bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Cypridina Luciferase Genes in the Genome of Individual Ostracods, Vargula hilgendorfii (Cypridina hilgendorfii)
Authors: Inouye Satoshi
Published: June 2021

The genomic structure of the Cypridina luciferase gene in Vargula hilgendorfii (formerly Cypridina hilgendorfii) was determined with three λ phage clones (λ34, λ45, and λ61). The luciferase genes in clones λ34 and λ61 consisted of 13 exons and 12 introns, and clone λ45 only contained exons 1–5. The splicing sites of the luciferase genes in λ34 and λ61 were conserved completely with the consensus sequence. The translated luciferases had 555 amino acid residues, which were over 98.6% identical to those of cDNA clones as previously reported. In contrast, each intron in clones λ34, λ45, and λ61 varied significantly in length. To explain the variation of intron length among the three V. hilgendorfii luciferase genes, genomic DNA was isolated from a single V. hilgendorfii specimen, and the regions from exon 1–3 of the luciferase gene were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR products with various lengths were detected and were confirmed as the luciferase gene fragments by Southern blot analysis. Furthermore, DNA sequence analysis indicated that at least seven luciferase gene groups might be present in the genome of a single specimen. Thus, multiple Cypridina luciferase genes exist in the genome of a single V. hilgendorfii specimen.
Evolutionary trade‐offs at the Arabidopsis WRR4A resistance locus underpin alternate Albugo candida race recognition specificities
Authors: Castel Baptiste , Fairhead Sebastian , Furzer Oliver J. , Redkar Amey , Wang Shanshan , Cevik Volkan , Holub Eric B. , Jones Jonathan D. G.
Published: June 2021

The oomycete Albugo candida causes white rust of Brassicaceae, including vegetable and oilseed crops, and wild relatives such as Arabidopsis thaliana. Novel White Rust Resistance (WRR) genes from Arabidopsis enable new insights into plant/parasite co‐evolution. WRR4A from Arabidopsis accession Columbia (Col‐0) provides resistance to many but not all white rust races, and encodes a nucleotide‐binding, leucine‐rich repeat immune receptor. Col‐0 WRR4A resistance is broken by AcEx1, an isolate of A. candida. We identified an allele of WRR4A in Arabidopsis accession Øystese‐0 (Oy‐0) and other accessions that confers full resistance to AcEx1. WRR4AOy‐0 carries a C‐terminal extension required for recognition of AcEx1, but reduces recognition of several effectors recognized by the WRR4ACol‐0 allele. WRR4AOy‐0 confers full resistance to AcEx1 when expressed in the oilseed crop Camelina sativa.
Limitations of current practices in detection of bacterially contaminated blood products associated with suspected septic transfusion reactions
Authors: Martin Isabella W. , Cohn Claudia S. , Delaney Meghan , Fontaine Magali J. , Shih Andrew W. , Dunbar Nancy M. ,   the SCARED Study Investigators on behalf of the Biomedical Excellence for Safer Transfusion (BEST) Collaborative
Published: June 2021

Background

In the setting of suspected septic transfusion reactions, bacterial culture of both the transfused patient and the residual blood component is recommended. Primary bacterial contamination can occur at the time of component collection. Clinically insignificant “secondary contamination” can occur during post‐transfusion component discard, retrieval for culture, or manipulation of the bag at the time of culture sampling.

Study design and methods

This retrospective, multi‐center study analyzes positive residual component culture results and companion patient blood cultures from 15 hospitals, 1 blood center, and all cultured transfusion reactions within the province of Quebec, Canada, over a 5‐year period. Imputability was assigned as “definite” (concordant growth), “possible” (discordant growth or lack of growth in patient culture), or “unable to assess” (patient not cultured).

Results

There were 373 positive component cultures from 360 unique transfusion reactions, with 276 (76.7%) companion patient blood cultures performed, of which 10 (2.8%) yielded the pathogen detected in the positive component. Of these 10 definite pathogens, 7 (2 Staphylococcus aureus, 3 other staphylococci, and 1 Streptococcus pyogenes and 1 Bacillus sp.) were associated with platelet and 3 (Aeromonas veronii, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Enterococcus faecalis) with RBC transfusions. RBC and plasma components comprised 70% of positive component cultures.

Discussion

The process of performing residual component culture is vulnerable to secondary contamination. The significance of microorganisms recovered from component culture cannot be interpreted in isolation. In the context of low prevalence of primary contamination of blood components, the positive predictive value of a positive component culture result is very low.
A clinical retrospective study of Caparinia tripilis (Psoroptidae) mite dermatitis in pet African pygmy hedgehogs (Ateletrix albiventris) in southern Italy
Authors: d’Ovidio Dario , Santoro Mario , Santoro Domenico
Published: June 2021

Background

Caparinia tripilis is a common ectoparasitic mite affecting African pygmy hedgehogs, and is associated with pruritus and self‐trauma. There have been no published surveys on the prevalence of such mites in pet African pygmy hedgehogs in Italy.

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence and clinical signs of C. tripilis infestation in African pygmy hedgehogs.

Animals

Clinical records of hedgehogs examined between December 2017 and December 2020 were searched retrospectively.

