bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early life blood lead levels and asthma diagnosis at age 4–6 years
Authors: Feiler Marina Oktapodas , Pavia Carly J. , Frey Sean M. , Parsons Patrick J. , Thevenet-Morrison Kelly , Canfield Richard L. , Jusko Todd A.
Published: November 2021

The USA has a high burden of childhood asthma. Previous studies have observed associations between higher blood lead levels and greater hypersensitivity in children. The objective of the present study was to estimate the association between blood lead concentrations during early childhood and an asthma diagnosis between 48 and 72 months of age amongst a cohort with well-characterized blood lead concentrations. Blood lead concentrations were measured at 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 48 months of age in 222 children. The presence of an asthma diagnosis between 48 and 72 months was assessed using a questionnaire which asked parents or guardians whether they had been told by a physician, in the past 12 months, that their child had asthma. Crude and adjusted risk ratios (RR) of an asthma diagnosis were estimated for several parameterizations of blood lead exposure including lifetime average (6 to 48 months) and infancy average (6 to 24 months) concentrations. After adjustment for child sex, birthweight, daycare attendance, maternal race, education, parity, breastfeeding, income, and household smoking, age-specific or composite measures of blood lead were not associated with asthma diagnosis by 72 months of age in this cohort.
Azoospermia and reciprocal translocations: should whole-exome sequencing be recommended?
Authors: Ghieh Farah , Barbotin Anne-Laure , Prasivoravong Julie , Ferlicot Sophie , Mandon-Pepin Béatrice , Fortemps Joanne , Garchon Henri-Jean , Serazin Valérie , Leroy Clara , Marcelli François , Vialard François
Published: November 2021

Background

Although chromosome rearrangements are responsible for spermatogenesis failure, their impact depends greatly on the chromosomes involved. At present, karyotyping and Y chromosome microdeletion screening are the first-line genetic tests for patients with non-obstructive azoospermia. Although it is generally acknowledged that X or Y chromosome rearrangements lead to meiotic arrest and thus rule out any chance of sperm retrieval after a testicular biopsy, we currently lack markers for the likelihood of testicular sperm extraction (TESE) in patients with other chromosome rearrangements.

Results

We investigated the use of a single nucleotide polymorphism comparative genome hybridization array (SNP-CGH) and whole-exome sequencing (WES) for two patients with non-obstructive azoospermia and testicular meiotic arrest, a reciprocal translocation: t(X;21) and t(20;22), and an unsuccessful TESE. No additional gene defects were identified for the t(X;21) carrier - suggesting that t(X;21) alone damages spermatogenesis. In contrast, the highly consanguineous t(20;22) carrier had two deleterious homozygous variants in theTMPRSS9gene; these might have contributed to testicular meiotic arrest. Genetic defect was confirmed with Sanger sequencing and immunohistochemical assessments on testicular tissue sections.

Conclusions

Firstly,TMPRSS9gene defects might impact spermatogenesis. Secondly, as a function of the chromosome breakpoints for azoospermic patients with chromosome rearrangements, provision of the best possible genetic counselling means that genetic testing should not be limited to karyotyping. Given the risks associated with TESE, it is essential to perform WES - especially for consanguineous patients.
Mitochondrial genomes of two parasitic Cuscuta species lack clear evidence of horizontal gene transfer and retain unusually fragmented ccmFC genes
Authors: Anderson Benjamin M. , Krause Kirsten , Petersen Gitte
Published: November 2021

Background

The intimate association between parasitic plants and their hosts favours the exchange of genetic material, potentially leading to horizontal gene transfer (HGT) between plants. With the recent publication of several parasitic plant nuclear genomes, there has been considerable focus on such non-sexual exchange of genes. To enhance the picture on HGT events in a widely distributed parasitic genus, Cuscuta (dodders), we assembled and analyzed the organellar genomes of two recently sequenced species, C. australis and C. campestris, making this the first account of complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) for this genus.

Results

The mitogenomes are 265,696 and 275,898 bp in length and contain a typical set of mitochondrial genes, with 10 missing or pseudogenized genes often lost from angiosperm mitogenomes. Each mitogenome also possesses a structurally unusual ccmFC gene, which exhibits splitting of one exon and a shift to trans-splicing of its intron. Based on phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial genes from across angiosperms and similarity-based searches, there is little to no indication of HGT into the Cuscuta mitogenomes. A few candidate regions for plastome-to-mitogenome transfer were identified, with one suggestive of possible HGT.

Conclusions

The lack of HGT is surprising given examples from the nuclear genomes, and may be due in part to the relatively small size of the Cuscuta mitogenomes, limiting the capacity to integrate foreign sequences.
Effect of renal function on high-density lipoprotein particles in patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Jieni Long , Yazhi Xue , Xiaorong Zeng , Dan Liu , Yusheng Ma , Jiahuan Rao , Bin Zhang , Li Li , Zhigang Guo
Published: November 2021

Background

Although renal insufficiency and dyslipidemia are known to be closely associated, the effect of kidney function on the size and clinical value of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles remains largely unknown, especially in patients with coronary heart disease.

