bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scenario‐oriented repetitive project scheduling optimization
Authors: Hu Zhiyuan , Wang Futian , Tang Yuanjie
Published: September 2022

Research on project scheduling optimization is trending toward many‐objective optimization, in which the number of objectives exceeds three. However, existing studies usually only consider the necessary logical constraints, ignoring descriptions of practical scenarios and corresponding complex constraints, which limit the designed algorithms in problems with such scenarios and constraints. This study focuses on the many‐objective repetitive project scheduling problem considering practical scenarios with complex constraints (MRPSP‐PSCC). Various constraints are described under flexible matching/mapping between multi‐crew, multi‐mode, and multi‐section scenarios. A many‐objective project scheduling model is proposed for synchronous optimization of time, cost, quality, resource usage, and interruption time. The multiphase balance of diversity and convergence nondominated sorting genetic algorithm III (B‐NSGA‐III) with unique advantages for continuous many‐objective optimization problems is transformed for discrete many‐objective optimization. A series of unique designs is employed in the algorithm, including three‐layer coding rules, constraint handling, and local search, to improve the problem‐solving efficiency of the algorithm. The effectiveness and superiority of the model and algorithm for MRPSP‐PSCC were verified through a case study.
Autonomy and isolation experienced by patients and primary caregivers during COVID‐19 hospitalization in Barcelona (Spain)
Authors: Mestres‐Soler Olga , Leyva‐Moral Juan M. , Aguayo‐González Mariela , Zuriguel‐Pérez Esperanza , Rosales Marta , Gómez‐Ibáñez Rebeca
Published: September 2022

This study aims to describe patients' and family caregivers' hospitalization experiences during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Using qualitative exploratory descriptive methods, 13 patients admitted to the largest hospital in Barcelona (Spain) due to COVID‐19 were interviewed by telephone once discharged, as were eight primary caregivers. Data were analyzed using the content analysis method proposed by Krippendorff. Two main themes were identified: (i) Acceptance of mandatory isolation for patients and family caregivers, which refers to the verbalization of a feeling that justifies the imposed isolation and the need for the use of personal protective equipment by the health team for everyone's safety; and (ii) Limited autonomy during hospitalization for patients and family caregivers, which describes participants' perceptions of autonomy during hospitalization. Patients and caregivers experienced feelings of loneliness, which negatively affected their emotional health. In addition, they experienced reduced autonomy due to new habits and routines intended to control the pandemic for the benefit of public and global health.
A framework for hierarchical compound topologies in species interaction networks
Authors: Felix Gabriel M. , Pinheiro Rafael B. P. , Jorge Leonardo R. , Lewinsohn Thomas M.
Published: September 2022

Hierarchical compound topologies of interaction networks that are segmented into internally nested modules have received scant attention, compared to simple nested and modular topologies. This is due to the lack of a theoretical model that encompasses all relevant alternative topologies, and an effective method to differentiate compound from simple topologies. Here we present a framework to address compound topologies in ecological networks. We propose a mechanistic schema of processes that generate modular, nested and compound topologies, based on differences in availability and preferences among species. We show that, in combination, these processes produce a unique signature in the structure of compound topologies. Then, we propose a procedure to identify this signature and hence discriminate among simple and compound topologies. We test the efficiency of this procedure in a set of synthetic matrices and then apply it to an actual plant–herbivore network (Asteraceae and their flowehead feeders in Brazil). In this case, the compound topology is clearly substantiated, demonstrating that these advances are applicable to empirical ecological networks and that compound patterns decidedly belong to the array of topologies to be probed in interaction assemblages at various scales. By including extramodular structures in the analysis of compound topologies, we enhance our understanding of how community‐wide networks are organized and their responses to various drivers.
Application of CT‐MRI Fusion‐Based Three‐Dimensional Reconstruction Technique in the Anatomic Study of Posterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Feng Keyi , Wang Tianyue , Tang Jin , Hao Xiaorui , Ma Xiaojun , Qu Zhenan , Wang Weiming
Published: September 2022

Objective

During PCL reconstruction surgery, precise and personalized positioning of the graft tunnel is very important. In order to obtain patient‐specific anatomical data, we established a three‐dimensional knee joint fusion model to provide a unified imaging strategy, as well as anatomical information, for individualized and accurate posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction.

Methods

This is an exploration study. From January 2019 to January 2020, 20 healthy adults randomly were enrolled and assessed via CT and MRI imaging. A three‐dimensional fusion model of the knee joint was generated using the modified MIMIMICS and image fusion software. On the fused image, the areas of the femoral and tibial PCL footprint of both knees were measured. The anatomical center of the PCL footprint was measured at the femoral and tibial ends. The relevant bony landmarks surrounding the PCL femoral and tibial attachment were also measured. Paired t‐tests were employed for all statistical analyzes, and p < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