Methods and materials

The prevalence of C. tripilis infestation was evaluated and exposure variables were assessed using stepwise conditional logistic regression and odds ratios (OR) were calculated.

Results

The overall prevalence of C. tripilis was 39.5% (81 of 205) in client‐owned and 81.5% (66 of 81) in pet shop‐housed affected hedgehogs. Fifty‐two hedgehogs (64.2%) showed clinical signs of pruritus, scales, erythema, spine loss, crusting, alopecia and lichenification, while 29 infested hedgehogs (35.8%) were asymptomatic. The head was the most frequently affected area in 30 of 81 (37%) animals. In a multivariable analysis, affected hedgehogs were significantly younger [OR 0.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.1–0.73; P = 0.0097] and more likely to be from a pet shop (OR 2.1, 95%CI 1–4.4; P = 0.04) than unaffected hedgehogs.

Conclusions and clinical importance

The results of this study indicate a prevalence rate of C. tripilis infestation that is consistent with trends observed in other studies. African pygmy hedgehogs, especially younger animals and those originating from a pet shop, should always be evaluated for C. tripilis.
Characterisation of the serum cytokine profile in feline atopic skin syndrome
Authors: Vargo Cheryl , Gogal Robert , Barber James , Austel Michaela , Banovic Frane
Published: June 2021

Background

Feline atopic skin syndrome (FASS) is a pruritic and inflammatory skin disease commonly encountered in cats. Three previous reports evaluated cytokine immune activation in cats diagnosed with feline allergic dermatitis. However, no significant upregulations were observed in allergic cats compared to healthy controls.

Hypothesis/Objective

To evaluate differences in the serum cytokine profile of cats diagnosed with FASS compared to healthy cats, and correlate serum markers with the extent of FASS skin disease using clinical scoring systems.

Animals

Thirteen client‐owned FASS cats and 12 healthy control cats.

Methods and materials

Thirteen cytokine and chemokines from the serum of FASS cats and healthy controls were analysed using a commercially available feline‐specific multiplex assay.

Results

Patients with FASS had a significant increase in serum concentrations of interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ), interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐13 and IL‐18. In addition, cytokine/chemokines involved in inflammation and chemotaxis [IL‐8, C‐C Motif Chemokine Ligand (CCL)5, CCL2 and CXCL12], as well as growth factors, stem cell factor and Fms‐related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (Flt3L), also were significantly elevated. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.64) between the serum levels of Flt3L and Scoring Feline Allergic Dermatitis (SCORFAD) score was observed.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the activation of a broad array of immune secretory cytokines in the serum of cats with FASS, which are largely associated with a mixed Th1 and Th2 inflammatory response along with specific growth factors. Further larger‐sample studies are needed to assess the modulation of serum biomarkers in FASS by pharmacological/therapeutic interventions.
Standardized capillary refill time and relation to clinical parameters in hospitalized dogs
Authors: Chalifoux Nolan V. , Spielvogel Carl F. , Stefanovski Darko , Silverstein Deborah C.
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess the relationship between various physical and clinicopathologic parameters and the capillary refill time (CRT) using a standard method; to evaluate the influence of emergency room (ER) versus ICU hospital location on CRT; and to identify latent subgroups among the CRT distribution.

Design

Prospective, observational study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Client‐owned dogs in the ER (n = 40) and ICU (n = 71).

Interventions

The CRT was defined as the duration required for the oral mucosa of the upper lip to return to its original color after blanching for 4 seconds. The CRT was recorded in seconds to the 10ths place by a single observer using an automated recording device.

Measurements and Main Results

Median CRT for all dogs was 1.1 seconds (ER, 1.2 s; ICU, 1.1 s; P = 1.000). The CRT was significantly associated with rectal temperature (P = 0.004), systolic blood pressure (P = 0.028), body weight (P = 0.031), mucous membrane color (P = 0.007), skin turgor (P = 0.039), and acute patient physiologic and laboratory evaluation mentation score (P = 0.019) for all dogs. The CRT was related to a greater number of variables in the ER than in the ICU patient population. In general, the total population of dogs had CRTs belonging to 1 of 2 groups: either ≤1.2 or ≥1.7 seconds. A statistically significant association was found between body weight CRT ≥1.3 seconds (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

A CRT following blanching for 4 seconds may provide insight into the hydration status and hemodynamic stability of canine patients. Further research into its clinical application is warranted.
Correlation of sample‐to‐cut‐off ratio of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibody chemiluminescent assay with neutralization activity: a prospective multi‐centric study in India
Authors: Tiwari Aseem K. , Negi Gita , Jaiswal Ram Mohan , Aggarwal Geet , Yadav Neeti , Kumar Virendra , Kulathu Krishnan
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

There are limited published data on association of results from commercial serological anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibody CLIA (chemiluminescent immunoassay) assays with neutralizing antibodies. This study was undertaken with an objective to correlate sample‐to‐cut‐off (S/Co) ratio of CLIA antibody tests with inhibition activity, which may then serve as a valuable guide for labelling plasma as COVID convalescent plasma (CCP) for therapy and assessing vaccine efficacy.

