bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishing the Value of Pre-1970 (Non-Subpart J) Pressure Tests for MAOP Determination
Authors: Mittelstadt Benjamin C. , Nicholson Matthew , Delong Terry , Jimenez Brian
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a technical discussion of pre-regulation (i.e., pre-1970) pressure testing and specifically the engineering value of legacy test records for use in activities such as fitness for service when considering manufacturing-related threats or establishing Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure (MAOP) of pipelines.

The requirements associated with 49 CFR 192 Subpart J and specifically §192.517, records of each test performed, were first introduced in August of 1970. Prior to this time, pressure testing was addressed within industry standard ASA (American Standards Association) Code B31.1 with varying guidance for the performance of the test and associated record keeping. The requirement for pressure test records to contain all information listed in §192.517 is reasonable for pressure tests performed after 1970. Pressure tests performed prior to the promulgation of the record keeping requirements are unlikely to contain all information required under §192.517, however not all elements of §192.517 have engineering value when establishing the efficacy of a pressure test.

Certain information is required to understand the stress applied to the pipeline during a pressure test. This information includes pressure levels at each location along the segment, elevation, and test medium. Some of this information must be obtained from the records, other information can be researched and derived from other sources.
Perspective on breakdown in Ga2O3 vertical rectifiers
Authors: Li Jian-Sian , Chiang Chao-Ching , Wan Hsiao-Hsuan , Ren Fan , Liao Yu-Te , Pearton Stephen J.
Published: December 2024

While Ga2O3 rectifiers have shown promising performance, there is a lack of consensus on the significance of the few device breakdown results above 10 kV. We provide some perspective on how these are achieved and areas where a greater understanding of breakdown mechanisms, testing protocols, and wafer handling is needed to advance the technology.
Physical Activity Inequalities in Adolescents From Areas of Different Socioeconomic Status
Authors: De León Marcos Áxel , Rivera Navarro Jesús , Cereijo Tejedor Luís , Tejero Manuel Franco
Published: December 2024

Background: Understanding socioeconomic and gender inequalities in physical inactivity during adolescence is a relevant public health issue to promote health in adult life. The aim of this qualitative study is to identify the factors that determine physical activity inequalities in adolescents. Methods: We selected 2 educational centers in each of the 3 socioeconomic status areas—low, middle, and high—in the city of Madrid. We conducted a total of 18 semistructured interviews and 12 focus groups involving students, parents, teachers, and school principals. We followed the interpretative/constructivist paradigm within a case study design and grounded theory for the data analysis with the usage of ATLAS.ti 23 software. Results: Results included 4 main themes: (1) access to off-school structured physical activities; (2) physical activity restrictions due to socioeconomic status; (3) unacknowledged privilege in upper socioeconomic status adolescents; and (4) gender physical activity inequalities. Conclusion: Improving the health of adolescents and future adults through increased physical activity requires equity and gender perspectives.
Development of a Real-Time Single-Leg Hop Movement Quality Assessment to Identify Lower-Extremity Biomechanical Risk Factors
Authors: Herron Annabelle , Yom Jae , Grooms Dustin R. , Simon Janet E.
Published: December 2024

Context: The single-leg hop is based solely on performance with no measure of movement quality. The purpose of this study was to (1) develop a real-time screening tool to capture single-leg functional performance and movement quality and (2) to provide preliminary validation (criterion validity) of a trained clinician’s real-time movement quality assessment with 3D kinematics. Study Design: Cross-sectional. Methods: Fifty-nine adolescent athletes volunteered (15.2 [1.1] y, 165.8 [9.2] cm, and 61.5 [13.9] kg, 51 females and 8 males). Each participant performed 3 trials of the single-leg hop on their dominant leg. A 3-dimensional inertial measurement system was used to capture knee joint kinematics. A movement quality checklist for use during a single-leg hop (movement quality single-leg hop) was developed to score biomechanical errors based on lower-extremity injury risk factors. Four criteria were developed for the checklist: (1) knee valgus, (2) foot rotation, (3) lateral trunk flexion, and (4) erect posture. An independent t test was conducted for each dependent variable (knee flexion displacement and knee abduction displacement) by each independent variable (movement category presence of (1) lateral trunk flexion, (2) knee valgus, (3) foot rotation, and (4) erect posture/sound during landing [yes or no]). The alpha level was set at α < .05 for all analyses. Results: Knee flexion displacement was significantly decreased (P < .001, mean difference 9.40 [1.88]) and knee abduction displacement was significantly increased (P < .001, mean difference 9.41 [0.47]) for those who had knee valgus documented by the clinician. In additional, for those with visually documented erect posture/sound of landing, there was a significant decrease in knee flexion displacement (P < .001, mean difference 10.13 [2.34]). Conclusion: The movement quality single-leg hop checklist has shown promising preliminary validation (criterion validity) for clinicians to assess movement quality. Increased knee abduction and decreased knee flexion are common risk factors associated with knee injuries and this clinician friendly real-time checklist may highlight individuals who are at risk of sustaining a knee injury.
3D seismic evidence for a single Early Pleistocene glaciation of the central North Sea
Authors: Ottesen Dag , Batchelor Christine L. , Løseth Helge , Brunstad Harald
Published: December 2024

