bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of a 3-day pretravel schedule of tafenoquine for malaria chemoprophylaxis: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Islam Nazmul , Wright Sophie , Lau Colleen L , Doi Suhail A R , Mills Deborah J , Clark Justin , Clements Archie C A , Furuya-Kanamori Luis
Published: April 2021

Background

Chemoprophylaxis with weekly doses of tafenoquine (200 mg/day for 3 days before departure [loading dose], 200 mg/week during travel and 1-week post-travel [maintenance doses]) is effective in preventing malaria. Effectiveness of malaria chemoprophylaxis drugs in travellers is often compromised by poor compliance. Shorter schedules that can be completed before travel, allowing ‘drug-free holidays’, could increase compliance and thus reduce travel-related malaria. In this meta-analysis, we examined if a loading dose of tafenoquine alone is effective in preventing malaria in short-term travellers.

Methods

Four databases were searched in November 2020 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed efficacy and/or safety of tafenoquine for chemoprophylaxis. Network meta-analysis using the generalized pair-wise modelling framework was utilized to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of malaria infection in long-term (>28 days) and short-term (≤28 days) travellers, as well as adverse events (AEs) associated with receiving loading dose of tafenoquine alone, loading dose of tafenoquine followed by maintenance doses, loading dose of mefloquine followed by maintenance doses, or placebo.

Results

Nine RCTs (1714 participants) were included. In long-term travellers, compared to mefloquine, tafenoquine with maintenance doses (OR = 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.44–2.46) was equally effective in preventing malaria, while there was an increased risk of infection with the loading dose of tafenoquine alone (OR = 2.89; 95% CI: 0.78–10.68) and placebo (OR = 62.91; 95% CI: 8.53–463.88). In short-term travellers, loading dose of tafenoquine alone (OR = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.04–22.42) and tafenoquine with maintenance doses (OR = 1.00; 95% CI: 0.06–16.10) were as effective as mefloquine. The risk of AEs with tafenoquine with maintenance doses (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: 0.67–1.60) was similar to mefloquine, while loading dose of tafenoquine alone (OR = 0.58; 95% CI: 0.20–1.66) was associated with lower risk of AEs, although the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

For short-term travellers, loading dose of tafenoquine alone was equally effective, had possibly lower rate of AEs, and likely better compliance than standard tafenoquine or mefloquine chemoprophylaxis schedules with maintenance doses. Studies are needed to confirm if short-term travellers remain free of infection after long-term follow-up.

Registration

The meta-analysis was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021223756).

Highlight

Tafenoquine is the latest approved drug for malaria chemoprophylaxis. A loading dose of tafenoquine (200 mg/day for 3 days before departure) is as effective in preventing malaria in short-term (≤28 days) travellers as chemoprophylaxis schedules of tafenoquine or mefloquine with maintenance doses, allowing travellers to have a ‘drug-free holiday’.
Stylometric analysis of Trump’s tweets
Authors: Savoy Jacques
Published: April 2021

This study analyzes the stylistic and rhetorical aspects of Trump’s tweets, focusing mainly on tweets sent during his electoral and presidential period. As stylometric findings should be based on a comparative basis, a corpus of tweets written by Obama during his presidency, and those posted by the White House account during the same period are employed to reveal Trump’s specific stylistic idiosyncrasies. In addition, the most characteristic words and tweet features are analyzed, indicating that Trump mainly refers to himself or to close relatives. This study points out that President Trump is always driving an electoral campaign, refers positively to a single news source, but generally I-words are not overused. Even if inappropriate words occur from time to time, their frequency level is lower than typical male Twitter users. Finally, Trump’s rhetoric can be characterized by a definite and negative tone without many references to people. His judgments are definitive and emphasized with grandiose adjectives.
Uniform labelled calculi for preferential conditional logics based on neighbourhood semantics
Authors: Girlando Marianna , Negri Sara , Olivetti Nicola
Published: April 2021

The preferential conditional logic $ \mathbb{PCL} $, introduced by Burgess, and its extensions are studied. First, a natural semantics based on neighbourhood models, which generalizes Lewis’ sphere models for counterfactual logics, is proposed. Soundness and completeness of $ \mathbb{PCL} $ and its extensions with respect to this class of models are proved directly. Labelled sequent calculi for all logics of the family are then introduced. The calculi are modular and have standard proof-theoretical properties, the most important of which is admissibility of cut that entails a syntactic proof of completeness of the calculi. By adopting a general strategy, root-first proof search terminates, thereby providing a decision procedure for $ \mathbb{PCL} $ and its extensions. Finally, semantic completeness of the calculi is established: from a finite branch in a failed proof attempt it is possible to extract a finite countermodel of the root sequent. The latter result gives a constructive proof of the finite model property of all the logics considered.
Logics of formal inconsistency based on distributive involutive residuated lattices
Authors: Esteva F , Figallo-Orellano A , Flaminio T , Godo L
Published: April 2021

