bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic ESG exposure and stock returns: Evidence from the United States during the 1991–2019 period
Authors: Karoui Aymen , Nguyen Duc Khuong
Published: April 2022

Using a sample of US stocks over the period 1991–2019, we test whether stocks with high exposure to a social index exhibit high returns. Using a univariate analysis, our in‐sample results show that stocks with high sensitivities to the MSCI KLD 400 Social Index underperform stocks with low sensitivities by an annual risk‐adjusted performance of 7.02%. The negative premium is also larger in the post‐crisis period of 2007–2019 and is equal to 10.25%. The out‐of‐sample results offer, however, only weak evidence of such a finding, with a risk‐adjusted performance difference of merely −0.84% over the full sample period and no significant differences between the pre‐crisis and post‐crisis periods. In the multivariate regression, we find evidence of a negative relationship between exposure to the social index and stock performance. Moreover, we find that stocks with high exposure to the social index display a low corporate social responsibility score, a high Tobin’s Q, high long‐term debt, a large size, high total risk, a high market beta, a high SMB coefficient, a low HML coefficient, and a small MOM coefficient.
In vitro effects of thirty‐eight cardiac drugs on human serum paraoxonase
Authors: Argan Onur , Cikrikci Kubra , Uslu Harun , Gencer Nahit
Published: April 2022

In this study, the effects of 38 commonly used cardiac drugs on the human paraoxonase (PON1) were investigated. PON1 was purified from human serum blood by ammonium sulfate precipitation (60%–80%) and hydrophobic interaction chromatography (Sepharose‐4B~L‐tyrosine~1‐napthylamine gel). All of the cardiac drugs inhibited PON1 at the micro molar level. IC50 and Ki values were determined for each drug. The tested drugs displayed potent PON1 inhibitory activity. It was found that the weakest PON1 inhibitors are Irbesartan (Ki: 421.73 µM), Glyceryl Trinitrate (Ki: 351.48 µM), and Apixaban (Ki: 333.27 µM). Bisoprolol hemifumarate (Ki: 269.31 µM) is also other weak PON1 inhibitor. Therefore, these drugs, having weak PON1 inhibitory activity, may be preferred primarily in patients with atheroclerotic heart disease compared to other drugs due

to the protective effect of PON1 on atherosclerosis. Conversely, the most potent inhibitors against PON1 were propafenone (Ki: 0.35 µM), Lacidipine (Ki: 0.78 µM), Lidocaine HCl (Ki: 1.78 µM), and Propranolol (Ki: 1.86 µM). Molecular docking was also applied to confirm the activity of some cardiac drugs on PON1.
Predictors of renal impairment and proteinuria after commencement of antiretroviral therapy in a Zimbabwean HIV cohort
Authors: Drak Douglas , Heron Jack E. , Shamu Tinei , Chimbetete Cleophas , Dahwa Rumbi , Gracey David M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Renal disease prevalence varies widely amongst reported cohorts of people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in sub‐Saharan Africa. Renal function testing is not routine in those commencing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the region, however. Further data on renal disease prevalence and the change associated with ART use are therefore needed.

Aim

To explore changes in renal function and associated predictors after 1 year of ART in an adult cohort of PLWHIV from Zimbabwe.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients who attended the Newlands Clinic between January 2007 and September 2019. Eligible patients were aged ≥18 years and had measures of serum creatinine at baseline and after 1 year of ART. Predictors of renal function change were assessed by multiple linear regression.

Results

1729 patients were eligible for inclusion. Median age was 36 years (IQR 30–43) and 62.8% were female. After 1 year of ART, the proportion of patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min/1.732 did not significantly change (2.0% vs. 1.2%; p = 0.094), but there was a decrease in the proportion of patients with proteinuria (11.0% vs. 5.6%; p < 0.001). Hypertension (B = −6.43; 95% CI −8.97 to −3.89; p < 0.001) and baseline proteinuria (B = −7.33; 95% CI −10.25 to −4.42; p < 0.001) were negative predictors of change in eGFR from baseline, whereas diabetes status was not associated (p = 0.476).

Conclusion

Proteinuria was common, but its prevalence halved after 1 year of ART. Screening for hypertension could be a simple way to identify patients at risk of renal function decline.
A model for early failure prediction of blood pressure measurement devices in a stepped validation approach
Authors: Vischer Annina S. , Dutilh Gilles , Socrates Thenral , Burkard Thilo
Published: April 2022