Efforts to understand how Pleistocene climate changes were translated into fluctuations in ice sheet extent and volume are limited by a lack of consensus about the glacial history of the North Sea. Here, we use high-resolution 3D seismic data to interpret the landforms and sediments of the central North Sea in unprecedented detail. In contrast to previous interpretations of multiple extensive early glaciations, our data suggest that grounded ice extended across the central North Sea only once, from western Norway, during the Early Pleistocene. This ice sheet advance, which probably occurred ~1.1 million years ago, deposited an up to 120-meter-thick layer of till across >10,000 square kilometers of the central basin. During the rest of the Early Pleistocene, elliptical pockmarks and elongate contour-current furrows show that the central basin was instead scoured by along-slope currents. These findings constrain the extent of ice sheets before and during the Mid-Pleistocene Transition and reconcile marine and terrestrial evidence for glaciation in northwest Europe.
Tunable elliptical cylinders for rotational mechanical studies of single DNA molecules
Authors: Hong Yifeng , Ye Fan , Gao Xiang , Inman James T. , Wang Michelle D.
Published: December 2024

The angular optical trap (AOT) is a powerful technique for measuring the DNA topology and rotational mechanics of fundamental biological processes. Realizing the full potential of the AOT requires rapid torsional control of these processes. However, existing AOT quartz cylinders are limited in their ability to meet the high rotation rate requirement while minimizing laser-induced photodamage. In this work, we present a trapping particle design to meet this challenge by creating small metamaterial elliptical cylinders with tunable trapping force and torque properties. The optical torque of these cylinders arises from their shape anisotropy, with their optical properties tuned via multilayered SiO
2
and Si
3
N
4
deposition. We demonstrate that these cylinders can be rotated at about three times the rate of quartz cylinders without slippage while enhancing the torque measurement resolution during DNA torsional elasticity studies. This approach opens opportunities for previously inaccessible rotational studies of DNA processing.
Cretaceous coastal mountain building and potential impacts on climate change in East Asia
Authors: Li Jianhua , Dong Shuwen , Zhao Guochun , Cawood Peter A. , Johnston Stephen T. , Zhang Jian , Xin Yujia , Wang Jinming
Published: December 2024

Crustal thickness and elevation variations control mountain building and climate change at convergent margins. As an archetypal Andean-type convergent margin, eastern Asia preserves voluminous magmas ideal for quantifying these processes and their impacts on climate. Here, we use Sr/Y and Ce/Y proxies to show that the crust experienced alternating thickening and thinning during the Late Mesozoic. We identify a noticeably thickened (50 to 55 kilometers) crust associated with tectonic shortening at 120 to 105 million years, corresponding to a >2500-meter-high coastal mountain range. Using climate simulation with the Community Earth System Model, we demonstrate that the mountain uplift changed Asian atmospheric circulation and precipitation patterns, increased inland aridity (~15%), and prompted the eastward desert expansion, contributing substantially to the arid zonal belt across mid- to low-latitude Asia. These findings—compatible with independent geological, geophysical, and climatic observations—have global implications for broadening our understanding of Earth-system interactions in the Cretaceous greenhouse world.
TolCV1 inhibition by NPPB renders
Vibrio vulnificus
less virulent and more susceptible to antibiotics
Authors: Gong Yue , Jiang Rui , Guo Rui Hong , Jo Se Jin , Jeong Hyeongju , Moon Kyuho , Rhee Joon Haeng , Kim Young Ran
Published: December 2024

Bacterial efflux pumps play important roles in the antibiotic resistance and excretion of virulence factors. We previously characterized that TolCV1, a component of efflux pumps, plays critical roles in resistance to antibiotics and bile and also RtxA1 toxin secretion of
Vibrio vulnificus
. In this context, we speculated that TolCV1 blockers would have a dual effect of enhancing susceptibility to antibiotics and suppressing virulence of
V. vulnificus
. Here, we show that the chloride channel blocker 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid (NPPB) increases susceptibility to antibiotics and suppresses cytotoxicity of
V. vulnificus
through inhibition of TolCV1. NPPB significantly decreased TolCV1 in
V. vulnificus
cells by liberating the protein from the cell body. Checkerboard assay showed that NPPB enhanced the antimicrobial activities of antibiotics such as kanamycin, tetracycline, erythromycin, and ampicillin against
V. vulnificus
. Moreover, NPPB inhibited the secretion of RtxA1 toxin and protected host cells from
V. vulnificus
-induced cytotoxicity. In addition, NPPB markedly suppressed
V. vulnificus
growth in the presence of bile salts and enhanced the therapeutic effect of tetracycline in
V. vulnificus
-infected mice. The safety and efficacy of NPPB were confirmed at the cellular and animal levels. Collectively, TolCV1 inhibition by NPPB renders
V. vulnificus
less virulent and more susceptible to antibiotics.
Evaluation of a potent LpxC inhibitor for post-exposure prophylaxis treatment of antibiotic-resistant
Burkholderia pseudomallei
in a murine infection model
Authors: Heine Henry S. , Purcell Bret K. , Duncan Clayton , Miller Lynda , Craig John E. , Chase Amanda , Honour Lynne , Vicchiarelli Michael , Drusano George L. , Zhou Pei
Published: December 2024

