bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Composition and Metabolic Potential of the Human Small Intestinal Microbiota Within the Context of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Ruigrok Renate A A A , Collij Valerie , Sureda Paula , Klaassen Marjolein A Y , Bolte Laura A , Jansen Bernadien H , Voskuil Michiel D , Fu Jingyuan , Wijmenga Cisca , Zhernakova Alexandra , Weersma Rinse K , Vich Vila Arnau
Published: January 2021

Background and Aims

The human gastrointestinal tract harbours distinct microbial communities essential for health. Little is known about small intestinal communities, despite the small intestine playing a fundamental role in nutrient absorption and host-microbe immune homeostasis. We aimed to explore the small intestine microbial composition and metabolic potential, in the context of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD].

Methods

Metagenomes derived from faecal samples and extensive phenotypes were collected from 57 individuals with an ileostomy or ileoanal pouch, and compared with 1178 general population and 478 IBD faecal metagenomes. Microbiome features were identified using MetaPhAn2 and HUMAnN2, and association analyses were performed using multivariate linear regression.

Results

Small intestinal samples had a significantly lower bacterial diversity, compared with the general population and, to a lesser extent, IBD samples. Comparing bacterial composition, small intestinal samples clustered furthest from general population samples and closest to IBD samples with intestinal resections. Veillonella atypica, Streptococcus salivarius, and Actinomyces graevenitzii were among the species significantly enriched in the small intestine. Predicted metabolic pathways in the small intestine are predominantly involved in simple carbohydrate and energy metabolism, but also suggest a higher pro-inflammatory potential.

Conclusions

We described the bacterial composition and metabolic potential of the small intestinal microbiota. The colonic microbiome of IBD patients, particularly with intestinal resections, showed resemblance to that of the small intestine. Moreover, several features characterising the small intestinal microbiome have been previously associated with IBD. These results highlight the importance of studying the small intestinal microbiota to gain new insight into disease pathogenesis.
Partnership and Cognitive Aging in Europe: Mediating Factors and Social Stratification
Authors: Bertogg Ariane , Leist Anja K
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Living in a partnership has been shown to benefit later life health in general and decrease the risk of cognitive impairment. Few studies have, however, examined whether different types of partnership transitions also differ with respect to their impact on cognitive trajectories, and whether financial resources, healthy behaviors, cognitive stimulation, and social integration can explain these differences.

Methods

Data came from six waves of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe, which is a representative panel for the population aged 50 years or older, and were collected between 2004 and 2017 in 20 European countries. Our sample includes 215,989 valid person-year observations from 78,984 persons. The mean age at baseline is 64 years, and individuals were observed on average 2.7 times. Cognitive functioning was assessed with measures of immediate and delayed recall on a memory test and verbal fluency. Fixed effects regression models were employed to exploit individual-level variation in partnership and simultaneous cognitive changes.

Results

Partnership status was stable in most respondents (around 90%). Compared to remaining partnered and after controlling for sociodemographic factors, transition to divorce was associated with a steeper decline in immediate and delayed recall. Exploring possible mechanisms, both financial resources and social integration, explained these differences. Additional analyses suggested that effects were mostly driven by individuals with lower education.

Discussion

Partnership transitions remain infrequent events in later life, but our findings indicate that they can induce less favorable cognitive trajectories compared to partnered individuals, particularly for those with lower cognitive reserve.
The role of C-reactive protein as a prognostic marker in COVID-19
Authors: Stringer Dominic , Braude Philip , Myint Phyo K , Evans Louis , Collins Jemima T , Verduri Alessia , Quinn Terry J , Vilches-Moraga Arturo , Stechman Michael J , Pearce Lyndsay , Moug Susan , McCarthy Kathryn , Hewitt Jonathan , Carter Ben ,   COPE Study Collaborators, Bruce Eilidh , Einarsson Alice , McGovern Aine , Bisset Carly , Alexander Ross , Guaraldi Giovanni , Murphy Caroline , Kelly Joanna , Jichi Mutasem Tarik El , Singh Sandeep , Paxton Dolcie , Harris Will , Hesford James , Holloway Mark , Mitchel Emma , Rickard Frances , Galbraith Norman , Bhatti Emma , Edwards Jenny , Duffy Siobhan , Barlow-Pay Fenella , Garcia Madeline , Sangani Shefali , Kneen Thomas , Lee Thomas , Price Angeline , Davey Charlotte , Jones Sheila , Lunstone Kiah , Cavenagh Alice , Silver Charlotte , Telford Thomas , Simmons Rebecca
Published: January 2021

Background

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a non-specific acute phase reactant elevated in infection or inflammation. Higher levels indicate more severe infection and have been used as an indicator of COVID-19 disease severity. However, the evidence for CRP as a prognostic marker is yet to be determined. The aim of this study is to examine the CRP response in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 and to determine the utility of CRP on admission for predicting inpatient mortality.

Methods

Data were collected between 27 February and 10 June 2020, incorporating two cohorts: the COPE (COVID-19 in Older People) study of 1564 adult patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19 admitted to 11 hospital sites (test cohort) and a later validation cohort of 271 patients. Admission CRP was investigated, and finite mixture models were fit to assess the likely underlying distribution. Further, different prognostic thresholds of CRP were analysed in a time-to-mortality Cox regression to determine a cut-off. Bootstrapping was used to compare model performance [Harrell’s C statistic and Akaike information criterion (AIC)].

