bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food availability and food selectivity of Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill Ocyceros gingalensis Shaw, 1811 in Mihintale Sanctuary, Sri Lanka
Authors: Iresha Wijerathne  , Panduwawala Pavithra , Wickramasinghe Sriyani
Published: January 2023

This study was focused on explaining food selectivity in endemic Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill Ocyceros gingalensis to fill the gaps in the behavioral ecology of this endemic species. The study was conducted within Mihintale Sanctuary for five months from December 2015 to April 2016. Ringed hornbills were used to monitor the number of food items that were consumed from within the Food Abundance Index (FAI) and quantify the distribution and availability of resources to examine the potential of fruit selectivity. Thirteen fruiting plant families were recorded as preferred food. Food consumption and FAI values are not significantly correlated (r = 0.60, p = 0.285). The dietary composition increased in the breeding season due to a higher requirement for nutrients by the nestlings. Nutrient analysis results revealed that moisture (H = 7.50, p = 0.006), fiber (H = 6.53, p = 0.011), and ash (H = 6.07, p = 0.013) components were significant between eaten and non-eaten fruits. The amount of all the nutrients available in the fruits as well as FAI does not directly affect the fruit selectivity of the Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill in the Mihintale Sanctuary. This fruit selection and the seed dispersal ability of the Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill contributes to maintaining the ecosystem diversity and forest regeneration, especially in the Dry Zone in Sri Lanka.
Incidence of Clinostomum complanatum (Trematoda: Clinostomidae) in Trichogaster fasciata (Actinopterygii: Osphronemidae), the first report from Deepor Beel, Assam, India
Authors: Bobita Bordoloi  , Arup Kumar Hazarika
Published: January 2023

Fish constitute a major component of diet for the people of northeastern India and one of the main food items for most people in Assam. But fishes are facing serious risks due to parasitic infestations which deteriorate the food value and also leads to fish mortality. The present study aims to investigate the occurrence of helminth parasites in some selected fishes of the species Mystus tengara, Channa punctata, and Trichogaster fasciata collected from Deepor Beel, Guwahati, Assam. Trematode parasite species have been recorded from Trichogaster fasciata. The recovered trematode is Clinostomum complanatum belonging to the family Clinostomatidae. The present study incorporates the morphological, morphometric, and scanning electron microscopy studies of the prevailing parasite. This study is the first report on the occurrence of helminth parasites in the edible freshwater fishes collected from Deepor Beel.
Installation of hot boxes for conservation in the last nursery roost of Greater Horseshoe Bats Rhinolophus ferrumequinum in Austria
Authors: Zangl Lukas , Gutstein Alexander , Paill Wolfgang , Weiss Edmund , Sackl Peter
Published: January 2023

The Greater Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum has experienced drastic population declines in Austria over the last decades. Several central European countries harbor only residual isolated populations, often at the brink of extinction. Consequently, conservation efforts are undertaken to improve roosting, hibernation, and foraging conditions. One of these measures, although almost unheard of in international literature, is the installation of hot boxes in maternity roosts to improve thermal conditions during gestation and development of the young and provide roosting locations covering a range of different temperature regimes. Here, we report the first installation of hot boxes as a conservation effort for bats in Austria. Through this measure, conditions in the attic of Schloss Eggenberg in Graz, the last known maternity roost of Greater Horseshoe Bats in Austria, should be maintained and hopefully even improved to conserve this last Austrian breeding population in the long run.
Flowering and fruiting of Tape Seagrass Enhalus acoroides (L.f.) Royle from the Andaman Islands: observations from inflorescence buds to dehiscent fruits
Authors: Gole Swapnali , Sivakumar Kuppusamy  , Das Himansu , Johnson Jeyaraj Antony
Published: January 2023

Seagrass phenophases are crucial in understanding their reproductive biology but are seldom documented. We studied flowering and fruiting phenophases of Enhalus acoroides from a mixed-species intertidal seagrass meadow in Ritchie’s archipelago, Andaman Islands, India. The estimated mean densities of pistillate and staminate flowers were 16.0 ± 12.0/ m2 and 12.7 ± 7.3/ m2, respectively. We observed the bloom of free-floating male flowers (961.7 ± 360.4/ m2) during the spring low tides (at mean sea surface temperature ~30°C). Seagrass cover, shoot density, and canopy height of E. acoroides, along with flowering densities, showed a zonal variation within the sampled meadow. We report the first-time observations of several phenophases of E. acoroides, such as female inflorescence buds, male inflorescence, a bloom of released male flowers, pollination, and fertilized flowers from the Indian waters. We also report the prevailing threats to seagrass meadows, such as meadow scarring done by boat anchorage in the Andaman Islands.
Capuchins, Missionaries, and Slave Trading in Precolonial Kongo-Angola, West Central Africa (17th Century)
Authors: Walden Justine
Published: January 2023

