bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The gut bacterial microbiome of the Threeridge mussel, Amblema plicata, varies between rivers but shows a consistent core community
Authors: Lawson Lauren A. , Atkinson Carla L. , Jackson Colin R.
Published: March 2022

Freshwater mussels are important for nutrient cycling and ecosystem health as they filter feed on their surrounding water. This filter feeding makes these bivalves especially sensitive to conditions in their environment. Gut microbial communities (microbiomes) have been recognised as important to both host organism and ecosystem health; however, how freshwater mussel microbiomes are organised and influenced is unclear.

In this study, the gut bacterial microbiome of Threeridge mussel, Amblema plicata, was compared across two river basins, five rivers, and nine local sites in the south‐eastern U.S.A. Mussel gut tissue was dissected, DNA extracted, and the microbiome characterised by high throughput sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene.

Planctomycetes, Firmicutes, and Cyanobacteria were the most common bacterial phyla within the guts of all sampled A. plicata. However, the relative abundances of these major bacterial phyla differed between mussels sampled from different rivers and river basins, as did the relative abundance of specific bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Despite these differences, a core microbiome was identified across all mussels, with eight OTUs being consistent members of the A. plicata microbiome at all sites, the most abundant OTU identifying as a member of the family Planctomycetaceae. Geographic distance between sites was not correlated with similarity in the structure of the gut microbiome, which was more related to site physicochemistry.

Overall, these results suggest that while physicochemical conditions affect the composition of transient bacteria in the Threeridge mussel gut microbiome, the core microbiome is largely unaffected, and a portion of the A. plicata microbiome is retained regardless of the river system.

How long transient bacteria remain in the gut, and to what extent these transient microbes aid in host function is still unknown. Core microbiota have been found to aid in multiple functions within animal hosts, and within freshwater mussels this core microbiome may aid in nutrient processing and cycling. Therefore, it is important to look at both transient and core microbes when studying the structure of freshwater invertebrate microbiomes.
Revisiting the cumulative effects of drought on global gross primary productivity based on new long‐term series data (1982–2018)
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Ju Weimin , Zhou Yanlian , Li Xiaoyu
Published: March 2022

Drought has broad and deep impacts on vegetation. Studies on the effects of drought on vegetation have been conducted over years. Recently, the cumulative effect of drought is recognized as another key factor affecting plant growth. However, global‐scale studies on this phenomenon are still lacking. Thus, based on new satellite based gross primary productivity (GPP) and multi‐temporal scale Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index data sets, we explored the cumulative effect duration (CED) of drought on global vegetation GPP and analyzed its variability across elevations and climatic zones. The main findings were as follows: (1) The cumulative effect of drought on GPP was widespread, with an average CED of 4.89 months. (2) CED of drought on GPP varied among vegetation types. Specifically, grasslands showed the longest duration, with an average value of 5.28 months, followed by shrublands (5.09 months), wetlands (5.03 months), croplands (4.85 months), savannas (4.58 months), and forestlands (4.57 months). (3) CED of drought on GPP changes with climate conditions. It decreased with the decrease of precipitation in the driest month (Pdry) and mean annual precipitation in tropical and arid climate zones, respectively. In both temperate and cold climate zones, CED of drought on GPP was shorter in areas with dry winter than that in areas with dry summer. It increased with the decrease of mean annual air temperature in tropical climate zones and decreased with the increase of summer temperature in temperate and cold climatic zones. (4) With increasing elevation, CED of drought on GPP showed a pattern of increasing (0–3000 m), then decreasing (3000–5000 m), and increasing again (>5000 m). Our findings highlight the heterogeneity of CED of drought on GPP, owing to differences in vegetation types, long‐term hydrothermal conditions, elevation, etc. The results could deepen our understanding of the effects of drought on global vegetation.
Key environmental and production factors for understanding variation in switchgrass chemical attributes
Authors: Hoover Amber N. , Emerson Rachel , Cortez Marnie , Owens Vance , Wolfrum Ed , Payne Courtney , Fike John , Crawford Jamie , Crawford Ryan , Farris Rodney , Hansen Julie , Heaton Emily A. , Kumar Sandeep , Mayton Hilary , Wilson Danielle M.
Published: March 2022

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a promising feedstock for bioenergy and bioproducts; however, its inherent variability in chemical attributes creates challenges for uniform conversion efficiencies and product quality. It is necessary to understand the range of variation and factors (i.e., field management, environmental) influencing chemical attributes for process improvement and risk assessment. The objectives of this study were to (1) examine the impact of nitrogen fertilizer application rate, year, and location on switchgrass chemical attributes, (2) examine the relationships among chemical attributes, weather and soil data, and (3) develop models to predict chemical attributes using environmental factors. Switchgrass samples from a field study spanning four locations including upland cultivars, one location including a lowland cultivar, and between three and six harvest years were assessed for glucan, xylan, lignin, volatiles, carbon, nitrogen, and ash concentrations. Using variance estimation, location/cultivar, nitrogen application rate, and year explained 65%–96% of the variation for switchgrass chemical attributes. Location/cultivar × year interaction was a significant factor for all chemical attributes indicating environmental‐based influences. Nitrogen rate was less influential. Production variables and environmental conditions occurring during the switchgrass field trials were used to successfully predict chemical attributes using linear regression models. Upland switchgrass results highlight the complexity in plant responses to growing conditions because all production and environmental variables had strong relationships with one or more chemical attributes. Lowland switchgrass was limited to observations of year‐to‐year environmental variability and nitrogen application rate. All explanatory variable categories were important for lowland switchgrass models but stand age and precipitation relationships were particularly strong. The relationships found in this study can be used to understand spatial and temporal variation in switchgrass chemical attributes. The ability to predict chemical attributes critical for conversion processes in a geospatial/temporal manner would provide state‐of‐the‐art knowledge for risk assessment in the bioenergy and bioproducts industry.
Vonoprazan non‐inferior to lansoprazole in treating duodenal ulcer and eradicating Helicobacter pylori in Asian patients
Authors: Hou Xiaohua , Meng Fandong , Wang Jiangbin , Sha Weihong , Chiu Cheng‐Tang , Chung Woo Chul , Gu Liqun , Kudou Kentarou , Chong Chui Fung , Zhang Shutian
Published: March 2022

