bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NcPath: a novel platform for visualization and enrichment analysis of human non-coding RNA and KEGG signaling pathways
Authors: Li Zutan , Zhang Yuan , Fang Jingya , Xu Zhihui , Zhang Hao , Mao Minfang , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhang Liangyun , Pian Cong
Published: December 2022

Non-coding RNAs play important roles in transcriptional processes and participate in the regulation of various biological functions, in particular miRNAs and lncRNAs. Despite their importance for several biological functions, the existing signaling pathway databases do not include information on miRNA and lncRNA. Here, we redesigned a novel pathway database named NcPath by integrating and visualizing a total of 178 308 human experimentally validated miRNA–target interactions (MTIs), 32 282 experimentally verified lncRNA–target interactions (LTIs) and 4837 experimentally validated human ceRNA networks across 222 KEGG pathways (including 27 sub-categories). To expand the application potential of the redesigned NcPath database, we identified 556 798 reliable lncRNA–protein-coding genes (PCG) interaction pairs by integrating co-expression relations, ceRNA relations, co-TF-binding interactions, co-histone-modification interactions, cis-regulation relations and lncPro Tool predictions between lncRNAs and PCG. In addition, to determine the pathways in which miRNA/lncRNA targets are involved, we performed a KEGG enrichment analysis using a hypergeometric test. The NcPath database also provides information on MTIs/LTIs/ceRNA networks, PubMed IDs, gene annotations and the experimental verification method used. In summary, the NcPath database will serve as an important and continually updated platform that provides annotation and visualization of the pathways on which non-coding RNAs (miRNA and lncRNA) are involved, and provide support to multimodal non-coding RNAs enrichment analysis. The NcPath database is freely accessible at http://ncpath.pianlab.cn/.

Availability and implementation

NcPath database is freely available at http://ncpath.pianlab.cn/. The code and manual to use NcPath can be found at https://github.com/Marscolono/NcPath/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Allele-specific silencing as therapy for familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis caused by the p.G376D TARDBP mutation
Authors: Romano Roberta , De Luca Maria , Del Fiore Victoria Stefania , Pecoraro Martina , Lattante Serena , Sabatelli Mario , La Bella Vincenzo , Bucci Cecilia
Published: December 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons. There is no treatment for this disease that affects the ability to move, eat, speak and finally breathe, causing death. In an Italian family, a heterozygous pathogenic missense variant has been previously discovered in Exon 6 of the gene TARDBP encoding the TAR DNA-binding protein 43 protein. Here, we developed a potential therapeutic tool based on allele-specific small interfering RNAs for familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with the heterozygous missense mutation c.1127G>A. We designed a small interfering RNA that was able to diminish specifically the expression of the exogenous Green Fluorescent Protein (TAR DNA-binding protein 43G376D mutant protein) in HEK-293T cells but not that of the Green Fluorescent Protein (TAR DNA-binding protein 43 wild-type). Similarly, this small interfering RNA silenced the mutated allele in fibroblasts derived from patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis but did not silence the wild-type gene in control fibroblasts. In addition, we established that silencing the mutated allele was able to strongly reduce the pathological cellular phenotypes induced by TAR DNA-binding protein 43G376D expression, such as the presence of cytoplasmic aggregates. Thus, we have identified a small interfering RNA that could be used to silence specifically the mutated allele to try a targeted therapy for patients carrying the p.G376D TAR DNA-binding protein 43 mutation.
Reactivation of schema representation in lateral occipital cortex supports successful memory encoding
Authors: Guo Dingrong , Yang Jiongjiong
Published: December 2022

Schemas provide a scaffold onto which we can integrate new memories. Previous research has investigated the brain activity and connectivity underlying schema-related memory formation. However, how schemas are represented and reactivated in the brain, in order to enhance memory, remains unclear. To address this issue, we used an object–location spatial schema that was learned over multiple sessions, combined with similarity analyses of neural representations, to investigate the reactivation of schema representations of object–location memories when a new object–scene association is learned. In addition, we investigated how this reactivation affects subsequent memory performance under different strengths of schemas. We found that reactivation of a schema representation in the lateral occipital cortex (LOC) during object–scene encoding affected subsequent associative memory performance only in the schema-consistent condition and increased the functional connectivity between the LOC and the parahippocampal place area. Taken together, our findings provide new insight into how schema acts as a scaffold to support the integration of novel information into existing cortical networks and suggest a neural basis for schema-induced rapid cortical learning.
A case report of Trichinella spiralis pericarditis: an unusual cause of pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade in an immunocompetent urban black African
Authors: Nkoke Clovis , Djibrilla Siddikatou , Gobina Ronald , Dzudie Anastase
Published: December 2022

Background

Cardiac trichinellosis is unusual and it is associated with high mortality. We report a case of Trichinella pericarditis complicated by a large pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade in a setting where the aetiologic diagnosis of pericardial disease is challenging.

