bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Factors Influencing the Risky Cycling Behaviors of Young Cyclists Aged 15–24 Years: A Questionnaire‐Based Study in China
Authors: Wang Cheng , Zhang Weihua , Feng Zhongxiang , Wang Kun , Gao Yuhua
Published: May 2020

Road traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for young people, among whom cyclists account for a higher percentage of injuries and deaths than any other road users. This study aimed to examine the factor structure of the Young Cyclist Behavior Questionnaire (YCBQ) and investigate the relationships among demographic characteristics, cycling use‐related variables, perceived risk, perceived cycling skills, and risky cycling behaviors among young people. A sample of 448 cyclists (mean age of 20.37 years) completed the questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling were utilized. The YCBQ had a clear factorial structure, items with high factor loadings, and good internal consistency. The five‐factor structure included traffic violations, impulsive behaviors, ordinary violations, distractions, and errors. Risky cycling behaviors could be explained by gender, age, perceived risk, and perceived cycling skills, with the model explaining 37% of the variance. Gender had the greatest impact on risky cycling behaviors; male individuals were more likely to engage in risky behaviors. Young cyclists with higher levels of perceived risk had lower probabilities of engaging in risky cycling behaviors. Cyclists with lower scores on perceived cycling skills were more likely to report engaging in risky cycling behaviors. Age significantly explained risky behaviors; the younger the cyclist was, the higher his or her risky behaviors score. This research provides a theoretical foundation for the prevention of risky behaviors among young cyclists. Regarding intervention design, attention to the identified gender differences, the need to strengthen the ability to perceive risk, and the importance of road safety education for young cyclists may promote safer cycling.
Public policy, footloose capital, and union influence
Authors: Palokangas Tapio
Published: May 2020

This document sets up a unionized general oligopolistic equilibrium model of countries, where capital is footloose and governments maximize utilitarian welfare. When capital owners have weak influence on public policy, there is unemployment and the governments compete for jobs, causing a distortion with suboptimal wages. Then globalization—as characterized by a decrease in impediments to international investment—increases the wage elasticity of capital flight, decreasing wages and increasing employment. This benefits the capital owners and the unemployed workers getting a job, but harms the other workers. International coordination of public policy alleviates these consequences of globalization.
The genetic and functional analysis of flavor in commercial tomato: the FLORAL4 gene underlies a QTL for floral aroma volatiles in tomato fruit
Authors: Tikunov Yury M. , Roohanitaziani Raana , Meijer‐Dekens Fien , Molthoff Jos , Paulo Joao , Finkers Richard , Capel Iris , Carvajal Moreno Fatima , Maliepaard Chris , Nijenhuis‐de Vries Mariska , Labrie Caroline W. , Verkerke Wouter , van Heusden Adriaan W. , van Eeuwijk Fred , Visser Richard G. F. , Bovy Arnaud G.
Published: May 2020

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) has become a popular model for genetic studies of fruit flavor in the last two decades. In this article we present a study of tomato fruit flavor, including an analysis of the genetic, metabolic and sensorial variation of a collection of contemporary commercial glasshouse tomato cultivars, followed by a validation of the associations found by quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis of representative biparental segregating populations. This led to the identification of the major sensorial and chemical components determining fruit flavor variation and detection of the underlying QTLs. The high representation of QTL haplotypes in the breeders’ germplasm suggests that there is great potential for applying these QTLs in current breeding programs aimed at improving tomato flavor. A QTL on chromosome 4 was found to affect the levels of the phenylalanine‐derived volatiles (PHEVs) 2‐phenylethanol, phenylacetaldehyde and 1‐nitro‐2‐phenylethane. Fruits of near‐isogenic lines contrasting for this locus and in the composition of PHEVs significantly differed in the perception of fruity and rose‐hip‐like aroma. The PHEV locus was fine mapped, which allowed for the identification of FLORAL4 as a candidate gene for PHEV regulation. Using a gene‐editing‐based (CRISPR‐CAS9) reverse‐genetics approach, FLORAL4 was demonstrated to be the key factor in this QTL affecting PHEV accumulation in tomato fruit.
Blood transfusion safety in the country of Georgia: collateral benefit from a national hepatitis C elimination program
Authors: Bloch Evan M. , Kipiani Eteri , Shadaker Shaun , Alkhazashvili Maia , Gvinjilia Lia , Kuchuloria Tinatin , Chitadze Nazibrola , Keating Sheila M. , Gamkrelidze Amiran , Turdziladze Alexander , Getia Vladimer , Nasrullah Muazzam , Averhoff Francisco , Izoria Mariam , Skaggs Beth
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

In April 2015, the government of Georgia (country) initiated the worldʼs first national hepatitis C elimination program. An analysis of blood donor infectious screening data was conducted to inform a strategic plan to advance blood transfusion safety in Georgia.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Descriptive analysis of blood donation records (2015‐2017) was performed to elucidate differences in demographics, donor type, remuneration status, and seroprevalence for infectious markers (hepatitis C virus antibody [anti‐HCV], human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], hepatitis B virus surface antigen [HBsAg], and Treponema pallidum). For regression analysis, final models included all variables associated with the outcome in bivariate analysis (chi‐square) with a p value of less than 0.05.