The aim of this paper is to develop an algebraic and logical study of certain paraconsistent systems, from the family of the logics of formal inconsistency (LFIs), which are definable from the degree-preserving companions of logics of distributive involutive residuated lattices ($\textrm {dIRL}$s) with a consistency operator, the latter including as particular cases, Nelson logic ($\textsf {NL}$), involutive monoidal t-norm based logic ($\textsf {IMTL}$) or nilpotent minimum ($\textsf {NM}$) logic. To this end, we first algebraically study enriched dIRLs with suitable consistency operators. In fact, we consider three classes of consistency operators, leading respectively to three subquasivarieties of such expanded residuated lattices. We characterize the simple and subdirectly irreducible members of these quasivarieties, and we extend Sendlewski’s representation results for the case of Nelson lattices with consistency operators. Finally, we define and axiomatize the logics of three quasivarieties of $ \textrm {dIRL}$s and their corresponding degree-preserving companions that belong to the family of LFIs.
A Qualitative Study of Perceptions and Practices Related to Areca Nut Use Among Adolescents in Mumbai, India
Authors: Chatterjee Nilesh , Gupte Himanshu A , Mandal Gauri
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Areca nut, commonly known as supari, is widely used in India. In addition to tobacco and alcohol, it has been identified as one of the contributory factors for high rates of oral cancer in the country.

Methods

This qualitative study explored perceptions and practices around the use of areca nut by conducting in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 61 school-going adolescents in the city of Mumbai, India.

Results

Respondents used low-priced sachets of sweetened, flavored areca nut called supari. They perceived supari as harmless because it was sweet, it had a fresh after-taste as compared to bitter-tasting smokeless tobacco products. How can something sweet be harmful was a common argument offered by respondents. Respondents invariably compared and contrasted areca nut to more harmful and addictive tobacco products; perceiving supari to have milder or inconsequential health effects. Supari use was initiated with friends, a sibling, or a cousin. It was almost always used with friends. Respondents also reported difficulty in refusal to use when offered supari by friends. Parental response to finding out about the child’s supari use was often muted in comparison to extreme reactions associated with the child’s tobacco use.

Conclusions

Perceptions of low risk or relative harmlessness of the product, social influence, and the features of the product itself influence adolescents’ use of areca nut. Although more research on perceptions of risk, with larger samples, is required, these findings are useful for school-based tobacco prevention and cessation programs and health policy-makers.

Implications

The study findings have implications for prevention and cessation programs, and policymakers. School-based health education programs should allocate special sessions on areca nut use. Focused mass media communication campaigns describing its harms and association with oral cancer are required for the larger community. As was done for tobacco, Indian policymakers will have to evaluate the marketing, commerce, and distribution of areca nut and create appropriate laws. More research, with larger nationwide samples, is required to examine perceptions of areca nut.
Persistent Symptoms and Association With Inflammatory Cytokine Signatures in Recovered Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients
Authors: Ong Sean Wei Xiang , Fong Siew-Wai , Young Barnaby Edward , Chan Yi-Hao , Lee Bernett , Amrun Siti Naqiah , Chee Rhonda Sin-Ling , Yeo Nicholas Kim-Wah , Tambyah Paul , Pada Surinder , Tan Seow Yen , Ding Ying , Renia Laurent , Leo Yee-Sin , Ng Lisa F P , Lye David Chien
Published: April 2021

Background

The complications and sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and their effect on long-term health are unclear, and the trajectory of associated immune dysregulation is poorly understood.

Methods

We conducted a prospective longitudinal multicenter cohort study at 4 public hospitals in Singapore. Patients with COVID-19 were monitored for a median of 6 months after recovery from acute infection. Clinical symptoms and radiologic data were collected, along with plasma samples for quantification of immune mediators. The relationship between clinical symptoms and immune cytokine profiles was investigated.

Results

Two hundred eighty-eight participants were recruited, and follow-up data were available for 183, 175, and 120 participants at days 30, 90, and 180 postsymptom onset, respectively. Symptoms related to COVID-19 were present in 31 (16.9%), 13 (7.4%), and 14 (11.7%) at days 30, 90, and 180. In a multivariable model, age >65 years, non-Chinese ethnicity, and the severity of acute infection were associated with increased likelihood of persistent symptoms. Recovered COVID-19 patients had elevated levels of proinflammatory interleukin (IL)-17A, stem cell factor, IL-12p70, and IL-1β and pro-angiogenic macrophage inflammatory protein 1β, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor at day 180 compared with healthy controls. Higher levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and platelet-derived growth factor-BB were detected in patients with persistent symptoms, versus symptom-free patients.

