bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood Donors with Thalassemic Trait, Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency Trait, and Sickle Cell Trait and Their Blood Products: Current Status and Future Perspective
Authors: Noulsri Egarit , Lerdwana Surada
Published: May 2022

The use of blood products for different medical purposes has increased in recent years. To meet increasing demand, some blood centers allow volunteer donors with thalassemic trait, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD) trait, and sickle cell trait (SCT) to donate blood if their hemoglobin values fall within acceptable ranges and show no signs of hemolysis. Currently, there are no standard guidelines or policies regarding the use or management of blood products obtained from these donors. However, in recent years, there has been advanced research on eligible donors who have these underlying conditions. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge from in vitro and in vivo studies regarding donor characteristics, changes in physical and biochemical parameters in blood products during processing and storage, and posttransfusion efficacy of blood products. In addition, we discuss some unresolved issues concerning blood products from thalassemic trait, G6PD-deficiency trait, and SCT donors.
The changing-look AGN NGC 1566 in quiescence with XMM-Newton: a nuclear starburst and an AGN competing in power?
Authors: Tomás L , Matzeu G A , Jiménez Bailón E , Kalfountzou E , Santos-Lleó M , Parker M L , Ballo L , Loiseau N , Ehle M , Rodríguez-Pascual P , González-Riestra R
Published: May 2022

Star formation accretion on to the super massive black holes (SMBHs) and feedback processes link the evolution of galaxies with their SMBHs. X-ray observations in the imaging and spectral regime have revealed to be an important tool to study the connection between nuclear activity and circumnuclear star formation in nearby active galactic nuclei (AGN). X-ray spectral diagnostics can lead to disentangle, which is the ionization mechanism in the central kiloparsecs of nearby AGN. In this paper, we investigate, by means of XMM-Newton observations, the nuclear X-ray emission of the changing-look AGN NGC 1566 during its quiescent state. European Photon Imaging Camera (EPIC) soft X-ray images show an extended arm-like morphology. A detailed analysis of the high-resolution Reflection Grating Spectrometer (RGS) and medium resolution EPIC spectra shows that the material concentrated in the central kiloparsecs region is not in the photoionization-dominated regime while the presence of collisionally ionized plasma is needed to explain the observed spectral features. In the inner region (∼1.5 kpc), the brightness of the collisionally ionized gas is comparable to the brightness of the photoionized gas: the inner region hosts a luminous starburst whose ionized gas shows up bright in the X-rays when the AGN is in quiescence.
Exceptional among the exceptional: a new species of Stenogyropsis Möllendorff, 1899 (Eupulmonata: Camaenidae), with a review of the free last whorl in terrestrial gastropods
Authors: Chen Zhe-Yu , Huang Bo , Páll-Gergely Barna
Published: May 2022

Stenogyropsis is one of the few genera of Helicoidea having a high-spired shell. Here, we describe a new species (Stenogyropsis chorismenostoma n. sp.) that has a further remarkable trait: its last quarter whorl is detached from the penultimate whorl. We also show that a partly detached last whorl has evolved much more frequently in terrestrial Caenogastropoda than in Stylommatophora relative to the number of species within those groups. This may be due to the more superficial contact of the neighbouring whorls in the former group.
Exon junction complex-associated multi-adapter RNPS1 nucleates splicing regulatory complexes to maintain transcriptome surveillance
Authors: Schlautmann Lena P , Lackmann Jan-Wilm , Altmüller Janine , Dieterich Christoph , Boehm Volker , Gehring Niels H
Published: May 2022

The exon junction complex (EJC) is an RNA-binding multi-protein complex with critical functions in post-transcriptional gene regulation. It is deposited on the mRNA during splicing and regulates diverse processes including pre-mRNA splicing and nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) via various interacting proteins. The peripheral EJC-binding protein RNPS1 was reported to serve two insufficiently characterized functions: suppressing mis-splicing of cryptic splice sites and activating NMD in the cytoplasm. The analysis of transcriptome-wide effects of EJC and RNPS1 knockdowns in different human cell lines supports the conclusion that RNPS1 can moderately influence NMD activity, but is not a globally essential NMD factor. However, numerous aberrant splicing events strongly suggest that the main function of RNPS1 is splicing regulation. Rescue analyses revealed that the RRM and C-terminal domain of RNPS1 both contribute partially to regulate RNPS1-dependent splicing events. We defined the RNPS1 core interactome using complementary immunoprecipitations and proximity labeling, which identified interactions with splicing-regulatory factors that are dependent on the C-terminus or the RRM domain of RNPS1. Thus, RNPS1 emerges as a multifunctional splicing regulator that promotes correct and efficient splicing of different vulnerable splicing events via the formation of diverse splicing-promoting complexes.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Chemical Nuclease Triplex-Forming Oligonucleotides with Gene-Silencing Applications
Authors: McGorman Bríonna , Fantoni Nicolò Zuin , O’Carroll Sinéad , Ziemele Anna , El-Sagheer Afaf H , Brown Tom , Kellett Andrew
Published: May 2022

Triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) are short, single-stranded oligomers that hybridise to a specific sequence of duplex DNA. TFOs can block transcription and thereby inhibit protein production, making them highly appealing in the field of antigene therapeutics. In this work, a primer extension protocol was developed to enzymatically prepare chemical nuclease TFO hybrid constructs, with gene-silencing applications. Click chemistry was employed to generate novel artificial metallo-nuclease (AMN)-dNTPs, which were selectively incorporated into the TFO strand by a DNA polymerase. This purely enzymatic protocol was then extended to facilitate the construction of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) modified TFOs that displayed increased thermal stability. The utility of the enzymatically synthesised di-(2-picolyl)amine (DPA)-TFOs was assessed and compared to a specifically prepared solid-phase synthesis counterpart through gel electrophoresis, quantitative PCR, and Sanger sequencing, which revealed similar recognition and damage properties to target genes. The specificity was then enhanced through coordinated designer intercalators—DPQ and DPPZ—and high-precision DNA cleavage was achieved. To our knowledge, this is the first example of the enzymatic production of an AMN-TFO hybrid and is the largest base modification incorporated using this method. These results indicate how chemical nuclease-TFOs may overcome limitations associated with non-molecularly targeted metallodrugs and open new avenues for artificial gene-editing technology.
Identification of genome edited cells using CRISPRnano
Authors: Nguyen Thach , Ramachandran Haribaskar , Martins Soraia , Krutmann Jean , Rossi Andrea
Published: May 2022

Genome engineering-induced cleavage sites can be resolved by non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or homology-directed repair (HDR). Identifying genetically modified clones at the target locus remains an intensive and laborious task. Different workflows and software that rely on deep sequencing data have been developed to detect and quantify targeted mutagenesis. Nevertheless, these pipelines require high-quality reads generated by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) platforms. Here, we have developed a robust, versatile, and easy-to-use computational webserver named CRISPRnano (www.CRISPRnano.de) that enables the analysis of low-quality reads generated by affordable and portable sequencers including Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) devices. CRISPRnano allows fast and accurate identification, quantification, and visualization of genetically modified cell lines, it is compatible with NGS and ONT sequencing reads, and it can be used without an internet connection.
Molecular basis for cell-wall recycling regulation by transcriptional repressor MurR in Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhang Ya , Chen Weizhong , Wu Di , Liu Yushi , Wu Zhaowei , Li Jian , Zhang Shu-Yu , Ji Quanjiang
Published: May 2022

The cell-wall recycling process is important for bacterial survival in nutrient-limited conditions and, in certain cases, is directly involved in antibiotic resistance. In the sophisticated cell-wall recycling process in Escherichia coli, the transcriptional repressor MurR controls the expression of murP and murQ, which are involved in transporting and metabolizing N-acetylmuramic acid (MurNAc), generating N-acetylmuramic acid-6-phosphate (MurNAc-6-P) and N-acetylglucosamine-6-phosphate (GlcNAc-6-P). Here, we report that both MurNAc-6-P and GlcNAc-6-P can bind to MurR and weaken the DNA binding ability of MurR. Structural characterizations of MurR in complex with MurNAc-6-P or GlcNAc-6-P as well as in the apo form revealed the detailed ligand recognition chemistries. Further studies showed that only MurNAc-6-P, but not GlcNAc-6-P, is capable of derepressing the expression of murQP controlled by MurR in cells and clarified the substrate specificity through the identification of key residues responsible for ligand binding in the complex structures. In summary, this study deciphered the molecular mechanism of the cell wall recycling process regulated by MurR in E. coli.
Twisting DNA by salt
Authors: Cruz-León Sergio , Vanderlinden Willem , Müller Peter , Forster Tobias , Staudt Georgina , Lin Yi-Yun , Lipfert Jan , Schwierz Nadine
Published: May 2022

The structure and properties of DNA depend on the environment, in particular the ion atmosphere. Here, we investigate how DNA twist -one of the central properties of DNA- changes with concentration and identity of the surrounding ions. To resolve how cations influence the twist, we combine single-molecule magnetic tweezer experiments and extensive all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. Two interconnected trends are observed for monovalent alkali and divalent alkaline earth cations. First, DNA twist increases monotonously with increasing concentration for all ions investigated. Second, for a given salt concentration, DNA twist strongly depends on cation identity. At 100 mM concentration, DNA twist increases as Na+ < K+ < Rb+ < Ba2+ < Li+ ≈ Cs+ < Sr2+ < Mg2+ < Ca2+. Our molecular dynamics simulations reveal that preferential binding of the cations to the DNA backbone or the nucleobases has opposing effects on DNA twist and provides the microscopic explanation of the observed ion specificity. However, the simulations also reveal shortcomings of existing force field parameters for Cs+ and Sr2+. The comprehensive view gained from our combined approach provides a foundation for understanding and predicting cation-induced structural changes both in nature and in DNA nanotechnology.
Association of serum potassium with decline in residual kidney function in incident hemodialysis patients
Authors: Arif Yousif , Wenziger Cachet , Hsiung Jui Ting , Edward Amanda , Lau Wei Ling , Hanna Ramy M , Lee Yuji , Obi Yoshitsugu , Kovesdy Csaba P , Kalantar-Zadeh Kamyar , Streja Elani
Published: May 2022

Background

Hyperkalemia is associated with kidney function decline in patients with non-dialysis dependent chronic kidney disease, but this relationship is unclear for residual kidney function (RKF) among hemodialysis (HD) patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 6655 patients, who started HD January 2007 and December 2011 and who had data on renal urea clearance (KRU). Serum potassium levels were stratified into four groups (i.e. ≤4.0, >4.0 to ≤4.5, >4.5 to ≤5.0 and >5.0 mEq/L) and 1-year KRU slope for each group was estimated by a linear mixed-effects model.