Methods

A total of 419 coronary heart disease patients and 105 non-coronary heart disease patients were included. HDL particle size, represented by HDL-C/apoA-I, was compared between groups stratified by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and Gensini scores using standard Student’s t test and one-way ANOVA. Pearson’s correlation test was performed to analyze the association between eGFR and HDL-C/apoA-I in patients with coronary heart disease. The relationship between HDL particle size and the occurrence of coronary heart disease was explored using Univariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

In patients with coronary heart disease, between-group analysis revealed that HDL-C/apoA-I increased as eGFR declined, and significance appeared as eGFR declined to under 60 ml/min·1.73 m2 (P < 0.001), and Pearson's correlation test also confirmed an inverse correlation between eGFR and HDL-C/apoA-I levels in coronary heart disease patients. When stratified by Gensini scores, in coronary heart disease patients with eGFR ≥ 90 mL/(min·1.73 m2), those with higher Gensini scores had smaller HDL-C/apoA-I. However, with or without kidney insufficiency, smaller HDL-C/apoA-I was associated with a higher occurrence of coronary heart disease (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

With the presence of renal insufficiency, HDL-C/apoA1 was higher in patients with coronary heart disease. Lower HDL-C/apoA1 was still associated with a higher occurrence of coronary heart disease, but the original association between lower HDL-C/apoA1 and more severe coronary artery stenosis was lost in patients with renal insufficiency.
Distribution of inflammatory phenotypes among patients with asthma in Jilin Province, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Shi Bingqing , Li Wei , Dong Hongna , Xu Mengting , Hao Yuqiu , Gao Peng
Published: November 2021

Background

The inflammatory phenotypes of asthma predict the treatment response and prognosis. The phenotype distributions differ depending on the geographical region. This study aimed to assess the distribution of different inflammatory phenotypes among asthma patients in Jilin Province, China.

Methods

A total of 255 patients with asthma were recruited from Jilin Province, China for this cross-sectional study. Each patient underwent sputum induction following clinical assessment and peripheral blood collection. Inflammatory phenotypes were classified according to the inflammatory cell counts in the sputum.

Results

Paucigranulocytic asthma (PGA) was the most common inflammatory phenotype (52.2%), followed by eosinophilic asthma (EA, 38.3%), mixed granulocytic asthma (MGA, 5.2%), and neutrophilic asthma (NA, 4.3%). NA was more common among patients over 45 years old and those who were treated with higher doses of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), but was less common following antibiotics treatment (p < 0.05). The proportion of patients with EA decreased as the ICS treatment dose and time increased (p = 0.038). Patients with uncontrolled asthma had higher numbers of sputum eosinophils and neutrophils (p < 0.05). Patients with severe asthma had a higher percentage of sputum neutrophils (p < 0.05). A greater proportion of patients with NA had severe asthma (60%) compared to those with EA (18.2%) (p = 0.016).

Conclusions

The most common asthma inflammatory cell phenotype in Jilin Province, China is PGA, followed by EA, MGA, and NA. The low prevalence of NA in Jilin Province compared to other countries and also other regions in China might be due to excessive antibiotic use and irregular ICS treatment in this region.
Lipid changes during the perioperative period in patients with early breast cancer: a real-world retrospective analysis
Authors: He Tao , Wang Zhu , Wu Yunhao , Zhang Xinyi , Li Xu , Li Jiayuan , Du Liang , Chen Jie , Lv Qing
Published: November 2021

Background

Surgery remains the major treatment for early breast cancer (BC), but surgery itself is also a trauma which might induce alterations in lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in lipid profiles and to explore factors associated with lipid changes pre- and postoperation.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the pre- and postoperative serum lipid profiles of 1934 BC patients.

Results

The levels of triglycerides (TG) (p < 0.001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) (p < 0.001) were significantly elevated after surgery, while the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) (p < 0.001) were significantly decreased. After surgery, 27.76% of patients with preoperative ortholiposis developed dyslipidemia. Postmenopausal BC patients had a higher incidence of dyslipidemia (32.31%) after surgery than premenopausal BC patients (26.07%; p = 0.041). Additionally, patients with BMI > 24 (34.92%) had a higher incidence of dyslipidemia than patients with BMI ≤ 24 (24.84%; p = 0.001). Moreover, the magnitudes of the TG increase (p < 0.001), cholesterol (TC) increase (p = 0.013) and LDL increase (p = 0.015) in the premenopausal group were all greater than those in the postmenopausal group. After adjusting for multiple baseline covariates, preoperative hyperlipidemia and progesterone receptor (PR)-positive status were significantly associated with elevated TG, TC and LDL levels after surgery.