Conclusions

Approximately 10% of recovered patients had persistent symptoms 6 months after initial infection. Immune cytokine signatures of the recovered patients reflected ongoing chronic inflammation and angiogenesis. Patients with COVID-19 should be monitored closely for emerging long-term health consequences.
Tonoplast-Localized OsMOT1;2 Participates in Interorgan Molybdate Distribution in Rice
Authors: Ishikawa Satoru , Hayashi Shimpei , Tanikawa Hachidai , Iino Manaka , Abe Tadashi , Kuramata Masato , Feng Zhihang , Fujiwara Toru , Kamiya Takehiro
Published: April 2021

Molybdenum (Mo) is an essential element for plant growth and is utilized by several key enzymes in biological redox processes. Rice assimilates molybdate ions via OsMOT1;1, a transporter with a high affinity for molybdate. However, other systems involved in the molecular transport of molybdate in rice remain unclear. Here, we characterized OsMOT1;2, which shares amino acid sequence similarity with AtMOT1;2 and functions in vacuolar molybdate export. We isolated a rice mutant harboring a complete deletion of OsMOT1;2. This mutant exhibited a significantly lower grain Mo concentration than the wild type (WT), but its growth was not inhibited. The Mo concentration in grains was restored by the introduction of WT OsMOT1;2. The OsMOT1;2-GFP protein was localized to the vacuolar membrane when transiently expressed in rice protoplasts. At the reproductive growth stage of the WT plant, OsMOT1;2 was highly expressed in the 2nd and lower leaf blades and nodes. The deletion of OsMOT1;2 impaired interorgan Mo allocation in aerial parts: relative to the WT, the mutant exhibited decreased Mo levels in the 1st and 2nd leaf blades and grains but increased Mo levels in the 2nd and lower leaf sheaths, nodes and internodes. When the seedlings were exposed to a solution with a high KNO3 concentration in the absence of Mo, the mutant exhibited significantly lower nitrate reductase activity in the shoots than the WT. Our results suggest that OsMOT1;2 plays an essential role in interorgan Mo distribution and molybdoenzyme activity in rice.
After-discharge in the upper airway muscle genioglossus following brief hypoxia
Authors: Avraam Joanne , Dawson Andrew , Feast Nicole , Fan Feiven Lee , Fridgant Monika D , Kay Amanda , Koay Zi Yi , Jia Pingdong , Greig Rachel , Thornton Therese , Nicholas Christian L , O’Donoghue Fergal J , Trinder John , Jordan Amy S
Published: April 2021

Study Objectives

Genioglossus (GG) after-discharge is thought to protect against pharyngeal collapse by minimizing periods of low upper airway muscle activity. How GG after-discharge occurs and which single motor units (SMUs) are responsible for the phenomenon are unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate genioglossal after-discharge.

Methods

During wakefulness, after-discharge was elicited 8–12 times in healthy individuals with brief isocapnic hypoxia (45–60 s of 10% O2 in N2) terminated by a single breath of 100% O2. GG SMUs were designated as firing solely, or at increased rate, during inspiration (Inspiratory phasic [IP] and inspiratory tonic [IT], respectively); solely, or at increased rate, during expiration (Expiratory phasic [EP] or expiratory tonic [ET], respectively) or firing constantly without respiratory modulation (Tonic). SMUs were quantified at baseline, the end of hypoxia, the hyperoxic breath, and the following eight normoxic breaths.

Results

A total of 210 SMUs were identified in 17 participants. GG muscle activity was elevated above baseline for seven breaths after hyperoxia (p < 0.001), indicating a strong after-discharge effect. After-discharge occurred due to persistent firing of IP and IT units that were recruited during hypoxia, with minimal changes in ET, EP, or Tonic SMUs. The firing frequency of units that were already active changed minimally during hypoxia or the afterdischarge period (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

That genioglossal after-discharge is almost entirely due to persistent firing of previously silent inspiratory SMUs provides insight into the mechanisms responsible for the phenomenon and supports the hypothesis that the inspiratory and expiratory/tonic motor units within the muscle have idiosyncratic functions.
Meta-analysis of age and actigraphy-assessed sleep characteristics across the lifespan
Authors: Evans Marissa A , Buysse Daniel J , Marsland Anna L , Wright Aidan G C , Foust Jill , Carroll Lucas W , Kohli Naina , Mehra Rishabh , Jasper Adam , Srinivasan Swathi , Hall Martica H
Published: April 2021

Study Objectives

Sleep quantity and continuity vary across the lifespan. Actigraphy is a reliable and widely used behavioral measure of sleep in research and personal health monitoring. This meta-analysis provides a novel examination of whether age (in years) is associated with actigraphy-assessed sleep across the lifespan.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase.com, Cochrane CENTRAL, and PsycINFO using “actigraphy” and “sleep” terms provided 7079 titles/abstracts; studies of individuals with known psychiatric or medical comorbidities were excluded. Ninety-one articles (N = 23 365) provided data for six meta-analyses examining sleep duration (k = 89), sleep efficiency (k = 58), bedtime (k = 19) and waketime (k = 9) for individuals ages 6–21, and bedtime (k = 7) and waketime (k = 7) for individuals ages 22 and older.

Results

At older ages, sleep duration was shorter (r = −0.12) and sleep efficiency was lower (r = −0.05). Older age was associated with later bedtime (r = 0.37) and wake-up time (r = 0.24) from ages 6–21, whereas older age was associated with earlier bedtime (r = −0.66) and wake-up time (r = −0.59) for ages 22 and above. The strength of these associations was modified by study continent, but not by any other moderator.

