bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A mixed methods study of seasonal influenza vaccine hesitancy in adults with chronic respiratory conditions
Authors: Williams Lynn , Deakin Karen , Gallant Allyson , Rasmussen Susan , Young David , Cogan Nicola 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundSeasonal influenza vaccination is recommended for patients with chronic respiratory conditions, but uptake is suboptimal. We undertook a comprehensive mixed methods study in order to examine the barriers and enablers to influenza vaccination in patients with chronic respiratory conditions.MethodsMixed methods including a survey (n=429) which assessed socio-demographics and the psychological factors associated with vaccine uptake (i.e. confidence, complacency, constraints, calculation and collective responsibility) with binary logistic regression analysis. We also undertook focus groups and interviews (n=59) to further explore barriers and enablers to uptake using thematic analysis.ResultsThe survey analysis identified that older participants were more likely to accept the vaccine, as were those with higher perceptions of collective responsibility around vaccination, lower levels of complacency, and lower levels of constraints. Thematic analysis showed that concerns over vaccine side effects, lack of tailored information and knowledge, and a lack of trust and rapport with healthcare professionals were key barriers. In contrast, the importance of feeling protected, acceptance of being part of an at-risk group, and feeling a reduced sense of vulnerability after vaccination were seen as key enablers.ConclusionsOur findings showed that the decision to accept a vaccine against influenza is influenced by multiple sociodemographic and psychological factors. Future interventions should provide clear and transparent information about side effects and be tailored to patients with chronic respiratory conditions. Interactions between patients and their healthcare providers have a particularly important role to play in helping patients address their concerns and feel confident in vaccination.
COVID-19 Mortality in California Based on Death Certificates: Disproportionate Impacts Across Racial/Ethnic Groups and Nativity
Authors: Garcia Erika , Eckel Sandrah P. , Chen Zhanghua , Li Kenan , Gilliland Frank D. 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACTPurposeTo examine characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) decedents in California (CA) and evaluate for disproportionate mortality across race/ethnicity and ethnicity/nativity.MethodsCOVID-19 deaths were identified from death certificates. Age-adjusted mortality rate ratios (MRR) were compared across race/ethnicity. Proportionate mortality rates (PMR) were compared across race/ethnicity and by ethnicity/nativity.ResultsWe identified 10,200 COVID-19 deaths in CA occurring February 1 through July 31, 2020. Decedents tended to be older, male, Hispanic, foreign-born, and have lower educational attainment. MRR indicated elevated COVID-19 morality rates among Asian/Pacific Islander, Black, and Hispanic groups compared with the White group, with Black and Hispanic groups having the highest MRR at 2.75 (95%CI:2.54-2.97) and 4.18 (95%CI: 3.99-4.37), respectively. Disparities were larger at younger ages. Similar results were observed with PMR, which remained in analyses stratified by education. Elevated PMR were observed in all ethnicity/nativity groups, especially foreign-born Hispanic individuals, relative to U.S.-born non-Hispanic individuals, were generally larger at younger ages, and persisted after stratifying by education.ConclusionsDifferential COVID-19 mortality was observed in California across racial/ethnic groups and by ethnicity/nativity groups with evidence of greater disparities among younger age groups. Identifying COVID-19 disparities is an initial step towards mitigating disease impacts in vulnerable communities.
Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) Opportunities on Health Education (HE) during of mandatory social isolation context
Authors: Dolores-Maldonado Gandy , Cañari-Casaño Jorge L. , Montero-Romainville Rosalia , Málaga Germán 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundRoutine care for prevention and health promotion has reduced significantly due to the Covid-19 pandemic and mandatory social isolation measures. In this context, it is necessary to identify and describe Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) that provide opportunities for health education, promotion, and prevention aimed at the general population. The study is a systematic review of MOOCs on health education, health promotion, and prevention for the general population in a pandemic context.MethodsWe developed a search for MOOC courses aimed at the general population on health education, health promotion, and prevention in different MOOC available platforms. We executed a descriptive analysis of the main characteristics of the selected MOOCs.ResultsThere were 117 MOOCs chosen on Health education, promotion, and prevention for the general population. Coursera (40.3%) was the platform that offered the highest quantity of MOOCs; more than half of MOOCs language was in English (52.9%). The median duration time in hours of the selected MOOCs was 11 (IR 6-15). The predominant themes were “Health promotion” (43%) and “Food and nutrition” (31%), and the origin was mainly from Europe (37.8%).ConclusionsMOOCs offerings in Health Education (HE) is diverse, predominantly in English, of European origin, and in health promotion issues. This study opens an opportunity to multiply initiatives in different territories, considering other languages and topics more akin to each territorial reality, allowing it to be a more equitable learning opportunity in times of pandemic and compulsory social isolation.FUNDINGNone.
