bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of
METTL3
attenuates renal injury and inflammation by alleviating
TAB3
m6A modifications via IGF2BP2-dependent mechanisms
Authors: Wang Jia-nan , Wang Fang , Ke Jing , Li Zeng , Xu Chuan-hui , Yang Qin , Chen Xin , He Xiao-yan , He Yuan , Suo Xiao-guo , Li Chao , Yu Ju-tao , Jiang Ling , Ni Wei-jian , Jin Juan , Liu Ming-ming , Shao Wei , Yang Chen , Gong Qian , Chen Hai-yong , Li Jun , Wu Yong-gui , Meng Xiao-ming
Published: April 2022

The role of
N
6
-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications in renal diseases is largely unknown. Here, we characterized the role of
N
6
-adenosine-methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), whose expression is elevated in renal tubules in different acute kidney injury (AKI) models as well as in human biopsies and cultured tubular epithelial cells (TECs).
METTL3
silencing alleviated renal inflammation and programmed cell death in TECs in response to stimulation by tumor necrosis factor–α (TNF-α), cisplatin, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), whereas
METTL3
overexpression had the opposite effects. Conditional knockout of
METTL3
from mouse kidneys attenuated cisplatin- and ischemic/reperfusion (I/R)–induced renal dysfunction, injury, and inflammation. Moreover,
TAB3
[TGF-β–activated kinase 1 (MAP3K7) binding protein 3] was identified as a target of METTL3 by m6A methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing and RNA sequencing. The stability of
TAB3
was increased through binding of IGF2BP2 (insulin-like growth factor 2 binding protein 2) to its m6A-modified stop codon regions. The proinflammatory effects of TAB3 were then explored both in vitro and in vivo. Adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9)–mediated
METTL3
silencing attenuated renal injury and inflammation in cisplatin- and LPS-induced AKI mouse models. We further identified Cpd-564 as a METTL3 inhibitor that had better protective effects against cisplatin- and ischemia/reperfusion-induced renal injury and inflammation than
S
-adenosyl-
l
-homocysteine, a previously identified METTL3 inhibitor. Collectively, METTL3 promoted m6A modifications of
TAB3
and enhanced its stability via IGF2BP2-dependent mechanisms. Both genetic and pharmacological inhibition of METTL3 attenuated renal injury and inflammation, suggesting that the METTL3/TAB3 axis is a potential target for treatment of AKI.
Oncolytic virus–mediated expansion of dual-specific CAR T cells improves efficacy against solid tumors in mice
Authors: Evgin Laura , Kottke Tim , Tonne Jason , Thompson Jill , Huff Amanda L. , van Vloten Jacob , Moore Madelyn , Michael Josefine , Driscoll Christopher , Pulido Jose , Swanson Eric , Kennedy Richard , Coffey Matt , Loghmani Houra , Sanchez-Perez Luis , Olivier Gloria , Harrington Kevin , Pandha Hardev , Melcher Alan , Diaz Rosa Maria , Vile Richard G.
Published: April 2022

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) encoding a variety of transgenes have been evaluated as therapeutic tools to increase the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)–modified T cells in the solid tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, using systemically delivered OVs and CAR T cells in immunocompetent mouse models, we have defined a mechanism by which OVs can potentiate CAR T cell efficacy against solid tumor models of melanoma and glioma. We show that stimulation of the native T cell receptor (TCR) with viral or virally encoded epitopes gives rise to enhanced proliferation, CAR-directed antitumor function, and distinct memory phenotypes. In vivo expansion of dual-specific (DS) CAR T cells was leveraged by in vitro preloading with oncolytic vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) or reovirus, allowing for a further in vivo expansion and reactivation of T cells by homologous boosting. This treatment led to prolonged survival of mice with subcutaneous melanoma and intracranial glioma tumors. Human CD19 CAR T cells could also be expanded in vitro with TCR reactivity against viral or virally encoded antigens and was associated with greater CAR-directed cytokine production. Our data highlight the utility of combining OV and CAR T cell therapy and show that stimulation of the native TCR can be exploited to enhance CAR T cell activity and efficacy in mice.
Impact of Clopidogrel on Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia: a National Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Caffrey Aisling R. , Appaneal Haley J. , LaPlante Kerry L. , Lopes Vrishali V. , Ulloa Erlinda R. , Nizet Victor , Sakoulas George
Published: April 2022

Activated platelets have known antimicrobial activity against
Staphylococcus aureus
. Accelerated clearance of platelets induced by
S. aureus
can result in thrombocytopenia and increased mortality in patients.
Linker-Improved Chimeric Endolysin Selectively Kills Staphylococcus aureus
In Vitro
, on Reconstituted Human Epidermis, and in a Murine Model of Skin Infection
Authors: Eichenseher Fritz , Herpers Bjorn L. , Badoux Paul , Leyva-Castillo Juan M. , Geha Raif S. , van der Zwart Mathijs , McKellar James , Janssen Ferd , de Rooij Bob , Selvakumar Lavanja , Röhrig Christian , Frieling Johan , Offerhaus Mark , Loessner Martin J. , Schmelcher Mathias
Published: April 2022

