bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Movement, Music, and Service Learning
Authors: Childers Christine
Published: July 2021

Importance:

Lack of geriatric health care professionals is a growing concern. Negative attitudes toward older adults and aging bias in students can impact quality of care, and lack of evidence-informed practice has been linked to early training. Students must be nurtured to provide quality-appropriate care for older adults.

Objective:

To explore the development of an evidence-based program for older adults, specifically for balance training, to be used with students in a service-learning capacity.

Design Setting, and Participants:

A qualitative case study was conducted with physical and occupational therapy students, led by faculty, engaging in service-learning experiences. Students were from 3 consecutive cohorts attending a health sciences gerontology class. One-third of the students were randomly selected to participate in the developed movement and music workshop at senior centers, assisted living facilities, and memory care units. The remaining students participated in general activities in the same or similar locations. Surveys were completed by the students as well as a reflection paper.

Exposures:

Students participated in a 1-hour movement and music workshop alongside volunteer older adults. The workshop was developed using motivational theories and evidence-based recommendations for balance interventions for older adults.

Main Outcome:

Student surveys demonstrated a progressive ability to recommend advanced balance interventions for older adults. Student surveys and reflective papers showed that the service-learning workshop had specifically enhanced their comprehension of motivation and meaningful activities to push older adults.

Results:

The ability for students to recommend intermediate-level balance activities increased by 15% with a class only, but then advanced activity recommendations improved by 68% in those attending the workshop. Psychosocial aspects only emerged after the workshop. Service learning influenced all students, but concepts of motivation and meaningful activities were more understood by those participating in the movement workshop.

Conclusion and Relevance:

Service learning is an excellent opportunity for faculty to demonstrate to students how to apply evidence-informed interventions in a manner appropriate and motivational for older adults.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging and Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging Assessment of Optic Pathway Function in Patients With Anterior Visual Pathway Compression
Authors: Kang Koung Mi , Choi Eun-Jung , Jung Woojin , Lee Jongho , Choi Seung Hong , Kim Yong Hwy
Published: July 2021

Background:

In patients with sellar or parasellar tumors, it is crucial to evaluate visual field impairment in the preoperative stage and to predict visual field improvement after the surgery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) parameters in the optic radiations with preoperative and postoperative visual field impairment.

Methods:

This prospective study included 81 participants with sellar or parasellar tumors. Multishell diffusion imaging and a visual field impairment score (VFIS) were acquired before and after the surgery. The multishell diffusion-weighted imaging was acquired to measure the neurite density and neurite orientation dispersion, as well as the diffusivity. DTI parameters were fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity, and radial diffusivity (RD). NODDI provided intracellular volume fraction (Vic), the orientation dispersion index, and isotropic volume fraction (Viso). The associations of DTI and NODDI parameters in the optic radiations with VFIS were investigated, adjusting for age, tumor height, and symptom duration.

Results:

Among 162 optic radiations, 117 were functionally impaired in the preoperative stage. FA and Vic had significant negative correlations, whereas MD and RD had significant positive correlations with the VFIS (all P < 0.001). In the preoperative stage, lower FA (P = 0.001; odds ratio = 0.750) and Vic (P = 0.003; OR = 0.827) and higher MD (P = 0.007; OR = 1.244) and RD (P < 0.001; OR = 1.361) were significantly associated with the presence of visual field impairment. For the degree of postoperative improvement, preoperative lower Vic (P = 0.034; OR = 0.910) and higher MD (P = 0.037; OR = 1.103) and RD (P = 0.047; OR = 1.090) were significantly associated with more postoperative improvement.

Conclusions:

DTI and NODDI parameters in the optic radiations were correlated with VFIS and associated with preoperative visual field impairments and postoperative improvement. It may help in predicting visual field improvement after the surgery in patients with sellar or parasellar tumors.
“More Guts Than Brains?”–The Role of Gut Microbiota in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Berkowitz Eran , Kopelman Yael , Kadosh Dana , Carasso Shaqed , Tiosano Beatrice , Kesler Anat , Geva-Zatorsky Naama
Published: July 2021

Background:

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension syndrome (IIH) is most common among obese women. Weight loss is an important factor in improving papilledema. Over the last decade, growing evidence has identified gut microbiota as a potential factor in the pathophysiology of obesity. Accordingly, we investigated whether the gut microbiome is modified in IIH patients compared with healthy controls, and provide possible new treatment venues.

Methods:

Shotgun metagenomic sequencing of the gut microbiome of 25 cases of IIH patients (according to the modified Dandy criteria) and 20 healthy controls. Participants were further stratified according to their body mass index. The total DNA from each sample was extracted using the PureLink Microbiome DNA Purification Kit A29789 (Invitrogen, Thermo Fisher Scientific, US). Library preparation was performed using the Nextera DNA Flex Library Prep Kit. Samples were sequenced on the Illumina Novaseq 6000 device. A list of bacterial species that significantly differed between the IIH patients and healthy controls was produced in addition to species diversity. In addition, patients' cohort alone was analyzed, (excluding the healthy controls), and the effect of acetazolamide treatment on their gut microbiota was analyzed.

