bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Asians for Black Lives, Not Asians for Asians”: Building Southeast Asian American and Black Solidarity
Authors: Lee Stacey J. , Xiong Choua P. , Pheng Linda M. , Neng Vang Mai
Published: November 2020

This paper explores the possibilities and challenges of building cross‐racial solidarity between Southeast Asian American and Black communities through an ethnographic account of a community‐based educational space (CBES) working with low‐income Southeast Asian American and Black youth. CBESs can play a unique role in teaching youth to engage in anti‐racist work and building cross‐racial coalitions. We argue that attention to challenging anti‐Blackness is central to cross‐racial coalitions but should also recognize the distinct nature of anti‐Asian racism.
Genome‐enabled prediction of reproductive traits in Nellore cattle using parametric models and machine learning methods
Authors: Alves A. A. C. , Espigolan R. , Bresolin T. , Costa R. M. , Fernandes Júnior G. A. , Ventura R. V. , Carvalheiro R. , Albuquerque L. G.
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to assess the predictive ability of different machine learning (ML) methods for genomic prediction of reproductive traits in Nellore cattle. The studied traits were age at first calving (AFC), scrotal circumference (SC), early pregnancy (EP) and stayability (STAY). The numbers of genotyped animals and SNP markers available were 2342 and 321 419 (AFC), 4671 and 309 486 (SC), 2681 and 319 619 (STAY) and 3356 and 319 108 (EP). Predictive ability of support vector regression (SVR), Bayesian regularized artificial neural network (BRANN) and random forest (RF) were compared with results obtained using parametric models (genomic best linear unbiased predictor, GBLUP, and Bayesian least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, BLASSO). A 5‐fold cross‐validation strategy was performed and the average prediction accuracy (ACC) and mean squared errors (MSE) were computed. The ACC was defined as the linear correlation between predicted and observed breeding values for categorical traits (EP and STAY) and as the correlation between predicted and observed adjusted phenotypes divided by the square root of the estimated heritability for continuous traits (AFC and SC). The average ACC varied from low to moderate depending on the trait and model under consideration, ranging between 0.56 and 0.63 (AFC), 0.27 and 0.36 (SC), 0.57 and 0.67 (EP), and 0.52 and 0.62 (STAY). SVR provided slightly better accuracies than the parametric models for all traits, increasing the prediction accuracy for AFC to around 6.3 and 4.8% compared with GBLUP and BLASSO respectively. Likewise, there was an increase of 8.3% for SC, 4.5% for EP and 4.8% for STAY, comparing SVR with both GBLUP and BLASSO. In contrast, the RF and BRANN did not present competitive predictive ability compared with the parametric models. The results indicate that SVR is a suitable method for genome‐enabled prediction of reproductive traits in Nellore cattle. Further, the optimal kernel bandwidth parameter in the SVR model was trait‐dependent, thus, a fine‐tuning for this hyper‐parameter in the training phase is crucial.
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers in cyclodextrin nanoparticle eye drops: Ocular pharmacokinetics and pharmacologic effect on intraocular pressure
Authors: Lorenzo‐Soler Laura , Olafsdottir Olof Birna , Garhöfer Gerhard , Jansook Phatsawee , Kristinsdottir Iris Myrdal , Tan Aimin , Loftsson Thorsteinn , Stefansson Einar
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Orally administered angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) decrease intraocular pressure (IOP). Topical administration may reduce systemic side effects and result in a useful glaucoma drug. The aim of this study is to test the ocular delivery and pharmacologic effect of nanoparticle eye drops containing ARBs (e.g. irbesartan and candesartan).

Methods

1.5% irbesartan and 0.15% candesartan eye drops were applied to rabbits. The pharmacokinetics in cornea and aqueous humour after single eye drop application were studied in 49 rabbits. The effect of the eye drops on IOP was studied in 10 rabbits using an iCare (® TonoVet Plus, iCare, Finland) tonometer and compared with 0.5% timolol eye drops.

Results

Candesartan lowered IOP from 24.6 ± 5.1 mmHg at baseline to 19.0 ± 2.9 mmHg (mean ± SD, p = 0.030, n = 10) 4 hr after application. Irbesartan lowered IOP from 24.2 ± 1.7 mmHg to 20.2 ± 0.9 mmHg (p = 0.14, n = 10). Timolol decreased the IOP from 24.9 ± 4.2 mmHg to 20.4 ± 4.8 mmHg (mean ± SD, p = 0.036, n = 10). The pharmacokinetics data show that both formulations deliver effective amounts of drug into the intraocular tissues, with irbesartan and candesartan reaching concentrations of 121 ± 69 and 30.43 ± 13.93 ng/g (mean ± SD), respectively, in the aqueous humour 3 hr after a single‐dose administration.

Conclusions

Topical application of irbesartan and candesartan eye drops delivers effective drug concentrations to the anterior segment of the eye in rabbits, achieving drug concentrations 100 times above the IC50 for angiotensin II receptor and showing an IOP‐lowering effect. Angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) eye drops have potential as a new class of glaucoma drugs.
Human papillomavirus infection plays a role in conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Ramberg Ingvild , Møller‐Hansen Michael , Toft Peter Bjerre , Funding Mikkel , Heegaard Steffen
Published: November 2020

Purpose

We aimed to study the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia and carcinoma. Furthermore, we aimed to explore whether geographical differences or different detection modalities are associated with the conflicting information regarding HPV and the development of the disease.

