bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E484K mutation in SARS-CoV-2 RBD enhances binding affinity with hACE2 but reduces interactions with neutralizing antibodies and nanobodies: Binding free energy calculation studies
Authors: Wang Wei Bu , Liang Yu , Jin Yu Qin , Zhang Jing , Su Ji Guo , Li Qi Ming
Published: February 2021

The pandemic of the COVID-19 disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 has led to more than 100 million infections and over 2 million deaths worldwide. The progress in the developments of effective vaccines and neutralizing antibody therapeutics brings hopes to eliminate the threat of COVID-19. However, SARS-CoV-2 continues to mutate, and several new variants have been emerged. Among the various naturally-occurring mutations, the E484K mutation shared by both the 501Y.V2 and 501Y.V3 variants attracted serious concerns, which may potentially enhance the receptor binding affinity and reduce the immune response. In the present study, the molecular mechanism behind the impacts of E484K mutation on the binding affinity of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) with the receptor human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) was investigated by using the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations combined with the molecular mechanics-generalized Born surface area (MMGBSA) method. Our results indicate that the E484K mutation results in more favorable electrostatic interactions compensating the burial of the charged and polar groups upon the binding of RBD with hACE2, which significantly improves the RBD-hACE2 binding affinity. Besides that, the E484K mutation also causes the conformational rearrangements of the loop region containing the mutant residue, which leads to more tight binding interface of RBD with hACE2 and formation of some new hydrogen bonds. The more tight binding interface and the new hydrogen bonds formation also contribute to the improved binding affinity of RBD to the receptor hACE2. In addition, six neutralizing antibodies and nanobodies complexed with RBD were selected to explore the effects of E484K mutation on the recognition of these antibodies to RBD. The simulation results show that the E484K mutation significantly reduces the binding affinities to RBD for most of the studied neutralizing antibodies, and the decrease in the binding affinities is mainly owing to the unfavorable electrostatic interactions caused by the mutation. Our studies revealed that the E484K mutation may improve the binding affinity between RBD and the receptor hACE2, implying more transmissibility of the E484K-containing variants, and weaken the binding affinities between RBD and the studied neutralizing antibodies, indicating reduced effectiveness of these antibodies. Our results provide valuable information for the effective vaccine development and antibody drugs design.
A measles-vectored COVID-19 vaccine induces long-term immunity and protection from SARS-CoV-2 challenge in mice
Authors: Frantz Phanramphoei N. , Barinov Aleksandr , Ruffié Claude , Combredet Chantal , Najburg Valérie , Teeravechyan Samaporn , Jongkaewwattana Anan , Prot Matthieu , Conquet Laurine , Montagutelli Xavier , Fernandes Priyanka , Strick-Marchand Hélène , Di Santo James , Simon-Lorière Etienne , Gerke Christiane , Tangy Frédéric
Published: February 2021

In light of the expanding SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, developing efficient vaccines that can provide sufficient coverage for the world population is a global health priority. The measles virus (MV)-vectored vaccine is an attractive candidate given the measles vaccine’s extensive safety history, well-established manufacturing process, and induction of strong, long-lasting immunity. We developed an MV-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine using either the full-length spike (S) or S2 subunit as the antigen. While the S2 antigen failed to induce neutralizing antibodies, the prefusion-stabilized, full-length S (MV-ATU2-SF-2P-dER) construct proved to be an attractive vaccine candidate, eliciting strong Th1-dominant T-cell and neutralizing antibody responses against the S antigen while minimizing reactivity to the vector itself. Neutralizing antibody titers remained high three months after homologous prime-boost immunization, and infectious virus was undetectable in all animals after challenge with a mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Structural insights into the substrate-binding cleft of AlyF reveal the first long-chain alginate-binding mode
Authors: Zhang Keke , Liu Tao , Liu Weizhi , Lyu Qianqian
Published: February 2021

The products of alginate degradation, alginate oligosaccharides (AOS), have potential applications in many areas, including functional foods and marine drugs. Enzyme-based approaches using alginate lyases have advantages in the preparation of well defined AOS and have attracted much attention in recent years. However, a lack of structural insight into the whole substrate-binding cleft for most known alginate lyases severely hampers their application in the industrial generation of well defined AOS. To solve this issue, AlyF was co-crystallized with the long alginate oligosaccharide G6 (L-hexaguluronic acid hexasodium salt), which is the longest bound substrate in all solved alginate lyase complex structures. AlyF formed interactions with G6 from subsites −3 to +3 without additional substrate-binding site interactions, suggesting that the substrate-binding cleft of AlyF was fully occupied by six sugars, which was further confirmed by isothermal titration calorimetry and differential scanning calorimetry analyses. More importantly, a combination of structural comparisons and mutagenetic analyses determined that three key loops (loop 1, Lys215–Glu236; loop 2, Gln402–Ile416; loop 3, Arg334–Gly348) mainly function in binding long substrates (degree of polymerization of >4). The potential flexibility of loop 1 and loop 2 might enable the substrate to continue to enter the cleft after binding to subsites +1 to +3; loop 3 stabilizes and orients the substrate at subsites −2 and −3. Taken together, these results provide the first possible alginate lyase–substrate binding profile for long-chain alginates, facilitating the rational design of new enzymes for industrial purposes.
Structure and comparison of the motor domain of centromere-associated protein E
Authors: Shibuya Asuka , Ogo Naohisa , Sawada Jun-ichi , Asai Akira , Yokoyama Hideshi
Published: February 2021

