bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood unit segments accurately represent the biophysical properties of red blood cells in blood bags but not hemolysis
Authors: Islamzada Emel , Matthews Kerryn , Lamoureux Erik , Duffy Simon P. , Scott Mark D. , Ma Hongshen
Published: December 2021

Background

The biophysical properties of red blood cells (RBCs) provide potential biomarkers for the quality of donated blood. Blood unit segments provide a simple and nondestructive way to sample RBCs in clinical studies of transfusion efficacy, but it is not known whether RBCs sampled from segments accurately represent the biophysical properties of RBCs in blood bags.

Study Design and Methods

RBCs were sampled from blood bags and segments every two weeks during 8 weeks of storage at 4°C. RBC deformability was measured by deformability‐based sorting using the microfluidic ratchet device in order to derive a rigidity score. Standard hematological parameters, including mean corpuscular volume (MCV), red cell distribution width (RDW), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and hemolysis were measured at the same time points.

Results

Deformability of RBCs stored in blood bags was retained over 4 weeks storage, but a progressive loss of deformability was observed at weeks 6 and 8. This trend was mirrored in blood unit segments with a strong correlation to the blood bag data. Strong correlations were also observed between blood bag and segment for MCV, MCHC, and MCH but not for hemolysis.

Conclusion

RBCs sampled from blood unit segments accurately represent the biophysical properties of RBCs in blood bags but not hemolysis. Blood unit segments provide a simple and nondestructive sample for measuring RBC biophysical properties in clinical studies.
Growth of flat-topped, mound-shaped grains with voids when depositing silver thin films at high substrate temperatures using direct-current magnetron sputtering
Authors: Kusano Eiji
Published: December 2021

Thin films of silver were deposited on nonalkali glass substrates at substrate temperatures ranging from room temperature (28 °C) to 150, 200, 300, 400, and 500 °C at discharge pressures of 0.40, 1.20, and 2.00 Pa using direct current magnetron sputtering. On the basis of the measured cross-sectional and surface morphologies, crystallographic structures, and film properties, I discuss the dependence of the film structure and properties on the substrate temperature. The x-ray diffraction measurements showed that the <111> orientation was preferred for all deposition conditions. Scanning electron microscope observations revealed a microstructure of convex-shaped fine grains for a substrate at room temperature, while laterally growing, mound-shaped grains with flat-topped surfaces appeared at substrate temperatures of 400 and 500 °C. Atomic force microscopy also showed an increase in the lateral size and height of the mound-shaped structures with increasing substrate temperature. The lateral grain size evaluated from the areal particle density obtained from atomic force microscopy increased significantly with increasing substrate temperature, reaching 600–800 nm at a substrate temperature of 500 °C. The film stress also changed from compressive to tensile with increasing substrate temperature. The relative density, defined as the ratio of the deposited amount-of-substance to the physical-thickness, decreased significantly with increasing substrate temperature and, at a substrate temperature of 500 °C, was approximately 0.6 times as large as that obtained for thin films deposited at room temperature. The high surface diffusivity of the Ag adatoms induces the growth of laterally growing, mound-shaped grains. Besides, the energy accumulated in the thin films during sputter deposition induces the void formation to increase the efficiency of energy release in the form of heat.
Cooperative Classrooms and Academic Performance in Physical Education: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: León Benito , Fernandez-Rio Javier , Rivera-Pérez Sergio , Iglesias Damián
Published: December 2021

Purpose: The aim was to assess how two contextual variables, number of students per class and in-class global cooperation, affect students’ academic performance in physical education. Method: Multilevel analysis was performed given the data’s hierarchical nature (L1 = 1,185 participants and L2 = 64 classrooms), including regression analysis to assess how the contextual variables at the classroom level affected students’ grades. Results: Results showed that the differences observed between classrooms in students’ academic performance can be attributed largely to the perceived in-class global cooperation and not to the number of students per class. Group processing, promotive interaction, and individual accountability were the strongest predictors because these cooperative learning essential elements showed significant differences between classrooms. Discussion/Conclusion: Academic performance in physical education is not only determined by personal factors but also by contextual factors like perceived in-class cooperation. Group processing, promotive interaction, and individual accountability can be considered the most relevant critical features. Cooperative learning contexts are not easy to build, and depending on how successfully they are constructed, the outcomes can be very different.
TREM-2 is a sensor and activator of T cell response in SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Wu Yongjian , Wang Manni , Yin Huan , Ming Siqi , Li Xingyu , Jiang Guanmin , Liu Ye , Wang Peihui , Zhou Guangde , Liu Lei , Gong Sitang , Zhou Haibo , Shan Hong , Huang Xi
Published: December 2021

TREM-2 recognizes SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein and activates CD3ζ/ZAP70/STAT1 signal pathway to induce antiviral T
H
1 response.
Genome-editing prodrug: Targeted delivery and conditional stabilization of CRISPR-Cas9 for precision therapy of inflammatory disease
Authors: Yan Xiaojie , Pan Qi , Xin Huhu , Chen Yuxuan , Ping Yuan
Published: December 2021

Targeted delivery of genome-editing prodrug by nonviral vectors promotes precision therapy of inflammatory bowel disease.
Injury-induced ASCL1 expression orchestrates a transitory cell state required for repair of the neonatal cerebellum
Authors: Bayin N. Sumru , Mizrak Dogukan , Stephen Daniel N. , Lao Zhimin , Sims Peter A. , Joyner Alexandra L.
Published: December 2021

