bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Die Rolle des Hautmikrobioms bei atopischer Dermatitis – Zusammenhänge und Konsequenzen
Authors: Fölster‐Holst Regina
Published: May 2022

Die physikalische Barrierefunktion der Haut wird maßgeblich unterstützt durch das (epi‐) dermale Immunsystem sowie das hauteigene Mikrobiom. Bei atopischer Dermatitis geraten alle drei Faktoren aus dem Gleichgewicht. Das Hautmikrobiom etabliert sich unmittelbar nach der Geburt und spielt eine wichtige Rolle für die Entwicklung und Aufrechterhaltung einer Immunhomöostase. Das Krankheitsbild der atopischen Dermatitis ist unter anderem durch Veränderungen des Hautmikrobioms gekennzeichnet. Insbesondere während eines akuten Schubs lassen sich eine stark verminderte bakterielle Diversität sowie die Dominanz eines einzelnen Pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus, beobachten. Staphylococcus aureus verschlimmert das entzündliche Geschehen und schwächt durch Proteasen und Toxine die ohnehin stark beeinträchtigte Barrierefunktion der Haut von Patienten mit atopischer Dermatitis. Aus dem Wissen um die dermale Dysbiose ergeben sich für die Therapie der Erkrankung jedoch auch neue Behandlungsoptionen. Insbesondere die Anwendung lebender Bakterien stellt eine unmittelbare Beeinflussung des Hautmikrobioms dar. In ersten klinischen Untersuchungen haben verschiedene Ansätze vielversprechende Ergebnisse demonstrieren können, dieser Artikel gibt einen Überblick über die Arbeiten auf diesem Gebiet.
Psoriasis‐Therapie während Schwangerschaft und Stillzeit
Authors: Balakirski Galina , Gerdes Sascha , Beissert Stefan , Ochsendorf Falk , von Kiedrowski Ralph , Wilsmann‐Theis Dagmar
Published: May 2022

Im letzten Jahrzehnt wurden zahlreiche neue Systemtherapien für die Psoriasis vulgaris und Psoriasisarthritis (PsA) zugelassen. Dennoch sind Therapieentscheidungen bei Frauen mit Kinderwunsch sowie bei schwangeren und stillenden Frauen aufgrund der schwachen Datenlage schwer zu treffen. Die umfangreichste Erfahrung zur Psoriasistherapie während einer Schwangerschaft besteht für die topische Anwendung von Corticosteroiden und gehört somit zur Basisversorgung. Die medizinisch kontrollierte Anwendung der UV‐Lichttherapie in der Schwangerschaft gilt als unbedenklich. Die beste Evidenzlage bezüglich systemischer Therapie während Schwangerschaft und Stillzeit liegt für TNF‐α‐Inhibitoren vor und fand Eingang in die jeweiligen Fachinformationen. Dies ist umso wichtiger bei begleitender PsA. Unter den traditionellen Systemtherapeutika besteht zu Ciclosporin die umfangreichste Kenntnis; es muss bei medizinischer Notwendigkeit während der Schwangerschaft nicht abgesetzt werden. TNF‐α‐Blocker, insbesondere die pegylierte Form, würden aber bei Neueinstellung priorisiert werden. Allerdings besteht bei vielen weiteren Systemtherapien im Falle einer (ungeplant) aufgetretenen Schwangerschaft keine zwingende Indikation zum Schwangerschaftsabbruch. Die vorliegende Arbeit stellt eine Zusammenfassung der aktuellen Evidenz dar und soll eine individuelle Entscheidungsfindung unterstützen. Nach ausführlicher Aufklärung der Patientinnen und ihrer Partner kann somit unter Berücksichtigung aller Faktoren (wie Komorbidität, Krankheitsschwere, Verlauf vorheriger Schwangerschaften) eine gemeinsame Entscheidung zur geeigneten Therapie getroffen werden.
Longitudinal study of Spanish Dual Language Immersion graduates: Secondary school academic and language achievement
Authors: Padilla Amado M. , Chen Xinjie , Swanson Elizabeth , Peterson Margaret , Peruzzaro Amy
Published: May 2022

Five cohorts of students (N = 322) who completed a K–5 Spanish Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program in an urban school district were followed longitudinally through middle and high school completion. Academic and language achievement data included English Language Arts and Mathematics scores on the Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) test for grades 3–8 and on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) for 11th grade, 10th‐grade cumulative high school grade point average, enrollment in and grades earned in language classes, and attainment of the California Seal of Biliteracy. The DLI students were compared to non‐DLI students who attended the same schools. Most DLI students continued with advanced level classes in Spanish in high school, and nearly half earned the California Seal of Biliteracy. Achievement results indicate that DLI graduates performed at equivalent or higher levels than non‐DLI students on standardized achievement measures for English Language Arts and Mathematics.
How do emerging market suppliers reshape the governance of global value chains? Evidence from China
Authors: Ma Huanhuan , Su Jingqin , Gao Xin , Wang Na
Published: May 2022

The growth in the number of emerging market firms with a global presence highlights the need to better understand how suppliers influence the governance in global value chains (GVCs). However, existing frameworks do not sufficiently elaborate this phenomenon's standing at firm level. Using a multi‐case study of six suppliers in China, this research explains how suppliers can reshape the governance structure with capability development, and thus change the power balance in GVCs. This study highlights governance changes from a supplier‐centric perspective: external governance with decentralized control and internal governance with control integration. More specifically, through the underlying mechanism from a value‐based perspective, suppliers can take greater control of specific value chain activities and move from being a value creator to becoming a value innovator.
Gender system and corruption: Patriarchy as a predictor of “fairness”
Authors: Ottervik Mattias , Su Zheng
Published: May 2022

