bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CorNeat KPro: Ocular Implantation Study in Rabbits
Authors: Litvin Gilad , Klein Ido , Litvin Yoav , Klaiman Guy , Nyska Abraham
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate surgical feasibility and long-term integration of the CorNeat Keratoprosthesis (KPro), a novel synthetic cornea, in rabbits.

Methods:

The CorNeat KPro is a synthetic corneal implant designed to treat corneal blindness by using a polymeric scaffold for biointegration, consequently assimilating synthetic optics within ocular tissues. Eight New Zealand White rabbits were implanted unilaterally with the CorNeat KPro and observed for 6 months. Animals were regularly monitored by a certified ophthalmologist using slit-lamp biomicroscopy. One animal developed postoperative endophthalmitis and was removed from the study 7 weeks postsurgery. At termination, eyes were enucleated and evaluated histologically to assess local tissue integration and inflammatory response.

Results:

The surgical procedure was found feasible. The CorNeat KPro integrated into all operated eyes, resulting in a retention rate of 87.5% at the conclusion of the 6-month follow-up period. We observed minimal-to-mild conjunctival and iridial congestion and did not find additional inflammatory indicators, such as anterior chamber fibrin, flare, or cells. The optical element of the device remained clear with zero incidence of retroprosthetic membrane formation. Histopathological evaluation revealed comparable tissue and cellular reaction in all eyes, consisting of the presence of fibroblasts and associated collagen fibrils within the device's skirt component. Some eyes showed a mild foreign body reaction surrounding the skirt.

Conclusions:

Clinical and histological findings indicate the integration of the implanted device into the surrounding tissue, evident by the retention rate and the diffuse infiltration of fibroblasts with collagen deposition among the device's fibrils. These data hold promise for clinical application in humans.
Household wealth and HIV incidence over time, rural Uganda, 1994–2018
Authors: Santelli John S. , Chen Ivy , Makumbi Fred , Wei Ying , Nalugoda Fred , Lutalo Tom , Spindler Esther , Grilo Stephanie A. , Deisher Andrea , Grabowski Katherine , Hoffman Susie , Kagaayi Joseph , Chang Larry W. , Gray Ronald , Wawer Maria , Serwadda David
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To examine the relationship between household wealth and HIV incidence in rural Uganda over time from 1994 to 2018. In research conducted early in the epidemic, greater wealth (i.e. higher socioeconomic status, SES) was associated with higher HIV prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA); this relationship reversed in some settings in later years.

Design:

Analysis of associations over time in a population-based open cohort of persons 15–49 years from 17 survey-rounds in 28 continuously followed communities of the Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS).

Methods:

The RCCS sample averaged 8622 individuals and 5387 households per round. Principal components analysis was used to create a nine-item asset-based measure of household wealth. Poisson regression with generalized estimating equation (GEE) and exchangeable correlation structure was used to estimate HIV incidence rate ratios (IRRs) by SES quartile, survey-round, sex, and age group.

Results:

From 1994 to 2018, SES rose considerably, and HIV incidence declined from 1.45 to 0.40 per 100 person-years (IRR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.32--0.47, P < 0.001). HIV incidence was similar by SES category in the initial survey intervals (1994–1997); however, higher SES groups showed greater declines in HIV incidence over time. Multivariable analyses showed significant associations between HIV incidence and SES (IRR = 0.55 for highest compared with lowest quartile, 95% CI = 0.45--0.66, P < 0.001) controlling for time, sex, and age group.

Conclusion:

Beyond the early years of the RCCS, higher SES was associated with lower HIV incidence and SES gradients widened over time. The poor, like other key populations, should be targeted for HIV prevention, including treatment as prevention.
Relapsed Breast Implant–Associated Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma Presenting as Refractory Fluid Collections With Low Uptake on FDG PET/CT Scan
Authors: Alsa’di Hussein S. , Donald Joseph S.
Published: June 2021

Breast implant–associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs years after placement of textured surface breast implants. Patients typically present after the development of pain, a palpable mass, or swelling. We present a case of a 45-year-old woman with recurrent breast implant–associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma presenting as refractory fluid collections, and the unusual finding of low uptake on FDG PET/CT scan despite being confirmed by cytology.
Solitary Contralateral Adrenal Metastasis of Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Filizoglu Nuh , Ozguven Salih
Published: June 2021

68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT is an imaging technique used in the diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumors. Since renal cell carcinoma (RCC) expresses the somatostatin receptors, 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT could be used in the surveillance of RCC. However, limited cases showing 68Ga-DOTATATE uptake in the metastases of RCC have been reported before. Herein, we report a case of a 55-year-old woman with a history of left nephrectomy for clear cell renal cell carcinoma 2 years before, and referred to 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT for the evaluation of adrenal mass. 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT showed intense 68Ga-DOTATATE uptake on the adrenal mass. Histopathology of the adrenal mass confirmed the diagnosis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma metastasis.
Surgical Trainee Performance and Alignment With Surgical Program Director Expectations
Authors: Abbott Kenneth L. , Krumm Andrew E. , Kelley Jesse K. , Kendrick Daniel E. , Clark Michael J. , Chen Xilin , Gupta Tanvi , Jones Andrew T. , Moreno Beatriz Ibaáñez , Kwakye Gifty , Zaidi Nikki L. Bibler , Swanson David B. , Bell Richard H. , George Brian C. ,   on behalf of the Society for Improving Medical Professional Learning
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To examine the alignment between graduating surgical trainee operative performance and a prior survey of surgical program director expectations.

