bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complications, Costs, and Quality Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Cervical Deformity Surgery With Intraoperative BMP Use
Authors: Varshneya Kunal , Wadhwa Harsh , Pendharkar Arjun V. , Medress Zachary A. , Stienen Martin N. , Ratliff John K. , Veeravagu Anand
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

An epidemiological study using national administrative data from the MarketScan database.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to identify the impact of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing adult cervical deformity (ACD) surgery.

Summary of Background Data.

BMP has been shown to stimulate bone growth and improve fusion rates in spine surgery. However, the impact of BMP on reoperation rates and postoperative complication rate is controversial.

Methods.

We queried the MarketScan database to identify patients who underwent ACD surgery from 2007 to 2015. Patients were stratified by BMP use in the index operation. Patients <18 years and those with any history of tumor or trauma were excluded. Baseline demographics and comorbidities, postoperative complication rates, and reoperation rates were analyzed.

Results.

A total of 13,549 patients underwent primary ACD surgery, of which 1155 (8.5%) had intraoperative BMP use. The overall 90-day complication rate was 27.6% in the non-BMP cohort and 31.1% in the BMP cohort (P < 0.05). Patients in the BMP cohort had longer average length of stay (4.0 days vs. 3.7 days, P < 0.05) but lower revision surgery rates at 90 days (14.5% vs. 28.3%, P < 0.05), 6 months (14.9% vs. 28.6%, P < 0.05), 1 year (15.7% vs. 29.2%, P < 0.05), and 2 years (16.5% vs. 29.9%, P < 0.05) postoperatively. BMP use was associated with higher payments throughout the 2-year follow-up period ($107,975 vs. $97,620, P < 0.05). When controlling for baseline group differences, BMP use independently increased the odds of postoperative complication (odds ratio [OR] 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–1.4) and reduced the odds of reoperation throughout 2 years of follow-up (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.4–0.6).

Conclusion.

Intraoperative BMP use has benefits for fusion integrity in ACD surgery but is associated with increased postoperative complication rate. Spine surgeons should weigh these benefits and drawbacks to identify optimal candidates for BMP use in ACD surgery.

Level of Evidence: 3
Performance of Everyday Occupations and Perceived Health of Spouses of Men With Spinal Cord Injury at Discharge and 6 Months Later
Authors: Treisman Hadas , Ratzon Navah Z. , Itzkovich Malka , Avrech Bar Michal
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

An exploratory longitudinal study.

Objectives.

(a) Compare the occupational performance, and life satisfaction of spouses of men with SCI with those of spouses of healthy men, (b) compare the occupational performance, perceived health, and life satisfaction of spouses of men with SCI at discharge from inpatient rehabilitation and 6 months postdischarge; and (c) assess whether the functioning levels of men with SCI and the perceived mental health of the spouse, correlate with her occupational performance.

Summary of Background Data.

Spouses of men with spinal cord injury (SCI) report having symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, their ability to choose everyday occupations and perform them satisfactorily (occupational performance) was less studied.

Methods.

Fifteen women spouses of men with SCI and 15 women spouses of healthy men participated. Study measures included four self-report questionnaires and the Occupational Performance History Interview that was analyzed quantitatively and measured occupational performance by three components: occupational identity, competence, and settings.

Results.

Occupational performance and life satisfaction of caregivers were lower than those of spouses of healthy men and did not significantly change over 6 months. However, they had higher scores on physical, mental, and general health 6 months postdischarge than at discharge. Mental health of the spouse correlated with her occupational identity.

Conclusion.

It is recommended that rehabilitation intervention focus not only on patients with SCI, but also on their healthy spouses to promote their occupational performance, health, and well-being.

Level of Evidence: 3
Parents’/Patients’ Perception of the Informed Consent Process and Surgeons Accountability in Corrective Surgery for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Chan Chris Yin Wei , Chong Jessamine Sze Lynn , Lee Sin Ying , Ch’ng Pei Ying , Chung Weng Hong , Chiu Chee Kidd , Hasan Mohd Shahnaz , Kwan Mun Keong
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

Prospective study.

Objective.

To determine the parents’/patients’ perception on the informed consent process prior to posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients.

Summary of Background Data.

Understanding parents/patients perspective on the process is important in order to achieve the goal of consent and prevent medico-legal implications.

Methods.

Fifty AIS patients operated between August 2019 and November 2019 were prospectively recruited. Parents’/patients’ perceptions on three sections were evaluated: the process of the informed consent, specific operative risk which they were most concerned with and the accountability of surgeons for the surgical risks. These data were ranked and scored using a 5-point Likert Scale. Preferences were reported in mean and standard deviation. Differences in terms of preferences were studied using One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) analysis and deemed significant when P < 0.05.

Results.