This article tests gender system as a mediator in the relationship between gender and corruption. Using data from World Values Survey we find a robust, significant link between acceptance of patriarchy and acceptance of corruption. We also find a significant link between acceptance of male superiority and acceptance of corruption. In the relationship between gender and attitudes toward corruption, gender system is a consistently statistically significant predictor of acceptance of corruption whereas gender is not. The predictive power of acceptance of patriarchy and male superiority on corruption holds even with extensive controls. These results provide insight into the link between gender and corruption and suggest some of the wide‐ranging effects of gender system on the political system.
A prospective cohort study of renal function and bone turnover in adults with hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐HIV co‐infection with high prevalence of tenofovir‐based antiretroviral therapy use
Authors: Gizaw Andinet , King Wendy C. , Hinerman Amanda S. , Chung Raymond T. , Lisker‐Melman Mauricio , Ghany Marc G. , Khalili Mandana , Jain Mamta K. , Graham Jacob , Swift‐Scanlan Theresa , Kleiner David E. , Sulkowski Mark , Wong David K. , Sterling Richard K. ,   The HIV‐HBV Cohort Study of the Hepatitis B Research Network
Published: May 2022

Objective

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is a common component of antiretroviral therapy in hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐HIV co‐infected adults but few studies have evaluated worsening renal function and bone turnover, known effects of TDF.

Methods

Adults from eight North American sites were enrolled in this cohort study. Research assessments were conducted at entry and every 24 weeks for ≤192 weeks. Bone markers were tested at baseline, week 96 and week 192 from stored serum. We evaluated changes in markers of renal function and bone turnover over time and potential contributing factors.

Results

A total of 115 patients were prospectively followed; median age 49 years, 91% male and 52% non‐Hispanic Black. Duration of HIV was 20.5 years. TDF use ranged from 80% to 92% throughout follow‐up. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (ml/min/1.73m2) decreased from 87.1 to 79.9 over 192 weeks (p < 0.001); however, the prevalence of eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73m2 did not appear to differ over time (always <16%; p = 0.43). From baseline to week 192, procollagen type I N‐terminal propeptide (P1NP) (146.7 to 130.5 ng/ml; p = 0.001), osteocalcin (14.4 to 10.2 ng/ml; p < 0.001) and C‐terminal telopeptides of type I collagen (CTX‐1) (373 to 273 pg/ml; p < 0.001) decreased. Younger age, male sex and overweight/obesity versus normal weight predicted a decrease in eGRF. Black race, healthy weight versus underweight, advanced fibrosis, undetectable HBV DNA, and lower parathyroid hormone level predicted worsening bone turnover.

Conclusion

In this HBV‐HIV cohort with high prevalence of TDF use, several biomarkers of renal function and bone turnover indicated worsening status over approximately 4 years, highlighting the importance of clinical awareness in co‐infected adults.
The influence of parental body composition and lifestyle on offspring growth trajectories
Authors: Versele Vickà , Dieberger Anna , van Poppel Mireille , Van De Maele Karolien , Deliens Tom , Aerenhouts Dirk , Clarys Peter , Devlieger Roland , Bogaerts Annick
Published: May 2022

Background and Objectives

Parental body composition, physical activity (PA) and sedentary time (ST) have been linked with offspring body weight and health. However, independent contributions of body composition, PA and ST of both parents on growth trajectories of their offspring, taking into account sex differences, has not been investigated.

Methods

A total of 114 mother–father–child triads were included for analyses. Parental weight, height, PA and ST were objectively measured at 12 weeks of gestation. Gestational weight gain (GWG) and birthweight and ‐length were obtained from medical records. Offspring weight and length were measured repeatedly until 1 year of age. Longitudinal linear mixed models, stratified by offspring sex, were used to analyse the association between parental characteristics and offspring growth.

Results

GWG (positive association), maternal moderate‐to‐vigorous PA (negative association) and paternal ST (positive association) were associated with weight trajectories in girls but not in boys. Parental characteristics were not associated with offspring length trajectories.

Conclusions

This study highlights the contribution of parental lifestyle characteristics on weight trajectories of their daughters during the first year of life. The paternal impact stresses the need to further investigate health behaviours of expecting fathers in relation to offspring health. Family‐based interventions are needed with a focus on increasing PA and limiting ST in both parents.
Ceriporia lacerata HG2011 enhances P mobilization and wheat agronomic performance irrespective of P fertilization levels
Authors: Sui Zongming , Huang Jianguo , Yuan Ling
Published: May 2022

Aims

To identify soil phosphorus (P) mobilization and wheat agronomic performance in response to the P mobilizer Ceriporia lacerata HG2011 could provide a new strategy for improving fertilizer P efficiency in wheat cultivation.

