bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term multiband correlation study and spectral energy distribution modeling of blazar 3C 454.3
Authors: Zhou Bing , Dai Benzhong , Yang Jianping
Published: May 2021

We analyzed the multiband and long-term light curves of blazar 3C 454.3 over a time span of more than 10 yr. The discrete correlation functions (DCFs) between the γ-rays (Fermi-LAT) and the U and V bands (Swift) show simultaneous variations above the 99% confidence level. The DCFs between the X-ray band and the ultraviolet/U bands (Swift-UVW2, Swift-UVW1) are correlated over the 95% confidence level, with the X-ray variations leading by 98 d. The observed X-ray emission might not come from the same region as the γ-rays. For the studied time range, we identify four flare states and one quiescent state in the γ-ray light curve. With a synchrotron self-Compton + external Compton (EC) model, the spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of the five quasi-simultaneous observed states are modeled to discuss the underlying reasons for the flares. The EC soft photons could originate from the broad-line region (BLR) rather than from the dusty torus for the quiescent and four activity states. This indicates that the γ-ray radiation area may be located inside the BLR. From the quiescent state to the flare states, the fitting results show that N0, γmax, γbr, and δ increase, while B and R decrease. The reproduction of the SEDs implies that the increase in the bulk Lorentz factor and the emitted electron power might be the primary reason for the γ-ray flares.
Use of optical imaging datasets to assess biogeochemical contributions of the mesozooplankton
Authors: Maas Amy E , Gossner Hannah , Smith Maisie J , Blanco-Bercial Leocadio
Published: May 2021

The increasing use of image-based observing systems in marine ecosystems allows for more quantitative analysis of the ecological zonation of zooplankton. Developing methods that take advantage of these systems can provide an increasingly nuanced understanding of how morphometric characteristics (especially size) are related to distribution, abundance and ecosystem function via a wider application of allometric calculations of biogeochemical fluxes. Using MOCNESS sampling of zooplankton near the Bermuda Atlantic Time Series and a ZooSCAN/EcoTaxa pipeline, we apply a new taxonomically resolved biomass to biovolume dataset and a suite of R scripts that provide information about the relationships between zooplankter size, taxonomy, distribution, depth of migration, magnitude of migration and biogeochemical contributions (e.g. respiratory O2 consumption). The analysis pipeline provides a framework for quantitatively comparing and testing hypotheses about the distribution, migration patterns and biogeochemical impacts of mesozooplankton. Specifically, our code helps to visualize a size-based structure in the extent of vertical migration and allow for a quantification of the relative importance of non-migratory versus migratory organisms of various size classes. It additionally allows us to quantify the error associated with various methods of calculating active flux, with size-based analysis being the most important methodological choice, and taxonomic identification being the least.
Would Eliminating Racial Disparities in Motor Vehicle Searches have Efficiency Costs?
Authors: Feigenberg Benjamin , Miller Conrad
Published: May 2021

During traffic stops, police search black and Hispanic motorists more than twice as often as white motorists, yet those searches are no more likely to yield contraband. We ask whether equalizing search rates by motorist race would reduce contraband yield. We use unique administrative data from Texas to isolate variation in search behavior across and within highway patrol troopers and find that search rates are unrelated to the proportion of searches that yield contraband. We find that troopers can equalize search rates across racial groups, maintain the status quo search rate, and increase contraband yield. Troopers appear to be limited in their ability to discern between motorists who are more or less likely to carry contraband.
The Social and Institutional Contexts Underlying Landlords’ Eviction Practices
Authors: Gomory Henry
Published: May 2021

This article examines how and why landlords vary in their uses of eviction filings. Drawing on over four million property tax records, business filings, and court-ordered eviction documents over fifteen years in Boston, Massachusetts, I show that large landlords file evictions at two to three times the rates of small landlords, and this disparity is not driven by the characteristics of the tenants they rent to. Not only do large landlords file more often, but also over less money owed and more often as a rent collection strategy. Drawing on analyses of the interpersonal conflict during eviction and a range of landlord characteristics, I show that these divergent eviction practices derive from the disparate social and institutional contexts within which landlords make eviction decisions. For small landlords, organizational informality and personal relationships with tenants make eviction a morally fraught decision, while for large landlords, formal decision-making and arms-length relationships with tenants make eviction a routine business practice. By showing both how and why landlords use evictions differently, this article contributes to the sociological understanding of residential instability and of landlord behavior.
Are free workplace health promotion apps adequately mapped with behavior change theories, techniques and desired features? A content analysis
Authors: Chandrasekaran Baskaran , Kundapur Poornima P , Rao Chythra R
Published: May 2021

