bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Novel Index to Characterise Arterial Dynamics Using Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Ward Joel , Cheng Xinghao , Xiao Yingyi , Lapolla Pierfrancesco , Chandrashekar Anirudh , Handa Ashok , Cleveland Robin A , Lee Regent
Published: November 2020

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are associated with systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. We previously reported flow mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery as a predictor of AAA growth. We hence hypothesised that other physical characteristics of the brachial artery correlate with AAA growth. Using a prospectively cohort of AAA patients, we devised a ‘brachial artery relaxation index’ (BARI) and examined its role as a biomarker for AAA growth. However, no correlation between BARI and future aneurysm growth was observed (p=0.5). Therefore, our investigations did not substantiate the hypothesis that other physical characteristics of the brachial artery predicts AAA growth.
Popularizing recombinant baculovirus-derived OneBac system for scaling-up production of all recombinant adeno-associated virus vector serotypes
Authors: Wu Yang , Han Zengpeng , Duan Mingzhu , Jiang Liangyu , Tian Tiantian , Jin Dingyu , Wang Qitian , Xu Fuqiang
Published: November 2020

Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) has been widely used as an efficient transgenic vector in biomedical research, as well as gene therapy. Serotype-associated transduction efficiency, tissue- or cell-type tropism and immunological profile are major considerations in the various applications of rAAVs. There are increasing needs for different serotypes of rAAV, either naturally isolated or artificially engineered. However, affordable and scalable production of a desired serotype of rAAV remains very difficult, especially for researchers lacking relevant experience. On the basis of our previously established single recombinant baculovirus expression vector (BEV)-derived OneBac system, we have optimized the process and expanded the rAAV production range to the full range of serotypes rAAV1-13. Firstly, the AAVCapgene was optimized to translate by ribosome leaky scanning and the gene of interest (GOI) was cloned into the pFD/Cap-(ITR-GOI)-Rep2 shutte plasmid. Following the classical Bac-to-Bac method, sufficient BEV stock containing all rAAV packaging elements can be quickly obtained. Finally, we can repeatedly scale up production of rAAVs in one week by using a single BEV to infect suspension-cultured Sf9 cells. The rAAV1-13 show relatively high yields ranging from 5×104to 4×105VG/cell. More than 1×1015VG purified rAAVs can be easily obtained from 5 L suspension-cultured Sf9 cells. As expected, rAAV serotypes 1-13 show different potencies forin vitrotransduction and cell-type tropisms. In summary, the single BEV-derived OneBac system should prove popular for laboratory scaling-up production of any serotype of rAAV.
Microvilli-derived Extracellular Vesicles Govern Morphogenesis inDrosophilawing epithelium
Authors: Hurbain Ilse , Macé Anne-Sophie , Romao Maryse , Sengmanivong Lucie , Ruel Laurent , Basto Renata , Thérond Pascal P. , Raposo Graça , D’Angelo Gisela
Published: November 2020

The regulation and coordination of developmental processes involves the secretion of morphogens and membrane carriers, including extracellular vesicles, which facilitate their transport over long distance. The long-range activity of the Hedgehog morphogen is conveyed by extracellular vesicles. However, the site and the molecular basis of their biogenesis remains unknown. By combining fluorescence and electron microscopy combined with genetics and cell biology approaches, we investigated the origin and the cellular mechanisms underlying extracellular vesicle biogenesis, and their contribution to Drosophila wing disc development, exploiting Hedgehog as a long-range morphogen. We show that microvilli of Drosophila wing disc epithelium are the site of generation of small extracellular vesicles that transport Hedgehog across the tissue. This process requires the Prominin-like protein, whose activity, together with interacting cytoskeleton components and lipids, is critical for maintaining microvilli integrity and function in secretion. Our results provide the first evidence that microvilli-derived extracellular vesicles contribute to Hedgehog long-range signaling activity highlighting their physiological significance in tissue developmentin vivo.
Discovery of five HIV nucleoside analog reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) as potent inhibitors against the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of SARS-CoV and 2019-nCoV
Authors: Sun Jialei
Published: November 2020

