bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer willingness to pay for healthier food products: A systematic review
Authors: Alsubhi Moosa , Blake Miranda , Nguyen Tan , Majmudar Ishani , Moodie Marj , Ananthapavan Jaithri
Published: November 2022

Food retail strategies to improve the healthiness of food and beverage options may increase purchasing of healthier options and improve diets. Consumer demand for healthier options is an important determinant of the successful implementation and maintenance of healthy food retail interventions. A systematic review of peer‐reviewed literature was undertaken to explore whether consumers are willing to pay more for healthier foods and to determine the key factors that influence willingness to pay. Fifteen studies reported the results of 26 experiments providing willingness to pay estimates for healthier food products across a range of food retail environments. Twenty three out of the 26 experiments included in this review (88.5%) found consumers would pay a 5.6% to 91.5% (mean 30.7%) price premium for healthier foods. Studies consistently found a positive willingness to pay for foods with reduced fat and wholegrains with additional fruit and vegetables, while willingness to pay for foods with reduced salt or a combination of low fat and sugar, or salt showed mixed results. Adults over 60 years, females, those living with obesity, and consumers who aim to maintain a healthy lifestyle were more likely to pay a price premium for healthier food, whereas younger consumers, consumers with healthy weight, and consumers with higher levels of education were less likely to pay higher prices. The results of this review contribute to our understanding of consumer preferences for healthier products and provide information to retailers on consumer surplus (benefits) associated with the provision of healthier food alternatives.
Targeted manipulation of grain shape genes effectively improves outcrossing rate and hybrid seed production in rice
Authors: Zhu Xinyu , Gou Yajun , Heng Yueqin , Ding Wenyan , Li Yajing , Zhou Degui , Li Xiaoqing , Liang Churong , Wu Chuanyin , Wang Haiyang , Shen Rongxin
Published: November 2022

Stigma exsertion rate (SER) of the male sterile line is a key limiting factor for hybrid seed production in rice. Although a large number of quantitative trait loci associated with SER have been reported, few genes have been molecularly cloned and functionally characterized, severely hindering the genetic improvement of SER of the male sterile line and the breeding efficiency of hybrid rice. In this study, we identified three grain shape regulatory genes, GS3, GW8 and GS9, as potential candidate genes for targeted manipulation of grain shape and SER. We show that simultaneously knocking out these three genes could effectively increase SER by increasing the ratio of spikelet length/spikelet width and length of stigma and style, without negative impacts on other agronomic traits. Cellular examination and transcriptomic analyses revealed a role of these genes in coordinated regulation of transverse and longitudinal cell division in the pistils. Moreover, we demonstrate that targeted manipulation of these grain shape genes could significantly improve the outcrossing rate in both the ZH11 (a japonica variety) and Zhu6S (an indica male sterile line) backgrounds. Our results provide new insights into the mechanisms of rice SER regulation and develop an effective strategy to improve SER and out‐crossing rate in rice, thus facilitating hybrid rice production.
In situ trace element and sulfur isotope of pyrite constraints the mineralization process of haoyaoerhudong gold deposit in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Yang Biao , Li Yi‐ke , Rong Tao , Yang Xuan , Jiang Gao‐zhen
Published: November 2022

With more than 11,000 t of gold resources, the Central Asian orogenic belt is the most significant gold deposit belt in the world. The majority of the orogenic belt's gold resources are found in a layer of carbon‐rich black shale. However, there is disagreement regarding the origin and metallogenic process of such a significant quantity of gold. The Haoyaoerhudong gold deposit is located where the northern margin of the North China Craton and the southern margin of the Central Asian orogenic belt converge. It is the most significant black shale gold deposit in the northern margin of North China Craton gold province. The pyrite that typically develops in the Haoyaoerhudong gold deposit has been categorized into five varieties through comprehensive field investigation and mineralogical research, which correspond to five metallogenic stages: Stage 1, sedimentary diagenesis; Stage 2, tectonic deformation; Stage 3, hydrothermal; Stage 4, hydrothermal transformation; Stage 5, late metallogenic. For pyrite in the previous four metallogenic stages, in situ LA‐ICP‐MS trace element analysis and pyrite sulfide isotope analyses were performed. The results suggest that: The average Au contents in the pyrite of sedimentary diagenesis stage is 0.098 ppm; the average Au contents in the pyrite of the tectonic deformation stage and hydrothermal stage, is below the detection limit mostly; the average Au contents in the pyrite of hydrothermal transformation stage is 0.12 ppm. The results indicate that only 22.4% more gold is present in hydrothermal transformation stage than in sedimentary diagenetic stage overall. It may be inferred that the gold enrichment of Haoyaoerhudong gold deposit mostly took place during the sedimentary diagenetic stage; subsequent brittle‐ductile shear and hydrothermal fluid activity did not result in a further enrichment of gold. The sulfur isotope test results of various metallogenic stages in the deposit can be analyzed, and they are generally consistent. The δ34S values range from +10.15% to +16.47%, with an average value of +13.02%. It suggests that there might be a single source of sulfur. According to extensive analysis, the Haoyaoerhudong gold deposit formed a relatively low‐grade ore body during the sedimentary diagenesis stage, and the subsequent tectonic deformation stage and hydrothermal stage provided physical conditions for further activation of gold metal but did not bring corresponding material sources for mineralization.
Is Facebook’s Advertising Data Accurate Enough for Use in Social Science Research? Insights from a Cross-National Online Survey
Authors: Grow André , Perrotta Daniela , Del Fava Emanuele , Cimentada Jorge , Rampazzo Francesco , Gil-Clavel Sofia , Zagheni Emilio , Flores René D. , Ventura Ilana , Weber Ingmar
Published: November 2022

