bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coinfection patterns of two marine apicomplexans are not associated with genetic diversity of their polychaete host
Authors: Hiillos Anna‐Lotta , Rony Irin , Rueckert Sonja , Knott K. Emily
Published: June 2022

Coinfections of two or more parasites within one host are more of a rule than an exception in nature. Interactions between coinfecting parasites can greatly affect their abundance and prevalence. Characteristics of the host, such as genetic diversity, can also affect the infection dynamics of coinfecting parasites. Here, we investigate for the first time the association of coinfection patterns of two marine apicomplexans,Rhytidocystissp. andSelenidium pygospionis, with the genetic diversity of their host, the polychaetePygospio elegans, from natural populations. Host genetic diversity was determined with seven microsatellite loci and summarized as allelic richness, inbreeding coefficient, and individual heterozygosity. We detected nonsignificant correlations between infection loads and both individual host heterozygosity and population genetic diversity. Prevalence and infection load ofRhytidocystissp. were higher than those ofS. pygospionis,and both varied spatially. Coinfections were common, and almost all hosts infected byS. pygospioniswere also infected byRhytidocystissp.Rhytidocystissp. infection load was significantly higher in dual infections. Our results suggest that factors other than host genetic diversity might be more important in marine apicomplexan infection patterns and experimental approaches would be needed to further determine how interactions between the apicomplexans and their host influence infection.
A Novel multi‐fruit acids formula design on molecular basis for skin brightening via a system biology approach
Authors: Guo Jiahong , Ma Xiaoyu , Bouffard Fernando , Zhang Sophia Yi
Published: June 2022

Background

Fruit acids have long been recognized as highly effective actives with world‐wide popularity, covering skin peeling, anti‐acne, anti‐wrinkle applications, and skin depigmentation.

Aims

There are complicated interconnections between the fruit acid formula and skin pigmentation behaviors. However, the lack of systematic researches on multi‐ingredient formula restricted our understanding on its mechanism. Therefore, it is of great necessity to study the interactions and cascades among components, potential gene targets, signaling pathways, and biological processes via a system biology approach.

Methods

We used system biology, molecular fingerprint, and structural biology to calculate and collect target information of the functional formula. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis was further applied to study the biological processes and pathways of the formula, and a multi‐level network model of “component ‐ molecular target ‐ signaling pathway ‐ skin disease” was established. Besides, the zebrafish model was utilized to verify the formula.

Results

We obtained 69 hub targets by constructing a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network based on the intersection between multi‐fruit acids formula (mandelic acid, lactobionic acid, niacinamide, and hydroxytyrosol) and skin indications targets (whitening‐sebum balance). In vitro zebrafish models, including pigmentation, antioxidant, and radiation protection models, showed that the current formula significantly alleviated pigmentation intensity and intracellular free radical content, thus proving the efficacy of skin brightening and UV irradiation protection.

Conclusions

This research uncovered the underlying mechanism of multi‐fruit acids formula and predicted its function in skin brightening and UV irradiation prevention.
Experience of antidepressant use and discontinuation: A qualitative synthesis of the evidence
Authors: Crowe Marie , Inder Maree , McCall Cate
Published: June 2022

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject?

Rates of antidepressant prescribing have been increasing.

Antidepressants are not effective for many people.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

Participants described how in order to receive help they had to engage with a medical pathway in which their experiences were constructed as arising from a biochemical deficit.

Antidepressant prescribing was identified as being the only option available and was associated with stigma.

What are the implications for practice?

Mental health nurses have a role to play in providing treatment options for those experiencing depression.

Mental health nurses need to provide evidence‐based information about antidepressants support those experiencing depression to make informed choices.

Introduction

There are increased prescribing rates of antidepressants associated with an increase in the diagnosis of depression. However, antidepressants are not effective for many people. There is a gap in the existing literature for a synthesis of the experiences of those with lived experience of antidepressant use to better understand their use and impact given their ubiquitous use in mental health, primary care and other secondary and tertiary care settings. Mental health nurses play direct or indirect roles in both advocating for antidepressant use and monitoring adherence.

Aims

To identify how people prescribed antidepressants describe their experiences of the medication including its discontinuation?

Method

A meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies examining patients' experiences of antidepressant medication. Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO and Cochrane Library databases were searched in May 2021. One reviewer screened titles and abstracts. Two reviewers independently reviewed the retrieved papers for eligibility and data extraction. The data synthesis was conducted using thematic analysis. Two reviewers independently conducted quality appraisals.

Results

Twenty‐seven studies with a total of 2937 participants were identified for inclusion in this review. Four themes were identified across the studies: the only option available; stigma associated with ‘biochemical deficit’ not myself and the vicious cycle.