Methods

We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE and Scopus databases for studies reporting on HPV and conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia or carcinoma. The pooled prevalence proportions, odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated assuming a random‐effects model. Subgroup analyses and meta‐regression explored possible sources of heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 39 studies were included in the systematic review. The pooled prevalence of HPV in conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia and carcinoma was 26%, with HPV16, 18, and 33 being the most frequently reported genotypes. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection was associated with an increased risk of conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia and carcinoma (OR 8.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.7–19.1); lower in studies from African countries (OR 1.7, 95% CI 0.9–3.5) than other countries (OR 16.1, 95% CI 5.8–44.3), p = 0.013.

Conclusion

Human papillomavirus infection increases the odds of conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia and carcinoma by 8.4 compared to healthy conjunctival mucosa or other ocular surface diseases. There seem to be geographical differences regarding HPV in conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia and carcinoma. HPV16 was the most prevalent genotype, followed by HPV18 and HPV33, meaning that most of the HPV‐related conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia and carcinoma may be prevented by the HPV vaccines that are currently available.
Treatment effect with 2 photorefractive intrastromal cross‐linking protocols in low‐grade myopia through 24‐month follow‐up
Authors: Näslund Sofie , Fredriksson Anneli , Alm Anna , Rehnman Jeannette Beckman , Behndig Anders
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To assess the effect of two high‐oxygen epi‐on PiXL treatments for low‐grade myopia.

Methods

This prospective, randomized, intra‐individually comparing, single‐masked study included 23 healthy volunteers (46 eyes) aged 18–35 years with mild myopia, −0.75 to −2.50 D manifest refractive spherical equivalent (MRSE). One eye was randomized to a 4.0‐mm homogenous treatment zone and the fellow eye to a 4.0‐mm annular zone (16:40 min at 30 mW/cm2, fluence 15 J/cm2). Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), MRSE, best spectacle‐corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), Scheimpflug light scattering depths, mean keratometry (Kmean) and endothelial cell count (ECC) were assessed through 24 months.

Results

Similar improvements in UDVA were seen for the homogeneous and annular protocols at 1 month: −0.52 (−0.59, −0.39) and −0.49 (−0.59, −0.39) logMAR, respectively (medians and interquartile ranges, IQR), p = 0.91, and MRSE: +1.0 D (0.94, 1.31) and +1.0 D (0.69, 1.25), p = 0.17. Light scattering depths were 496 (465, 527) and 349 (247, 378) µm, respectively, and the reduction in mean keratometry was −0.8 D (−1.1, −0.7) and 0 D (−0.1, 0.1), p < 0.001. The treatment effect remained stable throughout 24 months. At 1 week, the participants reported less ocular discomfort with the annular protocol. No reductions were seen in BSCVA or ECC. No adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

PiXL can reduce low‐grade myopia and improve uncorrected vision in healthy eyes. The initial ocular discomfort may be reduced with an annular treatment zone. Further studies are needed to optimize PiXL treatment parameters.
Association between ocular biometrical parameters and diabetic retinopathy in Chinese adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wang Lanhua , Liu Sen , Wang Wei , He Miao , Mo Zhiyin , Gong Xia , Xiong Kun , Li Yuting , Huang Wenyong
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The influence of myopia and ocular biometry parameters on diabetic retinopathy (DR) needs further clarification. We aimed to investigate the association between ocular biometrical parameters and DR in Chinese people with diabetes mellitus (DM) without any ocular intervention.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study recruited type 2 DM patients with no history of ocular treatment in Guangzhou, China. The ocular biometrical parameters were obtained by Lenstar (LS900, Haag‐Streit AG, Koeniz, Switzerland), including corneal diameter, central corneal thickness (CCT), corneal curvature (CC), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT) and axial length (AL). The lens power and axial length‐to‐cornea radius ratio (AL/CR ratio) were calculated. Spherical equivalent (SE) was determined by auto‐refraction after pupil dilation. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the associations of ocular biometry with any DR and vision threatening DR (VTDR).

Results

A total of 1838 patients were included in the final analysis, involving 1455 (79.2%) patients without DR and 383(20.8%) patients with DR. After adjusting confounding factors, any DR was independently associated with AL (odds ratio (OR) 0.84 per 1 mm increase, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.74, 0.94) and AL/CR ratio (OR 0.26 per 1 increase, 95%CI: 0.10, 0.70). Similarly, the presence of VTDR was independently related to AL (OR 0.67 per 1 mm increase, 95%CI: 0.54, 0.85) and AL/CR ratio (OR 0.04 per 1 increase, 95%CI: 0.01, 0.25). The lens power may not be significantly correlated with presence of any DR or VTDR. The CC, corneal diameter and refractive status were not significantly correlated with presence of DR or VTDR.

