bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPI1‐related protein inhibits cervical cancer cell progression and prevents macrophage cell migration
Authors: Jin Jing , Du Xin , Zhou Limin , Yao Dongmei , Zou Qian
Published: June 2022

Aim

The functions and molecular mechanisms of SPI1‐related protein (SPIB) were examined in cervical cancer (CC) cells.

Methods

Genes related to miscarriage and prognosis in CC were identified by Kaplan–Meier and differential expression analysis, respectively. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were examined by cell counting kit‐8, flow cytometry, transwell migration, and transwell invasion assays, respectively. The potential functions and molecular mechanisms of SPIB in CC were speculated by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) analysis. The mRNA and protein levels of genes were examined by RT‐qPCR and western blot assays, respectively. The effect of SPIB on macrophage cells was tested by macrophage recruitment assay and bioinformatics analysis.

Results

A total of 753 dysregulated genes were identified in 88 TCGA CC samples with a history of one or more miscarriages versus 208 CC samples with no miscarriage history. Also, 91 genes related to CC prognosis were identified. SPIB, a gene related to both miscarriage and CC prognosis, inhibited Hela cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and facilitated Hela cell apoptosis. GSEA analysis disclosed that SPIB might play vital roles in immunity, chemokine signaling pathway, and macrophage chemotaxis/activation in CC. Moreover, SPIB inhibited C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), C‐C motif chemokine ligand 17 (CCL17), and C‐C motif chemokine ligand 25 (CCL25) expression in Hela cells, and SPIB overexpression in Hela cells hampered THP‐1 cell migration. Higher SPIB expression was associated with less M2 macrophage infiltration in CC.

Conclusions

SPIB inhibited CC‐cell progression and hindered macrophage cell migration in CC.
Bur Choice When Removing Zirconia Restorations
Authors: Keeling Francis L. , Taft Robert M. , Haney Stephan J.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Removal of zirconia restorations can be challenging and time consuming, requiring dental burs with optimal cutting efficiency to minimize iatrogenic complications. Yet, there are very few burs marketed for this purpose and little evidence of their comparative benefit. This study evaluated one specialized bur and compared its cutting efficiency with three general‐purpose burs (one single use and two multiple uses).

Materials and methods

This study was designed to assess the cutting efficiency of 4 burs on a high‐strength zirconia substrate. One of these burs is a multiple‐use bur marketed for high‐strength ceramics (Komet 4ZR), another is a single‐use general‐purpose bur (Piranha 837.012 coarse), and two are multiple‐use general‐purpose burs (Brassler 6837.31.012C coarse and Komet 6837.314.012 coarse). The cutting efficiency of each bur was determined by measuring the time taken to perform serial 2 mm cuts into a block of zirconia. Ten burs in each group were tested with repeated cuts until the time taken for a 2 mm cut was twice that of the first 2 mm cut (50% loss of efficiency). This study was performed under reproducible conditions using a custom‐designed and fabricated rig assembly.

Results

The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the cutting efficiency between bur types. The single‐use general‐purpose bur (Piranha 837.012) was the most efficient for all cut numbers p <2.2 × 10–16. The performance of all burs decreased with each cut, with cutting efficiency dependent on time point/cut number (p = 0.02). The rate of deterioration varied between burs, but this difference was not sufficient to be statistically significant.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that a single‐use bur is more efficient than 3 multiple‐use burs. The cutting efficiency of a single‐use general‐purpose bur (Piranha 837.012 coarse) on Cerec Zirconia Mono L was statistically superior to that of multiple patient use burs in this study, including one marketed for use on high‐strength ceramics. Because single‐use burs are comparatively inexpensive and require no sterilization, they should be strongly considered for the removal of zirconia restorations.
Are early adopters willing to accept frozen, ready‐to‐cook mealworms as a food source?
Authors: Rovai Dominic , Amin Samir , Lesniauskas Ruta , Wilke Kristine , Garza Jeff , Lammert Amy
Published: June 2022

Literature suggests that edible insects are most likely to be accepted when they are presented in the nonvisible form, but is it the only way? This research examines the acceptability of whole, ready‐to‐cook mealworms among early adopters. An online questionnaire was developed and distributed without restriction via email, social media (Facebook) and in‐person referrals. Participants were assigned to predetermined clusters based on their willingness to adopt insects (n = 85 No‐thank‐you's, n = 85 Hideaways, n = 53 Daredevils, and n = 78 Peekaboo's), sent a follow‐up questionnaire which presented a video of frozen, ready‐to‐cook mealworms cooking, and asked their willingness to buy the product. Analysis of variance, Tukey's means comparisons, and principal component analysis maps were used to analyze the data. Early adopters (Daredevils–53% and Peekaboo's–38%), motivated by the novel experience and ease of preparation, would consume frozen, ready‐to‐cook mealworms in a stir‐fry, with vegetables, in a taco/burrito, or with rice.