Conclusions

Age was negatively associated with actigraphy-assessed sleep duration and efficiency, but the effects were small in magnitude. On the other hand, large associations were observed between age and sleep timing, despite a smaller literature and the absence of analyzable data for ages 30–60. Changes in sleep timing, rather than changes in sleep duration or continuity, may better characterize the effects of age on human sleep.
Sensing the Sacred: Religious Experience, Somatic Inversions, and the Religious Education of Attention
Authors: Winchester Daniel , Pagis Michal
Published: April 2021

While previous work has focused largely on discourse, contemporary sociological research has started to examine how the embodied, sensory dimensions of religious practice matter in the construction of religious experience. This paper contributes to this development by drawing sociological attention to the religious cultivation of a particular class of embodied experiences: somatic inversions. Somatic inversions, as we define them, are experiences in which dimensions of human embodiment that usually remain in the tacit background of action and perception are brought to the experiential foreground. We demonstrate how these kinds of practically cultivated experiences of inversion—while not religious in any essential way—enable and encourage attributions of religious significance, making purportedly religious phenomena present to the senses and open to further engagement, exploration, and elaboration. We develop our argument through empirical material from the authors’ respective studies of Eastern Orthodox fasting and Theravada Buddhist meditation practices.
Assessing reinforcing versus aversive consequences in a real-time secondhand smoke intervention
Authors: Berardi Vincent , Bellettiere John , Nguyen Benjamin , Klepeis Neil E , Hughes Suzanne C , Adams Marc A , Hovell Melbourne
Published: April 2021

Few studies have examined the relative effectiveness of reinforcing versus aversive consequences at changing behavior in real-world environments. Real-time sensing devices makes it easier to investigate such questions, offering the potential to improve both intervention outcomes and theory. This research aims to describe the development of a real-time, operant theory-based secondhand smoke (SHS) intervention and compare the efficacy of aversive versus aversive plus reinforcement contingency systems. Indoor air particle monitors were placed in the households of 253 smokers for approximately three months. Participants were assigned to a measurement-only control group (N = 129) or one of the following groups: 1.) aversive only (AO, N = 71), with aversive audio/visual consequences triggered by the detection of elevated air particle measurements, or 2.) aversive plus reinforcement (AP, N = 53), with reinforcing consequences contingent on the absence of SHS added to the AO intervention. Residualized change ANCOVA analysis compared particle concentrations over time and across groups. Post-hoc pairwise comparisons were also performed. After controlling for Baseline, Post-Baseline daily particle counts (F = 6.42, p = 0.002), % of time >15,000 counts (F = 7.72, p < 0.001), and daily particle events (F = 4.04, p = 0.02) significantly differed by study group. Nearly all control versus AO/AP pair-wise comparisons were statistically significant. No significant differences were found for AO versus AP groups. The aversive feedback system reduced SHS, but adding reinforcing consequences did not further improve outcomes. The complexity of real-world environments requires the nuances of these two contingency systems continue to be explored, with this study demonstrating that real-time sensing technology can serve as a platform for such research.
Aristolochic acid I induces impairment in spermatogonial stem cell in rodents
Authors: Liu Yongzhen , He Xiang , Wang Yuli , Zhou Houzu , Zhang Yuan , Ma Jianyun , Wang Zhaochu , Yang Fangfang , Lu Henglei , Yang Yifu , Deng Zhongping , Qi Xinming , Gong Likun , Ren Jin
Published: April 2021

Aristolochic acid I (AAI) is a natural bioactive substance found in plants from the Aristolochiaceae family and impairs spermatogenesis. However, whether AAI-induced spermatogenesis impairment starts at the early stages of spermatogenesis has not yet been determined. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are undifferentiated spermatogonia that balance self-renewing and differentiating divisions to maintain spermatogenesis throughout adult life and are the only adult stem cells capable of passing genes onto the next generation. The objective of this study was to investigate whether AAI impairs SSCs during the early stages of spermatogenesis. After AAI treatment, we observed looser, smaller and fewer colonies, decreased cell viability, a decreased relative cell proliferation index, and increased apoptosis in SSCs in a concentration- and/or time-dependent manner. Additionally, AAI promoted apoptosis in SSCs, which was accompanied by upregulation of caspase 3, P53 and BAX expression and downregulation of Bcl-2 expression, and suppressed autophagy, which was accompanied by upregulation of P62 expression and downregulation of ATG5 and LC3B expression, in a concentration-dependent manner. Then we found that AAI impaired spermatogenesis in rats, as identified by degeneration of the seminiferous epithelium, and increased apoptosis of testicular cells. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that AAI causes damage to SSCs and implicate apoptosis and autophagy in this process. The impairment of SSCs may contribute to AAI-induced testicular impairment. Our findings provide crucial information for the human application of botanical products containing trace amounts of AAI.
Factors associated with early age at menarche among female secondary school students in Asmara: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Idris Idris M. , Wolday Samuel J. , Habteselassie Feven , Ghebremichael Luwam , Andemariam Makda , Azmera Rahwa , Ghebrewoldi Frezghi H.
Published: April 2021

Objective:

Several factors appeared to influence the onset of menarche. The current study was aimed to determine the mean age of menarche and the factors influencing its onset among female high school students in Asmara.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to February 2017 among secondary school female students of Asmara city. A 2 stage stratified sampling design was adopted to select the number of schools and students for the study. A structured and pretested questionnaire was used to collect the data through interview. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 22. Descriptive results were summarized using frequencies and percentages in tables and graphs. Moreover, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to find out the association of earlier onset of menarche and the predictor variables.