Free smartphone applications that aim to promote physical activity or reduce sedentary behavior at workplaces were questioned for its content such as technical features, behavior change techniques (BCT) and security concerns. To evaluate systematically whether smartphone apps are mapped adequately with BCTs and security concerns. Free apps in Google Play store were searched and coded for BCTs systematically in July 2020. Two reviewers independently coded apps that aimed to promote physical activity (n = 18) and reduce sedentary behavior (n = 16) using a taxonomy of 26 BCTs. BCTs, features and security concerns among apps promoting physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior were analyzed. While the features (social support, gamification, or rewards) help increase physical activity and decrease sedentary behavior, the apps do not typically include the above features. Further, the apps were based on an average of 13 (4–21) BCTs. The BCTs coded most frequently were “self-monitoring” (100%), “general encouragement” (97%), and “goal setting” (n = 94%). No significant relation between user rating and BCTs was found in the apps. Majority of the free apps that aimed to increase physical activity or reduce sedentary behavior at workplaces were not adequately based on BCTs and lacked essential features facilitating long term behavior compliance at workplaces. Hence, there is a need to develop newer applications mapped adequately with BCTs, involving the collaborative work of behavioral scientists, app developers and policymakers. Clinical Trial Registry of India CTRI/2020/03/024138.
Sedentary behavior moderates the relationship between physical activity and cardiometabolic risk in young Latino children
Authors: Malik Jamil A , Coto Jennifer , Pulgaron Elizabeth R , Daigre Amber , Sanchez Janine E , Goldberg Ronald B , Wilson Dawn K , Delamater Alan M
Published: May 2021

This study investigated the role of objectively measured moderate–vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behavior on cardiometabolic risk factors of young Latino children. We hypothesized that MVPA would be associated with lower cardiometabolic risk when sedentary behavior is low. We studied 86 primarily low-income, Latino children using a cross-sectional study design. The study sample consisted of 51 girls and 35 boys, with mean age 5.6 (SD = .53) years. Physical activity was measured by accelerometry, anthropometric measures obtained, and fasting blood samples were used to measure cardiometabolic risk factors. Greater levels of sedentary behavior were associated with increased waist circumference (rs = .24, p < .05) and metabolic risks. MVPA, however, had significant beneficial associations with all cardiometabolic risk factors (rs-range = −.20 to −.45, p < .05) with the exception of plasma insulin. MVPA predicted latent variables representing anthropometric risk (β = −.57, p < .01), cardiac risk (β = −.74, p < .01), and metabolic risk (β = −.88, p < .01). Sedentary behavior significantly moderated the effect of MVPA on anthropometric (β-interaction = .49, p < .01), cardiac (β-interaction = .45, p < .01), and metabolic risk (β-interaction = .77, p < .01), such that more MVPA was associated with better health outcomes under conditions of lower sedentary behavior. The model explained 13%, 22%, and 45% variance in anthropometric, cardiac, and metabolic risk factors, respectively. Increased MVPA is associated with decreased cardiometabolic risk in young Latino children, particularly when sedentary behavior is low.
Critical Evaluation of Low-Molecular Weight Respiratory Sensitizers and Their Protein Reactivity Potential Toward Lysine Residues
Authors: Krutz Nora L , Kimber Ian , Ryan Cindy A , Kern Petra S , Gerberick G Frank
Published: May 2021

Interest in the development of methods to evaluate the respiratory sensitization potential of low-molecular weight chemicals continues, but no method has yet been generally accepted or validated. A lack of chemical reference standards, together with uncertainty regarding relevant immunological mechanisms, has hampered method development. The first key event in the development of either skin or respiratory sensitization is the formation of stable adducts of the chemical with host proteins. This event is measured in the Direct Peptide Reactivity Assay using cysteine- and lysine-containing model peptides. It is hypothesized that protein reactivity and subsequent adduct formation may represent the earliest point of divergence in the pathways leading to either skin or respiratory sensitization. Direct Peptide Reactivity Assay data for 200 chemicals were compiled and grouped into respiratory, skin and nonsensitizers. Chemicals grouping was based on extensive literature research and expert judgment. To evaluate if chemical groups represent different peptide reactivity profiles, peptide reactivity data were clustered and compared with information on protein binding mechanisms and chemical categories available via the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. Toolbox. Respiratory sensitizers (n = 15) showed a significant (3-fold) higher lysine reactivity than skin sensitizers (n = 129). However, this difference was driven largely by the high representation of acid anhydrides among the respiratory sensitizers that showed clear lysine selectivity. Collectively, these data suggest that preferential reactivity for either cysteine or lysine is associated primarily with chemical structure, and that lysine preference is not a unifying characteristic of chemical respiratory allergens.
An assessment of the reported impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on leprosy services using an online survey of practitioners in leprosy referral centres
Authors: de Barros Barbara , Lambert Saba M , Negera Edessa , de Arquer Guillermo Robert , Sales Anna M , Darlong Joydeepa , Dias Vivianne L A , Rozario Benjamin Jewel , Pai Vivek V , Alinda Medhi Denisa , Listiawan M Yulianto , Hagge Deanna A , Shah Mahesh , Lockwood Diana N J , Walker Stephen L
Published: May 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to governments implementing a variety of public health measures to control transmission and has affected health services. Leprosy is a communicable neglected tropical disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae and is an important health problem in low- and middle-income countries. The natural history of leprosy means that affected individuals need long-term follow-up. The measures recommended to reduce transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can create barriers to health services. We evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic response on leprosy services and disease management.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional online survey with healthcare professionals in leprosy referral centres.

Results

Eighty percent of leprosy diagnostic services were reduced. All respondents reported that multidrug therapy (MDT) was available but two reported a reduced stock. Clinicians used alternative strategies such as telephone consultations to maintain contact with patients. However, patients were not able to travel to the referral centres.