The outbreak of SARS in 2002-2003 caused by SARS-CoV, and the pandemic of COVID-19 in 2020 caused by 2019-nCoV (SARS-CoV-2), have threatened human health globally and raised the urgency to develop effective antivirals against the viruses. In this study, we expressed and purified the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) nsp12 of SARS-CoV and developed a primer extension assay for the evaluation of nsp12 activity. We found that nsp12 could efficiently extend single-stranded RNA, while having low activity towards double-stranded RNA. Nsp12 required a catalytic metal (Mg2+or Mn2+) for polymerase activity and the activity was also K+-dependent, while Na+promoted pyrophosphorylation, the reverse process of polymerization. To identify antivirals against nsp12, a competitive assay was developed containing 4 natural rNTPs and a nucleotide analog, and the inhibitory effects of 24 FDA-approved nucleotide analogs were evaluated in their corresponding active triphosphate forms. Ten of the analogs, including 2 HIV NRTIs, could inhibit the RNA extension of nsp12 by more than 40%. The 10 hits were verified which showed dose-dependent inhibition. In addition, the 24 nucleotide analogs were screened on SARS-CoV primase nsp8 which revealed stavudine and remdesivir were specific inhibitors to nsp12. Furthermore, the 2 HIV NRTIs were evaluated on 2019-nCoV nsp12 which showed inhibition as well. Then we expanded the evaluation to all 8 FDA-approved HIV NRTIs and discovered 5 of them, tenofovir, stavudine, abacavir, zidovudine and zalcitabine, could inhibit the RNA extension by nsp12 of SARS-CoV and 2019-nCoV. In conclusion, 5 FDA-approved HIV NRTIs inhibited the RNA extension by nsp12 and were promising candidates for the treatment of SARS and COVID-19.
Identification of compounds enhancingAqp4stop codon readthrough
Authors: Sapkota D. , Dougherty J.D.
Published: November 2020

An unusual stop codon readthrough event generates a conserved C-terminally elongated variant of the water channel protein Aquaporin 4 (AQP4). In the brain, AQP4 is astrocyte-specific, required for normal functioning of the glymphatic system, and involved in the clearance of the Alzheimer’s associated protein Amyloid beta. Further, the readthrough variant is localized exclusively perivascularly, and the perivascular pool of AQP4 is reduced in Alzheimer’s and several other neurological diseases. However, there are currently no means of increasing or restoring the perivascular pool AQP4. Here we identify a compound that can enhanceAqp4stop codon readthrough. We screened 2600 compounds, mostly approved drugs and pharmacologically active natural compounds, using a luciferase reporter system. 28 candidate lead compounds were then subjected to a variety of secondary screening steps using orthogonal reporter systems and characterizing dose-response activities. Finally, we tested the top compounds’ abilities to generate readthrough of the endogenousAqp4transcript, identifying Apigenin as an enhancer of this biological phenomenon. This compound can allow modulation of readthrough in experimental systems, mechanistic studies of programmed readthrough, and suggests the potential for modulating Alzheimer’s disease through pharmacological enhancement of perivascular AQP4.
Epigenetic regulation of epithelial dectin-1 through an IL-33-STAT3 axis in allergic disease
Authors: Yong Hwan Mee , Gour Naina , Sharma Deepika , Khalil Syed Muaz , Lane Andrew P. , Lajoie Stephane
Published: November 2020

Allergic diseases arise in susceptible individuals in part because of decrements in protective pathways. The mechanism by which these anti-inflammatory molecules become repressed remains unclear. We have previously reported that epithelial dectin-1 prevents aberrant type 2 responses and is downregulated in the epithelium of allergic patients. Here we report that dectin-1 is constitutively expressed by the respiratory epithelium in humans, and that IL-33 specifically acts as a repressor of dectin-1. Mechanistically, this occurs via IL-33-dependent STAT3 activation and the subsequent repression of the dectin-1 gene, CLEC7A. We have identified a novel enhancer region upstream of the proximal promoter of CLEC7A that is only accessible in epithelial cells, but not in hematopoietic cells. Epigenetic repression of CLEC7A through this newly identified locus, downstream of an aberrant IL-33-STAT3 axis, occurs in the epithelium of allergic individuals. Collectively, our data identify a mechanism of epigenetic fine-tuning of dectin-1 expression in epithelial cells that may participate in allergenicity.
Servant leadership and followers' creativity: does climate for creativity matter?
Authors: Aboramadan Mohammed
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This research proposes, building on social exchange theory and the componential theory of creativity, a model of servant leadership to investigate its effect on followers' creativity through the intervening mechanism of climate for creativity in the hospitality industry, operating in a non-Western context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study predicted that climate for creativity will play a significant intervening role in the servant leadership–creativity relationship. The study’s data were collected from 232 employees working in 70 Palestinian hotels. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) analyses along with techniques used to reduce common method bias.

Findings

The results revealed the significance of climate for creativity as a partial mediator in the relationship between servant leadership and followers' creativity.

Practical implications

The results might be useful for hotel managers in the context of utilizing servant leadership roles for fostering a creative climate. They might, therefore, consider placing servant leaders as a recruitment agenda priority.

