bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maximizing disability diversity, language diversity, and productivity: A study in apparel manufacturing
Authors: Zhang Ying , Narayanan Sriram , Soun Tharo , Deb Kalyanmoy , Cole Dustin
Published: September 2023

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals have recently emphasized the importance of diversity inclusion. Motivated by this goal, we examine the impact of employing individuals with disabilities in apparel manufacturing cells on overall team productivity (PD). We formulate a series of deterministic and stochastic PD maximization assignment problems to study the impact of disability inclusion on a production line. We extend the baseline PD maximization formulation to study a multi‐objective problem that simultaneously maximizes PD, disability diversity (DD), and language diversity (LD). Each analysis is performed across two different garments drawn from a real‐world setting. The models are tested using archival time study data collected in partnership with an apparel manufacturing firm where more than 75% of the billed work hours are from individuals with significant disabilities. The following insights emerge from the analyses. First, the PD of teams that have individuals across multiple, different types of disabilities is higher than the PD of teams with employees who share a single, specific type of disability. Second, teams that employ both individuals with and without disabilities perform slightly better than teams that consist of only individuals with disabilities. In some instances, contrary to intuition, teams of only individuals with disabilities even have higher PD than teams of only individuals with no disabilities. Finally, our results from the multi‐objective problem that simultaneously maximizes PD, DD, and LD suggest that PD is not generally sensitive to increases in DD. However, PD is sensitive at extreme levels of DD and LD. Limitations and possible future extensions of the study are discussed.
Emotional arousal pattern (EMAP): A new database for modeling momentary subjective and psychophysiological responding to affective stimuli
Authors: Eisenbarth Hedwig , Oxner Matt , Shehu Harisu Abdullahi , Gastrell Tim , Walsh Amy , Browne Will N. , Xue Bing
Published: September 2023

This article describes a new database (named “EMAP”) of 145 individuals' reactions to emotion‐provoking film clips. It includes electroencephalographic and peripheral physiological data as well as moment‐by‐moment ratings for emotional arousal in addition to overall and categorical ratings. The resulting variation in continuous ratings reflects inter‐individual variability in emotional responding. To make use of the moment‐by‐moment data for ratings as well as neurophysiological activity, we used a machine learning approach. The results show that algorithms that are based on temporal information improve predictions compared to algorithms without a temporal component, both within and across participant modeling. Although predicting moment‐by‐moment changes in emotional experiences by analyzing neurophysiological activity was more difficult than using aggregated experience ratings, selecting a subset of predictors improved the prediction. This also showed that not only single features, for example, skin conductance, but a range of neurophysiological parameters explain variation in subjective fluctuations of subjective experience.
Abortion and fetal death in sows
Authors: Maes Dominiek , Peltoniemi Olli , Malik Mateusz
Published: September 2023

Abortion in sows or the expulsion of foetuses between days 35 and 109 of gestation results in major financial losses. Abortion is the result of maternal failure due to factors interfering with either the endocrine control of pregnancy or causing endometrial damage. In addition, causes of fetal origin, due to infections with a special affinity for the fetus, can also lead to abortion. Many different non‐infectious and infectious factors may be involved. Non‐infectious risk factors include inappropriate ambient temperature, seasonal effects, different stress factors, and toxic substances. Microorganisms that may cause abortion can be classified as facultative pathogenic and specific pathogenic microorganisms. The first category includes mostly bacteria that are endemic in many pig farms and that are normally harmless commensals. They can cause abortion only in case of decreased immunity or other predisposing factors. Different specific pathogenic microorganisms, especially viruses and bacteria, can cause fetal death and abortion. Some may have a special affinity for the reproductive tract and the foetuses (e.g. Aujeszky's disease virus, parvovirus, Leptospira sp.), while others may cause clinical disease or fever in sows (e.g. swine influenza viruses, Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae), subsequently leading to abortion. Diagnosis of fetal death and abortion is challenging due to the broad array of processes that may be involved, and the fact that the inciting cause may happen well in advance of the abortion. The diagnostic process should start with a thorough evaluation of the clinical problem and the farm. In case an infectious cause is suspected, proper samples should be collected, preferably from different sows and foetuses, for the detection of specific pathogens. Prevention of abortion mainly relies on the implementation of good management practices, hygiene and biosecurity measures, and for some pathogens also on vaccination.
Pathogenesis of the crosstalk between reproductive function and stress in animals – part 2: Prolactin, thyroid, inflammation and oxidative stress
Authors: Jaillardon Laetitia , Kaiser Marianne
Published: September 2023

Stress has a significant impact on reproductive health and fertility in both humans as well as various animal species. In particular, chronic stress can disrupt the delicate balance of the hormonal system that regulates reproductive function, leading to a variety of reproductive disorders and fertility issues. Beside the action of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) system and the sympatho‐adrenomedullary system (SAM), other subsequent mechanisms have been incriminated. Thus, stress has also been associated with increased prolactin level, resulting in an inhibition of the hypothalamo‐pituitary‐gonadal (HPG) system leading to several reproductive disorders. Thyroid function is inhibited during chronic stress, and therefore considered an important regulator of reproductive function. Thus, and in particular by interfering with the HPA system, stress‐induced immune dysregulation can have adverse effects on reproduction. In addition, oxidative stress and inflammation have been proposed as potential mechanisms by which chronic stress affects reproductive function. This is caused by an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production that has a harmful effect on cells. Furthermore, inflammation can lead to tissue damage and scarring, which can affect fertility. The present review completes the complex mechanism linking stress and reproduction through the current knowledge in various animal species in a comparative point of view.
Ultrasonography for the evaluation of pregnancy in the female canine
Authors: Lopate Cheryl
Published: September 2023