Case summary

A 27-year-old immune-competent male patient from Cameroon consulted for pleuritic chest pain associated with fever, dry cough, and gradually worsening dyspnoea on exertion of 1-month duration. Upon admission, his blood pressure was 100/73 mmHg, the heart rate was 130/min. The clinical examination revealed a pericardial friction rub, jugular venous distension, and tender hepatomegaly. There was no lower extremity oedema. The diagnosis of pericarditis was made. A two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiogram performed showed a moderate fibrinous circumferential pericardial effusion with echocardiographic signs of tamponade. Pericardiocentesis was performed and analysis of the fluid revealed multiple, motile, roundworms which were identified as Trichinella spiralis, a nematode parasite. There was no eosinophilia on complete blood count. He was treated with Albendazole 800 mg daily per os. His clinical condition improved with resolution of the symptoms and a reduction in the size of the pericardial effusion.

Discussion

Trichinella spiralis is a rare cause of pericarditis which can be life-threatening. With the existing challenges in diagnosing the aetiology of pericardial disease in African resource-limited setting, the diagnosis can be missed leading to fatal outcomes.
Barriers to cervical cancer and breast cancer screening uptake in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Srinath Ananth , van Merode Frits , Rao Shyam Vasudeva , Pavlova Milena
Published: December 2022

There is an alarmingly high growth in breast and cervical cancers in low- and middle-income countries. Due to late presentation to doctors, there is a lower cure rate. The screening programmes in low- and middle-income countries are not comprehensive. In this paper, we systematically analyse the barriers to screening through an accessibility framework. We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed, Mendeley and Google Scholar to retrieve all English language studies (quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods) that contained information on breast and cervical cancer screening in low- and middle-income countries. We only considered publications published between 1 January 2016 and 31 May 2021. The review was guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses literature search extension (PRISMA-S), an extension to the PRISMA Statement for Reporting Literature Searches in Systematic Reviews. The search yielded a total of 67 articles from low- and middle-income countries in this review. We used a framework on accessibility known as the 5A framework, which distinguishes five aspects of access: approachability, acceptability, availability, affordability and appropriateness, to classify the screening barriers. We added two more aspects: awareness and angst, as they could explain other important barriers to screening. They confirmed how the lack of awareness, cost of the screening service and distance to the screening centre act as major impediments to screening. They also revealed how embarrassment and fear of screening and cultural factors such as lack of spousal or family support could be obstacles to screening. We conclude that more needs to be done by policymakers and governments to improve the confidence of the people in the health systems. Women should be made aware of the causes and risk factors of cancer through evidence-based strategies so that there is an increased adherence to screening.
History’s Toolbox in Health Professions Education: One Skill-Based Session on Social Determinants of Health
Authors: Lamb Susan
Published: December 2022

Aimed at clinical educators, this article reports on the use of a single skill-based session that introduces learners in Health Professions Education (HPE) to basic techniques from the discipline of history. The premise of the teaching method is a correspondence between medicine’s social determinants of health (SDH) and categories of analysis commonly used by historians. At the center are eight categories, or “tools”: social, cultural, intellectual, technological, political, economic, racial/ethnic, and gendered. Like the direct and specific implications of many diagnostic signs, each of these adjectives indicate to historians specific types of factors, or determinants. The intervention employs the demonstration-performance teaching method (explanation, demonstration, supervised practice, and evaluation). After the session, learners are able to: use “history’s toolbox” as a systematic method for evaluating socio-cultural phenomena inherent in SDH; differentiate eight types of determinants in a historical case study that represents socio-cultural complexity; recognize how categorization simultaneously enhances some determinants while obscuring others, and how the use of constructed social categories in medicine can function to help and harm patients and populations. The intervention described is rooted in scholarship and theoretical questions belonging to the discipline of history, but these are not discussed. Neither the historical content nor the teaching method described here is appropriate for research or teaching in the discipline of history.
Long-Acting Antiretroviral Drug Therapy in Adolescents: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Freij Bishara J , Aldrich Aileen M , Ogrin Sara L , Olivero Rosemary M
Published: December 2022

Approximately 50% of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected adolescents fail to achieve complete viral suppression, largely due to nonadherence to their antiretroviral drug regimens. Numerous personal, financial, and societal barriers contribute to nonadherence, which may lead to the development of HIV drug resistance. Long-acting antiretroviral drugs hold the promise of improved adherence because they remove the need for swallowing one or more pills daily. Cabotegravir (an integrase strand transfer inhibitor) and rilpivirine (a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor) can now be intramuscularly co-administered to HIV-infected adolescents every 4–8 weeks if they are virologically suppressed and without resistance mutations to cabotegravir or rilpivirine. Adverse effects are few and non-severe. Widespread use of this complete antiretroviral therapy may be limited by drug costs, need for sites and skilled personnel who can administer the injections, and ethical challenges. Other long-acting medications and new antiretroviral therapy delivery systems are under active investigation and show great promise.
UK surrogates’ characteristics, experiences, and views on surrogacy law reform
Authors: Horsey Kirsty , Arian-Schad Mimi , Macklon Nicholas , Ahuja Kamal
Published: December 2022

