bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is there an airborne component to the transmission of COVID-19? : a quantitative analysis study
Authors: Beggs Clive B.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

While COVID-19 is known to be spread by respiratory droplets (which travel <2m horizontally), much less is known about its transmission via aerosols, which can become airborne and widely distributed throughout room spaces. In order to quantify the risk posed by COVID-19 infectors exhaling respiratory aerosols in enclosed spaces, we undertook a computer modelling study to simulate transmission in an office building.

Methods

Respiratory droplet data from four published datasets were analysed to quantify the number and volume of droplets <100μm diameter produced by a typical cough and speaking event (i.e. counting from 1 to 100). This was used in a stochastic model to simulate (10000 simulations) the number of respiratory particles, originating from a COVID-19 infector, that would be inhaled in one hour by a susceptible individual practicing socially distancing in a 4 × 4 × 2.5m office space. Several scenarios were simulated that mimicked the presence of both symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 infectors.

Results

On average, each cough and speaking event produced similar numbers of droplets <100μm diameter (median range = 971.9 – 1013.4). Computer simulations (ventilation rate=2AC/h) revealed that sharing the office space with a symptomatic COVID-19 infector (4 coughs and 10 speaking events per hour) for one hour resulted in the inhalation of 16.9 (25-75th range = 8.1-33.9) aerosolised respiratory droplets, equating to about 280-1190 particles inhaled over a 35-hour working week. Sharing with an asymptomatic infector (10 speaking events per hour) resulted in the about 196–875 particles inhaled over 35 hours.

Conclusions

Given that live SARS-CoV-2 virions are known to be shed in high concentrations from the nasal cavity of both symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 patients, the results suggest that those sharing enclosed spaces with infectors for long periods may be at risk of contracting COVID-19 by the aerosol route, even when practicing social distancing.
Good communication is critical to supporting people living and working with a rare disease: current rare disease support perceived as inadequate
Authors: McMullan Julie , Crowe Ashleen L. , Bailie Caitlin , Moore Kerry , McMullan Lauren S. , Shamandi Nahid , McAneney Helen , McKnight Amy Jayne
Published: May 2020

Background

Many people living and working with rare diseases describe consistent difficulties accessing appropriate information and support. In this study an evaluation of the awareness of rare diseases, alongside related information and educational resources available for patients, their families and healthcare professionals, was conducted in 2018-2019 using an online survey and semi-structured interviews with rare disease collaborative groups (charities, voluntary and community groups) active across Northern Ireland (NI).

Results

Ninety-nine participants engaged with the survey with 31 respondents providing detailed answers. Resources such as information, communication, ‘registries’, online services, training and improvements to support services were queried. Excellent communication is an important factor in delivering good rare disease support. Training for health professionals was also highlighted as an essential element of improving support for those with a rare disease to ensure they approach people with these unique and challenging diseases in an appropriate way. Carers were mentioned several times throughout the study; it is often felt they are overlooked in rare disease research and more support should be in place for them. Current care/support for those with a rare disease was highlighted as inadequate. Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted with rare disease collaborative groups. Reoccurring themes included a need for more effective: information and communication, training for health professionals, online presence, support for carers, and involvement in research.

Conclusions

All rare disease collaborative groups agreed that current services for people living and working with a rare disease are not adequate. An important finding to consider in future research within the rare disease field is the inclusion of carers perceptions and experiences in studies. Due to the unique role a carer has in the life of a person with a rare disease it is vital that their voice is heard and their needs are listened to. This research provides insight into the support available for rare diseases across Northern Ireland, highlights unmet needs in service provision, and suggests approaches to improve rare disease support prioritising improved information and communication provision, improved access to services, and tailored support for carers of people with a rare disease.
Geographical surveillance of COVID-19: Diagnosed cases and death in the United States
Authors: Amin Raid , Hall Terri , Church Jacob , Schlierf Daniela , Kulldorff Martin
Published: May 2020

Background

COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that has spread from person to person throughout the world. Geographical disease surveillance is a powerful tool to monitor the spread of epidemics and pandemic, providing important information on the location of new hot-spots, assisting public health agencies to implement targeted approaches to minimize mortality.

Methods

County level data from January 22-April 28 was downloaded from USAfacts.org to create heat maps with ArcMap™ for diagnosed COVID-19 cases and mortality. The data was analyzed using spatial and space-time scan statistics and the SaTScan™ software, to detect geographical cluster with high incidence and mortality, adjusting for multiple testing. Analyses were adjusted for age. While the spatial clusters represent counties with unusually high counts of COVID-19 when averaged over the time period January 22-April 20, the space-time clusters allow us to identify groups of counties in which there exists a significant change over time.

Results

There were several statistically significant COVID-19 clusters for both incidence and mortality. Top clusters with high rates included the areas in and around New York City, New Orleans and Chicago, but there were also several small rural clusters. Top clusters for a recent surge in incidence and mortality included large parts of the Midwest, the Mid-Atlantic Region, and several smaller areas in and around New York and New England.