RESULTS

During 2015 to 2017, there were 251,428 donations in Georgia, representing 112,093 unique donors; 68.5% were from male donors, and 51.2% of donors were paid or replacement (friends or family of intended recipient). The overall seroprevalence significantly declined from 2015 to 2017 for anti‐HCV (2.3%‐1.4%), HBsAg (1.5%‐1.1%), and T. pallidum (1.1%‐0.7%) [p < 0.0001]; the decline was not significant for HIV (0.2%‐0.1%). Only 41.0% of anti‐HCV seropositive donors underwent additional testing to confirm viremia. Infectious marker seroprevalence varied by age, sex, and geography. In multivariable analysis, first‐time and paid donor status were associated with seropositivity for all four infectious markers.

CONCLUSION

A decline during the study period in infectious markers suggests improvement in blood safety in Georgia. Areas that need further improvement are donor recruitment, standardization of screening and diagnostic follow‐up, quality assurance, and posttransfusion surveillance.
FcγR2B B2.4 haplotype predicts increased risk of red blood cell alloimmunization in sickle cell disease patients
Authors: Costa Neto Abel , Santos Flávia , Ribeiro Ingrid , Oliveira Valeria , Dezan Marcia , Kashima Simone , Covas Dimas , Pereira Alexandre , Fonseca Guilherme , Moreira Frederico , Krieger José , Gualandro Sandra , Rocha Vanderson , Mendrone Alfredo , Dinardo Carla L.
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization is an important transfusion complication which is prevalent among sickle cell disease (SCD) patients. Autoimmune diseases are a known risk factor for RBC alloimmunization, suggesting that autoimmunity and post‐transfusion alloantibody development occur through similar physiopathological pathways. Polymorphisms in the FcγR2B gene have already been associated with several autoimmune disorders and hypothetically could be associated with RBC alloimmunization. Our goal was to evaluate if important polymorphisms of FcγR2B have an impact on the risk of RBC alloimmunization among SCD patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a case–control study in which alloimmunized and non‐alloimmunized SCD patients were compared in terms of the genotype frequency of the FcγR2B polymorphisms ‐386G/C, ‐120 T/A, and 695C/T, genotyped through direct Sanger sequencing.

RESULTS

A total of 237 patients met the eligibility criteria, 120 cases (alloimmunized) and 117 controls (non‐alloimmunized). RBC alloimmunization was associated with female sex (p < 0.001), lifetime number of RBC units transfused (p = 0.002) and 120 T/A FcγR2B genotype (p = 0.031). The FcγR2B promoter region haplotype 2B.4 (386C120A) was positively associated with RBC alloimunization (p = 0.045). The logistic regression (LR) model identified female sex (OR 10.03, CI 95% 5.16‐19.49; p < 0.001) and FcγR2B 2B.4 haplotype (OR 4.55, CI95% 1.1118.65; p = 0.035) as independent predictors of RBC alloimmunization in SCD patients.

CONCLUSION

SCD patients with the FcγR2B 2B.4 haplotype had over a fourfold higher risk for RBC alloimmunization. This highlights the role played by FcγR2B on RBC alloimmunization and may be helpful in identifying the immune responders.
Factors associated withEchinococcus multilocularisinfection in coyotes in southern Ontario
Authors: Kotwa Jonathon D. , Pearl David L. , Isaksson Mats , Jardine Claire M. , Berke Olaf , Mercer Nicola J. , Osterman‐Lind Eva , Peregrine Andrew S.
Published: May 2020

Echinococcus multiloculariswas recently reported in wild canids across southern Ontario, a newly recognized endemic area in Canada. In such areas, a comprehensive understanding of factors associated with infection in definitive hosts (wild canids) is critical for mitigating risk of transmission to humans. However, little is known about the transmission dynamics of the parasite in definitive hosts for this region. A study was therefore carried out to investigate the association of host‐level (sex, body condition), environmental (southern Ontario region, land cover), temporal (season, hunting season, calendar year) and extraneous factors (submitter type) withE. multilocularisinfection in coyotes in southern Ontario. Between November 2015 and March 2017, 416 coyotes were collected from across the region as part of a study that investigated the prevalence and distribution of the parasite in wild canids; approximately 24% of coyotes were positive forE. multilocularis.Associations between infection and factors of interest were assessed via a mixed‐effects logistic regression model with a random intercept for submitter to account for clustering. Coyotes with poor body condition were at greater odds ofE. multilocularisinfection than those in good condition (odds ratio [OR] 2.14; 95% CI: 1.08–4.26;p = .030). A negative association was observed between infection in coyotes and the proportion of natural land in a coyote's estimated home range (OR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.52–0.85;p = .001). Coyotes from the western region of southern Ontario had lower odds of infection compared to coyotes from the central region (OR: 0.26; 95% CI: 0.12–0.55;p < .001). These results can be used to help guide future public health prevention strategies for human alveolar echinococcosis.
Nutrition students and mathematics: Competent but not confident
Authors: Clark Karin M , Cooke Audrey , James Anthony P , Halse Rhiannon E
Published: May 2020

