bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of eye-specific attention in ocular dominance plasticity
Authors: Song Fangxing , Lyu Lili , Zhao Jiaxu , Bao Min
Published: March 2022

It is well known how selective attention biases information processing in real time, but few work investigates the aftereffects of prolonged attention, let alone the underlying neural mechanisms. To examine perceptual aftereffect after prolonged attention to a monocular pathway, movie images played normally were presented to normal adult’s one eye (attended eye), while movie images of the same episode but played backwards were presented to the opposite eye (unattended eye). One hour of watching this dichoptic movie caused a shift of perceptual ocular dominance towards the unattended eye. Interestingly, the aftereffect positively correlated with the advantage of neural activity for the attended-eye over unattended-eye signals at the frontal electrodes measured with steady-state visual evoked potentials. Moreover, the aftereffect disappeared when interocular competition was minimized during adaptation. These results suggest that top-down eye-specific attention can induce ocular dominance plasticity through binocular rivalry mechanisms. The present study opens the route to explain at least part of short-term ocular dominance plasticity with the ocular-opponency-neuron model, which may be an interesting complement to the homeostatic compensation theory.
Landscape of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Neutralization Susceptibilities Across Tissue Reservoirs
Authors: Wang Chuangqi , Schlub Timothy E , Yu Wen Han , Tan C Sabrina , Stefic Karl , Gianella Sara , Smith Davey M , Lauffenburger Douglas A , Chaillon Antoine , Julg Boris
Published: March 2022

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) sequence diversity and the presence of archived epitope muta­tions in antibody binding sites are a major obstacle for the clinical application of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) against HIV-1. Specifically, it is unclear to what degree the viral reservoir is compartmentalized and if virus susceptibility to antibody neutralization differs across tissues.

Methods

The Last Gift cohort enrolled 7 people with HIV diagnosed with a terminal illness and collected antemortem blood and postmortem tissues across 33 anatomical compartments for near full-length env HIV genome sequencing. Using these data, we applied a Bayesian machine-learning model (Markov chain Monte Carlo–support vector machine) that uses HIV-1 envelope sequences and approximated glycan-occupancy information to quantitatively predict the half-maximal inhib­itory concentrations (IC50) of bNAbs, allowing us to map neutralization resistance pattern across tissue reservoirs.

Results

Predicted mean susceptibilities across tissues within participants were relatively homogenous, and the susceptibility pattern observed in blood often matched what was predicted for tissues. However, selected tissues, such as the brain, showed ev­idence of compartmentalized viral populations with distinct neutralization susceptibilities in some participants. Additionally, we found substantial heterogeneity in the range of neutralization susceptibilities across tissues within and between indi­viduals, and between bNAbs within individuals (standard deviation of log2(IC50) >3.4).

Conclusions

Blood-based screening methods to determine viral susceptibility to bNAbs might underestimate the presence of resistant viral variants in tissues. The extent to which these resistant viruses are clinically relevant, that is, lead to bNAb therapeutic failure, needs to be further explored.
Age-Specific Changes in Virulence Associated With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Variants of Concern
Authors: Fisman David N , Tuite Ashleigh R
Published: March 2022

Background

Novel variants of concern (VOCs) have been associated with both increased infectivity and virulence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The virulence of SARS-CoV-2 is closely linked to age. Whether relative increases in virulence of novel VOCs are similar across the age spectrum or are limited to some age groups is unknown.

Methods

We created a retrospective cohort of people in Ontario, Canada, who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and were screened for VOCs (n = 259 984) between 7 February 2021 and 31 October 2021. Cases were classified as N501Y-positive VOC, probable Delta VOC, or VOC undetected. We constructed age-specific logistic regression models to evaluate associations between N501Y-postive or Delta VOC infections and infection severity using hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and death as outcome variables. Models were adjusted for sex, comorbidity, vaccination status, and temporal trends.

Results

Infection with either N501Y-positive or Delta VOCs was associated with significant elevations in risk of hospitalization, ICU admission, and death across age groups compared with infections where a VOC was not detected. The Delta VOC increased hospitalization risk in children aged <10 years by a factor of 2.5 (adjusted odds ratio; 95% confidence interval, 1.3 to 5.0) compared with non-VOCs. There was a significant inverse relationship between age and relative increase in risk of death with the Delta VOC, with younger age groups showing a greater relative increase in risk of death than older individuals.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 VOCs appear to be associated with increased relative virulence of infection in all age groups, though low absolute numbers of outcomes in younger individuals make estimates in these groups imprecise.
Sustained Impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Hepatitis C Virus Treatment Initiations in the United States
Authors: Hoenigl Martin , Abramovitz Daniela , Flores Ortega Ricardo E , Martin Natasha K , Reau Nancy
Published: March 2022

Background

Recent reports indicated declines in hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing during the first half of 2020 in the United States due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but the longer-term impact on HCV testing and treatment is unclear.

Methods

We obtained monthly state-level volumes of HCV antibody, RNA and genotype testing, and HCV treatment initiation, stratified by age and gender, spanning January 2019 until December 2020 from 2 large national laboratories. We performed segmented regression analysis for each state from a mixed-effects Poisson regression model with month as the main fixed predictor and state as a random intercept.