Results:

IIH patients have a lower diversity of bacterial species compared with healthy individuals. These bacteria, that is, Lactobacillus ruminis (L. ruminis) (p<6.95E-08), Atopobium parvulum (p<3.9E-03), Megamonas hypermegale (p<5.61E-03), Ruminococcus gnavus (p<1.29E-02), MEL.A1 (p<3.04E-02), and Streptococcus sp. I-G2 (p<3.04E-02), were previously characterized with beneficial health effects. Moreover, we found that Lactobacillus brevis, a beneficial bacterium as well, is more abundant in acetazolamide treated patients (p<7.07E-06).

Conclusions:

Gut microbiota plays a potential role in IIH etiology and therefore, can provide a promising new treatment approach for this disease.
Muriicola soli sp. nov., isolated from soil
Authors: Kang Hye Jeong , Kim Min-Kyeong , Roh Su Gwon , Kim Seung Bum
Published: July 2021

A Gram-stain-negative, oxidase-positive, catalase-positive, aerobic, orange-pigmented, rod-shaped and non-motile bacterium designated strain MMS17-SY002T was isolated from island soil. The isolate grew at 20–37 °C (optimum, 30 °C), at pH 6.0–9.5 (optimum, pH 7) and in the presence of 0.5–4.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 2.0 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain MMS17-SY002T was mostly related to the genus

Muriicola

of the family

Flavobacteriaceae

and had highest sequence similarity of 96.82 % to

Muriicola marianensis

A6B8T and

Muriicola jejuensis

EM44T, but formed a distinct phylogenetic line within the genus. Chemotaxonomic analyses showed that menaquinone 6 was the predominant isoprenoid quinone, the major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 1 G and iso-C15 : 0, and the diagnostic polar lipid was phosphatidylethanolamine. The genomic DNA G+C content was 42.4 mol%. Strain MMS17-SY002T could be distinguished from related species by the combination of trypsin, α-chymotrypsin, acid phosphatase, naphthol-AS-BI-phosphohydrolase, α-galactosidase, β-galactosidase and β-glucosidase activities. The orthologous average nucleotide identity between the genomes of strain MMS17-SY002T and

M. jejuensis

and that between the strain and

M. marianensis

A6B8T were 73.26 and 73.33%, respectively, thus confirming the separation of the strain from related species at species level. Based on the phenotypic, phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic and genomic characterization, MMS17-SY002T should be recognized as a novel species of the genus

Muriicola

, for which the name Muriicola soli sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is MMS17-SY002T (=KCTC 62790T=JCM 32370T).
Corynebacterium phoceense, resident member of the urogenital microbiota?
Authors: Giannattasio-Ferraz Silvia , Ene Adriana , Maskeri Laura , Oliveira Andre Penido , Barbosa-Stancioli Edel F. , Putonti Catherine
Published: July 2021

Corynebacterium phoceenseis a Gram-positive species previously isolated from human urine. Although other species from the same genus have been associated with urinary tract infections,C. phoceenseis currently believed to be a non-pathogenic member of the urogenital microbiota. Prior to our study, only two isolates were described in the literature, and very little is known about the species. Here, we describeC. phoceenseUFMG-H7, the first strain of this species isolated from the urine of healthy cattle. The genome for this isolate was produced and compared to the two other publicly availableC. phoceenseas well as otherCorynebacteriumgenome assemblies. Our in-depth genomic analysis identified four additional publicly available genome assemblies that are representatives of the species, also isolated from the human urogenital tract. Although none of the strains have been associated with symptoms or disease, numerous genes associated with virulence factors are encoded. In contrast to relatedCorynebacteriumspecies andCorynebacteriumspecies from the bovine vaginal tract, allC. phoceensestrains examined code for the SpaD-type pili suggesting adherence is essential for its persistence within the urinary tract. As the otherC. phoceensestrains analysed were isolated from the human urogenital tract, our results suggest that this species may be specific to this niche.
Within and between classroom transmission patterns of seasonal influenza among primary school students in Matsumoto city, Japan
Authors: Endo Akira , Uchida Mitsuo , Hayashi Naoki , Liu Yang , Atkins Katherine E. , Kucharski Adam J. , Funk Sebastian
Published: July 2021

Schools play a central role in the transmission of many respiratory infections. Heterogeneous social contact patterns associated with the social structures of schools (i.e. classes/grades) are likely to influence the within-school transmission dynamics, but data-driven evidence on fine-scale transmission patterns between students has been limited. Using a mathematical model, we analysed a large-scale dataset of seasonal influenza outbreaks in Matsumoto city, Japan to infer social interactions within and between classes/grades from observed transmission patterns. While the relative contribution of within-class and within-grade transmissions to the reproduction number varied with the number of classes per grade, the overall within-school reproduction number, which determines the initial growth of cases and the risk of sustained transmission, was only minimally associated with class sizes and the number of classes per grade. This finding suggests that interventions that change the size and number of classes, e.g. splitting classes and staggered attendance, may have limited effect on the control of school outbreaks. We also found that vaccination and mask-wearing of students were associated with reduced susceptibility (vaccination and mask-wearing) and infectiousness (mask-wearing) and hand washing with increased susceptibility. Our results show how analysis of fine-grained transmission patterns between students can improve understanding of within-school disease dynamics and provide insights into the relative impact of different approaches to outbreak control.