Social scientists increasingly use Facebook’s advertising platform for research, either in the form of conducting digital censuses of the general population, or for recruiting participants for survey research. Both approaches depend on the accuracy of the data that Facebook provides about its users, but little is known about how accurate these data are. We address this gap in a large-scale, cross-national online survey (N = 137,224), in which we compare self-reported and Facebook-classified demographic information (sex, age and region of residence). Our results suggest that Facebook’s advertising platform can be fruitfully used for conducing social science research if additional steps are taken to assess the accuracy of the characteristics under consideration.
Association of vastus lateralis diffusion properties with in vivo quadriceps contractile function in premenopausal women
Authors: Carpenter Rebekah S. , Samaan Michael A. , Clasey Jody L. , Butterfield Tim A. , Gao Fan , Hardy Peter A. , Bollinger Lance M.
Published: November 2022

Background

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters correlate with muscle fiber composition, but it is unclear how these relate to in vivo contractile function.

Purpose

To determine the relationship between DTI parameters of the vastus lateralis (VL) and in vivo knee extensor contractile.

Methods

Thirteen healthy, premenopausal women underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the mid‐thigh to determine patellar tendon moment arm length and quadriceps cross‐sectional area. Fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD) of the VL were determined using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Participants underwent an interpolated twitch (ITT) experiment before and after a fatiguing concentric‐eccentric isokinetic knee extension (60°·s−1). During the ITT, supramaximal electrical stimuli were delivered to elicit twitch responses from the knee extensors before, during, and after a maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). Knee extensor‐specific tension during twitch and MVIC were calculated from isometric torque data. Pearson's correlations were used to determine the relationship between muscle contractile properties and DTI parameters.

Results

MD and RD were moderately correlated with peak twitch force and rate of force development. FA and AD were moderately inversely related to percent change in MVIC following exercise.

Conclusion

MD and RD are associated with in vivo quadriceps twitch properties but not voluntary strength, which may reflect the mechanical properties of constituent fiber types. FA and AD appear to relate to MVIC strength following fatiguing exercise.
Effects of acute normovolemic hemodilution on allogeneic blood transfusion & coagulation in orthognathic surgery: A randomized study
Authors: Li Jiayun , Xia Yangyang , Jin Shanliang , Dong Hui , Zhao PengCheng , Jiang Hong , Hu Rong
Published: November 2022

Background

Acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) is one of the important techniques predominantly used in cardiac, hepatic, and vascular surgery for decreasing allogeneic blood transfusion. However, the effect of ANH in orthognathic surgery has been rarely studied. Therefore, this study aims to assess the ANH‐mediated reduction in the allogeneic red blood cell transfusion for orthognathic surgery patients.

Study design and methods

In this single‐center study, 18–80 years old patients were recruited. Patients with hemoglobin ≥11 g/dL and normal coagulation function were randomly divided into ANH or standard treatment group.

Results

Ninety six patients underwent ANH, and 101 patients received standard treatment. No differences in demographic or major pre‐operative characteristics were observed between the two groups. One patient in the ANH and three patients in the standard treatment group received allogeneic blood [3(2.97%) vs. 1(1.16%), control vs. ANH, p = .395]. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that ANH treatment was not associated with transfusion of allogeneic blood (p = .763). After retransfusing autologous blood, PT and APTT in the ANH group significantly increased compared to standard treatment group (PT: −1.73 ± 1.09 vs. −2.15 ± 1.06, p = .035; APTT: −6.39 ± 5.76 vs. −8.16 ± 5.70, p = .031; control vs. ANH). No significant differences between the two groups were observed for changes in coagulation parameters at first postoperative day. However, platelet counts in the ANH group decreased compared to the standard group. No significant difference in major adverse outcomes was observed between the two groups.

Conclusion

ANH did not reduce the incidence of allogeneic transfusion in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.
SEEKING COMMON GROUND BETWEEN THEOLOGY AND SUSTAINABILITY SCIENCE FOR JUST TRANSITIONS
Authors: Sexton Jason S. , Pincetl Stephanie
Published: November 2022

The new field of sustainability science that has arisen over the past three decades, largely oriented toward cities, under closer examination may prove to be wholly inadequate to deal with the issues it was initially designed to address. Built largely upon modernist value assumptions, its entire range of outlooks has failed to account for the character virtues needed to realize sustainable approaches for the future, which are better found working within different religious traditions’ theologies and ethical outlooks. In light of this, the present article takes up a replicable agenda for analyzing how these particular character virtues—with special focus on parsimony and futuremindedness—work with regard to visions of sustainability that promise to bring about a more just transition in cities.
Thick filament activation is different in fast‐ and slow‐twitch skeletal muscle
Authors: Gong Henry M. , Ma Weikang , Regnier Michael , Irving Thomas C.
Published: November 2022