Practical Applications

This work demonstrates the value of segmentation of consumers. By narrowing the target audience, this work suggests that frozen, ready‐to‐cook mealworms may be a viable product form for a niche segment of consumers. The adoption of mealworms in this form may be beneficial for entomophagy as a whole by increasing exposure and familiarity of insects as a food source. Potential benefits of this research include future product development and consumer evaluation opportunities to help better understand how to develop a product that consumers are willing to purchase in use as a substitute for traditional livestock proteins. Incremental shifts to purchasing edible insects in place of traditional livestock protein will have a positive sustainable impact on the food supply.
The Sleep Revolution project: the concept and objectives
Authors: Arnardottir Erna S. , Islind Anna Sigridur , Óskarsdóttir María , Ólafsdóttir Kristín A. , August Elias , Jónasdóttir Lára , Hrubos‐Strøm Harald , Saavedra Jose M. , Grote Ludger , Hedner Jan , Höskuldsson Sveinbjörn , Ágústsson Jón Skírnir , Jóhannsdóttir Kamilla Rún , McNicholas Walter T. , Pevernagie Dirk , Sund Reijo , Töyräs Juha , Leppänen Timo ,   Sleep Revolution
Published: June 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea is linked to severe health consequences such as hypertension, daytime sleepiness, and cardiovascular disease. Nearly a billion people are estimated to have obstructive sleep apnea with a substantial economic burden. However, the current diagnostic parameter of obstructive sleep apnea, the apnea–hypopnea index, correlates poorly with related comorbidities and symptoms. Obstructive sleep apnea severity is measured by counting respiratory events, while other physiologically relevant consequences are ignored. Furthermore, as the clinical methods for analysing polysomnographic signals are outdated, laborious, and expensive, most patients with obstructive sleep apnea remain undiagnosed. Therefore, more personalised diagnostic approaches are urgently needed. The Sleep Revolution, funded by the European Union's Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme, aims to tackle these shortcomings by developing machine learning tools to better estimate obstructive sleep apnea severity and phenotypes. This allows for improved personalised treatment options, including increased patient participation. Also, implementing these tools will alleviate the costs and increase the availability of sleep studies by decreasing manual scoring labour. Finally, the project aims to design a digital platform that functions as a bridge between researchers, patients, and clinicians, with an electronic sleep diary, objective cognitive tests, and questionnaires in a mobile application. These ambitious goals will be achieved through extensive collaboration between 39 centres, including expertise from sleep medicine, computer science, and industry and by utilising tens of thousands of retrospectively and prospectively collected sleep recordings. With the commitment of the European Sleep Research Society and Assembly of National Sleep Societies, the Sleep Revolution has the unique possibility to create new standardised guidelines for sleep medicine.
Past and recent farming degrades aquatic insect genetic diversity
Authors: Crossley Michael S. , Latimer Christopher E. , Kennedy Christina M. , Snyder William E.
Published: June 2022

Recent declines in once‐common species are triggering concern that an environmental crisis point has been reached. Yet, the lack of long abundance time series data for most species can make it difficult to attribute these changes to anthropogenic causes, and to separate them from normal cycles. Genetic diversity, on the other hand, is sensitive to past and recent environmental changes, and reflects a measure of a populations' potential to adapt to future stressors. Here, we consider whether patterns of genetic diversity among aquatic insects can be linked to historical and recent patterns of land use change. We collated mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) variation for >700 aquatic insect species across the United States, where patterns of agricultural expansion and intensification have been documented since the 1800s. We found that genetic diversity was lowest in regions where cropland was historically (pre‐1950) most extensive, suggesting a legacy of past environmental harm. Genetic diversity further declined where cropland has since expanded, even after accounting for climate and sampling effects. Notably though, genetic diversity also appeared to rebound where cropland has diminished. Our study suggests that genetic diversity at the community level can be a powerful tool to infer potential population declines and rebounds over longer time spans than is typically possible with ecological data. For the aquatic insects that we considered, patterns of land use many decades ago appear to have left long‐lasting damage to genetic diversity that could threaten evolutionary responses to rapid global change.
Ecological specialisation and range size determine intraspecific body size variation in a speciose clade of insect herbivores
Authors: Seifert Carlo L. , Strutzenberger Patrick , Fiedler Konrad
Published: June 2022

