bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of renaming NAFLD to MAFLD in an Australian regional cohort: Results from a prospective population‐based study
Authors: Kemp William , Clayton‐Chubb Daniel , Majeed Ammar , Glenister Kristen M , Magliano Dianna J , Lubel John , Bourke Lisa , Simmons David , Roberts Stuart K
Published: October 2021

Background and Aims

Clinical and public health implications of the recent redefining of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) remain unclear. We sought to determine the prevalence and compare MAFLD with NAFLD in a well‐defined cohort.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in regional Victoria with participants from randomly selected households. Demographic and health‐related clinical and laboratory data were obtained. Fatty liver was defined as a fatty liver index ≥ 60 with MAFLD defined according to recent international expert consensus.

Results

A total of 722 participants were included. Mean age was 59.3 ± 16 years, and 55.3% were women with a median body mass index of 27.8 kg/m2. Most (75.2%) participants were overweight or obese. MAFLD was present in 341 participants giving an unadjusted prevalence of 47.2% compared with a NAFLD prevalence of 38.7%. Fifty‐nine (17.5%) participants met the criteria of MAFLD but not NAFLD. The increased prevalence of MAFLD in this cohort was primarily driven by dual etiology of fatty liver. All participants classified as NAFLD met the new definition of MAFLD. Compared with NAFLD subjects, participants with MAFLD had higher ALT (26.0 [14.0] U/L vs 30.0 [23] U/L, P = 0.024), but there were no differences in non‐invasive markers for steatosis or fibrosis.

Conclusion

Metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease is a highly prevalent condition within this large community cohort. Application of the MAFLD definition increased prevalence of fatty liver disease by including people with dual etiologies of liver disease.
International Neuroendocrine Federation: Year 2020 in Review
Authors: Prevot Vincent
Published: October 2021

In this “Year 2020 in Review”, we highlight a few major achievements selected from the work of 10 member societies of the International Neuroendocrine Federation, encompassing national, regional and thematic societies from around 30 countries. Despite the Covid‐19 pandemic, many remarkable breakthroughs have come to light in 2020, testifying to the dedication of our researchers and providing a ray of optimism as we head towards the 10th International Congress of Neuroendocrinology (ICN) to be held in Glasgow in August 2022.
Health impacts of climate change on gender diverse populations: A scoping review
Authors: Simmonds Katherine E. , Jenkins Julie , White Bradley , Nicholas Patrice K. , Bell Jessica
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To determine what is known about climate change health effects for gender diverse (GD) populations, and identify gaps in research, practice, education, and policy.

Design/Methods

A scoping review was conducted.

Findings

Twenty‐seven information sources met inclusion criteria. Natural disasters and inadequate disaster relief responses were identified as an overarching health threat for GD populations. Within this theme, four sub‐themes emerged. No other climate‐related health impacts for GD populations were mentioned in the sources reviewed.

Conclusions

There are major gaps in knowledge about health implications of climate change for GD populations. Gender‐sensitive data must be collected in order to better understand these threats and detect disparities. Currently most practice and policy recommendations focus on disaster relief. More research on the broad effects of climate change on GD populations is urgently needed to inform practice and policy.

Clinical relevance

Climate change amplifies existing risks of adverse health outcomes. Because of discrimination, stigma, and violence, gender diverse individuals are particularly vulnerable.
Using blend wavelengths in order to improve the safety and efficacy of laser hair removal
Authors: Noyman Yehonatan , Levi Assi , Reiter Ofer , Lapidoth Moshe
Published: October 2021

Background

As the pursuit for a safe and effective device for laser hair removal continues, the use of simultaneous multiple wavelengths in a single device requires further exploration.

Aim

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel multi‐wavelength laser device for hair removal.

Patients and methods

This retrospective cohort study included adult participants of both sexes with Fitzpatrick skin types of III and IV. Hairy sites were treated by a multiple wavelength (810nm, 940nm, and 1064nm) laser device (Primelase, Coccoon medical, Barcelona, Spain). Laser parameters included: fluence of 14–20 J/cm2, pulse duration of 7–30 ms, and spot size of 20*9 mm2. Participants underwent up to 7 treatments at 6–8 weeks intervals and were followed for 6 months after the last treatment session. "Before" and "after" clinical photographs were acquired and were used to evaluate efficacy by 2 independent dermatologists. They employed the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS; scale of 0 [no improvement] to 4 [excellent improvement; Over 75% hair reduction]). Participants’ satisfaction was rated on a scale of 1 (not satisfied) to 5 (very satisfied). Pain perception and adverse events were recorded as well.

Results

Eighteen participants (6 men, 12 women) were included with a total of 49 treatment sites. Mean hair reduction was 3.6 out of 4 in the GAIS. Participants’ satisfaction rate was high (mean 4.5). Beside mild transient discomfort during the procedure, no adverse events were recorded.