LPC-233 (a.k.a. VB-233) is a potent antibiotic targeting the essential enzyme LpxC in Gram-negative bacteria. We present herein the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics data of LPC-233 for treating murine infections caused by
Burkholderia pseudomallei
, a potential biodefense pathogen. A range of doses was evaluated in a post-aerosol exposure model of
B. pseudomallei
-infected mice. After the aerosol challenge with the
B. pseudomallei
strain K96243, treatment was initiated with 10, 30, or 90 mg/kg of LPC-233 orally every 12 h (q12h) or 90 mg/kg intraperitoneally q12h for 14 days. A vehicle-control arm and a positive-control arm consisting of one of the recommended standards of care, ceftazidime (150 mg/kg, q6h) injected subcutaneously, were included. LPC-233 significantly and dose-dependently rescued mice from
B. pseudomallei
infection in comparison with the vehicle (
P
< 0.0001). At dose levels of 30 mg/kg or higher, the survival rate with LPC-233 was significantly higher than that from the ceftazidime arm (
P
range: 0.001–0.05). LPC-233 reversed the murine body weight loss caused by the
B. pseudomallei
infection more rapidly than ceftazidime did, suggesting that it is a faster-acting antibiotic in this dosing regimen. Despite the outstanding survival advantage of LPC-233 over ceftazidime, no significant differences in tissue burdens (liver, lung, spleen, and blood) were observed among any of the treatment groups surviving to the termination of the experiment, suggesting that similar to commercial antibiotics, LPC-233 treatment for lethal
B. pseudomallei
infection may likely require both an acute phase of intensive treatment and an eradication phase of prolonged treatment.
In vitro
test of the novel antibiotic lefamulin alone and in combination with doxycycline against
Mycoplasma genitalium
Authors: Salado-Rasmussen Kirsten , Nørgaard Christina , Pedersen Thomas Roland , Paukner Susanne , Jensen Jørgen Skov
Published: December 2024

Mycoplasma genitalium
, a sexually transmitted bacterium, is a significant cause of urethritis in men and various reproductive tract infections in women, including cervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis, and potentially infertility. Treatment has become increasingly challenging due to the emergence of resistance to both first-line (azithromycin) and second-line (moxifloxacin) antibiotics. The need for new treatment options is critical. This study evaluates the
in vitro
efficacy of the novel antibiotic lefamulin against 54
M
.
genitalium
isolates, including highly resistant variants. Additionally, the potential synergistic effects of combining lefamulin with doxycycline were assessed in eight selected isolates. Lefamulin exhibited strong antibacterial activity across all tested isolates, with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.0005 to 0.064 µg/mL. Minimal bactericidal concentrations ranged from 0.001 to 0.128 µg/mL and were equal to the MIC in 40 of 54 isolates and within two- and fourfold MIC in the rest of the isolates. Notably, lefamulin’s MIC values were significantly lower than those of azithromycin, doxycycline, and moxifloxacin, underscoring its potent efficacy. Checkerboard assays revealed no antagonistic interaction between lefamulin and doxycycline, with some additive effects observed in certain isolates. These findings highlight lefamulin’s potential as a highly effective treatment for
M. genitalium
infections, particularly those involving multi-drug-resistant strains. Given the increasing rates of resistance and the limitations of current therapies, lefamulin may represent a promising new option for managing this challenging pathogen. Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm these
in vitro
results and explore the therapeutic potential of lefamulin in combination with doxycycline.
RhlR-mediated cooperation in cystic fibrosis-adapted isolates of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Cruz Renae L. , Freeman Tiia S. , Asfahl Kyle L. , Smalley Nicole E. , Dandekar Ajai A.
Published: December 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
uses quorum sensing (QS) to regulate the expression of dozens of genes, many of which encode shared products, called “public goods.”
P. aeruginosa
possesses two complete acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL) QS circuits: the LasR-I and RhlR-I systems. Canonically, these systems are hierarchically organized: RhlR-I activity depends on LasR-I activation. However, in contrast to laboratory strains, isolates from people with cystic fibrosis can engage in AHL QS using only the transcription factor RhlR. In these isolates, RhlR regulates AHL QS and the production of secreted public goods, such as the exoprotease elastase, which are accessible to both producing and non-producing cells. When
P. aeruginosa
strains that use LasR to regulate elastase production are grown on casein as the sole carbon and energy source, LasR-null mutant “cheaters” commonly arise in populations due to a selective growth advantage. We asked if these social dynamics might differ in “RhlR cooperators”: populations that use RhlR, not LasR, to regulate public goods. We passaged RhlR cooperators from several genetic backgrounds in casein broth. We found that cheaters emerged among most RhlR cooperators. However, in one isolate background, E90, RhlR-null mutants were dramatically outcompeted by RhlR cooperators. In this background, the mechanism by which RhlR mutants are outcompeted by RhlR cooperators is AHL-dependent and occurs in stationary phase but is not the same as previously described “policing” mechanisms. Our data suggest that cheating, or the lack thereof, does not explain the lack of RhlR mutants observed in most infection environments.

