bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic Perspectives on the Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant
Authors: Ma Wentai , Yang Jing , Fu Haoyi , Su Chao , Yu Caixia , Wang Qihui , de Vasconcelos Ana Tereza Ribeiro , Bazykin Georgii A. , Bao Yiming , Li Mingkun
Published: January 2022

A new variant of concern for SARS-CoV-2, Omicron (B.1.1.529), was designated by the World Health Organization on November 26, 2021. This study analyzed the viral genome sequencing data of 108 samples collected from patients infected with Omicron. First, we found that the enrichment efficiency of viral nucleic acids was reduced due to mutations in the region where the primers anneal to. Second, the Omicron variant possesses an excessive number of mutations compared to other variants circulating at the same time (62 vs. 45), especially in the Spike gene. Mutations in the Spike gene confer alterations in 32 amino acid residues, which was more than those observed in other SARS-CoV-2 variants. Moreover, a large number of nonsynonymous mutations occur in the codons for the amino acid residues located on the surface of the Spike protein, which could potentially affect the replication, infectivity, and antigenicity of SARS-CoV-2. Third, there are 53 mutations between the Omicron variant and its closest sequences available in public databases. Many of those mutations were rarely observed in the public database and had a low mutation rate. In addition, the linkage disequilibrium between these mutations were low, with a limited number of mutations (6) concurrently observed in the same genome, suggesting that the Omicron variant would be in a different evolutionary branch from the currently prevalent variants. To improve our ability to detect and track the source of new variants rapidly, it is imperative to further strengthen genomic surveillance and data sharing globally in a timely manner.
An elite broadly neutralizing antibody protects SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant challenge
Authors: Zhou Biao , Zhou Runhong , Chan Jasper Fuk-Woo , Luo Mengxiao , Peng Qiaoli , Yuan Shuofeng , Mok Bobo Wing-Yee , Chen Bohao , Wang Pui , Poon Vincent Kwok-Man , Chu Hin , Chan Chris Chung-Sing , Tsang Jessica Oi-Ling , Chan Chris Chun-Yiu , Au Ka-Kit , Man Hiu-On , Lu Lu , To Kelvin Kai-Wang , Chen Honglin , Yuen Kwok-Yung , Chen Zhiwei
Published: January 2022

The strikingly high transmissibility and antibody evasion of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant have posted great challenges on the efficacy of current vaccines and antibody immunotherapy.Here, we screened 34 BNT162b2-vaccinees and cloned a public broadly neutralizing antibody (bNAb) ZCB11 from an elite vaccinee. ZCB11 neutralized all authentic SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs), including Omicron and OmicronR346K with potent IC50 concentrations of 36.8 and 11.7 ng/mL, respectively. Functional analysis demonstrated that ZCB11 targeted viral receptor-binding domain (RBD) and competed strongly with ZB8, a known RBD-specific class II NAb. Pseudovirus-based mapping of 57 naturally occurred single mutations or deletions revealed that only S371L resulted in 11-fold neutralization resistance, but this phenotype was not observed in the Omicron variant. Furthermore,prophylactic ZCB11 administration protected lung infection against both the circulating pandemic Delta and Omicron variants in golden Syrian hamsters. These results demonstrated that vaccine-induced ZCB11 is a promising bNAb for immunotherapy against pandemic SARS-CoV-2 VOCs.
Accurate and robust inference of microbial growth dynamics from metagenomic sequencing reveals personalized growth rates
Authors: Joseph Tyler A. , Chlenski Philippe , Litman Aviya , Korem Tal , Pe'er Itsik
Published: January 2022

Patterns of sequencing coverage along a bacterial genome—summarized by a peak-to-trough ratio (PTR)—have been shown to accurately reflect microbial growth rates, revealing a new facet of microbial dynamics and host–microbe interactions. Here, we introduce Compute PTR (CoPTR): a tool for computing PTRs from complete reference genomes and assemblies. Using simulations and data from growth experiments in simple and complex communities, we show that CoPTR is more accurate than the current state of the art while also providing more PTR estimates overall. We further develop a theory formalizing a biological interpretation for PTRs. Using a reference database of 2935 species, we applied CoPTR to a case-control study of 1304 metagenomic samples from 106 individuals with inflammatory bowel disease. We show that growth rates are personalized, are only loosely correlated with relative abundances, and are associated with disease status. We conclude by showing how PTRs can be combined with relative abundances and metabolomics to investigate their effect on the microbiome.
Impact of OTT media on the society: insights from path analysis
Authors: Prasad S. Shyam
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The proliferation of the internet has enabled over-the-top (OTT) media to spread rapidly. It is now at the threshold of creating a huge social impact. However, there have been no studies so far that have examined the impact of OTT media on society, family and individuals. This study proposes to investigate the same and discover its impact on the family, society and whether it has any effect on individuals' career or education and one's health.

