bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ characterization of microparticulate optoacoustic contrast agents in an intracardiac perfusion mouse model
Authors: Degtyaruk Oleksiy , Nozdriukhin Daniil , Razansky Daniel , Deán-Ben Xosé Luís
Published: July 2021

Extrinsically administered light-absorbing agents may greatly enhance the sensitivity and imaging performance of optoacoustic tomography (OAT). Beyond the use of targeted contrast agents in functional and molecular imaging applications, tracking of highly absorbing microparticles has recently been shown to facilitate super-resolution volumetric angiography and mapping of blood flow. However, in vivo characterization of new types of microparticulate absorbing agents is often hindered due to their potential toxicity, incompatible dimensions, or sub-optimal extinction spectrum shadowed by strong background absorption of hemoglobin. Herein, we used an intracardiac perfusion mouse model to individually track the perfusion of absorbing particles through the cerebral vasculature by acquiring a sequence of high-frame-rate 3D OAT images. The particles were injected in the left ventricle of the heart after substitution of blood by an artificial cerebrospinal fluid post mortem, which has further contributed to minimizing the background OAT signals induced by hemoglobin absorption. The presented approach can greatly aid the development of new microparticulate contrast agents with optimized performance for various OAT imaging applications.
The 3’tsRNAs are aminoacylated: Implications for their biogenesis
Authors: Liu Ziwei , Kim Hak Kyun , Xu Jianpeng , Jing Yuqing , Kay Mark A.
Published: July 2021

Emerging evidence indicates that tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are involved in fine-tuning gene expression and become dysregulated in various cancers. We recently showed that the 22nt LeuCAG3´tsRNA from the 3´ end of tRNALeu is required for efficient translation of a ribosomal protein mRNA and ribosome biogenesis. Inactivation of this 3´tsRNA induced apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells and suppressed the growth of a patient-derived orthotopic hepatocellular carcinoma in mice. The mechanism involved in the generation of the 3´tsRNAs remains elusive and it is unclear if the 3´-ends of 3´tsRNAs are aminoacylated. Here we report an enzymatic method utilizing exonuclease T to determine the 3´charging status of tRNAs and tsRNAs. Our results showed that the LeuCAG3´tsRNA, and two other 3´tsRNAs are fully aminoacylated. When the leucyl-tRNA synthetase (LARS1) was inhibited, there was no change in the total tRNALeu concentration but a reduction in both the charged tRNALeu and LeuCAG3´tsRNA, suggesting the 3´tsRNAs are fully charged and originated solely from the charged mature tRNA. Altering LARS1 expression or the expression of various tRNALeu mutants were also shown to affect the generation of the LeuCAG3´tsRNA further suggesting they are created in a highly regulated process. The fact that the 3´tsRNAs are aminoacylated and their production is regulated provides additional insights into their importance in post-transcriptional gene regulation that includes coordinating the production of the protein synthetic machinery.
The petrosal and basicranial morphology of Protoceras celer
Authors: Robson Selina Viktor , Seale Brendon , Theodor Jessica M.
Published: July 2021

Protoceratids are an extinct family of endemic North American artiodactyls. The phylogenetic position of protoceratids in relation to camelids and ruminants has been contentious for over a century. The petrosal morphology of basal (Leptotragulus) and derived (Syndyoceras) protoceratids has suggested that protoceratids are closely related to ruminants, whereas a prior description of a disarticulated intermediate protoceratid petrosal (Protoceras celer) indicated that protoceratids were closely related to camelids. This contradictory evidence implied that there were several character reversals within the protoceratid lineage and brought into question the utility of basicranial characters in artiodactyl phylogenetics. Here, we provide descriptions of an additionalP.celerpetrosal. The descriptions are based on data produced by computed tomography scans, which allowed us to image the petrosalin situin the skull. Our results indicate that the petrosal morphology ofP.celeris similar to that of other protoceratids, implying that, contrary to previous evidence, petrosal morphology is conserved within the Protoceratidae.
Prediction of hearing outcomes in chronic otitis media patients underwent tympanoplasty using ossiculoplasty outcome parameter staging or middle ear risk indices
Authors: Jung Da Jung , Lee Hyun Ju , Hong Ji Song , Kim Dong Gyu , Mun Jae Yeon , Bae Jong-Won , Yoo Myung Hoon , Lee Kyu-Yup
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Ossiculoplasty outcome parameter staging (OOPS) and middle ear risk index (MERI) are the most commonly used indices for predicting prognosis of patients with chronic otitis media (COM). This study aimed to verify the efficiency of OOPS and MERI scores in predicting outcomes of patients with COM who underwent tympanoplasty.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of patients who underwent tympanoplasty (n = 526). OOPS, and MERI scores were collected. Hearing data were measured 1 day preoperatively, and 3 and 12 months postoperatively. Operation success was defined according to the Korean Society of Otology guidelines.