Implications for practice

Those seeking treatment for depression need to be provided with treatment options and evidence‐based information about anti‐depressants to provide them with the opportunity to make informed choices.
Increased rates of suicide ideation and attempts in rural dwellers following the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic
Authors: Salt Elizabeth , Wiggins Amanda T. , Cerel Julie , Hall Claire‐Marie , Ellis Misty , Cooper Gena L. , Adkins Brian W. , Rayens Mary Kay
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Those factors identified to increase the risk of suicide in rural dwellers were exacerbated by the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, specifically economic factors, substance use, access to health care, and access to lethal weapons. Because the effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 on suicide ideation and attempts in rural populations have not been fully characterized in published literature, this study compares: (1) the rates of suicide ideation and attempts between the 6 months affected by SARS‐CoV‐2 to same months of the preceding year (3/18/2020‐9/18/20; 3/18/2019‐9/18/19), (2) demographics (ie, age, sex, residence, race, and ethnicity), and (3) the locations in which the encounters were billed (inpatient, outpatient, and emergency department).

Methods

Deidentified claims data associated with patient encounters billed for Suicide Ideation and Suicide Attempt were grouped based on time period and analyzed using descriptive statistics, incidence rate ratio (IRR), 2‐sample t‐test, chi‐square test of association, or Fisher's exact test.

Findings

Suicidal ideation encounters increased in the 6 months post‐SARS‐CoV‐2 when compared to the 6 months of the prior year (IRR = 1.19; P < .001). Males (IRR = 1.27, P < .001), those residing rural areas (IRR = 1.22, P = .01), and Black, non‐Hispanic (IRR = 1.24, P = .024) were found to have increased rates of suicide ideation post‐SARS‐Cov‐2. In adults, White, non‐Hispanics (IRR = 1.16; P < .001) had increased rates of post‐SARS‐CoV‐2. In the pediatric subset, those who were aged 14‐17 (IRR = 1.50; P < .001), resided in rural areas (IRR = 1.61, P = .009), and idenitifed as Hispanic (IRR = 1.89; P = .037) or Black, non‐Hispanic (IRR = 1.61, P = .009) had increased rates post‐SARS‐CoV‐2.

Conclusions

Our study identified rural dwellers to be at increased risk for suicide ideation.
Perioperative outcomes in dogs and cats undergoing pancreatic surgery: 81 cases (2008‐2019)
Authors: Wolfe M. L. , Moore E. V. , Jeyakumar S.
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To identify and describe the type and frequency of perioperative factors in dogs and cats undergoing pancreatic surgery under referral care.

Methods

Medical records from a small animal surgical referral practice were retrospectively reviewed to identify dogs and cats that underwent pancreatic surgery between 2008 and 2019. Inclusion criteria included complete medical record, histopathology results and follow‐up of at least 14 days postoperatively or until death. Variables collected included signalment, history, presenting complaint, preoperative diagnostic results, intraoperative complications, surgical findings/procedures, postoperative complications and histopathology results. Cases were excluded if pertinent information or a histopathology report was missing from the medical record. The frequency of these variables was reported.

Results

There were 81 client‐owned animals identified that met the inclusion criteria (57 dogs and 24 cats). The most common pancreatic procedure performed in dogs was partial pancreatectomy 63.2% (36/57) and in cats was pancreatic biopsy 62.5% (15/24). The most common histologic diagnosis in dogs was pancreatic islet cell carcinoma 50.9% (29/57) and in cats was pancreatitis 41.7% (10/24). The overall mortality rate was 13.6% (11/81), with a 10.5% (6/57) mortality rate in dogs and a 20.8% (5/24) mortality rate in cats.

Clinical Significance

In this series of dogs and cats, pancreatic surgery under referral care carried a low to moderate mortality rate.
A randomised controlled dismantling trial of sleep restriction therapies for chronic insomnia disorder in middle childhood: effects on sleep and anxiety, and possible contraindications
Authors: Cain Neralie , Richardson Cele , Bartel Kate , Whittall Hannah , Reeks Joseph , Gradisar Michael
Published: June 2022

Sleep restriction therapies likely drive improvement in insomnia in middle childhood via increases in homeostatic sleep pressure (e.g., evening sleepiness). Increased evening sleepiness may also dampen comorbid anxiety symptoms; and reduced wakefulness in bed may reduce worry. However, sleep restriction therapies have never been evaluated as a standalone intervention in this population. The mechanism of action needs testing, as do effects on anxiety, and cognitive performance and parasomnias (possible contraindications). This randomised controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of two “doses” of sleep restriction therapy (sleep restriction therapy, bedtime restriction therapy), compared to a control condition (time in bed regularisation). A total of 61 children (mean [SD, range] age 9.1 [2.1, 6–14] years; 54% female) with chronic insomnia disorder received two weekly 60‐min treatment sessions with a psychologist. Sleep, sleepiness, anxiety, worry, cognitive performance, and parasomnias were measured pre‐treatment, across treatment, and at 4‐weeks post‐treatment. Both the sleep and bedtime restriction groups experienced reductions in total sleep time (d = 1.38–2.27) and increases in evening sleepiness (d = 1.01–1.47) during the 2‐week treatment, and improvements in insomnia (i.e., sleep onset latency;d = 1.10–1.21), relative to the control group. All groups reported improved anxiety and worry, yet there were no differences between the control and restriction groups (allp > 0.658). Time in bed increased at the 1‐month follow‐up, and benefits to sleep and insomnia were maintained. There were no adverse effects on cognitive functioning (allp > 0.259), nor parasomnia occurrence (allp > 0.740). These results suggest that sleep restriction therapies are brief, yet effective, standalone interventions for insomnia in middle childhood, and improvements are likely due to increased sleepiness, not sleep regularisation.
Dvořák's Violin Concerto Reconsidered: Joachim's Influence, Bruch's Model and Romantic Innovations in Sonata Practice
Authors: Smith Peter H.
Published: June 2022