Centromere-associated protein E (CENP-E) plays an essential role in mitosis and is a target candidate for anticancer drugs. However, it is difficult to design small-molecule inhibitors of CENP-E kinesin motor ATPase activity owing to a lack of structural information on the CENP-E motor domain in complex with its inhibitors. Here, the CENP-E motor domain was crystallized in the presence of an ATP-competitive inhibitor and the crystal structure was determined at 1.9 Å resolution. In the determined structure, ADP was observed instead of the inhibitor in the nucleotide-binding site, even though no ADP was added during protein preparation. Structural comparison with the structures of previously reported CENP-E and those of other kinesins indicates that the determined structure is nearly identical except for several loop regions. However, the retention of ADP in the nucleotide-binding site of the structure strengthens the biochemical view that the release of ADP is a rate-limiting step in the ATPase cycle of CENP-E. These results will contribute to the development of anticancer drugs targeting CENP-E and to understanding the function of kinesin motor domains.
Dynamic conceptual framework to investigate adoption of healthy diet through agent-based modelling
Authors: Rahmani Jamal , Mirzay Razaz Jalaledin , Kalantari Naser , Garcia Leandro M.T. , Shariatpanahi Seyed Peyman , Bawadi Hiba , Thompson Jacqueline Y. , Ryan Paul M. , Santos Heitor O. , Haghighian Roudsari Arezoo
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop a dynamic conceptual framework depicting factors related to the adoption of a healthy diet, which will underpin the development of an agent-based model (ABM) to uncover the dynamic interplay between these factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual framework was developed in three steps using available empirical data from a semi-structured in-depth interview qualitative study, comprehensive systematic literature searches, existing theories and models and expert opinions from across the world.

Findings

The conceptual framework explicitly presents intention as the key determinant of the tendency to adopt a healthy diet. Intention is determined by demographic, psychological and behavioural factors and individual dietary mindset factors and dynamically affected by social environment and the person's past behaviour. The relationship between intention and behaviour is dynamically moderated by perceived control factors (price and accessibility of healthy food and time).

Originality/value

The conceptual framework developed in this study is well supported by evidence and experts' opinions. This conceptual framework will be used to design the ABM of this study, and it can be used in future investigations on the tendency to adopt healthy diet and food choices.
Housing market networks in China's major cities: a conditional causality approach
Authors: Yang Lu , Yuan Nannan , Hu Shichao
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To explore the state of this conditional Granger causality when other cities are not factors, we investigate housing market networks in China's major cities by using a combination of conditional Granger causality and network analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

Although housing market networks have been well discussed for different countries, the question of housing market networks in China's major cities based on the conditional causality perspective has yet to be answered.

Findings

We discover that second-tier cities are more influential than first-tier cities. Although the connectivity of the primary housing market is more complex than the diversified connectivity observed in the secondary housing market, both markets are scale-free networks that exhibit high stability. Moreover, we reveal that geographic conditions and economic development jointly determine the housing market's modular hierarchical structure. Our results provide meaningful information for both Chinese policymakers and investors.

Originality/value

By excluding the influence of other cities, our conditional Granger causality identifies the true casual relation between cities' housing markets. Moreover, it is the first paper to consider the primary housing market and secondary housing market separately. Specifically, Chinese prefer new house rather than second-hand house from both speculative and self-housing. Generally speaking, the new house price is lower than the second-hand house price since the new house is off-plan property. Therefore, understanding the difference between primary and secondary housing markets will provide useful information for both policymakers and speculators.
Factors predicting six-month exclusive breastfeeding among mothers in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Nhan Thi , Prasopkittikun Tassanee , Payakkaraung Sudaporn , Vongsirimas Nopporn
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates continue to be low in Vietnam. This study aimed to determine the factors predicting 6-month EBF among mothers in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 259 mothers of infants aged between six to nine months at well-baby clinics in Ho Chi Minh City. The questionnaires used for data collection included personal background questionnaire, perceived benefits of breastfeeding scale, breastfeeding self-efficacy scale-short form, perceived barriers to breastfeeding scale and the family support of breastfeeding scale. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multiple logistic regression were used for data analysis.

Findings

About 32% of the Vietnamese mothers practiced 6-month EBF. By increasing one unit of perceived benefits of breastfeeding, perceived self-efficacy in breastfeeding and family support, the mothers' likelihood to give 6-month EBF would increase 19% (AOR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.08, 1.31), 12% (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.19) and 10% (AOR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.16), while previous breastfeeding experience, maternal age and maternal education could not significantly contribute to the 6-month EBF.

