bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glare and Mobility Performance in Glaucoma: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bertaud Samuel , Zenouda Ariel , Lombardi Marco , Authié Colas , Brasnu Emmanuelle , Hamard Pascale , Sahel José-Alain , Baudouin Christophe , Labbé Antoine
Published: September 2021

Précis:

Glare disability affects patients with moderate and severe glaucoma. Under glare conditions, mobility performances of glaucoma patients are reduced.

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate glare disability and its impact on mobility and orientation in glaucoma patients.

Methods:

Twenty-two glaucoma patients and 12 age-matched control subjects were included. All patients underwent a clinical evaluation of visual function and halo size measurements to determine glare disability with a glare score (GS) of the best eye and worse eye. Mobility was evaluated by 4 mobility courses on an artificial street (StreetLab) under photopic conditions (P) and mesopic conditions with an additional light source in front of the patient to mimic dazzling conditions (M+G). Mobility time, mobility incidents, trajectory segmentation, distance traveled, preferred walking speed on trial (WS) and percentage of preferred walking speed (PPWS) were recorded, and the Nasa task load index (Nasa-TLX) was evaluated.

Results:

GS of the worse eye and GS of the best eye were significantly higher in glaucoma patients than in the control group (P=0.001 and 0.003). It was significantly different between moderate glaucoma patients and controls (P=0.001 and 0.010, respectively) and between severe glaucoma patients and controls (P=0.049 and 0.016). In locomotion tasks, comparing performance under M+G and P conditions, mobility performance was significantly different concerning mobility time (P=0.010), distance traveled (P=0.008), WS (P=0.007), PPWS (P=0.006), and Nasa-TLX (P=0.017) in the glaucoma group. Under M+G lighting conditions, mobility performance for glaucoma patients was significantly worse than controls with regard to WS (P=0.038), PPWS (P=0.0498), mobility time (P=0.046), and Nasa-TLX (P=0.006).

Conclusion:

Glare disability was observed in patients with moderate and severe glaucoma and had an impact on their mobility performance.
Neonatal Early Onset Sepsis: Impact of Kaiser Calculator in an Italian Tertiary Perinatal Center
Authors: Pontello Eleonora , Favero Valentina , Mainini Nicoletta , Tormena Francesca , Giovannini Michela , Galeazzo Beatrice , Frigo Anna Chiara , Lago Paola
Published: September 2021

Background:

Suspected early-onset sepsis (EOS) results in antibiotic treatment and blood withdraw of a substantial number of neonates who are uninfected. We evaluated if the EOS calculator can reduce antibiotic exposure and invasive procedures for suspected EOS in term and late preterm neonates, without any significant increase in adverse outcomes.

Methods:

The proportion of EOS risk in neonates ≥35 weeks gestation exposed to antibiotics, intensive monitoring and blood withdrawal was compared between a baseline period (January 2018–May 2018), when Centers for Disease Control guidelines approach was used, and a post-EOS calculator-implementation period (June 2018–December 2019).

Results:

We included 4363 newborn infants with gestational age ≥35 weeks, respectively 824 in baseline period and 3539 in the EOS calculator period. Among them, 1021 (23.4%) infants presented risk factors for neonatal sepsis. There was a halving in empirical antibiotics exposure: 3% in the baseline and 1.4% in the post-EOS-implementation period, P < 0.05. Blood culture and laboratory evaluations had fallen from 30.6% to 15.4% (P < 0.05). Close monitoring of vital parameters decreased from 25.4% to 4.8% (P < 0.05). The number of antibiotic days per 100 live births decreased from 15.05 to 6.36 days (P <0.05). The incidence of culture-confirmed sepsis and clinical sepsis was very low in 2 periods. Only one infant identified at low-risk by Kaiser calculator at birth developed symptoms after 12 h from birth. We had no readmissions for EOS.

Conclusions:

Application of the EOS calculator more than halved the burden of intensive monitoring and antibiotic exposure, without compromising safety in a population with a relatively low incidence of culture-proven EOS and good access to follow-up care.
Practicing What We Teach: Increasing Inhaler Use for Mild Asthma in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Agbim Chisom , Patel Shilpa J. , Brown Kathleen , Kline Jaclyn
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

Asthma is a leading cause of pediatric emergency department (ED) visits. A metered-dose inhaler and spacer (MDI-S) device is equivalent to and more cost effective than delivery by nebulization in the ED management of mild asthma exacerbations. We aimed to increase the use of albuterol MDI-S among patients with mild asthma exacerbations using a quality improvement framework.

Methods:

We evaluated albuterol use for mild asthma exacerbations between January 2019 and March 2020 in our pediatric EDs.

Results:

Our primary outcome was the proportion of albuterol delivered through an MDI-S. Our process measure was the use of a new electronic order set. Balancing measures included ED length of stay, admission rates, and the use of intravenous magnesium. Interventions included forging multidisciplinary partnerships, revising clinical practice guidelines, establishing an electronic order set, and leading educational initiatives for clinicians. We demonstrated a center line shift of MDI-S use from 34.4% to 47.7%. The average length of stay, hospital admissions, and magnesium use were not affected by our interventions.