Staphylococcus aureus
causes a broad spectrum of diseases in humans and animals. It is frequently associated with inflammatory skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis, where it aggravates symptoms.
Inhibition of Streptococcus mutans Biofilm Formation by the Joint Action of Oxyresveratrol and Lactobacillus casei
Authors: Wu Jiayi , Jiang Xiaoge , Yang Qiyuan , Zhang Yuheng , Wang Chenglin , Huang Ruijie
Published: April 2022

The homeostatic imbalance in dental plaque associated with a sharp increase in the number of cariogenic bacteria such as
Streptococcus mutans
is critical for the occurrence and development of caries. Probiotic therapy can restore ecological balance by replacing cariogenic pathogens with probiotics.
Litter Commensal Bacteria Can Limit the Horizontal Gene Transfer of Antimicrobial Resistance to Salmonella in Chickens
Authors: Oladeinde Adelumola , Abdo Zaid , Zwirzitz Benjamin , Woyda Reed , Lakin Steven M. , Press Maximilian O. , Cox Nelson A. , Thomas Jesse C. , Looft Torey , Rothrock Michael J. , Zock Gregory , Plumblee Lawrence Jodie , Cudnik Denice , Ritz Casey , Aggrey Samuel E. , Liachko Ivan , Grove Jonas R. , Wiersma Crystal
Published: April 2022

Antimicrobial resistance spread is a worldwide health challenge, stemming in large part from the ability of microorganisms to share their genetic material through horizontal gene transfer. To address this issue, many countries and international organizations have adopted a One Health approach to curtail the proliferation of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria.
Zooplankton as a Transitional Host forEscherichia coliin Freshwater
Authors: Di Cesare Andrea , Riva Francesco , Colinas Noemi , Borgomaneiro Giulia , Borin Sara , Cabello-Yeves Pedro J. , Canale Claudia , Cedraro Nicholas , Citterio Barbara , Crotti Elena , Mangiaterra Gianmarco , Mapelli Francesca , Mondino Vincenzo , Vignaroli Carla , Quaranta Walter , Corno Gianluca , Fontaneto Diego , Eckert Ester M.
Published: April 2022

The contamination of freshwater with feces-derived bacteria is a major concern regarding drinking water acquisition and recreational activities. Ecological interactions promoting their persistence are still very scarcely studied. This study, which analyses the survival ofE. coliin the presence of zooplankton, is thus of ecological and water safety relevance.
Inducible MicroRNA-132 Inhibits the Production of Inflammatory Cytokines by Targeting TRAF6, TAK1, and TAB1 in Teleost Fish
Authors: Cui Junxia , Zheng Weiwei , Sun Yuena , Xu Tianjun
Published: April 2022

The innate immune response is the first line of defense against pathogen infection. Eradication of pathogen infection requires appropriate immune and inflammatory responses, but excessive inflammation may cause inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
The Reovirus σ3 Protein Inhibits NF-κB-Dependent Antiviral Signaling
Authors: McNamara Andrew J. , Brooks Austin D. , Danthi Pranav
Published: April 2022

Host cells mount a response to curb virus replication in infected cells and prevent spread of virus to neighboring, as yet uninfected, cells. The NF-κB family of proteins is important for the cell to mediate this response.
Development of the First Tractable Genetic System for Parvimonas micra, a Ubiquitous Pathobiont in Human Dysbiotic Disease
Authors: Higashi Dustin L. , McGuire Sean , Abdelrahman Yasser M. , Zou Zhengzhong , Qin Hua , Anderson David , Palmer Elizabeth A. , Kreth Jens , Merritt Justin
Published: April 2022

Parvimonas micra
is among the most highly enriched species at numerous sites of mucosal dysbiotic disease and is closely associated with numerous cancers. Despite this, little is known about
P. micra
pathobiology, which is directly attributable to its longstanding genetic intractability.
Geochemical and Nd isotopic constraints on the origin of uppermost Silurian rhyolitic rocks in the northern Appalachians (northern New Brunswick): Tectonic implications
Authors: Dostal* Jaroslav , Jutras Pierre , Wilson Reginald A.
Published: April 2022