Conclusions

Spatial and space-time surveillance of COVID-19 can be useful for public health departments in their efforts to minimize mortality from the disease. It can also be applied to smaller regions with more granular data.
Prognostic Impact of Human Papillomavirus Infection on Cervical Dysplasia, Cancer, and Patient Survival in Saudi Arabia: A 10-Year Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Alhamlan F.S. , Obeid D.A. , Khayat H.H. , Tulbah A.M. , Al-Badawi I.A. , Al-Muammar T.A. , Almutairi A.N. , Almatrrouk S.A. , Alfageeh M.B. , Bakhrebah M.A. , Nassar M.S. , Al-Ahdal M.N.
Published: May 2020

Cervical cancer is caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. However, HPV prevalence data and survival rates among HPV-infected women are scare in Saudi Arabia. This study assessed the prevalence of HPV genotypes in a 10 year time-frame. Cervical biopsy specimens underwent HPV detection, HPV viral load using qPCR, HPV genotyping, p16INK4a expression measurement using immunohistochemistry. Kaplan-Meier plots were constructed to analyze overall survival rates. Of the 316 cervical specimens examined, HPV was detected in 96 (30.4%); 37.3% had cervical cancer; 14.2% cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) III, 4.1% CIN II, and 17.0% CIN I. A significant association was found between HPV-16 viral load and disease progression (P < .001, Mann-Whitney U) and between HPV presence and cervical cancer (χ2, 56.78; P < .001). The expression of p16INK4a was a significant predictor of survival: women who had p16INK4a overexpression had poorer survival rates (multivariate Cox regression, hazard ratio, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.1-8.8). In addition, multivariate models with HPV status and cervical cancer diagnosis showed that HPV status was a significant predictor of survival: HPV-positive women had better survival rates than HPV-negative women (haza. These findings suggest that implementing cervical cancer and HPV screening programs may decrease cervical cancer rates and improve survival rates of women in Saudi Arabia.
C-Reactive protein and SOFA score as early predictors of critical care requirement in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in Spain
Authors: Vaquero-Roncero Luis Mario , Sánchez-Barrado Elisa , Escobar-Macias Daniel , Arribas-Pérez Pilar , Gonzalez-Porras Jose Ramón , Bermejo-Martín Jesús F , Doncel Cristina , Bastida JM , Hernández-Valero Azucena , Montoto Carolina Jambrina-García , Sánchez-Crespo José , Alonso-Hernández Pablo , Bustos-García Domingo , Rodríguez-Calvo Antonio , Riesco-Galache Gerardo , Alzibeíro Raúl , Hernández-Sánchez Alberto , Eiros Rocío , Vargas M Carmen , Martín María Ángeles , López Teresa , Sastre José Alfonso , Garzón José Carlos , Fernández Mar , García Belén , Muñoz M Magdalena , Martínez María Isabel , García Gonzalo , Díaz Agustín , Marcano Edgar , Sagredo-Meneses Víctor , Sánchez-Hernandez Miguel Vicente
Published: May 2020

Background

Some patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 in the recent pandemic have required critical care, becoming one of the main limitations of the health systems. Our objective has been to identify potential markers at admission predicting the need for critical care in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods

We retrospectively collected and analyzed data from electronic medical records of patients with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-19 infection by real-time RT-PCR. A comparison was made between patients staying in the hospitalization ward with those who required critical care. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression methods were used to identify risk factors predicting critical care need.

Findings

Between March 15 and April 15, 2020, 150 patients under the age of 75 were selected (all with laboratory confirmed SARS-CoV-19 infection), 75 patients requiring intensive care assistance and 75 remaining the regular hospitalization ward. Most patients requiring critical care were males, 76% compared with 60% in the non-critical care group (p<0.05). Multivariable regression showed increasing odds of in-hospital critical care associated with increased C-reactive protein (CRP) (odds ratio 1.052 (1.009-1.101); p=0.0043) and higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score (1.968 (1.389-2.590) p<0.0001) both at the time of hospital admission. The AUC-ROC for the combined model was 0.83 (0.76-0.90) (vs AUC-ROC SOFA p<0.05).

Interpretation

Patients COVID-19 positive presenting at admission with high SOFA score ≥2 combined with CRP ≥ 9,1 mg/mL could help clinicians to identify them as a group that will more likely require critical care so further actions might be implemented to improve their prognosis.
Epidemiological monitoring and control perspectives: application of a parsimonious modelling framework to the COVID-19 dynamics in France
Authors: Sofonea Mircea T. , Reyné Bastien , Elie Baptiste , Djidjou-Demasse Ramsès , Selinger Christian , Michalakis Yannis , Alizon Samuel
Published: May 2020

