bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive profiling of serotypes, antimicrobial resistance and virulence of Salmonella isolates from food animals in China, 2015–2021
Authors: Guo Lili , Xiao Tianan , Wu Liqin , Li Yan , Duan Xiaoxiao , Liu Wenhua , Liu Kaidi , Jin Wenjie , Ren Hao , Sun Jian , Liu Yahong , Liao Xiaoping , Zhao Yongda
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Salmonella is a ubiquitous foodborne pathogen and mainly transmitted to human farm-to-fork chain through contaminated foods of animal origin.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the serotypes, antimicrobial resistance and virulence of Salmonella from China.

Results

A total of 617 Salmonella isolates were collected from 4 major food animal species across 23 provi nces in China from 2015-2021. Highest Salmonella prevalence were observed in Guangdong (44.4%) and Sandong (23.7%). Chickens (43.0%) was shown to be the major source of Salmonella contamination, followed by pigs (34.5%) and ducks (18.5%). The number of Salmonella increased significantly from 5.51% to 27.23% during 2015–2020. S. Derby (17.3%), S. Enteritidis (13.1%) and S. Typhimurium (11.4%) were the most common serotypes among 41 serotypes identifiedin this study. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showing that the majority of the Salmonella isolates were resistant to neomycin (99.7%), tetracycline (98.1%), ampicillin (97.4%), sulfadiazine/trimethoprim (97.1%), nalidixic acid (89.1%), doxycycline (83.1%), ceftria xone (70.3%), spectinomycin (67.7%), florfenicol (60.0%), cefotaxime (52.0%) and lomefloxacin (59.8%). The rates of resistance to multiple antibiotics in S. Derby and S.Typhimurium were higher than that in S. Enteritidis. However, the rate of resistance to fosfomycin were observed from higher to lower by S. Derby, S. Enteritidis, and S. Typhimurium. Biofilm formation ability analysis found that 88.49%of the Salmonella were able to produce biofilms, of which 236 Salmonella isolates were strong biofilm producer. Among the 26 types of antibiotics resistance genes (ARGs) were identified in this study, 4 ARGs (tetB,sul2,aadA2, and aph(3’)-IIa) were highly prevalent. In addition, 5 β-lactam resistance genes (blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCMY-2, blaCTX-M, and blaOXA) and 7 quinolone resistance genes (oqxA, oqxB, qnrB, qnrC, qnrD, qnrS, and qeqA) were detected among these isolates. 12 out of 17 virulence genes selected in this study were commonly presented in the chromosomes of tested isolate, with a detection rate of over 80%, including misL, spiA, stn, pagC, iroN, fim, msgA, sopB, prgH, sitC, ttrC, spaN.

Discussion

This study provided a systematical updating on surveillance on prevalence of Salmonella from food animals in China, shedding the light on continued vigilance for Salmonella in food animals.
Efficacy and safety of monoclonal antibody therapy in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Aungsumart Saharat , Youngkong Sitaporn , Dejthevaporn Charungthai , Chaikledkaew Usa , Thadanipon Kunlawat , Tansawet Amarit , Khieukhajee Jedsada , Attia John , McKay Gareth J. , Thakkinstian Ammarin
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a devastating inflammatory CNS demyelinating disease. Two groups of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are used to prevent disease relapse, i.e., Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved mAbs (e.g., eculizumab satralizumab, inebilizumab), and off-label mAb drugs (e.g., rituximab and tocilizumab). The FDA-approved mAbs have high efficacy but more expensive compared to the off-labels, and thus are less accessible. This systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) was to assess the efficacy and safety of both classes of mAbs compared to the current standard treatments.

Methods

Systematically searches were conducted in MEDLINE and SCOPUS from inception until July 2021. Randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) were eligible if they compared any pair of treatments (mAbs, immunosuppressive drugs, or placebo) in adult patients with NMOSD. Studies with AQP4-IgG positive or negative were used in the analysis. Probability of relapse and time to event were extracted from the Kaplan-Meier curves using Digitizer. These data were then converted into individual patient time-to-event data. A one-stage mixed-effect survival model was applied to estimate the median time to relapse and relative treatment effects using hazard ratios (HR). Two-stage NMA was used to determine post-treatment annualized relapse rate (ARR), expanded disability status score (EDSS) change, and serious adverse events (SAE). Risk of bias was assessed using the revised cochrane risk of bias tool.

Results

A total of 7 RCTs with 776 patients were eligible in the NMA. Five of the seven studies were rated low risk of bias. Both FDA-approved and off-label mAbs showed significantly lower risk of relapse than standard treatments, with HR (95% CI) of 0.13 (0.07, 0.24) and 0.16 (0.07, 0.37) respectively. In addition, the FDA-approved mAbs had 20% lower risk of relapse than the off-label mAbs, but this did not reach statistical significance. The ARRs were also lower in FDA-approved and off-label mAbs than the standard treatments with the mean-difference of−0.27 (-0.37,−0.16) and−0.31(-0.46,−0.16), respectively.