IMPORTANCE

Quorum sensing (QS) mutants arise in a variety of populations of bacteria, but mutants of the gene encoding the transcription factor RhlR in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
appear to be infrequent. Our work provides insight on the mechanisms through which RhlR-mediated cooperation is maintained in a LasR-null population of
P. aeruginosa
. Characterizing the selective pressure(s) that disfavor mutations from occurring in RhlR may enhance our understanding of
P. aeruginosa
evolution in chronic infections and potentially guide the development of therapeutics targeting the RhlR-I QS circuit.
SbcB facilitates natural transformation in
Vibrio cholerae
in an exonuclease-independent manner
Authors: Dalia Triana N. , Dalia Ankur B.
Published: December 2024

Natural transformation (NT) is a conserved mechanism of horizontal gene transfer in bacterial species. During this process, DNA is taken up into the cytoplasm where it can be integrated into the host genome by homologous recombination. We have previously shown that some cytoplasmic exonucleases inhibit NT by degrading ingested DNA prior to its successful recombination. However, one exonuclease, SbcB, counterintuitively promotes NT in
Vibrio cholerae
. Here, through a systematic analysis of the distinct steps of NT, we show that SbcB acts downstream of DNA uptake into the cytoplasm, but upstream of recombinational branch migration. Through mutational analysis, we show that SbcB promotes NT in a manner that does not rely on its exonuclease activity. Finally, we provide genetic evidence that SbcB directly interacts with the primary bacterial recombinase, RecA. Together, these data advance our molecular understanding of horizontal gene transfer in
V. cholerae
and reveal that SbcB promotes homologous recombination during NT in a manner that does not rely on its canonical exonuclease activity.

IMPORTANCE

Horizontal gene transfer by natural transformation contributes to the spread of antibiotic resistance and virulence factors in bacterial species. Here, we study how one protein, SbcB, helps facilitate this process in the facultative bacterial pathogen
Vibrio cholerae
. SbcB is a well-known for its exonuclease activity (i.e., the ability to degrade the ends of linear DNA). Through this study, we uncover that while SbcB is important for natural transformation, it does not facilitate this process using its exonuclease activity. Thus, this work helps further our understanding of the molecular events required for this conserved evolutionary process and uncovers a function for SbcB beyond its canonical exonuclease activity.
The
Campylobacter jejuni
BumS sensor phosphatase detects the branched short-chain fatty acids isobutyrate and isovalerate as direct cues for signal transduction
Authors: Ruiz Nestor , Xing Jiawei , Zhulin Igor B. , Brautigam Chad A. , Hendrixson David R.
Published: December 2024

Two-component signal transduction systems (TCSs) are nearly ubiquitous across bacterial species and enable bacteria to sense and respond to specific cues for environmental adaptation. The
Campylobacter jejuni
BumSR TCS is unusual in that the BumS sensor exclusively functions as a phosphatase rather than a kinase to control phosphorylated levels of its cognate BumR response regulator (P-BumR). We previously found that BumSR directs a response to the short-chain fatty acid butyrate generated by resident microbiota so that
C. jejuni
identifies ideal lower intestinal niches in avian and human hosts for colonization. However, butyrate is an indirect cue for BumS and did not inhibit
in vitro
BumS phosphatase activity for P-BumR. In this work, we expanded the repertoire of lower intestinal metabolites that are cues sensed by BumS that modulate the expression of genes required for colonization to include the branched short-chain fatty acids isobutyrate and isovalerate. Unlike butyrate, isobutyrate and isovalerate inhibited
in vitro
BumS phosphatase activity for P-BumR, indicating that these metabolites are direct cues for BumS. Isobutyrate and isovalerate reduced the thermostability of BumS and caused a reorganization of protein structure to suggest how sensing these cues inhibits phosphatase activity. We also identified residues in the BumS sensory domain required to detect isobutyrate, isovalerate, and butyrate and for optimal colonization of hosts to reveal how gut bacteria can recognize these intestinal metabolites. Our work reveals how this unusual bacterial sensor phosphatase senses a repertoire of intestinal metabolites and how cues alter BumSR signal transduction to influence
C. jejuni
colonization of hosts.

IMPORTANCE

TCSs are prevalent in many bacteria, but the cues sensed by each are not actually known for many of these systems. Microbiota-generated butyrate in human and avian hosts is detected by the
Campylobacter jejuni
BumS sensor phosphatase so that the bacterium identifies ideal lower intestinal niches for colonization. However, BumS only indirectly senses butyrate to inhibit dephosphorylation of its cognate BumR response regulator. Here, we expanded the repertoire of cues sensed by BumS to the branched-short chain fatty acids isobutyrate and isovalerate that are also abundant in the lower intestines. Both isobutyrate and isovalerate are potent, direct cues for BumS, whereas butyrate is an indirect cue. Leveraging isobutyrate and isovalerate as direct cues, we reveal BumS structure is altered upon cue detection to inhibit its phosphatase activity. We provide an understanding of the mechanics of an unusual mode of signal transduction executed by BumSR and other bacterial sensor phosphatase-driven TCSs.
Complete genomes of
Salmonella
and draft genome of
Escherichia
isolates from oysters collected in Canada
Authors: Shutinoski Bojan , Flint Annika , Tamber Sandeep , Weedmark Kelly , Banerjee Swapan
Published: December 2024

Human enteric pathogens in fresh uncooked seafood are of concern to human health. Here, we report the complete genomes of bacteria not commonly found in freshly harvested seafood, two
Salmonella
Typhimurium strains and one draft
Escherichia coli
genome, isolated from harvested oysters grown in Canada.
Draft genome of a
Bacillus subtilis
ICS isolated from an okra (
Abelmoschus esculentus
) extract exhibited genes related to plant growth-promoting potential
Authors: Gloria Paul Christian T. , Luague Ma. Jhanessa A. , Siringan Maria Auxilia T. , Argayosa Vina B.
Published: December 2024

