bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with hepatitis B and C among adults in Buea, Cameroon: A community‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Tazinkeng Nkengeh N. , Teuwafeu Denis G. , Asombang Akwi W. , Agbor Valirie N. , Bloom Seth M. , Nkhoma Alick N. , Mohareb Amir M. , Luma Henry N.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Viral hepatitis is a major cause of death in Africa. A paucity of community‐based studies on the determinants of viral hepatitis in Africa impedes efforts to appropriately target prevention, screening, and treatment interventions. We assessed factors associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in a semi‐urban health district in Cameroon.

Methods

We conducted a community‐based, cross‐sectional study from 28 February to 15 May 2021 in the Buea Health District in Buea, Cameroon. We recruited a sample of consenting individuals aged over 15 years old. Participants were surveyed for factors associated with HBV/HCV and were screened for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and HCV antibody using rapid point‐of‐care tests. We performed univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify factors associated with HBsAg and HCV seropositivity.

Results

We screened 1144 participants (66% female) with a median age of 30 years (IQR: 23–44). HBsAg prevalence was 5.7% (95%CI: 4.5–7.2%) and HCV seropositivity was 1.9% (95%CI: 1.3–2.9%). Three people (0.3%) were seropositive for both HBsAg and HCV antibody. Male sex (adjusted OR [aOR] = 2.31; 95%CI: 1.28–4.18) and a history of traditional operation or scarification (aOR = 2.87; 95%CI: 1.67–4.92) were associated with HBsAg. None of the assessed factors was significantly associated with HCV antibody.

Conclusion

Men and participants with a history of traditional operation and scarification had higher odds of HBsAg. We did not observe any associations with HCV seropositivity. Prevention and screening efforts among adults in this setting should prioritize men and those with a history of traditional operation and scarification.
Sublethal effects of a pyrethroid insecticide on cuticle thickness, wing size and shape in the main vector Triatoma infestans
Authors: Nattero Julieta , Mougabure‐Cueto Gastón , Gürtler Ricardo E.
Published: August 2022

Exposure to sublethal doses of insecticide may affect biological traits in triatomines. We investigated the effects of toxicological phenotype (pyrethroid resistance status) and exposure to sublethal doses of deltamethrin on two traits of Triatoma infestans Klug (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) using a phenotypic plasticity experimental design. First‐instar nymphs from 14 and 10 full‐sib families from pyrethroid‐susceptible and pyrethroid‐resistant populations, respectively, were used. For the susceptible population, we treated first instars topically with acetone (control) or deltamethrin (treatment) once. For the resistant population, instars were treated once, twice and three times as first, third or fifth‐instar nymphs, respectively. We measured cuticle thickness, wing size and wing shape of 484 emerging adults, and tested for treatment effects using mixed ANOVA and MANOVA models. Toxicological phenotype, exposure to deltamethrin and full‐sib family exerted significant effects on cuticle thickness, wing size and wing shape. Adult triatomines previously treated with deltamethrin developed significantly thicker cuticles than control triatomines only in the resistant population and significantly bigger wings in both populations. Mean cuticle thickness and wing size increased with increasing exposures to deltamethrin. Exposure to sublethal doses of deltamethrin generated morphological modifications that may affect insect survival and flight dispersal, and hence may have evolutionary and epidemiological consequences.
Symmetry vs coloration in flowers: a tight genetic link through evolutionary co‐option
Authors: Zhang Teng
Published: August 2022

This article is a Commentary on Zhang et al. (2022), 236: 1197–1211.
Comparative cryogenic extraction rehydration experiments reveal isotope fractionation during root water uptake in Gramineae
Authors: Jiang Hanbing , Gu Huijie , Chen Hui , Sun Hongyong , Zhang Xiying , Liu Xiuwei
Published: August 2022

Determining whether isotope fractionation occurs during root water uptake is a prerequisite for using stem or xylem water isotopes to trace water sources. However, it is unclear whether isotope fractionation occurs during root water uptake in gramineous crops.

We conducted prevalidation experiments to estimate the isotope measurement bias associated with cryogenic vacuum distillation (CVD). Next, we assessed isotope fractionation during root water uptake in two common agronomic crops, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and maize (Zea mays L.), under flooding after postdrought stress conditions.

Cryogenic vacuum distillation caused significant depletion of 2H but negligible effects on 18O for both soil and stem water. Surprisingly CVD caused depletion of 2H and enrichment of 18O in root water. Stem and root water δ18O were more than soil water δ18O, even considering the uncertainty of CVD. Soil water 18O was depleted compared with irrigation water 18O in the pots with plants but enriched relative to irrigation water 18O in the pots without plants.

