bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polygenic plague resistance in the great gerbil uncovered by population sequencing
Authors: Nilsson Pernille , Ravinet Mark , Cui Yujun , Berg Paul R , Zhang Yujiang , Guo Rong , Luo Tao , Song Yajun , Trucchi Emiliano , Hoff Siv N K , Lv Ruichen , Schmid Boris V , Easterday W Ryan , Jakobsen Kjetill S , Stenseth Nils Chr , Yang Ruifu , Jentoft Sissel
Published: September 2022

Pathogens can elicit high selective pressure on hosts, potentially altering genetic diversity over short evolutionary timescales. Intraspecific variation in immune response is observable as variable survivability from specific infections. The great gerbil (Rhombomys opimus) is a rodent plague host with a heterogenic but highly resistant phenotype. Here, we investigate the genomic basis for plague-resistant phenotypes by exposing wild-caught great gerbils to plague (Yersinia pestis). Whole genome sequencing of 10 survivors and 10 moribund individuals revealed a subset of genomic regions showing elevated differentiation. Gene ontology analysis of candidate genes in these regions demonstrated enrichment of genes directly involved in immune functions, cellular metabolism and the regulation of apoptosis as well as pathways involved in transcription, translation, and gene regulation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the early activated great gerbil immune response to plague consisted of classical components of the innate immune system. Our approach combining challenge experiments with transcriptomics and population level sequencing, provides new insight into the genetic background of plague-resistance and confirms its complex nature, most likely involving multiple genes and pathways of both the immune system and regulation of basic cellular functions.
Does Bridge Employment Mitigate or Exacerbate Inequalities Later in Life?
Authors: Cahill Kevin E , Giandrea Michael D , Quinn Joseph F , Sacco Lawrence B , Platts Loretta G
Published: September 2022

Most older Americans with career employment change jobs at least once before retiring from the labor market. Much is known about the prevalence and determinants of these bridge jobs, yet relatively little is known about the implications of such job changes—compared to direct exits from a career job—upon economic disparities in later life. In this article, we use 26 years of longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study to document the various pathways that older Americans take when exiting the labor force, and examine how bridge employment affects nonhousing wealth and total wealth, including the present discounted value of Social Security benefits. We find that gradual retirement in the form of bridge employment neither exacerbates nor mitigates wealth inequalities among Americans who hold career jobs later in life. That said, we do find some evidence that wealth inequalities grow among the subset of older career workers who transition from career employment to bridge employment at older ages. One policy implication of our article is that it provides evidence that might allay concerns about the potential for disparate financial impacts associated with the gradual retirement process.
Dissection of the Plant Hormone Signal Transduction Network in Late Blight-Resistant Potato Genotype SD20 and Prediction of Key Resistance Genes
Authors: Yan Wenyuan , Jian Yinqiao , Duan Shaoguang , Guo Xiao , Hu Jun , Yang Xiaohui , Li Guangcun
Published: September 2022

Hormones play an important role in plant disease resistance and defense. Transcriptome data of late blight-resistant potato genotype SD20 treated by ethylene (ET), jasmonate (JA), salicylic acid (SA), and Phytophthora infestans CN152 was analyzed to assess the role of the ET/JA/SA regulatory network in plant disease resistance and defense and predict key resistant genes. The results show that there was significant crossover of differentially expressed genes among all treatments, and common and specific plant disease interaction genes for the ET, JA, and SA treatments were differentially expressed in the CN152 treatment. The resistance and defense genes of the potato genotype SD20 could be induced to regulate metabolic and hormone signaling pathways by alternative splicing in all treatments. Further analysis found that JA and ET pathways can work together synergistically. JA/ET and SA pathways antagonize each other to initiate the expression of calmodulin-domain protein kinases and calmodulin/calmodulin-like and RPM1-interacting protein 4 genes, and they activate HSP-mediated hypersensitive response and defense-related genes. Meanwhile, nine defense genes, including wound-responsive AP2-like factor, glutathione-s-transferase, serine/threonine-protein kinase BRI1, and Avr9/Cf-9 rapidly elicited protein genes, were obtained using weighted gene coexpression network analysis, which provided reliable targets for functional verification. This study provides a theoretical reference for the comprehensive application of plant hormones to improve resistance to potato late blight disease.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Short-term Peripheral Nerve Stimulation and Pulsed Radiofrequency for Treating Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Neuralgia
Authors: Fan Xiaochong , Ren Huan , Xu Fuxing , Lu Zhongyuan , Ma Letian , Kong Cunlong , Wang Tao , Bu Huilian , Huang Wenqi
Published: September 2022

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the effect of therapy with peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) and pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) combined or PNS and PRF separately in patients with herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO).

Materials and Methods:

This cohort study included 106 cases of HZO. Three groups were identified according to the type of treatment received: combination therapy (PNS+PRF) (n=38), PRF (n=37), and PNS (n=31). The observations at 0, 1, 2, and 4 weeks; 3 and 6 months; and 1 and 2 years after the operation were analyzed. Observations at each follow-up included baseline characteristics, Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), concomitant pain medication usage, relapse rate, and adverse events.