Originality/value

This research is novel in three ways. First, its aim is to enrich the empirical literature on servant leadership, which is still in a maturity stage. Second, even with the research studies that are available, limited analysis is found on how servant leadership can stimulate employees' behaviors in the hospitality industry. Third, the study has been conducted in a non-Western context, in contrast to most servant leadership research studies being carried out in Western countries.
The need for and benefits of buildability analysis: Nigeria as a case study
Authors: Osuizugbo Innocent Chigozie
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Buildability analysis has a potential of improving the outcomes of construction projects. However, the usage of buildability analysis is not well pronounced within the construction sector. This study aims to provide understanding of the concept of buildability analysis with the view to predicting the future stance for buildability analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a survey research method. Questionnaires were administered to purposively selected group of construction professionals working in Nigeria. A total of 82 questionnaires were administered among the sampled respondents, out of which a total of 51 (62.2%) were adequately filled and returned. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings

The results revealed inability of the designers and constructors to have a common upstanding of the entire construction process, fragmented nature of the construction industry and poor correlation between design and construction as the most essential needs for buildability analysis. On the benefits of buildability analysis, the results showed increase in efficiency, save wasteful efforts and quality improvement as the most significant ones. In addition, the results from the study revealed that there is a statistically significant difference in some of the needs for and benefits of buildability analysis among the survey participants.

Originality/value

The study identified three future stances for buildability analysis to include building unity, efficient and effective construction and high competition. Framework for buildability analysis was developed aimed at providing guidance to professionals in achieving enhanced project production information. The findings provide in-depth insight of the needs for and benefits of buildability analysis that can inform professionals in the construction industry to adopt buildability analysis programme as a lasting solution to most design challenges and buildability problems confronting the sector.
Sport business models: a stakeholder optimization approach
Authors: Pittz Thomas , Bendickson Joshua S. , Cowden Birton J. , Davis Phillip E.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Owners of the US-based sport teams are seeing consistent gains on their financial investments, no matter the success of their teams on the playing field or their impact on the surrounding community. Sports teams are a part of an ecosystem comprised of primary and secondary stakeholders. The authors explore this phenomenon using a stakeholder perspective to understand how different business models and ownership structures optimize stakeholder value.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ an evaluative conceptual approach to examine the dominant model in the US, European ownership structures and public-private partnerships (PPPs). T finalize these comparisons by exploring a fourth business model and ownership structure – a relatively unique option in the US deployed by the Green Bay Packers – which we refer to as the maximized value partnership (MVP). These comparisons are followed by practical advice for owners in regard to these governance mechanisms.

Findings

The MVP ownership model has the potential to level the playing field between public and private actors. This potential is realized by fusing some of the best practices from European football clubs, in particular aspects of the stock market and supporter trust models.

Originality/value

By evaluating the most common ownership structures for sports teams, t provide an alternative model as well as practical advice for owners.
The individual’s role in cybercrime prevention: internal spheres of protection and our ability to safeguard them
Authors: Kikerpill Kristjan
Published: November 2020

Purpose

As a well-known social institution, crime prevention has traditionally been in the purview of public authorities. However, the ceaseless increase in the use of online resources and governments’ responsibilisation approach to cybercrime prevention has created an ecosystem, which necessitates the empowerment of individuals. By introducing the concept of internal spheres of protection, the purpose of this paper is to show how traditionally public responsibilities require increased facilitation by individuals to adequately safeguard what they value.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a brief conceptual paper, which recasts the individual’s role in cybercrime prevention through a critique of the routine activity theory (Cohen and Felson, 1979) and explains how responsibilisation (Garland, 1996) has created an unavoidable need to provide individuals with the knowledge and tools required to avoid online victimisation.

Findings

In the context of cybercrime, criminological theories that are limited in considering the individual both as the target of crime and the person likeliest to prevent it are quickly becoming outdated. Public authorities either cannot intervene or are moving away from intervening on citizens’ behalf to effectively stymie the pressure from cybercriminals. Thus, there is a need of an approach that starts with individuals and their value-based motivations.

Originality/value

The concept of internal spheres of protection is a novel way of looking at cybercrime prevention. The internal spheres are based on individuals’ values, and the value of security in particular, and take cyber-knowledge as a point of departure towards safeguarding such values, i.e. through risk-decreasing actions and the use of relevant tools.
Students' intention to adopt e-government learning services: a developing country perspective
Authors: Al-Omairi Laila , Al-Samarraie Hosam , Alzahrani Ahmed Ibrahim , Alalwan Nasser
Published: November 2020

Purpose

In any developing country, the critical benefits for ensuring proper utilization of e-government learning services have basically emerged from the integration of underlying processes – not only across different levels of government but also across different functions and agencies. The literature showed a notable lack of research to underline the limited use of e-government learning services in a university setting. Therefore, this study was conducted to examine students' intention to adopt e-government learning services in a developing country. Precisely, the existent to which reputation, social influence, information quality and system quality of e-government learning services would influence students' trust, perceived usefulness and perceived learning values was investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect from these variables on students' intention to use e-government learning services was also investigated. A total of 406 questionnaires were collected and analyzed using partial least squares (PLS) modeling.

Findings

The results showed varying relationships between the study's variables. It is anticipated that understanding these relationships can predict future learning trends of e-government learning services use among university students, thus helping decision makers plan ahead, prioritize tasks and make better decisions.