Aging-induced isoDGR-modified fibronectin activates monocytic and endothelial cells to promote atherosclerosis
Authors: Park Jung Eun , JebaMercy Gnanasekaran , Pazhanchamy Kalailingam , Guo Xue , Ngan SoFong Cam , Kang Liou Ken Cheng , Lynn Soe EinSi , Ng Ser Sue , Meng Wei , Lim Su Chi , Leow Melvin Khee-Shing , Richards A Mark , Pennington Daniel J , de Kleijn Dominique P.V. , Sorokin Vitaly , Ho Hee Hwa , McCarthy Neil E. , Sze Siu Kwan 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackground and AimsAging is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the mechanisms underlying age-linked atherosclerosis remain unclear. We previously observed that long-lived vascular matrix proteins can acquire ‘gain-of-function’ isoDGR motifs that might play a role in atherosclerotic pathology.MethodsIsoDGR-specific mAb were generated and used for ELISA-based measurement of motif levels in plasma samples from patients with coronary artery diseases (CAD) and non-CAD controls. Functional consequences of isoDGR accumulation in age-damaged fibronectin were determined by bioassay for capacity to activate monocytes, macrophages, and endothelial cells (signalling activity, pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, and recruitment/adhesion potential). Mice deficient in the isoDGR repair enzyme PCMT1 were used to assess motif distribution and macrophage localisationin vivo.ResultsIsoDGR-modified fibronectin and fibrinogen levels in patient plasma were significantly enhanced in CAD and further associated with smoking status. Functional assays demonstrated that isoDGR-modified fibronectin activated both monocytes and macrophages via integrin receptor ‘outside in’ signalling, triggering an ERK:AP-1 cascade and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines MCP-1 and TNFα to drive additional recruitment of circulating leukocytes. IsoDGR-modified fibronectin also induced endothelial cell expression of integrin β1 to further enhance cellular adhesion and matrix deposition. Analysis of murine aortic tissues confirmed accumulation of isoDGR-modified proteins co-localised with CD68+ macrophagesin vivo.ConclusionsAge-damaged fibronectin features isoDGR motifs that increase binding to integrins on the surface of monocytes, macrophages, and endothelial cells. Subsequent activation of ‘outside-in’ signalling elicits a range of potent cytokines and chemokines that drive additional leukocyte recruitment to the developing atherosclerotic matrix.Graphical AbstractHighlightsIsoDGR-modified plasma proteins are associated with CAD.IsoDGR binding to integrin receptors on monocytes, macrophage, and endothelial cells promotes ‘outside-in’ signalling, monocyte infiltration, and endothelial binding.IsoDGR-modified fibronectin may initiate vascular inflammation in atherosclerotic CVD.