Results:

The postoperative NRS of all 3 groups were significantly lower than preoperative scores. The PSQI of the 3 groups was significantly improved postoperatively, and the concomitant pain medication gradually decreased. Regarding long-term efficacy, the pain NRS and PSQI scores of the PNS+PRF and PNS groups were significantly lower than those of the PRF group (P<0.05), and the relapse rate of the PRF group was higher than that of the PNS+PRF and PNS groups (P<0.05). No significant difference was observed between the PNS+PRF and the PNS groups.

Conclusion:

Both PNS and PRF treatment of HZO can decrease the pain score, yielding no serious complications. The combination of PNS and PRF or PNS alone resulted in more significant pain relief than treatment with PRF alone. Thus, PNS therapy may be a better treatment option for HZO.
Social Media Posts Pertaining to Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) Surgery
Authors: Swiatek Peter R. , Roumeliotis Anastasios G. , Weiner Joseph A. , Ramesh Ashvita , Johnson Daniel J. , Gerlach Erik B. , Divi Srikanth N. , Hsu Wellington K. , Patel Alpesh A.
Published: September 2022

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Objective:

To analyze publicly available content on a major social media outlet related to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery based on perspective, location, timing, content, tone, and patient satisfaction.

Summary of Background Data:

Social media offers a powerful platform for sharing the patient experience with the public through an unfiltered perspective. Social media content may influence future perceptions around surgical care and postings around ACDF have not been previously reported.

Methods:

A query of content from a major social media outlet was performed for the study period January 1, 2018, to January 1, 2020, and returned 6500 publicly available posts. Content was identified by the hashtags “#acdf” or “#acdfsurgery.” Content was ranked by number of “likes.” Of the 1500 most popular posts, 1136 related to ACDF surgery and were included. Post content was characterized and classified.

Results:

Patients created 85% of ACDF-related content and spine surgeons created 11.8%. Most posts portrayed the patient experience in the postoperative period and depicted patients performing activities of daily living, participating in sports, or completing work activities (54.4%). The connotation of posts was deemed to be positive in 79.2% of cases. In regard to their care or state of health as it related to ACDF surgery, 59.8% of patients expressed satisfaction, whereas 14.1% expressed dissatisfaction. Female patients were >4 times as likely to express dissatisfaction (odds ratio=4.16,P=<0.0001), with their clinical course compared with their male counterparts.

Conclusions:

Patients were the source of most posts on a major social media outlet that pertained to ACDF surgery with a majority reporting positive tone and satisfaction. These mechanisms of communication offer surgeons unique insights into patient experience and may provide an opportunity for surgeons to assess patient feedback, influence patient perceptions, and enhance delivery of cervical spine care.
New Insights into Intravascular Imaging of Coronary Bifurcation Lesions and Left Main Stenosis: What Have We Accomplished?
Authors: Leesar Massoud A. , Von Mering Gregory O. , Jneid Hani
Published: September 2022

Coronary bifurcation lesions (CBL) are one of the most challenging lesions to treat in interventional cardiology. Intravascular imaging including intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) is paramount for the assessment of lesion characteristics and suboptimal stent results and to improve the outcome of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). After upgrading the use of IVUS and OCT by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines, their use has increased. Likewise, there has been significant improvement in image quality and the profile of system (ie, IVUS catheter size). The main indication for the use of IVUS includes: assessment of lesion characteristics, optimization of stent deployment, optimal stent expansion, exclusion of plaque burden >50%, and edge dissection. Intravascular imaging plays a significant role in the assessment and treatment of left main (LM) coronary artery stenosis and CBL. In particular, the use of intravascular imaging for alleviating mechanical issues during stenting and managing stent thrombosis has significantly increased. Overall, a compelling body of evidence has shown that the use of IVUS or OCT during PCI leads to optimal stenting results and mitigates the risk of adverse cardiac events. However, to date, the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines have assigned a Class IIb recommendation for IVUS or OCT, while the European Society of Cardiology Guidelines upgraded it to the Class IIa recommendation. This review summarized the role of IVUS and OCT for the assessment of stenosis and stent optimization in patients with CBL and LM stenosis. In addition, we discuss new insights into the role of IVUS- and OCT-guided stenting in patients with CBL and LM stenosis provided by the ongoing randomized trials.
Impact of Coronary Chronic Total Occlusion on Long-term Clinical Outcome in Patients with Unprotected Left Main Disease Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Sheiban Imad , Figini Filippo , Gaspartto Valeria , Moretti Claudio , Leonardo Filippo , Chen Shaoliang , D’Ascenzo Fabrizio
Published: September 2022

Objectives:

Reported data regarding the prevalence, prognostic impact, and safety and efficacy of revascularization of coronary chronic total occlusion (CTO) in patients with left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are scarce. The aim of the present study was to compare clinical outcomes among patients with LMCA disease undergoing PCI. Outcomes were compared between those with and without coronary CTO and between those with CTO who had successful and unsuccessful CTO recanalization procedures.

