bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria Shewanella putrefaciens and Cronobacter dublinensis enhance drought tolerance of pearl millet by modulating hormones and stress‐responsive genes
Authors: Manjunatha Booragamakalapalli Subbarayappa , Nivetha Nagarajan , Krishna Gopinathan Kumar , Elangovan Allimuthu , Pushkar Suchitra , Chandrashekar Narayanappa , Aggarwal Chetana , Asha Arambam Devi , Chinnusamy Viswanathan , Raipuria Ritesh Kumar , Watts Anshul , Bandeppa Sonth , Dukare Ajinath Shridhar , Paul Sangeeta
Published: March 2022

Drought is a major abiotic stress that affects crop productivity. Endophytic bacteria have been found to alleviate the adverse effects of drought on plants. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of two endophytic bacteria Shewanella putrefaciens strain MCL‐1 and Cronobacter dublinensis strain MKS‐1 on pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) under drought stress conditions. Pearl millet plants were grown under three water levels: field capacity (FC), mild drought stress (MD), and severe drought stress (SD). The effects of inoculation on plant growth, physiological attributes, phytohormone content, and drought stress‐responsive genes were assessed. The inoculation of pearl millet seeds with endophytes significantly improved shoot and root dry weight and root architecture of plants grown under FC and drought stress conditions. There was a significant increase in relative water content and proline accumulation in the inoculated plants. Among the phytohormones analyzed, the content of ABA and IAA was significantly higher in endophyte‐treated plants under all moisture regimes than in uninoculated plants. C. dublinensis‐inoculated plants had higher GA content than uninoculated plants under all moisture regimes. The expression level of genes involved in phytohormone biosynthesis (SbNCED, SbGA20oX, and SbYUC) and coding drought‐responsive transcription factors (SbAP2, SbSNAC1 and PgDREB2A) was significantly higher under SD in endophyte‐inoculated plants than in uninoculated plants. Thus, these endophytic bacteria presumably enhanced the tolerance of pearl millet to drought stress by modulating root growth, plant hormones, physiology and the expression of genes involved in drought tolerance.
Lower activity linkage between caregivers and persons with neurodegenerative diseases is associated with greater caregiver anxiety
Authors: Chen Kuan‐Hua , Casey James J. , Connelly Dyan E. , Merrilees Jennifer , Yang Chien‐Ming , Miller Bruce L. , Levenson Robert W.
Published: March 2022

Physiological linkage refers to the degree to which two individuals' central/peripheral physiological activities change in coordinated ways. Previous research has focused primarily on linkage in the autonomic nervous system in laboratory settings, particularly examining how linkage is associated with social behavior and relationship quality. In this study, we examined how linkage in couples' daily somatic activity (e.g., synchronized movement measured from wrist sensors)—another important aspect of peripheral physiology—was associated with relationship quality and mental health. We focused on persons with neurodegenerative diseases (PWNDs) and their spousal caregivers, whose linkage might have direct implications for the PWND–caregiver relationship and caregiver’s health. Twenty‐two PWNDs and their caregivers wore wristwatch actigraphy devices that provided continuous measurement of activity over 7 days at home. PWND–caregiver activity linkage was quantified by the degree to which activity was “in‐phase” or “anti‐phase” linked (i.e., coordinated changes in the same or opposite direction) during waking hours, computed by correlating minute‐by‐minute activity levels averaged using a 10‐min rolling window. Caregivers completed well‐validated surveys that assessed their mental health (including anxiety and depression) and relationship quality with the PWND. We found that lower in‐phase activity linkage, but not anti‐phase linkage, was associated with higher caregiver anxiety. These dyad‐level effects were robust, remaining significant after adjusting for somatic activity at the individual level. No effects were found for caregiver depression or relationship quality. These findings suggest activity linkage and wearables may be useful for day‐by‐day monitoring of vulnerable populations such as family caregivers. We offered several possible explanations for our findings.
‘Actually’ again
Authors: Stephanou Yannis
Published: March 2022

Some authors have suggested that, contrary to what is usually thought, ‘actually’ and similar expressions (‘in fact’, ‘in reality’, etc.) cannot effect a return to the actual world when used in a context generated by a different modal operator, and so are quite unlike the actuality operator of modal logic. I argue that they can induce such a return. The argument involves comparing them with other devices that can play a similar role, such as scope and mood, and examining the effect of ‘actually’ and the like in a range of different sentences.
Transnational Machine Learning with Screens for Flagging Bid-Rigging Cartels
Authors: Huber Martin , Imhof David , Ishii Rieko
Published: March 2022

We investigate the transnational transferability of statistical screening methods originally developed using Swiss data for detecting bid-rigging cartels in Japan. We find that combining screens with machine learning (either a random forest or an ensemble method consisting of six different algorithms) to classify collusive versus competitive tenders entails (depending on the model) correct classification rates of 88%–97% when training and testing the method on the Okinawa bid-rigging cartel. As in Switzerland, bid rigging in Okinawa reduced the variance and increased the asymmetry in the distribution of bids. When training the models in data from one country to test their performance in the data from the other country, imbalance increases between the correct prediction of truly collusive and competitive tenders for all machine learners and classification rates go down substantially when using the random forest as machine learner, due to some screens for competitive Japanese tenders being similar to those for collusive Swiss tenders. Demeaning the screens reduces such distortions due to institutional differences across countries such that correct classification rates based on training in one and testing in the other country amount to 85% and to 90% when using the ensemble method as machine learner, which generally outperforms the random forest.
Basic prerequisites for on‐line, high‐volume hemodiafiltration
Authors: Ward Richard A.
Published: March 2022