Conclusion

The off-label mAbs may be used as the first-line treatment for improving clinical outcomes including disease relapse, ARR, and SAEs for NMOSD in countries where resources and accessibility of the FDA-approved mAbs are limited.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=283424, identifier: CRD42021283424.
Comparative analysis of acoustic therapies for tinnitus treatment based on auditory event-related potentials
Authors: Alonso-Valerdi Luz M. , Ibarra-Zárate David I. , Torres-Torres Alma S. , Zolezzi Daniela M. , Naal-Ruiz Norberto E. , Argüello-García Janet
Published: April 2023

Introduction

So far, Auditory Event-Related Potential (AERP) features have been used to characterize neural activity of patients with tinnitus. However, these EEG patterns could be used to evaluate tinnitus evolution as well. The aim of the present study is to propose a methodology based on AERPs to evaluate the effectiveness of four acoustic therapies for tinnitus treatment.

Methods

The acoustic therapies were: (1) Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT), (2) Auditory Discrimination Therapy (ADT), (3) Therapy for Enriched Acoustic Environment (TEAE), and (4) Binaural Beats Therapy (BBT). In addition, relaxing music was included as a placebo for both: tinnitus sufferers and healthy individuals. To meet this aim, 103 participants were recruited, 53% were females and 47% were males. All the participants were treated for 8 weeks with one of these five sounds, which were moreover tuned in accordance with the acoustic features of their tinnitus (if applied) and hearing loss. They were electroencephalographically monitored before and after their acoustic therapy, and wherefrom AERPs were estimated. The sound effect of acoustic therapies was evaluated by examining the area under the curve of those AERPs. Two parameters were obtained: (1) amplitude and (2) topographical distribution.

Results

The findings of the investigation showed that after an 8-week treatment, TRT and ADT, respectively achieved significant neurophysiological changes over somatosensory and occipital regions. On one hand, TRT increased the tinnitus perception. On the other hand, ADT redirected the tinnitus attention, what in turn diminished the tinnitus perception. Tinnitus handicapped inventory outcomes verified these neurophysiological findings, revealing that 31% of patients in each group reported that TRT increased tinnitus perception, but ADT diminished it.

Discussion

Tinnitus has been identified as a multifactorial condition highly associated with hearing loss, age, sex, marital status, education, and even, employment. However, no conclusive evidence has been found yet. In this study, a significant (but low) correlation was found between tinnitus intensity and right ear hearing loss, left ear hearing loss, heart rate, area under the curve of AERPs, and acoustic therapy. This study raises the possibility to assign acoustic therapies by neurophysiological response of patient.
Spatial integration of dendrites in fast-spiking basket cells
Authors: Liu Ming , Sun Xiaojuan
Published: April 2023

Dendrites of fast-spiking basket cells (FS BCs) impact neural circuit functions in brain with both supralinear and sublinear integration strategies. Diverse spatial synaptic inputs and active properties of dendrites lead to distinct neuronal firing patterns. How the FS BCs with this bi-modal dendritic integration respond to different spatial dispersion of synaptic inputs remains unclear. In this study, we construct a multi-compartmental model of FS BC and analyze neuronal firings following simulated synaptic protocols from fully clustered to fully dispersed. Under these stimulation protocols, we find that supralinear dendrites dominate somatic firing of FS BC, while the preference for dispersing is due to sublinear dendrites. Moreover, we find that dendritic diameter and Ca2+-permeable AMPA conductance play an important role in it, while A-type K+ channel and NMDA conductance have little effect. The obtained results may give some implications for understanding dendritic computation.
Recording plasticity in neuronal activity in the rodent intrinsic cardiac nervous system using calcium imaging techniques
Authors: Smith Joscelin E. G. , Ashton Jesse L. , Argent Liam P. , Cheyne Juliette E. , Montgomery Johanna M.
Published: April 2023

The intrinsic cardiac nervous system (ICNS) is composed of interconnected clusters of neurons called ganglionated plexi (GP) which play a major role in controlling heart rate and rhythm. The function of these neurons is particularly important due to their involvement in cardiac arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation (AF), and previous work has shown that plasticity in GP neural networks could underpin aberrant activity patterns that drive AF. As research in this field increases, developing new techniques to visualize the complex interactions and plasticity in this GP network is essential. In this study we have developed a calcium imaging method enabling the simultaneous recording of plasticity in neuronal activity from multiple neurons in intact atrial GP networks. Calcium imaging was performed with Cal-520 AM labeling in aged spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), which display both spontaneous and induced AF, and age-matched Wistar Kyoto (WKY) controls to determine the relationship between chronic hypertension, arrhythmia and GP calcium dynamics. Our data show that SHR GPs have significantly larger calcium responses to cholinergic stimulation compared to WKY controls, as determined by both higher amplitude and longer duration calcium responses. Responses were significantly but not fully blocked by hexamethonium, indicating multiple cholinergic receptor subtypes are involved in the calcium response. Given that SHRs are susceptible to cardiac arrhythmias, our data provide evidence for a potential link between arrhythmia and plasticity in calcium dynamics that occur not only in cardiomyocytes but also in the GP neurons of the heart.
Comprehensive genomic analysis of hypocholesterolemic probiotic Enterococcus faecium LR13 reveals unique proteins involved in cholesterol-assimilation
Authors: Aswal Manisha , Singhal Neelja , Kumar Manish
Published: April 2023

Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Chemotherapeutic agents for CVDs exhibit several side effects. Specific probiotics with hypocholesterolemic effects can be safe and effective alternatives to chemotherapeutics. Here, we have analyzed and compared the genome of a novel rhizospheric Enterococcus faecium LR13 cholesterol-assimilating probiotic with other probiotic/pathogenic E. faecium strains to discern genetic factors underlying probiotic efficacy and cholesterol-assimilation. Genomic analyses of E. faecium probiotic strains revealed that LR13 and WEFA23 (cholesterol-assimilating probiotics) harbored 21 unique proteins absent in non-cholesterol-assimilating probiotics. Of these, 14 proteins could directly help in cholesterol-assimilation by producing short chain fatty acids, lipid (sterol) transport and membrane stabilization, and bile salt hydrolase activity. This suggests that cholesterol-assimilation is an intrinsic, strain-specific trait exhibited by probiotics with a specific genetic constitution. Moreover, the unique proteins identified in this study can serve as biomarkers for discerning/characterizing cholesterol-assimilating probiotics as novel biotherapeutics against CVDs.
Epigenetic liquid biopsies for minimal residual disease, what’s around the corner?
Authors: Johnston Andrew D. , Ross Jason P. , Ma Chenkai , Fung Kim Y. C. , Locke Warwick J.
Published: April 2023

Liquid biopsy assays for minimal residual disease (MRD) are used to monitor and inform oncological treatment and predict the risk of relapse in cancer patients. To-date, most MRD assay development has focused on targeting somatic mutations. However, epigenetic changes are more frequent and universal than genetic alterations in cancer and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) retains much of these changes. Here, we review the epigenetic signals that can be used to detect MRD, including DNA methylation alterations and fragmentation patterns that differentiate ctDNA from noncancerous circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA). We then summarize the current state of MRD monitoring; highlight the advantages of epigenetics over genetics-based approaches; and discuss the emerging paradigm of assaying both genetic and epigenetic targets to monitor treatment response, detect disease recurrence, and inform adjuvant therapy.
Tumor immune microenvironment of cutaneous angiosarcoma with cancer testis antigens and the formation of tertiary lymphoid structures
Authors: Magara Tetsuya , Nakamura Motoki , Nojiri Yuka , Yoshimitsu Maki , Kano Shinji , Kato Hiroshi , Morita Akimichi
Published: April 2023

Cutaneous angiosarcoma (CAS) is a highly malignant tumor with few effective treatments. Although the indication for immune checkpoint inhibitors such as anti-PD-1 antibodies is expected to expand, there are many unknowns regarding the tumor immune microenvironment in CAS, which is generally considered an immunologically “cold” tumor. Our previous study demonstrated that tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) were associated with a favorable prognosis in CAS. However, we still don’t know what the difference is between cases of TLS-rich and TLS-poor. Furthermore, the number of TLSs can vary significantly between lesions in the same case, for example, between primary and recurrence. To analyze the changes in the tumor immune microenvironment in CAS in more detail, we performed comprehensive RNA sequencing using a Next-generation sequencer (NGS). Sixty-two samples from 31 cases of CAS treated at Nagoya City University were collected. NGS and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed on 15 samples among them. Immunohistochemistry and prognostic analysis by Kaplan-Meier method were performed on all 62 samples. NGS results showed that NY-ESO-1 (CTAG1B) was significantly upregulated in the TLS-positive cases. Immune checkpoint molecules including programmed death-1 (PD-1) and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) were upregulated in TLS-negative or TLS-low cases and seemed to associate with the suppression of TLS formation. In a comparison of primary and recurrent lesions, other cancer-testis antigens (CTAs) including XAGE-1B were significantly upregulated in recurrent lesions. The number of infiltrating CD8-positive cells and TLSs showed no significant trend between primary and recurrent lesions. However, the PD-L1 expression of tumor cells was significantly lower in recurrent than in primary lesions. Chemokines correlated with NY-ESO-1 expression were CCL21 and CXCL8, and only CCL21 correlated with the number of TLS. There was no chemokine associated with XAGE-1. NY-ESO-1 and XAGE-1 are detectable by immunohistochemistry. Although each cannot be a prognostic marker by itself, they can be a helpful marker in combination with the number of TLSs. CTAs play an essential role in forming the tumor immune microenvironment in CAS. These findings are evidence that CAS is an immunologically “hot” tumor and provides us with potential therapeutic targets and encourages the expansion of immunotherapy indications.
Dissecting the roles and clinical potential of YY1 in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Li MengNa , Wei JianXia , Xue ChangNing , Zhou XiangTing , Chen ShiPeng , Zheng LeMei , Duan YuMei , Deng HongYu , Xiong Wei , Tang FaQing , Li GuiYuan , Zhou Ming
Published: April 2023