Methods and Results

Liquid culture showed that C. lacerata HG2011 converted Ca3(PO4)2, FePO4, AlPO4, phytate, lecithin and ribonucleic acid into soluble inorganic P, which was stimulated by ammonium and urea but less influenced by P supply. In the incubation experiment, this fungus colonized on wheat roots, and mobilized P in the soils regardless of Olsen P levels. The efflux of protons, organic acids and phosphatase could be involved in insoluble P mobilization. In the greenhouse pot experiment, C. lacerata HG2011 increased soil Olsen P under different P fertilization levels, improved wheat P uptake by 15.39%–28.70%, P fertilizer use efficiency by 4.26%–13.04% and grain yield by 12.24%–22.39%.

Conclusions

Ceriporia lacerata HG2011 was able to colonize on wheat roots, mobilize P in soils and improve wheat agronomic performance irrespective of P fertilization levels.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Ceriporia lacerata HG2011 could be used to enhance the quality of compost or as a bio-fertilizer for P mobilization in modern sustainable agriculture.
Combination of FOXD1 and Plk2: A novel biomarker for predicting unfavourable prognosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Zong Yaping , Miao Yiming , Li Wenchang , Zheng Minhua , Xu Zhuoqing , Gao Han , Feng Wenqing , Xu Zifeng , Zhao Jingkun , Shen Lifei , Lu Aiguo
Published: May 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a worldwide disease with worse survival. Our objective is to identify previously unrecognized prognostic factors to better evaluate disease progression. Seven GEO datasets were collected and analysed using R software, followed by KEGG enrichment analysis and TFs network construction. LASSO‐COX analysis was performed to select the most useful prognostic features. COX model was used to analyse prognostic factors associated with OS. The survival curve was constructed using Kaplan–Meier analysis. A Nomogram model was also constructed to predict prognosis. A total of 3559 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 66 differentially expressed transcription factors were identified. FOXD1 was identified as the most differentially expressed factor of TFs covering the most downstream DEGs and independent risk prognostic factor. Next, FOXD1 expression was detected using immunohistochemical staining in 131 CRC patients’ tissue and the association between FOXD1 expression and clinicopathologic features was analysed. High expression of FOXD1 was correlated with TNM stage and pathological differentiation. Multivariate COX regression analyses confirmed that FOXD1 high‐expression, TNM stage and tumour differentiation were independent prognostic risk factor of OS and DFS. Patients with high expression of FOXD1 were more likely to have poor overall survival and disease‐free survival. The combination of FOXD1 and Plk2 which we have previously reported allowed us to predict the survival of post‐surgical CRC patients more accurately, adding to the former prognostic model based on the TNM Stage. The results showed that patients with high expression of both FOXD1 and Plk2 have the worst survival. A combination of FOXD1 and Plk2 can better evaluate patients’ survival.
Species identification of bacterial communities in the small brown planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus (Hemiptera: Delphacidae)
Authors: Zhao Dian‐Shu , Gao Zi‐Jie , Wang Su‐Dan , Wan Yu‐Ying , Bing Xiao‐Li , Hong Xiao‐Yue
Published: May 2022

Microbes are prevalent and abundant in diverse insects. Many microbes are known to influence host fitness. The small brown planthoppers Laodelphax striatellus Fallen is a notorious plant sap‐feeding pest causing heavy loss to rice yield. Some L. striatellus‐associated microbes have been surveyed partially. However, their microbial communities at the species level were poorly identified. In this study, we investigated the bacterial community from 7 populations of L. striatellus using the restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP)‐PCR of the 16S rRNA gene. The identified bacteria were assigned into 8 species, the top three of which (Wolbachia sp., Pseudomonas poae and Asaia sp.) accounted for 96% of amplified bacterial sequences. The Wolbachia is of supergroup B and the most abundant in all wild populations. In addition, P. poae was reported in L. striatellus and showed mild pathogenicity. Altogether, our results provide detailed information on the bacterial community in L. striatellus. More research is required to explore the effects of symbiotic bacteria on the fitness of small brown planthoppers.
Clinical implications of the distinct anatomy and innervation of the long head biceps tendon
Authors: Harte Lauren M. , Rick Taylor , Bisson Leslie J. , Inglis Stuart , Marzo John M.
Published: May 2022

The proximal long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) has been recognized as a well‐known cause of anterior shoulder pain. Previous studies have identified a heterogeneous distribution of nerve fibers in the tendon, with a higher abundance of fibers in the proximal and distal thirds of the tendon. This suggests that the proximal portion of the long head biceps tendon may have a different source of innervation than the distal portion. The purpose of this study was to review the innervation of the superior shoulder and identify the proximal source of sensory innervation of the LHBT. The relevant hypothesis was that the suprascapular nerve (SSN) was the proximal source of sensory innervation to the LHBT. Gross and microdissection of eight fresh human cadaver shoulders were performed, with a focus on the distal articular branches of suprascapular nerve (SSN). Utilizing 3.5× magnification loupes, the medial subacromial branch (MSAb), lateral subacromial branch (LSAb), and posterior glenohumeral branch (PGHb) were identified and followed distally to their terminal branches. In all specimens, terminal branches of the lateral subacromial branch supplied the proximal LHBT and the superior labrum. Terminal branches of the posterior glenohumeral branch supplied the posterosuperior labrum and, to a lesser extent, the labral attachment of the LHBT. These findings confirm branches of the suprascapular nerve as the proximal source of sensory innervation to the LHBT. Identification of the suprascapular nerve as a source of proximal innervation of the LHBT may influence clinical decisions related to nonsurgical and surgical intervention, nerve blocks, and nerve ablation procedures.
Resettled but not redressed: Land restitution and post‐settlement dynamics in South Africa
Authors: Chitonge Horman
Published: May 2022