The body size of an adult insect is strongly determined by the environmental factors to which it is exposed during growth and development. Insect species confronted with a high environmental variability across their geographical range (i.e. wide ecological niche breadth) may therefore reveal broader variation in body size than those species which are more specialised (i.e. narrow ecological niche). In this study, we aim to investigate whether characteristics related to the ecological niche breadth of a holometabolous insect species (i.e. its ecological specialisation) affect its intraspecific variation in adult body size. By using European geometrid moths as a model group, we specifically tested whether latitudinal range size, larval resource use and voltinism affect intraspecific body size variation. We hypothesised that body size variation will increase along with latitudinal range and larval diet breadth. We further expected that univoltine species reveal a lower body size variation compared to those with multiple generations per year. To test these hypotheses, we compiled a comprehensive trait database for 631 species of European geometrid moths from literature, including information on adult body size, life history and distribution. We further reconstructed a molecular phylogeny including all analysed geometrid species and applied phylogenetic comparative methods in order to test our predictions. In support of our hypotheses, we found that intraspecific size variation is positively related to latitudinal range size and larval diet breadth, and that multivoltine species reveal a higher heterogeneity in body size than taxa with a strictly univoltine life style. Based on our results, we demonstrated that intraspecific body size variation in geometrid moths is negatively related to ecological specialisation. We further suggest that increased variation in body size with increasing niche breadth is a general pattern, which likely applies to many other insect groups as well. This assumption, however, demands further empirical scrutiny.
Rationally trust, but emotionally? The roles of cognitive and affective trust in laypeople's acceptance of AI for preventive care operations
Authors: Kyung Nakyung , Kwon Hyeokkoo Eric
Published: June 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare operations. Nevertheless, particularly in the context of preventive care, little is known about how laypeople perceive and accept AI and change their behavior accordingly. Grounded in a solid theoretical framework of trust, this study bridges this gap by exploring individuals’ acceptance of AI‐based preventive health interventions and following health behavior change, which is critical for preventive care providers’ operational and business performance. Through a randomized field experiment with 15,000 users of a mobile health app complemented by a survey, we first show that the use and disclosure of AI in preventive health interventions improve their effectiveness. However, individuals are less likely to accept and achieve the health behavior change suggested by AI than when they receive similar interventions from health experts. We also observe that the effectiveness of AI‐based interventions can be improved by combining them with human expert opinions, increasing their algorithmic transparency, or emphasizing their genuine care and warmth. These results collectively suggest that, different from conventional technologies, AI's deficient affective trust, rather than comparable cognitive trust, play a decisive role in the acceptance of AI‐based preventive health interventions. This study sheds light on the literature on the role of new‐age information technologies in behavioral operations management, consumer marketing, and healthcare as well as the role of trust in technology acceptance. Valuable practical implications for more effective management of AI for preventive care operations and promotion of consumers’ health behavior are also provided.
DNA fragmentation of equine cumulus cells from Cumulus–Oocyte complexes submitted to vitrification and its relationship to the developmental competence of the oocyte
Authors: Ortiz Isabel , Dorado Jesús , Pereira Blasa , Diaz‐Jimenez María , Consuegra César , Gosalvez Jaime , Hidalgo Manuel
Published: June 2022

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of vitrification on the DNA fragmentation rate of equine cumulus cells and to assess its relationship to oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) after vitrification. Cumulus cells (CC) from 14 mares were recovered from COCs, previously submitted to vitrification (VIT) and IVM. The DNA fragmentation rate of the cumulus cells (CC‐DF) was assessed using a chromatin dispersion test. CC‐DF rates between vitrified and control COCs were statistically compared by Student’s t‐test. The rates of CC‐DF from control COCs were lower than in vitrified COCs. The percentage of CC‐DF was not significantly different (p > .05) between groups of COCs able to reach metaphase II (MII > 0) and those in which oocyte maturation was not achieved (MII = 0). In conclusion, vitrification has a deleterious effect on the DNA fragmentation of equine cumulus cells; however, this parameter cannot be used as a predictor for IVM success after COCs vitrification.
Seronegative human T‐cell lymphotropic virus 1 carriers in blood banks: A potential viral source for silent transmission?
Authors: Frutos María C. , Blanco Sebastián , Balangero Marcos , Carrizo Luis Horacio , Santos Rocha Anderson , Figueiredo Barbosa‐Stancioli Edel , Nates Silvia , Gallego Sandra
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives

Transfusion‐transmitted viruses count among the greatest threats to blood safety. In Argentina, current laws oblige testing all donated blood for the presence of antibodies against human T‐cell lymphotropic viruses 1 and 2 (HTLV‐1/2). In endemic zones of the country, a high rate of seronegative HTLV‐1 individuals with clear evidence of infection because of symptoms and/or presence of tax sequences of HTLV‐1 and/or IgG anti‐Tax antibodies has been recently described. Migration from endemic to nonendemic zones of Argentina is very frequent.

Materials and Methods

During a 1‐year period, in the blood bank of Córdoba city, we performed molecular screening of all donors who were born in or arose from endemic zones for HTLV‐1/2 in Argentina and neighbouring countries.

Results

By screening 219 bp of HTLV‐1/2 tax gene, 0.6% (2/317) of the blood donors proved to be positive for HTLV‐1 tax sequence. One of the donors presented anti‐Tax antibodies, demonstrating the transcriptional activity of the tax gene, and the other donor was also positive for LTR and pol gene sequences. The HTLV‐1 genetic analysis of the LTR sequence determined that it belonged to the Cosmopolitan subtype HTLV‐1aA.