High‐volume hemodiafiltration involves filtration of >23 L/treatment and its replacement by sterile non‐pyrogenic substitution fluid, while maintaining the patient's fluid balance. That volume of substitution fluid precludes the use of prepackaged sterile fluid. Instead, substitution fluid must be prepared on‐line using machines that incorporate a series of bacteria‐ and endotoxin‐retentive filters. The sterilizing ultrafilters are validated to deliver sterile, non‐pyrogenic fluid to the patient when operated according to the machine manufacturer's instructions and in compliance with international standards and regulatory oversight. A successful hemodiafiltration program also places important responsibilities on the user. Specifically, the user is responsible for ensuring that the dialysis water or dialysis fluid delivered to the sterilizing filters of the hemodiafiltration machine meets the machine manufacturer's specifications and is consistent with the quality used in the sterilization validation process. The user is also responsible for ensuring that the treatment prescription allows a filtration volume >23 L/treatment to be achieved by careful selection of a dialyzer, blood flow rate and treatment time. Questions related to assurance that the substitution fluid will routinely be sterile and non‐pyrogenic have limited the uptake of on‐line hemodiafiltration as a therapeutic option in some countries, such as the United States.
Hemodiafiltration outcomes in special situations
Authors: Golper Thomas A.
Published: March 2022

This Seminars in Dialysis Hemodiafiltration Symposium includes many references regarding the outcomes of this modality in general. The results in special populations are included in some of the studies, but have not been compared in a systematic manner. The purpose of this review is to compile those outcome results in select populations.
Sunni participation in a Shi‘i‐led Iraq: Identity politics and the road to redefining the national ethos
Authors: Machlis Elisheva
Published: March 2022

This article examines group membership and inter‐group relations in Iraq through the prism of Sunni political participation in the post‐2003 era. There has been much scholarly interest in this process of regime change, which has generally focused on the Sunni insurgency and the Shi‘i shift towards sectarianism. Less, however, is known about the Sunni leaders who cooperated with the new Shi‘i‐Kurdish federation. These new Sunni players had little manoeuvring space to truly address the socio‐economic challenges of a marginalized community. Their success lay in placing Sunnis on the political map of the new power‐sharing system, thereby providing an alternative to militant separatism and political exclusivity and paving the way to legitimizing Sunni participation in the political process. Growing realism in the aftermath of the ISIS takeover and acceptance of a civic model may now lead to greater inter‐communal cooperation based on professionalism and pragmatism. Understanding the limits of identity‐based politics can contribute to the emergence of more cross‐communal alliances based on a moderate Islamic outlook, broad affinity with an Arab heritage, and all‐Iraqi inclusivity. This case illustrates that identity politics is not detached from power, interests, and majority‐minority relations. Therefore, all of these components should be woven together to fully comprehend the role played by identity as part of the political dynamics.
Imbalanced distribution of group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and ILC precursors in peripheral blood of patients with primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Li Haolong , Zhan Haoting , Cheng Linlin , Yan Songxin , Wang Li , Li Yongzhe
Published: March 2022

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), a novel group of innate immune cells, play a key role in the early immune response via rapidly reacting to signals expressed by tissue‐resident cells. ILCs contribute to some autoimmune diseases. We aim to investigate the proportions of circulating ILC subgroups in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Overall, 48 patients with PBC and 24 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. Circulating ILCs and cytokine production were detected by flow cytometry. The proportions of total ILCs, ILC precursors (ILCPs) and ILCP/ILC2 ratio increased and that of ILC2s decreased in patients with PBC. ILC2 proportion was negatively correlated with gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The proportion of ILCPs and ILCP/ILC2 ratio were positively correlated with alkaline phosphatase, GGT, ALT and AST. ILC2 proportion was significantly decreased in the ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) ‐non‐responder group compared with the UDCA‐responder group, whereas the proportion of ILCPs and ILCP/ILC2 were ratio significantly increased. The proportions of CD38+ILC2s, CD38+ILCPs, CD45RO+ILC2s and CD45RO+ILCPs were significantly higher in patients with PBC than in HCs. Levels of IL‐17A producing ILCs were higher in patients with PBC than in HCs. PBC is accompanied by alterations in circulating ILCs. The proportions of ILC2s, ILCPs, and ILCP/ILC2 ratio were associated with the PBC disease activity. The proportions of ILCPs and ILCP/ILC2 ratio may reflect the UDCA treatment failure in patients with PBC. ILC2s and ILCPs from patients with PBC get activated, these cells may be involved in the pathogenesis of PBC.
Long non‐coding RNAs in systemic lupus erythematosus: New insights into disease pathogenesis and diagnosis
Authors: Chen Xin , Cheng Qi , Wu Huaxiang , Du Yan
Published: March 2022