Voluminous bimodal volcanic rocks of the Silurian (ca. 422–420 Ma) Dickie Cove Group in the Ganderia domain of northern New Brunswick, Canada, are subaerial units that were deposited in an extensional setting, with the mafic types corresponding to continental tholeiites. Felsic rocks are rhyolites with calc-alkaline affinities. They exhibit geochemical characteristics that are typical of A2-type felsic magmas, such as enrichments in the incompatible elements Zr, Nb, and Y, as well as high FeO*/(FeO* + MgO) and Ga/Al ratios. Their εNd(t) values are positive (+0.7 to +3.4) but lower than those of the associated basalts. Saturation thermometry has yielded average zircon crystallization temperature estimates for the rhyolites that are well above 900 °C. The geochemical data indicate that the felsic melts were likely sourced from heterogeneous Neoproterozoic lower crust and generated by dehydration melting triggered by heat derived from underplated mafic magma. Parent melts of the rhyolites underwent fractional crystallization in a complex magma chamber prior to eruption. The Nd isotopic data suggest that the lower crust of Ganderia is similar to that of Avalonia in northern mainland Nova Scotia, and that the two microcontinents shared a common Neoproterozoic history and origin as continental blocks rifted from neighboring parts of Gondwana. The tectono-magmatic setting of the Dickie Cove Group volcanic rocks is interpreted as being related to Pridolian, post-Salinic relaxation and slab breakoff, which generated volcanism initially constrained within the Chaleur zone of the Chaleur Bay synclinorium, a large domain of the northern Appalachians. This was followed later in the Pridolian by extensional collapse and widening of the area of magmatic activity, which then prograded into the Tobique zone farther to the southwest.
Successful novel use of tofacitinib for type II refractory coeliac disease
Authors: Grewal Jasleen Kaur , Kassardjian Ari , Weiss Guy A
Published: April 2022

Refractory coeliac disease (RCD) occurs when patients with confirmed CD have continuous or recurrent malabsorption and enteropathy after at least 12 months on a gluten-free diet. Differentiating between type I and type II RCD is key as the latter is associated with T-cell aberrancy and considered prelymphoma, with high mortality rates. Current treatment regimens for type II RCD include corticosteroids, biologics and chemotherapy, but there are no proven therapies for this serious condition. Our patient is a middle-aged woman who developed postpartum type II RCD. When she failed multiple drug classes, we did a trial of tofacitinib. Our clinical experience with use of a janus kinase inhibitor was successful, with no associated adverse events. This is the first report in the literature of RCD remission in response to tofacitinib. The use of this novel agent shows promise in reversing this potentially fatal condition.
Teprotumumab-associated chronic hearing loss screening and proposed treatments
Authors: Chow Audrey , Silkiss Rona Z
Published: April 2022

We report a case of a woman in her 50s with chronic teprotumumab-associated sensorineural hearing loss. The patient presented with chronic thyroid eye disease with proptosis and diplopia despite systemic thyroid control and orbital decompression. She was started on teprotumumab but developed tinnitus after the third dose, followed by frank hearing loss after the fifth dose. Her audiogram showed bilateral mild to moderate-severe hearing loss, which was significantly worse compared with her baseline audiogram obtained prior to treatment. Teprotumumab was immediately stopped, however repeat audiogram 6 weeks later showed no improvement. Given potentially irreversible sensorineural hearing loss, we recommend close monitoring with regular audiometric testing before, during and after teprotumumab therapy and propose potential treatment to reverse its effects in the ear.
Posterior urethral valves and urachal cyst: an unusual combination
Authors: Garriboli Massimo , Dzwigala Monica , Clothier Joanna
Published: April 2022

Combination of posterior urethral valves and urachus remnants has been described as rare occurrence. We report a case of a baby boy with normal antenatal scans, in whom the presence of large urachal cyst and posterior urethral valves causing high pressure bladder and chronic kidney disease was found. The patient underwent ablation of posterior urethral valves at 23 days of life and urachal cyst removal at age of 4 and a half months.
Perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare communication in a nationally representative cross-sectional survey of family caregivers
Authors: Bratches Reed W R , Freundlich Noah Z , Dionne-Odom J Nicholas , O'Malley A James , Barr Paul J
Published: April 2022

Objective

To understand the perceptions of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare communication with family caregivers.

Design

Nationally representative survey.

Setting

USA (national).

Participants

340 family caregivers, demographically representative of the US population by race/ethnicity.

Primary outcome measures

Communication outcomes (feeling involved by the provider, feeling involved by the care recipient, feeling more encouraged to be involved in care, feeling contributory to discussions, feeling questions are being answered), behavioural/wellness outcomes (feeling anxious, feeling isolated, feeling it is easier to attend the clinic visit), and desire to continue using telemedicine.

Results

Having less than a college degree was associated with decreased odds of feeling involved by the provider (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.26 to 0.83; p=0.01), feeling involved by the care recipient (OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.24 to 0.79; p=0.01), feeling more encouraged to be involved in care (OR 0.49; 95% CI 0.27 to 0.86; p=0.01), feeling like they contribute to discussions (OR 0.45; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.82; p=0.01) and feeling like their questions are being answered (OR 0.33; 95% CI 0.18 to 0.60; p<0.001).