Conclusion

The use of a multiple wavelengths’ laser device is safe and effective for hair removal.
Amino acid complex (AAComplex) benefits in cosmetic products: In vitro and in vivo clinical studies
Authors: Diaz Isabel , Namkoong Jin , Wu Joanna Qiang , Giancola Giorgiana
Published: October 2021

Background

Amino acids are major components of skin's natural moisturizing factors and play a role in regulating skin hydration and skin pH.

Objective

This research examines a proprietary amino acid complex technology (AAComplex) designed to help reduce skin irritation and repair skin damage.

Methods

In‐ vitro Scratch Assay

HaCaT cells are scratched, and the wounds are imaged at different time points until the closure of the scratch wound is detected.

In‐vitro 3D Reconstructed Human Tissue Evaluation

The concentration of heat shock protein 27 (HSP‐27) extracted from 3D reconstructed human skin equivalent tissues and IL‐1a released to the media was determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

In Vivo Clinical Study

37 subjects were enrolled in a split‐face study design. On test days 1, 2, 4, and 8, subjects visited the test facility to have their face assessed by facial swabbing and bio‐instrumentation measurements.

Results

In‐ vitro Scratch Assay

The AAComplex demonstrated a strong cell renewal benefit in the HaCaT (human) cells scratch assay.

In Vitro 3D Reconstructed Human Tissue Evaluation

AAComplex demonstrated a significant skin repair benefit by quantifying Heat Shock Protein, HSP‐27. Induced skin irritation was significantly reduced by quantifying interleukin‐1 alpha biomarker, IL‐1a.

In Vivo Clinical Study

The test products delivered skin benefits by reducing visual redness and skin irritation while increasing moisturization.

Conclusion

The in vitro and in vivo clinical studies demonstrated that the AAComplex technology formulated in the commercially available Skin Recovery System effectively reduced skin irritation and redness as well as accelerating the skin repair process.
Myths and media in oral collagen supplementation for the skin, nails, and hair: A review
Authors: Rustad Andrea M. , Nickles Melissa A. , McKenney Jenna E. , Bilimoria Sara N. , Lio Peter A.
Published: October 2021

Background

As a key component of the hair, skin, and nails, there is strong consumer interest in the dermatologic efficacy of oral collagen supplementation. Oral supplementation with collagen peptides has increased in popularity in recent years.

Aims

There are relatively few studies investigating the dermatologic effects of ingested collagen peptides, many of which are limited by sample size and variability of results. The question remains whether there is sufficient evidence to support companies’ promises and consumers’ goals.

Methods

In this review, we investigate and compare the claims surrounding collagen supplementation on Instagram and YouTube, made by collagen companies, and established in the literature.

Results

Although some studies have demonstrated that collagen supplementation can enhance skin qualities such as elasticity and hydration, dermatologic claims in the media surpass any evidence currently supported by the literature.

Conclusions

More research is needed to establish knowledge of the effects and physiologic mechanism of collagen supplementation. Dermatologists should be aware of the unsubstantiated proclamations of collagen made by companies and in social media, as well as what evidence is established thus far, to be equipped to discuss collagen supplementation with patients.
Probiotic supplementation in healthy pre‐school‐aged children: Prevalence and predictors
Authors: Irwin Nicola , Currie Marian J , Davis Deborah
Published: October 2021

Aim

Probiotics have been shown to prevent or treat a number of paediatric health problems; however, not much is known about how probiotics are used in the community. This study aimed to describe the prevalence and main predictors of probiotic supplementation among healthy pre‐school‐aged children.

Methods

Parents of 4‐ or 5‐year‐olds residing in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) were invited to complete a web‐based questionnaire between February and May 2020. There were 469 responses concerning 494 children eligible for analysis. Prevalence was categorised as lifetime exposure and recent exposure. Predictors were determined through multiple logistic regression modelling.

Results

Almost half (47.4%) of the children had ever been exposed to probiotics and 14.9% had taken probiotics in the previous month. The strongest predictors of lifetime probiotic exposure were parental lifetime probiotic use (OR 13.3; 95% CI 7.4–24.1) and an interaction between functional food consumption and parental lifetime probiotic use (OR 5.6; 95% CI 2.6–12.1). The strongest predictor of recent probiotic exposure was parental recent probiotic use (OR 13.3; 95% CI 5.7–30.8).

Conclusions

This study illustrates the high prevalence of probiotic exposure among healthy pre‐school‐aged children in the ACT and emphasises the relationship between parental use of probiotics and exposure in children. These findings will allow comparison and analysis of trends over time. Practitioners should be aware of the evidence for and against probiotics as these findings suggest a high level of acceptability among parents.
Did they even try? Brazilian government policy measures in the first 12 weeks of the pandemic
Authors: Duval Rodrigues Neto Damasio
Published: October 2021