Yin-Yang 1 (YY1) is a member of the GLI-Kruppel family of zinc finger proteins and plays a vital dual biological role in cancer as an oncogene or a tumor suppressor during tumorigenesis and tumor progression. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is identified as the “soil” of tumor that has a critical role in both tumor growth and metastasis. Many studies have found that YY1 is closely related to the remodeling and regulation of the TME. Herein, we reviewed the expression pattern of YY1 in tumors and summarized the function and mechanism of YY1 in regulating tumor angiogenesis, immune and metabolism. In addition, we discussed the potential value of YY1 in tumor diagnosis and treatment and provided a novel molecular strategy for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of tumors.
The polymorphism rs4705342 in the promoter of miR-143/145 is related to the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer and patient prognosis
Authors: Zhao Jian , Zuo Weiwei , Zhang Yue , He Caiyun , Zhao Wei , Meng Tongyu
Published: April 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effects of two genetic variants in the promoter of the miR-143/145 cluster on the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and the prognosis of EOC patients.

Study design

Genotypes were determined by the polymerase chain reaction and ligase detection reaction method in 563 EOC patients and 576 healthy women. The expression of miR-143 and miR-145 were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR) in fifty-two EOC tissues.

Results

The rs4705342 CC genotype frequencies in EOC patients were higher than those in the controls (P = 0.014). Furthermore, the CC genotype of rs4705342 was associated with an advanced FIGO stage of EOC patients (P = 0.046). Patients with the rs4705342 CC genotype had shorter progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) times than those carrying the TT genotype in multivariable analysis adjusting for clinical variables (HR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.04-1.62, P = 0.020; HR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.05-1.70, P = 0.020). In addition, the miR-145 levels were lower in EOC tissues with the rs4705342 CC genotype than in those with the TT genotype (P = 0.005).

Conclusion

The CC genotype of rs4705342 was related to an increased risk of EOC and poor prognosis of EOC patients, and rs4705342 may serve as a molecular marker for predicting the development of EOC and the clinical outcome of EOC patients.
Myocardial infarction with a preserved ejection fraction—the impaired function of the cardio-renal baroreflex
Authors: Pickny Lisa , Hindermann Martin , Ditting Tilmann , Hilgers Karl F. , Linz Peter , Ott Christian , Schmieder Roland E. , Schiffer Mario , Amann Kerstin , Veelken Roland , Rodionova Kristina
Published: April 2023

Introduction: In experimental myocardial infarction with reduced ejection fraction causing overt congestive heart failure, the control of renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) by the cardio-renal baroreflex was impaired. The afferent vagal nerve activity under these experimental conditions had a lower frequency at saturation than that in controls. Hence, by investigating respective first neurons in the nodose ganglion (NG), we wanted to test the hypothesis that after myocardial infarction with still-preserved ejection fraction, the cardiac afferent nerve pathway is also already impaired.

Material and methods: A myocardial infarction was induced by coronary artery ligature. After 21 days, nodose ganglion neurons with cardiac afferents from rats with myocardial infarction were cultured. A current clamp was used to characterize neurons as “tonic,” i.e., sustained action potential (AP) firing, or “phasic,” i.e., <5 APs upon current injection. Cardiac ejection fraction was measured using echocardiography; RSNA was recorded to evaluate the sensitivity of the cardiopulmonary baroreflex. Renal and cardiac histology was studied for inflammation and fibrosis markers.

Results: A total of 192 neurons were investigated. In rats, after myocardial infarction, the number of neurons with a tonic response pattern increased compared to that in the controls (infarction vs. control: 78.6% vs. 48.5%; z-test, *p < 0.05), with augmented production of APs (23.7 ± 2.86 vs. 15.5 ± 1.86 APs/600 ms; mean ± SEM, t-test, *p < 0.05). The baseline activity of RSNA was subtly increased, and its control by the cardiopulmonary baroreflex was impaired following myocardial infarction: the fibrosis marker collagen I augmented in the renal interstitium.

Discussion: After myocardial infarction with still-preserved ejection fraction, a complex impairment of the afferent limb of the cardio-renal baroreflex caused dysregulation of renal sympathetic nerve activity with signs of renal fibrosis.
The effect of mobile phone task and age on gait: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xinxin , Li Qiang , Gao Pincao , Zhu Jialin , Tuo Haowen , Lin Qihan , Jing Feiyue , Liu Weiguo
Published: April 2023

Objective: Mobile phone usage while performing postural-locomotor tasks is everyday activity across persons of all ages in various environmental contexts and health conditions. However, it is also an important factor contributing to accidents. To lower the risk of pedestrian accidents, this meta-analysis aimed to examine how mobile phones affect pedestrian gait and identify how mobile phone tasks and participant age affect gait differently.

Methods: Electronic database searches were performed in The Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Medline. Two examiners evaluated the eligibility and quality of included studies using the Downs and Black checklist. The mean differences (MD) or standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated for each outcome. Subgroup analyses were used to compare the differential effects of mobile phone task and participant age on gait.