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a remarkable heterogeneous autoimmune disease that is sometimes hard to diagnose at the early stage and can lead to premature mortality. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of non‐protein‐coding RNAs greater than 200 nucleotides in length that can regulate gene expression in various human diseases, including SLE. Peripheral blood samples and renal tissue samples from SLE patients were used for study. Abnormally expressed lncRNAs in SLE have been shown to influence several signalling pathways, including the IFN‐I, MAPK and WNT pathways. This can affect cellular phenotypes like cell activation, differentiation skewing, cytokine production and cell apoptosis. Many of the reported lncRNAs may be useful for diagnosing, evaluating progression and predicting potential organ damage in SLE patients. While numerous lncRNAs play important roles in SLE, more basic and clinical studies are warranted to clarify the function of these regulatory molecules and determine their diagnostic value.
The Promise of Sociology of Television: Investigating the Potential of Phenomenological Approaches
Authors: Letak Abigail M.
Published: March 2022

Mills (1959) saw the true potential of sociology in exploring the link between micro‐level human experience and macro‐level societal trends and structures. And yet, sociological inquiry has largely overlooked micro‐level approaches to a common quotidian American experience: watching television. Overemphasis on “top‐down” approaches to studying television leads to three main misconceptions about television‐watching and any micro‐level approach to studying it: that the practice of watching television is too individualistic, too mundane, and too difficult to study. In fact, television‐watching is social in myriad ways and, although mundane in its quotidian nature, is not devoid of complex power dynamics for sociological investigation. Research by scholars in other fields indicates that studying television at the micro‐level is sometimes challenging, but possible. A truly effective and comprehensive sociology of television cannot exist until sociologists use phenomenological approaches to investigate people’s experience of structure in their lives, engaging micro‐ alongside macro‐level perspectives. The promise of sociology of television, then, can only be realized by tapping the potential of phenomenological approaches to create a more complete understanding of television—one that must reconcile the power of institutions with agency, context, and experience in daily life.
Charisma in Right‐Wing Populism: Comparing the View of the Leader and Followers within the Swiss People’s Party
Authors: Favero Adrian
Published: March 2022

The ‘charismatic leader’ is a recurring topic within the literature on populist radical right parties (PRRPs), arguing that charisma is important for the success of these parties. However, most studies assess charismatic leadership only through the perception of the leaders' followers and make no statement on the leaders' perspectives and their role for party institutionalisation. This article compares the supply and the demand sides of charisma by drawing on interviews with the so‐called charismatic leader of the Swiss People's Party (SVP) – Christoph Blocher – and local, regional and national party representatives. The article shows that assessing both perspectives contributes to a better understanding of charisma and its importance for internal leadership in institutionalised PRRPs. The case of the SVP further demonstrates that successful party institutionalisation and a strong internal organisational structure make the party's durability less dependent on the charismatic leader and could lead to efforts of depersonalisation.
The rhetoric of the Brazilian far‐right, built in the streets: The case of Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Bayarri Toscano Gabriel
Published: March 2022

This article is an ethnographic exploration of the construction of far‐right rhetoric in Brazil. It begins with a description of events on the final day of the 2018 election, when Jair Messias Bolsonaro won the presidency. To contextualise this scene, I analyse how far‐right rhetoric was articulated in the Brazilian public sphere from June 2013 until 2018, specifically in the state of Rio de Janeiro, through a series of key events that were fundamental in constructing far‐right identity claims and collective mobilisation into an anti‐corruption and militarised rhetoric in the electoral campaign. The article shows the importance of these specific events in developing what became the ‘Bolsonarist rhetoric’—or Bolsonarismo—as part of a broader international politics of disaffection.
Systematic review: Development of a person‐centered care framework within the context of HIV treatment settings in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Duffy Malia , Madevu‐Matson Caitlin , Posner Jessica E. , Zwick Hana , Sharer Melissa , Powell Antonia M.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Person‐centred care (PCC) meets the needs of individuals by increasing convenience, providing supportive and culturally appropriate services to diverse populations, and engaging families, communities, and stakeholders in planning and provision of care. While the evidence demonstrates that PCC approaches can lead to clinical improvements across the HIV care continuum, it is not yet well defined in the context of HIV service delivery.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted to define PCC practices for HIV treatment services in health facilities in sub‐Saharan Africa. Data synthesis led to the development of a PCC framework including domain and sub‐domain development. The study team used the Effective Public Health Project Practice tool for quantitative studies to assess the quality of the included studies.

Results

Thirty‐one studies from 12 countries met the inclusion criteria, including 56,586 study participants (females 42%–100% and males 0%—58%), resulting in three major domains and 11 sub‐domains. These include staffing (sub‐domains of composition, availability, and competency); service delivery standards (sub‐domains of client feedback mechanisms; service efficiency and integration; convenience and access; and digital health worker support tools); and direct client support services (sub‐domains of psychosocial services, logistics support, client‐agency, and digital client support tools). Twenty‐five of the person‐centred interventions within these domains resulted in improvements in linkage to care, treatment retention, and/or viral suppression.