These results indicate that isotope fractionation occurred during wheat and maize root water uptake after full irrigation and led to a heavy isotope enrichment in stem water. Therefore, the xylem/stem water isotope approach widely used to trace water sources should be carefully evaluated.
Are fine roots ‘leaves underground' in terms of allometry? A test in a tropical forest successional series in southwest China
Authors: Guo Zijian , Miao Wenhao , Lyu Yueming , Sun Han , Fan Dayong , Wang Xiangping
Published: August 2022

Fine roots have been hypothesized to be ‘leaves underground' in terms of vascular network, but this hypothesis has rarely been tested within the framework of metabolic scaling theory (MST). We measured average fine‐root (diameter < 1 mm) mass (M), surface area (A), volume (V), diameter (D) and length (L) for 216 soil cores from 24 plots across four successional stages in tropical forests of Xishuangbanna (southwest China), and examined eight scaling relationships between these variables at the individual root scale. We tested whether fine‐root allometries conformed to MST's model for leaf (MSTl) or model (MSTw) for woody organs (e.g. trunk). We also assessed the relative effects of environmental factors, tree size, species composition and diversity, and stand structural factors on allometric relationships using structural equation models (SEMs). Our results showed that: 1) fine‐root scaling exponents rarely conformed to MSTl's predictions. 2) The scaling exponents between fine‐root M, A, V and D all conformed to MSTw's predictions in later successional forests, but showed greater deviation towards early successional stage. 3) The scaling exponents associated with fine‐root length differed markedly from MSTw's predictions. 4) Changes of some fine‐root scaling exponents across successional stage were mainly affected by tree size or soil fertility, and species composition affected allometry only indirectly via tree size. Our results suggested that the allometries of individual fine roots largely conform to the scaling rules governing woody organs instead of leaves, probably because leaves are nearly two‐dimensional objects while the other two are three‐dimensional. We showed that MSTwcan well predict some fine‐root allometries in later successional forests, suggesting great potential of utilizing MSTwto better estimate fine‐root biomass and productivity. However, the present MSTwstill needs to be improved for predicting the scaling relationships concerning fine‐root length, and also for better quantifying allometric exponents in earlier successional forests.
Treatment of protoscoleces with gamma radiation: Potential immunoprotective effect against experimental murine echinococcosis
Authors: Hadj Rabia Samia , Debib Aicha , Mezaguer Meriem , Yefsah Rabah , Soufli Imene , Hamrioui Bousaad , Touil‐Boukoffa Chafia , Baz Ahsene , Giaimis Jean , Mameri Saâdia
Published: August 2022

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is one of the most important zoonotic diseases with a worldwide distribution. It is caused by the larval stage of the dog tapeworm “Echinococcus granulosussensu lato” and constitutes a major economic and public health problem in several countries. Protoscoleces are one component of this larval stage that can interact with both definitive and intermediate hosts. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential role of using a radio‐attenuated form of these protoscoleces for immunoprophylaxis against experimental murine echinococcosis. However, mice were immunized twice at 15‐day intervals with gamma (γ) irradiated protoscoleces at doses of 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.4 kGy then challenged with the intact parasites. Macroscopic and histological analyses with cytokine measurements were performed in order to estimate the number and diameter of cysts, microscopic changes and cytokine profile. An improvement in protection against the challenge dose was observed with increasing dose, giving percentages of 47.7, 49, 55.23 and 70.6%, for the 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.4 kGy‐groups respectively. These data suggest that immunization with radio‐attenuated protoscoleces may induce satisfactory protective immunity by reducing successfully the formation of cysts, caused by challenge infection.
Feasibility and usability of a non‐immersive virtual reality tele‐cognitive app in cognitive rehabilitation of patients affected by Parkinson's disease
Authors: Maggio Maria Grazia , Luca Antonina , D'Agate Concetta , Italia Marta , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore , Nicoletti Alessandra
Published: August 2022

Background

Cognitive impairment is one of the most common non‐motor features of Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability/usability of a protocol using a non‐immersive virtual reality tele‐cognitive app, performed remotely in a sample of Italian patients with PD.

Methods

Non‐demented patients with mild PD were included in the study. Patients performed the cognitive rehabilitation in a remote way, at home (three training sessions lasting 20 min/week for 6 weeks) using the NeuroNation app, downloaded for free on the patients' smartphones. The usability and feasibility of the tele‐cognitive rehabilitation program were assessed with the System Usability Scale (SUS) and the Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS).

Results

Sixteen patients (9 men and 7 women; mean age 58.4 ± 8.3 years; mean disease duration 4.6 ± 2.1 years) were included in the study. At the end of the study, the mean SUS was 83.4 ± 11.5. The GAS score recorded at the end of the study (65.6 ± 4.2) was significantly higher than at baseline (38.5 ± 2.4; P‐value <0.001).

Conclusion

In our sample, good feasibility and usability were observed for a 6‐week cognitive rehabilitation protocol based on the non‐immersive virtual reality tele‐cognitive app NeuroNation. Our data support the usefulness of cognitive rehabilitation performed in a remote way in PD patients.
Exogenous L‐arginine administration improves uterine vascular perfusion, uteroplacental thickness, steroid concentrations and nitric oxide levels in pregnant buffaloes under subtropical conditions
Authors: El‐Sherbiny Hossam R. , Samir Haney , El‐Shalofy Amr S. , Abdelnaby Elshymaa A.
Published: August 2022