Results: Among 22 eligible studies, 592 participants in 10 countries were analyzed in this meta-analysis. The overall meta-analysis showed that using a mobile phone significantly decreased pedestrian gait velocity (SMD = −1.45; 95% CI: −1.66 to −1.24; p < 0.00001; I2 = 66%), step length (SMD = −1.01; 95% CI: −1.43 to −0.59; p < 0.00001; I2 = 82%), and stride length (SMD = −0.9; 95% CI: −1.19 to −0.60; p < 0.00001; I2 = 79%), significantly increased pedestrian step time (SMD = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.45 to 1.08; p < 0.00001; I2 = 78%), stride time (SMD = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.69 to 1.06; p < 0.00001; I2 = 24%), step width (SMD = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.34 to 1.24; p = 0.0006. I2 = 75%), double support time (SMD = 1.09; 95% CI: 0.86 to 1.31; p < 0.00001; I2 = 42%), and double support (%gait cycle, %GC) (MD = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.75 to 2.88; p < 0.00001; I2 = 26%).

Conclusion: In summary, the effects of mobile phone tasks and participant age on gait were inconsistent. Our study found that resource-intensive tasks (texting and reading) significantly reduced gait velocity, and step time; however, small resource-intensive tasks (calling, talking, and dialing) did not affect these outcomes. In contrast to young adults, step length and step time were not affected by mobile phone use in older adults. Tips: Pedestrians should consider using a mobile phone in their daily lives according to the application scenarios (walking environment, the complexity of mobile phone tasks, pedestrians’ task processing abilities, etc.) as appropriate to avoid dangerous accidents.

Systematic Review Registration: identifier CRD42022358963.
3D segmentation of plant root systems using spatial pyramid pooling and locally adaptive field-of-view inference
Authors: Alle Jonas , Gruber Roland , Wörlein Norbert , Uhlmann Norman , Claußen Joelle , Wittenberg Thomas , Gerth Stefan
Published: April 2023

Background

The non-invasive 3D-imaging and successive 3D-segmentation of plant root systems has gained interest within fundamental plant research and selectively breeding resilient crops. Currently the state of the art consists of computed tomography (CT) scans and reconstruction followed by an adequate 3D-segmentation process.

Challenge

Generating an exact 3D-segmentation of the roots becomes challenging due to inhomogeneous soil composition, as well as high scale variance in the root structures themselves.

Approach

(1) We address the challenge by combining deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) with a weakly supervised learning paradigm. Furthermore, (2) we apply a spatial pyramid pooling (SPP) layer to cope with the scale variance of roots. (3) We generate a fine-tuned training data set with a specialized sub-labeling technique. (4) Finally, to yield fast and high-quality segmentations, we propose a specialized iterative inference algorithm, which locally adapts the field of view (FoV) for the network.

Experiments

We compare our segmentation results against an analytical reference algorithm for root segmentation (RootForce) on a set of roots from Cassava plants and show qualitatively that an increased amount of root voxels and root branches can be segmented.

Results

Our findings show that with the proposed DCNN approach combined with the dynamic inference, much more, and especially fine, root structures can be detected than with a classical analytical reference method.

Conclusion

We show that the application of the proposed DCNN approach leads to better and more robust root segmentation, especially for very small and thin roots.
Do inconsistent mental models impact performance? Moderating effects of managerial interpretation and practice sets
Authors: Zhao Ying , Gao Yuan , Hao XiLing , Ren FangFang
Published: April 2023

Deviant cognition, referring to team members' different understanding of goals or rules, results in inconsistent mental models among the team. Although previous studies have examined the negative effects of inconsistent mental models on deviant behavior and performance in the workplace, they have failed to consider their positive effects and moderating mechanisms, thus limiting our understanding of how to manage inconsistent mental models and deviant cognition. To address this research gap, this study builds on the interpretation and information processing theory, which regards mental models as the result of information processing, especially involving interactions where interpretation of the information is required. The study initially recruited 174 team managers as participants to identify instances of managerial interpretation. The team managers' interpretation modes were then categorized into four types (absorb, shift, limit, and explore), and a questionnaire was developed to measure them. The moderating effects of the modes on execution and innovation performance were also examined. Matched data were then collected from interviews with 104 team managers and 312 of their team members. The regression results showed that absorb, shift, and limit interpretation modes, as well as the practice sets involving managers and members, attenuated the negative relationship between inconsistent mental models and execution performance. The explore interpretation mode and the practice sets enhanced the positive relationship between inconsistent mental models and team innovation. The findings of this study help to understand the cognitive level of deviance in teams and the moderating effects of managerial interpretation on the relationship between deviant cognition, or inconsistent mental models, and performance, suggesting the need to study and utilize the positive roles of inconsistent mental models or deviance through managerial interpretation. The results also call for firms to train managers' interpretation skills and design close working links with team members.
How does multiple sclerosis affect sexual satisfaction in patients' spouses?
Authors: Sedighi Behnaz , Abedini Parizi Maryam , Haghdoost Ali Akbar , Jangipour Afshar Parya , Shoraka Hamid Reza , Jafari Simin
Published: April 2023

Background

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common complaint among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with a significant impact on the quality of life (QoL) of afflicted couples. The purpose of this study was to determine sexual satisfaction (SS) in the spouses of MS patients and its impact on the QoL.