Dvořák's Violin Concerto in A minor, Op. 53, maintains a curious position among the finest Romantic‐era compositions of the genre. Although it holds a secure place in the concert repertoire, it has achieved neither the exalted status of Beethoven's and Brahms's violin concertos, nor the popularity of those by Mendelssohn, Tchaikovsky and Bruch. Scholars invariably cite the failure of the concerto's dedicatee, Joseph Joachim, to perform the work as evidence of his disapproval, and attribute that reputed disapproval to the first movement's truncated sonata form. These critics rely on Joachim's authority to shut the door precipitously, without detailed engagement with the concerto's technical attributes. The record of Joachim's participation in the concerto's creation calls into question this received wisdom and raises the possibility that Joachim may have encouraged Dvořák to pursue his unusual formal strategy. Short of that scenario, Joachim may not have discouraged the composer from following a path of inspiration originating in either his own imagination or the example of another violin concerto strongly influenced by Joachim's input – the Bruch G minor.

Comparison of the Dvořák and Bruch concertos supports the notion of a modelling and reveals Dvořák's immersion in many of the most innovative strategies that Romantic‐era composers adopted to reimagine late eighteenth‐century sonata conventions. Holistic analysis based on the theories of Caplin, Hepokoski and Darcy, and Schenker illustrates both the cogency of the first movement's sonata deformations and the centrality of the Adagio in overturning the tragic impact of the resulting formal ‘catastrophe’ in favour of a positive expressive outcome.
Unprocessed wheat γ‐gliadin reduces gluten accumulation associated with the endoplasmic reticulum stress and elevated cell death
Authors: Chen Qian , Yang Changfeng , Zhang Zhaoheng , Wang Zihao , Chen Yongming , Rossi Vincenzo , Chen Wei , Xin Mingming , Su Zhenqi , Du Jinkun , Guo Weilong , Hu Zhaorong , Liu Jie , Peng Huiru , Ni Zhongfu , Sun Qixin , Yao Yingyin
Published: June 2022

Along with increasing demands for high yield, elite processing quality and improved nutrient value in wheat, concerns have emerged around the effects of gluten in wheat‐based foods on human health. However, knowledge of the mechanisms regulating gluten accumulation remains largely unexplored.

Here we report the identification and characterization of a wheat low gluten protein 1 (lgp1) mutant that shows extremely low levels of gliadins and glutenins.

The lgp1 mutation in a single γ‐gliadin gene causes defective signal peptide cleavage, resulting in the accumulation of an excessive amount of unprocessed γ‐gliadin and a reduced level of gluten, which alters the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) structure, forms the autophagosome‐like structures, leads to the delivery of seed storage proteins to the extracellular space and causes a reduction in starch biosynthesis. Physiologically, these effects trigger ER stress and cell death.

This study unravels a unique mechanism that unprocessed γ‐gliadin reduces gluten accumulation associated with ER stress and elevated cell death in wheat. Moreover, the reduced gluten level in the lgp1 mutant makes it a good candidate for specific diets for patients with diabetes or kidney diease.
Reliability and Validity of Standing Lateral Radiograph Method for Measuring Acetabular Component Version: A Modified Cross‐table Lateral Radiograph Method
Authors: Zhang Wenhui , Xu Jie , Li Deng , Sun Hao , Cai Zhiqing , Chen Meiyi , Ma Ruofan
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To investigate the effect of the X‐ray incidence angle on cup version measurements and the reliability and validity of standing lateral (SL) radiography for measuring cup versions.

Methods

Cup versions under different X‐ray incidence angles were investigated by the 3D simulation analysis. Ninety‐three patients, who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) with postoperative SL radiographs and CT scans between April 2020 and December 2021, were retrospectively analyzed. SL radiography was taken under naturally standing position, correcting for the measurement error of pelvic tilt in cross‐table lateral (CL) radiography. Cup versions were measured on SL radiographs and CT images by two qualified orthopedic physicians. The intra‐ and inter‐observer reliabilities were assessed by intra‐class correlation coefficient. The consistency between radiographic and CT measurements was evaluated using Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

No significant differences in cup version measurements were observed between groups of different X‐ray incidence angles (P = 0.663) in the 3D simulation analysis. All measurements had excellent intra‐ and inter‐observer reliabilities, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of >0.95. Mean cup version measurements from SL radiographs correlated well with those from CT scans (r = 0.853, P < 0.001). The mean difference between radiographic and CT measurements was −0.49° (range −12.62° to 10.37°, SD 3.95°), and the majority of differences were within the 95% limits of agreement.