Aim: To assess skills, competence and disposition of nutrition students towards mathematics. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, to assess the numeracy of undergraduate nutrition students enrolled in a level 2 biochemistry unit (n = 40). Primary outcome measures were evaluations of competence when answering discipline-specific questions and students’ confidence and perceived ease and disposition towards mathematics. Results: The majority of students were competent (mean diagnostic test score = 72%), with only four students scoring below the competence midpoint. However, many students reported low confidence and a high perception of difficulty, indicated by the majority of scores above the line of equality in self-confidence and ease of questions. Furthermore, 30% of students identified as having anxiety related to mathematical understanding and mathematical knowledge below the midpoint. Conclusions: Results showed a significant proportion of students were not confident with mathematics, despite being competent. Anxiety concerning knowledge and understanding was present in 30% of students. These findings are important for tailoring a numeracy support framework that specifically addresses confidence and disposition towards mathematics to ensure that students can succeed in the mathematical challenges inherent to their course and future nutrition career.
Discussion Paper: Social accountability for students in a machine learning era
Authors: Williams Logan Zane John , Grainger Rebecca
Published: May 2020

Over the last 30 years, there have been repeated calls to integrate health informatics into undergraduate health professional curricula, in recognition of the integral role computing plays in medicine. The rise of big data sets in health, and the application of advanced computer algorithms to interrogate these, is yet another call for health professionals to receive appropriate training in these technologies. Machine learning (ML) algorithms can learn tasks or make decisions without a requirement for specific behaviours to be pre-programmed. High-impact literature has described ML approaches to clinical problems such as achieving more accurate and timely diagnoses, increasing precision of prognosis and guiding treatment. Despite the promise of ML in healthcare, there are risks of adverse outcomes, unanticipated consequences, misuse and even abuse of ML technologies. For health professionals to advocate for patients and hold those developing ML algorithms in healthcare accountable, they must feel comfortable discussing the fundamental concepts and limitations of ML in healthcare. Healthcare professionals are uniquely positioned to identify problems that could be solved by ML and related technologies. Yet, there is inadequate coverage of ML, or of the wider field of health informatics, in most medical curricula. To create future health professionals who can advocate for positive change and ensure that patients remain at the centre of ML applications in healthcare, we must provide future health professionals with an understanding of how ML will change healthcare delivery and the doctor–patient dynamic, as well as new ethical challenges that arise with the digital healthcare revolution.
MoS2-supported Au31 for CO hydrogenation: A first-principle study
Authors: Jiang Tao , Le Duy , Rahman Talat S.
Published: May 2020

While the basal plane of single-layer molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) is inert, attempts have been made to functionalize it chemically through the creation of defects and/or addition of dopants. With nanoparticles as dopants, the authors present density functional theory-based calculations of the hydrogenation of CO on a 31-atom, bilayer Au cluster supported on single-layer MoS2 (Au31/MoS2). Not surprisingly, the adsorption and reaction of all species involved in the hydrogenation occur at the edges of the cluster—the regions at which the interaction between MoS2 and the Au cluster is tracked to be the strongest. The authors find two possible mechanisms that lead to the formation of methanol: (1) CO* → CHO* → CH2O* → CH3O* → CH3OH* and (2) CO* → CHO* → HCOH* → CH2OH* → CH3OH*, where * indicates the adsorbed species. Detailed analysis of the reaction pathways, however, does not result in favoring one mechanism over the other. Rather, both mechanisms are facile. In addition, the rate-limiting step in each mechanism is found to be the formation of the formyl radical group (CO* + H* → CHO*).
Sensitivity of Neuromechanical Predictions to Choice of Glenohumeral Stability Modeling Approach
Authors: McFarland Daniel C. , Brynildsen Alexander G. , Saul Katherine R.
Published: May 2020

Most upper-extremity musculoskeletal models represent the glenohumeral joint with an inherently stable ball-and-socket, but the physiological joint requires active muscle coordination for stability. The authors evaluated sensitivity of common predicted outcomes (instability, net glenohumeral reaction force, and rotator cuff activations) to different implementations of active stabilizing mechanisms (constraining net joint reaction direction and incorporating normalized surface electromyography [EMG]). Both EMG and reaction force constraints successfully reduced joint instability. For flexion, incorporating any normalized surface EMG data reduced predicted instability by 54.8%, whereas incorporating any force constraint reduced predicted instability by 43.1%. Other outcomes were sensitive to EMG constraints, but not to force constraints. For flexion, incorporating normalized surface EMG data increased predicted magnitudes of joint reaction force and rotator cuff activations by 28.7% and 88.4%, respectively. Force constraints had no influence on these predicted outcomes for all tasks evaluated. More restrictive EMG constraints also tended to overconstrain the model, making it challenging to accurately track input kinematics. Therefore, force constraints may be a more robust choice when representing stability.
Stable and Unstable Load Carriage Effects on the Postural Control of Older Adults
Authors: Walsh Gregory S. , Low Daniel C. , Arkesteijn Marco
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of backpack load carriage on quiet standing postural control and limits of stability (LOS) of older adults. Fourteen older adults (65 [6] y) performed quiet standing and a forward, right, and left LOS test in 3 conditions, unloaded, stable, and unstable backpack loads while activity of 4 leg muscles was recorded. Stable and unstable loads decreased postural sway (main effect , stable P < .001, unstable P < .001), mediolateral (main effect , stable P = .002, unstable P = .018) and anterior–posterior (main effect , stable P < .001, unstable P = .001) fractal dimension, and LOS distance (main effect , stable P = .011, unstable P = .046) compared with unloaded. Rectus femoris (main effect , stable P = .001, unstable P = .010) and gastrocnemius (main effect , unstable P = .027) activity increased in loaded conditions during LOS and quiet standing. Gastrocnemius–tibialis anterior coactivation was greater in unstable load than stable loaded quiet standing (main effect , P = .040). These findings suggest older adults adopt conservative postural control strategies minimizing the need for postural corrections in loaded conditions. Reduced LOS may also increase fall risk when carrying a load. However, there was no difference between unstable and stable loads for postural control variables.
Do Peers Increase Older Adults’ Participation in Strength Training? Pilot Randomized Trial
Authors: Burton Elissa , Levit Karen , Codde Jim , Hill Keith D. , Hill Anne-Marie
Published: May 2020