Conclusions

Serum lipid profiles of BC patients may increase after surgery, especially premenopausal patients. Additionally, postmenopausal and overweight patients may have a higher risk of being diagnosed with dyslipidemia after surgery. Therefore, lipid monitoring, dyslipidemia prevention and corresponding interventions should be taken into consideration during the perioperative period.
Informed consent in psychotherapy: a survey on attitudes among psychotherapists in Switzerland
Authors: Eberle Klara , grosse Holtforth Martin , Inderbinen Marc , Gaab Jens , Nestoriuc Yvonne , Trachsel Manuel
Published: November 2021

Background

The legal and ethical guidelines of psychological professional associations stipulate that informed consent by patients is an essential prerequisite for psychotherapy. Despite this awareness of the importance of informed consent, there is little empirical evidence on what psychotherapists’ attitudes towards informed consent are and how informed consent is implemented in psychotherapeutic practice.

Methods

155 psychotherapists in Switzerland completed an online survey assessing their attitudes regarding informed consent.

Results

Among the surveyed psychotherapists, there was a high consensus on important information that should be communicated to patients in the context of informed consent. Almost all psychotherapists rated confidentiality and its exemptions (95%) and self-determined decision-making (97%) as important. The importance to disclose information regarding fees and the empirical effectiveness of the provided treatment, were both seen as important by more than 80% of participants. The disclosure of personal information about the therapist was rated as important by 60%. Other aspects, which are not direct components of informed consent but rather overarching goals, were also evaluated rather homogeneously: self-determined decision making of the patient was rated as important by almost all of the surveyed psychotherapists (97%). The following components were also judged as important by a majority of the participants: promotion of hope (80%) and discussion of treatment goals (93%). Most psychotherapists described the implementation of informed consent as an ongoing process, rather than a one-time event during the first session of therapy. Therapists’ age, postgraduate training, treated patient group, and setting influenced attitudes towards informed consent.

Conclusions

The present study shows that informed consent is perceived by psychotherapists as both a challenge and a resource. The implementation of informed consent in psychotherapy requires further research from a clinical and ethical perspective.
Nestin is essential for cellular redox homeostasis and gastric cancer metastasis through the mediation of the Keap1–Nrf2 axis
Authors: Lv Jing , Xie Meiqiang , Zhao Shufen , Qiu Wensheng , Wang Shasha , Cao Manming
Published: November 2021

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is a common malignancy of the digestive system. Antioxidant activity is regarded as a possible mechanism in ectopic cancer. Hence, oxidative stress regulation is being evaluated for cancer treatment. Previous research has demonstrated that Nestin is associated with antioxidative resistance via its modulation of the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)–nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway.

Methods

We determined the role of Nestin-mediated redox homeostasis and tumor phenotypes in GC cells.

Results

We found that the Nestin expression level was high in GC tissues and cell lines. Nestin knockdown in the GC cell lines SGC-7901 and MKN-45 reduced viability, induced apoptosis, decreased antioxidant enzyme generation, and repressed GC metastasis. Nestin binds to Keap1, resulting in Nrf2 degradation and influencing downstream gene expression. Nestin knockdown resulted in the downregulation of Nrf2 expression in GC cells. The restoration of Nrf2 expression or treatment with the Nrf2 activator sulforaphane counteracted the inhibitory effect of Nestin knockdown on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and antioxidant enzyme production in GC cells. Moreover, xenograft GC tumors exhibited a slower growth rate than those of the control group in vivo.

Conclusions

Taken together, these findings suggest that the Nestin–Keap1–Nrf2 axis confers oxidative stress resistance and plays an important role in the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells.
Annual prevalence of unmet healthcare need in Thailand: evidence from national household surveys between 2011 and 2019
Authors: Vongmongkol Vuthiphan , Viriyathorn Shaheda , Wanwong Yaowaluk , Wangbanjongkun Waritta , Tangcharoensathien Viroj
Published: November 2021

Background

Extending Universal Health Coverage (UHC) requires identifying and addressing unmet healthcare need and its causes to improve access to essential health services. Unmet need is a useful monitoring indicator to verify if low incidence of catastrophic health spending is not a result of foregone services due to unmet needs. This study assesses the trend, between 2011 and 2019, of prevalence and reasons of unmet healthcare need and identifies population groups who had unmet needs.

Method

The unmet healthcare need module in the Health and Welfare Survey (HWS) 2011–2019 was used for analysis. HWS is a nationally representative household survey conducted by the National Statistical Office biennially. There are more than 60,000 respondents in each round of survey. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) standard questions on unmet need and reasons behind were applied for outpatient (OP), inpatient (IP) and dental services in the past 12 months. Data from samples were weighted to represent the Thai population. Univariate analysis was applied to assess unmet need across socioeconomic profiles.

Results

The annual prevalence of unmet need between 2011 and 2019 was lower than 3%. The prevalence was 1.3–1.6% for outpatient services, 0.9% - 1.1% for dental services, and lower than 0.2% for inpatient care. A small increasing trend was observed on dental service unmet need, from 0.9% in 2011 to 1.1% in 2019. The poor, the elderly and people living in urban areas had higher unmet needs than their counterparts. Long waiting times was the main reason for unmet need, while cost of treatment was not an issue.