Originality/value

Knowledge about students' intention to use e-government learning services is even useful for the implementation of other services by higher education institutions. This study also offers some implications for practitioners and researchers concerned about the application of e-government in students' learning development.
“Through the looking glass: envisioning new library technologies” pandemic response technologies: tracking technologies and artificial intelligence
Authors: Fernandez Peter
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on tracking technologies and artificial intelligence, two technologies many of us carry as part of our smartphones every day in the context of the 2020 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This column is part of a series using examples and headlines generated by this unique pandemic to explore larger technological trends and to provide a glimpse into the future of these underlying technologies.

Findings

Looking ahead, it is clear that the current pandemic has heightened the value and importance of these technologies, accelerating existing trends and heightening the importance for information professionals to understand their strengths and weaknesses.

Originality/value

This column will help information professionals have the context they need to understand these technologies as they evolve and enable them to prepare their organizations and communities to effectively use, promote and develop policies to deal with them. Once a technology has been integrated into our lives, its impact can feel invisible, regardless of its impact. Over time, as the technology continues to improve and change, those evolutions may remain unseen. Yet, extraordinary circumstances, such as a global pandemic, can provide a new lens for understanding these underlying technologically evolutionary trends. This is particularly true if the technology interacts with our lives in novel ways.
(Re)discovering social identity theory: an agenda for multinational enterprise internalization theory
Authors: Raskovic Matevz , Takacs-Haynes Katalin
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Firm internalization is a central concept within the business strategy literature, as part of the broader social sciences. The purpose of this paper is to show how and where MNE internalization theory can benefit from a social identity theory (SIT) perspective to better understand 21st-century multinational enterprises (MNEs).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a review and future research agenda for the use of SIT related to MNE internalization theory. The authors complement an evolutionary review of SIT literature with a systematic bibliometric analysis identifying specific thematic gaps. Extending Buckley and Casson’s review of and future research agenda for MNE internalization theory, the authors propose three specific future research directions along with eight guiding research questions.

Findings

International business (IB) scholars are familiar with limited aspects of SIT and apply it only in certain research areas, mainly connected to human resource management and leadership, organizational identity and work-related outcomes or international marketing. Strategic management and strategy-oriented IB scholars are less familiar with SIT, despite growing interest in MNE micro-foundations and decision-making under uncertainty.

Originality/value

The authors position SIT as a natural meta-theoretical fit to MNE internalization theory. By providing a future research agenda along with eight supporting research questions, the authors help to advance the MNE internalization theory by linking individual, group and intergroup perspectives against a more socially nuanced, interactionist and dynamic view of MNEs and their decision-making.
Mandatory vs voluntary exercise on non-financial reporting: does a normative/coercive isomorphism facilitate an increase in quality?
Authors: Carungu Jonida , Di Pietra Roberto , Molinari Matteo
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This paper aims at investigating the quality of non-financial reporting (NFR) in light of Directive no. 2014/95/EU. Specifically, it focuses on the quality of NFR in Italian companies, as required by Legislative Decree no. 254/2016.

Design/methodology/approach

The method used to develop the analysis is mainly qualitative. A content analysis of 184 non-financial reports (NFRs) was conducted on a sample of 92 companies that have been previously involved in the process of NFR on a voluntary basis. Then, a longitudinal analysis was carried out to assess the quality of the NFR conducted from a voluntary to a mandatory basis.

Findings

This study shows that the quality of NFR does not increase when moving from a voluntary to a mandatory basis, especially for 25% of the companies that publish supplementary sustainability reports and/or plans. This result demonstrates that preparers may perceive mandatory NFR as a comprehensive best practice to adequately report their social, economic and environmental performance.

Originality/value

The contribution of this research is threefold. Firstly, it contributes to the social and environmental accounting literature that focuses on NFR quality assessment. Secondly, it contributes to the literature that emphasizes the role of mimetic, coercive and normative isomorphism mechanisms on accounting systems and reporting practices. Thirdly, it contributes to the research gaps for academics highlighted by previous literature on mandatory corporate reporting as a consequence of normative requirements and on the relationship between regulation and mimetic, coercive and normative isomorphic mechanisms within organizations.
Preparation and characterization of self-cross-linking long fluorocarbon polyacrylate latex modified by silane cross-linker
Authors: Shao Tantan , Chen Xiaolong , Chen Lijun
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Silane cross-linkers have been used to strengthen the mechanical stabilities and friction resistance of plastic products. Therefore, the effect of silane cross-linkers on latex has been studied through preparing modified self-cross-linking long fluorocarbon polyacrylate latex. In this paper, nonionic surfactant alcohol ether glycoside (AEG1000) and anionic polymerizable surfactant 1-allyloxy-3-(4-nonylphenol)-2-propanol polyoxyethylene (10) ether ammonium sulfate (DNS-86) acted as mixed emulsifier and 3-(methacryloyloxy) propyltrimethoxysilane (KH-570) and bis (2-ethylhexyl) maleate (DOM) were used as functional monomers.