Background and Aim

Duodenal ulcers, especially caused by increasingly drug‐resistant Helicobacter pylori, are a concern in Asia. We compared oral vonoprazan versus lansoprazole for efficacy (healing duodenal ulcers) and safety in non‐Japanese Asian patients.

Methods

In this phase 3, randomized (1:1), double‐blind, double‐dummy, parallel‐group, non‐inferiority study (April 5, 2017, to July 19, 2019), patients with ≥ 1 endoscopically confirmed duodenal ulcer, at 52 hospitals (China, South Korea, and Taiwan), received vonoprazan 20 mg once daily (QD) or lansoprazole 30 mg QD for 6 weeks maximum. Patients with H. pylori received bismuth‐containing quadruple therapy including vonoprazan 20 mg twice daily (BID) or lansoprazole 30 mg BID, for 2 weeks, followed by vonoprazan or lansoprazole monotherapy QD (4 weeks maximum). Endpoints were endoscopically confirmed duodenal ulcer healing (Week 4/6; primary) and H. pylori eradication (4 weeks post‐treatment; secondary); non‐inferiority margins were −6% and −10%, using a two‐sided 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Of 533 enrolled patients, one was lost to follow‐up and one withdrew (full analysis set: 531 patients [vonoprazan, n = 263; lansoprazole, n = 268]; 85.4% = H. pylori positive). Vonoprazan was non‐inferior to lansoprazole for duodenal ulcer healing (96.9% vs 96.5%; difference 0.4% [95% CI −3.00, 3.79]). H. pylori eradication rates were 91.5% (vonoprazan) and 86.8% (lansoprazole; difference 4.7% [95% CI −1.28, 10.69]). Vonoprazan and lansoprazole were well tolerated, with similar safety profiles, no new safety signals; no deaths occurred.

Conclusions

Vonoprazan was well tolerated and non‐inferior to lansoprazole for duodenal ulcer healing and achieved H. pylori eradication above the clinically meaningful threshold (90%), in non‐Japanese Asian patients.
Communication experiences of tracheostomy patients with nurses in the ICU: A scoping review
Authors: Tolotti Angela , Cadorin Lucia , Bonetti Loris , Valcarenghi Dario , Pagnucci Nicola
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The quality of care for tracheostomy and mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care units (ICUs) has improved considerably. However, the communication barrier attributable to these procedures generates many problems for patients, as they are unable to communicate effectively with family members and ICU healthcare professionals, especially nurses.

Aims

To describe (1) tracheostomy patients’ needs, emotions and difficulties when communicating with ICU nurses and (2) which strategies nurses and patients have adopted to improve their communication.

Methods

A scoping review was completed using the Joanna Briggs Institute method and following the PRISMA‐ScR Checklist. The research question was developed using the Population, Concept and Context framework. Five databases were searched. After screening, two researchers independently analysed the 75 papers, and finally, 19 studies were included in this review.

Results

All studies used a qualitative design. Seven adopted a phenomenological and two a hermeneutic approach, involving a total of 265 patients. Two main themes and four subthemes were identified: (1) the tracheostomy patients’ needs, emotions and difficulties communicating with ICU nurses (patients’ emotions, communication needs, and their content and difficulties) and (2) strategies that nurses and patients adopted to improve communication (communication strategies).

Conclusions

It is essential to develop effective communication with tracheostomy patients to ensure they feel relieved, safe and considered. Communication content should focus on information relating to the person's personal condition and active involvement in care.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is important to prioritise the communication process in tracheostomised patients and create the organisational conditions that foster effective communication processes. Developing training programmes for new or practising nurses is essential to instil greater awareness about this crucial fundamental need.
Retention of Different Attachment Systems for Digitally Designed Mandibular Implant Overdenture
Authors: Abdelaziz Medhat Sameh , Fawzy Aya Mohamed , Ghali Rami Maher , Nassar Hossam I.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Primary retention and gradual loss of retention of different attachment systems are important key factors in proper attachment selection; however, studies on attachment retention show a wide range of retention values concerning the same attachment system. This in vitro study uses a novel approach that utilizes a digitally designed and 3D‐printed reinforced overdenture, which has a digitally determined geometric center, in order to standardize results for future research and clinical work. This study aims to evaluate initial retention along with the gradual loss of retention at different time intervals between three types of stud attachments, retaining a digitally designed, reinforced mandibular overdenture after 5475 cycles simulating 5 years of attachment usage.

