bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical implications of synovial fluid specimen handling for crystal associated arthritides: A systematic review
Authors: Meyer Megan M. , Marks Lisa A. , Aslam Fawad
Published: November 2020

Aim

To identify the appropriate methods of synovial fluid (SF) specimen storage, manipulation and handling for crystal associated arthritides (CAA) diagnosis.

Method

A systematic literature review was conducted using 5 medical databases to identify diagnostic studies assessing SF specimen handling for calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) and monosodium urate (MSU) crystals identification. All included studies were rated for quality using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2.

Results

Fifteen studies, including 2 non‐English language manuscripts, were included. Eight studies examined both types of crystals, while 3 studies examined CPP and 4 studies examined MSU crystals only. Overall, MSU crystals were more stable over time compared to CPP crystals. MSU stability was generally independent of time, preservative and temperature. CPP crystals deteriorated with time and were more stable if refrigerated. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) was a suitable preservative. Re‐examining an initially negative SF sample at 24 hours facilitated detection of additional cases. Very few studies had an overall low risk of bias and applicability.

Conclusion

Monosodium urate crystals remain stable over time independent of storage time, temperature and preservative. CPP crystals are mostly stable for 24‐48 hours but can deteriorate with time. Overall, SF crystal examination should ideally be done within 24‐48 hours. They may be stored at room temperature without any preservative. Otherwise, refrigeration (4°C/39°F) and EDTA preservation is reasonable. Stored SF re‐examination, at 24 hours, helps identify a small number of additional MSU and CPP cases. Centrifugation techniques allow better and easier crystal identification, particularly CPP. Most studies were of unclear or low quality.
Autologous cytokine‐induced killer (CIK) cells enhance the clinical response to PD‐1 blocking antibodies in patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer: A preliminary study
Authors: Han Ying , Mu Di , Liu Ting , Zhang Huan , Zhang Jiali , Li Shuzhan , Wang Rui , Du Weijiao , Hui Zhenzhen , Zhang Xinwei , Ren Xiubao
Published: November 2020

Background

Programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) blocking antibodies have been shown to improve progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival in a subset of patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the objective response rate with these agents remains low, and the vast majority of NSCLC patients require alternative combination treatment regimens to prolong their survival. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of autologous cytokine‐induced killer (CIK) cell infusions combined with PD‐1 blocking antibodies in patients with NSCLC.

Methods

In this preliminary study, we investigated the safety and immune function effectiveness of PD‐1 blockade antibodies pembrolizumab or nivolumab administered in combination with or without autologous CIK cell infusions in 18 patients with advanced NSCLC. The peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from these patients and the expression level of some cell surface molecules like PD‐1 were detected using flow cytometry to reflect the effectiveness of this combination regimen.

Results

No treatment‐related deaths occurred in either cohort. In comparison with the pretreatment level, CD3+CD56+CD16+ T cells were significantly increased with the combination therapy, while myeloid‐derived suppressor cells were significantly increased with PD‐1 blocking antibody therapy alone but not with combination therapy. Although the serum interleukin‐4 level was downregulated following treatment with the combination regimen, interferon‐γ levels were unchanged.

Conclusions

The purpose of this clinical study was to report the clinical efficacy and lack of exacerbated autoimmune adverse events with a combination of PD‐1 blockade and CIK cell infusions in patients with advanced NSCLC, further supporting assessments of this combination in future clinical trials.
Incorporating time into the traditional correlational distributional modelling framework: A proof‐of‐concept using the Wood Thrush Hylocichla mustelina
Authors: Ingenloff Kate , Peterson Andrew T.
Published: November 2020

Detailed spatio‐temporal information about geographic distributions of species is critical for biodiversity analyses in conservation and planning. Traditional correlative modelling approaches use species observational data in model calibration and testing in a time‐averaged framework. This method averages environmental values through time to yield a single environmental value for each location. Although valuable for exploring distributions of species at a broad level, this averaging is one of myriad factors impacting model quality and reliability.

We sought to optimize traditional correlative niche model performance in distributional ecology contexts by incorporating time specificity into the existing modelling framework. We modified the existing framework to account for temporal dynamics in species' distributions to produce more robust, temporally explicit models. Using the Wood Thrush Hylostichla mustelina as our study species, we introduce a method of (a) deriving a temporally explicit pseudo‐absence dataset using kernel density estimates to replicate relative sampling of sites through time, and (b) incorporating temporally explicit covariates in model calibration.

By accounting for location, and month and year of primary data collection, the time‐specific models successfully yielded dynamic predictions reflecting known distributional shifts in Hylocichla mustelina's annual movement pattern.