There were 30 females (60.0%) and 20 males (40.0%) with a mean age of 41.8 ± 10.6 years. Majority of parents/patients preferred the inform consent to be explained more than once (P = 0.021), once during clinic consultation and once during admission (4.2 ± 1.0). Consent taking by both attending surgeons was preferred (4.5 ± 0.6) compared with other healthcare providers, P < 0.001. Death (60.0%) and neurological deficit (30.0%) were the two most concerned surgical risks. Parents/patients would still hold the surgeon accountable for any complications despite signing the informed consent and they felt that surgeons were directly responsible for screw-related injuries (3.9 ± 0.9), neurological injury (3.8 ± 0.9), and intraoperative bleeding (3.7 ± 0.9).

Conclusion.

Parents/patients preferred the attending surgeons to personally explain the informed consent, more than once with the use of visual aid. They would still hold the surgeons accountable when complications occur despite acceptance of the informed consent.

Level of Evidence: 2.
Expression Analysis of Susceptibility Genes for Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament of the Cervical Spine in Human OPLL-related Tissues and a Spinal Hyperostotic Mouse (ttw/ttw)
Authors: Nakajima Hideaki , Watanabe Shuji , Honjoh Kazuya , Okawa Atsushi , Matsumoto Morio , Matsumine Akihiko
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

Immunohistochemical and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to analyze the expression of five susceptibility genes (RSPO2, HAO1, CCDC91, RHPH9, and STK38L) for human ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligaments (OPLL) identified in a genome-wide association study.

Summary of Background Data.

Detailed expression and functional studies for the five susceptibility genes are needed to aid in clarification of the etiology and pathogenesis of OPLL.

Methods.

Immunostaining, cell culture, and real-time RT-PCR were performed on ossified ligament samples collected during anterior cervical decompression for symptomatic OPLL (n = 39 patients) and on control non-OPLL samples (n = 8 patients). Immunohistochemical analysis in spinal hyperostotic mice (ttw/ttw) (n = 25) was also performed. The sample sections were stained for RSPO2, HAO1, CCDC91, RHPH9, STK38L, Runx2, Sox9, and CD90. The mRNA expression levels of the five susceptibility genes were also analyzed in cultured human OPLL and non-OPLL cells subjected to cyclic tensile strain.

Results.

Immunoreactivity for RSPO2 and Sox9 was evident in proliferating chondrocytes in human OPLL tissues and ttw/ttw mice. Application of cyclic tensile strain to cultured human OPLL cells resulted in increases in mRNA levels for RSPO2, HAO1, and CCDC91. However, individual differences in expression in human OPLL-related samples were seen. HAO1-positive cells were detected only in 3- to 6-week-old ttw/ttw mice that did not simultaneously express RSPO2-positive samples.

Conclusion.

Among the five susceptibility genes, RSPO2, HAO1, and CCDC91 might be contributory factors in progression of OPLL. RSPO2 may be involved in endochondral ossification, especially in mixed or continuous type OPLL, HAO1 may be an initiation factor for OPLL that is rarely seen in mature human OPLL samples, and CCDC91 may be associated with progression of ossification caused by mechanical stress. These findings provide important insights into the pathogenesis and therapeutic targets for OPLL.

Level of Evidence: N/A.
Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2T regulates cell proliferation and migration in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Fangfeng , Zhu Chengfang , Gao Pengfei , Zheng Shunzhen , Li Chunyou
Published: August 2020

Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2T (UBE2T) is overexpressed in several human cancer cells, but a role in cholangiocarcinoma (CAA) progression has not been investigated. We analyzed the expression of UBE2T in CAA tissues. Then, we generated UBE2T deregulation models in which it was overexpressed or silenced, and examined the effects on CAA malignant progression by flow cytometry, western blot, MTT assay, wound healing assay and transwell assay. We report the involvement of UBE2T in CAA malignant progression. UBE2T was found to be highly expressed in human CAA cells both in vitro and in vivo. Overexpression of UBE2T significantly enhanced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, proliferation, migration and invasion of CAA cells in vitro, while silencing UBE2T had opposing effects. Furthermore, UBE2T appears to exert its effects via the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway as the cellular effects caused by UBE2T overexpression are inhibited by the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin. Our findings suggest that UBE2T may have potential as a new therapeutic target for the prevention or treatment of CAA.
Spirometric Outcomes and Oxidative Stress Among Cement Factory Workers
Authors: Shanshal Sadeel A. , Al-Qazaz Harith Kh.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Cement industry workers are at high risk due to the dust emitted at various steps of its production. Pulmonary damage is the most important hazard. This work aimed to evaluate lung function and oxidative stress parameters of the workers.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study involving 97 workers in four cement factories was conducted from December/2019 to March/2020. Data collection was performed by spirometry test and measuring oxidative stress parameters.

Results:

There were significant differences in forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) between workers in milling and packaging departments. Negative correlations were found between oxidative stress and spirometric parameters.