Results

For calculation of success, the ROC values of MERI were 0.551 at 12 months. ROC values of OOPS were 0.637 at 12 months. There were no significant differences in hearing variables among the three groups according to MERI. There were significantly favorable outcomes in hearing variables in the low-risk group in OOPS. The mean OOPS score was greater in patients with success than those with non-success. Otorrhea, ossicle status, and status of mucosa as variables in both indices were associated with success. The type of mastoidectomy as a variable in OOPS alone was associated with success. Absence of hypertension, presence of ossiculoplasty, and use of incus as ossiculoplasty material were associated with poor success rate.

Conclusion

Compared with MERI, the OOPS index was more closely associated with the hearing outcomes, which may be due to the extent of inflammation in the OOPS index.
Do you have COVID-19? How to increase the use of diagnostic and contact tracing apps
Authors: Martínez Deborah , Parilli Cristina , Rojas Ana María , Scartascini Carlos , Simpser Alberto
Published: July 2021

Diagnostic and contact tracing apps are a needed weapon to contain contagion during a pandemic. We study how the content of the messages used to promote the apps influence adoption by running a survey experiment on approximately 23,000 Mexican adults. Respondents were randomly assigned to one of three different prompts, or a control condition, before stating their willingness to adopt a diagnostic app and contact tracing app. The prompt emphasizing government efforts to ensure data privacy, which has been one of the most common strategies, reduced willingness to adopt the apps by about 4 pp and 3 pp, respectively. An effective app promotion policy must understand individuals’ reservations and be wary of unintended reactions to naïve reassurances.
Birth weight rather than birth length is associated with childhood behavioural problems in a Czech ELSPAC cohort
Authors: Ráčková Lucie , Kuruczová Daniela , Jarkovský Jiří , Bienertová-Vašků Julie
Published: July 2021

Many physical and psychological characteristics are influenced by prenatal development. Some studies have located links between low birth parameters and behavioural problems, with the latter in turn associated with educational progress, career success, overall health, and subsequent life events. However, few studies have investigated whether this association also applies to children in the normal birth growth range. This study thus investigates the relationship between normal-range birth length, weight, and behavioural problems at the age of seven. We use data from the Czech part of the European Longitudinal Study of Pregnancy and Childhood (ELSPAC) cohort, which provides comprehensive insight into a post-communist country undergoing a period of economic transition. Childhood behavioural problems were measured in 1,796 children using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Associations were modelled using weighted logistic regression. Birth weight was found to be linked to the total difficulties score, hyperactivity, and peer relationship problems subscales in a fully adjusted model while birth length was not significantly associated with any subscale in the fully adjusted model. We thus conclude that normal-range birth weight is associated with behavioural problems. It can therefore be assumed that the odds of behavioural problems and their consequences can be mitigated by preventive programs targeting pregnant women and children with lower but still normal weight.
Review of interruptions in a pediatric subspecialty outpatient clinic
Authors: Lee Tyler , Rosario Hinette , Cifuentes Elizabeth , Cui Jiawei , Lin Emery C. , Miller Victoria A. , Lin Henry C.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The objective of this study was to describe interruptions in the pediatric ambulatory setting and to assess their impact on perceived physician communication, patient satisfaction and recall of provided physician instructions.

Methods

An observational study was performed at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Pediatric Gastroenterology clinic. Participation consisted of video recording the clinic visit and the caregiver completed post-visit surveys on communication and satisfaction. Video recordings were coded for interruptions, which were divided into 3 main categories: Visit Associated, Pediatric Associated, and Unanticipated. An interruption rate was calculated and correlated with the following outcome variables to assess the impact of interruptions: caregiver satisfaction, caregiver perception on the quality of physician communication, and caregiver instruction recall.

Results

There were 675 interruptions noted in the 81 clinic visits, with an average of 7.96 (σ = 7.68) interruptions per visit. Six visits had no interruptions. The Patient was the most frequent interrupter. Significantly higher interruption rates occurred in clinic visits with younger patients (<7 years old) with most of the interruptions being Pediatric Associated interruptions. There was minimal correlation between the clinic visit interruption rate and caregiver satisfaction with the communication, caregiver perception of quality of communication, or caregiver instruction recall rate.

Conclusion

The effect of interruptions on the pediatric visit remains unclear. Interruptions may be part of the communication process to ensure alignment of the patient’s agenda. Additional studies are needed to help determine the impact of interruptions and guide medical education on patient communication.
Application of edge computing and GIS in ecological water requirement prediction and optimal allocation of water resources in irrigation area
Authors: Li Yang , Xie Jiancang , Jiang Rengui , Yan Dongfei
Published: July 2021