Design/methodology/approach

The modified acrylate polymer latex was synthesized through the semi-continuous seeded emulsion polymerization with methyl methacrylate (MMA), butyl acrylate (BA), dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate (DFMA) and hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA) as main monomers. Potassium persulfate (KPS) was applied to initiate polymerization reaction, nonionic surfactant AEG1000 and DNS-86 acted as emulsifier, KH-570 and DOM were used as functional monomers, respectively.

Findings

The optimum conditions of synthesizing the modified latex were the following. The mass ratio of monomers containing MMA, BA, DFMA, HPMA, KH-570 and DOM was 13.58:13.58:0.90:1.20:0.15:0.60, the usage of initiator KPS was 0.5% of the total weight of monomers and the amount of emulsifier was 7% of all monomers with AEG1000:DNS-86 = 1:1. The results indicated that the conversion of monomer was 99% and the coagulation was about 2.0%.

Originality/value

The resultant latex was modified silane cross-linker KH-570 and DOM, which positively affected the comprehensive properties of latex and its film. Apart from this, the novel mixed emulsifier was used to improve the size and distribution of latex particles and reduce environmental problems caused by the use of emulsifiers.
Redirecting resources to promote post-pandemic growth
Authors: Bieck Christian , Marshall Anthony
Published: November 2020

Purpose

A recent IBM Institute of Business Value (IBV) global survey of 3,450 business leaders, conducted during the full force of the pandemic, explored which business capabilities executives are prioritizing, and how they ranked familiar concerns: cost management and cash flow management. This article urges that cost cutting should be viewed as a mechanism to redirect resources to enterprise transformation investments.

Design/methodology/approach

Article warns that an organization that wants to cut costs and not invest in transformation does not effectively serve an environment is which transformation is a mandate.

Findings

In the course of the pandemic crisis that disrupted supply chains, executives have realized an underappreciated aspect of ownership: it increases independence and buffers against outside shocks.

Practical implications

A central theme in the search for cost efficiency is the question of investment and ownership, or capital expenditure (CapEx), versus operating expenditure (OpEx).

Originality/value

In a reversal of the OpEx shift paradigm, executives state they plan to increase CapEx and decrease OpEx. Organizations with a high agility score invest almost one percentage point more in CapEx. Also, an increase in CapEx has a small but statistically significant effect on revenue growth.
Evaluating the impact of psychological entitlement on cyberloafing: the mediating role of perceived organizational justice
Authors: Rahaei Arefeh , Salehzadeh Reza
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of psychological entitlement and perceived organizational justice on cyberloafing.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a cross-sectional research design based on a questionnaire method was used to collect the required data from a sample of 226 employees working at selected universities in the city of Isfahan, Iran. To test the research hypotheses, structural equation modeling was used.

Findings

According to the findings, psychological entitlement could have a significant impact on perceived organizational justice and consequently perceived organizational justice could significantly influence cyberloafing. Moreover, psychological entitlement could significantly influence cyberloafing and finally, psychological entitlement could have a significant effect on cyberloafing through perceived organizational justice.

Originality/value

This research provides valuable insight for studying the relationship among psychological entitlement, perceived organizational justice and cyberloafing.
Comparative effect of probiotic and paraprobiotic addition on rheological and sensory properties of yoghurt
Authors: Molaee Parvarei Mitra , Fazeli Mohammad R. , Mortazavian Amir M. , Sarem Nezhad Solmaz , Mortazavi Seyed Ali
Published: November 2020

Yoghurt was produced using killed cells of Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCCSD 5221 and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB‐12. The rheological and sensory properties of the yoghurt were investigated at the end of the fermentation. The results revealed that the samples made with killed cells gave the lowest storage modulus, loss modulus, stress crossover point and loss tangent. The frequency‐sweep of yoghurt samples containing paraprobiotics added before fermentation showed the highest correlation coefficient. In the case of sensory assessment, significant differences were indicated among treatments. Adding killed cells of B. animalis subsp. lactis BB‐12 before fermentation produced yoghurt with the highest total score, whereas samples containing killed cells of L. acidophilus ATCCSD 5221 and B. animalis subsp. lactis BB‐12 added before fermentation exhibited the lowest total score.
The impact of patient‐centered medical home certification on quality of care for patients with diabetes
Authors: Carlin Caroline S. , Peterson Kevin , Solberg Leif I.
Published: November 2020

Objective

To identify the impact of changes surrounding certification as a patient‐centered medical home (PCMH) on outcomes for patients with diabetes.

Study Setting

Minnesota legislation established mandatory quality reporting for patients with diabetes and statewide standards for certification as a PCMH. Patient‐level quality reporting data (2008‐2018) were used to study the impact of transition to a PCMH.