In the second half of the seventeenth century, Italian Capuchin missionaries who traveled to West Central Africa both colluded in and critiqued Portuguese slave trading practices. Drawing from their experience on slave galleys in the Mediterranean and their medieval Franciscan heritage, Capuchins brought earlier concepts governing enslavement to bear in Central Africa. Examining Capuchin interventions in exchanges of goods and slaves, their declamations against Portuguese warmongering, their efforts to free unjustly enslaved Africans, and the ways in which they sought to prohibit slave sales to Protestants, this article positions this group of religious agents as important mediators of struggles for empire between the Portuguese, Dutch, British, French, and Spanish in precolonial coastal Africa and as protagonists in their own right. On the basis of the Capuchins’ critique of economic gain and the Kongolese embrace of Catholicism, Capuchins crafted a counter discourse that, if only partially successful, challenged emerging models of Atlantic enslavement.
Introduction: Maritime Missions
Authors: Gibbs Jenna M. , Juterczenka Sünne
Published: January 2023

The global mission mandate, present in the New Testament and pre-modern Christianity, took on new force in the early modern period. Missionaries promoted the globalization of Christianity, and in so doing contributed to the broadening of intellectual horizons across the world. Often traveling by sea, they were among the first to cover the vast distances that the maritime empires of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries would subsequently span. This special issue explores the connections between three dynamic fields of research: missions, the history of knowledge, and maritime history. Taking a global and trans-denominational perspective, we seek to shed new light on some of the encounters, networks, exchanges, and transfers facilitated by maritime missions and the interactions of culturally and religiously diverse protagonists during the long eighteenth century.
Paving the Way for Dutch Colonial Missions: Jacobus Elisa Johannes Capitein (c. 1717–1747) and His Defense of Slavery in Context
Authors: Griesel Jake
Published: January 2023

The ex-slave-turned-missionary Jacobus Capitein (c. 1717–1747) was one of the first Africans to study at a European university and the first to be ordained as a Protestant minister. Capitein is particularly known for his 1742 Leiden University dissertation, which defended slavery as compatible with Christian liberty. This has given rise to the question of whether Capitein should be considered an “Uncle Tom” who merely wrote what his benefactors wanted to hear.

This study contends that when his dissertation is considered in its historical- intellectual context, a more nuanced picture of Capitein emerges. By considering Capitein’s actual arguments, the missional agenda behind his dissertation, and the overwhelming corroboration afforded to his views by early modern Dutch theological and juridical sources, it argues that Capitein was an intellectual in his own right, who through his dissertation sought to pave the way for his return to Africa as a missionary.
Field Test Study and Micro-Analysis Steel Fiber Precast Concrete Pavement (SFPCP)
Authors: Wang Zi-Jian , Zhang Xin , Fan Han-Xiu , Luo Wen-Yu , Zhang Bin , Wu Li-Ming
Published: January 2023

To study the mechanical properties of steel fiber precast concrete pavement (SFPCP) the mechanical response tests of steel fiber precast concrete plate (SFPCP) under two different static loads were carried out, and the failure characteristics of SFPCP was analyzed by using micromorphology.
The test results showed that: (1) the strain of SFPCP is slightly affected by wheel position but is significantly affected by load size. When the two different static loads are applied in the middle and upper right of SFPCP, both the tensile strain and compressive strain of the steel bar reach
the maximum value at 1 s. When the load is applied on the SFPCP, the upper steel bar of the SFPCP is a in compressive state, and the lower steel bar and test points away from the wheel position are in a tensile state. (2) The maximum strain value of the SFPCP occurs at 1 s when different loads
are applied at the same location. When the load is applied in the middle of SFPCP, the maximum strain value does not exceed 25 με. When the load is applied in the upper right part of SFPCP, the maximum strain value does not exceed 65 με. (3) The addition of steel
fiber in the SFPCP reduces the fluidity of concrete and enhances the bonding of steel fiber-mortar interface. The matrix load is gradually transferred to the steel fiber through the steel fiber-mortar transition zone. The research results provide a guidance for the future production and construction
of SFPCP.
Preparation of Silk Fibroin/Chitosan/Nano-Hydroxyapatite and Its Effect on the Repair of Cartilage Damage in Rats
Authors: Zhao Dongfang , Xing Shuqin , Qi Jiao , Wei Zhiqiang , Huang Jianghai , Sun Jigao , Wen Xinzhu , Wang Yafei
Published: January 2023