Conclusion

These findings suggest potential limitations of some currently approved screening assays for HTLV‐1 detection applied in some donor populations and the possibility of an HTLV‐1 seronegative carrier state with the potential for silent transmission by blood.
Enhanced Strength and High-Temperature Wear Resistance of Ti6Al4V Alloy Fabricated by Laser Solid Forming
Authors: Zhang Zhinan , Li Zhen , Pan Shuaihang , Chai Xianghai
Published: June 2022

Strengthening titanium alloys and mitigating their wear degradation at various temperatures is the key to industrial applications. In this study, high-performance Ti6Al4V alloy (here, Ti with 6.25 wt% Al and 4.17 wt% V) was prepared by laser solid forming (LSF). The phase and microstructure of the Ti6Al4V alloys were systematically examined, and the overall improved mechanical properties were achieved. The coefficient of friction (CoF) and wear of LSFed Ti6Al4V alloy against WC-6%Co cemented carbide using a ball-on-disc tribometer at various temperatures revealed a temperature-dependent wear mechanism. During the experiment, the CoF of LSFed Ti6Al4V would increase initially and then decrease with the increased temperature. This trend is determined by the abrasive wear dominating at a lower temperature, and it gradually changes to oxidative wear and fatigue wear under higher temperatures. LSF provides a promising way to achieve supreme mechanical and tribological properties in Ti6Al4V simultaneously.
A Predictive and Generative Design Approach for Three-Dimensional Mesh Shapes Using Target-Embedding Variational Autoencoder
Authors: Li Xingang , Xie Charles , Sha Zhenghui
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we present a predictive and generative design approach for supporting the conceptual design of product shapes in 3D meshes. We develop a target-embedding variational autoencoder (TEVAE) neural network architecture, which consists of two modules: (1) a training module with two encoders and one decoder (E2D network) and (2) an application module performing the generative design of new 3D shapes and the prediction of a 3D shape from its silhouette. We demonstrate the utility and effectiveness of the proposed approach in the design of 3D car body and mugs. The results show that our approach can generate a large number of novel 3D shapes and successfully predict a 3D shape based on a single silhouette sketch. The resulting 3D shapes are watertight polygon meshes with high-quality surface details, which have better visualization than voxels and point clouds, and are ready for downstream engineering evaluation (e.g., drag coefficient) and prototyping (e.g., 3D printing).
Enhancement of Melting Process Inside Toroidal Tube Heat Exchanger With Different Cross-Sectional Geometries
Authors: Mohaghegh Mohammad Reza , Tasnim Syeda Humaira , Mahmud Shohel
Published: June 2022

Utilizing phase change material (PCM) in concentric tube and shell-and-tube latent heat exchangers known as latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) have been extensively studied due to the high ability and density in storing energy during the melting (charging) process. Inadequate melting in these systems reduces the thermal performance of LHTES systems. To facilitate and accelerate the melting process, the innovative design of such systems is a key. The present study proposes novel designs of toroidal tubes embedded in the LHTES system as a latent heat exchanger. The effect of the cross-sectional geometry of the tube on the thermal performance of the system is investigated through simulation and comparison of different cross-sectional geometric shapes. A mathematical model based on the enthalpy-porosity approach is developed and numerically solved by the finite volume method to simulate the energy transport processes inside the system. Several transient heat transfer characteristics, e.g., thermal filed, melt fraction, Nusselt number, and energy storage during phase change, are determined and compared for all cases to evaluate their thermal performance and find the optimal geometry. The results indicate that downward triangular geometry for the cross-sectional shape of the tube shows the best performance as it significantly enhances the melting process, resulting in a faster energy storage rate during the charging process. Compared with the circular toroidal tube as the base geometry, the downward triangular shape design for the toroidal tube can improve the charging power of the system by 21%.
Experimental Observation of Premixed Methane/Air Flame Propagation in an Obstructed Tube With Increasing Blockage Ratios
Authors: Chen Peng , Sun Ruibang , Li Liyang , Wang Yi
Published: June 2022

Methane explosion is one of the major hazards in the mechanical industry. In this paper, a series of methane/air premixed combustion experiments were carried out to study the influence of blockage ratio on flame propagation. The blocking ratio (BR) is referred as the cross-sectional area of occlusion divided by the total area. Flame shape and pressure response were measured and analyzed. The results showed that five typical stages were experienced for all configurations except for BR = 0.999, particularly, a diamond-shaped flame and a mushroom-shaped flame front were observed for some lower BRs. The largest length of jet flames was selected to characterize flame–obstacle interaction rose smoothly until BR = 0.9 and then declines rapidly. The flame evolution process was simulated by a power-law flame wrinkling model. Flame behaviors and pressure dynamics for each configuration were investigated, and the maximum flame speed, explosion pressure, and growth rate coincide exactly with the largest length of jet flames in trend. It can be seen that BR was of great significance to flame propagation and BR = 0.9 was a limit or a watershed. In addition, the pressure growth rate was positively correlated with the flame tip speed.
Advanced Modelling and Performance Evaluation of Hydrogen-Powered Heavy Haul Locomotive
Authors: Spiryagin Maksym , Szanto Frank , Oldknow Kevin , Wolfs Peter , Spiryagin Valentyn , Ahmad Sanjar , Wu Qing , Bernal Esteban , Cole Colin , Mcsweeney Tim
Published: June 2022

