bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘J’accuse.!’: the continuous failure to address radiophobia and placing radiation in perspective
Authors: Lindberg John C H
Published: June 2021

As far as carcinogens are concerned, radiation is one of the best studied, having been researched for more than 100 years. Yet, radiation remains feared in many contexts as a result of its invisibility, its relationship with cancers and congenital disorders, aided by a variety of heuristics and reinforced by negative imagery. The strong socio-psychological response relating to nuclear energy has made radiation a classical case in the risk literature. This is reflected clearly following the nuclear accidents that have taken place, where the socio-psychological impacts of the clear dissonance between real and perceived health effects due to radiation exposure have caused considerable health detriment, outweighing the actual radiological impacts. Despite considerable efforts to normalise humankind’s relationship with radiation, there has been little shift away from the perceived uniqueness of the health risks of radiation. One consistent issue is the failure to place radiation within its proper perspective and context, which has ensured that radiophobia has persisted. The radiation protection community must get better at placing its research within the appropriate perspective and context, something that is far too rarely the case in discussions on radiation matters outside of the scientific community. Each member of the radiation protection community has an ethical, professional and moral obligation to set the record straight, to challenge the misconceptions and factual errors that surround radiation, as well as putting it into the proper perspective and context. Failing to do so, the well-established harms of radiophobia will remain, and the many benefits of nuclear technology risk being withheld.
Practically secure quantum position verification
Authors: Das Siddhartha , Siopsis George
Published: June 2021

We discuss quantum position verification (QPV) protocols in which the verifiers create and send single-qubit states to the prover. QPV protocols using single-qubit states are known to be insecure against adversaries that share a small number of entangled qubits. We introduce QPV protocols that are practically secure: they only require single-qubit states from each of the verifiers, yet their security is broken if the adversaries sharing an impractically large number of entangled qubits employ teleportation-based attacks. These protocols are a modification of known QPV protocols in which we include a classical random oracle without altering the amount of quantum resources needed by the verifiers. We present a cheating strategy that requires a number of entangled qubits shared among the adversaries that grows exponentially with the size of the classical input of the random oracle.
Symplectic fillings and cobordisms of lens spaces
Authors: Etnyre John , Roy Agniva
Published: June 2021

We complete the classification of symplectic fillings of tight contact structures on lens spaces. In particular, we show that any symplectic filling

X
X

of a virtually overtwisted contact structure on

L
(
p
,
q
)

L(p,q)

has another symplectic structure that fills the universally tight contact structure on

L
(
p
,
q
)

L(p,q)

. Moreover, we show that the Stein filling of

L
(
p
,
q
)

L(p,q)

with maximal second homology is given by the plumbing of disk bundles. We also consider the question of constructing symplectic cobordisms between lens spaces and report some partial results.
Fighting fences and land grabbers in the struggle for the Commons in N≠a Jaqna, Namibia
Authors: Van Der Wulp Christa , Hebinck Paul
Published: June 2021

Livestock owners, elites and non-elites alike, from different parts of Namibia fence in land that belongs to the indigenous San people who collectively manage their land as a conservancy. Fencing violates the Communal Land Reform Act of 2002. The conservancy started a lawsuit in August 2013 with reference to this Act to remove the fences and end the illegal occupation of land. The High Court ruled in 2016 in favour of the conservancy, but the fences have not been removed and more illegal settlers have settled in the conservancy. We conceptualize and analyse the act of fencing as land grabbing but argue simultaneously that the legal battle of the conservancy is more than a struggle for justice. The case unfolds as an ontological struggle between actors, their institutions and respective policies and discourses, pivoting on conflicting visions of modernities of (rural) development in Tsumkwe West. The wider significance beyond N≠a Jaqna is that the core of struggles about land and rights in situations of land grabbing is whose modernity counts. The court case has also paved the way for conservancies and other resource communities to become involved in dealing with land issues and contesting the multiple meanings of land.
Invited Commentary: Population Health in Peril—Needed US Science and Public Policy Action
Authors: Fuller-Rowell Thomas E
Published: June 2021

With unprecedented increases, mortality trends in the United States have received significant attention in recent years. To date, research on this topic has emphasized specific causes of death and proximal behavioral or physiological determinants. In this commentary, I consider novel contributions of Zheng and Echave (Am J Epidemiol. 2021;190(11):2242–2255) in examining trends in mental health, health behaviors, and physiological dysregulation. I then discuss broader developments in related research and make a case for: 1) not allowing recent health trends among Whites to overshadow the urgent work that needs to be done to mitigate persistent racial inequities, 2) further investigation of what accounts for increases in income inequality and its life-span health consequences, and 3) broadening the scope of mechanisms considered to include underdiscussed topics such as the role of increases in social media use or environmental toxicant exposures. Underlying several potential explanations for observed trends in health and mortality is the fact that substantial change has occurred on multiple fronts in US society and that policy responses to these changes have been insufficient. An enhanced emphasis on innovative population health research will be essential to provide the evidence base needed for policy makers to rise to these urgent challenges.
Rehabilitation Gaming System for Alcohol-Related Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Usability Study
Authors: Caballeria Elsa , Maier Martina , Balcells-Oliveró Mercedes , López-Pelayo Hugo , Oliveras Clara , Rubio Ballester Belén , Verschure Paul F M J , Gual Antoni
Published: June 2021

