bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
piNET: a versatile web platform for downstream analysis and visualization of proteomics data
Authors: Shamsaei Behrouz , Chojnacki Szymon , Pilarczyk Marcin , Najafabadi Mehdi , Chen Chuming , Ross Karen , Matlock Andrea , Muhlich Jeremy , Chutipongtanate Somchai , Vidovic Dusica , Sharma Vagisha , Vasiliauskas Juozas , Jaffe Jake , MacCoss Michael , Wu Cathy , Pillai Ajay , Ma’ayan Avi , Schurer Stephan , Medvedovic Mario , Meller Jarek
Published: April 2019

Large proteomics data, including those generated by mass spectrometry, are being generated to characterize biological systems at the protein level. Computational methods and tools to identify and quantify peptides, proteins and post-translational modifications (PTMs) that are captured in modern mass spectrometers have matured over the years. On the other hand, tools for downstream analysis, interpretation and visualization of proteomics data sets, in particular those involving PTMs, require further improvement and integration to accelerate scientific discovery and maximize the impact of proteomics studies by connecting them better with biological knowledge across not only proteomics, but also other Omics domains. With the goal of addressing these challenges, the piNET server has been developed as a versatile web platform to facilitate mapping, annotation, analysis and visualization of peptide, PTM, and protein level quantitative data generated by either targeted, shotgun or other proteomics approaches. Building on our experience with large scale analysis of gene and protein expression profiles as part of the Library of Integrated Network Cellular Signatures (LINCS) project, piNET has been designed as a fast, versatile and easy to use web-based tool with three modules that provide mapping from peptides (with PTMs) to proteins, from PTM sites to modifying enzymes that target those sites, and finally from proteins (with PTMs) to pathways, and for further mechanistic insights to LINCS signatures of chemical and genetic perturbations. piNET is freely available at http://www.pinet-server.org.
Xyloglucan homeostasis and microtubule dynamics synergistically maintain meristem geometry and robustness of phyllotaxis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhao Feng , Chen Wenqian , Sechet Julien , Martin Marjolaine , Bovio Simone , Lionnet Claire , Long Yuchen , Battu Virginie , Mouille Grégory , Monéger Françoise , Traas Jan
Published: April 2019

The shoot apical meristem (SAM) gives rise to all aerial organs of the plant. The cell walls are supposed to play a central role in this process, translating molecular regulation into dynamic changes of growth rates and directions, although their precise role in morphogenesis during organ formation remains not well understood. Here we investigate the role of xyloglucans (XyGs), which form a major, yet functionally poorly characterized, wall component in the SAM. Using immunolabeling, biochemical analysis, genetic approaches, micro-indentation, laser ablations and live imaging, we show that XyGs are important for meristem shape and phyllotaxis, although no difference in cell wall stiffness could be observed when XyGs are perturbed. Mutations in enzymes required for XyG synthesis also affect other cell wall components such as cellulose content and the pectin methylation status. Interestingly, we show that the control of cortical microtubules dynamics by the severing enzyme KATANIN becomes vital when XyGs are perturbed or absent. This suggests an active role of the cytoskeleton in compensating for altered wall composition.
Heterologous Expression of Pediocin PA-1 inEscherichia coli
Authors: Anh Thu Nguyen Pham , Hong Thuy Dao Thi , Nghia Nguyen Hieu , Phuong Thao Dang Thi
Published: April 2019

Pediocin PA-1 is an antimicrobial peptide which has a strongly activity against some Gram – positive pathogens such asListeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis…With the broad inhibitory spectrum as well as pH and temperature stability, pediocin has a potential application in food preservation as well as pharmaceutical industry. For higher manufactory efficiency, pediocin has been expressed in both prokaryote and eukaryote heterologous expression system, mostly on Escherichia coli with different strategies. Here, we show a new strategy to produce pediocin fromEscherichia coliBL21(DE3) system as fusion form by using a vector containing NusA tag. Our results showed that NusA fused pediocin almost presented in soluble form with high efficiency (79.8 mg/l obtained by Ni-NTA purification). After remove the fusion tag, recombinant pediocin showed antimicrobial activity againstListeria monocytogenesATCC 13932 as 23.5×103Au/mg as well as againstEnterococcus faecalis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Streptococcus thermophilus, especiallyVibrio parahaemolyticus– a Gram-negative bacteria which have not been reported in antimicrobial spectrum of pediocin on Bactibase. Recombinant pediocin is recorded to be stable to a wide range of pH (1-12 for 1 hour) and temperature (100°C for 15 min) as well as sensitive to protease treatment as the nature pediocin. These characteristics opened a prospect of using pediocin as bio-preservative compound in food industry.
Genomic prediction accuracies and abilities for growth and wood quality traits of Scots pine, using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) data
Authors: Calleja-Rodriguez Ainhoa , Pan Jin , Funda Tomas , Chen Zhi-Qiang , Baison John , Isik Fikret , Abrahamsson Sara , Wu Harry X.
Published: April 2019