This study was aimed to prepare a silk fibroin (SF)/chitosan (CS)/nano-Hydroxyapatite (n-HAp) composite scaffold for repair of cartilage damage. A four-layer bionic scaffold SF/CS/n-HAp was constructed by cryogenic freezing and forming. Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP) was used as a cross-linking
agent to post-process the scaffold to improve the mechanical strength of the scaffold. The various materials prepared were characterized. The SF/CS/n-HAp scaffold prepared in this study was cream-colored cylindrical and elastic. It can show variability after external force was applied, and
can be restored to its original appearance after elimination of the external force. The diameter of the scaffold was 5 cm, and the total thickness was about 1 cm. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results showed that the surface of the scaffold material was smooth, the pore size changed
gradually, and the connectivity among the holes was good. The pore size distribution of the entire scaffold material was between 100 μm∼300 μm, and the pore size range was suitable for the adhesion, expansion, and migration of chondrocytes and osteoblasts. The mechanical
performance test results showed that the composite scaffold had a compression modulus of 706 kPa, which can meet the mechanical performance requirements for repair of smaller articular cartilage damage. In addition, the porosity of each layer of the scaffold was more than 91%, which was conducive
to the adhesion of cells on the surface of the material. The cell experiment results revealed that the composite scaffold material was beneficial to the growth and proliferation of cells. Under osteogenic and chondrogenic induction culture, bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) can differentiate
in the direction of osteogenesis and cartilage. The results of animal experiments revealed that the SF/CS/n-HAp material group showed better effect than the blank control group in repairing rat cartilage defects, and the Wayne score and O’Driscoll score were also significantly higher
than the blank control group. This suggested that the biomimetic scaffold SF/CS/n-HAp prepared in this study showed good physical properties and biocompatibility, and had certain prospects in the application of repairing cartilage damage.
Long-term Anticoagulation with Apixaban in Patients with Cerebral Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Bharath Suman Preet , Arshad Hasnain , Song Yong-Bum , Kirmani Jawad F.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a life-threatening neurological condition. There is limited evidence for the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) for long-term anticoagulation in this patient population. We report a case series of patients treated with apixaban and their clinical course. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. Patients diagnosed with CVT in a defined time period at our institution were screened for long-term anticoagulation and patients who were treated with apixaban were included in this study. Results: A total of nine patients were included in this study. The mean age was 36 years and 56% of the patients included were women. All received initial anticoagulation with unfractionated heparin (UFH) infusion for at least twenty-four hours, except for one patient who had anti-thrombin III deficiency and was treated with argatroban infusion. For long-term anticoagulation, 56% of patients received apixaban 10 mg twice daily for the first five to seven days followed by 5 mg twice daily, while the remaining 44% were transitioned from IV anticoagulation to apixaban 5 mg twice daily. There were no adverse events reported, except for one patient who developed anemia after 7 months of treatment and required a blood transfusion. Complete recanalization was achieved in 78% while 22% had partial recanalization. Follow-up time ranged from six to twenty-three months. Conclusion: The use of apixaban for long-term anticoagulation in CVT resulted in recanalization in all of the patients in this case series without any major side effects. This case series adds to the emerging studies demonstrating the utility of apixaban for CVT.
On the definition of distinct mineral species: A critique of current IMA–CNMNC procedures
Authors: Hawthorne Frank C.
Published: January 2023

The criteria for the definition of a new mineral species currently used by the Commission on New Minerals Nomenclature and Classification (CNMNC) of the International Mineralogical Association are critically examined. In particular, the rule of the dominant constituent can violate the laws of conservation of electric charge. A series of additional rules: (1) valency-imposed double site-occupancy; (2) the dominant-valency rule; and (3) the site-total-charge approach, have been developed in an attempt to correct this error. However, none of these rules can overcome the fundamental flaw introduced by the rule of the dominant constituent, and the chemical formulae resulting from application of these rules can violate the requirements of an end-member, particularly that of electroneutrality. As a result, the IMA–CNMNC rules cannot derive end-member formulae for some groups of minerals, giving rise to many ad hoc decisions in defining distinct mineral species.
Decreased plasma levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor correlate with right heart congestion in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Schäfer Katharina , Tello Khodr , Pak Oleg , Richter Manuel , Gierhardt Mareike , Kwapiszewska Grazyna , Veith Christine , Fink Ludger , Gall Henning , Hecker Matthias , Kojonazarov Baktybek , Kraut Simone , Lo Kevin , Wilhelm Jochen , Grimminger Friedrich , Seeger Werner , Schermuly Ralph T. , Ghofrani Hossein A. , Zahner Daniel , Gerstberger Rüdiger , Weissmann Norbert , Sydykov Akylbek , Sommer Natascha
Published: January 2023

Background

The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may promote development of pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular (RV) failure. However, BDNF plasma levels were decreased in patients with left ventricular (LV) failure. Therefore, we investigated BDNF plasma levels in pulmonary hypertension patients and the role of BDNF in mouse models of pulmonary hypertension and isolated RV failure.

Methods

BDNF plasma levels were correlated to pulmonary hypertension in two patient cohorts, including either post- and pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension patients (first cohort) or only pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension patients (second cohort). In the second cohort, RV dimensions and load-independent function were determined by imaging and pressure–volume catheter measurements, respectively. For induction of isolated RV pressure overload, heterozygousBdnfknockout (Bdnf+/−) mice were subjected to pulmonary arterial banding (PAB). For induction of pulmonary hypertension, mice with inducible knockout of BDNF in smooth muscle cells (Bdnf/Smmhcknockout) were exposed to chronic hypoxia.

Results

Plasma BDNF levels were decreased in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Following adjustment for covariables, BDNF levels negatively correlated in both cohorts with central venous pressure. In the second cohort, BDNF levels additionally negatively correlated with RV dilatation. In animal models, BDNF downregulation attenuated RV dilatation inBdnf+/−mice after PAB or hypoxicBdnf/Smmhcknockout mice, although they developed pulmonary hypertension to a similar extent.