Blood pressure monitoring (BPM) devices have to be validated according to strict international validation protocols. Each protocol requests a specific number of participants to be included. All protocols use vast amounts of resources, as three people have to be present for every measurement, making trials costly, especially when the manufacturer has no intention to execute a validation study, reflected in the low share of validated in the commercially available BPM devices. The aim of our study was to develop criteria, which could detect low accuracy devices that could not pass a validation protocol early in the course of the validation process. The 2010 European Society of Hypertension International Protocol (ESH‐IP) and the Universal Standard for Validation of BPM devices (AAMI/ESH/ISO) were scrutinized for criteria which can be used for preclusion of passing. Based on this, we developed a fail model. We found that a BPM device cannot pass the ESH‐IP protocol, if there are ≥27, 13, or 4 single measurements differing more than 5, 10, or 15 mmHg, respectively, from the reference. For the AAMI/ESH/ISO protocol, we developed a model, which calculates best‐case standard deviations (SDs) to detect SDs which would prevent the passing of the protocol before its completion, making a stepwise validation process possible. In conclusion, we found that our model is able to predict failure of low‐accuracy BPM devices early during a validation protocol if used in a stepwise‐approach. This can be useful to keep costs of validation studies low and to enable investigator‐initiated trials.
Analysis of necroptosis and its association with pyroptosis in organ damage in experimental pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Jarabicová Izabela , Horváth Csaba , Veľasová Eva , Bies Piváčková Lenka , Vetešková Jana , Klimas Ján , Křenek Peter , Adameová Adriana
Published: April 2022

In this study, a role of cell loss due to necroptosis and its linkage with pyroptosis in organ damage under the conditions of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was examined. Monocrotaline (MCT) was used to induce PAH in Wistar rats, and depending on the severity of the disease progression, they were further divided into two subgroups: MCT group—sacrificed 4 weeks after MCT administration and ptMCT group—prematurely sacrificed due to rapid deterioration in vital functions (on Day 24,11 ± 0,7). The elevation of respiratory rate and right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy were more evident in ptMCT group, while the heart rate and cardiac haemodynamic stress markers were comparably higher in both diseased groups. Detailed immunoblotting analysis revealed that the upregulation of pThr231/Ser232‐RIP3 proceeded into necroptosis execution in the RVs, unlike in the lungs of both PAH stages. The elevated pulmonary pThr231/Ser232‐RIP3 levels in both PAH subgroups were associated rather with GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis. On the contrary, other inflammasome forms, such as AIM2 and NLRC4, were higher in the RV, unlike in the lungs, of diseased groups. The PAH‐induced increase in the plasma RIP3 levels was more pronounced in ptMCT group, and positively correlated with RV hypertrophy, but not with haemodynamic stress. Taken together, we indicated for the first time that pThr231/Ser232‐RIP3 upregulation resulting in two different necrosis‐like cell death modes might underlie the pathomechanisms of PAH and that the plasma RIP3 might serve as an additional diagnostic and prognostic marker of cardiac injury under these conditions.
Diagnosis, management, and outcome of urethral obstruction secondary to the capsule associated with the artificial urethral sphincter device
Authors: Kopecny Lucy , Palm Carrie A. , Culp William T. N.
Published: April 2022

Background

Urethral obstruction secondary to artificial urethral sphincter (AUS) implantation is a recognized complication in dogs. However, urethral obstruction secondary to AUS‐associated capsule formation has been described rarely.

Hypothesis

Describe clinical and diagnostic findings, management, and outcome in 6 dogs with urethral obstruction secondary to AUS‐associated capsule formation.

Animals

Six client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Retrospective study. Medical records between January 1, 2010, and June 30, 2021, were reviewed to identify dogs with urethral obstruction associated with the AUS device.

Results

The AUS device was implanted a median of 884 days (range, 20‐2457 days) before presentation for urethral obstruction. Median age at time of urethral obstruction was 4.7 years (range, 3.1‐8.7 years). Clinical signs at the time of urethral obstruction were stranguria (n = 4), pollakiuria (3), weak urine stream (2), and worsened urinary incontinence (1). In all dogs, the urethra was noted to be stenotic during urethroscopy and positive contrast cystourethrography. All dogs underwent surgery, and a fibrous capsule associated with the AUS was found to be causing urethral stenosis. Resolution of urethral obstruction occurred in all dogs after transection or removal of the capsule. Positive bacterial cultures were obtained from the capsule, AUS, or both in all dogs. Recurrence of urethral obstruction had not occurred in any dog at the time of follow‐up.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Urethral obstruction secondary to capsule formation is an uncommon but clinically important complication associated with use of the AUS. Continued investigation is needed to evaluate this complication more thoroughly, and its possible association with infection.
The effect of manganese and iron on mediating resuscitation of lactic acid-injured Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhang H.C. , Zhang R. , Shi H.
Published: April 2022

Lactic acid can induce sublethal injury of E. coli through oxidative stress. In this study, we investigated changes in SOD activity, CAT activity, GSH production and ROS production during sublethal injury and resuscitation of E. coli. Then, the effect of manganese and iron during resuscitation were studied. Both cations (≥1 mmol l−1) significantly promoted the resuscitation of sublethally injured E. coli induced by lactic acid and shortened the repair time (P < 0·05). Conversely, addition of N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis (2-pyridylmethyl) which is a metal chelator extended the repair time. Compared with minA, manganese and iron significantly improved SOD activity at 40, 80 and 120 min and decreased ROS production at 40 and 80 min, thereby recovering injured E. coli quickly (P < 0·05). The deletion of sodA encoding Mn-SOD, sodB encoding Fe-SOD or gshA/gshB encoding GSH significantly strengthened sublethal injury and extended the repair time (P < 0·05). It meant these genes-related oxidative stress played important roles in the acid resistance of E. coli and recovery of sublethal injury. Therefore, manganese and iron can promote the recovery of lactic-injured E. coli by the way of increasing SOD activity, scavenging ROS, and relieving oxidative stress.
Peritoneal dialysis first policy in Hong Kong for 35 years: Global impact
Authors: Li Philip Kam‐Tao , Lu Wanhong , Mak Siu‐Ka , Boudville Neil , Yu Xueqing , Wu Ming Ju , Cheng Yuk‐Lun , Chan Christopher T. , Goh Bak Leong , Tian Na , Chow Kai Ming , Lui Sing Leung , Lo Wai Kei
Published: April 2022