Higher genetic gains can be achieved through genomic selection (GS) by shortening time of progeny testing in tree breeding programs. Genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS), combined with two imputation methods, allowed us to perform the current genomic prediction study in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestrisL.). 694 individuals representing 183 full-sib families were genotyped and phenotyped for growth and wood quality traits. 8719 SNPs were used to compare different genomic prediction models. In addition, the impact on the predictive ability (PA) and prediction accuracy to estimate genomic breeding values was evaluated by assigning different ratios of training and validation sets, as well as different subsets of SNP markers. Genomic Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (GBLUP) and Bayesian Ridge Regression (BRR) combined with expectation maximization (EM) imputation algorithm showed higher PAs and prediction accuracies than Bayesian LASSO (BL). A subset of approximately 4000 markers was sufficient to provide the same PAs and accuracies as the full set of 8719 markers. Furthermore, PAs were similar for both pedigree- and genomic-based estimations, whereas accuracies and heritabilities were slightly higher for pedigree-based estimations. However, prediction accuracies of genomic models were sufficient to achieve a higher selection efficiency per year, varying between 50-87% compared to the traditional pedigree-based selection.
Longitudinal white matter development in children is associated with puberty, attentional difficulties, and mental health
Authors: Genc Sila , Malpas Charles B , Gulenc Alisha , Sciberras Emma , Efron Daryl , Silk Timothy J , Seal Marc L
Published: April 2019

The pubertal period involves dynamic white matter development. This period also corresponds with rapid gains in higher cognitive functions including attention, as well as increased risk of developing mental health difficulties. This longitudinal study comprised children aged 9-13 years (n=130). Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) data were acquired (b=2800 s/mm2, 60 directions) at two time-points. We derived measures of fibre density and morphology using the fixel-based analysis framework and performed a tract-based mixed-effects modelling analysis to understand patterns of white matter development with respect to age, pubertal stage, attentional difficulties, and internalising and externalising problems. We observed significant increases in apparent fibre density across a large number of white matter pathways, including major association and commissural pathways. We observed a linear relationship between fibre density and morphology with pubertal stage, in the right superior longitudinal fasciculus and in the right inferior longitudinal fasciculus. In terms of symptom severity, fibre density was positively associated with attentional dysfunction in the right uncinate fasciculus. Overall, white matter development across ages 9-13 years involved the expansion of major white matter fibre pathways, with key right-lateralised association pathways linked with pubertal development and attentional difficulties.
Developmentally regulatedtcf7l2splice variants mediate transcriptional repressor functions during eye formation
Authors: Young Rodrigo M. , Ewan Kenneth B. , Ferrer Veronica P. , Allende Miguel L. , Godovac-Zimmermann Jasminka , Dale Trevor C. , Wilson Stephen W.
Published: April 2019

Tcf7l2 mediates Wnt/β-Catenin signalling during development and is implicated in cancer and type-2 diabetes. The mechanisms by which Tcf7l2 and Wnt/β-Catenin signalling elicits such a diversity of biological outcomes are poorly understood. Here, we study alternatively splicedtcf7l2in zebrafish and show that only splice variants that include exon 5 and an analogous humantcf7l2variant can effectively provide compensatory repressor function to restore eye formation in embryos lackingtcf7l1a/tcf7l1bfunction. Knockdown of exon 5 specifictcf7l2variants intcf7l1amutants also compromises eye formation and these variants can effectively repress Wnt pathway activity in reporter assays using Wnt target gene promoters. We show that the repressive activities of exon5-coded variants are likely explained by their interaction with Tle co-repressors. Furthermore, phosphorylated residues in Tcf7l2 coded exon5 facilitate repressor activity. Our studies suggest that developmentally regulated splicing oftcf7l2can influence the transcriptional output of the Wnt pathway.
Shariaventure capital as financing alternative of Muslim entrepreneurs
Authors: Fathonih Ah. , Anggadwita Grisna , Ibraimi Sadudin
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Muslim entrepreneurs face various obstacles when starting their business, especially in gaining access to financing. Some financing practices have someShariaviolations, so this paper tries to explore the opportunities and challenges of one financing alternative for Muslim entrepreneurship development in Indonesia that fully complies withShariaprinciples. This paper aims to further understand the concept of venture capital and how it relates to Islamic teachings, and the paper ends with the suggestion for future research direction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses qualitative methods with descriptive and exploratory analysis. A case study approach using semi-structured in-depth interviews with several key informants were conducted to identify the opportunities and challenges for Muslim entrepreneurs in gaining access to Islamic financing. Various literary syntheses are also provided to better understand alternative financing for business development of Muslim entrepreneurs.

Findings

Muslim entrepreneurship, depending on their goals and needs in obtaining financing, uses different models in the process of agreements with capital-funding institutions based onShariaprinciples.Shariaventure capital is one alternative financing that gives freedom for Muslim entrepreneurs to develop their business based on the Islamic system, without thinking about the requirements that must be met in obtaining access to the financing. However, it seems that this scheme still has relatively low interest, especially from Muslim entrepreneurs because they do not know the information and procedures ofShariaventure capital.

