bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms governing codon usage bias and the implications for protein expression in the chloroplast of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Fages‐Lartaud Maxime , Hundvin Kristoffer , Hohmann‐Marriott Martin Frank
Published: September 2022

Chloroplasts possess a considerably reduced genome that is decoded via an almost minimal set of tRNAs. These features make an excellent platform for gaining insights into fundamental mechanisms that govern protein expression. Here, we present a comprehensive and revised perspective of the mechanisms that drive codon selection in the chloroplast of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and the functional consequences for protein expression. In order to extract this information, we applied several codon usage descriptors to genes with different expression levels. We show that highly expressed genes strongly favor translationally optimal codons, while genes with lower functional importance are rather affected by directional mutational bias. We demonstrate that codon optimality can be deduced from codon–anticodon pairing affinity and, for a small number of amino acids (leucine, arginine, serine, and isoleucine), tRNA concentrations. Finally, we review, analyze, and expand on the impact of codon usage on protein yield, secondary structures of mRNA, translation initiation and termination, and amino acid composition of proteins, as well as cotranslational protein folding. The comprehensive analysis of codon choice provides crucial insights into heterologous gene expression in the chloroplast of C. reinhardtii, which may also be applicable to other chloroplast‐containing organisms and bacteria.
Characterization of six Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains carrying Stx2-phages from Colombia
Authors: Arango Brayan Stiven , Peña Buitrago Sebastián , Castaño Osorio Jhon Carlos , Granobles Velandia Claudia Viviana
Published: September 2022

Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a bacterial pathogen that causes diarrhea and severe human diseases like HUS; its main virulence factor are the Shiga toxins (Stx1 and Stx2). Some Stx2 subtypes have been identified and associated with the risk of developing severe illness. Stx toxins are encoded in temperate bacteriophages which control their expression through the lytic cycle that is regulated by the late genes and Q anti-terminator protein. The aim of this work was to characterize six STEC strains carrying Stx2-phages to provide preliminary information and understanding about Stx2 strains from Colombia regarding the Stx production, lytic cycle induction and subtyping of Stx2. Two highlighted strains with higher levels of Stx production and lytic cycle’s induction were observed. All the evaluated strains carried either the Stx2a, Stx2c, or Stx2d subtypes. In addition, most of the strains carried the qO111 allele, and only one strain showed differences in the ninG region. Differences in the evaluated characteristics of the strains were observed, which could indicate the variability of these six STEC strains carrying Stx2-phages.
Systematic Variation of Friction of Rods
Authors: Ibrahim Khalil Md , Tong Dezhong , Wang Guanjin , Khalid Jawed Mohammad , Khoda Bashir
Published: September 2022

The mechanical response of a knot tied in elastic rods strongly depends on the frictional force due to rod–rod contact. The behavior of a knot can be qualitatively different based on the frictional coefficient of the elastic rod. Systematic variation of friction during rod–rod contact is a crucial component of any experimental design to uncover the underlying ingredients behind the mechanics of knots. In this paper, we demonstrate a novel process of controlling the friction of a continuous rod by adhering non-spherical inorganic micro-particles. Polymeric binder is used to deliver the particles as asperities over the rod substrate and by controlling their size and distribution the coefficient of friction of the rod is determined. In parallel, numerical simulations with the discrete elastic rods algorithm are used to reproduce the experimental observations. Tabletop experiments are performed where overhand knots with a variety of unknotting numbers are pulled tight. The force–extension curve of these experiments shows that the proposed process can successfully tune the friction between rods.
Slip Characteristics in Cylindrical Roller Bearings. Part I: Influence of Cage Type on Rolling Set Slip
Authors: Dawoud Michael , Beitler Stephan , Schwarze Hubert
Published: September 2022

The slip behavior of four cage types was studied for an NU215 cylindrical roller bearing under radial forces lower than the minimum recommended by the manufacturer by performing force, speed, and oil flow ramp tests. In comparison, a specially designed full complement bearing was also tested as an alternative to the caged bearing variant. All the tested bearings started to operate slip-free at higher forces than those recommended by the bearing manufacturers. In addition to that, the increase in oil flowrate or rotational speed would increase the set slip under insufficient radial forces. Single-part outer-ring-guided brass cage experienced lower slip than its two-part equivalent while roller guidance possessed the least slip tendency among the tested cages. The polyamide cage offered the lightest weight reduction at the expense of a higher slip, whereas the full complement bearings also offer higher load-carrying capacity at the expense of higher slip.
The Influence of Combustor Hot Streaks on the Aerodynamic Performance of a Turbine Center Frame
Authors: Badžek Ena , Patinios Marios , Farisco Federica , Heitmeir Franz , Göttlich Emil
Published: September 2022

