bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central blood pressure lowering effect of telmisartan‐rosuvastatin single‐pill combination in hypertensive patients combined with dyslipidemia: A pilot study
Authors: Choi JungMin , Sung Ki‐Chul , Ihm Sang‐Hyun , Yoon Chang‐Hwan , Park Seung Woo , Park Sung‐Ha , Kim Jang‐Young , Kwon Sung‐Uk , Lee Hae‐Young
Published: August 2021

This multicenter, phase 4, Prospective Randomized Open, Blinded End‐point (PROBE) study aimed to evaluate safety and efficacy of telmisartan/rosuvastatin single‐pill combination (SPC) therapy on lowering central blood pressure (BP) compared with telmisartan monotherapy in hypertensive patients with dyslipidemia in Korea. Study was terminated earlier than planned due to COVID‐19 pandemic, thus should be considered as a pilot study. Among 125 patients who met the inclusion criteria of hypertension and dyslipidemia (defined as 10‐year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease risk score over 5%), 80 patients went through 4‐week single‐group run‐in period with telmisartan 40–80 mg, then randomized to telmisartan 80 mg + rosuvastatin (10 or 20 mg) SPC group or telmisartan 80 mg monotherapy group. The central/brachial BP, brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), and augmentation index (AIx) were assessed at baseline and 16 weeks later. Mean brachial SBP changed from 135.80 ± 14.22 mmHg to 130.69 ± 13.23 mmHg in telmisartan/rosuvastatin group and from 134.37 ± 12.50 mmHg to 133.75 ± 12.30 mmHg in telmisartan monotherapy group without significant difference (between‐group difference p = .149). Mean central SBP were reduced significantly in the telmisartan/rosuvastatin group with change from 126.72 ± 14.44 mmHg to 121.56 ± 14.56 mmHg while telmisartan monotherapy group showed no significant change (between‐group difference p = .028). BaPWV changed from 1672.57 ± 371.72 m/s to 1591.75 ± 272.16 m/s in telmisartan/rosuvastatin group and from 1542.85 ± 263.70 m/s to 1586.12 ± 297.45 m/s in telmisartan group with no significance (between‐group difference p = .078). Change of AIx had no significant difference (between‐group difference p = .314). Both groups showed excellent compliance rate of 96.9 ± 4.5% with no significant difference in adverse rate. Telmisartan/rosuvastatin SPC therapy was more effective in lowering central BP compared with the telmisartan monotherapy. The results of this study showed benefit of additive statin therapy in hypertensive patients combined with dyslipidemia.
Dehydrozingerone inhibits renal lipotoxicity in high‐fat diet–induced obese mice
Authors: Lee Eun Soo , Kang Jeong Suk , Kim Hong Min , Kim Su Jin , Kim Nami , Lee Jung Ok , Kim Hyeon Soo , Lee Eun Young , Chung Choon Hee
Published: August 2021

Ectopic fat accumulation in the kidneys causes oxidative stress, inflammation and cell death. Dehydrozingerone (DHZ) is a curcumin analog that exhibits antitumour, antioxidant and antidiabetic effects. However, the efficacy of DHZ in diabetic nephropathy (DN) is unknown. Here, we verified the efficacy of DHZ on DN. We divided the experimental animals into three groups: regular diet, 60% high‐fat diet (HFD) and HFD with DHZ for 12 weeks. We analysed levels of renal triglycerides and urinary albumin and albumin‐creatinine ratio, renal morphological changes and molecular changes via real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting. Furthermore, high glucose (HG)‐ or palmitate (PA)‐stimulated mouse mesangial cells or mouse podocytes were treated with DHZ for 24 h. As a result, DHZ markedly reduced renal glycerol accumulation and albuminuria excretion through improvement of thickened glomerular basement membrane, podocyte loss and slit diaphragm reduction. In the renal cortex in the HFD group, phospho‐AMPK and nephrin expression reduced, whereas arginase 2 and CD68 expression increased; however, these changes were recovered after DHZ administration. Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) stimulated by HG or PA in podocytes was inhibited by DHZ treatment. Collectively, these findings indicate that DHZ ameliorates DN via inhibits of lipotoxicity‐induced inflammation and ROS formation.
Versatile effectors of phytopathogenic fungi target host immunity
Authors: Tariqjaveed Muhammad , Mateen Abdul , Wang Shanzhi , Qiu Shanshan , Zheng Xinhang , Zhang Jie , Bhadauria Vijai , Sun Wenxian
Published: August 2021

Phytopathogenic fungi secrete a large arsenal of effector molecules, including proteinaceous effectors, small RNAs, phytohormones and derivatives thereof. The pathogenicity of fungal pathogens is primarily determined by these effectors that are secreted into host cells to undermine innate immunity, as well as to facilitate the acquisition of nutrients for their in planta growth and proliferation. After conventional and non‐conventional secretion, fungal effectors are translocated into different subcellular compartments of the host cells to interfere with various biological processes. In extracellular spaces, apoplastic effectors cope with physical and chemical barriers to break the first line of plant defenses. Intracellular effectors target essential immune components on the plasma membrane, in the cytosol, including cytosolic organelles, and in the nucleus to suppress host immunity and reprogram host physiology, favoring pathogen colonization. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the recent advances in fungal effector biology, with a focus on the versatile virulence functions of fungal effectors in promoting pathogen infection and colonization. A perspective of future research on fungal effector biology is also discussed.
Successful surgical management of massive ovarian teratoma in a rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Sangwan Vandana , Anand Arun , Kumar Ashwani , Gupta Kuldip , Mahajan Shashi Kant
Published: August 2021