Materials and Methods

An epoxy model of an ACP Class I (American College of Prosthodontists) edentulous mandible was constructed. A fully computer‐designed surgical guide was employed after virtual denture design to place two implants according to prosthetically driven implant placement protocol. A metal meshwork with tissue stops was designed digitally to reinforce the denture and to carry the geometric center. The meshwork was incorporated into the denture‐intaglio surface, which was planned for attachment pickup. Forty‐eight digitally designed and metal‐reinforced 3D‐printed dentures were divided into four groups (12 dentures for each group). Loss of retention was measured to compare two novel Locator attachments (12 pairs of Locator R‐TX, 12 pairs of Locator F‐TX medium and low retention, with 12 pairs of ball and socket). Each group was subjected to an insertion and removal fatigue test resembling 5 years of patient usage. Retention values were recorded using a universal testing machine.

Results

Locator F‐TX medium and low retention showed loss of retention by 91.93% and 92.91%, after fatigue testing equivalent to 2 and 3 years of use, respectively. Ball and socket and Locator R‐TX showed loss of retention by 19.87% and 26.31%, respectively, after fatigue testing equivalent to 5 years of use.

Conclusions

Locator R‐TX attachment systems showed promising retention for implant overdentures compared to ball and socket attachments. The proposed digital technique of denture reinforcement is capable of standardizing results for research and clinical work.
Rare cases of vesicouterine fistula
Authors: Rahmita Maulidina Medika , Rodjani Arry , Wahyudi Irfan , Widia Fina
Published: March 2022

Case

Vesicouterine fistula (VUF) is the rarest form of genitourinary fistulas. As lower‐segment cesarean section becomes a more common mode of delivery, they have become the leading cause of VUF formation. We present four VUF patients with varied symptoms such as menouria, amenorrhea, with or without urinary incontinence. We diagnosed all of our cases through cystoscopy in conjunction with methylene blue dye test or hysteroscopy.

Outcome

We successfully repaired VUF in three open surgery instances and one laparoscopic case. To diagnose VUF, cystoscopy and hysteroscopy are still the gold standard. An expert surgeon's open or laparoscopic repair is effective and safe. The patients no longer experienced incontinence, cyclical hematuria (menouria), discomfort, or sexual dysfunction.

Conclusion

Cystoscopy and hysteroscopy remain the gold standard tool in diagnosing VUF. Open or laparoscopic repair performed by an experienced surgeon is an effective and safe technique with a successful outcome.
Risk factors for self‐reported insufficient milk during the first 6 months of life: A systematic review
Authors: Segura‐Pérez Sofia , Richter Linda , Rhodes Elizabeth C. , Hromi‐Fiedler Amber , Vilar‐Compte Mireya , Adnew Misikir , Nyhan Kate , Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael
Published: March 2022

The objective of this systematic review was to identify multifactorial risk factors for self‐reported insufficient milk (SRIM) and delayed onset of lactation (DOL). The review protocol was registered a priori in PROSPERO (ID# CDR42021240413). Of the 120 studies included (98 on SRIM, 18 on DOL, and 4 both), 37 (31%) studies were conducted in North America, followed by 26 (21.6%) in Europe, 25 (21%) in East Asia, and Pacific, 15 (12.5%) in Latin America and the Caribbean, 7 (6%) in the Middle East and North Africa, 5 (4%) in South Asia, 3 (2.5%) in Sub‐Saharan Africa, and 2 (1.7%) included multiple countries. A total of 79 studies were from high‐income countries, 30 from upper‐middle‐income, 10 from low‐middle‐income countries, and one study was conducted in a high‐income and an upper‐middle‐income country. Findings indicated that DOL increased the risk of SRIM. Protective factors identified for DOL and SRIM were hospital practices, such as timely breastfeeding (BF) initiation, avoiding in‐hospital commercial milk formula supplementation, and BF counselling/support. By contrast, maternal overweight/obesity, caesarean section, and poor maternal physical and mental health were risk factors for DOL and SRIM. SRIM was associated with primiparity, the mother's interpretation of the baby's fussiness or crying, and low maternal BF self‐efficacy. Biomedical factors including epidural anaesthesia and prolonged stage II labour were associated with DOL. Thus, to protect against SRIM and DOL it is key to prevent unnecessary caesarean sections, implement the Baby‐Friendly Ten Steps at maternity facilities, and provide BF counselling that includes baby behaviours.
How life history determines time scale sensitivity and extinction risk of age‐structured populations
Authors: Provost Mikaela M. , Botsford Louis W.
Published: March 2022