Results

During the pre–COVID-19 period (January 2019–March 2020), monthly HCV antibody and genotype tests decreased slightly whereas RNA tests and treatment initiations remained stable. Between March and April 2020, there were declines in the number of HCV antibody tests (37% reduction, P < .001), RNA tests (37.5% reduction, P < .001), genotype tests (24% reduction, P = .023), and HCV treatment initiations (31%, P < .001). Starting April 2020 through the end of 2020, there were significant increases in month-to-month HCV antibody (P < .001), RNA (P = .035), and genotype tests (P = .047), but only antibody testing rebounded to pre–COVID-19 levels. HCV treatment initiations remained low after April 2020 throughout the remainder of the year.

Conclusions

HCV testing and treatment dropped by >30% during April 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, but although HCV testing increased again later in 2020, HCV treatment rates did not recover. Efforts should be made to link HCV-positive patients to treatment and revitalize HCV treatment engagement by healthcare providers.
External validation of the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons morbidity and mortality risk models
Authors: Gómez de Antonio David , Crowley Carrasco Silvana , Romero Román Alejandra , Royuela Ana , Gil Barturen Mariana , Obiols Carme , Call Sergi , Royo Ínigo , Recuero José Luis , Cabanero Alberto , Moreno Nicolás , Embún Raúl ,   Spanish Group of Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery (GEVATS), Bolufer Sergio , Congregado Miguel , Jimenez Marcelo F , Aguinagalde Borja , Amor-Alonso Sergio , Arrarás Miguel Jesús , Orozco Ana Isabel Blanco , Boada Marc , Cal Isabel , Ramos Ángel Cilleruelo , Fernández-Martín Elena , García-Barajas Santiago , García-Jiménez María Dolores , García-Prim Jose María , Garcia-Salcedos José Alberto , Gelbenzu-Zazpe Juan José , Giraldo-Ospina Carlos Fernando , Hernández María Teresa Gómez , Hernández Jorge , Wolf Jennifer D Illana , Abularach Alberto Jáuregui , Jiménez Unai , Sanz Iker López , Martínez-Hernández Néstor J , Martínez-Téllez Elisabeth , Collado Lucía Milla , Poce Roberto Mongil , Moradiellos-Díez Francisco Javier , Moreno-Basalobre Ramón , Merino Sergio B Moreno , Quero-Valenzuela Florencio , Ramírez-Gil María Elena , Ramos-Izquierdo Ricard , Rivo Eduardo , Rodríguez-Fuster Alberto , Rojo-Marcos Rafael , Sanchez-Lorente David , Moreno Laura Sánchez , Simón Carlos , Trujillo-Reyes Juan Carlos , García Cipriano López , Alfara Juan José Fibla , Romero Julio Sesma , Trancho Florentino Hernando
Published: March 2022

OBJECTIVES

There is a wide variety of predictive models of postoperative risk, although some of them are specific to thoracic surgery, none of them is widely used. The European Society for Thoracic Surgery has recently updated its models of cardiopulmonary morbidity (Eurolung 1) and 30-day mortality (Eurolung 2) after anatomic lung resection. The aim of our work is to carry out the external validation of both models in a multicentre national database.

METHODS

External validation of Eurolung 1 and Eurolung 2 was evaluated through calibration (calibration plot, Brier score and Hosmer–Lemeshow test) and discrimination [area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC ROC)], on a national multicentre database of 2858 patients undergoing anatomic lung resection between 2016 and 2018.

RESULTS

For Eurolung 1, calibration plot showed suboptimal overlapping (slope = 0.921) and a Hosmer–Lemeshow test and Brier score of P = 0.353 and 0.104, respectively. In terms of discrimination, AUC ROC for Eurolung 1 was 0.653 (95% confidence interval, 0.623–0.684). In contrast, Eurolung 2 showed a good calibration (slope = 1.038) and a Hosmer–Lemeshow test and Brier score of P = 0.234 and 0.020, respectively. AUC ROC for Eurolung 2 was 0.760 (95% confidence interval, 0.701–0.819).

CONCLUSIONS

Thirty-day mortality score (Eurolung 2) seems to be transportable to other anatomic lung-resected patients. On the other hand, postoperative cardiopulmonary morbidity score (Eurolung 1) seems not to have sufficient generalizability for new patients.
The year in cardiovascular medicine 2021: imaging
Authors: Bucciarelli-Ducci Chiara , Ajmone-Marsan Nina , Di Carli Marcelo , Nicol Edward
Published: March 2022

This article reviews the most relevant literature published in 2021 on the role of cardiovascular imaging in cardiovascular medicine. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continued to impact the healthcare landscape, resulting in reduced access to hospital-based cardiovascular care including reduced routine diagnostic cardiovascular testing. However, imaging has also facilitated the understanding of the presence and extent of myocardial damage caused by the coronavirus infection. What has dominated the imaging literature beyond the pandemic are novel data on valvular heart disease, the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) applied to imaging, and the use of advanced imaging modalities in both ischaemic heart disease and cardiac amyloidosis.
Risk factors, cardiovascular disease, and mortality in South America: a PURE substudy
Authors: Lopez-Jaramillo Patricio , Joseph Philip , Lopez-Lopez Jose P , Lanas Fernando , Avezum Alvaro , Diaz Rafael , Camacho Paul A , Seron Pamela , Oliveira Gustavo , Orlandini Andres , Rangarajan Sumathy , Islam Shofiqul , Yusuf Salim
Published: March 2022

Aims

In a multinational South American cohort, we examined variations in CVD incidence and mortality rates between subpopulations stratified by country, by sex and by urban or rural location. We also examined the contributions of 12 modifiable risk factors to CVD development and to death.