Discussion

This study highlights the effects of the initial phase of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on leprosy services in a range of leprosy-endemic countries. Many services remained open, providing leprosy diagnosis, MDT and leprosy reaction medications. Centres developed innovative measures to counter the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bacillus subtilis GB519 Promotes Rice Growth and Reduces the Damages Caused by Rice Blast Fungus Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Zhu Feng , Wang Jichun , Jia Yulin , Tian Chengli , Zhao Di , Wu Xian , Liu Yanni , Wang Dongyuan , Qi Shanyan , Liu Xiaomei , Li Li , Jiang Zhaoyuan , Li Yushi
Published: May 2021

Rice blast disease caused by fungus Magnaporthe oryzae (syn. Pyricularia oryzae) is one of the most damaging diseases of rice, reducing plant production worldwide. In the present study, Bacillus subtilis strain GB519 was identified from the rhizosphere based on predicted signatures of 16S ribosomal DNA and gyrA gene and morphological, biochemical, and physiological characteristics. Treated with B. subtilis GB519, rice plants exhibited increased germination rate, vigor index, shoot length, shoot fresh weight, and root fresh weight coupled with more production of indole acetic acid, organic phosphorus, and inorganic phosphorus. In culture, GB519 inhibited growth of the following rice fungal pathogens (in order from most effective to least effective): M. oryzae, Ustilaginoidea virens, Fusarium graminearum, F. moniliforme, F. oxysporum, and Rhizoctonia solani. Three years of studies showed that, when rice was sprayed with GB519, there were significant reductions in rice blast incidence in both the greenhouse and fields: 70.3 and 62.1% in 2017, 69.9 and 71.6% in 2018, and 75.1 and 75.6% in 2019, respectively. Such reductions were correlated with accumulated hydrolytic enzymes, including amylases, proteases, chitinase, and lipases, and the defense enzyme activity of the total antioxidant capacity, catalase, and superoxide dismutase in rice. Field experiments showed that the biocontrol efficacy of GB519 was similar to that of other biological and chemical fungicides. Our results indicate that B. subtilis strain GB519 promoted plant growth and reduced blast disease and suggest that this strain has potential to be used as a biological control agent against rice blast.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Comparison of Balanced Crystalloid Solutions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Curran Jeffrey D. , Major Paityn , Tang Kent , Bagshaw Sean M. , Dionne Joanna C. , Menon Kusum , Rochwerg Bram
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVE:

To summarize the evidence comparing various balanced crystalloid solutions.

DATA SOURCES:

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PUBMED, and CENTRAL databases.

STUDY SELECTION:

We included randomized controlled trials that directly compared the IV administration of one balanced crystalloid solution with another.

DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS:

We examined metabolic and patient-important outcomes and conducted meta-analysis using random effects model. For comparisons or outcomes with insufficient data to allow for pooling, we describe results narratively. We assessed risk of bias for individual trials using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and certainty of evidence using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations methodology.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

We included 24 randomized controlled trials comparing Plasmalyte, Ringer’s Lactate, Ringerfundin, Hartmann’s solution, Ringer’s Bicarbonate, Sterofundin, Kabilyte, Normosol, and novel balanced solutions. Of the included studies, 16 were performed in the perioperative setting, six in the ICU, one in the emergency department, and one in healthy volunteers. Administration of Plasmalyte resulted in a lower postinfusion serum chloride concentration (mean difference, 0.83 mmol/L lower; 95% CI, 0.03–1.64 mmol/L lower, low certainty), higher postinfusion base excess (mean difference, 0.65 mmol/L higher, 95% CI, 0.25–1.05 mmol/L higher, low certainty), and lower postinfusion serum lactate levels (mean difference, 0.46 mmol/L lower; 95% CI, 0.05–0.87 mmol/L lower, low certainty) compared with administration of any other balanced crystalloid. There were no important differences in postinfusion serum pH or potassium when comparing Plasmalyte with other balanced crystalloids. Data addressing other comparisons or examining the impact of different balanced crystalloids on patient-important outcomes were sparsely reported and too heterogeneous to allow for pooling.

CONCLUSIONS:

Administration of Plasmalyte results in lower serum concentrations of chloride and lactate, and higher base excess than other balanced crystalloids. The certainty of evidence is low and requires further study in large randomized controlled trials to inform the choice of balanced crystalloid in patients requiring volume replacement.
A High Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio Is Associated With Increased Morbidity and Mortality in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: King Alexander H. , Mehkri Omar , Rajendram Prabalini , Wang Xiaofeng , Vachharajani Vidula , Duggal Abhijit
Published: May 2021

Objectives:

The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio is an inexpensive and simple inflammatory marker. A higher ratio, indicative of an acute hyperinflammatory response or diminished overall physiologic health status, has been associated with poor prognoses. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic potential of admission neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in patients admitted to the medical ICU with coronavirus disease 2019.

Design:

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Setting:

Medical ICU from a large medical center.

Patients:

2,071 consecutive patients admitted to the medical ICU with laboratory-confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 between March 15, 2020, and December 30, 2020, were grouped by neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio above or below the median (7.45) at the time of hospital admission.

Interventions:

Complete blood count with differential at the time of hospital admission.

Measurements and Main Results:

A neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio above 7.45 at the time of hospital admission was associated with increased need for mechanical ventilation (45.8% vs 38.0%, p < 0.0001), vasopressor therapy (55.6% vs 48.2%, p = 0.001), and decreased survival through 180 days (54.8% vs 67.0%, p < 0.0001). Patients with a high neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio exhibited a 1.32 (95% CI, 1.14–1.54) times greater risk of mortality than those with a low neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio.