The long‐standing ecological interest in how environmental variability interacts with population dynamics to determine population variability and extinction risk has led to significant recent progress, but still lacks a direct connection to the role of a species' life history. Not only is environmental variability expected to increase with climate change, but the spectrum of environmental variability may shift, and there is a question about which life histories will be sensitive to such changes. To address this question for age structured populations, we compared environmental responses of 16 Atlantic cod populations with different life histories (longevities 7–17 years). We analyzed the sensitivities of these populations to high and low frequencies of environmental variability using simulations and analytical metrics of stability and transient dynamics to show that: 1) population's total sensitivity to all frequencies of environmental variability is greater at lower population density, and 2) the fraction of the population's total sensitivity to environmental noise at high frequencies is greater for populations with narrower spawning age distributions. Moreover, we show that population extinction risk depends on the frequency content of population variability; probability of extinction is greater when populations are less sensitive to high frequencies in the environment. These analyses indicate how changes in species' age structure, because of climate change or other anthropomorphic effects, could affect extinction risk, biodiversity and ecosystem services of age‐structured populations, especially if there are spectral shifts in the fraction of sensitivity to higher frequencies.
Evolution and Development of Ilizarov Technique in the Treatment of Infected Long Bone Nonunion with or without Bone Defects
Authors: Li Jun , Li Mingxin , Wang Wenzhao , Li Bohua , Liu Lei
Published: March 2022

The treatment of infected bone nonunion and bone defects is a considerable challenge in the orthopedics field. The standard clinical therapy methods include local free bone transplantation, vascularized bone graft, and the Ilizarov technique; the first two are controversial due to the iatrogenic self‐injury. The Ilizarov bone transport technique has been widely used to treat infected bone nonunion and bone defects, and good clinical effect has been demonstrated. Yet, it brings many related complications, which exerts additional suffering to the patient. The best treatment is to combine bone defect rehabilitation with infection control, intramedullary nail fixation, appropriate time for bone grafts, beaded type scaffold slippage and new Taylor fixation, reducing the external fixation time and the incidence of complications, thereby reducing the occurrence of patients' physical and psychological problems. This review focuses on the induction, summary and analysis of the Ilizarov bone transport technique in the treatment of infected long bone nonunion with or without bone defects, providing new ideas and methods for orthopedic disease prevention and treatment by the Ilizarov technique, which is following the development direction of digital orthopedics.
Posterior INFIX for Treating Unilateral Unstable Sacral Fractures
Authors: Qi Haotian , Geng Xin , Yu Xiaokun , Chen Wenhuan , Jia Jian , Tian Wei
Published: March 2022

Objective

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of the treatment of unilateral unstable sacral fractures by fixation with the posterior INFIX (posterior pelvic ring screw‐rod internal fxation).

Methods

Data of 60 patients with unilateral unstable sacral fractures who underwent surgery from March 2013 to March 2020 were retrospectively analyzed according to the selection criteria. All patients were associated with anterior pelvic ring injuries, and the operations were performed by the same team of surgeons. According to the different types of internal fixation, the patients were divided into two groups, which both included 30 patients: the posterior INFIX group and iliosacral screw fixation group. The demographic and clinical data of the two patient groups, such as age, sex, sacral fracture types based on the Denis classification, operation time, amount of intraoperative bleeding, intraoperative fluoros copy time, Majeed pelvic score at final follow‐up, and quality of fracture reduction based on Mears and Velyvis's imaging classification criteria were collected by the same researcher and compared statistically.

Results

All patients were continuously followed up for 23.17 ± 3.34 months (range, 12 to 46 months). All sacral fractures healed with an average healing time of 9.3 ± 2.24 months (range, 6 to 18 months). None of the patients had re‐displacement of the fracture or fixation failure. Compared to the iliosacral screw group, the posterior INFIX group patients had more intraoperative bleeding (t = 3.59, P < 0.001), shorter operation time (t = 4.49, P < 0.001), and shorter intraoperative fluoroscopy time (t = 6.26, P < 0.001). There were no statistical differences between the two groups in terms of age, sex, fracture type, Majeed score, and quality of fracture reduction (P > 0.05). In the posterior INFIX group, one patient had a superficial wound infection and one patient complained of discomfort due to a prominent fixation. In the iliosacral screw fixation group, one patient had intraoperative iatrogenic S1 nerve injury and vessel injury. The posterior INFIX fixation was a simpler manipulation with higher safety, shorter time of operation and intraoperative fluoroscopy, and similar clinical outcomes compared to iliosacral screw fixation.

Conclusion

For the treatment of unilateral unstable sacral fractures, the posterior INFIX fixation can be recommended in clinic application.
Identification of the rice genes and metabolites involved in dual resistance against brown planthopper and rice blast fungus
Authors: Chen Su , Sun Bo , Shi Zhenying , Miao Xuexia , Li Haichao
Published: March 2022

Brown planthopper (BPH) and blast disease jointly or individually cause big yield losses every year. To identify genes and metabolites with potential contributions to the dual resistance against both biotic‐stress factors, we carried out a transcriptome and metabolome analysis for susceptible and resistant rice varieties after BPH and rice blast infestations. Coexpression network analysis identified a modular pattern that had the highest correlation coefficients (0.81) after the BPH and rice blast (−0.81) treatments. In total, 134 phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway‐related genes were detected in this group. We found that the flavanone 3‐hydroxylase gene (OsF3H) had opposite expression trends in response to BPH and rice blast infestations whereas the OsF3′H had similar expression patterns. Genetics analysis confirmed that the OsF3H gene knockdown lines demonstrated the opposite resistance phenotypes against BPH and rice blast, whereas the OsF3′H knockout lines enhanced rice resistance against both pests. Consistently, our metabolomics analysis identified the metabolite eriodictyol, one putative essential product of these two genes, that was more highly accumulated in the resistant rice variety of RHT than in the susceptible variety MDJ. This study highlights a useful strategy for identifying more genes and metabolites that have potential synergistic effects on rice against to multiple biotic stresses.
Using a Responsive Survey Design to Innovate Self-Administered Mixed-Mode Surveys
Authors: Gummer Tobias , Christmann Pablo , Verhoeven Sascha , Wolf Christof
Published: March 2022