Fewer than 20% of older adults participate in strength training (ST). Barriers to ST participation include not knowing where to go or not having someone to go with. To address these barriers, the authors provided older adults with a peer (older person already participating in ST) to support their engagement. The aim of this pilot randomized controlled trial was to determine whether older adults who were provided with a peer when participating in ST were more likely to be participating in ST 4 weeks postintervention, compared with those receiving ST alone. Fifty-one ST participants were recruited; 40 completed the intervention and postintervention data collection (78.4%). Providing peer support with ST did not significantly increase ST participation (p = .775). However, both groups made significant improvements over time in lower-limb strength and mobility. Participants in either group who continued the ST program (55%) had made additional significant improvements in lower-limb strength and mobility.
Required Health and Wellness Courses: Associations With College Student Physical Activity Behavior and Attitudes
Authors: Agans Jennifer P. , Wilson Oliver W.A. , Bopp Melissa
Published: May 2020

Objective: To assess the extent to which college student physical activity behaviors and attitudes are associated with enrollment in required, but self-selected, health and wellness courses. Participants: Data were analyzed from 1473 undergraduate students (60% women) taking health and wellness courses at a large northeastern university. Methods: Demographic characteristics and activity levels at the time of course enrollment were assessed in relation to course selection and activity levels after course completion. One-way analysis of variance tests were used to assess the differences in the characteristics of students enrolling in different types of health and wellness courses, and paired samples t tests were used to assess the differences in physical activity and related attitudes from the time of enrollment to the end of the semester. Results: Course selection was predicted by demographic characteristics and precourse activity levels. Overall, no significant change in activity levels was observed over the course of one semester, although some effects were observed within certain types of activities. Conclusions: When given the option, college students appear to select health and wellness courses that match their current activity levels. These courses do not significantly change the average student’s behavior or attitudes about physical activity.
Does Low-Level Laser Therapy Decrease Muscle-Damaging Mediators After Performance in Soccer Athletes Versus Sham Laser Treatment? A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Bettleyon Jordan , Kaminski Thomas W.
Published: May 2020

Clinical Scenario: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a controversial topic for its use in athletic recovery, mainly due to inconsistency in research regarding the application of LLLT. Articles on LLLT have assessed its effectiveness in untrained humans through pain scales, functional scales, and blood draws, and it has been found capable in nonathletic rehabilitative use. The controversy lies with LLLT in the recovering athlete. Not only do athletes need to perform at high levels, but each sport is unique in the metabolic demands placed on the athletes’ bodies. This modality can alter chemical mediators of the inflammatory process, specifically blood lactate (BL) and creatine kinase (CK). During soccer contests, it is a common problem for athletes to have an average CK level of 800 U/L and BL of 8 mmol·L, increasing delayed-onset muscle soreness and fatigue. Micro-CK level elevation is associated with cellular membrane damage, localized hypoxia, and electrolyte imbalances, hindering the recovery process. Clinical Question: Does LLLT decrease muscle-damaging mediators effecting player fatigue and delayed-onset muscle soreness after performance in soccer athletes versus sham treatment? Summary of Key Findings: In 3 studies, preperformance, postperformance, or preperformance and postperformance LLLT was performed and evaluated BL (2 of 3) and CK (2 of 3). In each article, BL and CK showed a significant decrease (P < .05) when performed either preperformance or postperformance versus the control group. The greatest decrease in these mediators was noticed when postperformance laser therapy was performed. Clinical Bottom Line: LLLT at 10, 30, or 50 J performed at a minimum of 2 locations on the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis bilaterally for 10 seconds each is significant in decreasing blood serum levels of BL and CK when performed postexercise. Strength of Recommendations: All 3 articles obtained a Physiotherapy Evidence Database score of ≥8/10.
Rapid implementation of mobile technology for real-time epidemiology of COVID-19
Authors: Drew David A. , Nguyen Long H. , Steves Claire J. , Menni Cristina , Freydin Maxim , Varsavsky Thomas , Sudre Carole H. , Cardoso M. Jorge , Ourselin Sebastien , Wolf Jonathan , Spector Tim D. , Chan Andrew T. ,   COPE Consortium, Chan Andrew T. , Drew David A. , Nguyen Long H. , Joshi Amit D. , Guo Chuan-Guo , Ma Wenjie , Lo Chun-Han , Mehta Raaj S. , Kwon Sohee , Sikavi Daniel R. , Magicheva-Gupta Marina V. , Fatehi Zahra S. , Flynn Jacqueline J. , Leonardo Brianna M. , Albert Christine M. , Andreotti Gabriella , Beane-Freeman Laura E. , Balasubramanian Bijal A. , Brownstein John S. , Bruinsma Fiona , Cowan Annie N. , Deka Anusila , Ernst Michael E. , Figueiredo Jane C. , Franks Paul W. , Gardner Christopher D. , Ghobrial Irene M. , Haiman Christopher A. , Hall Janet E. , Deming-Halverson Sandra L. , Kirpach Brenda , Lacey James V. , Le Marchand Loic , Marinac Catherine R. , Martinez Maria Elena , Milne Roger L. , Murray Anne M. , Nash Denis , Palmer Julie R. , Patel Alpa V. , Rosenberg Lynn , Sandler Dale P. , Sharma Shreela V. , Schurman Shepherd H. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Chavarro Jorge E. , Eliassen A. Heather , Hart Jamie E. , Kang Jae Hee , Koenen Karestan C. , Kubzansky Laura D. , Mucci Lorelei A. , Ourselin Sebastien , Rich-Edwards Janet W. , Song Mingyang , Stampfer Meir J. , Steves Claire J. , Willett Walter C. , Wolf Jonathan , Spector Tim
Published: May 2020