Background:

Surgical trainee operative training is expected to prepare residents to independently perform clinically important surgical procedures.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional observational study of US general surgery residents’ rated operative performance for Core general surgery procedures. Residents’ expected performance on those procedures at the time of graduation was compared to the current list of Core general surgery procedures ranked by their importance for clinical practice, as assessed via a previous national survey of general surgery program directors. We also examined the frequency of individual procedures logged by residents over the course of their training.

Results:

Operative performance ratings for 29,885 procedures performed by 1861 surgical residents in 54 general surgery programs were analyzed. For each Core general surgery procedure, adjusted mean probability of a graduating resident being deemed practice-ready ranged from 0.59 to 0.99 (mean 0.90, standard deviation 0.08). There was weak correlation between the readiness of trainees to independently perform a procedure at the time of graduation and that procedure’s historical importance to clinical practice (p = 0.22, 95% confidence interval 0.01–0.41, P = 0.06). Residents also continue to have limited opportunities to learn many procedures that are important for clinical practice.

Conclusion:

The operative performance of graduating general surgery residents may not be well aligned with surgical program director expectations.
The Recurrence of Motor Tics Mediated by Oral Prednisolone Use in Autistic Children: A Case Report
Authors: Figueiredo Tiago
Published: June 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to report motor tics worsening by prednisolone acute treatment, despite the use of aripiprazole and clonidine. It was also aimed to discuss the mechanisms involved in neuropsychiatric adverse effects with the use of corticosteroids.

Methods

It was reported a 7-year-old boy patient with a history of autism spectrum disorder and motor tics. He has remitted motor tics with an association between aripiprazole and clonidine. However, was registered motor tics' recurrence with acute use of prednisolone.

Conclusions

The neuropsychiatric adverse effects mediated by corticosteroid use are low explored, mainly in pediatric clinical practice. The prednisolone prescription is widespread in childhood and, considering some vulnerable conditions to this type of adverse effects, is imperative.
White matter degeneration in diffuse axonal injury and mild traumatic brain injury observed with automatic tractography
Authors: Ueda Ryo , Hara Hiroyoshi , Hata Junichi , Senoo Atsushi
Published: June 2021

A better understanding of white matter tract damage in patients with diffuse axonal injury (DAI) and mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) is important to obtain an objective basis for sequelae. The purpose of this study was to clarify the characteristics of white matter tract degeneration in DAI and MTBI using automated tractography. T1-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was performed on seven DAI and seven MTBI patients as well as on nine healthy subjects. Automated probabilistic tractography analysis was performed using FreeSurfer and TRACULA (tracts constrained by underlying anatomy) for the reconstruction of major nerve fibers. We investigated the difference between DTI quantitative values in each white matter nerve fiber between groups and attempted to evaluate the classification accuracy of DAI and MTBI using receiver operator curve analysis. Both DAI and MTBI appeared to exhibit axonal degeneration along the nerve fiber tract in a scattered manner. The mean diffusivity of the ampulla of the corpus callosum was significantly higher in DAI than that in MTBI patients, suggesting axonal degeneration of the corpus callosum in DAI patients. Using mean diffusivity of the right cingulum-angular bundle, DAI and MTBI could be discriminated with an area under the curve of 94%. Both DAI and MTBI exhibited scattered axonal degeneration; however, DAI appeared to exhibit more pronounced axonal degeneration in the ampulla of the corpus callosum than MTBI. Our results suggest that DAI and MTBI can be accurately distinguished using DTI.
A case of White–Sutton syndrome arising from a maternally-inherited mutation in POGZ
Authors: Liu Siqin , Yan Zhenxing , Huang Yaowei , Zheng Wenxia , Deng Yiting , Zou Yang , Xie Huifang
Published: June 2021

POGZ is located on chromosome 1q21.3, encoding a pogo transposable element-derived protein with a zinc finger cluster. White–Sutton syndrome (WHSUS, OMIM:616364) is a genetic disorder resulting from de novo heterozygous pathogenic variants in POGZ, which manifests as intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, specific facial features and other phenotypic spectra. To date, a total of twenty-one de novo POGZ mutations in WHSUS have been reported. Here we report the identification of a novel missense variant in the coding region of the POGZ gene (c.4042G>C), which occurred in a 15-year-old male and his mother with WHSUS. We describe their clinical features and compare them with clinical data of patients with WHSUS from the literature. Our finding broadens the spectrum of POGZ mutations and provides a good example of precision medicine through the combination of exome sequencing and clinical testing.
A machine learning model for multi-night actigraphic detection of chronic insomnia: development and validation of a pre-screening tool
Authors: Kusmakar S. , Karmakar C. , Zhu Y. , Shelyag S. , Drummond S. P. A. , Ellis J. G. , Angelova M.
Published: June 2021