Aims

Cognitive impairment in patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) is highly prevalent, and it negatively impacts treatment outcome. However, this condition is neither systematically assessed nor treated. Thus, we aimed to explore the usability of a virtual reality-based protocol (‘Rehabilitation Gaming System’, RGS) for patients with AUD.

Methods

Twenty AUD patients (50% also cognitive impairment) underwent a single session of the RGS protocol (four cognitive training tasks, 10 minutes each). System Usability Scale (SUS) and Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ) were applied to assess the RGS usability and patients’ satisfaction with it. Also, the Perceived Competence Scale was administered to assess the patients’ feelings of competence when using the training protocol. Comparisons of the responses to these questionnaires were performed between AUD patients with cognitive impairment and those without cognitive impairment.

Results

RGS usability was very positively rated (median SUS score = 80, Interquartile Range, IQR = 68.13–86-88). No significant differences were found in the median SUS scores for any of the sociodemographic or clinical variables, excepting for gender (women median score = 85; IQR = 80–94.38 vs. men median score = 71.25; IQR = 61.25–89.25; P-value = 0.035). The quality of the information provided by the RGS training scenarios and the usability were positively rated (PSSUQ), and patients experienced high feelings of competence.

Conclusions

The RGS has been found to be usable in the short term and patients with AUD stated to be satisfied with it. Future larger, randomized trials are needed to explore the effectiveness of this tool to help overcome the cognitive deficits in AUD patients.
Characterization of faecal and caecal microbiota of free-ranging black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) using high-throughput sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene
Authors: Rooney Tess A , Eshar David , Lee Charles , Weese J Scott
Published: June 2021

Black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) are keystone species within their grassland ecosystems; their population stability affects a multitude of other species. The goals of this study were to explore, describe and compare the bacterial communities in caecal and hard faecal samples from free-ranging black-tailed prairie dogs (n = 36) from KS, USA, using high-throughput sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene and to compare sex and geographic locations. A total of 22 paired faecal and caecal samples were collected post-mortem from free-ranging black-tailed prairie dogs from 5 different geographical locations. The results revealed that the microbiota of both faecal and caecal samples were dominated by the phylum Firmicutes (genera belonging to the Clostridiales order). There was significantly greater richness in faecal compared with caecal samples. There were significant differences between the 5 different geographic regions (P < 0.001), specifically in the relative abundances of genera. There were differences in rare members of the microbiome between faecal samples from male and female prairie dogs but with no significant impact on overall community structure. This study provides novel data and expands our knowledge about the gastrointestinal microbiome composition of free-ranging black-tailed prairie dogs, which has potential to inform conservation efforts and improve their captive management.
Penicillin susceptibility among invasive MSSA infections: a multicentre study in 16 Spanish hospitals
Authors: Mama Olouwafemi Mistourath , Aspiroz Carmen , Lozano Carmen , Ruiz-Ripa Laura , Azcona José Manuel , Seral Cristina , Cercenado Emilia , López-Cerero Lorena , Palacian Pilar , Belles-Belles Alba , Berdonces Pilar , Siller María , Aguirre-Quiñonero Amaia , Zarazaga Myriam , Torres Carmen ,   the Spanish Study Group of Clinical S. aureus CC398, Leiva José , Ezpeleta Carmen , Luis Torroba José , Castillo Javier , Robres Pilar , Andrea Alonso Carla , García Mercé , Navarro María , Vilamala Anna , Canut Andrés , Megías Gregoria , Ayarza Rafael , Gomáriz María , Calvo Jorge , Rezusta Antonio , Isabel Calleja Ana
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of penicillin susceptibility among MSSA causing bloodstream infections (BSIs) in 16 Spanish hospitals and to characterize the penicillin-susceptible MSSA (MSSA-PENS) isolates.

Methods

A total of 1011 Staphylococcus aureus isolates were collected from blood cultures in 16 Spanish hospitals during 2018–19 (6–12 months) and their susceptibility to 18 antimicrobials was determined. The MSSA-PENS isolates were selected and examined by PCR to determine the presence of the blaZ gene, other resistance genes and the genes lukF/lukS-PV, eta, etb and tst. The immune evasion cluster (IEC) type was also analysed. All the MSSA-PENS isolates were submitted to S. aureus protein A (spa) typing and the clonal complexes (CCs) were assigned according to their spa type.