Conclusion:

Forging multidisciplinary partnerships, creating an electronic order set prioritizing albuterol MDI-S use, and educational initiatives led to a sustained increase in albuterol MDI-S use for mild asthma in our pediatric EDs.
Relationship between cervical curvature and spinal cord drift distance after laminectomy via lateral mass screw fixation and its effect on clinical efficacy
Authors: Liu Yong , Zhou Xiao-Zhe , Li Ning , Xu Tong-Guang
Published: September 2021

Background:

Laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation (LCS) is considered an effective surgical procedure for cervical spondylotic myelopathy. However, varying degrees of loss of the cervical curvature were noted in some patients postoperatively. The aim of this study was to observe the relationship between cervical curvature and spinal drift distance after LCS and to determine its effect on neurological function, axial symptoms, and C5 palsy.

Methods:

A total of 117 consecutive cervical spondylotic myelopathy patients with normal cervical curvature underwent LCS from April 2015 to May 2017 in our institution. Of these patients, 90 patients who accepted to undergo an integrated follow-up were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into 3 groups based on their postoperative cervical curvature. In group A (28 patients), the cervical curvature became straight postoperatively (0°≤cervical spine angle≤5°); in group B (36 patients), the cervical curvature decreased (5°16.5°). Spinal drift distance, neurological recovery, axial symptoms, and C5 palsy in the patients were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

Postoperative measurements showed that there was no significant difference in laminectomy width between the groups (P > .05). The cervical spine angle was 2.7° ± 0.5° in group A, 11.2° ± 2.6° in group B, and 20.8° ± 4.1° in group C (P < .05), while the spinal drift distance was 1.2 ± 0.2 mm, 1.8 ± 0.4 mm, and 3.0 ± 0.5 mm, respectively (P < .05). The postoperative Japanese Orthopedic Association score was significantly increased in all groups (P < .05), and there was no significant difference between the groups at different time points (P > .05). However, significant differences were noted between the groups in axial symptoms (P < .05), which were analyzed via the visual analog scale score. The occurrence of C5 palsy in groups A, B, and C was 7.1% (2/28), 8.3% (3/36), and 11.5% (3/26), respectively (P > .05).

Conclusion:

In LCS, the cervical curvature should be maintained at the normal angle to obtain a good spinal cord drift distance and a lower incidence of axial symptoms.
Application of machine learning in CT images and X-rays of COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Zhang Fengjun
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread worldwide. X-ray and computed tomography (CT) are 2 technologies widely used in image acquisition, segmentation, diagnosis, and evaluation. Artificial intelligence can accurately segment infected parts in X-ray and CT images, assist doctors in improving diagnosis efficiency, and facilitate the subsequent assessment of the severity of the patient infection. The medical assistant platform based on machine learning can help radiologists make clinical decisions and helper in screening, diagnosis, and treatment. By providing scientific methods for image recognition, segmentation, and evaluation, we summarized the latest developments in the application of artificial intelligence in COVID-19 lung imaging, and provided guidance and inspiration to researchers and doctors who are fighting the COVID-19 virus.
Lack of association of FKBP5 SNPs and haplotypes with susceptibility and treatment response phenotypes in Han Chinese with major depressive disorder
Authors: Yang Chenghao , Li Shen , Ma Yanyan , Chen Bing , Li Meijuan , Bosker Fokko J. , Li Jie , Nolte Ilja M.
Published: September 2021

The identification of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes putatively related to pathophysiological processes in major depressive disorder (MDD) might improve both diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies eventually leading to more effective interventions. Considering the important role of the glucocorticoid receptor and the related FK506 binding protein 51 (FKBP51) in the pathophysiology of MDD, we aimed to investigate putative associations between variants of FKBP5, the coding gene of FKBP51, with antidepressant treatment resistance and MDD susceptibility.

Nine common SNPs of the FKBP5 gene prioritized based on location and, putative or known functions were genotyped in Han Chinese population, including MDD patients with or without antidepressant-treatment resistance and healthy controls. Associations of FKBP5 SNPs with MDD susceptibility and treatment response were examined in the whole group of MDD patients, as well as in subgroups stratified by antidepressant treatment resistance, compared with healthy controls.

In total, 181 Han Chinese patients with MDD and 80 healthy controls were recruited. No significant SNP or haplotype associations were observed in the whole patient group. There were nominal significant differences both for the haplotype block with SNPs in strong LD (r
2 > 0.8, P = .040) and haplotype block with SNPs in moderate LD (r
2 > 0.1, P = .017) between the haplotype distributions of patients with antidepressant treatment resistance (n = 81) and healthy controls, but both significances did not survive multiple testing correction. Furthermore, no specific haplotype could be observed causing a significant difference in any combination between all comparisons.