Conclusions:

Prolonged occupational exposure to cement dust could worsen the pulmonary function. Working in milling department is associated with a pronounced effect on oxidative stress. Higher oxidative stress parameters were associated with lower pulmonary function.
Periodontitis, coronary heart disease and myocardial infarction: treat one, benefit all
Authors: Nocini Riccardo , Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Sanchis-Gomar Fabian , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: August 2020

Periodontal disease is conventionally defined as an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth (i.e. gum and periodontium). Recent statistics show that the prevalence of this condition is continuously growing worldwide, thus raising severe healthcare concerns, not only for local problems emerging from poor oral health, but also for the potential risk of developing systemic complications. Therefore, this article aims to provide an update on the intriguing association between periodontitis, coronary heart disease (CHD) and/or myocardial infarction (MI). Taken together, the available published information seems to support the existence of a significant association between periodontitis and CHD, whilst the risk of acute ischemic cardiac events appears magnified in patients with preexisting coronary artery disease. This epidemiological link is supported by reliable biological evidence, showing that periodontal disease may unfavourably modulate the cardiovascular risk, whereby patients with periodontitis have increased frequency of overweight, hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, dyslipidaemia, platelet hyper-reactivity, and may also be characterized by a prothrombotic state. Apart from these critical atherogenic factors, translocation of periodontal microorganisms into the bloodstream, and their further accumulation within atherosclerotic plaques, would contribute to enhance plaque instability and the risk of developing acute ischemic coronary events. Interesting evidence is also emerging that local or systemic statins administration could be beneficial for safeguarding periodontal health, thus enlightening the intriguing relationship existing between CHD and periodontitis.
Are Iranian patients with von Willebrand disease type 2N properly differentiated from hemophilia A and do they receive appropriate treatment?
Authors: Seidi Zadeh Omid , Ahmadinejad Minoo , Amoohossein Behnaz , Homayoun Sanaz
Published: August 2020

The defect function of the von Willebrand factor (VWF) in carrying factor VIII (FVIII) leads to von Willebrand disease type 2N (VWD 2N) which could be easily misdiagnosed as hemophilia A. Differentiating of VWD 2N from hemophilia A is crucial for patient treatment and genetic counseling. As a retrospective study, we aimed to evaluate the current diagnostic work-up of Iranian patients with mild/moderate deficiency of FVIII levels and the possibility of misdiagnosis of VWD 2N as hemophilia A. All patients who referred to the reference coagulation laboratory at the Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization in a 10-months period for bleeding diathesis work-up with the request of FVIII activity level were included. Clinical and laboratory phenotypes including International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis – Bleeding Assessment Tool, FVIII activity, VWF antigen, VWF ristocetin cofactor, and FVIII binding capacity of VWF were assessed on suspected cases for VWD 2N. In total, the results of 896 patients for investigation of VWD 2N were evaluated and five new patients were identified within unrelated families with abnormal VWF:FVIIIB levels. Four were heterozygous for VWD 2N and one homozygous whom all were misdiagnosed as hemophilia A and underwent inappropriate treatments. The median bleeding score of the VWD 2N population was nine (4–13). In Iran, probably a significant number of VWD 2N patients are misdiagnosed as hemophilia A due to insufficient test panel for subtyping of von Willebrand disease. This study also emphasized the need for inclusion of the VWF:FVIIIB in suspected hemophilia A to achieve an optimal treatment strategy.
Efficacy and safety of eltrombopag during conception and first trimester of pregnancy in a case of refractory severe immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Sammartano Vincenzo , Santoni Adele , Defina Marzia , Ciofini Sara , Cencini Emanuele , Bocchia Monica
Published: August 2020

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a relatively frequent cause of thrombocytopenia during pregnancy. Thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs) are the most recent drugs approved for second-line treatment of ITP. Limited data are available about their use in pregnancy with only a few published cases; yet no data exist about their effect when administered only during conception and first trimester of gestation. We describe the case of a woman with refractory ITP who took eltrombopag during conception and first trimester of pregnancy. No fetal or maternal complications were reported. Moreover, the patient remained in complete response after delivery despite therapy discontinuation. The analysis of this case and the revision of the available literature suggest that the use of TPO-RAs, thanks to their short time to response, may be effective and feasible during the first trimester of pregnancy, even if not yet recommended by current guidelines.
Optic Nerve Hypoplasia: “Neural Guidance” and the Role of Mentorship
Authors: Brodsky Michael C.
Published: August 2020

Over the past 50 years, our understanding of optic nerve hypoplasia has advanced in a series of waves, with each wave producing a paradigm shift in clinical diagnosis and management. First was the recognition that optic nerve hypoplasia is a condition distinct from optic atrophy and is a frequent cause of blindness in children. Second was the identification of associated brain malformations. Third was the realization that many children with optic nerve hypoplasia have hypopituitarism. Fourth was the identification of segmental forms of optic nerve hypoplasia. Fifth was the recognition that some children are at risk for sudden death, which can often be prevented with preemptive measures. Last was the identification of additional systemic accompaniments. Genetic studies have been largely unfruitful and, for most cases, the cause remains unknown.
The Role of Neuro-Ophthalmologists in the Care of Patients With Neurofibromatosis Type 2
Authors: Landau Klara
Published: August 2020