Conclusions:

The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio at the time of hospital admission is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality. This prognostic indicator may assist clinicians appropriately identify patients at heightened risk for a severe disease course and tailor treatment accordingly.
Listeria cossartiae sp. nov., Listeria immobilis sp. nov., Listeria portnoyi sp. nov. and Listeria rustica sp. nov., isolated from agricultural water and natural environments
Authors: Carlin Catharine R. , Liao Jingqiu , Weller Dan , Guo Xiaodong , Orsi Renato , Wiedmann Martin
Published: May 2021

A total of 27

Listeria

isolates that could not be classified to the species level were obtained from soil samples from different locations in the contiguous United States and an agricultural water sample from New York. Whole-genome sequence-based average nucleotide identity blast (ANIb) showed that the 27 isolates form five distinct clusters; for each cluster, all draft genomes showed ANI values of <95 % similarity to each other and any currently described

Listeria

species, indicating that each cluster represents a novel species. Of the five novel species, three cluster with the Listeria sensu stricto clade and two cluster with sensu lato. One of the novel sensu stricto species, designated L. cossartiae sp. nov., contains two subclusters with an average ANI similarity of 94.9%, which were designated as subspecies. The proposed three novel sensu stricto species (including two subspecies) are Listeria farberi sp. nov. (type strain FSL L7-0091T=CCUG 74668T=LMG 31917T; maximum ANI 91.9 % to

L. innocua

), Listeria immobilis sp. nov. (type strain FSL L7-1519T=CCUG 74666T=LMG 31920T; maximum ANI 87.4 % to

L. ivanovii

subsp.

londoniensis

) and Listeria cossartiae sp. nov. [subsp. cossartiae (type strain FSL L7-1447T=CCUG 74667T=LMG 31919T; maximum ANI 93.4 % to

L. marthii

) and subsp. cayugensis (type strain FSL L7-0993T=CCUG 74670T=LMG 31918T; maximum ANI 94.7 % to

L. marthii

). The two proposed novel sensu lato species are Listeria portnoyi sp. nov. (type strain FSL L7-1582T=CCUG 74671T=LMG 31921T; maximum ANI value of 88.9 % to

L. cornellensis

and 89.2 % to

L. newyorkensis

) and Listeria rustica sp. nov. (type strain FSL W9-0585T=CCUG 74665T=LMG 31922T; maximum ANI value of 88.7 % to

L. cornellensis

and 88.9 % to

L

.

newyorkensis

). L. immobilis is the first sensu stricto species isolated to date that is non-motile. All five of the novel species are non-haemolytic and negative for phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C activity; the draft genomes lack the virulence genes found in

Listeria

pathogenicity island 1 (LIPI-1), and the internalin genes inlA and inlB, indicating that they are non-pathogenic.
Genomic insight into the Streptomyces aurantiacus clade: reclassification of Streptomyces ederensis as a later heterotypic synonym of Streptomyces umbrinus and Streptomyces glomeroaurantiacus as a later heterotypic synonym of Streptomyces aurantiacus
Authors: Saygin Hayrettin
Published: May 2021

The taxonomic relationships and genome features of the type strains in the

Streptomyces aurantiacus

clade, including

Streptomyces aurantiacus

,

Streptomyces ederensis

,

Streptomyces glomeroaurantiacus

,

Streptomyces umbrinus

,

Streptomyces phaeochromogenes

, Streptomyces dioscori and

Streptomyces tauricus

, were investigated. Type strains of these species shared high 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to each other. Multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) based on atpD, gyrB, recA, rpoB and trpB genes revealed that

S. ederensis

and

S. umbrinus

belong to the same species. Also,

S. aurantiacus

and

S. glomeroaurantiacus

belong to the same species, but the remaining species are not closely related to each other. MLSA results were verified by the results average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) analyses; while the ANI and dDDH values between

S. ederensis

and

S. umbrinus

are 98.1 and 85.4 %, respectively, these values between

S. aurantiacus

and

S. glomeroaurantiacus

are 98.9 and 90.7 %, respectively. The presence of almost the same set of biosynthetic gene clusters and highly consistent phenotypic test results also supported the synonymy between

S. ederensis

and

S. umbrinus

, as well as between

S. aurantiacus

and

S. glomeroaurantiacus

. Therefore,

S. ederensis

should be reclassified as a later heterotypic synonym of

S. umbrinus

and

S. glomeroaurantiacus

should be reclassified as a later heterotypic synonym of

S. aurantiacus

.
Streptococcus vicugnae sp. nov., isolated from faeces of alpacas (Vicugna pacos) and cattle (Bos taurus), Streptococcus zalophi sp. nov., and Streptococcus pacificus sp. nov., isolated from respiratory tract of California sea lions (Zalophus californianus)
Authors: Volokhov Dmitriy V. , Zagorodnyaya Tatiana A. , Shen Zhenyu , Blom Jochen , Furtak Vyacheslav A. , Eisenberg Tobias , Fan Peixin , Jeong Kwangcheol Casey , Gao Yamei , Zhang Shuping , Amselle Megan
Published: May 2021