Methods:

All consecutive patients with significant LMCA disease (>50% stenosis at coronary angiography) who underwent PCI between July 2014 and December 2018 were retrospectively included in our study. The primary endpoint of the study was long-term mortality. Secondary endpoints included the incidence of myocardial infarction, repeat percutaneous or surgical revascularization, stroke, and stent thrombosis.

Results:

Between July 2014 and December 2018, 578 patients underwent PCI for LMCA disease at Pederzoli Hospital and University of Turin were enrolled. They were divided into 3 groups: group A: 374 (65%) patients without CTO, group B: 108 (19%) patients with untreated or unsuccessfully treated CTO, and group C: 96 (17%) patients with successfully treated CTO. At a median follow-up of (1090 ± 279) days, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of the primary and secondary endpoints. However, there was a trend towards higher mortality in patients with untreated or unsuccessfully treated CTO (13% vs. 19% vs. 14% in groups A, B, and C, respectively; P = 0.12). The primary and secondary endpoints were further analyzed based on the presence or absence of myocardial viability: subgroup C1: 54 (56%) patients with successful percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) having viability, and subgroup C2: 42 (44%) patients with successful PTCA not having viability. There was a trend toward a statistically significant higher rate of death among patients in group B, who underwent unsuccessful recanalization with viable myocardium (19% vs. 9% vs. 19% in groups B, C1, and C2, respectively, P = 0.05). On multivariable analysis, the propensity for successful revascularization of CTO was associated with a reduced risk of death (P = 0.01; odds ratio, 0.75; 95% confidence interval: 0.62–0.87).

Conclusions:

Among patients with LMCA disease undergoing PCI, CTO represents a common finding associated with worse prognosis. Successful revascularization of CTO in patients with viable myocardium appears to significantly improve prognosis.
Usability Testing of an iPad Communication Application for Mechanically Ventilated Patients
Authors: Guttormson Jill L. , McAndrew Natalie S.
Published: September 2022

Background

Patient communication challenges during mechanical ventilation can negatively impact symptom management and psychological recovery. Alternative communication (AC) aids have the potential to improve mechanically ventilated (MV) patient experiences.

Objectives

This study evaluated the feasibility and usability of a communication application on a tablet (iPad).

Method

A single-group pilot study was guided by the augmentative and alternative communication acceptance model. We recruited patients from 1 medical intensive care unit. Existing communication application software (Proloquo2Go) was tailored to MV patients' needs. Usability testing included patient communication of 5 messages with data collected on success, message completion time, and patient feedback.

Results

Ten patients with a mean age of 50 years (SD, 16.7) were enrolled. Of the 7 patients able to complete usability testing, 85.7% found the device easy to use, and 100% wanted the iPad available for their use when on the ventilator. Three patients were extubated immediately after usability testing. Two patients preferred other modes of communication (writing). Two patients used the iPad as their primary mode of communication during the remainder of their time on the ventilator. Nurse feedback on the communication application was positive.

Discussion

Tablet-based communication applications can be successfully used by MV patients and should be considered as 1 tool to support effective patient communication during mechanical ventilation. Future research is needed to identify which patients may be most likely to benefit from the availability of these devices.
Navigating Disharmony
Authors: Seydel Abby , Moutsoglou Nefeli , Varilek Brandon M. , Minton Mary , Isaacson Mary J.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to describe nurses' experiences of communicating with patients and families at end of life (EOL). The COMFORT Communication Model guided this descriptive qualitative study. Participants from 1 major health care system located in the Great Plains completed an online survey, which consisted of Likert-type (N = 252) and open-ended questions (n = 201). This article reports the qualitative findings of this survey. Thematic analysis of the participants' narrative responses revealed an overarching theme of disharmony when caring for patients and families at EOL. We identified 3 themes within the overarching theme of disharmony: navigating denial, words matter, and knowledge deficit. Nurses express discomfort and a knowledge deficit when providing communication specific to primary palliative and EOL care. Nursing education has an obligation to ensure that new graduates are trained in and develop comfort with the communication principles of primary palliative and EOL care. This holistic approach may improve the quality of communication surrounding the EOL experience for patients, families, and nurses.
Increasing Proportion of High-risk Cytomegalovirus Donor-positive/Recipient-negative Serostatus in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Imlay Hannah , Wagener Marilyn M. , Vutien Philip , Perkins James , Singh Nina , Limaye Ajit P.
Published: September 2022

Background.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) donor-positive/recipient-negative (D+R–) serostatus is independently associated with worse allograft and patient survival across solid organ transplant (SOT) types. We characterized trends in CMV D+R– serostatus among adult SOT recipients performed in the United States.

Methods.

Donor (D) and recipient (R) CMV serostatus and demographic factors were obtained from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients for persons ≥18 y undergoing a first SOT between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2020. The proportions of D+R– SOTs over time were assessed using Chi square for trend and modeled through 2040. Factors associated with D/R seropositivity were assessed using logistic models.

Results.