This article draws from recently developed frameworks for the analysis of complex, boundary‐spanning policy problems to consider the response of the Brazilian government in the initial stages of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The timeframe selected for analysis covers the first 12 weeks after the first confirmed case in the country. Analysis is focused on government coordination, including major policy measures such as a constitutional amendment and provisional presidential decrees, and on the role of discourses in policymaking. Findings indicate that the Brazilian government failed to respond properly to the pandemic and did not steer public action toward collectively accepted goals. Further consideration raises the question as to whether the government tried to halt the spread of the virus; an analysis of the ideology embraced by the national–populist political coalition suggests that the dehumanization of political enemies is a strategic alternative. Conclusions argue that the dehumanization of the other is a viable strategy for the government and suggest that the pandemic crisis is part of a continuum of crises that calls for a reframing of societal choices and political‐economical design in Brazil and elsewhere.
Pentoxifylline and tocopherol (vitamin E) with/without clodronate for the management of osteoradionecrosis: A scoping review
Authors: Banjar Assim , Patel Vinod , Abed Hassan
Published: October 2021

Background

Treatment of osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is not a straightforward task, and it is unpredictable. However, a combination of pentoxifylline; an antioxidant drug, and tocopherol (vitamin E) works as a potent antifibrotic agent and have shown recently both significant and impressive results.

Aims

This scoping review aims to investigate the most prescribed regimen of pentoxifylline and tocopherol with/without clodronate for the management of ORN.

Methods

Ovid MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were used to retrieve eligible studies using planned search keywords. PROSPERO and Cohcarne library were also searched for ongoing or published systematic reviews, respectively. Included articles were grouped thematically according to the type of studies and accordingly they were summarized.

Results

A total of 27 articles met the inclusion criteria and included in the data analyses. All the included articles were published between 1997 and 2020. Of these 27 included studies, two were randomized control trials, two were systematic reviews, six were retrospective studies, five were observational studies, seven were narrative reviews, four were case reports, and lastly one was an in‐vitro study.

Conclusions

Treatment by PENTO (800 mg of pentoxifylline + 1000 IU of tocopherol) once daily for an early established ORN or PENTOCLO (PENTO regimen + 1600 mg of clodronate) once daily for the refractory/severe cases of ORN appears to be the most prescribed regimen used for the treatment of ORN using these drugs. These drugs appear safe, effective and inexpensive for the treatment of ORN.
Effects of population density on static allometry between horn length and body mass in mountain ungulates
Authors: Pélabon Christophe , Côté Steeve D. , Festa‐Bianchet Marco , Gaillard Jean‐Michel , Garel Mathieu , Lemaître Jean‐Francois , Loison Anne , Tidière Morgane , Toïgo Carole
Published: October 2021

Little is known about the effects of environmental variation on allometric relationships of condition‐dependent traits, especially in wild populations. We estimated sex‐specific static allometry between horn length and body mass in four populations of mountain ungulates that experienced periods of contrasting density over the course of the study. These species displayed contrasting sexual dimorphism in horn size; high dimorphism in Capra ibex and Ovis canadensis and low dimorphism in Rupicapra rupicapra and Oreamnos americanus. The effects of density on static allometric slopes were weak and inconsistent while allometric intercepts were generally lower at high density, especially in males from species with high sexual dimorphism in horn length. These results confirm that static allometric slopes are more canalized than allometric intercepts against environmental variation induced by changes in population density.
Plant functional traits shape growth rate for xerophytic shrubs
Authors: Zhang C. , Niu D. , Zhang L. , Li X. , Fu H.
Published: October 2021

Trade‐offs exist for xerophytic shrubs between functional traits, involving in water loss and assimilate accumulation, can contribute to its survival and growth rate regulation in arid environments. However, growth analysis based on plant functional traits has been focused on the study of herbs and woody species. It is still unclear how the functional traits of xerophytic shrubs regulate their growth rate.

In this study, we selectedeight xerophytic shrubs as samples to analyze the regulation process of the functional traits of shrubs on growth rate. Plants were cultivated for three years, and three harvests (every one year) were carried out. Factors explaining between‐species differences in relative growth rate (RGR) varied, depending on whether different ages were considered.

The results showed that RGR was positively correlated with net assimilation rate, but there was a significant negative correlation with leaf area ration (LAR), specific leaf area (SLA), and leaf biomass ratio in the age 1. However, in the age 2, RGR showed a significant positive correlation with the morphological traits (i.e., leaf area ration and specific leaf area), but not with physiological traits (i.e., net assimilation rate) and leaf biomass allocation.