Impact of COVID-19 pre-test probability on positive predictive value of high cycle threshold SARS-CoV-2 real-time reverse transcription PCR test results
Authors: Gubbay Jonathan B. , Rilkoff Heather , Kristjanson Heather L. , Forbes Jessica D. , Murti Michelle , Eshaghi AliReza , Broukhanski George , Corbeil Antoine , Fittipaldi Nahuel , Hopkins Jessica P. , Kristjanson Erik , Kus Julianne V. , Macdonald Liane , Majury Anna , Mallo Gustavo V , Mazzulli Tony , Melano Roberto G. , Olsha Romy , Perusini Stephen J. , Tran Vanessa , Allen Vanessa G , Patel Samir N 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACTBackgroundPerformance characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection assays are understudied within contexts of low pre-test probability, including screening asymptomatic persons without epidemiological links to confirmed cases, or asymptomatic surveillance testing. SARS-CoV-2 detection without symptoms may represent resolved infection with persistent RNA shedding, presymptomatic or asymptomatic infection, or a false positive test. This study assessed clinical specificity of SARS-CoV-2 real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) assays by retesting positive specimens from five pre-test probability groups ranging from high to low with an alternate assay.Materials and MethodsA total of 122 rRT-PCR positive specimens collected from unique patients between March and July 2020 were retested using a laboratory-developed nested RT-PCR assay targeting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene followed by Sanger sequencing.ResultsSignificantly less positive results in the lowest pre-test probability group (facilities with institution-wide screening having ≤ 3 positive asymptomatic cases) were reproduced with the nested RdRp gene RT-PCR assay than in all other groups combined (5/32, 15·6% vs 61/90, 68%; p <0·0001), and in each subgroup with higher pre-test probability (individual subgroup range 50·0% to 85·0%).ConclusionsA higher proportion of false-positive test results are likely with lower pre-test probability. Positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR results should be interpreted within the context of patient history, clinical setting, known exposure, and estimated community disease prevalence. Large-scale SARS-CoV-2 screening testing initiatives among low pre-test probability populations should be evaluated thoroughly prior to implementation given the risk of false positives and consequent potential for harm at the individual and population level.
Structural basis for the hyperthermostability of an archaeal glutaminase induced by post-translational succinimide formation
Authors: Dongre Aparna Vilas , Das Sudip , Bellur Asutosh , Kumar Sanjeev , Chandrashekarmath Anusha , Karmakar Tarak , Balaram Padmanabhan , Balasubramanian Sundaram , Balaram Hemalatha 
Published: March 2021

AbstractStability of proteins from hyperthermophiles enabled by reduction of conformational flexibility is realized through various mechanisms. Presence of a stable, hydrolysis-resistant succinimide arising from cyclization of the side chains of aspartyl/asparaginyl residues with backbone amide -NH of the succeeding residue would restrain the torsion angle Ψ. Here, we describe the crystal structure ofMethanocaldococcus jannaschiiglutamine amidotransferase (MjGATase) and address the mechanism of a succinimide-induced increased thermostability using molecular dynamics simulations. This study reveals the interplay of negatively charged electrostatic shield and n→π* interactions in preventing succinimide hydrolysis. The stable succinimidyl residue induces formation of a ‘conformational-lock’, reducing protein flexibility. Protein destabilization upon replacement with the Φ-restricted prolyl residue highlights the specificity of the conformationally restrained succinimidyl residue in imparting hyperthermostability. The conservation of succinimide-forming tripeptide sequence (E(N/D)(E/D)) in a group of archaeal GATases suggests an adaptation of this otherwise detrimental post-translational modification as an inducer of thermostability.
AMPylation is a specific lysosomal protein posttranslational modification in neuronal maturation
Authors: Becker Tobias , Cappel Cedric , Matteo Francesco Di , Sonsalla Giovanna , Kaminska Ewelina , Spada Fabio , Cappello Silvia , Damme Markus , Kielkowski Pavel 
Published: March 2021

SummaryProtein AMPylation is a pervasive posttranslational modification with an emerging role in neurodevelopment. In metazoans the two highly conserved protein AMP-transferases together with a diverse group of AMPylated proteins have been identified using chemical proteomics and biochemical techniques. However, the function of this modification remains largely unknown. Particularly problematic is the localization of thus far identified AMPylated proteins and putative AMP-transferases. Here, we uncover protein AMPylation as a novel posttranslational modification of luminal lysosomal proteins characteristic in differentiating neurons. Through a combination of chemical proteomics, advanced gel-based separation of modified and unmodified proteins and activity assay, we show that an AMPylated, lysosomal soluble form of exonuclease PLD3 increases dramatically during neuronal maturation and that AMPylation inhibits its catalytic activity. Together, our findings unveil so far unknown lysosomal posttranslational modification, its connection to neuronal differentiation and putatively provide a novel molecular rationale to design of therapeutics for lysosomal storage diseases.
