bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of visuomotor synchrony on virtual full‐body illusions in children and adults
Authors: Dewe Hayley , Sill Oscar , Thurlbeck Simon , Kentridge Robert W. , Cowie Dorothy
Published: May 2024

The present study explored the effects of visuomotor synchrony in virtual reality during the embodiment of a full human avatar in children (aged 5–6 years) and adults. Participants viewed their virtual bodies from a first‐person perspective while they moved the body during self‐generated and structured movement. Embodiment was measured via questions and psychophysiological responses (skin conductance) to a virtual body‐threat and during both movement conditions. Both children and adults had increased feelings of ownership and agency over a virtual body during synchronous visuomotor feedback (compared to asynchronous visuomotor feedback). Children had greater ownership compared to adults during synchronous movement but did not differ from adults on agency. There were no differences in SCRs (frequency or magnitude) between children and adults, between conditions (i.e., baseline or movement conditions) or visuomotor feedback. Collectively, the study highlights the importance of visuomotor synchrony for children's ratings of embodiment for a virtual avatar from at least 5 years old, and suggests adults and children are comparable in terms of psychophysiological arousal when moving (or receiving a threat to) a virtual body. This has important implications for our understanding of the development of embodied cognition and highlights the considerable promise of exploring visuomotor VR experiences in children.
Study of the soothing effects of troxerutin in alleviating skin sensitivity
Authors: Kim Tae‐Yoon , Myoung Joonoh , Lee Youn Jung , Lee Jinyong , Kim Jongwook , Kim Seungeun , Kim Mi‐Sun , Beck Bo Ram , Hwang Seung Jin , Kang Nae‐Gyu , Jeong Eui Taek
Published: May 2024

Background

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is associated with skin sensitivity and mainly activated by capsaicin and heat. Interestingly, troxerutin can inhibit TRPV1 activation. However, its efficacy in reducing skin sensitivity remains undetermined.

Aims

We evaluated the efficacy of troxerutin in alleviating skin sensitivity using clinical tests and in vitro experiments.

Methods

For the in vitro experiment, HaCaT keratinocytes were pretreated with different concentrations of troxerutin, followed by incubation with 50 μM capsaicin for 1, 24, or 48 h. The gene and protein expressions of four inflammatory cytokines involved in skin irritation were determined. Among 35 Korean women with sensitive skin recruited for the clinical trial, 13 were involved in assessing the immediate soothing effects of 0.1% and 0.0095% troxerutin following capsaicin irritation, whereas 22 participated in evaluating the preventive soothing effect of 10% and 1% troxerutin over 4 weeks against capsaicin‐ and heat‐induced irritation. We evaluated the soothing rate using skin redness, visual analog scale, and high temperature sensitive index as evaluation indices.

Results

Troxerutin inhibited the mRNA and protein expressions of cytokines in capsaicin‐treated keratinocytes. In the clinical study, 0.1% and 0.0095% troxerutin promptly alleviated capsaicin‐induced skin redness, whereas 10% troxerutin notably decreased both the visual analog scale and high temperature sensitive index for capsaicin‐ and heat‐related irritation. However, 1% troxerutin was only effective in reducing the visual analog scale in response to capsaicin irritation.

Conclusions

Troxerutin can inhibit TRPV1 activation in clinical and in vitro tests.
Marketing innovations and digital technologies: A systematic review, proposed framework, and future research agenda
Authors: Athaide Gerard A. , Jeon Jaihyun , Raj S. P. , Sivakumar K. , Xiong Guiyang
Published: May 2024

In recent years, scholars and practitioners have increasingly recognized the profound impact of digital technologies (DTs) on reshaping organizations' value propositions and their ability to create, communicate, and deliver value to stakeholders. Given this heightened attention, it is imperative to comprehensively examine how DTs affect marketing innovations. This study reports the results of a systematic review of empirical research on DTs' role in marketing innovations. Specifically, it identifies a comprehensive list of technologies and investigates their relevance in enabling innovative approaches within marketing research, strategy formulation (segmentation, targeting, and positioning), and implementation (product, promotion, place, and price). The study synthesizes emerging themes in the literature, pinpoints research gaps, proposes a 3As framework for classifying DTs in marketing, and delineates future research directions in this pivotal domain.
Rethinking eco‐evo studies of gene expression for non‐model organisms in the genomic era
Authors: Freedman Adam H. , Sackton Timothy B.
Published: May 2024

Recent advances in genomic technology, including the rapid development of long‐read sequencing technology and single‐cell RNA‐sequencing methods, are poised to significantly expand the kinds of studies that are feasible in ecological genomics. In this perspective, we review these new technologies and discuss their potential impact on gene expression studies in non‐model organisms. Although traditional RNA‐sequencing methods have been an extraordinarily powerful tool to apply functional genomics in an ecological context, bulk RNA‐seq approaches often rely on de novo transcriptome assembly, and cannot capture expression changes in rare cell populations or distinguish shifts in cell type abundance. Advancements in genome assembly technology, particularly long‐read sequencing, and improvements in the scalability of single‐cell RNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐seq) offer unprecedented resolution in understanding cellular heterogeneity and gene regulation. We discuss the potential of these technologies to enable disentangling differential gene regulation from cell type composition differences and uncovering subtle expression patterns masked by bulk RNA‐seq. The integration of these approaches provides a more nuanced understanding of the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of gene expression, paving the way for refined models and deeper insights into the generation of biodiversity.
Druzification from below: The case of Arameans in the north Israel
Authors: Woźniak‐Bobińska Marta
Published: May 2024

