bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal and maternal outcomes after maternal biologic use during conception and pregnancy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: O'Byrne Laura J. , Alqatari Safi G. , Maher Gillian M. , O'Sullivan Aoife M. , Khashan Ali S. , Murphy Grainne P. , McCarthy Fergus P.
Published: January 2022

Background

Biologic medications, specifically tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) inhibitors, have become increasingly prevalent in the treatment of chronic inflammatory disease (CID) in pregnancy.

Objective

To determine pregnancy outcomes in women with CID exposed to biologics during pregnancy.

Search strategy

PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched through January 1998–July 2021.

Selection criteria

Peer‐reviewed, English‐language cohort, case–control, cross‐sectional studies, and case series that contained original data.

Data collection and analysis

Two authors independently conducted data extraction. A meta‐analysis of proportions using a random‐effects model was used to pool outcomes. Linear regression analysis was used to compare the mean of proportions of outcomes across exposure groups using the ‘treated’ group as the reference category. All studies were evaluated using an appropriate quality assessment tool. The GRADE approach was used to assess the overall certainty of evidence.

Main results

Thirty‐five studies, describing 11 172 pregnancies, were eligible for inclusion. Analysis showed pooled proportions for congenital malformations as follows: treated 0.04 (95% CI 0.03–0.04; I2 = 77) versus disease‐matched 0.04 (95% CI 0.03–0.05. I2 = 86; p = 0.238); preterm delivery treated 0.04 (95% CI 0.10–0.14; I2 = 88) versus disease‐matched 0.10 (95% CI 0.09–0.12; I2 = 87; p = 0.250); severe neonatal infection: treated 0.05 (95% CI 0.03–0.07; I2 = 88) versus disease‐matched 0.05 (95% CI 0.02–0.07; I2 = 94; p = 0.970); low birthweight: treated 0.10 (95% CI 0.07–0.12; I2 = 93) versus disease‐matched 0.08 (95% CI 0.07–0.09; I2 = 0; p = 0.241); pooled miscarriage: treated 0.13 (95% CI 0.10–0.15; I2 = 77) versus disease‐matched 0.08 (95% CI 0.04–0.11; I2 = 5; p = 0.078); pre‐eclampsia; treated 0.01 (95% CI 0.01–0.02; I2 = 0) versus disease‐matched 0.01 (95% CI 0.00–0.01; I2 = 0; p = 0.193). No statistical differences in proportions were observed. GRADE certainty of findings was low to very low.

Conclusion

We demonstrated comparable pregnancy outcomes in pregnancies exposed to biologics, disease‐matched controls and CID‐free pregnancies using the GRADE approach.
Successful immune checkpoint inhibitor‐based rechallenge in a patient with advanced esophageal squamous cell cancer: A case report
Authors: Yao Yanhong , Liu Zhentao , Li Qian , Cao Baoshan , Wang Mopei
Published: January 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been shown to improve survival in patients with advanced or metastatic esophageal cancer. However, ICI‐based rechallenges after recovery from fatal adverse events (AEs) are equivocal, especially in patients who have already undergone treatment‐related AEs. In this study, we report the case of a patient with advanced esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC) who developed a treatment‐related tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) after two cycles of ICI administration, provided in combination with traditional chemotherapeutics. After spontaneous healing of the TEF, the patient was again treated with ICIs and achieved a durable clinical response without any signs of fistula recurrence. Successful ICI‐based rechallenges after fistula healing have rarely been reported. Therefore, ICI‐based rechallenge in patients with esophageal cancer having an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) 0–1 after serious AEs may serve as a clinically viable treatment strategy that should be administered under close monitoring.
Extended chemothromboprophylaxis use in colorectal cancer surgery: a literature review
Authors: Chakraborty Priyanka , Jacob Abraham
Published: January 2022

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potentially fatal condition associated with chronic morbidity. Patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery have an especially high rate of VTE postoperatively. This risk continues to be elevated for up to 3 months after discharge, hence arises the question of extended thromboprophylaxis (ETP). The objective of this literature review is to summarize the current literature on ETP post colorectal cancer surgery. The results of five randomized controlled trials (RCT), several meta‐analysis and five major guidelines are outlined and examined. The literature overwhelmingly supports the use of ETP in colorectal cancer surgery. The key limitation of the evidence base is the use of objective tests to diagnose VTE which also detect asymptomatic events. However, this surrogate marker has been reliably shown to correlate with symptomatic VTE. In other high‐risk populations such as orthopaedic patients, similar research has led to the use of routinely prescribed ETP. There is evidence now that the use of ETP is cost‐effective in reducing morbidity and mortality from VTE in colorectal cancer patients. However, despite strong evidence on the benefits of ETP in colorectal cancer surgery, it is not yet a routine clinical practice. Future research is required to determine the optimal duration of chemothromboprophylaxis in different subgroups within colorectal cancer patients such as patients with rectal cancer only or those undergoing minimally invasive surgery.
The Existential Threat of Urban Social Extractivism: Urban Revival and the Extinction Crisis in the European South
Authors: Rossi Ugo
Published: January 2022

This article applies the notion of existential threat to urban societies endangered by the unrestrained expansion of urbanised extractivist capitalism. It does so for purposes of urban activism and action‐oriented research, because of the sense of urgency this notion conveys. Conceptually drawing on Hardt and Negri’s theorisation of the anthropogenic foundations of extractivist capitalism, the article exposes how variegated processes of economic‐value extraction lead to de‐urbanising dynamics, particularly in urban areas located at the margin of global capitalism that are more exposed to its predatory mechanisms, such as Belgrade and Naples in the European South. In the empirical part, drawing inspiration from Georges Didi‐Huberman, the article looks at “last dwellers” as allegories of residualised urban societies facing an extinction crisis. “Last dwellers” are highly vulnerable city inhabitants being displaced from overexploited urban areas, but at the same time capable of giving rise to an embryonic politics of survival.