Ultrasonography can be used for canine pregnancy diagnosis, determination of gestational age, assessing foetal maturation and readiness for birth, monitoring high‐risk pregnancies, assessing foetal distress, evaluating bitches in dystocia and foetal gender determination. As the quality and resolution of ultrasound machines have improved, the clinician's abilities to utilize ultrasound as an integral part of reproductive evaluation of all aspects of pregnancy have exponentially increased. This paper reviews the use of ultrasonography throughout pregnancy and the advances made in the interpretation of captured images.
Comparison of ET‐1 and eNOS expressions in yak testes at different developmental stages
Authors: Song Juanjuan , Yuan Ligang , Hua Wang , Guojuan Chen , Shaoyu Chen
Published: September 2023

Yak has strong adaptability to plateau hypoxia environment. However, the endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) are important regulators in blood oxygen transportation. Yak testes: newborn (3 days), young (1 years), adult (4 years) and old (9 years) were collected for microscopic analyses using haematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E), immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, as well as Western blot to compare the expression of ET‐1 and eNOS. Furthermore, the levels of ET‐1 mRNA and eNOS mRNA was detected by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). The results showed that ET‐1 mRNA and eNOS mRNA in old yaks were higher than other developmental stages (p < .01). And the levels of ET‐1 and eNOS protein increased with age. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence showed that ET‐1 and eNOS were mainly localized in gonocytes and spermatogenic membrane of newborn yaks. These two factors were expressed in both Leydig cells of young yaks and endothelial cells of adult yaks. In old yaks, ET‐1 was mainly expressed in Sertoli cells, while eNOS was obviously positive in capillaries and Leydig cells. Therefore, the positive results of ET‐1 and eNOS in gonocyte and spermatogenic basement were closely related to the development of testes. The expression of Leydig and Sertoli cells indicated that they played an important role in testes function. The expression in endothelial cells or interstitial capillaries, suggesting that they are involved in the regulation of microcirculation in yak testes. This study could provide clues for further revealing the regulation of yak testicular blood vessels in alpine cold and hypoxic environments.
Applying community assembly theory to restoration: overcoming dispersal and abiotic filters is key to diversifying California grassland
Authors: Nguyen Monica A. , Kimball Sarah , Burger Jutta C. , Freese Robert , Lulow Megan , Schmidt Katharina T. , Ta Priscilla , Funk Jennifer L.
Published: September 2023

Ecologists have explored community assembly through the framework of ecological filters, which predicts that species must overcome a series of challenges (i.e. pass through “filters”) to successfully establish in a given community. In the context of restoration, these filters (dispersal, abiotic, and biotic) can be manipulated to alter the resulting plant community by favoring native species or disadvantaging non‐native invasive species. We conducted two studies manipulating assembly filters at two California grassland sites previously dominated by non‐native species. At Site 1, we explored how variations in sequential seeding of native grasses and forbs (to overcome dispersal and biotic filters caused by priority effects) influenced the resulting community. At Site 2, we explored how thatch removal (to overcome the abiotic filter of light limitation) and herbicide‐based weed control (to overcome the biotic filter of competition from non‐native species) influenced the addition of native forbs into a partially restored grassland. Native forbs at Site 1 did not suffer from arriving after grasses, but native grasses benefited when given 1 year priority over forbs. At Site 2, dethatching increased native forb cover in a high rainfall year. Herbicide application reduced non‐native grass cover in dethatched plots without negatively affecting native cover. Native forb and grass cover were significant predictors of non‐native grass cover. However, they accounted for only 29% of the variation observed, suggesting there are other influential factors not considered in this study. Our results suggest that forbs can be incorporated into established native grasslands more successfully after dethatching.
Proposal of a hybrid workflow to create a device treating the nutritional disability of an infant with cleft lip and palate: Case report
Authors: Nucera Riccardo , Ciraolo Ludovica , Maio Alessandra , Giuffrida Mirco , Portelli Marco , Militi Angela , Bellocchio Angela Mirea
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Cleft lip‐palate is the most common craniofacial congenital anomaly. Patients with Cleft lip palate require treatment with a multidisciplinary approach from birth to enable independent feeding and physiological growth. In the past, the fabrication of therapeutic devices for a child with a cleft lip palate was executed through conventional dental impression materials , with the risk of suffocation. The use of a digital workflow minimizes impression‐related risks and streamlines procedures.

Methods

This study aims to propose a hybrid workflow that can combine the advantages of digital workflow with the advantages of analog workflow that can be applied daily by clinicians treating cleft lip‐palate‐affected patients.

Results

The device created was immediately accepted by the patient allowing autonomous nutrition. Evaluation of the effectiveness of the device was done by body weight assessment every 15 days.