Significance

Empirical evidence on detailed transmission patterns of influenza among students within and between classes and grades and how they are shaped by school population structure (e.g. class and school sizes) has been limited to date. We analysed a detailed dataset of seasonal influenza incidence in 29 primary schools in Japan and found that the reproduction number at school did not show any clear association with the size or the number of classes. Our findings suggest that the interventions that only focus on reducing the number of students in class at any moment in time (e.g. reduced class sizes and staggered attendance) may not be as effective as measures that aim to reduce within-class risk (e.g. mask-wearing and vaccines).
Performance of antigenic detection of SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal samples
Authors: Lunca Catalina , Cojocaru Cristian , Gurzu Irina Luciana , Petrariu Florin Dumitru , Cojocaru Elena
Published: July 2021

Objectives

SARS-CoV-2 virus detection on nasopharyngeal specimens to infected individuals has become a challenge for the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. We aim at comparing the performance of antigenic detection of SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal samples via an immunochromatographic method to molecular detection via qRT-PCR.

Materials and Methods

47 nasopharyngeal exudates were collected from suspicious COVID-19 cases. The samples were performed both via the qualitative immuno-chromatographic method for S protein detection in the SARS-CoV-2 structure, using fluorescent labelled anti-protein S antibodies and via qRT-PCR test for the qualitative detection of the screening gene E and the specific ORF1ab region of the RNA-SARS-CoV-2.

Results

There was a fair correlation between the positive antigen tests and the positive PCR assays measured through threshold cycle ORF1ab region (Ct orf). A better correlation was obtained between the antigen test results and the Ct orf when including patients with Ct orf below 25.

Conclusions

Using antigen tests as screening tests is useful on symptomatic persons during the viral replication period, therefore during the contagious period. A positive test shows a high predictive value for infection, while a negative antigen test result via immuno-chromatography must be confirmed by a qRT-PCR test.
Contamination of personal protective equipment during COVID-19 autopsies
Authors: Brandner Johanna M. , Boor Peter , Borcherding Lukas , Edler Carolin , Gerber Sven , Heinemann Axel , Hilsenbeck Julia , Kasajima Atsuko , Lohner Larissa , Märkl Bruno , Pablik Jessica , Schröder Ann Sophie , Sommer Linna , Slotta-Huspenina Julia , Sperhake Jan-Peter , von Stillfried Saskia , Dintner Sebastian
Published: July 2021

Confronted with an emerging infectious disease, the medical community faced relevant concerns regarding the performance of autopsies of COVID-19 deceased at the beginning of the pandemic. This attitude has changed, and autopsies are now recognized as indispensable tools for elucidating COVID-19; despite this, the true risk of infection for autopsy staff is still debated. To elucidate the rate of SARS-CoV-2 contamination in personal protective equipment (PPE), swabs were taken at nine locations of the PPE of one physician and an assistant each from 11 full autopsies performed at four different centers. Further samples were obtained for three minimally invasive autopsies (MIA) conducted at a fifth center. Lung/bronchus swabs of the deceased served as positive controls. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected by RT-qPCR. In 9/11 full autopsies PPE samples were tested RNA positive with PCR, in total 21% of all PPE samples taken. The main contaminated parts of the PPE were the gloves (64% positive), the aprons (50% positive), and the upper sides of shoes (36% positive) while for example the fronts of safety goggles were only positive in 4.5% of the samples and all face masks were negative. In MIA, viral RNA was observed in one sample from a glove, but not in other swabs. Infectious virus isolation in cell culture was performed in RNA positive swabs from full autopsies. Of all RNA positive PPE samples, 21% of the glove samples were positive for infectious virus taken in 3/11 full autopsies. In conclusion, in >80% of autopsies, PPE was contaminated with viral RNA. In >25% of autopsies, PPE was found to be even contaminated with infectious virus, signifying a potential risk of infection among autopsy staff. Adequate PPE and hygiene measures, including appropriate waste deposition, are therefore mandatory to enable safe work environment.
Comparative effectiveness of different exercises on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Li Yi , Wang Xiaoyi , Zhang Ruishi , Zhu Siyi , Wang Liqiong , Huang Jingming , Gan Xinling , Xie Suhang , Wu Tao , He Chengqi
Published: July 2021

Objective

To compare and rank different exercise interventions on bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women.

Data Sources and Study Selection

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Scopus and Web of Science were searched from database inception to January 2021 of randomized controlled studies investigating the effect of exercise more than six months on BMD in postmenopausal women.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Data at baseline and post intervention (or the change from baseline) were extracted. A Bayesian random-effects network meta-analysis was performed.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the change of BMD (at lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip) from baseline values. Effect size measures were mean differences with 95% credible intervals (CrIs).