All 20 subjects achieved successful image fusion modeling and measurement, with an average duration of 12 h. The lengths of the LF1‐LF3 were 32.1 ± 1.8, 6.8 ± 2.5, and 23.3 ± 2.1 mm, respectively. The lengths of the LT1‐LT3 were 37.3 ± 3.3, 45.6 ± 5.3, and 6.0 ± 1.2 mm, respectively. The distances between the tibial PCL center of the left knee to the medial groove, champagne‐glass drop‐off, and the apex of the medial intercondylar were 8.4 ± 2.4, 9.2 ± 1.8, and 15.3 ± 1.4 mm, respectively, and the corresponding distances from the right knee were 8.0 ± 2.0, 9.4 ± 2.2, and 16.1 ± 1.8 mm, respectively. We observed no difference between the bilateral sides, in terms of the distance from the PCL center to the PCL attachment‐related landmark, under arthroscopic guidance. The area of the femoral and tibial PCL footprints on the left knee were 115.3 ± 33.5 and 146.6 ± 24.4 mm2, respectively, and the corresponding areas on the right knee were 121.8 ± 35.6 and 142.8 ± 19.5 mm2, respectively. There was no difference between the bilateral sides in terms of the PCL footprint areas.

Conclusion

In the fusion image, the PCL attachment center and relevant bony landmarks which can be easily identified under arthroscopy can be accurately measured. The model can also obtain personalized anatomical data of the PCL on the unaffected side of the patient, which can guide clinical PCL reconstruction.
The problem with picking: Permittance, escape and shame in problematic skin picking
Authors: Anderson Suzy , Clarke Victoria , Thomas Zoe
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Problematic skin picking (SP) is a poorly understood experience characterised by a drive to pick the skin and related psychosocial impact. In the DSM‐5, problematic SP is classified as ‘excoriation (skin picking) disorder’. The aim of this article is to present a rare qualitative perspective on the lived experience of problematic SP, prioritising participants' voices and sense‐making.

Design

An in‐depth qualitative study of individuals who self‐identified as picking their skin problematically and experienced related distress.

Methods

Seventeen UK‐based participants were recruited online and interviewed about their SP. Participants were given choice of interview modality, including instant messenger platforms, telephone, email and Skype, to maximise comfort and improve the accessibility of the study. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes offering novel insight into the phenomenology of participants' SP are highlighted and explored: (1) how cognitions and circumstances drove and permitted SP, (2) how participants ‘zoned out’ while SP and the escape or relief that this attentional experience offered and (3) participants' feelings of shame and distress in how they felt their SP may appear to others.

Conclusions

This study contributes in‐depth and novel ideas to the understanding of SP phenomenology and identifies how environmental factors, cognitions, contextual distress and shame may be considerations in therapeutic intervention. It presents the complexity of SP sense‐making and demonstrates the need for individual formulation.
Benzo[A]Pyrene and Benzo[E]Pyrene: Photoreactivity and Phototoxicity toward Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Mokrzyński Krystian , Szewczyk Grzegorz , Sarna Tadeusz
Published: September 2022

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of organic compounds derived mostly from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels and biomass. Human skin can absorb PAHs and the uptake increases with their molar mass and lipophilicity. Benzopyrene is high molecular weight PAH frequently appearing in ambient pollution. It exists in two isomeric forms: benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) and benzo[e]pyrene (BeP), which exhibit different biological activity. Although certain properties of benzopyrenes suggested photoreactivity of the compounds, no direct measurements were previously conducted to characterize their photochemical activity. In this study, quantum yield and action spectra of singlet oxygen photogeneration by BaP and BeP were measured by time‐resolved near‐infrared phosphorescence, and the ability of both compounds to photogenerate superoxide anion was assessed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin‐trapping. The measurements revealed high efficiency of benzopyrenes to photogenerate singlet oxygen and their ability to photogenerate superoxide anion. Using HaCaT cells as single‐layer skin model, we demonstrated concentration‐dependent and light‐dependent cytotoxicity of BaP and BeP. The compounds induced damage to the cell mitochondria and elevated the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species.
On ground states for the 2D Schrödinger equation with combined nonlinearities and harmonic potential
Authors: Carles Rémi , Il'yasov Yavdat
Published: September 2022

We consider the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with a harmonic potential in the presence of two combined energy‐subcritical power nonlinearities. We assume that the larger power is defocusing, and the smaller power is focusing. Such a framework includes physical models, and ensures that finite energy solutions are global in time. We address the questions of the existence and the orbital stability of the set of standing waves. Given the mathematical features of the equation (external potential and inhomogeneous nonlinearity), the set of parameters for which standing waves exist in unclear. In the two‐dimensional case, we adapt the method of fundamental frequency solutions, introduced by the second author in the higher‐dimensional case without potential. This makes it possible to describe accurately the set of fundamental frequency standing waves and ground states, and to prove its orbital stability.
Oral manifestations of eleven individuals with Noonan syndrome. A case series
Authors: Vavetsi Konstantina , Panagopoulou Olga , Fryssira Ηelen , Bobetsis Spyridon A. , Emmanouil Dimitris , Madianos Phoebus N. , Bobetsis Yiorgos A.
Published: September 2022

Aims

Noonan syndrome (NS) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous condition characterized by distinctive facial features, short stature, and congenital heart defects. The oral manifestations have not been sufficiently described. In an attempt to enrich our understanding regarding the oral manifestations, the aim of the current study was to present the clinical, radiographic, and microbiological findings of eleven subjects with NS syndrome.