Mobile symptom tracking

The rapidity with which severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spreads through a population is defying attempts at tracking it, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction testing so far has been too slow for real-time epidemiology. Taking advantage of existing longitudinal health care and research patient cohorts, Drew
et al.
pushed software updates to participants to encourage reporting of potential coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms. The authors recruited about 2 million users (including health care workers) to the COVID Symptom Study (previously known as the COVID Symptom Tracker) from across the United Kingdom and the United States. The prevalence of combinations of symptoms (three or more), including fatigue and cough, followed by diarrhea, fever, and/or anosmia, was predictive of a positive test verification for SARS-CoV-2. As exemplified by data from Wales, United Kingdom, mathematical modeling predicted geographical hotspots of incidence 5 to 7 days in advance of official public health reports.

Science
, this issue p.
1362
p53 is regulated by aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells by the CtBP family of NADH-dependent transcriptional regulators
Authors: Birts Charles N. , Banerjee Arindam , Darley Matthew , Dunlop Charles R. , Nelson Sarah , Nijjar Sharandip K. , Parker Rachel , West Jonathan , Tavassoli Ali , Rose-Zerilli Matthew J. J. , Blaydes Jeremy P.
Published: May 2020

Increased glycolytic stress in cancer cells stimulates p53 production to maintain metabolic homeostasis.
Inhibition of Hsp90 in the spinal cord enhances the antinociceptive effects of morphine by activating an ERK-RSK pathway
Authors: Duron David I. , Lei Wei , Barker Natalie K. , Stine Carrie , Mishra Sanket , Blagg Brian S. J. , Langlais Paul R. , Streicher John M.
Published: May 2020

Spinal delivery of Hsp90 inhibitors may make opioids safer and more effective.
Comparative Genomic Analysis of Third-Generation-Cephalosporin-Resistant Escherichia coli Harboring the
bla
CMY-2
-Positive IncI1 Group, IncB/O/K/Z, and IncC Plasmids Isolated from Healthy Broilers in Japan
Authors: Shirakawa Takahiro , Sekizuka Tsuyoshi , Kuroda Makoto , Suzuki Satowa , Ozawa Manao , Abo Hitoshi , Furuya Yukari , Akama Ryoko , Matsuda Mari , Shimazaki Yoko , Kijima Mayumi , Kawanishi Michiko
Published: May 2020

The off-label use of third-generation cephalosporins (3GCs) during
in ovo
vaccination or vaccination of newly hatched chicks has been a common practice worldwide. CMY-2-producing
Escherichia coli
strains have been disseminated in broiler chicken production. The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiological linkage of
bla
CMY-2
-positive plasmids among broilers both within and outside Japan, because the grandparent stock and parent stock were imported into Japan.
Transferrin Binding Protein B and Transferrin Binding Protein A2 Expand the Transferrin Recognition Range of
Histophilus somni
Authors: Pogoutse Anastassia K. , Moraes Trevor F.
Published: May 2020

Host-restricted pathogens infect a single host species or a narrow range of host species.
Histophilus somni
, a pathogen that incurs severe economic losses for the cattle industry, infects cattle, sheep, and goats but not other mammals. The transferrin binding proteins, TbpA and TbpB, are thought to be a key iron acquisition system in
H. somni
; however, despite their importance,
H. somni
TbpA and TbpB were previously shown to be cattle transferrin specific. In our study, we find that
H. somni
TbpB and another little-studied Tbp, TbpA2, bind sheep and goat transferrins, as well as bovine transferrin. Our results suggest that TbpB and TbpA2 may allow for host range expansion and provide a mechanism for how host specificity in Tbp-encoding pathogens can be altered.
Extracellular Vesicles from Aspergillus flavus Induce M1 Polarization
In Vitro
Authors: Brauer Verônica S. , Pessoni André M. , Bitencourt Tamires A. , de Paula Renato G. , de Oliveira Rocha Liliana , Goldman Gustavo H. , Almeida Fausto
Published: May 2020