Results

Higher serum potassium was associated with a greater decline in KRU, and the greatest decrease in KRU (–0.20, 95% confidence interval –0.50 to –0.06) was observed for baseline potassium >5.0 mEq/L in the fully adjusted model. Mediation analysis showed that KRU slope mediated 1.78% of the association between serum potassium and mortality.

Conclusions

Hyperkalemia is associated with a decline in RKF amongst incident HD patients. These findings may have important clinical implications in the management of hyperkalemia in advanced CKD if confirmed in additional clinical trials.
Unraveling templated-regulated distribution of isolated SiO4 tetrahedra in silicoaluminophosphate zeolites with high-throughput computations
Authors: Li Yan , Shi Chao , Li Lin , Yang Guoju , Li Junyan , Xu Jun , Gu Qinfen , Wang Xingxing , Han Ji , Zhang Tianjun , Li Yi , Yu Jihong
Published: May 2022

Silicoaluminophosphate (SAPO) zeolites are well-known catalytic materials because of the mild acidity originating from the isolated SiO4 tetrahedra in their frameworks. Regulating the distribution of isolated SiO4 tetrahedra in SAPO zeolites is formidably challenging because SiO4 tetrahedra tend to agglomerate to form Si islands and the isolated SiO4 tetrahedra are difficult to determine using conventional characterization techniques. Here we synthesized Si-island-free SAPO-35 zeolites by using N-methylpiperidine as a new template, which exhibited excellent thermal stability compared to conventional SAPO-35 zeolites and a substantially improved methanol-to-olefins catalytic lifetime even comparable to that of commercial SAPO-34 zeolites. More strikingly, with the aid of high-throughput computations on 44 697 structure models combined with various state-of-the-art characterization techniques, for the first time, we reveal that the host–guest interactions between template molecules and SAPO frameworks determine the specific distributions of isolated SiO4 tetrahedra, which are responsible for the improvement in the chemical properties of zeolites. Our work provides an insight into the template-based regulation of isolated SiO4 tetrahedra in SAPO zeolites, which opens a new avenue in the discovery of promising zeolite catalysts with optimal SiO4 distribution.
Multiwavelength observations of the black hole X-ray binary MAXI J1820+070 in the rebrightening phase
Authors: Yoshitake Tomohiro , Shidatsu Megumi , Ueda Yoshihiro , Mineshige Shin , Murata Katsuhiro L , Adachi Ryo , Maehara Hiroyuki , Nogami Daisaku , Negoro Hitoshi , Kawai Nobuyuki , Niwano Masafumi , Hosokawa Ryohei , Saito Tomoki , Oasa Yumiko , Takarada Takuya , Shigeyoshi Takumi ,   OISTER Collaboration
Published: May 2022

We report the results of quasi-simultaneous multiwavelength (near-infrared, optical, UV, and X-ray) observations of the Galactic X-ray black hole binary MAXI J1820+070 performed in 2019 May 10–13, ∼60 d after the onset of the first rebrightening phase. It showed a much larger optical-to-X-ray luminosity ratio (∼8) than in the initial outburst epoch. The primary components of the spectral energy distribution (SED) can be best interpreted by a radiatively inefficient accretion flow (RIAF) spectrum showing a luminosity peak in the optical band. By comparison with theoretical calculations, we estimate the mass accretion rate to be $\dot{M}/(8 L_{\rm Edd}/c^2) \sim 10^{-3}$, where c is the light speed and LEdd is the Eddington luminosity. In addition to the RIAF emission, a blue power-law component is detected in the optical–UV SED, which is most likely synchrotron radiation from the jet. The optical spectrum taken at the Seimei telescope shows a weak and narrow Hα emission line, the emitting region of which is constrained to be ≳2 × 104 times the gravitational radius. We suggest that the entire disk structure cannot be described by a single RIAF solution but cooler material responsible for the Hα emission must exist at the outermost region.
A serine-rich effector from the stripe rust pathogen targets a Raf-like kinase to suppress host immunity
Authors: Wan Cuiping , Liu Yan , Tian Shuxin , Guo Jia , Bai Xingxuan , Zhu Haochuan , Kang Zhensheng , Guo Jun
Published: May 2022

Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) is an important obligate pathogen in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and secretes effectors into plant cells to promote infection. Identifying host targets of effector proteins and clarifying their roles in pathogen infection is essential for understanding pathogen virulence. In this study, we identified a serine-rich effector, Pst27791, from Pst that suppresses cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana. Stable overexpression of Pst27791 in wheat suppressed reactive oxygen species accumulation and the salicylic acid-dependent defense response. Transgenic wheat expressing the RNA interference construct of Pst27791 exhibited high resistance to Pst virulent isolate CYR31, indicating its importance in pathogenesis. Pst27791 interacting with wheat rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (Raf)-like kinase TaRaf46 in yeast and in planta. Knocking down TaRaf46 expression in wheat attenuated Pst infection and increased wheat immunity. The overexpression of TaRaf46 decreased wheat resistance to Pst and repressed MAPK activation in wheat. Pst27791 may stabilize TaRaf46 through the inhibition of proteasome-mediated degradation in N. benthamiana. The ability of Pst27791 to enhance Pst colonization was compromised when TaRaf46 was silenced, suggesting that the virulence of Pst27791 is mediated by TaRaf46. Overall, these results indicate that Raf-like kinase TaRaf46 is exploited by the Pst effector as a negative regulator of plant immunity to promote infection in wheat.
Heat shock-induced failure of meiosis I to meiosis II transition leads to 2n pollen formation in a woody plant
Authors: Zhou Qing , Cheng Xuetong , Kong Bo , Zhao Yifan , Li Zhiqun , Sang Yaru , Wu Jian , Zhang Pingdong
Published: May 2022