Originality/value

This is the first study in Vietnam using a nursing model, the health promotion model, as a framework to identify factors predicting 6-month EBF. An effective program for promoting EBF could be developed by manipulating and tailoring the predicting factors to fit the Vietnamese mothers' needs through a mother class, lactation clinic or individual approach.
Evidence to Support the Clinical Utility of Prenatal Exome Sequencing in Evaluation of the Fetus with Congenital Anomalies
Authors: Mone F , McMullan DJ , Williams D , Chitty LS , Maher ER , Kilby MD ,   Fetal Genomics Steering Group of the British Society for Genetic Medicine,   the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Published: February 2021

Plain language summary

Structural differences (congenital anomalies) in the makeup of the baby's heart, brain and other organs are found on antenatal ultrasound scans in up to 3% of pregnancies. These often have a genetic cause, arising because of changes in the chromosomes (which store our genetic material) or the DNA code that make up the genes. The more differences a baby has the more likely the risk of underlying genetic disease. If a structural difference is found, parents are usually offered a genetic test, which may be carried out on cells taken either from the placenta (chorionic villous sampling) or the fluid surrounding the baby (amniocentesis). At the moment, these cells are only tested for changes in the chromosomes and are only able to reveal the underlying cause in about 40% of unborn babies.

Prenatal exome sequencing (ES) is a new genetic test, which, when combined with testing the DNA of both parents can find changes in the baby's genetic code. If a DNA change is found that can explain the structural changes seen on ultrasound, specific information about the underlying diagnosis can be given to the parents. Having this information can help parents make important decisions about their ongoing pregnancy, as well as help doctors to care for the mother and baby. Finding a genetic change can also help to understand how the condition has arisen and whether it might happen again in another pregnancy. It may also be possible to test for the genetic condition in future pregnancies.

Although prenatal ES is an exciting new way to improve diagnosis rates for structural differences, it has some challenges. While the test is very detailed, it may not always find a genetic explanation and sometimes the results are difficult to interpret. For example, genetic changes can be found where their significance for the pregnancy is unclear.

More recently, two studies have now shown that prenatal ES can find a genetic diagnosis in at least 10% of pregnancies with structural differences where standard chromosome testing has been negative. This paper reviews these studies, along with earlier evidence on ES and provides clinicians with guidance for future practice.
Investigation of breast meat traits of broilers fed different amounts of Hermetia illucens and Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis powder
Authors: Choi Sung‐Up , Choi In‐Hag , Chung Tae‐Ho
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different levels of Hermetia illucens (HI) and Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (PBS) powder on breast meat of broilers during storage. A total of 400 1‐d‐old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly divided into four treatments; each treatment group included four replicate pens with 25 birds per pen. Broilers were fed basal diets supplemented with 0.5%, and 1% HI powder or 1.5% PBS powder or only basal diets without HI or PBS. Traits such as meat quality, color, and antioxidant effects were evaluated. The different levels of HI and PBS powder did not enhance meat quality and color during storage. On day 0, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) values were not significantly affected by different levels of HI and PBS (p > 0.05). However, a significant decrease in TBARS values on day 7 was observed with 0.5% HI and 1.5% PBS treatment compared to values obtained with other treatments (p < 0.05). The reduction in TBARS values with 0.5%, and 1% HI or 1.5% PBS treatments on day 7 was 75.4%, 63.1% and 76.9%, respectively. Between the different levels of HI and PBS treatment, no significant differences in 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging were observed after 7 days of storage. However, addition of HI and PBS powder to broiler diets had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on DPPH radical scavenging in broiler breast meat on day 0. These results indicate that addition of 0.5% HI and 1.5% PBS to broiler diets improves the antioxidant activity of broiler breast meat during storage.
Subsegmental resection preserves regional pulmonary function: A focus on thoracoscopy
Authors: Kuroda Hiroaki , Sakata Shozo , Takahashi Yusuke , Nakada Takeo , Oya Yuko , Sugita Yusuke , Sakakura Noriaki , Matushita Hiroakazu , Sakao Yukinori
Published: February 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate regional postoperative preserved pulmonary function (PPPF) and three‐dimensional (3D) volumetric changes according to the number of resected subsegments and investigate the factors that most affected pre‐/post PPPF.

Methods

Patients who underwent thoracoscopic lobectomy (n = 73), and segmentectomy (n = 87) were eligible for inclusion in the study. They were classified according to the number of resected subsegments which ranged from 1 to 10. The percentage of pre‐/postoperative forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) was used for comparison. Furthermore, lung volumetric changes were calculated using 3D computed tomography (CT) volumetry.

Results

The percentage of pre‐/postoperative EFV1 between 4 and 5–7 and between 5–7 and 10 were significant (p = 0.03 and p < 0.01, respectively), but not between 1–2 to 4 (p = 0.99). The difference between volumetric changes in the left lower lobe of patients with a number of resected subsegments was significant (p < 0.01). On univariate and multivariate analyses, chronic inflammation was significant for decrease in recovery percentages. When the PPPF was compared among resected subsegments, it gradually decreased with an increase in the number of patients without a postoperative procrastination of inflammation (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Segmentectomy is feasible and useful for PPPF. Even a relatively large‐volume resection procedure where 5–7 subsegments are resected can preserve pulmonary function. Chronic inflammation was statistically identified as a risk factor for postoperative preserved pulmonary function.