Among 472 549 SOTs, the average proportion of D+R– SOTs increased significantly among kidney, liver, heart, and lung between 2000 to 2009 and 2010 to 2020: 18.0% to 18.3% (P = 0.034), 19.4% to 21.8% (P < 0.001), 22.2% to 25.5% (P < 0.001), and 23.6% to 27.0% (P < 0.001), respectively. The increased proportion over time resulted from a disproportionate increase in R– (34.9% to 37.0% for all organ types, P < 0.001) and a smaller corresponding change in D+ (60.8% to 60.3%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions.

The proportion of high-risk CMV D+R– SOTs increased significantly across all organs and is projected to continue to increase. These findings inform population-level strategies to mitigate the negative impact of CMV D+R– in SOT.
Movement-related beta modulation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis depends on muscle strength: A magnetoencephalography study
Authors: Sevelsted Stærmose Tobias , Andersen Lau Møller , Dalal Sarang S. , Bailey Christopher J. , Blicher Jakob Udby
Published: September 2022

Background

Movement related cortical beta (13-30 Hz) modulation is fundamental in the preparation and execution of movement. This oscillatory modulation is altered in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) during active movement, with reports of both decreased and increased beta band power. These beta band changes have never been examined in a proprioceptive paradigm in ALS.

Methods

Using magnetoencephalography (MEG) we examined 11 ALS patients and 12 healthy participants. We recorded beta band activity during a session of active movement of the dominant hand index finger, using a visual cue. We also recorded activity during a passive movement of the same finger using a MEG compatible pneumatically activated device. All ALS patients underwent a clinical examination including an estimation of the muscle strength of the arm used for the experiment.

Results

Using an analysis of variance (ANOVA), we find that movement related beta band power is modified by ALS and the amplitude of beta power is decreased, both for the active and passive movements. We also find that the beta band power modulation depends on the muscle strength of the arm used, with movement related power amplitude being decrease in patients with arm weakness. This was observed for both active and passive movement.

Conclusion

ALS patients show decreased movement related beta band amplitude compared to the healthy control group. The decrease seems to depend on disease severity. These results show that ALS affects the motor outputs and sensory inputs of the sensorimotor cortex and that the modulation differs depending on disease severity. Severity dependent modulation of beta power could be related to disturbance in excitatory/inhibitory intracortical circuitry.
Decoupled spectral tuning and eye size diversification patterns in an Antarctic adaptive radiation
Authors: Yoder Ella B. , Parker Elyse , Tew Alexandra , Jones Christopher D. , Dornburg Alex
Published: September 2022

Evolutionary transitions in water column usage have played a major role in shaping ray-finned fish diversity. However, the extent to which vision-associated trait complexity and water column usage is coupled remains unclear. Here we investigate the relationship between depth niche, eye size, and the molecular basis of light detection across the Antarctic notothenioid adaptive radiation. Using a phylogenetic comparative framework, we integrate sequence analyses of opsin tuning sites with data on eye size and depth occupancy from over two decades of NOAA trawl-based surveys. We find a consistent signature of changes in tuning sites suggestive of shifts in their ability to detect lower wavelengths of light. These represent repeated instances of independent tuning site changes across the notothenioid phylogeny that are generally not associated with habitat depth or species eye size. We further reveal an acceleration in the rate of eye size diversification nearly 20 million years after the initial radiation that has manifested in high levels of eye size divergence among closely related taxa. Collectively, our results strongly support a decoupling of the diversification dynamics between opsin tuning sites, eye size and depth, providing a new perspective of the evolution of the visual system in this iconic adaptive radiation.
Vaccine Approach for Human Monkeypox over the Years and Current Recommendations to Prevent the Outbreak: A Rapid Review
Authors: Ara Rifat , Rahman Tajrin , Nath Rima , Islam A.M. Khairul , Haque Miah MD Akiful , Rahman Md. Ferdous , Nabi Mohammad Hayatun , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: September 2022

World Health Organization has declared human monkeypox as a global health emergency on 23 July 2022. This indicates that the outbreak poses a serious risk to global health and requires a united worldwide response to stop the virus from spreading and possibly turning into a pandemic. Vaccines can play a vital role in this context, contributing to pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis. The aim of our rapid review was to go through the background of the vaccine approach for human monkeypox over the years and to find out what current guidelines are highlighting relating to it. 22 relevant published articles from MEDLINE bibliographic database and 8 vaccine recommendations from manual searching have been deliberated here. The significant synopsis of this review is that the smallpox vaccine is the only immunization option for monkeypox so far, and it is up to 85% effective to prevent the infection. Third-generation smallpox vaccines are advised over first and second generations due to their minimal side effects. Healthcare providers and lab professionals at risk are on the priority list to get vaccinated, as well as pregnant women or lactating mothers, immunocompromised or chronic ill patients, can get vaccinated if they are surely exposed to the monkeypox infection. Lastly, JYNNEOS/IMVAMUNE is the current most preferable smallpox vaccine that is highly advised for the latest outbreak of human monkeypox but more clinical trial on humans should be conducted to evaluate its safety, efficacy, and adverse events.
National snakebite project on capacity building of health system on prevention and management of snakebite envenoming including its complications in selected districts of Maharashtra and Odisha in India: a study protocol
Authors: Gajbhiye Rahul K , Chaaithanya Itta Krishna , Munshi Hrishikesh , Prusty Ranjan Kumar , Mahapatra Amarendra , Palo Subrata Kumar , Pati Sanghamitra , Yadav Arun , Bansode Manohar , Shambharkar Shashikant , Madavi Kanna , Bawaskar Himmatrao S , Mahale Smita D
Published: September 2022