The formation of diploid gametes through chromosome doubling is a major mechanism of polyploidization, diversification, and speciation in plants. Unfavorable climate conditions can induce or stimulate the production of diploid gametes during meiosis. Here, we demonstrated that heat shock stress (38°C for 3 or 6 h) induced 2n pollen formation, and we generated 42 triploids derived from heat shock-induced 2n pollen of Populus canescens. Meiotic analysis of treated pollen mother cells revealed that induced 2n pollen originated from the complete loss of meiosis II (MII). Among the 42 triploids, 38 triploids derived from second division restitution (SDR)-type 2n pollen and 4 triploids derived from first division restitution-type 2n pollen were verified using simple sequence repeats (SSR) molecular markers. Twenty-two differentially expressed genes related to the cell cycle were identified and characterized by expression profile analysis. Among them was POPTR_0002s08020g (PtCYCA1;2), which encodes a type A Cyclin CYCA1;2 that is required for the meiosis I (MI) to MII transition. After male flower buds were exposed to heat shock, a significant reduction was detected in PtCYCA1;2 expression. We inferred that the failure of MI-to-MII transitions might be associated with downregulated expression of PtCYCA1;2, leading to the formation of SDR-type 2n pollen. Our findings provide insights into mechanisms of heat shock-induced 2n pollen formation in a woody plant and verify that sensitivity to environmental stress has evolutionary importance in terms of polyploidization.
Pit characters determine drought-induced embolism resistance of leaf xylem across 18 Neotropical tree species
Authors: Levionnois Sébastien , Kaack Lucian , Heuret Patrick , Abel Nina , Ziegler Camille , Coste Sabrina , Stahl Clément , Jansen Steven
Published: May 2022

Embolism spreading in xylem is an important component of plant drought resistance. Since embolism resistance has been shown to be mechanistically linked to pit membrane characters in stem xylem, we speculate that similar mechanisms account for leaf xylem. We conducted transmission electron microscopy to investigate pit membrane characters in leaf xylem across 18 Neotropical tree species. We also conducted gold perfusion and polar lipid detection experiments on three species covering the full range of leaf embolism resistance. We then related these observations to previously published data on embolism resistance of leaf xylem. We also incorporated previously published data on stem embolism resistance and stem xylem pit membranes to investigate the link between vulnerability segmentation (i.e. difference in embolism resistance) and leaf–stem anatomical variation. Maximum pit membrane thickness (Tpm,max) and the pit membrane thickness-to-diameter ratio (Tpm,max/Dpm) were predictive of leaf embolism resistance, especially when vestured pits were taken into account. Variation in Tpm,max/Dpm was the only trait predictive of vulnerability segmentation between leaves and stems. Gold particles of 5- and 10-nm infiltrated pit membranes in three species, while the entry of 50-nm particles was blocked. Moreover, polar lipids were associated with inner conduit walls and pits. Our results suggest that mechanisms related to embolism spreading are determined by Tpm, pore constrictions (i.e. the narrowest bottlenecks along pore pathways), and lipid surfactants, which are largely similar between leaf and stem xylem and between temperate and tropical trees. However, our mechanistic understanding of embolism propagation and the functional relevance of Tpm,max/Dpm remains elusive.
Tax Policy and Lumpy Investment Behaviour: Evidence from China’s VAT Reform
Authors: Chen Zhao , Jiang Xian , Liu Zhikuo , Serrato Juan Carlos Suárez , Xu Daniel Yi
Published: May 2022

We incorporate the lumpy nature of firm-level investment into the study of how tax policy affects investment behaviour. We show that tax policies can directly impact the lumpiness of investment. Extensive-margin responses to tax policy are key to understanding the effects of different tax reforms and to designing effective stimulus policies. We illustrate these results by studying China’s 2009 VAT reform, which lowered the tax cost of investment and reduced partial irreversibility—the price gap between new and used capital. Using comprehensive tax survey data and a difference-in-differences design, we estimate a 36$\%$ relative investment increase that is driven by investment spikes. Using a dynamic investment model that fits the reduced-form effects of the reform, we show that policies that directly reduce the likelihood of firm inaction are more effective at stimulating investment.
Fast Likelihood Calculations for Automatic Identification of Macroevolutionary Rate Heterogeneity in Continuous and Discrete Traits
Authors: Grundler Michael C , Rabosky Daniel L , Zapata Felipe
Published: May 2022

