sized microbial aerosols by populations of water drops with average diameters of 3.0 and 3.6 mm. Rainfall was simulated in convective boundary layer air masses by dispensing the water drops from a 55 m bridge and collecting them at ground level. Particles and microbial cells scavenged by the water drops were visualized, enumerated, and sized using scanning electron and epifluorescence microscopy. Aerosolized particles and DNA-containing microbial cells of 2 µm diameter were scavenged at efficiencies similar to those reported previously in empirical studies; however, the efficiencies derived for smaller aerosols were significantly higher (one to three orders of magnitude) than those predicted by microphysical modeling. Application of the derived scavenging efficiencies to cell data from rainfall implies that, on average, approximately 50 to 70% of the 1 µm microbial cells in the precipitation originated from within the cloud. Further study of submicron to micron-sized aerosol scavenging over a broader raindrop size distribution would improve fundamental understanding of the scavenging process and the capacity to estimate (bio)aerosol abundances in the source cloud through analysis of rainfall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A new diagnosis of pediatric cancer may disrupt family functioning. The current study aimed to describe changes in family rules and routines during the first year of pediatric cancer treatment, and to explore associations with demographics, illness factors, and caregiver distress. Methods: This exploratory mixed‐methods, cross‐sectional study examined 44 primary caregivers of youth in treatment for a new cancer diagnosis in 2019 and 2020, before the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Caregivers completed validated questionnaires assessing demographic and child illness characteristics, psychosocial distress, and cancer‐related stressors, and participated in a semi‐structured interview about family rules and routines. Results: Caregivers reported changes in bedtime, mealtime, and school routines, relaxed behavioral expectations and rules around screen time, and new rules and routines around treatment, medications, and infection control. Caregivers with elevated levels of psychosocial distress reported more changed routines than caregivers with low levels of psychosocial distress. Caregivers who endorsed more cancer‐related stressors reported more new rules and routines than those who reported fewer cancer‐related stressors. Demographic and illness factors were not significantly associated with the number of changed, new, or stable family rules and routines. Conclusions: Families may relax rules and routines during the first several months of diagnosis, and this may be related to side effects of treatment and limited caregiver capacity. The long‐term impact of changes in family rules and routines during cancer treatment warrants further study given that accommodating parenting strategies have been associated with adverse short‐ and long‐term child health and behavior outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ) young people from religious families are at increased risk of family rejection, poor mental health outcomes, and are overrepresented in mental health services. This article describes a two-part qualitative study aimed at exploring the experiences of LGBQ young adults from religious families in psychotherapy, identifying positive and negative psychotherapy experiences, and understanding the influence of family and religion on the psychotherapy experience. Data were collected through a web-based survey (n = 77) and interviews (n = 7) with LGBQ young adults (ages 18-25) from religious families. The study followed an interpretative phenomenological approach. Integrated results found often invisible, relational therapy processes, and religious discourses as significant to LGBQ young people who seek psychotherapy. Implications for future research, effective systemic family therapy practices with LGBQ young people from religious families, and a critique on ethical and legal limits of confidentiality with policy implications are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning (LGBQ) adolescents are at increased risk of poor mental health due to minority stress, a chronic stress associated discrimination, social rejection, and victimization brought on by prejudicial attitudes towards LGBQ individuals. To improve understanding of the differential impact of various kinds of victimization on mental health outcomes for LGBQ adolescents, we analyzed data from the 2015 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) for victimization and mental health symptom clusters and associations high school youth and compared by sexual orientation and gender. METHODS: Separate Latent Class Analysis (LCA) was conducted to identify profiles of both victimization and mental health symptoms for participants (N = 15,624). Subsequently, stratified weighted logistic regression models were used on an eligible analytic sample of 11,458 to assess