Immunocompromised patients are susceptible to several fungal infections. The genus
Aspergillus
can cause increased morbidity and mortality. Developing new therapies is essential to understand the fungal biology mechanisms. Fungal EVs carry important virulence factors, thus playing pivotal roles in fungal pathophysiology. No study to date has reported EV production by
Aspergillus flavus
, a fungus considered to be the second most common cause of aspergillosis and relevant food contaminator found worldwide. In this study, we produced
A. flavus
EVs and evaluated the
in vitro
immunomodulatory effects of EVs on bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and
in vivo
effects in a
Galleria mellonella
model.
Tetanus Toxin
cis
-Loop Contributes to Light-Chain Translocation
Authors: Zuverink Madison , Bluma Matthew , Barbieri Joseph T.
Published: May 2020

How protein toxins translocate their catalytic domain across a cell membrane is the least understood step in toxin action. This study utilized a reporter, β-lactamase, that was genetically fused to full-length, nontoxic tetanus toxin (βlac-TT) in discovery-based live-cell assays to study LC translocation. Directed mutagenesis identified a role for K
768
in LC translocation. K
768
was located between α15 and α16 (termed the
cis
-loop). Cellular assays showed that K
768
did not interfere with other toxin functions, including cell binding, intracellular trafficking, and pore formation. The equivalent K
768
is conserved among the clostridial neurotoxin family of proteins as a conserved structural motif. The
cis
-loop appears to contribute to LC translocation.
​Acute airway compromise and coagulopathy: a rare presentation of acquired haemophilia A
Authors: Howden William Byron , Kam Jonathan , Leith Nicholas , Singh Shashinder
Published: May 2020

Acquired haemophilia A is a rare but important diagnosis, carrying a mortality rate of 22%. Life-threatening sequalae of this diagnosis includes airway compromise, which can rapidly lead to demise of the patient if left untreated. Our case examines an 80-year-old man presenting with a supraglottic haematoma resulting from acquired haemophilia A causing airway compromise and necessitating definitive airway control. A review of current understanding and management of the disease is also ddiscussed.
Statement on methods in sport injury research from the 1st METHODS MATTER Meeting, Copenhagen, 2019
Authors: Nielsen Rasmus Oestergaard , Shrier Ian , Casals Marti , Nettel-Aguirre Albertro , Møller Merete , Bolling Caroline , Bittencourt Natália Franco Netto , Clarsen Benjamin , Wedderkopp Niels , Soligard Torbjørn , Timpka Toomas , Emery Carolyn , Bahr Roald , Jacobsson Jenny , Whiteley Rod , Dahlstrom Orjan , van Dyk Nicol , Pluim Babette M , Stamatakis Emmanuel , Palacios-Derflingher Luz , Fagerland Morten Wang , Khan Karim M , Ardern Clare L , Verhagen Evert
Published: May 2020

High quality sports injury research can facilitate sports injury prevention and treatment. There is scope to improve how our field applies best practice methods—methods matter (greatly!). The 1st METHODS MATTER Meeting, held in January 2019 in Copenhagen, Denmark, was the forum for an international group of researchers with expertise in research methods to discuss sports injury methods. We discussed important epidemiological and statistical topics within the field of sports injury research. With this opinion document, we provide the main take-home messages that emerged from the meeting.
Correcting imbalance of sex hormones by a phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor improves copulatory dysfunction in male rats with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Itoga Akiko , Zha Xinmin , Nagase Keiko , Aoki Yoshitaka , Ito Hideaki , Yokoyama Osamu
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction is a common complication in men with type 2 diabetes and is often refractory to treatment. This study investigated the long-term influence of the phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor (PDE5I) tadalafil on the level of sex hormones and sexual function in male Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats as an animal model of spontaneous type 2 diabetes.

Research design and methods

We treated 36-week-old male OLETF and non-diabetic Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) rats with oral tadalafil (100 µg/kg/day) for 12 weeks; sham groups received vehicle for 12 weeks. Before and after tadalafil treatment, serum levels of total and free testosterone, estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone and proinflammatory cytokines were compared among four treatment groups. Copulatory function was examined by matching each rat to an estrous female. After completion of the experiment, total fat mass in the abdomen was measured.

Results

Testosterone levels were significantly lower in OLETF versus LETO rats at 36 weeks. After 12 weeks of tadalafil treatment, levels of testosterone were significantly increased both in OLETF-tadalafil and LETO-tadalafil groups versus vehicle groups. Tadalafil decreased estradiol levels both in OLETF and LETO rats. Furthermore, tadalafil increased serum LH levels with a reduction of proinflammatory cytokines. Total fat mass was significantly lower in the OLETF-tadalafil group versus the OLETF-vehicle group. A significant suppression of copulatory behavior, that is, elongation of intromission latency was found in OLETF rats. However, tadalafil treatment for 12 weeks shortened the intromission latency.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that tadalafil treatment might improve copulatory disorder in the type 2 diabetic model via improvement of an imbalance in sex hormones and an increase in LH levels.
SIRT1-dependent mechanisms and effects of resveratrol for amelioration of muscle wasting in NASH mice
Authors: Liu Chih-Wei , Huang Chia-Chang , Hsu Chien-Fu , Li Tzu-Hao , Tsai Yu-Lien , Lin Ming-Wei , Tsai Hung-Cheng , Huang Shiang-Fen , Yang Ying-Ying , Hsieh Yun-Cheng , Lee Tzung-Yan , Tsai Chang-Youh , Huang Yi-Hsiang , Hou Ming-Chih , Lin Han-Chieh
Published: May 2020

Background

In non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), muscle wasting was an aggravating factor for the progression of hepatic steatosis. This study explores the potential benefits of chronic treatment with resveratrol, a strong activator of SIRT1 on the muscle wasting of NASH mice.