Methods and results

This prospective cohort study included 24 718 participants from 51 urban and 49 rural communities in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia. The mean follow-up was 10.3 years. The incidence of CVD and mortality rates were calculated for the overall cohort and in subpopulations. Hazard ratios and population attributable fractions (PAFs) for CVD and for death were examined for 12 common modifiable risk factors, grouped as metabolic (hypertension, diabetes, abdominal obesity, and high non-HDL cholesterol), behavioural (tobacco, alcohol, diet quality, and physical activity), and others (education, household air pollution, strength, and depression). Leading causes of death were CVD (31.1%), cancer (30.6%), and respiratory diseases (8.6%). The incidence of CVD (per 1000 person-years) only modestly varied between countries, with the highest incidence in Brazil (3.86) and the lowest in Argentina (3.07). There was a greater variation in mortality rates (per 1000 person-years) between countries, with the highest in Argentina (5.98) and the lowest in Chile (4.07). Men had a higher incidence of CVD (4.48 vs. 2.60 per 1000 person-years) and a higher mortality rate (6.33 vs. 3.96 per 1000 person-years) compared with women. Deaths were higher in rural compared to urban areas. Approximately 72% of the PAF for CVD and 69% of the PAF for deaths were attributable to 12 modifiable risk factors. For CVD, largest PAFs were due to hypertension (18.7%), abdominal obesity (15.4%), tobacco use (13.5%), low strength (5.6%), and diabetes (5.3%). For death, the largest PAFs were from tobacco use (14.4%), hypertension (12.0%), low education (10.5%), abdominal obesity (9.7%), and diabetes (5.5%).

Conclusions

Cardiovascular disease, cancer, and respiratory diseases account for over two-thirds of deaths in South America. Men have consistently higher CVD and mortality rates than women. A large proportion of CVD and premature deaths could be averted by controlling metabolic risk factors and tobacco use, which are common leading risk factors for both outcomes in the region.
Expanding natural transformation to improve beneficial lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Di Giacomo Stefano , Toussaint Frédéric , Ledesma-García Laura , Knoops Adrien , Vande Capelle Florence , Fremaux Christophe , Horvath Philippe , Ladrière Jean-Marc , Ait-Abderrahim Hassina , Hols Pascal , Mignolet Johann
Published: March 2022

Nowadays, the growing human population exacerbates the need for sustainable resources. Inspiration and achievements in nutrient production or human/animal health might emanate from microorganisms and their adaptive strategies. Here, we exemplify the benefits of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) for numerous biotechnological applications and showcase their natural transformability as a fast and robust method to hereditarily influence their phenotype/traits in fundamental and applied research contexts. We described the biogenesis of the transformation machinery and we analyzed the genome of hundreds of LAB strains exploitable for human needs to predict their transformation capabilities. Finally, we provide a stepwise rational path to stimulate and optimize natural transformation with standard and synthetic biology techniques. A comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving natural transformation will facilitate and accelerate the improvement of bacteria with properties that serve broad societal interests.
Modelling of glucose repression signalling in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Persson Sebastian , Shashkova Sviatlana , Österberg Linnea , Cvijovic Marija
Published: March 2022

Saccharomyces cerevisiae has a sophisticated signalling system that plays a crucial role in cellular adaptation to changing environments. The SNF1 pathway regulates energy homeostasis upon glucose derepression; hence, it plays an important role in various processes, such as metabolism, cell cycle and autophagy. To unravel its behaviour, SNF1 signalling has been extensively studied. However, the pathway components are strongly interconnected and inconstant; therefore, elucidating its dynamic behaviour based on experimental data only is challenging. To tackle this complexity, systems biology approaches have been successfully employed. This review summarizes the progress, advantages and disadvantages of the available mathematical modelling frameworks covering Boolean, dynamic kinetic, single-cell models, which have been used to study processes and phenomena ranging from crosstalks to sources of cell-to-cell variability in the context of SNF1 signalling. Based on the lessons from existing models, we further discuss how to develop a consensus dynamic mechanistic model of the entire SNF1 pathway that can provide novel insights into the dynamics of nutrient signalling.
Race/Ethnic Differences, Skin Tone, and Memory Among Older Latinos in the United States
Authors: Liu Mao-Mei , Telles Edward , Tucker Katherine L , Falcon Luis M , Jiménez Velázquez Ivonne Z , Dow William H
Published: March 2022

Objectives

U.S. Latino populations are diverse. Research on racial identity, skin tone, and Latino health is imperative for understanding and combating racism and colorism. We examined differences in memory performance: among non-Latinos and Latinos who identified as Black, other, and White in the United States and then among Puerto Ricans in Boston whose skin tones ranged from dark, medium, light to “white.”