Conclusions

Similar to LV failure, circulating levels of BDNF were decreased in pulmonary hypertension patients, and low BDNF levels were associated with right heart congestion. Decreased BDNF levels did not worsen RV dilatation in animal models, and thus, may be the consequence, but not the cause of RV dilatation.
Cardiovascular disease-linked plasma proteins are mainly associated with lung volume
Authors: Rydell Andreas , Nerpin Elisabet , Zhou XingWu , Lind Lars , Lindberg Eva , Theorell Haglöw Jenny , Fall Tove , Janson Christer , Lisspers Karin , Elmståhl Sölve , Zaigham Suneela , Melander Olle , Nilsson Peter M. , Ärnlöv Johan , Malinovschi Andrei
Published: January 2023

Background

Epidemiological studies have shown that impaired lung function is common and associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Increased levels of several inflammatory and cardiovascular disease-related plasma proteins have been associated with impaired lung function. The aim was to study the association between plasma proteomics and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and FEV1/FVC ratio.

Methods

We used a discovery and replication approach in two community-based cohorts, EpiHealth and the Malmö Offspring Study (total n=2874), to cross-sectionally study 242 cardiovascular disease- and metabolism-linked proteins in relation to FEV1, FVC (both % predicted) and FEV1/FVC ratio. A false discovery rate of 5% was used as the significance threshold in the discovery cohort.

Results

Plasma fatty acid-binding protein 4, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, interleukin-6 and leptin were negatively associated with FEV1and paraoxonase 3 was positively associated therewith. Fatty acid-binding protein 4, fibroblast growth factor 21, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, interleukin-6 and leptin were negatively associated with FVC and agouti-related protein, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 2, paraoxonase 3 and receptor for advanced glycation end products were positively associated therewith. No proteins were associated with FEV1/FVC ratio. A sensitivity analysis in EpiHealth revealed only minor changes after excluding individuals with known cardiovascular disease, diabetes or obesity.

Conclusions

Five proteins were associated with both FEV1and FVC. Four proteins associated with only FVC and none with FEV1/FVC ratio, suggesting associations mainly through lung volume, not airway obstruction. However, additional studies are needed to investigate underlying mechanisms for these findings.
Functional imaging in asthma and COPD: design of the NOVELTY ADPro substudy
Authors: Marshall Helen , Wild Jim M. , Smith Laurie J. , Hardaker Latife , Fihn-Wikander Titti , Müllerová Hana , Hughes Rod
Published: January 2023

The NOVEL observational longiTudinal studY (NOVELTY; ClinicalTrials.gov identifierNCT02760329) is a global, prospective, observational study of ∼12 000 patients with a diagnosis of asthma and/or COPD. Here, we describe the design of the Advanced Diagnostic Profiling (ADPro) substudy of NOVELTY being conducted in a subset of ∼180 patients recruited from two primary care sites in York, UK. ADPro is employing a combination of novel functional imaging and physiological and metabolic modalities to explore structural and functional changes in the lungs, and their association with different phenotypes and endotypes.

Patients participating in the ADPro substudy will attend two visits at the University of Sheffield, UK, 12±2 months apart, at which they will undergo imaging and physiological lung function testing. The primary end-points are the distributions of whole lung functional and morphological measurements assessed with xenon-129 magnetic resonance imaging, including ventilation, gas transfer and airway microstructural indices. Physiological assessments of pulmonary function include spirometry, bronchodilator reversibility, static lung volumesviabody plethysmography, transfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide, multiple-breath nitrogen washout and airway oscillometry. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide will be measured as a marker of type-2 airways inflammation.

Regional and global assessment of lung function using these techniques will enable more precise phenotyping of patients with physician-assigned asthma and/or COPD. These techniques will be assessed for their sensitivity to markers of early disease progression.
Management of nontuberculous mycobacteria in lung transplant cases: an international Delphi study
Authors: Asif Huda , Rahaghi Franck F. , Ohsumi Akihiro , Philley Julie , Emtiazjoo Amir , Hirama Takashi , Baker Arthur W. , Shu Chin-Chung , Silveira Fernanda , Poulin Vincent , Rizzuto Pete , Nagao Miki , Burgel Pierre-Régis , Hays Steve , Aksamit Timothy , Kawasaki Takeshi , Dela Cruz Charles , Aliberti Stefano , Nakajima Takahiro , Ruoss Stephen , Marras Theodore K. , Snell Gregory I. , Winthrop Kevin , Mirsaeidi Mehdi
Published: January 2023

Rationale

Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) diseases are difficult-to-treat infections, especially in lung transplant (LTx) candidates. Currently, there is a paucity of recommendations on the management of NTM infections in LTx, focusing onMycobacterium aviumcomplex (MAC),M. abscessusandM. kansasii.

Methods

Pulmonologists, infectious disease specialists, LTx surgeons and Delphi experts with expertise in NTM were recruited. A patient representative was also invited. Three questionnaires comprising questions with multiple response statements were distributed to panellists. Delphi methodology with a Likert scale of 11 points (5 to −5) was applied to define the agreement between experts. Responses from the first two questionnaires were collated to develop a final questionnaire. The consensus was described as a median rating >4 or <−4 indicating for or against the given statement. After the last round of questionnaires, a cumulative report was generated.

Results

Panellists recommend performing sputum cultures and a chest computed tomography scan for NTM screening in LTx candidates. Panellists recommend against absolute contraindication to LTx even with multiple positive sputum cultures for MAC,M. abscessusorM. kansasii.Panellists recommend MAC patients on antimicrobial treatment and culture negative can be listed for LTx without further delay. Panellists recommend 6 months of culture-negative forM. kansasii, but 12 months of further treatment from the time of culture-negative forM. abscessusbefore listing for LTx.