Four novel independent strains of

Streptococcus

spp. were isolated from faeces of alpaca (SL1232T), cattle (KCJ4950), and from respiratory tract of wild California sea lions (CSL7508T, CSL7591T). The strains were indole-, oxidase- and catalase-negative, non-spore-forming, non-motile Gram-positive cocci in short and long chains, facultative anaerobes. The 16S rRNA gene of SL1232T and KCJ4950 shared 99.40–99.60% nucleotide similarity to strains of S. equinus, S. lutetiensis, S. infantarius, and the 16S rRNA gene of CSL7508T and CSL7591T demonstrated 98.72 and 98.92% similarity, respectively, to

S. marimammalium

. All other known

Streptococcus

species had the 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities of ≤95%. The genomes were sequenced for the novel strains. Average nucleotide identity (ANI) analysis for strains SL1232T and KCJ4950, showed the highest similarity to S. equinus, S. lutetiensis, and

S. infantarius

with 85.21, 87.17, 88.47, 85.54, 87.47 and 88.89%, respectively, and strains CSL7508T and CSL7591T to

S. marimammalium

with 87.16 and 83.97%, respectively. Results of ANI were confirmed by pairwise digital DNA–DNA hybridization and phylogeny, which also revealed that the strains belong to three novel species of the genus

Streptococcus

. Phenotypical features of the novel species were in congruence with closely related members of the genus

Streptococcus

and gave negative reactions with the tested Lancefield serological groups (A-D, F and G). MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry supported identification of the species. Based on these data, we propose three novel species of the genus

Streptococcus

, for which the name Streptococcus vicugnae sp. nov. is proposed with the type strain SL1232T (=NCTC 14341T=DSM 110741T=CCUG 74371T), Streptococcus zalophi sp. nov. is proposed with the type strain CSL7508T (=NCTC 14410T=DSM 110742T=CCUG 74374T) and Streptococcus pacificus sp. nov. is proposed with the type strain CSL7591T (=NCTC 14455T=DSM 111148T=CCUG 74655T). The genome G+C content is 36.89, 34.85, and 35.34 % and draft genome sizes are 1906993, 1581094 and 1656080 bp for strains SL1232T, CSL7508T, and CSL7591T, respectively.
Determination of incompatibility group plasmids and copy number of the bla
NDM-1 gene in carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains recovered from different hospitals in Kerman, Iran
Authors: Aslani Sajad , Kiaei Somayeh , Afgar Ali , Morones-Ramírez José Rubén , Aratboni Hossein Alishah , Faridi Ashkan , Rivera-Mackintosh Luis Roberto , Kalantar-Neyestanaki Davood
Published: May 2021

Introduction. New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM)-producing

Klebsiella pneumoniae

has become a serious global health concern.

Hypothesis/Gap Statement. Due to the high genetic diversity among NDM-positive K. pneumoniae, we need further surveillance and studies to better understand the relationships between them. In addition, the coexistence of several plasmid replicon types in NDM-positive

K. pneumoniae

may affect the copy number of bla
NDM, the MIC level to antibiotics, as well as increasing the chance of horizontal gene transfer.

Aim. The aim of this study was to determine incompatible plasmid groups and copy numbers of bla
NDM, and to investigate the genetic relationship of 37 NDM-positive

K. pneumoniae

in Kerman, Iran.

Methodology. The bla
NDM-1 gene was detected and confirmed by PCR-sequencing. The plasmid replicon types were determined by PCR-based replicon typing (PBRT) and the copy number of bla
NDM-1 was determined by quantitaive real time-PCR (qPCR). Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-PCR typing was used to detect genetic relationships between the strains.

Results. In this study, 10 different replicon types, including Frep [n=25 (67.5 %)], FIIAs [n=11 (29.7 %)], FIA [n=5 (13.5 %)], FIB [n=3 (8.1 %)], I1-Iγ [n=2 (5.4 %)], L/M [n=7 (18.9 %)], A/C [n=7 (18.9 %)], Y [n=3 (8.1 %)], P [n=1 (2.7 %)] and FIC [n=1 (2.7 %)] were reported. The copy numbers of the bla
NDM-1 gene varied from 30.00 to 5.0×106 and no statistically significant correlation was observed between a rise of the MIC to imipenem and the copy numbers of bla
NDM-1 (P>0.05). According to RAPD typing results, 35 strains were divided into five clusters, while two strains were non-typeable.

Conclusion. The spread of NDM-1-producing

K. pneumoniae

strains that carry several plasmid replicon types increases the chance of horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes in hospital settings. In this study, 10 different replicon types were identified. We could not find any relationship between the increase of MIC levels to imipenem and the copy numbers of bla
NDM-1. Therefore, due to the identification of different replicon types in this study, the type and genetic characteristics of bla
NDM-1-carrying plasmids, and other factors such as antibiotic selective pressure, probably affect the copy number of bla
NDM-1 and change the MIC level to imipenem.
Predictors of Social Distancing and Mask-Wearing Behavior: Panel Survey in Seven U.S. States
Authors: Nikolov Plamen , Pape Andreas , Tonguc Ozlem , Williams Charlotte
Published: May 2021