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) first policy has been established in Hong Kong since 1985. After 35 years of practice, the PD first policy in Hong Kong has influenced many countries around the world including governments, health ministries, nephrologists and renal nurses on the overall health policy structure and clinical practice in treating kidney failure patients using PD as an important dialysis modality. In 2021, the International Association of Chinese Nephrologists and the Hong Kong Society of Nephrology jointly held a symposium celebrating the 35 years of PD first policy in Hong Kong. In that symposium, experts and opinion leaders from around the world have shared their perspectives on how the PD first policy has grown and how it has affected PD and home dialysis practice globally. The advantages of PD during COVID‐19 pandemic were highlighted and the use of telemedicine as an important adjunct was discussed in treating kidney failure patients to improve the overall quality of care. Barriers to PD and the need for sustainability of PD first policy were also emphasized. Overall, the knowledge awareness of PD as a home dialysis for patients, families, care providers and learners is a prerequisite for the success of PD first. A critical mass of PD regional hubs is needed for training and mentorship. Importantly, the alignment of policy and clinical goals are enablers of PD first program.
Pictograms are more effective than verbal descriptors in Spanish for bloating and distension
Authors: Rábago Ruth , Bonilla Alejandro , Escamilla‐Diego Ernesto , Higuera de la Tijera María Fátima , Schmulson Max
Published: April 2022

Background

There is no translation for bloating in Spanish, and distension is very technical.

Aims

To evaluate pictograms for assessing bloating/distension in patients with general gastroenterology (Study 1, n = 88) and in those with irritable bowel syndrome [IBS] (Study 2: n = 144), and to correlate them with verbal descriptors (VDs) and physician's diagnosis (PDx).

Methods

Patients answered the Rome III Questionnaire with VDs and pictograms, and were consulted by two gastroenterology fellows (PDx). Correlations were conducted with Cohen's kappa, and ROC curves were used to contrast pictograms and VDs with PDx.

Results

“Inflammation” was the most frequent VDs, while distension was commonly interpreted as a sensation (“inflammation”) and/or increased abdominal girth. In patients not reporting bloating/distension with VDs, pictograms detected these symptoms in (Study 1 and Study 2) 82.2 and 89.6% of patients. In addition, pictograms showed a positive agreement with PDx, kappa: 0.63 (p < 0.0001) and 0.8 (p < 0.0001); and a negative agreement with VD, kappa: −0.45 (p = 0.05) and −0.1 (p = 0.2), respectively, in studies 1 and 2. Pictograms were more sensitive and specific than VDs (Study 1: ROC = 0.90 (95% CI: 0.80–0.96), p < 0.0001 versus 0.74 (0.62–0.88), p < 0.0001; Study 2: 0.99 (0.98–1.00), p = 0.004 versus 0.32 (0.10‐0.54), p = 0.294).

Conclusions

Pictograms are more effective than Spanish VDs for bloating/distension in patients consulting for gastroenterology problems and those with IBS, supporting their usefulness in the clinic and research studies.
Spatial origin of the extracellular ATP‐induced cytosolic calcium signature in Arabidopsis thaliana roots: wave formation and variation with phosphate nutrition
Authors: Matthus E. , Wilkins K. A. , Mohammad‐Sidik A. , Ning Y. , Davies J. M.
Published: April 2022

Extracellular ATP (eATP) increases cytosolic free calcium ([Ca2+]cyt) as a specific second messenger ‘signature’ through the plasma membrane DORN1/P2K1 receptor. Previous studies revealed a biphasic signature in Arabidopsis thaliana roots that is altered by inorganic phosphate (Pi) deprivation. The relationship between the two phases of the signature and possible wave formation have been tested as a function of Pi nutrition.

The bioluminescent aequorin and intensiometric GCaMP3 reporters were used to resolve the spatial origin of the eATP [Ca2+]cyt signature in Arabidopsis root tips. Application of eATP only to the root apex allowed [Ca2+]cyt wave resolution without the confounding effects of eATP delivery by superfusion.

The first apical millimetre of the root generates the first [Ca2+]cyt increase by eATP, regardless of nutritional status. The second increase occurs sub‐apically in the root hair zone, has some autonomy and is significantly reduced in Pi‐starved roots. A significant component of the Pi‐replete signature does not require DORN1/P2K1, but Pi‐starved roots appear to have an absolute requirement for that receptor. Application of eATP specifically to the root apex provides evidence for cell‐to‐cell propagation of a [Ca2+]cyt wave that diminishes sub‐apically.