A 5 years‐old Rhesus macaque was presented with abdominal enlargement. The clinical, radiographic and ultrasonographic findings suggested that a massive mass occupying the whole of the abdomen. The mass was surgically removed, and histopathology confirmed ovarian teratoma. The macaque recovered uneventfully; however, the management to avoid self‐mutilation of skin sutures was challenging.
Congenital toxoplasmosis after adalimumab treatment before pregnancy
Authors: Krull Eloïse , Taraschi Gianmarco , El Amari Emmanuelle Boffi , Pellegrinelli Jean‐Marie , Martinez de Tejada Begoña
Published: August 2021

We present a case of congenital toxoplasmosis (TXP) in a woman with Toxoplasma gondii infection more than 6 months before conception. The woman has been treated with adalimumab for ankylosing spondylitis for 4 years until 5 months before conception. TXP serology at the first trimester was compatible with infection prior pregnancy. An ultrasound performed at 26 weeks gestation (WG) showed cerebral echogenic lesions compatible with intrauterine infection. Amniocentesis was performed which confirmed TXP fetal infection. Termination of the pregnancy was performed upon parent's requests and the fetal autopsy confirmed the diagnosis. Here, we discuss the potential role of immunosuppressive treatments, such as adalimumab, in the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis and the importance of counseling before pregnancy.
Detection of pathogens in blood or feces of adult horses with enteric disease and association with outcome of colitis
Authors: Kopper Jamie J. , Willette Jaclyn A. , Kogan Clark J. , Seguin Alexis , Bolin Steven R. , Schott Harold C.
Published: August 2021

Background

Rates of detecting ≥1 potential enteric pathogens (PEP) or toxins (PEP‐T) in feces, blood, or both of horses ≥6 months of age with enteric disease and impact of multiple detections on outcome of horses with colitis has not been reported.

Objective

To determine detection rates of PEP/PEP‐T in feces, blood, or both of horses with enteric disease and effect of detecting multiple agents on outcome of horses with colitis.

Animals

Thirty‐seven hundred fifty‐three fecal samples submitted to IDEXX Laboratories and 239 fecal and blood samples submitted to Michigan State University's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MSUVDL).

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of PEP/PEP‐T testing results was performed to determine rates of detection of 1 or more PEP/PEP‐T. Impact of detecting multiple agents on outcome was assessed in 239 horses hospitalized for colitis.

Results

One or more PEP/PEP‐T was detected in 1175/3753 (31.3%) and 145/239 (60.7%) of samples submitted to IDEXX Laboratories and MSUVDL, respectively. In a hospitalized cohort, survival to discharge was lower (76%) in horses with 1 agent, compared to horses with either no (88%) or multiple (89%) agents. There was no difference (P = .78) in days of hospitalization between horses with 0 (1–17), 1 (1–33), and > 1 positive (1–20) result. There was no difference in cost of hospitalization (P = .25) between horses with 0 ($2357, $1110‐15 553), 1 ($2742, $788‐11 005), and >1 positive ($2560, $1091‐10 895) result.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Detection rates of PEP/PEP‐T in horses with colitis vary with cohorts and tests performed. Detection of more than 1 PEP or PEP‐T did not affect outcome.
Reliability of monitoring acid‐base and electrolyte parameters through circuit lines during regional citrate anticoagulation‐continuous renal replacement therapy
Authors: Wang Fang , Dai Mingjin , Zhao Yuliang , Yang Yingying , Chen Zhiwen , Lin Li , Tang Xue , Zhang Ling
Published: August 2021

Background

The current practice involves blood sampling from the circuit line to measure acid‐base and electrolyte parameters during continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). However, there is limited evidence supporting its reliability due to the effects of anticoagulant mechanism and access recirculation associated with regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA).

Aim

To evaluate the reliability of monitoring acid‐base and electrolyte parameters through circuit lines in regular and reversed connections during RCA‐CRRT.

Study design

In this prospective cohort study, we included critically ill patients receiving RCA‐CRRT via a double‐lumen catheter. During the second hour after CRRT initiation, we collected blood samples to monitor acid‐base and electrolyte parameters and their levels were compared between samples from the circuit lines (at 0, 3, and 5 minutes) and those from the central venous catheter (CVC) line (at 0 minute). During this time, CRRT switched to the replacement state as controls.