Results:

A total of 300 female students participated in the study. The mean age of the participants was 16.1 years (SD=1.3) with majority of them (57.3%) between the ages of 16 and 18 years. The mean age at menarche was 13.8 years (SD=1.2). About 39% of the participants have the onset of their menarche earlier (before 14 y). An earlier onset of menarche was observed among younger age (above 16) respondents {adjusted odds ratio [AOR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 1.8 (0.96, 4.88), P-value: 0.02}, having higher body mass index [AOR (95% CI): 3.8 (1.92, 7.85), P-value: 0.001] and from richer family. Lack of engaging in any kind of physical activity [AOR (95% CI): 2.56 (1.13, 5.27), P-value: 0.012] and more sleeping hours [AOR (95% CI): 2.2 (0.36, 4.18), P-value: 0.04] were also factors influencing earlier onset of menarche.

Conclusion:

The mean age at menarche was relatively low. Factors related to higher body mass index, physical inactivity, more sleeping hours, good socioeconomic status, and younger age were associated with earlier onset of menarche. Initiatives on awareness creation are required to increase lifestyle modifications at individual level.
The Effect of Telehealth Services on Provider Productivity
Authors: Stefos Theodore , Carey Kathleen , Shen Mei-Ling , Poe Stacy , Oh Dennis H. , Moran Eileen
Published: April 2021

Background:

Telehealth services historically have played a small role in the provision of health care in the United States. However during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, public and private insurers rapidly expanded access to telehealth in order to reduce exposure and avoid transmission. It is unknown whether telehealth will become a more regular substitute for in-person care beyond the pandemic.

Objective:

Our objective was to provide evidence on the value of telehealth by comparing the productivity of physicians and other specialized clinicians who provide telehealth with the productivity of those who do not.

Research Design:

We conducted a retrospective data analysis of 17,705 unique providers in the areas of internal medicine, cardiology, dermatology, psychiatry, psychology, and optometry practicing in the US veterans affairs health care system during the period 2015 to 2018. For each year, we measured individual providers productivity by the total number of relative value units (RVUs) per full-time equivalent (FTE). We estimated the impact of providing telehealth on RVUs/FTE using fixed effects regression models estimated on a panel dataset of 58,873 provider-year observations and controlling for provider and patient characteristics.

Results:

Overall provider productivity increased in veterans affairs over the period, particularly in cardiology and dermatology. Providers of telehealth had above average productivity by 124 RVUs/FTE, or ∼4% of average total provider productivity. For the highest quartile of telehealth providers, average productivity was 188 RVUs/FTE higher than productivity of other providers.

Conclusion:

Strategies that encourage long-term integration of telehealth into provider practices may contribute to overall health care value.
Timing is everything: the relationship between COVID outcomes and the date at which mask mandates are relaxed
Authors: Shoukat Affan , Galvani Alison P. , Fitzpatrick Meagan C.
Published: April 2021

Importance

Several states including Texas and Mississippi have lifted their mask mandates, sparking concerns that this policy change could lead to a surge in cases and hospitalizations.

Objective

To estimate the increase in incidence, hospitalizations, and deaths in Texas and Mississippi following the removal of mask mandates, and to evaluate the relative reduction of these outcomes if policy change is delayed by 90 days.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This study uses an age-stratified compartmental model parameterized to incidence data in Texas and Mississippi to simulate increased transmission following policy change in March or June 2021, and to estimate the resulting number of incidence, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The increase in incidence, hospitalizations, and deaths if mask mandates are lifted on March 14 compared to lifting on June 12.

Results

If transmission is increased by 67% when mask mandates are lifted, we projected 11.39 (CrI: 11.22 - 11.55) million infections, 170,909 (CrI: 167,454 - 174,379) hospitalizations, and 5647 (5511 - 5804) deaths (Figure 1) in Texas from March 14 through the end of 2021. Delaying NPI lift until June reduces the average number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths by 36%, 65%, and 62%, respectively. Proportionate differences were similar for the state of Mississippi. Peak hospitalization rates would be reduced by 79% and 63% in Texas and Mississippi, respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

Removal of mask mandates in March 2021 is premature. Delaying this policy change until June 2021, when a larger fraction of the population has been vaccinated, will avert more than half of the expected COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths, and avoid an otherwise likely strain on healthcare capacity.
South to North Migration Patterns of Tuberculosis Patients Diagnosed in the Mexican Border with Texas
Authors: Curry Jennifer S. , Abdelbary Bassent , García-Viveros Moncerrato , Ignacio Garcia Juan , Yotebieng Marcel , Rendon Adrian , Torrelles Jordi B. , Restrepo Blanca I.
Published: April 2021

Background

Immigration is a determinant of tuberculosis (TB) epidemiology. The US-Mexican border state of Tamaulipas serves as a migration waypoint for further immigration to the US, and has the second highest incidence of TB in Mexico. Here, we determined the contribution and characteristics of immigrants to the TB burden in Tamaulipas.