Conclusion

This NTM LTx study consensus statement provides essential recommendations for NTM management in LTx and can be utilised as an expert opinion while awaiting evidence-based contributions.
Definitions of non-response and response to biological therapy for severe asthma: a systematic review
Authors: Khaleva Ekaterina , Rattu Anna , Brightling Chris , Bush Andrew , Bourdin Arnaud , Bossios Apostolos , Chung Kian Fan , Chaudhuri Rekha , Coleman Courtney , Djukanovic Ratko , Dahlén Sven-Erik , Exley Andrew , Fleming Louise , Fowler Stephen J. , Gupta Atul , Hamelmann Eckard , Koppelman Gerard H. , Melén Erik , Mahler Vera , Seddon Paul , Singer Florian , Porsbjerg Celeste , Ramiconi Valeria , Rusconi Franca , Yasinska Valentyna , Roberts Graham
Published: January 2023

Background

Biologics have proven efficacy for patients with severe asthma but there is lack of consensus on defining response. We systematically reviewed and appraised methodologically developed, defined and evaluated definitions of non-response and response to biologics for severe asthma.

Methods

We searched four bibliographic databases from inception to 15 March 2021.Two reviewers screened references, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality of development, measurement properties of outcome measures and definitions of response based on COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN). A modified GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach and narrative synthesis were undertaken.

Results

13 studies reported three composite outcome measures, three asthma symptoms measures, one asthma control measure and one quality of life measure. Only four measures were developed with patient input; none were composite measures. Studies utilised 17 definitions of response: 10 out of 17 (58.8%) were based on minimal clinically important difference (MCID) or minimal important difference (MID) and 16 out of 17 (94.1%) had high-quality evidence. Results were limited by poor methodology for the development process and incomplete reporting of psychometric properties. Most measures rated “very low” to “low” for quality of measurement properties and none met all quality standards.

Conclusions

This is the first review to synthesise evidence about definitions of response to biologics for severe asthma. While high-quality definitions are available, most are MCIDs or MIDs, which may be insufficient to justify continuation of biologics in terms of cost-effectiveness. There remains an unmet need for universally accepted, patient-centred, composite definitions to aid clinical decision making and comparability of responses to biologics.
Outcome prediction model and prognostic biomarkers for COVID-19 patients in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hien Thi Thu , Le-Quy Vang , Ho Son Van , Thomsen Jakob Holm Dalsgaard , Pontoppidan Stoico Malene , Tong Hoang Van , Nguyen Nhat-Linh , Krarup Henrik Bygum , Nguyen Son Hong , Tran Viet Quoc , Toan Nguyen Linh , Dinh-Xuan Anh Tuan
Published: January 2023

Background

Accurate prognosis is important either after acute infection or during long-term follow-up of patients infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. This study aims to predict coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity based on clinical and biological indicators, and to identify biomarkers for prognostic assessment.

Methods

We included 261 Vietnamese COVID-19 patients, who were classified into moderate and severe groups. Disease severity prediction based on biomarkers and clinical parameters was performed by applying machine learning and statistical methods using the combination of clinical and biological data.

Results

The random forest model could predict with 97% accuracy the likelihood of COVID-19 patients who subsequently worsened to the severe condition. The most important indicators were interleukin (IL)-6, ferritin and D-dimer. The model could still predict with 92% accuracy after removing IL-6 from the analysis to generalise the applicability of the model to hospitals with limited capacity for IL-6 testing. The five most effective indicators were C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, IL-6, ferritin and dyspnoea. Two different sets of biomarkers (D-dimer, IL-6 and ferritin, and CRP, D-dimer and IL-6) are applicable for the assessment of disease severity and prognosis. The two biomarker sets were further tested through machine learning algorithms and relatively validated on two Danish COVID-19 patient groups (n=32 and n=100). The results indicated that various biomarker sets combined with clinical data can be used for detection of the potential to develop the severe condition.

Conclusion

This study provided a simple and reliable model using two different sets of biomarkers to assess disease severity and predict clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients in Vietnam.
Moderate-to-severe ARDS: COVID-19 patients compared to influenza patients for ventilator parameters and mortality
Authors: Maamar Adel , Guillot Pauline , Joussellin Vincent , Delamaire Flora , Painvin Benoit , Bichon Anaëlle , de la Jartre Océane Bernard , Mauget Matteo , Lesouhaitier Mathieu , Tadié Jean Marc , Terzi Nicolas , Gacouin Arnaud
Published: January 2023

Background

This study aimed to compare ventilatory parameters recorded in the first days of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and mortality at day 60 between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and influenza ARDS patients with arterial oxygen tension (PaO2)/inspiratory oxygen fraction (FIO2) ≤150 mmHg.

Methods

We compared 244 COVID-19 ARDS patients with 106 influenza ARDS patients. Driving pressure, respiratory system compliance (Crs), ventilator ratio, corrected minute ventilation (V′Ecorr) and surrogate of mechanical power (index=(4×driving pressure)+respiratory rate) were calculated from day 1 to day 5 of ARDS. A propensity score analysis and a principal component analysis (PCA) were performed.