Results

We observed 128 CRRT circuits in 60 adult patients receiving RCA‐CRRT. Ninety‐eight (76.6%) circuits had regular connections, while 30 (23.4%) had reversed connections. Among regular connections, no differences were observed in any acid‐base or electrolyte parameters between samples from the CVC line and those from the circuit line at all time points (P > .05). Among reversed connections, ionized calcium levels were dramatically decreased at all three time points in samples from the circuit line compared with those from the CVC line (0.65 ± 0.12, 0.72 ± 0.11, and 0.78 ± 0.99 vs 0.98 ± 0.07 mmol/L, P < .001), with comparable levels of other acid‐base or electrolyte parameters between the sampling patterns (P > .05).

Conclusions

Acid‐base and electrolyte parameters could be reliably monitored through the circuit line during RCA‐CRRT in regular connections. However, in reversed connections, pre‐filter ionized calcium concentrations determined through the circuit line were lower than those determined through the CVC line.

Relevance to clinical practice

We suggest sampling from arterial or CVC lines rather than from the circuit line in a reversed connection during RCA‐CRRT.
Association between the posterior ocular contour pattern and progression of myopia in children: A prospective study based on OCT imaging
Authors: Xu Shengsong , Hu Yin , Cui Dongmei , Zhao Feng , Jiang Jinyun , Feng Zhibin , Li Cong , Li Zhouyue , Yang Xiao
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to reveal the relationship between the posterior ocular contour and the subsequent progression of myopia in children.

Methods

Children aged 8–12 years with myopia received baseline measurements and were instructed to wear their glasses every day and return for a follow‐up visit after one year. Axial length and other ocular parameters were measured using a noncontact biometer. The contour of the posterior eye was calculated and analysed based on images from spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT). Univariate and multivariate linear regression models were created to analyse the relationship between the contour of the posterior eye and the progression of myopia.

Results

Baseline posterior ocular contour measurements correlated with baseline axial length and spherical equivalent refraction (SER) (all p < 0.05). Eyes that were more myopic tended to have a more prolate posterior ocular contour. Although the baseline contour of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and chorioscleral interface (CSI) showed no significant relationship with the progression of myopia (all p > 0.05), interestingly, when the baseline contour of the RPE was more prolate than that of the CSI, the axial length increased during the following year (R2 = 0.62; p < 0.01). The multivariate model, when adjusted for other variables, further validated the independent role of this variable.

Conclusions

The difference between the RPE and CSI contours correlated with the subsequent progression of myopia in children. This finding can help inform clinicians regarding the management of children at the onset of myopia and potentially provide an avenue for experimental research on the mechanism of myopia development.
Clinical factors affecting pupillary light reflex parameters: a single‐centre, cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ishikawa Masaaki
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of stimulus intensity, aging, sex, smoking and eye symmetry on pupillary light reflex (PLR) parameters.

Methods

We evaluated 2812 eyes from 1406 subjects in a single‐centre, cross‐sectional study. PLR data were collected using four different stimulus intensities. We prepared two models for each of the eight PLR parameters, and defined the model with the lowest values of Akaike's information criterion (AIC) as being the best‐fit. Model A was a linear regression model without adjustment for among‐individual variability, while the Model B linear mixed‐effects models (LMMs) were adjusted for among‐individual variability. The regression coefficients of the two models were compared.

Results

Model B showed the lowest AIC values for all parameters and the best fit. For light stimulus intensity, age and eye symmetry, the two models yielded similar results for all PLR parameters. For sex and smoking index, some PLR parameters showed the opposite results, i.e., Model A showed significant effects while Model B did not.

Conclusion

These results indicate that light stimulus intensity, aging, sex, smoking and eye symmetry are factors that affect PLR parameters. These should be adjusted when evaluating the clinical potential of PLR as a diagnostic tool. In addition, adjusting for among‐individual variability due to LMMs can improve the model fit and reduce false positives. This can reveal the association between clinical factors and PLR parameters with increased accuracy.
A New Approach to the Gender Pay Gap Decomposition by Economic Activity
Authors: Lombardía María José , López-Vizcaíno Esther , Rueda Cristina
Published: August 2021

The aim of this paper is to present an original approach to estimate the gender pay gap (GPG). We propose a model-based decomposition, similar to the most popular approaches, where the first component measures differences in group characteristics and the second component measures the unexplained effect; the latter being the real gap. The novel approach incorporates model selection and bias correction. The pay gap problem in a small area context is considered in this paper, although the approach is flexible to be applied to other contexts. Specifically, the methodology is validated for analysing wage differentials by economic activities in the region of Galicia (Spain) and by analysing simulated data from an experimental design that imitates the generation of real data. The good performance of the proposed estimators is shown in both cases, specifically when compared with those obtained from the widely used Oaxaca–Blinder approach.
Biomineralization processes in modern calcareous tufa: Possible roles of viruses, vesicles and extracellular polymeric substances (Corvino Valley – Southern Italy)
Authors: Perri Edoardo , Słowakiewicz Mirosław , Perrotta Ida D. , Tucker Maurice E.
Published: August 2021