Practical implications

Some policy implications include increasing capital fromShariaventure capital institutions, the role of the government in providing adequate policy support and incentives and broader socialization and education about the existence and importance of developingShariaventure capital. Practical implications include useful information for Muslim entrepreneurs to address financing issues in their entrepreneurial activities and suggest insights for future research.

Originality/value

This study provides the link of financial access for Muslim entrepreneurs toShariaventure capital as a new financing business innovation. Thus, it contributes to the literature onShariaventure capital and Muslim entrepreneurship. The authors also propose some useful recommendations for further research in this field.
A qualitative research to explore practices that are utilised for managing talent development in the higher education environment
Authors: Mohammed Atheer Abdullah , Hafeez-Baig Abdul , Gururajan Raj
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate generated themes associated with talent development in the Australian higher education sector. This is because there are pragmatic advantages for universities that are focused on developing talents. For example, talent is a primary source of competitive advantage for educational institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study depends on the individual interview method as the main tool for data collection. The sample consisted of six participants who are talented. High-level individual interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed using NVivo 11.

Findings

Individual interviews have identified four key themes of talent development: performance management, coaching talent, leadership development and talent acquisition.

Research limitations

This study only targeted one country (Australia), and one sector (higher education). Hence, the generalisability of these results is limited to the Australian university sector in Queensland.

Practical implications

This study collects rich and original qualitative data regarding talent development in the higher education domain. Therefore, for instance, the research findings validate what was already found but are significant because practical data rather than theoretical were gathered through a discussion with experts in talent management. This study has a high quality because of strengthening the effect of an in-depth case study.

Originality/value

The study offers a value added to talent management theory through investigating themes of talent development for the higher education sector. This would assist researchers in this field to provide a deeper understanding and develop a theoretical foundation for their further studies. This implication is unique to the advancement of talent management theory.
International orientation of professional football beyond Europe
Authors: Fleischmann A. Carolin , Fleischmann Martin
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how professional football clubs from the English Premier League, German Bundesliga and Spanish Primera División use digital media to expand their international reach in emerging football markets (EFM) outside of Europe. Based on the EPRG framework and Rugman’s home-region hypothesis, the aim is to broaden the perspective where “sports go global” for a further understanding of actors’ international orientation in the digital sphere.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on data from desk research and a qualitative survey, comprising information on international digital media activities of 58 European clubs. Cluster analysis is used to identify different international orientations with regard to digital media activities.

Findings

The data provide evidence that clubs differ strongly in their orientations towards EFM. While some global players that provide digital media content in several EFM languages and attract a large share of Facebook followers from EFM exist, other clubs focus on their home region. League-specific differences become apparent.

Originality/value

This study determines the international online orientations of European football clubs by combining two previously separated research streams in football management studies: internationalisation and digital media activities. Most clubs with a strong EFM fan base choose polycentric, multi-language digital media strategies, followed by geocentric, standardised approaches. By offering a novel angle on internationalisation in professional football, this study contributes towards optimising clubs’ international online strategies for EFM, which are markets that promise high growth rates.
Remnant woodland biodiversity gains under 10 years of revealed‐price incentive payments
Authors: Bond Anthelia J. , O'Connor Patrick J. , Cavagnaro Timothy R.
Published: April 2019

Evaluation of conservation incentive programme outcomes is needed to direct future investment, however, monitoring of large‐scale programmes is relatively rare. Research in this area has frequently relied on space‐for‐time substitution or similar designs, rarely controlling for counterfactual trends or potential learning or leakage effects using repeated measures taken before and after intervention at impact and independent control sites.

Using a Before‐After‐Control‐Impact (BACI) monitoring design, we investigate the ecological impact of a conservation stewardship programme, where landholders set their own contract price through a reverse auction. In order to maintain or increase species and structural diversity of remnant native vegetation, contracted landholders agreed to manage grazing pressure (from stock and feral animals), control weeds and retain fallen logs. We test whether impact sites (private land under contract) changed over a 9–10 year period relative to control sites (independently managed, non‐contracted private land) and reference sites (public conservation areas).

Modest improvements were detected in native plant species richness, log abundance and grazing pressure at impact sites compared with background changes observed at control sites. While log abundance and grazing pressure were directly managed at impact sites, the improvement in native plant species richness was assumed to be influenced by reduction in multiple pressures such as grazing pressure and weed abundance.

No significant intervention effects were detected in other variables including regeneration, plant litter cover, weed cover and canopy dieback. However, these variables did show changes over time which were likely due to weather, particularly an extended period of drought followed by unusually high rainfall.