This article sheds new light on the Aramean movement in northern Israel, drawing from studies on nationalism, racialisation, ethnic conflict and minority mobilisation. In 2014, Israel allowed members of several churches to identify as Aramean. The pivotal role in the Aramean minority's distancing of itself from the Arab identity was played by the Israeli Christian Aramaic Association (ICAA). Specifying and partially adapting Yusri Hazran's concept of ‘Druzification’, meaning the Israelis' conscious policy of minoritising indigenous populations and encouraging their conscription to the army, the term ‘Druzification from below’ is proposed to stress the bottom‐up character of the Aramean movement in the north of the country as well as the agency of Middle Eastern Christians. My general standpoint is that ‘Druzification from below’ can be perceived as an adaptive strategy—a survival response to structural political conditions and urbicidal practices of the ethnocratic state and adaptation to external threats.
Efficacy of prasugrel versus clopidogrel for early neurological deterioration in branch atheromatous disease: An exploratory study
Authors: Inoue Hiroyasu , Oomura Masahiro , Madokoro Yuta , Taniguchi Yoko , Suzuki Kengo , Sato Toyohiro , Fujioka Teppei , Mizuno Masayuki , Kawashima Shoji , Okita Kenji , Yoshimura Kenichi , Matsukawa Noriyuki
Published: May 2024

Background

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with clopidogrel is one of the initial treatment regimens for early neurological deterioration (END) in branch atheromatous disease (BAD). However, its effectiveness is affected by cytochrome P450 2C19 polymorphism. Prasugrel, with reduced cytochrome P450 2C19 interactions, has been approved for cerebrovascular diseases in Japan.

Aim

To explore the efficacy of DAPT with prasugrel and with clopidogrel in preventing END.

Methods

Patients with BAD, admitted within 48 h of symptom onset between June 2022 and September 2023, were enrolled. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with END within 7 days, which was defined as an increase of 1 point or more on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Patients meeting specific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) criteria, including lesions of ≥15 mm in the lenticulostriate artery (LSA) region or infarcts extending to the ventral side of the paramedian pontine region, were included. The patients were randomly assigned to the clopidogrel with loading and prasugrel without loading groups and administered common medications.

Results

The study included 9 and 10 patients in clopidogrel and prasugrel groups, of whom 56% and 50% had END, respectively. The prasugrel group had earlier exacerbations after admission (days 0–1) than that of the clopidogrel group (days 1–2). The bleeding complications of both groups were not significantly different.

Conclusion

The two groups had similar proportions of patients with END, suggesting comparable efficacies of both drugs for patients with BAD.
Staphylococcus warneri, an unconventional plant pathogen involved in canker disease of almond and other Prunus species
Authors: Asadi Esmaeil , Rahimian Heshmatollah , Babaeizad Valiollah , Basavand Esmaeil
Published: May 2024

Bacterial canker disease of stone fruits is a major concern in stone fruit‐growing countries worldwide. Pseudomonas spp. and Xanthomonas arboricola pv. pruni (Xap) are the primary pathogens involved in this disease. In spring, summer and autumn 2016, symptoms like those produced by Pseudomonas spp. and Xap were observed in almond, apricot, peach and nectarine orchards in central provinces of Iran (Qom, Isfahan, and Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari). Gram‐positive cocci bacterial isolates were obtained from symptomatic trees. Following hypersensitivity and pathogenicity tests, isolates were divided into pathogenic and nonpathogenic groups, demonstrating the pathogenicity of some isolates on saplings of almond, peach and apricot. Multilocus sequence analysis was performed using the partial sequence of 16S rRNA region and four housekeeping genes, namely tuf, gap, dnaJ and rpoB, to determine the taxonomic classification of isolates, and revealed that pathogenic isolates identified as Staphylococcus warneri, while nonpathogenic isolates identified as S. warneri, S. epidermidis, S. hominis and S. saprophyticus. The isolates were further characterized by phenotypic and biochemical tests as well as by antibiotics assays. The unusual nature of the identified microorganism in the present study lies in the fact that, unlike most plant‐pathogenic agents, S. warneri is recognized worldwide as a cause of bacterial infections in humans and animals. Taken together, the bacterial canker disease caused by S. warneri appears to be a newly emerging disease of apricot, peach and almond trees.
On the Exclusionary Scope of Razian Reasons
Authors: Moreso J. J.
Published: May 2024

This article attempts to illustrate the originality, depth, and farsightedness of Joseph Raz's conception, especially his idea that legal norms provide us with protected reasons to act, that is, with first‐order reasons to behave as they prescribe, and with second‐order, exclusionary reasons not to act for reasons against what they prescribe. But the article also highlights some aspects that raise doubts in my mind, especially with regard to the scope of these exclusionary reasons. This in two ways: by asking, on the one hand, in what sense and subject to what limits legal norms provide exclusionary reasons for the organs entrusted with applying the law, especially for judges, and on the other hand, how and to what extent legal norms provide citizens with exclusionary reasons. So, in recognizing the strength of the Razian conception, the article also points to some of the difficulties it faces.
Partisanship is why people vote in person in a pandemic
Authors: Kim Seo‐Young Silvia , Bandreddi Akhil , Alvarez R. Michael
Published: May 2024

Objective

The choice of voting methods has increasingly become a politicized, partisan issue. We ask: Can a nationalized partisan rhetoric cast doubt on vote‐by‐mail (VBM) despite years of experience and a raging pandemic?