A modern lithifying biofilm, associated with fluvial calcareous tufa in southern Italy, is composed of a complex community of micro‐organisms including autotrophic and heterotrophic bacteria, together with likely viruses (bacteriophages) and bacterial vesicles. Produced by most of the bacterial forms, extracellular polymeric substances are widespread and are the main sites of mineral precipitation, rather than the microbial cells themselves, but viruses and vesicles also appear to be mineralized. Neoformed biominerals replace these organic substrates starting with an amorphous phase rich in Ca, Si and several other cations followed by two different types of proto‐crystal: a granular−irregular Ca‐rich type and a lamellar/fibrous Si‐Al‐Mg‐rich type. Their growth leads to the formation of Ca‐carbonate and Mg‐silicate crystals that preserve their initial different habits. The coeval precipitation of silicate and carbonate at the initial stage of bio‐mediated mineral formation is a process common within freshwater and saline to hypersaline‐water calcareous microbialites. This is most probably related to the initial formation of poorly‐crystallized Mg‐Si phases that precipitate within the extracellular polymeric substances, related to the rise of pH in the zone of active oxygenic photosynthesis, and the mineralization of viruses, associated with the successive nucleation of Ca‐carbonate in close proximity to bacterial degradation of organic matter.
First‐person access to decision‐making using micro‐phenomenological self‐inquiry
Authors: Sparby Terje , Lumma Anna‐Lena , Edelhäuser Friedrich , Glaser Rosa , Schnitzler Luis , Weger Ulrich W.
Published: August 2021

Micro‐phenomenology is a method for improving first‐person reports of experience. Usually, micro‐phenomenology is conducted using a second‐person interviewer who guides someone investigating an experience. This has the advantage that the interviews can be done with untrained subjects. However, it is possible to perform micro‐phenomenological self‐inquiry, a form of self‐interview technique, without a second‐person interviewer. This has several advantages, such as being more time and cost effective. Questionable, however, is the possibility for untrained subjects to enquire into their own experience using micro‐phenomenology. The present study aims to test the reliability of micro‐phenomenological self‐inquiry with untrained subjects using a guiding document. We replicated an experimental design that has previously been employed to test whether micro‐phenomenology increases the reliability of reports. The experiment did not replicate. Reasons for this may be: (1) a methodological weakness of the previous study; (2) that the way the self‐inquiry format employed as part of the present study was ineffective; or (3) that micro‐phenomenological self‐inquiry requires training. These specific possibilities and the idea of testing the reliability of micro‐phenomenological reports in general are discussed. We conclude that the self‐inquiry format is not sufficient for conducing micro‐phenomenological studies and that training is required.
Death, Politics, and Heidegger’s Bremen Remarks
Authors: O’Brien Mahon
Published: August 2021

The controversy surrounding Heidegger’s remarks on the Holocaust in Bremen in 1949 erupted again recently, owing to some of the revelations concerning Heidegger’s antisemitism in recently published notebooks from the 1930s in particular. An overlooked dimension to this controversy within a controversy is the specific relationship between Heidegger’s account of being‐towards‐death in Being and Time and his remarks in Bremen in 1949. One of the most notorious passages from the Bremen lectures is best understood against the backdrop of Heidegger’s account of death in Being and Time where he distinguishes between the notions of death (as a way for Dasein to be) and perishing. In this article, we will revisit Heidegger’s account of being‐towards‐death and the concomitant notion of Dasein (as the way of being for the human being) before looking at the conflicting ways that he will invoke those ideas in subsequent work. We will further challenge the criticisms of Heidegger’s Bremen remarks in some recent literature and offer a competing interpretation.
Do suicidal thoughts and behavior persist following juvenile justice involvement?
Authors: Kemp Kathleen , Webb Margaret , Vieira Alyssa , Pederson Casey Anne , Spirito Anthony
Published: August 2021

Introduction

This study examines suicidal ideation and behavior of youth in the 3 months following their initial diversion appointment in the juvenile justice system.

Method

Participants were 99 adolescents (72.7% female; 65% racial minority) between the ages of 12 and 18 (Mage = 15.06, SD = 1.35) and a parent/caregiver (80% female; 54% racial minority; Mage = 42.7 years, SD = 8.9 years). Participants were eligible if they endorsed two or more suicide items on a mental health screener (MAYSI‐2) and were able to be contacted 3 months following initial court appointment. Youth and parent/caregiver responded to questionnaires assessing SI/SA, psychiatric symptoms, treatment motivation and engagement.

Results

Three months post‐initial court appointment, more than half of youth (55.5%) continued to flag on the Suicide Ideation subscale of the MAYSI‐2, though mean scores decreased from baseline to 3‐months (t[97] = 5.74, p < 0.000, 95% CI [−0.79, 1.62] Cohen's d = 0.77). There were no significant differences in parent/youth treatment motivation or engagement regardless of SI at 3 months.