Conclusions

The PCC framework can help to provide a more consistent classification of HIV treatment interventions and will support improved assessment of these interventions to ensure that people receive personalised care.
Reflexões Acerca das Contradições entre Democracia e Neoliberalismo
Authors: Verbicaro Loiane Prado
Published: March 2022

O artigo, por intermédio de pesquisa bibliográfica de abordagem qualitativa, analisa as vulnerabilidades e contradições entre a democracia como forma política e o neoliberalismo como sistema de acumulação, em razão da incompatibilidade de implementação de uma agenda igualitária e baseada na ampliação da cidadania, que são promessas democráticas, com uma atuação mercadológica e econométrica que se concilia com os interesses da plutocracia financeira, como diretrizes perseguidas pelo neoliberalismo que, longe de implementar um Estado mínimo, viabiliza uma atuação vigilante, por intermédio de uma ação forte e estratégica, de efeito potencializador, em favor do mercado. A política de austeridade fiscal, projetada para financiar cortes de programas sociais e de pesquisas científicas, promover flexibilização de direitos e conceder subsídios às empresas, torna-se incompatível com a promessa democrática de inclusão socioeconômica. O aprofundamento da agenda neoliberal no Brasil fragilizou os valores democráticos, bem como o enfrentamento de uma crise sanitária na escala da pandemia do coronavírus.
Calidad de vida en una población rural afectada por el conflicto armado colombiano, 2020: estudio transversal
Authors: Martínez Veloza Jaime Augusto , Lamus Lemus Francisco , Hernández Rincón Erwin Hernando , Correal Muñoz Camilo Alejandro
Published: March 2022

Introducción. Estudiar la calidad de vida en la población rural puede indicar el camino a seguir para cerrar la brecha de inequidades en salud. Objetivo. Describir la calidad de vida de habitantes de una zona rural afectada por el conflicto armado colombiano utilizando el cuestionario Calidad de Vida de la Organización Mundial de la Salud en su versión abreviada en español (WHOQOL-BREF). Métodos. Estudio observacional transversal en una población rural mayor de edad con muestreo por conveniencia mediante barrido casa a casa que abarcó toda la extensión geográfica de la población. El cálculo de los puntajes del WHOQOL-BREF se efectuó en SPSS 26.0® y el análisis estadístico de las variables de caracterización de la población se realizó en CIETmap 2.2.18®. Resultados. Los promedios de las dimensiones salud física, relaciones sociales y salud psicológica rondaron el valor de 70, mientras que la dimensión medio ambiente exhibió un promedio notoriamente inferior. En las cuatro dimensiones los promedios altos fueron obtenidos por personas jóvenes, con niveles educativos superiores y con trabajo remunerado; en contraste con los promedios bajos observados en personas con morbilidades, necesidades básicas insatisfechas, desplazamiento forzado y pérdida violenta de familiar en primer o segundo grado. Conclusiones. Es imperativo el accionar intersectorial que apropie la salud en todas las políticas junto con la participación social y así propender por la mitigación de las inequidades en salud a partir del abordaje de sus determinantes y en la solución de las necesidades prioritarias de las poblaciones rurales y ruralmente dispersas especialmente aquellas afectadas por el conflicto armado.
Itinerarios burocráticos de mujeres cuidadoras en el sistema de salud en el contexto de la pobreza oculta en Teusaquillo, Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Pineda Restrepo Bibiana del Carmen
Published: March 2022

Introducción. Este artículo explora, con enfoque etnográfico, las dificultades en el acceso a los servicios de salud dentro del contexto de la pobreza oculta en la localidad de Teusaquillo, Bogotá, Colombia. Objetivo. Reconstruir y analizar los itinerarios burocráticos dentro del Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud en casos de vulneración del derecho a la salud en sujetos identificados como pobres ocultos o vulnerables residentes en esta localidad. Métodos. Se realizaron experiencias de observación participante, entrevistas y análisis documental. Resultados. Se observan las complejas asociaciones que se dan en el proceso de coproducción de la realidad, la de los sujetos precarizados o pobres ocultos y su acceso a la salud. Conclusiones. Se reconocen las trayectorias de precarización, así como las narrativas que develan la pobreza oculta en sus múltiples manifestaciones e intersecciones de clase, edad, género y trabajo del cuidado.
Comparison of Thermodynamic Performances in Three Geothermal Power Plants Using Flash Steam
Authors: Farsi Aida , Rosen Marc A.
Published: March 2022

Three geothermal systems, including single-flash, double-flash, and double-flash connected turbine flash geothermal power plants, are compared in terms of electrical power production and exergy efficiency. In the double-flash connected turbine (double-T) geothermal electrical power production systems, the outlet stream from the first steam turbine is recovered in the mixing chamber and combined with the vapor product of the second separator. The thermodynamic model for the single-flash, double-flash, and double-T geothermal systems is developed using energy and exergy balances for each component of the systems. From the thermodynamic model, the optimum flash chambers pressures, at which the electrical power production is a maximum, can be determined. It is found that, for an input geothermal source temperature of 230 °C and an input geothermal water mass flowrate of 230 kg/s, the optimum pressures for the first flash chamber are 300 kPa, 350 kPa, and 350 kPa for the single-flash, double-flash, and double-T geothermal systems, respectively. The electrical power produced in these systems at their corresponding optimum flashing pressures, respectively, are 16,000 kW, 19,500 kW, and 20,600 kW. Also, for the single-flash, double-flash, and double-T geothermal systems, the exergy efficiency at the optimum flash chamber pressures are found to be 44.2%, 47.1%, and 48.5%, respectively.
Run-Time Cutting Force Estimation Based on Learned Nonlinear Frequency Response Function
Authors: Fabro Jacob , Vogl Gregory W. , Qu Yongzhi
Published: March 2022