Results

The test and validation cohort distribution of CRP was not affected by age, and mixture models indicated a bimodal distribution. A threshold cut-off of CRP ≥40 mg/L performed well to predict mortality (and performed similarly to treating CRP as a linear variable).

Conclusions

The distributional characteristics of CRP indicated an optimal cut-off of ≥40 mg/L was associated with mortality. This threshold may assist clinicians in using CRP as an early trigger for enhanced observation, treatment decisions and advanced care planning.
High Levels of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Persist in the Lower Respiratory Tract of Critically Ill Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Ouwendijk Werner J D , Raadsen Matthijs P , van Kampen Jeroen J A , Verdijk Robert M , von der Thusen Jan H , Guo Lihui , Hoek Rogier A S , van den Akker Johannes P C , Endeman Henrik , Langerak Thomas , Molenkamp Richard , Gommers Diederik , Koopmans Marion P G , van Gorp Eric C M , Verjans Georges M G M , Haagmans Bart L
Published: January 2021

Lower respiratory tract (LRT) disease induced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can deteriorate to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Because the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) is implicated in ARDS pathogenesis, we investigated the presence of NETs and correlates of pathogenesis in blood and LRT samples of critically ill patients with COVID-19. Plasma NET levels peaked early after intensive care unit admission and were correlated with the SARS-CoV-2 RNA load in sputum and levels of neutrophil-recruiting chemokines and inflammatory markers in plasma samples. The baseline plasma NET quantity was correlated with disease severity but was not associated with soluble markers of thrombosis or with development of thrombosis. High NET levels were present in LRT samples and persisted during the course of COVID-19, consistent with the detection of NETs in bronchi and alveolar spaces in lung tissue from deceased patient with COVID-19. Thus, NETs are produced and retained in the LRT of critically ill patients with COVID-19 and could contribute to SARS-CoV-2–induced ARDS disease.
Humoral immunological kinetics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection and diagnostic performance of serological assays for coronavirus disease 2019: an analysis of global reports
Authors: Emeribe Anthony Uchenna , Abdullahi Idris Nasir , Shuwa Halima Ali , Uzairue Leonard , Musa Sanusi , Anka Abubakar Umar , Adekola Hafeez Aderinsayo , Bello Zakariyya Muhammad , Rogo Lawal Dahiru , Aliyu Dorcas , Haruna Shamsuddeen , Usman Yahaya , Muhammad Habiba Yahaya , Gwarzo Abubakar Muhammad , Nwofe Justin Onyebuchi , Chiwar Hassan Musa , Okwume Chukwudi Crescent , Animasaun Olawale Sunday , Fasogbon Samuel Ayobami , Olayemi Lawal , Ogar Christopher , Emeribe Chinenye Helen , Ghamba Peter Elisha , Awoniyi Luqman O , Musa Bolanle O P
Published: January 2021

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to rise and second waves are reported in some countries, serological test kits and strips are being considered to scale up an adequate laboratory response. This study provides an update on the kinetics of humoral immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and performance characteristics of serological protocols (lateral flow assay [LFA], chemiluminescence immunoassay [CLIA] and ELISA) used for evaluations of recent and past SARS-CoV-2 infection. A thorough and comprehensive review of suitable and eligible full-text articles was performed on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Wordometer and medRxiv from 10 January to 16 July 2020. These articles were searched using the Medical Subject Headings terms ‘COVID-19’, ‘Serological assay’, ‘Laboratory Diagnosis’, ‘Performance characteristics’, ‘POCT’, ‘LFA’, ‘CLIA’, ‘ELISA’ and ‘SARS-CoV-2’. Data from original research articles on SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection ≥second day postinfection were included in this study. In total, there were 7938 published articles on humoral immune response and laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19. Of these, 74 were included in this study. The detection, peak and decline period of blood anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM, IgG and total antibodies for point-of-care testing (POCT), ELISA and CLIA vary widely. The most promising of these assays for POCT detected anti-SARS-CoV-2 at day 3 postinfection and peaked on the 15th day; ELISA products detected anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG at days 2 and 6 then peaked on the eighth day; and the most promising CLIA product detected anti-SARS-CoV-2 at day 1 and peaked on the 30th day. The most promising LFA, ELISA and CLIA that had the best performance characteristics were those targeting total SARS-CoV-2 antibodies followed by those targeting anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG then IgM. Essentially, the CLIA-based SARS-CoV-2 tests had the best performance characteristics, followed by ELISA then POCT. Given the varied performance characteristics of all the serological assays, there is a need to continuously improve their detection thresholds, as well as to monitor and re-evaluate their performances to assure their significance and applicability for COVID-19 clinical and epidemiological purposes.
Miniaturized Microbiological Method to Determine the Potency of Rifaximin in Tablets
Authors: Correa Clara Bersi Motta , Kogawa Ana Carolina , Chorilli Marlus , Salgado Hérida Regina Nunes
Published: January 2021

Background

Rifaximin, a semi-synthetic antimicrobial, does not present microbiological method described in official compendia, and there is a lack of literature on this topic. The quality control of antimicrobials is extremely important to evaluate the real potency of pharmaceutical products.