Conclusion

The cup versions measured with SL radiography were close to the CT measurements. SL radiograph method is reliable and valid for measuring acetabular component version after THA.
Benign acute childhood myositis: Factors associated with muscle symptoms and resolution
Authors: Öztürk Betül , Göktuğ Aytaç , Bodur İlknur , Yaradılmış Raziye Merve , Güneylioğlu Muhammed Mustafa , Güngör Ali , Tekeli Aysun , Akca Çağlar Ayla , Karacan Can Demir , Tuygun Nilden
Published: June 2022

Background

Benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) is associated with several viral infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the progression of myositis symptoms, laboratory findings and oseltamivir treatment in children with influenza‐ and non‐influenza‐associated BACM.

Methods

Patients aged 0–18 years old, admitted to the pediatric emergency department in the seasonal influenza period between 2018 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with acute onset calf tenderness, pain, difficulty in walking and elevated serum creatine phosphokinase were included and were grouped according to influenza rapid test kit results as influenza (A and B) positive, and influenza negative. The time to symptom resolution, laboratory data and the oseltamivir treatment were compared between the groups.

Results

There were 94 patients (67 male, 27 female) with a mean age of 77 ± 22 months. Influenza A was detected in 21, influenza B in 27, and neither were detected in 46 patients. Time to symptom resolution of BACM was shorter in the influenza‐positive patients than in influenza‐negative patients (2.9 ± 1.4 days and 3.5 ± 1.5 days, respectively, P = 0.027). Oseltamivir did not reduce the symptom resolution time in influenza patients. All children had normal hemoglobin and platelet counts, elevated creatine phosphokinase and 76% of them had leukopenia. Neither clinical recurrence nor metabolic disease were reported.

Conclusion

Symptoms of BACM tended to resolve slightly earlier in influenza‐positive patients and the duration of symptoms was not affected by oseltamivir treatment.
Association between economic wellbeing and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and remoteness during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Green Heidi , MacPhail Catherine , Alananzeh Ibrahim , Fernandez Ritin
Published: June 2022

Objective

The aim of this study is to explore the association between economic wellbeing and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and remoteness during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

A cross‐sectional study via SurveyMonkey was conducted in Australia between August 2020 and October 2020. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results

A total of 1211 individuals responded to the survey. Income loss was significantly associated with those from low socioeconomic status (OR = 1.65; 95% CI 1.01–2.68). Access of superannuation was significantly associated with those in outer regional (OR = 3.61; 95% CI 0.81–16.03) and low socioeconomic status (OR = 2.72; 95% CI 1.34–5.53). Financial inability to pay for services was significantly associated with living in remote areas (OR = 2.26; 95% CI 0.88–5.80).

Conclusions

The economic wellbeing of people who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, live in regional or remote areas, and reside in low socioeconomic areas have been substantially impacted during the pandemic. Findings call for policies to address the underlying social determinants of health.
The effect of helminth infection on vaccine responses in humans and animal models: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Natukunda Agnes , Zirimenya Ludoviko , Nassuuna Jacent , Nkurunungi Gyaviira , Cose Stephen , Elliott Alison M. , Webb Emily L.
Published: June 2022

Vaccination has potential to eliminate infectious diseases. However, parasitic infections such as helminths may hinder vaccines from providing optimal protection. We reviewed existing literature on the effects of helminth infections and their treatment on vaccine responses in humans and animals. We searched literature until 31 January 2022 in Medline, EMBASE, Global health, Scopus, and Web of science; search terms included WHO licensed vaccines and human helminth types. Standardized mean differences (SMD) in vaccine responses between helminth infected and uninfected or anthelminthic treated and untreated individuals were obtained from each study with suitable data for meta‐analysis, and combined using a random effects model. Analysis was stratified by whether helminth exposure was direct or prenatal and by vaccine type. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019123074). Of the 4402 articles identified, 37 were included in the review of human studies and 24 for animal experiments. For human studies, regardless of vaccine type, overall SMD for helminth uninfected/treated, compared to infected/untreated, was 0.56 (95% CI 0.04–1.07 and I2 = 93.5%) for direct helminth exposure and 0.01 (95% CI −0.04 to 0.07 and I2 = 85.9%) for prenatal helminth exposure. Effects of anthelminthic treatment were inconsistent, with no overall benefit shown. Results differed by vaccine type, with responses to live vaccines most affected by helminth exposure. For animal studies, the most affected vaccine was BCG. This result indicates that helminth‐associated impairment of vaccine responses is more severe for direct, than for prenatal, helminth exposure. Further research is needed to ascertain whether deworming of individuals before vaccination may help improve responses.
An examination of relations between baseline pupil measures and cognitive abilities
Authors: Robison Matthew K. , Coyne Joseph T. , Sibley Ciara , Brown Noelle L. , Neilson Brittany , Foroughi Cyrus
Published: June 2022