Conclusion

The patient had growth comparable to that of a child born healthy.
Changes in nerve growth factor in vastus lateralis muscle after the first versus second bout of one‐leg eccentric cycling
Authors: Koeda Tomoko , Mavropalias Georgios , Mizumura Kazue , Katanosaka Kimiaki , Nosaka Kazunori
Published: September 2023

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) develops after performing unaccustomed eccentric exercises. Animal studies have shown that DOMS is mechanical hyperalgesia through nociceptor sensitization induced by nerve growth factor (NGF) and glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) upregulated by cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2). However, no previous study has investigated these in relation to DOMS in humans. This study compared the first and second bouts of one‐leg eccentric cycling (ECC) for changes in NGF, GDNF, and COX‐2 mRNA in the vastus lateralis (VL). Seven healthy adults (18–40 years) performed two bouts of ECC (10 sets of 50 contractions) with 80% maximal voluntary concentric peak torque separated by 2 weeks (ECC1, ECC2). Muscle soreness that was assessed by a visual analog scale and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) torque of the knee extensors were measured before, immediately after (MVC only), 24 and 48 h post‐exercise. Muscle biopsy was taken from the VL before the first bout from nonexercised leg (control) and 24 h after each bout from the exercised leg, and analyzed for NGF, GDNF, and COX‐2 mRNA. Peak DOMS was more than two times greater and MVC torque at 48 h post‐exercise was approximately 20% smaller after ECC1 than ECC2 (p < 0.05), suggesting the repeated bout effect. NGF mRNA level was higher (p < 0.05) post‐ECC1 (0.79 ± 0.68 arbitrary unit) than control (0.06 ± 0.07) and post‐ECC2 (0.08 ± 0.10). GDNF and COX‐2 mRNA did not show significant differences between control, post‐ECC1, and post‐ECC2. These results suggest that an increase in NGF is associated with the development of DOMS in humans.
Gut microbiota and acne: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cao Qiurui , Guo Jinyan , Chang Shuangqing , Huang Zhifang , Luo Qinghua
Published: September 2023

Background

Prior observational studies have identified a relationship between the composition of gut microbiota and the onset of acne. To ascertain the causal relationship underlying this association, we adopted the Mendelian randomization (MR) method, which offers a powerful approach to causal inference.

Methods

Summary statistics on gut microbiota and acne were obtained from the MiBioGen and FinnGen consortium, respectively. The causal relationship was assessed using multiple methods in a two‐sample framework, including MR Egger, weighted median, inverse variance weighted (IVW), and weighted mode. Furthermore, the heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy analyses were conducted, along with the leave‐one‐out method.

Results

The IVW estimation indicated that Allisonella (odds ratio [OR] = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.18–1.70, p = 0.0002) and Bacteroides (OR = 2.25, 95% CI = 1.48–3.42, p = 0.0001) have adverse effects on acne. By contrast, Ruminococcus torques group (OR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.25–0.65, p = 0.0002) showed a beneficial effect on acne. In addition, Candidatus soleaferrea (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.60–0.95, p = 0.0149), Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group (OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.47–0.95, p = 0.0230), Fusicatenibacter (OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.52–0.97, p = 0.02897), and Lactobacillus (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.58–0.90, p = 0.0046) showed suggestive associations with acne.

Conclusion

The present investigation suggests a causal effect of gut microbiota on acne.
An analysis of quality of life and functional outcomes as reported in randomized trials for red cell transfusions
Authors: Pagano Monica B. , Dennis Jane A. , Idemudia Osaumwense M. , Stanworth Simon J. , Carson Jeffrey L.
Published: September 2023

Background

Meta‐analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating thresholds for red blood cell (RBC) transfusion typically focus on mortality; however, other outcomes are highly relevant. The aim of this study is to summarize the effects of different transfusion thresholds on the outcomes of quality of life (QoL) and function.

Study Design

We extracted data from RCTs identified in a recently published Cochrane systematic review. Primary analysis was descriptive.

Results

A total of 23 RCTs with 13,743 adult participants were included. Fifteen RCTs included patients in the postoperative period, of which 9 RCTs were conducted in hip (n = 3024) and 6 (n = 8672) in cardiac surgeries; 5 RCTs (n = 489) were in patients with hematological malignancies; 2 in the setting of bleeding (gastrointestinal bleed [n = 936] and postpartum [n = 521]); and one RCT (n = 936) included critically ill patients. QoL and function were reported using a variety of questionnaires and tools. The timing of assessments varied between trials. No clear clinical differences in QoL outcomes were identified in comparisons between restrictive and liberal transfusion thresholds.

Discussion

There is no evidence that a liberal transfusion strategy improves QoL and functional outcomes. However, the substantial limitations of many included studies indicate the need for further well‐designed and adequately powered trials.
Sensitivity of osteosarcoma cell lines to autophagy inhibition as determined by pharmacologic and genetic manipulation
Authors: Gustafson Daniel L. , Viola Lindsey O. , Towers Christina G. , Das Sunetra , Duval Dawn L. , Van Eaton Kristen M.
Published: September 2023