This paper presents preliminary summary results from a longitudinal study of participants in seven U.S. states during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to standard socio-economic characteristics, we collect data on various economic preference parameters: time, risk, and social preferences, and risk perception biases. We pay special attention to predictors that are both important drivers of social distancing and are potentially malleable and susceptible to policy levers. We note three important findings: (1) demographic characteristics exert the largest influence on social distancing measures and mask-wearing, (2) we show that individual risk perception and cognitive biases exert a critical role in influencing the decision to adopt social distancing measures, (3) we identify important demographic groups that are most susceptible to changing their social distancing behaviors. These findings can help inform the design of policy interventions regarding targeting specific demographic groups, which can help reduce the transmission speed of the COVID-19 virus. (JEL I11, I12, I18, D81, D91, D62, D64)
Pathway-based integration of multi-omics data reveals lipidomics alterations validated in an Alzheimer’s Disease mouse model and risk loci carriers
Authors: Garcia-Segura Monica Emili , Durainayagam Brenan R. , Liggi Sonia , Graça Gonçalo , Jimenez Beatriz , Dehghan Abbas , Tzoulaki Ioanna , Karaman Ibrahim , Elliott Paul , Griffin Julian L.
Published: May 2021

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a highly prevalent neurodegenerative disorder. Despite increasing evidence of important metabolic dysregulation in AD, the underlying metabolic changes that may impact amyloid plaque formation are not understood, particularly for late onset AD. This study analyzed genome-wide association studies (GWAS), transcriptomics and proteomics data obtained from several data repositories to obtain differentially expressed (DE) multi-omics elements in mouse models of AD. We characterized the metabolic modulation in these datasets using gene ontology, and transcription factor, pathway and cell-type enrichment analysis. A predicted lipid signature was extracted from genome-scale metabolic networks (GSMN) and subsequently validated in a lipidomic dataset derived from cortical tissue of ABCA7-null mice, a mouse model of one of the genes associated with late onset AD. Moreover, a metabolome-wide association study (MWAS) was performed to further characterize the association between dysregulated lipid metabolism in human blood serum and AD.

We found 203 DE transcripts, 164 DE proteins and 58 DE GWAS-derived mouse orthologs associated with significantly enriched metabolic biological processes. Lipid and bioenergetics metabolic pathways were significantly over-represented across the AD multi-omics datasets. Microglia and astrocytes were significantly enriched in the lipid-predominant AD-metabolic transcriptome. We also extracted a predicted lipid signature that was validated and robustly modelled class separation in the ABCA7 mice cortical lipidome, with 11 of these lipid species exhibiting statistically significant modulations. MWAS revealed 298 AD single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP)-metabolite associations, of which 70% corresponded to lipid classes.

These results support the importance of lipid metabolism dysregulation in AD and highlight the suitability of mapping AD multi-omics data into GSMNs to identify metabolic alterations.
Development of a parent-reported screening tool for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID): Initial validation and prevalence in 4-7-year-old Japanese children
Authors: Dinkler Lisa , Yasumitsu-Lovell Kahoko , Eitoku Masamitsu , Fujieda Mikiya , Suganuma Narufumi , Hatakenaka Yuhei , Hadjikhani Nouchine , Bryant-Waugh Rachel , Råstam Maria , Gillberg Christopher
Published: May 2021

The prevalence of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) in the general child population is still largely unknown and validated screening instruments are lacking. The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of children screening positive for ARFID in a Japanese birth cohort using a newly developed parent-reported screening tool, to estimate the prevalence of children with ARFID experiencing physical versus psychosocial consequences of their eating pattern, and to provide preliminary evidence for the validity of the new screening tool. Data were collected from 3,728 4-7-year-old children born in Kochi prefecture (response rate was 56.5%), Japan, between 2011 and 2014; a sub-sample of the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS). Parents completed a questionnaire including the ARFID screener and several other measures to assess convergent validity. The point prevalence of children screening positive for ARFID was 1.3%; half of them met criteria for ARFID based on psychosocial impairment alone, while the other half met diagnostic criteria relating to physical impairment (and additional psychosocial impairment in many cases). Sensory sensitivity to food characteristics (63%) and/or lack of interest in eating (51%) were the most prevalent drivers of food avoidance. Children screening positive for ARFID were lighter in weight and shorter in height, they showed more problem behaviors related to mealtimes and nutritional intake, and they were more often selective eaters and more responsive to satiety, providing preliminary support for the validity of the new screening tool. This is the largest screening study to date of ARFID in children up to 7 years. Future studies should examine the diagnostic validity of the new ARFID screener using clinically ascertained cases. Further research on ARFID prevalence in the general population is needed.
Detection of Antibody Responses against SARS-CoV-2 in Plasma and Saliva from Vaccinated and Infected Individuals
Authors: Klingler Jéromine , Lambert Gregory S. , Itri Vincenza , Liu Sean , Bandres Juan C. , Enyindah-Asonye Gospel , Liu Xiaomei , Simon Viviana , Gleason Charles R. , Kleiner Giulio , Chiu Hsin-Ping , Hung Chuan-Tien , Kowdle Shreyas , Amanat Fatima , Lee Benhur , Zolla-Pazner Susan , Upadhyay Chitra , Hioe Catarina E.
Published: May 2021