Objective

A miniaturized turbidimetric method for determining the potency of rifaximin in tablets was developed and validated by turbidimetry, according to the international guidelines.

Method

Escherichia coli ATCC 10536 IAL 2393, brain heart infusion (BHI) broth, inoculum at 8%, rifaximin in purified water with 20% ethanol at 5, 10, and 20 μg/mL and 530 nm were used.

Results

The method was considered selective for rifaximin, as the adjuvants did not show activity; linear with correlation coefficients 0.9998 for standard and 0.9999 for sample; accurate with 99.73% recovery; precise with RSD less than 3%; and robust in the face of small variations in (i) rifaximin volume, (ii) proportion of ethanol, (iii) inoculum volume.

Conclusions

The method is considered adequate and safe to evaluate the potency of rifaximin in tablets, contemplating speed, low cost, low waste generation, and ease of operation.

Highlights

This work usescurrent, sustainable, and green analytical chemistry and can be used in the routine analyses of rifaximin by laboratories and the pharmaceutical industry around the world.
Going, Going, Gone? Assessing Iran's Possible Grounds for Withdrawal from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons
Authors: Evans Christopher P.
Published: January 2021

The recent targeted strike resulting in the death of Qassem Soleimani has received extensive attention for its violations of international law by the US. However, one area that has not been considered following the 3 January 2020 attack is the possible consequences this may have for Iran's nuclear non-proliferation legal obligations. Iranian officials have previously alluded to the possibility of Iran withdrawing from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) 1968 following the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in May 2018 and re-imposition of targeted economic sanctions against Iran. This article considers whether Iran can withdraw from the NPT, thus freeing Iran from its legal commitments not to develop nuclear weapons. It revisits the withdrawal provisions found in Article X of the NPT and examines the invocation of the ‘extraordinary events’ clause by other states in relation to other instruments too. In light of this, the discussion considers whether Iran can legally withdraw from the NPT, before concluding with some thoughts as to whether it should in fact pursue this option.
Counselling practices in an East Javan district, Indonesia: what information is commonly gathered by pharmacy staff?
Authors: Suryaputra Grace , Setiadi Adji Prayitno , Wibowo Yosi Irawati , Setiawan Eko , Sunderland Bruce
Published: January 2021

Counselling by pharmacy staff plays a key role in ensuring the quality use of medications in community settings. Information gathering is the first step and an essential part of counselling. Yet, data on information gathering during counselling in Indonesia is lacking.

Objective

To identify pharmacy staff’s practice of counselling and information gathered during counselling in an East Javan district, Indonesia.

Methods

A survey questionnaire was conducted in community-based health facilities in the district (i.e. 3 hospital outpatient clinics, 69 community pharmacies and 24 Community Health Centres [CHCs]); one health facility was represented by one pharmacy staff. Quantitative content analysis was used to summarise data regarding information gathering.

Key findings

Sixty-six pharmacy staff responded, giving a 69% response rate. Almost all staff reported providing counselling; those at CHCs and outpatient clinics mostly provided prescription medicine counselling (95.5% and 100.0%, respectively), while those at community pharmacies mostly provided non-prescription medicine counselling (symptom-based versus product-based requests: 94.9% versus 71.8%, respectively). For non-prescription counselling, the most frequent information gathered was details of symptoms (symptoms-based versus product-based requests: 97.3% versus 75.0%, respectively). While for prescription medication counseling, pharmacy staff mostly asked the patient’s identity (76.2%). Less than 20% of the pharmacy staff for non-prescription/prescription medication counselling gathered information on concurrent medications or history of allergies or adverse drug reactions.

Conclusions

Pharmacy staff in these Indonesian settings provided prescription/non-prescription counselling to some extent. Improved information gathering skills are required for effective counselling, especially for prescription medications, thus ensuring rational drug use among Indonesians.
The importance of trustworthy sources of scientific information in risk communication with the public
Authors: Crick Malcolm J
Published: January 2021

In the event of a nuclear accident or radiological emergency, effective communication with the public on radiation risks is important in order to contain and rein in damage to physical and mental health, and social and economic consequences. The purpose of this paper is to summarize features of trustworthy sources of scientific information, and to convey their importance in radiation risk communication by recalling other aspects influencing the effectiveness of that communication. This will draw on key references in the literature, augmented with some experience and insight gleaned from a professional career of more than 35 years at the national and international level, including contributing to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) work on the consequences of the Chernobyl accident (1990–1995), heading its incident and emergency centre (1996–2005), and as the secretary (2005–2018) of the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR), which conducts scientific reviews on the levels and effects of radiation exposure. The paper highlights the necessity of sound science and trustworthy sources, and recapitulates the main elements needed both to ensure solid conclusions on radiation epidemiology and to foster trust. The paper concludes that, while sound science and trustworthy sources are necessary, they are in themselves to a greater or lesser degree insufficient to ensure fully effective risk communication. Some of the major problems in communicating this science are highlighted to help others charged with preparing for and conducting this onerous task in the future.
Surgical technique: an improvisation in application of the technique of core-cut fistulectomy for fistula-in-ano
Authors: Parwez Masoom , Huda Tanweerul , Mital Kushal , Pandya Bharati
Published: January 2021