Understanding phenotypic disparity across the tree of life requires identifying where and when evolutionary rates change on phylogeny. A primary methodological challenge in macroevolution is therefore to develop methods for accurate inference of among-lineage variation in rates of phenotypic evolution. Here, we describe a method for inferring among-lineage evolutionary rate heterogeneity in both continuous and discrete traits. The method assumes that the present-day distribution of a trait is shaped by a variable-rate process arising from a mixture of constant-rate processes and uses a single-pass tree traversal algorithm to estimate branch-specific evolutionary rates. By employing dynamic programming optimization techniques and approximate maximum likelihood estimators where appropriate, our method permits rapid exploration of the tempo and mode of phenotypic evolution. Simulations indicate that the method reconstructs rates of trait evolution with high accuracy. Application of the method to data sets on squamate reptile reproduction and turtle body size recovers patterns of rate heterogeneity identified by previous studies but with computational costs reduced by many orders of magnitude. Our results expand the set of tools available for detecting macroevolutionary rate heterogeneity and point to the utility of fast, approximate methods for studying large-scale biodiversity dynamics. [Brownian motion; continuous characters; discrete characters; macroevolution; Markov process; rate heterogeneity.]
A Comparative Review of Fibroadipose Vascular Anomaly and PTEN Hamartoma Syndrome of the Soft Tissue
Authors: Lin Jaimie Y. , Ochmanek Emily , Tchanque-Fossuo Catherine N. , Fabre Anna , Stepenaskie Shelly , Williams Jessica B. , Smidt Aimee C.
Published: May 2022

Fibroadipose vascular anomaly and PTEN hamartoma of the soft tissue are vascular anomalies that tend to present with similar clinical findings. These entities are often confused for other conditions, with patients regularly presenting to vascular anomalies specialists with incorrect diagnoses. As PTEN hamartoma of the soft tissue has been identified as a neoplastic syndrome, ensuring an accurate diagnosis is of paramount importance. The objective of this case review was to identify similarities and differences in the clinical, histologic, and radiologic findings between these 2 rare vascular anomalies.
A Wider Perspective on Data Validation: A Multiregion Collaboration
Authors: Houck Olivia C. , Harrison Kelly , Giambri Roxanna , Moore Deanah , Burt Joyce , Cookman Kathy , Graymire Vickie
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND:

Data validation is important in maintaining the high-quality data necessary for trauma programs and research. Most existing guidance focuses on trauma center-level data validation, but validation from a broader level (region, state) may also be a helpful tool.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this project is to improve data collection and submission at the local, regional, and state levels by performing logic-based data validation.

METHODS:

Logic edits were identified and accuracy rates were tracked quarterly, as measures were taken to improve accuracy. Following completion of Phase 1 of validation, Phase 2 was initiated to include both new fields and fields from Phase 1 that did not meet the accuracy goal. Data from Phase 2 were then compared with data from the state trauma registry.

RESULTS:

In both Phase 1 and Phase 2, five of the seven data fields validated reached 90% accuracy by the end of the respective project phase. The project facilitated registrar education and pursuit of data collection solutions in registry software. Systemic issues were identified at a higher level that had not been noticed at the trauma center level.

DISCUSSION:

Robust data validation is critical for an accurate trauma registry. Engaging higher-level organizations, like trauma regions, provides new perspective in data validation.

CONCLUSION:

This regional data validation approach provided additional value beyond usual center-level data validation.
Systematic Review of Pelvic Anatomy iOS and Android Applications for Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Authors: Menhaji Kimia , Holtzman Sharonne , Roser Brittany , Hardart Anne , Chen Katherine T.
Published: May 2022

Importance

Resources for learning and enhancing knowledge in medicine, such as mobile applications (apps), have dramatically increased in recent years; however, there is lack of a valid source for identifying the best and most reliable mobile apps.

Objectives

The goal of this study was to identify the highest scoring available pelvic anatomy apps based on quality, content, and functionality for obstetrician-gynecologists using a validated tool.

Study Design

This was a systematic evaluation of anatomy apps in the Apple iTunes (iOS) and Google Play (Android) stores. Exclusions included apps that had nonhuman, nonanatomy content, did not include female pelvic anatomy or were deemed inappropriate for postgraduate level. The validated Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS), a mobile-health (mHealth) app scoring system was used to evaluate apps based on both objective and subjective quality. The authors' MARS scores for each variable were compiled, and the objective, subjective, and overall scores were calculated.

Results

The search criteria yielded 2,432 apps: 952 (39%) Apple iTunes store and 1,480 (60.8%) Google Play Store apps. After applying the exclusion criteria, 35 (14 iOS, 8 Android, and 13 iOS/Android) apps were included for evaluation using the MARS system. “Complete Anatomy” app, available for both iOS and Android systems, obtained the highest objective, subjective, and overall MARS score.

Conclusions

Although there are numerous anatomy apps available, only a few meet prespecified criteria for functionality, content, quality, and are appropriate for obstetrician-gynecologists. Using a validated scoring system, we present a scored list of female pelvic anatomy apps most appropriate for obstetrician-gynecologists.
Prevalence of Pelvic Floor Disorders in United States Active-Duty Service Women Seeking Medical Care
Authors: Wheat Joy E. , Khan Munziba , Banaag Amanda , Vaccaro Christine , Greer Joy A. , P. Koehlmoos Tracey , Hamlin Lynette
Published: May 2022

Importance

In the United States, pelvic floor disorders affect 25% of women. Despite facing unique occupational risk factors that may increase the risk of pelvic floor disorders, there is little research on the prevalence of these disorders in active-duty service women.