Heat stress (HS) during pregnancy adversely affects uterine vascular perfusion and foetal development. L‐arginine (L‐Arg), a nitric oxide (NO) precursor, has been proven to enhance an organ's vascular perfusion. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effect of L‐Arg administration on the pregnant buffaloes' uterine haemodynamics and uteroplacental thickness under environmental HS conditions. For this purpose, pluriparous (n = 12) HS‐pregnant buffaloes (mid‐gestation, 180–190 days; temperature humidity index >85) were haphazardly assigned into two groups, either administered a single intravenous (IV) bolus of 5 mg/kg BW of L‐Arg Hcl (n = 6; ARG) or received normal saline (0.9%; IV; 25 ml) that served as a control group (n = 6; CON). Combined uteroplacental thickness (CUPT, mm), middle uterine arteries' (MUA) diameter (mm) and uterine Doppler haemodynamics (ipsilateral and contralateral to the pregnant horn) were examined utilizing B‐mode and colour Doppler ultrasonography, respectively. The serum levels of progesterone (P4), estradiol 17β (E2), nitric oxide (NO) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assayed using commercial kits. The experimental time points were − 1, 0, 2, 4, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h post‐L‐Arg administration. The ARG group showed higher (p < .05) CUPT and MUA diameter values starting at 24 h post‐treatment and onward than the control buffalo cows. In addition, there were improvements (p < .05) in the blood flow parameters in the ipsilateral MUA after L‐Arg treatment evidenced by lower values of pulsatility and resistive indices starting at 48 and 4 h, respectively and onward, and higher values of peak systolic velocity, coloured areas towards the pregnant uterine horn (both 24–72 h). Increases in the NO levels were found during the period between 4 and 120 h in the ARG group compared to the CON group. Moreover, significant increases in the E2 and P4 means were noted in the ARG group, especially at 24 h onward, respectively compared to the CON group. Concerning the TAC status, neither the administration nor the hours affected serum TAC levels in the HS pregnant buffaloes (CON and ARG). In conclusion, L‐Arg administration improved uteroplacental thickness and enhanced uterine haemodynamics, NO levels, and steroids production in mid‐pregnant buffalo cows under environmental heat stress conditions which could improve foetal growth and development.
Estimating the Number of Persons with HIV in Jails Via Web Scraping and Record Linkage
Authors: Shook-Sa Bonnie E. , Hudgens Michael G. , Kavee Andrew L. , Rosen David L.
Published: August 2022

This paper presents methods to estimate the number of persons with HIV in North Carolina jails by applying finite population inferential approaches to data collected using web scraping and record linkage techniques. Administrative data are linked with web-scraped rosters of incarcerated persons in a non-random subset of counties. Outcome regression and calibration weighting are adapted for state-level estimation. Methods are compared in simulations and are applied to data from the US state of North Carolina. Outcome regression yielded more precise inference and allowed for county-level estimates, an important study objective, while calibration weighting exhibited double robustness under misspecification of the outcome or weight model.
Electricity outages and residential fires: Evidence from Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Lawson Kerianne
Published: August 2022

At the end of 2014, South Africa was unexpectedly required to implement load shedding, which is electricity blackouts aimed at relieving strain on the electrical grid. Soon after, it was revealed that the nationally owned power company, Eskom, had been neglecting infrastructure maintenance and that the people should expect load shedding to continue for many more years. The article considers the prevalence of fires as a potential consequence of load shedding. In addition to power surging that increases fire risk, this article investigates changes in household energy consumption as a mechanism by which load shedding would increase house fires. After load shedding started, there is evidence that households substituted away from using electricity to alternative energy sources for cooking and lighting that have increased fire risks. Using a novel data set, this article exploits plausibly exogenous variation in the timing and spacing of load shedding, estimates show that likelihood of residential fires increases when load shedding occurs in an area.
Effect of helping suicidal people using text messaging: An evaluation of effects and best practices of the Canadian suicide prevention Service's text helpline
Authors: Côté Louis‐Philippe , Mishara Brian L.
Published: August 2022

Background

Empirical research on best practices in suicide prevention text intervention is scarce. We present analyses of exchanges concerning suicide on the Canadian Suicide Prevention Service (CSPS) text helpline.

Objective

To describe the users of the CSPS text service, explore the perceived impact of the service, and identify intervention characteristics associated with a greater likelihood of positive or negative effects of the exchanges.

Methods

We analyzed data from 112 transcripts using quantitative content analysis, counselor assessments of the calls, and responses by callers to pre‐call questionnaires.

Results

Counselors infrequently conducted a complete suicide risk assessment, but almost always thoroughly explored resources and discussed possible solutions to callers' problems. An operational action plan was rarely developed. Only one technique, reinforcing a strength or a positive action of the caller, was a significant predictor of positive effects of the call. The number of words exchanged during the intervention was positively correlated with the completeness of explorations of resources and solutions and the development of an action plan.

Conclusions

High‐quality effective interventions can be delivered via text messages. Using reinforcement of strengths and encouraging longer calls is recommended. Intervention effects were comparable to those reported in studies of telephone and chat services.
Identification of a DRB1*04:07–DRB4*01:03:01:02N haplotype in a native American individual
Authors: Hod‐Dvorai Reut , Schiller Jennifer J. , Riddick Mary C. , Gallay Brian
Published: August 2022

The DRB4*01:03:01:02N null allele is predominantly associated with the HLA‐DRB1*07–DQB1*03:03 haplotype. Several recent reports demonstrated a less frequent association of DRB4*01:03:01:02N with DRB1*04 carrying haplotypes in different populations. The ability to identify the presence of null alleles is extremely important in the setting of both solid organ transplants and hematopoietic cell transplants, and characterization of haplotypes carrying null alleles is crucial. In this paper, we report for the first time, an association of DRB4*01:03:01:02N null allele with a DRB1*04:07–DQB1*03:02 haplotype.
The novel HLA‐C*03:04:99 allele, identified by sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: He Guang‐cui , Zheng Zhong‐zheng , Du Ke‐ming , An Lin , Yi Hai
Published: August 2022

HLA‐C*03:04:99 differs from HLA‐C*03:04:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 5.
Understanding authority gradient: tips for speaking up for patient safety (and how to enhance the listening response)
Authors: Sekar Hashviniya , Dharmasena Dhanuson , Gunasekara Ayanthi , Nauta Maud , Sivashanmugarajan Viswapriya , Yoong Wai
Published: August 2022

Key content

Up to one‐third of healthcare personnel still have concerns about speaking up when they notice potential errors.

