bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MOOD DETECTION BASED ON LAST SONG LISTENED ON SPOTIFY
Authors: Ferdiana Ridi , Dicka Wiiliam Fajar , Yudanto Faturahman
Published: September 2022

A Song Is One Medium Used To Express Someone’s Emotion, Whether As A Performer Or Audience. With The Advancement Of Machine Learning And A Deeper Understanding Of Sentiment Analysis, We Decided To Study Mood Detection Based On The Last Song Listened To. One of the direct ways to measure someone's mood is by using a Four-dimensional Mood Scale (FDMS) device. This device categorized mood into four dimensions: low valence, high valence, low arousal, and high arousal. In this article, we used a variation of FDMS adapted to the Indonesian language called FDMS-55 to compare the result from our model. Our model is trained using song data collected from Spotify and Genius using their respective API (Application Programming Interface). We classified manually into a mood class and then processed further using Azure Cognitive Service Text Analytics API. Based on evaluation conducted on the model, the FastTreeOva algorithm produces the highest accuracy both on valence class with 0.8901 and arousal class with 0.9167. The comparison between the model result and respondent's FDMS-55 device result is made with cosine similarity and yields similarity value of 0.770 with 0.103 standard deviation. It is concluded that someone's mood is related to the song they listened to, and our model can precisely predict someone's mood based on the last song they listened to.
Urban Green Space for Sustainable Environmental Health in Relation to Pandemic Crises
Authors: Nor Azhar Ali Saifuddin , Mohd. Hussain Mohd. Ramzi , Tukiman Izawati
Published: September 2022

Trace the timeline of a pandemic such as Ebola, SARS, and SARS-CoV-2. All these extremely infectious viruses led to a worldwide pandemic starting in 2002. All these three viruses are transmitted to humans by animals from the jungle. The novel human coronavirus COVID-19 is now the fifth documented pandemic since the 1918 influenza pandemic. Questions about pandemics are on the rise these days, and it is widely discussed in the media. Recently, awareness about urban green spaces is rising in this era, and numerous researchers claim that appropriate landscape planning and design with the conception of sustainability able to produce a beneficial and responsive environment for healthy urban improvement in relation to pandemic crises. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of urban green spaces for sustainable environmental health. The result shows that the role of urban green spaces improves immune system function, increases social capital and cohesion, reduces mortality, and increases life expectancy, reduces potential negative health impacts, and makes urban beautification healthier. In addition, the finding shows the benefits of urban green spaces in pandemics, for example improving mental health and stress reduction, improving physical health, decreasing the risk of disease transmission, and improving social cohesion.
Methodological Framework of Structured Case Study in Urban Morphology: Preparedness to Pandemic from Theory Building
Authors: Harun Nor Zalina , Mohamed Syahidah Amni , Jaafar Nor Haslina
Published: September 2022

The morphological patterns of the Malay town are analysed using three main elements of urban form: road networks, building plots, and open space. However, considering the physical aspects of a city, as well as the impact of geography, social, economic, and political forces, allows us to establish a city's particular character, which may be altered by multiple socioeconomic changes brought on by the pandemic. There are few well-documented systematic procedures for examining the morphological changes associated with Malay settlement features, implying considerable differences in the approaches used. By describing techniques and analysing the urban form, this article aims to spark discussion on what an antifragile built environment might look like. It also aims to shed light on how to create dynamic pseudo adaptability in the old and historic town, particularly in terms of scale, urban morphology, and social life, by establishing a systematic analytical framework for the analysis of urban morphology. To exemplify the process of building the methodological structure, a single case study was undertaken in Kota Bharu's Old Settlement Zone. The case study is subdivided into four sections: a) conceptual structure, b) case study design framework, and c) mapping research framework. It is defined through an iterative process that described the specifics of crucial features to establish an extensive methodological framework for the Malay settlement by thoroughly developing and scrutinising methodological processes. Because the current pandemic is sharpening our understanding of the link between local and global action, as well as the power inherent in the application of professional and technical knowledge and practice, this paper hoped to help with the development of policies and guidelines, as well as the evaluation of proposals for post-pandemic urban morphological assessments.
Role of Algae in Built Environment and Green Cities: A Holistic approach towards Sustainability
Authors: Ahmad Imran , Abdullah Norhayati , Koji Iwamoto , Mohamad Shaza Eva , Al-Dailami Anas , Yuzir Ali
Published: September 2022

The changing lifestyle, urbanization, and depletion of non-renewable resources to match the ever-increasing energy demand are causing a pessimistic impact on the environment. The cities are responsible for 75% of carbon emissions and about 60-80% of the energy consumption globally, causing a precarious situation because they only constitute 3% of the earth’s land. Urbanization makes the cities vulnerable due to the changing climatic conditions and possibilities of natural deserts disasters, thereby compelling the researchers to go for planning building green and resilient cities. Green cities are imperative in resisting the environmental crisis and assure a sustainable future for the upcoming generations. The pivotal role for the green cities is played by the renewable sources of energy. Therefore, solar and wind energy systems were employed, but eventually these renewable energy systems are associated with cost and pollution issues.  This led to the paradigm-shifting towards algae as a third-generation feedstock and it is expected to become a potential source of green energy and environment due to the following advantages: (i) sequestration of CO2 and other greenhouse gases (GHGs), (ii) they can be easily and rapidly cultured and bioengineered, (iii) they can utilize the wastewater as a source of nutrients for its cultivation,  (iv) their growth does not depend upon the geography and climate, and (v) algal biomass can be processed into biofuels (biodiesel, bioethanol, biogas etc) and other useful bioproducts (biofertilizer & biochar). This review paper incorporates the role of microalgal bioreactive façades (algae powered buildings) in the simultaneous mitigation of environment and energy production, contributing to green cities. Since the importance of Urban Green Space (UGS) is imperative for green cities, its functions and role during the critical period of the pandemic are also explained together with the efficient and viable biofoundry approach of converting algal blooms in urban water bodies to energy and useful products.
Strategies to Promote Greenery in Urban Boundary Wall Facades: A Case Study in Residential Areas of Colombo district, Sri Lanka
Authors: Madushanka W.C.M.S. , Samarasekara G.N. , Ellawala K.C.
Published: September 2022