Study Design

Achievement of Minnesota's optimal diabetes care standard—in aggregate and by component—was modeled for adult patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes as a function of time relative to the year the patient's primary care practice achieved PCMH certification. Patients from uncertified practices were used to control for general trend. Practice‐level random effects captured time‐invariant characteristics of practices and the practices’ average patient.

Data Collection

Electronic health record data were submitted by 695 Minnesota practices capturing components of the quality standard: blood sugar control, cholesterol control, blood pressure control, nonsmoking status, and use of aspirin.

Principal Findings

The first cohort of practices achieving PCMH certification (July 2010‐June 2014) showed statistically insignificant changes in optimal care. The next cohort of practices (July 2014‐June 2018) achieved larger, clinically meaningful increases in quality of care during the time prior to and following certification. Specifically, this second cohort of practices was estimated to achieve a 12.8 percentage‐point improvement (P < .001) in the predicted probability of providing optimal diabetes care over the period spanning 3 years before to 3 years after certification.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the initial cohort of certified practices was already performing at a high level before certification, perhaps requiring little change in their operations to achieve PCMH certification. The second cohort, on the other hand, made meaningful, quality‐improving changes in the years surrounding certification. Differences by cohort may partially explain the inconsistent PCMH impacts found in the literature.
Identification of triglycerides in liquid and fire debris samples by triple quadrupole liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Bryant Craig M. , Warnica Josephine M. , Chen Rachel , Shepard Cara
Published: November 2020

Analysis of fire debris for triglyceride‐based oils may be of interest to fire investigators depending on the circumstances of a particular fire. Such circumstances include accidental or intentionally set cooking oil fires, fires involving triglyceride‐based “eco” fire log products, and spontaneous ignition fires that involve drying oils on rags. Many forensic laboratories utilize gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry following fatty acid methyl esterification to identify triglyceride residues in fire debris extracts. This study explores an alternate approach, which involves the identification of intact triglycerides by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). 52 triglyceride‐based oils and fats (22 different types) were analyzed by LC‐MS/MS using multiple reaction monitoring to investigate variation in triglyceride content between different brands and types of oil and fat. Selected oils were then degraded by exposure to air, typical cooking conditions and/or fire conditions to simulate samples that are typically encountered by Fire Debris Analysts in fire investigation cases. Triglycerides were identified in all pristine and degraded oil samples, and relative peak areas for degraded samples often resembled their pristine oil counterparts. In samples where relative peak area differences were noted, more predominant degradation was observed for triglycerides with a higher proportion of poly‐unsaturated fatty acids. Variability in triglyceride content between different brands and types of oil are discussed, as well as factors affecting the identification of triglyceride peaks in commercial oil samples, as compared to the corresponding analytical standard.
Cricopharyngeal bar and dermatomyositis: A cause of rapidly progressive dysphagia
Authors: Adams Cameron Louis , Lohan Siobhan , Bruce Alana , Kamalaraj Narainraj , Gunaratne Shyamini , White Ray
Published: November 2020

Background

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are immune‐mediated conditions that affect striated muscle, and are frequently associated with dysphagia. Dysphagia in these cases can be due to weakness of the muscles involved in swallowing or the presence of restrictive pharyngeal defects, such as cricopharyngeal bars. Treatment of dysphagia in IIM revolves around immunosuppressive therapies, and procedures to disrupt cricopharyngeus muscle when immunosuppressive therapies are unsuccessful.

Case report

A 73‐year‐old female presented with rapidly progressive proximal muscle weakness and dysphagia to the point she could not swallow liquids or solids. She had a rash over the extensor surfaces of the limbs, and periorbital‐edema. Her creatine kinase was elevated, and skin biopsy showed an interface inflammatory reaction; however, myositis line assay revealed no autoantibodies, and a muscle biopsy was unremarkable. She was diagnosed with dermatomyositis with life‐threatening dysphagia, and was admitted to our institution and treated with corticosteroids, methotrexate and intravenous immunoglobulin. A videofluoroscopic swallowing study revealed a large esophageal protrusion at the level of C5‐C6, which was thought to be consistent with a cricopharyngeal bar, with large boluses unable to pass, leading to aspiration. After 10 weeks of treatment, the cricopharyngeal bar remained present, but swallowing had improved to the point that she was successfully swallowing all consistencies.