Background

Snakebite envenoming (SBE) is an acute, life-threatening emergency in tropical and subtropical countries. It is an occupational hazard and a major socioeconomic determinant. Limited awareness, superstitions, lack of trained health providers, poor utilization of anti-venom results in high mortality and morbidity. India is the snakebite capital of the world. Yet, information on awareness, knowledge, and perceptions about snakebite is limited. Data on capacity building of health systems and its potential impact is lacking. Recommended by the National Task Force on snakebite research in India, this protocol describes the National Snakebite Project aiming for capacity building of health systems on prevention and management of snakebite envenomation in Maharashtra and Odisha states.

Methods

A cross-sectional, multi-centric study will be carried out in Shahapur, Aheri blocks of Maharashtra, and Khordha, Kasipur blocks of Odisha. The study has five phases: Phase I involves the collection of retrospective baseline data of snakebites, facility surveys, and community focus group discussions (FGDs). Phase II involves developing and implementing educational intervention programs for the community. Phase III will assess the knowledge and practices of the healthcare providers on snakebite management followed by their training in Phase IV. Phase V will evaluate the impact of the interventions on the community and healthcare system through FGDs and comparison of prospective and baseline data.

Discussion

The National Snakebite Project will use a multi-sectoral approach to reduce the burden of SBE. It intends to contribute to community empowerment and capacity building of the public healthcare system on the prevention and management of SBE. The results could be useful for upscaling to other Indian states, South Asia and other tropical countries. The findings of the study will provide critical regional inputs for the revision of the National Snakebite Treatment Protocol.

Trial Registration

Registered under the Clinical Trials Registry India no. CTRI/2021/11/038137.
Citation tracking for systematic literature searching: a scoping review
Authors: Hirt Julian , Nordhausen Thomas , Appenzeller-Herzog Christian , Ewald Hannah
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Citation tracking (CT) collects references with citation relationships to pertinent references that are already known. This scoping review maps the benefit of and the tools and terminology used for CT in health-related systematic literature searching.

Methods

We included methodological studies on evidence retrieval by CT in health-related literature searching without restrictions on study design, language, or publication date. We searched MEDLINE/Ovid, Web of Science Core Collection, CINAHL/EBSCOhost, LLISFT/EBSCOhost, LISTA/EBSCOhost, conducted web searching via Google Scholar, backward/forward CT of included studies and pertinent reviews, and contacting of experts. Two reviewers independently assessed eligibility. Data extraction and analysis were performed by one reviewer and checked by another.

Results

We screened 11,861 references and included 47 studies published between 1985 and 2021. Most studies (96%) assessed the benefit of CT either as supplementary or stand-alone search method. Added value of CT for evidence retrieval was found by 96% of them. Science Citation Index and Social Sciences Citation Index were the most common citation indexes used. Application of multiple citation indexes in parallel, co-citing or co-cited references, CT iterations, or software tools was rare. CT terminology was heterogeneous and frequently ambiguous.

Conclusions

The use of CT showed an added value in most of the identified studies; however, the benefit of CT in health-related systematic literature searching likely depends on multiple factors that could not be assessed with certainty. Application, terminology, and reporting are heterogeneous. Based on our results, we plan a Delphi study to develop standard recommendations for the use and reporting of CT.
Genomic Risk Scores and Oral Contraceptive-Associated Ischemic Stroke Risk
Authors: Lin Forrest , Tomppo Liisa , Gaynor Brady , Ryan Kathleen , Cole John W. , Mitchell Braxton D. , Putaala Jukka , Kittner Steven J.
Published: September 2022

Background

Oral contraceptives (OCs) are generally safe but vascular risk factors increase OC-associated ischemic stroke risk. We performed a case-control study to evaluate whether a genomic risk score for ischemic stroke modifies OC-associated ischemic stroke risk.

Methods

The Genetics of Early-Onset Stroke (GEOS) study includes 340 premenopausal women (143 ischemic stroke cases and 197 controls) with data on OC use within 30 days before the index event (for cases) or interview (for controls). Using a previously validated genetic risk score (metaGRS) for ischemic stroke based on 19 polygenic risk scores of vascular events and risk factors, we stratified our sample into tertiles of genomic risk. We evaluated the association between OC use and ischemic stroke within each tertile. We tested if the association between OC use and ischemic stroke depended on the genomic risk of stroke using logistic regression with an OC use × metaGRS interaction term.

