bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Protection by vaccines and previous infection against the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Šmíd Martin , Berec Luděk , Májek Ondřej , Pavlík Tomáš , Jarkovský Jiří , Weiner Jakub , Přibylová Lenka , Barusová Tamara , Trnka Jan 
Published: February 2022

The Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus carries mutations, which enable it to evade immunity conferred by vaccines and previous infections. We used a Cox proportional hazards model and a logistic regression model on individual-level data on all laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections in the Czech Republic to estimate the relative risk of infection, hospitalization, including severe states, for Delta and Omicron variants, adjusting for sex, age, previous infection, vaccine type and vaccination status. A recent (<2 months) two-dose vaccination reached VE 43% (95% CI: 42-44) against infection by Omicron compared to 73% (95% CI: 72-74) against Delta. A recent booster increased VE to 56% (95% CI: 55-56) against Omicron infection compared to 90% (95% CI: 90-91) for Delta. The VE against Omicron hospitalization of a recent two-dose vaccination was 45% (95% CI: 29-57), with a recent booster 87% (95% CI: 84-88). The VE against the need for oxygen therapy due to Omicron was 57% (95% CI: 32-72) for recent vaccination, 90% (95% CI: 87-92) for a recent booster. Post-infection protection against Omicron hospitalization declined from 68% (95% CI: 68-69) at <6 months to 13% (95% CI: 11-14) at >6 months after a previous infection. A recent combination of a previous infection and vaccination was more protective then either alone with a slight benefit from a vaccination preceding an infection. Once infected, the OR for Omicron relative to Delta was 0.36 (95% CI: 0.34-0.38) for hospitalization, 0.24 (95% CI: 0.22-0.26) for oxygen therapy, and 0.24 (95% CI: 0.21-0.28) for ICU admission.Significance StatementA nation-wide study shows that the protection of a previous infection or vaccination is lower against Omicron compared to Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 and further declines with time. A booster dose or a combination of post-infection immunity with a vaccine conferred significant benefit to individuals in the Omicron wave in the Czech Republic, which further strengthens the importance of vaccination as an effective public health measure.
Prevalence of central obesity and its associated risk factors among adults in Southeast Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Tekalegn Yohannes , Solomon Damtew , Sahiledengle Biniyam , Assefa Tesfaye , Negash Wegene , Tahir Anwar , Regassa Tadele , Mamo Ayele , Gezahegn Habtamu , Bekele Kebebe , Zenbaba Demisu , Tasew Alelign , Desta Fikreab , Atilaw Daniel , Regassa Zegeye , Nugusu Fikadu , Engida Zinash Teferu , Tesfaye Degefa Gomora , Kene Chala , Nigussie Wondu Shiferaw , Chala Dereje , Abdi Adisu Gemechu , Beressa Girma , Woldeyohannes Demelash , Rogers Heather L. , Mwanri Lillian 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackgroundObesity and overweight are known are public health scourge challenges affecting populations across the world. These conditions have been associated with a wide range of chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and cancers. In Ethiopia, literature regarding the burden of central (abdominal) obesity is scarce. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing the prevalence and risk factors associated with central obesity among adults in Ethiopia.MethodsFrom May to July 2021, a community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 694 adults aged ≥18 years in administrative towns of Bale zone, Southeast Ethiopia. Multi-stage sampling followed by systematic random sampling was employed to identify study participants. Waist and hip circumferences were measured using standard protocols. The World Health Organization STEPS wise tool was used to assess risk factors associated with central obesity. Bi-variable and multi-variable binary logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with central obesity. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported to estimate the strength of associations.ResultsThe overall prevalence of central obesity using waist circumference was 39.01% (15.44% for men and 53.12% for women). Multi-variable binary logistic regression analysis revealed that female sex (AOR=12.93, 95% CI: 6.74-24.79), Age groups: 30-39 years old (AOR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.59-4.94), 40-49 years (AOR=7.66, 95% CI: 3.87-15.15), 50-59 years (AOR=4.65, 95% CI: 2.19-9.89), ≥60 years (AOR=12.67, 95% CI: 5.46-29.39), occupational status like: housewives (AOR=5.21, 95% CI: 1.85-14.62), self-employed workers (AOR=4.63, 95% CI: 1.62-13.24), government/private/non-government employees (AOR=4.68, 95% CI: 1.47-14.88) and skipping breakfast (AOR=0.46, 95% CI: 0.23-0.9) were significantly associated with central obesity.ConclusionsAbdominal obesity has become an epidemic in towns of southeast Ethiopia, and the prevalence is higher among women. Female sex, older age group, being employed, not skipping breakfast were significantly associated with central obesity.
Saliva metabolome alterations after acute stress
Authors: Morgan Liat , Dupont Birkler Rune Isak , Shaham-Niv Shira , Dong Yonghui , Wachsman Tal , Carmi Lior , Yakobson Boris , Adler-Abramovich Lihi , Cohen Hagit , Zohar Joseph , Bateson Melissa , Gazit Ehud 
Published: February 2022