The apex maintains a robust [Ca2+]cyt increase (even under Pi starvation) that is the basis of a propagative wave, with implications for the ability of the root’s eATP signalling systems to signal systemically. Partial autonomy of the sub‐apical region may be relevant to the perception of eATP from microbes. eATP‐induced [Ca2+]cyt increase may not have always have an obligate requirement for DORN1/P2K1.
Imagined paralysis reduces motor cortex excitability
Authors: Hartmann Matthias , Falconer Caroline J. , Kaelin‐Lang Alain , Müri René M. , Mast Fred W.
Published: April 2022

Mental imagery is a powerful capability that engages similar neurophysiological processes that underlie real sensory and motor experiences. Previous studies show that motor cortical excitability can increase during mental imagery of actions. In this study, we focused on possible inhibitory effects of mental imagery on motor functions. We assessed whether imagined arm paralysis modulates motor cortical excitability in healthy participants, as measured by motor evoked potentials (MEPs) of the hand induced by near‐threshold transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over the primary motor cortex hand area. We found lower MEP amplitudes during imagined arm paralysis when compared to imagined leg paralysis or baseline stimulation without paralysis imagery. These results show that purely imagined bodily constraints can selectively inhibit basic motor corticospinal functions. The results are discussed in the context of motoric embodiment/disembodiment.
Identification of the novel HLA‐DPB1*1289:01 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Wang Xiaojing , Wang Jiying , Zhang Yan , Li Qinghua
Published: April 2022

HLA‐DPB1*1289:01 differs from HLA‐DPB1*05:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 194 in exon 4.
Machine Learning Assisted Analysis of an Ammonia Engine Performance
Authors: Liu Zhentao , Liu Jinlong
Published: April 2022

Currently, the interest in utilizing ammonia in internal combustion engines stems from the trend toward decarbonization, as ammonia is a zero-carbon footprint fuel. Existing studies on ammonia engines are limited and most of the available literature mainly considers the application of ammonia in gasoline converted engines. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to increase the knowledge of diesel engines modified for dedicated ammonia operation. A spark plug was added to the original compression ignition engine to control and initiate the ammonia combustion process. The available experimental results of such a modified engine including noise and the test conditions were randomly distributed without careful design. As a result, the machine learning model was utilized to assist in analyzing the ammonia engine performance by reducing the experimental uncertainty. The results showed that the random forest algorithm suffered from boundary underfitting, while the gradient boosting regression trees algorithm encountered overfitting problems. Moreover, the artificial neural network algorithm performed better than support vector regression, effectively learning the relationship between engine control variables and the ammonia engine performance. The parametric studies conducted by the well-trained machine learning model suggested that the combustion law of heavy-duty ammonia engines was consistent with that of traditional spark ignition engines. Most importantly, the regular compression ratio of diesel engines allowed efficient dedicated ammonia combustion with an equivalence ratio as lean as 0.7 despite the slow laminar flame speed of ammonia–air mixtures. Furthermore, a compression ratio of 18 contributed to optimal spark timing at 8 crank angle deg before top dead center when operated at stoichiometry, rather than a very large spark advance, which was favorable for engine control. Overall, the conversion of compression ignition engines to ammonia spark ignition operation is promising.
Vacuum control system for the Space Plasma Environment Research Facility
Authors: Jin Chenggang , Zhang Yongqi , Ling Wenbin , Liu Manxing , E Peng , Chen Chunxi , Li Yunxuan , Peng Zhiyong , Lu Yaowen , Li Liyi
Published: April 2022

The Space Plasma Environment Research Facility (SPERF) is a ground simulation user facility for studying the space plasma physical processes. This study presents the design and construction of a vacuum control system for the SPERF to set up an appropriate vacuum environment for plasma experiments, including the terrestrial space and near space vacuum control systems. Based on the requirements of remote automation, distributed control, centralized management, high reliability, expansibility, and safety, the architecture of the vacuum control system has been divided into three levels. Among these, the local level is the most essential part of the control system, which adopts the programmable logical controller (PLC) with Siemens S7-1500 CPU as the core. The PLC supports multiple communication protocols and can accurately control and monitor the actuators in the process of establishing a vacuum environment. Furthermore, it has the ability to communicate and interact with remote upper computers and the central control system through the supervisory control and data acquisition (scada) software developed based on iFix. Based on the architecture of the vacuum control system, the control process for establishing the vacuum environment, including the ultimate vacuum and experimental vacuum, was designed. It is noteworthy that in experimental vacuum acquisition, the injection of working fluid gas is controlled directly by the central control system, considering the different requirements of the terrestrial space and near space systems for the experimental working pressure and flexibility of the experimental vacuum control. The vacuum control system designed in this study provides technical support for the SPERF to perform the plasma experiments successfully. In addition, it offers reference and insights for the design of vacuum control systems in similar large-scale plasma simulation facilities.
Circadian regulation of protein cargo in extracellular vesicles
Authors: Yeung Ching-Yan Chloé , Dondelinger Frank , Schoof Erwin M. , Georg Birgitte , Lu Yinhui , Zheng Zhiyong , Zhang Jingdong , Hannibal Jens , Fahrenkrug Jan , Kjaer Michael
Published: April 2022