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a rare genetic disorder, affecting the central nervous system and leading to various degrees of disability. Its hallmark is bilateral vestibular schwannomas that invariably lead to progressive hearing loss. Specific ophthalmic abnormalities in patients with NF2 may help to establish an early diagnosis. These include juvenile cataract, epiretinal membrane, combined hamartoma of the retina and the retinal pigment epithelium, optic disc glioma, and optic nerve sheath meningioma. In addition, intracranial tumors may produce a variety of neuro-ophthalmic abnormalities that have the potential to impair visual function, such as postpapilledema optic atrophy, compression of the visual pathways, keratopathy, ocular motor cranial nerve palsies, and amblyopia. Care of NF2 patients is best provided by interdisciplinary medical teams including a neuro-ophthalmologist.
Active inter-cellular forces in collective cell motility
Authors: Zhang Guanming , Mueller Romain , Doostmohammadi Amin , Yeomans Julia M.
Published: August 2020

The collective behaviour of confluent cell sheets is strongly influenced both by polar forces, arising through cytoskeletal propulsion, and by active inter-cellular forces, which are mediated by interactions across cell-cell junctions. We use a phase-field model to explore the interplay between these two contributions and compare the dynamics of a cell sheet when the polarity of the cells aligns to (i) their main axis of elongation, (ii) their velocity and (iii) when the polarity direction executes a persistent random walk. In all three cases, we observe a sharp transition from a jammed state (where cell rearrangements are strongly suppressed) to a liquid state (where the cells can move freely relative to each other) when either the polar or the inter-cellular forces are increased. In addition, for case (ii) only, we observe an additional dynamical state, flocking (solid or liquid), where the majority of the cells move in the same direction. The flocking state is seen for strong polar forces, but is destroyed as the strength of the inter-cellular activity is increased.
Decoding the mechanisms underlying cell-fate decision-making during stem cell differentiation by random circuit perturbation
Authors: Huang Bin , Lu Mingyang , Galbraith Madeline , Levine Herbert , Onuchic Jose N. , Jia Dongya
Published: August 2020

Stem cells can precisely and robustly undergo cellular differentiation and lineage commitment, referred to as stemness. However, how the gene network underlying stemness regulation reliably specifies cell fates is not well understood. To address this question, we applied a recently developed computational method,
ra
ndom
ci
rcuit
pe
rturbation (RACIPE), to a nine-component gene regulatory network (GRN) governing stemness, from which we identified robust gene states. Among them, four out of the five most probable gene states exhibit gene expression patterns observed in single mouse embryonic cells at 32-cell and 64-cell stages. These gene states can be robustly predicted by the stemness GRN but not by randomized versions of the stemness GRN. Strikingly, we found a hierarchical structure of the GRN with the Oct4/Cdx2 motif functioning as the first decision-making module followed by Gata6/Nanog. We propose that stem cell populations, instead of being viewed as all having a specific cellular state, can be regarded as a heterogeneous mixture including cells in various states. Upon perturbations by external signals, stem cells lose the capacity to access certain cellular states, thereby becoming differentiated. The new gene states and key parameters regulating transitions among gene states proposed by RACIPE can be used to guide experimental strategies to better understand differentiation and design reprogramming. The findings demonstrate that the functions of the stemness GRN is mainly determined by its well-evolved network topology rather than by detailed kinetic parameters.
Improved COVID-19 testing by extraction free SARS-Cov-2 RT-PCR
Authors: Mokhtar Khelil Mohamed
Published: August 2020

The RNA extraction is an important checkpoint for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in swab samples, but it is a major barrier to available and rapid COVID-19 testing. In this study, we validated the extraction-free RT-qPCR method by heat-treatment as an accurate option to nucleic acid purification in Algerian population.
SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence survey among 18,000 healthcare and administrative personnel at hospitals, pre-hospital services, and specialist practitioners in the Central Denmark Region
Authors: Jespersen Sanne , Mikkelsen Susan , Greve Thomas , Kaspersen Kathrine Agergård , Tolstrup Martin , Boldsen Jens Kjærgaard , Redder Jacob Dvinge , Nielsen Kent , Abildgaard Anders Mønsted , Kolstad Henrik Albert , Østergaard Lars , Thomsen Marianne Kragh , Møller Holger Jon , Erikstrup Christian
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The objective of this study was to perform a large seroprevalence survey on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) among Danish healthcare workers to identify high risk groups.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

All healthcare workers and administrative personnel at the seven hospitals, pre-hospital services and specialist practitioner clinics in the Central Denmark Region were invited by e-mail to be tested for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 by a commercial SARS-CoV-2 total antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA, Wantai Biological Pharmacy Enterprise Co., Ltd., Beijing, China).

Participants

A total of 25,950 participants were invited. Of these, 17,987 (69%) showed up for blood sampling, and 17,971 had samples available for SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing.

Main outcome measures

1) Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies; 2) Risk factors for seropositivity; 3) Association of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antibodies.