Conclusion

In our sample, the shift to telemedicine during COVID-19 was well received but caregivers of low educational attainment reported poorer health communication, and a greater proportion of black/African American and Hispanic caregivers reported a desire to return to in-person visits. There is an opportunity to improve health systems and increase equity as telemedicine becomes more widespread.
Why are women considering ovarian tissue cryopreservation to preserve reproductive and hormonal ovarian function? A qualitative study protocol
Authors: Khattak Hajra , Gallos Ioannis , Coomarasamy Arri , Topping AE
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Current fertility preservation options available to women are oocyte cryopreservation (egg freezing) or embryo cryopreservation. A newer procedure, ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC), has become available in some centres, which offers another option for women and girls considering fertility preservation. These procedures are commonly offered to women about to undergo treatments for cancer. OTC involves removing sections of ovarian tissue and cryopreserving it for future reimplantation, often several years later. OTC offers girls and women who may become infertile with optionality and the possibility of pregnancy. OTC has potential for other applications, including restoring ovarian endocrine function beyond biological menopause. This is not without controversy but has led to some women considering undergoing the procedure for purposes of ovarian hormonal preservation (conservation of ovarian endocrine function). OTC is invasive, involves two surgical procedures with concomitant risks and can be costly. Understanding why women may consider and ultimately undergo OTC is timely, so that evidence-based and women-centred care can be provided.

Methods

A pragmatic narrative qualitative design will be used. A purposive sample of women aged 18–45 who are considering, or have sought, OTC will be recruited over 1-year period. Potential participants will be approached via a clinic that offers OTC on a private basis or via social media.

Analysis

Participant interviews will be audio and, if consented, video recorded. These will be conducted face-to-face or virtually. The recordings will be transcribed verbatim and analysed using a thematic analysis approach supported by NVivo software.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted by the Institutional Ethical Review ERN_19–1578A. We expect to disseminate the findings of this study through journal articles, conference presentations and multimedia to public.
Efficacy and safety of osteopathic manipulative treatment: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Bagagiolo Donatella , Rosa Debora , Borrelli Francesca
Published: April 2022

Objective

To summarise the available clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) for different conditions.

Design

Overview of systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs). PROSPERO CRD42020170983.

Data sources

An electronic search was performed using seven databases: PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, JBI, Prospero and Cochrane Library, from their inception until November 2021.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

SRs and MAs of randomised controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of OMT for any condition were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

The data were independently extracted by two authors. The AMSTAR-2 tool was used to assess the methodological quality of the SRs and MAs. The overview was conducted and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement.

Results

The literature search revealed nine SRs or MAs conducted between 2013 and 2020 with 55 primary trials involving 3740 participants. The SRs reported a wide range of conditions including acute and chronic non-specific low back pain (NSLBP, four SRs), chronic non-specific neck pain (CNSNP, one SR), chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP, one SR), paediatric (one SR), neurological (primary headache, one SR) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS, one SR). Although with a different effect size and quality of evidence, MAs reported that OMT is more effective than comparators in reducing pain and improving functional status in acute/chronic NSLBP, CNSNP and CNCP. Due to small sample size, presence of conflicting results and high heterogeneity, questionable evidence existed on OMT efficacy for paediatric conditions, primary headache and IBS.

No adverse events were reported in most SRs. According to AMSTAR-2, the methodological quality of the included SRs was rated low or critically low.

Conclusion

Based on the currently available SRs and MAs, promising evidence suggests the possible effectiveness of OMT for musculoskeletal disorders. Limited and inconclusive evidence occurs for paediatric conditions, primary headache and IBS. Further well-conducted SRs and MAs are needed to confirm and extend the efficacy and safety of OMT.
Association of maternal depression and anxiety with toddler social-emotional and cognitive development in South Africa: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Shuffrey Lauren C , Sania Ayesha , Brito Natalie H , Potter Mandy , Springer Priscilla , Lucchini Maristella , Rayport Yael K , Du Plessis Carlie , Odendaal Hein J , Fifer William P
Published: April 2022

Objective

A robust literature has identified associations between prenatal maternal depression and adverse child social-emotional and cognitive outcomes. The majority of prior research is from high-income countries despite increased reporting of perinatal depression in low/middle-income countries (LMICs). Additionally, despite the comorbidity between depression and anxiety, few prior studies have examined their joint impact on child neurodevelopment. The objective of the current analysis was to examine associations between prenatal maternal depression and anxiety with child social-emotional and cognitive development in a cohort from the Western Cape Province of South Africa.

Design

Prenatal maternal depression and anxiety were measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Scale at 20–24 weeks’ gestation. Child neurobehaviour was assessed at age 3 using the Brief Infant-Toddler Social Emotional Assessment and the Bayley Scales of Infant Development III Screening Test (BSID-III ST). We used linear regression models to examine the independent and joint association between prenatal maternal depression, anxiety and child developmental outcomes.

Results

Participants consisted of 600 maternal-infant dyads (274 females; gestational age at birth: 38.89 weeks±2.03). Children born to mothers with both prenatal depression and trait anxiety had higher social-emotional problems (mean difference: 4.66; 95% CI 3.43 to 5.90) compared with children born to mothers with no prenatal depression or trait anxiety, each condition alone, or compared with mothers with depression and state anxiety. Additionally, children born to mothers with prenatal maternal depression and trait anxiety had the greatest reduction in mean cognitive scores on the BSID-III ST (mean difference: −1.04; 95% CI −1.99 to –0.08).