No associations were observed of FKBP5 variants with MDD or antidepressant treatment response. The lack of associations might be due to the relatively small sample size of this study (power ranged from 0.100 to 0.752). A follow-up study will need larger, better phenotyped, and more homogeneous samples to draw a definitive conclusion regarding the involvement of this gene in MDD.
Congenital cytomegalovirus infection and the risk of hearing loss in childhood
Authors: Liu Pei-Hui , Hao Jin-Dou , Li Wei-Yan , Tian Jia , Zhao Jie , Zeng Yong-Mei , Dong Guo-Qing
Published: September 2021

Background:

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection is the most common cause of childhood hearing loss (HL), although the strength of this association remains limited and inconclusive. Thus, the purpose of this study was to summarize evidence regarding the strength of the relationship between cCMV and childhood HL and to determine whether this relationship differs according to patient characteristics.

Methods:

The PubMed, EmBase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies evaluating the relationship between cCMV and HL from inception to September 2019. Odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to calculate the investigated outcomes in a random-effects model. Sensitivity, subgroup, and publication bias analyses were also performed.

Results:

A total of 15 studies involving 235,026 children met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. The summary results indicated that cCMV infection was associated with an increased risk of HL (odds ratio [OR]: 8.45; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.95–18.10; P < .001), irrespective of whether studies reported sensorineural HL (OR: 5.42; 95% CI: 1.98–14.88; P = .001), or did not evaluate HL types among their patients (OR: 11.04; 95% CI: 3.91–31.16; P < .001). However, in studies conducted in the United States (P < 0.001) and published in or after 2000 (P = 0.026), the study populations included <60% males (P < 0.001). Moreover, studies of high quality (P < .001) demonstrated a significantly greater risk of HL with cCMV infection than that in the corresponding subgroups.

Conclusions:

The study results suggest that cCMV infection increases the risk of HL. Further studies are required to investigate the association of cCMV infection with the risk of specific subtypes of HL.
The efficacy and safety of Xianling Gubao capsules in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Wu Jinfeng , Li Wenxu , Ye Baoqing , Yao Yicun
Published: September 2021

Background:

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease, which is the most common type of osteoarthritis. The clinical manifestations are pain, swelling, and dysfunction of the knee joint, which seriously reduces the quality of life of patients and causes a huge social burden. At present, western medicine mainly focuses on symptomatic treatment, such as anti-inflammatory and pain relief, joint cavity injection, joint replacement, etc. The curative effect has certain limitations. Xianling Gubao capsule has some advantages in the treatment of KOA, but it lacks high-quality clinical research to verify it. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Xianling Gubao capsule in the treatment of KOA.

Methods:

A randomized, double-blind, double-simulation, parallel controlled trial design was used to study the efficacy and safety of Xianling Gubao capsules in the treatment of KOA. The patients were randomly divided into a treatment group and the control group according to 1:1. The treatment group: Xianling Gubao capsule + glucosamine hydrochloride capsule simulation agent treatment; the control group: glucosamine hydrochloride capsule + Xianling Gubao capsule simulation agent treatment. Both groups received standard treatment for 8 weeks and followed up for 30 days. And at the same time, pay attention to its efficacy and safety indicators. Observation indicators include: the western Ontario and McMaster universities osteoarthritis index, hospital for special surgery knee score, liver and kidney function, adverse reactions, etc. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 25.0 software.

Discussion:

This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of Xianling Gubao capsule in the treatment of KOA. The results of this experiment will provide evidence support for Xianling Gubao capsule in the treatment of KOA.

Trial registration:

OSF Registration number: DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/ERM9C
Optimal cutoff values for visceral fat volume to predict metabolic syndrome in a Korean population
Authors: Kim Yun-A , Kwak Sang Gyu , Cho Yoon Jeong
Published: September 2021

Previous studies have reported the association between visceral fat and metabolic syndrome (MS); however, just few studies have been conducted to evaluate the relationship between actual visceral fat volume (VFV) and MS. This study aimed to obtain 3 dimensional VFV and subcutaneous fat volume (SFV) using abdominal computed tomography (CT) and determine MS-predictive cutoff values.

A total of 250 individuals, aged 27 to 80 years, who underwent health screening with abdominal CT between November 2019 and May 2020 were included. The subcutaneous (SFA) and visceral (VFA) fat areas were quantified using axial images obtained at the level of the lowest to the highest part of the umbilicus. The SFV and VFV were quantified from the highest level of the liver dome to the pelvic floor on axial CT images. The Aquarius iNtuition software program (TeraRecon, Foster City, CA) was used to calculate the SFA, VFA, SFV, and VFV. Subcutaneous fat mass and visceral fat mass (VFM) were measured using an adipose tissue density of 0.9 g/mL. We used the modified criteria of MS proposed by the Third National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults and waist circumference of ≥90 cm in men and ≥85 cm in women to define MS. Multivariate analysis of covariance was used to compare the fat areas, volumes, and mass according to the presence of MS and sex. Additionally, a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to determine the cutoff values for VFV, SFV, VFM, subcutaneous fat mass, VFA, and SFA associated with MS.