Conclusion

Longer AL and higher AL/CR ratio may be protective factors against the occurrence and progression of DR. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to verify if refractive status and AL‐associated parameters contribute to the occurrence and progression of DR in type 2 DM.
Therapeutic drug monitoring of anti‐tumour necrosis factor‐α agents in inflammatory bowel disease: Limits and improvements
Authors: Giráldez‐Montero José María , Gonzalez‐Lopez Jaime , Campos‐Toimil Manuel , Lamas‐Díaz María Jesús
Published: November 2020

Aims

Since the publication of the American Gastroenterological Association's recommendations in 2017, there have been no significant changes in the biological monitoring recommendations in inflammatory bowel disease. Possible limitations are the lack of evidence to recommend proactive therapeutic drug monitoring (pTDM) over reactive TDM (rTDM), and the limited information about individualized dosing methods. This article aims to review the TDM strategy updates and the use of individualized dosing methods.

Methods

For the analysis of the TDM strategies and individualized dosing method, a search was carried out in PubMed and Cochrane Central. In the TDM case, since August 2017.

Results

A total of 263 publications were found, but only 7 related to proactive TDM. Five of these publications directly compared pTDM vs rTDM and 2 were randomized clinical trials. Six studies found benefits of pTDM and 1 found no differences. Regarding the individualized dosing method, 229 distinct results were found. Population pharmacokinetics was the most widely used method to develop individual dosage models and to analyse the influence of factors on drug concentrations (albumin concentration, weight, presence of anti‐drug antibodies etc).

Conclusion

We have found no major changes in TDM strategies. There is a growing trend towards the use of pTDM because it has shown a longer duration of treatment response, lower rates of discontinuation and relapses. However, the available evidence is limited and of low quality. Despite the common use of population pharmacokinetic methods to analyse pharmacokinetic factors, they are not commonly used for personalized dosing.
A synthesis of knowledge about motives for participation in perpetual conservation easements
Authors: Kemink Kaylan M. , Adams Vanessa M. , Pressey Robert L. , Walker Johann A.
Published: November 2020

Perpetual conservation easements are a popular method in some countries for addressing conservation goals. Landowner participation plays a key role in the development of these agreements. Despite the importance of involvement by landowners, no recent efforts have been made to synthesize information about the motivations for participation in perpetual easement programs. As a result, the literature lacks a framework to guide future case studies that would facilitate comparisons and generalizations. To this end, we reviewed 43 studies that investigated individual motivations to participate in perpetual conservation easements, and categorized motivations using Ostrom's social–ecological framework. We identified a strong tendency among studies to focus only on local‐scale processes involving landowners, with little consideration of broader‐scale influences. We also highlight several cross‐study trends and gaps in the literature where future research would prove valuable.
Current understanding and future implications of sepsis‐induced thrombocytopenia
Authors: Ghimire Subash , Ravi Swapna , Budhathoki Rasmita , Arjyal Lubina , Hamal Savyata , Bista Amir , Khadka Sushmita , Uprety Dipesh
Published: November 2020

Sepsis is a global health burden that needs intensive medical care. Thrombocytopenia in sepsis is well known to increase morbidity as well as mortality. Several studies have been performed both in animal models and in humans to understand the mechanism by which sepsis causes thrombocytopenia. Recent studies have shown that inhibiting thrombocytopenia improves outcomes in sepsis patients. Understanding these mechanisms to identify targets in use of newer treatment modalities besides using resuscitation measures, antibiotics and removal of thrombocytopenia inducing agent could potentially help us improve outcomes in sepsis.
Writing grief, breathing hope
Authors: Kivinen Nina
Published: November 2020

This is an essay in three parts on writing differently, on grief and on breathing. The first part I wrote in one go, embodied and raw. The second part was written over two months, reflecting on my earlier words. The third part argues for the importance of writing differently. I write for hope. Hope is to voice that which has remained silent. Hope is to recognise the full human experience both in our research, our teaching and in our universities. Hope is the creation of different encounters, of momentary affective spaces with the potentiality of alternative endings.
Implicit and explicit fat bias among adolescents from two US populations varying by obesity prevalence
Authors: Cullin Jennifer M.
Published: November 2020

Background

Research shows that explicit (reported) and implicit (unconscious) bias are distinct constructs varying by socioecological context. Implicit bias better predicts poor health outcomes related to chronic psychosocial stress.

Objectives

Variation in fat bias was identified in two populations of adolescents in Indiana counties with relatively high (Lawrence) and low (Monroe) obesity prevalence.

Methods

Adolescents (n = 185) aged 14‐18 years were recruited October 2017‐2018. Explicit fat bias was measured using the Attitudes Towards Obese Persons (ATOP) scale. Implicit fat bias was measured using the obesity attitude implicit association test (IAT).

Results

Both samples scored high on the ATOP, indicating more positive reported attitudes towards persons with obesity, and scores did not differ between counties (P > .05) after adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, and BMI‐for‐age percentile. Both samples demonstrated unconscious anti‐fat bias, with Monroe exhibiting significantly higher IAT scores (ie, greater anti‐fat bias) than Lawrence after controlling for confounders (P = .039).