This paper investigates the influence of combustor temperature non-uniformities on modern engine turbine center frames (TCFs). Due to their position in an engine, coupled with the trends of more aggressive designs, increased turbine inlet temperatures (TIT), and utilization of lean-burn combustors, turbine center frames are exposed to even higher temperatures and non-uniform temperature flow fields. These temperature non-uniformities, or hot streaks (HS), were previously studied at the combustor—high-pressure turbine (HPT) interface, but there is no available research in the open literature that clarifies their influence on the TCF performance. A new test bench, designed specifically for fundamental research on hot streaks, was set up at the Institute for Thermal Turbomachinery and Machine Dynamics at the Graz University of Technology, Austria. The test bench features a 90 deg sector cascade of an engine representative TCF geometry, equipped with a hot streak generator and a flow conditioning grid. Experimental data were gathered by means of five-hole probe area traverses at the TCF inlet and outlet planes. Two individual clocking positions of hot streaks were investigated, as well as three different radial positions for each of the clocking scenarios. Hot streaks were injected upstream of the flow conditioning grid, generating a representative temperature ratio at the TCF inlet plane. Results show that the hot streaks have migrated radially outwards and are characterized by different temperature distributions, depending on the injection position. An increase in pressure loss and thermal loading of the strut and the shroud are observed.
High-Fidelity Simulation Study of the Unsteady Flow Effects on High-Pressure Turbine Blade Performance
Authors: Leggett John , Zhao Yaomin , Sandberg Richard D.
Published: September 2022

Unsteadiness, in the form of both broadband background disturbances and discrete coherent wakes, can have a strong effect on the performance of turbomachinery blades. The influence of the incoming flow has received much interest as it inevitably affects the blade boundary layers and develops as it passes through the machine. In the present work, we investigate the effect of unsteady flow on high-pressure turbines (HPTs), using high-fidelity datasets produced by wall resolved large-eddy simulation of an HPT stage. The effects of incident wakes from an upstream stator, compounded by the presence of freestream turbulence, on the downstream rotor are investigated. Based on analyzing cases with different turbulence intensities and length scales prescribed at the inlet, we show that changing the freestream turbulence characteristics has a direct effect on the unsteady behavior of the stator wakes. As a result, the performance of the rotor is also significantly affected. By detailing the influence of the wake–turbulence interaction, we aim to distinguish driving forces on rotor performance, be it changes in the incident wakes or direct influence from the freestream turbulence. Furthermore, the aerothermal behaviors of the rotor blades have been extensively investigated, showing that the blade boundary layers on the suction and pressure sides respond differently to external disturbances. The insights gained can provide designers with guidelines in understanding the unsteady flow effects of a given flow state, and how the unsteadiness present, either broadband or deterministic, will affect the performance of downstream blades.
LOS CUERPOS TATUADOS: NARRATIVAS VISUALES DE TATUAJES EN XALAPA.
Authors:   UNED, Tejero Alonso Ángel
Published: September 2022

La historia, mitología, tradición e iconografía inundan el rico acervo cultural de México, pero, ¿hasta qué punto son utilizadas en las construcciones identitarias actuales? Desde la antropología y la estética se ha abordado esta investigación sobre cómo los tatuajes son uno de los elementos utilizados por algunas personas de Xalapa para construir -de forma voluntaria y permanente- sus propios cuerpos y personalidades. Al trabajar junto a profesionales y portadores de tatuajes se ha podido obtener información tanto de carácter técnico como emotivo. El cuerpo tatuado se convierte en una narrativa visual con la que transmitir y preservar múltiples mensajes. Los tatuajes de iconos como Quetzalcóatl, Coatlicue o Hunab-ku, enuncian hitos biográficos donde cada quien realiza su propia exégesis. Por otra parte, las redes sociales -Instagram- alimentan su exhibición y contribuyen a la cimentación de una imagen corporal prototípica a imitar. Además de ser una plataforma vital para generar, mantener y ampliar las relaciones entre miembros de la comunidad.
Spin-selective tunneling from nanowires of the candidate topological Kondo insulator SmB
6
Authors: Aishwarya Anuva , Cai Zhuozhen , Raghavan Arjun , Romanelli Marisa , Wang Xiaoyu , Li Xu , Gu G. D. , Hirsbrunner Mark , Hughes Taylor , Liu Fei , Jiao Lin , Madhavan Vidya
Published: September 2022

Incorporating relativistic physics into quantum tunneling can lead to exotic behavior such as perfect transmission through Klein tunneling. Here, we probed the tunneling properties of spin-momentum-locked relativistic fermions by designing and implementing a tunneling geometry that uses nanowires of the topological Kondo insulator candidate samarium hexaboride. The nanowires are attached to the end of scanning tunneling microscope tips and used to image the bicollinear stripe spin order in the antiferromagnet Fe
1.03
Te with a Neel temperature of about 50 kelvin. The antiferromagnetic stripes become invisible above 10 kelvin concomitant with the suppression of the topological surface states in the tip. We further demonstrate that the direction of spin polarization is tied to the tunneling direction. Our technique establishes samarium hexaboride nanowires as ideal conduits for spin-polarized currents.
Systematic electronic structure in the cuprate parent state from quantum many-body simulations
Authors: Cui Zhi-Hao , Zhai Huanchen , Zhang Xing , Chan Garnet Kin-Lic
Published: September 2022