Of the assessed variables, VFV and VFM had the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value for predicting MS in both men and women: 0.811 (95% confidence interval, 0.743–0.868) for men and 0.826 (95% confidence interval, 0.727–0.900) for women. The MS-predictive cutoff values were 4852 cm3 and 4366.8 g for men and 3101 cm3 and 2790.9 g for women, respectively. Further, large, population-based studies are needed to validate these cutoff values.
Simulating influenza epidemics with waning vaccine immunity
Authors: Chen Chun-Miin (Jimmy) , Stanciu Alia C.
Published: September 2021

Observational studies indicate that vaccine-induced immunity can decline over time. However, few researchers have incorporated this kind of waning effect into their virus spread models. In this study, we simulate an influenza epidemic that considers the effects of waning immunity by fitting epidemiological models to CDC secondary historical data aggregated on a weekly basis, and derive the transmission rates at which susceptible individuals become infected over the course of the influenza season. Using a system of differential equations, we define four groups of individuals in a population: susceptible, vaccinated, infected, and recovered. We show that a larger number of initially infected individuals might not only bring the influenza season to an end sooner but also reduce the epidemic size. Moreover, any influenza virus that entails a faster recovery rate does not necessarily lead to a smaller epidemic size. We illustrate how simulation helps in understanding the effects of influenza epidemiological model in the presence of waning influenza vaccine immunity.
Changes in hemostatic factors after kidney transplantation
Authors: Jun Kang Woong , Cho Jinbeom , Kim Mi Hyeong , Hwang Jeong Kye , Park Sun Cheol , Moon In Sung , Kim Ji Il
Published: September 2021

Chronic kidney disease affects hemostasis in complex ways, producing both thrombotic and hemorrhagic diatheses. These changes may impact patient morbidity and mortality pre-transplantation, as well as allograft survival after kidney transplantation (KT). This study was conducted to analyze changes in hemostatic factors in the early post-KT period.

We retrospectively analyzed 676 recipients of kidney allografts from December 2009 to December 2014. Patients receiving plasmapheresis pre- or post-KT, experiencing early allograft failure, or receiving anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents pre- or post-KT were excluded.

Of the 367 included patients, acute (≤1 month) rejection occurred in 4.1% and delayed graft function occurred in 3.3%. Postoperative bleeding complications occurred in 7.9% of patients and thrombotic complications in 3.3%. Pre-transplantation, recipients had below normal hemoglobin, above normal d-dimer and homocysteine levels, and elevated rates of antiphospholipid antibodies. Hemoglobin increased to almost normal by postoperative day (POD) 28 (P 
< .001). d-dimer increased on POD7, 14, and 28, although the values were not significantly different from pre-KT. The pattern of d-dimer changes suggested that they were a nonspecific consequence of major surgery. Homocysteine decreased to normal by POD7 (P 
< .001). The percentage of patients with ≥1 prothrombotic factor was 82.0% pre-KT and only 14.2% on POD28 (P 
< .001).

The most of patients exhibited prothrombotic tendencies, including increased d-dimer and homocysteine, and increased prevalence of antiphospholipid antibodies before transplantation. They also had pre-transplantation anemia, suggesting a concomitant bleeding diathesis. However, most of these abnormal hemostatic factors improved or resolved after KT.
Improving Food Literacy and Access Among Young Adult Cancer Survivors
Authors: Alexander Gina K. , Bashore Lisa , Brooks Vicki
Published: September 2021

Background

The links between nutrition and chronic disease are well established, but consumption of fruits and vegetables is low among young adult childhood cancer survivors (YACS) worldwide. Ensuring equitable access to fresh produce is a significant, persistent public health challenge.

Objective

The purposes of this report are to describe patterns of access to fresh produce, daily intake of fruits/vegetables, and nutrition education preferences among a sample of YACS and to highlight early development of a mentored gardening intervention.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used to assess dietary intake, access to fruits/vegetables, and preferences for nutrition education among 124 YACS through a comprehensive cancer survivorship program in a large pediatric cancer center.

Results

Most participants (71.8%) live more than 10 minutes’ walking distance from a supermarket, and 88.7% do not meet the recommended daily intake of 5 or more servings of fruit and vegetables. A total of 91% of participants express that nutrition is important, and 81.5% desire dietary improvement. Most (78.2%) are likely to use either their computer or cell phone for nutrition content. To establish healthy nutrition habits, many seek the support of a nutritionist (63.7%) or another survivor (41.9%).

Conclusions

Study findings underscore the need for advocacy to support equitable access to fresh produce and technology-enhanced nutrition education among YACS.

Implications for Practice

To improve access to fresh produce and food literacy among YACS, providers can collaborate with community stakeholders to build capacity for sustainable, technology-enhanced, and mentored gardening interventions at the individual, family, and community level.
Improving Emergency Department Use of Safety-Net Antibiotic Prescriptions for Acute Otitis Media
Authors: Daggett Alicia , Wyly Donna R. , Stewart Tanis , Phillips Patty , Newell Cassandra , Lee Brian R. , Burns Alaina , Sharma Nikita , Shastri Nirav , Rodean Jonathan , El Feghaly Rana E.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Acute otitis media (AOM) is the most common reason for pediatric antibiotic prescriptions. The 2013 American Academy of Pediatrics' AOM guidelines recommend observation for nonsevere AOM. Our aim was to increase the percentage safety-net antibiotic prescription (SNAP) offered to patients 6 months of age or older diagnosed with AOM in 2 pediatric emergency departments (EDs) from a baseline of 0.5% to 15% in 20 months.