Results

The prevalence of MSSA was 74.6% (754/1011) and 14.9% (151/1011) were MSSA-PENS-blaZnegative. MSSA-PENS-blaZnegative isolates (n = 151) were ascribed to 88 spa types and 11 CCs. The most frequent CCs were CC5 (35/151) and CC398 (25/151), with t002-CC5 and t571-CC398 being the most common lineages. Pan-susceptibility was identified in 117 of the 151 MSSA-PENS-blaZnegative isolates (77.5%). In the remaining isolates, erythromycin and clindamycin resistance was the most frequent resistance found, although tobramycin, ciprofloxacin, fusidic acid, mupirocin and/or tetracycline resistance was also detected. Thirty-eight MSSA-PENS-blaZnegative isolates were IEC negative and four isolates were Panton–Valentine leucocidin (‘PVL’) positive.

Conclusions

A high penicillin susceptibility rate was detected among MSSA, opening therapeutic opportunities for BSIs. The emergence of new successful MSSA-PENS clones could be responsible for these data. The detection among MSSA-PENS-blaZnegative isolates of the clonal lineage CC398 or the absence of an IEC raises questions about their possible animal origin, requiring further analysis.
The spectrum of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations in pediatric CNS tumors
Authors: Kaneva Kristiyana , O’Halloran Katrina , Triska Petr , Liu Xiyu , Merkurjev Daria , Bootwalla Moiz , Ryutov Alex , Cotter Jennifer A , Ostrow Dejerianne , Biegel Jaclyn A , Gai Xiaowu
Published: June 2021

Background

We previously established the landscape of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations in 23 subtypes of pediatric malignancies, characterized mtDNA mutation profiles among these subtypes, and provided statistically significant evidence for a contributory role of mtDNA mutations to pediatric malignancies.

Methods

To further delineate the spectrum of mtDNA mutations in pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors, we analyzed 545 tumor-normal paired whole-genome sequencing datasets from the Children’s Brain Tumor Tissue Consortium.

Results

Germline mtDNA variants were used to determine the haplogroup, and maternal ancestry, which was not significantly different among tumor types. Among 166 (30.5%) tumors we detected 220 somatic mtDNA mutations, primarily missense mutations (36.8%), as well as 22 loss-of-function mutations. Different pediatric CNS tumor subtypes had distinct mtDNA mutation profiles. The number of mtDNA mutations per tumor ranged from 0.20 (dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor [DNET]) to 0.75 (meningiomas). The average heteroplasmy was 10.7%, ranging from 4.6% in atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) to 26% in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. High-grade gliomas had a significant higher number of mtDNA mutations per sample than low-grade gliomas (0.6 vs 0.27) (P = .004), with almost twice as many missense mtDNA mutations per sample (0.24 vs 0.11), and higher average heteroplasmy levels (16% vs 10%). Recurrent mtDNA mutations may represent hotspots which may serve as biologic markers of disease.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate varying contributions of mtDNA mutations in different subtypes of CNS tumors. Sequencing the mtDNA genome may ultimately be used to characterize CNS tumors at diagnosis and monitor disease progression.
Operative Versus Nonoperative Management of Acute Pediatric Monteggia Injuries With Complete Ulna Fractures
Authors: Hart Christopher M. , Alswang Jared , Bram Joshua , Kim Samuel T. , Arkader Alexandre , Silva Mauricio
Published: June 2021

Background:

The treatment of acute pediatric Monteggia injuries involving a complete fracture of the ulna remains controversial. The purpose of this study is to compare the outcomes of immediate operative fixation to a trial of closed reduction and casting of acute pediatric Monteggia fractures involving complete ulna fractures.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective analysis of 73 patients with Monteggia injuries with complete ulna fractures presenting to 2 pediatric trauma centers from 2008 to 2018. Patients were divided in 2 groups based on the treatment received: patients in group 1 (n=37, 51%) received surgical treatment; patients in group 2 (n=36, 49%) received a trial of closed reduction and casting. The mean follow-up of 15.2 weeks (range, 4.1 to 159 wk). The incidence of radiocapitellar joint redislocation, need for further intervention, complications, and recovery of range of motion was compared between the groups.

Results:

There were no significant differences between groups 1 and 2 with regards to age (6 vs. 5.8 y, P=0.69), sex (54% vs. 47% female, P=0.64), or the mean maximal ulnar angulation (23 vs. 19 degrees, P=0.94). There was a higher proportion of proximal ulna fractures in group 1 versus 2 (62% vs. 33%, respectively, P=0.02). Bado type III and IV fractures were associated with operative management [odds ratio=22 (95% confidence interval: 1.68-288.7) and 14.9 (95% confidence interval: 2.09-106), respectively]. In group 2, 5 patients (13.9%) sustained a loss of radiocapitellar joint reduction following closed reduction and casting and ultimately received operative treatment. At final follow-up, there were no cases of recurrent radiocapitellar dislocation in either group, all patients achieved fracture union and regained full elbow range of motion.