Implementing innovations in surveys often results in uncertainty concerning how different design decisions will affect key performance indicators such as response rates, nonresponse bias, or survey costs. Thus, responsive survey designs have been developed to better cope with such situations. In the present study, we propose a responsive survey design that relies on experimentation in the earlier phases of the survey to decide between different design choices of which—prior to data collection—their impact on performance indicators is uncertain. We applied this design to the European Values Study 2017/2018 in Germany that advanced its general social survey-type design away from the traditional face-to-face mode to self-administered modes. These design changes resulted in uncertainty as to how different incentive strategies and mode choice sequences would affect response rates, nonresponse bias, and survey costs. We illustrate the application and operation of the proposed responsive survey design, as well as an efficiency issue that accompanies it. We also compare the performance of the responsive survey design to a traditional survey design that would have kept all design characteristics static during the field period.
Yersinia enterocolitica in wild and peridomestic rodents within Great Britain, a prevalence study
Authors: Arden Kurt , Gedye Kristene , Angelin‐Bonnet Olivia , Murphy Ellen , Antic Dragan
Published: March 2022

Yersinia enterocolitica is a human pathogen transmitted via the faecal–oral route among animals and humans and is a major foodborne public health hazard. This study explores the role of Y. enterocolitica transmission at the livestock–wildlife interface and investigates the potential role wild and peridomestic rodents play as a source of this zoonotic pathogen. The total of 342 faecal samples collected from the seven rodent species and one insectivore was examined using an optimized protocol to culture and identify Y. enterocolitica. Positive samples were also bioserotyped for grouping and determination of sample pathogenicity. Wildlife species sampled in this study were separated into two sample groups: randomly sampled (brown rats, house mice, wood mice, bank voles, field voles and the common shrew), as well as targeted sampling (red and grey squirrels). The overall prevalence of Y. enterocolitica in the randomly sampled population was 3.73%. Brown rats were chosen as sentinel species and tested to determine if location (pig farm vs non‐pig farm) was a significant factor affecting Y. enterocolitica prevalence. In this study, location was not significant. All positive samples were found to be of biotype 1A, deemed non‐pathogenic. Three of the samples were serotype 09, six were serotype 27 and five had an unidentifiable serotype. This study represents the first time Y. enterocolitica has been identified in these species of wildlife within mainland Britain. In addition, this study's findings are entirely novel and overall with regard to field voles and common shrews. However, the role of wild and peridomestic rodents in the transmission of pathogenic Y. enterocolitica remains unknown, as this study was unable to detect the presence of pathogenic Y. enterocolitica strains in these species.
Clinical Isolate of a Multi-Antifungal-Resistant Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Kano Rui , Kimura Utako , Noguchi Hiromitsu , Hiruma Masataro
Published: March 2022

The multi-antifungal drug-resistant strain (NUBS21012) of
Trichophyton rubrum
was isolated from a patient with recurrent tinea corporis. The resistant strain encoded Phe at codon 393 instead of Leu (L393F) in the squalene epoxidase (
SQLE
) gene.
Development and Implementation of a Remote Enzyme Kinetics Laboratory Exercise
Authors: Bhattacharjee Abhishek , Johnson Eileen , Perez-Pinera Pablo , Jensen Karin
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic imposed many new challenges on educational systems and increased the demand for novel strategies for effectively teaching laboratory skills without in-person instruction and without access to laboratory space, including critical specialized equipment. While this novel remote instruction modality is compatible with teaching the theory behind experimental techniques, the lack of lab activities that enable learning of laboratory skills severely limits the outcome of instruction.
Viral Mimicry of Interleukin-17A by SARS-CoV-2 ORF8
Authors: Wu Xin , Xia Tian , Shin Woo-Jin , Yu Kwang-Min , Jung Wooram , Herrmann Alexandra , Foo Suan-Sin , Chen Weiqiang , Zhang Pengfei , Lee Jong-Soo , Poo Haryoung , Comhair Suzy A. A. , Jehi Lara , Choi Young Ki , Ensser Armin , Jung Jae U.
Published: March 2022

Patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 variants lacking open reading frame 8 (ORF8) have been associated with milder infection and disease outcome, but the molecular mechanism behind how this viral accessory protein mediates disease pathogenesis is not yet known. In our study, we revealed that secreted ORF8 protein mimics host IL-17 to activate IL-17 receptors A and C (IL-17RA/C) and induces a significantly stronger inflammatory response than host IL-17A, providing molecular insights into the role of ORF8 in COVID-19 pathogenesis and serving as a potential therapeutic target.
Genome Sequences of 408 SARS-CoV-2 Strains Obtained from Nasopharyngeal Swabs in La Araucanía Region, Southern Chile
Authors: Abanto Marin Michel , Leyton-Carcaman Benjamín , Vázquez Claudio , Durán-Vinet Benjamín , Bobadilla Katterin , Rodriguez-Ruiz Claudio , San Martín Andrés , Riquelme Pía , Baez Fernando , Carrasco María José , Rodríguez-Moretti Gloria , Cerda Álvaro , Saavedra Nicolás , Mora María de la Luz
Published: March 2022