Results

After adjustment for assay sensitivity and specificity, the overall seroprevalence was 3.4% (CI: 2.5%-3.8%). The seroprevalence was higher in the western part of the region than in the eastern part (11.9% vs 1.2%, difference: 10.7 percentage points, CI: 9.5-12.2). In the high prevalence area, the emergency departments had the highest seroprevalence (29.7%) while departments without patients or with limited patient contact had the lowest seroprevalence (2.2%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis with age, sex, and profession as the predictors showed that nursing staff, medical doctors, and biomedical laboratory scientists had a higher risk than medical secretaries, who served as reference (OR = 7.3, CI: 3.5–14.9; OR = 4., CI: 1.8–8.9; and OR = 5.0, CI: 2.1–11.6, respectively).

Among the total 668 seropositive participants, 433 (64.8%) had previously been tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, and 50.0% had a positive RT-PCR result. A total of 98% of individuals who had a previous positive viral RNA test were also found to be seropositive.

Conclusions

We found large differences in the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in staff working in the healthcare sector within a small geographical area of Denmark and signs of in-hospital transmission. Half of all seropositive staff had been tested positive by PCR prior to this survey. This study raises awareness of precautions which should be taken to avoid in-hospital transmission. Additionally, regular testing of healthcare workers for SARS-CoV-2 should be considered to identify areas with increased transmission.

Trial registration

The study is approved by the Danish Data Protection Agency (1-16-02-207-20).
Percolation of Microparticle Matrix Promotes Cell Migration and Integration while Supporting Native Tissue Architecture
Authors: Barthold Jeanne E. , St. Martin Brittany M. , Sridhar Shankar Lalitha , Vernerey Franck , Schneider Stephanie Ellyse , Wacquez Alexis , Ferguson Virginia , Calve Sarah , Neu Corey P.
Published: August 2020

Cells embedded in the extracellular matrix of tissues play a critical role in maintaining homeostasis while promoting integration and regeneration following damage or disease. Emerging engineered biomaterials utilize decellularized extracellular matrix as a tissue-specific support structure; however, many dense, structured biomaterials unfortunately demonstrate limited formability, fail to promote cell migration, and result in limited tissue repair. Here, we developed a reinforced composite material of densely packed acellular extracellular matrix microparticles in a hydrogel, termedtissue clay, that can be molded and crosslinked to mimic native tissue architecture. We utilized hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels, amorphously packed with acellular articular cartilage tissue particulated to ~125-250 microns in diameter and defined a percolation threshold of 0.57 (v/v) beyond which the compressive modulus exceeded 300kPa. Remarkably, primary chondrocytes recellularized particles within 48 hours, a process driven by chemotaxis, exhibited distributed cellularity in large engineered composites, and expressed genes consistent with native cartilage repair. We additionally demonstrated broad utility of tissue clays through recellularization and persistence of muscle, skin, and cartilage composites in a subcutaneousin vivomouse model. Our findings suggest optimal strategies and material architectures to balance concurrent demands for large-scale mechanical properties while also supporting integration of dense musculoskeletal and connective tissues.
The Build-Up of Droplet/Aerosols Carrying the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus, in Confined Spaces
Authors: Birnir Björn , Angheluta Luiza
Published: August 2020

A model of the distribution of respiratory droplets and aerosols by Lagrangian turbulent air-flow is developed and used to show how the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus can be dispersed by the breathing of an infected person. It is shown that the concentration of viruses in the exhaled cloud can increase to infectious levels with time, in a confined space where the air recirculates. The model is used to analyze the air-flow and SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus build-up in a restaurant in Guangzhou, China [17, 16]. It is concluded that the outbreak of Covid-19 in the restaurant in January 2020, is due to the build-up of the airborne droplets and aerosols carrying the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus and could not have been prevented by standard air-conditioning.
Common low complexity regions for SARS-CoV-2 and human proteomes as potential multidirectional risk factor in vaccine development
Authors: Gruca Aleksandra , Ziemska-Legiecka Joanna , Jarnot Patryk , Sarnowska Elzbieta , Sarnowski Tomasz J. , Grynberg Marcin
Published: August 2020

The rapid spread of the COVID-19 demands immediate response from the scientific communities. Appropriate countermeasures mean thoughtful and educated choice of viral targets (epitopes). There are several articles that discuss such choices in the SARS-CoV-2 proteome, other focus on phylogenetic traits and history of the Coronaviridae genome/proteome. However none consider viral protein low complexity regions (LCRs). Recently we created the first methods that are able to compare such fragments. We show that five low complexity regions (LCRs) in three proteins (nsp3, S and N) encoded by the SARS-CoV-2 genome are highly similar to regions from human proteome. As many as 21 predicted T-cell epitopes and 27 predicted B-cell epitopes overlap with the five SARS-CoV-2 LCRs similar to human proteins. Interestingly, replication proteins encoded in the central part of viral RNA are devoid of LCRs. Similarity of SARS-CoV-2 LCRs to human proteins may have implications on the ability of the virus to counteract immune defenses. The vaccine targeted LCRs may potentially be ineffective or alternatively lead to autoimmune diseases development. These findings are crucial to the process of selection of new epitopes for drugs or vaccines which should omit such regions.