Methods

We used 2010 Health and Retirement Study and 2004 Boston Puerto Rican Health Survey data, respectively, to examine racial and color differences in memory performance among 50 and older adults in the United States and Puerto Rican older adults in Boston. We applied ordinary least squares regression to immediate and delayed word recall test scores and adjusted for education, health conditions, and health behaviors.

Results

In adjusted models, White non-Latinos had better memory performance than White Latinos. Black Latinos, other Latinos, and Black non-Latinos had lower delayed word recall scores than White Latinos. Black Latinos and Black non-Latinos had similar scores. Intra-Latino racial disparities endured despite the inclusion of education and other covariates. Among Puerto Ricans in Boston, medium-toned individuals had higher scores than “white”-toned individuals.

Discussion

Findings support the importance of examining self-identified race and skin tone in Latino aging research. Further investigation is needed to understand the stubborn intra-Latino racial disparities in memory performance and surprising adverse cognitive performance among “white”-toned relative to darker-toned Puerto Ricans in Boston.
Cervical Cancer Screening and Prevention among Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Bagwell-Gray Meredith E , Ramaswamy Megha
Published: March 2022

Women who experience intimate partner violence are an underserved population at risk for cervical cancer, precipitated by their heightened risk for human papilloma virus (HPV) and underutilization of gynecological care. This pilot study describes the self-reported behaviors, levels of knowledge, and perceived self-efficacy with cervical cancer screening (i.e., Pap testing) and prevention (i.e., HPV vaccination) among survivors (N = 30) recruited from two domestic violence shelter organizations in the midwestern United States. Survey results indicate a need for increased knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer and prevention strategies among this population; only 23 percent (n = 7) participants reported an up-to-date Pap test and 17 percent (n = 5) participants reported HPV vaccination. Findings also indicate how theoretical constructs from the health belief model, together with feminist understandings of coercive control and empowerment, might explain survivors’ proactive cervical health behaviors and offer insights for intervention.
Global health governance and the principle of subsidiarity: In defense of a robust decentralization approach
Authors: de Campos-Rudinsky Thana C , Canales Mariana
Published: March 2022

Global health governance (GHG) scholars have conventionally advocated for a stronger World Health Organization, able to better centralize power and authority in decision-making processes addressing global health challenges. What we call “the centralization approach to GHG reform” has not led to the best outcomes. In challenging the centralization approach and showing where it fails, this article argues for a decentralized GHG reform, predicated on the principle of subsidiarity, as an alternative. We offer an applied ethics analysis of the principle of subsidiarity, which contradicts the conventional wisdom of the centralization approach. This normative article not only opens up a new way in the global health literature of theorizing the long-standing debate on GHG reform, but it also offers a new lens for responding to the current backlash against multilateralism by substantiating the complementarity and cooperation among global health stakeholders in times of pandemics and beyond.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis in Vaccinated Patients: A Retrospective Case-Control Study and Analysis of Vaccination Field Effectiveness in Austria From 2000 to 2018
Authors: Santonja Isabel , Stiasny Karin , Essl Astrid , Heinz Franz X , Kundi Michael , Holzmann Heidemarie
Published: March 2022

Background

There are discrepant observations on the severity of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in vaccinated persons. We, therefore, analyzed the occurrence of severe and mild disease in hospitalized vaccinated and nonvaccinated patients with TBE and determined the field effectiveness (FE) of vaccination against these forms of disease.

Methods

The study covered all patients hospitalized with TBE in Austria from 2000 to 2018. Clinical diagnoses in vaccinated and age- and sex-matched nonvaccinated patients were compared in a nested case-control study. FE was calculated based on vaccination coverage and incidences in the nonvaccinated and vaccinated population.

Results

Of 1545 patients hospitalized with TBE, 206 were vaccinated. In those, a higher proportion of severe TBE was observed, especially in children. FE was high in all age groups and against all forms of disease. The higher proportion of severe TBE can be explained by a lower FE against severe than against mild disease, a difference especially pronounced in children (FE, 82.7% for severe vs 94.7% for mild disease).

Conclusions

The FE of TBE vaccination is excellent. The observed higher proportion of severe disease in vaccinated persons with TBE does not reflect a higher risk associated with vaccination but is rather due to a somewhat lower FE against severe TBE. Because this effect was more pronounced in children, we recommend adapting the immunization schedule.
Effect of sigma E on carbapenem resistance in OXA-48-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Cremanns Martina , Lange Felix , Gatermann Sören G. , Pfennigwerth Niels
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Resistance levels of Gram-negative bacteria producing OXA-48 carbapenemase can vary greatly and some of them can even be categorized as susceptible to imipenem and meropenem according to EUCAST breakpoints. This study aimed to reveal resistance mechanisms leading to varying levels of resistance to carbapenems in Klebsiella pneumoniae with blaOXA-48 submitted to the German National Reference Centre for MDR Gram-negative bacteria.

Methods

Meropenem-susceptible clinical blaOXA-48-bearing K. pneumoniae isolates were put under gradually increasing selective pressure of meropenem. Clinical isolates and spontaneous meropenem-resistant mutants were whole-genome sequenced with Illumina and Oxford Nanopore Technology. Identified mutations apart from porin mutations were genetically constructed in the original clinical isolates using CRISPR/Cas. Clinical isolates and mutants were analysed for MICs, growth rates and expression of porins on mRNA and protein levels.