Pharmacologic inhibition of autophagy can be achieved using lysosomotropic agents such as hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) that interfere with fusion of the autophagosome to the lysosome thus preventing completion of the recycling process. The goal of the present study is to determine the sensitivity of eight canine (cOSA) and four human (hOSA) osteosarcoma tumour cell lines to antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects of lysosomal autophagy inhibitors, and to compare these results to the autophagy‐dependence measured using a CRISPR/Cas9 live‐cell imaging assay in OSA and other tumour cell lines. Antiproliferative and cytotoxic response to HCQ and Lys05 was determined using live cell imaging and YOYO‐1 staining. CRISPR/Cas9 live cell imaging screen was done using species specific guide RNA's and transfection of reagents into cells. Response to autophagy core genes was compared to response to an essential (PCNA) and non‐essential (FOXO3A) gene. cOSA and hOSA cell lines showed similar antiproliferative and cytotoxic responses to HCQ and Lys05 with median lethal dose (Dm) values ranging from 4.6–15.8 μM and 2.1–5.1 μM for measures of anti‐proliferative response, respectively. A relationship was observed between antiproliferative responses to HCQ and Lys05 and VPS34 CRISPR score with Dm values correlating with VPS34 response (r = 0.968 and 0.887) in a species independent manner. The results show that a subset of cOSA and hOSA cell lines are autophagy‐dependent and sensitive to HCQ at pharmacologically‐relevant exposures.
Mechanical microscopy of cancer cells: TGF-β induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition corresponds to low intracellular viscosity in cancer cells
Authors: Gautam Diplesh , Srivastava Abhilasha , Chowdhury Rajdeep , Laskar Inamur R. , Rao Venkatesh K. P. , Mukherjee Sudeshna
Published: September 2023

Viscosity is an essential parameter that regulates bio-molecular reaction rates of diffusion-driven cellular processes. Hence, abnormal viscosity levels are often associated with various diseases and malfunctions like cancer. For this reason, monitoring intracellular viscosity becomes vital. While several approaches have been developed for in vitro and in vivo measurement of viscosity, analysis of intracellular viscosity in live cells has not yet been well realized. Our research introduces a novel, natural frequency-based, non-invasive method to determine the intracellular viscosity in cells. This method can not only efficiently analyze the differences in intracellular viscosity post modulation with molecules like PEG or glucose but is sensitive enough to distinguish the difference in intra-cellular viscosity among various cancer cell lines such as Huh-7, MCF-7, and MDAMB-231. Interestingly, TGF-β a cytokine reported to induce epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), a feature associated with cancer invasiveness resulted in reduced viscosity of cancer cells, as captured through our method. To corroborate our findings with existing methods of analysis, we analyzed intra-cellular viscosity with a previously described viscosity-sensitive molecular rotor-based fluorophore-TPSII. In parity with our position sensing device (PSD)-based approach, an increase in fluorescence intensity was observed with viscosity enhancers, while, TGF-β exposure resulted in its reduction in the cells studied. This is the first study of its kind that attempts to characterize differences in intracellular viscosity using a novel, non-invasive PSD-based method.
Narcissism, Big Five Personality Traits, and Performance in Temporary Teams: An Investigation of League of Legends
Authors: Horne George , Furnham Adrian , Grover Simmy
Published: September 2023

Esports are competitive video games that are typically played online. League of Legends (LoL) is an esport with a ranking system that measures player performance in temporary teams. Qualitative studies have suggested there are behavioral differences between ranks, with lower ranking players being more entitled and communicating antisocially. This study attempts to quantify this relationship of behavior and ranking, using trait Narcissism and five-factor model personality traits to measure these tendencies in behavior. Four hundred and forty-four players were recruited across paid and unpaid sampling. Narcissism was the only trait to be significantly associated with LoL ranking. This result may suggest Narcissism is slightly beneficial to success in LoL’s temporary teams, potentially through better emotional regulation while playing. However, as personality traits only predicted 2.8% of variance in LoL ranking, it is likely that player skill and other contextual factors have a larger influence on performance.
Accurate proteome-wide missense variant effect prediction with AlphaMissense
Authors: Cheng Jun , Novati Guido , Pan Joshua , Bycroft Clare , Žemgulytė Akvilė , Applebaum Taylor , Pritzel Alexander , Wong Lai Hong , Zielinski Michal , Sargeant Tobias , Schneider Rosalia G. , Senior Andrew W. , Jumper John , Hassabis Demis , Kohli Pushmeet , Avsec Žiga
Published: September 2023

The vast majority of missense variants observed in the human genome are of unknown clinical significance. We present AlphaMissense, an adaptation of AlphaFold fine-tuned on human and primate variant population frequency databases to predict missense variant pathogenicity. By combining structural context and evolutionary conservation, our model achieves state-of-the-art results across a wide range of genetic and experimental benchmarks, all without explicitly training on such data. The average pathogenicity score of genes is also predictive for their cell essentiality, capable of identifying short essential genes that existing statistical approaches are underpowered to detect. As a resource to the community, we provide a database of predictions for all possible human single amino acid substitutions and classify 89% of missense variants as either likely benign or likely pathogenic.
The D129L protein of African swine fever virus interferes with the binding of transcriptional coactivator p300 and IRF3 to prevent beta interferon induction
Authors: Zhang Kehui , Ge Hailiang , Zhou Pingping , Li Lian-Feng , Dai Jingwen , Cao Hongwei , Luo Yuzi , Sun Yuan , Wang Yanjin , Li Jiaqi , Yu Shaoxiong , Li Su , Qiu Hua-Ji
Published: September 2023