Understanding the public perceptions towards green infrastructure can be instrumental in identifying effective strategies for greening.  This research focuses on the less exploited green boundary walls among the different green infrastructure options. A questionnaire survey was conducted among three hundred twenty-eight residents in residential areas of Colombo district, Sri Lanka, to understand the public perceptions that affect green urban boundary walls. Using Likert scales, participants expressed their perception of benefits and challenges related to greening boundary walls along with socio-economic data. Relaxation effects, improvement of aesthetic appearance, becoming close to nature, and improving air quality were among the highest-rated benefits. Lack of knowledge and time and money requirement was identified as significant challenges. Misconceptions about property damages and nuisance to the owner are demotivators for nearly 38% of the sample as determined by the cluster analysis. Interventions such as providing relevant knowledge on methods of green wall construction and maintenance methods and subsidies can be recommended. Raising awareness through pilot programs and opportunities for experience sharing may motivate people towards greening boundary walls. The study concludes with strategies applicable in motivating residents towards greening their boundary walls.
Exploring the prospects of Homestays in Indian Tourism and Hospitality Industry as an Alternate Preference for Stay.
Authors: Dash Shanta Pragyan
Published: September 2022

Homestays refers to locations for the tourist attraction of sites that may be on beaches, mountains, lakes or homes, typically places of scenic beauty. Three aspects: operation, amenities and attractions are the main attributes of homestays. Closeness to local culture further enhances guest satisfaction, helping to retain the rich heritage of the region. Domestic resources and natural habitats are used to promote sustainable tourism. Therefore, the promotion of tourism depends primarily on active private sector involvement and societies playing a beneficial role. The past researches on homestays lack the various attributes that plays a significant role towards guest experience in homestay and how they create a significant impact on their overall satisfaction.This paper focuses on understanding the concept of Homestays in Tourism and the various factors affecting its overall satisfaction through guest experience during holiday homestays. A field survey was conducted along the coastal belts to understand the guest preference, their cultural experience and their satisfaction level during the duration of their visit. It also analyzes the relationship and impact between overall tourist satisfaction and residence quality of homestays. This helps all stakeholders create sustainable tourism strategies, including host tourism. The outcome of the research is to explore the perception of tourist satisfaction with India during vacation homestays. Recommendations were made for further enhancement of Homestays' based on the findings.
THRIFTY: a novel high‐throughput method for rapid fibre type identification of isolated skeletal muscle fibres
Authors: Horwath Oscar , Edman Sebastian , Andersson Alva , Larsen Filip J. , Apró William
Published: September 2022

Fibre type‐specific analyses are required for broader understanding of muscle physiology, but such analyses are difficult to conduct due to the extreme time requirements of dissecting and fibre typing individual fibres. Investigations are often confined to a small number of fibres from few participants with low representativeness of the entire fibre population and the participant population. To increase the feasibility of conducting large‐scale fibre type‐specific studies, a valid and rapid method for high‐throughput fibre typing of individually dissected fibres was developed and named THRIFTY (for high‐THRoughput Immunofluorescence Fibre TYping). Employing THRIFTY, 400 fibre segments were fixed onto microscope slides with a pre‐printed coordinated grid system, probed with antibodies against myosin heavy chain (MyHC)‐I and MyHC‐II and classified using a fluorescence microscope. The validity and speed of THRIFTY was compared to a previously validated protocol (dot blot) on a fibre‐to‐fibre basis. Fibre pool purity was evaluated using ‘gold standard’ SDS‐PAGE and silver staining. A modified THRIFTY‐protocol using fluorescence western blot equipment was also validated. THRIFTY displayed excellent agreement with the dot blot protocol, κ = 0.955 (95% CI: 0.928, 0.982), P < 0.001. Both the original and modified THRIFTY protocols generated type I and type II fibre pools of absolute purity. Using THRIFTY, 400 fibres were typed just under 11 h, which was approximately 3 times faster than dot blot. THRIFTY is a novel and valid method with high versatility for very rapid fibre typing of individual fibres. THRIFTY can therefore facilitate the generation of large fibre pools for more extensive mechanistic studies into skeletal muscle physiology.

image

Key points

Skeletal muscle is composed of different fibre types, each with distinct physiological properties.

To fully understand how skeletal muscle adapts to external cues such as exercise, nutrition and ageing, fibre type‐specific investigations are required.

Such investigations are very difficult to conduct due to the extreme time requirements related to classifying individually isolated muscle fibres.