Our results suggested that the fluctuation of environmental factors affects the regulation path of the plant functional traits on RGR of xerophytic shrubs. However, the analysis of causality model showed that no matter in which age, net assimilation rate and leaf area ration principally drive the variation in RGR among xerophytic shrubs.
Crosstalk between H2S and NO: an emerging signalling pathway during waterlogging stress in legume crops
Authors: Tyagi A. , Sharma S. , Ali S. , Gaikwad K.
Published: October 2021

In legumes, waterlogging is a major detrimental factor leading to huge yield losses. Generally, legumes lack tolerance to submergence, and conventional breeding to develop tolerant varieties are limited due to the lack of tolerant germplasm and potential target genes. Moreover, our understanding of the various signalling cascades, their interactions and key pathways induced during waterlogging is limited. Here, we focus on the role of two important plant signalling molecules, viz. hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO), during waterlogging stress in legumes. Plants and soil microbes produce these signalling molecules both endogenously and exogenously under various stresses, including waterlogging. NO and H2S are known to regulate key physiological pathways, such as stomatal closure, leaf senescence and regulation of numerous stress signalling pathways, while NO plays a pivotal role in adventitious root formation during waterlogging. The crosstalk between H2S and NO is synergistic because of the resemblance of their physiological effects and proteomic functions, which mainly operate through cysteine‐dependent post‐translational modifications via S‐nitrosation and persulfidation. Such knowledge has provided novel platforms for researchers to unravel the complexity associated with H2S–NO signalling and interactions with plant stress hormones. This review provides an overall summary on H2S and NO, including biosynthesis, biological importance, crosstalk, transporter regulation as well as understanding their role during waterlogging using ‘multi‐omics’ approach. Understanding H2S and NO signalling will help in deciphering the metabolic interactions and identifying key regulatory genes that could be used for developing waterlogging tolerance in legumes.
Current progress in studying blackleg disease (Leptosphaeria maculans and L. biglobosa) of canola in Iran: Where do we stand now?
Authors: Zamanmirabadi Ali , Hemmati Roghayeh , Dolatabadian Aria , Batley Jacqueline
Published: October 2021

Blackleg, caused by a complex of Leptosphaeria species (L. maculans and L. biglobosa), is a fungal disease on Brassica species, especially important in canola (Brassica napus). Since the first report of L. biglobosa in Iran in 2007 and L. maculans in 2008, both species are now of major importance in Iran affecting 10 provinces and 30 regions, with a higher prevalence in the northern provinces of Mazandaran and Golestan. Despite the rapid progression of the disease and the emergence of new Leptosphaeria races in Iran, the research into this pathogen has not progressed at the same rate and is limited to phenotypic characterization studies, pathogenicity research, and to a lesser extent, disease management research. Given the rapid increase in canola cultivation in Iran and changes in the genetic diversity of the pathogen populations, it is likely that blackleg disease will increasingly become a severe threat to Iran’s canola production. Therefore, systematic and prospective studies, along with fundamental research on the pathogen's biology, epidemiology, and genetic diversity, would provide critical information for the development of disease management strategies. Here, we review the research that has been carried out to date on blackleg disease in Iran and describe the extent of progress towards disease control, especially in disease‐prone regions.
Accountability in the EU's para‐regulatory state: The case of the Economic and Monetary Union
Authors: Dawson Mark , Maricut‐Akbik Adina
Published: October 2021

This article revisits Majone's famous argument about accountability in the regulatory state in reference to the European Union's (EU) Economic and Monetary Union. We show that the EU has entered the stage of a “para‐regulatory state” marked by increasing EU regulation in areas linked to core state powers. Despite the redistributive and politicized nature of these policy areas, the EU's “para‐regulatory state” has continued to rely on its regulatory model of accountability, focused on decisionmaking processes, and interest mediation. In line with Majone, we describe the model as procedural and contrast it to substantive accountability – which is necessary when regulation has clear redistributive implications. Using two case studies from fiscal policy and monetary affairs, we illustrate the predominance of procedural accountability as exercised by the European Parliament and EU Courts. We complement the empirical analysis with a normative discussion of how substantive accountability could potentially be rendered in both fields.
The long‐term development of crisis management in China—Continuity, institutional punctuations and reforms
Authors: Liu Yihong , Christensen Tom
Published: October 2021

This study focuses on the long‐term development of crisis management on the central level in China. Drawing on archival and interview data, it describes and analyzes how governance capacity and the formal structure of crisis management have changed, but also how culturally based legitimacy has altered over the past seventy years. These processes of change are divided into three phases, punctuated by institutional shifts in the history of crisis management institutions, whereby both vertical and horizontal coordination have become stronger over time. Crisis management in China is a legacy of traditional disaster management. In this respect it is different from the West, where crisis management has its origins in civil defense. We argue that each reform element is blended with traditional practices in an ever more complex combination, producing hybrid reform patterns. We conclude that centralization and a government‐centered approach in the institutional history can explain the high short‐term mobilization capacity and the challenges of communication in Chinese crisis management.
Twitter and the electoral connection
Authors: Gray Thomas R. , Gutierrez‐Mannix Carlos
Published: October 2021

Objective

U.S. politicians use social media to engage directly with citizens, though the motivations that determine the choice to use social media remain opaque. We argue that there is a clear “electoral connection” in using social media that exceeds the influence of other motivations. Politicians use social media to cultivate support from electorally relevant actors.

Methods

We analyze Twitter usage from 2017 to 2020 by state attorneys general (AGs), who vary in being appointed or elected.

Results

We find that elected AGs are more likely to have Twitter accounts, use the accounts more often, and receive more engagement from other users as a result. We also find that they automate their tweeting more often. We replicate our primary findings on state secretaries of state and find similar results.