ASCL1 is induced in a glial progenitor by cerebellar injury and directs adaptive reprograming to replace granule neurons.
Time-independent harmonics dispersion relation for time-evolving nonlinear waves
Authors: Khajehtourian Romik , Hussein Mahmoud I.
Published: December 2021

The inner makings of an evolving or balanced nonlinear wave are revealed by the discovery of the harmonics dispersion relation.
Inflammation causes remodeling of mitochondrial cytochrome
c
oxidase mediated by the bifunctional gene
C15orf48
Authors: Clayton Sally A. , Daley Kalbinder K. , MacDonald Lucy , Fernandez-Vizarra Erika , Bottegoni Giovanni , O’Neil John D. , Major Triin , Griffin Daniel , Zhuang Qinqin , Adewoye Adeolu B. , Woolcock Kieran , Jones Simon W. , Goodyear Carl , Elmesmari Aziza , Filer Andrew , Tennant Daniel A. , Alivernini Stefano , Buckley Christopher D. , Pitceathly Robert D. S. , Kurowska-Stolarska Mariola , Clark Andrew R.
Published: December 2021

Exchange of mitochondrial subunits C15ORF48 and NDUFA4 occurs during macrophage activation in vitro and in inflammatory disease.
Slow-wave sleep affects synucleinopathy and regulates proteostatic processes in mouse models of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Morawska Marta M. , Moreira Carlos G. , Ginde Varun R. , Valko Philipp O. , Weiss Tobias , Büchele Fabian , Imbach Lukas L. , Masneuf Sophie , Kollarik Sedef , Prymaczok Natalia , Gerez Juan A. , Riek Roland , Baumann Christian R. , Noain Daniela
Published: December 2021

Slow-wave modulation alters synuclein accumulation and regulates proteostatic pathways in Parkinson’s disease mice.
Transcriptome Analysis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Infection in an
Ex Vivo
Pig Model of the Cystic Fibrosis Lung
Authors: Harrington Niamh E. , Littler Jenny L. , Harrison Freya
Published: December 2021

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
lung infections that affect people with cystic fibrosis are resistant to most available antimicrobial treatments. The lack of a laboratory model that captures all key aspects of these infections hinders not only research progression but also clinical diagnostics.
Mechanistic Basis for Understanding the Dual Activities of the Bifunctional Azotobacter vinelandii Mannuronan C-5-Epimerase and Alginate Lyase AlgE7
Authors: Gaardløs Margrethe , Heggeset Tonje Marita Bjerkan , Tøndervik Anne , Tezé David , Svensson Birte , Ertesvåg Helga , Sletta Håvard , Aachmann Finn Lillelund
Published: December 2021

Postharvest valorization and upgrading of algal constituents are promising strategies in the development of a sustainable bioeconomy based on algal biomass. In this respect, alginate epimerases and lyases are valuable enzymes for tailoring the functional properties of alginate, a polysaccharide extracted from brown seaweed with numerous applications in food, medicine, and material industries.
Mechanical Capsid Maturation Facilitates the Resolution of Conflicting Requirements for Herpesvirus Assembly
Authors: Evilevitch Alex , Sae-Ueng Udom
Published: December 2021

The minor capsid protein UL25 plays a critical role in the mechanical maturation of the HSV-1 capsid during virus assembly and is required for stable DNA packaging. We modulated the UL25 capsid interactions by genetically deleting different UL25 regions and quantifying the effect on mechanical capsid stability using an atomic force microscopy (AFM) nanoindentation approach.
Bryostatin-1 Decreases HIV-1 Infection and Viral Production in Human Primary Macrophages
Authors: Hany Laurent , Turmel Marc-Olivier , Barat Corinne , Ouellet Michel , Tremblay Michel J.
Published: December 2021

HIV-1 persists in a cellular latent form despite therapy that quickly propagates infection upon treatment interruption. Reversing latency would contribute to eradicate these cells, closing the gap to a cure.
The Basal Complex Protein PfMORN1 Is Not Required for Asexual Replication of Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Moran Colleen J. , Dvorin Jeffrey D.
Published: December 2021

Plasmodium falciparum
parasites cause the most severe form of human malaria. During the clinically relevant blood stage of its life cycle, the parasites divide via schizogony.
c-di-GMP Inhibits Early Sporulation in Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Edwards Adrianne N. , Willams Caitlin L. , Pareek Nivedita , McBride Shonna M. , Tamayo Rita
Published: December 2021

Many bacterial organisms utilize the small signaling molecule cyclic diguanylate (c-di-GMP) to regulate important physiological processes, including motility, toxin production, biofilm formation, and colonization. c-di-GMP inhibits motility and toxin production and promotes biofilm formation and colonization in the anaerobic, gastrointestinal pathogen
Clostridioides difficile
. However, the impact of c-di-GMP on
C. difficile
spore formation, a critical step in this pathogen’s life cycle, is unknown.
Phenotypic Switching and Filamentation in Candida haemulonii, an Emerging Opportunistic Pathogen of Humans
Authors: Deng Yuchen , Li Shuaihu , Bing Jian , Liao Wanqing , Tao Li
Published: December 2021