Key points
Outcomes following major resection for colorectal cancer in patients aged 65+ years: a population‐based study in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Youl Philippa H. , Theile David E. , Moore Julie , Harrington John , Philpot Shoni
Published: February 2021

Background

The risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) increases with increasing age. As surgery is the primary treatment for CRC, our aim was to examine outcomes following major resection for CRC in a cohort of individuals aged ≥65 years.

Methods

This population‐based retrospective study included 18 339 patients aged ≥65 years diagnosed with CRC from 2007 to 2016. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with the likelihood of having major resection, 30‐day mortality and laparoscopic surgical procedure. Cox proportional hazards was used to examine factors associated with risk of death at 2 years post‐surgery.

Results

Overall, 77.8% (n = 14 274) of patients had a major resection. Males and patients ≥75 years were significantly less likely to have a major resection (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). Thirty‐day mortality was 3.1% and 2‐year overall survival was 78.7%. After adjustment, factors such as increasing age (≥75 years), ≥2 comorbidities, emergency admission, open surgical procedure and treatment in a public hospital were all independently and significantly associated with poorer outcomes. The likelihood a patient had a laparoscopic procedure was significantly lower for those from a disadvantaged area (P < 0.001), emergency admission (P < 0.001) as well as for those treated in a public versus private hospital (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Post‐operative mortality increased, and 2‐year survival decreased after age 75 years. The finding of significantly lower rates of laparoscopic surgery for patients from disadvantaged areas and those treated in a public hospital requires further investigation.
Decline in alcohol consumption in Russia: Collectivity or polarisation?
Authors: Radaev Vadim , Roshchina Yana
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Sales and survey data have shown a decline in alcohol consumption in Russia since 2007. This study examines whether this decline is consistent across lighter and heavier drinkers in line with the theory of the collectivity of drinking cultures.

Methods

Data were collected through annual nationally representative surveys conducted between 2006 and 2018 of 33 109 individuals aged 18–85 years. We estimated generalised linear regression with Gamma distribution and used log alcohol volume consumed during the previous 30 days as the dependent variable for five percentile groups: heavy drinkers (95th), near heavy drinkers (90th), moderate drinkers (80th), light drinkers (60th for men and 70th for women) and non‐drinkers. Dummy variables for years, percentile groups and their interactions were used as independent variables. The controls were age, education, income, body weight, marital status, household demographic structure, residence, ethnicity and regional climate.

Results

Reductions in alcohol consumption were observed in all percentiles, but the scale of change was proportionally smaller among heavier drinkers than among lighter drinkers. However, consumption fell by a smaller amount among lighter drinkers than among heavier drinkers. Results of the regression analysis fit with the descriptive statistics. Interactions between the time period and the percentile groups were significant after 2010. Trends were similar for both sexes.

Discussion and Conclusions

Downward trends across percentiles were in the same direction but the magnitude of change varied. Obtained evidence fails to support a polarisation and points towards soft collectivity hypothesis in the reduction in drinking in Russia.
Influence of keratolytics on cutaneous pharmacokinetics of glucocorticoids
Authors: Wohlrab Johannes
Published: February 2021

Background:

Keratolytics are often used to accelerate and improve the therapeutic response of hyperkeratotic dermatoses. Keratolytics are a chemically inhomogeneous group of substances and substance mixtures that clinically lead to a decrease in symptoms of a cornification disorder, but mediate different effects. Thus, keratolytic, keratoplastic, keratoemulsifying and keratodiluting effects are distinguished. The physicochemical effects or pharmacological efficacy of the respective keratolytics result in different mechanism as well as risks with regard to local or systemic compatibility. Until now, only little attention has been paid upon selection of keratolytics to the immediate consequences regarding diffusion conditions and pharmacokinetics of sequentially applied topicals, in particular of glucocorticoids.

Patients and Methods:

This paper deals with the influence of keratolytics on the penetration‐time profile of betamethasone dipropionate in sequential application. For this purpose, cutaneous bioavailability was investigated with the Franz chamber test using a tritium‐labeled drug depending on the previous application of a keratolytic agent. Comparative data analyses were performed.

Results:

It was shown that keratoplastic substances significantly promote diffusion of the glucocorticoid. Keratoemulsifying substance mixtures exert no relevant effects in this regard, while keratodiluting substance mixtures inhibit penetration.

Conclusions:

The targeted selection of a keratolytic can optimize the therapeutic effect and influence the bioavailability of sequentially applied topicals.
Prenatal diagnosis of complete vascular ring using high‐definition flow render mode and spatiotemporal image correlation
Authors: Li Tian‐gang , Li Quan‐lin , Ma Bin , Qi Ping‐an , Wang Jian , Yang Lan
Published: February 2021

Vascular rings (VRs) are defined as congenital abnormalities of the aortic arch and its branches. VR can form a ring that may compress the esophagus and trachea, which likely result in feeding difficulties and respiratory distress. Physicians performing fetal echocardiography are knowledgeable about VRS and can provide this information to pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons. However, VRs are rare and can be missed. The three vessels and trachea (3VT) view used to diagnose VRs has been reported in the literature multiple times but in a small series. We diagnosed three cases of VRs using high‐definition (HD) flow render mode and spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC). The composition of the VRs and vessel connections were shown more intuitively. This article reports our experience of the following related cases. In addition, postnatal imaging features of VRs were also evaluated.
How to make do with events
Authors: Hinshelwood Alec
Published: February 2021