Here, we report the draft genome of
Bacillus subtilis
ICS isolated from the aqueous extract of
Abelmoschus esculentus
. The isolate has a genome size of 4.15 Mb, 43.07% GC, 99.8% BUSCO completeness, and 91.15% CheckM completeness. The genome exhibited genes related to plant growth promotion and secondary metabolite production.
Draft genomes of two contemporary strains of
Babesia divergens
Authors: Apaa Ternenge T. , Jones Ben P. , Blanchard Adam M. , Johnson Nicholas
Published: December 2024

Babesia divergens
,
a
major cause of bovine babesiosis with zoonotic potential, was analyzed through genomes Bdiv23B and Bdiv24B following Illumina sequencing of DNA extracted from PCR-positive cattle blood. The genomes comprised 3888 and 4032 predicted coding sequences, respectively, comparable to the reference genome, Rouen 1987, highlighting genomic consistency across isolates.
Human adenovirus species B knob proteins as immunogens for inducing cross-neutralizing antibody responses
Authors: Liu Zhenwei , Xian Yuting , Lan Jixian , Zhou Zhichao , Li Xiao , Zhou Rong , Chen Dehui , Tian Xingui
Published: December 2024

The re-emerging human adenovirus (HAdV) types 3, 7, 14, and 55 of species B have caused severe or even fatal acute respiratory disease. Therefore, the development of multivalent vaccines against HAdV types 3, 7, 14, and 55 remains an important goal. In our previous study, we identified a cross-neutralizing epitope that induced broadly reactive monoclonal neutralizing antibodies against the knob proteins of HAdV types 7, 11, 14, and 55. To study the immunogenicity of HAdV species B knob proteins, we evaluated humoral immune responses to the knob proteins
in vivo
and
in vitro
. We found that the knob proteins elicited robust binding and neutralizing antibody responses after three immunizations of mice. In addition, mouse antisera raised against the knob proteins exhibited cross-neutralizing activity against original species B members. Furthermore, immunization with a mix of HAdV-3, 7, and 55 knob proteins protected Chinese tree shrews against an experimental HAdV challenge. Our results provide insight into the immunogenicity of HAdV species B knob proteins.

IMPORTANCE

Human adenovirus (HAdV) species B are common pathogens causing severe pneumonia in children, and there is currently no vaccine available. Because there are many HAdV species B types, developing broad-spectrum vaccines against HAdV species B is an important research goal. Our study revealed that immunization with recombinant HAdV species B knob proteins effectively elicited cross-neutralizing antibody responses against original species B members with protective immunity. This study provides a novel insight into the immunogenicity of HAdV species B knob proteins.
Exploring the genomic and antimicrobial resistance tapestry: comparative insights into
Salmonella enterica
serotypes Agona, Braenderup, Muenchen, and Panama in Latin American surface waters
Authors: Chen Zhao , Delgado Suárez Enrique J. , Bonelli Raquel R. , Oliveira Celso J. B. , Moreno-Switt Andrea I. , Adell Aiko D. , Reyes-Jara Angélica , Grim Christopher J. , Allard Marc W. , Tallent Sandra M. , Brown Eric W. , Bell Rebecca L. , Toro Magaly , Meng Jianghong
Published: December 2024

Surface waters function as ecological niches where
Salmonella enterica
can persist and disseminate to fresh produce production systems. We examined the genomic characteristics of
S. enterica
serotypes Agona (
n
= 86), Braenderup (
n
= 47), Muenchen (
n
= 53), and Panama (
n
= 69) isolates from surface waters in Chile, Mexico, and Brazil between 2019 and 2022. Mexican isolates consistently displayed a higher occurrence of genotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) than Chilean and Brazilian isolates. All
S
. Agona isolates exhibited the presence of
fosA7.2
, while
qnrB19
emerged as the predominant AMR gene (ARG) among
S
. Braenderup isolates.
S
. Muenchen isolates from Chile displayed an absence of any ARGs, while those from Mexico and Brazil predominantly carried
qnrB19
. Among
S
. Panama isolates from Chile,
aadA1
,
floR
,
sat2
, and
tet(B
) were the most prevalent ARGs, whereas those from Mexico and Brazil harbored
tet(A
), and
floR
and
tet(A
) as the leading ARGs, respectively. ARG sharing among isolates and ARG co-occurrence within individual isolates were prevalent across countries and serotypes. All isolates containing integrons exhibited genotypic multidrug resistance. The principal coordinates analysis reveals distinct clustering patterns based on country, serotype, number of ARGs per isolate, and plasmid and integron presence/absence. The whole-genome phylogenetic analysis demonstrates clear clusters, each associated with their respective countries. However, a notable exception was observed with one
S
. Agona isolate from Brazil closely related to two isolates from Chile, differing by only 18 and 19 single-nucleotide polymorphisms, respectively.