Conclusion

Differences between explicit and implicit fat‐bias were observed. Both samples reported positive attitudes towards obesity but also demonstrated unconscious anti‐fat bias. Unconscious anti‐fat bias was significantly higher in the county with lower prevalence of obesity, suggesting epidemiological context may influence implicit fat bias. Higher obesity prevalence may reduce unconscious anti‐fat bias in a population or, alternatively, lower obesity prevalence may increase such bias.
Sept ans après le Rana Plaza: des initiatives transnationales novatrices et l'ébauche d'un nouveau traité
Authors: TREBILCOCK Anne
Published: November 2020

Après le drame du Rana Plaza, plusieurs initiatives intéressantes ont fait évoluer le droit transnational du travail. Certaines, soutenues par l'OIT, ont été plutôt efficaces, sans toutefois parvenir à transformer durablement le secteur du prêt‐à‐porter, où les pratiques d'achat des marques mondiales empêchent d'investir dans la sécurité et la santé au travail. Le traité sur les entreprises et les droits de l'homme en cours d'élaboration sous l'égide de l'ONU semble prometteur à cet égard, pour autant qu'il soit associé à un arsenal de mesures publiques et privées à différents niveaux et qu'il tienne compte des enseignements tirés des initiatives prises depuis la catastrophe.
Foster father identity: A theoretical framework
Authors: Mallette Jacquelyn K. , Richardson Evin W. , Futris Ted G.
Published: November 2020

Foster fathers, who care for and have a unique opportunity to positively influence the at‐risk children who are placed in their home, may struggle to establish a salient foster father identity due to a lack of societal clarity about their role and conflicting views about their importance within the child welfare system. However, we lack theoretical and empirical knowledge on foster fathering. Thus, a nuanced conceptual understanding of the factors and processes that influence the development of foster father identity, which influences the health and involvement of the father–child relationship, would provide insight into supporting foster fathers in establishing healthy, involved relationships with foster children. In this article, we summarize the existing literature on fatherhood and father identity in general; introduce a theoretical framework describing the unique role, identity, and experiences of foster fathers in the United States; and propose recommendations and implications for future research.
Predicting In‐Hospital Mortality in COVID‐19 Older Patients with Specifically Developed Scores
Authors: Covino Marcello , De Matteis Giuseppe , Burzo Maria Livia , Russo Andrea , Forte Evelina , Carnicelli Annamaria , Piccioni Andrea , Simeoni Benedetta , Gasbarrini Antonio , Franceschi Francesco , Sandroni Claudio ,   GEMELLI AGAINST COVID‐19 Group
Published: November 2020

Background/Objectives

Several scoring systems have been specifically developed for risk stratification in COVID‐19 patients.

Design

We compared, in a cohort of confirmed COVID‐19 older patients, three specifically developed scores with a previously established early warning score. Main endpoint was all causes in‐hospital death.

Setting

This is a single‐center, retrospective observational study, conducted in the Emergency Department (ED) of an urban teaching hospital, referral center for COVID‐19.

Participants

We reviewed the clinical records of the confirmed COVID‐19 patients aged 60 years or more consecutively admitted to our ED over a 6‐week period (March 1st to April 15th, 2020). A total of 210 patients, aged between 60 and 98 years were included in the study cohort.

Measurements

International Severe Acute Respiratory Infection Consortium Clinical Characterization Protocol‐Coronavirus Clinical Characterization Consortium (ISARIC‐4C) score, COVID‐GRAM Critical Illness Risk Score (COVID‐GRAM), quick COVID‐19 Severity Index (qCSI), National Early Warning Score (NEWS).

Results

Median age was 74 (67–82) and 133 (63.3%) were males. Globally, 42 patients (20.0%) deceased. All the score evaluated showed a fairly good predictive value with respect to in‐hospital death. The ISARIC‐4C score had the highest area under ROC curve (AUROC) 0.799 (0.738–0.851), followed by the COVID‐GRAM 0.785 (0.723–0.838), NEWS 0.764 (0.700–0.819), and qCSI 0.749 (0.685–0.806). However, these differences were not statistical significant.

Conclusion

Among the evaluated scores, the ISARIC‐4C and the COVID‐GRAM, calculated at ED admission, had the best performance, although the qCSI had similar efficacy by evaluating only three items. However, the NEWS, already widely validated in clinical practice, had a similar performance and could be appropriate for older patients with COVID‐19.
The Relationship Between Team Deep‐Level Diversity and Team Performance: A Meta‐Analysis of the Main Effect, Moderators, and Mediating Mechanisms
Authors: Triana María del Carmen , Kim Kwanghyun , Byun Seo‐Young , Delgado Dora María , Arthur Winfred
Published: November 2020