The circadian clock controls many aspects of physiology, but it remains undescribed whether extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, involved in cell-cell communications between tissues are regulated in a circadian pattern. We demonstrate a 24-hour rhythmic abundance of individual proteins in small EVs using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry in circadian-synchronized tendon fibroblasts. Furthermore, the release of small EVs enriched in RNA binding proteins was temporally separated from those enriched in cytoskeletal and matrix proteins, which peaked during the end of the light phase. Last, we targeted the protein sorting mechanism in the exosome biogenesis pathway and established (by knockdown of circadian-regulated flotillin-1) that matrix metalloproteinase 14 abundance in tendon fibroblast small EVs is under flotillin-1 regulation. In conclusion, we have identified proteomic time signatures for small EVs released by tendon fibroblasts, which supports the view that the circadian clock regulates protein cargo in EVs involved in cell-cell cross-talk.
Ferromagnetism and exchange bias in compressed ilmenite-hematite solid solution as a source of planetary magnetic anomalies
Authors: Ohara Satoshi , Naka Takashi , Hashishin Takeshi
Published: April 2022

We propose a compressed ilmenite-hematite solid solution as a new potential source of Earth’s magnetic anomalies. The 0.5FeTiO
3
·0.5Fe
2
O
3
solid solution compressed by collision synthesis with super-high-energy ball milling showed a decrease in molar volume of approximately 1.8%. Consequently, the sample showed a saturation magnetization of 1.5 ampere square meter per kilogram (Am
2
/kg) at 300 kelvin, a Curie temperature of 990 kelvin, and a magnetic exchange bias below 100 kelvin, e.g., 1.7 × 10
5
ampere per meter at 60 kelvin. Ilmenite-hematite solid solutions are common mineral systems in most mafic igneous and metamorphic rocks, and the compressive force in the rocks is generated by the high pressure in the upper mantle or by shock events with high pressure such as the collision of these rocks with meteorites. Therefore, we consider that the compressed ilmenite-hematite solid solution is an additional candidate source of other planetary magnetic anomalies including those in the Moon and Earth.
Mutation of SLC7A14 causes auditory neuropathy and retinitis pigmentosa mediated by lysosomal dysfunction
Authors: Giffen Kimberlee P. , Li Yi , Liu Huizhan , Zhao Xiao-Chang , Zhang Chang-Jun , Shen Ren-Juan , Wang Tianying , Janesick Amanda , Chen Bo-Bei , Gong Shu-Sheng , Kachar Bechara , Jin Zi-Bing , He David Z.
Published: April 2022

Lysosomes contribute to cellular homeostasis via processes including macromolecule degradation, nutrient sensing, and autophagy. Defective proteins related to lysosomal macromolecule catabolism are known to cause a range of lysosomal storage diseases; however, it is unclear whether mutations in proteins involved in homeostatic nutrient sensing mechanisms cause syndromic sensory disease. Here, we show that SLC7A14, a transporter protein mediating lysosomal uptake of cationic amino acids, is evolutionarily conserved in vertebrate mechanosensory hair cells and highly expressed in lysosomes of mammalian cochlear inner hair cells (IHCs) and retinal photoreceptors. Autosomal recessive mutation of
SLC7A14
caused loss of IHCs and photoreceptors, leading to presynaptic auditory neuropathy and retinitis pigmentosa in mice and humans. Loss-of-function mutation altered protein trafficking and increased basal autophagy, leading to progressive cell degeneration. This study implicates autophagy-lysosomal dysfunction in syndromic hearing and vision loss in mice and humans.
Single-molecule, quantitative detection of low-abundance somatic mutations by high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Maslov Alexander Y. , Makhortov Sergey , Sun Shixiang , Heid Johanna , Dong Xiao , Lee Moonsook , Vijg Jan
Published: April 2022

Postzygotic somatic mutations have been found associated with human disease, including diseases other than cancer. Most information on somatic mutations has come from studying clonally amplified mutant cells, based on a growth advantage or genetic drift. However, almost all somatic mutations are unique for each cell, and the quantitative analysis of these low-abundance mutations in normal tissues remains a major challenge in biology. Here, we introduce single-molecule mutation sequencing (SMM-seq), a novel approach for quantitative identification of point mutations in normal cells and tissues.
COVID-19 in low-tolerance border quarantine systems: Impact of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Zachreson Cameron , Shearer Freya M. , Price David J. , Lydeamore Michael J. , McVernon Jodie , McCaw James , Geard Nicholas
Published: April 2022

In controlling transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the effectiveness of border quarantine strategies is a key concern for jurisdictions in which the local prevalence of disease and immunity is low. In settings like this such as China, Australia, and New Zealand, rare outbreak events can lead to escalating epidemics and trigger the imposition of large-scale lockdown policies. Here, we develop and apply an individual-based model of COVID-19 to simulate case importation from managed quarantine under various vaccination scenarios. We then use the output of the individual-based model as input to a branching process model to assess community transmission risk. For parameters corresponding to the Delta variant, our results demonstrate that vaccination effectively counteracts the pathogen’s increased infectiousness. To prevent outbreaks, heightened vaccination in border quarantine systems must be combined with mass vaccination. The ultimate success of these programs will depend sensitively on the efficacy of vaccines against viral transmission.
U-Pb zircon ages and Sm-Nd isotopic data from the Cobequid Highlands, Nova Scotia, Canada: New contributions to understanding the Neoproterozoic geologic history of Avalonia
Authors: White Chris E. , Barr Sandra M. , Crowley James L. , van Rooyen Deanne , MacHattie* Trevor G.
Published: April 2022