Author summary

The outbreak of the COVID-19 disease affects humans all over the globe. More and more people get sick and many die because of the deadly SARS-CoV-2 virus. The whole machinery of this pathogen is enclosed in a short sequence of nucleotides, building blocks for both RNA and DNA strands. This RNA virus encodes less than 30 protein sequences that change the fate of our societies. Its proteins are composed of 20 amino acids (building bricks) that are usually used quite freely by proteins. However, there are fragments where only one or a few amino acids are used. We name those low complexity regions (LCRs). We invented the first programmes able to compare such LCRs. Using this new methodology we were able to show similarity of some viral proteins to human ones. This discovery has a serious implication when designing vaccines or drugs. It means that companies should not use these very LCRs as targets because it may trigger an autoimmune disease. On the other hand this specific similarity may suggest some kind of disguise of viral proteins into the machinery of human cells.
Occurrence, identification and antibiogram signatures of selected Enterobacteriaceae from Tsomo and Tyhume rivers in the Eastern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa
Authors: Fadare Folake Temitope , Adefisoye Martins Ajibade , Okoh Anthony Ifeanyi
Published: August 2020

The increasing occurrence of multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in clinical and environmental settings has been seen globally as a complex public health challenge, mostly in the developing nations where they significantly impact on freshwater used for a variety of domestic purposes and irrigation. In this paper, we give details as regards the occurrence and antibiogram signatures of Enterobacteriaceae community in Tsomo and Tyhume rivers within the Eastern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa using standard methods. Average distribution of the presumptive Enterobacteriaceae in the rivers ranged from 1 × 102CFU/100ml to 1.95 × 104CFU/100ml. We confirmed 56 (70.8%) out of 79 presumptive Enterobacteriaceae isolated being species within the family Enterobacteriaceae through the Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight technique. From this,Citrobacter-,Enterobacter-,Klebsiellaspecies andEscherichia coliwere selected (n=40) due to their pathogenic potentials for antibiogram profiling. The results of the antibiotic susceptibility testing gave a revelation that all the isolates were phenotypically multidrug-resistant while resistance against ampicillin (95%), tetracycline and doxycycline (88%) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (85%) antibiotics were most prevalent. The Multiple Antibiotic Resistance indices stretched from 0.22 to 0.94, with the highest index observed in aC. freundiiisolate. Molecular characterisation using the PCR technique revealed the dominance ofblaTEM(30%; 12/40) among the ten groups of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes assayed. The prevalence of others wasblaCTX-Mgenes including group 1, 2 and 9 (27.5%),blaSHV(20%),blaKPC(17.6%),blaGES(11.8%),blaIMP(11.8%),blaVIM(11.8%),blaOXA-1-like(10%),blaPER(2.5%),blaOXA-48-like(5.9%) andblaVEB(0%). From the six plasmid-mediated AmpC (pAmpC) genes investigatedblaACC,blaEBC,blaFOX,blaCIT,blaDHAandblaMOX, only the first four were detected. In this category, the most dominant wasblaEBC,with 18.4% (7/38). The prevalence of the non-β-lactamases includetetA(33.3%),tetB(30.5%), tetC(2.8%),tetD(11.1%),tetK(0%),tetM(13.9%),catI(12%),catII(68%),sulI(14.3%),sulII(22.8%) andaadA(8.3%). Notably, aC. koseriharboured 42.8% (12/28) of the genes assayed for which includes five of the ESBL genes (including the onlyblaPERdetected in this study), two of the pAmpC resistance genes (blaACCandblaCIT) and five of the non-β-lactamase genes. To the best of our knowledge, this study gives the first report onC. koseriexhibiting co-occurrence of ESBL/AmpC β-lactamase genes from the environment. The detection of ablaPERproducingCitrobacterspp. in this study is remarkable. These findings provide evidence that freshwater serves as reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance determinants which can then be easily transferred to human beings via the food chain and water.
Genetic characterization of AmpC and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) phenotypes inEscherichia coliandSalmonellafrom Alberta poultry
Authors: Tran Tam , Checkley Sylvia , Caffrey Niamh , Cassis Rashed , Mainali Chunu , Gow Sheryl , Agunos Agnes , Liljebjelke Karen
Published: August 2020