Methods

A total of 214 spouses of MS patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. They completed the Larson Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire and SF-8 Health Survey.

Results

The mean ± SD age of the spouses was 39.8 ± 9.7 years, and the duration of MS was 5 years or less in most of their partners. The mean ± SD score of QoL was 71.0 ± 20.3 (out of 100), and the mean SS score was 89.2 ± 18.6 (out of 125), showing moderate satisfaction. The highest score was among male spouses younger than 40 years old. The SS scores were also lower among female spouses. In the final model, it was found that SD, psychiatric symptoms, cognitive impairment, and the level of disability of patients were independent explanatory factors for the SS of their spouses.

Conclusion

The findings supported the role of SS in the QoL of spouses of MS patients. Therefore, the attention of physicians to this hidden aspect of the life of MS patients is crucial.
Engaging diverse populations in aging research during the COVID-19 pandemic: Lessons learned from four National Institutes of Health funded-Centers
Authors: Vega Irving E. , Ajrouch Kristine J. , Rorai Vanessa , Gadwa Renee , Roberts J. Scott , Nyquist Linda
Published: April 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on our personal and professional lives required a rapid adaptation to the evolving health crisis and accumulating social stresses. Established measures to reduce the spread of infection and potential death had a direct effect on ongoing research that involved older adults and underrepresented racial/ethnic groups. Although important to preserve public health, these measures risk further isolation of vulnerable research participant populations and threatened established community partnerships. To address the social and research challenges evolving from the COVID-19 pandemic, four National Institutes of Health funded-Centers that engage with community members to enhance research and advance the science of aging came together to learn from each other’s efforts, approaches, and communication with community partners.

Methods

Monthly meetings served as a venue to discuss the challenges of engagement with research participants and support community partners during the pandemic. The developed learning community also contributed to recognize and address research staff stress and isolation. We describe how these conversations led our Centers to address unprecedented challenges and sustain community engagement within diverse populations, especially Black/African Americans, Latinos, Middle Eastern/Arab Americans and the oldest-old.

Results

The exchange of information resulted in maintaining long standing community relationships and partnerships in the face of the uncertainties generated by the pandemic. The strategies included adapting education programs to reduce risk of infection, recognizing symptoms, promoting vaccination and understanding of the effect of COVID-19 to the brain. Different strategies were used to address the effects of isolation and maintain community engagement. Although new research participant enrollment was a challenge, telephone and virtual visits allowed research participants to remain active in research. Community members participation in virtual learning events was variable, ranging from a dozen to hundreds of participants. Invitations to organize panels about newly developed topics indicated the need for information from trusted sources.

Conclusion

In sum, the COVID-19 pandemic re - directed all four Centers’ commitment to community service led to developing strategies for social support, which will potentially contribute to transforming public perceptions about research and researchers.
Protection of hybrid immunity against SARS-CoV-2 reinfection and severe COVID-19 during periods of Omicron variant predominance in Mexico
Authors: Montes-González José Antonio , Zaragoza-Jiménez Christian Arturo , Antonio-Villa Neftali Eduardo , Fermín-Martínez Carlos A. , Ramírez-García Daniel , Vargas-Vázquez Arsenio , Gutiérrez-Vargas Rosaura Idania , García-Rodríguez Gabriel , López-Gatell Hugo , Valdés-Ferrer Sergio Iván , Bello-Chavolla Omar Yaxmehen
Published: April 2023

Background

With the widespread transmission of the Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant, reinfections have become increasingly common. Here, we explored the role of immunity, primary infection severity, and variant predominance in the risk of reinfection and severe COVID-19 during Omicron predominance in Mexico.

Methods

We analyzed reinfections in Mexico in individuals with a primary infection separated by at least 90 days from reinfection using a national surveillance registry of SARS-CoV-2 cases from March 3rd, 2020, to August 13th, 2022. Immunity-generating events included primary infection, partial or complete vaccination, and booster vaccines. Reinfections were matched by age and sex with controls with primary SARS-CoV-2 infection and negative RT-PCR or antigen test at least 90 days after primary infection to explore reinfection and severe disease risk factors. We also compared the protective efficacy of heterologous and homologous vaccine boosters against reinfection.

Results

We detected 231,202 SARS-CoV-2 reinfections in Mexico, most occurring in unvaccinated individuals (41.55%). Over 207,623 reinfections occurred during periods of Omicron (89.8%), BA.1 (36.74%), and BA.5 (33.67%) subvariant predominance and a case-fatality rate of 0.22%. Vaccination protected against reinfection, without significant influence of the order of immunity-generating events and provided >90% protection against severe reinfections. Heterologous booster schedules were associated with ~11% and ~ 54% lower risk for reinfection and reinfection-associated severe COVID-19, respectively, modified by time-elapsed since the last immunity-generating event, when compared against complete primary schedules.