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a large and complex DNA virus that causes a highly lethal swine disease, against which there is no vaccine available except in Vietnam. ASFV has developed multiple strategies to evade the antiviral innate immune responses. Here, we revealed that the D129L protein (pD129L), a nonstructural protein of ASFV, counteracted the type I interferon (IFN) responses and IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) expression. Furthermore, we demonstrated that knockdown of
D129L
by specific small interfering RNAs enhanced the transcription of IFN-
β
mRNA in the ASFV-infected primary porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs). Mechanistically, pD129L did not affect the expression of adaptors in the cGAS-STING signaling pathway or the nuclear translocation of IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3). Importantly, pD129L specifically bound to the transcriptional coactivators CBP/p300 in the nucleus and inhibited the interaction of IRF3 with CBP/p300, which in turn suppressed the activation of the
IFN-β
promoter to antagonize the IFN-
β
induction. More specifically, the HrcA domain of pD129L and the IRF3-binding domain of p300 were mapped crucial for their interaction. Taken together, our findings demonstrate a novel immunoevasion mechanism evolved by ASFV to escape the host antiviral response, which provides a new target for the development of antiviral strategies.

IMPORTANCE

African swine fever (ASF) is an acute, hemorrhagic, and severe porcine infectious disease caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV). ASF outbreaks severely threaten the global pig industries and result in serious economic losses. No safe and efficacious commercial vaccine is currently available except in Vietnam. To date, large gaps in the knowledge concerning viral biological characteristics and immunoevasion strategies have hindered the ASF vaccine design. In this study, we demonstrate that pD129L negatively regulates the type I interferon (IFN) signaling pathway by interfering with the interaction of the transcriptional coactivator p300 and IRF3, thereby inhibiting the induction of type I IFNs. This study reveals a novel immunoevasion strategy employed by ASFV, shedding new light on the intricate mechanisms for ASFV to evade the host immune responses.
Virome of high-altitude canine digestive tract and genetic characterization of novel viruses potentially threatening human health
Authors: Jiang Xiaojie , Liu Jia , Xi Yuan , Zhang Qing , Wang Yongshun , Zhao Min , Lu Xiang , Wu Haisheng , Shan Tongling , Ni Bin , Zhang Wen , Ma Xiao
Published: September 2023

The majority of currently emerging infectious illnesses are zoonotic infections, which have caused serious public health and economic implications. The development of viral metagenomics has helped us to explore unknown viruses. We collected 1,970 canine feces from Yushu and Guoluo in the plateau region of China for this study to do a metagenomics analysis of the viral community of the canine digestive tract. Our analysis identified 203 novel viruses, classified into 11 known families and 2 unclassified groups. These viruses include the hepatitis E virus, first identified in dogs, and the astrovirus, coronavirus, polyomavirus, and others. The relationship between the newly identified canine viruses and known viruses was investigated through the use of phylogenetic analysis. Furthermore, we demonstrated the cross-species transmission of viruses and predicted new viruses that may cause diseases in both humans and animals, providing technical support for the prevention and control of diseases caused by environmental pollution viruses.

IMPORTANCE

Most emerging infectious diseases are due to zoonotic disease agents. Because of their effects on the security of human or animal life, agriculture production, and food safety, zoonotic illnesses and livestock diseases are of worldwide significance. Because dogs are closely related to humans and domestic animals, they serve as one of the important links in the transmission of zoonotic and livestock diseases. Canines can contaminate the environment in which humans live such as water and soil through secretions, potentially altering the human gut microbiota or causing diseases. Our study enriched the viral community in the digestive tract microbiome of dogs and found types of viruses that threaten human health, providing technical support for the prevention and control of early warning of diseases caused by environmental contaminant viruses.
Gut microbiota of an Amazonian fish in a heterogeneous riverscape: integrating genotype, environment, and parasitic infections
Authors: Leroux Nicolas , Sylvain Francois-Etienne , Holland Aleicia , Luis Val Adalberto , Derome Nicolas
Published: September 2023

A number of key factors can structure the gut microbiota of fish such as environment, diet, health state, and genotype.
Mesonauta festivus
, an Amazonian cichlid, is a relevant model organism to study the relative contribution of these factors on the community structure of fish gut microbiota.
M. festivus
has well-studied genetic populations and thrives in rivers with drastically divergent physicochemical characteristics. Here, we collected 167 fish from 12 study sites and used 16S and 18S rRNA metabarcoding approaches to characterize the gut microbiome structure of
M. festivus
. These data sets were analyzed in light of the host fish genotypes (genotyping-by-sequencing) and an extensive characterization of environmental physico-chemical parameters. We explored the relative contribution of environmental dissimilarity, the presence of parasitic taxa, and phylogenetic relatedness on structuring the gut microbiota. We documented occurrences of
Nyctotherus
sp. infecting a fish and linked its presence to a dysbiosis of the host gut microbiota. Moreover, we detected the presence of helminths which had a minor impact on the gut microbiota of their host. In addition, our results support a higher impact of the phylogenetic relatedness between fish rather than environmental similarity between sites of study on structuring the gut microbiota for this Amazonian cichlid. Our study in a heterogeneous riverscape integrates a wide range of factors known to structure fish gut microbiomes. It significantly improves understanding of the complex relationship between fish, their parasites, their microbiota, and the environment.