Conclusion

Our findings point to the importance of elections for motivating social‐media use by politicians.
Pig manure digestate‐derived biochar for soil management and crop cultivation in heavy metals contaminated soil
Authors: Ayaz Muhammad , Stulpinaite Urte , Feiziene Dalia , Tilvikiene Vita , Akthar Kashif , Baltrėnaitė‐Gedienė Edita , Striugas Nerijus , Rehmani Urooj , Alam Sahib , Iqbal Rashid , Toleikiene Monika , Doyeni Modupe
Published: October 2021

Management of heavy metal‐contaminated soil under drought and other harsh hydrological conditions is critical for protecting soil ecosystem services. In this study, we examined the effect of pig manure digestate‐derived biochar as a soil amendment (15 t ha−1) with N fertilizer (180 kg ha−1) on soil and plant heavy metal levels and nutrient availability under various moisture regimes (optimal moisture ~15%, drought condition ≤5%, and flooded condition ≥35% wt.). It was observed that biochar applications significantly decreased heavy metals in the spring wheat plants, lowering Cr by 90%, Ni by 50%, Cd by 9% and Pb by 34% compared to non‐biochar (control) treatments. However, the pig digestate‐derived biochar increased heavy metals in soil under all moisture regimes, increasing soil Cr by 21%, Ni by 43%, Cu by 55%, Zn by 70%, and Pb by 12%. The availability of macroelements also increased with the biochar applications under the optimum moisture regimes in both soil and plants, increasing Mg2+ by 11%, P by 4%, K+ by 50%, and Ca2+ by 56% in the soil, and Mg2+ by 13%, P by 69%, K+ by 29, and Ca2+ by 39% in plants. Biochar addition also improved chlorophyll fluorescence (CF) levels in the crop for the entire season (12th to 62nd day) and the aboveground crop biomass and dry matter contents both increased. Consequently, the use of pig manure digestate‐derived biochar with N fertilizer under normal moisture conditions was able to reduce heavy metal availability to plants and thus could be used in contaminated soils to maintain better crop growth and development.
Arabidopsis bioinformatics: tools and strategies
Authors: Cantó‐Pastor Alex , Mason G. Alex , Brady Siobhan M. , Provart Nicholas J.
Published: October 2021

The sequencing of the Arabidopsis thaliana genome 21 years ago ushered in the genomics era for plant research. Since then, an incredible variety of bioinformatic tools permit easy access to large repositories of genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, epigenomic and other ‘‐omic’ data. In this review, we cover some more recent tools (and highlight the ‘classics’) for exploring such data in order to help formulate quality, testable hypotheses, often without having to generate new experimental data. We cover tools for examining gene expression and co‐expression patterns, undertaking promoter analyses and gene set enrichment analyses, and exploring protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions. We will touch on tools that integrate different data sets at the end of the article.
TheE‐Syt3cleavage and traffic uncovers the primordial cisterna, a new organelle that mothers the lipid droplets in the adipocyte
Authors: Lalioti Vasiliki , Beznoussenko Galina V. , Mironov Alexander A. , Sandoval Ignacio V.
Published: October 2021

Extended synaptotagmins are endoplasmic reticulum proteins consisting of an SMP domain and multiple C2 domains that bind phospholipids and Ca2+. E‐Syts create contact junctions between the ER and plasma membrane (PM) to facilitate the exchange of glycerophospholipids between the apposed membranes. We find in the differentiating adipocyte that the E‐Syt3 carboxyl domain is cleaved by a multi‐step mechanism that includes removing the C2C domain. Confocal and live‐cell time‐lapse studies show that truncated E‐Syt3ΔC2C, as well as endogenous E‐Syt3 and the coat protein PLIN1, target the LDs from an annular, single giant ER cisterna. Inhibition of the proteasome blocks the proteolytic cleavage of Esyt3 and E‐Syt3ΔC2C and causes the E‐Syt3ΔC2C retention in the giant cisterna. The Esyt3 and PLIN1 distributions and LDs biogenesis show that the primordial cisterna, as we call it, is the birth and nurturing site of LDs in the adipocyte. Isoproterenol‐induced lipolysis results in loss of cytoplasmic LDs and reappearance of the primordial cisterna. Electron microscopy and 3D‐electron tomography studies show that the primordial cisterna consists of a tightly packed network of varicose tubules with extensively blistered membranes. Rounds of homotypic fusions from nascent to mature LDs play a central role in LD growth. The knockdown of E‐Syt3 inhibits LD biogenesis. The identification of the primordial cisterna, an organelle that substitutes the randomly scattered ER foci that mother the LDs in non‐adipose cells, sets the stage for a better understanding of LD biogenesis in the adipocyte.
Should We Use Activity Tracker Data From Smartphones and Wearables to Understand Population Physical Activity Patterns?
Authors: Mair Jacqueline L. , Hayes Lawrence D. , Campbell Amy K. , Sculthorpe Nicholas
Published: October 2021