We propose a novel machine learning-based method for analysing multi-night actigraphy signals to objectively classify and differentiate nocturnal awakenings in individuals with chronic insomnia (CI) and their cohabiting healthy partners. We analysed nocturnal actigraphy signals from 40 cohabiting couples with one partner seeking treatment for insomnia. We extracted 12 time-domain dynamic and nonlinear features from the actigraphy signals to classify nocturnal awakenings in healthy individuals and those with CI. These features were then used to train two machine learning classifiers, random forest (RF) and support vector machine (SVM). An optimization algorithm that incorporated the predicted quality of each night for each individual was used to classify individuals into CI or healthy sleepers. Using the proposed actigraphic signal analysis technique, coupled with a rigorous leave-one-out validation approach, we achieved a classification accuracy of 80% (sensitivity: 76%, specificity: 82%) in classifying CI individuals and their healthy bed partners. The RF classifier (accuracy: 80%) showed a better performance than SVM (accuracy: 75%). Our approach to analysing the multi-night nocturnal actigraphy recordings provides a new method for screening individuals with CI, using wrist-actigraphy devices, facilitating home monitoring.
Modelling the impact of travel restrictions on COVID-19 cases in Newfoundland and Labrador
Authors: Hurford Amy , Rahman Proton , Loredo-Osti J. Concepción
Published: June 2021

In many jurisdictions, public health authorities have implemented travel restrictions to reduce coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread. Policies that restrict travel within countries have been implemented, but the impact of these restrictions is not well known. On 4 May 2020, Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) implemented travel restrictions such that non-residents required exemptions to enter the province. We fit a stochastic epidemic model to data describing the number of active COVID-19 cases in NL from 14 March to 26 June. We predicted possible outbreaks over nine weeks, with and without the travel restrictions, and for contact rates 40–70% of pre-pandemic levels. Our results suggest that the travel restrictions reduced the mean number of clinical COVID-19 cases in NL by 92%. Furthermore, without the travel restrictions there is a substantial risk of very large outbreaks. Using epidemic modelling, we show how the NL COVID-19 outbreak could have unfolded had the travel restrictions not been implemented. Both physical distancing and travel restrictions affect the local dynamics of the epidemic. Our modelling shows that the travel restrictions are a plausible reason for the few reported COVID-19 cases in NL after 4 May.
Anatomy and systematics of the diplodocoidAmphicoelias altussupports high sauropod dinosaur diversity in the Upper Jurassic Morrison Formation of the USA
Authors: Mannion Philip D. , Tschopp Emanuel , Whitlock John A.
Published: June 2021

Sauropod dinosaurs were an abundant and diverse component of the Upper Jurassic Morrison Formation of the USA, with 24 currently recognized species. However, some authors consider this high diversity to have been ecologically unviable and the validity of some species has been questioned, with suggestions that they represent growth series (ontogimorphs) of other species. Under this scenario, high sauropod diversity in the Late Jurassic of North America is greatly overestimated. One putative ontogimorph is the enigmatic diplodocoidAmphicoelias altus, which has been suggested to be synonymous withDiplodocus. Given thatAmphicoeliaswas named first, it has priority and thusDiplodocuswould become its junior synonym. Here, we provide a detailed re-description ofA. altusin which we restrict it to the holotype individual and support its validity, based on three autapomorphies. Constraint analyses demonstrate that its phylogenetic position within Diplodocoidea is labile, but it seems unlikely thatAmphicoeliasis synonymous withDiplodocus. As such, our re-evaluation also leads us to retainDiplodocusas a distinct genus. There is no evidence to support the view that any of the currently recognized Morrison sauropod species are ontogimorphs. Available data indicate that sauropod anatomy did not dramatically alter once individuals approached maturity. Furthermore, subadult sauropod individuals are not prone to stemward slippage in phylogenetic analyses, casting doubt on the possibility that their taxonomic affinities are substantially misinterpreted. An anatomical feature can have both an ontogenetic and phylogenetic signature, but the former does not outweigh the latter when other characters overwhelmingly support the affinities of a taxon. Many Morrison Formation sauropods were spatio-temporally and/or ecologically separated from one another. Combined with the biases that cloud our reading of the fossil record, we contend that the number of sauropod dinosaur species in the Morrison Formation is currently likely to be underestimated, not overestimated.
DEEP LEARNING TISSUE ANALYSIS DIAGNOSES AND PREDICTS TREATMENT RESPONSE IN EOSINOPHILIC ESOPHAGITIS
Authors: Javaid Aamir , Fernandes Philip , Adorno William , Catalano Alexis , Ehsan Lubaina , von Eckstaedt Hans Vizthum , Barnes Barrett , Khan Marium , Raghavan Shyam S. , McGowan Emily , Collins Margaret H. , Rothenberg Marc E. , Moskaluk Christopher A , Brown Donald E. , Syed Sana
Published: June 2021

Background

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition diagnosed by ≥15 eosinophils (Eos) per high-power field (HPF). There is no gold standard for clinical remission and Eo-associated metrics are poorly correlated with symptoms. Deep learning can be used to explore the relationships of tissue features with clinical response.