IMPORTANCE

The gut microbiota is known to play important roles in its host immunity, metabolism, and comportment. Its taxonomic composition is modulated by a complex interplay of factors that are hard to study simultaneously in natural systems.
Mesonauta festivus
, an Amazonian cichlid, is an interesting model to simultaneously study the influence of multiple variables on the gut microbiota. In this study, we explored the relative contribution of the environmental conditions, the presence of parasitic infections, and the genotype of the host on structuring the gut microbiota of
M. festivus
in Amazonia. Our results highlighted infections by a parasitic ciliate that caused a disruption of the gut microbiota and by parasitic worms that had a low impact on the microbiota. Finally, our results support a higher impact of the genotype than the environment on structuring the microbiota for this fish. These findings significantly improve understanding of the complex relationship among fish, their parasites, their microbiota, and the environment.
Characterization of 29 newly isolated bacteriophages as a potential therapeutic agent against IMP-6-producing
Klebsiella pneumoniae
from clinical specimens
Authors: Kondo Kohei , Nakano Satoshi , Hisatsune Junzo , Sugawara Yo , Kataoka Michiyo , Kayama Shizuo , Sugai Motoyuki , Kawano Mitsuoki
Published: September 2023

Carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacteriaceae
(CPE) are one of the most detrimental species of antibiotic-resistant bacteria globally. Phage therapy has emerged as an effective strategy for the treatment of CPE infections. In western Japan, the rise of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
strains harboring the pKPI-6 plasmid encoding
bla
IMP-6
is of increasing concern. To address this challenge, we isolated 29 phages from Japanese sewage, specifically targeting 31
K
.
pneumoniae
strains and one
Escherichia coli
strain harboring the pKPI-6 plasmid. Electron microscopy analysis revealed that among the 29 isolated phages, 21 (72.4%), 5 (17.2%), and 3 (10.3%) phages belonged to myovirus, siphovirus, and podovirus morphotypes, respectively. Host range analysis showed that 18
Slopekvirus
strains within the isolated phages infected 25–26
K
.
pneumoniae
strains, indicating that most of the isolated phages have a broad host range. Notably,
K. pneumoniae
strain Kp21 was exclusively susceptible to phage øKp_21, whereas Kp22 exhibited susceptibility to over 20 phages. Upon administering a phage cocktail composed of 10 phages, we observed delayed emergence of phage-resistant bacteria in Kp21 but not in Kp22. Intriguingly, phage-resistant Kp21 exhibited heightened sensitivity to other bacteriophages, indicating a “trade-off” for resistance to phage øKp_21. Our proposed phage set has an adequate number of phages to combat the
K. pneumoniae
strain prevalent in Japan, underscoring the potential of a well-designed phage cocktail in mitigating the occurrence of phage-resistant bacteria.

IMPORTANCE

The emergence of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
harboring the
bla
IMP-6
plasmid poses an escalating threat in Japan. In this study, we found 29 newly isolated bacteriophages that infect
K. pneumoniae
strains carrying the pKPI-6 plasmid from clinical settings in western Japan. Our phages exhibited a broad host range. We applied a phage cocktail treatment composed of 10 phages against two host strains, Kp21 and Kp22, which displayed varying phage susceptibility patterns. Although the phage cocktail delayed the emergence of phage-resistant Kp21, it was unable to hinder the emergence of phage-resistant Kp22. Moreover, the phage-resistant Kp21 became sensitive to other phages that were originally non-infective to the wild-type Kp21 strains. Our study highlights the potential of a well-tailored phage cocktail in reducing the occurrence of phage-resistant bacteria.
Digitalization of Genetic Information: Prospects and Challenges
Authors: Namsaraev Z. B. , Korzhenkov A. A. , Fedosov D. Yu. , Patrushev M. V.
Published: September 2023

Abstract—The process of the digitalization of biological information is currently in its early stages of development and is characterized by the accelerated exponential growth of databases, which offers great opportunities for the development of personalized medicine, biodiversity conservation, the development of biotechnology and agriculture, but, at the same time, provides additional opportunities for the development of dual-use technologies and biological terrorism. The purpose of this work is to analyze the current situation in the field of digital sequence information and the global challenges facing humanity as the volume of genetic information continues to increase. It is urgent to develop mechanisms of national and international control in this area, as well as to find the optimal balance between the requirements of confidentiality of personal data of the population, compliance with legal and ethical standards, the need for scientific research, the development of personalized medicine technologies, and the development of business models and organizational and legal forms able to accompany further growth of digital sequence information.
Subarachnoid haemorrhage associated with pituitary apoplexy and radiographically occult supraclinoid internal carotid artery aneurysms
Authors: Christodoulides Alexei , Burket Noah J , Virtanen Piiamaria , Lane Brandon C
Published: September 2023

In patients with pituitary adenomas, incidental intracranial aneurysms have been documented. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of preoperative imaging in these patients. However, imaging may be limited and fail to show the presence of vascular abnormalities. In this report, we discuss a case of a man in his 30s presenting with a newly diagnosed pituitary adenoma. CT and MRI, on admission, showed a pituitary mass with extension into the right cavernous sinus. After a sudden neurological deterioration, emergent CT/CT angiography revealed pituitary apoplexy with subarachnoid extension without vascular abnormalities. Successful emergency transsphenoidal hypophysectomy was followed by digital subtraction angiography which revealed the presence of two right supraclinoid internal carotid artery aneurysms. With this case, we aim to highlight the need for further vascular imaging in patients with pituitary apoplexy and subarachnoid haemorrhage, as preoperative imaging may be negative for vascular abnormalities especially in the setting of cavernous sinus invasion.
Coexistence of Rosai-Dorfman disease and Hodgkin’s lymphoma in a patient with cervical lymphadenopathy
Authors: González Turienzo Elena , Domínguez Celis Felipe , Martínez Ruiz de Apodaca Paula , Pons Rocher Francisco
Published: September 2023