Horizontal gene transfer is an important mechanism which facilitates bacterial populations in overcoming antimicrobial treatment. In this study, a total of 120Escherichia coliand 62Salmonella entericasubsp.entericaisolates were isolated from poultry farms in Alberta. Fourteen serovars were identified amongSalmonellaisolates. Thirty one percent ofE. coliisolates were multiclass drug resistant (resistant to ≥ 3 drug classes), while only about 16% ofSalmonellaisolates were multiclass drug resistant. Among those, eightE. coliisolates had an AmpC-type phenotype, and oneSalmonellaisolate had an extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-type β-lactamase phenotype. We identified both AmpC-type (blaCMY-2) and ESBL-type (blaTEM) genes in bothE. coliandSalmonellaisolates. Plasmids from eight of nineE. coliandSalmonellaisolates were transferred to recipient strainE. coliJ53 through conjugation. Transferable plasmids in above total eightE. coliandSalmonellaisolates were also transferred into a lab-made sodium azide-resistantSalmonellarecipient through conjugation. The class 1 integrase gene,int1, was detected on plasmids from twoE. coliisolates. Further investigation of class 1 integron cassette regions revealed the presence of anaadAgene encoding streptomycin 3”-adenylyltransferase, anaadA1a/aadA2gene encoding aminoglycoside 3”-O-adenyltransferase, and a putative adenylyltransferase gene. This study provides some insight into potential horizontal gene transfer events of antimicrobial resistance genes betweenE. coliandSalmonellain poultry production.
Lexical influences on categorical speech perception are driven by a temporoparietal circuit
Authors: Bidelman Gavin M. , Pearson Claire , Harrison Ashleigh
Published: August 2020

Categorical judgments of otherwise identical phonemes are biased toward hearing words (i.e., “Ganong effect”) suggesting lexical context influences perception of even basic speech primitives. Lexical biasing could manifest via late stage post-perceptual mechanisms related to decision or alternatively, top-down linguistic inference which acts on early perceptual coding. Here, we exploited the temporal sensitivity of EEG to resolve the spatiotemporal dynamics of these context-related influences on speech categorization. Listeners rapidly classified sounds from a /gi/ - /ki/ gradient presented in opposing word-nonword contexts (GIFT-kiftvs.giss-KISS), designed to bias perception toward lexical items. Phonetic perception shifted toward the direction of words, establishing a robust Ganong effect behaviorally. ERPs revealed a neural analog of lexical biasing emerging within ∼200 ms. Source analyses uncovered a distributed neural network supporting the Ganong including middle temporal gyrus (MTG), inferior parietal lobe (IPL), and middle frontal cortex. Yet, among Ganong-sensitive regions, only left MTG and IPL predicted behavioral susceptibility to lexical influence. Our findings confirm lexical status rapidly constrains sub-lexical categorical representations for speech within several hundred milliseconds but likely does so outside the purview of canonical “auditory-linguistic” brain areas.
A cantilevered liquid-nitrogen-cooled silicon mirror for the Advanced Light Source Upgrade
Authors: Cutler Grant , Cocco Daniele , DiMasi Elaine , Morton Simon , Sanchez del Rio Manuel , Padmore Howard
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a novel cantilevered liquid-nitrogen-cooled silicon mirror design for the first optic in a new soft X-ray beamline that is being developed as part of the Advanced Light Source Upgrade (ALS-U) (Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, USA). The beamline is optimized for photon energies between 400 and 1400 eV with full polarization control. Calculations indicate that, without correction, this design will achieve a Strehl ratio greater than 0.85 for the entire energy and polarization ranges of the beamline. With a correction achieved by moving the focus 7.5 mm upstream, the minimum Strehl ratio is 0.99. This design is currently the baseline plan for all new ALS-U insertion device beamlines.
Transformations of ground floors: effects on the perception of security and the occurrence of crime
Authors: Antocheviz Fabiana Bugs , Arsego Caroline , Reis Antônio Tarcísio
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effects of transformations of the levels of visual and functional permeability and the types of uses on the ground floors of buildings on the perception of security and the occurrence of residential burglary, theft in residence, pedestrian mugging, vehicle robbery, vehicle theft and theft of items inside a vehicle on selected blocks.

Design/methodology/approach

Nine blocks divided into three groups were selected in Capão da Canoa, a Brazilian city that has been undergoing morphological transformations, including the replacement of buildings with residences and shops on the ground floor, with doors and windows facing the street, by buildings with a predominance of garage doors and blind walls on the ground floors. Data were collected through the application of questionnaires and interviews.

Findings

The results reveal, for example, that perception of greater security is related to the blocks with a greater number of functional and visual connections between the ground floor interfaces of the buildings and the open public spaces. In addition, the night period records the higher number of criminal occurrences, even on blocks with higher rates of visual and functional connections between the ground floor interfaces and the public open space and higher rates of residential and commercial uses on the ground floor of the buildings.

Originality/value

It is expected that the results of this paper will allow for greater knowledge and the revision of many urban guidelines regarding the effects of the transformations of ground floor interfaces from traditional to contemporary buildings in the perception of security and the occurrence of crimes in public open spaces and in neighbouring residential units. It is further evidenced the need to recognize the ground floor interface as an element of public interest, even if it belongs to a private property. Nonetheless, further research is needed on the relationships between the quantifications of the levels of visual and functional permeability, the different types of uses on the ground floor of buildings, movement of people and crimes in open spaces and buildings in different periods of the day.
The impacts of financing constraints on the quality upgrading of China's agri-food exporters
Authors: Wang Xuejun , Huai Dinghui , Lu Ze
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the impacts of financing constraints on the quality upgrading of China's agri-food sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Our empirical study is performed using the “distance to the frontier” framework. We employ a merged sample of Chinese agri-food trading firms based on Chinese firm-level data from the National Bureau of Statistics of China and Chinese customs data. To verify robustness, we test whether the results hold when using different definitions of quality upgrading and alternative proxy variables for product quality and financing constraints. To examine the heterogeneous effects, we generate subsamples by firm location, export destination and the product sophistication of exports.

