bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Structure and effect onBifidobacterium longumof exopolysaccharide produced byWeissella cibariausing cost-effective substrates
Authors: Wang Xiaoying , Zhang Fan , Wang Lin , Pan Lei 
Published: February 2023

AbstractMaize straw, an abundant agricultural residue, has potential as an eco-friendly resource. The aim of this study was to investigate the structure and effect on Bifidobacterium longum of exopolysaccharide produced by Weissella cibaria using maize straw as a carbon source. In this work, an exopolysaccharide-producing strain was isolated from vegetable juice, which was identified as W. cibaria. Our results demonstrated that exopolysaccharide produced by W. cibaria is a linear glucan containing an α-1,6 glycosidic bond with a molecular weight of 9462 Da. In addition, scanning electron microscopy of exopolysaccharide from W. cibaria revealed the flake structures. In vitro assays showed that the exopolysaccharide from W. cibaria has the ability to stimulate the proliferation of B. longum strain and its metabolism to produce acetic acid. This work provides a scientific reference for the potential application of maize straw and a new insight into an eco-friendly carbon source to produce exopolysaccharide.
Genetic population structure in Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus): management regime under panmixia
Authors: Westgaard Jon-Ivar , Søvik Guldborg , Johansen Torild 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
Investigations of genetic stock structure sometimes reveal a mismatch between management units and biological units. In Scandinavian waters, Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) is divided into two management units (the Skagerrak–Kattegat and the Norwegian Deep). We have tested the population genetic structure of Nephrops within this region using microsatellite DNA markers, and compared the structure with the present management units. Our study suggests no population genetic structure of Nephrops within the Skagerrak, Kattegat, and Norwegian Deep region, whereas a shallow genetic structure was detected on a larger geographical scale when comparing outgroup samples from Scotland and Iceland. We found indications of sex-biased dispersal as the overall genetic differences were larger for females. Ocean current patterns suggest that Nephrops stocks in the region may be connected by larval drift. The two areas differ in fishing pressure, monitoring, assessment, and regulations, which is an argument for maintaining the present two-areas management regime despite the evidence for one biological population.
Comparative study of male and female patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement
Authors: Çelik Mevlüt , Milojevic Milan , Durko Andras P , Oei Frans B S , Bogers Ad J J C , Mahtab Edris A F 
Published: February 2023

AbstractBACKGROUNDSex does have an effect on disease perception and outcomes after cardiac surgery.OBJECTIVESThe aim of this study was to quantify the differences in cardiovascular risk profiles within an age-matched cohort and assess the long-term survival differences in males and females who underwent surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) with or without concomitant coronary artery bypass surgery.METHODSAll-comers patients who underwent SAVR with or without coronary artery bypass surgery were included. Characteristics, clinical features and survival up to 30 years were compared between female and male patients. Propensity matching and age matching using propensity scores were used to compare both groups.RESULTSDuring the total study period between 1987 and 2017, there were 3462 patients {mean age 66.8 [standard deviation (SD): 11.1] years, 37.1% female} who underwent SAVR with or without coronary artery bypass surgery at our institution. In general, female patients were older than male patients (69.1 (SD : 10.3) versus 65.5 (SD : 11.3), respectively). In the age-matched cohort, female patients were less likely to have multiple comorbidities and undergo concomitant coronary artery bypass surgery. Twenty-year survival following the index procedure was higher in age-matched female patients (27.1%) compared to male patients (24.4%) in the overall cohort (P = 0.018).CONCLUSIONSSubstantial sex differences in cardiovascular risk profile exist. However, when SAVR with or without coronary artery bypass surgery is performed, extended long-term mortality is comparable between males and females. More research regarding sex-dimorphic mechanisms of aortic stenosis and coronary atherosclerosis would promote more awareness in terms of sex-specific risk factors after cardiac surgery and contribute to more guided personalized surgery in the future.
Incidence and Predictors of Breakthrough and Severe Breakthrough Infections of SARS-CoV-2 After Primary Series Vaccination in Adults: A Population-Based Survey of 22 575 Participants
Authors: DeSantis Stacia M , Yaseen Ashraf , Hao Tianyao , León-Novelo Luis , Talebi Yashar , Valerio-Shewmaker Melissa A , Pinzon Gomez Cesar L , Messiah Sarah E , Kohl Harold W , Kelder Steven H , Ross Jessica A , Padilla Lindsay N , Silberman Mark , Tuzo Samantha , Lakey David , Shuford Jennifer A , Pont Stephen J , Boerwinkle Eric , Swartz Michael D 
Published: February 2023