Conclusion

Dysphagia associated with IIM can be multifactorial, and can be due to the involvement of the muscles of swallowing in the inflammatory process, or due to restrictive pharyngeal defects, and determination of the cause of dysphagia can assist with management.
The dopaminergic alterations induced by 4‐F‐PCP and 4‐Keto‐PCP may enhance their drug‐induced rewarding and reinforcing effects: Implications for abuse
Authors: Ortiz Darlene Mae , Custodio Raly James Perez , Abiero Arvie , Botanas Chrislean Jun , Sayson Leandro Val , Kim Mikyung , Lee Hyun Jun , Kim Hee Jin , Jeong Youngdo , Yoon Sulmin , Lee Yong Sup , Cheong Jae Hoon
Published: November 2020

Novel psychoactive substances remain the popular recreational drugs of use over the years. They continue to bypass government restrictions due to their synthesis and modifications. Recent additions to the lists are the 4‐F‐PCP and 4‐Keto‐PCP, analogs of the drug phencyclidine (PCP) known to induce adverse effects and abuse potential. However, studies on the abuse potential of 4‐F‐PCP and 4‐Keto‐PCP remain scarce. The rewarding and reinforcing effects of the drugs were assessed using conditioned place preference (CPP), self‐administration, and locomotor sensitization tests. Dopamine (DA) receptor antagonists (SCH23390 and haloperidol) were administered during CPP to evaluate the involvement of the mesolimbic dopaminergic system. DA‐related protein expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) was measured. Additionally, phosphorylated cyclic‐adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein (AMP) response element‐binding (p‐CREB) protein, deltaFosB (∆FosB), and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein levels in the NAcc were measured to assess the addiction neural plasticity effect of the drugs. Both 4‐F‐PCP and 4‐Keto‐PCP‐induced CPP and self‐administration; however, only 4‐F‐PCP elicited locomotor sensitization. Treatment with DA receptor antagonists (SH23390 and haloperidol) inhibited the 4‐F‐ and 4‐Keto‐induced CPP. Both substances altered the levels of DA receptor D1 (DRD1), thyroxine hydroxylase (TH), DA receptor D2 (DRD2), p‐CREB, ∆FosB, and BDNF. The results suggest that 4‐F‐PCP and 4‐Keto‐PCP may induce abuse potential in rodents via alterations in dopaminergic system accompanied by addiction neural plasticity.
Can the use of diagnostic and prognostic categorisation tailor the need for assisted reproductive technology in infertile couples?
Authors: Song Zheng , Li Wentao , O’leary Sean , Roberts Bronwen , Alvino Helen , Tremellen Kelton , Gadalla Moustafa A. , Wang Rui , Mol Ben W.
Published: November 2020

Background

The complications associated with in vitro fertilisation (IVF) for both the offspring and mother, and its high cost make it essential to tailor the technology to those infertile couples who truly benefit from it.

Aims

To determine whether a simple prognostic algorithm could discriminate between couples who require immediate fertility treatments and couples in whom less invasive strategies should be offered first.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, couples were classified into six groups based on the medical necessity of IVF and their prognosis for natural conception: (i) tubal/severe semen factor mandating immediate IVF due to the very low chance of natural conception; (ii) pure anovulation infertility; (iii) female age ≥39 years; and (iv) unexplained/mild male infertility (no indication for immediate treatment) with (4A) good, (4B) moderate or (4C) poor prognosis of natural conception, as per an existing, validated prognostic model. For each group, we constructed Kaplan‐Meier curves to measure natural conception and the effect of fertility treatment.

Results

The 12 months cumulative live birth rate for couples with unexplained or mild male infertility and poor prognosis increased from 1% without treatment to 35% after treatment (P < 0.001). In contrast, couples with good prognosis experienced a statistically insignificant increase in their cumulative live birth rate from 40% to 56% (P = 0.07). This demonstrates that a prognostic model could predict a couple’s chances of natural conception and the benefit they derive from treatment.

Conclusions

This prognostic mode allows fertility treatment to be individually tailored to reduce unnecessary IVF without compromising fertility chances.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of factors associated with post‐operative pancreatic fistula following pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Kamarajah Sivesh K. , Bundred James R. , Lin Aaron , Halle‐Smith James , Pande Rupaly , Sutcliffe Robert , Harrison Ewen M. , Roberts Keith J. ,   PARANOIA Study Group
Published: November 2020

Background

Many studies have explored factors relating to post‐operative pancreatic fistula (POPF); however, the original definition (All‐POPF) was revised to include only ‘clinically relevant’ (CR) POPF. This study identified variables associated with the two International Study Group on Pancreatic Surgery definitions to identify which variables are more strongly associated with CR‐POPF.

Methods

A systematic review identified all studies reporting risk factors for POPF (using both International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula definitions) following pancreatoduodenectomy. The primary outcome was factors associated with CR‐POPF. Meta‐analyses (random effects models) of pre‐, intra‐ and post‐operative factors associated with POPF in more than two studies were included.

Results

Among 52 774 patients All‐POPF (n = 69 studies) and CR‐POPF (n = 53 studies) affected 27% (95% confidence interval (CI95%) 23–30) and 19% (CI95% 17–22), respectively. Of the 176 factors, 24 and 17 were associated with All‐ and CR‐POPF, respectively. Absence of pre‐operative pancreatitis, presence of renal disease, no pre‐operative neoadjuvant therapy, use of post‐operative somatostatin analogues, absence of associated venous or arterial resection were associated with CR‐POPF but not All‐POPF.