To bypass this issue, we have developed a rapid and reliable method named THRIFTY which is cheap as well as versatile and which can easily be implemented in most laboratories.

THRIFTY increases the feasibility of conducting larger fibre type‐specific studies and enables time‐sensitive assays where measurements need to be carried out in close connection with tissue sampling.

By using THRIFTY, new insights into fibre type‐specific muscle physiology can be gained which may have broad implications in health and disease.
Nonlinear Dynamics of Turbine Generator Shaft Trains: Evaluation of Bifurcation Sets Applying Numerical Continuation
Authors: Gavalas Ioannis , Chasalevris Athanasios
Published: September 2022

The nonlinear dynamics of turbine generator shaft trains for power generation are investigated in this paper. Realistic models of rotors, pedestals, and nonlinear bearings of partial arc and lemon bore configuration are implemented to compose a nonlinear set of differential equations for autonomous (balanced) and nonautonomous (unbalanced—per ISO) cases. The solution branches of the dynamic system are evaluated with the pseudo-arc length continuation programed by the authors, and the respective limit cycles are evaluated by an orthogonal collocation method and investigated on their stability properties and quality of motion for the respective key design parameters for the rotor dynamic design of such systems, namely, bearing profile and respective pad length, preload and offset, pedestal stiffness and elevation (misalignment), and rotor slenderness. Model order reduction is applied to the finite element rotor model and the reduced system is validated in terms of unbalanced response and stability characteristics. The main conclusion of the current investigation is that the system has the potential to develop instabilities at rotating speeds lower than the threshold speed of instability (evaluated by the linear approach) for specific unbalance magnitude and design properties. Unbalance response (with stable and unstable branches) is evaluated in severely reduced time compared to this applying time integration methods, enabling nonlinear rotor dynamic design of such systems as a standard procedure, and revealing the complete potential of motions (not only local).
Large Eddy Simulation on the Cavitation Flow and Noise Characteristics of a NACA0009 Hydrofoil With Different Tip Clearance Sizes
Authors: Wang Xinlong , Zhang Jinsong , Huang Zhenwei , Wang Lucai , Li Wei , Lan Guohui
Published: September 2022

All hydraulic machinery has a tip clearance, which not only produces tip-leakage vortexes (TLVs), but also reduces the energy performance of the machinery. In addition, tip clearance leads to cavitation and attendant vibration and noise. Therefore, investigating tip-leakage cavitating flow and noise characteristics is of great practical importance. In this paper, the energy performance and noise characteristics of NACA0009 hydrofoils with different tip clearance sizes are studied. A large eddy simulation model and Schnerr–Sauer cavitation model are employed to simulate tip-leakage cavitating flow. Additionally, a broadband noise source model and the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings (FW–H) equation are used to calculate the noise source and far-field radiated noise characteristics, respectively. Results show that the numerical simulation of cavitation vortex and velocity field is in good agreement with the experimental data, illuminating the characteristics of energy performance, flow pattern, cavitation flow, broadband noise source, and near-field and far-field radiated noise. Compared with the original NACA0009 hydrofoil, the tip clearance reduces the noise of the Curle dipole on the hydrofoil surface and Proudman noise around the hydrofoil. Moreover, study of the far-field noise shows that the directivity curve of the overall sound pressure level (SPL) is distributed in a butterfly shape, symmetrically. Evidently, the tip clearance size has a large impact on the energy performance of the hydrofoil, the intensity of the TLV, and the cavitation. This paper lays a solid foundation for further research on cavitation flow in large-scale hydraulic machinery.
The Importance of Morphology in Further Unraveling the Bumblebee Flight Paradox
Authors: Shah Munjal , Battaglia Francine , Bayandor Javid
Published: September 2022

The size of a bumblebee relative to its wing span would suggest that flight is not possible according to the conventional aerodynamic theories, yet nature shows that not to be true, hence the bumblebee paradox. Bumblebee wings have venations that create corrugations, with their forewing and hindwing connected with a hook-like structure, known as a hamulus. Previous investigations of bumblebee flight modeled wings as smooth surfaces or neglected their accurate morphological representation of corrugation or used a simplified body. To address these shortcomings, this work explores the significance of vein corrugation and body on lift and thrust, and morphological importance of hindwing and forewing in flapping flight. Computational fluid dynamics simulations were used to analyze an anatomically accurate bee wing and body for hovering and forward speeds. Flow analysis of corrugated and smooth wing models revealed that corrugation significantly enhanced lift by 14%. With increasing speed, the hindwing increased lift from 14% to 38% due to the combined camber created by the forewing and hindwing. A notable feature was that the leading edge vortex did not change in size when the hindwing was removed, therefore forewing pressure remained the same as when coupled with hindwing during downstroke. When the bee body was included in the model, the pressure decreased locally between the wing root to 25% of the wingspan on the dorsal side, causing lift for the corrugated model to increase by 11%. The study demonstrates the importance of accurately modeling wing corrugation and bee body in flapping flight aerodynamics to unravel the true load-lifting capacity of bumblebees.
Acoustic correlates and listener ratings of function word reduction in child versus adult speech
Authors: Redford Melissa A. , Howson Phil J.
Published: September 2022