SARS-Cov-2 virus has spread over the world creating one of the fastest pandemics ever. The absence of immunity, asymptomatic transmission, and the relatively high level of virulence of the COVID-19 infection it causes led to a massive flow of patients in intensive care units (ICU). This unprecedented situation calls for rapid and accurate mathematical models to best inform public health policies. We develop an original parsimonious model that accounts for the effect of the age of infection on the natural history of the disease. Analysing the ongoing COVID-19 in France, we estimate the value of the key epidemiological parameters, such as the basic reproduction number , and the efficiency of the national control strategy. We then use our deterministic model to explore several scenarios posterior to lock-down lifting and compare the efficiency of non pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) described in the literature.
Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance in the U.S.
Authors: Malik Amyn A. , McFadden SarahAnn M. , Elharake Jad , Omer Saad B.
Published: May 2020

Background:The COVID-19 pandemic continues to adversely affect the U.S., which leads globally in total cases and deaths. As COVID-19 vaccines are under development, public health officials and policymakers need to create strategic vaccine-acceptance messaging to effectively control the pandemic and prevent thousands of additional deaths.

Methods: Using an online platform, we surveyed the U.S. adult population in May 2020 to understand risk perceptions about the COVID-19 pandemic, acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine, and trust in sources of information. These factors were compared across basic demographics.

Findings: Of the 672 participants surveyed, 450 (67%) said they would accept a COVID-19 vaccine if it is recommended for them. Males (72%), older adults (≥55 years; 78%), Asians (81%), and college and/or graduate degree holders (75%) were more likely to accept the vaccine. When comparing reported influenza vaccine uptake to reported acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine: 1) participants who did not complete high school had a very low influenza vaccine uptake (10%), while 60% of the same group said they would accept the COVID-19 vaccine; 2) unemployed participants reported lower influenza uptake and lower COVID-19 vaccine acceptance when compared to those employed or retired; and, 3) black Americans reported lower influenza vaccine uptake and lower COVID-19 vaccine acceptance than nearly all other racial groups. Lastly, we identified geographic differences with Department of Health and Human Services regions 2 (New York) and 5 (Chicago) reporting less than 50 percent COVID-19 vaccine acceptance.

Interpretation: Although our study found a 67% acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine, there were noticeable demographic and geographical disparities in vaccine acceptance. Before a COVID-19 vaccine is introduced to the U.S., public health officials and policymakers must prioritize effective COVID-19 vaccine-acceptance messaging for all Americans, especially those who are most vulnerable.
Eat, Pray, Work: A meta-analysis of COVID-19 Transmission Risk in Common Activities of Work and Leisure
Authors: Prakash Meher K.
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

When the lockdowns are relaxed, the responsibility of mitigating the COVID-19 spread shifts from the governments to the individuals. To know how to conduct one-self, it is important for everyone to know the risks of transmission during the quotidian activities - meetings, meals, etc, from individuals who are known to them and looking healthy.

METHODS

The detailed case-studies corresponding to 425 infections upon point-exposures over a specified duration are curated. The data from the case studies is summarized and reorganized to reflect different situations from the daily life. A meta-analysis of the attack rates of transmission and the number of infections per infected person are performed.

RESULTS

The attack rates are very high in family dinners (66.7% (48.8-80.8%)) compared to sit-down dinners with lesser mixing among people eating at different tables (15.7% (12.1-20.1%)), both lasting a couple of hours. In an open workspace office floor organized in a two-half structure with shared elevators and restrooms and the employees speaking continuously, the average attack rate over the course of a few days was much higher in one half (78.7% (70.3-85.3%)) than the one for the entire floor (43.5% (37.0-50.1%)). Inferred data suggests that the transmission in elevators and trains may be lower under the conditions of using masks. In most of the instances we studied, the infected individuals spreading (35/44) and even super-spreading (3/6) were mostly without symptoms of coughing, sneezing or a fever.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the basic reproduction number R0 is around 3.0, the number of infections caused, including the super-spreading events, seem to be limited by the number of personal interactions in a group and their proximity. By acknowledging the risks in daily life, from healthy-looking persons, one may be able to organize their interactions better to reduce the chances of spreading or super-spreading infections.
Ethnics and economics in COVID-19: Meta-regression of data from countries in the New York metropolitan area
Authors: Takagi Hisato , Kuno Toshiki , Yokoyama Yujiro , Ueyama Hiroki , Matsushiro Takuya , Hari Yosuke , Ando Tomo
Published: May 2020