Results

On day 1 of ARDS, COVID-19 patients had significantly higherPaO2/FIO2(median (interquartile range) 97 (79–129.2)versus83 (62.2–114) mmHg; p=0.001), and lower driving pressure (13.0 (11.0–16.0)versus14.0 (12.0–16.7) cmH2O; p=0.01), ventilatory ratio (2.08 (1.73–2.49versus2.52 (1.97–3.03); p<0.001),V′Ecorr(12.7 (10.2–14.9)versus14.9 (11.6–18.6) L·min−1; p<0.001) and index (80 (70–89)versus84 (75–94); p=0.004). PCA demonstrated an important overlap of ventilatory parameters recorded on day 1 between the two groups. From day 1 to day 5, repeated values ofPaO2/FIO2, arterial carbon dioxide tension, ventilatory ratio andV′Ecorrdiffered significantly between influenza and COVID-19 patients in the unmatched and matched populations. Mortality at day 60 did not differ significantly after matching (29%versus21.7%; p=0.43).

Conclusions

Ventilation was more impaired in influenza than in COVID-19 ARDS patients on the first day of ARDS with an important overlap of values. However, mortality at day 60 did not differ significantly in the matched population.
ERS International Congress 2022: highlights from the Basic and Translational Science Assembly
Authors: Cuevas Ocaña Sara , El-Merhie Natalia , Kuipers Merian E. , Lehmann Mareike , Enes Sara Rolandsson , Voss Carola , Dean Lareb S.N. , Loxham Matthew , Boots Agnes W. , Cloonan Suzanne M. , Greene Catherine M. , Heijink Irene H. , Joannes Audrey , Mailleux Arnaud A. , Mansouri Nahal , Reynaert Niki L. , van der Does Anne M. , Wagner Darcy E. , Ubags Niki
Published: January 2023

In this review, the Basic and Translational Science Assembly of the European Respiratory Society provides an overview of the 2022 International Congress highlights. We discuss the consequences of respiratory events from birth until old age regarding climate change related alterations in air quality due to pollution caused by increased ozone, pollen, wildfires and fuel combustion as well as the increasing presence of microplastic and microfibres. Early life events such as the effect of hyperoxia in the context of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and crucial effects of the intrauterine environment in the context of pre-eclampsia were discussed. The Human Lung Cell Atlas (HLCA) was put forward as a new point of reference for healthy human lungs. The combination of single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial data in the HLCA has enabled the discovery of new cell types/states and niches, and served as a platform that facilitates further investigation of mechanistic perturbations. The role of cell death modalities in regulating the onset and progression of chronic lung diseases and its potential as a therapeutic target was also discussed. Translational studies identified novel therapeutic targets and immunoregulatory mechanisms in asthma. Lastly, it was highlighted that the choice of regenerative therapy depends on disease severity, ranging from transplantation to cell therapies and regenerative pharmacology.
ERS International Congress 2022: highlights from the Sleep Disordered Breathing Assembly
Authors: Bradicich Matteo , Siciliano Matteo , Schiavi Enrico , Amante Edoardo , Cantero Chloé , Elbehairy Amany F. , Portacci Andrea , Fanaridis Michail , Testelmans Dries , Randerath Winfried , Schiza Sophia
Published: January 2023

During the European Respiratory Society (ERS) International Congress 2022 in Barcelona, Spain, the latest research and clinical topics in respiratory medicine were presented. The sleep medicine-focused presentations and symposia provided novel insights into the pathophysiology of sleep disordered breathing, its diagnostics, and new trends in translational research and clinical applications. The presented research trends focused mainly on the assessment of sleep disordered breathing-related intermittent hypoxia, inflammation and sleep fragmentation, and their implications, especially cardiovascular. The most promising methods for assessing these aspects encompass genomics, proteomics and cluster analysis. The currently available options include positive airway pressure and a combination of it and pharmacological agents (e.g.sulthiame). This article summarises the most relevant studies and topics on these subjects presented at the ERS International Congress 2022. Each section has been written by Early Career Members of the ERS Assembly 4.
Delineating associations of progressive pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis in patients with pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Gudmundsson Eyjolfur , Zhao An , Mogulkoc Nesrin , van Beek Frouke , Goos Tinne , Brereton Christopher J. , Veltkamp Marcel , Chapman Robert , van Es Hendrik W. , Garthwaite Helen , Gholipour Bahareh , Heightman Melissa , Nair Arjun , Pontoppidan Katarina , Savas Recep , Ahmed Asia , Vermant Marie , Unat Omer , Procter Alex , De Sadeleer Laurens , Denneny Emma , Wallis Timothy , Duncan Mark , Taylor Magali , Verleden Stijn , Janes Sam M. , Alexander Daniel C. , Wells Athol U. , Porter Joanna , Jones Mark G. , Stewart Iain , van Moorsel Coline H.M. , Wuyts Wim , Jacob Joseph
Published: January 2023

Background

Computer quantification of baseline computed tomography (CT) radiological pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE) associates with mortality in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). We examined mortality associations of longitudinal change in computer-quantified PPFE-like lesions in IPF and fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (FHP).

