bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Developing Linear-Elastic Material Models for Pressure Measurement Films in Steel–Steel and Wheel–Rail Contact
Authors: Stratmann Ina , Schindler Christian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
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.
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

ABSTRACT

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

ABSTRACT

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.
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

ObjectivesTo quantify levels of coexisting obesity and caries experience in children in Scotland, and any associated socioeconomic inequalities over the years 2011/2012–2017/2018.DesignA multicohort population-wide data linkage study.SettingLocal authority primary schools in Scotland.Patients335 361 primary 1 (approximately 5 years old) schoolchildren in Scotland between 2011/2012 and 2017/2018.Main outcome measuresPrevalence and inequalities in coexisting caries and obesity.ResultsThe 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.ConclusionsDespite 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.
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

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

ObjectivesRecent 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.DesignA 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.ParticipantsTwenty-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.ResultsSix 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.ConclusionThe 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

IntroductionAnastomotic 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.MethodsThis 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 disseminationThis 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 numberNCT04012645.
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

ObjectivesPulsed 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.MethodsA 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.ResultsCosts 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.ConclusionsRoutine adoption of PFA with the pentaspline PFA catheter looks to be as affordable for the NHS as current treatment alternative cryoablation.
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

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

IntroductionLate 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.MethodsA retrospective case-note review of all newly diagnosed patients seen in our HIV clinic from 1stJanuary 2015 – 31stDecember 2015.Results53 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.DiscussionOur 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

IntroductionAn 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.MethodsSix 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.ResultsThe percentage of correctly assigned attendances is 86% and SHHAPT codes are 75%, respectively.DiscussionComparing 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

IntroductionGram 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.MethodsAll 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.ResultsData from July 2016 – January 2017:Male urethral samples147/157 (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 samples5/20 (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.DiscussionMicroscopy 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.