Conclusion

The low level of unmet need at less than 3% was lower than OECD average (28%), and was the result of UHC since 2002. Regular monitoring using the national representative household survey to estimate annual prevalence and reasons for unmet need can guide policy to sustain and improve access by certain population groups.
Polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells impair the anti-tumor efficacy of GD2.CAR T-cells in patients with neuroblastoma
Authors: Tumino Nicola , Weber Gerrit , Besi Francesca , Del Bufalo Francesca , Bertaina Valentina , Paci Paola , Quatrini Linda , Antonucci Laura , Sinibaldi Matilde , Quintarelli Concetta , Maggi Enrico , De Angelis Biagio , Locatelli Franco , Moretta Lorenzo , Vacca Paola , Caruana Ignazio
Published: November 2021

The outcome of patients affected by high-risk or metastatic neuroblastoma (NB) remains grim, with ≥ 50% of the children experiencing relapse or progression of the disease despite multimodal, intensive treatment. In order to identify new strategies to improve the overall survival and the quality of life of these children, we recently developed and optimized a third-generation GD2-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) construct, which is currently under evaluation in our Institution in a phase I/II clinical trial (NCT03373097) enrolling patients with relapsed/refractory NB. We observed that our CAR T-cells are able to induce marked tumor reduction and even achieve complete remission with a higher efficiency than that of other CAR T-cells reported in previous studies. However, often responses are not sustained and relapses occur. Here, we demonstrate for the first time a mechanism of resistance to GD2.CAR T-cell treatment, showing how polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSC) increase in the peripheral blood (PB) of NB patients after GD2.CAR T-cell treatment in case of relapse and loss of response. In vitro, isolated PMN-MDSC demonstrate to inhibit the anti-tumor cytotoxicity of different generations of GD2.CAR T-cells. Gene-expression profiling of GD2.CAR T-cells “conditioned” with PMN-MDSC shows downregulation of genes involved in cell activation, signal transduction, inflammation and cytokine/chemokine secretion. Analysis of NB gene-expression dataset confirms a correlation between expression of these genes and patient outcome. Moreover, in patients treated with GD2.CAR T-cells, the frequency of circulating PMN-MDSC inversely correlates with the levels of GD2.CAR T-cells, resulting more elevated in patients who did not respond or lost response to the treatment. The presence and the frequency of PMN-MDSC in PB of high-risk and metastatic NB represents a useful prognostic marker to predict the response to GD2.CAR T-cells and other adoptive immunotherapy. This study underlines the importance of further optimization of both CAR T-cells and clinical trial in order to target elements of the tumor microenvironment.
An unwanted companion reaches the country: the first record of the alien mosquito Aedes japonicus japonicus (Theobald, 1901) in Slovakia
Authors: Čabanová Viktória , Boršová Kristína , Svitok Marek , Oboňa Jozef , Svitková Ivana , Barbušinová Eva , Derka Tomáš , Sláviková Monika , Klempa Boris
Published: November 2021

Background

Invasive mosquitoes of the genus Aedes are quickly spreading around the world. The presence of these alien species is concerning for both their impact on the native biodiversity and their high vector competence. The surveillance of Aedes invasive mosquito (AIM) species is one of the most important steps in vector-borne disease control and prevention.

Methods

In 2020, the monitoring of AIM species was conducted in five areas (Bratislava, Zvolen, Banská Bystrica, Prešov, Košice) of Slovakia. The sites were located at points of entry (border crossings with Austria and Hungary) and in the urban and rural zones of cities and their surroundings. Ovitraps were used at the majority of sites as a standard method of monitoring. The collected specimens were identified morphologically, with subsequent molecular identification by conventional PCR (cox1) and Sanger sequencing. The phylogenetic relatedness of the obtained sequences was inferred by the maximum likelihood (ML) method. The nucleotide heterogeneity of the Slovak sequences was analysed by the index of disparity.

Results

A bush mosquito, Aedes japonicus japonicus, was found and confirmed by molecular methods in three geographically distant areas of Slovakia—Bratislava, Zvolen and Prešov. The presence of AIM species is also likely in Košice; however, the material was not subjected to molecular identification. The nucleotide sequences of some Slovak strains confirm their significant heterogeneity. They were placed in several clusters on the ML phylogenetic tree. Moreover, Ae. j. japonicus was discovered in regions of Slovakia that are not close to a point of entry, where the mosquitoes could find favourable habitats in dendrothelms in city parks or forests.

Conclusion

Despite being a first record of the Ae. j. japonicus in Slovakia, our study indicates that the established populations already exist across the country, underlining the urgent need for intensified surveillance of AIM species as well as mosquito-borne pathogens.

Graphical Abstract
The prior infection with SARS-CoV-2 study (PICOV) in nursing home residents and staff - study protocol description and presentation of preliminary findings on symptoms.
Authors: Goossens Maria E. , Neven Kristof Y. , Pannus Pieter , Barbezange Cyril , Thomas Isabelle , Gucht Steven Van , Dierick Katelijne , Schmickler Marie-Noëlle , Verbrugghe Mathieu , Loon Nele Van , Ariën Kevin K , Marchant Arnaud , Goriely Stanislas , Desombere Isabelle
Published: November 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has presented itself as one of the most important health concerns of the 2020’s, and hit the geriatric population the hardest. The presence of co-morbidities and immune ageing in the elderly lead to an increased susceptibility to COVID-19, as is the case for other influenza-like illnesses (ILI) or acute respiratory tract infections (ARI). However, little is known, about the impact of a previous or current infection on the other in terms of susceptibility, immune response, and clinical course. The aim of the “Prior Infection with SARS-COV-2” (PICOV) study is to compare the time to occurrence of an ILI or ARI between participants with a confirmed past SARS-CoV-2 infection (previously infected) and those without a confirmed past infection (naïve) in residents and staff members of nursing homes. This paper describes the study design and population characteristics at baseline.

Methods

In 26 Belgian nursing homes, all eligible residents and staff members were invited to participate, resulting in 1,226 participants. They were classified as naïve or previously infected based on the presence of detectable SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and/or a positive RT-qPCR result before participation in the study. Symptoms from a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection between March and August 2020 were compared between previously infected residents and staff members.

Results

Infection naïve nursing home residents reported fewer symptoms than previously infected residents: on average 1.9 and 3.1 symptoms, respectively (p = 0.016). The same effect was observed for infection naïve staff members and previously infected staff members (3.1 and 6.1 symptoms, respectively; p <0.0001). Moreover, the antibody development after a SARS-CoV-2 infection differs between residents and staff members, as previously infected residents tend to have a higher rate of asymptomatic cases compared to previously infected staff members (20.5% compared to 12.4%; p <0.0001).

Conclusions

We can postulate that COVID-19 disease development and symptomatology are different between a geriatric and younger population. Therefore, the occurrence and severity of a future ILI and/or ARI might vary from resident to staff.
Adoption of complementary climate-smart agricultural technologies: lessons from Lushoto in Tanzania
Authors: Ogada Maurice Juma , Radeny Maren , Recha John , Dawit Solomon
Published: November 2021

Background

Agriculture is important for economic growth and development in many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Tanzania. However, agricultural production and productivity remain relatively low, with significant yield gaps attributed to factors such as limited access to and low adoption of appropriate agricultural technologies, and climate-related risks resulting from climate variability and change. This paper explores the drivers of adoption of climate-smart agricultural (CSA) technologies and practices, taking into account the complementarity among agricultural technologies and heterogeneity of the farm households, using data from Lushoto in Tanzania.

Methods

We use a Multivariate Probit analysis of cross-sectional data collected from 264 smallholder farmers in Lushoto—a climate hotspot in Tanzania—to understand the drivers of household decisions to adopt CSA technologies and practices. The technologies included diversification of multiple stress (drought, floods, pests, diseases)-tolerant crop varieties, use of fertilizers, and application of herbicides and pesticides. The Multivariate Probit model was preferred as it takes into account the inter-relationships of the technologies as well as heterogeneity of the smallholder farmers for more robust estimates. The independent variables used in the analysis included household socio-economic factors such as the relative importance of crop and livestock enterprises, household land size, social capital, access to agricultural credit and weather information, previous experience with fertilizer use and household characteristics (age, education and gender of household head, and household size).

Results

About 63% of the households diversified their crop enterprises, shifting to improved resilient crops and crop varieties. Another 37% adopted fertilizers, while 38% applied pesticides and herbicides. Conditional on the unobservable heterogeneity effects, the results show that household adoption decisions on diversification of multiple stress-tolerant crops and crop varieties, fertilizer, and pesticides and herbicides are complementary. In addition, the results confirm existence of unobserved heterogeneity effects leading to varying impact of the explanatory variables on adoption decisions among farmers with similar observable characteristics.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that any effective CSA technology adoption and diffusion strategies and policies should take into account the complementarity of the technologies and heterogeneity of the smallholder farmers. Therefore, inter-related technologies should be promoted as a package or bundled while taking into consideration household and farm-level constraints to adoption.
Assessing the microbiota of recycled bedding sand on a Wisconsin dairy farm
Authors: Pilch Hannah E. , Steinberger Andrew J. , Sockett Donald C. , Aulik Nicole , Suen Garret , Czuprynski Charles J.
Published: November 2021

Background

Sand is often considered the preferred bedding material for dairy cows as it is thought to have lower bacterial counts than organic bedding materials and cows bedded on sand experience fewer cases of lameness and disease. Sand can also be efficiently recycled and reused, making it cost-effective. However, some studies have suggested that the residual organic material present in recycled sand can serve as a reservoir for commensal and pathogenic bacteria, although no studies have yet characterized the total bacterial community composition. Here we sought to characterize the bacterial community composition of a Wisconsin dairy farm bedding sand recycling system and its dynamics across several stages of the recycling process during both summer and winter using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing.

Results

Bacterial community compositions of the sand recycling system differed by both seasons and stage. Summer samples had higher richness and distinct community compositions, relative to winter samples. In both summer and winter samples, the diversity of recycled sand decreased with time drying in the recycling room. Compositionally, summer sand 14 d post-recycling was enriched in operational taxonomic units (OTUs) belonging to the genera Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas, relative to freshly washed sand and sand from cow pens. In contrast, no OTUs were found to be enriched in winter sand. The sand recycling system contained an overall core microbiota of 141 OTUs representing 68.45% ± 10.33% SD of the total bacterial relative abundance at each sampled stage. The 4 most abundant genera in this core microbiota included Acinetobacter, Psychrobacter, Corynebacterium, and Pseudomonas. Acinetobacter was present in greater abundance in summer samples, whereas Psychrobacter and Corynebacterium had higher relative abundances in winter samples. Pseudomonas had consistent relative abundances across both seasons.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the potential of recycled bedding sand as a bacterial reservoir that warrants further study.
A review of the resistome within the digestive tract of livestock
Authors: Ma Tao , McAllister Tim A. , Guan Le Luo
Published: November 2021

Antimicrobials have been widely used to prevent and treat infectious diseases and promote growth in food-production animals. However, the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance poses a huge threat to public and animal health, especially in less developed countries where food-producing animals often intermingle with humans. To limit the spread of antimicrobial resistance from food-production animals to humans and the environment, it is essential to have a comprehensive knowledge of the role of the resistome in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), The resistome refers to the collection of all antimicrobial resistance genes associated with microbiota in a given environment. The dense microbiota in the digestive tract is known to harbour one of the most diverse resistomes in nature. Studies of the resistome in the digestive tract of humans and animals are increasing exponentially as a result of advancements in next-generation sequencing and the expansion of bioinformatic resources/tools to identify and describe the resistome. In this review, we outline the various tools/bioinformatic pipelines currently available to characterize and understand the nature of the intestinal resistome of swine, poultry, and ruminants. We then propose future research directions including analysis of resistome using long-read sequencing, investigation in the role of mobile genetic elements in the expression, function and transmission of AMR. This review outlines the current knowledge and approaches to studying the resistome in food-producing animals and sheds light on future strategies to reduce antimicrobial usage and control the spread of AMR both within and from livestock production systems.
Psychometric properties of the persian version of the inventory of statements about self-injury (ISAS)
Authors: Rezaei Omid , Athar Mojtaba Elhami , Ebrahimi Ali , Jazi Elham Azamian , Karimi Sirwan , Ataie Shima , Taheri Ehsan , Abbassian Mahboubeh , Storch Eric A
Published: November 2021

Background

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a serious public health problem prevalent among adolescents and young adults. The present study examines the factor structure, internal consistency, and validity of the Persian version of the Inventory of Statements About Self-injury (ISAS), a self-report measure designed to comprehensively assess non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI).

Methods

A total of 655 Iranian school-attending adolescents completed study measures online, and 246 youth (37.70 %) (M age = 15.38, SD ± 0.50; 53 % female) reported a history of NSSI at least once during their lifetime.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis supported the proposed two-factor model of ISAS (i.e., Interpersonal and Intrapersonal dimensions), which were internally consistent and yielded direct associations with converging correlates (e.g., depression, anxiety, irritability, and anger).

Conclusions

Findings indicated that the Persian version of the ISAS has sound psychometric properties and is a valid and reliable self-report measure of NSSI.
Characterization of variable-sensitivity force sensor using stiffness change of shape-memory polymer based on temperature
Authors: Takashima Kazuto , Kobuchi Jo , Kamamichi Norihiro , Takagi Kentaro , Mukai Toshiharu
Published: November 2021

In the present study, we propose a variable-sensitivity force sensor using a shape-memory polymer (SMP), the stiffness of which varies according to the temperature. Since the measurement range and sensitivity can be changed, it is not necessary to replace the force sensor to match the measurement target. Shape-memory polymers are often described as two-phase structures comprising a lower-temperature “glassy” hard phase and a higher-temperature “rubbery” soft phase. The relationship between the applied force and the deformation of the SMP changes depending on the temperature. The proposed sensor consists of strain gauges bonded to an SMP bending beam and senses the applied force by measuring the strain. Therefore, the force measurement range and the sensitivity can be changed according to the temperature. In our previous study, we found that a sensor with one strain gauge and a steel plate had a small error and a large sensitivity range. Therefore, in the present study, we miniaturize this type of sensor. Moreover, in order to describe the viscoelastic behavior more accurately, we propose a transfer function using a generalized Maxwell model. We verify the proposed model experimentally and estimated the parameters by system identification. In addition, we realize miniaturization of the sensor and achieve the same performance as in our previous study. It is shown that the proposed transfer function can capture the viscoelastic behavior of the proposed SMP sensor quite well.
The humanitarian alibi: an overview and a redefinition
Authors: Bywater Matthew
Published: November 2021

This paper explores and illustrates the diverse manifestations of the phenomenon of the ‘humanitarian alibi’, drawing upon historical and contemporary cases of violent conflict in order to identify substitutionary phenomena by governments and international actors. It affirms the existence of substitution process where humanitarian aid intervention substitutes for the prevention and resolution of violent conflict and the protection of civilian populations. The paper argues for expanding the humanitarian alibi, however, to take into account how international aid intervention compensates for both the systemic neglect of conflict related crises and for the systemic harm that exacerbates and perpetuates these crises. It also challenges the suggestion that the humanitarian alibi phenomenon is the product of a bygone era, and finds that the use of aid as a substitute for peacemaking can co-exist alongside the use of aid as a direct component of international intervention.
Re-mineralization potential, shear bond strength and hydration characteristics of experimentally prepared tri-calcium aluminate phase-modified glass ionomer cement on sound and caries-affected dentin (An in vitro/in vivo study)
Authors: Radwan M. M. , EL-Hamid H. K. Abd , Nagi Shaymaa M.
Published: November 2021

Background

This study aimed to in vivo and in vitro evaluate the remineralization potential and shear bond strength (SBS) of experimentally prepared tri-calcium aluminate (C3A)-modified glass ionomer cements on sound and artificial caries-affected dentin (CAD). A pure tricalcium aluminate (C3A) phase prepared via solid state reaction at elevated temperature from chemically pure calcium carbonate and alumina, to formulate ceramic composite of composition: 75% C3A, 15% CaSO4·2H2O and 10% Bi2O3. The influence of artificial saliva solution on the hydration characteristics and microstructure of the synthesized composite was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, FTIR spectral analysis, pH determination and scanning electron microscope (SEM) in comparison with distilled water curing medium. Modified cements of C3A glass ionomers (C3A-CGIC) were prepared by addition of the experimentally prepared C3A to the powder component of the conventical glass ionomer cement (CGIC). Five and 10 wt% of C3A- CGICs powder were prepared and compared to CGIC. Cements were applied in prepared class V cavities in rabbits’ teeth either to sound or artificial CAD. All rabbits were killed after 15 days, and then, Ca and P wt% were evaluated at the cement–dentin interface using Energy-Dispersive X-ray Analysis. Specimens for SBS evaluation were prepared for the tested cements bonded either to sound or artificial CAD, then tested using universal testing machine.

Results

The XRD results indicate that there is an acceleration effect on the hydration reactions and decrease in the rate of conversion process of C3A phase composite due to the presence of free ions in saliva solution which was emphasized by the results of the IR spectral bands of the hydrated paste samples. The SEM micrographs showed a more-dense microstructure with large accumulations of aluminate hydrate crystals of samples cured under saliva solution. Results of the prepared C3A-CGICs showed that 10wt% C3A-GIC group had the highest statistically significant mean Ca, P wt% and SBS values on CAD compared to 5wt% C3A-GIC and CGIC.

Conclusions

10 wt% C3A-GIC has a remineralizing effect on artificial CAD under in vivo conditions, plus its improved bonding to dentin compared to CGIC. Thus, it might be promising restorative/base with advanced remineralization potential and adequate bond strength to both sound dentin and CAD.
Therapeutic dilemma and clinical issues in management of the button battery ingestion: a case report and literature review
Authors: Agolli Olsi , Agolli Arjola , Hange Namrata , Agadi Kuchalambal
Published: November 2021

The incidence of button battery ingestion in children less than 6 years, from year 1985 to 2019 was 59,000 and it is still a clinical challenge for pediatricians. Objects which are commonly ingested are large amounts of food, coins, toy parts, jewels, batteries, sharp materials and non-metallic sharp objects. It is an increased incidence of mortality and morbidity due to button battery ingestion, compared to accidental ingestion of other objects, due to its small size, and because of its potent source of energy. A literature search was carried out to evaluate the challenges in diagnosing, treatment, and follow-up of button battery ingested cases in children. A total of 36 original articles were included for the review.