Ethnics and economics may affect prevalence and case fatality of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To determine whether COVID-19 prevalence and fatality are modulated by ethnics and economics, meta-regression of data from the countries in the New York metropolitan area were herein conducted. We selected 31 countries in the New York metropolitan area. 1) Prevalence and case-fatality rates of confirmed COVID-19 cases on May 20, 2020 and 2) income and poverty estimates were obtained in each country. We performed random-effects meta-regression using OpenMetaAnalys. The covariates included 1) black (%), 2) Hispanic or Latino (%), 3) poverty rates (%), and 4) median household income ($). Statistically significant (P < .05) covariates in the univariable model were together entered into the multivariable model. A slope (coefficient) of the univariable meta-regression line for COVID-19 prevalence was not significant for household income (P = .639), whereas the coefficient was significantly positive for black (coefficient, 0.021; P = .015), Hispanic/Latino (0.033; P < .001), and poverty (0.039; P = .02), which indicated that COVID-19 prevalence increased significantly as black, Hispanic/Latino, and poverty increased. The multivariable model revealed that the slope was significantly positive for only Hispanic/Latino (P < .001). The coefficient in the univariable model for COVID-19 fatality, however, was not significant for all the covariate. In conclusion, black, Hispanic/Latino, and poverty (not household income), especially Hispanic/Latino independently, may be associated with COVID-19 prevalence. There may be no association of black, Hispanic/Latino, poverty, and household income with COVID-19 fatality.
Succumbing to the COVID-19 Pandemic – Healthcare Workers not Satisfied and Intend to Leave Their Jobs
Authors: Zhang Stephen X. , Chen Jiyao , Jahanshahi Asghar Afshar , Alvarez-Risco Aldo , Dai Huiyang , Li Jizhen , Patty-Tito Ross Mary
Published: May 2020

Background

Healthcare workers are under such a tremendous amount of pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic that many have become concerned about their jobs and even intend to leave them. It is paramount for healthcare workers to feel satisfied with their jobs and lives during a pandemic.

Methods

Between 10 to 30 April, 2020, 240 healthcare workers in Bolivia completed a cross-sectional online survey, which assessed their job satisfaction, life satisfaction, and turnover intention in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

The results revealed that their number of office days predicted job satisfaction, life satisfaction, and turnover intention, but the relationships varied by their age. For example, healthcare workers’ office days negatively predicted job satisfaction for the young (e.g. at 25 years old: b=-0.21; 95% CI: −0.36 to −0.60) but positively predicted job satisfaction for the old (e.g. at 65 years old: b=0.25; 95% CI: 0.06 to 0.44).

Conclusions

These findings provide evidence to enable healthcare organizations to identify staff concerned about job satisfaction, life satisfaction, and turnover intention to enable early actions so that these staff can remain motivated to fight the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic.
Polymorphic mobile element insertions contribute to gene expression and alternative splicing in human tissues
Authors: Cao Xiaolong , Zhang Yeting , Payer Lindsay M , Lords Hannah , Steranka Jared P , Burns Kathleen H , Xing Jinchuan
Published: May 2020

Background

Mobile elements are a major source of human structural variants and some mobile elements can regulate gene expression and alternative splicing. However, the impact of polymorphic mobile element insertions (pMEIs) on gene expression and splicing in diverse human tissues has not been thoroughly studied. The multi-tissue gene expression and whole genome sequencing data generated by the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project provide a great opportunity to systematic determine pMEIs’ role in gene expression regulation in human tissues.

Results

Using the GTEx whole genome sequencing data, we identified 20,545 high-quality pMEIs from 639 individuals. We then identified pMEI-associated expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) and splicing quantitative trait loci (sQTLs) in 48 tissues by joint analysis of variants including pMEIs, single-nucleotide polymorphisms, and insertions/deletions. pMEIs were predicted to be the potential causal variant for 3,522 of the 30,147 significant eQTLs, and 3,717 of the 21,529 significant sQTLs. The pMEIs associated eQTLs and sQTLs show high level of tissue-specificity, and the pMEIs were enriched in the proximity of affected genes and in regulatory elements. Using reporter assays, we confirmed that several pMEIs associated with eQTLs and sQTLs can alter gene expression levels and isoform proportions.

Conclusion

Overall, our study shows that pMEIs are associated with thousands of gene expression and splicing variations in different tissues, and pMEIs could have a significant role in regulating tissue-specific gene expression/splicing. Detailed mechanisms for pMEI’s role in gene regulation in different tissues will be an important direction for future human genomic studies.
Differences of clinical and imaging findings in multiple generations of secondary COVID-19 infection in Xi’an, China
Authors: Li Runqing , Jian Zhijie , Jin Chao , Wang Yan , Liang Ting , Liu Zhe , Zhao Huifang , Wang Zekun , Zhou Jie , Zeng Lingxia , Yang Jian
Published: May 2020

PURPOSE

In the global presence of secondary infections with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), little is known about the transmission characteristics of COVID-19 outside Wuhan, China. We evaluated differences in clinic and radiologic findings of multiple generations of COVID-19 infection in Xi’an (Shaanxi, China) to provide more clues for the correct estimate of the disease.

METHODS

All COVID-19 infected patients reported in Xi’an up to 10 February 2020 were included for this analysis. Among these cases, clinical and chest CT data of 62 cases were obtained from three hospital in Xi’an. With this information, patients were grouped on basis of exposure history and transmission chains as first-generation, second-generation and third-generation patients. We described clinical characteristics and evaluated CT score/patterns in these COVID-19 cases.