Objectives

To determine if deep learning can elucidate tissue patterns in EoE that predict treatments or symptoms at remission.

Methods

We created two deep learning models using esophageal biopsies from histologically normal and EoE patients: one to identify Eos in esophageal biopsies and a second to broadly classify esophageal tissue as EoE vs. normal. We used these models to analyze biopsies at diagnosis and first remission timepoint, as defined by <15 Eos/HPF, in a subset of 19 treatment-naïve patients. Differences in deep learning metrics between patient groups were assessed using Wilcoxon Rank-Sum tests.

Results

All initial patients were symptomatic at diagnosis and a majority were still suffering from dysphagia at remission. The Eo identification model had a low mean (SD) error of −0.3 (11.5) Eos/HPF. Higher peak and average Eo counts at diagnosis were associated with higher likelihood of being on a food-elimination diet at remission than steroids or proton-pump inhibitor (p<0.05). The EoE classification model had an F1-score of 0.97 for distinguishing normal tissue from EoE. There was a significant decrease from diagnosis in the percentage of EoE-classified tissue among asymptomatic remission patients (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Deep learning may have utility in diagnosing EoE and predicting future treatment response at diagnosis and resolution of symptoms at follow-up.

Clinical Implications or Key Messages (for mechanistic article)

We developed two deep learning approaches for tissue analysis in eosinophilic esophagitis, which may improve histologic assessment of patients at diagnosis and predict treatment response and symptoms at remission.

Capsule summary

Two deep learning approaches for eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE): (1) Quantification of eosinophils throughout an entire biopsy, which predicted treatment at remission (2) Classifying esophageal tissue as EoE or normal, which predicted symptoms at remission.
Hospital saturation and risk of death without receiving mechanical ventilation in hospitalized COVID-19 patients: a city-wide analysis
Authors: Núñez Isaac , Soto-Mota Adrián
Published: June 2021

Background

Pneumonia is the hallmark of severe COVID-19, with supplemental oxygen requirement being the main indication for hospitalization. Refractory hypoxemia in these patients requires invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) otherwise, death is imminent. In places with a high disease burden, availability of critical care experts, beds, or resources is challenged and many patients could die without receiving them.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study using open databases from Mexico City about suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients, health system saturation, and deaths between May 8th, 2020, and January 5th, 2021. After building a directed acyclic graph, we performed a binary logistic regression to identify the association between proposed causal variables and dying without receiving IMV (the outcome).

Results

We included 33 805 hospitalized patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, of which 19 820 (58.6%) did not require IMV and survived, 5416 (16.1%) required and received IMV, and 8569 (25.3%) required IMV but died without receiving it. Saturation of IMV-capable beds did not increase the odds of the outcome (odds ratio 1.07, 95% confidence interval 0.94-1.22 of 90%vs50% occupancy), while general bed saturation (2, 1.86-2.14 of 90%vs50% occupancy) and IMV-capable to general bed ratio (1.64, 1.52-1.77 for a ratio of 2vs0.5) did. Private healthcare decreased the odds of the outcome (0.12, 0.08-0.17) and dyspnea increased them (1.33, 1.19-1.9).

Conclusions

In Mexico City, increased general hospital bed saturation and IMV-capable to general bed ratio were associated with a higher risk of dying without receiving IMV. Private healthcare was the most protective factor.

Key messages

Hospital saturation has been a central feature of public health messaging, but it is not known how outcomes relate to hospital saturation or capacity.

In Mexico City, 90% of COVID-19 patients requiring mechanical ventilation died but less than half received it.

Higher general bed saturation and an increased ratio of IMV-capable beds to general beds increased the probability of dying without being intubated while receiving private healthcare decreased this probability.

Having available beds to intubate patients is possible thanks to the conversion of general beds, however, still yields suboptimal critical care.
Quantitative imaging of intracellular density with ratiometric stimulated Raman scattering microscopy
Authors: Figueroa Benjamin , Xu Fiona Xi , Hu Ruoqian , Men Shuaiqian , Fu Dan
Published: June 2021