To reconcile the inconsistencies and complexities in the relationship between team diversity and performance, our meta‐analysis takes a more nuanced approach to the relationship between team deep‐level diversity and team performance. We examine the type of deep‐level diversity (personality, values, culture), task complexity, and executive team status as moderators of the relationship between team deep‐level diversity and positive emergent states, positive team processes, and team conflict. In addition, we examine the mediating role of positive team emergent states, positive team processes, and team conflict in explaining how team deep‐level diversity relates to team performance. We test our hypotheses with a meta‐analytic database of 94 papers reporting 280 effect sizes based on 24,425 teams. Findings show that team deep‐level diversity is associated with fewer positive emergent states and positive team processes and more team conflict. There is an indirect relationship between team deep‐level diversity and team performance through each of the mediators: positive emergent states, positive team processes, and team conflict. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Effects of high hydrostatic pressure on color, texture, microstructure, and proteins of the tilapia (Orechromis niloticus) surimi gels
Authors: Lu Wangwei , Qin Yuyue , Ruan Zheng
Published: November 2020

The tilapia (Orechromis niloticus) surimi gels were prepared with high hydrostatic pressure (0, 100, 200, 300, and 400 MPa for 15 min) treatments to investigate the changes in water‐holding capacity, color, gel strength, microstructure, texture, and proteins of the gels. Compared it with cooked gel (40°C/30 min + 90°C/30 min). The whiteness of heat‐induced and HHP‐induced gels were significant (p < .05) higher than that of untreated samples. The gels formed by pressurization were dense and flexible, and formed by cross‐linking based on hydrogen bonding. SDS‐PAGE patterns showed no major change in the actin and tropomyosin protein profiles of gels induced by HHP‐300. Raman spectroscopy confirmed disulfide bonds played an important role in gel formation. A lower intensity ratio observed in HHP‐induced protein supported the tyrosine residues involved in hydrogen bond formation. The changes of secondary structure suggested decreased α‐helix content and increased β‐sheet.
Influence of insulin on the healing of exposed dental pulp after pulp capping: An experimental study in a dog model
Authors: Al‐Anesi Mokhtar A. , Abu‐Seida Ashraf M. , El Ashry Salma H. , Mahran Abeer H. , Abd‐Elhamid Ehab S.
Published: November 2020

Background

This study investigates the influence of insulin on pulp tissue healing after pulp capping in diabetic dogs.

Methods

Diabetes mellitus was induced in four dogs, and their blood glucose levels were adjusted by insulin to normoglycemic level in two dogs (normoglycemic group) and to hyperglycemic level in two dogs (hyperglycemic group). Class V buccal cavities were performed in 15 teeth in each diabetic dog and two normal dogs (control group). The three groups (30 teeth each) were divided according to the capping materials into three subgroups (10 teeth each) including: subgroup A ‐ mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), subgroup B ‐ bioaggregate (BA), and subgroup C ‐ calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2). Each subgroup was divided into two subdivisions according to the evaluation period, subdivision 1: 1 month and subdivision 2: 2 months. Qualitative and quantitative evaluations of the inflammation and dentine bridge formation were assessed histologically.

Results

The hyperglycemic diabetic group exhibited significant higher inflammatory cell count and scores and lower dentine bridge thickness than those of the normoglycemic diabetic and control groups (P < .05). There were no significant differences in these parameters between the normoglycemic diabetic and control groups (P > .05).

Conclusion

Insulin has favourable effects on the pulp tissue healing after pulp capping in diabetic dogs.
Buddhist way of old age and women’s life course in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
Authors: Le Hoang Anh Thu
Published: November 2020

This paper explores the interweaving of Buddhist practice, old age and women's gendered roles in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Given Vietnamese gendered norms that emphasise women's lifelong attachment and responsiblity to their families, this paper shows that Buddhist practice is a way of life in old age for women. Old age is a time in life when one continues to hone relational personhood and negotiate between gendered roles at home and individual self‐cultivating practice. Inspired by Sarah Lamb's (White Saris and Sweet Mangoes: Aging, Gender, and Body in North India. Berkeley: University of California Press; 2000) discussion on entanglement and disentanglement in West Bengali women's old age, this paper shows that Vietnamese women draw on the Buddhist notion of 'karmic debt' to define the boundary of their household duties. With the Buddhist Way, old age is not merely a continuing devotion to the family, it is a time marked by both self‐ and family‐nurturing.
Analyzing 3D hyperspectral TOF-SIMS depth profile data using self-organizing map-relational perspective mapping
Authors: Gardner Wil , Winkler David A. , Ballabio Davide , Muir Benjamin W. , Pigram Paul J.
Published: November 2020