Design/methodology/approach

Path analysis was used to investigate the patterns of the effect of OTT on the family and society. This method was chosen since it allows to examine the influences within a system of variables and gain insights into the OTT media's impact. The responses were collected through an online questionnaire.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights into the impact of OTT media. It reveals some interesting and crucial insights on its influence.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, the research results do not establish any causal relationships. Since the survey was conducted during the pandemic, further research during “normal” time is suggested.

Practical implications

The paper discloses the powerful and growing OTT media's significance.

Social implications

With watching OTT emerging very rapidly as a powerful channel of entertainment, what people see is very important. Hence, the purpose of this empirical study to investigate the influence of OTT media on individual, family and society is crucial and topical.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to understand OTT media's influence.
Natural resources and economic growth: evidence from Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Tahir Muhammad , Burki Umar , Hayat Arshad
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This paper explores the relationship between natural resources and economic growth of Brunei Darussalam, an underresearched area in the available literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Annual data are sourced from reliable sources for the period 1989–2020. Appropriate cointegration techniques for time series data are employed to estimate the specified models and extract results.

Findings

The results provide evidence about the positive and significant role that natural resources have played in the economic growth of Brunei Darussalam. Similarly, trade openness and domestic investment have also positively and significantly impacted the long-run economic growth. On the other hand, the impacts of government expenditure and the growth of human capital on economic growth are although positive but insignificant statistically in the long run. The short-run results show that natural resources, government expenditures and domestic investment have influenced economic growth both positively and significantly. Moreover, the positive and significant impact of trade openness on economic growth, which was observed in the long run, turned negative and insignificant in the short run. Finally, the insignificant positive relationship between the growth of human capital and economic growth observed in the long run remained the same in the short run.

Originality/value

This paper studies the resource curse hypothesis for Brunei Darussalam for the first time, and therefore, the findings will be of significant interest for policymakers and researchers.
“Just because people are old, just because they're ill…” dignity matters in district nursing
Authors: Stevens Emma , Price Liz , Walker Liz
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the concept and practice, of dignity as understood and experienced by older adults and district nursing staff. The paper adds a new, nuanced, understanding of safeguarding possibilities in the context of district nursing care delivered in the home.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used an ethnographic methodology involving observations of care between community district nursing clinicians and patients (n = 62) and semi-structured interviews with nursing staff (n = 11) and older adult recipients of district nursing care (n = 11) in England.

Findings

Abuse is less likely to occur when clinicians are maintaining the dignity of their patients. The themes of time and space are used to demonstrate some fundamental ways in which dignity manifests. The absence of dignity offers opportunities for abuse and neglect to thrive; therefore, both time and space are essential safeguarding considerations. Dignity is influenced by time and how it is experienced temporally, but nurses are not allocated time to “do dignity”, an arguably essential component of the caregiving role, yet one that can become marginalised. The home-clinic exists as a clinical space requiring careful management to ensure it is also an environment of dignity that can safeguard older adults.

Practical implications

District nurses have both a proactive and reactive role in ensuring their patients remain safeguarded. By ensuring care is delivered with dignity and taking appropriate action if they suspect abuse or neglect, district nurses can safeguard their patients.

Originality/value

This paper begins to address an omission in existing empirical research regarding the role of district nursing teams in delivering dignified care and how this can safeguard older adults.
The relationship between healthcare service provision models and patient experience
Authors: De Rosis Sabina , Barchielli Chiara , Vainieri Milena , Bellé Nicola
Published: January 2022

Purpose

User experience is key for measuring and improving the quality of services, especially in high personal and relation-intensive sectors, such as healthcare. However, evidence on whether and how the organizational model of healthcare service delivery can affect the patient experience is at an early stage. This study investigates the relationship between healthcare service provision models and patient experience by focusing on the nursing care delivery.

Design/methodology/approach

65 nurses' coordinators were involved to map the nursing models adopted in the healthcare organizations of in an Italian region, Tuscany. This dataset was merged with patient experience measures reported by 9,393 individuals discharged by the same organizations and collected through a Patient-Reported Experience Measures Observatory. The authors run a series of logistic regression models to test the relationships among variables.

Findings

Patients appreciate those characteristics of care delivery related to a specific professional nurse. Having someone who is in charge of the patient, both the reference nurse and the supervisor, makes a real difference. Purely organizational features, for instance those referring to the team working, do not significantly predict an excellent experience with healthcare services.

Research limitations/implications

Different features referring to different nursing models make the difference in producing an excellent user experience with the service.

Practical implications

These findings can support managers and practitioners in taking decisions on the service delivery models to adopt. Instead of applying monolithic pure models, mixing features of different models into a hybrid one seems more effective in meeting users' expectations.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies on the relationship between provision models of high-contact and relational-intensive services (the healthcare services) and users' experience. This research contributes to the literature on healthcare service management suggesting to acknowledge the importance of hybridization of features from different, purely theoretical service delivery models, in order to fit with providers' practice and users' expectations.

Highlights

This is one of the first studies on the relationship between provision models of nursing care and patient experience.

Healthcare services' users appreciate service delivery characteristics identified with “be cared by,” or in other words with having a reference nurse.

Nursing models' features that relate to the organizations and that providers tend to judge as professionalizing and evolutive, such as team working, appear not key in relation to patient experience.

Pure models of service delivery are theoretically useful, but hybrid models can better meet users' expectations.
Process facilitators shifting between the support and expert roles in a complex work environment intervention in the Swedish healthcare sector
Authors: Wikström Ewa , Severin Jonathan , Jonsdottir Ingibjorg H. , Akerstrom Magnus
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Process facilitation as part of a complex intervention for changing or improving practices within workplaces is becoming a common work method. The aim of this study was to investigate what characterizes the process-facilitating role in a complex intervention.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study focuses on a complex work environment intervention targeting eight organizational units (workplaces) in the Swedish healthcare sector. The study applies a mixed-method approach and has been carried out in two steps. First, a qualitative process evaluation was performed. Secondly, an evaluation was conducted to see to what extent these identified conditions and mechanisms affected the quantitative intervention effect in term of sickness absence.

Findings

The analysis shows that the facilitating role consisted of three overlapping and partially iterative phases. These phases involved different activities for the facilitating role. Depending on how the facilitating role and the intervention were designed, various supporting conditions were found to significantly affect the outcome of the intervention measured as the total sickness absence.

Research limitations/implications

It is concluded that the facilitation is not static or fixed during the change process. Instead, the facilitation role develops and emerges through the process of support during the different implementation phases.

Practical implications

The facilitative role of performing support is based on a combination of support role activities and expert role activities. The support role focuses on support activities, while the expert role includes capacity building through knowledge- and legitimacy-oriented activities.

Originality/value

This study contributes to earlier research by developing a methodological approach for carrying out process facilitation in complex interventions.
Analysis of determinants of youth self-employment career choices
Authors: Melak Degsew , Derbe Tegegne
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Given the different manifestations of the unemployment crisis, the main purpose of this study was to identify what characteristics influence the participation of youth in key self-employment business options.

Design/methodology/approach

The study has used both probability and nonprobability sampling techniques. Purposive sampling methods were used to identify target study areas (districts and Kebeles) while the systematic random sampling method was used to locate sample respondents. A total of 424 sample respondents were interviewed through interview scheduled questionnaires. Statistical data analysis was carried out using STATA 14 software.

Findings

Agriculture, local value-added business activities, food-related services, petty trade and local transportation were common business choices where unemployed youths were engaged in. The findings of the study also showed that sex, loan size, loan repayment period and training gap were predictors of youth engagement in various self-employment career choices.

Practical implications

Increasing loan size has a positive and significant influence on youth engagement in all self-employment business choices and has reminded us the need to revise or lift up loan size celling to assist youths in engaging in productive sectors. Similarly, the favourable correlation between female youths and value-added activities necessitates a well-designed female-specific intervention.

Originality/value

An understanding of the key determinants of youth preference to engage in specific self-employment career choices enables practitioners to intervene where necessary in supporting youth self-employment engagement. A combination of skill training, relaxed loan size and relaxed repayment is likely to gain sustainable business, which would benefit the local economy by transforming small businesses to a higher level and creating more job opportunities.
Fire performance of hybrid mass timber beam-end connections with perpendicular-to-wood grain reinforcement
Authors: Okunrounmu Oluwamuyiwa , Salem Osama (Sam) , Hadjisophocleous George
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The fire resistance of timber structures is heavily dependent on the fire behaviour of the connections between its structural elements. The experimental study presented in this paper aimed to investigate the fire performance of glued-laminated timber beam connections reinforced perpendicular-to-wood grain with self-tapping screws (STS).

Design/methodology/approach

Two full-size fire experiments were conducted on glulam beam-end connections loaded in flexure bending. Two connection configurations, each utilizing four steel bolts arranged in two different patterns, were reinforced perpendicular to wood grain using STS. The bolt heads and nuts and the steel plate top and bottom edges were fire protected using wood plugs and strips, respectively. Each connection configuration was loaded to 100% of the ultimate design load of the weakest unreinforced configuration. The test assemblies were exposed to elevated temperatures that followed the CAN/ULC-S101 standard fire time–temperature curve.

Findings

The experimental results show that the influence of the STS was significant as it prevented the occurrence of wood splitting and row shear-out and as a result, increased the fire resistance time of the connections. The time to failure of both connection configurations exceeded the minimum fire resistance rating specified as 45 min for combustible construction in applicable building codes.

Originality/value

The experimental data show the effectiveness of a simple fire protection system (i.e. wood plugs and strips) along with the utilization of STS on the rotational behaviour, charring rate, fire resistance time and failure mode of the proposed hybrid mass timber beam-end connection configurations.
Developing climate-responsive passive strategies for residential envelopes in the warm humid climate of South India
Authors: Vishnubhotla Lakshmi Visakha , Shanmugam Sornambiga , Tadepalli Srinivas
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Energy codes for residential buildings in India prescribe design guidelines for each climate zone. However, these guidelines are broad and similar for different cities under the same zone overlooking climatic variations due to altitude, location and other geographical factors.

Design/methodology/approach

To develop strategies addressing the city-specific requirements, a stepwise simulation approach was used. Integrated Environmental Solutions–Virtual Environment (IES-VE) was used to create a prototype of a singly detached residence. The applicability of strategies is studied during the day and night times. Optimum orientation, the thickness of insulation, Window–Wall Ratio, the impact of cross-ventilation and shading depth are determined for two cities – Tiruchirappalli and Coimbatore under the warm-humid climate zone of India.

Findings

Results indicate that optimum insulation thickness and WWR vary between both cities during daytime and night time. In Tiruchirappalli, roof and wall insulation using polyurethane board (100 mm) and foam concrete (25 mm) offers a maximum reduction of 2.2°C indoors. Foam concrete (25 mm) insulation for roof and expanded polystyrene (25 mm) for walls reduce a maximum of 2.6°C during daytime in Coimbatore. Further, night ventilation with 20% WWR allows an average decrease of 0.5–0.6°C in triply exposed spaces facing the South. The use of a 2'0" depth shading device shows a maximum reduction of 0.1–0.3°C.

Originality/value

The contribution of this work lies in developing city-specific inputs presenting the advantage of easy replicability for other cities in the Indian context.
Effectiveness and safety of topical 15% resorcinol in the management of mild‐to‐moderate hidradenitis suppurativa: A cohort study
Authors: Cordero‐Ramos Jaime , Barros‐Tornay Rubén , Toledo‐Pastrana Tomás , Ferrándiz Lara , Calleja‐Hernández Miguel Ángel , Moreno‐Ramírez David
Published: January 2022

Antibiotics remain one of the main treatment alternatives in mild‐to‐moderate hidradenitis suppurativa. The use of topical 15% resorcinol reduces antibiotic pressure and the generation of resistance. However, knowledge on its efficacy and safety is limited. This single‐center, prospective, follow‐up cohort study evaluated topical 15% resorcinol every 12‐h response at 16 weeks. Those individuals with mild‐to‐moderate hidradenitis suppurativa (Hurley I–II) who started treatment with topical resorcinol monotherapy between April 2019 and May 2020 were eligible for follow‐up. The primary endpoint for effectiveness was the proportion of patients who achieved an overall clinical response (complete or partial response) at week 16, evaluated as intention‐to‐treat. Responses were measured according to the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response index. Target lesion size was measured clinically and by ultrasonography. Quality of life was assessed through the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. Safety was measured by recording the adverse events reported during the follow‐up period. A total of 32 patients were enrolled (mean age, 40.1 years [95% confidence interval, 35.7–44.4]; women, 20 [62.5%]; Hurley I, 17 [53.1%]). Under the intention‐to‐treat analysis, 68.8% (n = 22) of the patients achieved a clinical response. A ≥50% reduction in the size of the main lesion was observed in 56.3% of the patients (n = 18). Some 65.6% (n = 21) of the patients had a ≥50% reduction (improvement) in their baseline DLQI score. Fifty percent of patients who completed the follow‐up period experienced adverse events, all of which were local, mild, and transient and did not lead to discontinuation of resorcinol. To conclude, in this cohort study, topical 15% resorcinol was shown to be effective for mild‐to‐moderate hidradenitis suppurativa and to have a positive impact on quality of life with an acceptable safety profile.
Separation of overlapping fingerprints by principal component analysis and multivariate curve resolution–alternating least squares analysis of hyperspectral imaging data
Authors: Akiba Norimitsu , Nakamura Atsushi , Sota Takayuki , Hibino Kazuhito , Kakuda Hidetoshi , Aalders Maurice C.G.
Published: January 2022

Overlapping fingerprints are often found at crime scenes, but only individual fingerprints separated from each other are admissible as evidence in court. Fingerprint components differ slightly among individuals, and thus their fluorescence spectra also differ from each other. Therefore, the separation of overlapping fingerprints using the difference of the fluorescence spectrum was performed with a hyperspectral imager. Hyperspectral data (HSD) of overlapping fingerprints were recorded under UV LED excitation. Principal component analysis (PCA) and multivariate curve resolution—alternating least squares (MCR–ALS) were applied to the HSD to determine the optimal method for obtaining high‐contrast images of individual fingerprints. The results suggested that MCR–ALS combined with PCA‐based initialization is capable of separating overlapping fingerprints into individual fingerprints. In this study, a method for separating overlapping fingerprints without initial parameters was proposed.
Visual behavior patterns of successful decision makers in crime scene photo investigation: An eye tracking analysis
Authors: Chang Rong‐Chi , Tsai Meng‐Jung
Published: January 2022

Crime scene investigation serves as an important source of information for law enforcement officers when running a case. Effective leads are uncovered based on the knowledge, technique, and experience of the crime scene investigator. This study utilized eye‐tracking technology to understand different decision makers'visual behaviors and decision‐making process when studying a crime scene picture. A total of 42 college students majored in crime investigation were recruited as the subjects of the study. Eye movement data were collected and analyzed using t‐test and ANOVA on eye‐tracking measures of areas of interest (AOI) for visual attention distributions as well as lag sequence analysis (LSA), heat map, and scan path observations for visual transfer patterns. The results showed that participants who made the correct decision were faster in identifying the key target. Regardless of whether they made the correct decision or not, their visual attention was fixated on the answer option of their choosing. Additionally, the subjects’ attention must be shifted to the key target in order to make the correct decision. This study successfully applied the eye‐tracking method to explore the investigation and decision‐making process of inspecting a crime scene picture. Future studies can apply the eye‐tracking method to deeply understand the process of information processing in investigating criminal scene pictures and provide more suggestions for professional training curriculum and instruction.
Penile calciphylaxis in patients with end‐stage kidney disease undergoing dialysis: Invasive treatment and pain management
Authors: Kawai Yusuke , Banshodani Masataka , Moriishi Misaki , Shizukawa Hiroko , Sato Tomoyasu , Shintaku Sadanori , Masaki Takao , Kawanishi Hideki
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Penile calciphylaxis is rarely reported in dialysis patients.

Methods

We experienced cases of dialysis patients who had penile calciphylaxis between 2003 and 2020.

Results

Seven patients undergoing dialysis were treated for penile necrosis (hemodialysis [HD], 5; peritoneal dialysis [PD], 1; hybrid therapy comprising PD and HD, 1). Their mean age was 62.8 years and their mean dialysis vintage 116.1 months. All had severe penile pain and were clinically diagnosed with calciphylaxis. Four received partial penectomy and three received percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) due to rapid aggravation. The number of analgesia types and the critical‐care pain observation tool score significantly decreased after invasive treatment (both, p = 0.008). The 90‐day and 1‐year survival rates after onset were 85.7% and 57.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

In dialysis patients, penile calciphylaxis has poor prognosis; however, invasive treatments for pain management are effective. PTA may be beneficial in dialysis patients in poor condition.
Placenta accreta spectrum: We can do better
Authors: Silveira Cheryl , Kirby Adrienne , Melov Sarah J. , Nayyar Roshini
Published: January 2022

Background

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) has a high risk of maternal morbidity, and requires meticulous antenatal and peripartum management.

Aims

To compare the management and outcomes of PAS between women with and without antenatally suspected disease, and to evaluate the effect of multidisciplinary team (MDT) management.

Materials and methods

A retrospective cohort study identified all hysterectomy specimens with a histopathological diagnosis of PAS in the Western Sydney Local Health District between January 2006 and December 2019, and analysed each patient’s clinical course.

Results

Seventy patients had PAS diagnosed on hysterectomy specimens, of which 38 cases (54%) were antenatally suspected. Women with suspected PAS were more likely to have a previous caesarean section (100% vs 68%, P < 0.001), placenta praevia (92% vs 56%, P < 0.001) and anterior placenta (95% vs 66%. P = 0.011). Suspected PAS was associated with less maternal blood loss (median blood loss 2000 mL vs 4000 mL, P < 0.001), fewer red blood cell transfusions (median four units vs nine units, P < 0.001), and shorter intensive care or high dependency unit admission (mean stay one day vs three days, P = 0.037). There were no significant differences in other maternal morbidities. MDT management was associated with a clinically significant reduction in maternal blood loss (1500 mL vs 2520 mL, P = 0.09) and red blood cell transfusion (one unit vs six units, P = 0.04). The mean gestation of delivery was 37 weeks in both groups with no differences in neonatal morbidity.

Conclusions

Both antenatally diagnosed PAS and MDT management reduced blood loss and blood transfusion. Elective delivery at 37 weeks gestation reduces the neonatal risks of preterm delivery.
Trajectories of early childhood family instability and the development of externalizing behaviors from middle childhood to adolescence: A prospective study of at‐risk families
Authors: Womack Sean R. , Wilson Melvin N. , Tong Xin , Lemery‐Chalfant Kathryn , Shaw Daniel S.
Published: January 2022

This study examined associations between trajectories of family instability across early childhood and trajectories of externalizing behaviors from middle childhood to adolescence. Growth mixture models were fit to annual caregiver reports of instability from child ages 2–5 (N = 731; 49% girls, 50% White). A curve of factors model was fit to externalizing behaviors from child ages 7.5–14. Chronic, elevated instability across early childhood predicted elevated externalizing behaviors from middle childhood to adolescence. Data collection spanned from 2002 to 2017. Increasing or declining levels of instability predicted elevated externalizing behaviors in middle to late childhood, but not in adolescence. Caregiver depressive symptoms mediated the association between instability and the externalizing behavior intercept. Intervening on chronic instability may reduce child externalizing problems.
A rare cutaneous tumour
Authors: Seine A. J. , Aronson A. , Tallon B. , Mortimer N. J.
Published: January 2022

A clinicopathological correlation case of a rare cutaneous tumour, which demonstrated a very rare recurrence with uncertainty remaining over the long-term prognosis for the patient.