Results

Among all women, OC use was significantly associated with ischemic stroke (odds ratio = 2.4, p = 0.002). The odds ratio for ischemic stroke associated with OC use increased from 1.5 in the tertile with the lowest genomic risk to 3.9 in the tertile with the highest genomic risk of ischemic stroke. The formal test of interaction was consistent with our hypothesis (p = 0.07) that the genomic risk score modifies the association of OC use with ischemic stroke.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that genomic profile modifies the OC-associated ischemic stroke risk. Larger studies are warranted to determine whether a genomic risk score could be clinically useful in reducing OC-associated ischemic stroke.
Sensitivity of diffusion-tensor and correlated diffusion imaging to white-matter microstructural abnormalities: application in COVID-19
Authors: Teller Nick , Chad Jordan A. , Wong Alexander , Gunraj Hayden , Ji Xiang , MacIntosh Bradley J , Gilboa Asaf , Roudaia Eugenie , Sekuler Allison , Lam Benjamin , Heyn Chris , Black Sandra E , Graham Simon J , Chen J. Jean
Published: September 2022

There has been growing attention on the effect of COVID-19 on white-matter microstructure, especially among those that self-isolated after being infected. There is also immense scientific interest and potential clinical utility to evaluate the sensitivity of single-shell diffusion MRI methods for detecting such effects. In this work, the sensitivities of three single-shell-compatible diffusion MRI modeling methods are compared for detecting the effect of COVID-19, including diffusion-tensor imaging, diffusion-tensor decomposition of orthogonal moments and correlated diffusion imaging. Imaging was performed on self-isolated patients at baseline and 3-month follow-up, along with age- and sex-matched controls. We demonstrate through simulations and experimental data that correlated diffusion imaging is associated with far greater sensitivity, being the only one of the three single-shell methods to demonstrate COVID-19-related brain effects. Results suggest less restricted diffusion in the frontal lobe in COVID-19 patients, but also more restricted diffusion in the cerebellar white matter, in agreement with several existing studies highlighting the vulnerability of the cerebellum to COVID-19 infection. These results, taken together with the simulation results, suggest that a significant proportion of COVID-19 related white-matter microstructural pathology manifests as a change in water diffusivity. Interestingly, different b-values also confer different sensitivities to the effects. No significant difference was observed in patients at the 3-month follow-up, likely due to the limited size of the follow-up cohort. To summarize, correlated diffusion imaging is shown to be a sensitive single-shell diffusion analysis approach that allows us to uncover opposing patterns of diffusion changes in the frontal and cerebellar regions of COVID-19 patients, suggesting the two regions react differently to viral infection.
An era of digitalization: mobile banking adoption in India
Authors: Sharma Shweta , Khurana Manpreet Kaur
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aims to identify the critical factors that can explain the intention of customers to adopt mobile banking services (MBSs) in an emerging country like India. Further, this study analyzes the difference in mobile banking adoption between males and females.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a self-structured questionnaire to collect data on a sample of 143 respondents. On the contrary, qualitative research was conducted to test the reliability of results from the past literature by a hypothetical study.

Findings

This study identified four components, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, compatibility and perceived risk, using principal component analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, significantly influencing the intention to adopt MBS in India. However, the Chi-square test reflected a negligible percentage difference in MBS among males and females.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study have significant implications for both bankers and practitioners, as they can redesign their strategies by incorporating the parameters suggested in the study for better market penetration in the mobile banking industry.

Originality/value

This paper provides visions into factors influencing the behavior of banking users toward adopting new technology in an emerging country like India. This study adds to the past literature by exploring the difference in the percentage of mobile banking usage based on gender.
The solutions of dissipation-dispersive models arising in material science
Authors: Pinar Izgi Zehra
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The aim of this work is to obtain periodic waves of Eq. (1) via ansatz-based methods. So, the open questions are replied and the gap will be filled in the literature. Additionally, the comparison of the considered models (Eq. (1) and Eq. (2)) due to their performance. Although it is extremely difficult to find the exact wave solutions in Eq. (1) and Eq. (2) without any assumptions, the targeted solutions have been obtained with the chosen method.

Design/methodology/approach

Material science is the today's popular research area. So, the well-known model is the dissipation double dispersive nonlinear equation and, in the literature, open queries have been seen. The aim of this work is to reply open queries by obtaining wave solutions of the dissipation double dispersive model, double dispersive model and double dispersive model for Murnaghan's material via ansatz-based methods.

Findings

The results have been appeared for the first time in this communication work and they may be valuable for developing uses in material science.

Originality/value

The exact wave solutions of Eq. (1) and Eq. (2) without any assumptions have been obtained with via ansatz-based method. So, the open questions are replied and the gap will be filled in the literature.
Emotional labour strategies and job burnout: A meta‐analysis of Chinese employees
Authors: Yin Yingying , Sun Shiyue , Song Lili , Jin Cancan , Wang Yong
Published: September 2022

Emotional labour strategies have a significant impact on job burnout. However, current research results are controversial and unclear. A meta‐analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between emotional labour strategies (surface acting and deep acting) and job burnout. A total of 84 empirical studies that included 28,242 participants were selected. The meta‐analysis of the relationships between job burnout and surface acting and deep acting included 84 and 75 independent samples respectively. The results show that surface acting had a positive association (r = 0.25) with job burnout, whereas deep acting (r = −0.27) had a negative association with job burnout. Occupational types and measures of emotional labour strategies moderated the relationship between emotional labour strategies and job burnout, but this relationship was not moderated by measures of job burnout.
Neuropeptide Y regulates cholesterol uptake and efflux in macrophages and promotes foam cell formation
Authors: Cai Yu , Wang Zhengchao , Li Lun , He Li , Wu Xinying , Zhang Mingjing , Zhu Pengfei
Published: September 2022