Conclusions

The observed association between comorbid prenatal maternal depression and chronic anxiety with subsequent child social-emotional and cognitive development underscores the need for targeting mental health support among perinatal women in LMICs to improve long-term child neurobehavioural outcomes.
Impact of COVID-19 shocks, precarity and mediating resources on the mental health of residents of share housing in Victoria, Australia: an analysis of data from a two-wave survey
Authors: Raynor Katrina , Panza Laura , Bentley Rebecca
Published: April 2022

Objectives

COVID-19 lockdown measures have challenged people’s mental health, especially among economically vulnerable households. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of exposure to COVID-19 shocks (defined as job loss, living cost pressures and changing housing conditions throughout the lockdown period) and double precarity (defined as precarity in housing and employment) on mental health outcomes for members of share households as well as the mediating effects of a range of resources.

Design

We conducted a two-wave survey of occupants of share housing in June and October 2020 during a prolonged period of population lockdown. Research design involved fixed effects ordered logit regression models to assess the mental health consequences of baseline precarity and COVID-related shocks.

Setting

Victoria, Australia.

Participants

We surveyed 293 occupants of share houses (mean age 34 SD 11.5, 56% female). Members of share houses (where individuals are unrelated adults and not in a romantic relationship) are more likely to be young, casually employed, visa-holders and low-income.

Outcome measures

We measured household composition, housing and employment precarity, access to government support, household crowding, social networks and COVID-19 shocks. We used a self-reported measure of mental health.

Results

Those exposed to COVID-19 shocks reported a 2.7 times higher odds of mental health deterioration (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.53 to 4.85). People exposed to double precarity (precarity in both housing and employment) reported 2.4 times higher odds of mental health deterioration (OR 2.4, 95% CI 0.99 to 5.69). Housing inadequacy and lack of access to sufficient government payments explained 14.7% and 7% of the total effect of double precarity on mental health, respectively.

Conclusions

Results indicate that residents of group households characterised by pre-existing precarity were vulnerable to negative mental health effects during lockdown. Access to sufficient government payments and adequate housing buffered this negative effect.
Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigating Safety and efficAcy of MLC901 in post-traUmatic bRAin Injury: the SAMURAI study protocol
Authors: Pilipenko Pavel , Ivanova Anna Andreevna , Kotsiubinskaya Yulia Vadimovna , Feigin Valery , Majdan Marek , Grigoryeva Vera Naumovna , Khrulev Alexey Yevgenievich
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death in young adults globally and 90% of cases are mild TBI. Treatment to facilitate recovery after TBI is needed. Traditional medicine MLC901 (NeuroAiD II) with neuroprotective and neuroproliferative properties in cellular and animal models of brain injury showed TBI-associated cognitive improvement in mild or moderate TBI.

Methods and analysis

This is a randomised placebo-controlled trial, with 6-month treatment and 9-month follow-up, to determine the safety and efficacy of MLC901 in improving cognitive function in patients with cognitive impairment following mild TBI. This multicentre trial is conducted at the research centres of six hospitals/institutions in Russia. The primary outcome is to determine the effect of MLC901 on complex attention using the CNS Vital Signs (CNS-VS) online neurological test after 6-month treatment in patients receiving MLC901 compared with placebo. Secondary outcomes include other cognitive domains of CNS-VS and Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire. The exploratory endpoints include Quality of Life after Brain Injury, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and evaluation of improved neurological parameters 3 months after treatment completion. In addition, treatment compliance, concomitant therapies and adverse events will be collected. Investigators will use a secured online system for data entry.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the ethic committee of Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (No: 58074). The results of this study will be published in a peer-review journal and presented at international conferences as poster presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT04861688.
Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on antenatal care utilisation in Kenya: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Landrian Amanda , Mboya John , Golub Ginger , Moucheraud Corrina , Kepha Stella , Sudhinaraset May
Published: April 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of COVID-19 on antenatal care (ANC) utilisation in Kenya, including women’s reports of COVID-related barriers to ANC and correlates at the individual and household levels.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Six public and private health facilities and associated catchment areas in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties in Kenya.

Participants

Data were collected from 1729 women, including 1189 women who delivered in healthcare facilities before the COVID-19 pandemic (from September 2019–January 2020) and 540 women who delivered during the pandemic (from July through November 2020). Women who delivered during COVID-19 were sampled from the same catchment areas as the original sample of women who delivered before to compare ANC utilisation.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Timing of ANC initiation, number of ANC visits and adequate ANC utilisation were primary outcome measures. Among only women who delivered during COVID-19 only, we explored women’s reports of the pandemic having affected their ability to access or attend ANC as a secondary outcome of interest.

Results

Women who delivered during COVID-19 had significantly higher odds of delayed ANC initiation (ie, beginning ANC during the second vs first trimester) than women who delivered before (aOR 1.72, 95% CI 1.24 to 2.37), although no significant differences were detected in the odds of attending 4–7 or ≥8 ANC visits versus <4 ANC visits, respectively (aOR 1.12, 95% CI 0.86 to 1.44 and aOR 1.46, 95% CI 0.74 to 2.86). Nearly half (n=255/540; 47%) of women who delivered during COVID-19 reported that the pandemic affected their ability to access ANC.