Redressing the wrongs of the past has been a central theme in democratic South Africa. The land restitution programme was specifically intended to foster the process of redressing the loss and pain inflicted through racially motivated and violent dispossession of land. After more than two and half decades of implementing the land restitution programme, there are serious questions around how far this programme has contributed to redressing the injustices of the past. This paper, drawing from three land restitution case studies, illustrates that while many victims of colonial and apartheid land dispossession have been compensated, the land restitution process has scored limited success in redressing past injustices. The paper argues that the failure to substantively redress colonial and apartheid land dispossession is partly due to the narrow conceptualization of the restitution programme, which has emphasized procedural aspects, ignoring the need for meaningful redress of the victims of land dispossession. As a result of this, the land restitution programme has not fulfilled its transformative objectives of reconciliation, reconstruction, and reducing land inequalities in the country.
Intersectionality and nursing leadership: An integrative review
Authors: Aspinall Cathleen , Jacobs Stephen , Frey Rosemary
Published: May 2022

Aims and objectives

This review aimed to synthesise international research about how intersectionality has been used to explore issues within the nursing profession. The objectives were to determine which intersecting variables have been explored, how intersectionality has been operationalised, and the implications for nursing leadership.

Background

Barriers to health system leadership created at the intersection of gender, race, ethnicity, professional cadre and other socially constructed categories exist in the health workforce. Consequently, an intersectionality paradigm has been recommended to explore power, privilege and oppression issues in the nursing profession.

Design

An integrative systematic review method was selected for its ability to include diverse methodologies. The review complies with the PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews.

Method

The search terms nurs* nurses nursing AND Intersectionality intersectional intersectionalism, intersect were used in December 2021 to search the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL Plus) PsycINFO, PubMed, Ovid, ProQuest and the first ten pages of Google Scholar from 2011 to 2021. Directed content analysis was applied to the data.

Results

Access to education, absence of expectations as a career and patriarchal structures support male nurses into positions of leadership in healthcare systems. Intra‐group differences highlight the paradox of homogenous categories for ethnicity and gender. Being a member of an ethnic minority group hinders career progression regardless of gender. The aftereffects of colonisation exist within the nursing space.

Conclusions

This review is the first to synthesise research using intersectionality to explore the impact of socially constructed identities on nursing leadership. There is a dearth of evidence specific to this topic, ignoring the diversity within this professional group. Future research should include intersectionality to discover how social categories empower or impede a nurse's career progression to leadership roles.

Relevance to clinical practice

An intersectionality paradigm can encourage nurses to attend to issues of power, privilege and oppression in the profession and their practice.
Understanding the Needs of Primary School Teachers in Supporting Their Students' Emotion Regulation
Authors: Petrovic Julia , Mettler Jessica , Argento Amanda , Carsley Dana , Bloom Elana , Sullivan Shaun , Heath Nancy L.
Published: May 2022

Background

Accumulating evidence has underscored the importance of fostering children's emotion regulation (ER) within primary school settings and the role of teachers in such efforts. This study sought to assess the needs of teachers in supporting students' ER, through a better understanding of teachers' perceptions and use of healthy versus unhealthy ER strategies in the classroom.

Methods

Primary school teachers (n = 212; 91% female) completed an online, researcher‐developed needs assessment survey assessing their perceptions regarding the importance of ER instruction and challenges surrounding children's ER, as well as the perceived effectiveness and reported use of healthy and unhealthy ER strategies in the classroom.

Results

Cochran's Q and chi‐square analyses revealed misperceptions regarding the effectiveness of healthy and unhealthy strategies, as well as discrepancies between teachers' perceptions regarding the effectiveness of specific healthy strategies (eg, meditation) and their reported use of them.

Conclusions

While teachers recognize the growing importance of fostering ER in the classroom, the present findings suggest that there is a need for more professional development regarding the effectiveness and implementation of ER strategies in the primary school context. Efforts should be made to provide teachers with concrete recommendations for the implementation of ER strategies in the classroom.
Winners and losers of the COVID‐19 pandemic: An excess profits tax proposal
Authors: Azémar Céline , Desbordes Rodolphe , Melindi‐Ghidi Paolo , Nicolaï Jean‐Philippe
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we study the gains and losses incurred during the COVID‐19 pandemic. We distinguish between the effects of the pandemic and those of the health measures implemented to reduce the death toll, notably “the lockdown.” Our theoretical model is focused on within‐sector firm heterogeneity and involves imperfect competition in a partial equilibrium setting. A comparison between the gains and losses triggered by both the pandemic and the lockdown indicates that an excess profits tax imposed on the “winners” could partly compensate the “losers” of the same sector.
Extreme variation in recombination rate and genetic diversity along the Sylvioidea neo‐sex chromosome
Authors: Ponnikas Suvi , Sigeman Hanna , Lundberg Max , Hansson Bengt
Published: May 2022