Some claim that when an agent does something, their action should be treated as a particular event. However, a challenge to this has it that if we understand agency through the categoryparticular event, then we must also deploy another,process, because we act in the present but particular events can only exist in the past. In this paper, I show how this argument can be resisted, but suggest that consideration of it should nevertheless lead one to adopt a conception of events which reflects the idea that intentional action involves self‐known change. We thus get into focus how understanding agency in terms of events involves attending to the interaction between the nature of events, the metaphysics of tense, and our epistemological situation as agents.
Husserl on rationality
Authors: Wiltsche Harald A.
Published: February 2021

Edmund Husserl devoted considerable effort to the development of a phenomenological theory of rationality, as, for instance, part four of Ideas 1 attests. After providing some necessary background, I will spell out the details of Husserl's account. Yet, as I will also argue, Husserl's official doctrine is untenable due to several ambiguities and internal tensions. Hence, my primary aim in this paper is to offer a modified phenomenological theory of rationality that avoids the problems of Husserl's original account.
Seizure‐related deaths in children: The expanding spectrum
Authors: Harowitz Jenna , Crandall Laura , McGuone Declan , Devinsky Orrin
Published: February 2021

Although seizures are common in children, they are often overlooked as a potential cause of death. Febrile and nonfebrile seizures can be fatal in children with or without an epilepsy diagnosis and may go unrecognized by parents or physicians. Sudden unexpected infant deaths, sudden unexplained death in childhood, and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy share clinical, neuropathological, and genetic features, including male predominance, unwitnessed deaths, death during sleep, discovery in the prone position, hippocampal abnormalities, and variants in genes regulating cardiac and neuronal excitability. Additionally, epidemiological studies reveal that miscarriages are more common among individuals with a personal or family history of epilepsy, suggesting that some fetal losses may result from epileptic factors. The spectrum of seizure‐related deaths in pediatrics is wide and underappreciated; accurately estimating this mortality and understanding its mechanism in children is critical to developing effective education and interventions to prevent these tragedies.
Relation between coffee consumption and risk of seizure‐related respiratory dysfunction in patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy
Authors: Bourgeois‐Vionnet Julie , Jung Julien , Bouet Romain , Leclercq Mathilde , Catenoix Hélène , Bezin Laurent , Ryvlin Philippe , Rheims Sylvain
Published: February 2021

Objective

Caffeine is an antagonist of the adenosine pathway, which is involved in regulation of breathing. Extracellular concentrations of adenosine are increased in the immediate aftermath of a seizure. Seizure‐related overstimulation of adenosine receptors might promote peri‐ictal apnea. However, the relation between caffeine consumption and risk of seizure‐related respiratory dysfunction in patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy remains unknown.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional analysis of data collected in patients included in the SAVE study in Lyon's epilepsy monitoring unit at the Adult Epilepsy Department of the Lyon University Hospital between February 2016 and October 2018. The video‐electroencephalographic recordings of 156 patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy included in the study were reviewed to identify those with ≥1 focal seizure (FS), valid pulse oximetry (SpO2) measurement, and information about usual coffee consumption. This latter was collected at inclusion using a standardized self‐questionnaire and further classified into four groups: none, rare (≤3 cups/week), moderate (4 cups/week to 3 cups/day), and high (≥4 cups/day). Peri‐ictal hypoxemia (PIH) was defined as SpO2< 90% for at least 5 s occurring during the ictal period, the post‐ictal period, or both.

Results

Ninety patients fulfilled inclusion criteria, and 323 seizures were analyzed. Both the level of usual coffee consumption (p = .033) and the level of antiepileptic drug withdrawal (p = .004) were independent risk factors for occurrence of PIH. In comparison with FS in patients with no coffee consumption, risk of PIH was four times lower in FS in patients with moderate consumption (odds ratio [OR] = .25, 95% confidence interval [CI] = .07–.91,p = .036) and six times lower in FS in patients with high coffee consumption (OR = .16, 95% CI = .04–.66,p = .011). However, when PIH occurred, its duration was longer in patients with moderate or high consumption than in those with no coffee consumption (p = .042).