The present study investigated “the” reduction in phrase-medial Verb-the-Noun sequences elicited from 5-year-old children and young adults (18–22 yr). Several measures of reduction were calculated based on acoustic measurement of these sequences. Analyses on the measures indicated that the determiner vowel was reduced in both child and adult speech relative to content word vowels, but it was reduced less in child speech compared to adult speech. Listener ratings on the sequences indicated a preference for adult speech over children's speech. Acoustic measures of reduction also predicted goodness ratings. Listeners preferred sequences with shorter and lower amplitude determiner vowels relative to content word vowels. They also preferred a more neutral schwa over more coarticulated versions. In sequences where ratings differed by age group, the effect of coarticulation was limited to adult speech and the effect of relative schwa duration was limited to child speech. The results are discussed with reference to communicative pressures on speech, including the rhythmic and semantic pressures towards reduction versus the pressure to convey adequate information in the acoustic signal. It is argued that these competing pressures on production may delay the acquisition of adult-like function word reduction.
Evaluating automatic creaky voice detection methods
Authors: White Hannah , Penney Joshua , Gibson Andy , Szakay Anita , Cox Felicity
Published: September 2022

There is growing interest in research on the non-modal voice quality, creaky voice; however, its identification often relies on time-consuming manual annotation, leading to a recent focus on automatic creak detection methods. Various automatic methods have been proposed, which rely on varying types and combinations of acoustic cues for creak detection. In this paper, we compare the performance of three automatic tools, the AntiMode method, the Creak Detector algorithm, and the Roughness algorithm, against manual annotation of creak using data from 80 Australian English speakers. We explore the possibility that tools used in combination may yield more accurate creak detection than individual tools used alone. Based on method comparisons, we present options for researchers, including an “out-of-the-box” approach, which supports combining automatic tools, and propose additional steps to further improve creak detection. We found restricting analysis to sonorant segments significantly improves automatic creak detection, and tools performed consistently better on female speech than male speech. Findings support previous work showing detection may be optimised by performing a creak probability threshold sweep on a subset of data prior to applying the Creak Detector algorithm on new datasets. Results provide promising solutions for advancing efficient large-scale research on creaky voice.
Level differences impact the fusion of concurrent vowels dissimilarly within versus across ears
Authors: Fan Langchen , Reiss Lina A. J. , Molis Michelle R.
Published: September 2022

This study investigated how level differences affect the fusion and identification of dichotically and monaurally presented concurrent vowel pairs where the vowels differed in level by 0, 4, 8, or 12 dB. With dichotic presentation, there was minimal variation in fusion and identification—vowels were nearly always fused and were identified consistently across level differences. Conversely, with monaural presentation, fusion and identification varied systematically across level differences—with the more intense vowel dominating fused percepts. The dissimilar effect of level difference for dichotic versus monaural presentation may arise from differences in energetic masking and/or divergent mechanisms underlying sound segregation and integration.
Relative Handgrip Strength and Incidence of Hypertension: A Case-Cohort Study From Ravansar Non-Communicable Diseases Cohort
Authors: Najafi Farid , Darbandi Mitra , Rezaeian Shahab , Hamzeh Behrooz , Moradinazar Mehdi , Shakiba Ebrahim , Pasdar Yahya
Published: September 2022

Background: The present study assessed the association between relative handgrip strength (RHGS) and hypertension incidence in healthy adults. Methods: We performed a case-cohort study on 3784 participants from Ravansar Non-Communicable Diseases cohort study. The absolute HGS was measured using a digital dynamometer. Hypertension was defined as systolic/diastolic blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg and/or use of antihypertensive medications. Cox regression analysis was utilized to estimate hazard ratios of incident hypertension events with RHGS. Results: Physical activity was significantly higher in the participants with hypertension compared with nonhypertensive participants (P < .001). High-level physical activity in the subjects with lower, middle, and upper RHGS was 19.6%, 33.1%, and 47.3%, respectively (P < .001). RHGS was significantly higher in individuals with greater skeletal muscle mass (P < .001). The men and women with the upper RHGS, had an 80% (hazard ratio: 0.2; 95% confidence interval, 0.1–0.3) and 70% (hazard ratio: 0.3; 95% confidence interval, 0.1–1.2), were lower risk of hypertension compared with those with the lower RHGS, respectively. This association remains significant after adjustment for confounding factors in men. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that middle and upper levels of RHGS were associated with a lower risk of hypertension incidence. RHGS may be a protective factor for hypertension. We suggested muscle strengthening exercises.
Biosignature stability in space enables their use for life detection on Mars
Authors: Baqué Mickael , Backhaus Theresa , Meeßen Joachim , Hanke Franziska , Böttger Ute , Ramkissoon Nisha , Olsson-Francis Karen , Baumgärtner Michael , Billi Daniela , Cassaro Alessia , de la Torre Noetzel Rosa , Demets René , Edwards Howell , Ehrenfreund Pascale , Elsaesser Andreas , Foing Bernard , Foucher Frédéric , Huwe Björn , Joshi Jasmin , Kozyrovska Natalia , Lasch Peter , Lee Natuschka , Leuko Stefan , Onofri Silvano , Ott Sieglinde , Pacelli Claudia , Rabbow Elke , Rothschild Lynn , Schulze-Makuch Dirk , Selbmann Laura , Serrano Paloma , Szewzyk Ulrich , Verseux Cyprien , Wagner Dirk , Westall Frances , Zucconi Laura , de Vera Jean-Pierre P.
Published: September 2022