Recombination strongly impacts sequence evolution by affecting the extent of linkage and the efficiency of selection. Here, we study recombination over the Z chromosome in great reed warblers (Acrocephalus arundinaceus) using pedigree‐based linkage mapping. This species has extended Z and W chromosomes (“neo‐sex chromosomes”) formed by a fusion between a part of chromosome 4A and the ancestral sex chromosomes, which provides a unique opportunity to assess recombination and sequence evolution in sex‐linked regions of different ages. We assembled an 87.54 Mbp and 90.19 cM large Z with a small pseudoautosomal region (0.89 Mbp) at one end and the fused Chr4A‐part at the other end of the chromosome. A prominent feature in our data was an extreme variation in male recombination rate along Z with high values at both chromosome ends, but an apparent lack of recombination over a substantial central section, covering 78% of the chromosome. The nonrecombining region showed a drastic loss of genetic diversity and accumulation of repeats compared to the recombining parts. Thus, our data emphasize a key role of recombination in affecting local levels of polymorphism. Nonetheless, the evolutionary rate of genes (dN/dS) did not differ between high and low recombining regions, suggesting that the efficiency of selection on protein‐coding sequences can be maintained also at very low levels of recombination. Finally, the Chr4A‐derived part showed a similar recombination rate as the part of the ancestral Z that did recombine, but its sequence characteristics reflected both its previous autosomal, and current Z‐linked, recombination patterns.
Three dimension high‐definition manometry in evaluation of anorectal function in 104 normal infants and children: A clinical study from China
Authors: Zhao Jiawei , Zhang Yanan , Xiong Yu , Du Jingbin , Chen Yongwei , Guo Weihong , Huang Jinshi
Published: May 2022

Background

We aimed to evaluate anorectal function of normal infants and children through three dimension high‐definition anorectal manometry (3D ARM) to fill the research blank in this area.

Methods

From November 2014 to January 2019, 104 normal infants and children among patients who underwent 3D ARM were divided into four groups according to age (≤1 month; >1 month to ≤1 year; >1 year to ≤4 years and >4 years) and reviewed. The following parameters were performed: the length of anorectal high‐pressure zone (HPZ), the resting pressure of HPZ (HPZ‐rest), the squeezing pressure of HPZ (HPZ‐sqze), recto‐anal inhibitory reflex (RAIR), and pressure distribution of the anal canal. Graphpad Prism 7.0 software was used for statistical analysis.

Results

HPZ, HPZ‐rest, and HPZ‐sqze increased with age. There were differences in HPZ‐rest and HPZ‐sqze between the groups (p < 0.05). Sex had a significant effect on HPZ, but not on HPZ‐rest and HPZ‐sqze. The HPZ of males was higher than that of females among those ≤1 month old (p < 0.05). RAIR (‐) was found in 17 patients (16%) for whom Hirschsprung's disease were excluded by biopsy, and these patients had regular defecation during follow‐up. Most of the patients (85%) older than 1 year had a symmetric anal pressure distribution during the contracting period (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Anal canal function parameters gradually increased with age in normal infants and children which demonstrated the important role of age in evaluation, and these parameters can provide a reference for postoperative evaluation of anal canal function.
Social policy reform driven by crises: Promoting and reshaping social policy during the SARS and COVID‐19 pandemics in China
Authors: Liu Tao
Published: May 2022

This article focuses on one particular and under‐investigated dimension in the study of social policy – crisis events and their special function in promoting and shaping social protection programs. Crises are usually regarded as negative social events that tempestuously challenge the pre‐existing socio‐economic order, triggering social conflicts and disruption, either temporarily or in a more enduring fashion. However, social crises may also foster new opportunities for social investment, public finance expansion and welfare state building after the outbreak of a crisis and even during the post‐crisis period. This article first examines the SARS pandemic and analyzes its developmental trajectory, reconstructing the national debates and discourses on the negative consequences and lessons learned in the SARS and post‐SARS period. I argue that this crisis event revealed many loopholes in the Chinese public health system, constituting a powerful driving force for rebuilding the medical insurance system and health governance in China, and strengthening public discourse on welfare state responsibility. Second, I explore how, during the COVID‐19 pandemic, scholars and experts have constructed the ‘short board’ of Chinese social policy, calling for further social policy reforms to narrow the gaps in health protection resources among social classes and to eliminate the fragmentation of health resource distribution.
Tailored negativity. Campaign consultants, candidate personality, and attack politics
Authors: Nai Alessandro , Tresch Anke , Maier Jürgen
Published: May 2022

To what extent are negative election campaigns “tailored” to the personality of the candidates? And with what electoral consequences? In this article we tackle these questions by focusing on the 2019 Swiss federal election. We estimate the presence of negativity as a function of the personality profile of competing candidates (Big Five) and the presence of professional consultants. Analyses based on data from a candidate survey (Selects 2019) suggest that campaign consultants are likely to take stock of the character of their candidate, and tailor the content of their campaigns accordingly ‐ more aggressive for more energetic candidates (higher plasticity) and for less stable candidates (lower stability). These results, we argue, support our central claim that the role of consultants is to provide the most adequate campaign for the candidate they are promoting (“tailoring hypothesis”). We fail however to find any convincing evidence that such tailoring is electorally successful.
The Global Wealth Chains of Private‐Equity‐Run Physician Practices
Authors: Bůžek Richard , Scheuplein Christoph
Published: May 2022