Objectives

This study sought to identify the prevalence of and risk factors for pelvic floor disorders in active-duty service women in the United States from diagnostic codes through service utilization.

Study Design

Utilizing the Military Health System Data Repository, a cross-sectional study was conducted of all active-duty service women in the United States Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps during fiscal years 2010 to 2019.

Results

This study identified 497,255 active-duty service women of whom 9.93% had pelvic floor disorders. Adjusted regression model analyses indicated increasing parity and body mass index significantly affect the risk of pelvic floor disorders. Active-duty women with 3 or more births were 3 times more likely to have pelvic floor disorders compared with the nulliparous group. Finally, subset analysis indicates the risk of pelvic floor disorders were increased 250% in obese women and decreased 20% for underweight women. The rate of pelvic floor disorders appears to be increasing among active-duty women.

Conclusions

Active-duty service women have significantly lower rates of pelvic floor disorders compared with the general population, possibly due to the protective effects of improved weight management and physical fitness requirements for their job performance. However, pelvic floor disorders may be uptrending and need continued monitoring.
Electroconvulsive Therapy in a Patient With Depression on Hemodialysis
Authors: Watanabe Shintaro , Yasuda Kazuyuki , Tada Teruo , Ishibashi Akifumi , Suzuki Takefumi
Published: May 2022

Evidence on electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for people receiving chronic hemodialysis has been rather scarce in the literature. We report the case of a 74-year-old male patient with major depressive disorder on chronic hemodialysis for 14 years with numerous physical complications including abdominal aortic aneurysm, ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament, and cerebral stroke. Several antidepressant drugs failed to improve the patient, but judicious implementation of a total of 6 ECT sessions under a close liaison with medical experts brought him into remission without any notable adverse effects. In particular, flumazenil, as well as rocuronium and sugammadex, was used together with a strict control of blood pressure. We thoroughly discuss the case and provide a literature review on such topics as assessment of physical complications, medications used for anesthesia, electrode placement, and timing of hemodialysis during ECT sessions, which identified a clear need for more research on this medically challenging issue.
The potential impact of intensified community hand hygiene interventions on respiratory tract infections: a modelling study
Authors: Pham Thi Mui , Yin Mo , Cooper Ben S.
Published: May 2022

Hand hygiene is among the most fundamental and widely used behavioural measures to reduce the person-to-person spread of human pathogens and its effectiveness as a community intervention is supported by evidence from randomized trials. However, a theoretical understanding of the relationship between hand hygiene frequency and change in risk of infection is lacking. Using a simple model-based framework for understanding the determinants of hand hygiene effectiveness in preventing viral respiratory tract infections, we show that a crucial, but overlooked, determinant of the relationship between hand hygiene frequency and risk of infection via indirect transmission is persistence of viable virus on hands. If persistence is short, as has been reported for influenza, hand-washing needs to be performed very frequently or immediately after hand contamination to substantially reduce the probability of infection. When viable virus survival is longer (e.g. in the presence of mucus or for some enveloped viruses) less frequent hand washing can substantially reduce the infection probability. Immediate hand washing after contamination is consistently more effective than at fixed-time intervals. Our study highlights that recommendations on hand hygiene should be tailored to persistence of viable virus on hands and that more detailed empirical investigations are needed to help optimize this key intervention.
Profiling the plasmid conjugation potential of urinary Escherichia coli
Authors: Montelongo Hernandez Cesar , Putonti Catherine , Wolfe Alan J.
Published: May 2022

Escherichia coli

is often associated with urinary tract infection (UTI). Antibiotic resistance in

E. coli

is an ongoing challenge in managing UTI. Extrachromosomal elements – plasmids – are vectors for clinically relevant traits, such as antibiotic resistance, with conjugation being one of the main methods for horizontal propagation of plasmids in bacterial populations. Targeting of conjugation components has been proposed as a strategy to curb the spread of plasmid-borne antibiotic resistance. Understanding the types of conjugative systems present in urinary

E. coli

isolates is fundamental to assessing the viability of this strategy. In this study, we profile two well-studied conjugation systems (F-type and P-type) in the draft genomes of 65 urinary isolates of

E. coli

obtained from the bladder urine of adult women with and without UTI-like symptoms. Most of these isolates contained plasmids and we found that conjugation genes were abundant/ubiquitous, diverse and often associated with IncF plasmids. To validate conjugation of these urinary plasmids, the plasmids from two urinary isolates, UMB1223 (predicted to have F-type genes) and UMB1284 (predicted to have P-type genes), were transferred by conjugation into the K-12

E. coli

strain MG1655. Overall, the findings of this study support the notion that care should be taken in targeting any individual component of a urinary

E. coli

isolate’s conjugation system, given the inherent mechanistic redundancy, gene diversity and different types of conjugation systems in this population.
Helicobacter cinaedi is a human-adapted lineage in the Helicobacter cinaedi/canicola/‘magdeburgensis’ complex
Authors: Gotoh Yasuhiro , Atsuta Yuya , Taniguchi Takako , Nishida Ruriko , Nakamura Keiji , Ogura Yoshitoshi , Misawa Naoaki , Hayashi Tetsuya
Published: May 2022