The capacity to switch between distinct cell types, known as phenotypic switching, is a common strategy adopted by
Candida
species to adapt to diverse environments. Despite considerable studies on phenotypic plasticity of various
Candida
species,
Candida haemulonii
is considered to be incapable of phenotypic switching or filamentous growth.
Evaluation of Rapid Immunochromatographic Tests for the Direct Detection of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamases and Carbapenemases in Enterobacterales Isolated from Positive Blood Cultures
Authors: Keshta Ahmed S. , Elamin Nazik , Hasan Mohammad Rubayet , Pérez-López Andrés , Roscoe Diane , Tang Patrick , Suleiman Mohammed
Published: December 2021

The incidence of bloodstream infections (BSI) with extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing and carbapenemase producing Enterobacterales (CPE) is increasing at an alarming rate, for which only limited therapeutic options remain available. Rapid identification of these bacteria along with their antibiotic resistance mechanisms in positive blood cultures with Gram-negative bacteria will allow for early initiation of effective therapy and limit the overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics in BSI (1).
A Cold Chain-Independent Specimen Collection and Transport Medium Improves Diagnostic Sensitivity and Minimizes Biosafety Challenges of COVID-19 Molecular Diagnosis
Authors: Saini Vikram , Kalra Priya , Sharma Manish , Rai Chhavi , Saini Vikas , Gautam Kamini , Bhattacharya Sankar , Mani Shailendra , Saini Kanchan , Kumar Sunil
Published: December 2021

Approximately forty-four percent of the global population lives in villages, including 59% in Africa (
https://unhabitat.org/World%20Cities%20Report%202020
). The fast-evolving nature of SARS-CoV-2 and its extremely contagious nature warrant early and accurate COVID-19 diagnostics across rural and urban population as a key to prevent viral transmission. Unfortunately, lack of adequate infrastructure, including the availability of biosafety-compliant facilities and an end-to-end cold chain availability for COVID-19 molecular diagnosis, limits the accessibility of testing in these countries.
Novel Tet(L) Efflux Pump Variants Conferring Resistance to Tigecycline and Eravacycline in Staphylococcus Spp.
Authors: Wang Nannan , Li Dexi , Schwarz Stefan , Qin Shangshang , Yao Hong , Du Xiang-Dang
Published: December 2021

Tigecycline and eravacycline are both important last-resort broad spectrum antimicrobial agents. The presence of novel Tet(L) efflux pump variants conferring the resistance to tigecycline and eravacycline in
Staphylococcus
spp. and its potential transmission to
S. aureus
will compromise the efficacy of tigecycline and eravacycline treatment for
S. aureus
associated infection
in vivo
and may lead to clinical treatment failure.
Clinical and Microbiological Characteristics of Recurrent Escherichia coli Bacteremia
Authors: Kobayashi Tatsuya , Ikeda Mahoko , Okada Yuta , Higurashi Yoshimi , Okugawa Shu , Moriya Kyoji
Published: December 2021

Escherichia coli
causes bloodstream infection, although not all strains are pathogenic to humans. In some cases, this infection reoccurs, and several reports have described the clinical characteristics and/or molecular microbiology of recurrent
Escherichia coli
bacteremia.
Emerging Opportunity and Destiny of
mcr-1
- and
tet
(X4)-Coharboring Plasmids in Escherichia coli
Authors: Lu Xiaoyu , Xiao Xia , Liu Yuan , Li Ruichao , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: December 2021

Tigecycline and colistin are used as last-resort therapies to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria. However, the emergence of the plasmid-mediated tigecycline resistance gene
tet
(X4) and the plasmid-mediated colistin resistance gene
mcr-1
represents a significant threat to human health.
The Archaeal Transcription Termination Factor aCPSF1 is a Robust Phylogenetic Marker for Archaeal Taxonomy
Authors: Li Jie , Zheng Xiaowei , Li Lingyan , Zhang Shengjie , Ren Mifang , Huang Li , Dong Xiuzhu
Published: December 2021

Archaea represent a unique type of prokaryote, which inhabit in various environments including extreme environments, and so define the boundary of biosphere, and play pivotal ecological roles, particularly in extreme environments. Since their discovery over 40 years ago, environmental archaea have been widely investigated using the 16S rRNA sequence comparison, and the recently developed phylogenomic approach because the majority of archaea are recalcitrant to laboratory cultivation.
Analysis of the ARTIC Version 3 and Version 4 SARS-CoV-2 Primers and Their Impact on the Detection of the G142D Amino Acid Substitution in the Spike Protein
Authors: Davis James J. , Long S. Wesley , Christensen Paul A. , Olsen Randall J. , Olson Robert , Shukla Maulik , Subedi Sishir , Stevens Rick , Musser James M.
Published: December 2021

ARTIC Network primers are commonly used by laboratories worldwide to amplify and sequence SARS-CoV-2 present in clinical samples. As new variants have evolved and spread, it was found that the V3 primer set poorly amplified several key mutations.
Central nervous system involvement of anaplasmosis
Authors: Mullholand Jon Brandon , Tolman Nathanial , De Obaldia Anna , Hennrikus Eileen
Published: December 2021