Conclusions

Persistence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors beyond initial legal involvement highlights the importance of targeted suicide prevention interventions (beyond screening and referral to treatment) with justice‐involved youth, even at first court contact.
A new comprehensive annotation of leucine‐rich repeat‐containing receptors in rice
Authors: Gottin Céline , Dievart Anne , Summo Marilyne , Droc Gaëtan , Périn Christophe , Ranwez Vincent , Chantret Nathalie
Published: August 2021

Oryza sativa (rice) plays an essential food security role for more than half of the world’s population. Obtaining crops with high levels of disease resistance is a major challenge for breeders, especially today, given the urgent need for agriculture to be more sustainable. Plant resistance genes are mainly encoded by three large leucine‐rich repeat (LRR)‐containing receptor (LRR‐CR) families: the LRR‐receptor‐like kinase (LRR‐RLK), LRR‐receptor‐like protein (LRR‐RLP) and nucleotide‐binding LRR receptor (NLR). Using lrrprofiler, a pipeline that we developed to annotate and classify these proteins, we compared three publicly available annotations of the rice Nipponbare reference genome. The extended discrepancies that we observed for LRR‐CR gene models led us to perform an in‐depth manual curation of their annotations while paying special attention to nonsense mutations. We then transferred this manually curated annotation to Kitaake, a cultivar that is closely related to Nipponbare, using an optimized strategy. Here, we discuss the breakthrough achieved by manual curation when comparing genomes and, in addition to ‘functional’ and ‘structural’ annotations, we propose that the community adopts this approach, which we call ‘comprehensive’ annotation. The resulting data are crucial for further studies on the natural variability and evolution of LRR‐CR genes in order to promote their use in breeding future resilient varieties.
How Structural Features of a Spring-Based Model of Fibrous Collagen Tissue Govern the Overall Young's Modulus
Authors: Neubert Nathaniel , Evans Emily , Dallon J. C.
Published: August 2021

While much study has been dedicated to investigating biopolymers' stress–strain response at low strain levels, little research has been done to investigate the almost linear region of biopolymers' stress–strain response and how the microstructure affects it. We propose a mathematical model of fibrous networks, which reproduces qualitative features of collagen gel's stress–strain response and provides insight into the key features which impact the Young's modulus of similar fibrous tissues. This model analyzes the relationship of the Young's modulus of the lattice to internodal fiber length, number of connection points or nodes per unit area, and average number of connections to each node. Our results show that fiber length, nodal density, and level of connectivity each uniquely impact the Young's modulus of the lattice. Furthermore, our model indicates that the Young's modulus of a lattice can be estimated using the effective resistance of the network, a graph theory technique that measures distances across a network. Our model thus provides insight into how the organization of fibers in a biopolymer impact its Young's modulus.
Digital Twin for the Transient Temperature Prediction During Coaxial One-Side Resistance Spot Welding of Al5052/CFRP
Authors: Ren Sendong , Ma Yunwu , Ma Ninshu , Chen Qian , Wu Haiyuan
Published: August 2021

In the present research, a digital twin of coaxial one-side resistance spot welding (COS-RSW) was established for the real-time prediction of transient temperature field. A three-dimensional (3D) model of COS-RSW joint was developed based on the in-house finite element (FE) code JWRIAN-SPOT. The experimental verified FE model was employed to generate the big data of temperature of COS-RSW process. Multiple dimension interpolation was applied to process database and output prediction. The FE model can predict the thermal cycle on COS-RSW joints under different parameter couples. The interpolation effect of individual welding parameters was discussed, and a power weight judgement for welding time was essential to ensure accuracy. With the support of big data, the digital twin can provide visualization prediction of COS-RSW within 10 s, whereas numerical modeling needs at least 1 h. The proposed application of digital twin has potential to improve the efficiency of process optimization in engineering.
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor redux: Discovery of accessories opens therapeutic vistas
Authors: Matta Jose A. , Gu Shenyan , Davini Weston B. , Bredt David S.
Published: August 2021

Accessory proteins and nicotinic receptors

Acetylcholine was the first neurotransmitter identified, and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) were the first neurotransmitter receptors isolated. Recent studies have identified a multitude of molecules and mechanisms that regulate nAChRs in different tissues. In a review, Matta
et al
. discuss these discoveries and their implications for the cell biology and medicinal pharmacology of nACHRs. Many accessory factors promote the assembly and function of diverse nAChRs. Some factors are small molecules, some are proteins, some control receptor biogenesis, and some regulate channel gating. These protein chaperones and auxiliary subunits elucidate the pharmacological and physiological processes regulated by acetylcholine. —PRS
The alternative to despair is to build an ark
World Brain
H. G. Wells Foreword by Bruce Sterling and introduction by Joseph Reagle
MIT Press, 2021. 176 pp.
Authors: Benkler Yochai
Published: August 2021

H. G. Wells's “world encyclopedia” has merit beyond its seeming similarities to Wikipedia
Complete Genome Sequences of Mycobacterium Phages Tripl3t and Zeuska
Authors: Cox Faith , Lujan Tiffany , Bristerpostma Matthew , Sandoval Rheaven , Murphy Haze , Dowell Leah , Merrill Jaime , Edwards Julie , Edwards Dustin
Published: August 2021