The contractile properties of fast‐twitch and slow‐twitch skeletal muscles are primarily determined by the myosin isoform content and modulated by a variety of sarcomere proteins. X‐ray diffraction studies of regulatory mechanisms in muscle contraction have focused predominately on fast‐ or mixed‐fibre muscle with slow muscle being much less studied. Here, we used time‐resolved X‐ray diffraction to investigate the dynamic behaviour of the myofilament proteins in relatively pure slow‐twitch‐fibre rat soleus (SOL) and pure fast‐twitch‐fibre rat extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle during twitch and tetanic contractions at optimal length. During twitch contractions the diffraction signatures indicating a transition in the myosin heads from ordered OFF states, where heads are held close to the thick filament backbone, to disordered ON states, where heads are free to bind to thin filaments, were found in EDL and not in SOL muscle. During tetanic contraction, changes in the disposition of myosin heads as active tension develops is a quasi‐stepwise process in EDL muscle whereas in SOL muscle this relationship appears to be linear. The observed reduced extensibility of the thick filaments in SOL muscle as compared to EDL muscles indicates a molecular basis for this behaviour. These data indicate that for the EDL, thick filament activation is a cooperative strain‐induced mechano‐sensing mechanism, whereas for the SOL, thick filament activation has a more graded response. These different approaches to thick filament regulation in fast‐ and slow‐twitch muscles may be adaptations for short‐duration, strong contractions versus sustained, finely controlled contractions, respectively.

image

Key points

Fast‐twitch muscle and slow‐twitch muscle are optimized for strong, short‐duration contractions and for tonic postural activity, respectively.

Structural events (OFF to ON transitions) in the myosin‐containing thick filaments in fast muscle help determine the timing and strength of contractions, but these have not been studied in slow‐twitch muscle.

The X‐ray diffraction signatures of structural OFF to ON transitions are different in fast extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and slow soleus (SOL) muscle, being completely absent during twitches in soleus muscle and blunted during tetanic contractions SOL as compared to EDL

Quasi‐stepwise thick filament structural OFF to ON transitions in fast twitch muscle may be an adaptation for rapid, ballistic movements, whereas more graded OFF to ON structural transitions in slow‐twitch muscle may be an adaptation for slower, finer motions.
Machine learning and atomic layer deposition: Predicting saturation times from reactor growth profiles using artificial neural networks
Authors: Yanguas-Gil Angel , Elam Jeffrey W.
Published: November 2022

In this work, we explore the application of deep neural networks to the optimization of atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes. In particular, we focus on a one-shot optimization problem, where we try to predict the optimal dose time that leads to saturation everywhere in the reactor based on thickness values measured at different points of an ALD reactor after a single trial growth. In order to tackle this problem, we introduce a dataset designed to train neural networks to predict saturation times based on these inputs for a cross-flow ALD reactor. We then explore the predictive ability of artificial neural networks of different depths and sizes using a separate testing dataset to evaluate their accuracies. The results obtained show that networks trained using stochastic gradient descent methods can accurately predict saturation times without requiring any additional information on the surface kinetics. This provides a viable approach to minimize the number of experiments required to optimize new ALD processes in a known reactor, and it highlights the way machine learning can be leveraged for thin film growth and manufacturing. While the datasets and training procedure depend on the reactor geometry, the trained neural networks provide a general surrogate model connecting thickness values and trial dose times with optimal saturation times that can be reused for different ALD processes within the same reactor.
Fluorescence alignment simulation for atomic-scale position adjustment in ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography
Authors: Niinomi Hiromasa , Harada Subaru , Hayakawa Toshiaki , Nakagawa Masaru
Published: November 2022

The alignment process of ultraviolet (UV) nanoimprint lithography requires a further sophisticated method to detect infinitesimal misalignments between a synthetic quartz mold and a silicon substrate. Previously, we proposed a fluorescence-alignment method based on the analysis of the additive-type moiré fringes generated by the interferences of fluorescence emission from fluorescent UV-curable liquid filling the concave bar-mark arrays on a synthetic quartz mold and a silicon substrate. The proposed method significantly reduces the cost of mold fabrication and simplifies the in-liquid process compared to the conventional method based on multiplicative-type moiré fringes prevailing in the industry. This is because the fluorescence-alignment method is free from the problem of the refractive index matching between mold and UV-curable liquid materials. However, its position accuracy remains as large as sub-10 nm scales in principle. In this study, through simulation using image drawing and analysis software, we demonstrate that a sophisticated fluorescence alignment can realize atomic-scale precision for position accuracy by attempting the following concepts: (i) the application of the principle on position determination of a fluorescent single-molecule to that of an individual bar-mark fluorescence signal; (ii) effective use of high bit-depth of recent imaging devices; and (iii) accumulations of the information on the positions of multiple bar-marks with periodicities by fitting their fluorescence intensity profiles using a periodic function.
Mechanistic insights into low-temperature epitaxial growth of aluminum nitride films on layered transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Hsieh Tung Chen , Liao Yu-Ming , Hsu Wei-Fan , Kao Hui-Ling , Huang Yu-Che , Chang Shu-Jui , Chen Yu-Shian , Hsieh Ya-Ping
Published: November 2022