The modified data preparation steps that we present incorporate temporal dimensions into traditional correlational modelling approaches improving predictive capacity and overall utility of these models for highly mobile, short‐lived or behaviourally complex species. With the ability to estimate species' niches in greater detail, time‐specific models will be able to address specific concerns of species‐level management and policy development for highly mobile and/or migratory species, as well as disease vectors of public health interest.
Sixty years of Accounting & Finance: a bibliometric analysis of major research themes and contributions
Authors: Linnenluecke Martina K. , Marrone Mauricio , Singh Abhay K.
Published: November 2020

This article offers a systematic review of the major contributions in the journal Accounting & Finance over the past 60 years. We apply several different bibliographic tools to model highly cited articles and major strands of research that have significantly advanced research in accounting and finance across the Asia‐Pacific region. An analysis of bursting (or ‘hot’) topics shows major research trends over time, including recent ‘hot’ topics such as China‐related research, corporate social responsibility and sustainable finance. The article concludes by highlighting new research directions ‐ Accounting & Finance has opened towards more interdisciplinary research and greater diversity in methods.
Neurocognitive functioning after electroconvulsive therapy in late‐life depression: A 4‐year prospective study
Authors: Obbels Jasmien , Vansteelandt Kristof , Bouckaert Filip , Dols Annemiek , Stek Max , Verwijk Esmée , Sienaert Pascal
Published: November 2020

Objective

Despite the proven efficacy and safety of ECT, there is still concern about the possible cognitive side effects of ECT in older patients. In this study, we aimed to characterize the long‐term cognitive effects of ECT in patients with late‐life depression (LLD) from before the start until 4 years after the index ECT course.

Methods

Fourty one patients aged 55 years and older with a unipolar depression, referred for ECT, were included. The neuropsychological test battery was assessed prior to ECT, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and 4 years after the last ECT session.

Results

We did not find any statistically significant cognitive changes from before the start to 4 years after ending the ECT course. Although we could not detect cognitive changes at group level, we found clinically important differences on an individual level.

Conclusion

Cognitive performance in patients with LLD runs a stable course from before the start of ECT until 4 years after the index course. At an individual level, however, both cognitive decline and improvement can be witnessed. Older patients can tolerate ECT and most of them will not experience long‐term cognitive side effects.
Juvenile spring eruption among soldiers: A report of a large outbreak
Authors: Kılıç Sayar Sıla
Published: November 2020

Juvenile spring eruption is a rare photodermatosis characterised by papules and vesicles appeared on the helix of the ears. A combination of environmental factors including sunlight and cold has been postulated in the pathogenesis. Herein, 58 soldiers with juvenile spring eruption from a single military unit are reported and the characteristics of other reported outbreaks among soldiers are reviewed. [Correction added on 14th November 2020, after first online publication: “The last sentence of the abstract section has been revised.”]
Anaemia in cardiac surgery – a retrospective review of a centre's experience with a pre‐operative intravenous iron clinic
Authors: Quarterman C. , Shaw M. , Hughes S. , Wallace V. , Agarwal S.
Published: November 2020

Pre‐operative anaemia is associated with higher rates of transfusion and worse outcomes, including prolonged hospital stay, morbidity and mortality. Iron deficiency is associated with significantly lower haemoglobin levels throughout the peri‐operative period and more frequent blood transfusion. Correction of iron stores before surgery forms part of the first pillar of patient blood management. We established a pre‐operative anaemia clinic to aid identification and treatment of patients with iron deficiency anaemia scheduled for elective cardiac surgery. We present a retrospective observational review of our experience from January 2017 to December 2019. One‐hundred and ninety patients received treatment with intravenous iron, a median of 21 days before cardiac surgery. Of these, 179 had a formal laboratory haemoglobin level measured before surgery, demonstrating a median rise in haemoglobin of 8.0 g.l‐1. Patients treated with i.v. iron demonstrated a significantly higher incidence of transfusion (60%) compared with the non‐anaemic cohort (22%) during the same time period, p < 0.001. Significantly higher rates of new requirement for renal replacement therapy (6.7% vs. 0.6%, p < 0.001) and of stroke (3.7% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.010) were also seen in this group compared with those without anaemia, although there was no significant difference in in‐hospital mortality (1.6% vs. 0.8%, p = 0.230). In patients where the presenting haemoglobin was less than 130 g.l‐1, but there was no intervention or treatment, there was no difference in rates of transfusion or of complications compared with the anaemic group treated with iron. In patients with proven iron deficiency anaemia, supplementation with intravenous iron showed only a modest effect on haemoglobin and this group still had a significantly higher transfusion requirement than the non‐anaemic cohort. Supplementation with intravenous iron did not improve outcomes compared with patients with anaemia who did not receive intravenous iron and did not reduce peri‐operative risk to non‐anaemic levels. Questions remain regarding identification of patients who will receive most benefit, the use of concomitant treatment with other agents, and the optimum time frames for treatment in order to produce benefit in the real‐world setting.
Effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on male sex‐related hormones in recovering patients
Authors: Xu Hui , Wang Zhixian , Feng Chunxiang , Yu Weiwei , Chen Yuan , Zeng Xiaoyong , Liu Chang
Published: November 2020

Background

A novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), which causing the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), may attack testes by angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2.

Objective

To assess whether SARS‐CoV‐2 infection can affect sex‐related hormones and testicular function in recovering patients.

Materials and methods

The patients were separately classified according to the duration of viral shedding (long‐term positive vs normal‐term group, with the former cases having a duration > 50 days) and disease severity (moderate vs severe group). Differences in sex‐related hormone levels were compared between groups and linear regression analysis was used to compare the associations of testosterone (T) and estradiol with various clinical and laboratory factors.