The quantitative description of correlated electron materials remains a modern computational challenge. We demonstrate a numerical strategy to simulate correlated materials at the fully ab initio level beyond the solution of effective low-energy models and apply it to gain a detailed microscopic understanding across a family of cuprate superconducting materials in their parent undoped states. We uncover microscopic trends in the electron correlations and reveal the link between the material composition and magnetic energy scales through a many-body picture of excitation processes involving the buffer layers. Our work illustrates a path toward a quantitative and reliable understanding of more complex states of correlated materials at the ab initio many-body level.
Exclusion cycles: Reinforcing disparities in medicine
Authors: Bracic Ana , Callier Shawneequa L. , Price W. Nicholson
Published: September 2022

Clinical practice, data collection, and medical AI constitute self-reinforcing and interacting cycles of exclusion
New tech law offers billions for research
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: September 2022

CHIPS act will fund microelectronics innovation and training through large partnerships
Draft Genome Sequence of
Curtobacterium
sp. Strain MWU13-2055, Isolated from a Wild Cranberry Fruit Surface in Massachusetts, USA
Authors: Kooner Amritpal , Soby Scott
Published: September 2022

Curtobacterium
sp. strain MWU13-2055 was isolated from cranberry fruit surfaces in the Cape Cod National Seashore. The genome is 4 Mbp long with a large number of genes predicted to be devoted to heavy metal resistance, including the
copAZ
operon and translocases for Pb, Cd, Zn, Hg, and Cu.
Revealing the Characteristics of Glucose- and Lactate-Based Chain Elongation for Caproate Production by
Caproicibacterium lactatifermentans
through Transcriptomic, Bioenergetic, and Regulatory Analyses
Authors: Wang Huilin , Zhou Weicheng , Gao Jiangjing , Ren Cong , Xu Yan
Published: September 2022

Caproicibacterium lactatifermentans
is a unique and robust caproate-producing bacterium in the family Oscillospiraceae due to its lactate utilization capability, whereas its close relatives such as
Caproicibacterium amylolyticum
,
Caproiciproducens galactitolivorans
, and
Caproicibacter fermentans
cannot utilize lactate but produce lactate as the main fermentation end product. Moreover,
C. lactatifermentans
can also utilize several saccharides such as glucose and maltose.
Deciphering the Microbiome: Integrating Theory, New Technologies, and Inclusive Science
Authors: Milligan-McClellan Kathryn C. , Dundore-Arias José Pablo , Klassen Jonathan L. , Shade Ashley , Kinkel Linda L. , Wolfe Benjamin E.
Published: September 2022

The diversity and functional significance of microbiomes have become increasingly clear through the extensive sampling of Earth's many habitats and the rapid adoption of new sequencing technologies. However, much remains unknown about what makes a “healthy” microbiome, how to restore a disrupted microbiome, and how microbiomes assemble.
Mechanisms of IS
26
-Mediated Amplification of the
aphA1
Gene Leading to Tobramycin Resistance in an Acinetobacter baumannii Isolate
Authors: Harmer Christopher J. , Lebreton Francois , Stam Jason , McGann Patrick T. , Hall Ruth M.
Published: September 2022

Heteroresistance, a significant issue that is known to impact antibiotic treatment outcomes, is caused by the presence of spontaneously arising cells with elevated levels of resistance to therapeutically important antibiotics in a population of susceptible cells. Gene amplification is one well-documented cause of heteroresistance, but precisely how extensive amplification occurs is not understood.
Dual-Targeting Polymer Nanoparticles Efficiently Deliver DNA Vaccine and Induce Robust Prophylactic Immunity against Spring Viremia of Carp Virus Infection
Authors: Zhang Chen , Zhang Peng-Qi , Guo Sheng , Zhao Zhao , Wang Gao-Xue , Zhu Bin
Published: September 2022

Spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV) affects global cyprinid fish farming industry, with no available commercial vaccine. Herein, we developed a dual-targeting polymer nanovaccine (MCS-PCHG) by using mannose and common carp IgM heavy chain CH3 region (CH3) as antigen presenting cell (APCs) recognition moiety, attaining the effective delivery of antigen. This dual-targeting polymer vaccine can efficiently activate the APCs, and further induce robust and durable adaptive immune response with good protection against SVCV infection.
Changes in the Carbon Stocks, Microbial and Enzyme Activities of Retic Albic Podzol in Southern Taiga during Postagrogenic Evolution
Authors: Kurganova I. N. , Telesnina V. M. , Lopes de Gerenyu V. O. , Lichko V. I. , Ovsepyan L. A.
Published: September 2022