The purposes are to use water resources efficiently and ensure the sustainable development of social water resources. The edge computing technology and GIS (Geographic Information Science) image data are combined from the perspective of sustainable development. A prediction model for the water resources in the irrigation area is constructed. With the goal of maximizing comprehensive benefits, the optimal allocation of water quality and quantity of water resources is determined. Finally, the actual effect of the model is verified through specific instance data in a province. Results demonstrate that the proposed irrigation area ecological prediction model based on edge computing and GIS images can provide better performance than other state of the art models on water resources prediction. Specifically, the accuracy can remain above 90%. The proposed model for ecological water demand prediction in the irrigation area and optimal allocation of water resources is based on the principle of quality water supply. The optimal allocation of water resources reveals the sustainable development ideas and the requirements of the optimal allocation model, which is very reasonable. The improvement of the system is effective and feasible, and the optimal allocation results are reasonable. This allocation model aims at the water quality and quantity conditions, water conservancy project conditions, and specific water demand requirements in the study area. The calculation results have great practicability and a strong guiding significance for the sustainable utilization and management of the irrigation area.
Molecular diet studies of water mites reveal prey biodiversity
Authors: Vasquez Adrian A. , Mohiddin Obadeh , Li Zeyu , Bonnici Brittany L. , Gurdziel Katherine , Ram Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2021

Water mites are diverse aquatic invertebrates that provide potentially important ecosystem and economic services as bioindicators and mosquito biocontrol; however, little is known about water mite digestive physiology, including their diet in nature. Water mites, much like their spider relatives, liquefy their prey upon consumption. This results in the absence of morphologically identifiable prey in water mite mid-gut. Previous studies have reported associations in the field of water mites with presumed prey and laboratory observations of water mites feeding on specific organisms offered for ingestion; however, the present work aims to determine what water mites have ingested in nature based on molecular studies of gut contents from freshly collected organisms from the field. To elucidate water mite prey, we used next-generation sequencing to detect diverse cytochrome oxidase I DNA barcode sequences of putative prey in the guts of 54 specimens comprising two species ofLebertiaand a few specimens ofArrenurus(2) andLimnesia(1). To our knowledge this is the first molecular study of the diets of water mites as they feed in nature. While the presence of chironomid DNA confirmed previous observations of midge larvae as part of the diets ofLebertia, we also found the DNA of diverse organisms in all four species of water mites, including the DNA of mosquitoes in 6 specimens ofLebertiaand a large number of previously unknown prey, especially from oligochaete worms. These studies thereby reveal a greater diversity of prey and a potentially broader significance than previously appreciated for water mites in aquatic food webs. Molecular studies like this can detect water mite predators of mosquito larvae and add knowledge of water mite predatory contributions to freshwater food webs.
Tuna behaviour at anchored FADs inferred from Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) of pole-and-line tuna fishers in the Maldives
Authors: Jauharee Ahmed Riyaz , Capello Manuela , Simier Monique , Forget Fabien , Adam Mohamed Shiham , Dagorn Laurent
Published: July 2021

The Maldives tuna fishery landings in 2018 were 148, 000 t and accounted for nearly a quarter of the global pole-and-line tuna catch. This fishery partially relies on a network of 55 anchored fish aggregating devices (AFADs) deployed around the archipelago. About one-third of the total pole-and-line tuna catch is harvested at AFADs. Although the AFAD fishery has existed for 35 years, knowledge on the behaviour of tuna in the AFAD array is still limited, precluding the development of science-based fishery management. In this study, local ecological knowledge (LEK) of fishers was used to improve our understanding of tuna behaviour, through personal interviews of 54 pole-and-line fishers from different parts of the archipelago. Interview results suggest that during the northeast monsoon tuna are more abundant on the eastern side of the Maldives, while during the southwest monsoon they are more abundant on the western side of the Maldives. Most fishers believed that tuna tend to stay at the AFADs for 3 to 6 days and remain within 2 miles from the AFADs when they are associated. Fishers believe that strong currents is the main factor for tuna departure from AFADs, though high sea surface temperatures and stormy conditions were also thought to contribute to departures. Moderate currents are believed to be a favourable condition to form aggregations at the AFADs while other factors such as suitable temperature, prey and attractants enhance this aggregation. Fishers also believe that there are multiple schools segregated according to size and species at AFADs and that catchability is higher at dawn and in the late afternoon when the tuna occur shallower in the water column. This study is an important step towards engaging the Maldivian tuna fishers into a science-based fishery management.
Aging increases senescence, calcium signaling, and extracellular matrix deposition in human airway smooth muscle
Authors: Wicher Sarah A. , Roos Benjamin B. , Teske Jacob J. , Fang Yun Hua , Pabelick Christina , Prakash Y. S.
Published: July 2021

Lung function declines as people age and their lungs become stiffer. With an increasing elderly population, understanding mechanisms that contribute to these structural and functional changes in the aging lung is important. Part of the aging process is characterized by thicker, more fibrotic airways, and senile emphysema caused by changes in lung parenchyma. There is also senescence, which occurs throughout the body with aging. Here, using human airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells from patients in different age groups, we explored senescence pathways and changes in intracellular calcium signaling and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition to elucidate potential mechanisms by which aging leads to thicker and stiffer lungs. Senescent markers p21, γH2AX, and β-gal, and some senescence-associated secretory proteins (SASP) increased with aging, as shown by staining and biochemical analyses. Agonist-induced intracellular Ca2+responses, measured using fura-2 loaded cells and fluorescence imaging, increased with age. However, biochemical analysis showed that expression of the following markers decreased with age: M3muscarinic receptor, TRPC3, Orai1, STIM1, SERCA2, MMP2 and MMP9. In contrast, collagen III, and fibronectin deposition increased with age. These data show that senescence increases in the aging airways that is associated with a stiffer but surprisingly greater intracellular calcium signaling as a marker for contractility. ASM senescence may enhance fibrosis in a feed forward loop promoting remodeling and altered calcium storage and buffering.
Effects of screen-based retinal light stimulation measured with a novel contrast sensitivity test
Authors: Neumann Antonia , Breher Katharina , Wahl Siegfried
Published: July 2021