Policy implications. This study shows that revealed‐price incentive contracts can produce biodiversity improvement compared with the business‐as‐usual scenario of native vegetation management on private land. The use of a Before‐After‐Control‐Impact monitoring design enabled the separation of treatment effects from background changes such as those linked to climate and weather, demonstrating the importance of this approach for programme evaluation. We recommend the allocation of appropriate resources for monitoring and also highlight the need for the collection of baseline data prior to contract establishment at both impact and independently managed control sites.
What does the Australian public know about occupational therapy for older people? A population survey
Authors: Rahja Miia , Laver Kate
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Occupational therapy can delay functional decline and improve quality of life of older people. Yet people may not seek occupational therapy services as they may not be aware of their scope or benefits. The aim of this study was to ascertain what the general public in Australia knows about occupational therapy services for older people.

Methods

A cross‐sectional cohort study completed via a consumer panel provider PureProfile (https://www.pureprofile.com/au/) a company specialising in online survey programming to registered participants of the general public (‘panel’). For a fee, a client can include a question in a weekly survey, and receive approximately 1000 responses (including detail about the respondents’ gender, age group and place of residence). We asked a free‐text question about the participants’ understanding of occupational therapy and its role in supporting older adults. We used descriptive statistics to summarise sociodemographic data. Thematic approach to analysis was used to explore themes from the free text responses. Chi‐squared test for independence was used to explore association and/or differences between age group, gender, place of residence and understanding about occupational therapy for older people. Included were people aged ≥18 years living in Australia.

Results

We received 1004 responses; about half were female (50.9%) and one‐fifth (20.1%) aged 65 or over. Of the 1004 respondents, approximately 10% could provide a good or advanced description of occupational therapy. Over half of the participants had some, but limited knowledge about the profession with references to general rehabilitation, physical therapies and return to work type interventions.

Conclusion

Knowledge about the role of occupational therapy in supporting older people is limited. There is a need to address misconceptions that occupational therapy is only concerned with workplace or physical health‐related matters to enable better service engagement in the consumer‐driven care model in Australia.
Do Earned Income Tax Credits for Older Workers Prolong Labour Market Participation and Boost Earned Income? Evidence from Australia's Mature Age Worker Tax Offset
Authors: Carter Andrew , Breunig Robert
Published: April 2019

We examine Australia's Mature Age Worker Tax Offset (MAWTO), a targeted earned income tax credit of up to $500 to incentivise participation of workers aged 55 and over that existed from 2004–2005 to 2014–2015. Using a difference‐in‐differences approach, we find an apparent impact of the MAWTO of around 0.5 percentage points of increased labour market participation. However, placebo tests and an examination of demographic patterns lead us to believe that this point estimate does not provide compelling evidence of a labour force participation impact of the MAWTO. For women only, it had a small impact on earnings of about 1.5 per cent. Using the point estimates, we estimate that the average cost for each person induced to work longer is between $37,000 and $78,000.
Delphinidin Chloride and Its Hydrolytic Metabolite Gallic Acid Promote Differentiation of Regulatory T cells and Have an Anti‐inflammatory Effect on the Allograft Model
Authors: Hyun Ki Hyeob , Gil Ki Cheol , Kim Sung Gun , Park So‐young , Hwang Kwang Woo
Published: April 2019

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) control the reactivity of other T cells to prevent excessive inflammatory responses. They also plays a role in preventing autoimmune diseases; but when they are overproduced, they decreased vital immunity, which can lead to invasion of external pathogens. Therefore, it is most important in preventing the development of immune diseases to maintain the homeostasis of these cells. Delphinidin chloride is an anthocyanidin and known to have anti‐oxidant activities. However, its structure is very unstable and easily decomposed. One of these degradation products is gallic acid, which also has anti‐oxidant effects. In this study, we examined the effect of these materials on Tregs in controlling immune response. It was found that these materials further promote differentiation into Tregs, and TGF‐β and IL‐2 related signals are involved in this process. Furthermore, it was verified that a variety of immunosuppressive proteins were secreted more, and the function of induced Tregs was also increased. Finally, in the allograft model, we could find a decrease in activated T cells when these materials were treated because they increased differentiation into Tregs. Therefore, these two materials are expected to become new candidates for the treatment of diseases caused by excessive activation of immune cells, such as autoimmune diseases.

Practical Application

Delphinidin, a kind of anthocyanin rich in pigmented fruits, and its hydrolytic metabolite, gallic acid, are known to have antimicrobial and anti‐oxidant properties. In this experiment, it was shown that delphinidin and gallic acid had an effect of increasing the differentiation of regulatory T cells, and the effect of suppressing the function of memory T cells was also observed. Due to these functions, delphinidin and gallic acid might have the potential to be used as immune suppressive agents in organ transplant and autoimmune disease patients or be a model for food development associated with the immune system.
Differentiation Between Unfiltered and Filtered Oblica and Leccino cv. Virgin Olive Oils
Authors: Jukić Špika Maja , Žanetić Mirella , Kraljić Klara , Soldo Barbara , Ljubenkov Ivica , Politeo Olivera , Škevin Dubravka
Published: April 2019