differences in the association of victimization and mental health between LGBQ and heterosexual high school students. RESULTS: In each LCA, participants were assigned to one of 3 classes for victimization (minimal, 81.3%; bullying, 12.5%; or physical/sexual violence, 6.2%) and 1 of 2 classes for mental health symptoms (minimal, 81.2%; severe, 18.8%). LGBQ participants were overrepresented in physical/sexual violence and bullying victimization profiles. Both bullying and physical/sexual violence profiles were associated with almost 5 times the odds of endorsing severe mental health symptoms. Conclusions: This study expands our understanding of the relationship between types and effect of peer victimization for LGBQ and heterosexual youth with implications for school health and prevention efforts through increased positive school climate for LGBQ students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study compared transracial adoption (TRA) parents who adopted internationally to those who adopted domestically (total n = 188; domestic n = 71; international n = 117) on multicultural experiences, perception of discrimination, and positive feelings toward racial minority groups, adoption support, and Parental Cultural Competence (PCC). Next a model for predicting PCC for both groups was tested. Results indicated significant differences between the groups based on multicultural experiences, perception of discrimination and positive feelings towards racial minority groups, and degree of available adoption support. Regression models predicting PCC tested with groups combined and separate suggest the significant role of multicultural experiences in predicting PCC for both groups; however, the largest effect of multicultural experiences on PCC was seen for domestic transracially adoptive parents. Discussion of results is considered with implications for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burn injuries are a significant contributor to the burden of diseases. The management of burns at specialised burn centres has been shown to improve survival. However, in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) major burns are managed at non-specialised burn centres due to resource constraints. There is insufficient data on survival from treatment at non-specialised burn centres in LMICs. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of burns treatment between a specialised burn centre and five non-specialised centres. A prospective cohort study was conducted on patients aged 18 years or above from January 1, 2021 to September 30, 2021. Participants were selected from the admission register at the emergency department. All burns irrespective of the mechanism of injury or %TBSA were included. Data were entered into REDCap. Statistical analysis of outcomes such as positive blood culture, length of hospital stay (LOHS) and 90-day mortality between specialised burn versus non-specialised centres was performed. Furthermore, an analysis of risk factors for mortality was performed and survival data computed. Of the 488 study participants, 36% were admitted to a specialised burn centre compared to 64% admitted to non-specialised centres. The demographic characteristics were similar between centres. Patients at the specialised burn centre compared to non-specialised centres had a significantly higher inhalation injury of 30.9% vs 7.7% (p < 0.001), > 10%TBSA at 83.4% vs 45.7% (p < 0.001), > 20%TBSA at 46.9% vs 16.6% (p < 0.001), and a median (IQR) ABSI score of 6 (5−7) vs 5 (4−6) (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, patients from specialised burn vs non-specialised centres had a longer median (IQR) time from injury to first burn excision at 7 (4−11) vs 5 (2−10) days, higher rate of burn sepsis 69% vs 35%, increased LOHS 17 (11−27) vs 12 (6−22) days, and 90-day mortality rates at 19.4% vs 6.4%. After adjusting for cofounding variables, survival data showed no difference between specialised burn and non-specialised centres (HR 1.8 95% CI 1.0–3.2, p = 0.05). Although it appears that the survival of burn patients managed at non-specialised centres in a middle-income country is comparable to those managed at specialised burn centres, there is uncounted bias in our survival data. Hence, a change in practice is not advocated. However, due to resource constraint specialised burn centres in addition to managing major burns should provide training and support to the non-specialised centres. • Over 60% of burns are managed at non-specialised centres in LMICs. • Burn survival at specialised burn centre is comparable to non-specialised centres. • Burn centres should support burn management at non-specialised centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Exercise is associated with altered gut microbial composition, but studies have not investigated whether the gut microbiota and associated metabolites are modulated by exercise training in humans. We explored the impact of 6 wk of endurance exercise on the composition, functional capacity, and metabolic output of the gut microbiota