A 64-year-old woman presented with 24 hours of lethargy, confusion, headache, nausea and vomiting. Examination revealed expressive aphasia, conjunctival suffusion and a tick embedded in her popliteal fossa. Labs revealed hyponatraemia, transaminitis, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia and an elevated C reactive protein. Peripheral blood smear was unremarkable. MRI/magnetic resonance angiogram revealed bilateral frontoparietal subarachnoid haemorrhage which was further confirmed by lumbar puncture which revealed six nucleated cells, 92% lymphocytes, 1460 red blood cells, normal glucose and protein and negative cryptococcal antigen, herpes simplex PCR and Lyme PCR. Serum Lyme IgG/IgM antibodies and PCR,Erlichia chaffeensisserum IgG/IgM antibodies and PCR and anaplasma serum IgG/IgM antibodies were negative. Anaplasmosis serum PCR was positive. The tick was identified asIxodes scapularis. The patient was diagnosed with anaplasmosis and treated with 21 days of doxycycline resulting in improvement of symptoms, but lingering headaches and word finding difficulties.
Giant cell arteritis complicated by tongue necrosis and bilateral cerebellar ischaemic stroke
Authors: Rose Emily Charlotte , Carroll Liam Stuart , Evans Sue , Mason Alice
Published: December 2021

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) typically presents with headache, scalp tenderness or visual disturbance. Other symptoms include orofacial pain, constitutional symptoms and ischaemic stroke. An 81-year-old woman with a background of type-2 diabetes and hypertension presented with headache, oral pain and right visual loss. Examination showed hypertension, nodular temporal arteries, reduced visual acuity and suspected oral candida. Inflammatory markers were raised and she was diagnosed with GCA and commenced on corticosteroids. During treatment she developed tongue ulceration, then acute vertigo and incoordination with nystagmus and ataxia. Neuroimaging confirmed bilateral, cerebellar ischaemic strokes and temporal artery biopsy was consistent with GCA. With corticosteroids and secondary prevention of stroke measures she is now functionally independent. Oral pain is an uncommon symptom of GCA and delays in recognition may lead to catastrophic consequences. Clinicians should be aware of uncommon presentations and to optimise additional ischaemic stroke risk-factors.
Hypercalcaemia associated with disseminated cryptococcosis
Authors: Aziz Hazwani , Adam Noor Lita , Karim Nor Afidah
Published: December 2021

We report an elderly man who presented with giddiness and right-sided weakness, constipation and constitutional symptoms for 6 months duration. Blood investigations indicated hypercalcaemia with normal serum phosphate and acute kidney injury. Serum intact parathyroid hormone was suppressed. CT revealed bilateral tiny lung nodules with right upper lobe tree in bud appearance and incidental findings of bilateral adrenal lesion. Tuberculosis was ruled out. CT adrenal showed multiseptated hypodense rim enhancement adrenal lesion bilaterally. Adrenal function tests were normal except for low dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Right-sided cervical lymph node biopsy confirmed fungal infection with the presence of intracellular and extracellular fungal yeast. Serum cryptococcus antigen titre was positive. Our final diagnosis was disseminated cryptococcosis with lungs, bilateral adrenal gland and lymph nodes involvement. The patient was then treated with antifungal treatment. Serum calcium was normalised after 1 month with marked clinical improvement.
Starvation ketoacidosis and refeeding syndrome
Authors: Boal Angela Heulwen , Panarelli Maurizio , Millar Caroline
Published: December 2021

Starvation ketoacidosis (SKA) is a rarer cause of ketoacidosis. Most patients will only have a mild acidosis, but if exacerbated by stress can result in a severe acidosis. We describe a 66-year-old man admitted with reduced consciousness and found to have a severe metabolic acidosis with raised anion gap. His body mass index (BMI) was noted to be within the healthy range at 23 kg/m2; however, it was last documented 1 year previously at 28 kg/m2with no clear timeframe of weight loss. While his acidosis improved with intravenous fluids, he subsequently developed severe electrolyte imbalance consistent with refeeding during his admission. Awareness of SKA as a cause for high anion gap metabolic acidosis is important and knowledge of management including intravenous fluids, thiamine, dietetic input and electrolyte replacement is vital.
Symptomatic second-degree atrioventricular block in a recreational athlete
Authors: Gandhi Manisha , Thomas Honey
Published: December 2021

This case study provides an example of bradycardia associated with an increase in exercise training in a recreational athlete. Although recognised among high-level endurance athletes, this case demonstrates the potential negative effects of exercise on the heart in a patient participating in the levels of exercise recommended by Public Health England. It adds weight to the ongoing discussion of the incomplete understanding of the level of exercise needed to induce pathological changes in cardiac physiology. We discuss the investigations that led us to our diagnosis, highlighting the importance of a detailed exercise history in patients who present with palpitations and provide a potential explanation of how this phenomenon may have occurred. Currently, bradycardia induced by exercise has been managed through pacemaker insertion or complete cessation of exercise. This report demonstrates effective treatment through a period of exercise cessation and slow reintroduction of exercise training.
Rhinovirus induced bronchiolitis and ARDS in pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Revell Elliot , Glasbey Madeleine , Brown Peter
Published: December 2021

A 25-year-old woman in her 30th week of pregnancy presented with a 3-day history of fevers, productive cough and dyspnoea. On presentation she was tachypnoeic, tachycardic and hypoxic. Auscultation of the chest revealed widespread wheeze and crepitations at the right mid-zone. Despite initial treatment with intravenous antibiotics, nebulised bronchodilators and oral corticosteroids, the patient continued to deteriorate and required transfer to intensive care. Serial chest radiographs showed increasing bilateral alveolar densities consistent with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The only positive investigation was a nasopharyngeal swab which revealed rhinovirus RNA. With supportive management, the patient made a full recovery and went on to deliver a healthy infant at 36 weeks gestation. This case explores human rhinoviruses-induced ARDS and highlights the clinical and diagnostic challenges posed by pregnancy in the critically unwell patient.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis: an unusual cause of vesicular rashes in a neonate
Authors: Wee Liang Yi Justin , Ngeow Alvin , Koh Mark
Published: December 2021