It has been demonstrated that the WS2 monolayer is an excellent template for AlN epitaxy at 400 °C low temperature. Low-temperature AlN thin films exhibit much superior crystalline quality than those grown directly on sapphire substrates. In addition to the small lattice mismatch between AlN and WS2 monolayer, we proposed a growth mechanism to explain the excellent van der Waal epitaxy by looking at the initial growth. This growth model reveals that transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are promising buffer layers for the deposition of III-nitrides but also suggests the novel combination of AlN and TMDCs in the research of future 2D field-effect transistors due to the extremely low leakage current of high-quality AlN films.
Perception of English and Catalan vowels by English and Catalan listeners. Part II. Perceptual vs ecphoric similarity
Authors: Cebrian Juli
Published: November 2022

Although crosslinguistic similarity is a crucial concept for many disciplines in the speech sciences, there is no clear consensus as to the most appropriate method to measure it. This paper assessed the perceived similarity between English and Catalan vowels by means of an overt direct task evaluating perceptual similarity. The extent to which perceptual similarity is reciprocal is also explored by comparing perceptual judgements obtained by speakers of the two languages involved. Twenty-seven native Catalan speakers and 27 native English speakers rated the perceived dissimilarity between two aurally presented vowel stimuli. Trials included native–non-native pairs as well as native-native pairs to serve as baseline data. Some native–non-native pairs were perceived to be as similar as same-category native pairs, illustrating cases of very high crosslinguistic perceptual similarity. Further, in terms of reciprocity, the results showed a bidirectionality in similarity relationships that point to some cases of near-identical or shared categories and also illustrate the role of language-specific cue weighting in determining perceptual similarity. Finally, a comparison with the outcome of a previous study [Cebrian (2021). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 149(4), 2671–2685], involving the same participants and languages but exploring ecphoric similarity, shows a generally high degree of agreement and a close relationship between the two types of similarity.
Changes in Amplitude of Hamstring Electromyographic Activity and Its Peak Location During Nordic Hamstring Exercise by Adding External Load
Authors: Soga Toshiaki , Saito Hiromi , Akiyama Kei , Hirose Norikazu
Published: November 2022

This crossover trial aimed to investigate whether additional loading of unilateral Nordic hamstring exercise on a sloped platform would increase the biceps femoris long head electromyographic activity. Participants were randomly allocated to unilateral Nordic hamstring exercise under three conditions: bodyweight only (BW) or BW with an added weighted ball of 3 kg (BW + 3 kg) or 6 kg (BW + 6 kg), respectively. The biceps femoris long head electromyographic activity was significantly higher for BW + 6 kg (p < .001) than for BW and BW + 3 kg (p < .01). Therefore, adding a load to unilateral Nordic hamstring exercise on a sloped platform might be effective for rehabilitation and prevention of hamstring strain injury recurrence.
Iron Status and Homeostasis Across 2 Competitive Seasons in NCAA Division I Collegiate Cross-Country Runners Residing at Low Altitude
Authors: Goodrich Jesse A. , Frisco Dillon J. , Kim Sewan , VanBaak Karin , Holliday Marissa , Rueda Miguel , Poddar Sourav , Byrnes William C.
Published: November 2022

Purpose: Inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-6 can upregulate hepcidin and decrease iron absorption. Endurance exercise is associated with transient increases in cytokines, which may alter the risk of iron deficiency (ID). This study examined whether chronic elevations in basal levels of cytokines and hepcidin were associated with ID in highly trained runners. Methods: Fifty-four collegiate runners (26 males and 28 females) living at ∼1625 m were recruited from an NCAA Division I cross-country team for this prospective cohort study. Over 2 seasons, fasted, preexercise blood draws were performed in the morning 4 times per season and were analyzed for hemoglobin concentration, ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), hepcidin, and 10 cytokines. Stages of ID were defined using ferritin, sTfR, and hemoglobin concentration. During the study, a registered dietician provided all runners with iron supplements using athletic department–created guidelines. Results: Fifty-seven percent of females and 35% of males exhibited stage 2 ID (ferritin <20 ng/mL or sTfR >29.5 nmol/L) at least once. Cytokines, ferritin, and sTfR exhibited changes through the 2 years, but changes in cytokines were not associated with alterations in hepcidin, ferritin, or sTfR. In males and females, lower ferritin was associated with lower hepcidin (both P < .0001). One female exhibited higher hepcidin and lower iron stores compared with other individuals, suggesting a different etiology of ID. Conclusion: ID is common in highly trained collegiate runners. In general, the high prevalence of ID in this population is not associated with alterations in basal hepcidin or cytokine levels.
Membrane-Binding Biomolecules Influence the Rate of Vesicle Exchange between Bacteria
Authors: Tran Frances , Gangan Manasi S. , Weaver Brian P. , Boedicker James Q.
Published: November 2022