The advantages of applying multivariate analysis to mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) data have been thoroughly demonstrated in recent decades. The identification and visualization of complex relationships between pixels in a hyperspectral data set can provide unique insights into the underlying surface chemistry. It is now recognized that most MSI data contain nonlinear relationships, which has led to increased application of machine learning approaches. Previously, we exemplified the use of the self-organizing map (SOM), a type of artificial neural network, for analyzing time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) hyperspectral images. Recently, we developed a novel methodology, SOM-relational perspective mapping (RPM), which incorporates the algorithm RPM to improve visualization of the SOM for 2D TOF-SIMS images. Here, we use SOM-RPM to characterize and interpret 3D TOF-SIMS depth profile data, voxel-by-voxel. An organic Irganox™ multilayer standard sample was depth profiled using TOF-SIMS, and SOM-RPM was used to create 3D similarity maps of the depth-profiled sample, in which the mass spectral similarity of individual voxels is modeled with color similarity. We used this similarity map to segment the data into spatial features, demonstrating that the unsupervised method meaningfully differentiated between Irganox-3114 and Irganox-1010 nanometer-thin multilayer films. The method also identified unique clusters at the surface associated with environmental exposure and sample degradation. Key fragment ions characteristic of each cluster were identified, tying clusters to their underlying chemistries. SOM-RPM has the demonstrable ability to reduce vast data sets to simple 3D visualizations that can be used for clustering data and visualizing the complex relationships within.
Defining the Antimalarial Activity of Cipargamin in Healthy Volunteers Experimentally Infected with Blood-Stage Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: McCarthy James S. , Abd-Rahman Azrin N. , Collins Katharine A. , Marquart Louise , Griffin Paul , Kümmel Anne , Fuchs Aline , Winnips Cornelis , Mishra Vishal , Csermak-Renner Katalin , Jain J. Prakash , Gandhi Preetam
Published: November 2020

The spiroindolone cipargamin, a new antimalarial compound that inhibits
Plasmodium
ATP4, is currently in clinical development. This study aimed to characterize the antimalarial activity of cipargamin in healthy volunteers experimentally infected with blood-stage
Plasmodium falciparum
.
Industrially Applicable
De Novo
Lager Yeast Hybrids with a Unique Genomic Architecture: Creation and Characterization
Authors: Turgeon Zachari , Sierocinski Thomas , Brimacombe Cedric A. , Jin Yiqiong , Goldhawke Brittany , Swanson Jessica M. , Husnik John I. , Dahabieh Matthew S.
Published: November 2020

All lager beer is produced using two related lager yeast types: group I and group II, which are highly similar, resulting in a lack of strain diversity for lager beer production. To date, approaches for generating new lager yeasts have generated strains possessing undesirable brewing characteristics which render them commercially inviable.
Streptococcus pseudopneumoniae: Use of Whole-Genome Sequences To Validate Species Identification Methods
Authors: Jensen Christian Salgård , Iversen Katrine Højholt , Dargis Rimtas , Shewmaker Patricia , Rasmussen Simon , Christensen Jens Jørgen , Nielsen Xiaohui Chen
Published: November 2020

A correct identification of
Streptococcus pseudopneumoniae
is a prerequisite for investigating the clinical impact of the bacterium. The identification has traditionally relied on phenotypic methods.
Universal Dengue Vaccine Elicits Neutralizing Antibodies against Strains from All Four Dengue Virus Serotypes
Authors: Uno Naoko , Ross Ted M.
Published: November 2020

Dengue virus infects millions of people living in tropical areas of the world. Dengue virus-induced diseases can range from mild to severe with death.
Staphylococcal DNA Repair Is Required for Infection
Authors: Ha Kam Pou , Clarke Rebecca S. , Kim Gyu-Lee , Brittan Jane L. , Rowley Jessica E. , Mavridou Despoina A. I. , Parker Dane , Clarke Thomas B. , Nobbs Angela H. , Edwards Andrew M.
Published: November 2020

To cause infection, bacteria must survive attack by the host immune system. For many bacteria, including the major human pathogen
Staphylococcus aureus
, the greatest threat is posed by neutrophils. These immune cells ingest the invading organisms and try to kill them with a cocktail of chemicals that includes reactive oxygen species (ROS). The ability of
S. aureus
to survive this attack is crucial for the progression of infection. However, it was not clear how the ROS damaged
S. aureus
and how the bacterium repaired this damage. In this work, we show that ROS cause breaks in the staphylococcal DNA, which must be repaired by a two-protein complex known as RexAB; otherwise, the bacterium is killed, and it cannot sustain infection. This provides information on the type of damage that neutrophils cause
S. aureus
and the mechanism by which this damage is repaired, enabling infection.
The Expression of von Willebrand Factor-Binding Protein Determines Joint-Invading Capacity of Staphylococcus aureus, a Core Mechanism of Septic Arthritis
Authors: Na Manli , Hu Zhicheng , Mohammad Majd , Stroparo Mariana do Nascimento , Ali Abukar , Fei Ying , Jarneborn Anders , Verhamme Peter , Schneewind Olaf , Missiakas Dominique , Jin Tao
Published: November 2020

Septic arthritis remains one of the most dangerous joint diseases with a rapidly progressive disease character. Despite advances in the use of antibiotics, permanent reductions in joint function due to joint deformation and deleterious contractures occur in up to 50% of patients with septic arthritis. So far, it is still largely unknown how
S. aureus
initiates and establishes joint infection. Here, we demonstrate that von Willebrand factor-binding protein expressed by
S. aureus
facilitates the initiation of septic arthritis. Such effect might be mediated through its interaction with a host factor (von Willebrand factor). Our finding contributes significantly to the full understanding of septic arthritis etiology and will pave the way for new therapeutic modalities for this devastating disease.
Characterization of Posttranslationally Modified Multidrug Efflux Pumps Reveals an Unexpected Link between Glycosylation and Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Abouelhadid Sherif , Raynes John , Bui Tam , Cuccui Jon , Wren Brendan W.
Published: November 2020