The skin manifestations of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) in the neonate have a heterogenous presentation and can mimic other causes of neonatal rashes. We report an uncommon case of LCH in a term female neonate presenting with non-specific papules and vesicles from the first day of life. There was a maternal history of genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection in the third trimester. Blood, cerebrospinal fluid, surface swabs and vesicular fluid were negative for HSV by PCR, and a skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of LCH. Further investigations for systemic involvement returned negative. Our case emphasises the variable and non-specific presentation of neonatal cutaneous LCH, which can progress to or be part of multisystem disease.
Clinical and biochemical profile of 786 sequential episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ooi Emma , Nash Katrina , Rengarajan Lakshmi , Melson Eka , Thomas Lucretia , Johnson Agnes , Zhou Dengyi , Wallett Lucy , Ghosh Sandip , Narendran Parth , Kempegowda Punith
Published: December 2021

Introduction

We explored the clinical and biochemical differences in demographics, presentation and management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Research design and methods

This observational study included all episodes of DKA from April 2014 to September 2020 in a UK tertiary care hospital. Data were collected on diabetes type, demographics, biochemical and clinical features at presentation, and DKA management.

Results

From 786 consecutive DKA, 583 (75.9%) type 1 diabetes and 185 (24.1%) type 2 diabetes episodes were included in the final analysis. Those with type 2 diabetes were older and had more ethnic minority representation than those with type 1 diabetes. Intercurrent illness (39.8%) and suboptimal compliance (26.8%) were the two most common precipitating causes of DKA in both cohorts. Severity of DKA as assessed by pH, glucose and lactate at presentation was similar in both groups. Total insulin requirements and total DKA duration were the same (type 1 diabetes 13.9 units (9.1–21.9); type 2 diabetes 13.9 units (7.7–21.1); p=0.4638). However, people with type 2 diabetes had significantly longer hospital stay (type 1 diabetes: 3.0 days (1.7–6.1); type 2 diabetes: 11.0 days (5.0–23.1); p<0.0001).

Conclusions

In this population, a quarter of DKA episodes occurred in people with type 2 diabetes. DKA in type 2 diabetes presents at an older age and with greater representation from ethnic minorities. However, severity of presentation and DKA duration are similar in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, suggesting that the same clinical management protocol is equally effective. People with type 2 diabetes have longer hospital admission.
Four decades of epidemiological data reveal trajectories towards malaria elimination in Kheda district (Gujarat), western part of India
Authors: Baharia Rajendra Kumar , Yadav Chander Prakash , Sharma Amit
Published: December 2021

Background

Malaria is a main public health problem in India and was so particularly in the state of Gujarat in the western part of the country. This study assesses the effects of various interventions on malaria cases using data from the last 33 years (1987–2019).

Methods

Here we have analysed 33 years of malaria epidemiological data from a malaria clinic in Kheda district in Gujarat. The data were digitised yearly and monthly, age-wise and gender-wise, and descriptive analysis was performed to assess the effects of several interventions on malaria burden.

Results

During 1987–2019, our clinic diagnosed 5466Plasmodium vivaxand 4732P. falciparummalaria cases. Overall, there was a declining trend in malaria cases except for the years 1991, 1994, 2004 and 2005. The year 2004 especially witnessed an epidemic in Kheda as well as throughout Gujarat. Malaria infections were most common (40%) among the 21–40 years age group. Fever was the most common symptom in all age groups.

Interpretation

Introduction of revised drug policy and improved surveillance technique (rapid diagnosis kits) have strengthened the diagnosis and treatment of malaria in the district. Use of pyrethroid in indoor residual insecticide spray has also strengthened vector control. Among the various interventions used, long-lasting insecticide nets and introduction of artemisinin-based combination therapy have played significant roles in controlling malaria cases. A more drastic decline inP. falciparumcases versusP. vivaxis evident, but the latter persists in high proportions and therefore new tools for malaria control will be needed for elimination.
Intimate partner violence among reproductive-age women with chronic mental illness attending a psychiatry outpatient department: cross-sectional facility-based study, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Zerihun Tigist , Tesfaye Markos , Deyessa Negussie , Bekele Delayehu
Published: December 2021

Objective

To determine the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV), and associated factors, in reproductive-aged women attending psychiatric outpatient departments.

Design

Cross-sectional facility-based study.

Setting

Outpatient psychiatric clinics of public hospitals in Addis Ababa.

Participants

Reproductive aged women with chronic mental illness (CMI) who attended follow-up in psychiatric outpatient clinics.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The data were collected using a multi-culturally validated instrument from randomly sampled women with CMI. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with IPV.