RESULTS

There was a clear age differences in multiple generations with COVID-19 infection. Above two thirds of the second-generation (75.0%) and third-generation patients (77.8%) were aged ≥45 years while 40.0% of first-generation cases at this age (p=0.001). More than half of second-generation patients (52.8%) and third-generation patients (55.6%) have comorbidities and is predominantly hypertensive (22.8% of second-generation vs. 27.8% of third-generation infections). The main exposure of second- and third-generation patients in Xi’an is family exposure (35.2%). For evaluation of CT findings of pulmonary involvement, the total CT score were 4.22±3.00 in first-generation group, 4.35±3.03 in second-generation group and 7.62±3.56 in third-generation group (p<0.001). In all of three generations, the predominant pattern of abnormality observed was organizing pneumonia (65.5% in first-generation group, 61.5% in second-generation group and 71.4% in third-generation group). The average courses of the disease in third-generation infections has obviously extension (22.93±7.22 days of first-generation, 21.53±8.31 days of second-generation vs. 31.00±8.12 days of third-generation group,p=0.004). There were no significant differences of the pulmonary sequelae among three generation patients.

CONCLUSION

There is more serious pulmonary infection of COVID-19 pneumonia in second- and third-generation patients, which might be attribute to the elder age and comorbidity of these patients.
Relationship ofDUX4and target gene expression in FSHD myocytes
Authors: Chau Jonathan , Kong Xiangduo , Nguyen Nam , Williams Katherine , Tawil Rabi , Kiyono Tohru , Mortazavi Ali , Yokomori Kyoko
Published: May 2020

Facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD) is linked to misexpression of the transcription factor,DUX4. Although DUX4 target gene expression is often readily detectable, analysis ofDUX4expression has been limited due to its low expression in patient samples. Recently, single cell/nucleus RNA-sequencing was used to detect the native expression ofDUX4for the first time, but important spatial relationships with its target gene expression was missing. Furthermore, dynamics ofDUX4expression during myoblast differentiation has not been fully explored. In order to study the spatiotemporal relationship ofDUX4and key target genes, we performed RNA FISH on immortalized FSHD2 patient skeletal muscle cells. Using two probe sets,DUX4transcripts were detected in 1-4% of myotubes after 3-day differentiationin vitro. We found thatDUX4transcripts mainly localize as foci in one or two nuclei in a myotube compared to abundant accumulation of the target gene transcripts in the cytoplasm. Over a 13-day differentiation timecourse,DUX4expression without target gene expression significantly increased and peaked at day 7. Target gene expression correlates better withDUX4expression early in differentiation while the expression of target genes without detectableDUX4transcripts increases later. Consistently, shRNA depletion of DUX4-activated transcription factors, DUXA and LEUTX, specifically repressed a DUX4-target gene,KDM4E, later in differentiation, suggesting that following the initial activation by DUX4, target genes themselves contribute to the maintenance of downstream gene expression. Together,in situdetection of theDUX4and target gene transcripts provided new insight into dynamics of DUX4 transcriptional network in FSHD patient myocytes.

Significance Statement

FSHD is the third most common muscular dystrophy and is associated with upregulation ofDUX4, a transcription factor, and its target genes. Although target genes are easily detectable in FSHD, low frequencyDUX4upregulation in patient myocytes is difficult to detect, and examining the relationship and dynamics ofDUX4and target gene expression without artificial overexpression ofDUX4has been challenging. Using RNAScope with highly specific probes, we detect the endogenousDUX4and target gene transcriptsin situin patient skeletal myotubes during differentiationin vitro. Our study reveals a uniqueDUX4expression pattern and its relationship to the expression of target genes, and evidence for self-sustainability of the target gene network. The study provides important new insights into the FSHD disease mechanism.
Physical activity shapes the intestinal microbiome and immunity of healthy mice but has no protective effects against colitis in MUC2-/- mice
Authors: Estaki Mehrbod , Morck Douglas W. , Quin Candice , Pither Jason , Barnett Jacqueline A. , Gill Sandeep K. , Gibson Deanna L.
Published: May 2020

The interactions among humans, their environment, and the trillions of microbes residing within the human intestinal tract form a tripartite relationship that is fundamental to the overall health of the host. Disruptions in the delicate balance between the intestinal microbiota and their host immunity are implicated in various chronic diseases including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There is no known cure for IBD, therefore, novel therapeutics targeting prevention and symptoms management are of great interest. Recently, physical activity in healthy mice was shown to be protective against chemically-induced colitis, however the benefits of physical activity during or following disease onset is not known. In this study, we examine whether voluntary wheel running is protective against primary disease symptoms in a mucin 2 deficient (Muc2-/-) life-long model of murine colitis. We show that 6 weeks of wheel running in healthy C57BL/6 mice leads to distinct changes in fecal bacteriome, increased butyrate production, and modulation in colonic gene expression of various cytokines, suggesting an overall primed anti-inflammatory state. However, these physical activity-derived benefits are not present in Muc2-/- mice harboring a dysfunctional mucosal layer from birth, ultimately showing no improvements in clinical signs. We extrapolate from our findings that while physical activity in healthy individuals may be an important preventative measure against IBD, for those with a compromised intestinal mucosa, a commonality in IBD patients, these benefits are lost.
The use of hybrid data-dependent and -independent acquisition spectral libraries empower dual-proteome profiling
Authors: Willems Patrick , Fels Ursula , Staes An , Gevaert Kris , Damme Petra Van
Published: May 2020