Cryptoglandular fistula-in-ano is a chronic inflammatory condition of the perianal region attributed to the obstruction of the glands, located chiefly at the dentate line and their subsequent infection. Anal fistulae are difficult to treat, and minimally invasive procedures are evolving with promises. We present an improvised application of core-cut technique of fistulectomy. It is a minimally invasive, simple, effective and easy to perform procedure with minimal risk of incontinence and recurrence in simple cryptoglandular fistulae-in-ano. We performed 47 cases with good results and present this procedure to emphasize the procedural modification used.
Dermatophilus congolensis dermatitis in a traveller from Thailand
Authors: de Lorenzi Caroline , Quenan Sandrine , Fontao Lionel
Published: January 2021

Dermatophilus congolensis dermatitis is a self-limited zoonotic disease whose clinical presentation may include a wide variety of aspecific tissue lesions with high potential of misdiagnosis. Contact with animals should be investigated particularly in travellers, and cultures should be made to confirm it. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported in Switzerland.
Relational perspectives as situated visualizations of art collections
Authors: Bludau Mark-Jan , Dörk Marian , Heidmann Frank
Published: January 2021

With relational perspectives, we examine the potential of traversing cultural collections along the richness of individual facets and relations through the process of developing an exploration-centered visualization. Cultural collections can contain thousands of artifacts, of which each typically possesses a diverse set of properties and individual facets constituting a unique relationship to the rest of the collection. Therefore, to create an appropriate representation of the complex data of each underlying artifact, oftentimes, it is not only interesting to get an overview of the entire collection from one perspective, but to explore the specific context of an artifact and the various relations it may have to other items. To investigate the potential of relational perspectives, we selected an art collection as a particularly promising case study. By following and reporting from a collaborative and iterative design process with an art museum, we developed a web interface that contrasts a collection overview with three situated visualizations each exposing a different kind of relational perspective on the art collection from an artifact.
Unraveling the Complex Hybrid Ancestry and Domestication History of Cultivated Strawberry
Authors: Hardigan Michael A , Lorant Anne , Pincot Dominique D A , Feldmann Mitchell J , Famula Randi A , Acharya Charlotte B , Lee Seonghee , Verma Sujeet , Whitaker Vance M , Bassil Nahla , Zurn Jason , Cole Glenn S , Bird Kevin , Edger Patrick P , Knapp Steven J
Published: January 2021

Cultivated strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) is one of our youngest domesticates, originating in early eighteenth-century Europe from spontaneous hybrids between wild allo-octoploid species (Fragaria chiloensis and Fragaria virginiana). The improvement of horticultural traits by 300 years of breeding has enabled the global expansion of strawberry production. Here, we describe the genomic history of strawberry domestication from the earliest hybrids to modern cultivars. We observed a significant increase in heterozygosity among interspecific hybrids and a decrease in heterozygosity among domesticated descendants of those hybrids. Selective sweeps were found across the genome in early and modern phases of domestication—59–76% of the selectively swept genes originated in the three less dominant ancestral subgenomes. Contrary to the tenet that genetic diversity is limited in cultivated strawberry, we found that the octoploid species harbor massive allelic diversity and that F. × ananassa harbors as much allelic diversity as either wild founder. We identified 41.8 M subgenome-specific DNA variants among resequenced wild and domesticated individuals. Strikingly, 98% of common alleles and 73% of total alleles were shared between wild and domesticated populations. Moreover, genome-wide estimates of nucleotide diversity were virtually identical in F. chiloensis,F. virginiana, and F. × ananassa (π = 0.0059–0.0060). We found, however, that nucleotide diversity and heterozygosity were significantly lower in modern F. × ananassa populations that have experienced significant genetic gains and have produced numerous agriculturally important cultivars.
Fra-1 regulates its target genes via binding to remote enhancers without exerting major control on chromatin architecture in triple negative breast cancers
Authors: Bejjani Fabienne , Tolza Claire , Boulanger Mathias , Downes Damien , Romero Raphaël , Maqbool Muhammad Ahmad , Zine El Aabidine Amal , Andrau Jean-Christophe , Lebre Sophie , Brehelin Laurent , Parrinello Hughes , Rohmer Marine , Kaoma Tony , Vallar Laurent , Hughes Jim R , Zibara Kazem , Lecellier Charles-Henri , Piechaczyk Marc , Jariel-Encontre Isabelle
Published: January 2021

The ubiquitous family of dimeric transcription factors AP-1 is made up of Fos and Jun family proteins. It has long been thought to operate principally at gene promoters and how it controls transcription is still ill-understood. The Fos family protein Fra-1 is overexpressed in triple negative breast cancers (TNBCs) where it contributes to tumor aggressiveness. To address its transcriptional actions in TNBCs, we combined transcriptomics, ChIP-seqs, machine learning and NG Capture-C. Additionally, we studied its Fos family kin Fra-2 also expressed in TNBCs, albeit much less. Consistently with their pleiotropic effects, Fra-1 and Fra-2 up- and downregulate individually, together or redundantly many genes associated with a wide range of biological processes. Target gene regulation is principally due to binding of Fra-1 and Fra-2 at regulatory elements located distantly from cognate promoters where Fra-1 modulates the recruitment of the transcriptional co-regulator p300/CBP and where differences in AP-1 variant motif recognition can underlie preferential Fra-1- or Fra-2 bindings. Our work also shows no major role for Fra-1 in chromatin architecture control at target gene loci, but suggests collaboration between Fra-1-bound and -unbound enhancers within chromatin hubs sometimes including promoters for other Fra-1-regulated genes. Our work impacts our view of AP-1.
Introduction to radiomics and radiogenomics in neuro-oncology: implications and challenges
Authors: Beig Niha , Bera Kaustav , Tiwari Pallavi
Published: January 2021

Neuro-oncology largely consists of malignancies of the brain and central nervous system including both primary as well as metastatic tumors. Currently, a significant clinical challenge in neuro-oncology is to tailor therapies for patients based on a priori knowledge of their survival outcome or treatment response to conventional or experimental therapies. Radiomics or the quantitative extraction of subvisual data from conventional radiographic imaging has recently emerged as a powerful data-driven approach to offer insights into clinically relevant questions related to diagnosis, prediction, prognosis, as well as assessing treatment response. Furthermore, radiogenomic approaches provide a mechanism to establish statistical correlations of radiomic features with point mutations and next-generation sequencing data to further leverage the potential of routine MRI scans to serve as “virtual biopsy” maps. In this review, we provide an introduction to radiomic and radiogenomic approaches in neuro-oncology, including a brief description of the workflow involving preprocessing, tumor segmentation, and extraction of “hand-crafted” features from the segmented region of interest, as well as identifying radiogenomic associations that could ultimately lead to the development of reliable prognostic and predictive models in neuro-oncology applications. Lastly, we discuss the promise of radiomics and radiogenomic approaches in personalizing treatment decisions in neuro-oncology, as well as the challenges with clinical adoption, which will rely heavily on their demonstrated resilience to nonstandardization in imaging protocols across sites and scanners, as well as in their ability to demonstrate reproducibility across large multi-institutional cohorts.
The Phosphate Starvation Response System: Its Role in the Regulation of Plant–Microbe Interactions
Authors: Isidra-Arellano Mariel C , Delaux Pierre-Marc , Valdés-López Oswaldo
Published: January 2021

Phosphate (Pi) deficiency is a major factor limiting plant productivity worldwide. Land plants have evolved different strategies to cope with Pi deficiency. For instance, plants activate the so-called Pi starvation response (PSR) system, which is regulated by the transcription factor Phosphate Starvation Response1 (PHR1), to adjust plant growth and metabolic activity accordingly. Additionally, land plants can also establish mutualistic associations with soil microbes able to solubilize Pi from plant-inaccessible soil complexes and to transfer it to the host plant. A growing body of evidence indicates that PHR1 and the PSR system not only regulate the plant responses to Pi deficiency in an abiotic context, but they are also crucial for plants to properly interact with beneficial soil microbes able to provide them with soluble Pi. Recent evidence indicates that PHR1 and the PSR system contribute to shaping the plant-associated microbiota through the modulation of the plant immune system. The PSR and immune system outputs are tightly integrated by PHR1. Here, we review how plant host Pi status influences the establishment of the mutualistic association with soil microbes. We also highlight the role of PHR1 and the PSR system in shaping both the root microbiome and plant responses to Pi deficiency.
Medicaid and Mortality: New Evidence From Linked Survey and Administrative Data
Authors: Miller Sarah , Johnson Norman , Wherry Laura R
Published: January 2021

We use large-scale federal survey data linked to administrative death records to investigate the relationship between Medicaid enrollment and mortality. Our analysis compares changes in mortality for near-elderly adults in states with and without Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansions. We identify adults most likely to benefit using survey information on socioeconomic status, citizenship status, and public program participation. We find that prior to the ACA expansions, mortality rates across expansion and nonexpansion states trended similarly, but beginning in the first year of the policy, there were significant reductions in mortality in states that opted to expand relative to nonexpanders. Individuals in expansion states experienced a 0.132 percentage point decline in annual mortality, a 9.4% reduction over the sample mean, as a result of the Medicaid expansions. The effect is driven by a reduction in disease-related deaths and grows over time. A variety of alternative specifications, methods of inference, placebo tests, and sample definitions confirm our main result.
Does government support of a few leading universities have a broader impact on the higher education system? Evaluation of the Russian University Excellence Initiative
Authors: Lovakov Andrey , Panova Anna , Sterligov Ivan , Yudkevich Maria
Published: January 2021

Many governments attempt to improve national higher education through the competitive support of universities. These policy approaches raise questions about the impact on the entire system—both in research and educational—of targeted support for a small number of universities. Addressing challenges in the measurement of university excellence initiatives are among the most vital topics in research evaluation due to the central roles they often play in national research and university policy efforts. Using data from the Russian University Excellence Initiative (RUEI), we measure the spillover effects of such focused support and demonstrate that a broader impact does exist. In particular, we examine the performance of higher education institutions that were not part of RUEI and were not directly supported by it. We compare the university performance in regions both with and without RUEI universities. In doing so, we measure the indirect impact of RUEI on the higher education sector at the regional level. We show a positive effect on the level of publication activity that has recently become apparent. However, there has been no effect on the share of young faculty, international collaboration in publications, or the quality of enrollment. Judging from the broader research policy\research evaluation perspective, our study sheds light on the systemic effects of excellence initiatives, which are often neglected. Besides, excellence initiatives could trigger a change in the approach to evaluating research. So government should develop measure properly, taking into account various consequences, some of which are considered in our article.
Comparison of treatments and outcomes of children with juvenile dermatomyositis followed at two European tertiary care referral centers
Authors: Varnier Giulia Camilla , Consolaro Alessandro , Maillard Susan , Pilkington Clarissa , Ravelli Angelo
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To compare the treatment approaches and disease outcomes of children with JDM followed in two European tertiary care peadiatric rheumatology centres.

Methods

The medical notes of patients with JDM seen at Istituto Giannina Gaslini (IGG) of Genoa, Italy or Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) of London, UK between January 2000 and December 2015 within 6 months after disease onset and followed for at least 6 months were reviewed. Demographic, clinical and therapeutic data were collected. At each visit, the caring physician was asked to rate the disease state subjectively.

Results

A total of 127 patients were included, 88 at GOSH and 39 at IGG. At 24 months, the median values of muscle strength and disease activity were at the normal end of the scale and around three quarters of patients were said to have inactive disease. Also, at 2 years, 38.6% and 36% of British and Italian patients, respectively, had damage. Cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, infliximab, rituximab and mycophenolate mofetil were used more frequently by UK physicians, whereas ciclosporin, intravenous immunoglobulin and hydroxychloroquine were prescribed by Italian physicians.

Conclusion

This study shows a significant difference in the choice of medications between pediatric rheumatologists practising in the two centres. Despite this, a high proportion of patients had inactive disease at 2 years and there was a low frequency of damage: modern treatments have improved outcomes.
KASP Markers Reveal Established and Novel Sources of Resistance to Pea Seedborne Mosaic Virus in Pea Genetic Resources
Authors: Swisher Grimm Kylie D. , Porter Lyndon D.
Published: January 2021

Pea seed-borne mosaic virus (PSbMV) is both seedborne and aphid-transmitted and can cause economic losses for pea (Pisum sativum L.) production by reducing yield through decreased seed weight and number. The P1 pathotype is especially virulent, affecting this important vegetable crop across the United States and internationally in regions of West Asia, North Africa, Europe, and Australia. Previously, two kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) genotyping markers (eIF4E resistant 1 and 2) were developed and validated on P. sativum accessions identifying two PSbMV pathotype P1 resistance alleles in the eukaryotic translation initiation factor gene, eIF4E. The current study utilized these novel markers to rapidly evaluate 318 genetic resource accessions maintained as part of the United States Department of Agriculture National Plant Germplasm System’s Pea Single Plant Collection (PSPC). The evaluations also included 58 commercial and other plant introduction (PI) lines that were assessed for the two eIF4E resistance alleles. All genotyping results were validated in greenhouse assays by confirmation of observable disease symptoms after inoculations and by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The eIF4E resistant 1 and 2 alleles were found in 18 accessions from the PSPC, five commercial lines, and 14 other PI accessions. A single PSPC accession showed resistance to PSbMV pathotype P1 that is believed to be a novel source of resistance based on sequencing analysis of eIF4E. Sources of resistance were identified in the PSPC and in commercial cultivars that can be introgressed into breeding lines using traditional techniques to reduce the time and cost required to generate germplasm with superior disease-resistant traits.
Names of Phytopathogenic Fungi: A Practical Guide
Authors: Crous Pedro W. , Rossman Amy Y. , Aime M. Catherine , Allen W. Cavan , Burgess Treena , Groenewald Johannes Z. , Castlebury Lisa A.
Published: January 2021

Using the correct name for phytopathogenic fungi and oomycetes is essential for communicating knowledge about species and their biology, control, and quarantine as well as for trade and research purposes. However, many plant pathogenic fungi are pleomorphic, meaning they produce different asexual (anamorph) and sexual (teleomorph) morphs in their life cycles. Therefore, more than one name has been applied to different morphs of the same species, which has confused users. The onset of DNA technologies makes it possible to connect different morphs of the same species, resulting in a move to a more natural classification system for fungi in which a single name for a genus and species can now be used. This move to a single nomenclature, coupled with the advent of molecular systematics and the introduction of polythetic taxonomic approaches, has been the main driving force for a reclassification of fungi, including pathogens. Nonetheless, finding the correct name for species remains challenging. In this article we outline a series of steps or considerations to greatly simplify this process and provide links to various online databases and resources to aid in determining the correct name. Additionally, a list of accurate names is provided for the most common genera and species of phytopathogenic fungi.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
One Crop Disease, How Many Pathogens?Podosphaera xanthiiandErysiphe vignaesp. nov. Identified as the Two Species that Cause Powdery Mildew of Mungbean (Vigna radiata) and Black Gram (V. mungo) in Australia
Authors: Kelly Lisa A. , Vaghefi Niloofar , Bransgrove Kaylene , Fechner Nigel A. , Stuart Kara , Pandey Abhay K. , Sharma Mamta , Németh Márk Z. , Liu Shu-Yan , Tang Shu-Rong , Nair Ramakrishnan M. , Douglas Colin A. , Kiss Levente
Published: January 2021

Powdery mildew is a significant threat to mungbean (Vigna radiata) and black gram (V. mungo) production across Australia and overseas. Although they have been present in Australia for at least six decades and are easily recognized in the field, the precise identification of the pathogens causing this disease has remained unclear. Our goal was to identify the powdery mildew species infecting mungbean, black gram, and wild mungbean (V. radiata ssp. sublobata) in Australia. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit sequences of the ribosomal DNA and/or morphology of 57 Australian specimens were examined. Mungbean and black gram were infected by two species: Podosphaera xanthii and a newly recognized taxon, Erysiphe vignae sp. nov. Wild mungbean was infected only with P. xanthii. Mungbean and black gram powdery mildew ITS sequences from China, India, and Taiwan revealed the presence of only P. xanthii on these crops despite controversial reports of an Erysiphe species on both crops in India. Sequence analyses indicated that the closest relative of E. vignae is E. diffusa, which infects soybean (Glycine max) and other plants. E. vignae did not infect soybean in cross-inoculation tests. In turn, E. diffusa from soybean infected black gram and provoked hypersensitive response in mungbean. The recognition of a second species, E. vignae, as another causal agent of mungbean and black gram powdery mildew in Australia may complicate plant breeding efforts and control of the disease with fungicide applications.
Establishing a Virtual Clinic for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: A Prospective Study
Authors: Murphy Evelyn P. , Fenelon Christopher , Kennedy Jim F. , O’Sullivan Michael D. , Noel Jacques , Kelly Paula M. , Moore David P. , O’Toole Patrick J.
Published: January 2021

Background:

The aim was to describe the introduction and operation of a virtual developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) clinic. Our secondary objectives were to provide an overview of DDH referral reasons, treatment outcomes, and adverse events associated with it.

Methods:

A prospective observational study involving all patients referred to the virtual DDH clinic was conducted. The clinic consultant delivered with 2 DDH clinical nurse specialists (CNS). The outcomes following virtual review include further virtual review, CNS review, consultant review or discharge. Treatment options include surveillance, brace therapy, or surgery. Efficiency and cost analysis were assessed.

Results:

Over the 3.5-year study period, 1002 patients were reviewed, of which 743 (74.2%) were female. The median age at time of referral was 7 months, (interquartile range of 5 to 11) with a median time to treatment decision of 9 days. Median waiting times from referral to treatment decision was reduced by over 70%. There were 639 virtual reviews, 186 CNS reviews, and 144 consultant reviews. The direct discharge rate was 24%. One hundred one patients (10%) had dislocated or subluxed hips at initial visit while 26.3% had radiographically normal hips. Over the study period 704 face to face (F2F) visits were avoided. Cost reductions of €170 were achieved per patient, with €588,804 achieved in total. Eighteen parents (1.8%) opted for F2F instead of virtual review. There were no unscheduled rereferrals or recorded adverse events.

Conclusion:

We report the outcomes of the first prospective virtual DDH clinic. This clinic has demonstrated efficiency and cost-effectiveness, without reported adverse outcomes to date. It is an option to provide consultant delivered DDH care, while reducing F2F consults.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Ultrasound-guided anterior iliopsoas muscle space block versus posterior lumbar plexus block in hip surgery in the elderly
Authors: Dong Jing , Zhang Yu , Chen Xiaoxiao , Ni Wenzong , Yan Hai , Liu Yupu , Shi Haibo , Jiang Wei , Zhao Daqiang , Xu Tao
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound-guided posterior lumbar plexus block is widely used for hip fracture surgery but it requires a change of position, which may be painful.

OBJECTIVES

Our primary objective was to describe a new technique, the anterior iliopsoas muscle space block, which can be performed in the supine position, and to test the hypothesis that its analgesia for hip surgery was similar to that of the traditional posterior lumbar plexus block.

DESIGN

Randomised, double-blind study.

SETTING

Shanghai 6th People's Hospital, China, from February to August 2019.

PATIENTS

Forty-eight patients scheduled for unilateral hip fracture surgery were included in the study. The exclusion criteria were infection at the puncture site, history of hip surgery, pre-existing neurological deficits of the lower extremity, contraindications for regional anaesthesia, allergy to local anaesthetics, coagulopathy, abuse of medicine or alcohol, or daily consumption of analgesics.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomised to receive a lateral sacral plexus block with either an anterior iliopsoas muscle space block or a posterior lumbar plexus block, using 0.33% ropivacaine (30 ml each).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome was verbal numerical scale (VNS) pain intensity 1 h after surgery in the postanesthesia care unit, and the secondary outcome was the dose of intra-operative fentanyl. The differences in VNS scores and fentanyl use between the groups were analysed.

RESULTS

Based on previous work, we considered a difference (confidence interval [CI]) of 1.6 on the VNS to be significant. The median [IQR] pain scores in postanesthesia care unit were similar in the anterior 0 [0 to 3] and posterior groups 1.5 [0 to 3]. The median scores for intra-operative fentanyl use were similar in the anterior 20 [10 to 42.5] μg and posterior groups 15 [0 to 50] μg (P = 0.34). The difference in the median pain score at-rest was NS: anterior group 0.5 [0 to 5], posterior group 0 [0 to 2], median difference −0.5 (95% CI −2 to 0). The median post to preblock difference in VNS was higher in the anterior −0.5 [−2 to 0] than in the posterior group 0 [−1.25 to 0], median difference 0.5 (95% CI 0 to 1). The median block onset time was longer in the anterior 11 [6 to 14.25] min than in the posterior group 6 [4.75 to 8] min (P = 0.002), median difference −5 (95% CI −7 to −1).

CONCLUSION

The anterior iliopsoas muscle space block had the same effect as the posterior lumbar plexus block on peri-operative analgesia for hip surgery, but with a longer onset time. Therefore, anterior iliopsoas muscle space block can be recommended as a routine technique for hip and lower limb procedures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

http://www.chictr.org.cn identifier: ChiCTR1900021214.
Classification algorithm for the International Classification of Diseases-11 chronic pain classification: development and results from a preliminary pilot evaluation
Authors: Korwisi Beatrice , Hay Ginea , Attal Nadine , Aziz Qasim , Bennett Michael I. , Benoliel Rafael , Cohen Milton , Evers Stefan , Giamberardino Maria Adele , Kaasa Stein , Kosek Eva , Lavand'homme Patricia , Nicholas Michael , Perrot Serge , Schug Stephan , Smith Blair H. , Svensson Peter , Vlaeyen Johan W.S. , Wang Shuu-Jiun , Treede Rolf-Detlef , Rief Winfried , Barke Antonia
Published: January 2021

The International Classification of Diseases-11 (ICD-11) chronic pain classification includes about 100 chronic pain diagnoses on different diagnostic levels. Each of these diagnoses requires specific operationalized diagnostic criteria to be present. The classification comprises more than 200 diagnostic criteria. The aim of the Classification Algorithm for Chronic Pain in ICD-11 (CAL-CP) is to facilitate the use of the classification by guiding users through these diagnostic criteria. The diagnostic criteria were ordered hierarchically and visualized in accordance with the standards defined by the Society for Medical Decision Making Committee on Standardization of Clinical Algorithms. The resulting linear decision tree underwent several rounds of iterative checks and feedback by its developers, as well as other pain experts. A preliminary pilot evaluation was conducted in the context of an ecological implementation field study of the classification itself. The resulting algorithm consists of a linear decision tree, an introduction form, and an appendix. The initial decision trunk can be used as a standalone algorithm in primary care. Each diagnostic criterion is represented in a decision box. The user needs to decide for each criterion whether it is present or not, and then follow the respective yes or no arrows to arrive at the corresponding ICD-11 diagnosis. The results of the pilot evaluation showed good clinical utility of the algorithm. The CAL-CP can contribute to reliable diagnoses by structuring a way through the classification and by increasing adherence to the criteria. Future studies need to evaluate its utility further and analyze its impact on the accuracy of the assigned diagnoses.
Aerobic fitness influences cardiac autonomic modulation in police officers regardless of specific duties
Authors: da Silva Santos Patrícia Marina , Novelli Fabiula Isoton , Araújo Jaqueline Alves , Tamanho Susane , Cambri Lucieli Teresa
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study assesses whether the specific duties of a police officer or aerobic fitness influences blood pressure (BP) and cardiac autonomic modulation.

Method

Police officers (n = 161) were divided into administrative and operational (34.72 ± 5.98 vs. 33.95 ± 5.61 years old) groups, and subsequently divided into lower and higher aerobic fitness (35.49 ± 4.32 vs. 45.39 ± 13.10 mL·kg−1·min−1).

Results

Higher SBP (125 ± 10 vs. 121 ± 10 mmHg; P = 0.02) and aerobic fitness (42.10 ± 5.57 vs. 38.51 ± 6.67 mL·kg−1·min−1; P < 0.01) were observed in the operational group. On the other hand, lower obesity indicators and higher heart rate variability (HRV) indices (SD1: 26.67 ± 14.19 vs. 20.98 ± 9.12; SD2: 54.04 ± 19.81 vs. 47.32 ± 18.85; RMSSD: 36.50 ± 18.78 vs. 29.90 ± 12.51; SDNN: 42.80 ± 16.05 vs. 36.85 ± 14.23 ms; pNN50: 17.32 ± 17.54 vs. 10.60 ± 10.77 %) were observed in the higher aerobic fitness group (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

In summary, although the operational occupation had shown a negative influence on SBP, the HRV was not impaired in police officers. Additionally, aerobic fitness was related to differences in obesity indicators and HRV regardless of police duties. Our findings encourage the inclusion of BP and HRV measurements in routine health checks to screen for early hypertension and autonomic dysfunction.