Methods

This is a quality improvement study at a quaternary pediatric medical center with 2 locations, both with EDs. A random chart review revealed that 27.5% of patients diagnosed with AOM in the ED would qualify for a SNAP, but only 0.5% were offered it. Quality improvement interventions were designed to improve safety-net antibiotic prescribing. Both EDs conducted multiple interventions, including algorithm development, provider education, and electronic medical record aids. The primary outcome measure was the percentage of patients offered a SNAP for AOM.

Results

A total of 8226 children 6 months of age or older were diagnosed with AOM in our 2 EDs during the 20-month intervention period. The percentage offered a SNAP increased at both EDs. One ED had a single shift in the mean to 7.9%, whereas the other had 2 shifts in the mean, an initial shift to 5.1% and a second to 7.3%. Providers consistently used the algorithm and electronic medical record aids.

Conclusions

Safety-net antibiotic prescriptions in conjunction with parent education was effective in reducing the use of immediate antibiotic prescriptions in children with AOM in 2 pediatric EDs. Offering a SNAP can reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics, which in turn may decrease antibiotic-related adverse events and antibiotic resistance.
Point-of-Care Ultrasound Diagnosis of Achilles Tendon Rupture in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Singh Amar , Poteh Ndah , Kim Joshua , Starr Rebecca , Khalil Paul
Published: September 2021

Achilles tendon injuries are common in the adolescent population, particularly in individuals who participate in sports. The diagnosis of Achilles tendon rupture can be missed on clinical examination in 20% to 30% of patients. In the adult literature, there are several case reports describing the diagnosis of Achilles tendon rupture by point-of-care ultrasound POCUS. There is currently no literature examining POCUS for the diagnosis of Achilles tendon rupture in pediatric patients. This case series describes 2 pediatric patients who were diagnosed with Achilles tendon rupture by POCUS.
Streptococcus lutetiensis neonatal meningitis with empyema
Authors: Yu Allen T. , Shapiro Kate , Beneri Christy A. , Wilks-Gallo Lisa S.
Published: September 2021

Streptococcus lutetiensis

has been known to cause sepsis in adults, but only one case regarding neonatal sepsis has been reported internationally, with no sequelae. We report the first case of neonatal bacteremia and meningitis with empyema caused by

S. lutetiensis

in the United States.
Muricauda onchidii sp. nov., isolated from a marine invertebrate from South China Sea, and transfers of Flagellimonas algicola, Flagellimonas pacifica and Flagellimonas maritima to Muricauda algicola comb. nov., Muricauda parva nom. nov. and Muricauda aurantiaca nom. nov., respectively, and emended description of the genus Muricauda
Authors: Liang Jinyou , Yin Qi , Zheng Xiaoli , Wang Yu , Song Zhi-Man , Zhang Yu , Hao Lingyun , Xu Ying
Published: September 2021

An aerobic, Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped and non-motile strain (XY-359T) was isolated from the mouth of a marine invertebrate Onchidium species from the South China Sea. It grew at pH 6.0–8.5 (optimum, pH 7.5), at 15−37 °C (optimum, 30 °C) and in the presence of 0.5–4.5 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 2.5 %). It could not hydrolyse Tweens 20, 40, 60 or 80 and no flexirubin-type pigments were produced. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, one unidentified aminolipid, six unidentified phospholipids and two unidentified polar lipids. The major fatty acids were iso-C17:0 3-OH, iso-C15:1 G and iso-C15:0 3-OH. The respiratory quinone was MK-6. Strain XY-359T showed the greatest degree of 16S rRNA sequence similarity to

Flagellimonas algicola

AsT0115T (96.54 %), followed by

Muricauda flava

DSM 22638T (96.27 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and 31 core genes indicated that strain XY-359T belongs to the genus

Muricauda

. The genome size of strain XY-359T was 4 207 872 bp, with 39.1 mol% of DNA G+C content. The average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between strain XY-359T and

F. algicola

AsT0115T were 74.58 % and 18.5 %, respectively, and those between strain XY-359T and

M. flava

DSM 22638T were 74.2 % and 18.3 %. The combined phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic data suggest that strain XY-359T represents a novel species of the genus

Muricauda

, for which the name Muricauda onchidii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is XY-359T (=MCCC 1K03658T =KCTC 72218T). Moreover, based on the proposal of nesting

Spongiibacterium

and

Flagellimonas

within

Muricauda

by García (Validation List No. 193) and the analyses of phylogenetic trees and average amino acid identities in this study, the transfers of

F. algicola

,

F. pacifica

and

F. maritima

to the genus

Muricauda

as Muricauda algicola comb. nov., Muricauda parva nom. nov. and M. aurantiaca nom. nov., respectively, are proposed, with an emended description of the genus

Muricauda

.
The status Candidatus for uncultured taxa of Bacteria and Archaea: SWOT analysis
Authors: Pallen Mark J.
Published: September 2021