The frequency response function (FRF) provides an input–output model that describes the system dynamics. Learning the FRF of a mechanical system can facilitate system identification, adaptive control, and condition-based health monitoring. Traditionally, FRFs can be measured by off-line experimental testing, such as impulse response measurements via impact hammer testing. In this paper, we investigate learning FRFs from operational data with a nonlinear regression approach. A regression model with a learned nonlinear basis is proposed for FRF learning for run-time systems under dynamic steady state. Compared with a classic FRF, the data-driven model accounts for both transient and steady-state responses. With a nonlinear function basis, the FRF model naturally handles nonlinear frequency response analysis. The proposed method is tested and validated for dynamic cutting force estimation of machining spindles under various operating conditions. As shown in the results, instead of being a constant linear ratio, the learned FRF can represent different mapping relationships under different spindle speeds and force levels, which accounts for the nonlinear behavior of the systems. It is shown that the proposed method can predict dynamic cutting forces with high accuracy using measured vibration signals. We also demonstrate that the learned data-driven FRF can be easily applied with the few-shot learning scheme to machine tool spindles with different frequency responses when limited training samples are available.
Numerical Investigation of the Fan Flutter Mechanism Related to Acoustic Propagation Characteristics
Authors: Dong Xu , Zhang Yanfeng , Lu Xingen , Zhang Yingjie , Gan Jiuliang
Published: March 2022

In this study, the flutter mechanism related to acoustic propagation characteristics of a wide-chord fan rotor was investigated numerically. The first bending mode and its two and three nodal diameters traveling wave patterns were considered. The unsteady disturbance induced by the blade vibration in the duct gradually changed from cut-off to cut-on mode by increasing the blade frequency. Flutter occurred in some specific frequency range. The upstream cut-on and downstream cut-off condition with the risk of flutter previously identified in other studies was also observed in this paper. A new flutter risk frequency in which the blade frequency was less than the upstream cut-on frequency was found. The results showed that the effects of flow features and acoustic propagation characteristics on aeroelasticity were independent. To explain why flutter was more likely to occur near stall, two sets of frequencies representing different acoustic propagation characteristics were selected to carry out aeroelastic simulations for different working conditions along the same speed line. When flutter occurred, the suction side always provided positive damping, and the pressure side always provided negative damping. This study analyzed the effect of different flow features, such as shock and radial migration, in detail. The phase difference between the pressure fluctuations on the pressure side and the blade velocity played a vital role in fan flutter.
Promoting Physical Activity Policy: The Development of the MOVING Framework
Authors: Oldridge-Turner Kate , Kokkorou Margarita , Sing Fiona , Klepp Knut-Inge , Rutter Harry , Helleve Arnfinn , Sinclair Bryony , Meincke Louise , Mitrou Giota , Wiseman Martin , Allen Kate
Published: March 2022

Background: Considering the large health burden of physical inactivity, effective physical activity promotion is a “best buy” for noncommunicable disease and obesity prevention. The MOVING policy framework was developed to promote and monitor government policy actions to increase physical activity as part of the EU Horizon 2020 project “Confronting Obesity: Co-creating policy with youth (CO-CREATE).” Method: A scanning exercise, documentary review of key international policy documents, and thematic analysis of main recommendations were conducted. Themes were reviewed as part of a consultation with physical activity experts. Results: There were 6 overarching policy framework areas: M—make opportunities and initiatives that promote physical activity in schools, the community, and sport and recreation; O—offer physical activity opportunities in the workplace and training in physical activity promotion across multiple professions; V—visualize and enact structures and surroundings that promote physical activity; I—implement transport infrastructure and opportunities that support active societies; N—normalize and increase physical activity through public communication that motivates and builds behavior change skills; and G—give physical activity training, assessment, and counseling in health care settings. Conclusions: The MOVING framework can identify policy actions needed, tailor options suitable for populations, and assess whether approaches are sufficiently comprehensive.
Biased agonists of the chemokine receptor CXCR3 differentially signal through Gα
i
:β-arrestin complexes
Authors: Zheng Kevin , Smith Jeffrey S. , Eiger Dylan S. , Warman Anmol , Choi Issac , Honeycutt Christopher C. , Boldizsar Noelia , Gundry Jaimee N. , Pack Thomas F. , Inoue Asuka , Caron Marc G. , Rajagopal Sudarshan
Published: March 2022