Soil organic matter largely controls the ecosystem functions of soil and is a source of energy and a nutrient substrate for the soil microbial community as well. The postagrogenic dynamics of organic matter stock (content of organic carbon, Corg; total nitrogen, Ntot; and their ratio, C/N), basic soil properties, and indicators of soil microbial and enzyme activities are analyzed for the chronosequence of Retic Albic Podzol (southern taiga zone, Kostroma oblast, Russia). Different plots of the chronosequence have been withdrawn from agricultural use 11, 16, and 40 years ago. The stratification ratios (SRs) 0–5 : 5–10, 0–10 : 10–20, and 0–10 : 20–30 cm layers for Corgand Ntotcontents are also estimated. A statistically significant increase in the contents of Corgand Ntotduring the postagrogenic succession is observed in the topsoil layer of the old arable horizon (0–5 and 5–10 cm) as well as an increase in the stratification of their distribution, especially after a closed tree canopy has developed on the former arable land. Postagrogenic succession promotes an increase in the soil basal respiration rate and the content of microbial biomass, the maximum values of which are most often recordable in the soil under a 40-year-old secondary small-leaved forest. During the natural reforestation of the former arable lands, a statistically significant increase in the phosphatase activity is observed within the entire old arable horizon. The peaks of oxidoreductase activity correspond to the stages of succession with the maximum uptake of easily decomposable plant litter. Over the 40 years of postagrogenic succession, all analyzed parameters (except for pHKCl) have increased in a statistically significant manner at all considered depths of the old arable layer, with the highest annual increase in 0–5-cm layer, most enriched for organic matter.
Ensemble neural network model for detecting thyroid eye disease using external photographs
Authors: Karlin Justin , Gai Lisa , LaPierre Nathan , Danesh Kayla , Farajzadeh Justin , Palileo Bea , Taraszka Kodi , Zheng Jie , Wang Wei , Eskin Eleazar , Rootman Daniel
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To describe an artificial intelligence platform that detects thyroid eye disease (TED).

Design

Development of a deep learning model.

Methods

1944 photographs from a clinical database were used to train a deep learning model. 344 additional images (‘test set’) were used to calculate performance metrics. Receiver operating characteristic, precision–recall curves and heatmaps were generated. From the test set, 50 images were randomly selected (‘survey set’) and used to compare model performance with ophthalmologist performance. 222 images obtained from a separate clinical database were used to assess model recall and to quantitate model performance with respect to disease stage and grade.

Results

The model achieved test set accuracy of 89.2%, specificity 86.9%, recall 93.4%, precision 79.7% and an F1 score of 86.0%. Heatmaps demonstrated that the model identified pixels corresponding to clinical features of TED. On the survey set, the ensemble model achieved accuracy, specificity, recall, precision and F1 score of 86%, 84%, 89%, 77% and 82%, respectively. 27 ophthalmologists achieved mean performance of 75%, 82%, 63%, 72% and 66%, respectively. On the second test set, the model achieved recall of 91.9%, with higher recall for moderate to severe (98.2%, n=55) and active disease (98.3%, n=60), as compared with mild (86.8%, n=68) or stable disease (85.7%, n=63).

Conclusions

The deep learning classifier is a novel approach to identify TED and is a first step in the development of tools to improve diagnostic accuracy and lower barriers to specialist evaluation.
Differential impact of opt-in, opt-out policies on deceased organ donation rates: a mixed conceptual and empirical study
Authors: Molina-Pérez Alberto , Rodríguez-Arias David , Delgado Janet
Published: September 2022

Objectives

To increase postmortem organ donation rates, several countries are adopting an opt-out (presumed consent) policy, meaning that individuals are deemed donors unless they expressly refused so. Although opt-out countries tend to have higher donation rates, there is no conclusive evidence that this is caused by the policy itself. The main objective of this study is to better assess the direct impact of consent policy defaults per se on deceased organ recovery rates when considering the role of the family in the decision-making process. This study does not take into account any indirect effects of defaults, such as potential psychological and behavioural effects on individuals and their relatives.

Design

Based on previous work regarding consent policies, we created a conceptual model of the decision-making process for deceased organ recovery that included any scenario that could be directly influenced by opt-in or opt-out policies. We then applied this model to internationally published data of the consent process to determine how frequently policy defaults could apply.

Main outcome measures

We measure the direct impact that opt-in and opt-out policies have per se on deceased organ recovery.

Results

Our analysis shows that opt-in and opt-out have strictly identical outcomes in eight out of nine situations. They only differ when neither the deceased nor the family have expressed a preference and defaults therefore apply. The direct impact of consent policy defaults is typically circumscribed to a range of 0%–5% of all opportunities for organ recovery. Our study also shows that the intervention of the family improves organ retrieval under opt-in but hinders it under opt-out.

Conclusions

This study may warn policy makers that, by emphasising the need to introduce presumed consent to increase organ recovery rates, they might be overestimating the influence of the default and underestimating the power granted to families.
Evaluation of the shielding initiative in Wales (EVITE Immunity): protocol for a quasiexperimental study
Authors: Evans Bridie Angela , Akbari Ashley , Bailey Rowena , Bethell Lesley , Bufton Samantha , Carson-Stevens Andrew , Dixon Lucy , Edwards Adrian , John Ann , Jolles Stephen , Kingston Mark Rhys , Lyons Jane , Lyons Ronan , Porter Alison , Sewell Bernadette , Thornton Catherine A , Watkins Alan , Whiffen Tony , Williams Victoria , Snooks Helen
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Shielding aimed to protect those predicted to be at highest risk from COVID-19 and was uniquely implemented in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinically extremely vulnerable people identified through algorithms and screening of routine National Health Service (NHS) data were individually and strongly advised to stay at home and strictly self-isolate even from others in their household. This study will generate a logic model of the intervention and evaluate the effects and costs of shielding to inform policy development and delivery during future pandemics.