AbstractMajor stress has systemic effects on the body that can have adverse consequences for physical and mental health. However, the molecular basis of these damaging effects remains incompletely understood. Here we use a longitudinal approach to characterise the acute systemic impact of major psychological stress in a pig model. We perform untargeted metabolomics on non-invasively-obtained saliva samples from pigs before and 24-hours after transfer to the novel physical and social environment of a slaughterhouse. The main molecular changes occurring include decreases in amino acids, B-vitamins, and amino acid-derived metabolites synthesized in B-vitamin-dependent reactions, as well as yet-unidentified metabolite features. Decreased levels of several of the identified metabolites are implicated in the pathology of human psychological disorders and neurodegenerative disease, suggesting a possible neuroprotective function. Our results provide a fingerprint of the acute effect of psychological stress on the metabolome and suggest candidate biomarkers with potential roles in stress-related disorders.One Sentence SummaryIdentification of metabolites decreased under acute psychological stress may lead to future discoveries for the prevention and treatment of stress-related disorders.
Screening and Identification of Azo Dye Decolourizers from Mangrove Rhizospheric soil
Authors: Modi Akhilesh , Singh Sunita , Patki Jyoti , Padmadas Naveen 
Published: February 2022

AbstractRemoval of synthetic textile dye poses a challenge to the textile industry and a threat to environment flora and fauna. These dyes are marginally degradable and recalcitrant, hence alternatives to physical and chemical techniques like various bioremediation studies involving plants, plant roots, single or consortium of microbes have been used as environment friendly methods for the removal of textile dye. In the present study potent bacteria for dye decolourization were isolated from rhizospheric soil collected from Kamothe, Navi Mumbai, India. Of the 20 isolates obtained after enrichment, seven isolates were used for further screening of efficient decolourization ability in MBM media containing 10% glucose, 2.5 % trace metal solution and 0.1% of MO dye concentration. Physiological parameters to optimize the decolourization of dye at optimum pH, temperature and incubation time was studied for all the seven isolates. UV-vis and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy were used to investigate dye decolorization. The seven isolates were characterized morphologically, biochemically, and molecular identification of these strains were performed by 16S rRNA sequence analysis. The isolates were identified asBacillus paramycoides, Pseudomonas taiwanensis, Citrobacter murliniae, Acinetobacter pitti, Exiguobacterium acetylicum, Psychrobacter celer, andAeromonas taiwanensis. Out of theseAeromonas taiwanensishas shown exceptional capacity by 100% decolorization of azo dye in minimum time.1.Graphical AbstractHighlights of the studyCollection of soil samples from rhizospheric and non-rhizospheric region of the mangroves plant.Enrichment of soil sample in media containing azo dye for dye decolourization.Screening and isolation of potential dye decolourizers.Optimize the condition for dye decolourization.FTIR analysis and application based studies.Identification of microbes using 16SrRNA.
Brain structure, phenotypic and genetic correlates of reading abilities
Authors: Carrión-Castillo Amaia , Paz-Alonso Pedro M. , Carreiras Manuel 
Published: February 2022