Myopia is increasing worldwide hence it exists a pressing demand to find effective myopia control strategies. Previous studies have shown that light, spectral composition, spatial frequencies, and contrasts play a critical role in refractive development. The effects of light on multiple retinal processes include growth regulation, but also visual performance and perception. Changes in subjective visual performance can be examined by contrast sensitivity (CS). This study was conducted to investigate whether retinal light stimulation of different wavelength ranges is able to elicit changes in CS and, therefore, may be used for myopia control purposes. In total, 30 right eyes were stimulated with the light of different wavelength ranges, including dominant wavelengths of ∼480 nm, ∼530 nm, ∼630 nm and polychromatic light via a commercial liquid crystal display (LCD) screen. Stimulation was performed screen full-field and on the optic nerve head only. CS was measured before any stimulation and after each stimulation condition using a novel and time-efficient CS test. Post-stimulation CS changes were analyzed by ANOVA regarding the influencing factors spatial frequency, stimulation wavelength and stimulation location. A priorly conducted verification study on a subset of five participants compared the newly developed CS test to a validated CS test. The novel CS test exhibited good reliability of 0.94 logCS and repeatability of 0.13 logCS with a duration of 92 sec ± 17 sec. No clinically critical change between pre- and post-stimulation CS was detected (all p>0.05). However, the results showed that post-stimulation CS differed significantly at 18 cpd after stimulation with polychromatic light from short-wavelength light (p<0.0001). Location of illumination (screen full-field vs. optic nerve head) or any interactions with other factors did not reveal significant influences (all p>0.05). To summarize, a novel CS test measures the relationship between retinal light stimulation and CS. However, using retinal illumination via LCD screens to increase CS is inconclusive.
A new purification technique to obtain specific size distribution of giant lipid vesicles using dual filtration
Authors: Karal Mohammad Abu Sayem , Nasrin Tawfika , Ahmed Marzuk , Ahamed Md. Kabir , Ahammed Shareef , Akter Salma , Hasan Sharif , Mahbub Zaid Bin
Published: July 2021

A new purification technique is developed for obtaining distribution of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) within a specific range of sizes using dual filtration. The GUVs were prepared using well known natural swelling method. For filtration, different combinations of polycarbonate membranes were implemented in filter holders. In our experiment, the combinations of membranes were selected with corresponding pore sizes–(i) 12 and 10 μm, (ii) 12 and 8 μm, and (iii) 10 and 8 μm. By these filtration arrangements, obtained GUVs size distribution were in the ranges of 6−26 μm, 5–38 μm and 5–30 μm, respectively. In comparison, the size distribution range was much higher for single filtration technique, for example, 6−59 μm GUVs found for a membrane with 12 μm pores. Using this technique, the water-soluble fluorescent probe, calcein, can be removed from the suspension of GUVs successfully. The size distributions were analyzed with lognormal distribution. The skewness became smaller (narrow size distribution) when a dual filtration was used instead of single filtration. The mode of the size distribution obtained in dual filtration was also smaller to that of single filtration. By continuing this process of purification for a second time, the GUVs size distribution became even narrower. After using an extra filtration with dual filtration, two different size distributions of GUVs were obtained at a time. This experimental observation suggests that different size specific distributions of GUVs can be obtained easily, even if GUVs are prepared by different other methods.
Probing the role of the residues in the active site of the transaminase from Thermobaculum terrenum
Authors: Bezsudnova Ekaterina Yu. , Nikolaeva Alena Yu. , Bakunova Alina K. , Rakitina Tatiana V. , Suplatov Dmitry A. , Popov Vladimir O. , Boyko Konstantin M.
Published: July 2021

Creating biocatalysts for (R)-selective amination effectively is highly desirable in organic synthesis. Despite noticeable progress in the engineering of (R)-amine activity in pyridoxal-5’-phosphate-dependent transaminases of fold type IV, the specialization of the activity is still an intuitive task, as there is poor understanding of sequence-structure-function relationships. In this study, we analyzed this relationship in transaminase from Thermobaculum terrenum, distinguished by expanded substrate specificity and activity in reactions with L-amino acids and (R)-(+)-1-phenylethylamine using α-ketoglutarate and pyruvate as amino acceptors. We performed site-directed mutagenesis to create a panel of the enzyme variants, which differ in the active site residues from the parent enzyme to a putative transaminase specific to (R)-primary amines. The variants were examined in the overall transamination reactions and half-reaction with (R)-(+)-1-phenylethylamine. A structural analysis of the most prominent variants revealed a spatial reorganization in the active sites, which caused changes in activity. Although the specialization to (R)-amine transaminase was not implemented, we succeeded in understanding the role of the particular active site residues in expanding substrate specificity of the enzyme. We showed that the specificity for (R)-(+)-1-phenylethylamine in transaminase from T. terrenum arises without sacrificing the specificity for L-amino acids and α-ketoglutarate and in consensus with it.
Research on insulator defect detection algorithm of transmission line based on CenterNet
Authors: Wu Chunming , Ma Xin , Kong Xiangxu , Zhu Haichao
Published: July 2021