Cultivation of a shallow authority gradient encourages trainees to clarify instructions, challenge decisions and voice concerns, thereby reducing ambiguity and potential errors.

Senior doctors should support junior team members who raise concerns by encouraging a working environment that is effective and safe.

Aviation, rail and maritime industries recognise that steep authority gradients can lead to reluctance to escalate, resulting in near misses and fatalities.

Learning objectives

To understand the difference between hierarchy and authority gradient.

To learn how graded assertiveness techniques such as ‘advocacy and inquiry’, PACE and CUSS can be used as non‐confrontational tools to speak up.

To understand that senior doctors should practise active listening and have insight into their own openness when challenged.
Epidemiology of severe trauma in cats: An ACVECC VetCOT registry study
Authors: Lee Jack A. , Huang Chien‐Min , Hall Kelly E.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To identify demographic information, epidemiological factors, and clinical abnormalities that differentiate cats with severe trauma, defined as an Animal Trauma Triage Score (ATTS) ≥3 from those with mild injury (ATTS 0–2).

Design

Multicenter observational study utilizing data from the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC) Veterinary Committee on Trauma (VetCOT) registry.

Setting

ACVECC VetCOT Veterinary Trauma Centers.

Animals

A total of 3859 cats with trauma entered into the ACVECC VetCOT registry between April 1, 2017 and December 31, 2019.

Interventions

None

Measurements and Main Results

Cats were categorized by ATTS 0–2 (mild, 65.1%) and ≥3 (severe, 34.9%). There was no age difference between categories. Male animals, particularly intact animals, were overrepresented. Blunt trauma was more common than penetrating, with blunt trauma and a combination of blunt and penetrating trauma being more common in the severe trauma group. While 96.6% of cats with ATTS 0–2 survived to discharge, only 58.5% with ATTS ≥3 survived. Only 46.8% of cats with severe trauma had a point‐of‐care ultrasound performed, of which 8.9% had free abdominal fluid noted. Hospitalization and surgical procedures were more common in the severe trauma group. Transfusions occurred more frequently in the severe trauma group but only in 4.1% of these cats. Other than ionized calcium, all recorded clinicopathological data (plasma lactate, base excess, PCV, total plasma protein, blood glucose) differed between groups.

Conclusion

Feline trauma patients with an ATTS ≥3 commonly present to Veterinary Trauma Centers and have decreased survival to discharge compared to patients with ATTS 0–2. Differences exist between these groups, including an increased frequency of blunt force trauma (particularly vehicular trauma), head and spinal trauma, and certain clinicopathological changes in the ATTS ≥3 population. Relatively low incidences of point‐of‐care ultrasound evaluation and transfusions merit further investigation.
Multistate reptile‐ and amphibian‐associated salmonellosis outbreaks in humans, United States, 2009–2018
Authors: Waltenburg Michelle A. , Perez Ariana , Salah Zainab , Karp Beth E. , Whichard Jean , Tolar Beth , Gollarza Lauren , Koski Lia , Blackstock Anna , Basler Colin , Nichols Megin
Published: August 2022

Non‐typhoidal Salmonella cause an estimated 1.4 million human illnesses, 26,000 hospitalizations and 400 deaths annually in the United States. Approximately 11% of these infections are attributed to animal contact. Reptiles and amphibians are known sources of salmonellosis; young children (aged <5 years) are disproportionately affected by reptile‐ and amphibian‐associated salmonellosis (RAAS) outbreaks. We describe multistate RAAS outbreaks to characterize illnesses and inform prevention efforts. RAAS outbreaks were defined as ≥2 culture‐confirmed human Salmonella infections with similar pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis patterns and epidemiologic, laboratory or traceback evidence linking them to a common reptile/amphibian exposure. Data sources included the Animal Contact Outbreak Surveillance System; CDC Outbreak Response and Prevention Branch's outbreak management database; PulseNet, the national molecular subtyping network for foodborne disease surveillance in the United States; and the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System. Twenty‐six RAAS outbreaks were reported during 2009–2018, resulting in 1465 illnesses and 306 hospitalizations. The outbreaks were associated with turtles (19), lizards (5), snakes (1) and frogs (1). Sixteen (61.5%) outbreaks were linked to small turtles (<4 inches), resulting in 914 illnesses. Forty‐nine percent of outbreak‐associated patients were aged <5 years. Of 362 patients/caregivers interviewed, 111 (30.7%) were aware that reptiles/amphibians can carry Salmonella. Among 267 patient isolates with antimicrobial susceptibility information, 20 (7.5%) were non‐susceptible to ≥1 antibiotic used to treat human salmonellosis. RAAS outbreaks result in considerable morbidity, particularly among young children. Illnesses linked to small turtles are preventable through education, targeted outreach to caregivers and paediatricians, and when appropriate, enforcement. Historically, individual states and jurisdictions have enforced existing or promulgated new authorities to address outbreaks. Preventing future RAAS outbreaks requires addressing challenges related to the illegal sale/distribution of small turtles; and for legal reptile sales, providing information on RAAS risk to consumers at point of sale to support informed pet ownership decisions.
Changes in cellular Ca2+ and Na+ regulation during the progression towards heart failure
Authors: MacLeod Kenneth T.
Published: August 2022