Results

A total of 39 COVID‐19‐infected patients were included in this study. The mean T level was in the normal reference range while the mean estradiol level was above the normal limit. There were no significant differences between the long‐term positive and normal‐term groups in T (P = .964), follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH; P = .694), luteinizing hormone (LH; P = .171), prolactin (PRL; P = .836), or T/LH (P = .512). However, estradiol was higher in the normal‐term group than the long‐term positive group (P < .001). Moreover, there were also no significant differences between the moderate and severe groups in sex‐related hormones, duration of viral shedding, or serum biochemical or inflammation indicators. Additionally, regression analyses showed that there were no associations between the T level and the clinical and laboratory factors, while estradiol was negatively associated with the duration of viral shedding.

Conclusion

In males infected with SARS‐CoV‐2, most sex‐related hormones (T, FSH and LH levels) remain within the normal reference ranges after recovery from COVID‐19, and no significant associations were observed between T level and disease duration or severity. At present, there is insufficient evidence to show that SARS‐CoV‐2 causes hypogonadism and sterility, but the potential risk should not be ignored.
Technics of Labor: Productivism, Expertise, and Solid Waste Management in a Public‐Private Partnership
Authors: Butt Waqas H.
Published: November 2020

In Lahore, a public‐private partnership has been formed to replace the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Department. Along with technological and managerial interventions into the labor process, this partnership has also brought in a class of professionals whose expertise is viewed as being essential to improving solid waste management for the city. Nevertheless, a labor force of sanitation workers and supervisors from the municipal SWM Department remain the primary means by which discarded materials are actually taken away across the urban landscape. This article examines how technical and productivist frameworks were brought to bear—especially as professionals enacted their expertise—upon the labor process by which waste materials are disposed of in the city. In doing so, this article argues that in moments of institutional and technological transition, the instability of work as a category of action opens it up to potential revaluation. Not only does this approach make clear the frameworks, whether technical or productivist, through which forms of work or labor get revalued, it also allows us to trace a politics of work beyond such frameworks.
Population pharmacokinetics of azathioprine active metabolite in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and dosage regimens optimisation
Authors: Lin Rongfang , Lin Weiwei , Wang Changlian , Dong Jiashan , Zheng Weiwei , Zeng Dayong , Liu Yiwei , Lin Cuihong , Jiao Zheng , Huang Pinfang
Published: November 2020

Azathioprine is a first‐line drug used to maintain the remission of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). As a prodrug, azathioprine is metabolised to produce active 6‐thioguanine nucleotides (6‐TGN). There are large individual variations in the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of 6‐TGN in patients with IBD. Here, we aimed to develop a model to quantitatively investigate factors that affect 6‐TGN pharmacokinetics to formulate a dosage guideline for azathioprine. Data were collected prospectively from 100 adult patients with IBD who were receiving azathioprine. Patients were genotyped for two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (TPMT*3C c.719A > G and NUDT15 c.415C > T). Using high‐performance liquid chromatography, we measured 156 steady‐state trough concentrations of 6‐TGN within the range 0.09 to 1.16 mg/L (ie 133‐1733 pmol per 8 × 108 RBC). The covariates analysed included sex, age, body‐weight, laboratory tests and concomitant medications. A population pharmacokinetic model was established using “non‐linear mixed‐effects modelling” software and the “first‐order conditional estimation method with interaction.” Body‐weight, TPMT*3C polymorphisms and co‐therapy with mesalazine were found to be important factors influencing the clearance of 6‐TGN. A dosage guideline for azathioprine was developed based on the PPK model that enables individualised azathioprine dosing in adult patients with different body‐weights, TPMT*3C genotypes and co‐administration with mesalazine.
Children's visual impairment and visual care related to socioeconomic status in Catalonia (Spain)
Authors: Vila‐Vidal Núria , Guisasola Laura , Rius Anna , Alonso Jordi , Tresserras Ricard
Published: November 2020

Background

The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of visual impairment and visual care practices and its association with socioeconomic conditions in the infant population in Catalonia.

Methods

The Catalan Institute of Statistics provided a random sample of 0 to 14‐year‐old non‐institutionalized children whose parents were interviewed in a continuous health survey from 2011 to 2015 in Catalonia. A multistage stratified and random sampling procedure considering age, sex, county and town was followed.

All results have been weighted according to the sample design and are presented as the proportion of the condition with its 95% confidence limits. Chi‐square tests were performed to evaluate the association between categorical variables. To study the association of visual care with independent variables, a multiple logistic regression model was used.

Results

In 0 to 14‐year‐old children, a 12.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] [11.8–13.9]) prevalence of correctable visual impairment was observed. The prevalence of non‐correctable visual impairment was 0.9% (95% CI [0.6–1.2]). Non‐correctable visual impairment was more prevalent in families with lower education levels, manual professions or unemployed.

Of children without visual impairment, 13,5% (95% CI:12.3–14.6) visited a visual care professional in the last 12 months while this proportion was 67.4% (95% CI [63.3–71.5]) among those with correctable visual impairment. When parents have a university degree or non‐manual professions, a higher level of visual care was observed. In children with correctable visual impairment, visual reviews were more frequent when parents are employed in a non‐manual profession.