Results

We identified 3324 citations and included 66 studies with a total number of 4336 participants. Associated with BMD at lumbar spine (LS) improve were found for multicomponent exercise, resistance training, mind body exercise, lower impact exercise, high impact exercise, and whole body vibration. With regard to femoral neck (FN), only multicomponent exercise, whole body vibration, and mind body exercise were effective. As for total hip (TH), only multicomponent exercise, resistance training, and flexibility exercise were found to be beneficial. Moreover, no matter the age of postmenopausal women, and the duration of intervention (range between 6 to 18 months), some certain kinds of exercise could be performed to improve BMD at LS and FN.

Conclusions and Relevance

This NMA confirms that exercise therapy has clear benefits on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. It also shows that the magnitude of effect varies depending on the outcome of interest, the age of participants, and the duration of intervention. Clinicians might consult the ranking of the exercise intervention presented in this study, when designating an optimal, individualized exercise prescription to improve BMD.
Patterns of SARS-CoV-2 exposure and mortality suggest endemic infections, in addition to space and population factors, shape dynamics across countries
Authors: Fountain-Jones Nicholas M. , Yates Luke , Flies Emily , Flies Andrew , Carver Scott , Charleston Michael
Published: July 2021

Some countries have been crippled by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic while others have emerged with few infections and fatalities; the factors underscoring this macro-epidemiological variation is one of the mysteries of this global catastrophe. Variation in immune responses influence SARS-CoV-2 transmission and mortality, and factors shaping this variation at the country level, in addition to other socio-ecological drivers, may be important. Here, we construct spatially explicit Bayesian models that combine data on prevalence of endemic diseases and other socio-ecological characteristics to quantify patterns of confirmed deaths and cases across the globe before mass vaccination. We find that the prevalence of parasitic worms, human immunodeficiency virus and malaria play a surprisingly important role in predicting country-level SARS-CoV-2 patterns. When combined with factors such as population density, our models predict 63% (56-67) and 76% (69-81) of confirmed cases and deaths among countries, respectively. While our findings at this macro-scale are necessarily associative, they highlight a need for studies to consider factors, such as infection by other pathogens, on global SARS-CoV-2 dynamics. These relationships are vital for developing countries that already have the highest burden of endemic disease and are becoming the most affected by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
MODERN CONTRACEPTIVE USE AMONG WOMEN IN ZAMBIA: A DESCRIPTIVE SURVEY
Authors: Mwansa Chilambwe Jully , Chipokoso Tyson , Mwansa Melvin , Zambwe Mowa
Published: July 2021

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the modern contraceptive use by women of childbearing age in Zambia.

METHODS

The study was retrospective descriptive observational design. Secondary data of 13,683 women aged 15 - 49 who participated in the ZDHS 2018 were analysed. Data were extracted using a data extraction tool and analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26. Since the ZDHS 2018 used numeric data, the study was quantitative research. The study examined the association between demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and modern contraceptive use using Pearson, Chi-Square and multiple logistic regression.

RESULTS

In Zambia, the most used type of modern contraception were injectables (52%). Female condom is the most known type of modern contraceptives (55%). The significant factors associated with the use of modern contraceptives were age group 25-29 and 45-49 (AOR=1.41 95% CI=1.05, 1.90) and (AOR=0.41, 95% CI 0.28, 0.62), respectively. Being married and widowed (AOR=2.18, 95% CI 1.75, 2.71), and (AOR=0.50, 95% CI 0.31, 0.78), respectively. The likelihood utilization varied across the gradient of parity, educational attainment, and wealth. Educated and wealthy women were more likely to use modern methods compared to women with no education and in the poor category, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The study established that factors such as age, marital status, the number of living children (parity), religion, and education level and wealth index remain significant issues in determining modern contraceptive use among childbearing women aged 15 to 49 in Zambia. Therefore, concerted efforts are required to increase use of modern methods of contraception by addressing these determinants.

ARTICLE SUMMARY

Strengths and limitations of the study

The study utilized secondary data from the ZDHS 2018 as a proxy to establish the determinants of contraceptive use among women of childbearing age 15-49 in Zambia and therefore added to the body of knowledge.

This study was limited by its cross-sectional nature and hence causal inferences cannot be made.