Methods and Results

A complete intraoral clinical evaluation, a radiographic analysis using panoramic and cephalometric x‐rays, and a supra‐ and sub‐gingival microbiological profiling of 20 periodontal and cariogenic microbiota using the checkerboard DNA‐DNA hybridization technique were performed in a series of 11 NS individuals. Compared to previous reports very few dental findings were present. Gingivitis and carious lesions were present in all subjects and could be related to poor oral hygiene. High‐arched palate and malocclusions such as crossbite, open‐bite, and deep‐bite were very common findings but without a specific pattern. Two findings that have not been reported before included the different shapes of the condyles and the irregular shape of the sella turcica.

Conclusion

Due to the elevated prevalence of gingivitis, caries, and malocclusion, a multidisciplinary approach including dental follow‐ups should be the standard care in NS patients.
Connection assist devices for peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Chan Anthony T. P. , Tang Sydney C. W.
Published: September 2022

Patients with kidney failure who require kidney replacement therapy (KRT) have been increasing globally. Home‐based therapies, such as peritoneal dialysis (PD), allow patients to undergo KRT in the home environment, alleviating treatment costs, patient transport, and hospital admission. Peritoneal dialysis‐related peritonitis is still the most frequent complication of PD and is often related to technique failure, which can result in PD failure, transfer to hemodialysis, or mortality. The cause of technique failure is multifactorial, and a portion of technique failure is due to underlying physical or cognitive disabilities. There are several connection devices that have been developed to reduce CAPD‐related peritonitis. These connection devices are reviewed in this article.
West Nile virus transfusion‐transmission risk in Australia associated with a seasonal outbreak in the United States
Authors: Kiely Philip , Seed Clive R. , Gambhir Manoj , Cheng Allen C. , McQuilten Zoe K. , Wood Erica M.
Published: September 2022

Background

West Nile virus (WNV) is a potentially transfusion‐transmissible virus endemic in the US. The aim of this study was to estimate the monthly WNV transfusion transmission (TT) risk in Australia associated with donors returning from the US in 2018 and consider the implications for mitigation strategies.

Study Design and Methods

We used a probabilistic risk model to estimate the monthly WNV TT risks for each outbreak state/district in the US for the 2018 transmission season and the cumulative monthly risk for all US states/districts.

Results

The highest monthly cumulative transfusion risk in Australia occurred in August 2018 when 746 West Nile neuroinvasive disease cases were reported in the US and the estimated mean WNV TT risk in Australia was 1 in 1.0 × 108 donations (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.6 × 108–7.0 × 107). The highest risk during August was associated with California, with a mean risk of 1 in 4.1 × 108 donations (95% CI: 2.9 × 108–6.6 × 108), representing 24% of the total risk in Australia. The cumulative TT risk in Australia for the other 11 months varied from 1 in 1.5 × 108 donations (95% CI: 2.3 × 108–1.0 × 108) in September to 1 in 3.9 × 1010 donations (95% CI: 6.1 × 1010–2.7 × 1010) in February.

Discussion

Our modeling indicates that the WNV TT risk in Australia associated with seasonal outbreaks in the US is extremely small and may not warrant donation restrictions for donors returning from the US.
International Society of Blood Transfusion Working Party on Red Cell Immunogenetics and Blood Group Terminology Report of Basel and three virtual business meetings: Update on blood group systems
Authors: Gassner Christoph , Castilho Lilian , Chen Qing , Clausen Frederik Banch , Denomme Gregory A. , Flegel Willy A. , Gleadall Nick , Hellberg Åsa , Ji Yanli , Keller Margaret A. , Lane William J. , Ligthart Peter , Lomas‐Francis Christine , Nogues Nuria , Olsson Martin L. , Peyrard Thierry , Storry Jill R. , Tani Yoshihiko , Thornton Nicole , van der Schoot Ellen , Veldhuisen Barbera , Wagner Franz , Weinstock Christof , Wendel Silvano , Westhoff Connie , Yahalom Vered , Hyland Catherine A.
Published: September 2022

Background and Objectives

Under the ISBT, the Working Party (WP) for Red Cell Immunogenetics and Blood Group Terminology is charged with ratifying blood group systems, antigens and alleles. This report presents the outcomes from four WP business meetings, one located in Basel in 2019 and three held as virtual meetings during the COVID‐19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021.

Materials and Methods

As in previous meetings, matters pertaining to blood group antigen nomenclature were discussed. New blood group systems and antigens were approved and named according to the serologic, genetic, biochemical and cell biological evidence presented.

Results

Seven new blood group systems, KANNO (defined numerically as ISBT 037), SID (038), CTL2 (039), PEL (040), MAM (041), EMM (042) and ABCC1 (043) were ratified. Two (039 and 043) were de novo discoveries, and the remainder comprised reported antigens where the causal genes were previously unknown. A further 15 blood group antigens were added to the existing blood group systems: MNS (002), RH (004), LU (005), DI (010), SC (013), GE (020), KN (022), JMH (026) and RHAG (030).