Method

Using 2020 general election records in Colorado, an established all‐mail voting state, we analyze first the general choice of voting methods using supervised machine learning and then the choice to switch to in‐person voting despite having used VBM in previous cycles.

Results

The choice of voting modes is mainly habitual; local variations of COVID‐19 hardly mattered. Republican partisanship played an important role in predicting “switchers” to in‐person voting; the probability was 5.2 percent conditional on being a Republican as opposed to 1.9 percent for a Democrat.

Conclusions

The results suggest that voting in person can be heavily polarized by partisan communication, despite being a health behavior in a pandemic and voters having experience with mail voting.
Identification of five new HLA‐C alleles by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Loginova Maria , Makhova Olga , Paramonov Igor
Published: May 2024

Five novel HLA‐C alleles detected by next‐generation sequencing: HLA‐C*02:02:73, ‐C*03:04:106, ‐C*06:382, ‐C*07:1114Q and ‐C*12:408.
A chromosome‐scale assembly of Brassica carinata (BBCC) accession HC20 containing resistance to multiple pathogens and an early generation assessment of introgressions into B. juncea (AABB)
Authors: Paritosh Kumar , Rajarammohan Sivasubramanian , Yadava Satish Kumar , Sharma Sarita , Verma Rashmi , Mathur Shikha , Mukhopadhyay Arundhati , Gupta Vibha , Pradhan Akshay K. , Kaur Jagreet , Pental Deepak
Published: May 2024

Brassica carinata (BBCC) commonly referred to as Ethiopian mustard is a natural allotetraploid containing the genomes of Brassica nigra (BB) and Brassica oleracea (CC). It is an oilseed crop endemic to the northeastern regions of Africa. Although it is under limited cultivation, B. carinata is valuable as it is resistant/highly tolerant to most of the pathogens affecting widely cultivated Brassica species of the U's triangle. We report a chromosome‐scale genome assembly of B. carinata accession HC20 using long‐read Oxford Nanopore sequencing and Bionano optical maps. The assembly has a scaffold N50 of ~39.8 Mb and covers ~1.11 Gb of the genome. We compared the long‐read genome assemblies of the U's triangle species and found extensive gene collinearity between the diploids and allopolyploids with no evidence of major gene losses. Therefore, B. juncea (AABB), B. napus (AACC), and B. carinata can be regarded as strict allopolyploids. We cataloged the nucleotide‐binding and leucine‐rich repeat immune receptor (NLR) repertoire of B. carinata and, identified 465 NLRs, and compared these with the NLRs in the other Brassica species. We investigated the extent and nature of early‐generation genomic interactions between the constituent genomes of B. carinata and B. juncea in interspecific crosses between the two species. Besides the expected recombination between the constituent B genomes, extensive homoeologous exchanges were observed between the A and C genomes. Interspecific crosses, therefore, can be used for transferring disease resistance from B. carinata to B. juncea and broadening the genetic base of the two allotetraploid species.
Otherness and cultural conceptualisations of Gender and Social Class in Nigerian English
Authors: Taiwo Rotimi
Published: May 2024

Studies of varieties of English have focused on cultural conceptualisations in different varieties, showing how these are deeply rooted in culture. Likewise, several other studies have reported discourses of otherness. This study is an exploration of the intersection of these two concepts – otherness and conceptualisations. Using data from Nigerian English, the study demonstrates how othering and categorisations could derive from cultural conceptualisations of Gender and Social Class. The study discusses selected Nigerian English expressions from the data and offers explanations on how their construction and usage for otherness can be said to derive from cultural conceptualisations. The findings reveal an antipodal portrayal of women as agents with capacity to control men, deprive other women of their husbands, nurture and provide for the society. Cultural conceptualisations of social class based on possessions, diet, experience, locations and how these variables serve as the bases for otherness are equally discussed.
Stem cell‐derived cardiomyocyte heterogeneity confounds electrophysiological insights
Authors: Clark Alexander P. , Krogh‐Madsen Trine , Christini David J.
Published: May 2024

Human induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC‐CMs) offer potential as an in vitro model for studying drug cardiotoxicity and patient‐specific cardiovascular disease. The inherent electrophysiological heterogeneity of these cells limits the depth of insights that can be drawn from well‐designed experiments. In this review, we provide our perspective on some sources and the consequences of iPSC‐CM heterogeneity. We demonstrate the extent of heterogeneity in the literature and explain how such heterogeneity is exacerbated by patch‐clamp experimental artifacts in the manual and automated set‐up. Finally, we discuss how this heterogeneity, caused by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, limits our ability to build digital twins of patient‐derived cardiomyocytes.