Forty-three new U-Pb zircon ages from metasedimentary and igneous rock units throughout the Cobequid Highlands of northern mainland Nova Scotia, Canada, provide new insights into the Neoproterozoic evolution of this long-enigmatic part of Avalonia in the northern Appalachian orogen. Contrasts in ages and rock types resulted in the identification of fault-bounded Neoproterozoic assemblages of units forming the Bass River, Jeffers, and Mount Ephraim blocks. In the Bass River block, quartzite, metawacke, and minor calc-silicate rocks and marble (Gamble Brook Formation) with a maximum depositional age of 945 ± 12 Ma are associated with subaqueous mafic volcanic rocks, siltstone, and ironstone (Folly River Formation) and intruded by 615–600 Ma calc-alkalic subduction-related dioritic to granitic rocks of the Bass River plutonic suite. The contrasting Jeffers block forms most of the Cobequid Highlands and consists mainly of intermediate to felsic volcanic, epiclastic, and minor plutonic rocks. The western and eastern areas of that block yielded ages mainly ca. 607–592 Ma for both volcanic and plutonic rocks, whereas the central area has ages of ca. 630–625 Ma from both volcanic and plutonic rocks and inheritance in overlying Devonian conglomerate. The Mount Ephraim block forms the eastern part of the highlands and includes possible ca. 800 Ma quartzofeldspathic, semipelitic and pelitic gneiss and schist of the Mount Thom Formation, ca. 752 Ma volcanic arc rocks of the Dalhousie Mountain Formation and related 752–730 Ma gabbroic/dioritic to granitic plutons of the Mount Ephraim plutonic suite and Six Mile Brook pluton, as well as ca. 631 Ma granitoid rocks of the Gunshot Brook pluton. The pre–750 Ma high-grade regional metamorphism and deformation and 752–730 Ma subduction-related magmatism recorded in the Mount Ephraim block were previously unrecognized in Avalonia. Evidence from zircon inheritance and Sm-Nd isotopic data in igneous units suggests linkages among these now-separate areas, and comparison with other parts of Avalonia in the northern Appalachian orogen suggests similarity to southeastern New England.
From Indigenization to Sovereignization: How the Disintegration of the Soviet Union Was Prepared
Authors: Mironov B. N.
Published: April 2022

Having analyzed the unique statistical material of the 20th century, the author examines the national composition of the USSR institutions of governance: executive, legislative, and judicial authorities, the CPSU apparatus at the level of the highest authorities of the Soviet Union; and republican and local institutions, as well as in the army and law enforcement bodies. According to the author, since the 1930s, there has been a gradual displacement of Russians and their replacement with representatives of the “titular nations” in all the union republics, which turned the USSR federal structure into the “cradle” of new states that appeared on the ruins of the Soviet Union.
“Industrial Revolution” as an Element of the Soviet Project (Based on the Materials of the Soviet Aviation Industry)
Authors: Mukhin M. Yu.
Published: April 2022

The author examines a combination of factors that influenced the formation of high-tech production in the former Soviet Union. The complex processes related to the provision of the domestic aviation industry with qualified personnel are analyzed. The data on the staffing of the aviation industry during the Great Patriotic War are of particular interest.
On the History of the Entry of Soviet Troops into Afghanistan. Commentary
Authors: Rurikov D. B.
Published: April 2022

The author analyzes in detail the circumstances of the April Revolution in Afghanistan, believing that it was a coup carried out by revolutionary-minded officers of the Afghan army in spring 1987, which predetermined the subsequent entry of Soviet troops in 1979. This event, as the author argues, was completely unexpected not only for the Soviet leadership, but also for the USSR Embassy in Kabul. Relations between the USSR and former Afghan leadership were quite successful. Neither the USSR embassy nor Soviet advisers in various state structures provided assistance to the rebels. However, the course proclaimed by the new leaders of Afghanistan, N.-M. Taraki and Amin towards building socialism, demonstrative orientation towards the USSR, and reliance on its support in combating political opponents turned the Soviet Union into a forced ally of the government led by the PDPA. D.B. Ryurikov explores the gradual escalation of the Soviet–American conflict. In his opinion, a mixture of truthful information and seemingly plausible “bogus stories” from various sources, which led Soviet decision-making bodies to military intervention, assessed the situation and its prospects as very difficult, which led to the entry of a limited Soviet army contingent into Afghanistan.
Complications of dental infections due to diagnostic delay during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Altıntaş Emel
Published: April 2022

We present three cases who presented to the emergency department with severe complications of dental infections: Ludwig’s angina, necrotising fasciitis and peritonsillar abscess. All of our cases presented at the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic, with complications of dental infections. They delayed their dental treatment due to the pandemic. The airway management was difficult in our cases. Their mortality risk increased due to complications. We aimed to draw attention to complicated odontogenic infections which are rarely seen in emergency department in the past, however started to show up increasingly particularly at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Renal cell carcinoma uvula metastasis leading to airway compromise: an unusual site
Authors: Wallace Jennifer , Abelardo Edgardo , Ramachandran Kannan , Prabhu Vinod
Published: April 2022