Methods and analysis

This is a quasiexperimental study undertaken in Wales where records for people who were identified for shielding were already anonymously linked into integrated data systems for public health decision-making. We will: interview policy-makers to understand rationale for shielding advice to inform analysis and interpretation of results; use anonymised individual-level data to select people identified for shielding advice in March 2020 and a matched cohort, from routine electronic health data sources, to compare outcomes; survey a stratified random sample of each group about activities and quality of life at 12 months; use routine and newly collected blood data to assess immunity; interview people who were identified for shielding and their carers and NHS staff who delivered healthcare during shielding, to explore compliance and experiences; collect healthcare resource use data to calculate implementation costs and cost–consequences. Our team includes people who were shielding, who used their experience to help design and deliver this study.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has received approval from the Newcastle North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee (IRAS 295050). We will disseminate results directly to UK government policy-makers, publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at scientific and policy conferences and share accessible summaries of results online and through public and patient networks.
Level of sedation in critically ill adult patients: a protocol for a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Ceric Ameldina , Holgersson Johan , May Teresa , Skrifvars Markus B , Hästbacka Johanna , Saxena Manoj , Aneman Anders , Delaney Anthony , Reade Michael C , Delcourt Candice , Jakobsen Janus , Nielsen Niklas
Published: September 2022

Introduction

It is standard of care to provide sedation to critically ill patients to reduce anxiety, discomfort and promote tolerance of mechanical ventilation. Given that sedatives can have differing effects based on a variety of patient and pharmacological characteristics, treatment approaches are largely based on targeting the level of sedation. The benefits of differing levels of sedation must be balanced against potential adverse effects including haemodynamic instability, causing delirium, delaying awakening and prolonging the time of mechanical ventilation and intensive care stay. This systematic review with meta-analysis aims to investigate the current evidence and compare the effects of differing sedation levels in adult critically ill patients.

Methods and analyses

We will conduct a systematic review based on searches of preidentified major medical databases (eg, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL) and clinical trial registries from their inception onwards to identify trials meeting inclusion criteria. We will include randomised clinical trials comparing any degree of sedation with no sedation and lighter sedation with deeper sedation for critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit. We will include aggregate data meta-analyses and trial sequential analyses. Risk of bias will be assessed with domains based on the Cochrane risk of bias tool. An eight-step procedure will be used to assess if the thresholds for clinical significance are crossed, and the certainty of the evidence will be assessed using Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

Ethics and dissemination

No formal approval or review of ethics is required as individual patient data will not be included. This systematic review has the potential to highlight (1) whether one should believe sedation to be beneficial, harmful or neither in critically ill adults; (2) the existing knowledge gaps and (3) whether the recommendations from guidelines and daily clinical practice are supported by current evidence. These results will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Cohort profile:Stop the Spread Ottawa (SSO)—a community-based prospective cohort study on antibody responses, antibody neutralisation efficiency and cellular immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination
Authors: Collins Erin , Galipeau Yannick , Arnold Corey , Bosveld Cameron , Heiskanen Aliisa , Keeshan Alexa , Nakka Kiran , Shir-Mohammadi Khatereh , St-Denis-Bissonnette Frederic , Tamblyn Laura , Vranjkovic Agatha , Wood Leah C , Booth Ronald , Buchan C Arianne , Crawley Angela M , Little Julian , McGuinty Michaeline , Saginur Raphael , Langlois Marc-André , Cooper Curtis L
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To investigate the robustness and longevity of SARS-CoV-2 immune responses conferred by natural infection and vaccination among priority populations such as immunocompromised individuals and people with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 in a prospective cohort study (Stop the Spread Ottawa—SSO) in adults living in the Ottawa region. In this paper, we describe the study design, ongoing data collection and baseline characteristics of participants.

Participants

Since October 2020, participants who tested positive for COVID-19 (convalescents) or at high risk of exposure to the virus (under surveillance) have provided monthly blood and saliva samples over a 10-month period. As of 2 November 2021, 1026 adults had completed the baseline survey and 976 had attended baseline bloodwork. 300 participants will continue to provide bimonthly blood samples for 24 additional months (ie, total follow-up of 34 months).

Findings to date

The median age of the baseline sample was 44 (IQR 23, range: 18–79) and just over two-thirds (n=688; 67.1%) were female. 255 participants (24.9%) had a history of COVID-19 infection confirmed by PCR and/or serology. Over 600 participants (60.0%) work in high-risk occupations (eg, healthcare, teaching and transportation). 108 participants (10.5%) reported immunocompromising conditions or treatments at baseline (eg, cancer, HIV, other immune deficiency, and/or use of immunosuppressants).

Future plans

SSO continues to yield rich research potential, given the collection of pre-vaccine baseline data and samples from the majority of participants, recruitment of diverse subgroups of interest, and a high level of participant retention and compliance with monthly sampling. The 24-month study extension will maximise opportunities to track SARS-CoV-2 immunity and vaccine efficacy, detect and characterise emerging variants, and compare subgroup humoral and cellular response robustness and persistence.
Pharmacological interventions for hidradenitis suppurativa: a protocol for systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised trials and non-randomised studies
Authors: Aroonsakul Naritthorn , Phinyo Phichayut , Lumkul Lalita , Jarupanich Nutcha , Szepietowski Jacek , Chuamanochan Mati , Nochaiwong Surapon
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Therapeutic recommendations for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) have recently shifted towards non-invasive pharmacological options. Recent evidence has shown promising efficacy for specific treatments. However, data regarding the comparative efficacy of these treatments in patients with HS are still limited. Therefore, we plan to conduct a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) to summarise the benefits and harms of different pharmacological interventions for treating people living with HS.