本文引入生存威胁的概念, 以研究那些因为采掘资本主义模式主导下的城市无序扩张而受到威胁的城市社会。该概念服务城市行动主义以及行动导向性的研究，传递了一种行动为导向的紧迫感。本文借鉴哈特 (Hardt) 和奈格里 (Negri) 关于采掘资本主义下人类行为本质的理论，揭示多样化的经济价值提取过程如何引致去城市化。这种经济掠夺机制的影响在位于全球资本主义边缘的城市地区，例如被归入’欧洲南部’的贝尔格莱德和那不勒斯，尤为显著。在实证方面，本文受乔治·迪迪胡伯曼 (Georges Didi‐Huberman) 启发，借用 ‘最后的居民’作为濒临灭亡的残余城市社会群体的一个缩影。 ‘最后的居民’由高度脆弱的城市居民构成，他们在城市过度开发中被驱散，并且在寻找新家园的过程中孕育另一种生存政治。
Pustular psoriasis following treatment for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Couper Catriona , Shaffrali Freida
Published: January 2022

We describe the case and treatment of a patient with multiple sclerosis who developed pustular psoriasis following treatment with teriflunomide. There are two other cases of pustular psoriasis induced by teriflunomide in the literature, and in cases where patients are not responding to conventional treatment, accelerated elimination therapy should be considered.
Identifying key federal, state, and private lands strategies for achieving 30 × 30 in the United States
Authors: Dreiss Lindsay M. , Malcom Jacob W.
Published: January 2022

Achieving ambitious goals to conserve at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030 (“30 × 30”) will require a multiscale baseline understanding of current protections, key decisionmakers, and policy tools for moving forward. To help conservationists and decisionmakers support the science‐based call to address the biodiversity and climate crises, we analyze the current spatial patterns of biodiversity and carbon in the United States relative to protected areas and present a typology for classifying land contributions toward the 30 × 30 goals. Analyses demonstrate that 30% is achievable nationally, but spatial heterogeneity highlights the need for tailored approaches from a mix of authorities at federal, regional, and state scales. Current land protections rarely overlap with areas essential for conserving imperiled species biodiversity and mitigating climate change. One‐fifth of unprotected biodiversity hotspots and over 8% carbon‐rich areas face a higher risk of land conversion by 2050. In contrast, 3.6% of key biodiversity areas and 15.6% of carbon‐rich areas may experience higher climate exposure. Policy considerations for making practical, substantive progress toward ecologically meaningful achievement of 30 × 30 goal include the need for significant investments in public and private lands conservation.
Muscular defect resembling a perforation during endoscopic submucosal dissection at the base of a residual appendix after open appendectomy
Authors: Morikawa Takaaki , Fukuda Hisashi , Hayashi Yoshikazu
Published: January 2022

Watch a video of this article.
Observing diatom diversity and community composition along environmental gradients in subarctic mountain ponds
Authors: Heikkinen Janne M. , Aalto Juha , Rantamäki Olli , Ruikkala Toni , Soininen Janne , Pajunen Virpi
Published: January 2022

Cold subarctic pond ecosystems will be threatened due to the increase in global temperatures. Therefore, it is important to gain more knowledge on how their biota may respond to global warming. The aim of this research was to illustrate the variability in diatom species richness and community composition along environmental gradients in northernmost Finland and Norway and reveal the variables most strongly associated with diatom biodiversity. We also compared diatom biodiversity among different biotope types and placed emphasis on the distribution of rare diatom taxa.

A total of 100 subarctic ponds from the Finnish and Norwegian Lapland covering an elevational gradient of 8–887 m above sea level were sampled. A generalised linear model and hierarchical partitioning were used to identify variables associated with diatom species richness. To identify variables associated with diatom community composition, a non‐metric multidimensional scaling ordination was performed. Finally, a principal component analysis and permutational multivariate analysis of variance were used for the investigation of environmental and biotic differences among biotope types.

Water pH, aluminium concentration, and air temperature best explained the variation in species richness and community composition. Diatom species richness and community composition did not differ among the biotope types, but environmental variables in pine forests differed significantly from other biotope types. Many diatom species occupied the entire elevational gradient, while rare taxa seemed to appear at the ends of the elevational gradient as well around the mid‐elevational zone.

We found that elevation was not sufficient to explain the variation in diatom species richness and community composition, but diatom biodiversity was shaped by a variety of local‐scale environmental variables, some of which are in turn correlated with elevation. Our findings suggest that local abiotic factors and especially water chemistry are important factors in describing the variability in diatom community composition and species richness in subarctic ponds. It seems that the lowest and the highest elevations provide suitable habitats for rare diatom taxa that have unique environmental preferences but some of the rare taxa were also constrained to mid elevations.