Methods

In vivo and in vitro study, we evaluate the SIRT1-dependent mechanisms and effects of resveratrol administration for 6 weeks with high-fat-methionine and choline deficient diet-induced NASH mice and palmitate-pretreated C2C12 myoblast cells.

Results

Resveratrol treatment improved grip strength and muscle mass of limbs, increased running distance and time on exercise wheels in NASH mice. There is a negative correlation between muscular SIRT1 activity and 3-nitrotyrosine levels of NASH and NASH-resv mice. The SIRT1-dependent effect of muscle wasting was associated with the suppression of oxidative stress, upregulation of antioxidants, inhibition of protein degradation, activation of autophagy, suppression of apoptotic activity, upregulation of lipolytic genes and the reduction of fatty infiltration in limb muscles of NASH mice. In vitro, resveratrol alleviated palmitate acid-induced oxidative stress, lipid deposition, autophagy dysfunction, apoptotic signals, and subsequently reduced fusion index and myotube formation of C2C12 cells. The beneficial effects of resveratrol were abolished by EX527.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that chronic resveratrol treatment is a potential strategy for amelioration of hepatic steatosis and muscle wasting in NASH mouse model.
Diagnostic performance of a point-of-care saliva urea nitrogen dipstick to screen for kidney disease in low-resource settings where serum creatinine is unavailable
Authors: Evans Rhys D R , Hemmila Ulla , Mzinganjira Henry , Mtekateka Mwayi , Banda Enos , Sibale Naomi , Kawale Zuze , Phiri Chimota , Dreyer Gavin , Calice-Silva Viviane , Raimann Jochen G , Levin Nathan , Pecoits-Filho Roberto , Mehta Ravi , Macedo Etienne
Published: May 2020

Background

Kidney disease is prevalent in low-resource settings worldwide, but tests for its diagnosis are often unavailable. The saliva urea nitrogen (SUN) dipstick is a laboratory and electricity independent tool, which may be used for the detection of kidney disease. We investigated the feasibility and performance of its use in diagnosing kidney disease in community settings in Africa.

Methods

Adult patients at increased risk of kidney disease presenting to three community health centres, a rural district hospital and a central hospital in Malawi were recruited between October 2016 and September 2017. Patients underwent concurrent SUN and creatinine testing at enrolment, and at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months thereafter.

Results

Of 710 patients who presented at increased risk of kidney disease, 655 (92.3%) underwent SUN testing at enrolment, and were included (aged 38 (29-52) years, 367 (56%) female and 333 (50.8%) with HIV). Kidney disease was present in 482 (73.6%) patients and 1479 SUN measurements were made overall. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) correlated with SUN (r=−0.39; p<0.0001). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve was 0.61 for presenting SUN to detect acute or chronic kidney disease, and 0.87 to detect severe (eGFR <15 mL/min/1.73 m2) kidney disease (p<0.0001; sensitivity 82.3%, specificity 81.8%, test accuracy 81.8%). In-hospital mortality was greater if enrolment SUN was elevated (>test pad #1) compared with patients with non-elevated SUN (p<0.0001; HR 3.3 (95% CI 1.7 to 6.1).

Conclusions

SUN, measured by dipstick, is feasible and may be used to screen for kidney disease in low resource settings where creatinine tests are unavailable.
Specialist infantry and defence engagement
Authors: Herron Jonathan Blair Thomas , Heil K M , Reid D
Published: May 2020

In 2015, the UK government published the National Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) 2015, which laid out their vision for the future roles and structure of the UK Armed Forces. SDSR 2015 envisaged making broader use of the Armed Forces to support missions other than warfighting. One element of this would be to increase the scale and scope of defence engagement (DE) activities that the UK conducts overseas. DE activities traditionally involve the use of personnel and assets to help prevent conflict, build stability and gain influence with partner nations as part of a short-term training teams. This paper aimed to give an overview of the Specialist Infantry Group and its role in UK DE. It will explore the reasons why the SDSR 2015 recommended their formation as well as an insight into future tasks.
Systematic literature review of the burden and outcomes of infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms in Europe: the ABOUT-MDRO project protocol
Authors: Anaya-Baz Blanca , Maldonado Natalia , Palacios-Baena Zaira R , Palomo Virginia , Pezzani Maria Diletta , Chiesi Sheila , Razzaboni Elisa , Compri Monica , Tacconelli Evelina , Rodriguez-Baño Jesús
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Despite the increasing importance of infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), there is a lack of comprehensive information about the burden of disease and outcomes of key infections caused by these pathogens. The aim of the ABOUT-MDRO (A systematic review on the burden and outcomes of infections due to multidrug resitant organisms) project is to provide estimations of the burden of some key infections and their outcomes caused by the target MDROs.