Result

Four hundred and twenty-two women who were attending the psychiatric outpatient clinics took part in the study. The majority of participants 62.0% (95% CI 56.1 to 68.8) experienced IPV at least once in their lifetime. The most common form of IPV experienced by women was emotional violence (60%; 95% CI 55.0 to 64.7). One hundred and eighty-six (44.1%; (95% CI 39.3 to 48.8)) respondents experienced physical or sexual violence during the last year. A history of divorce (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]=5.64; 95% CI 2.75 to 11.56) and having a mental illness for more than 5 years (AOR=2.23; 95% CI 1.26 to 3.93) were associated with any form of IPV.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of IPV among women attending psychiatric outpatient services highlights the need to routinely inquire about IPV and develop effective strategies to prevent it among this vulnerable group.
Safety and tolerability of a single infusion of autologous ex vivo expanded regulatory T cells in adults with ulcerative colitis (ER-TREG 01): protocol of a phase 1, open-label, fast-track dose-escalation clinical trial
Authors: Voskens Caroline J , Stoica Diane , Roessner Susanne , Vitali Francesco , Zundler Sebastian , Rosenberg Marita , Wiesinger Manuel , Wunder Jutta , Siegmund Britta , Schuler-Thurner Beatrice , Schuler Gerold , Berking Carola , Atreya Raja , Neurath Markus F
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Accumulating evidence suggests that the adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded regulatory T cells (Treg) may overcome colitogenic immune responses in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. The objective of the ER-TREG 01 trial is to assess safety and tolerability of a single infusion of autologous ex vivo expanded Treg in adults with ulcerative colitis.

Methods and analysis

The study is designed as a single-arm, fast-track dose-escalation trial. The study will include 10 patients with ulcerative colitis. The study intervention consists of (1) a baseline visit; (2) a second visit that includes a leukapheresis to generate the investigational medicinal product, (3) a third visit to infuse the investigational medicinal product and (4) five subsequent follow-up visits within the next 26 weeks to assess safety and tolerability. Patients will intravenously receive a single dose of 0.5×106, 1×106, 2×106, 5×106 or 10×106autologous Treg/kg body weight. The primary objective is to define the maximum tolerable dose of a single infusion of autologous ex vivo expanded Treg. Secondary objectives include the evaluation of safety of one single infusion of autologous ex vivo expanded Treg, efficacy assessment and accompanying immunomonitoring to measure Treg function in the peripheral blood and intestinal mucosa.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany (number 417_19 Az). In addition, the study was approved by the Paul-Ehrlich Institute, Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines, Langen, Germany (number 3652/01). The study is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG, KFO 257 project 08 and SFB/TransRegio 241 project C04). The trial will be conducted in compliance with this study protocol, the Declaration of Helsinki, Good Clinical Practice and Good Manufacturing Practice. The results will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and disseminated in scientific conferences and media.

Trial registration number

NCT04691232.
Use of interrupted time-series analysis to characterise antibiotic prescription fills across pregnancy: a Norwegian nationwide cohort study
Authors: Trinh Nhung Thi Hong , Hjorth Sarah , Nordeng Hedvig Marie Egeland
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Antibiotics are the most frequently prescribed medications for pregnant and breastfeeding women. We applied interrupted time-series analysis (ITSA) to describe antibiotic prescription fills patterns in pregnant women and examined recurrent antibiotic fills in subsequent pregnancies.

Designs

A population-based drug utilisation study.

Setting

Norwegian primary care.

Participants

653 058 pregnancies derived from Medical Birth Registry of Norway linked to the Norwegian Prescription Database (2006–2016).

Main outcome measure

Proportion of pregnancies exposed to antibiotics aggregated by week in pregnancy time windows.

Statistical analyses

We descriptively analysed antibiotic prescription fills patterns and components in pregnant women. The changes in antibiotic fills in pregnancy time windows were assessed using ITSA. Interruptions points at week 4 to week 7 into pregnancy and delivery were used. Factors associated with antibiotic fills during pregnancy were identified using generalised estimating equations for Poisson regression. Recurrent antibiotic use was estimated using proportion of women who filled antibiotic prescription in a subsequent pregnancy.

Results

Antibiotics were filled in 27.6% pregnancies. The ITSA detected an immediate decrease of 0.07 percentage points (95% CI −0.13 to –0.01) in the proportion of exposed pregnancies at 4 weeks after conception, mainly among women taking folic acid before pregnancy. This proportion increased shortly after delivery (immediate change=1.61 percentage points (95% CI 0.31 to 2.91)) then decreased gradually afterwards (change in slope=−0.19 percentage points, 95% CI −0.34 to –0.05)). The strongest factor associated with antibiotic fills during pregnancy was having recurrent urinary tract infections (adjusted OR=2.65, 95% CI 2.59 to 2.72). Women who had filled antibiotics during a pregnancy were up to three times more likely to fill antibiotics in the subsequent pregnancies.

Conclusions

ITSA highlighted important impact of pregnancy and delivery on antibiotic fillings. Having antibiotic fills in a pregnancy was associated with recurrent antibiotic fills in subsequent ones.
Cost-effectiveness of human papillomavirus vaccine in China: a systematic review of modelling studies
Authors: Shi Wenchuan , Cheng Xiaoli , Wang Haitao , Zang Xiao , Chen Tingting
Published: December 2021

Objectives

China suffers from high burdens of human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, whereas the uptake of HPV vaccine remains low. The first Chinese domestic HPV vaccine was released in 2019. However, collective evidence on cost-effectiveness of HPV vaccination in China has yet to be established. We summarised evidence on the cost-effectiveness of HPV vaccine in China.