The dysregulation of lipid metabolic pathways (cholesterol uptake and efflux) in macrophages results in the formation of lipid‐dense macrophages, named foam cells, that participate in plaque formation. NPY binding to NPY receptors in macrophages can modulate cell functions and affect the process of atherosclerotic plaques. The present study aimed to determine whether NPY affects the formation of macrophage‐derived foam cells and its underlying mechanisms in macrophages. THP‐1‐derived macrophages were incubated with oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) and treated with different concentrations of NPY. We analysed the relative levels of proteins related to cholesterol uptake and efflux. We found that NPY effectively increased cholesterol uptake and intracellular cholesterol content via the Y1 and Y5 receptors, and this effect was blocked by Y1 and Y5 antagonists. Mechanistically, NPY enhanced the expression of SRA and CD36 via the PKC/PPARγ pathways, promoting macrophage cholesterol uptake. Moreover, NPY significantly decreased cholesterol efflux to the extracellular cholesterol acceptors ApoA1 and HDL in macrophages. NPY mediated decreases in ABCA1, ABCG1 and SR‐BI expression through the inhibition of the JAK/STAT3 pathways. Our results suggest that NPY binding to the Y1 and Y5 receptors enhances foam cell formation by regulating cholesterol uptake and efflux in macrophages.
Anti‐human neutrophil antigen‐1d specificity is frequently observed in anti‐human neutrophil antigen‐1b alloantisera
Authors: Grabowski Claudia , Reil Angelika , Bux Jürgen , Bayat Behnaz , Sachs Ulrich J.
Published: September 2022

Background

Four amino acids are involved in epitope formation of human neutrophil antigens (HNA)‐1 alleles, located at positions 36, 65, 78, and 82. HNA‐1a and HNA‐1b alloantibody epitopes were recently characterized. The HNA‐1b allele also carries the HNA‐1d epitope p.78A&p.82N. The current study aimed to identify compound antibody specificities in HNA‐1b alloantisera, especially the presence of anti‐HNA‐1d.

Study Design and Methods

For investigation of binding epitopes for HNA‐1b alloantibodies, cells stably expressing different HNA‐1 alleles were generated and tested against previously well‐characterized HNA‐1b antisera (n = 11) in an antigen capture assay. Sera with p.82N specificity or p.36S and p.82N specificity were additionally analyzed using adsorption and elution methods.

Results

Three amino acids, p.36S, p.78A, and p.82N, are involved in epitope formation of HNA‐1b. The following specificities were identified in 11 HNA‐1b alloantisera: p.36S (6/11), p.82N (9/11), and p.78A&p.82N (8/11), of which p.36S was identified as a sole entity in 2/11, whereas 9/11 antisera contained a polyspecific mixture of anti‐p.36S, p.82N (1/11), and anti‐p.78A&p.82N in combination with anti p.82N (5/11) or compound specificities of anti‐p.36S, p.82N, and p.78A&p82N (3/11). In seven of eight antisera with p.82N specificity, anti‐p.78A&p.82N was detected.

Discussion

Analysis of HNA‐1b antisera indicates compound specificities for HNA‐1b alloantibodies with a high variation between HNA‐1b immunized individuals. Amino acids p.36S, p.82N, and p.78A&p.82N are necessary for HNA‐1b epitope formation. The HNA‐1d epitope is recognized by 73% (8/11) of HNA‐1b immunized individuals.
New Temperature and Heat Loss Charts for One-Dimensional, Transient Heat Conduction
Authors: Wei Tie , Abraham John , Wang Yanxing
Published: September 2022

New temperature and heat loss charts have been created for one-dimensional, transient conduction. In the new charts, time is scaled by a weighted sum of the lumped capacitance time scale tLC and the diffusion time scale tdiff: tref=a tLC+b tdiff, where a and b are constants. As the Biot number approaches zero, the diffusion time scale is much smaller than the lumped capacitance time scale (tdiff≪tLC), so the new time scale is equivalent to the lumped capacitance time scale. As the Biot number approaches infinity, the diffusion time scale is much larger than the lumped capacitance time scale (tdiff≫tLC), so the new time scale is equivalent to the diffusion time scale. Using the new time scale, the dimensionless temperature excess and heat loss fraction can be compactly presented in a single plot. The new time scale and associated plots cast new light on some fundamental aspects of the study of conductive heat transfer, and simplify the design process.
Deformation and Damage Behavior of a 1Cr-Cast Steel Under Multiaxial Loading at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Kontermann Christian , Erbe Alexander , Conrad Fabian , Kraemer Karl Michael , Kulawinski Dirk , Bianchini Massimiliano , Oechsner Matthias
Published: September 2022