The status Candidatus was introduced to bacterial taxonomy in the 1990s to accommodate uncultured taxa defined by analyses of DNA sequences. Here I review the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) associated with the status Candidatus in the light of a quarter century of use, twinned with recent developments in bacterial taxonomy and sequence-based taxonomic discovery. Despite ambiguities as to its scope, philosophical objections to its use and practical problems in implementation, the status Candidatus has now been applied to over 1000 taxa and has been widely adopted by journals and databases. Although lacking priority under the International Code for Nomenclature of Prokaryotes, many Candidatus names have already achieved de facto standing in the academic literature and in databases via description of a taxon in a peer-reviewed publication, alongside deposition of a genome sequence and there is a clear path to valid publication of such names on culture. Continued and increased use of Candidatus names provides an alternative to the potential upheaval that might accompany creation of a new additional code of nomenclature and provides a ready solution to the urgent challenge of naming many thousands of newly discovered but uncultured species.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is associated with differences in the allograft microbiome, microbial density and inflammation in lung transplantation
Authors: Schneeberger Pierre H.H. , Kevin Zhang Chen Yang , Santilli Jessica , Chen Bo , Xu Wei , Lee Youngho , Wijesinha Zonelle , Reguera-Nuñez Elaine , Yee Noelle , Ahmed Musawir , Boonstra Kristen , Ramendra Rayoun , Frankel Courtney W. , Palmer Scott M. , Todd Jamie L. , Martinu Tereza , Coburn Bryan
Published: September 2021

Rationale

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may affect lung allograft inflammation and function through its effects on allograft microbial community composition in lung transplant recipients.

Objectives

Our objective was to compare the allograft microbiota in lung transplant recipients with or without clinically diagnosed GERD in the first post-transplant year, and assess associations between GERD, allograft microbiota, inflammation and acute and chronic lung allograft dysfunction (ALAD/CLAD).

Methods

268 bronchoalveolar lavage samples were collected from 75 lung transplant recipients at a single transplant centre every 3 months post-transplant for 1 year. Ten transplant recipients from a separate transplant centre provided samples pre/post-anti-reflux Nissen fundoplication surgery. Microbial community composition and density were measured using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and qPCR, respectively and inflammatory markers and bile acids were quantified.

Measurements and Main Results

We observed three community composition profiles (labelled community state types, CSTs 1-3). Transplant recipients with GERD were more likely to have CST1, characterized by high bacterial density and relative abundance of the oropharyngeal colonizing genera Prevotella and Veillonella. GERD was associated with more frequent transition to CST1. CST1 was associated with lower per-bacteria inflammatory cytokine levels than the pathogen-dominated CST3. Time-dependant models revealed associations between CST3 and development of ALAD/CLAD. Nissen fundoplication decreased bacterial load and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion

GERD was associated with a high bacterial density, Prevotella/Veillonella dominated CST1. CST3, but not CST1 or GERD, was associated with inflammation and early development of ALAD/CLAD. Nissen fundoplication was associated with decreases in microbial density in BALF samples, especially the CST1-specific genus, Prevotella.
Genetic and environmental correlations between complex phenotypes differ by race/ethnicity and sex
Authors: Elgart Michael , Goodman Matthew O. , Isasi Carmen , Chen Han , de Vries Paul S. , Xu Huichun , Manichaikul Ani W , Guo Xiuqing , Franceschini Nora , Psaty Bruce M. , Rich Stephen S. , Rotter Jerome I. , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Fornage Myriam , Correa Adolfo , Heard-Costa Nancy L. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Hernandez Ryan , Kaplan Robert C. , Redline Susan ,   the Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) Consortium, Sofer Tamar
Published: September 2021

We developed novel closed-form estimators of genetic and environmental correlation coefficients. We applied them to estimate over 4,000 genetic and environmental correlations between multiple phenotypes in a diverse sample from the Trans-Omics in Precision Medicine (TOPMed) program. We found substantial differences in heritabilities, genetic, and environmental correlations of multiple phenotypes and phenotype-pairs between Black, Hispanic/Latino and White populations as well as between sexes. Finally, we quantified genetic and environmental correlations between phenotypic domains, each characterized by multiple phenotypes. Altogether we provide a novel, in-depth framework for examining relations among complex human phenotypes and their determinants.
A simple, sensitive and quantitative FACS-based test for SARS-CoV-2 serology in humans and animals
Authors: Ribes Agnès Maurel , Bessière Pierre , Guéry Jean Charles , Joly Featherstone Eloïse , Bruel Timothée , Robinot Remy , Schwartz Olivier , Volmer Romain , Abravanel Florence , Izopet Jacques , Joly Etienne
Published: September 2021

Serological tests are important for understanding the physiopathology and following the evolution of the Covid-19 pandemic. Assays based on flow cytometry (FACS) of tissue culture cells expressing the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 have repeatedly proven to perform slightly better than the plate-based assays ELISA and CLIA (chemiluminescent immuno-assay), and markedly better than lateral flow immuno-assays (LFIA).