Conclusion

In conclusion this study demonstrates wide variation in reported rates of POPF and that several risk factors associated with CR‐POPF are not used within risk prediction models. Data from this study can be used to shape future studies, research and audit across ethnic and geographic boundaries in POPF following pancreatoduodenectomy.
Therapeutic Effects of Meditation, Yoga, and Mindfulness‐Based Interventions for Chronic Symptoms of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Acabchuk Rebecca L. , Brisson Julie M. , Park Crystal L. , Babbott‐Bryan Noah , Parmelee Olivia A. , Johnson Blair T.
Published: November 2020

Background

Chronic symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) vary greatly and are difficult to treat; we investigate the impact of meditation, yoga, and mindfulness‐based interventions on this treatment group.

Method

Search included four databases, allowing studies of any design containing pre/post outcomes for meditation, yoga, or mindfulness‐based interventions in people suffering from brain injury acquired by mechanical force. Analyses used robust variance estimation to assess overall effects and random‐effects models for selected outcomes; we evaluated both between‐ and within‐group changes.

Results

Twenty studies (N = 539) were included. Results revealed significant improvement of overall symptoms compared to controls (d = 0.41; 95% CI [0.04, 0.77]; τ2 = 0.06), with significant within‐group improvements in mental health (d = 0.39), physical health (d = 0.39), cognitive performance (d = 0.24), quality of life (d = 0.39), and self‐related processing (d = 0.38). Symptoms showing greatest improvement were fatigue (d = 0.96) and depression (d = 0.40). Findings were homogeneous across studies. Study quality concerns include lack of randomisation, blinding, and recording of adverse events.

Conclusions

This first‐ever meta‐analysis on meditation, yoga, and mindfulness‐based interventions for chronic symptoms of mTBI offers hope but highlights the need for rigorous new trials to advance clinical applications and to explore mechanistic pathways.
Factors associated with mental health outcomes among patients with COVID‐19 treated in the Fangcang shelter hospital in China
Authors: Gu Yingqi , Zhu Yi , Xu Fangzhong , Xi Juzhe , Xu Guangxing
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Faced with surging infections and considering that 80% of cases were mild and moderate, the city government transformed stadiums and exhibition centers into the Fangcang shelter hospitals in Wuhan. The aims of this study were to evaluate mental health outcomes among patients with COVID‐19 treated in the Fangcang shelter hospitals and analyze potential risk factors associated with these symptoms, including PTSS, symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and perceived stress.

Method

This cross‐sectional study used an online survey to assess mental health problems of 461 confirmed COVID‐19 patients in a Jianghan Fangcang shelter from February 15 to 22, 2020. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to explore potential risk factors.

Results

Overall, 25.2%, 50.1%, 54.4%, 10.2%, and 39.7% of all patients reported symptoms of posttraumatic stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and perceived stress, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that female sex was associated with all investigated outcomes except insomnia. Patients with lower education level were more likely to endorse anxiety, depression, and higher perceived stress, while patients' family members with other diseases were more likely to endorse severe insomnia. Patients with illness onset to admission less than 7 days were associated with higher perceived stress.

Discussion

In this survey study, patients reported high rates of symptoms of posttraumatic stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and perceived stress. Combining with the special environment of the shelter hospitals and patient's psychological needs, the health care workers should give more effective interventions to relieve the patients' stress and improve their mental symptoms.
A Strategy to Treat COVID‐19 Disease With Targeted Delivery of Inhalable Liposomal Hydroxychloroquine: A Preclinical Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Tai Tien‐Tzu , Wu Tzung‐Ju , Wu Huey‐Dong , Tsai Yi‐Chen , Wang Hui‐Ting , Wang An‐Min , Shih Sheue‐Fang , Chen Yee‐Chun
Published: November 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is a newly identified pathogen causing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), an antimalarial and anti‐inflammatory drug, has been shown to inhibit SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in vitro and tested in clinical studies. However, achievement of lung concentrations predicted to have in vivo antiviral efficacy might not be possible with the currently proposed oral dosing regimens. Further, high cumulative doses of HCQ raise concerns of systemic toxicity, including cardiotoxicity. Here, we describe a preclinical study to investigate the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of a novel formulation of liposomal HCQ administered by intratracheal (IT) instillation in Sprague‐Dawley rats. Compared with unformulated HCQ administered intravenously, liposomal HCQ showed higher (~ 30‐fold) lung exposure, longer (~ 2.5‐fold) half‐life in lungs, but lower blood exposure with ~ 20% of peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and 74% of area under the curve from 0 to 72 hours (AUC0–72) and lower heart exposure with 23% of Cmax and 58% of AUC0–24 (normalized for dose). Similar results were observed relative to IT administration of unformulated HCQ. These PKs result in an animal model that demonstrated the proof of concept that inhalable liposomal HCQ may provide clinical benefit and serve as a potential treatment for COVID‐19.