Currently, numerous physician practices in industrial and emerging countries are being taken over by private equity firms and integrated into novel physician corporations. This involves private equity firms producing a global wealth chain (GWC) between their investors and the target asset, using offshore financial centres to facilitate tax‐avoiding reflux of capital. Moreover, they are opening up ambulatory health care as an asset for capital investment by overcoming previous market barriers to ambulatory health care via a legal construct. In this paper, we trace the spatial links of these finance‐side and sector‐specific corporate chains based on a capital flow analysis of private equity takeovers of Medical Care Centres (MCCs) in Bavaria, Germany. With our heuristics of a double‐layered GWC, which enables the extraction of value from the German health system, we contribute to the emerging GWC debate that aims to conceptualise the complex and often opaque spatialisations of financialisation processes.
Impact of solid organ transplant status on outcomes of hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Schaenman Joanna , Byford Hannah , Grogan Tristan , Motwani Yash , Beaird Omer E. , Kamath Megan , Lum Erik , Meneses Katherine , Sayah David , Vucicevic Darko , Saab Sammy
Published: May 2022

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has caused significant morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. However, it remains unclear whether the risk factor for SOT patients is the immunosuppression inherent to transplantation versus patient comorbidities.

Methods

We reviewed outcomes in a cohort of SOT (n = 129) and non‐SOT (NSOT) patients (n = 708) admitted to the University of California, Los Angeles for COVID‐19 infection. Data analyses utilized multivariate logistic regression to evaluate the impact of patient demographics, comorbidities, and transplant status on outcomes. SOT patients were analyzed by kidney SOT (KSOT) versus nonkidney SOT (NKSOT) groups.

Results

SOT and NSOT patients with COVID‐19 infection differed in terms of patient age, ethnicity, and comorbidities. NKSOT patients were the most likely to experience death, with a mortality rate of 16.2% compared with 1.8% for KSOT and 8.3% for NSOT patients (p = .013). Multivariable analysis of hospitalized patients revealed that patient age (odds ratio [OR] 2.79, p = .001) and neurologic condition (OR 2.66, p < .001) were significantly associated with mortality. Analysis of ICU patients revealed a 2.98‐fold increased odds of death in NKSOT compared with NSOT patients (p = .013).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the importance of transplant status in predicting adverse clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized or admitted to the ICU with COVID‐19, especially for NKSOT patients. Transplant status and comorbidities, including age, could be used to risk stratify patients with COVID‐19. This data suggests that immunosuppression contributes to COVID‐19 disease severity and mortality and may have implications for managing immunosuppression, especially for critically ill patients admitted to the ICU.

image
Reduced neutralizing antibody potency of COVID‐19 convalescent vaccinated plasma against SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant
Authors: Gallian Pierre , Amroun Abdennour , Laperche Syria , Le Cam Sophie , Brisbarre Nadège , Malard Lucile , Nurtop Elif , Isnard Christine , Richard Pascale , Morel Pascal , Tiberghien Pierre , de Lamballerie Xavier
Published: May 2022

Background and Objective

The SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant displays increased infectiveness as well as mutations resulting in reduced neutralizing activity of antibodies acquired after vaccination or infection involving earlier strains. To assess the ability of vaccinated COVID‐19 convalescent plasma (CCP‐V) collected before November 2021 to seroneutralize Omicron, we compared neutralizing antibody (nAb) titres of 63 samples against Omicron and earlier B.1 (D614G) strains.

Methods and Findings

Relationship between anti‐Omicron titres and IgG anti‐S1 levels (binding arbitrary unit: BAU/ml) was studied. Although correlated, anti‐Omicron titres were significantly lower than anti‐B.1 titres (median = 80 [10–1280] vs. 1280 [160–10,240], p < 0.0001). Omicron nAb titres and IgG anti‐S1 levels were correlated (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient = 0.67). Anti‐S1 IgG threshold at 7000 BAU/ml may allow to discard CCP‐V without anti‐Omicron activity (nAb titre <40). Conversely, only those with highest titres (≥160) had systematically anti‐S1 IgG levels >7000 BAU/ml.

Conclusion

A fraction of CCP‐V collected before November 2021 retains anti‐Omicron seroneutralizing activity that may be selected by quantitative anti‐IgG assays, but such assays do not easily allow the identification of ‘high‐titre’ CCP‐V. However, collecting plasma from vaccinated donors recently infected with Omicron may be the best option to provide optimal CCP‐V for immunocompromised patients infected with this variant.
BIOMATH 2018 International Conference and School for Young Scientists
Authors: Wolkowicz Gail S. K.
Published: May 2022

The conference was an international event that attracted participants from 25 countries. The conference took place at the Institute of Mechanics of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. It also obtained administrative and logistical support from the Institute of Mathematics and Informatics. As is the tradition, the BIOMATH conference series places a strong emphasis on the support and promotion of young scientists and this meeting followed this tradition. This was made possible by additional support from Biomath Forum and the South African DST/NRF SARChI Chair in Mathematical Models and Methods in Bioengineering and Biosciences at the University of Pretoria.
Analysis of a Bioreactor Model with Microbial Growth Phases and Spatial Dispersal
Authors: Ivanov Tihomir , Dimitrova Neli
Published: May 2022