Cell size and density impact a wide range of physiological functions, including tissue homeostasis, growth regulation, and osmoregulation. Both are tightly regulated in mammalian cells. In comparison, density variation of a given cell type is much smaller than cell size, indicating that maintenance of cell type-specific density is important for cell function. Despite this importance, little is known about how cell density affects cell function and how it is controlled. Current tools for intracellular cell density measurements are limited either to suspended cells or cells growing on 2D substrates, neither of which recapitulate the physiology of single cells in intact tissue. While optical measurements have the potential to measure cell density in situ and noninvasively, light scattering in multicellular systems prevents direct quantification. Here, we introduce an intracellular density imaging technique based on ratiometric stimulated Raman scattering microscopy (rSRS). It quantifies intracellular drymass density through vibrational imaging of macromolecules. Moreover, water is used as an internal standard to correct for aberration and light scattering. We demonstrate real-time measurement of intracellular density quantification and show that density is tightly regulated across different cell types and can be used to differentiate cell types as well as cell states. We further demonstrate dynamic imaging of density change in response to osmotic challenge as well as intracellular density imaging of a 3D tumor spheroid. Our technique has the potential for imaging intracellular density in intact tissue and understanding density regulation and its role in tissue homeostasis.
Moral injury and wellbeing in essential workers during the Covid-19 pandemic: Local survey findings
Authors: Guy Catherine , Kunonga Edward , Kennedy Angela , Patel Paras
Published: June 2021

Essential workers have faced many difficult situations working during in the pandemic. Staff may feel that they, or other people, have acted wrongly and be distressed by this. This represents moral injury, which has been linked with significant mental ill health.

This survey asked essential workers in County Durham and Darlington about their experiences during the first wave of the pandemic and anything they felt would help. Wellbeing and moral injury were rated using sliders.

There were 566 responses. A majority of respondents reported feeling troubled by other people’s actions they felt were wrong (60% scored over 40, where 0 is “not at all troubled” and 100 “very troubled”, median score=52.5). Respondents were generally less troubled by their own actions (median score=3). Wellbeing and moral injury scores varied by employment sector (e.g. NHS staff were more troubled by the actions of others than non-NHS staff).

Staff suggestions included regular supervisor check-ins, ensuring kindness from everyone, fair rules and enforcement and improving communication and processes. Respondents offered simple, practical actions that could be taken by leaders at team, organisation, societal and government policy levels to tackle moral injury and the underlying causes of moral injurious environments.

Using these findings to develop a strategy to address moral injury is important, not only for staff wellbeing, but staff retention and continued delivery of vital services in these challenging times. Working together, we can seek to reduce and mitigate “moral injury” the same way we do for other physical “injuries” in the workplace.
Proinflammatory responses in SARS-CoV-2 infected and soluble spike glycoprotein S1 subunit activated human macrophages
Authors: Chiok Kim , Hutchison Kevin , Miller Lindsay Grace , Bose Santanu , Miura Tanya A.
Published: June 2021

Critically ill COVID-19 patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 display signs of generalized hyperinflammation. Macrophages trigger inflammation to eliminate pathogens and repair tissue, but this process can also lead to hyperinflammation and resulting exaggerated disease. The role of macrophages in dysregulated inflammation during SARS-CoV-2 infection is poorly understood. We used SARS-CoV-2 infected and glycosylated soluble SARS-CoV-2 Spike S1 subunit (S1) treated THP-1 human-derived macrophage-like cell line to clarify the role of macrophages in pro-inflammatory responses. Soluble S1 upregulated TNF-α and CXCL10 mRNAs, and induced secretion of TNF-α from THP-1 macrophages. While THP-1 macrophages did not support productive SARS-CoV-2 replication, virus infection resulted in upregulation of both TNF-α and CXCL10 genes. Our study shows that S1 is a key viral component inducing inflammatory response in macrophages, independently of virus replication. Thus, virus-infected or soluble S1-activated macrophages may become sources of pro-inflammatory mediators contributing to hyperinflammation in COVID-19 patients.
Double-stranded RNA drives SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein to undergo phase separation at specific temperatures
Authors: Roden Christine A. , Dai Yifan , Seim Ian , Lee Myungwoon , Sealfon Rachel , McLaughlin Grace A. , Boerneke Mark A. , Iserman Christiane , Wey Samuel A. , Ekena Joanne L. , Troyanskaya Olga G. , Weeks Kevin M. , You Lingchong , Chilkoti Ashutosh , Gladfelter Amy S.
Published: June 2021

Betacoronavirus SARS-CoV-2 infections caused the global Covid-19 pandemic. The nucleocapsid protein (N-protein) is required for multiple steps in the betacoronavirus replication cycle. SARS-CoV-2-N-protein is known to undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) with specific RNAs at particular temperatures to form condensates. We show that N-protein recognizes at least two separate and distinct RNA motifs, both of which require double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) for LLPS. These motifs are separately recognized by N-protein’s two RNA binding domains (RBDs). Addition of dsRNA accelerates and modifies N-protein LLPS in vitro and in cells and controls the temperature condensates form. The abundance of dsRNA tunes N-protein-mediated translational repression and may confer a switch from translation to genome packaging. Thus, N-protein’s two RBDs interact with separate dsRNA motifs, and these interactions impart distinct droplet properties that can support multiple viral functions. These experiments demonstrate a paradigm of how RNA structure can control the properties of biomolecular condensates.
SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern B.1.1.7: diagnostic accuracy of three antigen-detecting rapid tests
Authors: Lindner Andreas K. , Krüger Lisa J. , Nikolai Olga , Klein Julian A.F. , Rössig Heike , Schnitzler Paul , Corman Victor M. , Jones Terry C. , Tobian Frank , Gaeddert Mary , Burock Susen , Sacks Jilian A. , Seybold Joachim , Mockenhaupt Frank P. , Denkinger Claudia M.
Published: June 2021

Virus mutations have the potential to impact the accuracy of diagnostic tests. The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 lineage is defined by a large number of mutations in the spike gene and four in the nucleocapsid (N) gene. Most commercially available SARS-CoV-2 antigen-detecting rapid tests (Ag-RDTs) target the viral N-protein, encoded by the N-gene.