What are surrogates’ views on their experience with surrogacy, their understanding of the law, and views on legal reform? We conducted an online retrospective survey of women who underwent treatment as gestational surrogates in two UK-regulated IVF centres between March 2014 and October 2021. Forty-seven surrogates responded outlining their experiences with surrogacy in the England/Wales legal context, their understandings of the law, and thoughts on potential law reform. The surrogates ranged in age, occupation, and household income. Most surrogates were white, British women. While almost half were family members or friends of the intended parents, the largest category met the intended parents through a non-profit surrogacy organization. Two-thirds of the respondents had given birth to a baby as a surrogate. Surrogates generally do not view themselves as the mother of the child that they carry and support proposals for reforms that would recognize the intended parents as legal parents from birth. More ambivalence is apparent in relation to expenses and payments, though advertising is generally supported. Draft new legislation is expected to be introduced in the UK in 2023, and the results of this study could inform public and parliamentary debates to come in the UK and elsewhere. Moreover, the results from this survey can assist the development of good practice models for care on the surrogate pathway.
The molecular gas kinematics in the host galaxy of non-repeating FRB 180924B
Authors: Hsu Tzu-Yin , Hashimoto Tetsuya , Hatsukade Bunyo , Goto Tomotsugu , Wang Po-Ya , Ling Chih-Teng , Ho Simon C-C , Uno Yuri
Published: December 2022

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are millisecond-duration transients with large dispersion measures. The origin of FRBs is still mysterious. One of the methods to comprehend FRB origin is to probe the physical environments of FRB host galaxies. Mapping molecular-gas kinematics in FRB host galaxies is critical because it results in star formation that is likely connected to the birth of FRB progenitors. However, most previous works of FRB host galaxies have focused on its stellar component. Therefore, we, for the first time, report the molecular gas kinematics in the host galaxy of the non-repeating FRB 180924B at z = 0.3216. Two velocity components of the CO (3 − 2) emission line are detected in its host galaxy with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA): the peak of one component (−155.40 km s−1) is near the centre of the host galaxy, and another (−7.76 km s−1) is near the FRB position. The CO (3 − 2) spectrum shows asymmetric profiles with Apeak = 2.03 ± 0.39, where Apeak is the peak flux density ratio between the two velocity components. The CO (3 − 2) velocity map also indicates an asymmetric velocity gradient from −180 to 8 km s−1. These results indicate a disturbed kinetic structure of molecular gas in the host galaxy. Such disturbed kinetic structures are reported for repeating FRB host galaxies using H i emission lines in previous works. Our finding indicates that non-repeating and repeating FRBs could commonly appear in disturbed kinetic environments, suggesting a possible link between the gas kinematics and FRB progenitors.
Ordering the confusion: a study of the impact of lens models on gravitational-wave strong lensing detection capabilities
Authors: Janquart Justin , More Anupreeta , Van Den Broeck Chris
Published: December 2022

When travelling from their source to the observer, gravitational waves can get deflected by massive objects along their travel path. For a massive lens and a good source-lens alignment, the wave undergoes strong lensing, leading to several images with the same frequency evolution. These images are separated in time, magnified, and can undergo an overall phase shift. Searches for strongly lensed gravitational waves look for events with similar masses, spins, and sky location and linked through so-called lensing parameters. However, the agreement between these quantities can also happen by chance. To reduce the overlap between background and foreground, one can include lensing models. When doing realistic searches, one does not know which model is the correct one to be used. Using an incorrect model could lead to the non-detection of genuinely lensed events. In this work, we investigate how one can reduce the false alarm probability when searching for strongly lensed events. We focus on the impact of the addition of a model for the lens density profile and investigate the effect of potential errors in the modelling. We show that the risks of false alarm are high without the addition of a lens model. We also show that slight variations in the profile of the lens model are tolerable, but a model with an incorrect assumption about the underlying lens population causes significant errors in the identification process. We also suggest some strategies to improve confidence in the detection of strongly lensed gravitational waves.
Subcutaneous injection of methotrexate: Advantages in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: December 2022

Methotrexate (MTX) is a conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, which is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. However, insufficient responses to oral MTX at lower doses as well as increased variation of drug bioavailability and a deteriorated safety profile during dose escalation are regularly observed in patients. Some of its main side effects may be overcome by temporary drug hiatus or dose reduction or can be counterbalanced with folic acid. Especially gastrointestinal side effects are a major reason for permanent treatment discontinuation. Recent data suggest that MTX in a subcutaneous injection formulation can reduce gastrointestinal effects and thus may allow us to overcome oral intolerance and improve drug survival. Here, we review the currently available literature on the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous MTX in comparison to oral MTX in the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Despite some inconsistency between data, an improvement in the efficacy and/or safety profile of subcutaneous MTX has been demonstrated. In the USA, subcutaneous MTX is an established second-line treatment already, while in European countries this formulation is even recommended as a first-line treatment. With the recent approval of subcutaneous MTX in Japan, another beneficial treatment option is now available for Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Making a Home of The Society for Music Theory, Inc.
Authors: Lett Stephen
Published: December 2022