Tripl3t and Zeuska are siphoviral bacteriophages that were isolated from
Mycobacterium smegmatis
mc
2
155 and contain double-stranded DNA genomes 53,565 bp and 53,598 bp in length, respectively. Tripl3t and Zeuska were annotated by students at Bluff Dale High School (Bluff Dale, TX) and Tolar High School (Tolar, TX) in community engagement with Tarleton State University.
Genotypic Characterization of Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Using Whole-Genome Sequencing
Authors: Abdalhamid Baha , Reslane Itidal , Mccutchen Emily , Iwen Peter C.
Published: August 2021

Multidrug-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is a serious threat worldwide causing health care-acquired infections and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This report describes the draft genome sequences of five multidrug-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
strains isolated from human infections.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Secondary Alcohol-Utilizing Methanogen Methanospirillum hungatei Strain GP1
Authors: Day Leslie A. , Costa Kyle C.
Published: August 2021

We report the complete genome sequence of
Methanospirillum hungatei
strain GP1 (DSM 1101). Strain GP1 oxidizes H
2
, formate, and secondary alcohols as the substrates for methanogenesis. Members of the genus are model organisms used to study syntrophic growth with bacterial partners, but secondary alcohol metabolism remains poorly studied.
Pulsed volcanism and rapid oceanic deoxygenation during Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a
Authors: Bauer Kohen W. , Bottini Cinzia , Frei Robert , Asael Dan , Planavsky Noah J. , Francois Roger , McKenzie N. Ryan , Erba Elisabetta , Crowe Sean A.
Published: August 2021

Widespread oceanic anoxia, biological crises, and volcanic activity are associated with the onset of Early Aptian (ca. 120 Ma) Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a (OAE1a). Reconstructions of oceanic deoxygenation and its links to broadly contemporaneous volcanism, however, remain poorly resolved. We use geochemical data, including δ53Cr ratios and rare Earth element abundances, to define the timing and tempo of submarine volcanism and global oceanic deoxygenation across this event. Pacific Ocean sediments deposited in the run up to OAE1a record multiple phases of marine volcanism associated with the emplacement of Ontong Java Plateau lavas. Rapid oceanic deoxygenation followed the initial phases of volcanism and a biocalcification crisis. Large swaths of the oceans likely became anoxic from the Tethys to the Pacific Oceans in <30 k.y. Oceanic anoxia persisted for almost one million years after this and was likely sustained through intensified continental and submarine weathering. These results paint a new picture of OAE1a in which volcanism, biological crisis, and oceanic deoxygenation are separated in time and linked through Earth system responses that operate on time scales of tens of thousands of years.
Spontaneous reheating of crystallizing lava
Authors: Whittington Alan G. , Sehlke Alexander
Published: August 2021

We show that recalescence, or spontaneous reheating of a cooling material due to rapid release of latent heat, can occur during disequilibrium crystallization of depolymerized Mg-rich melts. This can only happen at fast cooling rates, where the melt becomes undercooled by tens to hundreds of degrees before crystallization begins. Using a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera, we documented recalescence in pyroxene (Fe, Mg)SiO3 and komatiite lavas that initially cooled at 25–50 °C s–1. Local heating at the crystallization front exceeds 150 °C for the pyroxene and 10 °C for komatiite and lasts for several seconds as the crystallization front migrates through. We determined the latent heat release by differential scanning calorimetry to be 440 J g–1 for pyroxene and 275 J g–1 for komatiite with a brief power output of ∼100 W g–1 or ∼300 MW m–3. Recalescence may be a widespread process in the solar system, particularly in lava fountains, and cooling histories of mafic pyroclasts should not be assumed a priori to be monotonic.
The impact of postdepositional alteration on iron- and molybdenum-based redox proxies
Authors: Eroglu Suemeyya , Scholz Florian , Salvatteci Renato , Siebert Christopher , Schneider Ralph , Frank Martin
Published: August 2021

Ratios of (un)reactive iron species, authigenic molybdenum contents (Moauth), and molybdenum isotope compositions (δ98Moauth) in sedimentary rocks are geochemical proxies that are widely used to reconstruct past marine redox states, which have been calibrated in modern marine settings covering oxic to euxinic conditions. However, syn- and postdepositional processes can result in alterations and ambiguities of proxy-derived redox signals that can challenge the validity of paleoreconstructions. We present new data from modern organic-rich sediments of two oxygen minimum zone settings in the Gulf of California and the Peruvian margin. The results show that Mo is fully immobilized shortly after deposition by reaction with hydrogen sulfide (H2S) produced during organoclastic sulfate reduction. Thus, any H2S produced deeper in the sediment (e.g., by sulfate reduction coupled to anaerobic methane oxidation) leaves the initially deposited Mo concentrations and δ98Mo signatures unaltered, which supports the robustness of Mo-based redox proxies. In contrast, the Fe speciation data reveal continued pyritization due to constant exposure of Fe minerals to H2S. Importantly, both Fe bound to oxides and carbonates (highly reactive Fe) and also poorly reactive Fe (e.g., sheet silicates) undergo pyritization during early diagenesis. This process generates Fe-based proxy signatures that falsely imply ferruginous or euxinic conditions.
Suicidal behaviour in adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: protocol for systematic review of observational studies
Authors: Silva Junior Fernando José Guedes da , Miranda Priscilla Ingrid Gomes , Sales Jaqueline Carvalho e Silva , Parente Adriana da Cunha Menezes , Monteiro Claudete Ferreira de Souza , Costa Ana Paula Cardoso , Campos Luana Ruth Braga , Lima Larissa Alves de Araújo , Ibiapina Aline Raquel de Sousa , Pillon Sandra Cristina , Gonçalves Angélica Martins de Souza , Vieira Chrystiany Plácido de Brito , Galiza Francisca Tereza de
Published: August 2021