In the context of bacterial infections, it is imperative that physiological responses can be studied in an integrated manner, meaning a simultaneous analysis of both the host and the pathogen responses. To improve the sensitivity of detection, data-independent acquisition (DIA) based proteomics was found to outperform data-dependent acquisition (DDA) workflows in identifying and quantifying low abundant proteins. Here, by making use of representative bacterial pathogen/host proteome samples, we report an optimized hybrid library generation workflow for data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry relying on the use of data-dependent andin silicopredicted spectral libraries. When compared to searching DDA experiment-specific libraries only, the use of hybrid libraries significantly improved peptide detection to an extent suggesting that infection relevant host-pathogen conditions could be profiled in sufficient depth without the need of a priori bacterial pathogen enrichment when studying the bacterial proteome.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Discovery of a novel simian pegivirus in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) with lymphocytic enterocolitis
Authors: Heffron Anna S. , Lauck Michael , Somsen Elizabeth D. , Townsend Elizabeth C. , Bailey Adam L. , Sosa Megan , Eickhoff Jens , Capuano Saverio , Newman Christina M. , Kuhn Jens H. , Mejia Andres , Simmons Heather A. , O’Connor David H.
Published: May 2020

From 2010 to 2015, 73 common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) housed at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (WNPRC) were diagnosed postmortem with lymphocytic enterocolitis. We used unbiased deep-sequencing to screen the blood of deceased enterocolitis-positive marmosets for the presence of RNA viruses. In five out of eight marmosets with lymphocytic enterocolitis, we discovered a novel pegivirus that was not present in ten subsequently deep-sequenced matched, clinically-normal common marmosets with no evidence of lymphocytic enterocolitis. The novel virus, which we have named Southwest bike trail virus (SOBV), is most closely related (68% nucleotide identity) to a strain of simian pegivirus A that was previously isolated from a three-striped night monkey (Aotus trivirgatus). To determine the prevalence of this novel virus within the WNPRC marmoset colony, we screened 146 living animals and found an overall prevalence of 34% (50/146). Over the next four years, 85 of the 146 screened marmosets died or were euthanized and were examined histologically for lymphocytic enterocolitis. Out of these 85 animals, 27 SOBV-positive common marmosets had developed lymphocytic enterocolitis, compared to 42 SOBV-negative common marmosets, indicating no evidence of an association between this virus and development of enterocolitis in this cohort (p=0.0798). The novel pegivirus was also found in two of 32 (6%) clinically-normal common marmosets screened while in quarantine during the transfer from the New England Primate Research Center to the WNPRC, suggesting SOBV has different prevalence at different centers and could exert confounding influences on the comparison of marmoset studies from multiple centers.

Importance

Common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) are a valuable model species. We discovered two variants of a novel simian pegivirus, which we named the Southwest bike trail virus (SOBV), in common marmosets which had postmortem histologic diagnosis of lymphocytic enterocolitis. The virus was not present in ten matched, clinically-normal controls. We screened 146 live healthy common marmosets in the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center colony and found 34% (50/146) of the animals were SOBV-positive. SOBV was also present in two of 32 (6%) clinically-normal common marmosets from the New England Primate Research Center. These findings could have confounding effects in animal studies, especially those in which infection-free animals are desired, and they demonstrate the need for further investigations into SOBV transmission, the length of time of SOBV persistence, and SOBV prevalence at other primate centers, in order to increase understanding of the effects of SOBV and of this viral genus.
Unraveling the fuzzy predictors of stress at work
Authors: Vatankhah Sanaz , Bouzari Mona , Safavi Homayoun Pasha
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to identify and rank the significant determinants of stress among tourism and hospitality employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach is used to identify and rank workplace stressors. Particularly, the synthesis of relative literature and interview with the panel of experts resulted in the preliminary identification of workplace stressors. Underpinned by fuzzy theory, in addition, the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process is used to rank identified criteria and relative sub-criteria.

Findings

Results of three-wave investigation lead to an index comprising key components and weighted ranking of workplace stressors in the tourism and hospitality industry with job characteristics as the most important criteria and mental demand as the most salient sub-criteria influencing stress at work.

Research limitations/implications

The pattern of findings enhances the current knowledge regarding significant workplace stressors in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Practical implications

Compositional framework and the weight-based ranking of identified components may act as a source of strategic solution for managers to reduce and manage stress among employees.