Significance

Coffee consumption may be a protective factor for seizure‐related respiratory dysfunction, with a dose‐dependent effect.
Correlates of injection‐related wounds and skin infections amongst persons who inject drugs and use a syringe service programme: A single center study
Authors: Cahn Brian A. , Bartholomew Tyler S. , Patel Hardik P. , Pastar Irena , Tookes Hansel E. , Lev‐Tov Hadar
Published: February 2021

Risk factors associated with wounds and skin infections amongst persons who inject drugs may have changed in the era of fentanyl and now stimulant coinjection. We assessed the number of injection site wounds and skin infections and associated factors amongst 675 persons who inject drugs in a syringe services programme. Of this sample, 173 participants reported a total of 307 wounds and skin infections. Significant factors associated with increased number of wounds and skin infections were age 30 or older, female gender, ever experiencing homelessness, cocaine injection, and injecting between 5 and 10 years. Wounds and skin infections were common amongst syringe services programme clients and are associated with certain risk factors that may help to design effective interventions. Given the high prevalence of wounds in syringe services programme clients, wound care clinicians can make a significant difference and improve outcomes. We also shed light on correlates of wounds and skin infections in persons who inject drugs in order to spur further research to devise efficacious interventions for this underserved group.
Polymorphisms in ovine ME1 and CA1 genes and their association with feed efficiency in Hu sheep
Authors: Zhang Deyin , Zhang Xiaoxue , Li Fadi , Yuan Lvfeng , Zhang Yukun , Li Xiaolong , Zhao Yuan , Song Qizhi , Li Guoze , Wang Weimin
Published: February 2021

Improving feed efficiency would increase profitability for producers. The objective of this study was to detect the expression levels of ME1 and CA1 and the polymorphisms of ME1 and CA1 associated with the feed conversion ratio (FCR) and residual feed intake (RFI) of Hu sheep by using qRT‐PCR, pooled DNA sequencing and KASPar assay. The qRT‐PCR results indicated that the expression levels of ME1 and CA1 were significantly higher in the liver tissues of low‐RFI sheep than in those of the high‐RFI sheep (p <.01). Association analysis demonstrated that the polymorphism ME1 g.453 C > T was significantly associated with FCR and RFI (p <.05). The polymorphism CA1 g.199 C > T had a significantly associated with FCR (p <.05) and no association with RFI (p >.05). Significant differences were observed between the combined genotypes and FCR and RFI at different measurement periods (p <.05). Thus, we propose the use of these two polymorphisms as new candidate molecular markers for improving feed efficiency in sheep populations.
New Public Bodies
Authors: Tehve Karin
Published: February 2021

Public spaces do not exist without the presence of bodies. Mediation repositions bodies in space in relation to one another. Existing scholarship has focused on these effects in spaces of civic action, but everyday publics are less understood. This analysis of two recently completed public interiors at Hudson Yards in New York City examines the interplay of spaces, bodies, and images and the impact to the public space produced. Snarkpark (“a new age retail environment”) and Vessel (“a new public landmark”) were popular destinations in Hudson Yards, as documented by their Instagram feeds. A visit to either project involved the co–presence of strangers (a condition sociologist Lyn Lofland refers to as the public realm) but in their role as back–drops what resulted was primarily a disembodied, mediated communality. Instagram posts consisted primarily of photographs taken by visitors, selfies minimizing the presence of other visitors. These images posted to social media do not merely form an alternative to physical public space but transform it as well.
Trust and Trustworthiness of Christians, Muslims, and Atheists/Agnostics in the United States
Authors: Thunström Linda , Jones Ritten Chian , Bastian Christopher , Minton Elizabeth , Zhappassova Dayana
Published: February 2021

Trust, a cornerstone of economic development, is promoted within religions. In a randomized controlled trial, we examine how trust and trustworthiness vary across religions (Christianity and Islam), religiosity, and atheists/agnostics in the United States. Three novel findings emerge. First, Christians are trusted more than Muslims and nonbelievers, which is due to a Christian ingroup bias––Christians trust Christians more than they trust Muslims and nonbelievers, while Muslims and nonbelievers trust all groups the same. Second, religiosity matters to trust. Religious people trust those of higher religiosity more, but only if they are of the same religion. In contrast, nonbelievers trust people of higher religiosity less. Third, trustworthiness among nonbelievers is somewhat lower than that of the religious, especially toward Christians. We speculate that the lower reciprocity originates in the prejudice toward nonbelievers. Our results may help explain discrimination against Muslims and nonbelievers, given that discrimination often originates in distrust.
Changes in the estimated renal function after hepatitis C virus eradication with direct‐acting antiviral agents: Impact of changes in skeletal muscle mass
Authors: Tokuchi Yoshimasa , Suda Goki , Kimura Megumi , Maehara Osamu , Kitagataya Takashi , Ohara Masatsugu , Yamada Ren , Shigesawa Taku , Suzuki Kazuharu , Kawagishi Naoki , Nakai Masato , Sho Takuya , Natsuizaka Mitsuteru , Morikawa Kenichi , Ogawa Koji , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: February 2021

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can cause renal dysfunction, expected to improve upon HCV eradication. However, adverse effects of HCV eradication using direct‐acting antiviral agents (DAAs) on renal function have been recently reported. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate renal function with glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) estimated using creatinine (eGFRcre) and cystatin C (eGFRcys). Complete clinical information and preserved serum samples were collected from 207 patients with HCV infection treated with interferon‐free DAA at baseline and SVR48 (SVR48). Patients who underwent paired computed tomography (CT) at baseline and ≥12 months after DAA were evaluated for changes in skeletal muscle mass using the psoas muscle mass index (PMI). eGFRcre significantly worsened at SVR48, while eGFRcys was similar at baseline and SVR48. At baseline, eGFRcre was significantly higher than eGFRcys; eGFRcre and eGFRcys were similar at SVR48. Multivariate analysis revealed that the presence of liver cirrhosis and low‐albumin level, as well as cirrhosis and age, was significantly associated with the overestimation of renal function by eGFRcre at baseline and SVR48, respectively. In the 57 patients who underwent paired CT at baseline and ≥12 months after DAA, relative values of PMI significantly increased after DAA. After DAA, in patients with increased PMI (65% 37/57), eGFRcre significantly worsened but did not change in patients without increased PMI. eGFRcre significantly worsened after DAAs; however, this might not reflect accurate changes in renal function, partially because of changes in skeletal muscle mass. eGFRcys did not change after DAAs, and it is a potential alternative to eGFRcre.
Construction Learning by Child Learners of Foreign Language: Input Distribution and Learner Factors
Authors: HU CHIEH–FANG , MAECHTLE CHEYENNE
Published: February 2021