Our study provides new insights into the role of local abiotic variables in shaping subarctic mountain pond biodiversity. We urge researchers not only to study elevational gradients per se in mountain areas, but also pay special attention to environmental covariates that may play a notable role in maintaining freshwater biodiversity in the subarctic.
Growth of microaerophilic Fe(II)‐oxidizing bacteria using Fe(II) produced by Fe(III) photoreduction
Authors: Lueder Ulf , Maisch Markus , Jørgensen Bo Barker , Druschel Gregory , Schmidt Caroline , Kappler Andreas
Published: January 2022

Iron(II) (Fe(II)) can be formed by abiotic Fe(III) photoreduction, particularly when Fe(III) is organically complexed. Light‐influenced environments often overlap or even coincide with oxic or microoxic geochemical conditions, for example, in sediments. So far, it is unknown whether microaerophilic Fe(II)‐oxidizing bacteria are able to use the Fe(II) produced by Fe(III) photoreduction as electron donor. Here, we present an adaption of the established agar‐stabilized gradient tube approach in comparison with liquid cultures for the cultivation of microaerophilic Fe(II)‐oxidizing microorganisms by using a ferrihydrite‐citrate mixture undergoing Fe(III) photoreduction as Fe(II) source. We quantified oxygen and Fe(II) gradients with amperometric and voltammetric microelectrodes and evaluated microbial growth by qPCR of 16S rRNA genes. We showed that gradients of dissolved Fe(II) (maximum Fe(II) concentration of 1.25 mM) formed in the gradient tubes when incubated in blue or UV light (400–530 nm or 350–400 nm). Various microaerophilic Fe(II)‐oxidizing bacteria (Curvibacter sp. and Gallionella sp.) grew by oxidizing Fe(II) that was produced in situ by Fe(III) photoreduction. Best growth for these species, based on highest gene copy numbers, was observed in incubations using UV light in both liquid culture and gradient tubes containing 8 mM ferrihydrite‐citrate mixtures (1:1), due to continuous light‐induced Fe(II) formation. Microaerophilic Fe(II)‐oxidizing bacteria contributed up to 40% to the overall Fe(II) oxidation within 24 h of incubation in UV light. Our results highlight the potential importance of Fe(III) photoreduction as a source of Fe(II) for Fe(II)‐oxidizing bacteria by providing Fe(II) in illuminated environments, even under microoxic conditions.
Efficacy of emicizumab in von Willebrand disease (VWD) patients with and without alloantibodies to von Willebrand factor (VWF): Report of two cases and review of literature
Authors: Shanmukhaiah Chandrakala , Jijina Farah , Kannan S , Pai Nanda G , Kulkarni Bipin , Khuba Santosh V , Shaikh Madiha , Joshi Aditi , Phatale Rajesh , Apte Shashikant
Published: January 2022

Introduction

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the common bleeding disorder with a clinically relevant bleeding prevalence of 1:10,000. von Willebrand disease patients lack both von Willebrand factor (VWF) and factor VIII (FVIII), which are critical for normal haemostasis. The conventional treatment for VWD includes desmopressin and replacement therapy with plasma derived FVIII with VWF concentrates or recombinant VWF. Development of alloantibodies is a rare occurrence, there is a paucity in the literature of treatment modalities in these patients. Not many reports are available in literature on the efficacy of emicizumab in VWD patients with or without alloantibodies to VWF.

Aim

To do systematic review of literature on emicizumab in VWD and report our experience of emicizumab in two patients of VWD

Methods

We used electronic search engines till May 2021 in ‘Google scholar’ and ‘PubMed’, to collect the case reports or case series on use of emicizumab for management of VWD. Two of our severe VWD patients were successfully treated with emicizumab. A systematic review was performed and the results discussed.

Results

The electronic search revealed six case reports using emicizumab for treatment of VWD. Two were in vitro studies and four in patients with VWD type 3 disease. In vitro studies and in VWD patients on emicizumab, showed improvement in thrombin generation and fibrin formation. Among four patients, three had alloantibodies to VWD and one was negative. All these patients were treated with emicizumab for 6–12 m. After starting emicizumab, none of them had spontaneous bleeding requiring treatment. During treatment with emicizumab, one patient had trauma‐associated soft tissue hematoma, which was treated with rFVIIa and another patient had bleeding following dental exfoliation treated with Humate P. We treated two of our VWD patients one with and one without inhibitors with emicizumab after failure of other therapies. Both the patients showed marked improvement and continued to remain well and free of bleeding episodes. None of the patients had any thrombosis or thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) during treatment with emicizumab.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this review supports the safety and efficacy of emicizumab in type 3 VWD patients with or without alloantibodies. Further large studies are required to confirm the safety and efficacy of emicizumab in VWD.
Atomistic molecular dynamics in polyethylene oxide and polymethyl methacrylate blends having significantly different glass transition temperatures
Authors: Habasaki Junko
Published: January 2022