Antibodies (Abs) are essential for the host immune response against SARS-CoV-2, and all the vaccines developed so far have been designed to induce Abs targeting the SARS-CoV-2 spike. Many studies have examined Ab responses in the blood from vaccinated and infected individuals. However, since SARS-CoV-2 is a respiratory virus, it is also critical to understand the mucosal Ab responses at the sites of initial virus exposure. Here, we examined plasma versus saliva Ab responses in vaccinated and convalescent patients. Although saliva levels were significantly lower, a strong correlation was observed between plasma and saliva total Ig levels against all SARS-CoV-2 antigens tested. Virus-specific IgG1 responses predominated in both saliva and plasma, while a lower prevalence of IgM and IgA1 Abs was observed in saliva. Antiviral activities of plasma Abs were also studied. Neutralization titers against the initial WA1 (D614G), B.1.1.7 (alpha) and B.1.617.2 (delta) strains were similar but lower against the B.1.351 (beta) strain. Spike-specific antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) activities were also detected and the levels correlated with spike-binding Ig titers. Interestingly, while neutralization and ADCP potencies of vaccinated and convalescent groups were comparable, enhanced complement deposition to spike-specific Abs was noted in vaccinated versus convalescent groups and corresponded with higher levels of IgG1 plus IgG3 among the vaccinated individuals. Altogether, this study demonstrates the detection of Ab responses after vaccination or infection in plasma and saliva that correlate significantly, although Ig isotypic differences were noted. The induced plasma Abs displayed Fab-mediated and Fc-dependent functions with comparable neutralization and ADCP potencies, but a greater capacity to activate complement was elicited upon vaccination.
SARS-CoV-2 R.1 lineage variants prevailed in Tokyo in March 2021
Authors: Nagano Katsutoshi , Tani-Sassa Chihiro , Iwasaki Yumi , Takatsuki Yuna , Yuasa Sonoka , Takahashi Yuta , Nakajima Jun , Sonobe Kazunari , Ichimura Naoya , Nukui Yoko , Takeuchi Hiroaki , Tanimoto Kousuke , Tanaka Yukie , Kimura Akinori , Tohda Shuji
Published: May 2021

Background

The spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants, such as B.1.1.7 and B.1.351, has become a crucial issue worldwide. Therefore, we began testing all patients with COVID-19 for the N501Y and E484K mutations by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods.

Methods

Nasopharyngeal swab samples from 108 patients who visited our hospital between February and April 2021 were analyzed. The samples were analyzed using reverse transcription-PCR with melting curve analysis to detect the N501Y and E484K mutations. A part of the samples were also subjected to whole genome sequencing (WGS). Clinical parameters such as mortality and admission to the intensive care unit were analyzed to examine the association between increased disease severity and the E484K mutation.

Results

The ratio of cases showing the 501N+484K mutation rapidly increased from 8% in February to 46% in March. WGS revealed that the viruses with 501N+484K mutation are R.1 lineage variants. Evidence of increased disease severity related to the R.1 variants were not found.

Conclusions

We found that the R.1 lineage variants rapidly prevailed in Tokyo in March 2021, which suggests the increased transmissibility of R.1 variants while they showed no increased severity.
Susceptibility and infectiousness of children and adults with SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.7 deduced from three daycare centre outbreaks and related household situations; Germany, 2021
Authors: Loenenbach Anna , Markus Inessa , Lehfeld Ann-Sophie , der Heiden Matthias an , Haas Walter , Kiegele Maya , Ponzi André , Unger-Goldinger Barbara , Weidenauer Cornelius , Schlosser Helen , Beile Alexander , Buchholz Udo
Published: May 2021

We investigated three SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.7 kindergarten outbreaks and related household situations. Despite group cohorting, cases occurred in almost all groups, i.e. also among persons without close contact. Secondary attack rates (SAR) of children were similar to adults (day care: 23% vs. 30%; p=0.15; households: 32% vs. 39%; p=0.27), and also child-induced household outbreaks led to similar SAR compared to adults. With the advent of B.1.1.7, susceptibility and infectiousness of children and adults seem to converge.
Morphological and Functional Assessment of Thyroid in Individuals with Down Syndrome
Authors: Mangabeira Célia Neder Kalil , Mangabeira Rafael Kalil , de Oliveira Andrade Luis Jesuino
Published: May 2021

Individuals with Down’s syndrome (DS) present increased risk for thyroid dysfunction, especially hypothyroidism, due in increased expression of the DYRK1A gene.

Objective

The aim of this study was to make a morphological-functional thyroid assessment in individuals with DS.

Materials and Methods

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study, consisting of 29 individuals with DS, with a mean age of 12,3 ± 9,5 (0.66 – 36.00) years, 16 women (55.2%) and 13 men (44.8%), with a morphological-functional thyroid assessment being made comprising hormonal dose (Free T4, TSH), antithyroid antibody (TPOAb and TgAb) and ultrasonography of the thyroid.

Results

Twenty-three (79.3%) individuals presented normal thyroid function while 6 (20.7%) presented with thyroid dysfunction, 4 with hypothyroidism and 2 with hyperthyroidism. Autoimmune thyroiditis and goiter were present in 27.6% of the individuals.