Results

Mutations associated with meropenem resistance were predominantly found in ompK36, but in some cases ompK36 was unaffected. In two mutants, ISs within the rpoE (sigma factor E; σE) operon were detected, directly in or upstream of rseA. These IS1R elements were then inserted into the same position of the susceptible clinical isolates using CRISPR/Cas. CRISPR-rseA-rseB-rseC mutants showed higher resistance levels to carbapenems and cephalosporins, reduced growth rates and reduced expression of major porins OmpK36 and OmpK35 in quantitative RT–PCR and SDS-PAGE.

Conclusions

Enhanced synthesis of σE leads to increased resistance to cephalosporins and carbapenems in clinical K. pneumoniae isolates. This effect could be based upon remodelling of expression patterns of outer membrane proteins. The up-regulated σE stress response also leads to a significant reduction in growth rates.
A case report of ectopic pancreatic tissue in the gallbladder
Authors: Jansen van Rensburg Anzel , Raufian Kasra
Published: March 2022

Heterotropic pancreatic tissue is a rare entity where aberrant pancreatic tissue is located without any anatomical connection to the pancreas. It is usually reported to be found in stomach, duodenum, jejunum and spleen. Rare locations include lung, mediastinum, liver, mesentery, ileum, meckels diverticulum and gallbladder [1, 2]. This anomaly is often an incidental finding during laparotomy or autopsy. We describe a case of an elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy with the histology of the gallbladder showing focal ectopic pancreatic acinar tissue.
Health and illness in migrants and refugees arriving in Europe: analysis of the electronic Personal Health Record system
Authors: Zenner Dominik , Méndez Ana Requena , Schillinger Steffen , Val Elena , Wickramage Kolitha
Published: March 2022

Background

The electronic Personal Health Record (ePHR) is a health information system that registers health data on newly arriving migrants and was implemented in eight European countries (Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia). This is a cross-sectional study aimed to describe the health problems and health status of all migrants attended at health clinics as part of the health assessment programme established in the reception centres (2016–2019).

Methods

Data were collected on demographics, clinical and laboratory findings and diagnostics performed, including medical records. We classified all diseases using pre-specified algorithms according to information on pre-specified variables from the ePHR questionnaire, ICD-10 codes, positive laboratory findings or review of medical records. Crude proportions were calculated and odds ratios (OR) estimated using logistic regression modelling.

Results

The ePHR dataset contained a total of 19 564 clinical episodes in 14 436 individuals, recorded between January 2016 and October 2019. Most individuals (75%) were refugees or asylum seekers (22%) from 92 different nationalities. There were 2531/19 564 (12.9%) infectious diseases episodes reported during the study period, being 1283/2531 (50.7%) of them pharyngo-tonsillitis, 529 (20.9%) scabies, 158 (6.2%) viral hepatitis and 156(6.1%) lower respiratory infections. There were 2462 (17.1%) individuals with non-communicable diseases reported; including 821 (5.7%) cardiovascular diseases, 1183 (8.2%) neurological condition, 644 (4.5%) Diabetes mellitus and 212 (1.5%) kidney disease cases. Having Diabetes Mellitus (adjusted OR, aOR 3.3, [95% confidence interval, CI 2.7–4.1], P < 0.001), and neurological disorders (aOR 1.8, [95% CI 1.4–2.2], P < 0.001) were associated with cardiovascular disorders in the multivariable logistic regression model.

Mental health problems were reported in 641/14 436 (4.4%) individuals and were associated with increasing age. Furthermore, 610 episodes of acute injuries were reported among 585/14 436 (4.1%) people, 517 (88.4%) of them in men (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The ePHR is a valuable tool to efficiently collect health-related data to better address migrant health issues. We described a mostly healthy population with many acute infectious disease episodes particularly in children, but also with significant number of chronic conditions and less frequent injuries or mental health problems.
A Pilot Observational Study of Implementing an Equine-Assisted Services Program Within a VA Medical Center Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program
Authors: Marchand William R , Joubert Katryna , Smith Judy , Nazarenko Elena , Klinger William , Sheppard Stephen , Hoopes Karl H
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The aim of this observational pilot study was to assess the safety, feasibility, preliminary outcomes, and predictors of participant response as a result of implementing an equine-assisted intervention within a residential substance abuse treatment program at a large Veterans Administration medical center. A secondary aim was to evaluate psychological instruments for use in future, more rigorous studies. The overarching goal was to complete the necessary work to prepare for a large randomized controlled trial of this intervention for Veterans with addictive disorders.

Materials and Methods

Participants were 33 Veterans, 29 males and 4 females, who participated in one 4-hour session of combined equine-assisted learning and equine-assisted psychotherapy during an admission to a residential substance abuse treatment program. Preintervention and postintervention instruments were utilized to assess changes in affect, anxiety, and craving. Demographic and diagnostic variables were evaluated for the potential to predict outcomes.

Results

The intervention was safe and feasible to utilize as there were no adverse outcomes to patients, staff, or equines. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Craving Experience Questionnaire, and Positive and Negative Affect Scale revealed preliminary findings of significant preintervention to postintervention decreases in anxiety, negative affect, and craving, as well as increased positive affect. Lastly, the presence or absence of a history of suicide attempts and/or suicidal ideation were predictive of some postintervention scores.