The highly asymmetric polymer blends, polyethylene oxide and polymethyl methacrylate systems, having extraordinary different original glass transition temperature (Tg) values, have been examined by the fully atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. We have determined densities against temperatures after establishing the conditions of models to clarify the composition‐dependent behavior of the systems. The relations show the intermediate region in addition to the Tg1 and Tg2, the high and low‐temperature Tg values, respectively. The trend found in the polymer blends is reproduced well from the weighted sum of plots for both homopolymers by assuming the additivity of local volumes. The dynamics of the polymer blend exhibited similar behavior with ionic systems but with different time scales. These results open new understandings for the physical meanings of the Tg in polymer blends and their relation with dynamics.
Exploring how international social workers perceive culturally relevant practices: A case study of Japanese social workers’ experiences in other Asian countries
Authors: Higashida Masateru
Published: January 2022

This pilot case study, as part of an international social work research project, explored how culturally relevant collaborative practices were perceived by international social workers. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with social workers (n = 4) who had worked as Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers for 2 years in another Asian country. Thematic analysis was applied to their narratives. Three main themes were found: ‘socio‐cultural understanding based on local life and activities’, ‘collaborative practice with local stakeholders’ and ‘attitudes and perspectives at the local practice’. Although the background and context of the interviewees’ activities differed, they stressed the importance of deepening their socio‐cultural understanding, together with learning local languages and deploying appropriate communication methods, through living in each locality and interacting with local people. They also described the process of exploring the collaborative activities through dialogue with local people, while taking a reflective view. These findings indicate the necessity for a deeper examination of collaborative practice by domestic and international social workers in various fields.
Determination of hepatic clearance by derivations of the indocyanine green retention test in cirrhosis
Authors: Møller Søren , Henriksen Jens H. , Sjöstedt Sannia , Bendtsen Flemming
Published: January 2022

Background and Aim

The study was undertaken in order to compare single injection indocyanine green (ICG)‐clearances with the steady‐state ICG‐clearance (ICGCl) in patients with cirrhosis in order to assess the most accurate estimate for ICG‐clearance and to relate the ICG‐clearances to established indicators of liver dysfunction.

Methods

Thirty‐eight patients (male 29) with cirrhosis (Child–Turcotte class A 8, class B 21, and class C 9) were studied during a hemodynamic investigation. A single injection of ICG was followed by blood samples for 5, 10, 15, and 20 min. The dose/plasma area clearance (ClA) and plasma volume · initial slope clearance (ClPV) were determined and compared with the steady‐state infusion/plasma concentration ratio clearance (ICGCl).

Results

The ClA (310; 214; 502 mL/min) and ClPV (294; 164; 481 mL/min) correlated closely with ICGCl (243; 120; 383 mL/min [median; interquartile range], R = 0.95–0.98, P < 0.000), but were significantly higher than ICGCl (P < 0.001). All three clearance measures correlated significantly with biochemical and hemodynamic variables of liver dysfunction (P < 0.05–0.000). All three ICG‐clearances showed significantly lower values in patients with ascites compared to those without, and lower ICG‐clearance values were present in patients with esophageal varices compared to those without (P < 0.05–0.002).

Conclusion

Single injection markers (ClA and ClPV) of the steady‐state ICG‐clearance as derived from the ICG‐retention curve and the plasma volume correlate with ICGCl and established variables of portal hypertension and liver cell bile excretory dysfunction. Therefore, these markers can safely replace the more costly ICGCl.
Infection process of Pseudobeltrania cedrelae associated with Phyllachora balansae on Cedrela fissilis leaves
Authors: Milagres Cristiane A. , Belisário Renata , Azevedo Daiana M. Q. , Oliveira Leandro L. , Rodrigues Fabrício A. , Furtado Gleiber Q.
Published: January 2022

This study investigated the infection process of Pseudobeltrania cedrelae on leaves of Cedrelae fissilis and a possible action of Phyllachora balansae as a forerunner of the development of pseudobeltrania spot. In the samples analysed by scanning electron microscopy, a higher number of germinated P. cedrelae conidia and appressoria were observed in samples containing P. balansae (unhealthy), whereas conidia barely germinated on the leaflets without ascomas of P. balansae (healthy). The germination of P. cedrelae occurred from 3 h after inoculation (hai) with emission of up to 2 germ tubes from the ends and conidia side. Appressoria showed different shapes from irregular and oval to globose formats. The penetration of P. cedrelae into the leaflets occurred both directly and through the stomata. The inter‐ and intracellular fungal colonization of parenchyma cells occurred at 144 hai. Conidiophores emerging through the epidermis and stomata were observed at 17 days after inoculation. The incidence of pseudobeltrania spot on healthy leaflets with and without wounds was, respectively, 26 and 3 times lower than on unhealthy leaflets. In conclusion, P. balansae plays an important role on the development of pseudobeltrabia spot.
Which factors are associated with the number of dental providers employed in correctional settings?
Authors: Harris Jack A. , Simon Lisa
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Individuals experiencing incarceration are at increased risk of poor oral health. The purpose of this study was to identify state‐level factors that influence the number of oral healthcare providers employed in US correctional settings.

Methods

This ecological study utilized the National Survey of Prison Health Care (NSPHC) to identify the total number of dentists employed in US correctional facilities. Descriptive statistics were calculated and a linear regression was used to identify predictors of the total number of dentists employed in correctional settings by state.

Results

The mean number of dentists and dental hygienists/assistants per 10,000 individuals experiencing incarceration was 9.33 ± 4.54 and 11.53 ± 7.02, respectively. The only significant contributor to dental employment was healthcare spending per individual experiencing incarceration (Coefficient = 0.96; p = 0.004).