The study relied on self-report measures, which could be affected by social desirability bias or memory bias
Results from Canton Grisons of Switzerland Suggest Repetitive Testing Reduces SARS-CoV-2 Incidence (February-March 2021)
Authors: Gorji Hossein , Lunati Ivan , Rudolf Fabian , Vidondo Beatriz , Hardt Wolf-Dietrich , Jenny Patrick , Engel Doortje , Schneider Jörg , Jamnicki Marina , Leuthold Rudolf , Risch Lorenz , Risch Martin , Bühler Martin , Sommer Adrian , Caduff Alexa
Published: July 2021

In February 2021, in response to emergence of more transmissible SARS-CoV-2 virus variants, the Canton Grisons launched a unique RNA mass testing program targeting the labour force in local businesses. Employees were offered weekly tests free of charge and on a voluntary basis. If tested positive, they were required to self-isolate for ten days and their contacts were subjected to daily testing at work. Thereby, the quarantine of contact persons could be waved. Here, we evaluate the effects of the testing program on the tested cohorts. We examined 121’364 test results from 27’514 participants during February-March 2021. By distinguishing different cohorts of employees, we observe a noticeable decrease in the test positivity rate and a statistically significant reduction in the associated incidence rate over the considered period. The reduction in the latter ranges between 18%-50%. The variability is partly explained by different exposures to exogenous infection sources (e.g., contacts with visiting tourists or cross-border commuters). Our analysis provides the first empirical evidence that applying repetitive mass testing to a real population over an extended period of time can prevent spread of COVID-19 pandemic. However, to overcome logistic, uptake, and adherence challenges it is important that the program is carefully designed and that disease incursion from the population outside of the program is considered and controlled.
Polygenic profiles define aspects of clinical heterogeneity in ADHD
Authors: LaBianca Sonja , Brikell Isabell , Helenius Dorte , Loughnan Robert , Mefford Joel , Palmer Clare E. , Walker Rebecca , Gådin Jesper R. , Krebs Morten , Appadurai Vivek , Vaez Morteza , Agerbo Esben , Gørtz Pedersen Marianne , Børglum Anders D. , Hougaard David M. , Mors Ole , Nordentoft Merete , Mortensen Preben Bo , Kendler Kenneth S. , Jernigan Terry L. , Geschwind Daniel H. , Ingason Andrés , Dahl Andrew W. , Zaitlen Noah , Dalsgaard Søren , Werge Thomas M. , Schork Andrew J.
Published: July 2021

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex disorder with heterogeneous clinical presentations that manifest variability in long-term outcomes. The genetic contributions to this clinical heterogeneity, however, are not well understood. Here, we study 14 084 individuals diagnosed with ADHD to identify several genetic factors underlying clinical heterogeneity. One genome-wide significant locus was specifically associated with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis among individuals diagnosed with ADHD and it was not previously associated with ASD nor ADHD, individually. We used a novel approach to compare profiles of polygenic scores for groups of individuals diagnosed with ADHD and uncovered robust evidence that biology is an important factor in on-going clinical debates. Specifically, individuals diagnosed with ASD and ADHD, substance use disorder (SUD) and ADHD, or first diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood had different profiles of polygenic scores for ADHD and multiple other psychiatric, cognitive, and socio-behavioral traits. A polygene overlap between an ASD diagnosis in ADHD and cognitive performance was replicated in an independent, typically developing cohort. Our unique approach uncovered evidence of genetic heterogeneity in a widely studied complex disorder, allowing for timely contributions to the understanding of ADHD etiology and providing a model for similar studies of other disorders.
Comorbid-phenome prediction and phenotype risk scores enhance gene discovery for generalized anxiety disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Wendt Frank R , Pathak Gita A , Deak Joseph D , De Angelis Flavio , Koller Dora , Cabrera-Mendoza Brenda , Lebovitch Dannielle S , Levey Daniel F , Stein Murray B , Kranzler Henry R , Koenen Karestan C , Gelernter Joel , Huckins Laura M , Polimanti Renato
Published: July 2021

UK Biobank (UKB) is a key contributor in mental health genome-wide association studies (GWAS) but only ~31% of participants completed the Mental Health Questionnaire (“MHQ responders”). We predicted generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major depression symptoms using elastic net regression in the ~69% of UKB participants lacking MHQ data (“MHQ non-responders”; NTraining=50%; NTest=50%), maximizing the informative sample for these traits. MHQ responders were more likely to be female, from higher socioeconomic positions, and less anxious than non-responders. Genetic correlation of GAD and PTSD between MHQ responders and non-responders ranged from 0.636-1.08; both were predicted by polygenic scores generated from independent cohorts. In meta-analyses of GAD (N=489,579) and PTSD (N=497,803), we discovered many novel genomic risk loci (13 for GAD and 40 for PTSD). Transcriptomic analyses converged on altered regulation of prenatal dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in these disorders.
Adoption and continued use of mobile contact tracing technology: Multilevel explanations from a three-wave panel survey and linked data
Authors: Horvath Laszlo , Banducci Susan , Blamire Joshua , Degnen Cathrine , James Oliver , Jones Andrew , Stevens Daniel , Tyler Katharine
Published: July 2021

Objective

To identify the key individual-level (demographics, attitudes, mobility) and contextual (Covid-19 case numbers, tiers of mobility restrictions, urban districts) determinants of adopting the NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app and continued use over-time.

Design and setting

A three-wave panel survey conducted in England in July 2020 (background survey), November 2020 (first measure of mobile app adoption), and March 2021 (continued use of app and new adopters) linked with official data.

Primary outcome

Repeated measures of self-reported app usage.

Participants

N = 2,500 adults living in England, representative of England’s population in terms of regional distribution, age, and gender (2011 census).