Researchers, practitioners, and public health organizations from around the world are becoming increasingly interested in using data from consumer-grade devices such as smartphones and wearable activity trackers to measure physical activity (PA). Indeed, large-scale, easily accessible, and autonomous data collection concerning PA as well as other health behaviors is becoming ever more attractive. There are several benefits of using consumer-grade devices to collect PA data including the ability to obtain big data, retrospectively as well as prospectively, and to understand individual-level PA patterns over time and in response to natural events. However, there are challenges related to representativeness, data access, and proprietary algorithms that, at present, limit the utility of this data in understanding population-level PA. In this brief report we aim to highlight the benefits, as well as the limitations, of using existing data from smartphones and wearable activity trackers to understand large-scale PA patterns and stimulate discussion among the scientific community on what the future holds with respect to PA measurement and surveillance.
Effect of a Fundamental Motor Skills Intervention on Fundamental Motor Skill and Physical Activity in a Preschool Setting: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Engel Alexander , Broderick Carolyn , van Doorn Nancy , Hardy Louise , Ward Rachel , Kwai Natalie , Parmenter Belinda
Published: October 2021

Purpose: To determine the effect of a 12-week fundamental motor skill (FMS) program on FMS and physical activity (PA) on preschool-aged children. Method: A cluster randomized controlled trial. The intervention (PhysicaL ActivitY and Fundamental Motor Skills in Pre-schoolers [PLAYFun] Program) was a 12-week games-based program, delivered directly to the children in childcare centers by exercise physiologists. Children in the control arm received the usual preschool curriculum. Outcomes included FMS competence (Test of Gross Motor Development-2) and PA (accelerometer) assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks (12-wk postintervention). Results: Fifty children (mean age = 4.0 [0.6] y; 54% male) were recruited from 4 childcare centers. Two centers were randomized to PLAYFun and 2 centers were randomized to the waitlist control group. Children attended on average 2.0 (1.0) 40-minute sessions per week. The PLAYFun participants demonstrated significant increases in object control (P < .001) and total FMS (P = .010) competence at week 12, compared with controls in a group × time interaction. Girls, but not boys, in PLAYFun significantly increased moderate to vigorous PA after the intervention (P = .004). These increases were not maintained 12-week postcompletion of PLAYFun. Conclusions: The PLAYFun Program is effective at improving FMS competence in boys and girls and increasing PA in girls. However, improvements are not maintained when opportunities to practice are not sustained.
The Small RNA MicC Downregulates
hilD
Translation To Control the Salmonella Pathogenicity Island 1 Type III Secretion System in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Cakar Fatih , Golubeva Yekaterina A. , Vanderpool Carin K. , Slauch James M.
Published: October 2021

The
Salmonella
pathogenicity island 1 (SPI1) type III secretion system (T3SS) is the primary virulence factor required for causing intestinal disease and initiating systemic infection. The system is regulated in response to a large variety of environmental and physiological factors such that the T3SS is expressed at only the appropriate time and place in the host during infection.
Respiratory Pathogen Coinfections in SARS-CoV-2-Positive Patients in Southeastern Wisconsin: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Scott Samantha J. , Pfotenhauer Beth , Weiner Joshua J. , Hilleshiem Jordan , Khubbar Manjeet , Bhattacharyya Sanjib
Published: October 2021

This examination of respiratory pathogen coinfections in SARS-CoV-2 patients will likely shed light on our understanding of polymicrobial infection associated with COVID-19. Our results should prompt public health authorities to improve seasonal respiratory pathogen surveillance practices and address the risk of disease severity.
Characterization of Tonsil Microbiota and Their Effect on Adenovirus Reactivation in Tonsillectomy Samples
Authors: Wang Lingling , Xu Dongge , Huang Qun , Yang Guang , Zhang Mengyu , Bi Jingai , Shan Jinjun , Li Erguang , He Susu
Published: October 2021

Human adenovirus infection is common among pediatric patients and can be life-threatening among organ transplant recipients. Adenovirus is transmitted by close contact, but it is believed that a majority of invasive events appear to arise from viral reactivation.
SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Binding and Neutralization in Dried Blood Spot Eluates and Paired Plasma
Authors: Itell Hannah L. , Weight Haidyn , Fish Carolyn S. , Logue Jennifer K. , Franko Nicholas , Wolf Caitlin R. , McCulloch Denise J. , Galloway Jared , Matsen Frederick A. , Chu Helen Y. , Overbaugh Julie
Published: October 2021

Plasma and sera isolated from venous blood represent conventional sample types used for the evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 antibody responses after infection or vaccination. However, collection of these samples is invasive and requires trained personnel and equipment for immediate processing.
Diagnosis and management of bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Gilfillan Margaret , Bhandari Anita , Bhandari Vineet
Published: October 2021