In recent years, there have been significant activities in the development of hybrid, battery electric and alternative fuel (e.g., LPG, LNG, CNG) locomotives. However, to date there is a limited number of publications on the usage of such modelling and simulation approaches for hydrogen-powered rail vehicles, and almost no publications on hydrogen-powered heavy haul locomotives. A conceptual heavy haul hydrogen-powered locomotive has been designed and studied with the application of advanced simulation techniques used in recent locomotive/train/track damage studies. The detailed locomotive model includes multibody subsystems for the mechanical system of the locomotive and a traction power system implemented in the Matlab/Simulink software package. The traction performance evaluation has been performed through the delivery of traction effort characteristics of the proposed locomotive through co-simulation between multibody software and Matlab/Simulink and the evaluation of locomotive traction performance in a train configuration where the developed hydrogen-powered locomotive has been placed in a head-end locomotive consist for hauling a heavy haul train. The paper presents a summary of the simulation results, and detailed discussion of the limitations that have been identified in the approach.
Fiber Optic System to Extend the Measuring Frequency Range of Pantograph Contact Force
Authors: Calvanese Luigi , Carnevale Marco , Facchinetti Alan
Published: June 2022

Pantograph-Catenary interaction constitutes the fundamental sliding mechanism able to feed the train engine with the electrical power necessary to its motion. To maintain this mechanical coupling in well-functioning conditions, it is valuable to have a good and specific monitoring system able to evaluate the contact force magnitude and position. Systems available nowadays for this purpose are characterized by a limit to the measuring frequency range up to 20 Hz due to a rigid collector assumption. The objective of this paper is the definition of an alternative method for contact force estimation able to extend the measuring frequency range. The solution found consider fiber Bragg gratings strain optical sensors placed along the pantograph collector. The developing of the system is presented starting from the optical setup. The results obtained adopting two different data treatments strategies are analyzed and commented.
Can rubrics combat gender bias in faculty hiring?
Authors: Blair-Loy Mary , Mayorova Olga V. , Cosman Pamela C. , Fraley Stephanie I.
Published: June 2022

Some bias persisted, but rubric use should be encouraged
Locking volatile organic molecules by subnanometer inorganic nanowire-based organogels
Authors: Zhang Simin , Shi Wenxiong , Wang Xun
Published: June 2022

The intermolecular forces among volatile organic molecules are usually weaker than water, making them more difficult to absorb. We prepared alkaline earth cations–bridged polyoxometalate nanoclusters subnanometer nanowires through a facile room-temperature reaction. The nanowires can form three-dimensional networks, trapping more than 10 kinds of volatile organic liquids effectively with the mass fraction of nanowires as low as 0.53%. A series of freestanding, elastic, and stable organogels were obtained. We prepared gels that encapsulate organic liquids at the kilogram scale. Through removing solvents in gels by means of distillation and centrifugation, the nanowires can be recycled more than 10 times. This method could be applied to the effective trapping and recovery of organic liquids.
In Other Journals
Authors: Hines Pamela J. , Ray L. Bryan , Suleymanov Yury , Uzogara Ekeoma , Stern Peter , Yiu Yuen , Szuromi Phil
Published: June 2022

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Silence greets requests to flag retracted studies
Authors: Brainard Jeffrey
Published: June 2022

Authors and editors ignored warnings about citing noted fraudster, exposing a problem in scholarly publishing
Hidden carbon layer sparked ancient bout of global warming
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: June 2022

Deep carbon exhumed by volcanic rift between Greenland and Europe implicated in 56-million-year-old hothouse
Funds dwindle for NIH program for puzzling cases
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: June 2022

Patient groups, hospitals urge continued support for the Undiagnosed Diseases Network
Lyon IARC Polyomavirus Displays Transforming Activities in Primary Human Cells
Authors: Venuti Assunta , Romero-Medina Maria Carmen , Melita Giusi , Ceraolo Maria Grazia , Brancaccio Rosario Nicola , Sirand Cecilia , Taverniti Valerio , Steenbergen Renske , Gheit Tarik , Tommasino Massimo
Published: June 2022

Lyon IARC PyV is a recently discovered polyomavirus that shows some structural similarities to well-established animal and human oncogenic PyVs, such as raccoon PyV and Merkel cell PyV, respectively. Here, we show the capability of LIPyV to efficiently promote cellular transformation of primary human cells, suggesting a possible oncogenic role of this virus in domestic animals and/or humans.
Metagenomes and Metagenome-Assembled Genomes from Microbial Communities Fermenting Ultrafiltered Milk Permeate
Authors: Walters Kevin A. , Myers Kevin S. , Wang Hui , Fortney Nathaniel W. , Ingle Abel T. , Scarborough Matthew J. , Donohue Timothy J. , Noguera Daniel R.
Published: June 2022

Fermentative microbial communities can be utilized for the conversion of various agroindustrial residues into valuable chemicals. Here, we report 34 metagenomes from anaerobic bioreactors fed lactose-rich ultrafiltered milk permeate and 278 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). These MAGs can inform future studies aimed at generating renewable chemicals from dairy and other agroindustrial residues.
Risk Factors and Predictive Score for Bacteremic Biliary Tract Infections Due to Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium: a Multicenter Cohort Study from the PROBAC Project
Authors: Mussa Marco , Martínez Pérez-Crespo Pedro María , Lopez-Cortes Luis Eduardo , Retamar-Gentil Pilar , Sousa-Dominguez Adrián , Goikoetxea-Aguirre Ane Josune , Reguera-Iglesias José María , León Jiménez Eva , Fernández-Natal Isabel , Armiñanzas-Castillo Carlos , Boix-Palop Lucía , Cuquet-Pedragosa Jordi , Morán Rodríguez Miguel Ángel , Fernandez-Suarez Jonathan , del Arco-Jiménez Alfonso , Jóver-Saenz Alfredo , Bahamonde-Carrasco Alberto , Galan-Sanchez Fátima , Sánchez-Calvo Juan Manuel , Smithson-Amat Alejandro , Vinuesa-García David , Sánchez-Porto Antonio , López-Hernández Inmaculada , Rodríguez-Baño Jesús ,   the PROBAC REIPI/GEIH-SEIMC/SAEI group
Published: June 2022