AbstractReading is an evolutionary new development that recruits and tunes brain circuitry connecting visual- and language-processing regions. We investigated the structural correlates of reading and whether genetics influence brain-reading associations. First, we identified left hemisphere cortical surface area (CSA) and cortical thickness (CT) correlates of reading in the large ABCD dataset (N=9,013) of 9-to-10-year-olds. Next, the heritability of cognitive and brain measures of interest was examined through complementary approaches. Last, shared genetic effects between reading, reading-related cognitive traits and reading-associated brain measures were examined by computing genetic correlations and polygenic score analyses, and through mediation analyses. Our results support that morphometric brain measures are related to reading abilities, and that the total left CSA in general, and left superior temporal gyrus CSA in particular, contribute to reading partially through genetic factors.
A Pan-Pneumovirus vaccine based on immunodominant epitopes of the fusion protein
Authors: Huang Jiachen , Miller Rose , Mousa Jarrod 
Published: February 2022

AbstractRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) are two leading causes of severe respiratory infections in children, the elderly, and immunocompromised patients. The fusion (F) protein is the major target of neutralizing antibodies. Recent developments in stabilizing the pre-fusion conformation of the F proteins, and identifying immunodominant epitopes that elicit potent neutralizing antibodies have led to testing of numerous pre-fusion RSV F-based vaccines in clinical trials. We designed and tested the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of a chimeric fusion protein that contains immunodominant epitopes of RSV F and hMPV F (RHMS-1). RHMS-1 has several advantages over vaccination with pre-fusion RSV F or hMPV F, including a focus on recalling B cells to the most important protective epitopes and the ability to induce protection against two viruses with a single antigen. RHMS-1 was generated as a trimeric recombinant protein, and negative-stain EM analysis demonstrated the protein resembles the pre-fusion conformation. Probing of RHMS-1 antigenicity using a panel of RSV and hMPV F-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) revealed the protein retains features of both viruses, including the pre-fusion site Ø epitope of RSV F. BALB/c mice immunized with RHMS-1 had serum binding and neutralizing antibodies to both viruses. RHMS-1 vaccinated mice challenged with RSV or hMPV had undetectable virus in lung homogenates for both viruses, in contrast to RSV F or hMPV F vaccinated mice, which had detectable virus for hMPV and RSV, respectively. Overall, this study demonstrates protection against two viruses with a single antigen and supports further testing of RHMS-1 in additional pre-clinical animal models.SignificanceRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) are two Pneumoviruses that cause substantial respiratory tract infections in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised adults. Yet vaccines against either of them are still unavailable. Multiple promising vaccine designs based on the fusion proteins of RSV and hMPV have been tested, but none of them can induce cross-protective antibody responses despite their similar structures and closely related amino acid sequence identity. Here, we report a vaccine candidate, RHMS-1, which combines the immunodominant epitopes of the RSV and hMPV fusion proteins into a single antigen. RHMS-1 maintains the immunological features of both RSV F and hMPV F, which can be recognized by epitope-specific mAbs and human B cells pre-exposed to RSV or hMPV. Furthermore, this is the first immunogen that induced potent cross-neutralizing antibodies and protected mice from RSV and hMPV challenge. Our results suggest RHMS-1 is a promising Pan-Pneumovirus vaccine.
TraB is a novel component of the ER-Mitochondria contact site (EMCS) with dual roles in ER-Mitochondrial tethering and mitophagy
Authors: Li Chengyang , Duckney Patrick , Zhang Tong , Fu Yanshu , Li Xin , Kroon Johan , De Jaeger Geert , Cheng Yunjiang , Hussey Patrick J , Wang Pengwei 
Published: February 2022