Abstract

Background
Breakthrough infections of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are well documented. The current study estimates breakthrough incidence across pandemic waves, and evaluates predictors of breakthrough and severe breakthrough infections (defined as those requiring hospitalization).

Methods
In total, 89 762 participants underwent longitudinal antibody surveillance. Incidence rates were calculated using total person-days contributed. Bias-corrected and age-adjusted logistic regression determined multivariable predictors of breakthrough and severe breakthrough infection, respectively.

Results
The incidence was 0.45 (95% confidence interval [CI], .38–.50) during pre-Delta, 2.80 (95% CI, 2.25–3.14) during Delta, and 11.2 (95% CI, 8.80–12.95) during Omicron, per 10 000 person-days. Factors associated with elevated odds of breakthrough included Hispanic ethnicity (vs non-Hispanic white, OR = 1.243; 95% CI, 1.073–1.441), larger household size (OR = 1.251 [95% CI, 1.048–1.494] for 3–5 vs 1 and OR = 1.726 [95% CI, 1.317–2.262] for more than 5 vs 1 person), rural versus urban living (OR = 1.383; 95% CI, 1.122–1.704), receiving Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson versus Moderna, and multiple comorbidities. Of the 1700 breakthrough infections, 1665 reported on severity; 112 (6.73%) were severe. Higher body mass index, Hispanic ethnicity, vaccine type, asthma, and hypertension predicted severe breakthroughs.

Conclusions
Breakthrough infection was 4–25 times more common during the Omicron-dominant wave versus earlier waves. Higher burden of severe breakthrough infections was identified in subgroups.
Functional analysis of metalloenzymes from human gut microbiota and their role in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Shinde Pratik Balwant , Mohite Shreya Vishwas , Yadav Asha , Singh Mukesh Kumar , Kedia Saurabh , Ahuja Vineet , Sharma Krishna Kant 
Published: February 2023

AbstractAimMetalloenzymes produced by gut microbiota play an essential role in various physiological processes, and maintains homeostasis of gastrointestinal tract. Our study includes functional analysis of microbial metalloenzymes using metagenomics and metatranscriptomics data from Inflammatory Bowel Disease Multiomics Database.Methods and resultsThe distance matrix calculated by using metalloenzymes data produced significant results for bacterial taxonomy, with higher variance compared to HMP analysis in both Western and Indian population. Differential gene expression analysis revealed altered expression of ulcerative colitis (UC)-associated enzymes, increased folds changes in Prevotella and Megamonas transcripts; whereas, low transcripts of Alistipes genera. Further, docking and simulation studies performed on screened UC-associated enzymes revealed changes in catalytic efficiency and ligand interacting residues.ConclusionThe β-diversity using microbes containing metalloenzymes suggests considering small group of specific genes or enzymes for understanding the diversity between UC and healthy individuals. The docking and differential gene expression analysis collectively indicate the probable role of metalloenzymes and few UC-associated enzymes in the severity of UC.
Factors Associated With Breast Cancer Screening Behaviors Among Women With Dense Breasts
Authors: Miller Matthew M , Ganti Ramapriya , Repich Kathy , Patrie James T , Anderson Roger T , Harvey Jennifer A 
Published: February 2023