Here, we announce the genome sequences of 408 strains of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) obtained from nasopharyngeal swabs in the Araucanía Region, Southern Chile. The genomes obtained are valuable to expand the availability of useful genomic data for future epidemiological studies of SARS-CoV-2 in Chile and worldwide.
Complete Genome Sequence of Enterococcus faecalis Siphophage Sigurd
Authors: Tomaszewski Adam , Mora Daniel , Clark James , Le Tram , Young Ry , Liu Mei
Published: March 2022

Enterococcus faecalis
is associated with antibiotic-resistant infections, and this study presents
E. faecalis
siphophage Sigurd. The 41,811-bp Sigurd genome is divided into two arms defined by long convergent predicted transcription units that are separated by a bidirectional rho-independent terminator. Sigurd has a small terminase that is closely related to
Bacillus subtilis
cos
phage phi105.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Bacillus
sp. strain YC2, an Isolate from the South African Medicinal Plant Pelargonium sidoides
Authors: Mqulwa Aza Z. , Chan Wai Yin , du Toit Lauren A. , Trollope Kim M. , Volschenk Heinrich
Published: March 2022

A rhizosphere-associated
Bacillus
species was isolated from
Pelargonium sidoides
DC (
Geraniaceae
) tubers, whose commercial extracts are used in respiratory tract infection treatment. Genomic data for
Bacillus
isolates associated with
Pelargonium sidoides
is lacking. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Bacillus
sp. strain YC2.
Cervicovaginal DNA Virome Alterations Are Associated with Genital Inflammation and Microbiota Composition
Authors: Kaelin Emily A. , Skidmore Peter T. , Łaniewski Paweł , Holland LaRinda A. , Chase Dana M. , Herbst-Kralovetz Melissa M. , Lim Efrem S.
Published: March 2022

HPV infection is an established risk factor for cervical cancer. However, more broadly, the role of the cervicovaginal virome in cervical cancer progression is not well understood.
Bifidobacterium lactis Probio-M8 Adjuvant Treatment Confers Added Benefits to Patients with Coronary Artery Disease via Target Modulation of the Gut-Heart/-Brain Axes
Authors: Sun Baoqing , Ma Teng , Li Yalin , Yang Ni , Li Bohai , Zhou Xinfu , Guo Shuai , Zhang Shukun , Kwok Lai-Yu , Sun Zhihong , Zhang Heping
Published: March 2022

Despite recent advances in therapeutic strategies and drug treatments (e.g., statins) for coronary artery disease (CAD), CAD-related mortality and morbidity remain high. Active bidirectional interactions between the gut microbiota and the heart implicate that probiotic application could be a novel therapeutic strategy for CAD.
Storage Temperature Is More Effective Than Lactic Acid Bacteria Inoculations in Manipulating Fermentation and Bacterial Community Diversity, Co-Occurrence and Functionality of the Whole-Plant Corn Silage
Authors: Bai Jie , Ding Zitong , Su Rina , Wang Musen , Cheng Mengyan , Xie Dongmei , Guo Xusheng
Published: March 2022

Increased understanding of effects of regulation measures on whole-plant corn silage is important from bacterial community succession, interaction network and predicted functions. According to alpha diversity and meta co-occurrence network, the bacterial communities were more sensitive to storage temperature than LAB inoculants during whole-plant corn ensiling.
Bryant’s sign as a manifestation of a retroperitoneal paraduodenal bleed and subsequent small bowel obstruction
Authors: Davis Amelia Leigh , Shepherd Talia , Cadogan Mike , Foo Jonathan
Published: March 2022

Bryant’s sign is defined as ecchymosis at the base of the penis and scrotum and is usually associated with a retroperitoneal bleed or ruptured aortic aneurysm. We report the case of a retroperitoneal paraduodenal bleed which presented with Bryant’s sign. Imaging confirmed a pancreaticoduodenal arcade microaneurysm and associated low-grade coeliac artery stenosis (Sutton-Kadir syndrome). Retroperitoneal bleeding can be life threatening and requires prompt diagnosis and management. However, diagnosis can be challenging due to the clinical variation in presentation. The rarity of presentation in this case caused significant uncertainty necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for diagnostic clarity and safe patient care.
Antithrombotic therapies for neurointerventional surgery: a 2021 French comprehensive national survey
Authors: Caroff Jildaz , Aubert Laurent , Lavenu-Bombled Cécile , Figueiredo Samy , Habchi Kamelia , Cortese Jonathan , Eugene Francois , Ognard Julien , Tahon Florence , Forestier Géraud , Ifergan Heloise , Zhu François , Hak Jean-Francois , Reyre Anthony , Laubacher Morgane , Traore Abdoulaye , Desilles Jean Philippe , Derraz Imad , Moreno Ricardo , Bintner Marc , Charbonnier Guillaume , Le Bras Anthony , Veunac Louis , Gariel Florent , Redjem Hocine , Sedat Jacques , Tessier Guillaume , Dumas Victor , Gauberti Maxime , Chivot Cyril , Consoli Arturo , Bricout Nicolas , Tuilier Titien , Guedon Alexis , Pop Raoul , Thouant Pierre , Bellanger Guillaume , Zannoni Riccardo , Soize Sebastien , Richter Johann Sebastian , Heck Olivier , Mihalea Cristian , Burel Julien , Girot Jean-Baptiste , Shotar Eimad , Gazzola Sebastian , Boulouis Gregoire , Kerleroux Basile
Published: March 2022