AbstractER-mitochondria contact sites (EMCSs) are important for mitochondrial function. Here, we have identified a novel eukaryotic EMCS complex, comprising a family of uncharacterised mitochondrial outer-membrane proteins, TraB1 and the ER protein, VAP27-1. In Arabidopsis, there are two TraB1 isoforms and thetrab1a/trab1bdouble mutant exhibits abnormal mitochondrial morphology, strong starch accumulation and impaired energy metabolism, indicating that these proteins are essential for normal mitochondrial function. Moreover, TraB1 proteins also interact with ATG8 in order to regulate mitochondrial degradation (mitophagy). The turnover of depolarised mitochondria is significantly reduced in bothtrab1a/band VAP27 mutants (vap27-1/3/4/6)under mitochondrial stress conditions, with an increased population of dysfunctional mitochondria present in the cytoplasm. Consequently, plant recovery after stress is significantly perturbed. A similar phenotype is found in both autophagy mutants (atg5andatg7), suggesting that TraB1 regulated mitophagy and ER-mitochondrial tethering are two closely related processes, necessary for normal mitochondrial function. Taken together, we ascribe a dual role to TraB1 which is a novel component of the EMCS complex in eukaryotes, regulating both tethering of the mitochondria to the ER and mitophagy.
Evaluating a mindfulness-based group intervention for adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Power Niall , Rawlings Gregg H. , Bennett Claire 
Published: February 2022

Purpose
There is growing evidence examining mindfulness-based interventions (MI) for people with intellectual disabilities (IDs). As discussed in this paper, MI may be particularly suited for people with ID given high rates of difficulties in identifying and regulating emotions and as this approach may rely less on cognitive ability compared to other therapies. This study aims to assess the acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of a six-session MI group [the Coping Well Group (CWG)] delivered within routine clinical practice.

Design/methodology/approach
Six separate cohorts (n = 25) of adults with ID attended CWG. Quantitative data were collected from service users, including a pre- and post-quality of life (QoL) measure and qualitative data from group facilitators.

Findings
Roughly one-half (53%) of service users invited to the group attended at least one session, with low levels of dropout observed among group attendees. A significant improvement in QoL was reported demonstrating a small effect (d = 0.46, p = 0.022) after attending the group. Most service users (72%) were referred to the CWG for help managing difficult emotions. One-half (44%) of attendees required individual therapy after attending the group. Limitations of the evaluation and potential future research are discussed.

Originality/value
The current evaluation contributes a practice-based service evaluation of an MI group for people with ID and mental health difficulties to the currently limited evidence base. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies to investigate the impact of group psychological interventions collecting data across cohorts and assessing QoL, a more general measure of well-being than has been used previously.
Pluchea indica tea-leaf extracts exert anti-cancer activity by inducing ROS-mediated cytotoxicity on breast and cervical cancer cells
Authors: Iawsipo Panata , Poonbud Rotsukon , Somtragool Natcha , Mutapat Photsathorn , Meejom Anan 
Published: February 2022

PurposeThe study aimed to disclose the anti-cancer activity of Pluchea indica tea leaves by evaluating the cytotoxicity on breast and cervical cancer cells, compared with non-cancer cells.Design/methodology/approachTwo P. indica extracts were prepared using two solvents, namely hot water (PA) and ethanol (PE). MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) and clonogenic assays were applied to determine cytotoxic effect of both extracts toward cancer cells from human breast (MDA-MB-231 and MCF7) and cervix (SiHa, HeLa and C-33A) and also non-cancer Vero cells. Dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA)-staining assay was used to quantify the intracellular level of the reactive oxygen species (ROS). Correlation between the quantity of compounds present and the cytotoxicity of the extracts was analyzed by Pearson's method and a possible class of bioactive compounds was proposed based on the highest correlation coefficient (r).FindingsSignificant reduction in cell viability and proliferation capability was observed in all cancer cells after treatment with either PA or PE extract albeit PE was more effective. Lower toxicity was detected in Vero cells, indicating the selectivity and safety of extracts. The intracellular ROS level was augmented in treated cancer cells which were inversely correlated to cell viability, suggesting the cancer toxicity was likely induced by intracellular oxidative stress. As flavonoids were found abundantly in the extracts and flavonoids' content was the most related to the activity (r = 0.815), it was hypothesized that the flavonoids might play crucial roles in cancer cytotoxicity.Originality/valueP. indica tea-leaf extracts can be a good source of promising anti-cancer agents with reduced side effects for breast and cervical cancer treatment.
Production of antimicrobial, natural, and reusable material for stitching eco-friendly, extra-protective face masks
Authors: Sadaf Shama , Hassan Komal , Saeed Ayesha , Ahmad Zeeshan , Abdus Samad Hodaa Usama 
Published: February 2022

PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic has popularized wearing face masks for personal protection. However, the protection afforded by a mask is decreased if an individual accidently touches the outer surface of the mask and then touches other parts of their face. To overcome this problem, antimicrobial masks have become commercially available. However, many are disposable and/or made from synthetic antimicrobial agents which have a negative impact on the environment. The purpose of this study was to create material for stitching antimicrobial masks that are reusable and natural.Design/methodology/approachThe authors developed natural antimicrobial finishes from Azadirachata indica, Butea monosperma and Litchi chinensis leaves. The authors used biodegradable polyurethane binder and pad-dry-cure method to apply them on 100% cotton fabric. The authors used Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to confirm the application and ASTM E2149 to assess the efficacy and wash-resistance of the finish.FindingsFabric treated with leaves of A. indica, B. monosperma and L. chinensis showed 80%, 100 and 100% antimicrobial activity, respectively. All fabrics were washed 25 times in home laundry cycles and maintained 100% of their antimicrobial effect.Originality/valueThese findings highlight that B. monosperma and L. chinensis finishes on cotton fabric can be a used as a material for stitching antimicrobial, natural and reusable masks that provide more protection than traditional masks but do not pose the environmental concerns of disposable masks or synthetic finishes. This study can be furthered by performing more laundry cycles to determine if the finishes remain 100% effective beyond 25 cycles.
Manager and vendor perceptions of farmers’ markets’ impacts on communities: evidence from Michigan
Authors: Warsaw Phillip , Wentworth Chelsea , Lewis Arena , Isaacs Krista , Traore Abou 
Published: February 2022

PurposeThe purposes of this paper are to: (1) characterize farmers’ market manager and vendor perceptions of the economic, social and environmental impact markets have on their local communities; and (2) how those impacts are tracked and communicated to market actors and the local community.Design/methodology/approachTwenty-nine semistructured interviews were conducted with market managers and vendors across four farmers’ markets within Michigan. The interviews were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis.FindingsManagers and vendors report economic and social and environmental benefits associated with the presence of a farmers' market, consistent with the existing literature. Metrics are tracked to estimate market impact, particularly economic and social benefits. Market managers reported uncertainty about how best to use data internally, and there are gaps in communicating market impacts with vendors. Most data are used for external reporting, to statewide organizations or for grant evaluation. Respondents reported data fatigue and unwillingness among vendors to share personal business information due to concerns about privacy relative to the perceived benefits of sharing data.Practical implicationsAdditional resources are needed for markets, specifically market managers, to better utilize the data they collect for internal versus external purposes.Originality/valueMetric collection and reporting are a nascent development among markets. Understanding how market actors are utilizing these tools will provide guidance to improve future efforts at impact measurement.
The changing face of the automotive robotics industry
Authors: Bogue Robert 
Published: February 2022

Purpose
This study aims to provide an insight into recent technological developments and applications that are driving growth and change in the automotive robotics sector.

Design/methodology/approach
Following a short introduction which provides a commercial perspective, this study discusses the role of collaborative robots and provides examples of applications. It then considers robotic three-dimensional (3D) printing and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled robots. This is followed by a discussion of the impact of the burgeoning electric vehicle sector. Finally, brief conclusions are drawn.

Findings
This study shows that the automotive robotics sector is growing more rapidly than vehicle production volumes due to factors which include the move to vehicle electrification, the growing use of cobots, 3D printing, which is moving from specialist and low volume to high volume component production, and the advent of AI-enabled robots.

Originality/value
This study provides details of the factors driving the automotive robotics market by discussing a selection of emerging applications and developments.