A man in his 40s, with no tobacco or alcohol habit, was referred to the otorhinolaryngology department presenting with a 2-month history of enlarged left cervical lymphadenopathy with no other signs or symptoms. The ear, nose and throat examination showed no abnormalities apart from the described lymphadenopathy. An ultrasound scan suggested these nodes to be part of either an inflammatory or a malignant process. Subsequent positron emission tomography-CT proved those lymph nodes to be metabolically active, as well as others within the thorax. Cervicotomy was performed and the histopathological analysis showed dilated sinuses and histiocytes with emperipolesis. Suspecting Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD), high-dose steroid therapy was started; but given no improvement was observed, a second cervicotomy was performed, with the histopathological diagnosis of the latter of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The present article aims to emphasise the need to exclude haematological disorders whenever RDD histology is observed, given their possible coexistence, and a worse outcome and clinical and histopathological semblance.
Aorto–mesenteric compass syndrome (Wilkie’s syndrome) in the differential diagnosis of chronic abdominal pain
Authors: Forte Angelo , Santarpia Lidia , Venetucci Piero , Barbato Antonio
Published: September 2023

A woman in her 40s was admitted to hospital with weight loss, asthenia, persistent abdominal pain and post-prandial nausea and vomiting. Other comorbidities were anxiety-depressive disorder, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and fibrocystic mastopathy. On admission her body mass index (BMI) was 15.57 kg/m2with a reported weight loss of 6 kg during the last 3 months. The patient underwent a double contrast abdominal CT scan, which showed that the third portion of the duodenum appeared to be compressed between the superior mesenteric artery and the abdominal aorta. After a multidisciplinary evaluation, a conservative approach and nutritional supplementation was decided upon and administered. At the 1-year follow-up the symptoms had greatly improved; the epigastric pain, although persistent, was reduced, also due to the weight gain to 50 kg (BMI 19.5 kg/m2). Wilkie’s syndrome, in its acquired form, predominantly affects young women after rapid weight loss. In the diagnostic work-up, case history, physical examination and radiological findings play a key role.
Endourological management of ureteric stump syndrome
Authors: Shrivastava Nikita , Bhargava Priyank , Choudhary Gautam Ram
Published: September 2023

A man in his 50s presented with right flank pain and intermittent haematuria for 15 days. He was evaluated and diagnosed to have bilateral staghorn renal calculi with left poorly functioning kidney. He underwent right kidney stone clearance followed by laparoscopic left simple nephrectomy. Postoperatively, he developed recurrent urinary tract infections. On evaluation, non-contrast CT of the abdomen revealed calculus in left ureteral stump and he was diagnosed to have ureteric stump syndrome. He underwent ureteroscopy which revealed multiple stump calculi and complete stone clearance was achieved. Currently, the patient is asymptomatic and doing well after a follow-up of 1 year.
Abnormal uterine bleeding: an insidious presentation
Authors: Almeida Lopes Teresa , Carvalho Marta Martins , Brito Nádia , Neves Catarina
Published: September 2023

An adolescent was referred to the emergency department due to abnormal uterine haemorrhages in the previous 2 months, associated with dizziness in the last month. At observation, she was haemodynamically stable, with good clinical impression, but evident mucocutaneous pallor. Full blood count confirmed a severe anaemia (haemoglobin 47 g/L). She received red blood cell transfusion (10 mL/kg) and started oral oestradiol. She was discharged, with oral oestradiol and oral iron supplementation. Two weeks later, she started treatment with oestradiol and progestin. The patient had a good recovery, without new similar episodes.
Chronic wounds in a multiethnic Asian population: a cost of illness study
Authors: Graves Nicholas , Ganesan Ganga , Tan Kelvin Bryan , Goh Orlanda QM , Ho Jackie , Chong Tze Tec , Bishnoi Priya , Carmody David , Yuh Ang Shin , Ng Yi Zhen , Lo Zhiwen , Enming Yong , Abu Bakar Aloweni Fazila , Zifei Wang , Harding Keith
Published: September 2023

Objective

To estimate the ‘cost of illness’ arising from chronic wounds in Singapore.

Design

Incidence-based cost of illness study using evidence from a range of sources.

Setting

Singapore health services.

Participants

We consider 3.49 million Singapore citizens and permanent residents. There are 16 752 new individuals with a chronic wound in 2017, with 598 venous ulcers, 2206 arterial insufficiency ulcers, 6680 diabetic ulcers and 7268 pressure injuries.

Primary outcome measures expressed in monetary terms are the value of all hospital bed days lost for the population; monetary value of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) lost in the population; costs of all outpatient visits; and costs of all poly clinic, use of Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) and emergency departments (EDs) visits. Intermediate outcomes that inform the primary outcomes are also estimated.