The exchange of bacterial extracellular vesicles is one route of gene transfer between bacteria, although it was unclear if bacteria developed strategies to modulate the rate of gene transfer within vesicles. In eukaryotes, there are many examples of specialized molecules that have evolved to facilitate the production, loading, and uptake of vesicles.
Human Norovirus Efficiently Replicates in Differentiated 3D-Human Intestinal Enteroids
Authors: Mirabelli Carmen , Santos-Ferreira Nanci , Gillilland Merritt G. , Cieza Roberto J. , Colacino Justin A. , Sexton Jonathan Z. , Neyts Johan , Taube Stefan , Rocha-Pereira Joana , Wobus Christiane E.
Published: November 2022

The human norovirus (HNoV) clinical and socio-economic impact calls for immediate action in the development of anti-infectives. Physiologically relevant
in vitro
models are hence needed to study HNoV biology, tropism, and mechanisms of viral-associated disease, and also as a platform to identify antiviral agents.
The Origin of Internal Genes Contributes to the Replication and Transmission Fitness of H7N9 Avian Influenza Virus
Authors: James Joe , Bhat Sushant , Walsh Sarah K. , Karunarathna Thusitha K. , Sadeyen Jean-Remy , Chang Pengxiang , Sealy Joshua E. , Mahmood Sahar , Mollett Benjamin C. , Slomka Marek J. , Brookes Sharon M. , Iqbal Munir
Published: November 2022

H9N2 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are enzootic in poultry in different geographical regions. The internal genes of these viruses can be exchanged with other zoonotic AIVs, most notably the A/Anhui/1/2013-lineage H7N9, which can give rise to new virus genotypes with increased veterinary, economic and public health threats to both poultry and humans.
Systematic Analysis of IL-1 Cytokine Signaling Suppression by HPV16 Oncoproteins
Authors: Castagnino Paola , Kim Hee Won , Lam Long Kwan Metthew , Basu Devraj , White Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2022

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is responsible for nearly 5% of the worldwide cancer burden. HPV-positive tumors develop over years to decades in tissues that are subject to frequent stimulation by proinflammatory cytokines.
Anaerobic Biohydrogenation of Isoprene by Acetobacterium wieringae Strain Y
Authors: Jin Huijuan , Li Xiuying , Wang Hongyan , Cápiro Natalie L. , Li Xiaocui , Löffler Frank E. , Yan Jun , Yang Yi
Published: November 2022

Isoprene is the most abundant, biologically generated, volatile organic compound on Earth, with estimated emissions in the same magnitude as methane. Nonetheless, a comprehensive knowledge of isoprene turnover in the environment is lacking, impacting global isoprene flux models and our understanding of the environmental fate and longevity of isoprene.
Whole-Genome Sequence of an Arsenite-Oxidizing Bacterium,
Pandoraea
sp. Strain NE5, Isolated from the Rhizosphere of the Arsenic Hyperaccumulator Pteris vittata
Authors: Miyauchi Keisuke
Published: November 2022

Pandoraea
sp. strain NE5, an arsenite-oxidizing bacterium, was isolated from the rhizosphere of an arsenic hyperaccumulator fern (
Pteris vittate
). Here, the genome sequence of
Pandoraea
sp. strain NE5 is announced.
Draft Genome Sequence of Labrys okinawensis, Isolated from
Acaciella
sp. Nodules in Mexico
Authors: Chávez-Ramírez Belén , Larios-Serrato Violeta , Estrada-de los Santos Paulina
Published: November 2022

A new plant-associated bacterium,
Labrys okinawensis
strain LIt4, was isolated from root nodules of wild
Acaciella
sp. in Morelos, Mexico. The 6,499,737-bp genome sequence provides opportunities to investigate a new reference strain to add information about the species
L. okinawensis
.
Draft Genome Sequences for Bacteria Associated with Root Nodules of Alnus incana in New England
Authors: Mercurio Kelsey , Sevigny Joseph , Pesce Céline , Thomas W. Kelley , Tisa Louis S.
Published: November 2022

Nine bacterial strains isolated from the root nodules of
Alnus incana
were sequenced to determine their potential roles in plant health. The selected bacterial isolates belonged to the genera
Bacillus, Herbaspirillum
,
Pantoea
,
Paenibacillus
, and
Rothia
. Here, we report the draft genome sequences.
Complete Genomic Sequences of Two Agarolytic
Vibrio
Species Isolates from the Red Algae
Gracilaria
Authors: Ito Mei , Muta Mikihisa , Funatsu Takashi , Hatada Yuji , Iizuka Ryo
Published: November 2022

We report the complete genomic sequences of two agarolytic
Vibrio
species strains, STUT-A11 and STUT-A16, isolated from the red algae
Gracilaria
. Genomic annotations revealed that both strains harbor four β-agarases, α-neoagarooligosaccharide hydrolase, and agarolytic β-galactosidase, which support efficient agarose catabolism.
Summer Dynamics of Microbial Diversity on a Mountain Glacier
Authors: Hotaling Scott , Price Taylor L. , Hamilton Trinity L.
Published: November 2022