The reliability of the insulator has directly affected the stable operation of electric power system. The detection of defective insulators has always been an important issue in smart grid systems. However, the traditional transmission line detection method has low accuracy and poor real-time performance. We present an insulator defect detection method based on CenterNet. In order to improve detection efficiency, we simplified the backbone network. In addition, an attention mechanism is utilized to suppress useless information and improve the accuracy of network detection. In image preprocessing, the blurring of some detected images results in the samples being discarded, so we use super-resolution reconstruction algorithm to reconstruct the blurred images to enhance the dataset. The results show that the AP of the proposed method reaches 96.16% and the reasoning speed reaches 30FPS under the test condition of NVIDIA GTX 1080 test conditions. Compared with Faster R-CNN, YOLOV3, RetinaNet and FSAF, the detection accuracy of proposed method is greatly improved, which fully proves the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Relationship between practices of eye protection against solar ultraviolet radiation and cataract in a rural area
Authors: Chen Li-Ju , Chang Yun-Jau , Shieh Chun-Fu , Yu Jy-Haw , Yang Ming-Chin
Published: July 2021

Background

Cataract is a public health concern worldwide that differentially affects rural residents of outlying islands where ultraviolet radiation (UVR) may have greater penetration because of less shading.

Objectives

To assess the relationships between attitudes and practices of eye protection and eye diseases for residents of an offshore island of Taiwan.

Methods

Questionnaire survey was administered to local residents (age > 50 years) regarding socio-demographic information, attitudes/practices of eye protection under sun exposure and eye diseases.

Results

A total of 816 participants (response rate 90.7%, 816/900) completed the questionnaires. Mean age was 63.7 (+ 10.8) years. Among these participants, 44.4%, 15.1% and 8.3% had cataract, dry eye and glaucoma, respectively. Although 86.3% and 88.2% of participants agreed that they should avoid outdoor activities and wear glasses/broad-brimmed hats in harsh daylight, 69.4% and 48.3% of participants never/rarely used glasses or hats/umbrellas in harsh daylight, respectively. Predictors of less practices of eye protection against solar UVR included residents who were male, with lower education level, with longer residence and lack of commercial health insurance. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that practices of eye protection under sun exposure were significantly associated with less cataract, but not glaucoma or dry eye. Participants who did not wear glasses, broad-brimmed hats/use umbrellas or both in harsh sunlight (almost) every time were respectively associated with a 57% (P = 0.028), 45% (P = 0.027) or 70% (P = 0.026) increase of cataract than those who did in harsh sunlight (almost) every time.

Conclusions

Practices of eye protection under sun exposure is associated with lower risk of cataract.
A prospective cross-sectional study of tuberculosis in elderly Hispanics reveals that BCG vaccination at birth is protective whereas diabetes is not a risk factor
Authors: Scordo Julia M. , Aguillón-Durán Génesis P. , Ayala Doris , Quirino-Cerrillo Ana Paulina , Rodríguez-Reyna Eminé , Mora-Guzmán Francisco , Caso Jose A. , Ledezma-Campos Eder , Schlesinger Larry S. , Torrelles Jordi B. , Turner Joanne , Restrepo Blanca I.
Published: July 2021

Background

Aging increases the risk of tuberculosis (TB) and its adverse outcomes, but most studies are based on secondary analyses, and few are in Hispanics. Diabetes is a risk factor for TB in adults, but its contribution in the elderly is unknown. We aimed to identify the role of diabetes and other risk factors for TB in elderly Hispanics.

Methods

Cross-sectional study among newly-diagnosed TB patients, recent contacts (ReC), or community controls (CoC) totaling 646 participants, including 183 elderly (>60 years; 43 TB, 80 ReC, 60 CoC) and 463 adults (18 to 50 years; 80 TB, 301 ReC and 82 CoC). Host characteristics associated with TB and latentMycobacterium tuberculosisinfection (LTBI) were identified in the elderly by univariable and confirmed by multivariable logistic regression.

Results

LTBI was more prevalent among the elderly CoC (55%vs. 23.2% in adults; p<0.001), but not in ReC (elderly 71.3%vs. adult 63.8%); p = 0.213). Risk factors for TB in the elderly included male sex (adj-OR 4.33, 95% CI 1.76, 10.65), smoking (adj-OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.01, 6.45) and low BMI (adj-OR 12.34, 95% CI 4.44, 34.33). Unexpectedly, type 2 diabetes was not associated with TB despite its high prevalence (adj-OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.06, 2.38), and BCG vaccination at birth was protective (adj-OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.06, 0.45).