Introduction

COVID-19 pandemic has an impact on mortality indicators worldwide. Mitigation and repression actions to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease are necessary. However, they are criticised in the economic, social and psychological spheres. This social isolation, increased unemployment, routine changes, news of health complications and deaths related to COVID-19 can cause psychological repercussions that will certainly intensify in the coming months, and suicidal behaviour presents itself as a fatal outcome. It is necessary to know factors associated with suicidal behaviour in adults during the pandemic. Although there are studies, there is no systematic review to assess these factors, specifically in adults. The objective is to critically synthesise the scientific evidence on the factors associated with suicidal behaviour in adults in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods and analyses

A systematic review will be carried out, recommended by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol, in seven databases: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), ISI of Knowledge, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), SCOPUS, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (PsycINFO), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and ScienceDirect. Preliminary search was carried out on 30 July 2020 and will be updated in March 2021. No restrictions on publication date, study location or languages will be considered in this review. The preliminary research strategies were carried out on 30 July 2020 and will be updated in February 2021. To measure the agreement between reviewers at each screening stage, Cohen’s Kappa will be calculated. Primary outcome will be factors related to suicidal behaviour in adults during COVID-19 pandemic. Grouped standardised mean differences and 95% CIs will be calculated. The risk of bias in observational studies will be assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomised Studies (MINORS). Statistical heterogeneity will be assessed with the I2 statistic.

Ethics and disclosure

Ethical approval is not required, as primary data will not be collected. The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020208816.
Adaptation of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s ‘Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture’ to the Bosnia and Herzegovina context
Authors: Draganović Šehad , Offermanns Guido , Davis Rachel E
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Measuring staff perspectives on patient safety culture (PSC) can identify areas of concern that, if addressed, could lead to improvements in healthcare. To date, there is no validated measure to assess PSC that has been tested and adapted for use in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). This research addresses the gap in the evidence through the psychometric assessment of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s: ‘Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture’ (HSOPSC), to determine its suitability for the health system in BiH.

Setting

Nine hospitals.

Participants

Healthcare professionals (n=1429); nurse (n=823), doctors (n=328), other clinical personnel (n=111), non-clinical personnel (n=60), other (n=64), no response (n=43).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

A translated version of HSOPSC was used to conduct psychometric evaluation including exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Comparison between the original HSOPSC and the newly adapted ‘Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture for Bosnia and Herzegovina’ (HSOPSC-BiH) was carried out.

Results

Compared with the original survey, which has 12 factors (42 items), the adapted survey consisted of 9 factors (29 items). The following factors from the original survey were not included in their original form: Communication Openness, Feedback and Communications about error, Overall Perceptions of Patient Safety and Organisational learning—Continuous Improvement. The results of the CFA for HSOPSC-BiH showed a better model fit compared with the original HSOPSC. The absolute and relative fit indices showed excellent model adjustment.

Conclusions

The BiH version of Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties, with acceptable to good internal consistency and construct validity. Therefore, we recommend the HSOPSC-BiH as a basis for assessing PSC in BiH. This survey could provide insight into patient safety concerns in BiH so that strategies to overcome these issues could be formulated and implemented.
Protocol for the evaluation of cost-effectiveness and health equity impact of a school-based tobacco prevention programme in a cluster randomised controlled trial (the TOPAS study)
Authors: Pulkki-Brännström Anni-Maria , Galanti Maria R , Nilsson Maria
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Despite a long-term downward trend in smoking prevalence, tobacco remains the number one risk factor for death and disability in Sweden. Globally, tobacco use generates a substantial economic burden for health systems and is also a major driver of socioeconomic inequalities in health. This article describes the planned cost-effectiveness and health equity impact evaluation of a multicomponent school-based programme to prevent the onset of tobacco use in adolescents.