Results

Total annual cost of illness was $350 million (range $72–$1779 million). With 168 503 acute bed days taken up annually (range 141 966–196 032) that incurred costs of $139 million (range 117–161 million). Total costs to health services were $184 million (range $120–$1179 million). Total annual costs of lost health outcomes were 2077 QALYs (range −2657 to 29 029) valued at $166 million (range −212 to 2399 million).

Conclusions

The costs of chronic wounds are large to Singapore. Costs can be reduced by making positive investments for comprehensive wound prevention and treatment programmes.
Prevalence and phenotypic trajectories of hypoxaemia among hospitalised adults in Kenya: a single-centre, prospective cohort study
Authors: Navuluri Neelima , Lagat David K , Birgen Elcy , Kitur Sylvia , Kussin Peter S , Murdoch David M , Thielman Nathan M , Parish Alice , Green Cynthia L , MacIntyre Neil , Egger Joseph R , Wools-Kaloustian Kara , Que Loretta G
Published: September 2023

Objective

Global medical oxygen security is limited by knowledge gaps in hypoxaemia burden and oxygen access in low-income and middle-income countries. We examined the prevalence and phenotypic trajectories of hypoxaemia among hospitalised adults in Kenya, with a focus on chronic hypoxaemia.

Design

Single-centre, prospective cohort study.

Setting

National tertiary referral hospital in Eldoret, Kenya between September 2019 and April 2022.

Participants

Adults (age ≥18 years) admitted to general medicine wards.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Our primary outcome was proportion of patients who were hypoxaemic (oxygen saturation, SpO2 ≤88%) on admission. Secondary outcomes were proportion of patients with hypoxaemia on admission who had hypoxaemia resolution, hospital discharge, transfer, or death among those with unresolved hypoxaemia or chronic hypoxaemia. Patients remaining hypoxaemic for ≤3 days after admission were enrolled into an additional cohort to determine chronic hypoxaemia. Chronic hypoxaemia was defined as an SpO2 ≤ 88% at either 1-month post-discharge follow-up or, for patients who died prior to follow-up, a documented SpO2 ≤88% during a previous hospital discharge or outpatient visit within the last 6 months.

Results

We screened 4104 patients (48.5% female, mean age 49.4±19.4 years), of whom 23.8% were hypoxaemic on admission. Hypoxaemic patients were significantly older and more predominantly female than normoxaemic patients. Among those hypoxaemic on admission, 33.9% had resolution of their hypoxaemia as inpatients, 55.6% had unresolved hypoxaemia (31.0% died before hospital discharge, 13.3% were alive on discharge and 11.4% were transferred) and 10.4% were lost to follow-up. The prevalence of chronic hypoxaemia was 2.1% in the total screened population, representing 8.8% of patients who were hypoxaemic on admission. Chronic hypoxaemia was determined at 1-month post-discharge among 59/86 patients and based on prior documentation among 27/86 patients.

Conclusion

Hypoxaemia is highly prevalent among adults admitted to a general medicine ward at a national referral hospital in Kenya. Nearly 1 in 11 patients who are hypoxaemic on admission are chronically hypoxaemic.
HIV and syphilis testing for women and heterosexual men aged above 25 years in the Netherlands: possibilities for targeted testing at sexual health centres
Authors: Willemstein Inge J M , Götz Hannelore M , Visser Maartje , Heijne Janneke C M
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Targeted testing policy for HIV/syphilis at Dutch sexual health centres (SHCs) was evaluated for its efficiency in younger heterosexuals but not for heterosexuals ≥25 years. Currently, all older heterosexuals are tested for HIV/syphilis at SHCs. To explore possibilities for increased efficiency of testing in heterosexuals aged >25 years, this study aimed to identify determinants of HIV and syphilis diagnoses that could be used in targeted testing strategies.

Design

An observational study using surveillance data from all Dutch SHC.

Participants

Women and heterosexual men aged >25 years visiting SHC between 2015 and 2021.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was HIV/syphilis diagnosis, determinants of a diagnosis were analysed. Based on these determinants and their applicability in SHC practice, different targeted testing scenarios were evaluated. For each scenario, the percentage of consultations involving HIV and syphilis testing and the total amount of missed HIV and syphilis diagnoses were calculated.

Results

109 122 consultations were included among 75 718 individuals. The strongest determinants of HIV/syphilis diagnosis were HIV/syphilis-specific symptoms (adjusted OR (aOR) 34.9 (24.1–50.2)) and receiving partner notification (aOR 18.3 (13.2–25.2)), followed by low/middle education level (aOR 2.8 (2.0–4.0)), male sex (aOR 2.2 (1.6–3.0)) and age ≥30 years (aOR 1.8 (1.3–2.5)). When applying feasible determinants to targeted testing scenarios, HIV/syphilis testing would have been conducted in 54.5% of all consultations, missing 2 HIV and 3 syphilis diagnoses annually (13.4% and 11.4% of all diagnoses, respectively). In the scenario with the lowest number of missed HIV/syphilis diagnoses (0.3 HIV and 2 syphilis diagnoses annually), HIV/syphilis testing would have been conducted in 74.2% of all consultations.

Conclusions

In any targeted testing scenario studied, HIV and/or syphilis diagnoses would have been missed. This raises the question whether it is acceptable to put any of these scenarios into practice. This study contributes to a discussion about the impact of targeted testing policy.