Two rover missions to Mars aim to detect biomolecules as a sign of extinct or extant life with, among other instruments, Raman spectrometers. However, there are many unknowns about the stability of Raman-detectable biomolecules in the martian environment, clouding the interpretation of the results. To quantify Raman-detectable biomolecule stability, we exposed seven biomolecules for 469 days to a simulated martian environment outside the International Space Station. Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) strongly changed the Raman spectra signals, but only minor change was observed when samples were shielded from UVR. These findings provide support for Mars mission operations searching for biosignatures in the subsurface. This experiment demonstrates the detectability of biomolecules by Raman spectroscopy in Mars regolith analogs after space exposure and lays the groundwork for a consolidated space-proven database of spectroscopy biosignatures in targeted environments.
Prospects of halide-based all-solid-state batteries: From material design to practical application
Authors: Wang Changhong , Liang Jianwen , Kim Jung Tae , Sun Xueliang
Published: September 2022

The safety of lithium-ion batteries has caused notable concerns about their widespread adoption in electric vehicles. A nascent but promising approach to enhancing battery safety is using solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) to develop all-solid-state batteries, which exhibit unrivaled safety and superior energy density. A new family of SSEs based on halogen chemistry has recently gained renewed interest because of their high ionic conductivity, high-voltage stability, good deformability, and cost-effective and scalable synthesis routes. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of halide SSEs concerning their crystal structures, ion transport kinetics, and viability for mass production. Furthermore, their moisture sensitivity and interfacial challenges are summarized with corresponding effective strategies. Last, halide-based all-solid-state Li-ion and Li-S pouch cells with energy density targets of 400 and 500 Wh kg
−1
are projected to guide future endeavors. This work serves as a comprehensive guideline for developing halide SSEs from material design to practical application.
Pharmacogenomic landscape of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma informs precision oncology therapy
Authors: Gu Ziyue , Yao Yanli , Yang Guizhu , Zhu Guopei , Tian Zhen , Wang Rui , Wu Qi , Wang Yujue , Wu Yaping , Chen Lan , Wang Chong , Gao Jiamin , Kang Xindan , Zhang Jie , Wang Lizhen , Duan Shengzhong , Zhao Zhongming , Zhang Zhiyuan , Sun Shuyang
Published: September 2022

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a common and frequently lethal cancer with few therapeutic options. In particular, there are few effective targeted therapies. Development of highly effective therapeutic strategies tailored to patients with HNSCC remains a pressing challenge. To address this, we present a pharmacogenomic study to facilitate precision treatments for patients with HNSCC. We established a large collection of 56 HNSCC patient-derived cells (PDCs), which recapitulated the molecular features of the original tumors. Pharmacological assessment of HNSCCs was conducted using a three-tiered high-throughput drug screening using 2248 compounds across these PDC models and an additional 18 immortalized cell lines. We integrated genomic, transcriptomic, and pharmacological analysis to predict biomarkers, gene-drug associations, and validated biomarkers. These results supported drug repurposing for multiple HNSCC subtypes, including the JAK2 inhibitor fedratinib, for low
KRT18
–expressing HNSCC cases, and the topoisomerase inhibitor mitoxantrone, for
IL6R
-activated HNSCC cases. Our results demonstrated concordance between susceptibility predictions from the PDCs and the matched patients’ responses to standard clinical medication. Moreover, we identified and experimentally confirmed that high expression of
ITGB1
elicited therapeutic resistance to docetaxel and high
SOD1
expression conferred resistance to afatinib. We further validated
ITGB1
as a predictive biomarker for the efficacy of docetaxel therapy in a phase 2 clinical trial. In summary, our study shows that this HNSCC cell resource, as well as the resulting pharmacogenomic profiles, is effective for biomarker discovery and for guiding precision oncology therapies in HNSCCs.
New Platform for Screening Genetic Libraries at Elevated Temperatures: Biological and Genomic Information and Genetic Tools of Geobacillus thermodenitrificans K1041
Authors: Koyama Kosuke , Mikawa Yui , Nakagawa Shota , Kurashiki Ryota , Ohshiro Takashi , Suzuki Hirokazu
Published: September 2022

Geobacillus thermodenitrificans
K1041 has yet to be fully characterized. Although it is transformable via electroporation, it rarely accepts
Escherichia coli
-derived plasmids.
Staphylococcus lugdunensis Uses the Agr Regulatory System to Resist Killing by Host Innate Immune Effectors
Authors: Chin Denny , Flannagan Ronald S. , Tuffs Stephen W. , Chan Jeremy K. , McCormick John K. , Heinrichs David E.
Published: September 2022

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are frequently commensal bacteria that rarely cause disease in mammals.
Staphylococcus lugdunensis
is an exceptional CoNS that causes disease in humans similar to virulent
Staphylococcus aureus
, but the factors that enhance the virulence of this bacterium remain ill defined. Here, we used random transposon insertion mutagenesis to identify the
agr
quorum sensing system as a regulator of hemolysins in
S. lugdunensis
.
Effective Rapid Diagnosis of Bacterial and Fungal Bloodstream Infections by T2 Magnetic Resonance Technology in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Lucignano Barbara , Cento Valeria , Agosta Marilena , Ambrogi Federico , Albitar-Nehme Sami , Mancinelli Livia , Mattana Giordana , Onori Manuela , Galaverna Federica , Di Chiara Luca , Fragasso Tiziana , Bianchi Roberto , Tortora Francesca , Auriti Cinzia , Dotta Andrea , Cecchetti Corrado , Perdichizzi Salvatore , Raponi Massimiliano , Onetti Muda Andrea , Nerini Molteni Silvia , Villani Alberto , Locatelli Franco , Perno Carlo Federico , Bernaschi Paola
Published: September 2022