Conclusions

For the first time, indicators related to visual impairment in children in Catalonia have been recorded. There is an association between lower socioeconomic status and having non‐correctable visual impairment, and conversely, having correctable visual impairment was significantly associated with employed parents. More visual care is associated with higher socioeconomic status.
Sex‐specific associations of asthma acquisition with changes in DNA methylation during adolescence
Authors: Patel Rutu , Solatikia Farnaz , Zhang Hongmei , Wolde Alemayehu , Kadalayil Latha , Karmaus Wilfried , Ewart Susan , Arathimos Ryan , Relton Caroline , Ring Susan , Henderson Alexander John , Arshad Syed Hasan , Holloway John W.
Published: November 2020

Background

Underlying biological mechanisms involved in sex differences in asthma status changes from pre‐ to post‐adolescence are unclear. DNA methylation (DNAm) has been shown to be associated with the risk of asthma.

Objective

We hypothesized that asthma acquisition from pre‐ to post‐adolescence was associated with changes in DNAm during this period at asthma‐associated cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine (CpG) sites and such an association was sex‐specific.

Methods

Subjects from the Isle of Wight birth cohort (IOWBC) with DNAm in blood at ages 10 and 18 years (n = 124 females, 151 males) were studied. Using a training‐testing approach, epigenome‐wide CpGs associated with asthma were identified. Logistic regression was used to examine sex‐specific associations of DNAm changes with asthma acquisition between ages 10 and 18 at asthma‐associated CpGs. The ALSPAC birth cohort was used for independent replication. To assess functional relevance of identified CpGs, association of DNAm with gene expression in blood was assessed.

Results

We identified 535 CpGs potentially associated with asthma. Significant interaction effects of DNAm changes and sex on asthma acquisition in adolescence were found at 13 of the 535 CpGs in IOWBC (P‐values <1.0 × 10−3). In the replication cohort, consistent interaction effects were observed at 10 of the 13 CpGs. At 7 of these 10 CpGs, opposite DNAm changes across adolescence were observed between sexes in both cohorts. In both cohorts, cg20891917, located on IFRD1 linked to asthma, shows strong sex‐specific effects on asthma transition (P‐values <.01 in both cohorts).

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Gender reversal in asthma acquisition is associated with opposite changes in DNAm (males vs females) from pre‐ to post‐adolescence at asthma‐associated CpGs. These CpGs are potential biomarkers of sex‐specific asthma acquisition in adolescence.
Utilization of intensive behavioural treatment for obesity in patients with diabetes
Authors: Kraschnewski Jennifer , Yeh Hsin‐Chieh , Francis Erica , Kong Lan , Lehman Erik , Rovito Stephanie , Poger Jennifer , Bryce Cindy
Published: November 2020

Obesity is a leading public health concern. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services implemented a healthcare procedure code for intensive behavioural therapy (IBT) in 2012 to facilitate payment for addressing obesity in primary care settings, followed by universal coverage by insurers for all adults. Our objective was to understand utilization of IBT from 2009 to 2017 in patients with a diabetes diagnosis. Leveraging electronic health record data from the PaTH Clinical Data Research Network (CDRN), a partnership of six health systems, utilization of IBT was summarized at a yearly basis. The trend of IBT prevalence was examined for patients with diabetes by gender, race, age (>=65 vs <65) and rurality. A total of 205, 913 patients were included. While utilization of IBT is low (0.24% in 2017), use of IBT increased among patients with commercial insurance and Medicaid (codes S9449 and S9470) in 2011, and among patients with Medicare (code G0447) in 2012. IBT users tended to be less than 65 years of age, female, non‐White (Black or Hispanic), and reside in urban areas. Overall, use of IBT in patients with diabetes remains low. Future work is necessary to understand the impact of IBT and, if effective, how to increase use within primary care.
Value of photo assessment in late patch test readings—A multicenter study from six European patch test clinics
Authors: Yüksel Yasemin T. , Sedeh Farnam B. , Brans Richard , Svedman Cecilia , Paulsen Evy , Gimenéz‐Arnau Ana , Foti Caterina , Agner Tove ,   The EECDRG
Published: November 2020

Background

It is recommended that patch test readings include a day (D)7 reading. Substitution of the D7 reading with a photo may be a valid option.

Objectives

To compare the sensitivity of digital photos at D7 to clinical readings, to assess the number of positive reactions appearing at D7 only (late reactions), and after D7 only (delayed reactions).

Methods

Patients patch tested in six European clinics were instructed to forward photos of the patch test reactions to the respective clinics at D7 (before attending the clinic) and at D21. Only allergens in the baseline series or TRUE Test were included in the data analysis.

Results

Two hundred ninety‐three of 629 patients had a total of 599 positive reactions, with 6.3% occurring at D7 only. When substituting the D7 reading with a photo (90% submitted), 26.3% of late reactions were missed and nine false‐positive reactions were found. Delayed reactions were detected in four patients at D21 (65.3% submitted).