In adapting to disease and loss of tissue, the heart shows great phenotypic plasticity that involves changes to its structure, composition and electrophysiology. Together with parallel whole body cardiovascular adaptations, the initial decline in cardiac function resulting from the insult is compensated. However, in the long term, the heart muscle begins to fail and patients with this condition have a very poor prognosis, with many dying from disturbances of rhythm. The surviving myocytes of these hearts gain Na+, which is positively inotropic because of alterations to Ca2+ fluxes mediated by the Na+/Ca2+ exchange, but compromises Ca2+‐dependent energy metabolism in mitochondria. Uptake of Ca2+ into the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) is reduced because of diminished function of SR Ca2+ ATPases. The result of increased Ca2+ influx and reduced SR Ca2+ uptake is an increase in the diastolic cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, which promotes spontaneous SR Ca2+ release and induces delayed afterdepolarisations. Action potential duration prolongs because of increased late Na+ current and changes in expression and function of other ion channels and transporters increasing the probability of the formation of early afterdepolarisations. There is a reduction in T‐tubule density and so the normal spatial arrangements required for efficient excitation–contraction coupling are compromised and lead to temporal delays in Ca2+ release from the SR. Therefore, the structural and electrophysiological responses that occur to provide compensation do so at the expense of (1) increasing the likelihood of arrhythmogenesis; (2) activating hypertrophic, apoptotic and Ca2+ signalling pathways; and (3) decreasing the efficiency of SR Ca2+ release.

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Large Amplitude Free and Forced Vibrations of Functionally Graded Timoshenko Beams Using Coupled Displacement Field Method
Authors: Sathujoda Prabhakar , Obalareddy Bharath , Meera Saheb K.
Published: August 2022

The large amplitude vibrations of functionally graded (FG) beams consisting of metal rich layers at the bottom, ceramic rich layers at the top, and a concentrated mass at the mid-span have been studied using coupled displacement field method. Unlike traditional methods, the coupled displacement field method reduces the 2n undetermined coefficients problem, one each for total rotation and transverse displacement distribution of the beam at n modes, to n undetermined coefficients using a coupling equation obtained from the minimization of potential energy principle. A suitable admissible function having single undetermined coefficient has been assumed for total rotation distribution and the corresponding transverse displacement distribution of the beam has been obtained at each mode for hinged-hinged and clamped-clamped FG beams. The equations of motion for large amplitude vibrations of FG beams at each mode in terms of the undetermined coefficients are derived from the conservation of total energy principle. The free vibration problem is solved using harmonic balance method whereas the forced vibration problem is solved using the Newmark-β method to obtain the time response of the undetermined coefficients and the dynamic response of the beam has been computed from the modal superposition method. The proposed coupled displacement field approach has been successfully applied for the first time to study the large amplitude vibrations of FG beams with suitable validations, and the influence of power law index, slenderness ratio, harmonic load, and concentrated mass has been investigated.
Ga+-focused ion beam damage in n-type Ga2O3
Authors: Xia Xinyi , Al-Mamun Nahid Sultan , Warywoba Daudi , Ren Fan , Haque Aman , Pearton S. J.
Published: August 2022

Focused Ga+ ion milling of lightly Si-doped, n-type Ga2O3 was performed with 2–30 kV ions at normal incidence and beam currents that were a function of beam voltage, 65 nA for 30 kV, 26 nA for 10 kV, 13 nA for 5 kV, and 7.1 nA for 2 kV, to keep the milling depth constant at 100 nm. Approximate milling rates were 15, 6, 2.75, and 1.5 μm3/s for 30, 10, 5, and 2 kV, respectively. The electrical effects of the ion damage were characterized by Schottky barrier height and diode ideality factor on vertical rectifier structures comprising 10 μm epitaxial n-Ga2O3 on n+ Ga2O3 substrates, while the structural damage was imaged by transmission electron microscopy. The reverse bias leakage was largely unaffected even by milling at 30 kV beam energy, while the forward current-voltage characteristics showed significant deterioration at 5 kV, with an increase in the ideality factor from 1.25 to 2.25. The I–V characteristics no longer showed rectification for the 30 kV condition. Subsequent annealing up to 400 °C produced substantial recovery of the I–V characteristics for all beam energies and was sufficient to restore the initial ideality factor completely for beam energies up to 5 kV. Even the 30 kV-exposed rectifiers showed a recovery of the ideality factor to 1.8. The surface morphology of the ion-milled Ga2O3 was smooth even at 30 kV ion energy, with no evidence for preferential sputtering of the oxygen. The surface region was not amorphized by extended ion milling (35 min) at 5 kV with the samples held at 25 °C, as determined by electron diffraction patterns, and significant recovery of the lattice order was observed after annealing at 400 °C.
Primary specification of blastocyst trophectoderm by scRNA-seq: New insights into embryo implantation
Authors: Liu Dandan , Chen Yidong , Ren Yixin , Yuan Peng , Wang Nan , Liu Qiang , Yang Cen , Yan Zhiqiang , Yang Ming , Wang Jing , Lian Ying , Yan Jie , Zhai Fan , Nie Yanli , Zhu Xiaohui , Chen Yuan , Li Rong , Chang Hsun-Ming , Leung Peter C. K. , Qiao Jie , Yan Liying
Published: August 2022