This article studies the values animating the profession of music theory in the North American academy. Focusing on the creation and development of the field’s institutional home, the Society for Music Theory, Inc., I argue that professional music theory’s homemaking project was first built—and continues to operate—on exclusionary and assimilationist world-building practices. To conclude, I ask how we might pursue homemaking and world-building otherwise in coalition with contemporary abolitionist scholarship.
180. Impact of a two-step diagnostic bundle on hospital-onset Clostridioides difficile infection rates and treatment across a large health system.
Authors: Polisetty Radhika S , Hoff Brian M , Moore William J , Postelnick Michael , Wang Sheila K , Zembower Teresa , Chao Qi , Malczynski Michael , Barajas Grace , Silkaitis Christina , Salim Asra , Borkowski Jaime , Shah Rishita , Quinn Andrea , Johnicker Kyle , Liang Charlene , Chang Stephanie , Sutton Sarah H
Published: December 2022

Background

Distinguishing true Clostridioides difficile Infection (CDI) from colonization is a challenge, with nearly 20% of hospitalized adults being carriers of C. difficile. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing alone is not able to distinguish colonization from infection, leading to over-diagnosis and unnecessary treatment. Despite interventions including pre-approval by antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP), reportable hospital-onset CDI (HO-CDI) rates across our health system remained high. In 2021, we implemented a C. difficile PCR with reflex toxin enzyme immunoassay (EIA) testing strategy to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of this two-step testing algorithm bundled with education, ASP support and order set changes on HO-CDI rates and C. difficile treatment across our health system.

Methods

PCR with EIA testing algorithm was implemented between May and August 2021 across seven hospitals within the Northwestern Medicine Health System. Multifaceted education was delivered to leadership and clinicians in person and electronically to. ASP performed daily diagnostic prospective audit and management support. Clinical decision support (CDS) was incorporated into order sets to promote diagnostic stewardship (Table 1, Figure 1). Standardization of analyst-developed tracking reports allowed for longitudinal monitoring across the system and at each facility, including unit- and patient-level data. Figure 1C. Difficile Testing Algorithm PCR/Reflex Toxin EIA

Results

The HO-CDI standardized infection ratio (SIR) reduced significantly from 0.8 to 0.57 p< 0.001), and reportable HO-CDI cases reduced by 238 cases across the health system between May 2021 and March 2022. 6043 samples were tested, of which 282 (4.7%) were confirmed CDI cases (PCR+/toxin+) and 687 (11%) were non-CDI cases (PCR+/toxin-), of which 438 (67%) received CDI treatment. (Figure 2 and 3).

Figure 3 Actual versus avoided HO C. difficile cases.

Conclusion

The two-step CDI diagnostic and treatment bundle significantly reduced the SIR of HO-CDI. Although treatment of colonized patients remained high, a large number of patients safely avoided CDI treatment. Testing and education bundles can help advance antimicrobial and diagnostic stewardship by improving detection, treatment, and tracking of CDI.

Disclosures

Asra Salim, MPH, CPH, FAPIC, IRhythym Technologies Inc: Stocks/Bonds.
The Presence of Hemoglobin in Cervicovaginal Lavage Is Not Associated With Genital Schistosomiasis in Zambian Women From the BILHIV Study
Authors: Sturt Amy S , Webb Emily L , Phiri Comfort R , Mapani Joyce , Mudenda Maina , Himschoot Lisa , Kjetland Eyrun F , Mweene Tobias , Levecke Bruno , van Dam Govert J , Corstjens Paul L A M , Ayles Helen , Hayes Richard J , Francis Suzanna C , van Lieshout Lisette , Cools Piet , Hansingo Isaiah , Bustinduy Amaya L
Published: December 2022

Background

Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) occurs when Schistosoma haematobium eggs are deposited in reproductive tissue. Female genital schistosomiasis in the cervical mucosa is associated with increased vascularity. If FGS is associated with the presence of hemoglobin in cervicovaginal lavage (CVL), the use of urinary reagent strips to detect hemoglobin in CVL could supplement FGS diagnosis.

Methods

Nonmenstruating, nonpregnant, sexually active women aged 18–31 participating in the HPTN 071 (PopART) Population-Cohort were invited in 2 Zambian communities. Genital self-swabs and a urine specimen were collected at a home visit, and CVL and hand-held colposcopy were performed at a midwife led clinic visit. Urinary reagent strips were used to identify hemoglobin in CVL. Eggs and circulating anodic antigen (CAA) were detected from urine. Visual-FGS was defined as the presence of sandy patches, rubbery papules, or abnormal blood vessels. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-FGS was defined as Schistosoma deoxyribonucleic acid detected by real-time PCR on CVL or cervical or vaginal swab.

Results

Of 209 women with home genital swabs and companion CVL specimens, 66% (138 of 209) had detectable CVL hemoglobin, 13.4% (28 of 209) had PCR-defined FGS, and 17.2% (36 of 209) had visual-FGS. Active Schistosoma infection, diagnosed by CAA or urine microscopy, was present in 21.0% (44 of 209) participants. Active Schistosoma infection (P = .4), PCR-FGS (P = 0.7), and visual-FGS (P = 0.3) were not associated with CVL hemoglobin presence. Results did not differ in subgroups with high infection burden (cycle threshold < 35 or 2–3 positive genital PCR).