The quality parameters, a variety of microcomponents, and the sensory characteristics of Oblica and Leccino cv. virgin olive oils (VOOs) were evaluated before and after filtration process adopted in order to estimate the individual varietal compositional changes. The dynamics of the formation of hydrolytic and oxidative changes in unfiltered (UF) and filtered (F) oils was asses by comparing level of free fatty acids (FFA), peroxide value (PV), and spectrophotometric indices periodically during 1 year of oil storage. An analysis of phenolics, tocopherols, and fatty acids was determined by chromatographic (HPLC and GC) and spectrometric methods, oxidative stability by Rancimat method while sensory analyses of obtained olive oils were performed by a trained professional panel. Single monovarietal VOO loses phenols in different rate with the applied filtration. Total secoiridoids decreases significantly in “Oblica” VOOs while no changes in their concentrations were found between unfiltered and filtered “Leccino” oils. Intensity of desired sensory properties decreases with filtration. In “Leccino” VOOs decrease of oxidative stability was more pronounced. After 12 months of storage, filtered “Leccino” VOOs had significantly lower FFA values than observed for the unfiltered counterparts. Further, there were no significant changes in PV and K270 values between unfiltered and filtered oils of both studied varietal oils. Storage time influenced more studied quality parameters than filtration, during which PV of unfiltered oils faster deteriorate. The highest changes between stored and corresponding fresh samples were exhibited in unfiltered “Oblica” VOOs.

Practical Application

Quality enhancement of olive oil is constantly being done professionally and scientifically. The information provided in this study can be used in the industry of olive oil for improve the phenolic content, oxidative stability, and the sensory quality of virgin olive oils. The findings of stability test could be guidelines for mindful leading of the oil finishing up to bottling.
Predictive value of computed tomography in identifying extracapsular spread of cervical lymph node metastases in p16 positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Noor Anthony , Mintz Jack , Patel Sandy , Bajic Nicholas , Boase Sam , Sethi Neeraj , Foreman Andrew , Krishnan Suren , Hodge John‐Charles
Published: April 2019

Background

Extracapsular spread (ECS) of lymph node metastases is associated with poor prognosis and is an indication for adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Accurately identifying ECS using imaging may allow us to recommend primary chemoradiotherapy to avoid trimodality treatment. We investigated the accuracy of staging CT in diagnosing ECS in P16 + oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Methods

Patients with pathologically determined cervical nodal metastases from P16 + OPSCC were included. Two blinded radiologists scored images to predict the presence of ECS in comparison to histopathology.

Results

Eighty patients with a total of 91 specimens were evaluated. Pathologic ECS was identified in 53.8% of the patients. Sensitivity and specificity of CT for the two observers were 56.5% and 60.9%, and 73.3% and 66.7%, respectively. The presence of perinodal stranding was found to be significantly associated with pathological ECS.

Conclusion

Computed tomography displays consistently high specificity, which may be used to rule out the presence of extracapsular spread in cervical nodal metastases of P16 + oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.
A DNA barcode library for 5,200 German flies and midges (Insecta: Diptera) and its implications for metabarcoding‐based biomonitoring
Authors: Morinière Jérôme , Balke Michael , Doczkal Dieter , Geiger Matthias F. , Hardulak Laura A. , Haszprunar Gerhard , Hausmann Axel , Hendrich Lars , Regalado Ledis , Rulik Björn , Schmidt Stefan , Wägele Johann‐Wolfgang , Hebert Paul D. N.
Published: April 2019

This study summarizes results of a DNA barcoding campaign on German Diptera, involving analysis of 45,040 specimens. The resultant DNA barcode library includes records for 2,453 named species comprising a total of 5,200 barcode index numbers (BINs), including 2,700COIhaplotype clusters without species‐level assignment, so called “dark taxa.” Overall, 88 out of 117 families (75%) recorded from Germany were covered, representing more than 50% of the 9,544 known species of German Diptera. Until now, most of these families, especially the most diverse, have been taxonomically inaccessible. By contrast, within a few years this study provided an intermediate taxonomic system for half of the German Dipteran fauna, which will provide a useful foundation for subsequent detailed, integrative taxonomic studies. Using DNA extracts derived from bulk collections made by Malaise traps, we further demonstrate that species delineation using BINs and operational taxonomic units (OTUs) constitutes an effective method for biodiversity studies using DNA metabarcoding. As the reference libraries continue to grow, and gaps in the species catalogue are filled, BIN lists assembled by metabarcoding will provide greater taxonomic resolution. The present study has three main goals: (a) to provide a DNA barcode library for 5,200 BINs of Diptera; (b) to demonstrate, based on the example of bulk extractions from a Malaise trap experiment, that DNA barcode clusters, labelled with globally unique identifiers (such as OTUs and/or BINs), provide a pragmatic, accurate solution to the “taxonomic impediment”; and (c) to demonstrate that interim names based on BINs and OTUs obtained through metabarcoding provide an effective method for studies on species‐rich groups that are usually neglected in biodiversity research projects because of their unresolved taxonomy.
Influence of disease duration and socioeconomic factors on the prevalence of infection and hospitalization in rheumatoid arthritis: KRAC study
Authors: Chandrashekara S. , Shobha Vineeta , Dharmanand Balebail G. , Jois Ramesh , Kumar Sharath , Mahendranath Kurugodu Mathada , Haridas Vikram , Prasad Shiva , Singh Yogesh , Daware Manisha Ashwin , Swamy Anupama , Subramanian Ramaswamy , Somashekar Srirama Attappa , Shanthappa Arun Madhanaghatta , Anupama K. R.
Published: April 2019

Aim

The use of healthcare resources by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients can be related to the presence of disease, comorbid conditions, use of steroids, and the combined use of immunosuppressants. This study evaluated the risk factors associated with infection and hospitalization in RA.