Biliary tract infections are frequent, and a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Bacteremia is common in these infections, particularly in the elderly and patients with cancer.
Cross-Species Transmission of Bat Coronaviruses in the Americas: Contrasting Patterns between Alphacoronavirus and Betacoronavirus
Authors: Caraballo Diego A.
Published: June 2022

Coronaviruses (CoVs) have a strong zoonotic potential due to their high rates of evolvability and their capacity for overcoming host-specific barriers. Bats harbor the largest number of CoV species among mammals, with the highest CoV diversity found in areas with the highest levels of bat species richness.
Crustal growth/reworking and stabilization of the western Superior Province: Insights from a Neoarchean gneiss complex of the Winnipeg River terrane
Authors: Ma Chong , Marsh Jeffrey , Lodge Robert W.D. , Sherlock Ross
Published: June 2022

Long-term stability of the continental lithosphere is attained through a cumulative increase in net buoyancy and rigidity due to progressive compositional differentiation (i.e., cratonization). As stable cratons provided the nucleus for the subsequent accretionary growth and tectono-magmatic reworking that produced modern continental crust, the geodynamic processes that facilitated the stabilization of cratons are critical for understanding the evolution of Earth’s lithosphere. This study uses a portion of the Winnipeg River terrane, one of the oldest terranes of the western Superior Province, as a natural laboratory to investigate Archean crustal growth (partial melting of mantle) and reworking (partial melting of crust) and provides insights into the geodynamic processes driving mantle depletion and crustal remelting. Zircon U-Pb data obtained by laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) from an extensive Winnipeg River terrane gneiss complex reveal six major magmatic events at ca. 3060 Ma, 2930–2920 Ma, ca. 2910 Ma, 2830–2800 Ma, 2735–2730 Ma, and ca. 2700 Ma and regional metamorphism at ca. 2900 Ma. Whole-rock geochemistry and zircon Lu-Hf and trace element data indicate that (1) the magmatism at ca. 3060 Ma and ca. 2930–2920 Ma represents reworking of the isotopically evolved components of the incipient Winnipeg River terrane at shallow depths, (2) the ca. 2910 Ma magmatism features a step-change of Hf isotopic compositions from subchondritic to suprachondritic and records the formation of new juvenile magmas and the first reworking of existing juvenile crust, and (3) the magmatism after ca. 2830 Ma largely reflects reworking of the juvenile components of the incipient Winnipeg River terrane at medium to shallow depths prior to the ca. 2700 Ma trans-crustal magmatism associated with the convergence of the Winnipeg River terrane and western Wabigoon terrane. Juvenile magmatism and crustal growth in the Winnipeg River terrane at ca. 2910 Ma are inferred to correspond with significant mantle depletion below the Winnipeg River terrane, which led to a more stable lithospheric mantle in this part of the western Superior Province. Zircon trace element data support a mantle upwelling model rather than lithosphere recycling models for the depletion of mantle at ca. 2910 Ma. This study suggests that crustal growth and mantle depletion bracketed by prolonged, episodic crustal reworking may be a fundamental characteristic of the cratonization process.
Remote versus face-to-face home-based exercise programme in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: protocol for a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Souza Aline Alves de , Silva Stephano Tomaz da , Pondofe Karen de Medeiros , Resqueti Vanessa Regiane , Melo Luciana Protásio de , Valentim Ricardo Alexsandro de Medeiros , Ribeiro Tatiana Souza
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with variable and complex clinical manifestations that requires a multidisciplinary approach. However, face-to-face treatment in this population may experience barriers, such as difficulty accessing physical therapists or other professionals. As a result, strategies (eg, telerehabilitation) emerged to facilitate treatment and physical therapy monitoring. This study aims to evaluate the effects of remote versus face-to-face home-based exercise programmes on clinical outcomes and treatment adherence of people with ALS.

Methods and analysis

This is a single-blind randomised clinical trial protocol that will include 44 people with clinical diagnosis of ALS at any clinical stage and aged between 18 and 80 years. Participants will be randomised into two groups after face-to-face evaluation and perform a home-based exercise programme three times a week for 6 months. A physical therapist will monitor the exercise programme once a week remotely (phone calls—experimental group) or face-to-face (home visits—control group). The primary outcome measure will be functional capacity (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised). Secondary outcomes will include disease severity (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Severity Scale), fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale), pain (Visual Analogue Scale and body pain diagram), adverse events and adherence rate. Outcomes will be initially evaluated face-to-face and revaluated remotely every 2 months and 1 month after interventions. Linear mixed models will compare outcome measures between groups and evaluations (α=5%).