Conclusion

While more rigorous studies are needed, these results indicate that the intervention evaluated in this study is safe and feasible to utilize for Veterans admitted to a residential substance abuse treatment program. Furthermore, preliminary outcomes suggest that this intervention, and perhaps other equine-assisted interventions, has the potential to be beneficial to Veterans with addictive disorders as well as those at risk of suicide. The psychological instruments used in this intervention appear to be appropriate for use in future investigations. Additionally, more rigorous studies are warranted, and this work provides the necessary first steps needed to proceed with those investigations.
The ALMA REBELS survey: the dust content of z ∼ 7 Lyman break galaxies
Authors: Dayal P , Ferrara A , Sommovigo L , Bouwens R , Oesch P A , Smit R , Gonzalez V , Schouws S , Stefanon M , Kobayashi C , Bremer J , Algera H S B , Aravena M , Bowler R A A , da Cunha E , Fudamoto Y , Graziani L , Hodge J , Inami H , De Looze I , Pallottini A , Riechers D , Schneider R , Stark D , Endsley R
Published: March 2022

We include a fully coupled treatment of metal and dust enrichment into the Delphi semi-analytic model of galaxy formation to explain the dust content of 13 Lyman break galaxies (LBGs) detected by the Atacama Large millimetre Array (ALMA) REBELS Large Program at z ≃ 7. We find that the galaxy dust mass, Md, is regulated by the combination of Type II supernova dust production, astration, shock destruction, and ejection in outflows; grain growth (with a standard time-scale τ0 = 30 Myr) plays a negligible role. The model predicts a dust-to-stellar mass ratio of $\sim 0.07\!-\!0.1{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ and a UV-to-total star formation rate relation such that log(ψUV) = −0.05 [log(ψ)]2 + 0.86 log(ψ) − 0.05 (implying that 55–80 per cent of the star formation is obscured) for REBELS galaxies with stellar mass $M_* = 10^{9}\!-\!10^{10} \rm M_\odot$. This relation reconciles the intrinsic UV luminosity of LBGs with their observed luminosity function at z = 7. However, 2 out of the 13 systems show dust-to-stellar mass ratios ($\sim 0.94\!-\!1.1{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$) that are up to 18 times larger than expected from the fiducial relation. Due to the physical coupling between dust and metal enrichment, even decreasing τ0 to very low values (0.3 Myr) only increases the dust-to-stellar mass ratio by a factor of ∼2. Given that grain growth is not a viable explanation for such high observed ratios of the dust-to-stellar mass, we propose alternative solutions.
The Smallest Scale of Hierarchy Survey (SSH) – II. Extended star formation and bar-like features in the dwarf galaxy NGC 3741: recent merger or ongoing gas accretion?
Authors: Annibali F , Bacchini C , Iorio G , Bellazzini M , Pascale R , Beccari G , Cignoni M , Ciotti L , Nipoti C , Sacchi E , Tosi M , Cusano F , Bisogni S , Gargiulo A , Paris D
Published: March 2022

Using Large Binocular Telescope deep imaging data from the Smallest Scale of Hierarchy Survey (SSH) and archival Hubble Space Telescope data, we reveal the presence of two elongated stellar features contiguous to a bar-like stellar structure in the inner regions of the dwarf irregular galaxy NGC 3741. These structures are dominated by stars younger than a few hundred Myr and collectively are about twice as extended as the old stellar component. These properties are very unusual for dwarf galaxies in the nearby Universe and difficult to explain by hydro-dynamical simulations. From the analysis of archival 21-cm observations, we find that the young stellar ‘bar’ coincides with an H i high-density region proposed by previous studies to be a purely gaseous bar; we furthermore confirm radial motions of a few km s−1, compatible with an inflow/outflow, and derive a steeply rising rotation curve and high H i surface density at the centre, indicating a very concentrated mass distribution. We propose that the peculiar properties of the stellar and gaseous components of NGC 3741 may be explained by a recent merger or ongoing gas accretion from the intergalactic medium, which caused gas inflows towards the galaxy centre and triggered star formation a few hundred Myr ago. This event may explain the young and extended stellar features, the bar-like structure, the very extended H i disc and the central H i spiral arms. The high central H i density and the steeply rising rotation curve suggest that NGC 3741 may be the progenitor or the descendant of a starburst dwarf.
Fast map-based simulations of systematics in CMB surveys including effects of the scanning strategy
Authors: McCallum Nialh , Thomas Daniel B , Brown Michael L
Published: March 2022

We present approaches to quickly simulate systematics affecting CMB observations, including the effects of the scanning strategy. Using summary properties of the scan, we capture features of full time ordered data (TOD) simulations, allowing maps and power spectra to be generated at much improved speed for a number of systematics – the cases we present experienced speed ups of 3–4 orders of magnitude when implementing the map-based approaches. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the approaches at capturing the salient features of the scan by directly comparing to full TOD simulations – seeing agreement at sub-per cent levels of accuracy. We simulate the effects of differential gain, pointing, and ellipticity to show the effectiveness of the approaches, but note that one could extend these techniques to other systematics. We finally show how to apply these fast map-based simulations of systematic effects to a full focal plane showing their ability to incorporate thousands of detectors as seen in modern CMB experiments.
The 6 × 2pt method: supernova velocities meet multiple tracers
Authors: Quartin Miguel , Amendola Luca , Moraes Bruno
Published: March 2022