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Conflictos de intereses y distribución de productos de seguros en el contexto Italo-Europeo
Authors: Berti de Marinis Giovanni
Published: May 2024

El trabajo ofrece una reconstrucción crítica de las disposiciones que regulan, en el sistema ítalo-europeo de la distribución de productos de seguros, la difícil problemática de los conflictos de intereses que pueden surgir entre el distribuidor de pólizas de seguros y sus clientes. Se señala que estas normas, aun tratando de garantizar que el distribuidor actúe siempre persiguiendo el mejor interés del cliente, no consiguen, sin embargo, evitar que la conducta del profesional se vea alterada por la presencia de su propio interés personal y egoísta en conflicto con el del cliente. La presencia de conflictos de intereses sigue siendo, por tanto, una de las principales causas de conducta "infiel" por parte de los distribuidores de productos de seguro.
Avoidance Spectrum of Alexandroff Spaces
Authors: Mejias Luis , Vielma Jorge Enrique
Published: May 2024

In this paper we prove that every T0 Alexandroff topological space (X, τ ) is homeomorphic to the avoidance of a subspace of (Spec(Λ), τZ), where Spec(Λ) denotes the prime spectrum of a semi-ring Λ induced by τ and τZ is the Zariski topology. We also prove that (Spec(Λ), τZ) is an Alexandroff space if and only if Λ satisfies the Gilmer property.
Adolescentes con personalidad: estudio de caso y propuestas de mejora de una experiencia de transmisión de valores a través del cine
Authors: Ahedo Ruiz Josu , Fuentes Juan Luis , Millán Ghisleri Elda María
Published: May 2024

Resumen: El cine es un recurso de narrativa audiovisual que puede ser utilizado pedagógicamente para la transmisión de valores en la formación ético-cívica de los adolescentes. Despierta sentimientos y emociones, facilitando conectar con el mundo interior del espectador, quien es interpelado por los diferentes personajes. Las experiencias didácticas fundamentadas en el uso del cine son cada vez más frecuentes en cuanto que facilitan el análisis de modelos y promueven el diálogo y la reflexión sobre valores éticos. Adolescentes con Personalidad es un proyecto de educación en valores a través de películas y textos para jóvenes entre 12 y 17 años, que ha tenido una rápida y significativa expansión tanto en el contexto español como en el latinoamericano, encontrándose en la actualidad en 17 países.
Developing Linear-Elastic Material Models for Pressure Measurement Films in Steel–Steel and Wheel–Rail Contact
Authors: Stratmann Ina , Schindler Christian
Published: May 2024

The contact between two steel components can be identified by using multiple methods, for example, by experiments using pressure measurement films or by computational simulations with finite element analysis (FEA). For FEA material models of all components are required. When the experimental setup of an implemented pressure measurement film is reproduced simulatively, material models for the films are also necessary. Here, we developed linear-elastic material models for pressure measurement films which allow us to simulate steel-film-steel contact situations. The material models were developed for Hertzian contact situations and afterward validated for the non-Hertzian wheel–rail contact. It was possible to develop material models for three different pressure measurement film types.
Atomically dispersed hexavalent iridium oxide from MnO
2
reduction for oxygen evolution catalysis
Authors: Li Ailong , Kong Shuang , Adachi Kiyohiro , Ooka Hideshi , Fushimi Kazuna , Jiang Qike , Ofuchi Hironori , Hamamoto Satoru , Oura Masaki , Higashi Kotaro , Kaneko Takuma , Uruga Tomoya , Kawamura Naomi , Hashizume Daisuke , Nakamura Ryuhei
Published: May 2024

Hexavalent iridium (Ir
VI
) oxide is predicted to be more active and stable than any other iridium oxide for the oxygen evolution reaction in acid; however, its experimental realization remains challenging. In this work, we report the synthesis, characterization, and application of atomically dispersed Ir
VI
oxide (Ir
VI
-
ado
) for proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis. The Ir
VI
-
ado
was synthesized by oxidatively substituting the ligands of potassium hexachloroiridate(IV) (K
2
IrCl
6
) with manganese oxide (MnO
2
). The mass-specific activity (1.7 × 10
5
amperes per gram of iridium) and turnover number (1.5 × 10
8
) exceeded those of benchmark iridium oxides, and in situ x-ray analysis during PEM operations manifested the durability of Ir
VI
at current densities up to 2.3 amperes per square centimeter. The high activity and stability of Ir
VI
-
ado
showcase its promise as an anode material for PEM electrolysis.
Evolvability predicts macroevolution under fluctuating selection
Authors: Holstad Agnes , Voje Kjetil L. , Opedal Øystein H. , Bolstad Geir H. , Bourg Salomé , Hansen Thomas F. , Pélabon Christophe
Published: May 2024

Heritable variation is a prerequisite for evolutionary change, but the relevance of genetic constraints on macroevolutionary timescales is debated. By using two datasets on fossil and contemporary taxa, we show that evolutionary divergence among populations, and to a lesser extent among species, increases with microevolutionary evolvability. We evaluate and reject several hypotheses to explain this relationship and propose that an effect of evolvability on population and species divergence can be explained by the influence of genetic constraints on the ability of populations to track rapid, stationary environmental fluctuations.
Toward more naturalistic tactile sensors
Authors: Micera Silvestro
Published: May 2024