Conclusions

Polymerase chain reaction-FGS, visual-FGS, and active Schistosoma infection were not associated with the presence of CVL hemoglobin. Further research is needed to establish accessible community-based FGS diagnostics.
Comparing Prospective Incident Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection Rates During Successive Waves of Delta and Omicron in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Sokhela Simiso , Bosch Bronwyn , Hill Andrew , Simmons Bryony , Woods Joana , Johnstone Hilary , Madhi Shabir , Qavi Ambar , Ellis Leah , Akpomiemie Godspower , Bhaskar Esther , Levi Jacob , Falconer Jonathan , Mirchandani Manya , Perez Casas Carmen , Moller Karlien , Pilkington Victoria , Pepperrell Toby , Venter Willem Daniel Francois
Published: December 2022

In high-risk individuals in Johannesburg, during the Delta coronavirus disease 2019 wave, 22% (125/561) were positive, with 33% symptomatic (2 hospitalizations; 1 death). During Omicron, 56% (232/411) were infected, with 24% symptomatic (no hospitalizations or deaths). The remarkable speed of infection of Omicron over Delta poses challenges to conventional severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 control measures.
An Implementation Roadmap for Establishing Remote Infectious Disease Specialist Support for Consultation and Antibiotic Stewardship in Resource-Limited Settings
Authors: Livorsi Daniel J , Abdel-Massih Rima , Crnich Christopher J , Dodds-Ashley Elizabeth S , Evans Charlesnika T , Goedken Cassie Cunningham , Echevarria Kelly L , Kelly Allison A , Spires S Shaefer , Veillette John J , Vento Todd J , Jump Robin L P
Published: December 2022

Infectious Disease (ID)–trained specialists, defined as ID pharmacists and ID physicians, improve hospital care by providing consultations to patients with complicated infections and by leading programs that monitor and improve antibiotic prescribing. However, many hospitals and nursing homes lack access to ID specialists. Telehealth is an effective tool to deliver ID specialist expertise to resource-limited settings. Telehealth services are most useful when they are adapted to meet the needs and resources of the local setting. In this step-by-step guide, we describe how a tailored telehealth program can be implemented to provide remote ID specialist support for direct patient consultation and to support local antibiotic stewardship activities. We outline 3 major phases of putting a telehealth program into effect: pre-implementation, implementation, and sustainment. To increase the likelihood of success, we recommend actively involving local leadership and other stakeholders in all aspects of developing, implementing, measuring, and refining programmatic activities.
Optimizing Clinical Outcomes Through Rational Dosing Strategies: Roles of Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Modeling Tools
Authors: Chua Hubert C , Tam Vincent H
Published: December 2022

Significant progress in previous decades has led to several methodologies developed to facilitate the design of optimal antimicrobial dosing. In this review, we highlight common pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PKPD) modeling techniques and their roles in guiding rational dosing regimen design. In the early drug development phases, dose fractionation studies identify the PKPD index most closely associated with bacterial killing. Once discerned, this index is linked to clinical efficacy end points, and classification and regression tree analysis can be used to define the PKPD target goal. Monte Carlo simulations integrate PKPD and microbiological data to identify dosing strategies with a high probability of achieving the established PKPD target. Results then determine dosing regimens to investigate and/or validate the findings of randomized controlled trials. Further improvements in PKPD modeling could lead to an era of precision dosing and personalized therapeutics.
Mitochondrial DNA sequences and nuclear microsatellites reveal population genetic structure of the range-restricted hummingbirdPhaeoptila sordidain the Balsas Basin
Authors: Hernández-Soto Mariana , Licona-Vera Yuyini , Ornelas Juan Francisco
Published: December 2022

The Dusky Hummingbird Phaeoptila sordida (= Cynanthus sordidus), occurs in the Balsas Basin, a region with a complex biogeographical history, and in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley and Valles Centrales in Puebla and Oaxaca, Mexico. However, the biogeographical and evolutionary history of these two regions of Mexico is poorly understood. We aimed to understand the genetic structure and phylogeographic history of P. sordida, a range-restricted hummingbird to these two regions, as a proxy to study the evolutionary history of the Balsas Basin, by using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences and nuclear microsatellites. Geographic structure was evident for both markers; however, some discordance was observed between the mitochondrial and nuclear markers. Based on mtDNA, samples from the Balsas Basin form one haplogroup, well separated from the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley and Valles Centrales samples. In contrast to this, nuclear microsatellites uncovered two slightly different genetic clusters restricted to different habitats: samples from the Western Balsas restricted to the seasonally deciduous tropical dry forest, and samples from the Eastern Balsas-Tehuacán/Cuicatlán-Tehuantepec area in shrub and dry forested habitats. As expected by the interglacial refugia hypothesis, ENM predicted that the distribution of P. sordida was more contracted and fragmented during the Last Inter Glacial and more expanded at the Last Glacial Maximum. Consistent with that observed for other range-restricted hummingbird species, ENM predictions and a strong signal of population expansion indicate that the geographical range and population size are unstable over time, as compared to widespread hummingbird species, and that ecological and climatic factors possibly impacted its diversification. This study contributes to the debate that disputes the integrity of the Balsas Basin as a biogeographical unit and urges for the conservation of endemic species in the Balsas region and interior Oaxaca.
Odonata survival
Authors: Sanmartín-Villar Iago , Cordero-Rivera Adolfo
Published: December 2022