Background

Neurointerventionists lack guidelines for the use of antithrombotic therapies in their clinical practice; consequently, there is likely to be significant heterogeneity in antithrombotic use between centers. Through a nationwide survey, we aimed to obtain an exhaustive cross-sectional overview of antithrombotic use in neurointerventional procedures in France.

Methods

In April 2021, French neurointerventional surgery centers were invited to participate in a nationwide 51-question survey disseminated through an active trainee-led research collaborative network (the JENI-RC).

Results

All 40 centers answered the survey. Fifty-one percent of centers reported using ticagrelor and 43% used clopidogrel as premedication before intracranial stenting. For flow diversion treatment, dual antiplatelet therapy was maintained for 3 or 6 months in 39% and 53% of centers, respectively, and aspirin was prescribed for 12 months or more than 12 months in 63% and 26% of centers, respectively. For unruptured aneurysms, the most common heparin bolus dose was 50 IU/kg (59%), and only 35% of centers monitored heparin activity for dose adjustment. Tirofiban was used in 64% of centers to treat thromboembolic complications. Fifteen percent of these comprehensive stroke centers reported using tenecteplase to treat acute ischemic strokes. Cangrelor appeared as an emergent drug in specific indications.

Conclusion

This nationwide survey highlights the important heterogeneity in clinical practices across centers. There is a pressing need for trials and guidelines to further evaluate and harmonize antithrombotic regimens in the neurointerventional field.
Non-porous thrombi are less pervious and easier to be retrieved: implication from scanning electron microscopy study
Authors: He Yaode , Xu Jinjin , Zhong Wansi , Chen Zhicai , Zhou Ying , Li Jiaping , Luo Zhongyu , Lou Min
Published: March 2022

Background

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies found that the porosity of thrombi might vary among individuals. However, its relationship with the clinical presentation and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) remains unknown. We aimed to characterize the ultrastructure of thrombi and explore its association with the complexity of MT and clot perviousness.

Methods

SEM was used to observe the morphological features of different components of thrombi obtained from patients with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion undergoing MT and to determine the porosity of thrombi by semi-quantitative analysis. Non-porous thrombi were defined as thrombi with porosity <2%. Clot perviousness was also evaluated using thrombus attenuation increase on CT perfusion (TAIctp). We assessed the complexity of MT by attempts of retrieval >3 and procedural duration >60 min, defined as the time interval between groin puncture and recanalization.

Results

A total of 49 thrombi were analyzed and 31 (63.3%) were classified as non-porous thrombi. The presence of non-porous thrombi was negatively associated with procedure >60 min (OR 0.152, 95% CI 0.031 to 0.734, p=0.019) and attempts >3 (OR 0.194, 95% CI 0.046 to 0.822, p=0.026) after adjustment. Additionally, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that TAIctp<17.9 Hounsfield units could predict the presence of non-porous thrombi with an area under the curve of 0.915.

Conclusions

Non-porous thrombi on SEM are easier to be retrieved during MT and could be identified as less pervious clots on CT images.
Solar system tests for massive conformal gravity
Authors: Faria F. F.
Published: March 2022

We find the linearized gravitational field of a static spherically symmetric mass distribution in massive conformal gravity and test it with some solar system experiments. The result is that the theory agrees with the general relativistic observations in the solar system for a determined lower bound on the graviton mass.
A step towards meeting battery raw material demand: the geology and exploration of graphite deposits, examples from northern Norway
Authors: Gautneb Håvard , Rønning Jan Steinar , Larsen Bjørn Eskil
Published: March 2022

In northern Norway, we have identified more than 40 occurrences of graphite through airborne geophysical surveys and follow-up fieldwork. Out of these, 29 have been investigated in detail using ground-based geophysical methods. For 21 of these occurrences, in combination with surface sampling, it is possible to estimate approximately the grade and tonnage of graphite. The graphite deposits are concentrated in two areas: the island of Senja and the Lofoten–Vesterålen islands. The aggregated tonnage and average graphite grade are 8.1 Mt and 12.6% graphite, respectively. Data collected from 17 international deposits show similar averages of 30.7 Mt and 10.8% graphite. Thus, the Norwegian deposits show a similar span in tonnage and grade and are most likely typical for graphite deposits worldwide. Similarly, and common elsewhere, the Norwegian graphite deposits in a succession of high metamorphic grade supracrustal rocks, comprising meta-arenites, carbonates and garnet- and pyroxene-bearing gneisses of variable composition. In parts, this succession is migmatized. Two bench-scale ore-dressing trials show that the graphite can be upgraded to market quality. Our work demonstrates a successful approach for locating and evaluating graphite deposits by combining nearly all the methods used in economic geology investigations.
PoWareMatch: A Quality-aware Deep Learning Approach to Improve Human Schema Matching
Authors: Shraga Roee , Gal Avigdor
Published: March 2022