Here, we describe an optimized and very simple FACS assay based on staining a mix of two Jurkat cell lines, expressing either high levels of the S protein (Jurkat-S) or a fluorescent protein (Jurkat-R expressing m-Cherry, or Jurkat-G, expressing GFP, which serve as an internal negative control). We show that the Jurkat-S&R-flow test has a much broader dynamic range than a commercial ELISA test and performs at least as well in terms of sensitivity and specificity. Also, it is more sensitive and quantitative than the hemagglutination-based test HAT, which we described recently. The Jurkat-flow test requires only a few microliters of blood; thus, it can be used to quantify various Ig isotypes in capillary blood collected from a finger prick. It can be used also to evaluate serological responses in mice, hamsters, cats and dogs. Whilst the Jurkat-flow test is ill-suited and not intended for clinical use, it offers a very attractive solution for laboratories with access to tissue culture and flow cytometry who want to monitor serological responses in humans or in animals, and how these relate to susceptibility to infection, or re-infection, by the virus, and to protection against Covid-19.

Note

This manuscript has been refereedby Review Commons, and modified thanks to the comments and suggestions from two referees. Those comments, and our replies, are provided at the end of the manuscript’s pdf, and can also be accessed by clicking on the box with a little green number found just above the “Abstract “ tab in the medRXiv window.
Four-week forecasts of COVID-19 epidemic trajectories in South Africa, Chile, Peru and Brazil: a model evaluation
Authors: Delva Wim , Dominic Emanuel M. , Beauclair Roxanne , Ouifki Rachid , Kroon Matthys , Volmink Heinrich , Dorkin Elton
Published: September 2021

Introduction

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, epidemiological models have been used in a number of ways to aid governments and organizations in efficient planning of resources and decision making. These models have elucidated important epidemiological transmission parameters, in addition to making short-term projections.

Methods

We constructed a compartmental mathematical model for the transmission, detection and prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infections for regions where Anglo American has mining operations. We fitted the model to publicly available data and used it to make short-term projections. Finally, we evaluated how the model performed by comparing short-term projections to actual confirmed cases, retrospectively.

Findings

The average forecast errors for four-week-ahead projections ranged between 1% and 8% in all the countries and regions considered in this study. All but one region had more than 75% of the true values falling within the range of four-week-ahead projections. The quality of the projections improved with time as expected due to increased historical data.

Conclusion

Our model produced four-week forecasts with a sufficiently high level of accuracy to guide operational and strategic planning for business continuity and COVID-19 responses in Anglo American mining sites.
Analysis of Respiratory Kinematics: a method to characterize breaths from motion signals
Authors: Ashe William B. , Innis Sarah E. , Shanno Julia N. , Hochheimer Camille J. , Williams Ronald D. , Ratcliffe Sarah J. , Moorman J. Randall , Gadrey Shrirang M.
Published: September 2021

Rationale

Breathing motion (respiratory kinematics) can be characterized by the interval and depth of each breath, and by magnitude-synchrony relationships between locations. Such characteristics and their breath-by-breath variability might be useful indicators of respiratory health.

Objectives

To enable breath-by-breath characterization of respiratory kinematics, we developed a method to detect breaths using motion sensor signals.

Methods

In 34 volunteers who underwent maximal exercise testing, we used 8 motion sensors to record upper rib, lower rib and abdominal kinematics at 3 exercise stages (rest, lactate threshold and exhaustion). We recorded volumetric air flow signals using clinical exercise laboratory equipment and synchronized them with kinematic signals. Using instantaneous phase landmarks from the analytic representation of kinematic and flow signals, we identified individual breaths and derived respiratory rate signals at 1Hz. To evaluate the fidelity of kinematics-derived respiratory rate signals, we calculated their cross-correlation with the flow-derived respiratory rate signals. To identify coupling between kinematics and flow, we calculated the Shannon entropy of the relative frequency with which kinematic phase landmarks were distributed over the phase of the flow cycle.

Measurements and Main Results

We found good agreement in the kinematics-derived and flow-derived respiratory rate signals, with cross-correlation coefficients as high as 0.94. In some individuals, the kinematics and flow were significantly coupled (Shannon entropy < 2) but the relationship varied within (by exercise stage) and between individuals. The final result was that the phase landmarks from the kinematic signal were uniformly distributed over the phase of the air flow signals (Shannon entropy close to the theoretical maximum of 3.32).

Conclusions

The Analysis of Respiratory Kinematics method can yield highly resolved respiratory rate signals by separating individual breaths. This method will facilitate characterization of clinically significant breathing motion patterns on a breath-by-breath basis. The relationship between respiratory kinematics and flow is much more complex than expected, varying between and within individuals.
Relationship between eye movements and freezing of gait during turning in individuals with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Wang Ying , van Wanrooij Marc M. , Emaus Rowena , Nonneke Jorik , Cohen Michael X , Cockx Helena , Janssen Sabine , Helmich Rick C. , van Wezel Richard
Published: September 2021

Background

Individuals with Parkinson’s disease can experience freezing of gait: “a sudden, brief episode of an inability to move their feet despite the intention to walk”. Since turning is the most sensitive condition to provoke freezing-of-gait episodes, and the eyes typically lead turning, we hypothesize that disturbances in saccadic eye movements are related to freezing-of-gait episodes.