Examining individual differences in pupil size and pupillary dynamics have revealed important insights into the nature of individual differences in cognitive abilities like working memory capacity, long‐term memory, attention control, and fluid intelligence. These findings are often tied to the locus coeruleus‐norepinephrine (LC‐NE) system, as this system has a tight temporal correlation with pupil diameter. Some recent research has demonstrated positive correlations between resting pupil size and cognitive ability, specifically fluid intelligence. The present study attempted to replicate such relations. Across three studies, a large sample of participants (N= 845) completed batteries of cognitive ability measures and measures of resting pupil size and pupillary hippus (fluctuations in pupil diameter). The cognitive measures comprised tasks previously used to measure attention control, visual short‐term memory capacity, fluid intelligence, working memory capacity, and visuospatial ability. At the factor level, cognitive ability and pupil size correlated near zero. We did observe some limited evidence for a negative correlation between resting pupillary hippus and cognitive ability. Given the null findings in the present data, we encourage further replication of relations between resting pupil measures and cognitive abilities before making any strong theoretical conclusions about such relations.
Bid outcome processing in Vickrey auctions: An ERP study
Authors: Newton‐Fenner Alice , Tyson‐Carr John , Roberts Hannah , Henderson Jessica , Hewitt Danielle , Byrne Adam , Fallon Nicolas , Gu Yiquan , Gorelkina Olga , Xie Yuxin , Pantelous Athanasios , Giesbrecht Timo , Stancak Andrej
Published: June 2022

Online retailers often sell products using a socially competitive second‐price sealed‐bid auction known as a Vickrey auction (VA), an incentivized demand‐revealing mechanism used to elicit players' subjective values. The VA presents a situation of risky decision‐making, which typically implements value processing and a loss aversion mechanism. Neural outcome processing of VA bids are not known; this study explores this for the first time using EEG. Twenty‐eight healthy participants bid on household items against an anonymous, computerized opponent. Bid outcome event‐related potentials were predicted to differentiate between three conditions: outbid (no‐win), large margin win (bargain), and small margin win (snatch). Individual loss aversion values were evaluated in a separate behavioral experiment offering gains or losses of variable amounts but equal chances against an assured gain. Processing outcomes of VA bids were associated with a feedback‐related negativity (FRN) potential with a spatial maximum at the vertex (251–271 ms), where bargain win trials resulted in greater FRN amplitudes than snatch win trials. Additionally, a P300 potential was sensitive to win versus no‐win outcomes and to retail price. Individual loss aversion level did not correlate with the strength of FRN or P300. Results show that outcome processing in a VA is associated with FRN that differentiates between relatively advantageous and less advantageous gains, and a P300 that distinguishes between the more and less expensive auction items. Our findings pave the way to an objective exploration of economic decision‐making and purchasing behavior involving a widely popular auction.
Framing policies to mobilize citizens' behavior during a crisis: Examining the effects of positive and negative vaccination incentivizing policies
Authors: Goren Talia , Beeri Itai , Vashdi Dana R.
Published: June 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted the issue of mobilization policies, that is, government practices directed at making the mass public voluntarily perform various behaviors for the collective benefit during a crisis. As COVID‐19 vaccinations became accessible, governments faced the challenge of mass vaccination mobilization in order to achieve herd immunization. Aiming to effectively realize this goal, policy designers and regulators worldwide considered various mobilizing tools for vaccination compliance, including rewards and penalties, as they targeted vaccine opposers and hesitators, while trying to avoid the crowding‐out effect among individuals who were intrinsically motivated to get vaccinated. However, the unique circumstances of the Coronavirus pandemic may have eliminated the crowding‐out effect. Thus, our study explored the effect of regulation in the form of positive and negative incentivizing tools (i.e., rewards and penalties) during the coronavirus pandemic on vaccination intentions of 1184 Israeli citizens, prior to the national vaccination campaign. Results indicate that (1) both negative and positive incentives have a similar positive effect on individuals who declare they will not get vaccinated and those who hesitate to get the shot; (2) both positive and negative incentives induce the crowding‐out effect; and (3) negative incentives generate a larger crowding‐out effect in individuals who report preliminary intentions to get vaccinated, compared to positive ones. This emphasizes the need to avoid the crowding‐out effect during the current and similar crises, and suggests considering applying a gradual and adaptive policy design in order to maximize regulatory efficacy and compliance.
Effectiveness of influenza and pneumococcal vaccines on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations
Authors: Li Yan , Zhang Pingshu , An Zhijie , Yue Chenyan , Wang Yamin , Liu Yunqiu , Yuan Xiaodong , Ma Ying , Li Keli , Yin Zundong , Wang Liye , Wang Huaqing
Published: June 2022

Background and objective

Single‐study evidence of separate and combined effectiveness of influenza and pneumococcal vaccination in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is limited. To fill this gap, we studied the effectiveness of trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine (TIV) and 23‐valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23), separately and together, at preventing adverse COPD outcomes.

Methods

Our study used a self‐controlled, before‐and‐after cohort design to assess the effectiveness of TIV and PPSV23 in COPD patients. Patients were recruited from hospitals in Tangshan City, Hebei Province, China. Subjects self‐selected into one of the three vaccination schedules: TIV group, PPSV23 group and TIV&PPSV23 group. We used a physician‐completed, medical record‐verified questionnaire to obtain data on acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD), pneumonia and related hospitalization. Vaccine effectiveness was determined by comparing COPD outcomes before and after vaccination, controlling for potential confounding using Cox regression.