AbstractObjectiveWe sought to identify patient factors associated with patient-reported screening behaviors in women with dense breasts.MethodsAn IRB-approved survey study of women with dense breasts presenting for annual screening mammography at an outpatient imaging center was previously conducted from March 2017 to February 2018. The survey included questions regarding mammographic screening frequency and recent participation in supplemental screening. These survey data were combined post hoc with clinical and demographic data and socioeconomic data imputed from census data. Logistic regression was used to identify patient factors associated with reported screening behaviors.ResultsSurveys were completed by 508 women (median age, 59.0 years; range, 31.0–86.0 years) with dense breasts. Multivariable analysis demonstrated an independent association of undergoing mammographic screening annually with a history of discussing breast density with a doctor (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 2.60; P = 0.019). Undergoing supplemental screening in the previous three years was independently associated with younger age (AOR, 1.59; P = 0.004), strong family history of breast cancer (AOR, 3.84; P = 0.027), higher perceived personal risk for breast cancer (AOR, 3.47; P = 0.004), and increased concern about radiation associated with screening examinations (AOR, 3.31; P = 0.006).ConclusionWomen with dense breasts who had discussed breast density with a doctor were more likely to report undergoing annual screening mammography, while younger women and women with a strong family history of breast cancer, higher perceived personal risk for breast cancer, or greater concern about radiation were more likely to report recently undergoing supplemental screening.
Breast Cancer Screening in Men
Authors: Gao Yiming , Heller Samantha L 
Published: February 2023

AbstractBreast cancer screening has been highly successful in women in reducing mortality through early detection. In comparison, clinical detection of breast cancer remains the norm in men, and delay in diagnosis is reflected by a persistent survival disparity compared to women despite advances in modern therapy. Male breast cancer presents an interesting dilemma. While mammography is highly sensitive and specific for male breast cancer, routine screening is not justified by the overall low disease incidence. Yet there has been interest in leveraging mammography in targeted screening of men with identifiable risk factors to allow early detection, and early data may support this approach. The purpose of this article is to explore the potential utility of targeted breast cancer screening in men by examining unique clinical and biologic characteristics of male breast cancers that may lend themselves to mammographic detection. We will also discuss available evidence in screening outcomes in men and summarize recent updates in risk management recommendations in Society guidelines.
A multi-strategy enhanced African vultures optimization algorithm for global optimization problems
Authors: Zheng Rong , Hussien Abdelazim G , Qaddoura Raneem , Jia Heming , Abualigah Laith , Wang Shuang , Saber Abeer 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
The African vultures optimization algorithm (AVOA) is a recently proposed metaheuristic inspired by the African vultures’ behaviors. Though the basic AVOA performs very well for most optimization problems, it still suffers from the shortcomings of slow convergence rate and local optimal stagnation when solving complex optimization tasks. Therefore, this study introduces a modified version named enhanced AVOA (EAVOA). The proposed EAVOA uses three different techniques namely representative vulture selection strategy, rotating flight strategy, and selecting accumulation mechanism, respectively, which are developed based on the basic AVOA. The representative vulture selection strategy strikes a good balance between global and local searches. The rotating flight strategy and selecting accumulation mechanism are utilized to improve the quality of the solution. The performance of EAVOA is validated on 23 classical benchmark functions with various types and dimensions and compared to those of nine other state-of-the-art methods according to numerical results and convergence curves. In addition, three real-world engineering design optimization problems are adopted to evaluate the practical applicability of EAVOA. Furthermore, EAVOA has been applied to classify multi-layer perception using XOR and cancer datasets. The experimental results clearly show that the EAVOA has superiority over other methods.
Magnetospheric accretion at the late phases of the pre-main-sequence evolution: the case of RZ Psc
Authors: Dmitriev D V , Ermolaeva T A , Grinin V P , Potravnov I S 
Published: February 2023