An artificial tactile system mimicking human touch enables effective object recognition
To probe outbreak, BSL-3 labs plan to infect cows with flu virus
Authors: Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: May 2024

Novel effort comes as study finds key receptor for avian flu virus in udders, where the virus flourishes
Role of the
Yersinia pestis
phospholipase D (Ymt) in the initial aggregation step of biofilm formation in the flea
Authors: Jarrett Clayton O. , Leung Jacqueline M. , Motoshi Suzuki , Sturdevant Daniel E. , Zhang Yixiang , Hoyt Forrest H. , Hinnebusch B. Joseph
Published: May 2024

Transmission of
Yersinia pestis
by fleas depends on the formation of condensed bacterial aggregates embedded within a gel-like matrix that localizes to the proventricular valve in the flea foregut and interferes with normal blood feeding. This is essentially a bacterial biofilm phenomenon, which at its end stage requires the production of a
Y. pestis
exopolysaccharide that bridges the bacteria together in a cohesive, dense biofilm that completely blocks the proventriculus. However, bacterial aggregates are evident within an hour after a flea ingests
Y. pestis
, and the bacterial exopolysaccharide is not required for this process. In this study, we characterized the biochemical composition of the initial aggregates and demonstrated that the yersinia murine toxin (Ymt), a
Y. pestis
phospholipase D, greatly enhances rapid aggregation following infected mouse blood meals. The matrix of the bacterial aggregates is complex, containing large amounts of protein and lipid (particularly cholesterol) derived from the flea’s blood meal. A similar incidence of proventricular aggregation occurred after fleas ingested whole blood or serum containing
Y. pestis
, and intact, viable bacteria were not required. The initial aggregation of
Y. pestis
in the flea gut is likely due to a spontaneous physical process termed depletion aggregation that occurs commonly in environments with high concentrations of polymers or other macromolecules and particles such as bacteria. The initial aggregation sets up subsequent binding aggregation mediated by the bacterially produced exopolysaccharide and mature biofilm that results in proventricular blockage and efficient flea-borne transmission.

IMPORTANCE

Yersinia pestis
, the bacterial agent of plague, is maintained in nature in mammal-flea-mammal transmission cycles. After a flea feeds on a mammal with septicemic plague, the bacteria rapidly coalesce in the flea’s digestive tract to form dense aggregates enveloped in a viscous matrix that often localizes to the foregut. This represents the initial stage of biofilm development that potentiates transmission of
Y. pestis
when the flea later bites a new host. The rapid aggregation likely occurs via a depletion-aggregation mechanism, a non-canonical first step of bacterial biofilm development. We found that the biofilm matrix is largely composed of host blood proteins and lipids, particularly cholesterol, and that the enzymatic activity of a
Y. pestis
phospholipase D (Ymt) enhances the initial aggregation.
Y. pestis
transmitted by flea bite is likely associated with this host-derived matrix, which may initially shield the bacteria from recognition by the host's intradermal innate immune response.
Vitamin B
12
uptake across the mycobacterial outer membrane is influenced by membrane permeability in
Mycobacterium marinum
Authors: Izquierdo Lafuente Beatriz , Verboom Theo , Coenraads Sita , Ummels Roy , Bitter Wilbert , Speer Alexander
Published: May 2024

Vitamin B
12
(B
12
) serves as a critical cofactor within mycobacterial metabolism. While some pathogenic strains can synthesize B
12
de novo
, others rely on host-acquired B
12
. In this investigation, we studied the transport of vitamin B
12
in
Mycobacterium marinum
using B
12
-auxotrophic and B
12
-sensitive strains by deleting
metH
or
metE
, respectively. These two enzymes rely on B
12
in different ways to function as methionine synthases. We used these strains to select mutants affecting B
12
scavenging and confirmed their phenotypes during growth experiments
in vitro
. Our analysis of B
12
uptake mechanisms revealed that membrane lipids and cell wall integrity play an essential role in cell envelope transport. Furthermore, we identified a potential transcription regulator that responds to B
12
. Our study demonstrates that
M. marinum
can take up exogenous B
12
and that altering mycobacterial membrane integrity affects B
12
uptake. Finally, during zebrafish infection using B
12
-auxotrophic and B
12
-sensitive strains, we found that B
12
is available for virulent mycobacteria
in vivo
.

IMPORTANCE

Our study investigates how mycobacteria acquire essential vitamin B
12
. These microbes, including those causing tuberculosis, face challenges in nutrient uptake due to their strong outer layer. We focused on
Mycobacterium marinum
, similar to TB bacteria, to uncover its vitamin B
12
absorption. We used modified strains unable to produce their own B
12
and discovered that
M. marinum
can indeed absorb it from the environment, even during infections. Changes in the outer layer composition affect this process, and genes related to membrane integrity play key roles. These findings illuminate the interaction between mycobacteria and their environment, offering insights into combatting diseases like tuberculosis through innovative strategies. Our concise research underscores the pivotal role of vitamin B
12
in microbial survival and its potential applications in disease control.
Supplemental Material: Discrimination of tectonic provinces using zircon U-Pb ages from bedrock and detrital samples in the northern Andes
Authors: Sandoval Jose Ricardo , al. et
Published: May 2024

Figures S1–S30 and Tables S1–S9. 
Obesity and dental caries in childhood: trends in prevalence and socioeconomic inequalities—a multicohort population-wide data linkage study
Authors: Stewart Ryan , Conway David I , Macpherson Lorna M D , Sherriff Andrea
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To quantify levels of coexisting obesity and caries experience in children in Scotland, and any associated socioeconomic inequalities over the years 2011/2012–2017/2018.