Design

Systematic review and narrative synthesis

Data sources

PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang Data were searched through 2 January 2021

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Cost-effectiveness studies using a modelling approach focusing on HPV vaccination interventions in the setting of China were included for review.

Data extraction and synthesis

We extracted information from the selected studies focusing on cost-effectiveness results of various vaccination programmes, key contextual and methodological factors influencing cost-effectiveness estimates and an assessment of study quality.

Results

A total of 14 studies were included for review. Considerable heterogeneity was found in terms of the methodologies used, HPV vaccination strategies evaluated and study quality. The reviewed studies generally supported the cost-effectiveness of HPV vaccine in China, although some reached alternative conclusions, particularly when assessed incremental to cervical cancer screening. Cost of vaccination was consistently identified as a key determinant for the cost-effectiveness of HPV vaccination programmes.

Conclusions

Implementing HPV vaccination programmes should be complemented with expanded cervical cancer screening, while the release of lower-priced domestic vaccine offers more promising potential for initiating public HPV vaccination programmes. Findings of this study contributes important evidence for policies for cervical cancer prevention in China and methodological implications for future modelling efforts.
Intersectional effects of gender and ethnicity? A quantitative analysis of bonus pay gap data for Shelford Hospital consultants
Authors: Bajwah Sabrina , Oluyase Adejoke
Published: December 2021

Background

Male hospital consultants earn 13% more than their female counterparts. The intersectional effects of ethnicity and gender are not known.

Objective

To describe and analyse the mean bonus pay gap in terms of gender and ethnicity for consultants across the Shelford Group.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Hospitals in the Shelford Group.

Participants

Shelford Group hospitals.

Main outcome measures

Mean bonus pay gap for male vs female and White vs Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic (BAME) consultants.

Results

Seven of the 10 Shelford Group hospitals provided data for financial year 2018/2019. The average mean bonus gender pay gap was in favour of male consultants (30%; range 12%–48%), and also favoured White consultants compared with BAME consultants (17%; range 7%–31%). The average mean bonus pay gap between White male and BAME male consultants was 20% (range 7%–34%) in favour of White male consultants, while that for White male and BAME female consultants was 46% (range 26%–60%) in favour of White male consultants.

Conclusions

Our data show for the first time that there may be an intersectional effect of gender and ethnicity associated with mean bonus pay for consultants. Action is needed to address this imbalance.
Endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke in patients with cancer: a propensity-matched analysis
Authors: Joshi Krishna C , Grewal Parneet , Beer-Furlan André , Vargas Alejandro , Osteraas Nicholas , Dafer Rima , Chen Michael
Published: December 2021

Background

There is a paucity of data and a belief that endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) has low efficacy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in patients with cancer. We aimed to critically compare the clinical outcomes of EVT for AIS in patients with and without cancer.

Methods

Records of all patients undergoing EVT for AIS between January 2015 and 2020 were screened for cancer at the time of EVT. Active cancer was defined as patients who were diagnosed with cancer and were undergoing or refused treatment for that cancer. Baseline modified Rankin Scale (mRS), age and sex were used in a 1:5 propensity score matching ratio. After matching we evaluated for any change in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) from baseline to discharge, hemorrhagic transformation (HT), and 90-day mRS and mortality.

Results

There were 19 patients with cancer and 95 matched controls. The mean±SD age was 70.89±11.16 years, and 17 (89.47%) were female. The baseline NIHSS was 22±7.5 and baseline mRS was 1 (IQR 1). There was no significant difference in change in baseline to discharge NIHSS, 90-day mRS or mortality; 90-day mRS 0–2 was 45.2% in the non-cancer group versus 46.7% in cancer group (p=0.54). HT was significantly higher in patients with cancer (57.89% vs 6.49%, p<0.001).

Conclusions

In propensity matched analysis of patients undergoing EVT for AIS with and without cancer, 90-day functional outcomes and mortality were similar. However, there was a significantly higher rate of HT in cancer patients.
Genome sequencing reveals the role of rare genomic variants in Chinese patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease
Authors: Shi Mengmeng , Leng Xinyi , Li Ying , Chen Zihan , Cao Ye , Chung Tiffany , Ip Bonaventure YM , Ip Vincent HL , Soo Yannie OY , Fan Florence SY , Ma Sze Ho , Ma Karen , Chan Anne Y Y , Au Lisa WC , Leung Howan , Lau Alexander Y , Mok Vincent CT , Choy Kwong Wai , Dong Zirui , Leung Thomas W
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The predisposition of intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) to East Asians over Caucasians infers a genetic basis which, however, remains largely unknown. Higher prevalence of vascular risk factors (VRFs) in Chinese over Caucasian patients who had a stroke, and shared risk factors of ICAD with other stroke subtypes indicate genes related to VRFs and/or other stroke subtypes may also contribute to ICAD.

Methods

Unrelated symptomatic patients with ICAD were recruited for genome sequencing (GS, 60-fold). Rare and potentially deleterious single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) and small insertions/deletions (InDels) were detected in genome-wide and correlated to genes related to VRFs and/or other stroke subtypes. Rare aneuploidies, copy number variants (CNVs) and chromosomal structural rearrangements were also investigated. Lastly, candidate genes were used for pathway and gene ontology enrichment analysis.