Findings

The results suggest that financing constraints have a significant negative impact on the product quality upgrading of Chinese agri-food export firms. In addition, the negative impacts of financing constraints are more severe for firms close to the quality frontier than for those far from the frontier. These results are robust to various checks. Moreover, the heterogeneous effects of financing constraints on quality upgrading are identified when the sample is split according to firm location, export destination and the sophistication of export products.

Originality/value

This paper reviews and applies some recent studies in the literature to investigate the relationship between financing constraints and the product quality upgrading of agri-food export firms in China. Overall, the results of this paper could be considered of importance for promoting the quality upgrading of export products in the China's agri-food sector.
Navigating Gaza’s conflict through women’s entrepreneurship
Authors: Althalathini Doaa , Al-Dajani Haya , Apostolopoulos Nikolaos
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the extent to which women’s entrepreneurship in conflict zones is an influential catalyst for liberalising traditionally conservative gender norms. This purpose is achieved by focussing on women entrepreneurs in Gaza and how they actively renegotiate their multiple gender roles and navigate the social order through entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts the interpretivist approach where individual in-depth interviews were conducted with 16 Palestinian women entrepreneurs operating in Gaza.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that the context of conflict itself and its impact on gender norms is a prime motivator for women to engage in entrepreneurial ventures. Some gender roles were constraining and other enabling women to initiate and sustain their ventures to contribute to their families’ well-being. In spite of the fact that the conflict context and entrepreneurship have contributed to enhancing the agency of women and their ability to navigate the conflict and its consequences, the gendered practices and assumptions are still used as guidance for legitimising women’s entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the gender and entrepreneurship literature by giving greater visibility to women entrepreneurs operating in conflict zones, which remain under researched. This paper also demonstrates how prolonged conflict instigates social and economic changes that can empower women entrepreneurs while simultaneously reinforcing gendered norms.
Hopefulness and hardship: ethical orientations of the Palestinian diaspora
Authors: Buchanan F. Robert
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Home country support from hardship nation émigrés is an under-researched topic area, particularly pertaining to Palestine which is a comparatively extreme case of oppression and apartheid. The purpose of this study is to examine the nature of this motivation, in context to well-known dynamics of diaspora behavior, to understand individual and situational variables that drive ethical decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an exploratory mixed methods field study using self-reported variables. Structural equation modeling was conducted through partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Qualitative data is presented through thematic analysis and bracketing.

Findings

A desire to live in Palestine in the future was not in itself significantly related to a favorable outlook for the country or to a desire to support the nation. Findings indicate that family support and a sense of altruism and hopefulness for the future of Palestine influenced home country nationalism in charitable investments in hospitals, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and educational institutions. Subjects’ direct portfolio investments tended to be primarily real estate and to a lesser degree in business operations.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size needs to be larger and draw from greater diversity in overseas locations, as well as respondents representing Gaza and Israel locations. Objective outcome variables would be desirous.

Social implications

Social constructivism theory is applied in understanding the ethical nature of the loyalty of these diasporans.

Originality/value

The Palestine diaspora is under-researched, particularly individual differences in motives for overseas Palestinians’ support of their ancestral homeland. Some might consider it irrational to desire to return and invest in the nation. Policymakers can benefit from empirical evidence of the type of investment and their rationales. A profile emerges in the respondents’ commitment of financial resources for personal and family real estate. Their direct investments include business ownership, as well as education and health care organizations, impacting the sustainability of this nation.
Pre-service teachers’ intention to use learning management system: an integration of UTAUT and TAM
Authors: Buabeng-Andoh Charles , Baah Charles
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to develop and test a research model to explore the factors that influence pre-service teachers’ intention to use learning management system (LMS).

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-section study was conducted. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data from participants. The total number of participants was 361 pre-service teachers. Partial least square structural equation model was used to analyze the data.

Findings

The findings of this study found that the research model explained approximately 43% of the variance in behavioral intention. Also, the findings revealed that attitude and social influence had an effect on behavioral intention to use technology, but the facilitating condition had no effect on behavior intention to use technology. Finally, performance expectancy, effort expectancy and social influence had an effect on attitude while facilitating condition had no effect on attitude.

Originality/value

In technology acceptance research, unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) and technology acceptance model (TAM) have been broadly designed and empirically tested to elucidate the determinants that impact users’ intention to operate technology in the developed world. However, research on the validation of TAM and UTAUT to explain the determinants that influence preservice teachers’ intention to use a LMS in developing countries is insufficient. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the efficacy of the integrated model of TAM and UTAUT to explain preservice teachers’ intention to use technology and explore the influential determinants that explain preservice teachers’ intention to use LMS.