Conclusion

Our data show that if the D7 reading is not performed, 6.3% of positive reactions from the baseline series would be missed, and if substituting the D7 reading by digital photo, 26.3% late reactions would be missed. Delayed reactions seemed rare.
948. ANGRAECUM LONGICALCAR
Authors: Rajaovelona Landy , Kompalli Bala , Cribb Phillip
Published: November 2020

Angraecum longicalcar (Bosser) Senghas is illustrated. Details of its distribution and conservation are given, accompanied by a watercolour painting, line drawing and photographs.
949. ALOE HOROMBENSIS
Authors: Rakotoarisoa Solofo E.
Published: November 2020

The type variety of Aloe horombensis J.‐P. Castillon (Asphodelaceae) is poorly known. It is represented from a few specimens collected more than 80 years ago. Despite its attractive pink flowers, it is not common in cultivation which may be due to its rarity. It is described and illustrated here, with information about its habitat, phenology, cultivation and finally conservation status. An overview of genus Aloe and its position in the family the family Asphodelaceae are given.
955. DICHAETANTHERA CORDIFOLIA
Authors: Rakotonasolo Franck
Published: November 2020

Dichaetanthera cordifolia Baker from Madagascar is illustrated and its geographical distribution is mapped. Its relationship with an amazing insect is described.
959. BREXIA MADAGASCARIENSIS
Authors: Corcoran Marcella , Dequiret Solène , Pickering Thomas E.M. , Cable Stuart
Published: November 2020

Brexia madagascariensis (Lam.) Ker Gawl is native in East Madagascar. There are at least 25 known subpopulations growing mostly in humid forest (IUCN 2020), particularly in remnant patches of coastal forest. It was listed as ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red Lists in 2007; however, continuing pressure on forests and potential taxonomic changes may require this to be reviewed. Madagascar has very high deforestation rates, primarily caused by logging and widespread shifting cultivation. Germination and cultivation for in‐situ and ex‐situ conservation are easily achievable and this small tree is ideal for education and display in botanic gardens. The leaves of juvenile plants are long and spiny, while the adult leaves tend to be more rounded and lack the spines.
Variability of isotopic partitioning between sympatric brown trout (Salmo trutta) and European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) in the Loue River (France)
Authors: Frossard Victor , Vagnon Chloé , Rossignon Christian , Caudron Arnaud
Published: November 2020

Trophic partitioning, defining how individuals or populations differ in their resource use, is expected to promote coexistence of sympatric species by reducing resource overlap. We used stable isotope measurements (δ13C and δ15N) to address niche characteristics (δ13C and δ15N ranges, isotope convex hull and standard ellipse areas, mean nearest neighbour distances and trophic positions) and trophic partitioning of sympatric brown trout (Salmo trutta,n = 110) and European grayling (Thymallus thymallus,n = 63) in two sampling locations of a French river. Aquatic resources predominantly fuelled both species, yet both terrestrial resources (TER) and trophic positions (TP) were higher for trout (~36 ± 13% TER, 3.6 ± 0.7 TP) than grayling (~26 ± 9% TER, 2.7 ± 0.6 TP) supporting difference in their trophic niches. Isotope analyses showed that trout had a larger isotope niche than grayling suggesting more opportunistic trophic behaviour. Their isotopic overlapping was higher at the upstream site (isotopic nestedness = 0.8 ± 0.1) than that at the downstream site (isotopic nestedness = 0.4 ± 0.2). Euclidian distances of stable isotopes and TP for the two species increased with salmonid size, while aquatic resource use decreased with salmonid size. These results demonstrate an increase in isotopic niche partitioning and change in trophic attributes with ontogeny. Our study showed that despite relying on similar resources, these two sympatric salmonids exhibited clear trophic differences that were amplified with ontogeny. The consideration of fish ontogenetic dietary shift would hence be a determinant driver of the trophic niche partitioning for these sympatric salmonids.
A study of the phenotypic variability and disease progression in Laing myopathy through the evaluation of muscle imaging
Authors: Muelas Nuria , Frasquet Marina , Más‐Estellés Fernando , Martí Pilar , Martínez‐Vicente Laura , Sevilla Teresa , Azorín Inmaculada , Poyatos‐García Javier , Argente‐Escrig Herminia , Vílchez Roger , Vázquez‐Costa Juan F. , Bataller Luis , Vilchez Juan J.
Published: November 2020

Background

Laing myopathy is characterized by broad clinical and pathological variability. They are limited in number and protocol of study. We aimed to delineate muscle imaging profiles and validate imaging analysis as an outcome measure.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional and longitudinal cohort study. Data from clinical, functional and semi‐quantitative muscle imaging (60 magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] and six computed tomography scans) were studied. Hierarchical analysis, graphic heatmap representation and correlation between imaging and clinical data using Bayesian statistics were carried out.

Results

The study cohort comprised 42 patients from 13 families harbouring five MYH7 mutations. The cohort had a wide range of ages, age at onset, disease duration, and myopathy extension and Gardner‐Medwin and Walton (GMW) functional scores. Intramuscular fat was evident in all but two asymptomatic/pauci‐symptomatic patients. Anterior leg compartment muscles were the only affected muscles in 12% of the patients. Widespread extension to the thigh, hip, paravertebral and calf muscles and, less frequently, the scapulohumeral muscles was commonly observed, depicting distinct patterns and rates of progression. Foot muscles were involved in 40% of patients, evolving in parallel to other regions with absence of a disto‐proximal gradient. Whole cumulative imaging score, ranging from 0 to 2.9 out of 4, was associated with disease duration and with myopathy extension and GMW scales. Follow‐up MRI studies in 24 patients showed significant score progression at a variable rate.