Conclusion

SARS-CoV-2 reinfections increased during Omicron predominance. Hybrid immunity provides protection against reinfection and associated severe COVID-19, with potential benefit from heterologous booster schedules.
Detection and removal of emerging contaminants from water bodies: A statistical approach
Authors: Banerjee Anindita , Singh Surjit , Ghosh Atreyi
Published: April 2023

The integration of mathematical modelling in different scientific domains has increased dramatically in recent years. In general, modelling involves using programming languages, manipulating matrices, designing algorithms, and tracking functions and data to gain new insights and more quantitative and qualitative information about systems. These strategies have motivated researchers to investigate numerous approaches to accurately solve a variety of problems. In this direction, modelling and simulation have been used to create sensitive and focused detection methods for a variety of applications, including environmental control. New pollutants, including pesticides, heavy metals, and medications, are endangering wildlife by poisoning water supplies. As a result, numerous biosensors that use modelling for effective environmental monitoring have been documented in the literature. The most current model-inspired biosensors used for environmental monitoring will be discussed in this review study. Additionally, each analytical biosensor’s capabilities and degree of success will be discussed. Finally, present difficulties in this area will be highlighted.
External and internal training load comparison between sided-game drills in professional soccer
Authors: Beato Marco , de Keijzer Kevin L , Costin Andrew J
Published: April 2023

This study aims to quantify and compare the external and internal training load demands of sided-game drills in professional team players during the competitive season. Twenty-four male professional soccer players of the same club were enrolled in this study. Drills were categorized as large-sided games (LSG): 10vs10 (84 × 60 m or 72 × 60 m), Hexagon possession 9vs9 + 3 (36 × 48 m), Possession gate 8vs8 + 2 (36 × 44 m), Possession 7vs7 + 3 (30 × 32 m) or as Small-sided games (SSG): 6vs6 (48 × 42 m), and Possession 6vs4 (30 × 60 m). A total of 7 drills and 279 individual data points were included in this analysis. Distance covered, high-speed running (HSR), and sprinting distance were all calculated in meters per minute (m.min−1) while total accelerations (>3 m.s−2) and total decelerations (− < 3 m.s−2) were calculated in number of actions per minute (n.min−1). All external load was measured with global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) STATSports Apex units. Players’ internal load was quantified using their rating of perceived exertion (RPE). We found that distance covered (p < 0.01, large), HSR (p < 0.01, large), and sprinting distance (p < 0.01, large) changed between drills (e.g., greater in LSG formats), acceleration (p < 0.01, large) and deceleration (p < 0.01, large) demands were greater in smaller formats (e.g., SSG 6vs6, and Possession 6vs4), while RPE was lower in the Possession gate 8vs8 + 2 format (p < 0.01, large). This study found that sided-games can replicate and sometimes exceed some match-specific intensity parameters, however, HSR and sprinting were consistently lower compared to official matches.
Endoscopic diagnosis and treatment in gastric cancer: Current evidence and new perspectives
Authors: Vincze Áron
Published: April 2023

Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer related deaths worldwide. Despite advancement in endoscopic techniques, the majority of the cases are diagnosed at late stage, when the curative treatment options are very limited. The early gastric cancer (EGC) on the other side is potentially curable, and in selected cases endoscopic resection techniques offer similar survival rates then surgical resection. The detection of EGC is endoscopically challenging and requires high quality examination. Recent data show that close to 10% of the gastric cancer cases had a previous negative endoscopy. This highlights the urgent need to improve the quality of the endoscopy services, what can be achieved by increasing the awareness of gastroenterologists and continuously monitoring the key performance indicators of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Newer endoscopic imaging techniques are also becoming commonly available to aid the detection of gastric premalignant lesions and EGC. High-definition endoscopy with image enhancement techniques is preferred over white light endoscopy to recognize these lesions, and they are also useful to determine the invasion depth of EGC. The endoscopic optical characterization of lesions is necessary for the selection of proper resection method and decide whether endoscopic resection techniques can be considered. Artificial intelligence systems aid the detection of EGC and can help to determine the depth of invasion. Endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection requires centralized care and tertiary referral centers with appropriate expertise to ensure proper patient selection, high success rate and low adverse event rate. Appropriately scheduled endoscopic surveillance of high-risk patients, premalignant lesions and after resection of EGC is also important in the early detection and successful treatment of gastric cancer.
Catamenial pneumothorax: Not only VATS diagnosis
Authors: Quercia Rosatea , De Palma Angela , De Blasi Francesco , Carleo Graziana , De Iaco Giulia , Panza Teodora , Garofalo Giuseppe , Simone Valentina , Costantino Michele , Marulli Giuseppe
Published: April 2023

Background

Catamenial pneumothorax (CP) is a rare type of spontaneous, recurring pneumothorax occurring in women, from the day before menstruation until 72 hours after its beginning. Conservative treatment is generally associated with recurrence of CP. Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) approach allows not only to obtain diagnosis but also to guide definitive treatment of causing lesions, such as ectopic endometrial implants or diaphragmatic defects and fenestrations. We report our experience in VATS management of CP to focus on its role in CP.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective observational study, we collected data from women referred to our center for CP, from January 2019 to April 2022. All patients underwent VATS approach, with muscle-sparing thoracotomy when diaphragmatic fenestrations were detected, to perform selective diaphragmatic plication and/or partial diaphragmatic resection. Results were analyzed in terms of pneumothorax recurrence after surgical treatment. All patients were referred to gynecologists for medical therapy.