Microbial diversity on mountain glaciers is an underexplored component of global biodiversity. Microbial presence and activity can also reduce the surface albedo or reflectiveness of glaciers, causing them to absorb more solar radiation and melt faster, which in turn drives more microbial activity.
A Genome-Wide CRISPR Interference Screen Reveals an StkP-Mediated Connection between Cell Wall Integrity and Competence in Streptococcus salivarius
Authors: Knoops Adrien , Waegemans Alexandra , Lamontagne Morgane , Decat Baptiste , Mignolet Johann , Veening Jan-Willem , Hols Pascal
Published: November 2022

Survival of human commensal streptococci in the digestive tract requires efficient strategies which must be tightly and collectively controlled for responding to competitive pressure and drastic environmental changes. In this context, the autocrine signaling system ComRS controlling competence for natural transformation and predation in salivarius streptococci could be seen as a multi-input device integrating a variety of environmental stimuli.
Frequent Occurrence and Metabolic Versatility of
Marinifilaceae
Bacteria as Key Players in Organic Matter Mineralization in Global Deep Seas
Authors: Li Jianyang , Dong Chunming , Lai Qiliang , Wang Guangyi , Shao Zongze
Published: November 2022

Microbial mineralization of organic matter has a significant impact on the global biogeochemical cycle. This report confirms the role of
Marinifilaceae
in organic degradation in the oceans, with a contribution to ocean carbon cycling that has previously been underestimated.
Defining Composition and Function of the Rhizosphere Microbiota of Barley Genotypes Exposed to Growth-Limiting Nitrogen Supplies
Authors: Alegria Terrazas Rodrigo , Robertson-Albertyn Senga , Corral Aileen Mary , Escudero-Martinez Carmen , Kapadia Rumana , Balbirnie-Cumming Katharin , Morris Jenny , Hedley Pete E. , Barret Matthieu , Torres-Cortes Gloria , Paterson Eric , Baggs Elizabeth M. , Abbott James , Bulgarelli Davide
Published: November 2022

The microbiota inhabiting the rhizosphere, the thin layer of soil surrounding plant roots, can promote the growth, development, and health of their host plants. Previous research indicated that differences in the genetic composition of the host plant coincide with variations in the composition of the rhizosphere microbiota.
Neutralization Epitopes in Trimer and Pentamer Complexes Recognized by Potent Cytomegalovirus-Neutralizing Human Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Ai Yuanbao , Wu Changwen , Zhang Ming , Jaijyan Dabbu Kumar , Liu Tong , Zan Lipeng , Li Nan , Yu Wei , Wang Yueming , Yuan Xiaohui , Li Chengming , Zheng Weihong , Zhu Hua , Liao Hua-Xin
Published: November 2022

The majority of the global population is infected with HCMV, but severe complications occur only in immunocompromised individuals. In addition, CMV infection is a major cause of birth defects in newborns.
Performance Evaluation of the Fully Automated NeuMoDx RT-PCR Platform for the Quantification of CMV and EBV DNA in EDTA Plasma: Implications for Clinical Management and Establishment of a Conversion Formula
Authors: Herdina Anna Nele , Ratzinger Franz , Breuer Monika , Schellnegger Julia , Chen Rui Qiang , Watkins-Riedel Thomas , Perkmann-Nagele Nicole , Strassl Robert
Published: November 2022

Clinical management of solid organ transplant (SOT) patients requires the careful monitoring of immunosuppression and viral infection or reactivation. qPCR is the gold standard for the detection and quantification of very small amounts of viral DNA and allows for an early assessment of viral load kinetics. The tested NeuMoDx 96 platform provides faster results than the previously used RT-PCR workflows for CMV (Abbott m2000 and RealTime CMV assay) and EBV (LightCycler 480 II, Roche high pure extraction, and Altona RealStar EBV assay) DNA detection.
Macular neovascularisation in a patient with osteogenesis imperfecta exhibiting a novelCOL1A1mutation
Authors: Sato Yoshiki , Kimoto Kenichi , Takaki Yasuhiro , Kubota Toshiaki
Published: November 2022

Osteogenesis imperfecta is a congenital disease that presents with varying degrees of connective tissue symptoms, including susceptibility to fracture, growth disorders and hearing loss. Here, we discuss a case in which macular neovascularisation (MNV) resulted in metamorphopsia and decreased visual acuity in a patient with osteogenesis imperfecta exhibiting a novelCOL1A1gene mutation (p.Tyr165*). The patient was a woman in her 30s who reported experiencing distorted vision and diminished visual acuity in her right eye for 1 month as well as a history of hearing loss. Rapid improvements in exudative changes and suppression of relapse were achieved after only two intravitreal injections of ranibizumab. Furthermore, since MNV occurred slightly inferior to the fovea centralis, improvements in visual acuity were better than previously reported. As fragility of Bruch’s membrane represents the basis of onset, recurrence and relapse are likely in patients exhibiting MNV, highlighting the need for regular follow-up.
Current practice, attitude and views of providing pregnancy care for women with type 1 diabetes in China: a qualitative study
Authors: Luo Sihui , Yan Jinhua , Yang Daizhi , Xiong Shanshan , Wang Chaofan , Guo Yan , Yao Bin , Weng Jianping , Zheng Xueying
Published: November 2022

Objective

Data are sparse on healthcare needs related to pregnancy among Chinese women with type 1 diabetes (T1D) or the gap between the needs and healthcare provision in China. We aimed to identify their needs and the gaps in pregnancy care provision.