Methods and analysis

We will search electronic databases, including Medline, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL and Cochrane Library beginning from their inception dates with no language restrictions. A grey literature search will be performed to supplement the electronic databases. Both randomised trials and non-randomised studies using validated measurement tools that investigated the benefits and harms of pharmacological interventions among people living with HS will be included. The predefined primary outcomes will include treatment responses that reflect the patient’s perspective and all-cause discontinuation. Screening, selection, extraction, assessment of the risk of bias and analysis of the strength of the evidence will be performed independently by a pair of reviewers. A two-step approach of traditional pairwise and NMA will be performed. Based on a random-effects model, standardised weighted mean differences and ORs with corresponding 95% CIs will be pooled as effect estimates for the continuous and categorical endpoints, respectively. Statistical and methodological heterogeneities will be assessed. Preplanned subgroup analyses and univariate meta-regression will be conducted to quantify the potential sources of heterogeneity. Evidence-based synthesis will be based on the magnitudes of effect size, evidence certainty and the surface under the cumulative ranking curve values.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required because this study is based on existing published data. These findings will be disseminated through scientific meetings and publications in peer-reviewed journals.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022302795.
Prospective double-blind randomised controlled trial protocol comparing bone marrow aspirate concentrate intra-articular injection combined with subchondral injection versus intra-articular injection alone for the treatment of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Silva Simone , Andriolo Luca , Boffa Angelo , Di Martino Alessandro , Reale Davide , Vara Giulio , Miceli Marco , Cavallo Carola , Grigolo Brunella , Zaffagnini Stefano , Filardo Giuseppe
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Subchondral and intra-articular injections of bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) showed promising results for knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients. To date, there is no evidence to demonstrate whether the combination of these treatments provides higher benefits than the intra-articular injection alone.

Methods and analysis

Eighty-six patients with symptomatic knee OA (aged between 40 and 70 years) are randomised to BMAC intra-articular injection combined with subchondral BMAC injection or BMAC intra-articular injection alone in a ratio of 1:1. The primary outcome is the total Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, the secondary outcomes are the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective and Objective Knee Evaluation Form, the Tegner activity scale, the EuroQol-Visual Analogue Scale, and the health questionnaire European Quality of Life Five Dimension score. Additional CT and MRI evaluations are performed at the baseline assessment and at the final 12-month follow-up. The hypothesis is that the combined injections provide higher knee pain and function improvement compared with BMAC intra-articular injection alone. The primary analysis follows an intention to treat principle.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by the Emilia Wide Area Ethical Committee of the Emilia-Romagna Region (CE-AVEC), Bologna, Italy. Written informed consent is obtained from all the participants. Findings of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Protocol version

Version 1 (14 May 2018).

Trial registration number

NCT03876795.
Strengthening assessment and response to mental health needs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and adolescents in primary care settings: study protocol for the Ngalaiya Boorai Gabara Budbut implementation project
Authors: Reilly Rachel , Azzopardi Peter S , Brown Alex , Fisher Jane , Patton George , Rickwood Debra J , Yong Choong-Siew , Pearson Odette , Brown Ngiare
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Opportunities for improved mental health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people lie in improving the capability of primary healthcare services to identify mental healthcare needs and respond in timely and appropriate ways. The development of culturally appropriate mental health assessment tools and clinical pathways have been identified as opportunities for strengthening workforce capacity in this area. The Ngalaiya Boorai Gabara Budbut implementation project seeks to pursue these opportunities by developing and validating a psychosocial assessment tool, understanding what services need to better care for your people and developing resources that address those needs.

Methods and analysis

The project will be governed by a research governance group comprising Aboriginal service providers, young people, and researchers. It will be implemented in an urban health service in Canberra, and regional services in Moree, Wollongong, and the Illawarra regions of New South Wales Australia. The validation study will follow an argument-based approach, assessing cultural appropriateness and ease of use; test–retest validity; internal consistency, construct validity and the quality of decisions made based on the assessment. Following piloting with a small group of young people and their caregivers (n=10), participants (n=200) will be young people and/or their caregivers, attending one of the partner services. The needs assessment will involve an in-depth exploration of service via an online survey (n=60) and in-depth interviews with service providers (n=16) and young people (n=16). These activities will run concurrently. Service providers, researchers and the governance group will codesign resources that respond to the needs identified and pilot them through the participating services.