Conclusions

We report novel distinctions in TB risk factors in the elderlyvs. adults, notably in diabetes and BCG vaccination at birth. Further studies are warranted to address disparities in this vulnerable, understudied population.
Comparison of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein ELISA and the Abbott Architect SARS-CoV-2 IgG nucleocapsid protein assays for detection of antibodies
Authors: Wadhwa Ashutosh , Yin Sherry , Freeman Brandi , Hershow Rebecca B. , Killerby Marie , Yousaf Anna R. , Lester Sandra , Mills Lisa , Buono Sean A. , Pomeroy Mary , Owusu Daniel , Chu Victoria T. , Tate Jacqueline E. , Bhattacharyya Sanjib , Hall Patricia , Thornburg Natalie J. , Kirking Hannah L.
Published: July 2021

Serologic assays developed for SARS-CoV-2 detect different antibody subtypes and are based on different target antigens. Comparison of the performance of a SARS-CoV-2 Spike-Protein ELISA and the nucleocapsid-based Abbott ArchitectTM SARS-CoV-2 IgG assay indicated that the assays had high concordance, with rare paired discordant tests results.
Substantial Achilles adaptation following strength training has no impact on tendon function during walking
Authors: Waugh C. M. , Scott A.
Published: July 2021

Tendons are responsive to mechanical loading and their properties are often the target of intervention programs. The tendon’s mechanical properties, particularly stiffness, also govern its function, therefore changes to these properties could have substantial influence on energy-saving mechanisms during activities utilizing the stretch-shortening cycle. We investigated Achilles tendon (AT) functionin vivoduring walking with respect to a training intervention that elicited significant increases in AT stiffness. 14 men and women completed 12-weeks of isometric plantarflexor strength training that increased AT stiffness, measured during isometric MVC, by ~31%. Before and after the intervention, participants walked shod at their preferred velocity on a fully-instrumented treadmill. Movement kinematics, kinetics and displacement of the gastrocnemius medialis muscle-tendon junction were captured synchronously using 3D motion capture and ultrasound imaging, respectively. A MANOVA test was used to examine changes in AT force, stress, strain, stiffness, Young’s modulus, hysteresis and strain energy, measured during walking, before and following strength training. All were non-significant for a main effect of time, therefore no follow-up statistical tests were conducted. Changes in joint kinematics, tendon strain, velocity, work and power and muscle activity during the stance phase were assessed with 1D statistical parametric mapping, all of which also demonstrated a lack of change in response to the intervention. Thisin vivoexamination of tendon function in walking provides an important foundation for investigating the functional consequences of training adaptations. We found substantial increases in AT stiffness did not impact on tendon function during walking. AT stiffness measured during walking, however, was unchanged with training, which suggests that increases in stiffness may not be evident across the whole force-elongation relation, a finding which may help explain previously mixed intervention results and guide future investigations in the functional implications of tendon adaptation.
To comply or not comply? A latent profile analysis of behaviours and attitudes during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kleitman Sabina , Fullerton Dayna J. , Zhang Lisa M. , Blanchard Matthew D. , Lee Jihyun , Stankov Lazar , Thompson Valerie
Published: July 2021

How and why do people comply with protective behaviours during COVID-19? The emerging literature employs a variable-centered approach, typically using a narrow selection of constructs within a study. This study is the first to adopt a person-centred approach to identify complex patterns of compliance, and holistically examine underlying psychological differences, integrating multiple psychology paradigms and epidemiology. 1575 participants from Australia, US, UK, and Canada indicated their behaviours, attitudes, personality, cognitive/decision-making ability, resilience, adaptability, coping, political and cultural factors, and information consumption during the pandemic’s first wave. Using Latent Profile Analysis, two broad groups were identified. The compliant group (90%) reported greater worries, and perceived protective measures as effective, whilst the non-compliant group (about 10%) perceived them as problematic. The non-compliant group were lower on agreeableness and cultural tightness-looseness, but more extraverted, and reactant. They utilised more maladaptive coping strategies, checked/trusted the news less, and used official sources less. Females showed greater compliance than males. By promoting greater appreciation of the complexity of behaviour during COVID-19, this research provides a critical platform to inform future studies, public health policy, and targeted behaviour change interventions during pandemics. The results also challenge age-related stereotypes and assumptions.
Predicting pain among female survivors of recent interpersonal violence: A proof-of-concept machine-learning approach
Authors: Lannon Edward , Sanchez-Saez Francisco , Bailey Brooklynn , Hellman Natalie , Kinney Kerry , Williams Amber , Nag Subodh , Kutcher Matthew E. , Goodin Burel R. , Rao Uma , Morris Matthew C.
Published: July 2021