IMPORTANCE

This comprehensive study explored the intricate genomic landscapes of
S
. Agona, Braenderup, Muenchen, and Panama isolates from surface waters across Chile, Mexico, and Brazil. By filling important knowledge gaps related to the genomic characteristics of these serotypes, the research offers a nuanced understanding of these serotypes as potential reservoirs for multidrug resistance. Our findings emphasize the urgency of targeted interventions to mitigate the emergence and dissemination of multidrug-resistant
Salmonella enterica
. This work underscores the need for informed policies and collaborative efforts to address the risks posed by
S. enterica
in Latin American surface waters.
Isochronous Miocene volcaniclastic horizon in the SW Tarim Basin: Composition, ages, origins, and implications for tephrochronology
Authors: Wei Xiaochun , Chen Hanlin , Garzanti Eduardo , Zheng Hongbo , Wang Ping , Jourdan Fred , Shi Xuhua , Zhu Kongyang
Published: December 2024

Volcaniclastic rocks offer insights into magmatic and tectonic activity and a means to constrain depositional age by radioisotopic dating. However, these tasks can be challenging. An archetypal example is offered by the Upper Miocene strata of the SW Tarim Basin, where intercalated volcaniclastic intervals may decisively improve the existing chronostratigraphy, but detailed multidisciplinary analyses are indispensable to obtain robust chronostratigraphic constraints. Here, we coupled sedimentary facies analysis with X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy−energy-dispersive spectrometry, heavy-mineral, whole-rock geochemical, and single-mineral isotopic analyses to determine the composition, eruption age, formation mechanism, and provenance of the volcaniclastic rocks. This case study demonstrates how the integration of multiple analytical methods can be applied in the identification, dating, and interpretation of volcaniclastic rocks. The studied volcaniclastic sandstones, laterally distributed over more than 200 km, were deposited in a sandy braided-river setting. Mineralogical and geochemical analyses reveal the dominance of volcanic-derived glass, clinopyroxene, sanidine, and/or analcime. The single-grain total fusion method on biotite/sanidine for 40Ar/39Ar dating yielded Upper Miocene (Tortonian) eruption ages of ca. 11 Ma. Zircon U-Pb age spectra suggest that volcanic detritus in most areas (between Qipan and Qimugan) was sourced from the eastern Pamir, whereas that in the Kekeya area was sourced from the western Kunlun region. All combined evidence suggests that these volcaniclastic intervals were deposited contemporaneously or penecontemporaneously with volcanism at ca. 11 Ma and constitute a regionally isochronous marker horizon. Volcanism was plausibly associated with the major Karakoram and Karakax strike-slip faults in the western Tibetan Plateau. Our results suggest that the accuracy of maximum depositional ages based on zircon U-Pb and biotite/sanidine 40Ar/39Ar ages is affected by several factors, including mineral fertility in volcanic source rocks. Selecting minerals with abundant autocrysts, applying high-resolution geochronometers, and/or integrating multiple geochronometers are recommended to enhance the accuracy of age constraints of volcanic/volcaniclastic rocks.
Establishing the modern-like differential climate of the Qaidam Basin, northeast Tibetan Plateau, since ca. 9 Ma: Implications of the effect of interactions between tectonics and atmospheric circles on paleoclimate
Authors: Lin Xiubin , Pan Shaomin , Zhang Wenjing , Jia Xiaojing , Chen Xinhai , An Kaixuan , Wu Lei , Huang Jialun , Chen Xinwei , Chen Hanlin
Published: December 2024

The Qaidam Basin plays a key role in understanding the Cenozoic tectonic and climatic evolution of the northeast Tibetan Plateau. Despite its significance, how the interactions of tectonics and atmospheric circulations at different scales have established the modern-like climatic pattern in the region remains unclear. In this study, grain-size analysis was subjected to the late Cenozoic sediments of the Dahonggou Section in the northeastern Qaidam Basin to reveal the paleoclimatic evolution of the Qaidam Basin. The upward increase of mean grain size and coarse grain content (i.e., hydatogenic-origin content) and decrease of fine grain content (i.e., eolian-origin content) in the Dahonggou Section indicate a trend to an enhanced precipitation condition since the deposition period of the Shangyoushashan Formation (ca. 9 Ma, according to the recent geochronological framework), consistent with previous results (i.e., in the Huaitoutala Section and Nanbaxian areas) along the northeastern Qaidam Basin. By contrast, previous studies suggest that the southwestern Qaidam Basin (i.e., in the Honggouzi Section and KC-1, SG3, ZK402, and F2 boreholes) displayed less precipitation and thus a more arid climate at the same time. Such a differential climate pattern, i.e., less precipitation on the southwestern and more on the northeastern Qaidam Basin, is quite similar to the state of the present climate, suggesting that the modern-like climate of the basin may have been established at least since ca. 9 Ma. Through analyzing the present moisture source and wind field, we suggest that the differential climate of the Qaidam Basin since ca. 9 Ma is a result of an integrated effect of the westerlies on a global scale, the atmospheric subsidence at the northeast margin of the Tibetan Plateau due to plateau uplift on a regional scale, and the atmospheric upwelling at the south slope of the elevated Qilian Shan due to its uplift on a local scale. This study sheds new light on the effect of interactions between tectonics and atmospheric circles of different scales on the paleoclimate of a specific region.
Inferior rectus muscle detachment during strabismus surgery has a major effect on anterior segment perfusion, as shown by LSCI perfusion monitoring
Authors: Engqvist Linn , Öhnell HannaMaria , Nygren Ella , Merdasa Aboma , Sheikh Rafi , Dahlstrand Ulf , Malmsjö Malin
Published: December 2024

Background

Anterior segment ischaemia (ASI) is a rare but feared complication associated with strabismus surgery, arising from damage of the anterior ciliary arteries that run along the extraocular rectus muscles. It has been reported that the risk of ASI following strabismus surgery increases when the vertical rectus muscles are involved. The aim of the present study was to monitor anterior segment perfusion in real time during inferior rectus muscle surgery.