Materials and Methods

A total of 139 donor serum samples who were previously RT‐PCR positive and had recovered completely from COVID‐19 at least 28 days prior to collection of samples were recruited at three sites. The samples were analysed for S/Co ratio and per cent inhibition activity with VITROS SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG chemiluminescent assay and GenScript cPass SARS‐CoV‐2 Surrogate Virus Neutralization Test (sVNT) kit, respectively. Linear regression equation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to check the proposed model of comparing S/Co with per cent inhibition.

Results

The results indicate very good correlation between the S/Co ratio of the chemiluminescent IgG assay and the neutralization activity depicted by per cent inhibition on sVNT assay. S/Co ratio of 4·04 (low‐titre) and 8·19 (high‐titre) correlated with 30% and 68% inhibition, respectively.

Conclusion

Chemiluminescent SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG assay can be used as a semi‐quantitative test, with a cut‐off of >8·19S/Co ratio for selecting donors for convalescent plasma therapy and assessing efficacy of vaccination.
A Transfer Entropy Based Approach for Fault Isolation in Industrial Robots
Authors: Vallachira Sathish , Norrlof Mikael , Orkisz Michal , Butail Sachit
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we cast the problem of fault isolation in industrial robots as that of causal analysis within coupled dynamical processes and evaluate the related efficacy of the information-theoretic approach of transfer entropy. To create a realistic and exhaustive dataset, we simulate wear-induced failure by increasing friction coefficient on select axes within an in-house robotic simulation tool that incorporates an elastic gearbox model. The source axis of failure is identified as one which has the highest net transfer entropy across all pairs of axes. In an exhaustive simulation study, we vary the friction successively in each axis across three common industrial tasks: pick and place, spot welding, and arc welding. Our results show that transfer entropy-based approach is able to detect the axis of failure more than 80% of the time when the friction coefficient is 5% above the nominal value and always when friction coefficient is 10% above the nominal value. The transfer entropy approach is more than twice as accurate as cross-correlation, a classical time series analysis used to identify directional dependence among processes.
Experimental Study on Combustion and Emission Characteristics of Gasoline Compression Ignition Engines Under Cooperative Control of Operating Parameters
Authors: Wang Yuke , Wu Changkun , Pan Mingzhang , Pan Jiaying
Published: June 2021

This study investigated the effects of cooperative-control of the start of injection (SOI), excess air ratio (λ), internal exhaust gas recirculation (I-EGR), and intake air temperature (IAT) on the combustion and emission characteristics of gasoline compression ignition (GCI) engines, especially regards to the combustion stability and knock characteristics. And optimizing the GCI engine combustion and emissions through the cooperative control of multiple parameters is the innovation of this research. The results showed that advancing the SOI and increasing the I-EGR ratio can significantly expand the low-load limit, but the heating effect of 20% I-EGR only worked when the SOI was earlier. An appropriate increase of λ could increase the maximum brake thermal efficiency (BTE) to 40.06%, but resulted in high-knock probability and high NOx emissions. Rising the IAT was more effective than advancing the SOI in improving combustion fluctuations, but the knock probability and knock intensity were more sensitive to the early SOI. When the SOI varied from 26 °CA BTDC to 30 °CA BTDC, λ was 1–1.5, the I-EGR ratio was 5%–20%, and the IAT was 40–50 °C; the GCI engine can obtain the balance among high thermal efficiency, high combustion stability, low knock probability, and low emissions.
Critical Review of Emulsion Stability and Characterization Techniques in Oil Processing
Authors: Angardi Vahideh , Ettehadi Ali , Yücel Özgün
Published: June 2021

Effective separation of water and oil dispersions is considered a critical step in the determination of technical and economic success in the petroleum industry over the years. Moreover, a deeper understanding of the emulsification process and different affected parameters is essential for cost-effective oil production, transportation, and downstream processing. Numerous studies conducted on the concept of dispersion characterization indicate the importance of this concept, which deserves attention by the scientific community. Therefore, a comprehensive review study with critical analysis on significant concepts will help readers follow them easily. This study is a comprehensive review of the concept of dispersion characterization and conducted studies recently published. The main purposes of this review are to: (1) highlight flaws, (2) outline gaps and weaknesses, (3) address conflicts, (4) prevent duplication of effort, and (5) list factors affecting dispersion. It was found that the separation efficiency and stability of dispersions are affected by different chemical and physical factors. Factors affecting the stability of the emulsions have been studied in detail and will help to look for the right action to ensure stable emulsions. In addition, methods of ensuring stability, especially coalescence are highlighted, and coalescence mathematical explanations of phenomena are presented.
The Construction of Superhydrophobic Structure on Stainless Steel by an Optimized Chemical Etching Technics
Authors: Hu Huixiang , Hong Xiaozhe , Gao Yan
Published: June 2021