Conclusions:

Even in the presence of a complete ulna fracture, a trial of nonoperative management of acute pediatric Monteggia fractures with closed reduction and casting can result in comparable outcomes to those obtained with immediate surgical management. The nonoperative management of Monteggia fractures requires close clinical follow-up to ensure no loss of reduction.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—therapeutic studies, case series.
A Survey of Prosthetists' Perspectives on Adjustable-Volume Lower-Limb Prosthetic Sockets
Authors: Barr Emily A. , Ebbs Kelsey , Wensman Jeffrey , Gutierrez Anthony , Rosenblatt Noah J. , Gates Deanna H.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Adjustable-volume prosthetic sockets have been available for many years to address residual limb volume changes, although little research has been conducted regarding their efficacy. As such, prosthetists are guided by patient preference, personal experience, and professional perception. The purpose of this study was to explore clinician perceptions and experiences fitting adjustable-volume prosthetic sockets.

Materials and Methods

An anonymous online survey was distributed to certified prosthetists. The survey contained questions about prosthetists' demographics, whether they had previously fit an adjustable-volume prosthetic socket, whether these fittings were successful, and what challenges they experienced. Those who had not previously fit adjustable sockets were asked what barriers had prevented them from doing so.

Results

A total of 221 certified prosthetists completed the survey. Of the 195 eligible respondents, 82% had experience in fitting adjustable prosthetic sockets. The most commonly fit socket styles were the RevoFit (n = 123), Socket-less (n = 67), and Infinite (n = 66) sockets. Prosthetists had varied success with the different socket styles, with the RevoFit being the most successful, and the Infinite and Socket-less sockets the least successful. Respondents most frequently noted increased bulk (93% of respondents; n = 181), complicated fabrication (72%; n = 141), and poor cosmesis (65%; n = 127) as challenges faced when fitting adjustable-volume sockets. Some respondents felt these sockets were a useful clinical tool; however, common themes regarding clinical perception of adjustable sockets included issues with cost/reimbursement and appropriateness for only a subset of the population of individuals with amputation only. Other respondents felt that adjustable sockets were either not adequate for clinical use or required improvements before their use would be beneficial.

Conclusions

There is no majority opinion regarding the benefits and challenges of adjustable sockets among prosthetists. In general, prosthetists feel that adjustable sockets can be used as one of the various tools to accommodate complicated lower-limb fittings. Additional work is needed to provide clinicians with a best practice guideline for providing adjustability within lower-limb sockets.

Clinical Relevance

The study showed that prosthetists feel that adjustable sockets can be one of the tools used for complicated lower-limb fittings. Additional work is needed to develop a best practice guideline for providing adjustability in lower-limb sockets.
Confirmed COVID-19 cases per economic activity during Autumn wave in Belgium
Authors: Verbeeck Johan , Vandersmissen Godelieve , Peeters Jannes , Klamer Sofieke , Hancart Sharon , Lernout Tinne , Dewatripont Mathias , Godderis Lode , Molenberghs Geert
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess the COVID-19 incidence per economic activity during the Autumn wave 2020 in Belgium.

Methods

The 14-day incidence of confirmed COVID–19 cases per NACE–BEL code is described in the periods immediately preceding the Belgian more strict measures of October 19, 2020, and is evaluated longitudinally by a Gaussian–Gaussian modelling two–stage approach. Additionally, the number of high-risk contacts in working segments and regions is described.

Results

The peak of COVID–19 14–day incidence in most NACE–BEL sectors is reached in the period October 20-November 2, 2020 and was considerably higher than average in human health activities, residential care activities, fitness facilities, human resource provision, hairdressing and other beauty treatment and some public service activities. Human health activities, residential care activities, food and beverage service activities, hotels, arts, food retail activities, and human resources provision have high pre-lockdown incidences. The frequency of index cases that report more than two high risk contacts is increasing over time in all sectors.

Conclusion

Despite the restrictive protocols present in many sectors before the Autumn wave, employees in activities where close contact with others is high, show increased risk of COVID–19 infection. Especially sports activities are among the highest risk activities. Finally, the increasing amount of high-risk contacts by COVID–19 confirmed cases is compatible with the decreasing motivation over time to adhere to the measures.

Key Messages

What is already known about this subject?

Certain occupational sectors, such as human health and care, food and beverage, cultural and sport activities, have been related to a high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection at the workplace.

What are the new findings?

COVID-19 confirmed cases of employees are linked with the main economic activity of their employer. The effect of opening of sectors, potentially under restrictive protocols, is evaluated. Despite the restrictive protocols present in many sectors, employees in activities where close and/or prolonged contact with others is high exhibit increased risk of COVID–19 infection, even higher than the high-risk sector of human health and care. Full restriction of these sectors decreases adequately the COVID-19 incidences, even in those sectors with physical contacts that remain open, for example human health, care and food shops. Finally, the increasing amount of high-risk contacts by COVID–19 confirmed cases might be related to decreasing motivation over time to adhere to the measures.