Methods

17 eyes in 16 patients undergoing surgery on the inferior rectus muscle were included. Perfusion was measured in the adjacent paralimbal and iris tissue, before and after inferior rectus muscle detachment, using laser speckle contrast imaging.

Results

The paralimbal vascular network was clearly visualised in the perfusion images, whereas the signals from the iris were lower. Detachment of the inferior rectus muscle resulted in a reduction in paralimbal and iris perfusion by a median of 33% (p<0.0001) and 11% (p=0.0174), respectively.

Conclusion

Strabismus surgery involving the inferior rectus muscle significantly affects perfusion to the anterior segment, and to a greater extent than previously observed following surgery on horizontal rectus muscles (where the decrease was only 23% and 5%).
Are there opportunities to improve care as patients transition through the cancer care continuum? A scoping review
Authors: Kersen Jaling , Kurbatfinski Stefan , Thomas Abigail , Ibadin Seremi , Hezam Areej , Lorenzetti Diane , Chandarana Shamir , Dort Joseph C , Sauro Khara M
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Patients with cancer experience many Transitions in Care (TiC), occurring when a patient’s care transfers between healthcare providers or institutions/settings. Among other patient populations, TiC are associated with medical errors, patient dissatisfaction and elevated healthcare use and expenditure. However, our understanding of TiC among patients with cancer is lacking.

Objective

To map and characterise evidence about TiC among patients with cancer.

Participants

Adult patients with cancer at any stage in the cancer continuum.

Intervention

Evidence sources exploring TiC among patients with cancer were eligible.

Outcome

Evidence sources exploring TiC among patients with cancer using any outcome were eligible.

Setting

Any setting where a patient with cancer received care.

Design

This scoping review included any study describing TiC among patients with cancer with no restrictions on study design, publication type, publication date or language. Evidence sources, identified by searching six databases using search terms for the population and TiC, were included if they described TiC. Two independent reviewers screened titles/abstracts and full texts for eligibility and completed data abstraction. Quantitative data were summarised using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were synthesised using thematic analysis.

Results

This scoping review identified 801 evidence sources examining TiC among patients with cancer. Most evidence sources focused on the TiC between diagnosis and treatment and breast or colorectal cancer. Six themes emerged from the qualitative evidence sources: the transfer of information, emotional impacts of TiC, continuity of care, patient-related factors, healthcare provider-related factors and healthcare system-related factors. Interventions intended to improve TiC among patients with cancer were developed, implemented or reviewed in 163 evidence sources.

Conclusion

While there is a large body of research related to TiC among patients with cancer, there remains a gap in our understanding of several TiC and certain types of cancer, suggesting the need for additional evidence exploring these areas.
Gender differences in antibiotic use behaviour and access to antibiotics in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Adewusi Oluwafemi J , Cassidy Rebecca , Aboderin Aaron , Bailey Simon , Hotham Sarah
Published: December 2024

Introduction

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the persistent lack of access and high inappropriate use of antibiotics, which are fuelled by gender-related factors, continue to facilitate antimicrobial resistance. This in turn reduces the capacity to treat infectious diseases. However, there is a lack of clarity on the nature and extent of the available evidence on gender influence on access to antibiotics and antibiotic use behaviour. This proposed study will systematically review the available literature to map out the scope of evidence on gender differences and, importantly, the related factors influencing antibiotic use and access to antibiotics in LMICs.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review will be conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for scoping reviews. Major databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO and CINAHL) will be searched via the EBCOhost and Web of Science platforms for peer-reviewed articles. Title and abstract screening, as well as full paper review, will be conducted by a single reviewer, with 20% of identified citations reviewed independently by two other reviewers. A predefined excel spreadsheet will be used for data extraction and analysis. Findings will be presented thematically in a narrative summary and tables.

Ethics and dissemination

Obtaining ethics approval is not required for this study. The findings will contribute to understanding gender health inequalities and areas for further research on strategies to incorporate gender considerations in antimicrobial stewardship efforts in LMICs. The study findings will be disseminated through presentations in seminars, scientific conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Social Health Insurance for Universal Health Coverage in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): a retrospective policy analysis of attainments, setbacks and equity implications of Kenya’s social health insurance model
Authors: Nungo Susan , Filippon Jonathan , Russo Giuliano
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To analyse the potential of the Social Health Insurance (SHI) model to support the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) through a policy analysis case study of Kenya’s National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

Design

We used an adaptation of the policy triangle framework to perform a retrospective policy analysis of Kenya’s NHIF, drawing from semistructured interviews and analysis of published documents and grey literature.

Setting

We focused on Kenya’s NHIF as a case study.

Participants

We conducted 21 interviews with key stakeholders including policy experts, healthcare providers and formal and informal sector workers. We then triangulated the interview findings with document analysis.