Originality/value

Workplace stressors have attracted considerable research attention, however, no general consensus yet exists among scholars and practitioners conferring to the key composition and relative importance of workplace stressors.
The need for exercise in exergaming perspective of the uses and gratifications theory
Authors: Pham Thi Tuan Linh , Huang Han-Chung , Cheng T.C.E. , Wong May-Kuen , Liao Yen-Ni , Yang Ya-Hui , Teng Ching-I
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Playing exergames may resemble doing conventional exercise and thus has the potential to enhance users’ health. However, no study has yet examined whether and how a need for exercise impacts users’ intention to continuously play exergames, i.e. continuance intention and its antecedents. We developed a model grounded in the uses and gratifications theory (UGT) to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

We recruited 583 participants to play exergames and collected their psychological responses and physical information. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

We found that health consciousness and perceived exercise benefits are positively related to a need for exercise, which is, in turn, positively related to continuance intention. Moreover, perceived exergame similarity with exercise strengthens the positive link between the need for exercise and continuance intention.

Originality/value

This is the first study using the UGT to explain the underlying mechanism linking health consciousness to continuance intention in the playing of exergames. In addition, we introduced the need for exercise as a novel construct in this study. Our findings provide insights to managers on incorporating health-related features into their exergame products to motivate users' engagement in playing exergames.
Downregulation of lncRNA‐HEIH curbs esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression by modulating miR‐4458/PBX3
Authors: Wang Dawei , You Dong , Pan Yinghua , Liu Peiji
Published: May 2020

Background

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been found to play a specific part in the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), except for lncRNA HEIH. Here, we aimed to discover the molecular mechanisms of HEIH in ESCC.

Methods

We detected the expression level of HEIH and miR‐4458 in ESCC tissues and cells using qRT‐PCR assay. A dual luciferase reporter assay was used to check the relationship between HEIH, miR‐4458 or PBX3. Counting Clock Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay and transwell assay were used to detect ESCC cell proliferation and invasion capability. Western blot analysis was used to measure the protein expression level of PBX3.

Results

HEIH was confirmed to be upregulated in both ESCC tissues and cell lines. Inversely, there was a downregulation of miR‐4458 in ESCC tissues and cell lines. Functionally, we noticed that depletion of HEIH restrained ESCC cell viability, and invasion capability. Moreover, PBX silencing was found to restrain ESCC cell progression, while miR‐4458 or HEIH vector both could alleviate its suppressive effect.

Conclusions

The present study clarified that HEIH regulated ESCC progression by suppressing miR‐4458 and upregulating PBX3. Our findings suggested that HEIH could be a possible therapeutic target for ESCC treatment.
Effects of Prazosin on Provoked Alcohol Craving and Autonomic and Neuroendocrine Response to Stress in Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Milivojevic Verica , Angarita Gustavo A. , Hermes Gretchen , Sinha Rajita , Fox Helen C.
Published: May 2020

Background

Chronic alcohol use results in changes to stress biology and autonomic arousal contributing to acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms, neuroendocrine tolerance of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis responses, high stress‐induced craving, and risk of alcohol relapse. Thus, stress coping and recovery from alcohol during early abstinence may be jeopardized by such stress system dysfunction. Significant preclinical evidence suggests that noradrenergic disruption may contribute to these alcohol‐related stress arousal changes and that alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonists, such as prazosin, may normalize these stress system adaptations and reduce alcohol intake. Thus, we hypothesized that prazosin would reduce stress‐induced craving and improve neuroendocrine and autonomic response to stress and alcohol cue exposure during early abstinence. We secondarily also assessed the role of lifetime anxiety disorders on these prazosin effects.

Methods

Forty inpatient treatment‐seeking alcohol‐dependent individuals were randomly assigned to receive placebo (n = 18) or 16 mg/d, T.I.D., prazosin (n = 22) in a double‐blind manner, titrated over 2 weeks. In weeks 3 to 4 after achieving full dose, patients were exposed to 3 5‐minute personalized guided imagery conditions (stress cue, alcohol cue, neutral/relaxing cue), on 3 consecutive days in a random, counterbalanced order. Alcohol craving, anxiety, heart rate, cortisol, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels were assessed at baseline, following imagery and at repeated recovery timepoints.

Results

Prazosin reduced stress cue–induced alcohol craving (p < 0.05) and stress‐ and alcohol cue–induced anxiety (p < 0.05) and increased heart rate responses in all imagery conditions (p < 0.05). Prazosin lowered basal cortisol and ACTH (p’s < 0.05) and attenuated stress cue–induced rises in cortisol (p < 0.05) versus placebo. Finally, in those without lifetime anxiety disorder, the placebo group showed stress‐ and alcohol cue–induced increases in cortisol (p’s < 0.05), while the prazosin group did not.