in lean and obese adults with multiple-day dietary controls before outcome variable collection. Methods: Thirty-two lean (n = 18 [9 female]) and obese (n = 14 [11 female]), previously sedentary subjects participated in 6 wk of supervised, endurance-based exercise training (3 d·wk-1) that progressed from 30 to 60 min·d-1 and from moderate (60% of HR reserve) to vigorous intensity (75% HR reserve). Subsequently, participants returned to a sedentary lifestyle activity for a 6-wk washout period. Fecal samples were collected before and after 6 wk of exercise, as well as after the sedentary washout period, with 3-d dietary controls in place before each collection. Results: β-diversity analysis revealed that exercise-induced alterations of the gut microbiota were dependent on obesity status. Exercise increased fecal concentrations of short-chain fatty acids in lean, but not obese, participants. Exercise-induced shifts in metabolic output of the microbiota paralleled changes in bacterial genes and taxa capable of short-chain fatty acid production. Lastly, exercise-induced changes in the microbiota were largely reversed once exercise training ceased. Conclusion: These findings suggest that exercise training induces compositional and functional changes in the human gut microbiota that are dependent on obesity status, independent of diet and contingent on the sustainment of exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is a need for mentoring interventions in which transition-age youth and young adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/ DD) participate as both mentors and mentees. Project TEAM (Teens making Environment and Activity Modifications) is a problem-solving intervention that includes an electronic peer-mentoring component. Methods Forty-two mentees and nine mentors with I/ DD participated. The present authors analysed recorded peer-mentoring calls and field notes for mentee engagement, mentor achievement of objectives and supports needed to implement peer mentoring. Results Overall, mentees attended 87% of scheduled calls and actively engaged during 94% of call objectives. Across all mentoring dyads, mentors achieved 87% of objectives and there was a significant relationship between the use of supports (mentoring script, direct supervision) and fidelity. Conclusions Transition-age mentees with I/ DD can engage in electronic peer mentoring to further practice problem-solving skills. Mentors with I/ DD can implement electronic peer mentoring when trained personnel provide supports and individualized job accommodations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preterm infants are uniquely vulnerable to early toxic stress exposure while in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and also being at risk for suboptimal neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, the complex biological mechanisms responsible for variations in preterm infants' neurodevelopmental outcomes because of early toxic stress exposure in the NICU remain unknown. Innovative preterm behavioral epigenetics research offers a possible mechanism and describes how early toxic stress exposure may lead to epigenetic alterations, potentially affecting short- and long-term outcomes. Objective: The aim of this study was to review the relationships between early toxic stress exposures in the NICU and epigenetic alterations in preterm infants. The measurement of early toxic stress exposure in the NICU and effect of epigenetic alterations on neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants were also examined. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of the literature published between January 2011 and December 2021 using databases PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrance Library, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Primary data-based research that examined epigenetics, stress, and preterm infants or NICU were included. Results: A total of 13 articles from nine studies were included. DNA methylations of six specific genes were studied in relation to early toxic stress exposure in the NICU: SLC6A4, SLC6A3, OPRMI, NR3C1, HSD11B2 , and PLAGL1. These genes are responsible for regulating serotonin, dopamine, and cortisol. Poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes were associated with alterations in DNA methylation of SLC6A4, NR3C1 , and HSD11B2. Measurements of early toxic stress exposure in the NICU were inconsistent among the studies. Discussion: Epigenetic alterations secondary to early toxic stress exposures in the NICU may be associated with future neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants. Common data elements of toxic stress exposure in preterm infants are needed. Identification of the epigenome and mechanisms by which early toxic stress exposure leads to epigenetic alterations in this vulnerable population will provide evidence to design and test individualized intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We conducted this study to compare the weight loss outcome of intragastric balloons (IGBs) in conjunction with pharmacotherapy vs IGB and intensive lifestyle changes alone. Methods: This was a multicenter, non-randomized, retrospective study involving 4 academic hospitals. Patients underwent IGB placement with or without concomitant anti-obesity pharmacotherapy. The primary outcome was percent total weight loss (TBWL) after IGB placement at 6 and 12 months. Results: This study included 102 patients, with 23 patients (mean age 46.6 years, 82.6% female) treated with IGB/pharmacotherapy and 79 patients (mean age 46.0 years, 88.6% female) treated with IGB/lifestyle modifications. Patients had a 100% follow-up rate at 6 and 12 months. At 6 months following IGB placement, both groups achieved a similar %TBWL. At 12 months, %TBWL was greater in the IGB/pharmacotherapy group (12.6% ± 1.2 vs 9.7% ± 0.7, P =.04). 65.2% of patients achieved ≥10% TBWL at 12 months in the IGB/pharmacotherapy group, compared to 38.0% in the IGB/lifestyle group (P <.05). The proportion of patients that achieved ≥15% weight loss at 12 months was also significantly different between the IGB/pharmacotherapy and IGB/lifestyle groups (30.4% vs 20.3%, P <.05). Discussion: IGB with concomitant use of pharmacotherapy did not improve weight loss while the IGB was in place compared to IGB and lifestyle changes. However, patients receiving IGB with pharmacotherapy did have greater weight loss and diminished weight regain after balloon removal compared to those receiving just IGB and lifestyle changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

African Americans are at significantly greater risk for hypertension, as well as worse hypertension-related morbidity and mortality than other racial/ethnic groups. Prior research aiming to address these health disparities has focused on improving individual patient self-management, with few studies testing family-centered interventions. We aimed to explore the perspectives of African Americans with hypertension and their family members on hypertension, self-management, and reciprocal family-hypertension impacts to inform future intervention design. We conducted four dyadic focus groups (90–120 minutes) of African American adults with hypertension (i.e. patients) and their family members. We recruited patients (n = 23) and their family members (n = 23) from four African American-serving Christian churches over a period of three months (69.6% female, M age = 60.73 years). Patient–family member dyads were interviewed conjointly (groups ranged from 4 to 6 dyads, each) by facilitators using open-ended questions to elicit perspectives regarding contributors to hypertension, self-management strategies, family influence on self-management, and the impact of hypertension on the family. A grounded theory approach was used for analysis. Participants' responses highlighted themes of societal risk factors and barriers (e.g. racism-related stress worsens blood pressure), influences of African American culture (e.g. culturally-informed diet practices), the patient–physician relationship (e.g. proactive communication is beneficial), family-level influences on health (e.g. family monitoring patients' health behaviors), and patient-level risk factors and self-management strategies (e.g. prayer to cope with stress). Themes reflected a hierarchical, nested, ecological structure such that themes within unique levels of participants' social systems affected, and were affected by, stress, change, or behavior in the other levels. African American adults with hypertension and their family members described multilevel influences on hypertension and disease self-management, with a strong emphasis on the value of family support. Developing culturally appropriate, family-centered interventions to improve hypertension self-management will be an important next step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Mental health needs of transgender individuals can be complex with individual, social, and medical factors impacting symptoms. This study examines predictors of mood or anxiety problems among transgender individuals seeking hormone therapy (HT). Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted at 2 clinics providing gender-affirming HT. Cross-sectional data from initial patient encounters (N = 311) were used in this study. Bivariate correlations and multiple logistic regression analyses were carried out. Results Transgender women (TW) were 2.2 times more likely to have mood or anxiety problems while transgender men (TM) were 2.6 times more likely as the number of medical comorbidities increased. For both TW and TM, White race significantly increased the likelihood of mood or anxiety problems. Neither previous nor current HT were associated with mood or anxiety problems for TW and TM. However, receiving multiple gender-affirming procedures decreased the likelihood of mood or anxiety problems for TM. Conclusions Gender-affirming care and addressing comorbidities can be important aspects of mental health needs for transgender individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]