Methods and analysis

A systematic literature search will be performed using MEDLINE/PubMed, Elsevier’s SCOPUS, Cochrane library, Clinical trials and Web of Science, as well as the Surveillance Systems from Public Health Institutions and Scientific Societies for Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare-Associated Infections in Europe database of European surveillance systems, for data on prevalence/incidence, mortality and length of stay of target infections in hospitalised patients (including ventilator-associated pneumonia, hospital-acquired pneumonia, complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections and bloodstream infections) and in specific populations (children, hospital wards, neutropenic patients) caused by cephalosporin-resistant or carbapenem-resistantEnterobacteriaceae, carbapenem-resistantPseudomonas aeruginosaandAcinetobacterspp., methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus, and vancomycin-resistantEnterococcusspp. The information retrieved will be tabulated and pooled estimates and 95% CIs calculated of rates and outcomes, using random effects models. Relationships between rates and outcomes in randomised control trials and epidemiological studies, and data of proportions and incidence/prevalence rates will also be analysed. The information collected in this study will be useful for identifying gaps in our knowledge in terms of incidence/prevalence and clinical outcomes of infections caused by MDROs, and for informing priorities in infection control and the research and design of appropriate studies.

Ethics and dissemination

This study will be based on published data so we did not require ethical approval. Formal consent is not required. The results of this review will be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses statement. Data will be presented at international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

Registration details

PROSPERO (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/) (CRD42019124185).
Linkage of voluntary medical male circumcision clients to adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) services through Smart-LyncAges project in Zimbabwe: a cohort study
Authors: Makoni Talent M , Thekkur Pruthu , Takarinda Kudakwashe C , Xaba Sinokuthemba , Ncube Getrude , Zwangobani Nonhlahla , Samuelson Julia , Mangombe Aveneni , Mabaya Simbarashe , Tapera Talent , Matambo Ronald , Ameyan Wole , Mugurungi Owen
Published: May 2020

Objectives

WHO recommended strengthening the linkages between various HIV prevention programmes and adolescent sexual reproductive health (ASRH) services. The Smart-LyncAges project piloted in Bulawayo city and Mt Darwin district of Zimbabwe established a referral system to link the voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) clients to ASRH services provided at youth centres. Since its inception in 2016, there has been no assessment of the performance of the referral system. Thus, we aimed to assess the proportion of young (10–24 years) VMMC clients getting ‘successfully linked’ to ASRH services and factors associated with ‘not being linked’.

Design

This was a cohort study using routinely collected secondary data.

Setting

All three VMMC clinics of Mt Darwin district and Bulawayo province.

Primary outcome measures

The proportion of ‘successfully linked’ was summarised as the percentage with a 95% CI. Adjusted relative risks (aRR) using a generalised linear model was calculated as a measure of association between client characteristics and ‘not being linked’.

Results

Of 1773 young people registered for VMMC services, 1478 (83%) were referred for ASRH services as they had not registered for ASRH previously. Of those referred for ASRH services, the mean (SD) age of study participants was 13.7 (4.3) years and 427 (28.9%) were out of school. Of the referred, 463 (31.3%, 95% CI: 30.0 to 33.8) were ‘successfully linked’ to ASRH services and the median (IQR) duration for linkage was 6 (0–56) days. On adjusted analysis, receiving referral from Bulawayo circumcision clinic (aRR: 1.5 (95% CI: 1.3 to 1.7)) and undergoing circumcision at outreach sites (aRR: 1.2 (95% CI: 1.1 to 1.3)) were associated with ‘not being linked’ to ASRH services.

Conclusion

Linkage to ASRH services from VMMC is feasible as one-third VMMC clients were successfully linked. However, there is need to explore reasons for not accessing ASRH services and take corrective actions to improve the linkages.
Prevalence of secondary care multimorbidity in mid-life and its association with premature mortality in a large longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Johnston Marjorie C , Black Corrinda , Mercer Stewart W , Prescott Gordon J , Crilly Michael A
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Multimorbidity is the coexistence of two or more health conditions in an individual. Multimorbidity in younger adults is increasingly recognised as an important challenge. We assessed the prevalence of secondary care multimorbidity in mid-life and its association with premature mortality over 15 years of follow-up, in the Aberdeen Children of the 1950s (ACONF) cohort.

Method

A prospective cohort study using linked electronic health and mortality records. Scottish ACONF participants were linked to their Scottish Morbidity Record hospital episode data and mortality records. Multimorbidity was defined as two or more conditions and was assessed using healthcare records in 2001 when the participants were aged between 45 and 51 years. The association between multimorbidity and mortality over 15 years of follow-up (to ages 60–66 years) was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression. There was also adjustment for key covariates: age, gender, social class at birth, intelligence at age 7, secondary school type, educational attainment, alcohol, smoking, body mass index and adult social class.

Results

Of 9625 participants (51% males), 3% had multimorbidity. The death rate per 1000 person-years was 28.4 (95% CI 23.2 to 34.8) in those with multimorbidity and 5.7 (95% CI 5.3 to 6.1) in those without. In relation to the reference group of those with no multimorbidity, those with multimorbidity had a mortality HR of 4.5 (95% CI 3.4 to 6.0) over 15 years and this association remained when fully adjusted for the covariates (HR 2.5 (95% CI 1.5 to 4.0)).

Conclusion

Multimorbidity prevalence was 3% in mid-life when measured using secondary care administrative data. Multimorbidity in mid-life was associated with premature mortality.