We present a new methodology to analyse in a comprehensive way large-scale and supernova (or any other distance indicator) surveys. Our approach combines galaxy and supernova position and redshift data with supernova peculiar velocities, obtained through their magnitude scatter, to construct a 6 × 2pt analysis that includes six power spectra. The 3 × 3 correlation matrix of these spectra expresses exhaustively the information content of the surveys at the linear level. We then proceed to forecast the performance of future surveys like Legacy Survey of Space and Time and 4MOST with a Fisher matrix analysis, adopting both a model-dependent and a model-independent approach. We compare the performance of the 6 × 2pt approach to that of the traditional one using only galaxy clustering and some recently proposed combinations of galaxy and supernova data and quantify the possible gains by optimally extracting the linear information. We show that the 6 × 2pt method shrinks the uncertainty area in the $\sigma _8, \, \gamma$ plane by more than half when compared to the traditional method. The combined clustering and velocity data on the growth of structures have uncertainties at similar levels to those of the cosmic microwave background but exhibit orthogonal degeneracies, and the combined constraints yield improvements of factors of 5 or more in each of the five cosmological parameters considered here. Concerning the model-independent results, we find that our method can improve the constraints on H(z)/H0 in all redshift bins by more than 70 per cent with respect to the galaxy clustering alone and by 30 per cent when supernova velocities (but not clustering) are considered, reaching a precision of 3–4 per cent at high redshifts.
Detecting the power spectrum turnover with H i intensity mapping
Authors: Cunnington Steven
Published: March 2022

A goal for pathfinder intensity mapping (IM) surveys will be detecting features in the neutral hydrogen (${{\rm H}\, \small {\rm I}}$) power spectrum, which serve as conclusive evidence of cosmological signals. Observing such features at the expected scales in ${{\rm H}\, \small {\rm I}}$ IM autocorrelations, where contribution from systematics is uncertain, will provide a more convincing cosmological detection. We demonstrate how the turnover, i.e. the peak of the power spectrum at ultra-large scales, can be detected with ${{\rm H}\, \small {\rm I}}$ IM. We find that a MeerKAT 4000$\, \text{deg}^2$ survey using the UHF band is capable of a 3.1σ detection of the turnover, relative to a null model power spectrum with no turnover. This should exceed what is capable by current galaxy surveys in optical and near-infrared. The detection significance falls to ∼1σ in MeerKAT’s L band but can reach ∼13σ with the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO), which should easily surpass the constraintsno from future Stage-IV-like spectroscopic galaxy surveys. We also propose a new model-independent methodology for constraining the precise turnover scale (k0) and our tests on UHF-band simulated data achieved a precision of 10 per cent. This improved to 2.4 per cent when using the full SKAO. We demonstrate how the results are robust to foreground contamination by using transfer functions, even when an incorrect cosmology has been assumed in their construction. Given that the turnover is related to the horizon scale at matter–radiation equality, a sufficiently precise constraint of k0 presents the possibility for a novel probe of cosmology. We therefore present a potential methodology for constructing a standard-ruler-based distance measurement, independent of the sound horizon, using the turnover location in the ${{\rm H}\, \small {\rm I}}$ power spectrum.
Evaluation of copper uptake in individual spores of Streptomyces coelicolor and endogenic nanoparticles formation to modulate the secondary metabolism
Authors: García Cancela P , González Quiñónez N , Corte-Rodríguez M , Bettmer J , Manteca A , Montes-Bayón M
Published: March 2022

Copper modulates secondary metabolism in Streptomyces. Although the cytosolic copper concentration is controlled by several chaperones and transporters, the formation of copper nanoparticles (NPs) and its relation to the antibiotic production has never been established in the model Streptomyces coelicolor. In this work, state-of-the-art analytical tools are used to evaluate the incorporation of copper in individual spores of S. coelicolor at different exposure concentrations (40, 80, and 160 μM Cu). Among them, the use of single cell-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry revealed incorporation levels in the range of 2 to 2.5 fg/spore (median) increasing up to 4.75 fg/spore at the upper exposure concentrations. The copper storage within the spores in the form of NPs was evaluated using a combination of single particle-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and transmission electron microscopy. The obtained data confirmed the presence of NPs in the range of 8 to 40 (mean size 21 nm) inside S. coelicolor spores. The presence of the NPs was correlated with the actinorhodin production in liquid non-sporulating cultures amended with up to 80 μM Cu. However, further increase to 160 μM Cu, yielded to a significant decrease in antibiotic production. Secondary metabolism is activated under stressful conditions and cytosolic copper seems to be one of the signals triggering antibiotic production. Particularly, NP formation might contribute to modulate the secondary metabolism and prevent for copper toxicity. This work describes, for first time, the formation of endogenous copper NPs in S. coelicolor and reveals their correlation with the secondary metabolism.
Formal Hepatitis C Education Increases Willingness to Receive Therapy in an On-site Shelter-Based HCV Model of Care in Persons Experiencing Homelessness
Authors: Partida Diana , Powell Jesse , Ricco Margaret , Naugle Jessica , Magee Catherine , Zevin Barry , Masson Carmen L , Konadu Fokuo J , Gonzalez Daniel , Khalili Mandana
Published: March 2022

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of formal hepatitis C virus (HCV) education on engagement in therapy in persons experiencing homelessness in an on-site shelter-based model of care. As policies to eliminate Medicaid access restrictions to HCV treatment are expanded, patient education is paramount to achieving HCV elimination targets in difficult-to-engage populations including persons experiencing homelessness.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted at 4 shelters in San Francisco and Minneapolis from August 2018 to January 2021. Of the 162 HCV Ab–positive participants, 150 participated in a 30-minute HCV education session. Posteducation changes in knowledge, beliefs, barriers to care, and willingness to accept therapy scores were assessed.