Austenitic stainless steel is a widely used engineering material in industry and daily life due to its excellent corrosion resistance. The construction of superhydrophobic structure on stainless steel can endow it with special wetting properties and open up new paths for its application. In this study, stainless steel plate was first etched in a hydrofluoric acid solution with a low concentration of 40 wt%, and a micro-nano structure was obtained in a short time of 2 h. The surface was then modified in myristic acid to achieve superhydrophobicity. The superhydrophobic structure on the steel showed a high contact angle (CA) of 166 deg, excellent self-cleaning performance, and greatly improved corrosion resistance compared with the original counterpart. Meanwhile, its wear durability was evaluated by sandpaper abrasion test and the superhydrophobic structure maintained its property after moving 125 cm on the 1000-grit sandpaper under a pressure of 3.2 kPa.
An Analytical Solution for the Initiation and Early Progression of Fretting Wear in Spherical Contacts
Authors: Yang Huaidong , Green Itzhak
Published: June 2021

This article derives analytical solutions to calculate the wear volume at the initiation of fretting motion and its early progression over the first few oscillation cycles. The Archard-based model considers a deformable hemisphere that is contact with a deformable flat block. The material pairs investigated are special alloys, the Inconel 617/Incoloy 800H, and Inconel 617/Inconel 617. The analytical study begins with a unidirectional frictional sliding contact, where the local interfacial sliding distance and the nominal sliding distance at the initiation of gross slip are derived. The obtained analytical expressions for unidirectional sliding are then used to derive the corresponding wear volume for the initiation and early progression of gross slip and the wear volume for a general fretting cycle under elastic conditions. These analytical derivations are all verified by the finite element analysis (FEA). The FEA method and the analytical solutions render virtually identical results for both similar and dissimilar material pairs. The effects of plasticity on the wear volume under elastic–plastic conditions are also investigated. It is found that the fretting wear volumes obtained from the FEA simulations, which include plasticity, are close to those obtained from the analytical expressions for purely elastic regimes. All the results are presented in normalized forms, which can be easily generalized and applied to three-dimensional fretting wear of other material pairs.
Melting and Ejecta Produced by High Velocity Microparticle Impacts of Steel on Tin
Authors: Lienhard Jasper , Veysset David , Nelson Keith A. , Schuh Christopher A.
Published: June 2021

At sufficiently high velocities, a microparticle impacting a metal substrate can cause ejection of material from the substrate and impact-induced melting, both of which can result in erosion. Here, we directly image the impact of individual hard steel microparticles on soft tin substrates, at controlled impact velocities in the range of ∼100 to 1000 m/s. By using scanning electron and laser scanning confocal microscopy, we characterize the surface morphology, depth, and volume of each impact crater. We observe a gradual onset of impact-induced melting in the craters, as well as the production of increasing amounts of ejecta from the target metal. By comparing measurements of impact and rebound velocity to an elastic-plastic model, we observe that at a high enough impact velocity, melting and ejection begin to consume additional kinetic energy beyond that expected by plastic deformation of the target material alone. By calculating the excess energy dissipation using this elastic-plastic model, we show that although this divergent behavior is associated with the onset of melting, the majority of the ejected volume must be solid rather than liquid.
Hybrid Reduction Techniques With Covariate Shift Optimization in High-Dimensional Track Geometry
Authors: Balogun Ibrahim , Attoh-Okine Nii
Published: June 2021

In discussions of track geometry, track safety takes precedence over other requirements because its shortfall often leads to unrecoverable loss. Track geometry is unanimously positioned as the index for safety evaluation—corrective or predictive—to predict the rightful maintenance regime based on track conditions. A recent study has shown that track defect probability thresholds can best be explored using a hybrid index. Hence, a dimension reduction technique that combines both safety components and geometry quality is needed. It is observed that dimensional space representation of track parameters without prior covariate shift evaluation could affect the overall distribution as the underlying discrepancies could pose a problem for the accuracy of the prediction. In this study, the authors applied a covariate shift framework to track geometry parameters before applying the dimension reduction techniques. While both principal component analysis (PCA) and t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (TSNE) are viable techniques that express the probability distribution of parameters based on correlation in their embedded space and inclination to maximize the variance, shift distribution evaluation should be considered. In conclusion, we demonstrate that our framework can detect and evaluate a covariate shift likelihood in a high-dimensional track geometry defect problem.
Discrete Cosserat Method for Soft Manipulators Workspace Estimation: An Optimization-Based Approach
Authors: Walid Amehri , Zheng Gang , Kruszewski Alexandre , Renda Federico
Published: June 2021

This article investigates the workspace estimation of soft manipulators. Given a configuration of such a soft robot, with the bounded actuators, the discrete Cosserat method is adopted to deduce the mathematical model of soft manipulators, based on which an optimization-based approach is proposed to estimate the workspace. Implemented to various soft manipulators’ configurations, numerical simulations are provided to highlight the feasibility of the proposed methodology.
Characterizing underwater noise during rain at the northeast Pacific continental margin
Authors: Schwock Felix , Abadi Shima
Published: June 2021