Results

Eight women (median age 36 years, range: 21–45), all with right side CP, were included; three already had pelvic endometriosis and two had already undergone lung apicectomy at other institutions. VATS allowed us to detect diaphragmatic fenestrations in seven patients (87.5%) and apical bullae in five (62.5%). Apicectomy was performed in five cases (62.5%), selective diaphragmatic plication in two (25%), and partial diaphragmatic resection in five (62.5%). Chemical pleurodesis with talc was performed in all to minimize the risk of recurrence. Pathological diagnosis of endometriosis on the resected diaphragm was achieved in five patients (62.5%). No recurrence occurred, except for one woman who stopped medical treatment for endometriosis.

Conclusions

In the management of patients with CP, VATS should be recommended not only to obtain an explorative diagnosis of ectopic endometrial implants or diaphragmatic fenestrations but also to allow the most appropriate surgical treatment and obtain pathological specimens for confirmation and definitive diagnosis of thoracic endometriosis. Medical therapy to achieve ovarian rest is mandatory in the postoperative period and should not be discontinued.
Implant removal rate after partial carpal arthrodesis in dogs: A retrospective analysis of 22 cases
Authors: Choi Caroline J. , Balara Jason M. , Casale Sue A. , Wendelburg Kirk L.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to determine the rate of implant removal after partial carpal arthrodesis and to investigate factors associated with implant removal.

Methods

Case records of 22 dogs that underwent partial carpal arthrodesis at two private veterinary referral hospitals were reviewed. Details retrieved were body weight at time of surgery, sex, neuter status, breed, age, cause of carpal hyperextension injury, joint(s) involved in carpal hyperextension injury, laterality, type of implant, administration of post-operative antibiotics, post-operative outcome and indication for implant removal. Association between these factors and implant removal was evaluated.

Results

Of 22 partial carpal arthrodesis, 12 (55%) had implant removal due to persistent lameness and 9/12 (75%) returned to full and acceptable function after implant removal. Indications for implant removal were implant interference (8), infection (4), and migration (1). When comparing type of implant, there was a significant difference when observing implant removal rates (p= 0.04). All 5 dogs with pins and wires (100%) required implant removal. Of 17 dogs with a plate, 7 (41.2%) required implant removal. Implant removal was performed on average 114 days post-operative.

Discussion

Implant removal after partial carpal arthrodesis was frequent and was commonly indicated due to pin and wire fixation or plate implant interference. This study may impact how we prepare clients for potential post-operative complications and implant removal when recommending partial carpal arthrodesis.
Entropy-Based Anomaly Detection for Gaussian Mixture Modeling
Authors: Scrucca Luca
Published: April 2023

Gaussian mixture modeling is a generative probabilistic model that assumes that the observed data are generated from a mixture of multiple Gaussian distributions. This mixture model provides a flexible approach to model complex distributions that may not be easily represented by a single Gaussian distribution. The Gaussian mixture model with a noise component refers to a finite mixture that includes an additional noise component to model the background noise or outliers in the data. This additional noise component helps to take into account the presence of anomalies or outliers in the data. This latter aspect is crucial for anomaly detection in situations where a clear, early warning of an abnormal condition is required. This paper proposes a novel entropy-based procedure for initializing the noise component in Gaussian mixture models. Our approach is shown to be easy to implement and effective for anomaly detection. We successfully identify anomalies in both simulated and real-world datasets, even in the presence of significant levels of noise and outliers. We provide a step-by-step description of the proposed data analysis process, along with the corresponding R code, which is publicly available in a GitHub repository.
Attention–Survival Score: A Metric to Choose Better Keywords and Improve Visibility of Information
Authors: Chamorro-Padial Jorge , Rodríguez-Sánchez Rosa
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we propose a method to aid authors in choosing alternative keywords that help their papers gain visibility. These alternative keywords must have a certain level of popularity in the scientific community and, simultaneously, be keywords with fewer competitors. The competitors are derived from other papers containing the same keywords. Having fewer competitors would allow an author’s paper to have a higher consult frequency. In order to recommend keywords, we must first determine an attention–survival score. The attention score is obtained using the popularity of a keyword. The survival score is derived from the number of manuscripts using the same keyword. With these two scores, we created a new algorithm that finds alternative keywords with a high attention–survival score. We used ontologies to ensure that alternative keywords proposed by our method are semantically related to the original authors’ keywords that they wish to refine. The hierarchical structure in an ontology supports the relationship between the alternative and input keywords. To test the sensibility of the ontology, we used two sources: WordNet and the Computer Science Ontology (CSO). Finally, we launched a survey for the human validation of our algorithm using keywords from Web of Science papers and three ontologies: WordNet, CSO, and DBpedia. We obtained good results from all our tests.