Methods

Two CT scans 6–36 months apart were retrospectively examined in one IPF (n=414) and one FHP population (n=98). Annualised change in computerised upper-zone pleural surface area comprising radiological PPFE-like lesions (Δ-PPFE) was calculated. Δ-PPFE >1.25% defined progressive PPFE above scan noise. Mixed-effects models evaluated Δ-PPFE against change in visual CT interstitial lung disease (ILD) extent and annualised forced vital capacity (FVC) decline. Multivariable models were adjusted for age, sex, smoking history, baseline emphysema presence, antifibrotic use and diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide. Mortality analyses further adjusted for baseline presence of clinically important PPFE-like lesions and ILD change.

Results

Δ-PPFE associated weakly with ILD and FVC change. 22–26% of IPF and FHP cohorts demonstrated progressive PPFE-like lesions which independently associated with mortality in the IPF cohort (hazard ratio 1.25, 95% CI 1.16–1.34, p<0.0001) and the FHP cohort (hazard ratio 1.16, 95% CI 1.00–1.35, p=0.045).

Interpretation

Progression of PPFE-like lesions independently associates with mortality in IPF and FHP but does not associate strongly with measures of fibrosis progression.
Transcriptomics and co-expression network analysis revealing candidate genes for the laccase activity of Trametes gibbosa
Authors: Chen Jie , Ye Yi , Chi Yujie , Hao Xin , Zhao Qingquan
Published: January 2023

Background

Trametes gibbosa, which is a white-rot fungus of the Polyporaceae family found in the cold temperate zone, causes spongy white rot on wood. Laccase can oxidize benzene homologs and is one of the important oxidases for white rot fungi to degrade wood. However, the pathway of laccase synthesis in white rot fungi is unknown.

Results

The peak value of laccase activity reached 135.75 U/min/L on the 9th day. For laccase activity and RNA-seq data, gene expression was segmented into 24 modules. Turquoise and blue modules had greater associations with laccase activity (positively 0.94 and negatively -0.86, respectively). For biology function, these genes were concentrated on the cell cycle, citrate cycle, nicotinate, and nicotinamide metabolism, succinate dehydrogenase activity, flavin adenine dinucleotide binding, and oxidoreductase activity which are highly related to the laccase synthetic pathway. Among them, gene_8826 (MW199767), gene_7458 (MW199766), gene_61 (MW199765), gene_1741 (MH257605), and gene_11087 (MK805159) were identified as central genes.

Conclusion

Laccase activity steadily increased in wood degradation. Laccase oxidation consumes oxygen to produce hydrogen ions and water during the degradation of wood. Some of the hydrogen ions produced can be combined by Flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) to form reduced Flavin dinucleotide (FADH2), which can be transmitted. Also, the fungus was starved of oxygen throughout fermentation, and the NADH and FADH2 are unable to transfer hydrogen under hypoxia, resulting in the inability of NAD and FAD to regenerate and inhibit the tricarboxylic acid cycle of cells. These key hub genes related to laccase activity play important roles in the molecular mechanisms of laccase synthesis for exploring industrial excellent strains.
Age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index as effective predictor for in-hospital mortality of patients with cardiac arrest: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Nan , Lin Qingting , Jiang Hui , Zhu Huadong
Published: January 2023

Background

Cardiac arrest is currently one of the leading causes of mortality in clinical practice, and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) is widely utilized to assess the severity of comorbidities. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between the age-adjusted CCI score and in-hospital mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with the diagnosis of cardiac arrest, which is important but less explored previously.

Methods

This was a retrospective study including patients aged over 18 years from the MIMIC-IV database. We calculated the age-adjusted CCI using age information and ICD codes. The univariate analysis for varied predictors’ differences between the survival and the non-survival groups was performed. In addition, a multiple factor analysis was conducted based on logistic regression analysis with the primary result set as hospitalization death. An additional multivariate regression analysis was conducted to estimate the influence of hospital and ICU stay.

Results

A total of 1772 patients were included in our study, with median age of 66, among which 705 (39.8%) were female. Amongst these patients, 963 (54.3%) died during the hospitalization period. Patients with higher age-adjusted CCI scores had a higher likelihood of dying during hospitalization (P < 0.001; OR: 1.109; 95% CI: 1.068–1.151). With the age-adjusted CCI incorporated into the predictive model, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.794 (CI: 0.773–0.814), showing that the prediction model is effective. Additionally, patients with higher age-adjusted CCI scores stayed longer in the hospital (P = 0.026, 95% CI: 0.056–0.896), but there was no significant difference between patients with varied age-adjusted CCI scores on the days of ICU stay.

Conclusion

The age-adjusted CCI is a valid indicator to predict death in ICU patients with cardiac arrest, which can offer enlightenment for both theory literatures and clinical practice.
Prognostic significance of serum CA125 in the overall management for patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Authors: Sui Chao , Lin Chen , Tao Tingting , Guan Wenxian , Zhang Haoran , Tao Liang , Wang Meng , Wang Feng
Published: January 2023

Background

Carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) is elevated as a tumor marker in many carcinomas, but its association with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) has received less attention. This study intends to evaluate whether CA125 level can predict tumor progression and overall survival (OS) of GIST patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data and follow-up records of GIST patients who underwent surgical resection in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from August 2010 to December 2020. All patients were classified according to serum CA125 level. The relationship between CA125 and clinical outcomes was then examined.