Design

A multicohort population-wide data linkage study.

Setting

Local authority primary schools in Scotland.

Patients

335 361 primary 1 (approximately 5 years old) schoolchildren in Scotland between 2011/2012 and 2017/2018.

Main outcome measures

Prevalence and inequalities in coexisting caries and obesity.

Results

The prevalence of coexisting obesity and caries experience was 3.4% (n=11 494 of 335 361) and did not change over the 7 years. Children living in the 20% most deprived areas had more than sixfold greater odds of coexisting obesity and caries experience than children from the 20% least deprived areas (adjusted OR=6.63 (95% CI=6.16 to 7.14; p<0.001)). There was a large persistent socioeconomic gradient across the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation groups, with the Slope and Relative Indices of Inequality remaining unchanged over the 7 cohort years.

Conclusions

Despite improvements in oral health in children in Scotland, the prevalence of coexisting obesity and caries experience has remained static, with large persistent inequalities. These conditions are likely to signal increased risk of chronic conditions including multimorbidity in adulthood and therefore early identification of children most at risk and timely intervention tackling common risk factors should be developed and evaluated.
Acute macular neuroretinopathy following Valsalva manoeuvre: an insight into the pathophysiology
Authors: Agarwal Sagar , Nayak Madhurima A , Luthra Saurabh , Parakh Shweta
Published: May 2024

Acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN) affects the outer retina and is most likely induced by non-inflammatory ischaemia of the retinal deep capillary plexus and choriocapillaris. A man in his early 20s developed Valsalva retinopathy following weightlifting at the gym and presented with blurring of vision in the left eye 1 month after the initial retinal haemorrhages had resolved. A diffuse, purplish, donut-shaped, perifoveal lesion was seen on funduscopy and was well defined by an optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) en face image in the left eye. Outer retinal changes on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and a dense co-localised scotoma on a visual field (VF) examination confirmed the diagnosis of AMN, and the patient was started on a tapering dose of oral steroids. Improvement was seen in OCT, OCTA and VF during the 6-month follow-up visit. The use of OCTA en face imaging enabled the accurate identification of the lesion in the affected layers of the retina.
Hip and core exercise programme prevents running-related overuse injuries in adult novice recreational runners: a three-arm randomised controlled trial (Run RCT)
Authors: Leppänen Mari , Viiala Janne , Kaikkonen Piia , Tokola Kari , Vasankari Tommi , Nigg Benno M , Krosshaug Tron , Werthner Penny , Parkkari Jari , Pasanen Kati
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aims to investigate the efficacy of two exercise interventions in reducing lower extremity (LE) injuries in novice recreational runners.

Methods

Novice runners (245 female, 80 male) were randomised into hip and core (n=108), ankle and foot (n=111) or control (n=106) groups. Interventions were completed before running and included exercise programmes focusing on either (1) hip and core or (2) ankle and foot muscles. The control group performed static stretching exercises. All groups were supervised by a physiotherapist and performed the same running programme. Injuries and running exposure were registered using weekly questionnaires during the 24-week study. Primary outcome was running-related LE injury.

Results

The incidence of LE injuries was lower in the hip and core group compared with the control group (HR 0.66; 95% CI 0.45 to 0.97). The average weekly prevalence of overuse injuries was 39% lower (prevalence rate ratio, PRR 0.61, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.96), and the prevalence of substantial overuse injuries was 52% lower (PRR 0.48, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.90) in the hip and core group compared with the control group. No significant difference was observed between the ankle and foot group and control group in the prevalence of overuse injuries. A higher incidence of acute injuries was observed in the ankle and foot group compared with the control group (HR 3.60, 95% CI 1.20 to 10.86).

Conclusion

A physiotherapist-guided hip and core-focused exercise programme was effective in preventing LE injuries in novice recreational runners. The ankle and foot programme did not reduce LE injuries and did not protect against acute LE injuries when compared with static stretching.
Six aspects of female genital mutilation education (SAFE) model: findings from a qualitative study
Authors: Waigwa Susan , Bradbury-Jones Caroline , Doos Lucy , Taylor Julie
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Recent figures show that over 200 million women and girls, globally, live with the consequences of female genital mutilation (FGM). Complex debilitating physical, psychological and social problems result from the practice. Health education interventions have proven to be essential in both preventing the practice and informing support of survivors. In this study, we aimed to explore factors that affect the effectiveness of health education interventions.

Design

A generic qualitative approach was applied using semistructured individual and focus group interviews with women and men from communities with a history of FGM in Birmingham, UK. Framework analysis was used to group recurring themes from the data. Intersectionality was used as a theoretical lens to synthesise findings.

Participants

Twenty-one individuals (18 women and 3 men) participated in semistructured individual and focus group interviews about their views and experiences of health and well-being intervention programmes related to FGM.