Mechanisms of implantation such as determination of the attachment pole, fetal-maternal communication, and underlying causes of implantation failure are largely unexplored. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing on peri-implantation embryos from both humans and mice to explore trophectoderm (TE) development and embryo-endometrium cross-talk. We found that the transcriptomes of polar and mural TE diverged after embryos hatched from the zona pellucida in both species, with polar TE being more mature than mural TE. The implantation poles show similarities in cell cycle activities, as well as in expression of genes critical for implantation and placentation. Embryos that either fail to attach in vitro or fail to implant in vivo show abnormalities in pathways related to energy production, protein metabolism, and 18Sribosomal RNA m6A methylation. These findings uncover the gene expression characteristics of humans and mice TE differentiation during the peri-implantation period and provide new insights into embryo implantation.
Co-option of the piRNA pathway to regulate neural crest specification
Authors: Galton Riley , Fejes-Toth Katalin , Bronner Marianne E.
Published: August 2022

Across Metazoa, Piwi proteins play a critical role in protecting the germline genome through piRNA-mediated repression of transposable elements. In vertebrates, activity of Piwi proteins and the piRNA pathway was thought to be gonad specific. Our results reveal the expression of Piwil1 in a vertebrate somatic cell type, the neural crest. Piwil1 is expressed at low levels throughout the chicken neural tube, peaking in neural crest cells just before the specification event that enables epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and migration into the periphery. Loss of Piwil1 impedes neural crest specification and emigration. Small RNA sequencing reveals somatic piRNAs with sequence signatures of an active ping-pong loop. RNA-seq and functional experiments identify the transposon-derived gene ERNI as Piwil1’s target in the neural crest. ERNI, in turn, suppresses
Sox2
to precisely control the timing of neural crest specification and EMT. Our data provide mechanistic insight into a novel function of the piRNA pathway as a regulator of somatic development in a vertebrate species.
Neuroblastoma suppressor of tumorigenicity 1 is a circulating protein associated with progression to end-stage kidney disease in diabetes
Authors: Kobayashi Hiroki , Looker Helen C. , Satake Eiichiro , D’Addio Francesca , Wilson Jonathan M. , Saulnier Pierre Jean , Md Dom Zaipul I. , O’Neil Kristina , Ihara Katsuhito , Krolewski Bozena , Badger Hannah S. , Petrazzuolo Adriana , Corradi Domenico , Galecki Andrzej , Wilson Parker C. , Najafian Behzad , Mauer Michael , Niewczas Monika A. , Doria Alessandro , Humphreys Benjamin D. , Duffin Kevin L. , Fiorina Paolo , Nelson Robert G. , Krolewski Andrzej S.
Published: August 2022

Circulating proteins associated with transforming growth factor–β (TGF-β) signaling are implicated in the development of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). It remains to be comprehensively examined which of these proteins are involved in the pathogenesis of DKD and its progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in humans. Using the SOMAscan proteomic platform, we measured concentrations of 25 TGF-β signaling family proteins in four different cohorts composed in total of 754 Caucasian or Pima Indian individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Of these 25 circulating proteins, we identified neuroblastoma suppressor of tumorigenicity 1 (NBL1, aliases DAN and DAND1), a small secreted protein known to inhibit members of the bone morphogenic protein family, to be most strongly and independently associated with progression to ESKD during 10-year follow-up in all cohorts. The extent of damage to podocytes and other glomerular structures measured morphometrically in 105 research kidney biopsies correlated strongly with circulating NBL1 concentrations. Also, in vitro exposure to NBL1 induced apoptosis in podocytes. In conclusion, circulating NBL1 may be involved in the disease process underlying progression to ESKD, and its concentration in circulation may identify subjects with diabetes at increased risk of progression to ESKD.
Broadly neutralizing antibodies to SARS-related viruses can be readily induced in rhesus macaques
Authors: He Wan-ting , Yuan Meng , Callaghan Sean , Musharrafieh Rami , Song Ge , Silva Murillo , Beutler Nathan , Lee Wen-Hsin , Yong Peter , Torres Jonathan L. , Melo Mariane , Zhou Panpan , Zhao Fangzhu , Zhu Xueyong , Peng Linghang , Huang Deli , Anzanello Fabio , Ricketts James , Parren Mara , Garcia Elijah , Ferguson Melissa , Rinaldi William , Rawlings Stephen A. , Nemazee David , Smith Davey M. , Briney Bryan , Safonova Yana , Rogers Thomas F. , Dan Jennifer M. , Zhang Zeli , Weiskopf Daniela , Sette Alessandro , Crotty Shane , Irvine Darrell J. , Ward Andrew B. , Wilson Ian A. , Burton Dennis R. , Andrabi Raiees
Published: August 2022