Design

This is a qualitative, face-to-face, one-to-one in-depth interview study. We recruited our participants using a purposive sampling strategy. Semistructural outlines were used to guide the interviews. The interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed and analysed using a thematic framework method with NVivo V.10.0.

Setting

Guangdong Province in China.

Participants

This study involved three key stakeholders of pregnancy care for women with T1D: 29 women with T1D of childbearing age (aged 18–50 years), 16 family members (husbands, parents and parents-in-law of women with T1D) and 35 relevant healthcare providers (HCPs).

Results

We found that women with T1D and the family members had a more pessimistic attitude towards pregnancy outcomes, which was different from the more positive view of HCPs. However, all three stakeholders shared the following perspectives regarding pregnancy-related care for women with T1D: (1) lack of knowledge and access to education, (2) lack of multidisciplinary cooperation, (3) education should be started earlier in adulthood, (3) positive role of peer support, and (4) hope for future training of HCPs for relevant knowledge and skills specified for T1D and pregnancy with T1D.

Conclusions

An immense gap was identified between the needs of women with T1D regarding pregnancy-related care and current care provision in China. These findings suggest that education be provided to patients and HCPs, and the role of professional and multidisciplinary support should be enhanced to optimise pregnancy care for women with T1D in China.
Community collaboration to improve access and outcomes in breast cancer reconstruction: protocol for a mixed-methods qualitative research study
Authors: Mundy Lily R , Stukes Bryanna , Njoroge Moreen , Fish Laura Jane , Sergesketter Amanda R , Wang Sabrina M , Worthy Valarie , Fayanju Oluwadamilola M , Greenup Rachel A , Hollenbeck Scott T
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Breast reconstruction plays an important role for many in restoring form and function of the breast after mastectomy. However, rates of breast reconstruction in the USA vary significantly by race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. The lower rates of breast reconstruction in non-white women and in women of lower socioeconomic status may reflect a complex interplay between patient and physician factors and access to care. It remains unknown what community-specific barriers may be impacting receipt of breast reconstruction.

Methods and analysis

This is a mixed-methods study combining qualitative patient interview data with quantitative practice patterns to develop an actionable plan to address disparities in breast reconstruction in the local community. The primary aims are to (1) capture barriers to breast reconstruction for patients in the local community, (2) quantitatively evaluate practice patterns at the host institution and (3) identify issues and prioritise interventions for change using community-based engagement.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained at the investigators’ institution. Results from both the quantitative and qualitative portions of the study will be circulated via peer-review publication. These findings will also serve as pilot data for extramural funding to implement and evaluate these proposed solutions.
Less than full-time training (LTFT), is this the new norm? A cross-sectional study using a UK-wide online survey to evaluate trainees’ views and intentions for LTFT
Authors: Cathcart Jennifer , Mayne Kaitlin J , Hull Richard , Jones Michael , Miller Alastair
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Interest in less than full-time training (LTFT) is growing among doctors in training. LTFT applications have previously been limited to fulfilment of specific criteria such as childcare or health reasons, but Health Education for England (HEE) has recently completed a pilot into LTFT for a third category: lifestyle choice. This was recognised as an opportunity to canvas trainee perspectives and intentions on LTFT and implications for workforce planning.

Design

A cross-sectional study of UK trainees via an online questionnaire.

Setting/participants

The survey was distributed via email to trainees in all specialities and stages of training across the UK. The survey focused on three key themes: experiences of current LTFT trainees, perspectives of trainees considering LTFT in the future and experience of working with LTFT colleagues.

Results

Responses were received from 783 trainees across the UK, with most responses received from physician trainees (76%). Current LTFT trainees represented one-third of respondents. Of those not currently working LTFT, 75% expressed an intention to do so in future with lifestyle being the most common reason. Almost half of this group were concerned about the impact on their training. Stigma, reduced training opportunities, prolonged training and the application process were commonly cited barriers. These difficulties were experienced by several current LTFT trainees, 32% of whom described a negative impact on their training. Almost two-thirds (62%) of respondents stated they wish to work LTFT as a consultant.

Conclusion

Systems must adapt to increase access to LTFT training to promote trainee well-being and retention. Progress is being made and we suggest HEE’s category three pilot be rolled out across the UK as a priority. Workforce planning needs to consider the substantial rise in popularity of LTFT among trainees to offset any shortfalls in the present and future workforce.
Dietary and/or physical activity interventions in women with overweight or obesity prior to fertility treatment: protocol for a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis
Authors: Evans-Hoeker Emily , Wang Zheng , Groen Henk , Cantineau Astrid E P , Thurin‐Kjellberg Ann , Bergh Christina , Laven Joop S E , Dietz de Loos Alexandra , Jiskoot Geranne , Baillargeon Jean-Patrice , Palomba Stefano , Sim Kyra , Moran Lisa J , Espinós Juan J , Moholdt Trine , Rothberg Amy E , Shoupe Donna , Hoek Annemieke , Legro Richard S , Mol Ben W , Wang Rui
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Dietary and/or physical activity interventions are often recommended for women with overweight or obesity as the first step prior to fertility treatment. However, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) so far have shown inconsistent results. Therefore, we propose this individual participant data meta-analysis (IPDMA) to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of dietary and/or physical activity interventions in women with infertility and overweight or obesity on reproductive, maternal and perinatal outcomes and to explore if there are subgroup(s) of women who benefit from each specific intervention or their combination (treatment–covariate interactions).