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common chronic lung disease in infants and is associated with increased mortality, respiratory morbidity, neurodevelopmental impairment, and increased healthcare costs. In parallel with advances made in the field of neonatal intensive care, the phenotype of BPD has evolved from a fibrocystic disease affecting late preterm infants to one of impaired parenchymal development and dysregulated vascular growth predominantly affecting infants born before 29 weeks’ gestational age. BPD has been shown to have significant lifelong consequences. Adults with BPD have been found to have abnormal lung function tests, reduced exercise tolerance, and may be at increased risk for developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Evidence shows that BPD occurs secondary to genetic-environmental interactions in an immature lung. In this review, we evaluate the various clinical definitions, imaging modalities, and biomarker data that are helpful in making an early diagnosis of BPD. In addition, we evaluate recent evidence about the prevention and treatment of BPD. We discuss the invasive and non-invasive ventilation strategies and pharmacological agents used in the early, evolving, and established phases of BPD.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on ethnic minority communities: a qualitative study on the perspectives of ethnic minority community leaders
Authors: Mahmood Fesani , Acharya Dev , Kumar Kanta , Paudyal Vibhu
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To explore the perspectives of ethnic minority community leaders in relation to: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their communities; and their community’s perception, understanding and adherence to government guidelines on COVID-19 public health measures.

Design

A phenomenological approach was adopted using qualitative semistructured interviews.

Settings

Community organisations and places of worships in the West Midlands, England.

Participants

Community leaders recruited through organisations representing ethnic minority communities and religious places of worship.

Results

A total of 19 participants took part. Participants alluded to historical and structural differences for the observed disparities in COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. Many struggled with lockdown measures which impeded cultural and religious gatherings that were deemed to be integral to the community. Cultural and social practices led to many suffering on their own as discussion of mental health was still deemed a taboo within many communities. Many expressed their community’s reluctance to report symptoms for the fear of financial and physical health implications. They reported increase in hate crime which was deemed to be exacerbated due to perceived insensitive messaging from authority officials and historical racism in the society. Access and adherence to government guidelines was an issue for many due to language and digital barriers. Reinforcement from trusted community and religious leaders encouraged adherence. Points of support such as food banks were vital in ensuring essential supplies during the pandemic. Many could not afford or have access to masks and sanitisers.

Conclusion

The study highlights the perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ethnic minority communities. Government agencies and public health agencies need to integrate with the community, and community leaders can enable dissemination of key messages to deliver targeted yet sensitive public health advice which incorporates cultural and religious practices. Addressing the root causes of disparities is imperative to mitigate current and future pandemics.
Advanced image-supported lead placement in cardiac resynchronisation therapy: protocol for the multicentre, randomised controlled ADVISE trial and early economic evaluation
Authors: Wouters Philippe C , van Lieshout Chris , van Dijk Vincent F , Delnoy Peter-Paul HM , Doevendans Pieter AFM , Cramer Maarten J , Frederix Geert WJ , van Slochteren Frebus J , Meine Mathias
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Achieving optimal placement of the left ventricular (LV) lead in cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) is a prerequisite in order to achieve maximum clinical benefit, and is likely to help avoid non-response. Pacing outside scar tissue and targeting late activated segments may improve outcome. The present study will be the first randomised controlled trial to compare the efficacy ofreal-timeimage-guided LV lead delivery to conventional CRT implantation. In addition, to estimate the cost-effectiveness of targeted lead implantation, an early decision analytic model was developed, and described here.

Methods and analysis

A multicentre, interventional, randomised, controlled trial will be conducted in a total of 130 patients with a class I or IIa indication for CRT implantation. Patients will be stratified to ischaemic heart failure aetiology and 1:1 randomised to either empirical lead placement or live image-guided lead placement. Ultimate lead location and echocardiographic assessment will be performed by core laboratories, blinded to treatment allocation and patient information. Late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and CINE-CMR with feature-tracking postprocessing software will be used to semi-automatically determine myocardial scar and late mechanical activation. The subsequent treatment file with optimal LV-lead positions will be fused with the fluoroscopy, resulting in live target-visualisation during the procedure. The primary endpoint is the difference in percentage of successfully targeted LV-lead location. Secondary endpoints are relative percentage reduction in indexed LV end-systolic volume, a hierarchical clinical endpoint, and quality of life. The early analytic model was developed using a Markov-model, consisting of seven mutually exclusive health states.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee Utrecht (NL73416.041.20). All participants are required to provide written informed consent. Results will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT05053568; Trial NL8666.
An Effective Approach for Constructing a Class of 4D Multicluster Conservative Chaotic Systems without External Excitation
Authors: Li Yue , Chen Zengqiang , Wang Zenghui , Cang Shijian
Published: October 2021