Two studies examined the role of input distribution in English construction learning, by child learners from a Mandarin first‐language background, and the extent to which phonological short‐term memory and awareness predicted such learning. In the first study, 4th‐grade students of Mandarin Chinese (N = 121) learned the English object‐cleft construction under skewed or balanced input conditions. In the skewed condition, the construction was instantiated by exemplars with a high token‐frequency verb; in the balanced condition, the exemplars were evenly distributed. The second study (N = 117) replicated the first study, except that the argument nouns of the verbs in the exemplars also varied. The 2 studies yielded similar results in that children's comprehension of new sentences of the construction and use of the construction to infer new words were not affected by input distribution but were associated with phonological awareness and short‐term memory. The results suggest that while child learners of a foreign language could abstract a new pattern from input without direct instruction, their performance was more consistently associated with individual learner factors than with input‐related factors.
The double‐edged sword of systemic corticosteroid therapy in viral pneumonia: A case report and comparative review of influenza‐associated mucormycosis versus COVID‐19 associated mucormycosis
Authors: Ahmadikia Kazem , Hashemi Seyed Jamal , Khodavaisy Sadegh , Getso Muhammad Ibrahim , Alijani Neda , Badali Hamid , Mirhendi Hossein , Salehi Mohammadreza , Tabari Azin , Mohammadi Ardehali Mojtaba , Kord Mohammad , Roilides Emmanuel , Rezaie Sassan
Published: February 2021

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a common complication of severe viral pneumonia, such as influenza and COVID‐19, that requires critical care including ventilatory support, use of corticosteroids and other adjunctive therapies to arrest the attendant massive airways inflammation. Although recommended for the treatment of viral pneumonia, steroid therapy appears to be a double‐edged sword, predisposing patients to secondary bacterial and invasive fungal infections (IFIs) whereby impacting morbidity and mortality. Mucormycosis is a fungal emergency with a highly aggressive tendency for contiguous spread, associated with a poor prognosis if not promptly diagnosed and managed. Classically, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM) and other immunosuppressive conditions including corticosteroid therapy are known risk factors for mucormycosis. Upon the background lung pathology, immune dysfunction and corticosteroid therapy, patients with severe viral pneumonia are likely to develop IFIs like aspergillosis and mucormycosis. Notably, the combination of steroid therapy and DM can augment immunosuppression and hyperglycaemia, increasing the risk of mucormycosis in a susceptible individual. Here, we report a case of sinonasal mucormycosis in a 44‐year‐old woman with hyperglycaemia secondary to poorly controlled diabetes following dexamethasone therapy on a background of influenza pneumonia and review 15 available literatures on reported cases of influenza and COVID‐19 associated mucormycosis.
Sinus rhythm heart rate increase after atrial fibrillation ablation is associated with lower risk of arrhythmia recurrence
Authors: Killu Ammar M. , Witt Chance M. , Sugrue Alan M. , Vaidya Vaibhav , Monahan Kristi H. , Barnes Stephanie , Lenz Charles J. , Yogeswaran Vidhushei , Sun Philip Y. , Hodge David O. , Friedman Paul A. , Packer Douglas L. , Asirvatham Samuel J.
Published: February 2021

Background

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with autonomic modulation may be more successful than PVI alone for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation and may be signaled by changes in sinus rhythm heart rate (HR) post ablation. We sought to determine if a change in sinus rhythm HR predicted AF recurrence post PVI.

Methods

Patients who underwent AF ablation from 2000 to 2011 were included if sinus rhythm was noted on ECG within 90 days pre and 7 days post ablation. Basic ECG interval and HR changes were analyzed and outcomes determined.

Results

A total of 1152 patients were identified (74.3% male, mean age 57 ± 11 years). Mean AF duration was 5.2 ± 5.3 years. Paroxysmal AF was noted in 712 (61.8%) of the patients. Mean EF was 61% ± 6%. Sinus rhythm HR was 61 ± 11 pre‐ablation and 76 ± 13 bpm post‐ablation (27% ± 24% increase, p < .001). The ability of relative HR change post‐ablation to predict AF recurrence was borderline (hazard ratio 0.65 [0.41–1.01], p = .067). With patients separated into quartiles based on the relative HR change, the upper quartile with the largest relative increase in HR had a significantly lower rate of AF recurrence compared to the lowest quartile following multi variable modeling (p = .038). There were significant changes in PR (171 ± 28 to 167 ± 30 ms) and QTc (424 ± 25 to 434 ± 29 ms) intervals (both p < .001) but these were not predictive of outcome.