Methods and analysis

We will include RCTs with dietary and/or physical activity interventions as core interventions prior to fertility treatment in women with infertility and overweight or obesity. The primary outcome will be live birth. We will search MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and trial registries to identify eligible studies. We will approach authors of eligible trials to contribute individual participant data (IPD). We will perform risk of bias assessments according to the Risk of Bias 2 tool and a random-effects IPDMA. We will then explore treatment–covariate interactions for important participant-level characteristics.

Ethics and dissemination

Formal ethical approval for the project (Venus-IPD) was exempted by the medical ethics committee of the University Medical Center Groningen (METc code: 2021/563, date: 17 November 2021). Data transfer agreement will be obtained from each participating institute/hospital. Outcomes will be disseminated internationally through the collaborative group, conference presentations and peer-reviewed publication.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021266201.
‘Out of sync’: a qualitative investigation of patients’ experiences of atrial fibrillation and perceptions of weight management
Authors: Bates Rachel Wendy , Bailey Cara , Topping AE
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To explore ways to enhance the design of risk factor management and weight-loss services for people with overweight/obesity and atrial fibrillation (AF).

Background

AF is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, with serious consequences for health and quality of life. Some evidence indicates weight reduction in people with AF and overweight/obesity may improve symptoms. This population may require additional support with weight management due to factors associated with ageing and health.

Design

Qualitative investigation based on semi-structured interviews.

Methods

12 adult participants (4 female, 8 male) with diagnosed AF and a current or previous body mass index >27 kg/m2were recruited at a large tertiary cardiac referral centre in southern England between September 2020 and January 2021. Participants completed quality of life and AF symptom questionnaires using Think-Aloud technique and semi-structured interviews relating to their weight management experiences, needs and preferences. Interviews were audio recorded and analysed thematically using the Capability, Opportunity and Motivation-Behaviour model as a theoretical framework.

Results

Three main themes were identified.Being out of rhythmexplores the psychological and physical impact of AF on weight management;doing the right thingdiscusses participants’ weight management experiences andbroaching the subjectexplores participants’ perspectives on weight management conversations with clinicians.

Conclusions

There was dissatisfaction with the weight management advice received from healthcare professionals including cardiologists. Participants wanted open, non-judgemental discussion of cardiac health implications of overweight/obesity supported by referral to weight management services. Improved communication including research findings regarding the benefits of weight loss as a factor in AF management might increase motivation to adhere to weight-loss advice in this population.
Increased cytomegalovirus immune responses at disease onset are protective in the long-term prognosis of patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Comabella Manuel , Tintore Mar , Sao Avilés Augusto , Carbonell-Mirabent Pere , Malhotra Sunny , Rovira Alex , Fissolo Nicolás , Lünemann Jan D , Montalban Xavier
Published: November 2022

Objective

It remains unclear whether viral infections interfere with multiple sclerosis (MS) disease progression. We evaluated the prognostic role of antibody responses toward viruses determined at disease onset on long-term disease outcomes.

Methods

Humoral immune responses against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-encoded nuclear antigen EBNA1, viral capsid antigen (VCA) and early antigen, and toward cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus 6 and measles were investigated in a cohort of 143 patients with MS for their association with long-term disability and inflammation disease outcomes.

Results

Median (IQR) follow-up was 20 (17.2–22.8) years. In univariable analysis, increased HCMV levels were associated with a lower risk to Expanded Disability Status Scale 4.0 (HR 0.95; 95% CI 0.91 to 0.99; p=0.03), to develop a secondary progressive MS (HR 0.94; 95% CI 0.90 to 0.99; p=0.02) and to first-line treatment (HR 0.98; 95% CI 0.96 to 0.99; p=0.04). High HCMV IgG levels were associated with a longer time to first-line treatment (p=0.01). Increased immune responses against EBV-VCA were associated with higher risk for first-line (HR 1.45; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.88; p=0.005) and second-line treatments (HR 2.03; 95% CI 1.18 to 3.49; p=0.01), and high VCA IgG levels were associated with shorter time to first-line (p=0.004) and second-line (p=0.02) therapies. EBNA1-specific IgG levels correlated with disease severity (0.17; p=0.04) and with an increased relapse rate during follow-up (relapse rate 1.26; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.56; p=0.02) that remained stable in multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

These results indicate that elevated immune responses against HCMV at disease onset have protective effects on long-term disability and inflammation disease outcomes. Our data also indicate that increased immune responses against EBV in early phases may influence long-term disease prognosis.