Conclusions

We confirmed that the anterior leg compartment is systematically affected in Laing myopathy and may represent the only manifestation of this disorder. However, widespread muscle involvement in preferential but variable and not distance‐dependent patterns was frequently observed. Imaging score analysis is useful to categorize patients and to follow disease progression over time.
Short‐term responses of freshwater mussels to floods in a southwestern U.S.A. river estimated using mark–recapture sampling
Authors: Sotola V. Alex , Sullivan Kyle T. , Littrell Brad M. , Martin Noland H. , Stich Daniel S. , Bonner Timothy H.
Published: November 2020

Floods can directly affect riverine organisms by displacing them, and population‐level responses to floods can vary depending on flood magnitude and organism mobility. Benthic organisms can resist displacement until substrates become unstable, whereas mobile organisms are generally more resilient. Freshwater mussels are benthic organisms with low mobility, and there is limited research on their population‐level responses to floods. This study provides novel insights to population‐level responses of mussels to large floods (>500 m3/s).

Population dynamics (i.e. abundance, survival, and site fidelity) and sampling efficiency (i.e. detection probability) were estimated in a robust design framework for four freshwater mussel species (Cyclonaias petrina, Cyclonaias pustulosa, Amblema plicata, and Tritogonia verrucosa) from 2017 to 2019 at two sites (upper and lower sites) within riffle habitats in the Colorado River, Texas, U.S.A. Individuals of each species were affixed with shellfish tags, with C. petrina and C. pustulosa individuals also being affixed with passive integrated transponder tags. Changes in population dynamics related to the flood event at each site were directly tested. During sampling, a major flood occurred at each of the two study sites; the floods differed in magnitude but were in the 99th percentile of historical flows at their respective gages.

There were site‐ and species‐specific differences in estimated abundances, survival, and site fidelity during periods with the floods. Estimated abundances of C. petrina, C. pustulosa, and T. verrucosa were reduced 40–78% by the lesser flood magnitude (1,283 m3/s) at the upper site. Estimated abundances of C. petrina, C. pustulosa, and A. plicata were reduced 93–95% by the greater flood magnitude (4,332 m3/s) at the lower site. There was a reduction in survival of C. petrina at the upper site, while initially high survival at the lower site was reduced during the interval with the flood for all species. Finally, there was a reduction in site fidelity of C. pustulosa at the lower site.

Floods reduced the abundance of all species within riffle habitats at the two sites. Large floods, therefore, affect population dynamics of mussels, but the fate of the displaced mussels is unknown, and with limited inference, reach‐scale effects are unknown. This study adds to the growing body of knowledge about responses of aquatic organisms to large floods, although quantification of recolonisation and fate of displaced mussels are needed to fully understand long‐term effects of large floods on mussel communities.
Whole exome sequencing identifies the potential for genetic rescue in iconic and critically endangered Panamanian harlequin frogs
Authors: Byrne Allison Q. , Richards‐Zawacki Corinne L. , Voyles Jamie , Bi Ke , Ibáñez Roberto , Rosenblum Erica Bree
Published: November 2020

Avoiding extinction in a rapidly changing environment often relies on a species’ ability to quickly adapt in the face of extreme selective pressures. In Panamá, two closely related harlequin frog species (Atelopus varius and Atelopus zeteki) are threatened with extinction due to the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). Once thought to be nearly extirpated from Panamá, A. varius have recently been rediscovered in multiple localities across their historical range; however, A. zeteki are possibly extinct in the wild. By leveraging a unique collection of 186 Atelopus tissue samples collected before and after the Bd outbreak in Panama, we describe the genetics of persistence for these species on the brink of extinction. We sequenced the transcriptome and developed an exome‐capture assay to sequence the coding regions of the Atelopus genome. Using these genetic data, we evaluate the population genetic structure of historical A. varius and A. zeteki populations, describe changes in genetic diversity over time, assess the relationship between contemporary and historical individuals, and test the hypothesis that some A. varius populations have rapidly evolved to resist or tolerate Bd infection. We found a significant decrease in genetic diversity in contemporary (compared to historical) A. varius populations. We did not find strong evidence of directional allele frequency change or selection for Bd resistance genes, but we uncovered a set of candidate genes that warrant further study. Additionally, we found preliminary evidence of recent migration and gene flow in one of the largest persisting A. varius populations in Panamá, suggesting the potential for genetic rescue in this system. Finally, we propose that previous conservation units should be modified, as clear genetic breaks do not exist beyond the local population level. Our data lay the groundwork for genetically informed conservation and advance our understanding of how imperiled species might be rescued from extinction.
Impact of prior and projected climate change on US Lyme disease incidence
Authors: Couper Lisa I. , MacDonald Andrew J. , Mordecai Erin A.
Published: November 2020