To prepare for future coronavirus (CoV) pandemics, it is desirable to generate vaccines capable of eliciting broadly neutralizing antibody responses to CoVs. Here, we show that immunization of macaques with SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein with a two-shot protocol generated potent serum receptor binding domain cross-neutralizing antibody responses to both SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV-1. Furthermore, responses were equally effective against most SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) and some were highly effective against Omicron. This result contrasts with human infection or many two-shot vaccination protocols where responses were typically more SARS-CoV-2 specific and where VOCs were less well neutralized. Structural studies showed that cloned macaque neutralizing antibodies, particularly using a given heavy chain germline gene, recognized a relatively conserved region proximal to the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 receptor binding site (RBS), whereas many frequently elicited human neutralizing antibodies targeted more variable epitopes overlapping the RBS. B cell repertoire differences between humans and macaques appeared to influence the vaccine response. The macaque neutralizing antibodies identified a pan-SARS–related virus epitope region less well targeted by human antibodies that could be exploited in rational vaccine design.
Diphenyleneiodonium Treatment Inhibits the Development of Severe Herpes Stromal Keratitis Lesions
Authors: Rana Mashidur , Setia Mizumi , Suvas Pratima K. , Chakraborty Anish , Suvas Susmit
Published: August 2022

Neutrophils are one of the primary immune cell types involved in causing tissue damage after corneal HSV-1 infection. This study demonstrates that intracellular ROS production in the neutrophils in HSK lesions is not NOX2 dependent. Furthermore, manipulating ROS levels in neutrophils ameliorates the severity of HSK lesions. Our findings suggest that excessive intracellular ROS in neutrophils disrupt redox homeostasis and affect their survival, resulting in a decrease in HSK lesion severity.
Enhancing respiratory disease diagnosis by bronchoalveolar lavage in Kashmir: an audit of findings
Authors: Bhat Javeed Iqbal , Tramboo Zubair M , Shah Tajamul Hussain , Charoo Bashir Ahmad , Qazi Iqbal Ahmad
Published: August 2022

Objective

To study bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) findings in various respiratory diseases in children in Kashmir India.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Paediatric department of the tertiary care hospital.

Patients

Children of both genders from 1 month to 17 years of age

Intervention

All studied patients underwent flexible bronchoscopy and BAL.

Outcome measure

To observe the BAL findings in various respiratory diseases in the studied population.

Results

A total of 283 patients underwent BAL procedure. The positive BAL report was received in 131 (46%) patients. Out of these, 55 (42%) patients had positive BAL culture/ microscopy for different bacterial (50) and fungal species (Candidaspp (3), Mucormycosis (1) andAspergillus(1)). MTB was isolated in 25 (19%) patients. Twenty-three (17.5%) patients had bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) positive for pulmonary hydatidosis. Foamy macrophages were seen in 13 patients, significant eosinophilia in nine patients and hemosiderin-laden macrophages were seen in three patients.

Conclusion

We found BALF a very useful sample for the evaluation of many infective and non-infective respiratory diseases in our region, which otherwise lacks high end diagnostics. 46% of our patients had some abnormalities in the BAL specimen. It provided us with valuable information regarding organism profile and drug sensitivity in case of lung infection. BALF analysis was also found useful in the diagnosis of some non-infective pulmonary disorders like acute eosinophilic pneumonia, aspiration syndromes and bronchial asthma.
Antibiotic use in ambulatory care for acutely ill children in high-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Burvenich Ruben , Dillen Hannelore , Trinh Nhung T H , Freer Joseph , Wynants Laure , Heytens Stefan , De Sutter An , Verbakel Jan Y
Published: August 2022

Objective

To determine the rate and appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing for acutely ill children in ambulatory care in high-income countries.

Design

On 10 February 2021, we systematically searched articles published since 2000 in MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, Web Of Science and grey literature databases. We included cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, time-series analyses, randomised controlled trials and non-randomised studies of interventions with acutely ill children up to and including 12 years of age in ambulatory care settings in high-income countries. Pooled antibiotic prescribing and appropriateness rates were calculated using random-effects models. Meta-regression was performed to describe the relationship between the antibiotic prescribing rate and study-level covariates.

Results

We included 86 studies comprising 11 114 863 children. We found a pooled antibiotic prescribing rate of 45.4% (95% CI 38.2% to 52.8%) for all acutely ill children, and 85.6% (95% CI 73.3% to 92.9%) for acute otitis media, 37.4% (95% CI 30.9% to 44.3%) for respiratory tract infections, and 40.4% (95% CI 29.9% to 51.9%) for other diagnoses. Considerable heterogeneity can only partly be explained by differences in diagnoses. The overall pooled appropriateness rate is 68.5% (95% CI 55.8% to 78.9%, I²=99.8%; 19 studies, 119 995 participants). 38.3% of all prescribed antibiotics were aminopenicillins.