How might this impact on policy or clinical practice in the foreseeable future?

These insights offer guidance to policy makers on which economic activity to restrict or subject to stricter protocols to better control the COVID-19 pandemic whilst keeping the work floor as safe as possible.
The incidence of delirium in an acute geriatric community hospital: an observational cohort feasibility study
Authors: Ribbink Marthe E. , Stornebrink Emma , Franssen Remco , de Jonghe Annemarieke , MacNeil Vroomen Janet L. , Buurman Bianca M.
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Delirium in hospitalised older adults is associated with negative health outcomes. Admission to an alternative care setting may lower the incidence of delirium. The Acute Geriatric Community Hospital (AGCH) was recently opened in the Netherlands and uses a multi-component non-pharmacological intervention strategy to prevent delirium. The objective of this study was to describe the incidence of delirium at the AGCH and compare this incidence to existing rates from literature. If a possible effect on delirium is seen in this comparison this would support conducting a larger prospectively controlled study on delirium in this new care setting.

Design

Prospective cohort feasibility study; exploratory meta-analysis of proportions.

Setting and Participants

The AGCH is an acute geriatric unit in a skilled nursing facility for patients aged >65 years with acute medical conditions.

Methods

Delirium assessment using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) upon admission and on day one, two and three or until delirium had resolved. Patients’ charts were reviewed if CAM was missing. In an linear mixed-effects model, the delirium incidence rate in AGCH was compared to pooled delirium incidence rates from six studies found in a high-quality review.

Results

214 patients from the AGCH (mean age 81.9 years, 47% male, 12% with a history of dementia) were included in the analysis. Delirium developed in 8% (18/214) (95% confidence interval [CI] 5-13%) of patients during AGCH admission compared to 16% (95% CI 12-21%) in hospitals. Admission to the AGCH was associated with a decreased delirium incidence rate compared to the hospital control group (OR[odds ratio]= 0.49, 95% CI 0.24-0.98, p-value=0.044).

Conclusions and implications

The delirium incidence in the AGCH was low compared to those incidences found in general hospitals in literature. Based on these findings a controlled observational or randomized study measuring delirium in this care setting is recommended.
SARS coronavirus vaccines protect against different coronaviruses
Authors: Dangi Tanushree , Palacio Nicole , Sanchez Sarah , Class Jacob , Visvabharathy Lavanya , Ciucci Thomas , Koralnik Igor , Richner Justin , Penaloza-MacMaster Pablo
Published: June 2021

Although SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have shown efficacy against SARS-CoV-2, it is unclear if they can also protect against other coronaviruses that may infect humans in the future. Here, we show that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in humans elicits cross-reactive antibodies against other coronaviruses. Our studies in mice demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination protects against a common cold coronavirus, and that SARS-CoV-1 vaccination protects against SARS-CoV-2. Similarly, infection with a common cold coronavirus also conferred enhanced protection from subsequent infections with other coronaviruses. Mechanistically, both T cells and antibodies mediated cross-protection. This is the first direct demonstration that coronavirus-specific immunity can confer heterologous protection in vivo, providing a rationale for universal coronavirus vaccines.

Highlights

SARS-CoV-2 vaccination elicits cross-reactive antibody against other coronaviruses in humans.

COVID-19 patients generate cross-reactive antibody against other coronaviruses.

A SARS-CoV-1 vaccine protects against SARS-CoV-2.