Results

Following education, knowledge scores (mean change, 4.4 ± 4.4; P < .001) and willingness to accept therapy (70% to 86%; P = .0002) increased. Perceived barriers to HCV care decreased (mean change, –0.8 ± 5.2; P = .001). Higher baseline knowledge was associated with lesser gain in knowledge following education (coef., –0.7; P < .001). Posteducation knowledge (odds ratio, 1.2; P = .008) was associated with willingness to accept therapy.

Conclusions

An HCV educational intervention successfully increased willingness to engage in HCV therapy in persons experiencing homelessness in an on-site shelter-based HCV model of care.
Breast Cancer Treatment Delay in SafetyNet Health Systems, Houston Versus Southeast Brazil
Authors: Shafaee Maryam Nemati , Silva Leonardo Roberto , Ramalho Susana , Doria Maira Teixeira , De Andrade Natal Rodrigo , Cabello Victor , Cons Livia , Pavanello Marina , Zeferino Luiz Carlos , Mano Max S , Linck Rudinei Diogo Marques , Batista Leticia Souza , Pedro Estela Pantarotto , De Paula Bruno Henrique , Zuca-Matthes Gustavo , Podany Emily , Makawita Shalini , Ann Stewart Kelsey , Tsavachidis Spiridon , Tamimi Rull , Bondy Melissa , Debord Logan , Ellis Matthew , Bines Jose , Cabello Cesar
Published: March 2022

Background

Breast cancer outcomes among patients who use safety-net hospitals in the highly populated Harris County, Texas and Southeast Brazil are poor. It is unknown whether treatment delay contributes to these outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of patients with non-metastatic breast cancer diagnosed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2011 at Harris Health Texas and Unicamp’s Women’s Hospital, Barretos Hospital, and Brazilian National Institute of Cancer, Brazil. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to evaluate association of time to treatment and risk of recurrence (ROR) or death.

Results

One thousand one hundred ninety-one patients were included. Women in Brazil were more frequently diagnosed with stage III disease (32.3% vs. 21.1% Texas; P = .002). Majority of patients in both populations had symptom-detected disease (63% in Brazil vs. 59% in Texas). Recurrence within 5 years from diagnosis was similar 21% versus 23%. Median time from diagnosis to first treatment defined as either systemic therapy (chemotherapy or endocrine therapy) or surgery, were comparable, 9.9 weeks versus 9.4 weeks. Treatment delay was not associated with increased ROR or death. Higher stage at diagnosis was associated with both increased ROR and death.

Conclusion

Time from symptoms to treatment was considerably long in both populations. Treatment delay did not affect outcomes.

Impact

Access to timely screening and diagnosis of breast cancer are priorities in these populations.
Health care utilization and costs following Kawasaki disease
Authors: Robinson Cal , Chanchlani Rahul , Gayowsky Anastasia , Darling Elizabeth , Seow Hsien , Batthish Michelle
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a common childhood vasculitis with increasing incidence in Canada. Acute KD hospitalizations are associated with high health care costs. However, there is minimal health care utilization data following initial hospitalization. Our objective was to determine rates of health care utilization and costs following KD diagnosis.

Methods

We used population-based health administrative databases to identify all children (0 to 18 years) hospitalized for KD in Ontario between 1995 and 2018. Each case was matched to 100 nonexposed comparators by age, sex, and index year. Follow-up continued until death or March 2019. Our primary outcomes were rates of hospitalization, emergency department (ED), and outpatient physician visits. Our secondary outcomes were sector-specific and total health care costs.

Results

We compared 4,597 KD cases to 459,700 matched comparators. KD cases had higher rates of hospitalization (adjusted rate ratio 2.07, 95%CI 2.00 to 2.15), outpatient visits (1.30, 95%CI 1.28 to 1.33), and ED visits (1.22, 95%CI 1.18 to 1.26) throughout follow-up. Within 1 year post-discharge, 717 (15.6%) KD cases were re-hospitalized, 4,587 (99.8%) had ≥1 outpatient physician visit and 1,695 (45.5%) had ≥1 ED visit. KD cases had higher composite health care costs post-discharge (e.g., median cost within 1 year: $2466 CAD [KD cases] versus $234 [comparators]). Total health care costs for KD cases, respectively, were $13.9 million within 1 year post-discharge and $54.8 million throughout follow-up (versus $2.2 million and $23.9 million for an equivalent number of comparators).

Conclusions

Following diagnosis, KD cases had higher rates of health care utilization and costs versus nonexposed children. The rising incidence and costs associated with KD could place a significant burden on health care systems.