Lyme disease is the most common vector‐borne disease in temperate zones and a growing public health threat in the United States (US). The life cycles of the tick vectors and spirochete pathogen are highly sensitive to climate, but determining the impact of climate change on Lyme disease burden has been challenging due to the complex ecology of the disease and the presence of multiple, interacting drivers of transmission. Here we incorporated 18 years of annual, county‐level Lyme disease case data in a panel data statistical model to investigate prior effects of climate variation on disease incidence while controlling for other putative drivers. We then used these climate–disease relationships to project Lyme disease cases using CMIP5 global climate models and two potential climate scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5). We find that interannual variation in Lyme disease incidence is associated with climate variation in all US regions encompassing the range of the primary vector species. In all regions, the climate predictors explained less of the variation in Lyme disease incidence than unobserved county‐level heterogeneity, but the strongest climate–disease association detected was between warming annual temperatures and increasing incidence in the Northeast. Lyme disease projections indicate that cases in the Northeast will increase significantly by 2050 (23,619 ± 21,607 additional cases), but only under RCP8.5, and with large uncertainty around this projected increase. Significant case changes are not projected for any other region under either climate scenario. The results demonstrate a regionally variable and nuanced relationship between climate change and Lyme disease, indicating possible nonlinear responses of vector ticks and transmission dynamics to projected climate change. Moreover, our results highlight the need for improved preparedness and public health interventions in endemic regions to minimize the impact of further climate change‐induced increases in Lyme disease burden.
Objective and subjective rapid frailty screening tools in people with HIV
Authors: Beanland A , Alagaratnam J , Goffe C , Bailey A , Dosekun O , Petersen C , Ayap W , Garvey LJ , Walsh J , Mackie NE , Winston A
Published: November 2020

Objectives

As people with HIV (PWH) age, the prevalence of frailty increases. Rapid screening tests to identify frailty within HIV outpatient settings are required to identify at‐risk individuals. We undertook a service evaluation to assess three short frailty assessments in PWH.

Methods

We assessed two objective [gait speed (GS), timed‐up‐and‐go test (TUGT)] and one subjective [the self‐reported health questionnaire (SRH)] frailty screening tools in PWH aged > 40 years attending a single HIV outpatient department. Factors associated with positive frailty screening tests (defined as GS < 0.8 m/s, TUGT ≥ 10 s and SRH score < 6) were assessed using logistic regression models.

Ethical considerations

This was a service evaluation and was approved as a service evaluation by the Imperial College Healthcare NHS trust HIV clinical research committee (February 2020). All participants were given verbal information and were able to terminate the screening tests at any time.

Results

Of 84 PWH approached, 80 individuals completed all screening tests (median age = 56 years, range: 40–80) with a positive frailty screening prevalence in 19%, 33% and 20% for GS, TUGT and SRH, respectively. All tests were considered acceptable to participants. Factors statistically significantly associated with frailty included age (GS and TUGT), detectable HIV RNA (TUGT), number of comorbidities (GS and TUGT), presence of polypharmacy (GS and TUGT) and total number of concomitant medication (GS and SRH).

Conclusions

Rates of positive screening tests for frailty are dependent on screening tool used, with all three tools being acceptable to participants. Objective measures of frailty screening (GS and TUGT) are more closely associated with clinical parameters than is a subjective measure of frailty screening (SRH).
ApoB‐lipoprotein remnant dyslipidemia and high‐fat meal intolerance is associated with markers of cardiometabolic risk in youth with obesity
Authors: Krysa Jacqueline A. , Ball Geoff D. C. , Vine Donna F. , Jetha Mary , Proctor Spencer D.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) originates in childhood and risk is exacerbated in obesity. Mechanisms of the etiologic link between early adiposity and CVD‐risk remain unclear. Postprandial or non‐fasting dyslipidemia is characterized by elevated plasma triglycerides (TG) and intestinal‐apolipoprotein(apo)B48‐remnants following a high‐fat meal and is a known CVD‐risk factor in adults. The aim of this study was to determine (a) whether the fasting concentration of apoB48‐remnants can predict impaired non‐fasting apoB48‐lipoprotein metabolism (fat intolerance) and (b) the relationship of these biomarkers with cardiometabolic risk factors in youth with or without obesity.

Methods

We assessed fasting and non‐fasting lipids in youth without obesity (n = 22, 10 males, 12 females) and youth with obesity (n = 13, 5 males, 8 females) with a mean BMI Z‐score of 0.19 ± 0.70 and 2.25 ± 0.31 (P = .04), respectively.

Results

Fasting and non‐fasting apoB48‐remnants were elevated in youth with obesity compared to youth without obesity (apoB48: 18.04 ± 1.96 vs 8.09 ± 0.59, P < .0001, and apoB48AUC: 173.0 ± 20.86 vs 61.99 ± 3.44, P < .001). Furthermore, fasting plasma apoB48‐remnants were positively correlated with the non‐fasting response in apoB48AUC (r = 0.84, P < .0001) as well as other cardiometabolic risk factors including HOMA‐IR (r = 0.61, P < .001) and leptin (r = 0.56, P < .0001).