Prior coronavirus infections improve immune protection following heterologous coronavirus challenges.
Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 mutations reveals regional-specificity and similar trends of N501 and High-Frequency mutation N501Y in different levels of control measures
Authors: Arevalo Santiago Justo , Sifuentes Daniela Zapata , Huallpa César J. , Bianchi Gianfranco Landa , Chávez Adriana Castillo , Casas Romina Garavito-Salini , Uribe Calampa Carmen Sofia , Uceda-Campos Guillermo , Chavarría Roberto Pineda
Published: June 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This disease has spread globally, causing more than 161.5 million cases and 3.3 million deaths to date. Surveillance and monitoring of new mutations in the virus’ genome are crucial to our understanding of the adaptation of SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, how the temporal dynamics of these mutations is influenced by control measures and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) is poorly understood. Using 1 058 020 SARS-CoV-2 from sequenced COVID-19 cases from 98 countries (totaling 714 country-month combinations), we perform a normalization by COVID-19 cases to calculate the relative frequency of SARS-CoV-2 mutations and explore their dynamics over time. We found 115 mutations estimated to be present in more than 3 % of global COVID-19 cases and determined three types of mutation dynamics: High-Frequency, Medium-Frequency, and Low-Frequency. Classification of mutations based on temporal dynamics enable us to examine viral adaptation and evaluate the effects of implemented control measures in virus evolution during the pandemic. We showed that Medium-Frequency mutations are characterized by high prevalence in specific regions and/or in constant competition with other mutations in several regions. Finally, taking N501Y mutation as representative of High-Frequency mutations, we showed that level of control measure stringency negatively correlates with the effective reproduction number of SARS-CoV-2 with High-Frequency or not-High-Frequency and both follows similar trends in different levels of stringency.
Building Back More Equitable STEM Education: Teach Science by Engaging Students in Doing Science
Authors: Elgin Sarah C R , Hays Shan , Mingo Vida , Shaffer Christopher D , Williams Jason
Published: June 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is a national tragedy, one that has focused our attention on both the need to improve science education and the need to confront systemic racism in our country. We know that active learning strategies, in particular research experiences, can engage and empower STEM undergraduates, effectively closing the achievement gap for historically excluded persons. The apprenticeship model for STEM training – supervised research under a dedicated mentor – is highly effective, but out of reach for most students. Recent efforts have demonstrated that Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) can be an effective approach for making STEM research accessible for all. Our meta-analysis of CUREs finds that published examples now cover the breadth of the typical undergraduate biology curriculum. A thoughtfully designed CURE can go beyond foundational knowledge and analytical thinking to include career-related skills,e.g., teamwork and communication. Similarly, it can be designed with equity as a foundational principle, taking into account the unique contributions of all students and their varying needs. We provide here an example framework (The “Do Science Framework”) for making STEM training more effective and inclusive using CUREs. While CUREs do not inherently address equity, there can be no equity in STEM education without equal access to research participation, and progress toward this goal can be achieved using CUREs. However, implementing new CUREs is not a trivial undertaking, particularly at schools with high teaching loads and little or no research infrastructure, including many community colleges. We therefore propose a National Center for Science Engagement to support this transition, building on experiences of current nationally established CUREs as well as the work of many individual faculty. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, academia has a renewed responsibility to dismantle structural inequities in education; engaging all STEM students in research can be a key step.
Amino acid-derived quorum sensing molecule alanine on the GIT tolerance of the lactobacillus strains in the co-cultured fermentation model
Authors: Wen Jianzhu , Cui Lei , Chen Mengqi , Xia Qiang , Zeng Xiaoqun , Guo Yuxing , Pan Daodong , Wu Zhen
Published: June 2021

As the importance of gut microbiota in health is increasingly recognized, the interest in interventions that can modulate the microbiota and its interactions with its host has soared. The survival status of the probiotics in the gastrointestinal environment and the microbial interactions between the LAB have also received considerable attention. In the present research, the gastrointestinal environment tolerance, adhesion ability, and biofilm formation of the lactobacillus strains in the co-culture system were explored, through the real-time fluorescence-based quantitative PCR, UPLC-MS/MS metabolic profiling analysis and Live/Dead® BacLight™ cell staining methods. The results show that the co-culture system can promote the release of signal molecules and can effectively protect the liability of the Lactobacillus acidophilus in the gastrointestinal environment. Meanwhile, amino acid-derived quorum sensing molecule L-alanine (1 %) can effectively enhance the communication of the cells in the complex fermentation model, which leads to the increase of the liability of the L. acidophilus in the gastrointestinal environment.

Importance

The findings of this study provide a clue to the amino acid-derived metabolites in the communication among cells in the GIT environment, which can enhance the communication of the lactobacillus strains in the complex fermentation model. Meanwhile, the liability of Lactobacillus acidophilus could be enhanced in the co-culture system during the gastrointestinal environment stress with the amino acid-derived quorum sensing (QS) components, and it will shed some light to the application of the amino acid-derived QS molecules in the fermentation stater industry.
Proteome and functional decline as platelets age in the circulation
Authors: Allan Harriet E. , Hayman Melissa A. , Marcone Simone , Chan Melissa V. , Edin Matthew L. , Maffucci Tania , Joshi Abhishek , Menke Laura , Crescente Marilena , Mayr Manuel , Zeldin Darryl C. , Armstrong Paul C. , Warner Timothy D.
Published: June 2021

Anucleate platelets circulate in the blood of healthy individuals for approximately 7-10 days during which time their protein composition may change. We hypothesized such changes would be linked to altered structure and function. Here, we separated platelets of different ages based on mRNA content and characterised them using proteomics, immunofluorescence and functional assays. Total protein content was 45±5% (n=4) lower in old platelets compared to young platelets. Predictive proteomic pathway analysis identified associations with 28 biological processes, notably increased haemostasis in young platelets and apoptosis in old platelets. Further studies confirmed platelet ageing was linked to a reduction decrease in cytoskeletal proteins, a reduction in mitochondria number, and lower calcium dynamics and granule secretion. This work delineates physical and functional changes in platelets as they age and serves as a base to examine differences associated with altered mean age of platelet populations in conditions such as immune thrombocytopenia and diabetes.
Genomic evidence that blind cavefishes are not wrecks of ancient life
Authors: Policarpo Maxime , Laurenti Patrick , García-Machado Erik , Metcalfe Cushla , Rétaux Sylvie , Casane Didier
Published: June 2021