ABSTRACT
It has been shown that during the burst of accretion activity observed in UX Ori-type star RZ Psc in 2013, the accretion rate increased approximately by an order of magnitude. This means that the accretion process at the late stages of the pre-main sequence evolution is very unstable. Using the spectra obtained during this episode, we have studied the magnetospheric emission in the H α line. Models of magnetospheric accretion are calculated to obtain the parameters of the magnetosphere from this observation. In this work, we have taken into account the influence of the recombination delay effect during gas motion in the stellar magnetosphere. The accounting for this effect and the presence of the magnetospheric absorption in the IR Ca ii triplet lines and its absence in D Na i resonance lines allowed us to place a lower limit on the temperature in the magnetosphere at $\approx 10\, 000$ K, which significantly improved precision of our estimate of accretion rate. According to the best-fitting model, the logarithm of accretion rate is $\log \dot{M} = -10.1\pm 0.3$ ($\dot{M} \approx 7\times 10^{-11}\ \mathrm{M_\odot \, yr^{-1}}$) and the inclination angle of RZ Psc is 43° ± 3°. It is less than the inclination, typical for the UX Ori stars (about 70°), that explains the weak photometric variability of this star. Using the obtained accretion rate and magnetosphere radius, we estimate the strength of the dipole component of the magnetic field of RZ Psc ≈ 0.1 kGs.
Dust-scattering rings of GRB 221009A as seen by the Neil Gehrels Swift X-ray Observatory: can we count them all?
Authors: Vasilopoulos Georgios , Karavola Despina , Stathopoulos Stamatios I , Petropoulou Maria 
Published: February 2023

ABSTRACT
We present the first results for the dust-scattering rings of GRB 221009A, coined as the gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) of the century, as observed by the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. We perform analysis of both time resolved observations and stacked data. The former approach enable us to study the expansion of the most prominent rings, associate their origin with the prompt X-ray emission of the GRB and determine the location of the dust layers. The stacked radial profiles increase the signal-to-noise ratio of the data and allows detection of fainter and overlapping peaks in the angular profile. We find a total of 16 dust concentrations (with hints of even more) that span about 15kpc in depth and could be responsible for the highly structured X-ray angular profiles. By comparing the relative scattered fluxes of the five most prominent rings we show that the layer with the largest amount of dust is located at about 0.44 kpc away from us. We finally compare the location of the dust layers with results from experiments that study the 3D structure of our Galaxy via extinction or CO radio observations, and highlight the complementarity of dust X-ray tomography to these approaches.
Enhancing the Effectiveness of Public Sector Performance Regimes: A Proposed Causal Model for Aligning Governance Design with Performance Logics
Authors: Virani Altaf , van der Wal Zeger 
Published: February 2023

AbstractThe ability of public organizations to effectively leverage performance-enhancing interventions depends on their alignment with the institutional and motivational determinants of public sector performance and on how these are reflected in governance design choices. A mismatch between performance logics and governance design may potentially render interventions ineffective or even detrimental. In this article, we deconstruct the theoretical foundations of such a mismatch and propose an interactional causal model to examine how governance design can either effectuate or inhibit the institutional and individual motivational determinants affecting performance. In doing so, we evaluate the fitness of governance designs against public sector attributes and constraints and identify actionable managerial interventions for improving the fit. The article argues that alignment between governance design and the logics underpinning public sector performance regimes is critical for producing outcomes that are effective and consistent with the traits and value systems of the public sector.
Access to the memorandum of wishes by a beneficiary of a discretionary trust—an analysis of the law in New Zealand
Authors: McCrae Rebekah 
Published: February 2023