Ethics and dissemination

The Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of NSW Human Research Ethics committee (#1769/21) has approved this project. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants and/or their caregivers (with assent from those aged <16 years) prior to participating in all aspects of the study. Research dissemination will occur through participating health services, academic journal articles and conference presentations.
Effectiveness of public health education on the uptake of iron and folic acid supplements among pregnant women: a stepped wedge cluster randomised trial
Authors: Njiru Haron , Njogu Eunice , Gitahi Mary W , Kabiru Ephantus
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Iron deficiency is the most prevalent micronutrient deficiency in pregnancy globally responsible for nearly 120 000 maternal deaths per year and a fifth of maternal mortality. Over 46% of pregnant women in Africa and 62% of pregnant women in Kenya are anaemic. Anaemia has severe economic and health consequences. Daily iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS) is an efficacious strategy recommended in pregnancy to reduce the risk of anaemia and improve maternal and neonatal survival. However, most pregnant women do not consume IFAS as recommended. Limited knowledge on IFAS, its benefits and its connection with anaemia, and mitigation of its side effects lead to poor consumption. The main objective of this trial is to determine the effectiveness of public health education on uptake of antenatal IFAS.

Methods and analysis

A stepped wedge cluster randomised trial with antenatal clinics as units of randomisation. Twelve clusters will be randomised to receive the intervention and levels of IFAS uptake compared with preintervention period. The 9-month trial will enrol 1205 pregnant women. The primary outcome will be the proportion of pregnant women effectively taking up IFAS measured through self-reports, residual pill count and inspection of pill reminder cards. Routine clinical data on haemoglobin counts and fetal growth monitoring will also be used. Descriptive and bivariate analysis will be conducted in Stata using Pearson’s χ2 test for association, and multivariate logistic regression to identify determinants of uptake. The potential public health benefits will be estimated using the number needed to treat and the preventable fraction.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted by Kenyatta University Ethics Review Committee (PKU/2443/11575). The research permit is obtained from Kenya National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI/P/22/16168). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and public health conferences.

Trial registration number

PACTR202202775997127.
Polymorphisms ofACEand thrombophilic genes: risk for recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Miljanović Olivera , Ilić Vesna , Teofilov Slađana , Cikota-Aleksić Bojana , Magić Zvonko
Published: September 2022

Background

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) affects up to 5% of pregnancies, but with no consensus on the definition. Inherited thrombophilia has been postulated as a risk factor for RPL. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of RPL with polymorphisms of five genes that influent the coagulation and fibrinolysis.

Methods

This study was conducted on total of 224 women, 129 women with ≥2 early RPL or ≥1 late pregnancy loss, 95 women with at least two normal life births and no history of pregnancy loss. Five gene polymorphismsF220 210G>A (rs1799963),F51691G>A (rs6025),MTHFR677C>T (rs1801133),SERPINE1 −675 4G/5G (rs1799762) andACEI/D (rs1799752) were genotyped by PCR-based methods.

Results

A significant relationship was found betweenSERPINE14G/4G andACED/D polymorphisms and RPL (p<0.001 both, OR 2.91 and 3.02, respectively). In contrast, no association was found betweenF220 210G>A,F51691G>A andMTHFR677C>T polymorphisms and risk for RPL. A combination of hypofibrinolytic homozygotesSERPINE14G/4G+ACE D/D was observed as a highly associated with RPL (Cochran-Armitage test, p<0.001), and their strong independent association with RPL risk was confirmed by logistic regression analysis (both p values <0.001, OR 3.35 and 3.43, respectively).

Conclusion

Our data have demonstrated thatSERPINE1andACEgene polymorphisms, individually or in combination, appear to be a significant risk for RPL. This data may be useful in adding to the knowledge on inherited thrombophilia as an important contributor to RPL pathogenesis.
Cerebrovascular pulsatile tinnitus: causes, treatments, and outcomes in 164 patients with neuroangiographic correlation
Authors: Cummins Daniel D , Caton M Travis , Hemphill Kafi , Lamboy Allison , Tu-Chan Adelyn , Meisel Karl , Narsinh Kazim H , Amans Matthew R
Published: September 2022

Background

Pulsatile tinnitus (PT) can cause significant detriment to quality of life and may herald a life-threatening condition. Endovascular evaluation is the gold standard for the definitive diagnosis of PT and facilitates treatment. However, no large study has determined the distribution of causes and treatment outcomes of PT evaluated endovascularly.

Methods

Consecutive patients evaluated at a multidisciplinary PT clinic from a single academic center were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with a suspected cerebrovascular etiology of PT based on clinical and/or non-invasive imaging, who were evaluated by endovascular techniques (arteriography, venography, manometry, and/or balloon test occlusion), were included in analysis. Baseline clinical features and treatment results by final etiology of PT were compared.

Results

Of 552 patients referred for PT evaluation, 164 patients (29.7%) who underwent endovascular evaluation of PT were included. Mean (±SD) age at first clinical evaluation was 54.3±14.1 years (range 25–89 years); 111 patients (67.7%) were female. PT causes were 75.6% vascular and 24.4% non-vascular. Arteriovenous shunting lesions caused 20.7% of cases, venous etiologies 48.2%, and arterial etiologies 6.7%. Of patients with a shunting lesion treated with endovascular embolization, 96.9% had lasting significant improvement or resolution in PT. Endovascular stenting for venous sinus stenosis gave 84.6% of patients lasting improvement or resolution in PT. Arterial and non-vascular PT had fewer patients treated endovascularly and less improvement in PT symptoms.