Conclusions: Button batteries can quickly cause severe damage to the mucosal lining of the GI tract. Esophageal button batteries require emergency removal because they can cause serious complications leading to hemorrhage, and death. In children, where the button battery has passed the esophagus watchful management should be made. In the majority of cases, the button batteries with a diameter less than 2 cm lodged in the stomach will pass spontaneously with no complications. However, asymptomatic children may be followed up with X-rays to assess progression up to 10–14 days after ingestion. Endoscopic or surgical removal may be required to prevent intestinal perforation with peritonitis. Symptomatic children will always need a consultation with a pediatric surgeon for surgery no matter where the button battery is placed in the GI tract. Developing countries shall adopt surveillance and reporting systems for BBI ingestion and related complications and it is recommended as essential to have management protocols in place for button batteries ingestion.
Effects of crude oil prices on copper and maize prices
Authors: Kaulu Byrne
Published: November 2021

This study explains the effects of crude oil prices on copper and maize prices. Vector autoregressive and vector error correction models are used to study the relationship between oil prices and prices of copper and maize. The commodity price data used consist of average monthly prices of each of the commodities: crude oil, copper and maize for the months January 1982 to June 2021. For robustness, the analysis was also run on a sample of the same data for the period January 2000 to June 2021. A long-run relationship was found between crude oil and copper prices on the one hand and maize prices on the other for the 1982 to 2021 period at the 5% significance level. The same was not true for the shorter sample (2000 to 2021). Granger causality flowing from crude oil prices alone to copper and maize prices was not found. Recommendations that are useful for energy, mining, agriculture and general development policy and practice are made. The findings are also useful for bilateral and multilateral aid discussions. The limitations of the study and recommendations for future scholarship are also made.
Ejection of marine microplastics by raindrops: a computational and experimental study
Authors: Lehmann Moritz , Oehlschlägel Lisa Marie , Häusl Fabian P. , Held Andreas , Gekle Stephan
Published: November 2021

Raindrops impacting water surfaces such as lakes or oceans produce myriads of tiny droplets which are ejected into the atmosphere at very high speeds. Here we combine computer simulations and experimental measurements to investigate whether these droplets can serve as transport vehicles for the transition of microplastic particles with diameters of a few tens of μm from ocean water to the atmosphere. Using the Volume-of-Fluid lattice Boltzmann method, extended by the immersed-boundary method, we performed more than 1600 raindrop impact simulations and provide a detailed statistical analysis on the ejected droplets. Using typical sizes and velocities of real-world raindrops – parameter ranges that are very challenging for 3D simulations – we simulate straight impacts with various raindrop diameters as well as oblique impacts. We find that a 4mm diameter raindrop impact on average ejects more than 167 droplets. We show that these droplets indeed contain microplastic concentrations similar to the ocean water within a few millimeters below the surface. To further assess the plausibility of our simulation results, we conduct a series of laboratory experiments, where we find that microplastic particles are indeed contained in the spray. Based on our results and known data – assuming an average microplastic particle concentration of 2.9 particles per liter at the ocean surface – we estimate that, during rainfall, about 4800 microplastic particles transition into the atmosphere per square kilometer per hour for a typical rain rate of $10 \frac {\text {mm}}{\mathrm {h}}$
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and vertical updraft velocity of $0.5 \frac {\mathrm {m}}{\mathrm {s}}$
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m

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.
Arrival-time picking of microseismic events based on MSNet
Authors: Sheng Guanqun , Yang Shuangyu , Tang Xin-Gong , Guo Xiaolong
Published: November 2021

Arrival-time picking of microseismic events is a critical procedure in microseismic data processing. However, because field monitoring data contain many microseismic events with low signal-to-noise ratios (S/Ns), traditional arrival-time picking methods based on the instantaneous characteristics of seismic signals cannot meet the picking accuracy and efficiency requirements of microseismic monitoring owing to the large volume of monitoring data. Conversely, methods based on deep neural networks can significantly improve arrival-time picking accuracy and efficiency in low-S/N environments. Therefore, we have adopted a deep convolutional network that combines the U-Net and DenseNet approaches to pick arrival times automatically. This novel network called MSNet not only retains the spatial information of any input signal or profile based on the U-Net, but also extracts and integrates more essential features of events and nonevents through dense blocks, thereby further improving the picking accuracy and efficiency. An effective workflow is developed to verify the superiority of our method. First, we describe the structure of MSNet and the workflow of our picking method. Then, data sets are constructed using variable microseismic traces from field microseismic monitoring records and from the finite-difference forward modeling of microseismic data to train the network. Subsequently, hyperparameter tuning is conducted to optimize the MSNet. Finally, we test the MSNet using modeled signals with different S/Ns and field microseismic data from different monitoring areas. By comparing the picking results of our method with the results of U-Net and short-term average and long-term average methods, the effectiveness of our method is verified. The arrival-picking results of synthetic data and microseismic field data indicate that our network has increased adaptability and can achieve high accuracy for picking the arrival time of microseismic events.
The Collective Scene
Authors: Estella Iñaki
Published: November 2021

This article offers an analysis, though necessarily fragmented and incomplete, of travesti cabaret during the 1960s and 1970s in fascist Spain. It explores in particular the cabaret shows of travestis in Barcelona, as well as the admiration and recognition that they produced. The study focuses on the political capacities that privacy and closed spaces generated in an environment of dictatorship, albeit through a certain presence of the public as audience. From this analysis follows a problematization of the conception of the public as the ideal location for politics, particularly the street, as well as their possibilities for resistance. This essay seeks a reassessment of intimate spaces for sharing experiences that ultimately affect and condition the necessity of public representation.