Large scale studies of underwater noise during rain are important for assessing the ocean environment and enabling remote sensing of rain rates over the open ocean. In this study, approximately 3.5 yrs of acoustical and meteorological data recorded at the northeast Pacific continental margin are evaluated. The acoustic data are recorded at a sampling rate of 64 kHz and depths of 81 and 581 m at the continental shelf and slope, respectively. Rain rates and wind speeds are provided by surface buoys located in the vicinity of each hydrophone. Average power spectra have been computed for different rain rates and wind speeds, and linear and nonlinear regression have been performed. The main findings are (1) the linear regression slopes highly depends on the frequency range, rain rate, wind speed, and measurement depth; (2) noise levels during rain between 200 Hz and 10 kHz significantly increase with increasing wind speed; and (3) the highest correlation between the spectral level and rain rate occurs at 13 kHz, thus, coinciding with the spectral peak due to small raindrops. The results of this study indicate that previously proposed algorithms for estimating rain rates from acoustic data are not universally applicable but rather have to be adapted for different locations.
Implementation of an App-Based Blended Mindfulness Intervention in a Bundesliga Youth Academy Targeting Goalkeepers: A Case Study
Authors: Kittler Christoph , Stenzel Lukas , Jekauc Darko , Stoll Oliver
Published: June 2021

Integrating extensive sport psychological interventions into the daily routine of young football players poses a problem. This case study aimed to describe the implementation of an app-based blended mindfulness intervention in a German Bundesliga youth academy to improve goalkeepers’ (n = 6) attention. A mindfulness app was combined with regular group workshops. The study included an outcome evaluation based on pre- and postintervention assessments of attention performance and process evaluation based on recorded training time and collected qualitative data. The results showed an improvement in the players’ Frankfurt Attention Inventory-2Lscores andKscores. The training time with the app was low (M = 30.51 min), but high (M = 200.00 min) without the app. To implement an app-based intervention successfully, the results imply that players need more assistance with the app, and time management and informal training should be incorporated into sport-specific exercises.
Comparison of Disc Diffusion, Etest, and a Modified CLSI Broth Microdilution Method for
In Vitro
Susceptibility Testing of Itraconazole, Posaconazole, and Voriconazole against
Madurella mycetomatis
Authors: Nyuykonge Bertrand , van Amelsvoort Lukas , Eadie Kimberly , Fahal Ahmed H. , Verbon Annelies , van de Sande Wendy
Published: June 2021

For many fungal infections,
in vitro
susceptibility testing is used to predict if an isolate is resistant or susceptible to the antifungal agent used to treat the infection. For
Madurella mycetomatis
, the main causative agent of mycetoma,
in vitro
susceptibility testing currently is not performed on a routine basis. The current
in vitro
susceptibility testing method is labor-intensive, and sonication must be done to generate a hyphal inoculum.
Pharmacokinetics and Bioequivalence of Isavuconazole Administered as Isavuconazonium Sulfate Intravenous Solution via Nasogastric Tube or Orally in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Desai Amit , Helmick Melanie , Heo Nakyo , Moy Selina , Stanhope Stephen , Goldwater Ronald , Martin Nancy
Published: June 2021

For critically ill patients with invasive fungal infections, a nasogastric (NG) tube can be an alternative route for administration of isavuconazonium sulfate (ISAVUSULF). This was a randomized, open-label, 2-period, 2-sequence single-dose crossover study comparing single doses of 372 mg ISAVUSULF intravenous (i.v.) solution via NG tube (test formulation) to 372-mg ISAVUSULF capsules for oral administration (reference formulation) in healthy male and female subjects.
Nationwide Surveillance and Molecular Characterization of Critically Drug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria: Results of the Research University Network Thailand Study
Authors: Yungyuen Thitiya , Chatsuwan Tanittha , Plongla Rongpong , Kanthawong Sakawrat , Yordpratum Umaporn , Voravuthikunchai Supayang P. , Chusri Sarunyou , Saeloh Dennapa , Samosornsuk Worada , Suwantarat Nuntra , Chaiwarith Romanee , Wannalerdsakun Surat , Rotjanapan Porpon , Chantharit Prawat , Tulyaprawat Orawan , Thaipisuttikul Iyarit , Kiratisin Pattarachai
Published: June 2021

A large-scale surveillance is an important measure to monitor the regional spread of antimicrobial resistance. We prospectively studied the prevalence and molecular characteristics of clinically important Gram-negative bacilli, including
Escherichia coli
,
Klebsiella pneumoniae
,
Acinetobacter baumannii
complex (ABC), and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, from blood, respiratory tract, urine, and sterile sites at 47 hospitals across Thailand.
Exploring the Global Spread of Klebsiella grimontii Isolates Possessing
bla
VIM-1
and
mcr-9
Authors: Campos-Madueno Edgar I. , Moser Aline I. , Risch Martin , Bodmer Thomas , Endimiani Andrea
Published: June 2021

The spread of plasmid-mediated carbapenemases within
Klebsiella oxytoca
is well-documented. In contrast, data concerning the closely related species
Klebsiella grimontii
are scarce.
Management of delayed Sprengel malformation with intracanalar compressive omovertebral bone in a developing country’s neurosurgery unit
Authors: Diarra Mamadou Salia , Cisse Mohamed Elhassimi , Ndiaye Aboubacar Sidiki , Koumaré Izoudine Blaise
Published: June 2021