We conducted a manufacturer-independent, prospective diagnostic accuracy study of three SARS-CoV-2 Ag-RDTs that are currently under review by the WHO Emergency Use Listing Procedure (Espline -Fujirebio Inc.; Sure Status -Premier Medical Corporation Private Limited; Mologic -Mologic Ltd.) and report here on an additional sub-analysis regarding the B.1.1.7 lineage. During the study, in Berlin and Heidelberg, Germany, from 20 January to 15 April 2021, B.1.1.7 rapidly became the dominant SARS-CoV-2 lineage at the testing sites and was detected in 220 (62%) of SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR positive patients. All three Ag-RDTs yielded comparable sensitivities irrespective of an infection with the B.1.1.7 lineage or not.

There is only limited data on how N-gene mutations in variants of concern may impact Ag-RDTs. Currently, no major changes to test performance are anticipated. However, test developers and health authorities should assess and monitor the impact of emerging variants on the accuracy of Ag-RDTs.
Colorectal cancer progression is potently reduced by a glucose-free, high-protein diet: comparison to anti-EGFR therapy
Authors: Skibbe Kerstin , Brethack Ann-Kathrin , Suenderhauf Annika , Ragab Mohab , Raschdorf Annika , Hicken Maren , Schlichting Heidi , Preira Joyce , Brandt Jennifer , Castven Darko , Foeh Bandik , Pagel Rene , Marquardt Jens U. , Sina Christian , Derer Stefanie
Published: June 2021

Background & Aims: To enable rapid proliferation, colorectal tumor cells up-regulate epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling and perform high level of aerobic glycolysis, resulting in substantial lactate release into the tumor microenvironment and impaired anti-tumor immune responses. We hypothesized that an optimized nutritional intervention designed to reduce aerobic glycolysis of tumor cells may boost EGFR-directed antibody (Ab)-based therapy of pre-existing colitis-driven colorectal carcinoma (CRC).
Methods: CRC development was induced by azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) administration to C57BL/6 mice. AOM/DSS treated mice were fed a glucose-free, high-protein diet (GFHPD) or an isoenergetic control diet (CD) in the presence or absence of i.p. injection of PBS, an irrelevant control mIgG2a or an anti-EGFR mIgG2a. Ex vivo, health status, tumor load, metabolism, colonic epithelial cell differentiation and immune cell infiltration were studied. Functional validation was performed in murine and human CRC cell lines MC-38 or HT29-MTX.
Results: AOM/DSS treated mice on GFHPD displayed reduced systemic glycolysis, resulting in improved tumoral energy homeostasis and diminished tumor load. Comparable but not additive to an anti-EGFR-Ab therapy, GFHPD was accompanied by enhanced tumoral differentiation and decreased colonic PD-L1 and splenic PD-1 immune checkpoint expression, presumably promoting intestinal barrier function and improved anti-tumor immune responses. In vitro, glucose-free, high-amino acid culture conditions reduced proliferation but improved differentiation of CRC cells in combination with down-regulation of PD-L1 expression.
Conclusion: We here found GFHPD to metabolically reprogram colorectal tumors towards balanced OXPHOS, thereby improving anti-tumor T-cell responses and reducing CRC progression with a similar efficacy as EGFR-directed antibody therapy.
Relative precision of the sibship and LD methods for estimating effective population size with genomics-scale datasets
Authors: Waples Robin S.
Published: June 2021

Computer simulations were used to compare relative precision of two widely-used single-sample methods for estimating effective population size (Ne)—the sibship method and the linkage-disequilibrium (LD) method. Emphasis is on performance when thousands of gene loci are used, which now can easily be achieved even for non-model species. Results show that unless Ne is very small, if at least 500-2000 diallelic loci are used, precision of the LD method is higher than the maximum possible precision for the sibship method, which occurs when all sibling relationships have been correctly identified. Results also show that when precision is high for both methods, their estimates of effective population size are high and positively correlated, which limits additional gains in precision that might be obtained by combining information from the two estimators.
cis-Bis(L-DOPA-κ2
N,O)copper(II) monohydrate: synthesis, crystal structure, and approaches to the analysis of pseudosymmetry
Authors: O'Brien Paul , Poyner Elizabeth A. , Alraddadi Thamer S. , Hursthouse Michael B. , Foxman Bruce M.
Published: June 2021