Conclusion

The ISBT now recognizes 378 antigens, of which 345 are clustered within 43 blood group systems while 33 still have an unknown genetic basis. The ongoing discovery of new blood group systems and antigens underscores the diverse and complex biology of the red cell membrane. The WP continues to update the blood group antigen tables and the allele nomenclature tables. These can be found on the ISBT website (http://www.isbtweb.org/working-parties/red-cell-immunogenetics-and-blood-group-terminology/).
Co‐activation of GPCRs facilitate GIRK‐dependent current
Authors: Condon Alec F. , Asad Naeem , Dore Timothy M. , Williams John T.
Published: September 2022

The activity of dopamine neurons is dependent on both intrinsic properties and afferent projections. One potent form of inhibition is mediated by the activation of two inhibitory G protein‐coupled receptors, D2 and GABAB receptors. Each of these receptors activates G protein‐coupled inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels. Recordings in brain slices have shown that co‐activation using saturating concentrations of agonists results in occlusion of the GIRK current. The present study examined the interaction between D2 and GABAB receptors using transient applications of sub‐saturating concentrations of agonists where the co‐application of one agonist resulted in both facilitation and inhibition (desensitization) of the other. The heterologous facilitation was modelled based on the known cooperative interaction between the G protein βγ subunits and GIRK channels. The results indicate that a low tonic level of G βγ results in facilitation of GIRK current and a high level of G βγ results in occlusion. The kinetics of the current induced by transient receptor activation is prolonged in each case. The results suggest that the cooperative interaction between G βγ subunits and GIRK channels determines both the amplitude and kinetics of GPCR‐dependent current.

image

Key points

Inhibitory D2 and GABAB receptors modulate dopamine neuron activity through shared G protein‐coupled inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels.

This study reports robust bidirectional interactions between these two converging receptor pathways.

Coincident activation of D2 and GABAB receptors leads to facilitation of GIRK channel currents, augmenting both amplitude and prolonging the duration of phasic responses.

Activation of either D2 or GABAB receptors also acutely desensitized the GIRK channel current induced by D2 receptor activation that rapidly recovers following termination of desensitizing stimulus.

Results demonstrate that the activity of either G protein‐coupled receptor system must be considered in the context of other G protein‐coupled receptors.
Stall Margin Improvement in a Transonic Compressor With a Casing Treatment: Flow Mechanism
Authors: Hah Chunill
Published: September 2022

A compressor casing treatment with circumferential casing grooves (CCGs) is studied in detail. The primary objective of the current paper is to unearth the main driving fluid mechanism that changes the stall margin in a transonic compressor with CCGs. Large eddy simulation (LES) is applied to calculate the transonic compressor flow fields with and without CCGs. The present investigation shows that CCGs reduce the mass flow through the tip gap by about 16% near the stall condition. Calculated flow fields show that most of this reduction of tip leakage flow occurs near the CCGs. Reinjected flow from the CCGs pushes the tip leakage flow radially inward below the casing and changes how the tip leakage flow collides with the incoming main passage flow. However, a detailed examination of the calculated flow in the tip region shows that the reinjected flow does not contribute to the reduction of the overall blockage generation. The primary driver for reducing blockage generation with CCGs is the reduction of overall mass flowrate through the tip gap. In the present investigation, measurements show a very small decrease in efficiency with CCGs at the design flow condition, although the difference in efficiency is within the measurement uncertainty. Results from the LES simulation at the design condition with CCGs show that the tip leakage vortex (TLV) is pulled toward the blade suction side and double leakage flow is eliminated. The result is that the simulated efficiencies with and without CCGs are almost the same.
Translation of training to practice – ultrasound guided nerve block for analgesia in patients with hip fracture
Authors: Gan Szemein , Tan Xiang Yin , Kaliannan Sathya , Chia Wen Jie Dennis , Chan Kim Poh , Pek Jen Heng
Published: September 2022

Aims: Ultrasound guided nerve blocks have been shown to be an effective analgesia option for patients with hip fracture. An education program was developed to train Emergency Department doctors and it received positive feedback from partici-pants who demonstrated competency after the training. We aimed to evaluate the education program at the behavioral level of the Kirkpatrick Model by determining the translation of training to practice of ultrasound guided nerve blocks in patients with a hip fracture at the Emergency Department. Materials and methods: A retrospective review of medical records was carried out from 18 August 2018 to 31 December 2020. Data on patient demographics, type of hip fracture, pain score, analgesia pro-vided and complications were collected using a standardized form and analyzed. Results: Among 634 patients, their median age was 79 years old (Interquartile range (IQR): 70 to 85) and 416 (65.6%) were female. The median pain score was 6 (IQR: 5 to 8) and analgesia was provided for 561 (88.5%) patients. Analgesia was administered most frequently via the intravenous route (n=407, 72.5%) and tramadol (n=293, 52.2%) was most commonly used. Ultrasound guided nerve block was performed in 26 (4.7%) patients – all were performed successfully without complications. The utilization increased from 1.0% before to 4.7% after the conduct of the training workshops (p=0.16). Conclusion: A significant gap still exists in the translation of training to practice. Barriers must be identified and overcome so that ultimately, the education program can bring about an organizational impact to benefit patients and improve their outcomes.
Implementation of continuously steerable beam patterns for a uniform circular projector array
Authors: Wang Qiumu , Lan Yu , Fan Jun
Published: September 2022