Results

Six themes emerged from the data and were developed into a model of issues relating to FGM education. These six themes are (1) active communication, (2) attitudes and beliefs, (3) knowledge about FGM, (4) social structures, (5) programme approach and (6) the better future. A combined discussion of all these issues was compressed into three groupings: social structures, culture and media.

Conclusion

The results of this study depict aspects associated with FGM education that should be considered by future interventions aiming to prevent the practice and inform support services for survivors in a holistic way.
Perfusion outcomes with near-infrared indocyanine green imaging system in laparoscopic total mesorectal excision for mid-rectal or low-rectal cancer (POSTER): a study protocol
Authors: Sun Liting , Gao Jiale , Wu Guocong , Meng Cong , Yang Zhengyang , Wei Pengyu , Yao Hongwei , Zhang Zhongtao
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is defined as the failure of complete healing or disruption of the anastomosis subsequent to rectal cancer surgery, resulting in the extravasation of intestinal contents into the intra-abdominal or pelvic cavity. It is a serious complication of rectal cancer surgery, accounting for a considerable increase in morbidity and mortality. The use of fluorescence imaging technology in surgery allows surgeons to better evaluate blood perfusion. However, the conclusions of some existing studies are not consistent, so a consensus on whether the near-infrared indocyanine green (NIR–ICG) imaging system can reduce the incidence of AL is needed.

Methods

This POSTER trial is designed as a multicentre, prospective, randomised controlled clinical study adhering to the “population, interventions, comparisons, outcomes (PICO)” principles. It is scheduled to take place from August 2019 to December 2024 across eight esteemed hospitals in China. The target population consists of patients diagnosed with rectal cancer through pathological confirmation, with tumours located≤10 cm from the anal verge, eligible for laparoscopic surgery. Enrolled patients will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The intervention group will receive intravenous injections of ICG twice, with intraoperative assessment of anastomotic blood flow using the near-infrared NIR–ICG system during total mesorectal excision (TME) surgery. Conversely, the control group will undergo conventional TME surgery without the use of the NIR-ICG system. A 30-day follow-up period postoperation will be conducted to monitor and evaluate occurrences of AL. The primary endpoint of this study is the incidence of AL within 30 days postsurgery in both groups. The primary outcome investigators will be blinded to the application of ICG angiography. Based on prior literature, we hypothesise an AL rate of 10.3% in the control group and 3% in the experimental group for this study. With a planned ratio of 2:1 between the number of cases in the experimental and control groups, and an expected 20% lost-to-follow-up rate, the initial estimated sample size for this study is 712, comprising 474 in the experimental group and 238 in the control group.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by Ethics committee of Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University (approval number: 2019-P2-055-02). The results will be disseminated in major international conferences and peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT04012645.
Pulsed field ablation with the pentaspline catheter compared with cryoablation for the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in the UK NHS: a cost-comparison analysis
Authors: Duxbury Claire , Begley David , Heck Patrick M
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a promising new ablation modality for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) that has recently become available in the UK National Health Service (NHS). We provide the first known economic evaluation of the technology.

Methods

A cost-comparison model was developed to compare the expected 12-month costs of treating AF using the pentaspline PFA catheter compared with cryoablation for a single hypothetical patient. Model parameters were based on a recent cost-effectiveness analysis by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence where possible or published literature otherwise. Deterministic sensitivity, scenario and threshold analyses were conducted.

Results

Costs for a single patient treated with PFA were −3% (−£343) less over 12 months than those who received treatment with cryoablation. PFA was associated with 16% higher catheter costs but repeat ablation costs were over 50% less, driven by a reduction in repeat ablations required. Costs of managing complications were −£211 less in total for PFA compared with cryoablation.

Conclusions

Routine adoption of PFA with the pentaspline PFA catheter looks to be as affordable for the NHS as current treatment alternative cryoablation.
Pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block: what have we learned in the last 5 years?
Authors: Girón-Arango Laura , Peng Philip
Published: May 2024

This educational article discusses the current understanding of the pericaspular nerve group block (PENG) of the hip regarding its mechanism of action and spread patterns, as well as plausible explanations for postblock quadriceps weakness. Finally, we will discuss the recent evidence of PENG block as an analgesic block in hip fractures and in different hip surgeries.
P058 Demand for pre exposure prophylaxis for hiv (PREP) and the impact on clinical services: scottish men who have sex with men (MSM) perspectives
Authors: Gilson Rebecca , Clutterbuck Daniel
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Studies have assessed awareness and interest in taking PrEP but there is less data on ability and willingness to self-fund. Our aim was to assess how many eligible (high risk, PROUD study criteria) may want PrEP, how many ineligible (lower risk) MSM would be willing and able to self-fund and how PrEP may impact on risk taking behaviour.

Methods

Self-completed anonymous questionnaireQuestions included sexual risk and risk frequency, willingness to take PrEP, income, willingness to self fund and impact on risk taking.

Results

Of 377 participants, 81.5% were aware of PrEP. 53 (15.5%) were eligible, of whom 50 (94.3%) aware of PrEP and 50 (94.3%) likely to want it. Of those ineligible, 229 (80%) aware of PrEP and 171 (60%) likely to want it. The majority of men reported they would not be more likely to have condomless sex or increase partner numbers.