Conclusions

These findings illustrate the need to develop novel methods of encouraging oral healthcare providers to join the correctional healthcare workforce.
Nurse‐led intervention to decrease drug use among LTBI positive homeless adults
Authors: Nyamathi Adeline , Morisky Donald , Wall Sarah Akure , Yadav Kartik , Shin Sangshuk , Hall Elizabeth , Chang Alicia H. , White Kathryn , Arce Nicholas , Parsa Therese , Salem Benissa E.
Published: January 2022

Background

People experiencing homelessness (PEH) are disproportionately diagnosed with active tuberculosis. While promoting latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) treatment has been a call to action, PEH engaging in substance use often experience challenges in completing LTBI treatment.

Methods

In this non‐randomized single arm study, we tested an innovative, community‐based, nurse‐led community health worker (RN‐CHW) model, on reducing drug use among 50 PEH, residing in homeless shelters or living on the streets in Los Angeles. Follow‐up was at 3‐ and 6‐ months.

Results

Findings revealed significant and ongoing decrease in any drug use (odds ratio [OR] = 0.30; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.14—0.68); p = .004), amphetamine use (OR = 0.14; 95% CI = 0.02–0.81; p = .029), cannabis use (OR = 0.26; 95% CI = 0.12–0.57; p = .001) and methamphetamine use (OR = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.10–0.90; p = .031) at 6‐month follow‐up.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this pilot study is the first to evaluate the impact a RN‐CHW delivered intervention on reduction in drug use among PEH enrolled in a LTBI intervention. LTBI interventions may serve as an entryway into reduction in drug use among this underserved population.
Acclimation to elevated CO2 affects the C/N balance by reducing de novo N‐assimilation
Authors: Krämer Konrad , Kepp Gabi , Brock Judith , Stutz Simon , Heyer Arnd G.
Published: January 2022

Plants exposed to elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations show an increased photosynthetic activity. However, after prolonged exposure, the activity declines. This acclimation to elevated CO2 is accompanied by a rise in the carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratio of the biomass. Hence, increased sugar accumulation and sequential downregulation of photosynthetic genes, as well as nitrogen depletion and reduced protein content, have been hypothesized as the cause of low photosynthetic performance. However, the reason for reduced nitrogen content in plants at high CO2 is unclear. Here, we show that reduced photorespiration at increased CO2‐to‐O2 ratio leads to reduced de novo assimilation of nitrate, thus shifting the C/N balance. Metabolic modeling of acclimated and non‐acclimated plants revealed the photorespiratory pathway to function as a sink for already assimilated nitrogen during the light period, providing carbon skeletons for de novo assimilation. At high CO2, low photorespiratory activity resulted in diminished nitrogen assimilation and eventually resulted in reduced carbon assimilation. For the hpr1‐1 mutant, defective in reduction of hydroxy‐pyruvate, metabolic simulations show that turnover of photorespiratory metabolites is expanded into the night. Comparison of simulations for hpr1‐1 with those for the wild type allowed investigating the effect of a perturbed photorespiration on N‐assimilation.
RBP4 regulates androgen receptor expression and steroid synthesis in Sertoli cells from Bactrian camels
Authors: Wang Qi , Zhang Quanwei , Li Yina , Zhao Xingxu , Zhang Yong
Published: January 2022

Retinol‐binding protein (RBP4) plays an important role in the transport and metabolism of retinol. In addition, RBP4 contributes to testicular homeostasis, including maintenance of spermatogenesis and synthesis of androgens that mediate their physiological functions through the androgen receptor. RBP4 in Sertoli cells regulates testosterone and dihydrotestosterone synthesis and secretion, although the mechanisms have yet to be revealed. In this study, we examined the expression and function of RBP4 in Sertoli cells isolated from Bactrian camels. qRT‐PCR analysis of various Bactrian camel tissues revealed high expression of RBP4 in the testis and epididymis. To examine RBP4 function, Sertoli cells isolated from testes were transfected with an RBP4 overexpression plasmid or RBP4‐targeting siRNA. RBP4 overexpression resulted in significant inhibition of transcription and translation of the steroidogenic enzymes 3βHSD and SRD5A1 concomitant with a significant decrease in androgen receptor expression and dihydrotestosterone secretion. Conversely, RBP4 knockdown significantly increased the expression of 3βHSD, SRD5A1 and androgen receptor and enhanced the secretion of dihydrotestosterone and testosterone. These data reveal a novel role for RBP4 in regulating steroid synthesis in Sertoli cells from Bactrian camels.
Allowable Cracks Related to Penetration for Part-Through Cracks in Pipes Subjected to Bending Stresses
Authors: Hasegawa Kunio , Li Yinsheng , Strnadel Bohumír , Udyawar Anees
Published: January 2022

Fully plastic collapse stresses for circumferentially part-through cracked pipes subjected to bending stresses are estimated by limit load criteria provided by the ASME Code Section XI. Allowable crack depths were determined by using the limit load criteria and that are tabulated in the ASME Code Section XI for different plant service-level conditions. On the other hand, crack penetration bending stresses for part-through cracked pipes were estimated by using the local approach of limit load criteria. By using these criteria, the study presented in this paper obtained allowable crack depths at penetration for circumferentially part-through cracked pipes. Comparing the allowable crack depths obtained by both methods for each service level, it is evident that the allowable crack depths at penetration calculated by the local approach of limit load criteria are almost always smaller than those at fully plastic collapse stresses calculated by the limit load criteria. It was found that the allowable crack depths provided by the ASME Code Section XI are less conservative for crack penetrations.
Study on Energy Dissipation Mechanism of an Impact Damper System
Authors: Vinayaravi R. , Jayaraj K. , Kumaresan D. , Asraff A. K.
Published: January 2022