This chapter considers the application of mark-recapture techniques to a variety of population level phenomena, using analytical methods based on the Theory of Information to estimate individual survival. It discusses the impact of marking techniques on individuals under study, reviews the global distribution of studies using mark-recapture methods, and performs a meta-analysis of these recent studies. Next it examines how design aspects such as study duration affect survival estimates, looks at the effect of sex and age on survival and recapture rates, how female polymorphisms relate to outcomes, and reviews the individual and environmental covariates that are found to be influential in these studies. It aims to identify gaps in our knowledge on odonate survivorship, the need for longer-term studies, and the need for greater coverage of different regions and species.
Growth Models Under Austerity
Authors: Hübscher Evelyne , Sattler Thomas
Published: December 2022

Fiscal policy is an integral part of a country’s growth model. This chapter shows how governments subordinate their fiscal policy to the macroeconomic regime of their country: governments in export-led economies are two to three times more likely to pursue fiscal austerity than those in demand-led regimes. These rigid fiscal policies in many countries are not in line with voter attitudes and individual-level macroeconomic beliefs. Contrary to the economic ideas that provide the intellectual foundation of fiscal austerity, voters believe that these policies are detrimental to economic growth, but there is great variation between left and right voters. These ideological differences translate into distinct fiscal policies under left and right governments in balanced growth regimes, but not in unbalanced regimes. These results point to a mismatch between government policy, especially in export-led economies, and voter attitudes. This mismatch potentially contributes to the disillusionment of voters that has been observed in many countries.
Diffuse radio source candidate in CIZA J1358.9−4750
Authors: Kurahara Kohei , Akahori Takuya , Kale Ruta , Akamatsu Hiroki , Fujita Yutaka , Gu Liyi , Intema Huib , Nakazawa Kazuhiro , Okabe Nobuhiro , Omiya Yuki , Parekh Viral , Shimwell Timothy , Takizawa Motokazu , Van Weeren Reinout J
Published: December 2022

We report on results of our upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (uGMRT) observations for an early-stage merging galaxy cluster, CIZA J1358.9−4750 (CIZA1359), in Band-3 (300–500 MHz). We achieved the image dynamic range of ∼38000 using the direction dependent calibration and found a candidate of diffuse radio emission at 4σrms significance. The flux density of the candidate at 400 MHz, 24.04 ± 2.48 mJy, is significantly positive compared to noise, where its radio power, 2.40 × 1024 W Hz−1, is consistent with those of typical diffuse radio sources of galaxy clusters. The candidate is associated with a part of the X-ray shock front at which the Mach number reaches its maximum value of $\mathcal {M}\sim 1.7$. The spectral index (Fν ∝ να) of the candidate, α = −1.22 ± 0.33, is in agreement with an expected value derived from the standard diffusive shock acceleration (DSA) model. However, such a low Mach number with a short acceleration time would require seed cosmic rays supplied from active galactic nucleus (AGN) activities of member galaxies, as suggested in some other clusters. Indeed, we found seven AGN candidates inside the diffuse source candidate. Assuming the energy equipartition between magnetic fields and cosmic rays, the magnetic field strength of the candidate was estimated to be 2.1 μG. We also find head–tail galaxies and radio phoenixes or fossils near CIZA1359.
East Asian VLBI Network astrometry toward the extreme outer Galaxy: Kinematic distance with the proper motion of G034.84−00.95
Authors: Sakai Nobuyuki , Zhang Bo , Xu Shuangjing , Sakai Daisuke , Tamura Yoshiaki , Jike Takaaki , Jung Taehyun , Oh Chungsik , Kim Jeong-Sook , Kawaguchi Noriyuki , Imai Hiroshi , Jiang Wu , Cui Lang , Kim Soon-Wook , Jiang Pengfei , Kurayama Tomoharu , Lee Jeong Ae , Hachisuka Kazuya , Jung Dong-Kyu , Xia Bo , Li Guanghui , Honma Mareki , Kim Kee-Tae , Shen Zhi-Qiang , Wang Na
Published: December 2022