Children are prone to bloodstream infections (BSIs), the rapid and accurate diagnosis of which is an unmet clinical need. The T2MR technology is a direct molecular assay for identification of BSI pathogens, which can help to overcome the limits of blood culture (BC) such as diagnostic accuracy, blood volumes required, and turnaround time.
G
1
/S Cell Cycle Induction by Epstein-Barr Virus BORF2 Is Mediated by P53 and APOBEC3B
Authors: Yockteng-Melgar Jaime , Shire Kathy , Cheng Adam Z. , Malik-Soni Natasha , Harris Reuben S. , Frappier Lori
Published: September 2022

In lytic infection, herpesviruses cause cells to arrest at the G
1
/S phase of the cell cycle in order to provide an optimal environment for viral replication; however, the mechanisms involved are not well understood. We have shown that the Epstein-Barr virus BORF2 protein and its homologue in herpes simplex virus 1 both induce G
1
/S, and do this by similar mechanisms which involve binding p53 and APOBEC3B and induction of p53.
A Novel, Fully Spliced, Accessory Gene in Equine Lentivirus with Distinct Rev-Responsive Element
Authors: Zhang Xiangmin , Li Jiwei , Zhang Mengmeng , Bai Bowen , Ma Weiwei , Lin Yuezhi , Guo Xing , Wang Xue-Feng , Wang Xiaojun
Published: September 2022

In lentiviruses, the nuclear export of viral transcripts is an important step in controlling viral gene expression. Generally, the unspliced and incompletely spliced transcripts are exported via the CRM1-dependent export pathway in a process mediated by the viral Rev protein by binding to the Rev-responsive element (RRE) located within the Env-coding region.
Evaluating the Breadth of Neutralizing Antibody Responses Elicited by Infectious Bursal Disease Virus Genogroup A1 Strains Using a Novel Chicken B-Cell Rescue System and Neutralization Assay
Authors: Reddy Vishwanatha R. A. P. , Nazki Salik , Brodrick Andrew J. , Asfor Amin , Urbaniec Joanna , Morris Yasmin , Broadbent Andrew J.
Published: September 2022

There is a need to evaluate the ability of vaccines to neutralize diverse IBDV genogroups and to better understand the relationship between HVR sequence, structure, and antigenicity. Here, we used a chicken B-cell line to rescue a panel of chimeric IBDVs with the HVR from seven diverse IBDV field strains and to conduct neutralization assays and protein modeling.
Bidirectional Interactions between Arboviruses and the Bacterial and Viral Microbiota in Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus
Authors: Shi Chenyan , Beller Leen , Wang Lanjiao , Rosales Rosas Ana , De Coninck Lander , Héry Lyza , Mousson Laurence , Pagès Nonito , Raes Jeroen , Delang Leen , Vega-Rúa Anubis , Failloux Anna-bella , Matthijnssens Jelle
Published: September 2022

In this study, we first utilized the single mosquito microbiome analysis, demonstrating a complex three-way interaction among arboviruses, resident microbiota, and the host, which is distinct for different arbovirus–mosquito combinations. Some of the previously described “core virus” increased in the mosquitos receiving viral blood meal, like Guadeloupe mosquito virus and Guadeloupe Culex tymo-like virus, suggesting their potential roles in ZIKV and WNV infection.
Intestinal Injury Biomarkers Predict Mortality in Pediatric Severe Malaria
Authors: Sarangam Maithri L. , Namazzi Ruth , Datta Dibyadyuti , Bond Caitlin , Vanderpool Charles P. B. , Opoka Robert O. , John Chandy C. , Conroy Andrea L.
Published: September 2022

In children with severe malaria, intestinal injury is a common complication associated with increased mortality. Intestinal injury is associated with acute kidney injury, acidosis, and endothelial activation. Interventions promoting intestinal regeneration and repair represent novel approaches to improve outcomes.
Dual Regulatory Role Exerted by Cyclic Dimeric GMP To Control FsnR-Mediated Bacterial Swimming
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wang Yan , Wu Yao , Yuan Zhi-Hui , Cai Zhen , Qian Wei , Ge Xin , Wang Fang-Fang
Published: September 2022

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
has become a great threat to human health because of the high mortality of infected patients. Swimming motility plays a crucial role in regulating bacterial virulence and adaptation.
Draft Metagenome Sequences of the
Sphagnum
(Peat Moss) Microbiome from Ambient and Warmed Environments across Europe
Authors: Piatkowski Bryan T. , Carper Dana L. , Carrell Alyssa A. , Chen I-Min A. , Clum Alicia , Daum Chris , Eloe-Fadrosh Emiley A. , Gilbert Daniel , Granath Gustaf , Huntemann Marcel , Jawdy Sara S. , Klarenberg Ingeborg Jenneken , Kostka Joel E. , Kyrpides Nikos C. , Lawrence Travis J. , Mukherjee Supratim , Nilsson Mats B. , Palaniappan Krishnaveni , Pelletier Dale A. , Pennacchio Christa , Reddy T. B. K. , Roux Simon , Shaw A. Jonathan , Warshan Denis , Živković Tatjana , Weston David J.
Published: September 2022