Compared with dissipative chaos, conservative chaos is more suitable for information encryption since it does not have attractors, therefore, it is important to construct different complicated conservative chaotic systems. This paper reports an effective approach to construct a class of 4D conservative systems based on the formalism of a generalized Hamiltonian system. Based on the construction approach, several example systems including one hyperspatial multicluster chaotic system are proposed, and different cluster-shaped chaotic flows are discovered in these example systems. The only difference of these example systems is their Hamiltonians, whose local minimum points directly determine the number and position of these cluster-shaped conservative chaotic flows. Numerical simulations vividly demonstrate that different cluster-shaped chaotic flows really move around different local centers, i.e. the local minimum points of the Hamiltonian. In addition, an analog circuit is designed and simulated in NI Multisim to confirm the existence of multicluster conservative chaotic flows at the physical level.
Cyclicity of a Class of Hamiltonian Systems under Perturbations of Piecewise Smooth Polynomials
Authors: Zhou Jinping , Zhao Liqin , Wang Jiaxin
Published: October 2021

In the study of the weakened Hilbert’s 16th problem, there usually appears period annulus surrounding more than one singular point, implying that there are often more than three generate functions in the Abelian integrals (or the first order Melnikov functions). It is also known that there are usually more than three generate functions in the study of the bifurcation of limit cycles in piecewise smooth Hamiltonian systems. This paper aims to explore a method so that we can estimate the upper bound of limit cycles bifurcating from the period annulus if the unperturbed system has some good properties such as Picard–Fuchs equations. This method is based on [Gavrilov & Iliev, 2009] and is useful for smooth and piecewise smooth polynomial vector fields of a general degree. Finally, we present an example to illustrate an application of the theoretical results.
Capturing Dynamic Behaviors of a Rate Sensitive, Elastomer with Strain Energy Absorptions and Dissipation Effects
Authors: Ali Shahzad Fateh , Fan Jitang
Published: October 2021

A strain-rate-sensitive polyurethane elastomer is numerically investigated to reveal impact behaviors and analyze the inputted strain energy dissipation features with concerned rate dependencies. In view of the amorphous structure of elastomers, a thermo-mechanical model is developed via relating the macro-mechanical behaviors to micro-structural changes through molecular transitions and two distinct flow activations with each possessing a unique activation energy. Under large straining, detangling of molecular chains and networks through sliding is found to produce serious frictional effects resulting in instantaneous heat generation and temperature rise. To incorporate these heat-effected issues, an instantaneous temperature rise is calculated at each macro-level material point to ascertain the localized changes in the associated mechanical response. The overall perspectives of the dynamic mechanical behavior including visco-elastic large deformation, rate dependent yielding, thermal softening, flow at plateau stress, and strain hardening are found well captured. Investigations are extended for the material recoverability and accordingly, strain energy absorptions are clarified. Finally, a power law function is proposed for designing the energy absorption relation to the applied loading rate.
Automatic Identification of Harmful, Aggressive, Abusive, and Offensive Language on the Web: A Survey of Technical Biases Informed by Psychology Literature
Authors: Balayn Agathe , Yang Jie , Szlavik Zoltan , Bozzon Alessandro
Published: October 2021

The automatic detection of conflictual languages (harmful, aggressive, abusive, and offensive languages) is essential to provide a healthy conversation environment on the Web. To design and develop detection systems that are capable of achieving satisfactory performance, a thorough understanding of the nature and properties of the targeted type of conflictual language is of great importance. The scientific communities investigating human psychology and social behavior have studied these languages in details, but their insights have only partially reached the computer science community.

In this survey, we aim both at systematically characterizing the conceptual properties of online conflictual languages, and at investigating the extent to which they are reflected in state-of-the-art automatic detection systems. Through an analysis of psychology literature, we provide a reconciled taxonomy that denotes the ensemble of conflictual languages typically studied in computer science. We then characterize the conceptual mismatches that can be observed in the main semantic and contextual properties of these languages and their treatment in computer science works; and systematically uncover resulting technical biases in the design of machine learning classification models and the dataset created for their training. Finally, we discuss diverse research opportunities for the computer science community and reflect on broader technical and structural issues.
Modeling Tourists’ Departure Time considering the Influence of Multisource Traffic Information
Authors: Yu Shijun , Zhang Siyuan , Deng Shejun , Ji Tao , Zhou Peng , Peng Lang
Published: October 2021

The development of tourism brings economic benefits as well as additional pressure on the urban traffic system. For example, the travel time of tourists coincides with the rush hour of urban residents’ daily commuting. Limited urban traffic resources cannot meet the travel needs of tourists and urban residents at the same time, resulting in traffic congestion and low travel efficiency. Now, with the development of intelligent technology, tourists can obtain real-time information about transportation systems through various channels and adjust their travel behavior accordingly. This study shows tourists’ travel behavior based on a survey conducted to the tourists in Yangzhou city. 1500-interview data are analyzed, and a Multinomial Logit Model (MNL) was employed to establish the probability prediction model of tourists’ departure time choice. The results presented that sync traffic information and some other tourism-related factors determine the choice of tourists’ departure time. These factors distinguish the travel behavior of tourists from the daily travel behavior of urban residents. This study can provide suggestions for the urban tourism management department to formulate more targeted and efficient policies while creating a more comfortable tourism environment for tourists.