We aim to reveal the structure and kinematics of the Outer Scutum–Centaurus (OSC) arm located on the far side of the Milky Way through very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) astrometry using KaVA, which is composed of KVN (the Korean VLBI Network) and VERA (VLBI Exploration of Radio Astrometry). We report the proper motion of a 22 GHz H2O maser source, which is associated with the star-forming region G034.84−00.95, to be (μαcos δ, μδ) = (−1.61 ± 0.18, −4.29 ± 0.16) mas yr−1 in equatorial coordinates (J2000.0). We estimate the 2D kinematic distance to the source to be 18.6 ± 1.0 kpc, which is derived from the variance weighted average of kinematic distances with local standard of rest velocity and the galactic-longitude component of the measured proper motion. Our result places the source in the OSC arm and implies that G034.84−00.95 is moving away from the Galactic plane with a vertical velocity of −38 ± 16 km s−1. Since the H i supershell GS033+06−49 is located at a kinematic distance roughly equal to that of G034.84−00.95, it is expected that gas circulation occurs between the outer Galactic disk around G034.84−00.95 with a Galactocentric distance of $12.8^{+1.0}_{-0.9}\:$kpc and the halo. We evaluate possible origins of the fast vertical motion of G034.84−00.95, which are (1) supernova explosions and (2) cloud collisions with the Galactic disk. However, neither of these possibilities are matched with the results of VLBI astrometry or the spatial distributions of H ii regions and H i gas.
First Point of Contact: Can Procedural Justice Be Applied by Emergency Calltakers?
Authors: Goodier Michael , Lum Cynthia
Published: December 2022

Emergency calltakers are the first point of contact for community members requesting police services. In the current period of demands for reform in the criminal justice system, where do these calltakers fit? Prior research indicates that emergency calltakers and dispatchers play a significant role in the criminal justice response, prompting reformers to examine whether justice improvements might be achieved through this group. One area of reform—procedural justice training for emergency calltakers—often applied to direct officer–citizen interactions—has been suggested as a possible avenue for improving the justice system’s legitimacy. Drawing from insights gained through a systematic observation study of police calltakers and dispatchers, this policy analysis raises questions and caveats about applying procedural justice concepts to calltaking.
DEVELOPMENT OF SAFETY ASSESSMENT CODE FOR DECOMMISSIONING WASTE RECYCLING AND DISPOSAL
Authors: Byun Hyungi , Kim Juyub , Yoon Tae Bin , Park Jae Won
Published: December 2022

In Korea, 10 units of nuclear power plants are projected for decommissioning by 2030, which will consequently generate a large amount of decommissioning waste. It could bring about a lack in the capacity of the radioactive waste disposal facility. In this paper, a computational code, REcycling and DIsposal Safety Assessment has been developed for the safety assessment regarding the recycling and disposal of the decommissioning waste. It is composed of two modules: dose assessment module and maximum allowance concentration estimation module. The dose assessment module is intended to evaluate the exposure doses from radioactive nuclides in the wastes for each recycling or disposal scenario. The maximum allowance concentration estimation module has the function to translate the nuclides concentrations in the wastes from the exposure doses received by the end user for each scenario. The concentration of each nuclide provides the basis for the development of the technical criteria in accordance with the annual dose limit.
The call for science communication and public scholarship
Authors: Wang Monica L , Britton Olivia J , Beard Jennifer
Published: December 2022

Lay Summary

This commentary calls for a collective shift in the sciences and academia to prioritize and invest in communicating research in ways that are engaging, relevant, and accessible to public audiences. We provide the context and rationale for increasing and enhancing science communication, and identify barriers that prevent health researchers, educators, and practitioners from engaging with the public. Academic institutions need to develop and implement policies that encourage and support science communication and public scholarship initiatives that are sustainable and scalable.
Epidemiological characteristics of community-acquired pneumonia and effects from the COVID-19 pandemic in Shenzhen of China
Authors: Cheng Wenli , Li Min , Yu Susu , Peng Xinyue , Zhang Luyun , Zhou Cheng , Wu Yanjie , Zhang Wenjuan
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study aimed to observe the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the incidence of non-COVID-19 community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in Shenzhen of China, offering new ideas for evaluating the effects of non-pharmaceutical interventions.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of inpatients with pneumonia from 2017 to 2021. Epidemiological characteristics of CAP and effects from the COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed by the basic characteristics, time distribution, etiology and disease burden.

Results

There were a total of 5746 CAP inpatient cases included from 2017 to 2021. The number of CAP hospitalizations decreased during the pandemic from 2020 to 2021, with seasonal variations of being higher in spring and winter and lower in summer and autumn, whereas it was prevalent throughout the year prior to the pandemic. The children group decreased significantly during the pandemic, with a 15% decrease in the share of CAP inpatients. The detection rates of bacteria and mycoplasma decreased in CAP patients, while the detection rate of the virus increased, and the number of moderate and severe cases reduced more than that of the mild.