A continuously steerable super-cardioid beam pattern (SCBP) has advantages such as controllable direction, narrower beam width, and higher gain. It is generally implemented with a uniform circular array (UCA). Here, an implementation method of continuously steerable SCBPs is proposed for a projector array. The synthesis and the implementation of the continuously steerable SCBP are studied and analyzed based on a UCA model composed of omnidirectional sources. An improved version of the common method is proposed. It requires fewer array elements and the massive power amplifiers matched to each array element, which reduces the cost and the installation space. Subsequently, a continuously steerable SCBP is implemented with a uniform circular projector array (UCPA). This system is composed of single-sided radiation flextensional transducers and is studied and analyzed with a finite element method, which verified that the proposed method is suitable for the underwater acoustic projector array. Finally, UCPA prototypes were fabricated. The tests demonstrated that the proposed implementation method is a flexible way for the application of the continuously steerable SCBP in the low-frequency emission field.
Feasibility of Using Q-Sort to Map Conditional Participation in Physical Activity in Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Arnell Susann , Jerlinder Kajsa , Lundqvist Lars-Olov
Published: September 2022

Background: Participation in physical activity among adolescents with autism is often conditional. However, there is a lack of methods for identifying these specific conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop and investigate the feasibility of a Q-sort tool to map individual-specific conditions for participation in physical activity among adolescents with autism and to identify different viewpoints regarding conditions for such participation. Method: An exploratory mixed-methods design was employed to investigate the feasibility of using Q methodology and the Q-sort procedure to identify what individual-specific conditions are important for participation in physical activity for adolescents with autism. Results: The adolescents ranked the statements with varying levels of ease. Two viewpoints were identified: Autonomous participation without surprises and Enjoyment of activity in a safe social context. Conclusion: Q-sort is a feasible method for mapping conditions for participation, which can guide the development of tailored physical activity interventions.
Assessing the Role of Cold-Shock Protein C: a Novel Regulator of Acinetobacter baumannii Biofilm Formation and Virulence
Authors: Tomlinson Brooke R. , Denham Grant A. , Torres Nathanial J. , Brzozowski Robert S. , Allen Jessie L. , Jackson Jessica K. , Eswara Prahathees J. , Shaw Lindsey N.
Published: September 2022

Acinetobacter baumannii
is a formidable opportunistic pathogen that is notoriously difficult to eradicate from hospital settings. This resilience is often attributed to a proclivity for biofilm formation, which facilitates a higher tolerance toward external stress, desiccation, and antimicrobials.
Intestinal Norovirus Binding Patterns in Nonsecretor Individuals
Authors: Tarris Georges , Estienney Marie , Daval-Frérot Philippe , Lariotte Anne-Cécile , Aubignat Damien , Sé Karine , Michiels Christophe , Martin Laurent , de Rougemont Alexis , Belliot Gaël
Published: September 2022

Human norovirus (HuNoV) is the main etiological agent of viral gastroenteritis in all age classes. HuNoV infection affects mainly secretor individuals where ABO(H) and Lewis histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs) are present in the small intestine.
Heparin Protects Human Neural Progenitor Cells from Zika Virus-Induced Cell Death While Preserving Their Differentiation into Mature Neuroglial Cells
Authors: Pagani Isabel , Ottoboni Linda , Podini Paola , Ghezzi Silvia , Brambilla Elena , Bezukladova Svetlana , Corti Davide , Bianchi Marco Emilio , Capobianchi Maria Rosaria , Poli Guido , Panina-Bordignon Paola , Yates Edwin A. , Martino Gianvito , Vicenzi Elisa
Published: September 2022

ZIKV is a neurotropic virus that invades neural progenitor cells (NPCs), causing inhibition of their proliferation and maturation into neurons and glial cells. We have shown previously that heparin, an anticoagulant also used widely during pregnancy, prevents ZIKV-induced cell death with negligible inhibition of virus replication.
Systematic Analysis of Copy Number Variations in the Pathogenic Yeast Candida parapsilosis Identifies a Gene Amplification in
RTA3
That is Associated with Drug Resistance
Authors: Bergin Sean A. , Zhao Fang , Ryan Adam P. , Müller Carolin A. , Nieduszynski Conrad A. , Zhai Bing , Rolling Thierry , Hohl Tobias M. , Morio Florent , Scully Jillian , Wolfe Kenneth H. , Butler Geraldine
Published: September 2022

Copy number variations (CNVs) are an important source of genomic diversity that have been associated with drug resistance. We identify two unusual CNVs in the human fungal pathogen
Candida parapsilosis
.
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Bacteroides uniformis Bacteriophages
Authors: Bean Elsa M. , Morella Norma M. , Dey Neelendu
Published: September 2022