Results

Among 92 patients (mean age at stroke onset 61.0±9.3 years), GS identified likely ICAD-associated rare genomic variants in 54.3% (50/92) of patients. Forty-eight patients (52.2%, 48/92) had 59 rare SNVs/InDels reported or predicted to be deleterious in genes related to VRFs and/or other stroke subtypes. None of the 59 rare variants were identified in local subjects without ICAD (n=126). 31 SNVs/InDels were related to conventional VRFs, and 28 were discovered in genes related to other stroke subtypes. Our study also showed that rare CNVs (n=7) and structural rearrangement (a balanced translocation) were potentially related to ICAD in 8.7% (8/92) of patients. Lastly, candidate genes were significantly enriched in pathways related to lipoprotein metabolism and cellular lipid catabolic process.

Conclusions

Our GS study suggests a role of rare genomic variants with various variant types contributing to the development of ICAD in Chinese patients.
Impact of e-liquid warning labels on young adults’ perception of e-cigarettes and intention to use them: an experimental online study
Authors: Gantiva Carlos , Angel-Sanint Luna , Velasco-Vivas Ana
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Flavoured e-liquids are especially appealing to young adults. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of text warning labels (WLs) on e-liquid vials used in flavoured electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) on e-cigarette non-users’ perceptions of harm, addictiveness, emotional valence, interest in trying e-cigarettes and visual attention.

Methods

Young adults aged 18–25 years (n=313) who were non-e-cigarette users were recruited online and randomised to view images of one of two e-liquid vial conditions (with text WL or without text WL). Each participant was exposed to four images of e-liquid vials. After observing each image, participants reported interest in trying e-cigarettes, emotional valence, perceived harm and addictiveness. Additionally, participants completed an assessment of self-reported visual attention with a priori regions of interest (e-liquid branding and text WL).

Results

Separate two-way Analysis of Variance(ANOVA) that examined the main effects of sex and warning were used for each measure. Text WL on e-liquid vials decreased young adults’ intention to use e-cigarettes (especially in men), increased harm perception and decreased appeal to the product. However, they did not influence the perceived addictiveness of e-cigarettes and rarely grabbed attention. Men perceived e-cigarettes as less harmful and less addictive.

Conclusions

The results suggest that text WLs on e-liquid vials are moderately effective in preventing e-cigarette use in young adults. However, they capture less attention than the rest of the vial and fail to increase the perception of addictiveness. It is suggested to explore other types of design to increase the effectiveness of WLs.
Higher spin glueballs from functional methods
Authors: Huber Markus Q. , Fischer Christian S. , Sanchis-Alepuz Hèlios
Published: December 2021

We calculate the glueball spectrum for spin up to $$J=$$

J
=

4 and positive charge parity in pure Yang–Mills theory. We construct the full bases for $$J=$$

J
=

0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and discuss the relation to gauge invariant operators. Using a fully self-contained truncation of Dyson–Schwinger equations as input, we obtain ground states and first and second excited states from extrapolations of the eigenvalue curves. Where available, we find good quantitative agreement with lattice results
Dark effects in $$\tilde{f}(R,P)$$ gravity
Authors: Marciu Mihai
Published: December 2021

In the present paper a new cosmological model is proposed by extending the Einstein–Hilbert Lagrangian with a generic functional $$\tilde{f}(R,P)$$

f
~

(
R
,
P
)

, which depends on the scalar curvature R and a term P which encodes a possible influence from specific cubic contractions of the Riemann tensor. After proposing the corresponding action, the associated modified Friedmann relations are deduced, in the case where the generic functional has the following decomposition, $$\tilde{f}(R,P)=f(R)+g(P)$$

f
~

(
R
,
P
)

=
f

(
R
)

+
g

(
P
)

. The present study takes into account the power-law and the exponential decomposition for the specific form of the corresponding generic functional. For the analytical approach the specific method of dynamical system analysis is employed, revealing the fundamental properties of the phase space structure, discussing the dynamical consequences for the cosmological solutions obtained. It is revealed that the cosmological solutions associated to the critical points can explain various dynamical eras, with a high sensitivity to the values of the corresponding parameters, encoding different effects due to the geometrical nature of the specific couplings.
A Formal Framework for Complex Event Recognition
Authors: Grez Alejandro , Riveros Cristian , Ugarte Martín , Vansummeren Stijn
Published: December 2021

Complex event recognition (CER) has emerged as the unifying field for technologies that require processing and correlating distributed data sources in real time. CER finds applications in diverse domains, which has resulted in a large number of proposals for expressing and processing complex events. Existing CER languages lack a clear semantics, however, which makes them hard to understand and generalize. Moreover, there are no general techniques for evaluating CER query languages with clear performance guarantees.

In this article, we embark on the task of giving a rigorous and efficient framework to CER. We propose a formal language for specifying complex events, calledcomplex event logic(CEL), that contains the main features used in the literature and has a denotational and compositional semantics. We also formalize the so-called selection strategies, which had only been presented as by-design extensions to existing frameworks. We give insight into the language design trade-offs regarding the strict sequencing operators of CEL and selection strategies.

With a well-defined semantics at hand, we discuss how to efficiently process complex events by evaluating CEL formulas with unary filters. We start by introducing a formal computational model for CER, calledcomplex event automata(CEA), and study how to compile CEL formulas with unary filters into CEA. Furthermore, we provide efficient algorithms for evaluating CEA over event streams using constant time per event followed by output-linear delay enumeration of the results.