Methods and analysis

Cost-effectiveness of the multicomponent Tobacco-Free Duo programme will be evaluated against the educational component of the same programme only. An incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) will be calculated in terms of the cost per case prevented using the trial primary outcome and within-trial payer costs. If the ICER is negative, an incremental net benefit ratio will be calculated. Robustness of the results will be assessed through one-way sensitivity analyses. The slope index of inequality will be computed to assess the potential impact of the Tobacco-free Duo programme on education-related inequalities in the onset of smoking and in adult smoking cessation, comparing the two trial arms.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the Regional Ethics Review Board, Umeå (registration number 2017/255-31). The Public Health Agency of Sweden commissioned the study. The findings will be disseminated internationally within academia and to national and local policy-makers.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN52858080; Pre-results.
Feasibility of implementingExtubation Advisor, a clinical decision support tool to improve extubation decision-making in the ICU: a mixed-methods observational study
Authors: Sarti Aimee J , Zheng Katina , Herry Christophe L , Sutherland Stephanie , Scales Nathan B , Watpool Irene , Porteous Rebecca , Hickey Michael , Anstee Caitlin , Fazekas Anna , Ramsay Tim , Burns Karen EA , Seely Andrew JE
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Although spontaneous breathing trials (SBTs) are standard of care to extubation readiness, no tool exists that optimises prediction and standardises assessment. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility and clinical impressions of Extubation Advisor (EA), a comprehensive clinical extubation decision support (CDS) tool.

Design

Phase I mixed-methods observational study.

Setting

Two Canadian intensive care units (ICUs).

Participants

We included patients on mechanical ventilation for ≥24 hours and clinicians (respiratory therapists and intensivists) responsible for extubation decisions.

Interventions

Components included a predictive model assessment, feasibility evaluation, questionnaires and interviews with clinicians.

Results

We enrolled 117 patients, totalling 151 SBTs and 80 extubations. The incidence of extubation failure was 11% in low-risk patients and 21% in high-risk patients stratified by the predictive model; 38% failed extubation when both the model and clinical impression were at high risk. The tool was well rated: 94% and 75% rated the data entry and EA report as average or better, respectively. Interviews (n=15) revealed favourable impressions regarding its user interface and functionality, but unexpectedly, also concerns regarding EA’s potential impact on respiratory therapists’ job security.

Conclusions

EA implementation was feasible, and users perceived it to have potential to support extubation decision-making. This study helps to understand bedside implementation of CDS tools in a multidisciplinary ICU.

Trial registration number

NCT02988167.
Implications of a travel connectivity-based approach for infectious disease transmission risks in Oceania
Authors: Cadavid Restrepo Angela , Furuya-Kanamori Luis , Mayfield Helen , Nilles Eric , Lau Colleen L
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The increase in international travel brought about by globalisation has enabled the rapid spread of emerging pathogens with epidemic and pandemic potential. While travel connectivity-based assessments may help understand patterns of travel network-mediated epidemics, such approaches are rarely carried out in sufficient detail for Oceania where air travel is the dominant method of transportation between countries.

Design

Travel data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Stats NZ and the United Nations World Tourism Organization websites were used to calculate travel volumes in 2018 within Oceania and between Oceania and the rest of the world. The Infectious Disease Vulnerability Index (IDVI) was incorporated into the analysis as an indicator of each country’s capacity to contain an outbreak. Travel networks were developed to assess the spread of infectious diseases (1) into and from Oceania, (2) within Oceania and (3) between each of the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) and their most connected countries.

Results

Oceania was highly connected to countries in Asia, Europe and North America. Australia, New Zealand and several PICTs were highly connected to the USA and the UK (least vulnerable countries for outbreaks based on the IDVI), and to China (intermediate low vulnerable country). High variability was also observed between the PICTs in the geographical distribution of their international connections. The PICTs with the highest number of international connections were Fiji, French Polynesia, Guam and Papua New Guinea.

Conclusion

Travel connectivity assessments may help to accurately stratify the risk of infectious disease importation and outbreaks in countries depending on disease transmission in other parts of the world. This information is essential to track future requirements for scaling up and targeting outbreak surveillance and control strategies in Oceania.
Screening and follow-up care for cognitive and emotional problems after transient ischaemic attack and ischaemic stroke: a national, cross-sectional, online survey among neurologists in the Netherlands
Authors: Slenders Jos , Van den Berg-Vos Renske , Visser-Meily Johanna , van Heugten Caroline , Kwa Vincent
Published: August 2021

Background

After stroke, many patients experience cognitive and/or emotional problems. While national guidelines recommend screening for these problems, actual screening rates might be limited.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the clinical practice at neurology departments regarding screening, information provision and follow-up care for cognitive and emotional problems after transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and ischaemic stroke.

Methods

A nationwide, cross-sectional, online survey was conducted between October 2018 and October 2019 among neurologists in all hospitals in the Netherlands.

Results

Neurologists in 78 hospitals were invited to join the survey, and 52 (67%) of them completed it. Thirty-one (59%) neurologists reported that screening for cognitive problems after TIA and ischaemic stroke was mostly or always performed. When cognitive screening was performed, 42 (84%) used validated screening instruments. Twenty-nine (56%) of the respondents reported that screening for emotional problems was mostly or always performed. When emotional screening was performed, 31 (63%) reported using validated screening instruments. Timing of screening and information provision was highly variable, and the majority reported that there was no protocol for follow-up care when cognitive or emotional problems were found.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that clinical practice at neurology departments is highly variable regarding screening, information provision and follow-up care for cognitive and emotional problems in patients after TIA or ischaemic stroke. Approximately half of the participating neurologists reported that screening was performed only sometimes or never for cognitive and emotional problems after TIA and ischaemic stroke.