Sprengel deformity is a congenital abnormality done to the ascent of the scapular bone (which occurs probably between the 5th and 12th weeks of gestation). It can cause cosmetic or functional problems. The aim of our study was to describe this rare deformity, often neglected in our context, and its surgical management. We report a case of a 16-year-old boy with a Sprengel deformity associated with omovertebral intracanalar compressive bone seen on the CT scan. He reported neurological symptoms such as spastic paraparesis and walk disturbances. The bone was resected surgically and physiotherapy was set up. The outcome was good with noticeable neurological improvement of walk and balance, recovery of autonomy. Sprengel deformity is a rare pathology. Surgery must be done early and be adapted to the case.
Choroidal thickness and vessel pattern in myopic eyes with dome-shaped macula
Authors: Negrier Pierre , Couturier Aude , Gaucher David , Touhami Sara , Le Guern Guillaume , Tadayoni Ramin , Gaudric Alain , Philippakis Elise
Published: June 2021

Aim

To analyse the choroidal thickness (CT) and vessel pattern of myopic patients with dome-shaped macula (DSM) and their association with the DSM axis and serous retinal detachment (SRD).

Methods

Retrospective study. The CT and vessel pattern were assessed on optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT-angiography and ultra-wide-field photography.

Results

27 eyes of 18 subjects (mean age: 65 years) were included. Compared with the 11 eyes (41%) with horizontal DSM, the 16 eyes (59%) with vertical DSM had a shorter axial length (25.8±2 mm vs 28.3±2.5 mm; p=0.01), a higher mean macular bulge height (624.4±207 µm vs 255.4±160.3 µm; p=0.0001) and a thicker CT (183.1±91.1 µm vs 72±38.3 µm; p<0.001). Large choroidal vessels crossed the macular area in 75% of eyes with vertical DSM vs 27% of eyes with horizontal DSM (p=0.02), whereas a watershed zone framing the macula was more often seen in horizontal DSM (72% vs 25%, p=0.02). Thirteen eyes (48%) had an SRD that was not associated with the DSM axis, the mean bulge height, the CT or the vessel pattern.

Conclusion

The presence of an SRD did not correlate with the DSM axis, the CT or the vessel pattern. However, the rate of large choroidal vessels crossing the macula was higher in vertical DSM than in horizontal DSM.
Long-term evaluation of anterior lens density after implantable collamer lens V4c implantation in patients with myopia over 40 years old
Authors: Ye Yuhao , Zhao Jing , Niu Lingling , Shi Wanru , Wang Xiaoying , Zhou Xingtao
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To investigate the long-term safety and efficacy of implantable collamer lens (ICL) V4c implantation and changes in the anterior lens density (ALD) in patients with myopia ≥40 years of age.

Methods

This prospective study included 104 eyes of 52 patients >40 years of age before ICL V4c implantation. Spherical equivalent (SE), uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure, endothelial cell density, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume and anterior chamber angle preoperatively, at 1 and 3 months, and at 3 years postoperatively were recorded. Pentacam HR was used to analyse ALD changes at a depth of 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mm within a 3 mm diameter range around the pupil’s centre.

Results

The overall follow-up was uneventful at 42±7.1 months; the safety index at last follow-up was 1.26±0.35 and the efficacy index was 0.91±0.41. No eye lost the Snellen line of CDVA, 76% of the eyes had an increase in CDVA for ≥1 line and 62% had an SE within ±0.50 dioptre. The increase in ALD at 0.5, 1 and 1.5 mm was 16.52%±10.46%, 16.72%±9.85% and 17.28%±11.93%, respectively. Preoperative, 1-month and 3-month postoperative ALDs showed correlations with SE and age, and ALD at last follow-up was correlated only with age. There was no correlation between ALD and any other parameters.

Conclusion

ICL V4c shows long-term safety and efficacy in people ≥40 years of age. ALD increased in such patients, which may be related to age and SE.
Algorithm for the support of non-related (serious) adverse events in an Ebola vaccine trial in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Lemey Gwen , Larivière Ynke , Zola Trésor Matuvanga , Maketa Vivi , Matangila Junior , Mitashi Patrick , Vermeiren Peter , Thys Séverine , De Bie Jessie , Muhindo Hypolite Mavoko , Ravinetto Raffaella , Van Damme Pierre , Van Geertruyden Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2021

Implementing an Ebola vaccine trial in a remote area in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and being confronted with a dysfunctional health care system and acute unmet health needs of participants, ethical considerations were made regarding the ancillary care obligations of the sponsor and researchers. Spurred by the occurrence of non-related (serious) adverse events (NR-SAEs), the Universities of Antwerp and Kinshasa jointly developed an algorithm, accompanied by an algorithm policy. The algorithm consists of a set of consecutive questions with binary response options, leading to structured, non-arbitrary and consistent support and management for each NR-SAE. It is the result of dialogue and collaboration between the sponsor (University of Antwerp) and the principal investigator (University of Kinshasa), consultation of literature, and input of research ethics and social sciences experts. The characteristics of the project and its budgetary framework were taken into account, as well as the local socioeconomic and healthcare situation. The algorithm and related policy have been approved by the relevant ethics committee (EC), so field implementation will begin when the study activities resume in November 2021. Lessons learnt will be shared with the relevant stakeholders within and outside DRC.