Discussion

Levels of awareness of PrEP in our population were much higher than the 30% previously reported in Scotland. Previous studies showed 50% would be willing to take PrEP. In this study, 94.3% of the 15.5% of men eligible and 60% of those ineligible were likely to want it. This will have implications for discussions and monitoring. A systematic review of PrEP6found no difference in condom use or numbers of partners. Our study indicates that men believe that risk taking behaviour will likely not increase.
P094 Impact of an HIV educational program on rates of late HIV diagnosis in an area of high prevalence
Authors: Sampath-Ring Kyle , Abbott Jane , Saram Sophia de , Obeyesekera Sharmin , Theodore Cecelia , Hooi Alex , Dhairyawan Rageshri
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Late HIV diagnosis is an important determinant of morbidity and mortality. An audit of new HIV diagnoses in our service based an area of high prevalence, showed high rates of late diagnosis in 2012, so an HIV education programme was implemented within the Trust. We re-audited new diagnoses in 2015 to look at the impact of the programme and compared the results.

Methods

A retrospective case-note review of all newly diagnosed patients seen in our HIV clinic from 1stJanuary 2015 – 31stDecember 2015.

Results

53 patients were identified in comparison to 56 in 2012, of which 64% were male compared with 55% in 2012. Median age was 41.5 years (range 21 – 68) compared with 39.5 years (range 20 – 64) in 2012. 53% were diagnosed with a CD4 count <350 cells/mm3compared with 63% in 2012 and 34% had a CD4 count <200 cells/mm3compared with 45% <200cells/mm3in 2012. 51% had been seen in the preceding year by doctor, compared with 52% in 2012. 49% were diagnosed in a sexual health service compared with 39% in 2012.

Discussion

Our re-audit showed continued high rates of late diagnosis despite a dedicated educational programme. This suggests that education alone is not sufficient to cause a sustained impact on late diagnosis rates. HIV testing needs to be embedded in routine clinical care, such as opt out testing as advised in UK national testing guidelines, or by using pathology system alerts to suggest testing if blood results are indicative.
P146 Has the accuracy of shhapt coding improved?
Authors: Blee Karla , Horn Kate
Published: May 2024

Introduction

An audit in 2013 suggested that only 69% of attendances and 64% of Sexual Health and HIV Activity Property Type (SHHAPT) codes were correctly assigned. SHHAPT coding supports the monitoring and reporting of STIs, facilitating robust assessment of service needs, enabling informed planning and better allocation of limited resources at all levels to reduce the level of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). To achieve this coding requires accuracy and consistency and so the audit was repeated in 2016 to assess whether SHHAPT coding in this region had improved.

Methods

Six new clinical scenarios were circulated to clinics in one UK region requesting that up to five individuals that regularly participate in completing the SHHAPT code assign an appointment type and the relevant SHHAPT code to each of them. The same scenarios were sent to Public Health England (PHE) and completed to provide the standard.

Results

The percentage of correctly assigned attendances is 86% and SHHAPT codes are 75%, respectively.

Discussion

Comparing the results from 2016 to 2013, recording of attendance type has improved to 86%, up by 17% and coding of the clinical scenarios to 78%, up by 14%.

Since 2013 new guidance and codes have been issued by PHE. To continue this improvement we suggest that at each regional meeting any new changes in the SHHAPT coding is highlighted and ask those clinicians attending to circulate to those within their department in a way that they belive to be most effective.
P155 Evaluating the effectiveness of gram stain microscopy in identifying gram negative intracellular diplococci suggestive of gonorrhoea neisseria
Authors: Rashbrook Stephanie , Bittencourt-Vargas Isabella , Grundy-Bowers Matthew
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Gram stain microscopy is an effective tool in the management of gonorrhoea in symptomatic patients, allowing for the visual identification of suspicious bacteria, which when also considering the history and risk, can be indicative of a current gonorrhoea infection allowing for rapid treatment and partner notification initiation. This is an on-going audit to verify the effectiveness of in-house diagnostics.

Methods

All patients found to have a positive culture result for gonorrhoea had their notes reviewed to ascertain if presumptive gonorrhoea had been diagnosed at attendance as well as the presence of symptoms, contact status and vaginal flora grade (in women). If microscopy was undertaken but negative, the slide was also reviewed. Slides found to be positive were feedback to staff members.

Results

Data from July 2016 – January 2017:

Male urethral samples

147/157 (93.6%) infections were correctly identified, when asymptomatic contacts were excluded 147/154 (95.5%) were identified, and of those not identified, 4 were negative on review.

Female cervical samples

5/20 (25%) infections were correctly identified, when asymptomatic contacts were excluded 5/19 (26.3%) were identified. Of those not diagnosed on the day, 9 were negative on review.

Discussion

Microscopy identified 95.5% of symptomatic male urethral infections and 26.3% of female cervical samples. There was also a low ‘failure’ rate, only 7/24 slides were positive on review and therefore ‘true missed’ on day diagnoses. Effective on day diagnosis can prevent further transmission, allow faster access to antibiotics, allow for prompt partner notification and is a rewarding skill for the GU staff.