Conclusion

Non-pharmaceutical interventions from COVID-19 have led to a decrease in the number of CAP inpatients, especially for children, with a specific seasonal prevalence in spring and winter, when the prevention interventions should be strengthened further for adults during the pandemic.
Genomic epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in Cambodia, January 2020 to February 2021
Authors: Su Yvonne C F , Ma Jordan Z J , Ou Tey Putita , Pum Leakhena , Krang Sidonn , Raftery Philomena , Kinzer Michael H , Bohl Jennifer , Ieng Vanra , Kab Vannda , Patel Sarika , Sar Borann , Ying Wong Foong , Jayakumar Jayanthi , Horm Viseth Srey , Boukli Narjis , Yann Sokhoun , Troupin Cecile , Heang Vireak , Garcia-Rivera Jose A , Sengdoeurn Yi , Heng Seng , Lay Sreyngim , Chea Sophana , Darapheak Chau , Savuth Chin , Khalakdina Asheena , Ly Sowath , Baril Laurence , Manning Jessica E , Simone-Loriere Etienne , Duong Veasna , Dussart Philippe , Sovann Ly , Smith Gavin J D , Karlsson Erik A
Published: December 2022

The first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Cambodia was confirmed on 27 January 2020 in a traveller from Wuhan. Cambodia subsequently implemented strict travel restrictions, and although intermittent cases were reported during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, no apparent widespread community transmission was detected. Investigating the routes of severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) introduction into the country was critical for evaluating the implementation of public health interventions and assessing the effectiveness of social control measures. Genomic sequencing technologies have enabled rapid detection and monitoring of emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we detected 478 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Cambodia between 27 January 2020 and 14 February 2021, 81.3 per cent in imported cases. Among them, fifty-four SARS-CoV-2 genomes were sequenced and analysed along with representative global lineages. Despite the low number of confirmed cases, we found a high diversity of Cambodian viruses that belonged to at least seventeen distinct PANGO lineages. Phylogenetic inference of SARS-CoV-2 revealed that the genetic diversity of Cambodian viruses resulted from multiple independent introductions from diverse regions, predominantly, Eastern Asia, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Most cases were quickly isolated, limiting community spread, although there was an A.23.1 variant cluster in Phnom Penh in November 2020 that resulted in a small-scale local transmission. The overall low incidence of COVID-19 infections suggests that Cambodia’s early containment strategies, including travel restrictions, aggressive testing and strict quarantine measures, were effective in preventing large community outbreaks of COVID-19.
Molecular Characterization of Divergent Isolates of Grapevine Red Blotch Virus from Blanc du Soleil, an Interspecific Hybrid White Grapevine Cultivar
Authors: Ouro-Djobo Ashrafou , Stevens Kristian A. , Scheiner Justin , Tsolova Violeta M. , Pontasch Frances M. , McBride Sheila , Appel David N. , Al Rwahnih Maher , Alabi Olufemi J.
Published: December 2022

During routine virus screening, grapevine red blotch virus (GRBV; genus Grablovirus, family Geminiviridae) was detected in several samples of a recently released interspecific hybrid wine grapevine cultivar, Blanc du Soleil (BdS, US PP 34,483 P2, 2022). Molecular characterization of the BdS GRBV isolates revealed the presence of distinct complete genomes in nine isolates, with atypical lengths of 3,181 to 3,183 nucleotides (nt) relative to the expected 3,205 to 3,208 nt reported for GRBV isolates characterized to date globally. The difference in length was mainly due to deletions in the long intergenic region of the BdS GRBV isolates. In a phylogenetic reconstruction, the BdS GRBV isolates formed a monophyletic subclade basal to the clade II isolates to which they were more phylogenetically related than the clade I isolates. On average, complete genomes of these new isolates are 98.75% identical to each other, 96.66% identical to clade II isolates, and 92.02% identical to clade I isolates. Evolutionary analysis also revealed the occurrence of recombination in the history of these new isolates.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
No-Test Medication Abortion
Authors: Pearlman Shapiro Marit , Dethier Divya , Kahili-Heede Melissa , Kaneshiro Bliss
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE:

To summarize the effectiveness and safety outcomes of medication abortion performed without prior pelvic examination or ultrasonogram (“no-test medication abortion”).

DATA SOURCES:

We searched the MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane (including ClinicalTrials.gov), CINAHL, Global Index Medicus, and CAB Direct databases to identify relevant studies published before April 2022 using a peer-reviewed search strategy including terms such as “medication abortion” and “ultrasonography.” We contacted experts in the field for unpublished data and ongoing studies.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

We reviewed 2,423 studies using Colandr. We included studies if they presented clinical outcomes of medication abortion performed with mifepristone and misoprostol and without prior pelvic examination or ultrasonogram. We excluded studies with duplicate data. We abstracted successful abortion rates overall, as well as rates by gestational age through 63 days, 70 days and past 84 days. We abstracted complication rates, including the need for surgical evacuation, additional medications, blood transfusion, and ectopic pregnancy.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION AND RESULTS:

We included 21 studies with a total of 10,693 patients with outcome data reported. The overall efficacy of no-test medication abortion was 96.4%; 93.8% (95% CI 92.8–94.6%) through 63 days of gestation and 95.2% (95% CI 94.7–95.7%) through 70 days of gestation. The overall rate of surgical evacuation was 4.4% (95% CI 4.0–4.9), need for additional misoprostol 2.2% (95% CI 1.8–2.6), blood transfusion 0.5% (95% CI 0.3–0.6), and ectopic pregnancy 0.06% (95% CI 0.02–0.15).

CONCLUSION:

Medication abortion performed without prior pelvic examination or ultrasonogram is a safe and effective option for pregnancy termination.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION:

PROSPERO, CRD42021240739.