If NR-SAEs are not covered by a functioning social welfare system, sponsors and researchers should develop a feasible, standardised and transparent approach to the provision of ancillary care. National legislation and contextualised requirements are therefore needed, particularly in low/middle-income countries, to guide researchers and sponsors in this process. Protocols, particularly of clinical trials conducted in areas with ‘access to care’ constraints, should include adequate ancillary care arrangements. Furthermore, it is essential that local ECs systematically require ancillary care provisions to enhance the well-being and protection of the rights of research participants. This project was funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme, European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.
What factors are associated with pre-pregnancy nutritional status? Baseline analysis of the KITE cohort: a prospective study in northern Ethiopia
Authors: Misgina Kebede Haile , Boezen H Marike , van der Beek Eline M , Mulugeta Afework , Groen Henk
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess a broad range of factors associated with pre-pregnancy nutritional status, a key step towards improving maternal and child health outcomes, in Ethiopia.

Design

A baseline data analysis of a population-based prospective study.

Setting

Kilite-Awlaelo Health and Demographic Surveillance Site, eastern zone of Tigray regional state, northern Ethiopia.

Participants

We used weight measurements of all 17 500 women of reproductive age living in the surveillance site between August 2017 and October 2017 as a baseline. Subsequently, 991 women who became pregnant were included consecutively at an average of 14.8 weeks (SD: 1.9 weeks) of gestation between February 2018 and September 2018. Eligible women were married, aged 18 years or older, with a pre-pregnancy weight measurement performed, and a gestational age ≤20 weeks at inclusion.

Outcome measures

The outcome measure was pre-pregnancy nutritional status assessed by body mass index (BMI) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Undernutrition was defined as BMI of <18.5 kg/m2 and/or MUAC of <21.0 cm. BMI was calculated using weight measured before pregnancy, and MUAC was measured at inclusion. Linear and spline regressions were used to identify factors associated with pre-pregnancy nutritional status as a continuous and Poisson regression with pre-pregnancy undernutrition as a dichotomous variable.

Results

The mean pre-pregnancy BMI and MUAC were 19.7 kg/m2 (SD: 2.0 kg/m2) and 22.6 cm (SD: 1.9 cm), respectively. Overall, the prevalence of pre-pregnancy undernutrition was 36.2% based on BMI and/or MUAC. Lower age, not being from a model household, lower values of women empowerment score, food insecurity, lower dietary diversity, regular fasting and low agrobiodiversity showed significant associations with lower BMI and/or MUAC.

Conclusion

The prevalence of pre-pregnancy undernutrition in our study population was very high. The pre-pregnancy nutritional status could be improved by advancing community awareness on dietary practice and gender equality, empowering females, raising agricultural productivity and strengthening health extension. Such changes require the coordinated efforts of concerned governmental bodies and religious leaders in the Ethiopian setting.
Awareness regarding the adverse effect of tobacco among adults in India: findings from secondary data analysis of Global Adult Tobacco Survey
Authors: Kankaria Ankita , Sahoo Soumya Swaroop , Verma Madhur
Published: June 2021

Objective

To quantify the extent of awareness regarding the harmful effects of tobacco among the users (both smoked and smokeless) and non-users in India, and explore the determinants of comprehensive knowledge among the participants of the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), India.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting and participants

The nationally representative GATS I (2009–2010) included 69 296 participants using a multistage sampling method, while GATS II (2015–2016) interviewed 74 037 respondents aged >15 years using a similar sampling method from all the states and union territories in India.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Comprehensive score were derived from nine items that explored awareness regarding the adverse effects of tobacco use among both users and non-users of tobacco in GATS II. Secondary outcome included predictors of awareness regarding adverse effects of tobacco and changes in the awareness compared with the previous round of the survey.

Results

About 60.2%, 57.5% and 66.5% of the smokers, smokeless tobacco (SLT) users and non-users were aware of the adverse effects of tobacco, respectively. The awareness depicted significant age, gender, marital status, education status, urban–rural, wealth and regional disparities (p<0.05). Intention to quit tobacco use also varied significantly with awareness. Among smokers, awareness was high in those residing in eastern India and the poorest participants. Among SLT users, awareness was more among male participants, those who were poorest and lived in western India. Among non-users, awareness was more among middle-aged, more educated, rich participants of west India. Compared with GATS I, an increase in awareness was observed in GATS II across gender, age groups, residential areas and geographical regions in India.

Conclusions

Comprehensive awareness of tobacco’s harmful effects is far from desirable among Indian users. We recommend further customised health promotion campaigns to counter the regional disparities, adopt a gender-neutral approach and target adolescents.
Effects of sport-related repetitive subconcussive head impacts on biofluid markers: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Lember Liivia-Mari , Ntikas Michail , Mondello Stefania , Wilson Lindsay , Hunter Angus , Di Virgilio Thomas , Santoro Emanuela , Ietswaart Magdalena
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Sport-related repetitive subconcussive head impacts (RSHIs) are increasingly thought to be associated with adverse long-term outcomes. However, owing to potentially subtle effects, accurate assessment of harm to the brain as a consequence of RSHI is a major challenge and an unmet need. Several studies suggest that biofluid markers can be valuable objective tools to aid the diagnosis and injury characterisation and help in medical decision-making. Still, by and large, the results have been limited, heterogeneous and inconsistent. The main aims of this scoping review are therefore (1) to systematically examine the extent, nature and quality of available evidence from studies investigating effects of RSHI on fluid biomarkers and (2) to formulate guidelines and identify gaps with the aim to inform future clinical studies and the development of research priorities.