We consider a batch mode bioreactor model proposed by Alt and Markov (2012). The model is developed using the fact that the bacterial growth undergoes four phases: lag, log, stationary and death phase. First, we modify the model by introducing additional (the so-called transport) terms to describe continuously stirred bioreactor dynamics. For this model we compute the equilibrium points and study their asymptotic stability. Some basic properties of the solutions like uniform boundedness and uniform persistence are also established. Then we extend the model by adding diffusion terms to the equations. The latter reaction-diffusion equations are studied numerically. Thereby, solutions in the form of travelling waves are found.
Influence of Accident-Tolerant Fuel With Steel Cladding for Sustainable Heat Transfer in the Reactor Core of VVER-1200
Authors: Sanglap MD Tanzib Ehsan , Shahriar Sazidur Rahman
Published: May 2022

Since the events at the Fukushima–Daiichi nuclear power plant, there has been increased interest in developing accident tolerant fuel (ATF) to avoid accidents for light water reactors where Uranium-Silicide-based fuel has an excellent field to minimize the hydrogen hazards. Similarly, steel cladding is at the center of attraction for researchers nowadays. In this research, the feasibility of using Uranium-Silicides (i.e., U3Si, U3Si2, and U3Si5) combined with different types of austenitic steel (i.e., AISI) was investigated to improve the safety performance. A three-dimensional (3D) computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-coded star ccm+ model was used to assess heat transfer performance in the hexagonal fuel assembly of a supercritical water-cooled reactor VVER-1200. Utilizing the computational environment of star ccm+, the test analysis was conducted for a portion of fuel height using the realizable K-Epsilon Two-Layer Wall turbulence model. This analysis showed that the combination of U3Si2 fuel with AISI-348 cladding got superiority over other ATF-AISI fuel-claddings assemblies to use in the reactor core of VVER-1200 because of their lower central fuel temperature value with good mechanical and thermal advantages. This work also derived an empirical heat transfer coefficient equation to guide the relevant future investigations on the thermal analysis of the core.
Suboptimal State Tracking Control Applied to a Nonlinear Fractional-Order Slewing Motion Flexible Structure
Authors: Bueno Átila M. , Daltin Daniel C. , Serni Paulo J. A. , Balthazar José M. , Tusset Angelo M.
Published: May 2022

The control of slewing motion flexible structures is important to a number of systems found in engineering and physical sciences applications, such as aerospace, automotive, robotics, and atomic force microscopy. In this kind of system, the controller must provide a stable and well-damped behavior for the flexible structure vibrations, with admissible control signal amplitudes. Recently, many works have used fractional-order derivatives to model complex and nonlinear dynamical behavior present in the mentioned systems. In order to perform digital computer-based control of fractional-order dynamical systems, a time discretization of the equations is necessary. In many cases, the Grünwald–Letnikov method is used, resulting in an implicit integration method. In this work, a nonlinear slewing motion flexible structure is modeled considering a fractional-order viscous damping in the flexible beam motion. To obtain an explicit integration method, based on the Grünwald–Letnikov definition, the discretization of the dynamical equations is performed considering the existence of sample and hold circuits. In addition, real-time suboptimal infinite horizon tracking control system strategies, namely, the linear quadratic tracking and the state-dependent Riccati equation tracking controller, are designed and implemented to control the fractional-order slewing motion flexible system. The general behavior and performance of the control systems are tested for parameter uncertainties related to the order of the fractional derivatives.
Design, Analysis, and Experiment of a Scissor-Shaped Deployable Metamorphic Hand
Authors: Sun Hanlin , Sun Wei , Chen Bin , Hou Yu , Kong Jianyi
Published: May 2022

It is necessary to innovatively design the dexterity and applicability of end-effector to solve the last centimeter problem of automated production. This paper presents a scissor-shaped deployable metamorphic hand (SDMH). First, a scissor-shaped sub-mechanism module mechanism was designed with three metamorphic configurations. A novel connection mechanism was introduced. It can realize the passively adaptive grasping motion and avoid the bifurcation position problem in the clamping process. Subsequently, the three configurations of SDMH were analyzed by the sub-constraint function. Then, the conversion relationship between the various configurations was established through the adjacency matrix, which fundamentally explains the metamorphic mechanism of SDMH. Furthermore, the kinematics analysis of the SDMH was described by the D–H method. Kinematic equations of the single finger can be established in the different three grasping configurations using the matrix transformation method. The working space of SDMH can be obtained by numerical simulation. Finally, the physical prototype of SDMH was manufactured to verify the deployable and grasping performance of SDMH.
In-Situ Visualization of the Transition Metal Dissolution in Layered Cathodes
Authors: Qian Guannan , Zan Guibin , Li Jizhou , Zhang Jin , Pianetta Piero , Liu Yijin
Published: May 2022

Transition metal dissolution in layered cathodes is one of the most intractable issues that deteriorate the battery performance and lifetime. It not only aggravates the structure degradation in cathode but also damages the solid electrolyte interphase in anode and even induces the formation of lithium dendrites. In this work, we investigate the dissolution behaviors of polycrystalline and single-crystalline layered cathode via operando X-ray imaging techniques. The cathode particle morphology appears to have a significant impact on the evolution of the dissolution dynamics. As a mitigation strategy, we reveal that doping with a trace amount of Zr in the layered cathode could improve its robustness against the transition metal dissolution. Our finding provides valuable insights for designing the next-generation highly stable layered battery cathodes.
Cognitive load does not increase reliance on speaker information in phonetic categorization
Authors: Reese Helen , Reinisch Eva
Published: May 2022