Interpersonal violence (IPV) is highly prevalent in the United States and is a major public health problem. The emergence and/or worsening of chronic pain are known sequelae of IPV; however, not all those who experience IPV develop chronic pain. To mitigate its development, it is critical to identify the factors that are associated with increased risk of pain after IPV. This proof-of-concept study used machine-learning strategies to predict pain severity and interference in 47 young women, ages 18 to 30, who experienced an incident of IPV (i.e., physical and/or sexual assault) within three months of their baseline assessment. Young women are more likely than men to experience IPV and to subsequently develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic pain. Women completed a comprehensive assessment of theory-driven cognitive and neurobiological predictors of pain severity and pain-related interference (e.g., pain, coping, disability, psychiatric diagnosis/symptoms, PTSD/trauma, executive function, neuroendocrine, and physiological stress response). Gradient boosting machine models were used to predict symptoms of pain severity and pain-related interference across time (Baseline, 1-,3-,6- follow-up assessments). Models showed excellent predictive performance for pain severity and adequate predictive performance for pain-related interference. This proof-of-concept study suggests that machine-learning approaches are a useful tool for identifying predictors of pain development in survivors of recent IPV. Baseline measures of pain, family life impairment, neuropsychological function, and trauma history were of greatest importance in predicting pain and pain-related interference across a 6-month follow-up period. Present findings support the use of machine-learning techniques in larger studies of post-IPV pain development and highlight theory-driven predictors that could inform the development of targeted early intervention programs. However, these results should be replicated in a larger dataset with lower levels of missing data.
Clinical dynamic visual acuity in patients with cerebellar ataxia and vestibulopathy
Authors: Dankova Michaela , Jerabek Jaroslav , Jester Dylan J. , Zumrova Alena , Paulasova Schwabova Jaroslava , Cerny Rudolf , Kmetonyova Silvia , Vyhnalek Martin
Published: July 2021

Deterioration of dynamic visual acuity (DVA) as a result of impaired vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) has been well described in peripheral vestibulopathies, however, changes in DVA in patients with degenerative cerebellar ataxias (CA) and its relation to VOR impairment in these patients has not yet been evaluated. Our aim was to assess the alterations of DVA in CA and to evaluate its relation to vestibular function. 32 patients with CA and 3 control groups: 13 patients with unilateral and 13 with bilateral vestibulopathy and 21 age matched healthy volunteers were examined by clinical DVA test, VOR was assessed by video Head Impulse Test and caloric irrigation. The severity of ataxia in CA was assessed by Scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia (SARA). Relationship between DVA and vestibular function in CA patients was examined by linear regressions. DVA impairment was highly prevalent in CA patients (84%) and its severity did not differ between CA and bilateral vestibulopathy patients. The severity of DVA impairment in CA was linked mainly to VOR impairment and only marginally to the degree of ataxia. However, DVA impairment was present also in CA patients without significant vestibular lesion showing that central mechanisms such as impairment of central adaptation of VOR are involved. We suggest that the evaluation of DVA should be a standard part of clinical evaluation in patients with progressive CA, as this information can help to target vestibular and oculomotor rehabilitation.
Quantifying the patient´s perspective in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: Psychometric properties of the SymptoMScreen questionnaire
Authors: Meca-Lallana José E. , Maurino Jorge , Pérez-Miralles Francisco , Forero Lucía , Sepúlveda María , Calles Carmen , Martínez-Ginés María L. , González-Suárez Inés , Boyero Sabas , Romero-Pinel Lucía , Sempere Ángel P. , Meca-Lallana Virginia , Querol Luis , Costa-Frossard Lucienne , Prefasi Daniel , Gómez-Ballesteros Rocío , Ballesteros Javier
Published: July 2021

Background

The assessment of self-reported outcomes in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is limited by the lack of validated disease-specific measures. The SymptoMScreen (SyMS) is a patient-reported questionnaire for measuring symptom severity in different domains affected by multiple sclerosis (MS), but has not been thoroughly evaluated in NMOSD. The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the SyMS in a sample of patients with NMOSD.

Methods

A non-interventional, cross-sectional study in adult subjects with NMOSD (Wingerchuk 2015 criteria) was conducted at 13 neuroimmunology clinics applying the SyMS. A non-parametric item response theory procedure, Mokken analysis, was performed to assess the underlying dimensional structure and scalability of items and overall questionnaire. All analyses were performed with R (v4.0.3) using the mokken library.

Results

A total of 70 patients were studied (mean age: 47.5 ± 15 years, 80% female, mean Expanded Disability Status Scale score: 3.0 [interquartile range 1.5, 4.5]). Symptom severity was low (median SyMS score: 19.0 [interquartile range 10.0, 32.0]). The SyMS showed a robust internal reliability (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.90 [95% confidence interval 0.86, 0.93]) and behaved as a unidimensional scale with all items showing scalability coefficients > 0.30. The overall SyMS scalability was 0.45 conforming to a medium scale according to Mokken’s criteria. Fatigue and body pain were the domains with the highest scalability coefficients. The SyMS was associated with disability (rho: 0.586), and physical and psychological quality of life (rho: 0.856 and 0.696, respectively).