G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell surface receptors and signal through the proximal effectors, G proteins and β-arrestins, to influence nearly every biological process. The G protein and β-arrestin signaling pathways have largely been considered separable; however, direct interactions between Gα proteins and β-arrestins have been described that appear to be part of a distinct GPCR signaling pathway. Within these complexes, Gα
i/o
, but not other Gα protein subtypes, directly interacts with β-arrestin, regardless of the canonical Gα protein that is coupled to the GPCR. Here, we report that the endogenous biased chemokine agonists of CXCR3 (CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11), together with two small-molecule biased agonists, differentially formed Gα
i
:β-arrestin complexes. Formation of the Gα
i
:β-arrestin complexes did not correlate well with either G protein activation or β-arrestin recruitment. β-arrestin biosensors demonstrated that ligands that promoted Gα
i
:β-arrestin complex formation generated similar β-arrestin conformations. We also found that Gα
i
:β-arrestin complexes did not couple to the mitogen-activated protein kinase ERK, as is observed with other receptors such as the V2 vasopressin receptor, but did couple with the clathrin adaptor protein AP-2, which suggests context-dependent signaling by these complexes. These findings reinforce the notion that Gα
i
:β-arrestin complex formation is a distinct GPCR signaling pathway and enhance our understanding of the spectrum of biased agonism.
Impact of Acquired Broad-Spectrum β-Lactamases on Susceptibility to Cefiderocol and Newly Developed β-Lactam/β-Lactamase Inhibitor Combinations in Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Poirel Laurent , Ortiz de la Rosa Jose-Manuel , Sadek Mustafa , Nordmann Patrice
Published: March 2022

The ability of broad-spectrum β-lactamases to reduce the susceptibility to ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA), ceftolozane-tazobactam (C/T), imipenem-relebactam, meropenem-vaborbactam, aztreonam-avibactam (AZA), and cefiderocol (FDC) was evaluated both in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
and in
Escherichia coli
using isogenic backgrounds. Although metallo-β-lactamases conferred resistance in most cases, except for AZA, several clavulanic-acid-inhibited extended-spectrum β-lactamases (PER, BEL, SHV) had a significant impact on the susceptibility to CZA, C/T, and FDC.
Pharmacodynamics of Meropenem and Tobramycin for Neonatal Meningoencephalitis: Novel Approaches to Facilitate the Development of New Agents to Address the Challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Farrington Nicola , McEntee Laura , Johnson Adam , Unsworth Jennifer , Darlow Christopher , Jimenez-Valverde Ana , Hornik Christoph , Greenberg Rachel , Schwartz Julie , Das Shampa , Hope William
Published: March 2022

Neonatal sepsis is an underrecognized burden on health care systems throughout the world. Antimicrobial drug resistance (AMR) is increasingly prevalent and compromises the use of currently recommended first-line agents.
Quantified Detection of Treponema pallidum DNA by PCR Assays in Urine and Plasma of Syphilis Patients
Authors: Wang Cuini , Zheng Xin , Guan Zhifang , Zou Danyang , Gu Xin , Lu Haikong , Shi Mei , Zhou Pingyu
Published: March 2022

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused byTreponema pallidumsub.pallidum.T. pallidumcan invade many organs, andT. pallidumDNA can be detected in various tissues and fluids. The results reported here demonstrated thatT. pallidumDNA could be detected in urine in patients at all stages of syphilis.
GVPC Medium Manufactured without Oxygen Improves the Growth of
Legionella
spp. and Exhibits Enhanced Selectivity Properties
Authors: Casino Pablo , López Asunción , Peiró Sara , Ríos Martín , Ríos Santiago , Porta Aldous , Agustí Gemma , Asensio Daniel , Marqués Ana María , Piqué Núria
Published: March 2022

Currently, GVPC is a recommended medium for the detection of
Legionella
spp. in water samples. However, recovery of
Legionella
spp. and selectivity properties can be improved.
The KPg boundary Chicxulub impact-extinction hypothesis: The winding road towards a solid theory
Authors: Smit J.
Published: March 2022

Along with the origin of life, the quest for the ultimate cause of the end of the dinosaurs and ~72% of other species is one of the most publicized questions in the history of our planet. So, it probably should not have come as a surprise that when Walter Alvarez and his team launched the impact-extinction theory, the opposition and the resistance against the theory was strong from the beginning and continues up to the present day. This paper follows the winding road around the roadblocks that were set up against the theory and how both the opposition against and accumulation of new data, e.g., the finding of the Chicxulub impact structure and extraterrestrial Cr isotope ratios to further develop the theory, went hand in hand. Often the roadblocks were overcome, but new ones were set up, and in the struggle to surmount these, the proponents were forced to look back on their arguments, to carefully re-formulate their viewpoints, and to check whether tunnel-vision had developed that might prevent seeing the data available in a different light. However, looking back on the competition among proponents and opponents 40 years later, the impact-extinction theory is stronger than ever before. It has survived and matured from a hypothesis into a well-established theory, although many questions remain to be solved.
Arc-continent collision during culmination of Proto-Tethyan Ocean closure in the Central Qilian belt, NE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yan Zhen , Fu Changlei , Aitchison Jonathan C. , Niu Manlan , Buckman Solomon , Xiao Wenjiao , Zhou Renjie , Chen Lei , Li Junhui
Published: March 2022