Schema matching is a core task of any data integration process. Being investigated in the fields of databases, AI, Semantic Web, and data mining for many years, the main challenge remains the ability to generate quality matches among data concepts (e.g., database attributes). In this work, we examine a novel angle on the behavior of humans as matchers, studying match creation as a process. We analyze the dynamics of common evaluation measures (precision, recall, and f-measure), with respect to this angle and highlight the need for unbiased matching to support this analysis. Unbiased matching, a newly defined concept that describes the common assumption that human decisions represent reliable assessments of schemata correspondences, is, however, not an inherent property of human matchers. In what follows, we design
PoWareMatch
that makes use of a deep learning mechanism to calibrate and filter human matching decisions adhering to the quality of a match, which are then combined with algorithmic matching to generate better match results. We provide an empirical evidence, established based on an experiment with more than 200 human matchers over common benchmarks, that
PoWareMatch
predicts well the benefit of extending the match with an additional correspondence and generates high-quality matches. In addition,
PoWareMatch
outperforms state-of-the-art matching algorithms.
Understanding the Importance of Cultural Appropriateness for User Interface Design: An Avatar Study
Authors: Aljaroodi Hussain M. , Adam Marc T. P. , Teubner Timm , Chiong Raymond
Published: March 2022

While previous research established that culture plays an important role in technology adoption, there is only limited work on the role of cultural appropriateness in user interface design for users from a specific background. In this study, we focus on the case of avatar design as a user interface element for facilitating positive user experience. Building on the theoretical lenses of social response theory and the “Computers Are Social Actors” paradigm, we develop a research model to investigate how cultural appropriateness of avatar design is a vital driver for users’ trust. We evaluate our research model by means of an online experiment (
n
= 313) in the context of online health advice for users from Saudi Arabia. The avatars differed in appearance (Arab, non-Arab), gender (male, female), and clothing (athletic, medical, everyday). Our results show that Arab avatars exhibited significantly higher cultural appropriateness than non-Arab avatars. Furthermore, participants were more inclined to select an Arab avatar (88.2%) that matched their gender (77.3%). Confirming the critical role of cultural appropriateness, our study demonstrates the importance of carefully considering the target audience in designing user interfaces.
AviSense: A Real-time System for Detection, Classification, and Analysis of Aviation Signals
Authors: Baset Aniqua , Becker Christopher , Derr Kurt , Sarkar Shamik , Kasera Sneha Kumar
Published: March 2022

Wireless systems are an integral part of aviation. Apart from their apparent use in air-to-ground communication, wireless systems play a crucial role in avionic functions including navigation and landing. An interference-free wireless environment is therefore critical for the uninterrupted operation and safety of an aircraft. Hence, there is an urgency for airport facilities to acquire the capability to continuously monitor aviation frequency bands for real-time detection of interference and anomalies. To meet this critical need, we design and build AviSense, an SDR-based
real-time
,
versatile
system for monitoring aviation bands. AviSense detects and characterizes signal activities to enable practical and effective anomaly detection. We identify and tackle the challenges posed by a diverse set of critical aviation bands and technologies. We evaluate our methodology with real-world aviation signal measurements and two custom datasets of
anomalous
signals. We find that our signal classification capability achieves a true positive rate of ∼99%, with few exceptions, and a false positive rate of less than 4%. We also demonstrate that AviSense can effectively distinguish between different types of anomalies. We build and evaluate a prototype implementation of AviSense that supports distributed monitoring.
High Temperature-Induced Oxidative Stress Affects Systemic Zinc Homeostasis in Broilers by Regulating Zinc Transporters and Metallothionein in the Liver and Jejunum
Authors: Xiao Chuanpi , Kong Linglian , Pan Xue , Zhu Qidong , Song Zhigang , Everaert Nadia
Published: March 2022

To investigate the change in zinc homeostasis of broilers under heat stress, 512 broiler chickens were raised to the age of 28 days. The broilers were then assigned to heat stress and normal temperature (36.0°C vs. 26.0°C) groups for 7 days. The results showed that oxidative stress induced by high temperature had a negative effect on the growth performance of broilers. Heat stress altered zinc homeostasis and led to a redistribution of zinc in broilers, which was reflected in increased zinc concentrations in the jejunum, liver, and tibia. Upregulation of the expression of the zinc exporter ZnT1 and importers ZIP8 and ZIP14 in the jejunum indicated that more zinc was absorbed and transported from the jejunum into the blood, while the liver increased its capacity to hold zinc through upregulation of metallothionein (MT) expression, which was achieved by reducing ZnT1 expression and upregulating the expression of the importer ZIP3. The pathway was mediated by zinc transporters, but the capacity of MT to chelate and release zinc ions also played a crucial role. The mechanism of alterations in zinc homeostasis under heat stress was revealed by the changes in zinc transporters and MT levels in the intestine and liver. Heat stress also altered cecal microbial diversity and reduced the relative abundances of Bilophila and Dialister. In conclusion, broilers altered systemic zinc homeostasis through the regulation of zinc transporters and MT in the liver and jejunum to resist oxidative stress induced by high temperature.