Methods

This multicenter, cross‐sectional study enrolled 3247 RA subjects fulfilling the 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism criteria to examine the prevalence of hospitalization and episodes of documentable non‐tubercular infections as a part of the “Karnataka rheumatoid arthritis comorbidity” study (KRAC). The study included 2081 subjects and 1166 were excluded due to incomplete data. Demographic, clinical and treatment variables were collected, and the events related to infections and hospitalization were extracted from the medical records. Comparative analysis and multivariate logistic regression were performed.

Results

Around 22% of the subjects had hospitalizations and 2.9% had infections. Infections were pertaining to dental (1.3%), urinary tract (1.6%) and candidiasis (0.2%). Skin‐ and soft tissue‐related infections were found in 1.8% and 0.3% of patients, respectively. Increased need of hospitalization in RA patients was associated with advanced age (≥60 years), lower education, family income, and longer duration of RA. Presence of comorbidity, usage of three or more disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and family income influenced the likelihood of infection. Dental infections were less likely in working subjects and more likely in patients with increased disease duration, higher family income, comorbidities and those between the age group 40‐59 years. Urinary tract infection was associated with DMARD usage.

Conclusion

Patient‐specific risk factors should be considered to improve treatment strategies and to reduce the risk of infection and hospitalization in RA patients.
Brief Motivational Interventions Are Associated with Reductions in Alcohol‐Induced Blackouts Among Heavy Drinking College Students
Authors: Acuff Samuel F. , Voss Andrew T. , Dennhardt Ashley A. , Borsari Brian , Martens Matthew P. , Murphy James G.
Published: April 2019

Background

Alcohol‐induced blackouts, a form of anterograde amnesia that restricts the encoding of short‐term memories into long‐term ones, are among the most severe alcohol‐related consequences. College students are at high risk of experiencing alcohol‐induced blackouts, and there is a need to determine whether alcohol interventions can effectively reduce blackouts in this population. The current study uses data from 3 randomized clinical trials to examine the effect of various intervention approaches on alcohol‐induced blackouts.

Methods

Four interventions were compared over 3 studies: (i) a computerized feedback intervention (electronic Check‐Up To Go [e‐Chug]; Study 1); (ii) a single‐session brief motivational intervention (BMI; Study 1); (iii) a BMI plus behavioral economic session focused on increasing substance‐free activities (BMI + Substance‐Free Activity Session [SFAS]; Studies 2 and 3); and (iv) a BMI plus supplemental Relaxation Training session (BMI + Relaxation Training; Studies 2 and 3). Studies 1 and 3 also included an assessment‐only control condition. For each study, participants reported whether they had experienced an alcohol‐induced blackout at each time point; binary logistic regressions examined differential likelihood of experiencing an alcohol‐induced blackout over time.

Results

Neither the single‐session BMI nor e‐Chug reduced alcohol‐induced blackouts over assessment only; however, participants in the BMI + SFAS or BMI + Relaxation Training condition were significantly less likely to experience an alcohol‐induced blackout compared to assessment only at 1‐month (Wald = 4.77, odds ratio [OR] = 0.53, p = 0.03) and 6‐month follow‐ups (Wald = 5.72, OR = 0.52, p = 0.02). Study 2 also revealed a larger effect for the BMI + SFAS over the BMI + Relaxation Training condition at 6 months (Wald = 4.11 OR = 0.22, p = 0.043), although this was not replicated in Study 3. The effects for the 2‐session BMIs lasted 6 months, at which point maturation effects diminished differences between assessment‐only and intervention conditions.

Conclusions

Two sessions of BMI are a substantial enough dose to result in reductions in alcohol‐induced blackouts among college student heavy drinkers.
Mindfulness‐Based Relapse Prevention and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation to Reduce Heavy Drinking: A Double‐Blind Sham‐Controlled Randomized Trial
Authors: Witkiewitz Katie , Stein Elena R. , Votaw Victoria R. , Wilson Adam D. , Roos Corey R. , Gallegos Stevi J. , Clark Vincent P. , Claus Eric D.
Published: April 2019

Background

Mindfulness‐based relapse prevention (MBRP) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have independently shown benefits for treating alcohol use disorder (AUD). Recent work suggests tDCS may enhance mindfulness. The combination of MBRP and tDCS may provide synergistic benefits and may target both behavioral and neurobiological dysfunctions in AUD. The goal of this double‐blind sham‐controlled randomized trial was to examine the efficacy of a rolling group MBRP treatment combined with tDCS among individuals interested in reducing their drinking.