Rising demands on material performance at high temperature in components under complex loading such as steam- and gas turbine housings require an increase in versatility and precision of component life modeling approaches. However, the database to calibrate those models is commonly derived from uni-axial testing. The impact of multi-axial loading, both proportional and nonproportional, is usually addressed theoretically by the use of equivalent stress/strain formulations or reduction ratios derived from few specific validation tests. Therefore, a research program which systematically investigates the fatigue life of a 1Cr-cast steel both experimentally and theoretically has been initiated recently. For the experimental part, cruciform specimens are tested in a servohydraulic biaxial test rig equipped with an induction heating device. Each experiment is accompanied with finite element simulations before and after the test to parametrize the loading condition and derive equivalent loading parameters at hot-spot locations. When assessing cycles until crack initiation in the experiments using the von Mises equivalent strain range, a reoccurring sequence in the impact of the axis ratio can be observed. Beside the fatigue life in terms of cycles to crack initiation, the multi-axial loading conditions may also affect the deformation behavior, in detail cyclic softening. Such effects are discussed by comparing the produced experimental evidence with results gained from a unified constitutive material model. Furthermore, different lifetime parameters are applied in order to judge their accuracy and suitability for design applications.
Steady Two-Dimensional Conduction: Simple and Double Layer Potentials, Corner Singularities, and Induced Heat Flux
Authors: Lienhard John H.
Published: September 2022

Two-dimensional steady-state heat conduction is possible outside closed boundaries on which two isothermal segments at different temperatures are separated by two adiabatic segments. Remarkably, previous research showed that the conduction shape factor for the region exterior to the boundary is equal to that for the interior region, despite the asymmetry and singularity of the boundary heat flux distributions. In this study, classical potential theory is used for the temperature and heat flux distributions as a combination of simple-layer and double-layer potentials, including the relationships between the values inside and outside the boundary curve. Isothermal boundaries exhibit an induced heat flux that varies from point-to-point on the boundary. The induced flux integrates to zero over each isothermal edge. Singularities of the heat flux are identified and resolved. Computations that validate the theory are provided for mixed boundary conditions on a disk and a square. Numerical fits to both the simple-layer and double-layer densities are given for the disk and the square. The analysis explains why the interior and exterior conduction shape factors are equal despite wildly differing heat flux distributions, and the results are compared to a previous study of this configuration. This paper also develops fundamental concepts of potential theory and can serve as a tutorial on the subject.
The Assessment of 24-Hr Physical Behavior in Children and Adolescents via Wearables: A Systematic Review of Laboratory Validation Studies
Authors: Giurgiu Marco , Nigg Carina , Fiedler Janis , Timm Irina , Rulf Ellen , Bussmann Johannes B.J. , Nigg Claudio R. , Woll Alexander , Ebner-Priemer Ulrich W.
Published: September 2022

Purpose: To raise attention to the quality of published validation protocols while comparing (in)consistencies and providing an overview on wearables, and whether they show promise or not. Methods: Searches from five electronic databases were included concerning the following eligibility criteria: (a) laboratory conditions with humans (<18 years), (b) device outcome must belong to one dimension of the 24-hr physical behavior construct (i.e., intensity, posture/activity type outcomes, biological state), (c) must include a criterion measure, and (d) published in a peer-reviewed English language journal between 1980 and 2021. Results: Out of 13,285 unique search results, 123 articles were included. In 86 studies, children <13 years were recruited, whereas in 26 studies adolescents (13–18 years) were recruited. Most studies (73.2%) validated an intensity outcome such as energy expenditure; only 20.3% and 13.8% of studies validated biological state or posture/activity type outcomes, respectively. We identified 14 wearables that had been used to validate outcomes from two or three different dimensions. Most (n = 72) of the identified 88 wearables were only validated once. Risk of bias assessment resulted in 7.3% of studies being classified as “low risk,” 28.5% as “some concerns,” and 71.5% as “high risk.” Conclusion: Overall, laboratory validation studies of wearables are characterized by low methodological quality, large variability in design, and a focus on intensity. No identified wearable provides valid results across all three dimensions of the 24-hr physical behavior construct. Future research should more strongly aim at biological state and posture/activity type outcomes, and strive for standardized protocols embedded in a validation framework.
Complete Genome Sequences of Five Phietaviruses Infecting Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Andrews Taylor P. , Hoyer J. Steen , Fahrenfeld Nicole L. , Boyd Jeffrey M. , Duffy Siobain
Published: September 2022

The annotated whole-genome sequences of five cultured phietaviruses infecting
Staphylococcus aureus
are presented. They are closely related to prophages that were previously sequenced as part of
S. aureus
genomes.
Perspectives on Inequity and Health Disparities in Chile and Their Relationship to Microbial Ecology
Authors: Izcue José , Palacios-García Ismael , Rojas Traverso Felipe , Koller Macarena , Parada Francisco J.
Published: September 2022

Among countries in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Chile stands out as having important inequalities in income distribution, dietary quality, access to urban green spaces, and health outcomes. People in lower socioeconomic groups consistently show higher rates of noncommunicable chronic diseases and are being hit the hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic.