bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gelatin Methacryloyl Bioadhesive Improves Survival and Reduces Scar Burden in a Mouse Model of Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ptaszek Leon M. , Portillo Lara Roberto , Shirzaei Sani Ehsan , Xiao Chunyang , Roh Jason , Yu Xuejing , Ledesma Pablo A. , Hsiang Yu Chu , Annabi Nasim , Ruskin Jeremy N.
Published: May 2020

Background

Delivery of hydrogels to the heart is a promising strategy for mitigating the detrimental impact of myocardial infarction (
MI
). Challenges associated with the in vivo delivery of currently available hydrogels have limited clinical translation of this technology. Gelatin methacryloyl (Gel
MA
) bioadhesive hydrogel could address many of the limitations of available hydrogels. The goal of this proof‐of‐concept study was to evaluate the cardioprotective potential of Gel
MA
in a mouse model of
MI
.

Methods and Results

The physical properties of Gel
MA
bioadhesive hydrogel were optimized in vitro. Impact of Gel
MA
bioadhesive hydrogel on post‐
MI
recovery was then assessed in vivo. In 20 mice, Gel
MA
bioadhesive hydrogel was applied to the epicardial surface of the heart at the time of experimental
MI
. An additional 20 mice underwent
MI
but received no Gel
MA
bioadhesive hydrogel. Survival rates were compared for Gel
MA
‐treated and untreated mice. Left ventricular function was assessed 3 weeks after experimental
MI
with transthoracic echocardiography. Left ventricular scar burden was measured with postmortem morphometric analysis. Survival rates at 3 weeks post‐
MI
were 89% for Gel
MA
‐treated mice and 50% for untreated mice (
P
=0.011). Left ventricular contractile function was better in Gel
MA
‐treated than untreated mice (fractional shortening 37% versus 26%,
P
<0.001). Average scar burden in Gel
MA
‐treated mice was lower than in untreated mice (6% versus 22%,
P
=0.017).

Conclusions

Epicardial Gel
MA
bioadhesive application at the time of experimental
MI
was performed safely and was associated with significantly improved post‐
MI
survival compared with control animals. In addition, Gel
MA
treatment was associated with significantly better preservation of left ventricular function and reduced scar burden.
Impact of Transport Time and Cardiac Arrest Centers on the Neurological Outcome After Out‐of‐Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chien Cheng‐Yu , Tsai Shang‐Li , Tsai Li‐Heng , Chen Chen‐Bin , Seak Chen‐June , Weng Yi‐Ming , Lin Chi‐Chun , Ng Chip‐Jin , Chien Wei‐Che , Huang Chien‐Hsiung , Lin Cheng‐Yu , Chaou Chung‐Hsien , Liu Peng‐Huei , Tseng Hsiao‐Jung , Fang Chi‐Tai
Published: May 2020

Background

Should all out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (
OHCA
) patients be directly transported to cardiac arrest centers (
CAC
s) remains under debate. Our study evaluated the impacts of different transport time and destination hospital on the outcomes of
OHCA
patients.

Methods and Results

Data were collected from 6655
OHCA
patients recorded in the regional prospective
OHCA
registry database of Taoyuan City, Taiwan, between January 2012 and December 2016. Patients were matched on propensity score, which left 5156 patients, 2578 each in the
CAC
and non‐
CAC
groups. Transport time was dichotomized into <8 and ≥8 minutes. The relations between the transport time to
CAC
s and good neurological outcome at discharge and survival to discharge were investigated. Of the 5156 patients, 4215 (81.7%) presented with nonshockable rhythms and 941 (18.3%) presented with shockable rhythms. Regardless of transport time, transportation to a
CAC
increased the likelihoods of survival to discharge (<8 minutes: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.95; 95%
CI,
1.11–3.41; ≥8 minutes: aOR, 1.92; 95%
CI,
1.25–2.94) and good neurological outcome at discharge (<8 minutes: aOR, 2.70; 95%
CI,
1.40–5.22; ≥8 minutes: aOR, 2.20; 95%
CI,
1.29–3.75) in
OHCA
patients with shockable rhythms but not in patients with nonshockable rhythms.

Conclusions

OHCA
patients with shockable rhythms transported to
CAC
s demonstrated higher probabilities of survival to discharge and a good neurological outcome at discharge. Direct ambulance delivery to
CAC
s should thus be considered, particularly when
OHCA
patients present with shockable rhythms.
Differences in Cardiovascular Care Between Adults With and Without Opioid Prescriptions in the United States
Authors: Feng Zekun , Williams Dominic , Ladapo Joseph A.
Published: May 2020

Background

Patients prescribed opioids often have chronic conditions that increase their risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, but little is known about the primary preventive cardiovascular care these patients receive.

Methods and Results

We analyzed data from the 2014 to 2016 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey to evaluate physicians’ provision of primary preventive cardiovascular care to adults with and without opioid prescriptions. We included all visits made by adults 40 to 79 years old with at least 1 cardiovascular risk factor but no existing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. There were ≈32 million visits by adults who were prescribed opioids and ≈167 million visits by adults not prescribed opioids on an annual basis. The prevalence of primary preventive care was modest in patients with versus those without opioid prescriptions, respectively: (1) statins for patients with dyslipidemia (52.1% versus 46.3%); (2) statins for patients with diabetes mellitus (49.1% versus 37.9%); (3) antihypertensive agents for patients with hypertension (76.5% versus 65.8%); (4) diet/exercise counseling (40.5% versus 45.3%); and (5) smoking cessation therapy (25.3% versus 19.3%). In multivariate analyses, opioid use was associated with higher rates of statin therapy in patients with diabetes mellitus (adjusted relative risk [aRR], 1.25; 95% CI, 1.06–1.47;
P
=0.007) and antihypertensive medication in patients with hypertension (aRR 1.14; 95% CI, 1.06–1.22;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Overall adherence to guideline‐recommended primary preventive cardiovascular care during ambulatory visits was suboptimal. Findings show that patients prescribed opioids versus those without opioid prescriptions were more likely to receive statin therapy and antihypertensive agents in the setting of diabetes mellitus and hypertension, respectively. Ongoing efforts to bridge these gaps in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease remain a high priority.
Entering A Place of Fire
Authors: Revett Tim
Published: May 2020

Terms like “frightening” and “spiritually dark” fall short in describing many visitors’ impressions of Paraguay’s Tacumbú Penitentiary. Inmates simply refer to it as “hell.” The human rights abuses there are not merely statistics on a United Nations report – they are daily life for thousands of men: overcrowding, malnourishment, unsanitary conditions, over-extended sentences, and the constant threat of assault. According to a former warden, the main efforts in preventing a violent reaction to such circumstances as well as thwarting the consequences of the façade of correction occur inside the penitentiary’s Christian rehabilitation cell blocks, which are managed by chaplains and volunteers. This paper proposes that the primary motivations driving these ministry workers to endure the inhospitable prison environment fall under three categories used by Tewksbury and Dabney: helping inmates, visiting known inmates, and sharing religious beliefs. The paper also evaluates the effectiveness of these motivations for ministry in one of South America’s most dangerous prisons.
From Online Buddha Halls to Robot-Monks
Authors: Travagnin Stefania
Published: May 2020

The interaction between religion and the new media has affected the perception that society has of religion, changed cardinal structures in the relationship between religious practice and religious authorities, and also transformed features and functions of the media. If we look at mainland China today, religious individuals and groups have their own WeChat and Weibo accounts, and internet websites; some believers operate solely in cyberspace and perform rituals online; and commercials often adopt religious symbols to brand nonreligious products. In other words, we find religious people or organizations that use (and even own) different media platforms as channels of communication; we also see that religious imageries are more and more put to use in the secular domain for nonreligious purposes.

This article will analyze how and why Buddhists have resorted to social and digital media and even robotics to preach the Dharma and attract potential new followers, but also to redefine their public image in the wider Chinese society. This study also will ask whether the state has directed or merely engaged with this new Dharma media-enterprise, and in what way. In addressing these questions, one section of this article will explore the creation of the robot-monk Xian’er (at the Longquan Monastery, Beijing). Xian’er’s creation will be considered in relation to similar androids, placed in dialogue with the current debate on the use of robotics in religion, and viewed from posthumanist perspectives.
Deep Caller for Ocean Acoustic Releases
Authors: van Haren Hans , Laan Martin , Asjes Sander , Denissen Bas
Published: May 2020

We relate about the custom-made modification of a Benthos deep-ocean acoustic release into a “deep caller,” an acoustic transducer for calling and releasing ocean acoustic transponding releases that cannot be reached from a standard deck unit. The self-contained deep caller can be lowered down to 12 km on any nonconducting winch cable. It may prove useful to retrieve subsurface instrumentation like a seafloor lander hidden behind large rocks or in a narrow canyon, or moorings in very deep topographic depressions. We used it to retrieve a 7-km-long mooring from 10 910-m depth in the Challenger Deep, Mariana Trench, that a standard deck unit could not reach.
A Brief Screening Tool for Literacy Skills in Preschool Children: An Item Response Theory Analysis
Authors: Ecalle Jean , Thierry Xavier , Magnan Annie
Published: May 2020

In a large-scale study conducted in 4- to 5-year-old French-speaking preschoolers ( N = 12,162), early literacy skills were assessed with four short tasks designed to investigate three domains related to learning to read: letter knowledge, phonological skills, and vocabulary. This tool was developed in response to the lack of available literacy screening tools for this population. Item response theory (IRT) analyses were used to examine the discrimination and difficulty parameters of each item. Then, a structural model confirmed that all the scores contributed to a latent ability, namely, early literacy. Three variables, namely, sociodemographic zone, age, and gender, are related to performance on literacy skills. Finally, an IRT with these variables as covariates confirms that all of them explained the difference in the scores in each domain except for zone in the case of letter-name knowledge (without significant link). This initial tool for French-speaking preschoolers could be used to identify children with early difficulties and help promote early language interventions to combat subsequent difficulties in learning to read.
Religious Duress and Reverential Fear in Clergy Sexual Abuse Cases: Examination of Victims’ Reports and Recommendations for Change
Authors: Spraitz Jason D. , Bowen Kendra N.
Published: May 2020

According to prior research, approximately 14% of sexual victimizations by priests are reported to civil authorities. Victim grooming by the abuser is a main reason the number of reported incidents is low. The concept of reverential fear and religious duress is related to grooming, but very little empirical research focuses on the concept. Reverential fear and religious duress is a type of fear that limits the ability of clergy sexual abuse victims to disengage from their abuser; it intensifies when one has reverence and respect for the clergyman who abused them. In this article, available data from personnel files from several Catholic institutions are analyzed to gain a deeper understanding of reverential fear and religious duress. Findings suggest victims of clergy sexual abuse experience reverential fear and religious duress. The discussion focuses on why victims remain silent and provides recommendations for new policy and for improving existing policy.
A Complex Coronary Artery Fistula as a Potential Cause of Sudden Intraoperative Hemodynamic Compromise: A Case Report
Authors: Deana Cristian , Baron Daniele , Barbariol Federico , Negri Katerina , Vecil Marco , Vetrugno Luigi , Bove Tiziana , Monte Amato De
Published: May 2020

A patient with coronary artery fistula should be considered as high risk for intraoperative hemodynamic decompensation. In this article, we report the case of a 70-year-old man affected by a complex congenital coronary artery fistula defect. The patient underwent general anesthesia for spine surgery with permissive hypotension. The development of sudden intraoperative tachyarrhythmia with hemodynamic instability required immediate resuscitation and interruption of surgery. The claim advanced is that in patients with a coronary artery fistula permissive hypotension might be considered an option only if strictly necessary and real-time cardiac monitoring including transesophageal echocardiography is available to immediately detect and treat acute cardiac impairment.
Context matters: Learner beliefs and interactional behaviors in an EFL vs. ESL context
Authors: Sato Masatoshi , Storch Neomy
Published: May 2020

Researchers and teachers often invoke context to explain their particular research/teaching issues. However, definitions of context vary widely and the direct impact of the context is often unexplained. Based on research showing contextual differences in second language (L2) learner beliefs and interactional behaviors, the current project compared those factors in two distinct contexts: Chilean English as a foreign language (EFL) ( n = 19) and Australian English as a second language (ESL) ( n = 27) contexts. In this project, the learners completed a set of group discussion activities as part of their regular class work. They then completed a questionnaire pertaining to L2 motivation, perceptions of group work, and first language (L1) use. The group interaction data were analysed for: (1) the frequency of language-related episodes (LREs); (2) the initiator of LREs (self or other); and (3) L1 use for resolving LREs. The results showed that the EFL learners produced significantly more LREs. The EFL learners also used more L1 to resolve LREs. Factor analyses of the questionnaire data, conducted within- and across-contexts, showed notable differences in the two contexts as well. However, the findings of learner beliefs did not necessarily account for the differential classroom behaviors. We discuss our findings by reference to the socio-linguistic and socio-educational statuses of English in the two contexts as well as approaches to instruction which together shaped the learners’ differential needs and purposes for learning the L2.
Age-Related Alterations in Endocrine Markers Do Not Match Changes in Psychosocial Measures: Findings From the Men’s Health 40+ Longitudinal Study
Authors: Lacker T.J. , Walther A. , Ehlert U.
Published: May 2020

While life expectancy continues to increase, aging can bring several distinct endocrine and psychosocial changes. The study aimed to investigate the interplay between biopsychosocial factors of healthy aging in specifically healthy aging men. Ninety-seven healthy aging men were investigated at two time points spanning 4 years. Participants completed questionnaires measuring several psychosocial dimensions and gave saliva samples for hormone quantification during a laboratory appointment. The study applied a random intercept mixed-model approach. Age-related changes were found in most endocrine markers (cortisol, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate, and progesterone), except for estradiol. Psychosocial measures remained stable, except for increased social support. Further, changes in endocrine and psychosocial measures were independent of each other. The results suggest that in healthy aging men, age-related endocrine changes occur, but do not necessarily determine a change in psychosocial measures. Potentially, preventive interventions can be derived from these results.
23-O-Substituted-2,3-Dehydrosilybins Selectively Suppress Androgen Receptor-Positive LNCaP Prostate Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Jiang Ziran , Sekhon Arman , Oka Yogeshwari , Chen Guanglin , Alrubati Nagat , Kaur Jasleen , Orozco Alexia , Zhang Qiang , Wang Guangdi , Chen Qiao-Hong
Published: May 2020

As part of our ongoing project to search for natural product-based antiandrogens, nine derivatives of 2,3-dehydrosilybin have been synthesized for the evaluation of its antiproliferative activity in an androgen receptor-positive prostate cancer cell model. Specifically, 3,5,7,20- O-tetramethyl-2,3-dehydrosilybin was synthesized through two approaches, and eight 23- O-substituted-3,5,7,20- O-tetramethyl-2,3-dehydrosilybins were achieved from 3,5,7,20- O-tetramethyl-2,3-dehydrosilybin. The antiproliferative potency of 3,5,7,20- O-tetramethyl-2,3-dehydrosilybin and its eight derivatives were assessed in an androgen receptor (AR)-positive LNCaP prostate cancer cell line, as well as in two AR-negative (PC-3 and DU145) prostate cancer cell models as a comparison. Our WST cell proliferation assay data indicate 3,5,7,20- O-tetramethyl-2,3-dehydrosilybin and most of its 23- O-substituents can selectively inhibit AR-positive LNCaP prostate cancer cell proliferation. Our data suggest that 3,5,7,20- O-tetramethyl-2,3-dehydrosilibins could serve as a natural product-based scaffold for new antiandrogens for lethal castration-resistant prostate cancer.
An Unresolved Dilemma in English Bible Translation: How to English Paul’s Use of the Δικαι- Family
Authors: Moore Richard K.
Published: May 2020

From the Lollard versions of the fourteenth century, the six words of the word family at the heart of Paul’s doctrine of justification have most often been represented by two English word families. Tyndale also used them for his 1526 New Testament, providing the model for KJV (1611), dominant for over 350 years. With the Reformation, this two-word-family approach became linked with the Protestants’ forensic model of justification. In the nineteenth century an alternative view was developed: the relational model. Characterized by a single English word family, it became quite influential in the last third of the twentieth century, being the preferred model of the mainstream Bible Societies in the USA and Britain. However, by the twenty-first century it had disappeared from commonly used English versions. Reasons given here show that reinstatement of the relational model is essential if Paul’s message of justification is to become intelligible to an English reader.
Sonographic Evaluation of a Unique Meso-Rex Shunt: A Case Study
Authors: Cain Danielle E. , Anderson Sharlette
Published: May 2020

Portal hypertension is a result of an increase in intrahepatic resistance in the main portal vein. The Meso-Rex shunt is used to bypass the obstructed portal vein and restore the venous flow into the liver. This procedure alleviates the need for a hepatic transplant. The Meso-Rex shunt has proven to be an effective treatment for extrahepatic portal vein obstruction, thus saving children from a complete transplant. There are variants to this bypass surgery, and sonography is commonly used to assess the condition pre- and postoperatively. In this case, the shunt was uniquely different from the typical Meso-Rex bypass surgery. Particular vasculature made it imperative for the sonographer to review the prior sonograms and review the chart information before preforming the examination. It should also be noted that sonographers must adapt the protocols to give the utmost treatment.
Evaluation of the morphometric covariation between palatal and craniofacial skeletal morphology in class III malocclusion growing subjects
Authors: Paoloni V. , Gastaldi G. , Franchi L. , De razza F. C. , Cozza P.
Published: May 2020

Background

To study the covariation between palatal and craniofacial skeletal morphology in Class III growing patients through geometric morphometric analysis (GMM).

Methods

In this retrospective study, 54 Class III subjects (24F,30M;7.6 ± 0.8yy) were enrolled following these inclusion criteria: European ancestry, Class III skeletal and dental relationship, early mixed dentition, prepubertal skeletal maturation, familiarity for Class III malocclusion, no pseudo Class III malocclusion. Each patient provided upper digital cast and cephalogram before starting the therapy. Landmarks and semilandmarks were digitized (239 on the casts;121 on the lateral radiographs) and GMM was used. Procrustes analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied to show the principal components of palatal and craniofacial skeletal shape variation. Two-block partial least squares analysis (PLS) was used to assess pattern of covariation between palatal and craniofacial morphology.

Results

Regarding palatal shape variation, PC with largest variance (PC1) described morphological changes in the three space dimensions, while, concerning the craniofacial complex components, PC1 revealed morphological differences along the vertical plane. A significant covariation was found between palatal and craniofacial shape. PLS1 accounted for more than 61,7% of the whole covariation, correlating the craniofacial divergence to palatal height and width.

Conclusions

In Class III subjects increments of angle divergence are related to a narrow and high palate.
Practical issues encountered while determining Minimal Clinically Important Difference in Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: Woaye-Hune Pascal , Hardouin Jean-Benoit , Lehur Paul-Antoine , Meurette Guillaume , Vanier Antoine
Published: May 2020

Background

Using a real dataset, we highlighted several major methodological issues raised by the estimation of the Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) of a Patient-Reported Outcomes instrument. We especially considered the management of missing data and the use of more than two times of measurement. While inappropriate missing data management and inappropriate use of multiple time points can lead to loss of precision and/or bias in MCID estimation, these issues are almost never dealt with and require cautious considerations in the context of MCID estimation.

Methods

We used the LIGALONGO study (French Randomized Controlled Trial). We estimated MCID on the SF-36 General Health score by comparing many methods (distribution or anchor-based). Different techniques for imputation of missing data were performed (simple and multiple imputations). We also consider all measurement occasions by longitudinal modeling, and the dependence of the score difference on baseline.

Results

Three hundred ninety-three patients were studied. With distribution-based methods, a great variability in MCID was observed (from 3 to 26 points for improvement). Only 0.2 SD and 1/3 SD distribution methods gave MCID values consistent with anchor-based methods (from 4 to 7 points for improvement). The choice of missing data imputation technique clearly had an impact on MCID estimates. Simple imputation by mean score seemed to lead to out-of-range estimate, but as missing not at random mechanism can be hypothesized, even multiple imputations techniques can have led to an slight underestimation of MCID. Using 3 measurement occasions for improvement led to an increase in precision but lowered estimates.

Conclusion

This practical example illustrates the substantial impact of some methodological issues that are usually never dealt with for MCID estimation. Simulation studies are needed to investigate those issues.

Trial registration

NCT01240772 (ClinicalTrials.gov) registered on November 15, 2010.
Conventional and retrospective change in health-related quality of life of trauma patients: an explorative observational follow-up study
Authors: Haagsma Juanita A. , Spronk Inge , de Jongh Mariska A. C. , Bonsel Gouke J. , Polinder Suzanne
Published: May 2020

Background

Within trauma care measurement of changes in health-related quality of life (HRQL) is used in understanding patterns of recovery over time. However, conventionally-measured change in HRQL may not always reflect the change in HRQL as perceived by the patient. Recall bias and response shift may contribute to disagreement between conventional and retrospective change in HRQL. This study aimed to measure conventional and retrospective change of HRQL and assess to which extent recall bias and response shift contribute to disagreement between these two in a heterogeneous sample of adult trauma patients.

Methods

A sample of trauma patients (≥18 years) who attended the Emergency Department and were admitted to an Intensive Care unit or ward of one of ten Dutch hospitals received postal questionnaires 1 week (T1) and 3 months (T2) post-injury. At T1 and T2 participants completed the EQ-5D-3 L and EQ-VAS for their current health status. At T2 participants also filled out a recall and then-test regarding their health status at T1. The responses were used to assess conventional and retrospective change, recall bias and response shift. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to examine conventional and retrospective change on a group level. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to examine individual agreement between conventional and retrospective change. Uni- and multivariate linear regression analysis were used to investigate the association between background factors and recall bias and response shift.

Results

The EQ-5D-3 L, recall and then-test were completed by 550 patients. Mean EQ-5D-3 L summary score improved from 0.48 at T1 to 0.74 at T2. Mean EQ-VAS score improved from 56 at T1 to 73 at T2. Retrospective change was significantly higher than conventional change (EQ-5D-3 L: Z = -5.2, p < 0.05; EQ-VAS Z = -2.1, p < 0.05). Pairwise comparisons showed that agreement between conventional and retrospective change was fair (EQ-5D-3 L: ICC = 0.49; EQ-VAS: ICC = 0.48). For EQ-5-3 L response shift was significantly higher than recall bias (Z = − 4.5, p < 0.05). Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), severe injury and/or posttraumatic stress symptoms were more susceptible to recall bias and response shift.

Conclusions

We conclude that, compared to recall bias, response shift contributed more to the disagreement between conventional and retrospective change in EQ-5D-3 L summary score and EQ-VAS. Predictable subgroups of trauma patients were more susceptible to recall bias and response shift.
Longitudinal evaluation of the effects of illness perceptions and beliefs about cardiac rehabilitation on quality of life of patients with coronary artery disease and their caregivers
Authors: Thomson Patricia , Angus Neil J. , Andreis Federico , Rushworth Gordon F. , Mohan Andrea R. , Chung Misook L. , Leslie Stephen J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Patients’ negative illness perceptions and beliefs about cardiac rehabilitation (CR) can influence uptake and adherence to CR. Little is known about the interpartner influence of these antecedent variables on quality of life of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and their family caregivers. The aims of the study were: 1) to assess differences in illness perceptions, beliefs about CR and quality of life between patients with CAD and their family caregivers upon entry to a CR programme and at 6 months follow-up; and 2) to examine whether patients’ and caregivers’ perceptions of the patient’s illness and beliefs about CR at baseline predict their own and their partner’s quality of life at 6 months.

Methods

In this longitudinal study of 40 patient-caregiver dyads from one CR service, patients completed the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire and Beliefs about Cardiac Rehabilitation Questionnaire at baseline and 6 months; and caregivers completed these questionnaires based on their views about the patient’s illness and CR. The Short-Form 12 Health Survey was used to assess patients’ and caregivers’ perceived health status. Dyadic data were analysed using the Actor–Partner Interdependence Model.

Results

Most patients (70%) were men, mean age 62.45 years; and most caregivers (70%) were women, mean age 59.55 years. Caregivers were more concerned about the patient’s illness than the patients themselves; although they had similar scores for beliefs about CR. Patients had poorer physical health than caregivers, but their level of mental health was similar. Caregivers’ poorer mental health at 6 months was predicted by the patient’s perceptions of timeline and illness concern (i.e. partner effects). Patient’s and caregiver’s illness perceptions and beliefs about CR were associated with their own physical and mental health at 6 months (i.e. actor effects).

Conclusions

Overall, the patients and caregivers had similar scores for illness perceptions and beliefs about CR. The actor and partner effect results indicate a need to focus on specific illness perceptions and beliefs about CR, targeting both the individual and the dyad, early in the rehabilitation process to help improve patients and caregivers physical and mental health (outcomes).
Exogenous fibroblast growth factor 1 ameliorates diabetes-induced cognitive decline via coordinately regulating PI3K/AKT signaling and PERK signaling
Authors: Wu Yanqing , Wu Chengbiao , Ye Libing , Wang Beini , Yuan Yuan , Liu Yaqian , Zheng Peipei , Xiong Jun , Li Yiyang , Jiang Ting , Li Xiaokun , Xiao Jian
Published: May 2020

Background

Diabetes induces central nervous system damage, leading to cognitive decline. Fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) has dual function of neuroprotection and normalizing hyperglycemia. To date, the precise mechanisms and potential treating strategies of FGF1 for diabetes-induced cognitive decline (DICD) hasn’t been fully elucidated.

Methods

In this study, db/db mice were used as DICD animal model. We found that diabetes remarkably suppressed FGF1 expression in hippocampus. Thus, exogenous FGF1 had been treated for db/db mice and SH-SY5Y cells.

Results

FGF1 significantly ameliorates DICD with better spatial learning and memory function. Moreover, FGF1 blocked diabetes-induced morphological structure change, neuronal apoptosis and Aβ1–42 deposition and synaptic dysfunction in hippocampus. But normalizing glucose may not the only contributed factor for FGF1 treating DICD with evidencing that metformin-treated db/db mice has a inferior cognitive function than that in FGF1 group. Current mechanistic study had found that diabetes inhibits cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) activity and subsequently suppresses brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) level via coordinately regulating PERK signaling and PI3K/AKT signaling in hippocampus, which were reversed by FGF1.

Conclusion

We conclude that FGF1 exerts its neuroprotective role and normalizing hyperglycemia effect, consequently ameliorates DICD, implying FGF1 holds a great promise to develop a new treatment for DICD.
Correction to: Connexin32 plays a crucial role in ROS-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress apoptosis signaling pathway in ischemia reperfusion-induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Gu Yu , Huang Fei , Wang Yanling , Chen Chaojin , Wu Shan , Zhou Shaoli , Hei Ziqing , Yuan Dongdong
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Clinicopathologic features of infection-related glomerulonephritis with IgA deposits: a French Nationwide study
Authors: Miquelestorena-Standley Elodie , Jaulerry Charlotte , Machet Marie-Christine , Rabot Nolwenn , Barbet Christelle , Hummel Aurélie , Karras Alexandre , Garrouste Cyril , Crepin Thomas , Ducloux Didier , Cousin Maud , Albert Catherine , Rivalan Joseph , Cornec-Le Gall Emilie , Pourreau François , Deltombe Clément , Nochy Dominique , Szlavik Nora , Felix Sophie , Croué Anne , Buob David , Rioux-Leclerc Nathalie , Doucet Laurent , Goujon Jean-Michel , Renaudin Karine , Blanchard Emmanuelle , Eymieux Sébastien , Rabant Marion , Halimi Jean-Michel
Published: May 2020

Background

Infection-related glomerulonephritis with IgA deposits (IRGN-IgA) is a rare disease but it is increasingly reported in the literature. Data regarding epidemiology and outcome are lacking, especially in Europe. We aimed to assess the clinical, pathologic and outcome data of IRGN-IgA.

Methods

Clinical and outcome data from patients from 11 French centers over the 2007–2017 period were collected retrospectively. We reviewed pathologic patterns and immunofluorescence of renal biopsies and evaluated C4d expression in IRGN-IgA. We analyzed the correlation between histological presentation and outcome.

Results

Twenty-seven patients (23 men, mean age: 62 ± 15 years) were included. Twenty-one (78%) had Staphylococcus aureus infection and twelve (44%) were diabetic. At the time of biopsy, 95.2% had haematuria, 48.1% had a serum creatinine level of > 4 mg/dL, and 16% had hypocomplementemia. The most common pathologic presentation included mesangial (88.9%) and endocapillary proliferative glomerulonephritis (88.9%) with interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IF/TA) (85.1%). Diffuse and global glomerular C4d expression was found in 17.8%, mostly in biopsies with acute or subacute patterns, and was associated with a short delay between infection and renal biopsy compared to segmental and focal staining. After median follow-up of 13.2 months, 23.1% died, 46.2% had persistent renal dysfunction and 15.4% reached end-stage renal disease. Renal outcome was correlated to IF/TA severity.

Conclusions

Infection-related glomerulonephritis with IgA deposits is usually associated with Staphylococcus infections and mainly affects adult men. This entity has a poor prognosis which is correlated to interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy severity.
Investigating the loco-regional control of simultaneous integrated boost intensity-modulated radiotherapy with different radiation fraction sizes for locally advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: clinical outcomes and the application of an extended LQ/TCP model
Authors: Qiu Bo , Li Qi Wen , Ai Xin Lei , Wang Bin , Huan Jian , Zhu Zheng Fei , Yu Gen Hua , Ji Ming , Jiang Hai Hang , Li Cheng , Zhang Jun , Chen Li , Guo Jin Yu , Zhou Yin , Liu Hui
Published: May 2020

Background

To investigate the loco-regional progression-free survival (LPFS) of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with different fraction sizes for locally advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (LANSCLC), and to apply a new radiobiological model for tumor control probability (TCP).

Methods

One hundred and three LANSCLC patients treated with concurrent radiochemotherapy were retrospectively analyzed. Factors potentially predictive of LPFS were assessed in the univariate and multivariate analysis. Patients were divided into group A (2.0 ≤ fraction size<2.2Gy), B (2.2 ≤ fraction size<2.5Gy), and C (2.5 ≤ fraction size≤3.1Gy) according to the tertiles of fraction size. A novel LQRG/TCP model, incorporating four “R”s of radiobiology and Gompertzian tumor growth, was developed to predict LPFS and compared with the classical LQ/TCP model.

Results

With a median follow-up of 22.1 months, the median LPFS was 23.8 months. Fraction size was independently prognostic of LPFS. The median LPFS of group A, B and C was 13.8, 35.7 months and not reached, respectively. Using the new LQRG/TCP model, the average absolute and relative fitting errors for LPFS were 6.9 and 19.6% for group A, 5.5 and 8.8% for group B, 6.6 and 9.5% for group C, compared with 9.5 and 29.4% for group A, 16.6 and 36.7% for group B, 24.8 and 39.1% for group C using the conventional LQ/TCP model.

Conclusions

Hypo-fractionated IMRT could be an effective approach for dose intensification in LANSCLC. Compared with conventional LQ model, the LQRG model showed a better performance in predicting follow-up time dependent LPFS.
C’est vraiment compliqué: a case study on the delivery of maternal and child health and nutrition interventions in the conflict-affected regions of Mali
Authors: Ataullahjan Anushka , Gaffey Michelle F. , Tounkara Moctar , Diarra Samba , Doumbia Seydou , Bhutta Zulfiqar A. , Bassani Diego G.
Published: May 2020

Background

Mali is currently in the midst of ongoing conflicts which involve jihadist groups, rebels, and the state. This conflict has primarily centered in the North of the country. Humanitarian actors delivering services in these geographies must navigate the complex environment created by conflict. This study aimed to understand how humanitarian actors make decisions around health service delivery within this context.

Methods

The current case-study utilized a mixed methods approach and focused on Mopti, Mali’s fifth administrative region and fourth largest in population. Latent content analysis was used to analyze interview transcripts guided by our research objectives and new concepts as they emerged. Indicators of coverage of health interventions in the area of maternal and child health and nutrition were compiled using Mali’s National Evaluation Platform and are presented for the conflict and non-conflict regions. Development assistance estimates for Mali by year were obtained from the Developmental Assistance for Health Database compiled by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. Administrative data was compiled from the annual reports of Mali’s Système Local d’Information Sanitaire (SLIS), Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS).

Results

Our data suggests that the reaction of the funding mechanisms to the conflict in Mali was a major barrier to timely delivery of health services to populations in need and the nature of the conflict is likely a key modifier of such reaction patterns. Concerns have been raised about the disconnect between the very high administrative capacity of large NGOs that control the work, and the consequent burden it puts on local NGOs. Population displacement and inaccurate estimates of needs made it difficult for organizations to plan program services. Moreover, actors delivering services to populations in need had to navigate an unpredictable context and numerous security threats.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the need for a more flexible funding and management mechanism that can better respond to concerns and issues arising at a local level. As the conflict in Mali continues to worsen, there is an urgent need to improve service delivery to conflict-affected populations.
Early switch from intravenous to oral antibiotic therapy in patients with cancer who have low-risk neutropenic sepsis (the EASI-SWITCH trial): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Forde Caroline , McMullan Ronan , Clarke Mike , Wilson Richard H. , Plummer Ruth , Grayson Margaret , McDowell Cliona , Agus Ashley , Doran Annmarie , McAuley Danny F. , Thomas Anne L. , Barnes Rosemary A. , Adams Richard , Chau Ian , Coyle Vicky
Published: May 2020

Background

Neutropenic sepsis remains a common treatment complication for patients receiving systemic anti-cancer treatment. The UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence have not recommended switching from empirical intravenous antibiotics to oral antibiotics within 48 h for patients assessed as low risk for septic complications because of uncertainty about whether this would achieve comparable outcomes to using intravenous antibiotics for longer. The UK National Institute for Health Research funded the EASI-SWITCH trial to tackle this uncertainty.

Methods

The trial is a pragmatic, randomised, non-inferiority trial that aims to establish the clinical and cost-effectiveness of early switching from intravenous to oral antibiotics in cancer patients with low-risk neutropenic sepsis. Patients ≥ 16 years, receiving systemic anti-cancer treatment (acute leukaemics/stem cell transplants excluded), with a temperature of > 38 °C, neutrophil count ≤ 1.0 × 109/L, MASCC (Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer) score ≥ 21 and receiving IV piperacillin/tazobactam or meropenem for less than 24 h are eligible to participate. Patients are randomised 1:1 either (i) to switch to oral ciprofloxacin and co-amoxiclav within 12–24 h of commencing intravenous antibiotics, completing at least 5 days total antibiotics (intervention), or (ii) to continue intravenous antibiotics for at least 48 h, with ongoing antibiotics being continued at the physician’s discretion (control). Patients are discharged home when their physician deems it appropriate. The primary outcome measure is a composite of treatment failures as assessed at day 14. The criteria for treatment failure include fever persistence or recurrence 72 h after starting intravenous antibiotics, escalation from protocolised antibiotics, hospital readmission related to infection/antibiotics, critical care support or death. Based on a 15% treatment failure rate in the control group and a 15% non-inferiority margin, the recruitment target is 230 patients.

Discussion

If the trial demonstrates non-inferiority of early switching to oral antibiotics, with potential benefits for patient quality of life and resource savings, this finding will have significant implications for the routine clinical management of those with low-risk neutropenic sepsis.

Trial registration

ISRCTN: 84288963. Registered on the 1 July 2015. 10.1186/ISRCTN84288963.

EudraCT: 2015-002830-35.
Revision of the Atratus Group of Culex (Melanoconion) (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Sá Ivy Luizi Rodrigues de , Hutchings Rosa Sá Gomes , Hutchings Roger William , Sallum Maria Anice Mureb
Published: May 2020

Background

Despite the importance of some species of Culex (Melanoconion) (Diptera: Culicidae) as vectors of several arboviruses that cause diseases in humans and other animals, there are few taxonomic studies focusing on species of the subgenus, especially providing morphological keys for species identification.

Results

Thirteen species of the Atratus Group of Culex (Melanoconion) were reviewed, five new species are described, and two taxonomic changes are proposed: Cx. (Mel.) exedrus Root, 1927 and Cx. (Mel.) loturus Dyar, 1925 are resurrected from synonymy with Cx. (Mel.) dunni Dyar, 1918 and Cx. (Mel.) zeteki Dyar, 1918, respectively. The Atratus Group now includes fourteen species: Cx. (Mel.) atratus Theobald, 1901; Cx. (Mel.) caribeanus Galindo & Blanton, 1954; Cx. (Mel.) columnaris Sá & Hutchings n. sp.; Cx. (Mel.) commevynensis Bonne-Wepster & Bonne, 1919; Cx. (Mel.) comptus Sá & Sallum n. sp.; Cx. (Mel.) dunni; Cx. (Mel.) ensiformis Bonne-Wepster & Bonne, 1919; Cx. (Mel.) exedrus; Cx. (Mel.) longisetosus Sá & Sallum n. sp.; Cx. (Mel.) longistylus Sá & Sallum n. sp.; Cx. (Mel.) loturus; Cx. (Mel.) spinifer Sá & Sallum n. sp.; Cx. (Mel.) trigeminatus Clastrier, 1970; and Cx. (Mel.) zeteki. Keys, descriptions and illustrations for the identification of the male, female, pupal and fourth-instar larval stages of each species are provided. The treatment of each species includes a complete synonymy, descriptions of available life stages, a taxonomic discussion, updated bionomics and geographical distribution, and a list of material examined.

Conclusions

The taxonomy of the Atratus Group of Culex (Melanoconion) is updated, including descriptions of five new species. The number of valid species is greater than the number recognized in the previous taxonomic study of the group, increasing from seven to 14 species. Distributional and bionomical data are updated. Morphology-based identification keys for females, males, fourth-instar larvae and pupae provided in this study will facilitate species identification.
Multiplex PCR for identification of two butterfly sister species: Eurema mandarina and Eurema hecabe
Authors: Miyata Mai N. , Kageyama Daisuke , Nomura Masashi
Published: May 2020

Objective

In insects, closely related species are often difficult or impossible to distinguish solely by morphological traits. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) markers are often useful and reliable for distinguishing closely related species. However, useful mtDNA markers can be unavailable, particularly when such species pairs experienced hybrid introgression in the past. Although polymorphic nuclear DNA markers would be necessary to distinguish such species pairs, recombination, multiple copies, and slower mutation rates of the nuclear DNA compared with those of mtDNA often make it challenging. The objective of this study was to develop a multiplex polymerase chain reaction that can reliably amplify and distinguish theTpisequences ofEurema mandarinaandEurema hecabe.

Results

We successfully analyzed the nucleotide sequences of the Z chromosome-linked triose phosphate isomerase (Tpi) gene to develop a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) that amplified ca. 120-bp products forE. mandarinaand ca. 375-bp products forE. hecabe. We suggest that multiplex PCR usingTpiwith appropriately designed primers can be used to accurately and reliably distinguish between other closely related Lepidoptera species.
Aescin and diosmin each alone or in low dose- combination ameliorate liver damage induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats
Authors: EL-Dakhly Sara Mahmmoud , Salama Abeer Abdallah Ali , Hassanin Soha Osama Mahmoud , Yassen Noha Nazeeh , Hamza Alaaeldin Ahmed , Amin Amr
Published: May 2020

Objective

This study evaluated hepatoprotective effect of aescin (AES) and diosmin (DIO), individually or in low-dose combination in chemically induced liver injury in rats. Rats were divided into 6 groups; Group 1, control, Group 2, injected with a single dose of a mixture of corn oil and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to induce hepatic toxicity. Before CCl4 injection, Groups 3–6 were treated daily for 14 days with silymarin (SIL) (200 mg/kg), aescin (AES; 3.6 & 1.75 mg/kg), Diosmin (DIO; 100 & 50 mg/kg). Serum samples were analyzed for different liver function, oxidative stress and antioxidant markers. Moreover, inflammation and tissue damage were confirmed by histological staining of liver tissue sections.

Results

Results indicated that CCl4 elevated serum levels of all assessed liver function markers and decreased levels of key antioxidants. Administration of AES and/or DIO significantly reversed all those CCl4-induced effects. Histopathological study showed disruption of the hepatic architecture, necrosis and inflammatory cells and depositions of glycogen and protein in the tissues of CCl4-treated group. Pretreatment with DIO and/or AES significantly improved histopathological structure of liver tissue. In conclusion, low-dose combination of AES and DIO exhibited significant and preferential hepatoprotective activity compared to individual treatment with AES or DIO.