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the research ethics committee of Hospital Universitário Onofre Lopes/Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (no. 3735479). We expect to identify the effects of an exercise programme developed according to ALS stages and associated with remote or face-to-face monitoring on clinical outcomes using revaluations and follow-up after interventions.

Trial registration number

Brazilian Registry Clinical Trials (RBR-10z9pgfv).
Risk factors for fear of falling in stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xie Qi , Pei Juhong , Gou Ling , Zhang Yabin , Zhong Juanping , Su Yujie , Wang Xinglei , Ma Li , Dou Xinman
Published: June 2022

Objective

Even though 32%–83% for fear of falling (FoF) in patients with stroke, very little is known about the predictors of the problems. Therefore, we systematically reviewed the literature on risk factors for FoF in patients with stroke.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library database, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Grey literature and other relevant databases for related publications were searched (from inception to 17 July 2021).

Results

Eight studies involving 1597 participants were selected to analyse risk factors for patients with stroke with FoF. The quality of all included studies was assessed and categorised as medium or high quality. Review Manager V.5.3 merged the OR value and 95% CI of the potential risk factors. Meta-regression and Egger’s test were performed by Stata V.15.1. The risk factors for FoF in patients with stroke were women (OR=2.13, 95% CI 1.47 to 3.09), impaired balance ability (OR=5.54; 95% CI 3.48 to 8.81), lower mobility (OR=1.12; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.19), history of falls (OR=2.33; 95% CI 1.54 to 3.53) and walking aid (OR=1.98; 95% CI 1.37 to 2.88), anxiety (OR=2.29; 95% CI 1.43 to 3.67), depression (OR=1.80; 95% CI 1.22 to 2.67), poor lower limb motor function (OR=1.14; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.29) and physically inactiveness (OR=2.04; 95% CI 1.01 to 4.12). Measurement of heterogeneity between studies was high for all outcomes (I2=0%–93%), indicating that the substantial interstudy heterogeneity in estimated proportions was not attributed to the sampling error. Sensitivity analysis (leave-one-out method) showed that the pooled estimate was stable.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis indicated that female population, impaired balance ability, lower mobility, history of falls and walking aid in patients with stroke might be at greater risk for FoF. Future studies are recommended to determine other risk factors specific to patients with stroke.
Mapping outcomes for recovery of consciousness in studies from 1986 to 2020: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Weaver Jennifer , Cogan Alison , Bhandari Parie , Awan Bint-e Zainab , Jacobs Erica , Pape Ariana , Nguyen Chantal , Guernon Ann , Harrod Tom ,   The Recovery of Consciousness (RECON) Team, Bender Pape Theresa , Mallinson Trudy
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Historically, heterogeneous outcome assessments have been used to measure recovery of consciousness in patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) following traumatic brain injury (TBI), making it difficult to compare across studies. To date, however, there is no comprehensive review of clinical outcome assessments that are used in intervention studies of adults with DoC. The objective of this scoping review is to develop a comprehensive inventory of clinical outcome assessments for recovery of consciousness that have been used in clinical studies of adults with DoC following TBI.

Methods and analysis

The methodological framework for this review is: (1) identify the research questions, (2) identify relevant studies, (3) select studies, (4) chart the data, (5) collate, summarise and report results and (6) consult stakeholders to drive knowledge translation. We will identify relevant studies by searching the following electronic bibliographic databases: PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, PsycINFO and The Cochrane Library (including Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Cochrane Methodology Register). Criteria for article inclusion are published in the English-language, peer-reviewed studies of interventions aimed at facilitating recovery of consciousness among adults (> 18 years) with DoC following a severe TBI, published from January 1986 to December 2020. Articles meeting inclusion criteria at this stage will undergo a full text review. We will chart the data by applying the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Framework to identify the content areas of clinical outcome assessments. To support knowledge translation efforts, we will involve clinicians and researchers experienced in TBI care throughout the project from conceptualisation of the study through dissemination of results.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required for this study as it is not determined to be human subjects research. Results will be presented at national conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

CRD42017058383.
Protocol for EXICODE: the EXIstential health COhort DEnmark—a register and survey study of adult Danes
Authors: Stripp Tobias Kvist , Wehberg Sonja , Büssing Arndt , Andersen-Ranberg Karen , Jensen Lars Henrik , Henriksen Finn , Laursen Christian B , Søndergaard Jens , Hvidt Niels Christian
Published: June 2022

Introduction

We established the EXIstential health COhort DEnmark (EXICODE) to examine how existential and spiritual needs, practices and orientations in a secular culture are linked to health outcomes, illness trajectory and overall cost of care in patients. Substantial literature demonstrates that existential and spiritual well-being has positive effects on health. While people turn to existential and spiritual orientations and practices during ageing, struggle with illness and approaching death, patients with severe illnesses like, for example, cancer similarly experience existential and spiritual needs. These needs are often unmet in secular societies leading to spiritual pain, unnecessary suffering, worse quality of life and higher medical costs of care.