Conclusion

Fasting apoB48‐remnants are elevated in youth with obesity and predict apoB48 postprandial dyslipidemia. ApoB48‐remnants are associated with the extent of fat intolerance and appear to be potential biomarker of CVD‐risk in youth.
South‐South Migration: Remittances of Labour Migrants and Household Expenditures in Uzbekistan
Authors: Kakhkharov Jakhongir , Ahunov Muzaffarjon , Parpiev Ziyodullo , Wolfson Inna
Published: November 2020

We investigate the impact of international labour migrants’ remittances on household expenditures in Uzbekistan as an understudied case of South‐South migration. In doing so, we use instrumental variable regressions to address endogeneity caused by self‐selection bias. We find that remittance‐receiving households spend a significantly smaller part of their budgets on food and health. This finding contrasts with studies of South‐South remittances in Africa that find that households tend to spend most of their remittance incomes on food. Our estimations also provide evidence that remittance‐receiving households spend a larger part of their total expenditures on non‐food consumption. Remittances’ impact on healthcare expenditures is negative and on education expenditures is insignificant. These results support the view that remittances in this South‐South migration corridor are channelled mainly to consumer goods, limiting their contribution to economic development.
Deconfounding and Causal Regularisation for Stability and External Validity
Authors: Bühlmann Peter , Ćevid Domagoj
Published: November 2020

We review some recent works on removing hidden confounding and causal regularisation from a unified viewpoint. We describe how simple and user‐friendly techniques improve stability, replicability and distributional robustness in heterogeneous data. In this sense, we provide additional thoughts on the issue of concept drift, raised recently by Efron, when the data generating distribution is changing.
Influenza surveillance capacity improvements in Africa during 2011‐2017
Authors: Igboh Ledor S. , McMorrow Meredith , Tempia Stefano , Emukule Gideon O. , Talla Nzussouo Ndahwouh , McCarron Margaret , Williams Thelma , Weatherspoon Vashonia , Moen Ann , Fawzi Derrar , Njouom Richard , Nakoune Emmanuel , Dauoda Coulibaly , Kavunga‐Membo Hugo , Okeyo Mary , Heraud Jean‐Michel , Mambule Ivan Kiggundu , Sow Samba Ousmane , Tivane Almiro , Lagare Adamou , Adebayo Adedeji , Dia Ndongo , Mmbaga Vida , Maman Issaka , Lutwama Julius , Simusika Paul , Walaza Sibongile , Mangtani Punam , Nguipdop‐Djomo Patrick , Cohen Cheryl , Azziz‐Baumgartner Eduardo ,   ANISE Network Working Group
Published: November 2020

Background

Influenza surveillance helps time prevention and control interventions especially where complex seasonal patterns exist. We assessed influenza surveillance sustainability in Africa where influenza activity varies and external funds for surveillance have decreased.

Methods

We surveyed African Network for Influenza Surveillance and Epidemiology (ANISE) countries about 2011‐2017 surveillance system characteristics. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics and analyzed with univariate and multivariable analyses to quantify sustained or expanded influenza surveillance capacity in Africa.

Results

Eighteen (75%) of 24 ANISE members participated in the survey; their cumulative population of 710 751 471 represent 56% of Africa's total population. All 18 countries scored a mean 95% on WHO laboratory quality assurance panels. The number of samples collected from severe acute respiratory infection case‐patients remained consistent between 2011 and 2017 (13 823 vs 13 674 respectively) but decreased by 12% for influenza‐like illness case‐patients (16 210 vs 14 477). Nine (50%) gained capacity to lineage‐type influenza B. The number of countries reporting each week to WHO FluNet increased from 15 (83%) in 2011 to 17 (94%) in 2017.

Conclusions

Despite declines in external surveillance funding, ANISE countries gained additional laboratory testing capacity and continued influenza testing and reporting to WHO. These gains represent important achievements toward sustainable surveillance and epidemic/pandemic preparedness.
[Ca24Al28O64]4+(4e−) are directly and quickly synthesized by self‐reduction of C12H10Ca3O14 + Al2O3 without any reducing agent
Authors: Xiao Yixin , Zhang Xin , Li Rongrong
Published: November 2020

C12H10Ca3O14 + Al2O3 powders are used as precursors, and the dense [Ca24Al28O64]4+(4e−) (C12A7:e−) ceramic block with high electron density is quickly synthesized in one step under a spark plasma sintering (SPS) process with a temperature of 1000°C and a time of 5 minutes. The microstructure and composition analysis results show that the synthesized C12A7:e− is dense (99.7%), has no defects, and no impurities are introduced. The electronic structure analysis results show that the electron concentration of the sample is 2 × 1021 cm−3. This method realizes the self‐reduction of the sample through the CO gas generated during the sintering process, avoids the introduction of impurities, and dramatically simplifies the process. These results provide a potential path for the rapid fabrication of a large number of C12A7:e− with high electron concentration and provide a basis for its practical applications such as cold cathode fluorescent lamp and catalyst carrier.
Hybridized oxyfluoride photonic glasses for radiation detection
Authors: Tang Junzhou , Du Guanxin , Wen Shaofei , Lv Shichao , Lan Bijiao , Shi Zhenguo , Fang Xuequan , Zhou Shifeng
Published: November 2020

Scintillating glasses are useful for radiation detection because of the attractive advantages such as low cost, ability to be machined into complex shapes, and easy fabrication into fibers or fiber arrays. However, the scintillating efficiency is still required to be further improved. Here, we report that the fluorine hybridization may notably promote scintillating performance. The thorough studies on a wide range of glass‐forming region show that the hybridized oxyfluoride systems exhibit much bright scintillating emission which is ~4 times as high as the commercial oxide candidate. The constructed material candidates also show high‐radiation hardness and no obvious radiation‐induced degradation is observed. Furthermore, the scintillating emission intensity and dose rate follows the excellent linear relation, indicating the potential application for radiation monitoring.