Methods

TB surveillance data from Tamaulipas (2006-2013) was used to conduct a cross-sectional characterization of TB immigrants (born outside Tamaulipas) and identify their association with TB treatment outcomes.

Results

Immigrants comprised 30.8% of the TB patients, with >99% originating from internal Mexican migration. Most migration was from South to North, with cities adjacent to the US border as destinations. Immigrants had higher odds of risk factors for TB [older age (≥ 65 yr old, OR 2.4, 95% CI 2.1, 2.8), low education (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.2, 1.4), diabetes (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1, 1.4)], or abandoning TB treatment (adjusted OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0, 1.5).

Conclusions

The US port of entry of Tamaulipas has a predominant south to north migration, positively impacting TB prevalence in this region. There is a need to identify strategies to prevent and manage TB more effectively in this Mexican migration waypoint.
Targeting properdin - Structure and function of a novel family of tick-derived complement inhibitors
Authors: Braunger Katharina , Ahn Jiyoon , Jore Matthijs M. , Johnson Steven , Tang Terence , Pedersen Dennis V. , Andersen Gregers R. , Lea Susan M.
Published: April 2021

Activation of the serum-resident complement system begins a cascade that leads to activation of membrane-resident complement receptors on immune cells, thus coordinating serum and cellular immune responses. Whilst many molecules act to control inappropriate activation, Properdin is the only known positive regulator of the human complement system. By stabilising the alternative pathway C3 convertase it promotes complement self-amplification and persistent activation boosting the magnitude of the serum complement response by all triggers.

We have identified a novel family of alternative pathway complement inhibitors, hereafter termed CirpA. Functional and structural characterisation reveals that CirpA family directly bind to properdin, inhibiting its ability to promote complement activation, and leading to potent inhibition of the complement response in a species specific manner.

For the first time this study provides a full functional and structural characterization of a properdin inhibitor, opening avenues for future therapeutic approaches.
Characterization of heart rate changes associated with autonomic dysreflexia during penile vibrostimulation and urodynamics
Authors: Rietchel Lauren , Ramirez Andrea L. , Hocaloski Shea , Elliott Stacy , Walter Matthias , Krassioukov Andrei V.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Autonomic dysreflexia, often accompanied by heart rate changes, increases the risk of cardio-cerebrovascular complications in individuals with spinal cord injury. Thus, our aim was to characterize these changes during penile vibrostimulation and urodynamics.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed the cardiovascular (i.e. blood pressure and heart rate) data from two prospective studies, i.e. 21 individuals with chronic spinal cord injuries and history of autonomic dysreflexia, who underwent penile vibrostimulation (n=11, study 1) or urodynamics (n=10, study 2).

Results

The cohort’s median age was 41 years (range 22 −53). Overall 47 episodes of autonomic dysreflexia were recorded (i.e. penile vibrostimulation n=37, urodynamics n=10), while at least one episode was recorded in each participant. At the threshold of autonomic dysreflexia, bradycardia was observed during penile vibrostimulation and urodynamics in 43% and 30% of all episodes, respectively. At the peak of autonomic dysreflexia during penile vibrostimulation and urodynamics, bradycardia was observed in 65% and 50%, respectively. In contrast, tachycardia was detected only once during urodynamics.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal that heart rate changes associated with autonomic dysreflexia during penile vibrostimulation and urodynamics appear to be related to the magnitude of systolic blood pressure increases. Thus, highly elevated systolic blood pressure associated with bradycardia suggest the presence of severe autonomic dysreflexia, which can lead to devastating cerebro-cardiovascular consequences. Therefore, we recommend cardiovascular monitoring during penile vibrostimulation and urodynamics to detect autonomic dysreflexia and stop assessments before systolic blood pressure is dangerously increasing, thereby reducing the risk of potentially life-threatening complications in this cohort.
The ventral striatum harbours patient specific intracranial neural signatures of obsessions and compulsions
Authors: Fridgeirsson Egill A , Bais MN , Eijsker N , Thomas RM , Smit DJA , Bergfeld IO , Schuurman PR , van den Munckhof P , de Koning P , Vulink N , Figee M , Mazaheri A , van Wingen GA , Denys D
Published: April 2021