Conclusions

Prazosin may attenuate stress cue–induced alcohol craving and anxiety during early abstinence while improving adrenergic and stress system function, effects which are independent of a history of lifetime anxiety disorders.
The hermit crab–shell relationship through the lens of interaction networks: The use of network metrics and species role across communities
Authors: da Silva Alexandre R. , Rodrigues Gabriel F.B. , Lima Daniel , Cobo Valter J. , da Costa Rogério C. , Castilho Antonio L.
Published: May 2020

Hermit crabs are among the most unique crustaceans because they have a non‐calcified pleon, and they often use empty gastropod shells for shelter and protection. The lack of an adequate shell impacts their growth, reproduction and other population features especially because the shell resource might not be found for the entire population or community. This study focuses on the relationship between hermit crabs and their shells using network metrics. We analysed the nestedness, modularity, network specialisation, species specialisation and species role in eight hermit crab communities from two different types of substrate (rock and soft bottom). Most of these communities had a modular and non‐nested pattern. Some communities presented different specialisation levels in terms of resource use (generalist or specialist) with species showing different roles across communities. These patterns could be related to the intra‐/interspecific competition mechanism and by the resource (shell) usage pattern in the different regions. According to species roles, some species characterised as connectors can be addressed as conservation targets. The network approach in hermit crab/shell relationship proved to be an important tool in assessing their interaction in a community level.
Infrastructure Improvements and Maize Market Integration: Bridging the Zambezi in Mozambique
Authors: Jones Sam , Salazar César
Published: May 2020

Historically, transport infrastructure connecting the most agriculturally productive areas of Mozambique and the richer southern region has been poor. A primary bottleneck was an unreliable ferry service over the Zambezi river, addressed by construction of a road bridge in 2009. In this paper we identify the impact of this transport infrastructure enhancement on integration of national maize markets. Applying a dyadic regression approach, we find a significant narrowing of equilibrium price differences among market pairs that experienced a large relative reduction in journey times due to the new bridge. We also estimate that the elasticity of the absolute price differential with respect to intermarket driving times is around 30%. As such, the new bridge infrastructure enhanced market integration by shrinking the “internal border” at the river, but such benefits were spatially limited.
Differences in the immunosurveillance pattern associated with DNA mismatch repair status between right‐sided and left‐sided colorectal cancer
Authors: Kanno Hiroki , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Yoshida Naohiro , Sudo Tomoya , Nakashima Kazutaka , Takeuchi Mai , Nomura Yoriko , Seto Masao , Hisaka Toru , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Okuda Koji , Akagi Yoshito , Ohshima Koichi
Published: May 2020

Tumor location and immunity play important roles in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to investigate the differences in the immunosurveillance pattern between right‐ and left‐sided CRC and analyze their association with clinicopathologic features, including mismatch repair (MMR) status. We included surgically resected stage II/III CRC cases and evaluated the immunohistochemical findings of HLA class I, HLA class II, programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1), PD‐1, CTLA‐4, CD3, CD4, CD8, TIA‐1, T‐bet, GATA3, RORγT, Foxp3, and CD163. A total of 117 patients were included in the analyses; of these, 30 and 87 had right‐ and left‐sided cancer, respectively. Tumor immunity varied according to the tumor location in the overall cohort. Analysis of the tumors excluding those with DNA mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency also revealed that tumor immunity differed according to the tumor location. In right‐sided colon cancer (CC), high expression of Foxp3 (P = .0055) and TIA‐1 (P = .0396) were associated with significantly better disease‐free survival (DFS). High CD8 (P = .0808) and CD3 (P = .0863) expression tended to have better DFS. Furthermore, in left‐sided CRC, only high PD‐L1 expression in the stroma (P = .0426) was associated with better DFS. In multivariate analysis, high Foxp3 expression in right‐sided CC was an independent prognostic factor for DFS (hazard ratio, 7.6445; 95% confidence interval, 1.2091‐150.35; P = .0284). In conclusion, the immunosurveillance pattern differs between right‐ and left‐sided CRC, even after adjusting for MMR deficiency.
Long‐term neural regeneration following injury to the peroneal branch of the sciatic nerve in sheep
Authors: Roballo Kelly C.S. , Burns Daniel T. , Ghnenis Adel B. , Osimanjiang Wupu , Bushman Jared S.
Published: May 2020

Peripheral nerves (PNs) are frequently injured as a result of trauma or disease. Development of therapies to regenerate PNs requires the use of animal models, typically beginning in rodents and progressing to larger species. There are several large animal models of PN regeneration that each has their benefits and drawbacks. Sheep have been used in PN studies due to their similarities in body weight to humans and the ease and lesser expense in their care and housing relative to other species. We have investigated the use of sheep for studies of PN regeneration and have developed and tested an injury model in the peroneal branch of the sciatic nerve. Three experimental groups were tested on mature sheep: a bisection; a 5‐cm reverse autograft; and sham surgery. Protocols were developed for the post‐operative care for animals with this injury, and regeneration was tracked for extended time points via compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) and endpoint assessments of nerve morphometry, muscle mass and muscle fibrosis. Results indicate the practical viability of this PN injury model and show distinctions in the degree and rate of regeneration between bisection and reverse autograft that persisted 14 months. This long‐term study shows bisections lead to significantly improved CMAPS and muscle mass and lesser muscle fibrosis as compared to reverse autograft. The persistence of these discernable changes between two relatively similar experimental groups out to extended time points is an indication of the sensitivity of this nerve section and its potential applicability for comparative studies.