Results

We recruited 474 COPD patients, of whom 109 received TIV, 69 received PPSV23 and 296 received TIV and PPSV23. Overall effectiveness for preventing AECOPD, pneumonia and related hospitalization were respectively 70%, 59% and 58% in the TIV group; 54%, 53% and 46% in the PPSV23 group; and 72%, 73% and 69% in the TIV&PPSV23 group. The vaccine effectiveness without COVID‐19 non‐pharmaceutical intervention period were 84%, 77% and 88% in the TIV group; 63%, 74% and 66% in the PPSV23 group; and 82%, 83% and 91% in the TIV&PPSV23 group.

Conclusion

Influenza vaccination and PPSV23 vaccination, separately and together, can effectively reduce the risk of AECOPD, pneumonia and related hospitalization. Effectiveness for preventing AECOPD was the greatest.
Oral manifestations in patients diagnosed with psoriasis: A systematic review
Authors: Nery Fernanda Veiga Rodeiro , Souza Daniel Adrian Silva , Dantas Juliana Borges de Lima , Martins Gabriela Botelho , Reis Sílvia Regina de Almeida , Medrado Alena Ribeiro Alves Peixoto
Published: June 2022

Aims

To identify the main types of oral lesions associated with psoriasis.

Methods and Results

It was a systematic review, based on a search performed in the PubMed/Medline, and Scielo databases, and an associated manual search. Descriptors were selected from DeCs/MeSH and the PICOS strategy (population, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and study design) was applied. Randomized clinical trials and retrospective and prospective studies published from 2000 to 2022 were included, according to the PRISMA parameters (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis), registered in the PROSPERO platform. The STROBE quality scale (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology) was also used. One hundred fourteen articles were identified using the search strategy, and nine articles were found in the manual search. Of the sixty‐six preselected articles, seven were included in the study. Although it was not possible to identify a specific oral lesion associated with psoriasis, there was a greater occurrence of geographic tongue, fissured tongue, and Candida sp. infection

Conclusion

Evidence shows that although patients with psoriasis may exhibit lesions in the oral mucosa, they are not specific to this condition. Further epidemiological studies are needed to address the association of psoriasis with possible changes in the oral mucosa.
Numerical Simulation of a Subsea Pipeline Subjected to Underwater Explosion Loads With the Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) Method
Authors: Liu Zhenhui , Gudmestad Ove Tobias , Igland Ragnar
Published: June 2022

The relevance of the paper is the need for removal of a large number of UXO on the Norwegian continental shelf during the installation of subsea pipelines. Numerical simulations have been used to calculate the effect of an explosion, but normally with an assumption of free explosion space where the seabed is not included. The seabed effects are simply considered by exaggerating the explosive weight with an empirical factor. This paper tries to include the seabed in the simulation by using the Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) method. The effects of water, soil and the TNT are approached by using the Eulerian formulation with specified Equation of status (EOS). The steel pipe is approached by shell elements in a Lagrangian scheme. The strain rate effects on steel strength and failure strain have been considered through the Cowper and Symonds equation. The coupling between Eulerian and Lagrangian formulation is done by the general contact features provided by the Abaqus Explicit solver. Three offset distances (2.5 m, 5 m and 15 m) have been simulated. The simulation results are discussed in details with respect to the water, soil, TNT and pipeline deformations respectively. Additionally, the axial force is also discussed. It is shown that the present numerical model is able to capture the main characteristics of such a complicated physical process. The influence of the seabed has been shown explicitly in all the offset distances analyzed. The empirical factor method may give over-conservative results.
Comparison of Temperature Equilibrium Rate and Cell Growth/Viability Under Air Circulation in Cryogenic Storage Container
Authors: Park Jeong-Yeon , Lee Dong-Won , Lee Sunray , Lee Dong-Mok , Lee Jienny , Park Hyun-Sook , Yoon Gil-Sang
Published: June 2022

With advances in biotechnology, the field of cryopreservation has been continuously developed and improved. Typical cryo-container was designed with minimal flow to avoid possible structural defects in LN2 tank, which has a higher thermal conductivity than vapor nitrogen tank. If cells are placed in typical cryo-container and stored in VN2 tank, cross-contamination can be prevented, but the cell viability after thawing may be reduced. The structure of typical cryo-containers is not optimized for vaporized nitrogen to flow quickly into the container and its circulation well. Therefore, we proposed new cryo-container models that can maintain mechanical strength while optimizing the fluid flow structure, and performed thermal–structural coupled field analysis on cryo-containers. We confirmed the cryo-containers by comparing the equivalent stress distributions formed around through holes and evaluating thermal equilibrium in the cryogenic steady-state through flow analysis. Prototype cryo-containers and typical cryo-containers were placed in VN2 tank for a period of time to observe temperature changes. As a result, the time it takes to reach the temperature equilibrium has been reduced to 55% level compared with the typical cryo-containers. Additionally, C2C12 and hADMSC cells were checked after storage under two temperature conditions (−80 and −196 °C). In both cell, viability, adhesion, and relative cell proliferation were improved by up to 15–20% in new containers compared to typical products. The developed container is expected to maintain stability well by being applied to storage and transportation of advanced medicines that require cryopreservation.
Lessons from SARS-CoV-2 in India: A data-driven framework for pandemic resilience
Authors: Salvatore Maxwell , Purkayastha Soumik , Ganapathi Lakshmi , Bhattacharyya Rupam , Kundu Ritoban , Zimmermann Lauren , Ray Debashree , Hazra Aditi , Kleinsasser Michael , Solomon Sunil , Subbaraman Ramnath , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: June 2022