Past research on speech perception has shown that speaker information, such as gender, affects phoneme categorization. Additionally, studies on listening under divided attention have argued that cognitive load decreases attention to phonetic detail and increases reliance on higher-level cues such as lexical information. This study examines the processing of speaker information under divided attention. The results of two perception experiments indicate that additional cognitive load does not increase listeners' reliance on the gender of the speaker during phoneme categorization tasks. This suggests that the processing of speaker information may pattern with lower-level acoustic rather than higher-level lexical information.
Associations Between Lower Limb Isometric Torque, Isokinetic Torque, and Explosive Force With Phases of Reactive Stepping in Young, Healthy Adults
Authors: Saumur Tyler M. , Nestico Jacqueline , Mochizuki George , Perry Stephen D. , Mansfield Avril , Mathur Sunita
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to determine the relationship between lower limb muscle strength and explosive force with force plate–derived timing measures of reactive stepping. Nineteen young, healthy adults responded to 6 perturbations using an anterior lean-and-release system. Foot-off, swing, and restabilization times were estimated from force plates. Peak isokinetic torque, isometric torque, and explosive force of the knee extensors/flexors and plantar/dorsiflexors were measured using isokinetic dynamometry. Correlations were run based on a priori hypotheses and corrected for the number of comparisons (Bonferroni) for each variable. Knee extensor explosive force was negatively correlated with swing time (r = −.582, P = .009). Knee flexor peak isometric torque also showed a negative association with restabilization time (r = −.459, P = .048); however, this was not statistically significant after correcting for multiple comparisons. There was no significant relationship between foot-off time and knee or plantar flexor explosive force (P > .025). These findings suggest that there may be utility to identifying specific aspects of reactive step timing when studying the relationship between muscle strength and reactive balance control. Exercise training aimed at improving falls risk should consider targeting specific aspects of muscle strength depending on specific deficits in reactive stepping.
The adenosine analog prodrug ATV006 is orally bioavailable and has preclinical efficacy against parental SARS-CoV-2 and variants
Authors: Cao Liu , Li Yingjun , Yang Sidi , Li Guanguan , Zhou Qifan , Sun Jing , Xu Tiefeng , Yang Yang , Liao Ruyan , Shi Yongxia , Yang Yujian , Zhu Tiaozhen , Huang Siyao , Ji Yanxi , Cong Feng , Luo Yinzhu , Zhu Yujun , Luan Hemi , Zhang Huan , Chen Jingdiao , Liu Xue , Luo Renru , Liu Lihong , Wang Ping , Yu Yang , Xing Fan , Ke Bixia , Zheng Huanying , Deng Xiaoling , Zhang Wenyong , Lin Chuwen , Shi Mang , Li Chun-Mei , Zhang Yu , Zhang Lu , Dai Jun , Lu Hongzhou , Zhao Jincun , Zhang Xumu , Guo Deyin
Published: May 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus driving the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, continues to rapidly evolve. Because of the limited efficacy of vaccination in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and continuous emergence of variants of concern (VOCs), orally bioavailable and broadly efficacious antiviral drugs are urgently needed. Previously, we showed that the parent nucleoside of remdesivir, GS-441524, has potent anti–SARS-CoV-2 activity. Here, we report that esterification of the 5′-hydroxyl moieties of GS-441524 markedly improved antiviral potency. This 5′-hydroxyl-isobutyryl prodrug, ATV006, demonstrated excellent oral bioavailability in rats and cynomolgus monkeys and exhibited potent antiviral efficacy against different SARS-CoV-2 VOCs in vitro and in three mouse models. Oral administration of ATV006 reduced viral loads and alleviated lung damage when administered prophylactically and therapeutically to K18-hACE2 mice challenged with the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2. These data indicate that ATV006 represents a promising oral antiviral drug candidate for SARS-CoV-2.
Nanopore-Based Detection of Viral RNA Modifications
Authors: Abebe Jonathan S. , Verstraten Ruth , Depledge Daniel P.
Published: May 2022

The chemical modification of ribonucleotides plays an integral role in the biology of diverse viruses and their eukaryotic host cells. Mapping the precise identity, location, and abundance of modified ribonucleotides remains a key goal of many studies aimed at characterizing the function and importance of a given modification.
Gut Microbial Stability is Associated with Greater Endurance Performance in Athletes Undertaking Dietary Periodization
Authors: Furber Matthew J. W. , Young Gregory R. , Holt Giles S. , Pyle Simone , Davison Glen , Roberts Michael G. , Roberts Justin D. , Howatson Glyn , Smith Darren L.
Published: May 2022

Dietary periodization is employed to improve endurance exercise performance but may impact on gut microbial communities. Bacteriophage are implicated in bacterial cell homeostasis and have been identified as biomarkers of disequilibrium in the gut ecosystem possibly brought about through dietary periodization.
Dissecting Listeria monocytogenes Persistent Contamination in a Retail Market Using Whole-Genome Sequencing
Authors: Wang Yan , Luo Lijuan , Ji Shunshi , Li Qun , Wang Hong , Zhang Zhendong , Mao Pan , Sun Hui , Li Lingling , Wang Yiqian , Xu Jianguo , Lan Ruiting , Ye Changyun
Published: May 2022

Contamination of food by
Listeria monocytogenes
at retail level leads to potential consumption of contaminated food with high risk of human infection. Our previous study found persistent contamination of CC87
L. monocytogenes
from a retail market in China through pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and multilocus sequence typing.