Cavefishes often have modified eyes, from small but otherwise functional, to highly degenerate structures embedded in a connective tissue and covered by skin. Darwin assumed that these animals are ‘wrecks of ancient life’, but several genomic studies suggests they are not ‘ancient’. The most radical dating shift is for populations of a Mexican cavefish, Astyanax mexicanus, that have been recently estimated to be at the most a few tens of thousands years old. Despite having highly degenerate eyes, the eye-specific genes of A. mexicanus have low levels of decay. Other blind cavefishes we have examined so far are even older, but also can be dated to the Pleistocene. Here, we estimated the age of blindness of two additional fish species by the level of decay of eye-specific genes. Many pseudogenes were identified in the amblyopsid Typhlichthys subterraneus, suggesting that blindness evolved a few million years ago. In contrast, the blind cichlid Lamprologus lethops appears to be a new case of very recent and rapid eye regression, which occurred in deep river water, an environment similar to caves. Genome-wide analyses support the hypothesis that blindness in cavefishes is never very ancient, and ranges from the Early Pliocene to Late Pleistocene. Together with the description of hundreds of cavefish species, our results suggest that surface fishes were able to recurrently and rapidly adapt to caves and similar small dark ecosystems but the resulting highly specialized blind species with a limited distribution may be evolutionary dead-ends in a relatively short time.
High-energy micrometre-scale pixel direct conversion X-ray detector
Authors: Scott Christopher C. , Farrier Michael , Li Yunzhe , Laxer Sam , Ravi Parmesh , Kenesei Peter , Wojcik Michael J. , Miceli Antonino , Karim Karim S.
Published: June 2021

The objective of this work was to fabricate and characterize a new X-ray imaging detector with micrometre-scale pixel dimensions (7.8 µm) and high detection efficiency for hard X-ray energies above 20 keV. A key technology component consists of a monolithic hybrid detector built by direct deposition of an amorphous selenium film on a custom designed CMOS readout integrated circuit. Characterization was carried out at the synchrotron beamline 1-BM-B at the Advanced Photon Source of Argonne National Laboratory. The direct conversion detector demonstrated micrometre-scale spatial resolution with a 63 keV modulation transfer function of 10% at Nyquist frequency. In addition, spatial resolving power down to 8 µm was determined by imaging a transmission bar target at 21 keV. X-ray signal linearity, responsivity and lag were also characterized in the same energy range. Finally, phase contrast edge enhancement was observed in a phase object placed in the beam path. This amorphous selenium/CMOS detector technology can address gaps in commercially available X-ray detectors which limit their usefulness for existing synchrotron applications at energies greater than 50 keV; for example, phase contrast tomography and high-resolution imaging of nanoscale lattice distortions in bulk crystalline materials using Bragg coherent diffraction imaging. The technology will also facilitate the creation of novel synchrotron imaging applications for X-ray energies at or above 20 keV.
An analysis of the effects of stakeholders management on IT project risks using Delphi and design of experiments methods
Authors: Figueiredo Filho Letícia Barbosa Gomes , Bouzon Marina , Fettermann Diego de Castro
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate how stakeholders affect project risks by analyzing the connection between stakeholder management and risk management in the information technology (IT) project context.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Delphi method, interviews with IT project experts were conducted to examine four factors concerning stakeholder management and define probabilities for three risk variables. The design of experiments (DoE) method was applied for the design of the research instrument and data analysis.

Findings

Stakeholder engagement and communication with stakeholders have significant influence on the occurrence of negative risks, opportunities and the development of contingency strategies. These results provide project leaders with relevant data that better guide actions toward stakeholders and enhance project success probability.

Originality/value

This study clarifies important aspects of two main project management areas – stakeholder and risk management – in the IT projects context. This research also presented an unusual application for the DoE method which allows the subjective variables analysis by statistical tools and enables to explore factor influences on real project situations.
Organizational learning, innovativeness and performance of financial service firms in an emerging market: examining the mediation effects of customer-focused strategy
Authors: Yuliansyah Yuliansyah , Rammal Hussain Gulzar , Maryani Maryani , Mohamed Jais Ismie Roha , Mohd-Sanusi Zuraidah
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The study investigates the extent to which organizational learning and innovativeness can improve the firms' performance through a customer-focused strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from Indonesian financial service firms using a questionnaire-based survey. The 157 useable survey responses were analysed to test the proposed hypotheses using SmartPLS.

Findings

This study finds that both organizational learning and innovativeness have a positive effect on performance. The effect of organizational learning on performance depends on the variations of the customer-focused strategy. However, innovativeness does not mediate through customer-focused strategy to enhance performance.