India experienced a massive surge in SARS-CoV-2 infections and deaths during April to June 2021 despite having controlled the epidemic relatively well during 2020. Using counterfactual predictions from epidemiological disease transmission models, we produce evidence in support of how strengthening public health interventions early would have helped control transmission in the country and significantly reduced mortality during the second wave, even without harsh lockdowns. We argue that enhanced surveillance at district, state, and national levels and constant assessment of risk associated with increased transmission are critical for future pandemic responsiveness. Building on our retrospective analysis, we provide a tiered data-driven framework for timely escalation of future interventions as a tool for policy-makers.
Meteorin-like promotes heart repair through endothelial KIT receptor tyrosine kinase
Authors: Reboll Marc R. , Klede Stefanie , Taft Manuel H. , Cai Chen-Leng , Field Loren J. , Lavine Kory J. , Koenig Andrew L. , Fleischauer Jenni , Meyer Johann , Schambach Axel , Niessen Hans W. , Kosanke Maike , van den Heuvel Joop , Pich Andreas , Bauersachs Johann , Wu Xuekun , Zheng Linqun , Wang Yong , Korf-Klingebiel Mortimer , Polten Felix , Wollert Kai C.
Published: June 2022

Effective tissue repair after myocardial infarction entails a vigorous angiogenic response, guided by incompletely defined immune cell–endothelial cell interactions. We identify the monocyte- and macrophage-derived cytokine METRNL (meteorin-like) as a driver of postinfarction angiogenesis and high-affinity ligand for the stem cell factor receptor KIT (KIT receptor tyrosine kinase). METRNL mediated angiogenic effects in cultured human endothelial cells through KIT-dependent signaling pathways. In a mouse model of myocardial infarction, METRNL promoted infarct repair by selectively expanding the KIT-expressing endothelial cell population in the infarct border zone.
Metrnl
-deficient mice failed to mount this KIT-dependent angiogenic response and developed severe postinfarction heart failure. Our data establish METRNL as a KIT receptor ligand in the context of ischemic tissue repair.
Microbial uptake in oral mucosa–draining lymph nodes leads to rapid release of cytotoxic CD8
+
T cells lacking a gut-homing phenotype
Authors: Barreto de Albuquerque Juliana , Altenburger Lukas M. , Abe Jun , von Werdt Diego , Wissmann Stefanie , Martínez Magdaleno Jose , Francisco David , van Geest Geert , Ficht Xenia , Iannacone Matteo , Bruggmann Remy , Mueller Christoph , Stein Jens V.
Published: June 2022

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract constitutes an essential barrier against ingested microbes, including potential pathogens. Although immune reactions are well studied in the lower GI tract, it remains unclear how adaptive immune responses are initiated during microbial challenge of the oral mucosa (OM), the primary site of microbial encounter in the upper GI tract. Here, we identify mandibular lymph nodes (mandLNs) as sentinel lymphoid organs that intercept ingested
Listeria monocytogenes
(Lm). Oral Lm uptake led to local activation and release of antigen-specific CD8
+
T cells that constituted most of the early circulating effector T cell (T
EFF
) pool. MandLN-primed T
EFF
disseminated to lymphoid organs, lung, and OM and contributed substantially to rapid elimination of target cells. In contrast to CD8
+
T
EFF
generated in mesenteric LN (MLN) during intragastric infection, mandLN-primed T
EFF
lacked a gut-seeking phenotype, which correlated with low expression of enzymes required for gut-homing imprinting by mandLN stromal and dendritic cells. Accordingly, mandLN-primed T
EFF
decreased Lm burden in spleen but not MLN after intestinal infection. Our findings extend the concept of regional specialization of immune responses along the length of the GI tract, with CD8
+
T
EFF
generated in the upper GI tract displaying homing profiles that differ from those imprinted by lymphoid tissue of the lower GI tract.
Thirty-Day Mortality Rates in Patients with Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing
Enterobacterales
Bacteremia Receiving Ertapenem versus Other Carbapenems
Authors: Park Jin Ju , Jung Eun-ju , Kim Jae-Young , Seo Yu Bin , Lee Jacob , Jung Younghee
Published: June 2022

Ertapenem is one of the carbapenems recommended for treating extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
Enterobacterales
. However, efficacy data are limited.
Genomic Analysis of Carbapenem-Resistant
Comamonas
in Water Matrices: Implications for Public Health and Wastewater Treatments
Authors: Hem Sopheak , Wyrsch Ethan R. , Drigo Barbara , Baker Dave J. , Charles Ian G. , Donner Erica , Jarocki Veronica M. , Djordjevic Steven P.
Published: June 2022