Results

We observe initial app uptake at 41%, 95% CI [0.39,0.43], in November 2020 with a 12% dropout rate by March 2021, 95% CI [0.10,0.14]. We also found that 7% of nonusers as of wave 2 became new adopters by wave 3, 95% CI [0.05,0.08]. Initial uptake (or failure to use) of the app associated with social norms, privacy concerns, and misinformation about third-party data access, with those living in postal districts with restrictions on mobility less likely to use the app. Perceived lack of transparent evidence of effectiveness was associated with drop out of use. In addition, those who trusted the government were more likely to adopt in wave 3 as new adopters.

Conclusions

Successful uptake of the contact tracing app should be evaluated within the wider context of the UK Government’s response to the crisis. Trust in government is key to adoption of the app in wave 3 while continued use is linked to perceptions of transparent evidence. Providing clear information to address privacy concerns could increase uptake, however, the disparities in continued use among ethnic minority participants needs further investigation as differences are not fully explained via attitudinal measures.

Article summary

Strengths and limitations of this study

Our data captures reported behaviour at two points to assess within-subject changes over time;

Results based on a large, nationally representative sample rather than the convenience, non-probability and/or limited-N samples of previous contact tracing studies;

Integrating demographic/structural and attitudinal explanations relating to technology acceptance with questions adopted from the results of a deliberative poll;

Limitation: studied population is England (see Section 2.3) where overall mobility is restricted in wave 3 during national lockdown, allowing for limited opportunities for app usage e.g. venue check-ins;

Drawing on our findings, an ethnic minority booster sample will in the future allow us to better understand inequalities across and within diverse ethnic populations.
Prevalence of Strabismus in Individuals on the Autism Spectrum: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Williams Zachary J.
Published: July 2021

Background and Objectives

Strabismus, a misalignment of the eyes, is an important risk factor for amblyopia and visual impairment in the pediatric population. Several studies have reported an increased likelihood of strabismus in persons on the autism spectrum, but prevalence estimates in this group vary greatly.

Methods

We searched multiple databases to identify peer-reviewed articles published in English through November 1, 2020 that provided estimates of strabismus prevalence in autistic individuals. Prevalence estimates were synthesized using Bayesian random-effects meta-analysis, and sensitivity analysis was also performed using only the subset of studies that recruited participants from non-ophthalmologic settings and identified strabismus using structured ocular exams. Bayesian meta-regression was used to assess potential moderators of prevalence across studies.

Results

A total of 151 nonduplicate articles were screened, of which 22 were included in the meta-analysis (k=28 samples, nAUT=113,227). The meta-analytic point prevalence of strabismus in autistic individuals was 13.4% (95% CrI [8.3,19.4]), and sensitivity analysis produced a very similar estimate (14.0% [7.0,22.0], nAUT=581). Esotropia was the predominant subtype of strabismus reported, accounting for approximately 55% of cases. Reported prevalence rates were higher in younger samples (BF10=13.43, R2Het =0.273) and samples recruited from optometry/ophthalmology clinics (BF10=11.47, R2Het =0.238).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis found a high prevalence of strabismus in autistic individuals, with rates 3–10 times that of the general population. As untreated strabismus is a major risk factor for amblyopia in young children, these findings underscore the importance of timely screening and assessment of ocular problems in persons on the autism spectrum.

What’s Known on This Subject

Strabismus has been reported to be more prevalent in individuals on the autism spectrum, but estimates have been very imprecise, ranging from 3–84% across studies.

What This Study Adds

This study performs the first quantitative synthesis of strabismus prevalence in over 100,000 autistic individuals, generating more precise estimates of the prevalence of strabismus in the autistic population. Factors contributing to the large differences between studies are also examined using meta-regression.
Acute phase clinical manifestation of COVID-19 is linked to long-COVID symptoms; A 9-month follow-up study
Authors: Mirfazeli Fatemeh Sadat , Sarabi-Jamab Atiye , kordi Alireza , Shariati Behnam , Shariat Seyed Vahid , Bahrami Salar , Nohesara Shabnam , Almasi-Dooghaee Mostafa , Reza Faiz Seyed Hamid
Published: July 2021

Background

The number of long-COVID is rising but it is not still clear which patients will develop long-covid and what will be the symptoms if they do.We followed up 95 patientswith confirmed COVID-19 after 9 months of the original study to delineate possible long COVID symptoms.

Methods

The original study included 201 patients who were treated in a large referral center from March to May 2020. Ninty percent of the patients reported physical or psychological symptoms within 9 months post-COVID.

Findings

Easy fatigability was the most common 51.04 % long-COVID symptoms followed by anxiety 38.54 %, dyspnea 38.54 %, and new headache 38.54%. There was no association between COVID-19 severity in the acute phase (admission status) and the number of long-COVID symptoms (F(1, 93) = 0.75, p = 0.45 (n.s.)), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) (F(1,93) = -0.49, p = 0.62 (n.s.), MOCA scores (F(1, 90) = 0.073, p = 0.787 (n.s.)) in the future. Being female (F(1, 92) = -2.27, p = 0.02), having a higher number of symptoms in the acute phase(F(1,93) = 2.76, p = 0.0068),and experiencing constitutional neuropsychiatric symptoms(F(1, 93)= 2.529, p = 0.01) in the acute phase were associated with higher occurance of CFS in follow up. Moreover, constitutional neuropsychiatric symptoms in acute phase were associated with cognitive dificits (lower MOCA score) (F(1, 93) = 10.84, p= 0.001) in the follow up.