Conclusions

Strategies are needed to mitigate disruptions to ANC among pregnant women during pandemics and other public health, environmental, or political emergencies.
Writing the worlds of genomic medicine: experiences of using participatory-writing to understand life with rare conditions
Authors: Gorman Richard , Farsides Bobbie
Published: April 2022

The diagnostic and treatment possibilities made possible by the development and subsequent mainstreaming of clinical genomics services have the potential to profoundly change the experiences of families affected by rare genetic conditions. Understanding the potentials of genomic medicine requires that we consider the perspectives of those who engage with such services; there are substantial social implications involved. There are increasing calls to think more creatively, and draw on more participatory approaches, in evoking rich accounts of lived experience. In this article, we discuss our rationale for, and experiences of, using ‘participatory-writing’ to understand the diverse, variable and multilayered everyday lives of families and how these correspond with the emerging, rapidly changing and complex field of genomic medicine. Participatory-writing has many benefits as a method for social inquiry. Writing can be expressive and self-revelatory, providing insight into personal and sensitive topics. Writing together produces new conversations and relationships. Pieces written by participants have the potential to affect readers, evoking and enlivening research and prompting professional change. Working with a writing tutor, we organised a participatory-writing programme for families touched by genetic conditions. This involved a series of workshops with an emphasis on building confidence in expressing lived experience through experimenting with different writing techniques. Afterwards we arranged reflective interviews with participants. We drew on dialogical narrative analysis to engage with participants’ written pieces, and highlight what everyday life is like for the people who live with, and care for, those with genetic conditions. The stories produced through our writing-groups unfold the implications of new genomic technologies, illuminating how genomics acts to (and likewise, fails to) reconfigure aspects of people’s lives outside of the clinic, while simultaneously existing as a sociotechnical frame that can eclipse the wider contexts, challenges and liveliness of life with rare genetic conditions.
Assessment of online self-testing and self-sampling service providers for sexually transmitted infections against national standards in the UK in 2020
Authors: Clarke Eleanor , Horner Paddy J , Muir Peter , Turner Katy M E , Harding-Esch Emma Michele
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Online testing for STIs may help overcome barriers of traditional face-to-face testing, such as stigma and inconvenience. However, regulation of these online tests is lacking, and the quality of services is variable, with potential short-term and long-term personal, clinical and public health implications. This study aimed to evaluate online self-testing and self-sampling service providers in the UK against national standards.

Methods

Providers of online STI tests (self-sampling and self-testing) in the UK were identified by an internet search of Google and Amazon (June 2020). Website information on tests and associated services was collected and further information was requested from providers via an online survey, sent twice (July 2020, April 2021). The information obtained was compared with British Association for Sexual Health and HIV and Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare guidelines and standards for diagnostics and STI management.

Results

31 providers were identified: 13 self-test, 18 self-sample and 2 laboratories that serviced multiple providers. Seven responded to the online survey. Many conflicts with national guidelines were identified, including: lack of health promotion information, lack of sexual history taking, use of tests licensed for professional-use only marketed for self-testing, inappropriate infections tested for, incorrect specimen type used and lack of advice for postdiagnosis management.

Conclusions

Very few online providers met the national STI management standards assessed, and there is concern that this will also be the case for service provision aspects that were not covered by this study. For-profit providers were the least compliant, with concerning implications for patient care and public health. Regulatory change is urgently needed to ensure that all online providers are compliant with national guidelines to ensure high-quality patient care, and providers are held to account if non-compliant.
The minimal UV-induced effective QCD axion theory
Authors: Gao Yu , Li Tianjun , Yang Qiaoli
Published: April 2022

The characteristic axion couplings could be generated via effective couplings between the Standard Model (SM) fermions to a pseudo-Goldstone from a high-scale U(1) Peccei–Quinn (PQ) symmetry breaking. Assuming that the UV-induced effective operators generate necessary couplings before the PQ symmetry breaking, and any low-scale couplings to the SM are restricted to the Yukawa sector, three minimal natural scenarios can be formulated, which provide a connection between the QCD axions and mediators at the GUT/string scales. We find that the PQ symmetry breaking scale could be about [Formula: see text] GeV, higher than the classical QCD dark matter axion window but possible if the anthropic window is considered. We also propose an experiment to probe such scenarios. If the dark matter axion is discovered, they might suggest that we live in an atypical Hubble volume.
Power Monitoring Image Encryption Transmission Method Based on Internet of Things
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Tang Ming , Zou Haodong
Published: April 2022