Here, we describe the isolation and genomic annotation of two novel siphovirus species of bacteriophages that infect
Bacteroides uniformis
: Bacteroides phage EMB1 and Bacteroides phage EMB2. EMB1 has a 34,204-bp genome with 48 coding sequences, and EMB2 has a 34,008-bp genome with 47 coding sequences.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Aquiluna
sp. Strain KACHI24, Isolated from River Surface Water
Authors: Ogata Yusuke , Watanabe Keiji , Takemine Shusuke , Kaida Kaoru , Tanokura Maki , Suda Wataru
Published: September 2022

The globally distributed bacterioplankton of the genus
Aquiluna
belong to the tribe Luna1-A1. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of
Aquiluna
sp. strain KACHI24, which was isolated from river surface water in Japan.
The Evolutionary Kaleidoscope of Rhodopsins
Authors: Bulzu Paul-Adrian , Kavagutti Vinicius S. , Andrei Adrian-Stefan , Ghai Rohit
Published: September 2022

The rhodopsin scaffold is remarkably versatile and widespread, coupling light availability to energy production and other light-dependent cellular responses with minor alterations to critical residues. We described an unprecedented spectrum of substitutions at one of the most conserved amino acids in the rhodopsin fold, Arg82.
Dynamics of the Gut Microbiome in
Shigella
-Infected Children during the First Two Years of Life
Authors: Ndungo Esther , Holm Johanna B. , Gama Syze , Buchwald Andrea G. , Tennant Sharon M. , Laufer Miriam K. , Pasetti Marcela F. , Rasko David A.
Published: September 2022

Shigella
causes more than 180 million cases of diarrhea globally, mostly in children living in poor regions. Infection can lead to severe health impairments that reduce quality of life.
Study of Wetland Soils of the Salar de Atacama with Different Azonal Vegetative Formations Reveals Changes in the Microbiota Associated with Hygrophile Plant Type on the Soil Surface
Authors: Ramos-Tapia Ignacio , Nuñez Reynaldo , Salinas Carlos , Salinas Pamela , Soto Jorge , Paneque Manuel
Published: September 2022

The study of the composition and diversity of the wetland soil microbiota associated with hygrophilous plants in a desert ecosystem of the high Puna in northern Chile makes it an ideal approach to search for novel extremophilic microorganisms with unique properties. These microorganisms are adapted to survive in ecological niches, such as those with high UV irradiation, extreme drought, and high salt concentration; they can be applied in various fields, such as biotechnology and astrobiology, and industries, including the pharmaceutical, food, agricultural, biofuel, cosmetic, and textile industries.
The Repertoire of Solute-Binding Proteins of Model Bacteria Reveals Large Differences in Number, Type, and Ligand Range
Authors: Ortega Álvaro , Matilla Miguel A. , Krell Tino
Published: September 2022

SBPs are essential components for many transporters, but multiple pieces of more recent evidence indicate that the SBP-mediated stimulation of different transmembrane receptors is a general and widespread signal transduction mechanism in bacteria. The double function of SBPs in coordinating transport with signal transduction remains to a large degree unexplored and represents a major research need.
Association of mean arterial pressure with 5-year risk of incident diabetes in Chinese adults：a secondary population-based cohort study
Authors: Wu Yang , Hu Haofei , Cai Jinlin , Chen Runtian , Zuo Xin , Cheng Heng , Yan Dewen
Published: September 2022

Objective

Hypertension predicts the development of diabetes. However, there are still lacking high-quality studies on the correlation between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and incident diabetes. We aimed to explore the relationship between MAP and diabetes in Chinese adults.

Design

This is a secondary retrospective cohort study and the data were downloaded from the ‘DATADRYAD’ database (www.Datadryad.org).

Participants

The study included 210 418 adults without diabetes at baseline between 2010 and 2016 across 32 sites and 11 cities in China.

Setting

The target-independent and dependent variables were MAP measured at baseline and diabetes occurred during follow-up. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to explore the relationship between MAP and diabetes.

Primary outcome measures

The outcome was incident diabetes, which was defined as fasting blood glucose ≥7.00 mmol/L and/or self-reported diabetes during follow-up. Patients were censored either at the time of the diagnosis or at the last visit, whichever comes first.

Results

3927 participants developed diabetes during a 5-year follow-up. After adjusting covariates, MAP positively correlated with diabetes (HR=1.008, 95% CI 1.005 to 1.011, p<0.001), and the absolute risk difference was 0.02%. E-value analysis and multiple imputations were used to explore the robustness of the results. The relationship between MAP and diabetes was also non-linear, and the inflection point of MAP was 100.333 mm Hg. Subgroup analysis revealed a stronger association between MAP and diabetes in people with age (≥30,<50 years old), fasting plasma glucose <6.1 mmol/L and drinking. Additionally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed the predictive performance of MAP for diabetes was similar to systolic blood pressure (SBP) (area under the curve (AUC)=0.694 with MAP vs AUC=0.698 with SBP).