Helicobacter cinaedi

is an enterohepatic

Helicobacter

that causes bacteremia and other diseases in humans. While

H. cinaedi

-like strains are isolated from animals, including dog isolates belonging to a recently proposed

H. canicola

, little is known about the genetic differences between

H. cinaedi

and these animal isolates. Here, we sequenced 43 H. cinaedi- or

H. canicola

-like strains isolated from humans, hamsters, rats and dogs and collected 81 genome sequences of

H. cinaedi

,

H. canicola

and other enterohepatic

Helicobacter

strains from public databases. Genomic comparison of these strains identified four distinct clades (clades I–IV) in H. cinaedi/canicola/‘magderbugensis’ (HCCM) complex. Among these, clade I corresponds to H. cinaedi sensu stricto and represents a human-adapted lineage in the complex. We identified several genomic features unique to clade I. They include the accumulation of antimicrobial resistance-related mutations that reflects the human association of clade I and the larger genome size and the presence of a CRISPR-Cas system and multiple toxin-antitoxin and restriction-modification systems, both of which indicate the contribution of horizontal gene transfer to the evolution of clade I. In addition, nearly all clade I strains but only a few strains belonging to one minor clade contained a highly variable genomic region encoding a type VI secretion system (T6SS), which could play important roles in gut colonization by killing competitors or inhibiting their growth. We also developed a method to systematically search for

H. cinaedi

sequences in large metagenome data sets based on the results of genome comparison. Using this method, we successfully identified multiple HCCM complex-containing human faecal metagenome samples and obtained the sequence information covering almost the entire genome of each strain. Importantly, all were clade I strains, supporting our conclusion that H. cinaedi sensu stricto is a human-adapted lineage in the HCCM complex.
Functional dissection of human mitotic genes using CRISPR–Cas9 tiling screens
Authors: Herman Jacob A. , Arora Sonali , Carter Lucas , Zhu Jun , Biggins Sue , Paddison Patrick J.
Published: May 2022

The identity of human protein-coding genes is well known, yet our in-depth knowledge of their molecular functions and domain architecture remains limited by shortcomings in homology-based predictions and experimental approaches focused on whole-gene depletion. To bridge this knowledge gap, we developed a method that leverages CRISPR–Cas9-induced mutations across protein-coding genes for the a priori identification of functional regions at the sequence level. As a test case, we applied this method to 48 human mitotic genes, revealing hundreds of regions required for cell proliferation, including domains that were experimentally characterized, ones that were predicted based on homology, and novel ones. We validated screen outcomes for 15 regions, including amino acids 387–402 of Mad1, which were previously uncharacterized but contribute to Mad1 kinetochore localization and chromosome segregation fidelity. Altogether, we demonstrate that CRISPR–Cas9-based tiling mutagenesis identifies key functional domains in protein-coding genes de novo, which elucidates separation of function mutants and allows functional annotation across the human proteome.
Odor-based context-dependent memory: influence of olfactory cues on declarative and nondeclarative memory indices
Authors: Sorokowska Agnieszka , Nord Marie , Stefańczyk Michał Mikołaj , Larsson Maria
Published: May 2022

Reinstating the olfactory learning context can increase access to memory information, but it is not fully clear which memory functions are subject to an enhancing odor context reinstatement effect. Here, we tested whether congruent odor context during encoding and recall positively affected declarative and nondeclarative memory scores using a novel method for manipulation of an odorous environment; namely, intranasal Nosa plugs. Recall of a text and a complex figure as well as performance in a priming task were assessed immediately and 1 wk after encoding. We found that congruent odor exposure at encoding and recall aided free retrieval of a story at delayed testing but had no significant effect on a complex figure recall or a word completion task. Differences between the assessed memory indices suggest that olfactory environmental cues may be primarily efficient in free verbal recall tasks.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 5-amino-5′-bromo-2′-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-spiro[imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-7,3′-indoline]-6,8-dicarbonitrile dimethyl sulfoxide disolvate
Authors: Naghiyev Farid N. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Novikov Anton P. , Akkurt Mehmet , Rzayev Rovnag M. , Akobirshoeva Anzurat A. , Mamedov Ibrahim G.
Published: May 2022

In the title compound, C16H11BrN6O·2C2H6OS, the 1,2,3,7-tetrahydroimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine ring system and the oxindole moiety are both nearly planar [maximum deviations = 0.042 (2) and 0.115 (2) Å, respectively] and their planes form a dihedral angle of 86.04 (5)° with each other. Intermolecular N—H...O, C—H...O and C—H...N hydrogen bonds link molecules in the crystal through the O atoms of the solvent molecules, generating a three-dimensional network. A Hirshfeld surface analysis was performed to further analyse the intermolecular interactions.
Artificial neural network based wing planform aerodynamic optimization
Authors: Dam Burak , Pirasaci Tolga , Kaya Mustafa
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Environmental and operational restrictions increasingly drive modern aircraft design due to the growing impact of global warming on the ecology. Regulations and industrial measures are being introduced to make air traffic greener, including restrictions and environmental targets for aircraft design that increase aerodynamic efficiency. This study aims to maximize aerodynamic efficiency by identifying optimal values for sweep angle, taper ratio, twist angle and wing incidence angle parameters in wing design while keeping wing area and span constant.