Conclusion

Relative changes in HR post AF ablation correlates with AF recurrence. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm this relationship.
COVID‐19 antibody screening with SARS‐CoV‐2 red cell kodecytes using routine serologic diagnostic platforms
Authors: Nagappan Radhika , Flegel Willy A. , Srivastava Kshitij , Williams Eleanor C. , Ryzhov Ivan , Tuzikov Alexander , Galanina Oxana , Shilova Nadezhda , Sukhikh Gennady , Perry Holly , Bovin Nicolai V. , Henry Stephen M.
Published: February 2021

Background

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic is having a major global impact, and the resultant response in the development of new diagnostics is unprecedented. The detection of antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has a role in managing the pandemic. We evaluated the feasibility of using SARS‐CoV‐2 peptide Kode Technology‐modified red cells (C19‐kodecytes) to develop an assay compatible with existing routine serologic platforms.

Study Design and Methods

A panel of eight unique red cells modified using Kode Technology function‐spacer‐lipid constructs and bearing short SARS‐CoV‐2 peptides was developed (C19‐kodecyte assay). Kodecytes were tested against undiluted expected antibody‐negative and ‐positive plasma samples in manual tube and three column agglutination technology (CAT) platforms. Parallel analysis with the same peptides in solid phase by enzyme immunoassays was performed. Evaluation samples included >120 expected negative blood donor samples and >140 COVID‐19 convalescent plasma samples, with independent serologic analysis from two centers.

Results

Specificity (negative reaction rate against expected negative samples) in three different CAT platforms against novel C19‐kodecytes was >91%, which correlated with published literature. Sensitivity (positive reaction rate against expected positive convalescent, PCR‐confirmed samples) ranged from 82% to 97% compared to 77% with the Abbott Architect SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG assay. Manual tube serology was less sensitive than CAT. Enzyme immunoassay results with some Kode Technology constructs also had high sensitivity.

Conclusions

C19‐kodecytes are viable for use as serologic reagent red cells for the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody with routine blood antibody screening equipment.
El legado internacional de los megaeventos deportivos en Brasil: lecciones políticas y económicas para los países de la semiperiferia
Authors: Pulleiro Méndez Carlos
Published: February 2021

Después de una década de intereses políticos y económicos compartidos en la organización de megaeventos deportivos por parte de los estados semiperiféricos y las federaciones deportivas internacionales, el caso de Brasil, con la organización de la Copa Mundial FIFA en 2014 y los Juegos Olímpicos de Río de 2016, ha cambiado la dinámica de esta relación.

Por un lado, los estados de la semiperiferia han conformado los riesgos asociados con la organización de megaeventos deportivos respecto a la desestabilización política, económica y social del país. Por otro lado, la incapacidad de los megaeventos deportivos  para generar los legados positivos que fueran prometidos durante la fase de candidatura ha generado cuestionamientos respecto al rol de las organizaciones deportivas y sus campeonatos como herramientas de desarrollo.
A propósito de los 25 años del Estatuto Orgánico de Bogotá (EOB). Tres miradas sobre el modelo de descentralización de Bogotá como un modelo híbrido
Authors: JOLLY Jean-François , Dangond Gisbone Claudia
Published: February 2021

El Estatuto Orgánico de Bogotá —EOB— fija las relaciones entre la Administración central del Distrito y sus 20 localidades, y plantea así los lineamientos de la descentralización subdistrital de Bogotá. Este artículo reúne tres miradas que surgen a partir de una investigación reciente adelantada sobre el EOB por parte del grupo de investigación interfacultades “Políticas Urbanas” de la Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. La idea principal de estas reflexiones es cómo a partir del EOB, la descentralización de Bogotá se ha visto caracterizada por elementos de diversos modelos que la llevan a ser calificada como fruto de un proceso híbrido. Después de hacer un recorrido por los antecedentes históricos del EOB para comprender su origen, y los debates en la Asamblea Constituyente para poder dar explicación a las diversas corrientes que lo inspiraron y le dieron vida, explicitando el contexto político de la época, se presenta el diseño de la descentralización en Bogotá y cuáles son sus particularidades. Así, se hace una aproximación de la caracterización del modelo de descentralización de Bogotá como un proceso híbrido entre escentralización, desconcentración y delegación que, unas veces, privilegia el modelo económico de descentralización y, otras, el modelo político.
Las reflexiones finales dejan pensar que más que “desdibujarse y/o modificarse” bajo el efecto de los instrumentos de planificación y de gestión que le fueron posteriores, son las particularidades del “modelo de descentralización adoptado” en el EOB —es decir esencialmente su carácter híbrido. las que permiten entender lo que está ocurriendo cuando se pasa de la formulación de las directrices que se dan a nivel central del Distrito a la formulación y la implementación de los proyectos. Eso hace necesario fomentar un diálogo más fluido entre Administración central y localidades que fortalezca los espacios en los que la voz ciudadana esté presente como interlocutor válido.