We present a case report of a gentleman presenting with a globular lesion arising from his uvula. Although elective admission was planned, he presented with airway compromise, and emergency excision was required. The patient had a background of metastatic clear cell renal carcinoma; histology confirmed the uvula lesion as a further secondary deposit. Renal cell carcinoma has a recognised metastatic propensity, but spread to the uvula is rare, with only two previously described cases in the literature. This case is notable for the unusual location of the metastasis, as well as the rapid progression of symptoms, which threatened the airway and necessitated urgent surgical intervention.
Post-COVID-19 syndrome: persistent neuroimaging changes and symptoms 9 months after initial infection
Authors: Grach Stephanie L , Ganesh Ravindra , Messina Steven A , Hurt Ryan T
Published: April 2022

A previously healthy and active middle-aged woman acquired COVID-19 as an occupational exposure with subsequent persistent post-COVID-19 symptoms including headache, dyspnoea on exertion, chest pressure, tachycardia, anosmia, parosmia, persistent myalgia, vertigo, cognitive decline and fatigue. She presented to a tertiary medical centre for further evaluation after 9 months of persistent symptoms and had a largely unremarkable workup with the exception of a persistently elevated monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, blunted cardiovagal response and non-specific scattered areas of low-level hypometabolism at the bilateral frontal, left precuneus, occipital and parietal regions on PET scan.
Mucus fishing syndrome
Authors: Chiew Ryan L. J. , Au Eong Denise T. M. , Au Eong Kah Guan
Published: April 2022

Mucus fishing syndrome is a chronic inflammatory ocular surface condition characterised by repetitive self-extraction of mucous strands from the eye.

A man in his 30s presented with bilateral ocular redness, itch, irritation, tearing and sticky mucoid discharge for 3 months. Examination disclosed bilateral bulbar and tarsal conjunctival injection. Fluorescein staining disclosed a well-circumscribed area of tarsal conjunctival epithelial defect near the inferior lacrimal punctum in both eyes. The patient admitted to a habit of mechanically removing mucus from his eyes several times a day. Demonstration of the mucus extraction process disclosed direct contact of his fingers with the excoriated tarsal conjunctiva in each eye. He was diagnosed with mucus fishing syndrome and his condition resolved within a month after he stopped fishing mucus from his eyes and had a course of topical antibiotics and steroids.

Mucus fishing syndrome is an important diagnostic consideration in patients with chronic conjunctivitis.
Design and validity of an instrument to assess healthcare professionals’ perceptions, behaviour, self-efficacy and attitudes towards evidence-based health practice: I-SABE
Authors: Ruano Arielly Souza Mariano , Motter Fabiane Raquel , Lopes Luciane Cruz
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To develop and validate an instrument to measure Brazilian healthcare professionals’ perceptions, behaviour, self-efficacy and attitudes towards evidence-based health practice.

Design

Validation of an instrument using the Delphi method to ensure content validity and data from a cross-sectional survey to evaluate psychometric characteristics (psychometric sensitivity, factorial validity and reliability).

Setting

National Register of Health Establishments database.

Participants

We included clinical health professionals who were working in the Brazilian public health system.

Results

The Instrument to assess Evidence-Based Health (I-SABE) was constructed with five domains: self-efficacy; behaviour; attitude; results/benefits and knowledge/skills. Content validity was done by 10–12 experts (three rounds). We applied I-SABE to 217 health professionals. Bartlett’s sphericity test and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) index were adequate (χ2=1455.810, p<0.001; KMO=0.847). Considering the factorial loads of the items and the convergence between the Scree Plot and the Kaiser criterion the four domains tested in this analysis, explaining 59.2% of the total variance. The internal consistency varied between the domains: self-efficacy (α=0.76), behaviour (α=0.30), attitudes (α=0.644), results/benefits to the patient (α=0.835).

Conclusions

The results of the psychometric analysis of the I-SABE confirm the good quality of this tool. The I-SABE can be used both in educational activities as well as an assessment tool among healthcare professionals in the Brazilian public health settings.
Comparing effects of obesity treatment with very low energy diet and bariatric surgery after 2 years: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Höskuldsdottir Gudrun , Engström My , Rawshani Araz , Lenér Frida , Wallenius Ville , Fändriks Lars , Mossberg Karin , Eliasson Björn
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To compare long-term effects and complications of medical treatment (MT) of obesity including very low energy diet with bariatric surgery.

Design and setting

This prospective study conducted in a clinical setting recruited individuals with body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m2referred for obesity treatment. Demographic and anthropometric data, laboratory samples, and questionnaire replies were collected at baseline and 2 years.

Participants and interventions

971 individuals were recruited 2015–2017. 382 received MT, 388 Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and 201 sleeve gastrectomy (SG).