Deep brain stimulation is a treatment option for patients with refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder. A new generation of stimulators hold promise for closed loop stimulation, with adaptive stimulation in response to biological signals Here we aimed to discover a suitable biomarker in the ventral striatum in patients with obsessive compulsive disorder using local field potentials. We induced obsessions and compulsions and trained a deep learning model on the recorded time series. Average classification sensitivities were 47% for obsessions and 66% for compulsions for patient specific models at 25% chance level. Sensitivity for obsessions reached over 90% in one patient, whereas performance was near chance level when the model was trained across patients. Optimal sensitivity for obsessions and compulsions was obtained at different recording sites. This study shows that closed loop stimulation is a viable option for OCD, but that intracranial biomarkers for obsessive-compulsive disorder are patient and not disorder specific.
Multi-omics approach identifies germline regulatory variants associated with hematopoietic malignancies in retriever dog breeds
Authors: Evans Jacquelyn M. , Parker Heidi G. , Rutteman Gerard R. , Plassais Jocelyn , Grinwis Guy CM , Harris Alexander C. , Lana Susan E. , Ostrander Elaine A.
Published: April 2021

Histiocytic sarcoma is an aggressive hematopoietic malignancy of mature tissue histiocytes with a poorly understood etiology in humans. A histologically and clinically similar counterpart affects flat-coated retrievers (FCRs) at unusually high frequency, with 20% developing the lethal disease. The similar clinical presentation combined with the closed population structure of dogs, leading to high genetic homogeneity, makes dogs an excellent model for genetic studies of cancer susceptibility. To determine the genetic risk factors underlying histiocytic sarcoma in FCRs, we conducted multiple genome-wide association studies (GWASs), identifying two loci that confer significant risk on canine chromosomes (CFA) 5 (Pwald=4.83×10−9) and 19 (Pwald=2.25×10−7). We subsequently undertook a multi-omics approach that has been largely unexplored in the canine model to interrogate these regions, generating whole genome, transcriptome, and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing. These data highlight the PI3K pathway genePIK3R6on CFA5, and proximal candidate regulatory variants that are strongly associated with histiocytic sarcoma and predicted to impact transcription factor binding. The CFA5 association colocalizes with susceptibility loci for two hematopoietic malignancies, hemangiosarcoma and B-cell lymphoma, in the closely related golden retriever breed, revealing the risk contribution this single locus makes to multiple hematological cancers. By comparison, the CFA19 locus is unique to the FCR and harbors risk alleles associated with upregulation ofTNFAIP6, which itself affects cell migration and metastasis. Together, these loci explain ~35% of disease risk, an exceptionally high value that demonstrates the advantages of domestic dogs for complex trait mapping and genetic studies of cancer susceptibility.
Unique protein features of SARS-CoV-2 relative to otherSarbecoviruses
Authors: Cotten Matthew , Robertson David L. , Phan My V.T.
Published: April 2021

Defining the unique properties of SARS-CoV-2 protein sequences, has potential to explain the range of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity. To achieve this we compared proteins encoded by allSarbecovirusesusing profile Hidden Markov Model similarities to identify protein features unique to SARS-CoV-2. Consistent with previous reports, a small set of bat and pangolin-derivedSarbecovirusesshow the greatest similarity to SARS-CoV-2 but unlikely to be the direct source of SARS-CoV-2. Three proteins (nsp3, spike and orf9) showed differing regions between the batSarbecovirusesand SARS-CoV-2 and indicate virus protein features that might have evolved to support human infection and/or transmission. Spike analysis identified all regions of the protein that have tolerated change and revealed that the current SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) have sampled only a fraction (~31%) of the possible spike domain changes which have occurred historically inSarbecovirusevolution. This result emphasises the evolvability of these coronaviruses and potential for further change in virus replication and transmission properties over the coming years.
Sensitivity factors of aircraft mass for the conceptual design
Authors: Kretov Anatolii
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to further develop the methodology for calculating the aircraft take-off mass and its main functional components for the conceptual analysis and synthesis of new projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The method is based on the assessment of changes in the take-off gross mass (TOGM) of the already developed project or already existing a basic version of the aircraft when making local mass changes for its modification or for the numerical researches to create a more advanced project. The method is based on the “sensitivity factors of mass” (SFM) of aircraft, which represents the ratio of TOGM to initial (local) mass changes of its main functional components. The method of analytical refined calculation of SFM for the initial mass change and the main aerodynamic characteristics is given.

Findings

In comparison with the long-known method based on weight (mass) growth factors, which were considered constant, this method takes into account the dependence from the value of the initial local mass change and its functional purpose.

Practical implications

This method allows the designer to calculate more strictly the final changes in the TOGM on the initial stages of conceptual design when finding new project solutions. Numerical calculations are given on the example of passenger aircraft. The dependence of SFM and TOGM and its functional masses on the value of the initial change of the structure mass are shown. This method is used in the educational process at the college of Aerospace Engineering in the Aircraft Design department.

Originality/value

The considered method based on SFM is simple and convenient and more accurate for conducting project research on many project parameters when analyzing and synthesizing a new project.
Exploring the meaning of usable security – a literature review
Authors: Lennartsson Markus , Kävrestad Joakim , Nohlberg Marcus
Published: April 2021

Purpose

For decades, literature has reported on the perceived conflict between usability and security. This mutual trade-off needs to be considered and addressed whenever security products are developed. Achieving well-balanced levels of both is a precondition for sufficient security as users tend to reject unusable solutions. To assess it correctly, usability should be evaluated in the context of security. This paper aims to identify and describe universally applicable and solution-independent factors that affect the perceived usability of security mechanisms.