Methods

Individuals who were interested in reducing their alcohol use (n = 84; 40.5% female; mean age = 52.3; 98.9% with current AUD) were randomized to receive active (2.0 milliamps) or sham (0.0 milliamps) anodal tDCS (5 cm × 3 cm electrode) of the right inferior frontal gyrus with the 5 cm × 3 cm cathodal electrode applied to the left upper arm, combined with 8 weeks of outpatient MBRP rolling group treatment. Assessments were conducted at baseline, posttreatment, and 2 months following treatment. The primary outcome was drinks per drinking day, and secondary outcomes were percent heavy drinking days, self‐reported craving, alcohol cue reactivity in an alcohol cue task, and response inhibition in a stop signal reaction time task.

Results

Results indicated significant reductions in drinks per drinking day over time, B(SE) = −0.535 (0.16), p = 0.001, and a significant dose effect for number of groups attended, B(SE) = −0.259 (0.11), p = 0.01. There were also significant effects of time and dose for number of groups attended on secondary outcomes of percent heavy drinking days and alcohol cue reactivity. There were no effects of active versus sham tDCS on primary or secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

Findings from the current study provide initial support for the effectiveness of rolling group MBRP as an outpatient treatment for drinking reduction. The current study did not find additive effects of this tDCS protocol in enhancing MBRP among individuals with drinking reduction goals.
Assessment of gastric emptying of maltodextrin, coffee with milk and orange juice during labour at term using point of care ultrasound: a non‐inferiority randomised clinical trial
Authors: Nascimento A. C. , Goveia C. S. , Guimarães G. M. N. , Filho R. P. L. , Ladeira L. C. A. , Silva H. B. G.
Published: April 2019

Labouring women have been shown to have slower gastric emptying than non‐pregnant subjects, and this argument is sometimes used to recommend fasting guidelines such as nil‐by‐mouth during labour. We performed a parallel group, randomised non‐inferiority trial, comparing gastric emptying of 450 ml isocalorically‐adjusted maltodextrin, coffee with milk or pulp‐free orange juice, with 18 women in each group. The women were initially fasted for 2 h for clear fluids, 6 h for a light meal and 8 h for a high fat or high protein meal. We performed gastric ultrasound in the semirecumbent–right lateral decubitus position. Gastric antral area was measured at baseline and at 5 min, 30 min, 60 min, 90 min and 120 min. Gastric emptying of maltodextrin was significantly faster than coffee with milk (p < 0.001) and orange juice (p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between pulp‐free orange juice and coffee with milk (p = 0.97). The estimated gastric residual volume was lower than baseline from 90 min after drinking maltodextrin. In labouring women, maltodextrin is cleared from the stomach faster than coffee with milk and orange juice. Gastric emptying depends on other factors besides the caloric load and volume of the drink.
Quality of life after oncoplastic breast‐conserving surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Aristokleous Iliana , Saddiq Muhammad
Published: April 2019

Background

Oncoplastic breast‐conserving surgery (OBCS) has gained increasing attention as a treatment option for early breast cancer patients, aiming to achieve the best possible breast symmetry with concomitant oncological safety. This paper aims to systematically review the current literature on patient quality of life (QoL) after OBCS compared with QoL after breast‐conserving surgery (BCS) alone.

Methods

MEDLINE via Ovid, CINAHL via EBSCO and PsycINFO via OvidSP were searched to retrieve all relevant studies. The reference lists of identified eligible studies were manually examined to search for additional eligible studies. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme.

Results

A total of six articles met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies used validated patient‐reported outcome measures for assessing QoL with good response rates. However, only one study was of sufficiently good quality to provide good evidence (P < 0.05) in favour of OBCS, while the remainder were of low to moderate quality with differences in outcomes that were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The review found that the current evidence base is limited and not adequate enough to support or to reject the assumption that OBCS is associated with improved QoL when compared with QoL post‐BCS. However, the majority of studies show that OBCS is associated with a trend towards better patient QoL. The impact of OBCS on patient QoL needs to be more adequately investigated. Large prospective cohort studies to assess the impact of OBCS on QoL compared with QoL post‐BCS are strongly recommended.
Letter: studies of salivary pepsin in patients with gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Dettmar Peter William , Woodcock Andrew David , Wilcox Matthew David , Chater Peter Ian , Pearson Jeffrey Peter
Published: April 2019

Linked Content

This article is linked to Race et al and Corfe et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15138 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15225.
Editorial: breaking the cycle of cough in GERD—neuromodulators to the rescue? Authors’ reply
Authors: Dong Ran , Xu Xianghuai , Yu Li , Qiu Zhongmin
Published: April 2019

Linked Content

This article is linked to Dong et al and Naik and Vaezi papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15169 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15205.
Letter: meta‐analysis of prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics and antibiotics in IBS. Authors’ reply
Authors: Ford Alexander C. , Harris Lucinda A. , Lacy Brian E. , Quigley Eamonn M. M. , Moayyedi Paul
Published: April 2019