Conclusion

Thyroid function should be assessed periodically in individuals with DS, in view of the high prevalence of thyroid dysfunction, especially autoimmune thyroiditis with consequent hypothyroidism.
Tie2 activation protects against prothrombotic endothelial dysfunction in COVID-19
Authors: Schmaier Alec A. , Hurtado Gabriel Pajares , Manickas-Hill Zachary J. , Sack Kelsey D. , Chen Siyu M , Bhambhani Victoria , Quadir Juweria , Nath Anjali K. , Collier Ai-ris Y. , Ngo Debby , Barouch Dan H. , Gerszten Robert E. , Yu Xu G. ,   MGH COVID-19 Collection and Processing Team, Peters Kevin , Flaumenhaft Robert , Parikh Samir M.
Published: May 2021

Profound endothelial dysfunction accompanies the microvascular thrombosis commonly observed in severe COVID-19. In the quiescent state, the endothelial surface is anticoagulant, a property maintained at least in part via constitutive signaling through the Tie2 receptor. During inflammation, the Tie2 antagonist angiopoietin-2 (Angpt-2) is released from activated endothelial cells and inhibits Tie2, promoting a prothrombotic phenotypic shift. We sought to assess whether severe COVID-19 is associated with procoagulant dysfunction of the endothelium and alterations in the Tie2-angiopoietin axis. Primary human endothelial cells treated with plasma from patients with severe COVID-19 upregulated the expression of thromboinflammatory genes, inhibited expression of antithrombotic genes, and promoted coagulation on the endothelial surface. Pharmacologic activation of Tie2 with the small molecule AKB-9778 reversed the prothrombotic state induced by COVID-19 plasma in primary endothelial cells. On lung autopsy specimens from COVID-19 patients, we found a prothrombotic endothelial signature as evidenced by increased von Willebrand Factor and loss of anticoagulant proteins. Assessment of circulating endothelial markers in a cohort of 98 patients with mild, moderate, or severe COVID-19 revealed profound endothelial dysfunction indicative of a prothrombotic state. Angpt-2 concentrations rose with increasing disease severity and highest levels were associated with worse survival. These data highlight the disruption of Tie2-angiopoietin signaling and procoagulant changes in endothelial cells in severe COVID-19. Moreover, our findings provide novel rationale for current trials of Tie2 activating therapy with AKB-9778 in severe COVID-19 disease.
Multiparametric MRI of Early Tumor Response to Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Lau Doreen , McLean Mary A. , Priest Andrew N. , Gill Andrew B. , Scott Francis , Patterson Ilse , Carmo Bruno , Riemer Frank , Kaggie Joshua D. , Frary Amy , Milne Doreen , Booth Catherine , Lewis Arthur , Sulikowski Michal , Brown Lee , Lapointe Jean-Martin , Aloj Luigi , Graves Martin J. , Brindle Kevin M. , Corrie Pippa G. , Gallagher Ferdia A.
Published: May 2021

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are now standard of care treatment for many cancers. Treatment failure in metastatic melanoma is often due to tumor heterogeneity not easily captured by conventional CT or tumor biopsy. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate early microstructural and functional changes within melanoma metastases following immune checkpoint blockade using multiparametric MRI.

Methods

Fifteen treatment-naïve metastatic melanoma patients (total 27 measurable target lesions) were imaged at baseline, and following three weeks and twelve weeks of treatment on immune checkpoint inhibitors using T2-weighted imaging, diffusion kurtosis imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI. Treatment timepoint changes in tumor cellularity, vascularity and heterogeneity within individual metastases were evaluated and correlated to the clinical outcome within each patient.

Results

Differential tumor growth kinetics in response to immune checkpoint blockade were measured in individual metastases within the same patient. Early detection of tumor cell death or cell loss measured by a significant increase in the apparent diffusivity Dapp (p < 0.05) was observed in both responding and pseudoprogressive lesions after three week of treatment. Tumor heterogeneity (apparent kurtosis Kapp) was consistently higher in the pseudoprogressive and true progressive lesions, compared to the responding lesions throughout the first twelve weeks of treatment. These preceded tumor regression and significant tumor vascularity changes (Ktrans, ve and vp) detected after twelve weeks of immunotherapy (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Multiparametric MRI demonstrated potential for early detection of successful response to immunotherapy in metastatic melanoma.
Olfactory training and visual stimulation assisted by web-application in patients with persistent olfactory dysfunction after SARS-CoV-2 infection: observational study
Authors: Denis Fabrice , Septans Anne-Lise , Périers Léa , Maillard Jean-Michel , Legoff Florian , Gurden Hirac , Morinière Sylvain
Published: May 2021

Background

Persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD) is a significant complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Olfactory training (OT) using aromatic oils are recommended to improve olfactory recovery, but quantitative data are missing.

Objective

We aimed to quantify the benefit of OT associated with visual stimulation assisted by a dedicated web-application on patients with 1-month or more OD.

Methods

We performed an observational real-life data-based study on a cohort of patients with at least 1-month persistent OD included between 1/30/21 and 3/26/2021. Analysis was performed after a 4-weeks mean time of OT and at least 500 patients assessable for primary outcome. Participants exposed themselves twice daily to odors from four high concentration oils and visual stimulation assisted by a dedicated web-application. Improvement was defined as a 2/10 points increase on self-assessed olfactory visual analogue scale.

Results

548 were assessable for primary outcome assessment. The mean baseline self-assessed olfactory score was 1.9/10 (SD 1.7) and increase to 4.6 (SD 2.8) beyond a mean time of olfactory training of 27.7 days (SD 17.2). Olfactory training was associated with at least 2-points increase in 64.2% (n=352). The rate of patients with improvement was higher in patients having trained for more than 28 days versus patients having trained for less than 28 days (72.2% vs 59.0% respectively, p=.002). The kinetic of improvement was 8 days faster in hyposmic than in anosmic patients (p<.001). The benefit was observed regardless of the duration of the OD.

Conclusions

OT associated with visual stimulation assisted by a dedicated web-application was associated with significant improvement in olfaction, especially if OT duration was superior to 28 days.