Nearly all bacterial species have at least a single glycosylation system, but the direct effects of these posttranslational protein modifications are unresolved. Glycoproteome-wide analysis of several bacterial pathogens has revealed general glycan modifications of virulence factors and protein assemblies. Using
Campylobacter jejuni
as a model organism, we have studied the role of general
N-
linked glycans in the multidrug efflux pump commonly found in Gram-negative bacteria. We show, for the first time, the direct link between
N
-linked glycans and multidrug efflux pump activity. At the protein level, we demonstrate that
N
-linked glycans play a role in enhancing protein thermostability and mediating the assembly of the multidrug efflux pump to promote antimicrobial resistance, highlighting the importance of this posttranslational modification in bacterial physiology. Similar roles for glycans are expected to be found in other Gram-negative pathogens that possess general protein glycosylation systems.
Structure of the Receptor Binding Domain of EnvP(b)1, an Endogenous Retroviral Envelope Protein Expressed in Human Tissues
Authors: McCarthy Kevin R. , Timpona Joseph L. , Jenni Simon , Bloyet Louis-Marie , Brusic Vesna , Johnson Welkin E. , Whelan Sean P. J. , Robinson-McCarthy Lindsey R.
Published: November 2020

Organisms can access genetic and functional novelty by capturing viral elements within their genomes, where they can evolve to drive new cellular or organismal processes. We demonstrate that a retroviral envelope gene, EnvP(b)1, has been maintained and its fusion activity preserved for 40 to 71 million years. It is expressed as a protein in multiple healthy human tissues. We determined the structure of its inferred receptor binding domain and compared it with the same domain in modern viruses. We found a common conserved architecture that underlies the varied receptor binding activity of divergent Env genes. The modularity and versatility of this domain may underpin the evolutionary success of this clade of fusogens.
Randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of apnoeic oxygenation in adults using low-flow or high-flow nasal cannula with head side elevation versus usual care to prevent desaturation during endotracheal intubation in the emergency department (ApOxED): study protocol
Authors: Waheed Shahan , Kapadia Nazir Najeeb , Khan Muhammad Faisal , Kerai Salima Mansoor , Raheem Ahmed , Naeem Rubaba
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Apnoeic oxygenation is a process of delivering continuous oxygen through nasal cannula during direct laryngoscopy. The oxygen that is delivered through these nasal cannulas is either low flow or high flow. Although the effectiveness of apnoeic oxygenation has been shown through systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials, a comparison of high-flow versus low-flow oxygen delivery has not been tested through a superiority study design. In this study we propose to assess the effectiveness of giving low-flow oxygen with head side elevation versus high-flow oxygen with head side elevation against the usual practice of care in which no oxygen is provided during direct laryngoscopy.

Methods and analysis

This will be a three-arm study instituting a block randomisation technique with a sample size of 46 in each arm (see table 1). Due to the nature of the intervention, no blinding will be introduced. The primary outcomes will be lowest non-invasive oxygen saturation measurement during direct laryngoscopy and during the 2 min after the placement of the tube and the first pass success rate. The intervention constitutes head side elevation up to 30° for improving glottis visualisation together with low-flow or high-flow oxygen delivery through nasal cannula to increase safe apnoea time for participants undergoing endotracheal intubation. Primary analysis will be intention to treat.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by the Ethical Review Committee of Aga Khan University Hospital (2019-0726-2463). The project is an institution University Research Committee grant recipient 192 002ER-PK. The results of the study will be disseminated among participants, patient communities and healthcare professionals in the institution through seminars, presentations and emails. Further, the findings will be published in a highly accessed peer-reviewed medical journal and will be presented at both national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT04242537).
Urban–rural disparity in prevalence of multimorbidity in China: a cross-sectional nationally representative study
Authors: Ma Xiaochen , He Yu , Xu Jin
Published: November 2020

Background

To address the neglect of depression in multimorbidity measurement and the lack of focus on rural population in previous literature about China, this paper aimed to estimate the prevalence of multimorbidity (including depressive disorders) among the country’s rural and urban population.

Methods

We used a cross-sectional design and data from a nationally representative survey conducted in 2015–2016 among Chinese people aged 45 years or older involving 19 656 participants. Multimorbidity was measured with a cut-off point of having two or more among 14 chronic illnesses. In that 13 of them were based on self-reported physician diagnosis. In addition, depressive disorders were assessed with the 10-item Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. The weighted prevalence of multimorbidity was calculated, with a non-response adjustment. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to analyse the relation between covariates and multimorbidity.

Findings

Multimorbidity was highly prevalent (54.3%) among the studied population. Contrary to previous studies, we found the prevalence of multimorbidity to be higher among the rural dwellers (58.3%) than among the urban population (50.4%). After adjustment for covariates, rural residents had 7.5% higher odds (95% CI of OR (1.003 to 1.151)) of having multimorbidity than their urban counterparts. Above 70% of patients with any of the 14 chronic illnesses above 45 years old had multimorbidity, while 80.6%–97.9% of chronic patients had multimorbidity.