Results

A total of 406 GIST patients were enrolled in this study, among which 46 patients had preoperative elevated serum CA125 level and 13 patients with high CA125 level both preoperative and postoperative were observed. Preoperative CA125 concentration was significantly related to rupture status, resection style, tumor site, tumor size, mitotic index, NIH risk grade and c-kit exons. According to Kaplan–Meier curve analysis, high expression of postoperative CA125 was significantly correlated with worse progression-free survival (PFS) and OS among patients with preoperative elevated CA125 level. Ultimately, Cox proportional regression model analysis revealed that increase of preoperative and concurrent postoperative CA125 concentration was an independent predictive factor for PFS.

Conclusions

The concurrent abnormality of serum CA125 before and after operation was an independent risk factor for GIST progression, suggesting its significance as a serum biomarker in the overall management of GIST patients.
Dance on: a mixed-method study into the feasibility and effectiveness of a dance programme to increase physical activity levels and wellbeing in adults and older adults
Authors: Britten Laura , Pina Ilaria , Nykjaer Camilla , Astill Sarah
Published: January 2023

Background

Physical activity (PA) has beneficial effects on physical and mental health outcomes in older adults. However, a consistent decline in PA participation has been noted with increasing age, with older adults consistently being reported as the least physically active population. Previous evidence showed that dance is an appropriate form of PA in older adults as it integrates the body’s movement with physical, cognitive, and social elements. This study investigated the feasibility and efficacy of a weekly dance programme over a 12-month period on PA levels and wellbeing.

Methods

A mixed-method intervention design was used. Community-dwelling older adults aged 55 + years were recruited from local community groups in Yorkshire (UK). The programme comprised of a 60-min mixed genre dance class per week. Changes with carried forward data in self-reported measures of PA (min/week) and wellbeing with EuroQol visual analogue scale (EQ VAS) across four different time points (baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months) were assessed using the Friedman test. Feasibility was also assessed through class attendance and focus groups (N = 6–9) with participants. A thematic analysis of qualitative data was conducted.

Results

A total of 685 participants (589–89.1% females and 72–10.9% males) took part in the study. The mean age was 75 ± 10 years, and 38% of the participants were classed as highly deprived as per the index of multiple deprivation. There was a statistically significant increase in both PA (X2(3) = 192.42, P < 0.001) and EQ VAS scores across the four time points (X2(3) = 19.66, P < 0.001). The mean adherence rate was consistent across the 12-month period of intervention (70%). Themes from the focus groups included reasons for participating in the programme, perceptions of how the dance programme affected the participants, and facilitators to participation in the programme.

Conclusions

The good adherence and favourability indicate that the dance programme is feasible as an intervention in community-dwelling participants from socially economically diverse communities. The dance intervention showed a positive effect on PA levels and wellbeing. A randomised-controlled trial with a control group is required to test this intervention further.
Invasiveness potential of pneumococcal serotypes in children after introduction of PCV13 in Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Kirolos Amir , Swarthout Todd D. , Mataya Andrew A. , Bonomali Farouck , Brown Comfort , Msefula Jacquline , Bar-Zeev Naor , Iroh Tam Pui-Ying , Alaerts Maaike , Bilima Sithembile , Heyderman Robert S. , French Neil
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The introduction of PCV13 to the Malawi infant immunization schedule in 2011 has been associated with reduced disease from Streptococcus pneumoniae. Improved understanding of serotypes with high invasive potential can guide future vaccination interventions. We aimed to estimate pneumococcal serotypes associated with acute respiratory infection (ARI) and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in hospitalized children in Blantyre, Malawi.

Methods

We analysed data from healthy children under 5 years in the community in Blantyre and children admitted to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital with ARI between 2015 and 2018. Nasopharyngeal swabs from children were tested for S. pneumoniae and serotyped by latex agglutination if positive. We analysed culture-positive blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples from admitted children between 2012 and 2018 to identify cases of IPD after the introduction of PCV13. We calculated the age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of carriage for S. pneumoniae vaccine serotypes (VT) comparing those with ARI to healthy children. We also calculated age-adjusted ORs comparing serotypes causing IPD to carriage in the community with OR > 1 indicating high invasive potential.

Results

Serotypes 5 (OR 24.73 [95% CI 7.90–78.56] p < 0.001), 1 (OR 23.38 [95% CI 9.75–56.06] p < 0.001), and 6B (OR 4.73 [95% CI 1.66–11.64] p = 0.001) had high invasive potential. Serotype 6B was no longer significant (OR 1.34 [95% CI 0.07–6.87] p = 0.777) in a sensitivity analysis accounting for year of recruitment. The prevalence of S. pneumoniae carriage in the community was 72.6% [95% CI 71.3–74.0] (3078/4238) and 23.4% (719/3078) of positive community samples were VT. The carriage prevalence in those hospitalised with ARI was 45.5% [95% CI 42.1–48.9] (389/855) and 43.8% of hospital attendees reported antibiotic use prior to admission. We did not identify significant associations with carriage of any serotypes in those with ARI.

Conclusions

Pneumococcal serotypes 5 and 1 are associated with high invasive potential. Despite high community pneumococcal carriage, pre-hospital antibiotic usage likely reduces pneumococcal detection among children admitted in this setting and further research is needed to investigate serotypes associated with ARI. Data from this study can guide future preventative vaccination strategies in Malawi.