The objective of this paper is to investigate how higher damping is achieved by energy dissipation as high-frequency vibration due to the addition of impact mass. In an impact damper system, collision between primary and impact masses cause an exchange of momentum resulting in dissipation of energy. A numerical model is developed to study the dynamic behavior of an impact damper system using a multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) system with augmented Lagrangian multiplier contact algorithm. Mathematical modeling and numerical simulations are carried out using ansysfea package. Studies are carried out for various mass ratios subjecting the system to low-frequency high amplitude excitation. Time responses obtained from numerical simulations at fundamental mode when the system is excited in the vicinity of its fundamental frequency are validated by comparing with experimental results. Magnification factor evaluated from numerical simulation results is comparable with those obtained from experimental data. The transient response obtained from numerical simulations is used to study the behavior of first three modes of the system excited in vicinity of its fundamental frequency. It is inferred that dissipation of energy is a main reason for achieving higher damping for an impact damper system in addition to being transformed to heat, sound, and/or those required to deform a body.
Numerical Modeling of Simultaneous Heat and Moisture Transport in Fire Protective Suits Under Flash Fire Exposure and Evaluation of Second-Degree Burn Time
Authors: Rajput Bhavna , Dubey Ritambhara , Ray Bahni , Das Apurba , Talukdar Prabal
Published: January 2022

An improved numerical model is developed for coupled heat and moisture transport in fire protective suits exposed to flash fire. This model is combined with Pennes' bioheat transfer model and subsequently, second-degree burn time is estimated using Henriques' burn integral. Natural convection is considered inside the airgap present between the multilayer clothing ensemble and the skin. Comparisons of temperature and moisture distribution within the multilayer clothing, airgap, and the skin during the exposure are presented considering combined heat and moisture transport and only heat transport. The effect of moisture transport on the protective performance of the fire protective suits is shown. The impact of both horizontal and vertical airgap orientations on second-degree burn time is studied. The effect of temperature-dependent thermophysical properties, relative humidity, fiber regain, different exposure conditions, and fabric combinations for the fire protective suits on burn time is analyzed.
Disentangling the Evolutionary History of Feo, the Major Ferrous Iron Transport System in Bacteria
Authors: Gómez-Garzón Camilo , Barrick Jeffrey E. , Payne Shelley M.
Published: January 2022

Feo, a ferrous iron transport system composed of three proteins (FeoA, -B, and -C), is the most prevalent bacterial iron transporter. It plays an important role in iron acquisition in low-oxygen environments and some host-pathogen interactions.
Evolutionary Ecology of Natural Comammox
Nitrospira
Populations
Authors: Palomo Alejandro , Dechesne Arnaud , Cordero Otto X. , Smets Barth F.
Published: January 2022

Microbial species interact with each other and their environment (ecological processes) and undergo changes in their genomic repertoire over time (evolutionary processes). How these two classes of processes interact is largely unknown, especially for complex communities, as most studies of microbial evolutionary dynamics consider single species in isolation or a few interacting species in simplified experimental systems.
Supplemental Material: Calibrating the Russøya excursion in Svalbard, Norway, and implications for Neoproterozoic chronology
Authors: Millikin Alexie E.G. , al. et
Published: January 2022

Detailed analytical methods and sample information, data tables containing all geochemical data, and compiled geochronological and chemostratigraphic data.
Supplemental Material: Boron proxies record paleosalinity variation in the North American Midcontinent Sea in response to Carboniferous glacio-eustasy
Authors: Wei Wei , Yu Wenchao , al. et
Published: January 2022

Paleosalinity signals recorded in B/Ga and B isotopes.
Supplemental Material: A trans-Iapetus transform fault control for the evolution of the Rheic Ocean: Implications for an early Paleozoic transition of accretionary tectonics
Authors: Wu Lei , al. et
Published: January 2022

Figure S1: Alternative sets of mean poles. Table S1: Paleomagnetic data from Domeier (2016). Table S2–4: Alternative mean poles for Gondwana, Laurentia and Baltica.
Association ofSIX1-SIX6polymorphisms with peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer thickness in children
Authors: Lu Shi Yao , Zhang Xiu Juan , Wang Yu Meng , Yuan Nan , Kam Ka Wai , Chan Poemen P , Tam Pancy OS , Yip Wilson WK , Young Alvin L , Tham Clement C , Pang Chi Pui , Yam Jason C , Chen Li Jia
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Association ofSIX1-SIX6variants with peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (p-RNFL) thickness had been reported in adults. This study aimed to investigate these associations in children, with further explorations by spatial, age and sex stratifications.

Methods

2878 school children aged between 6 and 9 years were enrolled from the Hong Kong Children Eye Study. Three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at theSIX1-SIX6locus were genotyped. The association of each SNP with p-RNFL thickness (including global and sectoral thickness) were evaluated using multiple linear regression.