Conclusions

The SyMS shows appropriate psychometric characteristics and may constitute a valuable and easy-to-implement option to measure symptom severity in patients with NMOSD.
A national retrospective study of the association between serious operational problems and COVID-19 specific intensive care mortality risk
Authors: Wilde Harrison , Dennis John M. , McGovern Andrew P. , Vollmer Sebastian J. , Mateen Bilal A.
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To describe the relationship between reported serious operational problems (SOPs), and mortality for patients with COVID-19 admitted to intensive care units (ICUs).

Design

English national retrospective cohort study.

Setting

89 English hospital trusts (i.e. small groups of hospitals functioning as single operational units).

Patients

All adults with COVID-19 admitted to ICU between 2nd April and 1st December, 2020 (n = 6,737).

Interventions

N/A

Main outcomes and measures

Hospital trusts routinely submit declarations of whether they have experienced ‘serious operational problems’ in the last 24 hours (e.g. due to staffing issues, adverse weather conditions, etc.). Bayesian hierarchical models were used to estimate the association between in-hospital mortality (binary outcome) and: 1) an indicator for whether a SOP occurred on the date of a patient’s admission, and; 2) the proportion of the days in a patient’s stay that had a SOP occur within their trust. These models were adjusted for individual demographic characteristics (age, sex, ethnicity), and recorded comorbidities.

Results

Serious operational problems (SOPs) were common; reported in 47 trusts (52.8%) and were present for 2,701 (of 21,716; 12.4%) trust days. Overall mortality was 37.7% (2,539 deaths). Admission during a period of SOPs was associated with a substantially increased mortality; adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.34 (95% posterior credible interval (PCI): 1.07 to 1.68). Mortality was also associated with the proportion of a patient’s admission duration that had concurrent SOPs; OR 1.47 (95% PCI: 1.10 to 1.96) for mortality where SOPs were present for 100% compared to 0% of the stay.

Conclusion and relevance

Serious operational problems at the trust-level are associated with a significant increase in mortality in patients with COVID-19 admitted to critical care. The link isn’t necessarily causal, but this observation justifies further research to determine if a binary indicator might be a valid prognostic marker for deteriorating quality of care.
Assessment of genetic diversity and population structure of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) field genebank: A step towards molecular-assisted germplasm conservation
Authors: Gan Siou Ting , Teo Chin Jit , Manirasa Shobana , Wong Wei Chee , Wong Choo Kien
Published: July 2021

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) germplasm is exclusively maintained as ex situ living collections in the field for genetic conservation and evaluation. However, this is not for long term and the maintenance of field genebanks is expensive and challenging. Large area of land is required and the germplasms are exposed to extreme weather conditions and casualty from pests and diseases. By using 107 SSR markers, this study aimed to examine the genetic diversity and relatedness of 186 palms from a Nigerian-based oil palm germplasm and to identify core collection for conservation. On average, 8.67 alleles per SSR locus were scored with average effective number of alleles per population ranging from 1.96 to 3.34 and private alleles were detected in all populations. Mean expected heterozygosity was 0.576 ranging from 0.437 to 0.661 and the Wright’s fixation index calculated was -0.110. Overall moderate genetic differentiation among populations was detected (mean pairwise population FST = 0.120, gene flow Nm = 1.117 and Nei’s genetic distance = 0.466) and this was further confirmed by AMOVA analysis. UPGMA dendogram and Bayesian structure analysis concomitantly clustered the 12 populations into eight genetic groups. The best core collection assembled by Core Hunter ver. 3.2.1 consisted of 58 palms accounting for 31.2% of the original population, which was a smaller core set than using PowerCore 1.0. This core set attained perfect allelic coverage with good representation, high genetic distance between entries, and maintained genetic diversity and structure of the germplasm. This study reported the first molecular characterization and validation of core collections for oil palm field genebank. The established core collection via molecular approach, which captures maximum genetic diversity with minimum redundancy, would allow effective use of genetic resources for introgression and for sustainable oil palm germplasm conservation. The way forward to efficiently conserve the field genebanks into next generation without losing their diversity was further discussed.
Urban children’s connections to nature and environmental behaviors differ with age and gender
Authors: Keith Ryan J. , Given Lisa M. , Martin John M. , Hochuli Dieter F.
Published: July 2021

Global conservation is increasingly reliant on young people forming meaningful connections with urban nature. However, interactions with nearby nature do not inspire all children and adolescents living in cities to act pro-environmentally. Our survey of over 1,000 school students from Sydney, Australia, revealed that 28% of respondents maintained strong nature connections. Younger students (aged 8–11) were more strongly connected with nature than their older peers (aged 12–14), and environmental behaviors were negatively associated with increasing age. Differences between boys and girls were less consistent, resulting in part from differential functioning of questionnaire items. Regardless, girls were more willing than boys to volunteer for conservation. Our findings suggest that policies designed to strengthen urban children’s nature connections will be most effective if they explicitly address the “adolescent dip” and other emerging demographic patterns, thereby ensuring all young people reap the health, wellbeing, and conservation benefits of connecting with nature.