Interpretation

Future health system development in China should transform from preventing and controlling non-communicable diseases as individual diseases to addressing people’s comprehensive health needs under multimorbidity. The rural population should be prioritised as they suffered more from multimorbidity than the urban population.
Influence of the month of birth on persistence of ADHD in prospective studies: protocol for an individual patient data meta-analysis
Authors: Gosling Corentin J , Pinabiaux Charlotte , Caparos Serge , Delorme Richard , Cortese Samuele
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with symptoms, especially the hyperactive ones, that tend to decrease in severity with age. Interestingly, children born just before the school-entry cut-off date (ie, the youngest pupils of a classroom) are at higher risk of being diagnosed with ADHD compared with children born just after the cut-off date. Noteworthy, thismonth-of-birtheffect tends to disappear with increasing absolute age. Therefore, it is possible that young children erroneously diagnosed with ADHD due to their month of birth present a lower chance to have their diagnosis confirmed at a later age, artificially reinforcing the low persistence of ADHD across the lifespan. This protocol outlines an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis of prospective observational studies to explore the role of the month of birth in the low persistence of ADHD across the lifespan.

Methods and analysis

Five databases will be systematically searched in order to find prospective observational studies where the presence of ADHD is assessed both at baseline and at a follow-up of at least 4 years. We will use a two-stage IPD meta-analytic approach to estimate the role of the month of birth in the persistence of ADHD. Various sensitivity analyses will be performed to assess the robustness of the results.

Ethics and dissemination

No additional data will be collected and no de-identified raw data will be used. Ethics approval is thus not required for the present study. Results of this IPD meta-analysis will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020212650
Interventions to facilitate return to work in adults with chronic non-malignant pain: a protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Björk Mathilda , Gerdle Björn , Liedberg Gunilla , Svanholm Frida , Solmi Marco , Thompson Trevor , Chaimani Anna , Dragioti Elena
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Work absenteeism due to chronic non-malignant pain (CNMP) is a major societal and individual cause of concern that requires effective treatments.

Objective

We present a protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) aiming to compare available interventions for return to work (RTW) in adults with CNMP.

Methods and analysis

PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Knowledge and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases will be searched till 31 August 2020 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) examining interventions for RTW outcomes among patients with CNMP. Two independent investigators will search the databases, perform data extraction and assess the methodological quality of the selected RCTs. The primary outcome will be RTW, if possible, full-time or part-time after work absence due to chronic pain from baseline to the last available follow-up. Secondary outcomes will include self-reported workability or work capacity, or self-reported physical functioning and quality of life as measured by any validated scale. Pairwise meta-analysis and NMA will be conducted for each outcome using a random-effects model. For the primary outcomes, we will also obtain the ranking of all competing interventions within each NMA using surface under the cumulative ranking curve. The assumption of coherence (ie, that direct and indirect evidence are in statistical agreement) will be examined using both a local and a global approach. We will also conduct subgroup and meta-regression analyses, whenever feasible, to investigate the unexplained variation in effect size. The comparison-adjusted funnel plot will be used to evaluate small-study effects. The overall quality of evidence will be rated with the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis tool. Data analysis will be conducted using Stata V.16.0.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review does not require ethical approval since it will not disseminate any private patient data. The results of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020171429.
Predicting the local COVID-19 outbreak around the world with meteorological conditions: a model-based qualitative study
Authors: Chen Biqing , Liang Hao , Yuan Xiaomin , Hu Yingying , Xu Miao , Zhao Yating , Zhang Binfen , Tian Fang , Zhu Xuejun
Published: November 2020

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the relationship between daily weather and transmission rate of SARS-CoV-2, and to develop a generalised model for future prediction of the COVID-19 spreading rate for a certain area with meteorological factors.

Design

A retrospective, qualitative study.

Methods and analysis

We collected 382 596 records of weather data with four meteorological factors, namely, average temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and air visibility, and 15 192 records of epidemic data with daily new confirmed case counts (1 587 209 confirmed cases in total) in nearly 500 areas worldwide from 20 January 2020 to 9 April 2020. Epidemic data were modelled against weather data to find a model that could best predict the future outbreak.

Results

Significant correlation of the daily new confirmed case count with the weather 3 to 7 days ago were found. SARS-CoV-2 is easy to spread under weather conditions of average temperature at 5 to 15°C, relative humidity at 70% to 80%, wind speed at 1.5 to 4.5 m/s and air visibility less than 10 statute miles. A short-term model with these four meteorological variables was derived to predict the daily increase in COVID-19 cases; and a long-term model using temperature to predict the pandemic in the next week to month was derived. Taken China as a discovery dataset, it was well validated with worldwide data. According to this model, there are five viral transmission patterns, ‘restricted’, ‘controlled’, ‘natural’, ‘tropical’ and ‘southern’. This model’s prediction performance correlates with actual observations best (over 0.9 correlation coefficient) under natural spread mode of SARS-CoV-2 when there is not much human interference such as epidemic control.

Conclusions

This model can be used for prediction of the future outbreak, and illustrating the effect of epidemic control for a certain area.