Modelling the impact of decidual senescence on embryo implantation in human endometrial assembloids
Authors: Rawlings Thomas M. , Makwana Komal , Taylor Deborah M. , Molè Matteo A. , Fishwick Katherine J. , Tryfonos Maria , Odendaal Joshua , Hawkes Amelia , Zernicka-Goetz Magdalena , Hartshorne Geraldine M. , Brosens Jan J. , Lucas Emma S. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractDecidual remodelling of midluteal endometrium leads to a short implantation window after which the uterine mucosa either breaks down or is transformed into a robust matrix that accommodates the placenta throughout pregnancy. To gain insights into the underlying mechanisms, we established and characterised endometrial assembloids, consisting of gland organoids and primary stromal cells. Single-cell transcriptomics revealed that decidualized assembloids closely resemble midluteal endometrium, harbouring differentiated and senescent subpopulations in both glands and stroma. We show that acute senescence in glandular epithelium drives secretion of multiple canonical implantation factors, whereas in the stroma it calibrates the emergence of anti-inflammatory decidual cells and pro-inflammatory senescent decidual cells. Pharmacological inhibition of stress responses in pre-decidual cells accelerated decidualization by inhibiting senescence and mesenchymal-epithelial transition, processes involved in endometrial breakdown and regeneration, respectively. Accelerated decidualization resulted in entrapment of co-cultured human blastocysts in a largely static decidual matrix. By contrast, the presence of senescent decidual cells created a dynamic implantation environment, enabling embryo expansion and attachment, although their persistence led to gradual disintegration of assembloids. Our findings demonstrate that senescence controls endometrial fate decisions at implantation and highlight how endometrial assembloids may accelerate the discovery of new treatments to prevent reproductive failure.
BonZeb: Open-source, modular software tools for high-resolution zebrafish tracking and analysis
Authors: Guilbeault Nicholas C. , Guerguiev Jordan , Martin Michael , Tate Isabelle , Thiele Tod R. 
Published: March 2021

AbstractWe present BonZeb – a suite of modular Bonsai packages which allow high-resolution zebrafish tracking with dynamic visual feedback. Bonsai is an increasingly popular software platform that is accelerating the standardization of experimental protocols within the neurosciences due to its speed, flexibility, and minimal programming overhead. BonZeb can be implemented into novel and existing Bonsai workflows for online behavioral tracking and offline tracking with batch processing. We demonstrate that BonZeb can run a variety of experimental configurations used for gaining insights into the neural mechanisms of zebrafish behavior. BonZeb supports head-fixed closed-loop and free-swimming virtual open-loop assays as well as multi-animal tracking, optogenetic stimulation, and calcium imaging during behavior. The combined performance, ease of use and versatility of BonZeb opens new experimental avenues for researchers seeking high-resolution behavioral tracking of larval zebrafish.
Zika virus hijacks extracellular vesicle tetraspanin pathways for cell-to-cell transmission
Authors: York Sara B. , Sun Li , Cone Allaura S. , Duke Leanne C. , Cheerathodi Mujeeb R. , Meckes David G. 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACTExtracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-encapsulated structures released by cells which carry signaling factors, proteins and microRNAs that mediate intercellular communication. Accumulating evidence supports an important role of EVs in the progression of neurological conditions and both the spread and pathogenesis of infectious diseases. It has recently been demonstrated that EVs from Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected individuals and cells contained replicative-competent viral RNA that was capable of infecting hepatocytes. Being a member of the same viral family, it is likely the Zika virus also hijacks EV pathways to package viral components and secrete vesicles that are infectious and potentially less immunogenic. As EVs have been shown to cross blood-brain and placental barriers, it is possible that Zika virus could usurp normal EV biology to gain access to the brain or developing fetus. Here, we demonstrate that Zika virus infected cells secrete distinct EV sub-populations with specific viral protein profiles and infectious genomes. Zika virus infection resulted in the enhanced production of EVs with varying sizes and density compared to those released from non-infected cells. We also show that the EV enriched tetraspanin CD63 regulates the release of EVs, and Zika viral genomes and capsids following infection. Overall, these findings provide evidence for an alternative means of Zika virus transmission and demonstrate the role of EV biogenesis and trafficking proteins in the modulation of Zika infection.ImportanceZika virus is a re-emerging infectious disease that spread rapidly across the Caribbean and South America. Infection of pregnant women during the first trimester has been linked to microcephaly, a neurological condition where babies are born with smaller heads due to abnormal brain development. Babies born with microcephaly can develop convulsions and suffer disabilities as they age. Despite the significance of Zika virus, little is known about how the virus infects the fetus or causes disease. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-encapsulated structures released by cells that are present in all biological fluids. EVs carry signaling factors, proteins and microRNAs that mediate intercellular communication. EVs have been shown to be a means by which some viruses can alter cellular environments and cross previously unpassable cellular barriers. Thus gaining a greater understanding of how Zika affects EV cargo may aid in the development of better diagnostics, targeted therapeutics and prophylactic treatments.