Accurate lithostratigraphy framework of the Central Qilian belt is key to understand subduction-collision of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean in the NE Tibetan Plateau. The Dongchagou and the Moshigou formations share similar detrital zircon age populations with youngest age peak at ca. 1.15–1.21 Ga, which is consistent with the granitoid gneiss of the Liujiatai Formation. In combination with rock assemblages, metamorphic facies, and associated oldest granitoid plutons, we revised Precambrian lithostratigraphy of the Central Qilian belt as the >1.2 Ga Huangyuan Group and the ca. 1200–930 Ma Huangzhong Group in this study. The former is the same as the Liujiatai Formation, whereas the later includes the Dongchagou and Moshigou formations. Siliciclastic turbidites of the Qingshipo Formation gradually pass upward into carbonates of the Huashishan Group, we therefore ascribe them to the Huashishan Group. This group unconformably overlies the Precambrian basement of the Central Qilian belt and consists of continental slope to coastal plain deposits with a bi-direction of the S- and N-ward paleocurrent. These sediments contain abundant metamorphic, magmatic, and minor ophiolitic detritus with main age populations of ca. 910 Ma, ca. 487 Ma, and ca. 447 Ma detrital zircons, probably derived from the Central and South Qilian belts. The basement of the Huangzhong Group experienced 440– 430 Ma continent-continent collision-related metamorphism and deformation. These results and regional geology demonstrate that the Huashishan Group was formed by arc-continent collision deposition during culmination of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean closure in the Qilian orogenic belt, NE Tibetan Plateau.
Supplemental Material: Ancient roots of tungsten in western North America
Authors: Elongo Vanessa , Lecumberri-Sanchez Pilar , al. et
Published: March 2022

Appendix S1 (detailed geology of Cantung and Mactung, Canada); Appendix S2 (materials) Appendix S3 (methods); Appendix S4 (supplemental Figure S1 and details for data presented in figures); Dataset S1 (data presented in Figure 3 and Figure S1); and Dataset S2 (data presented in Figure 4).
Childhood, teenage and young adult cancer diagnosis during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based observational cohort study in England
Authors: Saatci Defne , Oke Jason , Harnden Anthony , Hippisley-Cox Julia
Published: March 2022

Objective

To investigate childhood, teenage and young adult cancer diagnostic pathways during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in England.

Design

Population-based cohort study.

Setting and participants

QResearch, a nationally representative primary care database, linked to hospital admission, mortality and cancer registry data, was used to identify childhood, teenage and young adult cancers (0–24 years) diagnosed between 1 January 2017 and 15 August 2020.

Main outcomes

Main outcomes of interest were: (1) number of incident cancer diagnoses per month, (2) diagnostic, treatment time intervals and (3) cancer-related intensive care admissions.

Results

2607 childhood, teenage and young adult cancers were diagnosed from 1 January 2017 to 15 August 2020; 380 were diagnosed during the pandemic period. Overall, 17% (95% CI −28.0% to −4.0%) reduction in the incidence rate ratio of cancers was observed during the pandemic. Specific decreases were seen for central nervous system tumour (−38% (95% CI −52% to −21%)) and lymphoma (−28% (95% CI −45% to −5%)) diagnoses. Additionally, childhood cancers diagnosed during the pandemic were significantly more likely to have intensive care admissions (adjusted OR 2.2 (95% CI 1.33 to 3.47)). Median time-to-diagnosis did not significantly differ across periods (+4.5 days (95% CI −20.5 to +29.5)), while median time-to-treatment was shorter during the pandemic (−0.7 days (95% CI −1.1 to −0.3)).

Conclusions

Collectively, our findings of a significant reduction in cancer diagnoses and increase in intensive care admissions provide initial insight into the changes that occurred to childhood, teenage and young adult cancer diagnostic pathways during the first wave of the pandemic.
Paediatric brain MRI findings following congenital heart surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Alablani Fatmah Jamal , Chan Hoi Shan Asia , Beishon Lucy , Patel Nikil , Almudayni Alanoud , Bu'Lock Frances , Chung Emma ML
Published: March 2022

Objective

This systematic review aimed to establish the relative incidence of new postoperative brain MRI findings following paediatric congenital cardiac surgery.

Design

To distinguish perioperative changes from pre-existing MR findings, our systematic search strategy focused on identifying original research studies reporting both presurgery and postsurgery brain MRI scans. Patient demographics, study methods and brain MR findings were extracted.

Results

Twenty-one eligible publications, including two case-control and one randomised controlled trial, were identified. Pre-existing brain MRI findings were noted in 43% (513/1205) of neonates prior to surgery, mainly white matter injuries (WMI). Surgery was performed at a median age of 8 days with comparison of preoperative and postoperative MR scans revealing additional new postoperative findings in 51% (550/1075) of patients, mainly WMI. Four studies adopted a brain injury scoring system, but the majority did not indicate the severity or time course of findings. In a subgroup analysis, approximately 32% of patients with pre-existing lesions went on to develop additional new lesions postsurgery. Pre-existing findings were not found to confer a higher risk of acquiring brain lesions postoperatively. No evidence was identified linking new MR findings with later neurodevelopmental delay.

Conclusion

This systematic review suggests that surgery approximately doubles the number of patients with new brain lesions.
Birth prevalence of anorectal malformations in England and 5-year survival: a national birth cohort study
Authors: Ford Kathryn , Peppa Maria , Zylbersztejn Ania , Curry Joe I , Gilbert Ruth
Published: March 2022

Objective

To determine the birth prevalence, maternal risk factors and 5-year survival for isolated and complex anorectal malformations.

Design

National birth cohort using hospital admission data and death records.