Conclusions

MAP is an independent predictor for a 5-year risk of incident diabetes among Chinese adults. The relationship between MAP and diabetes is also non-linear. When MAP is below 100.333 mm Hg, MAP is closely positively related to diabetes.
How did communities in North West England respond to the COVID-19 lockdown? Findings from a diary study
Authors: Ward Fiona , Halliday Emma , Holt Vivien , Khan Koser , Sadler Gill , Wheeler Paula , Goldthorpe Joanna
Published: September 2022

Objectives

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK government and public health leaders advocated for community level responses to support vulnerable people. This activity could be planned and co-ordinated, however much was informal and developed organically. The effects on the individuals who were involved in providing and receiving informal support and implications for their communities have not been widely explored. The aim of this study was therefore to document and explore the nature, potential effects and longevity of community responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Participants

We asked 15 individuals in North West England to keep a diary during the first UK COVID-19 lockdown. Over 8 weeks, diaries were completed and supported with weekly calls with researchers. A community capacity building framework was used to explore reported community responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

Diarists described community characteristics that enabled and hindered helpful responses in the lockdown context. Diarists frequently described informal approaches with residents acting alone or with near neighbours, although there were examples of community networks and residents recommencing formal volunteering activities. Diarists reported communities providing practical help and social support to vulnerable people. Participants perceived a greater sense of community, increased contact between residents and new networks during the period covered.

Conclusion

The diaries provided valuable insights and the framework was a useful tool to explore the COVID-19 lockdown context. The findings indicate that organic capacity building took place, primarily via individual agency, highlighting the risk of communities being ‘left behind’ if there were not individuals or community networks available with resources to plug gaps in organisational support. Recommendations to sustain helpful responses to the pandemic include further consideration of ongoing community mobilisation, empowerment and community control within the capacity building framework.
Study protocol to determine the effects of highly absorbable oral curcumin on the indicators of cognitive functioning: a double-blind randomised controlled trial
Authors: Komiyama Maki , Ozaki Yuka , Wada Hiromichi , Yamakage Hajime , Satoh-Asahara Noriko , Kishimoto Atsuhiro , Katsuura Yasuhiro , Imaizumi Atsushi , Hashimoto Tadashi , Sunagawa Yoichi , Morimoto Tatsuya , Hasegawa Koji
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) refers to a state in which cognitive functions, such as memory, have diminished but daily activities are largely unhampered. MCI is often overlooked but carries the risk of leading to development of dementia later. Curcumin is the main component of the natural herbal medicine turmeric. Curcumin is widely used as a health food and is an antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory and anti-amyloid actions. The current trial was designed to determine the effects of curcumin on indicators of cognitive functioning.

Methods and analysis

The current trial will be a single-centre randomised placebo-controlled double-blind parallel group trial. The participants will be 60 members of the general public with potential MCI, based on dementia screening using the Japanese version of the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE-J). The investigational health food used in this trial will be a recently developed preparation for highly absorbable oral curcumin. This trial will determine the effects of the highly absorbable oral curcumin (brand name: curcuRouge) on the indicators of cognitive functioning, including the scores obtained with the MMSE-J, which is an interview-based measure of cognitive functioning, and the blood biomarkers that have been reported to be associated with dementia.

Ethics and dissemination

Informed written consent will be obtained from all the participants. The Ethical Review Board of the National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center approved the study protocol.

Trial registration number

University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN000042471).
Design, development and validation of Food Frequency Questionnaires for the diabetic population: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fernández-Cao José C , Aparicio Estefania
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The Food Frequency Questionnaire is one of the most widely used tools for estimating nutritional intake in epidemiological studies. No study has been systematically performed to comprehensively explore Food Frequency Questionnaires designed, developed and validated specifically for the diabetic population (FFQs-DDV-DiaP). Therefore, a systematic review and meta-analysis will be carried out in order to identify and describe FFQs-DDV-DiaP; to examine their design, development, validity and reproducibility; as well as to estimate the overall degree of correlation and agreement; and to evaluate the factors that affect them.

Methods and analysis

A systematic literature review will be performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science to find potentially relevant studies. Original studies related to the design, development, as well as the assessment of the validity and reproducibility of FFQs-DDV-DiaP; reported in English or Romance languages will be selected. Independent reviewers will select studies, extract relevant data and assess FFQs-DDV-DiaP quality. Data will be pooled using the generic inverse-variance method with random-effects models and expressed as correlation coefficients or mean differences with 95% CIs to examine the global validity and reproducibility of FFQs-DDV-DiaP. Heterogeneity will be evaluated by the Cochran Q-statistic and quantified by the I2 statistic. Stratified analyses and random-effects meta-regressions will be performed to explore heterogeneity and whether any covariate influences the effect sizes. Finally, publication bias will be assessed through the Begg’s and Egger’s tests.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review and meta-analysis will not use confidential personal data. Therefore, the requirement of ethical approval or informed consent is not necessary. The results of this review will be disseminated only in peer-reviewed publications or at relevant scientific conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021268575.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—the arts as a vehicle for knowledge translation and exchange (KTE) in public health during a pandemic: a realist-informed developmental evaluation research protocol
Authors: Bergeron Dave A , Rey Lynda , Murillo Salazar Fernando , Michaud Anne Marie , Ccaniahuire Laura Felipe
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 crisis has led to the adoption of strict and coercive preventive measures. The implementation of these measures has generated negative impacts for many communities. The situation is especially worrisome for Indigenous communities in Peru. Therefore, it is necessary to recognise the contribution of the experiential knowledge of Indigenous communities and to implement innovative approaches. The use of art can be a promising avenue for working in partnership with Indigenous communities.