Practical implications

In firms that implement business model innovation, managers should focus on resource flexibility. Where it is responsive, managers need to be concerned with ensuring various uses of existing resources to understand the performance effectively.

Social implications

As one of the types of dynamic capabilities, organizational learning and innovativeness are also important antecedents of performance.

Originality/value

This study extends the business innovation model from the adaptability of customer-focused strategy. The findings confirm that organizational learning has a prominent role in meeting customer needs for a dynamic market.
Does financial literacy reduce financial fragility during COVID-19? The moderation effect of psychological, economic and social factors
Authors: Chhatwani Malvika , Mishra Sushanta Kumar
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The present study examines the linkage between financial literacy and financial fragility during COVID-19. It further examines if financial literacy has a differential impact on financial fragility based on psychological (financial confidence), economic (wealth) and social (race) factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used nationally representative data of the American working age-group. They collated six different datasets collected at different time-periods to conduct the present study. Based on 2,202 observations, they conducted logistic regression analyses to test the proposed relationships.

Findings

The authors find that financial literacy reduces the odds of being financially fragile by 9.1%. Furthermore, they find that financially literate consumers having high financial confidence are less financially fragile during COVID-19. Besides, the adverse impact of financial literacy on financial fragility is more for consumers having more than less wealth. The interaction with race is not significant, suggesting that financial literacy cuts across racial boundaries.

Practical implications

Financial fragility is an important factor having numerous deleterious consequences. The authors’ study found that financial confidence, psychological factor and wealth economic factor enhances the negative effect of financial literacy on financial fragility. Banks and financial institutes can develop mechanisms to infuse confidence in individuals during the pandemic to reduce their financial fragility. Policymakers and governments may increase awareness related to debt management practices and design financial literacy interventions to reduce financial fragility among individuals.

Originality/value

The study is one of the initial studies to examine the antecedents of financial fragility. Based on a time-lagged data, the authors’ study examines the linkage between financial literacy and financial fragility. Though scholars have investigated financial literacy and its implications, scholarly work in this domain during COVID-19 is at best limited. The study contributes to the literature by testing the effects of boundary conditions that can change financial literacy's impact on financial fragility.
The influence of institutional context on entrepreneurial intention: evidence from the Saudi young community
Authors: Aloulou Wassim J.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to a better understanding of how a country’s institutional environment is impacting the young community’s entrepreneurial intention through perceived desirability and feasibility as mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

This research applies and validates a measure of a country’s institutional profile for entrepreneurship to Saudi university students. This research develops a structural model to investigate the young community’s perceptions about their institutional context, desirability and feasibility and their influence on entrepreneurial intentions. Data was collected from 287 Saudi young communities (university students) from several public universities located in Riyadh. Structural equation modeling analysis was applied to examine the structural model of entrepreneurial intentions.

Findings

Research findings revealed positive and significant relationships between institutional context dimensions and young community students’ perceived desirability and feasibility and between students’ perceived desirability and feasibility and their entrepreneurial intentions. Their perceived desirability and feasibility were shown to have positive full mediation effects on the relationships between institutional environment dimensions and entrepreneurial intention.

Research limitations/implications

Research Implications are advanced to help researchers and practitioners in considering the institutional environment for promoting entrepreneurship. Limitations and future research directions are discussed for better generalization of findings and renewed streams of research in the field.

Originality/value

To the best knowledge of the author, this research is one of the first studies to apply the scale on the institutional country profile to Saudi Arabia with a young community. Studies linking institutional profile to entrepreneurial intentions were also limited in developing countries having a young population. This might catch the attention of researchers, educators and policy-makers.
Luxury fashion start-up brands' digital strategies with female Gen Y in the Middle East
Authors: Ramadan Zahy , Nsouli Nour Zakaria
Published: June 2021

Purpose

With US$ 320 bn spent on luxury fashion in the Middle East and a growing digital consumer presence, local start-ups must form an integrated online relationship with millennials in order to recruit and retain a viable customer base. Nonetheless, these elements are yet to be extensively and properly researched as the literature is still scarce vis-à-vis this area.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed qualitative approach was adopted using both in-depth interviews and focus groups. Two qualitative studies were conducted, with a total of 13 elite respondents and 28 consumer respondents from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) using semi-structured interviews. Four focus groups were also conducted in both countries with six participants each group for triangulation of the findings.

Findings

The findings enhance current understanding pertaining to Gen Ys' motivations when selecting and engaging online with a luxury fashion start-up brand. The study suggests a detailed strategic framework that can be used in an integrated omni-channel approach. It also discusses the different touchpoints that play a role in influencing luxury consumption across different motivation stages.

Originality/value

The literature relating to digital strategies for luxury fashion start-up brands in the Middle East is still nascent. This study fills a considerable gap in the literature related to such brands that are aiming to stay relevant amidst the growing impact of the digital landscape on luxury fashion brand shoppers in the Middle East.