Setting

All National Health Service England hospitals.

Patients

Live-born singletons delivered from 2002 through 2018, with evidence in the first year of life of a diagnosis of an anorectal malformation and repair during a hospital admission, or anorectal malformation recorded on the death certificate. Cases were further classified as isolated or complex depending on the presence of additional anomalies.

Main outcome measures

Birth prevalence of anorectal malformations per 10 000 live births, risk ratios for isolated and complex anorectal malformation by maternal, infant and birth characteristics, and 5-year survival.

Results

We identified 3325 infants with anorectal malformations among 9 474 147 live-born singletons; 61.7% (n=2050) of cases were complex. Birth prevalence was 3.5 per 10 000 live births (95% CI 3.4 to 3.6). Complex anorectal malformations were associated with maternal age extremes after accounting for other sociodemographic factors. Compared with maternal ages 25–34 years, the risk of complex anorectal malformations was 31% higher for ≥35 years (95% CI 17 to 48) and 13% higher for ≤24 years (95% CI 0 to 27). Among 2376 anorectal malformation cases (n=1450 complex) born from 2002 through 2014, 5-year survival was lower for complex (86.9%; 95% CI 85.1% to 88.5%) than isolated anorectal malformations (98.2%; 95% CI 97.1% to 98.9%). Preterm infants with complex anorectal malformations had the lowest survival (73.4%; 95% CI 68.1% to 78.0%).

Conclusions

Differences in maternal risk factors for isolated and complex anorectal malformations may reflect different underlying mechanisms for occurrence. Five-year survival is high but lowest for preterm children with complex anorectal malformations.
Oesophageal and pulmonary invasive aspergillosis in a patient with multiple myeloma
Authors: Puing Alfredo G , Ross Justine , Parekh Vishwas , Nanayakkara Deepa D
Published: March 2022

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a serious fungal infection that primarily affects patients with prolonged and profound neutropenia, and compromised cell-mediated immunity. Aspergillosis of the oesophagus and gastrointestinal tract is uncommon but seen in advanced cases of disseminated IA. However, it is difficult to diagnose antemortem due to the poor specificity of the symptoms and the absence of characteristic imaging findings. Therefore, the reported cases of gastrointestinal aspergillosis have been associated with high morbidity and mortality, and frequently diagnosed postmortem. Here we present a successful outcome in a patient with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma who had presented with febrile neutropenia, cough and dysphagia, and was diagnosed with disseminated IA comprising of pulmonary and oesophageal involvement. This case highlights the need for a high index of suspicion and the importance of invasive procedures for histopathology and molecular diagnostics to ensure an early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.
Toxic hepatitis-associated aplastic anaemia after dual homeopathic remedies and Gymnema sylvestre use
Authors: Philips Cyriac Abby , Theruvath Arif Hussain , Ravindran Resmi
Published: March 2022

Hepatitis-associated aplastic anaemia (HAAA) is a rare condition characterised by onset of acute hepatitis which is followed by development of severe pancytopenia due to bone marrow failure within 6 months. This syndrome can be precipitated by acute viral infections, but the aetiology remains unknown in the majority. Drug-induced HAAA is extremely rare and has been reported with nutritional and dietary supplements in current literature. We report the first cases of ayurvedic herbal and homeopathic remedies-associated HAAA in two patients which proved fatal in both. Evaluation of patients with acute hepatitis and severe pancytopenia must include a detailed evaluation for complementary and alternative medicine use.
Intradiaphragmatic bronchogenic cyst: report of a rare new case
Authors: Nardi Walter Sebastián , Mata Lautaro , Dezanzo Pablo , Quildrian Sergio Damián
Published: March 2022

Bronchogenic cysts (BCs) are congenital abnormalities commonly found within the mediastinum. Diaphragmatic location is extremely rare. We present a woman in her 60s with an asymptomatic intradiaphragmatic BC. The patient underwent complete surgical resection with primary closure of the left hemidiaphragm. BCs should remain a differential diagnosis of any soft-tissue mass in the region of the diaphragm. Complete surgical resection is recommended even in asymptomatic patients to avoid complications such as infection, rupture, bleeding or malignant transformation.
Pancreatoduodenectomy for monomorphic epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma with duodenal obstruction
Authors: Olecki Elizabeth J , Rakszawski Kevin L , Peng June S
Published: March 2022

We report an unusual case of a woman in her 60s diagnosed with monomorphic epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma who required a pancreatoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) for duodenal obstruction. The patient was initially treated with several cycles of chemotherapy, with persistent disease of the duodenum at D3. She was symptomatic with obstructive symptoms and positron emission tomography (PET)-CT showed disease localised to the duodenum without evidence of active disease elsewhere. The patient underwent pancreatoduodenectomy for both palliation of obstructive symptoms and potential oncological benefit. The patient had mild symptoms of delayed gastric emptying requiring promotility agents postoperatively, but otherwise recovered well after surgery. Unfortunately, surgical pathology revealed diffuse disease through the resected portion of the duodenum and jejunum, with positive proximal and distal margins. We suspect she has diffuse small bowel disease which was occult by CT and PET-CT. Based on this case, we recommend consideration of bypass rather than resection when possible for surgical palliation due to likelihood for extensive bowel involvement.