In order to be able to achieve state maintenance, keep historical data of the operation of each system, improve the precision of computer room management, improve work efficiency, reduce the work intensity of computer room managers, and reduce manual errors and potential accidents, this paper combines the Internet of Things technology to construct an image encryption transmission method that can be used for power monitoring. Moreover, this paper constructs a power system intelligent monitoring system based on the Internet of Things, and encrypts relevant data. In addition, this paper proposes a surveillance video encryption algorithm based on foreground and background separation. This video encryption algorithm is different from ordinary video encryption methods. It fully taps the characteristics of the surveillance video taken by a still camera. According to the experimental research results, it can be seen that the power monitoring image encryption transmission system based on the Internet of Things constructed in this paper has good performance in power monitoring image processing, image encryption, image transmission, etc. The evaluation results of the three functional parameters are all above 80%, which have great advantages compared with traditional algorithms. Therefore, the method proposed in this paper has good practical effects.
New results on quadruple Roman domination in graphs
Authors: Amjadi J. , Khalili N.
Published: April 2022

Let [Formula: see text] be an integer and [Formula: see text] be a simple graph with vertex set [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be a function that assigns label from the set [Formula: see text] to the vertices of a graph [Formula: see text]. For a vertex [Formula: see text], the active neighborhood of [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], is the set of vertices [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text]. A [Formula: see text]-RDF is a function [Formula: see text] satisfying the condition that for any vertex [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. The weight of a [Formula: see text]-RDF is [Formula: see text]. The [Formula: see text]-Roman domination number [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is the minimum weight of an [Formula: see text]-RDF on [Formula: see text]. The case [Formula: see text] is called quadruple Roman domination number. In this paper, we first establish an upper bound for quadruple Roman domination number of graphs with minimum degree two, and then we derive a Nordhaus–Gaddum bound on the quadruple Roman domination number of graphs.
How do Computer Science Students Make Decisions in Ethical Situations? Implications for Teaching Computing Ethics based on a Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Hedayati-Mehdiabadi Amir
Published: April 2022

The daily influence of new technologies on shaping and reshaping human lives necessitates attention to the ethical development of the future computing workforce. To improve computer science students’ ethical decision-making, it is important to know how they make decisions when they face ethical issues. This article contributes to the research and practice of computer ethics education by identifying the factors that influence ethical decision-making of computer science students and providing implications to improve the process. Using a constructivist grounded theory approach, the data from the text of the students’ discussion postings on three ethical scenarios in computer science and the follow-up interviews were analyzed. Based on the analysis, relating to real-life stories, thoughtfulness about responsibilities that come from the technical knowledge of developers, showing care for users or others who might be affected, and recognition of fallacies, contributed to better ethical decision-making. On the other hand, falling for fallacies and empathy for developers negatively influenced students' ethical decision-making process. Based on the findings, this study presents a model of factors that influence the ethical decision-making process of computer science students, along with implications for future researchers and computer ethics educators.
Neural Architecture Search Survey: A Hardware Perspective
Authors: Chitty-Venkata Krishna Teja , Somani Arun K.
Published: April 2022

We review the problem of automating hardware-aware architectural design process of Deep Neural Networks (DNNs). The field of Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) algorithm design has led to advancements in many fields, such as computer vision, virtual reality, and autonomous driving. The end-to-end design process of a CNN is a challenging and time-consuming task, as it requires expertise in multiple areas such as signal and image processing, neural networks, and optimization. At the same time, several hardware platforms, general- and special-purpose, have equally contributed to the training and deployment of these complex networks in a different setting.
Hardware-Aware Neural Architecture Search
(HW-NAS) automates the architectural design process of DNNs to alleviate human effort and generate efficient models accomplishing acceptable accuracy-performance tradeoffs. The goal of this article is to provide insights and understanding of HW-NAS techniques for various hardware platforms (MCU, CPU, GPU, ASIC, FPGA, ReRAM, DSP, and VPU), followed by the co-search methodologies of neural algorithm and hardware accelerator specifications.
Tensor Slices: FPGA Building Blocks For The Deep Learning Era
Authors: Arora Aman , Ghosh Moinak , Mehta Samidh , Betz Vaughn , John Lizy K.
Published: April 2022

FPGAs are well-suited for accelerating deep learning (DL) applications owing to the rapidly changing algorithms, network architectures and computation requirements in this field. However, the generic building blocks available on traditional FPGAs limit the acceleration that can be achieved. Many modifications to FPGA architecture have been proposed and deployed including adding specialized artificial intelligence (AI) processing engines, adding support for smaller precision math like 8-bit fixed point and IEEE half-precision (fp16) in DSP slices, adding shadow multipliers in logic blocks, etc. In this paper, we describe replacing a portion of the FPGA’s programmable logic area with Tensor Slices. These slices have a systolic array of processing elements at their heart that support multiple tensor operations, multiple dynamically-selectable precisions and can be dynamically fractured into individual multipliers and MACs (multiply-and-accumulate). These slices have a local crossbar at the inputs that helps with easing the routing pressure caused by a large block on the FPGA. Adding these DL-specific coarse-grained hard blocks to FPGAs increases their compute density and makes them even better hardware accelerators for DL applications, while still keeping the vast majority of the real estate on the FPGA programmable at fine-grain.
DECENT: A Decentralized Configurator for Controlling Elasticity in Dynamic Edge Networks
Authors: Murturi Ilir , Dustdar Schahram
Published: April 2022