We present 49 metagenome assemblies of the microbiome associated with
Sphagnum
(peat moss) collected from ambient, artificially warmed, and geothermally warmed conditions across Europe. These data will enable further research regarding the impact of climate change on plant-microbe symbiosis, ecology, and ecosystem functioning of northern peatland ecosystems.
Conservation of Energetic Pathways for Electroautotrophy in the Uncultivated Candidate Order
Tenderiales
Authors: Eddie Brian J. , Bird Lina J. , Pelikan Claus , Mussmann Marc , Martínez-Pérez Clara , Pinamang Princess , Malanoski Anthony P. , Glaven Sarah M.
Published: September 2022

Chemolithotrophic bacteria capable of extracellular electron uptake to drive energy metabolism and CO
2
fixation are known as electroautotrophs. The recently described order
Tenderiales
contains the uncultivated electroautotroph “
Ca.
Tenderia electrophaga.” The “
Ca.
Tenderia electrophaga” genome contains genes proposed to make up a previously undescribed extracellular electron uptake pathway.
Metabolite Production in
Alkanna tinctoria
Links Plant Development with the Recruitment of Individual Members of Microbiome Thriving at the Root-Soil Interface
Authors: Csorba Cintia , Rodić Nebojša , Zhao Yanyan , Antonielli Livio , Brader Günter , Vlachou Angeliki , Tsiokanos Evangelia , Lalaymia Ismahen , Declerck Stéphane , Papageorgiou Vassilios P. , Assimopoulou Andreana N. , Sessitsch Angela
Published: September 2022

Previous studies have shown that individual, isolated microorganisms may influence secondary metabolism of plants and induce or stimulate the production of medicinally relevant secondary metabolism. Here, we analyzed the microbiome-metabolome linkage of the medicinal plant
Alkanna tinctoria
, which is known to produce valuable compounds, particularly the naphthoquinones alkannin and shikonin and their derivatives.
A Robust, Highly Multiplexed Mass Spectrometry Assay to Identify SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Hernandez Matthew M. , Banu Radhika , Shrestha Paras , Gonzalez-Reiche Ana S. , van de Guchte Adriana , Farrugia Keith , Sebra Robert ,   Mount Sinai PSP Study Group, Gitman Melissa R. , Nowak Michael D. , Cordon-Cardo Carlos , Simon Viviana , van Bakel Harm , Sordillo Emilia Mia , Luna Nicolas , Ramirez Angie , Castañeda Sergio Andres , Patiño Luz Helena , Ballesteros Nathalia , Muñoz Marina , Ramírez Juan David , Paniz-Mondolfi Alberto E. , Alshammary Hala , Amoako Angela A. , Awawda Mahmoud H. , Cognigni Christian , Rooker Aria , Polanco Jose , Sominsky Levy A. , Srivastava Komal , Shi Huanzhi , Cao Liyong , Chen Feng , Zhang Jian , Khalil Zain
Published: September 2022

The continued circulation of SARS-CoV-2 amid limited surveillance efforts and inconsistent vaccination of populations has resulted in the emergence of variants that uniquely impact public health systems. Thus, in conjunction with functional and clinical studies, continuous detection and identification are quintessential to informing diagnostic and public health measures.
Rapid Evaluation of Vaccine Booster Effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Cheng Hoi Lok , Lim Sing Mei , Jia Huan , Chen Ming Wei , Ng Say Yong , Gao Xiaohong , Somani Jyoti , Sengupta Sharmila , Tay Dousabel M. Y. , Chua Patrina W. L. , R. Abirami , Ling Sharon Y. H. , McBee Megan E. , Young Barnaby E. , Sikes Hadley D. , Preiser Peter R.
Published: September 2022

Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 induces protection through production of neutralization antibodies (nAb). The level of nAb is a major indicator of immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
B.1.351 SARS-CoV-2 Variant Exhibits Higher Virulence but Less Viral Shedding than That of the Ancestral Strain in Young Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Bai Yu , He Qian , Yang Jinghuan , Lu Shuaiyao , Mao Qunying , Gao Fan , Bian Lianlian , Zhang Jialu , An Chaoqiang , Liu Jianyang , Wu Xing , Yu Wenhai , Wang Zhongfang , Peng Xiaozhong , Wang Junzhi , Liang Zhenglun , Xu Miao
Published: September 2022

One of the priorities of the current SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and drug research strategy is to determine the changes in transmission ability, virulence, and pathogenic characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 variants. In addition, nonhuman primates (NHPs) are suitable animal models for the study of the pathogenic characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 and could contribute to the understanding of pathogenicity and transmission mechanisms.
Comparative analysis of the health status of military police officers and firefighters: a cross-sectional study in the State of Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Santos Alexandra Ramos dos , Ihlenfeld Mauro Fernando Kürten , Olandoski Márcia , Barreto Fellype Carvalho
Published: September 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the health-condition of military police officers and firefighters. To identify risk factors for not being medically ready for duty.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Data were extracted from medical records during annual periodic health assessments of police officers and firefighters serving with the military police in Paraná, Brazil.

Participants

6621 police officers (5927 men and 694 women) and 1347 firefighters (1257 men and 90 women) who underwent health assessments between July 2018 and June 2019 were analysed. Pregnant women were excluded.