Results

Only 17% of Kenya’s population are currently covered by the SHI as of 2023. Only 27% of the informal economy is covered by the NHIF, implying very low uptake and/or retention rates. We found little stakeholder engagement in the policy implementation process and minimum adoption of expert advice. Our analysis suggest that political affiliations and positions of power heavily influence health financing policies in Kenya. Purchasing and payment of healthcare was found to be riddled with inefficiencies, including slow bureaucratic reimbursement procedures, little expertise by rural hospital clerks, misappropriations and favouritism of specific private healthcare providers. We also found that group-based parallel schemes and penalty payments for defaulted premiums widened the existing inequity gap in healthcare access.

Conclusion

Although the SHI system is perceived to increase coverage and the quality of health services in Kenya, substantial structural and contextual challenges appear to deter its suitability to finance the attainment of Universal Health Coverage. From Kenya’s experience, we identify little informal sector participation, inefficiencies in purchasing and payment of healthcare services, as well lack of political goodwill, as key bottlenecks for the implementation of SHI schemes in LMICs. LMICs adopting SHI need to also implement co-financing arrangements that do not impose on the population to co-finance, strategic purchasing systems, political goodwill and good governance for the SHI systems to be beneficial.
Does primary posterior tracheopexy prevent collapse of the trachea in newborns with oesophageal atresia and tracheomalacia? A study protocol for an international, multicentre randomised controlled trial (PORTRAIT trial)
Authors: van Stigt Marit J B , van Hal Anne-Fleur R L , Bittermann Arnold J N , Butler Colin R , Ceelie Ilse , Cianci Daniela , de Coppi Paolo , Gahm Caroline , Hut Julia E , Joosten Koen F M , Lemmers Petra M A , Mullassery Dhanya , Nandi Reema , Pullens Bas , Staals Lonneke M , Svensson Jan F , Tytgat Stefaan H A J , van de Ven Peter M , Wijnen René M H , Vlot John , Lindeboom Maud Y A
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Tracheomalacia (TM) often occurs in children with oesophageal atresia (OA), leading to recurrent respiratory symptoms and in severe cases to blue spells or ultimately respiratory arrest. In some patients, a secondary posterior tracheopexy may then be indicated. This secondary surgery, as well as respiratory morbidity, may be prevented by performing a primary posterior tracheopexy (PPT) concurrent with primary OA correction. The aim of this trial is to determine if a PPT can decrease—or prevent—tracheal collapse in newborns with OA and TM. Additionally, the trial aims to determine whether the potential observed effect of PPT on tracheal stability is sustained over time.

Methods and analysis

This is an international multicentre double-blind randomised controlled trial. Seventy-eight children with OA type C will be randomised 1:1 into the no-PPT group or PPT group. Randomisation will be stratified by centre. The degree and location of TM are assessed during preoperative, intraoperative and two postoperative tracheobronchoscopies. The occurrence of TM will be evaluated during three routine follow-up consultations until the age of 6 months. The primary outcome is the degree of collapse of the tracheal wall during the intraoperative tracheobronchoscopy (after performing the PPT/no-PPT), measured in percentages. The difference in the mean degree of collapse will be compared between the no-PPT and the PPT groups using linear regression, adjusting for centre and the preoperative degree of tracheal collapse at baseline. The adjusted mean difference will be reported as effect size together with its 95% CI.

Ethics and dissemination

Patients will be included after written parental informed consent. The risks and burden associated with the trial are minimal. The institutional review board of the University Medical Center Utrecht has approved this protocol (METC-number 23-256/A). Results will be shared in a peer-reviewed scientific journal and presented at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT06335862.
Prevalence and characteristics of liver steatosis and fibrosis in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients: a cross-sectional study in populations of eastern China
Authors: Yu Hekai , Su Xianghui , Tao Wenxuan , Sun Weixia , Zhang Xiaoyan , Han Qing , Zhao Zhuoxiao , Zhang Yan , Chen Xiaoqian , Liu Xinliang , Jia Dianrong , Fang Li , Li Ling
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To describe the prevalence, clinical characteristics and risk factors of liver steatosis and fibrosis in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in eastern China.

Design

A cross-sectional, multicentre study based on an ongoing cohort study.

Setting

16 clinics in eastern China, including primary clinics to tertiary hospitals.

Participants

1816 patients with T2DM diagnosis who met the inclusion criteria were recruited into the study.

Intervention

Participants underwent elastography examination.

Main outcome measures

Descriptive analysis was performed to calculate the prevalence and characteristics of liver steatosis and fibrosis. The correlated factors were analysed using single- and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The prevalence of liver steatosis in T2DM patients is 69.7%, with 46% moderate to severe steatosis. 34.6% and 6.7% of the patients were detected with liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Steatosis patients were younger, had higher body mass index (BMI), higher levels of insulin resistance and more severe lipid metabolism disorders. Similar trends of differences were observed in patients with fibrosis. Female gender (OR=0.574, 95% CI 0.381 to 0.865), BMI (OR=1.491, 95% CI 1.375 to 1.616), disease duration, inflammation and serum lipid profile markers were risk factors of steatosis, while BMI (OR=1.204, 95% CI 1.137 to 1.275) and female gender (OR=0.672, 95% CI 0.470 to 0.961) were still the most significant predictors of liver fibrosis.

Conclusions

The prevalence of liver steatosis and fibrosis were high in patients with T2DM. Liver steatosis and fibrosis in these patients appeared to be more associated with lipid metabolism disorders and insulin resistance rather than glucose levels.

Trial registration number

Clinical trial:NCT05597709.