Design/methodology/approach

Finding optimal wing values by using gradient-based and evolutionary algorithm methods is very time-consuming. Therefore, an artificial neural network-based surrogate model was developed. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses were carried out by using Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations to create a properly trained data set using a feedforward neural network.

Findings

The results showed how a wing could be optimized by using a CFD-based surrogate model. The two optimum results obtained resulted in increases of 10.7397% and 10.65% in the aerodynamic efficiency of the baseline design ONERA M6 wing.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in the combination of sweep angle, taper ratio, twist angle and wing incidence angle within the scope of wing optimization calculations.
An analysis of drivers for the adoption of integrated sustainable-green-lean-six sigma-agile manufacturing system (ISGLSAMS) in Indian manufacturing industries
Authors: Hariyani Dharmendra , Mishra Sanjeev
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Scarcity of resources and ever-changing customer demand has driven the manufacturing organization to opt for an integrated sustainable-green-lean-six sigma-agile manufacturing system (ISGLSAMS). The purpose of this study is to identify and rank the various drivers for the adoption of ISGLSAMS for the more sustainable development of the industries.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a survey questionnaire, data were collected for the 14 ISGLSAMS drivers, identified through the literature review, from 108 Indian manufacturing industries. The sign test is used to check the relevance and significance of drivers. ISGLSAMS drivers are ranked based on the median and standard deviation. A multiple regression model was employed to investigate the effects of other drivers on the highest-ranked driver to strengthen the understanding of the drivers.

Findings

Competition, customer demand, technological changes, supply chain pressure, cost benefits, incentives, top management commitment and future legislation are found the strongest drivers for ISGLSAMS. For administering the competition for ISGLSAMS policymakers must focus on the availability of organization resources, customer demand, future legislation, incentives, supply chain pressure and technological developments.

Practical implications

The study contributes to a better understanding of ISGLSAMS drivers. Through this study government, stakeholders and policymakers may plan the policy, roadmap and strategies to drive the manufacturing organizations for the adoption of ISGLSAMS for more sustainable development of industries in India.

Originality/value

This work contributes to the identification and prioritization of the drivers for the more sustainable manufacturing system, i.e. ISGLSAMS (7 Rs based, i.e. 6 Rs of sustainability with 7thR, reconfiguration). The research also contributes to the (1) ISGLSAMS literature (2) the awareness and demand of (a) ISGLSAMS (b) reconfigurable, sustainable and modular products (c) redesign, recovery and refurbishing of the product to increase the product life cycle.
Faraoyść: imagining alternative worlds from joy
Authors: Lathrop Anna , Szagdaj Julia W. , Abou Jaoude Nour
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Faraoyść is a translinguistic portmanteau neologism that describes the moment when oppressive systems are shaken and appear to be coming to an end, and joyful, liberated worlds feel within reach. The purpose of this research is to demonstrate that faraoyść helped participants helped participants to expand their situated imaginings, which increased their capacity to imagine decolonized worlds.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was guided by faraoyść as a conceptual framework that explores the empirical experience of joy through collaborative world-building activities. These praxis-based exercises were tested in a series of workshops both at the 2020 UNESCO Futures Literacy Summit and in collaboration with Negligence Refugees from Lebanon.

Findings

When activated by collaboratively designed speculative objects and stories generated through the lens of faraoyść, participants created spaces of rhizomatic world-building that allowed them to imagine beyond the boundaries of their situated imaginings. Once participants had mapped the ways their imaginations were limited by current colonial systems of power, they were able to reorient their roles and develop new means to act within decolonized systems.

Originality/value

Faraoyść is a novel conceptual framework that contributes to current movements to decolonize futuring and foresight. This paper also introduces the concepts of rhizomatic world-building – an emergent approach to co-imagination, and situated imaginings, which are the systemic frameworks within which one imagines the ways the world has, is, will and must work. In practice, faraoyść is grounded in abundance and the power of liberatory joy to strengthen and celebrate local traditions, storytelling, world-building and community power.
Diasporic futures: exploring evolutions of identity among Somali-Canadians
Authors: Nur Liin Abdullahi
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Among the Somalis living in the diaspora, there is a growing number that are returning or are interested in returning to Somalia for personal, economic and political reasons. The purpose of this paper is to examine the potential impact the diaspora has on the future of Somalia by understanding the anticipatory assumptions held by young Somali-Canadians. This research will also examine the role that Soomaalinimo [1] (Somali identity) plays in the transnational ties that diasporic individuals keep with their country and its people.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an indigenist research approach, this paper explores the evolution of Soomaalinimo over time in a way that is culturally informed and decolonial. Young Somali-Canadians in two cities (Toronto and Edmonton) were given an opportunity to define Soomaalinimo for themselves and create scenarios of how it might evolve in the future for their great-grandchildren. An analysis of these scenarios reveals anticipatory assumptions that shape how they think about the future.

Findings

Three distinct futures scenarios emerged, and this research revealed three key anticipatory assumptions held by the participants: Somalia will always be home; returning to Somalia is important to maintain Soomaalinimo; and it is the responsibility of the previous generations to transmit Soomaalinimo to future generations. These anticipatory assumptions are examined and an analysis of the implications on decolonizing futures is presented.

Originality/value

This study expands the conceptualization of the future of a country to include the diaspora and uses the concept of anticipatory assumptions to reveal some of the potential implications of this group.