The role of social media elements in driving co-creation and engagement
Authors: Cheung Man Lai , Pires Guilherme , Rosenberger III Philip J. , Leung Wilson K.S. , Chang Man Kit 
Published: March 2021

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop and empirically test a research model examining the impact of five social media marketing (SMM) elements–entertainment, customization, interactivity, electronic-word-of-mouth (eWOM) and trendiness–on consumers' intent to participate in value co-creation and on consumer–brand engagement (CBE) and perceived brand value in turn.Design/methodology/approachThe research model is tested for wearable healthcare technology, a smart-technology product. Data were collected in China from 294 users using a self-administered online survey. Data analysis uses partial least squares – structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).FindingsEntertainment, customization and eWOM are the key predictors in driving consumers' value co-creation intention, thereby strengthening the value co-creation process, CBE and perceived brand value. In contrast with previous studies in the area of value co-creation and CBE, the impact of interactivity and trendiness on value co-creation intention is non-significant.Research limitations/implicationsThe research contributes to the literature by providing an understanding of how to use SMM dimensions to drive consumers' value co-creation intention for smart-technology products, such as healthcare-wearable technology. However, this study is cross-sectional in nature and its focus is solely on wearable healthcare technology in China. To enhance the generalizability of the findings, future research might consider a longitudinal design and include comparisons between countries with diverse cultures, along with other types of smart-technology products.Practical implicationsThe findings provide guidance for marketers to enhance CBE and perceived brand value by strengthening consumers' value co-creation intention, using SMM with entertaining and customized content and encouraging positive referrals on social-media platforms.Originality/valueScholarly attention on the importance of SMM in strengthening consumers' value co-creation intention and CBE is limited, and the question of which SMM elements are effective in driving value co-creation and its link to perceived brand value has not been examined. This paper contributes to the marketing literature by developing and empirically testing a research model, revealing entertainment, customization and eWOM as key SMM elements driving value co-creation intention and CBE for a smart-technology product in China.
Do institutional networks affect winery survival?
Authors: Fernández-Olmos Marta , Gargallo-Castel Ana Felicitas , Malorgio Giulio 
Published: March 2021

PurposeThe present study aims to provide new evidence regarding the factors that determine the survival of firms in the Spanish wine industry and to improve the understanding of sector dynamics.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical analysis, conducted over a representative sample of wineries in the DOC Rioja wine industry, is based on non-parametric (Kaplan–Meier graph) and semi-parametric survival models (Cox proportional hazard model).FindingsThe empirical model finds that wineries with a higher number of networks with institutions enjoy better survival prospects. This study also shows that a winery’s previous performance affects the winery’s survival probability; therefore, successful wineries in the past encounter a smaller hazard of exit. Although spending on R&D and exporting are factors likely to improve wineries' efficiency and competitiveness, these factors did not contribute significantly to the survival of DOC Rioja wineries.Originality/valueThis paper makes a significant contribution to the understanding of the determinants of wineries' survival and has important policy implications. In order to raise the probability of survival, policy makers should promote the networks that link wineries and institutions. Moreover, this study is based on survival analysis which, although frequently used in medical and behavioural sciences, has rarely been applied to wine economics. Finally, it uses a unique data set obtained from primary data collection, which previous studies have not analysed in relation to the probability of winery survival.