Conclusions

Antibiotic prescribing rates for acutely ill children in ambulatory care in high-income countries remain high. Large differences in prescription rates between studies can only partly be explained by differences in diagnoses. Better registration and further research are needed to investigate patient-level data on diagnosis and appropriateness.
Preconception and periconception interventions to prevent low birth weight, small for gestational age and preterm birth: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Partap Uttara , Chowdhury Ranadip , Taneja Sunita , Bhandari Nita , De Costa Ayesha , Bahl Rajiv , Fawzi Wafaie
Published: August 2022

Background

Low birth weight (LBW), including preterm birth (PTB) and small for gestational age (SGA), contributes a significant global health burden. We aimed to summarise current evidence on the effect of preconception and periconception interventions on LBW, SGA and PTB.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and WHO Global Index Medicus for randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies published by 28 November 2020, which assessed interventions delivered in preconception and periconception or preconception and pregnancy. Primary outcomes were LBW, SGA and PTB. Studies were categorised by intervention type and delivery during preconception and periconception or during preconception and pregnancy. Estimates were pooled using fixed-effects or random-effects restricted maximum likelihood method meta-analyses. Quality of evidence for primary outcomes was assessed using the Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Results

We included 58 studies. Twenty-eight studies examined nutrition interventions (primarily micronutrient or food supplementation). Thirty studies (including one reporting a nutrition intervention) provided health interventions (general preconception health, early adverse pregnancy outcome prevention, non-communicable disease and infectious disease prevention and management). One study assessed a social intervention (reproductive planning). Studies varied in terms of specific interventions, including delivery across preconception or pregnancy, resulting in few studies for any single comparison. Overall, the evidence was generally very uncertain regarding the impact of any intervention on LBW, SGA and PTB. Additionally, preconception and periconception nutritional supplementation containing folic acid was associated with reduced risk of birth defects (10 studies, N=3 13 312, risk ratio: 0.37 (95% CI: 0.24 to 0.55), I2: 74.33%).

Conclusion

We found a paucity of evidence regarding the impact of preconception and periconception interventions on LBW, SGA and PTB. Further research on a wider range of interventions is required to clearly ascertain their potential effectiveness.

Trial registration number

This review was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020220915).
Prevalence and risk factors of lower extremity disease in high risk groups in Malawi: a stratified cross-sectional study
Authors: Kasenda Stephen , Crampin Amelia , Davies Justine , Malava Jullita Kenala , Manganizithe Stella , Kumambala Annie , Sandford Becky
Published: August 2022

Objective

Low/middle-income countries face a disproportionate burden of cardiovascular diseases. However, among cardiovascular diseases, burden of and associations with lower extremity disease (LED) (peripheral arterial disease and/or neuropathy) is neglected. We investigated the prevalence and factors associated with LED among individuals known to have cardiovascular disease risk factors (CVDRFs) in Malawi, a low-income country with a significant prevalence of CVDRFs.

Design

This was a stratified cross-sectional study.

Setting

This study was conducted in urban Lilongwe Area 25, and the rural Karonga Health and Demographic Surveillance Site.

Participants

Participants were at least 18 years old and had been identified to have two or more known CVDRFs.

Main outcome measures

LED—determined by the presence of one of the following: neuropathy (as assessed by a 10 g monofilament), arterial disease (absent peripheral pulses, claudication as assessed by the Edinburgh claudication questionnaire or Ankle Brachial Pulse Index (ABPI) <0.9), previous amputation or ulceration of the lower limbs.

Results

There were 806 individuals enrolled into the study. Mean age was 52.5 years; 53.5% of participants were men (n=431) and 56.7% (n=457) were from the rural site. Nearly a quarter (24.1%; 95% CI: 21.2 to 27.2) of the participants had at least one symptom or sign of LED. 12.8% had neuropathy, 6.7% had absent pulses, 10.0% had claudication, 1.9% had ABPI <0.9, 0.9% had an amputation and 1.1% had lower limb ulcers. LED had statistically significant association with increasing age, urban residence and use of indoor fires.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that a quarter of individuals with two or more CVDRFs have evidence of LED and 2.4% have an amputation or signs of limb threatening ulceration or amputation. Further epidemiological and health systems research is warranted to prevent LED and limb loss.
Inequalities in the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic: an ecological study of inequalities in mortality in the first wave and the effects of the first national lockdown in England
Authors: Welsh Claire , Albani Viviana , Matthews Fiona , Bambra Clare
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To examine how ecological inequalities in COVID-19 mortality rates evolved in England, and whether the first national lockdown impacted them. This analysis aimed to provide evidence for important lessons to inform public health planning to reduce inequalities in any future pandemics.

Design

Longitudinal ecological study.

Setting

307 lower-tier local authorities in England.

Primary outcome measure

Age-standardised COVID-19 mortality rates by local authority, regressed on Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) and relevant epidemic dynamics.

Results

Local authorities that started recording COVID-19 deaths earlier were more deprived, and more deprived authorities saw faster increases in their death rates. By 6 April 2020 (week 15, the earliest time that the 23 March lockdown could have begun affecting death rates) the cumulative death rate in local authorities in the two most deprived deciles of IMD was 54% higher than the rate in the two least deprived deciles. By 4 July 2020 (week 27), this gap had narrowed to 29%. Thus, inequalities in mortality rates by decile of deprivation persisted throughout the first wave, but reduced during the lockdown.

Conclusions

This study found significant differences in the dynamics of COVID-19 mortality at the local authority level, resulting in inequalities in cumulative mortality rates during the first wave of the pandemic. The first lockdown in England was fairly strict—and the study found that it particularly benefited those living in more deprived local authorities. Care should be taken to implement lockdowns early enough, in the right places—and at a sufficiently strict level—to maximally benefit all communities, and reduce inequalities.