Methods and analysis

EXICODE is a national cohort comprising a 10% random sample of the adult Danish population with individual-level register and survey data. Specific patient subgroups are oversampled to ensure diseased respondents. The questionnaire used in the survey consists of a collection of validated instruments on existential and spiritual constructs suited for secular culture as well as some ad hoc questions compiled in the comprehensive EXICODE Questionnaire.

Ethics and dissemination

The project is registered for legal and GDPR concerns by the University of Southern Denmark, journal number: 10.367. Ethical approval was not required by Danish law since EXICODE collects only interview, survey and register data, but due to institutional best-practice policy an ethical evaluation and approval were nevertheless obtained from the University of Southern Denmark Research Ethics Committee (institutional review board), journal number: 20/39546. The project follows The Danish Code of Conduct for Research Integrity and is carried out in accordance with the Helsinki Declaration. Results will be disseminated widely through publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals, international conferences, patient societies as well as mass and social media.
Affective disorders: eliminate WArning signs and REstore functioning—AWARE—a randomised controlled multimodule intervention study, presentation of design and intervention
Authors: Schwarz Rasmus , Decker Lone , Seeberg Ida , Miskowiak Kamilla Woznica , Kessing Lars Vedel , Vinberg Maj
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Affective disorders are associated with impaired overall functioning and quality of life (QoL). Despite different medical and psychological treatment options, the prognosis remains largely unchanged. Consequently, the field needs new intervention strategies especially targeting patient groups with impaired functioning. This study aims to improve functioning and QoL in patients with affective disorders using a comprehensive 360° intervention.

Methods and analysis

Affective disorders: eliminate WArning signs And REstore (AWARE) functioning is a randomised, controlled, parallel-group design study. Participants will be 120 outpatients, men or women, aged 18–65 years, with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder. Inclusion requires an objectively rated impaired functioning defined as a score ≥11 according to the Functioning Assessment Short Test. Participants will be randomised to 6-month AWARE intervention or treatment as usual (TAU). The AWARE intervention is a 360° multimodal intervention based on the International Classification of Functioning Brief Core Set for bipolar and unipolar disorder targeting functioning.

The primary outcome is improvement of observation-based activities of daily living (ADL) ability using Assessment of Motor and Process Skills. Secondary outcomes are changes from baseline to endpoint in functioning, QoL, stress, cognition and physical health.

Our hypothesis is that the AWARE treatment in comparison with TAU will improve observed ability to perform ADL, patients self-perceived level of functioning and QoL.

Status: currently recruiting patients.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained from The Regional Ethics Committee in the Capital Region of Denmark. All patients will be provided oral and written information about the trial before informed consent is obtained. The study results will be disseminated by peer-review publications. If the present AWARE intervention shows beneficial effects, the goal is to use it as a template for future interventions addressing disability in patients with affective disorders as well as for patients within other diagnostic categories.

Trial registration number

NCT04701827; Clinicaltrials.gov.
Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS-attributed mortalities and associated sociodemographic factors in Papua New Guinea: evidence from the comprehensive health and epidemiological surveillance system
Authors: Pham Bang Nguyen , Abori Norah , Silas Vinson D , Jorry Ronny , Rao Chalapati , Okely Tony , Pomat Willie
Published: June 2022

Objective

Tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS are public health concerns in Papua New Guinea (PNG). This study examines TB and HIV/AIDS mortalities and associated sociodemographic factors in PNG.

Method

As part of a longitudinal study, verbal autopsy (VA) interviews were conducted using the WHO 2016 VA Instrument to collect data of 926 deaths occurred in the communities within the catchment areas of the Comprehensive Health and Epidemiological Surveillance System from 2018 to 2020.

InterVA-5 cause of deaths analytical tool was used to assign specific causes of death (COD). Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify associated sociodemographic factors, estimate adjusted ORs (AOR), 95% CIs and p values.

Result

TB and HIV/AIDS were the leading CODs from infectious diseases, attributed to 9% and 8% of the total deaths, respectively.

Young adults (25–34 years) had the highest proportion of deaths from TB (20%) and the risk of dying from TB among this age group was five times more likely than those aged 75+ years (AOR: 5.5 (95% CI 1.4 to 21.7)). Urban populations were 46% less likely to die from this disease compared rural ones although the difference was not significant (AOR: 0.54 (95% CI 0.3 to 1.0)). People from middle household wealth quintile were three times more likely to die from TB than those in the richest quintile (AOR: 3.0 (95% CI 1.3 to 7.4)).

Young adults also had the highest proportion of deaths to HIV/AIDS (18%) and were nearly seven times more likely to die from this disease compared with those aged 75+years (AOR: 6.7 (95% CI 1.7 to 25.4)). Males were 48% less likely to die from HIV/AIDS than females (AOR: 0.52 (95% CI 0.3 to 0.9)). The risk of dying from HIV/AIDS in urban population was 54% less likely than their rural counterparts (AOR: 0.46 (95% CI 0.2 to 0.9)).

Conclusion

TB and HIV/AIDS interventions are needed to target vulnerable populations to reduce premature mortality from these diseases in PNG.