The crystal structure of the cis isomer of cis-bis(L-DOPA-κ2
N,O)copper(II) monohydrate (L-DOPA is 3,4-dihydroxy-L-phenylalanine) (CuLD), [Cu(C9H10NO4)2]·H2O, is a singular example of a structurally characterized, homoleptic, crystalline metal L-DOPA complex. CuLD crystallizes in the space group P21, with Z′ = 2. The two independent molecules are square planar, and are interconnected by a linear hydrogen-bonded chain containing 12 independent hydrogen bonds. The copper ions in both molecules have weak apical intermolecular Cu...O interactions [2.739 (2) and 2.973 (2) Å] with catechol –OH groups. A survey of the Cambridge Structural Database suggested that cis and trans isomers of Cu(NH2–C–CO2)2 amino acid complexes are equally likely to occur. 12 strong O—H...O and N—H...O hydrogen bonds stabilize an unusual linear arrangement of the Cu complexes. The Cu...Cu′ distances along the chain are nearly equal [5.0739 (3) and 5.1107 (3) Å] and the Cu...Cu′...Cu angles are nearly linear [176.75 (1)°]. The MATCH procedure available in the Oxford University Crystals for Windows package was used to carry out a detailed analysis of the relationship between the two independent molecules. MATCH has some particular advantages in studying the details of pseudosymmetry, which include: (i) no atomic-order requirements; (ii) the pseudosymmetry matrix is readily available, which allows quick insight into the symmetry elements involved and their location; and (iii) the differences between molecular centroids, as well as between all atomic positions and torsion angles, are listed. A tutorial presentation is designed to attract new users to the technique. In the present case, a search for a pseudosymmetric relationship between the two independent molecules showed that they are related by a pseudo-42 axis along the crystallographic c direction. A detailed analysis shows that the pseudo-42 symmetry is disrupted by torsions about the CH2—C(ipso) bonds, and that there is no supergroup that can be used to describe the crystal structure.
Lake water volume calculation using time series LANDSAT satellite data: a geospatial analysis of Deepor Beel Lake, Guwahati
Authors: Ahmed Ishita Afreen , Shahfahad Shahfahad , Baig Mirza Razi Imam , Talukdar Swapan , Asgher Md Sarfaraz , Usmani Tariq Mahmood , Ahmed Shakeel , Rahman Atiqur
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Deepor Beel is one of the Ramsar Site and a wetland of great biodiversity, situated in the south-western part of Guwahati, Assam. With urban development at its forefront city of Guwahati, Deepor Beel is under constant threat. The study aims to calculate the lake water volume from the water surface area and the underwater terrain data using a triangulated irregular network (TIN) volume model.

Design/methodology/approach

The lake water surface boundaries for each year were combined with field-observed water level data to generate a description of the underwater terrain. Time series LANDSAT images of 2001, 2011 and 2019 were used to extract the modified normalized difference water index (MNDWI) in GIS domain.

Findings

The MNDWI was 0.462 in 2001 which reduced to 0.240 in 2019. This shows that the lake water storage capacity shrank in the last 2 decades. This leads to a major problem, i.e. the storage capacity of the lake has been declining gradually from 20.95 million m3 in 2001 to 16.73 million m3 in 2011 and further declined to 15.35 million m3 in 2019. The fast decline in lake water volume is a serious concern in the age of rapid urbanization of big cities like Guwahati.

Originality/value

None of the studies have been done previously to analyze the decline in the volume of Deepor Beel lake. Therefore, this study will provide useful insights in the water resource management and the conservation of Deepor Beel lake.
More than lip service to internal market orientation: a multilevel investigation of the role of internal service quality
Authors: Mo Ziying , Liu Matthew Tingchi , Wong IpKin Anthony
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Drawing on self-determination theory and the service-profit chain, this study aims to expand the current understanding of the internal processes of internal market orientation (IMO) on an organizational commitment by investigating the interactive effect between job (task) satisfaction and internal service quality in the field of hospitality and tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the cross-level effects of internal service quality through a time-lagged field study with multilevel structural equation modeling analysis that involved 667 frontline employees from 40 casino hotels.

Findings

The results reveal the IMO has an indirect effect on affective and normative organizational commitments through the interaction of job (task) satisfaction with internal service quality, such that internal service quality compensates for relatively low levels of job (task) satisfaction. While no indirect effect is found on continuance organizational commitment.

Research limitations/implications

This study extends the service-profit chain by integrating self-determination theory and by investigating IMO’s indirect effects on commitment through the interaction between job (task) satisfaction and internal service quality.

Practical implications

The study provides practical solutions to the employee servicing and employee retention dilemmas faced by casino organizations.