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global public health threat, and the increase in resistance to “last-resort drugs,” such as carbapenems, is alarming. Wastewater has been flagged as a hot spot for AMR evolution.
Comamonas
spp. are among the most common bacteria in wastewater and play a role in its bioaugmentation.
Single-Cell Imaging Shows That the Transcriptional State of the HIV-1 Provirus and Its Reactivation Potential Depend on the Integration Site
Authors: Janssens Julie , De Wit Flore , Parveen Nagma , Debyser Zeger
Published: June 2022

A longstanding question exists on the impact of the HIV-1 integration site on viral gene expression. This unsolved question has significant implications for the search toward an HIV-1 cure, as eradication strategies set up to reactivate and eliminate HIV-1 depend on the site where the provirus is integrated.
Risk factors for COVID-19 hospitalisations and deaths in Mexican children and adolescents: retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Martínez-Valdez Libny , Richardson López Collada Vesta , Castro-Ceronio Luis Enrique , Rodríguez Gutiérrez Ángela María , Bautista-Márquez Aurora , Hernandez-Avila Mauricio
Published: June 2022

Objective

To describe the epidemiology and risk factors for hospitalisation and death in Mexican children under 18 years of age with COVID-19.

Design

Retrospective, cross-sectional and analytical study.

Setting

Mexican Ministry of Health open databases with COVID-19 cases occurred from 7 March 2020 to 30 September 2021.

Participants

Mexican children under 18 years of age with COVID-19.

Main outcome measures

COVID-19 hospitalisations and deaths were characterised by age group, sex, presence of pneumonia and comorbidities, intubation and intensive care unit admission, and institution that provided medical care. Cumulative incidence, mortality, case fatality rates and ORs for hospitalisation and death were estimated by age group.

Results

5.5% (204 641) of national COVID-19 cases were children under 18 years of age: 2.9% under 1 year, 12.5% from 1 to 5 years, 15% from 6 to 9 years and 69.4% from 10 to 17 years. 4.6% of all cases were hospitalised, from which 54.6% were male, 35.3% were children under 1 year old, 39.6% were adolescents and 34% had pneumonia. Pneumonia developed in 2.3% of cases, from which 50% were adolescents. Case fatality rate was higher in children less than 1 year old (4.2%). Risk analyses showed that male sex (OR 1.16–1.28), history of pneumonia (OR 29.7–65.4), immunosuppression (OR 5.3–42.9), cardiovascular disease (OR 4.4–14.6) and other comorbidities (OR 5.4–19.1), as well as age less than 1 year (OR 20.1, 95% CI 18.8 to 21.4), confer a greater risk of hospitalisation; in addition to comorbidities, age less than 1 year (OR 16.6, 95% CI 14.1 to 19.6), history of pneumonia (OR 14.1–135.1) and being an adolescent from an indigenous community (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.23 to 5.54, p=0.012) increase the risk of death.

Conclusions

In Mexico, children less than 1 year old with COVID-19 have higher risk of hospitalisation and death than older children. Adolescents with COVID-19 in association with comorbidities develop adverse outcomes more frequently.
Acceptability of donor funding for clinical trials in the UK: a qualitative empirical ethics study using focus groups to elicit the views of research patient public involvement group members, research ethics committee chairs and clinical researchers
Authors: Shearman Kirstie , Masters Alexander , Nutt Dominic , Bowman Simon , Draper Heather
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The Plutocratic Proposal is a novel method of funding early phase clinical trials where a single donor funds the entire trial and in so doing secures a place on it. The aim of this study was to identify and explore concerns that may be raised by UK research ethics committees (RECs) when reviewing clinical trials funded in this way.

Design

Empirical ethics combining ethical analysis and qualitative data from three focus groups held online using Frith’s symbiotic approach. Data were analysed using inductive thematic approach informed by the study aims and ethical analysis.

Participants

22 participants were recruited: 8 research patient public involvement group members, 7 REC chairs and 7 clinical researchers. All were based in the UK.

Results

With one exception, participants thought the Plutocratic Proposal may be ‘all things considered’ acceptable, providing their concerns were met, primary of which was upholding scientific integrity. Other concerns discussed related to the acceptability of the donor securing a place on the trial including: whether this was an unfair distribution of benefits, disclosing the identity of the donor as the funder, protecting the donor from exploitation and funding a single study with multiple donors on the same terms. Some misgivings fell outside the usual REC purview: detrimental impact of donors of bad character, establishing the trustworthiness of the matching agency and its processes and optimising research funding and resources. Despite their concerns, participants recognised that because the donor funds the whole trial, others would also potentially benefit from participating.

Conclusions

We identified concerns about the Plutocratic Proposal. UK RECs may be open to approving studies if these can be addressed. Existing governance processes will do some of this work, but additional REC guidance, particularly in relation to donors securing a place on the trial, may be necessary to help RECs navigate ethical concerns consistently.