Recent advancements in distributed systems have enabled deploying low-latency and highly resilient edge applications close to the IoT domain at the edge of the network. The broad range of edge application requirements combined with heterogeneous, resource-constrained, and dynamic edge networks make it particularly challenging to configure and deploy them. Besides that, missing elastic capabilities on the edge makes it difficult to operate such applications under dynamic workloads. To this end, this article proposes a lightweight, self-adaptive, and decentralized mechanism (DECENT) for (1) deploying edge applications on edge resources and on premises of Edge-Cloud infrastructure and (2) controlling elasticity requirements. DECENT enables developers to characterize their edge applications by specifying elasticity requirements, which are automatically captured, interpreted, and enforced by our decentralized elasticity interpreters. In response to dynamic workloads, edge applications automatically adapt in compliance with their elasticity requirements. We discuss the architecture, processes of the approach, and the experiment conducted on a real-world testbed to validate its feasibility on low-powered edge devices. Furthermore, we show performance and adaptation aspects through an edge safety application and its evolution in elasticity space (i.e., cost, resource, and quality).
Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Membranes: Novel Synthesis Methods and Progress Toward Industrial Use
Authors: Lee Dennis T. , Corkery Peter , Park Sunghwan , Jeong Hae-Kwon , Tsapatsis Michael
Published: April 2022

In the last decade, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) have been studied extensively for their potential as selective separation membranes. In this review, we highlight unique structural properties of ZIFs that allow them to achieve certain important separations, like that of propylene from propane, and summarize the state of the art in ZIF thin-film deposition on porous substrates and their modification by postsynthesis treatments. We also review the reported membrane performance for representative membrane synthesis approaches and attempt to rank the synthesis methods with respect to potential for scalability. To compare the dependence of membrane performance on membrane synthesis methods and operating conditions, we map out fluxes and separation factors of selected ZIF-8 membranes for propylene/propane separation. Finally, we provide future directions considering the importance of further improvements in scalability, cost effectiveness, and stable performance under industrially relevant conditions.
Sociology of Whiteness
Authors: McDermott Monica , Ferguson Annie
Published: April 2022

The past 20 years have witnessed a tremendous accumulation of research in whiteness studies in general, and in the sociology of whiteness in particular. In contrast to the earliest days of research in this subfield, much recent work has moved beyond preoccupations with whiteness as a seemingly invisible, default racial category to instead consider whiteness as a complex identity and basis of structural privilege and neocolonial dominance. Predominantly autobiographical and strictly theoretical work has been augmented by sophisticated empirical studies from a variety of methodological traditions. Contemporary scholars continue to grapple with epistemological concerns and the issue of how to dismantle that which is totalizing and hegemonic.
Patient-Reported Measures of the Effects of Vision Impairments and Low Vision Rehabilitation on Functioning in Daily Life
Authors: Massof Robert W.
Published: April 2022

The quantification of vision impairments dates to the mid-nineteenth century with standardization of visual acuity and visual field measures in the eye clinic. Attempts to quantify the impact of vision impairments on patients’ lives did not receive clinical attention until the close of the twentieth century. Although formal psychometric theories and measurement instruments were well developed and commonplace in educational testing, as well as in various areas in psychology and rehabilitation medicine, the late start applying them to clinical vision research created a vacuum that invited poorly developed and poorly functioning instruments and analytic methods. Although this research is still burdened with legacy instruments, mandates by regulatory agencies to include the patients’ perspectives and preferences in the evaluation of clinical outcomes have stimulated the development and validation of self-report instruments grounded in modern psychometric theory and methods. Here I review the progress and accomplishments of applying modern psychometrics to clinical vision research.
Copper-Palladium Core-Shell Bifunctional Nanoelectrocatalyst for Ethanol Oxidation and Hydrogen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Naveen Bommireddy , Rajendra Kumar Reddy Gajjala , Suresh Kumar Palathedath
Published: April 2022

Ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are two of the most important technical challenges during the manifestation of ethanol and H2-O2 fuel cells. Herein we explore the electrocatalytic activity of copper-palladium core-shell nanostructures on pencil graphite (Cu@Pd/PGE) for EOR and HER. A maximum peak current density of 261 ± 11 mA cm−2 with excellent retention for 1000 potential cycling is observed for EOR. High performance liquid chromatography and Raman analysis indicate upto 12-electron transfer oxidation with the formation of carbon dioxide or carbonate, which imply the superiority of the catalyst. High HER current near to its thermodynamic potential of ∼0 V vs RHE, together with a stable performance for 1000 voltammetric cycles, make Cu@Pd/PGE as a potential catalyst for HER in acidic media. The catalytic efficiency is also manifested by the well resolved voltammetric features during HER activity with a Tafel slope comparable to commercial Pt/C catalysts. The excellent bifunctional activity of Cu@Pd/PGE provides a new route for commercialisation of low-cost electrocatalysts for fuel cell applications.