Originality/value

This study advances the service-profit chain literature by proposing and theorizing an internal process of IMO, through the cross-level buffering effect of internal service quality on the relationship between job (task) satisfaction and organizational commitment. This study further presents the theoretical and managerial implications by understanding how employees’ perceptions and interpretations of IMO affect their commitment.
Functioning tourism interpretation on consumer products at the tourist generating region through tea tourism
Authors: Khaokhrueamuang Amnaj , Chueamchaitrakun Piyaporn , Kachendecha Warinthorn , Tamari Yuki , Nakakoji Kazuyoshi
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to clarify the functions of tourism interpretations of consumer products in a tourist-generating region (TGR) as a means of marketing the tourist destination region (TDR) through tea tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a case study of the Thai Shizuoka Green Tea brand working to promote tea tourism in Shizuoka, Japan. It is used to identify the functions of tourism interpretations of consumer products in a TGR related to the concept of brand identity. This paper assessed Thai consumers’ opinions on the efficiency of tourism interpretation through a sample of 404 questionnaires and with interviews of ten young females, the primary respondents.

Findings

Tourism interpretations of the TGR’s consumer products are important for promoting the TDR through five premises: 1) motivating visitors to visit the destination, 2) communicating the place’s meaning, 3) targeting potential tourists, 4) differentiating the destination from other sites and 5) activating value co-creation. Premises 1 and 2 were assumed to stem from visitors’ enjoyment of the tea; the packaging motivated their visit to Shizuoka, its origin. Premise 3 concerns young women who view the product as a premium healthy drink. Premises 4 and 5 are based on the brand’s essence, implying the tea company’s partnership between Thailand and Japan.

Originality/value

Tourism interpretation plays a significant role in TDRs’ success; however, it can be implemented with other consumer products and an efficient brand identity, to create an image of a destination.
Case study – trade dress and brand protection in Thailand’s copier paper business
Authors: Suttiprasit Pabhawan , Wongsurawat Winai
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze an unusual legal development concerning brand protection in Thailand. The case study elucidates many key concepts in brand management and the political economy of Thailand.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach is adopted, in which a chronology of key events surrounding a supreme court decision are developed. An analysis of the causes and consequences of the verdict is presented drawing on inputs from legal and business experts.

Findings

The decision at the center of this case is ground breaking. Unlike conventional infringement decisions that are based on tangible designs of products, this case established protection of a brand image based on advertisements aired on television. It is argued that the decision went too far in the protection of trade dress and may potentially limit freedom and creativity for future marketing campaigns.

Practical implications

Intellectual property protection in developing economies such as in Thailand can be complicated by a lack of clear laws and the political and social influence of the parties involved.

Originality/value

The case provides the first analysis of a potentially consequential supreme court decision with links to the unique context of the political economy of Thailand.
The approach of Islamic economists to the prohibition of interest in the context of Böhm-Bawerk’s time preference theory of interest
Authors: Eyerci Cem
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Böhm-Bawerk’s time preference approach had significant importance among many other theories of interest. His assertion based on inherent human nature and the distinction he made between the positive and normative aspects of interest were remarkably authentic. As it is assumed that any efficient evaluation, judgment or regulation on the legitimacy of interest has to consider the theory of time preference, especially Böhm-Bawerk’s approach, the paper aimed to examine the Islamic economists’ response to the time preference theory of interest.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents Böhm-Bawerk’s time preference theory of interest. Then, it evaluates the Islamic economists’ views on the concepts of the time value of money and time preference qualitatively by scrutinizing the relevant literature.

Findings

It is observed that there is not any proper response of Islamic economists to the assertions of the causes of time preference. Responding to such challenges requires an approach that is mostly developed in the positive domain.

Originality/value

Although it is evident that interest is regarded as destructive in Islamic economics, the consideration is primarily normative. However, a convincing assertion also requires to be justified in the positive domain. Empirical works are exhibiting the problems with interest-based transactions. Besides, this paper raises the need for theoretical expositions of Islamic economists in response to the interest theories, which claim that the existence of interest is inevitable.
How emotions affect restaurant digital ordering experiences: a comparison of three ordering methods
Authors: Leung Xi Y. , Wen Han
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of consumption emotion in the digital food-ordering experience by comparing the performances of the three digital ordering methods in an experimental design.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model was developed based on the Feelings-as-Information (FaI) theory and the expectancy-disconfirmation theory. A 3 × 2 between-subjects lab experiment was conducted to compare the three digital ordering methods (online, mobile or chatbot) in two different types of restaurants (quick-service or full-service).

Findings

The results indicate that the chatbot ordering method evoked more negative emotions and less positive emotions than the other two methods. The online ordering method worked the best for quick-service restaurants, whereas the mobile ordering method was most suitable for full-service restaurants. Both positive and negative emotions (comfort and annoyance) significantly mediated the relationships between the ordering method and internal responses (satisfaction and behavioral intention). Only one negative emotion (anger) significantly mediated the relationship between the ordering method and order amount.

Originality/value

This is the first study that attempts to explore and compare consumers’ emotional responses resulting from restaurant digital ordering experiences in the context of the three food-ordering methods. The use of the FaI theory strengthens the theoretical foundation of research on emotion in the hospitality field. This study also pioneers the application of chatbot technology in the restaurant industry.