Conclusion

PT with a suspected vascular cause is most often attributable to venous etiologies. PT caused by arteriovenous shunting or venous sinus stenosis may be effectively treated endovascularly.
Nerve stimulation guided bilateral pudendal nerve block versus landmark-based caudal block for hypospadias repair in young children: a prospective, randomized, pragmatic trial
Authors: Choudhry Dinesh K , Heredia Larry , Brenn Bruce Randall , Brown Melinda , Carvalho Norman F , Whaley Milicent C , Shaik Sadiq S , Hagerty Jennifer A , Bani Hani Ahmad
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Caudal block is frequently performed to provide analgesia for hypospadias repair. Literature suggests that pudendal block provides prolonged postoperative analgesia as compared with caudal block in children between 2 and 5 years. We compared the efficacy of pudendal and caudal blocks in children less than 2 years.

Methods

60 children scheduled for hypospadias repair received standard general anesthesia along with either pudendal or caudal block (groups of 30 each). Variables collected were demographic data, block time, operating room time, intraoperative pain medication need, pain assessment score and medication need in the recovery room and pain assessment at home.

Result

Groups were demographically similar. No differences were observed in the following recorded times (minutes): block procedure (caudal: 9.5±4.0, pudendal: 10.6±4.1, p=0.30), anesthesia (caudal: 17.3±5.3, pudendal: 17.7±4.3, p=0.75), total OR (caudal: 171±35, pudendal: 172±41; p=0.95) and postanesthesia care unit (PACU) stay (caudal: 88±37, pudendal: 86±42; p=0.80). Additionally, no differences were observed in rescue pain medication need in the operating room (caudal: 0, pudendal: 2 (p=0.49), in PACU (caudal: 4, pudendal: 4, p=0.99), pain assessed at home, time to pain level 2 (caudal: 13.93±8.9, pudendal: 15.17±8.7), average pain scores (p=0.67) and total pain free epochs (pain level of zero) (p=0.80) in the first 24 hours.

Discussion

In children less than 2 years, both blocks provide comparable intraoperative and postoperative pain relief in the first 24 hours after hypospadias surgery.

Trial registration number

NCT03145415.
HER2 induces cell scattering and invasion through ∆Np63α and E-cadherin
Authors: Liang Shan , Tang Xiaoqing , Ye Tengqing , Xiang Wei
Published: September 2022

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer constitutes approximately 30% of human breast cancers and is associated with poor outcomes. ∆Np63 is considered a metastasis inhibitor involved with cancer progression. This study aimed to clarify the roles and mechanisms of HER2 and ∆Np63 on scattering and invasion of MCF10A cells. Wild-type or mutant HER2 was cloned and transfected into MCF10A cells. Cell counting and transwell assays were applied to unveil the impact of HER2 upregulation and mutation on proliferation, cell scattering, and invasion. Western blotting and cell accounting were used to investigate the roles of ∆Np63 and p27. In vivo lung colonization assay was used to reveal the influences of HER2 and ∆Np63a on tumor metastasis. The results indicated HER2 remarkably enhanced cell proliferation, invasion, and scattering. Overexpression of either ΔNp63 or E-cadherin led to attenuated HER2-mediated regulation of cell migration, invasion, and scattering. Furthermore, we confirmed that HER2 enhanced cell proliferation but not migration through p27 and independent ∆Np63a. The results revealed that ∆Np63α contributed to the inhibition of HER2-induced metastasis. Collectively, our findings may further our understanding of the regulation of tumor progression and metastasis.
Monopoles, exotic states and muon $$g-2$$ in TeV scale trinification
Authors: Raut Digesh , Shafi Qaisar , Thapa Anil
Published: September 2022

We study the low energy implications of a trinification model based on the gauge symmetry $$G= SU(3)_c \times SU(3)_L \times SU(3)_R$$

G
=
S
U

(
3
)

c

×
S
U

(
3
)

L

×
S
U

(
3
)

R

, without imposing gauge coupling unification. A minimal model requires two Higgs multiplets that reside in the bi-fundamental representation of G, and this is shown to be adequate for accommodating the Standard Model (SM) fermion masses and generate, via loop corrections and seesaw mechanism, suitable masses for the heavy neutral leptons as well as the observed SM neutrinos. We estimate a lower bound of around 15 TeV for the masses of the new down- type quarks that are required by the $$SU(3)_L \times SU(3)_R$$

S
U

(
3
)

L

×
S
U

(
3
)

R

symmetry. We examine the resonant production at the LHC of the new gauge bosons, which leads to a lower bound of 16 TeV for the symmetry breaking scale of G. We also show how the muon $$g-2$$

g
-
2

anomaly can be resolved in the presence of these new gauge bosons and the heavy charged leptons present in the model. Finally, the model predicts the presence of a topologically stable monopole carrying three quanta $$(6 \pi /e)$$

(
6
π
/
e
)

of Dirac magnetic charge and mass $$\gtrsim 160$$

≳
160

 TeV. If new matter fields lying in the fundamental representations of G are included, the model predicts the presence of exotic leptons, mesons and baryons carrying fractional electric charges such as $$\pm e/3$$

±
e
/
3

and $$\pm 2e/3$$

±
2
e
/
3

, fully compatible with the Dirac quantization condition.