Conclusions

Severity of the acute disease does not seem to be related to long-COVID symptoms. However, specific clinical presentations might be predictors of distinct long-COVID symptoms. Constitutional neuropsychiatric symptoms in the acute phase are associated with important and debilitating chronic symptoms including chronic fatigue syndrome, and cognitive deficits. These results might pave the way for findingthe underlying mechanisms of long-COVID and provide additional insight into possible candidate treatments for COVID-19.
Towards a cumulative science of vocal markers of autism: a cross-linguistic meta-analysis-based investigation of acoustic markers in American and Danish autistic children
Authors: Fusaroli Riccardo , Grossman Ruth , Bilenberg Niels , Cantio Cathriona , Jepsen Jens Richardt Møllegaard , Weed Ethan
Published: July 2021

Acoustic atypicalities in speech production are argued to be potential markers of clinical features in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A recent meta-analysis highlighted shortcomings in the field, in particular small sample sizes and study heterogeneity (Fusaroli et al., 2017). We showcase a cumulative (i.e., explicitly building on previous studies both conceptually and statistically) yet self-correcting (i.e., critically assessing the impact of cumulative statistical techniques) approach to prosody in ASD to overcome these issues.

We relied on the recommendations contained in the meta-analysis to build and analyze a cross-linguistic corpus of multiple speech productions in 77 autistic and 72 neurotypical children and adolescents (>1000 recordings in Danish and US English). We used meta-analytically informed and skeptical priors, with informed priors leading to more generalizable inference. We replicated findings of a minimal cross-linguistically reliable distinctive acoustic profile for ASD (higher pitch and longer pauses) with moderate effect sizes. We identified novel reliable differences between the two groups for normalized amplitude quotient, maxima dispersion quotient, and creakiness. However, the differences were small, and there is likely no one acoustic profile characterizing all autistic individuals. We identified reliable relations of acoustic features with individual differences (age, gender), and clinical features (speech rate and ADOS sub-scores).

Besides cumulatively building our understanding of acoustic atypicalities in ASD, the study shows how to use systematic reviews and meta-analyses to guide the design and analysis of follow-up studies. We indicate future directions: larger and more diverse cross-linguistic datasets, focus on heterogeneity, self-critical cumulative approaches and open science.

Lay Summary

Autistic individuals are reported to speak in distinctive ways. Distinctive vocal production can affect social interactions and social development and could represent a noninvasive way to support the assessment of ASD. We systematically checked whether acoustic atypicalities highlighted in previous articles could be actually found across multiple recordings and two languages. We find a minimal acoustic profile of ASD: higher pitch, longer pauses, increased hoarseness and creakiness of the voice. However, there is much individual variability (by age, sex, language, and clinical characteristics). This suggests that the search for one common “autistic voice” might be naive and more fine-grained approaches are needed.
Influenza infection, Acute myocardial Infarction, Flu Shot during COVID-19 Pandemic in US population. A Review of Literature
Authors: Baral Nischit , Nayak Nirajan
Published: July 2021

Influenza is a major cause of hospitalization in all age groups but can cause more severe infections in specific high-risk population. Novel Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and Influenza virus infection cause similar illness and coexist. Cardiovascular complications due to influenza are important causes of morbidity and mortality in the US, especially in the elderly population (aged more than 65 years). Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) is the most serious among the cardiovascular causes of mortality following the attack of influenza, mainly in patients with various co-morbidities like pre-existing coronary artery disease (CAD), diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), and heart failure (HF). We have reviewed the association between influenza virus infection and AMI and extrapolated the beneficial effects of influenza vaccine in preventing AMI and its grave consequences. We have also highlighted about the importance of flu shot during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Induction of human trophoblast stem-like cells from primed pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Jang Yu Jin , Kim Mijeong , Lee Bum-Kyu , Kim Jonghwan
Published: July 2021

The placenta is a transient but important multifunctional organ crucial for healthy pregnancy for both mother and fetus. Nevertheless, limited access to human placenta samples and the paucity of a proper in vitro model system has hampered our understanding of the mechanisms underlying early human placental development and placenta-associated pregnancy complications. To overcome these constraints, we established a simple procedure with a short-term treatment of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) in trophoblast stem cell culture medium (TSCM) to convert human primed pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) to trophoblast stem-like cells (TSLCs). These TSLCs show not only comparable morphology and global gene expression profiles to bona fide human trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) but also long-term self-renewal capacity with bipotency that allows the cells to differentiate into functional extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) and syncytiotrophoblasts (ST). These indicate that TSLCs are equivalent to genuine human TSCs. Our data suggest a straightforward approach to make human TSCs directly from pre-existing primed PSCs and provide a valuable opportunity to study human placenta development and pathology even from patients with placenta-related diseases.