Methods and analyses

We will use a comprehensive search strategy to retrieve all available and relevant articles in the literature. The following electronic databases will be systematically searched: MEDLINE (EBSCO host; from 1809 to 2020); Scopus (from 1788 to 2020); SPORTDiscus (from 1892 to 2020); CINAHL Complete (from 1937 to 2020); PsycINFO (from 1887 to 2020); Cochrane Library (to 2020); OpenGrey (to 2020); ClinicalTrials.gov (to 2020) and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (to 2020). We will consider primarily biomedical studies evaluating the biofluid markers following RSHI. Two independent reviewers will screen articles for inclusion using predefined eligibility criteria and extract data of retained articles. Disagreements will be resolved through consensus or arbitrated by a third reviewer if necessary. Data will be reported qualitatively given the heterogeneity of the included studies. In synthesising the evidence, we will structure results by markers, sample types, outcomes, sport and timepoints.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required. We will submit results for peer-review publication, and present at relevant conferences.
EUROlinkCAT protocol for a European population-based data linkage study investigating the survival, morbidity and education of children with congenital anomalies
Authors: Morris Joan K , Garne Ester , Loane Maria , Barisic Ingeborg , Densem James , Latos-Bieleńska Anna , Neville Amanda , Pierini Anna , Rankin Judith , Rissmann Anke , de Walle Hermien , Tan Joachim , Given Joanne Emma , Claridge Hugh
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Congenital anomalies (CAs) are a major cause of infant mortality, childhood morbidity and long-term disability. Over 130 000 children born in Europe every year will have a CA. This paper describes the EUROlinkCAT study, which is investigating the health and educational outcomes of children with CAs for the first 10 years of their lives.

Methods and analysis

EUROCAT is a European network of population-based registries for the epidemiological surveillance of CAs. EUROlinkCAT is using the EUROCAT infrastructure to support 22 EUROCAT registries in 14 countries to link their data on births with CAs to mortality, hospital discharge, prescription and educational databases. Once linked, each registry transforms their case data into a common data model (CDM) format and they are then supplied with common STATA syntax scripts to analyse their data. The resulting aggregate tables and analysis results are submitted to a central results repository (CRR) and meta-analyses are performed to summarise the results across all registries. The CRR currently contains data on 155 594 children with a CA followed up to age 10 from a population of 6 million births from 1995 to 2014.

Ethics

The CA registries have the required ethics permissions for routine surveillance and transmission of anonymised data to the EUROCAT central database. Each registry is responsible for applying for and obtaining additional ethics and other permissions required for their participation in EUROlinkCAT.

Dissemination

The CDM and associated documentation, including linkage and standardisation procedures, will be available post-EUROlinkCAT thus facilitating future local, national and European-level analyses to improve healthcare. Recommendations to improve the accuracy of routinely collected data will be made.

Findings will provide evidence to inform parents, health professionals, public health authorities and national treatment guidelines to optimise diagnosis, prevention and treatment for these children with a view to reducing health inequalities in Europe.
Association of low birth weight with cardiometabolic diseases in Swedish twins: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Li Xuerui , Yang Rongrong , Yang Wenzhe , Xu Hui , Song Ruixue , Qi Xiuying , Xu Weili
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To examine the association between low birth weight (LBW) and cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs, including heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes mellitus) in adulthood, and to explore whether genetic, early-life environmental and healthy lifestyle factors play a role in this association.

Design

A population-based twin study.

Setting

Twins from the Swedish Twin Registry who were born in 1958 or earlier participated in the Screening Across the Lifespan Twin (SALT) study for a full-scale screening during 1998–2002 and were followed up until 2014.

Participants

19 779 twin individuals in Sweden with birthweight data available (mean age: 55.45 years).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

CMDs were assessed based on self-reported medical records, medication use and records from the National Patient Registry. A lifestyle index encompassing smoking status, alcohol consumption, exercise levels and Body Mass Index was derived from the SALT survey and categorised as unfavourable, intermediate or favourable. Data were analysed using generalised estimating equation (GEE) models and conditional logistic regression models.

Results

Of all participants, 3998 (20.2%) had LBW and 5335 (27.0%) had incident CMDs (mean age at onset: 63.64±13.26 years). In GEE models, the OR of any CMD was 1.39 (95% CI 1.27 to 1.52) for LBW. In conditional logistic regression models, the LBW–CMD association became non-significant (OR=1.21, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.56). The difference in ORs from the two models was statistically significant (p<0.001). In the joint effect analysis, the multiadjusted OR of CMDs was 3.47 (95% CI 2.72 to 4.43) for participants with LBW plus an unfavourable lifestyle and 1.25 (95% CI 0.96 to 1.62) for those with LBW plus a favourable lifestyle.

Conclusion

LBW is associated with an increased risk of adult CMDs, and genetic and early-life environmental factors may account for this association. However, a favourable lifestyle profile may modify this risk.