The goal of this research is to (1) develop an intervention promoting barrier measures and vaccination to limit the transmission of COVID-19 among Indigenous communities using an arts-based and community-based knowledge translation and exchange (ACKTE) model; and (2) understand the contextual elements and mechanisms associated with the process of developing a preventive intervention using the ACKTE model.

Methodology and analysis

This research will take place in Indigenous communities in Peru and will be based on a developmental evaluation guided by the principles of realist evaluation. Members of two Indigenous communities, local authorities, health professionals and artists will participate in the intervention development process as well as in the developmental evaluation. For data collection, we will conduct modified talking circles and semistructured individual interviews with stakeholders as well as an analysis of documents and artistic works produced.

Ethics and dissemination of results

This research received the approval of theUniversité du Québec à Rimouski’s research ethics board. In addition to scientific articles, the results of this research will be disseminated through videos and during an artistic performance.
Association between physical activity and musculoskeletal pain: an analysis of international data from the ASAP survey
Authors: Rhim Hye Chang , Tenforde Adam , Mohr Lisa , Hollander Karsten , Vogt Lutz , Groneberg David A , Wilke Jan
Published: September 2022

Objective

To explore the association of physical activity (PA) with musculoskeletal pain (MSK pain).

Design

Cross-sectional study

Setting

14 countries (Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Chile, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland and the USA).

Participants

Individuals aged 18 or older.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

PA volumes were assessed with an adapted version of the Nordic Physical Activity Questionnaire-short. Prevalence of MSK pain was captured by means of a 20-item checklist of body locations. Based on the WHO recommendation on PA, participants were classified as non-compliers (0–150 min/week), compliers (150–300 min/week), double compliers (300–450 min/week), triple compliers (450–600 min/week), quadruple compliers (600–750 min/week), quintuple compliers (750–900 min/week) and top compliers (more than 900 min/week). Multivariate logistic regression was used to obtain adjusted ORs of the association between PA and MSK pain for each body location, correcting for age, sex, employment status and depression risk.

Results

A total of 13 741 participants completed the survey. Compared with non-compliers, compliers had smaller odds of MSK pain in one location (thoracic pain, OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.93). Double compliance was associated with reduced pain occurrence in six locations (elbow, OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.98; forearm, OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.99; wrist, OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.98; hand, OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.79; fingers, OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.99; abdomen, OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.91). Triple to top compliance was also linked with lower odds of MSK pain (five locations in triple compliance, three in quadruple compliance, two in quintuple compliance, three in top compliance), but, at the same time, presented increased odds of MSK pain in some of the other locations.

Conclusion

A dose of 300–450 min WHO-equivalent PA/week was associated with lower odds of MSK pain in six body locations. On the other hand, excessive doses of PA were associated with higher odds of pain in certain body locations.
Explaining regional variations in colon cancer survival in Ontario, Canada: a population-based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Webber Colleen , Brundage Michael , Hanna Timothy P , Booth Christopher M , Kennedy Erin , Kong Weidong , Peng Yingwei , Whitehead Marlo , Groome Patti A
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Regional variation in cancer survival is an important health system performance measurement. We evaluated if regional variation in colon cancer survival may be driven by differences in the patient population, their health and healthcare utilisation, and/or cancer care delivery.

Design

Population-based retrospective cohort study using routinely collected linked health administrative data.

Setting

Ontario, Canada.

Participants

Patients with colon cancer diagnosed between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2012.

Outcome

Cancer-specific survival was compared across the province’s 14 health regions. Using accelerated failure time models, we assessed whether regional survival variations were mediated through differences in case mix, including age, sex, comorbidities, stage at diagnosis and colon subsite, potential marginalisation and/or prediagnosis healthcare.

Results

The study population included 16 895 patients with colon cancer. There was statistically significant regional variation in cancer-specific survival. Three regions had cancer-specific survival that was between 30% (95% CI 1.03 to 1.65) and 39% (95% CI 1.13 to 1.71) longer and one region had cancer-specific survival that was 26% shorter (95% CI 0.58 to 0.93) than the reference region. For three of these regions, case mix explained between 26% and 56% of the survival variation. Further adjustment for rurality explained 22% of the remaining survival variation in one region. Adjustment for continuity of primary care and the diagnostic interval length explained 10% and 11% of the remaining survival variation in two other regions. Socioeconomic marginalisation, recent immigration and colonoscopy history did not explain colon cancer survival variation.

Conclusions

Case mix accounted for much of the regional variation in colon cancer survival, indicating that efforts to monitor the quality of cancer care through survival metrics should consider case mix when reporting regional survival differences. Future work should repeat this approach in other settings and other cancer sites considering a broad range of potential mediators.