Objectives

This study explores the relationship between freezing-of-gait episodes and saccadic eye movements for gaze shift and gaze stabilization during turning.

Methods

We analyzed 277 freezing-of-gait episodes provoked among 17 individuals with Parkinson’s disease during two conditions: self-selected speed and rapid speed 180-degree turns in alternating directions. Eye movements acquired from electrooculography signals were characterized by the average position of gaze, the amplitude of gaze shifts, and the speed of gaze stabilization. We analyzed these variables before and during freezing-of-gait episodes occurring at the different phase angles of a turn.

Results

Significant off-track changes of the gaze position were observed almost one 180-degree-turn time before freezing-of-gait episodes. In addition, the speed of gaze stabilization significantly decreased during freezing-of-gait episodes.

Conclusions

We argue that off-track changes of the gaze position could be a predictor of freezing-of-gait episodes due to continued failure in movement-error correction or an insufficient preparation for eye-to-foot coordination during turning. The decline in the speed of gaze stabilization is large during freezing-of- gait episodes given the slowness or stop of body turning. We argue that this could be evidence for a healthy compensatory system in individuals with freezing-of-gait.
Persistence of child marriage in rural Bangladesh and impact on maternal and perinatal health: findings from a health and demographic surveillance system
Authors: Lee Kyu Han , Chowdhury Atique I. , Rahman Qazi S. , Cunningham Solveig A. , Parveen Shahana , Bari Sanwarul , Arifeen Shams E. , Gurley Emily S.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To describe temporal trends in child marriage between 1990 and 2019 in a rural sub-district of Bangladesh and characterize relationships between age, time to pregnancy, complications during delivery, and perinatal mortality.

Design

Health and demographic surveillance system.

Setting

Baliakandi sub-district, Bangladesh.

Participants

56,155 female residents.

Main outcome measures

Annual proportion of marriages to female residents under 18 years of age, time between first marriage and pregnancy, proportion of births with complications during delivery, and odds of perinatal mortality.

Results

Between 1990 and 2010, the proportion of marriages to female residents under 18 years of age decreased from 71% to 57%. Most notably, marriages to females aged 10 to 12 years dropped from 22% of all marriages to 3%. In 2019, 53% of all marriages were to females under 18 years. The estimated time between first marriage and pregnancy did not differ by female age at marriage. By 365 days after marriage, the cumulative incidence of pregnancy was approximately 50% for each age group. Adolescent girls were more likely to experience complications during delivery with at least one complication reported for 36% of mothers aged 13 to 15 years, 32% of mothers aged 16 to 17 years, and 23% of mothers aged 18 to 34 years (χ2 test, P<0.001). Compared to adults, births among females aged 13 to 15 years were more likely to result in stillbirths (odds ratio 2.23, 95% confidence interval 1.19 to 4.16) and births among females 16-17 years were more likely to result in early neonatal deaths (odds ratio 1.57, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 2.42).

Conclusions

Child marriage persists in Baliakandi. Over half of all marriages were to child brides and only minor reductions were seen over the past decade. Pregnancies were common among adolescent girls with no evidence of delayed pregnancy after marriage. Compared to adults, adolescents were more likely to experience complications during delivery and perinatal death. Preventing child marriage has substantial social and health benefits for girls and, by doing so, will also contribute to Bangladesh’s commitment to reduce child mortality.
Perceptions and experiences of rare diseases among General Practitioners: an exploratory study
Authors: McMullan Julie , Crowe Ashleen L. , McClenaghan Taylor , McAneney Helen , McKnight Amy Jayne
Published: September 2021

Background

General Practitioners (GPs) play an important role in healthcare delivery for people living with a rare disease and their families. Managing long-term multisystem diseases that often have no cure and sub-optimal treatment options can be extremely challenging.

Aim

To gain an understanding of GP’s perception and experience of rare diseases.

Design and Setting

This is an exploratory study with GPs from Northern Ireland.

Method

An online survey was hosted within SmartSurvey, available for 6 weeks in early 2019, which queried: GPs career to date, interactions with rare disease patients, challenges faced, the exchange of information with patients, priorities for the future, support for such patients and finally training.

Results

Sixty-six GPs engaged with the survey with 15 completing the survey. Many frustrations were mentioned by GPs when caring for such patients including finding a diagnosis, lack of specialist services and lack of awareness. Seventy-nine percent of GPs responding did not feel adequately trained to care for patients with a rare disease, while 93% were interested in undertaking training to enable them to improve their care for rare disease patients.

Conclusion

More effective and convenient ‘rare disease’ focused training programs would help GPs manage patients with rare diseases. Enabling efficient, effective communication between GPs and individual medical specialists is of paramount importance to give GPs access to information on how to effectively manage patients living with a rare disease. Awareness should be raised for effective support mechanisms such as charities and support groups for rare disease patients.

How this fits in

Many GPs have reported feeling overwhelmed when caring for rare disease patients. Their lack of knowledge forces them to turn to the internet but finding reliable information is often difficult. This study acknowledges the difficult task GPs face when caring for this population and highlights the need for training development, improved communication, and better awareness.