Main outcome measures

Primary outcomes included changes in anthropometric measures, metabolic variables and safety. These were analysed using a linear regression model. A logistic regression model was used to analyse composite variables for treatment success (secondary outcomes). A random forest (RF) model was used to examine the importance of 15 clinical domains as predictors for successful treatment.

Results

Two-year data were available for 667 individuals (68.7%). Regarding primary outcomes, the decrease in excess BMI was 27.5%, 82.5% and 70.3% and proportion achieving a weight of >10% was 45.3%, 99.6% and 95.6% for MT, RYGB and SG, respectively (p<0.001). The groups were comparable regarding levels of vitamins, minerals and haemoglobin or safety measures. Likelihood for success (secondary outcome) was higher in the surgical groups (RYGB: OR 5.3 (95% CI 3.9 to 7.2) vs SG: OR 4.3 ((95% CI 3.0 to 6.2)) in reference to MT. Baseline anthropometry had the strongest predictive value for treatment success, according to the RF model.

Conclusions

In clinical practice, bariatric surgery by RYGB or SG is most effective, but meaningful weight loss is achievable by MT with strict caloric restriction and stepwise introduction of a normal diet. All treatments showed positive effects on well-being, cardiovascular risk factors, and levels of vitamins and minerals at 2-year follow-up and groups were similar regarding safety measures.

Trial registration number

NCT03152617.
Head-to-head comparison of 14 prediction models for postoperative delirium in elderly non-ICU patients: an external validation study
Authors: Wong Chung Kwan , van Munster Barbara C , Hatseras Athanasios , Huis in 't Veld Else , van Leeuwen Barbara L , de Rooij Sophia E , Pleijhuis Rick G
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Delirium is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, prolonged hospitalisation and increased healthcare costs. The number of clinical prediction models (CPM) to predict postoperative delirium has increased exponentially. Our goal is to perform a head-to-head comparison of CPMs predicting postoperative delirium in non-intensive care unit (non-ICU) elderly patients to identify the best performing models.

Setting

Single-site university hospital.

Design

Secondary analysis of prospective cohort study.

Participants and inclusion

CPMs published within the timeframe of 1 January 1990 to 1 May 2020 were checked for eligibility (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). For the time period of 1 January 1990 to 1 January 2017, included CPMs were identified in systematic reviews based on prespecified inclusion and exclusion criteria. An extended literature search for original studies was performed independently by two authors, including CPMs published between 1 January 2017 and 1 May 2020. External validation was performed using a surgical cohort consisting of 292 elderly non-ICU patients.

Primary outcome measures

Discrimination, calibration and clinical usefulness.

Results

14 CPMs were eligible for analysis out of 366 full texts reviewed. External validation was previously published for 8/14 (57%) CPMs. C-indices ranged from 0.52 to 0.74, intercepts from −0.02 to 0.34, slopes from −0.74 to 1.96 and scaled Brier from −1.29 to 0.088. Based on predefined criteria, the two best performing models were those of Daiet al(c-index: 0.739; (95% CI: 0.664 to 0.813); intercept: −0.018; slope: 1.96; scaled Brier: 0.049) and Litakeret al(c-index: 0.706 (95% CI: 0.590 to 0.823); intercept: −0.015; slope: 0.995; scaled Brier: 0.088). For the remaining CPMs, model discrimination was considered poor with corresponding c-indices <0.70.

Conclusion

Our head-to-head analysis identified 2 out of 14 CPMs as best-performing models with a fair discrimination and acceptable calibration. Based on our findings, these models might assist physicians in postoperative delirium risk estimation and patient selection for preventive measures.
Prevalence and associated relating factors in patients with hereditary retinal dystrophy: a nationwide population-based study in Taiwan
Authors: Woon Peng Yeong , Chien Jia-Ying , Wang Jen-Hung , Chou Yu-Yau , Lin Mei-Chen , Huang Shun-Ping
Published: April 2022

Objective

To investigate the prevalence, incidence and relating factors that are associated with hereditary retinal dystrophy (HRD) in Taiwan from 2000 to 2013.

Design, setting and participants

This is a nationwide, population-based, retrospective case–control study using National Health Insurance Database. Study groups are patients with HRD as case group; age-matched patients without any diagnosis of HRD as control group. We enrolled 2418 study subjects, of which 403 were HRD patients. Important relating factors such as hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, liver cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease, stroke, hyperlipidaemia, asthma, depression and dementia are also included.

Exposure

Patients diagnosed with HRD were retrieved from National Health Insurance Database.

Main outcomes and measures

OR calculated between the relating factors and HRD for objects and stratified by age and sex group between 2000 and 2013.

Results

Four hundred and three patients were included in the study group and 2015 in the control group. The incidence of HRD was 3.29/100 000, and the prevalence of HRD was 40.5/100 000 persons. The tendency of study group to have more cataract, cystoid macula oedema (CME) as compared with the control group. Among the subgroup with comorbidities, the relating factors such as hypertension, diabetes and chronic kidney disease was significantly higher among HRD patients with age 55 and above.

Conclusions

74% of the diagnosed HRD are retinitis pigmentosa. Population-based data suggested an increased incidence of cataract in younger patients, whereas older HRD patients are more susceptible to develop CME. Further work is needed to elucidate the mechanism between these ophthalmological disorders and HRD.