Click https://www.wileyhealthlearning.com/#/online-courses/a975ab43-2d48-46fb-8dba-7df9792fd778 for the corresponding questions to this CME article.
Designing and validation of a workplace abuse questionnaire among child labour
Authors: Mohaqeqi Kamal Seyed Hossein , Jalili Moayad Saeedeh , Sajjadi Homeira , Vameghi Meroe , Ghaedamini Harouni Gholamreza , Mohammadi Gharehghani Mohammad Ali , Ahmadi Sina
Published: January 2022

Despite the efforts of formal and informal institutions to manage child labour, current policies have not led to the realization of goals in this area. This study aimed to design and validate a workplace abuse questionnaire among the child labourers (WAQCL). The sample for the study was 250 Iranian child labourers, living in Tehran. The WAQCL investigated four factors (neglect, psychological, physical and sexual abuse) and consisted of 23 items. The questionnaire was found to have good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ≥0.8) and good content validity (0.932). The instrument can help to assess workplace abuse in health care practice.
Efficacy and safety of high‐dose glucagon‐like peptide‐1, glucagon‐like peptide‐1/glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide, and glucagon‐like peptide‐1/glucagon receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes
Authors: De Block Christophe E. M. , Dirinck Eveline , Verhaegen Ann , Van Gaal Luc F.
Published: January 2022

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) have become agents of choice for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) with established cardiovascular disease or in high‐risk individuals. With currently available GLP‐1 RAs, 51%‐79% of subjects achieve an HbA1c target of less than 7.0% and 4%‐27% lose 10% of body weight, illustrating the need for more potent agents. Three databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science) were searched using the MESH terms ‘glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist’, ‘glucagon receptor agonist’, ‘glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide’, ‘dual or co‐agonist’, and ‘tirzepatide’. Quality of papers was scored using PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane assessment tool. An HbA1c target of less than 7.0% was attained by up to 80% with high‐dose GLP‐1 RAs and up to 97% with tirzepatide, with even up to 62% of people with T2D reaching an HbA1c of less than 5.7%. A body weight loss of 10% or greater was obtained by up to 50% and up to 69% with high‐dose GLP‐1 RAs or tirzepatide, respectively. The glucose‐ and weight‐lowering effects of the GLP‐1/glucagon RA cotadutide equal those of liraglutide 1.8 mg. Gastrointestinal side effects of high‐dose GLP‐1 RAs and co‐agonists occurred in 30%‐70% of patients, mostly arising within the first 2 weeks of the first dose, being mild or moderate in severity, and transient. The development of high‐dose GLP‐1 RAs and the dual GLP‐1/glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide RA tirzepatide resulted in increasing numbers of people reaching HbA1c and body weight targets, with up to 62% attaining normoglycaemia with 15‐mg tirzepatide. Whether this will also translate to better cardiovascular outcomes and affect treatment guidelines remains to be studied.
Common functional connectivity alterations in focal epilepsies identified by machine learning
Authors: Gholipour Taha , You Xiaozhen , Stufflebeam Steven M. , Loew Murray , Koubeissi Mohamad Z. , Morgan Victoria L. , Gaillard William D.
Published: January 2022

Objective

This study was undertaken to identify shared functional network characteristics among focal epilepsies of different etiologies, to distinguish epilepsy patients from controls, and to lateralize seizure focus using functional connectivity (FC) measures derived from resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Data were taken from 103 adult and 65 pediatric focal epilepsy patients (with or without lesion on MRI) and 109 controls across four epilepsy centers. We used three whole‐brain FC measures: parcelwise connectivity matrix, mean FC, and degree of FC. We trained support vector machine models with fivefold cross‐validation (1) to distinguish patients from controls and (2) to lateralize the hemisphere of seizure onset in patients. We reported the regions and connections with the highest importance from each model as the common FC differences between the compared groups.

Results

FC measures related to the default mode and limbic networks had higher importance relative to other networks for distinguishing epilepsy patients from controls. In lateralization models, regions related to somatosensory, visual, default mode, and basal ganglia showed higher importance. The epilepsy versus control classification model trained using a 400‐parcel connectivity matrix achieved a median testing accuracy of 75.6% (median area under the curve [AUC] = .83) in repeated independent testing. Lateralization accuracy using the 400‐parcel connectivity matrix reached a median accuracy of 64.0% (median AUC = .69).