HIGHLIGHTS

Short-term treatment of BMP4 in TSCM induces human primed PSCs into TSLCs

TSLCs possess similar self-renewal and bipotency as bona fide TSCs

Global gene expression profiling shows high similarity between TSLCs and TSCs

TSLC-derived EVT and ST possess characteristics shown in TSC-derived counterparts
Comethyl: A network-based methylome approach to investigate the multivariate nature of health and disease
Authors: Mordaunt Charles E. , Mouat Julia S. , Schmidt Rebecca J. , LaSalle Janine M.
Published: July 2021

Health outcomes are frequently shaped by difficult to dissect inter-relationships between biological, behavioral, social, and environmental factors. DNA methylation patterns reflect such multi-variate intersections, providing a rich source of novel biomarkers and insight into disease etiologies. Recent advances in whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) enable investigation of DNA methylation over all genomic CpGs, but existing bioinformatic approaches lack accessible system-level tools. Here, we develop the R package Comethyl, for weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) of user-defined genomic regions that generates modules of comethylated regions, which are then tested for correlations with sample traits. First, regions are defined by CpG genomic location or regulatory annotation and filtered based on CpG count, sequencing depth, and variability. Next, correlation networks are used to find modules of interconnected nodes using methylation values within the selected regions. Each module containing multiple comethylated regions is reduced in complexity to a single eigennode value, which is then tested for correlations with experimental metadata. Comethyl has the ability to cover the noncoding regulatory regions of the genome with high relevance to interpretation of genome-wide association studies and integration with other types of epigenomic data. We demonstrate the utility of Comethyl on a dataset of male cord blood samples from newborns later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) versus typical development. Comethyl successfully identified an ASD-associated module containing gene regions with brain glial functions. Comethyl is expected to be useful in uncovering the multi-variate nature of health disparities for a variety of common disorders. Comethyl is available at github.com/cemordaunt/comethyl.

Description of the Authors

Charles E. Mordaunt, Ph.D. developed Comethyl while a postdoctoral fellow in the department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at UC Davis. He is currently a Computational Biologist at GSK.

Julia S. Mouat is a doctoral student in the Integrative Genetics and Genomics graduate group at UC Davis with interests in health disparities and intergenerational epigenetic risk factors for autism spectrum disorders.

Rebecca J. Schmidt, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Public Health Sciences at UC Davis, with expertise in the use of epigenetics in epidemiology and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Janine M. LaSalle, Ph.D. is a Professor of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Co-Director of the Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, and Deputy Director of the Environmental Health Sciences Center at UC Davis, with expertise in epigenomics and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Social risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 acquisition in University students: cross sectional survey
Authors: Blakey Eleanor , Reeve Lucy , Verlander Neville Q , Edwards David , Wyllie David , Reacher Mark
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To define risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection in University of Cambridge students during a period of increased incidence in October and November 2020.

Study design

Survey

Methods

Routine public health surveillance identified a marked increase in the numbers of University of Cambridge students with respiratory illness and SARS-CoV-2 positivity in the 10 days after a national lockdown was announced in the UK on 5 November 2020. Cases were identified both through symptom-triggered testing and a universal asymptomatic testing program. An online questionnaire was sent to all University of Cambridge students on 25 November to investigate risk factors for testing positive in the period after 30thOctober 2020. This asked about symptoms, SARS-CoV-2 test results, in-person teaching settings, other aspects of University life, and attendance at social events in the period just prior to lockdown, from 30thOctober and 4thNovember 2020. Univariate and multivariable analyses were undertaken evaluating potential risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 positivity.

Results

Among 3,980 students responding to the questionnaire, 99 (2.5%) reported testing SARS-CoV-2 positive in the period studied; 28 (28%) were asymptomatic. We found strong independent associations with SARS-CoV-2 positivity were attendance at two social settings in the City of Cambridge (adjusted odds ratio favouring disease 13.0 (95% CI 6.2,26.9) and 14.2 (95% CI 2.9,70)), with weaker evidence of association with three further social settings. By contrast, we did not observe strong independent associations between disease risk and type of accommodation or attendance at, or participation in, a range of activities associated with the University curriculum.

Conclusions

Attendance at social settings can facilitate widespread SARS-CoV-2 transmission in University students. Constraint of transmission in higher education settings needs to emphasise risks outside University premises, as well as a COVID-safe environment within University premises.

Highlights

In a population of University students, a large increase in individuals testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 occurred in the days following a national lockdown.

Attendance at particular social gatherings was strongly linked to the development of disease, independent of other risk factors.

By contrast, a range of risk factors including age, gender, ethnicity, accommodation type, shared kitchen facilities, attendance at supermarkets, and attending teaching sessions were not significantly associated with SARS-CoV-2 risk.

These data emphasise the increased risk associated with University students attending social settings with large numbers of others, even when other risks associated with university attendance are well controlled.