Linked Content

This article is linked to Ford et al and Sun et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15001 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15230.
Editorial: post‐operative elevation of liver enzymes and modern volatile anaesthetics—guilty as charged? Authors’ reply
Authors: Nicoll Amanda , Sood Siddharth , Bishop Bridget , Njoku Dolores
Published: April 2019

Linked Content

This article is linked to Bishop et al and Laschtowitz et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15168 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15207.
Beneficial response to mycophenolate mofetil by patients with autoimmune hepatitis who have failed standard therapy, is predicted by older age and lower immunoglobulin G and INR levels
Authors: Nicoll Amanda J. , Roberts Stuart K. , Lim Ricky , Mitchell Joanne , Weltman Martin , George Jacob , Wigg Alan , Stuart Katherine , Gow Paul , MacQuillan Gerry , Tse Edmund , Levy Miriam , Sood Siddharth , Zekry Amany , Cheng Wendy , Mitchell Jonathan , Skoien Richard , Sievert William , Strasser Simone I. , McCaughan Geoffrey W. ,   the ALA Clinical Research Network, Gastroenterological Society of Australia
Published: April 2019

Background

Mycophenolate mofetil is a commonly used salvage therapy for patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH).

Aim

To evaluate the predictors of response to mycophenolate rescue therapy to facilitate clinical decision making.

Methods

We performed a retrospective observational cohort study of AIH patients managed in 17 major Australian liver centres who received mycophenolate after an inadequate response or intolerance to corticosteroids with/without thiopurine(s). Baseline demographic, clinical and laboratory variables were compared between responders and nonresponders. A multivariable logistic regression model was developed using forward selection to identify independent predictors of treatment response.

Results

A total of 105 patients received mycophenolate rescue therapy of whom 63 (60%) achieved biochemical remission. On univariable analysis, older age (P = 0.003), INR < 1.1 (P = 0.02), and lower immunoglobulin gamma (IgG; P < 0.002) levels were associated with treatment response, while no association was found with cirrhosis status (P = 0.07) or treatment indication (P = 0.63). On multivariable analysis, lower pre‐treatment serum IgG level (P = 0.01), higher age at commencing mycophenolate (P = 0.01) and higher INR (P = 0.03) were the only significant independent predictors. An IgG level <17 g/L had a positive and negative predictive value for response of 71% and 60% respectively, while age ≥54 years when commencing mycophenolate had a positive and negative predictive value for response of 80% and 59% respectively.

Conclusion

Mycophenolate remains an excellent treatment option for patients with AIH refractory to or intolerant of standard therapy with those most likely to benefit being older and/or having lower pre‐treatment IgG levels.
Investigation of the absolute bioavailability and human mass balance of navoximod, a novel IDO1 inhibitor
Authors: Ma Shuguang , Suchomel Julia , Yanez Evelyn , Yost Edward , Liang Xiaorong , Zhu Rui , Le Hoa , Siebers Nicholas , Joas Lori , Morley Roland , Royer‐Joo Stephanie , Pirzkall Andrea , Salphati Laurent , Ware Joseph A. , Morrissey Kari M.
Published: April 2019

Aims

Navoximod (GDC‐0919, NLG‐919) is a small molecule inhibitor of indoleamine‐2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), developed to treat the acquired immune tolerance associated with cancer. The primary objectives of this study were to assess navoximod's absolute bioavailability (aBA), determine the mass balance and routes of elimination of [14C]‐navoximod, and characterize navoximod's metabolite profile.

Methods

A phase 1, open‐label, two‐part study was conducted in healthy volunteers. In Part 1 (aBA), subjects (n = 16) were randomized to receive oral (200 mg tablet) or intravenous (5 mg solution) navoximod in a crossover design with a 5‐day washout. In Part 2 (mass balance), subjects (n = 8) were administered [14C]‐navoximod (200 mg/600 μCi) as an oral solution.

Results

The aBA of navoximod was estimated to be 55.5%, with a geometric mean (%CV) plasma clearance and volume of distribution of 62.0 L/h (21.0%) and 1120 L (28.4%), respectively. Mean recovery of total radioactivity was 87.8%, with 80.4% detected in urine and the remainder (7.4%) in faeces. Navoximod was extensively metabolized, with unchanged navoximod representing 5.45% of the dose recovered in the urine and faeces. Glucuronidation was identified as the primary route of metabolism, with the major glucuronide metabolite, M28, accounting for 57.5% of the total drug‐derived exposure and 59.7% of the administered dose recovered in urine.

Conclusions

Navoximod was well tolerated, quickly absorbed and showed moderate bioavailability, with minimal recovery of the dose as unchanged parent in the urine and faeces. Metabolism was identified as the primary route of clearance and navoximod glucuronide (M28) was the most abundant metabolite in circulation with all other metabolites accounting for <10% of drug‐related exposure.