Design/methodology/approach

The selected methodology was a systematic literature review during which multiple database resources were queried. Application of predefined selection criteria led to the creation of a bibliography before backward snowballing was applied to minimize the risk of missing material of importance. All 70 included publications were then analyzed through thematic analysis.

Findings

The study resulted in the identification of 14 themes and 30 associated subthemes representing aspects with reported influence on perceived usability in the context of security. While some of them were only mentioned sparsely, the most prominent and thus presumably most significant ones were: simplicity, information and support, task completion time, error rates and error management.

Originality/value

The identified novel themes can increase knowledge about factors that influence usability. This can be useful for different groups: end users may be empowered to choose appropriate solutions more consciously, developers may be able to avoid common usability pitfalls when designing new products and system administrators may benefit from a better understanding of how to configure solutions and how to educate users efficiently.
Operation policy of multi-capacity logistic robots in hotel industry
Authors: Lee Woojin , Ko Young Dae
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose an operation policy of multi-capacity room service robots traveling within a hotel. As multi-capacity robots can serve many requests in a single trip, improved operation policy can reduce the investment cost of robots.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a mathematical model-based optimization technique, an optimal set of robots with minimum installation cost is derived while serving the entire room service demands. Through testing a variety of scenarios by changing the price and function of robots to be installed, insights that consider the various situations are offered.

Findings

Though the increase in capacity saves much time for room service at a lower capacity level, the amount of time saved gradually decreases as the capacity increases. Besides, the installation strategy is divided into two cases depending on the purchase cost of robots.

Research limitations/implications

Currently, the studies focusing on the adoption of service robots from an operations view are rarely be found. To reduce the burden of investment cost, this study takes the unique approach to improve the operation policy of service robots by using the multi-capacity robots.

Practical implications

This study guides the hotel to install an adequate set of robots. The result confirms that the optimal installation set of robots is affected by various factors, such as the room service information, the hotel structure and the unit execution cycle.

Originality/value

After the outbreak of COVID-19, people avoid face-to-face contact and interest in non-contact service is growing. This paper deals with the efficient way to implement non-contact delivery through logistic robots, a timely and important topic.
Stand by me: analyzing the tourist–intelligent voice assistant relationship quality
Authors: Loureiro Sandra Maria Correia , Japutra Arnold , Molinillo Sebastian , Bilro Ricardo Godinho
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore tourist perceived value and attachment to intelligent voice assistants (IVAs) as antecedents of the quality of the human–IVA relationship in the hospitality domain. This research also examines the moderating role of psychological factors (self-esteem) and knowledge factors (past experience and technology expertise) in the relationships between antecedents and relationship quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers conducted two quantitative studies, collecting data via online surveys in Mechanical Turk (n1 = 124 and n2 = 281). The proposed model was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The first study uncovers that tourist perceived value is the main influence on the quality of the relationship between tourists and IVAs. The second study confirms the direct relationships of the first and shows that self-esteem and technology expertise act as moderators.

Practical implications

This study advances the understanding of the tourism and hospitality stakeholders in using modern technologies (e.g. IVAs). Through comprehending the relationship building between individuals and IVAs, the stakeholders will be able to craft better strategies.

Originality/value

The study extends the attachment and social exchange theories to the tourist–IVA relationship context. Specifically, this research demonstrates the impact of tourist perceived value on the quality of the relationship with the IVA. It also points out that tourists’ self-esteem and technology expertise can weaken the tourist–IVA relationship.
Add fuel to the fire: investigating the relationship between leader group prototypicality and intergroup conflict
Authors: Liang Yongyi , Wang Haibo , Yan Ming , Xie Jun
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between leader group prototypicality and intergroup conflict, as well as its mechanisms and contextual factors using the social identity theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The research model was empirically tested using multi-phase, multi-source and multilevel survey data in China. The final sample consisted of 75 group leaders and 231 group members. Multilevel structural equation modelling and a Monte Carlo simulation were used for hypothesis testing.

Findings

The results showed that leader group prototypicality would engender intergroup conflict via intergroup distinctiveness. Further, leaders’ benchmarking behaviour moderated this indirect effect. In particular, leader group prototypicality resulted in higher intergroup distinctiveness and intergroup conflict, only when the leaders’ benchmarking behaviour was higher rather than lower.

Originality/value

First, this study addresses the question of whether leader group prototypicality would lead to intergroup conflict to provide theoretical and empirical insights to supplement extant literature. Second, the study advances the understanding of mechanisms (intergroup distinctiveness) and the consequences (intergroup conflict) of leader group prototypicality in an intergroup context. Third, the study shows that leaders’ benchmarking behaviour moderates the effect of leader group prototypicality on intergroup conflict through intergroup distinctiveness. As such, the findings are of value to future management practice by offering precise, practical interventions to manage the intergroup conflict caused by leader group prototypicality.