Outcome measures

Data included variables such as sex, age, anthropometric measurements, lifestyle, comorbidities and laboratory tests. Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate the probability of not being medically ready for active duty.

Results

Overall, police officers had worse health status than firefighters and greater prevalence of overweight and obesity, regardless of sex. Musculoskeletal diseases were the most commonly reported disease by police officers and firefighters of both sexes. Among men, hypertension was the second most prevalent disease, followed by psychiatric diseases and dyslipidaemia. Among women, psychiatric diseases were the second most prevalent. Male police officers ≥40 years old presented the highest probability of not being considered ready for duty (40.1%). The probability of male police officers between the ages of 31 and 40 not being ready was similar to that for male firefighters >40 years old. There was a higher chance of not being medically ready professionals with diseases such as diabetes mellitus (OR 2.95, 95% CI 1.97 to 5.03), dyslipidaemia (OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.96 to 3.58), hypertension (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.85 to 4.70), high total cholesterol (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.93 to 2.42), and heart disease (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.32 to 3.45).

Conclusions

There was a high prevalence of chronic diseases and modifiable cardiovascular risk factors among police officers and firefighters. Healthy protective measures should be offered frequently, particularly to police officers at an earlier age.
Pre-emptive oral cholera vaccine (OCV) mass vaccination campaign in Cuamba District, Niassa Province, Mozambique: feasibility, vaccination coverage and delivery costs using CholTool
Authors: Elias Chitio Jucunú J , Baltazar Cynthia S , Langa José Paulo , Baloi Liliana Dengo , Mboane Ramos B J , Manuel José Alberto , Assane Sadate , Omar Alide , Manso Mariana , Capitine Igor , Van Rensburg Craig , Luiz Naira , Mogasale Vittal , Marks Florian , Park Se Eun , Beck Namseon S
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Mozambique suffers from regular floods along its principal river basins and periodic cyclones that resulted in several cholera epidemics during the last decades. Cholera outbreaks in the recent 5 years affected particularly the northern provinces of the country including Nampula and Niassa provinces. A pre-emptive oral cholera vaccine (OCV) mass vaccination campaign was conducted in Cuamba District, Niassa Province, and the feasibility, costs, and vaccination coverage assessed.

Methods

WHO prequalified OCV (Euvichol-Plus), a killed whole-cell bivalent vaccine containingVibrio choleraeO1 (classical and El Tor) and O139, was administered in two doses with a 15-day interval during 7–31 August 2018, targeting around 180 000 people aged above 1 year in Cuamba District. Microplanning, community sensitisation, and training of local public health professionals and field enumerators were conducted. Feasibility and costs of vaccination were assessed using CholTool. Vaccination coverage and barriers were assessed through community surveys.

Results

The administrative coverage of the first and second rounds of the campaign were 98.9% (194 581) and 98.8% (194 325), respectively, based on the available population data that estimated total 196 652 inhabitants in the target area. The vaccination coverage survey exhibited 75.9% (±2.2%) and 68.5% (±3.3%) coverage for the first and second rounds, respectively. Overall, 60.4% (±3.4%) of the target population received full two doses of OCV. Barriers to vaccination included incompatibility between working hours and campaign time. No severe adverse events were notified. The total financial cost per dose delivered was US$0.60 without vaccine cost and US$1.98 including vaccine costs.

Conclusion

The pre-emptive OCV mass vaccination campaign in remote setting in Mozambique was feasible with reasonable full-dose vaccination coverage to confer sufficient herd immunity for at least the next 3 to 5 years. The delivery cost estimate indicates that the OCV campaign is affordable as it is comparable with Gavi’s operational support for vaccination campaigns.
Adductor Strengthening Programme is successfully adopted but frequently modified in Norwegian male professional football teams: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Stensø Joakim , Andersen Thor Einar , Harøy Joar
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Groin injuries represent a substantial problem in male football, with the Adductor Strengthening Programme (ASP) being the only exercise programme demonstrated to significantly reduce the risk of groin problems. We aimed first, to use the Reach Adoption Effectiveness Implementation Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework to investigate attitudes, beliefs and behaviour to the ASP among primary delivery agents of injury prevention exercises in Norwegian male professional football teams. Second, we aimed to identify a real-world application of the ASP protocol used in a professional team setting.

Design

A descriptive cross-sectional survey, using a questionnaire designed to cover all five dimensions of the RE-AIM framework.

Setting

The top two divisions of Norwegian male professional football.

Participants

32 primary injury prevention delivery agents.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primarily, the proportion of respondents being aware of the ASP and its effect; having adopted it; having implemented it as intended; and considering maintaining using it. Secondary, the most often used ASP modifications.

Results

Twenty-nine (91%) participants responded. All (100%) respondents were aware of the ASP and its injury preventive effect. The two most stated reasons for using the ASP were its injury preventive effect and that it does not require equipment. The ASP was adopted by all (100%) delivery agents, but only 10% used it in accordance with the original protocol. The main modifications were that the players in 72% of the teams were instructed to perform a non-progressive number of repetitions during pre-season, and in 86% of the teams instructed to perform more sets, but fewer repetitions per set, during in season. In total, 97% of the delivery agents planned to continue using the ASP.

Conclusion

The delivery agents have positive attitudes and beliefs to the ASP, but they frequently modify it. We identified and reported a real-world application of the ASP protocol.