Significance

Machine learning models revealed common FC alterations in a heterogeneous group of patients with focal epilepsies. The distribution of the most altered regions supports the hypothesis that shared functional alteration exists beyond the seizure onset zone and its epileptic network. We showed that FC measures can distinguish patients from controls, and further lateralize focal epilepsies. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings by using larger numbers of epilepsy patients.
Optimization of application schedule of camphecene, a novel anti‐influenza compound, based on its pharmacokinetic characteristics
Authors: Zarubaev Vladimir V. , Garshinina Angelica V. , Volobueva Alexandrina S. , Slita Alexander V. , Yarovaya Olga I. , Bykov Vladimir V. , Leonov Klim A. , Motov Valery S. , Khazanov Veniamin A. , Salakhutdinov Nariman F.
Published: January 2022

Due to high variability and rapid life cycle, influenza virus is able to develop drug resistance against direct‐acting antivirals. Development of novel virus‐in113039hibiting drugs is therefore important goal. Previously, we identified camphor derivative, camphecene, as an effective anti‐influenza compound. In the present study, we optimize the regimen of its application to avoid high sub‐toxic concentrations. The protective activity of camphecene was assessed on the model of lethal pneumonia of mice caused by influenza viruses. Camphecene was administered either once a day or four times a day, alone or in combination with Tamiflu. Mortality and viral titer in the lungs were studied. Pharmacokinetics of camphecene was studied in rabbits. We have demonstrated that camphecene, being used every 6 h at a dose of 7.5 mg/kg/day, results in antiviral effect that was statistically equal to the effect of 100 mg/kg/day once a day, that is, the same effect was achieved by 13 times lower daily dose of the drug. This effect was manifested in decrease of mortality and decrease of virus' titer in the lungs. The studies of pharmacokinetics of camphecene have demonstrated that it does not accumulate in blood plasma and that its m ultiple applications with dosage interval of 65 min are safe. In addition, the results of the study demonstrate also that camphecene possesses additive effect with Tamiflu, allowing to decrease the dose of the latter. The results suggest that due to safety and efficacy, camphecene can be further developed as potential anti‐influenza remedy.
Skeletal muscle as a treatment target for older adults with diabetes mellitus: The importance of a multimodal intervention based on functional category
Authors: Omura Takuya , Araki Atsushi
Published: January 2022

Although the lifespan of people with diabetes has increased in many countries, the age‐related increase in comorbidities (sarcopenia, frailty and disabilities) and diabetic complications has become a major issue. Diabetes accelerates the aging of skeletal muscles and blood vessels through mechanisms, such as increased oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, mitochondrial dysfunction, genetic polymorphism (fat mass and obesity‐associated genes) and accumulation of advanced glycation end‐products. Diabetes is associated with early onset, and progression of muscle weakness and sarcopenia, thus resulting in diminished daily life function. The type and duration of diabetes, insulin section/resistance, hyperglycemia, diabetic neuropathy, malnutrition and low physical activity might affect muscular loss and weakness. To prevent the decline in daily activities in older adults with diabetes, resistance training or multicomponent exercise should be recommended. To maintain muscle function, optimal energy and sufficient protein intake are necessary. Although no specific drug enhances muscle mass and function, antidiabetic drugs that increase insulin sensitivity or secretion could be candidates for improvement of sarcopenia. The goals of glycemic control for older patients are determined based on three functional categories through an assessment of cognitive function and activities of daily living, and the presence or absence of medications that pose a hypoglycemic risk. As these functional categories are associated with muscle weakness, frailty and mortality risk, providing multimodal interventions (exercise, nutrition, social network or support and optimal medical treatment) is important, starting at the category II stage for maintenance or improvement in daily life functions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 110–120.
Contributing Areas to Domestic Wells in Dipping Sedimentary Rocks under Extreme Recharge Events
Authors: Tiedeman Claire R. , Shapiro Allen M.
Published: January 2022

We use particle tracking to determine contributing areas (CAs) to wells for transient flow models that simulate cyclic domestic pumping and extreme recharge events in a small synthetic watershed underlain by dipping sedimentary rocks. The CAs consist of strike‐oriented bands at locations where the water table intersects high‐hydraulic conductivity beds, and from which groundwater flows to the pumping well. Factors that affect the size and location of the CAs include topographic flow directions, rock dip direction, cross‐bed fracture density, and position of the well relative to streams. For an effective fracture porosity (ne) of 10−4, the fastest advective travel times from CAs to wells are only a few hours. These results indicate that wells in this type of geologic setting can be highly vulnerable to contaminants or pathogens flushed into the subsurface during extreme recharge events. Increasing ne to 10−3 results in modestly smaller CAs and delayed well vulnerability due to slower travel times. CAs determined for steady‐state models of the same setting, but with long‐term average recharge and pumping rates, are smaller than CAs in the models with extreme recharge. Also, the earliest‐arriving particles arrive at the wells later in the steady‐state models than in the extreme‐recharge models. The results highlight the importance of characterizing geologic structure, simulating plausible effective porosities, and simulating pumping and recharge transience when determining CAs in fractured rock aquifers to assess well vulnerability under extreme precipitation events.
From pastures to forests: Changes in Mediterranean wild bee communities after rural land abandonment
Authors: Penado Andreia , Rebelo Hugo , Goulson Dave , Wood Thomas J. , Porto Miguel , Rotheray Ellen L. , Beja Pedro
Published: January 2022

In farmland landscapes worldwide, there are pervasive trends for either intensification or abandonment. Intensification is a widely recognised driver of wild bee declines, but little is known about the consequences of land abandonment, though it involves major habitat shifts from fallows, pastures and meadows, to shrublands and forests.

Focusing on a Mediterranean landscape, we investigated long‐term changes in wild bee communities during secondary vegetation succession after land abandonment. We used a space‐for‐time substitution approach, sampling plants and wild bees on five successional stages, from grasslands, through shrublands, to oak woodlands.

We recorded 2721 bees, representing over 150 species. Grasslands had the highest wild bee abundance and high diversity of oligolectic species. Moving through successional stages, there was a rapid decline in bee abundance combined with a progressive accumulation of rare species, resulting in maximum diversity of the overall community, ground nesters, polyleges, and oligoleges in oak woodlands. Bee diversity was positively related to plant taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity. There was high turnover in community composition along the succession, with species occurring in grasslands being largely absent from later successional stages, and vice versa. From 21 indicator species, 17 were associated with grasslands, including the only threatened species.

Our results suggest that a mosaic of habitats at different successional stages, particularly grasslands and oak woodlands, are necessary to maximise the diversity and abundance of wild bees at the landscape scale. Sustained management is thus needed under land abandonment to retain early‐successional herbaceous habitats and to ensure woodland regeneration and protection.
Preparation of façade panels based on alkali‐activated waste mineral wool, their characterization, and durability aspects
Authors: Pavlin Majda , Horvat Barbara , Ducman Vilma
Published: January 2022

Mineral wool is a widely used insulation material and one of the largest components of construction and demolition waste, yet it mainly ends up in landfills. In this work, we explored the potential recycling of waste stone wool in the pilot production of alkali‐activated façade panels. The current work shows mechanical properties, SEM‐EDS, and mercury intrusion porosimetry analyses for three different mix designs used for the preparation of façade panels. They are all composed of waste stone wool and differ in the amount of co‐binders (local slag, lime, metakaolin, and/or fly ash) selected by the preliminary studies. In this study, co‐binders were added to increase early strength and improve the mechanical properties and freeze–thaw resistance. The mechanical properties of each were measured up to 256 days, different durability tests were executed, and, by evaluating the mechanical properties, microstructure, and workability of the mortar, the most suitable mix was selected to be used for the pilot production. In addition, the leaching test of the selected mixture showed no exceeded toxic trace elements and therefore got classified as non‐hazardous waste after its use.
Validation of International Classification of Diseases criteria to identify severe influenza hospitalizations
Authors: Snyder Brittney M. , Patterson Megan F. , Gebretsadik Tebeb , Wu Pingsheng , Ding Tan , Lee Rees L. , Edwards Kathryn M. , Somerville Lindsay A. , Braciale Thomas J. , Ortiz Justin R. , Hartert Tina V.
Published: January 2022

In this cohort study of hospitalized patients with linked medical record data, we developed International Classification of Diseases (ICD) criteria that accurately identified laboratory‐confirmed, severe influenza hospitalizations (positive predictive value [PPV] 80%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 71–87%), which we validated through medical record documentation. These criteria identify patients with clinically important influenza illness outcomes to inform evaluation of preventive and therapeutic interventions and public health policy recommendations.
Gut microbiome–immune system interaction in reptiles
Authors: Siddiqui Ruqaiyyah , Maciver Sutherland K. , Khan Naveed Ahmed
Published: January 2022

Reptiles are ectothermic amniotes in a world dominated by endotherms. Reptiles originated more than 300 million years ago and they often dwell in polluted environments which may expose them to pathogenic micro-organisms, radiation and/or heavy metals. Reptiles also possess greater longevity and may live much longer than similar-sized land mammals, for example, turtles, tortoises, crocodiles and tuatara are long-lived reptiles living up to 100 years or more. Many recent studies have emphasized the pivotal role of the gut microbiome on its host; thus, we postulated that reptilian gut microbiome and/or its metabolites and the interplay with their robust immune system may contribute to their longevity and overall hardiness. Herein, we discuss the composition of the reptilian gut microbiome, immune system–gut microbiome cross-talk, antimicrobial peptides, reptilian resistance to infectious diseases and cancer, ageing, as well the current knowledge of the genome and epigenome of these remarkable species. Preliminary studies have demonstrated that microbial gut flora of reptiles such as crocodiles, tortoises, water monitor lizard and python exhibit remarkable anticancer and antibacterial properties, as well as comprise novel gut bacterial metabolites and antimicrobial peptides. The underlying mechanisms between the gut microbiome and the immune system may hold clues to developing new therapies overall for health, and possible extrapolation to exploit the ancient defence systems of reptiles for Homo sapiens benefit.