Results

SNPs rs33912345 (p=7.7×10−4) and rs10483727 (p=0.0013) showed significant associations with temporal-inferior p-RNFL thickness. The C allele of rs33912345 was associated with a thinner temporal-inferior p-RNFL by an average of 2.44 µm, while rs10483727-T was associated with a thinner temporal-inferior p-RNFL by 2.32 µm. The association with temporal-inferior p-RNFL was the strongest in the 8–9 year-old group for rs33912345 (p=5.2×10−4) and rs10483727 (p=3.3×10−4). Both SNPs were significantly associated with temporal-inferior p-RNFL thickness in boys (p<0.0017), but not in girls (p>0.05). In contrast, rs12436579-C (β=1.66; p=0.0059), but not rs33912345-C (β=1.31; p=0.052) or rs10483727-T (β=1.19; p=0.078), was nominally associated with a thicker nasal-inferior p-RNFL.

Conclusions

Both rs33912345 and rs10483727 atSIX1-SIX6were associated with p-RNFL thickness in children, especially at the temporal-inferior sector, with age-dependent and sex-specific effects. SNP rs12436579 was associated with nasal-inferior p-RNFL thickness. Our findings suggested a role ofSIX1-SIX6in RNFL variation during neural retina development in childhood.
Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale as a predictor of adverse outcomes among older adults undergoing aortic valve replacement: a protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Prendiville Tadhg , Leahy Aoife , Quinlan Laura , Saleh Anastasia , Shanahan Elaine , Gabr Ahmed , Peters Catherine , Casserly Ivan , O'Connor Margaret , Galvin Rose
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Frailty is associated with adverse outcomes relating to cardiac procedures. It has been proposed that frailty scoring should be included in the preoperative assessment of patients undergoing aortic valve replacement. We aim to examine the Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), as a predictor of adverse outcomes following aortic valve replacement.

Methods and analysis

Prospective and retrospective cohort studies and randomised controlled trials assessing both the preoperative frailty status (as per the CFS) and incidence of adverse outcomes among older adults undergoing either surgical aortic valve replacement or transcatheter aortic valve replacement will be included. Adverse outcomes will include mortality and periprocedural complications, as well as a composite of 30-day complications. A search will be conducted from 2005 to present using a prespecified search strategy. Studies will be screened for inclusion by two reviewers, with methodological quality assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool. Relative risk ratios with 95% CIs will be generated for each outcome of interest, comparing frail with non-frail groups. Data will be plotted on forest plots where applicable. The quality of the evidence will be determined using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation tool.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this study as no primary data will be collected. We will publish the review in a peer-reviewed journal on completion.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020213757.
Contribution of primary care expansion to Sustainable Development Goal 3 for health: a microsimulation of the 15 largest cities in Brazil
Authors: Basu Sanjay , Hone Thomas , Villela Daniel , Saraceni Valeria , Trajman Anete , Durovni Betina , Millett Christopher , Rasella Davide
Published: January 2022

Objectives

As middle-income countries strive to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it remains unclear to what degree expanding primary care coverage can help achieve those goals and reduce within-country inequalities in mortality. Our objective was to estimate the potential impact of primary care expansion on cause-specific mortality in the 15 largest Brazilian cities.

Design

Microsimulation model.

Setting

15 largest cities by population size in Brazil.

Participants

Simulated populations.

Interventions

We performed survival analysis to estimate HRs of death by cause and by demographic group, from a national administrative database linked to the Estratégia de Saúde da Família (Family Health Strategy, FHS) electronic health and death records among 1.2 million residents of Rio de Janeiro (2010–2016). We incorporated the HRs into a microsimulation to estimate the impact of changing primary care coverage in the 15 largest cities by population size in Brazil.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Crude and age-standardised mortality by cause, infant mortality and under-5 mortality.

Results

Increased FHS coverage would be expected to reduce inequalities in mortality among cities (from 2.8 to 2.4 deaths per 1000 between the highest-mortality and lowest-mortality city, given a 40 percentage point increase in coverage), between welfare recipients and non-recipients (from 1.3 to 1.0 deaths per 1,000), and among race/ethnic groups (between Black and White Brazilians from 1.0 to 0.8 deaths per 1,000). Even a 40 percentage point increase in coverage, however, would be insufficient to reach SDG targets alone, as it would be expected to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by 20% (vs the target of 33%), and communicable diseases by 15% (vs 100%).

Conclusions

FHS primary care coverage may be critically beneficial to reducing within-country health inequalities, but reaching SDG targets will likely require coordination between primary care and other sectors.
Association of breast feeding and birth interval with child mortality in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study using nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey data
Authors: Amir-ud-Din Rafi , Mahmood Hafiz Zahid , Abbas Faisal , Muzammil Muhammad , Kumar Ramesh , Pongpanich Sathirakorn
Published: January 2022

Objectives

This study analysed the association between breast feeding (BF) and birth interval (BI) (both succeeding and preceding) with neonatal mortality (NM), infant mortality (IM) and under-5 mortality (U5M).

Design

This cross-sectional study used data from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018.

Settings

All provinces, Islamabad and Federally Administered Tribal Areas were included in the analysis.

Participants

A total of 12 769 children born to ever-married multiparous women aged 30–49 years who gave live birth within 5 years preceding the interview. Multiple births are not included.

Data analysis

Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used.