Abstract
This article considers whether the memorandum of wishes is trust information that should be disclosed to a beneficiary of a discretionary trust. The memorandum of wishes makes for interesting discussion as it is generally a non-binding document that can assist trustees when they exercise their discretionary power. To answer the question whether and when the memorandum of wishes should be made available to beneficiaries is not straightforward. The theory of why beneficiaries have the right to access trust information, case law that has unfolded on this issue, and the impacts of the Trust Act 2019 all play a role in making this assessment.
Exploring Health Care Disparities in Maternal-Child Simulation-Based Education
Authors: Díaz Desiree A. , Todd Andrew , Gilbert Gregory E. , Harris Martina , Kubiet Leslee , Jarocha Madison , Lee Michelle H. , Kurtek Anna , Jaromin Gabrielle M. , Newhouse Brandon , Magaña Christina L. 
Published: February 2023

Abstract

AIM
The purpose of this study was to explore student experiences within a health care disparity simulation, embedded in maternal-child content.

BACKGROUND
Health care disparities related to race and ethnicity in the maternal-child population are daunting among African American and Hispanic women.

METHOD
Participants completed the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified, a rapid-fire huddle questionnaire, and a demographic instrument. All students participated in structured debriefing.

RESULTS
Student responses (n = 69) demonstrated effectiveness in learning via this scenario.

CONCLUSION
The rapid-fire huddle and debriefing are important elements when health care disparities are introduced into nursing curricula.
The Impact of Therapy Dogs on Prelicensure Baccalaureate Nursing Student Test Anxiety
Authors: Walker Cristen 
Published: February 2023

Abstract

AIM
This study examined the impact of a therapy dog intervention on baccalaureate nursing student test anxiety.

BACKGROUND
Nursing student test anxiety may hinder academic performance and program outcomes. Considering this negative impact, it is essential to implement anxiety-reducing strategies. Interaction with therapy dogs is linked with test anxiety reduction; however, minimal studies have explored this topic.

METHOD
A pretest/posttest quasi-experimental design was used to examine the impact of a therapy dog intervention on test anxiety. Repeated measures included the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, heart rate, and cortisol levels. The multisite convenience sample included 91 junior-level prelicensure BSN students.

RESULTS
The intervention had a statistically significant impact on test anxiety reduction, noted by a decrease in State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scores, heart rate, and salivary cortisol levels (p = .00).

CONCLUSION
Therapy dog interactions are an effective strategy to reduce test anxiety. The findings from this study may assist educators to implement future interventions.
Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Support Services in Undergraduate Medical Training: A Multicenter, Qualitative Study
Authors: Ye Wen Qing Wendy , Rietze Bradley A. , McQueen Sydney , Zhang Kevin , Quilty Lena C. , Wickens Christine M. 
Published: February 2023

Purpose
Medical students report higher levels of burnout, anxiety, and depression compared with age-matched peers. These mental health challenges have been linked to reduced workplace productivity, empathy, and professionalism. Yet, students experiencing mental health issues often decide not to access mental health resources, citing limited time and concerns about confidentiality, stigma, and the cost of private therapy. This study aimed to provide a framework for understanding barriers medical students face regarding access to mental health resources.

Method
A constructivist grounded theory approach was employed, with 24 students from 6 medical schools in Ontario, Canada, participating in semistructured telephone interviews between May 2019 and February 2020. Participants were purposively sampled to capture a broad range of experiences, institutional contexts, and training levels. The authors then developed a framework to conceptualize the barriers that medical students face while accessing mental health resources.

Results
The information obtained from the interviews revealed that the barriers were both overt and covert. Overt barriers were primarily administrative challenges, including restrictive leave of absence policies and sick days, mandatory reporting of extended sick leave time during the residency selection process, time-restricted academic and clinical schedules, and difficulty in accessing mental health supports during distance education. Covert barriers to accessing mental health supports included a medical culture not conducive to mental health, felt stigma (i.e., fear of stigma and being labeled as weak), and the hidden curriculum (i.e., the unofficial or unintended rules and mannerisms propagated within medical education systems).

Conclusions
Better understanding the overt and covert barriers that medical students to face while accessing mental health supports may help guide and inspire new advocacy efforts to enhance medical student well-being.