Results

We found that BF was associated with nearly 98% lower risk of NM (OR 0.015; 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.03; p<0.001), 96% lower risk of IM (OR 0.038; 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.06; p<0.001) and 94% lower risk of U5M (OR 0.050; 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.08; p<0.001). Compared with optimal preceding birth interval (PBI) (36+ months), short PBI (<18 months) was associated with around six times higher risk of NM (OR 5.661; 95% CI: 2.78 to 11.53; p<0.001), over five times risk of IM (OR 4.704; 95% CI: 2.70 to 8.19; p<0.001) and over five times risk of U5M (OR 4.745; 95% CI: 2.79 to 8.07; p<0.001). Disaggregating the data by child’s gender, place of residence and mother’s occupational status showed that being ever breast fed was associated with a smaller risk of NM, IM and U5M in all three disaggregations. However, the risk of smaller PBI <18 months was generally more pronounced in female children (NM and U5M) or when the children lived in rural areas (NM, IM and U5M). PBI <18 months was associated with greater risk of NM and IM, and smaller risk of U5M when mothers did a paid job.

Conclusion

This study’s significance lies in the fact that it has found BF and BI to be consistent protective factors against NM, IM and U5M. Given Pakistan’s economic constraints, optimal BF and BI are the most cost-effective interventions to reduce child mortality.
Prevalence and risk factors of depression symptoms among rural and urban populations affected by Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a representative cross-sectional study
Authors: Cénat Jude Mary , Noorishad Pari-Gole , Dalexis Rose Darly , Rousseau Cécile , Derivois Daniel , Kokou-Kpolou Cyrille Kossigan , Bukaka Jacqueline , Balayulu-Makila Oléa , Guerrier Mireille
Published: January 2022

Objectives

High mortality rates, anxiety and distress associated with Ebola virus disease (EVD) are risk factors for mood disorders in affected communities. This study aims to document the prevalence and risk factors associated with depressive symptoms among a representative sample of individuals affected by EVD.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

The current study was conducted 7 months (March 11, 2019 to April 23, 2019) after the end of the ninth outbreak of EVD in the province of Equateur in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Participants

A large population-based sample of 1614 adults (50% women, Mage=34.05; SD=12.55) in health zones affected by the ninth outbreak in DRC.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Participants completed questionnaires assessing EVD exposure level, stigmatisation related to EVD and depressive symptoms. The ORs associated with sociodemographic data, EVD exposure level and stigmatisation were analysed through logistic regressions.

Results

Overall, 62.03% (95% CI 59.66% to 64.40%) of individuals living in areas affected by EVD were categorised as having severe depressive symptoms. The multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that adults in the two higher score categories of exposure to EVD were at two times higher risk of developing severe depressive symptoms (respectively, OR 1.94 (95% CI 1.22 to 3.09); OR 2.34 (95% CI 1.26 to 4.34)). Individuals in the two higher categories of stigmatisation were two to four times more at risk (respectively, OR 2.42 (95% CI 1.53 to 3.83); OR 4.73 (95% CI 2.34 to 9.56)). Living in rural areas (OR 0.19 (95% CI 0.09 to 0.38)) and being unemployed (OR 0.68 (95% CI 0.50 to 0.93)) increased the likelihood of having severe depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Results indicate that depressive symptoms in EVD affected populations is a major public health problem that must be addressed through culturally adapted mental health programs.
Qualitative study exploring the feasibility, usability and acceptability of neonatal continuous monitoring technologies at a public tertiary hospital in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Kinshella Mai-Lei Woo , Naanyu Violet , Chomba Dorothy , Waiyego Mary , Rigg Jessica , Coleman Jesse , Hwang Bella , Ansermino J Mark , Macharia William M , Ginsburg Amy Sarah
Published: January 2022

Objective

To assess the feasibility, usability and acceptability of two non-invasive, multiparameter, continuous physiological monitoring (MCPM) technologies for use in neonates within a resource-constrained healthcare setting in sub-Saharan Africa.

Design

A qualitative study using in-depth interviews and direct observations to describe healthcare professional and caregiver perspectives and experiences with investigational MCPM technologies from EarlySense and Sibel compared with selected reference technologies.

Setting

Pumwani Maternity Hospital is a public, high-volume, tertiary hospital in Nairobi, Kenya.

Participants

In-depth interviews were conducted with five healthcare administrators, 12 healthcare providers and 10 caregivers. Direct observations were made of healthcare providers using the technologies on 12 neonates overall.

Results

Design factors like non-invasiveness, portability, ease-of-use and ability to measure multiple vital signs concurrently emerged as key themes supporting the usability and acceptability of the investigational technologies. However, respondents also reported feasibility challenges to implementation, including overcrowding in the neonatal unit, lack of reliable access to electricity and computers, and concerns about cost and maintenance needs. To improve acceptability, respondents highlighted the need for adequate staffing to appropriately engage caregivers and dispel misconceptions about the technologies.

Conclusion

Study participants were positive about the usefulness of the investigational technologies to strengthen clinical care quality and identification of at-risk neonates for better access to timely interventions. These technologies have the potential to improve equity of access to appropriate healthcare services and neonatal outcomes in sub-Saharan African healthcare facilities. However, health system strengthening is also critical to support sustainable uptake of technologies into routine care.

Trial registration number

NCT03920761.